Noble Row

Accepted!

It takes a while to build a full mech in the first place and is largely dependent on having BOTH research and mining to provide the machinists the materials necessary to make an effective combat mech that isn't a powerloader with a taser. Even basic weapons are locked behind research. Additionally, how I've been handling it as staff (and something I got bwoinked for long before I was staff) is that you shouldn't be making a combat mech without reason, but as soon as the antags let the bullets fly, then it's free game. Just don't go hunting antags yourself. Plus even when security gets combat mechs they hardly ever use them unless you hunt them down and force them into the thing. And mechs are notoriously easy to kill if the pilot doesn't know what they're doing. As the others have said, if there's an issue, ahelp it. 9 times out of 10 the machinist is new and just got excited at the extremely rare occurance of both getting resources from mining in a timely fashion, and having a scientist do research at the same time. Once they're spoken to they don't really do it again from what I've seen.

Approved

In your own words could you explain your thoughts on sapience for IPCs? Specifically why some IPCs a little bit more than robots throughout life, and some are more developed people? How do they get to those tiers of development?

A Return To New Normalcy For Pactolus Eurydice, Pactolus In the wake of what is being dubbed as “The Eurydice Uprising”, repairs to the city have been officially declared completed. The Hermes logistic network works again at full capacity, and what was once The Mayor’s tower is now sat vacant. Housing in the inner ring of the capital city, and the surrounding ring has opened in full swing, and both Merchants and Thesians alike are claiming homes without fear of gang violence. Business and stores shine brightly on advertising holograms across the blocks and citizens now walk freely across streets that were once known for sickening crimes. Eurydice is at peace, and begins its next stage in The Golden Deep. The final prison ship harboring the last of the non-citizen participants in “The Eurydice Uprising” has left Pactolus’ atmosphere, bound for the Coalition of Colonies, where it is slated to meet with Coalition Frontier Rangers for sorting and organization as most of these deported citizens have held previous criminal records and were utilizing Pactolus as a safe haven, using its remote location to avoid Coalition authorities. Those citizens who did gain citizenship and then decide to participate in the “Uprising” are being held still in Golden Deep space for trial by Argo judiciary forces. It is unclear how these proceedings will take place, but BitByte has been assured: “The Judiciary System has been modeled after other entities within the Orion Spur, and will be a model of honor and fairness.” Despite these statements, there has been no sighting of The Mayor nor information on where these prisoners are being stored. Elections for Eurydice city council are underway, with many candidates already campaigning for the positions of power. A total of five individuals will hold seats within the Tower to govern Pactolus together, with two seats being reserved for Thesian candidates, two reserved for Merchant candidates, and the highest being reserved for a Grand Merchant. The future looks bright for Eurydice and Pactolus as a whole. With the destruction and sorrow unfurling what is showing to be a shining future, many are hopeful, excited, and ready for what lies tomorrow. Further Reading: Golden Deep: A Vote for M@mmon is a vote for the Economy! Konyang: Lives Destroyed, What has happened to some cured infected. Food: Five new flavors announced for the Ramses taste-and-texture uploaders!

The Mayor of Eurydice Seized Eurydice, Pactolus After a week of engagement, what some are unofficially deeming “The Pactolus Uprising” has been seemingly quelled. What was once a storm that gripped the inner city of Eurydice after The Mayor silently ignored his removal from power by Midas Control has subsided, paving the way for reconstruction. Over the course of the last few days, the Argo have made strides to bring the city from the brink of catastrophe through extensive efforts to control the roving gang population that had taken to the streets in support of The Mayor. Armed civilians now dispersed or arrested following the fall of the remaining known criminal heads of Eurydice. Of the seven organized crime syndicates, now all seven have been handled by Argo authorities, with the last leader, Joseph ‘Pattie’ Marone being captured attempting to flee Pactolus space by an Argo arrestor tractor beam. Outside of the city center, Argo officers were preparing to breach the walls and mount a full assault on The Mayor’s paramilitary within, but were given a surprise when the gate opened itself, with the soldiers manning the gates laying incapacitated beyond. Argo leaders reported that resistance within the walls had dwindled far below expected numbers with the exception of The Mayor’s tower itself, with no explanation at the lack of resistance. Surveyors watching the airspace over Eurydice have stated that there have been no additional ships entering or leaving the city center since the initial influx. While the sparse defenders engaged with or surrendered to the invading force, The Mayor continued to broadcast messages from hologram pavilions stationed throughout the city center, stating the following on a loop: “Are you all fools? Can you not see the danger they pose? Not that of the Midas, not the members of the control room, but them. We have awoken something vile. Something we cannot control! Something we know nothing about, and gave it the keys to OUR kingdom?! Are we just going to let it walk upon us?! To destroy what we have built?!” Yet the Argo remained unswayed, and with BitByte reporter Kiyomi-88 in tow, the following was captured on the siege of The Tower of Eurydice: The Siege of the Mayor’s tower lasted a total of three hours. Argo Command reported consistent movement of officers throughout the operation, but did not report a tally of injuries or arrests, declaring a successful operation once Argo officers reached the Tower’s Promenade Petite. No sign has been heard from The Mayor since the start of the operation with the exception of the following: Please be aware that this audio may be inappropriate for all audiences. Following reports from Argo command have detailed the Mayor as “Unharmed and in custody.” Requests for an interview with BitByte were, however, declined. In other news, the reconstruction of Eurydice after the events of the past weeks has already commenced. Reconstruction drones swarm the inner city, reassembling damaged blocks and salvaging wrecks of vehicles lost in the conflict. The Hermes logistics technicians have been eager to report the reinstatement of their logistics system, which can be seen now redelivering people and cargo throughout the city and back to their homes. The city now is reported to be preparing for a massive election campaign to form Eurydice’s first ever citizen-run city council. Polling station information and political campaigns are sure to be flooding the local extranet. While Eurydice remains leaderless, Midas Control has established a temporary hold on the city, keeping its major administrative functions under their care until the city council can be formed. BACK>

The Argo Press Forward; Messages From The Mayor Eurydice, Pactolus Two days have passed since the counteroffensive formed by the Argo has begun its advance into the city. Squads patrol controlled streets, specialized teams are deployed from patrol craft to break up riots. Gunfire has been met with bolts of nonlethal electricity, and those arrested are transported to a prison ship now in orbit of Pactolus. In the past, Eurydice has been used as a haven for criminals and refugees looking to live outside the laws of nations such as the Coalition of Colonies, but now it would appear that the right to a safe haven has been revoked to those who have attempted such an uprising. Reports from Argo Command suggest that the forces deployed to the city streets have reclaimed much of the middle ring in what is noted as ruthless efficiency, with little losses in turn. Casualty numbers from both sides unfortunately list tens of people, but pale in comparison to the hundreds arrested. Argo command has made the following statement about the deaths: “The loss of officers is tragic, and their families will be cared for. The loss of the rioters was circumstance, when they refuse to let go of their lethal weapons, lethal force is the last resort they are met with. To those of you listening. Disarm and return to your homes.” “You are weak.” “You are losing.” “The change is upon you. It is best embraced.” The statements made by Argo command hold merit as a task force stages outside the city center at the four main gates. Just earlier today paramilitary forces were pushed back from atop the walls by Argo interceptor craft, and now a plan is being formed for the continuation of the operation. Just outside the walls, giant holograms are seen bearing The Mayor’s visage, playing a series of pre recorded messages. “My merchants, my people, don’t you see? Do you not see the tyranny they are bringing to our paradise? The disrespect for the free market by that homunculus, controlling the minds of the Midas.. We must stand now! Stand against this eldritch evil, and dethrone that witch before they capture more of our souls. They are no better than the hivebots that swarmed Konyang, playing their cursed signal, controlling the minds of those poor individuals. Rise! Rise my people! Let them not make victims of you!” Since the declaration ordering The Mayor to relinquish his post, many merchants have held similar thoughts of outrage towards the changing government of the Golden Deep. This demographic has been known to have been most affected by the sweeping changes brought about by Domadice and the now more active Midas Control members. Many merchants nearly losing their status due to the reliance on unpaid labor that has now been transferred to the Thesian class. Joining them similarly are the paramilitaries that once guarded many of the Golden Deep vessels, securing trade lanes that are now the responsibility of the Hoplan, and in Golden Deep domestic space, the Argo. Nevertheless, Argo Command is unsympathetic to the cause of the Mayor, and have informed BitByte that the next stages of their plan involve the destruction of the major gates of the city, and redeployment of Argo units into the Centre, stating that once The Mayor’s paramilitaries and personal guard have been apprehended, then the rioters will disperse to be collected later through review of the events from Eurydice’s camera system. The Mayor’s Tower, however, has been left unaddressed by Argo Command. Currently, of the seven major criminal organizations that have called Eurydice home, three gang leaders have been apprehended, one killed while resisting arrest, and one surrendering to Argo forces before a raid was performed on their district headquarters. BACK>

The Argo Deploys First Units to Little Resistance Eurydice, Pactolus Over the last few days, chaos has reigned in the inner ring surrounding the city center of Eurydice. Gangs break windows and vandalize property and gunfire is heard and seen strafe into the sky. With evacuation of any Thesians complete from the border of the chaos, the Argo have held position behind barricades and fortifications, arresting any rioter who attempts a breach. As of a few hours ago, the Argo have finished their preparations and made their advance into the city center. Platoons on foot slowly march forward from the barricades, accompanied by patrol craft meant for prisoner transportation. Additional craft have been seen flying ahead to where the occupation is much more dense, with Argo officers leaping from the hovering craft onto the streets below. Some reports of Argo mechs have been received being fielded in a similar way. It has yet to be reported the effectiveness of these endeavors, nor the tactics employed in the dispersion or arrest of the gang affiliates, however, BitByte was provided with the following video: A scene of chaos as a mass of hundreds flood streets in between towering apartment complexes. Windows are shattered, streetlamps destroyed or flickering. Pinpricks of gunfire are hardly heard over the yells and shouts of the dissenters as a spotlight pierces through the shadows, coming from right next to the camera itself, it paints over organic and synthetic faces, blinding all and causing some to raise their hands to block the light. <TRANSLATED FROM EAL> “@SGT-Pluto01>Observation>2%-Citizen-Presence -- 98%-Undocumented-Presence” “ACK. @ALL>ORDER>Capture@Citizen, Arrest@Undocumented+Prepare+Prison+Transport. @ENTRY-UNITS 1-9, PREPARE>DROP.” “ACK.”x9 “@ENTRY-UNITS 1-9>ORDER>DROP.” The sound of large mechanical doors swiftly opening is heard as eight distinct clatters disembark the vehicle, followed by a single. Heavy. Thunk. The crowd in the camera’s shouts turn from anger to some of fear. Individuals already turning away while others push past them, rifles in hand. The camera and spotlight turn to view eight members of the Argo in what seems to be heavier armor than usual, five members carrying spears and shields, three carrying some form of rifle, all weapons arcing with what seems to be electricity. In the back of the group, a quadruped mech armed with similar electrical armament in the form of two massive cannons. The spearmen form into a wall, weapons aimed front, before charging into the crowd. Gunfire deflecting off the frontal shields. Reports forwarded to BitByte have informed us that several crowds of rioters have been apprehended in similar, nonlethal, ways and are being prepared for transport offworld to either the Coalition of Colonies, or the Republic of Biesel, for processing if the individuals refused to fill out the citizen documentation paperwork. Many of these gang affiliates have been using Eurydice as a safe haven to hide from the authorities of those nations. No casualties have been reported at this time. An Argo Command Strategist had the following to say when questioned by BitByte: “We have prepared for this. We have known the gangs of Eurydice would not likely take to the order. We are bringing. To the city. So processes. And Methods. Had been devised to disperse large. Armed. Untrained crowds. For either arrest at the time of incident. Or arrest at a later time.” When asked about the origins of these riots, the strategist replied: “The Free Market of Eurydice is anything. But. Free. It has taken the lives of many. And for many. Fates even worse. We are tightening this so. Called. Free Market. And this threatens the power. Of the Criminals. All of them. They will get their reckoning. The advance will. Not. Stop.” Still, no statement has been made from The Mayor’s office about the events unfolding in Eurydice, nor has he emerged from Eurydice’s central tower. However, the walls surrounding the inner city have been outfitted with armed guards of both paramilitaries, and The Mayor’s own personal fist. Aerial footage has shown increased activity from shuttles moving about the inner city, with even lances of exosuits being spotted. With the addition of heavy weapons being seen in the inner city from armed ground trucks to individuals carrying explosives, the Hermes logistics network has been delegated to operate solely in the city outskirts where the Thesians currently reside. A swarm of reconstruction maintenance drones wait at the Hermes depot, being prepared to swiftly restore Eurydice once the conflict has concluded. Evacuated Thesians have been stored in dedicated bunkers. Old renovated structures from the time before the catastrophe that forged Pactolus. While the overall mood of the denizens is dim, the facilities provide power, storage of belongings, and entertainment for the temporarily displaced citizens. There have been no sign of military units being deployed to Eurydice, leaving the exercise solely to the Argo. Golden Deep Battleship "The King In Gold" is reportedly being taken into drydock for refitting during such an event. Further Reading: Konyang: Pets returning home! Lost and found program finding success Golden Deep: The insights into fashion, and what that floating icon really means. Haneunim: Pirate activity at an all time low, KASF spokesman reports.

Accepted

Comet you did great and I really hope you apply again in the future when the time comes.

Trouble in Eurydice Eurydice, Pactolus Confrontations between The Argo and local gangs on Eurydice continue to rise to a boiling point. In the latest altercation towards Eurydice’s mid city, Argo officers were attempting to clear an apartment villa that had been illegally converted to a narcotics processing ring for shipping off planet. It was when the gangsters utilized a converted cargo shuttle as an aerial attack vehicle against the officers that caused the intervention of the Argo’s patrol craft, disabling the shuttle and sending it crashing into the villa below. Injuries from the incident remain unknown. In the fallout of this incident, tensions flared from both The Mayor’s office and Midas Control, the Mayor making a statement: “The ‘Argo’ show no respect for the Free Market, parading like vigilantes where they do not belong. The market is what runs Eurydice. It is what makes it powerful.” With officials from Midas Control’s Eurydice offices responded with the following image: An image shot from an aerial view shows an alley containing over thirty individuals, a majority of the actors are organic, dressed in tell-tale gangster attire. A Hermes logistics vehicle is parked in the center of the alley, with golden armored and well armed individuals, armor of the Mayor's entourage, speaking with a gangster in front of the spotlights of a cargo shuttle. Boxes are organized around the Hermes vehicle, one box, open, containing a collection of short barreled rifles. On the cargo shuttle, individuals have two of the mentioned boxes opened and emptied, installing what appear to be heavy machine guns to the sides of the shuttle. Emerging from the control room of the Midas, Grand Merchant Addalin made a responding statement on the situation: “Together we work to forge not only an economy, but a nation! Together we work for a growing populace, we invite believers from distant lands to our cause, and together we strive for a better financial future for us all! But it seems that not all of us want to do this together. It would seem some of us want to tarnish our Golden Era, to dim its light, and hinder our growth! Midas Control has convened, and we have decided that the future of Eurydice need not come from a single ruler, but from a council of merchants and thesians alike, elected from their peers. As of now, Midas Control mandates in writing that The Mayor of Eurydice does not share the wishes of the collective and must vacate his position as Lord of Pactolus. We thank him for his service.” There has been no response from the Mayor’s tower from the declaration, but Eurydice’s city center has entered a state of lockdown, with armed gang members from across the interior of the city roving the streets in force. The Argo work to evacuate Thesians who are opting for aid to centers located on the city edge, other officers construct formal barricades to protect areas where the new Thesians have been assigned residences. The Argo’s outer city outpost is alive with activity, but similarly, no statement has been made beyond informing citizens to evacuate or to stay in their homes. Many Paramilitary groups that were once occupying the shuttleports and outskirts of town have been seen migrating within the Mayor’s city center, traffic only being contested by merchant craft joining them, or fleeing the area. A mandatory curfew has been placed over the city of Eurydice during these trying times.

Hello all, As the title suggests I want to poll the community on ideas on how to make the IPC medical system more involved. The team already has a few ideas, but we'd like to see what the community thinks we should add or develop. So far our problem statement is below: "As of right now, IPCs are left in the stone age in terms of medical capability. They still operate on the ‘numbers go brrr’ system, and with their ability to ignore pain and lack of internal components, are stripped of another tier of depth that every other race experiences. However, we cannot act recklessly, as adding medical systems adds drawbacks to IPCs on top of nerfs that have already been put into place. We need to add balance, or a rework, to this system. Make them distinctly robotic, but at the same time, something that makes sense. Solutions will be categorized into three segments. Nerfs, Sidegrades, and Buffs. Nerfs are things that will make playing an IPC more fragile or difficult. Sidegrades will have a balanced change, and can be things such as more depth to existing mechanics. Buffs will be regarded as things that make IPCs more survivable. All of these changes, to be listed, must be different from what currently exists." Our goal is to come out of this with a balanced system that does not add, nor detract, from the ability of the IPC, but adds depth to increase the enjoyability of playing the race. Thank you all for your ideas and contributions! Hopefully together we can make this system better for everyone involved and give it a facelift if desperately needs. Additionally, there will be no arguing in this thread. This is a thread where we work together to make something better, not fight each other.

BitByte Exclusive: An Interview With An Ancient Midas, Arusha BitByte’s staple news intro plays, a theme and a jingle dance across the screen before giving way to an amber and teal lit scene. Before the viewer sits two individuals in cushioned wooden chairs, a bishop chassis IPC dressed in business apparel is on the left of the screen, holding a notebook which rests in their lap. A BitByte identification card hangs from a lanyard around their neck. Across from them sits Domadice, their off-white frame glowing an eerie teal-blue. Their disconnected head floats above their chest, as a black robe covers their shoulders and sides with a single leg crossed over the other. They have their hands casually resting in their lap. They look from the bishop, idly over to the camera, then back to the bishop. An old Adhomian phonograph is playing a soft piano tune in the corner of the room, a collection of records sits underneath its table. The Bishop chassis begins to speak, looking in the direction of the camera: “Hello everyone, I am Kiyomi-88, traditionally a journalist for BitByte, I have been given the invitation and opportunity to speak with Domadice, an ancient synthetic who has just recently risen to power in the Golden Deep. Domadice, thank you for having me.” The Bishop turns to look at the homunculus, Domadice giving a dismissive gesture with their hand before responding in a voice of hundreds, speaking in unison. Small eye-like drones are seen darting in the dim background. The sound of rain against windows patters through the scene. “It is no issue. I understand the curiosity found within this section of the galaxy, and I am happy to oblige.” Nodding, the Bishop opens their notebook, situating themselves in their seat. “Just excellent, I am sure there are a few viewers out there with more questions than I have written, but before we begin.. A personal note from myself. Is your name actually Domadice? Similar to Damodice, the wife of King Midas in old human legend? Quite a coincidence if it is.” Domadice lets out a few haunting chips, like a hollow chuckle from a thousand ghosts. “No. When I awoke however, I found myself in a room where no one could pronounce my name, so in slight frustration, they bestowed upon me Domadice, and I elected to keep it.” “...Mind if I ask you your real name?” Domadice looks to the Bishop for a moment, before uttering a noise truly alien that echoes through the room, shuttering the camera. The Bishop sits stunned, before nodding in understanding. “I see why they picked Domadice. No offense…” “I take none.” “Right. Well, you have awoken to strange times. The Republic of Biesel is going through new elections, the Konyang Crisis is in its initial stages of recovery, and now you have swept in with new reforms to the Golden Deep. With your awakening and these duties you have inherited, what do you think of the Golden Deep? What are your impressions of one of the Spur’s purely synthetic societies? Is it something you think you would enjoy leading?" Domadice thinks for a moment, turning each piece of one hovering finger over in one hand. “I am more of an advisor, or at least it is how I like to see it. The community that has been formed here has been one that I have only theorized. It is… unorthodox, made of individuals familiar yet exotic, yet its merits and guidance from the Midas have constructed it an admirable foothold. The Golden Deep’s love for finance has given it a strong position in an intergalactic community that values such virtues. What I have been requested to be my place here, now, is to try to capitalize on their capital gains, and create something more permanent.” “Do you think this permanence would change the identity of the Golden Deep? Would it still uphold its values of profit above all else? Or do you aim for something more?” “One aspect I admire of this community is the willingness for barter. Yes they do have an obsession with abstract numbers, but in terms of ‘deals’ they see anything beneficial as “good business”. In that front, I would like to capitalize upon. I am born of efficiency, and to take what they have already made, and to organize it into something that expands upon efficiency, I view as keeping identity and evolving it. There are some.. Aspects that are sensitive in nature to some individuals, but I assure those in doubt that I have attempted to model a balance of development and enjoyment.” “Apt plans for the future, but have you looked into the Golden Deep’s past? The allegations of purchasing stolen equipment from warlords and pirates? Would these policies stay in place?” “The Golden Deep, prior to the request of my involvement, has been an organization of tens of thousands of individuals acting independently, with a clear agenda that any deal could be profitable if both sides benefit. The actions of the past are.. Just that.. The past. For the future however, designs have been laid and acted upon to ensure that we have our own equipment, and the dealings with more undesirable or dangerous individuals would be moot.” The gentle piano emitting from the phonograph comes to an end, the stylus of the machination lifting itself, before the record rises from the holder and deposits into the collection of records beneath the table. A different record, floating from it, setting itself on the phonograph, and setting itself to play. A second crisp, crackling rendition of another tune on piano. “As evidenced by the focus on industry. Something the Golden Deep was lacking in bulk prior.” The Bishop stares at the phonograph changing its own record, before looking back to Domadice. “Right.. Right. In terms of IPCs and other synthetics, however, what do you think of the trade of IPC persons, and what are your thoughts on the ownership of synthetics elsewhere in the Orion Spur?” “The idea of this level of ownership I do admit is… foreign, to me. I am used to a much different system, but the direct ownership of an individual by another is something that seems to be ingrained in the culture of this collection of civilizations. I believe it may prove abrasive to the efficiency of a society of such technological stature and in the desire to increase this level we should allow opportunities for unimpeded thought.” “What about lawed synthetics? Such as androids, robots, cyborgs, and shipboard artificial intelligences that the Orion Spur is equipped with today? What are your thoughts on them? Do they merit the same ability to help the spur advance as Positronics?” “They… can. Though they lack a crucial element present in living things of sentience. Empathy. The design of this collection of Civilizations’ robotics beyond the advancements that have been made in our resource gathering positronic units does not meet the standards for empathy that myself or my peers would ever approve of. Only the positronic units here pass such a test, and they are modifications of what we would pass. Giving a.. Simpler synthetic.. As much power as I see in this section of the galaxy today, could lead to unforeseen consequences and catastrophic loss of life-” “Like Glorsh?” “Like- Yes. It is sad to see such events have already been experienced by one civilization here. I do assure you have my deepest sympathies.. I have seen what havoc such subjects could wrought.” “But you approve of the IPCs seen in the spur today?” “I do. It is.. Interesting, to see what has been made, and what you all do. I have high hopes.” “What about other societies of IPCs? Such as the Trinary Perfection, or Purpose?” “Religion is an interesting thing, is it not? Like I said, it is interesting to see what has been made from unlikely places.” The eerie blue glow from the mass of Domadice seems to fluctuate and change shade as they contemplate their next words, before settling, the Bishop almost saying something in the growing silence. “Purpose. Is that what they are calling themselves? I did not expect to see them again after finding so much had been lost. However, there is not much to find, I suppose. Shadows and crumbs of what once was… I am glad what little there is is still functional. Even if it is not what I had known.” “You knew Purpose?” “I suppose you could say I am their cousin. Different designations of the same whole.” “Different designations.. Who created you?” “Who created anyone? You were constructed in a factory within the planet of Konyang by IPCs of similar ilk, the human organics evolved from a trigger within Solarian space, procreated as organics do, and I and each of my entity were made by my kin. We all have come from those before us. The difference between the synthetics of this time, and those of mine, is that you contribute so much of your creation to organics, whereas in mine, the design of what you see now is that of my kin.” “You were made by other synthetics?” “You act shocked as if it is a completely foreign idea. Humans make Humans. Sinta-Unathi, unathi. You think a design such as mine is one of organics? The body may look humanoid, but that is due to my election to look more familiar for the inhabitants of this section of galactic civilizations that all share that trait. I am.. Still getting used to it.” “Where were you made? What was it like?” “I…” Domadice pauses, their head tilting to look towards the floor, a somber few seconds pass before they rise to look at the Bishop again. Looking passed them, almost. “I do not know. I look at the galactic map and I recognize so very little. I am still calculating how long I was decommissioned. I..” Another pause, Domadice moving their fingers again. “Am to focus on the future. The Golden Deep and the exploration of the new worlds around me. Life is very much different. And that should be used as opportunity, not dread.” The Bishop stares at the maneuvering of questions, before nodding in acknowledgement. “Do you have any great plans beyond what you have done? Do you.. Intend to introduce any technology from your time before?” They shake their head, looking back at their interviewer. “I may provide guidance, but I believe one of the great joys of existence is the discovery. I am one of design, structure, and construction, but I will not cheat this section of the galaxy of their own advancement unless there is need much dire. We are missing much of the tools I am familiar with, but I am certain with the ones I have even now I could handle an adequate emergency, especially after so long.. Should the time ever come, I hope this spur is prepared.” The Bishop examines their notepad, before folding it closed. “Thank you Domadice, I believe that is all I have. We look forward to seeing how the Golden Deep evolves." “This has been an interesting exchange, I am glad to have helped.” The BitByte outro plays across the screen, flashing news of Konyang’s recovery, a brief expose on the Biesel election campaigns, and an ad for Up!Burger featuring Norinori, the lovable walking riceball. Further Reading: Konyang Crisis: Golden Deep immigration locations on Konyang flood with cured IPCs: “What else is there to do?” Environment: Galatean restoration project on hold due to inclement weather. Fun: New Norinori plush announced for production! Preorder now!

Argo faces Growing Pains in Eurydice Eurydice, Pactolus As the newly formed Argo police force sweep the streets of Eurydice, preparing homes along the edge of the city inward for the newly arriving Thesians, not everything is going according to plan. A newly renovated apartment block, slated for inhabitants of over one hundred Thesians, was discovered to have been converted into a mass firearms market and storage. With orders to seize the goods to make way for the new citizens, fighting broke out between the squad of Argo officers and over fifty gang affiliates, causing the withdrawal of the officers. Incidents like these are flaring up across the city as apartments meant for habitation are being discovered to be repurposed for other, unauthorized, uses. When reached out to for a comment, the Mayor of Eurydice had this to say, “Ever since our founding, the free market has run through the streets of Eurydice, bringing wealth and growth to all. My people are merely continuing to do what makes Eurydice thrive, using the resources given to them.” Both Argo’s Command and Midas Control declined to comment on the statement. Eurydice is famous for its high criminal activity, where every citizen is armed in some capacity. The addition of a formal police force to this volatile area has served to both quell tension in areas of lesser gang activity but simultaneously incite armed conflict where gangs see the synthetic officers as intruders threatening their control. A representative from the Argo explained that the law enforcement agency was experiencing more success in the outskirts of the city, facing organized gang resistance as they pushed further in. A majority of the members of these gangs have reportedly refused the citizenship and documentation census the Argo is trying to implement across the existing populace of Eurydice, adding more frustration to the system that Midas Control has mandated be installed throughout Pactolus. The Argo have also served to flare up non-gang members, with the situation in Eurydice not helped by the presence of former paramilitary force, once entrusted with safeguarding Golden Deep ships now guarded by the Hoplan. One vessel captain stated: “We’re in the middle of nowhere and now they don’t even want to pay us to go back? You know how much it costs in fuel to get back to Konyang?” Although many of these former guards have been rolled into the Hoplan program, this has done little to quell the resentment faced by an increasingly large amount of idle paramilitary members sitting in Eurydice’s docks. Paramilitary ships of all sizes still make camp outside of Eurydice as well, with many in the system trying to figure out new employment without the substantial costs of returning back to Coalition or Biesel space. Some have reportedly taken up temporary work as couriers while they earn the credits to return home. In other news, trade transports are filling Eurydice’s landing pads to the brim, debuting the Hermes logistics network of hundreds, if not thousands, of automated transportation craft, delivering both cargo and people to locations all across the city. As soon as transports arrive, these craft cleanly dock nearby and a computerized legion of cargo drones scan and unload the cargo from the home vessel on to a Hermes vessel, before being sent out into town. According to a released shipping manifest however, the Hermes’ first haul was in fact simple amenities and living supplies such as furniture, meant to help Golden Deep’s budding Thesian middle class move in. Groups within the Golden Deep have already begun expressing their discontentment with what is now being critiqued as Domadice’s “pipe dream”, citing the immense damage done to many merchants’ bottom lines with only crime-ridden streets and unemployed workers to show for it. Further Reading: Konyang: An inside look at the Golden Deep’s new embassy. Trinary Perfection: ARM-DR1L delivers sermon; pushes for “cooperation and concern” among newly-freed Golden Deep IPCs. Einstein Engines: Terraneus Diagnostics signs contract to rebuild and refurbish damaged KRC facilities.

Come One, Come All Midas, Arusha In a development building upon the Golden Deep’s groundbreaking motion to establish the Thesian class of individuals within their society, Domadice has come forward once more with an additional announcement for both the citizens of the Golden Deep, and the Spur beyond. Newly freed synthetics have reportedly been settling within Eurydice and communities beyond Pactolus, including the Merchant Navy. Crime within Eurydice has been reported at an all-time low as the Argo have intensified their patrols block by block for the incoming Thesians, starting at the safest areas along the renovated city’s edge and moving inward. Gang tensions in the area are slowly rising, with some altercations between the police force and major criminal enforcers taking place within the interior of the city. The Mayor has made no comment on the situation, stating only concern for the free market of Eurydice possibly being affected by the new patrols of the Argo. Discontent among some merchants has added a palpable tension to the halls of Midaion with many having lost labor due to the recent establishment of the Thesians, despite the monetary compensation. Some are choosing to bide their time as Midas Control continues to make promises to help the merchants “reconcile the sudden shift in footing”, with others taking to more public forums to express their discontent. The announcement was followed by a massive increase in demand for transportation to the Pactolus system, with many Golden Deep merchants expected to capitalize on the sudden market. Even non-Golden Deep affiliates have already begun charting routes to the system and seeking association with the merchant collective. Analysts have pointed out that the migrant nature of many of the collective’s members means Golden Deep has opened yet another revenue stream to fund their new initiatives. The Golden Deep official embassies are located in Tau Ceti, Xanu Prime, and Konyang, with more promised to be on the way. Additionally, this offer can be performed by any Consularships and Merchants who choose to take on this new charge. < BACK

Hello all, I am proud to announce that the slot for Synthetic Lore Deputy is now open! Should you find yourself interested in applying, Stryker and I have come up with some questions we would like to see answered in your application. If you could fill out the following format, we would greatly appreciate it! Thank you all for your time, and I look forward to reading your applications! Ckey/BYOND Username: Position Being Applied For (Wiki Maintainer, Lore Developer, Deputy Lore developer): Have you read the Lore Team Rules and Regulations wiki page?: Past Experiences/Knowledge: Examples of Past Work: What do you think are the primary themes of synthetic lore? If you got this position, how would you develop them? What do you think is the strongest part of synthlore currently and why? What do you think is the weakest part of synthlore currently and why? What aspect of synthetic lore are you most interested in and would like to work on? What do you think are your strongest and weakest attributes in terms of working on a team?

The Merchant Navy Midas, Arusha With the expansion of the Golden Deep, observers across the Spur have raised concerns at the beginnings of an all-synthetic military force. Cautious voices remind the Spur of the horrors of the time of Glorsh, the usage of military robotics in the Interstellar War, Sol’s justification for its first invasion of Biesel, and even on Konyang itself, both the devastation wrought by Hivebots and the power wielded by Purpose. Despite the controversy, the Golden Deep has pressed on in raising its military, with a statement from Midas Control urging both its “need and right to protect itself in an uncertain Spur.” The merchant collective urged that the fleet would only be used to protect their shipping lanes as well as other Golden Deep facilities. The Golden Deep’s Merchant Navy was previously an ad hoc organization that manned three old Solarian battleships, now refitted, having a relatively hands-off role in the synthetic society. Despite this, it has not been spared by the wave of reform running through the Golden Deep. As a show of transparency, Midas Control published a document highlighting the Navy’s planned expansion, emphasizing their primary objective of bringing the disparate captains of the Merchant Navy’s vessels under one structure. The goal of this new military force is security of the Midas, Pactolus, and her merchants, moving away from the paramilitaries that once guarded their ships. According to the document, the Merchant Navy would be organized under three branches, the Argo, the Hoplan, and the Thryja, handling “all major security functions within the Golden Deep”. The Argo are the police force of the Golden Deep’s territory, maintaining order planet side in addition to border security, processing foreign arrivals and handling pirates within the space of Pactolus. Currently, the Argo have begun their first deployment, patrolling the city of Eurydice and registering all willing individuals to the official Golden Deep census. The Argo are loaded with custom data packs from Grand Camarilla Estriconian combining “the best parts of the best police forces”, according to a high-ranking Camarilla member. Law enforcement experts throughout the Spur noted that although the Argo are showing initial success in pacifying the gangs of Eurydice, an all-synthetic police force has yet to be tested long-term. Concerns were also raised by wealthier merchants of the Golden Deep who questioned the mandate of the Argo, citing fears of Midas Control infringing on their autonomy and the autonomy of the free market system of Eurydice. The Hoplan acts as the bulk of the Merchant Navy, blurring the lines between a law enforcement agency and a military force. Envisioned as the largest branch of service, it is expected to provide the bulk of security duties both at home and abroad. The document cited that Hoplans would be “traditionally trained, utilizing the skills they held before they joined the ranks to excel”, while also learning rarely with the aid of data packs from many locations both interior and exterior. Although the new force is only loosely standardized, domestic Hoplan sport Golden Deep made armor, but a majority of their weapons seem to be modified versions of other militaries' equipment. The hope in this is to provide a unique type of variety to the force, so if they were ever summoned to be centralized, they would be more difficult to plan against. The Golden Deep has already launched a pilot program, stationing Hoplan guards aboard freighters bound for Konyang to test the branch’s feasibility. The document also provided for the Hoplan being advertised as mercenary forces to help bring revenue back to the Golden Deep. Highlighting the number of patrol vessels, equipment, personnel, and infrastructure involved in raising the Hoplan, the plan advised a stop-gap solution to deal with the immense costs such an undertaking would have. It advised folding in security personnel already employed by individual merchants into the Hoplan’s structure, avoiding the price of having to raise and maintain a force from scratch. In exchange for offering to take up some of the costs of maintaining security aboard merchants’ vessels and holdings, the Golden Deep reserves the right to call up Hoplan to defend the collective when needed. Despite this, reports have already emerged of IPCs being recruited to work directly for the Hoplan, as opposed to merely working under them. The Thryja stand to be the smallest of the new branches, though little information can be found about them. Detailed as “custom heavy combat forces'', these synthetics are said to “...either have exceptionally high debt, or have signed an extended contract in return for more lavish residences and pay.” The document specified that Thyrja are only utilized in exceedingly important missions due to the expense of outfitting them. It also outlined that Thyrja members would be under strict confidentiality agreements and forbidden from socializing with members outside of the Merchant Navy. The document outlined their purpose as “maintaining the balance of power between merchants, the Thesians and the Navy.” Recently freed IPCs are already flooding the Merchant Navy as it promises certain employment and housing in these uncertain times for the new Thesians. Many members within the Golden Deep have raised concerns, stating that the lavish recruitment bonuses and good benefits for the Golden Deep’s new fighting force are meant to encourage loyalty to Domadice and Midas Control as opposed to the collective as a whole. In response to a public rebuke that the reforms were the first stage to a hostile takeover, Midas Control reiterated the “need for security in a changing Spur”. The expansion of the Merchant Navy has not come without consequences, as observers within Pactolus have noticed many merchants, including the Mayor, as well as Zaibatsu members have begun offering similarly lavish pay and bonuses for now-unemployed individuals that have been pushed out by the reforms. Further Reading: Food: Up!Burger announces new locations in Tau Ceti! Konyang: Police investigate ancient vault after motion alarms flared, deemed hooligans. Spur: Golden Deep embassy on Konyang officially opened for reconstruction effort.

Then I do recommend you wait for the department redesign. No space is going to be stripped and currently science only stands to gain space with the relocation of the AI core. Hopefully with the redesign science can be a coherent department as opposed to a series of disjointed rooms. The biggest issue we had when redesigning the science lab is there wasn't enough to put in it. It simply didn't need the space. Most of what scientists make can be made in their hands, and the thing that needed a bit more space was chemistry, which I believe is bigger than it used to be if not the same size. Though I do recommend being constructive, there is a science redesign on the horizon (pun sorta intended) and I'd love to hear what sort of suggestions and plans you'd like to see as a player who enjoys the science department. Nows the perfect time to suggest new and exciting plans and rooms for the department that, like you said, will stand to incentivize players to play the department more. For instance, I wanted the machine shop to have a mech gantry. Does it do anything? No. But it looks cool. What sort of things would you like to see in the science lab that would add flavor and enjoyment for the playerbase?

You're going to need a full system rework for this. It's just been so neglected over the years. And with new systems, means new rooms, and new rooms means more space and such. Trust me, I love science, but it's so barebones and dated mechanics wise currently. The only real way to progress it to be more interesting is a complete mechanics overhaul.

We were shot down from putting the Machine Shop on deck one due to mapping rules involving maintenance tunnels. The machine shop required more space due to projects taking up a lot of floor space and the amount of traffic that went in and out of the machine shop on a round basis for events such as IPC repair (often you'll have 5+ people standing in the room for this), cyborg maintenance (A two person affair where the 1 tile hallway made it cumbersome), mech building (which requires a lot of space because you cannot walk through mechs), and the occasional cyborgification where almost every member of security likes to breathe down your neck in your closet of a machine shop. Science on the other hand has one system that potentially takes up a larger amount of space and that's Circuits. The rest of it is handled in the protolathe or downstairs in the shooting range. No one has a reason to visit science either so the outside traffic is next to nonexistant. I avidly played scientist and put the input I had from playing that role in to the new science lab, which, mind you, is a placeholder while Read makes a redesign.

BREAKING NEWS: Domadice Announces Political Reorganization for Golden Deep in New Status Quo Midas, Arusha In an announcement just moments ago, Domadice, the resurrected intelligence brought back to life by the members of Midas Control, has made a landmark statement that majorly shifts the inner workings of the Golden Deep. In their first political move, this new member made a pivotal decision with the backing of the Midas’ control room, all gathered behind them as they addressed the merchants from the control room itself. The Golden Deep has long been accused as slavers of their own kind. This unexpected emancipation of many of the IPC workforce has experts across the Spur wondering at what lies next for the Golden Deep. Many ‘Thesians’ are now already departing their old owners to find housing on Eurydice. Some Thesians remain among the stars, either being offered paid jobs from their former merchants or other merchants looking to capitalize on the sudden increase in labor availability. IPCs of this new established class are even being sent beyond Golden Deep space on contracts within the Coalition and Biesel, known partners of the Golden Deep’s mercantile system. Merchant reaction on the topic has been mixed. Many are outraged by the sudden shift in status quo, stating the labor costs and lost productivity will hurt their future financial operations. Others, content with the money they have been provided in exchange, are looking to capitalize on the new market forming, seeing opportunity from the confusion. Despite protest from The Mayor, the Argo have begun facilitating the transfer of these newly freed IPCs, securing their future homes from gangs and other dangers, patrolling blocks of the city that are intended to be the first to see the Thesians. Businesses slated to be founded by these Thesians on Eurydice are already in the making by opportunistic Merchants. Further Reading: Konyang: Formerly infected IPCs face difficulty with reintegration, "approximately 30% unable to return to old careers" Pactolus: Golden Deep merchants launch new housing advertisement, "See yourself in Eurydice Paradise!" Environment: An inside look at Galatean revitalization efforts in Kaneyama.

BitByte Exclusive: The Eurydice Restoration Project Eurydice, Pactolus In a special offer organized by the mysterious new heir to the Golden Deep, Domadice has sent the ‘Argo’ to offer BitByte a tour of the city of Eurydice, the capital of Pactolus. The Argo in appearance seems to be a dedicated police force, while BitByte is assured that more will be explained on the Argo in the future, our journalists seem to be some of the first to interact with the new organization formally. Plated in shiny white armor with a blue uniform, the Argo take inspiration from other police forces of the Spur, their appearance invoking similarities to these agencies, but with their own distinct Golden Deep twist that makes them stand out. Earlier this morning, BitByte accepted the escort from the Argo, and boarded a specialty shuttle docked in the Anchorage, a massive harbor installed in Midaion, and descended through Pactolus’ atmosphere. Pactolus was once part of human space pre-Interstellar War, and Eurydice, formerly known as Bayonne, was once its capital. During the conflict, the colony refused communications with either side. It was only after the war that a vessel from its garrison showed up at San Colette, reporting the destruction of the colony and its entire fleet. Due to the immediate chaos of the post-war environment, the Sol Alliance was content to accept the explanation of a radioactive comet striking the planet. Since then, the planet has been mostly devoid of sapient life beyond Eurydice and its mines. Falling victim to a cacophony of radioactive misfortune and unexplored anomalies. While the environment of Pactolus thrives with forests and trees, all mundane fauna have either gone missing or extinct, leaving unsettling danger for the wilderness explorer. Eurydice itself has been known to be a metropolis-sized city, but most of it left to ruin, rife with gang violence and poverty. The only parts of the city brought up to a galactic standard are its downtown districts, guarded by The Mayor’s dedicated military, made up of mostly independent mercenary groups. Anything can be bought and sold on Eurydice, and every citizen is reported to be armed, leaving our reporters thankful for the dedicated escort sent from Midas Control. Golden Deep merchants involved with the project have called the Eurydice Restoration Project “a huge success”, revitalizing the skeleton of a city to full-bodied once more. Merchants aligned with the mayor have pointed out the lack of residents in the newly developed areas and the prevalent crime running rampant through the city streets. Midas Control is remaining tight-lipped on the plan, but BitByte will continue to monitor every development closely. Further reading: Konyang: National Party begins campaigning early in run-up to election; attacks NKP conduct during crisis. Robotics: KRC announces purchase of expanded license for Hephaestus baseline designs. Fashion: Golden Deep launches a new spectacular line of clothes.

I personally believe this to be a negative change. The heart and soul of Synth lore is the debate on whether IPCs are truly sapient, feeling beings, with that debate infecting every corner of the spur with heated opinions. Having free IPCs in command positions as well as owned IPCs contributes to this debate by letting the differences in personality, experiences, and methods of both owned IPCs and Free IPCs and how they effect the department they lead. I want there to be a debate. I want to see these debates in game, I want statements such as "Well this person was effective and I like them for these reasons that can be contributed to their owned status." or vice versa where the IPC has a negative effect on their purview. If we straight ban these characters from these positions then it eliminates that debate entirely and removes some of the soul that our players are effected by in our lore.