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When no one shows up for training one day it doesn't take long to figure something must be going wrong. The Caretaker Warrior Uller and the novice Ran who had previously helped your team eventually find you.

"Will someone -anyone- answer where everyone else went?" Illya asks.

"There is a security alert in the lower levels of the Polar region. Command and control is being reinforced while other teams are moving to investigate. Guarding you all is a waste of time and resources that could be better spent doing other things."

It seems the Empire may have detected your team's use of the secondary transit system.

You shrug. "Since you're already in trouble we could help you out. It's not like you can get in any more trouble because of us right?"

"Possible..." Uller admits "-but I doubt it. Thank you."

Outfitting the team with new gear in the Caretakers own armory, you acquire a form fitting suit of indestructible, but very light weight armor. Ran has equipped it with a module that will allow it to function as power armor but warns to use it as little as possible.
"We don't know how long the power unit will function at sustained operational levels."

Splitting up, half your team went with Uller to the manual controls for one of the sphere's wormhole gates. Your half went with Ran to the Manufacturing level nearest the potential area of enemy infiltration. There you soon encountered and defeated an enemy team composed of Rovinar. These were not the ones you've usually encountered in Faction space, but might be an offshoot species native to the sphere.

These were not the only enemies on the manufacturing level. While you were busy engaging the Rovinar a team of Neeran Commandos made use of the fabricators to construct an assault shuttle. They gained an early lead by destroying your team's vehicle. Rufaro was able to damage their shuttles weapons and your fire wounded several members of their team, but ultimately they escaped.

Ran was able to quickly send a warning to the control center, letting them block off routes to the higher levels.

>Cont.

Uller contacts you. "They're headed for the defense system. Unwise, but under the circumstances it might be better for them than taking on the strongest Caretakers in an even fight. I'm considering linking up with your team."

"Is the gate system safe?" you ask.

"Debatable. Anything I've done can be undone almost as easily, it will just take time."

Deciding to link up with Uller's team both groups make for the defense system in pursuit of the enemy force. With the entrance they used blocked by the remains of their shuttle it's necessary to divert up a short level and to the east you park near another entrance and wait for Uller and the others to arrive. It doesn't take long.

"Where are they?" the larger Caretaker asks.
"They blocked their entrance by jamming their shuttle into it." you explain.

"What did we miss?" asks Troy.
"Shooting, dodging, pulling multiple G's in an out of control vehicle."
"Oh good."

Marching towards the entrance Ran and Uller halt at the base of a ramp gently sloping upwards into another area. Beyond it you cant see anything just darkness.
"What is it?"

"We've never been here before." Ran answers.
Uller points at a ledge on the ceiling featuring builder script. What little you can make out seems to be a warning. That's never good, which seems to be a theme here.

"So, what hazards does it warns us of?" asks Illya, clearly wanting to get on with it.

"Time dilation."

Expedition Polar Team

Sonia Reynard
Valeri Fusaro
Knight Illya
Troy Harmen
Ella Rufaro
Lt Arif Sayadov
Uller [Neeran] Caretaker, warrior
Rán [Neeran] Novice Caretaker

The Sphere
Veur [Neeran] Caretaker, warrior
Tiur [Neeran] Caretaker, interrogator

Alliance
Liljana Brantha - [Hune Female] Alliance Ambassador to the Sphere
Darweg Attir [Shallan Male] Status: under arrest

Enemy Personnel
"Girisha" [Neeran] Neeran Empire - Fleet Commander, Dyson sphere occupation fleet

Current loadout
12.7mm Rifle
Chemical cartridge based laser rifle
Plasma cell Grenades

Retractable Shield
Singing Sword: Converter
Left arm artifact slot: Lighting Artifact
Right arm artifact slot: Plasma Artifact
(Spare) Amplifier artifact

For House and Dominion time shenanigans edition! Panic?

For House and Dominion! Hands off my salvage! Edition.

Magical Girl Edition where?

Connection error.
Testing.

Just spent the past half hour fixing my browser. Decided to deal with a bullshit youtube update via maximum adblocker. Only I accidentally blocked everything forever.


>>2411746
>For House and Dominion time shenanigans edition! Panic?
Yes, worried laughter edition.

>>2411772
Anon, that is every edition.

>>2411785
Rufaro pokes you while riding towards the next destination.
"So you know what a magical girl is huh?"
"It was a phase. Shut up."
Thinking that comment over for a second you turn back to her.
"Wait that means you know what that is. You don't have any room to judge me!"
"I was watching one of Valeri's videos while waiting for you one day."
Both of you turn to look at your other bodyguard.

Valeri gives Rufaro one of the most hate filled glares you've ever seen from him, slowly shaking his head.

>>2411724
FOR HOUSE AND DOMINION

I really regretted not putting up a Dramatis Personae post last thread, even just for the polar team.

>Sounds like the stasis crap our team dealt with earlier. Only an entire region. Let's head on in!
One vote for that from last thread.

>Are there hazmat suits or something similar for this section nearby? I'd hate to run into some weird temporal side effects that could be avoided by taking a pill or putting on a helmet.
Uller laughs briefly. "I doubt anything short of a stasis field would protect you from that."

The team was able to get a few Medical stasis fields made based on Alliance models.

>OR we could start cutting power cables. I'm sure that would help.
Uller considers this.
"It's not a terrible idea, but as this place seems to be a nexus of power conduits from all over the sphere I'm not certain we could disable enough of them ourselves."
>Maybe we should contact the Caretakers about this fucky shit instead? Check our messages?
Ran heads over to one of the vehicles to do just that.

Uller goes back to reading the warnings in greater detail. A few moments later Ran calls out an update.
"Others are heading towards this area but they're still ten minutes away. I've sent an update about the grounded shuttle."

Uller completes his reading.
"If this is correct time should be moving more slowly inside that chamber than outside."
"How slow?"
"One tenth of normal speed."

"So an hour out here would be 6 minutes in there." concludes Troy. "That's not so bad."

"It may worsen in places."

So much for that. Still there are worse things. Plus with the time dilation they wont have much of a head start on your party.
"We should be relatively near their position right?"

Uller can't say, and the AHCR team markers warned about space/distance distortions.

Did you want to contact the other Caretakers or head in?

>>2411902

I vote to head in. More time we give them the more time they have to hide or mess something up inside of there. Last time I voted to meet them, we lost our loot. If they meet up with us this time they might just imprison us.

Better to beg forgiveness then ask for permission.

>>2411902
Let's do it. No glory without guts.

>>2411902
>head in

>>2411902
Wait for the other team.

>>2411902
No breaks on the Sonia train. Once more into the breach we go! Charge!

"Better to beg forgiveness then ask for permission. We're going in, let's get ready to do this people!"

Everyone double checks their equipment to make sure nothing important has been left in either vehicle.
"How much in the way of supplies should we bring?" asks Troy.

[ ] We need to travel light. The bare minimum for a few days.
[ ] Best to be prepared. We can dump gear later if we need to.

>>2411992
>[ ] Best to be prepared. We can dump gear later if we need to.

>>2411992
>[ ] Best to be prepared. We can dump gear later if we need to.

>>2411992
>[ ] Best to be prepared. We can dump gear later if we need to.

>>2411992
>[x] Best to be prepared. We can dump gear later if we need to.

>>2411992
>[ ] Best to be prepared. We can dump gear later if we need to.
Should we run a rope from our point of entry?

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"Best to be prepared. We can dump gear later if we need to."

With the new armor being so light even loading yourself down with supplies like before seems to make little difference. The previous armor may not have been the heaviest thing you've ever worn but it certainly added up. Geading through the entrance way you hope the team will be abble to set a faster pace despite the supplies.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KC1Axj2Xes [ ME3 - Cerberus Coup ]

Passing through the entrance there is little to see at first aside from the upward sloping ramp. You do notice that it's getting darker.

"No big deal, just like going to the movie theater." comments Sayadov.

Rufaro watches a readout on her communicator as the group heads farther up the ramp and finally into a darkened chamber. it takes a moment for your eyes to adjust and realise that there is a light sources just very faint and distant. A point of blue light seems to be one of the few things that stand out, seemingly surrounded by swirling darkness.

Very little light reflects off the floors but it's enough to navigate by. Rufaro continues to adjust her communicator pointing it different directions. Seeing you looking she explains.
"It has a small sensor array built in. I was able to record the change in time dilation as we walked up the ramp by sending a signal to another communicator there.
It looks like this room is a sphere."

Sure enough what few places you can see light throughout the chamber would seem to give the impression of at least part of a sphere. You can't see all the way to the other side however.
Remembering the readouts of the defense system you saw on the map previously you turn to Ran.
"I thought this room was shaped like a torus?"

"Non-linear space." observes Ran. "There may be some light bending properties closer to the center."

There doesn't appear to be any sign of the enemy team that you can see from here. With the poor lighting it's difficult to get a sense of scale.

Uller opens a map projector and points the way toward the light source.
"We do not wish to waste time. Don't stop."

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Picking up the pace you get moving to keep up with the big Neeran.

Not far from your starting point you see what seems to be a thin pillar sticking up out of the floor standing at about shoulder height. Slowing enough to examine it you note that the top of it is like the head of a needle. A wide circular base has markings pointing off in different directions, with the most prominent ones lined up with holes of the needle.

You get Uller's attention and step over to it.
"What is this?" you ask.

"Looks like a cigarette receptacle." is Sayadov's assessment.

Neither caretaker is certain but Ran quickly notes that the more prominent lines match up with others on the floor surrounding it. Grabbing hold of the top he begins to turn the pillar almost like a key.

[ ] See what happens
[ ] Suggest he stop

Anyone else having trouble with posting or image uploads?

>>2412233
>[ ] See what happens

File: 5f0.gif (2.59 MB, 540x300)

2.59 MB GIF

>>2412233
[ ] See what happens
Oh boy

>>2412245
Testing

>>2412233
>Grabbing hold of the top he begins to turn the pillar almost like a key.
"If we come out 10000 years in the future you guys better have a time machine hidden away somewhere!"

>>2412233
>[x] See what happens
"If it's non-linear space maybe this controls where we'll exit out?"

>>2411741
Just noticed I missed Eldal on that Polar Team list.

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You mutter that this had batter not land you ten thousand years in the future. You're not prepared to reconquer your planet with a seven man team.

Once the pillar has been turned to align with the most prominent markers, the connecting lines on the floor light up with the hum of electricity. Looking ahead it seems that the glowing line meets another pillar in the distance.

With the extra light Ran sees something worrying. Uller hands over the map which Ran pages through quickly, zooming out.

"Oh no."

"Spit it out, we don't have time."

"These pillars are connected to the transit system."

"I thought this was the defense system? Are they linked?"
"The defense system must channel power from different parts of the sphere using the transit system. These pillars control the towers."

That probably has some sinister implications you dont have time to deal with.
"Can the Empire use the transit system now that this is turned on?"

"Potentially, if a path of them are linked all the way to the pole."
Glancing around you try to spot signs the Neeran Commando team might be doing the same thing.

Uller considers options.
"They channel energy. If we turn enough of them on it would be too dangerous to use the transit system. Intruders trying to pass though them would be killed by the energy flow."

"If we turn enough on it will power up the defense system, yes?" asks Illya.

"In theory, but that means more of the transit system is potentially vulnerable." answers Ran.
"Either way we'll need to get to the center and set the defense system duration. That should also be where the connections to the poles are. I think."

Uller nods.
"At least the the Empire's people should be headed there. To open the connections to the poles if nothing else."

Some of you need to get to the center as soon as possible, its just the question of if others will try to deal with the pillars.

[ ] Everyone get to the center ASAP, ignore the pillars
[ ] Some of the team try to find and disable activated towers
[ ] Try to power up enough towers to block transport
[ ] Try to activate the defense system

Unless there are any other suggestions?

>>2412467
Find a way to disable activated towers or a way to preven them from being activated.

>>2412467

Two teams, one continue on to the center to stop them. The other to go around and power up enough to block transport. If I understand what was just said correctly. What we are doing now is basically priming the defense system. So it seems we're going to end up doing what Troy suggested a thread or so ago in the end. Powering the defensive system and hunting down the remaining Neeran inside the sphere.

>>2412467
>[ ] Some of the team try to find and disable activated towers

>>2412477
>or a way to preven them from being activated.
Unfortunately that would require stopping the enemy team.

>>2412486
>The other to go around and power up enough to block transport. If I understand what was just said correctly.
Sounds like you've got it.

>>2412477
>>2412504
"Let's split up. One team will make for the center, the rest will try to find and disable activated towers."

On foot Eldal is easily the fastest person on the team, though with the armor upgrade you'd be fairly close for short distances. Same with Valeri.

Did you want Eldal to make for the center and try to delay or hold off the enemy until you arrive? Or would you prefer that he help those trying to deactivate the towers?

>>2412581

Prefer that he sticks with the team heading further in.

>>2412607
At least one of the Caretakers must accompany the team going to the center of the area. Sonia and Valeri being fast, and Ran being the most combat capable would make the most sense.

>Central team
Eldal
Sonia Reynard
Valeri Fusaro
Uller [Neeran] Caretaker, warrior


>Everyone else
Ella Rufaro
Knight Illya
Troy Harmen
Lt Arif Sayadov
Rán [Neeran] Novice Caretaker

Objections to this team layout?

>>2412671

I think it looks good.

Quiet night I guess.

>>2412671
No Objections

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHyO8ztfE8k [ Winter Soldier - Taking A Stand ]

You, Valeri, Eldal and Uller head for the center of the chamber. Everyone else heads off with Ran, who is attempting to use one of the maps to determine which pillar switches are being activated.

The four of you move as quickly as can be maintained not knowing just how far it is to the center of this place. You take to using some additional power for the suit in small amounts in order to not exhaust yourself. Uller is clearly moving quickly for someone his size and you have to wonder how long he can keep it up. Or how long you can for that matter.

After an hour on the move your group stops, or at least slows to try and get a better bearing on how far it is to go. Looking over the map in frustration Uller curses and directs you towards the nearest pillar.

"What is it?" you ask.

Handing you the map, the Caretaker momentarily rotates the switch into place. Floor lines light up giving you a much better idea of where you're headed. Deactivating the switch the group resumes on the new course.

"I might have known it wouldn't be this simple."

You glance sidelong at him waiting for an explanation.

"I suspect the switches when activated help to... lineate the space in this chamber?"
"Really?"
"I am not at all certain. Of anything in this place. We may have been thrown considerably off course. Our foes meanwhile are making it easier for themselves to find their goal."

Damn.
Glancing around for anything that might help you spot what seems to be a structure or elevated platform.
"What's that?"
"It may be another entrance." says Valeri

Uller is certain that this is closer to the center. If it is another entrance you could stick your head out long enough to communicate with the caretakers. If not an entrance then you could keep going again without much delay.

>Investigate Y/N?

Didn't realise how late it was.
Resuming in the morning!

>>2412922
>Yes

>>2412922
>Y
We've come this far. Might as well head a little deeper into the rabbit hole.

>>2412922
Y

"Might as well look into it. If it's nothing then it just means we'll have taken a breather."

Heading towards it the group slows and you take a moment to get a drink. The platform seems to be made from a different looking material then the rest of the room. Seeming to have the appearance of stone, it's still difficult to see it in the chamber's poor lighting. After a few seconds of reading Uller quickly determines it to be safe enough.
"It's not a ramp, but a lift. Quickly everyone aboard, I think I know what this is."

Stepping onto the platform the Caretaker presses a slightly elevated panel and the platform begins to descend. Once deep enough that Uller is inside doors iris shut above you.

"Not again." Valeri protests.

Gravity seems to shift and then you're heading upwards again, only this time when the doors open it's not into the same chamber. A number of tall stone pillars dot the immediate area as do a few stone benches. Some of the pillars house light sources giving off a soft yellow glow, making it easy to see everything in the area.
Looking up you can see that this is a spherical chamber much like the previous. Small points of light around the sphere indicate that your surroundings are not the only area like it in here.

Uller steps over to one of the pillars and reads some of the script written on them.
"This is a reading room. Time is different here. We could spend as long as we like and only seconds would pass outside."
After a few more seconds reading he continues.
"It's possible to be pointed towards particular locations with information we might seek, or ask to be taken there."

>Was there any information you wanted to look for? Or did you want to go back?

>>2413587
How does the defense system work? An abridged idiots guide to an impenetrable shield.

>>2413598
"How does the defense system work?" you ask.

Uller does some checking. Rather predictably that information isn't here. He can ask to be pointed towards it, or that you be taken to where it is.

[ ] Point the way
[ ] Take us there

>>2413587
Are there any writings from the builders of the sphere here?

>>2413607
I am sure there are other things worthy of note here. But I wanna say, take us there, unless other anons have something else they want to see.

>>2413587
Oh dear. So much potential for questions here.

Details on the precursors that made the Neerans the Caretakers please.

Information about the funding of the Republic and how Humans where a part of it.

Those two are the top of my list straight of my head.

Is there anything on how to interact with kythera available? It might help that fleet that's trying to establish proper contact with them.

>>2413612
"Before we move on, what sort of things are written down here?"

Uller expresses annoyance or frustration. It's hard to tell which.
"This search system is not the most robust. It seems that it will point you to the right area but not provide specifics of where in that area something might be, or what is nearby. Clearly people are expected to take their time."

That would make sense. In this place you have all the time in the world. Still you'd rather not spend months or years in here.

"Maybe we can just skim the local info? Get the kids short reader version?"

Uller does his best to skim as you suggested. Much of the information here seems to pertain to plasma interactions, either with the artifact or for the sphere's star. Others are about communication and sensors. Useful to be certain but not what you're looking for right now.

>>2413587
Something like "Follow these 10 easy steps to triple your lifespan"?

>>2413648
There doesn't appear to be anything on establishing contact with artificial life forms. Most of there sphere's preservation efforts were focused on organic or naturally occurring life.

>>2413627
"Is there any info on the founding of the Republic?"
"No, too recent. I doubt we would find that in here. Most of what will be in a reading room like this one is information about the sphere itself. There is some on the inhabitants of the sphere as well."

>1) Select info destination
1a) Defense System
1b) Previous Caretakers

>2)
2a) Point the way
2b) Take us there (1 vote) 45nYTISy

>>2413656
Inyeractions of plasma with the artifact or the spheres star... now of we could come back here later and use this library again we could sky rocket Dominion plasma technology far beyond the Republic.

But alas, another trip.

Sensor info would be inyeresting for spooks, to find ways to better develop cloaking devices to hide from sensors. But again, another trip.

Thanks for the quick explination. I'm ready to head to the sphere defense explination for dummies, section. If there isn't anything else other anons want to see/ read.

>>2413665
Reminder we can become ageless with our serum we've done our best at ignoring.

1b) Previous Caretakers
2b) Take us there

>>2413677
Is there anything on other installations built by the sphere builders?

"Is there anything on other installations built by the sphere builders?"

"I believe there may be, however I am getting the impression it will not be as easy to find."

Option added:
1c) Other installations

>>2413665
>Something like "Follow these 10 easy steps to triple your lifespan"?
Uller believes there may be information of use to Neeran but not Humans.

>>2413677
Currently 1 vote for Defense System, 1 vote for info on Previous Caretakers.

Can we get a tie breaker?

>>2413767
I'm super curious about the history of this thing but just in case that we get locked out or something similar after our first search I think we should go for the info on the defense system next. Once we have that we should still have more than enough time to look up the rest if things go well.

>>2413767
D-System

A little worried that you might get locked out or discovered if searching for too much stuff you decide to stick with the defense system.

"You'd better have it take us to the defense system into."

After working with a primitive interface for a few minutes Uller steps away and takes up a position near all of you.
"I've never done this before. The reading room should be able to accept basic audio commands now, even from from you three. That should help if we become separated."

The Caretaker gives the order and the floor begins to shift underneath you while the pillars and benches retract into the floor. An indicator appears on the floor nearby pointing the way. You were wondering if the platform would begin to move and carry you there but instead the floor begins to move.
The indicator remains in place and you find yourself having to walk, then run as you realise the entire chamber is beginning to rotate. Gravity is also diminishing as it speeds up.

"Jump!" shouts Valeri.

All four of you leap into the air as the floor beneath you continues to accelerate. A light source from one of the other reading areas flashes past below.
"A little strange but this is one way to get there quickly."

Another light source goes by. As you approach a third you notice that one of the pillars here haven't retracted into the floor like the others. The four of you fly by it a little too close for comfort.

"This area may require maintenance." comments Uller.

Looking ahead you see others that likewise haven't retracted.

[ ] Dodge
[ ] Stop!

>>2413910
Stop. We're not in a hurry.

>>2413910
If we're not above a bottomless abyss, lets stop. Otherwise, do a barrel roll! (Dodge)

>>2413910
>[ ] Dodge

>>2413921
>If we're not above a bottomless abyss
You're not.

>>2413910
>[ ] Dodge
Weeeei. Magical girl Sonia shows her acrobatic skills.

>>2413910
>[ ] Dodge
Can we use the convertor to fly? Turn gravitational energy into kinetic?

>>2413974
>Can we use the convertor to fly? Turn gravitational energy into kinetic?
You're in microgravity. Not much to absorb or convert unfortunately.

"Dodge!" you warn the others.

Roll 4d20

Rolled 7, 10, 8, 2 = 27 (4d20)

>>2414041
Sonia Super double roll dodge!

Rolled 10, 3, 11, 13 = 37 (4d20)

>>2414041

Lets see what my IP is this time stupid phone.

Rolled 10, 20, 15, 4 = 49 (4d20)

>>2414041

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qLL9TSXZ-eM [ TDK - Introduce A Little Anarchy ]

Dodging was your idea but it seems you have the hardest time with it. Twisting your body around you manage to avoid one of the taller pillars of the next area. There's is a rush of air as if whips past far too close for comfort. Still, you're managing to keep ahead.

After a few more close calls Valeri helps to give you a boost to avoid a wall that is taller than the previous ones.
"This is getting downright dangerous!" you shout.
Despite this you don't call a halt.

Uller is struggling a bit though not as badly as you. Eldal seems to be fine.

Fortunately it's not that much farther to where you needed to go. The rotation slows and gravity begins to return to normal levels. A few more bounding leaps and the party arrives at the edges of another lit area.
Five wall sections with writings, more than a dozen and several benches are waiting. The surrounding surface is a bit uneven. Uller is quick to determine that many more of pillars here can be raised, containing even more information.

"What else is here?"

"Besides the defense system? Information on the sphere's artificial geology."

Too bad Rufaro isn't here. Your little brother would probably find it neat too but you're sure as hell not bringing him to the sphere. Mom wouldn't allow it.

All four of you get to work reading. You Valeri and Eldal are not that well versed but you can make out some of the words. Much of what is here is similar to part of what were on the metal book plates included among Svidur's artifacts. A few hours of reading later it's decided to make camp as this could take some time.

Glad for the extra supplies everyone makes sure to eat well while you're camped here. While Uller does mot of the heavy work the rest of you try to reconfigure one of the maps to assist with translation. Not what it was meant for but if it works it would be a big help.

Roll 1d100

Rolled 94 (1d100)

>>2414241

Rolled 60 (1d100)

>>2414241

Rolled 1 (1d100)

>>2414241

Having something of a breakthrough on the second day camped you're soon able to use the modified map to read off and translate the builder script. It's certainly a dense subject matter. Thanks to this though the four of you are able to get through the information far more quickly.

There are some minor setbacks, for instance when you realise that one of the more characters has been translating wrong forcing a redo of some sections. Despite this what you do translate is enough to get Uller's attention when you stumble onto a key piece of information.

"It's not a defense system."

"What? Are you sure?" you ask, glancing at it yourself.
"Yes, though it can double as one. It's a preservation system."

"Is there really a difference?" wonders Eldal.

"The outer shell of there sphere acts as a Faraday cage. Once the gates are closed and the system is active it becomes a stasis field generator. One that is completely impenetrable."

That would explain having to set the duration before activating the system.

>What say?

>>2414384
Wait, how does that work? Wouldn't the outer shell still remain vulnerable to anti matter weaponry? And why would you need something like that if it's not intended as a defensive system?

>>2414384
So zero time will pass inside the sphere whilst any situation on the exterior can be resolved?

Is it meant more as a last resort than a proper defense?

Has it been used before?

>>2414443
"Wouldn't the outer shell still remain vulnerable to anti matter weaponry?"
"Only the outer few nanometers, if that."

"So zero time will pass inside the sphere whilst any situation on the exterior can be resolved?"
"Effectively? Yes."

"Why would you need something like that if it's not intended as a defensive system?" you have to wonder.

Uller goes back to an area he had checked earlier.
"It may have been an experiment. This place was built to gather and preserve life, we all know that much, but from what?"

"Uh... extinction?"

"Yes but there are many things that can cause that. Or many reasons to preserve intelligent life."

"So it's an Ark?" ask Valeri.

"Yes." Uller finds the section he was looking for.
"This didn't make sense without context before because it's referencing other pieces I hadn't read yet. It's meant to wait out changes in the universe. Not specifically what though. Damn thing is being cryptic again."

"Changes." you repeat. "Like, the Terrans ending the universe?"

"Or even the heat death of the universe." adds Eldal. "Its not like there wouldn't be time to spare with a stasis field."

Well that's certainly some things to consider. You really wish one of the scientists were here.
"Has it been used before?"

"No... yes. Briefly! It must have been a test."

>>2414668
Was the sphere actually considered finished before the builders handed it over to the first caretakers? Or is each caretaker generation supposed to keep working on it?

>>2414685
>>2414685
>Was the sphere actually considered finished before the builders handed it over to the first caretakers? Or is each caretaker generation supposed to keep working on it?
Uller regrets that you'll have to look elsewhere for confirmation on that answer, but all of the key systems on the sphere are operational and functioning.

"Empty sectors can be terraformed to suit most environments within reason in a surprisingly short period of time given what is involved. The only thing that cant be said is complete is the wormhole gate that was damaged. I'm not entirely convinced that it hasn't been fixed already."

>>2414668
Sounds like it was meant for a false vacuum event. In any case, could we dial the power back a bit and have it recharge in years instead of centuries? We need it to survive some weapons fire, not the end of the universe.

>>2414668
>"Or even the heat death of the universe." adds Eldal
That's not how it works Eldal. The sun inside the sphere is not infinite.

In any case. Seems Precursors where afraid of some cataclysmic event of some sort. Hopefully it has passed us by and we are living in the post apoc. If not then I am very worried.

>>2414724
Does the system have different settings aside from stasis duration?

>>2414668
Also, if activated it would include the heavy cruiser inside yes?

>>2414753
>That's not how it works Eldal. The sun inside the sphere is not infinite.
"Why would it need to be? Wouldn't it be inside the stasis field as well?" Eldal shrugs. "I'm not as well versed in physics as Risto. He actually went to school."

>>2414761
>Does the system have different settings aside from stasis duration?
Doesn't seem like it.

>>2414765
>Also, if activated it would include the heavy cruiser inside yes?
Yes unfortunately, everything inside. The Empire's forces, including their heavy cruisers, would be stuck here as well.

"So this isn't a defense system." Valeri concludes.
"No. Ran and I have been mistranslating it. As have your scientists. I'm sure the caretakers who knew better were only too happy to play along with false information."

"So would it stand to reason that there is a real defensive system?" Valeri asks.

"There might be."

A) Look for info on real Defense System
B) Previous Caretakers
C) Other builder installations

>>2414881

Well that was enlightening and potential disaster averted. Activate the stasis system believing it a defense system and accidentally trap us all forever in a mega sized stasis chamber.

>A) Look for info on real Defense System

>>2414881
A) Look for info on real Defense System
I want info on the previous Caretakers but I want to focus on what we need here. Would also be interesting to see what the Precursors considered to be the "Changes" that where so terrifying.

>>2414881
>C) Other builder installations
The guys running the sphere already told us why they didn't use their conventional defenses.

Also, can we ask Uller how their government works? I would like to know who gets to decide what when it comes to decisions for the caretakers as a whole.

>>2414881
A

"Good thinking. Let's try to find info on the real defense system."

This time Uller sights out which direction you'll be headed and how far it is. That helps determine if you'll have to dodge high speed masonry. Fortunately this time it looks like you'll only have to dodge a few walls and pillars towards the start.

The room rotates around your team again and before long you touch down at another area of interest. Uller soon determines this place to be a dead end, moving on to another. A day later you relocate again. That one had some information on the internal defenses. The third place has better luck.

Uller determines there are two possible systems. The first is what may be a subsystem of repulsors intended for long term maneuvering or to assist the active asteroid defenses. Used en masse they could potentially put out enough power to deflect an incoming antimatter stream. Against ships with accelerators as powerful as what the Scorcher uses it might only be able to counter one of them.
Not good news.

The other is a type of energised defense grid that strengthens molecular bonds. This is similar to what some Neeran from the Empire can do. While effective against most conventional weapons its efficacy against antimatter is another story altogether. It might be possible to increase the power of this grid to the point where it would create a magnetic field sufficient to repel an incoming antimatter stream, but there is no guarantee.

"Are there no regular shields?!"
"No. Conventional shield generators like those used by the factions require very regular maintenance cycles or they can begin to degrade. Not ideal for a structure intended to last millennia."

>Ideas?

>>2415227
>Ideas?
We could use the wormhole gates to teleport huge amounts of plasma from the main star outside the sphere and then use the repulsor system to accelerate it. We'd end up with a huge plasma cannon.

>>2415227
What would be interesting is if the grid could decrees the strength between the molecules to a point of degradation and then push grid out from it self. Like a giant sphere of energy that disintegrates everything

>>2415303
Or a giant omni-directional lightning cannon?

>>2415227
Expand the stasis field so it chops the Neeran ships into pieces?
Use the gravity control system to rip them to pieces?

>>2415227
Could we use that energy grid in a similar manner to Iserhorn Fortress from Legend of Galactic Heros? And just vaporize any fleet orbiting it?

>>2415315
Giant lightning deathball sounds fun and fits Sonia's new-found love of the Gauntlet.

>>2415334

The Iserlohn Fortress from LoGH was what gave me the idea.

>>2415303
I dont have a reaction image suitable for this.gifjpgwavavimp4

Initial reaction is that this sounds plausible, though hard to do.

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>>2415382
>:)

>>2415227
If they're shooting an antimatter stream at the sphere, shouldn't it simply be enough to shoot regular matter at that stream as long as they impact each other far enough from the sphere?

The sphere has the necessary repulsors and lots of stored matter.

>>2415382
I linked the wrong post. This was to be in response to this: >>2415251

>>2415303
>What would be interesting is if the grid could decrees the strength between the molecules to a point of degradation and then push grid out from it self.
That would cause the grid to destroy itself in the process. You are describing an explosion.

>Like a giant sphere of energy that disintegrates everything
It sounds like you are going for something like a 40k power weapon. That could be theoretically possible. In some ways it is similar to an e-beam.

>>2415315
>Or a giant omni-directional lightning cannon?
>>2415345
>>2415329
>Could we use that energy grid in a similar manner to Iserhorn Fortress from Legend of Galactic Heros? And just vaporize any fleet orbiting it?
Not easily. It could theoretically be used to power a large weapons array if one were constructed and moved into position on the exterior of the sphere. The Empire would of course contest any attempt to do so.

The defense grid also wouldn't be able to protect any weapon mounted on top of it.

>>2415322
>Expand the stasis field so it chops the Neeran ships into pieces?
Unfortunately the sphere's stasis preservation system is more similar to older types of stasis generators. It needs to make use of a faraday cage so it's limited to enclosing the structure of the sphere itself.

>Use the gravity control system to rip them to pieces?
Interesting, but the gravity focusing system isn't meant to influence much outside the sphere. Potentially could be done via the wormholes.

>>2415408
>If they're shooting an antimatter stream at the sphere, shouldn't it simply be enough to shoot regular matter at that stream as long as they impact each other far enough from the sphere?
The sphere's asteroid defenses are effectively lasers. Very little mass being thrown at a target. Yes there are enough of them to kill super heavy cruisers, but not quickly. That much light pressure, while impressive, wouldn't be able to deflect accelerated streams of antimatter from two supers.
The particle accelerators on the Scorcher have enough power to crack the outer crust of a planet.

The idea of using one of the wormhole gates could provide enough matter to intercept the antimatter beams, though you'd be better served to just kill the Scorchers with it before they could fire.

>>2415461
This makes me sad. I thought I was a good boi and had done good.

>>2415510
Well we could always use those repulsers to push the Scorcher around later when the Alliance ever comes around to retaking the sphere. I'd imagine being pushed while trying to fire makes it difficult to get an accurate target lock.

>>2415610
Sorry.

>>2415657
Potentially could be done.

You're currently at a location with info on the repulsor and defense grid systems. If you're thinking of weaponizing them you might be able to use the map projectors to ensure you have all the relevant data. This will mean clearing some of the may data.

You have 3 maps currently and each can hold the complete data on 2 of the items each. Which if any did you want to collect the data on, and will you be reserving one map?

exterior repulsors
defense grid
e-beam weapons
wormholes
gravity focusing
Other builder installations

>>2415749
>will you be reserving one map
Yes.

Can we set them up so they'll delete the data if somebody aside from the people on our team try to access them? We can't risk them getting captured by the commandos.

>Items
wormholes
exterior repulsors
Other builder installations
Parts of the sphere map relevant to this area

>>2415774
>Can we set them up so they'll delete the data if somebody aside from the people on our team try to access them? We can't risk them getting captured by the commandos.
Probably a good idea, and yes.


Captcha, stop breaking please.

>>2415749
This is stuff that isnt leaving the sphere anyways right? We already agreed with Uller that these maos cannot leave the spherr. I would imagine that also applies to this info as well. That said...

>wormholes
>gravity focusing

Intrigue me, wormholes for using them for transportation and gravity focusing for use in terraforming and upgrading our gravity well generators.

>>2415793
>anti-theft device?
Yes please!

>>2415774
>Parts of the sphere map relevant to this area
Actually the reading room doesn't really show up on the maps. Uller assures you that there are other reading rooms, with markers that show their locations.

>>2415802
>This is stuff that isnt leaving the sphere anyways right?
Correct.
It would be difficult for the other caretakers to claim ignorance of the systems you hope to use as weapons if you have the data in your hand.

>>2415830
Oh, then... hrm gotta change my vote then.

>e-beams
>defense grid

>>2415749
Gravity
Wormholes
E-beams

>e-beam weapons
>wormholes
>gravity focusing

It takes a few days more to collect all of the data but with luck it will be worth it. Hopefully you'll be able to make some convincing arguments to the other caretakers about potential defenses once this is all over. The remaining space is used to hold key map data to help with crossing the previous chamber once out of the reading room.

You've been in here a week and a half. It's hard to believe that outside almost no time will have passed for anyone else. Seconds at most. However long it takes for the lift doors to open and get out really.

Any last minute checks before you resume your journey?

>>2416009

Just quick check of our gear, make sure it is all there and is good to go. As well as having an idea of where our destination is, so we have fewer distractions.

>>2416009
I can't think of anything now but we'll probably come up with a bunch more questions after we leave. Is there any reason not to get information on other builder installations?

Can we carve a 'S.R. was here' into one of the pillars or something?

>>2416009
I still want to see if there's anything on other installations. Even if we have to write down the coordinates on a piece of paper. Svidur said he had been looking for them.

>>2416044
>I still want to see if there's anything on other installations. Even if we have to write down the coordinates on a piece of paper. Svidur said he had been looking for them.
>>2416039
>Is there any reason not to get information on other builder installations?
I suppose not.

Go for it?

>>2416056
>Go for it?
[x] Yes
At least we might be able to find Ran and Uller a new home if they get exiled.

Or that this whole section of space is some kind of universe sized dyson sphere biological life terrarium.

>>2416056
>Go for it?
Sure. I'm sure a much cooler galaxy got a preservation cube. Maybe even a dyson hexagon.

>>2416095
Or a d20 shaped life preservation?

>>2416105
Nah, that's just silly anon.

Deciding that you'll probably never get a chance at this the group tries to find information on other installations. This proves to be difficult. The location that supposedly has the info doesn't seem to have anything like what you're looking for at first.
Checking other pillars farther out from that site you find increasingly incomplete data. It is there though.

Lacking the considerable amounts of paper needed to compile the fragmented data, the remains of the second map have to be done away with to make room in memory. It does allow you to get some key bits and pieces.
Valeri never wants to look at a pictogram again after all this. Eldal remains indifferent.

"What have we got?"
"One location and some information on a planetary installation."

It's actually inside what should be current enemy territory, but Uller doubts very much they have access to it. It may be sealed and buried beneath the surface of the planet.

"We could reach that in three, maybe four weeks with a fast enough ship." you guess, looking over the coordinate data. Provided you could get the required navigation data to operate in enemy territory.

By the looks of things there are other facilities but the rest of the data is too fragmented to piece together. No way of recovering it from here.

"That didn't take so long."
"Four days." your bodyguard points out.
"And if it was four weeks it still would have been worth it." you reply.

Traversing to the entrance each of you go through practice routines and prepare to set out once fully rested.

"Ready for a sprint to the finish?" asks Eldal as you board the lift.

>Do you want to change your loadout at all?
At present the shield can get in the way of using your left arm slot and the Lightning artifact a bit. You're more used to lightning artifact but it has a shorter effective range due to spreading out more.

>>2416194
Rather have it and not need it, instead of the alternative of plasma hole in the chest. And if the shield proves to cumbersome we can ditch it and fight on without it.

>>2416194
Our current loadout seems fine to be honest. Unless some of our team think a different setup would make more sense in the close quarters of this area.

>>2416194
I'd love to try out the Amplifier at some point but I'm quite happy with our current loadout.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qY5TXIS2vi4 [ C&C3 - Havoc ]

Unwilling to make any changes to your gear you get set and Uller hits the button. Like before the lift descends, gravity shifts and you're ascending again. As soon as the doors are clear enough Eldal leaps through, to help clear the way. You and Valeri are soon after with the Caretaker bringing up the rear.

Eldal wasn't kidding about this being the sprint to the finish. Each of you push, trying to cross the distance as quickly as possible. You're back to minutes here being hours outside. The Krath is using the extra bursts of speed to occasionally check the tower pillars, turning one to be sure they light up the correct path, then disabling it again.

"You're lighting as few as possible I hope?" asks Uller.

"Yes!" Eldal shouts back.

"Good. I've become worried about what efforts the neeran fleet will take to breach some of these towers if or when they learn of their locations. If we activate too many or for too long it could still endanger parts of the network."

"So even if we beat these guys we may still lose in the long run?"

"Potentially? Yes!"

"Great." you mutter.

It's easy to lose track of time in this place, as if the issue of time wasn't bad enough here. The same with direction. If not for checking the pillars you'd probably have become lost several times now. That's even with the bright blue light in the distance for reference.

Some of the switches merge with multiple sets as you draw closer to the center. Looking up from one of these you spot lines of light off to the left. Its difficult to make out through the swirling darkness surrounding the center but you're certain of it. Slowing you pull out a set of binoculars and zoom in. Sure enough another line lights up, this one closer.

"There they are!"

[ ] Keep moving
[ ] Put fire down range

>>2416515
Keep moving. I'd prefer to link up with the rest of our group before engaging 5 neeran commandos in combat.

>>2416515
>[x] Keep moving
These commandos get the sword, no need to give away our position yet.

"Keep moving!"

No time to waste putting fire into them from this range. You cant even see them properly and all it would do is warn them of your presence.

Back at full pace you as Eldal if he can see any signs of the rest of your team. He asks for the binoculars and you hand them over. The next time he sprints ahead he takes a minute to look for signs of the pillars being deactivated. Sure enough when you catch up he has spotted signs that at least some of the others have begun to deactivate them.

That's one piece of good news.

Non-linear bullshit aside, when you first entered this place it seemed like it was spherical. Maybe you were wrong, it may look like a sphere but the closer you get to the point of light the closer it seems to get to the horizon, or the floor. Maybe it still is a torus?

Things dont feel right.
"How long have we been going?"
"Not that long." Valeri is quick to answer, checking a watch.

Looking up, the light source seems to pulse somewhat at a fairly regular rhythm. The occasional one pulses more brightly than the others. Soon though you can feel the floor beginning to shake with the brighter pulses.

"What's happening?"

"The Caretakers must be trying to find a way to repel the attackers. Or buying time."

You're about to ask how when a gravity shift nearly knocks you off your feet.
Oh, that's how.

Have work tomorrow, will try to resume tomorrow night.

>When the time dilation hits the QM.

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For a moment after you regain your footing it feels almost as if the surface is now slanted slightly down hill. Fortunately it improves to the point of nearly being equal to what it was earlier.

"Gravity at the center is increasing." Uller warns.

"Possible that the Caretakers are trying to help us get there first?" Eldal asks hopefully.

"It will also increase time dilation closer to the center."

"Should we stop?" you ask.

Based on where the lines were lit up before gravity started going even more screwy the enemy were approaching 30-45 degrees off to the left of your group.

"As we get closer to the center the effects and dilation will worsen. A course change might be prudent."

How do you want your team to approach or intercept?

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>>2419263
Oh, I know this one.

Follow a brachistochrone trajectory towards the center. It's mathematically the quickest way.

>>2419306
You want Sonia's team to follow the blue line?

>>2419362
Hell yeah.

>>2419362
Actually no, I'm overthinking this. If the rings represent increasing areas of time dilation, I think the shortest route through them would be the quickest?

Unless we want to go for an intercept on the group? I feel like getting into an area with more cover would be better for when we want to engage them, I bet those hand-held E-beams chew up even our super-armor.

>>2419379
I had written up an attempt to figure out how this would have worked but all I did was end up confusing myself.
Sorry if my brain is a little fried from too much direct sunlight today.

>>2419428
>If the rings represent increasing areas of time dilation
They do act as a rough indicator. Closer to center = more time dilation.

>Unless we want to go for an intercept on the group?
That is possibility. Trying to get to the center first vs trying to get into position to kill the other guys. Plus variations thereof.

>I feel like getting into an area with more cover would be better for when we want to engage them
Unfortunately there is very little to work with on that front. The only available cover is what you've brought with you. Such as shields.

>I bet those hand-held E-beams chew up even our super-armor.
In theory the shield should be able to resist them and by extension so should your armor. However the design of your armor hasn't exactly been tested before you put it on. It is essentially a prototype.

>>2419428
Resuming tomorrow. We'll see if anyone else either agrees with this or wants to try something different.

>>2419853
Would it be possible to contact the enemy team? Racing them to the control center seems like a gigantic waste of time given the nature of the "defense" system.

If they're not interested in a sensible solution, we should try to intercept asap. Is it possible to coordinate with the other half of our team?

>>2420191
>contact the enemy team
>diplomacy with Neeran commandos

>>2420270
Maybe they ran out of genocidal assholes for their commando units? It's been a couple of years.

>>2420191
>Would it be possible to contact the enemy team?
I'm going to say it's possible. Your radios, though primitive, should be picked up by their communicators. The signal may be a bit distorted but it should get through.

>If they're not interested in a sensible solution, we should try to intercept asap. Is it possible to coordinate with the other half of our team?
Yes. The others should be farther behind the enemy, and as the gravitational effects increase should begin to catch up, though that still might take awhile.

Try to contact them? Y/N?
If yes what say?

>>2420296
>N

>>2420296
>Try to contact them? Y/N?
I'm undecided. I'd like to ask Uller what he thinks about the idea and if he has some idea what might convince them to leave this place. Free passage to the surface, maybe?

>>2420309
"Uller what you think about the idea of warning them about the stasis system?"
"It is certain they do not know what the defense system actually does, but they may not care. They are likely just here to unlock the towers to allow other forces to enter the Polar installation."

"Any idea what might convince them to leave this place? Free passage to the surface, maybe?"
"Uncertain. The other Caretakers will not permit them to leave with what they've learned or already know about this place. We could offer them a way out as you suggested.
Still, they would be reluctant as long as their goal is within reach."

"We could bluff them into thinking opening their connection to the pole will activate the defense system." suggests Eldal.

"Wont they be able to tell we're lying?" you ask.
"Not over the communicator, or I could prevent them from finding out when talking in person."

[ ] Beat them to the center
[ ] Try to intercept earlier
[ ] Communicate; Offer/Bluff

>>2420347
>[x] Try to intercept earlier

>>2420347
Could they actually do damage if we let them reach the center but disable all the energy towers they managed to unlock? I'd prefer not to waste time trying to get to the center.

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>>2420351
The only real damage the enemy team itself could do here is open the door for the Empire's forces elsewhere on the sphere.
As long as your other team keeps shutting down the rest of the tower switches that is.

>>2420350
Since we've got not other votes, where/how do you want to intercept them?
>>2419263

>>2420384
Let's try to go for the intercept.

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>>2420448
Stay parallel to them until the teams are closer?
Loop farther out to avoid the worst time dilation effects, then catch up?

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>>2420455
Would this make any difference?

>>2420455
[x] Loop

>>2420462
>Would this make any difference?
I calculated it all out. The answer is use Sonia's math skills to figure that out.

Uller thinks dilation effects will double with each ring.

>>2420495
It should allow us to Intercept them roughly halfway through ring 3, while going around should allow us to enter ring three when they're halfway through. It's all guesswork, I'm on mobile.

If the gravity quakes are worse closer to the center we might catch up faster on a different route, though.

>>2420466
1 for loop.
>>2420462
>>2420516
Follow the orange zigzag approach?

>>2420533
Zig zag posts are both me. Going to vote for that.

>>2420564
Oh, alright.
Anyone else then?

SURVEY!

surveymonkey com/r/ VSTTY88

Survey links are up on the twitter and wiki.

>>2420533
I'll back the zig-zag.

What's the worst that could happen.

We had a grand total of 4 votes on the Survey. Guess what? Another tie.

>>2422654
forgot to vote earlier, check again

>>2422654
Roll a d2 to decide?

>>2422664
Well that makes for the bare minimum I guess.

We're using the zig zag route!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJ0K_8Atomw [ C&C3 - Radiation Alert ]

You lay out the plan to work your way over toward the enemy team with the occasional direction change out to the side. It should give you an advantage over heading straight in and suffering dilation effects sooner.

While the others are uncertain Uller shouts that there's no time to argue about it.
"We can't afford to waste even seconds. Hurry!"

Continuing to run, the four of you change course once you're a bit closer, beginning the first of the planned zigs. Uller begins to lag behind but urges you to keep going.
"I will catch up! If only because I have more time to do so being farther away."

Light distortions from the gravity waves start to become visible the closer you get. If there were time to stop and properly think this through it would probably be a lot scarier. Eldal manages to figure out how to predict some of the shockwaves giving you all time to either brace yourself, or use the suit's extra strength to go airborne long enough to avoid being thrown off your feet. Uller continues to lag behind a bit but still urges you forward.

Closing in on the path of the enemy team you finally spot the glowing lines of the transit network. It's not that far away. Looking ahead on the path you make out what has to be the enemy team. They're not too far ahead.

"We're within rifle range. Attack now before they spot us?" Valeri asks you.

[ ] Open fire with Rifles
[ ] Wait until we're closer
[ ] Close rapidly [Use suit power]

>>2422772
>rifles
The sooner we engage them, the sooner the rest of our team can catch up.

>>2422772

>[ ] Open fire with Rifles

>>2422772
>[ ] Open fire with Rifles

>>2422795
>>2422804
>>2422806
All the guns. Writing.

>>2422772
You guys think we'll have enough suit power to chop a commando in half with the sword?

>>2422889

We will soon test that out.

>>2422889
Sonia should establish herself as alpha neeran. The rest of the unit will fall in line immediately once she has established dominance and we'll end up with our own group of neeran commandos.

>>2422772
>I will catch up!

Have we found the Neeran weakness? Zig-zag lines? Is this why all their ships are just giant eggs?

"Open fire!"

You and Valeri shoulder your weapons and open up, firing on semi-auto. Eldal meanwhile uses one of the lasers. You dont see any sign of an enemy response to the attack until you empty the magazine. One of the trailing Neeran begins to collapse in slow motion, struck down by fire from you and Valeri. Two others turn and raise shields or deflect the incoming fire.

The Command team takes a surprisingly long time to return fire. It's easy to spot the glow of a plasma weapon discharging and you dive to the side. The beam takes twice as long as usual to cross the distance, seeming to pick up speed as passes by. It seems that the time dilation is on your side attacking from here.

"This would have sucked if we'd run parallel to them." Valeri comments.
"Why's that? Wait, never mind."
You figured it out. It would have been like long range starship combat without the aid of faster than light sensors.

Emptying a second magazine you note there are only two left and both Neeran at the back are focusing on deflecting the incoming projectiles. The remaining two are rushing ahead. Laser rifles dont seem to have enough punch against full fledged commandos much to Eldal's annoyance.

Glancing back you see Uller has caught up. By the time you turn your eyes front again arcs of lighting are beginning to spread out from the Enemies that have gone turtle. You should be beyond the weapon's effective range but it's going to be a pain to deal with them as they are.


"Suggestions?"

Valeri rolls to the side of a plasma shot, taking cover behind his shield.
"You and Uller focus down one of them at a time with artifact weapons? It'll probably still take awhile to kill them."

Eldal has two ideas, neither of which you may like.
"What's the first one?"
"Sacrifice play. One of use takes the lead with a shield providing cover for the others."

Not ideal. The shields are really tough, but whoever takes the lead is certain to be injured.
"The other?"

"Mad dash. Uller covers us, we spread out and charge at our highest speed to get into close combat. That lighting artifact is a problem though."
"Yeah, they might be able to hit two of us at once." Valeri points out.

The Krath shrugs. "That's all I've got. Unless you want to try and pull that bluff you were talking about earlier?"

[ ] Focus fire
[ ] Sacrifice play
[ ] Mad dash
[ ] Communicate; Offer/Bluff
[ ] Other

>>2422904
Uller and the empire went full bloatmaxx and cardio would have killed their gainz.

>>2422906
>Communicate
We don't even need to bluff this time. Only two of them are still able to fight, they're also at a huge tactical disadvantage while we have reinforcements incoming. Offer proper treatment for their injured and their choice of being held by the caretakers, or getting a short term memory wipe and being turned over to the factions as pows.

>>2422906
Can we use our own lightning gauntlet to force their one back?

>>2422904
You heard it here first! Corners, the great enemy of the Neeran race

>>2422906
[ ] Mad dash
Got to go fast

>>2422906

I think if we try to communicate, the time dilation thing will screw up any talks until we get into the same time field as they are. Because if they are far enough away where we can just move out of the way of their plasma. Then voice will be going even slower.

Maybe a combination of pushing closer, while focusing fire on targets would be a better option.

Give someone our shields and have them be our moving wall. As the rest of us fire around them at our targets as we move closer.

>>2422906
Another idea, how many shields do we have and would it be enough to form a shield wall to smash into them? As the forward shields get more damaged/heat up, the team members behind move up and deploy whilst the damage one falls back and cools off.

>>2422942
Shouldn't the radio signal be slowed down to appropriate speeds once it is close enough to be picked up by their communicators? I guess we could slow it down and speed it up on repeat transmissions to account for any ongoing temporal weirdness.

>>2422951

No idea, I'm just guessing here. But I figure if we are able to empty an entire magazine of ammo into them before we get a response. There is some pretty big time dilation going on that will make sound which travels slower then even a bullet take longer to reach them and from them back to us.

(A 9mm goes ~2500ft/s while sound goes ~1,000ft/s, brief googling probably not accurate)

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>>2422904
Uller is fairly fast. Rufaro without her power armor has about the same run speed.
You and Valeri have suits plus enhancements, and Eldal can be almost as fast as he wants at any given moment.

>>2422933
>Can we use our own lightning gauntlet to force their one back?
Now that's an interesting idea. Aside from the exploding everything bit it's very similar to normal lighting. I wonder if the opposed fields would repel one another?
Plausible. Only one way to find out for sure.

>>2422948
>how many shields do we have
3? Sonia, Eldal Valeri.
Uller has his own odd weapon which is sort of a cross between a staff weapon and those old dueling shields.

>>2422978
>Only one way to find out for sure.
I have to vote for a lightning battle.

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>>2422942
>>2422951
>>2422974
I sort of figured that since the radio communication isn't being sent as a burst it would be compressed by the time it reached them as a result.
So you'd need to send them a slowed down message for it sound normal when they got it.

That should be how it works, right?
Shit now I'm confusing myself.

>>2422974
We're not restricted to sound though, communication via radio is possible.

>>2423007

I have no idea the math and science behind communication in time dilated places. But it is your world, bending the universe a little is allowed I believe.

>>2423009
And then an anon points out that we don't have to shout at one another.

I was under the idea we would just shout at each other. But if we're using radio and such then yeah I believe I'm just raising a rather pointless point. Ignore my post about speed and crap, sorry about the confusion.

>>2423007
Yeah, I think the radio waves would bunch up at the start of the next dilation zone. Which should mean they would receive more radio waves in a shorter amount of time than intended. So we'd have to account for that by slowing down the transmission.

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>>2423018
That's what I though, then I fell into the trap of overthinking it.

>>2423026
It probably depends on how the time dilation is applied. Never really thought about this stuff.

[1] Focus fire/slow advance
[1] Mad dash
[2] Communicate; Offer/Bluff
[1] Lighting counter

Looks like we're going to try communicating unless anyone wants to change their vote?

>What say?

>>2423074
"Commando unit, this is guardian squad 2. Most of your team has been incapacitated, you have wounded in need of medical attention and those of you still able to fight back find themselves at a severe tactical disadvantage. Your progress on the way here is already being undone by another team.

We are willing to provise favorable terms of surrender. Treatment according to your choice of either faction alliance pow regulations or caretaker law will be offered. Lay down your weapons and we will immediately provide medical assistants to the wounded and escort you out of this area."

>>2423074
"The offer is simple, keep fighting and die, or surrender now and live."

>>2423074
It might be a good idea to have Uller transmit the message. It might make them believe we're an official security team and from what I remember imperial neeran are mostly used to other neeran in positions of authority.

>>2423143
>It might be a good idea to have Uller transmit the message. It might make them believe we're an official security team and from what I remember imperial neeran are mostly used to other neeran in positions of authority.

The Caretaker is quick to agree.
"They may also be more willing to listen to me given my origins. We shall see shortly."

Uller pulls out a communicator and adjusts it to record at the appropriate speed.

"Commando unit, most of your team has been incapacitated. You have wounded in need of medical attention and those of you still able to fight back are at a severe tactical disadvantage. Your progress is already being undone by another team.

We are willing to provide favorable terms of surrender. You can be turned over to the Factions Alliance or the Caretakers. Lay down your weapons and we will provide medical assistance to the wounded.
If that's not simple enough; keep fighting and die, or surrender now and live."

You catch Uller say something about the need for a short message but doesn't bother to clarify. He records a message of his own, switching to a Neeran dialect your Sphere expedition translators cant quickly identify. With that done he sets the audio to play back at a slower speed and transmits it using your radio.

"What did you tell them?" you ask.
"I just insulted you. Don't take it personally."
"What? Why would you do that?"
"Because your message played first. I implied a healthy lack of respect for the younger races."

You try but fail to come up with some way of expressing your displeasure.

Watching closely the two hunkered down Neeran listen to the message. It's enough to get them to cease fire, and they're clearly discussing their options. After a minute or so of their time you get a response. Their only terms are that they not surrender to the Hunted.
"Who?"
"They're worried one of you is the one who killed Girisha's offspring. That one isn't even on the sphere."

Uller quickly sends a response and they reply in kind. After decompressing the return message it looks like the two acting as rear guard have agreed to surrender. Both throw down their weapons, plasma guns bursting into flames from a self destruct setting. Any artifacts they've picked up along the way are set aside.

The four of you charge forward, shields and weapons ready for a trick. As you close in both of them raise their hands in surrender. One laughs saying you'll need a lot of luck to catch the remaining two.

Ran and most of the other team should be here shortly. Did you want to leave the two Neeran disarmed, have one of your team watch them, or go back on your word and execute them?

[ ] Leave disarmed
[ ] Someone watch them (who?)
[ ] Execute

>>2423269

STUN GRE... oh wait... fuck we don't have any...

Well this will be interesting. How many Neeran are left chasing the center now that these two surrendered?

>>2423280
There were 5. 1 looks quite dead, 2 have surrendered.

2 left.

>>2423269
>>2423282

Well if we want to maintain the illusion that Uller is in charge. We need him to come to the center. So, I say, us and Uller go. While Eldal and Valeri watch over them. Making sure to put Neeran Commando rated bindings on the captives to wait for Ran and the follow up team to back them up.

Once the other team joins up. Have our body guards come back us up. If we've not resolved the issue by the time the other team returns.

Or at least that is one idea.

>>2423269
Didn't we bring stasis fields? Or could Eldal temporarily disable the nerves controlling the neerans' extremities?

>>2423301
>Didn't we bring stasis fields? Or could Eldal temporarily disable the nerves controlling the neerans' extremities?
Yes you did! You, Valeri and Uller each have one.

Use them?

>Or could Eldal temporarily disable the nerves controlling the neerans' extremities?
Now there's an idea. I think he could probably do this.

>>2423269
>[x] Execute

>>2423310

>Stasis Fields, use?
YES! That completely makes my previous post pointless, but I like this idea better. Put them in stasis and then lets head after the last two Neeran.

>>2423269
>>2423310
Does Ty Lee count as a magical girl?
Put the dead one in stasis if Uller thinks he can be salvaged with sphere technology. Have Eldal disable the other two.
Unless Neeran die without water within a couple of hours or something equally unpleasant before the other team would arrive.

>>2423327
>Put the dead one in stasis if Uller thinks he can be salvaged with sphere technology.
They're quite dead.

>Unless Neeran die without water within a couple of hours
That seems unlikely.

Just need a tie breaker.

[1] Execute
[1] Stasis
[1] Disable

>>2423358
I'll switch to stasis, it's still preferable to going back on our word.

I'm just a bit worried we'll need the stasis units after our encounter with the remaining two. The other friendly team has some as well?

>>2423358
I fell asleep. Sorry.
Stasis mofo! Now I return to my sweet dreams of despair

>>2423358
>they're quite dead
That doesn't mean too much at this tech level.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MAtwGwSQ74 [ Gundam Unicorn - MOBILE ARMOR ]

"Both of you, down on the ground! We'll put them in stasis."

You and Uller each use one of the spare medical stasis field generators you picked up earlier. That should keep both of the prisoners from causing trouble. With that done the rest of you resume your run.

In the time that took the rest of the unit has shut down most of the other transit system connections and are beginning to catch up. You can almost make them out in the distance. It's hard to tell how far away they really are though, especially with the different rate of time.

Up ahead you can see the other two neeran. They're clearly running, taking care to keep their makeshift shields either behind them, or on their back to prevent you from getting an easy hit in. Eldal pings them with a few last laser shots to keep their heads down before he runs out of ammo.
Their shields must be made of builder material taken from the shuttle or drones because your rifles can't really penetrate them at this range.

You start to consider the other weapons.
"Is there any danger of us breaking things with the artifact weapons here?"
"No." Uller replies a little too quickly.

Is he lying to you?
"Really?"
"...possibly. Don't give it consideration."

Ahead one of the commandos turns briefly and fires a sustained burst with a plasma weapon, sweeping the area. You're forced to duck down behind your shield for cover, as are the others. Things get a little hot but your shields protect you from the worst of it. Uller doesn't even stop, using his staff to simply cut through it.

"Why didn't they do that earlier?"
"It used all their ammo. They're down to whatever artifacts they brought with them."
That's a good reason you guess.

"Last mag!" you warn, stowing your rifle.
"I'm down to specialist rounds only." Valeri reports.
"What's left?"
"Four explosive, and a fusion round for my launcher."
"Y- what? Shoot them with it!"
"There wasn't time to test it."

"I could attempt to keep them from the next switch with heavy weapons fire." Uller offers, hefting his shield/staff combo. "But I would need to stop to use it."

[ ] Modified 20mm Fusion grenade round [Radiation warning]
[ ] Burst of speed, force them into close combat [Max suit power]
[ ] Uller provides covering fire

>>2423549
>[x] Burst of speed, force them into close combat [Max suit power]

>>2423549
>[ ] Burst of speed, force them into close combat [Max suit power]

>>2423549
>Eldal, grab my armor!
>modified [ ] Burst of speed, force them into close combat [Max suit power]
Can we drag Eldal so help us not to flail around aimlessly at max power?

>>2423570
>Eldal, grab my armor!
He can probably match your speed for a bit.

>Can we drag Eldal so help us not to flail around aimlessly at max power?
Sorry, meant max safe setting.

I want to find out from Uller some good Neeran insults.

Still alive. Post soon™

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iRZ_itT50l4 [ Bourne Ultimatum - Tangiers ]

You begin to shed any equipment that isn't immediately useful in combat and yell at the others to run faster. Once Valeri has likewise dropped some gear he break into a sprint as well. You mentally command the power module to open up to the highest levels you think you can handle. Each step becomes more like a leap. It's a little worrying that you might leave the others behind.

A quick check shows that Valeri is keeping up, although only barely. Eldal has taken on a rather nightmarish appearance, his body elongating and limbs looking more blade like with each step. Even Uller is picking up speed despite his bulk. Letting out bellowing roar he slowly but steadily begins to accelerate much like a juggernaut.

Now closing the distance you raise your right arm and begin to fire off shots with the plasma artifact. Between that and a couple explosive rounds Valeri throws their way, it certainly gets their attention. Both Neeran draw their shields and turn to face you.

If you wanted them to stop, mission accomplished.

As they begin to throw out return fire the three of you go evasive, effectively sidestepping plasma weapon shots. Others you have to block with the shield of course but by then you're getting into really close range.
Drawing your sword you leap over the better equipped of the two Commandos while Eldal scythes in from the flank. You land in the perfect position to stab them in the back. If he turns enough to stop you it should provide Eldal an opening.

Checkmate.

Or that's how you would have liked it to go. Instead when you land the Neeran drops, leg extended outward it connects with your groin. The hit arrests your momentum long enough for their shield to swing round and swat you out of the air. At the same time they extend their staff outwards and, as they turn with the shield strike, manages to club Eldal rather solidly as well.

Initially tumbling in a heap you quickly heave yourself back up then get to work forcing air into your lungs. That hurt a whole lot more than you care to admit right now. No time for petty things like pain though when there's a fight to rejoin.

Valeri and the other Neeran are a blur of limbs and weapons. Your original target is trying to split their attention between keeping Eldal at bay and directing fire towards Uller.

Your orders?
[ ] Plasma
[ ] Lighting
[ ] Sword
[ ] Amplifier

>>2423783
>[x] Sword
Seems like the best weapon for a brawl when friendlies are nearby.

Scene appropriate battle music also welcome.

>>2423783
>[x] Sword
>[x] Amplifier

>>2423799
>[x] Amplifier
Suit or sword?

>>2423808
Amplify the sword to surprise them.

>>2423790
>>2423799
Seems we're going with the sword, now for the
>Your orders?
part of that post.

Help Valeri or Eldal?

>>2423839
The guy fighting Eldal and Valeri seems the easier target right now. Getting involved in the melee combat Valeri is involved in seems pretty risky right now.

>>2423839
See if we can help Valeri. If they're focused on each other we could try to come up behind whilst they're distracted or launch our self up and come down on top of them.

Just waiting for a tie breaker.

What if the Commandos are reading our mind and responding to our plans before we've even acted upon them? I hope Uller can shield us.

>>2423910
>What if the Commandos are reading our mind and responding to our plans before we've even acted upon them?
Then I'd say it would be a hard fight.

>>2423910
What if Uller is on their side? To speed things up, I'll change my vote to Valeri.

>>2423951
>What if Uller is on their side?
Then you probably would not have walked off that fabricator back in the armory.

>>2423985
They're also the race that started the biggest space war in the history of everybody involved because they want to harvest their distant relatives' organs. I don't expect these guys to come up with reasonable plans.

>>2424004
>biggest space war
I dunno man, this is a 'pretty big' war, but some of the faction wars stuff is nuts.

I mean, imagine if the Factions told the Kavarians to go nuts. That would upgrade the situation I bet.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Q2oExZFwtE [ 2SFH - Am I Not Human ]

Adjusting the grip on your sword you look at your options, help Valeri or Eldal. Neither of their opponent are ones you'd prefer to tangle with but that's not a luxury you can afford.

Witht he simple expediency of Valeri being closer you dive back into the fight, shield leading the way. Worried that these guys may be reading your mind you consider as many places to strike as possible. Easily done given the difficulty you have deciding what to do some days.

The Commando pulls back slightly allowing them to engage you and Valeri simultaneously. The three of you trade, dodge and deflect blows that might have killed lesser equipped soldiers. Even with the armor and enhancements you're slowly racking up minor injuries. Fortunately so is the commando.

Eventually they try to get some breathing room by dropping down and unleashing a pulse of kinetic energy in all directions. Even using your sword to absorb some of the blast isn't enough to entirely protect you, forcing both of you back a few steps. It buys enough time for them to switch their staff weapon to plasma mode and draw an e-beam artifact with the other hand. They fire the weapons at you and Valeri respectively.

Sword and shield catch the worst of the stream of plasma. Some of it hits your greaves and the top of the helmet. The force of the blast would have staggered you normally but the extra suit power allows you to press on, swatting the staff weapon aside with a sword swing. Your shield intercepts a blow attempting to hammer you down into the floor and buys enough of an opening to stab them in the abdomen. Releasing the energy stored in the weapon is enough to get through their hardened skin and drive deep into your enemy's guts.

In a blur two enormous hands latch onto your shield and right arm, trying to tear you free of your weapon. Or limbs from their sockets, you doubt they're picky at this point. From the screaming pain in your limbs your arm... oh, no there it goes. The biosynthetic limb that replaced your cybernetic right arm proves to be the weak link as the elbow joint gives out and rips off.

It's at this point that two explosive rounds from Valeri's rifle connect with the Commando's upper chest and head. Despite dropping like a rock they're amazingly not dead. In seconds the giant starts to shake off the injury despite now missing an eye and with a crater centimeters from vital organs.

>Cont.

Detaching the shield, you roll to your feet before they do. Valeri charges in, armor looking like half of it has been burned away. He grabs your sword, ripping it free of the Commando who lashes out, sending Valeri flying with a kinetic burst. You use the opening to draw your backup mono blade, stabbing it through the hole in its chest. This is followed by a point blank lightning gauntlet attack.

Electricity rips through the commando's body and more importantly their compromised vital organs. Nearly blinded by the light show, you're thrown off by the body's violent spasming. By the time you right yourself again and blink away the worst of the after effects Valeri has reached you.

"Borrowing your rifle!" your bodyguard informs you, dropping the sword at your feet.

One neeran down, you look in time to see Uller locked in close combat with the other. Eldal is alive but in terrible shape, hurriedly trying to reattach severed limbs. It would be nice if yours went back on that easy.

Valeri empties the last magazine on your rifle in an attempt to distract the remaining enemy. With it empty he hurls the gun at them for good measure. Uller is not going to last long by himself. Fortunately your sword still has charge left in it from when Valeri was struck.

[ ] Sword, switch converter for amplifier artifact
[ ] Lighting gauntlet
[ ] Help Eldal get back into the fight
[ ] Other

>>2424197
>[x] Sword, switch converter for amplifier artifact
Amplify for a big finish.

>>2424197

Lightning/ Sword combo. Get in close stab with sword and use it to channel lightning right into the Neeran.

>>2424206
>>2424208
Sword + amplifer, use the gauntlet if more of a kick is needed?

>>2424227
yes

>>2424227
Support.

test post

Before charging in again you're faced with the old problem of impaired limb logistics. Your damaged lower arm is hanging uselessly. Hopefully it wont be come an issue as there isn't time to deal with it. Holding the sword steady with your knees you swap out the converter with the amplifier.
It would sure be nice if the fight was over by the time you had this finished. No such luck.

Fortunately your allies are still on their feet. Uller is putting up a tremendous fight but is slowly but steadily losing. Eldal has most of his limbs back on and is going through his small medkit. That's probably a good thing. He hasn't called for help.

Charging back into the fight you're faced with your limited practice using the sword left handed. Then again how hard could a fight to the death be? The Commando has been slowly but steadily backing their way towards the next switch. Is that the last one? It's hard to tell due to the nearby light source. Ultimately it doesn't matter if it's the first or last, you move to block their path.

When the commando get's within weapons range they're forced to split their attention three ways. Predictably their response is a kinetic blast. Unfortunately for you with the sword artifacts switched out you have no way of safely absorbing that energy with the sword.
Rather than find out what would happen of you amplified the incoming strike you instead have to bear the brunt of it the old fashioned way, the force of it driving you backwards.

This guy seems to be a master of counterattacks, even more than the other one. There are ways around that. You move in and ready yourself, waiting for an opening, or for them to attack first. It's an agonizing few moments as Uller and Valeri take on more injuries.

Seeing an opening you move in as close as you dare but don't attack, waiting for the inevitable strike. When it doesn't come you ready your suit and nod to Valeri. He pushes hard, striking at the head and eyes. You move in at the same time. If this bastard doesn't swing at you you'll be seeing how much damage power armored elbows do. Uller pushes hard as well, trying to keep your opponent from attempting another kinetic blast.

Instead he lashes out at the three of you simultaneously. You trigger your suit to unleash a powerful low swing into the oncoming limb. As it connects you mentally activate the amplifier artifact, dumping everything from the capacity bank into it. There's a faint glow from the sword hilt and the weapon itself seems to behave oddly in the chamber's strange lighting.

>cont.

Your sword carves through their leg like a HF-blade through paper. Swinging up and to the side you cut a deep groove across their back. The light from your weapon is quickly extinguished and a follow up attempt to stab them in the back with it fails to penetrate.

Uller is quick to take advantage, driving your opponent to the floor. You have to dive out of the way to avoid being pinned beneath them. Eldal then Valeri each try to tackle the Commando's weapons and shields out of their hands. The Krath begins to change form more drastically than you've seen before, teeth, claws, needles and bone stab at the limb he's attacking. He even tries to boil away part of their protection with acid.

Jabbing a hand into their rapidly closing leg wound you let loose with the lightning once more. That seems to halt or undo their localised attempts at healing providing a larger opening to stab your sword in. A kinetic attack against you only serves to worsen their wounds.
Uller is badly wounded but he seems determined to crush the life out of their rival regardless.

At length the enemy eventually begins to yell out in pain end in a few words in Neeran.

"What was that?" you ask, your translator apparently damaged.

"I YIELD!"

Shit, really?

[ ] Fucking kill him
[ ] Talk Uller down

>>2424431
>[x] Fucking kill him

>>2424431

I have no idea if this is Caretaker thought process but...

If Uller gets a kill. It will mean a confirmed kill against an Empire Neeran commando who yeilded. Which when the other Caretakers learn of this, Uller will face either expulsion or severe punishment from the Caretakers.

If we kill the commando, we would be violating Alliance laws/ rules about POW's. Even if he is an Empire Neeran.

I think, we should try and talk Uller down. He is already in trouble for helping us get this far. He was granted asylum here in the sphere by the Caretakers when he left the Empire. And they already believe he is compromised due to the war. Him killing the Commando who has said they yield will mean he is fully compromised and can no longer stay here.

Where as if he doesn't kill the commando, but merely... disables them. We do have one last stasis with us right? He will be punished but still be allowed to remain in the sphere.

I mean... I would like to have Uller with us in our future travels. But I want him to know, if he does this, kills him. There is a chance the Caretakers will no longer house him. But if he disables the commando. Like say... injures their arms so they cannot be used. We put the bastard in stasis. And wait for the other Caretakers to come pick us up.

>>2424445
>We do have one last stasis with us right?
You have 1 left.

>>2424452

Then talk Uller into disabling the commando and we put the bastard in stasis.

As it's getting kinda late I'll pick up tomorrow and see which more people favour.

Amplifier was cool.

>>2424431
>[ ] Talk Uller down
Prisoner might be worth more to us alive. I mean Eldal can't steal his mind if he is dead.