another important thing is that we will need industry and tech to make up against the super-elites of the aliens and the fairly more effective mirandan forces
the boramen have their automatized fabrics probes and they are willing to put them in use to pump out automatized war machines is we ask them
<As it stands the deal is Boramen technology in exchange for a place for their remnants to settle and pursue their projects with state backing. Also update coming sometime tomorrow>
Woah, what a chapter! Such a ride… I like it a lot! It has a bit of everything; and yet, it's somehow greater than the sum of its parts.
[X] Send Moxi and Prahm's singing beacon to Mirandan space
Let's stick to the "eldritch abominations" route! It has worked so far… Besides, I've got the feeling the alliance with the Boramen could backfire rather spectacularly.
The Boramen are hated by everyone. How long until all the factions would unite against us? Either that or there would be another coup against us, by the same people we are supposed to protect.
On the other hand, unleashing an abomination that will come back later for us… We are changing our current enemy by a bigger one in a few years.
But that's the thing, we would have time to prepare. Save our people (at least for now), solidify our hold over the Republic and make Zair not only great but all that it could possibly be!
the thing is that i have my fair share regarding cosmic horror
this kind of shit needs to be understood before being harnessed or used,otherwise you are jumping blindly into a cliff
the only reason prahm and moxi didnt disembowell the commander and co is because theirhive mind link is defective
imagine a planet filled of beings like moxi and prahm but with the sole porpuse of killing the zair republic,im unwilling to touch the eldritch shit unless we have some sort of research doctrine and security measures as buffer
thats why i want the boramen as allies,they are madmen as they are idealists and geniuses
their expertice migth be key on harnessing the potential of moxi and prahm in a controlled manner instead of playing russian roulette and hope we dont get alien space marines in our door next decade
besides;im growing fond if the boramen,they are entusiasthic and clueless,they are like a grimdark version of doof from phineas and ferb
and on top of that i love how the story can evolve with the boramen,redeem them into saviors of mankind or crush everybody against all odds in the name of "utopia",besides we already gave the boramen protection and made deals with them,we are gonna get the shoe from all factions once they know that,so migth as well go deep end and squeeze as much productivity as we can from them
[x] Use Doctor Grail's influence to form an alliance between Zair and the Boramen
@Lop Which systems are connected to which (I presume via the gateways; or are there other FTL methods to worry about?)
The Mirandans can't come through Solandis. In fact, I'm kind of surprised that Solandis has just been alien'd and the Mirandans are still out for our blood.
Tentative vote, so as not to pull the irreversible eldritch option quite yet:
[x] Use Doctor Grail's influence to form an alliance between Zair and the Boramen
[X] Use Doctor Grail's influence to form an alliance between Zair and the Boramen
The command meeting goes on for hours. Troop movements, supply lines, and possible enemy advances are all discussed. Which planets can be defended and which would be easily overrun is also considered. The most pressing matter is contact with the 2nd and 5th fleet in the Solandas system. You need all the fighting vessels you can get, especially considering the Mirandans have one of the largest star forces in the settled systems. There are few good choices in retrieving Zair's two missing fleets. Any ship, even a scouting party, would be met with either a heavy Mirandan presence, or worse, upon returning to Solandas.
There's a certain unease in the air as the discussion continues. The officers present are all acutely aware of the Arghoul agents standing against the wall. The military intelligence members wear stony expressions, their hands clasped behind their backs. It's a clear sign of how much things have changed. You find yourself often thinking of Lieutenant Sette as the strategy meeting goes on. She had proven her conviction by taking a bullet, but was it the fate of all your staff to encounter tragedy in service to you? You were beginning to dread the answer. The sooner Major Clifford came back to your side, the better.
Afterwards, you hold a private meeting with Liuetneant Moxi, Prahm, the Boramen, and Admirals Vence and Quigley. You've decided to trust the latter two. Their cooperation is essential to a smooth transition, as Admiral Glenn is dead, and Commander Shetland imprisoned. You all gather around the holo pit as information streams across the screen. "I've come to a decision." You say as you survey everyone present. "In order to better prepare against the Mirandans and the threat of hostile alien forces, we will be fully allying ourselves with the Boramen remnants."
The room is silent for a beat. Lieutenant Moxi says nothing as she stares at you. Prahm seems more interested in Lieutenant Quigley, like a cat crouched before prey. Mr. Harker bows his head. "We look forward to this of course."
Doctor Grail sniffs. "Yes, a new era to be sure. For many reasons."
Admiral Quigley shares a look with Admiral Vence, then they both glance at the few Arghoul agents still present. "Well," the woman begins. "That...will have some reprecussions."
"I am aware," You say. "We will earn the ire of almost every major star nation. But it can't be helped. We desperately need to close the strength gap between ourselves and the Mirandans. Boramen technology is our best option."
Again the room falls silent. Prahm continues to stare at Quigley, finally drawing her gaze. "What," she says, her tone cautious. "Why are you staring at me."
Prham gives a slight shrug, a smile spreading on his face. "Has anyone ever told you you'd do well in a chorus?"
The admiral furrows her brow. "What on earth on you talking about..."
"Ignore him," You say. "For now I want us focused on bringing in the Boramen cells that Mr. Harker will identify for us. The other priority is shoring up our defenses in Turanda for a possible attack."
"We're staying here then." Admiral Vence says.
You nod. "I hadn't anticipated how quickly certain Zair groups would take control of the economies in this system, but according to Lieutenant Sette it's become important revenue stream. Especially in light of the sanctions that will likely be used against us by the other nations. So we stay here as long as we can, and milk what resources we can from Turanda. You all have your orders now, any questions?" Admiral Quigley, Admiral Vence, and Mr. Harker all shake their heads. "Good, you're dismissed."
You find yourself walking flanked by Lieutenants Moxi and Prahm. You're not sure why you still reference them with their military ranks. Perhaps you're trying to keep some connection alive between them and their former humanity. Whatever the reason, you still finding yourself wondering if there might be a better title for them. One that implies how instrumental they've been to you throughout your time as commander. "Well," Prahm says as he walks. "Things are getting quite lively here!"
"What was that back there," You say. You don't bother to look back at the alien, instead concentrating on the hall ahead of you. "That thing you said to Admiral Quigely."
"Ah, about the chorus? I suppose you could say I was acting on instinct. She would make a fine companion. Alice can be so cold to me somtimes."
"By companion I presume you mean alien." You say. "That cannot happen without my permission. Do not act on your own."
"Lieutenant Prahm has touched on something important though," Lieutenant Moxi says. Her voice still surprises you, considering how often she stayed silent in the past. You even glance over your shoulder at her. "I cannot say with certainty how long we can remain as we are. The nature of our existence is entwined with the worship of change, or at least it feels like it is. We were made to create, to mold, to reshape. If Lieutenant Prahm is drawn to Quigley, there may come a time when we are both unable to refrain from inviting her into our fold."
You slow, then turn on Moxi. You give the liquid woman a long, hard stare. "You have always been a treasured companion," you say. "And I promise to reward both of you greatly for your service in helping me end this war and save lives. But there is a line. I can give you much, but not everything. Some things will be off-limits, and that includes setting your sights on any of my people, and especially my high command staff. At least until the Boramen have a better understanding of what you are."
"Always of fan of our little scientist friends," Prahm says. "They love to poke and prod and talk my ear off. They're lucky I'm a patient...man."
"Hm." You say. "I'm going to check on Lieutenant Sette. Let's reconvene at a later time." the aliens both bow their heads, then take their leave. You watch Lieutenant Moxi's back as she goes. You remind yourself to consult the Boramen doctors about their findings.
You find Lieutenant Sette in the main med bay of the command center. There are many wounded present since the take over, and you find the Arghoul officer in a special room separated from the others. It's only been a couple hours since you sent Doctor Langley to attend to her, but already she's sitting upright on the medical bed. Doctor Langley is next to her as he consults a chart. Sette's room is filled with beeping machinery, most of which she's connected to. Her face is wrapped in gauze, with only a single eye visible through the bandages. It opens as you approach.
"Lieutenant Sette," You say. You try your best to keep the worry from your voice. "It is good to see you conscience. I feared the worst when I heard the news."
"She can't talk right now," Doctor Langley says. He lowers his clipboard and inspects a nearby machine. "I've pumped her full of all sorts of medications, so she's far from lucid."
You regard Lieutenant Sette a moment longer as she closes her eye again. "You work quickly doctor. Surely life-saving surgery should take longer."
"I suppose it should if you're not me," he says with a grin. "But I am more familiar with human anatomy than anyone. It is my life's work, to understand our biology. Ah, and speaking of which, I had hoped to talk to you about the probes we had developed. I believe manufacturing them in the Zair system would prove to be a great benefit to you."
"I'm sure it would, but we can talk about that later," you gesture at Lieutenant Sette. "Will she make it?"
Doctor Langley nods. "Two bullets, one to the head and one in her arm. The one in her arm was easy enough to remove, in fact the staff here had already done so by the time I arrived. The one in the head got her eye and lodged a little further behind the socket. Any deeper and she'd be dead, but luckily I was able to remove it."
You slowly exhale. Once again you feel the weariness of your position. "Good," you say. "Very good. Do your best to ensure she recovers quickly."
"Of course."
"And one more thing doctor. Have you found out anything more about Lieutenants Moxi and Prahm? What they are? What they can do?"
Doctor Langley's grin returns to his face. "Ahh, really, what can't they do? All I know for certain is they both draw on a power source that is unlike anything I have ever seen before. Their bodies are still a mystery, but I am certain if I can identify where they draw energy from, it will revolutionize life as we know it," he pauses, as if he's just remembered something. "And of course, the sick soldiers you brought from Jodem. Those cases are interesting as well."
You narrow your eyes. "How so?" you say, dreading the answer.
"Their very genetic makeup is slowly undergoing a transformation. I should like to monitor and see what they turn into."
"You will save them doctor. Just as you saved Lieutenant Sette. I have no more need for monsters, not when I have you Boramen."
Doctor Langley frowns. "Well, it would still help-"
"Doctor," You say, cutting him short. You hold his gaze with fierce eyes. "You have enjoyed quite a bit a freedom since our meeting. We have formed a partnership, but be courteous of your partners, or you may find that relationship changing. Do you understand?"
Doctor Langley's frown remains, then he sighs and nods. "Yes yes, of course. We do owe you much. I will do my best to save the sick then..."
"Good," You say. And you very much mean it.
Several days later, you find yourself traveling aboard the 3rd fleet as it makes its way back to the Zair system. You have decided to make a trip back home. Though it was what you wanted from the beginning, it may prove only temporary. The reason for your visit is the constant barrage of messages you have received from Zair high command and the government. Inquires, threats, demands, negotiations, the ruling elite were furious at your take-over of the military. They want to talk to you and hang you at the same time. But they do not have three fleets and 45 million soldiers under their command.
You do.
You stand in front of a viewport on the main deck of the ZUF Pathfinder, one of the most powerful and modern capital ships in the Zair star force. Beyond the window lies familiar planetary bodies and constellations. You have just finished traveling through the gate into your home system. It was a tense negotiations, but you eventually managed to convince the Zair governing authorities to let you through. You promised to submit to their authority, but that was a lie of course. And why shouldn't you lie? It was practically the lingua franca of the republic.
"Commander," A voice says.
You turn to see Lieutenant Sette and Prahm approaching you, as well as Major Clifford. Sette has recovered nicely, and now wears a white mask with two slits for eyes. Prahm remain as alien as ever in appearance. Major Clifford has a neutral expression, having come to terms with your new positions as head of the Zair military. Moxi was still in Turanda assisting Arghoul. It was Sette who had spoken. "Ah," you say. "Come to see the approach of our homeworld?"
Sette nods. "It's been too long, I've quite missed its green oceans."
"Yes," Major Clifford says. "Though these aren't ideal circumstances, I too have longed to see Zair."
You turn back to the window and watch as the fleet passes one of the outer planets, a large gas giant. "No doubt it will be a shit show when we land. I'll be surprised if they don't try to arrest me on the spot."
You can see Sette's reflection in the viewport. She tilts her head slightly, and though you can't see through her mask, you could almost swear she's smiling. "I wouldn't be too sure about that commander."
"Oh?"
"My agents on Zair have been quite busy since our take over. Large swathes of the population are now convinced you are a war hero, a competent officer in an incompetent bureaucracy. Though there are still many who call you a traitor and usurper, thanks to the state media."
"More and more turmoil," You say. "I hope we can manage to settle all this."
Zair appears in the viewport. The planet is small at first, just a green dot in the distant expanse of space. It grows closer and closer, revealing a massive planet covered in giant continents and small oceans. The four moons slowly hang above its clear atmosphere. They're joined by clusters of space stations and the tips of space ports protruding from the planet. The home defense fleet is also present. Their ships are lined up in a defensive position, their prows aimed at the approaching 3rd fleet. You silently hope you can avoid any conflict.
A voice crackles over the comms of the main deck. "Attention 3rd fleet, this is the home defense fleet of the Zair Republic. You are to cut your engines immediately and enter orbit in the lanes we have provided. Commander Mackerel may then descend towards the capital with no more than ten landing ships."
"They're being rather demanding," Lieutenant Sette says. She puts a hand to her chin. "I would think they'd understand the position they're in."
"It's fine," You say, gesturing at the navigation officers. "It's all a show. We'll play along."
The navigation officers begin the orbital sequence. The fleet engines flare as the ships shift into position. You continue to stare at the waiting planet beyond the viewport.
Your landing ships streak across the clear sky over the capital. You're escorted by a score of defense fighters. Below you can make out tens of thousands of skyscrapers rising up towards you like a prickly forest. In the center of the capital is a giant dome, as well as a network of plazas surrounding it. The landing ships angle towards it as the escort fighters take the lead. The closer you approach, the more details you can make out. You furrow your brow as the ships start to lower towards the plaza.
"Well," Lieutenant Prahm says. "Would you look at that."
The plazas are packed to the brim with citizens. They clamor together, their voices joining together to form a deafening roar. You can hear their cheers as the landing ships touch down. You start to grow nervous, then take a deep breath. The boarding ramp lowers. The voices of millions of people thunder around you as you walk down the ramp. Lieutenant Sette and Prahm follow, as does Major Clifford and several other officers.
"HEROOOOO!" the voices cheer. "TRUE SON OF ZAIR!" the people fight to press against the ranks of security keeping them back. You begin to feel overwhelmed as you take in a sea of faces surrounding you. "SAVE US! SAVE OUR REPUBLIC! LEAD US!!!!"
"fuck," you mutter.
You feel Lieutenant Sette's hand on your shoulder. "Have no fear commander, this is the best possible outcome."
Waiting in the center of the plaza are a group of dignitaries, military leaders, and politicians. They all wear a mix of angered and worried expressions. You slowly approach and stop in front of them. "Commander John Mackerel, reporting in from Turanda." You say, throwing a salute.
Nobody speaks for a moment as the cheers and roars of the crowd drowns out everything. The Zair premier slowly walks forward and extends his hand. You can tell he's reluctant, and simply behaving for the mob and cameras. "Welcome home commander." he says through gritted teeth.
You give him a small smile as you shake his hand. "Yes. It's good to be back."
And that concludes the part 1/ prologue of the quest. I've decided to take a break from this and run another quest for a friend for a bit, but in time we will pick back up with part 2, President Mackerel of Zair, aka the actual civ part of this civ quest. Thank you all for playing, and as always, glory to Zair, now and forever.
"HEROOOOO!" the voices cheer. "TRUE SON OF ZAIR!" the people fight to press against the ranks of security keeping them back. You begin to feel overwhelmed as you take in a sea of faces surrounding you. "SAVE US! SAVE OUR REPUBLIC! LEAD US!!!!"
"HEROOOOO!" the voices cheer. "TRUE SON OF ZAIR!" the people fight to press against the ranks of security keeping them back. You begin to feel overwhelmed as you take in a sea of faces surrounding you. "SAVE US! SAVE OUR REPUBLIC! LEAD US!!!!"
I guess that means the populace believes us about the aliens and subsequent military mismanagement (I suppose we wouldn't have exactly been subtle about letting everyone know).
Good to know that our constituents are just skipping over the little "Boramen alliance" issue.
@Lop: I'm curious as to what would've happened had we chosen the other two options, if it's not a spoiler.
No idea how we turned, almost overnight, from a no-name to
I guess that means the populace believes us about the aliens and subsequent military mismanagement (I suppose we wouldn't have exactly been subtle about letting everyone know).
Good to know that our constituents are just skipping over the little "Boramen alliance" issue.
@Lop: I'm curious as to what would've happened had we chosen the other two options, if it's not a spoiler.
There's really three parts planned for this quest not counting the prologe which we just finished. Next is part 1 aka the Civ part of the quest. Then after that there's a...pretty substantial time skip. The three choices basically boil down to whether the Zair empire grows into a fanatical military dictatorship complete with mecha child soldiers, a mad science utopia, or a biopunk empire
There's really three parts planned for this quest not counting the prologe which we just finished. Next is part 1 aka the Civ part of the quest. Then after that there's a...pretty substantial time skip. The three choices basically boil down to whether the Zair empire grows into a fanatical military dictatorship complete with mecha child soldiers, a mad science utopia, or a biopunk empire
There's really three parts planned for this quest not counting the prologe which we just finished. Next is part 1 aka the Civ part of the quest. Then after that there's a...pretty substantial time skip. The three choices basically boil down to whether the Zair empire grows into a fanatical military dictatorship complete with mecha child soldiers, a mad science utopia, or a biopunk empire
Absolutely. There were three major moments that changed the plot. Going to Khamak Station (started the Prahm and Moxi storyline, otherwise you would have had zero connection to the aliens, which would have had both pros and cons) allying with the Boramen (again pros and cons) and the coup (etc)
Well, this was a wild ride. I quite frankly have no idea what's even the genre of the quest at this point, as it felt like it was constantly shifting with each choice we made.
If I understand the choices we've made correctly ... we successfully exfiltrated from Not!Vietnam with all our troops but then decided to flee straight home instead of rescuing anyone else, by running into a bunch of aliens and ... sorta allied with them after having our subordinates transformed? But then also met a bunch of super-science space Nazis who were studying the aliens and decided they'd make for a slightly less insane partner against the Not!USA which is out for our fucking blood for some reason.
We then overthrow our military/government(?) in a coup due to them being stupid. It's not totally clear how much of it was our character having a nervous breakdown and snapping, or whether they were actually evil, but long story short we're now effectively a tinpot military dictator. And we've left the prologue.
... I am fascinated to hear how this entire circus could've otherwise gone.
Well, this was a wild ride. I quite frankly have no idea what's even the genre of the quest at this point, as it felt like it was constantly shifting with each choice we made.
If I understand the choices we've made correctly ... we successfully exfiltrated from Not!Vietnam with all our troops but then decided to flee straight home instead of rescuing anyone else, by running into a bunch of aliens and ... sorta allied with them after having our subordinates transformed? But then also met a bunch of super-science space Nazis who were studying the aliens and decided they'd make for a slightly less insane partner against the Not!USA which is out for our fucking blood for some reason.
We then overthrow our military/government(?) in a coup due to them being stupid. It's not totally clear how much of it was our character having a nervous breakdown and snapping, or whether they were actually evil, but long story short we're now effectively a tinpot military dictator. And we've left the prologue.
... I am fascinated to hear how this entire circus could've otherwise gone.
There was the <Client State Route> where the UMS would become your allies and funnel obscene amounts of money and tech so you could fight proxy wars for them, the <Fallen Route> where you join the space entity and fight for your song to be heard, the <Ronin> route where you just become a space pirate with Zair deserters, the <Warlord of Solandas> where you fight tooth and claw a new small empire in the Solandas system, and the <Loyalist> route, where you drive the losing war train down to its inevitable and sad conclusion. The choice you guys went with was a mixed <Rebellion> route. All of them had serious pros and cons, which you will see become more evident in the civ portion.
?''
