Welcome to The Kushana Initiative, a play-by-council game. As I play, I'll be posting regular reports and leaving the direction of the game up to those who have chosen to join the council. The planning topic for all discussion leading up to this game and continuing out-of-character discussion can be found here: Play by committee? (Kushana Initiative Planning and Discussion)
Of particular interest is the post detailing the back story for the whole game: Back Story
A summary of gameplay:
- Regular council sessions to take place every game quarter. I'll be posting each quarterly report and any pertinent information, including the UP vote every year, at which time the council will decide the course of action. Essentially, I'll be playing in 12 turn blocks and coming back for direction.
- Between sessions councilors are free to request additional info and entertain any discussion. This includes calling votes and modifying directions.
- The council is comprised of those who took part in the planning discussion. Others may request to join the council, but please read the background material and post a request before joining in. Requests to join should be posted in the planning and discussion thread linked above.
- This topic is for quarterly reports and in-character discussion only. Off topic and out-of-character discussion should be posted in the planning and discussion thread.
The Current Council:
- qrtxian
- NikolaiOmega
- noctilucus
- Talonschild
Inactive Councilors
- LordCarlos
- TMS2224
- -__- (May be addressed as SarcFa)
- Mambaman
Rules of Voting:
1) The ballot should list the issues and have a place for councilors to sign either FOR or AGAINST a measure. (the council or balloteer can decide the exact terms)
2) Councilors should copy the ballot from the last person who voted and add their signatures. No need to rewrite the ballot and no chance for it to be changed in transcription.
3) Make your arguments in a separate space. Don't break up the ballot with comments after each item.
4) Once a vote is cast, it is cast. No changing votes or editing the ballot. Listen to arguments before voting and consider your decisions wisely.
5) To get an issue on the ballot, it should be proposed and seconded. The exact wording/nature of the issue should then be established.
6) Amendments/Addenda - I see these as separate sub-issues. Maybe list them under the main issue and vote separately?
Galaxy Conditions:
Our Competition:
A good mix of opponents. I purposely left out the Terrans and Altarians. Not only am I kinda sick of them, but they would mess up the story. I see the Tolmekians as more neutral, so theres 3 good, 3 evil, and 2 other neutrals. Also note the difficulty - the AI has a 20% economics bonus. Not only that, but I customized each opponent and made sensible ability and politics choices rather than let the computer randomize it. I expect some stiff competition.
Custom Race - The Kushana Initiative:
You'll see that I swapped the PQ bonus for 20% morale. Given the conditions, I want our people happy and making us money! I also did my best to spice up the ships, but that's pretty much it.
That should be it for the start. Now to get into it!
Esteemed council,
First of all I would like to congratulate the Commander and our military as a whole with the results they have achieved thus far, they are truly impressive!
I too am delighted to see the excellent state our economy is in but would like us to proceed carefully, we should not allow our expenditure to get out of hand, causing us to plunge into debt the moment the economic boom wears off.
With regards to research I agree we should be able to afford neutrality learning centers; stronger offensive weapons looks like a logical next choice together with robust hull. And perhaps mass drivers, should the need arise to take extreme measures during planetary invasions.
Yours sincerely,
Councilor Noctilucus
So let me see if I can sum this Foreign Ministry stuff up:
And that's everybody!
What say that, after the Yor War (hey, that's, like, the world's shortest poem!) is over, we try and shorten our border by going after the Drath?
This also seems a good time to discuss what kind of victory we're shooting for. Not necessarily vote on, but debate. Or mention. Or we could ignore it and just follow our influence/conquest victory path.
The Drath are militarily superior (although possibly not by much), and possess the ability to manipulate other civilizations against us. I believe they are also our trading partners. A war against them would be quite ill-advised.
Starbase Fortification technology seems useful, and should be prioritized following research on Alliances and Extreme Miniaturization. As far as Alliances go, I have two questions: have we developed "close" relations with any other civilization? And does any other civilization currently possess the capability to develop alliances themselves?
That's almost everybody. The Iconians and Drath are warring, as well. We had also forgotten about the long running war between the Drengin and Torians. We don't have many means to monitor the far north, but Torian movement toward the Drengin could be another factor in the slow pace of the Torian-Thalan conflict.
Also, since we're discussing relations, here's a look at our standing with the various powers. We believe our standing with the Torians actually dropped a bit after the bump from our support to them. Others are more or less impressed with us for various reason.
We agree that the time is at hand to discuss long term strategy. Whether it comes down to something so formal as a vote is one thing, but an airing of the council's views in that regard is crucial to our future planning.
G'Norlisk will prepare the ballot.
In light of my above remarks, I'm interested to note that we are "Close" with both of the Drath's nemeses, though any conflict with them is not an issue to be discussed at present.
Unless there are any further remarks, I agree it's time for the ballot.
***RESUME TRANSMISSION - SECURITY LEVEL ALPHA***
G'Norlisk:
This session's ballot has an exception to the usual research format. Ld Cmdr Mekoides requested that we add a yes/no vote on diverting two weeks research to Advanced Starbase Construction and Starabase Fortification Mark I. These technologies are necessary for continued starbase fortification and are fundamental to our plan to construct sentinel starbases for our protectorates. Those two technologies will still be in the research list. If the vote passes, they will be researched first. If not, they will be researched in the order of priority.
I am also to mention that the technology for Mass Drivers (Planetary Bombardment) has been previously obtained through trade.
Research
Immediate research up to Starbase Fort. Mk I (Yes/No):
Advanced Starbase Construction:
Starbase Fortification Mark I:
Alliances:
Expert Miniaturization (Hyperion Shrinker):
Master Hull Building (Hyperion Shipyard):
Neutrality Learning Centers:
Advanced Toxic:
Advanced Radioactive:
Extreme Entertainment (Ultra Spices):
Tidal Disruption:
Advanced Troop Mod:
Good and Evil:
Balanced Vision:
Duranthium III:
Stinger IV:
Particle Beams I:
Particle Beams II:
Foreign Relations
Construct "sentinel starbases" for Trilarian and Psilonics:
Provide robust continuing support to Trilarian and Psilonics:
Councilor Signature:
The research voting seems to be the biggest issue this quarter. If there are any other issues that you feel warrant a vote, please forward them and voting will continue until all issues are resolved.
Immediate research up to Starbase Fort. Mk I (Yes/No): +
Advanced Starbase Construction: N/A
Starbase Fortification Mark I: N/A
Alliances: 4
Expert Miniaturization (Hyperion Shrinker): 3
Neutrality Learning Centers: 2
Particle Beams I: 1
Construct "sentinel starbases" for Trilarian and Psilonics: +
Provide robust continuing support to Trilarian and Psilonics: +
Propose alliance to Krynn when possible: +
Notes: Given their evidently increased strength, I have reconsidered my feelings towards the previously proposed Krynn alliance, and recommend that we propose one when we have Alliances.
I am neutral on the priority of all technologies not marked - should we complete research on all of those during this quarter, Dr. Malar may conduct further research at his discretion.
Immediate research up to Starbase Fort. Mk I (Yes/No): +, +
Alliances: 4, 5
Expert Miniaturization (Hyperion Shrinker): 3, 2
Neutrality Learning Centers: 2, 4
Tidal Disruption: 7
Advanced Troop Mod: 6
Balanced Vision: 1
Particle Beams II: 3
Construct "sentinel starbases" for Trilarian and Psilonics: +, +
Provide robust continuing support to Trilarian and Psilonics: +, +
Propose alliance to Krynn when possible: +, +
Councilor Signature: talonschild
I'm gonna go ahead and say Lord Councilor qrtxian meant to sign it, too.
Immediate research up to Starbase Fort. Mk I (Yes/No): +, +, 0
Alliances: 4, 5, 6
Expert Miniaturization (Hyperion Shrinker): 3, 2, 5
Neutrality Learning Centers: 2, 4, 1
Tidal Disruption: 7, 8
Advanced Troop Mod: 6, 7
Particle Beams I: 1, 2
Particle Beams II: 3, 3
Robust Hull: 4
Construct "sentinel starbases" for Trilarian and Psilonics: +, +, +
Provide robust continuing support to Trilarian and Psilonics: +, +, +
Propose alliance to Krynn when possible: +, +, +
Councilor Signatures: qrtxian, talonschild, Noctilucus
Immediate research up to Starbase Fort. Mk I (Yes/No): +, +, 0, +
Alliances: 4, 5, 6, 5
Expert Miniaturization (Hyperion Shrinker): 3, 2, 5, 1
Neutrality Learning Centers: 2, 4, 1, 2
Good and Evil: 6
Particle Beams I: 1, 2, 3
Particle Beams II: 3, 3, 4
Construct "sentinel starbases" for Trilarian and Psilonics: +, +, +, +
Provide robust continuing support to Trilarian and Psilonics: +, +, +, +
Propose alliance to Krynn when possible: +, +, +, +
Councilor Signatures: qrtxian, talonschild, Noctilucus, NikolaiOmega
Tallybot 5202:
Input data . . .
Analyzing . . .
Compiling results . . .
Immediate research up to Starbase Fort. Mk I (Yes/No): +, +, 0, +: Pass
Neutrality Learning Centers: 2, 4, 1, 2 - 9
Expert Miniaturization (Hyperion Shrinker): 3, 2, 5, 1 - 11
Particle Beams I: 1, 2, 3 (10) - 16
Particle Beams II: 3, 3, 4 (10) - 20
Alliances: 4, 5, 6, 5 - 20
Balanced Vision: 1 (10) (10) (10) - 31
Advanced Troop Mod: 6, 7 (10) (10) - 33
Robust Hull: 4 (10) (10) (10) - 34
Tidal Disruption: 7, 8 (10) (10) - 35
Good and Evil: 6 (10) (10) (10) - 36
Note: All blank techs removed. For techs with partial votes, maximum value used to compute priority.
Construct "sentinel starbases" for Trilarian and Psilonics: +, +, +, + : Pass
Provide robust continuing support to Trilarian and Psilonics: +, +, +, +: Pass
Propose alliance to Krynn when possible: +, +, +, +: Pass
Transmitting results to Exterra Command . . .
Transmission complete.
***INCOMING TRANSMISSION - SECURITY LEVEL ALPHA***
***FROM: COMMANDER MEKOIDES, EXTERRA COMMAND***
***TO: INITIATIVE COUNCILORS AND ROYALTY, TOLMEKIA PRIME***
***SUBJECT: QUARTERLY REPORT, JULY 01, 2231***
Ld Cmdr Mekoides:
Another twelve weeks and here we are, councilors. Everything has gone according to plan, more or less. The Yor are on the verge of utter defeat, having lost nine of their planets in heavy fighting. Four of their remaining five planets will be under siege within weeks. We'd be even further along, but were set back after capturing the Yor Orbital Command Center early in the quarter. After they lost the ability to coordinate their defenses, we were forced to confront their large defensive forces piecemeal, delaying our invasion forces. Our forces have done extremely well, though I regret to report the first loss of warships in fleet battle. Small losses in the grand scheme of things, but felt no less.
We now control almost all of what was Yor space, including Iconia. They will shortly be left with only their single planet hidden in Drengin space.
A last ditch effort to counter our technological superiority? More like a parting gift as we drive them to the edge of the galaxy. The capital will be ours shortly.
Too little, too late. Gnolam and Thalan fleets have been doing damage to the Collectives eastern forces, leaving their planets undefended as our transports approach. The Thalans will gain no conquest for their expenditure.
***TRANSMISSION INTERRUPT - STAND BY FOR RECONNECT***
The Yor weren't the only only looking to reach some kind of settlement.
The Drengin wasted no time making use of their new freedom. The Krynn also made the move we've been afraid of. The Trilarian aren't weak, but they won't hold out against the Krynn long-term. It will cost us a few thousand bc to bring them to terms, or perhaps a choice technology or trade good. The Drengin we're less concerned about. The Psilonics are in our space now. We can keep them well protected against Drengin aggression.
Toward that goal, we contacted the Psilonics at the beginning of the quarter to offer some support. We then contacted them at the end of the quarter to cement our commitment to preserving their independence. They should be able to move closer to self sufficiency given the scope of our technological and military support.
Galactic relations as they now stand. As you can see, we are becoming increasingly popular. Even the Drengin have warmed up after years of poor relations.
I suppose improved relations are to be expected when our military might has soared in recent weeks. The sharp dip near the end reflects our gift of fleets to the Psilonics. We quickly made up for the loss and continue to expand our production.
The economic boom has come to an end. Our vigorous development has paid off, and we are far better off now than we were beforehand, even with our growing military.
It seems we are the beneficiaries of the the Thalans and Torians breaking trade relations. All their extra trade capacity has shifted to us. We did see a Torian freighter heading for Iconia V immediately prior to our invasion, but it changed course after we captured the planet.
The Psilonics and Trilarian aren't the only local races feeling pressure. The Sakkra don't seem likely to remain independent for very long in the aftermath of our war.
Continuing with the Sakkra, we find that they hold a second world in the heart of Drath space. They have yet to attempt any kind of defense, seeming to rely on their remote position for protection.
The Gnolams, on the other hand, seem to be taking their position seriously. Only time will tell if their preparations are sufficient.
Finally, our research program continues at a steady pace. We worked through Advanced Starbase Construction, Starbase Fortification Mk I, Neutrality Learning Centers, and Expert Miniaturization. We are nearing completion of our first workable Particle Beams. None too soon, either. Our agents tell us that the Torians have Harpoon missiles and the Thalans now have their own Particle Beams.
With that, we'll open the floor for any questions or comments from the council.
***END TRANSMISSION***
Esteemed council,Once again congratulations to our military and at the same time my condolences to the families of our fallen soldiers.I am actually delighted to see that the Yor built a technological capital as this will significantly boost our research capacity once we claim that planet.I do trust that the necessary efforts will be taken to overhaul the conquered Yor planets to make them more suitable to our needs.It is unfortunate that the temporary peace has given way to severall wars against the Trilarians and Psilonics.In any case we have to ensure that their capitals don't fall into enemy hands, worst case claiming them for our own in order to liberate them from the Drengin or Krynn oppression.I am glad to see that the other races see us mostly in a positive light; we will have to watch the Drengin carefully though.Again on the positive side it is good to see that even once the economic boom has come to an end, we are still running a healthy surplus, in no small part thanks to our treaties and trade relations.On the topic of research, seeing that the Thalans are keeping equal pace with us, I would like us to put stronger focus on weapon development (particle beams I, II and probably onto the next level of weaponry), as well as Robust Hull.Seeing our previous vote, I would once again put Tidal Disruption and Advance Troop Mod on the table.I do think it's slightly too early to research and form Alliances though we should be aware that we are now able to do so with races such as the Drath, Iconian and Krynn.
Yours sincerely,Councilor Noctilucus
I am saddened to hear of the loss of our brave men and women in uniform, but their sacrifice was not in vain. I do suggest that, from now on, warships with significant damage be escorted away from the front lines to repair.
The conquest liberation of the Yor colonies will greatly add to our economic, scientific, and industrial might. I notice some Korx colonies dividing our territory, perhaps we could...educate them on our way of life?
The Psilonics and Trilarians should be safe with those fleets, but how much will the maintenance cost their economies?
We should obtain Alliances, it is long overdue and only takes a week. Mass Drivers, Advanced Troop Module, and the entire Particle Beams block should be researched immediately as well to cement our military prowess. Expert Diplomacy, Robust Hull Construction, and Extreme Entertainment are high priority as well.
I do not see as much of a threat from the Thalans as before- they are unlikely to attack their trade partners. We should avoid any alliances for now, as we don't want to be dragged into a war that could hurt our reputation.
Thank you for your time.
Gentle-beings.
I, too, would like to join my fellow lord councilors in congratulating our military in its success against the Yor, as well as in offering my condolences on our losses. With the collective nearly destroyed, it's time to begin considering our new long-term plans. I have no immediate proposals in this regard, though I second Councilor NikolaiOmega's recommendation on avoiding foreign alliances at present - based on the Krynn's aggressive behavior, they are no longer quite as suitable a potential ally, though I do support that we at least complete research on Alliances.
As far as research goes, I support the further development of the Particle Beams branch. I also recommend we pursue Expert Logistics as soon as possible so as to better concentrate our forces.
Otherwise, I have no suggestions or questions at present. Our position seems secure.
Lords Councilor, good day.
I will press past the condolences at this time, for you, my fellow Lords have covered that well and, as always, time waits for no man.
While our position is secure for the moment, that may not last. That we have in fact lost warships is a novelty, and I confess I would prefer it remain a novelty. To that end, I would suggest that our research this quarter consist solely of Alliances and military technologies - specifically, the Particle Beams block, Advanced Troop Mod and Robust Hull Construction. That will consume our research spending this quarter, and at least part of next unless I miss my guess.
As far as future wars go, I think it would be best to have a list of our trading partners, so that we may decide who to keep and who to eye suspiciously. Could one or other of the ministers furnish the council with a list?
I would also suggest at this time that the Initiative pursue a course independent of the other major races. Friendship is all well and good, but self-sufficiency and (unless we choose otherwise) peace are far, far better. Some races see treaties as but ink on a page. Not us. Therefore, let us keep our pages inkless, that we may do as we see fit.
So, research military techs and Alliances (just in case), do not forge any alliances as of now, and please show us with whom we trade and who trades with us.
Best wishes from Jubilee.
Viceroy Gunray:
I am happy to provide you with list of our trading partners. Besides the trade routes that we have established ourselves, we have received freighters from the Thalan Empire, the Torian Confederation, and the Dominion of Korx. Specifically, the Thalans maintain 6 routes, the Korx 4, and the Torians 2.
Our current trade routes. We have license to establish an additional three routes, and already have freighters outbound. One is nearing the homeworld of the Psilonics, while the other two are awaiting instructions.
Where we decide to send those last freighters could have an impact on our long term strategy. We are well situated to establish our domination of this region through either military or diplomatic means. If we wish to attempt for a peaceful takeover, sending those freighters to the Torians and Thalans could help solidify ties between us. If not, we ought to pick our friends and beneficiaries wisely.
Other than that, there seems to be broad consensus on our course of action. If the council would like to voice opinions in this regard, perhaps we can proceed without a formal vote.
If I may be so bold as to try and lay a finger on that consensus, it would be:
Wrap up the Yor War, and pursue military strength as a deterrent. Don't start anything new. Yet.
Also, Alliances.
A freighter should be sent to the Trilarian as well, as they are one of our protected civilizations. The second could be sent to whoever is friendly to us but powerful militarily.
Judging by the fact that even our least profitable trade route earns up to 90 bc a week, I would strongly advise against initiating hostilities with any of our trading partners, now or in the near future.
I have no other specific recommendations, though I feel a ballot ought to be done for form's sake.
I second the idea of a ballot. I imagine it will deal largely with foreign affairs this quarter.
At the request of the council, I have prepared a ballot for this session.
Particle Beams III:
Robust Hull Construction:
Expert Logistics:
Expert Diplomacy:
Extreme Entertainment:
Choice of trading partners (up to 3):
Use monetary means to end wars against Trilarian and Psilonics:
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