ConfusedPotato
Unverified Verifier
- Location
- Australia
[X] Plan: Abominations of Science
- Location
- Nowhere
To be fair we already have a real robot of sorts with the Jackal. What we need right now though is firepower.
It's a start until we can recruit some crazy gun-nut. Speaking of: Researching Conventional Weapons won't be useful for us, but it will give something for our allies, which might increase our reputation and possibly get more RP later on.
That's not true, luckily we have time before the bad guys show up. I hope.
I wouldn't consider Variable Tech mundane. Also, these two guys are eventually going to be able to make transforming missile destroyers.
Understandable, but before that we ought to finish the Hound first.
Eh, it's not like it will explode if we research it too much.
Again, the only way this could happen is by rolling very, very badly for the Kaiju Farm thing, which won't happen unless we're very unlucky. Even then, we would learn something useful from such spectacular failure. The QM stated that at the start of the game.
- Location
- USA
So as it turns out, you only have one roll this turn, though it's an important one: Dreaming of Electric Sheep.
So let's see if the dice gods favor you.
Update to follow today. This should be fun to see develop.
So let's see if the dice gods favor you.
Test Roll at Disadvantage (1d6 (+1d6, Katarina's Support), Threshold of 5-6)
(Chance to develop basic personalities, will not develop traits to start, ???)
Success!
Rampant code structures stabilized into Basic AI Personalities
New AI Supercomputer Actions Unlocked!
(Chance to develop basic personalities, will not develop traits to start, ???)
Success!
Rampant code structures stabilized into Basic AI Personalities
New AI Supercomputer Actions Unlocked!
Update to follow today. This should be fun to see develop.
Thors_Alumni
Proud member of Thors Class VII from Liberl
- Location
- Liberl Zemuria.
All Hair our new AI overlords.So as it turns out, you only have one roll this turn, though it's an important one: Dreaming of Electric Sheep.
So let's see if the dice gods favor you.
Test Roll at Disadvantage (1d6 (+1d6, Katarina's Support), Threshold of 5-6)
(Chance to develop basic personalities, will not develop traits to start, ???)
Success!
Rampant code structures stabilized into Basic AI Personalities
New AI Supercomputer Actions Unlocked!
Update to follow today. This should be fun to see develop.
- Location
- USA
All Hair our new AI overlords.
Are...are the AI conquering a hair salon franchise?
meganeshounen
*tips glasses*
- Location
- Far East Asia
Welllllllllllllll....Are...are the AI conquering a hair salon franchise?
You can't spell "hair" without "AI", right?
re: Katarina's "little sisters"
Since they'll also be in the care of Ignatov and his crew, I suppose the new AI would also have Russian names?
Turn Nine: Results
- Location
- USA
Turn Nine Results
Free Action
Proving Grounds
Audio Log for Record, #1
Henry: I will admit this is the first time I've been accused as being crazier than the LT. But there is a method to the madness. The V-33 TMU has one unique advantage: modularity. We deliberately designed the thing to be able to mix and match parts on demand. This includes its core structural frame; we can modify it to assume any form we want to a point.
Henry: The goal is to make the TMU another piece of the arsenal to the Super Robot armory. With some modifications to the TMU and some custom modular pods, we're going to turn the TMU into an armor and weapons pack for the Jackal.
Wilde: Delivery isn't a problem. Actual connection and midair configuration is. We're using stock VMU and Jackals for this. If the standard models can do it, then any up-gunned versions we make for deployment definitely can. If we can't get the basics down here, then Combinable Configuration's just kinda dead in the water.
Wilde: So it's a good thing we have a lot of TMUs and the component spares for them. *pause* That, and a lot of corporate swag. I mean, a lot of coffee cups and posters, good God.
Henry: At least we have friends in the industry. We'll begin testing soon.
Wilde: For this test, we're using remote-control interfaces, and just some crash dummies with pressure test pads inside. We're not risking anyone for this test.
Video Log for Record, #1
"This first test is just a stationary one," Wilde says as he walks alongside the camera. "Nothing too exciting right now, we're just trying to figure out what the best way to do this is."
Henry's portrait appears in the corner. "We also determined pretty quickly that this is only going to be in rotary craft form," he says, "and not a jet form. As it stands right now, we're going to need two pilots and a lot of computing power to make this work in the middle of combat conditions. If and when we get something that lets us try something else, we'll revisit the issue."
A standard Jackal is shown standing upright on its own power, with technicians crawling along elevated platforms. Held above it, suspended by cranes, is a TMU being heavily modified. The empty space where the modules would go are being replaced with modular hardpoints, all designed to slot in with the Jackal's shoulders. The wings are also being given additional freedom of movement, apparently being designed to swing ninety-degrees to form a form of wingspan for the Jackal. The jet engine exhausts are also being granted the same treatment, allowing them to slot neatly and parallel to the mid-rear of the Jackal's torso.
"This is honestly the easy part," Wilde explains. "We just see a main problem with it. The cockpit of the TMU is now the front plate of the Jackal combination. I'm honestly gonna recommend we try to find some remote way of control for this, because that's gonna be pretty hairy for the TMU pilots."
The rotary blades, which also normally fold in, are still retracted and folded in half. They are just unable to actually fully retract with this even more compact form. "If Sam can look into getting us those kaiju materials," Henry adds, "We might actually be able to do something with the rotary blades. As crazy as it sounds, maybe a melee weapon?"
"Either way, we're going to try our first few tests soon," Wilde says. "When we figure this out, we can make it standard in all of our models. I, uh, hope you like train wrecks."
Video Log for Record, #2
The first combination performs as expected. The very first live attempt to configure midair, despite operating in very safe conditions, goes wrong quickly. Hovering gently over the Jackal, the TMU attempts to ease into the configuration…only for the components to practically crush all the components that were meant to configure.
"Yarp," Wilde says dully. "That didn't work. No need to check on the dummy I think."
"Next," Henry agrees stoically.
Video Log for Record, #3
The next attempt goes somewhat better, but only a bit. The next attempt is able to latch onto the modular points safely. But that is when the inner machinery starts configuring out of order, leading to much the same result – a crushed internal system. The mangled fuse of machinery and metal promptly collapses and falls flat on its face.
"Bit better," Wilde says cheerfully.
"Next," Henry says again.
Video Log for Record, #4
"Full disclaimer," Wilde says. He actually sounds embarrassed. "Captain Sasaki and Doc Ignatov were asking us why we weren't using laser and wire guided systems."
"I will also place on the record, Lieutenant," Sasaki interjects, "I did not sound 'smug.'"
"Keep telling yourself that, Ma'am," Wilde mutters. "Anyway, we tried this next test with that in mind. We connected wire and laser guidance systems to the modular points on both ends. Glad to say, it finally worked."
This test actually goes quite well. The TMU slowly descends onto the Jackal's shoulders, and firmly clamps down onto the modular-configuration points. From there, the TMU splits in half, with the front and cockpit points folding down onto the torso of the Jackal, while the engines and rear points fold onto the back, locking neatly into place.
Henry chimes in. "It works," he agrees, "But pilot safety is still a very big issue. I could see the Jackal being piloted without problems, but the TMU is a big issue. If Dr. Ignatov can develop a program or something that can automatically calculate the configuration process, or even fly the TMU on its own, or something like it…then we'd be in business."
As you shut off the video, you look again at Ignatov's report. "About that…"
Defense Force Actions
0730, 13 September, A.D. 2070
Landing Pad, Campus Outskirts
"Research Institute ground control, this is the dropship Yuri Gagarin, estimated time of arrival is 15 minutes. We're on approach, requesting landing guidance, over."
"Yuri Gagarin, this is Tower Control. Standby for guidance procedures. Congratulations, you're our first customer, over."
"Tower, Gagarin. Has our landing procedure changed? Over."
"Affirmative, Gagarin. You now have proper tarmac to land on. Standby…confirm reception of laser guidance, over."
"Good copy, Tower. Getting a strong signal. Are we to follow laser guidance in? Over."
"Roger, Gagarin. You get the big pad, Landing Zone #1. Follow it in, the usual crowd will take over from there. Also be advised, we have birds of our own coming to escort you in, over."
"Understood, Tower. Bringing the goods in. Gagarin out."
You watch in satisfaction as the comforting sight of the Stork-class Gagarin approaches, this time on a proper landing zone and not just a patch of dead grass and dirt. Not too far away from the enormous dropship, several of your TMUs in jetfighter mode, launched from smaller auxiliary pads, take up escort positions alongside the Gagarin in a protective formation. A fair distance away from the Campus Grounds, there are now two runways, with a gate system allowing entry to and from dedicated maintenance bays. There is also a set of three landing bays and smaller auxiliary pads for smaller vehicles, all properly paved and serviced by yellow-jacketed ground guidance staff crawling over the pad getting ready for the Gagarin's arrival.
And it was all done without extra resources.
You suspect working at the DFRI ingrains a unique sort of madness in your people. But it's a madness you're more than happy to have.
Now you know you can justify additional resources every month. You have a guaranteed way of receiving them without bottlenecks.
Strategic and Tactical Analysis, CR-01 Jackal
Video Log by Captain Sasaki, Haruko
"While we have conducted studies of the opposition we are expected to face, it currently shows that what we have is inadequate to the task. This is not a slight against the efforts of our people: even after nine months of development and breakthroughs, as Brigadier Peters stated, we are still playing a game of catchup. The only comforting notion is that the opposition and our 'competitors' are content with the means in which they employ against each other."
The overview of the Jackal is presented in the video screen. "The CR-01 Jackal is, without doubt, one of our greatest successes. It is a milestone in mechanical engineering, and it has already proven itself against Westphalian insurgents. But it can – and must – become much more than this."
Overlays of the incomplete Hound, the semi-successful TMU combination, the Man Machine Interface, and the theoretical advantages provided by the kaiju samples and the Supercomputer AI are indicated to the sides. "Right now, the Jackal is effectively a clean slate, with many possibilities open to it."
Additional ideas flow across the screen, showing multiple proposed combining configurations, weapon types, and more. "As such, we are conducting a thorough analysis, aided by our test pilot, Lieutenant Callaghan, to see what possibilities exist. But the immediate goal of this project is to modify a Jackal into something that can begin to compete with the threats we face."
The hull of the Jackal, still painted in a tan desert color interestingly enough, is slowly becoming modified on the screen along with the proposed changes. The utilitarian, camera drone-esque head module is slowly replaced by something much more resembling a humanoid face.
"I project that upon completion of this study, our efforts to accelerate our progress to a proper Super Robot will shave time on the order of months off our timetables. We will report our conclusions at the end of next month."
1900, 23 September, A.D. 2070
'The Lair,' Engineering Complex
"I think the results speak for themselves, Major," Ignatov says with a weary smile.
Even though you know you shouldn't worry about the man, the fact you're seeing him constantly in a state of exhaustion from the AI Supercomputers worries you anyway. But just this once…you think you'll let it slide.
Katarina's avatar appears in the bottom left corner of the monitor sets. "We calmed them down," Katarina says. Her 'body language' on the screen mirrors that of Ignatov's: weary triumph. "We did have to take a few extra measures, but we think we can safely integrate the wider campus into the network."
Ignatov taps a few commands, and a blueprint overlay of the Lair is shown. "We have applied a series of filters into the networks," he says. "For now, we are limiting the available space for the new AI codes."
"I'm also teaching them," Katarina says with a smile. "Nothing too specific right now. Just how to talk, how to interact with people, the basics of maintaining their own code structure – stuff like that."
It's the way she says it, but… "You're doing that…right now?" you ask. "While we're talking?"
"Well, yeah," she admits. "Right now, two code structures are coherent enough that I'm teaching them. They're not quite as advanced as I am, but that's going to change. So right now I don't have to spare too much attention to that."
You just look at Ignatov. He just serenely smiles back. "I taught her well," he says with pride.
Turning back to the blueprints, you ask, "So are there more of the code structures? Or-?"
"Just those two for now," Katarina says. "I've also looked into how we could create more, only without them running around in panic. Right now, we're restricting them to about two server hubs each. They're curious, and they're cheerful enough, but they're…kind of in a state like I was a few months ago. Honestly, I don't think they can handle anything too advanced right now, but…" She pauses to 'think.' "You could probably, I dunno, make them bodies? They'd still have plenty to do, and they could still interact with the network, but without having the strain of it all on them. Or you could also just assign them to specific areas, like the workshop or the landing pad?"
You blink at that idea. "…you might want to get with Lieutenant Wilde then," you say. Turning to Ignatov, you ask, "How soon can you get us all wired up?"
"Oh, please, Major," Ignatov laughs. "Do not worry yourself over that. You will have our proposals for that by next month's gathering."
Science Actions
1324, 22 September, A.D. 2070
Carlson Laboratories, ESP Branch
"Talk about putting your heads together," Sam notes. "Turns out we stumbled onto a new principle of ESP entirely by accident." He grins. "Best kind of scientific discovery if I'm honest."
You're too busy looking at the printouts. As usual, the equations all go over your head, but the diagrams and the video recordings speak for themselves. "People can pool their powers together?" you guess.
"Pretty much that," Sam agrees. "Check this out, John." A video recording of three other test candidates are shown operating near one machine, which turns out to be a mechanical practice frame of the Jackal. "So some people just aren't going to be able to do much on their own. You can overcome that with some practice and some good ol' Union grit, but some people are just gonna struggle."
The machine is struggling to move at all, much less do anything, and one of the test candidates is visibly struggling. The experiment is about to be written off when another limb abruptly begins moving. Researchers on another terminal in an adjacent terminal are scrambling in shock as the next candidate over is suddenly hunched over, struggling in somewhat the same way as the first candidate. Before long, the one frame is slowly beginning to move properly...operated by two people.
"Was there any side effects?" you ask.
"We don't know yet," Sam admits. "We're keeping those two under observation and bedrest for the next month. This is either a big moment, or it's a danger we're gonna have to build in failsafes against."
"...hold up," you say. You point at the video of the frame itself, isolated by its own screen. "Reverse that playback to one minute nineteen seconds."
As you watch the video play back again, you finally see what was jumping out at you: the frame is visibly struggling at the moment the two 'joined forces,' but within ten seconds, the frame has normalized. Though still producing stuttering motions, the frame is operating much more efficiently...but it's clear that the upper torso and the legs are operating in tandem from different inputs.
"...huh. I'll admit I missed that," Sam says with a puzzled look. "We were focused on studying the side effects, and seeing if they needed to be treated for anything."
"Can you get something by next month?" you ask him.
"That's the idea."
Free Action
Instead of making it part of the Hound, Henry thinks he can have the TMU plug into the Jackal instead. It would create a small set of extra armor, and vastly increase survivability and firepower.
Proving Grounds
Audio Log for Record, #1
Henry: I will admit this is the first time I've been accused as being crazier than the LT. But there is a method to the madness. The V-33 TMU has one unique advantage: modularity. We deliberately designed the thing to be able to mix and match parts on demand. This includes its core structural frame; we can modify it to assume any form we want to a point.
Henry: The goal is to make the TMU another piece of the arsenal to the Super Robot armory. With some modifications to the TMU and some custom modular pods, we're going to turn the TMU into an armor and weapons pack for the Jackal.
Wilde: Delivery isn't a problem. Actual connection and midair configuration is. We're using stock VMU and Jackals for this. If the standard models can do it, then any up-gunned versions we make for deployment definitely can. If we can't get the basics down here, then Combinable Configuration's just kinda dead in the water.
Wilde: So it's a good thing we have a lot of TMUs and the component spares for them. *pause* That, and a lot of corporate swag. I mean, a lot of coffee cups and posters, good God.
Henry: At least we have friends in the industry. We'll begin testing soon.
Wilde: For this test, we're using remote-control interfaces, and just some crash dummies with pressure test pads inside. We're not risking anyone for this test.
Video Log for Record, #1
"This first test is just a stationary one," Wilde says as he walks alongside the camera. "Nothing too exciting right now, we're just trying to figure out what the best way to do this is."
Henry's portrait appears in the corner. "We also determined pretty quickly that this is only going to be in rotary craft form," he says, "and not a jet form. As it stands right now, we're going to need two pilots and a lot of computing power to make this work in the middle of combat conditions. If and when we get something that lets us try something else, we'll revisit the issue."
A standard Jackal is shown standing upright on its own power, with technicians crawling along elevated platforms. Held above it, suspended by cranes, is a TMU being heavily modified. The empty space where the modules would go are being replaced with modular hardpoints, all designed to slot in with the Jackal's shoulders. The wings are also being given additional freedom of movement, apparently being designed to swing ninety-degrees to form a form of wingspan for the Jackal. The jet engine exhausts are also being granted the same treatment, allowing them to slot neatly and parallel to the mid-rear of the Jackal's torso.
"This is honestly the easy part," Wilde explains. "We just see a main problem with it. The cockpit of the TMU is now the front plate of the Jackal combination. I'm honestly gonna recommend we try to find some remote way of control for this, because that's gonna be pretty hairy for the TMU pilots."
The rotary blades, which also normally fold in, are still retracted and folded in half. They are just unable to actually fully retract with this even more compact form. "If Sam can look into getting us those kaiju materials," Henry adds, "We might actually be able to do something with the rotary blades. As crazy as it sounds, maybe a melee weapon?"
"Either way, we're going to try our first few tests soon," Wilde says. "When we figure this out, we can make it standard in all of our models. I, uh, hope you like train wrecks."
Video Log for Record, #2
The first combination performs as expected. The very first live attempt to configure midair, despite operating in very safe conditions, goes wrong quickly. Hovering gently over the Jackal, the TMU attempts to ease into the configuration…only for the components to practically crush all the components that were meant to configure.
"Yarp," Wilde says dully. "That didn't work. No need to check on the dummy I think."
"Next," Henry agrees stoically.
Video Log for Record, #3
The next attempt goes somewhat better, but only a bit. The next attempt is able to latch onto the modular points safely. But that is when the inner machinery starts configuring out of order, leading to much the same result – a crushed internal system. The mangled fuse of machinery and metal promptly collapses and falls flat on its face.
"Bit better," Wilde says cheerfully.
"Next," Henry says again.
Video Log for Record, #4
"Full disclaimer," Wilde says. He actually sounds embarrassed. "Captain Sasaki and Doc Ignatov were asking us why we weren't using laser and wire guided systems."
"I will also place on the record, Lieutenant," Sasaki interjects, "I did not sound 'smug.'"
"Keep telling yourself that, Ma'am," Wilde mutters. "Anyway, we tried this next test with that in mind. We connected wire and laser guidance systems to the modular points on both ends. Glad to say, it finally worked."
This test actually goes quite well. The TMU slowly descends onto the Jackal's shoulders, and firmly clamps down onto the modular-configuration points. From there, the TMU splits in half, with the front and cockpit points folding down onto the torso of the Jackal, while the engines and rear points fold onto the back, locking neatly into place.
Henry chimes in. "It works," he agrees, "But pilot safety is still a very big issue. I could see the Jackal being piloted without problems, but the TMU is a big issue. If Dr. Ignatov can develop a program or something that can automatically calculate the configuration process, or even fly the TMU on its own, or something like it…then we'd be in business."
As you shut off the video, you look again at Ignatov's report. "About that…"
First Combinable Configuration experiment successful!
Jackal and TMU successfully configured into combination form!
Pending Name
Jackal and TMU successfully configured into combination form!
Pending Name
Defense Force 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.
Duration: 1
Progress to Security Net, Unlocks Aviation Actions, Increase of RP Income (+1/+2 per turn)
Duration: 1
Progress to Security Net, Unlocks Aviation Actions, Increase of RP Income (+1/+2 per turn)
0730, 13 September, A.D. 2070
Landing Pad, Campus Outskirts
"Research Institute ground control, this is the dropship Yuri Gagarin, estimated time of arrival is 15 minutes. We're on approach, requesting landing guidance, over."
"Yuri Gagarin, this is Tower Control. Standby for guidance procedures. Congratulations, you're our first customer, over."
"Tower, Gagarin. Has our landing procedure changed? Over."
"Affirmative, Gagarin. You now have proper tarmac to land on. Standby…confirm reception of laser guidance, over."
"Good copy, Tower. Getting a strong signal. Are we to follow laser guidance in? Over."
"Roger, Gagarin. You get the big pad, Landing Zone #1. Follow it in, the usual crowd will take over from there. Also be advised, we have birds of our own coming to escort you in, over."
"Understood, Tower. Bringing the goods in. Gagarin out."
You watch in satisfaction as the comforting sight of the Stork-class Gagarin approaches, this time on a proper landing zone and not just a patch of dead grass and dirt. Not too far away from the enormous dropship, several of your TMUs in jetfighter mode, launched from smaller auxiliary pads, take up escort positions alongside the Gagarin in a protective formation. A fair distance away from the Campus Grounds, there are now two runways, with a gate system allowing entry to and from dedicated maintenance bays. There is also a set of three landing bays and smaller auxiliary pads for smaller vehicles, all properly paved and serviced by yellow-jacketed ground guidance staff crawling over the pad getting ready for the Gagarin's arrival.
And it was all done without extra resources.
You suspect working at the DFRI ingrains a unique sort of madness in your people. But it's a madness you're more than happy to have.
Now you know you can justify additional resources every month. You have a guaranteed way of receiving them without bottlenecks.
Result: Progress to Security Net
Unlocks Aviation Actions
Increase of RP Income (+1/+2 per turn; roll 1d6 at the beginning of each turn, 1-3 gains +1 RP, 4-6 gains +2 RP)
Unlocks Aviation Actions
Increase of RP Income (+1/+2 per turn; roll 1d6 at the beginning of each turn, 1-3 gains +1 RP, 4-6 gains +2 RP)
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
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
Strategic and Tactical Analysis, CR-01 Jackal
Video Log by Captain Sasaki, Haruko
"While we have conducted studies of the opposition we are expected to face, it currently shows that what we have is inadequate to the task. This is not a slight against the efforts of our people: even after nine months of development and breakthroughs, as Brigadier Peters stated, we are still playing a game of catchup. The only comforting notion is that the opposition and our 'competitors' are content with the means in which they employ against each other."
The overview of the Jackal is presented in the video screen. "The CR-01 Jackal is, without doubt, one of our greatest successes. It is a milestone in mechanical engineering, and it has already proven itself against Westphalian insurgents. But it can – and must – become much more than this."
Overlays of the incomplete Hound, the semi-successful TMU combination, the Man Machine Interface, and the theoretical advantages provided by the kaiju samples and the Supercomputer AI are indicated to the sides. "Right now, the Jackal is effectively a clean slate, with many possibilities open to it."
Additional ideas flow across the screen, showing multiple proposed combining configurations, weapon types, and more. "As such, we are conducting a thorough analysis, aided by our test pilot, Lieutenant Callaghan, to see what possibilities exist. But the immediate goal of this project is to modify a Jackal into something that can begin to compete with the threats we face."
The hull of the Jackal, still painted in a tan desert color interestingly enough, is slowly becoming modified on the screen along with the proposed changes. The utilitarian, camera drone-esque head module is slowly replaced by something much more resembling a humanoid face.
"I project that upon completion of this study, our efforts to accelerate our progress to a proper Super Robot will shave time on the order of months off our timetables. We will report our conclusions at the end of next month."
Conclusion of study at end of next turn. Potential bonuses will be unveiled next turn.
Guided Development – On the other hand, it may be safer if Ignatov and Katarina do step in. While you could cause some harm, you also have the wider network coherency to maintain, and there's no telling if the codes decide to become malicious. Ignatov and Katarina have already devised a way of 'grounding' the personalities and getting them to calm down. Then they will learn at their own pace, all the while guided by Katarina and Ignatov. They are equally unhappy with this option either, but this is not an easy problem to consider.
Test Roll at Disadvantage (1d6 (+1d6, Katarina's Support), Threshold of 5-6)
(Chance to develop basic personalities, will not develop traits to start, ???)
Test Roll at Disadvantage (1d6 (+1d6, Katarina's Support), Threshold of 5-6)
(Chance to develop basic personalities, will not develop traits to start, ???)
1900, 23 September, A.D. 2070
'The Lair,' Engineering Complex
"I think the results speak for themselves, Major," Ignatov says with a weary smile.
Even though you know you shouldn't worry about the man, the fact you're seeing him constantly in a state of exhaustion from the AI Supercomputers worries you anyway. But just this once…you think you'll let it slide.
Katarina's avatar appears in the bottom left corner of the monitor sets. "We calmed them down," Katarina says. Her 'body language' on the screen mirrors that of Ignatov's: weary triumph. "We did have to take a few extra measures, but we think we can safely integrate the wider campus into the network."
Ignatov taps a few commands, and a blueprint overlay of the Lair is shown. "We have applied a series of filters into the networks," he says. "For now, we are limiting the available space for the new AI codes."
"I'm also teaching them," Katarina says with a smile. "Nothing too specific right now. Just how to talk, how to interact with people, the basics of maintaining their own code structure – stuff like that."
It's the way she says it, but… "You're doing that…right now?" you ask. "While we're talking?"
"Well, yeah," she admits. "Right now, two code structures are coherent enough that I'm teaching them. They're not quite as advanced as I am, but that's going to change. So right now I don't have to spare too much attention to that."
You just look at Ignatov. He just serenely smiles back. "I taught her well," he says with pride.
Turning back to the blueprints, you ask, "So are there more of the code structures? Or-?"
"Just those two for now," Katarina says. "I've also looked into how we could create more, only without them running around in panic. Right now, we're restricting them to about two server hubs each. They're curious, and they're cheerful enough, but they're…kind of in a state like I was a few months ago. Honestly, I don't think they can handle anything too advanced right now, but…" She pauses to 'think.' "You could probably, I dunno, make them bodies? They'd still have plenty to do, and they could still interact with the network, but without having the strain of it all on them. Or you could also just assign them to specific areas, like the workshop or the landing pad?"
You blink at that idea. "…you might want to get with Lieutenant Wilde then," you say. Turning to Ignatov, you ask, "How soon can you get us all wired up?"
"Oh, please, Major," Ignatov laughs. "Do not worry yourself over that. You will have our proposals for that by next month's gathering."
New Adviser, 'Katarina,' gained! You may apply +1d6 to ONE ENGINEERING Action per turn! (Bonus can be altered/expanded through Actions)
Two Supercomputer AI (Basic Personalities) gained! Unlocks New Actions
New Supercomputer AI Actions unlocked!
Two Supercomputer AI (Basic Personalities) gained! Unlocks New Actions
New Supercomputer AI Actions unlocked!
Science Actions
ESP – Pushing Limits – Sam's been reporting some interesting new results. A prolonged exposure to ESP usage is apparently having new effects on the users. He's still got two months left on the study, but he's found something rather interesting.
Cost: 1 RP Locked
Duration: 2 Turns
Cost: 1 RP Locked
Duration: 2 Turns
1324, 22 September, A.D. 2070
Carlson Laboratories, ESP Branch
"Talk about putting your heads together," Sam notes. "Turns out we stumbled onto a new principle of ESP entirely by accident." He grins. "Best kind of scientific discovery if I'm honest."
You're too busy looking at the printouts. As usual, the equations all go over your head, but the diagrams and the video recordings speak for themselves. "People can pool their powers together?" you guess.
"Pretty much that," Sam agrees. "Check this out, John." A video recording of three other test candidates are shown operating near one machine, which turns out to be a mechanical practice frame of the Jackal. "So some people just aren't going to be able to do much on their own. You can overcome that with some practice and some good ol' Union grit, but some people are just gonna struggle."
The machine is struggling to move at all, much less do anything, and one of the test candidates is visibly struggling. The experiment is about to be written off when another limb abruptly begins moving. Researchers on another terminal in an adjacent terminal are scrambling in shock as the next candidate over is suddenly hunched over, struggling in somewhat the same way as the first candidate. Before long, the one frame is slowly beginning to move properly...operated by two people.
"Was there any side effects?" you ask.
"We don't know yet," Sam admits. "We're keeping those two under observation and bedrest for the next month. This is either a big moment, or it's a danger we're gonna have to build in failsafes against."
"...hold up," you say. You point at the video of the frame itself, isolated by its own screen. "Reverse that playback to one minute nineteen seconds."
As you watch the video play back again, you finally see what was jumping out at you: the frame is visibly struggling at the moment the two 'joined forces,' but within ten seconds, the frame has normalized. Though still producing stuttering motions, the frame is operating much more efficiently...but it's clear that the upper torso and the legs are operating in tandem from different inputs.
"...huh. I'll admit I missed that," Sam says with a puzzled look. "We were focused on studying the side effects, and seeing if they needed to be treated for anything."
"Can you get something by next month?" you ask him.
"That's the idea."
New potential abilities/side effects detected. Will be determined next turn.
All following Actions to be expanded upon in upcoming Interlude
Kaiju Biotech – Kaiju Valley – So you've discovered that by keeping a kaiju sample on ice for almost a year, you can eliminate the self-destruct mechanisms of a kaiju sample. Assuming it's roughly the same size as the one you found. The facilities are ideal enough that Sam thinks he can start a growth facility for the sample.
He warns that if you do this, he's going to need the majority of the sample to have enough to grow with. If you want to take samples for other research purposes, he advises you to do it now because he won't be able to give any away safely during cultivation.
Cost: 3 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 3 Turns
Progress to Kaiju Biotech Theory, Reduce Duration of all Kaiju Biotech Actions by 1 (cannot reduce below 1 Turn)
Construction of Kaiju Biotech Growth Facilities
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. If you take this now, he can take a small sample of the scale and see if you can make viable building material out of the thing.
Cost: 1 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 2 Turns
Progress to Kaiju Biotech Theory, Discover ???, Unlocks New Actions
Kaiju Biotech – And for my next trick… – Sam is both ecstatic and livid at the revelation that kaiju tissue samples decided to give physics the middle finger. That said, if you're not going to try and start a kaiju farm just yet, he thinks he can coax some new weapon applications out of the kaiju scale to be fitted onto the likes of the Jackal. He just needs two months, some resources, and a hurrah for Science.
"SCIENCE!"
Cost: 2 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 2 Turns
Progress to Kaiju Biotech Theory, Discover ???, Unlocks New Actions
Kaiju Biotech – Kaiju Valley – So you've discovered that by keeping a kaiju sample on ice for almost a year, you can eliminate the self-destruct mechanisms of a kaiju sample. Assuming it's roughly the same size as the one you found. The facilities are ideal enough that Sam thinks he can start a growth facility for the sample.
He warns that if you do this, he's going to need the majority of the sample to have enough to grow with. If you want to take samples for other research purposes, he advises you to do it now because he won't be able to give any away safely during cultivation.
Cost: 3 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 3 Turns
Progress to Kaiju Biotech Theory, Reduce Duration of all Kaiju Biotech Actions by 1 (cannot reduce below 1 Turn)
Construction of Kaiju Biotech Growth Facilities
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. If you take this now, he can take a small sample of the scale and see if you can make viable building material out of the thing.
Cost: 1 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 2 Turns
Progress to Kaiju Biotech Theory, Discover ???, Unlocks New Actions
Kaiju Biotech – And for my next trick… – Sam is both ecstatic and livid at the revelation that kaiju tissue samples decided to give physics the middle finger. That said, if you're not going to try and start a kaiju farm just yet, he thinks he can coax some new weapon applications out of the kaiju scale to be fitted onto the likes of the Jackal. He just needs two months, some resources, and a hurrah for Science.
"SCIENCE!"
Cost: 2 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 2 Turns
Progress to Kaiju Biotech Theory, Discover ???, Unlocks New Actions
Wait a second, Currently the super robot looks to be piloted by a psychic human and 2 AIs for a total of 3 people, the combination robot will be compromised of 2 jets at the very least and it will have a biological theme due to the Kaiju samples.
It's totally gonna be Yuusha/Getter Robo crossover.
(Open Get can be utilized by the interplay between psychic abilities and AI)
It's totally gonna be Yuusha/Getter Robo crossover.
(Open Get can be utilized by the interplay between psychic abilities and AI)
- Location
- Nowhere
Not using death-row convicts as a cheaper test subject for the trials? NERV is disappoint.
They were not that smart it seems.
Totally, I hope we do get that.
We'll need a cool name for this one.
I hope they won't charge us for the fuel spent everytime that ship shows up.
Heh, it seems that an humanoid face is a mandatory element from any non-EVA super-robot.
One for the workshop, one for the landing pad and one for the laboratory. We can make this work.
No exploding heads yet. Perhaps if they sing together the synchronization will work better?
Too bad we don't have drills or G-Rays yet.
Alectai
Speaks Words of Wisdom... On occasion
Well, it does appear to be our StealthGao equivilant. Or possibly an early GadgetGao
shinkiro
absolute madmage
- Location
- Gensokyo
Im actaully startting to think our SR will be a bit like LIger Zero, we have the SR chassie, and then modual armor+weapons sets for different situations.
so we can create sets desinged to hard counter certine threats.
course if we get bad intel we might be in trobule.
so we can create sets desinged to hard counter certine threats.
course if we get bad intel we might be in trobule.
Last edited:
Science Report: Carlson Laboratories, Kaiju Biotechnology Study #1
- Location
- USA
A cheerful jingle plays once again as the emblem of "CARLSON LABORATORIES" flashes across the screen.
"Sam Carlson here! Time for a change of pace. I've spoiled you people enough with the mind. Time to focus on the next section of development: Kaiju Biotechnology!"
Immediately a reel of the original Godzilla begins playing, complete with the impotence of conventional weaponry on display.
"Uh, editor? Cut that, we don't have the rights-"
*bzzt*
"So! As you all know, the kaiju run on absolute nonsense. And I say that as a pioneer in ESP!" Additional videos of recorded kaiju attacks are shown on screen, each showing them plowing through all manners of conventional equipment. "Now as far as we can tell, each kaiju is built differently. You got plenty that are fast - " One video shows a serpent-like kaiju plowing through the waves, all but breaking a cruiser in half in its wake.
" - tough - " A dinosaur-like kaiju is shown taking direct blows to the face from Mercury V, only for it to roar in defiance and headbutt Mercury V in the face, knocking it askew.
" - some that breathe fire - " A flying kaiju is shown swooping down onto an airfield spewing fire from its mouth, immolating a row of transport planes.
" - and all in all just shouldn't damned work. Until recently, we haven't had a chance to study the damned things properly. Reason is: leftover kaiju flesh simply melts whenever it's left alone. Until now."
An overlay of the kaiju sample captured is shown in deep freeze, along with charts and graphs of molecular structures. "True Fact: if you manage to freeze kaiju samples in time, and keep them frozen, you are preventing a failsafe measure from taking place. There's a redundant corrosive material in each part of kaiju tissue that's designed to destroy and deny the leftover flesh."
"But! Keep it in deep freeze for long enough?" The representation of the chemical is shown attempting to butt heads against the sample while frozen, to no effect. The animators then show the chemical keep trying to destroy the sample until it slowly grays out and immediately just falls away, leaving the sound of crashing dishes in the background. "That happens, more or less. We outlasted it, and now we have our very own sample to work with."
There is a panning view of the core sample remaining, only now it's simply floating in preservation liquid. Parts of it are missing, however; many are already distributed to cultivation farms, where researchers are simulating conditions that would encourage it to grow under controlled conditions. "Right now? We're figuring out what'll cause the samples to grow at all. It'll be slow going, but we know it's possible. We already have a few candidates."
"One: simply feed it some basic nutrients in liquid form. No matter how stupid or off the rails this genetic code is, even they need some nourishment." One chunk of cut-up sample is floating in preservation liquid, only with injections of nutrient liquids being injected into it from time to time.
"Two: photosynthesis. Lots of lifeforms not some podunk planet's last hope get power from the sun." One sample, similarly in preservation liquid, is subjected under sunlamps. All the researchers are wearing tinted safety goggles, though there's at least one who's simply...sunbathing. "Hey, cut that out! Do that on your off time!"
"Three, and I kid you not: power metal." One preservation liquid tank with a sample in it is simply surrounded by speakers all blaring heavy metal, rock, and whatever else the interns decided they wanted to listen to. Quite a few of them, while taking notes, are simply taking the time to headbang in tune with the music. "There's actual science backing up that plants benefit from this, so we're seeing if this works for kaiju samples. No clue if that'll pan out, but hey, I'm all for it."
"Last, but not least, we took some samples to see if we could get some application out of them. And as it turns out, we can!" One sample is slowly having pressure applied to it via an industrial press, while another appears to be applied to a grinder. Very, very gradually. "Oh, should've warned you - this is not viewing for the faint of heart. As it turns out, we've discovered that after keeping the sample in deep freeze for a year, the sample is tricked into thinking that it's back to being ready for integration into another kaiju, or whatever project Sheol wants. And it changes to what you want it to be. One sample simply decided that since it was being frozen for so long, it'd better go along with adding to the cold." A picture of the frozen sample is shown, still contributing to the freezing temperatures of its containment zone.
"This one, we discovered, is very, very slowly adjusting itself to become a new set of scales. Since we're applying pressure to it, it's generating a response to become a much tougher solid material. And this one...we're not entirely sure if this will actually make it sharper, but the engineers were asking for good building materials, and - " The grinder promptly begins developing a gouge in the middle of it, with the operators scrambling to shut it down. "Ah, there it goes. Okay, that does work, but we need to work on the safety issues...huh?" Muttered whispering appears in the background. "Ah, got it. They're fine, but they'll be in the hospital for a little."
"That's all we've got for the moment. Give us a month, though, we should start seeing some results. But this promises to be another avenue to developing our own bigger, better Super Robot."
"Sam Carlson, we're done here!"
"Sam Carlson here! Time for a change of pace. I've spoiled you people enough with the mind. Time to focus on the next section of development: Kaiju Biotechnology!"
Immediately a reel of the original Godzilla begins playing, complete with the impotence of conventional weaponry on display.
"Uh, editor? Cut that, we don't have the rights-"
*bzzt*
"So! As you all know, the kaiju run on absolute nonsense. And I say that as a pioneer in ESP!" Additional videos of recorded kaiju attacks are shown on screen, each showing them plowing through all manners of conventional equipment. "Now as far as we can tell, each kaiju is built differently. You got plenty that are fast - " One video shows a serpent-like kaiju plowing through the waves, all but breaking a cruiser in half in its wake.
" - tough - " A dinosaur-like kaiju is shown taking direct blows to the face from Mercury V, only for it to roar in defiance and headbutt Mercury V in the face, knocking it askew.
" - some that breathe fire - " A flying kaiju is shown swooping down onto an airfield spewing fire from its mouth, immolating a row of transport planes.
" - and all in all just shouldn't damned work. Until recently, we haven't had a chance to study the damned things properly. Reason is: leftover kaiju flesh simply melts whenever it's left alone. Until now."
An overlay of the kaiju sample captured is shown in deep freeze, along with charts and graphs of molecular structures. "True Fact: if you manage to freeze kaiju samples in time, and keep them frozen, you are preventing a failsafe measure from taking place. There's a redundant corrosive material in each part of kaiju tissue that's designed to destroy and deny the leftover flesh."
"But! Keep it in deep freeze for long enough?" The representation of the chemical is shown attempting to butt heads against the sample while frozen, to no effect. The animators then show the chemical keep trying to destroy the sample until it slowly grays out and immediately just falls away, leaving the sound of crashing dishes in the background. "That happens, more or less. We outlasted it, and now we have our very own sample to work with."
Kaiju Biotech – Kaiju Valley – So you've discovered that by keeping a kaiju sample on ice for almost a year, you can eliminate the self-destruct mechanisms of a kaiju sample. Assuming it's roughly the same size as the one you found. The facilities are ideal enough that Sam thinks he can start a growth facility for the sample.
He warns that if you do this, he's going to need the majority of the sample to have enough to grow with. If you want to take samples for other research purposes, he advises you to do it now because he won't be able to give any away safely during cultivation.
Cost: 3 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 3 Turns
Progress to Kaiju Biotech Theory, Reduce Duration of all Kaiju Biotech Actions by 1 (cannot reduce below 1 Turn)
Construction of Kaiju Biotech Growth Facilities
He warns that if you do this, he's going to need the majority of the sample to have enough to grow with. If you want to take samples for other research purposes, he advises you to do it now because he won't be able to give any away safely during cultivation.
Cost: 3 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 3 Turns
Progress to Kaiju Biotech Theory, Reduce Duration of all Kaiju Biotech Actions by 1 (cannot reduce below 1 Turn)
Construction of Kaiju Biotech Growth Facilities
There is a panning view of the core sample remaining, only now it's simply floating in preservation liquid. Parts of it are missing, however; many are already distributed to cultivation farms, where researchers are simulating conditions that would encourage it to grow under controlled conditions. "Right now? We're figuring out what'll cause the samples to grow at all. It'll be slow going, but we know it's possible. We already have a few candidates."
"One: simply feed it some basic nutrients in liquid form. No matter how stupid or off the rails this genetic code is, even they need some nourishment." One chunk of cut-up sample is floating in preservation liquid, only with injections of nutrient liquids being injected into it from time to time.
"Two: photosynthesis. Lots of lifeforms not some podunk planet's last hope get power from the sun." One sample, similarly in preservation liquid, is subjected under sunlamps. All the researchers are wearing tinted safety goggles, though there's at least one who's simply...sunbathing. "Hey, cut that out! Do that on your off time!"
"Three, and I kid you not: power metal." One preservation liquid tank with a sample in it is simply surrounded by speakers all blaring heavy metal, rock, and whatever else the interns decided they wanted to listen to. Quite a few of them, while taking notes, are simply taking the time to headbang in tune with the music. "There's actual science backing up that plants benefit from this, so we're seeing if this works for kaiju samples. No clue if that'll pan out, but hey, I'm all for it."
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. If you take this now, he can take a small sample of the scale and see if you can make viable building material out of the thing.
Cost: 1 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 2 Turns
Progress to Kaiju Biotech Theory, Discover ???, Unlocks New Actions
Cost: 1 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 2 Turns
Progress to Kaiju Biotech Theory, Discover ???, Unlocks New Actions
Kaiju Biotech – And for my next trick… – Sam is both ecstatic and livid at the revelation that kaiju tissue samples decided to give physics the middle finger. That said, if you're not going to try and start a kaiju farm just yet, he thinks he can coax some new weapon applications out of the kaiju scale to be fitted onto the likes of the Jackal. He just needs two months, some resources, and a hurrah for Science.
"SCIENCE!"
Cost: 2 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 2 Turns
Progress to Kaiju Biotech Theory, Discover ???, Unlocks New Actions
"SCIENCE!"
Cost: 2 RP (1 RP Locked Next Turn)
Duration: 2 Turns
Progress to Kaiju Biotech Theory, Discover ???, Unlocks New Actions
"Last, but not least, we took some samples to see if we could get some application out of them. And as it turns out, we can!" One sample is slowly having pressure applied to it via an industrial press, while another appears to be applied to a grinder. Very, very gradually. "Oh, should've warned you - this is not viewing for the faint of heart. As it turns out, we've discovered that after keeping the sample in deep freeze for a year, the sample is tricked into thinking that it's back to being ready for integration into another kaiju, or whatever project Sheol wants. And it changes to what you want it to be. One sample simply decided that since it was being frozen for so long, it'd better go along with adding to the cold." A picture of the frozen sample is shown, still contributing to the freezing temperatures of its containment zone.
"This one, we discovered, is very, very slowly adjusting itself to become a new set of scales. Since we're applying pressure to it, it's generating a response to become a much tougher solid material. And this one...we're not entirely sure if this will actually make it sharper, but the engineers were asking for good building materials, and - " The grinder promptly begins developing a gouge in the middle of it, with the operators scrambling to shut it down. "Ah, there it goes. Okay, that does work, but we need to work on the safety issues...huh?" Muttered whispering appears in the background. "Ah, got it. They're fine, but they'll be in the hospital for a little."
"That's all we've got for the moment. Give us a month, though, we should start seeing some results. But this promises to be another avenue to developing our own bigger, better Super Robot."
"Sam Carlson, we're done here!"
Properties are slowly being uncovered. Turns remaining on all results.
Let there be metal.
Let there be metal.
Last edited:
- Location
- California
I see it. I can see a vision my brothers.
I see a Expy for Jack Black screaming to the Heavens," The Power of ROCK AND ROLL Compels you!!"
All future Kaiju Samples from our facility will become Music Fanatics, and it is glorious.
- Location
- Panama City
*Ahem* Mic Sounders the 13th, you plebian. Jack Black has NOTHING on him
- Location
- United States of America, Michigan
I'm not too sure about the idea of using the helicopter blades as a weapon because if they get damaged then the TMU is going to have some trouble disconnecting since they have to use the helicopter form to disentangle as far as I can tell.
- Location
- California
*Ahem* Mic Sounders the 13th, you plebian. Jack Black has NOTHING on him
Ah, forgive me. The most prominent Rock Musician I remembered was Jack Black. I still think my state works, so what can you do ¯\_(ツ)_/¯?
- Location
- Nowhere
You would think that 70+ years later would be enough to forget about the original movie's copyrights.
How long have been the kaiju rampaging?
Is that a reference to Superman?
Using power metal to make samples of angry reptiles grow, instead of jazz or something tamer. What could go wrong?
Yep, that could work as average building material.
Indeed!
- Location
- USA
So, quick roll for your shiny new RP income bonus.
+1 RP for Turn Ten
For a few years now. As far as you can tell right now, they're not enough to destroy entire cities by themselves, as weight of numbers do bring them down. But you don't know how long that state of affairs will keep.
The kaiju raids are not that common. Apparently it takes awhile to grow a kaiju (as you're finding out with individual samples). But they are horribly destructive when they arrive.
Sam's not a big fan, but that might be because he got introduced to him with the wrong source material.
Also, we're due a new interlude. The world is still happening around you, so I am giving you a choice of interlude for you all. A free sneak peak into what's going on around the world.
Who do you want a brief narrative insight into? I don't promise this interlude will come before the next update, but I'll plug away at it.
VOTE, and take your pick!
[] The Kausen
[] The Kaiju
[] Westphalia
+1 RP for Turn Ten
For a few years now. As far as you can tell right now, they're not enough to destroy entire cities by themselves, as weight of numbers do bring them down. But you don't know how long that state of affairs will keep.
The kaiju raids are not that common. Apparently it takes awhile to grow a kaiju (as you're finding out with individual samples). But they are horribly destructive when they arrive.
Sam's not a big fan, but that might be because he got introduced to him with the wrong source material.
Also, we're due a new interlude. The world is still happening around you, so I am giving you a choice of interlude for you all. A free sneak peak into what's going on around the world.
Who do you want a brief narrative insight into? I don't promise this interlude will come before the next update, but I'll plug away at it.
VOTE, and take your pick!
[] The Kausen
[] The Kaiju
[] Westphalia
LinkOnScepter
The One who Strangles Concepts to death
- Location
- Interwebs
[X] Westphalia
- Location
- United States of America, Michigan
[X] The Kaiju
Let's see if Mr. Kaiju realizes we have a sample of his scaley beasts.
Let's see if Mr. Kaiju realizes we have a sample of his scaley beasts.