Super Robot Quest

Basarin · May 13, 2018

Defense Force Actions

[LOCKED] Information Gathering – Threats – The Research Institute is in a good spot right now. Rather than focus on internal security, which is as good as it will get for the moment, Sasaki wants to send out agents to observe the threats available. While you are far from being combat effective, Sasaki points out it's better to at least be in the know.
Duration: 1 Turn
Gain information on Significant Threats

26 June, A.D. 2070

Wallflower, Rotterdam and Rockefeller have all reported back in. The information they present to you is a mixture of both known sources from the Earth Union databases, and extra information based on what they have been able to cobble together. In effect, they have put together a dossier of all of the known threats that you face.

Rotterdam is somewhat put out by the fact that you were able to do some of her job without even needing to get involved. You tell her not to worry about it; the circumstances around how that happened are still giving you headaches.

As much as the information is already known to you...combined with first-hand data collection from your agents and some of the information cobbled together from the documents you acquired from the spies, some of it is actually quite interesting.

[Basic information acquired on significant threats. To be continued in Interlude: Threat Breakdown]

[LOCKED] Local Area Investigation - Spies? - It appears you have unwanted visitors snooping about. Thankfully Sasaki's proposals from early on in the project were designed for just this in mind. There's no sense in simply going in and trying to nab them. You and Sasaki agree - you want to observe them and see what exactly they're hoping to get out of spying on you from just beyond visual range.
Duration: 1 Turn
Progress to Security Net
Discover Information on Spies

[See Interlude: Well, that just happened...]

11 June, A.D. 2070

You still aren't very happy with how the whole incident started. But you can't argue against the results, and Sam is absolutely going stir crazy at wanting to review Callaghan's combat data. You also aren't entirely pleased with how Sasaki placed so much pressure on Callaghan so early, but it did have a productive (if unpredictable) effect.

You decide to split the difference on the whole issue.

You officially - and very mildly - admonish Sasaki for pushing Callaghan too hard, before privately telling her to just ease up slightly. She seems to have taken it fairly well.

You officially commended and reprimanded Callaghan. You commended him for handling the situation as best as he could given the unusual situation he found himself in, as well as saving the scout platoon from taking more damage. You then reprimand him by tasking him out for the next month to Sam's department.

Lesson of logistics - accomplish as many tasks as possible with as few actions as possible.

As for Wilde and Henry...there really isn't too much you can do to them. What you would normally do - ban them from the workshops - is counterproductive, since they enjoy their work, and you need their work. But you can make sure your displeasure is still felt.

For an unauthorized sortie with undeclared personnel, you ban them from actually operating the Variable Configuration prototypes. For two months.

That'll learn 'em.

Piloting Stress Tests - You now have a piloting candidate, 1LT Callaghan. Only problem: he wasn't a pilot to begin with. In line with Sam's requests for candidates of all types, a humble radar technical officer turned out to have enough psychic potential to tap into the eventual man-machine interfaces in the works by the Engineers. He can abstract piloting if given the MMI, but he's hopeless as it stands.

Sasaki is not pleased with this. If you are a pilot, you are gaining some basic fighting and technical skills.

There is no negotiating this.
Cost: 1 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 3 Turns
Test Roll Each Turn at Disadvantage (1d6, Threshold of 5-6; Inexperienced Pilot)
Reveals Pilot Candidate Traits

[See Interlude, "Well, that just happened…"]

You've already spoken your peace on it. Sasaki calmly accepts judgment and moves on, Callaghan is irritated, but understandable about it…

...and you hear cheering and laughter from the Proving Grounds as you see another of the Jackals perform some crazy stunt.

You sigh as you sign off on another order. Two out of three isn't bad, you suppose.

Field Testing - CRX-02C - Good to their word, Wilde and Henry have prepared a test prototype for Captain Sasaki's pilots. This comes at a good time, as they are practically going stir-crazy. She fully plans on letting the pilots 'test the absolute limit of the Engineers' creations.' Durability, strength, reliability, agility - everything an operator could possibly want from a configured vehicle. The Engineers, for their part, are more than happy to provide.
Cost: 2 RP
Duration: 1-2 Turns
Test Roll (2d6, Threshold of 5-6), Success Guarantees Completion This Turn
Progress to Security Net, Progress to Variable Configuration
Unlocks CR-01 Jackal
Unlocks Actions

With the impromptu data you gathered from Callaghan's Mad Charge, you have managed to determine a few things:

1. The CRX-02C (henceforth to be referred to as the CR-01 Jackal) is incredibly nimble and agile. Unlike the ungainly movement a regular Coyote would have in an urban or forested environment, the Jackal and its 'Mecha' form could navigate it no problem.

2. It can be piloted without the need for a Man Machine Interface. It would probably help, but the wider EUDF has no idea that psychic powers even exists yet. And until you're ready, you're not about to volunteer that information.

3. At best, it can stand up to the Separatists, and it's something the wider EUDF could definitely get their hands on. But it won't stop a Kaiju no matter how hard a commander wishes it so, and it probably would get laughed at by the Kausen. If they laugh, anyway.

With that all in mind, you instruct Sasaki - without Callaghan this time - to have the test pilots go absolutely nuts. You want to see if crew-served weapons could be adapted for the Jackals' use, if it can be incorporated into the configuration, it it can include anything else without weighing it down too much, and to see how far you could really push this thing before it breaks.

Though Wilde and Henry are working to help, you forbid them to actually pilot anything until their punishment is over. Them's the rules, and you're sticking to them.

They turn out to be pretty decent sports about it. You're confident you've made your point, so you at least let them get on with it without hovering over their shoulders.

The results actually surprise you.

The test pilots absolutely love the Jackal. You're not sure if this is a universal appeal thing, or if the pilots were just bored out of their minds. But within a week, as you observe the obstacle course you are seeing the more daring pilots perform configurations midair, throwing themselves into a roll mid-configuration, and even engaging in (very rudimentary) close quarters combat maneuvers. The translation from human body to mechanical body motions isn't perfect, but it's a testament to Wilde and Henry's designs that it can come as close as it does.

The Duo had some problems incorporating weapons into the design itself; they suspect until the MMI is finished that really precise hand-eye coordination and movement is going to be clunky. So they compromised and simply welded crew-served weapons and armor plated shields onto their frames instead. It's not ideal, but in incorporating the weapons into the design, they were also able to unwittingly smoothen out the configuration process as well.

By the end of the month, Sasaki relates to you, with some amusement, that the pilots wish to keep the 'Proving Grounds' open indefinitely, and not just for official testing. Apparently this is the most fun they've had in ever.

Results: Gained CR-01 Jackal (Chassis Suited for wider EUDF distribution, Minor Super Robot Chassis)
CR-01 Jackal added to Security Forces, Progress to Security Net
Progress to Variable Configuration

Engineering Actions

Variable Configuration - Refinement - Now with a very strong idea of what works, Wilde and Henry want to try a variable configuration test on something...bigger. Now that they have the basics down, it's time to upscale, and it's time to do it with fabricated parts that they hope to standardize. The Hound-class cargo truck seems like the next logical step.
Cost: 3 RP (One Time Investment)
Duration: 2 Turns
Chance for Breakthrough, Test Roll (2d6, Threshold of 5-6, Bonus applies)
Progress to Variable Configuration, Unlocks Variable Configuration Actions, Progress to Super Robot Chassis

Despite the chewing out you gave to them, the Duo continue their work on Variable Configuration, no worse for wear.

By now, they've nailed down how to configure a small scale vehicle such as the Coyote. But if everyone is perfectly honest? The bigger monsters from the separatists, definitely the kaiju and probably the Kausen are all quite larger than the Jackal. You have no doubt that the blueprint is going to start some technical revolutions in mechanical designs, but that's not your concern.

Until Sam is able to make some breakthroughs on the kaiju samples (which thankfully should start next month), you've got to upscale the designs you do have. It is with this in mind that you arranged through some old connections of yours to bring in a few Hound-class power-loader cargo trucks.

They immediately run into new challenges, and just as quickly demolish them. Already knowing what not to do, Wilde and Henry disassemble one Hound to its component pieces and immediately begin tinkering with them. They begin fitting the hand component in one space, connecting configuration servos in others, and just making sure, limb by limb, and configuration step by configuration step, that nothing will tear itself apart like the first few times they tried this.

Unlike the Jackal, Henry quickly concludes that the Hound is going to be something else entirely. He is still unsure if it they can make it its own Mecha mode. Wilde remains optimistic that they can, a viewpoint that Henry is swayed to eventually, but the thought never leaves. It's something he brings to your attention one afternoon:

In the case that they can't, he wouldn't call it a failure. In conjunction with the Jackal, or any other chassis type you can bring to them, it might actually be an opportunity. He won't know for sure until they're finished next month, though.

Result: Refinement concludes next turn
Progress to Variable Configuration
Action Discovered: Combinable Configuration

[LOCKED] Science – Biology Lab – Sam is focused on developing the basics on ESP Theory, but that doesn't mean the kaiju sample should remain neglected. Investing in the restoration of the biology labs on campus will finally allow you to put the sample in a safer area and begin unlocking its secrets. That said, this is a section of science that is yet unexplored, leaving Sam a little wary of plunging in headfirst. He claims he wants at least 'diving protective gear' before he does.
Duration: 1 Turns
Unlocks Kaiju Biotech Actions

1540,19 June, A.D. 2070
Carlson Laboratories, Kaiju Biotechnology Branch

You feel like celebrating. Sam feels like celebrating. Even Jack, finally finished reciting scripture over half a year, looks happy enough.

The Biology Department is open for business.

As you step inside, you are incongruously reminded of the project going on beneath the Engineering Bay. Where before there were lecture halls and laboratories, several of the massive rooms have all been merged into one megacomplex. Laboratory tables, beakers, microscopes, incubation chambers - they all line the walls and the aisles, all in trademark Sam Carlson Laboratory haphazard fashion.

Even the coffee pots are strategically placed already. A fact you help yourself to while you're here.

"Ain't it a beaut?" a voice calls out to you from above. Looking up from your coffee, you see Sam on an upper floor gantry next to the kaiju sample. Encased in a platinum-glass containment sphere, the kaiju scales float in cold preservation liquid, cold enough that you see wisps of frost emanating from it. His researchers are already setting up their stations, and are passing notes back and forth.

"Looks like you're ready to go," you call out. He nods enthusiastically.

"We already have some ideas on how to start making Godzilla look like a chump!" he chuckles. "Have to start with small steps, but we're not starting blind anymore either. We know it decomposes if you give it the chance, and we know it tries to adjust to whatever it was told to do before in different environments. Now that we know this, we can start trying to adjust the genetic programming."

"Good," you nod. "Give me something I can use soon."

Sam laughs heartily. "Please, who do you think you're talking to!? You'll get all the Science you could ever want, Boss."

"SCIENCE!"

Result: Kaiju Biotech Lab complete!
New Kaiju Biotech Actions Discovered and Unlocked!
SCIENCE

Dreaming of Robotic Sheep - The fact you discovered a sentient AI descended from a failed virus attempt from some shadowy figure possibly attempting world domination…

...okay, you have to stop there. Thinking about it just makes your head hurt.

You have a sentient AI from the Unification Wars who seems all too willing to just help. It's almost childlike in its eagerness to help. Ignatov and all of Novgorod Computing Solutions want to help it learn, but they also want to monitor its thought processes. Their ultimate end goal is to slowly transplant it to a more modern system, but this is obviously something they'd need to take their time on.

Naturally they're going to want more resources to make this work, but you can't help but be a little excited at the opportunities this might present.
Cost: 1 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 4 Turns
Progress to AI Supercomputer, ???

1838, 27 June, A.D. 2070
'The Lair', Engineering Bay

"It is very much like raising a child," Ignatov tells you one afternoon. He looks utterly tired, hunched over what looks to be his tenth cup of tea, but he has the appearance of someone who's accomplished a lot. "A very energetic, very inquisitive child."

"How so?" you ask.You are standing with him in the 'Lair' as you watch the Novgorod Computing Solution technicians scramble back and forth between server modules.

"It is impossible to keep the AI still for longer than a few moments," he laughs. "The AI wants to know everything, wants to improve everything, wants to talk to everyone." Getting the rest of the laughter out of the system, he says, "Having studied the code structure, combined with the fact it ran on custom software that likely did not go through quality assurance for whatever reason of secrecy, the AI should not exist." The code structure is on display on his monitor as he explains. "What has resulted is an entirely new program structure, one that we are still attempting to completely learn. It is all very possible with our current understanding of computer science. But it was thrown into being in a way that no sane individual would care to try."

"You said that it was the offshoot of an error or a failed draft," you comment. Sipping from your coffee, you ask, "Is it possible that the computers of that time just couldn't handle whatever it was?"

"Entirely possible," he grants to you. "The older computer software and hardware likely would have crashed at best, melted down at worst. But we have current generation hardware emulating yesteryear's software, so the AI will be fine."

Before you can ask another question about the previous owner of this building, the question is lost in transit as the screen abruptly shifts into a series of flashing code.

"Hello Dr. Ignatov! Hello Major Devin!"

"...um, hi," you say awkwardly. "And how have you been?"

"I am well! Mr. Vassilyev said he'd show me some cartoons later today!" Before you can get a word in, the AI adds (and you swear that the voice sounds just slightly feminine), "Mr. Vassilyev asked me to give Mr. Landon a break after I tried making Server Hub 5N better. He kept holding his hands over his head saying something about 'that's impossible' or something. But it was really easy, I don't know why he'd think that!"

You blink. Ignatov was not kidding when he said it was like a very energetic kid. "That's great to hear," you say with a smile. You don't know if the AI can see the gesture or understand it, but you offer it nonetheless. "Though...did you ever have a name? Or did you want to decide on one?"

"Hmmm…" The AI pauses to think about that for a moment. "Haven't really thought about it. Too much to do! I've still got up to 9Z to go to!" Before you can say anything again, she (and you're sticking to that) pulses the screen once before saying, "Ohhh. 2C isn't playing nice with the other 2 Series. Hey, you! Stop that right now!" The screen immediately reverts to its former state, as if nothing had happened.

You blink. Again. "...wow, you were not joking," is all you are able to say.

"It's a welcome burden," Ignatov says with a smile. "We are also closely keeping watch on all the other servers the AI has 'improved.' They are not exactly...uniform. But once she burns out some of her energy, we plan on teaching her how to properly structure code without shattering entire lives' worth of education."

You chuckle. Responding to Ignatov's quizzical look, you say, "I was just thinking of the AI as a 'she' right now. Glad to see I'm not alone." Ignatov chuckles along with you. "But, seriously...are you going to give her a name?"

"...I think I'll let her think on it some more," he says. "And while it may be safe to allow her into the 'wild,' so to speak, I am going to take a few more months. Just to be certain." He puts a hand to his chin, tapping it as he thinks on something. "In a month, I think I will introduce her to the Turing Test."

AI is incredibly energetic and child-like. Dr. Ignatov and his team are currently educating her on a variety of topics, including human interaction.

Science Actions

No Science Actions taken this turn

Science Team will gain bonus 'Well Rested' next turn. Applies only to next turn.

Basarin · May 13, 2018

1650, 27 June, A.D. 2070
Commandant's Office

The room quiets down when you and Captain Sasaki arrive. Nodding to the guards, you take your seat at the head of the table while the guards file out of the room. You do not move or take action until you hear the code lock emit a shrill whine, indicating that it is fully locked. Captain Sasaki in turn moves to activate the denial scrambler, the EUDF customary method of conducting a secret level meeting. "Ensure your devices are off," she warns, "or be prepared to replace them. Secret level meeting. Paper only." Only when she receives the okay does she activate it.

Immediately the room is blanketed by a loud nothingness. The familiar pressure on your eardrums settles in, and you shake your head to clear out the fuzzy feeling. "Alright," you say. Your voice sounds slightly distant to you, but you pay it no mind. "We're here to discuss what our agents found over the last few months. Some of this is common knowledge, some of it I'd rather not let people know about. What we talk about in this room stays in this room. Got it?"

Wilde and Henry nod, both of them already used to this. Sam and Ignatov simply shrug, both of them still a little uncomfortable with the scrambler.

"Alright." You glance at Sasaki. "Captain. Floor's yours."

"Sir." Passing around copies of the same file, she looks to the first. "As you know, Wallflower, Rotterdam and Rockefeller have been acquiring additional information on the threats that made the Super Robot project necessary in the first place. We are much closer to developing a viable Super Robot, but it does us no good if we do not know what our opposition will bring." She glances at Wilde and Henry. "I'd rather know before they attempt to bring it to our doorstep."

She clears her throat, not paying any attention to how utterly unapologetic the two look. "I will start with Wallflower's report. Though he primarily focused on the wider East Asian District, he paid specific attention to Shanghai, where Mercury V fought off a kaiju attack recently."

You glance down at the briefing paper, with still images of the black giant robot fighting off what looked like some fel parody of a dragon. "No damage was done to the city?" you ask.

"Correct. Mercury V fought off the kaiju well outside of the harbor's limits. Though it did not kill the kaiju, it forced it to retreat." Flipping to the next page, Sasaki continues, "He convinced local navy personnel to produce a sonar survey of the site from the time of the battle, an action that was mostly forgotten in the excitement of driving the kaiju off." The page shows sonar-scans of the depths - including what look to be faint claw marks. "The kaiju appears to not have swam to shore, but simply waded there. The ocean floor left a few distinct imprints, though the ocean tides swept most of it away even as the battle took place."

"It just walked to the fight?" Wilde asks. He whistles a low tune. "No wonder it was so violent. It must have been pretty cranky by the time it broke the surface."

"And probably even more so if it had to retreat," Ignatov muses.

Sam is closely studying the sonar prints. "It would've had to have gills or be able to hold its breath for a hot minute," he says. "Without being able to look at it up close, I'm guessing it wasn't much of an issue."

"No reliable time stamp records either," Henry notices. "Well, I suppose when a giant monster is about to come eat your house, you're not thinking about that."

"Before Wallflower investigated Shanghai, he also conducted studies of other past kaiju raids. Pusan. Manila. Melbourne. Singapore. Macao." Sasaki looks disappointed, however. "The other local navies did not maintain as diligent records. But all sites are consistent: the kaiju emerges from the ocean depths unannounced."

"All while evading long range detection," you mutter, "And obviously satellite imaging doesn't help."

"The outstanding issue remains the injured kaiju," Sasaki points out. "It has not reappeared, but no one has been able to track it down. All Wallflower could say is that it was reported as retreating back into the depths. Further sonar scans show nothing, as if it disappeared."

"We might want to pay close attention to the next one," Sam suggests. "If it looks completely different, probably not our scaly friend. If it looks close enough, I'm guessing there's some kind of service center Sheol's running down there."

You nod. "Not enough to go on, but it's more information than we had before. What of the Westphalians?"

"I will start with the documents Callaghan discovered." Not quite glaring at the Duo again, she flips to the next page. It is a scanned image of the documents recovered from the campsite.

"I notice the laptops did not survive," Ignatov says.

Wilde speaks next. "There were denial charges on them. The patrol platoon was about to pack them up when the damned things brewed up."

Henry adds, "We found biometric scanners on them. I'm guessing they didn't like that someone didn't match the original group enough."

"Quite." Sasaki pulls out one page in particular. "Piecing together this information is difficult enough, but this group was not local to this area. We cross referenced our information with local law enforcement, and they do not match any known local identities."

"You also uploaded them to Unity Station's database?" you ask, and she nods in affirmation.

"All of them had at least a few petty crimes on their records, including one for a failed bombing attempt of a local political rally. This was a mobile cell of some sort."

"What did the records say?" Ignatov asks.

"All records are communiques," she says. "Ones they scanned and sent through whatever encryption they preferred. We only have their messages sent, not any received. All of them addressed to the 'Red King.'" Here, she looks somewhat perturbed. "Whoever the Red King is, they knew that the EUDF was establishing a new base here near Gasparton. They suspected some sort of training facility or fortification, and were instructed to observe and, if possible, infiltrate the facility. Thanks to our forces' efforts, they did not come close to finding out."

Turning to the next page, she continues, "Rotterdam's report from Vienna is somewhat more mixed. The majority of the attacks were traditional terror attacks, all aimed at the populace, first responders, and any political figures they could reach. This was all in conjunction with the Westphalians' own Mecha, and would likely have caused a great deal of destruction if the Valiant was not on station." The next page holds an image. "But Rotterdam did find something interesting that we also found on the spies' equipment."

A crafter's mark, a stylized claw mark with a cursive "PJH" overlaid across, was on the dashboard of the Mecha's cockpit. Curiously, it appeared to have been quite vigorously scratched out. "This is a recent mark found on Westphalian equipment. However, in attacks such as this, the mark is often crossed out. Whereas in criminal cells that police authorities raid, it is not." Another photo, this one of the guntruck/tank, had a similar crossed out watermark. "The intelligence agencies that supplied that information believe there is a new singular black market provider for the Westphalians. One that at least one figure does not get along with, but purchases out of need."

"These two builds are nothing like each other," Henry notices. "You have the truck, which looks like it was built to be concealed until they had no choice. Then you have the giant monster one at Vienna, which looked like it would fall over even before Valiant finished with it."

"Sweatshops?" Wilde suggests. "Each run by some crazy ass inventor?"

"Maybe." Henry frowns at that idea. "Would explain the bad craftsmanship, but I don't exactly blame them if that's the case."

Additional images of similar frankenstein-like machines are on the next few pages. A helicopter with legs. A patrol boat with claw arms. Another giant monstrosity towering over London. "All we can be certain of the Westphalian equipment is that they come from very unlikely sources," Sasaki admits.

You think on that information for a moment before moving on. "Rockefeller's report?"

Sasaki nods. "Hers was quite interesting. She investigated the Kausen raid sites that did occur, along with where they should have, but did not."

"Power plants? Oil refineries?" Ignatov asks.

"And more," Sasaki agrees. "But many of them were simply battlegrounds for what look to be Mecha-sized combatants. No official sightings of them as of yet, but she did find something."

A blurry image of what looks to be some sort of emblem is burnt into the side of an oil refinery truck. It looks similar to the traditional five-pointed star, only with two lines criss-crossing over it to form a stylized 'X.'

"Every site where the Kausen were suspected to be fighting each other, this symbol appears in some strange innocuous place," Sasaki says. "Here, it was on a fuel truck. Another site, on the roof behind an advertising sign. It suggests that there really is an internal division, but they are both keeping away from notice."

"Not enough information then," Ignatov grumbles.

"The only other part she can confirm," Sasaki agrees, "is that every confirmed area is concentrated in the North American District. Usually along the Atlantic coast and the midwest."

You pause and think about that. "So in short: we have a better understanding of how our enemies function, but not enough to make any decisive recommendation or action." When Sasaki nods, you sigh. "It's better than where we were when we started. The Westphalians will use anything and everything they can get their hands on to hurt people. The Kaiju have some means of getting around that I suspect no one's picked up on yet. And the Kausen, only a few time zones away, are fighting each other, and one side takes the time to put down bragging rights."

You look at your staff directly. "We've made a lot of progress, people. Thanks to...vigorous action, in one month we'll be unveiling the Jackal to Brigadier Peters. In a few months, I see us embedding our people in different areas with our own equipment to find out more. In a year or less? People won't be able to talk about anything other than our Super Robot, however it appears."

"We've had some rough starts, but we've got a lot of momentum built up. Let's not stop now, even if someone tried to pull a fast one on us. The Defense Force Research Institute is here to stay, and I don't care how many people we have to beat over the head with a rock to prove that point. I'll see you all in a week; bring me some options."

NOTE: Additional information will shortly be posted on the major threats in the Lore section.
Result: New Actions Unlocked
Information on Significant Threats Obtained
Identified: 'Red King', Westphalian Officer?
Identified: 'PJH', Westphalian Distributor?

Basarin · May 14, 2018

Turn Seven

1030, 3 July, A.D. 2070
DFRI Courtyard

Really, you couldn't ask for a better day.

The sun is nice and bright, the weather isn't too horribly oppressive - the Pacific Northwest really does have some nice weather to balance out the inclement parts - and everything is in just sort of a festive mood. You're honestly just going to cut everyone loose after this meeting is over; unless they still had guard detail, everyone deserves a bit of a break. You know not everyone here is from the United States, but the Fourth of this month was something sacred in this District.

You even have some good news to share with your team for once.

"Brigadier General Peters is coming in at the end of the month," you tell everyone. You're all seated at a row of picnic tables, with everyone elbows deep in refreshments brought out by the cafeteria staff and their notes. "She heard a lot of good things about the Jackal, and some of her peers are interested." You give a pointed glance at Wilde and Henry. Both bore it (un)stoically. "So by the end of the month, I want to show her what it can do at the Proving Grounds. We might get some additional resources this way."

You look at the clock and sigh. "Let's keep this meeting brief. It's too nice a day to spend just working. I know everyone's been hard at work, so just present me your options, and we'll pick things up on Monday."

As your staff complies with your wishes, you hear the echoing reverberation of several engines in unison. You glance over the distance, and you see several Jackals already hitting the Proving Grounds at full tilt. Around them, the walls are slowly coming together, and you expect them to finish this month. Even the Biology Department is standing proud, adding to the grandeur of a facility that was written off as unviable.

Much like the idea of making a Super Robot.

You smile as you look over the resources available. Honestly, you've all come a long way in half a year. You can't wait to see what the other half has in store.

RESOURCE POINT INCOME: 8 - 1 (Dreaming of Robotic Sheep) = 7 RP Total

NOTE: Piloting Stress Test Withdrawn due to exceptional circumstances last month; no RP locked for that action

BONUS RP CHANCE: Conditions have been met! Demonstration of CR-01 Jackal to commence automatically upon conclusion of Turn Seven. Results to follow in interlude after Turn Seven Results.

Defense Force Actions

[LOCKED] Security Net - Reinforce the Walls - With all the excitement taking place last month, it was very easy for everyone to forget that the engineers were almost done reinforcing the walls. For exactly the sort of scenario that almost happened!

After apologizing to the poor engineers who were probably feeling a little neglected, you resolved to inspect their work when they were finished.
Duration: 1 Turn
Progress to Security Net, Unlocks Actions

[] Expansion - Motor Pool - Sasaki is very happy with your current capabilities. But she is not one to rest content on her laurels. As unorthodox as the Duo's designs are, the Coyote prototype plans she sees is enough to convince her of the merits of Variable Configuration.

She wants to kill two birds with one stone. She wants to requisition from Unity Station armored personnel carriers. This is both to gain even greater protection and firepower for the regular patrols, and to give Wilde and Henry something else to try configuring.

That, and she really wants to see a configuring armored personnel carrier. Is that too much to ask?
Cost: 3 RP (One Time Investment)
Duration: 2 Turns
Progress to Security Net, Progress to Variable Configuration
Unlocks new Actions

[] Landing Pad - Sasaki sees this as more of a long term idea than something for immediate consideration, but presents it to you regardless. The creation of dedicated landing facilities for vertical landing vehicles is something to consider, especially considering that the Gagarin makes a lot of trips between here and Unity Station. Creating a dedicated landing pad would perhaps enable more resources to come in.
Cost: 4 RP (One Time Investment)
Duration: 3 Turns
Progress to Security Net, Unlocks Aviation Actions

Fact Hunt - Your agents are ready to be dispatched again if you set aside the resources for them. Sasaki brings up the fact that this time, with your agents having a better grasp of what you expect them to do, they can be sent on specific missions. She has presented some options for you.

[] Wallflower - Mercury V - The Yukimura Institute has the prestige of deploying the world's first Super Robot, and have been actively engaged with fighting the kaiju for almost a year now. The Super Robot's effectiveness is curtailed by a few factors: it runs on a (admittedly generous) civilian budget, it is somewhat slow to respond to hotspots, and it can only be in one place at a time. Wallflower knows additional EUDF observers would likely not be admitted, but he thinks he can dig up plenty of useful information...if he stayed out there for a few months.

He would offer to find out additional information on the Kaiju, but as last month's report shows, the kaiju sample in Carlson Laboratories is honestly the best source of clues you have right now.
Cost: 1 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 4 Turns
Gain information on Mercury V and the Yukimura Institute

[] Rotterdam - Valiant - Mander Security Solutions is run by an eccentric madman. That said, said madman had a fantastic idea that paid off handsomely, and the Valiant is now a widely recognized feature of the European District's defense. Unlike Dr. Yukimura's lot, Charles Mander is much more approachable, if eccentric (he would have to be; he's running a security business). Rotterdam thinks she can approach him as an 'anonymous EUDF official' or as a businesswoman, on top of conducting her own investigations on the side.
Cost: 1 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 4 Turns
Gain information on Valiant and Mander Security Solutions
Mutually exclusive with "The King and the Merchant"

[] Rotterdam - "The King and the Merchants" - Two pseudonyms have appeared: The Red King and PJH. Rotterdam freely admits that finding additional information on them out in the wilderness is a longshot. But a trip to Unity Station to cross reference known records? That's a different story. She just needs clearance and resources to do the job. While you could just send a request, the speed of bureaucracy is just going to get in the way.

On the bright side, this is going to be a much quicker project.
Cost: 1 RP (One Time Investment)
Duration: 4 Turns
Gain information on the Red King, PJH
Mutually exclusive with "The King and the Merchant"

[] The Kausen - Internal Divisions? - Rockefeller's project is going to take more time, and more resources, and she knows it. The only edge you have over everyone else in the EUDF is knowing the symbol one side possibly pledge loyalty to. But it is a project she is actually quite passionate about. If the Kausen really are facing internal divisions, and if the battlegrounds were not that far from where the Institute is located, then it was in everyone's interests to find the opposition fighting the piratical side of things. Or, at the very least, determine now if both sides were just equally hostile to humanity.

That, and if they really are living giant robots, how the hell do they stay so hidden!?
Cost: 3 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 3 Turns
Gain information on the Kausen, ???

Engineering Actions

[LOCKED] Variable Configuration - Refinement - Henry may be on to something. He and Wilde disagree on whether they are blessed with too much spare space in the Hound-class truck or not, even as work continues. Wilde insists the Hound can stand on its own as a Configurable Mecha. Henry argues that it can only serve as a support platform and as an armor extension module for something like the Jackal.

They split the difference and are attempting both. The goal is to have it ready alongside the Jackal.
Duration: 1 Turns
Chance for Bonus Breakthrough at Disadvantage (1d6, Threshold of 5-6; chance for bonus progress to Combinable Configuration)
Progress to Variable Configuration, Unlocks Combinable Configuration Actions, Progress to Super Robot Chassis

[LOCKED] Dreaming of Robotic Sheep - Were he anyone else, you would think that Dr. Ignatov was overwhelmed by the manic energy of the AI. Paradoxically, he is both exhausted and energized. The AI is rapidly absorbing all the information and education the doctor's team is providing her, and by all appearances she appears to be mellowing out...slightly.

You have already penciled in a time to come in and observe at Dr. Igantov's request.
Cost: 1 RP Locked (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 3 Turns
Progress to AI Supercomputer, ???

FREE CHOICE (NARRATIVE) - An Educational Experience - Apparently Vassilyev was not kidding when he wanted to introduce certain animated shows to the AI. Ignatov, amazingly enough, is just rolling with it. As apparently something of a joke, Ignatov forwarded you a hard drive full of older shows from the late twentieth to early twenty-first centuries, all under - ironically - the Super Robot genre, something that's fallen out of favor in the latter half of the century.

Here is the portion that is NOT a joke - the team apparently really is hotly debating which one to show the AI over the course of the month, and Ignatov himself is somewhat biased (and has recused himself from the vote). Really, he wants you to choose something just so they can get on with it and move on.

You're just happy you were given a set of shows that you didn't have to pay for. But if you had to choose from the list that Ignatov forwarded you, it would be…

[] A remaster of one of the very first shows of the genre. A young man takes up his grandfather's robot to fight against an evil overlord. Even when broken and battered, even when his life is flashing before his eyes, he continues to fight in defense of his home with the power of the heavens and hells.
[] A show that was apparently a reaction to a trend of grim and dour shows. An alien relic of great power saves the life of an explorer it found worthy. Empowering a manmade giant robot with the human emotions of willpower and bravery, he wanders the galaxy righting wrongs and fighting injustice where he finds them.
[] A show that, amusingly, predicted Wilde and Henry's project sixty years prior. Three young women are swept up into a wider conflict when three sentient robots crash land onto Earth. Together with the shape shifting robots, who are enforcers of galactic law, they combine their efforts against galactic criminals preying on Earth. In their struggle, they learn to rely on each other as teammates and family.

[] ESP Theory - It's All In The Mind - Sam's done it. He's got the ideas for a man-machine interface ready to go. But the devil is in the details, he always is. It's one thing to have the math that you think will be good for the Engineers, but it's another if the Engineers realize your math leads to something horrible, like something exploding, or old television reruns.

Wilde, Henry and Ignatov are ready to try tackling this, with Sam in an advisory role. But none of them want to rush this. This will be months in the making.
Cost: 2 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 3 Turns
Test Roll (2d6, Threshold of 5-6); Chance to Reduce Duration
Enables Man Machine Interface, readies for Field Test Actions

[] Robo-Jocks - So Brigadier General Peters is coming to visit again...this time with some guests in tow. Another demonstration, this time with a working prototype, is going to happen, no question. But the configuration of the Hound is unlikely to be complete before the demonstration. By Sasaki's estimates, they will be able to see just enough to show that it's in the works, but not a fully functioning prototype.

Wilde and Henry have decided to accept the challenge. That and they really, really still want a cage fight. Something the test pilot corps seem to be unusually enthusiastic about.

If you are willing to set aside the resources, against her better judgment Sasaki is willing to bless off on it.
Cost: 2 RP (One Time Investment)
Duration: 1 Turn
Increases Bonus Breakthrough Threshold of "Refinement" to 2d6, Threshold Remains
Bonus Chance for Additional RP at Disadvantage (1d6, Threshold of 5-6)
Progress to Variable Configuration
Progress to Combinable Configuration

Science Actions

NOTE: Lowers threshold of One Science Action success to 3-6. Must be used this turn! Any additional Science Actions taken beyond applied bonus must meet regular 5-6 threshold.

[] Kaiju Biotech - So it IS supposed to do that – Sam's discovered that the kaiju sample is adaptive. In the wider scheme of things, that's bad news for the EUDF. What's good is that you are discovering this in a controlled environment. Sam wants to conduct a longer case study on the tissue samples now knowing this is happening. And now that the lab is running, and you've kept the thing under observation long enough, Sam and his team are ready for some science.
Cost: 1 RP (1 RP Investment locked next turn)
Duration: 2 Turns
Kaiju Biotech Theory
Chance for Breakthrough: Test Roll (2d6, Threshold of 5-6)
Progress to Kaiju Biotech Theory, Unlocks Actions

[] Kaiju Biotech - I'm Meeeeeeeltiiiiiing - Okay, not really. But Sam is curious as to the actual process of the kaiju sample's forced decomposition. You have enough of the sample that he wants to study down to the molecular level what and HOW it's doing this. You'll be left with less of a sample, but you'll discover in greater detail much more quickly how the genetic programming operates.
Cost: 1 RP (One Time Investment)
Duration: 1 Turn
Progress to Kaiju Biotech Theory, Unlocks Actions

[] ESP - Pushing Limts - Your discoveries with ESP has mostly been to do with interfacing with machines via unique psychic signals. You now have the basics of this fairly well established. Now it's time to push it further. What kind of stress tolerances can varying skill levels take? How quickly can individuals operate at higher skill ceilings? And for how long?

All answers Sam looks to answer over the course of a few months. The answers will likely make the ability of minor psychic abilities much more widespread among your staff.
Cost: 2 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 4 Turns
Chance for Breakthrough (2d6, Threshold of 5-6)
Progress to Advanced ESP Theory, Unlocks Actions

[] ESP - Harder, Better, Faster, Smarter - "Sam here. Here's another question me and the boys have been thinking about. Psychic powers are pretty cool. Just by themselves, they let us do things no one else has been able to, and probably won't be able to naturally for a few more centuries at least.

But does psychic powers do anything else for you? Could someone theoretically become tougher or stronger or stronger-tougher (or tougher-stronger, depending on your preferences)? No clue. But we'd like to find out."
Cost: 2 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 4 Turns
Chance for Breakthrough (2d6, Threshold of 5-6)
Progress to Advanced ESP Theory, Unlocks Actions

[] A Helping Hand - Man Machine Interface - While Sam cautions against rushing anything, he is also aware that you don't have all of time to wait for results. He's willing to devote more time and energy just to make sure the Man Machine Interface development with the Engineers goes well. Setting aside a team dedicated to troubleshooting any issues along with Sam would help to smooth things over.
Cost: 1 RP (One Time Cost)
Duration: 1 Turn
Reduces Threshold of ESP Theory - It's All In The Mind to 4-6

HeavyBane · May 15, 2018

Okay then, here's my first test omake:

You happened to be doing a round around the base when you heard something strange coming from Engineering. Well, better said you heard… Not much. It was quieter than the usual, which was suspicious. With a sigh, you step into their lair and brace yourself, expecting the worst.
What you didn't expect was a catchy, vaguely familiar tune.

Walking closer, you confirm that indeed, Wilde and Henry were watching tv. In fact, they took an old-style movie projector from somewhere and used it for said purpose. Each one also had paper bags full of popcorn that they devoured viciously, as well as drinks surrounding them. So focused were they on their "work", that they didn't notice your presence until you were practically breathing down their necks.

"Having fun?" Your innocent question jolts the two dolts upright. They quickly salute you and try to hide the screen from your view with little success, to their dismay.

"Oh, sorry, sir! We were… I-I mean, we were watching documentaries to get inspiration for our project!" Wilde spoke with a slight stammer due the nervousness.

"By watching cartoons?" You raise an eyebrow at his answer.

"Well… Yes. It's actually better than it sounds. We've been skimming through those shows featuring… Transforming robots, in case one or two had something useful." Henry speaks this time.

"And? Did you actually get something?" You ask, keeping a straight face.

"Well, some things… Watch for yourself." Wilde turns on the projector again, showing you a video of a decades-old cartoon with transforming robots, although moving in slow motion to let the viewer watch the process in detail, more or less.

You don't have to watch for long to deduce what they were trying to do.

"You want to use multiple Variable Configuration vehicles to form a giant robot. Is that so?" You inquire with a raised eyebrow.

"Well, yes. It was one of our ideas. Henry here insists that the Hound-class truck can only work as a support platform, but I didn't agree. At the end, before arguing futher, we decided to search for more information about the topic. This is… The closest thing we found." Wilde explains with a somewhat ashamed tone.

Usually, you would admonish your personnel for wasting time like this, but after having seen these two work, you weren't completely sure if they couldn't pull out something like that. Therefore, you decided to be softer, for now.

"Okay then, I'll trust you, this time. Just remember that we're in a deadline, alright?"

"Of course, boss!" The two speak in unison.

You say your goodbye and continue your patrol, this time walking towards the laboratory. You were betting that somehow Carter would do something equally, if not even more ridiculous in comparison, all in the name of science, of course.

"SCIENCE!"

Wait, how did they hear you? Actually, you didn't even say anything outloud to begin with!

Could they hear your thoughts now, or did their progress in ESP theory advance that much?

There was only one way to be sure.

Basarin · May 15, 2018

Life at work is currently crazier than it has any right to be. I wasn't really able to type out the Science part of the update, but I promise an interlude with all that in mind.

Don't worry though. Sometime tomorrow, Sam Carlson will explain how things turned out.

Defense Force Actions

No Defense Force Action taken this turn. May reduce the Duration of One Action by 1 Turn. May be applied on Turn 8.

][LOCKED] Security Net - Reinforce the Walls - With all the excitement taking place last month, it was very easy for everyone to forget that the engineers were almost done reinforcing the walls. For exactly the sort of scenario that almost happened!

After apologizing to the poor engineers who were probably feeling a little neglected, you resolved to inspect their work when they were finished.
Duration: 1 Turn
Progress to Security Net, Unlocks Actions

25 July, A.D. 2070

You at least admit you completely overlooked the sappers' efforts in reinforcing the walls, what with your attention focused on the excitement over the previous month. As it stands, you take the opportunity one afternoon to be visibly seen walking along the new ramparts of the Institute.

You are legitimately impressed. They'd gone completely all out.

Combined with the aesthetics of an Old World university campus (restored with some modern but functional architecture), the immediate image that you can compare it to is some of the nicer EUDF bases closer to Unity Station. Wrought-iron gates with manned checkposts. Barbed wire along the top of concrete walls. Decorative features that, on closer inspection, are actually emplaced fighting positions for security to take cover in.

There are even wide areas of walled off open space. All in anticipation of future building projects. You could easily fit a landing pad, a bigger and expanded motor pool, or...whatever you can think of, really.

You definitely owe the sappers an apology.

Results: Significant Progress to Security Net!
Gain Bonus: The Next Building Action will be reduced by 1!
New Actions Unlocked

Engineering Actions

[LOCKED] Variable Configuration - Refinement - Henry may be on to something. He and Wilde disagree on whether they are blessed with too much spare space in the Hound-class truck or not, even as work continues. Wilde insists the Hound can stand on its own as a Configurable Mecha. Henry argues that it can only serve as a support platform and as an armor extension module for something like the Jackal.

They split the difference and are attempting both. The goal is to have it ready alongside the Jackal.
Duration: 1 Turns
Chance for Bonus Breakthrough at Disadvantage (1d6, Threshold of 5-6; chance for bonus progress to Combinable Configuration)
Progress to Variable Configuration, Unlocks Combinable Configuration Actions, Progress to Super Robot Chassis

1153, 9 July, A.D. 2070
Motor Pool

"So, uh, good news," Wilde says as he rubs the back of his head. "We're definitely on our way to making the Hound configure into a Mecha form."

"The bad news," Henry continues, arms crossed and looking as stoic as ever, "is that you were right about not being ready for this month's demonstration."

Behind them, various Hounds are in a state of disassembly. Most look as if they had torn themselves apart from strong mechanical pressure, others due to crushed components. Each failed Hound, however, tells a story of learned lessons.

The most recent of the Hounds stand tall, and look mostly intact. However, you are able to see where the Duo had chosen to focus the joint movements on, and what they did surprises you. The truck stands upright on the rear half of the truck, the sections that would normally connect to the flatbed. The armored limbs scheme are already in place, and each standing example leaves no obvious angle at the internal parts. It is how to configure the Mecha form that each model disagrees on.

"This one," Wilde says as he raps a fist against the foot, "I chose to add rocket boosters to the torso to give it some lift in configuration. Easy to fuel and maintain, and you'd have to be configuring a hundred times in an hour to run out." He points up to the torso, which looks to be sagging just slightly forward were it not for the crane cables holding it in place. "Problem is, it'll stand for a little bit before it just falls over. I overdid it with the configuration components inside the cab."

Another one stands tall, this one on its own weight. But the torso appears...off. "Where are the windows on this one?" you ask. "I'd have thought they'd be in the front."

"This one we tried to just add rotational joints to the 'waist,'" Henry explains. "We kept the rocket booster idea since it worked pretty well, then just had the torso twist 180 degrees. It...works…" He looks a little hesitant. "But the problem is that we really couldn't make the cockpit compensate for it. That, and we had no way to really armor up the rear that becomes the 'front' of the torso. Works in theory, but impractical."

"And so on, and so on," Wilde agrees. Quite a few different varieties were attempted, but none passed their strict standards. You mentally snort. Any of these would likely have had some infantry commanders interested, particularly if they could get an armored tank on demand.. But to his Engineers?

It wasn't good enough for a Super Robot.

"They're all tentatively part of the CRX-04 line," Wilde says dismissively, "But I'm not going to say it's finished. I really, really want to get this working right before we can call it good!"

You nod. "That's fair. You can show some of the examples to the general, but I'll make sure she knows it's not ready." Your eye then catches another disassembled Hound, though the upper torso so ubiquitous with the other examples just isn't present. It's as if the entire upper cab simply...unfolded. Or opened up as a socket. "What about this one?"

"My idea," Henry says. "I'm honestly not sure we can make the Hound or anything bigger configure with our current understanding of it. So this is my stopgap; make the Hound an armor component of the Jackal."

You blink. "You mentioned something like that before," you muse. "...what do you see coming out of this approach?"

"The Jackal is quick enough to make it work," Wilde admits. He looks a little disappointed his approach didn't work, but he's not letting it keep him down too much. "Our new idea? We take the Jackal, and really soup the thing up. Give it all the bells and whistles, all the toys, all the shineys. Then we give it a custom configuration." He points to the unfinished Hound. "And make it the torso unit of the Hound." He gives a small, quick laugh of glee. "Combining Robots! Two engines! And we don't even have anything from the kaiju sample yet!"

Henry nods in agreement. He has not changed his pose once since you all started talking. "Honestly, we think a lot of our problems can be eased a little with whatever Sam can get us from the kaiju sample," he agrees. "But we won't know until we actually get it. And until Sam actually starts on it, he won't know either."

You ponder this as you study the broken down husks. "...we have been neglecting that," you think. "...we'll see what he has to say next month."

Failure. Regular Progress to Variable Configuration, Progress to chassis of CRX-04A (non mission-ready) Hound Armor Unit
Combinable Configuration Actions Unlocked

[LOCKED] Dreaming of Robotic Sheep - Were he anyone else, you would think that Dr. Ignatov was overwhelmed by the manic energy of the AI. Paradoxically, he is both exhausted and energized. The AI is rapidly absorbing all the information and educs ation the doctor's team is providing her, and by all appearances she appears to be mellowing out...slightly.

You have already penciled in a time to come in and observe at Dr. Igantov's request.
Cost: 1 RP Locked (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 3 Turns
Progress to AI Supercomputer, ???

An Educational Experience - A show that was apparently a reaction to a trend of grim and dour shows. An alien relic of great power saves the life of an explorer it found worthy. Empowering a manmade giant robot with the human emotions of willpower and bravery, he wanders the galaxy righting wrongs and fighting injustice where he finds them.

'All I ever wanted was to do the right thing.'

The alien world around him bathes in flames. The charred husks of great towering buildings, backlit by the immolation of the world, cast flickering, eerie shadows along the champion's form. He stands tall and resolute, shielding the vehicles full of fleeing refugees from the demons that chase them.

'I never stood out. Never wanted to prove myself, really. Never really felt the need." The young man floating inside the bright light of the control capsule chuckles, even with the morbid scene in front of him. The scene then shifts, where he is now in an astronaut suit, boarding a rocket shuttle. 'Sounds arrogant, but it's true. I've never felt the need to stand out, to prove myself to anyone or anything. I just tried to do right by everyone.'

Another memory flashes before his eyes. The shuttle destroyed in the orbit of Mars. The strange, golden light that prevents him from dying in the deep void of space. The gold jewel that hangs from his neck, that continues to shine gently and brightly even in this darkest hour. 'I guess that's why the power chose me. I'll never know. It never talks to me.'

His perspective changes again. He is no longer the astronaut, no longer the rescued victim, no longer in the command unit. The alien world in flames returns, the buildings dwarfed by a giant monster. It roars to the heavens, even as it grasps another skyscraper and crushes it under its grip. Great, broad wings beat against the air violently, spreading the falling debris further away into a maelstrom of destruction. It gazes upon the young man standing before it, roaring a challenge as if to ask who would dare challenge its rule.

The young man is not afraid. He is not scared. He is calm. He is determined.

And his heart cries out against the injustice that surrounds this world. "I will tolerate your depredations no longer, foul beast," he says calmly.

Steam violently ventilates from the great armored gauntlets at his side as they rise to do battle.

The great turbine in his chest all but bellows in anger at the face of the violence done for violence's sake.

The crown jewel hanging from his neck, the young man's determination and unwillingness to be cowed, shines brighter than the sun, and banishes the smoke and gloom from its presence.

"No longer!" the man shouts, all veneer of calm gone. Gone was the calm young man.

In his place, rising to the challenge, was The Brave Lord Valen.

"In the name of all those you have harmed," the young man and the Brave Lord roar, "For all those you have wronged! " He raises his right arm in challenge, and for just a brief moment, the glorious gold light shines brighter than the injustice surrounding him. "In the name of all that is just and good, YOU WILL FALL!"

2019, 19 July, A.D. 2070
'The Lair'

It is a quiet Engineering Bay that watches the Season 1 finale of Brave Lord Valen (something Vassilyev insists is the only season).

Somehow, what had started as just a small fun project to introduce the AI to animated cartoons as an older form of human culture had turned into a group get together. Ignatov and his staff, Wilde and Henry taking a break from their project, Sam and a few of his researchers...even Sasaki joined in.

You can no longer bring it in you to be surprised when she proves to be quite familiar with the series.

Amazingly, the AI sat still and watched the entire thing, from start to finish. You all obviously took breaks - you all are human, and she isn't - but every time the episodes were rolled, she became quiet and watched the show in real time.

It's only after the end of season credits begin rolling that she says something.

"I know it's not real," she says. Far from the bubbly, manic voice from a month ago, the AI's voice and mannerisms have mellowed quite significantly. Though she still retains those moments all too often. "It's all fiction. But...do people really reach for something like that?"

Ignatov smiles gently. "Every person is different, child," he says quietly. You've noticed in the last month he has taken to adding that moniker when talking with the AI. You don't have the heart to tell him not to. "You have seen in the show, and with us, that everyone acts differently. Some people are shy. Some people are greedy. Some are loud, brash. And then there are people almost like the Brave Lord Valen. Like him, and the boy he chose as his pilot."

Sasaki takes the chance to speak up. "In human history, people fight each other over the most selfish reasons," she says. "Some people fight for their religion. Some fight for territory. Some fight for glory, for fame. But you also have many people who fight for their families. Their friends. Their homes. And in battle, where emotions are the strongest they ever will be in person, even the meekest person can show courage when no one thought it existed."

For what started as a children's show, you muse, Valen turned out to be quite the thought-provoking show, and showed a LOT of different people exhibiting different behaviors. "I'll just say this," you say. "Courage and fighting against injustice are good traits. They're signs that you want to make the world better than how you found it, and a better life for everyone. But you don't have to follow how the show does it." You smile a little. "Just put some thought into it, that's all."

Though the crew makes later plans to show additional shows to the AI, it's not something you make regularly. But you think this was hitting the AI at a very formative period of her development. Ignatov reports to you that now, more than ever, the AI (who is recently starting to answer to the name 'Katerina') is devoting more and more focus to improving every aspect of the limited servers she calls home.

At this rate she may very well create a supercomputer hub for you.

1 RP locked next turn. Education and cultural immersion of 'Katarina' progressing. Effects: ???

ESP Theory - It's All In The Mind - Sam's done it. He's got the ideas for a man-machine interface ready to go. But the devil is in the details, he always is. It's one thing to have the math that you think will be good for the Engineers, but it's another if the Engineers realize your math leads to something horrible, like something exploding, or old television reruns.

Wilde, Henry and Ignatov are ready to try tackling this, with Sam in an advisory role. But none of them want to rush this. This will be months in the making.
Cost: 2 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 3 Turns
Test Roll (2d6, Threshold of 5-6); Chance to Reduce Duration
Enables Man Machine Interface, readies for Field Test Actions

You have decided.

Putting the Duo, Dr. Ignatov, and Sam together in the same room for the same project is a terrifying prospect.

You really need to have them do this more often.

[See Interlude]

Robo-Jocks - So Brigadier General Peters is coming to visit again...this time with some guests in tow. Another demonstration, this time with a working prototype, is going to happen, no question. But the configuration of the Hound is unlikely to be complete before the demonstration. By Sasaki's estimates, they will be able to see just enough to show that it's in the works, but not a fully functioning prototype.

Wilde and Henry have decided to accept the challenge. That and they really, really still want a cage fight. Something the test pilot corps seem to be unusually enthusiastic about.

If you are willing to set aside the resources, against her better judgment Sasaki is willing to bless off on it.
Cost: 2 RP (One Time Investment)
Duration: 1 Turn
Increases Bonus Breakthrough Threshold of "Refinement" to 2d6, Threshold Remains
Bonus Chance for Additional RP at Disadvantage (1d6, Threshold of 5-6)
Progress to Variable Configuration
Progress to Combinable Configuration

1233, 28 July, A.D. 2070
The Proving Grounds

"When I called you to schedule a demonstration, I was not expecting…" Peters seems to be at a loss for words. This is a first for you in the brief time you've known her.

"A dirt rally?" a man behind her says. You look over her shoulder to see a tall, slim man watching the proceedings with every hint of rapt attention. "I understand you have made modifications to these Coyotes, Major?"

Oh, dear you. Peters seems to not have informed him at all about what went on.

Callaghan was going to love this.

"Absolutely, Colonel," you agree, naturally enough. Colonel Franklin Kim, you gathered from Sasaki's digging around, was a member of the First Response Corps. Though each individual local county maintained their own services, for truly big emergencies (such as a kaiju raid), the FRC could arrive on incredibly short notice with enough resources and equipment to create a 'beachhead' until local responders could arrive. "And my team was able to greatly modify the basic Coyote chassis."

Turning to the side while you allow the pilots to make some truly ridiculous turns while skidding along the track, you activate the radio. "Callaghan."

"Sir?"

"I want you and Tellison to configure and engage in CQC Drill 2."

You can practically see the grin forming on his face over the radio. "Say no more, Sir."

As you turn your attention back to the demonstration, you are just in time to see Tellison - one of Sasaki's regular test pilots - tumble head over foot in his Jackal. Colonel Kim glances at you, and then seems somewhat surprised when you remain calm. "Keep watching, Sir," you advise, "This is the best part."

He looks up only to see Tellison configure into Mecha form and attempt to launch a haymaker onto Callghan's Jackal. For his part, Callaghan was already configuring, and had incorporated the configuration process into deflecting the strike with his arms and attempted to grapple Tellison. What followed was a very quick and intense back and forth between the two Mecha as they exchanged jabs, punches, and strikes.

Callaghan eventually comes out the victor - but you would say he had something of an unfair advantage. Considering what Sam was able to prepare just in time for this demonstration and all...well. That report is staying with you for awhile.

"Introducing, Sir, the CR-01 Jackal," you say in a showman-like voice. "Designed by our Engineering team, the design is combat-tested and has been blooded." Having left your radio transmit to "ON," Callaghan and Tellison can still hear you, even as Callaghan extends his Jackal's hand to pull Tellison back up to his feet. "As you can see, it offers greatly enhanced performance over the standard Coyote frame, and is the world's first design that boasts the Variable Configuration concept in motion."

On cue, both Callaghan and Tellison break into a sprint. "It offers quick response times, greater agility, and the ability to navigate broken terrain and urban environments." As the two duck and weave through broken areas of the track - something Sasaki chewed out the earlier pilots for ruining - you conclude, "And it's only the first of its kind. Though we retain our own versions of this model for Brigadier General Peters' Super Robot Project, you won't find anything else in the EUDF inventory quite like it."

Both pilots take this opportunity in mid jump to configure back into vehicle mode, speeding off towards the maintenance bay.

"...I have...just one question, Major," Colonel Kim says calmly. When you show he has your full attention, he asks, "How soon can the First Response Corps acquire some?"

"I can help you with this, Colonel," Peters says, stepping into the process smoothly. Knowing already this is your cue to step to the background, you allow Peters to enter the stage. "I do have a deal with General Armistead that any new developments that he can make use of will go to him. That said, any of your FRC units that are attached to his forces, I will make sure first manufacturing runs arrive to them…"

You sigh inwardly. The game of politics.

At least you know for sure you will get the resources you were promised after that demonstration.

You also suppose the scheduled cage match/boxing exhibition is just gratuitous to him now too.

Typical. After all the effort the Duo had put in...

Result: Bonus objective achieved! Permanent +1 RP per turn!
New Defense Force Actions Unlocked!

Science Actions

A Helping Hand - Man Machine Interface - While Sam cautions against rushing anything, he is also aware that you don't have all of time to wait for results. He's willing to devote more time and energy just to make sure the Man Machine Interface development with the Engineers goes well. Setting aside a team dedicated to troubleshooting any issues along with Sam would help to smooth things over.
Cost: 1 RP (One Time Cost)
Duration: 1 Turn
Reduces Threshold of ESP Theory - It's All In The Mind to 4-6

[See Interlude]

ESP - Pushing Limits - Your discoveries with ESP has mostly been to do with interfacing with machines via unique psychic signals. You now have the basics of this fairly well established. Now it's time to push it further. What kind of stress tolerances can varying skill levels take? How quickly can individuals operate at higher skill ceilings? And for how long?

All answers Sam looks to answer over the course of a few months. The answers will likely make the ability of minor psychic abilities much more widespread among your staff.
Cost: 2 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 4 Turns
Progress to Advanced ESP Theory, Unlocks Actions

[See Interlude]

Sam really had his hands across a lot of projects this month. So much so (even in Engineering) that he's put together another video presentation for your perusal.

Basarin · May 16, 2018

The familiar, cheesy music and overlay appear once again, giving the viewer ample warning to brace for the booming voice of-

"Sam Carlson here!" said booming voice announces. "And I'm pleased to announce we've made groundbreaking strides in the field of Extra Sensory Perception!" A breakaway stickfigure image of a giant in a psychic-enhancer helmet is shown stomping through a city with each step. "No…no, not those kinds of groundbreaking strides. But we're getting there!"

"Now, pay attention, because we've got a pretty big break to cover!"

The overlay image of the human brain is shown again. "Just about any human brain is capable of emitting very unique radio waves." Squiggly lines are shown emanating from the brain, and not really going anywhere. "But humans are so early in this development that they're pretty useless for anything practical." The brain is then promptly swallowed by a mockup of the psychic-enhancer helmet, and the radio waves are shown as much more defined and focused. "Now, we've discovered how to channel this into something we can actually use! We've managed to isolate those radio waves, and then channel them into machines. So I thought: can you make a Man Machine Interface without damaging the brain?"

The helmet emits a 'ding!' noise before opening, unveiling a turkey plate meal. "Uh…animators, I was actually thinking the analogy of 'turning the brain into a vegetable'-oh, look just cut this and-"

*bzzzt*

"Anyway! In cooperation with the Defense Force Research Institute Engineering Department-" There is a brief cutaway image of First Lieutenant Wilde, Sergeant First Class Henry, and Dr. Boris Ignatov (with Henry having a muted look wondering 'why am I here?'), "-we decided to see what we could come up with. Gentlemen? The floor's yours."

Videos of Wilde and Henry assembling a skeletal frame greatly resembling the Jackal are shown, along with Ignatov and the Novgorod team huddling over several computer stations typing like madmen. Wilde's voice then speaks in, the camera fully cutting to him as he walks backwards to his workstation, "Thanks for having us, Sam. So we talked it over, and the idea of an MMI is pretty awesome. But we compared notes with Sam's guys, and we figured out something really quick: the human brain really, really doesn't like it if you try to simulate something not like the human body."

Video logs of a female researcher struggling with a servo arm are displayed, with several repeated instances of a research assistant simply getting punched in the face in the most unlikely of ways. "Lucy over there was struggling because she kept trying to compare the servo arm to a regular arm," Wilde continues. "You can manage, but it's not intuitive; more joints means you keep trying to compare the wrong ones to something you're familiar with. And if you're in the heat of trying to fight something, that's something you don't wanna deal with. It'll probably turn the brain to pudding after awhile." Someone from off screen hands Wilde a bowl of…pudding. "Mmm, chocolate," Wilde says with a grin. "Henry?"

The camera shifts over to Henry standing in front of the skeletal frame of a customized Jackal, arms crossed and beret ever unmoving. "So in order to help make this easier for the human brain, we simply made sure to keep as much of the human joints as possible," he explains. Behind him, the frame begins to make very basic movements. "The elbows and knees bend as they should, you have comparable turning capability along the waist, and so on. The only difference is that the movements are appropriately heavier, but the brain will just think it's because it's 'wearing' the Jackal through the MMI. Doctor?"

The camera shifts one more time to Ignatov. "Thank you, Sergeant," he says. "The human brain has been called the greatest computer ever made, if only we could decipher it. It is highly unlikely we will ever fully understand it, but we understand enough to know what is easily processed." Overlaid with the movements of the frame, certain signals and strings of code are shown to be feeding directly into the computer. "Very, very few people will be able to act upon such commands. But with our current understanding of programming knowledge, it is all we are able to manage." He pauses, then smiles. "If, that is, you do not have a psychic-enhancer helmet."

The scene then shifts to a view of Lieutenant Callaghan conducting his little tank battle months ago. "The lieutenant's method of abstracting many of the commands, we believe, is the key," Ignatov continues. "The brain should not need to account for every single action, every single line of code. Perhaps one day it may get to that point, but right now it would be overwhelming. So we have calibrated the MMI to interface with the human brain as thus."

A side by side comparison of thought to action ratios are shown between the brain and the MMI, which then feeds into the frame almost instantaneously. "The human brain understands how the human body moves. It understands how to clench a fist, how to throw a punch, how to jump into the air. The brain will simply trust the MMI to handle the rest of the minutia it does not understand how to process. The MMI, in turn, is assisted by the brain handling the direct movements and freeing processing power to handle those tiny actions the brain cannot account for. Sam?"

"Thanks, fellas. Couldn't have said it better myself." An image of Callaghan walking on a treadmill (weighed down by a mechanical harness) is shown, with the frame walking alongside him on a much larger treadmill with an almost one to one translation. "So after putting all our brainpower together – heh – we figured, let's not stress the brain too much and let that crazy devil run with what it knows!"

An image of the 'dirt rally' between Callaghan and Tellison is then shown, with the actions-per-second and thought-to-action ratios displayed on Callaghan's Jackal, versus Tellison's manual-only controls. "The human brain is incredibly adaptable, and that extends directly to ESP! It can handle a lot more thought processes than you give it credit for, and it broadcasts just as many unseen thoughts that only a direct machine link can see. As long as the experience is comparable, and as long as you have the hardware to back it up, the human brain can do just about damned near everything!"

An image of a minesweeper game hopelessly lost is then shown in the corner. "Except that. Stupid game."

"I'll end this video on this note: we do not directly put in an MMI for vehicle mode. We almost had a repeat of Jack." He pauses. "We don't want a repeat of Jack. But what you can do is the same thing as earlier; just have enough of the MMI to handle direct motions the human body can account for, and the computer'll handle the rest. Steering? Done. Clutch? Perfectly okay. Pedal? Naturally! Mental 360 degree minimap of your surroundings? Doable. Simulating horsepower with your brain? Forget about it." An image of Callaghan steering the Jackal through the Proving Grounds proves his point, showing a now quite skilled pilot pushing his machine to its limits.

"And that's not the end of it! The more models the Engineering cats can crank out, the more refined we can make the MMI. And I can't wait to see what the kaiju samples offer; those could solve a lot of problems. Won't know for sure until we start taking bits out of the freezer though-PAUL! What did I say about lunch!?"

*bzzt*

"Sam Carlson, we're done here!"

Results: Man Machine Interface Unlocked!
Man Machine Interface ready for field testing! Defense Force Action Unlocked!
ESP Theory has progressed to Advanced ESP!
ESP - Pushing Limts Ongoing! 1 RP Locked next turn!

Zaealix · May 16, 2018

Hrrm. So I find myself essentially wanting to craft what would be a follow-up to the last one...And probably what amounts to a new omake given just what's coming up in the next few updates...Well, let's get started on the follow up first!..Unfortunately this one goes somewhere before Turn 7 results, if not turn 7 itself.

"Lucy! Ready For that run!?"
"More than you might expect."
"HAH! Really, took a break from trying to learn all there is to know to actually work out some!?"
"If I'm to fulfill my ambitions? Yes, yes it was necessary."
"Oh let me guess! This is aaalll part of that 'more than you think' thing isn't it!? Alright Wizard! Pull the bunny out of your hat! I want to see this!"
"Even if it means no run?"
"YES! EVEN IF IT MEANS NO RUN!"
"Excellent."

*later*
"Ah, and here he is, Ashley, meet Jack."
"Jack? wh-HE'S FLOATING!?!"
Jack just waves down at Ashley.
"OMAIGAWD HOW ARE YOU FLOATING LIKE THAT!?!"
"How is an enigma that we're all still trying to figure out. Especially considering his condition is fustratingly resistant to anything we've devised to reverse it."
"..Oookay...So that's bad. Yeah, I think I can get that but now I'm just...HOW!? How is this, you working out- AAGH! SHOW ME YOUR SECRETS WIZARD!?!"
"It's not much further, this way!"
Ashley found herself staring slackjawed at the sights before her.
All these machines, servo arms, RC drones and cars and tanks, all of them, being controlled by what she can only assume are psychic helmets.
"This...Wait...The Helmets let humans control machines with a thought...And with those CRXs outside that I've been working on...But WHAT'S JACK!?"
"Jack, is a fellow researcher of ESP, Extra Sensory Potential. Or as a layman might put it? Psychic powers. And he, is not the only one personally developing his capabilities."
Lucy walks over to the flying drones, and puts on a nearby helmet.
"Admittedly, potential on the level that Jack exhibits is both beyond the average human's potential, and runs the risk of extremely unpleasant occurances, like a cranial detonation. Even the results you see here requires specialized equipment, and training on top of that. But given our progress so far?"
The drone activates, flying up and around in a circle before falling right into Lucy's open hand.
"This might simply be the first step to something greater, but even within the limitations we've encountered, spectacular achievements are possible. And I will stand amongst those who wield these extraordinary new powers! For humanity! And FOR SCIENCE!!!"
Ashley was shocked to the point of silence.
"So that's it...Ah, and your shoelaces are untied."
"Wha...ooof"
Ashley looked down, and fell foward into Lucy's arms, unconcious.

Basarin · May 16, 2018

0836, 1 August, A.D. 2070
Commandant's Office

"I must say I'm quite pleased, Major," Peters says over the video conference.

"How so, Ma'am?" you ask as you sip at your coffee. The conversation had only been going on for about six minutes, and she immediately wanted to get the minutia of administrative concerns out of the way. But as she chose a logistician to head this project, of course the books were going to be all above board and accounted for.

Funny how even when you're developing unimaginable weapons, basic personnel and property accountability is something you rank higher than the last great invention.

"The Jackal actually struck General Armistead speechless," she says with a smug expression. Dusting off something from her uniform, she says, "Dear old Franklin is all but pushing for mass production to begin yesterday, and George looked like he swallowed a lemon."

You chuckle a bit at that mental imagery. "Can't imagine how he'd have been blindsided," you say as you sign off on another transfer order. Yes, you ran out of Hounds. Yes, you're going to make damn sure you get more. Your friends have a bunch of old ones about to be decommissioned, and you have a much more ~~horrifying~~ dignified way for them to meet their makers. "Captain Sasaki is keeping him in the loop, after all."

"He seems to not have taken her report seriously then," Peters says. She doesn't seem too concerned. "That, and your little pitch last month hinted that there still remains a power discrepancy between the production blueprints and what you are developing." She smiles broadly. "Well played, Major Devin."

"I'm still not done, General," you say. "I've got something else lined up. I'm going to stay a bit more quiet on it though, my people are still ironing out some pretty big errors on it."

"By all means," she says, dismissing any urgency with an idle wave of her hand. "That, and do keep an eye on your assets." She gives you a meaningful look. "It would be just dreadful if something were to break into the wild."

You choose to grimace as the video connection cuts out. She might not know everything, but Peters clearly has her own sources of information. As was appropriate, really; a commander couldn't be everywhere at once, so it was good to always have a second opinion.

It just doesn't feel so great when you're on the receiving end of that scrutiny.

RESOURCE POINT INCOME: 9 - 2 (Dreaming of Electric Sheep and ESP - Pushing Limits) = 7 RP Total

Defense Force Actions

BONUS: WELL-RESTED - Lowers threshold of One Defense Force Action success to 3-6. Must be used this turn! Any additional Defense Force Actions taken beyond applied bonus must meet regular 5-6 threshold.

BONUS: WELL-PLANNED WALLS – You may lower the duration of One Defense Force Construction Action by 1 this turn. Applies only once.

[] Field Test – Customization and Calibration – The Jackal works. The Man Machine Interface works with it. But the Jackal, as it stands, is not Super Robot material. Not yet.

Sasaki wants to fix that. She is already envisioning the Jackal as a 'core' unit of your current Super Robot technology. Why not start on that now?
Cost: 3 RP (One Time Investment)
Duration: 2 Turns
Progress to Super Robot Chassis
Unlocks New Actions

[] Honest Johnathan's Configurable Cars – You are going to kill Wilde for coming up with that. But seeing as how the FRC was quite interested in the designs, and with Peters reaping all sorts of political capital for it, you think you could persuade her to try asking another service in the EUDF if they'd like to see a demonstration. Armor, aviation, vessels? You could make a sales pitch, gain more resources and also obtain your own new designs.

Peters is likely to only let you get away with this once – for now she wants Variable Configuration to be as exclusive as possible to heighten the value. But she also sees the value to gain additional support outside of Sasaki's patron, and is willing to shift over some support to you in the bargain.
Cost: 2 RP (One Time Investment)
Duration: 1 Turn
Chance for Bonus RP, Test Roll (2d6, Threshold of 5-6)
If Successful: +2 RP, if Failure: +1 RP

[] Expansion - Motor Pool - Sasaki is very happy with your current capabilities. But she is not one to rest content on her laurels. As unorthodox as the Duo's designs are, the Coyote prototype plans she sees is enough to convince her of the merits of Variable Configuration.

She wants to kill two birds with one stone. She wants to requisition from Unity Station armored personnel carriers. This is both to gain even greater protection and firepower for the regular patrols, and to give Wilde and Henry something else to try configuring.

That, and she really wants to see a configuring armored personnel carrier. Is that too much to ask?
Cost: 3 RP (One Time Investment)
Duration: 2 Turns
Progress to Security Net, Progress to Variable Configuration
Unlocks New Actions

[] Landing Pad – With your infrastructure much more established, Sasaki believes this is becoming a more viable and pressing option. The creation of dedicated landing facilities for vertical landing vehicles is something to consider, especially considering that the Gagarin makes a lot of trips between here and Unity Station. Creating a dedicated landing pad would perhaps enable more resources to come in.
Cost: 4 RP (One Time Investment)
Duration: 3 Turns
Progress to Security Net, Unlocks Aviation Actions, Increase of RP Income (+1/+2 per turn)

Fact Hunt - Your agents are ready to be dispatched again if you set aside the resources for them. Sasaki brings up the fact that this time, with your agents having a better grasp of what you expect them to do, they can be sent on specific missions. She has presented some options for you.

[] Wallflower - Mercury V - The Yukimura Institute has the prestige of deploying the world's first Super Robot and has been actively engaged with fighting the kaiju for almost a year now. The Super Robot's effectiveness is curtailed by a few factors: it runs on a (admittedly generous) civilian budget, it is somewhat slow to respond to hotspots, and it can only be in one place at a time. Wallflower knows additional EUDF observers would likely not be admitted, but he thinks he can dig up plenty of useful information...if he stayed out there for a few months.

Cost: 1 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 2 Turns
Gain information on Mercury V and the Yukimura Institute

[] Rotterdam - Valiant - Mander Security Solutions is run by an eccentric madman. That said, said madman had a fantastic idea that paid off handsomely, and the Valiant is now a widely recognized feature of the European District's defense. Unlike Dr. Yukimura's lot, Charles Mander is much more approachable, if eccentric (he would have to be; he's running a security business). Rotterdam thinks she can approach him as an 'anonymous EUDF official' or as a businesswoman, on top of conducting her own investigations on the side.
Cost: 1 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 4 Turns
Gain information on Valiant and Mander Security Solutions
Mutually exclusive with "The King and the Merchant"

[] Rotterdam - "The King and the Merchants" - Two pseudonyms have appeared: The Red King and PJH. Rotterdam freely admits that finding additional information on them out in the wilderness is a longshot. But a trip to Unity Station to cross reference known records? That's a different story. She just needs clearance and resources to do the job. While you could just send a request, the speed of bureaucracy is just going to get in the way.

On the bright side, this is going to be a quicker project.
Cost: 1 RP (One Time Investment)
Duration: 3 Turns
Gain information on the Red King, PJH
Mutually exclusive with "The King and the Merchant"

[] The Kausen - Internal Divisions? - Rockefeller's project is going to take more time, and more resources, and she knows it. The only edge you have over everyone else in the EUDF is knowing the symbol one side possibly pledge loyalty to. But it is a project she is actually quite passionate about. If the Kausen really are facing internal divisions, and if the battlegrounds were not that far from where the Institute is located, then it was in everyone's interests to find the opposition fighting the piratical side of things. Or, at the very least, determine now if both sides were just equally hostile to humanity.
Cost: 3 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 3 Turns
Chance for ??? at Disadvantage (1d6, Threshold of 5-6)
Gain information on the Kausen, ???

Engineering Actions

Dreaming of Robotic Sheep - Katarina
Cost: 1 RP Locked (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 2 Turns
Progress to AI Supercomputer, ???

Katarina has been developing at an incredibly rapid pace. By now, Ignatov is fairly confident that she is well grounded in terms of behavior and is willing to grant additional access to the facility to her in small doses. This is both to finally connect the entire facility into a wider beneficial network, and to begin teaching Katarina how to better interact with and help more people. She seems quite happy at the idea.

However, with all the improvements Katarina has been making to the limited server hubs she calls home, there is strange activity going on in there that even she isn't sure what to make of. Ignatov is putting any course of action that opens up the servers to the rest of the facility until he figures out what's going on.

[] Unleash the Hound – The Hound remains unfinished, a state of affairs that displeases the Duo. With your permission and enough resources to try it out, they want to take another crack at it. For now, Wilde and Duo want to go with the 'Armor Module' method.

The work is mostly done on both ends. The Jackal works already and can be modified in a month, and the Hound just needs some final touches. Once this concept is complete, we can move on to making it super.
Cost: 2 RP (One Time Investment)
Duration: 1 Turn
Chance for Bonus Breakthrough (2d6, Threshold of 5-6)
Progress to Super Robot Chassis, Combinable Configuration

[] Hell on Wheels – The Jackal was an undoubtable success. The Hound is looking promising. So why not try expanding our horizons? Wilde and Henry have plenty to do as it is, but with the resources available from the motor pool, they think they can have a basic configurable prototype of a new vehicle ready to go in a month. Nothing combinable though, they'll need a little bit more for that.
Cost: 2 RP (One Time Investment)
Duration: 1 Turn
Development of new Configurable Vehicle (Write-In)

[] What is Dakka? And Why Don't We Have Enough? – Strange references from Ignatov aside, the Engineers bring up a good point. Your Mecha are still using weapons meant for infantry engagements. Henry is confident that the Jackal and the Hound (when it's finished) could handle the strain of better firepower, but so far you've been modifying existing weapons to a frame that was never meant for them. You have nothing against using existing ammunition – the logistician within you sings at the streamlining – but taking advantage of the Jackal's unique traits is a must.
Cost: 2 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 3 Turns
Unlocks Mecha-Scale Weapons, Progress in Mecha-Scale Weapons

Science Actions

LOCKED - ESP - Pushing Limits - Your discoveries with ESP has mostly been to do with interfacing with machines via unique psychic signals. You now have the basics of this fairly well established. Now it's time to push it further. What kind of stress tolerances can varying skill levels take? How quickly can individuals operate at higher skill ceilings? And for how long?

All answers Sam looks to answer over the course of a few months. The answers will likely make the ability of minor psychic abilities much more widespread among your staff.
Cost: 1 RP LOCKED (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 3 Turns
Progress to Advanced ESP Theory, Unlocks Actions

[] ESP - Harder, Better, Faster, Smarter - "Sam here. Here's another question me and the boys have been thinking about. Psychic powers are pretty cool. Just by themselves, they let us do things no one else has been able to, and probably won't be able to naturally for a few more centuries at least.

"But does psychic powers do anything else for you? Could someone theoretically become tougher or stronger or stronger-tougher (or tougher-stronger, depending on your preferences)? No clue. But we'd like to find out."
Cost: 2 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 4 Turns
Chance for Breakthrough (2d6, Threshold of 5-6)
Progress to Advanced ESP Theory, Unlocks Actions

[] Kaiju Biotech - Okay, what is this, I don't even- – Sam is now somewhat concerned. The Kaiju sample is still inert, if somewhat altering its composition to adjust for the cold temperatures. But it's also now starting to contribute to the freezing temperatures. This is adding credence to his idea that the genetic programming is adaptable, but he never expected it to actually start mutating like this. And it's still technically dormant. Thankfully, the changes aren't so dramatic to be unrecognizable from the original sample, but it still happened.

Sam really doesn't know what's going on. Yet.
Cost: 1 RP (1 RP Investment locked next turn)
Duration: 2 Turns
Kaiju Biotech Theory
Chance for Turn Reduction: Test Roll (2d6, Threshold of 5-6)
Progress to Kaiju Biotech Theory, Discover ???, Unlocks Actions

[] Kaiju Biotech – I am INVINCIBLE – Well, no, not really. But the kaiju are without a doubt incredibly hard to kill. With Wallflower's input and studies, he wants to study the composition of the scale (frozen and all), catalogue its properties, and then compare them to recorded instances of kaiju attacks. He might not be able to develop kaiju scale from it, but he might be able to come up with something to help the Super Robot.
Cost: 1 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 2 Turns
Progress to Kaiju Biotech Theory, Discover ???, Unlocks New Actions

[] Kaiju Biotech and You – The lab is up, but it hasn't seen too much use yet. Aside from passive observation, there really hasn't been much call for it. Sam, however, has a resource-light project in mind. Similar to another project he proposed, he wants to take a piece of the kaiju scale – still frozen – and then subject it to SCIENCE. If he can see how even the dormant kaiju sample reacts, he is sure he can glean some insight that will leapfrog your understanding of kaiju biology.

Cost: 1 RP (One Time Investment)
Duration: 1 Turn
Progress to Kaiju Biotech Theory, Discover ???, Unlocks Actions

Basarin · May 17, 2018

Aerial Defense Forces it is then!

Now, as you consider this, your likeliest customer is, ironically enough, General George Armistead. Also known as your biggest critic.

The irony is not lost on him.

That being said, it's one of his subordinates that is coming out to view it in his name. He's still snubbing you, but he is unable to completely ignore you either.

Please give the following:

Vehicle Name:
Vehicle Type/Role: (Fighter, Bomber, Reconnaissance, etc.)
Proposed Configuration: (Describe what you want to do, the capabilities you project for it, and why the EUADF needs it)
Additional Functions: (You get to keep this design and a stockpile of some vehicles after the fact, so any additional functions to help the Super Robot? Put it here!)

@Forgothrax ninja'd me, it looks like, but he's got the basic idea. Sounds like everyone is of a likemind, though, so just hash it out. Surprise me.

Zaealix · May 17, 2018

Alright alright lemme see what I can write up!...I don't know my military slang&Lingo so apologies if I garble things.

"Captain Zora Heyonja? Where's Armistead."
"I am not at liberty to discuss the general's location. Suffice it to say, the good general should just man up and accept the fact that he knew the bogey was on his six and didn't even try to shake it!"
The blond woman on screen shook her head contemptously as she spoke her last words.
"But business before pleasure. First off, the request. Apparently the General's been gathering lots of helo pilots from the civilian sector who want to 'make their mark' or something. So with that in mind, we're going to be providing you a supply of 360-HCs as the base model. It's normally a transportation helicopter, and it's not bad, but it's still a slow helicopter. And that's where you come in. Your end of things is to find a way for that, to configure into a high-speed transport of some kind, so we can have something that can land on a pad, helicopter style, and actually be fast enough to fly away from another Kaiju. Is this acceptable?"
"It should be. I take it that will be all?"
"Ah, two more topics I'd like to discuss. Major Devin, that loggie that got 5000 people evacuated from the Starfall Day attack a few years back-that was you right?"
"Logistican, Heyonja." corrects Peters.
"Right right, point is, you do nice work. Just because Armistead's being huffy doesn't mean there aren't eyes in the sky that appreciate what you've done. Even if Sassaki's probably trying to convince you otherwise."
"Captain, will that be all?" says Peters in an icy tone.
"Just one last thing: If you can make whatever it is faster than a 55-Teradactyl? That'd be great. I'm sick of flying those relics! Heyonja out!"
Peters groans.
"He knows I don't care for that woman and her irrelevance..."

Super Robot Quest

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