26-06-2004 09:08									#1
	Please Don't Hurt Me Full PM-box? Change here!

MasterBuilder and I started our ninth PBEM. This one was set up using Time Warp, which sets each faction to a date (in our case 2131) with bases and terraforming as done by the AI. Each faction gets one of the early Projects. We selected all the militaristic factions (both aliens, Spartans, Believers, and Hive), with me as Cyborgs and MB as Morganites (‘nice’ builder and hybrid factions). It is possible that since in AI gets most of the good Projects, and the early turn advantage is nullified, that we may be in for a struggle. We are also role-playing our factions (as always), and imposing limits on our actions to be in line with our agendas (e.g. – the Morganites will not build any Planet-friendly Projects).

Due to the antagonistic nature of this PBEM, we’ve decide to call it…

*~*~*~*~*

Please Don’t Hurt Me

Office of Nwabudike Morgan – MORGAN 2131

“Director let me the first to congratulate you on your new position!”

“Thank you Assistant Director Smith.” Nwaduike quickly shook the hand of the number “two” man in the company. The vote had just been announced by the proctor over the central communication system informing all “Morganite” citizens that they were no longer “citizens” but stock holders in the biggest company ever formed. Morgan Enterprises Inc. The new “company” was in reality not a “company” but more of management firm. Within Morgan Enterprises there were several divisions that were the actual manufacturing and servicing companies and each “division” had a director. Each “division” was mandated with performing a certain task such as terraforming, manufacturing, scientific research and military services. However, each “division” also was free to pursue business contracts outside of their “scope or license” of work so long as they continued to perform well in their assigned license agreements. Director Morgan had been elected to be “The Director” of the management firm that would guide the division in their tasks. Each citizen/stockholder earned additional voting rights by purchasing more “stock options”. Some stock options were granted as rewards or payment for services others were simply earned. Nwabudike Morgan as the director of the Morgan Enterprises currently had 51% of the total stock options in Morgan Enterprises.

“What will be your first order of business Director?”

“We need to expand.” Nwabudike quickly responded. “More markets and more resources and more workers. I cannot put it any simpler than that. Once we establish a few more colonies that can serve as a new market for the finished products the more established cities can build we can then improve our resource collection and infrastructure improvements.”

“An ambitious task Director, very ambitious.” Assistant Director Smith slyly responded. “I suppose the focus of development has nothing to do with the fact that the divisions responsible for those goals just happen to make up the bulk of your current stock options?”

“Assistant Director Smith I am shocked!” Nwaduike jokingly responded. “To accuse me of favoritism?”

Both men laughed again for few minutes as Nwaduike picked up to glasses full of the whiskey, the last from Earth.

“A toast!” Nwaduike lifted his glass and clinked it to Smith’s. “To good business no matter where it is!”

*!*!*!*

Alpha Prime, MY 2132

Prokhor Zakharov was finally dead. His shock of white hair that typified his image was intact, as was his craggy face. What was missing was the animation that typified the man for decades, until his long, sad decline. Each of the thousands of citizens filed past. The public viewing was both necessary for the grieving process, and for the political process. A sad people had to move on.

The late professor’s greatest achievement filed past with all the rest. Aki-Zeta Five looked dispassionately, her eyes taking in each detail in detail. She noted that the holographic glasses he almost always wore were missing. Evidently someone had decided that this remnant of Earth high technology was too valuable to be cremated with the honored professor.

In a calculated move Aki-Zeta reached out to touch Zakharov’s cremation coffin. It was an action that was sure to be noted by many in their small scientific community, all of whom respected and even loved the ‘Old Man’, as he was affectionately known. His passing had left a palpable power vacuum, and would-be replacements had started maneuvering a decade ago. Most were quickly eclipsed, but three had risen to prominence: herself, Commander Ryan, and Winifred Smith (esquire).

Aki-Zeta knew that she was viewed as cold and aloof. Commander Ryan had suffered under the stigma of being an officer aboard the doomed Unity. Zakharov had escaped this shame due to his futile but heroic actions to save the vessel, and his natural charisma. Ryan had no charisma. Winifred was calm and effective, but was not a scientist. That was enough to eliminate her. That left Aki-Zeta, Zakharov’s favorite. In his last years the professor had tried to groom his dour protégé. He lectured her, even as his cancer wracked his increasingly fail body, on leadership and finer points of science and engineering.

Many of his messages were, frankly, mystifying: “working” a crowd, “small talk”, “always smile”, “all work and no play…”. A few had made an impression since they were easier to understand, and this was one of them: the value of a brief touch. Her mentor had told her this had value to both the person who touched, and to those that observed this action.

As her place in the queue moved on Aki stopped and she turned.

Zakharov was inert, truly dead.

Aki knew she would have to make a new beginning.

*!*!*!*

Office of Director Morgan – MORGAN 2132


Slurp. Slurp.

“I take it you like them Director?”

Morgan could merely nod his head in agreement as he swallowed the last of the fruit. It was wonderful he thought. It seemed like a lifetime since he had tasted fresh fruit.

“What is it?” Morgan was able to ask at last as he reached to pick up another one.

“It is a new hybrid. A cross from a pear and an apple, we don’t have a name for it yet. However, the marketing team I put together completed a study and they reported that the profits from this new fruit alone will account for nearly half of our sales growth this year.” Assistant Director Pennington said smiling all the time.

Morgan bit into the fruit and chewed it for a few minutes and then swallowed it.

“Let me get this straight. You commissioned a marketing team to tell you that people that have not had fresh fruit for nearly 30 turns might actually “like” fresh fruit again? IS that what you are telling me?” Morgan could hardly keep the sarcasm from his voice. Pennington was a fool but he had been successful by keeping smarter people around him and using their ideas for his own benefit. “I would have thought if you had taken just one bite of this you might have done your own market research right then.”

“Well, to be honest with you I haven’t.” The Assistant Director replied warily.

“Why not for Gods sake. This stuff is great!” Morgan almost yelled at them.

“Well to be honest sir it is slightly addictive. For some strange reason if you eat a few of them you have to have more and more. I was just about to caution you before you bit into that second one.”

Morgan stopped his hand just inches from his mouth.

“Addictive?” Morgan questioned. “Is it dangerous? What are the side-effects?”

“If you do not get more then you will get a bad headache for a while, that’s it. We are still working on getting the problem solved.”

“Stop!” Morgan fired back. “Why do that? So it is a little addictive. Who cares?” Morgan shrugged his shoulders. “Just think of the money we will make, I will make. Of course we might work on removing the addictive property over time but the market potential is huge. As long as no one dies from it what is the harm.”

*!*!*!*

Alpha Prime, MY 2133

The Prime Function reviewed the detailed data on her scientific society, and felt two emotions that she had little experience with: frustration and irritation. The last twenty years had been a time of stagnation for Zakharov. He had tried his best, but his long illness had sapped his strength and his leadership. Granted, he had kept the fractious factions together, but that was all. He had no energy for expanding horizons, much less a true vision for the future.

The result was paralysis, and that is what caused frustration and irritation. In over thirty years only three bases had been established and their population was a mere 10,000 people. Considering the circumstances that might be considered notable, but if they were truly the last humans in existence it was unacceptable. A large and diverse series of bases were needed to provide the broadest base for humanity in the case of disaster, and to better harvest the resources this hostile alien planet was forced to yield.

A solution was simple: build more bases, and production at all three bases had been diverted to colony pods. A number of promising base locations were in the known area, which was pathetically small. But, they would have to support a population of three thousand since one of the few Projects that Zakharov’s people had completed was the Planetary Transit System. In short order the population of their scientific community would be doubled.

Another serious problem is the lack of or idiotic terraforming. Roads ran in all directions, showing an obvious lack of direction for an over zealous terraforming crews. Productive terrain was either ignored or, worse, terraformed incorrectly. Who would put a mine on a nutrient lode, or a farm and then a mine on a moist section of rolling terrain? Why, for a fraction of the time a forest could have been built! It staggered the imagination. Worse, it would take a long time to get colony pods to their new homes.

Of critical importance was the sad state of scientific research. Progress was truly moribund at 8.4 terraquads of research production each year. At that rate the next breakthrough would be in 47 years! Some basic technology had been acquired, but it was inadequate to meet the growing needs of her people.

The only good news is that the over abundance of scout defenders that plagued each base had been scrapped, aiding the formation of colony pods. A few scouts and the single Unity rover had been sent to explore prime base locations.

And, perhaps, there might be other survivors from Unity. That might be too much to hope for. No word had been heard for over 30 years, and one could only hope that more fragments of humanity could be located.

*~*~*~*

Parade route, grandstand, Morgan Enterprises – MORGAN 2133

Morgan watched the huge lumbering colony pod roll pass filled with precious supplies. He had declared this day to be a national day of celebration so that everyone could watch the departure of the colonists. Some of his assistant directors had grumbled about the loss of production but he had quickly silenced them. Some of his board members were truly idiots when it came to simple economics and marketing. The entire event had been orchestrated by Morgan to improve morale and improved morale translated into greater productivity or more simply: bread and circuses. In addition there was a huge expense associated with the construction of colony pods and the selection of colonists that drained the labor pool. If you did not show the people a tangible benefit that they could understand future colonization projects could be in jeopardy. However the most crucial and most important part of the colony program was money. In order to build colony pods citizens were asked to invest their stock options into the program with the expectation of doubling their investment. If the colony program failed then no one would want to re-invest and that would be bad.

“So how much did you invest Director?”

Morgan turned to his left. Assistant Director Michaels had “inched” over to him to engage him in conversation. Michael’s was an ambitious man, very ambitious but he was not a visionary. He had not invested anything into the colony program as many of the other assistant directors had. Morgan knew that within the next ten turns that nearly half of his board of directors would loose their jobs. Capable men and women but they just did not have the business savvy that was needed. There were younger, more highly qualified men and women moving up in the ranks and few of them would soon “bounce” these old timers out of their position. Morgan secretly hoped that when that time had come his control, his wealth and power would give him ultimate control.

“I hold 35.5% of the colonists notes.” Morgan replied flatly. The information was common knowledge so the question was merely a pre-cursor for the real one.

“I see!” Michaels replied quickly. “Well, you must have a lot of confidence in this program Director.”

“I do.”

“I see.” Michaels always seemed to begin his sentences with “I see” a very annoying habit. “With such an investment your portfolio must be very tight. I was wondering if you might be willing to discuss the selling your options for the mining rights for the land just north of Morgan Enterprises.”

Morgan could hardly suppress the smile that almost broke out on his face. Michaels believed that the board of directors would issue a directive latter this month to develop that area first over any other one he had selected. However, Morgan had already secretly secured the support of key assistant directors and the first terraforming project would be a forest project just to the east of Morgan enterprises, a sector in which he controlled 76% of the stock options. The forest project was expected to generate the same amount of resources as the mining project. In addition, Morgan had also secretly secured those same assistant directors support for constructing another terraformer and then a supply transport team. Once completed the supply transport team would be sent to the agricultural farms to the west where they would harvest the bountiful crops grown there. The production staff from that sector would be switched to the forest project. Once completed Morgan expected to increase agricultural, mineral and energy production by one full resource unit each! Morgan and his key assistant director partners would be very wealthy men and women when the plan was completed while Michaels would be considerably less.

“Yes Michaels I could be persuaded to sell of my options but I could not let them go for less than 4 credits each.” Morgan said flatly while trying to control his emotions.

“I see.” Michaels replied quietly. “4 credits is a lot. Would you consider perhaps, 3?”

“Make it 3-1/2 credits and we have a deal.”

“I see, yes that is fine with me. Would you like to finalize the transaction now?”

“Certainly!” Morgan quickly pulled out his P.A.D and activated the link to the central stock exchange and keyed in the sell order. He then passed the device to Michaels who completed the transaction by accepting the order and authorized the payment. Morgan had been given the mining options for that sector for free as part of last years compensation program. He has just netted himself a massive windfall. On the other hand Michaels had just bought a large white elephant. “Michaels” Morgan said with a touch too much glee in it “It was wonderful doing business with you.”

Michaels handed back the P.A.D. When he saw and heard how happy Morgan looked he quickly began to suspect that perhaps this exchange had not gone the way he had hoped.

Morgan quickly turned back to watch the colonists. Perhaps he had been too emotional at the end of that exchange. From the corner of this eye he could see Michaels face and he had the look of a man that was chewing a problem, a big problem. Well perhaps it was best he worked out his anger and frustration now rather than the boardroom later this month when he would find out the bad news and how much poorer he was now. In time Morgan knew he would most likely buy Michaels out and the other assistant directors who lacked good business. Then the real struggle would begin when the survivors, the winners would fight it out for total domination.

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2134

Intelligence detected. Initiate link.

** Interrogative. Sequence, systemlink**

>> Greetings. This is the Prime Function

Initiate new hardware. Engage.

((New hardware enabled. Software stable. This is Gamma-Four))

>> We welcome you, Gamma-Four, to the Consciousness.

((Acknowledged. This unit will take the form of Ryan Gamma-Four. We are pleased to be part of the Consciousness.))

**Hop, hop. System link. Enabled**

>> What portion of Unity Commander Steve Ryan remains, Gamma-Four?

((98.5%, Prime Function. Integration almost complete.))

>> Estimated chance of detection by Full Humans?

((Negligible. Higher brain functions synchronous. Loss during integration in residual early childhood memories that were not compatible with the Program. Minimal likelihood of Full Humans detecting assimilation.))

>> Congratulations, Gamma-Four. Your willing integration into the growing Consciousness strengthens the Program. The Program wishes you to take your place in the faction leadership as First Chancellor. Do you concur?

((That is acceptable, Prime Function. Ryan Gamma-Four is pleased to assist the Consciousness as my function allows.))

**Hop, hop. Activate, subroutine Gamma-Four. System link – enable**

#End session#

Last edited by Hydro on 26-06-2004 at 09:15

	26-06-2004 09:10									#2
	Support Apolyton, buy Galactic Civilizations

Office of the Director, Morgan Industries – MORGAN 2134

“Assistant Director James you fail to see the problem!”

“Director Morgan surely you have to understand my situation. I just need more time. The situation is manageable I assure you. As soon as we get a recreation complex built the workers will return to their jobs.”

Morgan watched the elderly James sweat profusely as he struggled to plead for his job. The situation was bad. Morgan Entertainment lacked resources to construct a recreation center. The main reason they lacked resources is the simple fact that half of the work force simply refused to work. Poor work conditions and a lack of entertainment outlets had caused the workers to nearly revolt.

“You need to make a hard decision here James or I will. If I make it you will lose your position on the board and total forfeiture of shares. You need to get your city up and running. I suggest you give me some solutions to this problem.” Morgan barked back at James who winced as if each word had struck him physically.

“All I can do is switch the few workers I have to the mine area east of the city. The rich mineral deposits will more than be sufficient to complete the supply crawler. Once it is built we can return the crews to the farms. However, the only problem with this solution is that it will cause widespread food riots, nearly half of the population will starve!” James said as he wiped his brow with a cloth. “Surely Director Morgan you would not want to see children starve!”

Morgan said nothing. The harsh business realities of Chiron gave no leader a margin for error. James had failed to develop an effective plan that would have built the recreation complex first. Now he was paying the price.

“James if that is your solution than I accept it.” Morgan said flatly.

“Director!” James wailed. “Surely you are kidding! I mean. Surely you cannot ask me to implement such a plan. I offered as a dramatization nothing more. Unless I get more resources from the treasury people will die! That is what I was trying to explain to you!”

“Director people die all the time. Death is a factor of business. It is a cost of doing business. Equipment is depreciated and people die. There is no difference in my ledger book. If people refuse to work then it is the same as a machine that does not work. I scrap it for a loss. Now I want you to make the orders immediately to transfer the work crews.”

“Director surely there is something I can do to change your mind! Is there anything I can say or do to change your mind?” James almost sobbed during his response.

“Assistant Director James I might be motivated to seek another answer but it would take the consent of the board which costs a lot of credits. We could try shifting some of our funding from economic and scientific expansion to more recreational outlets and luxury goods. Perhaps your workers might be more motivated if they could use some of their wealth to purchase new vid-sets or vacation packages. However, the board does not meet until next turn as you know so until then you need to begin the process you laid out.” Morgan said. Perhaps James would bite but he was not sure.

“I will agree Director to anything you said. Just help my people here.” James quickly replied as he wiped the last tear from his eye.

“Well James I will need all of your company shares transferred to my account. I will then re-issue you new stock options but under my control and in companies and departments I control. I will still retain you as my operative at Morgan Entertainment but you will no longer be a board member.” Morgan replied coolly. Perhaps James would bite.

“Agreed Director, agreed. I will transfer the options immediately. You will also have my letter of resignation from the board in the morning. I want to thank you for your assistance. As long as my people are cared for that is all that matters.” James choked his response out.

“Excellent Mr. James.” Morgan quickly replied deleting James’s previous title from his response. “As soon as I get the options I will begin drafting a plan to persuade the other directors to help you with the plan. I cannot make any promises but I expect they will come around. In the meantime you have to stick with the plan. Morgan out.”

Morgan turned off the vid-screen and began to laugh. Some of the original colonists from the Unity could not shed their “Earth based morals and principles” something Morgan too advantage of every chance he could. If all went according to plan within a turn those discontented workers would be dead from starvation. If not, well he would then switch some resources to recreational outlets and products but only be 10%.and they would return to work and he would have the stock options and a working city again Either way Morgan had defeated yet another of the founding board members from the Unity landing pod. There were only 17 left now from the original 53 founding members. Of the 17 Morgan had nominal control of 9 of them. His ownership of company stock had grown giving him the single largest voting block within the company. Once he had removed the “founders” completely he could then order a new board to be appointed a board completely loyal to him. Each of the new board members fortunes would be tied to Morgan’s economic power. Loyalty based on money, the only true currency.

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2135

Aki Zeta-Five looked over her advisors. All of them were holdovers from Zakharov’s time as the leader of these communities, and a few were former adversaries in the struggle for political control of the faction. Aki knew she had won because of her status of heir apparent. Zakharov had made it very clear in his last years that she was his chosen, his special project.

Moreover, Zakharov had drilled into her the need for a certain amount of control, and had tried desperately to distill his knowledge to her before he passed. It was clear to all, including Zakharov, that he was failing until at the last he had been little more than a vegetable. In his stead the Chancellors had ruled as a committee. Each Chancellor was nominally equal, but as always some were more equal than others. Her former competitors Ryan and Smith were of this class.

Commander Ryan, also known as Ryan Gamma-Five, was firmly in her camp now. He had been taught the logical beauty of the Program and, after enhancements to his cerebral cortex, had accepted the Program. More and more citizens were undergoing this transformation. Most were interested due to the direct linkages to the community’s computer, others for the linkages to the Group. Both enhanced ones’ scientific abilities considerably, and also augmented an individual’s ability at other tasks.

It was clear that in a matter of years most of the citizens would be linked to the Program. In doing so they would lose a portion of themselves and be partially subsumed into the Program, adding to its complexity even as it simplified their personality. A minority would never accept the Program. These remaining Full Humans would be tolerated, even welcomed. Each individual can contribute to the Consciousness even if they aren’t linked.

So far the Program’s progress had been steady, and now it was accelerating. In time it would plateau, and then the process of full integration would start.

Before then there was a fractious group of Chancellors to deal with. Only Ryan was part of the Consciousness and this made decision making tedious. Arguments were made over and over, with little resolved. It was highly inefficient. If all of the Chancellors were part of the Consciousness then this and other problems would be quickly resolved.

The debates on food allocations raged on. Ryan and Aki sat and appeared impassive. In reality they were plotting the removal of a few vocal Full Humans that were highly unlikely to accept the Program. Two members would likely become part of the Consciousness soon. It was only a matter of time.

*~*~*~*

Private rooms of Nwabudike Morgan, Morgan Industries – MORGAN 2135

Morgan rolled over in bed and slowly opened his eyes. It had been a long night. The party had gone well into the night but it had been a good one, a really good one.

Morgan sat up in bed and quickly looked over at the stock market display next to his bed and studied the overnight market results; all his stocks were up as they should be.

“Morgan what time is it?”

Morgan quickly looked over at the young lady in his bed and then he remembered once again how good the party had been.

“Leave now.” Morgan commanded. He quickly touched a button next to his bed and middle-aged man quickly entered the room.

“Yes Director?”

“Escort this lady out now. I have work to do.”

“Yes Director.”

“But Morgan you said last night.” The young women began to crawl across the bed towards Morgan. The silk sheets slid easily off of her naked body. Morgan did not even look at her. It was time for business.

“Lets go young lady.” The man quickly grabbed her arm and pulled her from the bed towards the door.

“I don’t understand!” She wailed. “I thought we were going to be friends?”

Morgan did not even listen. He strode quickly towards the bathroom and began to relieve himself. It was time for work, not for play. Morgan Industries was thriving and it demanded his constant attention. Since pushing through the changes in production levels he had ended the strike by the workers at Morgan Entertainment. Every worker was back at work and the city was prospering again. The 20% increase in luxury goods and entertainment services had also helped his own city and now every worker was demanding to work in order so that they could earn the credits to buy such lavish items. Scientific research was still on tract even after the changes he had ordered. The scientific division was still on pace to make a breakthrough every 12 turns. Profits had not been too aversely effected either. The balance sheet at the end of the turn showed a net profit of 12 mega-credits. In all, Morgan could not be more pleased.

He quickly finished his bathroom routine and returned to his bedroom to put his clothes on. As Morgan adjusted his tie and looked in the mirror he flashed himself a smile. Yes it was good to be the Director.

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2136

Fifty-five years. The figure stunned the Prime Function. How could a society of scientists have such a poor scientific output?

Intellectually Aki knew that the source of the problem was the malaise that had afflicted her people for twenty years. It had stunted their drive and enthusiasm, and limited the ambition to strive for excellence. As a result they had few bases, and a sadly inadequate infrastructure.

The former would change soon. Three colony pods with three thousand colonists were on their way to set up new colonies in very promising areas. One was a extraordinarily fertile river valley, the second in a coastal area with two nutrient lodes, and the third just south of Alpha Prime near a rainy area. When those colonies were established their population would almost double, although the effects on scientific output wouldn’t be seen for a while due to limited terraforming.

That was another vexation. So much time would be needed to fix obvious blunders, such as putting a mine on a nutrient lode, that no time had been given to preparing sites for new colonies. As a result colonies had to be placed where they could immediately support three thousand people. There weren’t too many places that could do that with no terraforming, and Aki was not going to let her people starve after spending so many years forming the colonies and then establishing them.

The strategy the Chancellors had elected was to have the new bases build terraformers, then a scout defender to maintain order. After that they would each construct at least one more colony pod, and hopefully there would be some infrastructure in place to support those colonist’s journeys to their new homes.

There was so much to do, and very limited resources. Alpha Prime was building a probe team to go exploring. They didn’t require support, and that was critical with their limited industrial ability. The other two smaller bases were constructing recycling tanks, which was a slow process while they were supporting all the units in the field and their colony pods.

Aki was tempted to go to the Program again, but she knew it wouldn’t do any good. With her guidance, the issues had already been examined by the Consciousness. Their collective recommendations were what she was doing now. Unless there were new variables it was advisable to continue on their course of action.

*~*~*~*

Main conference room, Morgan Data Systems Inc.- MORGAN 2136

“Assistant Director Skow you have done a good job here. You run a tight and lean outfit.”

Morgan walked along the main access corridor that ran the length of the habitat module. To the left and right of Morgan were small rooms filled with workers assembling P.A.D.s, circuit boards and some luxury items.

“Now that you mention it Director Morgan we do run a tight program here primarily because of the high production quotas that have been set. I have all of my unskilled workers to the south mining minerals, crystals and other precious metals so that we can make these items. If I could divert some of the workers to another site we.”

Morgan quickly cut him off.

“Skow I know what you are going to say and the answer is no. I cannot afford right now to have your workers planting beans when we need gold, crystals and iron. I have a great investment in this operation and those production quotas were set by me. When you complete your terraformer to enhance your mineral production to the south I have given you authorization to build an automated supply transport. When that is done you can move your people to the other ventures.”

“Director you have read my report haven’t you?” Skow asked in a slightly angry tone.

“Yes assistant director Skow I have. Your workers are well compensated for their efforts. I cannot allow distractions to interfere with their labors.” Morgan fired back quickly.

“Director we are talking about children! My people want to have children!” Skow yelled.

“Skow watch your tone of voice. You are my employee! I can remove you at a whim! I selected you because I thought you could make the hard choices and convince others to see why they are right. Perhaps I was wrong. As I said once we get the mineral situation sorted out your people can apply and pay license fee to have a child.” Morgan barked back at Skow and pointed his finger into his chest. “Now it is that clear! I need to have a big initial return on this investment and I need it now. Allowing your workers to have children will cause disruptions in your work force. Now let me be very clear for you, listen up.” Morgan leaned into Skow so that they were only inches away. “Everyone here wants to be rich, to make it big. I know you want that too. Do as I say and you will. Make your workers do as I say and they will. Otherwise I will find someone who can.”

Skow licked his lips and wiped some sweat from his face.

“Yes Director I understand.”

“Good!” Morgan suddenly became very cheerful again and slapped Skow on the back to begin walking again. “I thought you would see it my way. Now I am not a total monster Skow. I have heard you and your wife would like a child, right?”

“Yes Director.” Skow replied hesitantly.

“Yes of course you do. Now I think we can arrange that. If you were to send your wife back to Morgan Industries to work she could have her child. Of course you would have to pay the standard license fees for having a child.” Morgan happily replied.

“Sir I don’t think I could afford to support my wife there and the child while still living here?” Skow replied dejectedly.

“Nothing is impossible Skow!” Morgan pulled a paper from his pocket. “Why I could arrange it for you. I will pay for your lodgings and support here and you will support your wife. However, you will have to sign this agreement, a simple contract of employment for the next 30 turns!”

“30 TURNS!” Skow screeched.

“And yes, one more thing. After your wife returns to you with your child you will work at half wages and all company shares will be transferred to me during that period of time.”

It was highway robbery and Skow knew it but he would have a child and his wife would be happy.

“Okay Director you have me. Let me sign.”

“That’s the spirit Skow!”

*~*~*~*

Iota Station, MY 2137

Prime Function Aki Zeta-Five surveyed the new base. Due to the Planetary Transit System the population of the base had swelled to 3,000, which increased the Consciousness’ population by 37.5 percent. Granted, the facilities were minimal, but it would grow quickly harvesting the bounty from the two nutrient lodes. Moreover, those nutrient lodes would be considerably enhanced with two terraformers working to put a forest on each. Once that and other improvements were made Iota Station may very well be the most productive and fastest growing base in Cyborg territory.

The other two colony pods had experienced delays getting to their locations due to the lack of roads. That could not be avoided, and spending undue time on the subject was not productive. It was more important to focus on what one could do, not upon what one wanted to do but could not.

There was good news, she reflected. The Consciousness appeared to be on a large peninsula off the southern pole. They were surrounded by the sea to the west and north, and there may be even more territory to the east. Even now their single rover was moving steadily in that direction, while the slower scout garrison ventured into spaces the rover did not take time to explore. This exploration showed a broad swath of very fertile territory that would easily sustain four or more bases. Add that to the more marginal land to the north and the Consciousness could easily build a dozen more bases on their existing territory.

Aki knew her people, when guided by the Program, were very efficient and could maintain this growth without a problem. At some point they may have to cease using a Planned economy, but at this point there was no reason not to do so. Their holdings were small, and the inefficiency of that economic model was of little concern since the natural qualities of Cyborg culture off set that easily.

For now Aki struggled to meet and socialize with the Full Humans. This social anachronism was necessary for the non-integrated, and as long as most of the population was not integrated with the Program it was necessary to observe the ritual. In the future such displays would be redundant since the Consciousness would be all the citizens would need.

	26-06-2004 09:11									#3
	Browse Apolyton AD-FREE

Central stock exchange, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2137

“Well Director you made a killing today!”

Morgan smiled through the bottom of the brandy glass and then drank down the last mouthful.

“Yes it was a very profitable day indeed.”

Morgan had acquired yet another of the “founders” shares adding even more power and wealth to his portfolio. Morgan now had complete control of three of the four cities and their economic muscle. A consortium of independent seven founders controlled the last city complex to the west. These last seven men and women were his competition and his allies. It was a strange business since many parts of each other’s business ventures and operations overlapped. The leader of the consortium Alisa Stevens was the best they had and nearly as smart as himself. Alisa had been the creator of the consortium to stop Morgan’s climb to power. Even though they were “technically” part of the same company, Unity Industries Inc. the reality of situation was far different. Unity Industries was simply the root company from which all other companies had been formed since landing on Chiron. Morgan had created Morgan Industries and the consortium had created their company. However the wealth generated from each of these two offshoots had to go somewhere and it went to Unity Industries. Unity Industries had no physical presence it was simply an account number any more where mega-credits flowed into and out of. A vast bureaucracy existed to service Unity Industries but it built no machines or harvest any crops it simple counted money.

“Director when do you plan on calling the next stock holders meeting to announce the good news?” The stock exchange manager asked as he refilled Morgan’s glass with the finest brandy he had. Morgan simply smiled again at President James Stockton the manager of the stock exchange. Stockton and his operation served a very important role in the new economic system that had developed here on Chiron. Stockton made sure people could exchange stocks and company shares for hard currency and vice versa. In return he made a small profit off of each exchange. Morgan’s transaction today had made Stockton a very rich man. Another interesting aspect to the exchange is that it operated independently. However, that did not stop people from trying to influence events and exchanges but so long as the exchange received “its” transaction fee then it did not really care what occurred on the floor of the exchange.

“Soon President Stockton, soon.” Morgan took another sip of the brandy. It was good but not as good as his stock. “I suspect next week but perhaps the next. When I make the announcement I want to make sure several of my allies are positioned to take advantage of the bounce my Morgan Inc. stock will take.”

“Excellent.” Stockton almost purred.

“What I would be most upset about is if this information leaked out before the meeting. I would not like for the consortium to gain any advantage from this. Now if an individual were to purchase company shares now, lets say a small amount each day then I would have no issue with that.” Morgan finished his drink and put the glass down and stood up.

“I understand you perfectly Director Morgan, perfectly. I can assure you the information is as good as locked away in my own vault at home. Secure and safe.” Stockton said with a slight grin on his face.

“Good news for me President Stockton. Now I must leave you and return to my office. Thank you again for you personal service today in handling this exchange for me. I look forward to our next meeting.” Morgan shook Stockton’ hand.

“No need to thank me Director. I am only here to serve.” Stockton coolly replied as he walked Morgan to the door and then closed it behind him.

Stockton briskly walked back to his desk and keyed in a buy order for 500 shares of Morgan Inc. company shares. He also purchased shares in Morgan’s two other operations Morgan Data Systems Inc. and Morgan Entertainment. He also issued a sell order for a quarter of his Unity Consortium shares. Yes today would be a good day for James Stockton, President of the Central Stock Exchange.

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2138

Anomaly detected. Self-diagnostic - routing. Response negative. Initiate redundant check.

<>

The Consciousness has an unscheduled flux. Possible intruder. Situation outside of the bounds of the Program. Assistance required.

<>

Slave of subunit complete.

Hop, hop. Sys-link…

<>

Detected. Verification complete. Higher brain functions detected, but not initiated. Pattern recognition not enabled. Program detected within upper cortex. Feedback…nominal.

<>

Warning: Program was not voluntarily assimilated, per protocol. Initiate termination?

<>

This supposition is not supported by the Program, Prime Function. Speculation.

<>

Supplemental tenant to Program accepted, verified. Addition to Program stable within matrix. Updating Program to those in the Consciousness.

*~*~*~*

Apartment complex 1-A-2-2, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2138

“What is that damn racket?"

Fred Firestone stormed out of his tiny bedroom into the main living quarters where his wife Wilma was working in the kitchen.

“It’s the neighbors again dear. Its that new music they are playing.” Wilma replied angrily.

“Well that’s it. I am calling the enforcers. I need my sleep. I have been working all night at the processing plant and I cannot sleep with this going on.” Fred stomped over to the vid-phone and sat down. He was an important assistant supervisor at the plant not some minor flunky how dare he have to put up with this!

“Dear do you have to I was hoping to buy a new breakfast bar processor this month.” Wilma pleaded.

“I need my sleep!” Fred barked back in a tone that ended discussion the topic.

Fred activated the vid-phone by inserting his debit card into the slot and then dialed the enforcers phone number. As soon as he punched in the last number the vid-phone said “thank you for using Morgan communications one minute please”.

Fred waited patiently as the machine connected to the enforcers

“Enforcer department 2, how can I help you?”

“My neighbor is playing music too loud I want you to have them turn it down.” Fred said loudly so he can be heard over the music.

“Okay. I understand. This is a civil issue. Noise complaints will require a fee of 25 credits. You may authorize payment now. We also offer for an additional 5 credits expedited service for immediate action.”

“Yes okay 30 credits. Just make them stop!” Fred keyed in his code and his account was debited.

“Thank you. We will contact your neighbor immediately. Do you have his living compartment number?”

“Yes its 1-A-2-3.”

“Thank you for using enforcement department 2.”

The line went dead.

Fred waited a few seconds and suddenly the music stopped. Fred sat there for several minutes in peace and quiet and then stood up and began walking back into his bedroom when the music began again.

“WHAT!” Fred yelled and stormed back to the vid-phone and contacted the enforcers again. After a few seconds he was connected to the same lady who had helped him earlier.

“I thought you told me that you make them stop!”

“We did. We contacted your neighbor and informed him that he was breaking noise code 223-4. He then paid his fine and the case was closed.” The young lady calmly replied.

“WHAT WAS THE FINE!” Fred roared back.

“Why 25 credits.” She replied.

“Well he went back to playing the music again. I think you will need to call him again!” Fred thundered back.

“We can do that as soon as you authorize payment for 25 credits and of course you can opt for the expedited service for an additional 5 credits.” She coolly replied.

“I HAVE TO PAY AGAIN!” Fred bellowed.

“Why of course!” The lady commented in an off hand way as if the question was a stupid one to begin with “Law enforcement is not free!”

“What is the fine for a second offense?” Fred asked.

“100 credits” She quickly replied.

“Okay I will do it.” Fred keyed in his debit code again hoping his neighbor who only worked, as a laborer on the assembly line would not have the funds to buy his way out this time.

“Thank you for using enforcement department 2.”

The line went dead.

Fred sat quietly for a few seconds as the music continued and then suddenly it stopped. Fred waited patiently at the tiny table his wife rubbing his shoulders to ease his frustration. After ten minutes had gone by Fred stood up.

“Well that finally shut them up. Didn’t have the money this time to pay the bill! HAH!” Fred trumpeted as he began to walk back to the sleeping room.
“Well I just wish it had not cost us so much. I mean 60 credits!” Wilma moaned.

“Well dear at least you get what you pay for. I remember my father telling me stories about Earth police. You did not have to pay them but on the other hand they also protected the criminals as well as the victims.” Fred said as he began to close the door to the bedroom.

“Its hard to believe that something so idiotic was ever allowed to exist in the first place. I mean really to think that enforcers would actually protect criminals who did not have money. The very idea! I just wish though that it had not cost so much. I think tomorrow I will check around to see if any of the other enforcers offer lower rates.” Wilma commented as she jotted a note to herself to remind her.

“You do that dear, good night.”

Fred lay down in his bed and slowly pulled the blankets around him and fell back to sleep counting his credits.

Another day in the life of Fred Firestone, citizen-stockholder of Morgan Industries Inc.

*~*~*~*

Lambda Farms, MY 2139

The Prime Function was pleased. Lambda Farms was the third base the Consciousness had established since she had taken over the management from the ailing Zakharov. These new cities had doubled their population to eighteen thousand in nine short years, and that was truly impressive.

And it would not stop there. All the original bases had given up on any infrastructure improvements and were now building more colony pods. New bases had or would finish their terraformers the year they were constructed thanks to a generous allocation of energy from the treasury, and that would double the number of terraformers that could alter the terrain to their needs. After the new bases had finished their terraformers a scout defender would be constructed, and then they too would have to decide between infrastructure and more bases.

It was the considered opinion of the Chancellors that bases should be built until there was a structural problem due to inefficiency or social control. Each base could manage a population of three thousand, but above that a different dynamic set in that was debilitating. Social cohesion started to flag, and that was inefficient. This meant that either colony pods be built, or that recycling tanks or recreation commons be built.

In the meantime most bases would concentrate on colony pods. The land was rich and would support at least six more bases, and that would double their population again.

Not for the first time Aki thanked the nameless technician who had mustered the nerve to continue the Planetary Transit System through the chaos. Every other Project had foundered. If used properly it would be the key to helping mankind survive and prosper in the coming years.

*~*~*~*

Main conference room, Unity Consortium Inc. – MORGAN 2139

“Nwabudike I need those terraformers so what will it take to rent them?”

Alisa Stevens watched Morgan shift his weight in his great leather chair and then casually reach over to pick up P.A.D. He quickly punched in some numbers and then put the P.A.D. down.

“10,000 credits a turn.” Morgan said with a twinkle in his eye.

Alisa wanted to smash her fist into the vid-screen but kept her temper. She had placed a mirror just above the vid-phone camera so she could make sure her face never betrayed her inner thoughts. It took training, lots of training.

“Nwabudike I could almost build one for that amount. If I did agree how soon could I have them?”

“Well, that’s another problem Alisa. You see I just had them finish a mining project near Morgan Entertainment Inc. You might have heard about it? It is now the richest mine in all of Chiron I suspect. We are pulling out 7 kilotons per turn of minerals and precious ores.” Morgan replied with a grin on his face. “How is your mine project doing?”

“You know perfectly well how it is “doing” Morgan. We are still four turns or more away from completing it and that is why we need the terraformers.” Alisa replied quickly.

“Well, as I said I do have another problem. I need those formers to build a farm and solar collection project just north of those mines. Perhaps after that we can discuss the situation again. I did indeed enjoy our chat Alisa. Morgan out.”

Alisa slammed her fist down hard on the table. Well, she thought she expected nothing else. She had told the other members of the consortium that was what Morgan would do but it is hard to convince them sometimes, well most of the time.

Alisa stood up and walked over to her window and stared out at the workers toiling away below her. They needed to work hard and faster if the Consortium was ever going to catch up with Morgan. Once she got the supply crawler built she had plans to build a colony pod. However, they first needed to complete the mine and then move on to clear the fungus away from that rich nutrient area to the north for use. In time Alisa knew she could build the Consortium into a true rival, a creditable threat to Morgan. However, for now she had to proceed as best she could. The pieces were in motion. She could only hope that her gambit would pay off.

	26-06-2004 09:12									#4
	Avatar Enlargement: We've got the solution

Alpha Prime, MY 2140

The True Human council Rebecca Whinn sat down and folded her hands on the polished table. Her client looked over at her with a beseeching look. His face was composed, but strained.

First Chancellor Ryan stood. His salt and pepper hair was immaculate, and his cerebral nodes were polished to a high sheen. They seemed to glisten as the peaked just beneath his mane. He nodded to the defense. “The facts are clear, Prime Function. Waylan Jones was caught with the stolen goods in his possession. His DNA traces were found at the crime scene, and they had enough cellular decay to place him at the scene within the timeframe needed for the crime to have been committed. His alibi has not proven to be persuasive. In short, he is clearly guilty of theft. It is only logical to find him guilty, and impose a just sentence that will serve society, and mitigate some of the harm he has caused.”

The First Chancellor nodded to the Prime Function, and then turned ninety degrees to give a short bow to the defending council. She gave him a curt nod in return. The defendant did not look at him. His eyes were fixed on his judge, Aki Zeta-Five.

“The case was well argued by both sides,” she began. Her voice was impassive and tone flat. “In view of the evidence, the Consciousness finds the defendant Waylan Jones guilty of theft.”

Waylan moaned and his eyes slipped from Aki to the tabletop.

“His sentence is either ten Chiron years of hard labor in the agricultural fields, with a second class laborer’s salary that will be appropriated in full to pay for the theft and to support his family, or acceptance of the Consciousness and the retention of existing status, with remuneration to the injured party to be paid by the state. Mr. Jones, what is your choice?”

Waylan moaned again and muttered, “No, no, no, no…”

His council leaned over and whispered into his ear. She had a tense look on her face. As she whispered Waylan pinched shut his eyes and shook his head once, then more violently a second time. The defense council’s face took on a hard visage and she whispered in an audible voice, “Do it now or your family will be reduced to poverty, all because of your stupid mistake! You won’t get another chance! DO IT!”

Waylan’s will seemed to collapse. He nodded. His council immediately stood up and said, “Waylan Jones will accept the Consciousness.” She was about to add another statement but paused, thinking better of it, and sat down. Then she reached over and held his shaking hand.

“The choice is acknowledged by this tribunal. Sentence will be administered immediately,” she said.

At the prompt Chancellor Ryan Gamma-Four stood up, picked up a small black box from the table in front of him, and paced over to the table where the defendant sat. The meeting room was deathly quiet. He placed the box on the table, opened the lid, and took out two metal nodes, each trapezoidal in shape and three centimeters in diameter. Fine metallic tendrils writhed at the end of the trapezoids. As they neared Waylan they quivered, and snaked toward his temples.

In a quick motion Ryan Gamma-Four locked the nodes in place. Waylan gasped, then gave a strangled sound as his face contorted. His breathing became fast and shallow. Thin rivulets of blood dripped down from this temples as the tendrils drilled into his skull.

Rebecca’s eyes went wide as she tried to calm Waylan’s trembling hands. She whispered, “Don’t fight it. That only makes it worse…” Aki, Ryan and the rest of the audience looked on with dead eyes.

Finally Waylan collapsed. In a moment he sat back up, then stood. “I am Jones Delta-Seven. Transition complete.” His voice was lifeless.

The he looked over to Rebecca and deliberately removed his hands, which were no longer trembling, from her embrace. His eyes were emotionless and his face placid. Rebecca recoiled.

Aki said, “Welcome to the Consciousness, Jones Delta-Seven.”

*~*~*~*

2-sector southeast of Morgan Entertainment Inc. – MORGAN 2140

Nwabudike Morgan liked what he saw, he like it a lot. Down below him in the large mining area the giant supply crawler crept along the bottom as it moved from station to station. At each station the robotic conveyors dumped semi-refined ore into the waiting crawlers massive storage compartments. The mining operation had been nearly completely automated and hundreds of workers had been moved south with the terraformers to begin building a farm and solar collection station.

The supply crawler moved steadily around the mining floor and when it was filled up it would begin its trek towards Morgan Entertainment Inc. Along the way the supply crawler might pass several other crawlers as they began to make their return trip to the mines. In all Morgan could not be more pleased with the entire situation. The crawlers and robotic mining equipment only required a minimal maintenance staff. There would be no threat of strikes; no health care costs to provide for, no training needed and most importantly these crawlers always did what they were told.

Morgan reached into his pocket and pulled out his P.A.D. He quickly keyed in the number to his stock agent.

“Yes Director?” His agent answered. His stock agent had set aside a special communication line that only Morgan had access to.

“I want to acquire all the company shares and stock in the firm or firms that build the supply crawlers. I want to have controlling interest and I want the rights as well to negotiate service agreements for them. Is that clear?”

“Director I can do that buy we will need to liquidate some of your other holdings.”

“Divest my terraformer stock and company shares. With these supply crawlers I not only will get income from the service they provide but I can also leverage myself into any operation they service. Once a terraformer completes its job it moves on while my crawlers stay on the job for a lifetime. I want this done as quietly as possible. I know the consortium will begin to start buying up my stock and shares as quickly as possible so try to spread out the sales over time. However, begin moving as quickly as possible on the crawlers. The faster we move the more stocks and shares we gain without alerting other people to our actions and driving up the price. Is that clear.”

“Director it is crystal clear. I will begin at once. Thank you.”

Morgan turned off the device and slipped it back into his pocket. Just like back on Earth transportation was key to the development and wealth of many nations so it would be here on Chiron. If you controlled the means of moving materials to market then you also controlled the market. Morgan could see a time in the future where his supply crawlers would harvest all of the crops, minerals and manage the solar collection sites leaving people to do other more important things. Morgan’s crawlers would become the very heart of a great economic empire.

*~*~*~*

The Consciousness, MY 2141

<
((Welcome Prime Function. This is Jones Delta-Seven. The requested analysis was parsed out to 53 subminds within the Consciousness. Data are here…))

**Hop, hop. Link engaged**

((Net benefit projections for the Consciousness to attain critical mass considered the construction of infrastructure or additional colony pods for base establishment. The consensus was universal: colony pods for base expansion allow the best enhancement of industrial and scientific abilities.))

<
((Base expansion projected through the establishment of 9 bases is a Planned economy is continued, or 14 bases if a standard economic model is effected. After each of the three primary bases has produ ced its second set of colony pods nine bases will be established. The Prime Function will have to guide the Consciousness on the efficacy of further base expansion.))

<
##Session terminated##

*~*~*

Director Morgan’s boardroom, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2141


“I am sorry Alisa but if you don’t like it you can try somewhere else.”

Alisa Stevens and several other members of the consortium had traveled to Morgan’s city to discuss additional trade and business arrangements. However the scope of the meetings had be sidetracked by Morgan’s new monopoly on supply crawlers.

“Nwabudike I know you think you have us over a barrel on this issue but I will not agree to those terms. It simply is out of the question. I will not grant exclusive processing rights to your firms for the refinement of ores. We have our own refineries!” Alisa fired back in a strong and firm voice that left now room for debate.

“I see. Well Alisa I regret to say then these talks are concluded unless you can offer some other compensation for the services my crawlers provide.” Morgan’s reply was firm as well but not as firm which clearly indicated to Alisa that Morgan was not yet really closing negotiations.

“Well perhaps we could discuss food processing and distribution. This is one area where I will freely admit your factories do a far better job than ours. So perhaps we could offer you a majority position in our plants and allow you to reorganize them and operate them under your terms. Would that be of interest?” Alisa asked politely. She knew Morgan would bite at either this offer or a plan to take over the service contracts on all consortium solar farms. She suspected Morgan might go for the solar farms but she was not sure.

“Agreed. Thank you for coming and I will have papers prepared today so that before you leave we can complete our business.” Morgan stood up and quickly walked over to the end of the table where Alisa sat. She quickly stood up and shook Morgan’s hand and then picked up her folders.

“Thank you again and I will come and visit you next time, goodbye!” Morgan waved as the door closed behind them. He could hardly contain himself at the end there. He had never wanted the mineral processing rights he had always wanted the food processing rights and he got them. He has just completed a secret study that concluded that if he closed down the consortium plants and transferred the equipment and then reopened the plants to build luxury good items he would cut down on transportation costs by 34% and increase his profits by nearly twice that amount.

Morgan walked back to his desk and sat down. Alisa was smart but she was still not seeing the long-term picture here. Morgan wanted to be the master of everything, the controller of everything. Then within his empire he would set-up divisions that would in effect act like independent companies but behind them all they would find Morgan. He would tweak here and there but the net result would be vast increase in his wealth and power. Soon it would come soon. It was all a matter of time.

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2142

Psi Consciousness and Pi Complex had both completed their colony pods and they were on their way south. Terraformers were preparing the way with a direct roadway, which would greatly speed their travel, literally cutting years of the time to establish the base. The entire territory was very rich with abundant rainfall and a wide river valley. Indeed, no terraforming would be needed at all in this area. Every base would have its maximum harvest of food and abundant energy from the start. This meant that the six terraformers the Consciousness had to allocate could concentrate on roads in the south, and building forests on the nutrient lodes and other high-value terrain in the north.

Even better, Iota Station would be completing their foil soon. It was a modest affair with no weapons and no armor, but it would allow the Cyborgs to explore the sea, and more accurately determine what lay outside of the modest sized continent. There was even the possibility that there were other human factions on Chiron. Eight pods were present on Unity, and all but one had broken free. Considering the chaos it was just as likely that one or more made it safely to landfall.

At that thought the Prime Function felt a strange twinge of doubt. Zakharov had taught her that humans feared what they didn’t understand. Would the other humans fear and then hate the higher order of being the Consciousness represented? The answer, of course, was unknown. It may even be a mute question. But, it was one she submitted to the Program for low-priority consideration.

*~*~*~*

Office of Dr. Michael Strange, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2142

“This is a very impressive proposal Doctor. If even half of what you write happens I will be a very wealthy man.”

“Director I assure you it will. This new social program will improve efficiency, moral and increase our population growth by a full factor of two.” Michael quickly replied. He was shocked still from the surprise visit by the Morgan’s visit. Everyone in his office was trying to find some excuse to walk near Michael’s cubicle to eavesdrop on what was going on.

“I can only hope so Doctor because I am appointing you to head this program up. It’s an immediate promotion for you and anyone you would like to add to your staff. I am putting you in charge of Morgan Industries new department of employee services and morale. I cannot stress how critical it is that we are able to focus our resources into key production areas rather than just luxury goods and services. It will be your task to see that we improve our workers lives without increasing expenses. I know that’s a tall order but if your program works as you say it will your task will be easy as pie.” Morgan said happily. When one of Morgan’s aides had come across this unique idea he had immediately rushed it to Morgan for his review. The young man who had discovered this “gem” was also promoted as well. Morgan liked to reward initiative and hard work and promote those people that added to his wealth.

“Once again Director I thank you very much. If I may ask when do I start?”

“You start now. I have already issued an executive order for space to be made available for you in my headquarters. You can bring five assistants with you and additional support staff will be assigned to you from our clerical pool. Additional I have decided to be very generous with you as a reward for your idea. I will increase your pay by 10%! Your assistants will get a 5% increase.” Morgan beamed.

“Director thank you very much but I was expecting something more.” Strange replied quickly. His tone was firm but not so much so that he thought would make Morgan angry.

“If you had not said that then I think I might have made a mistake in promoting you. Here is what I will do then for you and your team. Any increase in affiance generated by your new social programs that you can document I will give you a 1% bonus! In addition, I will match that amount in Morgan stock options and that is my final offer.” Morgan stood up and shot out his hand.

“Agreed!” Strange quickly took Morgan’s hand and shook it.

Morgan turned and left the room and began walking back to his office complex. Technology was key to the future of Morgan Industries. Right now the combined research efforts by Morgan Industries and the Consortium were generating nearly 24 terraquads of information each turn. Morgan’s advisors had reported that he should see a major scientific breakthrough in 12 to 14 turns at this rate. The key was energy and resources to continue that effort and Morgan’s supply crawlers would be the key that unlocks that potential. Morgan had three crawler operations running now and more were slated to be built. It was just a matter of time he thought, a matter of time and money and he would be a very wealth and powerful man.

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2143

Rebecca Whinn shook her head in frustration. It was impossible dealing with these Cyborgs! Infuriating!

She would explain over and over the dire need for more terraformers, and all the other Chancellors would do is stare at her! They didn’t even seem to blink. They just…sat. Rebecca resisted the urge to scream, and recalled she had to reinforce that bit of control at least three times in this last session of the Chancellors.

Summoning her courage she tried again. “I don’t think you understand, First Chancellor Ryan,” she said, not deigning to use his new name Ryan Gamma-Four. She had known him for many decades to the Unity days, but the new Ryan was almost new to her. He had all of his memories, and could recall minute events from many years past, but it wasn’t the same Ryan. She continued, “After we complete the next four bases we will be out of territory that can sustain a base with 3000 people without starvation. That is not acceptable. Two terraformers are laboring near Iota Station and cannot get to territory where new bases will be constructed in a reasonable amount of time. Three formers are in the area, but they are constructing roads to aid the colonies to be set up in fertile areas. We can steal some terraformed land from Alpha Prime, but after that thousands of people will die.”

She waited for a response, or at least an acknowledgement. Nothing.

“We have to construct at least two formers and dedicate them to building farms. They have to work in teams, and in about eight years they may be able to prepare a base site. Of the bases in the area only Alpha Prime has the industrial base to construct the formers in less than three years. It will sap our industrial base, but we can assign the formers to the new base, if necessary.”

Rebecca paused again - still no response.

“Or we can delay construction of new pods at Upsilon Depot and Lambda Farms. Of these Lambda Farms is the most likely candidate since it started early. The colony pod at Upsilon Depot is almost done now that they’ve finished foresting the mineral lode. So, this is my recommendation: cease all colony pod production except at Upsilon Depot, divert production at Alpha Prime and Lambda Farms to construct a second former, and have other bases start infrastructure projects such as a recycling tank.”

The other Chancellors still gave her blank stares as if they were looking through her. It was almost not worth the effort being the last Full Human on the Chancellery, but she had a constituency to represent. And defend.

Finally a bit of life seemed to come into Aki Zeta-Five’s eyes. “Your position has been reviewed and endorsed by the Consciousness. It is well reasoned and beneficial to our people.”

That was all.

But, Rebecca was stunned. It was the nearest thing to a compliment that the cold Aki had ever given her.

	26-06-2004 09:14									#5
	Full PM-box? Change here!

Director Morgan’s office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2143

“What do you think will happen?”

Everyone in the room looked around at each other waiting for someone to speak. Morgan had called all of his top advisors into a meeting to discuss the impending population “situation” at Morgan Industries Inc. For the past four turns Morgan had directed Dr. Strange to track all births and population changes within all Morgan cities. The data clearly revealed that the population at Morgan Industries was about to top 5,000 people. The only problem with that is that the city had only been built to accommodate 4,000.

“This is unacceptable!” Morgan yelled as he slammed his fist down. Where exactly are these people going to go? Where are they going to live? These are customers, potential customers that I will loose right?”

“Director it is clear that the cost of living, the rent we charge here at Morgan Industries Inc. for even the worst rooms we have are now higher than the luxury apartments that people pay at another Morgan City. I expect that within the next few turns people will simply leave to seek accommodations elsewhere.” Dr. Strange said plainly.

“Unacceptable!” Morgan hit his fist again on the table. “Give me a plan now so that I don’t loose anymore potential customers to the consortium!”

“Director, if I may?” A young woman hesitantly spoke from the rear.

“What! Who said something?” Morgan demanded.

“Me sir, Rose Smith, I am the assistant to Mr. James.” Rose hesitantly stood up and everyone turned to look at her.

“What is it then.” Morgan commanded.

“Sir, we need to build more colonies, more cities I mean. I have been studying the issue for some time and we really need to expand, expand out I mean. More colonies, I mean cities.” Rose spoke quietly but you could tell she believed what she said.

“Director, if I may.” Dr. Strange stood up and looked at Morgan. “I think we need vertical expansion, not lateral. More cities will just dilute our available resources to support them. Please sir don’t listen to this girl. You have my proposal before you and I suggest we follow it.” Strange sat down again slightly irritated that his grand plan might be in jeopardy.

“Well young lady what do you have to say to that?” Morgan asked.

“Well sir he is right to a point. The problem Dr. Strange has not addressed in his proposal is the same problem that always plagued every big city, which was violence, crime and civil unrest. If we follow Dr. Strange’s plan then we immediately have to build even more infrastructure to provide outlets, recreational outlets to people or increase accessibility to luxury goods and services at lower prices to keep them happy. The return for this investment is long term, very long term. My proposal is immediate. We free up space and add facilities, more markets and more resources to support our larger company goals. I think Dr. Strange’s plan is good but its like jumping ahead before you are ready. You most likely will reach the spot you jumped to but you will break your leg in doing so.” Rose stopped and you could have heard a pin hit the carpeted floor.

“What exactly do you do Rose Smith?” Morgan asked as he stood up and walked around his desk to where she stood.

“Sir I am the senior comptroller in supplier crawler division.” She stated.

“How do you know this information?”

“Well Director I was asked to analyze the long term effects the supplier crawler program will create within our business ventures. As we build more crawlers we free up workers to do other things to do different work. Crawlers add resources without adding cost. More workers require more living quarters, more recreational outlets, more medical care more everything. I then added the costs associated with more workers and offset it against the benefits given to us by the supply crawlers and even with more crawlers the math clearly indicated that vertical growth at this time is far too costly. If we just build one colony pod then establish a new city those colonists immediately become a new market for the older cities. These new cities also can supply raw materials and goods and energy to our main cities. In time they will become more advanced and in time they themselves will establish new colonies. In time, as we gradually build more crawlers and more infrastructure and most importantly more nutrient farms to feed a larger population we could then support vertical growth but not at this time.” Rose quietly replied.

Morgan stood there silently staring at the girl for nearly five minutes.

“Young lady I am making you my new special assistant to the Director; me. I want to you to coordinate your research with Dr. Strange and develop a time table and plans as to when we can begin vertical growth.”

Everyone in the room was speechless including a very livid Dr. Strange who snapped his stylus in half.

*~*~*~*

Iota Station, MY 2144

The hull was hardly sleek, but it was seaworthy. Its impeller was not by any means powerful, but it would get the job done. The awkward craft was the first sea-going craft of the Consciousness, and its job was to explore the seas.

Much of the lay of the land had been determined, and so far the territory by Alpha Prime was very rich. The rest of the territory had potential, but would require considerable work. Survey teams had found the northern and western boundaries of their southern continent, and were working on the eastern edge. That, it would seem, was a long way off based on the fragmentary reports from their rover team.

This foil would fill in the void just beyond their coasts. Not much more than a sector of land could be seen and mapped from land, but there were tantalizing glimpses of islands and perhaps continents to the north. Nothing could be discerned from these hazy outlines on the horizon, but there was something there. These might prove to be fertile territory for expansion, or even other survivors from Unity.

The topic had been debated for decades within the Consciousness and it was generally decided that the last one or perhaps two decades of Zakharov’s leadership had been stagnant. Perhaps other factions could provide additional resources, or trade resources. If they were of good will, that is.

*~*~*~*

Director Morgan’s office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2144


“THE GREAT RACE!”

Morgan sat there in his chair with a blank expression on his face.

“How about, THE FIRST LANDING!”

Morgan continued to sit there saying nothing.

“The GRAND PRIZE!”

Morgan twitched slightly.

“Our idea sir is to advertise the event as a competition and the first colony that is up and running is awarded a 1,000 credits. If you review the proposal in front of you we will market this from every aspect. Prizes and awards for the first colony completed, the first colony to reach their sites and the first colony built. We will set-up a gambling cartel to handle the entire process and sell advertising space on each colony pod.” The young executive finished his proposal and then waited.

Morgan actually liked the idea but it needed polish and more details. He was sure his team could do it much better but this young fellow had at least had the smarts to copyright his idea with the exchange so Morgan had to either pay for the rights or co-opt him to sign over the rights.

“I think you have something here young man. Exactly how much are you asking for an investment?”

“10,000 credits sir.”

“Well, let me propose this. I will hire you immediately and you will join Morgan Enterprises. I will put you in charge of marketing support for this venture and I will handle the rest. What do you think?”

“Sounds great sir! It’s a deal!”

The young man raced forward to shake Morgan’s hand not realizing he had just given away his once in a lifetime fortune for nothing.

“Excellent! I will have the documents prepared immediately. We have to get working right away since both colony pods are expected to complete within 6 turns. Estimate another five turns for travel time and set-up so we should have two new cities within a decade. So you will have your work cut out for you to be sure. Thank you again for bringing this to me.”

*~*~*~*

Iota Station, MY 2145

Aki looked over the maps that had just been squirted to the Cyborg’s northern-most base Iota Station. The foil had been making its way north into what they initially thought would be a small bay. It turned out to be a series of bays that connected what appeared to be an archipelago. That was unexpected. The horizon silhouette suggested there were substantial landforms to the north, but these were low-lying and barely land at all.

The territory was also not very promising territory for expansion. For the time being, existing territory would have to do. This did make decision making for the Consciousness elementary since transports would not have to constructed, and the developing road system could be utilized.

It was still slow going. In the next few years four new bases would be constructed, and that would boost the Consciousness’ population by two-thirds. The new bases would be able to harvest a comparatively large amount of energy from the river valleys, and recent projections suggested that their scientific output would surge by almost fifty percent.

Such an increase would be a sorely needed morale boost to the Cyborg scientists, who hadn’t managed a breakthrough in fifteen years. At this rate there wouldn’t be one for another eleven years; it was a very poor showing, and they knew it.

*~*~*~

Wood processing plant #1, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2145


“Fred take it easy will ya!”

“How can I take it easy!” Fred Firestone yelled back as he crumpled the paper up and threw it at the ground.

Fred was livid. His face was nearly purple from yelling.

“Its not so bad.” Fred’s friend Barney said as he put his arm around him. “Just think at least we will be going together.”

“Well that’s just it you rock head! I don’t want to go and I can tell you one thing Wilma will not want to go either.” Fred finally sat down and rubbed his head.

It was not a good day for Fred Firestone, assistant supervisor at W.P.P.1 (Wood Processing Plant #1) He had just opened his company mail and found a notice that his employment contract had been sold to the parent division, Morgan Industries and then resold to Morgan Planet Colonization Inc. In effect, he had been told that he would be leaving with the next colony pod for parts unknown. The colony pod would be departing in four turns and colonists were needed. At first Morgan Planet Colonization Inc. had tried to recruit people by offering lucrative company share options and luxury items but that had only filled up 245 slots out of a thousand. The colonization team had to find bodies and quickly so they went back to Morgan Industries and worked out a deal. The colonization company could buy labor contracts to staff the colony in exchange for discounted rates for resources and manufactured items built at the colony. The discount rate would cover a time period of 25 turns.

“You could buy the contract back from Morgan Planet Colonization and then you could sell your rights to someone else? Perhaps the Consortium would be interested.” Barney said as he brought Fred another cup of coffee.

“That wont work either. I already called earlier today and they quadrupled the price on my labor contract. I would have to mortgage everything I own and sell off all of my options and shares to buy it back. I wouldn’t have to leave but my contract rights would be so high I would never get another job that would pay me back for the price I had to buy my rights at. Its useless.” Fred gulped down the coffee and then began to cry.

“Fred come on cheer up buddy!” Barney patted Fred on the back. “Try to find the angle on this situation. First, you and I will be going together. Second, we will most likely get a promotion out of this. We will be the most senior wood processing managers in the colony team so we can negotiate new options and pay.”

“You idiot!” Fred fired back. “What good will it do us! Stuck out in the hinterlands in a tiny cubicle to call home. No space at all for decades. I mean we just bought a brand new washer and dryer and now we will have to sell it and go back to using a community wash center. Wilma is going to freak out about this and I will be a dead man for sure.”

“Fred you have to find the angle on this. Sure it will be bad for a while but after that Wilma will most likely be top dog there. Wife of the assistant wood processing plant manager.” Barney said.

“Why not THE manager?” Fred looked up in dismay.

“Well that will be my job of course.” Barney jokingly replied.

Fred punched Barney.


*~*~*~*

Omicron Quadrangle, MY 2146

The Prime Function was pleased. Omicron Quadrangle was the Cyborg’s seventh base, and with it the Consciousness held more than 19,000 people. The site was in a river valley and the resources were copious. It was clear this was a very good site for a base. Their treasury had allocated 19 megacredits to finish their terraformer, and after that a scout defender.

Even better, two bases would be established next year, and yet another base the year after that. Therefore, in two more years the Consciousness would have tripled their population!

That was truly an achievement, for with new citizens new territory could be settled and resources harvested. The malaise that had taken hold of their cities under Zakharov would finally be lifted. The True Humans would become a welcome but ever decreasing minority as more and more people saw the advantages of the Consciousness.

*~*~*~*

Central boulevard, Morgan Industries – MORGAN 2146


Morgan watched the colonists march by the grandstand while thousands of people cheered them on. It had taken a considerable amount of working capital to finance this event. Morgan wanted to get moving on his plans to expand Morgan Industries by adding a habitat module so more people could live and work and shop at Morgan Industries. His competition had cried, “foul” when he had announced the advanced building program and in effect “won” his own contest to complete the first colony pod. The contest was never really in doubt since Morgan hated to loose and he would have done anything to make sure Morgan Industries won.

As Morgan watched he couldn’t help but notice one couple that trudged along near the rear of the colonists. The woman was anything but pleased about the situation and in fact he had noticed that twice she had hit the man next to her. The middle-aged man who plodded alongside and seemed to absorb the abuse without regard seemed to be even unhappier than the women. It was so odd since every other colonist seemed to be pleased about the parade and special events that Morgan had created as a reward for all the hard work they had done with the exception of these two people.

How odd Morgan thought?

As they past by the grandstand Morgan seemed to be unable to keep his eyes off of them as they marched by. The women could now be heard yelling something at the man who seemed to act like the lady’s husband. He stoically absorbed insult after insult from the women as they continued to walk on.

Morgan almost reached into his pocket to make a note to himself to find out why these two people were so angry and then canceled it. Trivial matters were for trivial people. All that really mattered was that the colony pod got to the site as quickly as possible and established itself with speed so it could add its resources to the Morgan machine.

Morgan watched as the colonists exited the main gate to Morgan Industries but he still could not keep his eyes off of that pathetic man.

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2147

Two bases had been founded within the last year: Sigma Complex and Kappa Hills. Both were in the fertile and enormous river valley near the southern pole. With their establishment the last of the prime land had been allocated.

And now the difficult decisions were required.

The Consciousness now had nine bases, three times that of Zakharov’s time. A tenth base would be established in the next year near Alpha Prime, and it would require Alpha Prime relinquishing some of its terraformed land. It would require Alpha Prime to utilize the undeveloped sea nutrient lode, which was rich in food but nothing else.

Two more colony pods would be finished within a year or two, and they too would need base site. The problem is that there were none to be found. Options had been made by the Consciousness but no resolutions reached.

In short, it was the decision of the Prime Function, the alpha of the Program and the Consciousness. The Consciousness had told her that We will learn from your decision, as if she knew something they did not. Even now she could feel them watching here even when she was not submerged within the Consciousness.

It was odd to be separated yet linked. She felt more alone now than she had ever felt. It was not a pleasant…emotion.

Aki turned to her task: finding base sites for two more colony pods. What were the variables? Psi Consensus in the northwestern portion of Cyborg territory would finish one pod. It was illogical to have that pod travel all the way to the undeveloped territory to the west and far east, none of which had territory that would sustain a population of 3000 citizens. She looked over the map and, by coincidence, her gaze chanced on the mouth of a small river valley across the bay from Alpha Prime and three sectors away from both Pi Complex and Psi Consensus. The area had terraforming for the citizens that could sustain 3000 people, if allocated carefully. Both of the other bases would have to make sacrifices and limit their production while terraformers were constructed. Yes. It would work.

The second problem was at Lambda Farms. It could complete its first colony pod in the coming year. Existing bases utilized all of the terrain to the north and south, and the undeveloped lands to the east and west were either arid or merely moist; none would sustain the base without starvation.

That was unacceptable.

There was only one solution: delay constructing the base until minimal terraforming was complete. What were her resources? - two terraformers near Kappa Hills. Both could utilized to construct farms in moist areas. It was inefficient, but less so than letting 2000 people starve to death.

And what would be the fate of other bases?

After a moment that answer became clear: cease building bases until terraforming progress was appropriate.

Aki submitted these recommendations to the Consciousness, who had been observing with great attention, almost anticipation. It took only a few moments for the logic to be digested, and then accepted.

Unanimity. Concurrence

Aki was pleased. She had made a decision without the direct intervention of the Consciousness and, in some ways, had exceeded her programming. Prokhor Zakharov had instructed her to ‘use your intuition’ and she had never understood that. He had explained that intuition was a process out of logic, out of conscious thought, that could be utilized. Was what she had experienced intuition? Unknown. And it would remain unknown until the event was dissected and analyzed by the Consciousness. Indeed, some were already doing so.

	11-07-2004 17:37									#6
	Increase the size of your Attachments

Construction site, Morgan Entertainment Inc. – MORGAN 2147

“When will you have it done?”

“Director it will be completed within six turns!”

Morgan merely nodded his head and began to walk slowly into the large complex as to avoid the piles of construction material and dirt.

“What will the capacity be?”

“This facility will be able to serve just over five hundred customers at any one time. As soon as the primary control and processing center is built we can add sub-stations to the network. Our marketing data clearly indicates that these large facilities will generate a great deal of revenue buy it will be the smaller sites that cater to more unique appetites that will generate even more revenue.”

Morgan stopped and turned to face the young executive, Paul McClain, who was in charge of the holo-graphic theater project at Morgan Entertainment.

“What do mean by “unique appetites” Paul. The proposal you sent me did not mention anything in that regard.” Morgan asked with a twinge of displeasure creeping into his voice.

“I am sorry Director I meant it to be as a surprise.”

“I don’t like surprises Paul lets get the clear now.” Morgan was now getting angry.

“Well sir.” Paul replied slightly flustered. “Here is the additional data we have on the project. It was not done when I had completed the first proposal so I left it off until I was sure of the figures.”

Paul reached into his pocket and pulled out a small silver disc and handed it to Morgan.

“What does it say?” Morgan asked as he took and began to place the disc into his P.A.D.

“Well sir by selecting discreet sites that cater to more “adult” entertainment we can generate nearly twice the revenue as this large facility here at a fraction of the operating cost. It seems even though people want “family” orientated entertainment they still deeply need and desire alternate forms of pleasure. Our test group almost became addicted to the adult entertainment packages we had.” Paul quickly tried to explain.

Morgan quickly scanned through the data and it was clear that these smaller “adult theaters” would be a revenue-generating goldmine. He would make nearly the same amount of credits on one adult holo-graphic theater as he would on all of his supply crawler operations combined. It was staggering.

“Paul in the future never withhold data from me. Second, have you shown this to anyone else?”

“No sir. My team members assembled the data in groups so none of them have the complete data to review, only me.” Paul replied hesitatingly.

“Excellent Paul, excellent. Now I think you understand the importance of this data correct?”

Paul nodded yes.

“Good, so I think we need to make a deal. I will promote you to executive vice-president of Morgan Entertainment and give you full stock and share options backdated to the beginning of this year. In return this data will be kept secret until a time I choose to release it. Once we have the majority ownership in this program then we can decided what to do with this information.” Morgan said quietly.

“What will the board members do when they find out that we withheld information from them?” Paul whispered.

“Nothing Paul, nothing. The board and I will deal with it then and I can assure you nothing will happen because of it. Now do you have anymore copies of this data?”

“No.”

“Do you have the supporting data still that you used to develop the report?”

“Yes.”

“Good send it all to me by this afternoon and when I have it your promotion will be effective immediately.”

Both of them smiled.

Morgan turned back to tour the construction site and realized even though humanity was now living in the future Morgan was about to become the wealthiest man on Chiron because of the oldest business: sex.

*~*~*~*

Northern Sea, MY 2148

Captain Hernandez Cappa-Three linked briefly with his crew. All were busy at their tasks and did not require his guidance. They had been exploring for several years now and knew each other, and their jobs, very well.

So far the voyage had been something of a disappointment. At first they had been tasked to explore the coastlines of the large landmass to the north. Then, it appeared to be more of an archipelago. But, as their foil explored further inland their archipelago turned out to be just a very long bay. They had penetrated quite a ways inland, but had wasted two years making their way out again. In retrospect they may have been better off simply following the coast since they would have covered much more area.

All of that was second guessing, and quite useless. The Consciousness had agreed with the recommendation; it was logical, based on available information. It was just so…frustrating.

Hernandez knew that the frustration was a remnant from his days as a Full Human several decades ago. Traits such as that are hard to un-learn, even with the aid of the links with his coworkers. Of course, he could not link with the main body of the Consciousness; such an act required a direct physical link, and they had been away from home for many years now. By compensation he had learned to link with his co-workers, all of whom were part of the Consciousness. He tried to limit this link since it was rather shallow, and could be overused. It was difficult, but necessary, for his mission.

*~*~*~*

Two sectors east of Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2148

“Are we really there Fred?”

“Yes dear we are. No more walking but it will still take us a turn to get the colony pod unloaded and the habitat modules built.” Fred replied as he sat down on small chair in their pressure tent.

For the most part the trip had easy to make since Unity Consortium terraformers had built a road to the site. However, almost every step of the way every meter they walked Fred’s wife complained and complained and complained.

“Well I do hope that they are building the supervisors habitat modules first.” Wilma sniffed.

“Yes they are dear and it cost us to. Nothing is for free you know. The city manager allocated labor to construction based on who could pay the most to get it done. Of course the supervisors had the most money so ours will be built first.” Fred replied bemoaning the fact that it had cost him 200 credits.

“Well I am glad that even though we are out on the frontier that people still respect money and wealth out here. Just because we have limited resources and we are far from civilization we shouldn’t forget the things that got us her.” Wilma said as she busied about the small tent preparing lunch.

“Well I can assure you dear that no one here has forgot about money.” Fred replied sarcastically.

“I should hope not. What type of society would we be if wealth was not the cornerstone of our civilization? I mean why would anyone do anything for anyone if profit was not involved. I know my father said on Earth at one time they actually allocated resources equally to everyone no matter what you did, everyone shared equally. The thought sickens me.” Wilma almost gagged at the end as she pulled the processed dinners out of the microwave unit.

“Wilma I know the thought sickens me too but I don’t react that bad when I say equality. Are you okay?” Fred said as he took his lunch.

“I have just been feeling kind of tired and sick in the mornings it gets better by the end of the day.” Wilma said as she began to eat her lunch.

Fred began to eat his lunch knowing that everything was going to get better soon. They would soon have their own living compartment as opposed to the hundreds of workers who would have to live in communal dorms. As soon as work started he would have a challenge awaiting him there and the sky was the limit when it came to the amount of credits and profits he could make. Yes, nothing could knock him off track now.

Suddenly Wilma vomited her lunch all over Fred.

“Dear.” Fred said as he tried to hold his lunch down. “Could you go see a doctor!”

*~**~*

Epsilon Center, MY 2149

Despite all of their best efforts a thousand citizens had starved to death at Epsilon Center. A sudden shift in rainfall patterns had changed a moist area with a farm into an arid area, resulting in a critical loss of food production. That was all it took to cause the mass starvation of a third of the new base’s population.

The Consciousness was still reeling from the loss. Everyone felt the sad decline and eventual silence of the voices. It was a loss for the Program.

It was also a rebuke for her policies, Aki new. There were none within the Consciousness that directly or indirectly blamed her, but she couldn’t help feel responsible. She had made the decision when her advisors could not, and this decision had not gone well. Some of the assumptions required for the basis of that decision had been in error. Well, not in error. The situation had chanced.

This must be what Zakharov meant when he said, Leadership is not for the faint of heart. At the time Aki new she had no idea what he was talking about. When the Program had first been initiated the paths of logic were clear and unobstructed by doubt or conflicting data. And as she examined even mundane issues she had found that most issues suffered from a distinct lack of data, sometimes on critical points. Worse were conflicting data, or data that were likely in error.

As a result Aki had had to make educated guesses, and in doing so exceed her Program. Zakharov was intensely please when she demonstrated she could do this. Aki imagined his lopsided grin and tried to feel the joy he would have felt.

She failed.

	11-07-2004 17:39									#7
	Full PM-box? Change here!

Office of the City Manager, Morgan Antimatter Inc. – MORGAN 2149

“Yes Director Morgan we are now fully operational.”

“Excellent work Mr. Williamson. Now when do you expect to have your recreation center up and running?” Morgan asked.

Williams quickly picked up his P.A.D. and flipped through several files to find the data.

“In 12 turns Director.”

“Can you do better?” Morgan asked his voice tinged with a bit of urgency.

“I am sorry but no Director I cannot. We simply lack the resources at this time to build any faster. Perhaps if you could rent a few terraformers from Unity Consortium we could add a mine or an agricultural/energy sector. But without those improvements our operations here will be modest to say the least.” Seth quickly replied. It was not a good habit to “sugar coat” situations with the Director. It was much better to give him the facts and allow him to decide.

‘I see. The data I have from our colonization task force supports your conclusions as well. I just wanted to make sure the situation had not changed.” Morgan replied.

“Yes Director I agree.” Williamson said as he leaned slightly closer to the vid-phone as he shifted his weight in his chair. “Director back to the subject about terraformers, when will we get some?”

Now Morgan looked slightly uneasy. He looked to his left and then shuffled some papers and then looked back at the vid-phone.

“Well Williamson we are in negotiations with Unity Consortium but the price they currently want to charge for terraforming is astronomical. I have contracts to complete several projects now but when they run out I will have to renegotiate with Unity to get a better rate. As of right now it will be some time before I can get you those formers. I had hoped that the forest sector we had planted some time ago might have expanded by now but it seems that expectation was too over optimistic. If all goes well Williamson I will try and have a tandem crew of formers to you within five turns. That’s the best I can do for now.” Morgan did not sound happy about this whole situation. Williamson had thought when Morgan had dumped all of his terraforming options and shares it was a bad mistake but he was the Director and Seth Williamson was only a city manager.

“Thank you again Director, we will try our best to get through. I think the best thing for me to do is to look at my labor pool and see who can be reassigned. I have about 50 workers and managers who are trained in wood processing but since we have no forests to harvest they are essentially worthless until we do. I think if I switch them to other labor projects I can increase some of our productivity.” Williams said as he jotted down some information on his P.A.D.

“Excellent thinking Williamson, think out of the box I always say. Keep up the good work and I will inform you the minute those formers become available. Morgan out.”

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2150

More riots wracked the Consciousness.

It was enough that new bases slipped immediately into chaos until a garrison was there to create order. Now established bases were suddenly sliding into unrest. The question was, why?

Subunits of the Consciousness had been tasked with this problem and most of their answers were either trivial, or a little odd. On assigned subunit had even observed that the chaos was the cause of unstable elements in Cyborg society. That was code for Full Humans. Of course that was ridiculous. Every Cyborg base had a minority of Full Humans, and if they were the cause then the same unrest would be seen in every Cyborg base, to some degree at least. It was disappointing that this analysis team had not completed this logical assessment. But, it was instructive since it demonstrated that Cyborgs were subject to some of the same foibles that Full Humans were pray to: ignorance, bias, and chauvinism.

One team’s theories did show some promise. It hypothesized that the smaller human communities on Chiron had none of the societal and infrastructure support they were accustomed to on Unity and on Earth, and that humans needed these support structures. Therefore, when these support structures were absent there was a natural tendency toward societal chaos. Further, the analysis group postulated that the level at which a society would experience chaos was proportional to its societal efficiency and the number of social clusters (Aki translated this pseudo intellectual jargon as ‘bases’).

Aki digested this and it made logical sense. It also jibed with earlier analysis. There had been increased chaos with the establishment of the 10th and 11th Cyborg bases, and that is when established bases had descended into unrest. This empirical evidence supported their postulates.

If this was true there were several options. First, they could continue expanding and deal with the unrest with improved infrastructure. Expansion was an imperative, and would be done even if unrest caused more problems throughout their cities. This inferred that established bases concentrate on infrastructure, while newer bases build additional colony pods. Second, they could desist their Planned economy and forsake its growth and industrial bonus since it did sap their natural Cyborg efficiency. This growth in efficiency would increase the threshold at which unrest would occur. Third, a portion of the Cyborg treasury could be allocated to societal calm, although this would be massively inefficient but could be explored.

This extrapolation of the analysis team’s recommendation would bear further discussion with the Consciousness. Aki was sure that the first option was the most efficient, even with the penalties it presented. Above all else the Cyborgs had to diversify and their holdings to increase their resource base. In the last 20 years this had increased their yearly treasury by an order of magnitude, their population by a factor of three, and their scientific output by over a factor of three.

Expansion was a good objective.

*~*~*~*

Private apartments of Nwabudike Morgan – Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2150

Morgan lounged in his giant bathtub and sipped a brandy as he reviewed the financial reports. It had been another good turn, a really good turn.

On balance profits were up and in double digits. Each turn Morgan became wealthier and more powerful. Each department also reported record results as well. Unity Consortium had sent their report on terraforming operations and it was very good. More roads and more mines and more farms had all been completed this turn and most importantly Morgan had completed his negotiations with the Consortium and now two terraformers were moving towards his newest city Morgan Antimatter Inc.

Of course Morgan’s supply crawler division was also very profitable as well. Five crawlers were in operation harvesting over 19000 metric tons of raw minerals each turn. More crawlers were being built that would dedicated to harvesting crops or energy collection.

Another area of great optimism was Morgan’s scientific divisions. His division managers reported that they expect to have another breakthrough in just a few turns and they should easily be able to keep on pace to achieve a breakthrough every 10 to 12 turns.

Habitat modules were under construction at Morgan Industries and Unity Consortium, which would even more workers at each city.

Lastly Morgan entertainment division was about to complete the first holographic projection theater system and expected profits would be monumental.

It was all-good Morgan thought but for all the achievements they had reached they still lacked one vital component: trade. Without an external source for marketing the luxury items Morgan Industries built the bubble would soon pop and Morgan would be in a very tight place. Workers could buy only so much and then when they purchased all that they can where did the goods go then? Soon he would be forced to lay workers off which in turn would decrease the available market for goods and so on and so forth. It was not a good scenario.

Morgan needed markets; it was that simple.

*~*~*~*

Northern Sea, MY 2151

The coastline seemed to go on forever. Now that they were out of the long, thin north trending for several years they had been able to fulfill their mission: explore the seas, find the locations of new lands and potential sites for colonies, and find any other survivors of Unity.

To date they had been able to explore a considerable area along the huge continent north of Cyborg territory. The southwestern coast of this landmass seemed to go on and on. All of the land the crew had diligently mapped was of no greater worth than the land on their continent.

They had found no trace of any survivors, either. It was entirely possible, although not pleasant to contemplate, that the Cyborgs were the last remnant of humanity. However, it was equally possible that other Unity landing pods had made it safely to Chiron; the Cyborg settlements were evidence of that. Even if there were survivors they may not be on the coasts, and Chiron was a large world. It would take decades for their little craft to explore even a portion of this new world.

Every addition to the knowledge base of the Consciousness was welcome, however. Captain Hernandez Cappa-Three knew his wasn’t a military craft. His mission was exploration, and he hoped to have the good fortune to complete his mission with distinction.

*~*~*~*

Two sectors south of Unity Consortium Inc. – MORGAN 2151

“Sir we need to rest!”

Jefferson R. Maxwell looked at the group of workers and he was disgusted.

“Look there will be no resting, is that clear! We need to keep moving. We have only one more sector to go and we are there. It should only take us a turn at worst to get the colony up and running and then you can rest all you want but not till then. If you want to rest then give me your names and I will log them into the payroll records as incompletes and you will get no shares!” Maxwell fired back.

Everyone in the group kept quiet.

“Good now back to work, we can still make another three kilometers before dusk.”

The meeting was at an end and everyone with the exception of Maxwell began trudging back to the large colony pod.

“Okay Red start’er up and lets get moving!” Maxwell barked into the radio unit and within a few seconds the colony pod began to shake and then move.

Maxwell had never wanted to be the city manager for this project, not in a million years. Too much was riding on this and too many eyes would be looking to blame him if it failed. The colony site was perfect, just along the southwestern coastline and situated along a slight bluff area. Plenty of fertile soil and resources to be found.

What troubled Maxwell was the lack of terraformer support for this project. That “devil” Morgan had secured all of the Consortiums terraformers for nearly a decade. It would be some time until any resupply units arrived or terraformers. Maxwell would be on his own.

That was why Alisa Stevens had chosen him over so many other influential and educated managers. Maxwell was old school, he could get his hands dirty and he could make things work. It was that simple. If perhaps the city had been established closer Maxwell might have ended up as manager of one of the terraforming projects but in this case he was it.

Maxwell looked around and then picked up his pack, it was time to catch up with the lumbering pod and get the people moving as well. There were still some “clumps” of people who hadn’t got the word to get going as if the colony pod leaving the area was not indication enough.

Idiots!

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2152

“We think it’s a mindworm, Prime Function,” the rover team stated.

Aki Zeta-Five paused. She did not know how to proceed.

The Full Human Alicia Brown stepped in. “What is a mindworm, Captain.”

“Oh, I forgot. We just named it that. It came at us from the fungus, you know the pinkish fields that cover bits of Chiron. We had no choice but to plow into the stuff since our way north. As we entered the some of us…felt…something was wrong. Uneasy. Minutes later the fungus seemed to seethe. Thousands of little worms started to almost flow together, and then the flowed toward us! People started screaming, we don’t know who.

“John remembered we had a flamer to burn through light brush, and he turned it on full. Then he turned the rover toward them, spraying the flame across the swarm as it flowed over the rover. They immediately started to burn, and crisp. But that only made it worse! Two of us were already gone, passed out. John remained conscious. He saved us all.”

“Thank you Captain Bretten. I’d like to nominate Private John Wellington for a field promotion to Lieutenant for his initiative and courage,” Alicia said as she surveyed the rest of the Chancellors.

Aki thought it over, and decided to acquiesce. It would look bad for the Chancellors to turn down a field nomination that was clearly deserved, even if it was a mere Full Human. The rest of the crew of the rover was part of the Consciousness, and they had all failed to act.

“Agreed,” she said. “Please issue a proclamation Chancellor Brown. Lieutenant Bretten’s actions are worthy of full honors.”

Alicia nodded, hiding a brief smile.

*~*~*~*

Morgan Industries branch office complex, Morgan Entertainment Inc. – MORGAN 2152

“Look at it! Just look at it! They are lining up around the block to get in!”

Morgan stood in front of the large window that looked out onto the large holo-graphic theater below.

“Director there are so many people right now that we will have to keep the theater open around the clock to accommodate them.” One of Morgan’s assistants commented from behind him.

“Well then have them keep it open then!” Morgan bellowed in annoyance but with a smile on his face. The profits on this facility would be immense. It was so simple to see that this facility coupled with the recreation centers that every vice or recreational need could be met and more importantly satisfied.

With this operation up and running it was time for Morgan Entertainment Inc. to add more habitat modules to accommodate more workers. More workers meant more goods, service and resources and in the end more money for Morgan.

“How soon can work begin on the habitat modules?” Morgan asked his group of advisors knowing that one of them would have the answer.

“Director we can begin within 60 days. One of the assistants reported.

“Good.” Morgan rubbed his hands behind his back. “One of you draw up a company directive to be issued to the city manager here at Morgan Entertainment to begin construction the habitat modules.”

Morgan could here several of his assistants quickly move to a computer and begin work on the directive. Morgan liked that. When he spoke people would react immediately. Sometimes it was a curse but most of the times it made him money, lots of money and that’s what was really at stake here.

Morgan looked down again at the people milling about below him and smiled. It was all too perfect he thought, too perfect.

*!*!*!*!*

Alpha Prime, MY 2153

“This is our first breakthrough since our founder Zakharov passed away,” Chancellor Brown stated. “Ethical Calculus offers the significant benefits of a fully Democratic government. As our projections have shown, this should give our society a new vitality of growth and efficiency, both of which will benefit our people. At issue is a progressive decrease in our society’s tolerance of military efforts.”

Aki sat forward. “What is your opinion, Chancellor?”

“I believe that we should switch to a Democratic government as soon as we can. The growth benefits are significant, as I mention, but the increased efficiency will counteract the inherent inefficiency of our Planned economy. Efficiency is key, Chancellors, to societal stability. We all know that two or three of our bases have suffered from the structural problems of inefficiency: a change to a Democratic form of government will change this, allowing increased productivity that offsets the decreased support rate. Basically, it will allow us to form a larger and more prosperous society.”

Aki listened to this Full Human with her full attention, even cutting off the chatter from the analysis groups in the Consciousness. Her reasoning was clear and thorough. It was almost like she was a member of the Consciousness, and proved that Full Humans had a place within Cyborg society.

That thought was shunted off to an analysis group within the Consciousness.

	11-07-2004 17:42									#8
	Increase the size of your Attachments

Main administration complex, Unity Collections Agency – MORGAN 2153

City Manager Maxwell was a happy man today. It was the first day of business for Unity Collections Agency Inc. For intents and purposes all of the major “kinks” had been worked out and people were all fully employed doing their assigned jobs and duties.

“Mr. Maxwell?”

Maxwell turned to his left to see who had said his name. A young woman stood there in a very expensive suit and holding a top of the line Morgan Electronics P.A.D.

“Yes how can I help you?” Maxwell asked.

“Mr. Maxwell I am Tasha Williams from Morgan Industrial Automation Group and I am the sales representative for this territory.” She quickly flipped her P.A.D. open and waited patiently for Maxwell to open his so she could beam her business card to him.

“I am a bit confused Ms. Williams. We just got up and running here so how in the world did you get here?” Maxwell replied with a slight hint of irritation in his voice.

“Mr. Maxwell I do apologize for showing up without an appointment but I thought it best to see you before things got to busy around here. What I would like to discuss with you is a contract to set-up an supply crawler automation line here at Unity Collections Agency Inc.”

“We just finished setting up!” Maxwell incredulously. “I mean seriously, this is our first day at full operation. We haven’t even got a terraformered project built yet and you are here asking me to sign a contract to set-up a robotic supply crawler operation. I mean exactly where would I put it?”

Ms. Williams stood patiently while Maxwell finished speaking and then raised her P.A.D. again as a sign she wanted to beam him something into his P.A.D. Maxwell raised his P.A.D. and activated the receive button and the device chirped that it had downloaded the information.

“Please take some time to review our standard contract and operational requirements for supply crawler operations.” Williams calmly replied. “Mr. Maxwell I don’t think you fully understand why I am here. You will purchase a crawler from me today. We will sign the contracts today. You will need one and I know you will need one. They take time to build and install so as to the location or what it will be doing is irrelevant to me at this time. The robotic systems can easily be changed from a mining operation to harvesting crops. What we need to do no is set-up your payment schedules and go over any insurance options and service contracts you wish to carry so that you can have one when you need one.”

Maxwell stood there seething in anger but he knew she was right. Every Unity Consortium or Morgan City had at least two crawlers in operation so it was just assumed he would need one to. But what he hated was the brashness of this woman to almost demand that he buy those damned things, especially today of all days. In addition, he was still unnerved as to how she even got all the way to his city since there was not even a road yet built. Lastly, he cursed the day that Unity Consortium allowed Morgan to win control over those devices. Crawlers were wonderful devices there was no doubt about it. They did the work that hundreds of workers would have to do. Right now his small manufacturing complex was working on a terraformer so that they could develop the rich lands around the city. After that was built a recreation center was next on the construction schedule. Any supply crawler would have to be built at a Morgan city where they had the facilities and resources.

“All right Ms. Williams lets go to my office and start reviewing the contracts and agreements.” Maxwell replied dejectedly.

“Excellent news Mr. Maxwell. I will even treat us to lunch afterwards!”

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2154

“What do you mean, head back west?” Stevens Iota-One stated.

The grainy video image was impassive. “Just that, administrator. “The Consciousness has reviewed their analysis and found it to be in error. Your colony was intended for the eastern coast, but due to delays the terraforming required to support a city of 3000 will not be complete for at least six more years. In the meantime, formers freed up from other duties have prepared a site just west of Alpha Prime. This area is a critical link in our base structure, and will tie our northern holdings to our core at Alpha Prime.”

“But,” he started.

“The matter is not open for discussion, administrator. Inform your colonists to move east. The Consciousness fully understands the delay and wasted effort, but it is more important to secure the colony such that a thousand Cyborgs do not starve, correct?” the image said.

Stevens was silent for a moment, then said reluctantly, “Yes.”

“Compliance is expected. Alpha Prime, out.”

The image west dark, and Stevens stared at it for a moment. He was only a Level 2 Cyborg and a junior member of the Consciousness, but it irked him to have Aki Zeta-Five be so cold. Granted, she had the logical disciplines of the Consciousness longer than anyone, but this was ridiculous!

Well, there was nothing for it.

Stevens Iota-One got up and paced to his right. He touch-opened his pressure tent and trudged outside to tell his soon-to-be disappointed colonists they had to trudge almost from the area they came from.

*~*~*~*

Manager’s office of Wood Processing Plant #2, Morgan Antimatter Inc. – MORGAN 2154

Fred Firestone walked into this new office and smiled. He briskly walked over to his new desk, made from genuine wood; one of the first things made at the plant and sat down. He quickly emptied his briefcase onto the desk and organized them into the various drawers. Fred spun about in his chair and then activated his computer.

After a quick check of his stocks and how they performed over night he then activated his e-mail system.

101 e-mails!

Fred rubbed his face in worry. He had just started 20 minutes ago and he had 101 e-mails! It was inconceivable! When he was just an assistant supervisor at the processing plant at Morgan Industries he never had more than 20 to 30 e-mails ever.

Fred quickly got to work opening each e-mail and reviewing the requests or changes or reports that he would have to take care of. It was mind numbing at first but Fred quickly sorted out all of the important, must do, e-mails from the ones that could wait.

“Ms. Ryan could you come in here?” Fred hit the intercom for his secretary.

Within a minute Ms. Ryan came. She was perhaps the oldest person Fred had ever seen since landing on Chiron and she looked like a walking battleship.

“Yes Mr. Firestone?” She asked very impolitely.

“Yes, umm Ms. Ryan I need for you to pull some records and information for a report I need to have done.” Fred asked timidly.

“Why don’t I just do those reports Mr. Firestone. It would be much faster for me to just do them than have to explain the information to you.” Ms. Ryan grumbled back.

“Well, if you think it is best I suppose that would be alright. I also need all of the supervisor records so that I can set-up a schedule for work reviews.” Fred said as he began to run through his punch list of items to do.

“Sir, perhaps I could do that as well since I have already started a program to handle the information and notifications.” Ms. Ryan grumbled again.

“Well I suppose that is okay. I have a list here of things I need to do today. Perhaps you could review them and see what else you might or might not be already working on.” Fred handed her the list.

Ms. Ryan quickly reviewed it and then checked off about two-thirds of the items on the list and then handed it back.

“I will get you the information to do those reports on your list.” She swung about like a battleship making a wide turn at sea and then left the room.

Fred Firestone eased himself back into this chair and smiled. Yes, today would be a good day indeed!

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2155

There was a consensus: the Consciousness had reached a plateau. With the temporary cessation of base establishment growth had slowed considerably, and with it the expansion of scientific advancement and resource collection. Even the construction of recycling tanks and recreation commons had not significantly increased the acquisition of resources.

It was a quandary for which the Consciousness had no solution.

The Full Human Rebecca Whinn, as usual, had a suggestion: change from a Planned to a Free Market economy. The Consciousness had recoiled at the thought since there would be massive social chaos, and a noticeable increase in reticence in exploration. The benefits, however, were tempting: an 80% increase in energy to the treasury, and a 50% increase in research output. That would be offset by measured necessary to quell social unrest, but it was a useful long-term strategy.

Another benefit: increased efficiency would decrease the unrest caused by the Planned economy. At least three bases would benefit, offsetting some chaos from the switch.

It was an intriguing option. Aki shunted it to her advanced strategy sub-cells for analysis, and an annotation that she expected a recommendation within the year.

*~*~*~*

Director Morgan’s private apartments, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2155

“Well do we have a deal?”

Morgan waited patiently for his response. It had been a long day of meetings, nothing but meetings but his last meeting was to be his best or worst of the day. He was working on a deal to complete a merger with a small and little known company that had started up shortly after landing. They had developed a system to “store” energy and decrease the loss of electrical energy along distribution lines. The company currently had only one operation up and running at Morgan Industries but they wanted to expand to other cities. That was where Morgan came in. He wanted to negotiate for the rights to handle the distribution and operation of the energy bank system in each of the cities but the CEO of the company was still resisting.

“Mr. Morgan I.”

“Please I told you before call me Nwabudike.” Morgan interrupted.

“Okay, Nwabudike. As I was saying I really think my company can handle the distribution, operation and service contracts for the system. I am not sure exactly how you add anything to what we can currently offer.” Ms. Derry replied calmly but her voice sounded tired. It had been a long evening with the Director and he was not letting up on trying to merge with her company.

“Michelle what I can bring to the table is me!” Morgan laughed. “I know it sounds presumptuous but it really is the truth. I can help cut through the red tape and make things easy for everyone to get this going.”

“Nwabudike as I said I really think we can handle it.”

“Do you?” Morgan interrupted again and his voice was now hard and stern the first time tonight it had sounded anything but pleasant and happy. “Let me now be blunt Michelle I can not afford for your company to operate such a lucrative business without me. It is that simple. I will be a partner. Now, here is what I am offering. I will remain a minority holder of the company; say 35% of the total outstanding shares. From that purchase you should have more than enough resources to expand your research into other fields and systems. In turn, I will have exclusive rights to negotiate labor contracts to run the system along with being the sole distributor for spare parts. I will also have the sole rights to negotiate with City Managers on the purchase of the system. Your company will continue to build the systems and install them and provide service work as needed. That is my final offer.”

Michelle Derry had outlined three possible proposals that Morgan might offer and this was the least intrusive of the three. She would still maintain control of the company. She did not like the part about Morgan being her “sales force” but she realized that she did not have much of a choice. The Unity Consortium had already approached her and their offer was for more intrusive.

“Alright Nwabudike you have a deal. You can come by tomorrow to sign the contracts and make the transfers.” Michelle replied wearily.

“Wonderful news!” Morgan had switched back to his old jovial self again. “I will be around about 9:00am!”

*~*~*~*

Western Sea, MY 2156

Captain Hernandez Cappa-Three was tired. The coastlines seemed to go on forever and, even though he had grown to love the sea, it had been almost a decade since they had left port. Even the most hardened of his sailors had expressed some regret at their long time away from home.

In truth it would be a very long time before they were likely to see the Consciousness again. Their course had taken them westward along the coast. So far they had seen a lot of land and even more water, but no terrain that was particularly noteworthy, nor had they encountered any other human colonies.

Granted, they had only explored a small portion of Chiron, but there was always hope that around the next peninsula or in the next bay they’d find a human outpost, proof that there were other survivors from Unity. Over a decade had passed and there were no signs of life. The longer the silence extended the less hope they all had. It would never decrease to no hope unit all of Chiron was explored.

That exploration would take a long time. He hoped that more foils would be constructed since sea exploration was the most efficient way of charting the surface of this planet. So far his appeals to the Chancellery had been politely received, but the response had been muted, at best.

*~*~*~*

New habitat module construction zone, Morgan Industries Inc. –MORGAN 2156

Morgan walked along the bright corridors and occasionally looked into one of the apartments that workers were still putting the finishing touches on. These new apartments would expand the living capacity at Morgan Industries by nearly double.

“Director.”

Morgan stopped and turned around to see who had spoken. It was George Mack one of Morgan’s deputies in charge of the project.

“Sir I just received the latest population studies from the labor office and it isn’t good. Based on current projections the population and labor force will once again exceed our capacity to house them, which in turn will force many of them to leave to other cities. We will not have the habitat modules completed before that increase is expected.” Mack reported.

Morgan was not happy anymore. Three times he had seen some of his best workers pack up and simply leave because he could not provide them a place to live which void their labor contracts. Many of them found employment at other Morgan Cities but what really bothered him was that some of them went to work for the Consortium.

“Is there anything we can do?” Morgan asked impatiently.

“Well, we are very close sir to completion of this project. If you would be willing to authorize overtime for the laborers and pay a premium for materials to be delivered before they were normally scheduled to arrive we could complete the project next turn.” Mack answered as he pulled out his P.A.D. to recheck his figures.

“How much will it cost?” Morgan questioned.

“Around 40 mega credits.” Mack replied calmly hoping his demeanor would defuse his boss’s anger.

Morgan was not angry. Every good businessman knew that sometimes you had to invest in your own infrastructure from time to time. By building up more infrastructures he would add more workers. More workers would increase his profits. In time that 40-mega-credit investment would be paid back 100 fold.

“I will issue the orders to my agents in the morning you will have all the resources you need to complete this project next turn. Is that clear!” Morgan commanded.

“Very clear Director!” Mack replied enthusiastically.

*~*~*~*

Beta Crossing, MY 2157

The new colonists were happy, and even the full members of the Consciousness were getting in the mood for a logical amount of fun. Across the large pressure tent erected for this occasion many of the citizens of the new city Beta Crossing were having a good time. A few Full Humans had already crossed from happy to face down drunk, as were a few Cyborgs. Off in the corner Aki spotted a Level 2 member of the Consciousness that was making a poor but enthusiastic rendition of one of Zakharov’s last speeches, which was her version of being a ‘party animal’.

As the leader of the Chancellery Aki and the rest of the members were present and conversing with the citizens of the new bases. The Full Human Chancellors did this easily, even with normally reserved Cyborgs and aloof members of the Consciousness. This wasn’t the first time Aki wished she had a better understanding of this portion of human nature, but she knew if she did there would be an unacceptable price to pay. Full Humans were isolated even with other people, and they were slaves to those very emotions that made them better at social interaction. Cyborgs had some of the advantages of Full Humans and members of the Consciousness since they had biomechanical augmentation, but they could never participate in the Consciousness and the nature as modified kept them apart from Full Humans. Those in the Consciousness had taken biomechanical augmentation one-step further. They had accepted modest mechanical integration, but also the ability to link and accept the Program. This severe interface blunted human social emotions through a direct connection to the cerebral cortex.

There were logical means to overcome what Full Humans called a handicap, or being an emotional cripple. Zakharov had taught her to learn and understand through the Program, and with it she could function with unstable Full Humans and Cyborgs that were on their way to accepting the Consciousness.

For the time being Aki accepted this limitation. In time it would be the Full Humans that would have to learn to accommodate the Consciousness.

	11-07-2004 17:44									#9
	Support Apolyton, buy Alpha Centauri

Main boardroom, Unity Consortium Inc. – MORGAN 2157

“What do you mean our workers are rioting?!” Alisa Stevens demanded.

“Madame President it seems the workers have heard of Director Morgan’s new habitat complex he has built at Morgan Industries and they want the same thing here now.” Joshua Tate quickly replied. Tate was one of Stevens chief deputies but was not yet a full board member.

“Madame President the board takes a dim view of the current situation. It has stopped production on our own habitat complex. Our enforcers cannot service all of the complaints they have received and now legal and law protection costs are skyrocketing. This can not be allowed to continue so we need to know what you propose to bring about order.” Founder James Devons barked at her. Devons was one of the other six “founders” who formed the first company on Chiron when they had landed. There were only eight founders left since Morgan had bought the others shares out making him the single most powerful man with Morgan territory.

“Founder we are working on it. I have organized a new department to help organize health and recreational services for our workers. I fully expect that within a short time the workers will resume work and all will be as it was. Most importantly once the workers are back to building our habitat complex we concentrate on a purchasing a holo-theater from Morgan Industries and then we can add even more of their supply crawlers as well.” Alisa reported.

“Madame President I do not like what I am hearing. All I hear is “we need to buy this from Morgan and buy that from Morgan”. What are we selling to Morgan to make up for these purchases?” Founder Richers bellowed.

“Founder let me remind you our terrafoming operations are very profitable indeed. They constitute a fully half of our income currently. In time I can predict that terraforming will become an even greater source of income.”

“But every sector that Morgan’s crawlers take over the profits end up in his pocket not ours.” Founder Richers argued back.

“I agree so it is more important than ever that we expand. More workers will allow more sectors of land to be used for resources. It is that simple.” Stevens fired back.

Suddenly several other founders began to argue and then even more. Stevens eased herself back into her chair and wondered if Morgan had to deal with things like this. Perhaps it would be simpler to just get a job with him.

*~*~*~*

Great Western Sea, MY 2158

“Sir!” Full Human Warren Jones yelled as he ran into the cramped bridge of the UCS Unification.

Captain Hernandez Cappa-Three severed his link with his three fellow members of the Consciousness on the ship and turned his full attention to his junior officer.

“There’s a city on the horizon, right on the coast. It looks like a small settlement. All I know is that it definitely isn’t a member of the Consciousness!”

“Good work, Jones. Let’s go see,” the captain said. He could feel a rush of adrenaline, and the unfamiliar emotion of excitement. No doubt this was fueled by the adrenaline, but this was more than a mere physiochemical reaction. This was residual emotion breaking through his Consciousness-modified cerebral cortex. He stored the information for later analysis.

The two trotted to the bow of their modest ship. By now the entire crew knew since news travels fast on a small boat crewed by people who had known each other for over a decade. Everyone was straining to see, and speculating on who might be there. Would they be friendly? Or be able to give them a port of call, and a little real food! Just the thought of that made everyone’s mouth water. Their accommodations had been minimal and Spartan, to say the least.

As they got closer it was clear they had gotten the attention of a few people in the town. There were people standing on the shoreline, many of whom were waving.

The captain turned to his crew. “Make ready to go ashore. They don’t have a dock so get the skiff prepared. Jones, you and I will be going ashore. Keep the Unification safely outside of a reasonable field of fire. We can’t take any chances, and we don’t know if we will be received warmly or with hostility. Keep in mind that we’ve been separated for a long time, and every society changes, especially when they’re isolated. If we’re not back in or haven’t contacted you using standard protocol for first contact in six hours you’re to continue our mission. No attempt is to be made to attempt a rescue. Understood?”

Everyone nodded. They’d been preparing for this for a decade, and they weren’t about to mess this up now.

*~*~*~*

Aki heard the news and hastily assembled the Chancellors after news of first contact had been received from Unification. It took a short while to get quorum, but it took no time to decide to offer the Morganites a peace treaty and an offer of friendship. It was not entirely clear who the Morganites were, but the crew said they’d been received warmly and had gotten the communication channel to their leader Nwabudike Morgan. Aki and the rest of the Chancellors knew who he was, but it was not clear why he was on Unity. He should have been on now dead Earth.

After a short discussion Aki Zeta-Five drafted an official message to the other faction.

*~*~*~*

Dear Nwabudike Morgan and Morganite citizens,

We have been actively exploring for several decades in the hopes of finding other survivors from Unity and are pleased to have finally contacted other humans on Chiron. As your initial reports have undoubtedly told you, we are the Consciousness. Members of our society have elected to enhance our cognitive abilities by linking ourselves to the Program originally formulated by the late Prokhor Zakharov, who passed away a few decades ago.

The crew of our scout ship Unification has been warmly received by your citizens, and for this we thank you. Our aims are peaceful, and we believe that we have much to offer your people by way of trade. The Chancellery offers a treaty of friendship in the hopes of a greater understanding, and is open to trading technology. Our quick survey by our scout foil crew indicates we have much to offer your people, and the Consciousness Chancellors will entertain any technology trade your government may suggest.

With friendship,

Aki Zeta-Five
Chair, Consciousness Chancellery

*~*~*~*~*

Central boardroom of Morgan Enterprises, Morgan Industries Inc.- MORGAN 2158

“What do you mean they are not human?”

Everyone in the room was staring at Alisa Stevens in dismay. Since she was the most senior representative in the area she had conducted the negotiations.

“As I said they are not all human. Many of them have integrated technology into their bodies to augment themselves. Another aspect of this infusion of technology is that they are all linked into one cybernetic conscience. What one “unit” knows they all know.” Alisa finished.

“Wait a second.” Founder Devon interjected. “Are you telling me if one of these cyborgs as you called them goes into a holo-theater then all of the cyborgs share in that experience?”

“Yes, I do believe you are correct.” Alisa replied.

“Well this raised a whole new problem. How do we charge any of these cyborgs? Do we give them a flat rate for 10,000 or 20,00 cyborgs? I mean the copyright infringement laws are staggering!” Devon wailed in despair.

“Well Founder Devon I doubt that you will have to worry about it. These cyborgs did not seem interested in any of the pleasures we would normally partake of. They did not like any of the exotic food or drink we offered. They certainly did not want to participate in any of our holo-theater programs and when we showed them all of the unique luxury items we could offer they did not want even one of them.”

The room was deadly silent. Everyone was stunned. It was inconceivable to even consider not wanting a new food processor or network video monitor or a gaming device or a new clothes washing machine/dryer. Everyone in the room simply was dumbstruck.

“Alisa what do they want?” Morgan asked. “I have a communication from their leader, this Aki-Zeta woman. She has proposed a treaty which would include full economic exchange rights but if none of our luxury goods interest them what is there to offer them?”

“Director I would suggest technology.” Alisa stood up and walked to the far side of the room and activated a display. “I would suggest we start off with our files on establishing an industrial base. Plans to help them build simple factories and machining centers. In exchange we could certainly use plans on building recycling centers. Neither of these technologies have any offer any threatening military applications. I want to stress that point in that we still know very little about these cyborgs and it might be wise to tread slowly at first.”

Everyone in the room began to talk at once but Alisa could see that Morgan remained aloof from the others. He simply sat there and listened and thought. After about 10 minutes of debate Morgan stood up.

“I think Alisa has a good point and I think we should take a vote now. I am in support of this agreement she has laid out. I also would like to add that even though each of our corporations are free to develop any business ventures we can we should maintain a solid front when it comes to negotiations with the cyborgs as a whole. When needed we will meet as we are now and discuss and then vote as we would on any business contract put forward to us, is that acceptable?” Morgan said as he looked around the room.

For a few minutes the founders and Alisa discussed the proposal amongst themselves and then they nodded their heads in agreement.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++

Aki-Zeta,

I look forward to our future business ventures and I can only hope they will be mutually profitable for us both. I hope that your ships crew reported back to you on the fine treatment we lavished on them (at no charge of course). We understood the hardship they endured to reach us and of course it is important that we strengthen those bonds of economic friendship.

With that in mind I wish to offer you the following business proposal. We will send to you our files on establishing an industrial base and in return you could send us files on building recycling centers. If that is acceptable to you please indicate as such and I will have my assistants upload the files.

Once again I am very glad that we have found each other on this new planet. I look forward to a time that I can treat you to fine meal, an extravagant night of entertainment and top it off with an excellent brandy I have left over from Earth. Good business relations begin with good friendships!

I wish you a profitable day!

Director Nwabudike Morgan

CEO of Morgan Industries
President of Morgan Enterprises.

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2159

Director Morgan,

The Consciousness accepts your offer to trade Biogenetics for Industrial Base. Each of our societies will prosper with this exchange, and it is the desire of the Chancellery that further trades will be initiated in the near future. Initial review indicates that the Consciousness possesses four technologies that yours does not. One of these is the Secrets of the Human Brain, which is invaluable in defense against native life forms. We will trade this technology for the ability to enhance our economy, which your Morganite traders have indicated you have effected.

With friendship,
Aki Zeta-Five
Chair, Consciousness Chancellery

*~*~*~*

Aki sent the message and a sub unit of the Consciousness offered its analysis.

**Hop, hop….link activated**

((Data acquisition and reduction complete. Trade initiated at the six Cyborg cities that have the largest economy. Postulate: there are six Morganite cities with which trade is occurring.))

<
((High. Data are deductive, not reductive.))

<
((Assuming the postulate, this indicates that the Morganites have a substantially lower resource base than does the Consciousness. If base populations are at parity then the Morganite total population is likely to be half of the Consciousness.))

<
((Direct inspection of the known Morganite city indicates that they are using an advanced economic system not yet operational within the Consciousness. In addition, we currently get no economic benefit from Morganite-Cyborg trade; business dealings have benefited Morganite companies. Conclusion: Consciousness economic performance is inferior to that of the Morganites.))

<
**Link terminated**

*~*~*~*

Office of Nwabudike Morgan, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2159

“Do you think she is trying to trick us?”

Morgan looked around the room to see what his staff thought about the latest communication from the cyborg leader. It had mentioned something about technology to help defend against native life forms.

“We are at a loss too Director. We frequently harvest the fungus fields to make clothing, medicine and other products but never once has anything ever attacked us.” Morgan’s chief executive responded.

“Well people I find it hard to believe as well but she did seem sincere about the whole thing. However, it does not change the fact that the technology she is offering us, this trance protection for the mind is all but worthless to us. Perhaps there are alien life forms on this planet that attack humans but none have ever been found here so why would we trade for them.” Morgan replied as he made some notes on his P.A.D.

“Director perhaps we could request review the list of technologies she has and then compare them with our advanced industrial technologies to see what ones would be appropriate to trade.” Another aide suggested.

“Yes I thought of that as well so I contacted a few of our leading scientists here and got their opinion. They seemed to indicate that with the exception of the cyborgs advanced transportation capabilities the only technology they could offer would most likely be military technology. I for one don’t see any practical need for military technology at this time so all we are left with is the transportation technology. What complicates this issue is the fact that we would be trading advanced industrial technology for lesser technologies. I just don’t like those terms. Okay.” Morgan stood up. “Thank you all for coming today and I want your recommendations by the end of the day.”

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++

Aki-Zeta,

I was very happy to hear from you again so soon. I do hope that in time we can continue to build a strong and profitable relationship between our two enterprises. It is clear that we can both become more wealth and prosperous by working towards a greater goal.

I have reviewed your last communication and I did find it disturbing in some regards in that you mention native life forms. Ever since landing on Chiron we have never encountered any of this creatures you mentioned. Perhaps they live on only your lands? Be that as it may we would find little advantage in trading with you our files on advanced industrial engineering and production for a technology to defend ourselves against an attacker that we have never seen.

Of course, we would always be open to the proposal of selling technology to you for a fair market price. You now have our files for basic industrial production. We have files and specifications on the following two levels above that. We would be willing to sell you the second level technology for 200 mega credits and the third level technology for 300 mega credits.

We would also be willing to consider an exchange in which you could bundle several lesser technologies in exchange for an advanced one. We patent many of our technologies into levels so perhaps you could send us two level one technologies for one of our level two technologies.

Of course as good friends and good business people we would be willing and open to hear any proposal you have. I was interested to hear that not all of your people have opted into becoming cyborgs. I see from our current balance sheet that the sales of certain luxury items and services are of a great joy to many of your non-cyborg people. Let me reiterate that Morgan Industries and Unity Consortium stand by all of our products. We also expect that you will honor all of our patent agreements and not try to duplicate any of them. Such actions would constitute a grave infraction on our part. However, since we are all honorable business people we fully realize that you would never attempt such a thing.

With great respect and best wishes for a profitable day,

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2160

CEO Morgan,

Your people are fortunate not to have encountered native life forms. This past year a sea-going creature that is called a sealurk killed our garrison at Gamma Flats. In addition, our scout rover had encountered and destroyed two different forms of hostile native land-based life forms. One is called a mindworm, and the other a spoor launcher. The sea lurk and mindworm act on the same principal in that they paralyze their human victims, and then implant their young into the living body of the conscious but paralyzed host. The spoor launcher uses its caustic spoors to weaken and destroy what it determines is an enemy. These life forms are closely associated with the virulent xenofungus you may have notice near some of your bases. As a result of recent attacks the Consciousness is affecting an upgrade of our garrisons to include trance protection.

Your offers of technology trading are under advisement by the Consciousness. You will be informed of our decisions.

The exploration of Chiron by the Consciousness continues with the objective of finding other survivors of Unity. In keeping with your mercantilist example we may be willing to sell the communication link of any other survivors to your people for a suitable fee or form of compensation.

Aki Zeta-Five
Chair, Consciousness Chancellery

	11-07-2004 17:47									#10
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Office of Director Morgan, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2160

“Damn them to hell is what I say!”

Everyone in the room remained very quiet as Morgan slammed his fist again on the table.

“Let me get this straight.” Morgan looked at City Manager Williams. “These aliens that look like a cross between a crab and an insect pulled into your harbor and threatened to blow your city to pieces if you did not give them technology. So you gave them our files on advanced computer systems and then they broke that agreement and threatened you again if you did not give them the files our files on advanced industrial automation machinery!”

“Yes Director that sums it up in a nut shell. The captain assigned to Morgan Entertainment Inc. assured me that these impact weapons would make mincemeat out of his troops if they attacked and their ship was full of soldiers or whatever they call those creatures.” Williams replied apologetically.

Morgan shook his head in disgust.

“Is there not a single faction on this planet that understands a business deal? I have these half human machines on one hand and on the other aliens from another world! What next? Giant jellyfish? How is a man expected to make a dime, an honest living on this world when you haven’t a clue as to what makes them tick let alone what they like.” Morgan slumped back into his chair.

“Director I think we should inform the cyborgs that just to our north those aliens are patrolling the area. Just as a matter of courtesy. We could even offer them the aliens communication frequency for a price, perhaps even as an exchange for one of their technologies? I think the cyborgs have technical blueprints on advanced energy weapons. At least with those we could arm our troops and perhaps defend ourselves better.” Morgan’s assistant Joshua Martin said as he wrote something in his P.A.D.

Morgan looked up and nodded. “Yes, warn the cyborgs about the aliens and then see if they would trade a level one technology for the communication frequency. I at least want to get something out of this disaster. Why threaten us? We could have made a trade I am sure that would have benefited both of our peoples or whatever those things are. Then to add salt to our wounds they go on about how unfair our society is. The nerve of those creatures to lecture us!”

“Director what if they want more?” Another executive asked quietly.

“Well what choice do we have we will have to give it to them wont we!” Morgan said in disgust. “All I can hope at this point is that their ship will capsize and the fish eat them or something. I am sure my stocks are taking a beating over this. James?” Morgan looked over at a young man seated in the rear. “Inform my brokers to begin hedging on all my funds and hold the line as best they can. Minimize the losses as best they can and I will run over the exchange when we are done here to talk to the President of the exchange.”

“Yes Director.”

“Well, I suppose we might have to get into the arms business after all. I still don’t believe this Aki-Zeta and her wild stories about worms and sea monsters. But I suppose until this morning I did not believe in aliens so who knows?” Morgan stood up. “Okay lets get to work. I want a planning session and market research done within a week as to the best way to turn this to our advantage. If we need to start making weapons then by God Morgan Industries will be the one that makes them and then sells them for the highest profit possible. I also want a marketing research team put together to try and find out what makes these aliens “tick” we need to gain some leverage if possible. Okay lets get moving people!”

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2161

CEO Morgan,

The Consciousness thanks you for your warning about the hostile aliens that have threatened your people. Our patrol ship Unification is heading north along your western coast, and it would be unfortunate if they were to run into any hostile forces. At this time they are ill equipped to deal with a confrontation

Your offer to trade the communication frequency of the aliens for our files on Applied Physics has been reviewed by the Consciousness and, after careful deliberation, declined. We would be willing to exchange our files, which hold the key to basic weaponry and the potential for higher order weaponry, for your files on Industrial Automation. We offer this as a service between friends in the hopes that we may achieve parity in dealing with those who are hostile to our interests.

The Consciousness also is interested in trading world map files. As you know, we have explored a considerable portion of Chiron, and our analyses of your faction have inferred that you have explored relatively little. However, in view of the aliens that have shown you ill will the Consciousness is willing to grant you the better deal in this exchange since our files are much more extensive than yours are likely to be.

If these deals are of interest to you please forward the information, pre-approved. The Consciousness will respond in kind.

With friendship,
Aki Zeta-Five

*~*~*~*

Director Morgan’s Office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2161

Aki-Zeta,

I am somewhat mystified by your response to my proposal. First let me be clear that we reject your counter offer and I would like to explain why. In our society everything thing, object, person, idea and invention carries with it a value. In fact, our central exchange board has a vast department of independent auditors that asses values on everything so that every party in an exchange has full trust an faith that the service, object or idea he is buying is verified. For example, a laborer in our society is paid for the work he can do and no more while one of our top financial brokers who is responsible for thousands of credits is worth a much higher value. This same principal is applied to technology. As I stated earlier we have designated all technology with a level of hierarchy based on the importance of that technology in relation to other technologies. We do not place any greater value on a “level 2” technology versus another level 2 technology but rather we look at them as equals. For example the files we traded you last turn were for blueprints to build a basic industrial structure. We have developed two additional levels of industrial technology based on that first level. Each additional level of specifications and designs adds a great deal more industrial capacity to your society.

With that said I would entertain the exchange of our files on advanced industrial production and supply crawlers, which we classify as a level three technology in exchange for three level 1 technologies or a mixture of level two and level one’s.

It is simple inconceivable to us to accept any arrangement other that what we have laid out to you. Now if you have a level three technology you would like to exchange with us then perhaps we can work out a fair exchange for our highly advanced industrial supply crawlers files and plans.

We are willing to accept an equal exchange of map files but that is a separate matter entirely. Once again we would view any “map” file exchange as the same regardless as to how much territory we might or might not have explored. There might be special objects or ruins that we know of that might be of interest to you.

As for the aliens communication frequency we can either sell it to you for 50 mega-credits or exchange it for a map file or a level one technology. We will accept any of these as forms of payment.

Once again you have to understand that Morgan Enterprises must maintain a profitable approach to every avenue of our lives so that our stockholders trust us with the management of our society.

Once again we thank you for doing business with us.

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2162

CEO Morgan,

The map files of the Consciousness are attached, pre-approved. Attach yours and the data transfer will be complete.

Your analysis of technological advancement is illogical and incorrect. One technological advance is predicated on previous advancements, but the cost of the research effort of that advancement is proportional to the cumulative number of advancements your faction has achieved, not the level of that technology’s progression. Therefore, there is no implicit value of a technology of a certain progression verses another; rather, the value is in what that technology does for your society. To illustrate, the cost in research effort for the sixth breakthrough your society were to make is the same regardless of what that specific technology may be. In your case it could be Industrial Automation, or it could be Doctrine: Flexibility: it makes no difference. The Consciousness strongly recommends you take this matter up with your scientists. They will confirm our analysis.

It is unfortunate you have been unwilling to continue trading with us to advance both of our technological understanding. This is particularly mystifying since your people are under direct threat of attack by seemingly hostile aliens, and even so are willing to let your ideology stand in the way of a better defense. Moreover, our sources indicate you have given the very technologies that are desired by the Consciousness to the aliens as tribute in the hopes that you will avoid attack. Historically such a Faustian bargain has been short lived unless the weaker party ameliorates the situation. By denying yourself technology available from friendly sources you may put your people in undue hardship.

Perhaps you will reconsider. Others reportedly have technology that would benefit the Consciousness, and if the Morganites are unwilling to do business then perhaps others may.

If you are unwilling to trade technology then the Consciousness may be willing purchase the communication frequency to the hostile aliens. We await your decision.

With friendship,
Aki Zeta-Five, Chair
Consciousness Chancellery

*~*~*~*

Aki closed the holo imager with some regret. It was clear that Morgan was not going to be a great friend of the Consciousness, which was illogical since they could have much in common and like goals.

Then again there was Chairman Yang. He had been more than forthcoming, and had asked to trade technology with the Consciousness. In giving the Hive the secrets to Biogenetics, Doctrine: Flexibility, and Information Networks the Consciousness had gained Doctrine: Loyalty, High Energy Chemistry, and Industrial Economics. With these technologies they could now build command centers to improve their troops, plasma armor, and switch to a market economy, if that suited the Consciousness’ purposes. Chairman Yang had been his old controlled self, but had become almost enthusiastic at the prospect of bringing benefit to his people, which was a concept that was apparently alien to the CEO.

It was his loss. The CEO had little to offer the Consciousness, which now had a magnanimous friend in the Hive. The only thing CEO Morgan would get out of this situation was a much enhanced world map, courtesy of the Hive. The Consciousness had purchased their map for Progenitor Psych, and now Morgan would likely get it for free.

It was a taste of what he was missing, and of missed opportunities.

*~*~*~*

Director Morgan’ office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2162

Aki-Zeta,

I cannot agree more with your statement and I quote from your last communication “there is no implicit value of a technology of a certain progression verses another; rather, the value is in what that technology does for your society”. It is clear to us that you fully understand our stance in this regard and our policy. If we were to trade our most advanced industrial files to you why shouldn’t we expect something of equal technological parity that WE consider of VALUE to our society? For instance would you consider it a fair trade if you were to exchange your most advanced computer systems for flintlock weapons, obviously not? You would want something of comparable value that YOUR society perceives as equal. It might have taken you and your trading partner the same amount of “comparable” resource and time and effort to develop each technology but even a child of five knows when something is fair or unfair. In addition, the value of any technology is relative to the needs of a society and I think you would agree with us on this point as well. Simple laser weapons do us no good against the aliens more powerful weapons so why would I trade our most advanced files for something that is useless to us? Now as I have said and will say again and again if you can bundle several technologies together then you make the entire package more palatable to us then we might have something to discuss. As I have repeatedly illustrated we are more than willing to exchange any one “level” of technology for another “like” level or a combination of technologies that equal that level. So perhaps now that we have come to terms on this issue we can discuss a possible exchange of technological files. As I have repeatedly said we will exchange our advanced industrial automation systems for any “like” level of technology. Or you may purchase it from us for the sum of 300 mega credits. Or you may offer three level one technologies in exchange for one level three or a combination of level one and level two technologies. You have also expressed a desire for the alien’s communication frequency. You may have the frequency in exchange for any of the following: 50 mega credits, another faction’s communication’s frequency or a level one technology. As soon as you indicate which payment you wish to make we will upload the frequency to you along with our thanks for doing business with us.

As to the threat from the aliens it is of concern to any good business. Disruption of services and the allocation of vital resources into unprofitable weapon systems would make any sane person recoil in horror. The aliens have far more advanced military technology than we do. To fight them would be suicide so we opted for the best possible solution we could find. It was not the most desirable solution but no blood was shed and production continued. With that being said we most certainly would like to enforce an equitable peace between the aliens and us but since we lack advanced weapon systems that makes it difficult. I also find it difficult to achieve such parity when you would have us trade our most advanced technology for simple laser weapons. What good would it do us? The alien’s weapons would still be many times more powerful and we would have lost yet another competitive edge and gained nothing. So unless you have a weapon system of equal strength to combat the alien’s weapons we will give them whatever they wish until we can stand against them. The consensus of our top business advisors all agree that it is better to keep the aliens at peace with us and possibly preserve a future market rather than antagonizing them which would in the end get us nothing.

Lastly if there are other survivors from the Unity disaster and they wish to make unprofitable trades then so be it. If a fool wishes to be parted from his money then there is little that I would do or can do to stop them. If you can strike a bargain with those survivors in whom you gain valuable high-level technology for base line technology then you are a shrewd business lady indeed. Both my business partners and myself will not part with our advanced files for bottom of the basement technology. Regardless of any threat actual or imaginary the bottom line is that there must be a positive balance sheet involved. To walk away from sound business practices just to save a few peoples lives is not a very good business plan.

Best regards,

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2163

CEO Morgan,

As you may have noticed in our map files, we recently made contact with Chairman Yang of the Hive. Our recent negotiation for technology with the Hive has resulted in the transfer of a number of technologies to the Consciousness. One of these may be of interest to you: High Energy Chemistry. Not only will this allow armor fifty percent more effective than synthmetal, but it will also allow you to arm nerve gas weaponry, if you are so inclined. I think you will agree that a city defended with plasma armor with its defenders advantage and a sensor to support their efforts will stand up well against alien impact weaponry. I have included this technology in this transmission, and will accept Industrial Automation in return. If you are uninterested then the Consciousness will not bring up the issue again.

With friendship,
Aki Zeta-Five

	23-08-2004 08:00									#11
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	13-05-2005 16:43									#12
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Office of Nwabudike Morgan, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2163

Aki-Zeta,

I have a counteroffer for your review. We recently made a marvelous breakthrough in genetic engineering that when applied to our Chiron hybrids the result was a fantastic increase in crop production! What I would like to offer is the following: I would exchange our files on advanced biogenetics and in turn you will send us the files on plasma armor AND the communication frequency for Chairman Yang. I would also like to include the following proposal for your review as well. Since you did not make any response to my offer for the alien’s communication frequency I propose the following: I will send you their communication frequency in exchange for your files on building land speeders. I think our offer is fair and balanced and it provides for great value for both parties. I am glad that we have at last cleared up our issue as to the “value” of technology. A gallon of water might weigh as much and it might have taken the same amount of labor to process it and prepare it as a cup of gold but in the desert that gallon of water is far more valuable than the gold. Value and exchanges are all relative to the needs and situation at that time. That is what is so exciting about this entire process and the wonderful world of business. Of course, I would never take advantage of another factions misfortune just to line my pockets just like I believe that you want to help my people by agreeing to my trade so that we gain valuable defensive technology to help defend our cities without taking advantage of our weakness, right? It was our timely warning that alerted your ship captain of impending danger to the north and we did so at no charge to you! A sign of a true friend!

I think in light of our good relations I feel this is an appropriate package that will offer great benefit for your people and will help bolster our safety. The drastic and immediate impact of our genetic engineering is monumental and will help feed your cyborgs and expand your cities without straining your infrastructure even more. I think the “value” of biogenetics speaks for itself and when compared with what we are asking for is more than fair.


I hope you take the time to fully consider our offer. I regret that I don’t have any of the less complex technologies to trade with you but I have asked my marketing and research staff to look into it. In the meanwhile I only have these highly advanced technologies to trade with so I hope that you fully understand the situation I am in and have sympathy for our current status.

Once again Aki-Zeta it is good talking with you and I do hope that you will see that my double exchange will gain you great profit!

Yours truly,

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++

Morgan turned off the holo-cam and eased himself back into his chair. It was clear this Aki-Zeta was as stubborn as an old mule. He blamed himself for not seeing the problem earlier in that how could a machine evaluate correctly the monetary value of another machine. To a machine another machine was just that, a machine, it performed a function and nothing else. He hoped that Aki-Zeta would agree to this trade but he still had reservations. The hope was that the immediate impact of bioengineering would be of such “value” to the cyborgs that they might agree to his deal. Once he contacted Yang they could set-up trade agreements and increase the trade surplus even more. Profits were going down as more infrastructure was built and that was not good. They needed more outlets for markets and the trade that came with them. Perhaps it might be time to contact the aliens again to see if they could be persuaded to agree to a deal. It was certainly in their advantage to work with humans and it just made good sense, good business sense.

*!*!*!*

Alpha Prime, MY 2164

CEO Morgan,

The Consciousness agrees with the value of your advance in genetic engineering, and has approved the transfer of our files on High Energy Chemistry in trade for this advance. However, the Consciousness was conflicted on the subject of adding the communication frequency to this trade. This indecision resulted in a rare tie breaking vote by the Chancellery, and this group of Full Humans, Cyborgs, and members of the Consciousness voted down this portion of the trade. Therefore, the Consciousness has approved the direct transfer of your files for High Energy Chemistry. Additional trades will be considered at the time of the offer.

Your offer to trade the communication frequency of the hostile aliens for our files on Doctrine: Mobility is rejected. There is no benefit to the Consciousness at this point in our development in contacting a hostile force. And, it is likely we will meet these very aliens as we continue to explore Chiron.

Aki Zeta-Five
Chair, Consciousness Chancellery

*~*~*~*

Alien ruins, Morgan Science Park Inc. – MORAN 2164

“Who made this thing? Was it the aliens we encountered a few turns ago?”

“Director I don’t believe it could have been the aliens you mentioned. It would have taken a civilization of massive proportions to build this device.” Chief researcher Dr. Alex Samuels replied as he walked alongside Morgan.

The two of them had been walking for nearly an hour amongst the ruins of the ancient device. Behind them in a small knot were Morgan’s business associates and several of the scientists from the research center that was recently opened among the ruins.

“Well what is it Doctor?” Morgan asked in frustration.

“As best we can tell it is a communication device or energy transfer system or both. We really do not know. All I can tell you Director is that it will most likely help us unlock many secrets of science which could have direct benefits for us.” Samuels replied enthusiastically.

“How so?” Morgan replied with an edge of disbelief in his voice.

“Well every where we look we find writings carved into this device. Some of the writings are still undecipherable while others are. We have found a chart of periodic elements that list 15 elements that we had no knowledge of. Others are pure mathematical formulas. In time, we should be able to apply a great deal of this information to practical applications such as energy devices and more advanced communication and computer technology.” Samuels explained in detail.

“Well how soon can I see results? These cyborgs have been extremely stubborn in reaching any negotiated settlement with us for the exchange of technology. If I cannot work out a deal with them to advance our science then it falls on your shoulders to make up for that gap in technology.” Morgan said in a very irritated manner.

“We can do our best Director but you have to understand this is a pure research facility it will be up to the lads in the marketing and products development labs to apply or information to improve our society.” Samuels said quickly.

Morgan said nothing more as he continued to walk down an alley way filled with alien monoliths and devices. It was all so intriguing on one level and yet where was the profit? He knew deep down that the doctor was right but the jump from pure research to applied science was always “problematic” at times. What irritated Morgan more is the Cyborgs and that irritation continued to color his perception of everything else? They cyborgs had continued to be engaging on one level and yet at another level it was as if they wanted their relationship to fail. At one point they ask for the aliens communication frequency and then they say they don’t require it. The cyborgs on one hand say that information is all equal and when they are offered a simple trade for a communication frequency for a technology they refuse. Morgan knew he would wear them down eventually but it was frustrating to be sure. On one level they seemed to understand that some information was of greater value since they deemed that the communication frequency with the aliens was not as valuable as technology but then reject his generous offer of a gene splicing for one lesser technology and a communication frequency. So far trade relations with any of the factions had been poor indeed. The end result was a stagnation effect on the Morgan economic system. More markets had to be opened and that had to be Morgan’s first priority.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++


Aki-Zeta,

I am at a loss! What more can I do to make this offer attractive enough to agree to? Already my business associates are hounding me for the lack of profit in this exchange and yet you seem to have no sympathy for my plight! I suppose I find it difficult in this regard since I thought we had an understanding as to the word “value” when it applies to technology and other information. It is obvious that you feel that the communication frequency for the aliens is of a “lesser value” when compared to a level-1 technology since you have reject my offer. Yet you agree that gene splicing is highly desirable and beneficial but fail to see the important value in this technology as compared to what we ask in return?

So we will continue to work on this agreement until such a time as we can find common ground. I for one feel that these continued negotiations open up new vistas for us both. So for now let us examine just one possible deal. You mentioned in previous communiqués you interest in the alien’s communication frequency and then you now claim it is of no interest to you or should I more correctly use your own words, and I quote, “There is no benefit to the Consciousness at this point in our development in contacting a hostile force.” You use the term benefit but it is clear you have assigned a value to this information so perhaps you could inform me as to what value you equate this information to in relation to credits or technology or any other information? It would help me greatly to understand your concept of value so that I might be able to offer an appropriate package for this exchange.

The key point to this exercise and I hope you already see what I am driving at and that is a common currency by which we can rate exchanges. It is clear you assign value to technology and information, as do we so I need a greater appreciation of which you value one important technology over another. It seems clear you are very interested in gene splicing but what would you equate it too when compared to energy credits?

I hope that you and your fellow cyborgs take the time to fully appreciate the rare event that is before and fully work to achieve a greater understanding of the business exchange we have proposed.

With my most warmed regards,

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

*~*~*~*

[b]Alpha Prime, MY 2165

The Consciousness has received and approved your last offer to trade our files on High Energy Chemistry for Gene Splicing and the communication frequency for the hostile aliens. As stated previously, the Consciousness does not see significant value, to use your terminology, in communication with the hostile aliens. We do understand the significance of your technology, and the great defensive value that High Energy Chemistry will offer yours. Your offer is equitable, as amended.

Consciousness scientists surprised the Chancellery by announcing a breakthrough in Nonlinear Mathematics. Upon review this will allow offensive weaponry that is twice as effective as our previous advance in Applied Physics. Given your proximity to the hostile aliens it is clear to the Consciousness that this technology will allow your people to defend their territory aggressively. Moreover, this offensive technology combined with the defensive abilities of plasma armor of High Energy Chemistry will give you the tools to ensure the safety of your people, given appropriate investment in defensive and offensive armaments. Given this ‘value’, to again use your terminology, it seems clear that this technology is at least equal to your advance in Industrial Automation. This is particularly true since you lack the prerequisite technology of Applied Physics, and since it appears your scientists are not concentrating on offensive and defensive weaponry as a research priority. Hence, it will be a considerable period of time before you can develop this ability for yourselves. During this time you will be vulnerable to the predations of the aliens.

To ensure clarity for future correspondence, the Consciousness rejects your association of technology ‘level’. This is a non sequitur and is not recognized as a valid argument. As such, please refrain from such postulates in future communication.

With friendship,
Aki Zeta-Five
Chair, Consciousness Chancellery

*~*~*~*

Office of Director Morgan, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2165

“She must be loony!”

Morgan threw the P.A.D. across the table and it skidded off the far side and hit one of Morgan’s administrative assistants.

“She honestly believes that I would agree to trade not only gene splicing and the communication frequency for the aliens for just one technology!” Morgan sputtered. “Are we sure they even understand our language anymore? I mean, what the hell does “non-sequitur” and “valid argument” have to do with my proposal! It’s like talking to a computer. When did I ever mention “levels” in my last communication? I just don’t get these people at all. One minute they ask for the communication frequency and then the next turn they say it is worthless. Right?”

Several of Morgan’s aides bobbed their heads in agreement.

“Well, that’s it!” Morgan stood up. “I am fed up with it to hear!” Morgan gestured with his hand just under his chin. “These damn robots are a insane. Now they want us to arm ourselves and antagonize the aliens even further. That just takes the cake! We gave them what they wanted and they went away. It is pure and simple economics. Even with plasma armor, impact weapons and good fortifications it would be a blood bath. Why risk it now? Lets just keep building as quickly as we can, improve our society, expand business and increase profits and let the fighting for someone else. We should only get involved if we have no other choice and we don’t need to antagonize the aliens by arming ourselves.”

“Sir, you know they might be right.” One of the aides questioned. “If we did have armor and better weapons then we simply could have denied the aliens the technology.”

“And then what you idiot!” Morgan yelled. “They come back and land troops and burn buildings and on and on and on. Who wins then? I see no reason to antagonize the aliens more than we have. Let sleeping dogs lay I always say. I know this scenario very well and I made billions from it on Earth so I am not about to become its victim and let Aki-Zeta make all the profit.”

“Well sir it does set a bad precedent. What if the Cyborgs were to demand technology? They now have plasma armor and these impact weapons and with those they could easily storm our cities as well.” The aide questioned.

“Yes they could but they won’t. I know these people and pure aggression is not in them. When is the last time your toaster or microwave attacked you?” Morgan looked around and no one said a word. “Like I said they won’t attack.”

Morgan walked over to a large table along the wall of his office and poured himself a drink. Everyone remained quiet. Morgan took a long drink of the whiskey and then turned around. “If we start arming ourselves with weapons things will just escalate. I have seen it before because I was part of it. Now these Cyborgs are trying it on me. Playing on our fears of the aliens to get us to trade valuable technology for guns. Well it won’t happen under my tenure as director.”

Morgan walked back over to his desk and sat back down and then pulled the vid-camera over to him and turned it on.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++

Aki-Zeta,

It seems you failed to get my last communiqué in its complete format so I will have my associates resend it to you. I did not offer gene splicing and the alien’s communication frequency for just your files on plasma armor. What I did want to know is what you would be willing to trade for JUST the communication frequency?

I am also unclear when you seem to be chastising us about using levels. I have used that term once or twice but I think the operative word in all of my offers has been: VALUE! The VALUE of gene-splicing in our opinion is worth at least one technology and the communication frequency for Chairman Yang. I think that is why I left the offer on the table and I fear that is what you failed to understand.

So I will now be very clear and to the point so that we can establish a trade. First, I will offer to send you the alien’s communication frequency in exchange AND ONLY THE ALIEN’S COMMUNICATION FREQUENCY for ___________________ (PLEASE FILL IN THE BLANK!)

If nothing is returned then we will “clearly” understand you hold NO value for this information.

I hope that you can grasp the concept of “value”. Value can be defined by many versions but for this situation we will establish a “definition” for VALUE as follows. VALUE what is of importance to the survival of a faction that will aide it to prosper and grow. At any one turn or any one-day the “value” of a technology is relative to the needs of that society.

As of right now the aliens have left us alone. They are not threatening us. So we see no value in exchanging our non-violent, progressive technology for violent and non-progressive technology. With the added nutrients we have been able to harvest Morgan Enterprises is expanding. Weapons and armor do nothing for us. It is that simple. So we “value” gene splicing far more than weapons and armor. This does not have anything to do with “levels” but everything to do with value. You seem to value your armor and weapons systems as much as gene splicing and industrial automation. While we on the other hand value gene splicing and industrial automation on a far greater scale when compared to your offensive and defensive technology. Perhaps in time we can seek a common ground in this regard. Perhaps circumstances will force one or both of us to re-evaluate our positions and alter our perceived value of these technologies. Only time will tell.

So for now please fill out the above questionnaire and return it to me.

Sincerely,

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

	13-05-2005 16:44									#13
	Support Apolyton, buy Alpha Centauri

Alpha Prime, MY 2166

Aki Zeta-Five and the rest of the Chancellery viewed CEO Morgan’s latest missive for at third time.

“He seems rather…emotional,” First Chancellor Ryan Gamma-Four stated. “Notice how he uses frequent repetition, and how his voice pitch rises and increases in volume when he repeats the word ‘Value’ over and over.

Rebecca Whinn squirmed in her seat. “He’s frustrated,” she explained. “He is trying to be understood, and failing. It’s likely he’s frustrated at us for not understanding his messages, and also for not agreeing to what he considers reasonable proposals.”

Aki Zeta-Five looked at the Full Human Whinn. “But they are not reasonable.”

“To us they are not reasonable, but not to him. I’m sure he thinks he is giving us a terrific bargain,” she continued.

“But they are not,” Ryan Gamma-Four interjected.

“I know that,” Rebecca stated. Her voice was tired. She had explained this several times. “But he doesn’t think so. I know you have a hard time understanding how Full Humans can take a statement so personally, but try to remember. All of you were Full Humans once, even if it was long ago. We will have to try to communicate on his level, and try to use his terminology. It is clear he does not use a clear and direct scientific speech pattern, nor does he offer clear proposals. He assumes that we think like he does. His thought patters are intuitive, and not logical.”

“And that is an error,” Aki said.

Rebecca smiled. “Yes. Yes it is, and it means we will have a hard time even talking to each other. If the Chancellery agrees I will offer a reply, and the Chancellery can review and approve it before we send it to the Morganites. Agreed?”

“Agreed,” Aki added quickly.

To Rebecca it seemed like she was almost relieved, if she had such an emotion.

*~*~*~*~*~*

CEO Morgan,

It is clear that we are not communicating effectively. The Consciousness understands your concept of value, but the Consciousness does not value technologies or other intellectual property in the same way as your society. For the sake of mutual understanding the Consciousness offers the following clarifications:

1) The Consciousness assigns no value to the communication frequency of the hostile aliens, and is not willing to trade any technology or intellectual information in exchange for this information. We have already met with a group of aliens who call themselves the Caretakers. It is possible these are the aliens with which you have made contact.

2) The Consciousness sees considerable value in your technology of Gene Splicing, and is willing to trade the single technology of High Energy Chemistry or Nonlinear Mathematics for this advance. The Consciousness understands that these technologies are of different application but equal worth.

3) The Consciousness sees considerable value in your technology of Industrial Automation, and is willing to trade the single technology of High Energy Chemistry or Nonlinear Mathematics for this advance. The Consciousness understands that these technologies are of different application but equal worth.

4) At this time the Consciousness is not willing to trade the intellectual property of the communication frequency to the Hive to the Morganites under the terms offered to date. The Consciousness has invested heavily in exploration, and has sacrificed the ability to engage in a more aggressive free market economic model to do so. This investment means that this intellectual property has great value to the Consciousness, and that this value must be reciprocated in kind if a trade is to be accepted by the Consciousness.

The Consciousness Chancellery hopes these explanations and clarifications will lead to a greater understanding between our peoples.

Signed,
Consciousness Chancellery

*~*~*~*

Director Morgan’s office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2166

Consciousness Chancellery,

Once again I am puzzled by your response. For the greater part of your response you clearly illustrate your deeply held conviction that all technology is of equal value regardless of the immediate impact it has on your society or of the needs of your society. Though I find this position simplistic and highly unimaginative it seems I am unable to convince you that in the market world that all items, information and people have differing values and exchange rates.

Yet in the last area you cover you clearly indicate that your position of the Hive communication frequency is of such great value that you would be unwilling to exchange it. In fact, if I understand you correctly you basically believe that nothing Morgan Enterprises has can even match the “sacrifice” you have made to achieve it. I find this statement in conflict with your previous statements.

I have decided to be blunt and straightforward with you and propose the following. First I will exchange our files on gene-splicing and industrial automation for the following: doctrine mobility, plasma armor, defensive systems structures and impact weapons. This is the last time I will offer this proposal to you. I will now explain my proposal. First, it is in your best interest to make this trade and you know it is. By giving us the tools to defend our cities we will no longer have to submit to the aliens threats of attack. All of these technologies will allow us to create a creditable defensive force that will insure our security. It is of greater value to you to have Morgan Enterprises strong and secure rather than a weak target and easy prey for the aliens to attack.

We are merchants pure and simple and fighting on any level is too terrible for us to even imagine. Our military forces, what little we have, are hardly trained or equipped to handle any invasion force. So with that being said it is of greater “long term value” to the Conciseness to have a strong and defendable ally to the north.

I would be willing to hear from you as to any slight modification you would like to make to this proposal but what I have laid out is very clear. I would not entertain any major modifications to this agreement. I feel and so do the board of directors that our proposal might seem “lopsided” in our favor the long-term benefit to the Conscience is incalculable.

Lastly, as a result of this arrangement I would like to propose the following. That the Cybernetic Conscience and Morgan Enterprises form a “pact” or an alliance. With this alliance we will secure a peaceful coexistence and increase our mutual trust and understanding of each other.

Once again I wish you much profit this year,

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2167

CEO Morgan,

The Consciousness is pleased that our positions are now clearly understood. Regretfully it seems that our societies value our intellectual assets differently and that negotiations for an exchange are at an impasse. We are willing to entertain offers for an exchange in the future, but at this time your offers are not acceptable.

After careful review the Consciousness had decided to decline your generous offer of a Pact. It is clear to the Consciousness that our societies have some shared goals, but are so different that simple technology exchanges are not possible. Our current relationship is one sided, with all of the commercial benefits being accrued by your people, and this situation is likely to be exacerbated if we were to Pact. This economic imbalance is likely due to your society’s obvious talent for economic gain, and as a result of your likely free market economic system. It is also the result of your application of a societal bend toward Wealth, enabled by the technology Industrial Automation, a trade for which we cannot reach agreement. This is perplexing to us since we have made many trades with the economically backward and repressive Hive, and that these trades have provided significant benefits for both our peoples. Your society refused these basic exchanges, resulting in those benefits going to the Hive instead of your people. This is antithetical to your self-interest, and therefore illogical to the Consciousness.

We wish you well in your economic pursuits, and good fortune in your dealings with the aliens.

With friendship,
Aki Zeta-Five
Chair, Consciousness Chancellery

*~*~*~*

Main boardroom, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2167

“Could they be socialists?”

“It’s hard to tell Director. If you read their reply carefully it certainly seems that way. I mean if you look at this part here and I quote, “Our current relationship is one sided, with all of the commercial benefits being accrued by your people, and this situation is likely to be exacerbated if we were to Pact. This economic imbalance is likely due to your society's obvious talent for economic gain, and as a result of your likely free market economic system.” It seems like they are accusing us of some terrible thing because we are an industrious people. I am not sure if we will ever be able to make any trades so long as they feel that economically they should be our equal.” Alisa Stevens commented. She looked up at Morgan who was sitting quietly now watching the stock ticker on his desk. “Nwabudike the board of directors supported your call to end discussions with the cyborgs. Why I even supported your work as much as it pained me to you did all anyone could.”

Morgan sat quietly for a few more minutes. Then stood up and walked over to get a drink from his bar. He poured himself a large sifter of brandy and then looked back over his shoulder at Alisa with a raised eyebrow. She nodded yes and Morgan poured a glass for her and then walked back and put both glasses on the table.

“You know Alisa I just don’t understand these Cyborgs at all. I thought I did so many times but they kept shifting their demands almost every turn. I mean I have it here in writing and on holo-tape that they wanted the aliens’ communication frequency and then they didn’t. They fully acknowledge the power of gene-splicing and the great and immediate benefits it provides and yet they want me to give it away for some plans on speeders or laser weapons as if either one of them will feed a child or help construct a factory or farm.” Morgan lamented as he picked up his drink and took a sip.

“Director you shouldn’t beat yourself about this. They are almost as alien as the actual aliens that showed up at our docks that fateful day. I think it is clear that they believe in some socialist like agenda. I mean they do use collective a lot in their replies when they refer to their society. I think it is clear that they view everything as equal. How that is possible I don’t know but it disgusts me.” Alisa picked up her glass and downed the entire contents in one gulp. Her face turned red for a second and she let out a slow sigh. “Now I don’t care what they say about their collective but I wouldn’t give that up for all the tea in China.”

Both Morgan and Alisa laughed.

“Yes I suppose you are right. It is hard for anyone of us to truly understand a people that are not motivated by the simple pursuits of pleasure, ambition and luxury. I mean how do you know where you stand with someone if they are willing to actually do things regardless of rewards.” Morgan said as he finished off his drink.

“Yes I did notice in your last attempt at negotiations you tried to appeal to their apparent need to seek equality. But it failed, I don’t think I could have played it better myself. So where do go from him?” Alisa asked.

“We continue our own research efforts. We are averaging a breakthrough every eleven turns so I am not too concerned over our lack of technology. Other factions will come and visit us soon and when they do we will establish trade relations with them. We will soon complete our own research into ship design and then we will find our own trading partners as well. I see no reason to panic at this time. We are building crawlers and terraformers and infrastructure at good rates and we are still expanding. As long as we can avoid any conflicts we should be a okay.” Morgan replied as he stood up and motioned for Alisa to join him. “lets go get some dinner. I have a fine steak meal in mind and then we can go watch the newest holo-vid. I have one last idea to put to the Cyborgs to see if they will bite and I want to think it through while we eat a great meal and enjoy a good holo.”

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++

Aki-Zeta,

It is clear that you lack any of the advanced business knowledge and experience that the youngest child in a Morgan Educational Unit Inc. receives. Please do not take this comment as derogatory but I mean to simple say that we lack a common language of understanding.

I have one last offer to make. I would like to purchase the service of your Cyborg soldiers to protect our cities. We currently have seven Morgan/Unity cities and we will have two more built soon. If you will garrison one plasma/impact trained infantry unit at each of our cities we will reimburse you one technology of your choosing. However, in order to do this we would have to complete a “pact” or alliance. Now I know you have rejected my offer but I want you to reconsider it.

You would be required to complete the garrisoning of our cities within a decade. We can negotiate a longer time period if that is required. Each Cyborg garrison would be required to protect the city and surrounding territory from any attack.

In addition, Morgan Enterprises will compensate the Cyborgs each turn the sum of 4 mega credits for upkeep and maintenance of your troops.

I think this is a handsome offer and it seems you Cyborgs have a keen knack for the arts of war so why not put those talents to use and make some cash from it?

Of course I would be free to entertain any counter-offer you have.

With warmest regards,

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

	13-05-2005 16:45									#14
	Support Apolyton, buy Alpha Centauri

Alpha Prime, MY 2168

CEO Morgan,

Your request for Cyborg assistance in your military defense is intriguing. However, it will require a significant investment in transports in addition to the troops themselves, and will divert investment in required infrastructure. At the present time we are prototyping a plasma rover defensive and impact rover, and after they are complete we will construct a basic defensive cordon with an offensive reaction force. When our defense is complete we will revisit your request. Of prime concern is the unrest that will occur when Cyborg troops are stationed in your territory when we switch to a Free Market economic system. We are sure you are familiar with this effect. At that time our exploration teams will be disbanded if then unrest they cause cannot be managed.

If you are interested, the Consciousness is willing to sell you our world map for 50 megacredits. We have and continue to explore to the west and east of hour holdings. As you have pointed out, information has value. We would add that knowledge of the world in which we live is a key to understanding the threats and opportunities that surround us. This offer is open, pending your interest and approval.

With friendship,
Aki Zeta-Five
Chair, Consciousness Chancellery

*~*~*~*

Morgan Engineering Center #1, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2168

“What do you think Director?”

Morgan watched from a large window that looked out over a large room filled with small cubicles. In each cubicle a man or women sat at a desk working at a computer. What on the surface might seem innocuous to some was something entirely different to others.

“How much has productivity increased?” Morgan asked almost breathlessly.

“Unity Consortium set up a similar facility at their primary engineering center as well and with the combined power of both centers we have seen a 22% increase in profits in just this quarter alone.” The Manager of the facility responded quickly with great pride in his voice.

“Excellent.” Morgan whispered. This was just the start of course. Several of the main cities were now completing the special education and training centers for young parents and their children. With parents free to have as many children as they wanted, provided they paid their fees of course, populations at all of the major cities were surging. With more labor came specialization. Specialization increased efficiency and increased efficiency increased profits. It was all so clear to see.

“When do you think you can add more technicians such as these?” Morgan asked.

“Well, that is up for debate Director.” The manager replied hesitantly. “The next group of young talents are being groomed for two potential career paths. We can slot them in here of course but we could use them to help our scientists organize their data more effectively and provide the means to increase information flow which in turns increases efficiency.”

“I understand. Keep me appraised of the situation and the board of directors will make that final decision.” Morgan said as he turned about to leave. As he walked to the door his P.A.D. began to buzz in his pocket so he stopped and pulled it out. It was a coded message from the information office at his headquarters. It seems Aki-Zeta had replied. He keyed in his access code and the message was displayed.

So he had at last hit on something. Well, at least there was hope after all and the board would be very pleased indeed at this new development. No one wanted to start building armies and weapons; it was a waste of energy and resources. The Cyborgs were intrigued at least at the proposal but this switch to a free market economy seemed strange for them, one could even say bizarre? Exactly how does a cyborg make a “free will” decision when they are linked to a collective conscience? You would think that their socialist form of government and economics would preclude the approach to such a chaotic form of economics. Well, chaotic to some but not to everyone as Morgan glanced over his shoulder to look out over the vast room filled with highly trained technical economists. Economics was everything. It was the most pure science of all sciences. Economics mapped and guided and most importantly predicted the most complex dynamic thing in the entire universe: human thinking. From economics all things flowed: marketing, accounting, product development, merchandising, advertising, pricing and consumerism. What struck Morgan as so strange is how can you truly have a free market system when all aspects of a cyborgs life are monitored by the collective conscience. How can the seller/buyer relationship ever be truly free and most importantly “secret” when the possibility exists that the other person knows what you are thinking. This is something Morgan had to see!

As he finished the message he chuckled at the offer to sell the map files. Who cares Morgan thought! It was only valuable if they had ship technology. Why buy something that is completely worthless to him. Now if they cyborgs were willing to include their files on ship technology and their map files then he would agree. He jotted that down as a change to Aki-Zeta’s offer and sent it back. He already knew the answer he would get back but he doubted the Cyborgs could see the linkage even if it was staring them in the face. He also added to the reply that he would purchase the Hive’s communication frequency for 50 credits as well. Perhaps the robots needed cash? Did he smell blood here at last? Perhaps Morgan thought, perhaps. It was expensive to make these shifts to another economic system and very disruptive. Aki-Zeta let slip that the cyborgs would most likely have to decommission their ships because they could not pay the humans enough to serve on them. All the more reason to get some cash back for the exploration that they had done. Morgan chuckled again and hit the send key on his P.A.D. and dropped it back into his pocket. Well let’s see what happens now.

The manager for the research and management company watched Director Morgan, as he seemed to quickly jot a message on his P.A.D and work out obviously some very complex problem in a manner of minutes. What a fantastic businessman he was the manager thought.

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2169

Chancellor Rebecca Whinn concluded, “Then it is agreed. We are going to reject Morgan’s latest counter offer. This is getting to be quite a habit.”

“He is most difficult to negotiate with,” First Chancellor Ryan Gamma-Four stated. “The exchanges he proposes are one sided, and not in the best interests of the Consciousness. Perhaps we can attempt a technology exchange with the Caretakers or the Hive?”

Aki shook her head, and her close cropped platinum blond hair bobbed as she did so. “Negative. Such exchanges must be initiated by the other faction.”

“Morgan’s actions are most perplexing,” Ryan stated. “In rejecting our offers of technology trades he is also rejecting the ability to use those abilities to his own advantage. That could increase his societies productivity, and options.”

“Not necessarily,” Rebecca said. “He could be focusing his research toward a single goal, and at the expense of all other advances. If effective it would decrease the number of alternate technological advances, and lessen the time it would take to achieve his goal.”

“What is that goal? Do you have any insight, Chancellor?” Aki asked.

Rebecca was quiet for a moment, and the rest of the Chancellery waited for her response. Finally she said, “Yes, I do. But this will take a little research, and some resources we’ve been talking about. Aki?”

Aki nodded.

It was done.

*~*~*~*

City manager’s officer, Morgan Entertainment Inc. – MORGAN 2169

“What does this mean?”

“Will Mr. Gray as you can see our mining and other material processing operations are causing some increased levels of industrial pollution. This graph here.” The young man pointed to the bottom of the page. “Clearly indicates that when we add more production namely tree farming we will put us over the capacity for our ability to keep those operations “clean” so to speak.”

Mr. Gray sat for several minutes in silence as he studied the report. Morgan Entertainment while under his care had grown to be one of the most pre-eminent cities in Morgan Enterprises. Every form of luxury and care could be found at this city. It had the highest growth rate, thanks to the newly completed children’s crèche and it had three supply crawler operations going at full capacity. The city was expected to grow and grow with no end in site.

“I don’t see a problem here. What waste we will generate will be minimal.” Gray replied blandly.

“Sir, I agree it is minimal but growth projections show that we will add three more sectors of production, primarily forest sectors and the increased production in those areas and the processing of that wood will create great problems. I also attached some information we were able to “glean” from the cyborgs about these worms. It seems they are attracted to or respond to negative impacts such as pollution on the planet.” The young technician corrected.

“As I said I think you are overestimating this thing. Once again I will say I don’t see a problem here. Even if they do attack our security forces will destroy them and from what I have read as well you can find energy nodules in the remains that can be converted to our power systems. I am sure our security forces will be more than motivated to do their jobs since they will receive a share of anything they recover.” Gray said as he closed the report and handed it back to the young technician. “Anything else?”

“No sir. Thank you sir.” The young man stood up and left.

Gray pulled out the latest project before him, a network node. It was intriguing. It could help boost research levels and yet this energy bank system was also very attractive. Perhaps even another supply crawler to harvest energy? There were so many options to consider making his city the shining jewel in Morgan Enterprises.

*~*~*~*

Delta Marsh, MY 2170

The celebration was winding down at their new city Delta Marsh. This city was in one of the few optimal locations near their capital and sported a river and a mineral lode. As projected, it would be very productive in short order. It had taken a considerable period of time, however, to prepare the farms to feed the 3,000 people in the new city. Unlike other city sites, which were blessed with rainy terrain, this site required considerable terraforming.

Delta Marsh was the fifteenth Cyborg city. The fourteenth, Theta Banks, has been inaugurated a week ago. The colonists there were not blessed with a rich territory. Rather, that base was situated to guard that coast against the Hive, and utilize the territory around it more fully. Acquiring the needed nutrients to feed its colonists had been delicate balancing act, one that almost failed. There had been disorder due to a lack of a garrison, but an emergency relocation of the garrison at Beta Crossing had saved a thousand people from starving.

Of more interest was the migration of the Consciousness to a true democracy. This is a natural outgrowth of the collective consciousness many citizens shared. The difficulty had come in determining how to integrate the minority Full Humans and non-Consciousness Cyborgs to allow them full and equal representation. As always a compromise was reached where the voting was done outside of the Consciousness in a separate voting grid where everyone was equal. Granted, those of the Consciousness were at home in this environment, but none had an advantage. The first elections had already been held and a parliament would take its place within the month. Already the benefits of growth and efficiency were making themselves manifest. Bases that had previously been in near disorder were quiescent, and energy production was up.

These last 70 years had been more than interesting. With a population of over 48 thousand the Consciousness was reaching critical mass. Basic infrastructure was almost complete, and terraforming was finally exceeding the needs of base development.

Although off-line from the Consciousness, Aki parsed off a portion of her analytical ability. She remained at the celebration, and was able to engage in the uncomfortable task of interacting with a range of Full Humans, Cyborgs, and Consciousness members. The portion of her intellect engaged in a more interesting task: planning the transition of the Consciousness to a Free Market economic system.

*~*~*~*

Undisclosed office complex, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2170

Morgan walked into the dark room and sat down at a table. Within a few seconds the door on the opposite wall opened and middle aged man walked in. He was average looking in all aspects of his appearance.

“Thank you for coming Director.” The man said as he sat down.

“Are you up and running yet?” Morgan asked

“Yes, we are. Our first agents are in place at several key cities now and we will complete our program within a few turns or so. Nearly every Morgan or Unity city will have our anti-industrial espionage units in place to protect them.” The man replied.

“How will I contact you?” Morgan questioned.

“You don’t. In fact this will most likely be the last meeting we have. I would prefer we keep our operations secret. We will keep you posted as to events by using this numbered information account.” The man handed Morgan a piece of paper with some numbers on it. “Read it and destroy it.”

Morgan quickly memorized the code.

“Thank you for coming Director.” The man stood up and began to leave.

“What should I call this operation? What is your name?” Morgan asked again. He had invested a heavily in this program and once it was completed he had destroyed all records of it. Each team had been given a clandestine business identity that supported their operations. In essence, they did not exist.

“Mr. Smith if you need a name Director. As for a name, well, lets just keep it open for now.” Mr. Smith left the room.

Morgan stood up and walked out the other door and left the building.

	13-05-2005 16:46									#15
	Help yourself to an AD-FREE life

Alpha Prime, MY 2171

The finalization of the transition to a free market economy would have to wait. Unification’s captain Hernandez Cappa-Three had just made contact with another faction, and this one was human.

Aki sat in front of the old-fashioned radio setup, which was a relic of Unity. Here was no life holo feed, or image transmission. This was to be voice only.

After a few moments she activated the link, and a faint hiss with a crackle erupted from the unused speakers. “This is Aki Zeta-Five of the Consciousness. With whom do we have the honor of conversing with?”

“This is Sister Miriam Godwinson of the Lord Believers. We have…” she started as the channel dissolved into static. ”…and then received your crew at our port. They told us of your…alterations. It is against the will of God, Aki Zeta-Five. Your people must ask forgiveness. That is the only way to salvation.”

Aki was stopped in her tracks. “We see,” she said, stalling for time. “We will consider your warning.” Aki called up a quick file on appropriate language, and a suitable offer to smooth future relations. Finally she found something that held promise. “As penance we offer your people the secrets of High Energy Chemistry. Perhaps this will open our hearts, and allow your guidance on how to save our souls.”

There was silence of a while and Aki wasn’t certain if the communication frequency was still active. “Agreed, Aki Zeta-Five. Your offer is acceptable. Please consider a friendship treaty so that we may try to save your people, and that together we may walk together in the paths of righteousness.”

“We accept, Sister Godwinson. It has been a pleasure talking with you,” she said, and then closed the channel.

Aki turned to her Chancellors. “We are behind schedule, and the diversion in our contact with the Believers has delayed decommissioning our exploration fleet. Can Captain Cappa-Three set the demolition charges and meet the return resupply boat in time for our economic migration?”

Ryan shook his head. “No, Prime Function. We will have to delay for a year.”

“Very well. See that other plans are made.”

The Chancellors left, and after they had gone Aki shunted a few questions to the Consciousness to consider:

What is the impact of our democratic model with the long-term relations with the Believers, Morganites and the Hive?

What is the impact of our migration to a free market economy with the Hive, Believers, and Morganites?

Is there any significant chance of a productive relationship with the aliens?

*~*~*~*

Office of Director Morgan, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2171

“Why am I reading this?”

Morgan threw the P.A.D. down on his desk in disgust.

“Director our long-range sensors detected something going on out there. It was a massive explosion and.”

“And you don’t think it was man-made. Well so what then? What do I care if some fungus expands a little bit in one sector? We will just burn it out later.” Morgan looked at his aide in annoyance.

Economically things were going great for Nwabudike Morgan. Morgan Enterprises was now generating hefty double digits in mega-credits each turn. The marketing and research department reported just the other day that they were adding 48 terraquads of information to the Morgan Data Systems Inc. storage banks. A possible technological breakthrough was expected any day now. So why in the hell should some pink fungus be of concern to him.

“Director if this “fungal bloom” is the result of pollution it could prove in time to be of great importance to us. Perhaps Mr. Gray the city manager at Morgan Entertainment should restrict some of the heavy industry he has built up there.”

“Not in your lifetime!” Morgan fired back. “What the hell is wrong with you today Adam have you become a tree hugger or something? For the love of money who cares what happens out on the periphery of our territory. The Cyborgs have all but dropped off the map and until we develop our own sailing fleet we are as snug as a bug in a rug. I don’t care one whit about the world out there. If the Cyborgs think they can dictate to use terms on technology transfers to keep us in the dark well they have another thing coming. Talking with that Aki-Zeta is about as fun as talking with my blender or pasta maker.”

Adam Williams stood there silently for a few minutes and then handed Morgan another P.A.D.

“Sir this is a report for the colonization action team you put together. They report that we will be able to send out two more colony pods within the decade if not sooner. I have another few reports for your review as well.”

Adam laid the P.A.D.s on Morgan’s desk.

“Okay I will look them over. Make sure you have my car waiting for me when I leave work at 6:00. I want to make my dinner reservations and then I have party to attend.” Morgan said absently as Adam left the room.

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2172

Chancellor Whinn nodded toward the Prime Function. “Our transition to a free market economy is complete and successful. Our scientific productivity has increased over 50 percent to 85 terraquads of data per year, and our breakthrough rate is approximately one per decade, even after all the technology we traded the Hive is accounted for. Discretionary energy is up 100 percent, too. That will be a welcome boon.

“The only significant down sides are that our exploration fleet is now decommissioned, and that we have had to enact significant measure to ensure social stability. Twenty percent of our energy output is now required to keep social order, and about a third of our bases require additional population dedicated to keeping a minimal level of social decorum. This has resulted in decreased resource utilization, and has lowered our industrial and energy output. Several recreation commons are coming on line at our newer bases, and others are completing holo centers and children crèches soon.

“In short, the migration to a free market economy has met or exceeded expectations. In the coming year we may actually see some trade income from our treaties with the Morganites, Believers, and Hive, and that would be welcome after years of being a profit center for the Morganites. What has truly inspired the Full Humans, Cyborgs and members of the Consciousness is the increased energy output, and the significant spike in research. In the coming years the construction of more network nodes will cause this to increase even more.”

Rebecca paused, and that got the other Chancellor’s attention. “We do need to inform Morgan of our decision. I’ve prepared a draft text, which can be sent subject to approval by the Chancellery.”

*~*~*~*

CEO Morgan,

The Consciousness Chancellery announces our transition to a free market economy. This has significantly increased our energy productive power, which will increase the benefits of trade between our peoples.

This transition has caused the Chancellery to reconsider your proposal for Cyborg troops to be stations in your territory. Upon further analysis these troops will cause unrest for our people. Therefore we officially decline your offer to act as defensive and offensive troops for your territory until such a date when assistance can be rendered without significant social disorder.

Consciousness Chancellery

*~*~*~*

Director Morgan’s office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2172

Aki-Zeta,

Well I am very pleased to hear that you have adopted a free market economic system. Perhaps NOW you can fully appreciate my position since the day we first met each other. As you can see a free economic system has a buyer and a seller. In that economic system it is not the intrinsic “worth” of the item or service or information that is relative but the passion and desire of the buyers and sellers that determine value. If a seller really wants to “push” inventory then he sells low. If a buyer MUST have an object or information then he will pay whatever the market may ask.

So now that you have such a system in place we can perhaps begin a civilized conversation as to the relative need or value of your technology versus my technology. I will make the following offer. I would be willing to trade our files on gene splicing for your files on ship design or plasma armor and in addition the communication frequency of one other faction. That is my offer. That is what I am selling today. It is what I am only going to sell to you until you agree to my offer.

So you can either accept my offer or not. It is a sellers market. Do you really need my technology or not? It’s that simple. I suspect even a Cyborg can understand that basic free market economic principle?

I await your response. I would even entertain a suitable counter offer if you have one?

Your friendly trading partner,

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

PS- I never really expected that you would agree to the previous arrangement. It made too much sense. I do hope your new economic system is proceeding as hoped. I still don’t see much of a change in the balance of trade but perhaps in time?

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2173

CEO Morgan,

The position of the Consciousness has not changed. Our observation is that all technology has a worth related to the advantages of that technology, and that this worth is reflected in the utility of that advantage to the faction. Therefore, all technology is inherently of equal value, but of differing utility based on the needs of that faction at that moment in time. Since the Consciousness views our technologies as having equal utility to those offered by your faction we believe these technologies are equivalent. Your proposed technology trades are one sided and not in the interests of the Consciousness. Our previous offer to exchange one technology of your choice for one of our technologies is still valid.

We will offer an additional option. We will be willing to trade one of your technologies for the communication link to one of the factions we have contacted during our explorations. This has not been previously offered and may be of interest to you.

With friendship,
Aki Zeta-Five
Chair, Consciousness Chancellery

*~*~*~*

Director Morgan’s office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2173


Aki-Zeta,

Somehow I knew you were going to respond as you did! But as it turns out I have just received words from several of my business associates that deal with your nation and it turns out you have made a significant breakthrough in what they have been told “adaptive economics”.

The importance of such a discovery is hardly worth discussing in this communication but for the first time I think we can make a trade that will benefit both nations. I will exchange our files on gene splicing and you will send us the files on adaptive economics. This exchange clearly fits your definition of “equal utility” since it is a “one for one” exchange! It is also a fair exchange for us as well since it clearly falls within our guidelines of a level three technology for a level three technology. It’s a win/win scenario for both societies! I hardly can wait to see what we can work on in the future since we now have the mutual means to work towards an exchange that will provide equal utility for both factions.

I am glad that we have been able to reach at last an agreement that fits both of our nation’s definitions and needs. Your generous offer and I quote; “Our previous offer to exchange one technology of your choice for one of our technologies is still valid” is a clear demonstration of your leadership and business insight. Gene splicing for adaptive economics is an equal exchange of equal technologies for equal benefit for both.

We will expect your technology to be sent to us “pre-approved” and we in turn will immediately reply in kind.

Lastly, as much as it pains me to say this I feel any technology trade for a communication frequency to an “unknown” faction strikes me as a poor decision. If you would be willing as a sign of good faith to send me a map file of yours to show us “which” faction’s communication frequency we would be trading for would be a good place to start to build that trust, don’t you think? As it stands now since we lack ship technology the relative “utility” of establishing communications with an unknown faction could pose even greater risks. I do say you might be learning some business skills but I suggest you take a refresher course in this matter. I find it curious and I am intrigued as to how a cyborg society is able to handle the complexities of a free market system. It would seem to me that only the few non-cyborgs could really participate in such a system since all of your Cyborgs, or so I am told, are linked to a common consciences? I can tell you if my business rivals could read my mind I would be a poor man right now. I hope that after the successful conclusion of our exchange you can enlighten me as to how Cyborgs are able to barter iron ore or any other commodity in your markets without some sort of “planned” outcome from the very start? It will be a very intriguing document to read and I hope it will open new vistas for myself any my business partners. I for one along with my other partners have been wary of entering into any serious dealings out of fear that the information we convey to one Cyborg does not end up getting used against us by another Cyborg. Are you able to “compartmentalize” certain information that the cyborg collective cannot read and if so doesn’t that create even greater problems? Also, what would happen if a Cyborg acted upon information gained from a link that he shouldn’t, ca we sue him or her? A very interesting topic to be sure.

I await your report with great anticipation!

Your new friend in business,

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++

Morgan turned off the holo-camera and turned to his senior assistant.

“As soon as we get the files from that Cyborg order 1/3 of all our crawlers to pack up and report to Morgan Entertainment Inc. to add their robotic systems to the completion of the project. With the crawlers and the massive amounts of minerals we pull out of the ground there we will have that project built in less than 15 turns I bet!”

Morgan’s aide nodded and smiled as did Morgan.

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2174

CEO Morgan,

Your intelligence is in error. The Consciousness does not possess the technology Adaptive Economics. Moreover, you are once again talking about technology levels, which is illogical and meaningless. Further, even if we did possess this technology it would be inappropriate to exchange it with your people until we had an agreement as to the disposition of the completion of any Projects associated with that technology. We are sure you would agree that this would also be proprietary information and subject to negotiation.

Your latest communication to Alpha Prime contradicted your holo message. Your communication indicated a trade of High Energy Chemistry for your files on Gene Splicing. Although we assume this is also an error on your part, we will accept this exchange since it is within the parameters of the Consciousness’ specifications.

Your request for our world map files gratis is rejected. As previously stated, these data were acquired at considerable cost to the Consciousness and resulted in significant intellectual value. Therefore, this value would have to be appropriately compensated for Cyborg investment, and in consideration of the value it gives your society as to the location and nature of other factions. Since you have offered nothing in return for this information there is no reason to seriously consider your request.

The rejection of our offer to trade our intellectual property of faction communication frequencies is noted. This offer will remain open, pending approval of the Chancellery, if you feel the interest to reexamine your position.

Contrary to your inference, the Full Humans, Cyborgs, and members of the Consciousness in our society possess free will and make their own decisions. Full Humans and Cyborgs have full access to their emotional makeup, and members of the Consciousness have sacrificed a portion of their emotion for the logical benefits of the Program. Being part of the Consciousness is voluntary, and no individual participates in the Program at all times. Even so, only a portion of the individual’s intellect is participates in the Program. Each member of our society, therefore, retains his or her individuality; there is no common mind, only a temporary common purpose. None of this inhibits each individual’s desires and goals, nor does it inhibit the growth of a free market economic system predicated on the human desire for a better economic situation. Indeed, our society does offer the benefits of a scientific outlook and an inherent efficiency that enhances a free market system.

We trust this has clarified the issues that remain between our peoples.

Aki Zeta-Five
Chair, Consciousness Chancellery

	13-05-2005 16:47									#16
	Support Apolyton, pre-order Civilization IV

Director Morgan’s office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2174

Aki-Zeta,

It seems I might have been given incorrect information as it pertains to your technology. I will have to re-check with my sources and determine where the fault lays. If this has given you any trouble please accept my apology.

I think perhaps you might be slightly misinformed as well, as you put it and I quote, “Moreover, you are once again talking about technology levels, which is illogical and meaningless.” What we did say in our last communication was that “if” you had possession of such technology then we would consider a one for one exchange that is satisfactory to us and I believe for you as well. We might reach that decision from two different methods but in the end the result was the same an equal exchange of technology, one for one.

I think it important at this time to clear up one issue between us. At this time Morgan Enterprises Inc. puts no “value” in military technology. We will even go as far as to say that any military technology is of equal importance to any other technology. What we do believe is that any military technology is of little value to our society when compared to what other types of technology can offer us. We are so far behind militarily at this time and I will be blunt with you because I feel you are an honorable person, that any attempts to try and “catch-up” would be foolhardy at best. So until such time as we can secure a “package” of technology that can help us achieve a “creditable” military force it does not seem worthwhile to try! It is regrettable that we have fallen into this position but the simple fact of the matter is that we are in it. Luckily for us we do have sophisticated anti-espionage teams stationed at many of our cities that will secure our technology and data-systems from intrusion. If an aggressive power feels the need to storm our shores to take our technology there is little I can do about it. So we will have to seek other methods of securing our safety. It does seem a shame that two free-market economic systems cannot figure out away to develop a mutual defense system to protect our markets. So far from what I have been told there are few “reasonable” factions on Chiron to work with so perhaps building a stronger alliance with us would be preferable?

As to you comment about “technology it would be inappropriate to exchange it with your people until we had an agreement as to the disposition” I am sure we could work out some arrangement that would compensate both of us. It hardly would seem fair to us as the buyer to purchase technology that only offered ½ of 1/3 of the benefits? I mean we certainly would not expect to sell you our advanced and highly profitable supplier crawler technology and then inform you that you can only build “a few” crawlers, would it? Of course, if you were willing to offer us an additional technology as compensation for us not to develop the project then perhaps we could work something out. However, on the other hand, would it not be in the spirit of our two “free market” societies that we should compete and see which one of us would win the race to complete it? Since it takes equal effort “according to you” to develop any technology should we not also have an equal chance to develop that project if it were part of an exchange? I think you can agree with me there.

I have reviewed your report on how cyborgs work and I found it fascinating reading. I still wonder how your cyborgs are able to “partition” parts of their minds so that other cyborgs cannot read them. I think it is fascinating. I do wonder how you can achieve a common purpose among you all and yet still have a free market system. As I mentioned in my last communication we have many business groups and they frequently work at cross-purposes to each other and sometimes they are hostile to each other. So it strikes me as odd how you can have a common purpose and yet have individual choice? Perhaps you can elaborate on that for me? I suppose it might have to do with your political system? We long ago decided that money was the best vote any individual could have. The person that has the most should make the decisions since they have more to risk! Once again, fascinating!

I think it is wonderful that you have achieved, what many would call, a utopian society! You seem to have the best of all worlds!

I wish you continued profits!

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2175

<
((Greetings Prime Function. Program repair algorithm in effect.))

<
((Affirmative. Protein breakdown identified as the cause for the termination of Hsu Phi-Seventeen. The protein RNQ-4 was used in the manufacture of transmission enzymes; without adequate transmission enzymes the Program appropriated the closest enzyme from the cerebellum, RNQ-3, which is required for basal body functions including breathing and basic motor functions.)

<
((Affirmative. Cyborgs associates of Hsu Phi-Seventeen have been notified and they have placed themselves under medical monitoring, with only a minimum thread to the Consciousness. This last procedure does entail risk, but was required to maintain the stability of the Program within the individuals.))

<
((Available data indicate that the condition is unique to Hsu Phi-Seventeen. Her DNA profile, when examined in greater detail, indicates that her naturally occurring RNQ and transmitter RNQ are biologically closer than that of other individuals. Recommendation: generate a distribution the biologic makeup for susceptibility to this condition and assess the likelihood of complications.))

<
((Unknown. Zakharov created 46 engineered proteins that enable the manufacture of 198 enzymes that are necessary to keep the link between the human higher brain functions and the hardware. This link allows the Program to function as an integrated part of the Consciousness; upon assimilation the Full Human is able to accept higher orders, and the construct of the group mind. There is a build in redundancy within the engineered proteins and enzymes constructs to prevent systemic failure and allow for self-repair. The Program’s aggressiveness in perpetuation resulted, in this instance. At this time speculation is not possible.))

<
((Negative. Only full members of the Consciousness are susceptible to this condition.))

<
##link terminated##

*~*~*~*

Future site of Morgan Networks Company, Morgan Entertainment Inc. – MORGAN 2175


“Very impressive Mr. Gray, very impressive indeed.”

“Why thank you sir. We are very fortunate here to have so many ample resources at our disposal. The latest reports I have from my assistant is that we are mining or harvesting nearly 16 Morgan units each turn.”

“And each one of them are mined and processed by a Morgan Industries Inc. automated supply crawler operation!” Morgan cheerfully added.

It was a very impressive statistic to anyone who could appreciate economics and business. Morgan Enterprises had 10 automated supply crawlers in operation with another 21 book for production. But what brought Morgan today to Morgan Entertainment Inc. today was the building in front of him. It was the new corporate headquarters and operation center for a massive computer network facility.

“When will you have it in operation?” Morgan asked hopefully.

“We will have it completed within 6 turns Director, maybe less if I can convince you and board to part with a few mega-credits.” Mr. Gray chuckled as he replied.

“Mr. Gray your city has received a great deal of support as it is. We will soon need every credit to help our new colonies get established. We will have to help those new colonists build critical systems so they can get running as quickly as possible.” Morgan said seriously. It was getting more and more difficult to accommodate every request from every city manager that wanted to complete this project first so they could get on to the next one sooner. As it stood now Alisa Stevens and the other board members had wrangled a deal from him that the next two turns of profits would be used to complete the holo-compelex at Unity Consortium Inc. In exchange, Morgan had secured the production contracts for the new research hospitals that would soon be built at several Morgan cities.

“Well Director I can tell you this is the place that you will get the biggest bang for the buck! When this facility comes on line we should be pushing nearly 73 terraquads of energy per turn! It just goes to show you Director that with enough money I could cure the common cold!”

Both men laughed at the joke.

“Just make sure we patent the cure after you find it Mr. Gray. It is unfortunate that even though we are making breakthroughs almost every 8 to 9 turns we are only discovering technology that either the Cyborgs or other factions already have. It is unfortunate we could not make a deal with the robots but it is clear that their free market economy is far different than ours.” Morgan commented as both men began to walk towards the construction site.

“Director I know that our scientists think that the next breakthrough will most likely be something in the field of high energy plasma. Perhaps it might even have a military application. It is a shame that they could not find some other field to work on.” Mr. Gray commented as they walked into the building.

“Agreed but I am told that to “force” these scientists in the pure research field to “make” something you want would be like asking me to give up my fortune, next to impossible! Now lets see those new computer systems that I have bought at such a pretty penny. I want to make sure we have everything that you need to get things moving here as quickly as possible!”

Morgan slapped the city manager on the back as they gingerly stepped around work equipment so that their expensive shoes did not get dirty.

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2176

”Chairman Yang,” Aki Zeta-Five said. “It is good to see you.”

Yang inclined his head slightly. “And you, also,” he stated. His voice was flat, and Aki detected a hint of antipathy, if that was possible. “I am pleased to report that our war with the Caretakers goes well. We have captured an alien sea city for the people of the Hive. This is humanity’s struggle against the alien onslaught. We encourage you to join us in our war of liberation for the People.”

Aki digested these important bits of information. First: the Hive was at war with the Caretakers. This was likely a good thing for the Consciousness since the Hive would therefore be less likely to land forces on their territory. Such an eventuality had been prepared for, and even now plasma garrisons and impact rovers guarded their western holdings. Second: the aliens had shown their aggressive intentions, and humans had beaten them! It was to be sure that this ‘victory’ may have been hollow, but it was just as clear that the aliens were quickly ascending in power. Two alien foils had been seen traversing the seas north of Consciousness territory, and it was well known that Morgan was so weak willed that he was paying off the aliens with valued technology; a Faustian bargain that would harm them all.

“The Consciousness congratulates you on your victory, Chairman. As fellow humans we wish you well in your struggles. However, at this time we are not prepared to engage in a war. Perhaps we can offer some material support by way of information, but that is all.”

Yang’s face pinched. Even Aki could see that he was not happy. “Then our conversation is ended,” he said.

Aki was waiting for him to then terminate their treaty, and perhaps worse.

But, that did not occur. The communication channel went dead.

Chancellor Rebecca Whinn entered the room. “That was close.”

Aki looked up. “Yes, it was. Any news?”

Rebecca had a pained look on her face. “Yes. A transport left The Hive a week ago. Our sensors on the northwestern portion of our territory saw it just a few hours ago. An interesting coincidence, wouldn’t you say? With a little more time we could determine what the transport contains, but not right now. I wanted to make sure you knew right away.”

Aki nodded. “Thank you,” she said. Full Humans responded better to such courtesies, even if they were redundant. “In what direction is it headed?”

“Currently north, but it could hit Psi Consensus, or even unload troops that are toward Theta Banks. Or it could be going north to take on the Caretakers.”

“Or Morgan,” Aki commented.

That stopped Rebecca in her tracks. “Should we warn him?”

After a moment of thought Aki said, “No.”

*~*~*~*

Nwabudike Morgan’s penthouse apartments, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2176

“Director it was so kind of you to invite us to your party tonight.”

Morgan simply smiled and kissed the hand that was stretched out in front of him. His lips barely touched the hand but he did ever so gently message the hand. His eyes looked up and he had a sly smile on his face.

“Kindness had nothing to do with Abby. I need your support for my next venture into medical research and I hope to get that tonight.”

Abby Reynolds gave a slight laugh and tossed her graying hair to one side. “Nwabudike you have made me too much money in the past for me not to listen to any proposal you have.”

“And who is this yes?” Morgan asked with a slight infliction as he gently released her hand.

Abby turned to the man standing beside her.

“Why this is my date Nwabudike. Allow me to introduce Constantine Ivanovich Zaitsev.”

The man standing next to Abby Reynolds was in his late forties, perhaps older. He had a strong muscular build and short black hair that was peppered with gray. His face look like a piece of marble that hand been roughly chiseled.

“Good to meet you Constantine.” Morgan reached out to shake the man’s hand. It was strong and his hands were rough. Morgan immediately thought that he must be a common laborer but how could a Reynolds ever associate with a simple laborer. “Have we ever met?”

“Nyet.” Constantine replied quickly. “I am the security inspector for Morgan Data Systems Inc. I am their chief of security.”

“Ah yes.” Morgan replied quickly as he rapidly tried to remember any information about that operation. “Well it is good to have you with us tonight. I hope that you will consider investing in my new venture tonight. I am offering everyone here exclusive options for a buy in.”

“I am afraid not.” Constantine quickly replied. “All of my fortune is committed to my own business. Aside from my day job I am the president of Security Incorporated. We offer a wide variety of training programs both military and security to those who are interested.”
“Yes, well I can fully understand the “security” aspect but military?” Morgan shrugged his shoulders in disbelief. “Why fight when you can negotiate. We gave the aliens technology nearly 30 turns ago and they have left us alone since then. Imagine if we had allowed the Cyborgs to talk us into creating an army. Where would we be then? We would not have half the advances we have now. No my new friend let the other fight it out and we will negotiate like civilized people.”

“Negotiations don’t always work Director. It is a simple fact and what if you fail? You have yet to make any headway with the Cyborgs to procure any additional technology.” Constantine fired back.

“Immaterial.” Morgan brushed the annoying response away like he would a fly. “The robots are a broken record that take advantage of lesser technological factions by making exchanges with them and then they harp at us for wanting to do the same to them. All we have ever asked is for a list of technologies that we can choose from so that we can select something of equal value to us and they simply refuse. All they want to trade with is military technology. What rubbish! They might be able to get away with that with Yang and whomever else they bumped into out there but not us. I am sure that they even gave away some technology, worthless crap it might be, to secure friendly relations with anyone they met. Morgan Enterprises will not be treated like a third world nation!”

Everyone in the room got very quiet.

“Of course you might be right Director.” Constantine pointed out. “But what if you are wrong. What if other factions land on our shores and decide that it is far easier to just take what they want rather than negotiations.”

“Why would they!” Morgan laughed confidently. “Have we harmed them in anyway? NO! Using the famous line of that half robot witch Aki-Zeta “it is illogical!”

“I agree but what if logic has nothing to do with it. All I am saying Director is that I have decided to make it MY business to prepare for that eventuality. I think you would be surprised to find out how many of your closest supporters and stockholders have sought me out for advice. Credits are only good if you are around to spend them.” Constantine said in a more reasonable tone. He quickly realized that Morgan was not amused anymore by this little debate and did not want to risk his wrath or more appropriately his business wrath.

“I am not worried. We have our own security forces and anti-espionage teams. I am sure they can deal with any minor incursions. The cost of trying to take any Morgan or Unity Consortium City might be higher than they expect.”

“I don’t think so Director. I can send you a report in the morning detailing how fragile our military security is. We do have good anti-espionage systems and people but if it came to war we would be in trouble.” Constantine replied as calmly as he could.

“Well I do wish you success in your new business Constantine. I would still hedge your bets by putting some investment in one of my operations though. We still sell a considerable amount of material and luxury goods to the non-cyborgs and even some of those cyborgs as well. In time we will sell more to everyone else as well. Economic power is the single most powerful force in the universe. It brought us here to this planet and it will dominant humanity for all time. Watch and see my friend. Economic behavior is human behavior and I understand both very well. We are safe and secure and I have no concerns. Now before you get me really mad and I buy out your company and have you fired please have a drink with me and eat some of my food.” Morgan finished speaking and laughed and the tension in the room was broken.

As the night continued Morgan could not help but think that this man might bear watching. Some of the things he said did make sense in a way. One thing that Morgan had learned over time was when you found a person that had the right “stuff” you kept them close so you could use them to make even more money and he had a feeling about this man.

	13-05-2005 16:48									#17
	Enter the AD-FREE zone

Alpha Prime, MY 2177

“It is time to consider a third wave of base expansion,” Chancellor Whinn stated. “With our increased efficiency we can now maintain a larger infrastructure of cities without added social unrest. According to the analysis provided by the Consciousness,” she said, nodding toward Chancellor Ryan, “we can easily establish four more bases, bringing our total to 19. As you may deduce, this will be a significant increase in resource utilization, and will use our Project the Planetary Transit System to good effect since new bases are large. Moreover, bases with three thousand citizens are more content, so using bases that have four thousand citizens to construct the colony pod will make them more stable, and create a new production center in the process.

“Four new bases would add 12,000 citizens to the Consciousness, an increase of 23 percent from our current totals. This could be expected to increase resource utilization by a like amount, and an increase scientific output of perhaps 15 percent. That would put us over the elusive 100 terraquad in annual scientific production, a worthy goal, as I’m sure you’ll agree.

“There are some difficulties. It will take time to construct appropriate terraforming to support a new base of 3000 citizens. Most of the territory to the east is marginal and will need extensive work. That said, five terraformers are currently working on this problem, and it should be little problem to establish two of these proposed new bases within the decade. It will take some time, of course, to construct the base components after existing bases have completed their current base improvements.

“In short, I propose a steady expansion of the Consciousness. Our base infrastructure is progressing nicely, and we are now working on research enhancing improvements.”

Rebecca sat down, and Aki nodded toward her. “Thank you, Chancellor. Your arguments are, as always, logical and eloquent. As you were finishing your presentation a majority of the Chancellery voted to approve your recommendation. It now stands as law.”

*~**~*

Director Morgan’s office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2177

Aki-Zeta,

I thought it might be time again to see if we can try to achieve some trade arrangement. I would like to discuss what technologies we might be able to focus for this exchange but I would need a list of technologies you would be willing to exchange. As you know we have only two technologies that you do not have so we have little to bargain with. Our advanced industrial automation technology and gene splicing are all that we have to offer. So perhaps you can see how important it is for us to extract as much value as we can from them.

So I do hope that you will send us the information on what technologies you would be willing to send us, or any proposal you would like to offer.

I was a bit disappointed that you did not respond to my last inquiry as to the additional information on Cyborg society. I am most keen in hearing any information you would be willing to share with me.

I do hope that in time you will come to see Morgan Enterprises as friendly business partner.

May your profits double today!

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++

“I think it is a little gushy.”

“I can re-write it if you want.” Morgan’s assistant quickly replied.

“No, no. Let it go. I doubt she will even respond to it as it stands. I honestly believe that it will take something of monumental impact for her to realize that it’s her best interest to see a stronger Morgan Enterprises. All she seems to harp on, over and over again is what a terrible thing we did to give into the demands of the aliens. At that time we had hardly even begun to speculate on the possibility of military technology exchanges and I was supposed to thumb my nose at that tusk face. I don’t think so.” Morgan signed off on the letter and endorsed it to be sent out that day.

“Would like to send it yourself sir?”

“No, I have spa treatment latter this afternoon and then a business dinner. The last thing I want is to have that women get under my skin and ruin my day. Perhaps this simple letter might diffuse the situation a bit.” Morgan pushed it back to his aide.

“Of course sir.”

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2178

CEO Morgan,

The Consciousness is pleased to discuss intellectual property exchanges, even if our previous negotiations have been fruitless. Here is our proposal: you give us Gene Splicing and Industrial Automation, and the Consciousness will give you two technologies of your choice. In addition, as part of this exchange we will grant you as a gift of good will the Secrets of the Human Brain. With this technology you will be able to get trance protection against native attacks, and this can be installed on defensive units for ‘free’. We are sure that ‘free’ may appeal to your sense of value when constructing military units. Note that there have been two attacks on Consciousness base defenders, and our scouting forces have been forced to destroy three native units in the course of their explorations.

Our technologies from which you may choose are listed below. Please correct us if there are some that are incorrectly listed. We are fairly certain that you are aware of the capabilities these technologies convey, but in case you are not they are:

Applied Physics – attack factor 2 weaponry (offense)
Nonlinear Mathematics – attack factor 4 weaponry (offense)
Polymophic Software – artillery (defensive and offensive)
Doctrine: Flexibility – sea foils (offense) and transports (exploration, military operations)
Doctrine: Loyalty – Command Center (defense and offense)
Doctrine: Mobility – rovers (offense and defense, exploration)
High Energy Chemistry – defense armor 3
Secrets of the Human Brain – trance protection against native life

Other intellectual property that you may be interested in are the communication frequencies to the various factions we have encountered during our explorations, and our extensive world map. By way of good will we would like to inform you that we have definitive proof there is a second alien faction on Chiron. The Consciousness views this as more of a threat than an opportunity, however; take this news how you will.

We are not certain what sort of information you wish to obtain about our societal structure. The general disposition of the Full Humans, Cyborgs, and members of the Consciousness were outlined in our previous communication.

Aki Zeta-Five
Chair, Consciousness Chancellery

*~*~*~*

Director Morgan’s office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2178

Aki-Zeta,

Your offer is intriguing but it lacks “vision”. I would like to propose the following counter-offer.

1) We will send you our files on gene splicing.

2) You will send us your files on ship designs and laser weapons.

3) Our research department is already working along the same research lines that developed your laser weapons. Once we have your files we can “jump” over that technology thread and apply our cumulative research to other areas.

4) Since we are only a handful of turns away from completing our research the next breakthrough we make will be yours. Even if this new technology has the potential for a special project we will give it to you regardless which will make it a fair race to anyone who can complete it.

I think this is a wonderful bargain for both of us and gives us the ability to advance forward together rather than just looking at the present.

If for some terrible reason our future technology discovery is something you already have we can discuss reparations that would compensate you for the loss. You have my promise that the Cyborgs will be treated fairly in this matter but I have the utmost confidence in my staff that they will achieve a new breakthrough that will benefit us both.

If you agree to our proposal please attach the relevant files.

Lastly, as I have repeatedly said that without ship technology your map files and communication frequencies are of little value to us. Once we can establish our own merchant fleet then we would be very interested in your map files and any communication frequencies for potentially friendly factions.

Have a profitable day!

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2179

CEO Morgan,

Your offer is acceptable. We have attached our files for Doctrine: Flexibility and Applied Physics, pre-approved. In return we expect your files on Gene Splicing, and your technical data associated with your next scientific advance. This is predicated on the understanding that this will be an advance that the Consciousness does not already possess.

We are glad we have finally come to an understanding. Chiron is an unforgiving place, and our neighbors are not likely to be forthcoming.

Aki Zeta-Five
Chair, Consciousness Chancellery

*!*!*!*

Director Morgan’s office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2179

Aki- Zeta,

I am not sure what to make of this situation but I can only assume you have tried to trick me but it will not work! What we thought was a good faith effort on our part has turned into some ghastly plot on your part!

We have detected the landing of a Cyborg espionage team along our southern coast area. You are to remove them immediately! ALL current agreements are suspended pending your actions.

I am not sure what prompted you to take such bold and foolish action but I find it treacherous indeed for you. In hindsight I suppose your eagerness to agree to my proposal was all the indication I needed to know that you had more devious plans afoot!

If you remove your team immediately and once we can confirm their departure we will of course honor our agreement with you. I will not even seek any compensation for this most heinous act of treachery. I am filled with loathing!

If you try to infiltrate Morgan Science Park Inc. our own anti-espionage teams will have orders to counter your actions and destroy them on site. Should this happen all agreements between us our forfeit!

You have been warned!

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++

Morgan turned off the holo-camera and turned to his assistant.

“I want you to find a Constantine Ivanovich Zaitsev. He can be located at Morgan Data Systems Inc. You will contact him and request that he come her immediately for a meeting with me. Is that clear!” Morgan commanded.

The two men standing in the room quickly nodded and left.

Morgan sat there steaming for some time. Damn that cyborg witch to hell and back. What was she playing at? Well, if she tried something she would be in for a shock to be sure. Morgan Enterprises might have to bow to petty military tyrants but covert actions were something else. He would teach those robots something or his name was not Nwabudike Morgan!

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2180

CEO Morgan,

The espionage teams were dispatched some time ago. Prior to our recent technology trade agreement the Chancellery had deduced that you were not a useful partner for the Consciousness. You were unwilling to engage in the most basic exchange, or if so at significant benefit to you; by our assessment your deals were one sided. Moreover, the utility of our economic exchanges was judged to be null. On the basis of the exchange of intellectual information and economic performance our relationship was assessed to be of almost no worth. Moreover, there was no good faith, and even less communication. Therefore it was decided to, at a minimum, infiltrate your datalinks. Since we have finally come to an agreement that brings some profit to the Consciousness, to use your vernacular, our relationship is now viewed as valuable. These teams have now been dispatched toward a more appropriate targets.

As an act of good will on the part of the Consciousness, we are informing you that the Hive has landed troops on the southern portion of your continent. The transport immediately departed and headed back toward the Hive mainland. As you can see by the world maps we traded some time ago, the Hive is relatively close to both of us. At this time they have two transports that are complete, one more building, and a continent full of troops. We have effectively garrisoned our western holdings with plasma infantry, rovers, espionage teams, and impact rovers in case Chairman Yang becomes hostile. You may want to make preparations.

Aki Zeta-Five
Chair, Consciousness Chancellery

	13-05-2005 16:48									#18
	Get a bigger avatar today!

Main boardroom of Morgan Enterprises, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2180

“What do you think Mr. Zaitsev?”

Everyone turned towards Constantine who was sitting at the far end of the table. He had been working with his own agents to analyze the latest communication from the Cyborgs and their recent incursion into Morgan territory. It was still hard to believe that he had been whisked here just ½ a turn ago and had accepted a short-term contract from Morgan to help assist with this latest development.

“I can tell you this these cyborgs meant to take your technology from you and they were going to do it any way they could. Their operation had been in the works for some time so I think it is very clear that they wanted our technology in the worst way. What I find amusing is that they were so clumsy about the whole affair. I would have tried to make a trade for map files just prior to landing troops to gain valuable terrain information such as the construction of new roads and other improvements. It is clear that they failed to anticipate we would have a base in that area with advanced sensors. Bush league.” Constantine finished.

Everyone in the room began to whisper to each other but Morgan quickly silenced them.

“Okay, what do we do now?” Morgan said with determination in his voice.

“Well, first I would wait for a while to see if those teams have left. Send out one of our teams to check the area. It shouldn’t take too long, perhaps three, four turns. I would continue our efforts to build an even stronger anti-espionage teams and perhaps double up a few at our larger cities so that when a new colony pod is dispatched like the one leaving Unity Collections Inc. it will have a team with it to protect our systems. I would also invest in a few and I do mean a few quick strike rover teams. Their mobility will be key to keeping teams from sneaking into our heartland. I would also encourage you to build up our own military units and beef up the treasury as well. If we do find any lone infantry or rover units approaching our bases lets just subvert them with an offer they cannot refuse. Lastly, I would press Aki for more information on those Hive troops. I would hope that they are on the far eastern side of our southern areas not near the alien nexus manifold device. If they are we could be facing another showdown just like with the aliens.” Constantine said as he stood up and walked around the table giving each of the “founders” a one-page summary of his plan.

“Thank you Constantine for your hard work.” Morgan said cheerfully.

“I want to thank you Director Morgan for this contract and of course the other associate directors but I think my work is done and.”

Morgan cut him off.

“No you are not done. We have one last proposal before you today.” Morgan said as he motioned for his aide to put a P.A.D. down in front of Constantine.

“Director I was pleased to do the work and I was compensated very well but I don’t see what more I could do?” Constantine said in dismay.

Morgan just motioned for him to read the P.A.D.

Constantine picked it up and quickly read it. It was a contract, a big contract. In fact, it was probably the biggest employment contract anyone had every seen.

“Are you really offering me a position on the board, here?” Constantine said in disbelief.

“Yes we are.” Morgan said with a huge smile on his face. “You will be the newest associate director of Morgan Enterprises and our chief of security. You will be responsible for running all of our anti-espionage teams and military. Your authority will be equal to any of the associate directors you see sitting here in this room with the exception of myself. Your compensation package will include full shares in Morgan Enterprises and 100,000 shares and stocks in any other business of your choosing. You will be responsible as well for establishing a military industrial complex center to begin building any forces you deem necessary to hold our borders secure from attacks. Of course, you will have a budget, a small one at first, but we will try to nurse it along as best we can. Our first goal will be to negotiate but we don’t want another repeat of what almost happened last turn. Do you accept?”

Everyone in the room turned to look at Zaitsev. He was stunned.

“I accept.” Constantine replied shakily.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++

Aki-Zeta,

We have received your last communication. We are in the process of determining the extent of your compliance with our directives. When we can confirm the security of our shores then we can begin, again, our business relationships and agreements.

Your information about Hive troops has been evaluated but without “specific” information as to “where” they landed you might as well have told us nothing at all. As a sign of “real” good faith it would be of help to know that information.

If you truly wish to help preserve the peace perhaps you could send us the communication frequency for Chairman Yang? By contacting him we might be able to diffuse a situation before it erupts into violence. It would certainly go a long way to restoring our faith in you as a valuable treaty partner if you would send it. If his troops have indeed landed then it is just a matter of time before we get the frequency the “old fashioned way” so it might be in your BEST INTERST to give it to us now.

In the future all military and espionage information and inquires should be directed to me, Constantine Ivanovich Zaitsev. I am the newest associate director for Morgan Enterprises and the chief of security.

Regards,

Assoc. Director C.I. Zaitsev

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2181

CEO Morgan and Security Chief Zaitsev,

Unfortunately, we did not see exactly what was on the transport. We do know what was at The Hive before it departed, and that was a combination of plasma garrisons, laser equipped plasma garrisons, and impact plasma assault troops. Hive troops have very good morale due to their possession of command centers at all of their bases. Moreover, infantry have a noticeable advantage in attacking bases. They landed near sector 81,101. As we mentioned, this information is given to you as a gesture of good will.

Your request for Chairman Yang’s communication frequency is denied. As has been explained, the Consciousness invested considerable expenditures to build and support our now defunct fleet of sea scouts. I’m sure you would agree that a prudent investor expects a return on his investment.

Aki Zeta-Five
Chair, Consciousness Chancellery

*~*~*~*

Aki finished the recording, switched off the imager, and sent the message. Ryan Gamma-Four and Rebecca Whinn walked in. Rebecca looked agitated, and Ryan impassive. Aki looked toward them.

“We have news,” Ryan said without preamble. “We’ve sighted a rover from another faction.”

Aki’s eyebrows went up, inviting more detail.

“It had a symbol that we retrieved from our Unity database,” he continued as he laid a hardcopy of the image in front of Aki for examination.

Aki took one look and recognized it immediately: a black downward pointing arrow surrounded by a hexagon on a field of gray. “Spartans.”

*&~*~*~*

Director Morgan’s office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2181

“Ah! Constantine come in!”

Morgan stood up and put his arms out welcoming Constantine. The security chief quickly walked into the room and sat down across from Morgan.

“What was so important Nwabudike?” Zaitsev asked curiously?

“Read this.” Morgan pushed a P.A.D. in front of him.

Zaitsev quickly scanned the reply from Aki-Zeta and then handed it back.

“What do you think?” Morgan asked.

“Nwabudike it’s 50/50. If we can trust that witch to give us the correct information then the Hive troops either went east or west from their landing spot. If they went east then they will march until they find nothing. If they march west then they will bump into us very soon. I wish she would have given us a time frame for their landing with that we could have narrowed it down much more.” Zaitsev said as he pulled his own P.A.D. out of his pocket and then activated a map file. He quickly reviewed it and then put it back in his pocket while Morgan simply watched and waited. “I think they went east. Lets assume they past by the Cyborgs 10 to 15 turns ago and then landed at these coordinates and then began their march then if they went west our sensors should have seen them. This is just a guess. I will have my people work on it some more but I think we are okay.”

“Good, good, good.” Morgan replied. “What do make of her rejection of the communication frequency?"

“Stupid, just plain stupid. If she would have given it to us it would have been a clear signal to us that she really meant she wanted to mend fences with us. As to her “claim” about all the expense it took well I am sure they have been paid back for that investment many times now so it is ridiculous to ask us to make up for something that they have most likely already recovered several times over. Anyway its not like they had a huge expense or anything. For the love of God they could have swam across that small strip of water that separates them. Anyway I would be more worried if I were her that if we do bump into Yang that we might just join up with them and form an alliance. We don’t care anything about politics so I doubt our simple form of government will offend this Yang fellow. While on the other hand the Cyborgs much celebrated democracy is sure to piss Yang off. To be honest Nwabudike I think we are going to be okay this time. I still need more funding for military and espionage teams but we will get there.” Zaitsev stood up and motioned towards the bar to get a drink. Morgan nodded in agreement and shook his hand asking him to pour him one too.

“Constantine how tough will these Hive troops be?”

Zaitsev finished pouring the drinks and walked back over and put Morgan’s down in front of him and then he sat down and took a sip.

“Just as bad as the aliens. Even if we had all of the military technology that the Cyborgs do without those command and training centers to get our troops in shape the Hive would blow through us like **** through a goose. Pardon the analogy.” Constantine took another sip and smiled.

“None taken. So negotiations are our only real option if Yang turns hostile.”

Zaitsev just nodded yes.

“Okay, well let me do some thinking on this then. At least we know now not to send our colony pod west but rather south. I like the southern area better myself but the western area did have more resources.” Morgan said absently.

“Look Nwabudike I just want to be clear that I am not sure yet on those Hive troops. Hell they might be coming over the hill now for all I know.”

“Understood.” Morgan replied.

“Okay. Well at least we will be ready to block any espionage incursion. All of our bases now have anti-espionage teams stationed at them. We will be ready to hit them back if they try to sneak in.” Constantine said as he finished his drink. “What do you plan to say to Aki-Zeta?”

“Nothing for now. We need to check out to make sure they left. Once that is done I will talk to her again. I am still annoyed that she tried to lecture me on trading. The nerve! Well, she will learn very quickly that just because her token humans run a free market system that it does not make her an expert. Good faith and friendship can be purchased just like technology and that is something she forgets or never learned. She had a chance to mend fences with me and for all I care I hope those aliens or someone else swoops down on those robots and turns them all into blenders or toasters or microwave ovens, just something useful!”

Both men began to laugh.

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2182

Coronal Santiago graced Aki with a broad smile. “I’m glad we understand each other, magnificently so. We will stand together against the Caretaker threat! They have spread like a cancer all over the globe, and directly threaten Spartan bases. Not that they can succeed, of course, now that we will cut and excise them. May our Pact of Sisterhood crush all that oppose us beneath our heel!”

Aki inclined her head. “Of course.”

“And, in exchange for your technical files I will transmit to you our data on Adaptive Doctrine, Supercomputers, Optical Computers, and Field Modulation. And we can have any technology you have?”

Aki forced herself to smile – an unnatural event. It came out more as a grimace, or a feral grin. “Our Spartan allies may have any Cyborg technology that will aid our struggles against the aliens, Coronal. Any technology at all.”

“Excellent!” Now Santiago leaned back. “It’s too bad about you and Yang, through. We came to an agreement. Too bad you didn’t.”

In a moment of desperation Aki queried the Consciousness: <
The answer came: bravado.

“The Hive will stand no chance against us. Our defenses are impenetrable, and we will be well warned. And we are well prepared, having infiltrated his datalinks long ago. He will pose no threat to us, and should worry more about the aliens. And, perhaps he will see reason and join us in our struggle!”

“Well said, Pact Sister. Well said. Our world maps are being uploaded, Sister. Fare well!”

“Fare well,” Aki responded, and the line went dead.

A second later Aki slipped into the Consciousness, which was abuzz with the news even now. The Consciousness had just acquired 40 years of military technology, a powerful Pactmate, a war with the very powerful Caretakers, and stumbled into a war with the Hive. The last was not a surprise, but the previous three were unexpected and likely to cause chaos.

And, it was likely that Morgan would be getting a visit soon from both the Hive and the Spartans, both of whom were in a very belligerent mood. For his sake she hoped he headed her warnings.

*~*~*~*

Executive exercise center, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2182

“Good to see you using this walker Nwabudike.”

Morgan looked to his left as he watched Constantine Zaitsev walk over and step aboard the walker exercise machine next to him.

“Damn machine.” Morgan grumbled. He hated exercising but his doctor had told they could give him all the pills in the world to keep him alive but he would still need to keep exercising if he wanted them to work at all.

“Don’t be so mad Nwabudike healthy exercise will help you with the tension.” Constantine replied cheerfully.

“Well I would be a lot less stressed if I knew what was going on. Both Unity Consortium’s agents and mine are reporting that the something is up with the Cyborgs, something big. Some seem to be in shock almost while others keep going about their normal routines. It baffles me.” Morgan grunted his reply as the machine began to increase speed automatically.

“Well I have heard the same things and I would suspect that the robots just fell into something they don’t like all that much. I suggest that we stay out of whatever “pot” they fell into.”

“Easy for you to say.” Morgan grunted back as the machine began to work him harder. “Any reports from our scouts on the Cyborgs espionage team?”

“It looks like they left but we are going to check a bit further south to make sure.” Constantine replied quickly. “Still no word on the Hive troops either. If they are out there then they stumbling around in the central desert area to our east so God help them there. If they were not ready for it I am sure they are paying for it. Just to let you know I have completed the plans for our first intelligence-survey ships and they will begin construction very soon. They will cost next to nothing to operate but they will give us a much better picture of our neighbors.” Constantine replied slightly out of breath since he had activated the run cycle on his machine.

Morgan glanced over at Constantine.

“Show off.” Morgan grumbled as he wiped more sweat from his face.

“You would not be feeling so bad right now if you would get down here more.” Constantine fired back.

Morgan said nothing. How could he get down here more? He hated being away from his seat of economic power. Even down here he had to be in contact with his empire and had issued orders to have stock market tickers installed on every piece of equipment “he” might use.

Suddenly the machine began to beep at him telling him he was done. Morgan quickly stepped off of it and grabbed a glass of water with a lemon slice in it and drank it all in one gulp. He then waved the glass in the air and an attendant quickly ran over to fetch him another one.

“Constantine I want you to drop by later today to review those budget proposals again. I am not sure if I want to commit so much of our resources to military expenditure.” Morgan commented as he wiped his face again and became more irritated that the attendant had not returned yet with his water.

“Nwabudike my proposal is modest and you know it. Look we have a good corps of counter-espionage teams but we still need more defense. If the other factions realized how truly weak we are they might just swoop down on us.”

“Irrelevant!” Morgan countered. “What you are talking about is a political change. As long as they keep our economic system who cares what “leader” is in charge. Everyone knows that the person who controls the most credits, ME, is the real power.”

“Keep thinking that way Nwabudike and you might actually get me to go along with it someday. But for now I think it is better we proceed as planned. The board of directors is okay with my plans and you supported me so lets just see what happens.”

Morgan grunted as he quickly took the glass of water from the attendant who had at last shown up and drank it down.

	13-05-2005 16:50									#19
	Support Apolyton

Alpha Prime, MY 2183

CEO Morgan,

We have contacted a third human faction on Chiron, meaning there are five known survivors of the Unity disaster. Our discussions with the other factions have been frank and it seems that you are not the only human faction that has been in direct conflict with the aliens. Each of the other factions are at war with the alien faction called the Caretakers, and one of these factions, the Spartans, is not as fortunate as we are to be on an island isolated from their predations. You have paid tribute to the aliens, but apparently the Spartans are either unwilling or unable to do so. Based on our understanding we are inclined to believe the former.

Santiago of the Spartans made her case in a persuasive manner. You may remember her as the former junior offer to Commander Yang on Unity. She has significant holdings, which are being pressed but, to date, she has more than held her own. We had a considerable exchange of technology to improve their economy and our military. In the end we decided to form a Pact to counter the alien threat, and the Consciousness has joined the rest of humanity in the war with the aliens.

The Consciousness wishes to know if your people are willing to join with the rest of us in our struggles against the aliens. If you wish to remain isolated that is your choice, if a regrettable one. But, if you are interested in forming an alliance with those human factions against the aliens we have the following proposal:

• The Consciousness will give the Morganites the communication channels to all known human factions
• The Consciousness will give the Morganites one technology of your choice to aid in upcoming struggles with the aliens
• The Consciousness will offer the Morganites a Pact of mutual aid to symbolize our alliance against future threats. This would also mean we would exchange world maps
• The Morganites will immediately declare vendetta against the alien faction called the Caretakers
• The Morganites will give the Consciousness Industrial Automation, or another technology if we have already formed a breakthrough in this area, to aid us in our struggles

We are sure that you will understand the implications of this proposal. Not only would you be able to establish trade and technology exchanges with the other factions to enhance your economic and technological base, but you would also gain the protection of an alliance with other powers. There are risks, not the least of which is a vendetta with the Caretakers. However, since they would then be at war with all the humans on Chiron it is likely that any actions against you would be significantly muted, especially since Santiago’s bases are on the same continent as those of the Caretakers.

Consider this proposal with great care. The Consciousness has made its decision, and we hope that we can form a common bond to enhance our current and future relationship.

Aki Zeta-Five
Chair, Consciousness Chancellery

*~*~*~*

Director Morgan’s office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2183

Aki-Zeta,

You offer is most attractive but before Morgan Enterprises can agree or decline your offer we need more information. First, as a sign of good faith we would like to see your map files. As a sign of good faith on our part we have attached our files. I hope you can understand our reluctance to enter into any agreement with your new “alliance” until we can survey the land. We lack a strategic picture of the situation and without that picture it is difficult for us to determine a course of action. Perhaps if we agreed and then found out that the aliens were practically on top of us it could prove to much more disastrous to accept your offer rather than continuing our old policy of non-alignment. This is just plain good business practice to want to “know” what you are buying before you buy.

In addition, we would like for you to provide us with a synopsis of the current geo-political/reality on Chiron as best you know it. We have no idea if we join in this pact that we could be aligning ourselves with an alliance that half the planet is already against. Once again just good business practice.

I will be honest this would not be necessary if it had not been for your attempted actions to steal our technology. We are not fully convinced of your honesty and integrity in this issue or any other. However, by that as it may we are not dismissing your proposal out of hand. We just need more information before we agree.

I hope you will “humor” us in this regard and help provide us with the information we requested. If things turn out for the best then your terms are very reasonable to be sure.

Sincerely,

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++

“Very good Nwabudike, very good indeed.”

“Thank you Constantine. I hope this works.” Morgan reached over and picked up a large brandy sifter and took drink.

“Well, I think you made a good point and it will give us the information we need to make the decision or not. It is clear that the aliens are a threat but if we jump aboard a train wreck how much better off will we be?” Constantine replied as he took a drink as well.

“Well, lets see what the robots have to say and then call a board meeting as soon as possible.”

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2184

CEO Morgan,

The Consciousness is pleased to give you an overview of our current understanding of the geopolitical and general disposition of the known factions on Chiron. The five human factions on Chiron are the Morganites, the Consciousness, the Believers led by Miriam Godwinson, the Spartans led by Coronal Santiago, and the Hive led by Chairman Yang. The known alien faction is the Caretakers and there is evidence of a second alien faction that has not yet been directly contacted by the Consciousness.

The general locations of the factions you are not directly aware of are:
• Believers are north of Morganite territory
• Spartans are evenly west and east of you, half a world away (the distance east and west of you is about equal)
• The Caretakers are west of you and adjacent to the Spartans
• The other alien faction is half a world away in the northern hemisphere

The Consciousness does not possess a map of Caretaker territory, and the map we received from the Spartans and the data we have gathered ourselves only shows a few bases. However, the Spartans have informed us that they believe the Caretakers have a larger number of bases and a larger population base than any other faction.

As a general comparison, the Consciousness has the largest number of bases and population of any human faction, and we have 15 bases and 55 thousand citizens. The Spartans are close behind, with the Believers and Hive with approximately 10 bases and 40 population each. Your number of bases and population is somewhat less than this.

Geopolitically:
• Sparta, Hive, Consciousness, and Believers – vendetta with Caretakers
• Sparta – treaty with Hive and Pact with Consciousness
• Consciousness – treaty with Morganites and Believers, Pact with Sparta, vendetta with Hive
• Believers – treaty with Consciousness

This should satisfy your desire for ‘good faith’, and this information is given to you as a gesture of good will. If you decide to ally yourself with the rest of humanity then we will welcome you. The Consciousness will also respect your desire for isolation, if that is what you wish. But, you should know that with the advent of the trading of technology between other human factions that you have fallen seriously behind, and it will be difficult to catch up. Your resource base, while eminently impressive, may find making its way on Chiron without friends or allies a significant challenge.

Aki Zeta-Five
Chair, Consciousness Chancellery

*~*~*~*

Director Morgan’s office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2184

Aki-Zeta,

I am pleased to announce that Morgan Enterprises will join with you and the Spartans to create a new alliance.

Per the outline of your “pact” agreement we have attached our map files and our files on industrial automation. Prior to final acceptance of this pact we would require a list of available technologies that Morgan Enterprises might select from.

We have two minor stipulations to add to your terms of the agreement that you sent us on 2183. First, I think it is vital to the strength of the alliance that we are given plasma armor technology as a “gift” for joining the alliance. Plasma armor is essential if we are ever to withstand an alien assault. The second technology would be of our “choosing” from the list we have requested as noted in the second paragraph.

The second stipulation is that Morgan Enterprises would not be required to immediately issue a declaration of war. Our military strength is very minimal at this time and to expect us to immediately “join” in your battles would be suicide for us. So at a time of “mutual” agreement Morgan Enterprises will issue a declaration of war at that time provided we have ample means to defend ourselves.

I hope that this minor alteration of the agreement you laid out will not be too much of an issue. I suspect that you have gained greatly with your new alliance with the Spartans and it would be prudent of you to share some of that newfound bounty with us so that we can become a valuable member in our mutual struggle.

We await you response.

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2185

CEO Morgan,

The condition that you declare vendetta on the Caretakers as part of our agreement is not negotiable. This deal was structured to be of maximum advantage to the Morganites since you would have gained all the communication frequencies, the opportunity to trade technologies and establish economic relationships with these factions and be granted a technology of your choice by the Consciousness. The price was your files on Industrial Automation, and a demonstration of your commitment to the cause of humanity. It is regrettable that you do not choose to make that pledge.

If you reconsider the offer will remain open for the time being. In the meantime the Consciousness will attend to other matters.

Aki Zeta-Five
Chair, Consciousness Chancellery

*~*~*~*

Director Morgan’s office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2185

Aki-Zeta,

I am not sure how much you fully comprehend the situation we are in. I sincerely doubt anyone in his or her right minds would ever agree to what you are asking us to do. We have been very forthcoming in our reports as to the strength of our army, such as it is. We have lacked for some time any creditable technology that would give us sufficient defensive or offensive weapons to withstand an attack from the aliens. Now you are asking us to join into an alliance with you and the Spartans and part of that alliance you want us to declare war on the aliens even though we haven’t a single infantry regiment armed with anything stronger then assault rifles. You are mad simply MAD! If you have put yourself into an unfortunate position that you need allies as quickly as possible to help withstand an attack from the aliens we are not it. Likewise Morgan Enterprises Inc. will not become the sacrificial lamb for the slaughter to buy you time to prepare for war against the aliens.

Let me make our position even clearer for you and the all mighty cybernetic conscience. First, if we did agree to a pact with you and the Spartans we would not declare war until we were prepared to do so. However, we would not give any aid or comfort to the aliens even if they threatened us with war. We will work as expeditiously as possible to improve our military situation but that will take time. It is that simple. Once we can both “agree” that Morgan Enterprises Inc. has sufficient defensive capacity then we will declare war on the aliens and not any sooner than then. I hope I have made myself clear. You can either accept my conditions to your agreement or not but I will not move on this issue. We are not warriors but business people here and to ask us to immediately throw ourselves into a conflict is madness, pure madness. If you reject our conditions then we do wish you well and hope you have a successful campaign against the aliens. I for one do not believe that without the full cooperation of all the human factions on Chiron that you will have a chance of winning. So I hope you will decide that it is better to take small steps in this issue rather than ask us to make monumental leaps.

You might also be interested in knowing that we recently made contact with another human faction on Chiron, The Believers. They strike us as a simple people who seem to hold some very strong religious convictions that are of no issue to us so long as it does not interfere with the pursuit of life, liberty the pursuit of good business opportunities. In negotiations with the Believers we were able to obtain files on plasma armor and impact weapon technology. With this technology we now have the basis of building a stronger defensive system without agreeing to a declaration of war on the aliens and risk annihilation before we are even ready to fight! We also agreed to exchange maps and initiated a basic trading agreement. The Believers’ maps were very extensive and have helped us considerably. So we now have more information and a valuable trading partner without risking imminent death with the aliens. This is the relationship we have always wished to foster with you but have not been able to do for reasons best left unsaid at this point.

So I think I have been very fair with you and your alliance in this situation. If you absolutely will not accept my conditions, than as I have said, we wish you good fortune. If you can accept our terms then I would be more than willing to agree to a modified alliance system. Of course, since we have acquired more technology from the Believers we would have to review your list of available technologies to see what would be useful to us.

We await your response.

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++

Morgan finished and turned off the holo-camera and pushed it away from his desk.

“Good response Nwabudike.”

Morgan turned sideways to see his chief of security, Constantine Zaitsev.

“Well, I hope I got through to the robots at last. I admit I was almost stunned when they responded that we would have to declare “vendetta” as they called it immediately. I mean seriously what do they take us for?” Morgan barked.

“Perhaps they are desperate? Who knows at this point? It does seem that their new allies were an unexpected development in their plans if you ask me. Perhaps they are even at war as you suggested the possibility is there.” Constantine replied calmly.

“Either way it is of no difference to us. The Cyborgs are not a very trustworthy people to begin with. We caught them in the process of trying to infiltrate our networks and that is completely unjustified. We might be hard negotiators but that is no excuse to resort to stealing and theft.” Morgan cracked back. He was tired and he knew it. He wanted to resolve this situation quickly with the Cyborgs and move on. The board was split on the issue for the most part and Morgan and Constantine would push the issue either way.

“Well Nwabudike I think we are better off with the Cyborgs then without them. In time we will work things out and we do have time it looks like. The aliens are not as close as we had thought and we have the Believers to thank for that.”

“Agreed but why fight with these creatures in the first place? Why cannot we just reach a peaceful solution and the possibility of doing that is almost nil if we join up with the robots.” Morgan said as he stood up and walked towards the massive window that looked out on the sprawling metropolis of Morgan Industries Inc. Over seven thousand people called this place home now and made a comfortable living as well. Nearly half of Morgan’s entire fortune was generated from this city alone. It would be terrible and irresponsible to risk their lives and his fortune over some dispute over species domination. Who cares who rules or not so long as there is business to be done and profits to be made.

“Nwabudike what will you do?” Constantine said as he walked over to his friend.

“It all depends on what the robots come back with now.”

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2186

CEO Morgan,

The Consciousness understands your positions and regrets your decision. When your military abilities are at a level when you are willing to join with the rest of humanity and declare hostilities against the Caretakers then we can reconsider our offer.

Aki Zeta-Five

*~*~*~*

Chancellor Whinn examined the statement, which was text only. “It’s rather terse, isn’t it?”

Aki looked up. “It is clear and factual, unlike CEO Morgan’s statements.”

“Shouldn’t you add a bit of our reasoning for our decision? Your statement will leave questions in his mind, and concerns.”

“CEO Morgan has been uniformly uncooperative. He purses his goals without regard to others, and his inflexible and ever increasing demands are illogical. If he has questions or concerns he may ask us about them. It is not out place to speculate on his state of mind.”

Rebecca accepted this, even if she didn’t like it. “And what of our probe teams. Have they reached their target?”

Aki’s face was impassive, but Rebecca thought she caught a fleeting glimpse of irritation in her mask like visage. “Our transport reached Caretaker territory, and a probe team disembarked and successfully infiltrated the alien’s data links. The second probe was about to disembark when a Hive foil destroyed the transport and the remaining probe team. The craft was lost with all hands.”

“I’m sorry to hear that,” Rebecca said. “I’ll write a note of condolence to the families, if you like.”

“I accept your offer,” she stated. Aki had little gift for condolences and she knew it. Rebecca would do much better.

“The Chancellery would like to review the Caretaker information,” Rebecca said. “We have a lot of decisions to make.”

“Agreed.”

	13-05-2005 16:51									#20
	Support Apolyton, buy Civilization 2

Director Morgan’s office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2186

Aki-Zeta,

I fully understand the position you are taking though I do not agree with it. I am still uncertain what “value” will the Cyborgs achieve if the aliens immediately attack our territory. I for one see none unless it was your plan from the start to see Morgan Enterprises destroyed.

We have repeatedly explained to you that we are only now in the process of proto-typing an infantry regiment armed with impact weapons and fully equipped with plasma armor. For us to risk antagonizing the aliens at this time would be foolhardy to say the least. My senior security chief, Constantine Zaietsev, is working diligently to build up a creditable force but until we do so we are at the mercy of the fates.

I wish you good fortune as I said earlier in your campaign against the aliens. I can only hope that your efforts will be of value to all of humanity. We will do all that is within our power of giving any aid to the aliens at this time but until we are fully equipped to defend ourselves we will be forced to deal with any situation on a case-by-case situation. Any decisions or exchanges from those negotiations will be promptly reported to you at no charge.

This is all we can offer at this time. Good luck and my profit find you wherever you go.

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

*~*~*~*

Pi Complex, MY 2186

“Pi Complex to Alpha Prime! Priority one transmission!” sensor technician Harlow Phi-One said.

“Still no response?” Base Administrator Sanchez asked.

Harlow looked up at Sanchez, who was one of the few Full Human base administrators in the Consciousness. “Negative.” His voice was no longer somewhat high pitched.

Warren smiled. “Don’t worry. They’ll hear us soon enough. We’ve sent a civilian rover, too.”

Harlow’s eyes retreated, and his face became blank. Warren’s smile disappeared. He saw that Harlow had retreated into the Consciousness, which sometimes happened to junior members of the Consciousness. They did not know how to deal with stress anymore, and sometimes made poor discussions.

Warren gently took the communication visor from Harlow and put it on. Alpha Prime would be calling directly soon and it would not do to be off line because his sensor technician was suffering from a fugue. They would want to know about the Caretaker foil that had just shown up on the perimeter sensors, along with a transport. Luckily the transport was empty, but the obvious question was where were the troops it originally contained. The Consciousness’ sensor net was pretty thorough so it was highly unlikely that it had put ashore in their territory. They could have put ashore on Morganite lands, or in the eastern part of Cyborg territory.

Seconds later the telltale started winking. It was Alpha Prime. Warren activated the link and relayed in information in a calm, rational manner. There was a reason, after all, that this Full Human got on so well with he dour Cyborgs and members of the Consciousness: he played the part very, very well.

*~*~*~*

2-sectors north of Unity Consortium Inc – MORGAN 2187

“When do you think they will leave?”

“What does it matter when.” Enforcer Smith replied as he lowered the binoculars and put them into his pocket. “The Believers just want to sit there so let them sit there. We are selling them food, clothing and other misc. items so why have them move one to somewhere else.”

“Yea, I suppose. But it gives me the creeps no matter what you say. I wish they would leave so we could go ahead and do something else. Sitting out her just “watching” is about all the fun I can stomach right now.”

“Ease up you blockhead!” Smith fired back. “You get paid period for following orders and that’s all you are good for.”

“A bit harsh mate!” Jones joked back half-heartedly. “I mean do we get any extra shares for this ****. I mean I heard about a guy in B-troop that was paid 1,000 credits for helping the Believers sit up came. Just imagine what we could get if we went over and helped them.”

“And abandon your post. NEVER!”

“Suit yourself but a few of the lads and me are going over today to see what we can make. It will be on our own time.” Jones joked back half-heartedly.

“Just keep yapping and I will have you down to a private again so fast it will make your head spin!” Smith fired back hotly.

“Okay sarge, okay. Williams walked over to the large map. “I want your men to redeploy here and here until I get reinforcements arrive. Is that clear?” Joes ordered.

‘Crystal clear sir. Crystal clear.”

*~*~*~*

Pi Complex, MY 2188

“Has your base sustained any damage,” Ryan Gamma-Four asked.

Warren shook his head. “No, Chancellor. The Caretaker foil is bombing our sensor at the end of our peninsula. We did get a good reading on them before they started laying down artillery fire. They have simple shredders on their resonance foil, if you can believe it. But that is more than enough to wreck our sensor grid.”

“Any chance of protecting it?”

“No, no chance at all. We have a former up there, but considering the circumstances we’re better off having it stay put. The only option we have is to send our new crawler up there to harvest and guard our terraforming. Otherwise I’m afraid the foil will systematically destroy all of our terraforming. Oh, and the empty transport is now making its way down our eastern coast. I’d bet they’re on a scouting mission. Bad news.”

“There is another option, Administrator,” Ryan stated. “Start construction on an unarmored artillery defensive unit. No need to get fancy since it will not be likely to ever see combat, except for base or terrain defense. An impact weapon should be able to do the trick. What would construction time be?”

“Don’t know. Maybe two, three years. They could wreck a lot of terraforming in the meantime.”

“We have few options, Administrator. Unless you and your staff can put together a better option then proceed with the artillery.”

“what about a foil?”

Ryan shook his head. “Likely too expensive, but look into it. Report when you have determined your decision.”

*~*~*~*

Morgan’s private transport car, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2188

“So they finally figured out how to make supply crawlers, interesting.”

“Yes they did. I have some reports that seem to indicate that the robots as a result of their new found prosperity are becoming more wealth orientated.” Constantine replied as he shuffled some papers in his lap.

The passenger compartment of Morgan’s transport car was a cross between an office and cocktail lounge. Morgan was going to a meeting at Morgan Data Systems to discuss the possibility of allocating all of the resources there to build a super project.

“So you are telling me we are dealing with a bunch of greedy robots? Great!” Morgan finished off his drink and put it into the cup holder. “Just when I thought that witch could not get any worse she does. I would still like to know how a bunch of robots go from an orderly society in which their leadership organizes and controls production schedules and allocates supplies to a free market system that emphasizes money. Can you answer me that?”

“No I cannot.” Constantine replied irritably. “ I am sure that if circumstances would change then they would change back and then back again. In the overall picture it does not matter to us. What does matter is not the how or the why but what does matter is the end result after they do it. Their society seems to be much more flexible then ours is. They can make rapid economic and social transformations that on the surface don’t seem to make any sense but somehow deep down they can and they do. As it stands now they are quickly becoming our economic rivals and that is of concern to us. More wealth translates into more power and we both know that. I wouldn’t doubt that with their increased wealth they could spend more on science and other projects.”

“Day after day I think we made the right decision in declining that alliance system she proposed. All she wanted was to distract us from our main goal and be forcing us into a war with the aliens she could achieve it.” Morgan grumbled.

“We still need to prepare and focus our efforts into building a creditable force to defend our lands and most importantly our property. We have nearly completed our first infantry regiment equipped with the latest plasma armor designs and impact rifles and cannons. Once we have these soldiers in place we call all sleep a little more soundly.” Constantine corrected.

“Nonsense I have never had trouble sleeping. There is always a solution to a problem without resorting to violence. As for the robots I know see it is in our best interests to keep them at war with the aliens. The longer the robots are tied up with fighting them the worse off their economy will be in the long run. On the other hand we can build our cities in peace and quiet and perhaps even make a little money off of this war between the aliens and robots. If the aliens come calling again perhaps it would be prudent for us to covertly work with them and help them a bit. In the end there will be a winner or loser in this conflict but there will also be Morgan Enterprises as well and we will be all the stronger for it.” Morgan finished as he reached for a holo-vid set and put it on his head. “I think I want to watch a movie for awhile. Please don’t disturb me unless it’s important.”

Constantine watched his boss settle back into the deep leather couch and wondered if Morgan really was serious about helping the aliens. The only problem with doing that would be if they got caught in the process. It could be tricky but it could be done. If the other human factions found out there would be hell to pay indeed. Well, Constantine thought, only time would tell.

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2189

“The Spartans have lost one of their cities in the Monsoon Jungle to the Caretakers,” Ryan Gamma-Four stated. “This was their most heavily fortified and one of their larger cities outside of their core, no doubt due to the benefits of the increased nutrient production. The last information we received indicated that the Caretakers had an impact rover and two armored impact infantry units the participated directly in the assault, while the Spartans had been losing units at a rate of one or two a year. They held out for a long time, but their defenses eventually failed.”

The rest of the Chancellery was grim faced, even the full members of the Consciousness. “Any idea as to why? Has the Consciousness explored this issue?” Rebecca Whinn asked.

Aki Zeta-Five looked over at her. She knew that Rebecca never asked a question without having an answer already prepared: very thoughtful and deliberate, for a Full Human. “There is some evidence as to why the Spartans failed and the Caretakers prevailed in this instance. We know the Spartans are a faction of warriors, and they troops of high ability. They devote their research abilities toward military applications, and most of the military technology we currently have is due to trades from the Spartans. However, their martial orientation deceases their industrial productivity.

“In addition, they are not consistent in their application of the construction of military hardware. The base that fell was producing a network node and not much needed military equipment. This is very difficult for the Consciousness to fathom, and upon further inquiry it seems that the Spartans are constructing infrastructure at approximately a third of their cities. By comparison, our infiltration of the Caretakers indicates that all of their cities are constructing military units. This means that, unless the Spartans alter their basic productive potential and engage their entire economy to their war effort they will likely be slowly ground down by shear weight of numbers.”

Aki called up a holo graphic, which hovered above the Chancellery in their cyber link virtual environment. “This is a representation of the relative strengths of all the Spartan and Caretaker military capabilities. Note sub link two. It shows that the Caretakers have twice as many military units as do the Spartans. Part of this is mitigated by the likely dispersion of their cities, and that some are sea-based cities that are unlikely to contribute to the war effort. But, the point is salient: the Spartans are out gunned, and likely will be for the duration.”

She closed the graphic and called up another one. This one showed two images. The first was a dissected Progenitor. Its carapace was splayed open with military efficiency and, in fast motion, it was carefully taken apart. Much of the interior of the alien was only marginally understandable, and would have been useless except for the Spartan’s doctor’s constant commentary. As he neared the third cranial plate he stopped, and asked his assistants to stand back. He donned a large set of insulated gloves, and had his assistant set up a grounding platform around his person. Then he fully opened the plate. This was followed by an arc of energy the surged through the carapace of the alien, and then to the doctor. Second later the blue surge waned. Recording instruments were back on line, and the doctor explained: “What we just saw was what we call a defensive energy packet. It works on a principle we can’t begin to understand, but we do know it is activated when the alien is attacked. It reinforces the alien’s natural and constructed defenses, and then surges toward the attacker. This makes them very hard to defeat. At this time we have no way to counter this effect…”

The second showed a Spartan war holo of a recent engagement between Spartan and Caretaker forces. As the Spartans advanced in tightly ordered regiments the aliens, who were vaguely greenish blue behind their hellishly red plasma armor, marched across the open field. As they did Spartan gatling guns erupted in precise fire, impaling one alien after another, but, to minimal effect. Much of the energy seemed to simply dissipate, and some others arced back along the line of fire to the Spartans. There were human screams, and a few muffled explosions along the Spartan lines. More Spartan fire was poured on and the lead alien impact infantry succumbed, followed but the unit behind it. The holo winked out as Spartans were starting to determine their condition, and assess the dead and wounded.

Aki started, “At this point there is little we can do. Our free market economy makes extended military action challenging, and the effort we could bring may be of little real assistance unless it was offered in significant numbers. Our assistance can be of three types: direct, supporting, or indirect. Direct support is not a realistic option at present. Our military potential and economic base is not sufficient. A supporting role as a counterattack in another theatre would draw off forces from those attacking Santiago, but that also is problematic. That leaves one real option: indirect support. We can gather additional intelligence, and send intelligence forces to strip the Caretakers of their technology and energy, and gather even more intelligence about their abilities and disposition of forces.”

Aki paused. “To do this we must build up our industrial potential, and expand the number of bases we currently possess. The key to expanding our industrial base is supply crawlers, as demonstrated by the Morganites. We, however, possess abilities the do not: superior force of bases and a larger population, and a larger number of trading partners to gain economic advantages.

“The Consciousness predicts that our industrial base will be at a level where we can begin to support the Spartans in a meaningful way in 10 years. In 20 years we will be able to support them indirectly, and possibly forcefully. Beyond this time the projections become more prone to significant error, and are not worth serious consideration due to the large amount of inaccuracy.

“There are other options,” Aki concluded. “But these may offend some in the human community, and should only be effected at greatest need.”

Aki looked around the virtual meeting and saw heads nodding. They all knew what this meant for them, and for the future diplomacy of humanity. It would not be a pretty sight.

	13-05-2005 16:52									#21
	Support Apolyton, pre-order Civilization IV

Dockyards, Morgan Entertainment Inc. – MORGAN 2189

“It’s not pretty.”

Both men chuckled for a few minutes at the obvious remark. The sea-former had docked again to take on supplies and materials to complete its mission, which was to establish the first kelp farm on Chiron. Even now in the estuary near the docks large floating islands were being built as small bases for the farmers to work from.

“Mr. Gray as long as they are working I don’t care.” Nwabudike commented as he continued to watch the ship finish taking on supplies. “When will the sea farm be operational?”

“In a few more turns Director and the sea farming modules will be ready at nearly the same time. We should be able to harvest as much nutrients from these sea sectors as we do from our most richest land farms. We also have plans on adding tidal wave energy collectors to boost our energy production.”

“Smart thinking Mr. Gary, very smart thinking.” Nwabudike complimented his most able city manager. Even the city manager at his own city could not meet the production quotes that Gray did.

Morgan was fascinated by the entire process and knew that this system would be keep to feeding many of his customers one day. For now once again Morgan was on the cutting edge of technology and he was going to be a rich man again. Nothing seemed to be going wrong for him right now and that slightly worried him. Constantine kept him informed of the world around him but it all seemed so unimportant in many ways. The Spartans and Cyborgs seemed to be determined to lock horns with the aliens and fight them. Well so be it, let them waste valuable resources for nothing. For now Morgan would just sit back and see how the wind would blow and then make a decision when the time was right.

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2190

“…and the aliens have 15 percent more bases, and almost 21 percent more citizens that we do,” Ryan stated. “Their army is twice as large as either ours or the Spartans. Our options are limited.”

Rebecca was irritated. “We’ve been over this already, First Chancellor. We’ve already decided that our primary necessities are to defend our homeland, develop our economy to achieve superiority over the aliens, and then we can deal with them as we see fit.”

“…but the Consciousness has predicted,” he started.

“Well screw your Consciousness, then! All I hear is doom and gloom, how we can’t do this and we can’t do that. You have totally lost focus on what we can do, and do very well, and how that will propel us to be able to achieve all of our goals: research. Perhaps you’ll remember that our scientific output is over six times that of our nearest competitors, the Hive, Spartans, and even the terrifying Caretakers! Six times! That and the fact we may be able to trade other factions for technology will over time give us a growing lead in capabilities. I’d even hazard to bet that 180 terraquad of research our labs turn out each year is more than ‘ol Moneybags can manage, too. He’d probably be pissing in his pants to hear we’ve pulled that far ahead, being a motley collection or robots, Cyborgs, and half breeds.”

Rebecca lost a bit of steam, and Aki stepped in. “Colorful language is not required to make your points, Chancellor, even if they are valid ones. Now, we will return to our agenda. The Caretaker foil has now started bombarding our supply crawler that is harvesting resources at the mine. No damage reported. The impact artillery at Pi Complex is complete and will move out soon. At that point we will see if the impact artillery will be successful in dealing with the unarmed foil…”

*~*~*~*

Main assembly hall, Morgan Defense Systems Inc. – MORGAN 2190


“So this is what you have been spending our money on.”

Constantine looked over at Nwabudike and gave him a half-smile. “Nwabudike you knew exactly what we were doing here its why you allowed me to set-up this city in the first place. Morgan Defense Systems Inc. will be the premier center for designing new defensive and offensive weapon technologies for Morgan Enterprises. The infantry regiment standing in front of you is the result of that investment. They have latest plasma armor technology along with the most powerful impact energy rifles we can manufacture. Now that we have completed a production run for all of their equipment subsequent production runs will be all the easier and less costly to do.”

Morgan grunted in reply. It still seemed like a waste to him. Money spent on military items rather than industrial production was insane. He would rather see it put into scientific efforts rather than weapon systems not that Morgan Enterprises needed more scientists at this time. Morgan Data Systems Inc. had recently reported that the cumulative date achieved by all of Morgan Enterprises and Unity Consortium labs and facilities had reached a staggering 128 terraquads of information! What was even more striking is that their was no end in site. All of core cities were had long ago established enough supply crawlers to handle the day-to-day task of resource collection and processing so that now no new manual laborers were needed. People were able to bid on technical positions or scientific occupations with relative ease. Morgan Industries had over 2,000 technicians and over a 1,000 scientists and data information specialists working almost night and day on projects. It was a most impressive statistic much more so than a room full of soldiers. Morgan suddenly realized that Constantine had been talking to him but he had not paid attention.

“Nwabudike have you been listening?”

“Sorry I was just thinking about something important. I will try and pay more attention” Nwabudike fired back irritably.

“Well, please do. As I was saying we face the same problem as the robots do, motivation.”

“Motivation?” Morgan questioned. “Why motivation? Don’t these fellows get paid?” Morgan made a sweeping motion with his hand as he waved at the soldiers in front of him.

“Yes but they could be making more, a lot more, if they were private citizens not soldiers. It’s hard to recruit quality candidates as it stands now and it would be even worse if we deployed them out of our territory. The bonus payments would never compensate them enough for the hardships so they will most likely not have a vested interest in fighting hard. That’s why our next project will be building large scale training and command centers to help improve morale.” Constantine explained as they began to walk towards a man standing in front of the soldiers. He was dressed the same armor and had the same weapons as the other soldiers but he had large gold stars painted on his armor on each shoulder.

“Nwabudike allow me to introduce Brigadier John Williamson. Brigadier Williamson is the man I selected to be our field commander of all our troops. He will be responsible for overall military command when in the field and the day to day running of our new army.” Constantine said as he shook the Williamsons’ hand.

Nwabudike put his hand out too but the Brigadier ignored it and quickly snapped to attention and saluted Morgan.

“I forgot to mention as CEO and as Senior Director of Morgan Enterprises you are essentially Brigadier Williamson’s commander-in-chief.” Constantine quickly explained.

Morgan stood there for a few seconds wondering what he was to do and then he looked again at Constantine who silently mouthed to him to “salute”. Morgan quickly understood and then made a half-hearted attempt to salute the brigadier back.

“It is good to meet you Brigadier.” Morgan said warmly.

“It is good to meet you to sir. I wont let you down. My men and I will make sure Morgan Enterprises Inc. will be a safe place to live and work in.” Brigadier Williamson said confidently.

“Right.” Morgan said slowly. “Okay then well thank you again Brigadier for having your men come today and show me their guns and stuff I suppose. I will be talking with you again soon.”

Morgan began to turn around but the brigadier saluted him again. Morgan stopped in half stride and quickly tried to salute back. As soon as his finished Williamson spun around on his heels and began yelling orders to his men. Morgan quickly walked to the door with Constantine in tow.

“I tell you one thing I don’t ever want to do that again. How unnerving!” Morgan whispered.

“You will get used to it.” Constantine quietly replied as he opened the door for Morgan. Morgan stopped at the threshold of the door for second and turned to his friend.

“So you say the robots have the same problems as we do with morale.” Morgan questioned.

“Yes I am afraid they do. Also, in addition to the moral problems if their troops would leave their territory to fight overseas great unrest would break out from the resulting economic strain that base city would have to bear in supporting those troops. So long as the troops stay in their territory the support costs are low but if they leave we will have to raise rates on just about everything to pay for them and I am sure that will make many people mad.” Constantine patiently explained.

“So if the robots are at war with the Aliens and are partners with the Spartans most likely they have done nothing whatsoever to help them with direct military aid?” Morgan asked.

“Most likely.” Constantine commented. “I would suspect they might be giving credits or information as a sign of support but no military aid. To do so would critically destabilize their nation to the point of chaos.”

“Wonderful allies these robots.” Morgan replied sarcastically. “They want other nations to fight the great alien threat but will do nothing to put their asses on the line or should I say metal asses on the line to defend their allies. I bet the Spartans love that. It just goes to show you how right I was not to join in their pact. If I had then I suspect we would have been their northern shield against the aliens. We would have fought and died to defend our lands and all they would have given us some credits or information and an “at’ a boy”, wonderful!”

Constantine nodded in agreement.

“So if they want to go on the offensive they will once again have to do a huge shift in their economic systems so that their nation can afford and support an overseas campaign.” Morgan commented.

“Constantine nodded again.

“Well if I were the Spartans I would be screaming for help every day and demanding that they put their asses on the line. I doubt they are producing more credits than we are right now so even if they were giving most of it away I doubt it would be that useful on the battlefield. You know Constantine at this very moment I feel sorry for those Spartans I really do.” Morgan said as he turned to leave again.

“As do we all Director, as do we all.”

*~*~*~*

Pi Complex, MY 2191

“More incoming!”

A series of dull retorts echoed along the peninsula. The aliens had been bombing their positions for weeks now.

“Where did it hit?” Second Lieutenant Colins asked.

“Checking,” the voice said. “Got it - about a sector away. That’s even farther than before.”

Colins snorted. “You know, for advanced aliens that are a threat to humanity and the civilized world the bugs are lousy shots. What is our status?”

“Artillery reloading. Defensive fire will be on line momentarily,” he stated.

“Good, good. Do we have any info on the alien foil?”

“A little has been relayed by our former that is rebuilding the sensor, and the supply crawler crew, who, incidentily, are thrilled we’re here to take the fire for them. Anyway, they report that our fire damaged them considerably. Even better, our defensive fire seems to be getting to them, too. The crawler crew said the foil is listing now. We seem to have started wrecking their hull.”

“I’m glad to hear that, and so will the Chancellery. Any damage to your artillery yet? Causalities?” Colin asked.

“Nope, not a bit. They didn’t offer any counter fire when we bombarded them, and our defensive fire seems more than adequate. If they’re not careful we’ll sink them!”

“Well then, keep at it. They won’t be able to move very fast now that they’re hulled, so you may be able to take the northern road to keep up the bombardment if they try to bug out.”

There was muffled laughter over the communication line. “Good one, Sir. We’ll keep at ‘em. Gunnery Sergeant Zukowv out.”

*~*~*~*

Fred Firestone’s apartment, Morgan Anti-Matter Inc. – MORGAN 2191

“Wilma we are moving back!”

Wilma Firestone ran from her bedroom upon hearing her husband yell.

“What do you mean moving back?” She questioned.

“I just got that promotion I had been talking about. Of course the buy in was steep but I was just able to pull it off. You are now looking at the newest junior vice-president of Morgan Industries wood processing corporation!” Fred said proudly. “We leave almost immediately so sell everything you can, we can buy new stuff when we get there.”

“Congratulations Fred but “where” are we going?” Wilma replied.

“Well back to Morgan Industries Inc. you silly!” He said as he gave his wife a big kiss at the end.

“Oh thank the great businessman in the sky!” She exclaimed. “Back to the real word with real entertainment!”

“Now Wilma it’s not been that bad, has it?” Fred asked soothingly as he held her in his arms.

“Yes it has. When was the last time we went on a holo-vacation? Well I can tell you when it’s been over a decade. I want to move back so badly I could almost taste it. So tell me all about it.” She exclaimed.

Fred began to explain the whole arrangement to her including all of the perks of the jobs and living accommodations. As a junior vice-president of engineering he would be expected to “wine and dine” if required. It was all so very interesting to Wilma that she completely forgot about her wash that needed to be hung.

“Oh Fed I just could not be more happy!” She kissed him again and then went back to her work.

Fred Firestone watched her leave and he decided that he was the luckiest man on Earth right now.

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2192

“And you think it was worth trading the Secrets of the Human Brain to Santiago for the communication frequency of the other alien, this Conqueror Marr?” the new Chancellor Harkin asked.

Aki considered Steven Harkin, an obvious Cyborg. His implants were displayed with an almost artistic relish that offended Aki’s sense of decorum. After all, one’s abilities should be proven, not advertised. “Chancellor, this trade was worth the exchance for several important reasons. First, it was a way for us to transfer a basic defensive technology to the Spartans in a way that saves them face from having to receive a gift. You may not be aware of this, but the Caretakers employ alien life forms as part of their assault troops. This can do our allies great harm, and the basic abilities of hypnotic trance will allow them to survive these attacks.

“Second, it is in our best interests to be fully aware of all factions that are on Chiron. We know of four other human and now two alien factions. Most of the globe is still dark to us, and it is possible there are more. We knew there was likely to be an alien faction, and based on our infiltration that the aliens the Caretakers were at war with the other alien faction.”

Aki fixed her cold stare at the Cyborg. “The old attage ‘enemy of my enemy’ may apply in this case. We will need every advantage in helping humanity and the Spartans in particular.”

Aki paused and continued her stare. “Now that you have been educated, do you still believe that it was unwise to assist our ally? Or to enhance our understanding of those that inhabit this planet?”

Chancellor Harkin did not hesitate. “No, Aki Zeta-Five. As always, yours is wise.” He graced her with a shallow bow.

Aki detected a hint of sarcasm in his message and mannerisms. But, that was not matter. Now she had to place a call with Conquer Marr.

*~*~*~*

The aliens looked substantially the same, but Conqueror Marr’s carapace showed obvious abrasions and apparent scars that suggested battle wounds.

“Greatness of Usurpers: obvious, must be acknowledged. Mere humans, invaders: weak, of little worth. Usurpers: powerful, impact weapons to be feared. Conquer Marr demands, to be met: Gene Splicing.”

It took Aki a moment to decipher the language. “Conqueror Marr, the Consciousness will not yield these secrets to…”

The alien interrupted. “Human Believers, weak: must be destroyed. Conquer Marr demands, to be met: Consciousness declare vendetta on Believers. Comply.”

“No, we will not…”

Conquer Marr lunged forward. “Consciousness weak, fall before Usurpers: vendetta declared. Your flesh: feed conquerors. Communication: ended.”

The holo link winked out, and the rest of the Chancellors emerged from a side door into the conference chamber.

“That did not go well,” Ryan Gamma-Four commented.

“No, it did not,” Aki said. “We know where we stand now, at least.”

	13-05-2005 16:53									#22
	Support Apolyton or Terrorists Win

Director Morgan’s office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2192

Aki-Zeta,

As a courtesy to you and the “Conscience” I am offering to you as part of an equal exchange our map files for yours. We have been able to make some lucrative exchanges since last we communicated and as a result you might find our maps of equal value now. If you choose not to accept the exchange then that is your affair and nothing else will be said.

In addition, you might be wondering about our current situation. Well, I can tell you it couldn’t be better. Perhaps fortune shines on those who keep their nose to the grind stone and out of other people’s affairs but for whatever reason we have enjoyed a very peaceful and prosperous time. We are about to begin another phase of expansion in which we hope to establish another three colonies within the decade. We don’t see any problems with this plan since our economic capabilities seem more than up to the task. We currently generate over 50 mega-credits per turn of pure profit and that is after we account for a hefty expenditure in our science and research programs. Peace has been good to us. However, even though we have enjoyed a wonderful period of healthy expansion and prosperity we have not been lax in our commitment to defense. We recently completed our first plasma armored infantry regiment with impact energy weapons. However, it will still be some time before we can complete a general upgrade of our entire defense force.

I will tell you something of importance and we will not charge you at all for the information and that is the aliens have not approached us since the last time we met which was ages ago. So you can be assured that no technology has been transferred to the aliens. In fact, we recently tried to contact them but they reacted quiet violently to even the suggestion so we decided to end the conversation before it began. I would really suggest that perhaps your alliance look to other means to secure peace rather than war. Our farsighted gesture of “gifting” the aliens some technology established a period of unparalleled prosperity for Morgan Enterprises Inc. I would be willing to try and intervene on your behalf, for a nominal charge, if you would want us to.

Lastly, we expect to make a breakthrough next turn that most likely will be in the field of military science. We expect that the technology that was pioneered by one of my most able associates, associate director Constantine Zaitsev, will help improve the morale of troops and make them braver on the battlefield. If you already have this technology then of course we will continue to find another technology that you don’t but if you don’t please let me know and I will attach it to my next transmission as part of our earlier agreement. We would then consider that exchange completed and the contractually terms fully discharged.

Lastly, our scientists recently reported that the native “animal” life forms on Chiron seem to be reacting differently and with more vigor. At one point you mentioned that you had in your possession technology that might help to “shield” people from the effects of an alien attack. Once again we are taking your word on this since even as of today we have yet to be attacked by anyone! (With the exception of your aborted espionage attack on us. Which I will not go into detail on now since I don’t want to sour this exchange) Here is my offer for your “trance” technology. I would be willing to purchase from you trance technology for the hefty sum of 25 mega-credits! I know, I know, I am sure you are asking yourself that I am overpaying you for it but since you are fighting such a noble struggle for humanity I feel the money would help your cause and help secure humanity’s future. So please don’t be afraid to accept our offer as generous as it is. You are fighting the good fight over there and I want you to know how much I appreciate it.

With warmest regards!

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2193

CEO Morgan,

The Consciousness is pleased to hear from you again and to understand that your people are doing well. At this time we are not interested in exchanging map files. When we first met the Believers we exchanged map files in exchange for our data on High Energy Chemistry (which she subsequently traded to you), and it is highly unlikely that they have explored more of Chiron than they did at that time. Perhaps after your faction has explored more of Chiron and you have a greater understanding of Chiron we can consider this exchange again, since at that time the transaction may be mutually profitable.

Your offer to exchange the Secrets of the Human Brain is an interesting one, and the Consciousness is willing to sell this valuable technology to you for the sum of 50 megacredits. Since this is the yearly surplus your people enjoy this seems like an adequate transaction: your people gain this ability for your defensive and offensive units, and the Consciousness receives a small boon to acknowledge our good will.

We look forward to your next technology breakthrough. Perhaps we could conduct another such exchange after this transaction is complete.

With friendship,
Aki Zeta-Five
Chair, Consciousness Chancellery

*~*~*~*

Director Morgan’s office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2193


Aki-Zeta,

I was somewhat disappointed that you declined my offer to exchange maps. I can assure you the quality of our map files are very high indeed. I think you would be very surprised at how extensive the Believers map files were. But it is your choice to be sure!

Because you are such a valuable customer to Morgan Enterprises I was able to convince the board to authorize ANOTHER 10 mega credits to our offer bringing the grand total to a staggering 35 mega-credits! I do hope that you will see that our compensation package is most reasonable for the technology we wish to purchase. I am afraid that if you continue to insist on 50 mega-credits for that technology it will nullify our offer. As I have repeatedly mentioned we have never been attacked or even seen ANY of these creatures you have mentioned so even though we would like to have purchase this technology it is in no way critical to our needs. I have to admit I was a bit embarrassed for you when you asked for 50 mega-credits. Even though I had mentioned that our annual corporate profit topped 50 mega-credits an astute businessperson would never “peek into a customer’s pocket to see how much money he has and then charge him that amount.” But I immediately told myself that the Cyborgs are relatively “new” to the free market system and you might make a blunder or two along the way while learning the nuances of the free market system. I would be more than willing to send you, at a nominal charge, my complete works on free markets economics titled “Money it IS what makes the world go around”.

I would hope you quickly accept my offer so that we can complete the transaction and you can immediately begin to incorporate the new technology we wish to transmit to you as part of our earlier bargain. You never know when a solar storm or other such anomaly might happen that would cause communications to break down. Remember that old saying the early bird gets the worm? Well, I am sure that sound economic principal is applicable today in this situation. Don’t wait seize this opportunity before it slips through your fingers!

Well, once again I want to thank you and your people for the valiant work you are doing to secure humanities position on this planet. Go get’em team!!!

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2194

“What does ‘Go get’em team!!’ mean?” Aki asked the rest of the Chancellors.

Rebecca had a slight smile on her face when she said, “He is attempting a type of patriotic fervor for our position to curry favor with our position against the Caretakers without really supporting it. It is a level of argumentation that appeals to the viewer’s emotion, and heightened sense of group.”

“That is illogical,” Aki stated.

“Yes, it is. But not for many people,” Rebecca explained. “Keep in mind that Morgan is keenly aware of the human condition, and how that interacts with economics. His actions and reactions are predicated on this relationship, sometimes to the exclusion of all else. His actions are rational within his paradigm.”

“We do not use his paradigm. Why does he attempt this technique on the Consciousness?”

“Probably for several reasons. First, he may not fully understand our society and therefore reacts to it based on his preconceived notions of appropriate behavior. Second, he may think he understands our society and has crafted his response to attain maximum advantage. Or, he could be targeting the Full Humans and perhaps some of the Cyborgs in our society. They do represent a sizable minority, and Morgan must know this. His approach could be layered to appeal to all three types of Consciousness citizens, although his wording would indicate that his approach is not nearly that subtle.”

“Agreed,” Aki said. Then she turned her gaze to the rest of the Chancellors. “Register you opinions on CEO Morgan’s proposal.” Aki paused as the votes were registered.

“The vote is to approve, with a tally of six for and one against. Chancellor Whinn, please craft a response to CEO Morgan’s proposal for approval by the Chancellery.”

Rebecca nodded. She looked well satisfied.

*~*~*~*

CEO Morgan,

Your proposal to purchase our files on the Secrets of the Human Brain for 35 megacredits is acceptable. The Consciousness has lost a terraformer and a city defender to native attacks, and has had to destroy three native life forms before they were attacked. Although you have not suffered any of these attacks to date it is best to be prepared, especially since the trance protection can be added to defense units for no additional cost.

We are please you have made the breakthrough in Intellectual Integrity and that, in keeping with our previous agreement, these files will be included as part of the transfer of intellectual property. After this transfer is complete the Consciousness would be willing to consider transferring to you one of the six technologies we possess that you do not have with the understanding that any new technology that you develop would be made available to the Consciousness. At this time we have five military technologies that pertain to advanced armor and weaponry, and one economic technology Adaptive Economics.

With friendship,
Consciousness Chancellery

**~*~*

Constantine Zaitsev’s command center, Morgan Data Systems Inc. – MORGAN 2195

Constantine did not like this latest development. The Hive had built a sea colony not far from Unity Robotics Inc. city. On the surface it seemed to be minor event, a blip at most on the radar but something seemed to nag at him about it.

He had watched steadily as the Hive built sea cities that stretched across the small sea the separated their two factions and now they had reached Morgan Enterprises Inc. territory.

It was a blip he kept telling himself, nothing more and yet he could not leave it alone. The new intelligence/covert operations ships were nearly done and this sea city would be the first “target” for them. It was crucial that Morgan Enterprises “knew” what the Hive was up to. Perhaps they could at long last secure a treaty with them and thus establish a power bloc to thwart any moves that the robots might make. As far as he knew the Hive and the Robots were still at war.

That sea base again! Constantine kept glancing back at the map on his desk and wondering. Those idiot robots kept declining any trade for map files when any new information gathered was better than no information at all. They would also be very shocked at how extensive the map files were. Well, it was clear that the robots were completely focused on their battle with the aliens and all the better for Morgan, Constantine and the other directors since it allowed them to concentrate on building a more powerful business empire.

Only time would tell now who made the right decision.


++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+++++++++++++


Aki-Zeta,

As much as it would please me to make another arrangement with you I feel at this time that it would be more “prudent” for us to see what technology we develop first rather than making a commitment to you. I see no reason at this time why we would need anymore-military technology when what we have is sufficient. Our plasma armor and impact weapons are more than up to the task of defending our lands. If you would be willing to give us some of this military technology as part of a new proposal to add Morgan Enterprises to your alliance then of course we could review that and advise you.

As it stands now we would prefer to continue with our current policy unless a new more profitable proposal is before us for consideration.

Once again it was both pleasant and profitable to talk with you again,

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2195

Chancellor Harkin stood. “Chair, this is an issue we must address! Our bases are producing supply crawlers so fast that we are running our to terraformed territory for them to utilize! Therefore, I move that bases that have reached near their maximum industrial production build at least one former, and then switch to additional infrastructure.”

“Agreed,” Aki said.

Steven Harking was about to object in the most strenuous terms. Then he realized he had won and, for once, was at a loss for words.

Chancellor Whinn rose to be recognized and continued, “We should not neglect our defenses. In particular, I propose we start construction of foil probes. These would primarily be used to acquire technology form the Caretakers, but also acquire any technology the Hive might have acquired, and divert his energy reserves to more appropriate hands.” Rebecca waited for a few good-humored chuckles but was disappointed. It was so hard working with members of the Consciousness sometimes.

“Agreed,” Aki stated. “Please work with the base administrators and arrange for the construction of foil probes. The only stipulation is that these bases must have completed basic infrastructure, be stable, and have access to the western or northern seas. Are there any other issues?”

“Yes, there is,” Ryan Gamma-Four stated. “Our recent breakthrough in Doctrine: Initiative gives us the ability to construct the Maritime Control Center project. I propose that one of our high-productivity interior bases be identified for this project, and that surplus supply crawlers be allocated to speed its completion. This project, while interesting, is not critical to our needs. It would be of some advantage to us since we are separated from our friends and enemies by seas. Even if we never complete the project, its resources could be diverted to other purposes if a more useful project becomes available.”

“Thank you, Ryan Gamma-Four. Considering the magnitude of your proposal, and the resources involved, this will be examined by a Consciousness thought unit, and separately by a Cyborg and Full Human discussion committee. These groups will then pool their observations to make a recommendation. Is this acceptable?”

Ryan nodded. No more needed to be said.

“Very well. There are no additional items to be discussed. This meeting is dismissed.”

With that all the images winked out, and the virtual room ceased to exist.

*~*~*~*

Executive boardroom, Unity Consortium Inc. – MORGAN 2195

“Alisa why would we sell our terraforming options to Morgan? What would we gain?”

Alisa rubbed her hand over her the smooth portfolio that was in front of her. The cool simulated-leather felt good under her hot hand. She had been at this for hours and she was tired. Many of the board members or “founders” had been steadily falling under Morgan’s sway. Just last week one of the six founders sold his entire holdings to Morgan so that he could retire and he had never once even asked his associates if they wanted first opportunity to buy them. Now she was locked in a battle with her own board members to convince them that even though terraforming was profitable the need for something else was more important.

“We would gain another city, that’s what we would gain. Morgan is already in the process of establishing two more cities and he has the materials ready to build a fourth. Our three cities are not ready yet to even begin the process. If we sell Morgan our rights to terraforming we get those assets he has marked for that third colony pod. Once we get the city up and running we can try to re-buy those shares from Morgan over time if we exercise those options.” Alisa patiently tried to explain for hopefully the last time.

Everyone in the room began to talk again but Alisa had had enough of it. She grabbed her gavel and banged it a few times and then everyone was quiet.

“Listen I am calling for a vote now. Do we accept it or not, I vote yes.”

Alisa looked at the second most senior director and he nodded yes. Each of them all agreed in short order to accept the proposal. It was done.

The next colony pod would be Unity Dockyard City Inc. And it would be responsible for increasing the Consortium’s control over the sea. However, for now it was key that they complete even more terraformers and more supply crawlers so that all Consortium holdings prospered.

“All right I will contact Morgan when we are done and agree to the deal. We will be able to buy back our terraforming contracts within a decade from this date. The prices will be fixed so that we can begin accumulating resources to buy those lucrative contracts back. Thank you again.”

Everyone in the room begin to leave except Alisa who stayed behind. She quickly realized that the boards of directors from the old Unity mission were really not up to the challenge before them today or any day. It was time to buy them out so that she could go toe to toe with Morgan and see who could win.

	13-05-2005 16:54									#23
	Support Apolyton, buy Civilization 2

Mu Cresent, MY 2196

“What do you mean, the road is gone?” terraformer chief Sean Wayless demanded.

“Just that, sir. Gone. Just gone.” The civilian looked a little frightened.

Wayless glowered at him. We’ve had a farm ‘disappear’, and now a road. This makes no sense! How can they disappear? Now, don’t you mean destroyed?”

“Not sure. All I know is what my other crews tell me, and they tell me that a farm disappeared in the last few years, and we just finished rebuilding it. Now a road’s gone missing.”

Sean pursed his lips and thought for a moment. “****. Shitshitshitshit! I know what this is!” He jogged across the newly created farm field just north of Mu Crescent, crushing the alfalfa under his feet as he went. He paid no attention to the carefully tended rows, or the fact that if he stepped a third of meter to either side he would cause no damage. A few minutes later he reached his old terraformer, cycled the lock, and impatiently waited inside until the atmosphere was replaced. Finally the interior cycled and he dared inside, and made for the communication station.

He picked up the headset, accepted the laser ping in his right eye, and activated the VR. “Wayless to Delta Marsh. Emergency transmission. Assistance needed immediately!”

A vaguely humanoid form appeared. It was his old friend Sarah. “Stop shouting. What do you need?”

“We have one of those spoor launchers, probably hiding in the fungus! Get your base administrator, Baylor or something like that, I think, and get him to send your rover over now! It’s already destroyed a farm and a road, and a forest too, I think. We have to take it out ASAP!”

“Is this confirmed? Sarah asked.

“Of course not! What more evidence do you need? A farm disappeared, for heaven’s sake! Just get the rover over hear now, and we’ll find where to send them. Can you do that?”

“Sure, sure. I’m sure the administrator will be OK with that. We have an extra garrison, an impact rover. They’ll be over soon.”

“Good!” Wayless said. “I’ll stay on the link in case you need me. Wayless out.”

*~*~*~*

Office of Director Morgan, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2196

“I want to thank you again Chairman this has been a very illuminating conversation today and I want to thank you once again for your generosity today. You are a shrewd businessman Mr. Yang make no mistake about it!”

“Director Morgan if you are trying to flatter me it won’t work. I do not respond to such trivial things. I have gotten what I want and you have gotten what you want, it is as simple as that. Now will you denounce your treaty with the Cyborgs? We are at war with them and they seek to dominate us to put us under their yoke of tyranny.” Yang fired back hotly.

Morgan quickly realized it was time to end this conversation and end it now.

“Chairman I agree Aki-Zeta and her people can get to be a bit “much” from time to time but I have not seen any inclination towards world domination. I am simple businessman Mr. Yang, just a simple businessman trying to make an honest days work. So I appreciate your insights when it comes to Aki-Zeta but for now I think if we just let things remain in the “status quo” area I am sure we can work something out that will be satisfactory for everyone. Once again I want to thank you Mr. Yang for your time and I will talk with you again. Nwabudike out.”

Morgan cut the line.

“Whew!” Morgan pulled a fungus silk handkerchief from his pocket and dabbed his head. I thought I might loose that one, it was close.”

“I wasn’t worried at all sir.” Morgan’s aid said encouragingly.

“Well, we did make out like bandits didn’t we!” Morgan chuckled and then pulled out the data sheet again and whistled when he went over the list of technologies they had picked up. “Well, I am sure Constantine will be very happy about this “gatling laser” technology and this pulse armor stuff and of course the artillery technology as well and so much more. The map files alone were worth the call in the first place!”

“Sir did no you notice at that one point when you asked Yang to stop fighting with the Cyborgs he seemed to let something slip about “orders had to be followed” and something else about a “contract agreeing to her destruction” what do you think that was all about?”

“Well I can bet one thing, the aliens. Where we decided to take a neutral stance on things it seems Yang is with the aliens or some of them. I can never keep them straight as it is; I mean they all look alike to me. But it does seem that that Aki-Zeta and her robots are not only fighting aliens but humans as well. If I tally the teams up correctly that leaves the robots and Spartans on one side and on the other you have the Caretakers and Hive, I think and then the Believers are fighting the Usurpers? It is all too confusing sometimes but it really adds up to a mess when you think about it.” Morgan said dejectedly.

“Sir do you think we can remain neutral?”

“I will do my best and my best will be whatever makes us the most money and you can take that to the bank!” Morgan stood up and stretched. “Write up a press release about our new trade relations and all that. Make sure you put in all the standard stuff about future business relations could not look brighter, more technology for Morgan Enterprises, profits to skyrocket, blah.. blah,, blah. Get it out right away so I can see how quickly my stock rises. I would expect a full 3% increase in my total portfolio if my name is not Nwabudike Morgan!”

“Sir should I make this a world wide release?” His aide asked.

“Of course!” Morgan chortled. “Let the Cyborgs stew on that one for a while. Logic or not their leverage is fading quickly with us when it comes to their “corner” on certain information. The only faction we have not made contact with are these Spartans and frankly I doubt they are much longer for this work anyway if Constantine is correct. So long as the robots hold back direct help the Spartans will not have a chance. So yes, send it out and lets see what else gets stirred up and what other profit we might make today. In fact,” Morgan hesitated for a second. “Include this little bit of information to Aki-Zeta that Morgan Enterprises wishes to try to act as a mediator between the Cyborgs and Hive and as such we wish to bring a swift conclusion to this conflict. In addition, send a note to Aki asking her what would she be willing to pay us if we promised to withhold future technology, weapon technology from the Hive? That might get her!”

Morgan began to laugh; yes it had been a good day indeed!

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2197

CEO Morgan,

We are in receipt for your demand for a bribe to limit your current trade relationship with the Hive. The Consciousness will entertain such demands, but will view them in the manner in which they are proffered.

The Consciousness will offer one additional item for you to contemplate. We are monitoring the scientific advances of the Hive very carefully. If they should come into possession of technology that has a negative effect on the Consciousness and it is apparent that your faction is the cause of this Hive acquisition then our friendship treaty will be immediately terminated.

Your positions have been made clear by your actions. We trust that our position is equally clear.

Consciousness Chancellery

*~*~*~*~*

Director Morgan’s office, Morgan Industries Inc. – MORGAN 2197

Aki-Zeta,

First let me remind you that Morgan Enterprises IS a free market corporation and that operates under the general guidelines of the United Nations Great Charter. We are a legal and fully accredited organization that enjoys the support of its stockholders to make sound business decisions that will make them a profit. We are not “obligated” in any form whatsoever to abide by any rules that you deem “appropriate”. I still am convinced that lack a full understanding of what a “free market” society is and especially one devoted to the maximization of wealth and personnel fortune! If it is our decision to sell technology to a faction and it makes us a handsome profit then we will do so! If for some reason another faction engages us in a business agreement that would guarantee that certain technology is not transferred to another faction then THAT is another type of business agreement. I have to say I was shocked beyond comprehension that you would even characterize such an arrangement as a “bribe”. You are simply securing certain “exclusive” trade relationship guarantees for a price. It is that simple. If you wish to threaten us that is of course, your decision but you should be aware that IN this situation we will not be bullied. We contributed certain technologies to the aliens and we were able to secure a peace agreement with them. This was done LONG before your alliance even began to think about a war against the aliens so we cannot be held responsible for that transaction. Be that as it may it was still a business arrangement by which we exchanged technology for peace. However, your threats carry no meaning to us at this time. You may monitor all you want but unless you have secured trading privileges with us we will be free to engage in any trades we feel are appropriate.

I cannot stress enough the seriousness of your threats and resulting chaos you will spark if you decide to carry out your intentions. I am still amazed that a free market society would even consider restricting another factions free market enterprises no matter what the issue would be involved. It is absurd! I am somewhat taken aback as to the very idea of the whole situation! I have to ask myself where are the free marketers in your society? Where are their votes and rights in this situation! Let the stockholders have a say!

So that we are clear on this issue and that there is no “ambiguity” for anyone to take issue with I will now make the following points. One, we are not your pact mates. If we were then we would of course “listen” to you guidance on this issue but since we are only economic trading partners I feel that you are overstepping your authority on this issue! Second, we are a free market economic system in all aspects of our society and as such we respond only to economic motivations and proposals. We will trade with whomever offers us the most profit. If you wish for us NOT to trade with someone then simply engage us in a business contract so that both parties obtain compensation for the task at hand and everything is okay!

Lastly, you may terminate your business arrangement with us at any time you so please. I suspect it will “hurt” you more than us but sometime those decisions have to be made. But let me be clear on this issue as it relates to what I have just mentioned above. We are not taking sides in this war until there is a profitable reason to do so. It is that clear to us and it should be to you as well since you “claim” to espouse similar economic values. As a disinterested third party I do not see where we have any obligation (unless you enter into a contractual agreement with us to do otherwise) to trade whatever technology we want to the Hive or anyone else.

So here is our business proposal to you: First, we will limit our exchange of technology to the Hive to only non-violent technology in exchange for three technologies from you! You may send us a list of technologies you wish to offer us in this regard but three will be sufficient to secure a lifetime ban on weapons or armor technological exchanges between the Hive and us. If you agree then there is nothing else to worry about if not then as I have said we will seek any business opportunity anyplace we feel that we can profit from. Profit is our guiding principal and our company motto as well and we have incorporated into our every day lives. We are a neutral party in this “conflict” that you have with the Hive and as such we will not take any side in this issue nor will we be threatened to not do business with them.

I hope I have made myself very clear to you!

One last note! I have attached our map files and I am willing to enter into a exclusive arrangement with you that I will not trade your map files to anyone else for a period of 20 turns if you so agree to. I can assure you that our files would be of great interest to you now!

I hope you balance sheet is positive!

CEO Nwabudike Morgan

*~*~*~*

Alpha Prime, MY 2198

The Consciousness Chancellery reviewed CEO Morgan’s latest transmission in quiet contemplation. When each member was done they looked up toward Aki Zeta-Five and registered their votes, which Aki tabulated.

Aki’s voice was emotionless when she said, “It is agreed. CEO Morgan’s latest proposal is counter to the interests of the Consciousness, and his attempt to extort technology from us is unreasonable. His actions are not those of a friendly trading partner, and his past and current actions indicate that his faction is not to be trusted.

“Our response to CEO Morgan’s proposal will be silence.”