We need to start slowly in regards to our new allies. We should definitely think about offering them Variable Configuration. I would also suggest that we tell them about the Alien Artifact that we have. Maybe they can tell us what it is. I am of the opinion that the thing is more important than we realize. Maybe they know what it might be.
As far as you can tell, his English is perfectly fine, but he just seems unused to it. You don't know much more than that.
Appearance-wise, as Callaghan noted Galbinus is quite tall. There is an emblem of some kind that looks to be an alien script character emblazoned into his left shoulder mount, while the right has what looks like a classic five-pointed star with a stylized 'X' in the middle. Very similar to the reports Rockefeller brought to you nearly half a year ago. It could be a faction emblem.
Otherwise, Galbinus does not have a visor or faceplate, so you can see his facial expressions. He has what looks like an old-fashioned helmet as part of his head unit, but otherwise he has a primary dull green color scheme with purple highlights and golden optics.
It seems that the Free Brothers are a renegade faction and Galbinus faction opposes them, but what is the status of Galbinus himself? Can he call the space police? Is he and his buddies the space police? If so what are their rules of engagement, hiding from the native populace and only engaging Kausen criminals?
Before we can offer anything we need to know where they stand regarding their diplomatic mandate.
I guess in broad terms we want to share knowledge of threats (and cultures, for greater understanding), possible alliance to fight common enemies and leave the door open for technological sharing in the future.
[X] Plan: An Equal Exchange
-[X] Begin by asking for more information on the history of the conflict of the Kausen. In return, we can share our current situation w/ regards to the Westphalians and Dr. Sheol's Kaiju
--[X] Some information on distinguishing between the two factions would be helpful, in order to avoid friendly fire situations.
-[X] Ask about Kausen needs in terms of energy and any other resources of note, both in terms of what Galbinus and his company may need, and what the Free Brothers may be after in their raids.
--[X] Offer to supply some of that need (if we can) to Galbanus. In exchange, we would ask for information on some of their technology, or better yet, more functional samples of it.
-[X] IF AND ONLY IF Galbanus asks about the variable configuration, Explain some of it's basic concepts, and ask what in particular they may be interested in using.
--[X] We could use this gift as leverage to ask for more tech/resources.
Setting up a new vote to more tentatively begin establishing an alliance. Taking small steps in building that trust, without letting too many of our tricks out of the bag.
This works. I also would like to include a question about whether they have organic-based civilizations in their dominion, or if they're all Kausen. Just to know.
Let's see then. Looks like An Equal Exchange wins out.
Adhoc vote count started by Basarin on May 28, 2018 at 5:26 PM, finished with 17 posts and 8 votes.
[X] Plan: An Equal Exchange
-[X] Begin by asking for more information on the history of the conflict of the Kausen. In return, we can share our current situation w/ regards to the Westphalians and Dr. Sheol's Kaiju
--[X] Some information on distinguishing between the two factions would be helpful, in order to avoid friendly fire situations.
-[X] Ask about Kausen needs in terms of energy and any other resources of note, both in terms of what Galbinus and his company may need, and what the Free Brothers may be after in their raids.
--[X] Offer to supply some of that need (if we can) to Galbanus. In exchange, we would ask for information on some of their technology, or better yet, more functional samples of it.
-[X] IF AND ONLY IF Galbanus asks about the variable configuration, Explain some of it's basic concepts, and ask what in particular they may be interested in using.
--[X] We could use this gift as leverage to ask for more tech/resources.
[X]Plan: Diplomatic opening
-[X]So starting off, we would request an alliance between the DFRI and Galbinus. All requests below are seperate from the alliance, and he may agree or disagree as he wishes.
--[X] 1st request of him, is information to tell his and him apart from their enemies down here, so we don't have a friendly fire case. (may or may not cover backstory, dunno about that.)
--[X] 2nd is a proposed trade: History of Kausen/why do you guys need refined energy in exchange for our building an Enclave for he and his. Assistance from him and his is optional.
Maybe it's probably Major Devin sensing that Galbinus is also someone who was promoted to a position way higher than his last one, by virtue of being the only one fit for the job, but determined enough to make shit work anyway.
-[X] Begin by asking for more information on the history of the conflict of the Kausen. In return, we can share our current situation w/ regards to the Westphalians and Dr. Sheol's Kaiju
Why would the Kausen be interested in Kaiju and Westphalians? They are here (apparently) just because there's another group of Kausen they want/have to fight. I don't think they'll get involved in the fight between the EUDF and the Westphalians and the Kaijus, unless we give them good reasons to do so.
Why would the Kausen be interested in Kaiju and Westphalians? They are here (apparently) just because there's another group of Kausen they want/have to fight. I don't think they'll get involved in the fight between the EUDF and the Westphalians and the Kaijus, unless we give them good reasons to do so.
Mostly to explain where we're coming from, and why we may not be able to devote ourselves to their civil war 24/7. Also, they may very well cross paths with our friends here, so it's best to give them a heads up.
Plan: An Equal Exchange
-Begin by asking for more information on the history of the conflict of the Kausen. In return, we can share our current situation w/ regards to the Westphalians and Dr. Sheol's Kaiju
--Some information on distinguishing between the two factions would be helpful, in order to avoid friendly fire situations.
-Ask about Kausen needs in terms of energy and any other resources of note, both in terms of what Galbinus and his company may need, and what the Free Brothers may be after in their raids.
--Offer to supply some of that need (if we can) to Galbanus. In exchange, we would ask for information on some of their technology, or better yet, more functional samples of it.
-IF AND ONLY IF Galbanus asks about the variable configuration, Explain some of it's basic concepts, and ask what in particular they may be interested in using.
--We could use this gift as leverage to ask for more tech/resources.
0624, 16 January, A.D. 2071
"The first thing I need to ask," you start. This was a question that you were already determined to ask should you ever get the opportunity. "How and why are you here on Earth? What brought you here?"
"The last question is one I've been asking myself over the last solar cycle," Galbinus said. You can hear the outright frustration in his voice, but he's trying not to let it get to him. "It's a sad tale, one that is not even finished yet."
The image of what looks to be a solitary planet appears in front of you. "This is Mekaen, our home," he says. Wistfully, you notice. "Home to the most brilliant of minds, the bravest of explorers, the hardiest of pioneers. I am an officer of the ruling Council's Militia." The wistful tone then hardened. "And we have been locked in civil conflict for a long time. Your languages do not have units of measure to properly encompass it."
"It is more accurate to say that there is never a singular face to the uprisings. Some had legitimate grievances, ones that we were able to settle peacefully. Others were political radicals that would stop at nothing until either they or the Council were deactivated." Galbinus surprises you with an oddly human gesture - sighing. "And then there are those who choose to simply profit off of the chaos. One such as Tyrannous."
"Who is Tyrannous?" you ask. "It's a name we heard a few times, but that's it."
"The leader of the self-styled 'Free Brothers,'" he says. His tone and posture never changes, but something about the way he speaks suggests that there is a long history between them. "Tyrannous did not always go by that name. He was once a laborer unit in the spaceports of Mekaen's satellites. He joined a movement that campaigned for increased compensation, but he outmaneuvered the original leaders. What was once a peaceful gathering, he had turned into a personal militia for his own selfish gain."
"...you know a lot about him," you say.
"My rank does not exactly have an equivalent in English," he says. "But I am called to serve Mekaen in war as a warrior, and an investigator in peace. And investigating the Free Brothers was my assignment." He glances over at Patch, who is still arguing over something minor with Cavalier. "Some under my command remember those days."
"How does that explain why you're here, though?" you ask.
"In one of our engagements, we were...struck," he struggles to find the right word, "by what looked to be a rogue projectile. One large enough to destroy parts of the very satellite we fought over." For a brief moment, Galbinus looks lost. "Not a single one of us has any memory logs of what took place. And if I were to believe his claims, neither does Tyrannous or any Free Brother of his."
You frown as you think about that bit of information. They were literally minding their own business and seeing to their own affairs when something brought them here against their will. You're not sure how much of the story you believe...but you can definitely believe that a fair few of them would rather be home.
But you bring yourself back to a more practical issue. "How can we identify you and yours from Tyrannous' followers?" you ask. "You must know that most humans don't think there's a difference."
"I am aware," he sighs. "But here." One of your blank papers is abruptly burnt slightly. When you blink again, the faint imprint of an emblem is neatly laid onto the paper. A five-pointed green star, with a stylized 'X' in the center. "The mechs under my command all bear this banner," he says. "And they know how to conduct themselves. The Free Brothers have no such organization; they are far more individualized than we in that respect."
"I appreciate it," you say as you examine the emblem. "But...what are they after?"
"Tyrannous claims he is gathering enough energy to bring his followers home," Galbinus says. You can hear the incredulity in his voice. "If that were truly the case, he could have left a long time ago. But he continues to linger in the system." The image of the solar system appears in front of you, with a few locations marked out. "Though we know he tends to linger in the belt of asteroids between the fourth and fifth planet of your system, he possesses a ship that never remains in one place for long." His tone shifts to that of sheer disgust. "An area that has more than enough for him to gather if he were to simply leave. He is either simply greedier than even I thought, or he is looking for something specifically. Which, I do not know." He sighs again. "The general hostility of humans leaves me with little room to conduct investigations as I am used to."
"You keep mentioning energy," you ask. "Cavalier said something about shards. What are you referring to?"
"Energy shards are both sustenance and currency for the Kausen," he explains. A small compartment opens up and a jagged jade-colored crystal falls into his hand. He offers it to Callaghan's Jackal, who takes it carefully and examines it in its hands. It pulses slightly, and something swirls within, almost like a lava lamp. "Though we can produce it out of any form of energy, processed energies provide the more potent yields."
"I always found that weird," Satsuma mutters next to you. "Currency that you eat?"
"I've heard of stranger things," Callaghan says. He carefully hands the shard back to Galbinus.
"There is much about this world that we find strange," Galbinus says with a shrug. "Some of my mechs have taken a shine to this world. I welcome that interest. But there are other threats you face." He stares directly at you. "I would know of them from one whose mission it is to face them."
That's in terms you can definitely understand and appreciate. "Some of it is flat out stranger," you admit, "But some of it isn't too different from what you're facing."
The discussions between you and Galbinus take well over an hour as you go back and forth.
You tell him of the history of the Earth Union, and its founding after years of conflict and the Day of Starfall.
You, Callaghan and Satsuma tell him of the reactionaries who could not accept the new status quo, those who rally under the banner of the Westphalian Movement. Aristocrats, elites, and powerbrokers of the Old World who could not accept their new place in the world. Galbinus seems thoughtful as you discuss the Westphalians; such a conflict that you face really does seem to strike a chord with him.
You also speak of George Sheol, and the fearsome kaiju that he unleashes from parts unknown. That he unleashes great monsters to batter the Earth Union into subjugation, to force them to accept his rule or perish. Of how the men and women of the Earth Union, even today, throw themselves into the path of danger and death, with full knowledge that they will die and that their death buys a comrade a few more precious seconds.
It is nearing 0900 when you realize how much time has passed. Galbinus, through and through, is a Soldier. One who is tired, but who cannot put down his role. It's something you can very much relate with.
"Galbinus," Patch says. Galbinus turns briefly to look at him. "Our time grows short, I'm afraid."
"Then we will conclude our talks shortly," he says. "But I have some requests for the Major Devin." He turns back to you, his blood-red optics focused on you. Despite the sense of traditional color schemes, you feel no animosity or fear from the sensation at all. "There is one piece of technology that your Defense Forces have that we do not." He gestures towards Callaghan's Jackal. "This...variable configuration."
"What of it?" Here you force yourself to act not as a fellow tired army officer, but as Peters' representative.
"I know Tyrannous is studying this technology," he says, "and he likely will make use of it to conduct further raids unnoticed. I am willing to strike a trade for it."
Patch gives him a look, but he pays it no mind.
"I'm authorized to trade for it," you admit. "Hate to say this, Galbinus, but this is where I have to speak for my superiors. I have to ask what you are willing to provide in exchange."
"That is fair," he says. "And as you have been honest with me, I will do so likewise."
You and Galbinus-R have hit it off pretty well, much more than either of you probably were expecting. You have gained quite a bit of background information on the Kausen conflict, though it is still a mystery how and why they are here. They don't even know, and they're not pleased about that.
Regardless, Galbinus is very aware of the Variable Configuration technology. He's also made it clear that he wants it, lest he fall behind on Tyrannous' studies of it.
You can leverage the technology for quite a bit, and Galbinus knows it. But in giving, you can still afford to bundle in some generosity. The question is how.
The following options are what both sides are willing to trade, and what they perceive as its relatively value. A final deal must be relatively even in value, give or take +/- 3.
What you can offer to Galbinus in terms of trade value:
[] Variable Configuration (6) - He's made it clear that this is what he wants, and isn't shy about announcing it. Presumably, Cavalier has already mentioned it to him, and he's likely seen a few examples of the Jackal already. Costs no RP to offer the plans.
[] Modify a Kaus (4) - Offer for your Engineers to assist in modifying a Legionnaire as a test case for Variable Configuration. This would be strictly supervised by Patch, but this goes over well as a sign of good faith. This will become a Special Action that you must invest in within five turns. Will cost 2 RP.
[] Offer K-Scale Samples (2) - Galbinus admits he's never seen anything like the kaiju, or anything using their tissue as a basis for materials. He's definitely interested in gaining some. Will cost 1 RP to arrange a single shipment starting next turn.
[] Offer Basing Rights (4) - Mutually exclusive with Enclave. You are interested in keeping Galbinus as an ally against his more hostile opposites, and offering an area for them to set down their equipment and recover is a way to go about it. Galbinus is intrigued by the idea. This will become a Special Action that you must invest in within five turns. Will cost 2 RP to set aside space for them.
[] Construct Legio Galbinus Enclave (7) - Mutually exclusive with Basing Rights. Why not go one step further? Offer to help them construct an actual base of operations. The old adage of where to keep friends and enemies and all that...Galbinus is frankly shocked you'd go this far, but he sounds very grateful for the idea. This will become a Special Action that you must invest in within five turns. Will cost 3 RP to start digging up room underground...or wherever they want to set themselves up.
What Galbinus is ready to trade in exchange:
[] Energy Shard Processing (6) - Galbinus personally doesn't see why you want this, and it's understandable that he's a bit leery of sharing this technology. But for you, this actually has the potential to solve some resource problems for you...but if the Free Brothers catch wind of it, they may try their luck in attacking you.
[] Kaus Anti-Gravity (4) - Galbinus admits that this is experimental even for them, and doesn't exactly work half the time. But when you combine it with flight systems (such as Bandit's getaway glider did), it can be quite potent. It has your interest.
[] Kaus Energy Weapon Samples (5) - Galbinus can see the appeal behind offering intact samples of Kausen Energy Weapons. He's willing to part with some of them if you want. This is what he is expecting you to want to trade for.
[] Kaus Armor Plating (4) - Exactly as it sounds. The Kausen, perhaps not to the same extent of the Kaiju, are quite frankly ridiculously tough by human standards. Galbinus is willing to offer you some samples to study.
[] Dispersion Field Technology - Incomplete Plans (3) - This is apparently quite a bit of rare technology even among the Kausen, and Galbinus and his mechs sadly do not have a sample of it to share. They only have partial designs for it, and while they're willing to offer it, they don't consider it to be complete...or useful to you in this state. Galbinus does not at all sound surprised when you mention you encountered it fighting Bandit.
Oh god, the fights over all the options is going to be legendary.
edit: @ Basarin that +-3 over under, does that mean we can do say, VC and K-scale samples and still be able to have a good shot at EnShPr and weapon samples?
Hmmm. Okay we're definitely gonna wanna do trading out Variable Config and I feel like we should grab the energy shard thing if just because we might be able to figure out a sort of on-demand resupply method in fights.
Constructing a full on Enclave, although daunting, would also let us easily grab energy weapon samples AND possibly open up some other options for us down the line.
Maybe tack on K-Scale for their Anti-grav tech in the bargain so we're at a nice, neutral 0? Opens up some tech options for us and possibly allows our new Kausen buddies a means of striking back against the Kaiju if the bad guys pull a villainous alliance type shenanigan.
[X] Plan Give All But Kaijiu
-[X] Variable Configuration (6) - He's made it clear that this is what he wants, and isn't shy about announcing it. Presumably, Cavalier has already mentioned it to him, and he's likely seen a few examples of the Jackal already. Costs no RP to offer the plans.
-[X] Modify a Kaus (4) - Offer for your Engineers to assist in modifying a Legionnaire as a test case for Variable Configuration. This would be strictly supervised by Patch, but this goes over well as a sign of good faith. This will become a Special Action that you must invest in within five turns. Will cost 2 RP.
-[X] Construct Legio Galbinus Enclave (7) - Mutually exclusive with Basing Rights. Why not go one step further? Offer to help them construct an actual base of operations. The old adage of where to keep friends and enemies and all that...Galbinus is frankly shocked you'd go this far, but he sounds very grateful for the idea. This will become a Special Action that you must invest in within five turns. Will cost 3 RP to start digging up room underground...or wherever they want to set themselves up.
-[X] Energy Shard Processing (6) - Galbinus personally doesn't see why you want this, and it's understandable that he's a bit leery of sharing this technology. But for you, this actually has the potential to solve some resource problems for you...but if the Free Brothers catch wind of it, they may try their luck in attacking you.
-[X] Kaus Energy Weapon Samples (5) - Galbinus can see the appeal behind offering intact samples of Kausen Energy Weapons. He's willing to part with some of them if you want. This is what he is expecting you to want to trade for.
-[X] Kaus Anti-Gravity (4) - Galbinus admits that this is experimental even for them, and doesn't exactly work half the time. But when you combine it with flight systems (such as Bandit's getaway glider did), it can be quite potent. It has your interest.
I'd prefer not to give them kaijiu since it could well be a poison pill(for us its armor plating on equipment, for them its integrated to their bodies if they use it), but other than that, all on the table...we got K-Scale so the armor is lesser and the Dispersion Field is not usable yet. This gives us a favorable trade balance as well.
Energy shard wise, the Free Brothers are going to fight us regardless, I see no problems.
[X] Plan: The backlog hungers
-[X] Variable Configuration (6)
-[X] Modify a Kaus (4)
-[X] Construct Legio Galbinus Enclave (7)
-[X] Energy Shard Processing (-6)
-[X] Kaus Anti-Gravity (-4)
-[X] Kaus Armor Plating (-4)
-[X] Dispersion Field Technology - Incomplete Plans (3)
Net Balance: 0 (Fair Trade)
This gets us everything we didn't get from the Bandit Encounter, without surrendering anything we are not authorized to surrender. We can leverage most of this very nicely, as they cover niches we didn't previously have easy access to.
It's RP expensive in the short term, but valuable in the extreme for how it closes gaps in our future arsenal.
edit: @ Basarin that +-3 over under, does that mean we can do say, VC and K-scale samples and still be able to have a good shot at EnShPr and weapon samples?
