evandorf

I disagree. If allowing yourself to die is unreasonable, why is the option there at all? Similarly as a thrall, if you are a command member and know that you can’t disobey a vamp’s orders but know that you will do extreme harm to the crew if you continue to be under their control, it would be one of the few times suicide would be a viable option. A captain, dead by suicide, alone in their office is rife with RP and investigative potential. So long as you’re not giving the antag away.

I don't think the OOC protections are as necessary as they used to be. Let me provide my reasoning and see if you agree. To my knowledge, vamp thralling is the only antag ability remaining that is both unavoidable and a persistent compromise of these elevated positions. Turning a Captain or HoS into a new vampire already bypasses the mindshield since it is more of a whole body experience and the new vamp is not bound to the antag. Cult conversion is not guaranteed and can be resisted. In the propsed changes, the mindshield will be optional, not completely removed. I think to Seniorscore's point above most will have drank the koolaide of the SCC and will want the protection the implant brings. The option to go without will only be for niche characters. Given the above two points, you're looking at a very small percentage of instances where you have a niche antag and a niche command member who is susceptible to that antag. Even if you were to run into an issue where a susceptible Captain or HoS was thralled, vamp commands to their thralls, unlike AI laws, are not omnipresent. Thralls keep their own identity, perspective, and feelings, so much like how a subverted AI will be expected to not instantly vent the ship, thralls are resources for the vamp and not trump cards. Beyond the mixed effectiveness of a thrall, the Captain and HoS are not unimpeachable to the crew. The Captain can be ousted through command vote if he is acting against the crew or SCC interest. The commander requires even less. The effectiveness of these roles to a vamp will be primarily in the midgame where the whole issue isn't yet known to the crew at large. Once secrecy is lost the rest of the crew will ignore or contain the affected command members. All that being said, I would reiterate that this is only a concern for certain niche command members and that the likelihood of it happening in the current server climate is rather low.

I don’t think there was an intention, and this is more than likely two different aspects of lore that don’t mesh but it’s relatively niche so it hasn’t been addressed. Other people might be able to provide more insight.

I guess my personal biggest hang up is the unathi angle. It was confirmed to me recently that all unathi require a religion and that spirituality is a key aspect of their culture. The only unathi religion that doesn’t have an issue with implants is Aut’akh, but they are not command viable for various reasons. @Lent23 can correct me if I’m wrong but even though there are possibly agnostic/atheistic unathi out there, our characters are expected to keep to general standards set forth in the lore. So how can the discrepancy be addressed? I feel like we’ve mostly just ignored it in the past but IMO the mindshields feel like a relic of older server culture and don’t quite gel with the scarcity vibes recently, not to mention NBT2.

I run into this issue with Unathi Heads of Security from time to time. A lot of unathi wouldn't opt for implants and those that do (Aut'Akh) aren't command viable. I'm sure there are other groups that would prefer not to be implanted, but even individuals might just have personal hangups about it. I think the server culture has evolved past the OOC need for these to be constantly guarding against vamps, cult, and whatnot. Even so, if you want to be protected I think you can just make it a loadout item only applicable to the chosen roles. The only other thing I think would need to be considered is if there are active regs about it that need to be changed. @CatsinHD , thoughts?

I don’t really have a strong opinion on whether or not minors should be allowed, but I’m struggling to see a reasonable way to verify someone’s age. Someone can correct me if I’m wrong, but AFAIK the community is kept PG13 due to legal CYA caused by the likelihood of minors present. If you were to say that explicit subjects and materials are allowed because you prohibit minors from the space then you would need to have mechanisms in place showing that you are taking appropriate steps to verify age. I’m not sure of the exact law the server falls under since it’s not hosted in the US. There’s also the argument that most things needed for general storytelling are allowed under existing rules. What do you feel is missing that you can’t talk about currently?

That sounds amazing! Is part of this plan to change how turfs or zlevels work? I might tinker with a proof of concept for the planet but it’ll be good to know if there will be changes to exo and turf generation. The abstracted resource collection you mentioned; are you envisioning actual interaction with the atmos system on the planet or something more remote from space nearby?

I think it might be simpler than it seems, but I wasn’t intending this post to try and shoehorn the gas exos into the existing PR. I personally enjoy very dangerous planets and I could see a zlevel that is basically in the clouds, with floating platforms for extraction, and as long as you are wearing a jet pack you’re fine. Things like lava already check for flying vars, so I imagine it could function like the abyss tiles. I don’t think it would be especially jank. I imagine that, especially in NBT2, resource extraction will be an important part of a ship being self sufficient. I love the lone spacer ship’s atmos collector, and we’ve done similar setups retrofitting the Intrepid.

With the removal of certain gas isotopes from the atmospheres of existing exoplanets (https://github.com/Aurorastation/Aurora.3/pull/22509), we should add gas planets to allow for the extraction of these resources. Hurdles to overcome: - How to map the “ground”: my first idea would be that the general turf would be open air, like the rooftop holoprojection. It would need to be decided how dangerous these planets would be, since I would assume falling into the skies would be a quick descent into the high pressure gasses and death. You could try to overcome that with mandatory jet packs on these missions, but I’m open to ideas if you want to make it safer. - I’m not sure if the gas isotopes were removed because of planetary fires or they were not balanced or lore accurate or something. If they are meant to be no longer an option for resource extraction, let me know. I'm sure I'm missing some things so feedback is welcome.

As a Vampire, I want to be less reliant on blood for progression. I think the changeling mode greatly benefited from making evolutions available without having to absorb DNA. It made the mode less kill-dependent, and gave it greater flexibility. Much like the changeling horror form, I think some Vamp abilities need to be gated behind sucking someone's blood, but requiring the same progression over and over makes the mode stale. Likely thralling and turning new vampires would still require the suck mechanic.

My first thoughts are that the broadcast interrupts whatever the holopad is being used for but, like normal operation, you can turn it off if you don’t want to hear it or need it immediately for something else.

My first thought was that this would be a tweak to the existing holopad system where someone with command access could activate a holopad connection to all receiving pads across the ship, with the projection being just the character who initiates it. Basically another way to keep the crew informed, but it has some advantages over the standard announcement system. For situations where a longer, more nuanced announcement is needed, this allows you to break up your speech into multiple typed sentences and prevents a common occurrence where some command member isn't responding on comms and is just staring at the command console until they're done typing up their essay. It also lets you pivot if more information is needed or if someone asks a question over comms. It gives the crew a visual of the speaker, which for command might not be that exciting, but this could also be something event characters or antags can also tap into, which allows more of the crew to have eyes on and converse with persons that might normally only be relegated to command interaction. It has a more cinematic feel. Your mileage may vary. I'm not suggesting a replacement of the announcement system or in-person meetings, but more options are better, IMO.

This is approved.

I often find myself writing during conversations, whether this is an interview in an office, me taking notes on a notepad, or just me trying to make sure some paperwork is properly formatted. I feel like it sometimes causes interactions to drag. I've also been on the other end, waiting to see when an extended pause in a conversation is going to end, trying to keep the flow going. Sometimes I also just like looking busy in my office, but it's difficult to convey that I'm sitting in my chair looking at my laptop and not just fluoride staring at the wall. An indicator similar to the speech bubble that appears when you're typing would help telegraph things like this. I know not everyone uses the speech indicator so it would probably be good to make it toggle-able in similar fashion. I can't say I'm familiar with the code that tracks when you've finished typing, or closing your paper windows. I know that there is something that triggers the pen on paper sounds when you finish writing and close the dialogue box, so maybe that's a good place to attach the indicator.

Hey, thanks for applying! I'll be reaching out soon to schedule an interview.

Major Hacking Incident Against Hegemony Mouthpiece Wild stuff going on in the "Karszekani" this last week folks. I didn't even know Unathi knew how to hack without a huge cleaver, although I guess it's better than using nukes again. Not that what these weirdos posted was much better than the normal draconian garbage that comes out of that area of the badlands. Honor this. Ancestors that. It's more cult craziness, just from the other side of the spear. A unathi I know says that this returned scion business is pretty popular in some regions but most of it is just people with no hope clinging to the ghosts of the past. Anyway, looks like the hack's been reversed but nothing that's put on the extranet can really be deleted. We've got our own little backup that we'll keep posted for posterity. No reason to let the Hegemony live it down, right?

Removing the Stain of Dishonor Execution of Captured Terrorist Scheduled This article has been restored to its original state. Sinta Articles deeply apologizes for the breach which resulted in such treasonous, poisonous slander. Every effort is being made to ensure this does not repeat. In a brief, yet charged announcement this morning, High Speaker Sarnac made known that Karszekani taakul under Hizoni Izweski have completed the questioning and interrogation of the lone surviving attacker of the Szekziri envoy shuttle. It was also announced that the full investigation continues and that they had uncovered sufficient information to pursue the matter to its conclusion and root out every last traitor responsible for the brazen affront on Izweski honor and the safety of the Karszekan’s allies. The individual was identified as a Vharzkani of low birth with no known residence beyond the wastes and outskirts surrounding Darakath and Sahltyr. No name or clan was forthcoming. The High Speaker states that the prisoner has been branded guwan for their dishonor and an execution by beheading has been scheduled in two days’ time. ( A small, attached clip shows several sinta on a raised stage in a square near the entrance to Izweski Keep. A slender, golden-yellow scaled sinta in Izweski colors is at the front addressing a large crowd. The video starts midway through the speech. ) The High Speaker declined to answer further questions at this time but other sources close to the Spymaster and her office were able to shed some light on the origin and aims of this attack stating, “In regard to motive, we appear to be dealing with a group deluded with a madness of the coalition’s resurgence. I will not waste my breath repeating the myths they cling to of the fallen kingdom. Our primary concern is their fanaticism which, while zealous, will not protect them from the Karszekan’s justice.” Further Reading Nikziran Underway: How Various Regions Are Affected Karszekani Navy Reviews Proposal for New Scout Craft Hopeful Reports from the Lords Verdant

A Question of Taste Tempers Flare Amid Darakath Reconstruction Woes Veshah T'vurzt - Vharzkan Correspondent Darakath; a city familiar with strife and turmoil. Even before the war, the inhabitants were known for their fierce pride and tradition. It remains a defining characteristic of Vharzki culture, and it carries its people through every daily crisis to see the next morning. Unfortunately, this unyielding nature has come into conflict with local authorities more than once, and developments over the past two weeks have done nothing but entrench both sides in fixed positions. Eight days ago, Lord Gwarlza announced that, despite instances of vandalism and theft affecting materials and equipment, reconstruction efforts within the city were progressing slowly but surely. He continued, saying that as they advance past the initial, functional stages of rebuilding, greater care should now be given to final outward appearances and the glory of Darakath’s architecture moving forward. To this end, beautification efforts have been announced for sections of the city that have progressed beyond simple utility. Initial responses to this announcement were mixed, though many residents expressed great joy at the promise of returning the city to its former glory. Darakath architecture was considered one of the heights of sinta craftsmanship in years prior to the war, with vast and ornate reliefs, sculptures, complex rooflines and ornamentation. Unfortunately, a large majority of works in the old aesthetic, aptly named ‘broken traditional’, contain iconography and likenesses intrinsically linked with the infamous coalition. Other images and symbols harken to Th’akhist beliefs and veneration. Lord Gwarlza has made it clear that they will be scouring Darakath of any remaining ‘broken traditional’ works as part of the renovations. No expense is being spared in the commission of artists, both local and afield, to define a new period of art for the city. Sinta who stand against the change have gone on record stating the removal of ‘broken traditional’ pieces is an affront to their ancestors and erasure of their history, while some Th’ahkist practitioners fear the reprisal of ancestor spirits and the heretical “Most Honored” as symbols of veneration are removed. These concerns have widely been dismissed by city leadership however, citing pre-existing law that prohibits possession of old kingdom paraphernalia. This has done little to stem the outcry as dissidents claim that such an interpretation of the law is too broad and a distinction should be made between wartime emblems and icons of cultural significance. So great is their fanaticism that a number of Kaa have made camp in a plaza outside of the municipal utility headquarters where a statue dedicated to Kolere Koss yet stands. At time of writing, five days have elapsed since the beginning of their vigil and a handful have even shackled themselves to the piece to prevent its demolition. Concerns have also been raised regarding the logistics and provisioning for this endeavour. A number of city wards, such as the administrative districts surrounding the Gwarlza clan compound, government buildings, and key infrastructure have been repaired and functional for some time, while other areas have been scheduled for work to begin based on priority assigned by city leadership. There are grumblings that sections of the city have been purposefully neglected and an undercurrent of support exists for propositions that postpone the beautification until after the city is rebuilt in its entirety. At the same time, Xsain workers from the Klax hive have begun to arrive in conjunction with an announcement that an agreement with Ta'Akaix'Xurezte K'lax, of Zkaii’s brood, has been reached after negotiations were facilitated via Hephaestus Industries. The inclusion of alien and corporate influence in the project has been decried by a number of influential Kaa throughout the city. Regardless, Lord Gwarlza shows no inclination to reverse course stating that the resources of Hephaestus Industries partnered with the workers of the Klax Hive will catapult Darakath into greater prominence and return it to its rightful place on the world stage. Only time will prove the wisdom of these new strategies. We pray for the recovery of Darakath and the success of its people in their endeavors. As always, we will keep you updated as more information is made available. Further Reading: Wasted Blood: The Story of a Nobleborn Guwandi Trial of Captured Terrorist Concludes, Execution Scheduled The Uezwik Incident - What We Learned and What Can Still Be Achieved

Being a minor criminal isn't against server rules, but the key is that you have to do it in such a way as that it flies under the radar. One of the key considerations on the current ship is that you have to remain employable. There are a lot of other characters who will be willing to keep your secrets so long as they get something out of it without putting their neck out too much. Then again, there are other characters who will snitch on you and get you under the scrutiny of the security department or CCIA. Subtlety and patience will be the name of the game, and you'll have to take time to create relationships you can trust in to include in your schemes. Consider also running a traitor antag with a low intensity gimmick. You can run more clearly illegal activities to boost your character's overall vibe and practice approaching potential partners or co-criminals from the safety of non-canonicity. Using exploitables can also help you flag potential allies, even if you don't use the information directly. Off the top of my head I can remember a number of minor criminals in recent history. There has been an IC drug smuggling operation that eventually came to light in a CCIA investigation. Secret shells are a thing, but difficult to pull off. Illicit relationships between IPCs and Dominians ( though on this your mileage may vary ). There's probably many others that I forget or am not aware of. As with everything though, if you have questions or concerns that something might be against server rules, there's nothing wrong with ahelping first.

Joint Operation Culminates in Heartland Raids Investigation Into Origin of Weapons Used in Shuttle Attack Makes Decisive Progress Yuask Vilissn - Intelligence Correspondent The morning peace of several Izweskan holdings was broken earlier today as taakul, and other agents under the direction of Symaster Hizoni Izweski, conducted raids against a number of dwellings and industrial buildings speckled throughout remote areas and towns in the lands surrounding Skalamar. Aiding them in their efforts were a handful of veteran assault teams hand-picked by the Lord’s Claws to ensure victory. All of the targets chosen are reported to have been suspected of either direct participation in the attack on the Szekziri shuttle four weeks ago, or harboring their accomplices and co-conspirators. Citing the ongoing investigation as sensitive and classified, the Spymaster’s office has provided few details, but states that their collaborative operation with their military counterparts has been a verifiable success. More information has been promised once the need for secrecy has passed, but eye-witness reports were able to describe the swift and decisive strikes. (The following interview is only in audio form, either due to a lack of video equipment onsite or, as is sometimes done, at the request of the interviewee; in either event the reason is not stated. The sinta speaks in a clear, treble tone with lower caste accent but using distinct noble diction and pattern. Written and dubbed translations are available with the broadcast.) By most accounts, the skirmishes that occurred were short and uncompromising, lasting only minutes. There is also a clear trend of the traitors being recognized as having spent time in the wastes but to what degree is uncertain. It also appears that few were captured alive though it is assumed this is more due to preservation of their treacherous cabal than to any form of true honor. However, at least one suspect was confirmed by multiple witnesses as being taken into custody alive, though it was also reported that he was raving traditionalist propaganda and myth so it’s unclear how much this might help the investigation. We expect to have an update on this story soon as the taakul work to analyze the evidence acquired and seek out the source of this corruption. As of yet, no group has come forward to claim responsibility for the shuttle attack leaving many to wonder - is this still more terrorism from existing organizations such as the Champions of Moghes or are new threats are on the rise? Further Reading: Gakal'zaal; should we re-take it? A recent poll shows surprising results. Medical Study on Ouerea Proposed, Shamans Claim Heresy Remaining Szekzir Delegation Returns Home via Orbital Transit

Unrest in Darakath and Wider Vharzkan Region Proposed Implementation of Nikziran Rankles Local Sensibilities Veshah T'vurzt - Vharzkan Correspondent Situated in some of the lands hardest hit by the consequences of the war, the cities of Darakath, Sahltyr, and Janvir, have historically held an undercurrent of dissatisfaction and malcontent beyond what would be expected due to the pressures of rationing and the refugee crisis. Pre-war sentiment and even some lingering, treasonous loyalties to the fallen coalition have left the area continuously vulnerable to dissidents and agitators working to slow any form of progress under the guise of continuing a fight long since ended. Over the last two months, a spike of disgruntlement and unrest has been felt in what was once the Vharzk steppes, resulting in an increase of attacks on guardsmen, raids on provision stockpiles, and vandalism of Izweski and Karszekani standards and iconography. While reports of these crimes exist across the area, the majority of these events are located within the still-recovering city of Darakath. These incidents are often accompanied with anti-Nikziran sentiment and messages decrying the movement as a simple power grab. Since the declaration of intent to standardize and regulate the structure of nobility and titles within the Karszekani, as well as institute new democratic systems of succession, the drafting and codifying of this new structure has occupied a large portion of the existing nobility’s time in all corners of the realm. No official release has been given but it is apparent that Karszekan Izweski intends to build a strong, stable framework that will apply to all vassals though many details of how it will be implemented in a given region will be the purview of local Lords, or Kreshan. One of the principal considerations left to the Kreshan of a given area is determining qualifications and restrictions for those seeking election. When speaking with local sinta, it becomes clear that guidelines for these restrictions implemented by the current Lord of Darakath, Razkara Gwarlza, has become the primary source of dissatisfaction. (The following interview is video recorded with a Kaa, or fisher, clearly employed in some type of construction taking rest in the midday. They speak in a rough sinta'azaziba dialect but captioned and dubbed translations are available with the broadcast.) So far, no official word from Skalamar has been given regarding the state of the region or the legitimacy of the restrictions currently affecting its democratic elections. As always we will continue to bring you updates as they become available. Further Reading: Skalamar authorities report progress in tracking the origins of illicit weaponry deployed in recent shuttle attack. A question of taste; rebuilding efforts in Darakath stunted as arguments arise over old vs. modern architecture. Contact? A re-evaluation on how much of an impact alien influence truly had on the beginning of The Unification War.

To be clear, this isn’t a suggestion to make everything have a smell or have functional noses. This is just about the corpses giving local narrates irrespective of whether they can be seen.

Basically, make corpses smell. I’d have to look at the code but I know monkeys and mice have a decomposition timer before they start to show signs. I’m not sure if human/alien mobs do. Some things to consider: - The smell local narrate is not given if the body is in a morgue tray, fridge, or extremely cold atmosphere. -Possible escalating messages of smell based on Time of Death. Something that a trained detective might be able to clock before doing the full autopsy, but allow them to make decisions in the field. - Could lead to being able to store bodies in more hidden locations but still allow for the smell to give it away.