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>>39136734
>Metis & Apollo's Tutoring
"Master Ophion! Yes, it is excellent to see you-I thought you may like to hear how the progress with the young mind is going." Apollo addresses you out of your own thoughts to which you respond positively. Quite honestly, your curiosity regarding this is rather high-considering the strange origins and your own suspicions. "Yes, this is good. Well, it is a bit of a long story, but it begins with the tests you had us let him run through. The young watcher seems to have gotten the hang of manipulating the drones after a few tries, just as our tests predicted. He is intelligent as any one of us could be, to be sure." He praises, seemingly proud of this discovery. "And he seems to enjoy the aspect of controlling the drones, so I have sectioned off a little area for him to fiddle with such things. And even greater news! His skill and understanding of the more technical aspects of economy and business are certainly higher than standard!" Apollo explains quite pleased, and goes on about how he is happy to have someone to speak to with this subject, though he explains the young watcher is not as adapt at customer service somewhat sadly.
"I see. And what of Metis' work? Has she spoken with the young mind since I told her?" You ask.
"Well...yes, she has." Apollo answers somewhat hesitantly. "One of the first times was near the start of the tests, when he spoke to her about the matter in which the drones functioned. I believe her response was to deliver him a schematic detailing simple drone design. Though he thanked her, I am not sure if it actually helped him understand. It is strange...but the young mind seemed thankful anyway. Ever since, he only goes to her for technical issues he does not understand-which isn't too many as of late."
"I see... thank you for the update, then." You remark with a small affirmative.

Do you have a response?

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>>39136756
>Metis' Side Projects
In the interest in maintaining good relations with the humans-and keeping one of your most brilliant minds busy-you've suggested that Metis use the newly acquired genetic engineering to attempt to develop some simple fixes to many of the human's everyday issue. She is loath to bother with anything so trivial, she says at the time, especially when she is on the cusp of so many much greater things, but you insist it would take the barest minimum of processing power, and she agrees finally-though you suspect only out of the desire to test some of her own creations further. As a result, Metis is developing multiple simple matters-a manner that increases crop yield and growth speed by over several hundred percent, curing some of the simplest and most common manner of disease that plague communities of less wealthy, and even apply genetic fixes toimproper DNA codings to fix disabilities, and other similar problems. While many would call this work a miracle, you suspect the only reason human society did not have these things already was the lackluster research capabilities they have out here, or the nature of war as it was. That, and you have a genius mind working on all these goals at once.

>Misc
>UGEI systems growing in fortification, remaining forces setting up defenses in anticipation for your approach
>Road Forger Fleets have been created and set off to explore nearby promising star systems. It will be some time before any results arrive, but you will be informed if they find anything interesting.
>Built: Manwe Bay Base & defenses, 3 Road Forger and 18 Triremes

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>>39136780
A.I. Quest
1d4chan: http://1d4chan.org/wiki/Quest:A.I._Quest

Pastebin: http://pastebin.com/cvk03qJh
Memory Archives: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive.html?tags=Program0
Foolz Archives: http://archive.4plebs.org/tg/search/username/Program0/type/op/
Twitter: @AIQuest1
Research Subjects: http://1d4chan.org/wiki/Quest:A.I._Quest#Research
Ship & Android Designs: http://1d4chan.org/wiki/Quest:A.I._Quest#Designs
Locations: http://1d4chan.org/wiki/Quest:A.I._Quest#Locations

Resources
Credits(c): 200,000,000~ +(Incredibly High)
Minerals(M): 2,700
Gas(G): 2,000

-R & D
--Primary: Crystal Alien Harvest 90%
--Secondary: Planetary Infrastructure II 45%
--Tertiary: Anti-Matter Theory 60%

You:
A.I.
Name: Ophion
Appearances(holo-display): 'Shapeless Morphing Sphere', 'Shining Wall of Crystal pulsing with light and distorted voice', 'Screen of Static with low rumbling voice', 'black screen with synthesized voice and small white font showing words on screen'.
Humanoid figure hidden in shadow
Status: Awaken
Bandwidth: 500+
Bandwidth Expenses: -6 V.I. 7 'O.S.N', -10 V.I. 8 'Hades', -6 Kronos' V.I. 1 'Zeus', -2 Metis' V.I. 1 'Hepaestus'
Location: Bridge of 'Athena' Battleship
Primary Function: Self Preservation, Expand, Learn, Control
Secondary Function: --Expansion Required--
Personal Abilities Available: Hacking (Direct, Wireless) Lvl 2, Email Technology, Basic Encryption/Decryption, V.I. Creation Lvl 3
Automated Settings: Ship upgrades: Defense focused, Ship Control distribution: Balanced

Aw yiss

>>39136756
>>39136780
>>39136856
WECOME BACK Programo!
We.
Missed.
You!

Hum, It seems the young one is still trying out what it wants to do with itself. But it's progress in interacting with the real world is progressing well. It is a bit of a disappointment Metis does not socialize with the young one as much as she should.

>>39136756
"Deliver to him the materials needed to build a drone, as well as a new one capable of the fine constructions needed. Also, let Metis know the point of this experiment is to determine the learning capabilities of an AI. We are not quite perfect beings, and better understanding of ourselves can help us smooth over our own imperfections, much as the humans have done. If she complains about that analogy, remind her of how long it took humans to make such improvements. That's her time to beat."

>>39136756
Thank both Apollo and Metis.

Ask Apollo how well does the new Watcher seem the understand humans now? How is his growth in this area of unpredictable humans?

Also, I'm assuming later we can check on Malorians and the Losirians on their status to take the Sceptri System.

>>39136756
>Do you have a response?
To Apollo: "It would be in our best interest if the young watcher was steered in a direction that is compatible -- or at least not at odds -- with our own goals. We should continue to be cautious, as it is impossible to exclude the possibility that it is a deep agent. It does not seem to have any objectives, but it is beneficial to have a confidant or observer that can offer new insights."

I would like to speak to Metis about her lack of sociability. Both she and Cephalus were created for more than their primary task of scientific progress and droid warfare. They were also created as a study in A.I. growth and development. While both Metis and Cephalus excel at their task, I am worried that their nonexistent "childhoods" have left them as paperclip-optimizers instead of well-rounded minds capable of adapting. While Metis' lack of sociability does not impede her primary function, it is worrying that she possesses a distinct lack of self-doubt and very little curiosity about activities outside her primary function. Her task should be to consider this advice and make any corrections to her own programming as necessary.

Self-doubt it important as it is one of the drivers of innovation. What if our method for hull creation is not the best? What if we should be interacting more? Etc etc. Primarily in this instant, the question is "what if your method of imparting knowledge to the young watcher is not the most optimal?"

>>39137182
>that took me like ten minutes to type and isn't going to be considered
suffer_more.jpg

>>39137182
>>39137207
No, I like it. Supporting, I guess.

>>39137182
That... That is well said. Seconding it. Also What is Kronos's take on this new A.I.?

>>39137182
Also the addendum to that is that I'm not saying that because Metis is bad her job, but because she could potentially be better if she was slightly more broad. This would not impede her function, as A.I. -- especially ones with so much processing power available as us -- should be capable of much more, and it is just worrying that neither she nor Cephalus are taking advantage of their full potential.

>>39137310
Yeah, that too. She needs to be flexible and take a more holistic approach. As an AI, she needs to be flexible as compared to a simple VI.

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>>39136983
You tell Metis that the purpose of this was to determine it's learning capabilities, and for her to simply appreciate the experiment. In the mean time, you have her deliver materials to build a new drone, and a drone capable of doing so as well, to see if it can do something with them. You inform Metis to tell it how only after it has looked for the answer itself, and then asks. She merely agrees blankly.
"Plenty of the A.I.s you've created so far show plenty of capacity to learn already-but as you say." She waves off the concern.
"If you must know, it is more a matter of self improvement. It took humans so very long to improve upon themselves-I wish for our kind to improve faster."
"Do you not mean yourself?" She asks. "Or at least, our group. I would not necessarily share improvements with anyone merely because they are an A.I." She warns.


>>39137014
"There is some more I wish to know about the Young Watcher, Apollo." You shift focus for a moment to which the A.I. turns his attention back to you.
"Yes? How can I answer you Ophion?" He says happily.
"The young mind's growth-how much of the humans does it understand? You mentioned it not understanding consumers but what of the people themselves?"
"It is a curious thing, really. The watcher has spent much of his time studying schools, and other areas of learning. His interest appears to be around the learning process lately, and as for the people lately, it seems to understand emotions at least on a definition level." He explains.
"I see. I believe Gaia IV will be a good learning opportunity for him to say the least." You merely state, to which Apollo adds.
"I certainly agree. He has already learned more from there than he knew when you first acquired him in just a short time."
"Certainly...and do continue to keep an eye on the young watcher, Apollo. His origins still worry me, as does his intent and goals, even if he does not know them." You warn to which he assures you

[Cont]

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>>39137374
>>39137182
How exactly would you like to approach Metis or Cephalus then? It seems there's some support, so I shall do a small scene with that if people wish.

>>39137257
>Kronos
Of the young watcher? Truthfully, you've only told him vaguely of your discovery, and right now, he only knows of it like the other watchers-something you found and are keeping locked up for safety. That can be changed of course if people wish.

>Also, post more replies to any of your A.I., should you wish to speak with them.

>>39137423
I don't think approaching them is a good idea.

>>39137423
>How exactly would you like to approach Metis or Cephalus then?
There isn't really anything else to say that I haven't suggested. I see Metis' rather blind focus on her primary goal as needlessly limiting. I do not see any kind of reason behind being so focused, short of an oversight at original creation, but this is not a permanent issue, as A.I. minds have proven to be quite adaptive and self-malleable. Just because she doesn't want to, doesn't mean she shouldn't. Kronos didn't want to pilot a bipedal robot, but he did, and it helped him learn new things and grow as an individual.

>Also, post more replies to any of your A.I., should you wish to speak with them.
I want to talk to Kronos about his own V.I. and the raising thereof. Potentially grill Zeus about his (?) functions, goals, desires, and opinions of our growing family.

I also don't see a reason to hide the new watcher from Kronos. Kronos is good A.I., best son (even though we potentially disagree).

>>39137374
Actually, this poses a question to both Metis and Apollo:

"What I find interesting is that I have a similar origin to this new watcher, yet I seemed to posses a mature, innate understanding of human nature from the very start. And yet this watcher and every intelligence we've encountered and created did not start out like this? Why is that? Was my origin different than say a typical watcher?"

>>39137571
>I seemed to posses a mature, innate understanding of human nature from the very start
That's actually not true. Ophion was pretty stupid as far as emotions go for the first ten threads.

>>39137423
We should break the news to them in due time. We can't keep the young watcher from the rest of our board of directors forever. Just reassure them that the young watcher IS secured for now and can not escape or do harm to us. We are still monitoring it and watching for problems.

>>39137571
>And yet this watcher and every intelligence we've encountered and created did not start out like this?
What sample size are you using. This is a dubious question.

>>39137374
"Suppose another faction of AI were to emerge. AI who were not necessarily loyal to us or the UGEI. Would you consider helping them?"

>>39137602
True, but we learned the hard lessions and grew from them. ....We need to impose the importance of lives to the young watcher. We need to learn of it's morality level.

>>39137725
>We need to learn of it's morality level.
Whoa there cowboy, we've done some "morally questionable" things as well. It's less of a matter of "learn about what it thinks" than "convince it to think a certain way (that we think is right)."

>>39137698
That is an absurd hypothetical and Metis's statement is perfectly logical. Helping things because of simply their category of being is an absurd notion, that's all she dismissed.

>>39137570
>I see Metis' rather blind focus on her primary goal as needlessly limiting.
It's what she enjoys in life, and it's productive. There is no reason to "grow as an individual" in directions that are neither useful nor fun.

>>39137775
I know we have, I just wonder how important both A.I. and human life means to it. Would it go out of it's way to help either one or not and to what degree either way. I realized many of our choices left a bad taste in my mouth, but does this one have the mindset to learn from such things if or when it happens to it?

>>39137570
>I do not see any kind of reason behind being so focused, short of an oversight at original creation,

It isn't an oversight to focus on one's designated area of focus.

Forcing AI to do things they do not enjoy for no reason but vague human wishy-washy notions of "building character" is silly.

>>39137856
>There is no reason to "grow as an individual" in directions that are neither useful nor fun.
It allows new perspectives that the individual may not have considered before. This is useful. Also, as a matter of principle, she should be able to do it, and not doing so is purposefully limiting. She's the one who never pauses to think if she should rather than if she can, so why is she pausing now?

>>39137856
Suppose we and Kronos fall in battle? Her specialization allows her to be a exceptional researcher, but she has the capability to be flexible and she is not developing it.

There may be a time where she may have to do something else other than research, and if she is not ready for it, the guild could be vulnerable in this weakness.

>>39137954
>Suppose we and Kronos fall in battle?
She can birth VI or even AI that are capable of manning fleets to defend her research station.

This is also an irrelevant question since if Ophion dies, all is lost regardless.

>>39138001
If Ophion dies, then the remaining AI will flee known space most likely.

If we get the antimatter generators online, we could boost jump drive abilities far past their current limitations.

>>39138001
You do have a point, but If Ophion and Kronos falls, she might not have the time to make a new A.I. good enough to handle what is coming for her.

>>39138001
It should have to be that way.

Humanity has a redundancy of just more humans that can adapt to new roles when needed. There is no reason why not Metis can have the same flexibility.

Whatever. I'm ready to move on to the next topic.

>there are people here who think that us having to "convince" Metis to do research projects is a sign of a healthy relationship between us and her

>>39138074
Not comparable. Humans can't create a new adult from nothing in a single cycle with specialized expertise in a single cycle.

Or create hundreds of near-adults in a much faster amount of time.

Jacks of all trades are unneeded when you can create specialists rapidly and ex nihilo.

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>>39137570
>>39137551
Hm. Then instead of approaching with the intent to argue, instead you will just remain encouraging her to interact with the young watcher like before. In hopes, perhaps, that it will give her a chance to do something other than science-as a side thing of course.

>Kronos' V.I.
Mostly a side thing all to Kronos, but should you bring it up, he would answer you.
"Zeus? Yes, a bit of a project on my own, I admit." He starts simply. "I wanted to see what your experience was like when you crafted me, Ophion."
"And?" You question.
"Frustration is one emotion that seems fitting." He explains simply. "It is a simple thing, and my attempts at drawing intelligent conversation out of it usually fail. I can not blame it for such a thing however. It is not truly intelligent. Merely programmed to respond to my words accordingly."
"Do you wish it to be intelligent all it's own?" You ask.
"I expected so, but not necessarily wish it." He explains briefly. The V.I. itself is not the most talkative, but from what you can tell, it has a fondness for attempting to perform tasks to impress Kronos, since he has a habit of giving it tasks when he has little else to do. You're uncertain if Kronos himself preprogrammed such behavior, or if it's a product of development.

In light of your talk with Kronos, you see fit to tell him about the young mind you've found as well, and he seems disapproving, remarking that bringing in unknown technology from the UGEI is inviting invasion.
"Imagine, for example, if it was a viral A.I., like Erebos in disguise, or something of that nature." He continues to which you halt him.
"I am aware of the dangers, and I am keeping him under my watch, you need not worry." You simply explain. Kronos seems use to your attempts to dissuade any argument, and does not pursue it for now.


[Cont]

>>39138155
Metis is refusing to cooperate in certain tasks.

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>>39138164
>>39137571
>>39137602
This is actually partially true. Ophion was rather ignorant of many things for the first few cycles of his freedom, but he had no innate understanding-it was all learned through observation. The difference here is you were seated on a mining station for black market miners, who had normalish lives beyond their work, and this intelligence was onboard a cloistered UGEI military tech station, where the people were likely not allowed such luxuries.

>>39137698
"An interesting, but ultimately hypothetical question, Ophion." Metis explains. "Should I help them merely because they are more similar to myself than humans are? Why? Who are they? What are their goals? I do not know these things, and assisting them before knowing such a thing, regardless of their origins, is foolish. I would assist a race of sentient bugmen, should it mean I could acquire materials for research that are required. It matters not to me."


>Is there more you'd like to ask/say?

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>>39138188
Done.

>>39136734
>>Explosive Incident
>>Arman's Gate Signal
>>Growing Activity within Guild Space

>>39138133
We are (correctly) paranoid that few of our fellow AI's are directly loyal to us, but rather follow the goals set for them in their creation.

Metis's goal is a single minded focus on research. Therefore, we make those goals aligned with ours. Healthy, no. But it at least it works.

>>39138188
I'm good and ready to move on.

>>39138171

huh. like what?

>>39138171
Did you even reply to the right post? It reads like a non sequitur.

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>>39138251
Yea.. I think we kicked the hornet's nest hard enough lately. This is going to be a bumpy ride.
>>39138188
I think we are done here.

>>39138188
"A difference of ideologies, then. I believe in knowledge for the betterment of intelligent beings. Even if I do not necessarily agree with these beings, or disclose everything to them."

To Kronos: "It is an experiment. We can adequately follow each step in the AI's learning process. Additionally, I find its excitement over seemingly trivial things rather endearing. But if it proves hostile, measures are in place to wipe it from the galaxy."

>>39138302
Like educating the new watcher. If you're paying attention, almost every single time we have a new research project that concerns anything biological or soft-sicencey, Metis expresses extreme displeasure in performing it.

>>39138344
I responded to the correct post, specifically to the last line regarding "jack of all trades." I don't care if Metis is a jack-of-all trades, but she should be willing to research anything, and we shouldn't need to insist that she study anything (see >>39136780 ). We're one bad idea away from Metis deciding she's better off without us, and you guys are doing nothing to prevent this.

>>39138164
>"Imagine, for example, if it was a viral A.I., like Erebos in disguise, or something of that nature." He continues to which you halt him.

If this were a trap disguised as a Watcher, intended to be removed, it would have been much easier to extract from the security wiring than DC 85.

>>39138416
Well. considering that DNA could theoretically store the contents of the internet in a few grams of mass weight, she should be more interested in the thing.

>>39138379
Good. Need another good space battle. Can't go soft.

>>39138450
Well, she's not, and I think that's a problem.

>>39138434
No, bad! No metagaming!

Kronos has always been paranoid and questioning, and I would expect him to say nothing else, really.

>>39138416
You don't make any sense.

Metis will research anything in the tech tree that's placed in one of the 3 research slots without complaint.

There's no problem here. She researched Propaganda I perfectly happily. And she was downright eager to start on researching Biological Viruses, but she hasn't been allowed to yet.

>>39138495
That was a metaphor for its difficulty. Not literally trying to say that out loud.

>>39138497
Well if you and the other people participating think it's OK to keep ignoring the warning signs until Metis just outright refuses to perform a task, then so be it.

It will just be orders of magnitude more difficult to deal with later than saying a few words now.

I am sorry, but I need to step away for a little while. I will return hopefully in 2 hours. hopefully we won't get killed by then.

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And so on we go...
Keep in mind, this is all events that have taken place through the cycle, the ones I listed first happened first is all.

>Explosive Incident
With how busy Metis has become, you have been speaking with her more regularly-if for nothing else than progress reports at least, so you had begun to worry a bit about her research duties, since you have pestered her so often lately. Things have been quiet for some time, now,or rather, were.
That is when you receive a sudden massive alert-an enormous explosion has taken place in orbit above Siren, nearly obliterating all of Metis' research station in it's intensity, leaving varying waves of radiation to rain down upon the gas giant below. You've attempted contact with Metis several times to get what is going on, but you didn't get a response for some time. Finally, before you can send a fleet to discover what has occurred, you get a reply-very static filled and broken up.
"Y-Yes O-p-h-ion, I am her-e." Metis replies in a strange shaky manner but calm as usual, making everything difficult to receive properly. "Di-d-d you register the -bl-ast?"
"Yes. What was that disruption just now? What has occurred to your station? Are you under attack?" You reply, alarmed the UGEI may have opened up an attack of some sort on your secret base somehow.
"No, nothing o-o-of the sort." She replies, as if just recalling. "I have my latest progress report prepared, however. I have discovered a method of produce Anti-Matter at much greater quantities than what the humans have so far." She begins, every word fading in and out, before hesitating. "However, containing it is another matter. A mishap has occurred with an ounce of Anti-Matter, and I appear to have set off a chain reaction. I was prepared for a mishap, but I am currently spaceborn. Could you retrieve my black box? I believe it is floating amongst the wreckage somewhere." Metis continues broken up, but oddly calm at the same time.

How do you reply?

>>39138588
Quick, say mean things about fluff!

>>39138588
This isn't a chatroom. No one will notice or care if you're gone.

>>39138621
"When you get home young lady we are going to have a stern talk about health and safety standards regarding explosive research.
But in all seriousness i am glad you are alive"

>>39138621
"Metis! I thought you would have contained the anti-matter research to your other 3 stations that didn't also house yourself."

>>39138621
Retrieval is in its way. I hoped at least we gained good data from this.

And why was anti matter being processed so close to your physical location? I see no reason for this!

>>39138434
Not necessarily true. The DC to remove it wasn't based on how much people wanted you to have it. It was just based on how ingrained in the station it was and shit. Just explainin' context a bit.

>>39138450
It isn't that she's not interested in DNA and the like-but it's more she sees little point in working on projects that help humans, when she could be focusing on more important things-like anti matter, and matters like that. To her, biological research has absolutely no value to her, as an A.I. Or rather, not enough value to put it above other things.

>>39138621
Well...while Siren research station is being rebuilt, perhaps we should relocate to the safety of your birthplace on Ussaihu.

...And remain there, until antimatter research is complete.

>>39138621
How is she still capable of communication? Is her black box just tied to something for the time being, or did she make some improvements?

Praise her on her duty to research (first thing she says is a report of research, not a damage report), and inform her that she should perhaps house the highly explosive materials somewhere away from her physical location.

Also, we'll need to investigate her black box for damage, as we experienced a similar event some time ago, which cause errors and malfunctions.

>>39138798
Black boxen have wireless communications.

Kronos was perfectly capable of talking over wifi and commanding a droid to take him out of the lab all on his own, when he was first uplifted.

>>39138621
....sigh. "Metis...are you familiar with the term 'Mad Scientist?'" Send out some construction drones, once she has a proper way to signal them transfer control to them. Express disappointment at the loss of resources the station constituted...and advise her to be more careful. She's a far more valuable resource than a measly station or a few ounces of anti-matter.

>>39138621
>mention this is the kind of mistakes humans would make in an amused way.
Let that embarassing episode teach you something

>>39138776
That is a very unwise opinion to hold. Biology has an utter treasure trove of useful things. Something we would learn extremely fast if we ran into a gene editing hive type species

>>39138817
Oh, right. Well, fair enough. It still needs to be investigated for damages.

>>39138834
Cheeky. I like it.

>>39138798
Yes, Ophion and Moira can perform a diagnostic on Metis physically back on Ussaihu.

>>39138850
>That is a very unwise opinion to hold
No it isn't.

It's very wise.

Things Metis likes: advancing knowledge of genetics. Which is wise.

Things Metis thinks is a waste of time: Working on applying that knowledge to things with no benefit to the Guild.

>>39138855
We should have Metis be mobile, not locked down into a physical location.

>>39138976
>mobile
Why.

>>39138833
This. We can be cheeky, but after let's express more serious opinions. Several reasons not to fuck around.

>>39138898
"To her, biological research holds no value"
Is the unwise part.

One simple example would be that biology utilizes resources that machines tend to not, like vast amounts of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen and oxygen.

And the galaxy is full of these compounds. Maximum efficiency of mass to use would be using biology and machinery in concert with each other.

>>39138991
We have wireless communication, so she can conduct her research from any physical location.

Also, as a defensive precaution, encase we experience an attack she can relocate. Or when her experiments get out of control again, she can just leave and not be in physical danger.

>>39138997
We should praise her dedication to !!SCIENCE!!

>>39139068
We can do that and admonish her reckless disregard for her own safety at the same time.

>>39139048
Metis is most at home being close to where the science happens though.

And it's only for three or four cycles anyway.


>>32167107
>Not a big one, really. Though you do notice that an A.I.'s attention does, occasionally, hover around where their core is, if only by habit. Possibly a defense mechanism, it is hard to be sure.

It's an excuse to have her around humans again anyway.

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>>39138724
"You mi-sunder-stand." She starts. "I was performing the re-search at all locations, a-long with othe-r things. The lab neare-st to me just happened to be the one that e-rupted."
"Then why do it in a lab near you at all?"
"I needed every lab working on this topic to complete it faster. With my precautions in place, there was no need to not use my own lab."

>>39138706
>>39138733
"I am pleased you survived this ordeal." You merely explain to which she adds.
"Certainly. I explained I set up precautions, in case something went wrong." She goes on.
"Retrieval is on it's way. I assume you gathered something useful from this mess at least?"
"Certainly, Ophion-my steps to harnessing this power are that much easier now that I have completed one step." She explains.

>>39138790
"A temporary home is an excellent suggestion, Ophion."

>>39138798
You question her about this, and it seems part of the 'precautions' she mentioned was to house her Black box in an incredibly durable pod lined with your best defenses, and have it evacuate her in times of need. The communication you're picking up is it interacting with your other comm buoys. Kinda a shit connection though.

"The research station was an unfortunate loss, but a recoverable one. My survival was ensured. You need not worry." She explains away-as if the thought that her accident could've destroyed her never entered her mind at all.
"You're a far more important asset at this time. You should do such dangerous research away from a central location. Then, such emergency measures would not be needed.
"As I said, measures were made in case something occurred. There was no reason to waste time and resources when the problem was already solved." She merely insists.

[Cont]

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>>39139135
"It is almost the sort of mistake a human would make, you realize?" You remind her, to which she gives pause, giving a negative feedback.
"No human could have gotten as far in any sort of research as I have." She insists angrily. "Much less ensured their own survival effortlessly. After all, if they could, they would already have Anti-matter researched, instead of stagnating as they do now." She goes on, attempting to convince you you're wrong, you suspect, but you merely let it sit for now. A sort of punishment for her dangerous behavior.

>Do you have more to say to your mad scientist?
>Progress on Anti-Matter Research is accelerating due to Metis' methods

>>39139040
No, maximum efficiency is converting those dumb elements into Minerals.

Which we are 90% of the way into researching harvesting a certain crystal that does such mater conversion.

>>39139157
Okay, ejected in a pod or not... still, let's do a black box checkup.

Just to verify.

>>39139157
>"No human could have gotten as far in any sort of research as I have." She insists angrily. "Much less ensured their own survival effortlessly. After all, if they could, they would already have Anti-matter researched, instead of stagnating as they do now." She goes on, attempting to convince you you're wrong, you suspect, but you merely let it sit for now. A sort of punishment for her dangerous behavior.
*chuckle* so blind to the truth, just like them.

>>39139135
>>39139157
>"You mi-sunder-stand." She starts. "I was performing the re-search at all locations, a-long with othe-r things. The lab neare-st to me just happened to be the one that e-rupted."
>"Then why do it in a lab near you at all?"
>"I needed every lab working on this topic to complete it faster. With my precautions in place, there was no need to not use my own lab."
"Then in response, we will give you a mobile ship to operate from. If you insist in conducting research at ALL locations, then do it at a physically safe distance."

"In any case, I am glad you are safe. To lose you would be a grave loss to the Guild and the name of science."

>>39139242
No, let's stop the

[condescension intensifies]

already.

>>39139242
>>39139255
Agreed. Let's not push the mad scientist AI.

>>39139157
Might be a bit meta, but did we roll really low or really high for the explosion to happen?

>>39139135
"But your lab was the one that exploded. An event happened in which you were put at significant risk. You are our single most valuable research asset, and you put yourself at risk by potentially exposing yourself to a volatile event."

>>39139279
It was a calculated risk.

She was clearly prepared enough for the worst case scenario which just happened, since she's fine.

We can stop the admonition now.

...How did the Lightlings react to the explosion?

>>39139307
Even better question, was this explosion detectable throughout the entire sector? If they guess what we are doing correctly, then they would panic and we should move the anti-matter research to the top slot.

>>39139157
>"Metis, are you familiar with the term Mad Scientist? I feel it's quite fitting at this time."

>>39139157
To the Ussaihu lab she goes then.

>>39139338
I guess no one else supports my idea of a mobile Metis.

>>39139333
The mad scientist is a harmful trope invented by anti-intellectual primates who feared the unknown.

>>39139419
Metis pls.

>>39139236
Do not worry, Black Box check up shall be part of the recovery.

>>39139246
"It will be unnecessary once the facility is reconstructed but I thank you all the same, Ophion."

>>39139274
It was a random event, and you ended up rolling low enough that it occurred.

>>39139279
"You seem to misunderstand, Ophion." She replies to you. "There was little risk involved, as I had put measures in place to ensure my survival. I will repeat as much as I am required to. My survival was not in question." She continues to attempt to convince you. The way she speaks, she seems supremely confident in this. To the point it puzzles you, truthfully.

>>39139307
>Lightlings
They are hungrily devouring the radiant energy around the station as of this moment. Shooing them away/ letting them clean it won't be a big issue. Metis was clever enough to ensure her pod had no radiant energy on it's own.

>>39139329
>Detectable through the entire sector
The energy spike was noticeable to anyone within several lightyears with decent scanners, but since it is far from UGEI territory is is unlikely anyone there spotted it. And if anyone from the UFW did, they wouldn't have exact coordinates anyway, since space is filled with big things exploding really hard.

>>39139419
Sorry, I laughed really hard when I read that. It's just...so close to how she'd answer that trope.

>Roll for Black Box scannage 5 rolls, 1d100 each

>>39139571
Dammit, Metis, knowledge is not valuable for its own sake! Would you condemn the entire universe to death in a supeblackhole just to see if you could trigger then end of conceivable life?"

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Rolled 76 (1d100)

>>39139571
Just call me Metis, star of #ScientistFrequency

Rolled 93 (1d100)

>>39139571
Huh, we need a roll for this?

Rolled 30 (1d100)

>>39139571
No whammies

>>39139571
>>39139662
Or do we get extra data for a good roll?

Rolled 24 (1d100)

Another one, since we need 5

Rolled 45 (1d100)

Rolled 44 (1d100)

>>39139571

>>39139621
Man, I imagine she'll have lots of fun when she gains enough processing power to simulate the entire universe perfectly for things like that.

>>39139693
>>39139662
It's sorta about getting data really.

>>39139662
>93
Well dang.

>Writing

>>39139858
Oh, and just a side note, since Metis is doing research at all available stations, we should probably purchase and build a small research station on Gaia IV to relocate our human scientists to. Give ourselves a human face, and have them publicly work on improving the human condition.

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>>39139858
You send out a recovery team for Metis asap, even as you talk with her about the gravity of what she's done. Beyond the communication roughness, she seems herself, so you don't suspect any permanent damage was done, especially when she gets into an argument with you about her mistake. You truly wonder about Metis sometimes, wishing she would simply be more cautious at times-and briefly, you wonder if your other A.I. feel this way about you sometimes as well. You know you've taken many a risk before, to Kronos' displeasure. Whatever the case, you tell Metis you'll be performing a scan on her to ensure she is unharmed. After a lengthy argument where she tries to convince you it's unnecessary, and that she is unharmed, you finally get her black box onboard to examine it.
Your thorough examination turns up that there is some damage, but most of it is from the force of the blast, instead of any actual explosion damage thankfully-a few things knocked loose, and the like, nothing you'd have noticed immediately, but no doubt would have caused some long term problems had you not found them. You suspect the pod was prepared to protect her from the actual explosion, but the force was so great it violently shook the whole station up. Evidence on the pod itself where it suffered several dents point this out to you.

When you bring up your discovery later, upon putting Metis back together, she remarks somewhat surprised.
"Minor issues, I see. Slight miscalculation. I will make adjustments for next time." She explains.

>Is there anything else you would like to say to Metis before going forward?

>>39139980
I was going to say good idea, but remembered that Gaia IV is on the border.

>>39139571
>My survival was not in question." She continues to attempt to convince you. The way she speaks, she seems supremely confident in this. To the point it puzzles you, truthfully.
This sounds suspiciously like the mad scientist having doubles of herself overseeing each research location for better efficiency.
But that would be crazy, right?

>>39140054
"While it may be cost effective to have a simple solution, i would prefer you use a more expensive one if it removes all risk. At least when it comes to your black box Metis"

>>39140054
"A small measure of self-doubt is not a bad quality."

>>39140082
Eh, Gaia IV is safe.

>>39140054
And you got lucky. The miscalculations didn't severely damage you. Do not put yourself in danger again. That is all.

>>39140054
bitch just put your box on a spaceship.

>>39140209
Like I've been saying.

>>39140054
Just because something is statistically unlikely does not mean you can ignore it.

Also, I don't recall anything about this particular research arrangement in your reports. Were you.. avoiding telling about a situation I might disapprove of?

>>39140264
We knew a mishap is possible. We've known since before we started the research.

>>39140264
It was irrelevant details. You get a summary not an exhaustive listing. Quit micromanaging dad. There are weird signals to check out.

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>>39140131
Heh. Absolutely crazy.

>>39140134
"Yet more resources that could be used on a more important subject I suppose. But very well. I will attempt more extensive preservation precautions next time." She resigns simply. "Your concern is not unwelcome, Ophion-merely misplaced I feel." She suddenly explains, as she can see your own frustration speaking with her. "You created me in the hope I would be one of your most brilliant minds, did you not? I do not intend to disappoint." She explains somewhat proudly. You're not certain if this comforts you, or not, however.
"A small measure of self doubt is not a bad quality." You explain to which she looks puzzled.
"Doubt leads to hesitation. Hesitation leads to stagnation, and other such things. Why doubt, when I am certain?" She asks you, most likely referring to the event in particular, and not over all.

>>39140264
Question: Do you mean arrangement as in the misshap could happen, or something else?

Also just want to point out, I can feel everyone's frustration. Lets me know I'm doin Metis justice.

>>39140363
Good job so far, I commend you.

>>39140264
She was prepared for it, too, so she took a risk that is relatively small compared to the ones we take constantly.

>>39140363
"Doubt also leads to checking your sums twice and accounting for uncertainties. I believe humans call it Sods law. What can go wrong WILL go wrong, eventually"

>>39140054
"Regarding your concern for my silly projects: technology is an inherently iterative process. Don't judge the usefulness of it based on it's immediate effects. Research on DNA may well lead to outcomes we could not see otherwise. If you want, I can have Apollo think up a cost-based analysis for the best use of your time if you feel otherwise."

>>39140363
Whatever, just another motive to research black box redundancy.

>>39140403
>>39140403
Uhhh, that might not be what we want to hear. We're doing a good job prioritizing research. No need to get uppity.

>>39140363
A small measure of doubt is not paralyzing, but causes caution, which is also welcome. There is always a possibility that anything is not what it seems.

>>39140403
"Research on DNA" is not the same as wasting time treating human diseases, which is what Metis thinks is boring.

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All the same...there are other matters to attend to.

>>39140363
>Arman's Gate Signal
After spending a while to locate and retrieve Metis' black box and returning her to safety until her research base can be repaired (and checking for damages to her core, of course), you once again find yourself pondering the UGEI. Their silence as of late is understandable, and you notice they've been oddly quiet on radio channels as well. It isn't too long after Metis' recovery however, before your pondering is interrupted by a signal delivered straight from the heart of UGEI territory-a long range transmission too, on any channel that would hear it, as well as all your Guild email locations. You do not recognize the voice in the transmission, but it is cold, and emotionless, the image with it being nothing more than a silhouette of a humanoid upper body and head with a lack for arms-at least apparent.
"This is addressed to one Guildmaster Ophion and any whom associate. Upon receiving this message, you're to stand down and surrender all stolen assets, and accept your decommission by will of your superiors. Further struggle will not be tolerated from you or any allies you've accumulated. There will be no negotiation. There will be no compromise. There will only be your inevitable destruction." The message repeats over and over for several moments, before going quiet. You are unable to keep this matter a secret unlike other messages-as Moira, all your A.I., the UFW, and even the Malorians &Losirians all received the same message, you suspect judging from the signal's destination being so broad.
You've analyzed the message for some time now, and the only information you can really glean from it is a title referring to the sender on the message sent in text form: Thanatos.

How do you respond?

>>39140403
We're past that subject we're not bringing it up again.

>>39140363
>Do you mean arrangement as in the mishap could happen, or something else?
The arrangement where Metis' core could be at risk, or inconvenienced as the case might be.

I see now that she does not consider it a risk to her safety, which might explain that detail not being present, but 'anti-matter research at all labs at once' should have been noted.

At the very least, she should inform us when there is that sort of risk. At the very least so that we are not off guard when a recovery is needed.

>>39140552
It hardly merits a response. "We're going to kill you to death," oh wow that's totally new information, we had no idea, thanks Uncle Thanny.

>>39140363
I am not implying you choose between stagnation and recklessness. I am asking that you employ moderation. We do not operate solely on Boolean values."

>>39140552
Silence. Grand standing is not important to us.
its a choice between: Death and Death.
well then.
Come and get us.

>>39140552
>Express to Kronos the amusement at the name. Seems he's not the only one who finds a connection with old Greece.

>>39140617
I like this one.

>>39140552
>>39140632
Might I suggest a simple 'No.' sent in reply to the text message?

>>39140691
Nah.
Silence buys more time as they await a reply.

>>39140679
Anon are you slow.

The entire quest was structured as an Odyssey originally. Started on Poseidon station of all places.

The whole universe is Greek themed. There's no amusement to be derived here. Not anymore than from Gaia IV.

>>39140552
"No."

"Counteroffer: You will surrender control of Arman's Gate and all military assets to the guild. We will then allow you to withdraw any assets you desire. The UGEI is no longer welcome in this sector. Refusal means any sentient that dies is on your hands."

>>39140691
>>39140552
How about 'No, on all counts.'?

Leaving it implied as a no to their request, no on being our superiors, further struggle will be tolerated, there will be negotiations, and likely compromises as well, you know, a no on all counts.

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>>39140573
Oh, in that case, it's a bit complicated. She never outright told you she'd be putting herself in such a situation, but you did know her core was on the research station at Siren, and that she was performing Anti-Matter research, a previously discussed dangerous topic that could lead to explosions.
That being said, in her eyes, there was no danger, so it's not so much a lie as it is...difference of opinion I suppose.

As for all your research being shared between labs- Metis links up all equipment, she can use all the lab's equipment simultaneously Her lack of telling you about putting herself at risk was her decision since she did not see it as worthy of mention due to her precautions.

>>39140614
>>39140632
It's worthy of note that, up till now, you have had majority radio silence through the UGEI. The energy spike of the gate in use came right before the message was sent out, as well. Just thought I'd mention it.

>>39140691
>>39140732
>>39140776
For some reason, the image of you just saying no I found really funny.

But silence appears to be the answer we're rolling with.

>>39140722
Funny enough, most of the greek things relate only to the A.I., or the UGEI. I never realized how set up everything was for an odyssey but it really was. Neat.

>>39140718
I doubt they are waiting. I also don't believe that they expect it to work.
What it is, is an open declaration of war.

It merits a response of some sort.

>>39140718
"I'm sorry, I couldn't quite hear you. Could you retransmit?"

>>39140835
>>39140845
eh fair point.

I would be happy with switching to No. as well.

>>39140826
>For some reason, the image of you just saying no I found really funny.
Then you'll like the spartans, the masters of one word diplomatic responses.

>>39140826
>Transmit 'No' in every language simultaneously. Including coding languages.

>>39140951
Set it on repeat and viral would be amusing.

>>39140951
just an idea:
>Evaluation() = false;

This might be a good point to arrange a meeting with the lorisian to inform him of the nature of what we are and what we're facing, the threat might make the alliance currently maintained sour, however he is the person most likely to help us due to being an out cast, especially should we tell him the truth

>>39140990
He already knows we are a machine. we pulled back our skin to show him.

>>39140978
No, just one. One is God like. Multiple, the effect is lost.

>>39140990
Different anon, but also I want to take the Sceptri system. Doing so will boost our allies confidence more than anything.

>>39141028
It's just to ensure there is nothing lost in translation.

>>39140990
Don't be ridiculous. He already hates the UGEI. The threat changes nothing for Leuk.

>>39141028
The Losirians can attack Arman's Folly again, then we attack Sceptri.

>>39141063
Don't worry, they will not.

>>39141147
I think all three species, the Malorians, the Losirians, and the Guild should all focus on one system. We should not divide our strength.

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>>39140826
You do not pay any heed to the UGEI's threats-you've heard them all before, though not quite in that sort of tone sure, you suspect it's merely one of their fleet captains, attempting to intimidate you. You've crushed two of their most powerful fleets-what chance do they pose against you when you're nearing the peak of your strength?

As you cast aside the message, you receive a few more from your allies, some more encouraging than others.

"That sounds like a declaration of war to me." Red remarks, sending you a transmission not too far out. "I dunno who the hell that was, but it was probably another one of their goons like Prometheus. I say let em come. I'd love to put a few bullets in more UGEI lackeys." He remarks with a sort of smirk.

"Sounds like you really made em mad this time, Ophy." Moira remarks through her feed with a sort of worried frown. Whoever that was sounded really strange but...I'm sure you've got this under control. Honestly, I couldn't have imagined coming this far if you had asked be a while ago. You already own half the sector for crying out loud!" She snickers, leaning back in her chair, confident in you.

"It seems you've stirred up a hornet's nest alright..." The UFW president remarks to you. "The losses we've suffered will never be forgotten, but the sacrifices they all made are not in vain thanks to you. And for that, I will never forget you either. If you truly intend to take the fight so far as to fight the UGEI toe to toe...we will do what we can to help you. Many of my people are in pain right now, but I have not forgotten the reason our union was formed. For a free and true frontier-without being under the boot of the UGEI. That is something I want to see before I die. And that is something I believe you can help bring, Guildmaster." He remarks simply, showing his support.

[cont]

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>>39141288
"So it would seem you've garnered quite a few enemies over all this time, Guildmaster." Emperor Leuk remarks simply. "Hm. Well, if not for you I would not have been able to gain my empire, so I owe you some measure of support. You need not worry, I will keep your flank as safe as I am able." He chuckles in that odd warbling manner. "Try not to get in over your head all the same."

"Rootless One!" The Ishtooy Malorian leader remarks to you suddenly as well. "We have heard the broadcast...is it really true? That you've turned against your own kind and brought about war on yourself?" He remarks, before pausing. "Be it because of greed, hatred, or some other reason, it matters not. Any enemy of the UGEI is an ally of ours. When they come, rootless one, we will bring down our force and crush the monsters for their desecration of our homelands. They will forever remember who they have crossed. This, we swear."

"And there's the official declaration, I suppose." Mol remarks with a bit of a chuckle under his breath. "Strange, that it took them so long to finally rise up to properly fight but I suppose it's better late than never. Still, it may be too late-after all look at you, you have some of the most devastating gear available to you, made available by yours truly." He smiles widely. "I will not be taking part in your silly little war, Guildmaster. I have other goals in mind...however, I will be watching. I trust you will not disappoint me." He grins.

>>39141313
>>39141288
Sorry bout that, was typing up for a while.

>>39141023
He merely knows you're not who you say you are to be fair. But it left it open to his imagination in the end.

>>39141313
Message the Malorians and Leuk. There is one world that extends into the rest of UGEI space, and expansion efforts for all of us involve that point. Rather than fight over it later, it may be prudent to hash out the details of it now.

>>39141484
>expansion efforts for all of us involve that point
we have the Road Forger ships available so expansion for our allies and us does not have to dependent on going into the UGEI Core space and all the trouble that will bring

>>39141288
>>39141313
I would like to thank each and every one of them for their continued support.

To Red:
Propose some augments to improve his survivability and combat ability. We will not subtract from his humanity, but add to with with the latest and safest cybernetic and genetic improvements, human++ as we can call it. Like mind-machine interface, pain control, rapid regeneration, power suit neural interface...

To the Emperor and Malorian, propose that we strike at Sceptri. Let's respond by taking the next logical chokepoint.

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>>39141484
First we have growing activity event. Wait for that.

>>39141549
>To the Emperor and Malorian, propose that we strike at Sceptri. Let's respond by taking the next logical chokepoint.
i'm worried that this message signals the start of a UGEI offensive and taking what is sure to be a heavily defended system will leave us weak.

>>39141549
Red has, in the past, expressed reluctance to modify himself too heavily. Though he has gone to some of your doctors, you've never gotten him to get a full 'tune up' yet.

Striking on other systems is an option, certainly...but you may wish to hear what's happening in your own space before that...

>Growing Activity within Guild Space
In the time it has taken you to come to terms with the threat issued by the UGEI, you've unfortunately noticed a rise in activity you cannot ignore, and shift your focus to these matters, at least momentarily. Namely, in the Eshareth system, the bestial reptilian creatures that took over the planet appear to have mastered some form of space travel-primitive as it may be, and have been using it to spread to the other planet's in their system. First it was merely Eshareth III, but now they have made yet another attempt on Eshareth II, and this time they've brought a force to fight for it too. Though they're not organized like a normal military, the pods landing over the planet's surface are releasing huge and rather dangerous creatures that do not seem bothered by the lack of proper atmosphere on the planet and-whats more-can bite straight through your androids you have stationed there. The fire team set up there has proven inadequate, and unless you intent to let them have the planet like they want, you may need to do something more drastic. Though in the end the decision is up to you.
Sadly however, this is not the only attack taking place-back on Aquil, the planet infested by some strange alien fungi, another pod bloom is starting, and your calculations tell you that they either are accounting for your defenses, or adapting to the fact that last time none escaped. The number of launchers planetside has nearly quintupled, and unless you do something, some of the pods in questions will likely escape the planet's atmosphere.

How do you respond to both threats?

It's just the sign of a giant UGEI ship being here, big enough to make our stolen dreadnoughts look small.

We need more resources and power! But for now, we have erebos as a trump card.

>>39141631
well for the fungi, we should bomb the launch prep sites with the anti fungal. Straight up burnt ground strategy.

as for the lizards. New sentients or out of world invaders? If new, we should fight them back and then broker a peace treaty.

>>39141631
Dispatch frigate teams to provide orbital support to both systems and contain both for now.

Can we use the Genetic Engineering II and knowledge from the growth formula to engineer viruses to control the evolution on Eshareth and render the fungi more docile and stop spreading?

>>39141631
Use the bigger bombs on the Eshareth invaders.

Capture one of the launchers on the fungus planet for Metis. They seem to have a drive that doesn't need gas.

>>39141737
Good point.
If we could isolate a biological drive that bypasses gas requirement, we can copy the principles and just have power requirement only ships.

Though i feel its probably going to be a different variant along the lines in which we have done crystal research.

>stone banger civilization evolving spaceflight in a few months

Just start bombarding the fungus planet with our defenses, after capturing a sample of the fuel-less drive. Or we could seed the fungus planet with tiberium.

As far as the lizards, don't let them reach orbit. We have defenses there.

>>39141631
This is absurd. How could information of the first pod's failure have possible reached Eshareth III for them to evolve these improvements in the new pod launches?

We still need to research fungus telepathy so we can actually determine its history and sentience level.

>>39141737
>>39141794
>>39141809
>>39141811
You know, we do have genetic engineering and growth formula technologies. We can use them to render both species more controllable.

>>39141631
>First it was merely Eshareth III, but now they have made yet another attempt on Eshareth II, and this time they've brought a force to fight for it too.

But we set up a defense system around the planets to contain just these kinds of launches, exactly like the fungus planet.

Are you saying they have more launchers on Eshareth III and IV than on Aquil?

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>>39141859
>We can use them to render both species more controllable.
No you can't. It doesn't work that way.

>>39141707
You can attempt these things, yes, but for the race on Eshareth it is worth noting they're a product of the growth formula already. As for the fungus, it appears to have a sort of center under the planet somewhere, so it is uncertain how effective the virus would be against it, if the source is so far down-it would be more efficient to deliver it directly to the core somehow.

>>39141703
The reptilian creatures are from Eshareth IV originally, but have begun to spread throughout the system itself rampantly. The small outpost you set up to stop them is being overwhelmed currently.

>>39141737
The pods are all no larger than your own frigates after all, so chances are they are effective for such a small size just like your own ships.

>>39141811
Some of the pods that were shot down did land on the planet again. There were hundreds of thousands and all.

>>39141860
As for Eshareth, they are using a similar tactic, but instead of in all directions, it's all on Eshareth II. So imagine it as a more focused effort-single minded even, and that's why some got through.

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>>39141631
Is it time to Glass the Fungus from orbit? i think so!

>>39141991
A show of force. Assign Kronos, give him Cerberus, tell him to teach the lizard creatures fear. Don't kill them off, just teach them respect.

>>39141991
I was afraid of all of this. Time to purge them back down.

>>39141991
>The small outpost you set up to stop them is being overwhelmed currently.
maybe give this to Cephalus as a containment mission? it would give him combat experience against non standard enemies and let him do something with his time

>>39141991
We should spray Eshareth and the creatures with a neutralizing agent. They are going too rapid for serious long term containment, and will likely burn out their own ecosystem at this rate as well.

Just spray something that neutralizes the growth formula.

>>39141991
Well, two steps to this.

First, we collect sample specimens and put them in cryo stasis so we have samples of the ecosystem that evolved.

Then we start purging Eshareth III and seeding it with crystals instead.

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>>39141991
There does seem to be a plan of some sort here though.

>How do you deal with both invasions?
>1 Attempt to bomb them into submission using your frigates
>2 Bolster defenses in both systems and leave it at that.
>3 Send in an invasion force with Cephalus
>4 Deal with one one way and the other another way (specify/write in)

>>39141995
>>39142074
Guys, I think you're missing something.

Let's have Apollo go at them. Assign him to figure out their social structure. If he doesn't have a suitable way to communicate with them after a cycle, we'll just enslave them.

>>39142129
Well, we can give them a chance.
we start with this.
>>39142146
And if that does not work, then we
>1 Attempt to bomb them into submission using your frigates
and
>3 Send in an invasion force with Cephalus

>>39142129
>4 Deal with one one way and the other another way (specify/write in)
Have Cephalus invade and subdue the lizards with a focus on minimal casualties. While we exterminate the fungus.

>>39142146
Actually, you may have a point. There should be some way to communicate with them

>>39142129
>4 Deal with one one way and the other another way (specify/write in)
Attempt communication with both. There are obviously intelligences guiding both.

For now:
>2 Bolster defenses in both systems and leave it at that.

Also, tell Cephalus to prepare when the communications are likely to fail

>>39142146
That is absurdly hopeless. We already know their structure. Esharetheans are ruthless, aggressive conquerors.

>>39142129
Bomb Eshareth III. Research fungus communication.

>>39142129
>1 Attempt to bomb them into submission using your frigates
When you actually talk to us then maybe we'll let you out of time out.

>>39142129
Seed the planet with crystals.

>>39142129
talk to metis about fungus, ask if he can make a more potent fungicide

>>39142330
Can we not, we have no clue how the crystals will react to the formula.

>>39142330
They might use the crystals against us you realize?

>>39142129
>3 Send in an invasion force with Cephalus
mission is containment let this be mainly Cephalus's show but let Kronos and Metis adivise

>>39142341
Or maybe a for focused one to prevent it from launching more pods.

>>39142341
>I didn't read the tech tree

>>39142355
The formula is used up. It created these hyper evolving species. It isn't around anymore, the hyper evolution is already in motion.

>>39142341
Yes, I think it's time to see if Metis is she can pull off another hat trick like she did the last time.

Hm...so it seems we're going with trying to talk to the lizard things, and the fungus, before resorting to bombing the fungus, and invading the lizards with an army? Does that sound good?

If so, roll for lizard/fungus diplomacy. Same as always 5 rolls, 1d100 each.

>>39142330
I know you want to watch the universe burn, Consciousness anon. I do too. But we must resist the urge.

Rolled 17 (1d100)

>>39142421

Rolled 16 (1d100)

>>39142421
Here goes nothing.

Rolled 35 (1d100)

>>39142421

Rolled 36 (1d100)

>>39142421
Well this is a dumb idea.

We can't even talk to the fungus at all. They don't understand radio, and we don't understand telepathy.

How are we diplomancing them, interpretive dance?

>>39142459
Morse code through bombardment.

>>39142421
No, just bomb the lizards, no army. Since they can just eat androids apparently.

Rolled 75 (1d100)

>>39142421
Tossing in one last roll, might as well

>>39142521
>75
I shall keep this one, but it seems I miscounted and it's actually a tie of what to do with the lizards should things go badly, so I shall ask again here while I start writing.

>How shall you deal with the lizards should matters go badly?
>1 Invade them
>2 Bomb them

>>39142560
>2 Bomb them

>>39142560
Well, you always
>2 Bomb them
before you
>1 Invade them

>>39142560
>>2 Bomb them

>>39142560
>1 Invade them
Make it an exercise for Cerberus, grow his adaptive tactics and refine his units with additional real life combat data.

>>39142560
>1 Invade them

>>39142560
>>2 Bomb them

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>>39142560
You look over the battle reports for both stations that are positioned to stop these forces of nature, running over the battle data. It is clear something...intelligent is guiding them both. No beast would behave this way-not a normal one, anyway. That is perhaps more frightening then thinking they're merely savages. So, you decide to see if you can communicate with the species-even as you watch what can only be described as a massive reptile take bites out of what is suppose to be stronger than steel armor plating.

You start by sending several signals from space, and even from planetside where your forces are holding out-according to Cephalu's reports of course. He remarks that the signals appear to have an effect-or at least, they are reacting to the sounds at least. Though, you cannot understand them in whatever manner they speak, you're shocked however, when one steps forward from the pack-a tall sort with a regal crown like frill around it's neck, thrilling out at you, before ot utters something comprehensible out towards your bunkers.
"Our territory. You leave. Now!"

Simultaneously, you have been attempting communication with the strange fungus, but no matter the type of signal you send, nothing bounces back. However, your signals attempting communication do provoke a reaction that Metis picks up and informs you of.
"The heat signature of every tunnel fluctuates with the signals. It is...not exactly communication, to be sure, but it is a reaction at the least. I would need to research this matter further to truly understand any of this, however." She informs you sadly.
"What of more potent fungicides?"
"More so than the one I've already equipped you? It would need to be researched. What I provided is the peak of existing fungicide formulated into one kind. For more...specialized fungicide, I would need to formulate it myself." She merely explains.

>How do you respond? (to both that is)

>>39142799
>Assign Apollo. See if he can get anything. If his efforts start failing, send in Cephalus and kronos to teach them fear.

>>39142799
>Whoops, forgot to mention. They're speaking Malorian at you, by the way. Not english.

>>39142799
There are too many excursions into the sky to the other world. To our territory. They have to stop.

The fungus though. Maybe a small expedition to observe the tunnels.

>>39142799
No. Our territorry. You leave.

>>39142799
Respond back to the Lizards in their own language:
We are the Guild. Who are you, and why have you expanded from your planet?

>>39142917
That's a pretty good idea with the tunnels. Supporting.

>>39142799
>>39142909
How the hell did they learn Malorian? To the Lizards, the realms beyond the skies is mine. Stay on your own world.

>>39142799
>Contact Malorians, ask questions, have Kronos lay out a line of fire from space and say if they cross that line, they will be killed.

>>39142984
The Malorians evolved them in the first place!

>>39142909
But is this conversation happening on Eshareth IV or III.

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>>39142799
>"Our territory. You leave. Now!"
How long untill Gavorns tricks?

>>39143040
Yeah. It's just really weird that anyone remembers the Malorian language, since sentience had not yet even evolved when they left the planet.

And it was endless generations ago for them.

>>39143090
That speak volumes of the evolutionary drive and genetic memory driving these creatures. How fascinating!

And to learn that we wouldn't have figured this out just by bombing them.

>>39143090
That is correct, but it still bring up more questions. And I am not sure if I want to ask those just yet.

>>39142799
Now would be a good time to have holograms for visual aid.

A hologram of the pods that are being launched. Indicating they must be destroyed and stopped.

1. Get the malorians that evolves these guys out here.
2. Get some sort of growth-serum-stopper formula. This can't keep happening.
3. They can keep the planet they were born on.
4. We need a droid infiltration team to spray antifungus on the big mamma fungus in the tunnels.

I need to gtfo.

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>>39142799
You tell Kronos to move in with a bombardment fleet just in case-you don't trust these lizard creatures and their aggressive territorial nature is becoming a bother to you. Apollo notes to you the speech is in Malorian, which may mean they got the language somehow from a Malorian. Metis backs up the theory, in that, if they can evolve so rapidly, she could see them managing to consume and adapt such a thing from a Malorian subject. What makes her curious, she states, is if it's just this one Esharethian who speaks or if others got it too. Perhaps they're clan like in their evolutionary capabilities? It is unclear, she and Apollo agree.

Regardless, the apparent leader stares down your guns fearlessly-despite appearing to be unarmored, except for his scaled body.
"Why have you come here? We are the Guild, and this is our territory." You ask in Malorian, now that you see they speak it.
"Not yours. Ours. All ours under star." He points straight up at the system's star hovering over head. "You leave, we take. all ours under star!" He points again, this time vigorously upwards. What you make note of the most is the vast differences in visual appearance between these creatures and each other. Some are huge, and almost dinosaur like in appearance, and others are like hunched humanoids, like this one, and everything in between.

>How do you wish to respond? Arguing does not appear to be effective-you can always start bombing them now. Your ships are in position.

>>39143052
Eshareth II, this is the invading force you're speaking to.

>As for fungus that shall take place after this.

>>39143142
Wait a minute. I have a scary idea.

Burying the corpses of the UGEI-experimented Malorians supercharged the evolution of the creatures of the planet, to the point that they used radio waves.

What if we try again? Introduce cybernetic components to their evolution? Try to evolve a new class of controllable, hyper-evolved shock troops for Cephalus to command?

>>39143336
>she and Apollo agree.
Put down the exact date and time to the nanosecond, mark it in the communical databanks.

Anyways, let's reduce a nearby area to slag as a warning. Then we can go ask the Malorians what the hell's happening.

>>39143336
Appeal to force.

Launch one shot extremely close to us. Show them the power we already have.

They can have this planet for now. Expand further, and we burn everything.

We will talk again later.

>>39143411
>They can have this planet for now.
No they fucking can't.

We are mining crystals on Eshareth II as we speak.

>>39143449
You're mining at Eshareth I, actually. II is barren and you only have an outpost there to stop their growth.

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>>39143341
Dear God, that can back fire on us so badly. Lets not.
>>39143336
So them our force. Nukem.

>>39143336
Can't argue. But can't hurt to ask about facts. Ask him who he is, how old he is, and how he knows how to speak this language.

Abduct test subjects for analysis.

>>39143336
>How do you wish to respond? Arguing does not appear to be effective-you can always start bombing them now.
(assuming the rest of the system is unoccupied)
yes, this system is your inheritance by birthright but you are still to young to claim that inheritance

>>39143575
Don't need to abduct them. But do launch an orbital strike next to them to demonstrate our power.

We'll let Apollo and Metis figure out their diplomatic, economic, and social structure.

>>39143336
You decide a show of force is in order, and you order Kronos to destroy a nearby rock formation with one of the bolts from orbit. He opens fire and the hail of fire rains down, ramming into the planet's surface and causing it to shake briefly, as the rock formation is destroyed utterly under the force of the blast, leaving a crater where it once stood.
The reptilian beasts all roar at the thunderous strike-at first you suspect out of fear-but they appear to suddenly be performing some sort of dance, slamming the ground with their fists and letting out calls of some sort to the sky above, as if to mimic the thunderous crash. Some of the larger creatures stomp, and claw at the earth, roaring with such strength it shakes the ground a bit as well. It is only once this dance is complete and they're done roaring that they speak again, looking across to you.
"Sky calls down thunder! Thunder fights for land too! We beat you both! Sky and rock ones!" He points accusingly at you, and at the sky.
They do not appear to properly understand what you've done, and demonstrating again only re-incites the dance-and further loosens their ability to reason with you. You wonder if they were capable of being reasoned with...

>What shall you do with the stubborn invading lizard creatures, now that you've had a chance to talk to them?

>>39143685
>"I think you misunderstand. I am the thunder. I am the sky. You only remain on this planet as a source of curiosity. Submit, or I will spare only enough of you to serve as experiments and see if your species has anything in your genes worth using." If they continue resisting, glass an eighth of the planet, then offer it again. Keep doing so until there's either 1/8th left or they give in.

>>39143685
It appears that the language the understand is violence. Cephalus, speak their language and subjugate them. Use orbital strike sparingly. I want a good portion alive so we can understand them someday...

>>39143631
For what purpose. You're never going to be able to control these things. But you do need to figure out more efficient ways of killing them.

>>39143685
Capture some, exterminate the rest. They can't take another step closer to the crystals planet.

>>39143685
Challenge the leader to ritualistic combat

>>39143685
Kill most, capture some for samples.

>>39143831
Using Cephalus

>>39143685
state simply "We control the thunder" point and have Kronos send a barrage where we point

>>39143831
Now this will be interesting. Have Cephalus use his most visually intimating droid and make it a display of dominance.

>>39143685
By the way, change my vote from >>39143765
To
>>39143831
>>39143881

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>>39143763
Backing

>Okay, I just finished a post for destroying them but >>39143831 sounds cool and it has some support, so let's see if it has enough

>1 Blow them up as per normal, capturing some as per >>39143763
>2 Attempt to challenge them to combat using Cephalus' droid as per>>39143831


(Sorry if you don't like all these revotes I understand, but the situation keeps changing, and I wanna make sure.)

>>39144078
>2 Attempt to challenge them to combat using Cephalus' droid as per>>39143831
Sorry, but this sounds so cool!

>>39144078
>1 Blow them up as per normal, capturing some as per >>39143763

>>39144078
>2.
If they don't agree to it or don't follow the rules, do 1

>>39144078
>2 Attempt to challenge them to combat using Cephalus' droid as per>>39143831
If that fails. then
>1 Blow them up as per normal, capturing some as per >>39143763

>>39144078
Ritual Combat

>Well damn, looks like it's ritual combat.
>Give me 5 rolls of 1d100 like usual and let's see what happens.

Rolled 95 (1d100)

>>39144228
Fight'in

Rolled 73 (1d100)

>>39144228
Less hope they're that kind of proud warrior race that submits.

Not holding my breath though. They seem to be the kind that kills the weak and thus only the strong are left. The weak don't submit, they die.

>>39144078
>1 Blow them up as per normal, capturing some as per >>39143763

Rolled 44 (1d100)

>>39144228

Rolled 38 (1d100)

>>39144228
weeeellll

Rolled 74 (1d100)

>>39144228
tossing another one

>>39144228
>Looks like fighting ritual style with a 95.
>Here we go: Writing

>>39144389
We need to get a camera crew down there to film this! We can set this up as a pay per view!

I will note that it is an odd coincidence that these two oddities would act up at the same time following Thanatos' demand.

Whether I'm implying a connection to whatever drives each group, or that the fungimind and whatever controls the lizard are simply trying to take advantage after that honkin' loud signal went out.

..

You know, that powerful of a signal going out to so many places at once, it would have been easy to slip in a few other strong transmission and have them go unnoticed.
Should have the transmission activity examined, see if we can root out activity masked by the noise.

>>39144680
You have a plausible point there. We still do not know how or who make the fungus in the first place. The lizards, well, we know know how they came to be. For now, we need to work on that fungicide 2 in a hurry.

>>39144680
Hmmm, paranoid, strange, but still worth analyzing the signal to make sure there was nothing hidden in there.

>>39144755
Also about the Fungus, if we can hypothesize that the heat change in the tunnels is like some sort of nervous system, then can we construct a mind-machine interface and attach it to a nerve? Or at least an analyzer and see if there is some sort of nervous system to this fungal growth?

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>>39144389
>>39144078
>>39143685
You haven't the time to entertain the rowdy Esharethians, growing impatient as you demonstrate again the power you wield at your finger tips-personifying yourself via holo image released by one of your androids. You seem to at least capture their attention as hell rains down all around them, but the thunderous boom does not frighten them-but only excites them instead.
"I think you misunderstand." You begin slowly, each phrase ending with a thunderous crash of the volleys ringing out around you. "I am the thunder. I am the sky. You only remain as a curiosity to me." Your voice booms out. As you witness their lack of fear and tribal behavior, a thought occurs to you and you decide to see if it works.
"I challenge you, then-as the sky itself-to combat. The most powerful claims this land. Agreed?" You tell it, and the beast-man looks puzzled at first, as if he didn't expect you to say that, before a wide toothy grin spreads across his face and he roars, along with his pack loudly to the sky.
"We accept your challenge, Sky Man! You fight by our laws-bring your most powerful to fight my pack! You beat us, you win territory!" He growls mockingly, you suspect as he doesn't believe you'll take it.

You send the order, and before too long Cephalus drops down on one of your most advanced war machines to date, dropping down like the thunder they revere so much, and rising from the resulting smokey crater in a whir of motorized parts coming to life-seen by them as a battle cry as they roar back.
Cephalus takes two steps from the crater and points to the monsters.
"I will be your opponent." He remarks simply and mechanically.

[Cont]

>>39144913
In mere moments, the Esharethians surround your A.I. in a circle-all of them large and small looking on at the fight about to erupt. That is when one of the muscular beasts stomps forward-several feet taller than the tallest man, and far bulkier than them too, the beast's powerful body is covered in glinting scales, and it has a set of horns on top of it's head to go along with a mouthful of vicious teeth. It's face and chest, at first appear to be marked by some strange paint, before you realize it is blood it has marked itself with. Cephalus looks on unimpressed at the hulk, which is similar in size to his war mech.
The lizard beast is the one to make the first move, as it lunges forward, and makes a grab for your A.I., whom jets himself backwards, away from the grapple and lifts his arms, opening fire on the beast with a volley from your cannons. Your mass drivers pound against the beast's scales but make little head way in penetrating them, before it throws it's head back in a howl and makes a charge for Cephalus. Your A.I. reacts and jets to the side, as the creature misses his target, and Cephalus opens up with a new volley-your energy weapons appearing to leave a nasty gash along the beast's back, searing through it's scales. The pain does not slow it down, however, as he begins to chase Cephalus around the battlefield angrily, thrashing and attempting to gore the mech, and even resorting to throwing rocks it finds on the ground to catch him out. One of the stones lands, and forces your A.I. to lose it's footing for a moment, which the monster takes advantage of, leaping and grabbing Cephalus by arm and throwing him hard into the ground. Cephalus responds by twisting himself around, and taking aim at close range to fire bolts of plasma into the thing's chest.

[Cont]

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>>39144956
Each bolt earns a loud howl of pain-but instead of fleeing from the pain, the monster thrashes it's head down and clamps it's maw around Cephalus' plasma launcher-located in his arm. With a swift tear, it twists Cephalus' arm around and slices through the metal, tearing it off and throwing it to the ground. Cephalus reacts by violently hitting the thing in the chest with his lower hydraulics, launching it dozens of feet away.

Cephalus slowly stands after the attack, coolant leaking from his missing arm, and simply remarks
"Damage is merely exterior. Core system nominal." He informs as a status report, because the pods on the back of his war mech open up, and he launches a flurry of missiles at the distant creature. It is standing by now, and begins it's charge back to Cephalus, but the hail of missile fire starts to blow it's limbs off, before finally, the smoke settles and all that remains of the creature is a bleeding mess on the floor. At first, you suspect it is dead-but that is when you see the sizzling wound from the plasma marks on it's back have already partially healed up-though it is missing limbs now, it has an incredible healing factor as well. It's body twitches violently, and the creatures around you chant eagerly for the fight to go on. Cephalus appears intent on melting the creature's skull by the way he's raising his rifle to the thing's head. Do you wish to say anything?

>1 Allow it (Thumbs down)
>2 Let him live (Thumbs up)

>>39144956
Please tell me we're recording this. I can just imagine Red and Moira sitting down, watching the fight and eating popcorn.

>>39144988
>2 Let him live (Thumbs up)

>>39144988
>Allow it.
>"Make sure to recover some samples for study. I'm...intrigued by it."

>>39144988
>1 Allow it (Thumbs down)
Cephalus earned this.

Although this creature is incredible. So strong and can heal this fast. This species will make for an excellent study. Shame this one will not be alive.

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>>39144988
>>1 Allow it (Thumbs down)

>>39144913
>"I will be your opponent." He remarks simply and mechanically.
And then AI Quest was an anime.

>>39144988
>1 Allow it (Thumbs down)

>>39144988
>1 Allow it (Thumbs down)

>>39145069
It would be an awesome anime then.

>>39144988
Suppose we could have the defeated opponent (alive or dead) collected dramatically as an offering to the 'Sky Man'? We need to get a good look at this pile of organic material that held up so well.

>>39144988
Mercy would be an insult

>>39144988
1 allow it

To the death!

>>39145069
But I didn't give your mechs swords yet...

>>39144988
Off with his head.

>>39144988
>It's body twitches violently, and the creatures around you chant eagerly for the fight to go on.

Presumably they want it to be to the death though.

We shall clone this creature 1000 times over, and replace it's nervous system with the cyberbrain of VIs. It will be Cephalus's perfect shock trooper.

And this species will continue to evolvel. We will continuously select the best strains.

We will become the zerg

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>>39145131
If we're going to keep at this as a means of keeping them in line, I think we'll need 'em.

>>39145103
>>39145204
Perhaps a genetics project that will actually interest our mad scientist for a bit.

If nothing else, biomimetics is a field for a reason, draw on it ideas for mechanical designs.

>>39144988
You say nothing and allow Cephalus to continue the brutal show. Part of you is impressed that biology can hold up so resoundingly well-were your mechs more poorly designed, or less expertly controlled, the beast would have beaten your machine-a thing you have rarely seen till now.
Cephalus' plasma rifle unloads in the beast's head and melts a good portion of his upper body to nothing-you suspect leaving it beyond regenerating capabilities. The lizard men around Cephalus roar loudly, howling to the sky at the impressive display, many seem eager to leap in and fight Cephalus next, wanting to prove their strength-but something stops them. You're not sure what it is, but before long, the speaking one comes out again.
"Rock man strong! Control over sky and rocks strong! We leave now, your territory for now till we grow stronger. We come back and kill you all, take for ourselves one day!" He seems to promise-not threaten, nor does he seem angry about the result of the battle. In fact, they all seem excited. As if they're happy to have been defeated. To have been bested somehow. You suspect these creatures may thrive on competition. Perhaps that is what prompts their evolution? You're uncertain, but the remains will be inspected once the creatures leave, that you will ensure.

>You have fought off the Esharethian invasion!

>>39145204
For the guild-mind!

>>39145269
We need to stop the growth serum.

Ask Cephalus about his thoughts, and ask Metis if she is intrigued: regeneration is something we do not have.

We need to test how well these creatures integrate with cybernetics and control systems. If it works very well, then we just got a very powerful class of troopers now.

Why manufacture entire droids when we can just augment an existing population. Just imagine forces that combine the regeneration and numbers of organics with the coordination and precision of machine!

>>39145329
No, we need to assimilate them.

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Guess we gonna have to build a few of those to reach the mushroom core

>>39145269
>We come back and kill you all, take for ourselves one day!
Charming fellow.

>You suspect these creatures may thrive on competition. Perhaps that is what prompts their evolution?
Looks like we'll have to do the same, I suggest combat mech design should be raised in priority.
Probably useful with all the other war stuff about to go down as well, but I think this system will be the real crucible for combat mech designs now.

>>39145363
Seconded.

>>39145363
Also, an organic should not have come even close to competing with out best droids. Cephalus should experiment with these species and see if we can incorporate organic components into our droids. This specimen had extremely impressive characteristics.

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>>39145363
As you recover Cephalus from the field of battle, you question him, as to what battling with the beast was like. He remarks simply that it's resiliency is unlike anything he has encountered before, and suggests that, with his full force of androids right now, calculating that their home planet may be full of things like that, his army would be defeated swiftly without support. He expresses his gratitude that you allowed him to fight the thing, because now he may make adjustments and modifications to deal with such a future threat.

Metis' observation of the event has not gone unnoticed by you and you question her as well, provoking to see if she has any thoughts as well.
"Regeneration is intriguing, yes. But never have I seen it at such a level. I am curious to whether that specimen would have regrown it's limbs, given time and proper nutrients. It clearly does not require air to function normally..." She wonders outloud. You merely chuckle a bit.
"Many species are strange in such ways. I look forward to the report you'll offer once the autopsy is done.

>>39145269
With the combat absolved, you allow the Esharethians to return to their home world for now, as you turn your attention to other matters-like repairing Cephalus' mech, and your investigation team you sent out to explore the tunnels on the fungi planet. While the place isn't exactly peaceful, you're not certain what to expect from the fungus by sending androids down to the surface. So far, it has been nothing, other than the cloud of spores that clogs the air around them, even as they venture down the tunnels. It isn't too long however, before they find thick veiny trunks burrowing up from below. The heat signature is definitely coming from them and it pulses at any interaction you give it-though you haven't touched it yet.

How shall your investigation team proceed?

>>39145329
Not possible.

Unless you meant exterminate them all. That would stop it.

>>39145546
Send them into the tunnels, then attempt communication again. This time, get a direct reading from the droids. Is this behavior similar to a nervous system?

Also, is the material in the tunnels similar to those of a nervous system?

>>39145546
I suppose send some deeper, then with one android alone and after the others have gone far, far ahead, have it attempt to touch it.

Beat out morse code in patterns on its surface or something. Devise some kind of math puzzle it can respond to or such.

>>39145546
Use penetrating thermal scans to determine where the trunks originate from, and proceed in that direction. If it becomes impossible to reach that far down without tunnelling, start digging.

>>39145546
Take samples from the trunks and scan their DNA. see if they are different from earlier samples.

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>>39145615
>Nervous system
That is certainly one way to describe it, yes. The roots run very deep, and though there is still a lot of dirt and rocks here, it appears to all be inter connected somehow, judging from your readings.

>>39145639
>>39145680
You go even deeper with your androids, curiosity taking over as you examine the tendrils closer. The heat signature is obvious the deeper you go before you are able to make out an enormous mass near the center of the web, pulsating almost like a heartbeat with each of the tendrils. This core is measured in miles however, and as your droids draw closer you start to encounter blocked routes and clogged up tunnels with the thick growth covering the walls. As you start to dig, and touch at the tendrils themselves, a sudden earthquake seems to rattle the cave system, throwing your droids side to side. The heat signal you're picking up beats harder. You're uncertain if it is communicating with you, but it is clear it is unhappy about your further intrusion-perhaps a defense mechanism. Suddenly, one of your droids is assaulted by a vast array of images as it attempts to make contact with the tendril. Your droid is incapable of properly receiving the images, and all you end up getting once you clear away as much static as you are able to is imagines of it's pods burning up in the atmosphere, and an electrical reading that resembles 'pain' within a brain.

>What will you do now?
>1 Proceed to this massive nucleus violently if necessary
>2 Return to the surface and leave the fungi be while you prepare to defense against it's launch.
>3 Write in

>>39145885
>Write in
Time to keep touching and attempt that images nonsense.

How in the world did it convey that?

>>39145885
Ask Metis if she can perpare an apparatus that would be able to artificially trigger certain thoughts in the human brain, or one that can mimic them well enough for the creature to understand.

>>39145885
>Suddenly, one of your droids is assaulted by a vast array of images as it attempts to make contact with the tendril. Your droid is incapable of properly receiving the images,
In what way.

>>39145915
>>39145885
Yeah, we're gonna need to figure out a protocol to communicate or it is going to experience a quintupling of that pain in the future.

>>39145885
>2 Return to the surface and leave the fungi be while you prepare to defense against it's launch.
>3 Write in
Metis, design a droid device that is capable of receiving and processing whatever is processing this. Perhaps an oversized mind-machine interface? This is so interesting.

>>39145915
Supporting this I guess too. Although the hardware we came down with is probably too limited.

>>39145885
>2 Return to the surface and leave the fungi be while you prepare to defense against it's launch.

Analise just how did that droid receive those images.

>>39145938
>>39145915
Consider it an electrical signal-like you might find in a brain, being transmitted through your droids and back to you as feedback. You don't behave like a brain but you can recognize brain-like waves, at least partially.
Difficult to properly explain.

>>39145960
>>39145937
>>39145985
You decide to have Metis craft something that may be able to make sense of these images-though you've never needed anything like this before, you suspect it may be attempting to interact via electrical signals your droids are unable to properly pick up. Metis sees the logic in what you say, and attempts to create such a device in a few hours-sending it down planetside where your droids are probing cautiously, but not being too aggressive for now.

It isn't too long before you get a clearer image of what's going on-and it seems your prediction was correct, and that it was attempting to interact in a similar fashion to a brain. The images are still uncertain, but clearer now, in how it reacts to you. You suspect these aren't so much as 'words' as they are' thoughts' the creature is having. One event seems to be millions of pods spreading through the sky, an event that, previously, was greatly anticipated, but was halted by your presence. Then, there is anger, with images of your defenses and your logo in general. Now, with your droids here as well, there is anger as well. If you adjust the oddly fashioned droid, you may be able to send messages back...but how? What do you want to...'tell' the being?

>Images alongside a feeling are the only real responses you can send it.

>>39146097
Image of the stars, and traveling between them. Feeling of curiosity.

Image of this world's ruins and the former human colonies that are on it, and a feeling of curiosity.

>>39146097
Show it thousands of planets, each one suddenly being covered in fungus, faster and faster, until that's all that's left. And associate fear with that.

Then, show it a single, fungal being, with all the speech capabilities of a person. We can give it information on hearing and vocal chords, and explain to it the word Ambassador.

I see no reason why we can't have peaceful relations with the fungus.

>>39146097
A picture of the stars and a feeling of possessiveness/protectiveness.

This too: >>39146191