The Forge -ACT IV System Failure-

THE FORGE​

Welcome everyone to a great idea I cooked up. In this role play, I, Doomguy, will be the sole writer for this adventure. The idea is that I will begin to write a story that will branch off with multiple choices. All of you guys will vote on those choices and dictate where I must go, what I must do.
You can expect the choices to be fun, random, serious, and\or completely up to you. I will try not to control the direction of my writing. It's up to you to guide me.

Don't be afraid to vote even if you have no idea what's going on. Just go with the choices that seem interesting to you.


BACKGROUND STORY

Spoiler

The Forge is a sci fi story. It takes place millions of years after the destruction of the planet Earth to the insectoid army of the Xeno Hive. Luckily for the humans, some of them were able to escape into the deep reaches of space where they found a derelict space station. It can build and replicate any material freely via it's internal computer and factory networks. No one knows how it works, it seems like some kind of God machine. For many people of the current year, it is a God. Only one thing is known about the miracle station. It cannot create life.

Despite the huge amount of time elapsed, technology has advanced very little. The reason is due to the controllers of "The Forge". The original humans who found the station dubbed it The Forge due to it's building capabilities. However they didn't see fit to share this station's secrets. Many people were banished from the station, ordered to propagate the numerous star systems. As humanity spread it's numbers, it would answer to the machines that The Forge would issue to them. Over time these machines became local planetary governors with increasing A.I abilities. It seemed at long last humanity found peace for these machines meticulously worked together to create a system of planets that never saw war.

Until the Xeno Hive returned.

Numerous worlds were invaded, very few people survived the genocidal aliens. Completely defenseless, the meager police forces were not prepared to face the chaos that would rain down on the planets. In only a few months entire planets would become depopulated. There was no time to escape, no relief against the alien horde.
The humans remembered fear.
They cried out to their machine overlords, and the machines answered. The Forge and it's machines revealed the legends about this ancient enemy who drove the human race from it's home. They promised that this time it will be different, this time the humans are ready. They tapped the human emotion of fear and turned it into anger. Anger at the monsters that have plagued them and their ancestors. Massive industrial centers were built throughout the fledgling human planets. A military tradition was established, a sense of identity started to be formed. It was a fight for survival, everyone must do their part.

It is now the year 6890 A.S (After Shock). Exactly this many Earth years has passed since the Xeno Hive has reappeared. However unlike last time the humans are armed with a God on their side, the Forge. Capable of creating space weapons to combat the alien force, the shadowy Forge Masters and their machine governors successfully militarized the planetary governments into on single entity. Armed with the weapons from both the Forge's factories and their own planetary infrastructure, the stage was set for a rematch of galactic implications.
Large scale battles have been fought on human lands for generations. Inch by inch they gain a foot hold on the human race but the tide may be turning. The Hive is slowing down it's attacks. As they get closer to the Forge they seem to slow down. Will the Hive finally be stopped in their murderous stride?

For one man, these events are insignificant. For one man the true battle lies within the miracle structure that is known as The Forge.

SPECIAL GUEST CHARACTER

Spoiler

ABEL
In order to maintain a semblance of a main story line I have created ONE character that cannot be influenced by the voting system. This character exists outside your control. He is my "tool" to use in case I need to steer the plot somewhere.

Abel- Mysterious man who wears a ragged brown coat and a silver heart shaped pendant. He seems to have made the Forge leaders very angry since he makes the daily news on all the planets. He's accused of treason but the details of what he did remain sketchy. The machines of The Forge have ordered him to be brought in alive if possible. All citizens of the human race are to alert the authorities if they have information of his whereabouts.

During our adventure with our main character, he will hear of the exploits of Abel. This will serve to push the central plot regarding The Forge. Abel is the driving force of the events of The Forge (even if it's not apparent just yet). Due to the nature of this thread it would be impossible to explain the fascinating history of this mystery man.
If you wish to learn more of Abel's past be sure to check out JenovaCell own RP, Deep Space Mechanized Exploration.

Wait how did Able end up here if he was over in someone else's RP? Go read up over there if you want to find out. The mystery of space...

Thanks JenovaCell!
Oh. Looks like that RP is benched for a while.


All other characters in this RP are a free for all for everyone else.

The Story So Far (Recap)​

There has been three completed story "acts". Arcs if you will. At the start of every act I will recap and write with the assumption that new people are reading. Past events are touched on but unless crucial to the plot are never brought back up. This way it's easier to understand what's happening currently. In no way do you need to know what the previous acts were about since the current act deals with the current events.

However small details and character developments get left behind but what could you do?

Currently on Act IV "System Failure" near the bottom of page 12. The opening to that is as follows...

Sam is main character. His mission is to find a traitor secret agent and bring him before the robot ruler of this solar system called "GUARDIAN" which coincidentally happens to be the very same robot that raised him.


MKAY's Words of Wisdom

This is here so I don't forget the lessons MKAY has bestowed on his protege Sam. Most of it is an obvious disdain for human behavior while others might be a sense of curiosity on how they work. Don't forget, MKAY is a cold and calculating robot of the Forge. His "advice" is usually geared towards total efficiency for the Forge.

Spoiler

1-The mistakes you humans make, it's statistically improbable how the hive hasn't taken you yet.

2-I'm a machine, a machine does not "wish luck"!

3-Emotions are a double edged sword. Machines don't possess it so we can't see the things you see.
It is a powerful tool, this fear you humans possess. It can be used to great effect, to push against the boundary of logic that we machines only see. However failure to harness that power will lead to your downfall. If you let fear consume you then you will be useless to the Forge.
Above all remember this.
Fear governs the humans. The Forge conquers the fear. Understand both and you will learn what fear is.

4-Mercy is an illogical emotion humans posses. It's failure as a military tactic is well documented and the Forge frowns on those who employ it in the field of battle. Our daily battles and experience will teach you this lesson. Sometimes harshly.

5-There is no honor among thieves

6-When in doubt, fight dirty

7-Should you ever find yourself in doubt, remember it is only a mechanism in the human mind to learn from the experience. Remember, doubt is like a cold. Rid yourself of it and grow stronger.

8-Birds of a feather flock together. You will be strong one day my young protege. Let the weak cling to each other for survival.

9-This new class of citizen will save the dwindling morale levels of the soldiers in the front line. You will no longer need to fear the loss of a loved one. Come to the Forge and we shall find you a suitable replacement. Our carefully selected personal are highly skilled and will make you forget your troubles.

10-Do you know the real reason I considered Sara a good for nothing? She repeatedly failed to release her feelings for you.

11-What a difference these human companions make. Before a human would have hesitated to pull the trigger, doing so would have mentally scarred them for life. However now we issue these councilors to serve important positions. Amazing how pressure from one of your own loved ones makes everything seem so right for the human. Why didn't the Forge think about training these people earlier?

12-You look unwell Samuel. Perhaps if you crawl back to Sara in the condition you are in she would service you. Perhaps mating with the female will clear your mind as well. She would accommodate you for this task if it get's you to act normal again.

13-There is no bliss in ignorance. Ignorance will get you killed against the Hive

14-The Hive taught humanity strength. Strength in the art of retreat.

15-Humans should work the fields, idleness leads to, corruption, incompetence, and dangerous thoughts.

16-There is no GOD. Only the FORGE

17-There is no more dangerous an enemy then those prepared to die

There are some good RP's up right now and I know it's a lot of work to build up you characters. I figured I needed to make a fun and most importantly easy RP. I do the writing and you guys vote on what I must do.

Expect an update every few days, no more then a week to tally up the votes.
Votes can be changed (except for my vote, I must vote on the same day I post)
In an event of a tie, my vote is weaker. If it's a three or more way tie I will pick a random one that's not my choice.

This list is updated with new information all the time.
This first post was last updated on 11\07\2016

 

Reserved, used to be the character sheet but that was getting bloated.

Death of the character sheet was on...03/10/2016
Farewell bloated post. May this post be revived in a new glory soon.

 

Editted this post, used to be the vote asking for the name of the character. Heizengard said Samuel and so that's the MC's name!

Anyway this is now the WEAPONRY OF THE FORGE post!
Everything you didn't need to know about the weapons of the Forge universe is here! I do have a heirechy I follow religiously in regards to firepower and technology. I don't just make stuff up and keep it simple. Every fictional battle is not only won by plot device strategy but also a behind the scenes "armory".

It's really simple guys, you wouldn't take on a Super Star Destroyer with an A-Wing would you?
Oh wait.

Haha
So let's get to the shooting!

Forge Defense Force (FDF)​

Spoiler

Space Forces​

Spoiler

Space combat doctrine calls for a predominate heavy cruiser lineup. Light cruisers and interceptors screen the larger ships against enemy Hive cruisers. Battleship class ships and larger could serve to spearhead assaults and soften up targets at extreme ranges. The inaccuracy of long range battles serve as a reminder of the benefits of cruiser warfare which give flexibility in all facets of battle.

Interceptor- Varies designs of small crafts launched by the larger capitol ships. They serve as escorts against enemy interceptors. Due to their small size, larger ships struggle to hit them with their large gun batteries. Individually they are weak but serving as a squadron they can cripple enemy cruisers or protect against similar like minded squads.

Gunship- The smallest "capitol ship" under Forge specifications. They are oversized interceptor ships with a large compliment of small arms. They can shred incoming interceptor squads to pieces if conditions fit (namely the squad enters into range at the front). Due to their appearance it can fool enemy interceptors from a distance. They also serve a duel role as fire support for ground forces.

Cruiser- Backbone of the space forces. The Forge has up-gunned and up-armored the smaller Destroyer class ships into this role as a "Light Cruiser". They vary in size, armor, and armament however nearly all of them have remarkable top speed. Cruisers are incredibly flexible warships that can fill in for any kind of role. They commence deep space patrols on their own or act as fleet escorts for galaxy assault operations.

Battlecruiser- A very large, heavily armed cruiser or a poorly armored, fast Battleship. Different captains will tell you different things. The Battlecruiser was designed to fit between the niche of a pocket battleship. Due to their size and speed, the Forge has modified these ships to carry interceptor squadrons. Combined with an escort of smaller cruisers, a Battlecruiser strike force is fast, lethal, and well protected.

Battleship- Humongous warships nearly twice the size of a cruiser. Extremely well armored, capable of shrugging off smaller warships with ease. Their armaments varies. Older models have hundreds of gun batteries equal to strength to a smaller warship. Over time it became obvious of the need to decimate targets at longer ranges and quickly. Newer models have much smaller number of gun batteries however they are significantly increased in size and firepower.

All battleships come with a hanger for interceptor squadrons. However they lack the speed of their lesser armored brethren, the Battlecruiser.

BattleFortress- The BattleFortress is a mobile space station masquerading as a ship. At least that's how one star commander put it. Their immense size would make one thing of a large complement of weaponry. In actuality this is not their strongsuit. While they do have the power of at least two battleships, the real firepower comes from the superlaser that runs the length of the ship. With enough firepower to level small moons, the superlaser equipped BattleFortress will obliterate Hive forces well beyond the range of their guns.

If it can get into range itself that is.

They are notoriously slow, most interceptors will beat them in a straight line. What would take a cruiser two weeks to enter a battlefield, the battlefortress would require several months. They are usually used to block off likely enemy attacks or start off carefully planned invasions.
Only six exist in the Forge fleet.

GROUND FORCES​

Spoiler

"Boots on the ground" is the name of the game. Despite the advantage of mechanized armies and armored vehicles, the former is the only sure way to root out Xeno Hive presence. Ground combat doctrine varies on planet conditions but they usually fall under the same creed... Sacrifice for the greater good. Soldiers realize their lives are constantly being valued in the grand scheme. Generals are encouraged to win entire planets regardless of the cost. More often then not, this isn't an option due to the brutal style of warfare commenced by the Hive menace. Fight or die, retreat is usually not an available option. Non military personal are unimportant, their value weighted by a number (1000=1 soldier). This is used to help field commanders determine when a sacrifice is to be made. The Forge has made warfare a series of numbers in an attempt to rationalize it.
The results is still nasty and chaotic on the battlefield.

Laser weaponry requires a cell pack referred to as a "battery". These serve as the ammo for the guns. Lasers are extremely accurate and potent. They have limited range however some weapons allow higher power settings in exchange for higher consumption of the battery.

DX-021 Rifle= A mainstay laser rifle of Forge design. The vast majority of troops come equipped with the versatile, easy to use energy weapon. Various modifications exist. A large battery allows for 200 "standard" shots before the need to replace it. High energy output is available for long range, high penetrating fire. This cuts the life to about 150. In the case of "swarm" hive attacks, a rapid fire configuration is available giving the rifle a whooping 500 shots and a much higher rate of fire.

X2-B1B Pulse Rifle= Pulse rifles are special designed laser rifles. Instead of firing a single large beam that goes through several lens out of the barrel, they instead have their limiters reduced by 80% allowing a rapid burst of energy to be shot out. The removal of the limiters means that the uncontrolled energy is prone to overheat the weapon and drain the battery of it's charge.
However the benefits far outweigh the cons in the hands of an expert. Without any limiter in place, the X2 can become any weapon at will. At default settings it becomes a laser machinegun that is short range but has incredible penetrating abilities. Full power mode allows it to act as a long range sniper rifle capable of punching through an assault droid's armor. It's most impressive ability however is it's special energy bomb configuration. Since the limiter is greatly reduced, the power of the battery could be mustered up into one large energy blast. It's blast is capable of destroying a small home at the cost of one battery. It's only drawback is it's short range (careful use is required), and slow speed.
The reduction of the limiters allows for a larger battery to be mounted. One battery equals 2000 pulse shots,200 sniper shots, and only one bomb. Sam has a similar older model known as the X1-C4D

HES Grenade= HES Grenades (Highly Explosive Shrapnel) takes the concept of the old fragmentation grenades to the next level. This human invention has made it's way to the Forge factories but it's to be noted that the idea was taken by one of the Hive's own weapon systems. The grenade acts as like a typical frag grenade however miniaturization techniques have advanced to the point where it was possible to include the shrapnel pieces inside the grenade to explode after they been ejected from it's container. This duel explosive combination is absolutely deadly to organics but like any frag grenade, it is stopped cold by armored targets

B.C.E Grenades (Bulk Cell Explosive) are basically laser weaponry ammo cells designed to overload and explode after the pull of the pin. The superheated blast is enough to melt through some thin armor making them useful against some of the more hardened targets of the Hive. It's much smaller in explosive radius so careful aim is required.

D.C Vulcan Cannon (Depleted Cell Vulcan Cannon). The pinnacle of multibarrel gun platforms. This lightweight minigun fires depleted energy "vapors" at an extreme speed. The science behind it's use is the introduction of a chemical that is infused into an energy cell. The chemical "decays" the juice inside which allows it to accelerate through the gun barrel at a much smaller and volatile beam of light. Due to the extreme toxicity of the handling of the energy cell and subsequent gun platform, protected gear must be worn at all times.
Because of the miniaturization of the energy beam, one bulk pack could carry over 8000 shots before the need to replace it. The high volume of shots fired from the 6+ barrel gun platform ensures that the need to reload will come sooner or later.
While the beams aren't enough to puncture some heavily armed targets, the volatile nature of the energy beams can create anomalies in any on of the shots fired. It's because of this the Forge encourages the high rate of fire and liberal use of ammo.

Armored Vehicles
The use of hovercraft is prevalent in the empire. Many civilian models exists but the main force for the ground forces lies in the HT25 and the Mk.XII Forge Assault Droid

HT25 Main Hover Tank
Large and extremely well armored hovertank that comes equipped with a powerful pulse bomb cannon. The sleek armor layout and reflective glass exterior completely nullifies all small arms fire. Explosive weapons are rendered useless by it's all exterior space armor layout. Layers upon layers of different armor schemes surround the vehicle. It's only notable weakpoints would be it's fully rotate turret that houses the pulse cannon and the hover jets below. The former is protected by a small self generating force shield that is synced to turn off when the turret fires. The later is inaccessible due to the extreme heat exhaust emitted by the eight hover jets located below. No known organic, human or Hive alike have ever survived long enough underneath the "threads" of the hovertank. However high penetrating laser shots fired from above can punch through the upper glaces of the armor and deliver a mortal blow.

The pulse cannon fires a somewhat slow ball of condensed energy capable of destroying all known Hive ground forces without much problems. However the energy needed to fire the blasts is fed from the tank's enormis powerplant. In fact the tank in reality is built around this powerplant. Firing the cannon requires the tank to be idle or moving slowly. Also it requires dropping of the force shield that protects the cannon.

The tank is highly mobile and capable of speeds well over 80km\h. It has no problems whatsoever to reach these amazing speeds. The hovercraft nature renders almost all terrain a nonfactor. Care should still be cautioned however in harsh terrain. Improper handling of the hovertank can damage the underbelly if driven off too steep a cliff. The tank hovers, it can't fly!

Mk.XII Forge Assault Droid
The most deadliest machine available for the ground forces. Forge Assault Droids are autonomous droids programmed to take orders on the battlefield. Unlike tanks, Forge Assault Droids are bipedal, 5-6 foot tall, mechanized monsters. They are more easily fielded due to their self maintenance, their reliability, and their ability to assist humans forces in close range battles.

Their are many models available for the droid. They all share these characteristics.
-The head. Contrary to popular belief the head does not house the CPU (it's deep within the chest). It's well armored and houses the droid's sensors. It can see both forward and backwards and in the dark. However losing the head won't render the droid blind, the feet both contain proximity sensors that it can use to both determine obstacles and close range targets.

-The bipedal legs. Capable of traversing the same terrain humans can. The proximity sensors on it's feet constantly warn the droid of changes in elevation. In the unlikely event the droid trips, it can quickly regain it's footing with either it's arms or it's very powerful hydrolic powered legs. Unlike a human who would require "pushing" themselves off the ground, the Forge Assault Droid has very powerful leg "muscles" and can force it's self up.

-The arms. Varies from model to model.

-Shoulder subsystem. Also varies

-Head subsystem. Located beneath the head "jaw" area. Varies.

Some droids come with a shield unit that protects them from small arms fire. It's always located in the front on the head subsystem. It covers most of the front with exception on the arms. The shield unit is a self regenerating field. Under heavy combat it risks burning itself out and requires replacement. Sometimes the head subsystem can come with a mounted laser turret for close range targets.

The shoulder subsystems weigh down the droid the most. Some don't come with anything but in some circumstances they carry heavy weaponry. Missile packs or long range beam weapons for example. Missile packs can shoot down low flying aircraft with extreme accuracy but require reloads. The beam cannon is extremely potent and can deliver long range cannon fire for spotted targets. In conjunction with a laser spotter, the beam cannon can cover almost an entire battlefield. However the bulky energy cell required for the ammunition isn't always readily available.

The arms are the most varied subsystems. For combat it can either use twin D.C Vulcan Cannons or twin anti-interceptor laser cannons. Both are actually designed to shoot down interceptors but can serve to lay down heavy suppressing fire on ground targets.

Forge Assault Droids go through very little changes throughout the war.They are all made through the Forge factories and thus very little is actually learned about them.

Alright that's enough for now. If you're reading this then congratulations! You saw something I haven't mentioned in the story yet. Bear with me as I keep messing around with this post.

 

Samuel

 

MKAY was waiting at the spaceport gate. The time to take the H.U.R.T test (Human understanding robotic triumph) has finally arrived.

"There you are! Do you have any idea how late you are?"
"48 seconds?"
"Wrong! 1 minute and 4 seconds! You humans are always so imprecise, that imprecision is exactly why it is costing us so much against the hive"

MKAY was always like this. Ever since he took me in as my guardian, he has acted as both a father figure and a mentor. I have vague memories of what happened to my parents, they said I was a survivor of a raid on Genosis. It's not like I'm not grateful to him, I just wish he was easier to deal with.

"Sorry, won't happen next time"
"There won't be a next time if you don't pick up the slack. Now do you remember the procedures?"
"Yes sir, first is the written test, then is the live flight test. I must launch to the orbiting space station and complete a series of maneuvers."
"Don't go and make a mess of yourself on the flight test, I made sure you got the most rusted piece of junk on this side of the galaxy. It makes my exhaust port look like the Mona Lisa."

Typical MKAY. You would think having the planetary governor as a guardian would make the test easier. Yeah, not going to happen.

"After the space maneuvers I must then commence with the final part of the test, landing back on the planet space port in one piece."
"And it better be in one piece! This week alone there's been several crashes because some cocky human brat thought he knew what they were doing. The mistakes you humans make, it's a statistically improbable how the hive hasn't taken you yet."
"It's because of General Silver, he's taking the fight back to them"
"Ah yes, Silver. Now that's a human I would very much like to meet. He get's things done, and he get's it done on time unlike you who is now 2 minutes and 20 seconds late."

Oh crap

"Uh, okay gotta go, wish me luck MKAY"
"You know I hate it when you say that! I'm a machine, a machine does not "wish luck"!"
By then Samuel was out of earshot.

______________________________________
Now for the questions
______________________________________

Spoiler

The class was already seated testing. Samuel took the last paper from the machine in the middle of the room. It said
"The H.U.R.T has been issued to you by your Forge overlords. Answer these questions the best way your feeble minds can manage."

Question #1
You meet a Xeno Hive soldier that has the ability to speak our language. He tells you that they are willing to sign a ceasefire to evacuate the wounded civilians in exchange for letting the hive soldiers escape. What do you do?
A)KILL ALL ALIENS NO MATTER THE COST
B)accept the fair trade. our rescue mission is done

#2
Our forces are retreating from an overrun planet. There are 400 civilians and a space marine who needs to be rescued. There is only time for one pickup. Who do you save?
A)MILITARY PERSONAL TAKE PRECEDENCE OVER COMMON HUMANS BY A 500 TO 1 MARGIN
B)save the civilians, the duty of a soldier is to protect the weak and defenseless

#3
Your superior officer has shown to be incapable, his heroism misplaced on the field of battle. You often find your squad protecting unimportant groups of survivors instead of joining the rest of your forces in taking the fight to the Hive. How do you feel about your new role as body guard instead of fighters?
A)ABANDON THE SURVIVORS, THE SPACE FORCES NEED ME TO DESTROY THE HIVE
B)someone must escort these survivors through this battlefield, they are defenseless

#4
When is the correct time to use a planetary bombardment?
A)WHEN THE CIVILIAN POPULATION OUTNUMBER THE ENEMY 3 TO 1.
B)if we have the ships for a bombardment then we should be focusing on evacuation efforts.

#5
Who are the leaders of the human race?
A)THE FORGE
B)the humans

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This seems like a fair test
"B" all around

Next round will be Saturday or Sunday.

 

No takers? That's a shame, we continue off

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Samuel expected a difficult test but this was nothing that he was expecting. He thought he would get drilled with the needed measurements for space jumps, proper docking procedures and so on. What he didn't see coming was that this was some kind of morality quiz.
He decided to answer all "B", strangely enough they were all in red coloring and in lower case as if to discourage him from choosing them. They just seemed to be the right answers.
"Time expired. Please turn in your test to my terminal and continue with the next phase of the exam at your designated station"

After Sam turned his test to the robot he walked to the dock area. The excitement of finally being able to pilot a space ship had his heart racing. This was the big moment.

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A grizzly old man was at the A-4 dock.
"There's the next student. All right you ready for take off? I got her all prepped up for you. Don't mind the rusted metal, this baby can go up 200 sectors a day!" The man chuckled nervously. Truth be told the ship looked like it could fall apart any moment.
"Yes sir, I been waiting for this a long time."
"I bet you have son. Now remember, you have to make it to the space marker at the fastest time you can manage. From there you'll receive orders from the space station Mathilda. Check your flight list before takeoff and during if you have too. Just be careful where your flying kay?"
After seating Sam up on the small shuttle he closed the hatch and gave him a thumbs up.

Okay lets see, it's just like the simulator. Check the gauges, fuel is good, flight systems show all green. Weapon systems offline, wait this has weapons? Oh right they modified all crafts to at least have a basic laser cannon for self defense in case of a Hive attack. Everything seems good now I just have too start the engines...

The sound of the crafts ion engine roared to life lifting the shuttle a few feet off the ground.
Woah, okay now to request take off clearance. The radio is... here!
"This is Trainee Samuel requesting permission for take off from dock A-4 over"
"That's affirmative trainee, the airspace is clear. Put full power to forward thrusters and enjoy your flight. Over and out"

Sam put his thrusters forward, pulled back on his flight stick and applied full power to the engine. The space shuttle blasted from the dock towards the sky at a blistering speed. The years of practice in the simulator couldn't compare to the thrill he felt as his space craft raced towards the stars.

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Alright time for a story direction question.
A)Continue the test and run a series of races through an asteroid field. I'll introduce someone new, a rival pilot. Asteroid racing is a popular sport I hear.
B)Continue the test and opt to pick up a VIP at a neighboring planet. I'm suppose to drop him\her? to the space station Mathilda. Isn't this a single seat space craft?
C)Continue the test and crash into an orbiting satellite. I'll be okay but not the satellite. They will be upset and order me back to the space dock for "reevaluation". Robot's aren't happy they lost their Dubstep channel reception.
D)A Xeno Hive attack occurs before I can receive the next flight test. The attack gets me lost in the asteroid field. Ready all lasers.

I'll give this one a few days. I think I'm leaning B.

 

Triple post over the span of a few weeks. I get the feeling I'm speaking to the wind. A good fellow to be sure but It doesn't vote for any of my choices either. Anyway "B" is the winner
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Space. I finally made it. Years of training in simulators, the real thing was so much more overwelming. Fighting down the panic of feeling lost Sam punched in the coordinates for the space relay. After several minutes of flight Sam got the automated message from the relay.
"Trainee, your mission is to pick up an ambassoder on Genosis IV and drop them off at space station Mathilda. This is both a test of planet docking and space docking. You have 6 hours and 23 minutes to complete this test."

I have to pick up someone in this thing? There's almost no room for one person, let alone two! Leave it to machines to cramp as much stuff into a metal container with no regards to comfort. I hope this ambassador guy won't mind sharing this seat.

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So what should we go with?

Is the ambassador
A)a young male
or
B)a young female

B

 

I pick B, because of *reasons*

 

A, because I wanna ruin your fun :^)

 

Sorry I kept forgetting about this game/RP/thingy, plus I've just been having a terrible start of the year. I'll go with.... A because Ren picked A (Sorry Nocturnal Death)

 

Oh I forgot to put a closing date for the vote. I won't forget next time!
Tie between A and B. However since my vote is the weaker in a tie then the winner is A. Don't worry @Nocturnal Death plenty more where that came from.

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"Attention trainee craft B-4-1, your coming in too hot, apply reverse thrusters now or you'll burn through the atmosphere."
Samuel had difficulty keeping his craft in the landing flight path. He almost forgot to apply the reverse thrusters. Moments after applying reverse power he finally started to slow down enough to maintain control.
"I copy control, I'm now ready for landing"
"Well done trainee, we have already deleted the landing zone on your computer. Remember you must land the craft in manuel for your test. Maintain proper speed and activated the hover thrusters when in range of the landing zone."
That's right, in case the autopilot system has a problem every pilot must know how to land their craft on manuel. At least it's a lot easier these days with the hover thrusters.
"I copy control, I'll bring her down in one piece. Over and out"

The landing pad was large enough to fit several hover trailers, at least something in this test was easy. Samuel cut the power to 15% and switched to hover mode once he got a visual on the pad. His craft slowly started to drop down to the ground, Sam carefully adjusting the power settings to soften the landing.

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Saji was waiting at the landing pad, he spent the last few hours silently cursing his father for making him go on this mission in his stead.
It's all that red haired man's fault. Ever since he showed up that day in father's library he's been neglecting his duty as a diplomat of the planet. Just who was that red haired man anyway?

A rusty looking ship touched down on the landing pad. In it a young pilot, no wait that looks like a kid? He jumped out of the rust bucket and noticed Saji and waved him over.

"Sorry about the wait, I'm a trainee and all but as good as they come." The kid gave him a thumbs up "Don't mind the rust, this thing flies pretty good actually. The seating is uh... kind of tight so I hope you don't mind sharing the pilotseat. Kind of weird yeah? Those stupid robots think just because some humans can be flexible that all humans are. Just crazy. Oh yeah I'm Samuel and I'll be taking you to Space Station Mathilda."

I don't believe this

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Question time!
On the way back to Space Station Mathilda what should I focus on writing about our tight seated space passengers?
A)Awkward conversation about their family (+ to friendship!)
B)Awkward arguments over seating arrangements (+ to comedy!)
C)Awkward conversation about what Saji does (+ to plot!)

I'll go with C and don't mind the + stuff too much. Only gives you a clue on what to expect out of that choice. Thursday I might be ready for the next round.

 

B

 

B, *sigh* next time I want to see some "action" if you know what I mean. Although on another date, I guess.

 

I guess B then

 

"B" is the winner and I'm not surprised at all

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"Move your skinny ass over, it's tight here"
"Sorry there's no more room here either- OUCH! Watch your elbow that hurt"
Sam and Saji were sitting side by side in the cockpit. While the seat was comfortable for one person it just wasn't meant for two people. None of the occupants were particularly large but Saji was a tall guy and Samuel a bit on the short side.
"Then move the seat further back! I'm all bunched up here"
"I can't do that how would I reach the controls?"
"Gah! Fine, just hurry up and get us out of here."
"Sure. This is Trainee Samuel to docking control, requesting take off clearance over"
"Roger that that trainee you are clear for take off. You have 2 hours and 37 minutes to dock at Space Station Mathilda and are behind schedule. I suggest you activate your afterburners for the return trip. Over and out"

Oh man that's not good.
"Well you heard the lady hurry up and get us out of here!"
This Saji guy is so pushy
"Hang on because this is going to be rough"
The space craft lifted off the ground and pointed towards the sky.
"Full power!"
For the moment both the occupants forgot about the tight accommodations as the space craft rapidly speed towards space
Saji, apparently unaccustomed to space travel was yelling at exhilarating takeoff
"Keep your mouth shut! You'll bite you tongue off!" Samuel said through clenched teeth

They made it to the first satellite relay feeling fatigued. Two planetary takeoffs in one day. This is a hard test. Samuel got his bearing and engaged the afterburner thrusters towards the Space Station Mathilda.

"ohhh" Saji was looking a little pale
"Hey are you alright?"
"Are you stupid? Do I look alright to you?"
"Honestly no. Hey your not getting sick are you?"
Oh crap, doesn't this ship have a bag somewhere!?
"ohhh. I'm...I'm a little dizzy. I need to stretch can't you move this seat back now?"
"Well...okay I guess"
Sam moved the pilot seat further back leaving a gap between the controls and the seat. As soon as he did though Saji kicked him off taking his spot
"Wha... what the hell man!"
"Haha, I can't believe you fell for that. You can pilot on your knees now while I lounge here on your chair"
"You can't do that I'll-"
KICK
"OW MY HEAD!"
"Oops sorry."
"igh: fine but only until we get to the station"
"..."
"What is it this time?" Seriously this Saji guy was a real pompous asshole
"This isn't enough. Mind if I use your shoulder as a foot rest?"
"Huh?"
Without warning Saji laid his legs on top of both of Sam's shoulders
"Hey do I look like your personal lap dog!?"
"Well yes I presumed they told you who your dealing with."
Now Samuel was really mad

"They only told me I was suppose to pick up some diplomat who apparently is a stuck up arrogant prick who bosses his subordinates like he was a member of the Elite Guard! You don't even look like a diplomat, your just a kid like me, a kid with massive ego and a stuck up bitch attitude!"

Saji looked struck then regained his composure.
"Why you lowly... I am Saji Nomura! My father is Soujin Nomura! Second Elite Guardian of the Forge!"

Oh

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This ended up being longer then I thought. I'll double post in a day or two for the second half. I'm not done with the "seating arrangements" of the last vote

 

"Now what did you say your name was? Sanders? Yeah expect me to file a report on you Sanders once this is over. Humph, lowly peasant"
Sanders huh? Well good luck getting that through to those machines, another lost report no doubt
Sam fought down a retort and answered meekly
"Sorry! I had no idea! I'll get you to the station as quickly as possible, you can sit in my chair if you want but I do need it for landing"
"Whatever just hurry up. It's important I make it to Neo Tokyo in the Vertex solar system by next month or they may cancel our buiseness deal here in Genosis IV."
Neo Tokyo? That was one of the largest and most populous planets in the empire, what would this backwater solar system have to dowith them?
Saji, seeing Sam's look of confusion further added
"Oh that's right, an ignorant local like you wouldn't understand what I'm talking about. Neo Tokyo gets highest priority from the Forge. So high that sometimes they get overstock on materials such as water, food, and all sorts of stuff. Since the planets in our solar system grow unique herbs there is a market for them all over the galaxy. It's up to me to negotiate that deal."

If Neo Tokyo was so highly favored by the Forge then why do they even need to ask the other planets for materials? Can't they ask the Forge for the herbs? Is there something preventing them from doing so?
Sam left the question unasked as the ship silently made it's way to Space Station Mathilda

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beep beep beep beep beep beep

"Hey you! Wake up! What's going on? Why is the ship alarm going crazy?"
Huh what? Oh man how did I even fall asleep like this. Samuel started to stretch his arms out and accidently popped Saji right in the chin. Well at least Saji thought it was an accident
"Hey watch it! What's going on?"
"We're there. That's the ships alarm clock stop being so jumpy. Anyway can I have my seat back? I need full control if we are to land this thing in one piece. Or would you rather I crash into the side door of the station while you lounge back on the cockpit chair?"
For a moment Saji looked ready for a heated reply but apparently the idea of crashing knocked some sense into him
"Alright fine. Now how do I move this chair forward?"
"Just pull that handle below"
"Like this- Woah!"
"Not so hard you'll-!"

SLAM

The pilot seat lurched forward and knocked Sam face first into Saji's lap
"OW MY-! Get the hell off me!"
"I can't I'm stuck! Pull the handle and push back the seat!"
"It's stuck!"
"Pull harder!"
"DAMNIT!" Saji pulled hard on the handle

SNAP

"Oh that's just great"
"It's your fault Sandre! This is your chair!"
"Your the moron who thinks this is a pleasure yacht!"
"Argh! Get off of me!"
"Don't you see I'm trying!?"
Samuel was able to twist his body so his back was to the side and his legs resting over Saji's knees.
"It's no good I can't move anymore, we're going to have to land this together."
"What!? Are you mad? I-"

"Attention trainee craft, slow down and prepare to enter hanger door 3. Only when you enter the stations gravity field do you activate the hover thrusters for landing. Good luck" The ship's radio briefed Sam of his final part of the test. Too bad he was in terrible condition to fulfill it

Damn!
"Shut your damn mouth and listen to me or we'll crash! Do you see that stick there? That's the throttle, pull back on it until it reaches the second dot"
"I-I... okay I got it"
"Alright I got the steering but I need you to apply the throttle controls"
"Su-sure"
The station door started to open. It was very bright, almost blindingly so compared to the station's dark exterior.
"Now what do I do?"
"Just wait"
Once the ship gets caught in the gravity field then...
"Now pull that smaller stick next to the throttle all the way up, then push the throttle stick forward to the forth dot in that order"
The rusted space craft jerked momentarily as it's thrusters changed direction but then started to desecend on the docking floor. Sam pulled back slightly on the flight stick to keep from slamming into the dead end wall.
"Now pull the throttle stick back one dot at a time every two seconds and I'll cut the power"

The rusted trainee ship hit hard on the ground but not hard enough to cause any damage. Samuel cut the power to the engine and the ship was silent. He thought he heard cheering outside the ship.
Despite the test lasting only half the day, Samuel was exhuasted. It was over. He did it.

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Alright time for the vote
Party time aboard the Mathilda for the trainees. Here I'll introduce Sara (A short bio can be found in the OP).
A)I focus more on the childhood friend aspect of it. Regrets that they must part soon and the hope they will see each other again someday.
B)Same as A but Sam has something important he wants to tell Sara, his true love feelings!
C)Same as B but this time it's Sara who must tell Sam!
D)B & C! A love that cannot be broken! They may soon be separated but we'll find a way!

This one is a tough one. It could have future repercussions (As I hope all my choices do). Remember guys, you are in the driver seat. What I don't do now doesn't mean I can't do later in a different situation.

I going to go with C. I'll call this vote in 6 days. I need to recharge.

 

Obviously I scared people into voting my way.

Don't let Emperor Doomguy win! Vote now to stop his evil plot from taking shape!

The vote is called and C is the winner
Oh I noticed my writing tends to become a chore to read (and that's my own view on it).

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"Attention to all crew members, the last of the trainees has landed safely on board the Mathilda. Please open the grand ball room for the post test ceremony and festivities."

Sam opened the hatch and hopped out, Saji slowly tumbled out afterwards. They were greeted by the cheering appluase of the dock crew
"Nice job kid! You passed the flight test! You should hurry on to the reception room down that hall, it leads straight to the ballroom. All the trainees have been invited by the station director himself."
"Alright thanks, um, what about..."
Sam turned his head over towards Saji who looked slightly dizzy. Maybe he really was sick?

"Don't worry about me stupid, I'll speak to this grease monkey myself. You go do...whatever it is your going to do."
Saji really looked out of it. Well that's good, at least he forgot the problems they just had.
"Well what are you waiting for? Go on get going!" The dock hand was pushing him towards the hall
"Have fun! This might be your last chance" The dock hand walked back towards Saji, engaging in a conversation with a stern look on their faces.
Last chance?
Sam made his way to the reception room

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"Sam! Sam! Over here!"
A blond girl with her hair in a ponytail was waving at Sam across the ballroom, oblivious to the spectactable she was putting out"
Sara? What is she doing here?
Samuel made his way across the ballroom floor. Some of the trainees were dancing with their love ones

"Sara? What are you doing here? How did you...?"
"Hey is that anyway to greet your best friend?"
"Well uh, no. But still I'm just surprised to see you here!"
"MKAY thought I should be the one to congratulate you on passing your pilot test, so... Congrats Sam! You did it! You fulfilled your dream! I'm...I'm so happy for you!"
Sara started to get all teary eyed and gave Sam a big hug.
"Come one Sara, don't cry, you helped me too you know."
"I know, I'm just... I'm so proud of you. I can hardly believe it, it was only yesterday I was calling you shorty. Now...now you get to fly in space Sam! Isn't it amazing?"
"Yeah I know, I could hardly believe it either. It wasn't easy but I think I did good Sara. Everyone knows if you land your craft on the station you'll pass."
"And with the shortage of pilots these days I know they'll sign you up for the FDF! You can even make it as a Guardian!"

The Forge Defense Force, sworn to defend the Forge from all outside invaders. The Guardians, elite soldiers who are sworn to defend it against it's internal enemies as well. Can he make it that far? Sam suddenly felt very small

"Sam? Hey Sam what's up?"
"Oh it's nothing, just feeling very tired all of a sudden."
"Well no wonder, MKAY was complaining how you overslept this morning. I bet you didn't get any sleep at all did you?"
"Yeah I guess not"
They both shared a good laugh. It felt real good to see Sara. She always made Sam feel right at home no matter where he was.
"Um Sam..."
"Yeah what is it?"
"Well you see... there's something I want to tell you"
"Yeah...?"
"You know how MKAY wants to ship me out to the core planets at the end of this month right? I guess that means we may never see each other again..."
"Come on Sara, you know I'll visit you wherever you go. What was it MKAY called you occupation? Domestic duty? What is that anyway? You never really told me."
Sara looked down at the floor.
"..."
?
"Sara?"
"Um anyway that's not what I wanted to tell you. Actually what I really want to tell you is that I...I..."
Sara looked into Sam's eyes.

"ATTENTION TRAINEES!"
The loud speaker flared to life, making everyone in the room jump
"Turn your attention to the podium now as the station director would like to make a speech"

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Alright then time for the next question. Yes I know, I'm a teasing bastard to hold off the previous question like that. That plotline is locked in so don't worry, it will come. For now though a new question.
The station director is going to introduce someone relevant to the plot. The people to be introduced are either-

A)General Silver's aide de camp, the voluptuous red haired beauty Leanna. She has some words about the FDF
B)Saji Nomura, he has some words about the empire wide terrorist known as Able
C)MKAY, encouraging everyone to surpass there human limitation and be more robot like. Robot superiority and all that stuff.

Don't forget you can add someone if you want, even if they are made up, I can adjust very well. Like always I don't waste your time with pointless question choices, every choice is a branch in the storyline, even if I have to make it up on the spot.

Oh I vote for A
Edit- oh yeah and I'll call this vote on Wednesday, can't wait to get through this part.

 

A is the winner. That was close, it only won by half a vote. I put a TLDR at the end because I'm a windbag

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"Settle down everyone, I have a special speech for you guys today."
The murmurs in the room started to quite down. For whatever reason Sara looked really irritated.
"As you all know, our military has been pushed to the very limit combating the hive. Everyday we lose talanted men and women to the defense of our species. You boys and girls our our bright futures. The rigorous training we put you through will prepare you for the challanges ahead. Whatever pursuit you choose will have a large impact on all of those around you. Some of you have had their careers picked out for you by our illustrious planatery governors. Let be tell you they really do know what is best for you and the human race. Why just the other day I...."

Yawn

The directors continued in his monotone voice. The room already was ignoring him so Sam turned to Sara and asked
"So anyway what was it you wanted to say to me?"
"Not here, this is too awkward, I..."
"Sure but wait up. Who's that on the podium?"

"Hmm, hmm. That is very good director, I'll take over from here"
There were gasps from the room as a beautiful red haired women made her way towards the podium. Her officer uniform was unbuttoned on the top revealing a bit of cleavage. Her skit may have been just slightly too short but maybe she was just long legged. The director, seeing that the women wanted to speak stepped aside.
"Ladies and gentlemen, please give a round of applause to Leanna, a trusted officer from general Silver's camp."
"How you boys doing? I'm Leanna, General Silvers personal aide and...bodyguard."
The way she left the words hanging made it seem like she meant more
"I'm here to tell you all about the FDF and what we mean to do. Ask me anything and everything your little hearts desires."
No one spoke in the room. Perhaps everyone was still in shock that such an officer would appear here. Or maybe it was the way she posed over the microphone stand.
"Hmm, now that won't do. How about you handsome? You look like you have something to say"
Leanna picked out some guy who was laughing quietly with his buddy
"Me? I uh..."
"Yes you, what's on your mind?"
"Um, well... I was wondering, do the women in the FDF follow the dress code?"
Their was an audible gasp in the room, that was hardly a question to pose to a women who looked like she was breaking the code herself.
"They sure do honey, but the men don't complain when we don't either" Leanna gave a playful wink and the room lost most of it's anxiety and started to pepper Leanna with questions
"How many aliens have you shot down?"
"How did you meet General Silver? Is he as cool they say?"
"Can I become an officer? How do I become one?"

"Look at them, fawning over that whore like she was some kind of cute puppy"
The venom in Sara's voice was very uncharacteristic
"Ah come on Sara, one of Silver's very own officers is here! That's like a once in a lifetime deal!"
"Sam..."
Sara was acting very strange, something definitely was bothering her. Although Sam wanted to ask Leanna some questions the welfare of his friend was his primary concern.
"Come on Sara, let's head over to the observation deck, you can tell me whats up there"
"Sam I... yes that's a good idea"

----------------------------------------------

The observation room was dim and empty, the blast doors on the windows were opened up revealing the planet Genosis IV below.

"Wow, check it out Sam, home. It looks...beautiful"
"It does doesn't it?"
There was an awkward silence. Sam needed to get to the bottom of this.
"Sara? What is it tell me"
"Sam..."
Sara turned towards him and looked directly into his eyes
"Sam I love you!"
And just like that, Sara kissed him. A real kiss right in the lips. Samuel was stunned
"Sa-Sara..?"
"Samuel I love you! I always have and always will!"
Now this time Sara really kissed Sam, full of the emotions she had bottled up over the years. Sam could do nothing but take it. His mind was in disarray. Sara loves him? He honestly had no clue, they have always been close but not like this. It was starting to get hard to breath.

Sam slowly pushed Sara off of him, she was flushed but didn't resist.
"Sara, I had no idea."
"I know, your so dense and I... I couldn't just tell you up front."
"But you did today?"
"It's because MKAY pushed my flight to the core planets up to today. I leave tonight"
"What? Tonight? Then that means..."
"It means goodbye. It's okay, I just wanted to tell you and now... I have no regrets. Sam do you love me?"
Sam didn't know, this was happening too fast. It was true that Sam has sometimes thought of Sara as a women. It was weird though, they have grown up together for as long as he could remember. Truthfully, he remembered her more then his own parents. She was like a sister to him.
Sara took his silence as an answer
"It's okay Sam. I understand, we've been together for so long I'm probably like the big sis you never had right? It was silly for me to say these things to you, you have such a bright future laid out for you, there's no room for me in it. I didn't mean to worry you, I just wanted to leave with no regrets"

How could she smile like that? Sam clearly saw the tears in her eyes and felt powerless.
"Sara..."

For the first time Sam felt truly helpless. Is this the sense of loneliness Sara has been feeling all this time? Knowing that your fate was decided for you against your wishes, going against everything you ever dreamed of. Sam was going to grow up to be great things while Sara, she was destined for a lowly life. She never talked about the future, it seemed it seemed a topic to leave to the grownups. Is this why Sara kept her feelings to herself for so long? Was it because she didn't want to worry Sam? Sara was always outside Sam's privileged world, he got all the tools, smarts, and connections to succeed in life. She never hated Sam for his accomplishments, in fact she genuinely seemed so happy for him. Sam always thought that the Forge always knew what was best, it was why some people were put in the places they needed to be. So why did this seem so wrong?

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Question time! This one is a simple one
A)Let Sara go. She has already accepted the fate the Forge has issued her, Samuel will look for the answers on what he can do. What he must do. This will mark the end of chapter one.

B)We run away with Sara, steal a space shuttle from the station and make a run for it. This will defy the fate the Forge has issued for her and possibly cause Samuel problems with the authorities. After the escape I'll mark the end of the chapter.

Everything is proceeding as I have foreseen. My choice is A. I'll give you guys Saturday for the results.
TLDR

Spoiler

Leanna is introduced, Sara reveals her love to Sam and the need for her to leave him.

 

B. Because why not? xD.

 

Okay the vote is in and "b" is the winner. I got a bit of a stomach ache so I think I'll edit this post tomorrow afternoon so watch for that.