We shall launch all rockets towards the northern barbarians and rid the world of them.

That should gather enough favor for mroe budget.

>>24043889
We shall have a cup of calming tea with Amelia, Professora Minerva, and Colonel Smith. Our butler shall assemble our notes and budget projections.

You have already expended your weekly budget and have no time to build any more rockets before the hearing, but here is your current inventory.

One Mk Mk2
>Type: Probe, Mass 1, Reliability 4/3
Mk3 Blueprints
>Type: First stage, Mass 1, Reliability 5/4
Camera Module Blueprints
>Type: Mapper, Mass 1, Reliability 16/12.
Guidance module Blueprints
>Type: unmanned control system, Mass 1, Reliability 16/12
Radolight beacon Blueprints
>Type: Waylight, Mass 1, Reliability 18/14

You also have one luck point.

>>24043955
This. Convince them that it's for military purposes, and they'll give you more money than you know what to do with.

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Well, the reason the space program in real life got so much funding was a need to out-do the soviets.
Quick, what sort of Boogiemen can we Invoke?!
Pic related, as this is the first I've ever heard of this quest.

>>24043986
>>24043955
You really don't know what's going on, do you?
You should keep silent until you read at least what happened in the most recent thread.

>>24043993
>>24043955
Welp, while I was derping around in search of a picture, someone else answered my question.

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>>24043993

The huns, our northern techno-viking nazi neighbors would do nicely. They've been trying to conquer the known world for some time.

>>24043993
Look, I know you're probably honestly trying, and that it's a sincere effort.
But what you suggest is the exact thing that will sink our chances with the Appropriations Committee.
As in, at best, we keep our current minuscule budget, and at worst it gets slashed.

>>24044053
Sweet. Put up some Spy-Sattalites, see what the bastards are up to.

It's worth noting that doing anything overtly hostile to the Huns would probably start World War 2, which wouldn't be good for our prospects.

>>24044104
Hence, "spy satalites". As opposed to "rods from god"
If you have a better idea, I'm all ears

>>24044122
Spy satellites do not exist. We haven't even gotten a camera module fully ready yet, let alone any way to put a video camera up in orbit, or cameras good enough to be part of a spy satellite.

>>24044148
Well. Shit.
Invoke the spirit of One-upmanship?

>>24043958
>>24043889
In addition to the calming cup of tea, we shall ask the Prime Minister how we should comport ourselves in front of the Committee; as an experienced statesman, he surely has some suggestions on how we should carry ourselves.

>>24044195
Thats good and all, but what the fuck are we going to do when we give our speach?

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>>24043955
The armistice treaty specifically forbids that. Current strategic doctrine is to wait for them to break the treaty (as those dishonorable Huns are sure to do) and then eradicate them with radio-reactive fire.

>>24043993
The Northern kingdom (colloquially known as the Huns, an insult of unknown linguistic origin) are a bunch of jackbooted thugs who have been invading consistantly for hundreds of years. In fact the royal family is descended from a group of them that became more civilized after, ahem, 'interbrmarrying' with the locals. In the last war the Rocket Corps was able to fight them back by deploying Dame Palas Minerva's (You call her Professora) radio reaction warhead.
This ended the war, but the sheer power of the weapon scared the general populace. The Professora was granted knighthood and became your governess, but she was shunned and unable to obtain her dream of using radio-reactive power for peaceful means.
The average citizen is glad the war is over, and dosn't want to think about the possibility of it happening again. Particularly not if the huns somehow got there own Radio-reaction weapons.

>>24043958
Over a nice cup of tea (or coffee in the case of the Colonel) the budget is explained. Right now you have 10 thousand crowns weekly after upkeep to research and build new rockets. If the budget goes through this could be as high as 40, but if you are going to build that base in the eastern isles, a good portion of that would be taken up by logistical issues. If you do a really good job you might be able to secure a budge that will give you 40 thousand for RnD and the equatorial launch site, but you'll have to convince the chairman, and he's got some kind of bone to pick with the military.

>>24044195
The Prime minister laughs "Far be it from me to tell a princess how to behave herself."

>>24044249
As already laid out in the last thread, it's to go over the civilian applications of satellites and orbital rocketry, and only lightly touch upon the military applications.
We already know each of the members of the Committee, having talked to them, save the Chairman, who we are planning on sidelining as he is intractable.

>>24044263
"Oh, but we insist, Prime Minister. We are but a princess, unused to speaking before a Committee. And we have heard such things about the Chairman; we would prefer to be prepared."

>>24044308
Screw it, I, er, WE cannot think of anything better.

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>>24044308

The military applications are pretty obvious. The damn things explode even when we don't want them to, so we shouldn't need more than a wink wink nudge nudge on that front.

As for humanitarian applications... do we know of any? Space flight is many things but practical isn't one of them.

>>24044189
You did kind of sort of dare the Suthern president's daughter to create her own space program and race you to the moon... as a sort of private joke. Who knows if she'll take you up on it, She's back in school now and although you are still writing to each other, she's graduating soon and has a lot of studies to keep up on.

>>24044391
Peaceful applications would involve studying the weather, better navigation, better wireless communications, and better understanding of the celestial spheres to name a few.
You can also use them to keep an eye on the Foe Stars, but you probably shouldn't say that out loud.

>>24044391
Global radio communications and navigational satellites. Improved maps. Weather research. Micro-gravity research.

>>24044454
I say yet again. Write up a description of the Faux Stars, giving their location, current trajectory, and your interpretation of them as alien explorers. Include your overall plans, being to create vessels capable of reaching them both for defence and to engage in diplomacy.
Then, tell Mother that we absolutely need to tell the government about this. It's vital for our survival we're prepared for them, and while the public needn't know about them until we've learned more, we do need to keep the government informed so we have the resources to defend Earth.

Now, do the Huns want to TAKE OVA DIE WELT, or are they just millitaristic? If the latter, they could make good space marines, while we supply the space ships

>>24044588
We shall do no such thing until we have incontrovertible photographic proof from orbit of the existence of such things.
We only saw what could have been a comet, and have no evidence to back up our claims.
Location? Trajectory? We have none of these things.

>>24044588
The Huns believe in the Will to Power, and that whoever is the strongest should rule the world with an iron fist and crush all who oppose them.

As for the Faux/Foe stars, you did kind of give your royal word to keep them a secret, at least for now.
Are you ready to give your speech? It's time.

>>24044638
Yes, we shall give our speech.

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>>24044588

At this point there's too many risks involved with outing the stars. We would lose the support of the astrologers, sow widespread panic if we can prove it, and potentially undermine our credibility if we can't.

>>24044638

Begin speechifying

>>24044637
Hmm, you're right. We ought to set people to finding them.
>>24044638
I know. That's why I said we talk to Mother, to set up a council meeting so we can discuss this.
The writeup is just insurance. We trust mother, but we don't necessarily trust the Royal Astrologers.

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When it is time step through the big oak doors and an especially pompous voice announces. "The court shall now recognize Her Royal Highness, Princess Lydia Tannhäuser Von Cygnus Gates the third, Executive Director of the Royal Rocketry Corps of Midland.

Before you stand the committee, with the chairman sitting dead center. Flanking him are Lady Ethelstan and Lord Savard, with Lord Lord Bartly and General Clay on the outside. Lord Savard looks kind of nervous to be sitting between the general and the chairman.

>>24044829
>>24044638
We shall step forward confidently, and look directly at each member as we speak.
"Honored members of the Appropriations Committee, we are before you today to argue our case; that additional funding be released to the Royal Rocketry Corps for the acquisition, construction, and maintenance of an orbital launch facility in the Eastern Islands, and for the continued research and engineering of rockets and satellites.
"Already, our scientists are filled with ideas of how to take advantage of this new frontier, and the possibilities that it presents.
"Global radio coverage, so that all the world can hear our songs. Orbital navigation beacons, so that our sailors and aviators will always be able to know where they are. Cameras which can look down upon the Earth and better map our world.
"We can also now experiment and observe the weather as never before, to contribute to a better understanding of our climate. Farmers would then be able to know what the weather may be like far in advance, providing assistance with crop growth and harvesting.
"And finally, the great unknown of space itself. The mystery of a place where there is no gravity. We know not what wonders may be discovered there, only that it shall push the bounds of science further than ever before."

>>24044902
The chairman waits for an agonizingly long time before speaking. "yes, but why can't you make due with your current facilities? I see your proposal calls for the establishment of an entirely new colony in the eastern isles?"

>>24045052
"The current facilities do not have the space required for the larger rockets required to place the larger modules required to perform significant tasks.
"Also, its current location is not optimal for placing an object into orbit. Being as close to the equator as possible provides the least travel required and is the best location for a launch facility. This maximizes amount of distance traveled for amount of fuel burned.
"These are the two main reasons that we require a new facility in the eastern isles."

We shall provide the charts showcasing the difference between our current trajectory path versus one if it was launched from the equator.

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>>24045052
>>24045140

"Fort Adler was a sufficient proving ground for early designs, but in order to launch any payloads of military or scientific import we will require larger facilities."

>>24044391
>Spaceflight
>not practical

Do you even NASA?

Orbital experiments have taught us about:

-The effects of microgravity on healing and human biology. This has led to a number of applications in therapy
-Likewise, there are useful applications for enabling humans to survive in other hazardous locations, like deep underwater, or things like decompression sickness which can happen on earth
-Hydroponics and growing plants non-Earth conditions. This is vital pure research for terraforming or even sky hydroponics labs
-Similarly, the lifecycles of many creatures in space, all useful for any space colonization initiatives
-Understanding the composition and makeup of the planets near us and what resources they hold
-Weather forecasting and being able to get a big picture of what's happening on the globe
-Understanding the moon, stars, constellations, other celestial bodies unhindered by the atmosphere - these have important effects on navigation, the tides, demarcating seasons, and so forth.
-Studying radiation - health effects, effects on other things, other applications
-Finally, many technologies developed to enable spaceflight have eventually found their way to the computer market. More portable computers, GPS, LEDs - see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NASA_spin-off_technologies

>>24045189

It's true space-flight isn't exactly an immediately applicable technology, but it falls within the zone of what you call "pure research". It's a step on the tech tree that allows further practical applications.

>>24045189
WE know that, but the character is in a society where they JUST put something into orbit, and radio is still considered a new-fangled technology of the young.

>>24045140
>>24045167

The chairman eyes the charts like a schoolteacher grading a test. "Ahh... I see. So you require both more of the kingdom's money, and a colonial foothold. And I supose after this you will return to ask for even more? Am I right?"

Before you can answer however, Lady Ethelstan interrupts. "your highness, could you explain the civilian advantages of an equatorial launch site?"

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>>24045292

Scientific equipment, the type that would allow us to map the earth and study weather patterns from outside the atmosphere, require much greater thrust and therefor larger rockets launched from larger facilities. The potential breakthroughs for geography, farming, communication, and a myriad of other fields are inestimable. But only if we can get the proper tools into orbit first.

Oh and throw in something about better understanding the blessed music of the spheres for our religiously minded friends.

>>24045484
We'll build a space telescope so that we can better see the stars. Find out what's going on in the future and such.

Rolled 90

>>24045292

Safety from any and all possible rocket failures as well as if ever the base came under attack it would be far from civilians unlike most of the factories during the war.(the kingdom did have factories near civilian homes just like in WW2 right?)

With a new equatorial colony we could also start a boom for the people to see these Islands. Think of all the life that may be uncovered by curious scientist on these lands as well.

Tourism will boom as well with people flocking to these new islands for adventure and a never ending summer.(I hope thats enough to help justify an island colony. Might also want to bring up the point that the colony could help supply and base the military fleet if it ever travels there.)

>>24045292
"Of course.
"From these budget projections, we can safely say that a minimum of [percentage of total budget] will go into the shipping sector boosting employment in the merchant marine and the shipping industry.
"As well, the creation of a support town for the facility in which to house its workers and researchers will cost [some amount], but is expected to create a new market which can lead to increased economic activity in the markets of Midland.
"As these projections show, there are significant economic arguments for the creation of a new launch facility.
"Other advantages to an equatorial facility are that by making it easier to achieve orbit, we may begin scientific experiments in weather patterns and in the creation of a global radio network much faster.
"And finally, construction in such an environment will allow us to test and develop better construction techniques and technologies, which may come back to our factories and workshops here in Midland."

>>24045484
You're forgetting the big one. Suborbital rocket flights can be used for rocket post, or fast transport. It's much more effective than pneumatic tubes, as you don't need to construct a tube to your destination

"I'm sure the navy has been asking for an overseas base in the eastern isles for some time now, have they not?" Ethelstan asks Clay slyly, her question soaring over The Chairman and Lord Savard. The general nods, the chairman Tisks, and Savard is sweating visibly. "In any case," Ethelstan adds. "I believe we shall retire for lunchon, unless her highness has any further remarks?"

(OOC I need to get dinner, I'll be back though)

>>24045677
We do not.
Perhaps we should speak with Lord Savard during the break? He appears to be unwell, and we may be able to find out if he will be voting favorably for us. Lady Ethelstan appears to have been satisfied with our potential civilian applications enough that she will support us.

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>>24045677

I gotta sleep. I'll leave closing statements to somebody who's still mostly awake.

>>24045677
We shall provide closing statements.
"We of Midland have been at the forefront of industry and science, and it has brought us prestige and wealth. Space provides opportunities and new frontiers, not only for us, but for all the world, and we can bring these wonders to them."

>>24045708
You are able to track down Lord Savard in a Cafe outside the parlement hall. He dosn't recognize your voice and answers hastily without looking to see how you are. "Yes what is it?"

>>24046467
Hello lord Sovard, are you by chance ill or feeling strange? I just wanted to talk to you and see if you were alright.

>>24046598
The politician looks up suddenly and almost jumps out of his chair. "Oh I'm so sorry Your Highness! I didn't realize you were there!" He seems to be even more nervous now that you are here.

>>24046736
Calm down and have lunch. But seriously what is up sir are you ok or is there something I should know about? If its a surprise about the budget then please tell me.(we shall say with big puppy dog eyes)

(Ooc I also think that an attack or something is about to happen.)

>>24046821
"I'll tell you what is 'up' your highness, 'up' is where I have had it with those /Hellions/" He stammers this out. "Forgive me your highness. I should not speak this way in front of a lady, nor should I say such things of my colleagues."

We should call the chairman a pedantic termagant

>>24046915

Please if you must leave help me come up with a reason to report or at least let it be known you are leaving. I'm sorry to have wasted your time and hope you reach home safety.

(This is bad, trying to cajole him to stay might end worse than wishing him well. Hopefully our sincere tone will have him doubling back to aid us.)

>>24046976
Oh no I can't leave, I may be of noble blood but my house is penniless, this station is all I have. Ohh but they're always at my back. 'Oh Savard, be sure to cast your vote in the next session,' 'Savard my boy! Remember who's side it is you are on.'" He mimics both men's voices. "And Lady Ethelstan, she's even worse than both of them, she just lets them get away with it. I think she enjoys watching them go at it, the very embodiment of Ishtar herself! Well I'll tell you one thing Your highness, I surely don't! My poor heart can't take this kind of abuse!" He pauses to catch his breath and sponge sweat off his brow with his napkin. "Once again I apologies your highness, I should be more respectful of my superiors."

>>24047147
I'm sorry god mother. I was just trying to polite guilt the man into helping us maybe. If you want why not combine both post.

>>24047202
I have, and it's my fault, I just got caught off guard, I was able to combine them.

>>24047188
Would your station allow you to take control of a colony if founded. It would help by taking care of your coffers and drag you away from this horrible circus show.

(Remember all innocent and sincere as to help the man not make him more suspicious.)

>>24047268
"...what are you proposing your highness? Are you trying to offer me a position in your venture in the eastern isles?"

>>24047282
"Do you want one?"

>>24047282

I'm offering everyone something from this, for the general greater military down the line, for the lady improvements in the common people's lives. For you a vacation and job so that you might never have to deal with something I can see you very much do not enjoy.

>>24047284
>>24047342
"White sand beaches, lovely island maidens, and as far away from those fiends in Parliament as possible?" Savard mutters to himself out loud.

>>24047366
And more exotic fruit and animals than you could ever eat good sir!

(Smile girl, you almost have him completely).

Oh do you fish, I heard from the sailors inthe region that the fish are as long as I am tall!

>>24047432
* its supposed to be in the not inthe stupid phone screen.

>>24047432
"I supose I could learn..." Lord Savard muses out loud some more. "Oh but back to business. If you can get me away from here, I'll gladly back your venture, your highness."

And just as he says this the Bell begins to toll, signaling the end of the recess. "Forgive me, I must return. I suppose you as well your highness."

>>24047366
"Exactly...Lord Governor."

>>24047572
Well back to business. Hopefully lord Savard takes some initiative and ask to talk about what the colony can or could offer in simple terms for the people forced to be stationed there.

When Parliament returns to session, the politicians murmur amongst themselves for a great while while you just sit there waiting. Eventually a vote is called.

Lord Bartly votes to extend the budget and approves the establishment of the colony; Lady Ethelstan approves the establishment of the colony, but will only sign off on half the budget; Lord Savard approves the colony and votes for the full budget, much to the surprise of everyone except you; General Clay slaps him on the back heartily and seconds Savard's vote.
Lastly it comes down to the chairman. The Chairman grudgingly approves the colony, but vetoes the full budget. Because Lady Ethelstan, unconvinced that the new base will be purely scientific, was unwilling to pledge her support for the full budget. You will only be getting 30 points worth of RnD per turn instead of the full 40. This is still much better than what you have now.

You have also earned a new follower, and an extra Luck point. And now It is my bedtime. Good night.

>>24048413
Good night, godmother.

>>24048413

Woo hoo! Sorry for missing it, back to work for me.

Navy\RRC base is just like a Navy base, only it can explode form it's own rockets rather then from enemy ones.

Sham I missed this one, but if it is not too late to throw in my two pence...

Since we will be establishing a new colony in the eastern isles, we do not need to create a joint facility. The infrastructure that we create there can be added to by any of the other groups that wish to be a part of it. The navy can establish their own base there so that there is somewhere for them to repair and re-arm their ships, the Air Force can have a base to expand their effective area of operations...
Just these two groups will add considerably to the colonial potential but also encourage larger starting numbers, meaning greater initial man-power than if this was a solo venture.

To this end, I suggest bringing up the subject with the command of the navy and air force, maybe the army as well if they also want to establish a presence in the eastern isles...