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>>2230786
“Is that why Zeon tried to invade the Earth?”

You shake your head, almost more to clear your own bitter memories of the event. “What 'Zeon' the man failed to recognize was that the Zabis would exploit those insecurities he was too naive to see, in order to consolidate their own authority through empty promises of 'security' and 'freedom'. To that end they urged the production of ships, weapons, and soldiers... same as the Federation did on Earth.”

“They also feared losing their own power,” Rossweisse adds. “Political 'Left' and 'Right' became meaningless terms. All sides believed in conserving their existing power and institutions above all else.”

“For the Zabis that meant invasion,” Haman shrugs. “For the Federation that meant repression. It was written into the Charter after the attack on Laplace.”

“And so newtypes would be...” Quess mutters, trying to process all the new details.

“Adaptation,” Rossweisse declares. “Mental and physiological adaptation to space and its challenges, and to human insecurity.”

“Battle hastened our emergence, and so leaders often see us as weapons,” Haman continues bluntly. “It's easy to control us the same way as anyone else, by playing to our conflicted human emotions. We may have adapted, but the rest of society didn't keep pace with what we became capable of.”

“The Colony Transit Fleet isn't just about regulating the deployment of Newtypes and protecting them from exploitation,” you admit, resting your good eye for a moment as you shake the momentary guilt that you too were once so deceived and used, that there was a time you were proud to fight for Zeon. “It's meant to buy us time, until all of humanity has begun to realize its true potential... our hope as an organization is for our own eventual obsolescence.”

“But doesn't that rely on others too much?” Quess points out. “If war is foolish then wouldn't that make most humans fools for going along with them? How could you have faith in such people?”
>2/3

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>>2230793
“Perhaps you have a point,” Haman admits thoughtfully. “Perhaps humanity will always need people like us, to prevent foolish actions by foolish people. I'd be lying if I said I'd never considered it.”

“And I wouldn't call it faith,” you add. “There are plenty of genuine and kind-hearted people out there, so we can hope that those people will some day be in charge rather than taking it on blind faith.”

“We'll help where we can,” Rossweisse asserts.

“And if it takes too long, we'll have raised the next generation to carry the torch,” you conclude.

“And what happens when people don't understand you, or refuse to?”

“Kind-hearted people will always be capable of understanding us,” Haman reasons quietly, “so there can be negotiation in cases where we come into conflict with such people, even if it means we have to yield some ground here and there.”

“In the long run it's better to help each other out when we can,” you clarify, preempting the next question. “Mutual cooperation is often grounds for a more formal political alliance, or at very least de-confliction.”

“If cooperation is so important, then why does the Fleet pursue such powerful offensive weapons?”

>Our fleet is geared for exploration and escort duties, not for open and sustained warfare.
>Peace and a strong defense aren't mutually exclusive. In fact, a deterrent strategy can facilitate peace.
>Total pacifism is impracticable unless all parties are on the same page. That just isn't reality yet.
>Other?

>Total pacifism is impracticable unless all parties are on the same page. That just isn't reality yet.

Peacecraft can fuck right off.

>>2230796
>>Total pacifism is impracticable unless all parties are on the same page. That just isn't reality yet.
>>2230804
Preach

>>2230796
>>Total pacifism is impracticable unless all parties are on the same page. That just isn't reality yet.
There are other avenues that can be pursued first, like the CTF capability to isolate and blockade, but at the end of the day, it just comes back to that main point.

And the usage of said offensive weapons requires precision as well.

>>2230796
>>Total pacifism is impracticable unless all parties are on the same page. That just isn't reality yet.

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>>2230796
“Total pacifism is impracticable,” you assert, a tone of disappointment creeping into your voice. “At least when there are still factions who don't agree to it. Those who are still insecure will take a lack of consensus as an implicit threat, and will rearm.”

“That's where faith does play a role,” Rossweisse summarizes.

“Faith does?” Quess asks. “I thought we'd just agreed that faith was inferior to hope?”

“Not at all,” Haman shakes her head. “While misguided faith can be a problem, having faith in people is required for peace... because unlike natural phenomena or mathematics we can't observe the human mind. We can never truly know what's in someone else's heart and mind, and despite our greater insight and sensitivity that holds true for Newtypes as well.”

“We could of course be the ones to give up our weapons and defensive capabilities,” you admit with a frown, “but to do so would be unwise.”

“Is that insecurity speaking?”

You shake your head. “No. It's a recognition of the current climate, and of the fact that we can do much more at this time in history as an independent faction. Remaining independent in the face of widespread desire to use our abilities for political and military purposes demands that we be prepared to defend ourselves.”

“Then your own weapons will only be feared,” Quess asserts. “Your own technological strength combined with your innate abilities will make those who remain insecure even more afraid.”

“That is true, to an extent,” Haman admits. “However most governments were already afraid of us... we began our lives as soldiers, remember? That serves to validate their belief, correct or otherwise, that all Newtypes are an inherent threat. If not to their people, than to their own authority.”

“We can't just free ourselves of that.”

>Haman is correct. That's why we need to keep things as stable as possible until the generation that remembers the One Year War is gone.
>Haman is correct. We'll be docking soon, then you can see what exactly we've been responding to with our own design programs.
>Haman is only half-right. Even though humans still see each other as threats, we're rapidly becoming distant threats. That will buy us time to change people's minds.
>Other?

>>2230858
>>Haman is correct. That's why we need to keep things as stable as possible until the generation that remembers the One Year War is gone.
Or at least until the role of Newtypes in a peaceful world becomes sufficiently ingrained into society. To the point where mass benefit outweighs any perceived fears and preconceptions brought about by the OYW.

>>2230867
Yeah, this guy's got it.

>>2230858
supporting: >>2230867

Alright, back and writing. Had to check something quickly.

>>2230903
“Haman is correct,” you nod, offering her a faint but reassuring smile. “It will take a while for people to see a role for Newtypes in times of peace, instead of clinging to fear. Maybe it'll take everyone who can remember the One Year War dying to happen, maybe it'll happen sooner. I can't say.”

“But I do believe it'll happen, and we all have to do what we can to help.”

“Do you understand?” Rossweisse asks.

With some hesitation, Quess nods. “I think I do. But I also realize I'm inexperienced... I can't truly understand some of the things you've been through and how it shapes your way of thinking.”

“And I hope you don't have to experience some of those things,” you nod. “But for now, we'll continue preparing you for when it's your turn to make the difficult decisions.”

“Let's get something to eat,” Haman offers, punching the door release. “Come on, Quess.”

That leaves you some free time... but not much. Sericea's scheduled to be placed into orbit with La Vie en Rose in a few minutes, where you expect to catch up with them within the hour. She's the closest place to pick up fuel and ammunition which Sericea and her mobile suit compliment desperately need before any possible confrontation with the Vist Foundation. You could get a call in now to the La Vie en Rose's commanding officer, to either arrange a personal meeting while you're there or to coordinate logistics, or you could head down to the hangar deck and figure out what you want and need for your mobile suit teams.

Any of those could be a good use of time...

>Call the La Vie en Rose, figure out who their current commander is and consider arranging a meeting to discuss the Vists.
>Call La Vie en Rose, let them know what you'll need so this process will go as quickly and smoothly as possible.
>Head down to the hangars, take a full inventory and structural assessment of your weapons before reaching La Vie en Rose.
>Other?

>>2230918
>>Call the La Vie en Rose, figure out who their current commander is and consider arranging a meeting to discuss the Vists.

>>2230918
>>Call the La Vie en Rose, figure out who their current commander is and consider arranging a meeting to discuss the Vists.

Being polite is always useful. Also visits are more cozy than just hailing them.

>>2230918
>>Call the La Vie en Rose, figure out who their current commander is and consider arranging a meeting to discuss the Vists.

>>2230918
>>Call the La Vie en Rose, figure out who their current commander is and consider arranging a meeting to discuss the Vists.

Maybe a few eggheads there would be piqued with the psycommu jacking tech the Jovians tried to pull on us.

Though that'll leave some rather uncomfortable questions as to why, besides passing curiosity.

>3d10, taking the second roll only

Rolled 2, 2, 1 = 5 (3d10)

>>2230973

Rolled 3, 1, 5 = 9 (3d10)

>>2230973

Welp, that's unlucky.

>>2230976
>>2230977

Uhh, these rolls. Hopefully something not awful happens.

>>2230982
Is this your first Aphelion thread? We always get shat on by qstdice.

>>2230984
Not my first, but we are not crackbitch level. At least not yet.

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>>2230973
You decide to head to the secluded communications room near Sericea's bridge, and settle in for a call to La Vie en Rose. It's not entirely sure which would be better: seeing someone you know on the end of the line or someone you don't. But either way, it's your initial discussion with whoever it is in command of the station that will help you decide how to proceed.

The line buzzes twice before a secretary makes the connection. “Hello, who is calling? This is a restricted line.”

“CTF cutter Sericea, calling the commanding officer, La Vie en Rose,” you report. “Priority one, mission-critical.”

“Hang on,” the woman tells you, “I'll put you through, ma'am.”

“Much obliged.”

A few seconds later the video screen pops on, revealing a familiar face. A cute face, with blue eyes and a petite nose framed by short blonde hair. Her expression is just as earnest as you remember it, and she even uses that same shade of pink lipstick... though her outfit has changed to reflect a change in her position.

When she notices you that earnest smile fades a little. “Aw, fuckberries.”

“Emary, don't shut off that screen,” you insist quickly.

“I should've known it was you,” she sighs wearily, slouching in her seat. “Just my luck to have the Black Star knocking on my door again... so what's the plan this time? Espionage? Killing Titans officers?”

“Do you have any on hand?” you ask jokingly.

“No?”

“Then clearly there's nothing to worry about,” you insist. “Come on, you're acting like a visit from us is the worst thing that could possibly happen.”

After a moment, Emary Ounce seems to recover from her shock somewhat. “Fine, I guess that's not fair of me. You just... caught me at a bad time, that's all. I assume you need supplies and repairs?”

“You assume correctly,” you nod. “You okay with that?”

“Sure,” Emary nods thoughtfully. “We're in that business after all... anything else?”

>Nope, just the supplies and repairs.
>We wouldn't want to drag you into anything.
>We... need to speak with you in confidence. Our mission concerns you directly.
>Other?

>>2231024
>>Other?
>You just... caught me at a bad time
What's it about? If it's personal, no need to pry. If it involves someone higher up the Anaheim chain though, that might ring some alarm bells.

>>We... need to speak with you in confidence. Our mission concerns you directly.
Best keep it vague over the comm line for now.

>>2231052
I will support this. Maybe ask Emary for a coffee or something less official to discuss the things. She might open up a bit.

>>2231054
Yeah, let's do lunch or something.

>3d10, best of three

Rolled 7, 5, 8 = 20 (3d10)

>>2231088

Rolled 4, 6, 4 = 14 (3d10)

>>2231088

>>2231089
Oh, something good at last.

Rolled 8, 8, 5 = 21 (3d10)

>>2231088
>Emary

Rolled 1, 5, 9 = 15 (3d10)

>>2231088

>taking the 21

>apologies for the delay, but the wind outside is blowing freezing air THROUGH the gaps in my bedroom window
>so I had to pack it off with some towels and a spare comforter

>>2231144
What kind of a 3rd world housing are you living in, because frankly that is shoddy construction.

>>2231151
Fairly old apartment block in the UK, the rest of the building's been kept up and modernized but a lot of the windows in this area aren't double-glazed and airtight. That costs money and landlords are scum.

It's actually a serious problem in this country that nobody talks about, because nobody realizes it's a problem that could be easily solved if they'd just give up their fetish for deregulation.

>>2231161
“So what's going on?” you press quietly. “Can you talk about it?”

“Nothing's going on,” Emary insists... you don't have to be a newtype to tell she's lying.

“Look, let's meet after we've docked,” you suggest. “We can get caught up, discuss a few important things over coffee, maybe?”

“I'd like that, actually,” Emary replies, seemingly deciding on a course of action. “I'll come over to your ship and assess the damage to your mobile suit team and we can settle in to talk after that. Sound good?”

You realize that look in her eyes, that tone she's taken... she doesn't want to come aboard Sericea to catch up. That's the impression of a woman who's been backed into a corner. You get the feeling she's sincere in her desire to help you, now that she's not surprised you're even here, but she's also looking for a way to escape.

“Alright, I'll put the coffee on,” you nod carefully. “Any sugar or milk?”

Emary shakes her head. “No, just black will do. How long until you arrive?”

“ALICE, estimate?” you ask.

“Forty-four minutes,” your AI compatriot declares. “I could request Rossweisse to accelerate if you would like to cut that time short?”

“That won't be necessary,” you shake your head, “but thank you. Emary, you got that?”

“Of course, Captain,” she nods, offering you a quick salute. “See you shortly.”

>You still have some time to look over your supply and repair needs.
>Shift your focus to possible upgrades or new kit for your mobile suit.
>Meet with Rossweisse and mention what happened with Emary just now.
>Other?

>>2231188
>>Meet with Rossweisse and mention what happened with Emary just now.

>>2231188
>>Meet with Rossweisse and mention what happened with Emary just now.

>>2231188
>>Meet with Rossweisse and mention what happened with Emary just now.
Can we ask Rossweisse to do the supply and repair needs while we are chatting with Emary if she has the time?

>>2231188
>>Meet with Rossweisse and mention what happened with Emary just now.

>>2231188
You don't even bother to send Rossweisse a message, she's just a bulkhead away from you after all. Instead you direct your attention to her, silently urging her towards you. A few seconds later the door opens.

“Something wrong?”

“Yeah,” you nod, “it's about Emary Ounce.”

“Emary Ounce?” Rossweisse repeats, and you practically kick yourself for forgetting that the two of them have never been properly introduced.

“Current commander of La Vie en Rose, and an old acquaintance,” you clarify, “she worked on the original GP project before you met any of us.”

“I see,” Rossweisse nods quietly, taking a seat at the small conference table with you. “And?”

“Her attitude is... different,” you explain. “Tenser somehow, like something was wrong on her end and she didn't want to talk about it.”

“Like someone was listening?” Rossweisse guesses.

You nod in quiet agreement. “Yes, that's entirely possible. She requested to come aboard our ship rather than having us deboard... that's also unusual for her, and for Anaheim staff in general, though she was careful not to say anything to arouse suspicion.”

“Her demeanor tipped you off?”

“Exactly.”

“Well then I agree with this plan” Rossweisse insists.

“She'll be coming aboard immediately,” you tell your partner. “I'd like to meet with her over coffee, privately if possible, but I'd like you to be there too.”

“Anyone else?”

>No, we'll keep this hush-hush.
>Maybe bring Cima into the fold. She has a good sense for duplicity.
>Haman should come over from Sadalahn.
>Other?

>>2231241
>>Other: Let Haman know, but she'll be on standby with the Sadalahn.
I'd prefer Haman in the Sadalahn so there's at least a ship and high end MS ready to respond while the Sericea is (presumably) docked with the La Vie en Rose.

Are we resupplying in shifts, or can the Rose do that for both ships simultaneously?

>>2231262
Hmm...This guy has a good point.

>>2231262
La Vie en Rose has the capacity to deal with two ships of the sizes you're considering. Remember that Sericea is an unusually small ship, and Sadalahn is cruiser-sized rather than what she was in ZZ.

>>2231241
>>No, we'll keep this hush-hush.
>>Other?
But we could have Cima monitoring with help of ALICE the conversation if plausible. I am not a friend of showing our lovely pirate friend to outsiders willy nilly.

>>2231291
So both ships can essentially be anchored huh. Neato.

Maybe I'm just overthinking this and anticipating something happening since this kinda leaves the ships vulnerable.

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>>2231291
“Please signal Haman and ask her to hold her position for now,” you ask your partner. “Suggest that we have to make final arrangements with miss Ounce before docking and allowing their techs aboard our ships.”

“I follow you,” Rossweisse nods before disappearing down the corridor outside.

“ALICE, please monitor our conversation and transmit details to Cima,” you add, thinking of one final detail. “We'll be taking Emary Ounce to the VIP salon for coffee, so that's the room to tap. Think you can handle it?”

There's a momentary pause. “Who do you think you are speaking to?”

“I'll take that as a yes.”

Thirty-five minutes later Sericea begins her deceleration burn as La Vie en Rose comes into clear view, a massive round station with robotic arms and docking umbilicals stretching out towards you like the roots of a vast metallic tree. ALICE projects a course onto your viewscreen as she handshakes with the station's flight controller, and the AI and Rossweisse work together to execute a perfect docking maneuver with one of the mechanical limbs.

When you meet Emary by the airlock, her expression darkens. “I'm sorry, Captain, but this really wasn't a great time for you to be here. Hopefully we can avoid any problems.”

“So it's serious,” you nod. “Thanks for taking precautions on our behalf... we don't want to cause any trouble for you.”

“I understand,” Emary nods grimly, “but I fear just being here makes it trouble for us.”

“How so?”

“The higher-ups recently had security systems installed aboard my ship,” Emary explains as you lead her deeper into your ship. “Or so they said... there's no need for that many cameras and microphones. What they really did is bug the everloving hell out of us.”

Now it makes sense. How much do you want to bet that was the work of the Vist Foundation, trying to keep greater control over their investments at Anaheim?

“Certainly seems so, sister,” you mutter.

“I'm sorry?” Emary asks in confusion.

>Emary, you and I need to skip the technical analysis and discuss what Anaheim's done aboard your ship.
>Emary, I need to explain our mission to you. Your ship was already involved long before we came here.
>We'll maintain the image for now, look over our mobile suits. Maybe we can even come up with some new ideas for them while we're making a show of it.
>Other?

>>2231352
>>We'll maintain the image for now, look over our mobile suits. Maybe we can even come up with some new ideas for them while we're making a show of it.

>>2231352
>>Emary, I need to explain our mission to you. Your ship was already involved long before we came here.
>>We'll maintain the image for now, look over our mobile suits. Maybe we can even come up with some new ideas for them while we're making a show of it.

>>2231352
On one hand, this is the best time to give Ounce the chance to bounce. But on the other, there's plenty of unknowns to consider.

>>Emary, I need to explain our mission to you. Your ship was already involved long before we came here.
>>We'll maintain the image for now, look over our mobile suits. Maybe we can even come up with some new ideas for them while we're making a show of it.
Biding time it is.

>3d10, DC 19, crit 23
>gusts are now topping 60mph here, temperature is right around freezing

Rolled 5, 4, 5 = 14 (3d10)

>>2231416

Rolled 8, 3, 8 = 19 (3d10)

>>2231416
Fucking hell that weather.

Rolled 9, 6, 4 = 19 (3d10)

>>2231416

Rolled 7, 1, 6 = 14 (3d10)

>>2231416
Don't get murdered by General Winter, boss.

double nineteens, nice.

>writing

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>>2231461
“We were just thinking that if what you say is true, your ship was involved long before we arrived here,” you explain quietly. “But we need to maintain the image for now. We'll show you down to the hangar deck, and you can examine our machines, then we'll adjourn to speak in private.”

“Agreed,” Emary nods. You can see resolve in her eyes, but you can also sense her trepidation. She's neither a corporate shark nor a soldier, she's an experienced technician. Excellent at what Anaheim does out here, and doubtless perfectly qualified to lead in an administrative capacity, but you're not sure whether she's ever dealt with such a political showdown before.

You lead her into the hangar, which you realize is rather cramped compared to the workspace most mobile suit technicians are used to having available. Emary mirrors your thoughts not five seconds later.

“Figured the hangar would be small on such a small ship,” she muses, taking in the details with the trained eye of an experienced mechanical engineer. “I guess it was an experiment in how small you could keep the facilities and still have it be useful?”

You nod. “We could've fit a smaller hangar into a 32-meter warship, but that would be too limiting. We wanted a decent weapons loadout and space for a catapult... on much smaller a ship you'd have to orient the hangar in-line with the axis of thrust, making it cumbersome in gravity too.”

“And limiting you to... what, a single mobile suit, probably?”

You chuckle to yourself as you show her to your mobile suits. “You're correct, of course. That's the same conclusion our own in-house engineers came to.”

“So these are your mobile suits?” she muses, getting a good look at the two. “One's clearly not yours... a support type? When'd you guys pick up a team player?”

“When they met me,” you hear Bianca interrupt from the foot of her machine, having overheard Emary's comments and turned to approach you. “Who's the new girl?”

“Emary Ounce, Captain of La Vie en Rose,” Emary introduces herself. “I haven't had the pleasure?”

“Hm?” Bianca muses before realizing the question there. “Oh right... Bianca Caryle. Guess you could call me the rookie here.”

“EFF veteran,” you add. “She helped us out in a messy situation on a colony about a week ago, was it?”

“Something like that,” Bianca shrugs. “FTL is a hell of a drug.”
>1/2

>>2231520
“You're not skeptical of an Anaheim Captain coming aboard?” Emary asks curiosuly.

“Nah. If the Skipper thought you were a problem you wouldn't be standing here.”

“I see...” Emary chuckles grimly. “I suppose that's true. So, this second machine is yours then?”

You nod. “The newest model of Viola... built by Anaheim's von Braun facility.”

“Von Braun?” Emary repeats, furrowing her brow. “That's irregular. We don't usually let our in-house models... well, out of the house.”

“This is a special beast,” you explain. “Fully mission-adaptable, using the miniaturized reactor technology developed by Mrs. Purpleton.”

“So, Nina finally tied the knot?” Emary sighs. “Well, suppose it was bound to happen eventually. I can remember back when she still wouldn't talk to... well, to anyone. Good on her for becoming less of a pain in everyone's collective ass.”

“Anyway, full psychframe, modular construction, the works,” you conclude, “and one feature that only we can use.”

“And what's that?” Emary asks.

Viola's eyes snap on, glowing a brilliant emerald green as the external speakers give her an answer. “EEET EEEES ALIIIIIVE!”

Emary practically jumps out of her skin, rushing to stand behind you as everyone else in the hangar laughs their asses off... despite the fact that the first time your sister did this most of them were the same way. It's funny because it's someone else.

“It's fine!” you chuckle warmly. “That's just my sister, Catrina. Wave hi, sis!”

Catrina waves Viola's hand jovially, and Emary breathes a sigh of relief. “Wow, you shouldn't scare me like that! You're just as mean as ever...”

Then she notices the cockpit hatch is open... and no one is inside. Her eyes widen and a shiver runs up her spine.

“My sister is a 'ghost' composed of mental patterns that have taken up residence in the unused portions of my brain, effectively sharing my body,” you explain succinctly, in terms that a technically-minded woman can easily digest. “She can essentially upload herself into the AI storage matrix in Viola's head, piloting it for me, coordinating functions, handling mobile weapons. It's a level of flexibility no one else can use.”

“But... how?” Emary chokes over her words.

“My glass eye has psychommu material embedded in it,” you explain.
>2/3

>>2231559
“I... think I might need something stiffer than coffee,” Emary mutters, letting you escort her from the hangar. “Just... I need to see the damage reports.”

“Bianca, be a pal and send those to the VIP salon?” you ask, and your response is a salute and a smirk.

“Aye aye, ma'am.”

“This... this is a lot to take in,” Emary admits as you pour her a cup of fresh coffee. “I mean, newtypes are one thing... but you just told me that ghosts are real.”

“In a sense,” you shrug. “I hope that also explains the unusual use of pronouns.”

“Yeah, I was gonna ask. So, you... want to improve on that thing?”

>If you have any ideas we're all ears.
>Let's stick to repairs for the time being.
>Before that... 'Vist'. Mean anything to you?

>>2231574
>If you have any ideas we're all ears.

>>2231574
>>Before that... 'Vist'. Mean anything to you?

>>2231574
>>Before that... 'Vist'. Mean anything to you?
Business before pleasure.

>>2231574
>>Before that... 'Vist'. Mean anything to you?

>>2231574
>>Before that... 'Vist'. Mean anything to you?
Probably leave the nasty details for the secure room.

>>2231574
“Does the name 'Vist' mean anything to you?” you ask her abruptly... if you ambush her like this, you reason, she's less likely to self-edit.

“Yeah, that's the last name of the guy who married our boss,” she replies calmly. “Why?”

“You know nothing about the Vist family?”

Emary shakes her head. “I promise you, I don't. Does it have to do with your mission?”

“How much do you like widespread corruption and government conspiracy?” you ask.

“About as much as I like a bad hangover,” Emary tells you.

“Then it's a good thing you're sitting down,” you sigh. “Let me tell you about the Vist Foundation...”

>Tell her everything, including Laplace.
>Only tell her what she needs to know.

>>2231649
>>Tell her everything, including Laplace.
Show her how deep the rabbit hole goes.

>>2231649
>>Tell her everything, including Laplace.

>>2231649
>Tell her everything, including Laplace.

>>2231649
>Tell her everything, including Laplace.

>>2231649
You tell her everything.

About how the Vist Foundation's patriarch was among the terrorists who blew up Laplace colony in a coup, and seized the last copy of the original UC charter in existence. About how they blackmailed the new Federation's Prime Minister. About how he amassed so much wealth and influence he bought and weaponized a two-kilometer helium carrier as a personal project. About how the Vists have been paying and colluding their way throughout the solar system to maintain their power, and about how they've been deeply involved in the finances of terror groups over the last few months and years.

But you also share details of Syam's gift to the Grim Guard, and his belief that you and the rest of your unit could help to guide humanity down a different path than what the Federation and Zeon had in mind.

Through it all Emary Ounce remains silent. Then, finally, she speaks her mind.

“I get why they'd bug our ship now... we engineers have always been willing to give you everything we could. The days of the Gundam Development Project, your time in Titans, your independent operations... even now, with the Woundwort project and terraforming plans.”

“What are you saying?” you ask, wondering just what Emary is driving at.

“It may be against protocol, but I'd have given you that gundam too if it were my decision,” she explains. “Any of us would, because you're just like us. You're problem-solvers, not soldiers, and it's because of that we've always felt we could trust you with what we build. That's why this Vist Foundation is so paranoid about you... they're the problem, and they know we'd gladly help you to find a solution to them.”

“Are you saying you'll support us?” you press cautiously. “That's dangerous, there's no way you don't know that.”

“All the same, if half of what you've said is true then confronting them is the right thing to do,” Emary insists, “and you guys have the skills to do it.”

“So, Captain Carya Marseille-O'Hara,” Emary grins, rising to her feet and setting her cup aside. “Let's talk about what we here at Anaheim can do for you...”

>>2231728
And that's where I'll have to call it quits for the evening. Thanks for stopping by, and I'll post on Twitter and my discord server when I plan to continue.

There will also be a rather unusual omake some time this week: a crossover between SoZ and SSQ where the two respective MCs meet. Now, hear me out... the premise is actually something I'd pondered in SSQ months ago, but never really followed through on, and it just so happens that it's the only sensible scenario where Riku and Carrina would ever meet.

So you can look forward to that too. Whichever quest that ends up in, I'll link to it in the other.

>>2231744
Thank you for running King. I hope the weather turns better fast.

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>Omake: Crossover
“So who are you supposed to be?” Carya Marseille asks the unusual apparition that had surprised her in her own quarters. It's like something out of a costume drama, black hakama and a white haori complete with two swords sitting at her waist. If this was supposed to be the image of an old woman she had aged with all the grace of a goddess, with thick full hair of a luxuriant white and not a wrinkle or blemish to be seen.

“Ah, you can see me after all,” the woman replies warmly. “I was beginning to wonder after all these years whether humans had simply lost the ability to do so.”

“That didn't answer my question,” Carya insists sternly, reaching for her sidearm. “Please.”

“I am Captain Kusajishi Riku, a shinigami,” the woman clarifies, “and I must admit my frustration with you and your organization despite my admiration of you personally.”

“Oh?” Carya muses, her hand easing away from the grip of her pistol. “And if you are some kind of “death god” then why do you care about me and my comrades?”

“We were just beginning to get a better handle on the fact that humanity had colonized space when the One Year War broke out,” the apparition explains, taking a seat at the foot of the living Captain's bed. “So much death made our task of protecting the living that much harder... nearly impossible actually, even for me and my wife.”

“Okay, so... run that by us again?” Carrina ask, their eye having subtly shifted colors.

“Ooh, I love it when you do that!” Riku purrs in delight. “Welcome, Catrina Marseille, to the conversation. Two souls in one living body... that never gets old.”

“You were about to explain?” Carrina insist again.

The self-proclaimed shinigami puts one fingertip to her forehead in a display of concentration.

“Think of 'hollows' as an unanticipated and unwelcome spoke within the wheel of reincarnation,” Riku explains, lowering her hand to unfasten her zanpakuto and set them carefully at her side. “They are invisible monsters which prey upon human souls. My task and that of my immediate comrades, a motley crew of powerful spiritual beings, are responsible for dealing with hollow presence beyond the confines of Earth's gravity.”

“Same way rats spread with the early explorers in the Pacific,” Carrina nod thoughtfully.

“That is a remarkably apt comparison, aside from a question of size and ferocity,” Riku smiles.
>1/3

>>2234473
“Rossweisse likes to read to us before bedtime,” Carrina joke. “Her choice of material runs towards the dry.”

“Useful though,” Riku shrugs.

“Speaking of things Rossweisse talks about sometimes, there were a lot of reports during the war about shinigami sightings. Were any of those...”

“Legitimate?” Riku asks.

“We always believed they saw something, it was more a question of what exactly they saw,” Carrina clarify.

“Those sightings were all of large hollows, a possibility that exists under extreme stress,” Riku explains carefully. “A war bordering on genocidal would seem perfect for producing such aberrations... the last time such a thing occurred was during the Third World War.”

“How old are you?” Carrina ask with a frown. “We can't tell based on your looks.”

“Well, the Universal Century began in 2053 by the old calendar,” Riku sighs, almost wistfully. “Fifty-two years after... after a certain incident you do not need to know about. By my count I was about one hundred and eighty by then... carry the seven... should be right around three hundred and fifty? But like they say, age is just a number.”

“And so what are you, exactly?” Carrina press. “Some manner of ghost?”

“I am only dead in the sense that I am not alive in the physical sense,” Riku explains carefully. “We exist on a plane of being parallel to that of the living world of Earth.”

“Okay, so... let's say we believe you to that point,” Carrina sigh dramatically, collapsing into her desk chair. “Why are you here?”

“I am sure you can guess the reason if you try,” Riku grins playfully.

Carrina consider the question for a few moments. “This plane of yours doesn't have lift vehicles capable of interstellar travel.”

“Exactly!” Riku cheers. “We rely on you newtypes entirely for our ability to move to and from the outlying star systems.”

“How have we not noticed you?” Carrina demand, seemingly uncomfortable about the news.

“Most of our highest-level fighters are capable of disguising our presence, and those of small units of our weaker fighters. But there have been an uncomfortable number of close calls.”

“So you're here to work out a deal?” Carrina realize immediately. “On what terms?”

“No terms,” Riku shakes her head calmly. “We just continue going about our respective duties... I may drop in on you from time to time to chat.”
>2/3

>>2234485
“Just to chat?”

Riku sighs sadly. “I have been alone on your ship for three weeks with only my swords to talk to.”

“You talk to your swords?” Carrina ask in surprise.

“That is how it is supposed to work,” Riku reassures her fellow Captain. “It is complicated, but our swords are intelligent beings... or rather, some of them are intelligent. My Tenkotsuki and Kobara no Tachi certainly are, but many others are idiots.”

“Then we just have one more question,” Carrina conclude.

“Yes?”

“What happens to us humans after we die? And is it any different for newtypes?”

Riku's expression darkens. “That would be telling, Captain. However... what I will tell you is that you and those closest to you have nothing to fear from death. In fact, I can promise you that much.”

Carrina nod. “We understand. Will we be speaking again soon?”

“I have business on Tau Ceti with my wife,” Riku explains. “But we will meet again.”

“Then we're looking forward to it. Good luck, Captain.”

“Same to you, Captain.”

Long after Kusajishi Riku had disappeared from the sisters' view, they continue to gaze at the floor, deep in thought. Considering the facts of the matter, what they've seen and heard, what it means in the broadest possible scheme of things, and coming to the only possible conclusion.

“You're still here, aren't you.”

“Yeah, sorry. Is there anything fun to do on this ship?”

>“You're still here, aren't you.”

>“Yeah, sorry. Is there anything fun to do on this ship?”
Snrk

I was honestly anticipating that this omake will somehow involve Carrina on her death bed and a very old Riku performing the soul burial rites. And the experience being interpreted as just the typical Newtype dream shenanigans.

Boy am I glad that I'm only right on one part.

I reckon Urahara would take a shot at connecting Senkaimon gates to human settled planets though.

>I'll continue on Sunday

>Continuation in ~6 hours

>>2248078
“Mostly what we need are fuel and munitions,” you tell Captain Ounce as you return to Sericea's hangar deck. “High-g maneuvers burn through a lot of propellant, and our stores are nearly depleted.”

“We have plenty of that to spare,” Emary nods in understanding. “I mean like tons of the stuff. What kind of munitions do you need?”

“Mostly small arms,” you begin, before correcting yourself. “I mean small for a mobile suit. We've switched fully to the 45mm vulcan system.”

“And that's sufficient?” Emary muses. “Anaheim hasn't really embraced that change. Too many of our in-house pilots prefer the heavier rounds.”

“Average number of rounds to shoot down a fast-moving projectile hasn't changed,” you explain, “but ammunition capacity and the time required per target are improved.”

“I see, so efficiency is greatly improved because of that,” she realizes thoughtfully. “I'll have to make a note of that.”

“As for heavier weapons, we're short on 20cm warheads,” you continue. “Sericea and this new support machine we're using both handle the same basic explosive round. Delivery systems are fine, we can handle that ourselves.”

“Any special specifications?” Emary asks.

“Nah, we're just going to strip them and put psycommu receivers in them anyway.”

“I see. Well, we can supply you with those too.”

>While we're at it, do you have any experimental weapons systems we can... 'evaluate'?
>Do you have any raw materials you can spare, like gundarium plate or electronics?
>You've done more than enough for us. Let us do the rest.
>Other?

>>2248500
>>While we're at it, do you have any experimental weapons systems we can... 'evaluate'?

Other than the big man Dogatie himself, anything else of interest uncovered in the ship?

>>2248500
>>While we're at it, do you have any experimental weapons systems we can... 'evaluate'?
shiny.

>>2248500
>>While we're at it, do you have any experimental weapons systems we can... 'evaluate'?

If we can help in anyway, we should help them.

>>2248500
>While we're at it, do you have any experimental weapons systems we can... 'evaluate'?

>writing

>3d10 perception, higher is better

Rolled 7, 1, 3 = 11 (3d10)

>>2248544

Rolled 1, 6, 5 = 12 (3d10)

>>2248544

Rolled 7, 5, 7 = 19 (3d10)

>>2248544

>>2248546
>>2248547
Oh no, strong start for the rolls
>>2248548
And thank you, not a complete failure here.

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“Do you have anything that you'd like us to... 'evaluate' while we're at it?” you ask cannily, causing Emary to sigh to herself.

“Perhaps. But you'd need to come aboard our ship to see any of the systems,” she informs you. “We have a few subsystems, but mostly what we've been working on are larger projects. Engines for capital ships, the like.”

“Capital ships?” you ask. “What's Anaheim doing in that market?”

“We want to fill that particular niche, left open by the collapse of the Federation's financial system,” Emary explains, “or at least that's what I was told. Years ago all we ever did was build one-off carrier designs which is hardly cost-effective.”

“I see,” you nod, grasping the logic. With the number of complex systems that go into a starship paying to build and fit out a single ship at a time is far less efficient than paying for five or six, at least on a per-unit basis. All the money that goes into testing and development of the initial model is spread across the costs of more hulls.

“So, would you like to come aboard?” Emary asks you. “I could give you the tour... but you'd have to expect that someone's gonna hear about you doing it. Not that providing you with fuel and munitions won't already raise some suspicions.”

>We can meet Haman Karn and pass it off as a regular tour. How good's your acting?
>We'll inform Haman Karn to hold for the time being, resupply her vessel separately.
>We'll let Haman Karn know to expect a visit from you. Anything else can be done later.
>Other?

>>2248569
>>We can meet Haman Karn and pass it off as a regular tour. How good's your acting?

>>2248569
>>We can meet Haman Karn and pass it off as a regular tour. How good's your acting?
If it's about ships, insight from Haman would be worth something, considering she designed one previously and is currently in command of one.

>>2248569
>>We can meet Haman Karn and pass it off as a regular tour. How good's your acting?

>>2248569
>>We can meet Haman Karn and pass it off as a regular tour. How good's your acting?

>3d10, higher is better

Rolled 7, 6, 10 = 23 (3d10)

>>2248614

Rolled 10, 6, 5 = 21 (3d10)

>>2248614

Rolled 2, 3, 3 = 8 (3d10)

>>2248614

Rolled 3, 7, 2 = 12 (3d10)

>>2248614

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>>2248614
“How good's your acting?” you ask with a smug grin.

Emary shrugs and shakes her head at the same time. “Good enough I guess? I've never heard any complaints.”

“Then we'll meet with Haman aboard your ship,” you decide, “and treat it like a standard hospitality sort of thing.”

“Right,” she nods in agreement. “Coffee?”

“Coffee,” you agree.

You first make it a point to let Rossweisse know about the situation with La Vie en Rose, and she promises that she'll inform you if anything serious happens that requires your attention. She also suggests that ALICE can monitor outgoing communications, possibly with the sort of precision to tell you when you're being listened to. Your partner passes you an earpiece that will serve as your link to Sericea and her powerful surveillance systems.

“Thanks,” you nod, “both of you. “We'll make it as quick as possible.”

“Leave it to us,” Rossweisse declares. “Do me a favor?”

“Name it.”

“Look into their capital ship projects, if you can.”

“Is Sericea not performing up to your standards?” you ask curiously.

Rossweisse responds with a pensive frown. “Her range and capacity leave something to be desired.”

“I'll keep my eye open,” you agree.

“Thanks.”

Once aboard La Vie en Rose, Emary leads you down a docking ramp that eventually dumps you out into a sleekly-styled atrium, where Haman is waiting for you.

“Welcome aboard!” Emary greets your friend warmly. “I'm Captain Emary Ounce.”

“Hey, I recognize you...” Haman realizes. “Congratulations on the promotion. How are things?”

“You know what they say,” Emary sighs dramatically. “More money, more problems.”
>1/2

>>2248651
You quickly tap your ear, then trace a small orbit through the air with your fingertip to let Haman know that someone's probably listening to you, and she seems to immediately get the message. In your ear, you hear ALICE's voice in a low, confidential tone.

“Bug located, signal within five meters.”

The reception desk. A natural spot to place a listening device.

Your sister's right of course, and you feel a little bad for the receptionist who gives you a smile and a friendly wave. You wave back at her, trying not to betray your awareness of her situation. What she doesn't know won't worry her.

“I'd like to show you a few of our newer projects, if you're game?” Emary asks aloud. “Just like the old days.”

“Has the quality of the coffee improved?” you joke. “Seems to be the one thing you guys could never get right.”

“Well, a little bit,” Emary admits. “Either that or I lost my standards at some point along the line.”

“Haven't we all,” Haman shakes her head.

“So no coffee for you then?”

Haman's quick to change her tune. “I take mine with sugar, no milk or cream.”

After a brief stop at a break room near one of the station's major hangars for coffee, Emary gives you some options.

Of course there's one in the break room too... hell, I can see where they installed it.

Were they even trying? you muse silently as your eyes fall on a wall panel that's clearly been re-mounted upside down after having been removed.

“Bay one is systems testing for capital ship propulsion,” she explains, “bay two is internal systems, same thing. Bay three is ranged weapon technologies for mobile suits, bay four is optional equipment and close-in weapons.”

“So what're you most interested in?”

>Capital ship propulsion systems, bay one.
>Capital ship design and architecture, and internal systems, bay two.
>We always love shiny new guns, so show me what's in bay three.
>Our melee game has fallen behind, show me what's behind door number four.

>>2248684
>>Capital ship design and architecture, and internal systems, bay two.

>>2248684
>>Capital ship design and architecture, and internal systems, bay two.

>>2248684
Hmm, Rosse mentioned range and capacity, so I'm curious about those two. But which one first?

>>Capital ship propulsion systems, bay one.
>inb4 Sail of Light

>>2248684
>>Capital ship design and architecture, and internal systems, bay two.

>3d10, you know the drill by now
>higher is better

Rolled 9, 9, 10 = 28 (3d10)

>>2248729

Rolled 2, 7, 5 = 14 (3d10)

>>2248729
Rollin'

>>2248731
Nicely done!
Now I can get my bad rolls out of the way.

Rolled 1, 10, 4 = 15 (3d10)

>>2248729

>>2248731
Do I need to even roll!

>>2248745
Every roll is sacred...
wait, that's not how the song goes...

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>>2248731
“My partner's interested in capital ship designs,” you admit, remembering what Rossweisse asked you. “Make a good enough pitch and you might even secure a contract with us.”

“Well then, let's head over to bay two then,” Emary smiles, waving you out into a circular hallway.

“I didn't know Rossweisse was interested in a new ship,” Haman mutters quietly behind Emary's back.

“We'll talk about it later,” you tell her. “Sericea's not perfect.”

Emary escorts you into a large hangar space, with all sorts of half-completed components set up and scale models of competed designs.

“Most of these are huge,” you muse, recognizing a lot of the general designs underneath all the layers of equipment and weaponry. “That's a Magellan, isn't it?”

“Part of our concept for how to break into the market is to utilize existing assets where possible,” Emary explains to you. “Two possible modifications of the Magellan to carry mobile suits, a trio of upgrade plans to the Alexandria class.”

“And this model?” you ask, picking out a smaller ship's model. It's split into its components you realize, and not all of them seem to quite fit together.

“That's... actually a special case,” Emary admits sheepishly... she's even blushing slightly, as if it embarrasses her. “We were told to design a cruiser to try and sell to your organization in particular.”

“Really?” you ask, making no attempt to hide your amusement. “I guess it makes sense.”

“You're not offended?”

“Not particularly,” you shrug. “Haman?”

“It's a good business move,” she admits. “Walk us through it.”

“Well, we started with the old Nahel Argama design,” Emary explains, seeming a bit more comfortable now that the conversation's turned purely technical. “Single narrow launch ramp and hangar along the midline, chopped from a hundred and twenty meters down to about sixty. Then we fitted the main armament of an Alexandria to the sides, a comprehensive system of point defense guns, and two large engine nacelles on either side of a low command tower... stole those from a ship one of our cells designed for the Republic of Zeon.”

“And the curvy forward hull?”

“Copied from the Tivvay-type,” Emary clarifies, “though reduced in size. That part of the design is the only one not retained from a previous plan.”
>1/2

>>2248840
“So what's in that section of the ship?” Haman asks, examining the model more closely. “Aside from the point defense systems and the centerline catapult?”

“Crew spaces and facilities above, but the hangar and the catapult run the length of that section,” Emary explains, showing Haman how the components fit together. It looks rather compact, but the whole thing is clearly well thought through. Even the exit doors for the internal launch bay and the pressure locks have been carefully designed.

“The lateral bulges also contain retros and maneuvering thrusters.”

“How long is her hull?” you ask.

“One hundred sixty meters,” Emary tells you. “Mounting five twin beam cannons, thirty-four point defense turrets, and four torpedo tubes.”

“Mobile suit capacity?” Haman presses.

“Room for four... five if they're small.” Emary finally offers you a grin. “We've been calling it the “Special Type Survey” cruiser. Resources have already been set aside for the first one even though we weren't even ready to pitch it to you yet... we've been calling her Columbia.”

“She seems... tailored,” Haman admits, biting her lip. “I have to say you have my attention.”

>When could 'Columbia' be ready for testing and evaluation?
>Interesting. We could forward the data to the fleet for discussion.
>Nice, but where's the main selling point? Let's hear the full pitch.
>Other?

>>2248892
>When could 'Columbia' be ready for testing and evaluation?

>>2248892
>>When could 'Columbia' be ready for testing and evaluation?

>>2248892
>>Nice, but where's the main selling point? Let's hear the full pitch.
And after hearing it.
>>When could 'Columbia' be ready for testing and evaluation?

>>2248892
>>Nice, but where's the main selling point? Let's hear the full pitch.
Re-entry and atmospheric performance, perhaps?

If so, I imagine the phase before testing and evaluation will take a while to iron out the kinks. Still, a timeline would be something worth knowing, so...
>>When could 'Columbia' be ready for testing and evaluation?

>3d10, DC 18, Crit 22

Rolled 4, 9, 5 = 18 (3d10)

>>2248934

Rolled 7, 7, 5 = 19 (3d10)

>>2248934

Rolled 9, 7, 7 = 23 (3d10)

>>2248934

Rolled 4, 2, 7 = 13 (3d10)

>>2248934

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210 KB JPG

>>2248940

>>2248940
The significance of the name isn't lost on you... you just hope she fares better than the ship she's named to commemorate.

“When could she be ready for evaluation?” you ask. The one thing you're not so clear on right now is the time scale. “Shouldn't take long if you're using mostly tested and reused assets.”

“Well...” Emary replies quietly, clearly struggling with a decision to either tell you or withhold some detail. Then she notices the look in your eye. “Sorry, Captain.”

“Is there some sort of problem?” you ask calmly, not wanting anyone overhearing you to realize you suspect that Emary is holding out. In case she decides to keep quiet, or sell you an obvious lie.

“Her planned propulsion system is a new design,” Emary tells you.

“What, like a new ion rocket?” you ask.

She shakes her head. “Minovsky-based.”

That catches your attention and Haman's at the same time.

“Excuse us, but back that the hell up. Did you say...”

“Minovsky,” she nods, repeating the offending word for you. “Yes, you heard me correctly. Columbia would be the first spacecraft that didn't need to carry any of her own propellant, only fuel for her reactors.”

“Should you be telling us this?” you ask her.

She shrugs. “You were bound to find out sooner or later... you may only have one eye, but it's always been sharp. The STS project's main technical hurdle is miniaturizing the system without dramatic loss of propulsive power... we were actually planning a full-scale test fire for today that I had to scrub when you appeared on our sensor sweeps.”

“That's... unfortunate,” you muse, genuinely sorry for causing Emary such a problem.

“It's fine, you had no way of knowing,” she smiles slightly. “There'll be plenty of other days to fire a rocket.”

>Well, you've given us a lot to think about. But we should be heading back now.
>I'd love to see what you guys can do with a gun if this is your idea of an engine.
>If your melee weapons are as impressive we may be tempted to poach your designers.
>Other?

>>2248971
>>I'd love to see what you guys can do with a gun if this is your idea of an engine.

>>2248971
>>I'd love to see what you guys can do with a gun if this is your idea of an engine.

>>2248971
>>I'd love to see what you guys can do with a gun if this is your idea of an engine.

>3d10, higher will be better
>temper your expectation, there's only so many ways for Anaheim to reinvent the beam rifle and the Grim Guard probably tried most of them

>>2248971
>>I'd love to see what you guys can do with a gun if this is your idea of an engine.

As an aside, given the presence of bugs in the ship, wouldn't it also be likely that there's at least one crew member tasked with relaying the recorded conversations? Maybe that's our lead in.

Rolled 6, 10, 10 = 26 (3d10)

>>2249021

Rolled 1, 2, 10 = 13 (3d10)

>>2249021

Rolled 4, 5, 4 = 13 (3d10)

>>2249021
>>2249027
jfc anon

>will write after I take care of something

>>2249063
“If this is your idea of a rocket I'd love to see what you've done with a gun,” you muse playfully.

“Well, it's not as impressive,” Emary admits, “but if you'll follow me I can show you.”

She's right of course. The collection of beam rifles and beam rifle parts isn't as fantastic as the idea of a whole new kind of propulsion for spacecraft, but there are a few details that catch your eye. First is a literal pile of what seem to be beam confinement mechanisms, which dictate the characteristics of the beam once it leaves the weapon, and the second is a bizarre-looking weapon with no real stock. Instead it appears to have a long transfer cable, protected by rigid interlocking segments of metal like the exposed piping on many Zeon-styled mobile weapons.

“So what are we looking at?” Haman asks, pointing to the two work areas you've been looking at.

“Maybe the only interesting things in the room,” she sighs. “One's a series of adjustable concentration chokes, really each is a stack of at least two successive confinement mechanisms that allow a weapon to switch between modes other than massive blasts or tight beams.”

“So spreads and bursts?” you realize, and Emary nods in confirmation. “That's right. Finicky to design and machine, but once we get them right they're no less reliable than the parts they're intended to replace.”

“Drop-in?” Haman asks.

“That's the idea,” Emary agrees.

“And those other parts?” you press.

“Soft transfer links,” your guide explains, shutting her eyes for a moment to think of how best to explain their function. “Think of a VSBR mount, except it's more flexible and can theoretically mate with any existing weapons system, so long as we can build an appropriate adapter system.”

“Why aren't these technologies widely available yet?” Haman wonders aloud. “Just the cost?”

“No market yet,” Emary explains, before catching herself. “Anaheim's internal policy for research has always been to predict future markets rather than catering solely to existing ones.”

>That's dangerous, don't you think? Selling buyers designs based on perceived future need?
>I see. And what would it take to fit one or both systems to an existing mobile suit?
>Interesting, but I'm also interested in your other systems: melee, shields, that sort of thing.
>Other?

>>2249156
>>Interesting, but I'm also interested in your other systems: melee, shields, that sort of thing.

>>2249156
>>Interesting, but I'm also interested in your other systems: melee, shields, that sort of thing.

>>2249156
>>Interesting, but I'm also interested in your other systems: melee, shields, that sort of thing.

>>2249156
Ohh, and here I thought this is also an attempt to pair Beam Smart Gun quirks with the VSBR too.

>>Interesting, but I'm also interested in your other systems: melee, shields, that sort of thing.

>>2249156
>>I see. And what would it take to fit one or both systems to an existing mobile suit?

I am different.

>3d10, working on it

Rolled 3, 10, 1 = 14 (3d10)

>>2249248

Rolled 10, 5, 6 = 21 (3d10)

>>2249248

Rolled 7, 4, 3 = 14 (3d10)

>>2249248

Rolled 7, 1, 3 = 11 (3d10)

>>2249248

>>2249248
“Let's just round it out, shall we?” you muse. “Take a look at what you've got in the melee department... say, swords and shields and whatnot?”

“Whatnot's in short supply,” Emary jokes, “but swords and shields? I think we've got something you'll like.”

In the next hangar over Emary walks you past what appears to be a beam saber with a different emitter, one with two slits on the sides and a slightly longer handle.

“What is...”

“Hyper beam saber,” the Captain explains before you even finish the question. “Also not what we came for, power supply's not finished. Won't even run sixty seconds before needing a recharge. No, this is my little pet project.”

It's a shield. It comes with a rugged powered arm mount that should slot directly into the shoulder of back of a mobile suit equipped with a hardpoint there, similar to the old arrangements for machines operating in shoal zones like the 'Thunderbolt sector' in the remnants of Moore. But its contours are unusually bumpy, and its lower extreme ends in what looks like the tip of a sword.

“This shield mounts a modified heat rod, and is designed to offset its own weight and power draw along the lines of Woundwort's basic principle,” Emary explains, walking you around to see the other side of the equipment. “Remember what I said about predicting future demands? This is the future as I see it, Captains.”

“What future demands a tool like that?” Haman wonders.

“A future where talented mobile suit pilots are a rarity,” she explains, “and where such opponents will be favored with more expensive and durable mobile weapons. Where beam-resistant coatings will be standard issue for such elites, and where the effectiveness of beam sabers in a melee will be vastly reduced.”

“In such a future, heat weapons like the old Zimmad and Zeonic designs would come back into vogue. That's what I think.”

>How well do you think it would function in practice?
>I like it. I like it a lot.
>Let's discuss what you need tested in the field, to repay you for the fuel.
>Other?

>>2249338
>>I like it. I like it a lot.

>>2249338
>>Let's discuss what you need tested in the field, to repay you for the fuel.
>>How well do you think it would function in practice?

>>2249338
>>>Let's discuss what you need tested in the field, to repay you for the fuel.
>>>How well do you think it would function in practice?

>>2249338

>>>>Let's discuss what you need tested in the field, to repay you for the fuel.
>>>>How well do you think it would function in practice?

>>2249338
>How well do you think it would function in practice?

>>2249338
“That's a whole lotta whatnot,” you muse. “At least on paper. How do you think it'd work in practice.”

“It seems unwieldy,” Haman observes.

“Twelve sharpened segments, each with heated edges. Each has limited articulation and tiny rocket kick motors to maneuver it midswing. The angles are fully adjustable by pilot input.”

“That means twelve sets of motors?” you ask.

Emary nods in confirmation. “That's correct. For any normal human pilot, without any AI subroutines? Lady Haman is right, it'd be more dangerous to its own wielder.”

“But for a Newtype?” you muse. “You think it'd be usable.”

“And probably only for a Newtype,” Emary agrees. “At least if you're talking about its maximum safe effectiveness.”

So does she not know about the Von Braun branch and its AI experiments?

Why would she? you reply silently to your sister. Since when does Anaheim ever share information without it being beaten out of them?

>Well, I happen to know a Newtype who might be interested in a weapon like that.
>I think I'll pass. Anything else you'd need a pilot to test?
>Other?

>>2249411
>>Well, I happen to know a Newtype who might be interested in a weapon like that.

>>2249411
>>Well, I happen to know a Newtype who might be interested in a weapon like that.

>>2249411
>>Well, I happen to know a Newtype who might be interested in a weapon like that.

>>2249411
>Well, I happen to know a Newtype who might be interested in a weapon like that.

>>2249411
“Well, I happen to know a Newtype who would like the sound of that,” you tell her. “If you'd be willing to part with it for a while.”

“Oh?” Emary asks with a calm smile. “And who would that be?”

“Me,” you tell her. “After all, I owe you for the fuel. It's only right that I field test your baby here.”

Emary's expression gives way to shocked realization. “Wait, you!?”

“Why not?” you ask. “Should I not?”

“No!” Emary insists loudly. “Well, yes... I just...”

You get the feeling that Emary's immensely flustered for some reason, even without being a Newtype you'd be able to tell that much. But as for what she's flustered about, not even your Newtype senses can tell you that.

“Are you... okay, Captain Ounce?”

Emary takes a deep breath. “It's just... I didn't think you'd take a genuine interest in something I designed. I mean... you! One of the most feared and respected pilots ever to sit in a cockpit!”

“... you're fangirling right now, aren't you?”

That's adorable. Confusing, but adorable.

“... maybe a little?” Emary admits in an embarrassed squeak. “Yeah... yeah, I am.”

“You designed this thing for us,” you smile reassuringly, “so it'd be rude if we didn't test it for you after all that effort. When can you have it mounted?”

“I can have it on your ship within the hour, Captain!” Emary tells you excitedly, before remembering to curb her enthusiasm. “If you're sure that's what you want.”

“Yeah,” you nod resolutely. “I'll be sure to give you a full report as soon as I get a chance to evaluate it.”

“What about you, Captain Karn?” Emary continues. “You have an eye for anything?”

“No, not especially,” Haman snickers. “My trip's already been worth it.”

>>2249523
>and with that, I am now quite tired and I need to prepare to get up early tomorrow morning
Thanks for stopping by, and hope you enjoyed the read. Now that you're rearmed and re-outfitted, you're ready for the Vist Foundation... probably.

See you next week, and feel free to leave any questions or comments here or in the Discord!

>>2249533
I never do say no to testing out new, shiny toys. Thanks for running!

Does the whip part just dangle freely, or can it be stowed fully or partly within the shield?

>>2249621
It retracts fully into the shield save for the last digit, which serves as the point of the weapon. That's why it looks a little "lumpy": there has to be room inside for the heat rod.