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For House & Dominion: Eye of the Storm (9)

http://houseanddominion.wikia.com/wiki/House_%26_Dominion_Complete_Archive
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Dominion+quest

https://twitter.com/ThatSlowTypingG


You are Sonia Reynard, Viscount of Rioja and a member of House Jerik-Dremine!

Over the past few months your expedition has ventured into the depths of the Dyson Sphere in search of defense systems that would protect it from the Neeran fleet massed outside. Succeeding in finding the rapid transit system the team reached the edges of the polar region. There you eventually gained entrance with a small team.

The reduced Polar Team made their way into the lowest levels of the supposed regions hosing the sphere's control systems. There you found everything from remains of the long dead Anomalous Hazards team, to a small kingdom of primitive Kavarians.

Warning the Caretakers of the threat of infiltration had the unfortunate side effect of annoying them you'd entered the control region without permission. As a result you were supposed to be shipped back to the Alliance fleet along with the traitorous scientist Darweg Attir.

While waiting for secure communications with the Alliance fleet, the Neeran Empire apparently took a page out of your book. Breaching the lower levels of the polar region, several teams worked to draw the Caretakers away so a small group of commandos could get through.

With the help of Caretakers Uller and Rán your own team was able to equip new gear in the Caretakers own armory and pursue. Initially splitting up, half your team went with Uller to the manual controls for one of the sphere's wormhole gates. Your half went with Ran to the Manufacturing level where you soon encountered two enemy teams, one composed of Rovinar.

With the commando team managing to get past you Ran was able to quickly send a warning to the control center, blocking off routes to the higher levels. From there you linked up with Uller's team and both groups gave chase into the defense system chamber.

This was not to be as straight forward as it initially seemed. Time dilation was a factor, with time inside the chamber moving at slower rates than outside. Initially starting at a laughable one tenth of normal speed Uller warned this might worsen in places. Worsen it did, especially as the other Caretakers in the control room attempted to slow the enemy's progress.
Despite gravity waves and signs the time dilation was worsening by orders of magnitude you pressed on. In the end you defeated and captured a high ranking Neeran officer by the name of Thrivad, apparently a relative the local fleet commander, Girisha.

With the threat dealt with you exited the chamber only to be faced with the appalling realisation you'd been locked in battle for more than three years.
>>
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Fortunately not all the news has been bad. With the capture of Thrivad the Alliance and the Caretakers have a chance at driving off Girisha or depriving them of support. With the Dominion's help the Factions are pushing back the Neeran Empire seemingly on all fronts. You have a new indestructible arm along with the armor and artifacts given to you by Uller and Rán. You've even learned greater control of some artifacts thanks to the caretaker warrior Veur.

With your return as far as the Alliance is concerned you're owed about a year and a half of leave time. Intel has also been generous with the data modules you recovered with information on gravitational focusing and weather control systems. As long as you act quickly there shouldn't be any immediate competition as the Alliance will want to study their copies in detail first.

Heading for home you stop along the way to bail former Shallan Admiral Mezan and a few others out of prison. Apparently the military government ruling Shallan Space are becoming increasingly brutal in places to keep the civilians in line.

Arriving on Dreminth to a heartfelt reunion with family members you've been catching up and preparing for the holidays.
It's only 2 days before Christmas, 4038!
>>
Sorry that took so long, got a hell of a headache and have only just now banished it with pills.

Thanks to the anon who updated the wiki front page.

What presents are you getting for everybody?
>>
>>2457327
FOR HOUSE AND DOMINION:
Sonia loves her family edition.

Is Eldal okay? Safe? Free from being Krath mindwiped?
>>
>>2457329
For House and Dominion! Christmas in March edition!
>>
>>2457350
Beyond what we got for them last thread?

Not sure really, get our brother a geode?
>>
>>2457350
>What presents are you getting for everybody?
Including the things we got from the sphere for our family:

Mom: A new building? Maybe some kind of personal garden space?
Dad: Recovered early republic pen. I bet he needs some good stationery for all the logistics work.
Ethan: One of those repuslor gauntlets that let you throw things really far
Bekka: Not too sure what to get Bekka.
>>
>>2457350
> Troy Harmen

Marriage proposal.
>>
>>2457482

[Spoiler]Seconded [/spoiler]
>>
>>2457329
Seriously. Troy has kept up with us. Respects us. His house has ties to JD. We have 5%of the Harmen family stock they want back. His family is not just powerful but has old money which is a major issue within JD since we're new money. Also we have gotten along with him for longer than anyone else.

So politically it's both feasible and profitable. Personally he's the best option by far. Alex and Mike are too close it's weird. Linda is a bad, actually unacceptable political match and also can't keep up to our derring do.
>>
>>2457495

Ask him out on another mission? And see if he has any interest he wants to pursue? As much as I wanna pursue going with Troy. I'm sure has or at least HAD his eye on some other lady, before we kidnapped him for three years. He may think Sonia is not his type, or whatever.

But hey, got a year of down time we could work out whether or not a relationship would be feasible and work beyond the political.
>>
>>2457354
Eldal is okay, for now. Apparently he got off the ship in the Pandora Cluster leaving a letter that he would catch up aboard a fast transport.

Reading one of the intel updates from Vanderwal, he warns that if Eldal is with you not to bring him back to Rioja. Apparently a unit from the Krath government was looking for him there while you were gone. Vanderwal told them he'd ignore their local operations in return for some small favours.
>>
>>2457350
Oh, lets get mom a puzzle sort of like Svidur gave us. Only less secret/ classified info and not heavily encrypted. A puzzle with another puzzle to make a touching room sized hologram of the whole family when done?
>>
>>2457682
We already got a Neeran puzzlebox made of indestructium from the Sphere.
>>
>Could the caretakers modify the design for those self-refilling water battles into an automatically refilling coffee or tea bottle?
Not easily. The bottle itself would probably be something Dad might make use of.


>Bekka
Shield/staff similar to Uller's, though as previously mentioned she wouldn't be able to make the best use of it.
>Mom
A "thousand lifetimes" worth of puzzles from the sphere archives. Also an IOU if she wants to copy and sell some of them.
You contemplate buying her another building or nearby garden space but it might be best to let her decide if she really wants that.
>Dad
Matching set of pens from the early Republic. Also one of the water bottles since it's a bit of a curiosity.
>Ethan
A Swiss army knife made from sphere material.
Also a repuslor gauntlet to assist with throwing.

Linda is still in Shallan space or you'd send her an invite.
You offer Arron an invite but he passes, already having plans with other family members. That doesn't mean you cant send him a present.
Thoughts?

>Svidur
Location(s) of additional sphere builder installation.

>Winifred
>Daska
The old Republic pistol and stone Gladius I take it?
While they might not be the biggest weapon connoisseurs they do no antiques when they see them.
>>
>>2457959
I bet Avun would appreciate the stone gladius more.

>Linda
Should have got her an indestructible safety blanket. We know the Dyson Sphere can make things for war, but what about comfy?
>>
>>2457975
>Should have got her an indestructible safety blanket.
That doesn't sound like it would be very comfy.

>I bet Avun would appreciate the stone gladius more.
Probably. Did you have an idea for an alternate gift for one of the others?
>>
>>2457526
>As much as I wanna pursue going with Troy. I'm sure has or at least HAD his eye on some other lady, before we kidnapped him for three years.

A) It's a political marriage so the first consideration is about that. Pretty sure we are a competitive choice even before the whole "own 5% of their family corporation" being the terraforming company; said company being not only large and established, it is also almost exclusively consisting of family stockholders. In fact I believe that in addition to us being exceptional as the largest stockholder that isn't part of the Harmen family, they have an active interest in the voting rights from the stocks held by us to their family control.

Remember it was an exceptional payment in exchange for advanced technology re: terraforming that they otherwise wouldn't have access to.

So that 5% wasn't just expensive but normally nobody outside the family could even get it.

B) We're a political newcomer. So while we have financial and military status and influence, a large amount of our connections are personal and not influenced by historical affiliation nor familial obligation. So there's essentially no risk to a union but there's still our accolades and money.

TL;DR While normally it would be a scandal for new money/nobility joining the Harmen family, we have enough money and status from our military service to gloss that over.

Essentially, the Harmen family has everything we're missing politically, and we personally have not just the qualifications to silence opposition but personal connections and status to appeal to both the masses of JD as well as being nothing but beneficial to the Harmen Family politically and financially.

I feel like it's not unreasonable to say that we might be the opportunity for the Harmen Family to at the least profit, and possibly even start their own house separate from JD.
>>
>>2458045
>alternate gift for one of the others?
A plasma pistol if they're being produced in enough volume to be sold?

Are we going to need to visit a Kavos memorial or is he still hanging on?
>>
>>2458045
> Troy Harmen - propose marriage
>>
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>>2458081
>A plasma pistol if they're being produced in enough volume to be sold?
Might be possible. The Mark 7 series plasma pistol has seen more production while you were away than all the other models put together. Presumably the Alliance wants more in the field in time for the invasion.

Another weapon was delivered for you from R&D. It's another attempt at a Republic plasma rifle. Looks little bit like an airsoft SVD shape wise. Currently has issues with its effective range not being a huge improvement on the pistols. Maybe 30% longer at best.
>>
>>2457959
Or can I get a breakdown from our advisors about marriage prospects from a political/financial viewpoint?

Because it's been like 7 years real time and longer in game and I personally feel like this is something that should be coming up now.

While I would like to have some time spent on this, I also feel that we are in a position to not be tied down by it. So if it's just a nod towards the issue, after being gone for 3 years I imagine our house is *concerned* with the issue of us having an heir to our massive inheritance let alone our value as a political prospect for marriage.

Are we just intimidating to other nobles?
>>
>>2458166

Range may not be better, but I assume you have better stability, since it's a rifle.

>>2458077
You raise good valid points. It would be a great political marriage. But what about it being a more lasting thing? We know political marriages are okay for short term ie Winifrid and Archivald.

But what about being together longer? Do we want to get it for political reasons or because Troy and Sonia are good couple? Why I think have another 'mission' where Sonia and Troy just figure out if the two are better together or just hook up for a short instance like Winifrid and Archivald?
>>
>>2458166
That sounds awesome in any case.
>>
> Troy Harmen Marriage proposal.
So there is obviously some interest in this.

>Or can I get a breakdown from our advisors about marriage prospects from a political/financial viewpoint?
Fadila promises to prepare some relevant information for you to be ready after the holiday.

>Are we just intimidating to other nobles?
Yes, which is why there were only 3 suitors before the Civil War kicked into high gear. After your disappearance the one from House Ceres, Baron Vlegel, decided to investigate Bekka as a potential alternative.
He left South Reach having come to the conclusion that Bekka was an "Uncivilised brute."
Winifred apparently found this hilarious. No charges were laid.

>>2458205
>Range may not be better, but I assume you have better stability, since it's a rifle.
Yes.
>>
>>2458077
>and possibly even start their own house separate from JD.
Their family does have semi-strong connections to the Jerik family seeing as Loran was one of the more important systems in former House Jerik space.

Apparently some elements of the Harmen family once considered a coup to take control of the House if their terraforming proposal for the outer colonies had failed.
>>
For the first time in the history of ever you have all the gifts planned out and actually ready long before anyone else does. Technically a few years early in the case of a few of them if you count planning. That doesn't stop you from shopping for plenty of decoy presents. Someone will like them you're sure. Maybe you can donate them?

Jeez your personal guard probably need a bonus too while you're at it. Rufaro's parents are either on Rioja for some last minute work or one of the nearby systems. You make sure she has plenty of coms access. The holo drones like the one Bekka was mentioning are expensive but you consider them worth it with your level of income. You have one purchased and delivered to Rufaro's family in time.

Your other bodyguard is dressed... informally while you're out shopping. Shorts and a floral print T-shirt which if you had to guess were made out of armored nanoweave.

"Valeri what the hell are you wearing?"
"Doctors said I needed to keep my limbs uncovered for awhile because of some after effects of the suit."

"Was it really that bad or was it the injuries?"

"Partly because of the injuries, and because of how long I was using the suit in the field."
It was quite awhile.

"Valeri, Rufaro is taking time off for family, what about you?"
"I don't have any family left in the region that I'm still on good terms with. I'd rather stay on sir."

There's more than enough people with your personal and family guard units stationed on Dreminth that you could tell Valeri to take some time for himself. Even if you have to use the excuse of putting him on medical leave.

[ ] Tell him to take time off
[ ] If he really wants to stay on let him
>>
>>2458758
>[ ] If he really wants to stay on let him

So long as he's not doing this to avoid talking with his family. That he has not had any contact with for three years.
>>
>>2458758
>[ ] If he really wants to stay on let him
>>
>>2458758
>[x] If he really wants to stay on let him
Dude is committed, make it an unofficial vacation.
>>
You figure if he really wants to stay on let him.
"Just as long as you're not doing this just to avoid family."
Valeri replies that he's not.
He stands out a bit thanks to his choice of clothing, though you've seen worse. It's hard to make a real comparison to his usual preference for a Recon suit.

Back to shopping! You really wish Linda were here for this. This is the sort of thing she likes. At the very least it means you're able to spend some time with Mom. Dad and Ethan head off together to pick up a few last minute things.

"You've still got him following you around I see." says your mother nodding in Valeri's direction..
"Yes, he's my bodyguard. That's his job."
"Isn't he also the one that got you arrested?"
"I don't want to talk about that Mom." you warn her.
"I'm just saying you're more forgiving than I might have been."
"Thanks." you reply in a guarded tone, waiting to see if mom takes this any farther.
Luckily she doesn't and you're able to get on with shopping.

You manage to keep mom guessing with your purchases especially when maybe only one tenth of what you're buying would actually fit family members.
"What are you up to?"
"You'll see."
"That's not going to fit in the spare room."
"I do own a place on planet besides the lodge." you remind her. Or you did. The payments weren't that high, the company would have left it alone right?

Fortunately its still there and you have everything delivered so there'll be time to sort through it later. When Mom finishes you manage to get in some time with Ethan and Dad at the holoplex.

When finally showing up Christmas day mom is a bit skeptical of the wrapped gifts you've arrived with.

"Sonia, we saw you buying our gifts yesterday."
"Hah, I'm donating all that stuff to a local charity. Instead, I brought you these from far off places in distant galaxies."

Mom is unmoved by your assurances. "Just promise me they're not sculptures carved from the hulls of ships you blew up."
You're about to reply when she interrupts.
"Or salvaged!"

"Mmm, technically no?"
"Sonia I swear." she mutters under he breath.
>>
Everyone is quite surprised by the gifts you did get them. When Bekka calls you and Ethan hold up the (appropriately scaled) artifact weapon you got for her.
The first words out of your sister's mouth are; "That thing has a plasma cannon built into it!? I need to learn how to use that!"

"You had to get her a weapon didn't you." Mom accuses you in a tired voice.
"It's okay, I'm sure it could help out there." Dad assures her.

Her mood improves considerably after opening her own presents.
"These are puzzles?"
"Yep."
"Thank you!" Mom hugs you. "Thank you for not getting me something stupid."

Dad and Ethan both like their presents.

Your brother's gift for you is a carefully carved obsidian knife. It's very well made.
"You made this?"
"Yep. It took a long time too."

"I said you're not allowed to touch obsidian until after your next birthday." Mom reminds him.

"I didn't. I used a remote manipulator."
Mom stares at him.
"What? I didn't break any rules."
"You were breaking the spirit of the rules. I'm cutting your allowance."
"What?! Mom!"

[ ] Side with Ethan
[ ] Side with Mom
[ ] Neither. Thank him for the knife
>>
Resuming tomorrow.
Will run until 4:30 when I need to leave for work, then I'll be resuming monday.
>>
>>2459104

>"I didn't. I used a remote manipulator."

That sounds like something Sonia would do.

>[ ] Side with Ethan
>>
>>2459104
>[x] Side with Ethan
"He only programmed the robot to do the thing!"

I hope Sonia unironically bought a future-DVD player and the best magical girls Valeri could recommend, then had it sent to Ran and Uller.
>>
>>2459104
>[ ] Side with Ethan

>>2459139
But which one is Sonia's favorite though, Precure series # 255, or Madoka Magica spin-off #13?
>>
>>2459104
>[ ] Side with Ethan
>>
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>>2457959
>Linda
Kythera silk Pajamas?
>Arron
An all-inclusive vacation on the island with Sonia's super secure resort on Surakeh? An aquarium with deep sea fish for his ship?

>>2458081
>Kavos
Do we still have time to buy one of those super advanced Dro'all healing facilities from the Ruling House?
In b4 new year's eve ends up like this for Sonia.

>[ ] Side with Ethan
"Well, you did forbid him because he cut his hand with the stuff. Seems like you were trying to prevent the same injuries from happening again. I'd say he was breaking neither the wording nor the spirit of the rule by using the remote manipulator."

>>2459139
>>2459404
We finally have a valid excuse for a Halloween episode.
>>
>>2458327
>He left South Reach having come to the conclusion that Bekka was an "Uncivilised brute."
Hah

>So there is obviously some interest in this.
Well yeah. It's a match that works. We don't dislike him and his family matches up good with our interest. Still interested in Alex as a potential match but Troy works well.

>>2459104
>[ ] Side with Ethan
I can call my lawyer team to make a judgement on this one if you want to?

Dad secretly getting us Elite Magical Girl Squad collectors edition box when?
>>
After giving you such a nice present the very least you can do is stick up for him.
"He only programmed the robot to do the thing. Really that sounds like something I would do."

"Sonia I know some of the things you've done, so it's not exactly a glowing endorsement."

"It seems like you were trying to prevent the same injuries from happening again. I'd say he was breaking neither the wording nor the spirit of the rule by using the remote manipulator."

Mom looks back and forth between you and Ethan, clearly not impressed at being forced to defend her position. Wow has she ever picked up a lot of wrinkles around the eyes over the years.

"Fine, but dont think this changes the rules about doing things by hand mister. I'll be keeping an eye on you."

"Thanks mom." both of you reply.

>>2459139
>I hope Sonia unironically bought a future-DVD player and the best magical girls Valeri could recommend, then had it sent to Ran and Uller.
Worse.
You find a gift from Rufaro along with a card.
"I asked for some advice on which one of these would be best. I hope you enjoy it!"

Oh no.
Opening the package you find the complete series of Sailor Crystal Universe Dash.

"What did you get?" Ethan asks.

[ ] Nothing! It's nothing, dont look!
[ ] Show him (Embarrassed)
[ ] Show him (Triumphant)
>>
>>2459859

>[ ] Show him (Triumphant)

Of all the things to be embarrassed about. This is the least of them. Plus Sonia already stood up for him to mom, she can just as easily take her side on the matter or another. One favor for another, teach him young.
>>
>>2459859
>[ ] Show him (Triumphant)
>>
>>2459859
>[ ] Show him (Triumphant)
>>
>>2459859
>[ ] Show him (Triumphant)
We should see if future husband is up to much later too
>>
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>>2459859
>[x] Show him (Embarrassed)
>>
>Other stuff to do while still in the homeworlds
Just dumping some ideas for stuff that can only be done while on Dreminth:
-Check in on Mike and his family
-Visit the fleet club
-Find out if any of the missing teleporter capsules from the civil war have been found
-Investigate if it would be possible to build a teleporter capsule into the building of Sonia's parents and the lodge. A hidden receiver station and a small cloaked ship on one of the uninhabited planets in the system would complete the setup.
-See how the people we recovered from the sphere are doing
>>
"Haha! Check it out!" you reply holding up your newest acquisition.

"That's... what is that?" Ethan asks clearly confused.
"It's an old show."
You hand over the box so he can take a closer look.

"You really watch this stuff?"
"Well I used to when I was little. Someone mentioned it the other day... three years ago."
"Are you really going to watch 600 episodes?"

You check the box. "No, I'll probably just watch the twelve compilation movies."
Those long jumps do take quite awhile and there isn't always a lot to do aside from work and exercise. Then again some people just take much of the trip in stasis.

Bekka seems to get a kick out of that fact you still watch kids shows.
"I haven't in years. I'll see how they've held up compared to the shows they make for adults."

"It might be better than some of those movies made by halide."

Potshots aside the rest of the day goes well. Everyone is glad you're back even though it means you'll be driving mom crazy more often. After dinner you hang out for awhile longer before heading out to the lodge.
Everything is still there, no buildings burned to the ground, your weapons haven't been stolen. Even the bunker hasn't been entered by anyone while you were away. Old man Petras left a message for you that there haven't been any incidents.

A short patrol of the property later you turn in for the night. Best to be rested up for whatever challenges need to be dealt with tomorrow.
>>
In the morning mom calls you.

"Sonia I didn't want to spoil the mood at the party but I think you need to know now. Kavos passed away while you were gone."

"What? What happened?"
"He was playing with his grandchildren and then sat down to rest. A few minutes later one of his older children realised he'd stopped breathing. His heart stopped."

"They couldn't revive him?"
"Sonia he had a DNR."

>your orders?
>>
>>2459992

Ask his family if it is alright if we attend his funeral or wake? Or whatever the Dominion equivalent is.
>>
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>>2459992
>your orders?
"Oh..."
Call his family? Do Dro'all normally get a grave we could visit?
Ask that FA if we can borrow one of their time machines?
>>
>>2459992
>>your orders?
Sad intensifies
>>
>>2459992
visit his grave and family
>>
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>>2459992
Call Linda, I think she knew him as long as Sonia did. Then go chop some wood.
>>
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>>2460017


>>2460000
"Oh..."
There isn't much else to say. You hang up shortly after and call his family, offering your belated condolences.

Most Dro'all don't normally get graves one could visit. Or at least not frequently, but Kavos was a long serving decorated hero who had become a central figure for the family after retirement.
Kavos is buried at a House military cemetery not far from the capital. You take the day to head there and pay your respects.
The grave marker is simple but still gives some indication of Kavos' accomplishments. Not needing to be one of the flashy garish things seen in some graveyards.

"I guess it really was goodbye."

Leaving some flowers you offer one last salute.
>>
It takes a few tries but you eventually mange to get through to Linda. She has to keep it short though as you've technically reached her on an emergency channel. She hadn't been in House space when Kavos died but had heard about it and had sent cards, flowers, condolences, etc. for the family.

"He was already kinda old when we were first assigned to that beat up training corvette. I'm glad he was able to retire and spend as much time with his family as he did. You helped a lot with that Sonia."

Linda promises to catch up more when she eventually gets back but for now has to close the channel.
>>
>>2460147
RIP Kavos, the best Dro'all we ever knew.
>>
With the reminder of certain realities you spend the rest of the holiday week looking up old friends and seeing how they're doing.

Mike and his family are doing well. Certainly a lot better than when you'd left. Mike tells you he is still getting some help with survivor's guilt. It's not perfect but he's operating closer to a normal level. Despite this he's made new rules about kicking people off his ship if he thinks they deserve a promotion or should move on to teaching at the training schools.
Relationship wise he and Tabitha have patched things up a bit and had another kid.

Alex is doing well, though he seems a little crazier than when you left. He's been really driven to get his shipyard project taken care of despite occasional setbacks and lack of support. You of course offer to help with funding, though you dont know how much you'll have available until you set about going through the finances on Rioja.
"Ceres is too scared of you to send proposal for a political marriage?" you ask.
"No, no, they're afraid of being seen as too interested in the yard. Then the other major Houses might take interest as well and there would be competing interests. Big political mess waiting to happen. They do really want it to help them rebuild."

Lorraine Day has accused you of cheating. Specifically going into a time dilation field in order to keep the years off.
She's doing well otherwise.

There are a lot of new faces at the fleet club. Plenty of Knights both new and old. You see that they've also added some communications systems linked to the other clubs on Rioja and Surakeh.
The older Knights are still doing as they promised, helping those less experienced with the rigors of polite society and the dangers posed.

Jehtot Kharbos seems to be the ranking Knight at the local club. He's glad to see you alive and well after everything.
"I think you've beaten Cristina Pozzi's record for longest MIA member to have returned."

"Technically I was never missing, the Alliance knew where I was the whole time."
"Details, details."

[ ] Lay claim to the record
[ ] Let Pozzi's record stand
>>
>>2460347
>[ ] Let Pozzi's record stand

when was the meeting with the count scheduled?
>>
>>2460347

I mean if it's that big a deal? If not let it stand.
>>
>>2460347
[ ] Let Pozzi's record stand
Wouldn't want to usurp our subordinates achievements.
>>
>>2460347
>[x] Let Pozzi's record stand
"Well, bad Neeran doing bad things, had to deal with them, you know how it is."
>>
>>2460347
It would be a bit unfair. Pozzi actually lived through her entire time missing in action, for Sonia it was just a few weeks. Maybe add different category for people caught up in temporal shenanigans?
>>
>>2460386
>when was the meeting with the count scheduled?
Going to say after the holidays/in the new year.

>>2460347
"As far as I'm concerned let Pozzi's record stand."
Thinking it over you add. "Maybe we need a different category for people caught up in temporal shenanigans?"
"As long as it doesn't give the rookies any ideas it couldn't hurt."

On the topic of MIA members you ask Jehtot if there has been any progress locating those who went missing in the Civil War. So far, no such luck. It's possible their capsules may have misjumped or the system fizzled and they went nowhere.
"We may never know which. Or they might turn up tomorrow and beat the records. Who knows? How many people went MIA and are still missing under similar circumstances back in the Faction Wars?"

That might be worth looking up actually. Maybe all of that old battle data RSS uses to track down salvage sites could be of use?

Saving that idea for later you head out and look at a few more purchases while there are still holiday sales. Unfortunately the item you have in mind isn't exactly the sort to get the usual sales discount.

A teleport capsule receiver and closed linked systems at your parents place as well as the lodge are quite expensive looking. You know it can be done with what Helios demonstrated at the capital. You can buy a receiver but nobody seems to be selling the connected systems. You might have to contact Helios directly about that.
>>
>>2460526
>You might have to contact Helios directly about that.
Could be neat. How are they getting on with the Cooling Beam?
>>
>>2460571
>How are they getting on with the Cooling Beam?
Actually quite well. They've got starship grade ones working properly. Simulations and some limited testing show them to be quite promising against the shields of Neeran Supers. They're still some while from being able to convert their big spinal mount laser on the Ascendancy to work the same way but it should be possible.

Cooling upgrades to plasma weapons mean that the Republic heavy guns are able to fire more than 50% more frequently. They can increase that even more for short durations but then they need an extended recovery period after.

>Illya's order of knights
A human representative from the Caretakers will be going back with them. Illya hasn't at all been worried about about how long they were away, as things like wars or quests do take time.

>See how the people we recovered from the sphere are doing
Knight Thecla Shelby is certainly glad her people got off the sphere when they did after hearing what happened to you. Their group was well received by the Count who certainly agreed that the unit had done well to survive in a challenging environment for so long.

Shelby was given land in one of the former outer colonies where things are less developed but still well off. Back pay combined with pensions for a few has allowed the group to establish what is effectively a small village. Tutors and instructors have been helping the children get up to speed with schooling and modern electronics.
It has been a challenge but not really the sort they've become used to pushing on through. Most find it an easier sort. Those that are still in the Marines are assigned to training units on the same planet. It's possible some might return to front line service later.
>>
>>2460720
>Cooling Beam.
Do they work as an active plasma cannon defense?
>>
>>2460735
Not especially well. Even when they can reduce much of a cannon shot's thermal energy it doesn't do much about the kinetic energy. Though that does certainly reduce the damage potential.

Have to head out. Resuming tomorrow.
Post ideas if there's anyone else you want to meet up with before going to see the Count.

Also, what all are we discussing with him?
>>
>>2460841
>anyone else you want to meet up with before going to see the Count.
None that I can think off.

>Also, what all are we discussing with him?
Current events and politics we should be aware of considering we've been away for 3 years.

Work on making Nel'odym Baron of Magdalena so we've got another one up there.

Events on the sphere and what we've learned from it. Technology, history and whatnot.

Or two net bundles of goodies. The Gravity data we could trade to Ber'Helum for niiiiiice shit and to make their Gravity Well Generators next gen Wells. And the Weather Control data for the Harmen family so as to make their already impressive terraforming ability all the better. Perhaps we should have both Lord Harmen and Troy there as well. Especially if we are to broach the possibility of a political marriage between Sonia and Troy.
>>
>>2460841

See you then.

Things to talk about.

Tech we got from the Sphere. The Gravitational Lensing System and the Weather Control Tower data.

The Gravitational stuff we are of course are going to need to share with B'H/ RH so they can use it to improve the Gravity Well ships. And how to best handle letting Emperor B'H that we have something to help improve his houses ships. And ways we can use this to help benefit House J-D both short and long term.

As for the Weather Control Data, we need to talk to the count about how best to approach the Harmen family with it. Since we've already given them the Terraformers before the start of the civil war thanks to the Alliance.

Once we get that figured out talk with the count and a rep from the Harmen family (preferably Archivald/ Troy), someone who is open to talking with 'new blood' in House J-D and willing to deal with us. And maybe use it as a way to opens future discussion with marrying into the Harmen family via Troy after we talk with Fadilla about suitable bachelors in our region.

I'd like to possibly make this to where we and the Harmen family can come to an agreement and not be seen as trying to take over their company. But rather trying to help them and by extent helping the house in making planets more habitable. (Also that we do eventually want to let the Alliance look at it. After the Harmon family has had enough time looking at the data to get their own ball rolling.)

You know, normal stuff that can create great political mischief, with just a simple gesture of wanting to help advance the Dominion in some way.
>>
>>2460841
>Post ideas if there's anyone else you want to meet up with before going to see the Count.
See how the local Reynard Industries office is doing?

The Council? Ask Fadila if we should do this before or after meeting the Count.

>Also, what all are we discussing with him?
The tech we recovered from the sphere. What the problems our House has are at the moment. Is there anything he wants Sonia's opinion on? Don't mention the marriage idiocy until we've been briefed by Fadila.
>>
>>2460841
Check in on our Kharbos guy. This should be his first time on leave since he got the slave chip.

Visit Linda's castle.

Take a tour of the new orbital stations?

Did any larger Houses open embassies here?
>>
>>2460841
I want to get the basic gestalt on events whilst we've been away. Political moves by anyone against us? How is the Count holding up? Broach the topics of the Gravity well improvements for BH and the Weather control systems, and see if it will upset any of our allies/rivals.
>>
>>2460894
>I'd like to possibly make this to where we and the Harmen family can come to an agreement and not be seen as trying to take over their company.

I mean. If we marry into the family they might ask us to take over. Out of fear of us starting our own division and eclipsing them.

Reynard Systems Salvage, as in solar systems. Drag a few gas giants into empty space with the grav generators and then sink the generators in to collapse them. Light them up with some probably veckron subspace bullshit. Now we have a star. Drag appropriate planets into the system, set them in orbit and then terraform them.

Clearly this is madness and would take more than 1 lifetime.
>>
>>2460841
We should throw a ball to celebrate with all the knights we were grooming.

Did we get anything about the Rovinar from the sphere? I want to randomly pop up on their radar and offer it to them for a favour in the future. Or to pay that favour we owe.
>>
>>2460841

Another thing on which to get updates on.

What is the status of the house? And how can we assist the house before we ship out again in a year?

What is the status of the Run Alliance? Are the members of it upset that we disappeared for three years? Are any of them planning on leaving the Run Alliance?

What is the political landscape like among the houses that J-D is allied with? Is there anything we can do to assist in keeping our alliances strong?

>Clearly this is madness and would take more than 1 lifetime.

That sounds excitingly dangerous and far beyond even what was likely possible before the Factions had to universe hop. I would expect a faction like the Necrons to be able to pull something like that off.

Definitely would not mind having a strong in to their company. So long as it doesn't earn us to many enemies. We kept being told to find a viable means of making money outside of wartime and salvaging worlds sounds like a very lucrative albeit time consuming means of doing so.
>>
>>2461615
>Reynard Systems Salvage
>As in solar systems
>Drag a few gas giants

Sounds like we need our own Dyson Sphere, with a big fat Reynard logo plastered on the side. Thanks, caretaker Neeran, but we've got our own one now.
>>
Imagine if the lensing technology let you focus the singularity's gravity into a beam. Then you combined it with that Kavarian star stripping device, and made it mobile.
>>
>>2462214
Can you lense gravity through subspace? They affect each other after all.
>>
>>2460347
>Relationship wise he and Tabitha have patched things up a bit and had another kid.
We should visit. His older kid should be about to enter school.

>>2460526
>That might be worth looking up actually. Maybe all of that old battle data RSS uses to track down salvage sites could be of use?
Shouldn't this be something that should be pretty easy to get funding for from the FA and access to their archives? If we succeed in finding out what goes wrong or where the capsules end up, it would help all factions. In b4 the sphere builders have an installation with an extremely weak beacon that all these capsules locked on to when they couldn't find anything else because somebody forgot to switch it off a couple million years ago.

The first step would be to sift through all available data to identify the regions and circumstances in which most capsules went missing. Then we try to replicate these circumstances but this time we put budget versions of these Rovinar communication devices as trackers in the capsules. Then we activate the teleporters a few thousand times and check where the cargo ends up. It shouldn't be that expensive because most of them should be recoverable as we'd be operating in relatively safe areas like the one where Sonia's House lost their capsules.

>>2460841
>Post ideas if there's anyone else you want to meet up with before going to see the Count.
Who is selling these advanced Dro'all medical systems? Even if Kavos is dead for now we should get one.
>>
>>2462214
>Planetary grade gravitational beam emitter
What could possibly go wrong?

>>2461187
>Check in on our Kharbos guy. This should be his first time on leave since he got the slave chip.
You check up on Arif Sayadov. He's used the time on planet to contact family members letting them know he's still alive for the moment. Other than that he's mainly been doing debriefings with intel or bar hopping.
He's also been trying to look up other former Kharbos personnel still in J-D service. There are not many left but some are still kicking around.

>Visit Linda's castle.
Reminder that Linda isn't there.

>Take a tour of the new orbital stations?
The primary manufacturing stations have been upgraded with improved defenses. They're not going to be taken out by just a few SP Torpedoes. Cargo arrays have been expanded and redundancy addded. Production output can be more than doubled in the future if called for.

Thanks to the upgrades Dreminth's orbital space is being kept clear of a choking number of satellites. That's been a primary concern for a long time for why the capital doesn't feature more platforms.
Currently there are discussions taking place as to whether the old main station should be replaced. For now the old station remains in place since it's only a secondary fleet base.

>Did any larger Houses open embassies here?
There were already embassies for most Houses in the Capital. There was a lengthy period of relative peace before the civil war after all. A few Houses have chosen to expand their embassies and add more consulates.

>See how the local Reynard Industries office is doing?
They're doing well. London has recruited a number of skilled nobles from around the J-D homeworlds. They're helping to manage the region's platform construction business. Platforms around Dreminth, Loran II and a number of worlds in the former Erid territories are seeing upgrades. These are increasing their defensive capability along with cargo capacity and structural strength. The old platforms in the Loran system needed upgrades almost as badly as those around the capital.

New platforms are being constructed throughout former Erid space in an effort to standardize station types. Considerable work is already done on that front.

Salvage business has been doing well with post civil war cleanup efforts. Things are starting to drop off again and shift towards the Neeran front. A small team is being assembled to assist recovery of transports damaged in convoy attacks in the Terran Relays.

>Did we get anything about the Rovinar from the sphere?
Checks of the samples have shown that they are indeed related to the Rovinar. There are a number of minor but important differences that may have resulted in their different appearance.

Did you want to visit the Rovinar Embassy and share this data with them?
>>
>>2463748
>Did you want to visit the Rovinar Embassy and share this data with them?
Sure. Unless they're weird about these things.
>>
>>2463748
>Did you want to visit the Rovinar Embassy and share this data with them?

Yes, tell them we encountered such on our last deployment.
>>
You head over to the Rovinar Embassy for the first time in awhile. Maybe you've been gone long enough they'll consider trading favours again? You can only hope.

Reception doesn't seem bothered by your arrival which is a good sign.
"Viscount Reynard, it has been some time. The Ambassador should be able to see you in a few minutes."
"Thank you. "

Soon you're shown in and present the Ambassador with some of the samples you took, along with the DNA results.
"We recovered these from downed enemy personnel fighting on the Sphere. I was wondering if this information would be at all useful to you?"

The Ambassador looks over the physical samples and the data from the results. After about a minute or two the Ambassador turns to you.
"How much do you want?"

That's not quite the reaction you were expecting.
"Excuse me?"

"How much do you want so that this information is not disseminated beyond the sphere foundation and intelligence agencies?"

"I don't understand, what's wrong? Why would I want to keep quiet about this?"

"Every Faction has their secrets. The Terrans and Krath have theirs, we do as well. We would be willing to buy the samples and data along with your silence on this matter."

[ ] Tell me why
[ ] Allow me to trade in favours again
[ ] Cash is fine
>>
>>2463942

"I don't suppose you'd be willing to tell me why you want to keep this secret?"

>[ ] Cash is fine

I would also go with favors if other anons want to try and reopen that option.
>>
>>2463942
SP technology for JD? :)

Mostly joking... Mostly. I mean we can ask just to gouge their reactions no?

That aside favors seems nice to me. Especially since we've got THREE AND A HALF years worth of cash waiting for us once we start dealing with our businesses. So cash aint really a problem for us at all.
>>
>>2463942
>Other
Aren't these guys besties with the Krath? Could they get us a deal for Eldal?
>>
Working away at Fadila's marriage prospects list. Sorry my posting is a bit slow.

>>2463985
>I mean we can ask just to gouge their reactions no?
Do this?

>>2464001
Potentially. They do tend to help a lot with their diplomatic duties.
What did you have in mind? They're still working on improving the bio armor. In theory there is a better chance Sonia would be able to use it now, though you've already got an endgame level suit from the sphere.
>>
>>2464022
>Do this?
I don't know if these guys have any capacity for humor. I'd rather not.

>What did you have in mind?
Wasn't Eldal worried about getting mind wiped and reprogrammed by his government? Maybe they could change this into mandatory visits with a psychologist. Or something similar but less drastic.
>>
>>2464022

>>I mean we can ask just to gouge their reactions no?
Pass, actually, we could offer to rent space to them to open an SP production facility somewhere on Rioja. In before they already do this in secret

Though I'd rather they talk with the Krath about letting us keep Eldal on, wherever he is. Without them trying to take him back and reprogram him or whatever they want to do with him when he gets home.
>>
>>2464032
>>2464035
You could ask for an immediate political favor in convincing the Krath to cut Eldal loose. They might not be happy about it but it would probably be within their power.
>>
>>2464039
>convincing the Krath to cut Eldal loose
That's not exactly what I was hoping for, to be honest. I'm all in favor of cooperating with them, I just don't want Eldal reprogrammed unless he becomes a realistic threat to others.
>>
>>2464039

I'm with >>2464042 in thinking about this.
>>
Oh god there's a wasp inside
>>
>>2464074
Lewd
>>
>>2464074
Turns out I have the wrong bug spray for killing wasps. Fortunately it knocked it out of the air long enough to kill it.

>>2464042
>I'm all in favor of cooperating with them, I just don't want Eldal reprogrammed unless he becomes a realistic threat to others.
There is no telling what the Krath will do at this time if Eldal is arrested. He would probably be shipped back to the Krath homeworlds. There they could do whatever they wanted without any interference and without having to answer to anyone about him.

Faction laws on Krath prisoners are rather vague other than holding them until they can be handed over to their government.

Instead you could ask to set up a meeting at a neutral location. You wouldn't need to use a favour to do that.
>>
>>2464101
>Instead you could ask to set up a meeting at a neutral location. You wouldn't need to use a favour to do that.
We should probably talk to Eldal first before setting up anything.

>Other
"I'll put it in a survey for the voices in my head to vote. I'll get back to you."
Or just take the cash, we can give it to the other people on the expedition. Some of them are probably not even millionaires yet.

You're supposed to take a cup and a post card or something similar, catch the insect, and then release it outside. Unless you're allergic.
>>
>>2464101

Cash it is.
>>
>>2464131
If it was a Bee or a spider or even a Moth I would have done that. Fuck wasps.

>We should probably talk to Eldal first before setting up anything.
>"I'll put it in a survey for the voices in my head to vote. I'll get back to you."
I could put it to survey.
>>
>>2463942
The Rovinar lack the concept of favours, so i'm fine with a simple payment for our silence and just giving them the data.
>>
From the wiki
>No data currently exists on the projected Krath lifespan, though information provided by the Rovinar indicate that it becomes increasingly difficult for them to change shape as they age, effectively locking them in one form or another.
>Food found on the sphere helped Eldal to change shape easily
Did we find the Krath equivalent of the fountain of youth without realizing it?
>>
You consider the Ambassadors offer and decide there are too many variables at play right now.
"I'll have to think on it for awhile. Until then I'll try to keep this information quiet."

"Thank you Viscount."

Once away you send a message to Eldal asking if he'd like you to set up a meeting between him and someone from his government. You also mention the possibility of trading information to get them to leave him alone. Hopefully he'll have responded by the time you decide on your answer for the Rovinar.

>>2462275
>Can you lense gravity through subspace? They affect each other after all.
Sounds like it would be difficult but could be worth investigating.

>>2463241
>Who is selling these advanced Dro'all medical systems?
There are some that sell them among the larger Houses. Through legitimate routes it would be difficult for you to get one.
Ferigold could probably get one through black market channels.

>What is the status of the house?
It has been in a state of controlled chaos associated with organizing the new territories where Drake is now a Baron. The established nobility has been working as always to try and grab up what they can. A number of political marriages have taken place with nobility from the newly annexed worlds.

The House is approaching a point where the Count and the Counsel are contemplating when to take possession of the few worlds held in trust. Not immediately but they are trying to decide if it will be within the next 5 years. Probably not. There was quite a bit of territory annexed and its long term stability remains questionable.

>What is the status of the Run Alliance?
Holding together for now, largely because of your commitments to continuing joint development efforts in the region. The local Barons have convinced their superiors not to throw away the money already invested when they can still benefit.
The main point of contention continues to be support for the new Ruling House. Even with the change quite a few back House Nirium.
>>
>>2464224
That would certainly provide some leverage if talking to his people's government.
>>
>>2464260

If we did not bring any samples back with us. I'd say that's something worth going out for next time we are out at the front lines. So we can use that to help get the Krath to leave Eldal alone.
>>
File: 1523303191783.webm (2.68 MB, 498x270)
2.68 MB
2.68 MB WEBM
>Meeting the Krath government
whatcouldpossiblygowrong.webm

Also, we have never spent any time with Estevan Risto. Invite him over for some fishing or at least buy the guy some ice cream.
>>
>>2464323
Sauce?

>>2464248
Faaaavours. I don't know what >>2464211 is talking about Rovinar not understanding favours seeing how many times we traded it with them.
>>
>>2464401
>Sauce?
Memories - Magnetic Rose

Almost done write up for Fadila.
>>
>>2464401
TSTG got it right. It's worth watching and only 45 minutes long.

>>2464411
Did we ever give a station that name? I know it was suggested a while ago.
>>
>breakdown from our advisors about marriage prospects from a political/financial viewpoint?

>Baron Kári Darrow / House Phobos
A Baron within one of the other Human lead Houses, Darrow has probably sent you one of the rarer gifts; a Corsair attack ship. He seems like an okay guy, primarily interested in protecting the people of his House. Much of his war experience is similar to Sonia's having fought the Neeran and learned how best to salvage their equipment when possible.
While not nearly as ambitious, has similar moral grounds to Sonia.

Phobos managed to hang on over the course of the war. They didn't take any serious losses but gained very little as a result. They're considered to be a weaker less influential House than J-D but have more holdings and a slightly larger conventional fleet. Their upgrade and replacement program has been a bit on the slow side. Despite this they're still a well established House known to be popular among more conservative groups.

>Baron Torsten Vlegel / House Ceres
Vlegel is well known for his ability to spot talent and determine where they can be the most effective. He makes no attempts to hide his less than stellar tactical acumen, but he has other people for that. Those that know him warn of his ruthlessness when it comes to recruitment. He wont hesitate bribe or blackmail people if it gets them to work for him and do their job well.
Financially successful from a young age, he is seen as somewhat elitist.

House Ceres space suffered some of the heaviest fighting in the Civil War until your side was able to launch their offensive. As a result their infrastructure was badly damaged. In spite of this Ceres held onto and even regained enough power and territory that they became a member of the Seven. It is the first Human House to have reached that level of the Dominion's hierarchy and as a result has drawn much scrutiny.
Despite their strength Ceres is in need of allies and resources to continue their recovery. Vlegel has long shown direct interest in your House, but if you were to ask them Ceres would quickly try to find you other potential suitors.

>1/3
>>
>Captain Troy Harmen / House J-D -
A ground force commander with somewhat unconventional ideas that haven't always proven popular. As you're well aware Troy is the son of the Planetary Governor of Loran II, part of the established nobility and old wealth. While he has not always got along with his father they are on good enough terms that Troy is one of the primary heirs.
Fairly outgoing at social events and knows how to handle himself diplomatically. Was known to show something of a rebellious streak and recklessness that has worried his parents when he was younger. Few things exemplify this as much as his preference for repulsor jetbikes in combat.

The Harmen family are responsible for House J-D terraforming operations and have made their fortune buying land on undeveloped worlds and selling it once habitable. While it's no doubt they're among the richest people in the House, much of that wealth is tied down in planetary acquisitions.


>Governor Dejan Holtby / House J-D -
Eldest child of Lord Mirek Holtby and Baron Abigale Winifred, is one of the most powerful Nobles of Torun. Holtby is interested in strengthening ties to the newer generation of financially well off Knights. Since the death of his father he has distanced himself from anyone that might potentially aim to overthrow the Count, if only to ensure he doesn't meet a similar end. Politically he has assisted the Count's efforts to de-escalate infighting between the new and old guard.

Rumor had it he was considering courting Katherine Drake until it was revealed she was his half sister. Awkward.

According to Winifred he wasn't a terrible kid but takes after his father more than she would like. To him marriage is merely a means to an end. Simply about more power and position.

The Holtby family is primarily invested in industry but are known to be diversified enough to weather most financial crises. They have invested in Rioja's manufacturing industry as well as planetary mining.

>2/3
>>
>Bernard Foss / SRL Mercenary Captain -
Commander of a substantial SRL mercenary fleet serving under Warlord Cirtap Krussk. You've worked with him for some time, having made deals for the protection of the Smuggler's Run or its shipyards. You also helped save his super heavy from House Bonrah. He is now rated among the most reliable South Reach mercs because of work and association with you and your House.
The few times he's appeared at balls or parties he seemed to handle himself well enough among the Dominion nobles present.

Foss commands the Super Heavy Cruiser Sam Bellamy, which has been upgraded to improved EX-Mega standards. A political marriage could strengthen ties to the remaining South Reach warlords. Alternatively you could try to use the marriage to recruit Foss into the House, though this would severely damage relations with the Warlords.

>Şivan Berwari / SRL Mercenary Leader
He of the magnificent beard. Şivan Berwari is a long time pirate turned mercenary that has aspirations to become a South Reach Warlord. A brilliant and charismatic mathematician who has focused on the field of chaos theory, Berwari has been known to wreak havoc on his enemies and even his allies. Despite this he gets results and has shown levels of success that seem improbable at the best of times.
While Sonia betrayed him to ensure his superior would join the Dominion, it was decided that letting him die would be too wasteful. One rescue later he was sent to PCCG space.

He is currently the most powerful independent mercenary leader in South Reach. Elements of his fleet are registered as SRL and PCCG mercenaries. By shifting personnel and warship assets between the groups he's been able to optimise employment for his people.
It's unlikely a political marriage would distract Berwari from his long term plans to become a Warlord. If anything it could potentially give your House influence over the SRL in time if they were to support his efforts.
>>
I'm going to regret this since I know what happens in every quest where it comes up, but marrying another woman is possible, just frowned upon in the Dominion with these sort of political alliances. So you know, that's there. I just haven't put any thought into potential candidates along those lines.
>>
>>2464492

It could be worse, AI Versa being best AI waifu. Could also have been an option.
>>
>>2464492
Wouldn't it be bound to happen with Dro'all anyway considering how they switch every couple of months? Or would they sync up before marriage?

>>2464477
>Versa / Terran AI Scientist
One of several AIs constructed by the Terran government, Versa has been stationed on and commanded a super heavy cruiser in the past before moving on to a more permanent position in research.

While having neither a body, a fortune or full citizen rights in the Terran Alliance, the program would nevertheless make a powerful ally. Marrying would probably cause incredible amounts of trouble for all sides involved.
>>
>>2464428
>Did we ever give a station that name?
There maybe wasn't enough support at the time? I remember it being suggested.

Short version
PR: Political rating, How people's perceptions of Sonia throughout the Dominion would be changed.
J-D: Effect on House Jerik-Dremine

>Baron Kári Darrow / House Phobos
PR: Minor Increase
J-D: Improved relations with House Phobos

>Baron Torsten Vlegel / House Ceres
PR: Large Increase
J-D: Improved relations with House Ceres.
Sonia's relations with other major Houses viewed with more suspicion

>Captain Troy Harmen / House J-D
PR: House only Increase
J-D: + Old Guard Relations

>Governor Dejan Holtby / House J-D
PR: House only Increase
J-D: + Old Guard Relations

>Bernard Foss / SRL Mercenary Captain
PR: Minor decrease
J-D: Long term SRL bonus, or House Fleet bonus

>Şivan Berwari / SRL Mercenary Leader
PR: Decrease
J-D: Long term SRL bonus / Infiltration of SRL
>>
>>2464518
>>2464530
Didn't even think of the AI.

>Or would they sync up before marriage?
It's possible for Dro'all to sync up their cycles it just takes awhile.
It's more that with humans it's frowned upon.
>>
>>2464260
Would they be interested in the samples we took from these creatures that could feed on electrical currents? It seems like something that would be useful to have for their infiltrators.
>>
>>2464542

>Darrow
Sounds like a solid choice, if we want to marry outside the house.

>Vlegel
Only if we're truly desperate. Dude sounds like ends justify the means type. Which I don't believe suit Sonia at all.

>Troy
Get as a better in with the Harmon family. Get some hate from the Old Guard off of us. And the guy is good to work with and has some ideas that even Sonia would likely think about if she were in similar situations. Best option. Totally not biased at all, nope.

>Holtby
Sounds like another solid choice. But only if we want any marriage to be short and solely for the political benefits. Also to possibly get closer to the count? Not sure why we'd need to do that but, eh. (We'd be following in Winifreds footsteps if we choose him.)

>Foss
A good option. Also brings another Super into JD control. If we want to try that. But as was made clear. More supers isn't what JD needs at the moment. But still, good reliable option if we marry someone outside the Dominion.

>Berwari
Dude is good and gets results. But also has his down sides to him.

Troy would be my choice. But I feel leaving this up to survey might be better choice. With the option to just hold off on marrying anyone also included on it, for people who don't want to bother with marriage stuff.
>>
>>2464542
>Darrow
Seems like a very decent candidate. Are the main holdings of his house close to j-d main space? Which of the large houses are they close to?

>Vlegel
His personality doesn't seem very compatible with Sonia's. Also, getting too close to one of the 7 seems detrimental considering how well it has turned out for us to work with several of them on different projectw at the same time.

>Harmen
Seems okay. A very solid choice that doesn't rock the boat.

>Holtby
A more business-like alternative to Troy. Not sure about this guy.

>Foss
Seems like a decent guy.

>Berwari
This would be super awkward with Sonia's past actions.

How's the situation with the SRL? It would be good to know more about how things are going for the newest faction.
>>
>>2464677
>How's the situation with the SRL? It would be good to know more about how things are going for the newest faction.
While they continue to weaken overall it has finally slowed to the point where it is barely noticeable. Fewer people are being lost to desertion or joining the other merc guilds. Piracy is still present but at greatly reduced levels. Inter House cooperation on anti-piracy campaigns has ensured only the stupid or the extremely skilled even make the attempt.

The Warlords have been putting more resources into continued expansion of their industrial base. Efforts by the Dominion and specifically House Nirium continue to pay off in that regard.
They've been stepping up efforts to upgrade output of their limited super heavy yards. Some hulls they're producing are intentionally incomplete in places allowing easier upgrade to either ACS or other versions. There is even talk of one yard potentially producing structural elements for the Dominion's Fast Super program.

Lashay Bonney has supposedly been encouraging Alliance recruitment efforts in South Reach of late. It seems they're trying to keep recruiters away from the experienced mercs and get younger ones better training. This may be part of efforts to cut their own training costs but it's hard to know if it will pay off in the end.
>>
>>2464677
>Are the main holdings of his house close to j-d main space?
Shit, I don't remember where they are and can't find it anywhere.
At least we know where their DRH 1 holdings are?
I'm going to guess closer to Helios space.

>Which of the large houses are they close to?
They were aligned towards Nirium/Helios but drifted away from Nirium somewhat over the course of the Civil War. They're closer tied to Helios and slowly moving towards the new Ruling House.

In reading through archives I've been reminded that Phobos are supplying the current heavy tanks used by the House. All thanks to that deal you negotiated with Baron Dante.
>>
>>2458205
>or just hook up for a short instance like Winifrid and Archivald?
Note: Winifred and Archivald were never married.

Winifred was in a political marriage to Mirek Holtby at the time. She didn't get a divorce until late 4023.
>>
Looking over Fadila's list you're again faced with the challenges of politics.

"Do any of them seem to stand out more than the others?" you ask her.
"Nobody in particular, but I do know House Ceres would benefit from someone with both money and infrastructure companies. They would certainly owe you for any help. And if you don't care for Baron Vlegel I'm sure they have others who might be interested."

"Hmm... thanks. I'll call you back in the morning once I've had time to think it over."
"Good night then, and I hope you find everything to your liking when you get back to Rioja. Bye!"

Stepping outside the lodge to get some air you look up through the gap in the trees at the stars above. If you hadn't been watching you'd probably have missed the arrival of a small repulsor bike with Rufaro aboard. It seems things went well with her family over the past few days.

Once she's stowed her things you bring her up to date on everything.

"Wow, it sounds like you've been busy." is Rufaro's response.

Sighing you turn to her.
"Any advice? I know I've always kept you busy so it wouldn't exactly have been easy, but have you been seeing anyone? Someone from the guard maybe? Valeri even?"

Rufaro nearly loses her balance with giggling laughter.
"You really think me and Valeri what with..." She waves her hand trying to indicate something then stops and stares at you.
"Wait, you don't know?"

"Know what?"

You hear a sharp intake of breath. "Uh... I shouldn't have said anything."

"Rufaro what are you talking about?" you demand, an edge creeping into your tone.

"You know he wanted to cut off Fox's head and bring it to you right?"

You wish that was a fairly broad category of people within the House, but really there are only so many people who would want to do that.
>What say?
>>
>>2464972

>"You know he wanted to cut off Fox's head and bring it to you right?"

"No, but I can see him wanting to do that. But he has made up for being used I feel."

Time and opportunities have proven to be unreliable and unfavorable for revenge. What with the Civil War and him being somewhat useful to the house then. That said, I would not mind something bad happening to Fox. But he is the least of our worries now days.

chances that if Valeri does this he offers Fox's head as a means of marriage proposal? A fair thought seeing as we are entertaining thoughts of marriage.
>>
>>2464972
"Ah, he knows how to win my heart at least."
>>
>>2465070
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/42455812/#p42463902
First thing Valeri asked you after getting knighted.
>"Do you want me to kill Fox?"
>>
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>>2465119

IGNORE ME! -Galactic Inquisitor

Fuck, I forgot that. Ignore my post.
>>
>>2465114
>>2465142
So, you want me to add Valeri under the Secret category?
ie. no political value whatsoever.
>>
>>2465211

Yes please.
>>
>>2465211
I wouldn't mind it, given how long he's worked for us.
>>
SURVEY!

surveymonkey com/r/ QD2K9DN
>>
Getting my vote in for best boi Troy before I'm off on a tramp
>>
>>2464550
>Didn't even think of the AI.
Imagine being the poor Terran crewmember who has to sort through all the AI fan/hatemail they probably get, then coming across a package marked with official Dominion stamps and having to read the marriage proposal.
>>
>>2465454
We can still request her presence as a maid of honour.
>>
>>2465713
Definitely.
>>
What does a political marriage usually entail in the dominion? I don't really feel comfortable voting for any of the options without knowing what would be expected of both parties.
>>
>>2465918
It was described by Winifred really early in the quest. TL;DR one of us joins the others family, bringing all our property with us and gaining their status. Also we're expected to have a kid pretty quick to seal the deal. Finally it won't happen quickly, but probably easier than normal due to our background not having a bunch of direct noble relatives messing about.
>>
Going to be resuming around 7PM tonight due to work.

>>2465918
Ideally the idea is for both parties benefit.

Example; Winifred and Holtby.
Winifred gained access to money and political legitimacy. (Though it did take awhile.)
Holtby benefited from Winifred's popularity with the military, whereas he'd previously had rather poor relations with them. Sort of important if you want to become a planetary governor and not get overthrown.

It would probably be a good idea to work out a premarital agreement to best agree what benefits both would get.

>The content of a prenuptial agreement can vary widely, but commonly includes provisions for division of property and spousal support in the event of divorce or breakup of marriage.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prenuptial_agreement
>>
>>2466085
Probably something like our stock passes to our child when we die, so that it returns to their family.
>>
Had a couple interesting write-ins on the survey. Especially under other persons of interest we've got supreme commander of the Terran Fleet; Admiral Chen. He's not exactly a young guy.
While I'm sure he might find the offer flattering I think his government might take issue with it.

>bekka
I really hope this is intended as meaning Bekka should be the one getting hitched instead of Sonia.


With the Rovinar ambassador issue we're currently tied between asking for favours again or keeping quiet about it.
>Allow us to trade in favours again, but we'll keep this one itself for free for them regardless (they won't owe us a favour for it). Because we can be discrete and respectful.
I figured allowing you to trade again would sort of count as using a favour as they're reluctant to be caught in that trap again with you. Then again there may be a way to spin it.
Do this?
>>
>>2466808
Do this, but I feel like it would mean that we wouldn't come to them first with this sort of thing anymore. So maybe we should imply that if they insist on just a business style relationship then they won't get special consideration in the future.

Like.

We approached them first with this instead of just auctioning it off, after all.
>>
>>2466808
Besides don't we already owe them a favour for stealing their cloak secrets?
>>
>>2466865
We and the count already took care of that for them.
>>
>>2466858
>We approached them first with this instead of just auctioning it off, after all.
That sounds like a favor to me.

>>2466885
This. You could ask the Count about it and if the Rovinar have collected on it yet, but you suspect it might not be a popular topic.
>>
>>2466808
Go with favors, but minor favors. If they are that worried about us abusing favors. Which we never did, honest.
>>
>>2466808
>Do this?
Yes
>>
Wanting to keep complications as a result of your conversation with Rufaro to a minimum you tell her to forget you talked about it. No need to make things difficult later. Despite this you do note internally that Valeri is on the list. Or at least on A list, just not the one you're sharing with Fadila.

Even now you can tell what she would say. That it would cause a scandal, that you'd lose prestige. Mentally correcting that list in your head you put Valeri's name under SECRET! Along with things like SP Torpedoes and stuff about the Caretakers you're not supposed to tell people.

Returning to the Rovinar Embassy you ask to speak to the Ambassador again. Once there you answer the question from the other day. That you'd like to be able to trade favours again.

Pointing out you did approach them first with the data instead of simply auctioning it off to medical firms, ordinarily they'd owe you for that. This time you're willing to let it go for free, with the information itself being traded for options to be unlocked.

"That is one legitimate viewpoint to take with regards to this trade. I will agree to this provided certain rules are put in place. Favours must be traded for favours. Actions, assistance, these would count as favours. If you wish to trade salvaged starships they can be traded for money or credit towards vehicles and equipment.
Would you find these terms acceptable?"

>What say?
>>
>>2466931
>Would you find these terms acceptable?

Sure that is fine.
>>
>>2466931
I accept. I've always liked the Rovinar, despite everything we put them through, they've never become actively hostile.
>>
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Accepting the terms set out by the Ambassador, you promise that you're not in any hurry to rack up a bunch of new favours. This seems to cause the diplomat no small amount of relief.

With that taken care of you start planning out what all needs to be discussed in the meeting with Count Jerik. Deciding it might be best to provide some warning you send an itinerary of sorts to the Council.
A return message is received thanking you for the warning and updating you that the planned appointment has been extended. Probably a good thing.

For new years you head out to the lodge, inviting some of your friends, and take Ethan plasma pistol shooting. He likes the newer mark 7, your first choice these days, but there are aspects of the upgraded Mark 1 you still like more. Replacing the older weapon wouldn't be nearly as easy if something happened to it. It wasn't the end of the world when your newer pistol was cut in half while fighting in the capital.

With Dad's help the three of you set up fireworks up on top of the mountain that can been seen for tens of kilometers. The county fire service, who would have had to spend the night on standby regardless, at least manage to get a good show.

"We never got to see anything like that back home growing up." Mike tells you. "I'm glad you invited us."

"You never saw fireworks?"
"Not a big show, not in person. Everyone would buy a few now and then and set them off. Usually just as a distraction for the cops."

"How is your old neighbourhood doing?" you ask him.

Mike frowns. "Not as well since Vaughn died, but we're still keeping the peace. Still cleaning it up. The actual Lord is making money again and has been diverting a lot of it to restoration efforts. Two of their relatives are potentials to be Knighted soon so it would help if they could take over."

"Would you be fine with that? Someone who might not even be from there taking over your work?"

"As long as they don't completely screw it up? Yeah."
>>
>>2467201
'We lost a lot of good people during the Civil War, I'd hate to see all the work you put in go to waste."
>>
"I can't believe it's 4039." you complain on the ride to the capital.
Most of last year outside of Time dilation was spent on ships at FTL.

New years day seems an unlikely time for an appointment with the Count but there is a reason for it. Most hard drinking nobles are using easily cured hangovers as an excuse not to get anything done today.

It doesn't take long to be shown into the main hall and Count Jerik welcomes you back to the land of the living. Or at least the politically active. He's looking a little older, patches of grey hair having expanded since your last meeting.

You're quick to recount the events of your little adventure, not bothering to go into exacting detail. What you do share is suggested to be treated as classified information.
There's no telling what secrets House Nirium is aware of, contributing to the Dyson Exploration Sciences Foundation while they were Ruling House. It seems like it would be a good idea not to have nobles from several hundred Houses trying to storm parts of the sphere for its wealth of technology.
Even the Count agrees with that sentiment.

"I was informed by intelligence you brought back technological data as well?"

"That's right."
First you explain the Gravitational lensing system data recovered. It would be extremely valuable to the new Ruling House and could allow for upgrades of the Dominion's gravity well generators. There's no telling just what would be learned from the data but odds are good it would make a difference.

"I would like your advice and guidance on how best to use this to help benefit House J-D, both in the short and long term."

The Count is glad you didn't just head to the capital with it.

"The Emperor would be more than happy to provide you or the House with one of the next generation of grav-well generators in return for this. I'm sure we can sell it more dearly. Such as for a production license.
The Ber'helum yards have been reluctant to outsource grav-well production to other Houses. I don't blame them for it. This might be worth it."

That does sound like it could come in handy.

Count Jerik continues.
"There are other options. Your orbital correction Terraforming program is proving that it can work. Making worlds habitable that have had their orbits shifted will still take decades but it is possible. There is a system that the Hamen family have been evaluating at that could support two habitable worlds. Unfortunately it's not within our territory, but that could change if you asked."

Worth keeping in mind especially given your plans with the other piece of Sphere tech.

"So I shouldn't ask for a Fast Super?" you ask, causing the Count to frown in thought.

"Forbearance is a fine ship but will need replacement by a more capable vessel some day. That said I can't say I would be comfortable trading in our ship for a newer model. At least not while the Fast Supers are in their first generation.
Some day, but not today."
>>
Other ideas for things to trade for the Gravitational lensing systems?
This is the time to bounce them off your boss.
>>
>>2467454

Could this lensing system be used as leverage to get B'H to be more accepting of Alex's Mobile Heavy Yards? That way if Phobo's were to approach him for a political marriage. He'd have the backing of two of the seven to go ahead with his project.
>>
>>2467456

LoGH remake looks pretty.
>>
>>2467465
Had considered that but he's already going to be using 1 favour from the Ruling House to get it into production once the bugs are worked out.

With so much R&D already being put into other projects they'd have to take resources away from something else. Like not upgrading the gravity generators right away.
Alex knew from the start it would be a long term project. Good idea just isn't practical atm.

>>2467470
Oh good, was genuinely worried it was going to be terrible.
Especially with the few images I'd seen of Grim Wan-Li.
>>
>>2467456
Private property on the Capital?
>>
>>2467494
>Lensing
I was more of the idea, B'H would at least give their blessing for him to build it. He'd still have to do the hard work and all that. But I was just hoping that by having the political backing of B'H and if Phobo's (if they found someone brave enough to drudge the political quagmire). Would set pretty good grounds to get other Houses to be more tolerant of his idea. And maybe a good word in to Kharbos and Helios would also bring in another two of the seven. Meaning he'd have the backing of the majority of the seven. Which could give him clearance from the Dominion to proceed.

Still not sure how to sell the idea to Kharbos and Helios just yet.

>LoGH Remake
It looks pretty and I like it, but there are differences in it. People are complaining about tactical mistakes, but they did at the very first episode say that any interpretations to prior military minds is simply luck of fate or whatever. Or in other words, they are just drawing up different battles and generals for their space battles.

But as I said, it looks pretty and I like my eye candy. No political stuff yet that I've seen.
>>
>>2467456
What does the House need to grow to the next level?
More people? Power? Money? Industry? Allies? Ships?
>>
>>2467529
From what I've gathered we're still fairly small territorywise for a house of our strength.I don't know how that has changed after obtaining more territory from the new RH in the aftermath of the civil war.

Our industry and economy is very good and our military is a maximum capacity of what we can really support. Really we just need more territory and manpower to move up the ranks a bit.

>>2467454
I am partial to production rights to the Grav Well generator. Too Sonia that is. That would help speed up our own terraforming projects and give us a niiiiice boost in cash from sales of others.
>>
>>2467702
And having the rights to produce those gravwell generators would be a boone for when we talk to the Harmen family. Making us marrying Troy look more appealing to the Harmen family. Which if we got the grav wells and gave them the terraformer tech. They better be really fucking happy and bring a whole hell of a lot to the table in discussions.
>>
>>2467454
>Such as for a production license.
Can you imagine being the only other House with this tech and then having it stolen? I really don't want to open that can of worms, J-D is simply not powerful enough for it in my opinion.

>>2467456
How about ownership of a nice FTL trade lane?
>>
>>2467778
Don't be ridiculous anon. Us obtaining the production licenses for it would be a HUGE boost for us. Both economically, industrial, political and prestige wise. The House and Ber'Helum will both likewise seek to protect the integrity of the production data.

Besides who would be stupid enough to actually steal it and use it? The RH would find out about it immediately and then we got another civil war or a massive inter-faction incident that could spark a faction war. None wants either of those to happen right now.
>>
>>2467517
>Private property on the Capital?
That's an entertaining idea.

>>2467465
>>2467519
>phobos
I'm assuming you mean Ceres.
That all is a bit more complicated.
>And maybe a good word in to Kharbos and Helios would also bring in another two of the seven.
You're certainly headed in the right direction though. It's not going to be something the Ruling House on its own would or should push for.

>>2467529
>What does the House need to grow to the next level?
Time to lose its overextension flag unfortunately.
The bulk of the South Reach and DRH 1 territories are effectively considered a core part of the House now, though really they haven't been held that long in the grand scheme of things. The additional territories picked up as a result of the Civil War means House J-D has more than a decade to come out of overextension.

Fortunately you asked for protection from the Ruling House making that much easier to wait for. Ber'helum also hold a number of worlds in trust for J-D in the DRH 2 Relay.
Strengthening the House's power base, or getting more worlds/systems held in trust while under protection would seem like a good idea.
>>
>>2467978
What about a tech level 3 heavy cruiser shipyard for both the home territories and DRH1, and an upgrade to tech level 3 for the one at Surakeh? We didn't have proper shipyards of the size 3 years ago.

>>2467954
>Us obtaining the production licenses for it would be a HUGE boost for us.
We have no idea how profitable these actually are, and we'd be very likely be limited to who we're actually allowed to sell.

>Besides who would be stupid enough to actually steal it and use it?
The Neeran? Any House that's willing to simply burrow the data for a few decades?
>>
>>2467978
Yes Ceres, not sure why I got Phobo's.
>>
>>2467996
I think one level 3 heavy shipyard would be the limit maybe. Probably the Surakeh one since Alex will be making use of his favor to later upgrade the yard above his planet.
Or I suppose one of the refit yards at Loran II could be upgraded.

>We have no idea how profitable these actually are
You're right. Nobody does because of how classified info on grav-well generator production is. It's a good bet most of their profits have been going right back into design improvements, upgrades and R&D.

>>2467997
Well they are named after rocks from the same solar system.
>>
>>2468009
>Nobody does because of how classified info on grav-well generator production is
I expect it to also require hideously expensive factories to build things like the singularity generator and the specially strengthened ship bits that keep these vessels from collapsing once the generator has been activated. Which in turn might require some funky resources that J-D has no access to. Without knowing more details I'm still going to say we're too smol. Not only because of security concerns but also because of our comparatively limited industrial capacities.
>>
>>2467978

>Private property on the Capital?

Political power? Why is it an entertaining idea?
>>
Count Jerik thinks that property on the capital world of the Dominion, while extremely specialised, would certainly have its uses in the long term. If only because you'll have tons of people trying to negotiate with you for its use. Space on the capital world is limited and therefore valuable.

An upgraded heavy cruiser shipyard would also be quite useful, though there would be some debate over where it would be best to put it.

"Did you have any particular preference Viscount?"

[ ] Grav-well generator production license
[ ] Terraformable twin world system
[ ] Fast Super IOU (Later improved model?)
[ ] Private property on the Capital
[ ] Level 3 heavy cruiser shipyard
>>
>>2468074
>[x] Terraformable twin world system
>[x] Fast Super IOU (Later improved model?)
>>
>>2468074
>[ ] Private property on the Capital

I like the idea of it being "entertaining".
>>
>>2468074
>[ ] Private property on the Capital
>>
>>2468074
>[ ] Grav-well generator production license
This works so very very well with the proposed idea of marriage with the Harmen family. It would make us all the more attractive in their eyes and should allow us to get some very juice deals from them.

Failing that.
[ ] Level 3 heavy cruiser shipyard
>>
>>2468074
Time for another survey?

>[ ] Private property on the Capital
Aside from the production license, this is the only thing we will likely not be able to get by throwing money at somebody.
Time to build the Kavos Lva memorial orphanarium and kindergarten on a piece of real estate that's worth more than a star system.
>>
>>2468074
>[ ] Private property on the Capital
>>
>>2468074

I think >>2468033 hit the nail on the head for building the Grav-Well. And while I think it would be neat to build our own. With the incoming sanctions from the FA on when and how to use these things. It might be counter productive to have the ability to build it and just leave it at the RH level. We should already have one of the things in our employ/ ownership, right? Unless the sanctions have already been put in place by now and are not horrendous.

So my choices would be
>[ ] Grav-well generator production license
>[ ] Terraformable twin world system

Harmen family better bring a lot of love for us to that negotiation table.
>>
>>2468102
Arguably, the private property could be more valuable alliance-wise.
>>
>>2468105
Well what are some benefits to us to having property on the Capital?

We already have good report with the Emperor. B'H is already our good friend/ ally.

If we were to get land there on the capital. What would we use it for? I am certain that the RH has rules/ laws on exactly what can and cannot be built on the capital. And the people who would approach us to rent that space would likely use it either to petition the RH for something or to use whatever we build there on the capital. All houses from big to small already have embassies there, so if they really wanted to talk to the RH or stay somewhere on that world they could just use their embassy.
>>
>>2468102
>We should already have one of the things in our employ/ ownership, right?
Yes. The Navigators guild has a bit of a timeshare on it for use in orbital correction.
>>
>>2468121
First of all, Land is tied deeply to Nobility and status.

Second, it's land on the Capital. That's not something that you can just buy. So it has status attached to it.

Third, because it's on the Capital, it provides access not just to the seat of government and other nobles, but to other factions. Not just by being a place to base out of, but a right and an expectation to be able to go there freely and privately.
>>
>>2468127
>>2468133
Am I hitting any nails on the head? It's the leading vote so far, but not by much. More info would be good.
>>
>>2468133

Okay, I can see how that would give us a really big PR boost. But do we want to solely go for just land on the capital in exchange for the lensing system? Or try our luck with getting something else along with the property on the capital?
>>
>>2468133
>>2468135
>Am I hitting any nails on the head?
I think you're making some good points.

>>2468121
>What would we use it for?
Up to you guys. Get it zoned for residential, commercial, industrial, or see if you can generate interest from Houses or megacorps who might want to acquire it themselves.
You could even trade it to your own House.
>>
>>2468152
Wouldn't it be a smarter idea to pick what we want for the grav tech once we actually know how much money we have available after the past 3 years and how our various projects are doing?
>>
>>2468157
If you think so.

I'm still working on the finances.
>>
>>2468152
Can we only get one thing?
>>
>>2468165
You could probably negotiate for 2 but that will annoy the Ruling House.
>>
>>2468175
Sticking with owning land then, if it's of equal weight with the others.
>>
>>2468175
Seriously we already have so many other projects and such.

Like our alien geneticists and such.
>>
So are we telling the Count that you're leaning, Private property on the Capital now? Or waiting until the finances are ready?
>>
>>2468241
Tell him that we're leaning that way now, but we're checking our finances.

Maybe to go another direction. Maybe to contribute towards the property.

If he could get some options for us to look at his counsel would be appreciated.
>>
>>2468241

Leaning towards property on the capital, but if he has options that he think would be better I will be more open to listening also, yeah wait until we get our finances figured out before making a final decision.
>>
>>2468241
Yeah let's get him to start looking.

I can't wait to read his reaction.
>>
>>2468241
Say we're leaning that way .
>>
Can we visit the Fast Super yard if they're along the route to the Capital? It would be nice to see it and meet the people making it happen.
>>
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"I'm considering private property on the Capital since it would give me plenty of options later on. It's not like it will ever go down in value. I'll hold off on locking that in until I'm more certain of my current finances.
Though if you think something else would be better for the House please let me know."

"Very well. I'll discuss it with the Council to see if they have any better ideas, or ways to better utilize land on the capital." The Count checks the itinerary, urging you to continue.

Since the Ruling House has been a point of discussion you mention that there is a gift you'll need to deliver to the Emperor on behalf of the Caretakers.
"What's in it?"
"I don't know, which has me a little nervous."

And rightly so. It's highly unlikely the Caretakers would use you as an assassination vector. Despite this you're not sure what reaction you'll get when presenting a gift you dont know the contents of. Precautions will need to be taken. The Count suggests calling ahead to the Royal Guard so they can have things ready.

Next is the Weather control tower data. As your mission sabotaging one of these devices showed they can be incredibly powerful tools. It would certainly help speed terraforming efforts. The Harmen family and their terraforming business would obviously benefit from it but the question is, how best to approach them with it?

"They certainly wouldn't be happy about trading you more shares of the company." the Count confirms. "You own more shares than I do despite my family connections with them."

And to think at one point you considered the offered 5% to be too small.

The two of you discuss options. Trading the tech for shares is still there but isn't ideal simply because neither side would be entirely satisfied regardless of the outcome. Still could work as a fallback option.

A similar idea it to trade the tech for the rights to buy additional shares up to a set amount. This might cost you a lot of money in the short term, but in the long term would easily pay itself back through shareholder dividends.

Another idea was to form a new company that would manufacture the new weather control systems and simply sell them to established terraforming businesses. You wouldn't be limited in selling just to the House then. Deals could probably be made to allow the Harmen family to buy them at a lower price in return for reduced taxes on the business, that sort of thing.

Lastly, you could try to simply sell them the data. It's unlikely they'd be able to pay you immediately in cash, but they could compensate you in land on one or more planets currently undergoing terraforming. That could be worth many Billions in a few years.

>Cont.
>>
"Could any of these plans be combined with a political marriage to lessen the negative consequences?" you ask.

The Count is understandably surprised by this sudden change in your usual financial tactics.
"Er... yes. Yes that would be possible. Trading the tech for shares or setting up a manufacturing compan for the systems would work."

Under such an agreement they would probably prefer that the rights to the shares or the manufacturing company would go to any potential heirs. They'd certainly lose much their reluctance to trade more shares if that were the case.
>>
It would seem that a vast majority would support a political marriage to Troy Harmen. With that in mind which of the plans would you support?

[ ] Trading the tech for shares*
[ ] Trade tech for rights to buy additional shares
[ ] Form a new company to produce systems*
[ ] Sell them the data

*-better options if combined with pm

Or were there any other ideas related to the weather control tech?
>>
>>2468417
>[x] Form a new company to produce systems*
>>
>>2468417
>[ ] Form a new company to produce systems*

Combined with PM.
>>
>>2468417
>[ ] Form a new company to produce systems*
>>
>>2468417
>[x] Form a new company to produce systems
As long as the other participants of the expeditions get a share of the profits I'm okay with setting up a separate company.
>>
>>2468417
>[ ] Form a new company to produce systems*

So I I have a question if we had any kids with whoever we decided on marrying. Would inherit our wealth and title if that were possible. But if we were to say marry Troy, would that mean any kids we have would they be Harmens or Reynards? I feel like this is a stupid question to ask, but I feel a need to ask it.
>>
>>2468417
Seems set.

We also getting married?
>>
>>2468428
>As long as the other participants of the expeditions get a share of the profits I'm okay with setting up a separate company.
Would there be any support for this?

>>2468440
>Would inherit our wealth and title if that were possible.
They'd inherit your lands (probably, depends more on your will) but the title of Viscount is a position assigned to whoever becomes Baron of Rioja.
If someone wants that title they have to work for it.

>But if we were to say marry Troy, would that mean any kids we have would they be Harmens or Reynards? I feel like this is a stupid question to ask, but I feel a need to ask it.
Not a stupid question and this could be specified in the prenuptial agreement(s).
They could either go by Harmen, or you could request that it be Reynard-Harmen. It seemed to work for Battletech.

>>2468453
It does seem that way.
>>
>>2468460
>Would there be any support for this?
I'd like it. We put the team at a lot of risk and everyone agreed voluntarily.
>>
>>2468460
Reynard-Harmen works for me.
>>
>>2468460
>Reynard-Harmen
Reymen? Harnard?

>Would there be any support for this?
I would rather give them a clump sum of bonus money as opposed over this very valuable and rare technology.
>>
>>2468483
>I would rather give them a clump sum of bonus money as opposed over this very valuable and rare technology.
Compromise: Each party member is offered either shares in the new manufacturing company or a one time lump sum of money.
>>
>>2468488
That works.
>>
>>2468488
Fair enough.
>>
>>2468460
>Would there be any support for this?
Sure, we could give them some extra cash or stocks in it.

>Title
So it would be up to the count on who gets that title. That's fine. But seeing how we hold the majority land on Rioja, would that not make them the most viable choice to be the next Viscount(ess)? Or does land not take in to account for titles?

Also if titles aren't passed on. Would that just mean our kids would just be minor lords or ladies, no title just land and money?

>Kids
Thanks, Reynard-Harmen is fine I feel.
>>
>>2468495
>But seeing how we hold the majority land on Rioja, would that not make them the most viable choice to be the next Viscount(ess)? Or does land not take in to account for titles?
Only if they've done everything necessary to become a Baron first, such as leading a fleet as a Knight Commander. If they have then yes, very good chances.

Becoming Planetary Governor of Rioja on the other hand would be far easier being more of a civilian position for members of the nobility.

>Also if titles aren't passed on. Would that just mean our kids would just be minor lords or ladies, no title just land and money?
They'd be Lords, though certainly fairly important ones. Land and money are both big deals.
Assuming there were never any wars in their lifetimes the established nobility are among the top picks for leadership roles. As they generally have access to the best schools and training growing up that would give them even better chances. Ultimately they still have to prove they're worth a damn.

Some planetary governorships do become near hereditary simply because the kids growing up there see how things are done and know how their planets work. It's easy for them to take over after the death or retirement of a family member because they're qualified.
>>
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>>2468460
>Try to get dumb hexahedral planetary bullying platform
>Takes several threads and surveys
>Never goes anywhere
>Marriage idea crops up again despite being shot down before
>One thread and one survey with very sensible options
>Anons are actually enthusiastic about it
I'm going to take a break.
>>
>>2468567
Enjoy your time away!

We have a dress to pick eventually - for a ball! To socialize and brag about our achievements and triumphant return and talk to the Harmens.
>>
>>2468567
I likewise thought it was never going to happen.

Important question: did you vote?
>>
>>2468567
Don't feel bad Anon, I always voted for the Kilo and Barge versions whenever I could.
>>
So you've decided. You'll form a new company to manufacture the weather control systems. Each of the party members that took part in the Sphere expedition will be offered either shares or a one time lump sum of money. You don't really know how much it's going to be worth so it might take a few months to get to that point but you can at least ask them.
Mentally you tick of things needed to build such things, small R&D and testing shop, an isolated manufacturing center. Could probably set things up for 100 mil. Or get it rolling.

Also the other thing...
"How would you recommend approaching the Harmen family about a political marriage?"

The Count shrugs.
"You could have your people call their people. It would be a good starting point to see if there might be any interest.
If you'd prefer I could pass along the offer. It's not every day that some of the richest families in the House discuss these things.
Or, you could simply approach the person in question yourself."

Things aren't set in stone yet but once these sort of questions start being asked it's going to generate interest among certain parties. If you're planning to back out of the marriage scheme it would be best to do so sooner not later.

[ ] Have your people contact their people
[ ] Ask the Count to pass along offer
[ ] Talk to Troy Harmen yourself
[ ] Postpone marriage plans
>>
>>2468635
>[ ] Talk to Troy Harmen yourself

I mean. It's only polite to see if he's even interested first.
>>
>>2468635
>[ ] Talk to Troy Harmen yourself
>>
>>2468635
>[ ] Talk to Troy Harmen yourself

If he's not in to it then there isnt much hope for it to be anything other than a short fling. Which would be wrong in my opinion.
>>
>>2468635
>[x] Postpone marriage plans
>>
>>2468635
>[ ] Talk to Troy Harmen yourself
>>
It might be best to go talk to Troy about this yourself.

Before leaving there remain a few more things to discuss. The political landscape of the House and any problems it currently has.

Integration of House Erid is going well thanks to a combination of the former House's poor morale and old claims by House Dremine. As you've been aware plenty of former Erid citizens are making their way to the colonies, including Rioja. This is helping to offset in the steady influx of refugees from Terran, Shallan and even Kavarian space.

The J-D homeworlds are themselves allowing very few refugees in. There are enough problems at home without adding the ones that come with refugee populations. The colonies in the Run are having difficulty with malcontents. Tamoren Balle has stamped out an illegal organization that had been forming within the Shallan populations of the House winning considerable recognition. Enough that she might have a run at Planetary Governor when Chide Dlam'ard retires.

Some of these organisations are simply crime rings but others have been identified as rebellious groups that might be trying to support efforts against the Shallan military. While technically guilty of sedition the captured perpetrators have not been executed. For now they've been moved to a stasis prison until a use for them can be found.

"Someone may be able to find a use for them once the war is over. Especially if the Shallan military fails to hand power back to their people."

Maybe you could have Mezan talk to a few of them?

Refugee Terran citizens facing similar charges are given the choice of jail time, deportation or letting Terran intel recruit them. For what you don't know and the Count suggests not asking.

Drake and L'ak Tenni in the new territories are having some of the worst problems. Uprisings and rebellion aren't the sort of joke like what is faced in the Run with refugees. Many people are not happy with their territory being conquered during the Civil War. A substantial portion of the populace expected their worlds would be retaken or liberated in a couple of months. In the years since then it's resulted in a long and sometimes bloody struggle.

Drake has learned a lot from you serving at Rioja. She's created special police taskforces that can quickly respond to incidents and drop the heavy end of the hammer. Setting up and maintaining these groups has cost a lot of money but it seems to be working. Tenni has had a harder time but the situation continues to improve.

"I didn't know things were that bad."
"News from the new territories has to be censored or it would encourage other rebellions to flare up. More political marriages have been necessary to stabilize things. Some of these worlds have minimal human populations so it has been a bit more difficult establishing ties they feel will matter. A few Rebellion leaders have tried spreading falsehoods that Dro'all have no power in our House."
>>
>>2468826
> She's created special police taskforces that can quickly respond to incidents and drop the heavy end of the hammer. Setting up and maintaining these groups has cost a lot of money but it seems to be working.

Ah, yes, our time tested tactics of overwhelming precisely applied force and deep pockets.

Is she funding her teams by looting their enemies?
>>
>>2468916
>Is she funding her teams by looting their enemies?
When possible. Fortunately she doesn't need to rely on that alone or her own personal profits. Her planet being habitable with established industry and populations produces this wonderful thing called tax money. Sure a lot of it goes to the House but the rest is available to spend on things like her fleet, improvements to defenses, the Governor's PDF, etc.
>>
>>2468945
It has been three years. Our world was close to being sustainable. Surely we are now receiving that mythical thing that every other habitable world makes yearly.
>>
>>2468945
Pfft. Taxes are for casuals. It'S A VaLiD StRAtEgy
>>
>>2468945
Does she have sweet loot from strange spheres?

An awesome amplifier arm? Wait, we don't either? Fuuuuuuuuuck.
>>
>>2468945
Damn dude we've gone on an expedition to a hellscape when the real treasure was at home already.
>>
While the situation has been bad in the newly acquired Centri cluster territories it has been far better elsewhere. Daska and Winifred have made considerable headway pacifying the worlds and systems added to the House in their regions. Their records when it came to first taking the nearby systems meant that the locals were willing to give them a chance.
Daska in particular has worked hard to allay concerns that the existing nobles and business owners wouldn't just have their holdings confiscated. A few have been bought out of course but overall it's just seen as business.

"And you'll be happy to know that your sister is now one of the leading pirate hunters in South Reach. At least for our House."
"Really? She didn't say anything about that."
"Oh? Well she's not the most disciplined I've heard. She's be a Knight Lieutenant by now if it weren't for all of the incidents."

You laugh weakly. "Yeah, that's her alright."

As you're aware some of the alliances the House has been in have been strained as a result of Ber'helum becoming Ruling House. The Run Alliance is holding together though it remains strained. The Count and others are still looking at ways to help solidify it. If an opportunity should come up you're to keep that in mind.

In general the House is in a better state than it has been and continues to improve. Good news overall.

The Count is a bit concerned that Alex might be putting too much time and effort into his pet project. So far it hasn't compromised his ability to maintain his world and keep the nearby sectors secure. to all reports the Baron of Alaior is keeping everything running smoothly. On the other hand his attendance to balls and social gatherings is well below what it used to be.

"It's not yet a problem but if it becomes one I'm sure he would prefer hearing it from you."
>>
>>2468997
>the Baron of Alaior is keeping everything running smoothly. On the other hand his attendance to balls and social gatherings is well below what it used to be.

So because he isn't spending his time at parties is causing people concern?

"Alex, you're causing the nobles a concern with your lack of participation at balls."

That sounds ridiculous to me, but if the Count wants us to pass a message on to Alex to at least mingle with the nobility a little more. Hm, maybe we could help spin it to him that if he spends a few minutes at a few gatherings he could also build political backing for his project. And get others off him in worrying that he's going to use his project to nefarious reasons. Also getting backers who would be interested in getting more information from him rather then word of mouth from his PR reps.
>>
Before I forget, we need to investigate the 'strangeness' of the Regeneration artifact that Veur described.
>>
>>2468997
K
>>
While here you bring up the issue of Magdalena. Knight Commander Nel'odym would very much like to become Baron of that world given their history.

It seems the Count suspected the two of you had come to an agreement on that before you left. It looks like the nobles of Magdalena have held up their end of the bargain while you were gone.

"The nobles of that world have been well behaved enough since we liberated them from Nasidum that I think we can meet this accommodation. I will keep the other potential Knight Commanders away from it."

"Thank you."

With that done you are rather interested in what political moves others have made against you while away. Obviously Nel'odym and gang have served as a regional line of defense for your people but elsewhere that might not have been possible.

The Count, as promised, provided political protection to you during the Civil War and Rioja's rapid development. Really that should have been it. Fortunately as you asked the Emperor for protection for the House it seemed the least the Count could do was extend the same to you. With those ground rules set down there have been only the most basic attempts to work against your (absent) rule.

If anything it seems that with you not being there to wave the flag your opponents didn't see you as being much of a threat. That certainly made the Count's life easier.

"I suspect most have been to busy focusing their efforts on establishing themselves in the newly acquired territories. You haven't been here to race them for it or you might have been a legitimate target.
I can't keep protecting you forever though. With you back your opponents eyes will be once more drawn to Rioja and your businesses. Harden your defenses and strengthen your political ties to parts of the House. Those are your best tickets to coming out unscathed."

"How long will I have to hold on for?"

"Oh... forever."

"I wouldn't want your job." you admit.

"I know, and that is one of the things I trust about you."
>>
>>2468991
>Damn dude we've gone on an expedition to a hellscape when the real treasure was at home already.
Friendship? Family? No wait, money?
>>
>>2469108
>"I know, and that is one of the things I trust about you."

Cheeky bastard, but eh, it's true.

>Money?
Money came in at a slow enough pace that if we spent time here we would lose our mind of boredom. Or have visited the Sphere.
>>
>>2469108
Does the Dominion accept polygamy?

Salvage all the Husbands! We could build a man slave empire of easily distracted loot panthers reaving the stars and leaving them empty!
>>
>>2469128
>if we spent time here we would lose our mind of boredom.
Probably.

>>2469143
I'm sure some Houses do but when it comes to political marriages to secure alliances? Not so much in that case.
>>
With the meeting over you decide to call it a day. There's plenty of things to do from home still which includes tracking down Troy to talk to him.

A quick check on the networks shows the media and paparazzi on Loran still going crazy with his return more than a week ago. Fortunately they haven't completely connected his disappearance and reappearance with yours. The latest on the media feeds report that he's currently at one of his family's more exclusive horse stables.

The media presence could be a problem if you want to just talk things over. Then again what exactly are they going to say if you're spotted going in?

Securing an invitation should be easy enough. If necessary you could even ask Baron Archivald to extend one. Or if you wanted to keep things quiet you could sneak in with your recon armor and the stealth LST. They've been given the latest updates rolled out over the course of the expedition.

[ ] Contact stables for permission to drop in
[ ] Ask Baron Archivald for an invitation
[ ] Sneak in
>>
>>2469288

I say we contact Archivald and ask for permission to visit, that way we can avoid triggering any defenses around the ranch and the media freak out of our visit, by stealthing our way in to avoid the paparazzi.

Or we could just ask to meet Troy in the station above Loran where there are fewer of the media. Under the guise of 'another mission'.
>>
>>2469288
>[ ] Ask Baron Archivald for an invitation
>[ ] Sneak in

Sneak in and ask his permission.
>>
>>2469307
>Or we could just ask to meet Troy in the station above Loran
Another good option.
>>
>>2469324
I am for talking to him on the station seeing as it is a neutral ground, but if it seems it might be faster to go with the other options. I'll go with what I put previously.
>>
>>2469288
>[x] Sneak in
>[x] Abduct using Recon armor
>>
>>2469313
>>2469339
So we're leaning towards sort of sneaking in.
>>
Contacting Baron Archivald you make small talk for a minute before getting to what you're really calling about. He's surprised you need to see his nephew so soon after returning but agrees it's probably one of the better places to see him without his parents interference.
"They're not particularly pleased with you right now so I dont blame you for wanting to stay away. His horses are kept in the north east stable. It should be easy to find him there when he's returned from riding or changing out horses."

"Thank you."

"Be mindful of the media. Ever since he got back they've been after him. Apparently a visiting dignitary made a comment the other day about him and suddenly everyone thinks something might be going on."

"Uh, is it?"

"How should I know? I've only seen him Christmas day. Why don't you ask him?"

Thanking the Baron again you sign off and head for the shuttle. Within an hour you're aboard the Bittenfeld and breaking orbit. Loran is only a few seconds away at FTL. The longest part is actually waiting for traffic control to direct you to a berth then another wait for the shuttle flight plan to be accepted.

Rather than getting a limo ride into the ranch and being spotted by media that have the area staked out you catch a taxi. Arriving nearby one of your bodyguards steps out wearing their duty uniform to ask one of the photographers what's going on. While the door is open you slip out undetected wearing your armor.
You register at the gate with your invitation but remain invisible going in, paying the guards for putting up with your nonsense. After that it's a short jog down the lane to the stables.

"Short" being relative after tracking across parts of a legit Dyson sphere.

The stables here are solidly constructed, looking more like bunkers from the back sides. From the front they look like long 2 story wooden buildings with the lower levels open to bring the horses in. Stairs at the back lead to the upper levels. Most of it is crafted from the redwood common to the House.

Looking around you eventually spot Troy thanks to his bright red hair. It seems he's trying to help break in a new horse which is misbehaving. After working at this for awhile he coaxes the horse back to the stable.

>What say?
>>
>>2469548
"Glad to see that I'm not the only one horsing around"
>>
>>2469548

Wait for him to get the horse settled and decloak once were safe from being spotted.

>Insert corny joke here

"Would you happen to have some time availible? I'd like to discuss a proposal with you and I would like your input. Before I make a decision on it." Or something along that lines of just making it known we would like to talk with him about something important.
>>
And I'll be picking up tomorrow until I need to leave for a run to the airport.
>>
>>2469548
"Surprise, it's me, your good friend Sonia Reynard."
>>
>>2469548
"You know, with the amount of industry and money I have you would think the media would considering me a desirable bachelorette as well. Speaking of, I got this idea!"
>>
>>2469548
Do this >>2469565

Then ask him if he wants to go out for a dinner, or skydiving, or to the aquarium or whatever they have on his planet.

Then we can ask him about the horses. Get him to talk about them.

Then we ask him if he's ever considered us as a marriage possibility.
>>
>>2470134
That seems rather counter to remaining stealthy with the media watching the front gate.

>>2469548
You step around a corner near the stairs, remaining out of sight while Troy gets his horse settled. Turning off the camo and tucking the helmet oner one arm you step out

"Glad to see that I'm not the only one horsing around."

Troy seems a little wary of your presence on spotting your armor but quickly realises it's you.
"Okay. I don't normally see many people planning to go riding while in stealth armor. Should I ask why you're dressed like that?"

"With the amount of industry and money I have you would think the media would consider me a desirable bachelorette as well."

Troy laughs at this. "Maybe when your world has a population of a few Billion there will be enough demand for it."

Billions? You could barely get your head around how much Rioja had grown over the course of the Civil War. But you're getting side tracked.

"Would you happen to have some time availible? I'd like to discuss a proposal with you and I would like your input before I make a decision on it."

The nobleman shrugs. "Yes, of course. I'll be just a minute. If you head up the stairs and down the hall there should be a small lounge."

Doing as instructed you wait in the upstairs lounge, which looks more like a bar with the number of drinks present. There are seats near the windows overlooking the area and projectors showing a few news feeds with races or competitions on other planets.

Two minutes later Troy enters drying his hands with a small towel, then steps behind the bar.
"Did you want anything to drink?"
Deciding to keep a clear head you just ask for water.

Filling a couple glasses he hands the clear one to you, keeping one that looks like an energy drink for himself.
"There you go. Now, what was it you wanted to talk about?"

"Well uh..."
It occurs to you that you don't really have a lot of experience in this area.

[ ] All in, get this over with
[ ] Talk about the weather control system first
>>
>>2470224
>[ ] All in, get this over with
Time to spill spaghetti trying to explain this one
>>
>>2470224

>[ ] All in, get this over with

No need to belabour the point. Just tell him our plans and see if he has any interest in going along with this, beyond family obligatiins. Also so that we arent just swooping in to take him away from anyone he is currently seeing that he already has a vested interest in.

We can still start up a company with the tech and approach the harmen family for a business partnership or whatever without a marriage.
>>
>>2470224
>[ ] All in, get this over with
>>
>>2470224
>[ ] All in, get this over with
>>
>>2470224
>[ ] All in, get this over with
"Let's form an assault corvette team, Troy."
>>
This would normally be a good time to put your hands in your pockets so that any fidgeting was out of sight. Pockets. No pockets, you're in Recon armor. Fiddling with your plasma pistol tends to make other people nervous so that's out too.

Out of internal excuses you decide it's time to go all in and get this over with.
Deep breath. You can do this. Not too deep or you'll hyperventilate.

"Troy I've been considering my options with getting some of the sphere tech into production and the political implications. With everything going on it would probably be a lot simpler for everyone if I were to um, enter into an Alliance of some kind with your family.
I was wondering if you would have any interest in a political marriage, beyond just your family obligations. The last thing I want is to get in the way of you and anyone else you're seeing right now."

Okay, you managed to spit it out. Now it's all on him, you can just take your time and do slow deep breaths to calm yourself down.

Troy takes a drink then starts to laugh a bit as he sits down on a nearby stool.
"Sorry I'm not laughing at you. It's been what, 12 years since the first ball where my Uncle forced me to pull that trick on you with the laser dot?"

"More like 16 years now with the time skip." you reply, likewise finding a place to sit.

"One of his crazy tests of character. I don't even know what he's done involving other people to see what they're made of. My father certainly wasn't happy he'd bothered with such a thing for an officer from the middle class.
Since then I've always thought of you as being very... genuine. Not like many who are too caught up in posturing. I really hate the politics."

Standing he walks over to the window looking out at a few of the other riders.
"Horseback riding. Way too dangerous for a heir worth billions. That was the closest thing to a rebellious act I could manage. My parents have always hated my interest in it -privately- they'd never dare be seen having a public argument between family members.

They've attempted to set up arranged marriages before, always without asking me. I was able to trade favours with a few people, including my uncle, to sabotage them. That or take deployments to Shallan space to fight there. No one will guarantee a marriage if the people in question are fighting on a planet that might explode from a Scorcher attack.

Of all the people my parents have considered, none of them even thought to ask me first if I might be interested. I might have said yes. So no, I'm not seeing anyone.
Lady Elissa of House Phobos is on planet. The media is going crazy because the first thing she did after arriving was speak to my family. At least you've asked and are honest about it."

>Cont
>>
Considering his words you decide to point out that there is another sphere builder facility to investigate.
"If you're up for flipping off your parents by going on another crazy mission I'm still recruiting for that as well."

This gets a real laugh from him.
"I'll volunteer for that at least. Are you completely serious about the marriage thing though?"

>What say?
>>
>>2470305
"I would not have asked else wise. This isn't really a joking matter to be honest. There obvious benefits to the whole arrangement on almost every level. From technology to politics and military. And the most important part is that I genuinely like you. No, not that like. Not romantically. I am not some blushing bride looking for her prince. But on that front I really think there is something broken with me. But as a friend I really do enjoy your company."
>>
>>2470305

>Lady Elissa of House Phobos

I have two guesses here and one is probably more probable than the other. She is here to either secure the use of some of the Harmen families terraformers for House Phobos for the worlds they were given or that they secured which is the most likely. Or she is here to get a political marriage for use of the terraformers at a far reduced price.

> Are you completely serious about the marriage thing though?

I am for Sonia and Troy hooking up. But I have had this bias since we invited him to the sphere. And very quietly hoping we'd get to this point eventually. I wasn't expecting us to get here NOW but some time eventually down the line. Still I wont look a gift horse in the mouth.
>>
And I have to be off! Not sure what time I'll be back.

>>2470310
Looks like I'm not going to need my movie quotes from Shenandoah.
>>
>>2470305
> Should I have got down on one knee? I'm not from nobility originally so . . .
>>
>>2470305
Also I support this

> "I would not have asked else wise. This isn't really a joking matter to be honest. There obvious benefits to the whole arrangement on almost every level. From technology to politics and military. And the most important part is that I genuinely like you."

Let's leave off the part about us being broken. We aren't an edgy teenager.
>>
>>2470305
>Are you completely serious about the marriage thing though?"
"If I wasn't serious I wouldn't have snuck in wearing my Armor."
>>
>>2470305

>>2470350
>>2470353
These
>>
To think I would live to see Sonia start the event of marriage.

Thank you for all the hard work you have put into this TSTG, I don't think many of us will ever forget this quest.
For Salvage, House and Dominion!
>>
How fast do you guys think the Fast Super is going to go? I'm hoping it's absolutely crazy, something like non-afterburner Medium speed.
>>
>>2470665
Faster than some heavy cruisers.
Some of the slower medium cruisers intended for escort duties might need to actually work to keep up. Which means if they weren't already running when it showed up they'd have no chance of escape. Especially if paired with long range guns.
>>
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>20 hours ago
>decide to get a late night snack
>notice bag of rice I've been saving is empty
>wait WTF? All the rice is gone?!
>mouse has chewed a hole in the bag
>SONOFABITCH!
>Today
>Iamfortifyingthisposition.gif
>1 hour later
>1x dead mouse

Victor Mouse traps, if you guys want some endorsements let me know.
>>
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>>2471062

That is some shit luck. Good thing you got him. Maybe keep the traps out a little more just to make sure you don't have any more unwanted rodent roommates?
>>
>>2471062
Is there any other kind of mouse trap?
>>
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>>2471175
Many. My grandfather swore these were among the best ever made.
>>
"If I wasn't serious I wouldn't have snuck in wearing my Armor." you point out.
Causing an uproar among the easily provoked media really might have been something to try if you were intending to mislead them.

"This isn't really a joking matter to be honest. There are obvious benefits to the whole arrangement on almost every level. From technology to politics and military. And the most important part is that, I genuinely like you."

"Really?"

"Well, yes. I'm not blindly, not romantically in love with you like some blushing school girl, but I do like you."

"I know plenty of nobles that are terrified of you. That you're plotting the destruction of the House, or expecting you to turn all the worlds into Republics filled with pirates and murderers. Idiots but whatever.
I'm guessing suggesting this wasn't all part of your master plan?"

You shrug.
"I certainly wasn't expecting to end up here now suggesting marriage, but maybe some time eventually down the line with someone."

Troy looks out through the window again then downs the rest of his drink and heads behind the bar for some water.
"It does make a lot of sense. I'd rather get married to someone honest than a, well, a dressed up tart that expects to get whatever they want by batting their eyelashes. Especially that latter group prefers to stab the other person in the back whenever they dont get what they want.
Just because that worked for my Mother doesn't make it appealing."

Not sure how to respond to that one you wait for him to continue.

"I guess I'm saying yes? I'll need to see if it's possible to bring my parents around to the idea first. That could take a few weeks."

"Take your time. I shouldn't be difficult to track down." you reply.

Getting ready to put your helmet back on again you belatedly realise you haven't fully planned your exfiltration yet again.
"I did it again."

"What?"

"What's the quietest way out of here?"

The red head laughs. "Put your helmet on and follow me. I needed to take one of the other Horses out on a longer trail anyways. Your armor can keep up right?"

"Hell yes."
>>
>>2471308
>"I did it again."
>"What?"
If you think this is bad, try the time I cut the power to an aircar whilst I was still on it.
>>
>>2471321
We don't talk about that.

But still, during the ride we should talk to him about the upcoming plans we have and see what would be helpful to convince his parents.

After all, we wouldn't be proposing marriage in the first place if we didn't think he was trustworthy Make sure to say that, it sounds like trust is a big thing for Troy.
>>
>during the ride we should talk to him about the upcoming plans we have and see what would be helpful to convince his parents.

You never exactly kept the gravity well terraforming thing a secret, even before testing began. With Troy being there when you secured the gravity and weather control data on the Sphere he's had a pretty good idea of what you plans are going to be.

"I've been debating telling my parents what exactly the team came back from the sphere with. Aside from advanced weapons and armor the likes of which they've never seen before. I know a thing or two about weather control systems so I know exactly how powerful that tech could be. That alone would be enough to get their attention."

So everything else after that would be an added bonus. That's where the real negotiation would come in you suspect. It might be a good idea to get Fadila here on a fast ship to help out in that case.

[ ] Get her here ASAP
[ ] You can pay the communications bills for remote work
>>
I'll be running tomorrow evening probably after 5PM and earlier in the day Saturday.
>>
>>2471504
>[ ] Get her here ASAP

Failing that we should have more then enough to foot any bill for long range comms.
>>
>>2471504
>[x] You can pay the communications bills for remote work
>>
>>2471504
>[ ] Get her here ASAP

Partly just to show we can. I assume that would cost more than remote work though?
>>
>>2471543
I mean we own multiple ships that go fast. A true display of wealth and power would be to commander the Foreberance and its fleet JUST to get Fadilla from Rioja to us ASAP.
>>
>>2471554
Nah. We need a ship that isn't so overwhelmingly armed, but one instead that is rare.

Like that shark hologram one from the movies we made.
>>
>>2471662
We have a ship in the shape of a Shark with a Plasma Cannon in its mouth.
>>
>>2471664
Yeah, The Great Devourer!
>>
So I have another question for you TSTG. Involving Planetary Governors and noble famillies. Using Sonia and Planetary Governor Lord Dlam'ard as the primary example because I am curious about how things will play out in the distant future.

Since Sonia owns the most land and any descendants she has will inherit her things minus the massive fleets and military power. What about Dlam'ard and any of his family members or descendants, if they choose to continue to purse being Planetary Governors. Wont there be a dispute over who would be the most eligible Planetary Governor? Between Sonia's descendants if they want to be the next Planetary Governor and whoever wants to be the next Planetary Governor. Does the Count and Council then step in and decide at that point?

If I remember correctly, the Count and Council wanted us to support Lord Dlam'ard to be the Planetary Governor. And we were fine with it and I still am. But now that I am thinking about future stuff, what happens if Sonia's descendants do not pursue a military career and do not become Barons but instead pursue a more civilian route such as becoming the Governor of the planet. Does their being the more powerful/ influence noble family present on the planet give them a clear advantage and first choice to being the next governor. Or can the Count and Council place another in charge of Rioja if they feel that said descendant is not suitable to the task of Planetary Governor.

Not entirely sure what I want to say. Other then, how would a future conflict of interest be prevented or solved before tempers flare. On who gets to be the next Planetary Governor.
>>
>>2471504
4chan is back up!
>>
>>2471828
>What about Dlam'ard and any of his family members or descendants, if they choose to continue to purse being Planetary Governors. Wont there be a dispute over who would be the most eligible Planetary Governor?
This is why ultimately Count Jerik has the final say in appointing nobles to the position of Governor. He'll (usually) appoint the person best suited to it. That doesn't mean there won't be competition. Vying political groups often want to get one of their member appointed as Governor of particular worlds.
Generally after a set period of time the Count will look at appointing a new Governor. The length of time can vary by planet. If a Governor is very secure in their position it can be difficult to remove them. In that case it can seem easier to leave them in place. Worst case scenario the Baron of that world will be asked to give them the boot.

Conversely if a Governor suddenly becomes very unpopular the Count could have them replaced. Say, with someone the planet's population might find more agreeable.

>Does the Count and Council then step in and decide at that point?
Yes. Often disputes are mediated with one Governor having control for a number of years, then the other candidate getting their shot in the next term.

>If I remember correctly, the Count and Council wanted us to support Lord Dlam'ard to be the Planetary Governor.
There were concerns you weren't supporting enough dro'all interests in the House I think. Their appointment helped alleviate that considerably.

>descendants
>Does their being the more powerful/ influence noble family present on the planet give them a clear advantage and first choice to being the next governor.
It certainly does give an advantage as they'd be the single largest landowner and there are entire cities on your property. The Governor is supposed to help business on the planet and thus they'd have a vested interest in improving the economy.

>Or can the Count and Council place another in charge of Rioja if they feel that said descendant is not suitable to the task of Planetary Governor.
They can.
As stated above though that can be made more difficult if say, your descendant had a substantial private army. Or threatens to shut down the economy on their rival. That can quickly become a dangerous game.
>>
>>2472035
Was it down for very long?
>>
>>2472080
somewhere between 5 and 9 hours I think
>>
>>2471543
>I assume that would cost more than remote work though?
A bit. It's also a bit of an inconvenience for Fadila but will make negotiations easier.

As for fast ships there are now higher speed luxury liners available. Someone borrowed the high speed FTL systems available on the new Dominion mining barge/multi use hull and adapted them for an existing liner design. Upgraded drive sections have been copied from Escort Carriers.

>>2472087
Wow. Glad I was in too much of a hurry to post anything this morning I guess.
>>
>>2472120
>>2472120
What would be most impressive without being . . . concerning, for our potential in-laws?
>>
>>2472124
Probably wont matter to them since she'd most likely be arriving at Dreminth first.

A diplomatic courier ship is probably a thing that exists. Modified escort carrier hull, defensive systems only. Landing bays and docking points for LSTs and shuttles. Would certainly be better than jumping in one of your EC-K attack ships or waiting for the next liner to visit.
>>
>>2472133
Well that sounds like a good plan then.
>>
>>2472133
It works now.
>>
>>2472138
test
>>
You send word to Fadila to get to the Centri cluster ASAP as it looks like you may need her help negotiating the terms of a diplomatic marriage.

"Are you serious? I thought you just asked for that list so that your mother would stop annoying you about it."

"I've talked to Troy Harmen and he's going to try and convince his parents."
"What did you say to him?"
"I asked him first instead of his parents. Also I didn't try to lie to him."

Fadila mutters that she wished she'd thought of those.
"I'll take our new diplomatic transport and be there within a week. Please don't do anything to mess this up before I arrive."

"Just because I've made a few missteps over the years doesn't mean I'm going to sabotage it."

Sonia subconscious I/O

surveymonkey
com /r/ W67KBXN
>>
>>2472202
Test?
>>
>>2472133
It works now.
>>
>>2472202
Why would you do this.
>>
>>2472208
I was seeing posts by some people across the site but still wouldn't let me for the longest time.
>>
>>2472055
>Answers
Thank you.

Drink something and calm down? Maybe focus on getting in contact with Drake and see how they are doing and if they need our assistance. Or talk to Alex, someone to distract us until Fadila gets here.
>>
Over the next few days while waiting for Fadila to arrive, or the Harmen family to make contact, you help out your mother with a few things. Odd jobs she's too stubborn to hire anyone else to look after, a bit of shopping, you even looking after your brother for a bit.

"I don't need a babysitter mom!" Ethan helpfully announces.
It does give you and your little brother a chance to hang out.

Back with mom you mention the idea of marketing some of the games and puzzles included in her present. It would give her and dad another income source.
"Because we really need more money at this point? Honestly Sonia the amount of money we're making off of this building is staggering enough since we upgraded it. We're fine as it is and more will just make it even more complicated."

Good point. Things with your finances are terribly complicated at times.

You get a priority secure message from Troy. The Harmen family have agreed to negotiate.

>What do you tell your parents?
>>
>>2472227

Honestly I'd rather say nothing, but it wouldn't be right to leave them in the dark. Maybe invite them to the cabin and hint that mom and dad should be checking the news or their mail for something big/ important in the coming days. Nothing life threatening, but something big is going to happen.
>>
>>2472227
Take them out to dinner with Fadila to go over how these things work.
>>
>>2472211
There will always be a divisive element. Anons who dont want the same thing as was voted on a few days ago.
A voice in Sonia's head.
>>
>>2472227
"Hmm, you guys wanted grand-kids right?"
>>
>>2472235
Fadila is still a day or two out. They could meet one she gets here.
>>
You quickly contact Fadila passing on the message and once she's had a chance to respond copy Troy that you'll see him in a few days.

Next you invite Mom and Dad out to the lodge once your father has returned from orbit.
"Any particular reason you invited us out here tonight?" asks Dad.

"I hope it's not because she's gone ahead and bought us another building."

"No mom, you said you didn't want any more complications money wise. For you that is. I can still add lots of complications to what happens to my stuff out on Rioja."

"Uh-oh." your father adjusts his seating position, just in case he needs to suddenly stop mom from jumping up.

You sigh. "It's not just a complication. Look it wouldn't be right to leave you two in the dark. You might be getting some invitations in the mail in the not too distant future and that shouldn't be the first time you hear about this."

"Spit it out Sonia."

"Hmm, you guys wanted grand-kids right?"

Mom and Dad both speak over each other.
"You're pregnant?" "You're getting married?"

They both look at one another and dad motions for mom to go ahead.
"You're getting married because you're pregnant?"

Oh no.

[ ] "You know what, maybe I should have just waited for the invitations."
[ ] Explain
>>
>>2472349
>[] "You know what, maybe I should have just waited for the invitations."
>>
>>2472349
Sigh and say

>[ ] "You know what, maybe I should have just waited for the invitations."

No not pregnant. Not planning on having any kids just yet so you'll have to stow that excitement for now. But you could at least look forward to your daughter being married in the near future. I wont say with who, because there are still plenty of details to hammer out. But you can expect it to be in the near future.
>>
>>2472349
>[ ] "You know what, maybe I should have just waited for the invitations."

We live in the future, that doesn't happen by accident.

Shit.

Are we a virgin?
>>
>>2472366

Chalk that up to the rumor mill that someone just probably thought about.

Sonia has been to busy for lewds. Marriage is about as close as I'd dare say we get to such things. This is after all a family friendly board, right?
>>
>>2472366
>We live in the future, that doesn't happen by accident.
People are given what is basically a shot that will last for 4 years when they first enter the military. It's intended to prevent such things from happening.
After 4 years they leave it up to people to get boosters or not. Or the Dominion does anyways, the Terrans might do things differently.
>>
"No, mom, no I'm not pregnant. You know what, maybe I should have just waited for the invitations. This is- I'm- I'm just going outside."

Stepping out into the night air you take a few deep breaths.
From inside you hear dad.
"You know, I think that went well. OW! What was that for?"

At the very least they know you're getting married. The details still have to be worked out so until they're in place there isn't any point in saying to who or whom. Neither of them are objecting to it which is good, they're just very surprised what with your history and general lack of interest over the years.

Both of them wish you luck when they leave for the night and ask you to let them know when the invitations are ready so they can find our what's going on.

When Fadila arrives the two of you get to work along with the company lawyers. A number of preliminary meetings are carried out leading up to a big one with Troy and his parents.
>>
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When it comes to considerations on what the two sides can offer you have quite a bit. Access to large amounts of short term money as long as the war is on. Gravity well terraforming. Your shares in the terraforming company. As well as the new weather control tech. Those are the things they're most likely to be immediately interested in.

Your RSS assets also include things like station construction, shipyard, mining, transport and of course salvage. Plus the securities/mercenary arm of the company. The only thing there of immediate interest to them would be station construction. Loran has tons of orbital infrastructure, some of which is being upgraded by your company assets. If you needed another bargaining chip, it's there.

The Harmen family may not have the same immediate cash reserves but they do have deep pockets for the long term thanks to their land investments. If the war ended tomorrow they'd quickly have more money than you.
Their terraforming company is established and has connections to two dozen Houses. Their deals don't always involving buying land and selling it once it's livable. Just as often they're small contracts providing specialists or atmospheric processors. Survey and prospecting work to determine if target worlds are worth the effort. They almost always complete these contracts and those they deal with consider them to be very reliable.

The orbital division of their company is capable of building solar shrouds and reflector arrays. You've seen a few before that had been damaged by pirate attacks. None have been constructed recently because of resources needed for the war effort. They may have done some reconstruction work in South Reach repairing old ones you helped cripple or destroy.

What they also have are political connections and power throughout the House. Much of these are to the established nobility, though they have resources beyond them. Old family alliances might not seem like much at times but they can be just as effective if not more so than your rather expensive intelligence company.
Because of this they can offer protection from rivals within the House, a thing that the Count won't be able to extend to you much longer.

This isn't an easy question but:
>What do you want and what are you prepared to offer?
>>
Resuming for a bit tomorrow then probably wont be on until Monday.

There's some giant freezing rain storm incoming tomorrow so I may get called on to help dig out relatives. We'll see.
>>
>>2472605
Oooh.

Offer: Our shares to be inherited by our heir, with the provision that once we have one we can trade for up to another 5% in their name to he held in escrow until they come of age.

Clearly we would share both terraforming technologies. In exchange we would want say support us setting up our own company to iron out the kinks and make it profitable then trading it to the Harmens . . . For more shares!

That way we aren't just buying a shit ton of shares straight up but actively building up the company and proving ourselves worthy of holding them.

Plus we're pretty good at protecting Troy and vice versa. We also like each other which is a sweet bonus.

I assumed protection from other elements would be a given, but we really could use more socializing with the entrenched nobility. Help with that would be cool.
>>
>>2472605
>What do you want
Valeri
I need to think this one through but I would in all honesty like to keep the Gravity Well Project entirely separate from this dealing. It's banking or storing that type of terraforming if we ever need to use it as a bargaining chip later.

Imagine if they decide to use their Wills to push Troy out of inheriting the Harmen fortune, we'd be destroyed.

Side note, is there any atmospheric starfighter designs you want analysed for aerodynamic efficiency?
>>
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>>2472655
>Side note, is there any atmospheric starfighter designs you want analysed for aerodynamic efficiency?
The aerodynamics on a lot of my fighters suck. They can get away with that thanks to repulsors to create an air stream.

Only two I can think of that might might do okay would be the TF-83-S (Right) and the Z5L. I'll throw in the link for the regular Z5 too.

http://houseanddominion.wikia.com/wiki/Z5_Interceptor
http://houseanddominion.wikia.com/wiki/Z5L_Light_Interceptor

When I updated the Z5 design for H&D I borrowed a number of elements from the Saab JAS 39 Gripen. Which is a really light design, while the Z5 is really not with its 4 engines.
>>
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My Mousetrap has claimed 5 kills.
Clearly Dorn's guidance has proven correct.
>>
>>2472686
The program I use to design Reference wings just crashed when trying to do a Z5, I'll try again in the morning.
>>
>>2472605

>What do you want and what are you prepared to offer?

My mind on things. And these are just the beginning.

>Offer

Use of Gravity Well Generator for assistance in terraforming and moving planets to life supporting positions.

Lowered or at cost Weather Control Tower tech when it is fully studied and implemented.*

Our shares in the Harmen family terraforming company, if we have any heirs during the marriage they would go to the kids of this union.

>Ask for

Assistance in developing Weather Control Towers.*

Connections, for the in into the established nobility so we can get intel we previously couldn't and to add a layer of protection that we will soon lose that we previously had thanks to the Count. This could also prove beneficial for us to learn about other opportunities to strengthen ties and alliances through out the house and other houses. If the count was concerned about us establishing new alliances and maintaining current ones. This would be the best means of doing it. Especially if some of the houses that Harmon family does business with are part of the Run Alliance. Said connections would also help any heirs/ kids we have later on down the line.

Additional shares for us to purchase, up to a limit. Shares to be given to any possible heirs we might have during this union.

>Heirs

When it comes to kids or heirs. I'm of the mind they would receive our stuff upon our death. I'm not really interested in having kids currently and I think that would be something best saved for after the war is over and Sonia has time to settle down. If the Harmen family is really that worried about us not having an heir during this time then they could have a clause be in there that we have an heir some time after the Dominion returns to peace time levels. If we have not already done so by then.


*We have the money to start up our own Weather Control Tower R&D company as well as our own production branch. Having the Harmen families prior knowledge on terraforming would be beneficial in reducing time it would take to figure out the data we got from the Sphere.

I don't fully understand the use of Solar Sails. Though they would be a neat expensive way to cook colonies from space.

Our Station Construction, I was hoping to save that for talks with Ceres. If they ever decided to approach Alex to give him more play over any representative they could send to him. But holding out for an eventuality that would take years seems counter productive right now. So if it comes to push and shove. I wont mind giving access to Station Construction to improve or build orbital infrastructure around Loran, once the Run Alliance is completed. Of course we could just open a branch to deal directly with the Harmen family and get things sorted out so that resources aren't diverted away from the Run Alliance.

>>2472724
Good work Sigismund.
>>
Calling for power outages in my area so we'll see how that goes.

>>2472792
>I don't fully understand the use of Solar Sails. Though they would be a neat expensive way to cook colonies from space.
Solar Shroud / Sun Shades are for planets a bit too close to their sun that are a tad bit too hot as a result. They reduce the incoming solar radiation and if possible also are used for energy collection.

Solar reflector arrays are used around planets that are a bit too far from their star and don't get enough sunlight to keep their temperature up. In setting Mars once made use of these.
>>
>>2472792
>Of course we could just open a branch to deal directly with the Harmen family and get things sorted out so that resources aren't diverted away from the Run Alliance.
The company set up a manufacturing facility in the J-D homeworlds during the late civil war for station components. Part of the reason the Anchorage was deployed there since it could build anything.
The Anchorage was moved back to Rioja to help with construction of the new station(s) there after the civil war.
>>
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Sonia
-HTF shares go to heir / trust
-Grav-well terraforming to be made available
-weather control


Harmen Family
-Will allow sale of more HTF shares to Sonia
-Political connections/ protection
-assistance with weather control development?

Heir would be a Reynard-Harmen.

>>2472655
>Imagine if they decide to use their Wills to push Troy out of inheriting the Harmen fortune, we'd be destroyed.
Stipulation that Troy will have a minimum inheritance?
>>
>>2473680
I can accept this.

Quick check, is Troy THE Heir? Or just a noble of the family?
>>
>>2473680
>Stipulation
Sure

>>2473801
He is AN heir to the Harmen family. They do have others that could just as easily take the title as an inheritor.
>>
>>2473801
A high level heir. He has two younger sisters, though one is now technically older than him.

There are other lines of the Harmen family that have some ownership of the company, even if they dont always get along.
>>
>>2473503

>Solar Sails
I wonder if after suitable testing, if we can find out if moving said worlds that are eithrr to hot or to cold is a viable option/ choice? I know naturist will not be happy, but screw them.
>>
>>2473829
>>2473680

Wait.

> -Will allow sale of more HTF shares to Sonia

Why don't we just buy them in Troy's name if we're worried about his family cutting him out? Make them all go to our heir(s) anyways.
>>
>>2473844
>moving said worlds
Now it might be. It certainly wasn't before.

Also I do wonder what moving worlds will do to natural orbital resonance patterns?

>>2473852
>Why don't we just buy them in Troy's name if we're worried about his family cutting him out?
(Troy does have some of his own money separate from that of his family.)
If you buy it yourself you can still get money and make use of it that way from shareholder dividends?
>>
Also important: Division of property and money in the event of a divorce
>>
>>2473993
What is Troy's opinion on how he wants to handle seperation of funds and property in the event of seperation?
>>
You've never seen Troy nervous before and this question draws the attention of both sides like few others. He has to find a balance that won't cause his parents to immediately disown him or piss you off.

Eventually he suggests the following; In the event of divorce with no heir:
1) Full rights to weather control tech reverts to Sonia
2) Harmen family allowed option to buy back shares of HTF company purchased by Sonia after the marriage.
3) A year long truce of sorts politically where neither side are permitted to attack the other publicly, or make anything but joint statements to the media.

4) Any jointly owned property or business not listed above, or legally worked out separately, would be split between them.

Oh god I'm not good at legal stuff.
>>
>>2473993
With heir - shares still return to the heir.

Without heir - Split whatever increase in wealth we accrue over our time as a couple 50/50.
>>
>>2474191
>>2474187

This is pretty standard, except that we receive our original relative investment back and then split whatever wealth we gathered beyond that as 50/50 to compensate for nebulous things like contacts and emotional support etc.

So if we enter with $100, and Troy enters with $50 for a total of $150, then we both get that relative $100 and $50 back.

If we are worth $300 when we separate, then instead of both of us getting $150, we would get our original $100+$75 and Troy would get $50+$75.

We would need some sort of guarantor for inheritance of an heir though, in which case I say that they still retain the rights to inherit all the shares currently held by both us and Troy, and that they are to retain the Reynard-Harmen name and position in the Harmen family.
>>
>>2474187

You don't have to be good with law stuff. Unless an anon is going to argue semantics or rule of law or what not. Just making it understandable for others is plenty enough. What you've presented is plenty good enough, I doubt we're gonna get a Phoenix Wright in to this quest right now.

This sounds good to me.
>>
>>2474209
>So if we enter with $100, and Troy enters with $50 for a total of $150, then we both get that relative $100 and $50 back.
>If we are worth $300 when we separate, then instead of both of us getting $150, we would get our original $100+$75 and Troy would get $50+$75.
This makes sense.

>We would need some sort of guarantor for inheritance of an heir though, in which case I say that they still retain the rights to inherit all the shares currently held by both us and Troy, and that they are to retain the Reynard-Harmen name and position in the Harmen family.
The Harmen family will agree to this on the condition that some of Sonia's land and holdings on Rioja is likewise guaranteed to go to such an heir.
>>
>>2474209
I like this. It sounds very fair and reasonable.
>>
>>2474209

This works

>>2474263
>The Harmen family will agree to this on the condition that some of Sonia's land and holdings on Rioja is likewise guaranteed to go to such an heir.
Sounds fair to me.
>>
>>2474263
>>2474282
>>2474291

That's basic common law for divorces in the Western world. It's because you're legally one single entity, much like a corporation, once you enter into a marriage contract.
>>
The lawyers on both sides seem satisfied and are ready to sign off. Unless there's any other changes?

Wedding planning.
Keep things fairly small and exclusive? Or a big wedding?
>>
>>2474430
Small. I feel no need to make a statement or the like by spending excessively or anything big and we're not doing this out of any romantic feelings. Neither on his or our side.
>>
>>2474430
Small family and clise friends. And if course a ball.
>>
>>2474430
Small and exclusive ceremony, larger reception, giant-ass ball and a holiday on our planet.

We're not from a noble family, so this is our chance to really peacock and show off what we've achieved and who we can invite.
>>
>>2474430
Small, private, and unpublicised.

Oh god, do we need to buy Troy a wedding gift?
>>
>>2474430
Also we should call up the Terrans and demand that they let Vera participate as the flower girl if she wants.
>>
>>2474430

>People to invite
Immediate family
Close friends
The Count
Emperor Ber'Helum, if Fadila and the Count say it is a good idea.
>>
>>2474552
Don't forget our military buds. I really want to get hammered with Bewari at our wedding.

We might legit salvage a planet while hammered.
>>
>>2474552
Also we should definitely invite representatives from people like the Run Alliance etc. to come to the reception after the service.

Don't forget, Wedding Gifts bitches. We could get some really interesting things.
>>
>>2474492
I think it would be nice/customary for us to get each other some small tokens.
>>
Looking like a fairly small wedding. 100-150 people tops.

>>2474552
>Emperor Ber'Helum, if Fadila and the Count say it is a good idea.
Probably not going to happen but inviting their ambassador would be fine.

>>2474488
>holiday on our planet.
This brings up the next point.
Location: Rioja, Loran or Dreminth?
>>
>>2474640
Dreminth
>>
>>2474640
>Dreminth
>>
>>2474640
>100-150 people tops.
>Small
I was thinking like going to the state house and writing the documents and thats it or like... 10-20 at most but eh. Fine I guess.

>Dreminth
We're here after all.
>>
>>2474640
Rioja for the big dick powerplay.
>>
>>2474728
>10-20 at most

>>2474552
>Immediate family
>Close friends
>>2474583
>Don't forget our military buds.
Things quickly snowball.

While Rioja would obviously favour you as a wedding location you're willing to step back and suggest Dreminth as a more neutral location. Also it means Mom can be present for the wedding since she refuses to leave the planet.
>>
>>2468586
>Important question: did you vote?
Yes, I did. Voted for nope / Chen

>>2474187
We probably want a stipulation that deals with the case that one parent ends up MIA for a decade or so. And if an heir happens, that both families have access to the child.

>>2474640
>Looking like a fairly small wedding.
Have a big but cheap wedding with all the reporters and the usual useless people invited at the same time as the small one. Everybody who's at the actual wedding is played by somebody in holographic camo.


>Location: Rioja, Loran or Dreminth?
Dreminth, simply because of Sonia's mother. Although it would be interesting to see if this would be enough to make her get over her phobia of space travel.
>>
I'll try to post tomorrow but can't promise anything.
Resuming for sure on Monday.
>>
>>2474640
>>2474843

I still feel we should split it into 3 parts. One small actual service with an intimate reception, followed by a big celebratory ball the next night, culminating in a festival on Rioja since we won't have gotten married there.

Because our Mom HAS to be there, so Dreminth is fine.
>>
>>2474728
>>2474843
Small service.

Sonia
Mom, Dad, Ethan, Bekka?, Mike & Tabitha, Alex, Katherine, Linda, Arron?, Rufaro, Valeri, Fadila?

Troy
Parents(2), 2 Sisters, 5 aunts & uncles, 6-8 friends

30 people and that's before any extended family, diplomats, etc that may want to be present.
>>
>>2476705
Don't forget +1's

Winifred as well.
>>
>>2476762
>Winifred as well.
Unfortunately it's too far for her (or Daska) to travel from her holdings at the moment.

>Don't forget +1's
This is how things snowball.

Try for 30 but plan for 50 with the small service? Celebratory ball the next night & festival on Rioja?

Is this okay?
>>
>>2476793
Yes
>>
>>2472724
My kill streak has ended after a 6th. They've now figured out how to disarm the trap.
>>
>>2476705
Imagine if Sonia invited all her weird friends like Svidur, Eldal, or Illya.
>>
>>2477019

Next up, mouse pads? Sticky things with poison on them. Not pet friendly. That or just figure a way to make them activate the trigger easier. Like a different type of bait? Thread is now secretly a 'How to Build a Better Mouse Trap' thread?

>>2476705
I would also say ask Drake if she would like to attend, but I am sure she is to far away to attend. Still we could send out letters to people who cannot make it, informing them that a wedding is taking place. So that they do not have to hear it through the grape vine. Maybe have a recording for those who want a recording of it? Like Sonia's mom most likely.
>>
>>2476705
Avun or Xisoth, if one of them can make it? Do we know anybody from Kavos' family?
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>>2477048
Thinking about it I'd actually like to invite Eldal and Illya.

Eldal wanted practice at socialising right? Illya would be cool to have in full knightly regalia.
>>
Disappointed Eldal wasnt a choice for marriage.

Think about it. He could have been anything or anyone we wanted.
>>
>>2477267
>I would also say ask Drake if she would like to attend, but I am sure she is to far away to attend.
Her territory is on the other side of the same galaxy.

>>2477848
>Avun or Xisoth, if one of them can make it?
You don't want to have every Baron in the House present for this wedding. That would quickly become a security issue.

>Do we know anybody from Kavos' family?
Apparently Maybourne is distantly related.

>>2478137
>Eldal and Illya.
Added.

>>2479507
>Disappointed Eldal wasn't a choice for marriage.
Wasn't even suggested in the write-ins.
>>
>>2479610
>Security issue
Then we could just stick with friends like Alex and Mike and then whoever is in the same galaxy as Dreminth. So long as that does not kick into the territory of security issue?
>>
>>2479610
>Wasn't even suggested in the write-ins.
No idea about the other voters but I assumed you wanted male+human.

>You don't want to have every Baron in the House present for this wedding. That would quickly become a security issue.
Yeah, that makes sense. Let's hold a separate party in the Run once we're back.

>Apparently Maybourne is distantly related.
Let's get Maybourne and Mezan while we're at it. They're both friends and it can't hurt to have a Dro'all and Shallan present on the official press photographs.

>Her territory is on the other side of the same galaxy.
Did the count ever do that tour of all J-D territories he spoke about before Sonia left for the sphere?
>>
>>2472724
>My kill streak has ended after a 6th. They've now figured out how to disarm the trap.
By clogging the trap with their dead?

>>2477048
>implying Sonia has any other kind of friend
>>
>>2480291
Good plan.

We should get Avrun in, maybe?

Get Vera to come and tell everyone she's a visiting AI but imply she's from the AI race? JK that would be a terrible idea that would make the Terran committee in charge of Vera never let us near her again if possible.
>>
>>2480457
>By clogging the trap with their dead?
Yes actually. Or that's how the 7th was killed.

Working on a post it's just not quite ready yet.
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>>2480464
Could we Telepresence the other Barons in? Avrun would be a nice symbol post-civil-war. Make a point that we follow up on our deals and people can trust us to pardon them if they join us.
>>
>>2480468
I suppose so.
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>>2480471
Or could we just handle the security of having other Barons come? We do have, like, a private army with a full intel wing and whatnot.
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>>2480291
>Did the count ever do that tour of all J-D territories he spoke about before Sonia left for the sphere?
I completely forgot about that.

Going to say yes.

In 4036 Count Jerik conducted a series of naval reviews of the fleets of the various Barons while embarked on a tour of House space aboard Forbearance. It was also partially justified as a test of House logistics capability as the Count's fleet would only make use of J-D facilities. A stopover in the newest territories had to be cut short due to concerns of terrorism and potential threats against the Count.

The Count was able to tour Rioja and its facilities for the first time and seemed quite impressed with the amount of progress being made there. Despite some tensions with members of the Run Alliance his visit was well received there.
It also allowed a viewing of the Super Heavy refit yards. They've been kept busy since since the Civil War bringing Dominion Supers up to the new standard. They're no ACS, but they can give them a run for their money.

Another reason for bringing Forbearance was certainly clear in South Reach. The House needed to prove it could deploy assets to protect the worlds there, or to retake them from Barons or Governors gone rogue. Towards that end the fleet conducted exercises at Frostback including a planetary assault.
Visits to Surakeh and Padiş allowed the Count to catch up with Winifred and Daska. He even met with the second elected governor of Surakeh, Lady Gwenaëlle Ainsley, who has largely recovered from her brush with death. His reception among the local nobility was mixed but nobody tried to kill him.

Before departing South Reach the Count conducted meetings with the heads of numerous Houses in the region that had broken away during the Civil War. These Houses being based entirely in South Reach there has been little chance for direct attempts at diplomacy with them. As a result of these meetings non-aggression pacts have been signed with three and tentative alliances with two others. Trade agreements have also been ratified with House Veritas now that they are allied with the new Ruling House.
>>
Alex, Drake and Archivald are all confirmed for attending.
Winifred has declined but requested a recording. She's also approved Bekka leave to get home in time to attend.

Baron Myrish Avun thinks using a holodrone to attend would be a great idea.

There has been a request from Baron Saputo for an invitation. No telling how he found out. Likewise Governor Teth'au Veos has requested an invitation since the wedding is going to be on their planet.
Either their personal intel networks have intercepted word of the upcoming wedding or someone leaked it. This has the potential to quickly spiral out of control.

Do you want to make a more public statement with the Harmen family about the wedding? Specifically that it's going to be a small affair and that more people are invited to the Celebratory Ball?
>>
>>2480547
> There has been a request from Baron Saputo for an invitation. No telling how he found out. Likewise Governor Teth'au Veos has requested an invitation since the wedding is going to be on their planet.

Shit. That's a solid point.

But yeah a public announcement of the wedding being intimate but the ball being big.
>>
>>2480547

>Do you want to make a more public statement with the Harmen family about the wedding? Specifically that it's going to be a small affair and that more people are invited to the Celebratory Ball?

Yes, with the few people attending already, we don't want to make security panic any more then it already like will. So yes, joint statement that there will be a small wedding with limited members, but a larger ball to be held later where more people are invited. After all, it's the ball in which all the fun party stuff happens. Sonia had best be allowed to keep her plasma pistol, unloaded with a single ammo pack on her belt. Or do we keep our paranoia in check and just keep stun pistol?

As for Saputo and Teth'au, sure they can come to the wedding. So long as we don't exceed 200 people. Security can handle watching 200 people, right? We're in the capital of J-D, not Lathaam! Everyone is a friend here, right?
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>>2480589
I think Sonia will be able to get away with a weapon this time.

>So long as we don't exceed 200 people.
The revised wedding size was to invite 30 and hope not to exceed 50.
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>>2480547
>Do you want to make a more public statement with the Harmen family about the wedding?
Yeah, still keep it to the important people only. Send a statement to the council and every Baron, Governor, and Knight Commander Sonia knows. Tell them they're free to inform people they think should know but to keep this relatively private for as long as possible.

>The revised wedding size was to invite 30 and hope not to exceed 50.
We need to invite Knight Dayton.
>>
>>2480593
Honestly 200 seems small for a Viscount.
>>
>>2480598
>We need to invite Knight Dayton.
I was wondering if anyone would remember him.

>>2480647
People did want as small as possible.
>>
>>2480661
Let's not forget Sylvan as well.
>>
>>2480661
People are also quickly exceeding that with invitations.
>>
Despite earlier reactions your parents seem happy enough that you're getting married, they just wish discussing it before hand hadn't gone quite so badly. It is pointed out to them that this is primarily for political reasons, which they're not quite as happy about.

Discussing things with Troy and the Harmen family reps an official announcement is prepared and sent out to the Barons, Governors and Knights each of you know. While it's requested that they not talk to the media, it's barely more than a day before the story is on the news.

As usual the media is tripping over itself to try and get the story out first. Especially those based on Loran.

"According to our sources Troy Harmen is getting married but not to the person everyone thought. If you've been following our coverage you'll know that Lady Elissa of House Phobos has been on Loran since the holidays. Speculation was that she and Troy Harmen might be married to strengthen ties to her House.
We don't know if that was a misdirection attempt or if there was a change in plans. Right now it looks as though the Harmen heir might very well be getting married to Sonia Reynard. Some of you may be asking, who is that exactly? Well she currently holds the title of Viscount of Rioja, the little backwater world that's sprung up from just about nothing into one of the House's key trade hubs.
We'll just go over some figures here, she's owns more land on Rioja than anyone else, nearly 50% in fact. Her personal wealth was enough to fund most of the development costs of the planet and kick started the economy there. We also know that she helped ensure elections for planetary Governor took place on Surakeh in South Reach, but refused to allow the same on her own planet.

Her war record is longer than we have time to cover but she seems to know how to fight, and how to make money."

The channel cuts back to one of the other reporters.
"Thanks for that Talitha. We have some more information just in that a few of our experts have dug up. It seems Viscount Reynard was arrested years ago, purportedly on treason charges. Now we don't know what those entailed but they were apparently dropped. It now seems those charges may have been falsely leveled against her as a result of political maneuvering.
Stay tuned, we'll have more for you after the break."
>>
Invitation levels keep rising. With that quickly becoming apparent plans are adjustted again to take into account as many as 100 people being present.

After inviting Dayton he warns you not to invite Sylvan as he'll simply be a menace to events.
"Invite him to the Ball if you have to but not the wedding."

You recall that Dayton and Sylvan have had a rivalry going since early in their career. Maybe it would be best to only invite one of them?

[ ] Dayton, you old teacher
[ ] Sylvan, your old CO and master of sneak attack
[ ] Both. Make them behave
>>
>>2480706
>[ ] Dayton, you old teacher
>>
>>2480706
>[ ] Both. Make them behave
>>
>>2480706
Have Troy invite Sylvan and then have them fight for the amusement of the bridge and groom. See if some shop for bored nobles has a Thunderdome available for rent.
>>
>>2480706
Still taking votes on this.

The issue of attire has come up and needs to be addressed as soon as possible before events.

[ ] Dress uniform
[ ] Wedding gown
>>
>>2480683

Ah, the media. Is it wrong to want to strangle all the gossiping idiots? Seems they forgot the nice little tid bit where we acted as military advisor for J-D to B-H. And that we held off a major push by Nassidium, which would have come right for the core worlds. And that we helped bring a swift conclusion to the fight between J-D and Erid worlds. And that our being arrested on treason was from people who wanted to attempt a coupe. Those same people, save for a few, like Foxx are now six feet under, hopefully.

Rioja may seem like a 'backwater' but it's a backwater, for now. But give it a few years it'll be the biggest trade hub in the entire Run. And we'll have access to trade taxes and tariffs and what not.

>>2480706
>Dayton v Sylvan
Give them both explicit details. If either of them misbehaves security has permission to stun them and put them on their asses.

I know Dayton isn't likely to go looking for trouble. But Sylvan might and if they fight, that might open a whole bag of worms where other nobles want to argue at the ball as well. We're tying to build bridges here, not remind people of rivalries.

If we invite them both, give them each a single security member to divert them away from each other as much as possible. And to subtly remind them to keep their rivalry in check or its stun baton time.

Optional note from Sonia to Dayton & Sylvan:

I am inviting both of you. You have both been important people to my career and have been good friends. However, everyone knows of your rivalry. There is no need to act on it here. This is as much a wedding as it is building bridges between the new and the old. The last thing anyone needs is to be reminded of rivalries during the ceremony.

So I will be assigning you both a security detail. Who have permission to stun you with the latest and most powerful stun batons. And put you on your ass if you decide to be an ass. You are both adults so act like it.
>>
>>2480735

I don't suppose we can do a mix of military wedding dress? Or a wedding dress with the latest protection woven into it and a hidden holster for a pistol.
>>
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>>2480739
Closest I can think of would be to combine it with a sash?
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>>2480735
I would expect the military to come to grips with women serving and offering a special military style wedding gown instead of just lazily redesigned uniform. Also, the trail would finally allow us to show off all those medals and other decorations for once.
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>>2480735
>>2480743

That works

>>2480744
>Mile long medal train incoming.
>>
>>2480735
>[ ] Wedding gown
>>
>>2480683
>Some of you may be asking, who is that exactly?
Mother-
>backwater world that's sprung up from just about nothing into one of the House's key trade hubs
>she seems to know how to fight, and how to make money."
Well okay then.

>>2480706
[ ] Both. Make them behave
Don't make us break out Psyco Sonia from her long rest

>>2480735
[ ] Dress uniform
>>
>>2480744
If you wanted to draw something along the lines of what you'd like so I have a rough idea that would be cool.

I found this which seems to have a bunch of different styles some of which might be combined.
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>>2480786
I like Middle Right
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>>2480786
>suggest wedding gown
>receive somewhat fancy bdsm outfits
Row 1 colum 4 leg part
R 2 c 5 upper body
Warrel fur collar?

I'm on mobile so drawing anything is not really possible right now.
>>
>>2480871
Unfortunately it's not an easy thing to find examples of.

>I'm on mobile so drawing anything is not really possible right now.
Sorry to hear that.
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>>2480735
>[ ] Wedding gown
>>
>>2480706
> [ ] Both. Make them behave

Ask them if they really want to see what happens if we have to become a Bridezilla. Remind them that we *technically* never committed any war crimes, but they could be our first.
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>>2480786
They're a bit on the slutty side though.
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>>2480876
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>>2480897
I certainly didn't encounter that one in my google searches. With women's dress uniforms I'm mostly getting star trek stuff.
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>>2480900
Honestly when I first saw it, I thought it was funny but goddamn if that model isn't selling it.
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>>2480908
I like that one.
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>>2480786
Here's an attempt at a mashup of bits from a few.
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>>2480900
More of a uniform look.

Try searching using the word "Couture" and you'll end up with a lot more art fashion pieces instead of things seriously meant to be worn.
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>>2480915
>Try searching using the word "Couture"
My google fu is weak.

No wait, I started finding some things.
>>
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>>2480925
Then there's always the 40k option. Pimp your shit so hard it doesn't matter.
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>>2480925
Just knock off the big ][ on the chest.
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>>2480925
The Inquisition is the most pimped.
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>>2480925
>>2480925
With enough pimping, we could wear both our plasma pistol AND our power armour!
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>>2480925
Down that path lies madness though.
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>>2480925
Carmen Dell’Orefice, the oldest working model in the world at 85
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>Sonia in a dress
Ahahahahahaha... oh wait, you're serious. Oh god, it's gonna be hilarious. Sonia is very likely going to be one of the fittest people in the room. That's the only pic on gelbooru for muscular_female+wedding_dress.

>>2480547
Can we get somebody from the Ruling House's Royal Guard as an honour guard?
>>
>>2480964

Ears aside, that is good a good look. Now to cut off both our arms and replace with cybernetic arms. And we will match it almost perfectly. If that really is Sonia, she looks like she would break so many people. I would understand why people are afraid of her.
>>
>>2480900
TOS movie uniforms are still best.

>>2480706
>Invitation levels keep rising.
We need to invite old man Petras. If we can trust him to watch over Sonia's private property and commando bunker, we must invite him to the wedding. He's as close to an Alfred Sonia has at the moment.

>>2480980
It's a little to revealing for a wedding dress in my opinion, I just chuckled at the thought how Sonia probably has wider shoulders than Troy.
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>>2480964
>>2481008
>It's a little to revealing for a wedding dress in my opinion

Was going to say we could count it as a shoulder-less version of A.

Additions to this list?
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>>2481025
I vote for F.
>>
>>2481025
>G
>>
>>2481025

I wanna say shoulder-less A, for the scandelousness at the party. But G for the formal wedding, and because we are Viscount we are filthy fucking rich we can afford two god damn it.
>>
>>2481025
>>2481046
I'll switch to G then.
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>>2481025
I still like C best.
>>
>>2481025
What do we think about having it in a giant sharkquarium?

Or like. On a private island. Surrounded by sharks.
>>
>>2481111
>What do we think about having it in a giant sharkquarium?
Your mother would kill you.

>On a private island.
That sounds more possible.
The Harmen family might argue the venue somewhat but for a small wedding requiring high security it just might work.

>Surrounded by sharks.
Not on Dreminth.
>>
>>2481025
E
>>
>>2480964
>Sonia is very likely going to be one of the fittest people in the room.
Top 10 to be certain.

>>2480908
You rarely have time to bother with fancy dresses aside from one or two over the years. Political marriage or not this seems like the time to go all out, so you're picking a dress that stands out.

Wavy patterns with shimmering jewels ensure it's an eye catcher. It's also one you'll need help from the staff getting in and out of without making a mess of things. That was probably partly the idea. If you can afford this thing, you can afford to hire on servants to help with it.

Actually getting it fitted does take awhile. Fortunately you're hardly the first person they've had to deal with that has a bit of extra muscle. You make sure to get plenty of practice moving around in it without getting caught on the edges.
The last modification includes a lengthy train. Not too long, or you'll never fit it in the limo. Apparently that's been a problem for some people.

Nearly a day is spent between fitting and getting used to it. It may be a good idea to try out a simulation in the holobooth on your own time.

Mom is nearly speechless at your choice of dress.
"You don't like it?"
"No! No it's beautiful! I just think I'm going to faint."

After getting mom to sit down the scans you've taken are hidden away. You'd like the dress to remain a surprise for most people on the wedding day. The only question that remains is if to add the sash with your highest awards.

Another pressing item is that you need to make a visit to the Emperor with that gift from the Caretakers and your gravity data. There's time enough to make the trip now before the wedding since Bekka is still a week or two away. Or visit after.

1) Sash
>Y/N?

2) Visit the Emperor
2A) After wedding
2B) Before wedding
>>
>>2481262
Y
2b

It's probably a good idea to keep Sonia busy with other stuff.
>>
>>2481262
> Y

> 2B
>>
>>2481262

>Sash
YES

>Emperor
If the ambassador is there, this would be the perfect opportunity to inform them that we have a gift to present the Emperor from the Caretakers of the sphere and an item of our own from our latest trip and that it would be best to have the Royal Guard ready ahead of time. For the gift from the Caretakers.
>>
>>2481262
>2A) After wedding

forgot to vote
>>
>>2481262
>2B) Before wedding
>>
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You have your sash and the appropriate medals sent to be added to the dress then make preparations to head to the capital.

Step one is calling ahead to the Royal Guard so that necessary preparations can be made. You'll probably be stuck having an audience with the Emperor at an odd time of day. The Guard are predictably not at all pleased that you don't know what's in the package but they're glad that you contacted them now.

Eldal who has apparently arrived is invited along as is and Illya. Troy won't be able to go along right now due to wedding issues and having to square away certain things with the family. Apparently he considers them serious enough that if they're not dealt with now the wedding might need to be delayed.
Your offer to help but he assures you it would be best if you didn't. Probably to do with inter family politics with his cousins.

Readying your fastest ships, the Excaliburs and LRBS II's, you set off for the capital of the Dominion. The trip is shorter than you expected. While you've been gone the new Ruling House has worked with the navigators guild to add numerous high speed FTL lanes along with appropriate stations and nav buoys. The system is still incomplete but it has sped up and simplified a number of trade routes linking directly to the capital.

It seems the Emperor wants to be able to send or receive diplomats and ambassadors directly to the leadership of the various Houses as quickly as possible. It may also be helping with the communications infrastructure.

Orbital space around the capital is quite different from the mess it was when you last saw it before the Sphere expedition. The big orbital platform that once sat above the old Ber'helum capital has been moved here. That's bound to make security on the station much easier since they built it themselves rather than relying on second hand infrastructure.

Most of the other geostat stations have been rebuilt, though some still look rather incomplete. Rather conspicuously so in the case of one. With the exception of the rebuilt skeleton the main outer hull still looks half eaten. Perhaps it's being left as a warning and reminder?

"Maybe resources are just needed elsewhere?" Eldal hopefully suggests.

The damage doesn't seem to be interfering with the docking operations of the outer arms. Maybe he's right, it could just be a low priority.
>>
Being the capital docking space is on an as needed basis. Only your flagship is permitted to dock, with the escorts being routed to a holding orbit.

Regular flights to the surface in luxury shuttles make for little in the way of delays in the descent from orbit. Illya takes a window seat so that he can get a good view, even though it's unnecessary with walls of the cabin being coated in image displays of the exterior.

Evidence of the battle that took place here still exists but has for the most part been built over. Buildings have been replaced or repaired and gardens that had once been burned to the ground are slowly filling in. There are still a few signs if you know where to look.

"Right there." you point. "I was right there when that corvette fired its phase cannons."

Eldal is clearly disturbed. "I wish I'd been here to help, but at the same time I really dont want to ever see what that was like."
"It was insane inside and outside."

After landing you're informed the time of your appointment with the Emperor and how far in advance it would be a good time to arrive. Eight hours gives everyone a chance to get some rest and freshen up.

Arriving on time in full dress uniform your party is quickly shown in, being moved not quite to the front of the line. The interior of the Palace has been changed a bit. Not extensively but enough to tell this is clearly a different dynasty.

When you're shown in Emperor Ber'helum is clearly overjoyed to see you alive.

"Viscount Reynard! I was deeply concerned for your survival. I had to make it very clear to the Alliance that I didn't find their excuses about you being trapped to be satisfactory. Especially when they said there wasn't anything they could do about it. I take it you proved them wrong?"

Bowing to the Emperor you explain that they were at least partly right.
"We had to get ourselves out of it."

"Clearly Viscount you've continued to follow the axiom that if you want something done right do it yourself."
Indeed.
>>
Rolled 22 (1d100)

>>2481559
We should send a courtesy invitation to our wedding his way. He's probably too busy to attend but it would be polite. We could at least ask his blessing while we're here.
>>
>>2481559
>Emperor Ber'helum is clearly overjoyed to see you alive.
>Viscount Reynard! I was deeply concerned for your survival.
I'm so glad we discussed the Gravity well idea with him at that ball all those years ago.
>>
>>2481574
The Count and Fadila said it would be best to have his ambassador come in his stead.

>>2481559
I forget did we ever decide what we wanted to do with the land on the capital. If the Emperor decided to give it to us in repayment for the gravity lens? Or is that under the 'to be discussed in further detail with count and council' after we get it?
>>
>>2481574

Of course this is not to say we should not tell him about it. Just that maybe when we're not on a schedule let him now about it and see if he wants a recording or not from his ambassador if he has one sent.

Sonia quietly suggest to the Emperor that he sneaks out under a disguise and travels to the wedding. For socializing and escaping courtroom trappings for a day. This would also be another scandalous thing to have happen. Make all the old nobles freak out to learn the Emperor was among them and none of them noticed or knew about his visit.
>>
>>2481559
>I had to make it very clear
Did the Emperor personally inquire about our welfare? That's a real honor.
>>
Pointing out that anything said about the expedition should be treated as classified information you give an abbreviated account of your exploits on the sphere.

"Mind controlled traitors is little surprise. My advisors have warned of this possibility for years once the extent of Neeran capabilities became known. Something I'm not certain House Nasidum considered when they began employing former POW's in their R&D efforts."

The Emperor is worried by the implications of the Sphere's wormhole gates and other technology falling into the wrong hands. Obviously he agrees there will have to be a treaty signed with the Alliance regading it. In the short term Houses will be banned from sending independent expeditions to the sphere. Anyone trying to go there will have to operate under Alliance oversight.
He'll make sure the same restrictions apply to the other Factions. Or else.

With that out of the way you present gifts collected during the expedition as well as return the one shield borrowed from the Royal Guard. The Guard are certainly glad to have the shield back.

Next up the gift from the Caretakers. The Emperor has been warned by his advisors to take more precautions but dismisses the threat as minimal.
"If they want me dead there are more expedient methods."
Just in case though medics are standing by with stasis fields rather than remaining hidden as they were when you first entered.

Opening the case the Emperor glances at the contents for a few seconds then closes it again.
"These Caretakers are clearly not without a sense of humor."
Handing the case off to an aid he orders it taken to the vaults and to have the science minister meet him there later.
"Thank you for delivering this Sonia Reynard. I suspect that is not the last gift you have."

It's not.
"This is gravitational focusing data. With it it should be possible to further upgrade the gravity well generators."
You hand it off to one of the guards.

"If that data is what you claim it to be you've done a great service for the Dominion. What would you ask in return?"
>>
>>2481585
>did we ever decide what we wanted to do with the land on the capital.
I don't think so? I knew I forgot to add something to that survey.

>Or is that under the 'to be discussed in further detail with count and council' after we get it?
Probably would be a good idea.
>>
>>2481643

>"If that data is what you claim it to be you've done a great service for the Dominion. What would you ask in return?"

"I ask for land upon the Capital. After it has been verified that the info contained therein is in fact gravitational focusing data." Or any variation of saying we want land on capital and are willing to wait until the B'H can verify that it is indeed what we claim it to be. Or we could just ask for the system with the twin worlds that just need to be Terraformed to be habitable. Have a Rioja 2.0 Electric boogaloo, double the start up double the money sink extra hard mode. But with two planets and future profits to launch us into the highest ranks of political notice ability with J-D.
>>
>>2481643
>What would you ask in return?
What did the poll end up getting?

Wildcard vote for House Reynard. Is it worth stressing the Gravitational Lensing system is meant to jam wormholes as well?
>>
>>2481819
Land on the capital. Sorry, writing atm.
>>
>>2481856
I say I'm writing but really I'm stuck.

"Provided it turns out to have the data that we hope? I would ask for land upon the Capital."

"A bold request, but I would expect nothing less from you. It may take time to fulfill but your request will be honored. Thank you."

Out of courtesy you extend an invitation to the Emperor or a representative for your upcoming wedding.
"To who and what House?"

"Troy Harmen, also of Jerik-Dremine." you explain.

"Marrying within your own House? I suppose you would be seen as something of a maverick by your peers. Maintaining strong ties to ones own House is important. No point in exhausting yourself fighting enemies at home when there are others abroad to worry about.
I wish you luck but will have to defer the invitation to the local ambassador."

Was there anything else you wanted to ask the Emperor?
>>
>>2481887
>Was there anything else you wanted to ask the Emperor?
How has he found ruling the Dominion? Rewarding? Tiring? A nightmare?

Where does he hope to take them Dominion in the next years? Plans for after the Neeran are dealt with?
Is he going to be backing the movement to oust the Isolationists from Republic space?
>>
>>2481887

Nothing instantly springs to mind, other then I hope he continues to have a long and stable ruler ship. Actually never mind, a thought, how has his initiative to crack down on slavers and the slave trade within the Dominion? I don't intend to volunteer for it, but just curious if that has gotten off the ground or not and if we can support it in anyway?
>>
>>2481887
> Ask the Emperor how the Kythera went, and about our personal connection with the terran AI and if it would be cool if she attended the wedding.
>>
>>2481901
>How has he found ruling the Dominion? Rewarding? Tiring? A nightmare?
"All of the above."

>Where does he hope to take them Dominion in the next years?
"Continue the never ending task of modernizing the military and industry. Build our forces to levels that can sustain or improve the current pace of advance. Focus the attentions of the Houses on external threats and enemies.
Show the people that we can win and that we are not a second rate Faction."

>Plans for after the Neeran are dealt with?
"The Alliance hopes they'll be able to wrest control of several species governments away from the Neeran Empire once in their space. Even if they're successful in half of all cases that will mean a tremendous area of space to occupy. I hope to gain some small pockets of territory for the Dominion, even if it's only temporary.
We have lost entire worlds. Not as many as the Shallans or the Terrans, but we have lost worlds all the same. Restitution is called for."

>Is he going to be backing the movement to oust the Isolationists from Republic space?
"Only if it's absolutely necessary. I hope it will not come to that. We may outwardly lend political support but backing it up is not a thing I would enjoy doing."
>>
>>2481907
>how has his initiative to crack down on slavers and the slave trade within the Dominion? I don't intend to volunteer for it, but just curious if that has gotten off the ground or not and if we can support it in anyway?
"As with anything worth doing, difficult. We're not meddling in the affairs of Houses but we are limiting how easily slaves can bet traded, and giving others the means to crack down on vessels within their territory.
This has resulted in lawsuits over supposedly unprovoked boardings but those always have a tendency to happen."

>>2481918
>Ask the Emperor how the Kythera went
"That was a complicated and long drawn out business. We lost many good people, too many, but their sacrifice was not in vain. Diplomacy at the end of a gun did finally seem to get the message across to them. We'll kill them if we have to but we'd rather not."

That's a relief.

The Emperor signals a nearby intelligence attaché. "Provide the Viscount with files pertinent to the early Kythera attacks.
I believe you may find it interesting."

"Thank you."

>about our personal connection with the terran AI and if it would be cool if she attended the wedding.
"No, the fighting with the Kythera is far too fresh in the minds of the populace. We won't be allowing Terran AI's within our borders for some time.
That does not mean we're not invested in learning more about them. We've providing experts in the relevant fields to the Alliance. Hopefully we can learn more of the dangers and opportunities they can provide without endangering our citizens."

>I hope he continues to have a long and stable ruler ship.
The Emperor thanks you for this and wish you success in your endeavours and again congratulations with the upcoming wedding.

If there is nothing else?
>>
>>2481983

I am good, on to the wedding and the ball! Lets see who gets shit faced drunk first. And then use what they say and do as black mail later on.
>>
The data provided by RH intel indicates that the Kythera were engaged in several stages of intelligence gathering within Faction space. The earliest of these began not long after the invasion started with Kythera agents trying to trace their fleet movements.

After exploring they quickly began looking at ways to hinder the Neeran invasion should it expand deeper into Faction space.
One part of this involved experimenting on people considered expendable or unstable elements. They wanted to see if their process of systematically replacing parts of peoples bodies with their nanotech had any undesirable side effects. Unfortunately it did. Earlier versions had a tendency to amplify certain personality traits. Ones most Faction species would considered negative.

Given their unstable natures it was decided that these test subjects needed to be euthanized, however once integrated that wasn't quite so easy. Since a number of the test subjects were mercenaries they were instead used in a future experiments to test the combat effectiveness in a number of minor attacks. These were supposed to be carried out in backwater locations nobody cared about.

A few of the mercs, having been quite mad even before their upgrade, went a little off script and attacked far more visible targets. The ones that attacked Rioja are believed to have been lead by Marson Edect who had assumed an alternate identity. Switching to nanites didn't seem like such a big risk to him after a full body transplant.

After these incidents the Kythera realise their cover had largely been blown and pulled out of the region aside from background intelligence gathering.

Either during their earlier exploration attempts, or while looking for candidates for experimentation, the Kythera lost a number of their scouts. One of these apparently stumbled on an Aries black project site and was captured. It seems Aries R&D division didn't waste a lot of time and eventually made use of the AI tech to rapidly advance their own technological development.

It should be noted that the Aries Drone starfighters used earlier in the war were developed without the assistance of the Kythera AI. They're not complete slouches.
>>
>>2482070
Can we open a lawsuit for the damage caused to Rioja?
>>
>>2482070
>They're not complete slouches.

No, but they are still complete ass holes and I'm not changing my stance on that, unless they suddenly find the pockets deep enough to repay the Dominion for every life and ship from that civil war that they helped create.
>>
>>2481983
I wonder if we could have sort of a dumbed down tele-presence that Vera could absorb afterwards as her "attending".

Technically it wouldn't be AI until it was integrated with Vera, after all.
>>
>>2482116
>Can we open a lawsuit for the damage caused to Rioja?
Against the Kythera?
The Alliance only barely has relations with them. You could probably register a lawsuit I suppose requesting Monetary compensation for damages in the event that economic relations are ever established.
>>
>>2482125
Best you could officially do is a live broadcast.

I have work tomorrow. We'll be resuming on Wednesday with the wedding.
>>
>>2482133

I'm sure we would only be part of a long list of people looking for reparations if such a thing happened. So eh, why not. File us in with everyone else from the Dominion who had to fight their abominations during the Civil War and before it when their 'experiments' went rouge.
>>
>>2482141
>who had to fight their abominations during the Civil War
They'll claim that the fighting in the capital was entirely the fault of Aries, House Che'len and the House Kharbos dissidents.

>and before it when their 'experiments' went rouge.
That though is totally their fault.
>>
>>2482153
What about the modified people who were captured during the fighting around the capital?
What was up with the Aries mess and the informant who claimed to be from GE?
How has House Aries been working out for the Dominion?
>>
>>2482393
>What about the modified people who were captured during the fighting around the capital?
Aries had been looking at the technology. Mostly just the personal nanite cloud anchors. It was abandoned when they were forced to evacuate a number of facilities early in the civil war.

In order to gain access to the data stored in the black box systems a number of these were connected to communications arrays to download them to sites in allied space. You and Cristina Pozzi had techs check the black boxes before connecting them to coms, but at the time they found no signs of malicious software.

You weren't the only ones reconnecting old Aries facilities. The Ruling House, Che'len and Kharbos were doing the same. At some point enough fragments of the captured Kythera AI were able to network themselves and regain a measure of its previous capability. It them made a deal with elements of House Kharbos that wanted a return to power within the Dominion at any cost.

Mostly but not completely restored, it was able to dredge up information on how to create the nightmares.

>What was up with the Aries mess and the informant who claimed to be from GE?
The supposed GE informant is believed to have been a Kythera fragment that had escaped from Aries or was unintentionally let loose. GE or some other party (such as the Houses) may have been responsible, attempting to sabotage their rival.

>How has House Aries been working out for the Dominion?
Quite well. They're fulfilling the terms of the treaties signed with the Ruling House. Advanced tech has been broken down to the basics and disseminated among the Houses. This has raised the Dominion's overall tech level.

They've gathered substantial amounts of legal evidence to be used against Aries executives. With their help it's been possible for mercenaries or special forces to arrest or capture a number of these people. Their extradition hasn't exactly been carried out legally. The Terrans have complained about the Dominion's use of kidnapping to illegally remove these people from their space.

A few have been legally extradited but the Terrans have now put a stop to this due to the kidnapping attempts on others.

Those executives and researches still working for Aries deemed vital to the war effort now have around the clock protection or have been placed under house arrest. This has made things more difficult for the war criminal hunters as they would rather not go toe to toe with Terran special forces.
>>
>>2482819
>Mostly but not completely restored, it was able to dredge up information on how to create the nightmares.
I mostly meant those mode from Dominion personnel we captured. Is there anything that can be done to help them? Or did they get the later variants that leave the personality untouched?
>>
>LoGH Remake Personal Opinion

Still looks pretty, but if you've watched the original you can tell they've cut out small parts of the show. For example, the fighter battle in the start or kid-Reinhard and kid-Kircheis jumping into a fountain or crashing a noble's party.

I'm probably just weird, but new Oberstein doesn't look to bad. He still gives off the feeling of being creepy without being to off putting. If anything he just looks like a guy who spends his time doing secret spy stuff.
>>
>>2482819
Do we have any remaining Kythera bits we could trade back to them?
>>
>>2480876
>Sorry to hear that.
I had to send in my laptop because half the keyboard suddenly stopped working. At least it was still covered under warranty.

>>2482140
>wedding covered on Wednesday
We must invite Svidur. What's a wedding without a 3m tall wizard?
>>
>>2483547
+1 lizard wizard
>>
>>2483690
Lumpy wizard
>>
Posting in between doing things.

>>2482853
To your knowledge all of the ones that were full on nightmares were shot on sight. That's certainly what you did during the fighting.
If any from the capital did survive or were captured you were never informed or it's been classified.

A few that left with the Kythera fleet did survive and are staying with them.

>>2482925
The Ruling House and Alliance are looking at possibly returning any Kythera AI fragments they find. The rest of their technology that's been captured will be held onto.

>>2483547
>We must invite Svidur.
Will need confirmation on inviting the telepath currently living in the body of an enemy combatant.
>>
>>2484060
>svidur invite

Sorry space wizard not this time, can send him a recording.
>>
>>2484060
>Will need confirmation on inviting the telepath currently living in the body of an enemy combatant.
I was honestly expecting any invite for him to be denied due to the various dangers. Will they let him out?
>>
>>2483547
+1 Neeran invite to scan for mind shenanigans.
>>
>>2484175
>Will they let him out?
Yes, though an officer would be assigned to keep tabs on him.

>I was honestly expecting any invite for him to be denied due to the various dangers.
The Harmen family might object due to those dangers yes.
>>
>>2484986

>Svidur issues
Lets be smart about this and send him an apology letter explaining why we didn't invite him as well as a recording of the wedding after the wedding is done.
>>
>>2485006
This is the space wizard we are talking about.
We must have him at the wedding
>>
>>2485078

And we will be having people there who think we are trying to usurp the House leadership. As stupid as that plan is. Actually using a Neeran Commando/ Inflitrator to assassinate our enemies as an excuse to take control of the house is a great idea.

It would stick out that we've invited what most of them would consider a security liability. And an enemy POW, since they don't understand Neeran wizardry. These are probably also people who besides a handful of them, know what a Neeran looks like and is actually capable of. The others just know what the media and their inner circles tell them about Neeran.

Having Svidur here is asking for trouble.
>>
Having some trouble with windows update.
>>
>>2485702
Win 10? What is it doing? My windows update just stopped working one day and I have to manually install all my updates.
>>
>>2485776
Not doping it's job. The updates always get stuck, only partially install, or dont work.

Do you use the update catalog to manually download them?
>>
>>2485109
Fair point but I belive its easy enough to get around
This is our space wizard tho
It wouldn't feel right not having him there
>>
>>2485854

tl;dr: Instead of inviting him to the wedding invite him to Rioja after the wedding and have story time about the sphere and what we learned of its 'defense system' he told us about and the other sphere builder facility we plan on going to soon.
Not inviting the guy who gave us the Sphere tech all those years ago, which provided a big help in getting us promoted to where were are today. Does seem wrong.

But just because we do not invite him to the wedding. Does not mean we can not invite him to come visit us at Rioja, for story time with Sonia. So we can tell him about our latest trip to the Sphere. Letting him know about the warm welcome we recieved from the Control Center Caretakers and how they were only to happy to tell us that the defense system he told us about. Was what we believed it to be instead of correcting our mistake. That we had to go just about all the way to the activation controls themselves to learn that the Defense System was not what he or us or even the Empire Neeran thought it was. That if we had activated it we would be considered MIA for a lot longer then just three years and much closer to an eternity. After that story we could tell him we found the location of another Sphere Builder facility. That it is deep in Empire Neeran space and we intend to go looking into it after we get a few things done here.

Maybe also hint that he is welcome to come along too, if he can lose his handlers.

Also keep in mind Svidur is the Old Wise Space Wizard and not a short lived Human. He has likely dealt with enough Humans and enough nobles from the Dominion to know that we do not intend any slight to or against him, by not inviting him to an event filled with more Dominion nobles. And telling him our story and about the other facility would likely banish any idea he may have had that we don't trust him.
>>
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Still alive. Wishing my OS wasnt.

>Svidur
>invite him to Rioja after the wedding
That seems like a decent compromise. Any support?
>>
>>2485987
yes
>>
>>2485987

yes
>>
>>2485987
Ye
>>
>>2485987
Sounds fair.
>>
Departing from the capital you return to Dreminth straight away. On arrival you update the Count on how things went with the Emperor. He only concern is if the gravity well data only proves to be moderately helpful you might not get as much land as hoped. You don't expect the Emperor to screw you over but all the same you hope that doesn't happen.

The days leading up the the wedding are a hectic scramble despite having most of it worked out. The Harmen family seems to have liked the idea to have the wedding on a remote island on the planet. On a world like Dreminth "remote" is relative but much of an island resort is able to be reserved. An adequate venue is located and the local government convinced to ensure that part of the island will be restricted on the wedding day.

The Harmen family dispatch 1500 of their family guard ahead of time to begin work on security. Your own force arriving from Rioja aboard the Outer Heaven join them two days later. You're a little worried that the respective commands might clash especially with your counterparts having a two day head start. Fortunately nothing comes of it.

Svidur has been invited to Rioja after the wedding. The last thing you need is several people screaming that the planet is under attack by the Neeran right in the middle of the reception. That wouldn't be good for anyone.

Heading out to the island ahead of time you take a good look around so that you're familiar with the area. The Harmen's have booked a grand looking stone cathedral. A few local masons are making last minute repairs to help revitalize the place.

"I guess we'll be ready if there are a few more guests than we'd hoped for." you tell Rufaro.
>>
Anyone want to link some suggestions for wedding music?
>>
>>2486088

My google/ youtube search capabilities are limited.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBBL-t7CKbU -Incredible wedding entrance music
>>
Now my system is finally up to date. Had to do an in-place upgrade.
>>
Despite some pre-wedding jitters everything is ready before the big day. Bekka arrives as scheduled and Mom makes sure she doesn't make a fool of herself.

Most of the guests for the actual wedding arrive on the island the night before. The exceptions are Barons Archivald and Palaiologos who are set to arrive in the pre-dawn hours. Until then they remain on their ships in orbit citing last minute security concerns. Katherine Drake arrives early but takes a room under the name of one of her bodyguards.

At first light you're helped into the wedding dress by mom and a few maids. Your mother seems more excited about all of this than you are.
"Our wedding was really small. Only a few people and some friends of your father's as witnesses. I always wanted a big wedding but that was never going to happen.
Eee! I can't believe you're getting married!"

You have to hold her at arms length to keep her from hugging you and potentially making a mess of your dress.
"Hugs after the service mom! I promise."

With everything ready you and your father head to the waiting repulsor limo taking you to the cathedral. Mom arrives ahead of you in another car with your siblings. According to an update a few of the last minute arrivals are just entering now so the limo takes a slightly longer route.

When the limo stop dad steps out first to help you out while the a pair of maids assist with the train of your dress. Clear and sunny skies greet you. Knowing the Harmen family you wouldn't put it past them to have arranged for favorable weather ahead of time.

Looking around the security presence is even heavier than you thought it would be. In the distance you spot aircraft and camera drones that must be hanging outside of the no fly zone. A few professional photographers hired for the event are in position where they're out of the way.

Hearing the music start up that's the signal that everyone is ready and waiting.

"Okay let's do this." you whisper.
"You've said that a few times Sonia." Dad jokes.
Opening your mouth to reply you think better of it and instead take your father's arm and put on a smile for the cameras.

>>2486114
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBBL-t7CKbU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GxtVBUfotdU
>>
Entering the Cathedral all of the guests stand.

Looking at those assembled you spot Troy's mother shooting glances at Drake but otherwise trying to look calm and serene. You'll have to ask what's going on there later. Included among the Harmen family's guests is none other than Count Jerik himself along with his wife.

There are more people than had been hoped for in a best case scenario but it looks like you're still well below 60.

Troy is at the front waiting for you, decked out in full dress uniform. Wait, no that's not a normal dress uniform. This one has twice the shine of the usual ones, the normally green material looking as though it were coated in emeralds. He's smiling, looking perhaps a tiny bit nervous but it would be difficult for most to tell.

Once the train of your dress is through the guards close the doors, allowing the light coming in through the stained glass windows to be that much more prominent.

Arriving at the front of the aisle everyone turns to the official waiting for you.
"Who presents this woman and this man to be married to each other?"

Your parents and Troy's answer in unison. "We do."

You're deathly worried Bekka or someone else will ruin this with an immature comment but thankfully they remain quiet. The official continues on speaking, through what seems like a drawn out review of the marriage contract. Really you suppose that's what it is.
The vows the two of you agreed on likewise recognize that this is politics, the specter of a possible divorce in the distant future for any number of reasons is there.

Despite this you give your "I do" just after Troy.

"If there is anyone who would object to this union on legal grounds speak now."

You catch a faint noise of something hitting the doors of the cathedral. Quiet enough that you hope most people would have missed it. Glancing over your shoulder it looks like the guards are still standing there. No signs of them being breached.

"As there are no objections? Then by the power vested in me, and as witnessed by friends and family, I now pronounce you husband and wife!
You may kiss the bride."

The assembled guests burst into applause before the two of you can either turn to each other.

[ ] Keep it short and sweet
[ ] Reluctant
[ ] You are kissing him, not the other way around
>>
>>2486560
>[x] Keep it short and sweet
>>
[x] Keep it short and sweet
>>
>>2486560
>[ ] Keep it short and sweet
>>
Keeping it short and sweet the two of you turn to the assembled guests and bow before heading back down the aisle together hand in hand.
From what you're able to see mom is on the verge off fainting and Linda has turned bright red. Everyone else seems to be smiling or continuing to applaud.

The guards wait almost until the last moment before opening the doors again. Stepping out into the daylight you're able to see what caused that noise earlier. Or who you assume did.

Baron Kári Darrow and Şivan Berwari of all people are outside surrounded by guards. The big bearded pirate shouts congratulations at both of you while Darrow remains silent. Hopefully thing serious happened there. Luckily if it did the Count is nearby to handle a diplomatic incident.

Troy is a little worried that the aerocar waiting for the two of you has been vandalised. You're betting either Mike your your sister tied a number of noise makers to the back of it that will make quite a racket once the craft is up to speed.

Shaking your head you tell Troy to ignore it.
"We can get one of the guards to take care of it while we're at the reception."

Sure enough the car draws plenty of attention once it gets moving. Clearly this will require some retaliation at a later date.
Other than the noise makers there are no other incidents to deal with. The two of you arrive at the reception and within a few minutes the other guests begin to arrive. You've used the time in between to have the train of the dress detached.

You and both of your parents greet everyone that had attended the wedding and thanking them in turn.
"I'm glad we agreed on a small wedding." Troy tells you once everyone has been received.

"We still have the ball in a few days." you remind him.

The two of you are called on to cut the cake and all of you spend the next few hours eating and discussing family histories. Or in the case of both of your mothers, embarrassing childhood moments. While your parents have been living well off for years the class gap is still rather apparent. Fortunately you or one of your friends are nearby to bail them out.

Talking to Alex you find out that Troy's mother was absolutely furious about Drake being here. Apparently she and her brother, the Baron Archivald, have been at odds over her ever since it became public knowledge the Baron was Drake's father.

Troy catches on to what you're discussing and helps fill you in.
"Mother was quite cross with him that she was invited. I was able to remind her that she'd been your subordinate for years so of course you would have invited her."

"As long as she's not going to have me killed."

Troy motions for you to keep your voice down. "Maybe a topic best left until we're on a different planet?"

>Cont.
>>
The guests make sure to leave plenty of wedding presents. Usually in the form of gift cards with keys to stasis vaults for most things too large to transport. The Count provides the two of you with a set of new aerocars which are supposed to have the newest protection systems. Always useful.

Once things have started to wind down and most people have begun to depart for the day Troy draws your attention to a package hidden among the wedding gifts. It has a bioscan lock which he opens.

Glancing around to make sure his parents aren't paying attention he hands it to you.
"I was meaning to give this to you."

"What is-"
You stop once you recognize what's inside. It's one of the sphere data modules. One of the Terraforming tech data modules.

>What say?
>>
>>2486897
"Wha-When-How? How did you get it out? This is surely too valuable?"

I feel bad, we don't have any kind of gift for Troy.
>>
>>2486897

>Darrow & Berwari

I wonder if they had a 'disagreement' and that was what we heard. But as was pointed out, the Count can handle it.

>Troy's gift
A man after my own heart. Words fail me, but:

This is amazing, loss for words.

Does this mean that we can consider the techdata that we got and this are meant to go together? If so, would that mean this would be the Reynard-Harmen brain child?

Any gift we might have gotten him is eclipsed by this at this point.

Not to suggest anything, but holy crap this is super amazing and we got two new terraforming companies to make up now. If not put them both under the same roof?
>>
"Wha-When-How? How did you get it out? This is surely too valuable?"
"It wasn't easy."

It takes a few seconds before you can come up with anything else to say.
"This is one of the duplicates right? Because if this is supposed to combine with the other data that would be insanely cool."

"You'll have to settle for regular cool then. It should be the same as yours."

You still intend to have it double checked.
Roll 1d100

"I wanted some ammunition in case I ever needed to challenge my parents. Plus I had no idea what you were going to do with your copy at the time."
>>
Rolled 13 (1d100)

>>2487025

>Ammo to challenge parents.
There is more to him and his parents not appreciating his going about and endangering himself. If he was planning on using this as ammo against them. Sheesh, just how bad was that argument he had with his family while we visited the Emperor?

"This is still a really cool gift."
>>
>>2487042
He does have ambitious siblings and cousins. Primary inheritance is not 100% guaranteed.
>>
Rolled 22 (1d100)

>>2487025
What could we even get him in comparison?
>>
>>2487055
Well you do have plenty of shipyards. Custom work on a ship wouldn't be out of the question.
>>
>>2487061
Next-gen Plasma Cannon Assault Corvette?
>>
>>2487061

What did he say he could use for his ground forces? I'm sure getting him one or two of those would make great use for his ground forces and if he wanted a ship, as you pointed out we have lots of shipyards.
>>
>>2487068
This would be a cool idea.

Something like a frigate or assault corvette with repulsor bike launch bays. Fly it in over a combat zone and launch them out like fighters, and a small bay to collect them too.
>>
>>2487068
>What did he say he could use for his ground forces?

Dante LST, that was it. Took me a moment.
>>
>>2487068
>What did he say he could use for his ground forces?
HAGs mostly though LSTs are good too. There were never enough available during the civil war, partly to do with long supply lines.
They're not exactly starships but he'd appreciate a couple.

>>2487070
Smallest starships to do that would be the old Standard Frigate or the newer Kharbos class modular ships. There's also the Rovinar planetary assault ships.
Again, a custom model could be made up easily enough. There's enough existing customs from South Reach or the Run to draw from.

Above this are assault transports, which you produce. Or if you wanted to go all out, Battlecruisers.
>>
>>2487091

I was still off, damn it all. Well if we can grab the parts, then yeah get him one or two.

>Battlecruiser
If he wants to start up his own wing. We got yards to spare and a fleet for him to work inside of. Get Troy through the route to becoming a Baron so that by the time Archivald does step down Troy could fill in his spot if he wanted to or take one of the newly acquired worlds.
>>
>>2487098
>If he wants to start up his own wing.
Not really, he's a ground force commander.

Of course if you cant get to the planet in question those skills are rendered superfluous.

Have to stop here for the night. I'll resume tomorrow evening, hopefully between 4-5PM.
>>
Rolled 80 (1d100)

>>2487025
Best of three still?
>>
>>2487130

>80
Yeah I'd say that is the best of 3.
>>
>>2487104
Lewd bins when?

Gift ideas:

Some of those awesome but impractically expensive command mechs.

A dedicated BRRRRRRT support force.

Shares in a Diamond mine

Genetically engineered land shark based on a lemon shark and golden retriever cross.
>>
>>2487061
What about a custom frigate as a mobile base of operations for his repulsor bike unit? Something similar to what the special forces on Rioja use but more fancy.
>>
>>2487526
How about we fuck his brains out.

Alternatively we could probably give him the data for the wacky suits we have.

Or a live forever immune to Veckron radiation drug.

Or like . . . just a LOT of money.
>>
>>2487104

Then a HAG or two he should get.

Though really need to think of something that is of equal or greater value of this gift, to give to him.

Like what >>2487526 suggested in a custom frigate or going up to a light cruiser. Get him his own Vengence class, when we order a new improved Bittenfield!

>>2487298
>>2487656

>lewds
I'm in the camp of no lewds unless we're approached for them first. We already told Troy that we like him as a friend that we're not romantically in love with him earlier. So asking for lewds seems more out of place then political marriage. Weird I know.

Spending more time with Troy and getting closer would certainly help with growing closer to him and then maybe discussion of lewds. Unless there is some ancient Dominion law or inclusion in the agreement we made, that requires newly wedded nobles to do the deed on the night of or some time soon after their wedding.
>>
>>2487920
Consummation is an important point in noble unions though. The whole Heir thing is rather important, and even if we're planning on putting it off we should show willing at least on our wedding night.
>>
>>2488018
Half of Troy's and Sonia's potential offspring are sitting around frozen in a military vault somewhere. It's 2000 years in the future, if they want an heir they can just order one delivered to their doorstep.
>>
>>2488039
Tradition though.

Also she's a virgin in her 30s time to slay the dragon and fill the crevasse with some mighty seed
>>
>>2488049
Sonian is a space wizard, it's official
>>
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>>2487298
>>2487656
>>2487920
Sorry, fade to black only.
>>
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>>2487526
>custom frigate
I've been considering an atmospheric frigate modification that would either be a high wing, sort of like an owl shape, or a low wing similar to the Zanzibar II.
>>
>>2488124
Come on. After so many years don't you want to try just one?
>>
>>2488124

Fade to black is fine.
>>
>>2488170
>Zanzibar II
Only if we get try a Zaku with a skeleton paint job to go with it
>>
>>2488170

>Zanzibar
I know you don't mean Metal Gear, but make sure you don't have poisonous hamsters on board.
>>
>>2487920
>Unless there is some ancient Dominion law or inclusion in the agreement we made, that requires newly wedded nobles to do the deed on the night of or some time soon after their wedding.
There is no law in the Dominion or in the signed agreements with the Harmen family. Some nobles wait years before having children for one reason or another.

At any rate Troy is fully aware the entire marriage is for political advantage and isn't going to force the issue of having kids right away.

>>2488018
>>2488049
These are good points, and Troy's parents would certainly feel a good deal more secure once there is an heir tying the family fortunes together. Even if Sonia got a divorce after the fact, having a kid around that is a legally agreed upon heir would complicate things.
There are still many reasons for and against doing so.

(This was going to be brought up after the wedding ball is over and I was planning to put it to survey.)

1) With the Alliance giving you the entirety of this year on leave do you feel this would be an appropriate time for Sonia and Troy to have a kid?
>Y/N?

2) Many nobles find themselves far too preoccupied with work or other official duties to have children. Others are reluctant due to the risks of assassination an heir might face. Because of these reasons some nobles pursue surrogacy as an option.

Archivald and Winifred made use of a surrogate to ensure the identity of their offspring, Katherine Drake, would not be easily uncovered.
So that's an option.

Decided to just go ahead and make the survey.

surveymonkey com/r/ ZQ5T8P5
>>
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>>2488204
Could probably get one made.

The semi-mass produced ones used by the Dominion look more like a Jesta with a Space marine jump pack.
>>
We didn't get anything from the Sphere to make a Dante mk2.
>>
>>2488371
We didn't use the Sphere Library for info on making our own version of SP Torpedos that are far superior to Terran made.
>>
>Other
>adopt a shallan orphan
There's an idea that hadn't occurred to me.

>Custom made stealth repulsor bike squadron.
Could work. It wouldn't do much for them once they started shooting but it could let them make the first strike.

Shit, I forgot to add the Veckron injector under the wedding gift options. Added. Response editing should be on as usual if anyone wants to change what they put. You just may need to refresh.
>>
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Following the wedding and reception you and Troy agree to just take it easy and prepare for the upcoming ball. Once that's done you two can discuss the finer private details neither of your parents need to see or hear about.

Retiring to your private retreat you show him around your property on Dreminth. You don't think you ever had him up here before now.
"It certainly is scenic. I can see why you like it, even if it isn't exactly horse country." he jokes.

"I was stuck here for the better part of a year when I was under house arrest because of those stupid charges. It gave me time to learn the terrain. Don't step there."
You warn in time for Troy to avoid a clump of leaves hiding a crevice.

Completing a circuit of the immediate area the two of you return the the lodge.

"Choosing between fields and plains, or trees and mountains, I have to say I prefer the former. Are there any places on Rioja that might have a bit of both?"

Thinking it over there is a mountain range in the north of Rioja where refugees have tried several times to establish illegal settlements. By now the terraforming should have turned everything between the mountains and the small northern seas into rolling grasslands. Sure some work will still need to be done but that might be a good place to set up a country house or mansion.

>Thoughts on this?
>>
>>2488506
Excited? We haven't seen Rioja since setting out for the Sphere, and I imagine some of the land would be quite impressive now that we've put the work in.

The best parts will be being able to walk upon the grass with no respirator. A country house seems nice, something nestled in the lands out of sight with a waterfall grotto.
>>
>>2488506

>Rioja, house?

So far we've been living in the city when we spend time enough at Rioja to do anything in the office. I can see the benefits of having a house in the country side. But at the same time, we could have a home in the city as well.

If we build out in the boonies we have seclusion and security and could maybe be the start of a secluded section of Rioja where the 'elite' or nobles of Rioja can retreat to when they don't want to spend their time in the big city. But if we do that it might seem like we do not trust our own citizens to have a home in the city close to them. As silly as that is.

Or we could just do what we have here at Dreminth. A country house for seclusion and an apartment in the city, if we do not already have one. For when we have work to do.

Thinking about it, I believe going with the option of a country house and an apartment in the city would be a good idea.
>>
You suggest that there might be a few places on Rioja worth looking at. One of them might be a good place to set up a country house or other estate. You'll still keep your residence in the capital of course.

"Well of course. I have seven different places just in the Loran system. Plus two on Dreminth, one on Torun and a terrible little hole in the wall on Tourta. Why have one place?"

A few days later is the celebratory ball. It's certainly one of the largest you've been to on Dreminth. The Harmens rented out a hall that would rival any of the official locations belonging to the Governor or the Count. It's a bit of an odd location. You initially think the room is an enormous dome but soon realise it's shaped more like a high arched torus. A bit of an oddity, you can see why it doesn't get much use.

Renting the large circular hall turns out to have been a good idea when the number of people wanting to attend becomes apparent. Friends and acquaintences that you weren't able to invite to the actual wedding turn out in droves.

Lorraine Day wishes you congratulations.
"You couldn't have invited me?"
"Sorry. It was hard enough to keep it quiet with just a few people attending."

She laughs at this.
"You still didn't manage it. Your security force was knocking unauthorized media drones out of the air the entire time. I was watching a few of the live streams before the last of them were isolated and jammed."

That's concerning.

Verilis Rah'ne is next to arrive followed by Cristina Pozzi. The latter Knight has a gift for you in the form of an encrypted datapad. It has an early R&D concept for a shielded Kythera reactor that wouldn't be so dangerous to use.
An attached note reads: Don't try this at home! Wait for Aries to finish building it so we can steal it. -Pozzi
>>
>>2488711
>Wait for Aries to finish building it so we can steal it. -Pozzi
Oh my gott, look at all these gifts.
>>
When you see Linda she's still excited despite having the entire reception to get over it the other day.
"I can't believe you're actually married!" she says, practically dancing on the spot.

"Linda you sound like my mom."

Glancing around the room she spots your parents and looks back to you.
"She's not jumping around."
You suppose mom did have a head start. Linda didn't find out she'd been invited until arriving in system just a few days before the big event.

Jehtot Kharbos on behalf of the fleet club gifts the two of you a Republic Assault Carrier one of them managed to salvage while you were gone.
"We had a bit of a competition to see whose salvage was going to be donated. Don't worry we all chipped in."

Rob Ecord is on Rioja but in his place a member of your personal guard presents a gift intended mostly for Troy. You instantly recognize what it is though Troy doesn't.
"What is it?"
"Personal Holographic camo system." you reply.
A simple folded note with it addressed to Troy says; "Try to keep up."

Something about that guard was off.
"Wait."
You grab the back of their uniform with your indestructible arm and pull them back.

"You are not a member of my guard." you state quietly.
By the movement of the air you can tell that Valeri is nearby and poised to take action if they give you any trouble.

Duncan turns off his disguise. "Surprise! They hardly ever let me out."

"Don't do that! My people might have killed you. His people for sure."

"Oh. Yeah. Right! His people dont know who I am. Uhh, I was never here. You don't need to see my identification... you must go to the dagobah system... I'll just go. Congrats!"

You silently facepalm while one of the guards see him out.

Thankfully the next few dozen guests are uneventful enough with a number of well wishers largely from the established nobility. Alex's parents make an appearance. Apparently his mother is now Planetary Governor of a world in the outer colonies.
"Oh we don't call them that anymore. We don't want people to see it as a border between the capital and what used to be House Dremine space."

Troy diplomatically asks what the most recent term for them is.
"We're calling them the meridian worlds now."

You thank her for keeping you up to date.

Alex isn't far behind and a few minutes later you wave to Mike and his wife when they arrive.

Felix Ekwueme is someone you haven't run into in quite awhile. He's doing well, though still primarily all about the assault corvettes. He wants to know your opinion on super heavy cruisers and carriers.
"The Dominion is doing a lot to build up the super heavy cruiser force and big gun ships. With Heavy Carriers like the Talos around do you think there's any value to Super Carriers like the ACC?"
>>
>>2488873
>What say?
>>
An officer from the Count's personal guard arrives with a letter wishing you both well and apologizing for not attending the ball. He's of the opinion that if he were present it would be a distraction, with many of the guests trying to use the opportunity to get a few words in with him.
Can't really blame the guy for that.

Later you spot Hera Boosalis among the crowds but she's too busy with the many other guests to get over to you it seems. Things are getting a bit crazy with how many people have turned out.

Another high profile guest arrives and the guards manage to clear a path for him. Admiral F.D.C. Graham is an old officer you haven't seen in a long time. Usually he was off working with Winifred on some deployment or another. He and Troy are familiar enough with each other though. That would make sense what with his battleships tending to be used to support the planetary assaults.

"I'm here to wish the two of you congratulations on behalf of myself and someone else. Knight Matyáš Fox wishes to be here to extend felicitations but recognizes that might be taken poorly given some of your history."

[ ] Get out
[ ] If he wants to say something he can say it to my face
[ ] Thank you for conveying that message.
>>
>>2488945
>[X] Thank you for conveying that message.
>>
>>2488905
Need confirmation but:
The ACC was created because the Alliance could not build the AEC in large enough quantities needed to fight the Neeran. The Talos was made to replace the Ascendancy. While the Talos has heavy armor on it, the ACC is able to survive more hits compared to the Talos. And yes, you can build more Talos at less cost and time to the ACC. But the ACC is meant to take be a center piece to the fleet, the command center when there is no AEC around to take the same spot.

The Dominion Fast Super, is meant to move fast and give and take damage to heavy hitting Neeran. Its hangar bay is very limited compared to the ACC. The Dominion Fast Super is going to be a program that will likely be the basis for future super designs. For making faster super carriers. But that time is way off and will likely be long after the conflict with the Neeran Empire is concluded.

But are the days of the ACC numbered? I do not think so. Even with Alex's Mobile Heavy Shipyards in development. In large engagements where both sides have Supers on the field. The ACC fills a role that neither the Dominion Fast Super or the Talos can fill quite as well. Which in my opinion is fine for right now. Because once this war is over. The only people in the Dominion with the new Fast Supers are going to be The Seven and their few close allies. Which will hopefully include us in the not to distant future, once the yards work out all the issues in the current gen and start the next gen so we can replace the Foreberance, as great a ship as that is. While the ACC will remain in use with the Alliance, until they come up with a replacement for it. Which I don't see the Alliance doing, unless they find a way to strap more engines on the ACC and install a big red button on the bridge to make it go faster.

Speaking of the Foreberance, our house can only afford to handle one Super right now. I'm betting that even after we lose our over extension flag we will still only be able to field one super, maybe two but that is stretching it.

>Shoot the messenger Y/N?

In the most neutral voice, poker face included. "Thank you." Let's not shoot the messenger.

Also side thought, what happened to Graham that he has to relay a message that could easily been sent by messenger or lesser standing? But I guess it makes sense that Fox would use the Admiral. Since anyone else, we would likely turn away, cannot really do that to an Admiral, at least not without some consequences.
>>
>>2488905
The ACC has its place in Alliance fleets, but with the Talos I feel like the Dominion is well covered for large-scale carrier capacity.

I'm sure there will be situations where the ACC outshines the Talos, but it's always a good strategy to keep a balanced fleet.You could have an ACC escorted by Talos's if you really wanted to run a full Corvette fleet.
I guess, yes, there is some value to the ACC, but for the smaller scale inter-house conflict the Talos would be ideal, whereas the ACC is better for running combined Dominion fleets against another Faction.

>>2488945
>[ ] If he wants to say something he can say it to my face
>>
>>2488945
> In the most neutral voice, poker face included. "Thank you." Let's not shoot the messenger.

Oh Fox. Now we know who one of your allies is.

> ACC good, fast Supers better, but logistics is a bitch so there will always be a place for them.
>>
You tell Felix that the ACC is good for the Alliance and their fleets, while the Talos is the ship the Dominion needs. Maybe the Fast Super can start to fill more of that role in the future but it could take awhile.

>>2488962
>>2488983
>>2489007
Following the old Dominion tradition of not shooting the messenger you thank the Admiral.

Guests and well wishers continue to pour in. It's starting to look like there wont be room for any dances. Officers from the Marines and a number of special forces units. Some officers from the Outer Heaven. These usually dont stay for long, many of the lower ranked officers not wanting to contribute to the lasting crowds.

You see Dayton and Sylvan have been managing to not get into a scuffle. A couple of Generals make an appearance followed by a string of older nobles. Only one of them stand out and it's none other than Levi Nxesi. The old power armor technician is looking worn out but is dressed for the occasion.

"Well, you two aren't looking bad. Congratulations. I was hoping to talk to you once things settled down after the Civil War, but then you had to go and vanish."

"Sorry. Things happen."

"I was only on your ship for a short time but I know for a fact those two words tend to apply to you more than most. I was lucky things didn't happen to me during that disaster with the machines.
The suits I helped build were being used by both sides. Though the modifications for the ones for Helios were a bit more handy I gather. How were they? I was worried cutting down on the engine power was going to be a problem when adding those gun turrets."

>What say?
>>
>>2489114

I forget, which one did we take during the assault on the throne world?
>>
Will try to get a few posts in later tomorrow then resuming Saturday.
>>
>>2489120
Modified jump jet. It had a less powerful backpack engine and 2 turrets with AI war setting phased pulse rifles.
>>
>>2489126
Thanks

>>2489114
As I recall it served us rather well. Helping us move around the battlefield and getting more opportune positions. I we didn't get into any 1v1 fights with those monsters, but the turrets were of great help against one of the nanite infected tank/ mechas that was trying to push in on one front. We could give him our combat data if it would help him better improve the designs any.
>>
>>2489114
"I don't know how much of the fighting you saw on the Capital, but it was brutal. Those special suits really helped turn the tide."
>>
>>2488873
>With Heavy Carriers like the Talos around do you think there's any value to Super Carriers like the ACC?
"Sure, we'll need fleet carriers that can repair medium cruisers with how much the Dominion likes using their Shukhants and Eminences. It'll also allow us the contribute some of the centerpieces for the expeditionary fleets the alliance is planning to send out once the Neeran are dealt with."

>>2489114
>What say?
"I'm still alive and so are a lot of other people who probably didn't expect to make it. We owe a lot of that to your suits...so, thank you."
>>
>>2489114
Is Nxesi still doing work for the Alliance? Retired?
>>
>>2489150
>>2489236
>>2489460
"They worked rather well. I don't know how much of the fighting you saw on the Capital, but it was brutal. I'm still alive and so are a lot of other people who probably didn't expect to make it. We owe a lot of that to your suits...so, thank you."

You ask if he's still working away on suit projects or if he's finally been able to retire?
"Too busy to retire. I have too much work to do on the joint Dominion power armor programs."

"So you haven't jumped ship to the Alliance?"

"No no no. I'm considered too valuable. If I did that I'd lose all of the privileges I've been granted by several Houses. Not just land."
>>
>>2491099
Would an examination of our sphere super-armor be a useful inspiration for him?
>>
>>2491163
"I- we" you glance to Troy, "picked up some unique and advanced armor recently. I was wondering if you might care to take a look at them later?"

"I was hoping to leave soon after this, but I think I might be able to arrange a visit in a day or two?"

You ask Rufaro to arrange for someone to be standing by aboard the Outer Heaven whenever he makes his visit just in case you're not there personally.

Baron Desh Xisoth arrives but only after one of the other Barons have left. This place must be operating at security capacity you guess. There's only a few minutes to catch up but both of you are glad to see the other is alive and well.

Several ambassadors are next, both those from other Factions and other Houses. The Ruling House's ambassador informs you that the data has shown to be valid and that land on the capital should be transferred to you in the near future.

The Emperor has also sent as a wedding gift several units of the lightly armored jump jet walkers you faced at the capital. Some are dones but most are a new manned model. With lingering concerns about vulnerabilities to drone platforms manned versions had to be developed, even if only for clone crews.

A representative from the Rovinar embassy gifts you a new... shuttle? Starfighter? It's somewhere in between, but it's supposed to have a good camo and stealth system.

House Veritas gifts the two of you a small but secure residence on their capital should either of you choose to visit. They'd also be more than happy to discuss trade deals if either of you were interested. A number of their worlds are still undergoing terraforming. Presumably they'd like to not be bumped down in priority.

After several ambassadors have been met with Troy warns you about an incoming media rep.
"I don't know how they even got in."

It turns out to be Letty Perina who works for Halide Inc. The movie company you've made several deals with.
"Congratulations both of you on your return from the dead."

Not the greeting you would have opened with in her place.

"Congratulations. I don't suppose either of you would be interested in a movie deal covering your lengthy disappearance? If not a few of our people had other movie opportunities written up based on some of your previous exploits that hadn't been covered yet.
Your families refused to allow them to enter production while you were gone on threat of legal action."

>What say?
>>
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I've been working on the Rioja map. Things seem to be greening up nicely.
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>>2491263

>Veritas
I wouldn't mind discussing trade with them. Especially since the Count has already done so and we do have established relationship with them and have worked well in the past. So yeah, getting Fadila and London involved we could set something up with them.

>Halide
If they have other stuff to put out. That will not get them legal troubles, now that we are both back, they should be able to do them. As for the story of our three year sojourn. That's still considered classified info and as great as it would be to rub in the face of the Neeran that we snuck in and out under their noses multiple times. That was still partly an Alliance mission, that we funded, they would need to ask the Alliance for what parts have been declassified that they can use. We could on their behalf also ask the Alliance rep on what info we can give to Halide, that will not jeapordize Alliance operations around the sphere or against Girisha.

Speaking of the Alliance, what happened to that Neeran Commander we helped to capture? Have they got him out of that bubble yet and used him as propaganda material to humiliate Girisha yet? We could definitly use that as part of a movie.

Coming to theaters this Fall! Viscount Sonia Reynard and Knight Troy go on a daring mission to venture into enemy held territory to seek ancient treasure and capture an enemy Neeran commander who has plagued the Dominion since the opening volleys of the Empire Neeran invasion Alliance space! Operation Sphere Divers!

Corny movie ho!

>>2491296
>Rioja map updated
It looks so green! It won't be long now until we are the greenest planet in the Run. And to think a few years ago it was a ball of rock and dust.
>>
>>2491263
Honestly not sure how I'd feel about a Sphere movie. Maybe one of our other adventures but it could attract commando attention if an enemy who was deployed to the Sphere ended up in Faction captivity, and all of a sudden we have a movie that's vaguely similar.
>>
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>>2491379
>Honestly not sure how I'd feel about a Sphere movie.
Unlikely to be worse than that other sphere movie.
>>
>>2491340
>That's still considered classified info
>they would need to ask the Alliance
The Alliance has zero interest in telling them where you were for the last few years as just the existence of the Suvorov taskforce let alone anything they've been doing is still considered highly classified.

>what happened to that Neeran Commander we helped to capture?
They've evacuated the prisoner and should be making use of their propaganda value soon.

>Corny movie ho!
That's what Halide makes and it seems to work for them.

>If they have other stuff to put out. That will not get them legal troubles, now that we are both back, they should be able to do them.
>>2491379
>Maybe one of our other adventures
They'll have a few of the proposals sent to you for review. It would give you something to do on the flight to Rioja.
>>
>>2491665
Other thoughts for Sphere based movies. Tell the tale of our long lost marines surviving the crash of the pod and then making their own settlement on the surface of the Sphere?

And then a follow up movie of us going out to find those lost marines and bringing them back to the House. That is if the Alliance is fine with letting it be known that the Light Neeran City Ship was captured and almost brought to crash into the capital of the Republic.
>>
we could do the Interstellar thing with a blackhole.
Our ship got trapped in the time dilation field after chasing war winning info on a enemy ship.
Ghost ship aplenty!
Action!
Romance!
>>
>>2492318
Or since we are a legit Space Wizard have it be some sort of Gandolf thing.

We even came back to become Sonia the White by getting married.
>>
>>2491665
Could we sponsor a sports team? Sonia's Savage Sharks .
>>
Despite guests taking up most of your time the two of you do eventually manage to get in a dance at the ball. It's crowded and more than a little crazy but you manage.

It isn't until the number of people starts to decrease that Svidur chooses to make an appearance. This creates quite a stir but not nearly so much as if he's arrived earlier. Whatever he's been up to in the past three years he's relearned how to manifest his disguise as a giant of an old man. Much like with Neeran infiltrators stealth you can see through it with a converter which Valeri helpfully hands to you.

Disguise or not he seems quite happy all of you are okay.

"Congratulations to the both of you and my compliments on escaping. I had no idea my suggestion would put you in so much peril. It might be safer if I dont give any more advice. It always seems to end with people in mortal danger."

Things could have been worse you suppose.

"What have you been up to?"

"A few years of self discovery, paired with regular debriefings with the Alliance."
He looks in the direction of the Alliance officer that's been assigned to keep an eye on him.
"I imagine it's been quite illuminating for them. Also I dont need a staff now in higher gravity environments, though I certainly wish I had one."

>Anything you want to ask?
>>
>>2492618
> Discuss the results of the artifacts he gave us. His help has saved many more lives than it risked.
>>
>>2492618
>Svidur crashes the ball.
"Sneaky old wizard, welcome to the party. Sorry for not inviting you to the wedding. Giving advice is not bad, it is what we choose to do with said advice. Besides I have a story to tell you when we are in a more secure location."
>>
>>2492620
>Discuss the results of the artifacts he gave us.
The R&D you did with them? Or the ones you were able to personally use?
>>
>>2492640
Both! There has to be somewhere here for private conversations. Also he has wizard skills for privacy.
>>
>>2492665
>There has to be somewhere here for private conversations.
Yes, though stepping out would be rather conspicuous what with hundreds of people present.
>>
>>2492665
>>2492684
Friendly reminder we can tell him just about anything we want when we are on Rioja and not on Dreminth.
>>
>>2492706
>>2492684
Then just thank him for his help with those and remind him that he's done a lot more good than any risk that might have come with it.
>>
>>2492618
Has he figured out how long his new lease on life will be?
>>
"You're still a sneaky old wizard. Welcome to the party. Sorry for not inviting you to the wedding."

"It's perfectly understandable. Given the turnout just for this ball I imagine it would have been difficult to decide on your guests even before my particular security concerns."

You thank him for his help, both with the items he left behind for you, and the information he'd shared.
"Giving advice is not bad, it's what we choose to do with said advice. Your help saved many more lives than it risked."

"Thank you. I wont feel quite as guilty now about having sent you into that."

Next you ask if he's figured out how long his new lease on life will be.
"Perhaps four or five hundred years? It's still difficult to say. Your people have a saying about flames that burn twice as bright. The enemy's commandos are not ones to go quietly and they choose to burn very brightly indeed."

"Will you be able to visit Rioja? I have a story or two to tell you when we are in a more secure location, and I wouldn't mind showing you the planet."

"I would be delighted to. I'm afraid I haven't had the opportunity to find either of you a wedding present. Perhaps I can think of something along the way?"
>>
>>2492855
Has he considered starting a family? If not right now, maybe once this war is over?
>>
>>2492855
I think the artifacts he originally provided would count as a present-in-advance?
>>
>>2492869
>Has he considered starting a family? If not right now, maybe once this war is over?
"I do have family but I decided long ago that I needed to follow a different path from that of the rest of my people. I don't begrudge them their preference for isolation. It kept them safe for many thousands of years.
It is my fate to wander the distant worlds and stars. I can't stay in one place for too long."

"I think the artifacts you originally provided would count as a present-in-advance?"
Troy agrees that they certainly came in handy.

"If you insist I wont press the matter. I would have liked to find a gift that was more thematically appropriate."

Svidur departs not long after as do many other guests. It's quite late now and only a few people remain that the two of you have yet to meet. A gift from Ferigold includes a free pass to have a light transport container smuggled anywhere in Faction space.

The PCCG ambassador delivers a gift from Militia Commander Firth. In it is the location and access keys for a safe house that should remain secure (if left undisturbed) for the next 80 years.

Şivan Berwari manages to get in very late, though apparently only after donning his Alliance uniform.
"I'm very sorry about that mess at the wedding with Baron Darrow. It was really unfortunate."

"What happened?"

Apparently Berwari secured one of the last sources of SRL data on pirates and their families that had been operating in Dominion space before the war. An archivist once approached you claiming your mother was the daughter of some pirates that operated in the region. Their initial attempt to blackmail you with this data didn't go over well; you laughed in their face and welcomed any attempt to publish something like that.

You later decided to offer them average payment for genealogical research provided they could develop a more in depth break down. Certainly not a lot of money but enough to keep them off the streets.

Berwari has a bit more data than that having been compiled by the old Warlord over most of the previous century. Looking for a way past security he contacted the Baron along the way. Having learned the contents of Berwari's gift Darrow seems to have gotten it in his head that he could legally object to the wedding under certain older Dominion laws regarding piracy.

When these aims became clear there was a bit of a scuffle outside the cathedral between Berwari and Darrow.
>>
>>2493036
Wait, since when is Darrow a dick to us?
>>
>>2493036
>Darrow
I'm going to choose to believe that Darrow on accident mistook Berwari's gift.
>>
>>2493081
Normally he hasn't been. This must have been the only thing he could think of to stop Sonia from marrying Troy. Even if it only would have delayed things by a day or two.

Worst possible outcome the Harmen family might have decided they didn't want their son marrying a pirate. Unlikely given your fortune.
>>
>>2493102
And that negates what I was thinking. Maybe at another point pull Darrow aside and ask him what his problem is? Or what he had hoped to gain from delaying the wedding. I had thought we were on good enough terms.
>>
>>2493128
Dude gifted us a rare corvette, and we led him on a few times, I can understand his unhappiness.
>>
>>2493165
Wasn't that his parents pushing him to do that though? Or am I thinking of someone else. Also Sonia leading someone on and not really knowing she is, is something I can believe.

If this marriage ends for some reason, she's going to need an advisor/ councilor on how to properly tell when she's leading someone on.
>>
>>2493128
>>2493165
At least it didn't end up with a duel between him and Troy.

While that might have been cool I could easily see Sonia interrupting it and knocking Darrow unconscious.
>>
>>2493198
>Wasn't that his parents pushing him to do that though?
Most members of the nobility have parents pushing them to get married. They're usually not going to specify the who when their kid is a Baron. So chasing after Sonia was his decision.

Sonia had made it clear towards the start of the Civil War that she wasn't ready to pursue marriage at that time so he gave her the space she wanted. Then she returns after a 3 year absence and within a few weeks it's announced she's getting married.
>>
>>2493235

Okay I can see how that would upset someone. Then perhaps we should explain things? Or would that just make things worse?
>>
>>2493250
A letter might be a good idea.
>>
>>2493257

This is a mess Sonia dug herself into. It should be one she gets herself out of, so a letter and an apology of some kind. I dunno, I feel a letter would be to little, but I guess we need to repair the bridge somewhere.

And now I feel guilty for pushing the wedding so hard. But not enough to regret it. Unless someone close to Sonia dies directly because of this decision.
>>
>>2493295
I mean. Are people still willing to try that? We're kind of at the point where we would be totally willing and able to launch a small war in revenge. We also have a lot of personal allies, among one of whom is the current Ruling House, as well as outside the Dominion.

It's totally the wrong pressure to apply to Sonia now.

If they were to bait us with adventure or salvage it would be a different story.
>>
>>2493295
You already ruined 6 years of 'don't touch that can of worms' consensus that kept the quest enjoyable. Now is definitely not the time for any regrets.
>>
>>2493373
Revenge plot for screwing something up that had been good before hand doesn't seem right.

>>2493391
Yeah, I made my bed of worms.
>>
>>2493295
>Unless someone close to Sonia dies directly because of this decision.
Highly unlikely at this stage. You have an alliance with the Harmen family. Attacks on your family would be incredibly risky for anyone.

You thank Berwari for the gift and apologise that he had to get caught up in the complications of a love triangle. As he'll be heading in that direction anyways you tell him that there is a festival planned on Rioja. He says that he might stop for it on the way to South Reach.

It takes two more hours for the last of the guests leave. The two of you end up speaking to a few late arrivals before departing yourselves.

The next few days are busy ones. Troy has a great deal of work to do and people to see before any departure for Rioja. If not for other things you have going on it might even be better to take separate ships.

You write up a letter to Baron Darrow explaining your decisions and apologizing for not having properly considered the situation you put him in. It's a start at least.

Darrow did gift you a Corsair years ago. Did you want to return it?

http://houseanddominion.wikia.com/wiki/Corsair_class
>>
>>2493431
Would returning it wholesale be seen as an insult? Despite not marrying Darrow, I did like him, so would it be seen as offensive if we gifted him a ship of similar value?
>>
>>2493475
>Would returning it wholesale be seen as an insult?
That is a good question. A gift is a gift after all.

>would it be seen as offensive if we gifted him a ship of similar value?
Probably not.
With luck it might be taken as the conciliatory gesture it was intended as.
>>
>>2493506

Maybe a ship of similar or greater value? And a message that if he wants the Corsair back he just asks for it?
>>
>>2493547
Could work. Did you guys have anything in mind? An intact corsair would not exactly have been an easy ship to get hold of.
>>
I'd rather just give him back the Corsair
>>
>>2493580
Nothing immediately pops to mind. Other then getting him a ship from our yards, so maybe just return the Corsair then.
>>
>>2493580
Maybe see what the latest one the Neeran are fielding?
>>
Most attack cruisers you build aren't exactly rare. Except the Nocturn which is insanely expensive.
Maybe an EC-K detector type? Replaces some of the weapons with detection grid probes to search for cloaked ships.

>>2493669
>Maybe see what the latest one the Neeran are fielding?
They've developed their own counter tot he Rovinar Planetary Assault Ship. It doesn't have as much firepower but it can rapidly deploy super heavy tanks.

Another high speed transport similar to a Marauder has been spotted.

Most other new craft are Medium cruisers. Intel has sighted what seems to be a new Super that may intended as a scaled up version of the "Quattro" medium.
>>
How hard would a Fast Super equipped with rotary plasma cannons bully heavies and mediums?
>>
>>2493716
[ ] Give him back the Corsair
[ ] "Hresvelgr" Planetary Assault Ship
[ ] EC-K Detector
[ ] Dusk II upgrade (customized by Bekka)
>>
>>2493781
>[ ] Dusk II upgrade (customized by Bekka)
>>
>>2493781
>[x] Dusk II upgrade
>>
>>2493781
>customized by Bekka
Is this setting Darrow on the Bekka route?
>>
>>2493781
[ ] Give him back the Corsair
>>
>>2493826
>Is this setting Darrow on the Bekka route?
Not necessarily. She uses the Dusk II and is better qualified to customize it.
>>
>>2493716
It would cause them quite a bit of trouble I imagine. Less on average than the 5 gun light siege weapon turrets simply because the rotary plasma cannons have shorter range.


With Berwari's gift you have more potential data on Mom's family. Something she really doesn't want to talk about ever. It seems there is very little you could do to change her mind on it. Having it show up on a documentary some day would undoubtedly be incredibly upsetting for her.

Did you want all data on her side of the family sealed as long as she's alive?
>>
>>2493944
>Did you want all data on her side of the family sealed as long as she's alive?
yes
>>
>>2493944
>Did you want all data on her side of the family sealed as long as she's alive?

Sure.
>>
>>2493944
I like that, keep her happy for a while at least.
>>
You send Bekka message asking her to stop by Rioja on the way back to South Reach. Not for the festival but to help customise a new Dusk II that will be given as a gift to Baron Darrow.
"You're paying me for this right?"

"Yes, you're being paid a consultancy fee."
"And new afterburners for my own ship?"
"Fine, but that's it."
"Thanks sis!"

That's underway. Next you tell Mom that you have data about her side of the family and that you're going to lock it away for a very very long time. As long as she's alive unless she changes her mind.

"Good."
"That's it?"
"About that topic? Yes."

Well that's resolved.

Next on the list, Eldal has agreed to a meeting with a representative of the Krath government. He'd like you to pick a place and time.
"If it's on a planet please have a ship in orbit with mass drivers standing by. Just in case my government has other ideas."

Where did you want to set up a meeting?
>>
>>2494051
Rioja, middle of the Badlands.
>>
>>2494051
>>2494066

Sounds like a good location. And we can just claim it to be practice for when we get into Empire Neeran held worlds. As flimsy an excuse that is.
>>
>>2494051
Do the watchers have an embassy somewhere in Dominion space? That seems like neutral ground even the Krath government wouldn't be willing to violate.
>>
>>2494087
>Do the watchers have an embassy somewhere in Dominion space?
Maybe in the Dominion's capital?

>>2494066
>>2494074
According to Vanderwal the Krath government already have people operating on Rioja. Would you want to give them much warning before the time and date of the meeting?
>>
>>2494097
>>2494087
No one thought to invite a representative from watchers to the reception did they?
>>
>>2494097
Aboard an Isolationist ship?
The old BH capital where we commanded the Civil War efforts?
Somewhere in the South Reach?
House Veritas?
Fake building an SP torpedo manufacturing plant to attract Terran Blackops and hold the meeting onboard the facility?
The old mobile asteroid base we used to do secret projects from?
Whatever planet the Fast Super yards are in orbit of?
>>
>>2494097
I guess tell them we want to talk to their ambassador about something important? Also Make sure Vanderwal has our own security/ intel team active and watching.

Just to make sure, we still have samples of that miracle compound that we found on the sphere?
>>
>>2494117
They're not big fans of wearing environment suits.

>>2494123
>Aboard an Isolationist ship?
That would be hard to pull off.
>The old BH capital where we commanded the Civil War efforts?
Could be done.
>Somewhere in the South Reach?
>House Veritas?
I dont know if they would be up for what could be a politically messy situation.
>Fake building an SP torpedo manufacturing plant to attract Terran Blackops and hold the meeting onboard the facility?
wat
>The old mobile asteroid base we used to do secret projects from?
Mobile? When was it made mobile?
The asteroid base in the Surahek system is non-mobile. It manufactures LSTs and HAGs in addition to its vehicle research.

Have I got the wrong base?

>Whatever planet the Fast Super yards are in orbit of?
That's in the territory of a new minor House House. Formerly in House Che'len space.
>>
>>2494144
>I guess tell them we want to talk to their ambassador about something important? Also Make sure Vanderwal has our own security/ intel team active and watching.
Can be done.
>Just to make sure, we still have samples of that miracle compound that we found on the sphere?
You don't but Eldal does. Apparently he requested some before you left the sphere.
>>
>>2494175

>Eldal has the samples.

Then lets explain to him our plans to use some of those samples to get his government off his back. So they stop attempting to take him back for reprogramming.
>>
>>2494167
>Mobile? When was it made mobile?
>The asteroid base in the Surahek system is non-mobile. It manufactures LSTs and HAGs in addition to its vehicle research.
Sorry, I was completely confused and mixed up the Anchorage.

Honestly I'd vote for the BH Capital instead.
>>
Valeri reminds you of the old phone booth location in the north of Dreminth if you were looking for a closer location.
There's also Alaior where you should have a bit of land. Alex would probably be fine with providing backup if needed.

>>2494206
>explain to him our plans to use some of those samples to get his government off his back
"That was why I took them." he replies.

"Oh. Well, good!"

[ ] Rioja Badlands
[ ] Watcher Embassy in the Capital
[ ] Old BH capital
[ ] House Veritas
[ ] Fast Super Yard
[ ] Phone booth
[ ] Alaior
>>
>>2494267
>Alex would probably be fine with providing backup if needed.
Did we get that skyscraper built under our castle?
>>
>>2494267
>[ ] Rioja Badlands
>>
>>2494267
[X ] Rioja Badlands
[ X] Phone booth
>>2494289
You mean a fuckhuge bunker mate?
>>
>>2494267
>[ ] Alaior
>>
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>>2494304
>You mean a fuckhuge bunker mate?
Nah, I mean a skyscraper.
>>
>>2494320
That doesnt seem nearly as secure
>>
>>2494324
It probably also tastes bad.
>>
>>2494320
>>2494289
>Did we get that skyscraper built under our castle?
This sounds vaguely familiar but I dont recall any serious support for it.
>>
>>2494360
Thats what it is! bad taste for a paranoid person
>>
>>2494386
okay just forget about it
>>
>>2494289
Also, is this a vote for Alaior?

If not it looks like we'll set up a meeting on Rioja.
>>
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Gift suggestions.
>Plasma weapon
While they're in wider scale production they can still be difficult to acquire. There is the plasma rifle intended as a gift for Daska.
Otherwise you'll have to roll for difficulty of acquisition.

>Giant robots
Certainly possible

>Custom made stealth repulsor bike squadron. (x2)
Two of these requests in the other section.

>Dante gunship style custom attack jetbike, fully enclosed
I dont know how that would work?
Dante gunships have legs for engines and arms for guns. They're also 30m long making them large enough to carry a shield generator. I'm open to suggestions on how to turn that into a jet bike.
>>
>>2494494
>Dante is 30m long
I just realized that's larger then a Reaver in 40k.

As for a Dante style bike... huh, maybe have it turn into a heavy tank instead?
>>
>>2494521
Replace front wheel with repulsor unit and back wheel with 2 thrust vectoring systems?
>>
>>2494594
It could probably work. Might have to science it with dice to see if research can be done to make it happen?
>>
>>2494609
It can be done, it's more a question of if it should be done.

Getting distracted here. At any rate the highest voted options were a tie for the Heavy Assault Gunships (HAGs) and one of the Veckron injectors. So those are getting gifted on the return to Rioja.

Was there anything else to be done before departing the J-D homeworlds?
>>
>>2494626
Inform count / council that we will be getting land on the captial and what their suggestion would be on what to use it for.
>>
>>2494653
You make sure both are updated on things and they promise to get back to you with a few ideas. RSS and its subsidiaries could certainly make use of offices with preferential rent levels there as could others. Hell, the Harmen family really could if the terraforming business suddenly increases.

Likewise residential is always in demand for people wanting to be closer to things. It's a topic to think on during the trip.

Making a few visits you say your goodbyes to everyone before departing for Rioja. Troy likewise is able to finish everything he was looking into, getting a few things done with friends of his.

Your Command ship and escort depart the homeworlds making good time. Eldal remains aboard one of the LSTs, being rather concerned that the rather large ship or its crew may have been infiltrated. If it was the Devourer you'd be fairly confident in your ability to spot anyone or anything out of place but not on a big ship like this.

The veteran crew members are happy to share some of their experiences during the later part of the Civil War while under Drake's command. There wasn't time to catch up with many of them before your mission to the Sphere.
Kaz tells you about some of the ship's temporary CO's they'd had to put up with during your MIA spell. Apparently one of them were quite bad and it was necessary to get Commodore Tes'us to boot them. This might have caused an incident had any of the crew been loyal to the temp.
One crewman who accused the Commodore of unlawfully removing the captain from command was stunned by the marines. Since then things aboard have been good.
>>
>>2494913

>Bad Captain
So taking a look into officer school or what not then? Unless this was an isolated incident. Would be really shit to find out we got a CO and crew who are no longer loyal to Sonia on her own command ship. That would be a really nasty surprise.
>>
>>2494992
Isolated incidents fortunately.
Some promotions went through a little too quickly and easily while the House was continuing expansion of the military and replacing losses. Some vets have transferred to the home fleet to help make up for losses there.

The officer in question was a bit of a sycophant in the home fleet and was sent out here as part of the re-shuffling. The Commodore and Admiral Tama have dealt with them appropriately.
>>
We're dropping towards the bottom of the board fairly quick. I was hoping to deal with the finances tomorrow but that may not be possible. I'm also going to be super busy next week so I dont really want to start a new thread tomorrow and let it sit for several days.

Did you want Sonia's arrival at Rioja to be a big thing, or reserve any celebrations for the big festival?
>>
>>2493415
I'm mildly irritated at you taking credit for a marriage I've been advocating for literally for years.

Even >>2457482 and >>2458077
was me phone posting.

I worked for this outcome.

But we all made it happen with the survey. So we all gotta accept the credit for this.
>>
>>2495133
> Yes

Do both.
>>
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>>2495154
I was not expecting such a small number voting for not at this time.
>>
>>2495133

Save celebrations and what not for the big festival. Get all finances and stuff started when we arrive, but save parties for the party day.

See you next thread TSTG. Thanks

>>2495154
Sorry for implying the credit was all mine. But you are correct, everyone played a part in it.
>>
Fadila arrives back at Rioja while your group is still in transit. Convenient since her help may be needed to prepare a few things before your arrival.

"Get some fireworks ready. I'd really like people to know when we've arrived on the planet. A parade at the capital, all of it. Buy and hire local to boost the economy."

"I'm sure I'll manage to talk the Governor into it." Fadila replies.

When the fleet arrives in the relay you're called to the command center. A full wing of six squadrons of J-D ships are waiting near the nav station ready to escort you back to Rioja. They all look to have been recently painted in Dominion purple with full House markings. A few of the attack cruisers have been given gold coloured heraldry.

[ ] Tell the escort to fall in
[ ] It's a trap!
>>
>>2495305
Its because you shot down the bekka idea
>>
>>2495510
Fall in
>>
>>2495569
If you're the one who entered
>Other: Or maybe bekka
You didn't really elaborate on that much.

The only thing with Bekka I recall shooting down was Baron Vlegel.
>>
Stopping here.

Big thanks to everyone who have donated and those who continue to donate on the patreon. It's certainly helped to take some of the stress off.

Will update on the twitter and the wiki once I know when I'll be able to run next. I'll probably know one way or another by Tuesday.
>>
>>2495510
>[x] It's a trap!
Sonia paranoia go
>>
>>2495481
I mean I'm super glad people got on board, and that they were excited about it.

Much better than the days of hugging Linda.

>>2495305
Which is what surprised me is that nobody else suggested Linda.
>>
>>2495510
>[ ] Tell the escort to fall in
>>
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>>2495756
I feel we can do better, but glad it's helping!
>>
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>>2495305
welp




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