>>571305
>> Go head down to the Suit Proving Grounds.
Give them pointers, make sure they don't break their legs

>>571305
>> Go head down to the Suit Proving Grounds.

>>571305
>Seen better? You're still hot! M-maybe you could lose a few pounds? (Lose a bit of weight.)

> Go head down to the Suit Proving Grounds.

>>571320
> Go head down to the Suit Proving Grounds.
> After a cup of tea and whiskey.

>>571305
>Only seven other boys have seen that!
Seven's a lot. We kind of a slut

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2.97 MB GIF

>>571397
>Seven's a lot.

>>571397
>they were only around for a couple of nights, your last boyfriend only lasted a week before deciding to break it off
Maybe the LT's just desperate and clingy

>>571305
>> Go head down to the Suit Proving Grounds.

>>571404
I'm 30, you'll have to forgive me for being out of touch.

>>571421
Seven is a low number of partners for ANYONE in the military.

Also, I'm 34.

>>571438
>>571421

Retraction:

Seven isn't that ridiculous of a number for ANYONE in the military.

>>571305
And how many Girlfriends?

>>571453
>Implying any girl can handle the LT

>>571438
Well, the military is a weird hyper-macho environment completely disconnected from human norms and values. I also know plenty of guys who bitched and moaned because they didn't get any action during their service. (most were airforce, however)

>>571460
But update says, it's guys that can't handle her.

> Go head down to the Suit Proving Grounds.

-

-

Mills drives you in the Land Rover down to the Suit Proving Grounds, a kilometer stretch of land reserved primarily for suit training. Why do recruits need a whole kilometer of land just to learn how to walk? Well, you've always been the advocate that they need five kilometers.

You manage to catch the training as it starts, in a large hangar building where all the training suits are kept. Career Sergeant Dune addresses the few dozen strong batch of Recruits, your Idols included, as they stand outside the hangar in preparation for receiving their training suits. “Today, you are going to start your Suit Trials. You've all done the simulations, the suits are tricky, but they are going to be your best friend.

“A suit is not a space suit, but it can act as one! It's not primarily armor, but then again the Knights of the Round Table were not as well-armored as we were! It's not a starship, but it can fly, a little bit. But the only hope starships have against a suit is saturation bombardment of a suit's location. When you put on a suit, you are becoming more than just a man. You are accepting responsibility and risk. And believe me, responsibility is the name of the game today. Your suits for training will be the ONLY suits you get! You break it, it's coming out of your pay. And each suit is very expensive piece of Federal Equipment, and if you lose or break your suit irreparably!” He walks up to Olga, shouting in her surprised face. “You are going to pay off that suit until you FIVE HUNDRED YEARS OLD! Am I clear!?”

“Yes, Career Sergeant!”

“Good! Now meet your newest partners!” Everyone looks expectantly, awe-inspired, as their suits are wheeled into view.

And their faces promptly drop in disgust and confusion.

“I can tell you aren't happy, well guess what, my granddaddy had to fight using these! And fuck if you think you're going to be spoiled enough to use actual frontline equipment for training! These suits have been modernized to be relatively similar to the Paladin and Marauder lines you may be expected to use! You have five minutes to examine them top to bottom, then report to the lockers and to get yourselves into your I-Suits! On the double!”

Olga looks up in awe at the ancient piece of armor. “Whooooaa...” She smiles happily. “My great grandpa used one of these in the First Space War!”

“They look like diving suits,” says Stacy condescendingly.

“They'll do for training,” says Rosalie. “And besides, I think they look kind of adorable.”

“Right?!” Olga grins, happily pressing her hands against the olive drab armor. “Wow!”

[1/2]

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>>571473
[2/2]

> BRITISH LEYLAND MARK I(H) CHALLENGER POWERED INFANTRY ARMOR
> These suits are over a hundred years old, and are long obsolete. Despite that, they've held together well enough for the Federation to modernize them and utilize them as training suits to avoid having valuable equipment be broken by unsteady recruits. The suits are slow, the jetpack is underpowered for its weight, and there is no onboard weaponry whatsoever. But the sheer armor and intense reliability of each suit makes them worth their weight in gold.

You walk up to your Idols, smiling at them. “Like what you see?”

“Yeah!” Olga looks into the suit itself, seeing the slot for the trooper to fit into. “Whoa! Neato!”

Stacy folds her arms. “Um.” You look over at her. She has a question. “So, Lieutenant... are these suits easy to use?”

> “Sure. Don't worry, I'm rooting for you.”
> “If it'll make you feel better, I'll put one on and show you.”
> “Fuck no.”
> Other

>>571478
>> “If it'll make you feel better, I'll put one on and show you.”

>>571478
>> “Fuck no.”
>> “If it'll make you feel better, I'll put one on and show you.”

>>571478
>> “If it'll make you feel better, I'll put one on and show you.”

So yeah, my computer for some reason is refusing to connect to the internet which means I can't post the update for now, posting from my laptop.

Hi everybody.

>>571478
>> “If it'll make you feel better, I'll put one on and show you.”

>>571478
> “If it'll make you feel better, I'll put one on and show you.”

>>571472
I think it's less that the can't handle her and more that noone wants to. Lefty's damaged goods, it's kind of sad because all she probably wants is someone she trusts to hold her and say that what happened to Dizzy wasn't her fault.

>>571714
Yo, cut 600ish words off the pastebin, gonna try and clean up my transmission primer then update it. Any luck with the song writing?

>>571739
The idea is that I'm probably going to just steal songs and probably paste lyrics of mine over the tune. I'm not sure I can do original song writing.

ARE YOU READY I'M READY

>>571745
Yeah, didn't expect full composition or anything. Mainly because it's a nightmare.

>>571757
While I restart my computer, feel free to ask me questions about the Starship Idols-verse, I need something to make me feel better for being more than an hour late on an update.

>>571766
Do we shot those who are unwilling and unable to do there job?

>>571766
Is there much difference in the Quality of Life between a citizen and non-citizen? Or is it mainly just that citizens get a vote?

>>571771
No, they just get kicked out and deprived of their right to citizenship. This is usually a voluntary scenario though.

For involuntary scenarios (i.e. court martial), the Federation goes out of its way to try and ignore things to keep valuable bodies on the frontlines. It can't afford to drum out TOO many people.

>>571773
There is very little difference. Citizens however are the only ones allowed to vote, hold public office, teach certain classes, and receive certain benefits such as favorable taxing on business ventures and/or full health insurance for the rest of their life.

However, despite the little difference between a citizen and a civilian, most people fail to understand that most citizens earned the responsibility and resent it. This is mostly seen as you go farther out of the home planets and towards the Outer Colonies (especially in the mid-rim where most refugees end up and especially in the Colonial Defense Forces).

>>571785
> Colonial Defense Forces
I'm guessing these guys don't get to be citizens after serving? What exactly are they like, equipment and training wise, or are they more like a collection of planetary militias with no real standardisation?

> “If it'll make you feel better, I'll put one on and show you.”

You sigh. “If it'll make you feel better, I'll put on a suit and show you.” You tap your head. “But listen, you don't pilot or drive a suit. You -wear- a suit. Got that?” Stacy nods. “First step of learning how to use one, Stacy.” You look to see Career Sergeant Dune, arms folded and watching out for the recruits as they examine their new suits. “Dune! You got an I-Suit for me?”

He quirks his brow. “Putting a suit on?”

“Might as well help set an example,” you say.

“Fine.” He nods to you. Besides, wearing a suit is a lot like riding a bicycle, you never forget! “Recruits! I-Suits on! Now!”

-

-

The standard Interfacing Suit (or I-Suit) is a form fitting grey suit with a vest which locks into a suit's structure and interfaces directly with it. The suit then takes a minute or two to adjust to a user's height and width, then locks into their movement, and very soon you're off and running. Some camp technicians help the recruits into their suits, with Joey, Breckenridge, and Lindstrom along with Stacy and Rosalie having some trouble interfacing with theirs.

Olga however is the first to not just interface with hers, she even walks right out of the hangar like she owns the place. “Later!”

“Recruit! Stand by outside of the hangar!” yells Dune. Olga gives a thumbs up, then steps outside of the hangar to wait. Dune wears his own Mark One suit, marked with a yellow stripe to indicate him as a trainer, same as yours.

Honestly, if there's one thing you've learned, it's that I-Suits are great at telling you that you've gained weight. Jesus Christ. You fit yourself in, and allow the suit to naturally interface with you. The hood lowers down around you, and seals shut. There we go.

One thing about suits that you had to get used to during training, the helmet is usually static. Which means looking around is a little troublesome. But, you're here, and man does this feel great. You step forward, and hear the soft plunk of your suit's foot hitting the ground. Yes! You haven't forgotten a thing. Left foot, right foot. Easy does it.

The rest of the Recruits are all in their suits now, ready to go. “Alright, let's get walking! Baby steps now!” yells Dune. One recruit immediately topples over, another accidentally sets off his jets and flings himself into a pile of crates. “This is going to be a long day. Recruit Elson!” He walks up to Stacy, who appears to standing stock still. “How is your suit?” he asks.

“Fine, Career Sergeant! I am ready to go!” yells Stacy.

“Good, then salute me then,” he says.

Stacy blinks, looking down nervously. “... Career Sergeant?”

“It's just a simple salute. What are you going to do if an Officer passes by?” Hey! “Salute.”

…

Stacy immediately slaps herself in the face, falling backward. “OW! Fuck!”

You sigh.

> Help Stacy up. That's how the Career Sergeant got you back in training.
> “Get up, Stacy. Under your own power.”
> Leave her, she'll learn.
> Other

>>571799
> “Get up, Stacy. Under your own power.”

Oh god, This is gonna be enjoyable reading.

Who does the Feddies fight in this, Bugs still? Aliens? Innies?

>>571799
> “Get up, Stacy. Under your own power.”
"Slowly, think carefully about your movements before making them, at least until you get used to moving in a suit."

>>571794
The Colonial Defense Forces are a relatively recent-ish development for the Federation. Prime Minister Thach fought the Federal Council as a Councilor for five years arguing that the Colonies needed a homeguard to free up MI Troopers and Fleet ships.

They've only been around for about three years after Thach got elected, and unfortunately she could not get everything she wanted for them.

The CDF is highly disorganized, being left mostly up to the Colonies to organize and enlist. Unlike the MI, they do not have access to suits or most advanced weaponry and thus have to rely extensively on basic bulletproof and kevlar armor, older pulse weaponry, and their own guts to see them through.

And because they're recognized as a colonial development and not a federal one, the CDF isn't counted as being Federal Service, thus people who fight in the CDF are not eligible for citizenship which is a very sore point for many of them.

Essentially, they're just the Starship Troopers movie MI.

>>571812
Mostly the bugs. There are other Aliens such as Skinnies and the Bugs occasionally make use of foreign auxiliaries but overall, the prime enemy for the Federation is the Bugs.

>>571825
I also forgot to add, the reason the CDF isn't counted as being Federal service alongside the whole "the colonies use them, not the Federation" part, is because the CDF isn't authorized to participate in offensive operations. They function primarily as a defense and humanitarian relief force.

>>571799
>> “Get up, Stacy. Under your own power.”

>>571799
>> “Get up, Stacy. Under your own power.”

>>571825
Jeez, the CDF guys are actually pretty hardcore if they signed up for that. No suits, no citizenship, no recognition just a rifle, some body armour and the will to fight to defend their homes.

>>571825
Ah, I see you know of the skinnies. Well cool.

>>571835
That seems alittle though, if it was called a 'milita' I could understand the loop-hole used but a 'defense' force seems like something you'd join to chesse your way into Citizen ship. I take it the debate rages on?

>>571842
The debate is a very fierce thing in the Federation (most of its councilors are very intensely conservative, meaning most of them don't like the idea of having the job of home defense being taken away from the MI.) Prime Minister Thach originally wanted at least basic powered suits for the CDF along with the magpulse weaponry the MI uses and full support of the Fleet AND it being recognized as Federal Service. Of course, some stuff got cut.

>>571842
I think of they're like the PDF from 40k. They ain't the real deal, they're just meatshields designed to last long enough for the real Imperial Guard or Space Marines to come in

>>571851
Does magpulse mean railguns, and pulse mean modern day combustion guns?

>>571851
that's a real shame, sense they'd be doing the same job as the MI if things got heated before the military arrived.

>>571854
I figured, didn't want to assume.

>>571863
Magnetic Pulse weaponry is basically railguns, while pulse weaponry is actually pulse weaponry. Modern day combustion guns have been obsolete in galactic warfare for decades.

Magpulse weaponry function similarly to the Mass Effect style weaponry, shaving a speck off a block of metal and propelling it at intense speeds. Pulse weaponry is pure energy weaponry which is on its way out due to it being inadequate against bug exoskeletons and heat issues at the infantry level (with larger pulse cannons serving as the main Federal Fleet armament alongside railguns.)

There are also laser weapons as well serving as heavy weapons for the MI, along with ongoing research into plasma weaponry that the bugs use.

> “Get up, Stacy. Under your own power.”

You step on over to Stacy, looking down on her. “How are you, Stacy?” Career Sergeant Dune leaves you to corral the stumbling and tumbling Recruits outside of the hangar. Stacy looks around, her head not really comprehending that the helmet is fused to the shoulders and thus immovable. She looks over at you, a little frightened.

“I'm going to be honest, Lieutenant. I'm terrified.” You nod at that, understandable. “If I move a muscle, it feels like the suit just kind of goes! H-... how do you-”

“Listen, under your own power, just get up.” Stacy looks at you for a second, then nods slowly. She flexes her finger, wincing a bit as she presses them flat on the ground. Slowly she turns herself onto her side, yelling in pain for a second. “Are you okay?”

“I'm fine, I just bumped something!” she shouts. “Okay, okay... I can do this.” She turns herself onto her front, then pushes herself up. She yells in fright, stumbling backwards, spinning her arms like a centrifuge to keep herself steady. Then she stays still, panting heavily. “Okay, okay. I think I got it.”

“WATCH OUT!” Rosalie runs full tilt into Stacy, knocking them both over screaming. That doesn't stop Rosalie however, she goes skidding down, knocking Joey over and causing a chain reaction of Recruits falling over or flying out of control to get out of the way. Rosalie continues to stumble, screaming in fright. “Look out! Look out!” She charges at Dune. “I can't stop!”

“Rosalie!” you yell.

Dune grabs Rosalie's helmet, then simply pushes her over. She falls over, still flailing her legs and arms around. But now she is as useless as a turtle on its back. That was always a weakness of most suits, being thrown backwards. “Well. At least you're fast, Recruit O'Connor.”

“Thank you, Career Se-” Rosalie slaps herself in the face. “Agh!”

Olga bounces down, landing next to Dune. “Whoa.” You walk up next to Dune as well, looking at the carnage. You're sure some of these troopers have broken arms and legs, maybe a cracked rib or two from not interfacing properly.

Dune sighs, then looks to you. “I don't think they're ready for the Suit trials today.”

You smirk. “Can't you at least try?”

“Very fucking funny,” he says. “Alright, who's wounded!?” Several raise their arms, almost hopping into the air from momentum. “Corpsman!” A Fleet Hospital Corpsman comes in with his own suit, ready to tow the stricken troopers out for medical attention. “Rest of you, get up!”

“But, Career Sergeant!” Dune reaches for a cylinder on his backpack. Rosalie groans, trying to wiggle herself up. “I- I don't think can-”

[1/2]

Dune drops the cylinder into Rosalie's hands. It opens up, revealing a timer. Speakers pop out of the sides, and red lights flash all across it. “I AM A THIRTY SECOND BOMB. I AM A THIRTY SECOND BOMB. I WILL EXPLODE IN THIRTY SECONDS. THIRTY. TWENTY-NINE. TWENTY-EIGHT. TWENTY-SEVEN.”

Everyone starts panicking, hurrying to get up. Some injure themselves even more trying to get up, while others simply boost away in their jetpacks, sliding across the ground. Rosalie tosses the cheerful thirty second bomb away, and tries crawling her way to safety.

Dune stares at it all, clearly not impressed.

> “To be frank, that's pretty cruel for you.”
> Help those who can't get up.
> Watch with him, this is kind of funny you admit.
> Other

>>571953
> Watch with him, this is kind of funny you admit.

DI show love through being abusive assholes so you survive first contact.

30 second bomb, fucking lucky cunts. Should've been 10

>>571953
>> Watch with him, this is kind of funny you admit.

>>571953
> Watch with him, this is kind of funny you admit.
Let's just hope they're learning something.

>>571953
>> Watch with him, this is kind of funny you admit.
Question, since the LT was sort of unsure about her current age because of space travel, does FTL have a time dilation effect, or is it because people go through cryosleep?

>>572076
To break the realism, no FTL does not have time dilation or cryosleep. The Cherenkov Drive works by propelling ships through warp like the in the movie.

I could go into time dilation stuff but my only experience with it is through Interstellar and I'm not exactly the sharpest knife in the room.

>>572093
Basically, the faster you move the slower time moves for you. To the point that if you were to get close to light speed minutes passing for you would be months to the outside galaxy. Wouldn't be a problem for a warp drive though, as it's a result of 'conventional' FTL travel.

> Watch with him, this is kind of funny you admit.

You must admit, you are wincing every time the Thirty Second Bomb announces that its a thirty second bomb and its counting down. Still, this is pretty funny at least. Rosalie continues to crawl away, before accidentally firing off her jets and sending her flying straight into a sand dune. Stacy as well runs off, before tripping off on her own two feet and sending her sprawling into the ground.

For the rest of Domino Squadron, you can't even tell people apart anymore in all this chaos. You're sure that Domino is in there somewhere, they're just out of sight or lying in a sand dune waiting to be helped up. It's almost catharsis really, watching these recruits do the stuff that you did, and failing miserably. Makes you want to have a drink.

Dune sighs, then hits a remote. The Thirty Second Bomb stops announcing its countdown, and disarms itself. “Alright, everybody! Let's get to work. Get yourselves up, we'll do basic walk drills!”

-

-

After the wounded were sorted out and everyone came back to their feet, the next several hours were spent on marching and drilling. Normally this'd be a tedious operation anywhere else. In the Mobile Infantry, this was vital. You had to learn to stop thinking when you were in a suit, and treat the new upgraded and augmented movements as natural. And that meant having to unlearn about two decades of walking, running, jumping, and everything else. But as the recruits kept their formation, with only the occasional stumble, it seems they were on track to learning the art of the suit.

As you march alongside them, Rosalie turns her head to you. “Ma'am, permission to speak.”

“Granted,” you say.

“I know the suit is supposed to be an environmental suit, and that the Mobile Infantry fights where it's asked to fight.” You nod. Go on. “I just wanted to know, what's the worst place you ever fought in?”

> Lie, say it's the bug tunnels or Mincke's world.
> “You'll find out when you drop.”
> Bug Starship. No question.
> Other

>>572219
>> “You'll find out when you drop.”

>>572219
> “You'll find out when you drop.”

Shes not wrong.

>>572219
> Bug Starship. No question.
Sounds like a helluva story.

>>572219
>Bug Starship. No question.

>>572219
> Bug Starship. No question.

> Bug Starship. No question.

You wave your hand a bit (you can't shrug in a suit) and say, “Good question. For me, it was a Bug Starship.”

Joey leans ahead, almost knocking Rosalie over. “You fought on a Bug Starship?” A few other recruits look over as well. “What's that like?”

“Worse than the tunnels,” you state bluntly. “See, sometimes the MI are called in for boarding action, there's something on a bug ship that we want intact or some other reason. Now, the reason a Bug Starship is the worst place I've fought is in because of all the hazards that are in it simply because the Bugs don't care about safety.”

“Like what?” asks Breckenridge.

“First off, there are no windows, so you have no way of orienting yourself. Secondly, the Bugs don't use artificial gravity, so you're stuck in zero G. Thirdly, everything is dark, and the reason for that is because the Bugs can naturally see in the dark and have no need for artificial lighting in most cases. Fourthly, the hallways are very cramped, which means for an MI squad, you have to go into a hallway one at a time. Fifthly, a Bug Starship is a maze, there are passages that go left, right, up, down, some doors lead out into space, some lead into incubation chambers, some into strange feeding chambers, etcetera so you have no idea of where you are most of the time. Sixth, the Bugs have the advantage in close quarters with their plasma weaponry, which means that death could be behind every corner and you wouldn't even know it. Seventh, life support in Bug Starships is restricted only to vital areas which means most of the ship receives very little oxygen which means a suit breach can suffocate you. Eighth, one wrong explosion in an area can send you flying out into space.”

After you lay it all out, you look back to see all the Recruits staring at you in awe. “Wow,” says Olga. “So, what were you in a Bug Starship for?”

“We were attempting to take a frigate-class Bug Starship in for research purposes. Thankfully, there wasn't too much resistance, but we still had to clear every room and every angle for Bugs. We lost at least two people doing it.”

“I can't imagine that,” says Breckenridge. “What kept you moving?”

You point ahead. “It was either the bugs.” You point directly at Dune. “Or Dune.”

Dune looks back. “You trying to start something?”

“No, Career Sergeant,” you say quickly.

“Hmph.” Dune huffs, continuing to lead the column on.

[1/2]

>>572414
[2/2]

-

-

Once the sun had set, everyone came back to the Hangar to return their suits. The Recruits dismounted and immediately started to unzip and unwind out of their I-Suits, stretching their fatigued limbs or simply collapsing outright.

Olga took the control vest off then unzipped her suit, revealing her sweaty skin beneath. “Oh God! That was amazing!” Rosalie and Stacy sat up against each other, groaning in fatigue and pain. “Come on, guys, don't be so silly, there's nothing too bad about a suit!”

Joey walks over, the top of his suit wrapped around his waist revealing his chest. “You're a natural, Olga. I like that.” He holds out a hand to Stacy, who accepts it graciously. Rosalie falls over without a support.

You hear a horn honk, and look over to see Azuma and Mills in the Range Rover. “Lieutenant! You coming to talk Idol stuff or what?!” Oh right. That.

> “Coming.”
> “Fuck off.”
> “You can talk Idol stuff to me now, fuck if I'm going all the way back there.”
> Other

>>572418
> “Coming.”

>>572418
>“Coming.”

>>572418
> “Coming.”

Bug Frigate class.

>>572495
The Bugs have an interstellar navy that rivals that of the Federal Fleet. It's not very well-maintained navy nor is it a very powerful or very well organized (the Bugs mostly live underground after all, the concept of a navy only really occurred to them when they discovered space flight).

But they've got a Fleet.

>>572507
I find that way more funny then I should. Do they have weapons the ships anyway? Am I asking questions already asked?

>>572418
> “Coming.”

>>572516
The bugs utilize beam weaponry on their ships, focusing plasma into beams much like those Star Wars lasers, the ones with the really cool BRRRMHTTH sound from Clone Wars or Revenge of the Sith. That's mostly it and the Bugs again aren't really into the concept of navies.

What makes their ships really threatening is the fact that the Bugs mount SHITLOADS of beams onto their ships. Over 50% of their power on any given ships purely devoted to powering just the guns. Weak individually, but a lot adds up.

>>572533
What do Fed ships have in the way of defences against that? Just thick armour and hoping they don't get too much time on target?

>>572563
Thick armor and actually a thin energy shield which isn't primarily for weapon defense but more for knocking asteroids and debris away. It is handy for beam defense, but enough beams in one place can overwhelm and start carving into the armor.

Federation Ships also have a lot more defenses such as point defense turrets to fight against fighters and missiles, but because the Bugs utilize neither in space combat these are basically worthless.

>>572418
>> “Coming.”

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112 KB JPG

>>572584
So if the Federation is losing the ground war, how's the space war going?

>>572598
The Space War is actually a lot more evenly pared since the Federal Fleet has the technological advantage. The Bugs still utilize swarm tactics, but they can't bring to bear too many ships because they can't replace them fast enough in the swarm way they can replace an individual Warrior.

Instead, the Bug fleets mostly restricts themselves to raiding unprotected colonies and hit-and-run tactics on the Fleet where it can. For the invasion of worlds, the Bug fleet doesn't bother with supporting the ground troops and instead just drop hundreds of pods filled with warriors crowded together. Among these hundreds of pods could be a Queen whose job is to bury herself as deep underground as she can and simply replenish the invasion's numbers until she dies.

In short, the Federation has the Bug Fleet on the run, but the Bug Fleet knows not to engage the Federal Fleet in direct combat unless they seriously outnumber them.

> “Coming.”

“Coming!” You raise your hand, then look to your Idols. “You girls going to be okay on your own?”

Rosalie gives you a thumbs up as Breckenridge picks her up in a princess carry. “We're good. We're just going to hit the showers, Lieutenant. See you later.” You wave to them and watch as they walk away for a bit. Hm, you'd never let a man carry you like that. No sir. Maybe Dune, but only because he's Dune, if he says he wants to pick you up like that by golly you'll let him else he'll break your leg. Still, they at least seem to be having a good thing going. You just hope it doesn't get too friendly.

-

-

“Lieutenant.” Danner leans back in his seat, accompanied by a few interns as well. He adjusts his sunglasses covering his burnt out his eyes, a smirk on his face. “Kept me waiting, did you.”

“Yep.” You stripped out of the I-Suit and went back to wearing the utility greys. Still, it's hot as wildfire in those Mark Is, so you tossed off the jacket and went with black top instead. You pull up a chair with Azuma and Mills, and decide to get listening. “So where are the drinks?”

“That's a topic for later,” says Danner. “Let's get this over with because I know that you hate talking business like this.” He understands you! “See, the Idol business is uh... we've done some research.” You nod, okay. “Now, I believe that before we can go for a broad audience all over the Federation, we have to start small. That means we need to pick a demographic to appeal to, one that we can impressively take hold of, sell merchandise to, hold concerts for, and sell the idea of Federal Service to them.”

Azuma nods at that. “For simplicity's sake, Danner's divided up our target audience into three groups.”

“Let me lay them out.” Danner motions for an intern to hand you a stack of papers. “Give that a read through, I can answer questions that you may have.”

Right, what do we have.

First group is the YOUTH. From ages 10-18. Very impressionable and naive people, the Youth have not enlisted in the Federal Service. Due to decades of institutionalized elitism which scares off sub-par candidates for Federal Service, most YOUTH do not believe in Federal Service. However, again, young people are very impressionable and can be easily persuaded to enlist and possibly even go career which will give the MI and Fleet a much more sustainable manpower pool.

[1/2]

>>572701
[2/2]

Second group is the NON-ENLISTED CIVILIANS. Usually from the ages of 20 to 30. These young adults have chosen not to enlist in Federal Service. They may hold jobs, be college students, or be stay-at-home family people. Whatever the case, there are more excuses for them not to enlist, and are much less easy to convince than the youth. However, civilians past the age of 18 make up over 70% of the Federation, and tapping into this base would be incredibly valuable.

Third group is the CITIZENS. Usually these people might be easy to convince to re-enlist in the Federal Service. The problem is that many of them feel their term is done and have retired to start families or businesses or even go into politics. However, because many of them have done Federal Service, they have very valuable experience that can be passed on to new Recruits, which can help make an elite fighting force.

Hm, when things are compressed together like this...

“It's up to you,” says Danner. “Which demographic should the Starship Idols target first?”

> The Youth
> The Civilians
> The Citizens

>>572708
> The Youth
Seems like the audience most likely to go for the whole Idol thing. Not exactly the most ethical choice but I think we're well past that point anyway.

>>572708
>> The Youth

>>572708
>The Youth

>>572737
>inb4 we try to be 'hip' in the worst possible way by inserting pop culture references and memes.

>>572708
>The Youth

TO CHANGE THE FUTURE, WE CHANGE THE CHILDREN OF TODAY.

>>572793
"What do you younger whipper snappers talk about now on your twizzler and your inskaman?" As he's slowly drinking his prune juice

> The Youth

“We should focus on the Youth. Figure maybe we could get more kids into the Federal Youth Corps, or maybe even get more High Schoolers into enlisting as well. I mean, if my H&M teacher could convince me to enlist, surely we can do something with the rest of the youth.”

Danner nods. “Agreed. Every good civilization starts with the young. The great thing is that historically speaking, young uneducated folks who don't know any better are very easy to radicalize. Now, I know we have strict policies on compulsory education, but that doesn't mean they'll know what do with that education until they need to use it.”

Azuma however is a bit more skeptical. “Are you sure? I mean- I don't suppose we could try going for non-enlisted civilians first?”

“The Lieutenant's made her decision,” says Danner. Azuma frowns a little at that. “Don't worry, it's a good one. We can trust that the children of the Federation can easily buy into some flashy lights and cheery lyrics and pretty soon they'll be enlisting in the thousands. We just need to get our foot in the door. Now, I'd talk to you about where we want to expand after our first concert but seeing how you wasted the entire day reliving your childhood.” Oi, how about you fuck off. “It's quite late, and I'd rather we not drag this out anymore than we have to.”

“Right,” you say. “Tomorrow then?”

“Tomorrow,” says Danner. “Try not to keep me waiting again. I am trying to help you.” He adjusts his sunglasses. “Lieutenant.” He motions his interns to leave, their notes taken and everything they need coming with them.

With that, that just left you, Mills, and Azuma. “I'm not entirely confident in the idea of getting the youth to piggyback the war,” he says. “When you're a kid, you don't worry about that stuff. Why should they have to fight?”

“To learn a little responsibility,” you explain. “Come on, Azuma. Do you seriously believe that you would've turned out better without the Federal Service.” He opens his mouth to protest, then shuts it. He knows. “The Federal Service, as brutal as it is, is a rewarding one. Besides, they're an easy demographic to target, we need easy right now.”

Azuma grunts. “I guess. And I suppose that's why I was the Private and you were the Lieutenant, you could always see the big picture.” Well, that's another story entirely.

> Shoot the shit with Azuma and Mills.
> Retire to your bed for the night, have a drink or two. You haven't had one since this morning anyway.
> Go check on the Recruits.
> Other

>>572934
>Shoot the shit with Azuma and Mills.

>>572934
>> Go check on the Recruits.

>>572934

> Shoot the shit with Azuma and Mills.

>The great thing is that historically speaking, young uneducated folks who don't know any better are very easy to radicalize

For the Federation we have no choice I guess.

>>572934
>Go check on the Recruits.

>>572934
> Go check on the Recruits.
Make sure Rosalie and Breckenridge ain't getting too friendly

>>572934
> Shoot the shit with Azuma and Mills.

File: 459897b26427b09663a0f55ea(...).jpg (30 KB, 327x463)

30 KB JPG

Eh, it's close to my bedding time so I'll continue this tomorrow when I get home. Nice to see y'all. If you got questions, dump 'em and I'll answer them soon as I get time.

Follow at: https://twitter.com/GermanSchteel
Ask at: http://germanschteel.tumblr.com/
Book Tumbles: http://germanschteelbookblog.tumblr.com/

See you next time.

>>573113
Thanks for running Schteel!

>>573113
Thanks for running. On the topic of Rosalie and Breckenridge, I'm assuming there's regs against fraternisation but are they actually enforced? Or is it just accepted as part of what happens when you shove a bunch of fit, young people together in one place where they're constantly reminded of their mortality and let slide as long as it's not crossing over the enlisted-officer line?

>>573113
Thanks for running.

>>573113
thanks for the read
youth army here we come.
also god damm those poor fdf solders
balls of steal

>>574187
> balls of steal
I think what you meant to say was "balls of schteel."

>>573185
The Federation overlooks fraternization cases between enlisted personnel provided they're of the same rank and the superior officers can't be bothered to.

However, fraternization is heavily enforced amongst COs and NCOs especially.

> Go check on the Recruits.

-

-

You and Azuma decide to take this time to see if the Recruits are doing anything funny for the night. For now, they were spending the night in the desert again in tents. You and Azuma bundled up in the standard greatcoats, then took some torches and went looking around. Most were asleep by now, others were prodding at smoldering campfires trying to get some warmth (there was no designated lights out in the last week of training, troopers are expected to know when to get some sleep or not), while a few were on fire watch for their squadrons.

“Remind me again why we're checking on the Recruits?” asks Azuma.

“I just want to make sure they're okay. Today's suit training was pretty brutal on them,” you say. “Except for Olga. Olga's a natural!” You've never seen someone take to suits so quickly. She learned how to use a suit the same way a duck learns how to float on water.

“That's great I suppose,” says Azuma. “What, you think they're...” He sticks his finger between the index finger and thumb on his opposite hand.

“I can't have pregnant idols,” you say. “I know the men are issued condoms in case of... sudden and unexpected urges, but I am not having my idols soiled by the likes of some horny greenie what thinks that they can take advantage of my young girls!” You slap your chest. “That is the end of it!”

“You sound jealous.”

“I am not!” You stomp your foot. “I've had seven boyfriends!” And very very secretly there was that one night with a bridge bunny but she was really cute and sweet and lewd but oh god your pride can't stand it if Azuma ever finds out you slept with a Fleetie. “I do not need to be jealous!”

“Hmph.” Azuma smirks. “Fine then. Let's assume they're practicing safe sex and get outta here then, maybe even have a drink.”

“Not until we see that they're practicing safe sex!” You point your torch to their tent. “There!” You and Azuma quickly walk on over, and find there's some light on in the tent. Ha! Caught red handed! You pull the flap open. “Aha!”

You look to see all of Domino Squadron, boys and Idols included, centered around a torch. Clothes on, all in sleeping bags... Oh. Joey tilts his head. “Can we help you?”

“Oh, I was just-” You clear your throat, blushing a bit. “Erm. You all doing okay?”

“Well, Breckenridge was nursing a bruise or two on his arm from the suit training,” says Rosalie. “We were just telling him some scary stories to improve his morale!”

“Shut up!” says Breckenridge. “I- I'm not scared of your stories!”

Azuma leans in, smiling. “Did you tell him the one about the phantom suit?” Everyone looks confusedly at Azuma. “Oh God!” He quickly sneaks into the tent, crouching down. “Okay, gimme that light there, this is gonna be fun one.”

> “No, it's not. Let's get the fuck out of here, Azuma.”
> Sit down and listen. Ugh, you're so embarrassed.
> “Fuck off, Azuma, I get to tell the story!”
> Other

>>575068
>> Sit down and listen. Ugh, you're so embarrassed.

Bunnies are naturally lewd

>>575068
>> Sit down and listen. Ugh, you're so embarrassed.

>>575068
> Sit down and listen. Ugh, you're so embarrassed.

>>575068
> Sit down and listen. Ugh, you're so embarrassed.

>>575068
> Sit down and listen. Ugh, you're so embarrassed.

> Sit down and listen. Ugh, you're so embarrassed.

You sigh, sitting down next to Azuma. “Alright, this is the story about the Phantom Suit!” He picks up the torch, shining it brightly on his face, starkly casting shadows across his forehead. The girls all look on in anticipation, as do the boys. You can feel Joey sliding closer to you, but you quickly push him away. Not now you manky little fuck. “So, me and the Lieutenant here, we heard this from another unit, who heard it from another unit, and it goes like this:

“There was a lone trooper, stuck in the thick jungles of Tesca Numerosa. He was cut off from his unit, he could get no support from the Federal Fleet, and he was quickly running out of power for his suit as well. It had been five days of hard fighting for him, and his energy and spirit was sapped. So he decided to sit down, and wait for rescue. And suddenly, out of the bush came another trooper in a suit. The lone trooper could not see a face behind the sunguarded visor, and there was no identifying tags either. The HUD in the lone trooper's helmet did not even register the suit as nothing but unknown.”

Breckenridge bites his lip, slowly scooting closer to Rosalie. “Then what?”

“Well, it was simple. Stick together, or be eaten by bugs. So the two marched five kilometers through jungle, encounter bug snipers and raiders on their way to the nearest MI Outpost. Along the way, the unknown trooper spoke to the lone trooper, guiding him, advising him. The unknown trooper seemed to know everything about our lone trooper, his name, rank, where he was from, his sweetheart back home. The lone trooper asked who the unknown trooper was, and he got no answer.

“Suddenly, another bug attack, this one bigger than the rest!” Rosalie curls up next to Breckenridge, excited and awed by the story while Breckenridge looked scared out of his mind. “Warrior bugs, even the Guards Warriors! They came from every angle, from the trees, from holes in the ground, from the bushes! They were surrounded. But... the unknown trooper pushed the lone trooper away, and attracted the attention of all the Warriors. Our lone trooper escaped at the cost of the unknown trooper's life.

“When he finally got back to camp, he told his story. Nobody believed him. There were sat logs indicating he was the only trooper in that area for kilometers. The lone trooper pleaded that it was real! That someone did save him! He even saved the radio recordings from his suit and presented it to his superiors.”

“And what did they say?” asks Olga.

Azuma clears his throat. “Trooper. There was nobody else. You were talking to yourself.”

…

“That's not scary!” shouts Joey.

“Y- yeah!” Breckenridge leans back, folding his arms. “Ain't scary at all, right, Rosie?” Rosalie shakes her head, giggling at Breckenridge. “What? I wasn't scared, I'm not scared of ghosts or nothing!”

“Nobody said you were,” says Lindstrom.

“Fuck you, Lind.” Breckenridge pushes Lindstrom back into his bag.

[1/2]

>>575235
[2/2]

You sigh. “Right. Sorry for interrupting your little pow-wow here. We should get going.”

“Wait.” Olga raises her hand. “Can I talk to you outside, Lieutenant?” You blink, then sigh. With a nod, you leave Azuma in the tent so that you and Olga can talk outside in private.

“What is it, Olga?”

Olga looks down, nervously. “I just uh... I just wanted to say thank you I guess.” Hm? “You know, this Mobile Infantry stuff is hard. And I think it's gonna get harder.” No, really. “But-... you know, for the first time, I really feel like I'm in control of my own destiny! Like, I can do anything I want now! Even if I have to obey orders and go to places to kill bugs, I feel... for the first time in my life I feel like I have responsibility!”

“Really.” You fold your arms, nodding slowly. “Did your parents not give you a lot of that?”

“Oh, no, I mean... my parents love me and I love them. My Dad especially, he always doted on me, gave me everything I wanted. But I never realized I wanted something like this!” She holds her hands out, smiling. “Even if I become an Idol too, that'll just make my life perfect! So-... thank you, Lieutenant!” She grins. “Thank you!”

> “Don't thank me yet.”
> “You're welcome.”
> “Don't thank me, thank the Federation.”
> Other

>>575238
> “You're welcome.”
> "Do you want a hug?"

>>575238
>> “You're welcome.”

>>575238
> “You're welcome.”
That's good, you've taken your first step into a larger world.

>>575238
>“You're welcome.”

>>575238
> “Don't thank me, thank the Federation.”

>>575238
> “Don't thank me, thank the Federation.”

>>575238
>> “You're welcome.”

>>575238
> “You're welcome.”

> “You're welcome.”

You nod. “You're welcome.” Olga grins, then immediately grabs you in a hug. “Hehehe, eh...” You gently push her away, surprising her. “I'm your superior officer, I don't do hugs.”

“I thought you were out of the Federal Service though,” says Olga. Well- you are, technically, but- well. Oh Jesus Christ. She sighs. “I guess it can't be helped, Lieutenant. Let me at least salute you for being a winner of the Terran Cross!” She clicks her heels, then salutes you sharply. You salute her back, then dismiss the salute.

“Lieutenant!” Career Sergeant Dune and Major Brown call you over. Azuma pokes his head out of the tent, surprised. “News from the front. Get over here.” You let Olga go back into the tent, and you and Azuma quickly come on over to Dune and Brown.

“What's the word?” you ask as you start walking out of the camp set up by the Recruits, probably to keep your talk out of their hearing range. “Suit trials tomorrow?”

Major Brown says, “This particular batch of Recruits is being moved to the Hazardous Environment training course on Mars.” What!? You blink, surprised. “The Sky Marshal is requesting it personally.”

“Why?” you ask. “These kids don't even know left from right.”

“Probably the Idol business,” says Brown. He folds his arms, looking out at the tents. “Did the Prime Minister not clear this with you?”

“No. Look- I mean, it's not a bad thing to move to Mars I suppose. But...” You sigh, folding your arms. “That's still dangerous territory. Mars is still undergoing terraformation. And then there's remnants from the last time the Bugs tried to raid Mars.”

Dune sighs. “Desert Swarm, what an operation.”

Brown sighs. “Well, orders are orders. They'll be moving to the space elevator in the morning and will complete their suit training at the HEV Course. And they'll be out of my hands.” … wait. “Your training supervisor there will be Major Frank Harcourt. He'll whip some sense into these monkeys. Sergeant Dune will remain in charge of training this batch, then he'll be rotated back to the front.”

Right. Right.

Major Brown however has one last thing to say. “Before I go though. I think I have made my attitude towards this business clear, Lieutenant. Your girls are going to be slaughtered the minute they drop. And when they are, no one is going to miss them.”

> “Stow it, Major.”
> Punch him. You're not technically enlisted anyway. It'll just be an assault charge.
> “How about you fuck off.”
> Other

>>575360
go eat a bag of dicks
my girls and i are going to out drop anything you train

>>575360
>> “Stow it, Major.”

>>575360
> Punch him. You're not technically enlisted anyway. It'll just be an assault charge.

>>575360
>Other
"Your opinion has been noted and will be considered, Major."
He wants to play politics? He can damn well get fucked by politics when it comes out that he's been messing with training because of his personal opinions.

>>575360
Actually changing my vote here >>575386 too this guy >>575390 I forgot how big Political shit is.

yer but do we care about beening political? not in the MI any more no need to kiss ass unless we want something

>>575360
>Kick the Major's ass. Then report him to the higher-ups for his conduct.

>>575406
Because learning to use Politics means we let the Prime Minister and Sky Marshal know that the Major has been intentionally getting in the way of recruit training.

>>575360
> Other
"Shove it up your sopping arse, you mangy twat cunt."
We are Scottish after all.

>>575417
we can inform them anyways
since now we wont be worred about him fucking over the girls

>>575360
Heh, operation Desert Swarm

That's a good one

>>575360>
“Stow it, Major.”

>>575451
I didn't come up with it. SST: Terran Ascendancy did it way before I did, it's way too good of a pun to pass up.

> Other

“Your opinion's been noted and will be considered, Major.” You step apst him, watching him glare you down as you move back to the Range Rover.

“We'll meet with you in the morning,” says Career Sergeant Dune. Fine, that's fair. Fucking asshole what thinks he's all high and mighty just because he's a Major, thinks he knows what makes citizens and what doesn't. He's what's wrong with the Federation, people who think they know what's best for people and people who think that other people can't be citizens for the stupidest reasons. Fuck them, fuck them, fuck them! Hmph.

You and Azuma step into the Range Rover, and you continue to glare at Major Brown as you leave. But as you drive, you look to Mills as he drives. “You know what just happened, Mills?”

“That the training unit got transferred to Mars effective immediately?” he says. You nod. “Sure I know.”

Azuma leans in between you two, looking at Mills. “Did you tell the Prime Minister?”

“Maybe,” he says. Really? You give him a very questioning look. “Look, Lieutenant. The Prime Minister gets what she wants. She assigned me to you not just to be your personal assistant. I'm your link between her and you. And sometimes I get to have my own discretion on some matters like this one. It's not fair that the girls have to make due with someone who's out to sabotage them. My Career Sergeants beat me, whipped me, almost killed me once. But they never once thought I couldn't be a citizen. So uh... there you have it!” He smiles at you.

“Well, thanks, Mills.” You lean back, melting back into the seat of the Range Rover.

Azuma blinks. “So Mars then. What do we do now?”

> “The same thing I always do. Go to the pub.”
> “I guess we head to the Space elevator then.”
> “We get some sleep and we move with the unit in the morning.”
> Other

>>575478
> “The same thing I always do. Go to the pub.”
Alchoholism ho!

>>575478
>> “The same thing I always do. Go to the pub.”

>>575478
>> “We get some sleep and we move with the unit in the morning.”

>>575478
>> “The same thing I always do. Go to the pub.”
but try t ocut down so like insted of 20 shots we only do like 15?

>>575478
>> “We get some sleep and we move with the unit in the morning.”

im hopeing that one of the grils or all of them see us hang over or somethign one day and tells us they want us to stop in a heart felt way and we then start to clean up

>>575478
> “The same thing I always do. Go to the pub.”

>>575478
>> “I guess we head to the Space elevator then.”

>>575478
>> “I guess we head to the Space elevator then.”

> “The same thing I always do. Go to the pub.”

-

-

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15OyLB6nCvY

You found a nice little dive bar in a little town outside of the Atacama, where you told Mills to pull into. This is your best and only chance to get a load of drinks in before you move off to Mars. You, Mills, and Azuma get a lot of strange looks from the patrons and owners of the bar, where despite the hardwood floors and comfortable warm lighting is playing more of that weird techno whatever music it is. On TVs around the place are the Galactic Cup qualifier matches being played, probably the only reason anyone is in this bar right now at this hour. Some of these matches are played as far away as Hopewell and Green Valley.

You three sit up on stools at the bar. “I'll have a whiskey on the rocks.”

“Water,” says Azuma.

“Water,” Mills calls as well.

You look at the two of them. “Are you two fucking pussies? We're in a bar, live a little why don't you?”

“We have to do space travel tomorrow,” says Azuma. He leans forward on the bar, turning his eyes to the match. “Besides, I'm not interested in getting a hangover every morning like you do, Lieutenant.”

“Please!” The bartender drops a shot of whiskey for you. “I can manage my drinking very well. Won't be any hangover!” You quickly down the shot, and signal for more whiskey. “You'll see! Tonight, only a few shots.”

> THIRTY SHOTS OF WHISKEY LATER <

“Ah, fook off!” You slap your hand on the bar, yelling at the players on screen. What fucking idiot decides to put Fenris on in the first fucking quarter!? Just like that fucking idiot of a manager, always trying to walk in their fucking points like some idiot! You look to see Azuma and Mills have taken a few shots, but... that's it! What a load of shite! “Oi, you two! You not drinking them?” Mills slides over his shot to you.

“I'll warm up the car,” says Mills. “We should probably get going.”

“Get goin'!?” you shout. “The match just started!”

“You're drunk,” says Azuma. “And you're embarrassing us.”

“Oi, if it's anybody who's embarrasing anybody...” A very handsome looking man passes by. “Oi, oi you! Stop- come on!” He continues by right out the door. “Fuck you then! Probably a fooking puff anyway.”

Azuma sighs. “Lieutenant, didn't I ask you that you'd try and keep your drinking down?”

“How about you-” You jab him in the chest with your finger. “... fuck off. I can stop drinking whenver I like.” You rest your head on his shoulder, sighing. “Ugh... anyone ever tell you that you look the pants, Zuzu?” Azuma gently pushes you away. “Aw, come on! I know you like me!”

“Yeah, when you're sober,” he says.

“I-...” You spit a bit onto the floor, making the bartender grimace a bit in disgust. “Fuck off.”

“Lieutenant.” He places a hand on your shoulder, making you pause. “Come on, no more drinking. Let's get out of here.”

> “Piss off, I just want a few more drinks.”
> “Oh, fine you devilishly handsome little bawbag.”
> Other

>>575632
>> “Oh, fine you devilishly handsome little bawbag.”

>>575632
>> “Oh, fine you devilishly handsome little bawbag.”

>>575632
>> “Oh, fine you devilishly handsome little bawbag.”

>>575632
>> “Oh, fine you devilishly handsome little bawbag.”
but have just one last shot for the road

>>575478
> “We get some sleep and we move with the unit in the morning.”

>>575632
> “Oh, fine you devilishly handsome little bawbag.”
But only after he dances with us to some of this terrifically 80s music.

>>575632
> “Oh, fine you devilishly handsome little bawbag.”

>>575632
> “Oh, fine you devilishly handsome little bawbag.”

>>575632
Also, Azuma admitted he liked us. Pity LT probably won't remember in the morning, because that's kinda sweet.

>>575791
yer but we need to stop drinking for anythign to happen thats not us raping him
and mybe work out
and we are not stoping drinking anyy time soon

> “Oh, fine you devilishly handsome little bawbag.”

You let him grab your arms and let you drag you out of the bar. “Oh, fine, fine you devilishly handsome little bawbag!” A few of the remaining patrons stare at you as you're dragged away. “Hey! Hey! Don't just look at me like that! I won a fooking Terran Cross and I deserve a little respect-” You heave, and quickly swallow up some vomit before it ejects itself. “Oh- close one!” You point to the bartender. “Put on me tab, boyo!”

“Tab?” The bartender blinks. “Wait, where are you going!?” The door shuts before he can get an explanation.

Azuma shoves you into the backseat and lets you lie back and rest your head on his folded up jacket. “Right, get some sleep, it's going to be a long drive.”

“What? Are we not gonna do this-and-that?” you moan. You smirk at him, quirking your brows at him. Come on, you're irresistible! No man can refuse you! They can refuse you afterwards, but not before! And yet, Azuma simply looks forward and ahead. “Well, fuck you too then.” You point to Mills. “And fuck you, you- you... you robotic fuck with yer fancy legs and ya- ya fooking... fuck you!” You can't bring yourself to insult Mills too harshly. Augh. You rest your head back, groaning as you watch the ceiling of the car spin.

“She always been like that?” asks Mills.

“She's always been a party animal since the day I met her,” says Azuma. “It's a shame, it got a lot worse after Dizzy died.”

“I understand.” The car starts moving beneath you. Really rumbly. Feels like you're on a drop again. “I've lost people I cared about but... well, it's for a good cause.”

“Yeah.” Azuma sighs. “Shame really, she's perfectly normal otherwise. I can't imagine her quitting drinking now.”

“Way I see it, people have different ways of processing grief. Besides which, how- how exactly did Dizzy die?”

“Well...”

-

-

You cough, wheezing as you feel the morning light pierce your eyelids and cook your eyeballs alive. Jesus wept. What the fuck. You roll over into the little space they save for the legs whatever they call it. Oh- oh shit. You open the door quick, then empty your stomach contents right onto the pavement below. Okay, good news, you're in a parking lot that's for sure.

Fuck...

You feel around, groaning as you reach for something, anything to steady yourself on.

Wait, what's this thing on your forehead. Oh, fucking, Azuma better not have drawn a dick on your head again. You pull it off. Oh, it's a note.


LT

Left the car warm for you. Me and Mills are in Reception waiting for the Recruits. Left change of clothes and some breath mints for you in the trunk. Make yourself presentable.

Azuma

Aw, he's like a real fucking mama.

> Go as you are. You aren't THAT bad looking.
> Hurry and get changed you guess.
> Call Azuma on the phone and tell him to come back and change you. You deserve more dignity than this, damn it.
> Other

>>575068

> Sit down and listen. Ugh, you're so embarrassed.
>Daydream of bridge bunny

File: LT.gif (623 KB, 500x283)

623 KB GIF

>>575800
The LT's too damaged to stop drinking without some more character growth/moments.

>>575856
> Hurry and get changed you guess.
pic very related.

>>575856
>> Hurry and get changed you guess.
>Daydream of bridge bunny

>>575856
>> Hurry and get changed you guess.

>>575856

> Hurry and get changed you guess.

>>575889
yer i know
wich im hoping for her to fuck up mybe one of the girls shows or something since she cares about them(as much as she dosnt want to) or somethign will have to come up

>>575856
> Hurry and get changed you guess.

> Hurry and get changed you guess.

You sigh, pulling yourself out of the car and into the blinding light. Motherfuck, who's bright fucking idea was to make the sun!? You pop the trunk open and pull out a fresh dress uniform, then quickly start stripping. As you do this, a few fleetmen pass by, surprised at you. You glare at them. “What!? You never seen a fucking Cap trooper in her pants before!? Fuck off!” They quickly run away.

Ugh, the nerve of Fleet. You'd think they'd never seen a woman before even though all of their pilots and most of their important personnel are women. Hmph.

-

-

“Lieutenant!” Azuma and Mills call you over. It seems you're a little late, as the column of Recruits have already arrived at the Reception for the Space Elevator. They receive their tickets one by one, with Olga, Rosalie, and Stacy bringing up the rear behind Domino Squadron. Azuma folds his arms, looking at you skeptically. “Took your sweet time.”

“Bugger off,” you mutter. At least the hangover's almost gone. And it doesn't feel like you're going to vomit. “Do you know what ship we're going on?”

“The Jimmy Stewart,” says Mills. “Just as Danner said.” Oh? That rusty old thing? “It's already docked and we'll be leaving for Mars in the afternoon. Career Sergeant Dune will be guiding the Recruits into their bunks before we leave.”

“Well, my girls better get their own private bunks,” you say. “I'm not having them share a room with the boys. Things get hot and crowded on a starship.” Probably explains the Fleetie, that and you were drunk.

“Well, let's not dilly dally,” says Career Sergeant Dune. “Lieutenant.” You look at Dune, who appears as stern as ever. “Just so you're aware. You're about to step foot on a Federal Fleet starship. That means you keep your drinking to a minimum.”

You smirk. “Or what, Career Sergeant?”

“Or I rip off your nose and shove it up your cunt,” he says bluntly. “Your choice.”

> “... fair point, I'll watch my drinking.”
> “No promises.”
> “Bugger off. I'll be fine.”
> Other

>>576034
> “... fair point, I'll watch my drinking.”

>>576034
>> “... fair point, I'll watch my drinking.”

>>576034
> “... fair point, I'll watch my drinking.”

>>576034
>> “... fair point, I'll watch my drinking.”
watch as it goes dow nmy mouth

>>576034
> “... fair point, I'll watch my drinking.”

>>576034
> “... fair point, I'll watch my drinking.”
This trip's going to be a nightmare for the poor LT.

>>576130
she gets the shakes or gets reall grumpy when

File: John A. Warden.jpg (62 KB, 607x260)

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> “... fair point, I'll watch my drinking.”

You sigh. “Alright, that's a fair cop, Dune.”

“You bet your ass it is,” he says. “Until you're officially an Officer again, I'm in charge of you.” Almost makes you want to re-enlist. Almost.

With that settled, you and the Recruits start heading up to the Elevator. Many people take the Space Elevators up and down for travel between spaceship to groundside and back again. You can see all kinds of people in these elevators, from young kids going to the colonies to study abroad, to Federal Servicemen saying goodbye to family or saying hello to family, to businessmen traveling on business with their corporation. It's a diverse background to your day you suppose. And you settle aboard the central platform, the voice over the intercom announces the destination. “THIS ELEVATOR TO LEVEL TEN, MILITARY PORT. STAND BY. PLEASE HAVE IDENTIFICATION READY. THOSE WITHOUT PROPER IDENTIFICATION WILL BE DETAINED.”

The elevator rumbles beneath, spiriting up into the sky. The Recruits all shake and stumble, not used to the inertia of it. But as the elevator continues up, they settle in. Olga blinsk, hurrying over to the window. Support struts flash by like rain drops in the wind. Rosalie and Stacy follow suit, looking out as blue skies give way to outer space. Clouds soon leave you to be replaced by docking struts, where dozens of ships sit in port.

“Whoa! There are so many!” says Olga.

“As expected of the Federal Fleet, all of these ships look so robust!” says Rosalie.

Stacy folds her arms. “So which one's ours?” You walk up to them.

“Oh, oh! Is it that one!?” A huge ship is in view at dock. Yep, that's a John A. Warden-class battlecruiser, the Lafayette G. Pool. A modern Fleet ship, equipped with the latest in weaponry, engines, and all other amenities. Perfectly comfortable for your Idols.

File: Jimmy Stewart.jpg (740 KB, 1800x1200)

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>>576247
[2/2]

“No.” They all look at you. You point to the ship rising behind it. “That's our ship.” They look ahead again, and are immediately disappointed.

Behind the Pool is a very aged and rustic looking Rodger Young-class Transport Corvette, much smaller, much less well-armed, and only recently modernized because Fleet can't afford to scrap perfectly serviceable starships. This was the Jimmy Stewart.

“Um.” Olga smiles a little, nervously. “It looks cozy from out here.”

> “Yeah, it does.”
> “I'm going to be blunt, it's going to suck.”
> Remain silent, let them speculate.
> Other

>>576255
>> “I'm going to be blunt, it's going to suck.”

>>576255
> “I'm going to be blunt, it's going to suck.”
We should already be grumpy about the prospect of little to no booze on the trip.

Now where's the endlessly modified prototype Battlecruiser J. Walter Christie?

>>576255
>> “I'm going to be blunt, it's going to suck.”

>>576255
> “I'm going to be blunt, it's going to suck.”

>>576255
>> “I'm going to be blunt, it's going to suck.”
How long's the flight to Mars gonna be? 6 months?

>>576247
>Lafayette G. Pool.
Lol

>>576255
> “I'm going to be blunt, it's going to suck.”

File: Nakagawa.png (485 KB, 600x490)

485 KB PNG

> “I'm going to be blunt, it's going to suck.”

“I'm going to be blunt.” You place your hands on Olga's and Stacy's shoulders. “It's going to suck. The trip to Mars is about a half day's worth through warp. But until then, you're going to be stuck in cramped corridors, hot rooms, piping hot showers, extremely hot- basically everything is hot in those old starships.”

“Why is everything hot?” asks Stacy.

“It's hard to vent excess heat into space,” you say. “Newer ships can do it fine, but the older ones are gonna be slightly hot.”

“How old is that ship?” Stacy asks again, clearly nervous.

“Oh... older than I am,” you say very candidly.

-

-

You weren't kidding when you said it'd be hot. Already the Recruits are sweltering under the heat of being inside of an old Federation starship. They figured out the issue of excess heat right around when they rolled out the Geronimo-class cruisers, and those were famed not just for their speed and armament but also for the amount of comfort. A lot of people called those things hotels for a reason. As you step into the hangar, you're greeted by a contingent of Fleet crewmen and women. “Welcome aboard the Jimmy Stewart!” They wear their utility blues in dress fashion, but you can tell that they'd rather strip down to shirt sleeves and tank tops right about now. One of them walks up to you, smiling. “I'm Petty Officer Third Class Kyoko Nakagawa!” She grins at you happily, brushing her brown hair back a bit. She salutes you quickly. “Lieutenant!”

You salute back. “Nakagawa.”

“We'll be moving your Recruits into their living accomodations!” Really? You were expecting to do that yourself. “Courtesy of Captain Ozgen! He has assigned me, Petty Officer Third Class Nakagawa to be your personal adjutant here aboard the Jimmy Stewart!”

“Great,” says Azuma to Mills. “You're out of a job.” Mills rolls his eyes.

> Head up to the bridge to meet with Captain Ozgen.
> Make sure your Idols get settled in, in their own bunks.
> Very quickly settle your accommodations first.
> Other

>>576477
>> Very quickly settle your accommodations first.

>>576477
> Make sure your Idols get settled in, in their own bunks.

>>576477
>> Head up to the bridge to meet with Captain Ozgen.

>>576477
> Make sure your Idols get settled in, in their own bunks.

>>576277
Wouldn't it be Christie P. Hobart?

>>576477
> Make sure your Idols get settled in, in their own bunks.

>>576509
Nah, Lafayette G. Pool only works because its the name of a WW2 US tanker (the whole naming of Trude and the school is a pun), while Perrine and J Walter don't have a parralel. Though why the navy would name a ship after a tank commander I've no clue.

>>576546
>Though why the navy would name a ship after a tank commander I've no clue.
Well Rodger Young was an infantryman in the Army, so it seems ships are just named after any notable people in the military

>>576477
> Make sure your Idols get settled in, in their own bunks.

> Make sure your Idols get settled in, in their own bunks.

-

-

“I don't get it,” says Olga. “Why do we have to have our own room?”

“Well, for one thing, there are only four beds to a room,” you say as you stand outside their room with Naka, Azuma, and Mills. Saki as well is also here, apparently Azuma decided to bring her along it seems. “Saki's going to be staying with you in fact.”

“Hi!” Saki slides in, suitcase in hand, grinning happily.

“Is this because you think one of the boys is going to do something?” asks Stacy. “We're more than capable of defending ourselves.”

“I know, I know,” you say. “But so are the boys. And let's be honest, if any one of you were to make trouble with the boys, things would get weird fast. And I don't want to have to deal with that. So instead, you're getting your own room here, with Saki, on the far end of the barracks. Don't worry, the other side of the Domino is next door so it's not that bad of a deal.”

“Yeah!” yells Joey. “Walls are pretty thin too!”

“And fucking hot as shit!” yells Breckenridge. “You could cook a pancake on these fucking things!”

“I haven't felt this hot in weeks!” shouts Lindstrom.

You roll your eyes. Great.

“So we're heading to Mars then?” asks Rosalie. You nod at that. “I've always wanted to see Mars! I hear the terraformation projects are going well! You think we'll get to see Eden Park or New Aberdeen?”

“Maybe,” you say. “We'll see, Rosalie.” She nods, placing her rather nascent things on her bunk. Everyone starts unpacking their things, ready for a short haul to Mars. “And remember guys, once you pass training. This-” You point down to the floor. “This is gonna be your new home.” Stacy deflates a bit, clearly not satisfied with that. “So don't sweat too much. Keep some water in you, alright?”

“So wait, the water in here is recycled, right?” You nod at Olga's observation. “So, if we're sweating, and they're collection water vapor in the air... are we drinking each other?”

…

oh fucks sake.

“Wooohooo! I'm drinking Stacy!” yells Joey. Stacy punches the wall. “Ow!”

“Fuck you, Joey!” Stacy screams.

You decide enough's enough and shut the door. Petty Officer Nakagawa smiles happily at you. “So, Lieutenant! Would you like to visit the Bridge? Perhaps see our complement of suits, or perhaps I can help you unpack your things?”

> Unpack
> See the suits
> Visit the Bridge
> Other

>>576649
> See the suits

>>576649
> Visit the Bridge
We should introduce ourselves to the Captain seeing as we'll be working together for the forseeable future.

>>576649
>> Visit the Bridge
It's only a half-day trip, don't really need to unpack stuff right?

>>576649
>> Visit the Bridge
oh god we walked right into that one
arnt we just the mother hen

>>576649
> Visit the Bridge

> Visit the Bridge

-

-

With Career Sergeant Dune tending to the Recruits, you decide it time to meet the Captain of the Jimmy Stewart. The bridge is a large, yet somehow cramped, observatory. It's filled with consoles with bridge bunnies (female fleeties whose job is mostly to look good and do things on the bridge) attending to them, with catwalks overhead overseeing more consoles. And at the center of it on a raised platform is the Flight deck, with the Number One and Two positions being the pilots seats and the captain's chair behind them. Number Two, a very smart looking pilot looks back. “We've successfully launched, Captain.”

“Very good.” Captain Ozgen is an older gentleman of Turkish descent, indicated by that crooked nose of his and his brown skin. He scratches at a growing beard of his. You, Azuma, and Mills step in, then salute him. The Captain looks down at you three, then stands up and salutes you three. “At ease.” You stand at ease. “Welcome aboard the Jimmy Stewart.”

> CAPTAIN FAHAD OZGEN <
> Fleet Captain of the SFTC Jimmy Stewart <

“Lieutenant.” He smiles a little, welcoming you as he holds an old fashioned tobacco pipe in hand. “I've heard much about you. If anything, I should've saluted you first.”

“This is your ship, your rules, Captain,” you say.

“Of course.” He nods at that. “Number One.” The other Fleet pilot looks back. “Set a course. Mars if you please.” She nods at that, calculating it down now. “We'll be departing for Mars, shortly. How are you finding things aboard the ship?”

“Hot,” says Azuma.

“Just as I remember it,” you say simply.

“Well, it keeps the uh... younger girls fit I suppose,” he says. “We get a lot of young girls these days joining Fleet, but not too many boys surprisingly. I mean, I know Fleet isn't exactly a man's pursuit, but...” A very busty fleet Ensign walks by, getting his and yours attention. “... there are certain advantages I suppose.”

“I see.” Great. “So, Captain. You know the-”

“Yes, yes. The Sky Marshal has briefed me,” he says. “Truth be told, I couldn't care less. It's your business, I'm just your taxi.” He smirks a bit. “Anything you need, I am available, Lieutenant. Just don't forget that is is my ship.”

“Noted,” you say.

> Talk with Captain Ozgen a bit, get to know him a little.
> Go and settle down in your room.
> “So, shall we go or what?”
> Other

>>576831
>> Talk with Captain Ozgen a bit, get to know him a little.

>>576831
>> Talk with Captain Ozgen a bit, get to know him a little.

>>576831
> Talk with Captain Ozgen a bit, get to know him a little.

>>576831
> Talk with Captain Ozgen a bit, get to know him a little.

>>576831
> Talk with Captain Ozgen a bit, get to know him a little.

> Talk with Captain Ozgen a bit, get to know him a little.

You stand next to Ozgen as he sits in his Captain's chair. “So, Captain Ozgen. Why'd you decide to settle on being a Fleet Captain?”

“Well, I don't aspire to much else if I am being honest,” he says. He leans back, sighing deeply. “I'm paid well as a Captain, I have citizenship, I'm surrounded by many young and attractive women.” He leans closer to you. “Don't let my wife know I said that.” Of course not. “And besides, I have a cushy job taxiing you around to where you need to go. That's the life.”

“So, you're lazy then,” you say bluntly.

“More...” He drums his fingers along the armrest, trying to find the word. “Do you know the tale of Cincinnatus? He was a man who ruled all of Rome, then gave it up to live the life of a farmer. He ruled Rome for only fifteen days.”

“So what does what that have to do with you?”

“Absolutely nothing.” He shrugs, smiling. “But look, this is a comfortable job, I like where I am at now. I'm not interested in Hood syndrome.” Ah yes, Hood syndrome. Named for the Confederate General John Bell Hood who was an amazing division commander, but when given the command of an army became completely useless. Most commissioned officers learned of him as an example of being promoted out of one's experience, and to encourage Officers not to promote wildly or allow themselves to be promoted wildly. “Still, Lieutenant, I'm impressed by you. You're young, you still got your figure.” Aw, thank you, Captain! “And you have a Terran Cross. I assume that's a story for later.”

“Yeah. I could always tell it another time.”

“Of course,” he says. “Number One, are we ready?”

She nods. “On your go, Captain.”

“Engage Cherenkov Drive, prepare for warp.” You hang onto something.

Number One types in the coordinates. “All hands, prepare for warp jump. Cherenkov Drive engaged. Five seconds.” You can feel the ship start to lurch forward. “Five, four, ready, steady, go!” A bright blue light appears ahead of the ship, and suddenly you can feel everything be peeled back as the ship jumps into warp speed.

Onwards to Mars.

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We'll resume this particular tale tomorrow around the same time as usual. Of course, if you've got questions, dump them and I'll answer them when I can.


Follow at: https://twitter.com/GermanSchteel
Ask at: http://germanschteel.tumblr.com/
Book Tumbles: http://germanschteelbookblog.tumblr.com/

See you next time.

>>576989
thanks:)

>>576989
Thanks for running.

>>576989
Thanks for running, Schteel.

>>576989
Just caught up. Thanks for the fun, boss.

>>577455
>That ID
I suppose it's better than Schteel who got +gay+ in his a few /qtg/s ago.

>>576989
Are you planning to run LGA 2 as a single thread this weekend seeing as you've currently got four on the board and none of them are particularly close to falling off?

>>578863
I don't think that's a good idea. Each thread equals one day of school. Doubling up would throw that off.

>>578863
Actually, funny story. I won't be able to run on Saturday so it'll just be a single thread regardless.

-

-

You're already jealous of some random civilian who gets to travel on some nice cruise liner that has air conditioning, decently recycled oxygen, and actual entertainment on board. As you lay in bed and wake up after a short haul, you're caked in sweat. And it's not alcohol withdrawal sweat, it's general “it's fucking hot” sweat. It's the not rewarding sweat that usually soaks you to the bone after you get out of an I-Suit either. It's the kind of the sweat that keeps you up at night and makes you feel like you're melting.

Feels like home already.

And it's what encourages some Federal Service personnel to sleep in the nude anyway. Some would call it crude, you would call it absolutely necessary on a ship that hasn't figured out how to properly vent excess heat. People are always so afraid of having thermal exhaust ports stick out and be obvious weaknesses, but alas, you're not a ship engineer. Admittedly, you probably should've tried out for that, you could've designed something that would at least make things feel cooler in these ships.

So you get up, you get dressed into your utility greys, and you look around. Your room and office for now is pretty barebones. But you might as well consider it your home away from home on your way to producing a successful military Idol business. Which is why you've already smuggled two bottles of whiskey on board (thanks to some very creative usage of your luggage). You'll make sure to lock your doors when you're drinking of course.

There's a knock at your door. “Come in.” Your door slides open to reveal Petty Officer Naka... whatever her name was. She salutes you, grinning. “Petty Officer.”

“Lieutenant!” Once you salute her back and dismiss it, she settles into a very casual and bouncy stance. “I've already arranged several things for your stay aboard the Jimmy Stewart! You now have a briefing room for discussing your Idol business, and as well...” She hands you a PDA, military grade. “You have access to the ship's nav logs and can direct us to your next destination, at the Captain's discretion of course!”

“Thank you,” you say. “Anything else?”

She smiles, biting her lip a bit, quirking her brows eagerly.

“... besides wanting me to recruit you as an Idol?”

[1/2]

>>580109
[2/2]

“Oh, did I say that? I didn't say that! Who said that? I didn't say anything!” She totally wants to be an Idol but god's sake, you don't know if you've got the budget for it. “... hehe. I can sing pretty well though! And I can dance too! And according to some of my boyish peers in the Marines, I'm am pretty cute! Why, Petty Officer Kyoko Nakagawa would make an excellent Idol for the Federal Fleet! And I believe that-”

“Is there anything else?” you say, cutting her off.

“No.” She seems disappointed, but not defeated. “But, we are now in orbit over Mars. And Major Harcourt is organizing a training drop for this afternoon. MWI Official Danner has also joined us aboard the ship.”

Great. Busy day then.

> Set up a business meeting in your new offices, see what Danner has to say.
> Go take a shower and oversee your Idols training for today. Training drops are no laughing matter.
> “I'll be right with you.” Lock yourself in your room and have a few shots.
> Other

>>580114
>Set up a business meeting in your new offices, see what Danner has to say.

>>580114
>Tell her you'll call her for an interview if your budget is ever expanded for another idol.

> Set up a business meeting in your new offices, see what Danner has to say.

>>580114
>> Go take a shower and oversee your Idols training for today. Training drops are no laughing matter.

>>580114
Supporting >>580130

>>580114
> Set up a business meeting in your new offices, see what Danner has to say.

>>580130
This please

>>580114
>I can sing pretty well though! And I can dance too!
Can we recruit her to train our girls on these things, and possibly move her onto the main roster once our budget is increased?

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>>580196
>train our girls on these things
This is a good idea

> Set up a business meeting in your new offices, see what Danner has to say.

“Well, hey, listen.” You step past Nakawhosit and smile at her. “If our budget expands, we'll call you in, alright?” She grins happily, edging on her tiptoes. “But we don't have the budget now, but we are going to discuss budget today in our meeting. Your name might come up, okay? Okay. Thanks!” You hurry past her, thank God.

-

-

You fan your face with a spare piece of paper, with Azuma, Mills, and now Danner and some of his associates coming in. The offices and the board room set out for you all were little more than disused storage areas that were repurposed into offices and a board room, and this shows in the fact that there were still spare boxes and crates intermixed with the desks for computers and what not. Honestly, it's all the same to you. It just means you don't have to spend much effort keeping things clean when things are already dirty. “So. Danner. If you please.”

Danner nods. “Right. We're already targeting the youth demographic. Let me very quickly lay out some obstacles for us.” One of his interns puts out a board, listing the obstacles in their entirety. “#1, the anti-war movement.” You scoff, figures. “There's a prevailing opinion among civilians, primarily in the Middle Regions to the Outer Colonies that this war is pointless and that we need to stop it. There-”

You wave your hand. “Could you make this quick, I'm cooking like a potato here.”

He sighs. If he still had eyes, you're sure he'd be rolling them like tires. “Fine. #2 on the list, other Idols. If we want our reputation to expand and to get our names out there, we have to start networking with these rival Idols, or remove them entirely from the Idol scene. Here are the Top 10 according to some reputable Fednet sites.”

> #1. SHANNON SHUJUMI
> #2. 731 PRODUCTION IDOLS
> #3. XENOGLASSIA GIRLS
> #4. COLONY GIRLS
> #5. UNIT 5 IDOLS
> #6. DISNEY PRODUCTION COMPANY TEEN IDOLS
> #7. HOPEWELL STARGIRLS
> #8. LUNAR LOVEY DOVEY LADIES
> #9. GALAXY GALS
> #10. STONEWALL BOYS

You nod. “So where would we be, starting out?”

He says, “#276.” Oh. That's quite... bad. “But, with sufficient manipulation of our Federal Network, and if the girls deliver as they should, we can and most likely will skyrocket to at least within the Top 20. We'll be opening with the Galaxy Gals too a couple days after the girls' training is complete.”

“And budget?” you ask.

“Budget will expand after the Prime Minister has a taste of our first concert,” he says. “But she is sending a bit more money our way however. I'd like to spend some of that money on some basic amenities, such as a dedicated songwriter or perhaps an instructor for dance or...”

[1/2]

>>580266
[2/2]

Azuma says, “What about that Nakajima girl?” Who? “You know, the Nakafujima girl. She came up to me this morning asking if I could talk to you about becoming an Idol for you. She's real excited about that.”

“We don't have the budget for another Idol,” says Danner. “... yet. I imagine five will be our upper limit after the concert.”

“Plus,” says Mills. “They only have a few days to learn how to dance and sing after they finish training.”

> “Let's wait for the budget to increase first.”
> “Get that Nakahama girl in here. Bring her in as an unpaid instructor.”
> “That Nakayama girl is going to be an Idol, even if I have to sell my pants to do it.”
> Other

>>580271
>> “Get that Nakahama girl in here. Bring her in as an unpaid instructor.”

>>580271
> “Get that Nakahama girl in here. Bring her in as an unpaid instructor.”
>See her talents as well

We can always give her back? Pay right and see if she is actually trained to handle the job, plus this is our ship? for the time being and I doubt we'll be shuffled around at the moment or her.

Afternoon Schteel. Hot-dropping later I see

>>580271
>Other
Can we get a buy-in from Fleet to attach Nakagawa to our idol troupe as a Fleet Idol? MI might do the dying, but we still need Fleet to fly us there.
That way, her pay comes from the Fleet budget, not ours.

>>580305
This. And if it doesn't work, make her work for a promise to make her an idol.

> “Get that Nakahama girl in here. Bring her in as an unpaid instructor.”
> Other

“Let's get that Nakafuji girl in here. If we can get some kind of buy-in from Fleet to attach her as some sort of Fleet Idol, we can save some money. She'd be Fleet's problem, not ours. And even before that, if she knows how to dance AND sing at the same time, she'd probably be a good instructor. Unpaid, maybe but-”

“Shouldn't we pay her?” asks Danner.

“Let's see.” You lean over onto the table and hit the intercom. “Petty Office Naka... Naka.”

“Yes?” she says. “And it's Nakagawa, Lieutenant!”

“Nakazawa, okay. Could you come into our meeting for a second. We'd like to talk to you.” You suddenly hear the sudden rush of footsteps coming closer and closer.

Then the door explodes open, and behind it a very eager Nakahama. “YES I'D LOVE TO BE THE FLEET IDOL!” She salutes you all. “PETTY OFFICER KYOKO NAKAGAWA IS READY TO BECOME RICH AND FAMOUS!”

…

“Um, PO.” She nods to you, smiling. “That's not exactly why we called you here.” She deflates immediately, disappointed again. “No, we might have a use for you. You said you knew how to dance and sing, right?”

“Of course!” She nods, coming closer. “I can demonstrate right now! Fa-”

“No, no!” You stop her. “Don't, it's alright. I believe you. But uh... listen, our budget doesn't allow us to particularly manage a fourth Idol at the moment. But, I believe you can have a use to us. How would you like to be the dancing and singing instructor, until we can hire a dedicated one, and eventually maybe even work things out with Fleet to let you be attached to the Idol group.” She processes this for a few seconds, now suddenly stern and thoughtful.

Then she nods. “I'll do my best!” She salutes you.

“Well, Danner?” You smile at him.

“Fine.” Danner sighs. “I guess that's another thing I'll have to work out. But, Naka um... whatisit can be an instructor for the girls on the side once they finish their training.”

“Speaking of which,” says Azuma. “They start their training drop in about an hour, Lieutenant. Were you gonna attend?”

> “No. I actually have to do Idol business sometimes you know.”
> “Sure! There's nothing like a training drop.”
> Other

>>580449
> “Sure! There's nothing like a training drop.”

>>580449
>"Thats in an hour, We have 30 minutes to kill before I join them Azuma. "

>>580449
This >>580474

>>579951
Well that works out well for now at least.

>>580449
>Other
That's an hour, so we still have 30 minutes to try to iron out some more idol stuff.

> Other

“We got time to kill.” You check your watch. Yeah, about thirty minutes worth. “Danner. Uh... fill me in on that anti-war stuff. Where exactly should we expect anti-war things?”

“Well, it mostly has to do with refugees moving into the Middle Regions to avoid the Arachnid raids. They spread bad publicity, people believe them, that ends up sending morale down to the floor, you know?” That's fair. You kick your feet up onto the table, leaning back. Nakahamara meanwhile finds a chair for herself, listening in. Eh, you guess she can join in, she's an instructor now at least. “So, we can't just throw ourselves out there just yet. We have to build up a fanbase first in the Sol system, first Earth, then Mars, then the Saturn colonies, then Pluto. Then we can consider moving outwards.”

“Right, right,” you say. “Have you seen the uniforms Saki made for them?”

“...” He taps his sunglasses. Oh right. “I'm sure they're cute. And I'm glad she made them on a budget, because I wasn't about to spend thousands trying to get Hugo Boss or whatever to design them for us. Perhaps she can be our little costume designer.”

“And hopefully that's what she'll remain as,” says Azuma.

“Right.” Danner snaps his finger. “Another thing. We're not popular with the CDF. Initial reports after the first reveal of the Starship Idols tells us that CDF personnel rate us at a resounding 0%.” What? Why? “They don't like the Federation in general. Let's just put it that way.”

“Well, how do we win them over?” you ask.

“That's for you to figure out, not me. I'm just advising you,” says Danner. Ugh, that's what EVERYONE says. “It's the same thing with the Outer Colonies in general, they're not fond of Federal involvement, they're more concerned with farms and incest and keeping the bugs off their land.”

Azuma leans in, suddenly offended. “Hey, we knew plenty of people from the Outer Colonies, they're not hicks, Danner.”

“Yeah, but if they lived to retire, did they stay in the Outer Colonies?” Azuma blinks, leaning back. “I didn't think so,” says Danner. “Most citizens retire back to Sol or the Inner Systems anyway. It's where we'll build our fanbase first.”

Nakatama raises her hand. “Question!” You look over. “So, will I have to like transfer into the MI or something?”

“No,” you say. “If you become an Idol, you'll be representing Fleet.”

“Oh, good!” She smiles. “I get to be the Fleet Idol then! Haha!” She slaps her chest. “Me, Petty Officer Kyoko Nakagawa, the Fleet Idol!” You roll your eyes.

“... right.” Danner looks to you. “Lieutenant. Is there anything else you want to discuss?”

> “More Idols.”
> “Equipment for my Idols.”
> “Nah, we're good.”
> Other

>>580668
>> “More Idols.”
>> “Equipment for my Idols.”

>>580668
> “Equipment for my Idols.”

>>580668
> “More Idols.”
> “Equipment for my Idols.”

Honestly thats super important. Maybe we can CDF company down the line or something, still owned by us but they 'compete' against our Feddies. this way we can have a friendly rivalry between the two but still profit from it.

>>580668
> “Equipment for my Idols.”
Fit what we've got first. Don't add new if you can't even handle what you've got.

>>580668
> “Equipment for my Idols.”

> “Equipment for my Idols.”

“Equipment.” He tilts his head. “I want the best and most advanced tech for my Idols. If they're going to drop, I want them to drop with the safety of the best suit and the best guns I can get them. Not just that, but microphones, earphones, things that can help them on the stage too would be great. Stuff like that. Is any of that in budget?”

“Well. The suits are going to come as they come,” says Danner. “Same with the guns. But as for the stage stuff. You'll have to scrounge up the budget yourself. See, the MWI mostly focuses it budget on the Federal Network news reels. We have to keep the public informed and keeping them informed is very expensive. We can't divert too many funds to your Idols just yet.” You roll your eyes. Ugh, typical bureaucracy. “But, given time, and an increase in reputation, we might be able to work something out.”

“What suits are they going to be getting?” asks Azuma.

“Same suits as everyone else, Paladin suits.” Hm, as much as you used the Paladin suits, you much preferred the Marauders. Much more survivable. We'll have to see if Olga's father delivers on anything. “I know you two might not like the Paladin suits, they are kind of streamlined. And to be honest, the next wave of Paladin suits are gonna be much more streamlined as well.”

“What are they cutting out in the new suits?” asks Azuma very candidly.

“That's classified, not even I know that,” he says. Oh great. “But listen, you do have free reign according to the Sky Marshal to modify the suits as you see fit. And hell, maybe the girls will get attached to their Paladins. In fact.” He snaps his finger, and places down a paint bucket and a spray bottle. “Ey?” He grins.

“I'm not letting my Idols paint their suits,” you say.

“Why not?” Danner blinks.

“The suits are olive drab and dull colors for a reason,” you say. “Camo, if they dress up in bright colors they'll be fucked six ways to Sunday.”

“But army drab and boring colors doesn't sell to teenage girls,” says Danner. You- … ugh, fuck he's right. “Anyway, I think we've discussed this long enough. Training drop, right?”

“Right.” You stand up. “Come on, Azuma. Mills. Naka.”

-

-

You stand on a catwalk, overlooking the drop hangar as the Recruits get their address from Major Harcourt, their new supervising instructor. Career Sergeant Dune and all of the Recruits, your Idols included, are now dressed out in white and blue Paladin suits for training. Their rifles will be filled with paint for the exercise as well. “Alright you apes! Listen up!” Major Harcourt addresses them through a microphone with his hoarse voice, an injury from the war. “This drop will be conducted as scheduled. There will be no pauses, hesitation, or inaction of any kind. You hesitate getting into your shell, and I guarantee you will be out of the Mobile Infantry. Do you get me!?”

“We get you, sir!” they shout.

[1/2]

File: SuitSoldierC.gif (100 KB, 492x630)

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>>580951
“Good. Your shells are designed to disintegrate at a designated safe altitude to cover your drop in their debris. Drag chutes will deploy first, then proper parachutes. In some cases, you will be asked not to drop with chutes at all. But for the purposes of this drop, you will be dropping with chutes. Once you have dropped, make your way to the rally point. Simple as one-two-three. Got that!?”

“Yes, sir!”

“Good. You have ten minutes to prepare! Those of you who are injured on the drop, you'll be happy to know we have two Fleet Hospital Corpsmen joining us. Dismissed!” Everyone scatters to their respective squads.

“Domino Squadron!” Olga holds out her hand. “Come on, let's do it!” All five of them stare at Olga. “... come on! Put your hands on top of mine!”

“What is this?” asks Lindstrom.

“It's a cheer! We're going to do this before every drop for good luck!” Rosalie smiles, placing her hand on top of Olga's. “There, see!” Olga whines to the rest. “Come on!”

“Oh, what the hell...” Stacy places her hand on top of Rosalies. Then comes Joey, Breckenridge, and hesitantly, Lindstrom.

Olga cheers. “Rise as many! Drop as one! One, two, three! Domino!” They raise their hands. “Whooo!” Rosalie politely claps while everyone starts to prepare their shells. “Hehe!... you liked it, right, Rosalie!”

“It'll catch on.” Rosalie comfortly pats Olga on her arm. She looks up at you. “Lieutenant. Are you not joining us?”

“Not today, no,” you say. “You're in Dune's hands.”

Stacy walks over. “Do you have any advice for the drop?” You can see her sort of quivering in her suit, shaking a little. “I-... I'm kind of shaking and I don't know why.”

> “Nope. It's a cakewalk your first time.”
> “Yeah, have light meals beforehand.”
> “The shaking is normal.”
> Other

>>580959
>> “Yeah, have light meals beforehand.”

>>580959
>“The shaking is normal.”

Its not recreational, its a drop.

>>580959
> “The shaking is normal.”
You'll get used to it eventually.

>>580959
>> “The shaking is normal.”

>>580959
> “Yeah, have light meals beforehand."
> “The shaking is normal.”

>>580959
> “Yeah, have light meals beforehand.”
> “The shaking is normal.”

Aw, no Marauders yet

>>581104
Marauders were actually the predecessor to the Paladin. They're being slowly phased out of service as while being extremely effective and very good at what they were built for, the costs of the war means that the Federation needs to start replacing it with something cheaper to save money.

There are still plenty of Marauders in service though.

>>581128
God damn it, this is why people die. Cutting costs.

> “Yeah, have light meals beforehand.”
> “The shaking is normal.”

You put up two fingers. “Two things. One, have light meals beforehand. You can always eat on the ground usually. Two, the shaking is very much normal. The shrink calls it an “eager race horse” thing. You're just looking to get out of the gate, Stacy.” Stacy nods, thumping her chest a bit.

“Alright, girls! Let's get a move on!” Olga bounces in place, then jumps into her shell. The other girls as well get into their shells as well, assisted by Fleet technicians. Joey, Lindstrom, and Breckenridge as well are assisted into their shells, which get sealed up and ready to be dropped. They're loaded into the drop tubes like ammo in an ancient firearm.

With that, Major Harcourt rides a lift up to you and introduces himself with a salute. “Lieutenant.” You salute back, nodding to him, allowing him to go at ease.

“I assume you've been briefed,” you say.

“Yes I have.” Major Harcourt leans on the rail, clearing his throat a bit, rasping out his next words to you. “The Sky Marshal was very detailed in his report. And I must say, I don't agree with it, but I won't protest. If it's the Sky Marshal's reckoning then so be it.” Oh, well, that's good then! “I also heard that you were going to be their producer. A Terran Cross winner herding around a bunch of teenage Idols, that's some combination.”

“Well, I try.” You lean on the railing as well. “How are the Suit Trials going to go?”

“Today will be a basic drop and rally trial. They got a time limit to head to the rally point. That time limit is their limited battery life which were deliberately drained beforehand without their knowledge.” Oh. Yeah, that'd get you moving too. “They gotta conserve energy and get moving otherwise their suit locks up and they have to wait hours before we can retrieve them.”

“Good thing Mars is partially terraformed then,” you say.

“Partially,” he says. “Air on Mars is like drinking tomato soup if you're not in a suit. I don't know how the Colonists do it.” He clips on his throat mic. “Alright, troopers. Are we ready!?”

“Yes, sir!”

“Deploy!” he commands. You hear several loud bangs as the drop begins. The drop tubes aren't really tubes more like giant cannons which do indeed fire the troopers out towards the planet proper. You and Harcourt along with Mills and Azuma proceed to a window, where you can see out to Mars proper. The troopers start descending down on the green, red, and blue planet like yellow rain.

[1/2]

>>581203
[2/2]

“Sir.” An aide to Harcourt hands him a screen, which shows the status of all recruits and Career Sergeant Dune going down planetside. “Sir, Outpost 36 also reports that they've recovered an abandoned cargo ship in orbit. They're investigating it now.”

“Alright,” says Harcourt. He looks to you. “36 will be a supply base for tomorrow's trial. It'll be a basic wargame, capture the flag, some shit like that. I couldn't care less to be honest, I just want to get this over with so I can get back to the front.”

“I thought they don't let injured Officers back to the front.”

He grunts. “They're making exceptions with the lack of manpower these days. Hell, if they hadn't let me anyway, I'd have just withdrawn and joined the CDF anyway. That's where most washouts end up anyways if they're that desperate to fight even without citizenship.”

> Well, find something to do then while the drop goes on. Maybe even crack open one of your smuggled whiskeys.
> Go to an observation room, to check in on the drop.
> Ask Harcourt for an introduction on the new suits. They seem a little off to you.
> Other

>>581209
>> Ask Harcourt for an introduction on the new suits. They seem a little off to you.

>>581209
> Ask Harcourt for an introduction on the new suits. They seem a little off to you.

then, if nothing kicks off.

> Go to an observation room, to check in on the drop.

I take it these drops don't have a 65% Kill ratio?

>>581209
> Ask Harcourt for an introduction on the new suits. They seem a little off to you.

New tech is always glitchy. Best figure out what's not right.

>>581218
Drop kill ratio varies wildly depending on the environment being dropped in and the amount of bugs shooting up at the troopers.

Reminds me of how in the anime OVA, they actually deployed with shells and everything, but for whatever reason they dropped the troopers in HEADFIRST.

>>581242
I take it Mars had the full bang from tenders, to Plasma and Wasps? i think they were called? Also why do i feel like the whole 'mostly' taken care of is just another way for the federation to miss a sweep?

BECAUSE WE'RE HEADSTRONG, GET SOME.

>>581290
The original Battle of Mars was really just a suicide raid on the Citizens' Systems Federation's mining and terraforming pet project, but it involved a fuckton of Warriors including some of the elite Guards Warriors.

And if you're wondering, the Bugs don't use the Plasma and the Hopper bugs portrayed in the movie (though the Hoppers are available as auxiliary support, a kind of evil K-9 Corps). They have some sort of strange understanding that specialized castes bred for warfare would be useless for anything OTHER than warfare. Even Warriors occasionally spend time digging tunnels with Workers.

Although the MI and Fleet did drive off and exterminate most of the raiding force, there are still remnants running around harassing science parties here and there. The Federation leaves it up to the Mars CDF to deal with them.

>>581314
Really? The Plasma bugs were switched out, Fuck they were in everything. What took over for them? The freaky god damn laser scorpions?

Says a Raid, I ask where the nest is that they missed. A world is never safe once the bugs touch it.

>>581328
Plasma Bugs in the Starship Idols universe are never deployed on the frontlines, instead they're deep within the hives acting as giant Honeypot ants of sorts, where they're hooked up to generators and basically act as living batteries for an entire Arachnid hive. They secrete the much needed plasma which drives most of the Arachnid technology, weapons, Starships, tanks, etc.

>>581355
Ah, Alrighty then. Thanks for clearing that up Schteel.

> Ask Harcourt for an introduction on the new suits. They seem a little off to you.

“So how are the new suits like?” you ask. “They seem kind of off to me. Stiff.”

“That's because they are.” He leads you all over to the lift, then sends you down to the hangar where dozens of spare suits are stood and ready for deployment. “The new Paladin suits are very uh... let's just say that they're not exactly Marauders. They work, they're great, but they're not the Marauders you might be familiar with.”

“How so?” you ask.

“First off, the Y-Rack got replaced with an inverted L-Rack for rapid dispensing of grenades. Secondly, jump pack thrusters can no longer be adjusted, they're now fixed in place.” Oh, that's a bad thing. “Then the flexibility. Yeah, there really isn't a lot of flexibility. Sitting down in a Paladin is like torture. Stepping to the side is a chore. And the electronics well... the electronics are built by a company named Yutani or some shit.”

“So. The suits suck,” you say.

“Kind of,” he says. “For now, they work. But, the Arachnids simply haven't realized the difference just yet. Once they do, I'm sure they'll mow us down like grass.”

“Um. I don't suppose I could get my Idols some Marauders to use?” you ask.

He folds his arms. “Why do you ask?”

“Survivability,” you say. “Look, I want the best for them. If we have Marauders, I want them.”

Major Harcourt hums a bit, thinking on it. “Tell you what. We'll see how they do in today's trials and I'll consider it. The Marauders are good, but they're not for the faint of heart.” Yeah, that's for sure. “Lieutenant, if it makes you feel better, I don't agree with the Idol business. I do think though that the girls deserve their chance at Citizenship like everyone else however. Everyone is equally treated under my care.”

“I see.” You place your hands on your hips then, biting your lip. “So... Marauders then.”

“We'll see.”

…

> Head to the Observation Room.
> Go back to your room and relax. You need a drink anyway.
> Explore the ship a little, see what you can see.
> Other