The Reluctant Vassal's Guide to Living in the Frontier (with some Treason)

Celeshiro · Apr 6, 2024

[X] Plan Start building destroyers and damn the cost!
-[X] [Character] Violet d'Iris, Solar Princess
--[X] [Task] [Stewardship] Construct Chain.
---[X] [Target] New Helm
----[X] Void Drydock.
-----[X] Destroyers
-[X] [Officer] Kat, Hyacinth Prism
--[X] [Task] [Stewardship] Construct Chain.
---[X] [Target] New Helm
----[X] Void Drydock.
-----[X] Destroyers
-[X] [Officer] Radana, Camellia Knight
--[X] [Task] [Learning] Outfit Troops.
---[X] [Target] Infantry.

It was a strange thing, Radana reflected, to be calmly sipping tea to the tune of live fire weaponry. The noise and smell of gunpowder filled the air while design prototypes were marched out one by one from the various design companies eagerly competing to have their weapon selected as the government's preferred weapon in the hands of soldiers. The representatives of said firms along with a few other notables were too seated around a table, enjoying a cup of brewed fire blossom tea and watching the exhibition.

The Camellia Knight recalled reading in the sacred texts about how once, such an activity would take place on actual battlefields on ancient Terra. For a moment, she tried to imagine it so, trying to nonchalantly try to drink and hold a social gathering while soldiers on both sides were cut down where they were, screaming for help. Her fingers tightened slightly around the handle of the porcelain cup, her circuits flashing briefly. No, no she couldn't imagine it so.

Because then, Radana couldn't live with herself if she wasn't too on the field, trying to help however she could, limited as her fighting ability was.

The fantasy passed and she calmly exhaled, gently lowering her drink just in time to notice the others staring intently at her. Oh dear, had she missed out on something? Well-honed etiquette helped cover up the flush of embarrassment and she instead put a measured smile, one that was carefully meant to suggest a note of innocence without truly meaning it. It was probably the expression that her best friend used all the time. "I apologize, but my station does not expose me often to the realities of the battlefield. Nor am I well-versed in the deep and complicated history of warfare, in which case I must defer to learned experienced specialists such as yourself."

Judging by the surge of confidence in the others' eyes, that had absolutely been the right thing to say. Radana occupied her lips with another sip to hide the slight grin, practically feeling her childhood friend kicking her under the table with a knowing look. However, this time she listened more intently to what the others were debating, not wanting to be caught off guard again. "In such case, we can hardly fault our elegant host for such inexperience," One of the gathered declared firmly, supporting her seeming naivety. "If anything, the willingness to admit one's lack of real battlefield experience is to be applauded, as such controlled environments are hardly comparable to the chaos of real war."

"Then if I may, having formerly served and fought in His Late Majesty's forces?" Another spoke, one who did have the weathered but unbroken look of a retired veteran. Radana knew this to be the truth, this particular spokesperson having supposedly retired from the military for a cushy lobbying job according to the gossip vine. So she let him speak with a nod of the head. "Thank you. Today, we shouldn't just be comparing raw performance numbers with our weapons in the hands of those with sharpest eyes among the Brilliance Knights. Instead, we need to think instead about the lowest denomination in our ranks, that scared private rifleman just signing up to try and get military benefits but now thrown into a real battle."

"It certainly isn't the most glamorous look, but it's true," One from a rival company reluctantly admitted. "Even if we provide the very best in training and put them through numerous war games, it's still a far cry from what they could actually see when the safeties are off."

There was a single tilt of the head in acknowledgment. "Indeed. So, speaking as a veteran if I may, I don't care what my gun's exact specifications are as advertised by a salesperson. All I want to know is if it'll save my life out there."

"An enlightening point of view," Radana praised and reached out to top up the tea cups, a subtle but welcomed gesture. "From what I have been described then, it is best that we do not evaluate based on pure performance, but rather what our brave patriots on the field need."

"Exactly. So let us then consider the infantry's role." They stopped, then turned to a competing firm with a reluctant nod. "Though loath as I am to admit, perhaps one far more well-versed in the actual study of the role would offer greater insight than the one on the ground."

Radana studied the indicated individual and recalled them to be an expert in military history, one with quite a high profile that had seen them grace many a high gathering. She allowed them to rise now but kept the veteran in mind, wanting to temper theory and practice together. "Thank you for your deference in the subject matter. Please allow me to be blunt." A pause, then a harsh truth was spoken. "The role of infantry is be the anvil of numbers, one that is meant to weather harsh losses but keep marching in spite of it. They are fodder on the battlefield, the masses of our armed forces meant to take hits for more valuable units."

The veteran's jaw clenched but nothing was said. It didn't need to, especially when the Camellia Knight gave an acknowledging nod their way and raised her voice to moderate. "Please remember that these are lives you are casually dismissing. A loss of an individual is a tragedy, but a loss of multiple can quickly turn into an unsympathetic statistic."

"...I see. I will keep that in mind." They took a minute to regather their thoughts, then continued speaking. "In fact, while I may have just sounded rather callous and rude just now, it should never be underestimated the potential for an infantry battalion to achieve high glory in combat. In which case then, it is not just a triumph for them, but a triumph to all their colleagues."

"Much better," The veteran grumbled and patted their chest. "We can't understand whatever tactics high command puts out for us, only that we need to follow them. If we see the shot to victory, we'll take it, and damn whatever the higher ups want. In the name of those who pushed us forward while they stayed behind."

The socialite organizer nodded, pleased that a seeming consensus has been reached. Radana spoke then to catch all their attentions. "Then with those factors in mind, let us consider what we wish our brave soldiers shall be outfitted and trained in, all to fight and win on the Solar Princess' coin."

Infantry Base Stats
Strength: 100
Armor: 0
Movement: 3

Create an Outfit Kit!

[ ] Plan ____
-[ ] Main Weapon
-[ ] Specialist Weapon
-[ ] Utility
-[ ] [Name] ____ Infantry Kit
--[ ] Manufacturing Firm (Optional)

Choose a Main Weapon

-[ ] [Main Weapon] Terra Assault Rifle Mk1 A rugged assault rifle model that has ancient roots in Terran history, with incredible ruggedness and durability in majority of field conditions across the galaxy.

Range: 2
Attack: +20
Damage: 4

-[ ] [Main Weapon] Mars Battle Rifle Mk1 A model first developed for the harsher Martian climate, but since finding popularity as a long range infantry rifle.

Range: 3
Attack: +15
Damage: 3

None

Choose a Specialist Weapon

[ ] [Specialist Weapon] Pipe Anti-Tank Launcher Mk1 A simple tube quite reminiscent of a plumbing pipe can strike fear into armored foes.

Range: 3
Attack: +10
Damage: 5
Special: Target must have at least Armor 10. Armor saves from this weapon are reduced by -20.

-[ ] [Specialist Weapon] Seeker Anti-Air Launcher Mk1 Thermal sensors combined with visual guidance combine together to form a dangerously potent and reliable weapon against aerial targets.

Range: 4
Attack: +15
Damage: 4
Special: Aerial interception weapon. Will be used automatically when aircraft appears within range.

None

Choose a Utility

-[ ] [Utility] Medic Company Mk1 Increase the number and training of medical personnel in the unit, with basic triage ability for every individual to at least stem the bleeding until a medic can see to it.

Special: At the end of every round, this unit will regain 1d10 Strength. However, this cannot exceed 80% of a unit's overall Strength.

-[ ] [Utility] Drop Pod Mk1 Have the unit undergo extensive training to have the confidence to use special pods mounted on Pelicans to effectively disembark mid-air, announcing their arrival to the battlefield with a bang.

Special: Special Transport Phase effect. This unit cannot be hit with aerial interception from ground forces when being transported. However, they have a chance to land off their intended grid.

None

Finish it with a Name!
-[ ] [Name] ____ Infantry Kit
--[ ] Manufacturing Firm (Optional)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

- Decided to name the transport craft Pelicans. Lot of sci-fi settings have their transport craft named Pelicans, figured might as well get with the trend.
- If you decide to add in a manufacturing firm, I'll change the main weapon name to appropriately reflected it so. Lots of guns tend to just be the company's name, so it makes sense. Or if you want to just rename the gun independently/keep it as is, just add it in the manufacturing blurb. Just don't pull a US Army and name everything the M1. I like to think that Violet shouldn't have an aneurysm at her age from trying to figure out which one her spies are talking about.

12 hour moratorium to name your rifle.

Celeshiro · Apr 9, 2024

Scheduled vote count started by Celeshiro on Apr 6, 2024 at 1:12 PM, finished with 15 posts and 11 votes.

9 people have voted
[X] Plan Area-denial (fancy-schmancy names)
-[X] [Main Weapon] Mars Battle Rifle Mk1 A model first developed for the harsher Martian climate, but since finding popularity as a long range infantry rifle.
-[X] [Specialist Weapon] Seeker Anti-Air Launcher Mk1 Thermal sensors combined with visual guidance combine together to form a dangerously potent and reliable weapon against aerial targets.
-[X] [Utility] Medic Company Mk1 Increase the number and training of medical personnel in the unit, with basic triage ability for every individual to at least stem the bleeding until a medic can see to it.
-[X] [Name] Lily Guard
--[x] Lily & Lily
- Lukepop
- Astartes
- wanje
- Axel Fones
- EclipsedStar
- trent8688
- Traveller76
- PieMan1994
- IcyBloodKatana
1 people have voted
[x] Plan: Semper Fi (Real)
-[x] [Main Weapon] Terra Assault Rifle Mk1
-[x] [Specialist Weapon] Pipe Anti-Tank Launcher Mk1
-[x] [Utility] Medic Company Mk1
-[x] Warden Infantry Kit
--[x] Lily & Lily
- Athinar
1 people have voted
[x] Plan Assault
- CrabTravelLLC

Celeshiro · Apr 11, 2024

[X] Plan Area-denial (fancy-schmancy names)
-[X] [Main Weapon] Mars Battle Rifle Mk1 A model first developed for the harsher Martian climate, but since finding popularity as a long range infantry rifle.
-[X] [Specialist Weapon] Seeker Anti-Air Launcher Mk1 Thermal sensors combined with visual guidance combine together to form a dangerously potent and reliable weapon against aerial targets.
-[X] [Utility] Medic Company Mk1 Increase the number and training of medical personnel in the unit, with basic triage ability for every individual to at least stem the bleeding until a medic can see to it.
-[X] [Name] Lily Guard
--[X] Lily & Lily

Finally, the discussion came to close and Radana smiled at the tentative agreement reached. She reviewed it now with a pleased nod. "The Lily Guard, hm. An infantry kit meant for general defense duties, particularly with their anti-air equipment. Most importantly, they'll be trained as well to recover from any losses during said defense." She could already see how very welcomed that would be when it came to fending off enemy assaults at range. "With such a name, I suppose there is only one we could entrust for production of the main weapon."

The representative from Lily & Lily swallowed nervously and nodded, wordlessly accepting the offered defense contract. More were issued out for the other parts of the kit, solemnly taken as the fruits of today's talks. But there were only so many and those who received nothing pursed their lips, already envisioning their impending reaming from their respective bosses at the failure to make a sale today. Some even looked quite disappointed, likely promised a cut through commission sales.

The Camellia Knight caught their downtrodden expressions and tapped her hand against the table reassuringly. "While I only have a few contracts to offer today, rest assured that your individual presentations have left me with good impressions of your respective firms. As such, keep your hopes up for perhaps more contracts to become available for even more fine competitions and discussions." That certainly perked a few of them up and she smiled. "Now then, let's finish off this fine pot of tea before ending our gathering so. Perhaps you would also like to exchange some interesting discussions?"

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Construct Post (Commercial Spaceport): 77 +7 (Dorothea) +12 (Wealth) = 96)

Progress: 6/4. Finished!

New Helm has built Commercial Spaceport.

Dorothea stepped back and took in the sight of the uniformed trade officers before her. It had taken a while to educate and train them all on the dangers of unchecked cargo, but now she was quite sure that all here would never dare let a merchant sell suspicious goods in the capital. Dare she say it, the Lycoris Knight was perhaps even proud when she watched them practice weaving red tape around problematic traders. "I've done my duty here and must move onto new assignments," She finally declared and pressed her fist to her chest in a salute. "Now, do your duty as well and protect our people. For House Iris."

"For House Iris!" They cheered as well and Dorothea made a mental note to see about seeing if she could offer their families a chance at the Brilliance Knights. Such wonderful loyalty would take them a long way.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Construct Chain (Void Drydock (Wisteria-class)): 67 +10 (Violet) +12 (Wealth) = 92)

Progress: 3/4. In Progress.

(Construct Chain (Void Drydock (Wisteria-class)): 23 +17 (Kat) +12 (Wealth) = 52)

Progress: 5/4. Finished!

You managed to slip away once the opening ceremony was finished, your cheeks aching from the fake smile you had plastered on during the entire event. Kat could handle the rest, her confident and foul-mouthed self now in charge at the familiar surroundings of a full-scale workshop around her in the orbital facility. She could handle all the attention coming her way from all the eager future workers, customers, and investors though the Solar Princess would have to return sooner or later for when questions about the government's possible purchases eventually came forth.

So you had to move quickly if your little jaunt to go unnoticed. You paid no heed at all to the security cameras decorated around the facility, knowing that they were not yet activated so. You had arranged for them to only turn on after the sensitivities were over. Similarly, you only briefly paused in front of the security door before it suddenly slid open without even needing an id keycard. This too was your doing, a security exploit that would glitch the door open to this exact timestamp in its lifetime.

Now, you approached the terminal inside the office and turned it on with a wave of your hand. It prompted you for a password that you already knew matched the administrator's birthday and favorite food, then you were into the database. It was a program that would track and log all ship purchases from this specific dockyard, keeping clear records of what ships were purchased by what buyer. Perfect.

A little virus injection, then now your own office could now remote access this information without anybody being any the wiser. The terminal was hurriedly powered down and you left the office a few steps later, the door sealing shut behind you later and locking down for sure this time. Now even you would need a keycard and your passage would be logged for security records, which was why you could do this only now. Hopefully though, the information you would harvest from this tap could prove useful.

Maybe you could make first claims now on whatever promising vessels came from this facility. It would certainly make the trouble of setting up all this exploits worth it. That meant that you left with a little happy whistle, one that was later mistaken by the various media reporters of the dockyard's opening to mean you were beyond pleased with how New Helm's first dockyard was going. Now you had to contend with pop tabloids about what your administration's first ship would be named.

You had to fight the urge to send the Lycoris Knights after such gossip publications. You'd have to settle for bugging their media networks instead. That actually proved to be an unexpected boon when you happened to intercept and redirect a certain video to your office for later.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Outfit Troops (Infantry): 81 +7 (Radana) +12 (Wealth) = 100)

Progress: 4/4. Finished!

However, before you could review whatever you happened to intercept, your best friend suddenly invited you to a tea party so, promising something quite interesting. You did already have an inkling of what it was going to be thanks to your information network, but you accepted without second thought and put viewing the video off for later. Perhaps you'd watch it with Radana instead.

But for now, you took a sip of the offered tea and felt some tension release from your shoulders at the familiar ritual. It was nice to slip back such a simple but welcomed activity, one that stemmed from when you were both just young kids. You examined the cup now and spoke your observation so. "Is this a new tea set? One locally made?'

"An apt and correct deduction," The Camellia Knight praised with a smile and ran a finger along her new teapot. "It was a gift from Lily & Lily as thanks for choosing them with an arms contract."

"And I assume then that little package with their label on it was another gift?" You teased and gave the large polymer case at Radana's feet a light tap. She laughed and reached down to hoist it up to pass to you. "Oh, you shouldn't have!" You told in a joking high falsetto and giggled a little giddily yourself as well.

The case was set onto the table and the latches undone to reveal the weapon cradled in foam within. You lifted it out and marveled at the feat of engineering in your hands, a sleek looking bullpup battle rifle with a profound sense of weight to it. "My. This is our new infantry rifle?" You considered and practiced taking aim with it, feeling it settle comfortably against your shoulder.

"Indeed. Here." Radana moved around to direct your attention to the manufacturing information stamped in the polymer shell. "The LLA4. Lily & Lily Andernia IV, our first homegrown battle rifle. Exciting, isn't it?'

"Very so, and I'll admit: you caught me by surprise with how quickly you went from planning to prototype." You plucked a magazine from the case and studied the caseless ammunition within. "I think even Kat would've taken longer if she was tasked to it. Did having the various firms work together really speed things up that much?"

"Really, nothing gets past you!" Your best friend exclaimed with a shake of the head. "You got it in one. While Lily & Lily did take center stage as the lead designers, having subject experts from the others contribute their expertise helped move things along quite quickly. There were more than a few awkward snubs, but nothing that a polite discussion with a pot of tea couldn't fix."

"I see. I suppose it also has nothing to do with having a masterful diplomat moderating such meetings," You casually added with a small chuckle. After a little bit more handling, you were satisfied and replaced all the prototype equipment back into the case. "I like it, it really does give you a sense that this will take a life when the trigger is pulled. Are the blueprints already in our system?"

"I believe they are uploading as we speak. So, we'll be able to figure out how much factory space we'll need soon." Radana hummed and helped to redo the latches. Then a mocking expression crossed her expression. "Oh, I just cannot wait to see your sister's reaction to our new creation. She must make do with subpar used guns, while our forces will soon be equipped with weapons straight from the factory."

"It is certainly a pleasing thought!" You agreed with your friend and placed the case below the table. Then you picked back up your cup and sipped at the cooling drink. "But remember that she'll eventually take command over these units when everything falls into place. So it won't be long before she can have these herself."

"But not before then?" The well-mannered woman cautiously asked and you shuddered.

"Certainly not. I don't want them to actually pose a danger to us at all, no matter whatever my sister comes up with." A pause, then you snapped your fingers. "Speaking of which, there was a video from her recently that was picked up by the media. I've intercepted and rerouted the signal to us, so we can have a chance to examine what it is before letting it through."

"Censorship? How scandalous," Radana drawled with a roll of the eyes. "Say it isn't so."

"Well, who knows? Perhaps it'll be a great speech from her that'll help pull people to her side! A few more of these, some more 'reassurances,' then I'll finally be able to shovel all this work to her!"

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

- Violet, when will you learn?

Celeshiro · Apr 12, 2024

The video finally came to an end and a prompt appeared, asking the two statues in the office if they were interested in rewinding and watching it again. To be quite honest, you really weren't interested in doing any of that. Rather, you would prefer for a third option to be made available and was so sorely tempted to ask the Prisms if it was possible.

To scrub your memory of you had just watched entirely from your mind, leaving only deep-seated regret of having even gazed upon the thing.

"They say that there is no such thing as forbidden knowledge," Radana slowly began, then gently lowered her head into her hands. "But I daresay there is such a thing as cursed knowledge now. What in Terra…?"

"I...I don't even know what to say." You settled on rubbing your temples with your fingers, half-praying that they would sink through flesh and bone alike to rip the accursed images from your mind. "Dearest sister, had you just stuck with the first part, I...no, I'd still have to lower my expectations for you once again for such a poor showing. But then to follow it up with a 'demonstration' of your new special forces is...special, alright.'

"I should be discouraging such language, but I feel you unfortunately- and rather accurately- captured what we have witnessed in the most generous manner possible." Your childhood friend had a clear distraught expression on her face and looked ready to weep. "Dark as it may sound, but I'm almost glad His Late Highness was not here to witness such a travesty of House Iris. Were it to actually become widespread, the shame associated with the name would linger for generations to come."

"Which is why we can't just release this!" You hissed and quickly opened your terminal to check your information taps. "Ah, but damn. The media stations did log receiving the video, and they think it's still downloading and unzipping. They even have the expected file size and duration, so we don't have long to quickly throw together a better edit of it all."

"Could we not declare there was no such message?" Radana frantically asked. "Or one that we had to confiscate for the sake of public safety? Dorothea surely would be willing to aid in this deception."

"We can't. It'll alert them to the fact that I have access to their systems, and I'm not giving that up!" You chewed your lip and made a swift decision, your fingers already bringing up the necessary terminal programs. "Nothing to it, we'll have to do a quick edit. Just a quick crop, then fill the rest with blank runtime to pad out the video to make it look like it just didn't go through or was corrupted in the process."

"It'll be awkward I think," Your aide warned, moving to watch your work. "From what I understand, they really don't like dead time but neither can they crop the video themselves. Not without opening themselves up to serious accusations about trying to manipulate its contents."

"They'll find something to fill in the time, maybe just run a background commercial or something to that effect," You reassured with a shrug and watched your program package the newly censored file. Now it would be sent and disseminated through the media networks in Andernia for them to air on their own, unaware that it had been modified from the original. "Just whatever we do, we cannot allow that second part to air. Not if we don't want my sister to become a laughingstock before she gets put into power."

"Perhaps we should...strongly advise her to reconsider what she considers to be 'well-trained elite soldiers.' I'm not quite sure that circus shows or auto-tune singing should fall in said category."

"Maybe for some other people, but not House Iris. I can only hope that the edit will be gentle on my sister's reputation."

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Greetings, citizens of Andernia." The appointed steward of the colony system put on a faint smile, one with a slightly haughty expression to accompany. "I apologize for chaos and confusion that you may have suffered in wake of our fleet's tragedy, but I encourage you to take heart in your continued survival. That in spite of having no real direct leadership, you have still managed to found and build a life out here. That is good. That is welcomed. Continue to do so.

"Just be aware that with the dust settled, I am now moving to take a more proactive role in managing the system," She declared without hesitation. "So if you see those bearing my emblem, I strongly encourage complying with their orders for your safety and well-being. Remember that those with my blessing act for the greater good of us all, so all you need do is either stand out of their way or even aid them so. I would...encourage against trying to bar their way or interfere with their essential work.

"I am disappointed to hear that already, some have indeed failed to heed such directions to allow them to handle the danger. More critically, I am worried when I hear word of such lawlessness beginning to spread in some communities." She gave a heavy sigh filled with exasperation and sorrow. "I regret it has come to such, but needs must. Believe me when I say I would rather discuss and showcase our great financial success or reveal exciting new products to improve our quality of life, yet my hand is forced by your upstart neighbor. We have no other choice and simply ask for your assistance in restoring unity.

"I hereby announce the creation of a peacekeeping force to quell these dissidents, and am even more pleased to reveal it is already fully trained. Elite soldiers armed with the finest supplied by generous donations from communities in need of such protection! Please, rest assured that these brave heroes will work ceaselessly until the emergency situation." Her lips pulled back to reveal her shining teeth and her hand gestured to the side. The camera feed cut a moment later, indicating the seeming end of the video.

A moment later, the video was minimized and put on the upper right corner of the screen as a background while something else took center stage. It was repeat footage taken from the opening of the Void Drydock in New Helm, specifically showing a different Solar Princess now speaking from a podium at a crowd of flashing reporters. "Today marks the beginning of a new era of military rearmament for House Iris, one that I do not undertake lightly. In fact, I would rather we never have to at all, for when we prepare for war, it is only a matter of time until our paranoia will come into conflict with one another.

"But at the same time, we must in order to preserve the peace that we have. Ideals are nothing without strength. Strength is tyranny without ideals," Violet d'Iris declared with a somber expression. "As Helmsmen, we should understand this better than most. So let us remember: it is in our oaths that we are given strength. It is in strength that we preserve our way of life. And it is our way of life that we wish to protect with our oaths.

"It matters not if you are a Brilliance Knight or Lily Guard. Remember your vows and remember what you fight for. Only then can you go to battle with your heart and mind clear, ready to fight for a cause worth it," She finished and there is a loud cheer from the enthralled audience then, one that was gently reduced by the news channel. A moment later, then the entire screen was wiped to reveal a set of interested evening news hosts.

"Well, there you have it folks," One of them began with a perfect smile to the camera. "It seems that if you don't trust our 'governor,' you can certainly put your trust her sister instead! My, what a stirring speech. Maybe I shouldn't be so worried when my daughter announced she was talking with a recruiter. House Iris will look after her."

Resource Stockpile: 30/30

Create a plan that you and your aides will execute over the duration of the cycle. Each person will have a general order that they will attempt to carry out at your command. Orders can be repeatedly taken by multiple characters for greater progression, but characters will be locked in the order until it is finished. Many actions will require a target.

[ ] Plan ____
-[ ] [Character] ______
--[ ] [Task] ________
---[ ] [Target] _____
-[ ] [Officer] ______
--[ ] [Task] ________
---[ ] [Target] _____

-[ ] [Character] Violet d'Iris, Solar Princess

-[ ] [Character] Radana, Camellia Knight

-[ ] [Character] Kat, Hyacinth Prism

-[ ] [Character] Dorothea, Lycoris Knight

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

--[ ] [Martial] Commission Ship. Reach out to the dockyards and purchase or order a new ship to join your fleets. Cost varies.
---Requires Berth Location
----Requires Ship Class/Name

---[ ] Wisteria-class Destroyer. A fast moving escort destroyer that can pack a surprising punch from afar. Requires Void Drydock (Wisteria-class). Requires three (3) progress.

There are currently no diplomacy tasks available.

--[ ] [Stewardship] Develop City. Expand the outreaches of the urban jungle, developing infrastructure and encouraging greater urban incorporation to grow a settlement taller. Increase Industry by one (1). Requires two (2) progress.
---[ ] Requires Target City

--[ ] [Stewardship] Found City. Put forward a concentrated effort to unite previously distant rural communities into a new joint union capable of supporting a concentrated industrial effort. Found a new city that increases Industry by five (5). Requires four (4) progress.
---[ ] Requires Target Location
---[ ] Requires New City name

--[ ] [Stewardship] Construct Chain. Meet with contractors and build a new specific industry in the system. Cost varies. Each building chain may only be built once per system.
---[ ] Requires Target City
----[ ] Requires Building Choice

----[ ] Data Reliquary. The signature monument of the Helmsmen, a testament to their perceived duty to preserving information at all costs if the worst should ever come. The information kept below is reflected in the grandeur above, with only those ordained with the greatest duties able to access the sacred archives unfiltered. Increases Influence by ten (10). Requires two (2) progress. This building must be constructed first before all others in every system of House Iris.

----[ ] Chrysanthemum Scales. A regal and ornate building that serves as the system's headquarters for marketplace and trade officers. It is staffed by a mix of Brilliance Knights and Prisms suited for administrative duties, using their Solarium circuits to process incoming information quicker and come up with streamlined delivery chains to ensure a healthy marketplace for the people. Increases Wealth by eight (8). Decreases Resources by four (4). Requires four (4) progress.

----[ ] Lycoris Sanctuary. The Lycoris Knights are those Brilliance Knights who help maintain public order, acting as both counselors and confessors for those in need. This also makes them quite keen on what the public currently feel is most pressing, and so what will best appeal to them. Increases Influence by ten (10). Decreases Wealth by four (4). Requires four (4) progress.

----[ ] Arms Facility. Glowing sparks of industry fly between these interconnected factories, an ever hungering machine that consumes raw material to process and refine into tools of war. Already while the metals cool, the air is filled with the cries of soldiers being put through proficiency training to use these weapons fresh from the forge. It is a well-oiled union that fuels the fires of the defense industry.
Benefits and costs varies. Enables recruitment for specified troop kit. This may be taken multiple times with different specializations.
-----[ ] Requires Named Troop Outfit

Infantry: Increases Military by four (4). Decrease Resources and Wealth by four (4). Requires four (4) progress.

----[ ] Void Drydock. In order to maximize production and streamline the process, it is best if large voidships are actually built in the vacuum of space, or as close as possible to it. The orbit around a planet is an ideal spot for such a task, especially when paired with a space elevator on the ground to facilitate efficient resource from planetside. Should this link be cut off, the facility grinds to a halt. Benefits and costs varies. Enables recruitment for specified ship class. This may be taken multiple times with different specializations.
-----[ ] Requires Named Ship Class

Destroyers: Increases Military by four (4). Decrease Resources and Wealth by four (4). Requires four (4) progress.

-----[ ] Star Armory. The allure of grand fortifications remains strong even when among the stars, so the technique has simply been refined and adapted to suit the needs of modern war. It is on a larger scale than any similar structure that may have once existed on ancient Terra, a necessary adjustment to accommodate the more vast nature of stellar warfare. It is not unusual for an entire community to spring up around such a base to do business with those quartered within. Increases Military by six (6). Decreases Wealth and Influence by six (6). Housing for three (3) regiments. Berth for one (1) destroyer. Basing for one (1) wing. Requires six (6) progress.

-----[ ] Fleet Port. What can be easily mistaken for construction around natural formations is actually purposefully shaped to accommodate for the planned housing of enormous ships meant to cross the void of space. Even when the star sailors onboard rest, the dock workers are awaken performing necessary maintenance and repairs in preparation for the next voyage. Increases Military by six (6). Decreases Wealth and Influence by six (6). Housing for one (1) regiment. Berth for two (2) cruisers and one (1) destroyer. Basing for one (1) wing. Requires six (6) progress.

--[ ] [Stewardship] Construct Post. Utilize some empty space in a city to build an independent facility. Cost varies. Each building post may only be built once per city.
---[ ] Requires Target City
----[ ] Requires Building Choice

----[ ] Sunrise Bank. Accounts now guaranteed under government-subsidized insurance! Open an account today, withdraw your money a galaxy away! Increases Wealth by two (2). Decreases Resources by two (2). Requires four (4) progress.

----[ ] Camp Barracks. It is one thing to be willing to kill for a cause, but it is here where the willingness to die for a cause is born and tempered. Today's sacrifices are the heroes of tomorrow. Increases Military by two (2). Decreases Wealth and Influence by two (2). Berth for one (1) regiment. Requires three (3) progress.

----[ ] Commercial Spaceport. Under the United Empire common law, no trader that does not posses hostile, hazardous, or forbidden material is to be turned away. They are to be allowed to ply their wares as they see fit, though local oversight is certainly permitted. Increases Military by two (2). Decreases Wealth and Influence by two (2). Berth for two (2) destroyers or one (1) cruiser. Requires four (4) progress.

--[ ] [Intrigue] Infiltrate Cells. Plant the seeds now for future spycraft opportunities by establishing local support and cover opportunities to slip agents hidden among the populace. Create a spy network in another power. Requires four (4) progress. Further sabotage options require this option first.
---[ ] Requires Target Faction

--[ ] [Intrigue] Cause Unrest. Instruct your cells to purposefully cause chaos in another power, drawing attention away from whatever other covert operations you have orchestrated at the same time. Reduces the chance of discovery on the turn it completes. Requires four (4) progress.
---[ ] Requires Target Faction (Must have Infiltrate Cells)

--[ ] [Intrigue] Send Spies. Have sharp-eyed spies pass through a rival power, using existing cells to help provide a cover for the experts to work and deduce what the enemy is doing now. Discover what primary action another power is focusing on. Requires one (1) progress. Has a low chance for discovery.
---[ ] Requires Target Faction (Must have Infiltrate Cells)

--[ ] [Intrigue] Military Espionage. Direct agents to circumvent security systems and access classified military information to pass onto you, a highly risky but priceless operation. Reveals a power's military composition and current numbers. Requires six (6) progress. Has a moderate chance for discovery.
---[ ] Requires Target Faction (Must have Infiltrate Cells)

--[ ] [Learning] Outfit Troops. Consider what the gear your soldiers carry into battle, and create a new outfit for the boots on the ground to equip themselves with. Cost varies.
---[ ] Requires Troop Unit

---[ ] Infantry. The very basic, but essential, foot soldiers that both take and occupy ground when ordered so. Even with mechanized transports, they move fairly slowly around on the battlefield but when it comes to holding the line, their numbers help absorb dire hits. Requires four (4) progress.
---[ ] Artillery. When more finesse is needed on the battlefield, it is the role of land artillery units to provide. They can bring some of the biggest guns of an army's arsenal to bear to flatten terrain and eradicate any remaining resistance from dug-in units. However, this comes at the price of being incredibly fragile and vulnerable themselves. Requires five (5) progress.
---[ ] Mechanized. Quick and fast fighting vehicles tear across the battlefield at lightning speeds, launching surprise attacks wherever gaps present themselves. While their weapons bark away at the enemy, the doors come slamming open to unload the infantry squads within to aid in the assault or begin already digging in. Speed is key for all in the unit. Requires five (5) progress.

--[ ] [Learning] Design Ship. Break out pencils and call up interested naval contractors to kickstart the race to create, prototype, and sell an entirely new spaceship design for your forces. Cost varies.
---[ ] Requires Ship Types

---[ ] Destroyer. The smallest of notable navy vessels, but vital for domination of local space along and necessary for group troop transports. Requires four (4) progress.
---[ ] Cruiser. Large voidships that traverse the stars and make up the bulk of any fleet that crosses systems. Requires six (6) progress.

--[ ] [Learning] Design Aircraft. Defense contractors all but salivate at the call to design a new generation of fighter craft, the chance to leave their brand across the galaxy be it on planets or in space. Requires six (6) progress.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

- You have unlocked your first martial action! Note that for recruiting your first ship, it's going to be formatted as HMS Wisteria (Wisteria-class) as an example. Wisteria herself (the prototype) will be available if you want to pick her up now. Similarly, berth location is for example New Helm (Commercial Spaceport).
- You've unlocked a few buildings for ground troops as well, so make sure you poke at them. Be sure to remember you need to build a new chain first for the Lily Guard kits, you do have room for one more chain in Andernia so far.
- There's some new troop types now available for design if you want to further expand your options before making your first regiment. Up to ya.
- Your sister has revealed that she has at least one army troop under her. Up to you to decide if it's credible or not.

14 hour moratorium to come up with a cycle plan.

Celeshiro · Apr 14, 2024

I still have an art bug biting me, and before I knew it, I had turned this from basic sketch into full color. Have what Violet could look like when she's dressed up for fancy social functions. Armor, still a WIP.

You know that beneath that polite smile, she's screaming about having to socialize.

Celeshiro · Apr 15, 2024

Scheduled vote count started by Celeshiro on Apr 12, 2024 at 1:57 AM, finished with 22 posts and 6 votes.

6 people have voted
[X] Plan It ain't much, but it's (dis)honest work.
-[X] [Character] Violet d'Iris, Solar Princess
--[X] [Intrigue] Military Espionage. Direct agents to circumvent security systems and access classified military information to pass onto you, a highly risky but priceless operation. Reveals a power's military composition and current numbers. Requires six (6) progress. Has a moderate chance for discovery.
---[X] House Iris Separatists
-[X] [Officer] Dorothea, Lycoris Knight
--[X] [Martial] Commission Ship. Reach out to the dockyards and purchase or order a new ship to join your fleets. Cost varies.
---[X] New Helm (Commercial Spaceport)
----[X] HMS Wisteria (Wisteria-class)
-[X] [Officer] Kat, Hyacinth Prism
--[X] [Stewardship] Construct Post. Utilize some empty space in a city to build an independent facility. Cost varies. Each building post may only be built once per city.
---[X] Pendragon
----[X] Sunrise Bank. Accounts now guaranteed under government-subsidized insurance! Open an account today, withdraw your money a galaxy away! Increases Wealth by two (2). Decreases Resources by two (2). Requires four (4) progress.
-[X] [Officer] Radana, Camellia Knight
--[X] [Stewardship] Construct Post.
----[X] Sunrise Bank.

Celeshiro · Apr 16, 2024

[X] Plan It ain't much, but it's (dis)honest work.
-[X] [Character] Violet d'Iris, Solar Princess
--[X] [Intrigue] Military Espionage. Direct agents to circumvent security systems and access classified military information to pass onto you, a highly risky but priceless operation. Reveals a power's military composition and current numbers. Requires six (6) progress. Has a moderate chance for discovery.
---[X] House Iris Separatists
-[X] [Officer] Dorothea, Lycoris Knight
--[X] [Martial] Commission Ship. Reach out to the dockyards and purchase or order a new ship to join your fleets. Cost varies.
---[X] New Helm (Commercial Spaceport)
----[X] HMS Wisteria (Wisteria-class)
-[X] [Officer] Kat, Hyacinth Prism
--[X] [Stewardship] Construct Post. Utilize some empty space in a city to build an independent facility. Cost varies. Each building post may only be built once per city.
---[X] Pendragon
----[X] Sunrise Bank. Accounts now guaranteed under government-subsidized insurance! Open an account today, withdraw your money a galaxy away! Increases Wealth by two (2). Decreases Resources by two (2). Requires four (4) progress.
-[X] [Officer] Radana, Camellia Knight
--[X] [Stewardship] Construct Post.
---[X] Pendragon
----[X] Sunrise Bank.

(Construct Post (Sunrise Bank): 49 +17 (Kat) +7 (Wealth) = 73)

Progress: 2/4. In Progress.

(Construct Post (Sunrise Bank): 58 +7 (Radana) +7 (Wealth) = 72)

Progress: 4/4. Completed!

Pendragon has built Sunrise Bank.

Kat managed to somehow mumble out her thanks before beating a hasty retreat, looking so embarrassed and awkward. Radana watched her colleague frantically exit the newly opened business and softly sighed. She supposed it was a little too much to ask the notoriously shy Prism to try publicly opening an account to show off its banking features and help in attracting new clients. The Solar Princess would have to settle with how much Kat contributed to making a secured back end for safe financial bookkeeping.

So it was in her place that the Camellia Knight stepped up next and narrated her own experience with creating a new account, one that was very conspicuously blank for the sake of this demonstration. The bank teller was relieved with how much more well-spoken and open their new client was, which encouraged them to put on their own best face for the camera. Eventually, they reached the end of the recording that had Radana encouraging to the lens about the secured professional services of Sunrise Banking, hopefully enticing some more skeptical citizens to at least give the institution a try.

When the film light faded, Radana nodded, then turned back to the teller. "If you don't mind, I'd like to actually open up a new account now then. A proper one now, not the dummy."

"Of course." They paused and their eyes flicked upwards. "Though, you understand that at the moment, as our systems are still unable to connect with more centralized servers in the Core, we cannot link your new and old accounts together."

"I am indeed aware. Kat spent a few days complaining about it incessantly, and quite vigorously at that." The refined diplomat frowned and put a finger against her lip. "In the end, she wasn't able to crack even a workaround and from what I gather, the next step is directly having a poke at the FTL beacon itself. That would be quite the escalation."

"That sounds...worrying," The bank employee admitted, a flash of fear breaking through their professional mask in the moment. To imagine that they truly were alone out in this vast galaxy, it was a terrifying thought.

But Radana knew exactly what to say now, following up on her previous statement with a reassuring smile. "Our Prisms have already taken into account the possibility of a simple programming error, and are dutifully going through our records to identify the cause along with the fix," She let slip in a staged whisper. "So do not fret. Even in the worst case scenario, if we are forced to replace the entire device- we can do it. We will reach out and connect to the greater universe beyond, one step at a time."

The teller took in a shaky breath, one that helped settle and calm them down. The mention of past knowledge surfacing to aid the future resonated with their heritage, the sacred beliefs of the Helmsmen providing a strong anchor. "Y-you're right. One step at a time. One day at a time. One client at a time." Another moment to reform their professional mask, then they smiled. "Then let us do all we can to make sure the account you create today will have a smooth transition and linking to whatever previous accounts you may have once had."

"I would hope so, else I will have to cut down on the pastries served with tea." Radana visibly shuddered, her own masking falling off for a moment. "The horror."

"...er, I see. Now then, let's just begin with your documentation…."

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Military Espionage (House Iris Separatists): 79 +18 (Violet) +7 (Wealth) = 104)

Progress: 4/6. In Progress.

Even in the vast gap of time ever since humans left Terra for the stars alongside the multitude of advancements in digital technology, paper has continued to endure as a medium for transcription. It is a shocking and surprising fact to some, especially those who grew up with computers at their literal fingertips from birth. Why would humanity ever continue to use this flimsy and wasteful material when they could simply have it all easily accessible via a data cloud?

Honestly, there were a variety of reasons. Some preferred to feel the weight of ink and parchment in their hands, to feel the burden of the knowledge kept within pages of books. Others cite how much more easily accessible paper was in comparison to digital networks, especially in less developed or industrialized settings. They were onto something, you reckoned, but there was also another reason you would tack onto yourself.

It was possible to hack digital databases and steal the knowledge within. It was far harder to do so with physical papers.

So, that's why you preferred your reports in paper if you could help it, especially when it came to very sensitive information about your schemes. However, when it arrived, there was always a chance it could get lost in your rat's nest of a desk despite your excellent talent in seemingly plucking what you needed at the exact moment it was called for. Plus, it would ruin your organization system (or what passed for it) if you had to go diving for said reports every so often for reference study.

Thus, when it came to building up your little plots, you preferred a much more visceral and satisfying way of properly linking together your papers.

Surprisingly, there was still a market for bulletin boards, likely for rural communities that had very little in the way of electronic access but wanted to still maintain tight-knit local bonds. Or perhaps it was still a staple in office settings across the galaxy, meant to be filled with posters of local events dating years back. Either way, it meant that it was child's play to obtain a supply of such boards for your purpose, alongside the necessary natural accessories: pushpins, and purple string.

You took one such thumb tack now and grabbed the top document from your fresh stack of papers. You firmly pressed the printout against board with one hand, then the other was used to drive in the sharpened point into the synthetic cork to seal the pin in. Once you were sure it was done, you stepped back and took in the neutral photograph of your sister at the center of the bulletin board. It was plain and simple at the moment, but you knew in the near future, the pin holding her portrait up would become a web of purple strings linking to other papers, other documents, other information that would create the shadowy perfect weave you so excelled in. A conspiracy board of madness, as your best friend so bluntly put it.

It spoke volumes about how unashamedly and almost proudly you were at the title. You turned back now to the stack of papers and rolled your shoulders, warming them up for a long session of reading, pinning, and linking evidence together. Now to figure out what your sister was really up to with that 'demonstration' of her armed forces.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Commission Ship (HMS Wisteria): 76 +14 (Dorothea) +7 (Wealth) = 97)

Progress: 3/3. Completed!

HMS Wisteria has been commissioned in New Helm (Commercial Spaceport).

Dorothea made noise of satisfied agreement and passed back the datapad with the sale terms. "That is an acceptable price. The Solar Princess will be more than happy to pay the amount so."

"Then it's a sale." With a press of the contractor's thumb against the panel to the side, the transfer agreement was locked in. Now the file bounced up into the corporate servers of the dockyard's current owners to formally sign off on, completely ceding ownership of Wisteria over to House Iris. The formerly prototype destroyer was now federal property in totality. "I have to say though, there's going to be a lot of disappointed folks out there."

"Oh? Was she in that high demand?"

"Considering she's the first of her class? Always going to be an intense competition. There's even been chitchat about a bidding war between some private individuals or firms wanting the prestige of it so." The contractor shrugged and nodded at the amused Lycoris Knight. "But terms are terms, and since it came from you first, you have first go at it. For a fair price, of course."

"Naturally so," Dorothea insisted with a serious bob of the head. "Do not think my lady would ever dare be so miserly about good work."

"Your lady…" Their voice trailed off and they turned to glance outside the office window, to where the ship of the hour was being outfitted for the last time by the dockworkers. In particular, attention was given to the way they delicately painted the vessel's new affix to symbolize her formal commissioning. "I don't think you need a reminder at all, but HMS can mean a lot of things you know?"

"I am aware, but please," Dorothea made a knowing smile." Enlighten me anyway."

"Helm Meteor Ship. Helmsmen Ship." The salesperson's eyes met with the peacekeeper's gaze. "His Majesty's Ship.

"Her Majesty's Ship. Is your lady really going to keep to her title as is?"

Dorothea closed her eyes and let out a little exhale of breath, considering her answer. "I don't have any sort of information to share about that right now," She finally told with a firm expression. "Perhaps she simply wishes to honor His Majesty. Or perhaps she has grander plans that neither you or I could comprehend. Regardless, I will stay at her side for whatever she chooses."

"You better let her know that a lot of us will as well. Better the upstart than the wicked."

"I will pretend I did not hear such damaging statements against our rightfully chosen governor. Only that you stand with the true House Iris."

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

- The question is now if Violet's more a Holmes, or more a Moriarty sort of individual. I'm leaning towards the latter.

Celeshiro · Apr 17, 2024

"Ah. You've fallen into your bad habits again."

"It's not a bad habit, it's how I work my best work!" You squawked and protectively threw your arms over your bulletin board of paper, thumbtacks, and string. "I plot grand conspiracies from these machinations, ones capable of sowing discord and toppling governments! You yourself have surely borne witness to the fruit of my dark making-!"

"The last time I saw you use one of these, it was to orchestrate the old palace's dinner schedule to feature your favorite desert six weeks in a row," Your best friend reminded exasperatedly, already moving to the small kitchenette to help create a pot of tea to cope. "You didn't even get into week four before His Late Majesty noticed and commented on the oddity, ruining it all when the cooks redid everything."

"Goes to show that the only one who could ever best my plots was none other than my sire. Plus, it was still three weeks of that intoxicating velvet cake- don't you dare laugh!" You sputtered with red cheeks at the giggling Brilliance Knight. "You benefited as well, did you not?! As payment for services rendered!"

"I suppose that it is true- you somehow managed to get that rare tea blend that was quite soothing," Radana admitted with an acknowledging nod. Once the pot was finished brewing, she set it and the other teatime necessities onto a tray and crossed over into your office, where you waved for it to be set on your desk. "Now then, take a break and tell me what you're plotting this time."

"Oh, now you're interested?" You drawled while picking up a finger sandwich to chomp on, admittedly slightly hungry. "Ahem. I'm only just trying to have a look behind whatever curtain my sister is putting up. You and I both know that her little speech was only one aspect to her attempted public appeal."

"Of course I haven't forgotten the second part. I don't think I can, despite my best efforts." There was a pause, then Radana's eyes narrowed when she saw the familiar contemplative look on your face. "You think there's more to it than just a bread and circus act."

"I really do. For all the dumb ideas that my sister's been unfortunately doing as of late, she wouldn't just put up such a pretty display without reason. In fact, she'd probably consider it wasteful if it were only that." You shook the crumbs off your finger and approached your conspiracy board. A finger reached up and ran along a purple string that linked your sibling to a successful entertainment venture she had invested in back on Helm. "No, see here. She's got teeth and knows how to maximize smoke and mirrors."

Radana followed the string along to the next connection from this branch and blinked in surprise. "What? I remember this when it broke out on the news back on Helm! That entire scandal about these movies with ridiculous budgets, but ending up looking like amateur projects in the end. Little wonder why they were apparently financial flops."

"Or were they?" You quietly pointed out and directed your aide to several receipts. "Have a look. They all seem to be eager patrons of a certain entertainment venture that was supposed to provide all the props, special effects, and whatever else you typically would spend all that budget on. They paid extravagant prices for these packages, only to be seemingly satisfied with subpar production quality."

"...it was all disguised bribes," Radana realized, her mind churning to catch up to what you had long suspected. "The producers paid their way into your sister's favor. Which could then be used for more than just the entertainment industry."

"Not to mention, they could potentially expect lucrative exclusive contracts taken up with the money set by House Iris for public relations. She always did have an excellent media team, don't you think?" You casually mentioned and gently tugged at your web of linked connections. "She tried to cover up her tracks which worked for the average investigator...but not for me, who sees everything."

There was a tone in your voice that sent a chill down Radana's spine, one that was filled with pure focus in your specialty. She resisted the urge to shiver and instead settled for clenching up a hand. "So your sister has a very good marketing team?"

"At the very least, one that she wouldn't cheap out on. Say what you will, that little act was a bit too high quality for just being a mere act." You rubbed your chin and your eyes followed along a thread that abruptly stopped at a picture of the event in question. "No, she invested too much into this distraction. There's a greater thing going on and I intend to uncover it so. It wouldn't do if she had a backup plan to the 'offer' I'll make when the time is right to finally be rid of this job!"

Resource Stockpile: 30/30

Create a plan that you and your aides will execute over the duration of the cycle. Each person will have a general order that they will attempt to carry out at your command. Orders can be repeatedly taken by multiple characters for greater progression, but characters will be locked in the order until it is finished. Many actions will require a target.

[ ] Plan ____
-[ ] [Character] ______
--[ ] [Task] ________
---[ ] [Target] _____
-[ ] [Officer] ______
--[ ] [Task] ________
---[ ] [Target] _____

~~-[ ] [Character] Violet d'Iris, Solar Princess~~
Occupied with Military Espionage (4/6)

-[ ] [Character] Radana, Camellia Knight

-[ ] [Character] Kat, Hyacinth Prism

-[ ] [Character] Dorothea, Lycoris Knight

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

--[ ] [Martial] Commission Ship. Reach out to the dockyards and purchase or order a new ship to join your fleets. Cost varies.
---Requires Berth Location
----Requires Ship Class/Name