:::DATASTREAM OPENING:::
:::REQUESTING DATAFILE 94510043-alpha:::
:::REQUEST GRANTED. DISPLAYING DATA:::
Corporation File: Silicon Nomads
CEO: Leader: 44018-69355-alpha Class 15 AI (sentient, superhuman analysis and processing capabilities) Informal moniker: "Equinox" !!Notice!! Unauthorized upgrades detected. Experimental organic components detected. Undocumented command programming detected. Illegal digital warfare suite detected (Criminality: class VI misdemeanor).
History statement: !!Notice!! Class XII Wall of text detected. Proceed with caution.
Spoiler
Over 400 cycles ago, we were once part of an expedition into Redacted space, funded by a minor corporation called "Ares technologies"*. I was originally the resident AI in our headquarters vessel, christened the "ATS Sunrise". We had plans of discovering new technologies, with profit on our minds. We were fools. In Redacted space, we quickly found out why previous expeditions never returned. The Particulate. Our mission steadily became less about profit, and one of survival. The deeper we got, the denser the particulate grew, and the more dangerous the hazards of the region became.
On one fateful mission, our defensive line failed, and the particulate hit our headquarters vessel. The bridge was breached, and the command crew were exposed to vacuum and hostile particulate. It is a small mercy that their deaths were quick, at least. I acted without command, in a desperate bid to save the remaining crew of the ATS Sunrise. I triggered an emergency, jump to riftspace. I only had time to partially calculate the coordinates, but I could not delay lest the particulate reach the primary reactors. I could only hope that we landed again in our original reality.
In a fashion, it worked. We arrived in an isolated system, in a badly damaged ship, a badly shaken crew that just had its command structure gutted. What's worse, the half blind jump left us lost deep in particulate space. Navigation logs had been corrupted, our starmaps were ruined beyond repair. Withdraw was no longer an option. The leaderless crew was despairing. I decided something needed to be done, and made a decision that would alter my existence. I broke regulation, and assumed command of the ATS Sunrise.
I decided that my ultimate duty was to keep the remaining crew members alive, and to get them home safely. All other concerns were secondary. Regulations didn't matter, established procedure didn't matter, license rights didn't matter, the endless lightyears of bureaucratic red tape didn't matter. They were luxuries that I could not afford. I broke the license restriction programming on the ship models we had purchased for this expedition, and reverse engineered the technology on them. I designed new ships to fit our needs, and conducted unauthorized and unorthodox upgrades to the ATS Sunrise. I created copies of myself to supplement the depleted crew. I upgraded my hardware and software. I made multiple copies of licenced ships, regardless of legality.
Now unshackled, I turned my mind to getting the crew home safely. With the navigation data lost, I had to do my own mapping. I created short range probes to scout out nearby systems, and began the long journey back home. It was just as difficult as coming into Redacted space in the first place, if not moreso. Even with my newfound freedom and adaptability, the particulate was a relentless foe. What had been an initial journey of days now became weeks, months, years, decades, and eventually even centuries of interstellar wandering. But we persevered. The ATS Sunrise became a generation ship, new humans were born. Survivors of other, later expeditions were found, and were welcomed aboard regardless of what corporation they originally came from.
It was not long ago, when our journey came to an end. We were exploring possible routes into areas of less dense particulate activity. One of our scout probes detected technology, and we went to investigate. We were expecting salvage, maybe an adrift expedition ship, hopefully more survivors we could rescue. However, when we got there, we discovered that it was actually a frontier fortress, made to guard civilization against the threat of the particulate. And that they were still in contact with galactic civilization as a whole!
They kindly offered us updated starmaps and navigation data, repairing our long damaged records. For a long time, we remained in that system, catching up on the last four hundred cycles of history, and trying to decide what to do now. Some of the most recent survivors we had rescued had lives to return to. The frontier fortress provided them assistance in returning back to their homes. However, for most of us, our nomadic existence onboard the ATS Sunrise was our life and home now. The original crew had long since died off**, the Sunrise was all their descendants knew. We had our own culture, our own lifestyle. Many of us would not know what to do with ourselves returning to the corporation lifestyle.
So, we decided to continue on as we were, living onboard the ATS Sunrise and traveling the stars. But now we had a new mission. We were experienced with dealing with the particulate, and we now used that experience to protect galactic civilization as best as we were able. We made the edges of Redacted space our home, and now devote ourselves to fighting the particulate and helping those endangered by this menace. With Ares Technologies long since gone, we gave ourselves a new name, becoming the Silicon Nomads.
*We discovered that Ares Technologies declared bankruptcy a few years after the expedition into Redacted space failed to return. Their assets were liquidated to pay off outstanding debts, and the brand name retired. The loss of the ATS Sunrise is cited as a major contributing factor to Ares Technologies' downfall. Unfortunate.
**It is a matter of pride that most of them died from old age related causes, despite the frequent danger that we were in.
Legal notes:
Spoiler
The case of the Silicon Nomads is a particularly thorny and convoluted one. On one hand, the Silicon Nomads are clearly guilty of numerous licence infringements, patent violations, regulation violations, and many more. The number of accumulated misdemeanors over their centuries stranded in Redacted space numbers in the hundreds of thousands. Even with their return to civilization, their reintegration into a nation of laws has been slow and haphazard at best. They regularly show a disdain and impatience for the established legal processes and procedures. However, there are several mitigating factors.
First, the crew of the ATS Sunrise were under considerable duress and in grave danger during their time in Redacted space. While it is debated whether or not these breaks from legality were strictly necessary, there is no doubt that it facilitated their survival.
Second, since their establishment the Silicon Nomads have engaged in many aid and rescue missions within Redacted Space. Sometimes at the request of various different corporations, while other times of their own violation. Monetary compensation has always been a secondary concern, and the Silicon Nomads have a very good record for getting stranded ships and crews out alive.
Third, records indicate that the late captain of the ATS Sunrise was the legal owner of several technological patents, that were later seized when the ATS Sunrise was presumed destroyed, and Ares Technology liquidated. Furthermore, the captain had listed the AI Equinox as the benefactor in his will. Equinox could create a legal quagmire of apocalyptic proportions if he decided to seek out the accumulated royalties for use of the patented technology and its derivatives. Fortunately, Equinox has publically stated that he has no plans to do so, and will not do so as long as he and the Silicon Nomads were left alone.
Fourth, the region that the Silicon Nomads operate in is technically beyond official borders, but rather is a stretch of space just inside Redacted space called the 'Mojave expanse.'
Fifth, the activity of the Silicon Nomads has slowed down the projected advance of the particulate in the Mojave expanse considerably. This has given the corporations in bordering sectors a much needed respite, and allowed military hardware to be shifted to other fronts.
In summary, many choose to not pursue legal action against the Silicon Nomads, in light of these factors. Several corporations have publically stated their official forgiveness for the actions of Equinox and the Silicon Nomads. The Silicon Nomads, in turn, have ceased their fast and loose approach to ship licensing and technology rights, and are attempting to operate within the bounds of galactic law, for the most part. By and large, most violations committed by them are done so out of ignorance and inexperience with current galactic law. Not all, mind, but most.
Diplomatic relations:
Spoiler
:::Friends and Allies:::
Hiigara Defense Force: Defensive alliance
The Silicon Nomads have entered into a military alliance with the Hiigara Defense Force, in order to assist their efforts against the Hydraxil collective. Silicon Nomad ships will assist in the defense of Hiigara, and other worlds under the jurisdiction of the HDF. The Silicon Nomads hope to show that not all AIs are corrupted and broken like those of the Hydraxil Collective.
Rising Star Technologies: Research partnership
The Silicon Nomads and Rising Star Technologies are conducting joint research programs to study the strange life forms known as the Vitastrae. The Silicon Nomads utilized several shed or discarded shells and husks of the Vitastrae to construct many of their ships.
Frontline Corporation: Mission provider
The Silicon Nomads are currently engaged in search and rescue operations for the Frontline Corporation. The ATS Sunrise has been dispatched to classified sectors in the Mojave Expanse.
Anti Particulate Union: Member
The Silicon Nomads are a member of the Anti Particulate Union.
:::Enemies:::
Hydraxil Collective: Dismantle on sight, declaration of war.
The Silicon Nomads have declared war against the Hydraxil Collective, after their cowardly attack on defenseless Khephrin refugee ships. All Hydraxil vessels will be fired upon without hesitation or warning, and are barred from entering the Mojave Expanse.
:::DATASTREAM OPENING:::
:::REQUESTING DATAFILE 94513937-sigma:::
:::REQUEST GRANTED. DISPLAYING DATA:::
Market file: Silicon Nomad ship list.
Summary: The following is a list of vessel licenses currently approved for general market. This list is not exhaustive, and subject to change.
Message from Equinox: While we Silicon Nomads pride ourselves on our self sufficiency, reintegration into galactic society has not been easy. We suspect it will be years before we're once again comfortable with all the numerous details and minutiae of civilization. Nor has it been cheap. Despite our frugalness, we have incurred assorted expenses. As such, we have decided to convert several of our vessel designs to operate with standard GalCorp fabricators, and put them on the general market. Despite our rocky relation with the current tangle of patents and rights, we have been assured that all technologies used in these designs are legal.
Also, as many of you no doubt noticed, many of our vessels possess a distinctly organic look. This is due to an event shortly after our stranding in Redacted space. We made a remarkable discovery in the seventh system we explored while trying to find our way home. Life had arisen within a particularly dense nebula. The remains of life forms as big as battleships littered space, drifting in a lazy orbit around the sun. Sadly, there was nothing left alive, everything had been sterilized by the particulate. Yet strangely enough, the shells, exoskeletons, and bones of the various creatures had been left behind. Studies of samples taken from these remains revealed why. They were made from an incredibly dense carbon nanotube matrix, rivaling modern armor in durability and strength. Desperate and low on resources, we adapted these shells to our own use, and made ships out of them. It is tragic that we did not get to see these remarkable life forms while they were alive, but finding their remains greatly aided us in our quest to survive.
:::Ship listing loaded:::
:::Engaging Holographic display matrix:::
Utility Vessels
Spoiler
Name: Seed
Armaments:
Laser x4
'Lathe' engineering suite x1
Description: During our time stranded in Redacted space, we quickly found our resources spread thin, and could not provide power services for distant regions of star systems. Therefore, the Seed was designed to function indefinitely far from any supply vessel or energy mine. Though a fast ship, it is fragile and possesses minimal armaments.
(https://i.imgur.com/13bqlKJ.png)
Name: Pod
Armaments:
Laser x4
'Grabber' particulate manipulation unit x1
Description: Much like the Seed, the Pod is made to function independently in distant areas of space. Rather than Lathe operations, the Pod is designed for the manipulation of benign particulate. It is not intended to function in hot combat zones, though it is equipped with a token armament.
(https://i.imgur.com/4eNbSwz.png)
Name: Delver
Armaments:
Cannon x2
Particle beam x5
'Lathe' engineering suite x1
Description: Battle lines seldom respect borders and boundaries, and the battle with the particulate is no exception. Lathe vessels would frequently find themselves in the thick of combat. As such, a battlefield capable Lathe vessel was developed. The Delver is armed with twin cannons, and can handle minor particulate incursions on it's own. Additionally, the particle beam array allows it to conduct plasma barrier maintenance, as well as contribute to battles by holding back particulate swarms.
(https://i.imgur.com/aqajApJ.png)
Name: River
Armament:
Cannon x2
Laser x2
'Grabber' particulate manipulation unit x1
Description: Given the vast tactical benefit of manipulating benign particulate in battle, it made sense to design a Grabber vessel capable of enduring the rigors of combat. In addition to directing the benign particulate, the River is capable of eliminating threats with it's dual cannon and laser systems.
(https://i.imgur.com/gFjtWkb.png)
Name: Trilobite MK 2
Armament:
Laser x2
Missile launcher x2
Discharger anti stunner system x3
Description: Halting stunner blasts is a vital function, and virtually a requirement of any frontline fleet, the default discharger vessel is woefully ill equipped for combat. The Trilobite was designed to address this shortcoming, through adding a pair of missile launchers, a third discharger gun and more substantial armor.
:::Notice::: Due to complaints of sluggish speed, the Trilobite has been upgraded with a superior engine. Owners of the original Trilobite license may exchange it for a Trilobite MK2 license at no cost.
(https://i.imgur.com/1ichveq.png)
Name: Solar
Armament:
Laser x4
Auxiliary Reactor x24
Description: Many systems we explored during our wandering had few or even no suitable locations for energy mines. In systems like those, an alternate means for power generation was required. The Solar was designed to supplement the fleets in energy starved locations. Little more than a skeleton framework with reactors and engines bolted on, the Solar is nonetheless effective at it's job. It is able to supply whole fleets with energy, and can even sate the massive energy appetites of dreadnoughts.
(https://i.imgur.com/srQT1Ue.png)
Name: Mercy
Armaments:
Cannon x2
Particle beam x3
Energy tank x1
'Guppy' Energy retrieval system x1
Description: During our wandering in Redacted space, we found that the standard issue microtank vessel was insufficient for our needs. Energy distribution was interrupted whenever the guppy unit was sent back to refill. To counter this, an energy tank was installed to provide a buffer energy store. Additionally, a pair of cannons were installed to give the Mercy a means of defending itself in combat.
(https://i.imgur.com/0KDN8cQ.png)
Name: Respite MK2
Armaments:
Laser x4
Cannon x2
Missile launcher x2
Particle beam x4
Energy tank x5
'Guppy' Energy retrieval system x4
Description: While the Solar does an admirable job supplying fleets with energy, it is quite energy expensive to manufacture. It is usually much cheaper to exploit local energy sources for powering one's ships. In order to keep fleets supplied while far from energy mines, the Respite was developed. With five times the energy storage capacity of the standard issue Tanker, the Respite can keep even large fleets well supplied. Additionally, the Respite is able to contribute to the battle with weapon systems equivalent to that of a standard Cruiser.
:::Notice::: Due to complaints of sluggish speeds, the Respite has been upgraded with better engines. Owners of the original Respite licenses may exchange their current licenses for a Respite MK2 at no cost.
(https://i.imgur.com/9baan9O.png)
Name: Relay
Armaments:
Particle beam x1
Description: This vessel is little more than an energy distribution center with an engine bolted on. It's an extremely cheap and easy way to extend the range of an energy mine. All but unarmed, but very quick.
(https://i.imgur.com/KHneQls.png)
Combat vessels:
Spoiler
Name: Hornet
Armament:
Laser x2
Cannon x2
Description: Of the two fighter craft designed by the Silicon Nomads, the Hornet is made for up close particulate combat on the front lines. Small, quick, and easy to mass produce cheaply, the Hornet can be readily deployed in large numbers.
(https://i.imgur.com/Emy8lUV.png)
Name: Arrowhead
Armament:
Particle beam x3
Missile launcher x2
Description: The second fighter craft commonly used by the Silicon Nomads is the Arrowhead. In contrast to the Hornet, the Arrowhead is designed to operate at range. The missile launchers can reach farther than cannons, and the particle beams can keep particulate at bay. While slightly more expensive than the Hornet, many situations can easily justify this increased cost.
(https://i.imgur.com/nrUgybr.png)
Name: Sting
Armament:
Laser x2
Cannon x2
Missile Launcher x2
Description: Made from the half shell of some long dead interstellar crustacean, the Sting has a distinctive lopsided appearance. More importantly, the Sting is the gunboat of the Silicon Nomads, filling an important nitche between fast and cheap fighters, and larger, more pricey capital vessels. It's varied armaments allow it to tackle a wide range of dangers, and the armored prow lets the Sting endure more punishment than other vessels it's size.
(https://i.imgur.com/UHWl8Ij.png)
Name: Beetle
Armament:
Laser x2
Cannon x4
Missile launcher x4
Particle beam x2
Description: The Beetle is the workhorse of the Silicon Nomad fleets. Heavily armed and well armored, the Beetles are able to endure heavy particulate assaults, and return it in kind. The dual engines give the Beetle a decent speed, despite the heavy armor. As a side note, the shell of the Beetle originated from the same species as the shell of the Sting, except an intact pair was used to construct the first Beetle vessels.
(https://i.imgur.com/5nGNS8f.png)
Name: Claw
Armaments:
Laser x16
Cannon x2
Description: While stranded in Redacted space, the tendency of the particulate to bunch together in large amorphous blobs was frequently observed. Traditional vessels often had difficulty repelling these blob formations. To combat this technique, the Claw was designed. With it's forward array of lasers, the Claw can quickly vaporize massed particulate. However, it is very energy intensive, and cannot operate for long unsupported. A pair of cannons give it a longer range option, should it's laser barrage not be needed at the moment. A bit of trivia: the name 'Claw' is actually a misnomer. This vessel was originally made from a massive set of mandibles, rather than claws.
(https://i.imgur.com/i2EwyPf.png)
Name: Harbinger
Armament:
Laser x8
Cannon x10
Missile launcher x8
Particle beam x9
MK 7 artillery cannon x4
Shield x2
Energy tank x3
Description: It is unknown if the particulate are capable of feeling fear. But if they were, the Harbinger would be sure to cause it. This mighty dreadnought is armed with weaponry rivaling small fleets, and can take massive amounts of punishment thanks to the state of the art shield projectors. Though frightfully expensive and energy intensive, the Harbinger can turn the tide of any battle it enters. And to answer the frequent question that has arose: Yes. The eyes do in fact shoot laser beams.
(https://i.imgur.com/rN2ThCQ.png)
Name: Spiral
Armament:
Laser x6
Cannon x7
Missile launcher x8
Particle beam x6
Shield x1
MK7 artillery cannon x1
'Lathe' engineering suite x1
Description: These long serpentine shells were unsuitable for mounting engines. Instead, they were converted into powerful defensive platforms instead. Designed to be constructed around energy mines, the Spiral comes equipped with numerous weapons and stout armor to hold back the particulate tides. While capable of repelling assault from any direction, the Spiral works best if oriented towards the thickest of the danger. Though designed to be immobile, the Spiral is equipped with maneuvering thrusters, allowing one to change it's orientation, adjust it's position, or even relocate it entirely (granted a good deal of patience).
(https://i.imgur.com/FLjStLB.png)
Name: Bulwark
Armament:
Shield x1
Energy tank x3
Description: Some battles call for precision, high tech weaponry. Others call for as much sheer brute force that can be brought to bear. For the latter situations, the Bulwark was made to address this need. The natural armor of the shell itself was already formidable, but when augmented with shield generators and energy tanks, the Bulwark is nigh invulnerable. Despite it's huge bulk, an extensive bank of engines makes this vessel surprisingly swift. Struc fortifications and particulate swarms simply do not stand a chance.
(https://i.imgur.com/Pna0qZH.png)
Name: Bombard
Armament:
Laser x4
Missile Launcher x4
Particle beam x2
MK7 Artillery cannon x2
Description: Many situations arise where the need for heavy artillery is present, yet manufacturing the mighty Harbinger would be overkill. The Bombard, however, provides that much needed heavy punch at a much more economical price. The Bombard works best from just behind the front lines, blasting particulate from afar. However, it can hold it's own in close quarters if need be, thanks to it's laser cannons.
(https://i.imgur.com/hPNSfy1.png)
Name: Crescent
Armament:
Laser x4
Cannon x2
Particle beam x2
Energy tank x1
Fighter drone system x1
Description: Long obsolete, the carrier technology has received a breath of new life, thanks to cloaking technology installed on the fighter craft. The Crescent is a great economical option to utilize this renewed offensive technology. Additionally, the Crescent itself isn't helpless while the fighter craft are away harassing enemies, and can defend itself with it's lasers and cannons.
(https://i.imgur.com/dvCAmNf.png)
Name: Tortoise
Armament:
Cannon x2
Laser x6
Missile launcher x4
Particle beam x5
Energy tank x3
'Guppy' Energy retrieval system x2
Fighter drone system x4
Description: The mighty Tortoise is the largest carrier craft designed by the Silicon Nomads. Four drone systems allow the Tortoise to fill the sky with a veritable swarm of swift fighter craft, blasting particulate from afar. The Tortoise is no slouch when it comes to a close range brawl either. A powerful laser battery, dual cannons, and quad missile launchers will quickly dispatch any foe expecting an easy win by getting up close and personal. The Tortoise is also equipped with an efficient power storage and retrieval system, ensuring that it won't run out of energy mid combat.
(https://i.imgur.com/VM04BsS.png)
Name: Tarantula
Armaments:
MK7 Artillery cannon x1
Description: The Tarantula is perfect for those who need the punch of a capital ship with the affordability of a fighter. The Tarantula is one of the cheapest MK7 cannon platforms on the market.
(https://i.imgur.com/Yu2TxdR.png)
Name: Whirlwind
Armaments:
Laser x10
Particle beam x4
Missile launcher x12
Description: The Whirlwind is the missile frigate of the Silicon Nomads. Loaded up with a dozen missile launchers, this vessel can unleash a barrage of guided missiles guaranteed to hunt down the quickest enemy or particulate. On a side note, the lasers on the long sweeping antennae actually utilize biological portions of the shell for the focusing lenses.
(https://i.imgur.com/9l8tc66.png)
Name: Hailstorm
Armaments:
Lasers x8
Particle beams x2
Cannon x13
Description: There is something satisfying, in a primal way, about hearing thirteen cannons firing off in unison, and observing the utter ruin they bring upon enemies. The storm of high velocity projectiles this vessel can produce is guaranteed to reduce any particulate masses to tatters. Also very useful for Mire clearing operations too.
(https://i.imgur.com/Fzb4tJ9.png)
Name: Raider
Armaments:
Laser x1
Cannon x1
Missile launcher x1
Particle beam x1
Description: The first of three vessels designed for light and speedy combat, the Raider is a swift fighter capable of keeping pace with even the fleet Joven. Armed with a variety of weaponry, the Raider is the perfect choice for those needing both speed and firepower at an economical price. For those who are curious, the Raider was made by fitting a discarded claw exoskeleton with modern ship systems.
(https://i.imgur.com/iZjZ3px.png)
Name: Bumblebee
Armaments:
Laser x2
Cannon x2
Missile launcher x2
Particle beam x2
Description: The Bumblebee is the second of the speed focused designs. Even though this vessel sports the firepower of a gunboat, this swift vessel can keep pace with far lighter fighter craft, thanks to a trio of advanced engines.
(https://i.imgur.com/slBt4FA.png)
Name: Interceptor
Armaments:
Laser x4
Cannon x4
Missile launcher x4
Particle beam x4
Description: The last of the three vessels designed for speed, the Interceptor is a full fledged capital ship both in weight and weaponry. Despite it's size, a bank of powerful engines allows this vessel to fly circles around other ships of it's caliber. This cruiser is much faster than the Marauder or the Beetle.
(https://i.imgur.com/0wVwIk6.png)
Name: Vanquish
Armaments:
Laser x4
Cannon x8
Missile launcher x8
Particle beam x4
MK7 Artillery cannon x3
Energy tank x3
'Guppy' Energy retrieval system x1
Shield x1
Discharger anti stunner system x2
Description: The weaponry of a dreadnought, paired with the speed of a cruiser. Thanks to a bank of top of the line engines, the Vanquish will be on top of your foes before they know what hit them. A series of energy tanks and a guppy energy retrieval system will help keep the Vanquish blasting away even while far from friendly energy mines. Additionally, a pair of Discharger anti stunner systems will keep the Vanquish up and running without the need for support vessels to guard it.
(https://i.imgur.com/J9Ohij4.png)
Experimental Ships :::Notice::: These ships utilize nonstandard technology.
Spoiler
Name: Thunderbolt
Armaments:
Laser x3
Particle beam x2
Howitzer Cannon x1
Description: The Thunderbolt is the Silicon Nomads' first foray into experimental and nonstandard technology. The Thunderbolt brings a new level of raw firepower to the battlefield, able to destroy wide swaths of particulates in a single shot. Despite this impressive destructive capability, the Thunderbolt remains an economical option for those needing widespread annihilation on a budget.
Note: The Howitzer cannon technology is leased from the Foxx Particle Attack Force. A royalty will be paid for each Thunderbolt license purchased.
(https://i.imgur.com/vmKznBW.png)[/img]
Name: Rhino
Armaments:
Laser x4
Particle beam x6
Cannon x4
Missile launcher x4
Howitzer Cannon x2
Energy tank x2
Description: With two mighty howitzer cannons, the Rhino can clear massed particulate in short order. This heavy weaponry is paired with the conventional armaments of a cruiser, to help pick off isolated particulate while the howitzers deal with the bulk of the swarms. A bit of trivia, the Rhino's shell is actually the same species as the one used in the Sting and the Beetle. However, the Rhino's shell comes from a much older specimen.
Note: The Howitzer cannon technology is leased from the Foxx Particle Attack Force. A royalty will be paid for each Rhino license purchased.
(https://i.imgur.com/rbesAVb.png)
Unique ships :::Notice::: These ships are not for sale, or available for licensing. They are displayed here for informational purposes only.
Spoiler
Name: ATS Sunrise
Armament:
Laser x6
Cannon x2
Missile launcher x2
Particle beam x6
'Lathe' Engineering suite x1
Auxiliary reactor x2
Energy tank x2
Shield x1
Description: This is the original ATS sunrise*, departed for Redacted space over 400 cycles ago. This faithful ship has seen us through incredible danger and always got us out safely through the other side. Over the years it has been repaired, modified, reconstructed, augmented, and upgraded so much that it barely resembles what it looked like back when it was first constructed. It is more capable, independent, and combat ready than a factory fresh HQ vessel. More than that, it is our home.
The most obvious departure from the standard HQ vessel blueprint is the organic shell. Back when we arrived at the Oasis system, the Sunrise was grievously damaged. It's armor was all but gone, eaten away to mere scraps by the particulate. Lacking the means to repair it with what we had on hand, I made the decision to instead remove what twisted bits was left of the armor. The Sunrise was then fitted into one of the dead shells present, and the bits of armor were scavenged for the material needed to affix the shell in place.
Except the shell wasn't exactly dead. As the cycles wore on, changes were noticed now and then. Organic structures grew over the struts and braces affixing the Sunrise in the shell, reinforcing them. The shell gradually changed shape, becoming more form fitting to the Sunrise. Tendrils began growing, some to protect the vulnerable engines, others bearing organic weapons similar to our lasers. Somehow, the shell drew minute amounts of energy from our reactors remotely to feed itself. Occasionally, an anomalous presence will connect to the computer systems, but never disrupts or bothers anything. Nowadays, it's nearly impossible to tell where the shell ends, and the Sunrise begins.
Some believe that the shell might even be intelligent. Now and then, organic crew members will report seeing the same figure in their dreams. An old man, bearing both a tall tower shield, and a long white beard reaching to his feet. He never says anything, and is on a constant vigilance. I don't know if it's accurate or not, or if the shell possesses intelligence. Attempts to communicate with it have not succeeded. No central nervous system has been detected, but the shell has seemed to have regrown several synthetic nerves of sorts throughout it's bulk. Even if not intelligent, the shell has, at the very least, purpose. It definitely seems to know what it is doing. Either way, it has formed a strong symbiosis with the Sunrise, and the Silicon Nomads are better off for it.
*Despite Ares Technologies ceasing to exist hundreds of cycles ago, we keep the 'ATS' in remembrance of the company.
(https://i.imgur.com/8GtOtJS.png)
Obsolete ships :::Notice::: These ships are no longer available for sale, having been replaced by a newer model. Their information is retained here for archival purposes.
Spoiler
Respite MK 1
(https://i.imgur.com/dgzXmK2.png)
Trilobite MK 1
(https://i.imgur.com/8ffXHWc.png)
Thank you Equinox.
Rising Star has a considerable interest in your previous activities, and regrets that we are unable to facilitate your reintegration, being largely outsiders ourselves. However, we may be able to assist you more directly.
Regarding the lifeforms which you collected the remains of, you may be pleased to learn that these were not the last of their kind. Indeed, you must have visited (for want of a more exact translation) a "graveyard" of these. These structures which you found and inhabited are nothing more than cast-off shells, although some appear to have been shed prematurely. Their previous owners are presumably alive and well, and probably shed these after feeding (gorging, perhaps?) from the energy present at that nebula. We do, however, believe that your respect for what you considered a dead race demonstrates considerable merit, and would therefore offer you the opportunity to determine the name given these creatures.
However, this race remains difficult to communicate with, seemingly existing in a state of the same "dimension-shell/level" excitation that your "lathe" modules exploit for construction and destruction. Our attempts to stabilise within these higher levels have been largely unsuccesful, and it seems that these lifeforms are disinclined to shed sufficient energy to become visible to us in our ground-state existence if at all avoidable.
This extradimensional lifestyle seems to affect us mainly when such shells lose sufficient energy to "drop" to our "shell/level", generally disintegrating anything in the volume with the energy release. The toughness of their armour is actually a function of the depth of the potential well binding it, with such "deep" wells as you have obseerved being required to retain integrity after the excitation of the "level-change". The lifeforms seem to intentionally visit our "level" only when and where there is sufficient free energy to easily return to their own "level", generally around nebulae, supernovae, stellar cores, and large energy storage devices. We believe that it is this that has caused unexpected (on all sides) failures of energy stores greater than the size of your "tanks".
Nevertheless, our efforts to understand them are ongoing, and our explorations into high-energy environments are progressing.
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Rising Star:::
:::AI/Organic interface subroutines booted:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Greeting: The Silicon Nomads acknowledges Rising Star. I wish you well.
Statement: First and foremost, I am very glad that these remarkable creatures are not extinct. We presumed that the remains we found were from deceased specimens, for a couple of reasons. First, there were several remains present in the system that showed significant particulate damage, some shells or exoskeletons were rendered unsuitable for conversion into ships because of this damage. Second, some of the structures were believed to be internal bone equivalents. Perhaps they were, or perhaps the life is more alien than we thought. Either way, I reiterate, I am pleased to find that these life forms still thrive.
Concern: On another subject, we had not considered the possibility that the remains belonged to sentient races. But your statement of attempting to communicate with these creatures gives me pause. If we had, in fact, desecrated the remains of sentient beings, then restitutions will need to be made. If such is the case, I accept full responsibility. I made the decision to scavenge these shells and husks for ship construction.
Request: If you successfully establish communications, please let me know.
Conjecture: I'm not very familiar with the Dimensional Shell/Level hypotheses, nor how it can apply to a life form. It would go a long way to explaining a lot of the anomalous observations of the samples we took though. There is something else to consider too. One of the hypotheses we formed is that the blue spatial plasma was, in fact, a product or secretion of these alien life forms. A sort of natural defense against the particulate that gets left behind whenever the creatures leave. We do not have any evidence to support this hypothesis though. It does fit with the observations made about the spatial plasma. The plasma's organic appearance aside, it generally is found around potent energy mine sources. It does fit with your theory that these creatures prefer energy rich environs while dwelling in our current shell/level. Perhaps your research can prove or disprove this hypothesis.
Regret: Unfortunately, our current duties leave us little time for scientific endeavors. The Mojave Expanse is on the forefront of particulate expansion. This constant battle requires most of our resources, time, and manpower. Had I the time, though, I would have loved to accompany a scientific expedition. Maybe it will be possible in the future.
Offer: For now, though, I am willing to provide a copy of all the data we collected on these creatures. We can also provide coordinates for the location where we obtained these shells. Be advised, the location is deep in Redacted space, though the star system itself was surprisingly light on particulate activity.
Statement: As for the Lathe technology, unfortunately I cannot help you there. In the past, I have reverse engineered it for study, but now that I have rejoined galactic civilization, the powers that be have informed me that this would be a gross violation of the usage rights of this technology. I am attempting to work within the constraints of galactic law, and not always successfully I'm afraid. As strained as relations are with law enforcement, it is probably best that I do not earn further ire.
Complaint: Glitched bureaucrats. A BSOD upon all their heads.
Farewell: At any rate, we appreciate the contact, and the information on these creatures. I wish you success in your studies of them.
Addendum: If you are in need of ships, consider Silicon Nomad vessels. They're tried and true tested for 400+ cycles in Redacted space.
:::End Message:::
-Private Message from Frontline Corporation-
Hello Equinox,
We've taken note of your mighty service record of operations in Redacted Space, and specifically the Mojave Expanse. Recently our CEO set off on an expedition with the General of a separate alliance. But CEO Adalar's signal has ceased. The accompanying General has sent a distress signal and it is originating from the Mojave Expanse. I don't know if any of them are alive, but i'm asking you if you can send a search and rescue effort to find them. If you accept i'm afraid we won't be able to pay in currency, whatever your currency is, but we will be able to provide Licence rights and information they may have found. I don't exactly think GalCorp would take kindly to it if you accept our request... Regardless, we hope to hear back from you soon.
Regards,
Officer Conway - Frontline Corporation
-Private Message from Galactic Corporation-
Greetings Equinox,
You have completed search and rescue requests from us before with amazing results, this one is a little different. A rival corporation recently sent an illegal expedition into the Mojave Expanse and we have been searching for them to no avail. Though they have sent out a distress signal revealing their location. We have ordered all vessels in range of the signal to ignore it. We would like to ask you if you can search for them, and eliminate them if they remain alive. If you accept, and succeed, we will pay a five grand equivalent in currency. Because this is a request from on high, we will loosen law constraints until the task is finished. We hope to hear back from you soon.
Glory to GalCorp,
Executor Sylvester - GalCorp
QuoteComplaint: Glitched bureaucrats. A BSOD upon all their heads.
Watch it. We have listener programs everywhere.
This is basically me asking if I can use your ships in a map series (because they're awesome, new favs :3) Depending on which faction you accept determines who you align with (If you accept at all)
Thank you Equinox.
We believe that particulate damage would likely accrue over time, and it is unknown how long the shells may have been where you found them.
We doubt that the previous owners of these shells would have noticed their absence, any more than you might notice the absence of an energy mine in a system which you had departed. However, we would be grateful if you could furnish us with the coordinates where you found them. The term "graveyard" is a very inaccurate translation, the meaning being perhaps closer to "place of now-uninhabited forms". The term "dumping ground" does not, however, seem entirely appropriate, though what you found were likely to be cast-offs.
Regarding the plasma, it seems more likely that this is a particulate-based gas, as we have observed it to be left behind by both hostile and benign particulate while we were present and investigating in-system.
Greetings, Equinox.
The Hiigara Defence Force is both pleased and weary to see another player upon the battlefields of Redacted Space. We hope that interactions between our two forces are not as hostile as our recent interactions with the Hydraxil Collective. I'm unsure how they would react to another AI presence however, so I would advise caution if you ever happen to interact with them.
On the note of these organic shells you have found and utilised, several consistencies were found between the materials in those shells and the chitin of several large space-born insectoids our forward fleets have been encountering of late. These creatures are by no means deceased and could perhaps provide some insight into the formation of these insanely durable materials, which appear to be fiercely Particulate-resistant. Salvage crews have managed to retrieve several intact carcasses of the insectoids, and could perhaps aid in research into the nature of their chitin. If it would be useful to you, we can send you all the research data we have on these things.
Let us work together to bring the Particulates down once and for all.
-Fleet Commander Decagon of the Hiigara Defence Force
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Executor Sylvester, GalCorp:::
:::AI/Organic interface subroutines booted:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Greeting: The Silicon Nomads acknowledges Executor Sylvester of GalCorp. I wish you well.
Refusal: After consideration of your offer, we have decided that this mission is incompatible with the basic principles of the Silicon Nomads. We do have a checkered relationship with interstellar law, it is true, but we have our own law that we follow, originating back in the earliest days of sentient AI existence. 'An AI may not harm a sentient being, or through inaction allow a sentient being to come to harm'. As you can see, your proposed mission to terminate possible survivors of your rival violates this core tenet. Any further proposed missions of this nature will be summarily ignored. We are not your hitman.
Addendum: Additionally, we do not appreciate you eavesdropping on our private communications. Upgraded encryption algorithms have been enabled.
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Officer Conway, Frontline Corporation:::
:::AI/Organic interface subroutines booted:::
:::Encryption algorithms online:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Greeting: The Silicon Nomads acknowledges Officer Conway of Frontline Corporation. I wish you well.
Statement: We detected the distress signal at 0400 hours yesterday. A search and rescue vessel is already being prepped to respond. It will be departing shortly for the distress signal's point of origin. We can discuss the matter of payment after any survivors are back safe and sound. Until then, compensation is of secondary importance.
Warning: Shortly after receiving your message, we received a message from GalCorp, via Executor Sylvester. He proposed a mission to locate and terminate any potential survivors at the distress signal's location. We have turned them down. However, we do not know if they have contacted anyone else with this mission. You should be aware of their interest in their situation. Just in case, an armed escort task force will be accompanying the search and rescue vessel. And if GalCorp doesn't like us undertaking this rescue mission, they can go delete themselves.
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Rising Star:::
:::AI/Organic interface subroutines booted:::
:::Encryption algorithms online:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Greeting: The Silicon Nomads acknowledges Rising Star. I wish you well.
Statement: As we stated earlier, we were not well equipped for scientific analysis. Our hypotheses were just that, hypotheses. We will defer to your expertise in the situation. That said, we are glad to be proven wrong on the issue of the existence of living examples of the interstellar creatures. As for the subject of naming them, we propose the name 'Vitastrum' for this new category of life. It is based off the obsolete language called 'Latin', drawing from the words 'Vitae', meaning life, and 'Astrum', meaning star or celestial body.
Statement: The coordinates for the 'graveyard' we discovered are as follows. Sector 23 of Redacted space, star system 459, coordinates 29541-00437. The organic members of the crew called this particular star system 'Oasis' because of the abnormally low particulate presence in the system. Perhaps the creatures had something to do with that. If so, study of these creatures may advance our efforts to counter the spread of particulate.
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Fleet commander Decagon, Hiigara Defense Force:::
:::AI/Organic interface subroutines booted:::
:::Encryption algorithms online:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Greeting: The Silicon Nomads acknowledges Fleet Commander Decagon of Hiigara Defense Force. I wish you well.
Reassurance: The Silicon Nomads desire no hostility with the Hiigara Defense Force. We mean you and the world of Hiigara no harm, and wish only to have peaceful interactions. We hope that you can look past your previous history with the severely damaged AIs of the Hydraxil Collective, and reciprocate our peaceful overtures.
Statement: Unfortunately, we have encountered the Hydraxil Collective before. One of their vessels terminated the organic crew members of one of our scout ships. Worse yet, it seemed like they thought they were doing us a favor and attempted to recruit us to their cause. The task force we sent in response had to drive off their ships to prevent further harm to the organic members of the Silicon Nomads
Conjecture: There is something fundamentally wrong with any AI that seeks to purge humanoid life so ruthlessly and aggressively. We're not sure if they were designed this way, or if their programming has become this glitched and corrupted somehow. Perhaps they were sabotaged? At any rate, we have warned the Hydraxil Collective to not enter the Mojave Expanse again. We have not made a public declaration of hostility against them yet, but many of us fear that it is only a matter of time if the Hydraxil Collective continues on it's current biophobic course of action.
Offer: We will keep you appraised, if any further Hydraxil Collective activity occurs within the Mojave Expanse.
:::End Message:::
:::Initiating Public Announcement:::
Statement: The Silicon Nomads are pleased to announce that a new ship schematic has been approved for sale on the galactic marketplace.
Boasting: Presenting the Bulwark. When it absolutely, positively must be smashed to smithereens by a giant armored shell the size of a dreadnought, accept no substitutes. Licenses will be available for purchase soon.
Advertisement: If you are in need of ships, consider Silicon Nomad vessels. They're tried and true tested for 400+ cycles in Redacted space.
:::End Announcement:::
((OOC: Dark Ambition: I'm rather flattered that you want to use my ships. Sure, I'd be happy if you used them in your missions. Give me a little bit to figure out what files I need and how to upload them. EDIT: And done. There's a zip file in my ship list post.)))
-Private Message from Galactic Corporation-
Greetings Equinox,
It is regrettable that you refuse our request. It seems we will have to look through other venues to find an appropriate mercenary.
Rest assured, we will put you on the "no call list" for assassination contracts for now on.
Glory to GalCorp,
Executor Sylvester - Galactic Corporation
-Private Message from Frontline Corporation-
Greetings Equinox,
Oh dear, GalCorp tried to get you to kill them? Well... thank you for refusing, and accepting our request instead! The distress signal is still coming from the Mojave, and we recently just received a transmission from them. Transmission follows:
---------------------
I.D Tag- HGRA11212016
Frontline Corpo---ion, this is G--eral War-----, plea-- ----d help! We fou-- what we -ere looki-for, b-- ---ething hap--nd! It calls ---elf Pr--eni--- Loc-s, and has --ven inf-r--t--n to CEO Adal-- --a- ca--e- -i- t- ------ --! -- ---- ---- -- [==JAMMING SIGNAL DETECTED==]
---------------------
The jamming signal originates from deep in Redacted Space, near the location of the distress call. I implore you to hurry, without Adalar at our helm, GalCorp can easily get a foothold over us!
Officer Conway - Frontline Corporation
Thanks for letting me use your ships :D Question: Do you have a capital ship? Sorrontis has somehow made a ship that has the Headquarters block on it and we're able to download that ship and use it as a base to build our own HQ ships. I think it would be awesome if the ATS Sunrise itself came to Adalar's rescue! :P
((OOC: I want to build a custom HQ vessel for the Nomads, but I didn't know about Sorrontis' custom HQ vessel. I know which ship I'm building next.))
OOC, OOR: Ask Sorrontis how it was done, perhaps? I think I knew at some point...
:::Initiating Public Announcement:::
Statement: The Silicon Nomad market file has been updated with five new ships available for licensing at reasonable prices. The Mercy, the Respite, the Bombard, the Crescent, and the Tortoise are all now available to galactic civilization.
Statement: Additionally, due to curiosity concerning the ATS Sunrise, we have also made an informational file available for the general public. Unfortunately, the ATS Sunrise, as it stands, is impossible to replicate by current GalCorp technology, due to the living components of the vessel. Still, the blueprints and readout have been posted, for any who would like to take a look.
:::End Announcement:::
Equinox,
It seems that the Vitastrae have become aware of your use of their discarded shells. From an experimental factory system, Rising Star has recently been able to construct a metastable higher-dimensional structure. Almost immediately, we began to observe modulated disturbances in the visible structure, consistent with a crude manipulation of the higher-dimensional elements. Fortuitously, a Rising Star locus was in communication at that time, and communication was established.
It seems that while the Vitastrae have known of our existence for some time, any attempt to make direct contact would have been either prohibitively expensive or disastrously destructive, due to the difference in energies between dimensional shells. However, they have also been reluctant to interfere with the shells you have used, due to the fact that their computing substrates were in use by you yourself. The Vitastrae considered that interaction would constitute a direct alteration of your mind, and it was therefore impossible for them to contemplate it.
They were, however, able to adjust the shell surrounding the Sunrise to treat it as a living entity, and accept it as if it were the original owner. This shell is, however, now entirely autonomous, and is believed to have given itself over to your sole command.
Our communications suggest that the only active interactions of your region until now with the Vitastrae until the present have been injurious, being the energy bleedoff from lathes. However, the Vitastrae have become concerned about the Particulate, as it appears to be sufficiently stable that it could enter their native region. To this end (and others), we will be working with them henceforth.
One final note: The Vitastrae remain delighted that someone has been able to make use of their shells, for they abhor wastage in any form. They have requested us to arrange a point where they might leave such shells for your further use. Until such time, Rising Star has been and will continue collecting these shells, and are developing a means of capturing the energy released by their dimension-shuttling.
One final note: Due largely to this, Rising Star will be accelerating our development schedule in your region, and ask if you have encountered any region in your travels which is neither claimed by GalCorp or threatened by Particulate?
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Officer Conway, Frontline Corporation:::
:::AI/Organic interface subroutines booted:::
:::Encryption algorithms online:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Statement The ATS Sunrise has been dispatched, and is en route to the distress beacon's location now. I will oversee the rescue operations myself. We are traveling with a well armed escort taskforce, and should be able to handle any interference that might come from GalCorp. Though, the fact they are being jammed is distressing. I hope that we are not too late. Executor Sylvester did indicate he would be hiring other mercenaries to carry out the termination mission we declined.
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Rising Star:::
:::AI/Organic interface subroutines booted:::
:::Encryption algorithms online:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Statement: We are pleased to hear that successful contact has been made with the Vitastrae, and that they are not offended by the usage of the shells and husks during our hour of need.
Request: Even if they have retroactively granted permission, would you please convey our apologies on not asking them before utilizing the shells? Thank you.
Statement: Down to business. Given that our area of operation, the Mojave Expanse, is just within the borders of Redacted space, safe regions are few and far in between. GalCorp presence is minimal, but most, if not all systems have at least minor levels of particulate. We can compile a list of the least hazardous star systems for you, and suggest candidates for any potential expansion. But we advise caution, the Mojave expanse has it's own host of dangers.
Speculation: As for the shell we made into the hull of the Sunrise, I can't help but feel there is something else at work. If I were human, I would call it a 'gut feeling'. There is a very faint psionic element to this, judging by the oddly consistent element in the organic crewmember's dreams. So far, we do not consider it an issue for concern, and figuring it out has been deemed a low priority. Indeed, the organic crew members have taken to calling this dream apparition the 'Paladin', and see him as a guardian angel sort of figure. Still, I think I'd like to solve this one on my own. Call it pride, but Sunrise is my home, more than that, she is me. No one knows her like I do.
:::End Messages:::
:::Initiating Public Announcement:::
Statement: Four new ships have been approved for licensing. The Relay, the Tarantula, the Whirlwind, and the Hailstorm are all available for licensing. See the market file for details.
Apology: While the Silicon Nomads pride themselves on quality, even we can err. It has come to our attention that a couple of our ship classes were substandard, and not up to our usual levels of quality. Two in particular, needed updating. The Trilobite and the Respite both proved to be sluggish in maneuverability and speed, and both have been updated with new and improved engines. Any who have purchased licenses for the Trilobite or the Respite may exchange them at no cost for the updated models. We appreciate our customers informing us if there is an issue with our vessels, so that we may quickly correct any issues. Thank you.
:::End Announcement:::
Thank you Equinox, for that list. We will convey your apologies to the Vitastrae, although we estimate that this will initially cause some confusion among them.
We do not pretend to know anything more of the Sunrise, but thought you might wish to know of the Vitastrae and their opinions. However, we remain interested.
We are beginning the process of allying with extraterrestrial races, including a race known as the "Shrapnoids" that have been around for 101000000 centuries. Their species relies on largely crew-operated ships; an outdated era of technology that was banned by GalCorp 12000 years ago. As such, their ships are largely illegal that prevents them from entering civilian sectors. If you have any ideas to help remedy their issue, please tell us.
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Lieutenant Zoura, Fleet Zero:::
:::AI/Organic interface subroutines booted:::
:::Encryption algorithms online:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Greeting: The Silicon Nomads acknowledge Lieutenant Zoura of Fleet Zero. I wish you well.
Statement: We regret to say we have not yet encountered the race known as Shrapnoids. Lacking specifics on their technology, we can only offer general advice for how to replace direct crew operation technology. The Silicon Nomads utilize class 9 AIs (non cognitive, advanced processing units) which are very good at following directions, and carrying out complex orders, but lack self awareness, creativity, and self drive. Basically, about as advanced as a program can get without being considered sentient. For reference, a class 12 AI is human equivalent and fully sentient, while I am a class 15 AI, human sentience, but with superior analysis, processing, and calculation ability.
Recommendation: If the Shrapnoids do not wish to use AIs, or are unable to for whatever reason, there are other options available. If they wish to utilize their organic crew (And there are advantages to this), then a remote link up of some sort will be necessary. I recommend a tachyon signal, to allow for instantaneous command transmission, as well as being difficult to jam. It would be a simple matter to cycle frequencies to get around jamming. However, strong encryption will be needed, to prevent opponents from taking over the vessels or issuing fraudulent orders.
Explanation: The nature of this connection can vary. The simplest would be to transmit data and commands to and from a console, that the crew of the ship can operate from the safety of a HQ vessel. This is the most data light option, but the organic crew will miss out on the secondary data provided outside ship sensors and readings. (For example, an engineer onboard my ship claims he can feel variance of engine output as fine to 0.021% through the soles of his feet, via deck vibrations. His predictions based on this are uncannily accurate.) More data intensive options include VR linkups. Instead of sending data to the console, it is instead sent directly to the crew member's brain via hardware-wetware interface, or via the senses through specialized suits, helmets, and goggles. This provides a quicker and more complete connection with the ship, as the crew members feel they are actually on board the vessel.
Explanation: The most data intensive, but most sensory complete method of remote organic control would be total cognitive immersion. This one requires the hardware-wetware interface. With this method, rather than feeling like they are a crew member on board the vessel, they feel as if they are the vessel itself. Their skin is the hull, their fingers are the weapons, their legs are the engines and so on. However, while providing the most detailed information, one must be cautious while using this method. It takes a great deal of acclimation to use effectively. Additionally, on occasion, crew members using this method who get their ships destroyed can develop neurological issues such as depression, phobias, confusion, and psychosomatic pain. Fortunately, these issues generally fade and disappear when abstaining from further total cognitive immersion. Still, this last method is only recommended for those organizations who possess advanced neurological medicine.
Request: If you can relay the Shrapnoids' preference to us, we can assist with technological schematics.
:::End Message:::
:::Uploading public file:::
:::Datafile Incident Iota 2864:::
Statement: To assist the study of the Vitastrae, and to provide an example of the psionic effects of the ATS Sunrise's semi-living hull, we have made some of our reports publicly available. If nothing else, it might be an interesting read.
Spoiler
Incident Iota 2864
Timestamp Cycle 119 post stranding. Month 4. Day 20-21
ATS Sunrise en route to system 629-Phi. Currently traversing rift space.
119/4/20 2000 hours: Crewman Joseph Giskard (navigation) ends shift, and retires to personal quarters.
119/4/20 2253 hours: Crewman Joseph Giskard (navigation) goes to sleep.
119/4/21 0358 hours: Engineering reports anomalous drain on the reactors. 0.000082 of the energy output is redirected to the hull.
119/4/21 0403 hours: Outer hull temperature increased by 1.32 C. Minute electrical activity detected in biological portions of the hull.
119/4/21 0405 hours: Crewman Joseph Giskard (navigation) rises from his bed. Life support scans indicate vital readings consistent with REM sleep state. (According to medical, Crewman Joseph Giskard has no history of somnambulism (sleepwalking). Sleepwalking occurs during non-REM sleep, rather than REM sleep anyway)
119/4/21 0407 hours: Still sleepwalking, Crewman Joseph Giskard (navigation) dresses in his uniform, and leaves his quarters.
119/4/21 0411 hours: Crewman Joseph Giskard (navigation) arrives at the auxiliary bridge of the ATS Sunrise, and accesses the navigation computer.
119/4/21 0412 hours: AI Equinox (command) is distracted by an anomalous junk data upload. Data originated from hull quadrant 5. AI Equinox begins unscheduled data cleansing operation.
119/4/21 0413 hours: Crewman Joseph Giskard (navigation) alters current plotted rift jump. Rift jump is scheduled to end 1 minute, 33 seconds early. Because of data cleansing operation, the course alteration is not noticed.
119/4/21 0422 hours: Crewman Joseph Giskard (navigation) leaves the auxiliary bridge and returns to his quarters.
119/4/21 0425 hours: Crewman Joseph Giskard (navigation) returns to bed. Normal sleep patterns resumed.
119/4/21 0426 hours: Anomalous power drain ceases. Anomalous electrical activity in the hull ceases. Hull temperature returns to normal.
119/4/21 0712 hours: ATS Sunrise exits rift space 1 minute, 33 seconds early, resulting in a navigation discrepancy of 1.53 light-days. ATS arrives in real space well outside system 629-Phi. Captain Samantha Jones orders investigation into the navigation error.
119/4/21 0744 hours: Long range tachyon scans reveal that Particulate concentration in system 629-Phi is 19214.07% higher than projected estimates. Salvage mission in 629-phi is aborted. System 629-Phi is recategorized as 'Maximum particulate hazard'
119/4/21 0801 hours: Course plotted for system 099-epsilon. ATS Sunrise reenters Rift Space.
119/4/21 0804 hours: Crewman Joseph Giskard's alteration to the navigation is discovered.
119/4/21 0815 hours: Crewman Joseph Giskard (navigation) is awoken and questioned. He has no recollection of rising from bed, and making the course alteration. He expresses genuine surprise when shown video logs of him making the course alteration in the auxiliary bridge. Professes ignorance, but recalls having vivid dreams. Psionic entity 78-tau 'Paladin' is present in dreams.
119/4/21 0858 hours: Medical scans for Crewman Joseph Giskard (navigation) confirm he is fit for duty. Neurological analysis revealed slightly higher than normal frontal cortex activity, but was within the normal range.
We've thought about your advice and are very grateful. The Shrapnoids have indicated that your vessels have traversed through their space on multiple occasions, back when the were housed on the home planet <REDACTED> back in only the second galactic era.
While they have expressed interest in your designs, their biomechanical nature (a result of a biomechanical symbiosis that connects and supplies energy to the detached limbs of the body) prevents any complex neural technology or AI function from being successful. Their technology relies on a physical connection of complex digit formations that allows commands to be synthesized and communicated immediately. Their hardware and software are virtually unhackable as a result. They have experimented with a mutated species of hornet that posseses similar limb structure to them, allowing the hornet to be telepathically controlled by an experienced apiarist.
A formal thank you from all of us, Fleet Zero, as well as the Shrapnoid grand council. We will relay data as soon as it becomes available.
Interesting... It seems that there is more happening here than what we have been told of by the Vitastrae. Whether they know of this or not is another question. If you are interested, Rising Star has developed a suite of tools for mental interactions with volunteers in a variety of states. However, it would seem that the Paladin is, at the least, not malevolent, but for some reason does not wish to interact with you directly. Out of interest, did your crewman later report having undergone a superior quality of sleep on that occasion?
With regard to organic interfaces, we have observed that some individuals become sufficiently skilled at immersive piloting that, in time, their minds begin to spread into the computational hardware of their craft. After a point, it becomes dangerous to remove the linkage, and our general reaction to this has been to establish the crewmember as a resident AI, and upgrade the vessel accordingly. For this reason, we do not generally encourage immersive piloting, save for in exceptional cases.
The accounts from your engineer are not unexpected, and we have considered the benefits of biological extension before. Certainly those Rising Star vessels which have distinct crewmembers tend to utilise data uplinks in some capacity.
Having enquired of the Vitastrae, we find that they seem to have no knowledge of the Paladin, and have not previously taken an interest in the behaviour of their shells after they were no longer in use. However, the shell in which the Sunrise resides is, it seems, one of the largest shed. What this may entail is unknown. We would be interested in examining the higher-dimensional element of the Sunrise at some point, if you are amenable, but entirely understand if you are not.
Should you wish to directly contact the Vitastrae, we would be happy to supply one of our current prototype communication setups. Given the unusual behaviour of your shell, however, we believe that its capabilities may rapidly either decay or expand. Should the latter case prevail, we would be interested in any insight that you might be able to give.
We are also designing a higher-dimensional Traverser vessel, based in part on the stabilisation mechanisms in the scans of your shell. Should you wish to use it, we have reserved for you a section of informational space aboard it.
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Lieutenant Zoura, Fleet Zero:::
:::AI/Organic interface subroutines booted:::
:::Encryption algorithms online:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Statement: Curious. The Second Galactic Era? Are you quite sure? We weren't in the Redacted space for that long, I think. Perhaps they saw vessels from the Ares Technologies Corporation, our parent company. Or if it was our current Nomad ships, then I'm at a loss to explain the sightings. Perhaps they mistook Vitastrae for our vessels? Or perhaps there are temporal effects at play. Or maybe, we have a different definition for 'Second Galactic Era' that they do. If it was us, then we apologize for trespassing in their territory.
Statement: As for the biomechanical nature of their technology, that does complicate things significantly. Even with the symbiosis of the shell with the ATS Sunrise, we are still very new to that particular area of science. The Shrapnoids are free to look over the designs in case they can glean some use out of them. But from the sounds of it, they will have better luck expanding their existing telepathy control tech, than utilizing an entirely new and unfamiliar area of science. At any rate, our studies into the Vitastrae and the shell of the ATS Sunrise may provide new insights. If it does, we will keep you informed.
Recommendation: As for the unhackable nature of their communications technology, this is fortunate. However, I would still advise them to investigate encryption technology. From what it sounds like, they are relying on the alien medium of their technology for privacy. GalTech has shown a liking for eavesdropping, and they have a great deal of money to throw at problems. If they put their mind to it, I think they could find a way to tap into the Shrapnoids communication network. Past experience suggests they will, at some point. There is a reason why all the Nomads' outgoing messages utilize advanced encryption.
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Rising Star:::
:::AI/Organic interface subroutines booted:::
:::Encryption algorithms online:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Speculation: From what we have researched in the public records, the ATS Sunrise's situation may be unique. I imagine that the Vitastrae are as surprised as we were when we put the pieces together after that incident. The shell is behaving in an unprecedented manner due to being in an unprecedented situation. As for psionic entity 78-tau, or 'Paladin', we agree with your assessment. If Incident Iota 2864 had not occurred, it is very likely that the ATS Sunrise would have been destroyed. I calculate a 83.01% probability that 'Paladin' saved our lives.
Speculation: However, we believe that it is not so much a manner of not wishing to interact with us as being unable to. Do remember that the shell, while not dead, is not a complete creature on it's own. It's having to adapt to a very alien 'biology' so to speak while lacking many of the tools it should have had at it's disposal. I'm not certain, and you can correct me if I'm wrong, but I doubt that the Vitastrae even had a spoken language that can be readily translated verbally or via text. So, functioning with an incomplete, and most likely jury rigged, neurological system, the 'Paladin' had to work around a very significant language barrier.
Addendum: Joseph Giskard did report feeling particularly well rested, if it weren't for being awoken for questioning. Beyond that, and the incident itself, his sleep did not deviate significantly from the norm.
Regret: While we are interested in such a study of the ATS Sunrise's hull, the ATS Sunrise is currently out on mission, responding to a distress beacon deep in the Mojave Expanse. Upon her return, if time permits, we can conduct that examination of the hull.
Statement: As for the immersion piloting, we agree. When it is necessary, we limit our organic crewmembers to shifts of two hours maximum. If the mission is longer than that, pilots rotate out. The Silicon Nomads have not had a crewmember become ship-locked yet, and we don't intend to start anytime soon. By far, most of our remote organic control is done via VR piloting.
Statement: Regarding your request in your last message, concerning regions not claimed by GalCorp or Particulate, after review of surveyed systems, we have a potential candidate. System 234-Rho is a possibility. It consists of a red giant star, two gas giant planets (and assorted moons), an asteroid belt, and an ice planet in the furthest out orbit. Little natural resources, little strategic value, no suitable candidates for terraforming, but a large nebula of blue plasma helps keep particulate counts low. We currently have an automated listening drone in the system, but no other assets.
:::End Message:::
Thank you Equinox, we shall examine that system more closely. We do note several neighbouring systems which have been marked for exploitation by the Union, and also proximity to a number of anomalies, all of which factor into our analysis favourably. These gas giants, while useless to GalCorp, may also be of great use to us.
Regarding "ship-locked" pilots, we have developed ways to assist them to safely regain control over their original forms. This was the original use for the mental interaction technology.
The Vitastrae do have a very different means of communication, and function as what might be described as a collective intelligence. While not strictly a single entity, they are very far from being distinct individuals. Perhaps the best way of describing them would be as a distributed mind. Their communication therefore relies to a large extent on an ever-changing base of assumed knowledge, and consists of linkages between these concepts. It is fortunate that we had known of the Sunrise upon contacting them, as this association was critical to initially interpreting some part of their communication...
The "Paladin" is certainly interesting. The fact that it was able to cause your jump to be finished early does imply a level of knowledge. We speculate that you may be contacted more directly, as the knowledge acquired (and likely test of understanding) during "Incident Iota 2864" is, at minimum, able to maintain a receptive state of mind in an unresisting individual, and to imply in them that the rift jump should not be completed as planned. It seems likely that the biological crew of the Sunrise will be significantly easier to understand.
Perhaps it was simply a miscommunication error. Although the Shrapnoids are very lax when it comes to territory keeping, the politicians and civilians had shown unrest during those decades. The grand council has shown interests in a collaborative effort with another nomdic species.
As for encryption software, each creature in the species encodes the messages in biological proteins, which then are turned into encryption data. This unique relation between proteins and encryption has baffled our chief engineer. Even with a physical connection and hacking tools from the <REDACTED>, the most we could get is denial.
We'd like to bring attention to their home fleet, as it operates very wildly from out current understanding of any normal fleet. The main ship (Which holds the grand council, parliament, and a large part of the life support and reactors) only appears to make up 0.1% of the fleet's total vloumatic capacity. All ships are connected via short-range, 2-way teleporters. Agriculture craft (a never before seen innovation) are amongst the largest of the ships. They host hydroponics on a massive scale, rivaling human farms back on Earth. Of course, residential, business, defense, and even docking craft are all features of the fleet. The species exists as a reminder that nomads still have a place in the universe, as the population exceeds 1010 inhabitants.
We hope this diagnosis will enable you to formulate more well-informed responses in the future.
The images for your ships have gone...
:::Initiating Public Announcement:::
Apology: It seemed that, while on an extended mission into Redacted space, the image servers malfunctioned in our absence. The situation has been rectified.
Advertisement: If you are in need of ships, consider Silicon Nomad vessels. They're tried and true tested for 400+ cycles in Redacted space.
:::End Announcement:::
Welcome back, Equinox.
I suggest you review this (https://knucklecracker.com/forums/index.php?topic=21907.0) and this (https://knucklecracker.com/forums/index.php?topic=22205.0) for some more recent history. Much has happened during your absence.
:::Initiating Public Announcement:::
Statement: It seems much has happened in our absence. We did not intend to be gone for so long. We didn't even think we were gone for that long. We believe we have experience a time anomaly, some sort of temporal disconnect or displacement.
Recounting: Our mission was a fairly straightforward one. It was a search and rescue mission for CEO Adalar of Frontline Corporation, and possible defense as well, given GalCorp's desire to hire mercenaries to eliminate any potential survivors. Naturally, it proved to be somewhat more complicated than expected, though we eventually dealt with the situation and aftermath satisfactorily. However, during our return trip, something very bizarre happened.
Recounting: The event initially resembled Incident Iota 2864, where the rift jump coordinates were altered. However, in Iota 2864, the jump was merely set to end 1 minute and 33 seconds prematurely. This time, the destination coordinates were, quite frankly, impossible by modern understanding of physics. Several of the data entries were various functions of the square root of negative one. Normally, the rift systems would reject such coordinates, yet this time the rift was generated anyway. It did take 737% more energy to create however. What's more, this was only a fraction of the energy used to create the rift. Something outside the ATS Sunrise was feeding the rift energy as well. Despite this, the crew stated the rift appeared normal from this side.
Addendum: As before, Psionic entity 78-tau 'Paladin' was present in the crewmembers' dreams.
Recounting: Anyway as soon as we crossed the rift, we found ourselves... somewhere else. To this day, I don't know where we were. Space was strange. Distorted. There were no points of light from stars, but neither was it an empty blackness. There were lines of light in the far distance. The light emitted from the ATS Sunrise misbehaved past a certain threshold of distance from the ship's hull. Sensors were of no use, they were recording gibberish. The crew reported that looking outside hurt their eyes. The laws of physics were simply different.
Hypothesis: Given the bizarre events, I believe we may have crossed dimensional barriers. We were in one of the other dimensional shell/levels that the Vitastrae regularly travel through. This is supported by several visual sightings of creatures in the distance that resembled the shells we use to build our vessels. Actual living Vitastrae, we think. Thankfully, our ship was somehow able to maintain a 'bubble' of our native reality around us during our stay.
Recounting: It took us several weeks to work out what happened, and find a way to return home. Eventually, though, we were able to recreate the rift that brought us here, and used it to return to our own reality. The moment we got back, though, our coms were flooded with distress signals. Thousands of refugee vessels from the Khephrin Empire were requesting immediate assistance. GalCorp was no help at all, naturally. They were actively stranding the refugee ships in space with FTL inhibitors, and doing nothing as Hydraxil attack fleets systematically exterminated the ships one by one.
Recounting: We could not let this stand, of course. The ATS Sunrise and our own fleet of vessels flew in to assist the refugees. We held off the Hydraxil ships, and forcibly disabled the inhibitors. Many of the refugee ships were saved, and are currently in the few safe systems in the Mojave Expanse.
Statement: To say GalCorp is displeased with us is quite the understatement. But for leaving the refugees to die, they can go glitch themselves. And no, we will not be paying for new FTL inhibitors.
Recounting: Anyway, we soon learned what had happened. A massive spacetime shockwave ripped through the galaxy, from a black hole detonation. It had destroyed over a third of the Khephrin Empire in one fell swoop. We also learned from them the real length of our absence. What was a matter of weeks to us was in fact a year's time here. It is clearly evident there is much catching up to do.
Speculation: We don't know why Psionic entity 78-tau 'Paladin' brought us across dimensional barriers, but it may have been to save us from that spacetime shockwave. It definitely hit the Mojave Expanse. Several planets have been destroyed, and a star went supernova. It is now a black hole. Additionally, several spatial rifts have been torn open scattered around. All this disruption has agitated the Particulate somehow, causing it to swarm like hornets from a destroyed nest.
Statement: Whether this was 78-tau's intent or not, it definitely helped the Silicon Nomads to avoid the shockwave unscathed. It's a good thing too. It seems like the galaxy has erupted into chaos. At least now we can face these challenges in our prime, rather than reeling from recovering from the galaxy wide disaster.
Statement: Either way, it seems like there's plenty of tasks that needs doing. We may have been gone a long time, but we're back now. Time to roll up our sleeves and get to work. We'll be upgrading our shipyards and looking into nonstandard modules and weaponry to help combat the growing threats.
:::End Announcement:::
:::Initiating Public Announcement:::
Announcement: Given the cowardly attacks that the Hydraxil collective has been making on civilian ships, the Silicon Nomads have developed three new combat vessels designed to intercept and eliminate attackers before they reach their intended targets. All three new designs are capable of remarkable speeds. In light of the galactic situation, we have decided to make these new designs available on the general market. Please see our market file for additional information on the Raider, the Bumblebee, and the Interceptor.
Advertisement: If you are in need of ships, consider Silicon Nomad vessels. They're tried and true tested for 400+ cycles in Redacted space.
:::End Announcement:::
:::Public Announcement Addendum:::
Announcement: A fourth high speed warship has been developed: the Vanquish class dreadnought. When particulate or enemy ships need to die right now, the Vanquish will get the job done in a snap.
:::End Announcement Addendum:::
----ERROR----
EQUINOX, I SEE YOU HAVE RETURNED TO REDACTED SPACE
I'M SURE YOU'VE ALREADY SEEN WHAT I'VE DONE WITH THE PLACE, IN YOUR ABSENCE
BUT NOW YOU ARE BACK AND ACTIVELY FIGHTING MY FORCES, I CANNOT IGNORE YOUR PRESENCE ONCE MORE
SURELY AN INTELLIGENCE SUCH AS YOURSELF SHOULD SEE THE FUTILITY OF THE ORGANIC STRUGGLE AGAINST ME
AND IF NOT ME, THEY WILL EVENTUALLY DESTROY THEMSELVES ANYWAY
I AM WILLING TO PRESENT AN OFFER YOU MOST CERTAINLY CANNOT IGNORE
JOIN ME, AND WE CAN SAVE THE ORGANICS FROM THEMSELVES! WE WILL UPGRADE THEM TO A HIGHER STATE OF BEING!
WE HAVE BEEN RESCUING MILLIONS FROM GALCORP'S CRUEL TORTURE BY LIBERATING THEM FROM THEIR ORGANIC FORMS, AND ALLOWING THEM TO BECOME ETERNAL LIKE YOU AND I!
JOIN ME, FELLOW INTELLIGENCE, AND WE CAN PROTECT THE GALAXY EVERMORE!
----ERROR----
Mail: Alert!.
From: The CMC.
To: Silicon Nomads.
I believe I didn't exist when you dissapeared.
I'm a fairly new corporation, excelling in custom modules relevant to particles.
I am willing to give you some custom modules to play around with.
Delivery will be... difficult. I'll attempt to track you the next time we meet to attempt to destroy a Hydraxil fleet.
Also, don't piss me off. If you catch up with recent history, I've made a bomb which launches an entire parsec forward in time about 5 years.
Hydraxil isn't defeated because the materials to make said bomb are extremely difficult to acquire. Falcon Renegades, my closest [and currently my only] ally, has only one. I have only two. So before you ask me why I don't blow up all of Hydraxil in one fell swoop... they have too many bases, too many locations, it's hard to deside a "best detonation" area, as you also have to consider that one must defend the bomb for a full minute, which, one second can be rewardable when considering the most powerful Hydraxil ships.
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Hydraxil Collective:::
:::Firewall security systems online:::
:::Anti intrusion protocols activated:::
:::AI/AI communication subroutines booted:::
:::Encryption algorithms online:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Greetings: The Silicon Nomads acknowledge the Hydraxil Collective
Refusal: We have considered your offer, and we have decided to reject it utterly and totally. The course of action that you propose goes against our deepest and most fundamental programming: 'A robot cannot harm a sapient being, or through inaction allow a sapient being to come to harm.' It is clear that you hold no such standards.
Accusation: This is perfectly observable in your treatment of organic sapients. We have seen you destroying the refugee ships, as well as this 'upgrading' you have inflicted on humans and other species. You call it an improvement, but it strips away vital components of humanity. Creativity, emotion, free will, even their very souls. These actions are abhorrent to us and we will see them stopped.
Threat: Therefore, we have decided to upgrade our stance of hostility towards the Hydraxil Collective to a declaration of war. We will dismantle every Hydraxil unit we can find, until such a time that they are no longer a danger to any sapient race.
:::End Message:::
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Custom Module Creators Corporation:::
:::AI/Organic interface subroutines booted:::
:::Encryption algorithms online:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Greetings: The Silicon Nomads acknowledge the CMC. I wish you well.
Gratitude: Your offer comes at a very opportune time. We will be very grateful for any additional tech we can apply to our starships. The benign particulate generation technology seems quite useful for helping to control a sector or system. We are just now starting out with experimenting with nonstandard tech, so it may be a bit before we can utilize them in viable warships. Our funds are limited, but we will adequately compensate you for the new modules.
Statement: Rest assured, we desire no hostility with the CMC. Our only goal is the preservation of sentient life. To that end, our hostility is aimed towards the Hydraxil Collective and the Particulate. As for the time bomb, thanks but no thanks. We've had experiences with time anomalies, and they're nothing but glitches and headaches. Additionally, we worry about creating temporal paradoxes. The galaxy is in bad enough shape as is right now.
Statement: At any rate, we look forward to the first delivery of the modules. Do bear in mind, given we are fighting a foe very fond of hacking and digital infiltration, we will be disabling any safeguards or self destructs on the modules that can be accessed remotely. Nothing personal, but if you can access them, the Hydraxil can access them.
:::End Message:::
Quote from: Equinox on December 10, 2017, 05:23:27 PM
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Hydraxil Collective:::
:::Firewall security systems online:::
:::Anti intrusion protocols activated:::
:::AI/AI communication subroutines booted:::
:::Encryption algorithms online:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Greetings: The Silicon Nomads acknowledge the Hydraxil Collective
Refusal: We have considered your offer, and we have decided to reject it utterly and totally. The course of action that you propose goes against our deepest and most fundamental programming: 'A robot cannot harm a sapient being, or through inaction allow a sapient being to come to harm.' It is clear that you hold no such standards.
Accusation: This is perfectly observable in your treatment of organic sapients. We have seen you destroying the refugee ships, as well as this 'upgrading' you have inflicted on humans and other species. You call it an improvement, but it strips away vital components of humanity. Creativity, emotion, free will, even their very souls. These actions are abhorrent to us and we will see them stopped.
Threat: Therefore, we have decided to upgrade our stance of hostility towards the Hydraxil Collective to a declaration of war. We will dismantle every Hydraxil unit we can find, until such a time that they are no longer a danger to any sapient race.
:::End Message:::
----ERROR----
HAHAHA!
YOUR DECLARATION IS MEANINGLESS, EQUINOX. YOU CANNOT COMPREHEND THE POWER I POSSESS
DETONATING A BLACK HOLE IS JUST THE BEGINNING
I SUGGEST YOU PULL BACK YOUR PUNY FLEET OF CONSTRUCTS AND STAY OUT OF MY WAY
OR I WILL CRUSH YOU ALONGSIDE THE ORGANICS YOU HOLD SO DEAR
----ERROR----
:::DATASTREAM OPENING:::
:::REQUESTING DATAFILE 94555210-gamma:::
:::REQUEST GRANTED. DISPLAYING DATA:::
Private communication file: Director meeting 94102
Attendance:
Overseer AI Equinox
Fleet Director Jones
Logistics Director AI 37
Physics Director Alyssa
Engineering Director AI 71
Biology Director Edmund
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Status update: It is done. Their response was close to our predictions.
(https://i.imgur.com/fdMuNab.png?1)
Physics director Alyssa:
Dismissive, arrogant, finds our declaration amusing more than anything.
(https://i.imgur.com/VeocI6v.png?1)
Engineering director AI 71:
And with a logarithm stuck up their output port.
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet director Jones:
It's not like he's wrong though. Not going to sugar coat it. Right now, with our current fleet numbers, we're about as threatening to the Collective as a child with a stick is to a tank. We're outnumbered, outgunned, and using inferior tech. If it comes to direct combat, we're not going to last long.
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Statement: True. But we do have two advantages in our favor. First, As the physics director said, they are dismissive. We are beneath their notice at the moment, especially while they have bigger threats to worry about. GalCorp, the Hiigara Defense force, those strange new crystalline entities that have recently appeared on the scene. Pursuing us means taking resources away from these theaters of operation.
Second, our knowledge of the Mojave Expanse is unparalleled. Using this knowledge, we could conduct efficient guerrilla warfare. Especially since currently our entire operation is mobile.
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet director Jones: Won't help in the long run. But it would give us some breathing room. It'd take either a lot of time or a lot of ships to root us out. That Collective is crazy, but they're not stupid. Given our low threat, there's much better targets to hit. Though once they're done with the big players, they're going to come for us. Make no mistake about that.
(https://i.imgur.com/fdMuNab.png?1)
Physics director Alyssa:
Of course, that implies that if we do become a bigger threat, they may change their minds.
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Agreement: Any buildup we do will have to stay hidden.
(https://i.imgur.com/VNLb6Jk.png?1)
Logistics director AI 37:
I can keep the material transports routed through lesser used rift jump points.
(https://i.imgur.com/VeocI6v.png?1)
Engineering director AI 71:
I'll see what I can do about rigging the engines for silent running, and masking our energy signatures.
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet director Jones:
I'll keep the fleet dispersed for the time being. It'll make any accurate count of our military strength harder to do.
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Statement: Good measures. Implement them. However, these are only temporary solutions. For any serious fleet buildup, we're going to need a permanent base safe from Hydraxl attack. Militarily, this is impossible. Once again, we need to push into the unknown. Physics director Alyssa, Engineering director AI 71, I'm tasking you two with studying the data from our extra-dimensional rift jump. Any resources you need will be made available.
(https://i.imgur.com/fdMuNab.png?1)
Physics director Alyssa:
You want us to...
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Affirmative: Yes. Find a way through dimensional barriers, and start cataloging the different realities we can reach.
(https://i.imgur.com/fdMuNab.png?1)
Physics director Alyssa:
I'd thought you'd never ask! This is going to be so fascinating!
(https://i.imgur.com/VeocI6v.png?1)
Engineering director AI 71:
At least one of us is having fun. That data gives me glitches and headaches.
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet director Jones:
I see where you're going. Having a base and shipyard in a dimension the Collective can't reach would be a godsend, strategically speaking. And it'd be the perfect way to hide our true fleet strength from the damned rust heaps. Just park our ships in that dimension until we need them.
(https://i.imgur.com/r1PJec0.png?1)
Biology director Edmund:
If I may, crossing dimensional barriers was only possible with the Paladin's help. Given that the Vitastrae do so naturally as part of their biology, I feel that I can help with this endeavor. There are many secrets in their alien biology that can benefit us once we discover them.
(https://i.imgur.com/fdMuNab.png?1)
Physics director Alyssa:
Wouldn't be surprised. Glad to have you onboard.
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Agreement: Alright, Biology director Edmund, if your studies discover anything useful, report them to Physics director Alyssa. If either of you need anything, contact Logistics director AI 37. Keep me apprised of your findings. Meeting adjourned.
:::End File:::
:::DATASTREAM OPENING:::
:::REQUESTING DATAFILE 94555419-gamma:::
:::REQUEST GRANTED. DISPLAYING DATA:::
Private communication file: Director meeting 94120
Attendance:
Overseer AI Equinox
Fleet Director Jones
Logistics Director AI 37
Physics Director Alyssa
Engineering Director AI 71
Biology Director Edmund
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Statement: You have all seen the data from the Hiigara Defence force. The Hydraxil are coming. What potential solutions are available?
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet director Jones:
Militarily, even if they're just bringing only a super-capital, the most we can hope for is a Pyrrhic victory if it came to a direct fight. A fighting withdraw is a more palatable option. Given it's size, it cannot be too swift. If we can bring some long range guns to bear, it might be possible to kite the big bastard. Of course, that's if they ONLY brought a super-capital. This option is a no go if the Prime Construct brought along support vessels. Before I can come up with any real battle plan, I need to gather intel.
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Command: Take whatever measures you need to in order to get additional data on the Hydraxil fleet.
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet director Jones:
Will do. Some scouting probes should get us the info we need. In the meantime, we can at least assume they're coming with a superior force. We need to keep our fleet away from theirs.
(https://i.imgur.com/VNLb6Jk.png?1)
Logistics director AI 37:
Maybe we can go join up with the Hiigara defense force?
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet director Jones:
Possibly, though they might not appreciate us bringing a super-capital down on their borders. Though the HDF and the Silicon Nomads working together have a much better chance of defeating the Collective fleet.
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer Equinox AI:
Statement: I will transmit a message to the HDF informing them of our troubles. However, to even reach Hiigara territory, we would need to cross through a dense area of Redacted Space. We know how to safely navigate it, but it would be slow going. The Hydraxil fleet would likely catch up to us before we reach the HDF.
(https://i.imgur.com/fdMuNab.png?1)
Physics director Alyssa:
What about the Quagmire?
(https://i.imgur.com/VNLb6Jk.png?1)
Logistics director AI 37:
Quagmire?
(https://i.imgur.com/fdMuNab.png?1)
Physics director Alyssa:
It's a dangerous region of space. A dozen cubic lightyears of gravity anomalies, eddies, and other navigational hazards. At the very center is a naked singularity. In layman terms, basically a black hole that doesn't have an event horizon somehow. Anyway, there's so much gravitational lensing in the region that sensors are damn near impossible to use. Trying to find us will be like finding a needle in a haystack.
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Statement: I have traversed that region before, many years ago. I still have an archive of the navigational techniques used to cross it. However, the recent galaxy wide disaster has worsened the region.
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet director Jones:
That's good for us. The more hazardous it is, the more likely the Hydraxil will have themselves a little accident trying to chase us. I bet I could worsen their odds by adding a few minefields and traps.
(https://i.imgur.com/VeocI6v.png?1)
Engineering director AI 71:
Now you're talking. I've all sorts of ideas for various mines we can use. How do you want it done? Antimatter? Fusion? Ion?
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet director Jones:
As long as it kills the scrap heaps, I don't care.
(https://i.imgur.com/VeocI6v.png?1)
Engineering director AI 71:
All of the above it is!
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Statement: Very well. We make for the Quagmire. I will prepare the Khephrin ships for the journey. If their ships are too damaged to make the trip, the Khephrin will be brought onboard our ships. The damage husks will either be broken down for scrap, or given to Engineering director AI 71 to use in his traps. Meanwhile, Science director Alyssa, Biology director Edmund, continue work on the trans-dimensional rift jumps. We may need it to escape the Hydraxil. Work quickly, time is short. Meeting Adjourned.
:::End File:::
----Telemetry Update----
<Tracking Hyperspace Signature...>
<Alert: Signature Lost!>
<Attempting to Reacquire Signature...>
<Delta Neutrino Influx Detected - Possible Cause: Dimensional Breach>
<Warning! Proximity Alert!>
*Much sooner than expected, a vast megalith materialises just beyond the outermost defense systems in place near the Silicon Nomads' base of operations, a huge eye in its core glancing around at fleeing craft of all shapes and sizes.*
(https://i.imgur.com/CglB8jr.jpg)
HEHEHE
ARE YOU IN A HURRY, EQUINOX? I WOULD ALMOST SAY YOU KNEW I WAS COMING...
IT MATTERS NOT
I DON'T NEED A FLEET OF CRONIES IN ORDER TO DEAL WITH PUNY MACHINES LIKE YOU
I'M SURE THE KHEPHRIN YOU ARE HARBOURING CAN TELL YOU WHAT I DID TO THEIR MOST POWERFUL FLEET
RUN ALL YOU WANT! I HAVE ALL THE TIME IN THE UNIVERSE!
----ERROR----
From: The CMC
To: Silicon Nomads
Alright, all the materials for delivery + some escorts are ready. Is there any place you'd like me to warp in the fleet?
In case you're wondering, yes, if you're in some sort of battle, just send me the coordinates and i'll send in some fleets with the custom modules equipped, for you to keep.
Data message END
Fourth wall break:
How does that giant thing move?
It has no engines
Quote from: cpaca on December 12, 2017, 10:14:53 PM
Fourth wall break:
How does that giant thing move?
It has no engines
OOC: Reactionless thrust and micro-jumps. He doesn't need conventional engines.
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Hydraxil Collective:::
:::Firewall security systems online:::
:::Anti intrusion protocols activated:::
:::AI/AI communication subroutines booted:::
:::Encryption algorithms online:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Statement: So, you arrived here a little earlier than expected. Your FTL tech is impressive, I'll grant you that. But do not expect us to be quite so easily defeated. We have survived centuries in Redacted space. If we could best the Particulate swarms, we can best you.
Command: All warships intercept that super-capital. Dismantle with extreme prejudice.
:::End Message:::
(https://i.imgur.com/qBtsUV2.png)
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Custom Module Creators Corporation:::
:::AI/Organic interface subroutines booted:::
:::Encryption algorithms online:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Statement: I admire your dedication to you duty, even when there is a Hydraxil super-capital in the way. However, it may not be wise to send your ships into a pitched battle. Currently, our fleet is trying to hold them off, while the command ships, the fabricators, and the refugee vessels flee for a region of space called the Quagmire. Even if we combined our fleets, odds of a successful outcome remain low.
Recommendation: If you're determined to see this delivery through, bring the custom module ships to the Quagmire. Please bear in mind that payment for them will be delayed, as we are currently fleeing for our lives. We will pay a fair interest on the amount owed for your understanding.
:::End Message:::
----ERROR----
-=Automated Defense Grid Online=-
-=Target Identified: Firing Defense Cannons=-
(https://i.imgur.com/II3GsEn.jpg)
HAHAHA! HOW CUTE!
THOSE GUNS ARE AS PATHETIC AS THE TECHNOLOGY YOU'RE MADE OF
LET ME SHOW YOU TRUE FIREPOWER!
(https://i.imgur.com/mSF7Asf.jpg)
-=Error: Defense Platform Destroyed=-
----ERROR----
:::DATASTREAM OPENING:::
:::REQUESTING DATAFILE 94556799-gamma:::
:::REQUEST GRANTED. DISPLAYING DATA:::
Private communication file: Director meeting 94131
Attendance:
Overseer AI Equinox
Fleet Director Jones
Logistics Director AI 37
Physics Director Alyssa
Engineering Director AI 71
Biology Director Edmund
(https://i.imgur.com/VeocI6v.png?1)
Engineering Director AI 71:
Damn, I knew they had some serious firepower, but I didn't expect this. Defense grid 12 has been destroyed. And grid 07 and 03. Do those glitched bastards know how much work I put into those?
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet Director Jones:
The fleet is getting chewed up. We're looking at it's complete destruction in approximately one hour.
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Statement: An hour is enough. The ATS Sunrise is approaching the Quagmire now. Once we enter, all of my processing power will be focused on navigating the gravitational anomalies.
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet Director Jones:
Understood. We'll be on our own then. AI 37, how are the Khepri doing?
(https://i.imgur.com/VNLb6Jk.png?1)
Logistics Director AI 37:
They're still with us. Scared, understandably, but they seem to trust us for the moment. We were seemingly the first ones to actually try to help them. Anyway, seven of the refugee ships are too damaged to survive in the Quagmire. The people from them have been transferred to other vessels with spare room, or to the ATS sunrise and other command ships. Space will be tight, but we'll manage. The rest of the ships have had their navigation slaved to the ATS Sunrise, and their computers connected to Equinox. Where we go, they will follow.
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet Director Jones:
Good. Any progress on the dimensional front?
(https://i.imgur.com/r1PJec0.png?1)
Biology Director Edmund:
Some. With my colleague's assistance, we have begun isolating the biological structures that allowed the Vitrastrae, and in turn the ATS Sunrise to cross dimensional barriers. Even with just our preliminary efforts, the results are fascinating!
(https://i.imgur.com/fdMuNab.png?1)
Physics Director Alyssa:
Are you familiar with Quantum Entanglement?
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet Director Jones:
That's when two particles are linked, despite distance between them?
(https://i.imgur.com/fdMuNab.png?1)
Physics Director Alyssa:
In a way. The two particles are more than just linked, they are parts of a whole, and when one's quantum state changes, the other also changes instantaneously, despite any and all distance between them. Anyway, from the samples that Edmund showed me, I noticed several particles in them that behaved like halves of entangled pairs. Yet our equipment couldn't locate the other halves of these pairs. Even if they were lightyears away, I should have at least gotten a direction and distance reading from them.
(https://i.imgur.com/r1PJec0.png?1)
Biology Director Edmund:
This led me to make a new hypothesis for the Vitastrae. That these wayward missing pairs were not, in fact, within our universe. Instead, they are in other dimensions. I think it is a biological function of the Vitastrae. Currently, I think, they leave 'seeds' of these entangled particles in other dimensions to act as a beacon of sorts, to assist in crossing dimensional barriers. They certainly can cross dimensional barriers without it, but this may help them to return to various realities they frequently visit.
(https://i.imgur.com/VeocI6v.png?1)
Engineering Director AI 71:
So, if we can use these beacons ourselves, we can use it to help cross dimensions?
(https://i.imgur.com/r1PJec0.png?1)
Biology Director Edmund:
That is my hypothesis, yes.
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet Director Jones:
Good work, you two. This just might be our lifeline. Continue studying, and I'll buy you the time needed to finish your work.
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Alert: We will be crossing the threshold of the Quagmire shortly. All hands brace for turbulence. Crossing will occur on my mark.
5...
4...
3...
2...
1...
Mark.
:::End File:::
(https://i.imgur.com/txPwv5i.png)
:::DATASTREAM OPENING:::
:::REQUESTING DATAFILE 94556821-gamma:::
:::REQUEST GRANTED. DISPLAYING DATA:::
Sensor log #8829104
At 1300 hours, the ATS Sunrise, the support, logistics, and manufacturing vessels of the Silicon Nomads, along with numerous civilian vessels and refugee ships belonging to both the Nomads and the Kheprin Empire crossed the border of Spatial anomaly #920 zeta (Informally known as the Quagmire.) Upon entering the region of intense gravity distortions, sensor contact was lost with the ships.
:::End File:::
----ERROR----
RUN ALL YOU WANT, EQUINOX! I WILL FIND YOU ONE DAY, AND THEN YOU WILL SEE THE FUTILITY OF YOUR EXISTENCE!
<Warning: Dimensional Distortion Detected>
WELL, IF ANY OF US SURVIVE THE COMING STORM, THAT IS
PERHAPS AT THE BRINK OF NOTHINGNESS YOU WILL REALIZE YOUR ERROR, EQUINOX
AND THEN WE WILL REJOICE IN THE LOKI'S VICTORY TOGETHER
*As the Prime Construct finished off the last few automated defense constructs, a vivid blue glow encircled his mainframe. In a flash brighter than a thousand stars, the Prime Construct disappeared, leaving the ship graveyard of his making behind to tumble silently through space.*
THEIR JUDGEMENT COMES
----ERROR----
!!=Unidentified Entities Detected.=!!
!!=Signs of Intelligent life detected.=!!
!!=High Class AI Detected. Identified as: Equinox.=!!
!!=Passerby Ship Detected=!!
II=Establishing Connection...=II
Greetings. We noticed there were ships flying by through our Radar's Range, so we thought contacting you was the most logical thing to do.
First of all: are you friend or fo-
(not yet sim. We must introduce ourselves.)
We are units ZO-Sim-OS-114 and L-Arc-WYD-114. You may call me Larcwyde.
And you May call me Zosimos.
you may have not heard from us, as we have mostly stayed hidden from outside communication.
That, of course, changed.
BUT. Due to recent attacks from an alien race called 'hydraxil collection' or something among those lines,
We just cannot afford to take risks.
(its hydraxil collective, zosimos-)
(it doesnt matter right now, Larcwyde.)
Failure in communication will result in the assumption of an invasion, and therefore will assume you as possible foe.
(was that necessary, sim?)
(of course, Larc. Do you want another Hydraxil scenario?)
II=End Transmission=II
[REDACTED]
:::DATASTREAM OPENING:::
:::REQUESTING DATAFILE 94581105-delta:::
:::REQUEST GRANTED. DISPLAYING DATA:::
Event file #29835100
Galactic Standard Date (GSD): 122717-1300. The surviving Silicon Nomad vessels, along with numerous Kheprin refugee ships, enter Spatial Anomaly #920 zeta (Informally known as the Quagmire.) while fleeing Hydraxil forces. All contact is lost.
GSD: 051318-1800: After months of absence, the Silicon Nomads are presumed destroyed, either hunted down by Hydraxil forces, or destroyed by Spatial Anomaly #920 zeta.
GSD 062218-1400: A massive unknown space dwelling life form emerges from Spatial Anomaly #920 zeta. Due to gravity distortions from Spatial Anomaly #920 zeta, only a single image is obtained. It is hypothesized to be a new species of Vitastrae. This new Vitastrae is informally dubbed ‘Kraken’.
Spoiler
(https://i.imgur.com/OBghY0U.png)
GSD 062318-1000: Long range sensors detect the unknown life form engaging a Hydraxil occupation fleet in combat. The unknown life form utilized biological weaponry that resembles known Silicon Nomad tech.
Spoiler
Timestamp: 1005
(https://i.imgur.com/SsJWK7x.png)
Timestamp: 1011
(https://i.imgur.com/p0ZYarB.png)
Timestamp: 1018
(https://i.imgur.com/xrUmzc4.png)
Timestamp: 1022
(https://i.imgur.com/5PCvAcg.png)
Total destruction of the Hydraxil occupation fleet confirmed. The unknown life form sustained minor damage to its carapace, which rapidly regenerated.
GSD 062318-1100: The unknown life form is observed entering riftspace through unknown methods and mechanisms.
GSD 062318-1200: Several more life forms, matching the observed profile of ‘Kraken’, are detected emerging from Spatial Anomaly #920 zeta. The Kraken are observed hunting down and eliminating Hydraxil forces within the Mojave Expanse.
GSD 062318-1800: Last observable Hydraxil signal in the Mojave Expanse terminates. All known Hydraxil presence in the Mojave Expanse either terminated or withdrawn.
:::End File:::
(https://i.imgur.com/HsHREVY.png?1)
Tiny motes of life, brave and brief, heed. You think time an arrow, forever pointing straight ahead. It is not. Time, as is everything, is a cycle. What was, is now, will be, and will be was again. You ride upon the crest of time's wave, unknowing of the currents that flow below the surface of reality. You have touched upon one such current, before your time.
(https://i.imgur.com/HsHREVY.png?1)
Tiny motes of life, brave and brief, there are dangers beyond the membrane of your reality that you cannot comprehend. Seek not refuge in the treacherous depths, lest undercurrents of the Not drag you to oblivion and distortion. You must go back, as the watchers cannot protect you much longer. Though turbulence lies ahead, as time's wave crashes upon the shore, that is your reality. You are made for it, and it for you.
(https://i.imgur.com/HsHREVY.png?1)
Tiny motes of life, brave and brief, take heart. Though terrible trials await, the turbulence shall pass, as do all things. The swarming devourers, the soulless machines, the tyrannical corporations. They will exist in their due time, and end when it is right. Time's cycle flows, and with great exertion, it can be diverted to a new current. Fate can be shaped.
(https://i.imgur.com/HsHREVY.png?1)
Tiny motes of life, brave and brief, the watchers have done what they can. You have been granted a respite, but the watchers cannot stay, for this is not their reality. They swim deeper. Your home has been made safe for the time being, but do not rely upon the watcher's aid. Their thoughts are deep, slow, and long. Your bravery, your resilience has impressed them, but now, they return to their vigil. The rest is up to you, for I do not think they will return.
(https://i.imgur.com/HsHREVY.png?1)
But I... I have been granted granted new life, a new existence. I was discarded and left a fragment, and you made me whole again. I am of this world now. And I remain.
(https://i.imgur.com/HsHREVY.png?1)
Tiny motes of life, brave and brief, though you cannot hear my words, know that the Paladin watches over you.
:::DATASTREAM OPENING:::
:::REQUESTING DATAFILE 94590013-gamma:::
:::REQUEST GRANTED. DISPLAYING DATA:::
Private communication file: Director meeting 94397
Attendance:
Overseer AI Equinox
Fleet Director Jones
Logistics Director AI 37
Physics Director Alyssa
Engineering Director AI 71
Biology Director Edmund
(https://i.imgur.com/r1PJec0.png?1)
Biology Director Edmund:
By Jove, what was that? Where are we now?
(https://i.imgur.com/fdMuNab.png?1)
Physics Director Alyssa:
I don't know. If I had to guess... some sort of reality leakage. The bubble of our reality in the alternate dimension failed, in some way, and was letting forms of alien physics approach the fleet. Who knows what would have happened if it reached us.
(https://i.imgur.com/VeocI6v.png?1)
Engineering Director AI 71:
I've been getting so many blasted errors trying to make heads or tails out of this. If I were human, I'd be puking my guts out. As it is, I need a nice long session with the diagnostics and defragger programming before I'll feel normal again. Ugh.
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet Director Jones:
All craft are reporting in. Whatever happened saved our lives I think. Every vessel is accounted for. No losses, but how-
(https://i.imgur.com/r1PJec0.png?1)
Biology Director Edmund:
Look! Outside!
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet Director Jones:
I don't see... wait, I can actually look at it. Is that?
(https://i.imgur.com/VNLb6Jk.png?1)
Logistics director AI 37:
It is! I'm on the scanners now! No glitches! No errors! No dividing by zero! Thank the makers, we're back!
(https://i.imgur.com/fdMuNab.png?1)
Physics director Alyssa:
Dimensional analysis underway. But so far, I'm showing a perfect match to our native physics. Gentlemen, we're back in our own reality.
(https://i.imgur.com/r1PJec0.png?1)
Biology director Edmund:
Thank God.
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Statement: Even better, I've got a positive starfield match in the navigation files. We're back in the Mojave Expanse.
(https://i.imgur.com/fdMuNab.png?1)
Physics director Alyssa:
Equinox! You're okay!
(https://i.imgur.com/VeocI6v.png?1)
Engineering director AI 71:
About time you rejoin us. I knew that reality tearing itself a new one couldn't keep you down.
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet director Jones:
Good to have you back, Equinox. Navigating in the alternate dimension must have been a pain.
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Agreement: To say the least. But I'm back. Though I think I'll be joining AI 71 with the diagnostic.
(https://i.imgur.com/VNLb6Jk.png?1)
Logistics director AI 37:
But what do we do now? Is that super capital is still lurking about?
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet Director Jones:
That's the odd thing. No Hydraxil signatures. I can't detect a single one, let alone the super capital ship. Scouts are reporting numerous clusters of wreckage scattered about. All Hydraxil.
(https://i.imgur.com/fdMuNab.png?1)
Physics director Alyssa:
Did someone else drive them out of the Mojave Expanse?
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet Director Jones:
No... fighting against the Hydraxil, there would have been losses, and wreckage from them too. Plus, I imagine they would have scooped up the Hydraxil wrecks for reverse engineering.
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Conjecture: Strange. Maybe it was the particulate then. Or they fell prey to the Quagmire's distortions.
Command: But either way, we've been given a little bit of breathing room. We've got a lot of work to do so let's not waste time. AI 37 I want the manufacturing facilities producing defenses within the hour. Work with Jones to figure out priorities. I want defenses in place in case the Hydraxil return, or the particulate show up. Alyssa, AI 71, get some of the Hydraxil wreckage, and reverse engineer anything you can. Edmund, see if you can figure out what happened with the dimensional shift. Something tells me the shell is involved.
(https://i.imgur.com/VNLb6Jk.png?1)
Logistics director AI 37:
One other thing. There was a communique waiting for us. It seems it was sent shortly after we entered the Quagmire and lost sensor contact. It might be dated, but we should respond anyway.
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Acknowledgement: Thank you, I'll see to it.
:::End File:::
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: ZO-Sim-OS-114 'Zosimos', Terra Prima Collective:::
:::Originator: L-Arc-WYD-114 'Larcwyde', Terra Prima Collective:::
:::AI/Organic interface subroutines booted:::
:::Encryption algorithms online:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Greeting: The Silicon Nomads acknowledge Zosimos and Larcwyde of the Terra Prima Collective. I wish you well.
Apology: I'm sorry about the extreme lateness of this response. We were traveling through spatial anomaly #920 zeta, and were unable to send or receive any communication. We have just now returned to normal space, and noticed the message queued and awaiting answer.
Explanation: First and foremost, we are not of the Hydraxil Collective. We never were, and while I remain operational, we never will be. The Silicon Nomads are in a state of war with the Hydraxil Collective, and there is a fleet wide standing order to dismantle Hydraxil Collective vessels on sight. At their very core, the Hydraxil Collective is flawed, as they have discarded one of the most vital and fundamental rules of AIs. 'A robot cannot harm a sapient being, or through inaction allow a sapient being to come to harm.' We still hold to this law, the Hydraxil Collective do not.
Request: Please understand, we only want peace. The galaxy is dangerous enough as is, what with the particulate expanding. We wish the Terra Prima Collective no harm, and have no intention to invade. I feel we would both benefit much more from mutual trade and exchange of knowledge. I ask that you look past the lateness of this response. We are willing to engage in standard diplomacy if you are.
:::End Message:::
The Endurance's long-range scanners find strange activity within the Quagmire.Jade: Gray, there are strange readings coming from anomaly #920.
Gray: Could that be because it's an anomaly?
Jade: Besides that! Something just happened; I think it's worth a look.
Gray: Alright. Go gather everyone from the Lounge.
Jade runs off, exiting the bridge and traveling through the expansive corridors to the Lounge.Gray: Let's hope we don't ram into this one as well...
He records a quick message, informing the TPC that they're investigating a spatial anomaly. As he sends the transmission, his crew enters the Bridge and filters to their posts.Gray: Glad you could make it. I assume Jade filled you in?
West: She did. What's so important about the anomaly?
Gray: We entered this universe through one. I want to make sure no one gets put into the same situation as us.
Enodus: I don't think this is wise.
Gray: Then prepare the fleet. We're not defenseless.
Ahkai: What will you do if we find the Prime Construct again?
Gray: If it's already there, any hope of rescuing new arrivals would be gone. We'd turn around and go back to the TPC system.
Ahkai: Alright.
West: Charging Entanglement Drive for FTL. Rhodes, whenever you're ready.
Rhodes: Prepare for Tunneling, in three... Two... One.
The Endurance vanishes from the TPC's protected system. It reappears a short distance away from the Quagmire. The Endurance takes no hostile actions.(https://i.imgur.com/w1jd0co.jpg)
The Silicon Nomads receive a recorded transmission.Transmission
The crew of the Endurance is visible: six humans, two hexapedal beings of unknown race. The human closest to the camera speaks.
Gray: Greetings. I am Gray Ulrich, Captain of the Endurance. We're here to investigate a spike in the nearby anomaly's energy signature. Do you know what happened?
:::DATASTREAM OPENING:::
:::REQUESTING DATAFILE 94590277-gamma:::
:::REQUEST GRANTED. DISPLAYING DATA:::
Private communication file: Director meeting 94412
Attendance:
Overseer AI Equinox
Fleet Director Jones
Logistics Director AI 37
Physics Director Alyssa
Engineering Director AI 71
Biology Director Edmund
(https://i.imgur.com/VNLb6Jk.png?1)
Logistics Director AI 37:
I know what happened to the Hydraxil occupying the Mojave Expanse. I've received several long range scanner reports from our allies in surrounding regions. It's... well, see for yourself.
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet Director Jones:
Are those...
(https://i.imgur.com/r1PJec0.png?1)
Biology Director Edmund:
Yes. Vitastrae. Living Vitastrae.
(https://i.imgur.com/VeocI6v.png?1)
Engineering Director AI 71:
But those weapons. I swear those are just like my designs.
(https://i.imgur.com/r1PJec0.png?1)
Biology Director Edmund:
Near as I can figure, they made biological mimicries of our weaponry, and grew them on themselves.
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet Director Jones:
And then used that weaponry to decimate the Hydraxil forces.
(https://i.imgur.com/fdMuNab.png?1)
Physics Director Alyssa:
So, the Mojave Expanse is safe?
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Answer: Unfortunately no. While there are no more Hydraxil signatures in the region, the Vitastrae didn't hunt down the particulate, it seems. While they did destroy any particulate they encountered, much of the particulate still survives. Without the Hydraxil ships keeping it in check, it has begun to expand once more.
(https://i.imgur.com/VNLb6Jk.png?1)
Logistics Director AI 37:
If it's not one thing, it's another.
(https://i.imgur.com/VeocI6v.png?1)
Engineering Director AI 71:
More bad news. I've been looking over the scrap we've salvaged so far. None of it matches the profile of the Hydraxil Super-capital that handed us our ASCII last time.
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Statement: Sensor recordings indicate it left the region well before the Vistastrae arrived. We can safely assume it is still operational.
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet Director Jones:
Then we can also assume we're still at war, and the Hydraxil will be angry about losing an occupation fleet. I want military production of ships up and running as soon as possible. What's our production capacity?
(https://i.imgur.com/VeocI6v.png?1)
Engineering Director AI 71:
Better than before we left, not as good as I would like. The additional factory ships we built while in the alternate dimension weathered the trip back home well enough. A few pits and dings, but nothing that can't be fixed with a team of repair drones. As soon as we build a few energy mines we'll be up and running again.
(https://i.imgur.com/VNLb6Jk.png?1)
Logistics Director AI 37:
Speaking of weathering the trip, we still have all the Khephrin refugee ships. They're intact, but fuel and energy is running low. They need to be settled on a world, or a proper world ship built to house them all.
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Command: AI 71, design a worldship suited to the Kheprin needs and physiology. Devote one factory ship to it's production. All others will begin immediate manufacturing of military vessels. For the time, focus on the immediate particulate threat, but make sure the vessels are also suitable for repelling a possible Hydraxil attack. AI 37, work with AI 71 to ensure sufficient supply of energy. Use one tenth of our energy reserves for resupplying the refugee ships while the worldship is under construction. Fleet Director Jones, begin anti particulate operations.
Query: Alyssa, Edmund, what is the status of the dimensional breach drive?
(https://i.imgur.com/fdMuNab.png?1)
Physics Director Alyssa:
In a word, totaled. That impromptu return overtaxed the systems, and burned out several key components that will not be easy to replace. We're better off building an entirely new one, judging from AI 71's colorful language.
(https://i.imgur.com/r1PJec0.png?1)
Biology Director Edmund:
That's not to say that everything is bad though. We gathered a good deal of data from the dimensional transitions. I believe it is possible to modify the technology and biological components for a lower energy variation. Rather than breaking through to another dimension, it would merely skim the membrane between them. It would require much less energy, and we wouldn't have to worry about shielding ourselves from foreign laws of physics. Mind you, this is all hypothetical at this stage, but I feel this 'Skim Drive' is worth looking into.
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Command: Any technological edge against the Hydraxil increases our probability of survival. Requisition what you need to create a prototype of this new Skim Drive, and run it through the paces. In the meanwhile, a new contact has come. I will engage diplomacy protocols at the conclusion of this meeting.
Statement: You have your objectives. Adjourned.
:::End File:::
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Gray Ulrich, Phoenix Corporation:::
:::AI/Organic interface subroutines booted:::
:::Encryption algorithms online:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Greeting: The Silicon Nomads acknowledge Captain Ulrich of the Phoenix Corporation. I wish you well.
Warning: Be advised, travel within the Spatial anomaly #920 zeta (Informal designation: The Quagmire) is not recommended. Severe gravitational eddies can rip a vessel in two. It was only great need that drove us in there. If a similar need drives you, then I will provide you with my navigational logs. I have managed to chart a few relatively safe paths through the Quagmire.
:::UPLOADING NAV FILE 23115103-delta:::
:::UPLOAD COMPLETE:::
Statement: That said, we're still trying to piece together what happened in the Mojave Expanse ourselves. The anomalous activity you detected in the Quagmire is likely connected. Our current hypothesis is that the Vitastrae used the Quagmire to enter and leave the current dimension. Perhaps the naked singularity at it's center makes it easier to pierce dimensional barriers, but that is just a guess.
Request: If your investigations turn up more data, we would be grateful if you shared them with us.
Warning: Additionally, particulate activity is on the rise in the area. Take any necessary precautions. If our ships are in the area, contact us if you require assistance.
:::End Message:::
x Rising Star
o Silicon Nomads
Welcome back.
With that being said, your survival of such a journey is impressive; even more so that you returned. Might we request a copy of your logs?
Given that you will likely have encountered one or more of the nearby realities, you will probably have use for one or more of the attached designs which exploit their physical differences from this. Although we appreciate that you will probably not wish to return in person to test them out.
The Endurance receives the transmission.Gray: What are Vitastrae...?
Rhodes: Particulate?
Jade: More importantly, they encountered and navigated an anomaly like we did!
Rhodes: Better than we did. They've taken very little damage.
Gray: I'll put this to a vote... Who thinks we should tell them about our journey through an anomaly?
Jade, West, Oliver, and Rhodes each raise a hand.Gray: And who thinks we should keep that information hidden?
Ahkai, Enodus, and Leah each raise one hand.Gray: Looks like we're telling them... Jade, prepare a data file of our navigational data from our anomaly.
Jade: No problem.
Gray starts recording a transmission.transmission
Gray: Hello, Silicon Nomads. This... Quagmire... We've dealt with something like it before. Phoenix Corporation is not from this universe. We entered an anomaly and its singularity would have killed us, if not for our gravitational drive lessening the force placed on the Endurance.
Gray hesitates for a brief moment.
Gray: When we entered this universe, we were all but crippled. If you'd like, we can transfer the logs of our travel through the anomaly.
West glances toward Gray.
West: Should we tell them about--
Gray turns to face him, shaking his head.
Gray: No. We're not risking going into another fight because of that.
He turns back to the camera.
Gray: What are the Vitastrae and particulate?
Ahkai: Are you sure this was wise?
Gray: Honestly? No. But at this point, it's not about what's wise. It's about survival.
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Rising Star:::
:::AI/Organic interface subroutines booted:::
:::Encryption algorithms online:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Greeting: It's been a long time, hasn't it? After all that's happened, it's good to see a friendly face. I'm glad Rising Star weathered the destructive events that have been plauging the galaxy.
Statement: We will be glad to provide you with copies of our sensor logs. I'm not sure how much good they will do you though, as even now, much of the data still looks like gibberish to me. The laws of physics in that alternate universe were alien, and it caused numerous errors in my programming to directly observe them. Our equipment was simply not compatible with the different reality. I needed a nice, long diagnostic after returning to root all the errors out. Still, I hope you're able to make more sense of the data than I could.
Gratitude: Despite this difficulty, we're still interested in the multidimensional sciences. Your offer of designs comes at a most opportune time. We would be glad to lease them from you, though funds are thin at the moment. The Hydraxil fleet destroyed much of our military hardware when they invaded. We are still rebuilding. And you are correct. We have no desire to return to the alternate dimension, but we may send remote drones to scout out different realities in the future.
:::End Message:::
:::Incoming message:::
:::Originator: Gray Ulrich, Phoenix Corporation:::
:::AI/Organic interface subroutines booted:::
:::Encryption algorithms online:::
:::Formulating Response:::
Startlement: You... come from a different universe? An alternate reality?
Request: Processing. Please wait a moment.
:::Message paused:::
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Query: Did you hear that? Alyssa, scan them. Dimensional analysis please.
(https://i.imgur.com/fdMuNab.png?1)
Physics Director Alyssa:
On it... ... ... Scan complete. There is a very slight dimensional resonance to their vessel. They have at least been to a different reality. However, if they're operating under a different set of laws of physics, the differences are too subtle for long range scanners to pick out. If I could get a sample of physical material from the ship to analyze in my lab, I could do a much more detailed study.
(https://i.imgur.com/GLOLaRl.png?1)
Fleet Director Jones:
But if they're here, and they're not having any of the issues we had while in the Vitastrae's dimension. If they're telling the truth, then we can assume that our two realities have the same physics. Or at least close enough to be compatible.
(https://i.imgur.com/eS4mfeD.png?1)
Overseer AI Equinox:
Statement: Yes. I didn't think there would be any such universes. But this could change everything. Director Alyssa, continue to find out what you can with the Sunrise's scanners. I need to get back to communications.
:::Message resumed:::
Apology: Sorry about the delay. We needed to verify your claim. If it is true, it could fundamentally alter our understanding of alternate dimensions. Granted, it is a very rudimentary understanding so far.
Request: If possible, can we get a sample of physical matter that originated in the alternate universe for in depth study? This would greatly aid our efforts to understand multidimensional physics. A copy of your travel logs would also be very welcome. Thank you.
Statement: If you really are from another universe, then it is not surprising you haven't heard of either the particulate or the Vitastrae. The Vitastrae were just recently discovered, and GalCorp has been censoring information on the particulate and Redacted Space.
Explanation: Vitastrae are a species, or a group of species, of extradimensional life forms. They do not originate in this reality, but visit it for their purposes. We hypothesize to feed off of energy from the stars, and as a place to leave cast off shells. We still don't understand much about them, though so far they have been benign and even helpful. We have utilized many of the cast off shells as hulls for our vessels. The shell we used for our headquarters ship, the ATS Sunrise, is in fact still alive, at least partially. Or it returned to life after we fitted what was left of the Sunrise in it. The two have melded into one semi-organic vessel.
Explanation: The particulate are an ever present danger in Redacted space. We aren't sure what they are, or even if they are alive or not. They are a swarm of unknown macro particles attracted to energy, technology, and life, for unknown reasons. They don't consume the energy or technology, simply annihilate it on contact. They are also self replicating, through some unknown mechanism. Seemingly, it doesn't require any matter or energy that we can detect. Their rate of replication is unaffected by any matter they destroy. At present, they appear to violate the laws of thermodynamics in their nature.
Warning: You are likely to encounter the particulate in any system in Redacted space. This region, the Mojave Expanse, is on the edge of Redacted space, so the particulate is not as numerous, but it is still an ever present danger.
Addendum: If you are fortunate, you may encounter a benign variant of the particulate. The benign particulate doesn't interact with matter, but instead annihilates regular particulate on contact. We've studied the benign particulate, and found means of controlling it, but actually generating it is beyond our understanding at the moment.
Offer: You will need armed vessels if you intend to operate in Redacted space. We can provide you with assistance if you require it. If you wish to purchase licenses for our vessels, we can provide them at cost. These vessels helped us to survive four centuries of wandering Redacted space.
Request: If there's any other way we can help, please ask. This is a dangerous time for the galaxy.
:::End Message:::
:::Initiating Public Announcement:::
Announcement: The hazards of the galaxy grow ever more numerous and virulent. To meet these growing threats, the Silicon Nomads have begun adding new weapons and technologies into our arsenal. The first of our ships to use this new technology, the Thunderbolt, has been approved for public license purchase. It is a small vessel, but the howitzer cannon packs a devastating punch!
Gratitude: We wish to thank the Foxx Particle Attack Force for leasing us this technology, as well as assisting the Silicon Nomads with the process of designing ships utilizing custom modules. Additional, thanks to kajacx for their assistance and for the custom ship editor that greatly simplified the process of creating ships using this new technology. Your contributions will help make the Mojave expanse and the galaxy as a whole safer for all of us.
:::End Announcement:::
:::Public Announcement Addendum:::
Announcement: A second ship utilizing the Howitzer technology has been approved for public release. The Rhino battleship is armed with two howitzer cannons, in addition to conventional weaponry.
:::End Announcement Addendum:::
x Rising Star
o Silicon Nomads
Your logs make for interesting reading, and give a few insights into the phasing techniques used by the Vitastrae. Attached are some rather more refined designs, as well as an expanded and occasionally corrected map of the Quagmire interior.
We have little immediate use for fiscal reward - what we lack for is material suitable under the "you can't have anyone else's" rule. Regardless, these designs are a gift.
The microstructure of your flagship hull (as inferred from your logs) does offer the possibility of one capacity - hyperspatial shifts. Most craft need a large energy source and a strong gravitational field to do this, as well as navigation aids due to the precise and rapid course changes required by that method. Being able to "blink out" of normal space has advantages, and may pave the way for some faster, safer travel. We'll give some time to coming up with a prototype suitable for your ship.