Year 1, Turn 2, Fall 2021
Lex Luthor:
[X] Study Robotics
128 (98+30 from Luthor expertise =128)
Critical Success
In the brightly lit laboratory of LexCorp's main building, surrounded by the soft hum of machinery and the glow of computer screens, Lex Luthor stood over a workbench covered in a labyrinth of wires, circuit boards, and partially disassembled robotic components. His piercing gaze was fixed on a prototype, the culmination of countless hours of research and experimentation. Tinkering with each piece, reconfiguring numerous components
For months, Lex had immersed himself in the world of robotics, driven by an insatiable curiosity and an unyielding desire to push the boundaries of technological innovation. The breakthrough he sought was on the precipice of discovery, and with a meticulous touch, he made the final adjustments to the prototype before him.
As the clock ticked away, Luthor activated the prototype. A soft whirr filled the room as the robot came to life, its metallic limbs moving with a fluidity that surpassed anything seen before. Lex's eyes gleamed with a mix of excitement and satisfaction as he witnessed the fruition of his breakthrough.
The key to Luthor's success lay in the integration of a revolutionary neural network, a self-learning artificial intelligence that mimicked the complexities of the human brain. This AI, dubbed "Cognitron," enabled the robot to not only perform pre-programmed tasks but also adapt and learn in real-time, evolving its capabilities based on experience and external stimuli. It is a far cry from true sapience, instead aping at it as it uses a growing pool of experiences in a complex neural network. Even so, the use cases for it are phenomenally varied.
[Early robotics researched – unlocked Virtual Intelligence programs, with the first being "Cognitron". (+20 bonus to next AI-related research and/or AI-adjacent research.)]
[X] Invent a 3-D printer
67 (37+30 from Luthor expertise = 67)
Success
The "LexCorp HyperForge 3 Dimensional Printer" stands as a testament to his commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology. This 3D printer is not just a tool; it's a revolution in manufacturing, capable of transforming digital designs into physical reality with unparalleled precision.
The HyperForge's exterior exudes an air of sophistication, crafted from a lightweight yet durable alloy that gives it a sleek and futuristic appearance. Its control panel, adorned with a haptic hologram interface, provides a user-friendly experience that belies the complexity of the technology within. A series of finely articulated arms, each with swappable mounts for various tools, serve to help with whatever is being fabricated.
The printer is capable of using a wide array of materials, from conventional plastics to advanced alloys and composite materials. Unlike conventional 3D printers, which build up layers sequentially, Luthor's invention utilizes a simultaneous printing approach, enabling the creation of entire objects in one step.
The printer supports a diverse range of materials, from standard plastics to advanced alloys and composites. Switching between materials during a print job is seamless, allowing for the production of complex, multi-material objects effortlessly. The HyperForge's adaptability extends to its ability to manufacture objects of varying sizes, from intricate small components to full-scale creations.
Of course, the problem emerges in that the Forge is a very bulky piece of machinery. It consumes almost an entire building unto itself, much like early computers. As such, it proves itself well out of reach of the average retail consumer, while many established manufacturing corporations prove slow to retool their production processes. LexCorp's manufacturing, however, soars ahead in return.
[Early 3D fabricators invented – capable of producing a wide assortment of goods and smoothly reconfigurable, but expensive and stationary. Currently incapable of chemical synthesis.]
[X] Study Satellite Network Systems
80 (50+30 from Luthor expertise = 80)
Major Success
Lex Luthor's dedicated research into satellite network systems has yielded a groundbreaking technology: the LexCorp NexusLink Communication Protocol. This cutting-edge advancement in data transmission and security marks a significant leap forward in global connectivity and information exchange. The usage of high-energy lasers serves to reduce latency to an astronomical degree, while solar panels incorporating recent advances in graphene and power storage serve to power the demanding nature laser-based communication systems. The fact that there are no radiowaves to intercept makes this a sharp leap forward compared to other systems.
Of course, all of this translates to the difficulties involved in actually getting this system into space. While it's possible to outsource this to other corporations with space lift capability, such as Stark Industries or SpaceX, the risk for corporate espionage grows with every set of hands that the launch package travels through.
[Satellite Network Systems research has progressed - NexusLink communication satellites available for manufacture, pending launch platform. +10 to the next space-related research project.]
Mercy Graves:
[X] Investigate into opening or acquiring a News Company for our personal use.
78 (58+20 from Mercy expertise = 78)
Success
In the shadowy corridors of corporate intrigue, Lex Luthor deploys his most trusted ally, Mercy Graves, to acquire a defunct news agency and bring it under the formidable umbrella of LexCorp. Mercy, the epitome of loyalty and efficiency, embarks on a covert mission to wield influence through information.
The target is a once-prominent news agency that has fallen into disarray, its reputation tarnished and its assets in disarray. "Universe News Network: The Only Dimension that Matters." Rocked by a number of scandals among its leadership, and with anyone not part of a particular fringe group seeing it as little more than a tabloid. Lex Luthor, recognizing the strategic advantage of controlling a media outlet, envisions it as a powerful tool to shape public opinion and further his ambitious agendas.
Mercy Graves, the indomitable right hand of Luthor, steps into the shadows to orchestrate the acquisition.
With her steely resolve and tactical brilliance, Mercy navigates the intricate world of negotiations and corporate maneuvering. Her approach is a blend of charm and calculated intimidation, a subtle dance that leaves no room for opposition. As she delves into the financial intricacies of the defunct news agency, Mercy ensures that every move aligns with Lex Luthor's grand vision.
Simultaneously, Mercy is aware of the delicate dance of public perception. With finesse, she plants the seeds of a corporate revival story, subtly hinting at a renaissance for the beleaguered news agency under the protective wing of LexCorp. This strategic narrative is designed not only to sway shareholders but also to capture the attention and curiosity of the public.
As the negotiations progress, Mercy's reputation as a corporate tactician precedes her. The rumors of her involvement reach the ears of the news agency's stakeholders, adding an air of inevitability to the impending acquisition. Mercy's calculated moves, a combination of financial acumen and persuasive finesse, leave little room for resistance.
Ultimately, the defunct news agency becomes a prized possession in Lex Luthor's expanding empire. Under Mercy Graves' meticulous guidance, it undergoes a transformation, rising from the ashes to become a powerful voice in the media landscape—one that echoes the sentiments and narratives carefully curated by LexCorp.
In this clandestine dance of power, Mercy Graves serves as the unyielding force ensuring that every move aligns with Lex Luthor's grand design. The acquisition of the news agency is not just a business transaction; it's a strategic conquest, a manifestation of Lex Luthor's influence reaching into the very fabric of public discourse.
[LexCorp has now acquired a news wing, pending renaming. The news agency has a staff of reporters, editors, and managers with experience in the field, but is marred by an atmosphere that strongly promotes slanted reporting and a history as little more than a tabloid.]
LexCorp:
[X] Engage in Philanthropic endeavors centered on Southside
68
Success
In a surprising move that raised both eyebrows and hopes in the downtrodden Southside neighborhood of Metropolis known as "Suicide Slums", LexCorp, under the direction of Lex Luthor, embarked on a philanthropic endeavor that resonated with the community's needs. The corporation announced the establishment of a series of state-of-the-art orphanages, bringing a glimmer of hope to the children of the Southside.
The LexCorp Guardian Haven initiative aimed to transform dilapidated buildings into safe havens for orphaned children, offering them not just shelter but also access to quality education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities. The once-neglected structures now gleamed with freshly painted walls and vibrant playgrounds, a stark contrast to the urban decay that had plagued Suicide Slums for years.
The orphanages, designed with a keen eye for both functionality and comfort, featured modest living quarters, modern classrooms, and recreational spaces where children could explore their talents and interests. LexCorp spared no expense in ensuring that the facilities were equipped with the latest technology and staffed by compassionate professionals dedicated to the well-being and development of the children.
Lex Luthor, in a public statement, expressed his commitment to breaking the cycle of poverty as he had, and providing a brighter future for the youth of Suicide Slums. The LexCorp Guardian Havens weren't just shelters; they were meant to be nurturing environments where children could dream beyond the challenges of their circumstances.
Community members, initially skeptical of Lex Luthor's motives, began to witness the positive impact of the Guardian Havens firsthand. Educational programs, mentorship initiatives, and vocational training opportunities were integrated into the orphanages' curriculum, empowering the children to envision a future beyond the struggles of their past.
LexCorp's involvement in Suicide Slums became a beacon of transformation, fostering a sense of community and collective responsibility. As the Guardian Havens opened their doors, the once-desolate streets of Southside saw a renewed sense of optimism, and Lex Luthor, often seen as a figure of controversy, found an unexpected place in the hearts of those who benefited from his philanthropic vision. While many of them still remain under construction and pending further funding, their impact can already be keenly felt.
[LexCorp Guardian Havens have begun to open along Southside in Metropolis, a series of orphanages that serve to foster goodwill with the residents as well as allowing for Lex to begin influencing younger generations.]
Year 1, Turn 2, Fall 2021.
For planning, please make sure to put things in the [X] format. NetTally seems to be particularly touchy about having open spaces compared to ones that are marked off. Can't begin to fathom why. Also, there wasn't a clear consensus on voting, so I picked the most common themes/selections and rolled for those that were just one vote apiece. Sorry!
Planning phase:
Lex Luthor:
[ ]
[ ]
[ ]
Mercy Graves:
[ ]
LexCorp:
[ ]
Additional items:
One Universe News name vote:
[ ] Keep the name.
[ ] New leadership, new name. (Write in your recommendations.)
