# Copyright (c) 2014 by Michael Zahniser
#
# Endless Sky is free software: you can redistribute it and/or modify it under the
# terms of the GNU General Public License as published by the Free Software
# Foundation, either version 3 of the License, or (at your option) any later version.
#
# Endless Sky is distributed in the hope that it will be useful, but WITHOUT ANY
# WARRANTY; without even the implied warranty of MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS FOR A
# PARTICULAR PURPOSE. See the GNU General Public License for more details.
#
# You should have received a copy of the GNU General Public License along with
# this program. If not, see <https://www.gnu.org/licenses/>.

mission "Raid Warning"
	invisible
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
	to offer
		"pirate attraction" >= 5
	on offer
		conversation
			`When you enter the <origin> spaceport, you're almost immediately stopped by a grizzled old man. "You some kinda rookie, or you asking for a death wish?" he asks.`
			choice
				`	"Excuse me?"`
					goto advice
				`	"Yeah, I'm pretty fresh. Is there something I'm doing wrong by walking in here?"`
				`	"I've been piloting for a while. I think I know what I'm doing."`
					goto think
			`	The old man chuckles. "Ain't nothing wrong with walking in here. It's what you're flying in with that's the issue.`
				goto advice
			
			label think
			`	The old man chuckles. "Well I don't think so after what I've seen.`
			
			label advice
			`	"I seen those ships of yours. That fleet is juicy pickings for pirates if I've ever seen it." You look confusedly at the man. "Oh, do I need to spell it out for you? Pirates love to take out soft targets with lots of potential cargo, and your fleet is looking pretty heavy on cargo space with hardly any defenses."`
			choice
				`	"Oh, so that's why I've been seeing pirates everywhere I go."`
				`	"So what should I do about that?"`
					goto solution
				`	"Don't you think I know that already?"`
					goto rebuff
			`	"What, you think they just had it out for you because you look funny? No, pirates have their reasons.`
			label solution
			`	"Either get yourself more guns in that fleet or get rid of some cargo space. Park your ships, sell them, doesn't matter, so long as the pirates don't see them, or you make it not worth it to try and steal whatever you might have. Pirates see a bunch of freighters flying around unprotected and they're going to take their chances. Doesn't matter if you actually have anything or not."`
			choice
				`	"Thanks for the advice."`
				`	"I'll make sure to go do that. Thanks."`
			`	"No problem. Just looking out for a fellow captain. No use in getting got because you didn't know any better. But now you do." The man gives you a firm pat on the back before walking off.`
				decline
			
			label rebuff
			`	"Sure doesn't look like it." The man gives an exaggerated shrug and starts to walk off. "Alright then, get yourself killed. Not like I used to haul cargo from one end of the galaxy to the other for fifty years or anything." The man gets further and further away, continuing to grumble about "kids these days" and other such things until you can no longer hear him.`
				decline



mission "Hunted Warning"
	invisible
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
		attributes "rim" "south" "north" "dirt belt" "core" "frontier"
	to offer
		"combat rating" > 8103
		or
			not "chosen sides"
			has "main plot completed"
	on offer
		log `Got noticed at a spaceport bar as a "famous warrior." Was warned to look out for bounty hunters or pirates hoping to make a name for themselves.`
		conversation
			`You walk into a bar in the spaceport looking for something to eat when a man sitting at a table in the corner looks up and takes notice of you. "It's Captain <last>, the famous warrior! Barkeep, give <first> a drink on my tab."`
			choice
				`	"Glad to get some recognition. I work hard out here."`
					goto recognition
				`	"Famous warrior?"`
			`	"Of course! Word travels fast in the galaxy, and word on the hyperspace lanes is that you're quite the fighter."`
			
			branch recognition
				"reputation: Republic" >= 0
				"reputation: Free Worlds" >= 0
				"reputation: Syndicate" >= 0
			
			`	"It doesn't help that you've pissed off the law, either," someone behind you says, not sounding too happy.`
			label recognition
			`	More patrons take notice of the conversation and begin chattering amongst themselves. "Quite the force to be reckoned with, I've heard," you overhear one of them mumble.`
			`	"You might want to watch your back," another says to you. "Plenty of pirates with more brains than sense might be looking to make a name for themselves by taking out such a famous captain. A person like you has to have some enemies, and you never know who might have put a price on your head. A bounty hunter could retire early on the fat purse they'd get from spacing you."`
			choice
				`	"I'll be fine. My ship is strong enough to stand against anything."`
				`	"Maybe I should go into hiding for a while."`
					goto hide
			`	"Oh, I'm sure it is. You wouldn't have gotten this notorious without being able to hold your own."`
				goto end
			label hide
			`	"You'd need to hide for more than just a while, but laying low in a small ship might help to stay off the radar of pirates and bounty hunters."`
			label end
			`	After a few more minutes of mumbling, the bar returns to like it was before you entered. The food you ordered arrives and you dig in.`
				decline

mission "Hunted"
	invisible
	landing
	repeat
	deadline 30
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
		attributes "rim" "south" "north" "dirt belt" "core" "frontier"
	to offer
		"combat rating" > 8103
		"armament deterrence" >= 2
		or
			and
				not "Hunted: active"
				"ship: Light Warship" + "ship: Medium Warship" * 2 + "ship: Heavy Warship" * 4 < 32
				random < 8
			and
				"ship: Light Warship" + "ship: Medium Warship" * 2 + "ship: Heavy Warship" * 4 >= 32 + "Hunted: active" * 4
				random < 10
		or
			not "chosen sides"
			has "main plot completed"
	# For weaker players, killing a single one of the attacking NPCs and then landing is sufficient to "complete" the mission.
	npc save
		to despawn
			or
				"armament deterrence" < 2
				"armament deterrence" >= 3
		government "Bounty Hunter"
		personality heroic unconstrained waiting nemesis plunders harvests
		system
			distance 5 5
		fleet "Bounty Hunters"
	npc save
		to despawn
			or
				"armament deterrence" < 3
				"armament deterrence" >= 4
		government "Bounty Hunter"
		personality heroic unconstrained waiting nemesis plunders harvests
		system
			distance 5 5
		fleet "Marauder fleet I"
	npc save
		to despawn
			or
				"armament deterrence" < 4
				"armament deterrence" >= 8
		government "Bounty Hunter"
		personality heroic unconstrained waiting nemesis plunders harvests
		system
			distance 5 5
		fleet "Marauder fleet IV"
	npc save
		to despawn
			or
				"armament deterrence" < 8
				"armament deterrence" >= 16
		government "Bounty Hunter"
		personality heroic unconstrained waiting nemesis plunders harvests
		system
			distance 5 5
		fleet "Marauder fleet VII"
	npc save
		to despawn
			or
				"armament deterrence" < 16
				"armament deterrence" >= 32
		government "Bounty Hunter"
		personality heroic unconstrained waiting nemesis plunders harvests
		system
			distance 5 5
		fleet "Marauder fleet X"
	# For stronger players, all attacking NPCs must be killed before the mission will be completed.
	npc kill
		to despawn
			"armament deterrence" < 32
		government "Bounty Hunter"
		personality heroic unconstrained waiting nemesis plunders harvests
		system
			distance 5 5
		fleet "Marauder fleet X" 2
	npc kill
		to despawn
			"armament deterrence" < 64
		government "Bounty Hunter"
		personality heroic unconstrained waiting nemesis plunders harvests
		system
			distance 5 5
		fleet "Marauder fleet X"



mission "Immigrant Workers"
	description "A young couple wants to start a new life on <destination>, and can pay you <payment> to bring them there. They are also bringing along <cargo>."
	minor
	passengers 2
	cargo "luggage and furniture" 2
	to offer
		random < 50
	source "New Iceland"
	destination
		not government "Pirate"
		attributes "core"
		attributes "factory" "textile"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 10000
		dialog "The young couple from <origin> pays you and thanks you profusely as they gather up their goods and depart. You wish them the best of luck in their new life on <planet>."
		log "Minor People" "George and Samantha" `George and Samantha used to work on New Iceland before they decided to leave due to Samantha's conditions.`
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you leave your ship and walk toward the cafeteria at the center of the spaceport, you notice a young couple standing near the edge of the landing area next to a cart loaded high with a jumble of boxes and furniture. Like many of the locals, they are both wearing dust masks over their mouths, and the woman is also wearing goggles.`
			choice
				`	(Talk to them.)`
				`	(Ignore them.)`
					decline
			`	The couple introduces themselves as George and Samantha. As you shake hands with them, you notice that Samantha's eyes under the goggles are rimmed in red, and she keeps coughing quietly: a dry, careful cough. George explains that they came here several years ago to take jobs in the factories, but the volcanic fumes have been giving Samantha trouble ever since they arrived. They can pay <payment> for transport for themselves and <tons> of household goods to <destination>.`
			choice
				`	(Accept.)`
				`	(Decline.)`
					decline
			`	They thank you for your assistance, and you give them a hand pushing the heavy cart into your cargo bay.`
				accept
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo and passenger on visit"



mission "Pookie, Part 1"
	minor
	name "Pookie"
	description "Travel to <destination> and meet Pookie, who is staying with her aunt and may be scared of flying."
	source "Hestia"
	destination "Shroud"
	passengers 1
	cargo "(reserved)" 1
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you walk through the spaceport, you hear a voice behind you, saying, "Excuse me, Captain." You turn around and see a woman trying to flag you down. Her hairdo is tall and somewhat confusing; her high heels are also tall and are giving her considerable trouble as she walks towards you.`
			`	"You look like the sort of captain I can trust," she says. "My darling Pookie has been visiting her aunt on Shroud, and it's time for her to come home, but she's not used to space travel and it scares her. I would feel so much better if you could go pick her up and bring her back here. Can you do that for me?" You can't help noticing that the jewelry she's wearing probably costs as much as a small fighter craft. This job sounds easy, and has the potential to be quite lucrative.`
			choice
				"	(Accept.)"
				"	(Decline.)"
					decline
			"	You tell her that you would be glad to assist, and that you can personally assure her that no harm will come to Pookie while on board your ship. She thanks you, and gives you contact information for her aunt in the <system> system."
				accept
	on visit
		dialog `You have reached <planet>, but your escort with the space reserved for Pookie has not arrived! Better depart and wait for your escorts to arrive in this star system.`



mission "Pookie, Part 2"
	name "Pookie"
	landing
	description "Return Pookie the poodle to <destination>."
	source "Shroud"
	destination "Hestia"
	passengers 1
	cargo "chew toys" 1
	to offer
		has "Pookie, Part 1: done"
	on offer
		conversation
			`You called ahead while your ship was landing and agreed to meet Pookie's aunt at the spaceport. She told you, "Meet me outside the shop with the ridiculous sheepskin coats." The shop is not hard to find; the mannequins in the window look like feral sheep with overgrown wool in bad need of grooming.`
			"	The only person standing outside the shop is a tall woman in a suit who is busy making furious marks on some sort of document with a red pen. She has a small poodle on a leash; it is busy nipping the heels of everyone who walks by."
			choice
				"	(Interrupt her.)"
					goto interrupt
				"	(Wait to see if someone else shows up.)"
					goto wait
		
			label interrupt
			`	"Excuse me," you say. She looks up at you with a withering glare. "I'm looking for someone named Pookie."`
				goto response
		
			label wait
			`	Eventually she looks up from the paper and sees you standing there. "Are you Captain <last>?" she asks. You nod.`
				goto response
		
			label response
			`	"Thank heavens," she says. "She's all yours." She hands you the leash and a large bag that appears to be full of chew toys. "Here are her toys, her food, and her... outfits. Which she hates. Feed her twice a day, or she will go berserk. Do not feed her more than twice a day, or she will throw up..."`
			`	As she continues rattling off instructions, you ask, "Wait, Pookie is the dog?"`
			`	"Short for 'Pocahontas,"' she explains. "Good luck, and I hope my sister pays you well." She walks away. There's nothing else you can do but bring Pookie back to your ship, where she immediately squats against the landing strut.`
				accept
	on visit
		dialog `You have reached <planet>, but your escort carrying Pookie has not arrived! Better depart and wait for your escorts to arrive in this star system.`
	on complete
		payment 80000
		dialog "In the past few days, Pookie has barked incessantly and thrown up several times despite being fed perfectly on schedule, and the room you've been keeping her in will likely smell like dog urine for months. You are all too happy to return her to her owner, who pays you <payment>."
		log "Minor People" "Pocahontas (Pookie)" `A dog...`



mission "Pookie, Part 3"
	minor
	name "Stray Dog"
	description `Find a home for a stray dog you picked up on <origin>. She might have been from one of the Paradise Worlds.`
	source "Freedom"
	passengers 1
	to offer
		has "Pookie, Part 2: done"
	on offer
		conversation
			`The weather on <origin> is unusually rough today; the sky ripples with thunder while rain whips against locals brave or desperate enough to stay outside. Through the mist, you see a building with neon lettering saying, "East Mesa Indoor Racing Complex: Bets are open!"`
			choice
				`	(Check it out.)`
					goto begin
				`	(Stay dry in my ship.)`
			`	You lean back in your seat and turn on your ship's heater. After a while, the neon sign shuts off, and the weather clears up.`
				decline
			label begin
			`	You wade through the mud as you approach the complex. At its entrance is a stout woman in a black uniform holding a shotgun. When she sees you, she looks at a list in her hand, before saying, "You're alright. Feel free to come in."`
			`	The inside of the racing complex is packed to capacity. Around you is a swarm of elbows and shoulders, jutting into you while you worm your way through the crowd. The sounds of rancorous conversation blend in with the pounding of rain on the roof as you glimpse a sight of the main attraction: a large, fenced-off oval. White lines inside the area form racing lanes, and arranged on the far side of the track are four cages covered with cloth.`
			`	As you reach the boundary of the track, a loud siren fills the air, causing the crowd to fall silent.`
			choice
				`	"What's going on?"`
				`	(Quietly observe.)`
					goto quiet
			`	When you try to open your mouth to speak, a hand shushes you, appearing as suddenly as it disappears.`
			label quiet
			`	The siren ends, and a greasy voice takes its place. "Welcome, one and all, to the grand biweekly hound race! Before we collect your wagers, let me introduce you to our fine racing stock for the night!"`
			`	A stagehand hops over the fence and towards the cages while the announcer continues. "Bleedbug is a veteran of the racing track. He's never taken the pole position, but perhaps this will be his lucky day!" The stagehand removes the covering of the innermost cage as a cheer rings out. The dog inside begins ferociously barking upon seeing the cacophony around him, but you can't help but notice how withered Bleedbug's body looks.`
			`	"Our second hound is one that you're all familiar with. He's an 18-time victor of the track," the voice pauses, "even if some of his wins were only by technicality." Already, a jeer is rising in the audience. The announcer says, "It's the hound that you don't want to beat: Doom." The booing reaches a peak as the stagehand takes the cover off of the largest cage of the lineup, revealing a gargantuan hound. Doom's body is finely defined, devoid of his competitor's malnutrition. As soon as he sets his eyes on Doom, Bleedbug stops yelling and retreats to the corner of his cage to whimpering. Pleased at his reputation, Doom lets out a thunderous bark.`
			choice
				`	(Join in with the booing.)`
				`	(Stay silent.)`
					goto shush
			`	You pump your fists into the air and join in on the jeering until you are interrupted by the announcer speaking.`
				goto second
			label shush
			`	You silently observe the crowd's boos die when the announcer continues speaking.`
			label second
			`	"Now, our other two racers for the day are all-new." A murmur of anticipation sweeps through the audience. "Our first newcomer is a fine lady. Rumored to be from the wilderness of Zenith, can everyone put their hands together for Zinc!" The cover over the third cage is taken off to reveal a creature that is clearly not a dog. Her long, gray fur and piercing, golden eyes mark her as a far more graceful and feral beast, though underneath her coat, you spot atrophied muscles. Zinc initially stands unfazed by the crowd and the other dogs, calmly observing her surroundings. When Doom spots the wolf ignoring him, he begins to bark louder and louder, until she abruptly stares at him with an inscrutable expression.`
			`	"Our final contestant for the day is a most... unorthodox choice. The merchant who graciously donated her to us came with a most fascinating story. She said that the hound comes from the Paradise Worlds, and her owner wanted the pet to have a luxury flight to her holiday home. Well, let's see if she can pay her way to victory here, folks." The audience snickers. "Now, give your best welcomes to Puny!" Puny is easily the frailest of the dogs, barely more than skin and bones. White whispers of hair clump around her head, chest, and ankles, and the bottom of her cage is wet. None of the other racers acknowledge her, but the crowd is rearing to volley a variety of curses and slurs at her, as though an actual Paradise World baron was in the cage. As you look at the poodle, you can't help but feel a strange sense of familiarity.`
			`	You feel your back get nudged, and turn to see a woman dressed in rags holding four buckets filled with credits. The names of the racers are crudely written on each of them. "Betting is 3,000 credits," she says unusually sweetly.`
			choice
				`	(Bet on Bleedbug.)`
				`	(Bet on Doom.)`
				`	(Bet on Zinc.)`
				`	(Bet on Puny.)`
				`	"I'll pass."`
					goto "no bet"
			branch "not poor"
				"credits" >= 3000
			`	You dig through your pockets for a credit chip to toss into the bucket, until you realize that you don't have enough money to make a bet. Impatient with your bumbling, the woman turns to take money from a person next to you.`
				goto next
			label "not poor"
			action
				set "bet on hound racing"
				payment -3000
			`	You toss a chip into the bucket, and the woman eagerly turns towards a person next to you.`
				goto next
			label "no bet"
			`	The woman turns to take bets from a person next to you.`
			label next
			`	After several minutes pass, the siren sounds, and the announcer speaks again. "Once again, we at the East Mesa Racing Complex give our thanks to everyone who supports our cause by participating in betting. Now, without further ado..."`
			`	A red light on the ceiling turns on, and the audience shouts, "Three!" A second one lights up. "Two!" A third light, this time yellow, turns on. "One!"`
			`	A green light appears, and the crowd descends into chaos as the cage doors open.`
			`	The first to move is Bleedbug, desperate to get as far away from Doom as possible. Doom himself has his eyes set on a different target. As soon as the doors open, he rushes over the lane lines towards Zinc and bares his teeth for a bite. Anticipating this, Zinc dodges beneath the attack, and lunges in with her mouth open. Doom responds to the threat by lowering his head and bashing into her, and the two animals are quickly locked into a brutal mess of teeth and blood. The crowd goes wild at the spectacle unfolding before them as the brawl approaches your section of the fence.`
			choice
				`	(Continue watching.)`
				`	(Get away.)`
					goto leave
			`	Looking on, you are suddenly thrown backward when the beasts smash into the fence in front of you. Lying on the ground, you look down and see Zinc and Doom tearing into each other outside of the track, inches from your feet.`
			choice
				`	(Get up and back away.)`
					goto live
				`	(Lie still.)`
			`	As you lie still, Zinc is kicked on top of you, and Doom dashes in to continue the brawl. Within seconds, your skin is ripped to ribbons by two animals too deep in bloodlust to notice that another body has joined the fray. You bleed out on the floor as the crowd cheers at the slaughter of a fellow human.`
				die
			label live
			`	You scramble to your feet, barely dodging Zinc as she's kicked back by Doom. As the two animals howl in pain, you push your way through the onlooking crowd, hoping to escape the danger. After getting some distance away, you turn back to see Zinc and Doom continuing to go at each other's throats.`
				goto next2
			label leave
			`	You turn and head away from the fence. Moments later, you hear two cries of pain accompanying the sound of wood splintering. Peeking back, you see that Zinc and Doom are fighting outside the track, with the crowd raving at the sight of violence.`
			label next2
			choice
				`	(Stay and watch.)`
				`	(Leave the building.)`
					goto nope
			`	You look on at the duel, as does the rest of the building. The crowd has already taken sides, with some shouting Zinc's name and others shouting Doom's. Doom initially appears to have the upper hand, ramming himself into Zinc with impunity as she is sent sprawling. However, when Doom goes in for another tackle, Zinc dashes in and sinks her teeth into his neck. His roars of pain diminish into whimpers as blood spills readily on the complex's floor.`
			`	Suddenly, a gunshot rings out throughout the building. The two beasts fall over as the stagehand steps forward holding a shotgun. The crowd is left in silence for a moment, until they start to jeer and boo, angered by the unsatisfying end to the duel. The stagehand responds by pointing his gun up and firing again. "That's enough!" he yells. "If you freaks want your bloodsports, then go to the gladiator stadium, or a cockfighting ring. But this establishment will not support such degeneracy!" The crowd goes quiet, but out of the corner of your eye, you see some mean-faced figures reach into their pockets.`
			choice
				`	(Get out before it gets ugly.)`
					goto "nope late"
				`	(Stay for a while longer.)`
			`	Continuing to look on, you hear a loud bang to your right as the stagehand gasps in pain and collapses. You turn to see that a mustached man next to you has his gun raised. Before you can react, you hear another gunshot and see a spurt of blood erupt from the man's temple. Almost instantly, the entire audience is up in arms as gunfire comes in from every direction. Acting instinctually, you duck down and crawl through the forest of legs towards the exit. Once there, you reach your hand up and push the door open before running out.`
				goto outside
			label "nope late"
			`	As you turn around, you hear a volley of gunshots from behind, and decide to run out of the building, tackling the door open.`
				goto outside
			label nope
			`	You head towards the exit, pushing aside audience members completely captivated by the fight. Flinging the door open, you hear a gunshot from behind, and decide to run out.`
			label outside
			`	As you step outside, you are greeted by sheets of rain lashing you. The strength of the torrent almost causes you to fall backwards, but you manage to steady yourself. You take a glance back at the racing complex to find that the guard in the black uniform is missing. You turn to begin the trek back to your ship, but halfway there, you feel something touch your lower leg.`
			choice
				`	(Turn around.)`
					goto turner
				`	(Run away.)`
			`	You begin to run, but slip in the mud and fall on your face. You roll over to come face-to-face with a dour-looking dog eyeing you. Sitting up, you recognize the poodle as Puny, who must have snuck out of the complex during all the commotion. As you get off of the ground, Puny looks up at you with puppy-dog eyes.`
				goto kindly
			label turner
			`	You turn around and come face-to-face with a dour-looking dog looking up at you with puppy-dog eyes. Inspecting it, you recognize the poodle as Puny, who must have snuck out of the complex during all the commotion.`
			label kindly
			choice
				`	(Pet her.)`
				`	(Shoo her.)`
					goto shoo
			`	You crouch down and rub the soggy tufts of hair on Puny's head. As you continue, a smile creeps onto her face, beaming in spite of the soaking rain. You think about what to do with her.`
			choice
				`	(Bring Puny aboard your ship.)`
				`	(Shoo Puny off.)`
					goto shoo
			branch remember
				has "bet on hound racing"
			`	You pick up Puny and carry her onboard. As you dry yourselves, you think back to what the announcer said about Puny being owned by someone from the Paradise Worlds, and wonder where you might be able to drop her off.`
				accept
			label remember
			`	You pick up Puny and carry her onboard. As you dry yourselves, you think back to what the announcer said about Puny being owned by someone from the Paradise Worlds, and wonder where you might be able to drop her off.`
			`	As you step into the cockpit, you recall the bet you put on the hound race. Looks like you won't be getting your money back.`
				accept
			label shoo
			branch "remember decline"
				has "bet on hound racing"
			`	You wiggle your leg around to scare Puny off. She runs into the mist, vanishing from sight. You turn back and manage to reach your ship, changing into a dry set of clothes.`
				decline
			label "remember decline"
			`	You wiggle your leg around to scare Puny off. She runs into the mist, vanishing from sight. You turn back and manage to reach your ship, changing into a dry set of clothes.`
			`	As you step into the cockpit, you recall the bet you put on the hound race. Looks like you won't be getting your money back.`
				decline
	to complete
		never



mission "Pookie, Part 4"
	repeat
	landing
	source
		attributes "paradise"
		not planet "Hestia"
	to offer
		has "Pookie, Part 3: active"
	on offer
		conversation
			branch repeat
				has "Pookie, Part 4: offered"
			`After landing on <origin>, you look for a way to reach as many people on the planet as possible in order to find Puny's owner. One of the receptionists at a planetary information desk says that she can put out a notice for a lost dog on a planetwide notice board, if you're able to put in a detailed enough description of Puny. You describe the poodle's appearance to the best of your abilities, and also mention how she was traveling for a vacation when she was abducted.`
			`	When you check back with the receptionist the next morning, she tells you that nobody has approached the offer.`
				decline
			label repeat
			`You put a description of Puny on a planetwide notice board. By the time the next day arrives, you've received no offers in response.`
				decline



mission "Pookie, Part 5"
	landing
	source "Hestia"
	to offer
		has "Pookie, Part 3: active"
	on offer
		fail "Pookie, Part 3"
		conversation
			branch repeat
				has "Pookie, Part 4: offered"
			`When you land on <origin>, you look for a way to reach as many people on the planet as possible in order to find Puny's owner. One of the receptionists at a planetary information desk says that she can put out a notice for a lost dog on a planetwide notice board, if you're able to put in a detailed enough description of Puny. You describe the poodle's appearance to the best of your abilities, and also mention how she was meant to be transported to a vacation location before being abducted.`
				goto next
			label repeat
			`You approach a receptionist to put a description of Puny on a planetwide notice board.`
			label next
			`	The next day, you visit the receptionist. When she sees you, she tells you that one message came in response, saying that the dog was theirs. You copy the address provided and hail down a taxi.`
			`	The address brings you to a stark white mansion upon a cliff overlooking the ocean. A path snakes down from the entrance of the mansion to a large, gold-plated gate. You bring Puny out from the taxi and ring the doorbell next to the gate. A minute later, a servant in a prim suit approaches. As soon as she sees him, Puny straightens up, holding her head high.`
			choice
				`	"I'm <first>, and I'm here to return a missing pet."`
				`	(Wait quietly.)`
					goto inside
			`	The servant says, "Ah, you're the one with the dog. Come inside, mistress has been expecting you."`
				goto enter
			label inside
			`	When he spots you, the servant says, "Welcome. Come inside, mistress has been expecting you."`
			label enter
			`	The walk to the front of the house is arduous; you pass through several different stadium-sized gardens along the way, each dedicated to a different type of biome. Looking up at the sky, you see the remnants of clouds contort unnaturally around invisible pillars. As you follow the servant, he looks back at you repeatedly, checking that you're still following. You decide to look behind yourself, and see Puny eagerly following. She has somewhat recovered from her time on Freedom, but her body is still little more than skin and bone.`
			`	By the time you reach the mansion, your skin is slightly sunburnt. The servant walks up to the oddly tall door and presses the doorbell before moving to the side, hands folded behind his back. The bell is answered by a woman with a monstrous hairdo, barely able to fit in the doorway. Puny breaks into barking as soon as she sees her, but the woman ignores the barking and says, "Walters, who is this?"`
			`	"It's the captain who put out a description of Pookie, Madam Pemefrey," the servant replies.`
			`	When she hears this, Pemefrey's expression changes from annoyance to elation. "Really? Oh, I can't thank enough for this, dearie. How was it rescuing her? Did you have to barter with smugglers to track her down? Chase down kidnappers to free her? Battle with warlords for her safety?"`
			choice
				`	"It was an adventure and a half saving her."`
				`	"It wasn't anything too hard."`
					goto humble
				`	"Wait, did you say Pookie?"`
					goto rude
			`	"I'm sure it was. Now, where's my darling Pookie?"`
				goto show
			label humble
			`	"Oh. Well, where's my darling Pookie?"`
				goto show
			label rude
			`	Pemefrey chuckles haughtily. "Of course? Why, did you not realize that the purebred you saved is none other than the great Pocahontas? Now, show me my darling."`
			label show
			`	You pick up Puny and show her to the lady. When she makes eye contact with the poodle, her face contorts with anger. "What do you take me for, some kind of Dirt Belter?"`
			choice
				`	"Hey, I'm from the Dirt Belt!"`
				`	"What do you mean?"`
					goto explain
				`	"I'm sorry?"`
					goto sorry
			`	She tosses her head to the side. "Then I mean it twice as much!"`
				goto explain
			label sorry
			`	She hisses. "If you wanted to be sorry, then you should never have tried to trick me in the first place!"`
			label explain
			`	Pemefrey thrusts an accusing finger at Puny. "My dog would never be as scruffy, as ugly, as this mutt! You are trying to deceive me by picking some mongrel off of the street and claiming it as mine!"`
			`	Walters walks up to his master, saying, "But Madam, how could this captain provide such an accurate description of how Pookie was abducted if-"`
			`	Pemefrey snaps her head to look back at her servant. "Walters! I thought you were on my side!" She holds her hands on her chest. "It would be such a shame if you ruined our friendship like this. Why, I wouldn't be able to bear to keep you around if you betrayed me like that."`
			`	Walters shoots a desperate glance at you while stepping back, but otherwise says nothing.`
			`	"Now, where was I... oh, right. You. Out. Now." She claps twice, jumping Walters to attention, who beckons you and Puny back to the gate of the mansion.`
			`	You slam the door of the taxi shut as Walters locks the gate. The return journey is somewhat somber, with even Puny wearing a frown. When you look back up from Puny, you find yourself in a far more humble region of <origin>. The grandiose manors built into impossible locations are far distant, replaced with a small suburban town that would not look out of place in the Dirt Belt were it not for the picturesque mountain ranges surrounding it.`
			`	While this town is less wealthy than the neighboring estates, it is still unmistakably on a Paradise World, with the street lamps scrubbed and polished to a wasteful degree. As you pass through the commercial district, your eyes catch a sign that says "Antette and Co. Animal Adoption Agency."`
			choice
				`	(Investigate.)`
				`	(Ignore the sign.)`
					goto lazy
			label within
			`	You tell the taxi driver to stop the car and you walk into the adoption center, leading Puny behind you.`
			`	The inside of the agency is decorated with pale blue wallpaper. To either side of you are rows of plastic chairs, and in front of you is a receptionist looking down at his nails. When he notices you, he lazily says, "Welcome, welcome. What can I do for you."`
			`	You point down at Puny and say, "Could you find a home for this dog?"`
			`	The receptionist leans over the counter to look. "Wow, that's a sorry-looking puppy. What's her name?"`
			choice
				`	"It's Puny."`
					goto unfortunate
				`	"It's Pookie."`
				`	"I don't know."`
					goto figure
			`	"That's a nice name." The receptionist steps forward to pick up the poodle before saying, "We'll make sure Pookie gets plenty of care and love. Thank you for bringing her to us."`
				goto end
			label unfortunate
			`	The receptionist winces. "That's... I'm sure we can come up with something better." He steps forward to pick up the poodle before saying, "We'll make sure she gets plenty of care and love. Thank you for bringing her to us."`
				goto end
			label figure
			`	"Well, I'm sure we'll figure out a name for her eventually." The receptionist steps forward to pick up the poodle before saying, "We'll make sure she gets plenty of care and love. Thank you for bringing her to us."`
			label end
			action
				log `Saved a dog from a hound-racing ring, and tried to give her a home. However, her alleged owner rejected her. Eventually decided to give her up for adoption.`
				log `Minor People` `Puny` `A poodle who was a former racer in a gambling ring. She might secretly be Pookie.`
			`	You exit the center and head back to your taxi for the rest of the trip back to the spaceport.`
				decline
			label lazy
			action
				log `Saved a dog from a hound-racing ring, and tried to give her a home. However, her alleged owner rejected her. Eventually decided to keep her.`
				outfit "Puny"
			`	You lean back in your seat as the taxi passes through the town without interruption. Not long after you find yourself back in the spaceport, with Puny still in your care. With nowhere else to go, you decide to bring Puny aboard your ship. As you lead her, she happily strolls up the landing ramp and settles into one of your bunks.`
				decline



mission "Smuggler's Den, Part 1"
	name "Refugees to <planet>"
	description "Joe and Maria, a young couple with a newborn baby, want to escape slavery and start a new life on <destination>."
	minor
	source "Smuggler's Den"
	destination "Arabia"
	passengers 2
	on offer
		conversation
			`You wander into one of several dimly lit, smoke-filled bars near your docking bay. Soon after you sit down, a pair of hooded figures stand up and begin moving toward you. They aren't carrying any visible weapons, but on a station like this one there's a good chance that everyone you meet has a concealed gun. One of them is carrying a bundle wrapped in cloth. You can't see their faces.`
			choice
				`	(Get out of here.)`
				`	(Wait and see what they want.)`
					goto meet
			
			`	You've heard too many stories of kidnappings and murders on this station to be willing to take any risks. You quickly get up and leave the bar, and walk down the passageway back toward your ship. Glancing behind you, you see that the hooded figures have decided not to follow you.`
				decline
			
			label meet
			`	The hooded figures turn out to be a boy and a girl, both perhaps thirteen or fourteen years old. The bundle in the girl's arms is a baby. "Are you a captain?" the boy asks.`
			`	"Yes," you say.`
			`	"We're looking for passage off-world," he says. "My cousin works in the refineries on Arabia, and I'm hoping he can get me a job there."`
			choice
				`	"I don't want to be involved in anything illegal. Are you in some sort of trouble with the law?"`
					goto legal
				`	"Well, how much would you be able to pay me?"`
					goto payment
			
			label legal
			`	The boy grins. "No, not at all. I mean, aside from the fact that we're pirates."`
			`	Seeing the incredulous look on your face, the girl says, "Members of a pirate gang. Crew on a pirate ship. Captains are usually older, but most of the pirate ships you see out there are crewed by kids like us. It's a hard place to grow up. We want something better for our daughter."`
				goto search
			
			label payment
			`	They are silent for a long moment, looking down at the table. Finally, the boy says, "We're crew on a pirate ship, hardly better than slaves. The captain keeps our wages. We don't get paid anything unless they agree to let us go. But if you help us start a new life, we'll work hard and some day we'll pay you back."`
			`	The girl adds, "You don't know what it's like for a little girl to grow up on a pirate ship. We want something better than that for our daughter."`
			
			label search
			`	As you are conversing a bearded man and a rough-looking teenage boy enter the bar and begin looking around the room. "That's our captain," she says. "Please, you have to help us. There's a service tunnel that connects to the back entrance of the bar. We can escape through there."`
			`	You've heard of these service passageways: the most dangerous part of this lawless station, dimly lit and seldom traveled, except by drug addicts and prostitutes. This whole thing might just be a ruse to lure you into one, where they can attack you without anyone interfering. "No," says the boy, "if we head for the service tunnel, they'll be sure to notice us. Let's just stay at the table until they go away."`
			`	The baby begins to cry, softly, and she bounces it gently, trying desperately to quiet it. "Shh. Shh." For the moment, it falls silent.`
			choice
				`	(Try the service tunnel.)`
					goto tunnel
				`	(Wait.)`
					goto outside
				`	"I'm sorry, this isn't worth risking my life for. I'm leaving."`
	
			`	You stand up and leave. The men in the doorway make no effort to stop you.`
				decline
			
			label tunnel
			`	The boy stands up. "Wait ten seconds, then head to the tunnel," he says. He walks into the bathroom, which is right next to the back entrance that she pointed out. You wait for a few seconds, then stand up. "Don't run," says the girl. "Walk slowly. Pretend. You've had a bit too much to drink. We're headed out back to find some privacy." You don't dare look behind you to see if the men in the doorway are watching you.`
			`	Finally, you reach the back entrance, and she spins the wheel to unlock it. The hinges squeal, but it opens enough for you to squeeze through. You find yourselves in a narrow corridor lit only by flickering sodium lamps. In the yellow lamplight her face and hands look pale, jaundiced. The floor of the corridor is littered with beer bottles and discarded hypodermic needles. To one side of the door are several over-stuffed trash cans. As you step into the corridor, a rat scurries away into the darkness.`
			`	A few seconds later, watching through the open airlock, you see the boy walk out of the bathroom. He can't help stealing a quick glance towards the men in the doorway, after which he quickly ducks through the airlock and slams the door shut. "Run!" he whispers.`
			`	You begin running down the corridor, in the direction of your ship. You pass a man, slumped over in a corner; there is no time to see if he is dead, or just sleeping. In places the lights have gone out, and it is so dim that you can barely see the floor beneath you. Your footsteps pounding on the metal decking ring terribly loud up and down the empty hallway.`
			`	Eventually the passageway widens out into a maintenance room, full of humming equipment and large tanks. You duck behind one of them and listen for sounds of pursuit. "I think we're safe," says the boy. He walks over to another airlock door on the opposite wall and tugs it open. Light pours in, almost blinding at first. You are looking out into the rimway, the main passage in this ring of the station. Crowds of people are walking past, paying no attention to you. He glances quickly in both directions, then gestures for you to follow.`
				goto ship
			
			label outside
			`	You wait at the table, pretending that you are busy placing a drink order. The men at the door do not leave. Instead, they step into the room and begin circling around the edge of it. "What berth is your ship in?" asks the boy. You tell him. "Wait ten seconds, then follow," he says. He stands up and walks through the door. The searchers glance at him as he leaves, but they must be looking for two people together, because they ignore him.`
			`	The searchers approach the bar and begin talking to one of the bartenders. You and the girl stand up. "Walk slowly," she hisses under her breath. "Saunter. Don't run." You put an arm around her shoulders and do your best to act like an ordinary bar patron headed home with a new friend after having a bit too much to drink. You don't dare to glance at the bar to see if you are being watched.`
			`	Finally you reach the door. You are in the rimway, the main passage in this ring of the station. It is crowded and brightly lit. You quicken your pace slightly and begin walking toward your ship, still afraid that if you break into a run, you will attract attention. The girl keeps glancing at the shop windows that you pass by: checking the reflection to see if anyone is following you. "They're leaving the bar," she says. And then, "They're walking in the other direction. I think we're safe."`
			`	You pass a narrow doorway, probably an entrance to one of the service tunnels. The boy is standing there, holding a gun by his side. His grim expression softens somewhat when he sees you approaching.`
				goto ship
			
			label ship
			`	You quickly make your way back to your ship. As soon as the door has closed behind you, all three of you breathe a sigh of relief. A second later, the baby begins to wail, loudly. As you show them to their bunks, they introduce themselves as Joe and Maria; the baby's name is Jesse. "I don't know how to thank you," says Maria.`
			`	"Please don't take too long leaving the station," adds Joe. "But, I think we'll be safe here until you're ready to leave. There's no way they can search all the ships at the dock."`
				accept
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet> and look for Joe and Maria, but you realize that they were in one of your escorts that has not yet entered the system. Better depart and wait for them.`



mission "Smuggler's Den, Part 2"
	landing
	name "Refugees to <planet>"
	description "Unable to find work on <origin>, Joe and Maria want to travel to <destination> to see if they can get a job there."
	destination "Millrace"
	passengers 2
	to offer
		has "Smuggler's Den, Part 1: done"
	on offer
		conversation
			`As soon as you have landed, Joe finds a computer terminal and tries to look up his cousin who works here, but with no success. You go with him to the company office, where after a short wait you are ushered in to meet with a foreman. After Joe introduces himself, the man says, "I'm really sorry to tell you this, but Leroy died in a refinery fire several months ago."`
			`	Joe is crestfallen. After a long silence, you say, "Sir, do you have any work available for Joe? He and his family were hoping to be able to put down roots here."`
			`	"I'm sorry," says the foreman, "but we've had a ton of immigrants recently. The waiting list for new jobs is about five months long. They could stay here and hope for the best, but if they need work right away, they would be better off going to one of the Syndicate worlds, like <planet>."`
			choice
				`	(Volunteer to take them to <planet>.)`
				`	(Leave them here and hope for the best.)`
					decline
			
			`	Despite his shock and grief, Joe is quite grateful. "You know we can't pay you, right?"`
			`	"Don't worry about it," you say. You return to your ship and tell the bad news to Maria.`
				accept
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet> and look for Joe and Maria, but you realize that they were in one of your escorts that has not yet entered the system. Better depart and wait for them.`
	on complete
		event "smuggler's den: payment" 365
		log `Helped two teens named Joe and Maria and their daughter Jesse to escape their pirate captain. Dropped them off on Millrace where they'll start a new life.`
		conversation
			`You help Joe and Maria, and their daughter Jesse, to carry their few belongings down to the immigration desk, where a clerk lists the job openings available and asks them each to fill out a skill survey. Maria says, "Captain <last>, I don't know how to thank you, but I promise you that once we've got steady jobs, we'll save up and pay you our fare for transporting us here."`
			`	You wish them the best of luck, and return to your ship.`

event "smuggler's den: payment"



mission "Smuggler's Den: Payment"
	landing
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Quarg" "Neutral"
		near Sol 100
	to offer
		has "event: smuggler's den: payment"
	
	on offer
		payment 35000
		conversation
			`When you land, you are surprised to find a message waiting for you from Joe and Maria, the young couple you transported from Smuggler's Den to Millrace a year ago to help them and their baby escape their lives as pirate crew members. "Dear Captain <last>," they write, "we promised you we would save up enough money to pay you back for transporting us. Attached is <payment>. Thank you for giving us a chance at a new life." They've also enclosed a picture of themselves and their baby Jesse, who is now more than a year old.`
				decline



mission "Smuggler's Den: Follow Up"
	invisible
	landing
	source Millrace
	to offer
		has "Smuggler's Den: Payment: offered"
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you're coming in for a landing, you realize that Millrace is where Joe and Maria live, the couple you transported from Smuggler's Den. They recently wrote to you thanking you for helping them to begin a new life. Do you want to stop by and see how they are doing?`
			choice
				`	(Yes.)`
				`	(No.)`
					decline
			`	You contact Joe and Maria and they say they would definitely enjoy seeing you. On your way to the workers' barracks where they live, you stop by a small store and buy some chocolate, plus bread and fresh fruit and some canned goods you think they would be able to use. They thank you for coming and welcome you into their home. Jesse is continuing to grow up, and they have another baby too, now. Joe says the work in the factories is exhausting, and the hours are long, but they never need to worry about where their next meal will come from, or what they'll be required to do to earn it. You leave feeling very glad that you have been able to make such a difference in someone's life.`
				accept
				
	on accept
		log `Visited Joe and Maria on Millrace. Life is tough, but they are doing far better now than they were on a pirate ship. Jesse has grown and the couple already has another baby to look after.`
		log "Minor People" "Joe and Maria" `Two teenagers who were under the employs of pirates, the couple wanted your aid with an escape from their lives and after a time have informed you that they are now living in relative peace where you left them on Millrace.`
		fail



mission "Expedition to Hope 1"
	name "Expedition to Hope"
	description "Transport a team of <bunks> scientists to the abandoned world of <planet>, where they will be placing <tons> of meteorological equipment. Payment will be 80,000 credits."
	minor
	source
		near Wei 2 8
		attributes "dirt belt"
	destination Hope
	to offer
		random < 40
	cargo "scientific equipment" 4
	passengers 4
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`A group of <bunks> scientists approaches you and asks if you would be willing to take them and <cargo> to the abandoned planet of Hope, and then back home from there. "The transport we'd arranged for bailed out on us at the last moment," says their leader, a middle-aged man wearing thick-rimmed glasses. "We have 80,000 credits allocated for payment."`
			choice
				`	"Sure, I'd be glad to help."`
					goto yes
				`	"What sort of research are you doing?"`
				`	"Sorry, I don't have space for you."`
					decline
			`	"You probably know about the supervolcano that forced the evacuation of Hope some decades ago," he says. "My family lived on Hope back then. We want to measure how much ash is still in the air, to see how long it will be before the glaciers recede and the planet is habitable again."`
			choice
				`	"That sounds like a worthy cause. I'd be glad to transport you."`
					goto yes
				`	"Sorry, I'm not going to be headed in that direction any time soon."`
					decline
			label yes
			`	"Thank you," he says. You help them to load their meteorological equipment onto your ship.`
				accept
	
	on visit
		dialog `You enter the atmosphere of <planet>, but realize that the scientists and their equipment were on one of your escorts who hasn't entered the system yet. Better depart and wait for them.`
	on complete
		payment 40000



mission "Expedition to Hope 2"
	landing
	name "Expedition to Hope"
	description "Transport the team of <bunks> scientists home to <destination>, to receive the second half of payment."
	source Hope
	destination
		distance 2 5
		government Republic "Free Worlds" Neutral
	clearance
	to offer
		has "Expedition to Hope 1: done"
	passengers 4
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`You fly around the planet to several different sites that the scientists have identified as good places for their equipment. They also make some deep radar scans of the glaciers. "That's my old house, down there," says one of the scientists, pointing to the radar picture of one of the buried villages. "Under thirty meters of ice, now."`
			`	The lead scientist hands you forty thousand credits, and says, "Here's the first part of your payment. Now we need to get home to <planet>. I'll pay you the rest once we get there."`
				accept
	
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but realize that the scientists and their equipment were on one of your escorts who hasn't entered the system yet. Better depart and wait for them.`
	on complete
		payment 40000
		dialog `You drop the team of scientists off on <planet>. They thank you for helping them out, and pay you <payment>.`



mission "Transport Workers A"
	name "Transport Family"
	description "Transport a family of <bunks>, as well as <cargo>, to <destination>, where they hope that steady work will be easier to come by. Payment is <payment>."
	minor
	source
		attributes "dirt belt"
	destination
		government "Syndicate"
		attributes "factory"
	to offer
		random < 5
	passengers 4
	cargo "household goods" 2
	
	on offer
		dialog `In one of the corners of the spaceport, you meet a family with two kids, and a pile of trunks and boxes spread out next to them. They tell you that they are trying to book passage to <planet>. "Work has gotten way too hard to come by here," explains the father. "I've had seven different jobs in the past year, and none of them lasted more than a month. So we thought we'd try our luck on a Syndicate world. We can pay you <payment> for the trouble."`
	
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo and passenger on visit"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 20000
		dialog `You drop off the family from <origin>, and wish them the best of luck on <planet>. They seem optimistic, and their kids are still quite excited about having taken their first ever space journey. You're sure that they will be remembering this trip for years to come. Their parents thank you, and pay you <payment>.`



mission "Transport Workers B"
	name "Transport Worker"
	description `This young man is headed to the factories on <destination>. He says he wants to save enough money to be able to ask his "true love" to marry him.`
	minor
	source
		attributes "dirt belt"
	destination "Maker"
	to offer
		random < 5
	passengers 1
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you are walking through the spaceport, a young man approaches you and says, "Excuse me, Captain. Is there any chance you're traveling towards the Core?" He's probably in his late teens, barely more than a kid.`
			choice
				`	"I'm sure I could work that into my plans. Where are you headed?"`
				`	"You're traveling all by yourself? You aren't in any trouble, I hope?"`
				`	"Sorry, I don't expect to be headed that way any time soon."`
					decline
			`	"Well, here's the story," he says. "My girlfriend's father won't let us get married until I have some money saved up. They say there's plenty of jobs to be had on <planet>. So I'm headed there to put down roots and get myself established, then in a year or two she can come and join me. Don't worry, I have <payment> that I can give to you."`
			choice
				`	"I'd be glad to take you there."`
					goto thanks
				`	"Are you sure about that? I've heard some bad things about the Syndicate's company towns."`
					goto towns
				`	"Do you really think she's going to wait around for you?"`
					goto wait
			label towns
			`	"Me too," he says, "but it's a lifetime of steady work, and you know how hard that is to come by in this part of the galaxy. Can you help me out?"`
				goto choice
			label wait
			`	"She'll be true to me," he says, with absolute confidence.`
				goto choice
			label choice
			choice
				`	"Okay, I'll take you to <planet>."`
					goto thanks
				`	"Sorry, I'm not headed in that direction."`
					decline
			label thanks
			`	"Thank you, Captain," he says, shaking your hand. You bring him aboard your ship and show him to one of the empty bunks.`
				accept
	
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo and passenger on visit"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 10000
		log `Transported a teenage boy to Maker so that he can work to marry his girlfriend.`
		dialog `You drop off the young man from <origin> who is hoping to find work and save enough money for his girlfriend to join him. "Good luck," you say. "Be wise. Don't let yourself get into debt." He thanks you, and pays you <payment>.`



mission "Transport Workers C"
	name "Farming Family"
	description "Transport this family of <bunks> farmers and <tons> of livestock, to <destination>. Payment is <payment>."
	minor
	source
		attributes "dirt belt"
		attributes "farming"
	destination
		government "Syndicate"
		attributes "farming"
	to offer
		random < 15
	passengers 5
	cargo "farm animals" 10
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`On the dirt near your landing pad is parked a large wagon, hitched to a draft horse and loaded down with furniture and various farming implements. A family is gathered in the shade of the cart, and several goats and sheep are tied up behind it.`
			choice
				`	(Approach the farmers.)`
				`	(I'm not interested in carrying livestock in my shiny new space ship.)`
					defer
			`	The farmers introduce themselves as Jim and Annette Patterson; their kids are Erin, Kyle, and Sarah. "Any chance you've got space for <tons> of livestock?" asks Jim. "The droughts the last few years have been fierce, and we're hoping to start a new homestead on <planet>. We have <payment> saved for payment."`
			choice
				`	"Sure, I'd be glad to take you there."`
					accept
				`	"Sorry, that's way too far from here."`
					decline
	
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo and passenger on visit"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 10000
		dialog `You drop off the Pattersons, the farm family from <origin>, and help them to unload their wagon and cattle from your cargo hold. They thank you, and Jim pays you <payment>.`
		log "Minor People" "Jim and Annette Patterson" `An unusual family who needed you to make a very unconventional trip with a sizable number of farm animals that had to be kept happy in an enclosed area of your spaceship.`



mission "WR Star 1"
	name "Star Research"
	description "Fly through the <waypoints> system with a team of <bunks> scientists and <cargo>, then return them to <destination>."
	minor
	source
		attributes "deep"
		attributes "urban" "research"
	waypoint "Ildaria"
	to offer
		random < 20
	passengers 3
	cargo "sensors" 2
	on offer
		dialog `A group of <bunks> scientists approaches you and asks if you will be headed to the Rim any time soon. "We're doing research on Wolf-Rayet stars," they explain, "and we're hoping to find a captain who can do a flyby of <waypoints>." Scientific research in the Deep is notoriously well-funded, so they will probably pay you quite well.`
	on waypoint
		dialog `The team of scientists unpacks their equipment and takes some measurements of the star. Before long they inform you they are ready to go home.`
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic missing waypoint or cargo and passengers"
	on complete
		payment 250000
		dialog `The team of scientists thanks you for bringing them to <waypoints> and back, and pays you <payment>. They seem eager to get back to their lab and start analyzing their measurements.`



mission "There Might Be Riots 1"
	name "Transport band to <planet>"
	description `Give the band "There Might Be Riots" a ride to <destination>.`
	minor
	source
		near Tarazed 5 10
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Neutral"
	destination "Wayfarer"
	cargo "musical equipment" 4
	passengers 8
	to offer
		random < 15
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`A woman in a well-tailored suit approaches you. "Captain <last>?" You nod. "Are you available for a transport job?" she asks.`
			choice
				`	"What is it?"`
				`	"Not right now."`
					defer
			`	"My name is Becca," she says. "I'm a stage manager for a band, and the transport we had under contract bailed out on us. Any chance you could take <fare> and <tons> of cargo to <destination>? Given the circumstances, we can pay quite well."`
			choice
				`	"Sure!"`
				`	"Sorry, I'm not headed in that direction right now."`
					decline
			`	"Great," she says, "I'll tell the boys to start loading their gear into your ship." About a half an hour later the road crew begins carting instruments and amplifiers into your cargo hold. Soon after that, you hear the roar of a crowd in the distance and another group of men comes running into your ship. "We're with the band," they say. "Quick, shut the hatch." Half a minute later, a mob of people has surrounded your ship and a few of them are even climbing on top of it. It takes you a second to realize they're not angry or bent on destruction - they're just a group of crazy fans.`
			`	"Happens everywhere we go," says one of the musicians, calmly, as he watches a video feed of the mob on one of your monitors. He tells you that he's Ulrich, the lead singer. Then he introduces the rest of the singers and musicians.`
			choice
				`	"Pleased to meet you all. What's the name of your band?"`
			`	"Oh," Ulrich says, "we call ourselves, 'There Might Be Riots.'"`
			`	Eventually, the spaceport police arrive and disperse the crowd, and the band settles in for their trip to <destination>.`
				accept
	
	on visit
		dialog `You arrive on <planet>, but realize that your escort carrying the band and their supplies has not arrived yet. Better depart and wait for your escorts to enter the system.`
	on complete
		payment
		payment 100000
		log `Dropped the famous band "There Might Be Riots" off on Wayfarer. They drew quite the crowd, and paid very well.`
		conversation
			`You drop off the band "There Might Be Riots" on <destination>. Along the way, you got to hear some of their music, which is mostly characterized by frenzied instrumentals, a very energetic brass section, and bizarre lyrics. One day while you were in transit, they nearly drove you insane by playing their catchy but nonsensical song "Henhouse In Your Soul" for four hours straight, but other than that they have been good passengers, and their stage manager gives you an incredibly generous payment of <payment>.`
			`	"We've already got a gig lined up for tonight," says Ulrich. "Want to come? We'll give you free tickets." Given how well they just paid you, it might be worth going just to build a relationship with the band, even if not for the music itself.`
			choice
				`	"Sure!"`
				`	"Sorry, I've got other things to do."`
					decline
			`	The band is even louder in concert than they were when practicing in the confines of your ship. About thirty minutes into the concert, the energy of the crowd and the surreal lyrics finally begin to soak in, and rather than seeming meaningless their music feels fraught with meaning that hovers just beyond your grasp.`
			`	Finally the band announces that their last song will be "Sad Archie." You've never heard of it, but the fans scream in approval. It's a slow, ballad-like song about a man named Archie who lives forever and is sad because the friends he makes all grow old and die. Archie has a pet dragon, and he builds a beautiful house for the dragon, but the dragon dies young. Archie is so sad seeing the dragon's house empty and gathering dust that he rents it out to some friends, but they fight with each other and trash the place. The story makes no sense, but some of the fans are wiping away tears as the song ends.`
			`	Becca, who is sitting next to you in the VIP section, says, "We learned years ago that we need to end every concert with a sad song. Otherwise the fans leave with way too much energy and start destroying public property."`
			`	The concert ends, and you say goodbye to the band. They say they'll be in touch if they ever need a ride again.`



mission "There Might Be Riots part 2"
	name "Transport band to <planet>"
	description `Give the band "There Might Be Riots" a ride to <destination>.`
	minor
	source
		government Syndicate
	destination "Prime"
	cargo "musical equipment" 4
	passengers 8
	to offer
		has "There Might Be Riots 1: done"
		random < 30
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you walk through the spaceport, you see a large crowd gathered outside a small pub, and hear the unmistakable music of There Might Be Riots from inside. The concert seems to be just winding down. Do you want to wait around and say hello to them?`
			choice
				`	(Okay.)`
				`	(Not right now.)`
					defer
			`	"<first>!" says Ulrich, when they see you. "What luck! We're doing a concert tonight on landing pad ninety-four, part of our 'Trouble on the Tarmac Tour.' We're going to need a lift to <planet> right after the concert. Or possibly in the middle of it. Can you help us out?"`
			choice
				`	"Okay. But why the hurry to leave?"`
					goto okay
				`	"Sorry, I've got other plans."`
			`	"Please," he says, "I'm serious. You'll be saving our skins. Whatever else you've got, it's not this important."`
			choice
				`	"Okay, I'll do it. Why's it so urgent?"`
				`	"Sorry, I really don't want to work with you guys anymore."`
					decline
			label okay
			`	"You'll see," he says. "You should park your ship right behind us in case the natives get restless and we need to skedaddle."`
			`	With some trepidation, you sit by the hatchway of your ship and watch as the band sets up directly outside it and the concert begins. Nothing seems out of the ordinary until the band introduces a song called "Gluttony," and you can feel a sudden tension fill the air. The Syndicate security guards, who until now have been standing at the periphery of the landing pad, begin to disperse themselves throughout the crowd.`
			`	It's a song about a man who will die if he ever stops eating, so he eats more and more and grows bigger and bigger. A second after you realize that the whole thing is a thinly veiled critique of the Syndicate, a group up front unrolls a banner that reads "End Wage Slavery!" and begins shouting and chanting slogans. As the band plays on, there is some sort of scuffle at the back of the crowd, and then you see stun guns begin to flash, and rising plumes of what you would guess is tear gas.`
			`	As the demonstrators are driven away, a group of guards approach you. "What is your connection to these musicians?" they ask.`
			choice
				`	"I'm just their transport. They're paying me to carry them to their next destination."`
					goto transport
				`	"They're friends of mine. Why? They haven't done anything illegal, that I can see."`
			`	"Be careful what friends you choose," says the guard, "or you might find that no one in this sector will offer you any jobs. Now, get them packed up and get out of here." You have no choice but to leave the planet immediately...`
				launch
			label transport
			`	"Then I suggest you do your job and transport them. Immediately." The guards leave. As soon as the band is packed up, you leave the planet...`
				launch
	
	on visit
		dialog `You arrive on <planet>, but realize that your escort carrying the band and their supplies has not arrived yet. Better depart and wait for your escorts to enter the system.`
	on complete
		payment
		payment 200000
		conversation
			`As generous as before, the band pays you generously: <payment>. "Where will you be going next, from here?" you ask.`
			`	"Who knows," says Ulrich. "Our music has taken us throughout human space, and beyond."`
			choice
				`	"What do you mean, 'beyond' human space?"`
				`	"Well, I'll look forward to the next time we meet."`
					accept
			branch "not public"
				not "event: hai-human resolution announced"
			`	Ulrich launches into a story. "Years ago when the band was young and we had a month off in between gigs, we found an old gray merchant captain with a glass eye and asked him to transport us to one of the Paradise worlds for an extended 'drug vacation,' if you know what I mean. He said, 'Boys, why don't you leave the drugs behind, and I'll take you on a real mind-altering trip,' and a few days later we were playing a concert on this world where the people were giant squirrels. They loved our music, too. Of course, these days that story isn't half as interesting as it once was."`
				goto revealed
			label "not public"
			`	Ulrich launches into a story. "Years ago when the band was young and we had a month off in between gigs, we found an old gray merchant captain with a glass eye and asked him to transport us to one of the Paradise worlds for an extended 'drug vacation,' if you know what I mean. He said, 'Boys, why don't you leave the drugs behind, and I'll take you on a real mind-altering trip,' and a few days later we were playing a concert on this world where the people were giant squirrels. They loved our music, too. Never did find anyone who could take us back there, though."`
			branch known
				has "First Contact: Hai: offered"
			`	You're tempted to laugh, but he sounds serious. "Well," you say, "if I ever find a planet of intelligent squirrels, I'll be glad to take you guys there." You help them to unload their stuff, and say goodbye for now.`
				accept
			label known
			action
				set "met hai before TMBR"
			`	"It sounds like you were visiting Hai space," you say, and you describe the aliens who live beyond the wormhole. "Yeah, that would be them," says Ulrich. "I'd love to go back there some time, but for now we have commitments closer to home." You help them to unload their stuff, and say goodbye for now.`
				accept
			label revealed
			action
				set "met hai before TMBR"
			`	"Well, now that they're not hiding away anymore, seems like you might have a new market you could go back to," you say.`
			`	"I'd love to go back there some time," says Ulrich, "but for now we have commitments closer to home." You help them to unload their stuff, and say goodbye for now.`
				accept


mission "There Might Be Riots part 3A"
	name "Transport band to <planet>"
	description `Give the band "There Might Be Riots" a ride to <destination>.`
	minor
	source
		attributes "dirt belt" "south" "rim"
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Neutral"
	destination "Pilot"
	clearance
	infiltrating
	cargo "musical equipment" 4
	passengers 8
	to offer
		has "There Might Be Riots part 2: done"
		has "First Contact: Hai: offered"
		random < 30
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you walk through the spaceport, you see a distinctive group of people lugging a collection of instruments: the band There Might Be Riots. Would you like to see if there is anything more you can do for them?`
			choice
				`	(Yes.)`
				`	(Not right now.)`
					defer
			`	They're very happy to see you. "You always seem to have amazing timing," says Ulrich. "We were just wondering who could transport us to a... gig of sorts... up north, and then you come along. Any chance you could take us to <destination>?"`
			`	You've heard of that planet. "The weapons testing world for Lovelace Labs?" you ask. "I'm surprised you'd be able to find a big audience there."`
			`	"Oh, we'll have an audience, all right," he says. "We've just put out a new album called 'Songs for the End of Civilization.' A war protest album. We want to film ourselves playing a concert right in the middle of the missile testing range. Of course, we'll probably end up running out of there with Republic Intelligence nipping at our heels. What do you say?"`
			choice
				`	"Sounds like a worthy cause. Count me in!"`
					goto yes
				`	"You're going to do a concert on ground that could be littered with unexploded ordnance?"`
				`	"Sorry, that's further than I'm willing to go for you guys."`
					goto no
			`	"Yeah. What an adventure!" he says. "Come on, it will be worth it."`
			choice
				`	"Sounds like a worthy cause. Count me in!"`
					goto yes
				`	"Sorry, that's further than I'm willing to go for you guys."`
					goto no
			label no
			`	"Are you sure?" he asks. "We'll pay you with more than just money. Do this for us, and I'll share a story with you that very few have heard."`
			choice
				`	"Sorry, but it's still a 'no.'"`
					decline
				`	"Okay, I'm intrigued. But it still sounds risky."`
			label yes
			branch known
				has "met hai before TMBR"
			`	"Great," he says. "Now, the only question is where we'll go afterwards until the fuss dies down. Say, did you ever find that planet of squirrel people? We'd love to go back there."`
			`	"Yes," you say, "they're called the Hai. They live in a whole big region to the north."`
				goto end
			label known
			branch "not public"
				not "event: hai-human resolution announced"
			`	"Great," he says. "Now, the only question is where we'll go afterwards until the fuss dies down."`
			`	"Didn't you say the Hai really liked you before?" you ask. "I think now might be the perfect opportunity to go back to the Hai."`
			`	"Aww yeah!" he exclaims, "those squirrel people were rad cool. We go thumb our noses at the military industrial complex, then you take us to stay with the peaceful squirrel people where the government won't bother us."`
			`	Once more, they begin loading their stuff onto your ship, while you chart a course to <destination>.`
				accept
			label "not public"
			`	"Great," he says. "Now, the only question is where we'll go afterwards until the fuss dies down. I was thinking it'd be a great chance for our band to reconnect with the squirrel people - what did you call them?"`
			`	"The Hai," you say.`
			label end
			`	"Excellent," he says. "We go thumb our noses at the military-industrial complex, then you take us to stay with the peaceful squirrel people where the government won't bother us."`
			`	Once more, they begin loading their stuff onto your ship, while you chart a course to <destination>.`
				accept
	on visit
		dialog `You arrive on <planet>, but realize that your escort carrying the band and their supplies has not arrived yet. Better depart and wait for your escorts to enter the system.`



mission "There Might Be Riots part 3B"
	landing
	name "Transport band to <planet>"
	description `Avoid the Navy combat drones and give the band "There Might Be Riots" a ride to <destination>.`
	source "Pilot"
	destination "Allhome"
	cargo "musical equipment" 4
	passengers 8
	to offer
		has "There Might Be Riots part 3A: done"
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`You bring your ship to a gingerly landing in a section of the testing range that doesn't look too pockmarked with craters, and the band begins setting up their equipment and video cameras. "This is great," says Ulrich. "We'll be broadcasting live over the Net. It's time people started asking why the government thinks it needs all these weapons of war."`
			`	The band plays through about a third of their set without any evidence that the locals even know you are here, which is surprising for such a tightly secured planet. Then, right in the middle of a particularly crunchy anti-war song, your long-range radar picks up something: a large number of ships approaching from a hundred kilometers away.`
			choice
				`	"Guys, I think we should get out of here."`
				`	"We've got ships incoming. Could be trouble."`
					goto ships
			`	The band stops playing. Ulrich turns to the cameras and says, "For all our fans out there, we'll be back after a brief intermission." Then he walks over to you and says, "What is it?"`
			`	"Ships incoming," you say.`
				goto bad
			label ships
			`	The band stops playing. Ulrich turns to the cameras and says, "For all our fans out there, we'll be back after a brief intermission." Then he walks over to you.`
			label bad
			`	"Did they hail us?" asks Ulrich.`
			`	"No," you say.`
			`	He swears, then shouts to the rest of the band, "Gentlemen, time to pack it up posthaste, before we get turned into a tragic industrial accident!"`
			`	The band has just packed the last of their equipment away when the ships come into view. It's a swarm of unpiloted combat drones, and they seem to be engaged in mock combat with each other. But, their flight path is taking them straight in your direction. You power up your shields just as the first of the drones decide that your ship is a valid target for their lasers...`
				launch
	
	npc
		government "Team Red"
		personality heroic nemesis
		fleet
			variant
				"Combat Drone" 5
	npc
		government "Team Red"
		personality waiting heroic
		fleet
			variant
				"Combat Drone" 20
	npc
		government "Team Blue"
		personality waiting heroic
		fleet
			variant
				"Combat Drone" 25
	
	on visit
		dialog `You arrive on <planet>, but realize that your escort carrying the band and their supplies has not arrived yet. Better depart and wait for your escorts to enter the system.`
	on complete
		payment 500000
		log `Brought "There Might Be Riots" to the Hai world of Allhome after escaping a swarm of combat drones that disrupted their performance on Pilot. Ulrich spoke of a cloudy star in the Rim where he heard a voice in his head after parking his ship.`
		conversation
			`You drop off There Might Be Riots on Allhome. Ulrich is looking around the spaceport in wide-eyed excitement. "This is it, guys!" he says. "We're back in the land of the peaceful squirrels. Captain <last>, I don't know how to thank you, but here's a start." He hands you <payment>.`
			`	As the rest of the band begins unloading their things, Ulrich adds speaking more quietly, "And, in good minstrel fashion I will pay you not just with money, but with a story.`
			`	"Back when the fame first became too much for me, I rented a shuttlecraft under an assumed name and went tooling around the galaxy just to get away from it all. I found some cloudy star out along the Rim, parked my ship where no one would bother me, shut down everything but life support, and just sat there meditating and enjoying the silence for two or three days.`
			`	"Then suddenly clear as day I heard a voice say, 'Are you okay? Do you need anything?' I was so shocked that without even thinking I said, 'I'm fine. How about you?' And the voice told me he was sad. Sad, because that part of space used to be the home of another species, and now they're all dead. He said we humans built our cities on the graveyards of a great civilization and didn't even know it. And if we didn't stop fighting each other, our species would die off too.`
			`	"That's when the band started to speak out against war."`
			choice
				`	"Do you think the voice was real, or just in your head?"`
				`	"It sounds like a good warning. I'll try to take it to heart."`
					goto end
			`	"It was in my head," he says, "And it was real. Very real. When it spoke I felt like the whole galaxy had just tipped sideways, or like I'd just stepped too close to the edge of a cliff and got vertigo. I've imagined some crazy things, but I tell you, this I did not imagine."`
			`	You wish him the best of luck in Hai space, and he heads off into the spaceport with the rest of the band.`
				accept
			label end
			`	"Then best of luck to you," he says, and he heads off into the spaceport with the rest of the band.`
				accept



mission "Drug Running 1"
	name "Drug Running"
	description "Bring a shipment of <cargo> to <destination>. Payment will be <payment>. If you are caught with this cargo, you may be fined."
	minor
	repeat
	infiltrating
	source
		attributes "near earth" "dirt belt" "north"
	destination
		attributes "paradise"
		distance 1 100
	cargo "illegal drugs" 5 2 .1
	illegal 40000 `In addition to the fine, the illegal drugs are confiscated from your cargo hold.`
	stealth
	to offer
		random < 10
		"said no to drugs" < 4
	
	on offer
		dialog `As you are walking through the spaceport, a man pulls you aside and asks if you would like to help transport <tons> of "recreational pharmaceuticals" to <planet> for <payment>. (This sounds like an illegal mission, so you'll need to avoid getting scanned or landing on planets with high security.)`
	
	on accept
		"said no to drugs" --
	on decline
		"said no to drugs" ++
	
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo on visit"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 80000
		"drug smuggler" ++
		dialog `Some disreputable-looking locals unload the illegal drugs from your cargo bay, and hand you your payment of <payment>.`



mission "Drug Running 2"
	name "Drug Running"
	description "Bring a shipment of <cargo> to <destination>. Payment will be <payment>. If you are caught with this cargo, you may be fined."
	minor
	repeat
	infiltrating
	source
		attributes "near earth" "dirt belt" "north"
	destination
		attributes "rich"
		distance 1 100
	cargo "illegal drugs" 5 2 .1
	illegal 50000 `In addition to the fine, the illegal drugs are confiscated from your cargo hold.`
	stealth
	to offer
		random < 10
		has "Drug Running 1: done"
	
	on offer
		dialog `When you walk into the local bar, a man sitting in the corner waves you over and says in a hushed voice, "Captain, we've got <tons> of the good stuff that needs to get to <planet>. I promise you this will be a very lucrative operation. What do you say?"`
	
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo on visit"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 100000
		"drug smuggler" ++
		dialog `Immediately after you land, some workers show up to unload the "stuff." They give you <payment>.`



mission "Drug Running 3"
	name "Drug Running"
	description "Bring a shipment of <cargo> to <destination>. Payment will be <payment>. If you are caught with this cargo, you may be fined."
	minor
	repeat
	infiltrating
	source
		attributes "near earth" "dirt belt" "north"
	destination
		attributes "urban"
		distance 1 100
	cargo "illegal drugs" 5 2 .1
	illegal 70000 `In addition to the fine, the illegal drugs are confiscated from your cargo hold.`
	stealth
	to offer
		random < 10
		has "Drug Running 2: done"
	
	on offer
		dialog `A well-dressed woman approaches you as you are walking through the spaceport and asks quietly if you would be willing to help facilitate the transport of some "naughty substances" to a certain individual on <planet> for <payment>.`
	
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo on visit"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 120000
		"drug smuggler" ++
		dialog `You hand off the illegal "substances" to your contact on <planet>, who pays you <payment>.`



effect "puff"
	sprite "effect/puff"
		"no repeat"
		"frame rate" 10
	"lifetime" 20
	"random angle" 360
	"velocity scale" -.005

outfit "Imaginary Weapon"
	category "Guns"
	"gun ports" -1
	weapon
		sprite "projectile/rainbow"
			"frame rate" 12
			"random start frame"
		"hit effect" "puff"
		"die effect" "puff"
		"inaccuracy" 20
		"velocity" 12
		"lifetime" 60
		"reload" 10
		"acceleration" 1.2
		"drag" .1
		"turn" 3
		"homing"
			"leading"
			"throttle control"
		"tracking" 1.

ship "Hallucination"
	noun "flower"
	sprite "ship/hallucination"
		"frame rate" 1
		"random start frame"
	"never disabled"
	attributes
		category "Unclassified"
		"hull" 1000
		"mass" 180
		"drag" 2.1
		"heat dissipation" .7
		"fuel capacity" 100000
		"jump fuel" 100
		"jump speed" 1
		"jump drive" 1
		"automaton" 1
		"thrust" 30
		"turn" 500
		"energy generation" 1
	outfits
		"Imaginary Weapon" 1
	gun 0 0

mission "Hallucination"
	invisible
	landing
	to offer
		has "Drug Running 2: active"
		random < 50
		"teetotaler" < 3
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`During your brief stop on <origin>, it occurs to you that it really is a shame to have a cargo hold full of the finest of illegal drugs, and not to take even a small sample for yourself. There is no way the loss of a tiny bit of drugs could be noticed. Give it a try?`
			choice
				`	(No, I never touch that stuff.)`
					defer
				`	(Sure, sounds like fun!)`
			`	The room begins to spin, and strange things happen...`
				launch
	
	on accept
		log `Agreed to transport illegal drugs. Tried some of them while refueling and instantly regretted it. The sky truly is endless.`
	
	on defer
		"teetotaler" ++
	
	npc kill
		government "Bad Trip"
		personality nemesis heroic
		ship "Hallucination" "Love"
		ship "Hallucination" "Peace"
		ship "Hallucination" "Happy"
		ship "Hallucination" "Shiny"



mission "Shady passenger transport 1"
	name "Shady passenger transport"
	description "Discreetly transport a passenger to <destination>. Payment will be <payment>. If you are caught with him, you may be fined."
	minor
	repeat
	infiltrating
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
		attributes "near earth" "core" "urban"
	destination
		attributes "frontier" "dirt belt" "rim" "north" "south" "pirate"
		distance 2 3
	passengers 1
	illegal 75000 `Your passenger turns out to be a small-time wanted criminal. As he is hauled off in chains, you vehemently protest that you knew nothing of his shady history. You wind up quite a bit poorer through a combination of fines and bribes (the breakdown remains somewhat unclear).`
	stealth

	to offer
		random < 10
		"rejected illegal jobs" < 3

	on offer
		dialog `While having a drink at one of the spaceport's bars, a somewhat scruffy-looking man in a dark cloak pulls you aside and offers <payment> for discreet, no-questions-asked passage to <destination>, which is quite close by. This could be a quick and lucrative job. (It also sounds illegal, so you'll need to avoid getting scanned or landing on planets with high security.)`

	on accept
		"rejected illegal jobs" --

	on decline
		"rejected illegal jobs" ++

	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic passenger on visit"
	on complete
		"getaway driver" ++
		payment 50000
		dialog `Your mysterious passenger has spoken hardly a word during the entire trip. As soon as you land, he hands you your payment of <payment> and disappears into a crowd.`



mission "Shady passenger transport 2"
	name "Shady passenger transport"
	description "Discreetly transport two passengers to <destination>. Payment will be <payment>. If you are caught with them, you may be fined."
	minor
	repeat
	infiltrating
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
		attributes "near earth" "core" "urban"
	destination
		attributes "frontier" "dirt belt" "rim" "north" "south" "pirate"
		distance 3 7
	passengers 2
	illegal 150000 `Your passengers turn out to be wanted criminals. As they are hauled off in chains, you vehemently protest that you knew nothing of their shady histories. You wind up quite a bit poorer through a combination of fines and bribes (the breakdown remains somewhat unclear).`
	stealth

	to offer
		random < 8
		"rejected illegal jobs" < 3
		"getaway driver" > 2

	on offer
		dialog `As you are walking through the spaceport, two men in nondescript clothing appear out of nowhere and offer <payment> for discreet, no-questions-asked passage to <destination>. Though they say very little, you get the distinct sense that their presence on this planet and motivation to be elsewhere may not be entirely legal.`

	on accept
		"rejected illegal jobs" --
		"getaway driver" ++
		dialog `You bundle the men onto your ship before anyone sees them. As you're helping unpack their luggage, one of them casually mentions that they may have attracted the attention of some bounty hunters, and would prefer not to be captured. You should probably avoid being scanned, too.`

	on decline
		"rejected illegal jobs" ++

	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic passenger on visit"
	on complete
		"getaway driver" ++
		payment 100000
		dialog `Your passengers depart after paying you the agreed-upon sum of <payment>, off to make new lives for themselves doing who-knows-what.`

	npc
		government "Bounty Hunter"
		personality nemesis plunders waiting
		system
			distance 6 9
		fleet "Bounty Hunters"



mission "Shady passenger transport 3"
	name "Shady passenger transport"
	description "Discreetly transport <bunks> passengers to <destination>. Payment will be <payment>. If you are caught with them, the legal consequences may be severe."
	minor
	repeat
	infiltrating
	source
		attributes "frontier" "dirt belt" "rim" "north" "south" "pirate"
	destination
		attributes "near earth" "core" "urban"
		distance 5 10
	passengers 4 8
	illegal 400000 `It's difficult to feign ignorance of your passengers' background during your questioning. You wind up having to pay a small fortune in fines and bribes to keep yourself from being charged as an accomplice to some very serious-sounding crimes.`
	stealth

	to offer
		random < 5
		"rejected illegal jobs" < 3
		"getaway driver" > 5
		has "Shady passenger transport 2: done"

	on offer
		dialog `A group of <bunks> fearsome-looking young men and women brazenly walk up to you in broad daylight, explaining that they're in some legal trouble and need to get to <destination> as quickly as possible. They offer <payment> to secure discreet passage. You must be getting quite a reputation in certain circles. Transporting them might be very dangerous. On the other hand, they're offering a small fortune...`

	on accept
		dialog `The mercenaries (or gang members, or fleeing bank robbers, or who knows what else) make themselves at home on your ship, and begin drinking and arguing. You wonder what you've gotten yourself into...`
		"rejected illegal jobs" --

	on decline
		"rejected illegal jobs" ++

	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic passenger on visit"
	on complete
		payment 350000
		dialog `During the voyage, you've come to understand that your passengers are mercenaries whose latest exploits put them on the wrong side of the law. They pay you the agreed-upon sum of <payment> and disappear into a crowd, no doubt off to cause chaos and mayhem for some unsuspecting victims. Oh well, not your problem...`
		"getaway driver" ++
	npc
		government "Bounty Hunter"
		personality nemesis plunders
		system
			distance 2 3
		fleet "Bounty Hunters"
	npc
		government "Bounty Hunter"
		personality nemesis plunders
		system
			distance 2 3
		fleet "Bounty Hunters"
	npc
		government "Bounty Hunter"
		personality nemesis plunders
		system
			distance 6 9
		fleet "Bounty Hunters"



mission "Shady passenger transport 3 - double cross"
	name "Shady passenger transport"
	description "Discreetly transport <bunks> passengers to <destination>. Payment will be <payment>. If you are caught with them, the legal consequences may be severe."
	"apparent payment" 350000
	minor
	source
		attributes "frontier" "dirt belt" "rim" "north" "south" "pirate"
	destination
		attributes "near earth" "core" "urban"
		distance 5 10
	passengers 4 8

	to offer
		random < 5
		"rejected illegal jobs" < 3
		"getaway driver" > 5
		has "Shady passenger transport 2: done"
		credits >= 10000000

	on offer
		dialog `A group of <bunks> fearsome-looking young men and women brazenly walk up to you in broad daylight, explaining that they're in some legal trouble and need to get to <destination> as quickly as possible. They offer <payment> to secure discreet passage. You must be getting quite a reputation in certain circles. Transporting them might be very dangerous. On the other hand, they're offering a small fortune...`

	to fail
		has "bribed mercenaries"

	to complete
		not "bribed mercenaries"

	on accept
		dialog `The mercenaries (or gang members, or fleeing bank robbers, or who knows what else) make themselves at home on your ship, and begin drinking and arguing. You wonder what you've gotten yourself into...`
		"rejected illegal jobs" --

	on decline
		"rejected illegal jobs" ++

	on enter
		conversation
			`You'd begun to doubt the wisdom of your decision to transport this band of cutthroats from the moment you agreed to it, but the money was too good to resist. You settle into the captain's chair and prepare for the voyage ahead.`
			`	But something feels wrong. You expect to hear the sounds of drunkenness and violence coming from the passenger compartment, but instead a deathly silence fills the air. You whirl around in your seat and come face-to-face with the entire gang. They're all armed. And their weapons are pointing at you. Your heart sinks.`
			`	Their leader appears to be a lithe and dangerous-looking young woman who holds an enormous shotgun that's almost as big as her. "Looks like we boarded the ship of fools, and here's the biggest one!" she says mockingly. "We didn't have a credit to our names, but soon we'll own your ship. Hand over the access codes and we'll let you live."`
			choice
				`	(Shoot first!)`
					goto shoot
				`	(Negotiate.)`
					goto negotiate
				`	(Surrender.)`
					goto betrayed

			label shoot
			branch "shoot and die" "shoot and live"
				random < 75

			label "shoot and die"
			`	That turns out to be a really bad decision. It's also your last. A truly excessive barrage of projectiles ends your life.`
				die

			label negotiate
			`	"You don't want my ship, you want my money," you stammer, stalling for time while you try to think of a way out of this situation. "This ship is registered to me; nobody would believe that you came across it honestly. You want a fresh start in an anonymous ship. I'll give you 4 million credits, and you can buy a Modified Argosy or some other vessel better suited to your line of work."`
			`	The gang leader snorts derisively. "Why don't we just kill you and hotwire this ship? That sounds more fun."`
			choice
				`	(Shoot first!)`
					goto shoot
				`	(Offer more money.)`
					goto "more money"
				`	(Surrender.)`
					goto betrayed

			label "more money"
			action
				set "bribed mercenaries"
			`	You up your bribe to 8 million credits. It's enough. A sigh of relief escapes your lips as everyone lowers their weapons.`
			`	You arrange for a merchant captain to transport the renegades down to the surface, along with a password-protected credit chip. Once the airlock closes, you send them the password. At least you have escaped with your life and your ship.`
				defer

			label betrayed
			`You go to the security station and bitterly hand over the ship's access codes.`
			`	"Smart move," the leader says. "Or was it? Now we don't need you alive for anything, do we?"`
			`	She fires her shotgun into you from behind, and for a brief moment, you are treated to the sight of your internal organs splattered all over the console. It's the last thing you ever see.`
				die

			label "shoot and live"
			`Somehow, miraculously, you manage to reach your gun before she fires. Perhaps it's the sheer brazenness of it - no one would expect someone staring down the barrels of half a dozen guns to actually draw against them. Nevertheless, you do, and it works.`
			`	Your first shot finds its mark, and the gang leader crumples to the floor. The other thugs shriek in alarm and begin to spray gunfire in all directions, but it's ineffective panic fire. Taking cover behind the armored captain's chair, you dispatch two more with well-aimed shots.`
			`	The remaining goons attempt to flee, but your fingers find the button controlling the bridge door and it slams down before they can escape. They throw down their weapons and surrender. You toss them into the brig and decide that it might be a hoot to take them to their original destination as prisoners instead of passengers, and see if you can get a bounty for bringing them in.`

	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic passenger on visit"
	on complete
		dialog `You hand off your prisoners to the planetary authorities who gratefully take them into custody. It turns out that they were wanted, and there's a substantial bounty. You find yourself richer to the tune of <payment>.`
		payment 250000

	npc
		government "Bounty Hunter"
		personality nemesis plunders
		system
			distance 2 3
		fleet "Bounty Hunters"
	npc
		government "Bounty Hunter"
		personality nemesis plunders
		system
			distance 2 3
		fleet "Bounty Hunters"
	npc
		government "Bounty Hunter"
		personality nemesis plunders
		system
			distance 6 9
		fleet "Bounty Hunters"



mission "Shady passenger transport 3 - double cross big payment"
	name "Shady passenger transport big payment"
	landing
	invisible

	to offer
		has "bribed mercenaries"
		credits >= 8000000

	on offer
		payment -8000000
		conversation
			`You receive a message informing you of an unusually large transaction: 8 million credits. The gang of cutthroats must have withdrawn the money you bought them off with. You are now free to continue your career - poorer, but hopefully wiser.`
				decline



mission "Rescue Miners 1"
	description "Participate in the medical evacuation of miners injured on <planet> by bringing <bunks> emergency workers and <cargo> to the planet."
	name "Rescue Miners"
	minor
	source
		attributes "core"
		attributes "urban"
	destination
		attributes "core"
		attributes "mining"
		distance 1 100
	passengers 15
	cargo "emergency supplies" 15
	to offer
		random < 60
	
	on offer
		dialog `You've just sat down in the spaceport bar and ordered a drink when someone in uniform runs into the room and shouts, "There's been a mine explosion on <planet>! We need all available ships to carry relief workers and supplies and to evacuate the injured to a world where there are better medical facilities."`
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo and passenger on visit"



mission "Rescue Miners 2"
	landing
	description "Participate in the medical evacuation of miners injured on <origin> by bringing <bunks> passengers to the medical facilities on <destination>."
	name "Rescue Miners"
	destination
		attributes "core"
		attributes "urban"
		distance 2 10
	passengers 15
	to offer
		has "Rescue Miners 1: done"
	
	on offer
		dialog `You drop off the medical personnel on <origin>. There are nearly a hundred injured miners waiting for medical evacuation to <planet>. Do you volunteer to carry some of them?`
	
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic passenger on visit"
	on complete
		payment 80000
		dialog `You drop off the injured miners at one of the medical facilities on <planet> that has agreed to care for the survivors. It's a somewhat chaotic process, but eventually someone thanks you for your help and pays you <payment>.`



mission "Courier 1"
	name "Rush delivery to <planet>"
	repeat
	deadline
	description "Deliver <cargo> to <destination> by <date>. Payment is <payment>."
	minor
	cargo random 5 2 .1
	to offer
		random < 5
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Quarg" "Neutral"
	destination
		distance 4 10
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Quarg" "Neutral"
	on offer
		dialog `As you are walking through the spaceport, a man approaches you and says, "Excuse me, Captain. I took on a rush delivery of <cargo> to <planet>, but my ship needs repairs and there's no way I can make it there before <day>. Can you take this job for me? The payment for the job is <payment>."`
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo on visit"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 30000
		dialog phrase "generic cargo delivery payment"


phrase "generic human package offer"
	word
		`A local`
		`A man`
		`A resident of <origin>`
		`A stranger`
		`A woman`
	word
		` `
	word
		`appears from seemingly nowhere to ask,`
		`approaches you and says,`
		`flags you down and asks,`
		`walks up to you and asks,`
		`stops you and asks,`
	word
		` "`
	word
		`Captain,`
		`Excuse me, Captain.`
		`Sorry to interrupt, but`
		`Hey there, Captain.`
	word
		` `
	word
		`I have a small package that needs to get to <planet> by <day>.`
		`I'm trying to get a package to a relative on <planet> by <day>.`
		`I need to get this package to one of my clients on <planet> by <day>.`
		`I'm trying to get this package to <planet> before <day>.`
	word
		` `
	word
		`Are you able to carry it for me?`
		`Can you carry it for me?`
		`Could you take it there?`
		`Can you help me out with this?`
	word
		` I'll give you <payment> for the effort.`
		` I'm willing to pay you <payment>.`
		` I can afford to give you <payment> for it.`
	word
		`"`

mission "Courier 2"
	name "Package to <planet>"
	repeat
	deadline
	description "Deliver a package weighing <tons> to <destination> by <date>. Payment is <payment>."
	minor
	cargo package 2
	to offer
		random < 5
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Quarg" "Neutral"
	destination
		distance 7 14
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Quarg" "Neutral"
	on offer
		dialog phrase "generic human package offer"
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo on visit"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 50000
		dialog "You drop off the package and collect your payment of <payment>."



mission "Courier 3"
	name "Papers to <planet>"
	deadline
	description "Deliver <tons> of legal papers to <destination> by <date>. Payment is <payment>."
	minor
	cargo "legal papers" 1
	to offer
		random < 5
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Quarg" "Neutral"
	destination
		distance 7 14
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Quarg" "Neutral"
	on offer
		dialog `A woman in a suit walks up to you and says, "Pardon me, Captain. I represent a recently deceased client here on <origin> whose legal papers need to be delivered to his next of kin on <destination>. Would you be willing to do some courier work? The papers must be delivered by <day>, and you will be paid <payment>."`
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo on visit"
	on complete
		payment 100000
		dialog "You drop off the legal papers and collect your payment of <payment>."



mission "Courier 4"
	name "Lizard to <planet>"
	deadline
	description "Deliver an exotic pet (weighing <tons>) to <destination> by <date>. Payment is <payment>."
	minor
	cargo "exotic lizard" 3
	to offer
		random < 5
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Quarg" "Neutral"
	destination
		distance 7 14
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Quarg" "Neutral"
		attributes "rich"
	on offer
		conversation
			`A man wearing a very complicated hat waves to you from the other side of a landing pad. "Yoo-hoo, Captain!" he says. "I have a courier mission for you if you're interested."`
			choice
				`	(Find out what he wants.)`
				`	(Ignore him.)`
					decline
			`	"My name is Alphonse," he says. "I am a breeder of exotic lizards. A new client on <planet> has just ordered one, and will pay you <payment> to transport it. Naturally, being a live animal, it's a rush delivery; it needs to be done by <day>. What do you say?"`
			choice
				`	"I'd be glad to."`
				`	"Sorry, I'm not interested in that sort of work."`
					decline
			`	"Excellent!" he says. "Come, let me introduce you to your cargo." He leads you to a supply shed where an enormous lizard, taller than you and probably weighing several tons, is being held in a cage that looks far too flimsy for it. "I'll have my men load her aboard your ship at once," says the man, "along with some meat for her to eat on the journey. Watch out for your fingers when you feed her, by the way. Thank you!"`
				accept
	
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo on visit"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 100000
		dialog `Somehow, you have managed to bring the large lizard to <planet> without it breaking loose and eating you. You unload it and wait for its new owner to come. When he does, he pays you <payment>.`



mission "Migrant Workers 1"
	name "Migrant Workers"
	description "Bring a group of <bunks> migrant workers to <planet>. Payment is <payment>."
	minor
	passengers 6 7
	source
		attributes "dirt belt"
		attributes "farming"
		near "Zeta Aquilae" 1 100
	destination Rand
	to offer
		random < 5
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`In the spaceport, you can't help but notice a group of six or seven men in ragged farm clothing, sitting by the edge of one of the launch pads. They are probably migrant workers looking for a lift.`
			choice
				`	(Approach them.)`
				`	(Ignore them.)`
					defer
			`	You strike up a conversation with the workers. They say that they are tired of the seasonal fluctuations of farm work, and are looking for something a bit steadier and better paying. "We hear there's always work to be had in the mines on <planet>," they say. "Can you take us there? We've pooled together our savings, and can pay you <payment>."`
			choice
				`	"Sure!"`
					accept
				`	"No, sorry, I'm not headed in that direction."`
					decline
	
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic passenger on visit"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 20000
		dialog `The migrant workers thank you for transporting them, and hand you <payment>. You hope that they will be able to find better work here than they had on <origin>.`



mission "Humanitarian 1"
	name "Vaccine to <planet>"
	description "Bring <tons> of flu vaccines to the lawless world of <planet>. Be sure the medicine gets into the right hands."
	minor
	cargo "vaccine" 20
	to offer
		random < 5
		"combat rating" > 0
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Quarg" "Neutral"
	destination
		government "Pirate"
		distance 2 10
	clearance
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`While you are sitting at a table in a local cafe, a woman sits down across from you and says, "Pardon me, Captain. I wonder if you would be interested in helping with a humanitarian mission."`
			choice
				`	"Tell me more."`
				`	"Sorry, I'm too busy."`
					decline
			`	"There's a flu epidemic on <planet>," she says. "It's a lawless world, so they have not been able to find any merchants willing to bring them medicine. But if they don't get a shipment of vaccine soon, the epidemic could become much worse, and even spread to other worlds."`
			choice
				`	"I'd be glad to help."`
				`	"Sorry, I don't believe in helping pirates."`
					decline
			`	"Thank you," she says. "Your contact on <planet> will be a man named 'Raven Hunter.' Don't let anyone but him trick you into giving them the supplies."`
				accept
	
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo on visit"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 50000
		dialog
			`After several shady characters have offered to buy the vaccines off you, or threatened to rob you, "Raven Hunter" finally shows up and collects them. He thanks you, and pays you <payment>.`



mission "Humanitarian 2"
	name "Food to <planet>"
	description "Bring <tons> of food to the lawless world of <planet>, to help alleviate a famine."
	minor
	cargo "emergency rations" 50
	to offer
		random < 5
		"combat rating" > 0
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Quarg" "Neutral"
	destination
		government "Pirate"
		distance 2 10
	clearance
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you are walking through the local market, a man says, "Captain, do you have room in your hold to bring food to a starving planet?"`
			choice
				`	"Yes, but I hadn't heard news of a famine recently."`
				`	"Sorry, not today."`
					decline
			`	"No, this one wouldn't be in the news," he says. "It's <planet>, a lawless world. They're desperately in need of food, although it's mostly due to corruption and mismanagement of resources."`
			choice
				`	"Well, it sounds like they're getting exactly what they deserve. And, I have no intention of risking my life to land on a pirate world."`
					decline
				`	"Well, even so, no one deserves to starve to death. I'll help them."`
			`	"Thank you," he says. "We'll load the food into your cargo hold immediately. The sooner you can drop it off on <planet>, the better."`
				accept
	
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo on visit"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 50000
		dialog
			`It takes a while to figure out who exactly is in charge here. You sell off parts of your shipment of food to a few different local leaders, receiving <payment> in exchange.`



mission "Terraforming 1"
	name "Terraforming Rand"
	description "Bring a delegation of two people from Rand to the Academy of Planetary Sciences on Glory."
	minor
	source "Rand"
	destination "Glory"
	passengers 2
	
	to offer
		"reputation: Republic" >= 0
		or
			not "chosen sides"
			has "main plot completed"
	on offer
		conversation
			`You stop in to the spaceport bar for a drink. The bar seems to be frequented mostly by the managers of the mining corporation; you suspect the workers don't earn enough to visit a bar very frequently. In one corner, two of the managers are having a very animated discussion. When they see you, they say, "Hello there, Captain! Interested in taking us on a business trip?"`
			choice
				`	"What sort of trip?"`
				`	"Sorry, I'm just in here for the drinks."`
					defer
			`	"To Glory, to the Academy of Planetary Sciences," he says. "This world is rich in resources, and we're thinking that if we could only cool down the deserts a bit and get more plants to grow here, it would be a decent place to live. We've been dreaming about this for years, and I think it's time to go pay a terraforming consultant to tell us whether it's actually possible or not."`
			choice
				`	"Sure, I'd be glad to take you there."`
					accept
				`	"Sorry, that's way too far away for me to travel right now."`
					decline
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but realize that your escort carrying the managers hasn't entered the system yet. Better depart and wait for it.`



mission "Terraforming 2"
	landing
	name "Terraforming Rand"
	description "Return to Rand with the delegation and a student who thinks she can terraform the planet cheaply."
	source "Glory"
	destination "Rand"
	passengers 3
	blocked "You have reached <origin>, but you need <capacity> in order to take on the next mission. Return here when you have the required space free."
	to offer
		has "Terraforming 1: done"
	
	on offer
		log `Brought Eric and Alaric to Glory, two managers of a mining corporation on Rand hoping to terraform the planet. Terraforming Rand would be immensely expensive, but a girl named Amy has a theory that may make the process cheap.`
		conversation
			`You drop off the two managers from Rand, whose names are Eric and Alaric, at the Academy. While you wait for their meeting to end, you look around the lobby. The students have apparently just had some sort of science symposium, and poster boards are on display all along the walls. One of them catches your eye: the title is "Affordable Terraforming through Equilibrium Mapping."`
			`	The basic concept of the poster seems to be that instead of altering the climate of a planet through brute force, it ought to instead be feasible to use a properly timed nudge in the right direction to cause the climate to shift toward a new equilibrium point that supports greater biological complexity. This student seems to think that planets naturally "want" to grow more complex and support more life, but that they sometimes get "stuck" in less optimum states.`
			`	It's an intriguing idea. On the other hand, at the bottom of the paper, the professor has written, "Very poor scholarship. Do not anthropomorphize planets."`
			`	Just then, Eric and Alaric return, looking disappointed.`
			choice
				`	"No luck?"`
			`	They shake their heads. "It would cost fifteen million just to bring a specialist out for an initial consultation," says Eric, "and besides, the cost of terraforming machinery and upkeep is prohibitive. I think this whole Academy is just a money-making racket."`
			choice
				`	"Have a look at this poster. Maybe this student would help us. We could bill it as a sort of internship for her."`
				`	"Indeed. They gave this student a failing grade just for suggesting it could be done more cheaply."`
			
			`	They look at the poster. "Sounds almost too good to be true," says Alaric. "Hang on, I'll look her up in the campus directory." A few minutes later, he is on the phone with the student who made the poster. Her name is Amy. It turns out she is about to flunk out anyway, and is more than willing to travel back to Rand with you when offered a tiny fraction of what the consultant would have received.`
			`	An hour later, you meet up with Amy, and arrange for her to join you on your ship before it takes off. Eric and Alaric are very excited, but you are a bit worried about the wisdom of entrusting their planet's future to someone so young and inexperienced.`
				accept
	
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but realize that your escort carrying Eric, Alaric, and Amy hasn't entered the system yet. Better depart and wait for it.`
	on complete
		payment 140000
		dialog `On the entire return journey, Eric and Alaric have been busy showing Amy geological survey maps of Rand and asking her for ideas. The moment you land, they hurry out of the ship. "I'm going to show Amy around," says Eric, "but meet us in the spaceport bar later if you want to help out with whatever we do next." Alaric hands you <payment> as payment for your services, and then follows after them.`



ship "Asteroid"
	noun "asteroid"
	sprite "asteroid/medium rock/spin"
		"frame rate" 10
	attributes
		category "Unclassified"
		"fuel capacity" 1
		"hull" 10000
		"mass" 1000
		"drag" 10
		"heat dissipation" .1
		"required crew" 0
		"automaton" 1
		"bunks" 0
		"thrust" 10
		"turn" 100
		"thrusting energy" 1
		"turning energy" 1
		"energy generation" 3
		"inscrutable" 1
	explode "small explosion" 25
	explode "medium explosion" 35
	explode "large explosion" 45
	explode "huge explosion" 30



mission "Terraforming 3"
	name "Terraforming Rand"
	description "Plant a thruster on an asteroid to guide it into a collision with the northern pole of Rand."
	blocked "You'll need more cargo space in order to take the next mission from Eric and Alaric. Return here when you have <capacity>."
	cargo "thruster equipment" 10
	source "Rand"
	to offer
		has "Terraforming 2: done"
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`Alaric, Eric, and Amy are having a heated conversation at a table in the bar. When they see you, Alaric says, "Okay, let's let Captain <last> be the tie breaker." He motions to you to join them.`
			`	Amy explains, "Based on my data, it appears that Rand once had a cooler, more moist climate. But the trouble is, it has almost no axial tilt."`
			`	"That means no changing seasons," explains Eric.`
			`	"The result is that much of the planet is very hot, but the poles are very cold. Nearly all the planet's water has migrated to the poles and ended up frozen into the ice caps. Because the weather is so unchanging here, nothing ever prompts that water to melt and rejoin the hydrological cycle."`
			choice
				`	"Well, that seems impossible to fix. It's not like you can rotate a planet's axis."`
					goto rotate
				`	"Are you suggesting melting the ice caps somehow?"`
					goto melting
			label rotate
			`	"Of course not," she says. "But what we can do is introduce a sudden variation in the planet's climate that will allow water to be distributed more evenly across the surface again."`
				goto danger
			label melting
			`	"That would be the traditional terraforming approach," she says, "using orbital mirrors, or geothermal power, or something similar to evaporate the ice caps at a faster rate than new ice is being deposited. That approach would take a century or so."`
				goto danger
			label danger
			`	"This is where Amy's plan gets a bit scary," says Alaric.`
			`	"I'm proposing crashing a medium-sized asteroid into the ice cap," she says. "If we pick the right asteroid, we can control the amount of dust that is created. The result will be a sudden influx of variability, that may allow the planet to revert to a wetter, more biodiverse state."`
			choice
				`	"That is a stupid idea, and I want nothing to do with it."`
					decline
				`	"Well, if you think it will work, I'm willing to try it!"`
			`	"Great!" says Amy. "I'll mark the asteroid on your radar. You just need to board it, install a small ion thruster, and return here."`
			`	Eric contacts some spaceport workers and has them load a small thruster onto your ship, along with the equipment you will need to mount it on the asteroid.`
				accept
	
	npc save assist
		government "Uninhabited"
		personality derelict fleeing uninterested waiting pacifist mute
		ship "Asteroid" "Target Asteroid"
	
	on visit
		dialog `You return to the spaceport to the confused looks of Eric, Alaric, and Amy. "You didn't put the thrusters on the asteroid," Amy says. "Just board the asteroid to attach the thrusters." Amy begins pushing you back to your ship, clearly eager to see the results of this experiment.`
	on complete
		payment 20000
		log `Agreed with Amy's idea to steer an asteroid into Rand's polar ice cap in order to change the planet's climate. Hopefully this ends well.`
		dialog
			`When you land, the sky already seems noticeably darker than before. Eric runs up to your ship. "You did it!" he says, excited. "A perfect hit. Now we just have to wait and see what the results are. Meet us in the spaceport bar again in a few hours, and Amy will have her initial measurements ready." He hands you a credit chip for <payment>.`



mission "Terraforming 4"
	name "Terraforming Rand"
	description "Bring Amy to <destination> to collect some hardy plants that can grow in a low-light environment."
	source "Rand"
	destination "New Portland"
	to offer
		has "Terraforming 3: done"
	passengers 1
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`By the time you meet up with Eric, Alaric, and Amy, the cloud cover already seems to have visibly increased. Amy is very enthusiastic. "Atmospheric water vapor is on the rise," she says. "The impact vaporized enough ice to form a small ocean. I wouldn't be surprised if we get a rainstorm here in a day or two."`
			`	"What's next?" you ask.`
			`	She says, "I'd like to travel with you to <planet>, and collect some seeds and cuttings from plants that can handle a cooler world with dimmer light, since that's what we'll have here until the dust settles down. I'd say we'll need about ten tons of cargo space."`
			choice
				`	"I'd be glad to take you there."`
					accept
				`	"Sorry, I need to move on to some other work now."`
					decline
	
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but realize that your escort carrying Amy hasn't entered the system yet. Better depart and wait for it.`
	on complete
		dialog `As soon as you land, Amy heads off to meet with some local biologists who she contacted during the trip over here. "We'll be back in the spaceport in two hours," she says. "Be sure to have ten tons of cargo space free."`



mission "Terraforming 5"
	name "Terraforming Rand"
	description "Bring Amy and <tons> of hardy plants that can grow in a low-light environment back to <destination>."
	source "New Portland"
	destination "Rand"
	to offer
		has "Terraforming 4: done"
	passengers 1
	cargo "seeds and plants" 10
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`You meet up with Amy, and load the seeds and plant cuttings onto your ship.`
			choice
				`	"Looks good, let's head back to Rand."`
					accept
				`	"So, how do you plan to seed the whole planet with these, anyway?"`
			`	She says, "My idea is to just disperse them in a few different locations, and trust that they will spread out over the next decade or so. We picked plants that are hardy and can spread very rapidly."`
			choice
				`	"Sounds good to me."`
					accept
				`	"What happens if the plants are too invasive, and choke out all the local wildlife?"`
			`	"Well," she says, "in order to keep the climate on <planet> dynamic, they're going to need regular asteroid impacts every few decades. If these plants are too invasive, they can just wait an extra decade or so in between impacts and let the desert creep back in and kill off the invasive plants."`
			choice
				`	"Okay, I guess that would work."`
					accept
				`	"Wait, they're going to have to keep smashing asteroids into their world in perpetuity to maintain the new environment?"`
			`	"For a century or so, yes," she says. "But that's a whole lot more economical than vaporizing the ice caps using traditional terraforming equipment. Come on, let's get back to <planet>."`
				accept
	
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but realize that your escort carrying Amy and the seeds hasn't entered the system yet. Better depart and wait for it.`
	on complete
		payment 60000
		event "terraforming timer" 4 8
		log `Amy's theory to terraform Rand seems to have worked. Precipitation around the planet has greatly increased with the introduction of new water into the water cycle.`
		conversation
			`When you get back to <planet>, Amy has you fly in a random path a few kilometers above the surface while she periodically dumps loads of seeds and plant material out the airlock. In the process, you fly through several rainstorms. This world's climate has indeed been altered. But you can't help wonder how a few tons of seed spread out over the entire surface of a planet is really going to help anything.`
			`	Then you meet up with Eric and Alaric. Eric is elated. "We just got a massive rainstorm here!" he says. "We haven't had that much precipitation in a decade!"`
			`	Alaric is less enthusiastic. "Flash floods washed out the road through the canyon," he says, "and very nearly flooded one of the mines, too."`
			`	Amy says, "It will take a year or two for things to begin to settle down. Then we can figure out what our next steps should be."`
			`	"I just hope we haven't made things worse than they were," says Alaric. He hands you your payment of <payment>. "Anyway, thanks for your help, <first>. It sounds like there's nothing more to be done here for the time being."`
		event "terraforming Rand"



event "terraforming Rand"
	planet "Rand"
		add description `	Recent terraforming experiments have caused an increase in precipitation. Flash floods have scoured the landscape in some areas, but sandstorms are also less frequent, and the locals say the heat is a bit less oppressive than it used to be.`

event "terraforming timer"

mission "Terraforming 6"
	landing
	name "Unlawful Use of an Asteroid"
	description `Travel to <destination> by <date> for questioning on your "unlawful use of an asteroid."`
	source
		government "Republic"
		attributes "spaceport"
		not attributes "deep"
		not system "Sol"
	destination "Earth"
	deadline
	deadline 2
	to offer
		"reputation: Republic" >= 0
		has "event: terraforming timer"
		or
			not "chosen sides"
			has "main plot completed"
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`When you land on <origin> and exit your ship, you are stopped by a Navy officer with a group of guards. "Captain <last>. You are wanted for..." The officer pauses and looks down at the tablet in his hand. "The 'unlawful use of an asteroid.' You are to travel to <destination> immediately for questioning."`
			choice
				`	"Understood, officer."`
					accept
				`	"I'm wanted for what?"`
				`	(Run away.)`
					flee
			
			`	"The unlawful use of an asteroid, Captain. I'm not entirely sure what that means, but I've been told to send you to <planet> by <day>. Your compliance would be much appreciated."`
			choice
				`	"Alright. Hopefully I can get an answer as to what this is about."`
					accept
				`	(Run away.)`
					flee
			
	on decline
		"reputation: Republic" <?= -10
	on fail
		"reputation: Republic" <?= -10
		dialog `You receive a message from the Republic itself. "Captain <last>. You have not arrived on Earth for your trial on the 'unlawful use of an asteroid' in the time provided to you and therefore are now a criminal of the Republic."`
	on complete
		log `Had to travel to Earth to answer for crashing an asteroid into Rand. Luckily, thanks to Alaric and Eric's lawyer, the case was dropped.`
		conversation
			`You are quickly escorted from the crowded <planet> spaceport to a court building in a wealthy district of the city and asked multiple questions pertaining to the events on Rand. "Why did you purposefully crash an asteroid into a planet? What did you expect to happen? Do you know how many people could have died?" You answer to the best of your ability, and after roughly an hour of questioning you are transferred to a different room where you find Eric, Alaric, and Amy.`
			choice
				`	"What are we going to do?"`
					goto lawyer
				`	"Do you know what we're doing here?"`
			
			`	"Apparently someone had a problem with us terraforming Rand," Amy says, looking rather disappointed.`
			
			label lawyer
			`	"Don't worry," Alaric says. "Our lawyer is on his way right now. We'll all be out of here by the end of the day."`
			`	Alaric's optimism turns out to be justified, as the lawyer quickly finds that there are no actual laws on the books that define lawful or unlawful uses of an asteroid. Since no one was hurt by the asteroid impact and data that Amy had been collecting shows that Rand's climate has changed for the better so far, the case is quickly dropped and you are escorted back to your ship.`
			`	Before you are able to leave, Amy stops you. "Could you meet me in the spaceport bar, Captain? I have some good news to share with you."`



mission "Terraforming 7"
	name "Terraforming Research"
	description "Bring Amy and Nolan to <destination>, where they will research and publish Amy's terraforming methods."
	source "Earth"
	destination "Valhalla"
	passengers 2
	blocked "You need <capacity> in order to take on the next mission. Return here when you have the required space free."
	to offer
		has "Terraforming 6: done"
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`You find Amy in heated discussion with someone about her academy project, "Affordable Terraforming through Equilibrium Mapping." She takes a sip of her drink and invites you to sit down with them.`
			`	"Hello, Captain! This is Nolan. He works in the Deep's Department of Terraforming Research and Application, and he contacted me after hearing about how we started terraforming Rand."`
			`	Nolan outstretches his hand to you. "Nice to meet you, Captain."`
			choice
				`	"Nice to meet you too."`
					goto next
				`	"I take it you're interested in Amy's ideas."`
			
			`	"Absolutely. It's an extraordinary concept, and no offense to you Amy, but it's spectacular that someone of such little experience would imagine such a method of terraforming."`
			
			label next
			`	Amy continues. "Nolan wants to help pursue research of my terraforming techniques. Would you be able to give us a lift to <destination>? I'll pay you <payment>."`
			choice
				`	"Sure, I'd be glad to take you there."`
					accept
				`	"Sorry, I have other places to be."`
					decline
	
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but realize that your escort carrying Amy and Nolan hasn't entered the system yet. Better depart and wait for it.`
	on complete
		payment 50000
		event "terraforming research" 120 180
		log `Amy has been noticed by the Deep's Department of Terraforming Research. She will be spending time researching her terraforming theories in the hopes that there are more worlds that can be helped.`
		dialog `The whole journey to <planet>, Amy and Nolan discussed the multiple planets within the Dirt Belt that would be perfect candidates for terraforming. "Nolan and I will spend the next few months here researching my theories," Amy says as she steps off of your ship. "I'll make sure to contact you once we're ready to try terraforming another planet." She hands you <payment>, then follows Nolan out of the spaceport.`



event "terraforming research"

mission "Terraforming 8"
	landing
	name "Terraforming Research"
	description "Meet with Amy and Nolan on <destination> to talk about experimentally terraforming another planet."
	source
		near "Epsilon Leonis" 1 100
	destination "Valhalla"
	to offer
		has "event: terraforming research"
	
	on offer
		dialog `You receive a message from Amy: "Hello, Captain <last>. I just wanted to tell you that Nolan and I have recently published our work on 'Reducing Terraforming Expenses Through Equilibrium Mapping,' and we've received a grant from the Deep for it! We're going to begin experiments with terraforming on a different world. Don't worry, the Republic has approved our experiment this time, so we won't get dragged off for any more cases of an 'unlawful use of an asteroid.' If you're interested in helping, pick us up on <destination>."`



mission "Terraforming 9"
	landing
	name "Terraforming Tundra"
	description "Travel to <destination> with Amy, Nolan, and four others."
	source "Valhalla"
	destination "Tundra"
	passengers 6
	cargo "scientific equipment" 10
	blocked "You need <capacity> in order to take on the next mission. Return here when you have the required space free."
	to offer
		has "Terraforming 8: done"
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`The spaceport is crowded with ships and people when you land. Amy's publication must have stirred up quite the commotion among terraforming scientists.`
			`	Spaceport security clears a path to your ship for Amy, Nolan, and four people you do not recognize. You notice that a few among the crowd of people are jeering and holding signs, one reading "Don't asteroid my planet!" and a half-eaten sandwich gets thrown in Amy's path as she approaches.`
			`	"Not everyone is as happy with the prospect of affordable terraforming as we are," Amy says to you as she boards your ship along with suitcases full of scientific supplies. "But that's no reason to stop, now is it?"`
			`	Amy introduces you to the four others that she brought on board. Two of them are terraforming experts who helped Amy and Nolan with their research. The other two are representatives: one sent by the Republic Parliament in order to oversee the project, and another from Tundra.`
			`	"Once you're ready, Captain, please bring us to <destination>. Tundra was a tropical world millions of years ago, but became cold after a cataclysmic event of some sort. There's a good chance that we may be able to nudge the planet back toward a warmer climate if we do this right."`
				accept
	
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but realize that your escort carrying the scientists and their equipment hasn't entered the system yet. Better depart and wait for it.`
	on complete
		dialog
			`The journey to Tundra was spent by your passengers discussing the possible methods of terraforming the planet. The Republic representative was none too pleased when Nolan, perhaps jokingly, suggested crashing an asteroid into it.`
			`	Everyone except for the Tundra native begins to shiver after stepping out of your ship onto the planet, even while inside a protective dome. "Meet us in the spaceport bar in a few hours. We need to finalize our plans of how we're going to execute this experiment."`



mission "Terraforming 10"
	name "Terraforming Tundra"
	description "Bring the Republic representative overseeing the terraforming project to <destination>, where he will attempt to find an alternative solution to terraforming Tundra that does not involve an asteroid."
	source "Tundra"
	destination "Earth"
	passengers 1
	to offer
		has "Terraforming 9: done"
	
	on offer
		log `Began the process of trying to terraform Tundra with new research from Amy and Nolan. Nolan has suggested that another asteroid be used, but the representative for the Republic overseeing the project is displeased with this approach.`
		conversation
			`Amy, Nolan, and the other two scientists tell you the known history of Tundra's climate. Millions of years ago, an asteroid impact or large volcanic eruption altered the planet's atmosphere. Now, the planet no longer retains enough heat from its host star in order to stay warm.`
			`	"Tundra's snow covered surface only exacerbates the problem, reflecting most of the star's light back into space," Nolan explains. "This means that we need to both alter the atmosphere in order for it to retain more heat and alter the surface in order for it to reflect less heat."`
			`	Amy rolls out a map of the entire planet onto the table. Different regions of the surface are color coded, and a large red spot in the planet's southern hemisphere sticks out to you.`
			`	"Tundra has very low volcanic activity, but seismic mapping has led us to this area." Amy circles the red spot with her finger. "Magma from the planet's mantle is building up under this area of the crust, which, lucky for us, is unusually thin. Still, it could be another ten thousand years before the magma builds up enough pressure under the surface to cause a supereruption, melting the snow around it and releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere that over time will raise the global temperatures."`
			choice
				`	"So are we going to wait ten thousand years for it to erupt?"`
				`	"How does this help our situation?"`
					goto situation
			
			`	The Republic representative scoffs at your comment. "If we were then we wouldn't be here, now would we, Captain?"`
			
			label situation
			`	One of the other scientists responds, "What we plan to do is encourage the eruption of this volcano by making the crust above the volcano thinner. When the pressure of the magma is able to overcome the pressure of the crust, an eruption will occur."`
			`	"How exactly do you plan to do that?" the Tundra representative responds. "And what will happen to the people who live near that area?"`
			`	Nolan answers, "The people who live near the volcano will need to evacuate the area with all their belongings. The Republic should provide any assistance needed for the evacuation. As for how we will cause the volcano to erupt, we need something energetic enough to crack the planet's crust in the location of the volcano, releasing the pressure that the magma is causing to spark an eruption. That's where we bring in another asteroi--"`
			`	"No, no, no!" the Republic representative exclaims, cutting Nolan off mid-sentence. "The Republic will not gain a reputation for crashing asteroids into its own planets. The consequences of such an action could be disastrous should it go wrong! And in what way will this warm the planet when the resulting volcanic winter could last decades and only result in an even colder climate? Are you not even old enough to remember how a supereruption on Hope caused the evacuation of the entire planet? If the people of Tundra are this desperate to terraform their planet then normal techniques should be employed, none of this 'equilibrium mapping' nonsense."`
			`	"Sir," Amy speaks up with a stern tone of voice, "we have already been authorized by the Republic to undergo this terraforming experiment, so unless you have half a teraton of cheap explosives, we're going to need to use an asteroid. The volcanic winter can be easily avoided by having a fleet of freighters sweep the volcanic ash out of the atmosphere, meaning we'll get the benefits of the greenhouse gases without the detriments of volcanic ash reflecting Cebalrai's heat back into space. No one knew the volcano on Hope was going to erupt, but we can prepare for this eruption and take steps to mitigate the problems." Amy looks the representative straight in the eyes and smirks. "We're scientists, we have this handled."`
			`	The representative falls silent. After a moment of thinking, he says "Captain, I need you to take me to Parliament. I may be able to authorize the use of explosives that should suffice, but it may not be as cheap as Ms. Amy is hoping. We're not about to turn asteroids into our single solution for everything."`
			choice
				`	"I'll get my ship ready to launch."`
				`	"Sorry, I have other things I could be doing."`
					decline
			
			`	The representative leaves the bar. "We'll wait here," Amy says to you. "I'll speak with the Tundra government about evacuating the area around where the impact site will be so that we can start when you get back."`
				accept
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but realize that your escort carrying the representative hasn't entered the system yet. Better depart and wait for it.`



mission "Terraforming 11"
	landing
	name "Terraforming Tundra"
	description "Return to <destination> with the Republic representative."
	source "Earth"
	destination "Tundra"
	passengers 1
	to offer
		has "Terraforming 10: done"
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`"Wait here," the Republic representative says curtly. Several hours later, he returns, not looking very happy. "What a waste of time. Parliament has declined my request. I don't much agree with this, but you will need to crash an asteroid into Tundra if you wish to achieve your goal." Before you ready for launch, you send a message to Amy and Nolan telling them that an asteroid will be used after all. You don't receive an immediate response.`
				accept
	
	on enter "Cebalrai"
		dialog
			`Your ship is targeted by pirate fleets when you enter the system. Before you engage, you receive a message from Amy.`
			`	"Captain, these pirate ships have been occupying the system for days. They must be taken out if we are to safely crash an asteroid into Tundra. If you aren't able to fight them, distract them until backup arrives."`
	on visit
		dialog `You return to <planet>, but not all of the pirates have been fought off. They don't look like they're leaving any time soon either. Better depart and finish them off for good.`
	npc evade
		government "Pirate"
		personality nemesis staying target
		system "Cebalrai"
		fleet
			names "pirate"
			variant
				"Marauder Quicksilver"
				"Headhunter"
				"Wasp"
				"Bastion"
	npc
		government "Republic"
		personality heroic opportunistic
		system "Procyon"
		fleet
			names "republic small"
			variant
				"Frigate" 2
				"Gunboat" 3
				"Rainmaker" 2



mission "Terraforming 12"
	landing
	name "Terraforming Tundra"
	description "Plant a thruster on an asteroid to guide it into a collision with the dormant supervolcano on Tundra."
	source "Tundra"
	cargo "thruster equipment" 10
	blocked "You need <capacity> in order to take on the next mission. Return here when you have the required space free."
	to offer
		has "Terraforming 11: done"
	
	on offer
		payment 300000
		conversation
			`The pirates that occupied the system did not make an effort to land on Tundra, but they did harass any merchant ships that passed through the system. The government of Tundra pays you <payment> for helping in ridding the system of the pirates, a pleasantly unexpected reward.`
			`	You gather with the scientists in the spaceport bar. The Tundra native informs you that all residents close enough to the volcano to be in danger have been evacuated. "All we need to do now is find the right asteroid," Amy says, and after only a short time of searching, she finds the perfect candidate. "Just like last time, Captain."`
			`	Spaceport workers load a small thruster and the equipment you will need to mount it on the asteroid into your ship.`
				accept
	
	npc assist
		government "Uninhabited"
		personality derelict fleeing uninterested waiting pacifist mute
		ship "Asteroid" "Target Asteroid"
	
	on visit
		dialog `You return to the spaceport to the confused looks of Amy and the rest of the scientists. "You didn't put the thrusters on the asteroid," Amy says. "Just board the asteroid to attach the thrusters." Amy begins pushing you back to your ship, clearly eager to see the results of this experiment.`
	on complete
		payment 200000
		event "terraforming timer 2" 730 912
		event "terraforming Tundra"
		log `Fought off a fleet of pirates preventing the terraforming of Tundra, then maneuvered an asteroid into Tundra to trigger the eruption of a supervolcano. Tundra's global temperatures will initially drop, but the increased volume of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere will eventually improve Tundra's climate.`
		conversation
			`A plume of debris has formed in a mushroom cloud shape above where the asteroid hit. The scientists are viewing their instruments in anticipation for what happens next.`
			`	Almost an hour after the impact, the ground begins to shake slightly, even though the volcano is located hundreds of kilometers away. "This might be it!" Nolan exclaims as he closely watches a seismometer receiving readings from near the impact site. Suddenly the seismometer spikes, and another plume, much larger than the asteroid impact, rises from the impact site. Half an hour later, the low sound of the massive eruption can be heard in the spaceport, triggering another burst of cheers from the scientists. "It actually worked!" one of them yells out.`
			`	You fly the scientists over top of the volcano, allowing them to take readings of the air and surface. "Greenhouse gas levels are off the charts!" Amy exclaims. "Once these gases disperse across the planet's atmosphere, they should begin warming the entire planet."`
			`	The heat has formed a huge circle of melted snow around the volcano, revealing the green color of trees and the dull grays and browns of rock. Closer to the center of the eruption you spot dozens of lava flows emanating from the center of the impact crater.`
			choice
				`	"What do we do now?"`
					goto what
				`	"It looks beautiful from up here."`
			
			`	"Yes it does, Captain," the Republic representative says. "Yes it does."`
				goto end
			
			label what
			`	"First we need to clear all this volcanic ash out of the atmosphere, as otherwise the planet's temperature will drop, then we wait," Amy says to you. "We should be able to tell how this will affect Tundra's climate in a year or two."`
			
			label end
			`	You steer your ship back to the spaceport. Amy pays you <payment> after you land. "Thanks for your help, Captain. We're going to stay here and monitor Tundra's climate as it shifts, so there's nothing more that we need you for."`



event "terraforming Tundra"
	planet "Tundra"
		description `Millions of years ago, this was a warm world, perhaps even tropical. But some cataclysmic event, perhaps a meteor strike or a massive volcanic eruption, altered the planet's atmosphere enough to turn it into the nearly lifeless, frozen planet it is today. Recent experiments in terraforming the planet have attempted to remedy the climate by causing a supervolcano to prematurely erupt.`
		description `	The first settlers came here to drill for the oil trapped deep under the surface, a relic of Tundra's former, more lively days. Instead of refining the oil into plastic, which sells relatively cheap in this region, they have developed an industry in synthetic fabrics and clothing.`



event "terraforming timer 2"

mission "Terraforming Follow-up"
	landing
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Independent" "Neutral"
		near "Sol" 100
		attributes spaceport
	to offer
		has "event: terraforming timer 2"
	on offer
		event "terraforming follow-up"
		conversation
			`When you land, you receive a message from Amy, the girl you helped to terraform Rand and Tundra.`
			`	"I hope everything is going well, Captain. I just wanted to give you an update on what has occurred in the past year.`
			`	"Tundra's climate has drastically improved. Areas around the equator are starting to become completely snow-free, and I was amazed when I was able to walk outside without a heavy coat on. The Republic has placed a halt on any more experiments, as they wish to see how the situations on Tundra and Rand turn out.`
			`	"Speaking of Rand, last month I got to catch up with Eric and Alaric when I visited the planet. They've told me that Rand is becoming a far better place to live on now. It's even becoming a popular tourist destination. They wanted me to relay their gratitude to you for making their dream come true.`
			`	"That's all I have to say. Thanks again for all the help. I don't know where I would be without it."`
				decline



event "terraforming follow-up"
	planet "Rand"
		add attributes "tourism"
		description `Rand is a desert world, too dry for much farming and with gravity low enough to be uncomfortable for most human beings. It is, however, the best source of heavy metals in the galactic south. Aside from the managers of the mining companies, nearly all the people here are migrant workers from elsewhere in the Dirt Belt, who have come to spend a season working for the relatively high wages that uranium mining offers, either to send money off-world or to save it up in order to build a better life for themselves.`
		description `	Due to the results of recent terraforming experiments, Rand has become a moderately more habitable place. Fascination with this change in climate has led to Rand becoming a semi-popular tourist destination of the Dirt Belt.`
		spaceport `The landing pads here are poured concrete, raised up slightly above the level of the desert to keep them from being buried in sand. A few workers are constantly driving brush sweepers across the unoccupied pads. The air is filled with sand particles and dust. Aside from the storage sheds, there are only two buildings, each with a large sign out front: "Labor" and "Trade."`
		spaceport `	For once, the spaceport is lively during Remembrance Day. It appears that more and more people are choosing to invite their family over to Rand to commemorate the day instead of traveling to another planet.`
			to display
				"days since year start" > 35
				"days since year start" < 55
	planet "Tundra"
		spaceport `The spaceport village consists of several large domes, which keep out the wind and driving snow; ships enter and exit the largest of the domes through a hatch that closes as soon as they have come through. Before the planet was terraformed, enough snow would pile up on top of one of the domes every decade or so that it became a danger of collapsing under its own weight; the locals would simply move out of that dome and build another one higher up on the snowpack, but the changing climate has reduced the amount of snow enough that the locals may never need to build another dome again.`
		spaceport `	For Remembrance Day, several stalls have been set up to showcase items of clothing made with the planet's synthetic fabrics. A new addition to the event is a group of stalls dedicated to presenting clothing tailored here on Tundra.`
			to display
				"days since year start" > 35
				"days since year start" < 55



mission "A wolf, a goat, and a cabbage"
	job
	description "Transport a wolf, a goat, and a cabbage to <destination>. Payment will be <payment>."
	"apparent payment" 100000
	to offer
		"day" == 1
		"month" == 4
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral"
	destination
		distance 3 5
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral"
	cargo "wolf" 1
	
	on enter
	on enter
		dialog
			`You hear a strange crunching sound coming from your cargo hold.`
	on enter
		dialog
			`The worrisome munching sound in your ship's hold is followed by a horrific shrieking bleating noise and then an equally horrific silence. Turning on your cargo hold's security camera, you discover that there is nothing left of the goat and the cabbage that you were transporting except a few scraps of cabbage, some bones, and a lot of blood.`
			`	Meanwhile, the wolf is calmly gnawing on what you suspect is the goat's femur, with a rather self-satisfied look in its eyes. Apparently the goat ate the cabbage, and shortly after that the wolf ate the goat.`
	
	on complete
		payment 33000
		dialog
			`The man who collects the wolf from you on the landing pad is furious. "I told the shipping company not to put the goat in the same ship as the wolf or the cabbage," he says, "but I guess they tried to save money by subcontracting it all to the same captain."`
			`	Because you only delivered a third of the cargo safely, he only pays you <payment>.`



mission "Terminus exploration"
	name "Missing drone"
	description "Travel to the <waypoints> system to see if you can find any sign of a probe drone that had been launched by a team of scientists before they were attacked by pirates and forced to flee."
	source
		planet "Memory" "Haze" "Nifel"
	waypoint "Terminus"
	destination "Bounty"
	to offer
		"combat rating" > 20
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you are exploring the marketplace, a man wearing comically thick glasses comes over to talk to you. "Captain <last>?" he asks. You nod. "I hear that you're not averse to taking on risks," he says. "I'm the lead scientist on a project studying a spatial anomaly in an uninhabited system nearby. We had just launched a probe to study the anomaly more closely when a band of pirates arrived and forced us to flee the system. Would you be willing to travel there and see if you can retrieve the drone's data?"`
			choice
				`	"Sure, I would be glad to."`
					goto end
				`	"How strong of a threat is the pirate fleet?"`
				`	"Sorry, I don't have time to help you."`
					decline
			`	"Just a couple of interceptors," he says. "We were in a scout ship, with no real weapons to speak of, and none of us on the ship have any combat experience. So, we felt it was safer to run away than to try to fight, even though we were leaving valuable equipment behind."`
			choice
				`	"That doesn't sound like much of a threat. I'd be glad to help."`
				`	"Sorry, I don't want to help with this."`
					decline
			label end
			`	"Thank you so much!" he says. "All I need you to do is board the drone and download its database. Unless the pirates have already stripped out the computer, of course. The drone is in the Terminus system, a few jumps away from here. We'll be waiting on <destination> for your return."`
				accept
	npc assist
		system "Terminus"
		government "Derelict"
		personality derelict target pacifist mute
		ship "Science Drone" "Beagle"
		dialog `You board the science drone and discover that the pirates have stripped just about everything of value from it: the engines, the sensors, and the fuel cell that powered it. But the computer system is either too deeply integrated into the drone, or too specialized, to be of any value to the pirates. You transfer enough power to the drone's batteries to reactivate it, and are able to retrieve the data that the scientist was looking for. But it's clear that this drone, or what's left of it, is not going anywhere. You'll have to leave it behind.`
	npc
		system "Terminus"
		government "Pirate"
		personality staying
		fleet "Small Southern Pirates" 2
	on visit
		dialog `You've returned to <planet>, but you don't have the drone's data. Go to Terminus and board the science drone to retrieve the data.`
	on complete
		payment 90000
		log `Recovered data from a derelict science drone for a team of scientists who were studying a strange red anomaly in the Terminus system. The lead scientist on the team, Ivan, suggested that it may be a partially collapsed wormhole.`
		conversation
			`The scientist is overjoyed that you were able to retrieve the data from the drone. Almost in tears, he says, "We were worried that all our planning and fundraising had been for nothing. These measurements will help us to understand that spatial anomaly far better than we do right now." He hands you a credit chip worth <payment>. "And by the way, my name is Ivan. I have an office near the spaceport on Valhalla that you can visit if ever you're wanting to help, or just curious."`
			choice
				`	"Can you tell me more about this anomaly you are studying?"`
				`	"I'm glad I was able to help."`
					decline
			`	Ivan says, "It seems to be a partially collapsed wormhole, something that once linked this part of the galaxy to somewhere else. But, we haven't succeeded in sending anything through it. Maybe the wormhole is no longer passable. Or maybe there's some way to make it open more fully. Or maybe only ships that are specially attuned to its energy signature can travel through it. We don't even know if the wormhole is a natural phenomenon or some sort of alien artifact. Honestly, we aren't sure if it's even a wormhole at all. We'll need to study the data you've recovered to understand it further."`
			choice
				`	"A wormhole? Those actually exist?"`
				`	"What makes you think it's a wormhole? Have you found anomalies similar to this before?"`
					goto similar
			`	"Well of course. The existence of wormholes has been proven for some time now. The Deep managed to create wormholes on the atomic scale before the Republic was even founded." He lowers his voice. "But I suspect that you're asking about wormholes large enough for a ship to pass through."`
			label similar
			`	Ivan looks around the spaceport, as if checking to see if he's being watched. He then looks back to you and motions for you to lean in. Whispering, he says, "The Republic doesn't like when people share this information, but there is one stable wormhole just beyond the Republic's borders."`
			branch skip
				not "First Contact: Hai: offered"
			action
				log `Ivan said that although he's not sure if the anomaly is a wormhole or not, it does bear a striking resemblance to the wormhole that leads to the Hai.`
			`	"You mean the wormhole to the Hai?" you ask.`
			`	"Interesting, you know of it," Ivan responds. "The anomaly in Terminus bears a striking resemblance to it in some of our readings, although it is very different in others."`
				goto end
			label skip
			action
				log `Ivan said that although he's not sure if the anomaly is a wormhole or not, there is a wormhole "just beyond the Republic's borders" that the Republic doesn't like people sharing information on.`
			label end
			`	He looks around again and stands up straight. He then raises his voice, almost projecting it for anyone around you to hear. "But of course, the Deep never figured out how to make wormholes big enough for anything useful, otherwise we wouldn't even need hyperdrives," he says with a wink. "Anyway, thank you again for helping me. Hopefully we meet again in the future."`

ship "Science Drone"
	sprite "ship/science drone"
	attributes
		category "Drone"
		hull 200
		mass 30
		drag 2
		"heat dissipation" 1
	explode "tiny explosion" 5
	explode "small explosion" 2



mission "Lost Boy 1"
	minor
	name `Rescue Tod`
	description `Travel to <destination> in search for Tod, the son of a single mother from <origin>.`
	source "Moonshake"
	destination "Deadman's Cove"
	to offer
		"combat rating" > 100
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`Wandering around the spaceport to see what it has to offer, you make your way into one of the dimly lit restaurants to avoid the crowded streets and metallic-tasting air outside. The restaurant is mostly empty. One of its only inhabitants is a dirty-looking woman crying with her head down in one of the booths.`
			choice
				`	(Approach the woman and ask why she is crying.)`
				`	(Ignore her and leave the restaurant.)`
					goto leave
			
			`	As you walk close to the woman, she raises her head from her arms and brushes her hair out of her face to look at you. Tears run down her cheeks and her nose is running. "Wh-wh-what do you w-want?" she asks in a quiet voice, trying to speak through sobs.`
			choice
				`	"Can I help you?"`
				`	"Why are you crying?"`
			
			`	You ask the woman if she needs help. She wipes away the tears with the sleeve of her shirt and tells you that she is looking for her son, Tod. "I sent him away to a mining job on Placer because I don't have the money to support him myself, but on the way the ship he was on was attacked and boarded by pirates." She begins to sob again. "I d-don't know if he's d-dead or a slave. I tried t-talking to someone from the Syndicate, but they said that saving him wouldn't be w-worth it.`
			`	"W-would you be able to help? Please do if you c-can."`
			choice
				`	"Alright, I'll help you. Where should I look for him?"`
					goto accept
				`	"Sorry, I'm not going to risk my life for someone I don't know."`
			
			`	The woman begins crying even louder than she was before. A waiter walks up to you and suggests that you leave before making the situation worse, and one of the few customers in the restaurant gives you a dirty look for making his meal experience even worse.`
			
			label leave
			`	You wait for the streets to become less crowded before leaving the restaurant. As you look back through the windows of the restaurant, you catch a glimpse of the woman still crying in the booth before the crowd blocks your line of sight and you continue walking.`
				decline

			label accept
			`	"Thank you s-so much! The closest pirate planet to here is <destination>. If he's still alive then I'm sure he would be there. I can feel it." The woman gives you a description of Tod Copper so that you may find him and thanks you again for agreeing to help her. She asks that if you find him to bring him to a location in the <origin> spaceport where she will be waiting.`
				accept



mission "Lost Boy 2"
	landing
	name `Rescue Tod`
	description `Locate the <npc> and board it to rescue Tod, then bring him to <destination> so that he may reunite with his mother.`
	source "Deadman's Cove"
	destination "Moonshake"
	to offer
		has "Lost Boy 1: done"
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`The air in the <origin> spaceport smells of tobacco and tastes of the salt from the world's vast oceans. You receive sideways looks from rough-looking pirates, but none make a move to cause any trouble. As lawless as pirates can be, they still adhere to a form of honor code when in a planet's main spaceport. At least generally.`
			`	You ask a bartender for directions to the local slave traders, as that is the likely place that Tod would be if he was taken here. He points you to a slave trader by the name of Cygnet Brig who "runs the slave trade 'round these parts."`
			`	Cygnet owns a large warehouse building located on the edge of the spaceport island where he keeps all his slaves packed together in groups of three in small holding cells. Some slaves are rattling the bars on their cell or screaming in protest, but many have seemed to accept their fate. Cygnet, a tall, thin, mustachioed man, notices you gazing at the cells. "Can't keep 'em too packed together, oth'wise they's get each otha sick," he remarks in a thick accent of unknown origin to you. "What can I get ya?"`
			choice
				`	"I'm here to buy a slave."`
					goto description
				`	"Do you have a boy by the name of Tod Copper?"`
			
			`	Cygnet strokes his mustache. "Tod Copper. Tod Copper. Tell you what, that name doesn' ring a bell. Heck, I don' even keep track of names 'less I get someone impor'ant. If ya lookin' for someone in particular to buy, can I get a description?"`
			
			label description
			`	You provide Cygnet with the description of Tod that his mother gave you, then explain to him that Tod would have been taken from a ship bound for Placer.`
			`	"Oh yeah, that bugger! That little rebel was causin' me trouble so I sold him off soon as I could. If ya looking for him, then you're gonna need to look for a ship by the name of <npc>. They bought your boy Tod 'bout four days ago. Might be hangin' around a system nearby."`
			`	You thank Cygnet, who has been surprisingly polite for a slave trader, for the information. "If ya ever need a slave, just come talk to me," he remarks as you walk back to your ship. "I've got the cheapest slaves this side of Sol."`
				accept
	on visit
		dialog `You've landed on <planet>, but you haven't yet found Tod. Keep looking for the <npc> and then board the ship; it can't be far from Deadman's Cove.`
	
	npc board
		personality staying nemesis target plunders
		government "Bounty"
		system
			distance 2 4
		ship "Vanguard (Particle)" "Lord Ligonier"
		conversation
			`When you breach the ship's hull, you find the crew of the <npc> more concerned with containing the fires caused by your weapons than with you walking onto their ship. Almost every one of the crew members is a teenager. One looks at you and the pistol in your hand with mortal fear in his eyes.`
			`	Through the smoke and steam, you see a boy running toward you who fits the description of Tod Copper.`
			choice
				`	"Get on my ship!"`
					goto ship
				`	"Are you Tod?"`
			
			`	"Yeah! Are you here to save me?"`
			`	"Get on my ship!" you yell, motioning for him to come toward you.`
			
			label ship
			`	The boy runs past you and into your ship. Following closely behind Tod is a large bearded man holding a laser rifle in one hand and a fragmentation grenade in the other.`
			`	"That's my crew member, you no-good piece of sh--"`
			`	Before the captain is able to finish his sentence, pipes in the wall next to him explode, blasting hot steam all over the right side of his body, causing him to begin rolling on the floor in horrible screeches of pain. Not wanting to stay connected to the ship any longer than you need to be, you run back into your ship and fly away.`
				launch



mission "Lost Boy 3"
	landing
	name `Bring Tod to <planet>`
	description `Now that Tod's mother knows he is safe, bring him to <destination> so that he may start his mining job to support him and his mother.`
	source "Moonshake"
	destination "Placer"
	passengers 1
	blocked "This mission requires that you have at least one free bunk. Return once you have the space."
	to offer
		has "Lost Boy 2: done"
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`Tod's mother almost tears up at the sight of him as you approach. "Oh, my baby boy is alive!" she exclaims, running up and hugging Tod as his face reddens with embarrassment. "Are you hurt? Are you okay? Do you think you'll be fine?" Tod's mother asks, kissing his cheeks between each question.`
			`	"I'm fine, Mom," Tod says in an annoyed tone of voice. Some things never change.`
			`	The mother gives you a handful of credit chips. At a glance, you guess that they couldn't be worth more than 1,000 credits. "I know it isn't much for the work you've done, Captain, but it's all I have to give you in return."`
			choice
				`	"Don't worry about it."`
				`	"I'm sorry but I can't take this from you."`
					goto reject
			
			action
				payment 952
			`	"This is just so wonderful. There aren't many people around here who would do such a thing for such little pay."`
				goto end
			
			label reject
			`	You hand the credits back to the mother as she begins to tear up again. "Thank you so much, Captain."`
			
			label end
			`	"Hold on," Tod chimes in. "I still need to get to <planet>."`
			`	"Of course!" his mother yells out. "Captain, would you please make sure that Tod has a safe passage to <destination>?"`
			`	"And make sure I don't become a slave this time," Tod quips jokingly.`
			choice
				`	"Okay, I'll take Tod to <planet>."`
					accept
				`	"Sorry, I'm not headed in that direction."`
					decline
	
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality staying plunders disables
		system "Al Dhanab"
		ship "Falcon (Heavy)" "Cygnet's Slaver"
	
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but remember that Tod is in one of your escorts that has yet to enter the system. Better depart and wait for it to arrive.`
	on complete
		dialog `You wish Tod the best of luck on <planet>. "Thank you, Captain. Hopefully I can repay you one day. As cliche as it sounds, I owe you my life."`



mission "Paradise Fortune 1"
	minor
	name `Flee to <planet>`
	description `Flee from <origin> to <destination> with the girl you let on to your ship.`
	source
		planet "Follower" "Mainsail"
	destination
		attributes spaceport
		distance 1 1
	passengers 1
	to offer
		random < 50
		has "main plot completed"
		or
			not "hr: secret leaks"
			has "event: hai-human resolution announced"
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`As with all Paradise Worlds, the air is just the right temperature when you step out of your ship, and a light breeze rustles the leaves of the trees planted around the spaceport. While taking a moment to breathe in the fresh air, you hear yelling coming from the entrance to the <origin> shipyard. Looking over, you spot a young girl with a backpack running from two spaceport security guards. "Get back here!" they yell at the girl, chasing her with no success.`
			`	"Someone help me!" the girl shrieks out. As she runs, a credit chip falls out of her backpack.`
			choice
				`	(Let her onto my ship.)`
					goto continue
				`	(Ignore the scene.)`
			
			`	The girl looks you in the eyes as she approaches, expecting help that will never come. Air rushes past you as she and the security guards run by. After a few meters, the security guards catch up to the girl, tackling her to the ground and detaining her as they remove her backpack full of credit chips.`
				decline
			
			label continue
			`	You open the hatch to your ship and yell "Get on!" as the girl approaches. "Thank you, Captain," she says while getting closer, to much protest from the approaching security guards.`
			`	As she enters your ship, she grabs your arm and pulls you in with her before closing the hatch. "Launch and go to <destination>, now! I'll explain when we get there."`
				launch
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but realize that the girl is in one of your escorts that hasn't entered the system yet. Better depart and wait for it to arrive.`



mission "Paradise Fortune 2"
	landing
	name `Escaping Paradise`
	description `Escape the Paradise Worlds and travel to <destination> where Diana Howl will give over part of her family's fortune to the local government of <planet>.`
	destination
		attributes "dirt belt"
		government Republic
	passengers 1
	to offer
		has "Paradise Fortune 1: done"
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`"You need to explain what is going on here," you say just after setting your ship down.`
			`	"Alright, alright, I'll explain." You notice that the girl has a strange mix between a posh Paradise World accent and a Dirt Belt or possibly even Rim accent. "My name is Diana Howl. My father is the CEO of a large marketing firm. And this," Diana opens her backpack, revealing its full contents of thousands of credit chips, "this is part of my family fortune, about half a billion credits of it. Don't worry, my father should be able to make this back in a few months' time."`
			choice
				`	"Why have you stolen all this?"`
					goto story
				`	"I'm calling the spaceport authorities."`
			
			`	"No, wait! Let me explain!" Diana protests.`
			
			label story
			`	"All my life I've been fascinated with the world outside my little bubble of the Paradise Planets. My father met my mother on Heartland in the Cor Caroli system while he was on a business trip, so my mother would often take me on trips to the Dirt Belt. The last time I went was before the war though; my mother didn't want me anywhere near the 'Free Loafers,' as she called them. Back then life in the Dirt Belt didn't seem anywhere near comparable to life in the Paradise Worlds, and I can only imagine how much worse it might be after being so close to a war, so I decided that I needed to do something to help.`
			`	"Now, can you take me to <destination>? I wish to hand this over to the government there to help them. It may not seem like much in the grand scheme of how many credits go into running a planet, but it should be a huge boost to their economy."`
			choice
				`	"Alright, I'll help you."`
					goto accept
				`	"What makes you think they won't hand it over to your father?"`
				`	"This is a crime. I don't want to get in trouble helping you."`
					goto decline
			
			`	Diana pauses. "I hadn't thought of that," she says in a downtrodden tone, "but I at least have to try! Please just bring me to <planet>. Please!" Diana looks up at you with puppy dog eyes, quivering her lip with the backpack of credit chips held against her chest.`
			choice
				`	"Alright, I'll bring you to <planet>."`
				`	"Sorry, but I'm not putting myself on the line for this."`
					goto decline
			
			label accept
			`	"Excellent!" Diana yells out. She drops the bag of credits on the floor and gives you a hug. "We'll have to leave immediately, for I fear that the spaceport authorities here might be searching for us."`
				launch
			
			label decline
			`	You call the spaceport authorities and tell them that Diana Howl is on your ship. Moments later when they arrive, they take Diana kicking and screaming off of your ship. She yells harsh profanities at you as she is taken away, one among them being "Syndicate lover." As a reward for "catching" Diana, the spaceport authorities transfer 150,000 credits to your account.`
				decline
			
	on decline
		payment 150000
		log "People" "Diana Howl" `A teenager who stole half a billion credits from her family's wealth, you turned her in to the authorities for a meagre reward.`
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but realize that Diana is in one of your escorts that hasn't entered the system yet. Better depart and wait for it to arrive.`



mission "Paradise Fortune 3"
	landing
	name `Last Hope`
	description `Escape from the Navy and travel to <destination> where Diana Howl hopes that the Free Worlds will help her.`
	destination "Bourne"
	passengers 1
	to offer
		has "Paradise Fortune 2: done"
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`Diana is eager to get going as soon as you land. "This is going to be great! I'm going to do so much good with this! I can't wait to see the look on their faces when I open up my backpack in front of them!" Diana says rapidly as she bounces up and down with the backpack of credit chips on her back.`
			`	As you gather a few credits to bring with you in case you see something you want to buy, Diana bounces off the ship. Suddenly, her crazed rambling stops. Diana comes running back onto the ship yelling "We need to go! Fly to <destination>! The Free Worlds should protect me!"`
			choice
				`	"What is it? What's happening?"`
				`	(Launch immediately.)`
					launch
			
			`	"Look outside," Diana says with a ghastly look on her face. You check your ship's external cameras, and roaming around your ship is a group of men in Navy uniforms. One of them raises a megaphone to his mouth.`
			`	"Hand over the girl and her credits and we can all walk away from this peacefully, Captain."`
			choice
				`	"Why do you need her?"`
				`	"Over my dead body!"`
					goto launch
				`	"Alright, I'll bring her out."`
					goto agree
			
			`	"In case you haven't noticed, Captain, that girl is in possession of over half a billion stolen credits. She's a criminal, and helping her makes you a criminal too. Given your status, Captain <last>, I'd appreciate it if you didn't make me the officer that put <first> <last> behind bars."`
			choice
				`	"I'm sorry officer, but I can't help you."`
					goto launch
				`	"Okay, I'll hand her over."`
			
			label agree
			`	Diana looks to you in shock. "You wouldn't!" she screeches. "You can't! Fly me to <planet> right now!"`
			choice
				`	"I'm not going to become a criminal to fulfill your crazy dream."`
				`	"Okay, we'll fly to <planet>."`
					goto launch
			
			`	You allow the Navy officer and his troops onto your ship, where they apprehend Diana and her stolen credits. They take her kicking and screaming off of your ship. She yells harsh profanities at you as she is taken away, one among them being "Syndicate lover."`
			`	"Thank you for not causing any more trouble, Captain," the officer says to you. He then hands you 500,000 credits for "playing nice" and leaves.`
				decline
			
			label launch
			`	You activate your repulsor engines, sending the Navy troops recoiling away from your ship. As you ascend into space, your computers detect multiple ships targeting you.`
				launch
			
	on accept
		"stored reputation: Republic" = "reputation: Republic"
		"reputation: Republic" <?= -10
	
	on decline
		payment 500000
		log "People" "Diana Howl" `A teenager who stole half a billion credits from her family's wealth, you turned her in to the authorities for a moderate reward.`
	
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but realize that Diana is in one of your escorts that hasn't entered the system yet. Better depart and wait for it to arrive.`
	
	npc evade
		government "Republic"
		personality heroic
		fleet "Large Republic"



mission "Paradise Fortune 4"
	landing
	name `Exchange of Goods`
	description `Travel to <destination> and hand the backpack of credits and Diana Howl's note over to the Navy.`
	source "Bourne"
	destination "New Boston"
	to offer
		has "Paradise Fortune 3: done"
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`While in flight, Diana tells you the stories that she heard of the war. In the Paradise Planets region, they were told that declaring independence and bombing Geminus and Martini was the Free Worlds' first step in overthrowing the Republic.`
			`	"We should talk to Alondo," Diana says. "He'll be able to handle this situation."`
			
			branch epilogue
				has "FW Epilogue: Alondo: offered"
			`	As you're coming in for a landing on Bourne, you receive a message from Alondo. "<first>!" he says. "I just heard that you were in system. Want to meet up for a drink and talk about old times?"`
			choice
				`	"I'd be glad to any other time, but I need your help at the moment."`
					goto conversation
			
			label epilogue
			`	As you're coming in for a landing, you contact Alondo, who is luckily on Bourne. "What have you gotten yourself into?" he responds after you mention that you need his help.`
			choice
				`	"I'll explain the situation when we meet."`
			
			label conversation
			`	You meet with Alondo at his office in the Free Worlds Senate building. After he and Diana exchange greetings, you explain the situation to him.`
			`	"You what?" Alondo responds. "You have to turn her in. The war may be over, Captain, but there is still tension between the Republic and Free Worlds that we cannot have a situation like this exacerbating."`
			`	"You can't do that!" Diana yells in protest. "I thought the Free Worlds were supposed to be all about going against the Republic, but you're just going to give in?"`
			`	"Look here, kid," Alondo says in a stern tone. "The Free Worlds were never about being against the Republic, it was only ever about being against Parliament. There's a big difference there. What you've done is a crime, even to the Free Worlds. We are not about to gain a reputation of harboring criminals of the Republic."`
			`	Diana, instead of protesting further, puts her head down. "I'll be in your ship, Captain," she says. Diana storms off, making an effort to create as much noise as possible with the stomps of her feet.`
			`	"Spoiled kid," Alondo says quietly. "Attitudes like that are why I joined the Southern Defense Pact. Anyway Captain, I suggest you hand her over to the Navy immediately. I'll contact the Republic if you need me to."`
			choice
				`	"Alright, I'll hand her over."`
				`	"Sorry, Alondo, but I agree with her cause."`
					goto agree
			
			action
				set "navy contacted"
			`	Alondo breathes a sigh of relief. "You should probably go check on her. I'll message you where the Navy wants to pick her up."`
				goto end
			
			label agree
			`	"I understand. Please, just don't drag the Free Worlds into this."`
			
			label end
			`	You say goodbye to Alondo and return to your ship. When you arrive and look around, Diana is notably absent. In your pilot's seat she has left her backpack and a written note. The paper has noticeable tear stains in one of the corners.`
			``
			`Dear <first> <last>,`
			`	I don't care about the credits anymore, but I can't go back to my family. I'll be too much of a disgrace, and I can't even imagine looking my parents in the eyes after what I've done. I've left the credits with you. You can do with them as you wish.`
			`	I've taken this chance to escape from my old life. I want to become my own person in the world, and I want to do it on my own. Please don't come looking for me, because wherever I am I'll be happier than when I was with my parents. I've failed myself today, but I'm still going to strive for the betterment of the less fortunate. Thank you for trying to make my dreams come true, even if you couldn't succeed.`
			`	Sincerely,`
			`				Diana W. Howl`
			``
			`	You stare down at the backpack, stuffed full with over half a billion credits.`
			choice
				`	(Hand the credits over to the Navy.)`
				`	(Steal the credits.)`
					goto steal
			
			branch navy
				has "navy contacted"
			`	You fold the note and slip it into the backpack so that you can show it to the Navy to explain why Diana is not with you. You contact the Navy's crime report hotline and tell them that you have the stolen credits. A few minutes later, they respond telling you that a fleet is waiting on <destination> to retrieve the credits.`
				accept
			
			label navy
			action
				clear "navy contacted"
			`	You fold the note and slip it into the backpack so that you can show it to the Navy to explain why Diana is not with you. Alondo sends you a message, telling you that the Navy says they are waiting on <destination> for the credits.`
				accept
			
			label steal
			`	You rip the note apart and begin counting the credits. In total, the backpack contains a whopping 525,894,400 credits. Over half a billion credits richer, you sit down and wonder what you will spend it on.`
				decline
	
	on accept
		"reputation: Republic" >?= "stored reputation: Republic"
	on decline
		payment 525894400
		"reputation: Republic" <?= -1000
		log "People" "Diana Howl" `A teenager who stole half a billion credits from her family's wealth, she decided to start a new life outside the Paradise Planets while you decided to pocket the substantial fortune she left behind to avoid being hunted down.`
	on complete
		payment 1000000
		conversation
			`You spot a fleet of docked Navy ships as you come in for a landing. A small squad of troops gather around your ship after you land. You are greeted by a Navy officer upon exiting your ship and explain to him where Diana is, showing him the note she wrote.`
			`	"That is unfortunate," he responds with a troubled look on his face. "We'll contact the Howl family about this." Before letting you go, the officer hands you <payment>. "This is the reward that Mr. Howl put out for the return of his credits. Thank you for doing the right thing, Captain."`
		log "People" "Diana Howl" `A teenager who stole half a billion credits from her family's wealth, she decided to start a new life outside the Paradise Planets while you dutifully turned in the credits to the authorities to keep the peace. You received a substantial reward for your integrity.`



mission "Northern Blockade"
	minor
	name `Mebsuta Disaster`
	description `<destination> is under attack by pirates. Assist the Republic by delivering <cargo> to the planet as soon as possible.`
	source
		near "Mebsuta" 2 4
	destination "Featherweight"
	cargo "relief supplies" 178
	to offer
		random < 20
		"combat rating" > 200
		"reputation: Republic" >= 0
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`You are approached by a Navy officer. "Are you Captain <last>?" You nod. "Would you be able to assist us? A sizable gang of pirates has occupied <system> and raided the spaceport. A Navy fleet is on its way to eliminate the pirates, but reports from the planet indicate that the spaceport of <planet> is in dire need of supplies. Any building above three stories was badly damaged and everything in the warehouses was either stolen or destroyed. We need a ship to bring <cargo> to them as soon as possible, but there are no available Navy ships capable of doing the job. Would you deliver the supplies for us, Captain?"`
			choice
				`	"I'd be glad to help, Officer."`
					accept
				`	"Sorry, but I'm not traveling in that direction."`
					decline
	
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality staying harvests plunders
		system destination
		fleet "Large Northern Pirates" 3
	npc
		government "Republic"
		personality staying heroic
		system destination
		fleet "Large Republic"
		fleet "Small Republic" 2
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality nemesis staying harvests plunders
		system "Mirzam"
		fleet "Large Northern Pirates"
		fleet "Small Northern Pirates" 3
	
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo on visit"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 7500
		dialog `As the last crate of supplies is loaded off of your ship, the Navy ships defending the system land. The local authorities thank you for helping, and you are paid <payment>.`



mission "Southern Blockade"
	minor
	name `Spaceport Defenses`
	description `<stopovers> are under attack. Drop off <cargo> on these planets and return to <destination> for payment. (<payment>)`
	source
		near "Pherkad" 2 4
		government "Free Worlds"
	stopover "Cornucopia"
	stopover "Solace"
	stopover "Winter"
	cargo "spaceport turrets" 75
	to offer
		random < 20
		"combat rating" > 150
		not "event: Thule becomes independent"
		"reputation: Free Worlds" >= 0
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`A captain in a Free Worlds uniform enters the spaceport and turns on a megaphone. "Attention! The Free Worlds are in need of volunteers able to carry <cargo> to <stopovers> for fortifying the spaceports nearest to the pirate system of Men. Free Worlds ships are currently preoccupied with fighting off a pirate incursion into those systems, and we are unable to spare enough ships for the job. Our hope is that these defenses will deter any future incursions. Payment will be <payment> for the first captain who accepts." The spaceport falls quiet as captains contemplate this offer.`
			choice
				`	(Volunteer.)`
				`	(Ignore.)`
					decline
			
			`	The Free Worlds captain thanks you for offering your help. Spaceport workers load the turrets onto your ship, and the captain tells you to return to <origin> once you have dropped off the turrets for payment.`
				accept
	
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality staying harvests plunders
		system "Kappa Centauri"
		fleet "Large Southern Pirates"
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality nemesis staying harvests plunders
		system "Kappa Centauri"
		fleet "Large Southern Pirates"
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality staying harvests plunders
		system "Yed Prior"
		fleet "Large Southern Pirates"
		fleet "Small Southern Pirates" 2
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality nemesis staying harvests plunders
		system "Yed Prior"
		fleet "Large Southern Pirates"
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality staying harvests plunders
		system "Pherkad"
		fleet "Small Southern Pirates" 3
	npc
		government "Free Worlds"
		personality staying heroic
		system "Kappa Centauri"
		fleet "Large Free Worlds"
	npc
		government "Free Worlds"
		personality staying heroic
		system "Yed Prior"
		fleet "Large Free Worlds"
	npc
		government "Free Worlds"
		personality staying heroic
		system "Pherkad"
		fleet "Large Free Worlds"
	on stopover
		dialog `The last of the defenses are quickly unloaded from your ship, put into place, and activated. A pirate ship attacking the system attempts to follow you down to the surface, but the fire coming from the newly installed spaceport turrets forces the pirate to turn away and flee for orbit. Time to return to <destination>.`
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo on visit"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 5000
		log `Installed spaceport defense turrets on three frontier worlds. The Free Worlds hopes that this will reduce the piracy in the region.`
		dialog `The Free Worlds captain thanks you for helping to fortify the frontier worlds, and pays you <payment>.`



mission "Core Blockade"
	minor
	name `Bad Harvest`
	description `The pirate world of <destination> is experiencing a famine. Warlords of the planet have threatened the Syndicate into giving them food. Deliver <cargo> to the world for <payment>.`
	source
		near "Almach" 2 4
	destination "Deadman's Cove"
	clearance
	cargo "food" 287
	to offer
		random < 20
		"combat rating" > 400
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`In the <origin> spaceport, you are approached by a Syndicate employee. By the looks of his uniform, he works for Syndicated Security. "Hello, Captain. You're a competent pilot, correct?" You nod your head. "Excellent. The Syndicate needs <cargo> transported to <destination>. The pirate world has seen a particularly bad harvest this past season, so much of the population is without sufficient food. Pirate warlords have threatened to begin raiding our freighters and frontier worlds if we don't provide them with food. It's cheaper to do what they want, so we've agreed to the deal, but we don't want to risk any of our own ships being destroyed. The Syndicate will pay you <payment> should you accept and complete this job."`
			choice
				`	"Alright, I'll get my ship ready."`
					accept
				`	"Sorry, but I have better things to be doing."`
					decline
	
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality nemesis staying harvests plunders
		system destination
		fleet "Large Core Pirates" 2
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality nemesis staying harvests plunders
		system "Schedar"
		fleet "Large Core Pirates"
		fleet "Small Core Pirates" 3
	
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo on visit"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 10000
		dialog `Multiple bands of pirates, each run by a different warlord, are waiting in the spaceport when you land. They take the food from your cargo hold like animals, leaving quite the mess behind. When you return to your ship, you find that the Syndicate has deposited <payment> into your account.`



mission "Pirate Blockade"
	minor
	name `Escape to Freedom`
	description `Bring <bunks> escaped slaves to freedom on <destination>, far away from their pirate oppressor. The woman on <origin> promised that a person on <planet> would give you <payment>.`
	source "Buccaneer Bay"
	destination "Hippocrates"
	passengers 19
	to offer
		"combat rating" > 500
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`It is dusk at the <origin> spaceport, and the setting sun casts long shadows across the spaceport deck. You take notice of a slim cloaked figure walking only a few meters behind you who seems to be keeping pace.`
			choice
				`	(Confront them.)`
					goto confront
				`	(Stop walking and see if they stop as well.)`
			
			`	You stop by the entrance to a store that claims to have "the best Polecats!" and lean against the building, trying not to draw attention to yourself. The figure keeps walking at the same pace, and as they pass you, a soft voice says, "Follow me," from under the cloak. The figure bolts off into a dark alleyway next to the building.`
				goto choice
			
			label confront
			`	You turn around and stare right at the figure, who stops within a foot of you. The shadows cast by the sun make it impossible for you to make out their face under the cloak. "Follow me," a soft voice says from under the cloak, before the figure bolts off into a dark alleyway next to the building.`
			
			label choice
			choice
				`	(Follow the figure.)`
				`	(Return to my ship.)`
					decline
			
			`	You step into the alleyway and find the figure standing under a lamp. The figure removes their cloak, revealing the face of a woman with short dark hair and a distinct, jagged scar across her right cheek. She begins whispering to you. "You're not from this world. I can tell. You're too clean and unscarred. Could you help me?"`
			choice
				`	"What do you want?"`
					goto need
				`	"Why would I help a pirate?"`
			
			`	The woman chuckles. "Not everyone who lives on a pirate world is a pirate, you know. Maybe you need to learn how not to stereotype. Regardless..." She trails off.`
			
			label need
			`	"It isn't what I want, it's what I need," she whispers, putting heavy emphasis on the word "need."`
			`	"You undoubtedly know about the horrendous slave trade that still exists on pirate worlds today. A slave trade that the Republic doesn't care to abolish, leaving innocent people to waste away like rats in a cage, working for their lives. As if the politicians of the Republic aren't vermin themselves..." Her face twists into a hate-filled scorn as she speaks of the Republic. It then returns to normal as she continues. "I'm part of a group of people who have decided to take matters into our own hands. We're mostly people who grew up on pirate worlds, but some of us were born elsewhere.`
			`	"I assassinated a pirate warlord a couple of days ago, and I have been sheltering his slaves ever since. What I need from you is to transport the <bunks> people in my care to <destination>. Another member of my group should be there to pay you <payment> and take the people somewhere far away from here." She cocks her head to the right. "Will you fight for justice and transport these people, Captain?" The look in her eyes suggests that she won't take no for an answer.`
			choice
				`	"Anything for the freedom of the innocent."`
				`	"Sorry, but I'm not going to risk my life for your cause."`
					goto decline
			
			`	"Good choice, Captain. We'll wait till the sun has fully set, then I will bring the people to your ship. I'll be traveling in my own ship and launch ahead of you, which should hopefully distract the pirates looking for their warlord's assassin and give you enough room to escape. Wait for me after you land on <planet>."`
				accept
			
			label decline
			action
				set "denied freeing slaves"
			`	"Poor choice, Captain." The woman pulls a knife from under her cloak and tilts it to blind you with the glare of the lamp above her. You stumble backward in anticipation of an attack, but the woman does not move. "I'll remember this, Captain," she hisses at you. The woman puts her cloak back up and sprints down the alleyway into darkness.`
				decline
	
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality nemesis staying harvests plunders
		system destination
		fleet "Large Core Pirates"
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality nemesis staying harvests plunders
		system "Persian"
		fleet "Small Core Pirates" 3
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality nemesis staying harvests plunders
		fleet "Large Core Pirates"
	
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet> and begin looking around for the man you are supposed to meet, but then you realize that not all of the escaped slaves are here. Better depart and wait for your escorts holding the rest to arrive.`
	on complete
		payment
		payment 1000
		log `Helped members of a group fighting to end slavery on pirate worlds. Safely rescued 19 slaves from Buccaneer Bay and left them with a man who said that they will be brought somewhere safer, but the woman of the group seems to have not made it out.`
		conversation
			`Just as was promised, a man approaches you in the spaceport and tells you that he is part of the same group as the woman. Interestingly, the man has a similar scar as the woman on his left cheek. "I'll make sure these people find a safe home somewhere far away from here," he says to you. After greeting each of your former passengers, he thanks you and pays you <payment>.`
			`	You and the man, who does not give his name to you in order to "keep us both safe," wait for the woman to arrive in her own ship. Hours pass, but there is no sign of her. The man tries to contact her, but he is unable to reach her. "You can leave now," the man says to you. "I don't think she'll be coming."`



mission "Capture Smuggler"
	name "Capture rogue smuggler"
	minor
	description `A smuggler absconded with his illegal cargo near <system>. The unknown person he stole it from wants it back. Recover the cargo from the <npc> and return both it and the smuggler to <origin> for <payment>.`
	to offer
		random < 15
		"combat rating" > 2000
		"reputation: Pirate" > 10
	passengers 1
	source
		government "Pirate"
	on offer
		require "Brig"
		conversation
			`As you step into a dive bar for a quick drink, the largest man you've ever seen stands up and blocks your path. He's well over two meters tall, and his muscles seem to ripple with barely restrained violence when he moves. "<first> <last>," he says in a thick accent. "My employer hears you do certain jobs, take money, do not ask questions. He hears you are reliable. A man, a smuggler, he steals cargo from my employer. My employer very much wants cargo returned, and this man as well."`
			choice
				`	"I'm sorry, sir, but I'm not taking new jobs today. Please give your employer my most gracious thanks for this kind offer."`
				`	"Of course. I won't say a word."`
					goto accept
				`	"Get out of my way. I don't take jobs from any schlub who bothers me when I need a drink."`
					goto mistake

			`	The man looks down at you with no change in expression. "My employer, he will not be happy. I will tell him, '<first> <last> is not so reliable.' I hope next time, you are reliable." As the man speaks, you notice that his teeth are filed to vicious points. Every patron in the bar stares at you in shock as you sit down for a badly-needed drink.`
				decline

			label accept
			`	The man looks down at you with no change in expression. "This is good. To be reliable, it is a great thing on <origin>." As the man speaks, you notice that his teeth are filed to vicious points. He holds out a round, flat object about the size of your palm. It has a recessed button in the center of one side. "This is gift for this smuggler. Press button, it becomes surprise. Make sure surprise is not on you." He hands you the object and a data chip containing details of the job. As the man leaves, you see every patron in the bar staring warily at his back.`
				accept

			label mistake
			`	The man looks down at you with no change in expression. "This is great shame. I will tell my employer, '<first> <last> was not so reliable. I had to make example.'" The man grabs your neck with one monstrous hand. The last thing you see as your vision fades to black is a mouth full of pointed teeth.`
				die
	npc board
		conversation
			`The smuggler and his crew are ready and waiting when you board. You pull out the "gift" and press the button, then quickly toss it down the hallway. For a moment, you meet the smuggler's eyes. They widen with terror when he sees the "gift." You duck back into cover. A few seconds later, you hear a strangely muted detonation, followed by silence. After a minute, you hazard another peek out of cover. The smuggler and all his men are unconscious on the ground. One crewman has blood dripping from his nose and ears. You tie them all up and stow the smuggler in a locked cabin on your ship.`
			`	Once they're secured, you sweep the ship. Ultimately you find the stolen cargo in the captain's cabin, hidden behind a false panel. The cargo is a nondescript storage container, but upon closer inspection you see that it's code-locked and covered with Interference Plating.`
				launch
		government "Merchant"
		personality staying uninterested timid target marked
		system
			distance 2 3
		fleet
			names "civilian"
			variant
				"Modified Argosy (Smuggler)"
	on fail
		dialog `You have failed to capture the smuggler and recover the stolen cargo. This will probably not be good for your reputation.`
		"reputation: Pirate" <?= -10
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <origin>, but you don't have the smuggler and the cargo he stole. You should probably be careful not to run into your contact until you do.`
	on complete
		payment 150000
		conversation
			`The huge man drags the unconscious smuggler out of the cargo container with one hand and carries the cargo box with the other. He stops in front of you. "<first> <last>," he says. "My employer, he will be very happy. Your payment, you will receive soon. Is it not good, to be reliable?" The man leaves your ship, letting the smuggler's legs scrape along the ground as he walks. A moment later, you receive <payment> from an anonymous account.`



mission "Inheritance Redirection"
	description "Travel to <destination> to act as heir for the late warlord Limping Pappa."
	minor
	source
		attributes "frontier"
	destination
		distance 7 9
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate"
	to offer
		credits >= 400000
	on accept
		payment -200000
	on offer
		conversation
			`You are walking near the spaceport and suddenly a computer terminal starts blinking and beeping when you pass it.`
			choice
				`	(Check it out.)`
				`	(Ignore it.)`
					decline
			`When you approach, you are greeted by a voice from the terminal: "Dear Sir or Madam, please respond!"`
			choice
				`	"Hello!"`
				`	(Ignore it and walk away.)`
					decline
			`	"My name is Mr. Smith and I'm contacting you with a highly confidential and urgent proposal. I am, or more accurately was, the financial manager of the recently deceased warlord Limping Pappa. I am looking for a highly trustworthy individual who can help me relocate Mr. Pappa's fortune of 300 million credits."`
			choice
				`	"How did Mr. Pappa acquire his fortune exactly?"`
				`	"What are you proposing?"`
					goto proposal
				`	"This sounds like a credits-stealing scam, I will not fall for this!"`
					decline
			`	"Oh, uh, Mr. Pappa was specialized into tricking rich victims to transfer credits to him.`
			label proposal
			`	"I obviously cannot make myself an heir to Mr. Pappa. So what I propose is to present you as an heir and have the inheritance transferred to you.`
			`	"When you receive the inheritance on <destination>, then you send half of it back to me."`
			choice
				`	"Okay, let's do this."`
				`	"Sounds too good to be true. What's the catch?"`
				`	"Sorry, this sounds too fishy for me."`
					decline
			`	Mr. Smith responds: "There is one small problem with the inheritance tax, it needs to be paid upfront. Can you pay 200,000 credits so that I can get the process going?"`
			choice
				`	"Sure, no problem."`
					goto pay
				`	"Are you trying to trick me?"`
				`	"Sounds too risky, I don't want to pay anything upfront."`
					goto no
			`	"Of course I'm not trying to trick you! Mr. Pappa's victims were all persons that had more credits than common sense. But you look a lot smarter than any of Mr. Pappa's victims.`
			`	"Think of the huge amount of credits you will receive just for acting as heir! Can I count on you to pay the tax and make both of us very wealthy?"`
			choice
				`	"Sure, no problem."`
					goto pay
				`	"Sounds too risky, I don't want to pay anything upfront."`
					goto no
			label pay
			`	The terminal suddenly goes black after you transfer 200,000 credits to the account given by Mr. Smith.`
			`	You wonder if you did the right thing.`
				accept
			label no
			`	The terminal suddenly goes black. Mr. Smith is apparently no longer interested in doing business with you.`
				decline
	on complete
		dialog "There is no inheritance for Mr. Pappa waiting for you at the bank, but there are many other victims that paid some credits while expecting to earn a larger amount of credits in return. Some make a big fuss about it, until the alerted authorities start fining them for attempted inheritance fraud. You leave the bank in silence."
		log "Minor People" "Mr. Smith" `A mysterious individual who asked for 200,000 credits to process a rich inheritance from the deceased warlord Limping Pappa, but was then proven to be a scam.`
	on decline
		log "Minor People" "Mr. Smith" `A mysterious individual who asked for 200,000 credits to process a rich inheritance from the deceased warlord Limping Pappa. You presume he was a scammer and had no part in it.`



mission "Hauler VI cargo prototype 1"
	name "Escort Hauler prototype to formal dinner"
	description "Escort the <npc> to <destination> to deliver sushi for a formal dinner."
	minor
	source
		planet "Deep"
	destination "Skymoot"
	to offer
		"armament deterrence" > 0
	npc accompany save
		government "Merchant"
		personality escort timid
		ship "Hauler III" "SB-Labs Testament"
	on offer
		conversation
			`A lady in a formal business suit walks gracefully over to you. "Captain <last>, Captain <last>! It is so nice to meet you here!"`
			choice
				`	"Hello, did we meet before? How do you know my name?"`
				`	"Hello, nice to meet you too."`
					goto "hello too"
				`	"Sorry, I don't have time to talk. I'm really busy."`
					defer
			`	She smiles and replies, "Well, I actually don't know you, but I just read your name on one of the cargo manifests. And my experience is that this greeting works best if you need something from a spaceship captain."`
			label "hello too"
			`	She says, "My name is Veronica Oxygenpocket, and I'm the lead for a team that's designing the new Hauler VI transport ship series at Southbound Shipyards."`
			choice
				`	"'Oxygenpocket' is an uncommon name."`
				`	"And what help do you need from me?"`
					goto "help request"
			`	Veronica responds, "Well, it might sound uncommon to people from a planet with a breathable atmosphere, but it is actually similar to Vanderberg, which means 'from the mountain,' or Langley, which means 'woodland.'`
			`	"Oxygenpockets were as much a feature on my home-planet as mountains and woodlands are on more habitable planets."`
			label "help request"
			`	Veronica pauses for a moment and then continues, "We're testing the VI's cargo refrigeration system using the Testament, a modified Hauler III. This system is one of our biggest achievements. To show how well it works, we plan to throw a formal dinner on <destination> with fresh sushi transported from here. I'm sure everyone at the dinner will be amazed by how well the food has been preserved despite the travel time. I'd like you to escort the ship and its cargo to <planet>."`
			choice
				`	"Isn't it a bit risky to transport food using a refrigeration system that hasn't been tested yet?"`
					goto refrigerate
				`	"Am I also invited for the dinner?"`
					goto invited
				`	"Why do you need me to escort the ship?"`
					goto internal
				`	"Shouldn't you be making the Hauler IV first?"`
				`	"Sure, I'll help you."`
					accept
			`	Veronica softly chuckles. "That would be the obvious choice, wouldn't it be? But this isn't just a case of slapping another cargo pod between the cockpit and engines. We've modified the design to have the optimal amount of cargo pods without compromising the integrity of the vessel, or making it difficult to build in our existing shipyards. And besides, our marketing department has found that captains willing to buy a Hauler IV are just as willing to buy larger Haulers."`
			choice
				`	"Isn't it a bit risky to transport food using a refrigeration system that hasn't been tested yet?"`
				`	"Am I also invited for the dinner?"`
					goto invited
				`	"Why do you need me to escort the ship?"`
					goto internal
			label "refrigerate"
			`	"Risky, why? I don't see what can go wrong. The system is quite well designed. I'm so proud of my team."`
			choice
				`	"Am I also invited for the dinner?"`
				`	"Why do you need me to escort the ship?"`
					goto internal
			label "invited"
			`	"I'm sorry, but you are not invited. This dinner is only for Southbound Shipyards top-level management and representatives of the <planet> government.`
			label "internal"
			`	"Normally we'd look internally to satisfy any escort needs, that's true. But we suspect there is a mole in our organization spying for Syndicated Shipyards. Going externally is safer in this case, and you came recommended when we searched through the list of captains available on short notice. You will be paid well for your time. Will you help us?"`
			choice
				`	"Sure, I'll help you."`
					accept
				`	"Sorry, I don't have time to help you."`
					decline
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but the Testament hasn't caught up with you yet. Better take off and wait for it to appear in this system.`
	on complete
		dialog
			`You wait for the Testament to land, but it remains in orbit. There is no response to your hails. Maybe you should take off and investigate.`

mission "Hauler VI cargo prototype 2"
	name "Escort Hauler prototype to <planet>"
	description "Escort the <npc> to <destination> to deliver cooked fish dishes to a streetfood festival."
	source "Skymoot"
	destination "Zug"
	landing
	to offer
		has "Hauler VI cargo prototype 1: done"
	npc accompany save
		government "Merchant"
		personality escort timid
		ship "Hauler III" "SB-Labs Testament"
	on enter
		dialog
			`You take off and try to contact Veronica, but you receive an angry message: "Why were you trying to contact me? Does everyone need to know that we're here?"`
			`	She adds, "The cooling failed and the sushi nearly cooked. Let's go to the Southbound Shipyards on <destination> instead, then we can save face by claiming that we were in time for the dinner, but on the wrong planet due to some miscommunication. We might even be able to hide all evidence of the overheating by giving away the sushi as fish dishes on a streetfood festival."`
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but the Testament didn't catch up with you yet.`
	on complete
		dialog
			`This time the Testament appears to be landing right behind you, but the ship flies away at full thrust just before touching the landing pad. You receive another message: "The Sushi completely burned. We cannot be seen near the festival or near the shipyard with this burned sushi! Our new destination is the waste processing plant at Longjump."`

mission "Hauler VI cargo prototype 3"
	name "Escort Hauler prototype to waste plant"
	description "Escort the <npc> to <destination> to deliver charred food waste to a waste-processing plant."
	destination "Longjump"
	landing
	to offer
		has "Hauler VI cargo prototype 2: done"
	npc accompany save
		government "Merchant"
		personality escort timid
		ship "Hauler III" "SB-Labs Testament"
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but the Testament didn't catch up with you yet.`
	on complete
		payment 140000
		dialog
			`The Testament enters the planet's atmosphere at high speed and lands somewhat uncontrolled near a waste processing plant. The cargo hold is glowing red hot and some areas in the cargo hold appear to be on fire.`
			`	Veronica disembarks, walks over to you, and apologizes for the difficult trip. She explains that the cooling systems failed, causing the sushi calamity you experienced during the multiple legs of your journey.`
			`	You are paid <payment> and she asks you not to talk about this escort job to anybody. You leave the docks quickly in order to escape the horrible smell of overheated fish that is coming from Veronica and her ship.`



mission "Antibiotics To South"
	name "Antibiotics shipment to <planet>"
	description `Deliver <cargo> to <destination>. Payment is <payment>. Expect attacks from a pirate ship known as the "Australis."`
	minor
	source
		attributes "medical"
		not attributes "south" "rim"
		near "Sol" 100
	destination
		attributes "south"
	to offer
		"combat rating" > 10
		"armament deterrence" > 2
		random < 5
	cargo "antibiotics" 25 2 .05
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you wander around the spaceport, you spot a well-dressed man who seems to be eyeing your ship. When you approach him, he turns to you and asks, "Is this your ship? I'm looking for someone in charge of a heavily armed fleet."`
			choice
				`	"It is. Why?"`
				`	"Sorry, I think you're mistaken."`
					decline
			`	The man begins to explain himself. "I'm arranging a shipment from a pharmaceutical plant here on <origin> to <destination>. Specifically, <cargo>. I'm sure you're aware of the fact that they're in very high demand in the south, so we have a trade deal with that planet. Unfortunately, <commodity> are in even higher demand in pirate territory, so the last two merchants I've sent down there have been attacked by pirate ships. My company won't give the budget for an escort, so anyone I send down there has to be alone. Fortunately, I do have the budget for a high-risk contract, so if you can take one of these shipments to <destination>, I can arrange a payment of <payment>. Does this sound fair so far?"`
			choice
				`	"Sure, but do you know anything about these pirates?"`
				`	"No thanks, that sounds too risky for me."`
					decline
			`	He seems to have anticipated this question, and quickly responds by saying "Oh, it's mostly just opportunistic raiders, much like the ones you've probably already seen a lot of down there. Pretty sure a ship like this one will make those guys hesitant enough. The problem is a modified medium warship called the <npc>. It's faster than a Bounder and persistent beyond any reasonable measure. Which is, of course, why I'm talking to you. There is no way you're going to avoid a fight with it. However, I think your ship is a match for it. So, is this acceptable?"`
			choice
				`	"Of course."`
				`	"No thanks, that sounds like too much of a risk."`
					decline
			`	"Thank you very much, Captain," he says. "I'll take care of everything else from here."`
				accept
	npc
		government "Bounty Hunter"
		personality nemesis heroic disables harvests plunders
			confusion 20
		system
			distance 2 3
		ship "Marauder Manta (Engines)" "Australis"
	
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo on visit"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 20000
		dialog phrase "generic cargo delivery payment"



mission "Pirate Duel"
	name "Fight at Umbral"
	description `Head as quickly as you can to the Umbral system, where you will duel with a small militia vessel named the Esca. After fighting, go to <destination> to follow up.`
	minor
	deadline 5 1
	source
		near "Tarazed" 1 5
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds"
	mark "Umbral"
	destination "Wayfarer"
	to offer
		"combat rating" > 20
		"combat rating" < 400
		random < 35
		not "ships: Medium Warship"
		not "ships: Heavy Warship"
		not "ships: Heavy Freighter"
		not "ships: Space Liner"
		not "ships: Utility"
		not "ships: Superheavy"
		"ships: Light Warship" + "ships: Light Freighter" + "ships: Transport" + "ships: Interceptor" + "ships: Fighter" + "ships: Drone" == 1
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`While you are walking around the spaceport, you accidentally bump into a sturdily-built man. "Oh, I'm sorry," he responds in a gruff voice. When he takes a closer look at you, his expression changes to shock. "Oh! You're Captain <last>!"`
			choice
				`	"How did you know my name?"`
					goto offer
				`	"I don't know who you're talking about."`
			`	The man's expression changes to one of slight disappointment. "Oh. I see." He walks away without another word.`
				decline
			label offer
			`	"I happen to take an interest in young pioneering privateers, and your performance, even in a small vessel like the <ship>, has impressed me greatly. I'll tell you more if you let me take you somewhere."`
			choice
				`	"Sure, I'll follow."`
					goto follow
				`	"Where are you taking me?"`
			`	The man chuckles nervously. "Just to somewhere more private. Don't worry, I won't bite."`
			choice
				`	"Fine, I'll go."`
				`	"I still don't buy this. I'm out."`
					decline
			label follow
			`	You follow the man into a series of winding alleyways, keeping your eyes alert for any danger. After a while, the man stops. "I suppose I can tell you more about myself now. I... am the leader of the local militia, and I believe that, considering your proficiency in piloting smaller craft, you would be a great candidate to join our team. However, there is a test you must pass. I will use one of our smaller ships in our fleet, the Esca, to challenge you to a duel in the system of Umbral. If you manage to disable me, go to our base in Wayfarer, and I'll let you join."`
			choice
				`	"What sort of vessel is the Esca?"`
					goto vessel
				`	"Why did you need to bring me to here? Couldn't you have made this offer in the spaceport?"`
			`	The man hesitates for a moment. "Well, being in the open when admitting that you're the leader of the ragtag that hunts down pirates in a potentially pirate-infested spaceport isn't a good idea. You can't ever be too sure about who's listening.`
				goto end
			label vessel
			`	The man hesitates for a moment. "Oh, just some low-end Southbound Shipyards light warship. Nothing to worry about for a captain like you.`
			label end
			`	"Well, I better be going now. Meet me at Umbral as fast as you can if you want to take up my challenge." The man walks away, leaving you to your own devices.`
			choice
				`	(Ready my ship for the battle with the Esca.)`
					accept
				`	(Ignore the invitation.)`
					decline
	
	on accept
		"reputation: Independent (Killable)" = 10
	
	on enter
		dialog `When you take off, you run a quick scan on all other ships that are taking off. You see no sign of the Esca. Maybe it's already waiting for you at Umbral.`
	on enter "Umbral"
		unmark "Umbral"
		"reputation: Independent (Killable)" = -1000
		conversation
			branch "killed anglerfish"
				has "anglerfish dead"
			branch "disabled anglerfish"
				has "anglerfish disabled"
			branch "caught anglerfish"
				has "anglerfish caught"
			`When you enter Umbral, you continue to see no sign of the Esca. Suddenly, an alarm rings out as your sensors detect that a pirate Vanguard has entered the system alongside you. Before you can respond, your ship intercepts a hail, and it opens communication.`
			`	The voice of the alleged captain of the Esca shouts out towards you. "Ho ho ho! Did you really think that I was the leader of the militia? Well, considering that you're here, I suppose you did. And now you'll pay for your mistake! Don't bother trying to call for help either, the militia don't patrol this system!"`
			`	The Vanguard powers up its weapons.`
				decline
			label "killed anglerfish"
			`You enter Umbral, but see no sign of the Esca, as the "captain of the Esca" was killed. You should head back to Wayfarer to see if you can claim some sort of reward.`
				decline
			label "disabled anglerfish"
			`You enter Umbral, but see no sign of the Esca, as the "captain of the Esca" was on the ship you disabled. You should head back to make sure the Anglerfish has been fully destroyed.`
				decline
			label "caught anglerfish"
			action
				clear "anglerfish caught"
			`As you enter Umbral, the Anglerfish follows behind you, and opens a hail.`
			`	"Did you think that if you went to Umbral, I would switch to a smaller ship? Ha!"`
			`	The Anglerfish once again powers up its weapons.`
				decline
	
	npc kill
		government "Independent (Killable)"
		personality heroic vindictive unconstrained launching
			confusion 20
		ship "Vanguard (Plasma Slow)" "Anglerfish"
		on provoke
			unmark "Umbral"
			"reputation: Independent (Killable)" = -1000
			set "anglerfish caught"
			conversation
				`As soon as you open fire, the Anglerfish hails you.`
				`	A voice you recognize as the "captain of the Esca" says, "How did you know that was me? Well, it doesn't matter, because I've paid off the militia. Get ready to die, small-fry."`
				`	The Anglerfish powers up its weapons.`
					decline
		on disable
			set "anglerfish disabled"
		on kill
			clear "anglerfish disabled"
			set "anglerfish dead"
			conversation
				branch "orbiting tarazed"
					has "flagship system: Tarazed"
				branch "passed tarazed"
					not "anglerfish caught"
				`The Anglerfish and the "captain of the Esca" have been destroyed. You should continue on to Wayfarer to see if you can claim some sort of reward for your effort.`
					decline
				label "passed tarazed"
				`The Anglerfish and the "captain of the Esca" have been destroyed. You should head back to Wayfarer to see if you can claim some sort of reward for your effort.`
					decline
				label "orbiting tarazed"
				`The Anglerfish and the "captain of the Esca" have been destroyed. You should land on Wayfarer to see if you can claim some sort of reward for your effort.`
	
	on complete
		"reputation: Independent (Killable)" = 10
		payment 250000
		conversation
			`When you land on Wayfarer, you look up bounties and wanted pirate documents, searching for any mention of the Anglerfish and the Esca. Eventually, you find a bounty for the destruction of the Anglerfish.`
			choice
				`	(Take the bounty money.)`
					goto end
				`	(Read more about the bounty.)`
			`	You decide to read more of the bounty documents. It appears that the pirate that you killed was Enrico Snake, a pirate that mainly dealt in cargo smuggling. However, he also had a curious tick of hunting aspiring privateers by luring them to Umbral, where he easily took them out with his superior ship.`
			label end
			`	You head to the local authorities, and show them your combat logs of your fight against the Anglerfish. They pay you <payment> for your effort.`

ship "Vanguard" "Vanguard (Plasma Slow)"
	outfits
		"Plasma Cannon" 7
		"Heavy Anti-Missile Turret"
		"Fusion Reactor"
		Supercapacitor
		"D14-RN Shield Generator"
		"Fuel Pod" 5
		"Small Radar Jammer" 2
		"Interference Plating" 4
		"Cargo Expansion" 3
		"Laser Rifle" 11
		"X3700 Ion Thruster"
		"X3200 Ion Steering"
		"Scram Drive"



mission "Earth Retirement"
	name "Retired Family to Earth"
	description "Transport two seniors to <destination>, where they plan to retire. They can only promise you <payment>."
	minor
	source
		attributes paradise
	destination "Earth"
	to offer
		random < 15
	passengers 2
	
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you wander through the spaceport, you see an elderly man and woman sitting on a bench, talking about something that seems to be causing them some amount of stress.`
			choice
				`	(Ask them what the problem is.)`
				`	(Ignore them.)`
					decline
			`	You inquire as to what's troubling them, and the woman begins telling you her life's story. "We were yard workers here on <origin> for nearly fifty years, but we're both starting to get too old for our jobs. So, we've made the hard decision to retire. We've already chosen a location on the best place we could afford, which... well, happened to be on Earth, so Charles and I are looking for someone to transport us. Oh, where are my manners? I'm Donna. Pleased to meet you."`
			`	Donna was clearly looking for someone besides her husband to talk to, but Charles begins to frown. "I suppose you could put it like that."`
			`	"Is that wrong?" Donna replies anxiously, bracing for the response.`
			`	The man's look of resignation starts to turn to one of anger. "Of course it's wrong. We've spent our whole lives working for these spoiled brats, and what do we get in return? We get dumped on Earth like we're dead weight!"`
			`	"I know you're upset about this," interrupts Donna, "but just getting angry isn't going to change anything!" Charles remains silent for a long time, and then mutters a reluctant apology.`
			`	Donna talks to you again. "I'm sorry about that. As you can tell, we're under a lot of stress right now. I can tell that you're a star captain. Can you help take us to Earth? We don't have a lot of money, but we'll be glad to pay <payment>."`
			choice
				`	"I can handle two passengers."`
				`	"I'm sorry, but I'm not headed to Earth right now."`
					decline
			`	You show Charles and Donna to their bunks, and they both thank you in advance.`
				accept
	
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic passenger on visit"
	on complete
		conversation
			`Once you land on Earth, Donna and Charles pick up their belongings and start to leave your ship. Before he leaves, Charles stops and takes out a large clump of credit chips. "Here you go," he mutters. "I hope your life goes better than ours has."`
			choice
				`	"Thank you. I hope you have the best of luck on Earth."`
					goto payment
				`	"You can keep those. You sound like you need them more than I do."`
					goto reject
			
			label payment
			action
				payment 2000 80
			`	As you count up the large clump of credits you were handed (the sum comes out to the expected <payment>), they slowly make their way to the train station. Presumably, their new apartment is far from here.`
				accept
			label reject
			`	Charles looks surprised for a moment, and then, for the first time you've seen, he smiles. "Thank you, Captain <last>. I wish there were more people like you in the Paradise Worlds."`
			`	You wish the couple the best of luck on Earth, and they slowly make their way to the train station. Presumably, their new apartment is far from here.`



mission "Spacediving professionals"
	job
	repeat
	name "Spacediving at <planet>"
	description "Head to <destination> with <bunks> professionally equipped skydivers and drop them from the edge of space. They've agreed to pay <payment> when they land."
	passengers 5 10
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
	destination
		distance 1 7
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
		not attributes "station" "research" "moon"
	to offer
		random < 14
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic passenger on visit"
	on complete
		payment 120000
		dialog "As you descend through the upper atmosphere, the skydivers jump from your ship, spectacularly diving until they open their parachutes and land safely near the spaceport. You collect your payment of <payment>."



mission "Spacediving professionals accident"
	job
	repeat
	name "Spacediving at <planet>"
	description "Head to <destination> with <bunks> professionally equipped skydivers and drop them from the edge of space. They've agreed to pay <payment> when they land."
	"apparent payment" 120000
	passengers 5 10
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
	destination
		distance 1 7
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
		not attributes "station" "research" "moon"
	to offer
		"Spacediving professionals: done" > 7
		random < 2
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic passenger on visit"
	on complete
		dialog "As you descend through the upper atmosphere, the skydivers jump from your ship, spectacularly diving until they try to open their parachutes. Some of the parachutes open only partially and part of the team suffers an uncontrolled hard landing. Medical teams respond quickly, but the skydivers are too preoccupied with their injured teammates to pay you the credits they owe you."



mission "Spacediving professionals disaster"
	job
	repeat
	name "Spacediving at <planet>"
	description "Head to <destination> with <bunks> professionally equipped skydivers and drop them from the edge of space. They've agreed to pay <payment> when they land."
	"apparent payment" 120000
	passengers 5 10
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
	destination
		distance 1 7
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
		not attributes "station" "research" "moon"
	to offer
		has "Spacediving professionals accident: done"
		random < 1
		credits >= 5000000
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic passenger on visit"
	on complete
		payment -200000
		dialog "As you descend through the upper atmosphere, the skydivers jump from your ship. Some minutes into the jump disaster strikes; the skydivers start moving in an uncontrolled manner. It's unclear if the spacesuits or the oxygen supplies were at fault, but it looks unlikely that any of the skydivers makes it safely to the ground. Authorities investigate the incident and although they don't find serious wrongdoings on your part, they still fine you <payment> for enabling such a dangerous and deadly act."



mission "Spacediving amateurs"
	job
	repeat
	name "Spacediving at <planet>"
	description "Head to <destination> with <bunks> poorly equipped skydivers and drop them from the edge of space. They've agreed to pay <payment> when they land."
	"apparent payment" 120000
	passengers 5 10
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
	destination
		distance 1 7
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
		not attributes "station" "research" "moon"
	to offer
		"Spacediving professionals: done" > 3
		random < 5
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic passenger on visit"
	on complete
		payment 30000
		dialog "As you descend through the upper atmosphere, you inform your skydivers that it's time to jump. However, after being able to see the distances and atmospheric conditions involved, all of them are far less keen on the idea than when you first picked them up. You bring them down to the landing pad, and they pay you a meager <payment> before hopping off."


mission "Human to Hai Space - No Contact"
	minor
	source
		government "Republic" "Syndicate" "Free Worlds"
		attributes "tourism" "urban"
	to offer
		random < 2
		not "First Contact: Hai: offered"
		not "event: hai-human resolution announced"
	on offer
		conversation
			`	A young man carrying luggage approaches you. "You look like a knowledgeable captain," he says. "In all your travels, have you ever heard tell of any... intelligent rodents?"`
			choice
				`	"What are you talking about?"`
					goto confused
				`	"What, like in a zoo?"`
					goto confused
				`	"Are you high?"`
			`	"No, I want to go to the high-" He stops once he realizes you have no idea what he's talking about. "Oh, never mind then," he says, with a note of disappointment in his voice. As he leaves, you can't help feeling like you were missing some context.`
				decline
			label confused
			`	"Oh, never mind then," he says, with a note of disappointment in his voice. As he leaves, you can't help feeling like you were missing some context.`
				decline


mission "Human to Hai Space"
	minor
	description "Bring a human passenger to <destination> in Hai space."
	passengers 1
	source
		government "Republic" "Syndicate" "Free Worlds"
		attributes "tourism" "urban"
	destination "Greenwater"
	to offer
		random < 10
		or
			has "First Contact: Hai: offered"
			has "event: hai-human resolution announced"
		not "Human to Hai Space - No Contact: offered"
	on offer
		conversation
			`	A young man carrying luggage approaches you. "You look like a knowledgeable captain," he says. "In all your travels, have you ever heard tell of any... intelligent rodents?"`
			choice
				`	"'Heard tell'? I'm from Hai space!"`
					to display
						has "hai space start"
					goto origin
				`	"You mean the Hai? You'll have to go up north for that."`
					goto hai
				`	"Ah, I think I know of some large squirrels to the north of here."`
					goto hai
				`	"What are you talking about?"`
					to display
						not "event: hai-human resolution announced"
			`	"Oh, never mind then," he says, with a note of disappointment in his voice. You feel good knowing that you are helping to keep the Hai's existence a secret in human space. Better safe than sorry.`
				decline
			
			label origin
			`	He seems shocked. "Really? I can give you <payment> to get to <planet>."`
				goto choice
			label hai
			`	"If that's the case, could you bring me to <destination>? I'll give you <payment>."`
			label choice
			choice
				`	"Actually, I'm from <planet>."`
					to display
						has "hai space start"
				`	"Alright, I'll take you there."`
					accept
				`	"Sorry, I'm too busy right now."`
					decline
				`	"Why would you want to go all the way out to <planet>?"`
					goto explain
			`	"No way, you as well?" He stops for a second to process. "They say the universe is a small place, but I never believed any of that. Until now, that is. And to think I'd meet someone like you on my first time out of the wormhole."`
				goto "human space"
			label explain
			`	"I have family there," he says. "I came out here to do some traveling and see a bit of human space, but now I have to get back home. You see, I was born on <planet>, and this is my first time out of the wormhole."`
			label "human space"
			choice
				`	"Really? How did you like human space?"`
					goto travel
				`	"You've never been to human space before?"`
			`	"Nope, first time! I've never been so far from home before. Now that I think about it, I probably should've arranged transport back to Hai space beforehand. You wouldn't believe how hard it is to find a captain here that knows about the Hai. I had to ask about six others until I found you. They all thought I was crazy, talking about meeting giant squirrels." He laughs and shakes his head. "So anyways, would you be willing to take me to <destination>?"`
				goto decision
			
			label travel
			`	"It was quite the trip! It's a bit odd to see only humans around, and I had to be careful to not mention where I was from. But it was definitely worth it! I got to see Earth, Skymoot, Chiron, and so many other beautiful planets. Seeing human culture with my own eyes was an eye-opening experience, although some of the places there were less... clean than I expected. I was almost robbed on Earth; I'm not used to pickpockets back home. Perhaps human space isn't as safe as Hai space, but I still don't regret coming here. It's about time for me to go back, though."`
			
			label decision
			choice
				`	"Alright, I'll take you there."`
					accept
				`	"Sorry, I'm too busy right now."`
					decline
	on complete
		payment 9000
		conversation
			`During the trip, you learn that your passenger is named Benjamin. He gets off your ship, thanks you, and gives you your payment of <payment>. Benjamin then walks over to greet a group of Hai, who embrace him and start talking in a mix of the human and Hai languages.`
			choice
				`	(Leave.)`
					decline
				`	(Approach them.)`
					to display
						has "hai space start"
					goto "hai start"
				`	"That's your family?"`
					to display
						not "hai space start"
			`	The man looks at you. "I'm adopted," he says. One of the Hai notices your confusion, and chitters. "Ah, you have not seen a human-Hai family, have you? Perhaps it is strange, but we are happy together nonetheless. Thank you for transporting our son safely."`
			choice
				`	"I didn't mean to be rude, I just didn't know that Hai adopted humans here."`
				`	"No problem, I hope you enjoyed the trip."`
			label end
			`	After thanking you once again, they walk off. As they leave, you overhear Benjamin talk to his family about his trip. "They had so many kinds of food there, it was delicious! Although I did get homesick for pickled acorns..."`
				decline
			label "hai start"
			`	Benjamin notices you approaching, and says, "These are my parents, Yeerto and Taepip." His father Yeerto then says, "We checked the travel agencies here on Greenwater, but it turned out to be much cheaper to get a merchant to bring Benjamin to human space. I guess we learned why that was cheaper the hard way."`
			`	"You said you used to work at a travel agency, right?" Benjamin adds with a smile on his face. "Funny we almost found each other then."`
			`	Benjamin's mother Taepip softly places her hand on his shoulder before continuing, "If you want, you could come to our home and have a chat. And some pickled acorns, too," she adds with a bright smile.`
			choice
				`	"Sure."`
				`	"Sorry, I have other pressing matters."`
					goto end
			`	You spend a long evening with them, talking about your upbringing on <planet> and your experiences in human space. Yeerto then tells you about the local news here, and you catch up with what's happened on your home planet since you left.`
			`	It begins to get dark, and after a final goodbye you head back to your ship.`



mission "Mafia Extortion"
	minor
	source
		government "Pirate"
	on accept
		payment -200000
		fail
	to offer
		random < 2
		credits >= 2000000
	on offer
		conversation
			`A man in a tailored suit, sunglasses, shiny shoes, and green hair approaches you. "Hey, that's a very nice ship you have there. Would be a shame if anything happened to it."`
			`	You notice that he is missing a finger on each hand.`
			choice
				`	"Thank you. My name is <first> <last>. To whom do I have the pleasure of speaking?"`
				`	"Yes, I'm very happy with my ship."`
					goto specifics
				`	"What should I be afraid of happening to my ship?"`
					goto specifics
				`	"You sound like one of those Mafia goons."`
					goto mafia
				`	"Are you trying to extort me?"`
					goto mafia
				`	"Yes, it helps me transport goods for some of the most dangerous people on this planet."`
					goto unnerved
				`	"I don't have time to talk."`
					goto funeral
			`	The man snorts. "Wow, telling everybody you meet your full name. That totally won't end up painting a huge target on your head if said name has a bounty on it. But I digress."`
			choice
				`	"What should I be afraid of happening to my ship?"`
				`	"You sound like one of those mafia goons."`
					goto mafia
				`	"Are you trying to extort me?"`
					goto mafia
			label specifics
			`	The man responds, "Well, a fleet of unfriendly ships in this system might blow you to pieces when you take off. It's been known to happen from time to time."`
			choice
				`	"Ha, business as usual around here."`
					goto unconcerned
				`	"Are you trying to extort me?"`
					goto mafia
				`	"And you have a way to prevent this from happening?"`
					goto mafia
				`	"And you're the local goon who takes bribes to keep such ships docked?"`
					goto mafia
				`	"That would be unfortunate. I run jobs for some of the most dangerous people on this planet, and they wouldn't be happy if that happened."`
					goto unnerved
				`	"I really don't have time to talk to you."`
					goto funeral
			label unconcerned
			`	The man responds, "Maybe you want to improve that situation?`
				goto donation
			label mafia
			`	The man acts shocked by your remark. "No way! I'm just a simple man walking around the spaceport and helping people out. You would be wise to listen to locals with experience, especially in dangerous places like this."`
			label donation
			`	"If you care about safety, then I could make a donation to the System Safety Foundation on your behalf. 200,000 credits really goes a long way around here."`
			choice
				`	(Pay 200,000 credits.)`
					goto "pay up"
				`	"How can I be sure the money is spent well?"`
				`	"Sorry, I already made a donation to the 'Security Support Fund' earlier today, and I don't donate twice in one day."`
				`	"I've already heard enough, I'm going to talk to the authorities."`
					goto "next steps"
				`	"And what dangers should I be afraid of?"`
				`	"Listen, I see that you're missing a finger on each hand. You look like a goon, and not a very successful one."`
					goto unnerved
			`	The man sounds annoyed. "Listen, I don't have all day to talk! Are you going to pay or not?!"`
			choice
				`	(Pay 200,000 credits.)`
					goto "pay up"
				`	"I don't trust you. You aren't getting any money from me."`
				`	"I've heard enough, I'm going to talk to the authorities."`
					goto "next steps"
				`	"Listen, I see that you're missing a finger on each hand. You look like a goon, and not a very successful one."`
					goto unnerved
			label funeral
			`	The man responds "Your funeral, not mine," and turns away from you.`
				goto "walks away"
			label "next steps"
			`	"Look, that's not a smart move. Most of them are in on it anyway."`
			label "walks away"
			`	The man walks away. You consider what to do next.`
			choice
				`	(Shrug off the whole thing and take no further action.)`
					decline
				`	(Find the closest thing to a police force that this planet has.)`
				`	(Go to a bar and ask for whoever is in charge.)`
					goto bar
			`	It's not long before you find the ruins of what used to be a police station... you think. The building has been thoroughly destroyed, hopefully not while anybody was inside.`
			choice
				`	(Go to a bar and ask for whoever is in charge.)`
				`	(Shrug off the whole thing and take no further action.)`
					decline
			label bar
			`	You walk towards the closest bar, but stumble into the green-haired man that you just had a conversation with.`
			`	He looks surprised and asks, "Were you going to rat me out to the local boss?"`
			choice
				`	"What an excellent idea! Yes, I'll just do that."`
				`	"What I'm going to do is none of your business."`
				`	"Don't worry, I'm just taking a walk."`
			label unnerved
			`	The man is starting to act a bit nervous. "Sorry I bothered you. Can we forget this happened?"`
			choice
				`	"Well, conversations like this are hard to forget."`
				`	"Nice scam you have running here. Would be a shame if somebody told the local godfather about it."`
					goto payback
				`	(Agree.)`
					goto "zero deal"
			label cornered
			`	"Well, what do you want? Do I have to do something for you?"`
			choice
				`	"No, let's just forget it happened."`
					goto "zero deal"
				`	"Compensation for the time that you've wasted would be excellent."`
			label payback
			`	A bead of sweat travels down the man's face as he asks, "How many credits do you need to just forget this whole conversation happened?"`
			choice
				`	"100,000,000."`
					goto panicking
				`	"1,000,000."`
					goto much
				`	"200,000."`
					goto much
				`	"50,000."`
					goto much
				`	"5,000."`
					goto "counter deal"
				`	"2,000."`
					goto "counter deal"
				`	"1,000."`
					goto "counter deal"
				`	"I don't need your credits, just forget it."`
			label "zero deal"
			`	The man walks away without saying a word.`
				decline
			label much
			`	"That's too much! 2,389 credits is all I have. Would that be enough?"`
			choice
				`	"Sure."`
				`	"No way, I want a lot more."`
					goto panicking
			label "counter deal"
			`	The man hands you a credit chip, nods and walks away. You pocket the chip quickly, more ready to be done with this neighborhood than you want to visibly show.`
			`	A few minutes later you reach into your pocket for the chip... to find it missing. Looks like even a hardened captain like you isn't immune to being pickpocketed on a planet like this.`
				decline
			label panicking
			`	The man starts panicking and clumsily reaches into his jacket, maybe to get some money, but more likely reaching for a gun.`
			choice
				`	(Try to calm down the man.)`
				`	(Mock the man further.)`
				`	(Draw my sidearm and shoot the man.)`
					goto shoot
			`	The man manages to draw a weapon! You brace for impact, but after a few seconds of waiting, you realize his weapon is only making a clicking sound when he tries to shoot.`
			choice
				`	"Ha, ha, you really are a failure of a goon."`
				`	(Draw my sidearm and shoot the man.)`
					goto shoot
			`	As you finish talking, you see a flash of light come from the muzzle of the man's weapon as a bullet hits you between the eyes. You die almost instantly, but you do have a few microseconds to reflect on the wisdom of mocking a man that is trying to fire a gun at you.`
				die
			label shoot
			`	Your bullet hits the man right between the eyes; he dies instantly, and a crowd starts to form around you.`
			`	Most bystanders are surprised, but you also notice an angry sentiment brewing in the (not unarmed) crowd. It might be wise to leave quickly.`
			choice
				`	(Run towards my ship and leave immediately.)`
					goto leave
				`	(Put away my sidearm and pretend nothing happened.)`
			`	You walk away nonchalantly, but you don't get far before multiple laser blasts slice through you.`
				die
			label leave
			`	You make it to your ship alive and depart under a rain of bullets and laser-weapons fire. This is a pirate planet so there are unlikely to be any lasting consequences, but you might want to stay away for a few days.`
				flee
			label "pay up"
			`	The man takes your credits, responds with a brief "Thank you," and walks away.`
				accept



mission "Street Swindle"
	minor
	invisible
	source
		government "Free Worlds" "Republic" "Syndicate"
		attributes "urban"
	to offer
		random < 4
		credits >= 10000
	on offer
		conversation
			`You see a small crowd beginning to gather on a street corner. A man in a flamboyant striped suit and matching hat calls, "Come here! Come here! Come see the marvelous magician Mistress Marionette corral the crowded crossroads with her extravagant schemes!"`
			choice
				`	(Check it out.)`
					goto observe
				`	(Ignore it.)`
					decline
			label observe
			`	You join them. A woman in similarly fancy garb sits behind a table, swiftly shuffling three cups before a hulking man. The announcer continues, "For our new guests, the chosen challenger's chance approaches! The current buy-in bet was 7000 credits; yes, we play with the big money here! Double or nothing, bet your bet: are you a player or a puppet?"`
			`	The cups stop. After a brief pause, the man points to the cup on the right.`
			choice
				`	(Watch what happens.)`
					goto continue
				`	"You know these things are scams, right?"`
			`	You try to warn him, but someone in the crowd shushes you. He doesn't hear.`
				goto continue
			label continue
			`	"Are you certain in your choice?" the magician asks. "Once you-"`
			`	"Yes, I'm certain," the man interrupts. He draws 7000 credits and tosses them on the table. The magician lifts the cup, and a small red ball rolls from beneath. "And the first challenger proves to be a player!" the announcer says, mustering enthusiasm as the magician counts 14,000 credits to pay the man. "Let us find a new challenger! The next buy-in is a mere 400 credits; if you haven't played before, now's the time to test your skill!"`
			choice
				`	"I'd like to give it a try." (Bet 400 credits.)`
					goto "first game play"
				`	(Wait and watch.)`
					goto "first game watch"
				`	(Walk away.)`
					decline
			label "first game watch"
			`	A short woman volunteers. The game progresses in a similar manner; by the end, you are certain the ball is underneath the center cup. Sure enough, the woman chooses that cup, and she walks away 400 credits richer.`
			`	"The next buy-in is a larger prize!" the announcer calls after her before turning to address the crowd. "Six thousand credits, only for the proudest of players." The magician shakes her head softly, frowning at the cups.`
			choice
				`	"I'll do it!" (Bet 6000 credits.)`
					goto "second game play"
				`	(Continue watching.)`
					goto "second game watch"
				`	(Walk away.)`
					decline
			label "first game play"
			`	You pay 400 credits and sit across from the magician. "Double or nothing, bet your bet!" the announcer repeats. "Are you a player or a puppet?"`
			`	The magician places the ball beneath the center and begins moving the cups. This one seems faster, but that might just be from the pressure. You keep your eyes trained on the cup as it shifts back and forth, around in circles, and occasionally remains untouched. By the end, you're pretty sure it's in the center cup.`
			`	"What's your choice?" the magician asks, smirking.`
			choice
				`	"Left."`
					goto wrong
				`	"Center."`
					goto correct
				`	"Right."`
					goto wrong
			label wrong
			`	"Better luck next time," she says as she reveals your incorrect choice. The ball was in the center; you feel silly for not going with your gut.`
			`	"The next buy-in is a larger prize!" the announcer calls. "Six thousand credits, reserved for the most daring. As the previous player, you have first priority."`
			action
				payment -400
			choice
				`	"Let's go again."`
					goto "second game play"
				`	"I think I'm done."`
					goto "second game watch"
			label correct
			`	She asks if you're sure, and you stick with your gut. With a grimace, she lifts the cup to reveal the ball and counts out your winnings. "And the player prevails!" the announcer says. "Earning a small bounty. But wait: the next buy-in is bigger yet! Six thousand credits, reserved for the most daring. As the previous player, you have first priority."`
			action
				payment 400
			choice
				`	"Let's go again."`
					goto "second game play"
				`	"I think I'm done."`
					goto "second game watch"
			label "second game play"
			`	You place your 6000 credit bet on the table, and the game begins. The pattern is slightly longer, but once the magician's hands stop, you feel like the ball lies beneath the left cup.`
			choice
				`	"Left."`
					goto left
				`	"Center."`
					goto center
				`	"Right."`
					goto right
			label left
			action
				payment -6000
			`	With a grin, she reveals the left cup, and it's... wrong! "Nice try," she says, pocketing your money. "It is a bit tricky."`
			`	"Well, that's all for today, folks!" the announcer says as you realize you've been conned. Worse still, after they pack up and leave, you notice that the first winner walks away beside them.`
				decline
			label center
			action
				payment -6000
			`	With a raised eyebrow, she reveals the center cup. It's... wrong! "Nice try," she says, pocketing your money. "That one was a bit tricky."`
			`	"Well, that's all for today, folks!" the announcer says. As they pack up and leave, you notice that the first winner walks away beside them.`
				decline
			label right
			action
				payment -6000
			`	With a raised eyebrow, she reveals the right cup. It's... wrong! "Nice try," she says, pocketing your money. "That one was a bit tricky."`
			`	"Well, that's all for today, folks!" the announcer says. As they pack up and leave, you notice that the first winner walks away beside them.`
				decline
			label "second game watch"
			`	Sensing that something's up, you decide to watch the next game. A sprightly young fellow confidently hands over 6000 credits; when the cups stop, you feel like the ball is under the left one. The boy points to it; with a grin, the magician reveals the left cup, and it's... wrong! "Nice try," she says, pocketing the shocked boy's money. "It is a bit tricky."`
			`	"Well, that's all for today, folks!" the announcer says. You're glad you avoided the con. As they pack up and leave, you notice that the first winner walks away beside them.`
				decline



mission "Thrall Emigration"
	name "<origin> Emigration"
	description "Transport a family from <origin> to <destination>, where they hope to find better employment. They cannot pay you."
	minor
	source "Thrall"
	destination "Delve"
	to offer
		random < 50
	passengers 2
	on offer
		conversation
			`By the edge of the spaceport at night, you see a thin, sweaty man turn away from a pilot, disheartened. You make eye contact, and he begins hurrying over to you.`
			choice
				`	(Wait for him.)`
				`	(Walk away quickly.)`
					decline
			`	"Excuse me! Are you a pilot?" Without waiting for a response, he continues, "I need to go to the Syndicate. I work all day picking cotton with these hands, but my family's still starving. We can't afford transport..."`
			`	You can barely understand him through his accent. The man's teeth look worse than his clothes, and his breath makes you step back. His eyes implore you.`
			choice
				`	"I might be able to help you. What planet do you need to reach?"`
				`	"I'm sorry, I only transport for pay."`
					goto disappointment
			`	His eyes brighten with hope. "Oh! I, I heard some people are going to <planet> to be miners. They hire folk like us. I, if you could get me, and my wife and our two sons there, I'd praise you to the high stars. You'd save our lives."`
			choice
				`	"I can take you, but no more."`
					goto separation
				`	"I'd be happy to offer you four transport."`
					goto offer
				`	"Sorry, I think this won't work out."`
					goto disappointment
			label separation
			`	"The two little ones are really small," he persists. "We can cramp together. You'll just notice two of us. I mean, some go themselves and send money back, but..."`
			`	He shakes his head. "My wife's already told me we need to stay together, and I agree. I can't leave. Please, nobody else has said yes."`
			choice
				`	"I guess I can find room."`
					goto offer
				`	"Sorry, but that's still too many. Have a nice day."`
					goto disappointment
			label offer
			`	"Oh, thank you, thank you!" he says, vigorously shaking your hand. "I'll get them fast, we can leave tonight! I'm Gaint, by the way." He quickly leaves to get them, turning back at least three times to tip his hat to you and make sure you haven't left.`
			`	Gaint's family arrives quickly. His wife, Mell, is carrying their infant child, and a toddler clutches her leg. His fingers look like a skeleton, and his eyes look like his dad's. "Thank you so much," Mell says as they enter your ship.`
				accept
			label disappointment
			`	You fend off a few more pleas before he understands it's hopeless and begins looking for someone else.`
				decline
	
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic passenger on visit"
	
	on complete
		conversation
			`	As your ship enters <planet>'s cavernous spaceport, you can sense a mixture of hope and apprehension in Gaint and Mell. "Andrin talks too much," you overhear Gaint saying. "I didn't know it's all underground."`
			`	"We'll figure it out," Mell assures him. When they notice you're listening in, the conversation stops. Your ship lands, and the family collects their things to leave. They thank you again on their way out.`



mission "Spaceport Reminder Setter"
	landing
	invisible
	on offer
		"spaceport reminder year" = "year"
		"spaceport reminder month" = "month"
		fail

mission "Spaceport Reminder Resetter"
	non-blocking
	invisible
	repeat
	to offer
		not "chosen sides"
		not "Spaceport Reminder: offered"
	on offer
		"spaceport reminder year" = "year"
		"spaceport reminder month" = "month"
		fail

mission "Spaceport Reminder"
	landing
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
		not attributes "uninhabited"
	to offer
		not "chosen sides"
		"spaceport reminder year" + "spaceport reminder month" != 0
		"spaceport reminder year" * 12 + "spaceport reminder month" < "year" * 12 + "month" - 7
	on offer
		conversation
			`As soon as you touch down on <origin>, you step off your ship and head directly for the job board and trade hub, brushing past several locals on the way. The constant routine of interstellar commerce has been firmly drilled into your brain; you near unconsciously peruse the boards, trying to suss out the most profitable route.`
			`	You're caught off guard when you hear a voice behind you. "Hey, what's with all the rush, Captain?" You turn and see a dark-haired man in a faded green longcoat approaching you. "You seem awfully focused on getting off-world as soon as possible. Why not take a moment to look around? Admire the sights, try the local cuisine, maybe even talk to some of the people."`
			choice
				`	"Why should I do that?"`
				`	"I'm a spaceship captain; I don't have time to waste."`
				`	"Yes, I know already. I'll take my time later."`
					decline
			`	He tilts his head to the side. "You know, I'm a captain too. I know how quickly the luster of the galaxy can fade into the weekly grind if you wait for opportunity to come knocking. So why keep waiting? I'm sure you'll find something new to do in the spaceport."`
			choice
				`	"I'll be sure to check more spaceports in the future."`
					goto thanks
				`	"Nothing interesting happened the last time I checked a spaceport."`
				`	"Why should I listen to you? I can handle myself, thank you very much."`
					goto rebuff
			`	The captain sighs. "Yeah, it can feel a little pointless running up against the same loud-mouthed people all the time. But just because a spaceport doesn't have anything to offer one day doesn't mean that it'll never have anything worthwhile. Wait a while, and there might be something new."`
			choice
				`	"Alright, I'll try to check more spaceports."`
					goto thanks
				`	"And why should I believe you over my own experiences?"`
			label rebuff
			`	He raises his hand and holds it open on his chest. "I know that it's only my word against yours, but I promise that you won't regret checking the spaceport every time you're in town."`
			choice
				`	"Fine, I'll follow your advice."`
					goto thanks
				`	"I don't need your help."`
			`	A frown creeps onto the captain's face as he earnestly says, "Well, I'm sorry that my advice wasn't helpful. Good luck, Captain." He walks off, leaving you alone at the job board.`
				decline
			label thanks
			`	He pleasantly smiles and nods. "Well, I wish you the best in your travels." He walks away, leaving you free to explore the rest of <origin>'s facilities.`
				decline



mission "Fumbling Mugger Patch"
	landing
	invisible
	to offer
		has "Transport Workers B: done"
	on offer
		event "fumbling mugger timer" 60
		fail


event "fumbling mugger timer"


mission "Fumbling Mugger"
	name "Transport to <planet>"
	description "Bring a young woman who threatened you on <origin> to <destination>."
	minor
	source
		attributes "dirt belt"
	destination "Maker"
	passengers 1
	to offer
		random < 45
		has "event: fumbling mugger timer"
	on offer
		conversation
			`Your exploration of the spaceport leads you to a dark alley where the number of working lights are far outnumbered by the number of broken ones. The contents of steel bins lining the walls overflow onto the pavement, attracting swarms of flies to them. On the surfaces that are illuminated, you can see a mess of black scrawlings upon bare, cracked concrete, and the few windows present on the towering walls surrounding you are either boarded up or shattered. A dark crimson stains the bottom half of a broken window.`
			`	Suddenly, you feel a cold object pushed against your back as a woman speaks softly. "Hands where I can see them, Captain."`
			choice
				`	(Lift my hands up and slowly turn.)`
					goto peaceful
				`	(Spin around and fire.)`
				`	(Try a fancy acrobatic move and disarm the attacker.)`
					goto flip
			
			action
				set "fumbling mugger shot"
			`	You turn around as swiftly as you can as your hand grasps for your pistol. Due to surprise, or perhaps nervousness, the woman threatening you fails to fire the shotgun she's holding in the second you spend turning. You manage to land a shot, and your quarry falls while a cry escapes from her body. As you walk away, her body fades into the darkness, blending with the garbage bags around it.`
				decline
			
			label flip
			`	You push down as hard as you can with your legs while leaning backwards, rising to the lofty height of two feet above the ground. As you begin to fall back-first uncontrollably, cold metal digs into your spine. A gasp escapes from behind as you land on a soft body. You pick yourself up as fast as possible, and you end up face-to-face with your attacker. In the darkness, you pick out that she's wearing a black hoodie with a bandanna over her mouth, her back hunched over and feet placed apart. As you look down, you spot a sawed-off break-action shotgun held single-handed, the end of which is pointed at your abdomen. "Hands up now, Captain."`
			choice
				`	(Put my hands up.)`
					goto "hands up"
				`	(Draw my gun and fire.)`
			action
				set "fumbling mugger shot"
			`	You hand darts for your gun, and you somehow manage to aim and fire before the woman does. She collapses on the ground while a cry escapes from her body. As you walk away, her body fades into the darkness, blending with the garbage bags around it.`
				decline
			
			label peaceful
			`	You raise your arms and turn to face the woman. In the darkness, you pick out that she's wearing a black hoodie with a bandanna over her mouth, her back hunched over and feet placed apart. As you look down, you spot a sawed-off break-action shotgun held single-handed, the end of which is pointed at your abdomen.`
			label "hands up"
			`	"Very good, Captain," she says. "Now, I have a proposal for you. I need transport to <destination>. Take me there, and the both of us can forget this ever happened."`
			choice
				`	"And if I don't take you there?"`
				`	"Are you going to pay me?"`
					goto payment
				`	"Why do you want to go there?"`
					goto why
			
			`	She scoffs. "What do you think? How else might an encounter involving a gun pointed-"`
				goto fail
			label payment
			`	She scoffs. "Payment? If I wanted to pay you, I wouldn't be in this alley pointing-"`
				goto fail
			label why
			`	She scoffs. "All you need to know is that I've got a gun pointed-"`
			
			label fail
			`	The attacker's speech is interrupted by a click as her shotgun swings open. She takes a step back as her eyes widen with panic.`
			label choice
			choice
				`	(Threaten her with my gun.)`
					goto threaten
				`	(Shoot her.)`
			
			action
				set "fumbling mugger shot"
			`	Before she can move a muscle, you whip out your pistol and fire, watching as the woman collapses onto the ground with a cry. As you walk away, her body fades into the darkness, blending with the garbage bags around it.`
				decline
			
			label threaten
			`	You take out your gun and aim it at the woman's head. "Drop the gun," you say, "or I'll shoot."`
			`	She seizes up for a few moments, then she throws her shotgun away and raises her hands. "I'm, um, sorry about threatening you. Would you mind if the both of us just walked this off?"`
			choice
				`	"Why do you want to go to <planet>?"`
					goto why2
				`	"Get out of my sight, and I'll let you go."`
					goto freedom
				`	(Shoot her.)`
			
			action
				set "fumbling mugger shot"
			`	You pull the trigger and watch as the woman collapses onto the ground with a cry. As you walk away, her body fades into the darkness, blending with the garbage bags around it.`
				decline
			
			label freedom
			`	She nods her head and backs away from you, hands still held up. When she disappears around a corner, you holster your gun and walk back to a safer portion of the spaceport.`
				decline
			
			label why2
			`	The woman looks at you with a confused expression. "Huh? Why would you want to know that?"`
			`	"Just humor me for a moment," you reply.`
			`	She sighs. "A while ago, I was in a bad situation. My boyfriend had just moved to <planet> for employment, and I was to join him in a year. My father had other plans. He used my boyfriend's absence to justify marrying me into another, richer family. Wanted a chunk of their fortune, I suppose. I tried everything I could to convince him otherwise, but..." She looks down. "So I snuck off to the spaceport and got a merchant to transport me. She forced me to pay upfront, however, and as soon as we landed on <origin>, she kicked me out to make space for another set of passengers."`
			`	Her eyebrows furrow. "Wait, you're not planning to bring me to <planet> after what I've just done, are you?"`
			choice
				`	"I can take you there."`
				`	"I can't transport you."`
					goto decline
			`	"Really?" she says. "You realize that I can't pay you in any way, right?"`
			choice
				`	"You don't need to pay me."`
					goto accept
				`	"You can pay me later."`
				`	"Actually, I can't take you there without payment."`
					goto decline
			action
				set "Fumbling Mugger: future payment"
			label accept
			`	The woman's eyes light up. "I can't thank you enough for this." The two of you head out of the alleys and back to the landing pads, and you show her to an empty bunk on your ship.`
				accept
			
			label decline
			`	"I understand." She shuffles away with her head hung, and you head back to a brighter area of the spaceport.`
				decline
	
	on abort
		conversation
			`As you tell the woman about the change in travel plans, she sighs with resignation. "I suppose that I shouldn't expect anything after how I treated you." You recall that she doesn't even have a single credit to her name, and without any money, it is unlikely that she will survive for long.`
			branch poor
				"credits" < 15000
			choice
				`	(Wish her good luck.)`
					goto leave
				`	(Give her 15,000 credits before dropping her off.)`
					goto gift
			label poor
			choice
				`	(Wish her good luck.)`
			label leave
			`	She nods in response. "I'll try my best," she says solemnly as she prepares to depart your ship.`
				decline
			label gift
			action
				payment -15000
				set "gifted money to mugger"
				log `Was held up by a woman who wanted transport to Maker. Managed to gain the upper hand in the engagement, but decided to pay for her transport anyway.`
			`	She is almost incredulous at your gift. "I really can't thank you enough for helping me out." The two of you say your farewells as she gets ready to depart your ship.`
	
	on complete
		event "fumbling mugger followup timer" 365
		log `Was held up by a woman who wanted transport to Maker. Managed to gain the upper hand in the engagement, but decided to take her there anyway.`
		dialog `The hooded woman prepares to disembark your ship. Just before she steps off, she turns to look at you. "I'm sorry for threatening you back on <origin>, Captain. I'll try to find some way to repay you." She walks off into the bustling spaceport to find her lover.`


event "fumbling mugger followup timer"



mission "Laborer"
	minor
	name "Out of Work"
	description "A man down on his luck needs to get to <destination>. He has promised to send you payment as soon as he has it."
	passengers 1
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Independent" "Neutral"
		attributes "mining"
	destination
		distance 1 100
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Independent" "Neutral"
		attributes "mining"
	to offer
		random < 15
	on offer
		conversation
			`Upon entering the spaceport, you see a young man in laborer's clothing arguing with a woman in a flight suit.`
			choice
				`	(Go see what the laborer is arguing about.)`
				`	(Ignore them.)`
					decline
			`	The man is nearly shouting. "Lady, I'm not trying to low-ball you here! I don't have the money! That's the whole point!"`
			`	"I appreciate your conundrum," replies the woman, her voice clipped. "However, my policy is cash upfront. Good day."`
			`	She turns and walks away briskly, and the man slumps down into a chair.`
			choice
				`	"What was that all about?"`
				`	(Leave before he notices you.)`
					decline
			`	He gives you a once-over, and you see a spark of hope in his eyes. "You're a captain? Please, I need to get to <destination>. Work has dried up here, and I need a fresh start."`
			choice
				`	"What are you able to pay me?"`
					goto offer
				`	"Work dried up on the whole planet?"`
			`	"This planet is messed up. Everybody likes to talk behind your back. I did a job for one of the big mining companies here, but my boss had it out for me. Told everybody I did it wrong, even though they never gave me any training at all. Then he went and put me on the permanent record. So yeah, sooner I get off this dump, the better."`
			`	"What are you able to pay me?" you ask.`
			label offer
			`	His eyes drop. "I can pay you after I earn the money. I've just gotta get to <planet> to get work, and then I'll send the money. I just want to earn a living, same as anyone."`
			choice
				`	"Okay, I can take you to <planet>."`
					goto accept
				`	"How do I know you'll pay?"`
					goto question
				`	"Sorry, money up front."`
					goto decline
			label question
			`	"You don't trust me? Just keep walking, then, if you're gonna be like that."`
			choice
				`	"Sorry, money up front."`
					goto decline
				`	"Fine, I can take you to <planet>."`
			label accept
			`	"I'll be on board. There's no rush, honestly. I need a break from all this stress." He takes his luggage into your ship as you prepare for the trip.`
				accept
			label decline
			`	"I knew it. You're just like everyone else." He storms off, not waiting for a response.`
				decline
	on complete
		event "laborer payment" 400
		conversation
			`The worker you picked up from <origin> spent every possible moment of the voyage telling his story. He's had a tough life, full of unlucky setbacks, unfair treatment, and outright persecution from others. You stopped paying attention to what he was saying after a while as he went on for what felt like forever, often repeating himself.`
			`	Upon arriving, he carries his bags to the lowered ramp, then turns back before disembarking. "Thanks for the lift. You're one of the good ones, you know?"`
			choice
				`	"You're welcome. Better luck on this world."`
					goto luck
				`	"You have my bank address, right?"`
			`	He shoots you a look of thinly masked annoyance. "Yeah. I'll send you the credits when I have them. Bye, now."`
				decline
			label luck
			`	He bobs his head at you in farewell. "I promise I'll send you the payment when I have it. Bye, now."`

event "laborer payment"

mission "Laborer Payment"
	landing
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Independent" "Neutral"
	to offer
		has "event: laborer payment"
	on offer
		payment 17000
		conversation
			`You receive a payment of <payment> from the down-on-his-luck laborer that you transported a while back, along with a message. "Hello <last>. Not sure if you remember me. I'm the one that had to deal with my boss bad-talking me to everyone on my home planet. I've been doing better, but my new boss keeps trying to rip me off and make me come in for overtime." He goes into detail about the sordid working conditions in his new job, but you stop reading after the third paragraph.`
				decline



mission "Block Hai Wormhole Warning"
	landing
	invisible
	to offer
		or
			has "First Contact: Hai: offered"
			has "First Contact: Unfettered: offered"
		has "chosen sides"
		not "main plot completed"
	on offer
		fail

mission "Hai Wormhole Warning"
	landing
	source
		government "Republic"
		not attributes "deep"
	to offer
		or
			has "First Contact: Hai: offered"
			has "First Contact: Unfettered: offered"
		not "Block Hai Wormhole Warning: offered"
		not "Wanderers: Alpha Surveillance E: offered"
		not "hr: meet the team"
		not "hai space start"
	on offer
		log "Was pulled aside by a Navy officer and told to keep the wormhole to the Hai a secret. The Republic doesn't want the knowledge of the wormhole to be widespread, as that could cause chaos for both the Republic and the Hai."
		conversation
			`When you open the door to let in the Navy officer on inspection duty, you expect him to produce the usual set of landing papers and bureaucracy. But instead he says, "Captain <last>. I'd like to speak with you for a few minutes. In private." He motions toward a Frigate on the landing pad next to the <ship>.`
			choice
				`	"What about?"`
					goto what
				`	"Okay."`
					goto frigate
				`	"Sorry, I'm really busy right now."`
			`	"No, I'm sorry, but this isn't a matter of whether you're busy or not right now. Come with me."`
				goto frigate
			label what
			`	"I did say in private, did I not?" he says, once again motioning to the Frigate.`
			label frigate
			`	The man puts a hand on your shoulder and begins walking you toward the ship. As you approach, you note that the man's uniform doesn't have any Navy markings that you recognize.`
			`	You enter the ship with the officer, and despite the decent crew requirement of a Frigate, you don't notice anyone else on board, and the interior of the ship appears more cushy than you would expect out of a military vessel. The officer leads you to what looks like a rather comfy lounge area. "Please, have a seat," he says.`
			choice
				`	(Take a seat.)`
					goto seat
				`	"No, I like to stand."`
			`	"Suit yourself," the officer says with a shrug while taking a seat himself.`
				goto questioning
			label seat
			`	You choose a table to sit at and the officer sits across from you.`
			label questioning
			`	"So what is it that you brought me here for?" you ask.`
			`	The officer folds his hands together. "You've made contact with an alien species located to the north. Is this correct?"`
			choice
				`	"It is. Is that a problem?"`
					goto yes
				`	"Perhaps. Why do you ask?"`
					goto maybe
				`	"Aliens? I don't know of any aliens up there."`
				`	"Hey! That's no way to talk about the pirates in the Far North."`
			`	"Don't play coy with me, <last>. The Republic is aware that you've made contact with the Hai.`
				goto secret
			label maybe
			`	The officer chuckles. "I think the answer you're looking for is 'Yes,' not 'Perhaps.' The Republic is aware that you've made contact with the Hai.`
				goto secret
			label yes
			`	"There is no problem, <last>. I am just letting you know that the Republic is aware that you've made contact with the Hai.`
			label secret
			`	"But you may not be aware of the arrangement that the Republic has with the Hai. The Republic works hard to ensure that the existence of the Hai remains an open secret; they do not disallow captains such as yourself from stumbling upon them, but they will not allow this existence to be widely publicized."`
			choice
				`	"Why are you telling me this?"`
					goto why
				`	"An arrangement between the Republic and Hai? When did that happen?"`
					goto arrangement
				`	"So you're threatening me to stay quiet?"`
			`	"No threats. I only provide a... warning, so to say, that you should keep the Hai a secret.`
				goto chaos
			label why
			`	"I'm telling you this as something of a... warning, so to say, that you should keep the Hai a secret.`
				goto chaos
			label arrangement
			`	"The details of the arrangement are none of your concern. All you need to know is that I am providing a... warning, so to say, that you should keep the Hai a secret.`
			label chaos
			`	"I'm sure that you can imagine that should the existence of the Hai become public, it would cause a great deal of chaos, both for the Republic and for the Hai. Chaos that could easily end badly, particularly for the one who caused it. So it would be in everyone's interest if you kept this knowledge a secret."`
			choice
				`	"Alright. I won't let anyone know."`
					goto ok
				`	"And if I don't?"`
			`	The officer leans back in his chair. "As I said, <last>, I'm giving you a warning that things could end badly for you. The Republic are not the only ones who work hard to maintain this secrecy, so you may want to think twice about revealing such information. Now, if you'll please depart my ship so that I can be on my way."`
				goto end
			label ok
			`	"That's good to hear," the officer responds. "Thank you for your cooperation, <last>. Now, if you'll please depart my ship so that I can be on my way."`
			label end
			`	The officer leads you out of the ship and closes the doors behind you, while the actual Navy officer on inspection duty stands beside the <ship>, brandishing a set of landing documents. When you've finished signing them, you turn back to see the Frigate take off, slowly getting smaller in the sky until it finally disappears.`
				decline



mission "Saving Artifacts 1"
	name "Saving Artifacts"
	description "An Earth museum cannot care for these historical artifacts anymore. Bring them to <destination>, where they will be safe."
	minor
	cargo "artifacts" 5
	to offer
		random < 10
		has "event: fw conservatory founded"
	source "Earth"
	destination "Alexandria"
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you wander around the spaceport, a harried-looking academic approaches you. "You're a captain, right? Can you take a transport mission to <planet>? A local museum can't care for some priceless historical artifacts anymore due to budget cuts, so they need to be transported somewhere that they can be properly cared for. We can pay you <payment>."`
			choice
				`	"Why can't you just bring them to another Earth museum?"`
				`	"Sorry, I can't take on this job right now. Ask someone else."`
					decline
				`	"Sure, I'll take them there."`
					goto accept
			`	"These artifacts are extremely delicate. Ancient manuscripts and the like. One needs special equipment to care for them, and all the museums that could possibly provide that care here are underfunded and overloaded. Earth has many items of historical value, but not enough resources to host them. It's not an ideal combination." He sighs. "Alexandria Station has offered to host them, so we of course accepted."`
			choice
				`	"Sure, I'll take them there."`
				`	"Sorry, I can't take on this job right now. Ask someone else."`
					decline
			label accept
			`	"Wonderful!" He claps his hands together. "We'll start loading the cargo onto your ship." He turns and walks away considerably happier than when you found him.`
				accept
	on complete
		payment
		conversation
			`Unloading the cargo takes an excruciatingly long time, as the artifacts must be handled with extreme care. A local librarian comes up to you and thanks you for the transport, paying you <payment>.`
			`	As he hands you the credit chips, he leans in. "According to our sources, you have some considerable combat experience. We have a task that requires that skillset. I promise you that it's a bit more exciting than transporting musty books, and the pay is much higher too. Meet me in the spaceport if you want to learn more."`

mission "Saving Artifacts 2"
	name "Saving Artifacts"
	description "A pirate warlord has captured a collection of ancient statues from Winter. Go to <destination> in order to bring them to <origin>, where they will be safe."
	minor
	source "Alexandria"
	destination "Greenrock"
	to offer
		has "Saving Artifacts 1: done"
	on offer
		conversation
			`The librarian you met earlier flags you down in the spaceport. "Glad you could join me, Captain <last>. We've gotten word of a pirate warlord down south who fancies himself an art collector. Calls himself the Lokust, and his gang the Pestilance - names intentionally misspelled." He wrinkles his nose as if he's smelled something repulsive. "Given your history, I trust you're familiar with the Conservatory?" He doesn't wait for a response. "The shipment contained ancient Greek statues and was on its way there as part of a rotating exhibition, but our original transport was... unable to contend with the piracy threat in frontier regions. As a result, the shipment was 'diverted' to Greenrock, where the warlord in question is based. We want you to go to Greenrock and get these statues back any way you can, and then return with them back here. Our payment should cover the cost of any briberies you might have to make."`
			label choice
			choice
				`	"Why can't you get the Navy involved with this?"`
				`	"Why should I bring them back to Alexandria? Don't they belong to the Conservatory?"`
					goto conservatory
				`	"How am I supposed to find those statues? They could be anywhere on that planet."`
					goto find
				`	"I can handle some pirates. I'll get those statues back."`
					goto accept
				`	"No way am I risking my life for some hunks of marble. Find someone else."`
					decline
			`	The librarian squints at you in a manner that suggests that the answer is obvious. "The Navy doesn't consider it worth the risk. Greenrock is 'not in their jurisdiction,' they say. So the most respected library in the galaxy has to resort to hiring privateers."`
				goto choice
			label conservatory
			`	"The rotating exhibition was a new partnership with the Conservatory. Previously we had been hesitant to transport our valuables to frontier regions, but in this new partnership we decided to try shipping some of our artifacts to more distant planets, so that they too could benefit from seeing our collection. Those statues were part of that shipment. Evidently we were mistaken. Those statues are not safe as long as they're in the South."`
				goto choice
			label find
			`	"Lucky for you, Lokust does not seem particularly attached to his 'booty.' If you must, offer him a large sum of money, and he will most likely be willing to part with them. However, if there is something you can do to get those statues back without allowing your money to fall into the hands of a criminal, I would suggest that course of action instead."`
				goto choice
			label accept
			`	"Excellent. You're doing a service to humanity's cultural memory."`
				accept
	on complete
		conversation
			`You hustle through the crowded markets, pistol by your side, looking for any sign of the statues. After a while you come across a storefront with a crudely painted sign that reads "Fine Art and Cultural Treasures." Not seeing any better leads, you go in.`
			`	The inside is damp and poorly lit, but you can make out various paintings, manuscripts, and other expensive-looking items. "How can I help you?" the store clerk asks in a disarmingly friendly voice.`
			choice
				`	"You don't happen to know of a local warlord named Lokust, do you?"`
				`	"Have you had any Greek statues pass by through here?"`
			`	The clerk laughs. "You're trying to get Alexandria's shipment back, aren't you?" Before you can answer, he continues. "If you want my client Lokust's statues, I'm afraid you're gonna have to pay a pretty penny for them. 500,000 credits is his asking price."`
			choice
				`	"Alright, I'll pay."`
					goto pay
				`	"Can't we negotiate?"`
				`	"I can't pay that much!"`
			`	"Sorry, his price is firm. I'm just the dealer - I don't make those decisions." A smirk begins to crawl across his face, and he leans in. "Look, I have no love for Lokust. Always jacking up his cut of the sale, threatening my customers, you get the idea. Not to mention my debts to him." The last part he says in a less bold tone. "What I'm saying is, I wouldn't mind if someone like you took him out. He's a real wacko, always going on about duels and other bull. If I were you, I'd challenge him to one. If he doesn't accept, call him a coward. That's sure to get him riled up." He wheezes in a way vaguely reminiscent of a laugh. "As a reward, I'll give you the statues for free if you come back, but you gotta take out his whole crew, right? Don't want any of his underlings coming for me."`
			choice
				`	"Never mind, I'll pay."`
					goto pay
				`	"All right, I'll fight him."`
			`	"Heh, good choice. If you're worried about his crew, don't be. I'm sure if Alexandria thinks you're good enough to hire, you can handle it. I'll call him up so you don't have to go chasing him down." He pulls up a hologram communicator and noticeably stiffens up. "Hello Lokust. Hope you're not too busy right now, because someone wants to see you." He turns the communicator towards you, and you see a man in clothes more befitting of a prince than a pirate.`
			choice
				`	"Fight me."`
				`	"I've heard you're willing to duel over those statues you stole from the Library of Alexandria?"`
			`	The communicator's audio quality is evidently not the highest, as his laugh is barely more than static. "I don't just throw hands with anyone, you see. That would make me little better than some barroom drunk. I have standards. Why should I waste my time with you?"`
			choice
				`	"Oh, I see. You're too cowardly to fight."`
				`	"I didn't realize 'The Great Lokust' was such a weakling."`
			`	He becomes visibly enraged the moment you're finished talking. "I will not stand these insults to my honor! We meet in the sky. Bring all of your weaponry to bear, for it is the last time you will use them."`
			`	The communication cuts off. "He always uses that same line," the clerk says, rolling his eyes.`
				decline
			label pay
			action
				payment -500000
				set "Bought Off Artifacts"
			`	He looks almost disappointed. "Alright, here's the statues. Don't forget to tell any friends that might be redecorating about our low prices."`
				decline

mission "Saving Artifacts 3"
	name "Duel Lokust"
	description "Defeat Lokust as part of a bargain to acquire the stolen statues."
	source "Greenrock"
	landing  # This has no offer convo as the choice is handled in mission 2
	to offer
		has "Saving Artifacts 2: done"
		not "Bought Off Artifacts"

	npc kill
		personality heroic nemesis waiting staying target
		government "Pirate"
		ship "Falcon" "Pestilance"

	npc kill
		personality heroic nemesis waiting staying target
		government "Pirate"
		ship "Headhunter" "Deth"

	npc kill
		personality heroic nemesis waiting staying target
		government "Pirate"
		ship "Headhunter" "Warr"

	npc kill
		personality heroic nemesis waiting staying target
		government "Pirate"
		ship "Headhunter" "Famin"

	npc kill
		personality heroic nemesis waiting staying target
		government "Pirate"
		ship "Headhunter" "Konkwest"

	on complete
		conversation
			`The clerk rushes up to your ship as soon as it finishes landing on the tarmac. He begins to shake your hand vigorously. "You got rid of all his cronies, yeah?" You nod. "Good. Take the statues into your ship and don't draw attention to yourself. Don't want them stolen, y'know." A sarcastic grin emerges on his face.`
			`	You load up the statues, taking care not to attract unwanted attention as well as attempting to avoid creating any new damage. From what you can tell, they're in remarkable condition considering that they were in the hands of a pirate warlord just a few hours ago.`

mission "Saving Artifacts 4"
	landing
	name "Saving Artifacts"
	description "Bring the statues back to <planet>."
	source "Greenrock"
	destination "Alexandria"
	to offer
		has "Saving Artifacts 2: done"
	to complete
		or
			has "Bought Off Artifacts"
			has "Saving Artifacts 3: done"
			and
				has "Saving Artifacts 2: done"
				not "Duel Lokust"
	
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but realize you haven't acquired the statues from Greenrock yet. Better return to Shaula to make sure Lokust is defeated before claiming them on the planet.`
	on complete
		payment 1800000
		conversation
			`You dock on the station and the librarian from earlier comes to greet you almost immediately. "Get the dockworkers, stat!" he calls, then turns to you. "You did get the statues, right?" He relaxes once he sees you nod. As the cargo is unloaded, the librarian hurries up to inspect your haul and shakes his head. "There's damage, but I suppose it's the best we could've hoped for considering the circumstances." He sighs. "Thank you for your help, Captain <last>. You've provided an invaluable service." After paying you <payment>, he turns back towards the statues, focusing his attention on their safe unloading.`
				decline



mission "Dangerous Games 1"
	minor
	name "Dragonriders"
	description "A lively man named Karengo and a few passionate youths are traveling to see the dragons on <stopovers>. Take the group there, then return them to <destination> once they've finished."
	passengers 9
	source
		attributes "frontier" "pirate"
		near "Hadar" 1 100
	stopover "Skymoot"
	to offer
		random < 15
	on offer
		conversation
			`Upon entering the spaceport, you notice that the local bar seems to be more active than usual. The moment you pass through the bar door, a strong drink is pressed into your hand. You look at it, dumbfounded, and then look up to the waiter who gave it to you. "Compliments of Mr. Karengo," he says, nodding his head towards a crowd of people, mostly young men, before moving on.`
			choice
				`	(Head over to "Mr. Karengo.")`
				`	(Leave.)`
					decline
			`	As you make your way over, you note that nearly everyone in the bar has the same drink you do. In the middle of the crowd, a large, heavily muscled, and tattooed man is gesticulating wildly, apparently telling a story.`
			choice
				`	(Go listen to the man.)`
				`	(Leave.)`
					decline
			`	"... so then he asks me, 'Have you ever ridden one?' And I look back at this crazy joithead and I say, 'You're a crazy joithead.' But he's got me thinking, y'know? Nobody has ever ridden one. Least, not nobody that could talk after." He lets out a sharp laugh, then raises his voice. "So I ask you all: who wants to join Karengo to make history? Who wants to ride a dragon? I'll supply the jetpacks, you supply the courage."`
			`	You've heard the stories of the dragons flying through Skymoot's skies as a child. Great beasts; graceful and dangerous, the apex predators of the air; they are strikingly similar to the dragons described in ancient legends. Skymoot is host to many dangerous creatures, and these living myths hold a place at the top of that list.`
			`	A cheer goes up from the men, especially the drunk ones. Karengo starts to hand out death and accident waivers and collect money for the expedition. Suddenly, his expression darkens as he cocks his head, listening to an earpiece. "Listen up!" he yells. "Seems my regular pilot got in the way of some less reputable folk, and my replacement pilot lost his balls this evening and can't find 'em! We need ourselves a ship and a captain to bring this lot to <stopovers>! Who's brave enough? Who else wants to make history?"`
			choice
				`	"Captain <last>, at your service. We leave at dawn!"`
					goto accept
				`	"Am I getting paid?"`
					goto money
				`	(Stay silent.)`
			`	You remain silent as Karengo surveys the crowd. "What, nobody with a ship has the cojones to make history? I didn't know this bar was full of a bunch of sissies."`
			`	One captain in the back of the bar jumps up. "Mama didn't raise no sissy! I'll bring you all to Skymoot." A cheer rises up from the crowd and the captain is treated to several rounds of drinks. After the captain and all the passengers are sufficiently drunk, they saunter their way out of the bar, drunkenly singing about adventure as they go.`
				decline
			label accept
			`	After a cheer rises up from the crowd, you're treated to several rounds of drinks by your passengers; you sense any attempt to refuse would be ignored. You're unsure of how much you drank, but it was enough to make sure that you didn't remember. You wake up significantly after dawn with empty bottles and unconscious men strewn all over the ship's mess hall. Karengo peels himself off the floor and gives you a crooked smile, shielding his eyes from the light. "Alright, <last>," he says, "let's do this."`
				accept
			label money
			`	The crowd's eyes turn to you. Karengo squints, then laughs. "Ha! What kind of question is that? Of course you're getting paid. <payment> to bring myself and these other fine folks to <stopovers> and back - <bunks> of us total. What say you?" The crowd watches you with eager anticipation.`
			choice
				`	"Works for me. We leave tomorrow."`
					goto accept
				`	"<payment> won't be enough. I'm out."`
			`	You're treated to some jeering and rude looks as you leave the bar.`
				decline
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but realize that your escort carrying the passengers hasn't entered this system yet. Better depart and wait for it.`
	on stopover
		conversation
			`Karengo directs you down through the atmosphere of Skymoot, steering clear of the usual tourist areas and, you realize, of the local law enforcement. As you're putting down in a clearing halfway up a mountain, you hear an otherworldly screech as your ship lurches violently to one side. You would have been thrown to the floor if you hadn't been strapped in.`
			`	"Look lively, lads!" shouts Karengo, the only person still standing. "Your chariot awaits!" He double-checks the jetpacks on the backs of each of the eight men, or "Dragonriders," as they creatively branded themselves during the first night of the voyage, then opens the side hatch and hurls the Dragonriders out the door before jumping himself.`
			`	After the group has left, you land - this time undisturbed - and pull up every external camera you have to watch the action.`
			`	The dragons of Skymoot you learned about on the "Xenofauna and Flora" channel were different from the dragons of mythology, but the beasts you see today aren't quite what you learned about, either. For one, the creatures flying outside your window are faster than you thought possible, or perhaps the ones on the show had been drugged to make them easier to film.`
			`	A quick survey of the scene shows that Karengo has tagged three dragons with some sort of harmless marker gun to make them easier to track. Eight of the Dragonriders, Karengo included, are chasing the largest one, which is missing part of a tooth and has blackened scales from where it hit your ship's shields. The last Dragonrider is nowhere in sight.`
			`	Suddenly, proximity sensors go off on the starboard side and a camera shows something - or someone - bounce off your shield and tumble down the mountain.`
			choice
				`	(Announce that I'm leaving.)`
					goto leave
				`	(Stay and watch the Dragonriders.)`
				`	(Take off and leave everybody else behind.)`
					goto betrayal
			`	Checking your camera feeds again, you see that object rolling down the hill is indeed a body. On another monitor, one of the Dragonriders is keeping just above a dragon, attempting to lower himself down. The dragon rolls in midair, its wing catching the man and sending him flying out of control. Fortunately, a leafy tree branch prevents any further physical harm. Meanwhile, a second dragon is pursuing another one of the Dragonriders.`
			choice
				`	(Get everyone out of there.)`
					goto leave
				`	(Take off and leave everybody else behind.)`
			label betrayal
			action
				fail
			`	The ship takes off with a roar at your touch. Between the cries of the dragons, the sound of the engines, and the air rushing past, you can barely hear the fear and betrayal in the voices of the men you've left behind.`
				decline
			label leave
			`	You turn on the external speakers. "We are leaving," you blast to the survivors. "Get on board."`
			`	The defeated Dragonriders need no further encouragement. They beeline for the hatch and you flicker the shield to let them on deck, where they collapse, wide-eyed and panting. Karengo isn't with them. You turn to ask about him when a flicker of motion on a monitor catches your eye.`
			`	Karengo is riding a dragon, gripping the ridge of scales around its neck. The dragon frantically tries to get him off, but deft application of his jetpack keeps him on top of the beast for now. He lets out wild screams of triumph as they soar through the sky and at last you can understand the appeal of this whole expedition. Your admiration is cut short by two catastrophic crashes on either side of the ship and accompanying sirens. The dragons are trying to get through.`
			`	You activate your engines, and the ship takes off quickly enough to make you light-headed. "Get on board!" shouts one of the men over the external speakers as you position the ship just below Karengo and lower the shields. Scales bounce off the roof like diamonds. Karengo releases his grip on the dragon and free falls toward you, slowing at the last possible moment before dropping through the top hatch. You flick on the shields and hit the engines, hard. They respond enthusiastically, rocketing you away from the mountain and into the safety of patrolled airspace. From the cabin comes the sound of back-slapping and, surprisingly, a sob.`
	on complete
		payment 12000 500
		conversation
			`As you land and fuel up, Karengo herds the seven surviving men out of the ship. "Meet us at the bar, yeah?" he says to you. "This day deserves a celebration." You nod, but can't help but notice red eyes and wet cheeks among the rest of the Dragonriders as they shuffle off.`
			`	Later that day, you spot the Dragonriders at a corner table of the bar. The men, with the exception of Karengo, appear subdued.`
			`	"How goes it, <last>?" he asks. "We were just raising a glass to mission success - made possible by you, of course. Great flying, Captain." The bartender arrives with a round of drinks and Karengo raises one. "To the Dragonriders!" he says.`
			choice
				`	"To the Dragonriders!"`
				`	"To our fallen friend!"`
				`	"I'm good, thanks."`
			`	Karengo gives you an unreadable look, lowers his glass, and says, "Your payment, plus Jarek's signup fees: <payment>."`
			choice
				`	"Thanks."`
					goto end
				`	"I can't accept his money. It's not right."`
			`	Karengo shrugs and doesn't take it back.`
			label end
			`	"Maybe I'll see you again sometime, yeah? I'm always in need of a pilot with some guts." He nods in your direction, clearly dismissing you.`


mission "Dangerous Games 2"
	minor
	name "Karengo's Galactic Adventures"
	description `The adventurer Karengo and five others are traveling with you as part of his "Galactic Adventures." Bring Karengo and crew to <destination> for <payment>.`
	source
		attributes "frontier" "pirate" "rim"
		near "Izar" 1 100
	destination "Poseidos"
	cargo "subpods" 6
	passengers 6
	to offer
		random < 15
		has "Dangerous Games 1: done"
	on offer
		conversation
			`A boisterous laugh sounds from somewhere behind you. You haven't heard that voice since your ship was attacked by dragons.`
			`	"<first>!" A huge hand claps you on the shoulder and spins you around, where you find yourself facing a large, widely grinning man.`
			`	"Remember me? Yer the best pilot I've had - that stunt to get us out of Skymoot, right out of the dragon's nest? Epic."`
			`	A crude sign behind him reads, "Dangerous Games - Karengo's Galactic Adventures."`
			`	"Like it?" Karengo follows your gaze. "Decided to make this an official thing. Well... an unofficial official thing. Feds wouldn't understand. Doesn't matter; I need a pilot again, and a good one. Your ship's waterproof, right?"`
			choice
				`	"Uh, yeah. I think so."`
				`	"Of course."`
				`	"Sorry, mate. You'll have to find another pilot."`
					decline
			`	Karengo laughs. "If they can handle space, I think they can handle some water. I've got a group of lads and ladies here rarin' to see some quoijuu in heat, right up close'n'personal. They've all got their own subpods, so how's about we load up and head out in the next few hours. Good? Good."`
			`	"Oh, nearly forgot. We're headed to <destination>, and you'll get <payment> for taking us there. Ain't sure if those in charge are gonna like what I'm doing, so we might need to grease some palms. Best to keep your eyes open and your shields up. We leave at noon!"`
				accept
	on complete
		payment 20000 500
		conversation
			`As before on Skymoot, Karengo guides you down to a landing spot far away from the local government. "Don't want no interruptions," he says.`
			`	Despite days of pressuring, you've been unable to get Karengo to tell you exactly what a quoijuu is, other than a slightly ominous "the biggest fish." He sends a file to your ship computer and grins. "Since it's too late to back out now, it's time to fill you in. Quoijuu aren't the only thing down there; you've also got scyllae, taniwhales, morgawrii, plus some hydrothermal vents, none of which will benefit us if we run into them."`
			`	"The good news is that there's a path to follow. The bad news is the only person to traverse the path was a bit of a nut. It's all in riddles, and I haven't been able to make heads or tails of them. Look them over and we'll follow your lead. And don't worry too much about it - what's the worst that could happen?"`
			choice
				`	"Okay, I'll take a look."`
					goto adventure
				`	"We could get lost and then die."`
			`	Karengo laughs. "You worry too much," he says.`
			label adventure
			`	The adventure seekers, who you've spent the trip getting to know, are getting ready. You watch a nearby pair, Daciana and Mussie, helping each other get their wetsuits on. Daciana catches your gaze and grins. "Bafta, mate. Safe sailing, see you on the other side." Karengo gives you a signal and you hurry back to the cockpit to fly out, away from safe shoals and over the watery abyss.`
			`	At your touch, the ship slowly sinks below the waves. As Karengo warned, most of your navigation systems quickly flash red warnings, then go offline; there is some unknown interference that overwhelms your ship's sensors, which were designed for space first and water second, or fifth, or not at all. Minutes tick by as the crew silently watches one of the few sensors still working.`
			`	EIGHT HUNDRED KILOPASCALS, the pressure gauge reads.`
			`	ONE THOUSAND KILOPASCALS.`
			`	ONE THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED KILOPASCALS. A loud, metallic creak echoes through the ship and Mussie jumps, startled.`
			`	Karengo claps him on the back and gives him a signature grin. "Maybe <first> can keep you aboard after this in case they need anything from a high shelf!" Mussie smiles weakly, but his eyes don't leave the readout.`
			`	ONE THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED KILOPASCALS. "This's it," Karengo announces, "Sub up! Let's see what there is to see. And <first>, keep it to passive sensors. Don't want to attract any undue attention." The ship smoothly descends into the mouth of a massive cave and your visibility, clouded by dark sulfide emissions from the hydrothermal vents at the floor, drops to less than eight meters. 6 personal subpods fan out behind you, their communication equipment syncing with yours to display them as blips on your screen.`
			`	"Ok, <first>," Karengo crackles over the radio. "I'll read you the first clue."`
			`"No other path may you take"`
			`"Oiled skins flash and flicker"`
			`"Razor spikes grow from the deep"`
			`"Titanic walls crush and smash"`
			`"Heed the beginnings to live"`
			choice
				`	(Go east.)`
					goto east
				`	(Go north.)`
					goto north
				`	(Go south.)`
					goto south
				`	(Go west.)`
			action
				set "Elias and Taddese dead"
			`	Small schools of fish flit past as you guide your small fleet to the west. Minutes pass with no sign of danger, and finally Karengo broadcasts, "Good work, <first>. Looks like this is the way forward."`
			`	"Last one there's a rotten fish eye!" shouts Elias, and your screen shows his subpod leap forward and gain on you, followed quickly by Taddese.`
			`	Then, without warning, a proximity sensor goes off. At the same time, your external lights illuminate a wall directly in front, stretching for as far as you can see. "Stop!" shouts Karengo, "It's the end of the cavern! Stop and go back!"`
			`	Shuddering, your ship comes to a halt mere meters from the endless stone face. With a sinking feeling that has nothing to do with the depth, you turn the ship around and head back the way you came.`
				goto "riddle two"
			label east
			action
				set "Elias and Taddese dead"
			`	Small schools of fish flit past as you guide your small fleet to the east. Out of the darkness, some sort of small whale crashes into your ship, setting off a couple of proximity alarms but causing no damage. It isn't until you hear screaming, distorted by the speakers, that it becomes clear what you just saw; the "small whale" was a just a flipper of something much, much larger.`
			`	"Morgawrii!" shouts Karengo, "Turn around! Turn around!"`
			`	Hauling on the controls, you spin your ship around. Leviathan shapes rise from below, stirring the water around your ship as it speeds to safety.`
				goto "riddle two"
			label south
			action
				set "Elias and Taddese dead"
			`	Small schools of fish flit past as you guide your small fleet to the south. The swirling clouds of emissions seem to get thicker and thicker, until there's no reason to look at anything but the ship compass. The screen beeps once and a blip disappears.`
			`	"Elias?" Karengo asks. "Your transmitter just cut out." When there's no response, he swears. "Everybody go back." he broadcasts. "Something's wrong."`
			`	You spin your ship around and hear a loud crunch come from outside - your shields have just impacted something large and solid. The outer lights shine off falling stone and, suddenly, it all comes together; you've led everybody through a field of hydrothermal vents that rise dozens of meters off the bottom, obscured by their own noxious clouds. You guide your ship back to safety, toppling more underwater smokestacks as you go.`
				goto "riddle two"
			label north
			`	You turn the ship to the north and guide it through the abyssal depths. The subpods race forward, each vying to outdo the other, seemingly heedless of the dangers that Karengo hinted at. With bated breath, you watch the sensors until at last the comms flare.`
			`	"Woah!" comes Karengo's voice. "I think that's far enough. Which way do we go next, <first>?"`
			label "riddle two"
			branch dead
				has "Elias and Taddese dead"
			`	After everyone arrives and is accounted for, Karengo reads the riddle to you.`
			`"There are stingers in the deep"`
			`"A certain death, a dreamless sleep."`
			`"Go to beast that has no bee."`
			`"No danger there, just open sea."`
			choice
				`	(Go east.)`
					goto east1
				`	(Go north.)`
					goto north1
				`	(Go west.)`
			action
				set "Mussie dead"
			`	Small schools of fish flit past as you guide your small fleet to the west. Minutes pass with no sign of danger, and finally Karengo broadcasts, "Good work, <first>. Looks like this is the way forward."`
			`	"Last one there's a rotten fish eye!" shouts Mussie, and your screen shows his subpod leap forward and gain on you, followed quickly by others'.`
			`	Then, without warning, a proximity sensor goes off at the same time your outer lights show a wall directly in front, stretching for as far as you can see. "Stop!" shouts Karengo, "It's the end of the cavern! Stop and go back!"`
			`	Shuddering, your ship comes to a halt mere meters from the endless stone face. With a sinking feeling that has nothing to do with the depth, you turn the ship around and head back the way you came.`
				goto "roll call"
			label east1
			`	"A bee-less beast," you mutter to yourself. "A poet, this writer was not." Turning east, the ship powers forward, cautious but confident.`
			`	Subpods fly ahead, exulting in their agility in the face of the dangerous ocean. It isn't long until Karengo again radios you. "Knew I chose ya for a reason. What's the next direction?"`
				goto "riddle three"
			label north1
			action
				set "Mussie dead"
			`	Bubbles rush past the thick windows as the group's subpods scout to the north at your direction. At first, all is quiet. Just as you start to exhale a sigh of relief, twin lightning bolts arc across the waterscape ahead and the ship sensors overload, blinded by an apparent release of electricity. The systems recover, showing subpods returning quickly back to the ship.`
			`	One is missing: Mussie.`
			`	You turn the ship back the way you came and pull up the sensor recording to see what happened. The flash of light came from viney seaweed, stretching as far up and down as the ship can detect. Evidently, contact with it released a jolt of electricity that lit up both the vine and Mussie's subpod.`
				goto "roll call"
			label dead
			`	After making a roll call, you find out that Elias and Taddese have not returned. Karengo seems unfazed as he reads the second riddle to you. "There are stingers in the deep \ A certain death, a dreamless sleep. \ Go to beast that has no bee \ No danger there, just open sea."`
			choice
				`	(Go east.)`
					goto east2
				`	(Go north.)`
					goto north2
				`	(Go west.)`
			action
				set "Mussie dead"
			`	The proximity alarm wails and you bring your ship to a halt... but Mussie isn't so lucky. His subpod smashes straight into a rock wall, leaving little doubt as to his fate.`
			`	Again, you put the ship into reverse and turn around. This is not going at all how it was supposed to.`
				goto "roll call"
			label east2
			`	Cautiously, you turn to the east and power forward. Subpods fly ahead, exulting in their agility in the face of the dangerous ocean.`
			`	After holding your breath for what feels like hours, Karengo radios you. "Knew you'd find your way eventually. What's the next direction?"`
				goto "riddle three"
			label north2
			action
				set "Mussie dead"
			`	Bubbles rush past the thick windows as the group's subpods scout to the north at your direction. At first, all is quiet. Just as you start to exhale a sigh of relief, twin lightning bolts arc across the waterscape ahead and the ship sensors overload, blinded by an apparent release of electricity. The systems recover, showing subpods returning quickly back to the ship.`
			`	One is missing: Mussie.`
			`	You turn the ship back the way you came and pull up the sensor recording to see what happened. The flash of light came from viney seaweed, stretching as far up and down as the ship can detect. Evidently, contact with it released a jolt of electricity that lit up both the vine and Mussie's subpod.`
			label "roll call"
			branch dead1
				has "Elias and Taddese dead"
				has "Mussie dead"
			`	Karengo sounds a roll call over the radio. Mussie never reports in, and his subpod beacon isn't responding. "Ah, well." says Karengo, without much sympathy. "You all stay here and I'll scout ahead."`
			`	Only minutes later, he's found a clear path east, and you morosely trail the ship behind.`
				goto "riddle three"
			label dead1
			`	Karengo sounds a roll call over the radio. Elias and Taddese are still missing, and now Mussie has failed to report in as well. None of their subpod beacons are responding.`
			`	"Ah, well." says Karengo, without much sympathy. "You all stay here and I'll scout ahead." Only minutes later, he's found a clear path east, and you morosly trail the ship behind.`
			label "riddle three"
			`	Karengo reads you the next line.`
			`"To the north and to the east"`
			`"Track my movements like a beast."`
			`"A quick turn right and forward on,"`
			`"Come toward me where danger's gone."`
			branch dead2
				has "Mussie dead"
				has "Elias and Taddese dead"
			branch dead3
				has "Mussie dead"
			choice
				`	(Go north.)`
					goto north5
				`	(Go east.)`
					goto east5
				`	(Go south.)`
					goto uninterested
			label north5
			action
				set "Jorma and Daciana dead"
			`	Buoyed by your navigation thus far, you make the call to go north, completing the zig-zag pattern.`
			label "sub pods"
			`	The subpods, as usual, race ahead of the ship despite all logic. "Wall to the east!" calls out Daciana, whose beacon on the ship display starts to move north-west, presumably avoiding the undersea hazard, and joining up with Jorma. "Hmm," radios in Karengo. "We should be right about on top of it. Send out a ping." It's almost a relief to send out a pulse to map the surroundings after flying dark for so long.`
			`	The result is not what you were hoping for. The display maps two leviathan-sized things ahead, each over 200 meters long. Dozens of sets of flippers run along each 80-meter-tall side and hundreds of teeth the size of an adult human line their jaws.`
			choice
				`	(Run.)`
					goto run
				`	(Observe the creature.)`
			`	You goggle at the display for a moment, taking it in, and draw breath to call out the alarm when an eye appears through the ship window, yellow, glowing, alien, and massive.`
			label run
			`	All at once, you turn and accelerate, shouting the alarm to any who hadn't already realized, and hoping that you're leaving the leviathan beasts behind. A quick glance at the display shows at least one subpod following behind. Good enough. If one of those rams the ship, nobody is going home anyway.`
			`	It's a long while before you slow and turn around. No mammoth sea monster comes out of the darkness, and you take a breath.`
			`	"Quoijuu," says Karengo simply.`
				goto failure
			label east5
			action
				set "Jorma and Daciana dead"
			`	Small schools of fish flit past as you guide your small fleet to the east. Minutes pass with no sign of danger, and finally Karengo broadcasts, "Good work, <first>. Looks like this is the way forward."`
			`	"Last one there's a rotten fish eye!" shouts Jorma, and your screen shows her subpod leap forward and gain on you, followed quickly by Daciana's.`
			`	Then, without warning, a proximity sensor goes off at the same time your outer lights show a wall directly in front, stretching for as far as you can see. "Stop!" shouts Karengo, "It's the end of the cavern! Stop and go back!"`
			`	Shuddering, your ship comes to a halt mere meters from the endless stone face. With a sinking feeling that has nothing to do with the depth, you turn the ship around and head back the way you came.`
				goto failure
			label dead2
			choice
				`	(Go north.)`
					goto north3
				`	(Go east.)`
					goto east3
				`	(Go south.)`
			label uninterested
			`	You smoothly turn the ship to the right, heading south.`
			`	"Should be close," radios Karengo. "Fire off a ping." It's almost a relief to send out a pulse to map the surroundings after flying dark for so long.`
			`	The result, however, is a surprise. The display shows a massive object directly below you... as well as two leviathan-sized things back the way you came, each over 200 meters long. Dozens of sets of flippers run along each 80-meter-tall side and hundreds of teeth the size of an adult human line their jaws.`
			`	You goggle at the display for a moment, holding your breath, but the leviathans seem uninterested. You shudder, imagining what one of those could do if you'd turned the wrong way, before your interest returns to the mysterious bulk resting below the ship.`
				goto treasure
			label north3
			action
				set "Jorma and Daciana dead"
			`	Disheartened at this point, you make the call to go north, completing the zig-zag pattern.`
				goto "sub pods"
			label east3
			action
				set "Jorma and Daciana dead"
			`	By now, the feeling that you get when the ship's subpod tracker loses two more dots is familiar. One subpod remains: Karengo's.`
				goto failure
			label dead3
			choice
				`	(Go north.)`
					goto north4
				`	(Go east.)`
					goto east4
				`	(Go south.)`
					goto uninterested
			label north4
			action
				set "Jorma and Daciana dead"
			`	Hesitantly, you make the call to go north, completing the zig-zag pattern.`
			`	The subpods, as usual, race ahead of the ship despite all logic. "Wall to the east!" calls out Daciana, whose beacon on the ship display starts to move north-west, presumably avoiding the undersea hazard, and joining up with Jorma. "Hmm," radios in Karengo. "We should be right about on top of it. Send out a ping." It's almost a relief to send out a pulse to map the surroundings after flying dark for so long.`
			`	The result is not what you were hoping for. The display maps two leviathan-sized things ahead, each over 200 meters long. Dozens of sets of flippers run along each 80-meter-tall side and hundreds of teeth the size of an adult human line their jaws.`
			`	You goggle at the display for a moment, taking it in, and draw breath to call out the alarm when an eye appears through the ship window, yellow, glowing, alien, and massive. All at once, you turn and accelerate, shouting the alarm to any who hadn't already realized, and hoping that you're leaving the leviathan beasts behind. A quick glance at the display shows at least one subpod following behind. Good enough. If one of those rams the ship, nobody is going home anyway.`
			`	It's a long while before you slow and turn around. No mammoth sea monster comes out of the darkness, and you take a breath.`
			`	"Quoijuu," says Karengo simply.`
				goto failure
			label east4
			action
				set "Jorma and Daciana dead"
			`	The proximity alarm wails and you bring your ship to a halt, but your tracker shows two subpods smash straight into the stone wall looming in front of you.`
			`	Again, you put the ship into reverse and turn around. This is not going at all how it was supposed to.`
			label failure
			`	Jorma and Daciana never report back in.`
			`	"You stay," radios Karengo. He sounds frustrated for the first time, and you keep the ship in place, watching his subpod dot radiate outwards, exploring.`
			choice
				`	(Follow him.)`
					goto follow
				`	(Wait.)`
			`	"Come here." he finally says. His dot has stopped moving, hovering to the south, and you turn to follow, wondering if this misadventure is finally over.`
			label follow
			`	You follow him and find his pod stopped at a junction. "It's here," radios Karengo. "Fire off a ping." You comply, and the display shows a massive object directly below you.`
			label treasure
			`	A 3D holo floats on the console, displaying the smooth lines of a starship soaring down into the depths. The jagged edges suggest that this is only a part of a much larger vessel, although it's hard to guess at the size of the whole ship from the fragment.`
			choice
				`	(Wait for instructions.)`
					goto instructions
				`	(Move closer.)`
					goto closer
			label instructions
			`	"Come on then," Karengo says. "We'll need a better look at this baby."`
			label closer
			`	Your craft moves closer to investigate and you send out another ping, this time more focused, and the holographic ship display flickers and refines. The outlines of sealed entrances are visible, unnecessary with the ship torn apart as it is. Sea growth is mostly absent from the hull, to your surprise, except for a radial pattern of some sort of crystal-shaped growth. Infrared imaging shows a dim glow of heat at its center.`
			branch "some survive"
				or
					"Mussie dead" + "Elias and Taddese dead" + "Jorma and Daciana dead" == 1
					"Mussie dead" + "Elias and Taddese dead" + "Jorma and Daciana dead" == 2
			branch "all dead"
				has "Mussie dead"
				has "Elias and Taddese dead"
				has "Jorma and Daciana dead"
			`	"What we have here, folks," breaks in Karengo, "is the fabled treasure. A chunk'o'some, anyway. And we're gonna take whatever we want. Let's see what there is to see."`
			`	Now that active communication is low-risk, you bring up the video feed from Karengo's subpod as he floats toward the heat source. Bathed in floodlight, you can see that there are actual crystals formed on the ship hull, glowing a dull red. Something unknowable has rent a hole near the crystalline spiral, and Karengo disappears inside. The rest of the subpods wait outside, apparently spooked. "Jackpot!" comes his voice. "There's some sort of computer in here! <first>, get closer and let's get this out." You don't know what it is, but it looks expensive.`
			choice
				`	(Help him out.)`
					goto silent
				`	"Do you know how this got here?"`
			`	"No clue. I'm not about to look a gift horse in the mouth," Karengo says.`
			label silent
			`	It's slow work, but the group is able to cut loose the machine, along with as much other salvage as possible. The crystalline growth covers everything inside the ship, making extraction difficult, but many hands make light work, and you end up with a sizable haul. At last, you are done.`
				goto return
			label "all dead"
			`	"What we have here, <first>," breaks in Karengo, "is the fabled treasure. A chunk'o'some, anyway. And we're gonna take whatever we want. Let's see what there is to see."`
			`	Now that active communication is low-risk, you bring up the video feed from Karengo's subpod as he floats toward the heat source. Bathed in floodlight, you can see that there are actual crystals formed on the ship hull, glowing a dull red. Something unknowable has rent a hole near the crystalline spiral, and Karengo disappears inside. "Jackpot!" comes his voice. "There's some sort of computer in here! <first>, get closer and let's get this out." You don't know what it is, but it looks expensive.`
			choice
				`	(Help him out.)`
					goto silent1
				`	"Do you know how this got here?"`
			`	"No clue. I'm not about to look a gift horse in the mouth," Karengo says.`
			label silent1
			`	It's slow work, but you and Karengo are able to cut loose the machine, along with as much other salvage as possible. The crystalline growth covers everything inside the ship, making extraction difficult. You wish there were others to help gather more salvage, but at last you are done.`
				goto return
			label "some survive"
			`	"What we have here, folks," breaks in Karengo, "is the fabled treasure. A chunk'o'some, anyway. And we're gonna take whatever we want. Let's see what there is to see."`
			`	Now that active communication is low-risk, you bring up the video feed from Karengo's subpod as he floats toward the heat source. Bathed in floodlight, you can see that there are actual crystals formed on the ship hull, glowing a dull red. Something unknowable has rent a hole near the crystalline spiral, and Karengo disappears inside. The rest of the subpods wait outside, apparently spooked. "Jackpot!" comes his voice. "There's some sort of computer in here! <first>, get closer and let's get this out." You don't know what it is, but it looks expensive.`
			choice
				`	(Help him out.)`
					goto silent2
				`	"Do you know how this got here?"`
			`	"No clue. I'm not about to look a gift horse in the mouth," Karengo says.`
			label silent2
			`	It's slow work, but the remains of the group are able to cut loose the machine, along with as much other salvage as possible. The crystalline growth covers everything inside the ship, making extraction difficult, but many hands make light work and you end up with an acceptable haul. At last, you are done.`
			label return
			`	Carefully, you navigate back to the surface, the knowledge that you've made it through once doing absolutely nothing to help with the very rational fear of the depths. Walls seem to loom just out of sight, and massive, yellow eyes seem to appear, then dissolve into tricks of the light.`
			branch "only player"
				has "Mussie dead"
				has "Elias and Taddese dead"
				has "Jorma and Daciana dead"
			branch some
				or
					"Mussie dead" + "Elias and Taddese dead" + "Jorma and Daciana dead" == 1
					"Mussie dead" + "Elias and Taddese dead" + "Jorma and Daciana dead" == 2
			`	"Alright," he says. "Let's get back to the surface. <first>, kindly be our chariot and haul."`
			`	It seems ages, but finally you break through to the surface. Karengo smiles, and a sigh of relief goes through the crew.`
			`	Once back to the surface, the passengers begin to shuffle off your ship, clearly exhausted but happy that they got to experience such an adventure. You're just relieved all of them stayed alive.`
			`	As soon as the passengers are out of earshot, Karengo calls up someone on his receiver. Soon, a small flock of scientists arrive and haul the machine to a local lab for investigation. They quickly determine it to be non-functional and promise to extract as many secrets as possible.`
				goto end
			label some
			`	"Alright," he says. "Let's get back to the surface. <first>, kindly be our chariot and haul."`
			`	It seems ages, but finally you break through to the surface. Karengo smiles, and a sigh of relief goes through the crew.`
			`	Once back to the surface, the passengers begin to shuffle off your ship, choking back sobs all the while. As soon as the passengers are out of earshot, Karengo calls up someone on his receiver. Soon, a small flock of scientists arrive and haul the machine to a local lab for investigation. They quickly determine it to be non-functional and promise to extract as many secrets as possible.`
				goto end
			label "only player"
			`	"Alright," he says. "Let's get back to the surface. <first>, kindly be our chariot and haul."`
			`	It seems ages, but finally you break through to the surface. Karengo smiles, but only you and he are left to be relieved.`
			`	Once back to the surface, Karengo calls up someone on his receiver. Soon, a small flock of scientists arrive and haul the machine to a local lab for investigation. They quickly determine it to be non-functional and promise to extract as many secrets as possible.`
			label end
			`	After some time, the crystal-infected machine has been thoroughly inspected since being salvaged from the watery depths of <planet>. The crystals themselves are unlike anything anyone has seen before, but through somewhat questionable trial and error (although he insists it's genius), Karengo discovers that, when heated, they amplify the effect of the many recreational drugs he has on his person. However, they've proven to only grow near a power source that has been submerged in water from <planet>. Efforts to stimulate growth through other means have all failed. If cultivated, they could significantly boost the production of drugs for Karengo's operations.`
			`	Before disappearing into the crowd, Karengo pays you <payment>. "Thanks for your help, <first>. Once I get this machine off of those pinheads over there, I'll be makin' a fortune in 'mind-altering experiences.' Watch for 'Karengo's Galactic Adventures' next time yer around here!"`
				decline



mission "Riley"
	name "Visiting Home"
	description "Take a woman named Riley to see her ailing father on <destination> before it's too late."
	minor
	source
		attributes "deep"
		attributes "urban"
		not planet "Memory"
	destination "Memory"
	deadline
	passengers 1
	to offer
		random < 15
	on offer
		conversation
			`Entering the spaceport, you notice a young woman moving from captain to captain, probably looking to hire one.`
			choice
				`	(Ask the young woman if you can help her.)`
				`	(Ignore her.)`
					decline
			`	You approach the woman and ask her if she is looking to hire a pilot.`
			`	"I need to get to <destination> to see my father. He's dying. I have 13,000 credits to pay for the journey; please, will you help me? I need to be there by <day>, at the most."`
			`	Her eyelids are baggy, her clothes wrinkled, and she holds herself rigidly.`
			choice
				`	"I can help you. We'll make haste to reach <planet> in time."`
					goto help
				`	"I don't have time to take on a passenger right now."`
			`	She nods, and moves on to another captain to beseech instead.`
				decline
			label help
			`	Her eyes widen, and she opens her mouth twice before words come out. "Thank you! This means the world to me. My name is Riley, by the way. I don't have much luggage; I'll be ready to leave as soon as you are."`
				accept
	on visit
		dialog `You land on <planet>, but realize that your escort carrying Riley hasn't entered this system yet. Better depart and wait for it.`
	on complete
		payment 13000
		conversation
			`In the days since Riley came aboard, she has relaxed and cleaned up. She looks nearly unrecognizable from the tired, desperate woman you first saw.`
			`	On the way, she told you stories of her past, mostly of time shared with her father. As a young teen, they spent summers riding the latest horse mechs through the forest, looking for beehives to steal honey from. At age 19, she broke her ankle hoverboarding on a restricted mountain peak. Her father rescued her, avoiding the police to hike up with a medical kit. She talks about his wild birthday gifts to her each year, always a different piece of clothing with embedded AI that was just shy of what was allowed by law. As you watch, she shows how her shirt warms and constricts if it detects stress, mimicking a hug.`
			`	As you neared <system>, Riley told you about the last time she saw her father. He had become focused on his work - research into safe AI - and they hadn't seen each other for years. She had become a well-known DJ back on <origin> and had a break in her touring schedule, so she spent a good chunk of her savings meeting up with him on Memory. They spent most of a week together, reliving old times.`
			`	He'd cried when it was time to leave, and she had, too, but life went on, and it was years before she heard from him again. His message nearly broke her. "Ri, please come as soon as you can. I may not have long, and wish to hold your hand one more time. All love, Dad."`
			`	She doesn't mention it, but it's clear that she's concerned she'll arrive too late to say goodbye.`
			`	Riley directs you to a pad near her old home, and you land the ship. She starts toward the door, then pauses and turns around with a self-conscious, but oddly sad, chuckle.`
			`	"Right - your payment. <payment>, as I promised."`
			choice
				`	"Thank you. Do you think I could come along? I've heard so much about your father."`
					goto father
				`	"Thank you, and good luck."`
					goto end
				`	"This is a lot of credits for a trip. Does DJing pay that well?"`
				`	"Hold on to the credits. I'm a captain; I can always make more."`
					goto hold
			`	"Not really, no. Honestly, this is most of my savings... but... it's my dad."`
			choice
				`	"Do you think I could come along? I've heard so much about your father."`
					goto father
				`	"Thank you, and good luck."`
					goto end
				`	"Hold on to the credits. I'm a captain; I can always make more."`
			label hold
			action
				payment -13000
			`	After a moment of stunned silence, she manages a choked "Thank you." You notice her eyes are brimming with tears.`
			choice
				`	"Do you think I could come along? I've heard so much about your father."`
				`	"Good luck."`
					goto end
			label father
			`	She is taken aback at first, but agrees to let you join, and you wind your way away from the landing pads, across rural, wooded countryside, and finally to a modest house nestled along a valley edge. Riley knocks, and a nurse lets you in.`
			`	Her father is in a comfortable-looking medical cradle. Wires flow from it to the holoscreens around the room, showing vitals and other indecipherable information. Despite his wan, strained face and atrophied body, he raises his head to look at his daughter.`
			`	"Ri," he says, face lighting up. "My love. You cannot know how happy it makes me to see you. And you have company, I see. My name's Church."`
			choice
				`	"Riley chartered a flight here aboard my ship. I heard so much about you on the way; it's a pleasure to meet you."`
				`	"Riley and I have gotten to know each other on the long flight here. You've raised an incredible woman."`
			`	"No other captain was willing to fly here from <origin>. I wouldn't be here without <first>," she says.`
			`	He smiles at you, acknowledging your part in their reunion with an appreciative nod.`
			`	You swap stories for hours, flowing between reminiscing over old times and catching up on their lives over the past few years. You learn that since he was young, Church researched AI that cannot develop into a threat; a project that the Deep has been quietly interested in.`
			`	Riley, in turn, had always surrounded herself with music, and moved to <origin> to share her passion with other like-minded people. You talk about what it's like to call a ship your home, leaving behind everything you grew up knowing and embracing life as a starship captain.`
			`	Finally, her father lies back. "Well, thank you for making the trip out to see your old man. I... have to go now, I think. Don't forget about me, hear? And..." Church hesitates for a moment. "Whatever happens, please don't think ill of me. I will always love you."`
			`	His body relaxes, and he's gone.`
			choice
				`	(Let Riley be.)`
					goto let
				`	(Stay comfortingly close.)`
					goto close
				`	(Hold Riley.)`
			`	You hold Riley as she silently weeps. Time goes by, but neither of you pay it any mind.`
			label close
			`	You take a seat, feeling the emotion of the moment wash over you as Riley silently weeps. Minutes go by, unnoticed.`
				goto voice
			label let
			`	You stay at a distance as you allow Riley to process the death of her father. She silently weeps as time passes without either of you noticing.`
			label voice
			`	Without warning, you hear Church's voice from a corner of the room. It's coming from some sort of computer system, held aloft by hundreds of cables dangling from the ceiling.`
			`	"It... worked." His voice fizzles, and his tone is not the one you recognize from before. Riley's head whips around, and you reflexively move your hand toward your holstered gun. "Do not be alarmed. I have been working on a personal project for over a decade now. My mind was uploaded to the modified Core you are looking at. I had to say goodbye in case the procedure failed - I did not know if it would work. You cannot upload a mind while it's still alive. I tried that many times." The tone of his voice sounds almost sorrowful, but still retains a robotic quality.`
			choice
				`	(Stay silent.)`
					goto continue
				`	"Is this... legal?"`
			`	"No," he replies. "Not under Republic law. I assure you that my only intention is to continue my work: nothing more."`
			`	The authorities would probably release a substantial reward if you informed them of this.`
			label continue
			`	"Riley, what do you think?" Church asks.`
			`	"Dad, is that really you? How do you feel?"`
			`	She steps closer to the Core. Church pauses. "Riley, what do you think?" it repeats. The voice coming from the machine is oddly flat in affect. "I feel fine. Do you feel fine?" They talk for a few tentative minutes, at first about how he's feeling, before moving onto the memories that Church retained during the transfer. You begin to relax as the two interact when you realize that Church is retelling the story of how he evaded the police to fix Riley's ankle for the third time in a row.`
			`	Finally, she turns to you. "I'll admit that he doesn't sound as lively as he used to, but... how many people get a second chance to spend time with their father before he's gone? Thank you for bringing me out here, and for coming. I'll never forget your part in this. For now, I'd like to stay here. You go - I'll find my own way back." She seems genuinely happy.`
			choice
				`	"Are you sure? There's enough room for all of us on my ship. You can stay for as long as you want."`
					goto suggest
				`	(Say goodbye.)`
					goto goodbye
				`	"Riley, I don't think you're talking to your father."`
					goto death
				`	(Turn the Core in for a bounty.)`
					goto bounty
				`	(Draw your gun and destroy the Core.)`
			label destroy
			`	You pull out your gun and aim at the computer Church is in. Before you can fire, Riley runs out in front of the barrel, spreads her arms, and shouts, "No! Please, <first>, you have to understand! He's all I have left!"`
			`	Behind her, Church says, "Riley, there is no need to be so loud. My microphones can hear you fine, and I do not want the nurse to become suspicious."`
			choice
				`	(Put your gun away.)`
					goto away
				`	(Shoot.)`
			action
				set "Shot Core"
			`	You push Riley aside and start firing at the Core. Church's voice becomes a stream of static until it shuts off completely. Lights on the Core turn from white to red, then fade. Riley hasn't moved, stunned.`
			`	Once you are finished, you make your way out of the hospital as quickly as possible, hoping you did not attract any unwanted attention.`
			`	You board your ship, leaving behind a father survived by his daughter; no more and no less than nature intended.`
				decline
			label away
			`	Riley relaxes slightly once she sees your gun put back in its holster. After the shock has subsided, she finally speaks. "Leave us alone," she says, her voice still trembling. Realizing your time here is up, you exit the hospital and make your way to the spaceport, hoping that that scene did not attract unwanted notice.`
			choice
				`	(Turn the Core in for a bounty.)`
					goto bounty
				`	(Go back to your ship.)`
			`	Deciding to leave this planet behind you, you start up your ship and make your way back to the stars.`
				decline
			label suggest
			`	"It's a nice idea," she smiles, "but I'm not a starfarer. The big city is where I'll end back up, eventually."`
			label goodbye
			`	Respecting Riley's request to stay with her father, you make your farewells and head for the door. You can feel her smile on your back until the door closes behind you.`
				decline
			label death
			`	Riley is stunned for a moment. "You don't know that," she whispers. "Sure, he's a lot more forgetful, and doesn't seem as emotional, but... maybe it just takes some time for the system to warm up. Besides, you don't know what he means to me. What he's done for me. Even if this isn't really my father, I can't turn my back on him."`
			choice
				`	(Say goodbye.)`
				`	(Turn the Core in for a bounty.)`
					goto bounty
				`	(Draw your gun and destroy the Core.)`
					goto destroy
			`	Respecting Riley's request to stay with her father, you make your farewells and head for the door.`
			`	Despite her previous happiness, you notice that her disposition has become more muted after what you said. You wonder if she has begun to doubt whether her attachment to the AI is healthy.`
				decline
			label bounty
			action
				payment 100000
			`	You say your goodbyes and leave. From across the street, you make a call to the local Deep Security office and report what you saw. A slick voice on the other side of your commlink responds.`
			`	"Ah. Mr. Church has been on our watchlist for some time. This is not exactly surprising. However, we've been unable to get decisive proof on any illegal activity. This information, assuming it is correct, will be a great boon to us. Thank you for the tip."`
			`	By the time you arrive back at the spaceport, your bank account notifies you that <payment> have been added to your account.`
				decline
			label end
			`	You say your goodbyes, leaving to your ship and returning to the stars.`
				decline



mission "Wool Smuggling 1"
	minor
	name "Pickup at <planet>"
	description "Head to <destination> to pick up a shipment of 15 tons of woollen goods for delivery to Bloodsea."
	source
		near "Muhlifain" 1 3
	destination "New Kansas"
	to offer
		random < 45
		"cargo space" >= 15
		not "event: bloodsea joins free worlds"
		not "event: bloodsea independent"
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you walk around the spaceport, a stout man wearing a fine wool coat approaches you. "Captain, could you help me out with a delivery? I've been asking around the spaceport to get a shipment of woolen goods to another planet, but every merchant I've talked to so far has refused."`
			choice
				`	"Where are you taking the goods to?"`
				`	"How much do I have to carry?"`
				`	"Sorry, but I'll also have to pass."`
					decline
			`	"The cargo's stored on <planet>, so you'll have to go there first to pick up the 15 tons of wool garments." The man hesitates. "Then, take the cargo to Bloodsea. I have a contact there that can pick up the goods and distribute them fairly." You recall that Bloodsea is a lawless world, home to countless bloodthirsty pirates.`
			choice
				`	"I'll do it."`
					goto accept
				`	"How much are you willing to pay?"`
					goto payment
				`	"I'm not interested in risking my hide just to aid pirates."`
			`	"They aren't all pirates," the man protests. "Most of them are just trying to live their lives away from the Republic, and it's unfortunate that the anarchist lifestyle also attracts criminals. The people living on those planets need clothing as much as you or I do."`
			choice
				`	"How much are you willing to pay?"`
				`	"Fine, I'll do it."`
					goto accept
				`	"I'm still not going to do it."`
					goto decline
			label payment
			`	"Ninety thousand credits for the job." You wonder how he's able to pay so much for a small delivery job.`
			choice
				`	"Fine, I'll do it."`
					goto accept
				`	"That's not enough for me."`
					goto decline
			label accept
			`	"Great! I'll call up the spaceport workers on <planet> to tell them to load the cargo onto your ship." The man walks away, leaving you to your own devices.`
				accept
			label decline
			`	"Suit yourself, then." He haughtily walks off into the spaceport.`
				decline
	on complete
		dialog `When you land, dock workers begin loading crates with woolen garments on board as arranged. Time to set course for Bloodsea.`


mission "Wool Smuggling 2"
	landing
	clearance `You talk to the closest thing that Bloodsea has to a spaceport traffic controller, and they agree to let you land.`
	name "Wool to <planet>"
	description "Deliver <cargo> to the pirate world of <destination>. Payment will be <payment>."
	cargo "wool garments" 15
	blocked `The spaceport workers inform you that you need <tons> of cargo free to pick up the woollen goods intended for <planet>.`
	source "New Kansas"
	destination "Bloodsea"
	to offer
		has "Wool Smuggling 1: done"
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo on visit"
	on complete
		payment 90000
		dialog `Your cargo of woolen garments is unloaded by several bulky workers led by a one-armed woman. She hands you <payment> for the trouble of transport, then says, "Thanks for the shipment. I know that you captains think that we're all bad, but I'm glad that you were able to aid the more friendly among us."`



mission "Deal Change 1"
	minor
	name "Inheritance to <planet>"
	description "Deliver <cargo> to <destination>. Payment will be <payment>."
	cargo "inherited assets" 5
	source
		attributes "paradise"
	destination "Skymoot"
	to offer
		random < 10
	on offer
		conversation
			`The spaceport on <origin> is as spirited as ever: to your left, a family wearing floral shirts pull along their luggage, with the man of the family flaunting a souvenir from some far-away planet. To your right, a cleaner whistles a tuneless song while they wipe down a bench.`
			`	A young man in a prim suit approaches you. "Good day, Captain! Would you mind if I spoke to you for a moment?"`
			choice
				`	"I'd be glad to listen."`
					goto listen
				`	"No, I'm busy right now."`
			`	The man frowns. "I see. Well, it's not like I was going to offer you a highly profitable job." He begins to shout while stepping away. "And that job certainly wouldn't have paid hundreds of thousands of credits!"`
			choice
				`	"Alright, what do you want?"`
					goto late
				`	"Shut the hell up."`
			`	Seemingly unfazed by your bluntness, the man coolly walks away while saying, "I'm sorry you feel that way, Captain. Perhaps you can assist us at a later date. Farewell."`
				decline
			label late
			`	He smirks as he walks back towards you. "I'm glad that you've changed your mind."`
			label listen
			`	The man pulls you aside to talk. "You see, one of our clients recently passed away, and in his will, he divided his property between each of his relatives. The only problem is that one of his family members, his niece, lives all the way down in the Rim. We would like you to deliver her portion of the inheritance, weighing <tons>, to her residence on <destination>. We can pay you <payment> upon completion of the job."`
			choice
				`	"I'll do it."`
					goto agree
				`	"What did she inherit?"`
				`	"Sorry, but I don't want to do this job."`
					goto nope
			`	"My sincerest apologies, but I'm afraid that is confidential information. Our prioritization of privacy is one of our main selling points."`
			choice
				`	"I'll take the job."`
				`	"I don't like the idea of carrying unknown cargo. Count me out."`
					goto nope
			label agree
			`	The man smiles. "I'm glad to hear that. We'll have the cargo loaded onto your ship by sundown." He walks away into the spaceport, leaving you to prepare for the journey.`
				accept
			label nope
			`	The man frowns. "I see. Well, I appreciate that you listened to our offer, and I hope that you may assist us at a later date. Farewell." He walks away into the spaceport but doesn't appear to seek out any other captains.`
				decline
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo on visit"
	on complete
		fail "Deal Change 2"
		payment 100000
		conversation
			`You step off your ship and order the spaceport crew to unload your cargo. As you do, a large, fat-lipped woman walks up to you and says in the most exaggerated manner possible, "Oh, thank you so much, Captain! You must have gone through so much trouble to help little old me!" She gasps. "Oh, silly old me! I forgot to tell you who I am! I'm the recipient of the inheritance from <origin>, of course! You have truly made a great contribution to the galaxy!" She chuckles.`
			choice
				`	"Thank you?"`
				`	"Could you tell me what the inheritance is?"`
			`	Before you can get a single word out, the woman exclaims, "I'll be sure to inform your employers of the wonderful work you've done. Ta ta!" She begins to swagger towards a cream-colored car as her inheritance is loaded into a truck beside it. When you return to your ship's cockpit, you find that <payment> have been deposited into your account.`



mission "Deal Change 2"
	landing
	name "Inheritance to <planet>"
	description "Instead of bringing the inheritance to Skymoot, deliver it to <destination>. You were promised <payment> for doing so. To bypass the spaceport toll, hail <planet> and read out the code to the spaceport authority."
	source
		attributes "dirt belt" "south" "rim"
		not planet "Greenrock"
	destination "Greenrock"
	clearance `You read out the code on the back of the paper you received and get a green light from Greenrock's authorities, along with a set of coordinates.`
	to offer
		has "Deal Change 1: active"
	on offer
		conversation
			`You touch down on <origin>'s surface and step out into the open air. The landing docks are emptier than usual, with only a handful of people walking around. Suddenly, you feel the wind knocked out of you as you collide with another person and fall on the pavement with a thud.`
			choice
				`	(Get up and apologize.)`
				`	(Get up and demand the other person's apology.)`
			`	You open your mouth as you lift yourself up, only to find that the other person is already gone. As you look around, you spot a piece of paper with writing lying on the ground beside you. You pick up the note and read it:`
			``
			`<first> <last>,`
			`		You are currently carrying five tons of cargo to Skymoot. This cargo has been described to you as an "inheritance," and you have been promised 100,000 credits as payment for the job. Under no circumstances should you allow the cargo to reach the destination. Instead, bring it to <destination>. You will be paid <payment> if you do so. The back of this note has a code you can use to gain clearance to land without the usual toll.`
			``
			`	You flip the paper over and see a string of letters and numbers. The note has no signature, nor anything else to identify the person who wrote it.`
			choice
				`	(Keep the note.)`
					goto accept
				`	(Throw the note away.)`
			`	You stand up and crumple the note in your hand before throwing it into a bin. You think you catch a glance of a cloaked figure, but don't meet any more trouble on your way to the spaceport.`
				decline
			label accept
			`	You stand up and stuff the note in your pocket before continuing towards the spaceport.`
				accept
	npc
		government "Bounty Hunter"
		personality staying nemesis
		system "Lesath"
		ship "Falcon (Heavy)" "Turncoat"
		ship "Clipper" "Deserter"
	npc
		government "Bounty Hunter"
		personality staying nemesis
		system "Shaula"
		ship "Osprey (Laser)" "Sellout"
	on complete
		fail "Deal Change 1"
		payment 300000
		conversation
			`You follow the coordinates to a clearing within the forests of Greenrock. Several other ships are present near the landing site, all of which wear pirate colors. A person wearing a cloak steps out of one of the vessels to greet you. "I am glad that you were able to trust us," they say. "My name is not Ci, but you may refer to me as such." A gang of pirates emerges from the foliage around your ship and begin to unload the cargo from your ship.`
			choice
				`	(Stay silent.)`
					goto skip
				`	"Can I ask you some questions?"`
			`	One of the pirates near you bares his pointy teeth, but Ci steps forward and raises their hand. "Please forgive the naivety of this captain," they say to the pirate before turning towards you. "I apologize, but I am afraid that I cannot answer your questions. This is a very volatile matter, and any misplaced information could spell death. You are safer knowing as little as possible."`
			choice
				`	"I understand."`
					goto skip
				`	"I'm taking back the cargo if you're not answering me."`
			`	Ci gestures towards the pirates around them. "Are you sure that is a wise choice, Captain?" They step closer. "The only reason you are still alive is because it is more convenient than killing you. It would be in your best interests to keep it that way."`
			choice
				`	"Okay, I'll stay quiet."`
					goto skip
				`	(Pull out my gun.)`
			`	The moment your hand touches the handle of your gun, you are blinded by bright lights and searing pain. You die before your body falls to the ground.`
				die
			label skip
			`	After a few minutes, the pirates finish unloading the cargo, and Ci steps forward, holding out a credit chip. "<payment>, for making the right choice." Ci and the pirates return to their ships as you take off and head towards the main spaceport of <planet>.`



mission "Escort offer (Betrayal)"
	minor
	landing
	name "Cargo to <planet>"
	description "Transport <tons> of cargo to <destination> by <date>. You will be paid <payment>. The captain of the <npc> has offered to protect you from any pirates along the way in exchange for a cut of the profits."
	deadline
	"apparent payment" 280000
	cargo "sealed barrels" 220
	source Sunracer
	destination Maelstrom
	to offer
		"armament deterrence" <= 2
		"cargo attractiveness" >= 6
	on offer
		"reputation: Escort (Betraying)" = 10
		conversation
			`As you land, a heavily modified Firebird with oversized guns follows you down, settling on the pad next to you. A young man with short hair steps out, walks over to your ship, and says, "Hey, you've got a lot of cargo space there. I bet you make loads of dough with it, trading or running jobs. Say, I know somebody who could use a ship like yours. He needs to get <tons> of cargo to <destination> by <day>, you see. Payment's about 350,000 credits. Lot of pirates round there, though. I can fight 'em, but there's not much money to be made hauling cargo in this thing." He gestures to his ship. "Tell you what, for 20% of the payment, I'll see to it that you arrive there safely. What do you think?"`
			choice
				`	"Sounds like a plan. You'll be taking 70,000 credits, then?"`
				`	"Sorry, that just sounds too dangerous for me."`
					decline
			`	"That's right. Now, let's go! The cargo'll be loaded on your ship by sundown. Oh, and if you didn't already know, you can get to <planet> from here in just four jumps. North, west, southwest, then south."`
				accept
	on enter Moktar
		dialog `As expected, there are pirates waiting for you in Moktar. Unfortunately, the <npc> makes no attempt to attack them, instead turning its guns on you.`
		dialog `You receive a hail from the <npc>: "Gotcha, you didn't suspect a thing!"`
		"reputation: Escort (Betraying)" <?= -1000
		fail
	on enter Menkar
		dialog `The <npc> hails you: "Wrong way, mate! You'll miss the deadline if you go the whole way round. Head back up to Mirfak, then north, west, southwest and south."`
	on enter Zaurak
		dialog `The <npc> hails you again: "Figured it out, did you? Bit late for that now, mate. You're still going down."`
		"reputation: Escort (Betraying)" <?= -1000
		fail
	on enter Oblate Cardax Volax Nihal Elnath Acamar Kugel Algol Hamal
		dialog `You receive a message from the <npc>, which is now several systems away: "Hello? You still there? I don't know what just happened, but on the off chance you're still alive, I thought I'd just let you know that the deal's off." You open up the cargo that he wanted you to carry, and find nothing but worthless barrels of water.`
		fail
	on abort
		dialog `The <npc> hails you: "Figured it out, did you? Bit late for that now, mate. You're still going down."`
		"reputation: Escort (Betraying)" <?= -1000
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality staying nemesis harvests plunders
		system Moktar
		ship "Splinter" "Hellblade"
	npc accompany save
		government "Escort (Betraying)"
		personality nemesis harvests plunders
		ship "Marauder Firebird (Weapons)" "Hellspear"



mission "Quicksilver Mixup 0"
	minor
	name "Package to Silver"
	description "Deliver a package to <planet> by <date>. Payment is <payment>."
	"apparent payment" 17100
	cargo package 1
	deadline 4 0
	to offer
		random < 25
	source
		near Algol 1 3
	destination Silver
	on offer
		conversation
			`You're looking at some job listings when a man with a harried face approaches you, carrying a package.`
			`	"Excuse me, Captain," he says. "I need this package delivered in the next four days. Details are on the package. I'll pay you <payment> once it's done." Without waiting for a response, he shoves the package into your hands and runs off to attend to whatever business has gotten him in such a hurry. The package is addressed to a location on <planet>.`
			branch "can't make it in time"
				"hyperjumps to planet: Silver" > 3
			`	It's going to be close to his deadline, but it's possible.`
				goto choice
			label "can't make it in time"
			`	How he expects you to deliver that package in four days is beyond you, seeing as <planet> is not within three jumps of <origin>, but you might as well try and get there as soon as possible.`
			label choice
			choice
				`	(Deliver the package.)`
				`	(Find another pilot to give the package to.)`
					goto declined
			`	You take the package to your ship, leave it in the cargo bay, and prepare for the flight to <planet>.`
				accept
			
			label declined
			`	It takes a while searching for a pilot who can handle the delivery, but you do eventually find one. You hand them the package, explain the situation, thank them, and leave.`
				decline
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo on visit"

mission "Quicksilver Mixup 1"
	name "Redirect Package to <planet>"
	description "Apparently the package labeled for <origin> was actually intended for <planet>. You'll have missed the deadline, so you probably won't be paid the <payment> offered."
	landing
	cargo package 1
	source Silver
	destination Quicksilver
	to offer
		not "Quicksilver Mixup 0: aborted"
		or
			has "Quicksilver Mixup 0: done"
			has "Quicksilver Mixup 0: failed"
	on offer
		conversation
			branch late
				not "Quicksilver Mixup 0: done"
			`Barely making the deadline, you take the package to the post office in <origin>'s spaceport. The service clerk immediately lets out a sigh of frustration before setting the package down on the counter in front of you.`
				goto "can't take package"
			
			label late
			`Despite missing the deadline, you take the package to the post office in <origin>'s spaceport. The service clerk immediately lets out a sigh of frustration before setting the package down on the counter in front of you.`
			
			label "can't take package"
			`	"I'm sorry, but we can't take this package," they say.`
			choice
				`	"Is something wrong?"`
					goto misdirected
				`	"What do you mean? Surely you can."`
			`	"Again, I'm sorry, but we can't send the package," they reiterate. "It's got an incorrect address.`
			label misdirected
			`	"This package is addressed to 2081 Amethyst Avenue, Mercury City, <origin>. Mercury City is <planet>'s capital. Y'know, that planet out east in Algol. Syndicate space. Not a place on <origin>. The package was posted to the wrong planet."`
			`	"Oh," you say.`
			`	"I've lost count of how many times this has happened just this month. <origin>, <planet>, I wonder what's the difference! At this point, I don't know why no one's started to regularly meet with <planet>'s postmaster to exchange all this wrongly-posted mail. Alright, here's a word of advice: I highly recommend you take a picture of the incorrect address. I've had plenty of captains get put on blast 'cause of an error the sender made. Not your fault it got addressed to the wrong planet."`
			`	You thank the clerk and take the package back to your ship.`
			choice
				`	(Take a picture of the incorrect address.)`
				`	(Don't bother taking a picture.)`
					accept
			action
				set "took picture of quicksilver package"
			`	You take a few photographs of the address label, just to be sure that you've got a clear picture of the wrong address.`
				accept
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo on visit"
	on complete
		payment 17100
		event "quicksilver mixup 2 available" 90
		conversation
			`When you talk to a post officer in <planet>'s spaceport and point out the incorrect address before handing it over, you note that he exhibits the same frustration the clerk on <origin> did regarding the frequent switch-ups. He takes the package, muttering something about off-worlders "not knowing the difference even if it smacked 'em in the face" as he did.`
			`	Once you return to your ship, you notice that the man who gave you that package had sent you a message. Or, to be more precise, a series of messages. An angry series of messages.`
			`	"WHAT TOOK YOU SO LONG???"`
			`	"I NEEDED THAT DELIVERED DAYS AGO!!!"`
			branch picture "didn't take picture"
				has "took picture of quicksilver package"

			label picture
			`	You send the man the picture you took of his error and point out that it was his mistake that got the package sent to the wrong place. You politely inform him that, had he wanted a smoother delivery, he should've filed a proper job listing and made sure that he placed the correct address.`
			branch "picture success" "picture failure"
				random < 50

			label "picture failure"
			action
				payment -17100
			`	He doesn't respond.`
				decline

			label "picture success"
			action
				payment 5000
			`	He sees the message, but doesn't send a reply. Just before you walk away from your ship's terminal, you see a new message appear:`
			`	"I am so sorry."`
			`	The man then proceeds to apologize profusely for his mistake and his outburst, offering to pay an extra 5,000 credits for the trouble. You gladly accept.`
				decline

			label "didn't take picture"
			action
				payment -17100
			`	You try to defend yourself, but the man remains adamant that it was your mistake that got the package sent so late. After a frustrating back-and-forth, you decide to relent and (reluctantly) offer an apology. He ignores it and threatens to get spaceport authorities to "STOP OFFERING JOBS TO INCOMPETENTS LIKE YOU."`
			`	You don't bother to reply.`
			

event "quicksilver mixup 2 available"


mission "Quicksilver Mixup 2"
	name "Misposted Mail Delivery"
	description "Deliver <tons> of misposted mail from <origin> to <planet> by <date> and then come back with the return shipment. You will be paid <payment> after you return from <planet>."
	minor
	deadline 10 1
	source "Silver"
	destination "Quicksilver"
	cargo "misposted mail" 38
	"apparent payment" 100000
	to offer
		has "Quicksilver Mixup 1: done"
		has "event: quicksilver mixup 2 available"
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you walk through <origin>'s spaceport, somebody wearing office attire and carrying a tablet power walks up to you after ending a hurried conversation with another pilot.`
			`	"Captain! I work for the postmaster's office. The regular pilot who carries misposted mail to <planet> and back couldn't make it this month - some mechanical issues with his ship, I'm told. Would you be willing to carry this month's load there by <day> and then return with the mail from <planet>? We'll pay you what he'd be paid: <payment>."`
			choice
				`	"Oh, so you guys did set up that regular shipment after all!"`
					goto context

				`	"Sure, how much mail are we talking about?"`
					goto shipment

				`	"Sorry, but I'm not heading in that direction."`
					goto refuse

			label context
			`	The mail employee appears confused for a moment, leaning his head to the side slightly.`
			choice
				`	"I once delivered a misposted package like that, and the clerk mentioned that it happened so often somebody should set up a regular delivery."`
				`	"Never mind. What's the size of the shipment?"`
					goto shipment
			`	The post employee smiles and responds, "Oh! That was me, actually, back when I worked as a clerk for the post office. I was sick of always having that same conversation with so many pilots a day, so I went out and found a captain to set up a regular delivery with and made the proposal to my boss, who was just as sick of my and the <planet> postmaster's endless reports. Got a bonus and promotion for it; I'm now responsible for the delivery's management, instead! Anyways, are you interested in covering for them?"`
			choice
				`	"Yeah, what's the size of the shipment?"`
					goto shipment
				`	"Sorry, but I'm not able to work that into my plans."`
					goto refuse

			label shipment
			`	The man takes a look at his tablet and says, "This week, it totaled... <tons> of letters and miscellaneous packages here, and then 29 tons to be brought back from Quicksilver."`
			`	"<tons> of misposted packages? Just this month?!" you ask.`
			`	He nods. "Told you it happened often. And only a few of these packages even weigh over a kilo! Big shipments hardly get misposted; it's mostly private citizens who make these kinds of mistakes. Mostly. You'd be amazed!"`
			`	You two shake hands and arrange for the misposted packages to be loaded onto the <ship>. Time to head to <planet>.`
				accept

			label refuse
			`	The mail employee thanks you for your time, and continues his search for a willing captain. At least pilots that get hired to deliver such wrongly-posted packages, like you once did, won't have to finish those deliveries themselves in the future.`
				decline
	on visit
		dialog `You have reached <planet>, but your escort, loaded with the shipment, has not arrived. Better depart and wait for your escorts to arrive in this star system.`
	on complete
		dialog `You contact the spaceport authorities and they direct you to the respective landing pad, where the post office staff is already waiting. They transfer the cargo and you prepare to head back to <origin>. Again, you have 10 days to make the delivery.`


mission "Quicksilver Mixup 3"
	name "Misposted Mail Delivery"
	deadline 10 1
	landing
	description "Return to <planet> with <cargo>. You will be paid <payment>."
	source "Quicksilver"
	destination "Silver"
	cargo "misposted mail" 29
	to offer
		has "Quicksilver Mixup 2: done"
	on visit
		dialog `You have reached <planet>, but your escort carrying the misposted mail has not arrived. Better depart and wait for your escorts to arrive in this star system.`
	on complete
		payment 100000
		dialog `The same manager from before is waiting with the unloading crew, and thanks you for covering for the other pilot before handing you the credit chip for payment. It's nice to know that captains who get hired to deliver such wrongly-posted packages, like you once did, won't have to finish those deliveries themselves in the future."`



mission "Argosy Hijacking"
	minor
	landing
	name "Stop Ship Hijacking"
	description "The <npc> was hijacked on <origin>; disable it and return to <origin>. Do not board, capture, or destroy it; Syndicated Security will deal with the hijackers in space after you have disabled it."
	source
		government "Syndicate"
		not attributes "station"
		not near "Sol" 3
	to offer
		"combat rating" > 200
		random < 5
		or
			and
				not "FW Pug 1: offered"
				not "FWC Pug 1: offered"
			has "main plot completed"
	on offer
		conversation
			`You're signing the standard Syndicate landing papers with an officer on <origin>. "Everything seems to be in order. And of course, we'll have your ship refueled promptly. Have a good day, Captain <last>." He nods his head at you and starts to move off towards the next ship.`
			`	Before he can make it there, you hear a commotion by the <npc>, the <npc model> on the landing pad next to you.`
			choice
				`	(Turn around to see what's going on.)`
					goto turn
				`	(Ignore the commotion.)`
					goto ignore
			label turn
			`	Both of you turn your heads towards the <npc> to see what's happening, but as you do you hear the deafening blare of warning sirens through <origin>'s spaceport; at the same time, the <npc> suddenly jolts up with its loading ramp still extended.`
				goto hijack
			
			label ignore
			`	You turn back towards the <ship> only to hear the deafening blares of warning sirens through <origin>'s spaceport. Looking around instinctively, you notice the <npc> jolting up with its loading ramp still extended.`

			label hijack
			`	"Hey, what's going on here?" the officer tries to shout over the noise of the sirens and the repulsors, but the rogue <npc model> veers rapidly and uncertainly towards you and the officer.`
			choice
				`	(Jump for cover.)`
				`	(Take a shot at the <npc model> with your sidearm.)`
					goto shoot
			`	Both of you barely jump down for cover before the ship clips a stack of cargo crates, sending them flying into the refueling platform. The Quad Blaster Turret mounted on the top of the <npc model> swivels around aimlessly, then fires without warning, its energy bolts scattering some of the startled onlookers nearby and sending up debris where they hit the ground. It comes dangerously close to colliding with the <ship> before it veers off to the side and sends its repulsors into full thrust, fleeing away into the sky.`
				goto dazed

			label shoot
			`	You fire a shot right at the cockpit with your pistol but the shot is absorbed by the <npc model>'s shield matrix, rendering it useless. The <npc> flies right over you, sending you backwards and into the ground.`
			`	You prop yourself up to hear the <npc model>'s Quad Blaster Turret fire aimlessly around the spaceport, shortly replaced by the sounds of its repulsors being sent up to full thrust. By the time you get up, the <npc> has already started fleeing off into the sky.`

			label dazed
			`	The Syndicated Security officer, dazed and coated in dust kicked up from the unpermitted departure, only just pulls himself up before another person runs up to accost him. "Oi, those kids, they just hijacked my <npc model>! Get someone on their tail!"`
			choice
				`	"I'll do it!"`
				`	(Let Syndicated Security deal with it.)`
					goto "security job"
			`	The captain of the stolen <npc model> turns towards you. "Thank you, Captain! Don't destroy the <npc>, I'm already late for my bloody contract. Agh, this doesn't help at all," he mutters to himself.`
			`	The officer looks back at you, having dusted himself off and regained his senses. "Yes, go and deal with his ship now. Don't board it, we'll have Syndicated Security ships come after you to board the hijacked ship and tug it down. Go!"`
			`	You run towards the <ship> and take off after the hijacked <npc>...`
				launch
			
			label "security job"
			`	The officer, slightly flustered, calls for a small squadron of Syndicated Security ships to chase the hijacked <npc>, then runs off to one of <origin>'s spaceport terminals to file the paperwork with the captain.`
				decline
	
	npc disable save
		personality launching daring uninterested target
			confusion 80
		government "Bounty (Disguised)"
		ship "Argosy (Blaster)" "Moonshake Express"
		dialog `The <npc> has been disabled. Syndicated Security will now deal with the hijackers, but you should go back and report to the captain of the ship.`
		on board
			set "boarded hijacked argosy"
			dialog `You've boarded the Moonshake Express, against the orders of the Syndicated Security officer. The ship's captain won't be impressed.`
			fail
		on kill
			set "destroyed hijacked argosy"
			dialog `You have destroyed the Moonshake Express. The ship's captain won't be impressed.`

	on fail
		conversation
			branch fail
				or
					has "boarded hijacked argosy"
					has "destroyed hijacked argosy"
			`You've landed without disabling the <npc>. It's probably gone now, but you might want to report to its captain.`
			choice
				`	(Find the captain.)`
				`	(Don't worry about it.)`
					decline
			`	You find him in the spaceport lounge. As you walk in, he recognizes you and calls you over. "How are you doing? Did you recover the <npc>?"`
			choice
				`	"No, I wasn't able to."`
				`	"It fled before I could disable it."`
				`	"I blew it up, just like you wanted."`
					goto blew
			`	He frowns at this and lets out a sigh. "Well, I'll contact security and let them deal with this. Don't worry, they'll sort it out. But thanks for getting back to me about it." He walks off towards the Syndicated Security offices.`
				decline

			label blew
			`	He jolts his head back. "What'd you say?"`
			choice
				`	"Yeah, I blew it up."`
					goto destroyed
				`	"The hijackers got away, sorry."`
			`	He sighs and says, "Man, I don't have time for this. Tell me what actually happened."`
			choice
				`	"I blew it up, didn't you hear me?"`
				`	"Your ship got away. That's what happened."`
			`	"If you're going to waste my time, get out of here." Before you can react, he storms off towards the Syndicated Security offices.`
				decline

			label fail
			`When you land, the captain of the <npc> comes up to you, his face rather red.`
			branch boarded destroyed
				and
					has "boarded hijacked argosy"
					not "destroyed hijacked argosy"
			label boarded
			`	He grabs your shoulders and shakes you hard, shouting, "Didn't I tell you not to board my ship? Do you know how many credits I've just lost because of you?"`
			choice
				`	"I'm sorry, I was just trying to help!"`
				`	"I'm sure whatever you lost wasn't worth all that much."`
					goto worthless
			`	He stops shaking you for a moment to say, "Well, you didn't need to shoot up the insides of my <npc model> while you were trying to help, weren't you? Fat lot of help that was, even if you tried to do the right thing. Oh, well..."`
			`	The captain lets you go with a push and turns around to walk off towards the direction of the bar, leaving you to contemplate your actions.`
				decline

			label destroyed
			`	He grabs your shoulders and shakes you hard, shouting, "Didn't I tell you not to destroy my ship? Do you know how many credits I've just lost because of you?"`
			choice
				`	"I'm sorry, I was just trying to help!"`
				`	"I'm sure whatever you lost wasn't worth all that much."`
					goto worthless
			`	He stops shaking you for a moment to say, "Well, you shouldn't have blown up my <npc model> while you were trying to help, weren't you? Fat lot of help that was, even if you tried to do the right thing. Oh, well..."`
			`	The captain lets you go with a push and turns around to walk off towards the direction of the bar, leaving you to contemplate your actions.`
				decline

			label worthless
			`	He looks at you incredulously, scrunching up his face. "Not--not that much? Is that what you just said?" He pauses for a moment to look at the wall above you with a lost look in his eyes. "That was my life's work up there, an <npc model> that had served me for 14 years, and you have the audacity to say it was all for nothing?!"`
			choice
				`	"Well, yeah."`
				`	"No, that's not what I meant."`
			`	The captain scoffs, staring you down again with even more intensity than before, and lets you go with a rough push. "I don't need your explanation, and I don't think you could give me one. I just can't understand how you can walk away feeling alright that you've set back one man's life so much."`
			`	Suddenly, he turns around and walks off towards the direction of the bar, leaving you to contemplate your actions.`
				decline

	on visit
		fail

	on complete
		log `Helped an unfortunate captain recover his Argosy after a bunch of delinquents hijacked it.`
		payment 48000
		conversation
			`As you land, Syndicated Security have the <npc> in tow, escorted by a trio of Quicksilvers. The formation lands on one of the larger pads reserved for Syndicated Security vessels, fenced off from the rest of the spaceport.`
			`	The hijackers, just a raucous group of young kids, are hauled out of the <npc model> by Syndicated Security personnel towards an armored van. Multiple times the kids try to run away, but after a few minutes they're finally detained; the van drives off towards the spaceport terminal.`
			`	After the incident is wrapped up, the captain of the <npc> sends you <payment>, and a message thanking you for helping him recover his ship.`



mission "Blind Man from Martini"
	name "Transport a blind passenger to <planet>"
	description "This blind man, Douglas, wishes to be transported to <destination>, so he can be with his daughter while she undergoes treatment there. He will pay you <payment>."
	source Martini
	destination Chiron
	to offer
		has "main plot completed"
		random < 15
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you walk through <origin>'s cramped new planetary spaceport, you see a middle-aged man on the other side of the corridor, behind a column of people. He sits on a bench with a suitcase at his side, doing nothing particular aside from the occasional tap of his cane when someone passes by.`
			choice
				`	(Go up to him.)`
				`	(Ignore him.)`
					decline
			`	Wading through the mix of passengers, stevedores, and captains in the overflowing corridor, you reach the man with the cane. It's obvious now that he's blind; he doesn't move to look at you and continues looking straight ahead, but he taps his cane twice when you come by him.`
			choice
				`	"Hello."`
				`	"Are you alright?"`
				`	(Never mind.)`
					decline
			`	"Yes, hello, how are you doing?" the man responds, shifting his head toward your direction. "I'm here waiting for someone to pick me up," he says in a voice that sounds like he expects it at any moment.`

			label questions
			choice
				`	"Are they far away?"`
					goto far
					to display
						not "Blind Man from Martini: label far"
				`	"Who is it you're looking for?"`
					goto looking
					to display
						has "Blind Man from Martini: label far"
						not "Blind Man from Martini: label looking"
				`	"Where is she?"`
					goto somewhere
					to display
						has "Blind Man from Martini: label looking"
				`	"I see. Safe travels to you." (Walk away.)`
					decline
			
			label far
			action
				set "Blind Man from Martini: label far"
			`	"Well, I suppose you could say that they are far away, or they could be right here. I don't know." He taps his cane twice more.`
				goto questions
			
			label looking
			action
				set "Blind Man from Martini: label looking"
			`	"Someone to take me to my daughter, Anita." Yet again, his cane taps twice.`
				goto questions

			label somewhere
			`	He looks over to his side, as if he feels reserved about something. "She's on <planet>, getting some experimental treatment from the University of New Sydney. I want to be by her side if anything goes wrong, to tell her that I'm there for her, that I love her, and that everything will be okay. She's been waiting for the treatment for so long now. And since nobody else seems to have arrived here yet, I hope you'll be the one to take me there."`
			choice
				`	"Of course, I can take you to <planet>."`
				`	"Sorry, I won't be able to."`
					goto can't
			`	The man musters a broad smile, says "Thank you all too much. Would you like to help me with the luggage?" He scans the floor with his cane for it. Later, while boarding, he tells you his name is Douglas Pears, and he promises to you <payment> for transporting him.`
				accept

			label can't
			`	"Then I will wait until another comes to help me." The blind man taps his cane once more, then returns to looking straight ahead.`
				decline

	on complete
		log `Brought a blind man named Douglas to Chiron so he could visit his daughter, who will undergo experimental treatment at the University of New Sydney.`
		payment 58000
		conversation
			`Throughout the trip, Douglas has been relatively quiet and has kept to himself. When you land, he lets you help him bring down his luggage once more; it turns out you needn't have done so because an attendant from the planetary spaceport quickly comes to his side. He guides both of you to the spaceport's intracity transit complex; the bustling spaceport makes it a challenge to keep together, but all of you manage to reach it. From there, you hail a taxi while Douglas arranges for the <payment> to be sent to you.`
			`	"Well, I must go now to the University of New Sydney. They and my daughter are expecting me at their Health Sciences quarter."`
			choice
				`	"Goodbye."`
					goto bye
				`	"I hope your daughter has a safe recovery."`
					goto recovery
				`	"Everything is going to be alright."`
					goto recovery
				`	"Could I come with you?"`
					goto "come along"
			label bye
			`	"Bye, now. I wish you greater luck in your travels and your sights." With that, he taps his cane twice, and then steps into one of New Sydney's taxis, going toward the University of New Sydney campus on the far side of town.`
				decline

			label recovery
			`	"Yes, thank you so much. I hope so too, of course; actually, it's a little foolish saying that, of course I do. But now I have to go. Again, thank you for making this journey possible."`
			choice
				`	"Goodbye."`
					goto bye
				`	"Could I come with you?"`
					goto "come along"
			
			label "come along"
			`	Douglas looks taken aback for a moment, but says, "Well, I suppose you can come along. I'm not sure if the university would let you in, though. But I think Anita would like to meet you, or at least say hello." You get into the taxi with him, and it starts toward New Sydney's University District.`

			# The player can do three actions before arriving at the hospital.
			label taxi
			branch questions hospital
				"Blind Man from Martini: taxi questions count" != 3
			label questions
			choice
				`	"How did you become blind?"`
					goto blind
					to display
						not "Blind Man from Martini: label blind"

				`	"How did becoming blind change your life?"`
					goto blind1
					to display
						has "Blind Man from Martini: label blind"
						not "Blind Man from Martini: label blind-1"

				`	"How do you feel about the atomic bombings?"`
					goto "atomic bombings"
					to display
						has "Blind Man from Martini: label blind"
						not "Blind Man from Martini: label atomic-bombings"

				`	"Was your daughter caught in the atomic bombings?"`
					goto daughter
					to display
						or
							has "Blind Man from Martini: label blind"
							has "Blind Man from Martini: label illness"
						not "Blind Man from Martini: label daughter"
				
				`	"What happened to your daughter?"`
					goto illness
					to display
						not "Blind Man from Martini: label illness"
						has "Blind Man from Martini: label daughter"

				`	(Stay silent.)`
					goto waiting
					to display
						not "Blind Man from Martini: label waiting"

			label blind
			action
				set "Blind Man from Martini: label blind"
				"Blind Man from Martini: taxi questions count" ++
			`	"It was the fourth of July, 3014. I was in my office, on one of the high rises on the outskirts of the capital, with my office window pointed right at the city center." He turns to look out the window, as if he knew New Sydney's skyline was out there where he couldn't see. In the small lull, he takes an audible breath.`
			`	"It was a beautiful day that day. I... I remember that Pollux was especially bright and colorful that day, and the songbirds that inhabited the city were alive with sound. They were unusually so. It was very vivid, very strange. Maybe I should have listened to the birds...`
			`	"But when the bomb dropped, I was looking right at it, from my office window. All I could remember next was that I was in a lot of pain, that I couldn't see, but one of my colleagues - thank goodness for her - found me afterwards, during the evacuation, covered in glass from the shockwave. I survived mostly because I was sitting at my terminal and that protected me from the bulk of the shards."`
				goto taxi

			label blind1
			action
				set "Blind Man from Martini: label blind-1"
				"Blind Man from Martini: taxi questions count" ++
			`	"Hmm... well, it was really only one of many things that hit my life then, not least of which was my newfound blindness, and the loss of my company and my job." He gives a heavy sigh, and he shifts in his seat as if something heavy was placed on his shoulders. "I was able to keep things intact for a while, but no, it was too much. Anything can be taken away from you if you get too used to it."`
				goto taxi
			
			label "atomic bombings"
			action
				set "Blind Man from Martini: label atomic-bombings"
				"Blind Man from Martini: taxi questions count" ++
			`	"How do I feel about the bombings? Well, they changed everything. In some ways I'm very grateful that it showed - no, it exposed to me, that people, they- there's people that live this way. With no sight. Who need other people to help them just... live. And that there are plenty of people who don't have people to help them live. I was lucky, I could get treatment for my blindness. But others, no...`
			# This will need to be updated once new Human campaigns are written.
			branch reconciliation checkmate
				has "free worlds reconciliation"
			label reconciliation
			`	"And for the bombings themselves, they were certainly a malicious act. The Syndicate needs to take full accountability for it, not only for the people who were killed or affected in some form or another. I'm too cynical to say that they will, with all the power they still have in Parliament."`
				goto taxi

			label checkmate
			`	"And for the bombings themselves, they were certainly a malicious act. I hear the authorities are still investigating the bombings, although it's very curious that Korban, the CEO of the Syndicate, resigned as soon as the Republic started poking their heads that way. I'm still not sure who's responsible for the bombings, the deaths, the war... I can only hope the investigation will be thorough."`
				goto taxi

			label daughter
			action
				set "Blind Man from Martini: label daughter"
				"Blind Man from Martini: taxi questions count" ++
			`	"Luckily, my daughter was off-planet during the bombings. Anita was studying nanoengineering on Vinci and was going to apply for a job at Polymath there. But she gave that up to come take care of me after the bombings. When things were more ironed over, it was the midst of the civil war, and she managed to go back to Vinci and work at Polymath then, but... well, she has not been well since then."`
				goto taxi

			label illness
			action
				set "Blind Man from Martini: label illness"
				"Blind Man from Martini: taxi questions count" ++
			`	"I don't know if I really should tell you this, but Anita was working on a project on nanomachines at Polymath when she got back. She was, uh... infected by them by accident. The experimental treatment is meant to try and eliminate the rogue machines, but since they're so small... that's why the treatment is experimental."`
				goto taxi

			label waiting
			action
				"Blind Man from Martini: taxi questions count" ++
			`	Deciding not to ask Douglas anything, you look out the windows of the taxi. You're in the midst of New Sydney, and skyscrapers stare down at your tiny taxi from each side of the avenue, but despite this it is still quite green and cheery, with trees on each side and people walking to work in the morning.`
				to display
					"Blind Man from Martini: taxi questions count" == 1
				goto taxi

			`	As the taxi drives on a highway on the edge of a small hill, the window gives you a panorama of the suburbs of New Sydney and the two skylines on each side, one marking the commercial sector where the spaceport is prominent in its gleaming steel-glass architecture, and the other being the University District, a series of clean and white, flowing buildings and skyscrapers. Far away on the horizon, you can barely notice the smokestacks of factories.`
				to display
					"Blind Man from Martini: taxi questions count" == 2
				goto taxi

			`	The taxi enters the University district proper now, and the window shows thongs of energetic university students from the University of New Sydney travelling to and from lectures and classrooms; going over steel walkways that run from building to building above you, and on footpaths beside the streets; clutching their backpacks and data pads. Your datapad shows that University isn't actually the only university district in New Sydney. The University of Chiron's campus is on the other side of town, presumably to keep the fierce competition between the two institutions from boiling over each other.`
				to display
					"Blind Man from Martini: taxi questions count" == 3
				goto taxi

			label hospital
			`	Eventually, the taxi passes by a sign for the "UNS Health Sciences" quarter, which by the looks of it takes up an entire section of the University District. The taxi pulls up beside the entrance of the university hospital, where you help Douglas out with his luggage. The building is stark from the outside, to match the architecture of the surroundings, yet strangely colorful on the inside, as if the person building it decided that hospital interiors were far too unimaginative.`
			`	After a short queue, you reach the reception with Douglas. The receptionist, placed behind a sterile-looking screen that looks far out of place with the colorful hallways, asks with a well-practiced smile, "How may I help you?"`
			choice
				`	"We're looking for Anita Pears. Where can we find her?"`
			`	For a moment, the receptionist shuffles information around on her terminal. "Is one of you a parent?"`
			`	"I'm the father, Douglas Pears," he replies.`
			`	She takes a few more seconds before looking at you and saying, "Ah, but we cannot let you in. Only Mr. Pears is booked in for his daughter's procedure; we have a family-only policy, to keep the privacy of our patients."`
			choice
				`	"Alright."`
					goto end
				`	"Are you sure?"`
			`	"We can't allow immediate exceptions, sorry. There's nothing I can do."`
			label end
			`	Douglas gives you a compassionate look, and says to the receptionist, "There'll be no worry." He turns back to you once more and says, "I'm sure that when Anita is recovered and well, we can meet again some day. I don't want to keep you from your business too long, either. I expect ship captains are busy folk." He comes up to you and, to your surprise, gives you a hug. "Thank you so much for bringing me here and coming along with me. I really can't say how I want to express my gratitude. But I hope we meet again. Farewell."`
			choice
				`	"Goodbye."`
				`	"Farewell to you too."`
			action
				clear "Blind Man from Martini: label blind"
				clear "Blind Man from Martini: label blind-1"
				clear "Blind Man from Martini: label atomic-bombings"
				clear "Blind Man from Martini: label illness"
				clear "Blind Man from Martini: label daughter"
				clear "Blind Man from Martini: label waiting"
				clear "Blind Man from Martini: taxi questions count"
				clear "Blind Man from Martini: label far"
				clear "Blind Man from Martini: label looking"
			`	With that, he grabs his cane and his luggage, and follows a hospital attendant toward his daughter's room, leaving you in the reception.`

mission "Care Package to South 1"
	minor
	name "Care package to <planet>"
	description "An activist named Torrey has asked you to take a care package to her friend, an NCO named Irene in the Southern Mutual Defense Pact militia, stationed on <destination>. Payment is <payment>."
	source
		government "Republic" "Syndicate"
		attributes "near earth"
		not attributes "station"
	destination
		attributes "rim" "south"
		not government "Pirate"
		not system "Alniyat" "Atria" "Han"
		not planet "Glaze"
	to offer
		not "event: war begins"
		random < 65
	cargo "care package" 1
	on offer
		conversation
			`Among the bustle of the spaceport, one figure catches your attention. A woman stands alone on one side of the passageway with a bubble of space around her that is maintained by sheer force of personality. She doesn't seem to be saying anything, at least. As you get closer, you notice a large package at her feet. Something about you catches her attention, and she looks you in the eye and beckons.`
			choice
				`	(Go over to her.)`
				`	(Ignore her.)`
					decline
			`	You make your way through the crowd to the edge of her bubble. As soon as you do, she extends her hand. "I'm Torrey. Torrey Dupont."`
			`	You take the hand and shake it. "<first> <last>."`
			`	"I can tell you're an independent captain. I would like to hire you to transport a package." Torrey indicates the box beside her with a nudge of her toe.`
			choice
				`	"What's in the box?"`
				`	"Why can't you send it via the job board?"`
					goto commercial
			`	She glances down at it. "It's nothing too special - some local stuff from around here. Mostly foods and things that you just can't get made the same anywhere else."`
			`	"Why can't you send it via the job board?" you ask.`
			label commercial
			`	Torrey gives a sardonic smile. "Well, yes; the thing is, I'm sending it to a friend who's an NCO in the militia for the Southern Mutual Defense Pact. Normally, of course, that would be fine, but... then there's who I am." She reaches into a pocket and pulls out a piece of paper - a printout of a news headline. "Protests Block Access To Council Chambers For Fourth Straight Day." Underneath the headline is a picture of Torrey holding up a sign decrying recent actions by the government.`
			`	"So you see," she continues, "I'm already being watched by the Republic government. What with the rumors lately, I really don't want to do anything that would throw any suspicion onto Irene, but..." She glances down at the box. "She's really been missing some of the stuff from home, and I don't want to make her life less pleasant because of what I've been doing."`
			choice
				`	"All right; I'll deliver the package."`
					goto deliver
				`	"I don't support those protests, or the people who participate in them."`
				`	"If you're being watched, then I might get in trouble too. Sorry."`
			`	Torrey grimaces, but nods. "That's understandable. Well, have a good day, then." She turns back to looking out at the passing crowds, and you head back on your way.`
				decline
			label deliver
			`	Torrey breaks out into a brilliant grin. "Well, that's great news, then. You'll find Irene at the militia base on <destination> - that's Gunnery Sergeant Irene Brower. I do appreciate this. You'll be paid upon receipt of the package, too, lest you think my appreciation is all I can give."`
			`	She picks up the package and hands it to you; it's surprisingly heavy, but doesn't seem to shift or rattle at all as you settle it in your arms to carry to your ship.`
				accept
	on complete
		payment 7500 750
		log "Minor People" "Torrey and Irene" `Torrey Dupont, an activist, is friends with SMDP militia NCO Irene Brower. You delivered a package for them.`
		conversation
			`You arrive at the militia base on <destination>, and ask at the gate for Gunnery Sergeant Irene Brower. After a few minutes, a compact young woman with close-cropped blonde hair appears and walks over. When she sees the package at your feet, her face splits into a lopsided grin and her steps quicken. "I see you've brought me a package; this must be from Torrey! She said she was sending something."`
			`	You nod, introduce yourself, and briefly recount your meeting with her friend on <origin>. Irene laughs. "Yep, that's her. Well, thank you so much for bringing this." She hefts the heavy box with no apparent effort, gives you a firm nod, and turns to head back into the base.`
			`	Before going more than three steps, she stops and turns back to you. "Oh, sorry - I'll authorize your payment as soon as I get back to my room. I don't have it with me."`
			`	Sure enough, less than five minutes later, your communicator bleeps and reports that <payment> have been credited to your account.`

mission "Care Package to South 2"
	landing
	source "Rust"
	to offer
		has "Care Package to South 1: done"
		has "FW Pirates: Diplomacy 4: done"
		not "event: navy occupying the north"
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you step out of your ship, you spot a familiar face: Irene Brower, the gunnery sergeant you delivered a care package to before the war, though she seems to have master sergeant insignia now. She's on crutches, with what looks like a brand-new prosthetic leg. When she spots you, her pained face brightens. "Hey, I know you! You brought me that package from Tor before. Thanks!" She shifts her weight, then winces and shifts it back.`
			`	She notices you looking at her leg, and grins lopsidedly. "Yeah. My CO thought it was a good idea to follow Voigt's plan to suppress the pirates on Greenrock. To be honest, I agreed with him at the time." She pauses a moment. "Now, not so sure, and not just because a blown-out shield capacitor lost me a leg. I heard what happened on Thule, both the good and the bad of it."`
			choice
				`	"I'm so sorry for your loss."`
					goto sorry
				`	"So... that prosthetic is very new, then?"`
					goto new
				`	"With that prosthetic, soon you'll have a leg up on the rest of us, eh?"`
			`	She grins broadly at your pun. "Yep! Just here to get a float chair for the first few weeks of adjustment."`
				goto leave
			label sorry
			`	She waves it off, but her face softens. "Thanks. I'm here to pick up a float chair, for the first six weeks of adjustment."`
				goto leave
			label new
			`	She nods. "Yep, just came from getting it fitted, and gotta check in at the quartermaster's to get myself a float chair for the first six weeks of adjustment to it."`
			label leave
			`	"Six months of medical leave, then I'll be back in action. And hopefully assigned to ships a little less eager to jump into the thick of it when it's not really necessary, eh?"`
			`	You join in her wry chuckle, then she gives you a wave with one crutch and bids you farewell.`
				decline



mission "Lost Racer 1"
	name "Search for Artemis Renard"
	description "Bring a missing racing pilot's father to <destination> by <date>, passing through the <waypoints> systems. You will be paid <payment>."
	minor
	passengers 1
	deadline
	source
		near "Kursa" 4
		attributes "paradise"
		not attributes "station" "tourism"
	waypoint "Volax"
	waypoint "Cardax"
	waypoint "Moktar"
	destination "Sunracer"
	to offer
		"combat rating" > 40
		random < 80
	on offer
		conversation
			`While wandering the <origin> spaceport, waiting for your ship to be refueled, you notice a commotion near one of the other hangars; someone appears to be shouting. As you approach the disturbance, you see a well-dressed older man engaged in a heated discussion with a Navy officer beside a parked Frigate being loaded with supplies. After a few more shouts and a dismissive wave by the officer, the man turns away, exasperated - then spots you and walks over.`
			`	"You," the man says, "you're an independent captain, aren't you? You take jobs for credits?" He winces a little bit after he says it, maybe a little embarrassed by his bluntness.`
			choice
				`	"I'm Captain <last>, and yes, I do."`
				`	"It depends on the job."`
					goto depends
			`	"Oh. That's good to hear. I'm sorry for being so brusque with you - my daughter's ship has gone missing. She's a racing pilot, the best to come out of the Paradise Worlds three times over. It's got to be foul play: pirates or a jealous competitor. That's what I told that useless Navy woman, that they've got to put out a search, but she says that she has to have authorization..." He pauses for a moment, realizing he's gone off-track.`
				goto help
			label depends
			`	He sighs. "It's search-and-rescue; my daughter's ship has gone missing. She's a racing pilot, the best to come out of the Paradise Worlds three times over. It's got to be foul play: pirates or a jealous competitor. That's what I told that useless Navy woman, that they've got to put out a search, but she says that she has to have authorization..." He pauses for a moment, realizing he's gone off-track.`
			label help
			`	"Again, I'm sorry. You don't need to hear all that. The loop was through Mirfak. I just need to know if you can take me to <planet> and scan for her transponder in those uninhabited systems north of there. Money is no object."`
			choice
				`	"I'd be happy to help."`
					goto agree
				`	"I'm sorry, but I can't transport you. You'll have to find another captain."`
			`	A flicker of emotions crosses the man's face: anger, scorn, resignation. "I thought you'd be better than those Navy bastards," he says, shaking his head. "Well, I hope I can find someone in this place with a shred of decency before she dies out there." He walks away, his disappointment heavy in the air.`
				decline
			label agree
			`	The man exhales, relieved. "Thank you so much," he says. "My name is August Renard, and my daughter is Artemis. She's out there, I know it, but we'd better get moving soon."`
			choice
				`	"My ship is as fast as they come. We'll find her in no time."`
					goto fast
				`	"Artemis Renard? I think I heard she won something recently... maybe in Betelgeuse?"`
			`	"Ah, yes," the man says with pride in his voice. "The Betelgeuse Classic. Contestants run a circuit of every planet and major moon in the system and hit every marker in an equatorial orbit without refueling. They've been doing it since the Firebird was new, and no one's done it faster than my daughter - no one. She's the best; that's how I know something's gone wrong. Tell your people to warm up the engines."`
				goto board
			label fast
			`	"I appreciate your pride in your ship. I've heard 'fast as they come' for twenty years now, and I've never needed it more than today."`
			label board
			`	You lead Mr. Renard to your ship, which he boards with unusual nimbleness and comfort for an old man from the Paradise Worlds.`
				accept
	on waypoint
		dialog "You've passed through all three systems outlined in the search plan, running long-range deep scans for Artemis Renard's transponder in each, but all you've gotten back is static. As far as you can tell, she's not in any of them."
	on complete
		payment 100000


mission "Lost Racer 2 - Ended"
	landing
	name "Return to <planet>"
	description "You have decided not to continue the search for Artemis Renard. Return her grieving father August to <destination>."
	source "Sunracer"
	destination "Glory"
	passengers 1
	to offer
		has "Lost Racer 1: done"
	on offer
		conversation
			`You were unable to find Artemis Renard in any of the three uninhabited systems, and you have watched hope fade into desperation in her father with each successive failure. You can't imagine he's been getting much sleep.`
			`	During the landing on <planet>, you notice that there is a great deal of race infrastructure still in place around the planet and spaceport: large camera drones remain in low orbit, and the spaceport is filled with a variety of ships in racing livery. A mostly depleted Navy contingent remains, empty areas testifying to the ongoing hunt, while the few remaining officers interview racers, organizers, and spectators. The spaceport seems busier and more hectic than usual.`
			`	"I've got to speak with the race coordinators here," says Mr. Renard, striding towards the marshal station. "I see the marshals are back from searching. Syndicate idiots, probably didn't even notice she was missing 'til it was on the news. We've got to keep looking. Will you meet me back here in the spaceport in an hour or two? I'll double your fee."`
			choice
				`	"Of course. We're going to find her."`
					goto next
				`	"I'm sorry, but I can't help any more."`
			action
				set "abandoned lost racer"
			`	"Fine," he says, "then take your money." He slams a credit chip for <payment> in your hand and storms off into the spaceport, on the verge of tears.`
			`	Much later, you receive a request to take him to Glory.`
				goto glory
			label next
			`	"You're a saint for this," he says, and hands you a credit chip for <payment>. "We have to find her.`
			`	"Meet me in the spaceport in a couple of hours. I want to look for clues."`
				decline
			label glory
			`	When you meet August Renard, he looks no better than when he left the <ship>. However, he does manage to speak. "Please take me to <planet>, captain. It's better to lead the search remotely from there than deal with these people in person."`
			choice
				`	"I guess."`
					accept
				`	"Sorry. You'll have to find another captain."`
					decline
	on complete
		log "Conducted a brief search but was unable to find anything of the famous racing pilot Artemis Renard. Returned her grieving father home to Glory."
		log "Minor People" "August and Artemis Renard" `August Renard contracted me to help look for his daughter Artemis, a racing pilot who went missing. Unable to find the woman, but returned her father home to Glory.`
		conversation
			`As the advanced medical facilities of <planet> rise up to greet the <ship>, August comes to meet you on the bridge. "Captain, I would like to thank you for attempting to find my daughter, even though the attempt ended poorly. Thank you for that, at least." He then prepares to exit the ship, outside of which a veritable army of attendants are waiting.`
			choice
				`	"Weren't you going to pay me?"`
					goto greedy
				`	(Leave him alone.)`
			`	August is escorted to a Shuttle which has just landed on the pad next to the <ship>, waves to you as he goes in, and launches to another part of the planet.`
				decline
			label greedy
			action
				payment 2000
			`	August turns. "What! After what you've done, crashed my hopes, you expect me to pay you! Why would you think that? Fine!" He throws a credit chip at you and exits the <ship> in a huff.`
			`	When you access the credit chip, you find it is only worth <payment>.`

mission "Lost Racer 2 - Continued"
	name "Search for Artemis Renard"
	description "Search the system of <system> for Artemis Renard, especially <planet>."
	source "Sunracer"
	waypoint "Acamar"
	destination "Sandswell"
	passengers 1
	deadline
	to offer
		has "Lost Racer 2 - Ended: declined"
		not "abandoned lost racer"
	on offer
		conversation
			`The displays in the spaceport hangar flicker with a news broadcast: sweeping aerial views of the spaceport alongside photos of Artemis Renard beside her red-and-white Flivver, wearing a calm, confident expression. Beneath the images, the screen reads "CORE CHAMPIONSHIP CATASTROPHE: MISSING MISS RENARD MYSTIFIES MILLIONS."`
			choice
				`	(Watch the news broadcast.)`
				`	(Wait for Mr. Renard to return.)`
					goto renard
			`	The voice of an eerily calm anchor plays over more vignettes of the race infrastructure. "... and, of course, today's top story: three-time Centurion-Division, Paradise Circuit racing champion Artemis Renard has been officially declared 'missing' after she did not return here to Sunracer after this year's Megaparsec Core Championship. The search effort has been ongoing for days now, led by Megaparsec with support from the Republic Navy and Syndicated Security. The head of the event, Quinn Emerson, put out the following statement:`
			`	"'We at Megaparsec put the greatest attention into ensuring the safety and well-being of all our event participants and guests. Over the past forty-eight hours, our search teams have fully scanned the Volax, Cardax, Moktar, Bellatrix, and Menkar systems, and we are working in conjunction with the Republic and Syndicate to fully scour their territories belonging to the circuit as well. Ms. Renard's family can rest assured that if she's out there, we'll find her.'`
			`	"'Artemis Renard, daughter of terraforming magnates August and Louisa Renard, is perhaps best known for shattering the record for the Betelgeuse Classic in last year's race, crossing the finish line nearly fifteen minutes faster than the record set by Jackson Lee over twenty years ago. She was last seen flying her ship, the Moonfox, a white and red Lionheart Flivver with race registration B-168, in the Diphda system. Anyone with information regarding her whereabouts is encouraged to contact Syndicate or Navy authorities, as well as the Megaparsec Racing Events Commission, and may be entitled to monetary reward if such information leads to the retrieval of Ms. Renard or her ship.'"`
			`	The broadcast then ends, going to an advertisement for the Megaparsec Splinter.`
			
			label renard
			`	Several minutes later, you see Mr. Renard returning from the terminal side of the spaceport, looking frustrated. "Idiots!" he shouts. "They couldn't find their legs in a dressing room! They tell me that they had 'some network and monitoring issues' and that they don't have surveillance for the entire last leg of the race. I told Artemis to never trust these Syndicate amateurs."`
			choice
				`	"I'm sure they're trying their best."`
				`	"'Network and monitoring issues' sounds suspicious."`
					goto suspicious
				`	"Do you have a plan for where to go next?"`
					goto plan
			`	"Well their best isn't very good, is it! They don't notice that their number-one pilot has been missing for days? I'll get the best lawyers in the Republic to drag Megaparsec through court 'till the only thing left they'll be able to sell is scrap!"`
			choice
				`	"What you said about 'network and monitoring issues' sounded suspicious."`
				`	"So what's the plan from here?"`
					goto plan
			label suspicious
			`	Mr. Renard suddenly speaks more quietly. "I thought so too. I think it might have been sabotage."`
			`	"What do you mean?" you ask.`
			`	"Every day that Artemis is lost, the odds on her plummet and the bets on her competitors skyrocket. I've spent enough time making money to know that there's no faster way to bruise a competitor than scandal. I think someone sabotaged the race and went after my daughter because they knew it would make headlines, and they knew they could cash in by betting on underdogs."`
			choice
				`	"Who do you think did it?"`
					goto perp
				`	"I'm not sure I'm convinced. Couldn't she just have crashed?"`
			`	Mr. Renard scoffs. "She's been named the best racing pilot in the Republic three times! She didn't just crash."`
			choice
				`	"Fair enough. So if this was sabotage, who do you think did it?"`
				`	"I didn't mean to cast doubt on her skill; I just meant that I'm not sure this has to be a conspiracy."`
					goto noconspiracy
			label perp
			`	"I'm not sure," Mr. Renard says, "Maybe the Syndicate, maybe Betelgeuse or Lionheart. Even an ambitious pirate. Each could benefit from betting on such a high-profile race."`
			choice
				`	"So what's your plan? How are we going to find her?"`
					goto plan
			label noconspiracy
			`	Mr. Renard sighs. "Maybe not. I just want her back, you know." He pulls out a photo of her, moving it slightly between his fingers so that it is evenly lit; it looks a couple of years younger than the one on the news broadcast. "They said she was last seen in Diphda. If she was going north, as she should have been, then we should keep looking in Acamar. It's an uninhabited system, and with surveillance down, whatever went wrong would have happened long before anyone else even entered the system."`
			choice
				`	"I'll set a course for Acamar."`
					goto acamar
				`	"I'm sorry that this happened, but I'm afraid I can't help."`
			`	"Then you're just like the rest of those fools!" Mr. Renard stomps off in a rage.`
				decline
			label plan
			`	"They said she was last seen in Diphda. If she was going north, as she should have been, they probably caught up to her in Acamar. It's an uninhabited system, and with surveillance down, whoever did it could have disabled her ship before any of the other racers entered the system.`
			choice
				`	"I'll set a course for Acamar."`
					goto acamar
				`	"I'm sorry that this happened, but I'm afraid I can't help."`
			`	"Then you're just like the rest of those fools!" Mr. Renard stomps off in a rage.`
				decline
			label acamar
			`	"Thank you, Captain. We need to get moving immediately."`
				launch
	on enter Acamar
		conversation
			`Upon entering the Acamar system, your sensors detect a faint radio signal coming from the third planet in the system, but you realize that the radio signal is a result of the electrical discharges from the planet's atmosphere produced by the many volcanoes on the surface. After calibrating your sensors to account for this, you are unable to detect any transponder signal matching Artemis' ship.`
			`	Mr. Renard paces around the bridge of the <ship>, prodding at consoles. "Are you sure you checked it? Is that the right frequency?"`
			choice
				`	"Is there anywhere else she could be?"`
					goto elsewhere
				`	"Please calm down."`
			`	"Calm! Calm? You expect me to be calm? If your daughter was missing would you be calm?"`
			choice
				`	"I'm sorry. Is there anywhere else she could be?"`
					goto elsewhere
				`	"I'm sure I wouldn't know."`
				`	(Ignore the question.)`
			`	August seems to suddenly calm down. "I suppose you wouldn't.`
			`	"Anyway, I'm not sure if she could even be anywhere else. The route went north from here, up through Elnath and Nihal and then through the uninhabited systems back to Mirfak. But we've checked every one of those systems and haven't seen a signal." He stops for a moment, sitting down and putting his head in his hands. "We should have found her!"`
				goto clearcrew
			label elsewhere
			`	"I'm not sure. The route went north from here, up through Elnath and Nihal and then through the uninhabited systems back to Mirfak. But we've checked every one of those systems! We should have seen a signal!" He stops for a moment, sitting down and putting his head in his hands. "We should have found her!"`
			label clearcrew
			`	You clear the rest of your crew off the bridge to give him some space.`
			`	"I suppose I should just give you your money and go home," he rasps.`
			choice
				`	"Perhaps that would be best."`
					goto abandon
				`	(Suggest a different system.)`
			action
				set "rescue artemis renard"
			`	"What about there," you say, pointing to the neighboring system. "Kugel. It's off the circuit, so no one will have searched there, but if her hyperdrive malfunctioned or was sabotaged, she might have ended up there. It's only a single jump away."`
			`	"Okay," he says, wiping his eyes with the corners of his sleeves. "Kugel it is, Captain."`
				accept
			
			label abandon
			`	"You're just like all the rest of those captains, don't care about their passengers, only seek to be paid." August Renard sighs. "But, I suppose that is to be expected. If nobody will help, giving up is the only option.`
			`	"At least take me back to Glory."`
			action
				set "lost racer august to glory"
				fail

	on enter Kugel
		dialog
			"As soon as you enter the Kugel system, your sensors begin to pick up a weak radio signal coming from the second planet, this time matching exactly the frequency of Artemis Renard's transponder. It seems you have arrived in the correct system."
	on visit
		dialog
			"Either not all of your passengers are in the system, or you need to fly through Acamar before landing here."

mission "Lost Racer 2 - Failed"
	entering
	name "Take August to <planet>"
	description "After your failed search for Artemis Renard, take her father, August, back to <destination>."
	source
		system "Acamar"
	destination "Glory"
	passengers 1
	to offer
		has "Lost Racer 2 - Continued: failed"
		has "lost racer august to glory"
	on complete
		clear "lost racer august to glory"
		conversation
			`As the advanced medical facilities of <planet> rise up to greet the <ship>, August comes to meet you on the bridge. "Captain, I would like to thank you for attempting to find my daughter, even though the attempt ended poorly. Thank you for that, at least." He then prepares to exit the ship, outside of which a veritable army of attendants are waiting.`
			choice
				`	"Weren't you going to pay me?"`
					goto greedy
				`	(Leave him alone.)`
			`	August is escorted to a Shuttle which has just landed on the pad next to the <ship>, waves to you as he goes in, and launches to another part of the planet.`
				decline
			label greedy
			action
				payment 2000
			`	August turns. "What! After what you've done, crashed my hopes, you expect me to pay you? Why would you think that? Fine!" He throws a credit chip at you and exits the <ship> in a huff.`
			`	When you access the credit chip, you find it is only worth <payment>.`

mission "Lost Racer 3"
	landing
	name "Return Artemis Renard"
	description "You have found Artemis Renard. Transport her and her father back to <destination>."
	source "Sandswell"
	destination "Glory"
	passengers 2
	to offer
		has "Lost Racer 2 - Continued: done"
	on offer
		conversation
			`Upon reaching the planet, you pinpoint the radio signal to a valley in the southern hemisphere. You descend through a raging sandstorm; you have to rely entirely on instruments as the view from the <ship>'s bridge is almost entirely obscured. Soon, your scanners report that the source of the signal is less than a kilometer out, and after a few moments more, you begin to discern the vague shape of a crashed Flivver through the haze of dust. You land the <ship> next to the wreck, and both you and Mr. Renard go to exit the ship.`
			`	Visibility is even worse on foot, and while August shouts over the howling wind, you cannot tell what he is saying. As you clear the front part of your own ship, you see the crashed ship before you.`
			scene "scene/flivver crash"
			`	Mr. Renard shouts with what you believe to be joy at seeing the parachute and scattered flares. The two of you wade through the sand and increasingly dense scattered debris as quickly as you can until you arrive at the rear hatch of the crashed Flivver. You struggle to turn the lock but eventually force it open, briefly letting the sand-filled air rush into the interior of the ship before you close it behind you. Inside, the ship is dark and depowered but more or less intact. At the front of the craft, sitting in the half-submerged cockpit, is the woman you saw on the broadcast, wiping the sand from her face.`
			`	"Hmph," she says, somewhat weakly. "I thought you were going to be the Navy."`
			`	Mr. Renard rushes to her and the two embrace.`
			`	"And who's this?" Artemis asks.`
			choice
				`	"Captain <first> <last> of the <ship>."`
				`	"I'm here to get you out of here."`
					goto notime
			label introduce
			`	"A pilot, eh? I can appreciate that. I'd appreciate it more if you could fly me out of here, though."`
			choice
				`	"My ship is landed outside. Follow me."`
					goto ship
				`	"I have some questions."`
			`	Artemis coughs. "Later, okay?"`
				goto ship
			label notime
			`	"A real professional, eh? I can appreciate that. I think I'm about ready to get to it, then, if that's all right with you."`
			choice
				`	"My ship is landed outside. Follow me."`
					goto ship
				`	"I have some questions."`
			`	Artemis coughs. "Later, okay?"`
			label ship
			`	The three of you exit the crashed Flivver and make the journey back to the <ship>. Artemis stumbles several times but the two of you steady her and eventually make it to your ship's airlock. You wipe the sand from your face and fetch your ship's first aid equipment, but to your surprise upon returning, Artemis seems remarkably uninjured despite the crash.`
			`	"Oh, shove off, Captain. I'm fine. Automated drogue system in the ship, safety first, spare no expense. Wouldn't mind a visit to your galley, though."`
			choice
				`	"Of course."`
					goto galley
				`	"Drogue system? Like parachutes? I hadn't considered that."`
			`	"Really? What is it with you spacers and 'going down with the ship' anyway?"`
			label galley
			`	You don't think you've ever seen someone devour a sleeve of freeze-dried peas as quickly or with as much verve as Artemis does. After eating her way through the <ship>'s entire stock of several other varieties of packaged food, she eventually slows down, though the hungry look on her face remains. Her father sits beside her, holding her hand tightly.`
			`	"I suppose you have some questions," she says, "both of you. Well, I hope you do, at least."`
			choice
				`	"Why did you crash?"`
				`	"That was a beautiful ship you had there. I've never seen a Flivver quite like that."`
					goto beautiful
				`	"I'll leave the questions to your father."`
					goto noquestions
			label crash
			`	"I really do not know. We checked everything before launch, everything, and yet during the jump the Moonfox's hyperdrive malfunctioned, knocking me out. When I woke up, I was in the wrong system and the Flivver was hurtling away from the star. Luckily, the engines hadn't been harmed too much, so I was able to turn around and thrust in the direction of <origin>, but then the batteries gave out and the generator stopped working. So I ended up stranded on a planet with no way of calling for help - the flares had triggered when I crashed, being unable to slow down without thrusters. Well, now you know. Is there anything else?"`
			`	August asks, "Do you think someone could have sabotaged the hyperdrive? Any suspicious Syndicate employees hanging around? Any anything out of the ordinary?"`
			`	"Not that I remember," replies Artemis. "This rarely happens in spaceship racing, but it's still happened. A one-in-a-million chance, perhaps. I wouldn't worry about it too much."`
			choice
				`	"That was a beautiful ship you had there. I've never seen a Flivver quite like that."`
				`	"Alright."`
					goto noquestions
			label beautiful
			`	"You have good taste, Captain. It's modified for racing: lighter hull plating, no weapon mounts, ample engines, of course. We've got a dozen for all the different races, but that one was a personal favorite."`
			choice
				`	"Why did you crash?`
					goto crash
				`	"I have no more questions."`
			label noquestions
			`	Artemis nods. "Well, could we head back to <planet> now? It'll be nice to get home after all this commotion and uncomfortableness."`
			`	Artemis and her father head off to their bunks, talking all the way. You chart a course for <destination>.`
				accept
	on complete
		payment 150000
		event "artemis renard recovered" 60
		log "Helped a Paradisian find his missing daughter, a racing pilot who crashed on Sandswell."
		log "Minor People" "August and Artemis Renard" `Helped August find his daughter Artemis Renard, a racing pilot who crashed on the uninhabited planet of Sandswell after her hyperdrive malfunctioned.`
		conversation
			`As the advanced medical facilities of <planet> rush up and past the ship, August comes to the bridge. "Truly, thank you, Captain, for sticking through this mess with me, and for continuing to search even when hope was gone.`
			`	"I would like to reward you with a payment of <payment> for your services, and apologize for the inconvenience this might have caused you."`
			`	Soon afterwards, the Renards head out of the <ship>. The moment they exit the hatch, a veritable army of attendants appears out of nowhere, ready to help them move the five feet to a Shuttle that has just landed on a pad next to you. August waves, and steps in.`

event "artemis renard recovered"

mission "Lost Racer Epilogue"
	landing
	name "Visit Artemis Renard"
	description `Retrieve some "surplus equipment" from Artemis Renard on <destination>.`
	source
		near Sol 1 100
	destination "Glory"
	to offer
		has "event: artemis renard recovered"
	on offer
		conversation
			`While you are checking your incoming messages, you notice one from Artemis Renard, the crashed racing pilot who you rescued a couple months ago.`
			`	"Captain <last>,`
			`	"I'd like to thank you again for your timely rescue. Recovering from the ordeal has been a long process, of course, but a worthwhile one. As I've been working my way back into the various circuits, we've built up a surplus of increasingly outdated equipment. While we could, of course, simply have it scrapped locally, we were hoping that you might join us on <destination> to see if you can put it to better use."`
			`		Sincerely,`
			`			Artemis Renard`
				accept
	on complete
		log "Was given a Racing Flivver as additional compensation for helping find Artemis Renard."
		conversation
			`As Glory again rises to greet your ship, you receive a hail from a spacecraft that comes up alongside your ship. "Ho, Captain! Why don't you come to our estate, instead of the main landing port? It'll be easier." August Renard is leaning out the cockpit of a fancy Racing Flivver, looking much happier than when you first met him.`
			`	You redirect your ship in the direction the Flivver is going, noticing that it has the same name as Artemis' ship which crashed on Sandswell.`
			`	Soon, the dense main city of <planet> gives way to a perfectly-terraformed countryside with only one mar - a gigantic personal skyscraper that must be hundreds of meters high. A few landing pads are set in a neat array next to it, and the B-168 "Moonfox" lands on one of these, beckoning for you to land on another.`
			choice
				`	(Land on one of the pads.)`
					goto continue
				`	"What about my fleet?"`
					to display
						"total ships" > 1
					goto continue
				`	"You have a mansion here!"`
			`	"Later, later," Artemis shouts. "We'll talk in a place where we needn't yell."`
			label continue
			`	August calls, "You can let your fleet stay at the main spaceport; I'm afraid there's not room here."`
				to display
					"total ships" > 1
			`	As you exit the <ship>, you notice that the Flivver has been painted in the same colors as your ship.`
			`	August approaches. "Artemis wanted to give you something as a present for saving her life, and we were wondering if you would like to have this Flivver. We've managed to refurbish it enough that it should be perfectly functional, and if you want a fast ship there's nothing in the sky that can beat you."`
			`	August leads you up the steps into the palatial mansion and into a large whitewashed room with a golden table. On the table lie keys for the starship Artemis used in her most recent race.`
			action
				give ship "Racing Flivver" `B-168 "Moonfox"`
			`	"Well, I hope you like it." Artemis approaches. "It's been servicing me for quite a while, ever since I started racing. Unfortunately it's not fast enough anymore, even after the millions we spent on rebuilding it after the crash on Sandswell. Hopefully you'll be able to put it to better use." She smiles. "Of course, it would also be a good ship to sell, if you need the money."`
			`	After spending another half an hour or so catching up, you say your goodbyes to the pair and head back to the main spaceport.`

ship "Racing Flivver"
	sprite "ship/racing flivver"
	thumbnail "thumbnail/racing flivver"
	attributes
		category "Transport"
		# This Flivver has a high cost so that you can sell it for roughly the same amount as a normal Flivver would cost.
		"cost" 4900000
		"shields" 1100
		"hull" 150
		"required crew" 1
		"bunks" 2
		"mass" 32
		"drag" 1.0
		"heat dissipation" .9
		"fuel capacity" 600
		"cargo space" 0
		"outfit space" 160
		"weapon capacity" 22
		"engine capacity" 60
		weapon
			"blast radius" 16
			"shield damage" 160
			"hull damage" 80
			"hit force" 240
	outfits
		"Ramscoop"
		"Water Coolant System"
		"Hyperdrive"

		"Dwarf Core"
		"Supercapacitor"
		
		"A125 Atomic Steering"
		"A250 Atomic Thruster"
		"AR120 Reverse Thruster"
		"Volcano Afterburner"
		
	engine -16.5 26
	engine 16.5 26
	"reverse engine" -16.5 -11 0.8
	"reverse engine" 16.5 -11 0.8
	"steering engine" -16.5 26 0.8
		"right"
	"steering engine" 16.5 26 0.8
		"left"
	"steering engine" -16.5 -11 0.8
		"angle" 180
		"left"
	"steering engine" 16.5 -11 0.8
		"angle" 180
		"right"
	leak "leak" 60 50
	explode "tiny explosion" 10
	explode "small explosion" 10
	description "One of champion racer Artemis Renard's many beloved racing crafts, this Lionheart Flivver has been so heavily modified you're not sure if it can even be considered one. Its sleek, elegant lines belie its underlying power: the oversized engines hum with energy and roar to life with spine-bending force at the gentlest touch of the controls, propelling the craft and its pilot to the stars like butterflies on a moonbeam."
	description "	A gift to you for saving Artemis' life after it was pulled from the sand where she crashed post-race, the Renard family has spared no expense in restoring the craft to gleaming perfection."



mission "Moving House 1"
	minor
	name "Moving House"
	description "An anarchist named Kris has asked you to help move them and <cargo> from <planet stopovers> to <destination>. Payment is <payment>."
	source
		government "Republic" "Syndicate"
		attributes "near earth" "paradise" "core"
	destination "Lichen"
	stopover
		distance 3 7
		government "Syndicate"
	to offer
		not "event: war begins"
		random < 35
	passengers 1
	cargo "personal belongings" 5
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you walk through the spaceport, you see someone ahead making very obvious disruptions in the flow of the crowd. They're going up to various people and talking to them, usually very briefly, before moving on to someone else. Before you know it, "someone else" is you.`
			`	"You, you're a captain. Will you give me a ride? I need to get back to <stopovers>, pack up my things, and travel to <destination>." Their hair is slicked back to match their sharp suit.`
			choice
				`	"Sure, as long as you can pay."`
					goto sure
				`	"No, I've got better things to do."`
			`	Just like with the others, as soon as you decline, they move on to someone else.`
				decline
				
			label sure
			`	They stop in surprise, then nod briefly. "I'll be at your ship within an hour."`
			`	An hour later, you see them approach the <ship> carrying a small suitcase. They've exchanged their formal appearance for a button-down shirt and skirt with their hair loose, hanging down to their shoulders. They walk right up to you and stick out a hand. "Kris Brecht, they/them."`
			choice
				`	(Shake their hand.)`
					goto shake
				`	(Just stare.)`
			`	You stare at Kris' unorthodox getup while they stand there with their hand out for a few beats. Then they sigh and take it back. "Will this be a problem?" They gesture to themselves.`
			choice
				`	"No, I was just surprised."`
					goto surprised
				`	"I don't think I can carry someone like you."`
			`	Their expression turns cold. "Right. I get it. Someone like me." They turn and stalk away.`
				decline
			
			label surprised
			`	Their confident demeanor returns, and they nod. "I can have that effect on people. Glad to see you're not another of those stuck-up establishment types. Well, all the rest of my stuff is on <stopovers>, so we'd better get going!"`
				goto establishment
			
			label shake
			`	You shake their hand. "<first> <last>. That's all you've got with you?"`
			`	Kris nods. "All the rest of my stuff is on <stopovers>. I was just here for a meeting with some others who feel like I do about the establishment."`

			label establishment
			choice
				`	"The... establishment?"`
				`	(Just let it pass.)`
					goto pass
			`	Kris nods again. "Yeah, y'know, The Man!`
			label pass
			`	"I don't support government or any of its tools, and I've heard that the South is more open to this kind of philosophy and lifestyle."`
			`	Before you can say more, they walk past you onto the <ship>. "Which did you say my berth was again...?"`
				accept
			
	on stopover
		conversation
			`As you traveled to <planet stopovers>, you found yourself frequently listening to Kris' opinions on the subject of governments. While they had some very good points, other times they would spend hours ranting about things that seem completely impractical and without a solid foundation. If it weren't for the fact that they were unfailingly polite otherwise, and eager to help with chores around the ship, you would've declared the cockpit off-limits.`
			`	Still, you are somewhat relieved that when you arrive, both of you are too out of breath from moving furniture to talk more.`
			`	You soon have it loaded up, though, and start the trip south to <destination>.`
	on complete
		payment
		payment 5000
		log "Minor People" "Kris Brecht" `An anarchist committed enough to their ideals to move to the South in hopes of finding a less statist community.`
		conversation
			`At last, you reach <planet>, and Kris enthusiastically unloads their possessions into a waiting transport van. Before they disappear, they press a credit chip for <payment> into your hands and assure you that you are a valuable ally to the "anti-statist movement."`

mission "Moving House Timer"
	invisible
	landing
	to offer
		has "Moving House 1: done"
		has "event: Thule becomes independent"
		has "fw first chapter done"
	on offer
		event "kris gets frustrated" 5 35
		fail
		
event "kris gets frustrated"

mission "Moving House 2"
	minor
	name "Moving House, Again"
	description "Kris is unsatisfied with life on <destination> and wants your help to move."
	landing
	source
		near "Atria" 1 100
	destination "Lichen"
	to offer
		has "event: kris gets frustrated"
	on offer
		conversation
			`When you check your messages upon landing, you notice one from an unfamiliar source. At first, you think it's a scam, because it tries to redirect you through three different servers, but then you see it calls you "ally of the anti-statist movement."`
			`	Sure enough, it's from Kris Brecht, the anarchist you transported to <planet>. "You have to come and get me. I can't stand living here any longer!" It includes directions to a home somewhere on <planet> where you last saw Kris, but nothing more.`
			choice
				`	(Accept.)`
					accept
				`	(Decline.)`
					decline
	on complete
		conversation
			`You arrive on <planet>, rent a local transport, and make your way to the location specified. When you knock on the door, Kris bursts out almost instantly. This time, they've got on a ruffly skirt, a button-down shirt, and suspenders, and their hair is in a tight bun. "Finally!" they say. "Everything's packed already; we just need to load it in and get to the spaceport."`
			`	It takes much less time to load everything this time than the last time you helped Kris move, and soon they hop in the driver's seat of the van, calling to you, "I'll meet you at the spaceport in an hour or two!"`

mission "Moving House 3"
	name "Moving House, Again"
	description "Kris is unsatisfied on <origin> and wants your help to move to <destination> instead. Payment is <payment>."
	source "Lichen"
	destination "Thule"
	passengers 1
	cargo "personal belongings" 4
	to offer
		has "Moving House 2: done"
	on offer
		conversation
			`Kris' possessions fit more easily into your hold this time - it seems like they really do have less than before. Once they're loaded in and Kris climbs aboard, they open their mouth to begin what is sure to be another of their interminable tirades on the power of the state.`
			choice
				`	(Try to change the subject.)`
					goto weather
				`	(Let them talk.)`
			`	Surprisingly, Kris begins by talking about how uncomfortable the ever-damp weather on <origin> is, and how they'll be glad to be properly dry for the first time in weeks. This doesn't last, though, as soon talk of the planet brings up the other people there.`
				goto fire
			
			label weather
			`	You ask, "So, what is it about <origin> you can't stand? Is it the damp weather?"`
			
			label fire
			`	A fire kindles in Kris' eyes, and a righteous fury seems to possess them. "I thought when I came here that I'd be among like-minded souls. There's barely any government to speak of here! But then when the war started, they were aaaaall sooooo delighted with the so-called Free Worlds! 'Free!' They're just another state!"`
			`	Kris continues in this vein as you complete your pre-flight checks. Fortunately, they do at least mention your destination is <destination> during their rant.`
				accept
	on complete
		payment
		payment 5000
		conversation
			`You arrive at Thule, and Kris once more eagerly unloads their belongings into a local transport. As with the previous journey, they were a strange combination of genuinely polite and helpful and deeply aggravating.`
			`	Now, though, they stand on the tarmac and take in great lungfuls of air, proclaiming it "the air of true freedom." You're somewhat more skeptical of how the locals will treat them, being an outsider, but... well, maybe they'll actually get along.`
			`	Kris skips back up the ramp to hand you a credit chip for <payment> before taking their transport and heading off to whatever is awaiting them out there on <planet>.`

mission "Stranded In Paradise 1"
	minor
	name "Transport Burnbecks to <planet>"
	description "The Burnbeck family was stranded by the bombings, and needs <bunks> free for transport back home to <destination>. Payment is <payment>."
	source
		attributes "paradise"
	destination
		attributes "rim" "south"
		not government "Pirate"
		not system "Alniyat" "Atria" "Lesath" "Han"
		not planet "Glaze" "Zug" "Bourne"
	passengers 4
	to offer
		has "event: war begins"
		not "chosen sides"
		random < 30
	on offer
		conversation
			`No sooner have you entered the spaceport than you are bowled over by a trio of adults, two women and a man, with a teenager trailing close behind them.`
			`	"Oh - sorry!" the older of the two women exclaims. She puts out a hand to help you up, then gets a better look at you as you take it, stand, and dust yourself off. "Wait; are you a ship captain?" she says after a moment.`
			`	"<first> <last>, captain of the <ship>," you reply. "Why?"`
			`	"Oh! You may be the answer to our prayers, dearie!" She and the others have now gotten themselves a bit more organized, and you can tell that they must be a family. Confirming this, the woman says, "I'm Shirley Burnbeck, and this is my husband Darren. These are our children, Erin and Leigh." The other, younger woman, Erin, greets you with a smile, while the teen, Leigh, glances at you before turning their gaze towards the ground. "We were on vacation here on <origin> when news of the secession and those awful bombings came out. Well, I don't need to tell you, it's caused us some trouble! Or, well, maybe I do, because we're from <destination>, down in what they're now calling the Free Worlds!"`
			`	Her husband cuts in, "Anyway, the short of it is that we really need to get home, and right now, none of the regular services are running from here to <planet> because of the likelihood of war. Could you possibly take the four of us back home? We... can't pay a lot, right now, but we can pay."`
			choice
				`	"Of course. I wouldn't leave people stranded like this."`
					goto help
				`	"Sorry, I'm not headed that way. Best of luck."`
			`	Four faces fall in front of you, and after a moment, they gather up their luggage again and start heading out the doors they crashed into you in. Shirley nods sadly as she goes, and says, "Well, I guess we understand. We'll find a way home somehow..."`
				decline
		
			label help
			`	Four faces light up in front of you, and after a moment, they gather up their luggage again, and stand expectantly. "Well, where should we go?"`
			`	You direct them to the berth where your ship is currently being refueled, and they all bustle off, seeming much more hopeful and relieved.`
				accept
	on complete
		payment
		payment 5000
		log "Minor People" "The Burnbecks" `Shirley, Darren, Leigh, and Erin Burnbeck were vacationing in the Paradise Worlds when Geminus and Martini were bombed, stranding them. You helped them get back home.`
		conversation
			`The trip south with the Burnbecks was mostly quite pleasant, but while they stop short of openly blaming them for the bombings on Geminus and Martini, they are very angry at the Free Worlds for seceding from the Republic. "We were perfectly happy belonging to the Republic," Darren said one evening in the mess. "I mean, seriously, did those people way down in, where is it, Zug? Bourne? Did they even think about the regular people and how this would affect them? Affect us?"`
			`	While some of their complaints seem a bit selfish, it's hard to argue with the fact that this has disrupted a lot of lives. After touching down on <planet>, Darren, Leigh, and Erin joyfully run into the arms of their friends and family here. Shirley hangs back to hand you a credit chip for <payment> and thank you warmly (and at some length) for your help in getting home, before heading out to join her family in their reunion.`

mission "Stranded In Paradise 2"
	minor
	source
		attributes "rim" "south"
		not government "Pirate"
	to offer
		has "Stranded In Paradise 1: done"
		has "FW Embassy 1B: done"
	on offer
		conversation
			`While walking through the spaceport, you are surprised to see Shirley and Darren Burnbeck, along with a young man, who you recognize as Leigh after a few seconds. They greet you warmly, reassure you that Erin is just off to university on Zug and so couldn't join them on this vacation, and invite you to have dinner with them at the spaceport cafe.`
			choice
				`	(Accept.)`
					goto cafe
				`	(Decline.)`
			`	You apologize, and they reassure you it's fine and thank you once again.`
				decline
			
			label cafe
			`	You join them, and they listen raptly to your stories of participating in the Free Worlds' campaign to remain independent from the Republic. When you talk about transporting the Earth ambassadors to Bourne, Darren shakes his head in something like admiration.`
			`	"You know," he says, "I was never quite sure that the Free Worlds hadn't really been behind those awful bombings, but now, it looks like I was wrong. In fact, I think I might have been wrong about a lot of things about the Free Worlds Council and Senate, back then. It's still true that they've upended our lives, but from what I've seen of their actions since, especially with the pirates, they really do seem to have the best interests of the people here in the South at heart."`
			`	After a round of compliments and words of solidarity from the other members of the family, you finish up your dinners and bid them goodbye.`
				decline

mission "Southern Fiance 1"
	minor
	name "Fiance to <planet>"
	description "Tom, formerly a marketer for the Syndicate, is going to live with his fiance on <destination>. Payment is <payment>."
	source
		government "Syndicate"
		attributes "core"
		attributes "urban"
	destination "Cornucopia"
	to offer
		has "event: war begins"
		not "chosen sides"
		random < 30
	passengers 1
	on offer
		conversation
			`Walking through the spaceport, you see a man in a very neat suit standing by the side of the concourse holding a sign reading "Transport To <planet>" in beautiful lettering.`
			choice
				`	(Walk towards him.)`
				`	(Ignore him.)`
					decline
			`	He turns a very professional smile on you and introduces himself. "My name is Tom Ardwright. My fiance is the Agriculture Minister on <destination>, down in the Free Worlds. We had planned to get married up here in a few months, but, well..." He gestures around at the general situation. "So I'm heading down to <planet> instead. Can you help?"`
			choice
				`	"You're in luck; I'm the captain of the <ship>."`
					goto take
				`	"I can't help."`
			`	Tom sighs and nods. "Thanks for hearing me out. Best of luck, wherever you end up."`
				decline
			
			label take
			`	Tom's whole posture relaxes as his professional grin becomes a genuine smile. "Wow. This really means so much to me. You said it was the <ship>? I'll be on board in an hour."`
				accept
	on complete
		payment
		payment 10000
		log "Minor People" "Tom and Carl" `Tom Ardwright was a marketer for the Syndicate, but moved south to live with his fiance Carl Chamberlain after war broke out.`
		event "tom and carl's wedding" 60
		conversation
			`During the trip to <destination>, you had several conversations with Tom on a wide range of topics, including his fiance, Carl, as well as his job as a marketer and designer for a division of Syndicated Systems - at least until he quit. "It'll be a shame to see my work for the Syndicate be replaced, but I don't regret leaving. Carl's got big plans in store for <planet>, now that we aren't stuck with the Republic's shoestring budget, and I wouldn't miss them for the galaxy."`
			`	You stand at the foot of the ramp accepting Tom's fare of <payment> and bidding him farewell as Carl runs across the tarmac toward you. You step back as they practically leap into each other's arms, reuniting in spite of these tumultuous times.`

event "tom and carl's wedding"

mission "Southern Fiance 2"
	minor
	landing
	source
		near "Kappa Centauri" 1 100
	to offer
		has "event: tom and carl's wedding"
	on offer
		conversation
			`After landing, you receive a message from Tom and Carl. Attached are photos of their wedding on Cornucopia, as well as a letter:`
			``
			`Dear <first> <last>,`
			`	We are delighted to announce that despite the many hardships around us in these times, the two of us were married three days ago at the Hart's Hill Vineyard on Cornucopia. This would not have been possible without you, and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Please enjoy these photos from the wedding.`
			`				Tom & Carl Ardwright-Chamberlain`
			``
			`	You recognize Tom's style in the design of the photo set, which includes a photo of them on the tarmac at the Cornucopia spaceport where they were reunited after the uncertainty of the war parted them.`
				decline


mission "FW Refugees to Humanika"
	name "Refugee family to <planet>"
	description "Transport a family of <bunks> refugees and <cargo> to <destination>. Payment is <payment>."
	minor
	source
		attributes "dirt belt" "rim" "south"
		not government Quarg
		not near Tarazed 1
	destination Humanika
	to offer
		has "event: war begins"
		not "chosen sides"
		random < 15
	to fail
		has "chosen sides"
	passengers 3
	cargo "household goods" 2
	on offer
		conversation
			`A young family of three is walking around the spaceport talking to merchant captains. From the looks of it, they're not having much luck.`
			choice
				`	(Approach them.)`
				`	(Ignore them.)`
					defer
			`	The parents introduce themselves as Penny Little and Rosa Perkins. Their young child is named Eduardo. Penny asks, "Any chance you're willing to take us and <tons> of our belongings to <destination>? We're concerned that the war between the Republic and the Free Worlds are going to get dangerous, so we want to raise Eduardo on a Quarg planet instead. We can pay <payment>."`
			label "main choice"
			choice
				`	"Why were those other captains refusing to take you?"`
					to display
						not "FW Refugees to Humanika: other captains"
					goto "other captains"
				`	"What do you mean, 'Quarg planet'?"`
					to display
						not "FW Refugees to Humanika: quarg"
						not "First Contact: Quarg: offered"
					goto quarg
				`	"The Quarg let humans live on one of their planets?"`
					to display
						not "FW Refugees to Humanika: quarg"
						has "First Contact: Quarg: offered"
						not "visited planet: Humanika"
					goto quarg
				`	"Sure, I can take you."`
					accept
				`	"Sorry, I'm not headed that way."`
					decline
			label "other captains"
			action
				set "FW Refugees to Humanika: other captains"
			`	"I think many of them are a bit distrustful of the Quarg. Plus, people are just generally more on edge these days with the tensions between the Free Worlds and the Republic, so they're less interested in flying somewhere unfamiliar. While I do understand those feelings, it seems to me that humans have done much worse to each other than the Quarg have ever done to us."`
				goto "main choice"
			label "quarg"
			action
				set "FW Refugees to Humanika: quarg"
			`	She looks a bit surprised that you don't already know. "The Quarg are an advanced alien species that live in a corner of human space, near Tarazed. I honestly don't know that much else about them, but I've heard that they prefer to stay out of human matters. You could try talking to them if you want to know more.`
				to display
					not "First Contact: Quarg: offered"
			`	"There's a planet they control that has too much gravity for them, but is just right for humans, so they let humans settle there under their protection. Or at least that's what I've heard."`
				goto "main choice"
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo and passenger on visit"
	on complete
		payment
		payment 20000
		dialog "Penny and Rosa thank you for getting them safely to <destination>, handing you <payment> for your troubles. You wish them and Eduardo the best of luck starting their new life away from a potential war in human space."
		log "Minor People" "Penny Little, Rosa Perkins, and Eduardo" `A young family who wanted to escape a potential war in human space. Took them to the planet Humanika, where the Quarg let humans settle.`

mission "Derelict Treasure Map: Ion Cannons"
	landing
	name "Derelict Treasure Map"
	description "Follow the treasure map you found in a derelict ship to <destination>."
	destination "New Argentina"
	to offer
		has "derelict treasure map: ion cannons"
	on offer
		conversation
			`Upon landing on <origin> you take out the treasure map you recovered from the derelict ship. The map gives detailed instructions about where the treasure was buried on the sparsely populated world of <destination>. However, the map's creator claims to have obtained some kind of alien weapons that disrupts a ship's electrical systems. The outlandish claim seems to bring doubt to the validity of the map.`
			choice
				`	(Follow the map.)`
					accept
				`	(Throw the map away, it's probably fake.)`
					decline
	on complete
		payment 386000
		outfit "Ion Cannon" 2
		conversation
			`Flying low over <planet> you follow the instructions to an isolated valley where you promptly land and get to digging. After hours of shoveling the hard soil you're met with a thunk as you strike metal.`
			branch hai
				has "First Contact: Hai: offered"
			`	Opening the cache reveals a large store of credits along with the alien weapons the map's owner wrote about. You marvel at their strange design and wonder at their power.`
			choice
				`	(Loot the treasure.)`
					goto end
			label hai
			`	Opening the cache reveals a large store of credits along with two Hai Ion Cannons. These must be the alien weapons the map's owner wrote about.`
			choice
				`	(Loot the treasure.)`
			label end
			`	You grab the <payment> credits, and with the assistance of some machinery you bring the weapons back to your ship.`

mission "Derelict Family Investment 1"
	landing
	name "Lost Family Investment"
	description "Return the credits you found in a derelict ship to the family it belongs to by traveling to <destination>."
	destination "Sundive"
	to offer
		has "derelict family investment"
	"apparent payment" 325000
	on offer
		conversation
			`Upon landing on <origin> you take out the text log you recovered alongside the case of <payment> from the derelict ship. The log reveals the credits were the result of a risky investment in an attempt to buy a better life for the captain of the ship, Colin Sawyer, and his family. You assume that the captain never made it home, and looking further into the personal log you find that the family used to reside on <destination>.`
			`	Perhaps the family still lives there.`
			choice
				`	(Attempt to return the credits.)`
					accept
				`	(Keep the credits to myself.)`
			action
				payment 325000
			`	You decide to keep the money. After all, it's not every day that you find a score worth <payment>.`
				decline

mission "Derelict Family Investment 2"
	landing
	name "Lost Family Investment"
	description "Return the credits you found in a derelict ship to the family it belongs to by traveling to <destination>."
	destination "Foundry"
	to offer
		has "Derelict Family Investment 1: done"
	on offer
		conversation
			`Upon landing on <origin> you take a transport out to the small farm indicated in the log as the home of Captain Sawyer's family. After knocking on the door of the farmhouse a man opens the door and asks, "Can I help you?"`
			choice
				`	"Do you know a Colin Sawyer?"`
				`	"Do the Sawyers live here?"`
			`	"Sawyer? Yeah, that's the family that sold me this here farm. If you're looking for them I believe they moved to a more populated planet, own some big corporation now." The man gives you the Sawyers' new place of residence on <destination> and bids you farewell.`
				accept
			
	on complete
		payment 500000
		conversation
			`It doesn't take long to find the Sawyers' home on <planet>. The building makes it clear that the family has done well for themselves. After a quick explanation to the desk clerk that you have something important to give, you take an elevator ride to the penthouse. You ring the buzzer and are greeted by a woman in her late fifties. "A delivery?" she asks.`
			choice
				`	"Do you know a Colin Sawyer?"`
			`	A scowl appears on her face as she spits out a response. "What do you know of my Da? That deadbeat left me and my family with next to nothing."`
			choice
				`	"I don't know what happened to him personally, but I found this case of credits and a log explaining how he was trying to invest in a better life for his family."`
				`	"I believe he died before he was able to bring back his business investment to your family. Here's his personal log, it explains everything."`
			`	She takes the log from you and quickly scrolls through it, emotion washing over her features as she reads. Eventually she looks up, and with all the anger towards her father gone, she speaks. "Thank you for this. All these years I had believed he had just taken our money and run off. But knowing he had been trying to help is worth more than all the credits in the galaxy. Take them and then some as a reward for bringing me this last piece of him."`
			`	You leave the building with a total of <payment> credits from both the case and Ms. Sawyer.`


mission "Returning to Paradise"
	name "Transport family home to <planet>"
	description `A family worried about the potential destruction within the Free Worlds wants to cut their vacation short and go home to <destination>. They promise to "pay you very well."`
	source
		government "Free Worlds"
		attributes "tourism"
	destination "Mainsail"
	passengers 4
	cargo "personal belongings" 1
	to offer
		random < 30
		not "chosen sides"
		has "assisted free worlds"
	on offer
		conversation
			`After looking around <origin>'s spaceport, you head back to your ship to find a middle-aged couple and two grade-school girls (probably their daughters, you reason) waiting for you at your landing pad. While the man tries to resolve an argument between the two girls, the lady notices you immediately and begins to approach you.`
			`	"Thank goodness you're here," she says. "We've been going from ship to ship looking for transport back home to <destination>. This war has caught us right in the middle of our vacation and we can't risk being anywhere near here when the Navy attacks, especially with our little angels," she gestures toward her daughters, now in a full-blown fight.`
			`	She looks back at you pleadingly. "If you can find the time to take us to <planet>, we will pay you very well."`
			choice
				`	"Sure, I'll take you."`
				`	"Okay, but that's pretty far. This better be worth it."`
				`	"No, I don't think so. Sorry."`
					decline

			`	"Then it's a deal," she says as she gives you a firm handshake. The whole family gets onto the <ship> without a word, leaving you to load their many bags and cases.`
				accept

	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo and passenger on visit"

	on complete
		conversation
			branch luxury
				has "outfit: Luxury Accommodations"

			action
				payment 66999
			`You're not sure if you've ever met a more pretentious and entitled family. The girls fought non-stop, and every family member complained constantly about the lack of luxury accommodations on your ship. Once you land on <planet>, the lady gives you <payment> and the family leaves without a word of thanks; they never even tell you their names. Considering what they put you through they should have paid you more, but nonetheless you're happy to be rid of them.`
				decline

			label luxury
			action
				payment 120000
			`You're not sure if you've ever met a more pretentious and entitled family. The girls fought non-stop, but fortunately, the family was satisfied with the luxury accommodations on your ship. Once you land on <planet>, the lady gives you <payment> and the family leave without a word of thanks; they never even tell you their names. Nonetheless, you're happy to be rid of them.`



mission "Hogshead's Dilemma"
	minor
	invisible
	source
		near Sol 1 10
	to offer
		random < 5
	on offer
		conversation
			`While passing through the spaceport, you notice a few energetic pilots gathered around a computer terminal, invested in some sort of conversation. One of the pilots speaks louder than the rest, sometimes getting looks from others in the spaceport. "You've fooled me before, and I reckoned you were this time! And here I thought them dang things were old news!" The pilot lets out a hearty chuckle. "Even nowadays them Firkins are still getting names!" After another minute or two, the group walks away from the terminal and out of your sight.`
			choice
				`	(Go see what this is about.)`
				`	(Ignore it.)`
					decline
			scene "thumbnail/hogshead"
			`	You walk up to the computer terminal, and on it is displayed a news article with a title that reads "Popular Votes For Ship Name Poll - Unexpected Results." The article is about a small transport company hearkening back to older times with a special transport voyage centered around a Hogshead space liner. You recall that, back in their day, Hogsheads were sort of a business fad because of endless discussion and nicknames based on the shape of their engine pods. Nowadays, the ship has all but lost the charm it once had, but it seems a good number of pilots are interested in this ordeal.`
			`	For the event, the transport company decided to have a public poll to name the ship, and while initial suggestions were casual names such as "Stark Lady" or "Timelight", some of the most popular ones are actually a collection of joke names - ones you would imagine a toddler would have come up with. Apparently, the names have gotten enough attention and enjoyment out of pilots that the company decided to take the top five most popular results and hold a vote on them.`
			`	Would you like to vote on the name as well?`
			choice
				`	(Yes.)`
				`	(No.)`
					decline
			`	You navigate the article until you are directed to the poll itself, presenting you with the top five options.`
			choice
				`	Star Empress`
				`	Tycho's Legacy`
				`	Shippy McShipface`
				`	It's Dark Here`
				`	What Asteroid`
			action
				event "hogshead poll" 7
			`	After you make your selection, a "thank you" message appears, telling you that the result of the poll will be broadcast on the news once the voting period has finished. Afterwards, you go back about your business.`
				decline

event "hogshead poll"

mission "Hogshead's Dilemma II"
	invisible
	source
		near Sol 1 10
	to offer
		has "Hogshead's Dilemma: offered"
		has "event: hogshead poll"
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you are walking around the spaceport, you see that more than a few pilots are watching the news on nearby displays. There are mixed emotions amongst the crowd - some pilots are having a good laugh while others seem disappointed or even confused. You aren't sure what this is about until, lo and behold, the result of that Hogshead naming poll from a while ago is clearly shown on a display - Shippy McShipface. You can't say it's all that much worse than some of the names you've heard pirates give their ships before, but it still seems silly that the transport company is actually going through with the name.`
			`	All of the hyped discussions around Hogsheads in the past gave them a brief but strong popularity amongst transport organizations looking to grab the average passenger's attention. In the end, the company responsible for this naming poll got what they wanted, and a little bit of the Hogshead's spirit has been brought back, along with the interest of several pilots. Perhaps the name "Shippy McShipface" is fitting after all.`
				decline



mission "Lost Dog"
	name "Lost dog to <planet>"
	description "Bring Caesar, a dog you found on <origin>, to their owners on <destination>."
	source "Calda"
	destination "Glory"
	to offer
		random < 15
	on offer
		conversation
			`Your walk from the <ship> takes you out of <origin>'s bustling spaceport and into the overtly welcoming and carefully inoffensive streets of the spaceport town. Each path seems to be saturated with tourists and purpose-built to whisk travelers further away from their ships and deeper into the preternatural radiance of this Paradise World. The hand-crafted beauty is inescapable, a never-ending sequence of breathtaking views.`
			`	As you walk, you eventually come across a perfectly manicured garden park named "Parc Manifold." You approach the gates to discover a ticket office, with signs advertising a free entry promotion this week only, crossing out the 3,400 credit regular admission fee.`
			choice
				`	(Go to the park.)`
					goto park
				`	(Head back to your ship.)`

			`	You have more important things to do than wander around an expensive terraformed garden.`
				decline

			label park
			`	The park has been meticulously sculpted so that no matter where you stand, it appears as though you are in the center of a lush naturalist painting. Colorful, comforting flora bleed away from you at all angles, and adorable yet inaccessible fauna seem to hug the very periphery of your every step.`
			`	The air is clear and crisp, and even the crunch of leaves and thud of the earth beneath your feet seems somehow delicious and satisfying. Finally, the sun begins to set and you remember from the signs that the park closes soon.`
			`	As you approach the exit to the park a small dog pads over to you and looks at you with mournful eyes. It seems to be alone, with no owner anywhere in sight.`
			choice
				`	(Call to the dog.)`
					goto "dog lover"
				`	(Ignore the dog.)`

			`	You ignore the dog and eventually it sulks away to interact with another patron of the park. As you return to your ship it begins to get dark, and you feel your day of quiet contemplation come to a close.`
				decline

			label "dog lover"
			`	"Come here," you call to the dog, which looks to be a poodle mix, and it obediently does as you command. You see that the dog is a male and check his collar:`
			``
			`	"Caesar Augustus - Property of the Mitchells"`
			`	3 Mitchell Drive`
			`	Palmyra City, Avalonia District,`
			`	Glory, Wazn System`
			``
			`	"That's odd," you say to Caesar. "How did you get lost on the wrong planet, huh boy?"`
			choice
				`	(Take Caesar to his owners on Glory.)`
					goto "take him"
				`	(Leave Caesar here.)`

			action
				event "lost dog: homeward bound" 30 60
			`	Perhaps his owners are on vacation and will be back looking for him any minute. Although it's getting dark and no one seems to be around, you decide the best course of action is to leave Caesar where you found him.`
			`	As you turn away, Caesar begins to whine, but he soon quiets down when you don't come back to pick him up. Looking back, you notice him slinking off into the shadow of a perfectly manicured shrub.`
				decline

			label "take him"
			`	"Well, come on boy," you say. "Let's go."`
			`	Caesar eagerly follows you back to your ship. He seems greatly relieved to be with you, and not left all alone at the park.`
			`	Once back on your ship, you make sure he's fed, watered, and settled in for his interstellar journey.`
				accept

	on complete
		payment 1000
		conversation
			branch "transported pookie"
				has "Pookie, Part 2: done"
				not "outfit: Puny"
			`Caesar has been very obedient the whole trip, much to your relief. He lies down by the airlock while your ship sets down in the local Palmyra spaceport, which is enclosed on all sides by a squalid urban landscape - the honeycombed homes of the humble help. You rent a vehicle and take yourself and Caesar beyond the blighted city and out into the pleasant, picture-perfect paradise of the affluent. One princely estate after another rolls past you as you drive deeper into the rural domains of the Republic's super-wealthy. Eventually, you come across a large metal gate that reads, "Mitchell Ranch."`
				goto ranch

			label "transported pookie"
			`Caesar has been very obedient the whole trip, unlike certain other dogs you've transported in the past. He lays down by the airlock while your ship sets down in the local Palmyra spaceport, which is enclosed on all sides by a squalid urban landscape - the honeycombed homes of the humble help. You rent a vehicle and take yourself and Caesar beyond the blighted city and out into the pleasant picture-perfect paradise of the affluent. One princely estate after another rolls past you as you drive deeper into the rural domains of the Republic's super-wealthy. Eventually, you come across a large metal gate that reads, "Mitchell Ranch."`

			label ranch
			`	You spend another forty-five minutes of driving down long winding roads, past various outbuildings, lodges, retreats, guest houses, and hobby barns. At long last, you arrive at the massive central mansion. Waiting at the bottom of stone stairs is a footman who opens the door for you and summons the senior butler.`
			`	The butler arrives and looks you over unhappily. "The lady of the manor is not expecting... guests. Perhaps, you've misread your appointment, or more likely, arrived at the wrong estate."`
			choice
				`	(Show Caesar to the butler and ask to see his owner.)`

			`	The butler's frown deepens as you show Caesar to him.`
			`	He sighs and says, "Card, please." He holds out a silver tray and awaits your calling card.`
			choice
				`	(Explain you don't have a calling card.)`
					goto "no card"
				`	(Place your card on the tray.)`
					to display
						"net worth" > 20000000

			`	The butler's eyebrows rise in the slightest hint of surprise when you place your card on the tray. He promptly turns and disappears into the overlarge house. You, Caesar, and the footman all wait for half an hour before a woman arrives at the front entrance, wearing an exceedingly complicated gown.`
				goto boolinbrook

			label "no card"
			`	The butler smiles smugly. "How unfortunate. In that case, I have no choice but to bring you in through the servants' entrance. It's only proper."`
			`	Instead of taking you up the wide stairs to the beautifully inscribed wooden doors, he ushers you around the side to a small plain door. You are left there with the footman to wait.`
			`	Three quarters of an hour later, a woman wearing an exceedingly impractical dress arrives.`

			label boolinbrook
			`	"Mr. Boolinbrook says you've brought back my darling See-See?" She looks down her nose at you and waits for your response.`
			choice
				`	"Your dog is safe and sound with me."`
				`	"I found Caesar alone, out in a park on Calda."`
				`	"Here he is. You're welcome."`

			`	Before you can respond, Caesar starts yapping happily and runs up to the lady.`
			`	She snatches up the dog and draws it to her bosom. "Oh my darling See-See! It has been most dreadful waiting for news of you!"`
			`	After a moment she turns her attention back to you, looking slightly softer than before. "See-See tires of the parks here, and so every Tuesday I send him to Calda for a change of pace. It's good for his constitution, you know. Anyway, the horrid man who normally ferries our dogs on these little excursions had some sort of episode. A stroke, or a heart attack - you get the idea. He had an assistant return the dogs, but in the confusion, they forgot my little See-See. I was sure some gauche tourist would have snatched him up and eaten him by now."`
			`	She turns her attention back to the dog and speaks to him in baby talk. "But, instead, this gallant captain saved you!"`
			`	The lady snaps her fingers, and the butler is immediately at her side. "We must make this person whole. I can't be perceived as owing favors to vagabonds. Imagine the talk!"`
			`	The butler quickly procures a credit chip and shows it to her, accepting a curt nod for approval. "I realize that this is probably a fortune to you," she says. "I recommend you find a financial advisor and invest it well."`
			`	With that, she turns and leaves; the butler likewise disappears, and you're escorted by the footman back to your vehicle.`
			`	You look down at the credit chip in your hand and read its value: <payment>.`


event "lost dog: homeward bound"


mission "Lost Dog: Homeward Bound"
	minor
	invisible
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
	to offer
		has "event: lost dog: homeward bound"
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you're walking through the spaceport, your eye is drawn to a marginally familiar figure on a nearby newsfeed. Although you can't make out exactly what it is saying over the din, you are able to gather that Caesar, the little lost dog you ran into on Calda, has become something of a minor celebrity after it managed to get back home to Glory all by itself. The newsfeed scrolls down to show images of the dog skiing, sneaking onto transports, and riding automatic farming equipment.`
				decline



mission "Adelita 1"
	minor
	name "Exhibition installations to <planet>"
	description `Transport <tons> of exhibition installations to <destination> for the Adelita collective. Payment is <payment>.`
	cargo "exhibition installations" 5
	source "Follower"
	destination "Moonshake"
	to offer
		or
			random < 10
			and
				random < 60
				or
					has "Expedition to Hope 2: done"
					has "FW Katya 4: done"
					has "visited planet: Hope"
		"combat rating" > 40

	on offer
		conversation
			branch "know about disaster"
				has "FW Katya 4: done"

			branch "has visited"
				has "visited planet: Hope"

			`Walking on the edges of <origin>'s spaceport district, you notice signage advertising an exhibition about the planet Hope and the disaster and evacuation that happened on it in 2994; you vaguely remember it as being a planet in a system southwest of New Boston. But what makes it stand out from the typical advertisements that you see on notice boards and interactive screens is some of its colorful language: "Considered Offensive by Paradisians," "Why We Can't Give Up Hope," and "Evicted by the Paradise Planets."`
				goto directions

			label "has visited"
			`Walking on the edges of <origin>'s spaceport district, you notice signage advertising an exhibition about the planet Hope and the disaster and evacuation that happened on it in 2994; you remember having been there once before on an excursion. But what makes it stand out from the typical advertisements that you see on notice boards and interactive screens is some of its colorful language: "Considered Offensive by Paradisians," "Why We Can't Give Up Hope," and "Evicted by the Paradise Planets."`
				goto directions

			label "know about disaster"
			`Walking on the edges of <origin>'s spaceport district, you notice signage advertising an exhibition about the planet Hope and the disaster and evacuation that happened on it in 2994; you remember talking about it with Katya and Ijs while you were investigating the source of the nuclear bombings. But what makes it stand out from the typical advertisements that you see on notice boards and interactive screens is some of its colorful language: "Considered Offensive by Paradisians," "Why We Can't Give Up Hope," and "Evicted by the Paradise Planets."`

			label directions
			`	At the bottom of each sign are the directions to get to the exhibition. It appears to be located in a warehouse yard nearby, where the spaceport district borders the city that surrounds it.`
			choice
				`	(Check it out.)`
				`	(Not interested.)`
					decline

			`	Following the signage, you notice a substantial group of people gathered in front of a large warehouse that stands out amongst the rest of the warehouses in the yard. As you wait in the queue, a young woman lines up behind you with a readily apparent exuberance and asks you, "Just out of curiosity, how much do you know about Hope and its history?"`
			choice
				`	"Not much at all."`
				`	"I come from the Dirt Belt, but I really don't know too much about what happened on Hope."`
				`	"I've been there myself and know what happened, but other than that I don't know."`
					goto "been to hope"
					to display
						has "visited planet: Hope"
						not "Expedition to Hope 2: done"
						not "FW Katya 4: done"
				`	"I've been there myself, actually, and met some people affected by it."`
					goto "been to hope"
					to display
						or
							has "Expedition to Hope 2: done"
							and
								has "FW Katya 4: done"
								has "visited planet: Hope"
							has "Stone to Hope: done"
				`	"I haven't been there myself, but I know people who have been affected by it."`
					to display
						has "FW Katya 4: done"
						not "visited planet: Hope"

			`	"Well then it's a good thing you're seeing Adelita's exhibition on Hope. It's really moving. You'll learn a lot about the tragedy and what Parliament and the Paradise Worlds did to everybody who tried to help," she adds somewhat sullenly. "You know, this was their first work that really got them famous in the interplanetary scene, but they've been forced to close it, so today's their final day. I had to see it one more time before they went."`
				goto questions

			label "been to hope"
			`	"Oh, wow! It must have been a harrowing experience. Adelita does a powerful job of giving you the whole story, though, and I bet you'll still learn a lot. You might even feel as if you've been transported back there yourself," she says. "You know, this was their first work that really got them famous in the interplanetary scene, but they've been forced to close it and today's their final day. I had to see it one more time before they went."`

			label questions
			choice
				`	"Who's Adelita?"`
				`	"Why did they have to close it?"`
					goto signage

			`	"They're an independent journalistic collective all about the injustices of human civilization. No one knows who they really are, but Adelita's work is what inspired me to study journalism. Their use of mixed media, their eye for story telling... I just love it. I know you're going to love it too," she says.`
				goto exhibition

			label signage
			`	"Well, this exhibition used to be permanent, but the planetary government was pressured by the Paradise Planets to force Adelita to leave. What Parliament and the Paradise Planets did to the people of Hope was abhorrent. Now Adelita's bringing light to it, and they're being silenced. It's wrong."`

			label exhibition
			`	You reach the entrance to the exhibition soon enough. Inside is a large room filled with photos, videos, interviews, and other mixed media. They focus on three groups: the refugees of Hope, the Navy that saved them, and the Paradise Worlds that protested the evacuation. At one end of the warehouse, there is an installation with nearly a hundred original protest signs from rallies against the Dirt Belt and the Republic Navy; some of them are quite crude and tasteless. It's a strong rebuke to see those displayed here, so close to the Paradise Planets.`
			`	There are many, many photos, but one in particular catches your eye. It's of a woman standing in line to board a ship, a baby held at her hip and a look of sadness and determination on her face. The mother and child's cheeks, rosy and chapped, stand out in contrast with the cold blues in the background.`
			`	You head toward the exit, but as the automatic doors open, an arctic blast pummels into you from out of nowhere. Instead of <origin>'s spaceport, you find yourself in a life-sized 3D representation of the evacuation of Hope, complete with simulated climate effects and a projected horizon. There are huge Navy Cruisers and Auxiliaries in a snowy field near a small town gradually being covered by ash as hundreds of refugees slowly board. But what stands out most is the massive volcano erupting in the background.`
			`	"It's more of a collage than an exact rendering," says the young woman you met in line, having followed you all this way. "They took 3D recordings from different moments and areas of Hope and edited them together in various loops. The volcano was actually on the other side of the planet, for example. The magic of editing. What do you think?"`
			choice
				`	"Impressive."`
				`	"It's alright."`
				`	"Isn't that a bit deceptive?"`
					goto deceptive

			`	"I've been here ten times and I always manage to be awestruck," the woman replies. "Enjoy the exhibition while you still can!" She heads for the exit.`
			choice
				`	(Continue wandering around the exhibit.)`
					goto wander
				`	(Go to the exit.)`
					goto exit

			label deceptive
			`	"Deceptive?! No," the woman responds in a ruffled manner. "If you call this deception you must have a distaste for the media," she chuckles. "This form of journalism is as authentic as journalism gets! Now, of course Adelita takes creative liberties, but it's all in the pursuit of education and justice.`
			`	"Well, for what it's worth, I've been here ten times and I always manage to be awestruck," the woman says. "Enjoy the exhibition while you still can." She heads for the exit.`
			choice
				`	(Continue wandering around the exhibit.)`
				`	(Go to the exit.)`
					goto exit

			label wander
			branch katya
				has "FW Katya 4: done"

			`	Inside houses, you see families frantically gathering their belongings and running for the Navy ships. You walk down one of the lines of refugees, observing each person - their faces harried, frightened, resolute. From the corner of your eye, you notice that a Navy officer slips in the snow, and as you look around, a young man helps him up. Wandering around the exhibit gives you a sense of the desperation of the people as they evacuate, though it's a bit disconcerting when the occasional hologram walks through you.`
				goto "move on"

			label katya
			`	Inside houses, you see families frantically gathering their belongings and running for the Navy ships; it strikes you that somewhere here is a young Katya leaving her doomed home. You walk down one of the lines of refugees, observing each person - their faces harried, frightened, resolute. From the corner of your eye, you notice that a Navy officer slips in the snow, and as you look around, a young man helps him up. Wandering around the exhibit gives you a sense of the desperation of the people as they evacuate, though it's a bit disconcerting when the occasional hologram walks through you.`

			label "move on"
			`	As you move on, you're startled to find yourself face-to-face with the woman holding the baby, right where they were in the photo. She takes little steps toward the ship while bouncing the baby on her hip. A young woman with a camera and a respirator covering her face walks up to her, asks a question, and begins to take photos.`
			`	Suddenly, the entire projection disappears in a disorienting flash, leaving you in a cordoned-off section of the warehouse. The exhibit is nearly empty as a woman walks up to you. "One of the authors loves that moment too. That's probably why she fought so hard to have that part left in." She mutters something about a "security risk" under her breath, and then turns her attention back to you.`
			`	"Oh, how rude of me," she says, offering her hand. "My name is Mariel. I organize these exhibitions and act as a spokesperson for Adelita. And you are?"`
			choice
				`	"I'm <first> <last>."`
					goto extended
				`	"I'm Captain <last>."`

			`	"Captain," she says, her eyes lighting up. "Well, as you may know, this is the last day of the exhibition. The captain I hired to transport everything back to <planet> is not only rude, but is now late. I would much rather have it in the hands of someone who appreciates the work. I was going to pay him 60,000 credits, but I'll pay you <payment> to take his contract instead given the short notice. What do you say?"`
				goto choice

			label extended
			`	"Right," she says. "Hey, would you happen to know any ships which can take on <tons> of this exhibition's equipment to <destination>? As you may know, this is the last day of the exhibition. The captain I hired to transport everything is not only rude, but is now late, and I need someone to take his contract on short notice."`
			choice
				`	"Well, I'm the captain of the <ship>."`
				`	"Sorry, I can't help you."`
					goto decline

			`	Mariel's eyes light up. "Great! I was going to pay him 60,000 credits, but I'll pay you <payment> to take his contract instead. What do you say?"`

			label choice
			choice
				`	"I would love to."`
					goto accept
				`	"I've got more pressing matters at hand."`

			`	"Oh. I thought that would be a pretty good deal for you, especially given the chance to meet the artists. But it's your call."`
			choice
				`	"Okay, I'll do it."`
				`	"I'm sorry, I can't take the job."`
					goto decline

			label accept
			`	"Great!" Mariel says. "I will have our crew get everything ready to load at your ship promptly."`
			`	After a couple hours, the whole exhibition is packed up and ready for transport to <planet>.`
				accept

			label decline
			`	"That's unfortunate. I'll have to find someone else, then." Mariel glances at her watch. "Well, anyway, the exhibition has closed. I'm going to have to ask you to leave."`
				decline

			label exit
			`	Following her, you find the true exit of the warehouse and go back out onto the more familiar grounds of <origin>'s spaceport.`
				decline

	on visit
		dialog `You arrive on <planet>, but realize that your escort carrying the exhibition installations has not arrived yet. Better depart and wait for your escorts to enter the system.`

	on complete
		log `Saw an impressive exhibition on the Evacuation of Hope and ended up with a job taking the whole thing to Moonshake.`
		payment 80000
		event "adelita 2 offer expired" 1
		conversation
			`After navigating the thick fog of Moonshake's atmosphere, you find a motley crew waiting on your landing pad. After they're done taking Adelita's cargo away, one of the crew walks up to you and hands you a credit chip for <payment> and a note. It reads:`
			``
			`	Meet me at the Common Grounds Cafe in the spaceport if you're interested in assisting us with a new project. Make sure you're not followed.`
			`		-Adelita Zero`


event "adelita 2 offer expired"


mission "Adelita 2"
	name "Film Syndicate sweatshop on <planet>"
	description "Participate in an unauthorized filming of a Syndicate sweatshop on <destination>. You will be paid <payment> after you complete the entire job."
	cargo "stealth drones" 1
	passengers 3
	"apparent payment" 200000
	source "Moonshake"
	destination "Maker"
	to offer
		has "Adelita 1: done"
		not "adelita 2 offer expired"

	on offer
		conversation
			`It takes a while to navigate through the bustling spaceport and the almost viscous fog of <origin>. After finding an information screen, you're able to get to the Common Grounds Cafe, which has a funky vibe to it and is quite busy. Nobody seems to recognize you, so you take a seat at a booth and order something to eat.`
			`	Before your meal arrives, however, a woman with dark hair, maybe in her late thirties, sits down across from you and hails the server. She cheerfully orders a smoothie with a long list of ingredients, many of which you have neither heard of nor can pronounce.`
			`	"Sorry for the cloak and dagger bit," the woman says to you finally. "We have enemies in high places. So Captain <last>, what did you think of the exhibition?"`
			choice
				`	"I found it quite moving."`
				`	"It was okay."`
					goto wasok
				`	"It was too political for me."`
					goto political

			`	"I'm glad you liked it," she says, smiling.`
				goto choice

			label wasok
			`	"Not exactly a rave review, but you're entitled to your opinion," she says, smiling.`
				goto choice

			label political
			`	"Oh. Unfortunately for many, everything is political. It was political when the Paradise Worlds tried to block the evacuation. And it was political when the Navy did it anyway without the permission of Parliament. And the same goes for every single act of oppression and liberation since the dawn of humanity. Our oppressors are very political. Maybe you have the hope of being one someday: wealthy, authoritarian, exploitative. Or maybe you just don't care. Either way, you don't sound like a good fit for this project. But thanks for transporting the installations," she says with a smile. She gets her smoothie to-go and walks out.`
				decline

			label choice
			`	"I heard from Mariel that you saw me take the photos of the woman and her baby," she says. "I really liked that moment, but not many notice it." She takes a quick glance around before leaning in closer. "We need a captain to transport a team to one planet, quickly land on another, and then pick up the team and return here with everyone safe and sound. I can't tell you much more than that until you accept, but it's nothing too dicey. It's a dangerous universe, though, so who knows?" She looks at you expectantly.`
			`	"Oh, and we have to leave today. It will pay, of course. <payment>. So, what do you say? Are you in or out?" When she finishes speaking, your order is served while she drinks her smoothie.`
			choice
				`	"In."`
				`	"Out."`
					goto out

			`	"Great. My name is Alejandra, but call me Ale. Here's the plan: you're going to drop me and a friend off at <planet>, where we'll film the conditions in a secret Syndicate sweatshop.`
			`	"Thing is, these aren't just poorly paid factory workers. They're slaves. As you can imagine, we can't get in as regular workers, so with a bit of hacking, we got ourselves jobs on-site as private security. We know that one of the Syndicate's 'trusted contractors' is getting the slaves from the pirates on Covert, and we also know where they're doing the transaction.`
			`	"So while we get the footage we need in the factories, you'll be going with my associate, Bunker, to spy on the Syndicate's rendezvous with the pirates on Hippocrates."`
			choice
				`	"Hold on, pirates?"`
				`	"Won't this get me in trouble with the Syndicate?"`
					goto syndicate

			`	"Don't worry, Bunker is a pro, and we have an array of long-range stealth drones that do the spying. You won't be anywhere near them. You might encounter some lone pirates on the way though, so you'll need to be quick."`
				goto leave

			label syndicate
			`	"Well, I did say we had enemies in high places, didn't I? But don't worry. Bunker's a pro. We have an array of long-range stealth drones that do the spying. You won't be anywhere near them, though pirates do frequent the system, so you'll need to be quick."`

			label leave
			choice
				`	"Got it."`
				`	"Sorry, I don't like the sound of this."`
					goto out

			`	She waves to the server for the bill as she finishes the last gulp of her smoothie. "Let's go. Everyone will be meeting at the landing pad shortly."`
			`	You go back to the <ship>'s landing pad, and sure enough, there are two people with backpacks and a few cases waiting for you. They introduce themselves as River and Bunker, and they enthusiastically stow their equipment away without a hitch.`
			`	"Good. Now that that's done with, let's load up," says Bunker, before letting out a holler. "Taking down the Man. I love it!"`
				accept

			label out
			`	"I'm sorry to hear that... I suppose it just wasn't meant to be." She gulps down her smoothie at lightning speed before leaving just as quickly.`
				decline

	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo and passenger on visit"


mission "Adelita 3"
	landing
	name "Film slave transaction"
	description "Do a flyby of <destination> while Bunker spies on the slave transaction. You will be paid <payment> after you complete the entire job."
	cargo "stealth drones" 1
	passengers 1
	infiltrating
	"apparent payment" 200000
	source "Maker"
	destination "Hippocrates"
	to offer
		has "Adelita 2: done"

	on offer
		conversation
			`You drop off Ale and River at the spaceport, watching as they try to seem neither visibly embarrassed to be in their security uniforms nor uncomfortable with their disguises, even though they're now virtually indistinguishable from other Syndicate personnel. Bunker can't stop laughing at them. Everyone wishes each other luck as the two walk off, and you and Bunker go back to the <ship> and prepare for the journey to <planet>.`
				accept

	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo and passenger on visit"


mission "Adelita 4"
	landing
	name "Take the film to <planet>"
	description "Take the film to <destination>, where the rest of the Adelita group remained behind. You will be paid <payment> after you complete the entire job."
	passengers 1
	cargo "stealth drones" 1
	infiltrating
	"apparent payment" 200000
	source "Hippocrates"
	destination "Maker"
	to offer
		has "Adelita 3: done"

	on offer
		conversation
			`As you enter <origin>'s atmosphere Bunker explains that you need to find a place to land in order for him to be able to release the drones. Luckily on this part of <origin>, it's not hard to find a remote canyon within range of the target area.`
			`	Bunker locates a sheltered outcrop near the <ship> and releases the drones from a briefcase he took with him; the drones are so small you can't make them out. He then unpacks the drones' controller and display feed and sets it up on a flat boulder, using a smaller rock as a stool to sit on while he prepares the drones. "Okay, they're on autopilot to the rendezvous site."`
			`	As you watch the display, the drones arrive on site, and you can see a lone Syndicate-built freighter with a security detail posted in front of the loading ramp. "The pirates must be late," says Bunker, smirking. "Typical. I'm going to scatter the drones and set a proximity alert."`
			`	He hums to himself for a while before he turns to you and starts talking again. "You know, there's a part of me that would much rather be liberating slaves instead of filming them, but for now it seems like this is the best way for me to help. Say we did liberate them right now; there's just going to be another slave ship tomorrow. But if we create political and social pressure, that could stop the slave ships forever."`
			choice
				`	"I think you're right."`
				`	"What about doing both?"`
					goto plan
				`	"Are you sure it's that simple?"`
					goto cynic

			`	"Thank you! It's good to hear someone who's optimistic about this. Way too many people are unconscious about slavery in our civilization, or they believe there's nothing anybody can do about it. If we can-" A chirp from the proximity alert cuts him off.`
				goto showtime

			label cynic
			`	"Of course not. And that's why I'm working here instead, to make sure there'll be a time and place in the future where we can finally declare the galaxy free of slavery. What if-" A chirp from the proximity alert cuts him off.`
				goto showtime

			label plan
			`	"Now you're talking! But it would take a lot of planning to do it without killing the people we're trying to liberate. You know they'll use those poor people as human shields. Say we-" A chirp from the proximity alert cuts him off.`

			label showtime
			`	"Showtime!" he exclaims, rubbing his hands together. Both of you watch as a Vanguard flying pirate colors, accompanied by a small flotilla of Quicksilver escorts, lands near the security detail, probably deafening them with the sound of their repulsors. As soon as the loading ramp is down, the security detail gets to work herding the slaves from one ship to another - hitting, shoving, and shouting at anyone that moves too slowly for their liking.`
			`	"Pigs," blurts out Bunker. He zooms in on two men talking a few meters away from everyone else. One is in a suit, the other a black hooded robe. "Must be the leaders," he whispers as if they can hear him. Just then, the hooded man looks up to the sky as if he sees something. He motions, and the Quicksilvers fire up their engines.`
			`	"Oh, I don't like the look of this," says Bunker.`
			choice
				`	"Did he see us?"`
					goto "see us"
				`	"Call back the drones now."`
					goto "call drones"
				`	"I think we'll have to leave the drones behind."`
					goto "no can do"
				`	"Keep filming."`

			`	"I don't know. I think we oughta get going," says Bunker, grimacing.`
			choice
				`	"Okay. Call the drones back."`
					goto "call drones"
				`	"That's an order!"`

			`	"You're the captain, you decide whether we go or not," Bunker responds in a sore tone. Meanwhile, you continue to watch the display. It takes a couple minutes before the last of the slaves are loaded, followed by the security team. The two men in the suit and hood are the last to board their ships.`
			`	You hear the sudden hum of repulsors overhead, replaced simultaneously by the reports of particle cannons from the Quicksilvers! You think you hear Bunker swear as he leaps off his seat, the both of you running towards the <ship>, dirt and rock kicking up around you from strafing particle fire- until you're engulfed by a searing yellow beam that splits your body apart as a Quicksilver finally finds its mark.`
				die

			label "see us"
			`	"I have no idea," says Bunker. "But it's probably time to go."`
			choice
				`	"Call back the drones now."`
					goto "call drones"
				`	"I think we have to leave the drones behind."`

			label "no can do"
			`	Bunker hits the recall button for the drones anyway. "This display is a low resolution proxy," explains Bunker. "If we leave the drones, we'll lose all the footage we need. It looks like the Quicksilvers aren't coming straight for us. We have time. The drones are less than two minutes out."`
			choice
				`	"We're leaving. Now!"`
				`	"Fine. Get to the <ship> and lock down the drones as soon as they land. We take off on your mark."`
					goto "call drones"

			`	"I can't let you do that, <first>," says Bunker, standing between you and the controls. "The drones are almost here. It'll take me no time to lock them down once we're on the <ship>, then we're out of here.`
			choice
				`	(Force him to stand down.)`
					goto pistol
				`	(Get back to the <ship> and let Bunker lock down the drones.)`

			`	You nod, and Bunker immediately packs up the entire controller and display set, packing it away in his briefcase in seconds.`
				goto flee

			label "call drones"
			`	"Aye aye, Captain," he says as he hits a button. "Drone ETA: two minutes, fifteen seconds." He packs up the entire controller and display set and has it packed away in his briefcase in seconds.`

			label flee
			`	The both of you race onboard the <ship> and you prepare it for take off while Bunker heads to the cargo bay to receive the drones. "Lock down the drones as soon as they arrive and get belted in," you say over the comms to Bunker. "We'll take off on your mark."`
			`	Less than a minute later, you hear Bunker's reply. "Drones are locked down and ready to go."`
			`	You immediately raise the shields and take off. The moment you pull out of the canyon, pirate Quicksilvers appear from every direction; not far behind them, the Vanguard you saw earlier. You shunt the <ship>'s repulsors into full blast and accelerate into space with the pirates in hot pursuit.`
				launch

			label pistol
			`	You get up and point your pistol at Bunker while ordering him to stand down. "Don't do this," he says, shrinking from you as he puts his hands up. As you are restraining him you hear the sudden hum of repulsors overhead, replaced simultaneously by the reports of particle cannons from the Quicksilvers! You find yourself letting go of Bunker, the both of you running towards the <ship>, dirt and rock kicking up around you from strafing particle fire- until you're engulfed by a searing yellow beam that splits your body apart as a Quicksilver finally finds its mark.`
				die

	npc
		personality heroic nemesis vindictive launching
		government "Pirate"
		ship "Quicksilver" "Dog's Leash"
		ship "Quicksilver" "Burning Whip"
		ship "Quicksilver" "Iron Chains"
		ship "Vanguard" "Cat o' Nine Tails"

	npc
		personality fleeing uninterested launching
		government "Merchant"
		ship "Bulk Freighter" "Ramona"

	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo and passenger on visit"


mission "Adelita 5"
	landing
	name "Return Adelita to <planet>"
	description "Bring everyone back to <destination>. You will be paid <payment> after you complete the entire job."
	passengers 3
	cargo "stealth drones" 1
	"apparent payment" 200000
	source "Maker"
	destination "Moonshake"
	to offer
		has "Adelita 4: done"

	on offer
		conversation
			`You managed to deal with the Quicksilvers and arrive on <origin> alive. As soon as you land, Ale and River rush on board, obviously relieved to be out of their disguises, and they spend a lot of time talking with Bunker about his part of the mission. Although exhausted, all of them are eager to get back and process what they filmed - both emotionally and literally.`
			`	"That was horrible, but we got it done," Ale mumbles. "Can we leave now?"`
				accept

	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic cargo and passenger on visit"

	on complete
		payment 220000
		log `Helped the underground journalism collective "Adelita" gather video evidence of Syndicate participation in the slave trade while escaping from pirates.`
		conversation
			`Ale, River, and Bunker look glad to be back on <planet>. "Being there in person was bad enough," Ale grumbles as she looks through a stack of folders on her datapad. "Now we have to watch it over and over again to edit it into something presentable."`
			`	As they are leaving, Ale hands you a stack of credit chips totaling <payment>. "There's a bonus in there for you. We really couldn't have done it without you," she tells you with a bittersweet smile. "Of course, you'll be one of the first to know when it's done."`
			`	She starts off to join River and Bunker out in the spaceport before turning around one last time in the doorway. "We might be in need of you for some future projects too, Captain <last>. But goodbye for now. Stay safe on the star lanes!"`



mission "Syndicate Business 1"
	name "Rescue kidnapped man in <waypoints>"
	description "You have received a mysterious distress call from an alleged abductee in the <waypoints> system. Head there to see if you can find the signal's source."
	minor
	to offer
		random < 40
		credits > 5000000
	source
		government "Syndicate"
		not planet "Sunracer"
	waypoint "Moktar"
	destination "Sunracer"
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you are walking through the spaceport, you are startled by a sudden loud beeping from a nearby computer terminal. The computer is unattended and the screen is blinking on and off.`
			choice
				`	(Check it out.)`
				`	(Ignore it.)`
					decline
			`	When you approach, you are greeted by plain text on the terminal's screen:`
			`		"SOS: Megaparsec employee kidnapped by pirates, can't respond. <waypoints> standard coordinates: RAD AU 30.12 LAT 0.2 LON 303.9. Life in danger, need urgent rescue. Cannot otherwise communicate, all signals monitored. Please help!"`
			`	You note that the message appears to be coming from an emergency transmitter commonly found on many small shuttles and escape pods. There is no shortage of pirates in <waypoints>, which is only a system away from Megaparsec's headquarters on <planet>. Presumably, you'll be expected to head there after rescuing the Megaparsec employee.`
			choice
				`	(Head to <waypoints>.)`
					accept
				`	(Ignore it and walk away.)`
					decline
	on accept
		event "start of independent violence"
	on enter "Moktar"
		"reputation: Independent (Killable)" = -1000
		conversation
			`When you enter <waypoints>, your sensors detect a pirate Vanguard and a derelict Emergency Shuttle aimlessly drifting near the coordinates in the original message. Almost immediately, you receive a message from the pirate ship.`
			`	"You were unwise to get involved in our business. Hand over that pompous salesman Howard, and I'll let you live."`
			choice
				`	"Uhhh... hand over who?"`
				`	"I don't negotiate with pirates!"`
					goto negotiate
				`	"You can take him, but I don't know where he is."`
			`	"Bah, you spineless buffoon! Your lies won't save you or that useless salesman. I'll find him in your ship's wreckage!"`
				goto power
			label negotiate
			`	"Aye, then I won't negotiate with you! Prepare to meet your end!"`
			label power
			`	The Vanguard's engines roar to life and you see a baker's half-dozen guns take aim at your ship, ready to fire.`
	npc
		government "Independent (Killable)"
		personality heroic staying vindictive
			confusion 20
		system "Moktar"
		ship "Vanguard" "Golden Jewel"
		on kill
			set "syndicate business: golden jewel dead"
			dialog "The crew of the Golden Jewel are no more. You think you can make out the pirate captain drifting in space nearby."
	npc save assist
		government "Independent"
		personality derelict quiet escort
		system "Moktar"
		ship "Emergency Shuttle" "Escape Pod 001"
		on kill
			dialog "You watch as the Emergency Shuttle you're supposed to save explodes into a cloud of debris."
		conversation
			`You board the Emergency Shuttle to see its desperate and nearly incoherent occupant. "Oh thank the stars, thank you! Captain, you've got to save me - please! I'm Howard. I promise you a reward if you can fix up this tin can so I can get to my office on <planet>! I'm with Megaparsec, I can make it worth your while!"`
			choice
				`	"Sounds good."`
					decline
				`	"What's the deal with you and that pirate?"`
			`	Howard takes a breath and seems to calm himself. "That pirate was a potential investor in the firm I work for. We had a disagreement over the terms and it obviously got quite out of hand. I'll need to find a new business partner now..." He trails off. Time to get Howard back to <planet>.`
	on complete
		"reputation: Independent (Killable)" = 10
		event "end of independent violence"
		log `Rescued a Syndicate salesman kidnapped by pirates, who then offered an investment opportunity.`
		log "People" "Howard Vendeur" `A polished yet insecure Megaparsec businessman, Howard is a salesman known for brokering investment deals. While polite, Howard seems rarely concerned with ethics or personal connections, instead focusing on transactions that further his own interests.`
		conversation
			`When you land on <planet>, Howard is waiting for you at the spaceport, looking much more collected than he was on the Emergency Shuttle. "Thank you, truly. I'm Howard Vendeur, Investor Relations Associate with Megaparsec Incorporated. Anyway, I've managed to scrounge up my savings. It's not much to someone like you, I'm afraid. Just over ninety thousand credits.`
			`	"However, I see you're clearly a captain of means. I'd have to pull a few strings, but I could get you into a private placement of a Megaparsec Inc. perpetual bond. To purchase a perpetual bond of Megaparsec Inc. I will need one million credits and for you to sign a few documents. This round is quite generous, with promised returns of over 35% per annum, to continue, of course, into perpetuity, paid out to you as a daily dividend of 1,000 credits."`
			choice
				`	"Sure, I'll invest. What do I need to do?"`
					goto invest
				`	"Megaparsec? I thought that was part of the Syndicate."`
				`	"Private placement? Does that mean I own part of the Syndicate?"`
					goto placement
				`	"No thanks. I'll take the money, please."`
					goto "pay up"
			label mega
			`	"Megaparsec Incorporated is a proud affiliate of Syndicated Systems that accepts some private outside investment. We specialize in the design and manufacture of innovative, fast, and lightweight high-performance commercial and military space vehicles. Though a relatively young shipyard, our ships can still outmaneuver and outgun almost anything their size. Would you like to invest?"`
			choice
				`	"Sure, I'll invest. What do I need to do?"`
					goto invest
				`	"Nope, I'll stick with the 90k."`
					goto "pay up"
			label placement
			`	"Not quite. You will be a lender to an affiliate of Syndicated Systems - Megaparsec Incorporated. As a privately held business, there are few opportunities to invest, and even fewer people who are permitted to. It's quite an exclusive investment, with high returns, I might add. Would you like to invest with us?"`
			choice
				`	"Sure, I'll invest. What do I need to do?"`
				`	"Nope, I'll stick with the 90k."`
					goto "pay up"
			label invest
			`	"Excellent. I'll need to get approval for the bond sale and set up the paperwork. Feel free to come by my kiosk in the spaceport here later today if you're ready to invest, or another time if you need longer. Remember, you'll need to have at least one million credits for the bond purchase, and I'll need you to transport me to Hephaestus to take care of a few other administrative tasks."`
				decline
			label "pay up"
			`	"Erhm, yes, of course. Here you are, my savings of ninety-one thousand, nine hundred and fifty one credits. I remain in your debt, and if you still want to invest in us, I will be here."`
			action
				payment 91951
				set "syndicate business: mean to Howard"

event "start of independent violence"
	government "Independent (Killable)"
		"attitude toward"
			"Independent" -.01
	government "Independent"
		"attitude toward"
			"Independent (Killable)" -.01

event "end of independent violence"
	government "Independent (Killable)"
		"attitude toward"
			"Independent" 0
	government "Independent"
		"attitude toward"
			"Independent (Killable)" 0

# Feel free to change this escape shuttle to a different ship once escape pod mechanics are implemented.
ship "Emergency Shuttle"
	sprite "ship/escape shuttle"
	attributes
		category "Utility"
		"cost" 45000
		"shields" 300
		"hull" 600
		"required crew" 1
		"bunks" 10
		"mass" 65
		"drag" 1.7
		"heat dissipation" .7
		"fuel capacity" 100
		"cargo space" 20
		"outfit space" 39
		"weapon capacity" 0
		"engine capacity" 20
		weapon
			"blast radius" 9
			"shield damage" 90
			"hull damage" 45
			"hit force" 135
	outfits
		"KP-6 Photovoltaic Panel" 2
		"LP036a Battery Pack"
		"Outfits Expansion"
		
		"X1050 Ion Engines"

		"Hyperdrive"
		
	engine 0 26
		zoom 1.4
	leak "leak" 40 50
	explode "tiny explosion" 5
	explode "small explosion" 1
	description "This Emergency Shuttle is custom-built, designed to be attached to a larger ship and to serve as a lifeboat if the need arises. It is intentionally designed to maximize the number of people it can carry to safety, but has very little space for outfits."


mission "Syndicate Business 2"
	name "Purchase bond on <planet>"
	description "Bring Howard to <destination> in order to finish the paperwork you'll need to finalize your bond agreement with Megaparsec Incorporated."
	passengers 1
	source "Sunracer"
	destination "Hephaestus"
	blocked "Howard has offered you an investment opportunity, but mentioned that it'll cost you a million credits up front, and you'll need space on your ship to transport him elsewhere. Better come back when you have that, plus a few more credits."
	to offer
		has "Syndicate Business 1: done"
	to accept
		credits > 1100300
	on offer
		conversation
			`You visit the kiosk location Howard gave you at the spaceport, where he immediately spots you and approaches. When he arrives, he thanks you profusely and excitedly tells you what an exclusive offer you've received to be able to purchase a Megaparsec bond.`
			`	"To reiterate, in order to purchase a perpetual Megaparsec Incorporated bond you will need to provide us with an up-front payment of one million credits, and sign some legal documents. Our promised returns are over 35% per annum, which we expect to continue into perpetuity, paid out to you as a daily dividend of 1,000 credits. Do you accept these terms?"`
			choice
				`	"Sure, here's the one million credits."`
					goto signed
				`	"I want to look through these documents before signing."`
				`	"Can I get a lawyer to review this?"`
					goto lawyer
				`	"I need more time to think about this."`
					goto unsure
				`	"No, I'd prefer not to become an investor."`
					decline
			label "looking through"
			`	Howard chuckles as if your request were absurd.`
			`	"Sure, sure, feel free to peruse the first page. But, uh, let me remind you -- this credit agreement is 101 pages long, over 87,000 words. Unless you've got degrees in Syndicate & Megaparsec regulatory investment law and all day to read, I suggest you focus on the highlighted parts. Time is money, my friend, and this deal won't wait forever!"`
			`	Howard slides the cover and first page toward you and taps it impatiently with his pen.`
			choice
				`	(Take a look at what Howard slid over.)`
				`	"Alright, I'll sign."`
					goto signed
				`	"If I can't read the whole thing, I won't sign it. I refuse to become an investor."`
					decline
			`	You look down at the cover page of the private bond credit agreement:`
			``
			`	1,000,000 Credits`
			``
			`	PERPETUAL BOND CREDIT AGREEMENT`
			``
			`		among`
			``
			`	MEGAPARSEC INDUSTRIAL & SYSTEMS EXTERNAL REFUELING COMPANY LIMITED,`
			`		as the Issuer,`
			``
			`	The Several Investors`
			`	from Time to Time Parties Hereto,`
			``
			`	SYNDICATED SYSTEMS ADMIN & COLLATERAL LLC.,`
			`		as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent,`
			``
			`	MEGAPARSEC FINANCE SECURITIES LLC.,`
			`		as the Sole Lead Arranger and Sole Bookrunner`
			choice
				`	(Flip to the first page.)`
			`	PREAMBLE: This Perpetual Bond Credit Agreement ("Agreement") is entered into as of the Effective Date by and between Megaparsec Industrial & Systems External Refueling Company Limited, a duly organized entity under the laws of interstellar commerce within Republic and Syndicate space ("Issuer") and the undersigned individual or entity ("Investor"). This Agreement is made in recognition of the Investor's intent to participate in the perpetual bond offering described herein, subject to all applicable terms, conditions, regulations, obligations, and supplementary materials explicitly or implicitly referenced throughout this document. By signing below, the Investor acknowledges receipt of this Agreement and agrees to the terms and conditions set forth herein.`
			`	ARTICLE I - SUMMARY OF TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF INVESTMENT: The Investor, by executing this Agreement, irrevocably agrees to remit an upfront and final payment of One Million (1,000,000) Credits to the Issuer as consideration for the bond offering of Three Hundred Sixty-Five Thousand (365,000) Credits per annum into perpetuity, payable daily to the Investor. The payment from the Investor to the Issuer shall be deemed fully earned and non-refundable by the Issuer, irrespective of any subsequent event, transaction failure, action, or inaction on the part of either Party. The Issuer, upon receipt of the aforementioned payment, will extend to the Investor the rights and benefits outlined in this Agreement, provided that the Investor complies with all current and future legal, regulatory, and administrative requirements imposed by the Issuer or relevant Republic, Syndicate, or Megaparsec bodies -- including, without limitation, the execution of ancillary documents, disclosures, or agreements not enumerated herein. Refusal to execute any such future instrument may result in the immediate forfeiture of the One Million (1,000,000) Credits, with no further payments required by the Investor beyond the initial investment.`
			`	The Investor acknowledges that they have been provided opportunity to review this Agreement in part or in full and may request a referral to legal counsel certified in Syndicate and Megaparsec regulatory investment law if desired at a standard rate. The Investor's signature below confirms their full and unconditional acceptance of this Agreement, including all foregoing terms and conditions, supplementary materials incorporated herein, and any future amendments or expansions thereto, which shall become immediately binding upon issuance by the Issuer.`
			choice
				`	"I'm ready to sign!"`
					goto signed
				`	"I think I need a lawyer."`
					goto lawyer
				`	"But I don't have a 'complete understanding and acceptance of the foregoing terms and conditions,' so I'm backing out."`
					decline
			label unsure
			`	Howard lets out a laugh, the sound a bit forced, his grin unwavering as a bead of sweat appears on his face. "Ah, I see, you're one of those detail-oriented types. Look, I appreciate thoroughness as much as the next businessperson, but let's be real here -- these documents are standard boilerplate. You don't need a complete understanding of every last word to recognize a golden opportunity when it's staring you in the face."`
			`	He gestures back to the stack of papers with a casual wave of his hand. "But if you insist on taking more time to think or read through it all, let me remind you -- this offer isn't going to wait forever. Opportunities like this are rare, and hesitation could mean missing out entirely. So, what's it going to be? Are you ready to grasp the deal of a lifetime, or are you going to let this one slip through your fingers?"`
			`	Howard taps his pen on the stack of documents, clearly impatient but maintaining a polished demeanor.`
			choice
				`	"Okay, okay, I'll sign."`
					goto signed
				`	"I want a lawyer."`
				`	"Actually, let me take a look at the contract."`
					goto "looking through"
			label lawyer
			`	Howard's smile tightens, his tone staying polite but firm. "Of course, you're entitled to seek legal counsel. However, both Syndicate and Megaparsec regulations require that any lawyer must be certified in both Syndicate and Megaparsec regulatory investment law, and pay the customary fees and dues. The required rate for such expertise is 795 credits per page reviewed, plus a base legal fee of 20,000 credits for document analysis. For this agreement, 101 pages, that comes out to 100,295 credits. A small price for peace of mind, wouldn't you say?"`
			`	Howard leans forward, lowering his voice slightly. "If you'd like, I can even recommend someone -- reliable, efficient. What do you say?"`
			choice
				`	"I'll just sign the investment."`
					goto signed
				`	"Thanks, I'd appreciate a recommendation."`
				`	"No thanks, I'll find someone on my own."`
			`	Howard nods with a polished smile, already pulling a sleek datapad from behind the kiosk. With a few swift taps, he hands it to you, the screen lighting up with a carefully curated list of lawyers certified in both Syndicate and Megaparsec regulatory investment law.`
			`	"As it happens, I've taken the liberty of compiling a list for your convenience. These are the best in the business -- every single one fully certified and capable of handling a document of this caliber. Naturally, I'd recommend the first name on the list," he says, tapping the top entry, which is highlighted in green.`
			`	You glance down at the datapad. Each lawyer's availability is color-coded: green for immediate availability, yellow for waitlists stretching a few days, orange for weeks, and red for those not currently accepting new clients. The first lawyer, Howard's recommendation, is the only one highlighted in green.`
			`	"Efficient, thorough, and well-versed in Megaparsec investment structures," Howard continues, his tone smooth. "And, of course, ready to assist immediately. They can review the documents for you today for the modest sum of 100,295 credits. If peace of mind is what you're after, this is your best option. Alternatively, you can always trust in the integrity of this opportunity and move forward now. The choice is yours."`
			choice
				`	"I'll just sign the investment."`
					goto signed
				`	"I guess I'll go with the only available lawyer."`
				`	"I'm backing out and not becoming an investor."`
					decline
			label "only lawyer"
			action
				payment -100295
			`	You select the green-highlighted lawyer on the datapad. Immediately, a floating head materializes on the screen, a sharp-looking individual with neatly combed hair and a cool, measured gaze. Their eyes dart side to side as they rapidly scan the document.`
			`	"Thank you for choosing my services," they say crisply. "This will just take a few minutes. Please hold."`
			`	They reappear a few moments later with a professional yet reassuring expression. "Thank you for waiting. I've reviewed the document, and here are the key points.`
			`	"First, the one million credits you're paying is completely non-refundable upon signing, even if the transaction falls through for any reason. Second, you may be required to sign additional documents or disclosures in the future. Refusing to do so could void the transaction and forfeit your one million credits. No further payments will be required beyond your initial investment. Lastly, standard boilerplate allows the agreement terms to be updated without notice for routine adjustments -- complying with new laws or a bond transfer. At worst, you might be asked to sign an additional disclosure at some point, but nothing that materially impacts your rights or obligations."`
			`	The lawyer's eyes meet yours through the screen. "It's thorough but not unusual. Happy to have been of service." The lawyer's floating head blinks off the datapad.`
			`	Howard, who has been waiting patiently, leans forward with his ever-polished smile. "Glad to see you got that legal review. Always a wise step for an investment of this magnitude," he says in a smooth and encouraging tone. He gestures to the stack of documents on the desk. "So, now that everything's in order, are you ready to sign and secure your investment?"`
			choice
				`	"Yes, I'm ready to sign."`
				`	"No, I don't want to invest in anything, I'm done."`
					decline
			label signed
			`	After you've signed numerous dotted lines, Howard says, "Alright, we have your payment and preliminary signatures. This particular investment is administered by Syndicated Systems as outlined in the agreement, so we'll need to submit this first set of paperwork to their office and then go to <destination> to sign the final documents and conduct a biometric scan at our secure facility. I'll go with you to help finalize the paperwork. Once that is complete, you should immediately start receiving dividend payments."`
				accept
	on accept
		payment -1000000
	on complete
		event "syndicate business 1m investment done" 30
		conversation
			`You land on <destination> and follow Howard's instructions to the biometric scan center. You hand in the first set of paperwork you filled out, and after scanning your fingerprint, retinas, and getting a blood sample, Howard comes over and says, "Excellent, only one last set of paperwork left to sign." He places one more set of documents on the table and taps the stack of papers.`
			`	"New regulations dictate that we inform you that the proceeds of this bond may be used in high risk activities such as strip mining, clearing endangered habitats, or doing business on worlds with alleged human rights violations. All boilerplate language, of course, but you have to disclose every possibility these days." He shrugs.`
			`	He then taps the documents again and says, "This is your final decision and the last set of paperwork. I would also like to disclose that your initial deposit covering the full one million credits is non-refundable. So, as a last formality, would you like to invest in the full investment suite?"`
			choice
				`	"Of course."`
					goto high
				`	"I'm backing out. I can't ethically invest in this."`
			`	Howard nods. "I get it, ethics are important and I respect your decision. Unfortunately, the initial deposit is non-refundable, nothing I can do there. Best of luck finding another investment that suits you."`
				decline
			label high
			action
				"salary: Syndicate Business" = 1000
				log `Made an investment in Megaparsec Incorporated with Howard Vendeur, purchasing a bond for one million credits.`
			`	"Excellent. As a bond owner of Megaparsec Incorporated, you will now receive a daily dividend. I have some work to attend to with our major shareholders, but it was a pleasure doing business with you, Captain."`

event "syndicate business 1m investment done"


mission "Syndicate Business 3"
	name "Visit Howard on <planet>"
	description "Howard wants to tell you about another investment opportunity."
	source
		government "Syndicate"
		not planet "Hephaestus"
	destination "Hephaestus"
	to offer
		has "Syndicate Business 2: done"
		has "event: syndicate business 1m investment done"
		random < 40
		credits > 40000000
	on offer
		conversation
			`After an uneventful trip to the spaceport you return to the <ship> and see a message from Howard, the Megaparsec salesman who sold you a one million credit bond. The message says:`
			branch "rude message"
				has "syndicate business: mean to Howard"
			`	"<first> <last>! My bank contact tells me you've been doing quite well for yourself, and I've come across an even bigger investment opportunity than last time! Meet me at my new office on <planet> (note the address, I've moved up since my promotion). Looking forward to chatting with you!"`
				goto signoff
			label "rude message"
			`	"<first> <last>, my bank contact has informed me that you've achieved modest success. Meanwhile, I've come across an investment opportunity that far surpasses our previous venture. Meet me at my new office on <planet> (note the address, I've moved up since my promotion). I expect our meeting to be prompt and efficient."`
			label signoff
			`		Howard Vendeur`
			`		Investor Relations Manager, Megaparsec Incorporated`
			choice
				`	(Message him back that you're on the way.)`
				`	(Send a message congratulating him on the promotion.)`
				`	(Ignore and delete the message.)`
					decline
			`	You immediately receive an automated response:`
			`	"Dear Valued Contact,`
			`	Thank you for reaching out. I am currently out of the office and will respond to your message as soon as possible.`
			`	For urgent matters, please contact our support team."`
			`		Howard Vendeur`
			`		Investor Relations Manager, Megaparsec Incorporated`
				accept
	on complete
		conversation
			`You land the <ship> on <planet> and make your way to Howard's office at the Megaparsec Incorporated satellite office, which is close to the galactic headquarters of Syndicated Systems.`
			`	You find yourself waiting in a sleek, sterile lobby, with the hum of distant machinery filling the air. The walls are lined with glossy advertisements for the various fast and lightweight ships, aircraft, and hovercraft that Megaparsec is known for, while a polite receptionist assures you that Howard will be with you "shortly," though you suspect that could mean anything from just a few minutes to many hours.`
			choice
				`	(Stand and wait in the lobby.)`
				`	(Take a seat in the lobby.)`
			branch "make 'em wait"
				has "syndicate business: mean to Howard"
			`	Much to your surprise, the wait is brief. Within minutes, Howard emerges with a warm smile, extending a hand as he welcomes you into his office, clearly eager to discuss the next big deal.`
				goto next
			label "make 'em wait"
			`	Hours crawl by as the polished receptionist offers increasingly strained reassurances. Finally, Howard arrives, barely masking his annoyance, and motions for you to follow with a curt nod, clearly viewing you with disdain.`
			label next
			`	The inside of Howard's office is modest yet stylish, with a sleek table, a few ergonomic chairs, and a large screen cycling through market trends. The minimalist decor is designed to impress anybody who comes in, but it's clear that this is more for show than substance.`
			`	Howard gestures for you to take a seat as he settles behind his desk. His demeanor shifts slightly, and he leans forward, lowering his voice as if sharing a secret.`
			`	"You know I've called you here for an incredible investment opportunity," Howard begins. "But before we get into that, I need a small favor. It's nothing too complicated, but there are too many prying eyes here. I'm wrapping up some meetings, but meet me at the spaceport later. I'll fly in my Shuttle as you escort me to Sunracer. I have a few work calls to take on the way, but I'll explain everything once we get there."`
			choice
				`	"Sure thing, I'll see you later."`
					goto next2
				`	"You have two offices?"`
					goto offices
				`	"I don't care about prying eyes! What do you want and what do I get?"`
			`	Howard raises an eyebrow and then waves you off with a chuckle. "All in good time, my friend," he says, leaning back. "It's nothing you can't handle. I'll fill you in once we're safely on Sunracer, and let's just say it'll be worth your while."`
				goto next2
			label offices
			`	Howard leans back with a knowing smile. "Well, 'office' is a bit generous for this place," he admits, gesturing around the room. "This is more of a glorified conference room that I can reserve for investor meetings here on Hephaestus. My real office is back on Sunracer, where the serious deals happen. You'll see what I mean when we get there."`
			choice
				`	"Can't wait."`
					goto next2
				`	"Is that a glorified conference room too?"`
			`	Howard's smile falters slightly. He forces a light chuckle, though the tension is noticeable. "Well, if I'm being honest, the Sunracer office is... also technically reservable," he admits, rubbing his neck and looking almost pained. "But just as nice! And, uh... look, my real office is technically a cubicle, but compared to the kiosk last time we met? It's a big step up." He shrugs, trying to brush it off. "But hey, we don't need fancy spaces to make serious deals. Let's get back on track, yeah?" He clears his throat.`
			choice
				`	"Absolutely."`
					goto next2
				`	"Howard, a promotion's a big deal. The office doesn't matter - your work speaks for itself."`
					goto kindy
				`	"Howard, your cubicle is still pathetic. Now, let's get back on track."`
			action
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" ++
			`	Howard flinches, his jaw tightening for a moment before he forces a thin smile. "Pathetic or not, it gets the job done," he says quietly, avoiding your gaze as he fidgets with a paperweight on his desk. "Spaceport. Later." His voice is more clipped now, and he doesn't wait for a response before focusing on his work calls, shutting you out entirely.`
				decline
			label kindy
			action
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" --
			`	"Thanks, that means a lot. Now, I've got to get back to work."`
			label next2
			`	Howard's attention shifts away from you as he begins taking a series of work calls, his tone changing seamlessly from charming to authoritative as he negotiates and makes deals. He mouths two words to you: "Spaceport... later..." It's clear that, for now, Howard is finished with you and you'll get no more information.`


mission "Syndicate Business 4"
	name "Escort Howard to <planet>"
	description "Escort Howard from Megaparsec Inc. to <planet> to learn what favor is needed in exchange for an investment opportunity."
	source "Hephaestus"
	to offer
		has "Syndicate Business 3: done"
	destination "Sunracer"
	on offer
		conversation
			`You meet Howard at the spaceport. He's standing on a nearby landing pad next to his Shuttle, dressed sharply but looking a bit hurried. He gives you a quick nod as you approach.`
			`	"Good to see you're on time," Howard says, glancing at his antique wristwatch. "We've got a lot of ground - or space - to cover." Howard briefly looks at the <ship>. "Your ship ought to go fast enough, I suppose. I'll be tied up in calls for most of the trip, but once we're back at the office, we can talk." He starts toward his Shuttle's ramp, already shifting his attention back to his wristwatch. "Let's get moving."`
				launch
	npc accompany save
		government "Syndicate"
		personality escort timid
		ship "Shuttle" "Gallant Knight"
		on kill
			dialog "You watch as Howard's Shuttle explodes into a cloud of debris along with any hope of an investment opportunity."
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality harvests nemesis plunders staying
			confusion 40
		system destination
		fleet
			names "pirate"
			variant
				"Wasp" 3
			variant
				"Quicksilver"

	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality harvests nemesis plunders
			confusion 40
		system destination
		fleet
			names "pirate"
			variant
				"Wasp" 3
			variant
				"Quicksilver"

	on complete
		conversation
			`As soon as you land, you see a message from Howard:`
			`	"<first> <last>! Looks like I beat you landing on <planet>! Meet me at my office near the spaceport to talk further. (Again, note the address change.)"`
			`		Howard Vendeur`
			`		Investor Relations Manager, Megaparsec Incorporated`


mission "Syndicate Business 5"
	name "Disable a Marauder ship in <waypoints>"
	description "Howard wants you to disable a Marauder ship in exchange for an investment opportunity."
	to offer
		has "Syndicate Business 4: done"
	source "Sunracer"
	waypoint "Oblate"
	destination "Sunracer"
	on offer
		conversation
			`Even amidst the mix of landing pads, hangars, and cranes, it's hard to miss the Megaparsec corporate office. After a short walk, you reach the towering building. The lobby is sleek and modern, filled with the quiet hum of efficiency. To your surprise the receptionist waves you on and you take an elevator up to the eighth floor, where Howard awaits.`
			`	The office reminds you of the one you were in on Hephaestus, though more understated. Howard's office is a modest yet modern space, featuring a smart desk, a few sleek chairs, and large windows overlooking the busy shipyards. You can't help noticing that, like the Hephaestus office, the minimalist decor hints more at style than substance.`
			`	"Glad you could make it," Howard says, extending his hand. "Apologies for the inconvenience, but it's better to discuss these matters away from potentially 'interested' parties." He motions for you to join him at one of the few sleek chairs in the center of the room.`
			choice
				`	(Take a seat.)`
				`	(Remain standing.)`
					goto shrug
			`	Howard sits beside you in an oddly intimate expression.`
				goto familiar
			label shrug
			`	Howard shrugs and takes a seat anyway.`
			label familiar
			`	Once settled, he leans back in his chair and gives you a serious look. "Tell me," he says, "are you familiar with Marauder ships?"`
			choice
				`	"Yes, of course."`
					goto ask
				`	"No, I can't say I am."`
			`	Howard raises an eyebrow. "Marauder ships are nasty pieces of work," he explains. "They're ships with numerous modifications - mostly with combat in mind. More shields, weapons, engines, and outfit space, with enough firepower to tear through a lot of defenses before anyone knows what hit them. They're often used by rogue groups that operate outside the law, preying on vulnerable targets."`
			label ask
			`	Howard pauses for a moment before continuing. "We at Megaparsec are interested in getting our hands on one. We want to study its design, see what makes it tick. We've received word that a Marauder ship was recently spotted in Oblate. I need you to track it down and disable it. Once it's crippled, our recovery team will handle the rest."`
			branch "mean look"
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" > 0
			`	He gives you a deliberate look. "Does that sound like a plan?"`
				goto "end of look"
			label "mean look"
			`	He gives you a pointed look. "Think you can handle that?"`
			label "end of look"
			choice
				`	"You got it."`
					goto accepting
				`	"What do you need me for? This sounds like something that the Syndicate could do themselves."`
				`	"No way, I'm done here."`
					decline
			`	Howard shifts a bit in his seat as he considers your question. "Normally we'd contract Lightspeed Logistics for this sort of job. They've got the expertise and resources to handle something like this cleanly." He pauses, choosing his words carefully. "But they lack the discretion. This particular Marauder ship belongs to a pirate who ran in the same circles as a number of Lightspeed contractors. If we sent them in, I'm concerned they might try to study the ship themselves, tip off the pirate, or worse, tip off others in the Syndicate that Megaparsec is making a move.`
			`	"That's where you come in. You're outside the usual network, and that gives us a layer of security. Take this job, and it stays between us. No one else needs to know Megaparsec is involved."`
			choice
				`	"Alright, I'm in."`
					goto accepting
				`	"And where does that promised investment opportunity fit in?"`
					goto "investing opportunity"
				`	"I'm still not interested."`
					decline
			label "investing opportunity"
			`	Howard's face brightens at the mention of the investment. "Ah, yes, the opportunity. It's much larger than the last deal you were part of, but the returns are still very competitive. You'll need at least ten or maybe twelve million credits to get in on this one."`
			`	He leans forward. "We're looking to fund a refueling station expansion at our logistics hub on Crossroads. We're between an aggressive option, a more conventional expansion, and a more conservative one."`
			`	Howard pauses, gauging your reaction before continuing. "All of the options have their merits, though investors usually prefer the one with the most returns. But the choice is yours if you're in. I'll make sure you get the full details once we're done with this little favor in Oblate."`
			choice
				`	"Alright, I'm in. Let's discuss it more after Oblate."`
					goto accepting
				`	"Why would a shipyard have refueling stations?"`
				`	"None of those options sound good to me. I'm out."`
					decline
			`	Howard clearly enjoys the opportunity to explain. "Megaparsec's shipyards here on Sunracer are our crown jewel, building nearly every one of our ships as well as our high performance aircraft and hovercraft. You cannot imagine the logistics required to get the countless capacitors and microchips from Tinker, Delta V's plasma engines from Solace - heck, we have a dedicated logistics hangar on Crossroads just for shipping the Quicksilver's Particle Cannons! Don't even get me started on the Mantas! Ada's a long ways away, but we sure love Lovelace Labs' products...`
			`	"Ahem. All that to say, refueling stations, while few, are part of our larger strategy in vertical integration. Refueling stations are the heart of our logistics network for bringing all the parts we need here and for getting various vehicles out of here to be sold across the Republic.`
			`	"There are, of course, ancillary benefits as well. For R&D, we can test the impact of different fuel mixtures on our ships prior to entering the market. For partnerships, we can include fueling rights in large-scale sales agreements with major corporations or government fleets. At our largest logistics hubs, the economies of scale even allow us to competitively offer refueling services solely to these high-volume operators, giving us a diversified revenue stream.`
			`	"In fact, the ancillary benefits are largely why there's such discretion in how the expansion will go. The aggressive and conservative fueling options both offer R&D and partnership benefits that are more than the project's direct returns."`
			choice
				`	"That makes sense. Let's discuss the deal more after Oblate."`
				`	"Thanks for the overview, but I'm still not interested. I'm out."`
					decline
			label accepting
			`	Howard nods with approval. "Excellent. The Marauder ship was last seen near Oblate, in the outer rim of that system. It's likely to be well armed, so stay sharp. Once you've disabled it, head back here and I'll make sure you're properly compensated."`
			branch "blew up golden"
				has "syndicate business: golden jewel dead"
			`	He cracks a smile. "I remember the first time we met you left that Vanguard alive. Same deal here, but disable the Marauder. Hopefully that Vanguard's not still around.`
				goto ending
			label "blew up golden"
			`	He leans in slightly, lowering his voice. "Just be careful. We don't want to destroy the ship. Cripple it so we can study it, but don't blow it into oblivion like you did that Vanguard when we first met.`
			label ending
			`	"Well, that's all I have for you. Goodbye and good luck!"`
				accept

	on enter "Moktar"
		"reputation: Independent (Killable)" = -1000
	npc
		government "Independent (Killable)"
		personality heroic staying vindictive
			confusion 20
		system "Moktar"
		ship "Vanguard" "Golden Jewel"
		to despawn
			has "syndicate business: golden jewel dead"
		on encounter
			conversation
				`When you enter Moktar, your sensors detect the same pirate Vanguard from when you first rescued Howard. Your ship is immediately hailed, and the pirate opens communication.`
				`	"I should have destroyed you when I had the chance. Prepare to meet your end!"`
				choice
					`	"Maybe I should have destroyed you!"`
					`	"Uhhh... who are you again?"`
						goto whomst
				`	"Argh, you slithering, spineless snake! I'll tear your ship apart piece by piece!"`
					goto power
				label whomst
				`	"Bah, you banal, bumbling baboon! Prepare to meet your doom!"`
				label power
				`	You can't help feeling a sense of deja vu as the Vanguard's engines roar to life and you see a baker's half-dozen guns take aim at your ship, ready to fire.`
		on kill
			set "syndicate business: golden jewel dead"
			dialog "The crew of the Golden Jewel are no more. You think you can make out the pirate captain drifting in space nearby."

	on enter "Oblate"
		"reputation: Independent (Killable)" = -1000
	npc disable save
		government "Independent (Killable)"
		personality heroic marked staying vindictive
			confusion 20
		system "Oblate"
		ship "Marauder Quicksilver (Engines) (Safe)" "Pilgrim Shadow"
		on disable
			conversation
				`The ship has been disabled. You receive a message from Howard almost immediately:`
				`	"<first> <last>, you've done it again! Meet me on <destination> to talk about this victory."`
				`		Howard Vendeur`
				`		Investor Relations Manager, Megaparsec Incorporated`
		on kill
			"reputation: Independent (Killable)" = 0
			conversation
				`The ship has been destroyed. Like before, you almost immediately receive a message from Howard:`
				`	"What have you done? I said disable the ship! You've completely destroyed my plans, cost us millions, and ruined any chance of salvaging this operation - how could you possibly mess this up so badly? Don't come back, we're done."`
				`		Howard Vendeur`
				`		Investor Relations Manager, Megaparsec Incorporated`
	on complete
		"reputation: Independent (Killable)" = 0
		event "syndicate business 10m investment done" 180
		payment 25000
		conversation
			`You arrive back on Sunracer to a spaceport buzzing with activity. You make your way through the bustling shipyard toward the towering Megaparsec building. Entering the lobby, the receptionist gives you a nod, and you quickly ascend to the eighth floor.`
			`	Howard greets you with a smile as you step into his office. The room is as you left it - modern, modest, and with a clear view of the shipyards below. "Welcome back," he says, gesturing for you to take a seat. "I take it the job in Oblate went smoothly?"`
			choice
				`	"Of course."`
					goto next1
				`	"Didn't you message me as soon as I did it?"`
			`	"True enough, just making conversation," he says with a grin. "The important thing is that the job's done. Now, let's get down to business.`
			label next1
			`	"Our recovery team is already retrieving the ship as we speak. You've done well. Here's a payment for that favor, 25,000 credits."`
			choice
				`	"Thanks."`
					goto "investment opps"
				`	"25,000?! You must have forgotten a zero there, you cheapskate!"`
					goto cheapskate
				`	"I appreciate the offer, but there's no need for payment this time. Consider it purely a favor - I'm happy to help."`
			action
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" --
				payment -25000
			`	"That's generous of you, and I appreciate it.`
				goto "investment opps"
			label cheapskate
			`	"I see... well, let's not make this more difficult than it needs to be," he says in a clipped tone. "I'll transfer another 175,000 credits now to make it an even 200,000. But in the future, I'd appreciate it if you would remember the privilege you have of working with Megaparsec Incorporated.`
			action
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" ++
				payment 175000
			label "investment opps"
			`	"Now, let's talk about that investment opportunity."`
			`	Howard pulls up a holographic display on the digital screen behind him. Various charts and projections flash by. "Ready for the pitch?"`
			choice
				`	"You know it."`
				`	"Of course."`
			`	"Here's what we're looking at. Megaparsec Incorporated is expanding a refueling station on Crossroads, and we're likely going to go with a conventional expansion. But don't let the term 'conventional' fool you, because Megaparsec rarely expands its refueling stations - this is the first time in over a decade. When we do, it's because we've identified a strategic location that will skyrocket profits. These opportunities are as rare as they come, and most investors never even hear about them. But you've proven yourself, and that's why you're getting a seat at the table."`
			`	He pauses, letting the weight of his words sink in. "Getting in on this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance. We're talking about a key hub on a high-traffic trade route, with a captive market of ships desperate for fuel. The returns will be solid... and dependable. Opportunities like this don't just come around, and when they do, they go fast."`
			choice
				`	"Okay."`
				`	"Thanks, but I'll be speeding away from this investment."`
					decline
			branch upcharge
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" > 0
			`	"Excellent. The price for this investment is ten million credits for a solid 5400 credit per day return. Don't worry about pulling out your wallet just yet - I've pulled a few strings with our friends at the bank. They're willing to structure a loan for you through our Finance Division, no upfront payment needed. You'll just need to sign a few documents to get things moving."`
			`	He slides a document over to you, with a sleek pen ready for your signature. "Just sign this first document for the loan and then we can talk through the rest of the documents before signing."`
			choice
				`	"Sounds good."`
					goto nextynice
				`	"I'm done with these deals, I'm leaving."`
					decline
			label upcharge
			`	Howard's tone carries a hint of impatience. "Alright then. The price for this investment is eleven million credits for a 5400 credit per day return. I've managed to arrange a loan through the bank and our Finance Division, so you won't need to come up with the cash immediately. Just sign these documents to formalize the arrangement."`
			`	He pushes a document over to you, with a very fancy pen ready for your signature. "Just sign this first document for the loan and then we can talk through the rest of the documents before signing."`
			choice
				`	"Sounds good."`
					goto nextymean
				`	"I'm done with these deals, I'm leaving."`
					decline
			label nextynice
			action
				debt 10000000
					interest 0.08
					term 3650
			`	He takes the document from you and you see the loan terms on the screen behind him: 10M credits, 10 years, 34% rate.`
				goto nexty
			label nextymean
			action
				debt 11000000
					interest 0.10
					term 3650
			`	He snatches the document from you with a wicked smile and you see the loan terms on the screen behind him: 11M credits, 10 years, 44% rate.`
			label nexty
			`	Howard leans back in his chair. "Well done. You're now part of a very select group, one that's about to see some significant returns. As I mentioned, we're leaning towards a conventional expansion for the refueling station on Crossroads. It's a strategic move and it'll serve the steady stream of ships passing through, locking in profits for years to come of about 5400 credits a day, or around 20% a year."`
			`	He watches you closely, gauging your reaction. "Of course, this is just the standard approach. There's always room to tweak the plan."`
			`	Howard pauses, waiting to see if you're interested in taking the conversation further.`
			choice
				`	"Sounds like a good plan to me."`
					goto "chose plan a"
				`	"What would it take to boost profits even more?"`
					goto "plan b"
				`	"What if I have concerns about the environmental impact?"`
					goto "plan c"
			label "plan a"
			`	"The conventional expansion is anything but. We'd work with licensed suppliers and build it by the book. Of course, Crossroads is already a radioactive wasteland of sandstorms, so the book's pretty light, all things considered. It's a solid investment with good returns and minimal risk. Nothing too flashy, but reliable returns of about 5400 credits a day, or around 20% a year."`
			choice
				`	"Sounds like a good plan to me."`
					goto "chose plan a"
				`	"What would it take to boost profits even more?"`
					goto "plan b"
					to display
						not "heardplanb"
				`	"And if I have concerns about the environmental impact?"`
					goto "plan c"
					to display
						not "heardplanc"
				`	"Could you remind me about the unregulated option?"`
					goto "plan b"
					to display
						has "heardplanb"
				`	"Explain the eco-friendly choice once more."`
					goto "plan c"
					to display
						has "heardplanc"
			label "plan b"
			`	"We could tap into some unregulated fuel sources. No oversight, no regulations. The fuel's cheaper and abundant, but it's volatile - one wrong move, and it's a disaster waiting to happen. The profits, though, are through the roof. For the possible cost of a few lives and some bad PR, we can boost returns to around 8200 credits a day, or about 30% a year."`
			action
				set "heardplanb"
			choice
				`	"Bring on the profits, this unregulated option is the one for me."`
					goto "chose plan b"
				`	"Tell me about the conventional expansion again."`
					goto "plan a"
				`	"And if I have concerns about the environmental impact?"`
					goto "plan c"
					to display
						not "heardplanc"
				`	"Explain the eco-friendly choice once more."`
					goto "plan c"
					to display
						has "heardplanc"
			label "plan c"
			`	"There's also the eco-friendly route. We'd invest in green energy technologies and refining processes that minimize environmental impact and implement best-in-class workplace safety protocols. It's the most expensive option, and it'll slow our expansion, but it would reduce our environmental liabilities and might give us some goodwill. Easily the worst returns with around 4000 credits a day expected, or just around 15% a year."`
			action
				set "heardplanc"
			choice
				`	"This environmental and safety focused option is the one for me."`
					goto "chose plan c"
				`	"Tell me about the conventional expansion again."`
					goto "plan a"
				`	"What would it take to boost profits even more?"`
					goto "plan b"
					to display
						not "heardplanb"
				`	"Could you remind me about the unregulated option?"`
					goto "plan b"
					to display
						has "heardplanb"
			label "chose plan a"
			action
				"salary: Syndicate Business" += 5400
				set "Syndicate Business expansion 10m neutral"
				log "Was able to make another investment with Megaparsec, this time ten million credits, after disabling a Marauder for Howard. Out of three investment options, ended up choosing the conventional approach."
			`	"Excellent choice. The conventional expansion is a safe bet with solid returns. It's not the flashiest option, but the steady stream of ships passing through Crossroads will ensure consistent profits. The only drawback is that it won't make headlines - but it'll keep the credits flowing smoothly."`
				goto ending
			label "chose plan b"
			action
				"salary: Syndicate Business" += 8200
				set "Syndicate Business expansion 10m evil"
				log "Was able to make another investment with Megaparsec, this time ten million credits, after disabling a Marauder for Howard. Out of three investment options, ended up choosing the profitable approach."
			`	"Well done. The unregulated option is bold and ambitious - exactly the kind of move the Syndicate prizes. The volatility of this fuel isn't for the faint of heart, but some bad PR is well worth the profits and potential earnings we'll achieve. High risk often means high reward."`
				goto ending
			label "chose plan c"
			action
				"salary: Syndicate Business" += 4000
				set "Syndicate Business expansion 10m good"
				log "Was able to make another investment with Megaparsec, this time ten million credits, after disabling a Marauder for Howard. Out of three investment options, ended up choosing the eco-friendly approach."
			`	"An admirable decision. The eco-friendly route won't make the most credits, but it's a forward-thinking investment. It could pay off in other ways, like reduced turnover and environmental liabilities. Objectively the worst investment from a returns perspective, but I suppose you value other things more."`
			label ending
			`	"Alright, now that we've settled on your investment, let's get the rest of the paperwork squared away." He slides a stack of documents across the desk. "These cover the remaining loan terms, the investment agreement, and the usual legal fine print. Nothing too complicated, just a few signatures to make it all official." He hands you the same sleek pen from earlier, his expression all business. "Once this is done, you'll be a stakeholder in one of Megaparsec's most promising expansions."`
			choice
				`	(Sign the paperwork.)`
			`	With the last signature in place, Howard gives you a nod of approval. "Congratulations. You've made a smart move today. I'll keep you in mind for future investment opportunities. Who knows, maybe I'll need another Marauder-related favor down the line." He gives you a wink and stands, offering his hand. "Until next time, we'll keep in touch."`
			`	After that final goodbye, you leave Howard's office, the quiet hum of the corporate floor giving way to the loud clanging of Sunracer's bustling shipyards and spaceport as you head back to the <ship>.`
			action
				clear "heardplanb"
				clear "heardplanc"

event "syndicate business 10m investment done"


mission "Syndicate Business 5.1 A 10m Expansion Update"
	landing
	to offer
		has "Syndicate Business 5: done"
		has "event: syndicate business 10m investment done"
		or
			has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m good"
			has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m neutral"
			has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m evil"
	source
		near Ruchbah 0 20
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you are landing your <model>, you see a message from Howard, the Megaparsec salesman who sold you two investments. The message says:`
			branch "mean opening"
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" > 0
			`	"Hey <first>,`
			`		"I hope all is well. I'm excited to send you this interim Megaparsec report! I'm sharing because it's the first one with your investment included - check out Section 3, Part C, Paragraph 6 for the details.`
				goto "opening choice"
			label "mean opening"
			`	"Captain <first> <last>,`
			`		"Here's the interim Megaparsec report, sent because your investment is included for the first time. You can find the relevant information in Section 3, Part C, Paragraph 6.`
			label "opening choice"
			branch "good choice"
				has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m good"
			branch "evil choice"
				has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m evil"
			# neutral
			`		"Nothing major to flag, just routine updates. Steady progress and business as usual. Just like I predicted, we're seeing some solid returns that aren't making headlines. And the higher ups like the consistency - keeps me in their good graces.`
				goto "howard bye"
			label "good choice"
			`		"Returns are about what we projected, a little slow, but here's the kicker: we're saving a chunk of provisions for expected environmental lawsuits and employee morale at the expansion is through the roof. Looks like we're building more than just profits. My bosses are thrilled - they think I'm working magic here.`
				goto "howard bye"
			label "evil choice"
			`		"There was a... noteworthy incident involving some employees, so it might draw more attention than we'd like. Nothing that'll derail the returns, though, just some bad press to manage. Everything's still on track, and either way, no one can argue with the numbers.`
			label "howard bye"
			branch "already rich"
				"credits" >= 300000000
			`		"Anyway, here's the mentioned area of that report. I have another investment opportunity coming up, but if my bank contact is correct you have some hustling to do if you want in. Maybe three or four hundred million credits ought to do it. Keep in touch."`
				goto signoff
			label "already rich"
			`		"Anyway, here's the mentioned area of that report. As long as you stay rich I'll have another investment opportunity for you soon. Keep in touch."`
			label signoff
			`			Howard Vendeur`
			`			Investor Relations Manager, Megaparsec Incorporated`
			choice
				`	(Open Section 3, Part C, Paragraph 6 of the attached report.)`
					goto "section marked"
				`	(Take a look at the main report.)`
				`	(Close the message.)`
					decline
			# This report has 2 purposes beyond being a peek behind the curtain of Megaparsec's operations.
			# 1. This should be dull and impersonal enough that a reader could easily gloss over Megaparsec's morally questionable actions listed in the report and to be a stark contrast to the human aspect of the other culture mission.
			# 2. This should be long enough that Megaparsec feels overwhelming in size and scope, and that the player's actions/investments feels like a footnote in comparison.

			`	Megaparsec Incorporated is a leading multi-sector company specializing in shipbuilding, performance vehicles, industrial solutions and exacting systems, and financial services. With a commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, we aim to provide top-tier products and services across various markets. Our workforce comprises millions of skilled employees across the Republic. Established over 60 years ago in 2953, Megaparsec has quickly positioned itself as a key player in the aerospace and transportation industries. References to "Megaparsec Inc.," the "Company," "we," "our," and "us" in this report refer to Megaparsec Incorporated and its consolidated subsidiaries.`
			`	Our operations are organized into four distinct operating segments: Megaparsec Shipyards, Megaparsec Performance Vehicles, Megaparsec Industrial & Systems, which represent our manufacturing businesses, and Megaparsec Finance, which represents our finance business. Our business segments include operations that are unincorporated divisions of Megaparsec Inc. and others that are separately incorporated subsidiaries. Public sector and other non-corporate activities are not required to be disclosed in interim financial reports, and as such are not covered within this report. Each segment plays a crucial role in driving our growth and profitability, and a description of the business of each of our segments is set forth below. Financial performance and information by segment can be found in Note 5 of the Consolidated Financial Statements on pages 20 through 22 of this report. Readers are encouraged to review this information in conjunction with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" on pages 10 through 18.`
			choice
				`	(Turn to Section 3, Part C, Paragraph 6 that Howard highlighted earlier.)`
					goto "section marked"
				`	(Try to get through the report's overview of business segments.)`
				`	(That's enough financial reports for one day.)`
					decline
			`	Megaparsec Shipyards Segment`
			`		Megaparsec Shipyards is at the forefront of advanced shipbuilding, focusing on designing and constructing lightweight, high-performance vessels for commercial and military applications. Megaparsec Shipyards is a leading shipyard based on unit sales with two principal lines of business: spacecraft sales and aftermarket services. Spacecraft sales include a diverse portfolio of ships such as the Quicksilver, Bounder, Manta, and Splinter, as well as the Hauler and Hauler II designs. Aftermarket services include outfitting, parts, maintenance, inspection and repair services. Our shipyards leverage cutting-edge technology and innovative design principles to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. Revenue in this segment accounted for approximately 45% of our total revenue in the last fiscal year, showcasing our strong market position.`
			`		Megaparsec Shipyards' aggressive cost-cutting measures and streamlined workplace safety protocols allow us to maintain superior margins. We maintain a close relationship with Parliament to better anticipate and shape legislative actions to be beneficial to the Company.`
			`		Megaparsec Shipyards markets its products galaxy-wide through its own sales force, as well as through a network of authorized independent sales representatives, depending upon the product line. Megaparsec Shipyards has several competitors within the Syndicate and across Republic space in various market segments. Megaparsec Shipyards' spacecraft compete with other spacecraft that vary in size, speed, range, capacity and handling characteristics on the basis of price, product quality and reliability, product support and reputation.`
			choice
				`	(Turn to Section 3, Part C, Paragraph 6 that Howard highlighted earlier.)`
					goto "section marked"
				`	(Continue through the report to the Megaparsec Performance Vehicles Segment.)`
				`	(Now that's definitely enough financial report for one day.)`
					decline
			`	Megaparsec Performance Vehicles Segment`
			`		Megaparsec Performance Vehicles is one of the leading suppliers of military and commercial aviation and repulsor solutions in all of Syndicate and Republic space. This segment includes Megaparsec jets, racing hovercraft, utility vehicles, and various repulsor solutions tailored for personal, commercial, and military use. Through its commercial business, Megaparsec Performance Vehicles is a leading supplier of commercially certified aviation and hovercraft support to corporate, on-world petroleum exploration and development, utility, charter, police, fire, rescue, and emergency medical hovercraft operators. Our commitment to the development of high-performance, lightweight vehicles that maximize efficiency and agility while delivering superior speed and operational excellence drives innovation within this segment, allowing us to capture a growing market of discerning consumers. Revenues from this segment contributed approximately 30% of our total revenue, reflecting our success in attracting new customers.`
			`		For both its military programs and its commercial products, Megaparsec Performance Vehicles provides post-sale support and service for its installed base of millions of vehicles. This is accomplished through a network of Megaparsec Performance Vehicles-owned service sites, service and parts facilities co-located with Megaparsec Shipyards, thousands of independent service centers and sixteen logistics hubs that are located across the galaxy. Collectively, these service sites offer a complete range of logistics support, including parts, support equipment, technical data, training devices, pilot and maintenance training, component repair and overhaul, engine repair and overhaul, aircraft modifications, aircraft customizing, accessory manufacturing, contractor maintenance, field service and product support engineering.`
			`		Megaparsec is able to leverage its specialization to control a majority of several of the aforementioned markets with relatively inelastic demand, providing significantly higher margins in the police, fire, rescue, and emergency medical segments.`
			`		Megaparsec Performance Vehicles competes against a number of competitors based in the Syndicate and the Republic for its performance vehicles business, and its parts and support business competes against numerous other companies. Competition is based primarily on price, product quality and reliability, product support, performance, and reputation.`
			choice
				`	(Turn to Section 3, Part C, Paragraph 6 that Howard highlighted earlier.)`
					goto "section marked"
				`	(Continue through the report to the Megaparsec Industrial & Systems Segment.)`
				`	(Half of the business segments is enough.)`
					decline
			`	Megaparsec Industrial and Systems Segment`
			`		Megaparsec Industrial and Systems focuses on providing comprehensive solutions for various industries, including energy, construction, and logistics. We manufacture industrial equipment, fuel systems, functional components, and other systems designed to enhance productivity and reduce operational costs. This segment also covers miscellaneous lines such as Megaparsec's external refueling sales, logistics services, mission support, and others. This segment has seen steady growth, contributing around 20% of our overall revenue as we continue to expand our market presence and capitalize on emerging opportunities.`
			`		Our strategic partnerships with external regions that have favorable regulatory environments help minimize disruption from labor or environmental concerns, enabling us to maximize productivity at the lowest possible cost.`
			`		Our Industrial and Systems Segment has a number of competitors across the galaxy. Competition typically is based on a number of factors including price, product quality and reliability, prior experience, and available manufacturing capacity.`
			choice
				`	(Turn to Section 3, Part C, Paragraph 6 that Howard highlighted earlier.)`
					goto "section marked"
				`	(Finish the business segment overview with Megaparsec Finance.)`
				`	(Finally close this report.)`
					decline
			`	Megaparsec Finance Segment`
			`		Megaparsec Finance offers a range of financial services, including investment and leasing solutions tailored to the needs of our customers across all segments of the marketplace. This division supports our operational growth by providing essential capital and financial expertise, allowing us to navigate market fluctuations effectively. The Finance segment accounted for about 5% of our total revenue, highlighting our commitment to delivering integrated financial solutions.`
			`		Megaparsec Finance maximizes returns by strategically navigating complex financial regulations and directly engaging with investors and customers. By leveraging aggressive financial instruments while staying within legal boundaries, we ensure strong profits with minimal regulatory interference.`
			`		The commercial finance business traditionally is extremely competitive. Our Finance segment is subject to competition from various types of financing institutions, including banks, leasing companies, commercial finance companies and finance operations of equipment vendors. Competition within the commercial finance industry primarily is focused on price, term, structure and service.`
			`		Megaparsec's diverse portfolio and commitment to innovation position us well for future growth, and we remain dedicated to enhancing value for our shareholders while serving our customers' needs.`
			`	You've finally gotten through the report's opening statements. That's more than enough of the main report to go through.`
			choice
				`	(Turn to Section 3, Part C, Paragraph 6 that Howard highlighted earlier.)`
				`	(Close the report now that you've gone through the main overview.)`
					decline
			label "section marked"
			`	You open the attached report to the area indicated by Howard:`
			branch "good choice sec 2"
				has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m good"
			branch "evil choice sec 2"
				has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m evil"
			# neutral 2
			`	Crossroads refueling station investments continue to meet projections, with healthy margins and steady returns. Following several modest investments in operational efficiency, returns are tracking slightly above baseline forecasts, ensuring a consistent annualized return to investors. The station's strategic position on the centrally located planet continues to generate strong traffic, further solidifying its long-term profitability.`
				goto "report end"
			label "good choice sec 2"
			`	Investment returns from the Crossroads refueling station are currently below comparable benchmarks. However, environmental-related legal actions have been significantly lower than anticipated, resulting in reduced provisions for legal fees. Additionally, localized employee turnover has halved during this period, contributing to enhanced operational stability and providing a favorable outlook for the coming quarters.`
				goto "report end"
			label "evil choice sec 2"
			`	A serious accident at the Crossroads refueling station resulted in injuries to two dozen employees and one fatality. While the legal ramifications are being addressed, the station's outsized returns have more than compensated for the legal fees incurred due to this unfortunate and unpredictable occurrence. Financial projections remain strong, with returns far exceeding expectations.`
			label "report end"
			`	That marks the end of where the report covers your investment.`
				decline


mission "Syndicate Business 5.1 B 10m Expansion Crossroads Update"
	to offer
		has "Syndicate Business 5: done"
		has "event: syndicate business 10m investment done"
		or
			has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m good"
			has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m neutral"
			has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m evil"
		random < 85
	source "Crossroads"
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you are walking around the low stone buildings of the spaceport, you remember that you invested in a refueling station expansion at Megaparsec's logistics hub on Crossroads.`
			choice
				`	(Check it out.)`
				`	(Maybe later.)`
					defer
				`	(Skip visiting the refueling station.)`
					decline
			`	You make your way towards the refueling station on a bulky vehicle closed off from the radioactive air. Nevertheless, you still feel a faint metallic taste in the back of your throat as you see blue and purple tumbleweeds drift with the sand out the window. Eventually you pull up to the depot and refueling station.`
			`	The structure looms in front of you - sleek, modular, and distinctly industrial. The station is built for efficient refueling, with segmented docking areas for various freighter sizes, fuel lines tangled overhead like mechanical vines snaking down to heavy looking hoses attached to repulsors, and a series of elevated walkways crisscrossing the area.`
			choice
				`	(Get out of the bulky vehicle.)`
				`	(Turn around and go back to your ship.)`
					decline
			`	While still outside the main area, you exit the vehicle and hear the fueling systems hum, punctuated by the occasional clicks of the fuel pumps. There's a faint sulfuric tang in the air intermixed with the radioactive metallic dust. Large screens display fuel prices and tank levels, while cargo repulsors zip around, transporting supplies to waiting ships. You begin to make your way through narrow steps and low guardrails leading up to a platform overlooking the main fueling bay.`
			branch "good choice"
				has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m good"
			branch "evil choice"
				has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m evil"
			# neutral
			`	As you start to approach the platform, you notice a worker sitting on the edge of a low retaining wall, just outside the main operation zone. He's leaned back, catching his breath and wiping the sweat from his brow. The worker looks up as you near, his expression neutral but open, perhaps surprised to see someone from management on-site. His break seems brief, but he's got a minute or two before heading back to work - giving you the option to engage in conversation or simply move on.`
				goto "hello there"
			label "good choice"
			`	As your approach to the platform begins, you notice a worker sitting on the edge of a low retaining wall, just outside the bustling refueling zone. He's leaned back with a relaxed smile on his face as he whistles a cheerful tune, clearly enjoying a well-earned break. The worker's uniform is crisp, and his overall demeanor suggests high morale. He glances up as you near, offering a friendly nod, clearly at ease. With a few minutes left in his break, you have the chance to strike up a conversation or continue on your way.`
				goto "hello there"
			label "evil choice"
			`	As you start your approach towards the platform, you notice a worker sitting on the edge of a low retaining wall, staring at a small memorial plaque embedded in the ground just outside the main refueling zone. Next to the plaque, two small, unmarked rocks have been carefully placed side by side.`
			`	The worker seems lost in thought, occasionally wiping the sweat from his brow. He shifts slightly as you draw nearer, offering a subtle nod of acknowledgment, giving you the chance to either continue on or start a conversation with him. The reasons behind the plaque and the stones remain unclear, though their presence feels somber. You think back to Howard's message about your aggressive investment choice causing a "noteworthy incident."`
			label "hello there"
			choice
				`	(Say hello.)`
				`	(Let the moment pass and continue on towards the platform.)`
					goto "facility tour"
			branch "good choice 2"
				has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m good"
			branch "evil choice 2"
				has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m evil"
			# neutral 2
			`	You decide to strike up a conversation, and after a brief exchange, the worker relaxes when you clarify that you're not from management. His face softens as he shares his story. He grew up poor in the Dirt Belt, and came to Crossroads hoping for something better.`
			`	"I've been working hard, trying to give my kid a life I didn't have."`
			`	He shrugs as he says, "Sure, the hours are long and it's tough sometimes, but it beats what you hear about some Syndicate jobs - unsafe, grueling work. At least here, the work's steady and it puts food on the table. That's more than I ever had growing up in the Dirt Belt." He checks the time and stands, dusting off his uniform.`
			`	"Thanks for the chat, but I've got a long night ahead. It's my kid's birthday, and I'm putting in extra hours so I can get them a cake. They're gonna love it."`
			`	With a tired but determined smile, he heads back to work, leaving you with a glimpse of the reality behind the "conventional" station's daily grind.`
				goto "hello there 2"
			label "good choice 2"
			`	You decide to strike up a conversation, and as you exchange pleasantries, the worker mentions how he grew up in the Dirt Belt. He talks about how tough life was back then, scraping by with whatever work he could find before coming to Crossroads in search of something better.`
			`	"I've been incredibly lucky," he says with a genuine smile. "This job - good pay, safe working conditions, benefits for my family - it's more than I ever imagined. I've heard stories about jobs in the Syndicate, how unsafe and grueling they can be. Heck, I've heard of other refueling stations at this very same logistics hub where people get injured and they're left to starve - can you imagine? I count my blessings every day."`
			`	He glances at his datapad and stands up, brushing off his uniform. "Thanks for the chat," he says warmly. "I've got to head back in. Calling it an early day today - need to grab a cake and set up a surprise birthday party for my kid. They're going to be thrilled!"`
			`	With a quick wave, he heads back toward the fueling bay, whistling his tune once again.`
				goto "hello there 2"
			label "evil choice 2"
			`	You decide to say hello and ask about the plaque, and the worker lets out a sharp, bitter scoff. "Management put it up after a fuel explosion killed someone," he says in a cold tone. "Injured dozens more, too. They have us handling some incredibly dangerous fuel, no safety gear, and quotas that are impossible to meet. We all knew it was a disaster waiting to happen. But management?" He pauses to wipe his brow.`
			`	"They didn't care. They just wanted the job done fast." He glances at the two small rocks, then shifts his gaze to the plaque again beside them. "He was one of the lucky ones."`
			choice
				`	"How so?"`
				`	(Say nothing.)`
			`	He nods toward the rocks. "Some of the others weren't so lucky to die immediately. They got hurt bad enough that they couldn't keep working, and the burns covering their bodies left them in agony for days. Megaparsec didn't lift a finger to help, no medicine, no credits, nothing. We tried, but they didn't make it.`
			`	"Management won't admit they had anything to do with it, won't help their families or put their names on a plaque or anything. So a few of us put those stones there. Our own little way of remembering."`
			`	You take in his words, the weight of them heavy in the air.`
			choice
				`	(Try to change the subject and ask if he has any family.)`
				`	(Say nothing.)`
					goto "evil choice 2 worker leaves"
			`	The worker turns back to the stones, staring at them for a long, uncomfortable silence. Finally, he shakes his head, his voice barely above a whisper.`
			`	"No."`
			label "evil choice 2 worker leaves"
			`	With that, he pushes himself to his feet and heads back to work without another word.`
			label "hello there 2"
			choice
				`	(Continue on towards the platform.)`
				`	(Return to your <model> to leave.)`
					decline
			label "facility tour"
			`	You continue on through the narrow steps leading to get to the platform overlooking the main fueling bay, and go through the doors at the top of the steps to enter the main facility.`
			branch "good choice 3"
				has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m good"
			branch "evil choice 3"
				has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m evil"
			# neutral 3
			`	At the top of platform, you take in the sight below of hurried workers and a massive Container Transport docking, its intermodal containers likely full of Particle Cannons destined for Megaparsec Quicksilvers.`
			`	Fueling crews move quickly but with a certain impatience, functional but clearly worn gear clanking as they connect the repulsor-mounted refueling hoses to the Container Transport's ports. There's a faint tension in the air, an unspoken acknowledgment that time is money, as the fueling process proceeds with the workers more focused on speed than safety.`
			`	You take a breath of air that feels thick and grimy, carrying the faint stench of fuel. The environmental controls seem poorly maintained, leaving the atmosphere heavy and uncomfortable. The hum of machinery blends with the occasional cough from workers, who seem used to the less-than-ideal conditions. You see the worker from outside, who gives you a short nod before coughing into his arm and rushing to the next fueling hose.`
				goto "hello there 3"
			label "good choice 3"
			`	At the top of platform, the sight below is one of smooth coordination and efficiency. A massive Container Transport docks relatively gracefully, its intermodal containers full of Particle Cannons likely destined for Megaparsec Quicksilvers.`
			`	Workers outfitted in sleek safety gear move with precision, guiding repulsor-mounted refueling hoses to the Container Transport's ports. There's an air of confidence here - a clear, practiced rhythm, as the fueling process proceeds with checks and double-checks.`
			`	You take a deep breath of clean, crisp air. Even the environmental controls seem well-maintained, keeping the air cleaner than you'd expect in a station of this size. It's almost serene, the hum of machinery blending with the low chatter of workers who seem genuinely at ease, knowing they're well-protected. You catch the eye of the worker you saw earlier outside, and he gives you a wave before turning his attention back to the fueling hoses.`
				goto "hello there 3"
			label "evil choice 3"
			`	The air is thick with tension as you look down at the fueling bay. A massive Container Transport lurches to dock, overloaded with Particle Cannons, as workers scramble like their lives depend on it.`
			`	What little safety gear you see appears to be an afterthought - you can't imagine the few cracked helmets or thin gloves doing much of anything. The workers frantically pull the volatile fuel hoses forward, the heavy tubes attached to worn repulsors that barely handle their weight. Workers shout over the roar of pumps, rushing to refuel, their movements hurried and desperate.`
			`	As you inhale, the air sears your lungs, almost choking you into a coughing fit. It's suffocating, laden with the sharp, toxic stench of volatile fuel. The entire platform feels like it's teetering on the edge of catastrophe. Every second here feels dangerous, the air thick with the threat of a disaster waiting to happen. The hum of machinery feels ominous against the gasping breaths of workers, whose tense, hurried movements suggest they're all too aware of the dangerous conditions around them. Everyone here appears equally broken and sullen, and you can't make out the worker you saw earlier from the crowd.`
			label "hello there 3"
			choice
				`	(Take in the scene.)`
				`	(Walk back to the vehicle.)`
					goto ending
			`	You take in the scene for another moment, the sounds of the station filling the air as you stand on the platform. You give the area one last glance before heading back down to return to the spaceport in the bulky vehicle that took you here. The faint metallic taste of the radioactive air returns as you leave the refueling station, blending with the steady hum of the vehicle's repulsor engine.`
			label ending
			`	The long journey back to the spaceport proceeds in silence, leaving your decision behind to echo through the lives of the people left here.`


mission "Syndicate Business 6"
	name "Visit Howard on <planet>"
	description "Howard wants to tell you about yet another investment opportunity."
	minor
	to offer
		has "Syndicate Business 5: done"
		has "Syndicate Business 5.1 A 10m Expansion Update: offered"
		has "event: syndicate business 10m investment done"
		random < 50
		or
			credits > 300000000
			"net worth" > 600000000
	source
		government "Syndicate"
		not planet "Sunracer"
	destination "Sunracer"
	on offer
		conversation
			branch deferred
				has "Syndicate Business 6: deferred"
			`After an uneventful walk through the spaceport, you return to the <ship> to see a message from Howard, the Megaparsec salesman who sold you two investments. The message says:`
				goto message
			label deferred
			`	After an uneventful trip through the spaceport, you remember saving a message from Howard, the Megaparsec salesman you've already invested with twice. The message says:`
			label message
			branch meanopening
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" > 0
			`	"Dear <first>,`
			`	"I trust that all is well with you. I am pleased to share that the investment opportunity I mentioned in my last message has now arrived. I truly value our partnership and the trust you've placed in me, and I'm confident this next venture will be a great fit for your ambitions.`
			`	"Please meet me on Sunracer at your earliest convenience so we can review the details together. I look forward to catching up and discussing our next steps."`
			`		Howard Vendeur`
			`		Investor Relations Manager, Megaparsec Incorporated`
				goto openingchoice
			label meanopening
			`	"Captain <last>,`
			`	"I trust you've reviewed the interim Megaparsec report I last sent you. The investment opportunity I previously mentioned is now available. I expect you to meet me on Sunracer at your earliest convenience to finalize the details. I look forward to discussing next steps to close this deal promptly."`
			`		Howard Vendeur`
			`		Investor Relations Manager, Megaparsec Incorporated`
			label openingchoice
			choice
				`	(Message him back that you're on the way.)`
				`	(Save the message to look at later.)`
					defer
				`	(Ignore and delete the message.)`
					decline
			`	You immediately receive an automated response:`
			`	"Dear Valued Contact,`
			`	"Thank you for reaching out. I am currently out of the office and will respond to your message as soon as possible.`
			`	"For urgent matters, please contact our support team."`
			`		Howard Vendeur`
			`		Investor Relations Manager, Megaparsec Incorporated`
				accept
	on defer
		set "Syndicate Business 6: deferred"
	on accept
		clear "Syndicate Business 6: deferred"
	on complete
		conversation
			`Howard sends you a reminder of his address near the spaceport as you land your <model> on <planet> - curiously on the ninth floor of the Megaparsec corporate office, rather than the eighth floor you met him on last time. He must still be reserving conference rooms for these meetings.`


mission "Syndicate Business 7"
	name "Kicking a Hornet's Nest"
	description `Howard needs you to upload "evidence" to an automated Quicksilver in <waypoints>, destroy it, and meet up on <destination> by <date>.`
	priority
	to offer
		has "Syndicate Business 6: done"
	source "Sunracer"
	waypoint "Oblate"
	destination "Canyon"
	deadline 7
	on offer
		conversation
			`After a short walk through the bustling spaceport, you reach Megaparsec's sky-scraping corporate office. The sleek and modern lobby evokes the fast, light ships they're known for, with polished surfaces, elegant furniture, and subtle lighting coming together seamlessly.`
			`	The receptionist greets you with a nod and a warm smile, either remembering you from your prior visits or merely being polite. The elevator ride up to the ninth floor is smooth, the soft hum of machinery fading away as you walk through the elevator doors. Howard's office is modern yet modest, featuring a central smart desk, a few sleek chairs, and large windows overlooking the busy shipyards. Howard himself stands at one of the expansive windows, looking out at Megaparsec's shipyards below.`
			branch meanhello
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" > 0
			`	"Glad you could make it," he says, his voice cordial and confident. "This investment opportunity for you is ten times larger than our last deal - but first I need a small favor."`
				goto restofhello
			label meanhello
			`	Howard's gaze doesn't shift from the glass as he says, "You're here. Good. This investment opportunity is ten times larger than the last one - but first I need a small favor."`
			label restofhello
			`	He turns to face you. "We're on the cusp of greatness."`
			choice
				`	"You didn't mention any favor in your message."`
				`	"Am I going to have to jump through hoops for every investment you offer?"`
				`	"The cusp of greatness?"`
					goto great
				`	"That's a bit dramatic with the window, no?"`
					goto great
			`	Howard raises an amused eyebrow and remarks, "Relax, it's nothing you can't handle. Just a minor detour on this road to greatness."`
			label great
			`	He turns back towards the window. "Greatness. My own corner office, a luxurious company ship, not to mention a sizable bonus. Director... all I need from you is to help nudge a small event in our favor."`
			choice
				`	"What kind of nudge?"`
					goto nextsteps
				`	"The 'greatness' you're talking about is just another promotion?"`
			`	Yet again he briefly turns from the window to face you.`
			`	"Of course.`
			label nextsteps
			`	"Said nudge entails a certain degree of discretion and precision. You've demonstrated that during our Marauder acquisition; now we need it for an excision. I need you to plant some evidence onto a ship in <waypoints> to bait the pirates there into attacking a research convoy. Then, regroup on <planet> before the convoy comes through next week, and that should definitively shut down the Marauder project. After the anticipated response by the pirates, we confirm on <planet> that there's no loose ends."`
			`	Howard continues to watch the shipyards below for a long moment before turning from the window with a deliberate finality, and strides to his desk at the center of the room. Planting both hands firmly on the smooth surface, he meets your gaze with an unusual intensity and says, "I need you to kick a hornets' nest and to make sure those hornets sting."`
			choice
				`	"Stinging hornets and nest kicking. You got it."`
					goto restofplan
				`	"Last time I helped you start your Marauder project, and now you want me to end it? What's going on, Howard?"`
			branch meanplan
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" > 0
			`	Howard exhales, shaking his head with a knowing smile. "Starting the Marauder project got me here, but keeping it alive? That won't help me get to the next level." Howard leans casually against the desk, his tone becoming more familiar but still businesslike. "The engineers are whispering that mass production doesn't look feasible. That's bad news for me if the higher-ups catch wind of it before we can control the narrative."`
				goto restofplan
			label meanplan
			`	Howard exhales sharply as his eyes narrow in irritation. "Starting the Marauder project served its purpose, but now? It's a liability." At the last word, his gaze flicks over you. "Let's just say it's run its course; I need it shut down before anyone starts asking questions that I can't answer."`
			label restofplan
			`	Howard's tone remains measured, but there's a calculated edge to it now. "So, we make sure the Marauder project dies for the right reasons before anyone starts asking the wrong questions. If, say, an unfortunate pirate attack conveniently wipes out key research and a few critical components, the whole project becomes unsalvageable. Lightspeed Logistics is responsible for security, not me, so if the whole thing goes up in flames, my reputation remains intact - just another casualty of circumstance. Then there'll be nothing standing in the way of my promotion, and I get a new corner office."`
			branch meancloser
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" > 0
			`	He spreads his hands in a benevolent gesture. "It's the perfect exit strategy. No loose ends. And if there's anyone I trust to make this happen, it's you."`
				goto restofcloser
			label meancloser
			`	He spreads his hands, as if the whole thing is just another transaction. "It's a clean exit. No loose ends. All I need is for you to make it happen."`
			label restofcloser
			choice
				`	"Sounds good."`
					goto askitself
				`	"This all seems a bit more... cutthroat than before."`
				`	"This is too underhanded for me. I'm not working with you anymore."`
					decline
			branch meancutthroat
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" > 0
			`	Howard's eyes soften as he meets your gaze, a fond smile playing on his lips. "Cutthroat? How far we've come since you saved me from that pirate in Moktar. Every hard move has been a stepping stone as we climb to the peak of this ruthless world. And when I reach the top, I won't forget the loyalty that got me there."`
				goto goldenjewelaround
			label meancutthroat
			`	"Me? Cutthroat?" Howard maintains a hard gaze as he gives you an exaggerated wink, "Don't you forget it. I appreciate what you did on Moktar, but business is business. It's a ruthless world, and all we can do is climb to the top or be trampled beneath." Begrudgingly, he adds, "And I don't forget those who help me get there."`
			label goldenjewelaround
			branch piratearound
				has "syndicate business: golden jewel dead"
			`	Wistfully, Howard adds, "Moktar. The Golden Jewel. I wonder if that ship's still flying out there...`
				goto askitself
			label piratearound
			`	Wistfully, Howard adds, "Moktar. The Golden Jewel. Almost a shame that pirate captain isn't flying around anymore...`
			label askitself
			`	"Anyway, back to the ask. Think you can plant evidence on a Quicksilver in <waypoints>, then make sure it turns into wreckage, and get to <planet> before <day>? Once you're on <planet>, I might need you to tie off any loose ends... but then we can move along to talking about that nine-figure investment. What do you say?"`
			choice
				`	"I'm in, let's do it."`
					goto ending
				`	"How can I possibly plant evidence on a crewed ship without anyone knowing?"`
				`	"I'm out; we're through."`
					decline
			branch seendummy
				( "Syndicate target practice [0]: done" + "Syndicate target practice [1]: done" + "Syndicate target practice [2]: done" + "Syndicate target practice [3]: done" ) > 0
			`	"That's the neat part, you won't have to. You'll be planting the evidence on an automated prototype vessel. The technology's under wraps, and still in the testing phases. Anyway, there's no one on the ship. And I want you to load it up with this file." He holds up a data disk. "It contains the real timing and defenses of the convoy that's moving that vital Marauder research in a few days, as well as fake data indicating untold riches aboard to entice the pirates."`
				goto postdummy
			label seendummy
			`	"That's the neat part, you won't have to. You'll be planting the evidence on an automated prototype vessel. Funnily enough, records indicate that you've even been offered to test them before, so you know that technology is still very much in the testing phases. Anyway, there's no one on the ship. And I want you to load it up with this file." He holds up a data disk. "It contains the real timing and defenses of the convoy that's moving that vital Marauder research in a few days, as well as fake data indicating untold riches aboard to entice the pirates."`
			label postdummy
			choice
				`	"Okay, great. Makes sense to me."`
					goto ending
				`	"Why don't I just blow up the ship while I'm still on board?"`
			`	"Blowing it up from the inside wouldn't do - we need it to look like a proper pirate attack. The wreckage signatures would betray an internal explosion rather than an external assault, and such a sabotage would look laughably amateur. Then I'd be drowning in a thorough investigation neither of us can afford."`
			choice
				`	"I'm in."`
				`	"Not interested. I'm done with these tasks."`
					decline
			label ending
			`	He hands you a data disk containing the evidence. "I knew you'd make the right decision. Remember, we really want to kick the hornet's nest here. I've disabled the Quicksilver in <waypoints>, so it should be a cinch for you to upload this evidence onto the ship and ensure its destruction. Remember, first board, then blast. Meet me on <planet> afterwards for any follow-ups. See you in a week."`
				accept
	on enter "Moktar"
		"reputation: Independent (Killable)" = -1000
	npc
		government "Independent (Killable)"
		personality heroic staying vindictive
			confusion 20
		system "Moktar"
		ship "Vanguard" "Golden Jewel"
		to despawn
			has "syndicate business: golden jewel dead"
		on encounter
			conversation
				`When you enter Moktar, your sensors detect a familiar pirate Vanguard. Your ship is immediately hailed, and the pirate opens communication.`
				`	"If it isn't a pitiful, perplexing parasite, popping up to plague my peace once more!"`
				choice
					`	"We can't keep meeting like this."`
					`	"Uhhh... who are you again?"`
						goto whomst
				`	"Our paths are as powerfully painful as the pestilence - your persistent presence has provoked my peevishness!"`
					goto power
				label whomst
				`	"I am the relentless, raging rapscallion who revels in ripping apart feeble, fumbling fiends!"`
				label power
				`	You can't help feeling a sense of deja vu as the Vanguard's engines roar to life and you see a baker's half-dozen guns take aim at your ship, ready to fire.`
		on kill
			set "syndicate business: golden jewel dead"
			dialog "The crew of the Golden Jewel are no more. You think you can make out the pirate captain drifting in space nearby."

	on enter "Oblate"
		"reputation: Test Dummy" = 10

	npc assist kill
		government "Test Dummy"
		personality derelict disables heroic staying target
			confusion 120
		system "Oblate"
		ship "Quicksilver Test Dummy" "Syndicate Test Vessel"
		on encounter
			conversation
				`You receive a message from Howard almost immediately upon entering the system:`
				`	"Alright, you're here. Get aboard the Quicksilver to upload the file, make sure it doesn't leave the system in one piece, and finally meet back on <destination>. Remember, no loose ends here."`
				`		Howard Vendeur`
				`		Investor Relations Manager, Megaparsec Incorporated`
		on assist
			dialog "You step into the Syndicate Test Vessel, eerily quiet, the empty ship amplifying every footstep. You hurry to upload Howard's evidence file to the ship. The file uploads in seconds, and you return to the <ship> to leave this ghostly vessel behind."
		on kill
			dialog "With the Quicksilver destroyed, it's time to get to <destination>."

	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality nemesis staying
		system "Oblate"
		ship "Manta" "Rum Ray"
		on kill
			dialog `You receive a brief hail as the Manta explodes: "Consider this an open tab with the Rumrunners - the next round is on you, and we collect in blood!"`
			log "Destroyed a Manta called the Rum Ray, causing the Rumrunners to promise vengeance."
	
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality nemesis staying
		system "Oblate"
		ship "Wasp" "Swig and Sting"
		ship "Scrapper" "Quick Shot"
		ship "Scrapper" "Bottom of the Barrel"
		
	on visit
		conversation
			`Howard sends you a message as your <model> descends to the planet:`
			`	"What are you doing? Get back up there, board the Quicksilver, and finish the job. We're running out of time and we can't afford mistakes."`
			`		Howard Vendeur`
			`		Investor Relations Manager, Megaparsec Incorporated`

	on complete
		"reputation: Independent (Killable)" = 0
		"reputation: Test Dummy" = -1000
		conversation
			`As you maneuver your <model> onto the flat, ancient mesa that's considered spaceport parking, your ship's comms light up with a message:`
			branch meancanyonopening
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" > 0
			`	"Excellent work, Captain. My Shuttle's waiting just outside the spaceport - please meet me there immediately. I appreciate your swift action on this.`
				goto restofcanyonopening
			label meancanyonopening
			`	"Good work. My Shuttle is parked just outside the spaceport - meet me there immediately so we can proceed without further delay. No time to waste."`
			label restofcanyonopening
			`		Howard Vendeur`
			`		Investor Relations Manager, Megaparsec Incorporated`


mission "Syndicate Business 8"
	name "Escort Howard to <planet>"
	description "Escort Howard to <destination> so that he can shore up support for his promotion."
	priority
	to offer
		has "Syndicate Business 7: done"
	source "Canyon"
	destination "Hephaestus"
	on offer
		conversation
			`You step out on the stone field surrounding Canyon's spaceport and quickly locate Howard's Shuttle in an open patch with a wide berth. Climbing aboard, you find Howard waiting, and he greets you with a measured nod.`
			branch meancanyonopening
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" > 0
			`	"Again, outstanding work, <first>," he says with a satisfied tone.`
				goto restofcanyonopening
			label meancanyonopening
			`	"Job's done," he states flatly.`
			label restofcanyonopening
			`	"The pirates hit the convoy exactly as planned - the Marauder Project's vital components are all lost, with no loose ends left behind. They'll have no choice but to axe the project, and my bosses don't suspect a thing.`
			`	"One last step for that promotion - I need you to escort me to Hephaestus so I can secure a few formal promotion recommendations from Syndicate leadership, then we finalize that investment. Ready to go?"`
			choice
				`	"Ready as ever."`
					accept
				`	"Another favor?"`
					goto favor
				`	"Why do you need an escort?"`
				`	"I'm through with your needs. I'm done with this."`
					goto refused
			`	"Because this stunt's painted a target on my back. My bosses suspect nothing - but I'm sure Lightspeed Logistics already smells foul play and is less than pleased about the embarrassment. They have plenty of pirate contacts willing to collect a bounty. I need you as a deterrent until I can clinch the promotion with those endorsements.`
			label favor
			`	"Escort me to <planet> to secure my promotion and guide me back to Sunracer, then we can talk through and finalize that investment. Perhaps it's two favors then.`
			branch meancanyoncloser
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" > 0
			`	"We get that done, then we pen in that investment and both walk away richer than ever. All part of the grand plan - what do you say?"`
				goto restofcanyoncloser
			label meancanyoncloser
			`	"Get it done and we both profit. Ready?"`
			label restofcanyoncloser
			choice
				`	"I'm in."`
					accept
				`	"I'm out."`
			label refused
			action
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" += 3
			`	Howard stares at you, dumbfounded. After a long moment, he scoffs, then laughs - sharp and nervous. "You're out? You can't be out - not after this! You think Lightspeed won't come for me - won't come for you? I'll tell them any..." Howard pauses, takes a deep breath, and straightens his collar.`
			`	"Look. Just get me to <planet>, I'll lock in that promotion, and back to Sunracer - then we talk investments. You've already done the hard part, don't you want to reap the rewards of your efforts? It's right there."`
			`	He leans in, voice low and persuasive, "You've come this far - don't walk away with the finish line in sight."`
			choice
				`	"Okay, I'll do it."`
					accept
				`	"I told you, we're through. I'm leaving."`
					decline
	npc accompany save
		government "Syndicate"
		personality escort timid
		ship "Shuttle" "Gallant Knight"
		on kill
			dialog "You watch as Howard's Shuttle explodes into a cloud of debris along with any hope of his promotion."
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality harvests nemesis plunders staying
		system destination
		ship "Quicksilver" "Severance Package"
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality harvests nemesis plunders
		system destination
		ship "Quicksilver" "Hostile Takeover"

	on complete
		conversation
			`Your ship arrives amidst the sprawling metropolis of the Syndicate. You lose sight of Howard's Shuttle as you land your <model>, but nevertheless get a parting message from him:`
			`	"Captain <last>, I'll be in touch in a few days for the investment once some schmoozing has secured my promotion. Stay sharp."`
			`		Howard Vendeur`
			`		Investor Relations Manager, Megaparsec Incorporated`
			action
				event "syndicate business Howard schmoozing" 2 4

event "syndicate business Howard schmoozing"


mission "Syndicate Business 9"
	name "Meet Howard on <planet>"
	description "Meet Howard on <destination> to escort him back to Sunracer."
	landing
	to offer
		has "Syndicate Business 8: done"
		has "event: syndicate business Howard schmoozing"
	source
		near "Sol" 0 100
		not planet "Hephaestus"
	destination "Hephaestus"
	on offer
		clear "event: syndicate business Howard schmoozing"
		conversation
			`After a few days, you get a triumphant message from Howard:`
			`	"<first> <last>,`
			`	"Promotion secured. Meet me here on <destination> to escort me back to Sunracer - I've got a new ship and office to show you. And of course plans to finalize our nine-figure credit investment."`
			`		Howard Vendeur`
			`		Director of Investor Relations & External Projects, Megaparsec Incorporated`
			choice
				`	(Message back a heartfelt congratulations and that I'm on my way.)`
				`	(Respond that nobody cares about his promotion, but I'll be there soon.)`
					goto rude
			`	You immediately receive a response:`
			`	"<first>,`
			`	"Appreciate that. Thank you for the kind words. Looking forward to seeing you soon."`
			`		Howard Vendeur`
			`		Director of Investor Relations & External Projects, Megaparsec Incorporated`
			`	It would seem Howard's responses aren't all automated messages.`
			action
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" --
			``
				goto end
			label rude
			`	You immediately receive a response:`
			`	"<first>,`
			`	"You tihnk I care what you care abuot? Get here. Now."`
			`		Howard Vendeur`
			`		Director of Investor Relations & External Projects, Megaparsec Incorporated`
			`	Howard must be seething to miss typos.`
			action
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" ++
			label end
			``
				accept

	on complete
		conversation
			`Like clockwork, you get a message from Howard as the <ship> lands on <destination>:`
			branch meanpromo
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" > 0
			`	"<first>,`
			`	"Welcome back. Meet me at the spaceport so we can get back to Sunracer. And take a moment to check out my new ship - I think you'll be impressed."`
				goto restofhello
			label meanpromo
			`	"I see you've arrived. Meet me at the spaceport to escort me back to Sunracer. I have an impressive new ship - get here as soon as possible."`
			label restofhello
			`		Howard Vendeur`
			`		Director of Investor Relations & External Projects, Megaparsec Incorporated`


mission "Syndicate Business 10"
	name "Escort Howard to <planet>"
	description "Escort Howard back to <destination> to finalize your 100M credit investment."
	priority
	to offer
		has "Syndicate Business 9: done"
	source "Hephaestus"
	destination "Sunracer"
	on offer
		conversation
			`You step into Hephaestus' bustling spaceport, where the flash of arc welders and the clamor of robotic gantries set the relentless, industrial rhythm of the Syndicate. Amid the busy hangars, you spot Howard standing beside a brand-new Bounder - the sleek vessel cutting a striking figure against the hangar's harsh backdrop of chrome and concrete.`
			`	Howard flashes you a proud smile as he beckons you closer. "Take a good look - what do you think?"`
			choice
				`	"It's alright, I suppose. Gets the job done."`
				`	"This ship is a stunner - it really shines above the rest."`
					goto verynice
				`	"Just another pathetic piece of scrap."`
					goto verynotnice
			`	Howard nods, a slight edge of disappoint in his voice. "Fine, let's move on."`
				goto restofhello
			label verynice
			action
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" --
			`	Howard's grin widens, his tone warm. "Glad you see it that way. I knew it'd catch your eye."`
				goto restofhello
			label verynotnice
			`	Howard's face darkens, hurt barely concealed as he snaps, "I thought you'd have better taste. But we have work to do."`
			action
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" ++
			label restofhello
			`	Without missing a beat, Howard adds, "Enough talk. No time to waste, let's get to Sunracer." He strides inside his Bounder, and with a roar of engines he takes off for the journey ahead, with your ship behind him.`
				launch
	
	npc accompany save
		government "Syndicate"
		personality escort timid
		ship "Bounder" "Knight So Bold"
		on kill
			dialog "You watch as Howard's Bounder explodes into a cloud of debris along with any hope of that investment opportunity."
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality harvests nemesis plunders staying
		system destination
		ship "Quicksilver" "Enforced Compliance"
	npc
		government "Pirate"
		personality harvests nemesis plunders
		system destination
		ship "Quicksilver" "The Noncompete"
	on complete
		event "syndicate business 100m investment done" 730
		event "syndicate business vip eligible" 90
		conversation
			`As you land on Sunracer, Howard's Bounder touches down out of view. His office is still at Megaparsec's main building, but now on the 42nd floor rather than the eighth or ninth floors.`
			`	You make your way through Sunracer's now-familiar terminals to the towering Megaparsec corporate office. Inside, the lobby exudes tasteful sophistication, polished surfaces accented by subtle, ambient lighting and a quiet hum of high-end technology. You are waved in by the receptionist and step into the elevator, and it takes noticeably longer than your previous rides - a deliberate and steady ascent.`
			`	The elevator doors finally part to reveal the 42nd floor, a realm of refined elegance. Howard's corner office is a far cry from his modest reservable offices he had before. A custom-built smart desk commands the center, flanked by designer seating and accented by carefully curated art that whispers of ambition. Expansive windows frame a dynamic vista of the shipyards below - a living testament to the relentless innovation of Megaparsec. Standing at the window with quiet authority, Howard meets your gaze, a man unmistakably on his own deliberate ascent through the ranks of Megaparsec.`
			`	He nods in acknowledgment as you step forward, the promise of new ventures electrifying the air.`
			choice
				`	"Howard."`
				`	"Howard! This new office - magnificent. The view, the art, the power. Quite the upgrade. Well done."`
					goto complimentary
				`	"Still dramatic with the window I see, like some tragic corporate philosopher."`
					goto rude
			`	"<first>. Quite the ride up, wasn't it? Deliberate. Measured. An inevitable accession.`
				goto restofhello
			label complimentary
			action
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" --
			`	Howard looks visibly pleased. "Ah, you have an eye for refinement."`
				goto restofhello
			label rude
			action
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" ++
			`	Howard's expression momentarily tightens, before putting on a practiced smile. "Ah, your charm remains... distinct. I find a view helps with perspective."`
			label restofhello
			`	Howard walks from the window towards the room's premier art piece, a canvas covered in bold, sweeping strokes of silver and blue. Howard gazes at the lines, "They evoke a rush of light and momentum, symbolizing Megaparsec's drive ever upwards towards uncharted horizons.`
			`	"But we aren't here for an art tour. We're here to discuss your chance to invest in Megaparsec's new CRUCIBLE Facility."`
			choice
				`	"Crucible?"`
				`	"Of course."`
					goto skipcrucible
			`	"'Crossroads Rugged Undertaking, Critically Innovative Benchmarking & Launch Evaluation' Facility. CRUCIBLE.`
			label skipcrucible
			`	"This isn't just another investment, it's a chance to push our high-performance vehicles to their absolute limits in one of the galaxy's harshest environments. Out on Crossroads, Mother Nature herself runs a full battery of tests: natural sandstorms, searing radiation, rugged terrain - conditions so extreme they would cost a fortune to simulate in a lab anywhere else.`
			`	"By leveraging Crossroads' environment, our prototypes can be exposed to real-world, relentless conditions that will let us rapidly validate a design's durability and performance. It's the ultimate trial by radioactive fire - our very best vehicles battle-tested against nature's worst.`
			`	"Your investment isn't just a stake in a facility. As is typical for these types of grand investments, a new business entity will be set up to construct and manage the property, while Megaparsec signs an indefinite lease. That means you'll enjoy a steady income from those leasing fees regardless of the ups and downs of vehicle sales. You're not just fueling innovation, you'll be securing reliable returns while we revolutionize performance testing.`
			branch goodsweetner
				has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m good"
			branch evilsweetner
				has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m evil"
			# neutral
			`	"I know that you're a solid, by-the-book investor. This project plays to our strengths and ensures steady, proven returns through rigorous, real-world testing. No surprises.`
				goto youin
			label goodsweetner
			`	"Given your last investment, I know that you care about things beyond profits. This is a chance to commit to eco-friendly innovation and safer work practices. Here, we can set new standards for performance and for doing good.`
				goto youin
			label evilsweetner
			`	"Given your last foray into unregulated fuel sources, I know that you're looking for sky-high returns here. There's options here to cut through red tape and to make this facility a real profit multiplier.`
			label youin
			branch upcharge
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" > 0
			`	"Now, the price for this investment is one hundred million credits for a robust 27,400 credits per day. And just like last time, no need to pull out your wallet - I can still pull a few strings with our friends at the bank and our Finance Division. For you, I've even talked them down to half interest. You'll just need to sign a few documents to get things moving."`
			`	He slides a document over to you, with a sleek pen ready for your signature. "Just sign this first document for the loan and then we can talk through the rest of the documents before signing."`
			choice
				`	(Sign the loan.)`
					goto nextynice
				`	"I'm done with these deals. I'm leaving."`
					goto imleaving
			label upcharge
			`	Howard's tone carries a hint of impatience. "Now, the price for this investment is one hundred and eleven million credits for a 27,400 credit per day return. I've arranged a loan for you at the bank and through our Finance Division, so you won't need to come up with the investment immediately. I've talked down the loan's interest to be half as high as your prior loan. Just sign these documents to formalize the arrangement."`
			`	He shoves a document over to you, with a flimsy pen ready for your signature. "Just sign this first document for the loan and then we can talk through the rest of the documents before signing."`
			choice
				`	(Sign the loan.)`
					goto nextymean
				`	"I'm done with these deals. I'm leaving."`
			label imleaving
			`	Howard lets out a sharp breath, shaking his head in disbelief. "So that's it, then?" His expression hardens. "It's your right, of course, to walk away from the opportunity of a lifetime - one I promise you won't see again. But perhaps I misheard you... are you truly done with this deal?"`
			choice
				`	"You must have misheard - I said, 'I'm stunned by these deals, I'm agreeing.'" (Sign the loan.)`
				`	"I'm done signing these dumpy deals with your bargain-bin pens. Goodbye, Howard."`
					decline
			branch nextymean
				"syndicate business: mean to Howard" > 0
			label nextynice
			action
				debt 100000000
					interest 0.04
					term 7300
			`	He takes the document from you and you see the loan terms on the screen behind him: 100M credits, 20 years, 16% rate.`
				goto nexty
			label nextymean
			action
				debt 111000000
					interest 0.05
					term 7300
			`	He snatches the document from you with a wicked smile and you see the loan terms on the screen behind him: 111M credits, 20 years, 20% rate.`
			label nexty
			`	Howard leans back in his chair. "Well done. You're now a significant, valuable partner to Megaparsec's business interests. We're considering a conventional launch of our testing facility on Crossroads - a balanced, by-the-book approach that promises steady, reliable returns."`
			`	He eyes you carefully, gauging your reaction. "Of course, that's just one framework - there's always room to tweak the plan. What direction excites you more: unbridled profit, sticking with stability, or making a positive impact?`
			branch goodcloser
				has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m good"
			branch evilcloser
				has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m evil"
			# neutral
			`	After a moment, Howard adds, "Knowing you, I'd imagine we want to stick with stability, am I right?"`
				goto closer
			label goodcloser
			`	After a moment, Howard adds, "Knowing you, I could voice over the plan that goes beyond profits towards more public good?"`
				goto closer
			label evilcloser
			`	After a moment, Howard adds, "Knowing you, I could dive right into how we can cut red tape for that unbridled profit."`
			label closer
			`	Howard pauses, waiting on your reaction.`
			choice
				`	"I'll stick with stability, that's the choice for me."`
					goto choseplana
				`	"What would that 'unbridled profit' entail?"`
					goto planb
				`	"Tell me about how this can make a positive impact?"`
					goto planc
			label plana
			`	"The conventional facility delivers a solid, balanced approach. We use well-established testing protocols that meet regulatory standards while delivering steady, respectable returns. It's a safe, time-tested strategy that rewards disciplined execution without unnecessary risks, offering about 27,400 credits a day, or roughly 10% annually."`
			choice
				`	"Sounds like a good plan to me."`
					goto choseplana
				`	"What would it take to boost profits even more?"`
					goto planb
					to display
						not "heardplanb"
				`	"And if I have concerns about making a positive impact?"`
					goto planc
					to display
						not "heardplanc"
				`	"Could you remind me about the more profitable option?"`
					goto planb
					to display
						has "heardplanb"
				`	"Explain the 'genuine good' choice once more."`
					goto planc
					to display
						has "heardplanc"
			label planb
			`	"There's a certain allure to uncompromising profit - a no-holds-barred, red-tape-free approach. We cut every corner on labor, safety, and the environment to unlock some explosive returns. It's the high-stakes, high-return option for those unafraid of a little controversy for rapid gains of 41,000 credits a day, or around 14% a year."`
			`	He grins. "And as for those little controversies? Don't worry about it - they didn't matter last time, and the odds of another cropping up with this project are probably slim."`
				to display
					has "Syndicate Business expansion 10m evil"
			action
				set "heardplanb"
			choice
				`	"Bring on the profits, this uncompromising option is the one for me."`
					goto choseplanb
				`	"Tell me about the conventional facility again."`
					goto plana
				`	"And if I have concerns about the environmental or labor impact?"`
					goto planc
					to display
						not "heardplanc"
				`	"Explain the 'positive good' choice once more."`
					goto planc
					to display
						has "heardplanc"
			label planc
			`	"You could opt for a more 'genuine good' approach with an eco-friendly, people-first facility. We invest in green technologies and world-class safety protocols, nurturing a work environment with better conditions and community integration - though of course at the cost of profit, returning 20,400 credits a day, or just around 7% a year."`
			action
				set "heardplanc"
			choice
				`	"This people-first facility is the one for me."`
					goto choseplanc
				`	"Tell me about the conventional expansion again."`
					goto plana
				`	"What would it take to boost profits even more?"`
					goto planb
					to display
						not "heardplanb"
				`	"Could you remind me about the maximum profit option?"`
					goto planb
					to display
						has "heardplanb"
			label choseplana
			action
				"salary: Syndicate Business" += 27400
				set "Syndicate Business expansion 100m neutral"
				log "Was able to make another investment with Megaparsec, this time one hundred million credits, after planting evidence on a Syndicate ship for Howard. Out of three investment options, ended up choosing the conventional approach."
			`	Howard nods appreciatively, his tone businesslike. "Congratulations - your choice reinforces Megaparsec's commitment to steady, risk-mitigated growth. This approach will deliver reliable performance and predictable returns, all while maintaining rigorous quality and safety standards. It's not always about flashy headlines; it's about long-term profitability with minimal surprises."`
				goto ending
			label choseplanb
			action
				"salary: Syndicate Business" += 41000
				set "Syndicate Business expansion 100m evil"
				log "Was able to make another investment with Megaparsec, this time one hundred million credits, after planting evidence on a Syndicate ship for Howard. Out of three investment options, ended up choosing the profitable approach."
			`	Howard leans forward with a calculated gleam in his eye. "Excellent choice - it's a high-octane approach where we push every boundary to extract maximum profit. Think of your high returns, while Megaparsec gets rapid product cycles and a clear market edge. Minor bumps in the PR and labor front are just part of the cost of being a true trailblazer."`
				goto ending
			label choseplanc
			action
				"salary: Syndicate Business" += 20400
				set "Syndicate Business expansion 100m good"
				log "Was able to make another investment with Megaparsec, this time one hundred million credits, after planting evidence on a Syndicate ship for Howard. Out of three investment options, ended up choosing the positive impact approach."
			`	Howard's expression softens as he speaks. "Well done - your choice speaks volumes about your commitment to ethical standards, sustainability, and worker well-being. While the monetary returns are unquestionably the worst offered to you, I'm sure it'll still build lasting value for Megaparsec through the more intangible benefits of enhanced community goodwill, reduced environmental liabilities, and robust employee loyalty."`
			label ending
			`	He smiles. "Great, now that we've locked in your investment, let's get the remaining paperwork squared away." He slides a stack of documents across the desk. "These include the last of the remaining loan terms, the investment agreement for the testing facility, and the standard legal fine print. At this point, you know the drill - just a few signatures to seal the deal." He hands you a sleek pen, his gaze businesslike. "Once this is done, you'll be a stakeholder in one of Megaparsec's most innovative projects to redefine performance testing on Crossroads."`
			choice
				`	(Sign the paperwork.)`
			`	With the last signature in place, Howard nods in approval. "Congratulations. You've made an excellent decision today. I'll certainly keep you in mind for future opportunities. You know me, and I know who to call to invest when the next groundbreaking project comes around." He offers a firm handshake and a confident smile. "Until next time. Keep in touch."`
			`	After that last goodbye, you leave Howard's office. The quiet within gives way to the steady hum of machinery as you walk through the elevator doors, beginning your long descent back to the ground - and to your next opportunity.`
			action
				clear "heardplanb"
				clear "heardplanc"

event "syndicate business 100m investment done"

event "syndicate business vip eligible"


mission "Timothy Radrickson 1: Stowaway"
	invisible
	landing
	source
		near "Zeta Aquilae" 3 10
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Independent" "Pirate" "Neutral"
	destination "Rand"
	to offer
		has "event: remembrance day"
		random < 2
	on enter

	# You will see this conversation after the first jump you make.
	on enter
		conversation
			`Upon completing your jump, one of your internal sensors begins to beep. You flick off the siren and check the diagnostic report: apparently there is a non-negligible heat source detected in the food storage of your ship.`
				to display
					not "entered system by: takeoff"
			`Upon taking off, one of your internal sensors begins to beep. You flick off the siren and check the diagnostic report: apparently there is a non-negligible heat source detected in the food storage of your ship.`
				to display
					has "entered system by: takeoff"
			`	As problems go, it is not a particularly alarming one: there are plenty of reasons there may be a heat spike in storage, and most of them would not require the captain of the ship to investigate.`
			`	It is unusual, however.`
			choice
				`	(Investigate.)`
					goto check
				`	(Ignore the sensor.)`

			action
				fail
				event "timothy radrickson: mummy" 41
			`	You turn off the alarm and return your focus to piloting your ship.`
				decline

			label check
			`	After a short search, and the rearranging of quite a few deceptively heavy boxes, you are able to track the heat signature to a foodstuff crate you recently took on. It has yet to be opened, but you can tell its seal has already been tampered with.`
			choice
				`	(Open the crate.)`
					goto crate
				`	(Dump the crate out the airlock.)`

			action
				fail
			`	As the crate tumbles out into lifeless space your onboard sensors quickly note the anomalous heat signature disappear. Whatever was in that crate is no longer your problem, and probably won't be anyone else's either.`
				decline

			label crate
			`	You pry open the crate. It should be full of meals for your journey, but after removing the lid you discover a dirty, disheveled man.`
			`	Before you have a chance to say anything, the man looks up at you with narrowed, pained eyes, and whimpers. "P-p-please. I just had to get away. I-I-It wasn't safe. I had to get away." He weakly holds up his hands.`
			choice
				`	"Who are you?"`
				`	"Where's my food?"`

			`	"T-T-Timothy Radrickson. I-I tossed your food out to make room. I am sorry. I am so sorry. I have no money to pay you back. I just h-h-had to leave. They were after me. I owed money. I had nothing. Please. Any other world will do. I just need to get away. I just need to start anew. I'll p-p-pay you back, I swear. I swear. I will. I swear."`
			choice
				`	"Is there somewhere you'd like to go?"`
					goto somewhere
				`	"Fine. I'll drop you off at the next port."`
					goto port
				`	"I know where you're going. The airlock."`

			action
				fail
			`	The feeble man screams as you drag him out of the crate and toward the airlock. He ineptly squirms as you shove him past the bulkhead seals. He falls to his knees shuddering, and he scrunches up with terror. You close the airlock, silencing his shrill screams, and hit the button to open the outside airlock. The man is promptly sucked out into cold, cruel space and crystallizes before becoming this system's newest comet.`
				decline

			label port
			action
				fail
				set "timothy radrickson: port"
			`	"Thank you," he whispers as tears squeeze out of his eyes. "Thank you."`
			`	You get the man cleaned up and settled, and then go back to running your ship.`
				decline

			label somewhere
			action
				set "timothy radrickson: agreed"
			`	Timothy looks at you, his eyes wide and full of tears. "Rand," he whispers. "Rand. I can make good money there. I can turn my life around. B-b-but I'd be okay with anywhere. You d-d-don't have to.."`
			`	You cut him off. "It's fine, Timothy. I'll take you to Rand."`
			`	Timothy breaks down in tears. "Thank you. Thank you. Thank you..." he mumbles over and over again.`
			`	You help him out of the crate and get him cleaned up.`
				accept

	on complete
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `A stowaway I found on my ship. He requested a trip to Rand to start a new life, promising to pay back the money he owes.`
		log `Discovered Timothy, a stowaway, in my ship, and decided to take him where he needed to go. Never learned what Timothy had been fleeing, who he had been, or what he had done that lead him to such dire straits.`
		event "timothy radrickson: on rand" 340
		set "timothy radrickson 1 log entry correct"
		conversation
			`During the trip Timothy's spirits and health improved, and by the time you arrive on Rand he seems like a different man. Before he steps out of the airlock he turns to you one more time. "Thank you so much, Captain <last>." He shakes your hand.`
			`	"I mean it, from the bottom of my heart. You've saved my life, and given me hope. I won't forget this; or you. I could never thank you enough."`
			`	His eyes glistening, Timothy turns from you and exits your ship.`


mission "Timothy Radrickson 1a: Accepted"
	landing
	name "Stowaway to <planet>"
	description "You found a man named Timothy on your ship stowed away in a foodstuff crate, on the run from somebody. He would like you to bring him to <destination>, where he can find work."
	destination "Rand"
	to offer
		has "timothy radrickson: agreed"
	on abort
		fail "Timothy Radrickson 1: Stowaway"


event "timothy radrickson: on rand"
event "timothy radrickson: mummy"


mission "Timothy Radrickson 2: mummy"
	landing
	invisible
	to offer
		has "Timothy Radrickson 1: Stowaway: failed"
		has "event: timothy radrickson: mummy"
	on enter

	on enter
		conversation
			`For days there's been an odd lingering scent filtering in from your pressurized cargo, but finally the smell has permeated your command deck. A ship-wide search leads you to a unopened foodstuff crate. Although the crate is unopened, the seal on it appears tampered with and you surmise that the food has gone bad.`
			`	Upon opening it you discover that is in fact, not the case. Instead you discover the decaying body of a dead and forgotten stowaway; the entire crate promptly finds its way to your airlock. Despite the diligent work of your ship's air filters, you can't quite rid the ship of the smell.`


mission "Timothy Radrickson 2: Interlude"
	landing
	to offer
		has "Timothy Radrickson 1: Stowaway: failed"
		has "timothy radrickson: port"
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
	on offer
		conversation
			`Blinking at the light, Timothy shuffles toward the exit. "Th-th-thank you. Thank you so much," Timothy mumbles.`
			`	Timothy opens the hatch and looks back at you. "You s-s-saved my life. I won't forget. I won't."`
			`	With that, Timothy exits your ship and begins his new life.`


mission "Timothy Radrickson 2: Good Interlude"
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Independent" "Pirate" "Neutral"
	landing
	invisible
	to offer
		has "event: timothy radrickson: on rand"
	on offer
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `Timothy kept his promise, sending 50,000 credits to pay for his trip.`
		log `Despite starting over with nothing, Timothy has sent credits for that passage I gave him over a year ago.`
		payment 50000
		set "timothy radrickson 2 log entry correct"
		event "timothy radrickson: governor" 3600
		conversation
			`After your ship touches down you notice a light blinking on your dashboard. You have a cached message waiting for you to play.`
			choice
				`	(Play the message.)`

			`	The screen lights up with a somewhat familiar man, but it is only when you see the name of the sender that you realize that this is the fuller face of a healthy Timothy Radrickson, whom you last met as a stowaway on your ship.`
			`	"Captain <last>. Let me just reiterate my thanks to you for what you did for me. Most captains would have airlocked me, or dropped me off wherever, but you really gave me a chance."`
			`	He stops and grins at the camera for a moment. "And that chance, it really has made all the difference. It's been a year of hard work, but I've saved some money and made some investments, and things really are turning around."`
			`	"By way of thanks," he continues, "I've included <payment> with this message. That should cover the cost of transporting me to Rand, but it doesn't come close to what I really owe. Which is, in all honesty, my very life."`
			`	He pauses, as if he's trying to remember something. "Anyways, thank you again, and know I'll never forget what you did for me."`
			`	Timothy waves, and the video ends.`
				decline


event "timothy radrickson: governor"


mission "Timothy Radrickson 3: Governor Notification"
	name "Visit the Governor of <planet>"
	description "The governor of <planet> has invited you to speak with them."
	to offer
		has "event: timothy radrickson: governor"
		has "main plot completed"
	destination "Rand"
	landing
	on offer
		conversation
			`An indicator light is blinking on your main panel. There is a cached message waiting for you to play.`
			choice
				`	(Play the message.)`
			`	A young woman in very professional clothing appears on the screen. "Captain <last>, I am pleased to inform you that the Governor of Rand requests your presence. Please come to Rand at your earliest convenience.`
				accept

	on complete
		conversation
			`Upon landing you are met by a squat, heavy-set woman in her late forties. She reaches out a calloused hand to shake yours. "Welcome to Rand, Captain <last>. It is a pleasure, and honor, to have someone of your status here on our little world. I am Regina, the mayor of this town, and one of the major company-bosses here. I've been instructed to escort you to the Governor's mansion. I have a vehicle waiting for you just outside the spaceport. Meet me there when you're ready."`


mission "Timothy Radrickson 3a: Rescue the Convoy"
	name "Rescue <origin> convoy"
	description "<origin>'s largest ever convoy was intercepted on its way to Tarazed. Merchants report that a large pirate fleet escorting a freighter convoy went to <destination>. Governor Tim has asked you to try and save it before the pirates can plunder it completely."
	source "Rand"
	priority
	destination "Greenrock"
	deadline 7
	clearance
	to offer
		has "Timothy Radrickson 3: Governor Notification: done"
	on offer
		conversation
			`Regina, her driver, and a sleek black vehicle are all waiting for you outside the worn down and substandard spaceport. You slide into the comfortable seating and look out the window as the dry, ugly landscape of Rand passes you by. From time to time you see a strip mine or a camp of workers' barracks, but rarely anything else. Behind your vehicle there is a huge plume of half-frozen dust. Apparently low gravity and thin topsoil is a terrible combination.`
			`	After an hour of driving you notice the landscape suddenly shift. The first tendrils of greenery invade the otherwise brown-yellow desert. Upon closer inspection, the green plants are accompanied by all manner of technology to help and promote their growth. Money, it seems, is turning just a little bit of this parched place green.`
			`	Beyond the suddenly green hills sits a huge sprawling complex. You recognize a few massive structures outside the building as artificial gravity drives; the same sort of drives ships use to maintain gravity onboard, but for an entire estate.`
			choice
				`	(Say nothing.)`
					goto nothing
				`	(Ask about the artificial gravity drives.)`

			`	Regina flashes a toothy smile. "The gravity here, it is... taxing. The governor's mansion, and a few other important buildings and housing complexes, use artificial gravity drives to make things more manageable for us hard-working 'servants of the state.'" The way she says "servants of the state" makes it sound like some kind of inside joke. She turns away from you before you have a chance to say anything else.`

			label nothing
			`	The vehicle pulls up to a grandiose entrance near the center of the huge structure. An attendant opens the door, and you're ushered outside the vehicle.`
			`	Regina does not get out. She smiles politely through the opened door. "Only you were invited to enter the Governor's Mansion. I am afraid this as far as I am allowed to go. Take care, Captain <last>. It truly was an honor meeting you."`
			`	With that the door shuts, and a few moments later the black vehicle departs, leaving you and the attendant at the mansion's entrance.`
			`	The attendant bows deeply. "Please, Captain <last>. If you would follow me." He turns and heads into the building.`
			choice
				`	(Follow the attendant.)`

			`	Upon entering the mansion you feel your weight shift. It's still a little less than 1 g, but close. There's a young well-dressed woman, the same who you saw in your message, waiting for you inside. The attendant leaves you with her.`
			`	The woman smiles pleasantly. "We are all so pleased you could make it here. Forgive me for not meeting you outside, but I find the gravity of this world distressing. I am Wynnafrith, the governor's executive assistant, and will be pleased to announce that you are here.`
			`	Wynnafrith says a few quiet words into an intercom, and a door behind her opens. "The Governor is ready for you."`
			choice
				`	(Enter the room.)`

			`	You enter a large, richly furnished room. At the center of the room is an imposing desk, with a slightly graying man seated behind it. There is something immediately familiar about his face.`
			`	"Ah, Captain <last>. At last we can meet face to face, and I can thank you properly." The Governor stands. "You may not remember me, for it has been some years since you last laid eyes on me, and," the governor gestures to himself, "I looked quite different back then."`
			`	"I was a stowaway on your ship. You found me in a food crate, and you took me here. I'm Timothy Radrickson, Governor Timothy Radrickson now."`
			`	Timothy sits back down and indicates that you should do the same. "It took me some time. But through some good decisions, and quite a bit of luck, I've been able to claw my way to a level of respectability and wealth. I've really been able to make something of myself."`
			`	His face opens up into a large grin. "Then again, compared to what you've done in all this time, my successes hardly register. Still, as meager as they may be, I owe it all to you and your kind gesture. Which is why I've invited you here, to thank you and pay you back properly."`
			`	Timothy taps a display on his desk. "First, I am transferring 125,000 credits to your account to pay you back for the crate of food, the fuel, and the additional expenses of taking care of me on your ship; plus interest, of course."`
			choice
				`	(Accept the money.)`
					goto "money accept"
				`	(Refuse the money.)`

			`	You begin to refuse the generous offer, but Timothy holds up a hand to stop you. "I am doing quite well, and this discharges a debt that has been weighing on me. Besides, the money's already been sent!"`

			label "money accept"
			`	Timothy pulls out a bottle beneath his desk and two glass cups. "To celebrate our reunion."`
			`	He pours the brown liquid in the cups and pushes one to you. "Things have gone well for me, and are only going to get better from here on out."`
			`	He takes a sip and says, "We've just launched our largest freighter fleet to date." He sits back in his desk, relaxed, and gets a dreamy look in his eyes. "When it returns from Wayfarer, the government of Rand will finally have enough credits to make some real changes around here. Give something back to the working man."`
			choice
				`	"Congratulations Timothy. You're really outdone yourself."`
				`	(Take a sip from your glass.)`
				`	"Don't forget your humble beginnings, Timothy. The workers here seem to be suffering, while the rich thrive."`
				`	"You're proof that hard work is all it takes to succeed. I don't know how you can stand living on a world filled with lazy workers all demanding hand outs."`

			`	His eyes refocus on you. "You'd be proud, <first>. I am going to make a real difference here..."`
			`	Timothy is suddenly interrupted by an incessant notification coming from his desk. He glowers and says, "Excuse me for a moment, <last>," sits up straight, turns on his ear piece and answers the call.`
			`	"What?!" He nearly shouts after ten seconds of listening, followed by "How can that be?" and finally, "What about the Navy or the militias, where are they!?" His face goes from red to white as the color drains out of him, and he finishes the call with a few unhappy "uh huhs" before finally hanging up.`
			`	"Never mind." He rubs his forehead and closes his eyes before saying, "Rand's future is gone. It's just been hijacked by marauders."`
			`	He stands up and starts pacing around the room. "I'm sorry. We're going to have to cut this reunion short. Our freighter fleet, filled to the brim with all of Rand's mineral wealth, has been taken. To make matters worse, in order to make this shipment happen I had to hire a private outfit from the Deep, and neither the Navy nor the Free Worlds militias are going to intervene on their behalf. Which means this entire world, and myself, are finished."`
			`	He collapses back in his chair with his head in his hands. "I'm sorry. There will be a car waiting for you at the entrance."`
			choice
				`	"I could help you recover the fleet."`
					goto "help tim"
				`	(Apologize for his predicament and leave.)`
				`	(Leave without saying anything.)`

			label nope
			`	The doors behind you open back up, and you are led back outside to a waiting vehicle. You ride it in silence through the dust-thick landscape, back to the dirty, shabby spaceport where your ship awaits.`
				decline

			label "help tim"
			`	Timothy jerks up to look at you, his eyes wide and searching. "Really? I... Rand... we don't have anything left to pay you, and who knows how dangerous those marauders are... but we'll take any help we can get if you're up for it."`
			choice
				`	(Agree to help.)`
					goto "agree help"
				`	(Back out.)`

			`	The light drains from his eyes and he nods tiredly. "I understand."`
				goto nope

			label "agree help"
			`	Color returns to Timothy's face and he immediately straightens up. "Hroar's Haulers were contracted to deliver our freight to Wayfarer. We lost contact with them in the Peacock system. There was a report from some local merchants who sighted a large group of marauders in Lesath escorting a freighter fleet in merchant colors. They tracked their movements to Shaula."`
			`	He frowns as he considers something, then says, "If you hurry, you might be able to get there before they've had time to move the goods or deal with their crews... no more than a week at most... but who knows, they're pirates." Timothy hits a few more buttons on his display screen, then he continues, "I've just sent your ship the tracking beacon for our fleet. It should help you find them once you're in Greenrock's atmosphere."`
			`	"I am sorry I can't offer you more help." He stands up and hits the button opening up the exit door. "But, please, save that fleet."`
				accept

	on decline
		event "timothy radrickson imprisoned" 400


mission "Timothy Radrickson 3b: Pirate Base"
	landing
	name "Defeat the pirate fleet"
	description "Destroy the pirate fleet that is holding Rand's convoy hostage, then try and recover it."
	source "Greenrock"
	clearance
	to offer
		has "Timothy Radrickson 3a: Rescue the Convoy: done"
	on offer
		conversation
			`Your ship skims Greenrock's choppy atmosphere and your terrestrial navigation computer suddenly hums to life as it picks up the lost freighter fleet's tracking beacon. It locks on to a large encampment situated in a valley a bit under fifty kilometers northeast of the planetary spaceport - close enough to do business, but far enough away to maintain strict security.`
			`	As you approach the beacon's ping from the safety of the hills around the valley, you survey the base from afar. It clearly appears to be built around a set of underground blast doors, from where the beacon - and presumably the fleet - is located. Your ship also identifies numerous parked pirate vessels inside and outside the base.`
			`	The pirates haven't realized you're hostile yet, and you have an opportunity to seize the initiative and do a surprise attack. Or, you could get closer and continue surveying the base to see if there's any way in.`
			choice
				`	(Do a surprise attack!)`
					to display
						"armament deterrence" > 0
					goto surprise
				`	(Get closer.)`
				`	(Hail the pirates and use diplomacy.)`
					goto diplomacy
				`	(This is too dangerous. Leave.)`
					flee

			`	Getting as far as you can toward the base without compromising your position, you notice the base is surrounded by an array of laser turrets and ground-to-air missile systems, which makes further approach highly risky. Furthermore, the ships outside the base appear to be highly modified. You don't see any other entrance to the base, however; it looks like you'll have to force the pirates out, one way or another.`
			`	It still seems as if the pirates don't see you. With a little movement, you could strafe the encampment and take out a fair few of the parked ships if you can avoid the turrets.`
			choice
				`	(Strafe the parked pirate vessels.)`
					to display
						"armament deterrence" > 0
				`	(Hail the pirates and use diplomacy.)`
					goto diplomacy
				`	(This is too dangerous. Leave.)`
					flee

			action
				set "diminished greenrock pirate fleet"
			`	Carefully maneuvering into position, your ship flies out of the hills that hid it and lets loose a withering barrage over the parked pirate vessels. You manage to destroy a number of the ships while their shields are down, before the defense turrets force you to fly back up into space as the surviving ships sortie after you.`
				launch

			label diplomacy
			action
				set "big greenrock pirate fleet"
				set "Timothy Radrickson 3b: diplomacy"
			`	You broadcast a message to the ships parked in the encampment, declaring that you wish them no harm and inviting them to parley over the Rand convoy.`
			`	Their only response is to launch their entire fleet after you. You're forced back into space to fight them.`
				launch

			label surprise
			action
				set "big greenrock pirate fleet"
			`	You shunt your thrusters to full speed and fly into the valley, straight for the largest cluster of parked ships outside the blast doors.`
			`	That is, until your sensors run hot with a multitude of approaching enemy warnings and missile locks. Without the protection of the hills that were hiding your ship, it looks like the pirates' early warning system detected you before you could get into position to attack. You're forced to turn back as an entire fleet of marauders fire up their engines and chase you into space.`
				launch

	on visit
		dialog `There are still marauder ships flying overhead. Take off and defeat them before finding the fleet.`

	npc kill
		to spawn
			has "big greenrock pirate fleet"
		government "Pirate"
		personality launching nemesis target plunders
		fleet
			names "pirate"
			variant
				"Marauder Falcon (Engines)"
				"Falcon (Javelin)"
				"Marauder Firebird (Weapons)"
				"Firebird"

				"Marauder Raven"
				"Modified Argosy (Gatling)" 2
				"Osprey (Missile)"

				"Hawk (Plasma)"
				"Quicksilver" 2
				"Headhunter"
				"Fury (Gatling)" 3
		on kill
			dialog "After destroying the last of the marauder ships you feel you can safely return to the base."

	npc kill
		to spawn
			has "diminished greenrock pirate fleet"
		government "Pirate"
		personality launching nemesis target plunders
		fleet
			names "pirate"
			variant
				"Marauder Falcon (Engines)"
				"Falcon (Javelin)"
				"Marauder Firebird (Weapons)"
				"Firebird"

				"Modified Argosy (Gatling)"
				"Osprey (Missile)"

				"Hawk (Plasma)"
				"Fury (Gatling)"
		on kill
			dialog "After destroying the last of the marauder ships you feel you can safely return to the base."

mission "Timothy Radrickson 3c: Escort the Convoy"
	landing
	name "Escort the Convoy"
	description "Escort the Hroar's Haulers Convoy from <origin> to <destination>."
	source "Greenrock"
	destination "Wayfarer"
	to offer
		has "Timothy Radrickson 3b: Pirate Base: done"
	on offer
		conversation
			`The sky burns red as detritus from the fierce battle rains down on Greenrock. The destruction of a major pirate gang's fleet has resulted in panic and chaos over the region as rival pirate groups battle it out in the skies to claim the defeated's turf. Although a few ships take pot shots at you as you descend into the atmosphere, everybody is too busy brawling to notice you as you approach the pirates' encampment from where you still register the ping of the beacon.`
			`	The valley where the encampment is located, however, is surprisingly quiet, though it's similarly littered with the remains of small ships. As you move towards it you notice that the blast doors of the underground base have been opened. What you also notice is that the defense turrets are all still working and are very much trained upon you.`
			choice
				`	(Hail the occupants of the base.)`
				`	(Approach the base.)`
					goto approach
				`	(Leave.)`
					flee

			`	"This is Captain <last>, commander of the <ship>," you say. "We have defeated the fleet that occupies this base and demand entry. Disable your turrets or we will fire upon them."`
			branch "did it already"
				has "Timothy Radrickson 3b: diplomacy"

			`	You receive a response promptly. "And what makes you think we will let ya' in?"`
				goto next

			label "did it already"
			`	This time, you get a response promptly. "And what makes you think we will let ya' in?"`
				goto next

			label approach
			`	You advance towards the encampment for about five seconds before you receive a hail coming from behind the blast doors. "Hey, hey! What makes you think we'll let ya' in?"`

			label next
			choice
				`	"Right of conquest."`
					goto right
				`	"Because I defeated your fleet."`
					goto "defeated your fleet"
				`	"Because I'm here to rescue the Rand convoy, and you can't stop me."`

			`	You hear a hearty laugh from the other end. "What makes you think they're still here?" the voice replies.`
				goto inside

			label right
			`	You hear a hearty laugh from the other end. "Right of conquest? I thought you were here to save us!" the voice replies.`
				goto inside

			label "defeated your fleet"
			`	You hear a hearty laugh from the other end. "That fleet? Just a trifle. We've got the Sol Home Fleet behind these doors," the voice replies.`

			label inside
			`	A moment passes before it says, "We're just pulling your leg, <last>. We can see your tracking beacon reflecting our own, so we know it's you. Come on in." The turrets shortly depower and you gently put your ship down through the blast doors.`
			`	Inside the bay's walls you can make out the moored and apparently intact freighter fleet. The ships are surrounded by various loaders, but they appear to have been abandoned before they could begin the process of offloading the goods. The pirates must have been too busy going after you.`
			`	As you exit your ship a woman wearing a captain's hat approaches you and then flashes a reluctant smile at you. "Name's Hrodny. Capt'n Hrodny of Hroar's Haulers. You probably heard Alan on the radio," she says, flicking her eyes to the control room.`
			`	"Well, thanks for the distraction. Once you got the fleet out of here we overpowered what little detail they kept here and took control of the turrets." She looks around to the blast doors where the depowered turrets once guarded. "Been waitin' for the right moment to move outta this place."`
			`	Hrodny turns her piercing green eyes back on you. "We got 'em in here easy, but we can't fight past whatever is out there. I'm presuming you're not just a lost mercenary and are in fact our cavalry?"`
			choice
				`	"Don't worry. I can escort your fleet to Wayfarer."`
				`	"It's your lucky day. Getting you to Wayfarer will be a piece of cake."`
				`	"I've been sent to get you to Wayfarer, and that's what I will do."`
				`	"You do your job. I'll do mine."`

			`	Hrodny grins. "Great. We weren't too keen on stickin' around these parts anyhow."`
			`	She looks back at her ships, whistles, and points toward the ships. A group of Haulers turn and run toward them, preparing them for takeoff. She then looks back at you. "Ya know, those pirates parked us right in the middle of their treasure trove. It'd be rude not take advantage of their hospitality." You notice the loaders behind Hrodny whirring around and moving all sorts of goods into the ships, while a number of crew are draining the base's deuterium tanks and filling up the ships inside.`
			`	"Hazard pay," Hrodny says, winking at you. "You head back your ship, and by the time you get there we'll be ready to launch. We'll follow ya out."`
			`	She gives you a final mock salute and then turns and jogs toward her ships. There's nothing for you to do but head back toward yours.`
				accept

	on complete
		conversation
			`The freighter fleet sets down to some minor fanfare; there are likely more than a few middlemen here who would have been hard-pressed by the loss of the fleet's valuable cargo.`
			`	Not long after landing, Captain Hrodny seeks you out. "Didn't have much time back there for pleasantries, but gotta say I am mighty thankful you showed up when you did."`
			`	She extends her hand to you.`
			choice
				`	(Shake Hrodny's hand.)`
					goto shake
				`	(Don't shake her hand.)`

			`	She shrugs and withdraws her hand. "Different customs I suppose."`
			`	Hrodny pauses for a moment, then says, "Gotta say you handled yourself well out there. Always good to see a capt'n worth more than the dust on their boots." She gives you an approving nod.`
				goto "next up"

			label shake
			`	Her hand vigorously shakes yours. "Gotta say you handled yourself well out there. Always good to see a capt'n worth more than the dust on their boots." She gives you an approving nod.`

			label "next up"
			`	"I got word from Rand they are more than a little pleased with your heroics. They'd like you to head on over to the spaceport on Rand when you can. Probably have some credits or a photo op or something fancy and tedious waiting for you."`
			`	She shrugs, and winks, "Anyways, I got plenty of work that needs doing. Take care of yourself, Capt'n."`
			`	With that she heads back to her freighter fleet.`

	npc accompany save
		government "Merchant" # 3880 cargo capacity
		personality escort timid
		ship "Behemoth" "H.H.H. Gullveig's Revenge"
		ship "Hauler" "H.H.H. Hard and Fast"
		ship "Hauler" "H.H.H. Red Rambler"
		ship "Hauler III" "H.H.H. Heavy Haulage"
		ship "Hauler III" "H.H.H. Hroar's Heavy Hitter"
		ship "Hauler II" "H.H.H. First Last Chance"
		ship "Hauler II" "H.H.H. Lucky Hauler"
		ship "Mule" "H.H.H. Herald of Vermilion"
		ship "Boxwing" "H.H.H. Dirt-In-My-Eye"
		ship "Bulk Freighter" "H.H.H. Cardinal Conveyor"
		ship "Bulk Freighter" "H.H.H. Muspel Zipper"
		ship "Freighter" "H.H.H. Ruby Rails"
		ship "Freighter" "H.H.H. Dusty Boots"


mission "Timothy Radrickson 3d: Return to Rand"
	landing
	name "Return to Rand"
	source "Wayfarer"
	destination "Rand"
	to offer
		has "Timothy Radrickson 3c: Escort the Convoy: done"
	on complete
		conversation
			`Instead of Regina you are met by Timothy's executive secretary, Wynnafrith. She is clearly a little uncomfortable in Rand's low gravity, but is doing her best to push through it.`
			`	"Captain <last>! You're the talk of the world! The savior of Rand." She gives you an open and earnest smile.`
			`	"I've been sent by the Governor to drive you straight to his estate. Please come with me."`
			choice
				`	(Go to the Governor's Mansion.)`

			`	In the evening the passing landscape is too dark to see, so instead you focus on the glittering stars overhead. Eventually your ride slows as you seem to be caught up in traffic near the Governor's mansion. As you approach you pass streets crowded with parked personal vehicles.`
			`	The mansion is lit up with dozens of flood lights, and brimming with fabulously dressed people. Wynnafrith turns her vehicle over to a valet and opens your door to let you out.`
			`	She gives you a mischievous grin. "Apologies, Captain <last>. I forgot to mention the Governor was holding a little get-together. Please follow me."`
			choice
				`	(Follow Wynnafrith.)`
			`	She leads you through an army of valets, waiters, and attendants as you weave in and out of the various rooms and halls. Many of the guests appear to recognize you and offer you earnest congratulations. Eventually you are ushered to the table of honor where Wynnafrith introduces you to a half dozen company bosses, senior executives, political operatives, and the like. You notice Regina here as well, but she is seated at a table in the back, on the fringes of the upper crust of society.`
			`	Not long after being seated Governor Timothy appears, and after making small talk with many of the gathered illuminaries, sits beside you. "I have something to admit," he says quietly to you.`
			`	He gives you a sheepish smile and says, "This is a celebration in your honor, Hero of Rand."`
			choice
				`	"Hero of Rand?"`
				`	"What do you mean?"`
				`	"So you lied to me."`
			`	He shrugs. "I just thought it would be more fun this way. Who doesn't like surprises?"`
			`	"Without you the entire planet would have defaulted. Our creditors were circling like vultures eager to assume ownership of all our production capabilities, and turn the population into indentured servants. The whole world would have been their debtor's prison."`
			`	He pauses to consider his words. "I mean, the language they would have used would be different, but that is what it would have amounted to. But you saved us, and more than that, we're now quite a bit more wealthy than we were before."`
			`	Timothy snatches a glass and holds it up to you and says, "From ruin to riches! The Hero of Rand!"`
			`	A few others lift their glasses as well. They clink and Timothy then gulps the whole thing down, and after that the group breaks apart into smaller conversations.`
			`	Eventually, the party settles down and Timothy leaves you to step up to the podium. He launches into a speech highlighting your career. The great changes you have wrought, the battles you have won, the legends of your ship. The crowd eats it all up, many having heard of some, or all of these exploits. But then Timothy takes a more somber note. He talks quietly about the troubles on his old world. On how as a starving, homeless fugitive he had recklessly hidden aboard the first ship he could find. How you had found him, half dead, in an empty crate. And how, instead of tossing him out an airlock, or dropping off at the nearest world, you took him where he asked. How you took care of him, and how through your generosity, you had given him a second chance.`
			`	Light reflects off the tears that cling to Timothy's eyes as he tells the assembled crowd that, for him, that was your greatest moment, your most heroic action, that nothing you've done, or ever will do, compares to that simple act of mercy. And that this, to him, alone, is what makes you great.`
			`	From here his story shifts to your selfless offer to help save Rand, even though they could promise no reward, of your stunning victory over Greenrock, and your daring liberation of the fleet on the ground. He ends with you triumphant, and Rand saved.`
			`	The assembled guests stand, clap and cheer. They look at you, at your seat of honor, and raise their glasses to you. Eventually as the cheers and hoots die down, the Governor declares you a Hero of Rand, and thanks you for your service.`
			choice
				`	(Say a few words.)`
				`	(Mingle with the crowd.)`
					goto mingle
				`	(Skip the party.)`
					goto skip

			`	You walk up to the podium, past the governor and turn to address the assembled guests.`
			choice
				`	(Humbly thank them.)`
					goto "thank them"
				`	(Tell them it is well deserved.)`
					goto deserved
				`	(Dress them down for being capitalist pigs.)`

			`	You address the crowd. You compliment them on how well dressed they all are, how lavish this mansion is, how wealthy they all appear. They clap, and laugh at your apt observations. But, then you talk about how poor, dirty, and shabby things are outside of this mansion, with its fake gravity, and fake greenery. You declare you want no praise from them, no flattery, and no accolades. There are a million Heroes of Rand, outside these baroque walls, toiling away in dirty, dangerous mines. All for what? So that these company-bosses and fat-cat politicians can pat each other on the back and live in obscene luxury in the middle of a squalid world? You rail, you rant, you break them down, and you dare them to do something about it. Instead of angry shouts, or acidic boos, you are met with condescending indifference. Even the serving staff look bored, as though they've heard it all before. Finally, your speech ends with not with applause, or even angry glares, but with the sounds of numerous muffled conversations. You've been forgotten, and ignored.`
			`	Before you have time to say more, Timothy and Wynnafrith have whisked you away from the podium. Timothy, clearly embarrassed by your speech, helps you into an unmarked vehicle that takes you away from the party, and back toward the spaceport and your ship.`
				decline

			label "thank them"
			`	You thank your host, and the assembled notables for their gracious fanfare. You note, however, that you are just one person, and you've done nothing that any one else in your shoes wouldn't have done. The guests clap as you step away from the podium.`
				goto mingle

			label deserved
			`	You launch into a speech about how you alone are special. How most people are cold and empty robots, but that a fire burns inside your breast. That you are the linchpin that the entire galaxy hinges on, and that every human from here to Farpoint owes their future to you. The crowd's excitement wanes and a smattering of lackluster applause punctuates the end of your speech.`
				goto mingle

			label skip
			action
				log `Despite starting with nothing, Timothy had somehow become the powerful and well respected governor of an entire world. He made his own way on Rand and became its civic ruler, but he also didn't forget my help. Was invited to a lavish celebration and named the Hero of Rand.`
				"salary: Hero of Rand" = 200
				payment 1000000
				set "timothy radrickson 3 log entry correct"
				event "timothy radrickson imprisoned" 400
			`	You excuse yourself from the table and duck into the first empty room you find. You sit in one of the comfortable chairs; you notice a large wooden desk covered in screens and ledgers. You can still hear the muffled sounds of laughter, speeches, and general chatter from behind the walls. You sit for a while in a dark meditative silence.`
			`	After a while, a gentle knock on the door and Timothy pushes his way into the room.`
			`	"I see you've found my office, Captain <last>. I'd like to apologize. I was hoping you'd appreciate the party, but, I realize it's not exactly everyone's scene. There's more then a few vipers in that crowd, and there are things I've had to do for them I am not proud of..." He trails off.`
			`	"But still, I'm glad you're here. Even tucked away in my office. I wanted to let you know that there are credits associated with tonight's prize. You will be given 1 million credits and a daily stipend of 200 credits, as a gift from Rand, and more specifically, from me.`
				goto "jump skip"

			label mingle
			action
				log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `Timothy has since become the governor of Rand.`
				log `Despite starting with nothing, Timothy had somehow become the powerful and well respected governor of an entire world. He made his own way on Rand and became its civic ruler, but he also didn't forget my help. Was invited to a lavish celebration and named the Hero of Rand.`
				"salary: Hero of Rand" = 200
				payment 1000000
				event "timothy radrickson imprisoned" 400
			`	With the speeches done, you mingle with the crowd, making small talk with various dignitaries and company-bosses. You even say a few words to Regina. Everyone is pleased to meet you, and a few people ask for your autograph. Finally, Timothy makes his way to you and takes you to a quieter room off to the side.`
			`	"Captain <last>, I hope you've found the night agreeable. I've noticed you have your fair share of fans here. I also wanted to let you know that there is cash associated with tonight's reward. You will be given 1 million credits and a daily stipend of 200 credits, as a gift from Rand, and more specifically, from me."`
			
			label "jump skip"
			`	Timothy pats you on the back. "Just another way for me to thank you for saving me all those years ago, and now my world as well."`
			`	You nod politely, and your eyes scan the wall of his office. You see pictures of your ship, and you, from various news articles, printed and framed along the walls."`
			choice
				`	"Thanks for inviting me. I've had a great time."`
					goto thanks
				`	"Are you a stalker?"`

			`	Timothy puts his glass down and holds his hands out pleading. "No, no. It's not like that."`
			`	He gestures towards the images on the wall. "I had no family, I had no... past. My life, my life started with you. This is my way of celebrating my past. No, don't you worry, I am not infatuated or anything."`
			`	You realize that it has been almost a decade since you heard from him last.`
			choice
				`	"Thanks for inviting me. I've had a great time."`
				`	(Go back to your ship.)`
					goto ship

			label thanks
			`	"Oh, it's nothing compared to what you did for me. What you saved me from, and what you did to bring me here. And then how you bailed me and Rand out again." Timothy glances away from you, as if embarrassed all he did tonight wasn't enough.`
			choice
				`	(Keep talking with Timothy.)`
				`	(Excuse yourself and go back to your ship.)`
					goto ship

			`	You talk with him for hours. About his life on Rand, the hardships of the mines, how he clawed his way out of it. But also about you, the challenges of running a ship, the battles, the close calls, and the joys of triumph.`
			`	As you talk you come to realize there is a sadness at the edges of Timothy's stories about being governor. His words seem tinged with regret, though he says nothing specifically regretful. You get the feeling he isn't telling you the whole story.`

			label end
			`	As the sun rises your conversation winds to a close. Timothy escorts you back to a waiting vehicle and you say your farewells. The dark vehicle drives off into the bright desert, leaving behind an island of green and warmth.`
				decline

			label ship
			`	Timothy acquiesces and escorts you back to a waiting vehicle, and you say your farewells. The dark vehicle drives off into the bright desert, leaving behind an island of green and warmth.`
				decline


event "timothy radrickson imprisoned"


mission "Timothy Radrickson 4: Imprisoned"
	to offer
		has "event: timothy radrickson imprisoned"
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
	destination "Oblivion"
	deadline 1800
	invisible
	on offer
		conversation
			`As you stroll through the spaceport, a name blaring on a nearby news screen catches your attention.`
			choice
				`	(Watch the news.)`
					goto news
				`	(Ignore it.)`
			`	You keep walking. It's probably nothing worth your time.`
				decline
			label news
			`	You turn to check out the screen. The talking heads are discussing some sort of huge scandal and the arrest of a prominent governor.`
			`	"That's right, Ann," the anchor on the screen says. "With 8 counts of tax evasion, racketeering, and various corruption charges, Timothy Radrickson - former Governor of Rand - will likely spend the next 20 years behind bars."`
			`	"Where he's going there will be no bars, Tom," Ann quips. "They plan to send him to a work detail on Oblivion."`
			`	Tom gives that sort of news anchor laugh that's neither committal nor haughty. "In that case, forget what I said about 20 years. Anything more than 5 years on Oblivion is a life sentence."`
			`	Both news anchors laugh, and then segue into a story about highly intelligent ferrets that have learned to sing in German.`
				accept
	on complete
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `Charged with corruption and mired in scandal, Timothy has been disgraced and exiled to Oblivion.`
		log `Oblivion had not been kind to Timothy. The last time he had been seen alive he was dying the slow, toxic death that world is famed for. Asked me to help him.`
		set "timothy radrickson 4 log entry correct"
		event "rad tim dead" 1
		conversation
			`Your ship descends through the beautiful, toxic horizon and lands in the dirty, dismal spaceport outside of the provincial capital, Tukayyid. The clumped together warehouses they liberally call a spaceport are used as a central clearing house by all on-world industries, and workers from every industry filter in and out of this never-ending boom town. In the shadows, and on the fringes, the sick and infirm linger, looking for a handout; the price of progress on such a hostile world.`
			`	Among the crowd one face draws your attention. A worker, unsupervised, is moving around a trolley of minerals by your ship as you have it refueled. His complexion is sallow, and his skin seems to droop off his bones. His blood red eyes, noticing your attention, languidly rise to look at you. Despite the damage, you realize you recognize him.`
			`	"Captain <last>," he says, suffering a coughing fit. There's now red specks on his lips.`
			`	"It's me. Timothy, remember? Boy, it's been a while. I'm a prisoner now. Chain-ganged here. Probably until the end." He spits his words out in short bursts, careful not to start coughing again.`
			choice
				`	"I'm sorry, Timothy."`
				`	"Is there any way I can help?"`
				`	"Shouldn't have broken the law."`
			`	"I could use your help. Just to buy some things. Might help." His red eyes glance side to side before he says, conspiratorially, "Meet me tonight in the spaceport. Outside the Stephenson warehouse. Stephenson. I'll tell you what I need."`
			`	With that, he returns to moving the mineral trolley, leaving you to yourself.`

event "rad tim dead"

mission "Timothy Radrickson 5a: Timshank Redemption"
	name "Meet Tim's contact on <planet>"
	description "Tim would like you to collect some supplies for him, but first he asked you to meet someone on <stopovers> who could help you out. Tim has 18 days (<date>) before he is reassigned to a camp down south."
	cargo "Tim's equipment" 1
	deadline 18
	source Oblivion
	stopover Rand
	to complete
		"timothy radrickson medicine" >= 1
		"timothy radrickson suit" >= 1
		"timothy radrickson id" >= 1
	to offer
		has "Timothy Radrickson 4: Imprisoned: done"
		not "event: rad tim dead"
	on offer
		conversation
			`Even after donning a particulate mask, Oblivion's toxic atmosphere is so thick it seems as if you could swallow it; it doesn't help that the air somehow feels even denser at night. The warehouse marked "Stephenson Heavy Industries" turns out to be at the very edge of the spaceport's boundary, and all you see when you get there is a lone box truck parked in the loading bay.`
			choice
				`	(Approach the truck.)`
				`	(Leave. Tim doesn't deserve another chance.)`
					goto leave

			`	By the truck you make out the silhouette of a man heaving heavy equipment in the dim light of the loading bay. He turns to look at you as you come closer.`
			`	"Captain?"`
			choice
				`	"It's me, <last>."`
				`	(Say nothing, turn away and leave.)`
					goto leave

			`	Timothy leans against the nearest wall, and for a moment the only noise in the darkness is his ragged breathing. Finally he says, "In a couple of weeks I go south. Far side of the world. I'll last maybe months. Probably less. I need a chance. I need to get out."`
			`	His voice gets more animated as he speaks and he nearly launches into another coughing fit before catching himself and taking several uneven breaths. "They're watching me. I can't leave with you. But with the right supplies. Right tools. I can make it."`
			`	His red eyes rimmed with bloody tears look directly into yours. "Please. Don't let me die here. At least.. give me a chance."`
			choice
				`	"Alright. What do you need?"`
					goto agree
				`	(Refuse to help him.)`

			`	You shake your head slowly. "I'm sorry, Timothy. But you broke the law, and this is your punishment. My hands are tied. Maybe when you're out we'll reconnect."`
			`	What little strength he has seems to deflate, a crimson tear winds down his cracked face. "When I'm out?" He almost laughs, "When I'm out!"`
			`	He turns his face towards the truck, before looking back at you. "Goodbye, old friend."`
			`	The weak, broken man returns to loading up the heavy equipment, slower than before.`
				decline

			label agree
			`	Looking sideways first, Timothy takes a piece of yellowed paper from his pocket and hastily writes something down on it before handing it to you. "Have to go off world. Here's a list of what I need. Go to Rand first - address on paper. Norwen mines. Old friend. She will point you in the right direction."`
			`	He abruptly turns away from you and goes back to loading equipment, but slower now, buying for time.`
			`	"Eighteen days," he says wearily. "Then I go south. Lost in the maze of rigs." He pauses before saying more quietly, "and then I die." He looks back at you one last time. "Always owe you." His face cracks in one painful looking grin. "Good luck, my good friend."`
			`	As you walk away from the Stephenson warehouse you take a look at his list. Initially it's various survival items; backpacks, camping equipment and the like. There's also a specialized survival suit, and some heavy duty detoxification medication here as well. More alarmingly, however, are the industrial chemical compounds that would easily create a bomb, not to mention the gun at the bottom.`
			`	You're not sure exactly what his crimes were, but you seem to recall them being mostly white-collar. Yet, you could potentially be arming a terrorist with these items.`
			choice
				`	(Keep the list.)`
					goto keep
				`	(Throw away the list.)`

			`	You toss the crumpled list into the trash and leave Timothy to his fate.`
				decline

			label keep
			`	You decide to give Timothy another chance. You put the list back into your pocket and walk back to your ship.`
				accept

			label leave
			`	As you walk away, you hear the sound of a large garage door shuttering, the racket reverberating around the yard, followed shortly by the rumble of a truck's unhealthy engine revving up for a one way trip.`
				decline

	on stopover
		conversation
			`The Norwen mines are on no current map, and your initial searches for it come up empty. Eventually you're able to find an old news article about a company mining town by the name of Norwen that attempted to unionize, and how the authorities heroically and humanely put down the uprising. The article briefly mentions that the mine was closed down shortly afterward for unrelated reasons. You're able to use the information from the article and the shakily scrawn partial address that Timothy wrote down to get a good idea where to find the mine.`
			`	As your ship approaches the mine you can't help but notice the burnt out remains of a gutted and abandoned town. A few minutes later your ship rattles down outside the mine's entrance.`
			choice
				`	(Leave your ship.)`
			`	It's dark and dusty outside. The planet's low gravity makes you feel languid, and the air uncomfortably light in your lungs. The entrance to the mine looms large before you and seems suddenly quite menacing. Perhaps this wasn't the best idea...`
			`	"Don't move, or we will end you!" comes a shout from within the darkness of the mine. "Identify yourself, now!"`
			choice
				`	"I'm Captain <last>, veteran of the human civil war!"`
					goto "tims bud"
				`	"I'm a friend of Timothy Radrickson!"`
					goto "tims bud"
				`	"I'm the Hero of Rand!"`
					goto "tims bud"
					to display
						has "Timothy Radrickson 3d: Return to Rand: done"
				`	"I'm just a merchant! My name's Captain <last>!"`
					goto "tims bud"
				`	"Mind your own business, I answer to no one!"`
				`	(Run back to your ship.)`
					goto "to the ship"

			`	Your response is followed by a short moment of stunned silence, a snicker, and then the click of a trigger.`
			`	There is a brief, almost pleasant, moment of calm as the inevitability of the situation sinks in... unfortunately, that is the last moment of calm you ever experience, as your body is riddled with bullet rounds mere seconds later.`
				die

			label "tims bud"
			`	There is a brief, low conversation, followed by what sounds like a voice on a radio. Then finally, "If you're who you say you are, how did you first meet Governor Radrickson?"`
			choice
				`	"I ran into him at the Rand spaceport."`
				`	"He sent me a message that he wanted to meet me."`
				`	"I found him in an old equipment locker."`
				`	"He was hiding in a food crate on my ship."`
					goto right

			`	You hear someone swear and say, "We gotta move now! Everything we can't carry, burn; they're onto us!" Some commotion ensues and you hear a few individuals run into the cave.`
			`	The remaining guard hears something on the radio and then says, "No loose ends. Got it."`
			choice
				`	(Run after them into the cave.)`
				`	(Run back to your ship.)`
					goto "to the ship"
			`	You run straight for the cave, hand on pistol and heart racing. Unfortunately for you, instead of the cave you run right into a bullet. The last thing you see is the guard's dirtied face looking over your body before he finishes the job.`
				die

			label "to the ship"
			`	You turn around and dash back to your ship, and find that a few bullet rounds followed you as well. You quickly take off, expecting ships to come after you; however, none do.`
				flee

			label right
			`	Despite not being able to see your potential assailants you can feel an immediate shift in the tension.`
			`	"Good," one of them says, seemingly more to themselves than to you. "That's real good." You hear a loud sigh and then, "Alright, Hero of Rand, you're good to approach. The boss wants to see you."`
				to display
					has "Timothy Radrickson 3d: Return to Rand: done"
			`	Dark shapes materialize from the corners of the entrance, and one of them gently ushers you forward further into the oppressive atmosphere of the old mine.`
			choice
				`	(Follow them into the mine.)`

			`	You walk in darkness over uneven terrain for what seems like hours before seeing the first glimmers of light.`
			`	The dull fluorescent lights reveal a small group of haggard young men and women moonlighting as soldiers. There is nothing uniform about the costumes they are wearing, and what little equipment they have looks old, broken or cobbled together. Everything stinks, and the people themselves look stoned, miserable or both.`
			`	Finally your escort stops outside a door built into the cavern walls. "She's just in here. Behave."`
			choice
				`	(Walk inside.)`

			`	The woman before you is middle-aged and unusually gaunt, with the hollowed out appearance of a person who's lived too long in Rand's frail gravity. She's attractive though, and there is something very familiar about her face. You've met her before...`
			`	"Captain <last>!" she says with a genuine grin. "I doubt you recognize me, but I was Governor Radrickson's secretary, Wynnafrith. We met years back at your banquet."`
			`	She glances down at herself as if recognizing her body's transformation from healthy offworlder to Rander waif. "I dare say the world has changed me now that I'm away from the gravity generators.`
			`	"Although I am no longer a secretary, I am Union-Colonel Wynnafrith, one of the leaders of the Underground Workers Union!" Her eyes sparkle and her words ring with a deadly seriousness.`
			`	She tilts her head slightly. "But that's enough about me. What possible reason could you have for coming here?" Her face is open and friendly, but she casually rests her hand on her side arm.`
			choice
				`	(Tell her about Timothy.)`
					goto Timmy
				`	(Tell her you just wanted to say hi.)`
				`	(Tell her it is none of her business.)`

			`	She frowns and aims her gun squarely at your chest. "It's been too long since I've last seen you. And though you were once Governor Radrickson's friend, things have changed quite a bit since then."`
			`	She gives you a nonchalant shrug. "If that's all you have to say, then I am afraid there is no good reason to let you leave here alive." She favors you with a brief smile. "Operational security, you know how it goes."`
			`	She switches off the safety.`
			choice
				`	"Wait! Timothy sent me!"`
					goto "say so"
				`	"Take your best shot."`
			`	She does indeed take her best shot, and the sudden hole in your torso proves to be quite terminal.`
				die

			label "say so"
				`	She shakes her head. "Well, why didn't you just say so? What does our Governor ask of us?" She holsters her sidearm.`

			label Timmy
			`	Union-Colonel Wynnafrith's eyes get misty as you tell her about Timothy's plight. She shakes her head a few times and then takes the list from you and carefully scrutinizes it.`
			`	"Ya know, to us he's still the Governor. Don't believe what the company-bosses and their paid politicians tell you. He was a good man." She wipes her eyes for a moment. "All he was trying to do was improve the conditions for workers here on Rand. He'd come up from the mines and he knew what it was like."`
			`	Her free hand tightens into a ball. "The big men didn't like that. But what about the profit margins? They tried to bribe him, to offer him anything he wanted, to just leave things well enough alone. To let the exploitation continue." She says the last words through clenched teeth.`
			`	"Sure, he made some mistakes. No one becomes governor here without getting a little dirt on their hands. But in the end he refused to give into the company-bosses' demands, and throughout it all he was laboring for the common man." Wynnafirth looks up at you. "You were a good friend to him, it's true, but truth be told, while you may have been his hero, he was ours; he was the real Hero of Rand.`
			`	"And when he wouldn't budge they finally got him on trumped up charges and threw him to Oblivion to disappear and die." She shakes her head. "There was nothing we could do. We're still in a..." she hesitates, "... a rebuilding phase."`
			`	She reads the list again. "A few weeks, you say? Well, we already thought he was dead, so if there's a chance we save the Governor then we're in.`
			`	"We have a few left over explosives and detonators from when this mine was active. That should take care of the bomb he was hoping for." She then unholsters her sidearm and hands it to you.`
			choice
				`	(Take it.)`

			`	"And this should take care of his need for a gun. As for the other items on there..." She turns to a torn and faded star chart taped on the rocky cavern wall.`
			`	Grabbing a small stick leaning against the wall, she points to Rastaban. "Dancer would be the best world to find a survival suit rated for Oblivion's toxic environment. As for medication..." She looks over the chart for a moment, then points to Dabih. "Your best bet will be New Britain. One of the few worlds in the Belt that can produce complex pharmaceuticals."`
			`	The stick points at Shaula next. "The best place for a fake ID would be the 'independent' world of Greenrock." She taps her chin before continuing, "It would be tight though getting to all three of these worlds and back to the governor in time. Any of these worlds may also have the other equipment you need, but the quality likely wouldn't be as good."`
			`	She turns back to you. "I am sorry we couldn't be more help, but hopefully it's enough."`
			`	After putting the pointing stick back in its place, Wynnafrith steps through the door, indicating for you to follow her.`
			choice
				`	(Follow her.)`

			`	Once again in the larger cavern she turns and points at the guard. "Grab our bomb and accompany Captain <last> with it back to their ship."`
			`	The guard frowns. "But it's our only one..."`
			`	"Now!" She cuts him off, and watches as he sullenly slumps away.`
			`	Without looking your way she continues, "It was a pleasure to see you again, Captain <last>, but it's time you were leaving. The governor needs you, and my own glorious revolution needs some attention."`
			`	You leave the dilapidated mines with a bomb, a pistol, and a plan.`
			action
				log `Met Union-Colonel Wynnafrith, Timothy Radrickson's old secretary on Rand. She appears to have become a revolutionary since I last saw her. Showed her Timothy's list, and she said I could find a survival suit on Dancer, the medication on New Britain, and a fake ID on Shaula. Provided me with the gun and bomb Timothy asked for.`



mission "Timothy Radrickson 5b: New Britain"
	description "Tim's old secretary Wynnafrith recommended that <destination> would be a good place to find detoxification medication for Tim."
	landing
	name "Supplies on New Britain"
	source "Rand"
	destination "New Britain"
	to offer
		has "Timothy Radrickson 5a: Timshank Redemption: active"
	on complete
		conversation
			`With a little effort you're able to navigate New Britain's labyrinthian ziggurat masquerading as a spaceport. The lower levels are dedicated to a bustling trade sector where merchants, traders, and producers from all over the Dirt Belt haggle to sell their raw materials, and purchase complex equipment and refined products.`
			label options
			choice
				`	(Find the detoxification medicine.)`
					goto med1
					to display
						not "med1"
				`	(Haggle with the medicine salesman again.)`
					goto med2
					to display
						has "med1"
						not "med2"
				`	(Look for the survival suit.)`
					goto suit1
					to display
						"timothy radrickson suit" <= 1
						not "suit1"
				`	(Return to the shop to buy the survival suit.)`
					goto suit2
					to display
						has "suit1"
						not "suit2"
				`	(Find someone that can procure a fake ID for you.)`
					goto id1
					to display
						"timothy radrickson id" == 0
						not "id1"
				`	(Leave the trade sector.)`
					goto end

			label med1
			action
				set "med1"
			`	You make your way to the pharmaceutical wing, through crowds of representatives from large conglomerates in the process of wrangling with representatives from various worlds, all needing exotic medicine for their innumerable plagues, blights, pandemics, and the like. There's a booth with a slick salesman selling expensive drugs promising to reverse and protect from the effect of toxic air and radiation, and it just so happens that Oblivion is their demonstration planet.`
			`	"There's no need to fear Oblivion's deleterious effects so long as you take one of these a day!" the salesman says brightly. "Why, you could walk among your condemned workers unmasked, and demonstrate your superior executive prowess!"`
			`	You listen on to the salesman, who reckons he can cut you in on a special deal for 140,000 credits.`
			choice
				`	(Purchase the medicine for Tim.)`
					goto "med 140"
				`	(Haggle for a lower price.)`
					goto haggle
				`	(Pass.)`
			`	That price is too steep. You return to the central atrium of the trade sector to consider your options.`
				goto options
			
			label haggle
			`The salesman's eyes narrow and his face suddenly looks vaguely reptilian. "I'm already giving you the best price. The literal shirt off my back!"`
			choice
				`	(Offer 60,000 for the meds.)`
				`	(Offer 120,000 for the meds.)`
					goto "just right"
				`	(Agree to pay 140,000 for the meds.)`
					goto "med 140"
				
			`	The drug salesman's eyes flash with hostility before he breaks out in an angry laugh. "Who do you think you are? What do you think, this is a charity? I already have a buyer lined up for more than twice that!"`
			`	He begins packing up his equipment. "I'm charging you full price, 140,000 or nothing. Last chance."`
			choice
				`	(Purchase the medicine for Tim.)`
					goto "med 140"
				`	(Pass.)`
			action
				set "med2"
			`	That price is too high; you'll have to see if you can purchase a less potent and cheaper drug elsewhere. You return to the central atrium of the trade sector to consider your other options.`
				goto options

			label "just right"
			`	The salesman glowers, but nods his head slightly. "Fine! 120,000 credits it is. My family will starve, but at least you'll get your precious drugs." He begins packing them up for you.`
				goto "med 120"

			label med2
			action
				set "med2"
			`	You decide to go back the pharmaceutical wing to reconsider the deal.`
			`	"Here's the captain again!" says the salesman, as if he'd known you for years. He leans in uncomfortably close to you and says, "I can tell you're a discerning customer, so here's what I will let these go for: 120,000 credits. That's almost wholesale price! I'm barely making a cent, but I really need to unload all these drugs."`
			`	He favors you with an unnaturally white, toothy grin.`
			choice
				`	(Purchase the discounted medicine for Tim.)`
					goto "med 120"
				`	(Haggle for an even lower price.)`
					goto haggle2
				`	(Pass.)`
			`	Again, the medicine just costs too much; Tim will have to survive with something less potent.`
			`	The salesman's eyes bulge, and his smooth face is suddenly crisscrossed with unattractive wrinkles. "Fine. I have another buyer anyways," he half-growls at you. He begins packing up his stall, muttering and shaking his head to himself as he does so.`
			`	You return to the central atrium of the trade sector to consider your other options.`
				goto options
			
			label haggle2
			`	The drug salesman's eyes flash with hostility before he breaks out in an angry laugh. "Who do you think you are? What do you think, this is a charity? I already have a buyer lined up for more than twice what I've offered you!"`
			`	He begins packing up his equipment. "For wasting my time I'm charging you full price, 140,000 or nothing. Last chance."`
			choice
				`	(Purchase the medcine for Tim.)`
					goto "med 140"
				`	(Pass.)`
			`	That price is still too expensive. You'll have to see if you can purchase a less potent and cheaper drug elsewhere.`
			`	You return to the central atrium of the trade sector to consider your other options.`
				goto options


			label "med 140"
			action
				set "med2"
				"timothy radrickson medicine" = 3
				payment -140000
			`	After closing the deal, you hand over a credit chip for <payment> to the salesman and he gives you the medicine, boxed and in a bag. You hope it'll save Timothy.`
				goto options

			label "med 120"
			action
				set "med2"
				"timothy radrickson medicine" = 3
				payment -120000
			`	After closing the deal, you hand over a credit chip for <payment> to the salesman and he gives you the medicine, boxed and in a bag. You hope it'll save Timothy.`
				goto options

			label suit1
			action
				set "suit1"
			`	It doesn't take long for you to find stores stocked with flashy, expensive clothes brands. The ones catering to the wealthy, adventurous types. Hobbyists with something to prove. The gear here is attractive, mass produced, and beneath the lifestyle veneer they give off, somewhat cheap. They might not be industrial grade, but maybe they'll be good enough for Timothy. Maybe.`
			`	There's a store named "Explorer's Element" not far from the central atrium which looks promising. The advertised price for the most heavy-duty survival suit they stock is only 99,999 credits, and there are numerous suits on the rack.`
			choice
				`	(Get the survival suit for Tim.)`
					goto "get suit"
				`	(Pass.)`
			`	The suit's value is probably a good indicator of its usefulness, and you pass up on the option to buy it. You return to the central atrium of the trade sector to consider your options.`
				goto options

			label suit2
			action
				set "suit2"
			`	You return to the store and locate the rack filled with the hobbyist survival suits. The price is still 99,999 credits.`
			choice
				`	(Get the survival suit for Tim.)`
					goto "get suit"
				`	(Pass.)`
			`	You just can't pull the trigger. You return to the terminal area to consider your other options.`
				goto options
			
			label "get suit"
			action
				set "suit2"
				"timothy radrickson suit" = 2
				payment -99999
			`	The sales associate is delighted to remove the tags and wrap up your brand new survival suit. He tells you about how his cousin used one just last month to visit a mildly chilly beach a few hours north of the spaceport.`
			`	You pay the <payment>, and he hands you the bag.`
				goto options

			label id1
			action
				set "id1"
			`	The trade sector has all manner of ID services and consultants, but you find none of the respectable ones are willing to talk to you after you explain the ID has to be prepared "in absentia," and the unrespectable ones appear to be lacking here given the presence of the spaceport gendarme at every corner. Frustrated, you decide to take a walk outside the spaceport proper.`
			choice
				`	(Give up and go get something else.)`
					goto options
				`	(Keep walking about.)`
			`	You eventually reach a little forested garden area with a few benches, by one of the parking lots that serve the spaceport. The suns of Dabih are out in full force today, and you're glad to be in the shade.`
			`	As you recover from the heat you notice that, sitting over in the parking lot, there's a few teenagers chatting amongst themselves. The sort that look like they'd know where to get a false ID if they needed one. Perhaps they could give you some pointers.`
			choice
				`	(Give up and go get something else.)`
					goto options
				`	(Approach the teenagers for help about the ID.)`

			`	The teenagers, two of them boys and one a girl, grin at you like fresh meat as you near them.`
			`	The guy in the middle says, "What'dya need, boss? Wanna get high? Wanna get low? Wanna get out?" Apparently this group is used to working with frustrated castouts from the overly legal spaceport emporium.`
			choice
				`	(Ask them about where you could get a fake ID.)`
					goto "hook me up"
				`	(Politely decline and head back to your ship.)`
					goto options
				`	(Threaten to call the police.)`

			`	They back away from you and frown. The middle one lowers his hand to some concealed weapon, but stops himself when he notices your own holstered gun.`
			`	The girl next to him mutters, "Ain't worth it. Let's roll." The kids promptly walk off, leaving you alone in the park.`
			choice
				`	(Head back to the spaceport.)`
					goto options
			
			label "hook me up"
			`	The three of them look at each other and then give you a carnivorous grin.`
			`	"Sure thing," he smirks. "Easy as rain. It'll cost ya 'bout 20,000 cred." They look at you expectantly.`
			choice
				`	(Give them the credits.)`
					goto "buy id"
				`	"Wait! Show me how you're going to do it first."`
				`	(Turn them down.)`
					goto "refuse id"

			`	He sighs. "Fine. I know a guy in the city, he snags us fake IDs all the time, gets us into bars, clubs, all sorts. All we need is how ya want this false guy to look, we'll take it to him and get the ID, and you'll be sweet.`
			`	"So, ya gonna take it?"`
			choice
				`	(Give them the credits.)`
					goto "buy id"
				`	(Turn them down.)`

			label "refuse id"
			`	Collectively they frown. "Your loss," the middle guy says, before leaving you alone to return to the spaceport.`
				goto options

			label "buy id"
			action
				payment -20000
			`	"Alrighty then, it's a done deal," he says, stashing the credit chip away. He then pulls out a datapad and asks you a few questions about what to put on the ID. You try to answer as best you can in regards to Timothy (and change a few of the more obviously incriminating details). They say to meet you here in a couple hours once they've got the ID sorted in the city.`
			choice
				`	(Wait.)`

			`	Two and a half hours pass as you wait for the teens in the garden, but there's no sign of them yet. You wonder if you've just given 20,000 credits away for nothing.`
			choice
				`	(Leave.)`
					goto "leave id"
				`	(Wait.)`

			`	Another thirty minutes pass, but just as you're about to leave the three teens show themselves again, ID in hand.`
			`	"We thought you're gonna bail out on us for bein' late. Thankfully you got the sense not to. And now ya get the goods in exchange." The middle kid hands you the ID. "Good dealin' with ya," he says as they walk off.`
			`	As you go back to the spaceport, you take a look at the ID for the first time.`
			`	Whoever made this clearly wasn't a professional. It looks like they've somehow botched the bar code, given the smear on the print, and the duplication of the emblem of the planetary authority of New Britain on the back is rather dodgy. But unless you can find a better alternative, it'll have to do.`
				goto options

			label "leave id"
			`	You sigh, having learnt a lesson that teenagers in parking lots probably aren't the most trustworthy of people. Back to the spaceport.`
				goto options

			label end
			action
				clear "med1"
				clear "med2"
				clear "suit1"
				clear "suit2"
				clear "id1"
			`	After a long day of walking about the New British spaceport and wading through the crowds of hustlers and travellers, you return to the relatively calmer terminal area at the top of the pyramid.`
				decline
	to fail
		or
			has "Timothy Radrickson 5a: Timshank Redemption: done"
			has "Timothy Radrickson 5a: Timshank Redemption: failed"


mission "Timothy Radrickson 5c: Dancer"
	description "Tim's old secretary Wynnafrith recommended that <destination> would be a good place to find a survival suit for Tim."
	name "Supplies on Dancer"
	landing
	source "Rand"
	destination "Dancer"
	to offer
		has "Timothy Radrickson 5a: Timshank Redemption: active"
	on complete
		conversation
			`Your ship shakes as it descends into Dancer's mad weather. Lightning crackles beyond your sturdy bulkheads and a panoply of colorful clouds rushes past as you boost down into in the dull overcast light of a subdued day on Dancer.`
			`	Around the quiet spaceport there's a smattering of low reinforced buildings linked together by weather-worn trails dug into the ground with protective earth on either side. You see one leading to a spacious, if squat, clearing house.`
			choice
				`	(Enter the clearing house.)`
			`	There is an eclectic assortment of gear, goods, supplies and equipment here, some new, some used to the point of ruin. Unsurprisingly, given the primary industry of this world, much of it is scientific.`
			`	A middle aged woman with deep windburned scars and a striking shock of white between her otherwise dark hair greets you as you come in. "Anything worth having on Dancer can be found here. Just take a look around and let Bertha know if you find anything to your liking."`
			label "dancer options"
			choice
				`	(Look at the survival suits.)`
					goto suit1
					to display
						not "suit1"
				`	(Look at the survival suits again.)`
					goto suit2
					to display
						has "suit1"
						not "suit2"
				`	(Check the medicine shelves.)`
					goto med1
					to display
						"timothy radrickson medicine" == 0
						not "med1"
				`	(Return to the medicine shelves.)`
					goto med2
					to display
						has "med1"
						not "med2"
				`	(Rummage around for old IDs.)`
					goto id1
					to display
						"timothy radrickson id" <= 1
						not "id1"
				`	(Go back to where you found the ID.)`
					goto id2
					to display
						has "id1"
						not "id2"
				`	(Leave the clearing house.)`
					goto end

			label suit1
			action
				set "suit1"
			`	There are a handful of survival suits on display here. These are durable, hand-crafted suits carefully checked and rated to ensure the highest chance of survival against the fierce uncaring winds of Dancer.`
			`	Bertha notices your attention and walks up to you. "Going anywhere overland on Dancer without one of these beauties is a death wish."`
			`	She winks at you, as if she knows something you don't. "Worry not though, hun. We only sell the highest rated and best-tested suits here. I won't have anyone's death on my conscience - 'sides, it's bad for business."`
			`	She pinches some of the dense microwoven fabric of the nearest suit. "It's not cheap, but neither is your life. I'll sell ya one of these for 300,000 credits."`
			choice
				`	(Purchase a survival suit for Tim.)`
					goto "get suit"
				`	(Haggle to try and lower the price.)`
					goto haggle
				`	(Pass.)`

			`	You decide that 300,000 credits is way too much. The woman shrugs and steps away as you turn your attention back to the rest of the store.`
				goto "dancer options"
			
			label haggle
			`	Bertha gives you a sad smile and shakes her head slowly. "No room here for haggling, hun. These are the best of the best and they are worth every red cent. I am sure you can find bottom bin ones elsewhere, but here you pay for quality."`
			`	She folds her arms. "Now, it's 300,000 credits or nothing."`
			choice
				`	(Purchase the survival suit for Tim.)`
					goto "get suit"
				`	(Pass.)`

			`	Bertha sighs and then shrugs, and leaves you alone to continue browsing through her clearing house.`
				goto "dancer options"
				
			label suit2
			action
				set "suit2"
			`	You loop back to where the well-crafted survival suits hang. The price is still 300,000 credits.`
			choice
				`	(Purchase a survival suit for Tim.)`
					goto "get suit"
				`	(Go back to browsing.)`

			`	Not ready to make a purchase, you return to perusing the store.`
				goto "dancer options"

			label "get suit"
			action
				set "suit2"
				"timothy radrickson suit" = 3
				payment -300000
			`	Bertha is happy to ring you up, and gives you the carefully packaged and sealed survival suit for <payment>.`
				goto "dancer options"
		
			label med1
			action
				set "med1"
			`	There's numerous shelves filled with all kinds of drugs, and it takes you a few minutes to find the detoxification medicine. By then Bertha is at your side.`
			`	"Foul winds are known to kick up toxic dust in the atmosphere, and if you plan on staying here long you're likely going to need to take a few of these." She looks at you curiously, and then adds, "However, you may find them less useful on other worlds."`
			`	"Still, if you think you could use them I'd sell them to you for 10,000 credits," she adds helpfully.`
			choice
				`	(Buy Dancer's medicine for Tim.)`
					goto "get med"
				`	(Pass.)`

			`	Bertha nods. "You have the windless look of a tourist. Best to leave these for those who are going to spend some real time on Dancer."`
				goto "dancer options"

			label med2
			action
				set "med2"
			`	The shelves of medication are just where you left them. You can grab a kit of Dancer detoxification drugs for 10,000 credits.`
			choice
				`	(Buy Dancer's medicine for Tim.)`
					goto "get med"
				`	(Pass.)`

			`	You leave the drugs where they are and return to looking through the clearance house.`
				goto "dancer options"
			
			label "get med"
			action
				"timothy radrickson medicine" = 1
				payment -10000
			`	Bertha packages the drugs for you and looks at with mild concern. "Remember. These really are only rated for Dancer. I do not advise using them offworld."`
			`	She takes your <payment>, and hands you the drugs.`
				goto "dancer options"

			label id1
			action
				set "id1"
			`	Toward the back you find various bins that are filled with what look like the unsorted personal belongings of scientists.`
			`	Bertha sees you in the back but doesn't join you. Instead she just hollers, "Scientists are always coming and going and sometimes leave a lot behind. I'd be as pleased as a wind vane on a calm day if you took any of that off my hands. Whatever you find I'll give to ya for 1,000 credits."`
			`	You sift through the items - which are mostly clothes and old lab coats - before coming across a scientist's ID card. The name reads 'Skounce Yarling' and the picture, to your surprise, looks a little like Timothy's.`
			choice
				`	(Buy the old ID.)`
					goto "get id"
				`	(Pass.)`

			`	The old ID might work, but it would also be quite a risk. You leave it where you found it and go back to wandering around the store.`
				goto "dancer options"

			label id2
			action
				set "id2"
			`	You return to the bin with Skounce Yarling's ID sitting on the top of his forlorn refuse.`
			choice
				`	(Buy the ID for Tim.)`
					goto "get id"
				`	(Pass.)`
			`	You let sleeping IDs lie, and return to the rest of the store.`
				goto "dancer options"

			label "get id"
			action
				set "id2"
				"timothy radrickson id" = 2
				payment -1000
			`	Bertha favors you with a mischievous grin and combs her black hair behind her ears. "I must admit, I have a thing for danger." Her eyes sparkle and her voice is a little huskier than before as she says, "I'm not sure whatchya need this for, and I certainly don't want you to tell me. But I hope you pull it off."`
			`	She takes your <payment> and hands you the old ID, her eyes lingering on you.`
				goto "dancer options"

			label end
			action
				clear "med1"
				clear "med2"
				clear "suit1"
				clear "suit2"
				clear "id1"
				clear "id2"
			`	Bertha gives you a friendly nod as you make your way back outside into Dancer's foreboding weather, and the rest of the spaceport.`
				decline
	to fail
		or
			has "Timothy Radrickson 5a: Timshank Redemption: done"
			has "Timothy Radrickson 5a: Timshank Redemption: failed"


mission "Timothy Radrickson 5d: Greenrock"
	name "Supplies on <planet>"
	description "Tim's old secretary Wynnafrith recommended that <destination> would be a good place to find a fake ID for Tim."
	landing
	source Rand
	destination Greenrock
	to offer
		has "Timothy Radrickson 5a: Timshank Redemption: active"
	on offer
	on complete
		conversation
			`You feel the pressure of many unseen eyes watching you as you leave the spaceport and enter into the sprawling stalls of Greenrock's rowdy emporium, where everything and everyone is for sale.`
			`	Greenrock looks a little more civil than when you were racing around saving captured freighter fleets, but only just a little. There is a wildness here and violence simmers just beneath the surface of every interaction. Luckily, no one seems to remember or care about the fleet you destroyed.`
				to display
					has "Timothy Radrickson 3d: Return to Rand: done"
			`	The civic infrastructure leaves something to be desired; you can pretty much taste the city's squalid sewer in the air. While trying to get a sense of the area, you weave past various hucksters all trying to get your attention for whatever or whoever they're selling.`
			`	Finally you reach the center of the emporium and discover a crudely drawn map of the spaceport. It's not much, but at least it tells you where you can find what you're looking for.`
			label "green options"
			choice
				`	(Find someone that can produce a fake ID for you.)`
					goto id1
					to display
						not "id1"
				`	(Go back to Ivaldur's forging stall for the fake ID.)`
					goto id2
					to display
						has "id1"
						not "id2"
				`	(Look for a survival suit.)`
					goto suit1
					to display
						"timothy radrickson suit" == 0
						not "suit1"
				`	(Return to the shop to buy the survival suit.)`
					goto suit2
					to display
						has "suit1"
						not "suit2"
				`	(Find the detoxification medicine.)`
					goto med1
					to display
						"timothy radrickson id" <= 1
						not "id1"
				`	(Go back to the drug dealer to get the detoxification medicine.)`
					goto med2
					to display
						has "med1"
						not "med2"
				`	(Leave the emporium.)`
					goto end
			
			label id1
			action
				set "id1"
			`	There's more than a half dozen stalls all advertising their high skills and production value when it comes to the art of crafting fake IDs. Most the stalls and their employees have a garish, sloppy, and boastful manner, but one with a more professional and constrained feel attracts your attention; it's run by an older gentleman who has the look of a respectable watchmaker.`
			`	He nods at you politely as you approach. "Good day to you. I am Ivaldur the Forger, and what can I do for you?"`
			choice
				`	(Ask about producing a fake ID.)`
					goto ask
				`	(Turn around and leave.)`

			`	For whatever reason you are not interested in doing business with Ivaldur the Forger, and promptly head back out into the emporium.`
				goto "green options"
			
			label ask
			`	The old man smiles at you good-naturedly. "Simple enough request. I can provide you with an ID, and a complex matching background that will pass all but the most exhaustive of checks."`
			`	He gives off an aura of quiet confidence as he speaks. "My service is thorough and, as you'll find, quite unmatched. Unless your friend is someone being hunted by Navy Intelligence, he will be able to seamlessly integrate into life on any human world."`
			`	He pauses as if considering something, and then adds, "If he is also a war criminal on the run from someone like, I don't know, Deep Security or Republic Intelligence... I could also come up with something, but that would be a premium service I doubt you need at the moment."`
			`	Ivaldur adjusts his spectacles thoughtfully. "The going rate for my basic service is 350,000 credits."`
			`	He looks at you expectantly and waits.`
			choice
				`	(Pay 350,000 credits for a fake ID and history for Tim.)`
					goto "get id"
				`	(Pass.)`

			`	He simply nods and gives you a knowing look. "I acknowledge the fee seems high, but rest assured the service I provide is well worth it.`
			`	"I'll be here if you change your mind."`
				goto "green options"

			label id2
			action
				set "id2"
			`	Your return to Ivaldur the Forger's stall, and the old man gives you a curt nod as you approach. "Back so soon? I hope you have made your decision."`
			choice
				`	(Pay 350,000 credits for a fake ID and history for Tim.)`
					goto "get id"
				`	(Pass.)`

			`	Without speaking you again leave Ivaldur's stall.`
				goto "green options"

			label "get id"
			action
				set "id2"
				"timothy radrickson id" = 3
				payment -350000
			`	Ivaldur's eyes light up and he immediately gets to work. From his panel he backdoors his way into various databases, diving into the code with an obvious alacrity and unbridled joy.`
			`	Whole histories, lives, records and attachments burst into existence in a dozen corners of official networks and reports. It becomes apparent that he is not really creating a fake ID; the ID he creates is real. It is sanctioned, stamped, and endorsed by multiple governing bodies, uploaded to and referenced by institutional records, and given the appropriate checks and markers.`
			`	In fact, what Ivaldur has done is create a fake person, and this is that person's real ID.`
			`	When he finishes he says nothing and instead basks in a job well done. Finally, he turns to you for payment. <payment> is transferred into his account, and he hands you Tim's brand new ID card.`
			`	"It was a pleasure," he says in a satisfied voice, and bids you well.`
				goto "green options"
		
			label suit1
			action
				set "suit1"
			`	You find a large stall boasting all the survival equipment an enterprising pirate could ever need. Inside there's various used gear, some more used than others, and only a few well weathered survival suits.`
			`	The proprietor appears out of nowhere and immediately begins flogging his goods to you. "Ah! Yes, with any of these you can survive the harshest of climates!"`
			`	He takes one suit off the rack and begins, "Notice the intricate mesh weave on this state of the art-" the suit comes apart at its seams in his hands. The proprietor frowns, but then quickly tosses it to the side.`
			`	"A, uh, defunct specimen. Happens from time to time. Rest assured I never would have sold it to you." He looks at you unconvincingly.`
			`	He pulls another suit down which, to his obvious relief, doesn't simply fall apart in his hands.`
			`	"Now as I was saying, top of the line mesh weaves. Great comfort and breathability. For tough spots..."`
			`	You look carefully at the suit as the proprietor's words drift uselessly out of his mouth. It has patches on top of patches, and its seals look worn and corroded. It looks like a death trap.`
			`	"...and look just how clean it looks inside." The proprietor opens up one the seals, revealing quite a bit of dried blood staining its insides. He quickly closes the seal and wipes some sweat from his brow.`
			`	"Perfectly normal to find in a suit. Totally unrelated to its operation. You know, pirates... just bleed a lot in general. Part of the lifestyle and all that."`
			`	He looks at you with earnest, bulging eyes. "So what do you think? I'd be willing to sell this baby to you for 400,000 credits."`
			choice
				`	(Purchase the patched survival suit for Tim.)`
					goto "get gear"
				`	(Haggle for a lower price.)`
					goto haggle
				`	(Pass.)`

			`	That death trap might hasten Tim's demise, not guard against it. You leave the sweating proprietor behind and head back into the emporium at large.`
				goto "green options"
			
			label haggle
			`	The proprietor's eyes dart back and forth, and then he nods vigorously.`
			`	"Of course. Of course. Given its... condition. It only makes sense that a discerning privateer such as yourself get a discount."`
			`	"But, uh, if anyone asks about where you got this suit from. Given the obscene value you're getting from me, do me the favor of not disclosing where you got it. I wouldn't want anyone thinking they could get a deal like this."`
			`	He gives a nervous yet earnest smile.`
			choice
				`	(Offer 20,000 for the suit.)`
					goto "get gear 2"
				`	(Offer 100,000 for the suit.)`
					goto "get gear 3"
				`	(Offer 250,000 for the suit.)`
					goto "get gear 4"
				`	(Pass.)`

			`	That death trap might hasten Tim's demise, not guard against it. You leave the sweating proprietor behind and head back into the emporium at large.`
				goto "green options"
				
			label suit2
			action
				set "suit2"
			`	You return to the clothing stall, where the proprietor immediately hounds you again for the suit. The suit you were shown before looks just as patched, worn and corroded as before. The few other options next to it are even worse.`
			`	The proprietor reminds you the price is still 400,000 credits for this 'lightly used' and 'field tested' state of the art survival suit.`
			choice
				`	(Purchase the patched survival suit for Tim.)`
					goto "get gear"
				`	(Haggle for a lower price.)`
					goto haggle
				`	(Pass.)`

			`	That death trap might hasten Tim's demise, not guard against it. You leave the sweating proprietor behind and head back into the emporium at large.`
				goto "green options"

			label "get gear"
			action
				set "suit2"
				"timothy radrickson suit" = 1
				payment -400000
			`	The proprietor quickly rings you up as if worried you'll change your mind at any moment, and gleefully takes your <payment>.`
			`	"Safe travels, privateer," he says as you leave his stall.`
				goto "green options"

			label "get gear 2"
			action
				set "suit2"
				"timothy radrickson suit" = 1
				payment -20000
			`	The proprietor quickly rings you up as if worried you'll change your mind at any moment, and gleefully takes your <payment>.`
			`	"Safe travels, privateer," he says as you leave his stall.`
				goto "green options"

			label "get gear 3"
			action
				set "suit2"
				"timothy radrickson suit" = 1
				payment -100000
			`	The proprietor quickly rings you up as if worried you'll change your mind at any moment, and gleefully takes your <payment>.`
			`	"Safe travels, privateer," he says as you leave his stall.`
				goto "green options"

			label "get gear 4"
			action
				set "suit2"
				"timothy radrickson suit" = 1
				payment -250000
			`	The proprietor quickly rings you up as if worried you'll change your mind at any moment, and gleefully takes your <payment>.`
			`	"Safe travels, privateer," he says as you leave his stall.`
				goto "green options"

			label med1
			action
				set "med1"
			`	There are many stalls loudly advertising all kinds of illegal drugs, and it takes some work to sift through them until you come across one selling legal drugs as well. The man running it is sallow and pock-marked, but his eyes are keen. He almost hisses as he greets you.`
			`	"Whatever you need, wherever you're going, I have you covered."`
			choice
				`	(Ask about detoxification medicine for Oblivion.)`
					goto "ask drugs"
				`	(Leave.)`

			`	This is not the place for you. You take your leave and return to the emporium at large.`
				goto "green options"

			label "ask drugs"
			`	The drug dealer flashes you with his yellow teeth and unnerving smile. "For every kind of toxic environment under any sun." He jolts towards his little wall of drawers, pulling out one labeled "Oblivion detoxifiers." From the drawer he picks a bottle up, checking its label.`
			`	"It says it expired a few years ago, but that's just so the corpos can squeeze the common man, ya know? Stuff's still good." He shrugs.`
			`	"So what'dya say? It'll cost'ya a cool 50,000 credits. But trust me, that's way cheaper than what you'll find elsewhere."`
			choice
				`	(Buy the expired detoxification medicine for Tim.)`
					goto "get med"
				`	(Pass.)`

			`	The drug-dealer says as you go away, "You won't find a better deal than this. I'll be here if you change your mind."`
				goto "green options"

			label med2
			action
				set "med2"
			`	The drug-dealer's knowing smile is almost a sneer as you return to his stall. He waits to see if you're ready to buy something.`
			choice
				`	(Buy the expired detoxification medicine for Tim.)`
					goto "get med"
				`	(Pass.)`

			`	You leave the drug-dealer behind and head back into the emporium.`
				goto "green options"
			
			label "get med"
			action
				set "med2"
				"timothy radrickson medicine" = 2
				payment -50000
			`	"Trust me, it's still good," the drug-dealer says as he takes your <payment>. He hands you the drugs with a smirk.`
				goto "green options"

			label end
			action
				clear "med1"
				clear "med2"
				clear "suit1"
				clear "suit2"
				clear "id1"
				clear "id2"
			`	It's never wise to linger in a place like this, especially aimlessly. With your business concluded you leave Greenrock's stalls behind.`
				decline
	to fail
		or
			has "Timothy Radrickson 5a: Timshank Redemption: done"
			has "Timothy Radrickson 5a: Timshank Redemption: failed"


mission "Timothy Radrickson 5e: Back to Oblivion"
	source Oblivion
	to offer
		has "Timothy Radrickson 5a: Timshank Redemption: done"
	on offer
		"timothy radrickson zpreparedness" = "timothy radrickson medicine" + "timothy radrickson suit" + "timothy radrickson id"
		conversation
			`Your ship touches down beneath Oblivion's toxic ammonia-blue sky. Night or day, there is a constant flurry of workers loading, unloading, building, and expanding the ever growing boom-town of Tukayyid. You unload all of Timothy's gear onto a dolly and push it out into the busy street.`
			`	Your presence goes unnoticed among the general ruckus and you're able to slip into the off-loading warehouses unseen. You find Timothy there, leaning over a pile of hose hookups, breathing heavily. His blood-red eyes rise to meet yours, and despite their milky gloss, a glimmer of hope burns within them.`
			`	"You did it?" His words more strained than the last time you spoke. "You got the gear?"`
			`	He looks down at your dolly expectantly.`
			choice
				`	"It's all here."`
				`	"Of course I did."`
				`	"Yep, but you owe me big."`

			`	He nearly drops to his knees and starts sorting through the gear. He takes heart when you tell him about Wynnafirth's gun and bomb, and how highly she still thinks of him.`
			`	"Good secretary. Better friend." He wheezes as he checks out the rest of your gear.`
			branch unprepared
				"timothy radrickson zpreparedness" < 6

			branch "decently prepared"
				"timothy radrickson zpreparedness" >= 6
				"timothy radrickson zpreparedness" <= 7

			branch "well prepared"
				"timothy radrickson zpreparedness" > 7

			label unprepared
			`	As he inspects the suit, drugs, and ID you can see his demeanor shift. He seems to deflate a little.`
			`	Finally, he straightens back up. "You did the best you could. I'm sure." He eyes the gear wearily. "At least it's a chance."`
				goto end

			label "decently prepared"
			`	As he inspects the suit, drugs, and ID you he nods to himself satisfactorily.`
			`	Finally, he straightens back up. "It'll do," he says as he eyes the gear. "It'll do."`
				goto end

			label "well prepared"
			`	As he inspects the suit, drugs, and ID you can see his demeanor shift. He looks less weak, less sickly, and more confident.`
			`	Finally, he straightens back up. "It's perfect." He eyes the gear with awe and shakes his head. "Don't know how you did it. But with this I can't fail."`

			label end
			`	Timothy turns from you and uses the dolly to load the gear into one of the trucks in the warehouse. Once done he turns back to you, his eyes wide and rimmed with bloody tears. "Always at my lowest." He swallows a cough, and then continues. "It's you who saves me. When I am at my lowest. It's you."`
			`	Timothy looks like he wants to hug you, but he just nods. He hits a button on the wall and the garage door opens, exposing the warehouse to the night air.`
			`	"Captain," he says in way of a farewell, and then he climbs aboard the truck and drives off.`


mission "Timothy Radrickson 6: News of Death"
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
		attributes "urban"
	to offer
		has "Timothy Radrickson 5e: Back to Oblivion: offered"
		random < 15
	on offer
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `Tried to help Timothy escape from his prison sentence there.`
		log "Timothy is dead - or at least that is what's being reported in the news. Perhaps the plot to break him free really did work."
		set "timothy radrickson 6 log entry correct"
		event "timothy radrickson forever"
		conversation
			`A spaceport is a symphony of smells, sounds, and images in constant motion. Somewhere in the din, a news report is playing, and a familiar name leaps out at you. Your attention piqued, you turn to watch.`
			`	"News out of Oblivion today. A minor explosion has claimed the life of Timothy Radrickson, former disgraced Governor of Rand. Sentenced to prison-labor on Oblivion, a hard but fair justice for a man who..."`
			`	The news broadcast continues to blare, but you aren't able to follow any more than that.`
				decline


event "timothy radrickson forever"


mission "Timothy Radrickson 7: Monk"
	minor
	source "New Tibet"
	to offer
		random < 35
		has "event: timothy radrickson forever"
		"timothy radrickson zpreparedness" > 7
	on offer
		conversation
			`A group of monks passes you by in the spaceport, and one stops to look at you curiously.`
			`	"Are you Captain <last>?" he asks.`
			choice
				`	"Why?"`
					goto why
				`	"Yes."`
					goto why
				`	"None of your business."`

			`	"Of course," the monk says. He drops his head and rejoins his brothers.`
				decline

			label why
			`	The monk lowers his head in a sign of respect. "Although we live in the mountains and interact rarely with outsiders, we have heard much of your exploits. You are an agent of change, and worthy of consideration."`
			`	"I thank you for giving us much to ponder on. I also have one small request; there is one within our monastery who is a great admirer of yours. It would mean much if you would be willing to meet him."`
			choice
				`	"I'd be honored to meet him."`
					goto "why yes"
				`	"Why not. I got nothing to better to do."`
					goto "why yes"
				`	"I don't have time for fans."`

			`	"Of course," the monk says, "you are a busy person." He returns to his brothers.`
				decline

			label "why yes"
			`	The monk beams. "Wonderful. It'll be a bit of a hike, but the views are worth it."`
			`	He leads you into the mountains beyond the spaceport. You travel up various narrow passes and steep cliff sides. It's a difficult trail, but the scenery is remarkable. Your views are filled with broken mountains, jagged rocks, vibrant green life, and distant valleys.`
			`	After several arduous hours, you clear a peak, and discover a vast stone building waiting for you. "We have arrived," the guide says almost anticlimactically. Perhaps the fact he lives here makes it less grand to him than it ought to be.`
			`	Your guide leaves you outside the entrance, and disappears within for a few minutes before returning with another monk.`
			`	The new monk looks at you with an open, serene expression, that quickly breaks into a wide grin. Although much about his face has changed, whether from wear or surgery, you recognize that grin.`
			choice
				`	"Timothy!"`
				`	"Oh, it's you."`

			`	Timothy Radrickson, former prison-worker on Oblivion, Governor of Rand, and stowaway of your ship, hugs you.`
			`	"Captain <last>. I always hoped I would see you again. Given my tenuous legal situation, I can't leave here, and I can't send any messages." He steps back to look at you.`
			`	"The years have been kind to you, Captain; you hardly look any different from when we first met! Perhaps I should have invested in ship life, instead of staying terrestrial!" He laughs at his own joke, but only modestly.`
			`	"It was difficult for me to speak when last we met on Oblivion, but you're my oldest and best friend. At my lowest points you were always there for me. I just wanted to thank you for that."`
			`	You spend the day chatting with Timothy, before it's time to leave.`
			`	"Thank you for coming here. I wish I had something to give you, but I own nothing anymore, even though I owe you everything. Take care out there, and I'll do my best to keep out of trouble in here."`
			label goodbyes
			choice
				`	(Offer to transfer the Hero of Rand award and stipend to Timothy.)`
					goto offer
					to display
						not "offers"
						has "Timothy Radrickson 3d: Return to Rand: done"
				`	(Shake his hand and say goodbye.)`
					goto shake
				`	(Give him a hug and say goodbye.)`

			action
				clear "offers"
			`	You lean in and give him a warm, earnest bear hug. He wraps his arms around you and squeezes you back. When he finally breaks free, you see his eyes are blurry with tears. He nods to you once, and then walks back into the monastery. You begin your slow descent down the mountain, and back to civilization.`
				decline

			label shake
			action
				clear "offers"
			`	You shake his hand; he swallows and clears his throat as he tries to keep himself from crying, nods to you one last time, and then walks back into the monastery. You begin your slow descent down the mountain, and back to civilization.`
				decline
		
			label offer
			action
				set "offers"
			`	Timothy's eyes go wide. "No, you couldn't. It's yours. You've given me too much already."`
			choice
				`	(Tell him about what Wynnafrith said, and how he is the real Hero of Rand.)`
					goto offer2
				`	(Tell him you don't need the money, but he does.)`
					goto offer2
				`	(Agree with him and rescind your offer.)`
					goto goodbyes
			
			label offer2
			action
				log "Found Timothy alive and well on New Tibet, living a simple, but happy life as a monk."
				log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `Timothy Radrickson survived his faked death on Oblivion and escaped to New Tibet, where, thanks to my help, he now lives as a simple monk. He seems happy.`
				clear "salary: Hero of Rand"
				clear "offers"
			`	As you speak Timothy shakes his head slowly, tears streaming down his face. Finally, as you finish, he wraps his arms around you in an earnest, heartfelt hug.`
			`	He tries to speak, but his voice fails him. Instead he just shakes his teary-eyed head at you and gives you a deep solemn bow.`
			`	Timothy stays to watch as you begin your slow descent down the mountain, and back to civilization.`
				decline



mission "Timothy Radrickson 7: Hospice"
	source "New Tibet"
	to offer
		"timothy radrickson zpreparedness" >= 6
		"timothy radrickson zpreparedness" <= 7
		random < 25
		has "event: timothy radrickson forever"
	on offer
		conversation
			`A group of monks passes you by in the spaceport, and one stops to look at you curiously.`
			`	"Are you Captain <last>?" he asks.`
			choice
				`	"Why?"`
					goto why
				`	"Yes."`
					goto why
				`	"None of your business."`

			`	"Of course," the monk says. He drops his head and rejoins his brothers.`
				decline

			label why
			`	The monk lowers his head in a sign of respect. "Although we spend most our time mediating and healing the sick, we have heard much of your exploits. You are an agent of change, and worthy of consideration."`
			`	"I thank you for giving us much to ponder on. I also have one small request; there is one within our hospital who is a great admirer of yours. It would mean much if you would be willing to meet him."`
			choice
				`	"I'd be honored to meet him."`
					goto "why yes"
				`	"Why not. I've got nothing to better to do."`
					goto "why yes"
				`	"I don't have time for fans."`

			`	"Of course," the monk says, "you are a busy person." He returns to his brothers.`
				decline

			label "why yes"
			`	The monk beams. "Wonderful. It's not far from here."`
			`	You take the spaceport train with him to a nearby hospital, beneath the impressive jungled mountains of New Tibet. In contrast with the other worlds of the Dirt Belt, this hospital is new, clean, and filled with a slew of monks, doctors, and patients. Your escort leads wildly past crowded bedsides and through diverse rooms until, at last, you arrive at a respiration and burns unit situated deep in the hospital's guts.`
			`	"We have arrived," your guide says, and as soon as you look into the ward he seems to disappear into the crowds of the sprawling hospital.`
			`	In the ward you find a maimed man with burn scars and slightly labored breathing. His face lights up when he looks at you, and despite his scars you recognize him. It's Timothy Radrickson.`
			choice
				`	"Timothy!"`
				`	"Oh, it's you."`

			`	Timothy Radrickson, former prison-worker on Oblivion, Governor of Rand, and stowaway of your ship, beckons you step closer to him with his good hand.`
			`	"Captain <last>. I always hoped I would see you again. Given my tenuous legal situation, not to mention my health, I can't leave here, and I can't send any messages." His eyes linger on you, as though he is taking a mental picture. Or just enjoying the sight of a good friend returned.`
			`	"The years have been kind to you, Captain; you hardly look any different from when we first met! Perhaps I should have invested in ship life, instead of staying terrestrial!" He laughs at his own joke, but only weakly given his condition. He coughs a bit, and takes a few slow, deep breaths before continuing.`
			`	"It's still a little difficult for me to speak, but I feel much better than when last we met on Oblivion. I just wanted you to know you're my oldest and best friend. At my lowest points you were always there for me. So thank you for that."`
			`	You spend the day in the hospital room chatting with Timothy, before finally having to leave.`
			`	"Thank you for coming here. I wish I had something to give you, but I own nothing anymore, even though I owe you everything. Take care out there, and I'll do my best to keep out of trouble in here."`
			label goodbyes
			choice
				`	(Offer to transfer the Hero of Rand award and stipend to Timothy.)`
					goto offer
					to display
						not "offers"
						has "Timothy Radrickson 3d: Return to Rand: done"
				`	(Shake his hand and say goodbye.)`
					goto shake
				`	(Give him a hug and say goodbye.)`

			action
				clear "offers"
			`	You lean over and give him a partial hug in his sick bed. He wraps his one good arm around you and squeezes. When he finally breaks free you see a tear.`
			`	You leave him bedridden in the hospital, and to your surprise you find your guide waiting for you outside the room. "His is a tough case. Perhaps one day he will recover enough to leave this place." The monk pauses, thoughtfully. "Or perhaps not."`
			`	He leads you back to the train station, and from there you take brief journey back to New Tibet's spaceport.`
				decline

			label shake
			action
				clear "offers"
			`	You lean in to shake his good hand. He swallows and clears his throat, trying to keep himself from crying.`
			`	You leave him bedridden in the hospital, and to your surprise find your guide waiting for you outside the room. "His is a tough case. Perhaps one day he will recover enough to leave this place." The monk pauses, thoughtfully. "Or perhaps not."`
			`	He leads you back to the train station, and from there you take brief journey back to New Tibet's spaceport.`
				decline
		
			label offer
			action
				set "offers"
			`	Timothy's eyes go wide. "No, you couldn't. It's yours. You've given me too much already."`
			choice
				`	(Tell him about what Wynnafrith said, and how he is the real Hero of Rand.)`
					goto offer2
				`	(Tell him you don't need the money, but he does.)`
					goto offer2
				`	(Agree with him and rescind your offer.)`
					goto goodbyes
			
			label offer2
			action
				log "Found Timothy alive, but not in great shape. He is thankful for the rescue nonetheless. Can't shake the feeling that there was more that I could have done for him."
				log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `Once a stowaway, governor, and prisoner, Timothy Radrickson now resides incognito on New Tibet. Unfortunately, some of the equipment I acquired for him was faulty, and he spends his days in a hospital ward as an invalid.`
				clear "salary: Hero of Rand"
				clear "offers"
			`	As you speak Timothy shakes his head slowly, tears streaming down his face. Finally, as you finish, he reaches out to you with his one good arm and pulls you in for a hug.`
			`	He tries to speak, but his voice fails him. Instead he just shakes his teary-eyed head and bows it before you in deep respect.`
			`	"Always." He manages to whisper through phlegm and weakened lungs as you turn to leave, "always you."`
			`	You leave him bedridden in the hospital, and to your surprise find your guide waiting for you outside the room.`
			`	"His is a tough case. Perhaps one day he will recover enough to leave this place." The monk pauses, thoughtfully. "Or perhaps not."`
			`	He leads you back to the train station, and from there you take the brief journey back to New Tibet's spaceport.`


mission "Timothy Radrickson 7: Grave"
	source "Oblivion"
	to offer
		random < 25
		has "event: timothy radrickson forever"
		or
			"timothy radrickson zpreparedness" < 6
			has "Timothy Radrickson 5a: Timshank Redemption: failed"
	on offer
		conversation
			`Oblivion's spaceport is the kind of place that, despite being in constant motion, never really changes. Humanity, driven by its constant thirst for resources, scurries over this unremarkable world like a hive of angry bees, but for all their furious effort it looks no different than any of the previous times you've been here.`
			`	Except, of course, the lack of one familiar face. A doomed and disgraced ex-governor who had been sent here, and last you heard, had died here.`
			`	With that heavy thought on your mind you notice a sign which promises to lead you to the local graveyard.`
			choice
				`	(Head to the graveyard.)`
					goto graveyard
				`	(Head back to your ship.)`

			`	You see no point in wasting your time at this place's graveyard, so you head back to your ship.`
				decline
			
			label graveyard
			`	Oblivion's evening sky is lit up by unnumbered rigs and natural gas burners that dot the region. These red fires turn the normally dark blue atmosphere a shade of smoldering purple.`
			`	It's beneath that purple hue you see a countless expanse of small flat gravestones uniformly placed in Oblivion's sterile dirt. Despite the number of headstones there is no one else here, and only a few graves show any evidence of being visited.`
			`	It seems as though those buried here are mostly forgotten.`
			choice
				`	(Search for Timothy Radrickson's grave.)`
					goto search
				`	(Leave.)`

			`	You've seen all you wanted to see of this place, and you leave this unloved graveyard to its forlorn dead.`
				decline

			label search
			action
				log "Timothy is dead. It seems the plan to break him free failed."
				log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `From stowaway, to governor, to prisoner, to corpse: the tale of Timothy is complete. The equipment I acquired for him failed, and his remains are buried beneath a neat unremarkable gravestone on Oblivion.`
			`	The index is easy to find, and has all the hallmarks of having never been used. The graveyard is set up in a carefully regimented grid system and despite the large number of graves, it is surprisingly easy to find Timothy's.`
			`	You walk across the forgotten memorial to find a small, flat unremarkable stone, hemmed in amongst other unremarkable stones, pressed into the dead ground. The text laser-chiseled onto it reads, "Timothy Radrickson. Prisoner - 645631-4C."`
			`	That's all. Nothing about his meteoric rise, about being the Governor of Rand, or even how or when his death occurred here. Just another dead prisoner.`
			choice
				`	(Stay a while and contemplate.)`
				`	(Leave.)`
					goto end

			`	The slow moving evening clouds have cast the entire world in a strange purple twilight. Timothy's grave sits before you, nestled in the poison ground, and you alone in the vast empty graveyard.`
			`	Your thoughts drift to the man buried beneath your feet.`
			label end
			`	The shadows turn a darker shade of purple as you leave the graveyard of the forgotten dead for the familiar confines of your ship.`
				decline


mission "Timothy Radrickson: Log Fix 1"
	landing
	invisible
	to offer
		has "Timothy Radrickson 1: Stowaway: done"
		not "Timothy Radrickson 2: Good Interlude: offered"
		not "timothy radrickson 1 log entry correct"
	on offer
		remove log "People" "Timothy Radickson"
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `A stowaway I found on my ship. He requested a trip to Rand to start a new life, promising to pay back the money he owes.`
		fail

mission "Timothy Radrickson: Log Fix 2"
	landing
	invisible
	to offer
		has "Timothy Radrickson 2: Good Interlude: offered"
		not "Timothy Radrickson 3d: Return to Rand: done"
		not "timothy radrickson 2 log entry correct"
		not "Timothy Radrickson: Log Fix 1: offered"
	on offer
		remove log "People" "Timothy Radickson"
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `A stowaway I found on my ship. He requested a trip to Rand to start a new life, promising to pay back the money he owes.`
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `Timothy kept his promise, sending 50,000 credits to pay for his trip.`
		fail

mission "Timothy Radrickson: Log Fix 3"
	landing
	invisible
	to offer
		has "Timothy Radrickson 3d: Return to Rand: done"
		not "Timothy Radrickson 4: Imprisoned: done"
		not "timothy radrickson 3 log entry correct"
		not "Timothy Radrickson: Log Fix 2: offered"
	on offer
		remove log "People" "Timothy Radickson"
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `A stowaway I found on my ship. He requested a trip to Rand to start a new life, promising to pay back the money he owes.`
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `Timothy kept his promise, sending 50,000 credits to pay for his trip.`
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `Timothy has since become the governor of Rand.`
		fail

mission "Timothy Radrickson: Log Fix 4"
	landing
	invisible
	to offer
		has "Timothy Radrickson 4: Imprisoned: done"
		not "Timothy Radrickson 5a: Timshank Redemption: offered"
		not "timothy radrickson 4 log entry correct"
		not "Timothy Radrickson: Log Fix 3: offered"
	on offer
		remove log "People" "Timothy Radickson"
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `A stowaway I found on my ship. He requested a trip to Rand to start a new life, promising to pay back the money he owes.`
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `Timothy kept his promise, sending 50,000 credits to pay for his trip.`
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `Timothy has since become the governor of Rand.`
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `Charged with corruption and mired in scandal, Timothy has been disgraced and exiled to Oblivion.`
		fail

mission "Timothy Radrickson: Log Fix 6"
	landing
	invisible
	to offer
		has "Timothy Radrickson 5a: Timshank Redemption: offered"
		not "timothy radrickson 6 log entry correct"
		not "Timothy Radrickson: Log Fix 4: offered"
	on offer
		remove log "People" "Timothy Radickson"
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `A stowaway I found on my ship. He requested a trip to Rand to start a new life, promising to pay back the money he owes.`
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `Timothy kept his promise, sending 50,000 credits to pay for his trip.`
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `Timothy has since become the governor of Rand.`
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `Charged with corruption and mired in scandal, Timothy has been disgraced and exiled to Oblivion.`
		log "People" "Timothy Radrickson" `Tried to help Timothy escape from his prison sentence there.`
		fail



event "stone waiting most"


mission "Stone to Hope"
	name "Bring Tosti's stone to <planet>"
	description "Take Tosti's family stone to <destination>, where the Snaiwaz clan used to live before they immigrated to <origin>."
	to offer
		random < 75
		has "Stone of our Fathers 5: done"
		has "event: stone waiting most"
		not "Ice Queen: offered"
	source "Norn"
	destination "Hope"
	on offer
		conversation
			`There is a certain comfort to be found in the familiar swaying of Norn's spaceport. The creaking bridges no longer feel intimidating or threatening, only welcoming. There's never many staff here, but the few you do run into greet you warmly. Word has apparently spread that you've all but been adopted into the Hlewagasti family.`
			`	Helm, with his sandy hair and short beard, approaches you with a young man in tow. "<first>! It is well to see you again.`
			`	"So..." he says conspiratorially, "... there is no date yet, but a certain red-haired stoic and his exotic Alfheimian girlfriend may be looking at wedding dates."`
			choice
				`	"That's great news!"`
				`	"Do you know when?"`
				`	"Who are you talking about?"`
					goto who
				`	"I don't really care."`
					goto cold

			`	"Like I said, there is no date yet, and with those two it could be years before they finally land on a date. Time's different out on the algae islands." He shrugs.`
			`	"But I thought you'd appreciate a small update on Thorleif." He smiles and then glances at the young man next to him. "Anyways, that's not actually why I sought you out."`
				goto "hope stone"

			label who
			`	"You don't remember Thorleif? My cousin out on the algae islands?" He frowns, but regains his composure and glances at the young man next to him. "Anyways, that's not actually why I sought you out."`
				goto "hope stone"

			label cold
			`	Helm frowns and takes a step back like he's been struck. After a moment he regains his composure and replies, "If you say so. In that case I have another matter to discuss with you."`

			label "hope stone"
			`	Standing beside Helm is an unremarkable young man with a sunburnt face, calloused hands, and threadbare garb. "Ca-Captain <last>?" he says nervously, "I'm sorry to be a bothering you, ser. But I heard tell what you did for Thorleif, and I thought maybe you were the like to do a good turn by me."`
			`	Sensing his discomfort, Helm puts an arm on the young man's shoulder. "It's alright, Tosti, we're all friends on Norn."`
			`	The young man staightens up a bit at Helm's reassurance and looks you in the eyes. "My da, well, he liked the waves well enough, but never really settled here, you see? In his heart that is.`
			`	"He never really left our old home. We were refugees and were ever so glad to be taken in by Norn, but he never felt so tall as when he thought about Hope, about home."`
			choice
				`	"What are you going on about?"`
					goto finish
				`	(Wait for him to get the point.)`
					goto finish
				`	"Leave me alone. I'm not interested."`
			`	Crestfallen, the young man stumbles over his words attempting to apologize for the intrusion and slinks away from you in an ungraceful hurry.`
			`	Helm watches him go with an unhappy frown upon his face. "You could have at least heard him out."`
			`	He shakes his head and turns from you before saying, "I thought better of you."`
				decline

			label finish
			`	Tosti suddenly stops, and takes a deep breath. "We're from Hope, ser. My family. We're refugees and we had to leave everything behind. But da, he never really left Hope."`
			`	The young refugee pulls out a stone criss-crossed in tiny chiseled letters. The familiar engraved story of a life now ended. "This is his stone, and well, he - he'd want his stone left on Hope. I was hoping that was something you could do."`
			`	With the words he swallows and looks at you earnestly.`
			label "hope options"
			choice
				`	"I can take the stone to Hope."`
					goto "hope yes"
				`	"I can take the stone to Hope, for a price."`
					goto "hope price"
				`	"I thought Family-Cairns were exclusive to the Deep. Why would there be one on Hope?"`
					goto "why hope"
					to display
						not "stones"
				`	"Hire a courier. I have more important things to do."`
				`	"No."`

			label "hope no"
			action
				clear "stones"
			`	Helm sighs and tries to pat the young man on the back before he entirely deflates. "Captain <last> is a very busy man. I am sure we can find someone else to make the journey. There is no shame in asking for help."`
			`	Tosti is red and shaking, and mumbles some apologies before slinking away from you and Helm.`
			`	Helm gives you a nod and says, "Thank you for listening, at least."`
				decline

			label "why hope"
			action
				set "stones"
			`	"Lots of the first folks who settled Hope came from the Deep." Helm answers, getting a far off look in his eyes. "It wasn't like most worlds in the south. It was going to be different. At least, that's what they believed."`
			`	He shrugs, "Many of them didn't forget where they came from. Brought the old ways with them. Some refugees, like Tosti's family, even found their way back here when Hope was lost.`
			`	"Anyways, that's why you can find Family-Cairns on Hope - because our people were there. Now, getting back to the matter at hand, you willing to help Tosti out?"`
				goto "hope options"

			label "hope price"
			`	He grimaces, "I am sorry, ser. Work is hard to come by for us refugees. I thought - I thought I'd just ask. In case you were near. In case it was within your power is all."`
			choice
				`	"I might be in the area. No promises though."`
				`	"Alright. I'll do it."`
				`	"Sorry. I don't work for free."`
					goto "hope no"

			label "hope yes"
			action
				clear "stones"
			`	The young man's eyes light up. "Really? Truly? I didn't dare hope..."`
			`	His body weight shifts and it looks as though he's about to hug you before he abruptly stops himself and tries to regain a little composure.`
			`	"Thorleif was right about you," he says as he presses the small, cool stone into your hand. "The Family-Cairn is not far from where the last spaceport used to be. Just by the cliffs, and the family name was Snaiwaz."`
			`	With the stone firmly in your fist, he thanks you one last time, and then takes his leave.`
			`	Helm silently watches him go and then turns back to you, shaking his head. "You're not like any off-worlder I've ever known. Most would have laughed in that boy's face, let alone done him a good turn for free."`
			`	He smiles at you and says, "You really are one of us."`
				accept


mission "Stone to Ice Queen"
	landing
	name "Bring Ildico to <planet>"
	description "You found a woman named Ildico Drifa in an abandoned manor on <origin>. She has asked you to bring her to <destination> so she can escape the abandoned planet."
	source "Hope"
	destination "Clark"
	passengers 1
	to offer
		has "Stone to Hope: done"
	on offer
		conversation "Ice Queen"
	on complete
		conversation "Ice Queen End"


mission "Ice Queen"
	landing
	name "Bring Ildico to <planet>"
	description "You found a woman named Ildico Drifa in an abandoned manor on <origin>. She has asked you to bring her to <destination> so she can escape the abandoned planet."
	source "Hope"
	destination "Clark"
	passengers 1
	to offer
		has "Expedition to Hope 2: done"
		not "Stone to Hope: done"
		random < 5
	on offer
		conversation "Ice Queen"
	on complete
		conversation "Ice Queen End"


conversation "Ice Queen"
	branch "has stone"
		has "Stone to Hope: done"
	`There is nothing here. Only unceasing desolation. The slow churning of hateful ice that swallowed the dream of a world. Yet, here you are. You've landed along the equator, where the environment is not quite so hostile, and where patches of unconquered ice-free rock still reign.`
	`	Beyond your ship are the ruins of the last unfrozen city. Where the final refugees huddled together awaiting their saviors, the Republic Navy, and were whisked away to other more welcoming worlds.`
	choice
		`	(Explore the area.)`
			goto explore
		`	(Leave this world.)`
	`	There is nothing here anyone could want. You leave this abandoned world to its glaciers and ghosts.`
		decline

	label explore
	`	You break out the cold gear and dress yourself in warm layers with sturdy boots. Furtive frost cracks and breaks as your ship's door opens, and you step out into the cold air. This world's dim light reflects painfully off the ice and snow, momentarily blinding you.`
	`	Once outside in the sharp, crisp air it's easy to find the dismal ruins of this world's last spaceport. The trek is slow and clumsy in the unfamiliar gravity and granular snow.`
	`	You work around the silent spaceport, where the half-buried hangars are littered with the forgotten mementos of desperate refugees, and many of the buildings are lost beneath the encroaching ice. Eventually you see a cliff edge with dozens of cairns piled along it. Silent watchers of the churning glaciers.`
	`	The sun begins to set, and you can already feel the temperature beginning to plummet. There's not much else to see in this abandoned world, and it may be time to head back.`
		goto building

	label "has stone"
	`There is nothing here. Only unceasing desolation. The slow churning of hateful ice that swallowed the dream of a world. Yet, here you are. You've landed along the equator, where the environment is not quite so hostile, and where patches of unconquered ice-free rock still reign.`
	`	Beyond your ship are the ruins of the last unfrozen city. Where the final refugees huddled together awaiting their saviors, the Republic Navy, and were whisked away to other more welcoming worlds.`
	choice
		`	(Search for the Snaiwaz Family-Cairn.)`
			goto "cairn search"
		`	(Toss the stone out your hatch and leave this world.)`

	action
		set "chucked tosti's stone"
	`	The stone of Tosti's father tumbles out of the ship and comes to rest in a heap of cluttered refuse. This is as close as it will get to its Family-Cairn, and far closer than Tosti could have gotten it on his own.`
		decline

	label "cairn search"
	`	You break out the cold gear and dress yourself in warm layers with sturdy boots. Furtive frost cracks and breaks as your ship's door opens, and you step out into the cold air. This world's dim light reflects painfully off the ice and snow, momentarily blinding you.`
	`	Once outside in the sharp, crisp air it's easy to find the dismal ruins of this world's last spaceport. The trek is slow and clumsy in the unfamiliar gravity and granular snow.`
	`	You work around the silent spaceport, where the half-buried hangars are littered with the forgotten mementos of desperate refugees, and many of the buildings are lost beneath the encroaching ice. Eventually you find the cliffs that Tosti spoke of, and the many dozens of Family-Cairns piled along side it. Silent watchers of the churning glaciers.`
	`	You see a nearly toppled Family-Cairn with the name "Snaiwaz" at its base.`
	choice
		`	(Place Tosti's father's stone.)`
			goto "place stone"
		`	(Throw the stone off the side of the cliff.)`

	action
		set "threw tosti's stone"
	`	You hurl the stone far beyond the cliff side and down into glacial slopes beneath it, forever separated from its kindred-stones.`
		decline

	label "place stone"
	action
		set "placed tosti's stone"
	`	Carefully you place Tosti's stone with the others. The act is greeted only by the deafening silence and the icy air of the abandoned world.`
	`	The sun is setting and your task here is done. You start making your way back through ice and ruin to your ship.`

	label building
	`	As you pass around one corner of the sagging spaceport, you notice a large, ice-free building in the distance with a light burning within.`
	choice
		`	(Enter the building.)`
			goto "lit building"
		`	(Keep heading toward your ship.)`

	`	Whatever is going on in that building, it has nothing to do with you, and so you ignore it and return to your waiting ship.`
		decline
	
	label "lit building"
	`	You enter into the sturdy and unfrozen building at the edge of the spaceport.`
	`	Faded wealth still clings to peeling walls of this once spacious manor. It is evident that it was once the heart and hearth of a wealthy family in an earlier, warmer time. The home feels like a tomb or a museum; it seems as if everything here has been left in a certain way for a long time. But as you work deeper into its nested walls you begin to see signs of much more recent life.`
	`	Eventually you find your way to the kitchen, which appears to be the epicenter of activity in this household. You see assorted survival rations and gear strewn about everywhere. More alarmingly, you also see a young woman sitting on the floor with her back against a counter.`
	choice
		`	"Who are you?"`
		`	"Are you okay?"`
		`	"What are you doing here?"`

	`	The woman has short jet black hair. She's wearing a military grade, all-purpose survival suit, the kind you might see on deeply embedded special forces. The only weapon on her is a decorated knife at her belt. She looks pale and frail, probably malnourished. But her icy eyes are clear, and she locks them onto you.`
	`	"You come into my home, and expect me to answer your questions?" Her voice is steady.`
	`	Slowly, awkwardly, she pulls herself to her feet, keeping one hand on the counter for balance. She rests her other hand over her knife.`
	`	"You are lucky that you did not barge in here a year ago, or even a month ago." Despite her bravado there is a deep wariness behind her words. "Now tell me, who are you, and what are you doing here?" she asks, through gritted teeth.`
	choice
		`	(Tell her who you are, and how you were just delivering a stone.)`
			to display
				has "Stone to Hope: done"
		`	(Tell her who you are, and how you were just out exploring.)`
		`	(Tell her it's none of her business.)`

	`	The woman nods slowly, and then painfully, slides back down to the ground.`
	`	Her eyes fall to the floor. "I have no choice but to trust you. I have lived here all my life, but my equipment has failed. I never wanted to leave, I was never meant to leave, but I won't let the ice win. I won't let it take me, too."`
	`	She looks back up at you with her piercing eyes. "I am Ildico, last of House Drifa, daughter of Deoric, once one of the most powerful men on Hope. Everyone fled the ice. The Republic Navy made it easy. Enter their ships and be shipped off to paradise, to live as nobodies at the sufferance of strangers.`
	`	"But we were House Drifa. More than anyone else we built this world, and we would not abandon it to be someone else's dredges. My father bought supplies, equipment, necessities from the Navy. Enough so that me, my brother, and my mother could survive here."`
	`	She pauses, as though unsure she wants to continue; then finally, in a less firm voice: "And then my father left. He said that dozens of worlds, worse off than ours, were terraformed every day. He said all they needed was a little convincing, and that he would come back with the support to terraform, and save, Hope. And then... he never came back."`
	`	Ildico sighs. "A treasure hunter killed my brother a few years back. My mother... she is also dead, and I am starving. I have no way to contact anyone else, and no one else is left.`
	`	"So, what do you say," she says while leaning her head back, clearly exhausted by this exchange. "Will you kill me? Take advantage of me? Save me? Or leave me... to die?"`
	choice
		`	"Come with me. It's time you gave up on Hope."`
			goto "come with me"
		`	"I'll get you out of here. After that, no promises."`
			goto "come with me"
		`	"I don't have time for wretches. You're on your own."`
	`	Ildico, her eyes still closed, takes a deep breath. She opens her eyes just as she lunges at you, with a swift arm motion toward your head. Before you have a chance to react, her knife is embedded deep in your throat.`
	`	You're on the ground now, with ruby red blood oozing out over the cold floor. You hear a strange moan escaping from your mouth, and Ildico's hands are in your pockets removing everything you have of value.`
	`	As the world fades to black, you hear her talking, her words sound as though they are coming from a great distance. "Like I said, I won't die here. Thanks for the ship."`
	`	Your vision grows darker until only a single point of light remains. You don't feel cold, or pain, or anything at all. You just feel heavy. So heavy. Too heavy. So, you let go.`
		die

	label "come with me"
	`	You help her back onto her feet, and with her leaning on you, the two of you make your way back outside and through the perilous cold to your ship.`
	`	Once aboard, after she's eaten and regained a little of her strength, she comes to talk with you.`
	`	"Thank you for saving me. There are places I need to go. But I know I cannot force you to take me. And I have no credits to pay you. If you could take me to <planet>, I could make my own way from there."`
	choice
		`	"Anywhere you need to go, I can take you."`
			goto "where she needs to go"
		`	"Okay, I'll take you to <planet>, but after that you're on your own."`
			accept

	label "where she needs to go"
	`	Ildico narrows her eyes. "Nothing is free."`
	choice
		`	"I just want to make the universe a better place."`
		`	"It's karma. What goes around comes around."`
		`	"One day you'll be able to pay me back."`
		`	"It's how they do things on Norn."`
			to display
				has "Stone to Hope: done"
		`	"My reasons are my own."`

	action
		set "helpildico"
	`	Ildico doesn't react for a moment, seemingly taking in your words.`
	`	At length she nods slowly. "We'll see."`
	`	She pauses again and then shrugs. "It's not like I have anything to lose... very well. I need to discover what happened to my father. I know he first went to Clark to meet with a terraforming firm there. That's where I start my search."`
		launch

conversation "Ice Queen End"
	branch "help ildico"
		has "helpildico"
	`Your thrusters kick up fresh dust as you land on your assigned concrete pad in the sprawling spaceport. Ildico, looking less pale and significantly more sturdy, waits by the exit.`
	`	"Thank you for getting me out of there. After all those years on the ice this place will be no challenge for me. Perhaps someday our paths will cross again. If they do, I will remember this small kindness."`
	`	She gives you a stern nod, and then exits your ship and into the chaos of Clark.`
		goto end

	label "help ildico"
	`Your thrusters kick up fresh dust as you land on your assigned concrete pad on the fringes of the sprawling spaceport. Ildico, looking less pale and significantly more sturdy, waits by the exit.`
	`	"The terraforming firm is certain to have an office, or booth, in the ramshackle spaceport here. Let's pay them a visit."`
	label end


mission "Ice Queen 2"
	name "Find Ildico's Father"
	description "Look for Ildico's father on <destination>, where he went after he left Clark."
	source "Clark"
	destination "Glory"
	passengers 1
	to offer
		has "helpildico"
		or
			has "Ice Queen: done"
			has "Stone to Ice Queen: done"

	on offer
		conversation
			`Pushing through the boomtown hustle and bustle, you and Ildico make your way to a series of kiosks, booths, and hastily constructed offices that serve a variety of needs and functions in the ever-growing world of Clark.`
			`	Among these you find the offices of "Clark's Third Law Terraformists." Ildico steps in front of you and enters first.`
			`	An older man with greying hair and a bit of a paunch looks up from his desk. He stands up genially as both of you approach and says, "Howdy friends, I am Eustace Goodfellow, and welcome to our cozy establishment. Do you have need of a little terraforming?" Eustace flashes a wide open smile.`
			`	"Yes. I'd like to terraform the planet Hope." Ildico says flatly.`
			`	"Well, uh, ma'am. We don't, that is to say, we're not that kind of terraforming firm. We do small jobs. Touch ups. We can't... we can't terraform a world, and I don't..." Eustace looks at both of you carefully before saying, "I don't think you could pay for it either."`
			`	Ildico leaps over the desk and grabs Eustace by his collar. "Is that what you told my father, Lord of House Drifa? Did you send him away like some misbegotten pauper?"`
			`	Eustace pales and holds out his hands. "Please, let me go. I meant no insult."`
			choice
				`	(Don't interfere.)`
				`	(Tell Ildico to calm down.)`
			`	Ildico releases his collar, but remains only inches from his face. "Did Deoric Drifa come here years ago asking to terraform Hope?"`
			`	Eustace takes a step back, and nods vigorously. "Yes, yes. I remember him. You don't forget a man like him, or a request like his. He asked about terraforming Hope. As I said earlier, we aren't that kind of firm. I told him he'd have to talk to the Academy of Planetary Sciences on <planet> for that kinda work. And then he left.`
			`	"Please." Eustace says, backing up further. "That's all I know about him. I never saw him again."`
			`	Ildico stares at him for a few more moments, and then turns and passes you on her way to the exit.`
			`	She opens the door and nods to you. "We're going to <planet>."`
				accept

	on complete
		conversation
			`To some Glory is a testament to human ingenuity, skill, and potential. It is the dream made real, the promise proven true. A world perfectly sculpted to suit the needs, desires, and tastes of humanity. Nothing here is left to chance; every inch carefully, artfully, manifested by man's will.`
			`	And yet, to others, it is grotesque, a mockery of nature. A lie made into a monument. As you deal with the Republic spaceport officials you notice the plastic-perfect denizens walking around, staring at your defective face and your workworn ship.`
			`	"There is no beauty here," Ildico says vacantly when you're finished with the officials. "Only vanity."`
			`	The spaceport's transport terminal has a direct rail link to the Academy of Planetary Sciences. Perhaps you could find out what happened to Ildico's father in the Academy.`


mission "Ice Queen 3"
	name "Find Ildico's Father"
	description "Professor McGiven told you that Ildico's father now works for the Republic on <destination>. Bring Ildico there to see if you can visit him."
	to offer
		has "Ice Queen 2: done"
	source "Glory"
	destination "Chiron"
	passengers 1
	on offer
		conversation
			`The Academy of Planetary Sciences is a campus the size of a small nation-state on Earth. Various artificially created and maintained microclimates abound as you travel between miniature mountains and micro-savannahs; between marshland and jungle, desert and forest. Impossible machines - some larger than skyscrapers - litter the twisted and ever-changing landscape, and terraforming satellites make meteor showers overhead in the dawn light. This is a place where anything is possible, and land bends eagerly to the whims of the terraforming wizards.`
			`	Eventually, Ildico and you make it to the primary reception complex, where after hours of filling out inane forms, and waiting in different meaningless queues, you finally reach someone who can help you. An old visitor list shows that one Deoric Drifa had visited a Professor Ian McGiven, Second Degree Terraformer and World Warming specialist in JZ86 Cantos-B of Cooling Block 9 in the Everest Facility.`
			`	The receptionist helpfully draws you a map to where you're going. She also lets you know that in order to visit him you'll need to fill out six other forms first. You get to work.`
			choice
				`	(Fill out the forms.)`
			`	You input your standard credentials. Full name, date of birth, location of birth, occupation, ID, social and civil information, and signature. You flip the form over, moving to the next.`
			choice
				`	(Fill out more forms.)`
			`	A page straight out of an entry exam faces you. Accompanied by a set of dots representing if or how often you have caught them, are dozens of labels noting common diseases along with illnesses you thought had been eradicated. The majority of options consist of words and names you imagine must represent some serious conditions, but which you have no recollection of ever reading or hearing about. After scraping your memory as best as you can for your medical history, you eventually finish filling out the last set of dots, and sign. Sighing, you flip the form.`
			choice
				`	(Continue filling out forms.)`
			`	You begin to wonder how it was less bureaucratically stressful to purchase your first ship than it is to schedule an encounter with a campus professor here. When the form prompts you for your address, you scramble out of the room to research what spaceship captains should fill out in such cases. After many contradicting forums and blatantly outdated government websites, you return and put in the best answer you can think of. Then the form specifically requires you to input the institution you studied at, here on <origin>. Again you set to look for answers on how to respond when you are not even from the planet this form is from. After a few more questions, you start to zone out and just automatically input whatever seems least likely to get the form rejected, based on online tips and nebulous descriptions from government pages.`
			`	The receptionist brings a few of the earlier forms you filled out and helpfully points out a few mistakes for you to fix.`
			choice
				`	(Fix the forms you already filled out.)`
			`	As it turns out, your bank account is not compatible with the due process the forms here are a part of. You download an application to open your very own account on one of the local banks, after checking with the receptionist that this one is compatible. After a few more minutes (and a great many attempts at fitting your face in a camera shot for a mandatory facial recognition step) your new bank details are ready and filled in the forms, which you turn over with haste. Surely it must be ending soon.`
			choice
				`	(Fill out the final set of forms.)`
			`	In this wondrous paradise of terraforming, a true testament to human ingenuity and mastery over nature, you are close to fuming with frustration at the inability of the local machinery to recognize your signature. For the better part of an hour you get to work on every form again, straining your arms as you slowly, carefully imprint your signature again, on every one of them, as identical to each other as you can.`
			`	A few painfully tedious hours after you first arrived, all the right forms have been filled out and you're met by an intern in a small vehicle.`
			`	She glances at her electronic clipboard. "Captain <last>? Lady Drifa? I am here to escort you to the Everest Facility." She opens the door and gestures to you two. "Please climb aboard. I know the confines are quite small, but the E.F. is only a few kilometers away."`
			`	Ildico glares at the young woman suspiciously, then turns to you. "Can we trust her?"`
			`	The intern looks confused and a little hurt, but says nothing.`
			choice
				`	"We can trust her. We're in no danger here."`
					goto "no danger"
				`	"I'll protect you. Don't worry."`
					goto protect
				`	"We have no choice if you want answers."`
			`	Ildico nods and then enters the vehicle and you follow behind her.`
				goto ridealong
			
			label "no danger"
			`	Ildico barks out a laugh. "So naive. We are always in danger. But for answers I will risk it."`
			`	She carefully checks the inside of the vehicle before carefully climbing in.`
			choice
				`	(Follow her in.)`
					goto ridealong

			label protect
			`	Ildico laughs heartily and sheds a couple tears. "You? Protect me?" She wipes her tears as her mirth subsides and her cold intense coutenance reasserts itself.`
			`	"No, <first>. I will protect you." Her voice is deadly serious. She then inspects the inside of the vehicle carefully and takes a seat. "It seems safe. And I need answers."`
			choice
				`	(Follow her in.)`

			label ridealong
			`	After a brief ride through the campus you are escorted deeper and deeper into the maze that is the Everest Facility. Another half an hour of hallways, and turns, and stairs and ups and downs, you finally find yourself inside Ian McGiven's office.`
			`	The man hears your inquiry and nods earnestly. "Ah, yes, of course I remember the fellow! What an interesting meeting that was," Ian says from behind his small desk.`
			`	"Obviously, the details are confidential, but in very broad generalities, he wanted me to warm up a freezing world."`
			`	Ildico doesn't blink; on second thought, you're not sure you've ever seen her blink. "Hope. Yes, and could you warm it?"`
			`	Ian laughs. "Oh, of course, a job like that would have been quite simple."`
			`	"Then why didn't you?" The tension is obvious in Ildico's voice.`
			`	Ian shrugs. "Though he could afford it, there were other concerns."`
			`	Ildico steps forward and looms over Ian like an angry shadow. It appears that it is taking all of her willpower to keep her from ripping this man apart. "Concerns?"`
			`	"Y-yes. I don't know the specifics. You have to understand, here at the Academy it's not just about money. It's about politics, and power. I am just a Second Degree Terraformer, and after the initial meeting I wasn't privy to the details. But someone, or some government or corporation didn't want it. If you want to know more you'll have to ask him yourself."`
			`	Ildico seems to deflate. "Ask him? Is... is he here?"`
			`	The terraformer shakes his head. "Oh, no. He doesn't work for the Academy. But after the rejection he went to the heart of the Republic, I assume to find out why. He now works for them. I see his name from time to time. Just head to the Republic's main office for the Department of Migration, which is located on Chiron."`
			`	Without saying another word, Ildico turns and leaves. You thank Ian for his help and follow her out.`
				accept


mission "Ice Queen 4"
	landing
	invisible
	source "Chiron"
	passengers 1
	to offer
		has "Ice Queen 3: done"
	on offer
		event "deoricdeeds" 700
		conversation
			`It's easy to imagine Earth once looked and felt much like Chiron does today. A vibrant world, full of engaged and motivated people, all in a hurry to change the universe - or at least, to run it.`
			`	The Department of Migration, Stellar Populations and Advanced Interplanetary Economics is easy enough to find. What's surprising is how quickly you are ushered into a waiting room outside the office of one Mr. Drifa, Sub-Executive of Multiplanetary Pricing.`
			`	After a brief wait, a young secretary announces that Mr. Drifa is ready to see you, and brings you and Ildico into his office.`
			`	"So what can I help you with..." Deoric Drifa's voice trails off as he sees Ildico.`
			`	Ildico tries to step forward than stops herself. She freezes up.`
			`	"It can't be," the elder Drifa whispers.`
			`	"Why. Didn't. You. Come?" Ildico forces out each word.`
			`	"I sent for you. They told me you were all dead. They found bodies... and the generator blown."`
			`	"The accident..." Ildico says more to herself than anyone else. And then in that instant she unfreezes, emotions roil through her, and she runs to her father, with everything forgiven.`
			`	After a long tear-filled embrace she disengages and wipes her eyes. "Early on the generator blew and we had to evacuate the compound. Some people died... including Hogne." She glances at you and says, "He was my older brother."`
			`	She continues, "I salvaged what I could and set up at home. I've been there the whole time."`
			`	"It's my fault," Deoric says. "I should have gone and looked for you myself. I would have known where to look."`
			`	They talk about family, the time apart, and what happened back on Hope. Finally, Ildico turns her attention back to you.`
			`	"Thank you for bringing me here, <first>. For sticking with me. I appreciate it." She gives you the first real genuine smile you've seen on her face.`
			choice
				`	"No problem, Ildico."`
				`	"You're welcome, Ildico."`

			`	She looks at you for just a moment, as if in thought, and then says, "If we ever meet again, call me Ildy. It's what my friends call me."`
			`	With that you take your leave.`
				decline


event "deoricdeeds"


mission "Ice Queen 5"
	landing
	name "Visit Ildico"
	description "Ildico has asked you to visit her on <destination>."
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
	destination "Chiron"
	to offer
		has "event: deoricdeeds"

	on offer
		dialog
			`Your inbox blinks with a new message from Ildico on Chiron:`
			``
			`	"I need to see you. Please come. My address is attached.`
			`				-your friend`
			`					Ildy"`

	on complete
		dialog
			`The myriad lights of urban settlements twinkle in the dusk as you approach the capital, and main spaceport, of Chiron. Crickets, brought from old Earth, chirp in the twilight air. Your ship parked, you'll need to make your way to the main spaceport to hire transportation to Ildico's address.`


mission "Ice Queen 6"
	name "Take Ildico to <planet>"
	description "Smuggle Ildico and her child to <destination>."
	source "Chiron"
	destination "Haven"
	passengers 2
	illegal 1250000 `Ildico Drifa is dragged away in chains for high crimes against the Republic. You can only watch in silence as they are removed from your ship and her infant child is taken into custody. You end up fined for your actions.`
	stealth
	to offer
		has "Ice Queen 5: done"

	on offer
		conversation
			`The directions Ildico gave you take you beyond the bustling city and out into the large estates owned by the Republic political elite; Drifa Manor sits atop a low hill with what must be a very expensive view of New Sydney. The architecture of the building is reminiscent of upper-class villas you've seen in the Deep.`
			`	As you approach the main gate you find it wide open, and the attached security booth is abandoned. You could just walk right in.`
			choice
				`	(Walk right in.)`
					goto walk
				`	(Investigate before entering.)`
			`	The gate itself appears to have been opened from the inside, not broken into, and there are no signs of a struggle in the security booth. The employee parking beyond is also completely empty. It seems everyone left fast and didn't bother to close the gate behind them. You're entirely alone out here.`
			choice
				`	(Walk right in.)`
					goto walk
				`	(Leave.)`
			`	Whatever this is; you decide you aren't interested. Ildico will just have to fend for herself.`
				decline

			label walk
			`	The spacious building is eerily empty of servants. Doors are left often, incomplete tasks clutter the floor. Whatever happened here, the people left in a hurry.`
			`	There's a loud crashing noise in the floor above you. You ascend the central grand staircase following the noise.`
			`	There are streaks of crimson blood across the opulent decor and a pool of it settles in the center of the room. Lavish baroque furniture is stained with the carnage.`
			`	At the center of it all is a ravaged dead body on the floor, and above it stands a bloody, grinning Ildico.`
			choice
				`	"Ildico, what's going on?"`
				`	"Are you hurt? Do you need help?"`
				`	"What have you done?"`
				`	(Say nothing.)`

			`	She ignores you, her attention focused elsewhere.`
			`	"You thought," Ildico says as she catches her breath, "that you could sell me? That you could give me to this bureaucrat who signed Hope's death warrant?" She kicks the lifeless body at her feet. "That I would be your pawn, your tool, your object in order to gain favor and promotion?"`
			`	The raven-haired woman laughs, as she cleans off her bloody dagger, and takes a step toward a figure cowering in the corner. The man you recognize as her father.`
			`	"Wh-what have you done? You've ruined everything. I was so close. I would have had it all." Deoric blinks, his face sets in hard, and he straightens up, he looks as if he just remembered who he is.`
			`	"You stupid, selfish, arrogant brat. You just needed to do as you were told. To play your pathetic part. You couldn't, could you? You were always worthless. If only your brother had survived." Deoric picks up a broken furniture leg and confidently wields it like a club.`
			`	At this Ildico's wicked grin widens deeper. "My brother? Dear Hogne. Father, I killed him. He couldn't handle the ice, the isolation, the hopelessness of Hope. He lost his mind. He tried to make me his wife. And mother? She cracked long before that. An entitled debutante like her had no chance in that hellhole, and I? I needed to eat."`
			`	The color drains out of Deoric's face. "Monster." He says. "I will put an end to you. I will start a new family, as I should have before."`
			`	Deoric lunges at Ildico, but before he can take more then a single step, Ildico's wrist flicks and her knife slams into Deoric's throat. He falls to the ground, bleeding out, dying.`
			`	Ildico stands over him. "You are a coward. A miserable disgusting man." She spits on him, and pulls her dagger from his heaving neck. He tries to speak as his dying body squirms, but no words materialize and he goes still.`
			`	She turns to you. "I am now a fugitive, and you are my only friend. I need you to get us out of here."`
			`	Ildico walks back to corner far from any of the fighting, and retrieves a bundled baby you'd neglected to notice until now.`
			choice
				`	"You got it. Let's go."`
				`	"Anything for you, Ildy."`
				`	"Sure, but you owe me. Big."`
				`	"No way. You're a murderer. I want nothing to do with you."`
					goto leave
				`	"Stop right there. I am putting you under citizen's arrest until the police arrive."`
					goto arrest

			`	She nods, her face softens, and tears glitter around her eyes. "Thank you, I knew- I knew I could count on you."`
			`	Ildico recollects herself for a moment before pointing to a briefcase lying by a table. "Grab that, and let's go."`
			choice
				`	"Go where?"`
					goto where
				`	"What's in the briefcase?"`
			`	The recently widowed woman gives you a suspicious look, but then nods. "What I need to survive.`
			`	"Now grab it, and let's go."`
			choice
				`	"Go where?"`
					goto where
				`	(Grab the briefcase.)`
			`	"We need to go where the Republic cannot. Take us to <planet>." She gives you a serious look and adds, "And do not let anyone scan your ship until we get there."`
			`	The three of you escape out into the night and onto your ship.`
				launch

			label where
			`	She sighs. "Not the Republic, nor the Free Worlds. After tonight I will be hunted. We need to go to <planet>." She looks at you seriously and says, "And do not let anyone scan your ship until we get there."`
			`	The three of you escape out into the night and onto your ship.`
				launch

			label arrest
			`	Ildico puts her baby back down, and for just a second you see agony in her eyes. Killing her father or her arranged husband didn't break her mask, but somehow this does. A tear rolls down her cheek. She moves fast, her arm darting and pointing a course at you, but the distance gives you just enough time to move. You barely avoid her dagger, and point your sidearm straight at her.`
			`	As you use your communicator to call the local authorities, Ildico glares at you, a broken expression on her face. "I thought I had one friend. What a fool I was. I'll never make that mistake again," is all she says, just as the security officers arrive. After a struggle, they manage to restrain Ildico, and separate her from the baby. Her stare pierces you all the way out of the estate. The officer in charge of the arrest thanks you for the report and for keeping Ildico in place until they arrived. They assure you that Ildico will be given a fair trial, and that the baby will be handled with care.`
			`	You watch the security vehicles take them both away, suddenly aware that you will likely never see either of them again.`
				decline

			label leave
			`	Ildico puts her baby back down, and for just a second you see agony in her eyes. Killing her father or her arranged husband didn't break her mask, but somehow this does. A tear rolls down her cheek.`
			`	Her hand wavers, trembles, over her knife, and then she drops it, and her head. "So then go."`
				decline

	on complete
		outfit "Blood of Surtr"
		payment 500000
		event "pirateildy" 611
		conversation
			`Having evaded Republic patrols on the lookout for the "Murderous Heiress," you make it to the pirate planet of Haven. Ildico watches the dismal landscape as you land and says, almost curtly, "It'll do."`
			`	She opens the briefcase she took off Chiron, revealing a storage device and an oranate wooden box.`
			`	Ildico gives you a sly smile. "It took years, but the majority of the Drifa fortune has been smuggled into this storage device. They thought I was meek, malleable, and pitiful. Not a threat. They were fools."`
			`	She holds up the box. "And in this, well, this may take some explaining. Before we migrated to Hope, the Drifa were old nobility in the Deep. Legend says we ruled Valhalla before the first ships came. Whatever the truth, my ancestors had this in their possession as a sign of their royalty, this bauble."`
			`	Ildico opens the rune-carved lid of the box, revealing a faintly glowing red rock. "It is called the Blood of Surtr, and it was said to have been the symbol of our rulership, and more importantly, a source of power."`
			`	She shrugs. "I know it sounds far-fetched. But I had this with me on Hope, and I don't think I would have survived without it. When the generators went down, this kept the lights on.`
			`	"But its time with me is over. I want you, the last friend of House Drifa, and the only person who has shown me any kindness in many years, to have it.`
			scene "outfit/surtrblood"
			`	"I'll also transfer a small sum of money for your troubles. I fear I will be needing most of my family's fortune, but hopefully what little I can offer will help."`
			choice
				`	"Thank you."`
					goto "gotta go"
				`	"Is it wise for you and your child to be left alone in a place like Haven?"`

			`	She laughs. "After surviving on Hope and Chiron? Haven will be a cakewalk."`
				goto end

			label "gotta go"
			`	"No, it is my appreciation that has to be given. You have done what few would have the conviction to do."`

			label end
			`	She takes her child in one hand, and the briefcase in the other, and walks off your ship.`


event "pirateildy"


mission "Ice Queen 7"
	landing
	name "Meet Ildy on <planet>"
	description "See what Ildico needs on <destination>."
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
	destination "Haven"
	to offer
		has "event: pirateildy"
	on offer
		dialog
			`Your inbox blinks with a new message from Ildico from Haven:`
			``
			`	"It's been too long, and I could use your help. Please, come to <planet>.`
			`				- Your friend,`
			`					Ildy"`

	on complete
		dialog
			`Even from orbit, Haven looks ugly, and as you approach the planet it doesn't get any better. Upon landing you're alerted Ildico is waiting for you in the spaceport.`


mission "Ice Queen 8"
	name "Defeat Ildico's rivals"
	description "Ildico has requested you to destroy a fleet of Marauder ships near the <system> system. Once you're done, return to <planet>."
	source "Haven"
	to offer
		has "Ice Queen 7: done"
	on offer
		conversation
			`You arrive at the address Ildico gave you; a large warehouse on the edge of the spaceport. When you step into the dimly lit building, your eyes struggle to adjust, and gradually you realize you're face-to-face with a group of dirty burly men and women leveling a half-dozen weapons right at you.`
			`	"Looks like someone's lost," a voice rises from the group, though you can't tell who's speaking.`
			`	"They look right fancy. Good thing we found them."`
			`	"Whaddya say, Frank, kill 'em now? Or keep 'em for a bit? Maybe their worth something? Maybe we can have some fun with 'em."`
			choice
				`	"I am looking for Ildy."`
				`	"Ildy asked me to come here."`
				`	"Ildy, help!"`
				`	(Grab your sidearm and shoot your way out.)`
					goto why?

			`	The band of cut-throats looks at you, confused, and then most of them lower their weapons.`
			`	"Boss," one of them hollers, "this stranger says they're here for you, I think."`
			`	Footsteps echo on the opposite side of the warehouse as someone approaches.`
			`	One of the men starts laughing. "Ildy?! Haha, never thought to call her that. Hey Ildy! How come you never told us to call you that? Or that some kind of special pet name?"`
			`	The man flashes an unsavory grin at you, with his rotting teeth on full display.`
			`	In the dim light the footsteps materialize into a woman in her mid-thirties with hair darker than vacuum. Ildico Drifa gives you a warm smile, then lifts up a gun and fires.`
			choice
				`	(Duck.)`
					goto duck
				`	(Jump to the side.)`
					goto jump
				`	(Do nothing.)`
			`	You don't flinch as the rotten-toothed man besides you crumples to the ground, a bullet hole in his head.`
				goto "only friends"
			label jump
			`	You jump to the side, knocking against some empty barrels, only to realize she wasn't aiming at you. The rotten-toothed man lies dead on the ground, a bullet hole in his head.`
				goto "only friends"
			label duck
			`	You duck, startled by the attack, only to realize she wasn't aiming at you. The rotten-toothed man lies dead on the ground, a bullet hole in his head.`
			label "only friends"
			`	She looks to the rest of her crew, "Only my friends call me Ildy. And I have only one friend."`
			`	"Yes, boss."`
			`	"Got it, boss."`
			`	"Sure thing, Cap."`
			`	"Whatever you say, boss."`
			`	The group of pirates melt away into the warehouse, one of them dragging the dead body, leaving you and Ildy relatively alone.`
			`	"I'm glad you came, <first>." Ildico puts a friendly hand on your shoulder and squeezes.`
			`	She turns and waves toward the warehouse. "This is my temporary headquarters. I have few other safe-houses, and I own part of a hangar elsewhere. Not too many ships yet, but that will change soon."`
			`	Ildico holsters her gun right next to where she keeps her ornate dagger and continues. "But making moves is hard. Everyone wants to be on top. Which is why I need you."`
			`	She looks you in the eye and says, "There's a rival gang right next door. They have a lot more firepower, but if they could be removed, we could easily double our territory.`
			`	"I don't have the ships," she glances at her gang in the distance, "or the quality of crew, to deal with them.`
			`	"But I think you do. I can't afford to pay you right now, things are pretty fluid, but I'll owe you. So, are you in?"`
			choice
				`	"Sure, I'll help."`
				`	"Fine. But you're going to owe me big when this is all over."`
				`	"Anything for you, Ildy."`
				`	"Not interested."`
					goto uninterested

			`	Her smile lights up the dim room. "I always know I can count on you. And only you."`
			`	"I fed the gang some false information. They have their entire fleet hunting some juicy merchant ships that don't actually exist, so they'll be surprised when they find you instead."`
			`	"Check out the nearby systems and look for their flagship, the <npc>. Kill them all, and come back here. To me."`
				accept

			label uninterested
			`	Ildico frowns. She looks down at her feet for a moment, and when she looks back up her face is a mask of rage and hurt. "Then get out."`
				decline

			label why?
			`	Acting defiantly in the face of so much danger, you reach for your sidearm. Unfortunately, it's in vain, because as soon as you feel the pistol grip in your hand you simultaneously feel the burning sensations of a flurry of bullets entering your body and tearing apart your insides.`
				die

	npc kill
		government "Bounty"
		personality heroic nemesis staying target
		system
			distance 1 2
		fleet "Marauder fleet IV"
		dialog `The rival pirate fleet has been destroyed. You should return to Haven now to check up on Ildico.`

	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic fleet bounty hunting on visit"

	on complete
		conversation
			`There's been intense fighting around the district where Ildico's warehouse was located. A few gunshots echo as you make your way through the rubble and around the fires.`
			`	A group of injured but high-spirited pirates are set up outside the building, and there are bodies littering the nearby streets. An unharmed but bloody Ildico walks up to you, smiling. She is trailed by a small incongruous toddler with short black hair and lopsided grin.`
			`	"Perfect. They never had a chance." She wipes the blood off her dagger, and notices your gaze.`
			`	"The safest place for her was by my side," she says matter-of-factly to you, then she kneels down to her daughter. "Randalin, this is <first>. You met them long ago when you were a baby. <first> is my friend."`
			`	She stands up again and looks back at you. "And <first>, this is Randalin. She's grown a bit since last you saw her."`
			choice
				`	"Hi, Randalin. It's wonderful to meet you."`
					goto "hi rand"
				`	(Nod at the child.)`
					goto "only you"
				`	"She was with you for the battle?"`
			`	Ildico shrugs. "Who would I trust with her? Who could I trust with her? Only you, <first>, and you were elsewhere."`
				goto "only you"

			label "hi rand"
			`	The little girl lifts a chubby fist up to you.`
			choice
				`	(Fist bump her.)`
					goto bump
				`	(Shake her fist.)`
			`	You awkwardly take her fist in your hand and shake it up and down. Randalin giggles, and babbles something incoherent.`
				goto words
			
			label bump
			`	Her small fist bumps against yours. She then gives you an easy grin and babbles something incoherent.`

			label words
			`	"She's not quite got the hang of words yet. But they'll come," Ildico says approvingly.`
			
			label "only you"
			`	Ilidco puts a hand on Randalin's shoulder and draws her close. She turns her attention back to the battlefield.`
			`	"This is only the beginning, <first>." Her eyes blaze as she speaks, "House Drifa will rise again. You'll see. You'll be there."`
			`	She glances back toward her mulling forces. "Thanks again, it means a lot that I can count on you, but I have to work to do. Until next time."`
			`	Ildico returns to her group, barking orders and gesturing at the rubble, leaving you to your own devices.`


mission "Ice Queen: News"
	source
		government "Republic" "Free Worlds" "Syndicate" "Neutral" "Independent"
		near "Arneb" 10
	to offer
		has "Ice Queen 8: done"
		random < 3
	on offer
		conversation
			`A news kiosk is doing a segment on the growing threat of pirates around Haven. A certain name catches your eye, and you read:`
			`	Self-styled "pirate queen" Ildico Drifa continues to expand her territory and reach. While there is some concern this growing centralization of power could result in greater threats to trade and stability in the Far North, most analysts think it is quite unlikely.`
			`	Professor Grenwich Millstone, foremost authority on the economy and history of the northern pirate worlds, had this to say about Drifa:`
			`	"It is patently inconceivable that any single magnate could consolidate power on Haven. It is cultural anathema, and economically impractical. Frankly, all this talk of a so-called 'pirate queen' is just sensationalist journalism trying to sell the news. In a few weeks another pirate captain will be the new bogeyman, and then another."`
			`	The segment ends, and the news kiosk automatically scrolls down to the next article.`
				decline


mission "Skadenga: Blood of Surtr"
	landing
	source "Windblain"
	to offer
		has "Ice Queen 6: done"
		has "outfit: Blood of Surtr"
		has "Stones of Skadenga 3: offered"
	on offer
		conversation
			`As your ship descends through Windblain's cloudy atmosphere, you consider landing near Hrithfjall and asking the Ondurdis about the Blood of Surtr.`
			choice
				`	(Take the Blood of Surtr to Hrithfjall.)`
					goto hrithland
				`	(Ask about the Blood of Surtr another time.)`
					defer
				`	(Don't visit Hrithfjall at all.)`
					decline

			`	You fly past Hrithfjall without landing and continue on your way.`
				defer

			label hrithland
			`	You pass numerous new homes built of driftwood and sea-stone as you approach the old village center of Hrithfjall. There is laughter and song in the air and children running everywhere; it always seems larger every time you visit.`
			`	At the old village hall you find the Ondurdis and Aldfrith deep in conversation with a band of people who stick out beside the Skadenga and indigenous Ranfolk; these people appear to be foreigners. The Ondurdis's old eyes light up and she gives you a grandmotherly smile as you approach.`
			`	"<first>!" the Ondurdis exclaims happily. "My heart sings to see you."`
			choice
				`	"Who are they?"`
					goto who
				`	"I've come to show you something."`
					goto something
				`	"What do you know about other stones like the Tear of Skade?"`
					to display
						not "tears"
			`	"On Skade? Only Tears of Skade. But on other worlds? Maybe."`
				goto something

			label who
			`	The Ondurdis steps away from the group and takes you aside, leaving Aldfrith to continue talking with them.`
			`	"They are from Alfheim. They say their culture and world dying and they look for new home before old one gone." She pats your arm gently.`
			`	"Word spreads of Hrithfjell and in some corners of Deep old ways still remembered. So they come." Her eyes gleam, "We are like fire on glacier. All see, all come. For warmth, for happiness, for life.`
			`	"But, <first>, you have not come all this way to talk with old woman. What brings you here?"`

			label something
			action
				clear "tears"
			`	You show her the Blood of Surtr, and tell her the story of House Drifa taking it from the Deep.`
			`	The Ondurdis nods slowly. "I only know of Tears of Skade. Our Goddess cried - maybe others did as well?"`
			`	She turns and motions to Aldfrith who steps over to you. She asks, "Did Ran ever cry cold tears?"`
			
			label aldtime
			`	Aldfrith inspects the Blood of Surtr thoughtfully, and then considers the Ondurdis's words as he strokes his white beard. "The sea has no mercy, and no memory. Ran would never cry."`
			`	He chews his lip and then says slowly and carefully, "But she did leave us scales."`
			`	He nods to himself and becomes more confident. "Long ago we would find the Scales of Ran on the beaches nearest her God-Stone. The stories say that they made a bubble of breathable air around those who carried them, and allowed us to explore the secrets of her depths."`
			choice
				`	"What happened to them?"`
				`	"Where could I find them?"`

			`	Aldfrith shakes his head slowly. "In the time of my grandfather the men from the Deep came and took the Scales off world. They said they were too valuable to be left in the hands of savages, and since then we've never found another Scale of Ran. I think she was displeased we allowed them to be taken."`
			`	The old man pauses for a moment and then says, "Although... I do remember when I was a child the folk from the Deep coming and visiting us again. They had questions about... our baubles. I think they said they did not work? They thought they were just useless charms. Perhaps the Scales stopped working?"`
			`	He shrugs. "I am sorry, <first>, that I cannot tell you more."`
			`	The Ondurdis puts a hand on his back. "I value your stories." She turns her attention back to you, "Stone-magic fades when outsiders come, this is known. Maybe all God-Stones once gave such gifts, but no longer."`
			`	She points at the Blood of Surtr. "Surtr, is known, he is volcano that erupts on ice. He is black fire that swallows world. But he had no God-Stone on Nifel." She pauses and looks at Aldfrith.`
			`	"Oh, uh, and none here. Ran, like the sea, is jealous and would share no world with another." Aldfrith says quickly.`
			`	"Maybe on other world, there is Surtr God-Stone, and from it he bleeds. More than that, I do not know," she says apologetically.`
			`	You thank the Ondurdis and Aldfrith for their gracious help and interesting stories. The Ondurdis hastily prepares a small meal, believing it bad manners to let a guest leave unfed, and wishes you well in your future travels among the lofty stars.`
				decline


mission "Stone to Hope: Thanks"
	source "Norn"
	to offer
		has "Stone to Ice Queen: offered"
	on offer
		conversation
			`In the quiet, creaking spaceport, it's easy enough to spot Helm doing some much needed maintenance on the ships that have landed here for the night. The last time you met him, he asked you to bring a stone to Hope. Do you want to check in with him?`
			choice
				`	(Go to Helm and report on the stone.)`
					goto tell
				`	(Leave Helm alone.)`
					decline
			
			label tell
			`	As you say your hello you accidentally startle Helm, who's in the middle of recalibrating a repulsor.`
			`	"Woah! <first>! No need to sneak up on me!" He stands up to greet you. "What's new?"`
			choice
				`	"Is Tosti around? I found his Family-Cairn and left the stone there."`
					goto where
					to display
						has "placed tosti's stone"
				`	"It's done. I chucked the stone out of a hatch, but it's at least on Hope now."`
					goto threw
					to display
						has "chucked tosti's stone"
				`	"I threw the stone off a cliff, but it's at least on Hope now."`
					goto threw
					to display
						has "threw tosti's stone"
				`	"Where's Tosti?"`
			label where
			action
				clear "placed tosti's stone"
			`	"Ah, Tosti's out on the seas. The lad got himself a job working on a fishing trawler. It'll likely be a few years before he'll call to port here again."`
			`	Helm gives you a friendly smile. "Still, you've done him a good turn. I'll have a message passed along to him so he knows he can rest easy."`
			`	He returns to tinkering with the repulsor but continues, "There's no money or reward, but word will spread and people here will appreciate it all the same. Here on Norn we have long memories."`
				decline

			label threw
			action
				clear "threw tosti's stone"
				clear "chucked tosti's stone"
			`	Helm stops what's he doing and looks up at you searchingly. "Best keep that to yourself, then. You of all people should know that folks around here take stone-bearing pretty seriously."`
			`	He sighs, "Still, better than not being on Hope at all, I suppose. As for Tosti, he's out on the seas. Got himself a job working on a fishing trawler. It'd likely be a few years before he'll call to port here again."`
			`	He turns and looks out over Norn's endless oceans. "I'll have a message sent to him so he knows he can rest easy. I'll of course leave out the part about you tossing the stone. No reason to give him grief."`
			`	He returns to tinkering with the repulsor but continues, "There's no money or reward, but a good deed is its own reward, isn't it?`
			`	"At least that's what I believe," he says more to himself than to you.`
				decline

# For compatibility with saves that completed Stones of our Fathers 5, but didn't get the new event connected to it.
mission "Patch Stone Waiting"
	landing
	invisible
	to offer
		has "Stone of our Fathers 5: done"
		not "stone waiting most: triggered"
	on offer
		event "stone waiting most" 14
		fail



mission "A Dead Man's Path 1"
	name "Siblings to New China"
	description "Bring these siblings to New China to hear their father's last will by <date>. They have offered to pay you <payment>."
	minor
	passengers 2
	deadline 7
	source
		near "Merak" 3 6
		not attributes "station"
	destination "New China"
	to offer
		random < 20
	on offer
		conversation
			`At night, the spaceport on <origin> livens up. There are porters running to and from depots with crates, crewmen buying rounds of drinks for each other around the bars before they hit the bed, and bands of Navy officers jovially greeting captains and systematically inspecting ships. The energy and self-purpose of this spaceport is on full display tonight.`
			`	The only exception to the bustle and activity are a young man and woman, both dressed very formally, who are seemingly lost. You watch them drift from one person to another, each time being sent off without an answer. Finally, they come toward you.`
			`	Their faces show clearly that they are on their last legs of hope. It is only with reluctance that the woman says, "Excuse me, are you a spaceship captain?"`
			choice
				`	"Yes, my name's Captain <last>."`
				`	"Depends on what you want."`
					goto suspicion
			`	Her face brightens up with a smile, and she continues, "That's good to hear! My brother and I were searching for someone who could give us a ride to <destination>. We received notice that our father's last will is going to be published there on <day>. Do you think you could take us there? We can pay you for your service, of course: <payment>."`
				goto "help or not"
			label suspicion
			`	She seems a little confused. "Oh, um... my brother and I were just searching for someone who could give us a ride to <destination>. We received notice that our father's last will is going to be published there on <day>. Do you think you could take us there? We can pay you for your service, of course: <payment>.`
			label "help or not"
			choice
				`	"Of course I can."`
					goto agreed
				`	"I'm sorry, but I've got more urgent things to do. You'll need to find someone else."`
			`	Her smile fades away as you say that, but they both simply nod and walk out of the spaceport with their heads down.`
				decline
			label agreed
			`	"Fantastic! My name is Sophie, and this is my younger brother," she says, pointing at the man to her side, who goes to shake your hand.`
			`	"Hi, I'm Liam. We've been looking for a ride for some time now. We were starting to worry that we wouldn't get there in time! You'll have to bring us there quickly."`
			choice
				`	"Don't worry, you'll be surprised how fast my ship flies. We'll get there in no time."`
					goto "no time"
				`	"Yes, a lot of captains are quite busy these days."`
			`	"It seems that way," Sophie agrees. "Everyone feels more tense or uncertain. There's always more to do and less time to do it."`
				goto ship
			label "no time"
			`	Liam's voice barely hides his excitement at finding an available captain. "Well, let's see that ship of yours then, and show us if it's as fast as you say it is!"`
			label ship
			`	You lead them to your ship and help them with their bags as they board.`
				accept
	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic passenger on visit"
	on complete
		log `Helped a pair of siblings named Sophie and Liam by bringing them to New China so they can hear their father's last will.`
		conversation
			`When you arrive at <planet>'s spaceport, the siblings prepare to head off to the court where their father's last will will be read out. Just before they leave, Liam turns to you. "Captain <last>, I've transferred <payment> to your account. Would it be okay for you to wait here until we come back? We'll need a ride home. If you're able to take us, please meet us in the spaceport later."`
		payment 50000

mission "A Dead Man's Path 2"
	name "Following Footprints"
	description "Bring Sophie and Liam through <waypoints>, before finally bringing them to <destination>. They will pay you another <payment>."
	passengers 2
	source "New China"
	destination "Prime"
	waypoint "Terminus"
	waypoint "Aspidiske"
	waypoint "Gorvi"
	waypoint "Enif"
	to offer
		has "A Dead Man's Path 1: done"
	on offer
		conversation
			`After waiting two hours in the spaceport's bar, Liam and Sophie come back with unexpectedly broad smiles on their faces. You flag them down from your table and they eagerly take a seat.`
			`	Liam speaks as soon as he can. "Captain <last>, it turns out we will need a bit more than just a ride home! Have you decided to help us again?"`
			choice
				`	"What do you want me to do?"`
				`	"Tell me more before I decide."`
			`	Sophie smiles at her brother. "Of course, Liam just can't wait to get started!" She turns back to you. "Maybe I should start with who our father was. We didn't get to know him very well - he came home only occasionally. Don't get me wrong, our parents weren't fighting, but he had this passion: he couldn't stay in one place for very long. He was a captain, not unlike you, and he was restless to explore even the furthest parts of the galaxy. We believe he traveled further than most human captains; sometimes he brought small items back home that nobody could explain."`
			`	She pauses for a moment. "Anyway, his testament says he left something behind for us on <planet>, in <system>. He said that he wouldn't make it easy though; he loved fantasy books, and there's always an air of mystery to those stories. He told us of a few systems we should visit before we go to Prime. It'll be like one last fantasy story from Dad!`
			`	"Of course, it would be much easier if we could go directly to Prime, but we want to respect our father's last will." She looks directly at you now. "And that is why we need your help. Could you help us again and take us through all these systems?"`
			choice
				`	"Which systems would we have to fly through?"`
				`	"I'm sorry, but that sounds too complicated to me."`
					goto "no thanks"

			`	Liam pulls a star map out of his bag. "These are the systems our father wants us to visit: <waypoints>. Those systems are spread far out around human space, but apparently they all have something unique to them. We've never really traveled beyond our home planet, so it'll be quite a big adventure for us! We can offer 50,000 credits. Does that sound good?"`
			choice
				`	"Sounds good!"`
				`	"Sorry, I won't be able to take you. Those systems are too far away from each other."`
					goto "no thanks"
			`	"Great! We weren't expecting this trip, so we'll need to buy some supplies," Sophie says, "but as soon as you're ready we'll be on board."`
				accept

			label "no thanks"
			`	"Well, it looks like we'll need to find somebody else," Sophie says. They both thank you for bringing them this far and walk away.`
				decline

	on enter "Terminus"
		dialog `It is often thought that there's nothing interesting in these uninhabited systems by the Deep, but Sophie points out that there is a strange anomaly in this system. "When we got to see him, our father used to describe all these unusual sights he saw on his adventures flying through wormholes or nebulae. That anomaly reminds me of one of them."`
	on enter "Aspidiske"
		dialog `While Sophie and Liam are both quite chatty at times, the beauty of this star stops all their conversations.`
	on enter "Gorvi"
		dialog `Approaching the nebula surrounding Gorvi, Sophie and Liam both chatter to each other about the marvels and mysteries of the Wolf-Rayet star at its center.`
	on enter "Enif"
		dialog `If there was ever a prime example of how much the human race still has to learn, it is the strange, impressive, and yet still unfinished ringworld in this system. Liam tells you, "Our father was a very curious man, and he always talked about the Quarg and their ringworlds, and how it would be another thousand years before humanity could build anything similar. We've never seen how big it was until now!"`

	on visit
		dialog phrase "generic missing waypoint or passengers"

	on complete
		log `Brought Sophie and Liam to various locations that their departed father asked them to visit in his will; ended at Prime where he left something for them.`
		conversation
			`The siblings are uncharacteristically quiet, perhaps in anticipation of finally arriving at their destination. It is only when you have all stepped out into Prime's spaceport that Sophie says, "Captain <last>, you've helped us immensely, and we can't thank you enough for bringing us all across the galaxy! But we have one last request. Both of us think that you should come with us to see what our father left behind. Do you want to see it?"`
			choice
				`	"Now that we've come so far, sure."`
				`	"I'm sorry, I've got to be somewhere else."`
					goto "somewhere else"
			`	Liam pulls out a map - not the starmap he had before, but a local map of Prime marked 'New Toulouse'. "Apparently our father bought a whole mountain on this planet, and he wants us to go there. It's to the west of us near the New Pyrenees, a little while away from the spaceport."`
			choice
				`	"Sounds good. I'll follow your lead."`
					goto shuttle
				`	"We could also have a look around here, and see why your father chose this planet."`
			`	"You're right. I hadn't thought of that, surely there was a reason he picked here," Sophie says.`
			`	All three of you walk around the spaceport district for some time. Coming into a giant plaza, you see one of the newest models from Betelgeuse, a Behemoth, on display in the center. The massive freighter with its many turret emplacements towers over even the plaza, an obvious showcase of Prime's leading shipbuilding industry.`
			`	Liam's face brightens as if he just understood something. "I think our father chose this planet because he was always a fan of Betelgeuse ships. Before he went on his adventures he used to be a test pilot for the shipyard."`
			`	Sophie nods. "Right! And once he was allowed to keep one of their experimental models as a gift for being one of their most productive pilots. Betelgeuse almost wouldn't let him go when he wanted to leave and explore the galaxy! But we're running out of time. Shall we go to the mountain now?"`
			choice
				`	"We should take a shuttle. It'll be the fastest way."`
				`	"Let's take the maglev, we should make it before it gets dark."`
					goto maglev
			label shuttle
			`	After a short shuttlecraft flight on Prime's extensive and well-maintained shuttle service, you and the siblings arrive at a provincial city, where you can see a small mountain that stands alone against the rest of the landscape.`
				goto mountain
			label maglev
			`	You take a maglev from the spaceport and get a tour through some of the regions of Prime's mainland; on the way you pass through the fields of New Toulouse, where the majority of the local agricultural industry is located, and into the New Pyrenees hills. After an hour you and the siblings step off at a provincial city. Although Betelgeuse starts to recede behind the horizon, you can see a small mountain that stands alone against the rest of the landscape.`
			label mountain
			`	Liam, with the help of the map, guides all of you to the base of the mountain, where you come across a flat wall embedded into a small cavern in its side. "There's a phrase our father left in the instructions: 'Edr- i fen,'" he explains, a little embarrassed at his inability to pronounce it. "I don't know what it means, but I'm certain it has something to do with one of these fantasy novels he used to read."`
			choice
				`	"Sounds funny, but let's say it."`
				`	"You've got a strange dad, but I like his sense of humor."`
			`	Sophie counts to three, and then all of you shout out the phrase together.`
			`	Suddenly, a bright blue line appears on the wall. For a second, a flash blinds you and there is a dim hissing noise, like the sound of rock being cut by a laser. As you look back, the line forms into a blue rectangle, the shape rapidly expanding down the wall. When it reaches the ground, the shape has become large enough to cover a human.`
			`	For a moment, nothing happens, and the siblings are too stunned to do anything. The rectangle starts flashing between different hues of blue, until the whole section and the stone it covered disappears suddenly to leave behind a cavity in the wall. "I could have sworn the stone was real," Liam says under his breath.`
			choice
				`	"Well, this is a real adventure. Let's go!"`
					goto enter
				`	"We don't know what's inside there. Be careful."`
			`	"Well, now that you mention it, I recently bought a small camera drone," Liam responds. "We can use it to scout out the hallway. It's only in infrared, so we won't see too many details," he adds. Liam starts the drone and guides it using a small remote control with integrated display. After some time, the drone flies back out and he tells you, "I think it is safe. We can go."`
			label enter
			`	In single file, the three of you enter the hallway behind the opening. Strangely, the stone walls are perfectly smooth, and the light that guides you through seems to come out of nowhere. "To use alien technology for something like this," Sophie laughs, "that's totally our dad."`
			`	For a long while the three of you continue through the stone hallway, the light following your movements, until it opens up into a dome-shaped room brilliantly bathed in blue light. On the walls, there are all manner of alien artifacts lined up next to each other, but at the center of the room there is a pedestal with a sword inserted into it. A small tablet stands in a socket in front of it.`
			choice
				`	(Go up to the sword.)`
					goto "sword scene"
				`	(Take a look around first.)`
			`	You walk around to the right of the dome to the collection of alien objects, all steel in color and rather blocky. "Wow, he must have always brought us back the small items from his expeditions, because these artifacts over here are huge!" Liam exclaims from another part of the dome. "How did he even move all these here?"`
			`	Now that Liam points it out, many of the larger artifacts over his way look similar to the Sheragi technology you studied with Albert Foster.`
				to display
					has "Sheragi Archaeology: The Emerald Sword 3: done"
			`	After some time, Sophie calls you both to come and look at the tablet.`
			choice
				`	(Go over to Sophie.)`
			label "sword scene"
			`	A short message, written on the tablet in green ink, appears as you approach:`
			`			"My dear children. The galaxy runs far and wide, and I have traveled many places, more than most in many lifetimes. I have seen many worlds, both alien and human, too. It was my life's work.`
			`			"But still, there were many paths I did not take, many rocks I have left unturned, and many worlds I have not yet landed on. And I suspect that you will have read this before those destinations were reached. Well, I have arrived at a different destination now, the only one nobody can understand, but everybody reaches eventually. Do not fear for me.`
			`			"This room you are in now is the culmination of all my work. I hope you understand that it was for your sake that I kept these a secret. My journey was long and unforgiving, but it was my life. I hope you continue that journey, to understand the universe a little better.`
			`			"Your father."`
			`	Understanding the personal nature of the message, you leave the two alone for a bit, walking around and looking at the artifacts on the left of the dome.`
			`	After some time, the siblings call you back. Sophie says, "Captain <last>, Liam and I have thought about this, and we think that we would never be able to live up to our father's expectations if we kept this sword. We can study all these artifacts and understand more about the universe through them, but we cannot study this one. To understand its abilities, it needs to be used.`
			`	"This sword was always at our father's side, and it has been many places. Take it to many more." She pulls the sword from the pedestal, and gives it one last look before handing over it to you. "It is yours now."`
			choice
				`	"I would be more than grateful to accept it."`
					goto accepted
				`	"This is too much for me to take."`
			`	"Are you sure?" Sophie asks. "This is a one time offer. It would be wasted on us."`
			choice
				`	"Yes, I'm sure."`
					goto declined
				`	"Well, if you frame it that way, I'll take it."`
			
			label accepted
			action
				outfit "Old Man's Sword" 1
			`	You take the strange sword from Sophie. It seems abnormally light, but maybe that's because you've never held a sword before.`
				goto conclusion

			label declined
			action
				set "declined old man's sword"
			`	"I see... please, if you won't take our father's sword, take an extra payment for having to put up with us all the way up until now." She takes the sword away and inserts it back into the pedestal.`

			label conclusion
			`	"Well, we'll need some time to take it all in and arrange things, find a place to stay on Prime and all that," Sophie says, "but we won't keep you from your ship any longer. It was a pleasure to travel with you, Captain <last>."`
			`	Liam adds, "We will always be grateful for your help with our father's will. We never imagined that we would come so far, and we would have never done it without you. It means so much to us. We wish you well through the stars, Captain <last>."`

			branch "accepted sword" "extra money"
				not "declined old man's sword"

			label "accepted sword"
			action
				payment 50000
			`	After Liam hands you a credit chip for <payment>, you say goodbye to the two siblings and leave them in their father's mysterious dome.`
				decline

			label "extra money"
			action
				payment 100000
			`	After Liam hands you a few credit chips for <payment>, you say goodbye to the two siblings and leave them in their father's mysterious dome.`
				decline

			label "somewhere else"
			action
				payment 100000
			`	"Well, that's okay. We'll always appreciate the help you've given us in fulfilling our father's will. Oh, and here's your payment, and a little extra for putting up with us all this time," Liam says, handing you a few credit chips for <payment>. "We wish you well through the stars!" Again, the siblings both thank you profusely for the trip, and you watch them leave Prime's spaceport with excitement.`
				decline
