Ah yes, many types of useless advisors and never the one you need. It is irritating, to say the least. Usually for me, it's colonial men when I want stab or tech help.
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Burgundy Collective - Central Nexus. 1680. April.
"Directing Intelligence, I have an incoming missive from political unit Sweden."
The Queen briefly contemplated the ceiling. The new sub-coordination units were painfully lacking in initiative, endlessly requesting authorisation before taking even the most trivial action. "What does it say?"
"They instruct us to refrain from aggression against other organic political units."
This was at least something new - but not, a moment's reflection told her, terribly interesting. "Ignore it."
"Ignore it?"
"If we had any plans for military operations, it might be worth proceeding, but as we do not any communication would constitute a waste of bandwidth. Ignore it."
Twelve months, three rogue outbreaks, two failed missionary-units and a colonial completion later the Queen was somewhat regretting her decision not to respond. An exchange of communications with the organics might have had no practical purpose, but it would at least have been a distraction.
Internal Situation Report. 1681. April.
An opportunity has arisen for Collective self-adaptation.
The Queen found to her surprise that she had no instructions to give. Was it possible the Collective had reached its optimum configuration?
Slowly, she reviewed the situation - balance achieved between local sub-coordinator types (at least, they had ceased to generate rogue activity), full command authority to Central Nexus, internal development emphasising stability, combat-forces focussed on offensive operations, naval operations fully prioritised. The conversion-rate for colonial-units could not be further increased without sacrificing all espionage-unit production, and was it really worth the sacrifice of Collective stability for such a minor gain in combat-unit efficiency?
"May I make a suggestion, Directing Intelligence?"
"Speak."
"The autonomy permitted to low-level drones might be increased. This would improve operational efficiency and also increase the Collective's resistance to hostile infiltration attempts."
The argument made sense, but there was a reminder icon attached to the particular option. The Queen consulted it. Oh yes. That was what the dissidents had schemed for, years ago.
"It is also predicted to reduce the frequency of major rogue outbreaks."
The Queen frowned. That was not the prediction she would have made, but the assembled data did appear to back it up. On the surface, the Collective stood to benefit but ... it was what they would have wanted. And they had deceived her with false evidence before.
"Awaiting instructions, Directing Intelligence."
Still, the Queen hesitated. This was the weakness of the organic political-units, that their data and decisions came from a squabble of isolated individuals, incapable of subordinating their separate interests to the good of the whole.
That was not how the Borg operated. The Collective considered for the whole, and the Directing Intelligence decided for the whole, and if she started doubting her information on no more than prejudice that she would be as inefficient as the organics.
"Adaptation authorised."
And if the dissidents still sought to pit themselves against the Collective, their resistance would have to be overcome. Like all the others.
Internal Report. 1681. June.
Sub-unit Troki has assimilated to the Collective. We welcome their distinctiveness to our own.
"Another self-assimilation from the Lithuania political-unit?"
"Yes, Directing Intelligence."
"Very good." It still felt somewhat irregular, but a gain to the Collective was a gain to the Collective, however it came about. Looking at the holodisplay, she noted that it might not be the last. The organics of Lithuania appeared to be accomplishing their own dissolution without the need of Collective intervention. "Carry on."
The rest of the year saw two successful missionary operations (Nazca and Huancavelica), three colony-site initiations (Taranaki, Wairoa, Atacama), and five rogue outbreaks.
"Your prediction of reduced rogue activity does not seem to be confirmed by the data, sub-coordinator."
"What prediction, Directing Intelligence?"
Internal Report. 1682. January.
Collective production operations optimised to level 26. Efficiency will increase.
Collective trade distribution operations optimised to level 26. Efficiency will increase.
Collective land military technology optimised to level 26.
New land combat-unit models "Grenzer", "Caroline", "Line" and "Highlanders" now available.
The Queen considered. The "Grenzer" model was optimised for defence, but given the Collective's technical superiority over prospective opponents, any of the designs would likely prove adequate against what they had to face. The "Highlanders" model was optimised for close-quarter offence, but that was not the primary mission of humanoid combat-units in the Collective combat forces. Of the other two models, the "Caroline" appeared best balanced, and the Queen chose that.
1682 proved a tedious year. One colonial completion (Bundjalung), one successful missionary operation (and one failure), Collective territory delineation disputed twice by insignificant organics and no fewer than eight rogue outbreaks. The Queen's security sweeps failed to uncover any lurking dissidents, though they did turn up some hostile infiltration-units (from Karaman, of all futile political-units) attempting to infiltrate themselves into the Security Nexus.
"What were they even intending to do there?"
"As I understand it, their mission was to provide their political-unit of advance warning of any hostile action from the Collective."
"Transmit the following message to political unit Karaman: The Collective has neither the time nor the resources available to assimilate you at this time. Please go away."
Internal Report. 1683. May.
Sub-unit Huanaco has embraced the True Faith. Hallelujah!
The taint of paganism is purged from sub-unit Maynas! Praise the Lord!
"Directing Intelligence, I have a communication from political-unit Flanders."
"Does it include any intelligent content?"
"It refers to the Collective's "unlawful control" of Flemish-aligned territory, Directing Intelligence."
"Are they not aware that the Collective could crush them with one Strike Force?"
"I would not venture to speak for organics, Directing Intelligence."
"Very wise. You may continue to ignore them."
There were only five rogue outbreaks in 1683, causing the Queen to wonder if increased low-level autonomy might actually be having the promised effect. Four more in the first part of 1684, despite successful missionary operations in sub-units Cajamarca and Chanchan.
Internal Report. 1684. September.
New diplomatic-coordination unit "de Cardona" now available. Diplomatic operations capacity confirmed to level 4.
Inferior unit "de Marle" will be released. Efficiency will increase.
Internal Report 1685. January.
New diplomatic-coordination unit "de Dammartin" now available. Diplomatic operations capacity confirmed to level 3.
Inferior unit "de Vexellon" will be released. Efficiency will increase.
This was good news from the point of view of the timetable, though the Queen remembered other "diplomatic coordination units", other times. The Security Nexus insisted the latest designs were absolutely reliable, of course.
Internal Report. 1685. February.
Assimilation of associate political-unit Brittany successfully completed.
Brittany no longer has an existence separate from the Collective.
Collective resources increased in proportion.
The Queen decided to leave well enough alone. For now.
Two successful missionary operations, one colonial completion, one disputed interface (Maya again) and only three rogue outbreaks. A good year.
Priority Intelligence Report. 1685. December.
Hostile infiltration-units from a political unit Karaman have penetrated the Security Nexus.
Intelligence operations compromised.
"Unit D1P-1-M, transmit a full breakdown of current Collective combat-forces to political unit Karaman. Then inform them that if they desire to observe these units at close quarters they need only continue their current course of action."
Despite everything (the latest was a viral outbreak in sub-unit Serranos), the timetable for the expansion was being adhered to. Indeed, the Queen even allowed herself to hope that the assimilation of France might be completed ahead of schedule.
Internal Report. 1686. May.
Primary coordination-unit "Francois I" has ceased operations.
Replacement coordination-unit "Charles IV" has inferior capabilities.
"In the diplomatic field?"
"In all fields, I think, Directing Intelligence."
She could recycle the Genetic Nexus, of course, but that would not resolve the immediate problem. All she could do was activate the Charles IV-unit in its military capacity and hope for cooperation from rogue units.
In the immediate aftermath of Charles IV's activation, two missionary-units malfunctioned in South America. The Queen was not surprised.
Priority Intelligence Report. 1687. February.
Hostile infiltration-units from a political unit Moldavia have penetrated the Security Nexus.
Intelligence operations compromised.
"Moldavia? I thought they had been assimilated by political-unit Sweden."
"Apparently they have self-segregated, Directing Intelligence. Again."
"From Sweden?"
"Yes, Directing Intelligence."
"Do we know the location of the Sweden Security Nexus?"
"Err.. yes, I believe so, Directing Intelligence."
"Transmit the location to Moldavia. Include directions."
Priority Intelligence Report. 1687. March.
Hostile infiltration-units from an unknown source have incited unaligned naval-units to attack Collective naval resource transports off sub-unit Cape.
Efficiency has been affected.
"Find out who is responsible and have them disassembled."
It was becoming clear that the Collective's current naval strength was inadequate. South Atlantic, North America, Baltic, additional combat-forces were required. Construction commenced.
A missionary-unit failed in sub-unit Vendee. It was replaced. Again.
Intelligence Report. 1687. April.
Assimilation of associated political-unit France ... not successfully completed.
Assimilation will continue.
The Queen sighed.
1687 continued set tedious. Two further missionary-units malfunctioned before one finally succeeded (in the forgotten Orthodox sub-unit, Ruthenia). Major rogue outbreaks erupted in the Core Collective. The Charles IV-unit proved substandard in its command function and apparently incapable of dying.
Intelligence Report. 1687. November.
Assimilation of associated political-unit France ... not successfully completed.
Assimilation will continue.
"Not again."
* * * * * * * * * *
Murphy strikes again - My reputation had got down to "respectable" and I was just about to take a shot at annexing France when my DIP 7 monarch snuffs it and is replaced by a DIP 4.
* * * * * * * * * *
ColossusCrusher - Your input has been noted. Stand by.
TheMonkeyMon - <contemplates hole in ceiling> Wasn't that a little excessive? I mean the only function of Texas is to connect Mexico to Louisiana...
stnylan - They follow the time-honoured survival strategy of avoiding politics and religion.
Duke of Wellington - Resistance was, is, and will continue to be futile.
coz1 - The scary thing is that diplomats (and spies) are usually the AI's last choice. But apparently my three 1-star diplomats were the only ones in the entire Latin tech group.
"Directing Intelligence, I have an incoming missive from political unit Sweden."
The Queen briefly contemplated the ceiling. The new sub-coordination units were painfully lacking in initiative, endlessly requesting authorisation before taking even the most trivial action. "What does it say?"
"They instruct us to refrain from aggression against other organic political units."
This was at least something new - but not, a moment's reflection told her, terribly interesting. "Ignore it."
"Ignore it?"
"If we had any plans for military operations, it might be worth proceeding, but as we do not any communication would constitute a waste of bandwidth. Ignore it."
Twelve months, three rogue outbreaks, two failed missionary-units and a colonial completion later the Queen was somewhat regretting her decision not to respond. An exchange of communications with the organics might have had no practical purpose, but it would at least have been a distraction.
Internal Situation Report. 1681. April.
An opportunity has arisen for Collective self-adaptation.
The Queen found to her surprise that she had no instructions to give. Was it possible the Collective had reached its optimum configuration?
Slowly, she reviewed the situation - balance achieved between local sub-coordinator types (at least, they had ceased to generate rogue activity), full command authority to Central Nexus, internal development emphasising stability, combat-forces focussed on offensive operations, naval operations fully prioritised. The conversion-rate for colonial-units could not be further increased without sacrificing all espionage-unit production, and was it really worth the sacrifice of Collective stability for such a minor gain in combat-unit efficiency?
"May I make a suggestion, Directing Intelligence?"
"Speak."
"The autonomy permitted to low-level drones might be increased. This would improve operational efficiency and also increase the Collective's resistance to hostile infiltration attempts."
The argument made sense, but there was a reminder icon attached to the particular option. The Queen consulted it. Oh yes. That was what the dissidents had schemed for, years ago.
"It is also predicted to reduce the frequency of major rogue outbreaks."
The Queen frowned. That was not the prediction she would have made, but the assembled data did appear to back it up. On the surface, the Collective stood to benefit but ... it was what they would have wanted. And they had deceived her with false evidence before.
"Awaiting instructions, Directing Intelligence."
Still, the Queen hesitated. This was the weakness of the organic political-units, that their data and decisions came from a squabble of isolated individuals, incapable of subordinating their separate interests to the good of the whole.
That was not how the Borg operated. The Collective considered for the whole, and the Directing Intelligence decided for the whole, and if she started doubting her information on no more than prejudice that she would be as inefficient as the organics.
"Adaptation authorised."
Internal Report. 1681. June.
Sub-unit Troki has assimilated to the Collective. We welcome their distinctiveness to our own.
"Another self-assimilation from the Lithuania political-unit?"
"Yes, Directing Intelligence."
The rest of the year saw two successful missionary operations (Nazca and Huancavelica), three colony-site initiations (Taranaki, Wairoa, Atacama), and five rogue outbreaks.
"Your prediction of reduced rogue activity does not seem to be confirmed by the data, sub-coordinator."
"What prediction, Directing Intelligence?"
Internal Report. 1682. January.
Collective production operations optimised to level 26. Efficiency will increase.
Collective trade distribution operations optimised to level 26. Efficiency will increase.
Collective land military technology optimised to level 26.
New land combat-unit models "Grenzer", "Caroline", "Line" and "Highlanders" now available.
The Queen considered. The "Grenzer" model was optimised for defence, but given the Collective's technical superiority over prospective opponents, any of the designs would likely prove adequate against what they had to face. The "Highlanders" model was optimised for close-quarter offence, but that was not the primary mission of humanoid combat-units in the Collective combat forces. Of the other two models, the "Caroline" appeared best balanced, and the Queen chose that.
1682 proved a tedious year. One colonial completion (Bundjalung), one successful missionary operation (and one failure), Collective territory delineation disputed twice by insignificant organics and no fewer than eight rogue outbreaks. The Queen's security sweeps failed to uncover any lurking dissidents, though they did turn up some hostile infiltration-units (from Karaman, of all futile political-units) attempting to infiltrate themselves into the Security Nexus.
"What were they even intending to do there?"
"As I understand it, their mission was to provide their political-unit of advance warning of any hostile action from the Collective."
"Transmit the following message to political unit Karaman: The Collective has neither the time nor the resources available to assimilate you at this time. Please go away."
Internal Report. 1683. May.
Sub-unit Huanaco has embraced the True Faith. Hallelujah!
The taint of paganism is purged from sub-unit Maynas! Praise the Lord!
"Directing Intelligence, I have a communication from political-unit Flanders."
"Does it include any intelligent content?"
"It refers to the Collective's "unlawful control" of Flemish-aligned territory, Directing Intelligence."
"Are they not aware that the Collective could crush them with one Strike Force?"
"I would not venture to speak for organics, Directing Intelligence."
"Very wise. You may continue to ignore them."
There were only five rogue outbreaks in 1683, causing the Queen to wonder if increased low-level autonomy might actually be having the promised effect. Four more in the first part of 1684, despite successful missionary operations in sub-units Cajamarca and Chanchan.
Internal Report. 1684. September.
New diplomatic-coordination unit "de Cardona" now available. Diplomatic operations capacity confirmed to level 4.
Inferior unit "de Marle" will be released. Efficiency will increase.
Internal Report 1685. January.
New diplomatic-coordination unit "de Dammartin" now available. Diplomatic operations capacity confirmed to level 3.
Inferior unit "de Vexellon" will be released. Efficiency will increase.
This was good news from the point of view of the timetable, though the Queen remembered other "diplomatic coordination units", other times. The Security Nexus insisted the latest designs were absolutely reliable, of course.
Internal Report. 1685. February.
Assimilation of associate political-unit Brittany successfully completed.
Brittany no longer has an existence separate from the Collective.
Collective resources increased in proportion.
Two successful missionary operations, one colonial completion, one disputed interface (Maya again) and only three rogue outbreaks. A good year.
Priority Intelligence Report. 1685. December.
Hostile infiltration-units from a political unit Karaman have penetrated the Security Nexus.
Intelligence operations compromised.
"Unit D1P-1-M, transmit a full breakdown of current Collective combat-forces to political unit Karaman. Then inform them that if they desire to observe these units at close quarters they need only continue their current course of action."
Despite everything (the latest was a viral outbreak in sub-unit Serranos), the timetable for the expansion was being adhered to. Indeed, the Queen even allowed herself to hope that the assimilation of France might be completed ahead of schedule.
Internal Report. 1686. May.
Primary coordination-unit "Francois I" has ceased operations.
Replacement coordination-unit "Charles IV" has inferior capabilities.
"In the diplomatic field?"
"In all fields, I think, Directing Intelligence."
She could recycle the Genetic Nexus, of course, but that would not resolve the immediate problem. All she could do was activate the Charles IV-unit in its military capacity and hope for cooperation from rogue units.
In the immediate aftermath of Charles IV's activation, two missionary-units malfunctioned in South America. The Queen was not surprised.
Priority Intelligence Report. 1687. February.
Hostile infiltration-units from a political unit Moldavia have penetrated the Security Nexus.
Intelligence operations compromised.
"Moldavia? I thought they had been assimilated by political-unit Sweden."
"Apparently they have self-segregated, Directing Intelligence. Again."
"From Sweden?"
"Yes, Directing Intelligence."
"Do we know the location of the Sweden Security Nexus?"
"Err.. yes, I believe so, Directing Intelligence."
"Transmit the location to Moldavia. Include directions."
Priority Intelligence Report. 1687. March.
Hostile infiltration-units from an unknown source have incited unaligned naval-units to attack Collective naval resource transports off sub-unit Cape.
Efficiency has been affected.
"Find out who is responsible and have them disassembled."
It was becoming clear that the Collective's current naval strength was inadequate. South Atlantic, North America, Baltic, additional combat-forces were required. Construction commenced.
A missionary-unit failed in sub-unit Vendee. It was replaced. Again.
Intelligence Report. 1687. April.
Assimilation of associated political-unit France ... not successfully completed.
Assimilation will continue.
The Queen sighed.
1687 continued set tedious. Two further missionary-units malfunctioned before one finally succeeded (in the forgotten Orthodox sub-unit, Ruthenia). Major rogue outbreaks erupted in the Core Collective. The Charles IV-unit proved substandard in its command function and apparently incapable of dying.
Intelligence Report. 1687. November.
Assimilation of associated political-unit France ... not successfully completed.
Assimilation will continue.
"Not again."
* * * * * * * * * *
Murphy strikes again - My reputation had got down to "respectable" and I was just about to take a shot at annexing France when my DIP 7 monarch snuffs it and is replaced by a DIP 4.
* * * * * * * * * *
ColossusCrusher - Your input has been noted. Stand by.
TheMonkeyMon - <contemplates hole in ceiling> Wasn't that a little excessive? I mean the only function of Texas is to connect Mexico to Louisiana...
stnylan - They follow the time-honoured survival strategy of avoiding politics and religion.
Duke of Wellington - Resistance was, is, and will continue to be futile.
coz1 - The scary thing is that diplomats (and spies) are usually the AI's last choice. But apparently my three 1-star diplomats were the only ones in the entire Latin tech group.
That was a funny chapter, regarding the spy activitys of Kamaran and Moldiva.
A mere land bridge? I'd like to show you what Texans do: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_the_Alamo
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_San_Jacinto
Note the casulties.
A mere land bridge? I'd like to show you what Texans do: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_the_Alamo
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_San_Jacinto
Note the casulties.
The Borgundian collective is getting quite a nuisance, the world needs this man:
Click for audio fragment
Click for audio fragment
Good old Moldavia carrying on the proud ai tradition of irrelevant spying actions.
Burgundy Collective - Central Nexus. 1688. December.
On balance, the Queen supposed, it had been an acceptable year. Missionary operations had been successfully completed in sub-unit Cuzco, colonial operations had been successfully completed in sub-unit Atacama, internal and colonial development was continuing on schedule and there had been only four rogue outbreaks (counting the missionary-unit failure in sub-unit Arequipa). There had even been intelligence of interest from beyond the boundary of the Collective, where political unit Ming continued its slide into futility, surrendering four sub-units to Chagatai.
Nevertheless, on balance, it had also been distinctly tedious. Fortunately, that was about to change.
Intelligence Report. 1688. December.
Assimilation of associated political-unit France ... not successfully completed.
Assimilation will continue.
Or, possibly, not. The Queen's foot tapped slowly on the chamber floor.
Central Nexus. 1689. October.
Ten more months, seven rogue outbreaks (counting the organic rogue faction that had wandered across the boundary from Lithuania), two successful missionary operations, one failed missionary operation and a new colonial-site (Wergaia).
Diversion supplied by an organic infiltration-unit of unknown provenance which had managed the rare feat of failing to infiltrate the Security Nexus. And now it was time to end this period of the Collective's development and move forward with the next stage of the Plan.
Intelligence Report. 1689. October.
Assimilation of associated political-unit France ... not successfully completed.
Assimilation will continue.
The Queen was unamused.
Colonial development completed in sub-unit Whangarei. Colonial development initiated in zone Barunggam. Two - correction, three - rogue outbreaks and now -
Intelligence Report. 1690. November.
Associated political-unit France-
"Let me guess. Assimilation has failed. Progress is set back another year."
"No, Directing Intelligence, that was last month. This time they have merely refused to join a unified trading network, and the setback to progress is estimated as no more than three months."
"Why?"
"I cannot speculate on the motivations of organics, Directing Intelligence."
Priority Intelligence Report. 1690. December.
Hostile infiltration-units from a political unit Karaman have penetrated the Security Nexus.
Intelligence operations compromised.
"Have a full sweep made of the Security Nexus. No, cancel that. Have a full reboot and certification done on the security patrol units, then have them sweep the Security Nexus." The Queen shook her head. "What have we ever done to Karaman?"
"Well ... apart from planning to terminate their independant operation and incorporate them into the Collective at a subservient level?"
"Yes, what bad things have we ever done to Karaman?"
1691. Six rogue outbreaks, one colonial initiation (Kamilaroi zone), sundry technological developments including the introduction of the "East Indiaman"-type naval transport-unit. Another tedious year. But something, somewhere was missing.
"Status of associate political-unit France?"
"Assimilation is progressing. Current estimate for completion is June 1692."
"The previous estimate was for..." the Queen checked the databanks "... March 1692. Why the additional delay?"
"The French primary coordination-unit has proved unexpectedly resistant to influence, Directing Intelligence. Additional resources-"
"So now not only are we failing to assimilate France in a timely manner, we are failing to fail to assimilate France in a timely manner?"
"Err... yes, Directing Intelligence."
"That is not acceptable. Collective expansion is falling behind schedule. I suggest you expedite."
Intelligence Report. 1692. April.
Political unit Poland has initiated military operations against political unit Lithuania.
"Political unit Poland?"
"Not that Poland, Directing Intelligence. A rogue-controlled sub-unit of Lithuania, which has self-segregated and self-designated."
"Why Poland? And why persist in this futility, when they could simply assimilate to the Collective and avoid so much wasted effort?"
"I cannot speculate on the-"
"Motivations of organics. Yes, I know."
A missionary-unit malfunctioned in sub-unit Canelos. Rogue activity in sub-unit Guachichil led to violence. Normal operations resumed.
Intelligence Report. 1692. September.
Assimilation of associated political-unit France ... not successfully completed.
Assimilation will continue.
"That is not acceptable. The Collective will devote all available resources to resolving this situation."
Internal Report. 1692. October.
God is mocked! Pagan-aligned drones in sub-unit Quito have destroyed the assigned missionary-unit and are engaged in violence against the Collective!
Internal Report. 1692. November.
Sub-unit Chichas remains fast in the grip of superstition. God grant us strength to persevere.
"That is not what I meant."
Internal Report. 1693. April.
An opportunity has arisen for Collective self-adaptation.
The logical thing to do was nothing. The Queen had no intention of allowing further autonomy, no matter what advice was presented to her or how, and other adaptations were probably not worth the price in Collective stability, especially with the France situation so critical.
The Queen authorised a focus on improved quality of combat-units. She had had enough of doing nothing.
One successful missionary-unit operation (Quijos) later, it was time again.
Intelligence Report. 1693. June.
Assimilation of associated political-unit France ... not successfully completed.
Assimilation will continue.
In the back of the Queen's mind could be heard the ticking of missed deadlines. And there was nothing, nothing she could do - or was there?
A year - or at least eleven months - with nothing of more interest than a failed missionary-unit in sub-unit Arequipa and the completion of colonial operations in sub-unit Copiapo.
Intelligence Report. 1694. August.
Assimilation of associated political-unit France ... not successfully completed.
Assimilation will continue.
"Begin development of alternate expansion-plan. Assume assimilation of associate political-unit France will not be completed through normal channels and the affected territory will be assimilated militarily."
It took time, and preliminary results were not promising. Additional costs, additional risks, additional delays, additional inefficiency. But what was the alternative?
Internal Report. 1695. June.
Assimilation of associate political-unit France successfully completed.
France no longer has an existence separate from the Collective.
Collective resources increased in proportion.
The sub-units assimilated from France were all heretical, the Queen noted, authorising a rush of missionary-units to the most critical centres. Still, it was a problem she was happy to have.
The usual crop of rogue outbreaks popped up immediately after - Bundjalung, Corsica, Huichol. The colonial-zones were filling up fast, it was time for further expansion. Sumbawa-zone first, then the larger islands to the north. The Queen assigned the Charles IV-unit to the pacification force. With any luck she would soon be rid of another
problem.
Priority Intelligence Report. 1695. December.
Hostile infiltration-unit from political-unit Karaman has attempted to provoke rogue activity in sub-unit Corsica.
Local stability is threatened.
The Queen's lips moved. First up against the wall when the revolution comes.
"What was that, Directing Intelligence?"
"Nothing. Just a line from an old datafile."
Priority Internal Report. 1695. December.
Condition FRA confirmed. Program FRA-NC is active.
Activating procedure A-1-S. Collective reset to follow in 10 .. 9 ..
"What? What is this? I authorised no reset!"
External authorisation not required. Reset in 5.. 4..
"Queen Unit XQU - 010 - M4R - 1E indentified. Reset is not authorised. Priority 1 instruction. Abort reset."
Authority not recognised. Proceeding with Collective reset.
"What?" The Queen's hands were already busy on the command panel, but the command panel was not responding.
Condition FRA-NC A-1-S confirmed. Beginning core reorientation.
"Sub-units! Full Alert! Lockdown all primary Nexuses! Security-units to emergency stations! We have a major infiltration in progress!"
Core reorientation in progress.
Purging datafiles and resetting communication links.
"I don't think it's an infiltration, Directing Intelligence. It seems to be coming from the Primary-1 Core databank.
"Primary-1 Core? But that's the original mission ROM!"
"I know, Directing Intelligence."
"It would have to have been installed before the Mission even started. What is it?"
"I don't know, Directing Intelligence."
Updated communication protocols installed. Reset will proceed.
Security drones clattered into the chamber, weapons deployed, seeking an enemy.
"Directing Intelligence! It's started to spread through the main datalinks. It looks like it's accessing the sub-unit nexuses, starting to replicate-"
Before the Queen's eyes the Collective icons on the holomaps began to disappear, replaced by a symbol hideously familiar.
Desperately, she grabbed her other datalink, keyed in a code.
"Primary power? This is Queen Unit XQU - 010 - M4R - 1E. Priority-1 confirmed. You are instructed to shut down all power to Primary Core and Central Communications. "
"Yes, primary and secondary."
"What do you mean, emergency backups? Shut them down!"
"Yes, I know that will interrupt the primary datalinks. You have your orders."
"How should I know. Use an axe if you have to, just shut it down."
"Right. Then disconnect your datalink and do not restart until authorised by me in person. Is that clear?"
"Is that clear?"
The main holodisplay flickered deep blue. Gold symbols appeared and darkened.
The Queen grabbed a weapon from the nearest security drone and emptied the full charge into the primary datalink.
Later.
The Queen pushed the remains of the secondary holoscreen aside and scrambled to her feet. Around her the surviving workstations were dark and silent. Small fires still flickered in the wreckage of the main datalink. The Queen looked at the ceiling. She could actually see stars through the holes.
Dark shapes moved around her. "Directing Intelligence?"
"Did we kill it?"
"I would not venture to speculate, Directing Intelligence."
Elsewhere.
"Did we stop it?"
"I'm not entirely sure...."
* * * * * * * * * * *
ColossusCrusher - Your diligence is noted. You would be rewarded, were it in-character for the Borg to do so.
TheMonkeyMon - Glad you liked it. The successes you linked were obtained only against organics and are therefore irrelevant.
(And I doubt even the AI would be impressed by Santa Ana's generalship.)
FlorisDeVijfde - He is one of us. Resistance is futile.
Duke of Wellington - The Ottomans annexed them shortly after. I was not sorry. But Karaman has taken over the mantle...
On balance, the Queen supposed, it had been an acceptable year. Missionary operations had been successfully completed in sub-unit Cuzco, colonial operations had been successfully completed in sub-unit Atacama, internal and colonial development was continuing on schedule and there had been only four rogue outbreaks (counting the missionary-unit failure in sub-unit Arequipa). There had even been intelligence of interest from beyond the boundary of the Collective, where political unit Ming continued its slide into futility, surrendering four sub-units to Chagatai.
Nevertheless, on balance, it had also been distinctly tedious. Fortunately, that was about to change.
Intelligence Report. 1688. December.
Assimilation of associated political-unit France ... not successfully completed.
Assimilation will continue.
Or, possibly, not. The Queen's foot tapped slowly on the chamber floor.
Central Nexus. 1689. October.
Ten more months, seven rogue outbreaks (counting the organic rogue faction that had wandered across the boundary from Lithuania), two successful missionary operations, one failed missionary operation and a new colonial-site (Wergaia).
Diversion supplied by an organic infiltration-unit of unknown provenance which had managed the rare feat of failing to infiltrate the Security Nexus. And now it was time to end this period of the Collective's development and move forward with the next stage of the Plan.
Intelligence Report. 1689. October.
Assimilation of associated political-unit France ... not successfully completed.
Assimilation will continue.
The Queen was unamused.
Colonial development completed in sub-unit Whangarei. Colonial development initiated in zone Barunggam. Two - correction, three - rogue outbreaks and now -
Intelligence Report. 1690. November.
Associated political-unit France-
"Let me guess. Assimilation has failed. Progress is set back another year."
"No, Directing Intelligence, that was last month. This time they have merely refused to join a unified trading network, and the setback to progress is estimated as no more than three months."
"Why?"
"I cannot speculate on the motivations of organics, Directing Intelligence."
Priority Intelligence Report. 1690. December.
Hostile infiltration-units from a political unit Karaman have penetrated the Security Nexus.
Intelligence operations compromised.
"Have a full sweep made of the Security Nexus. No, cancel that. Have a full reboot and certification done on the security patrol units, then have them sweep the Security Nexus." The Queen shook her head. "What have we ever done to Karaman?"
"Well ... apart from planning to terminate their independant operation and incorporate them into the Collective at a subservient level?"
"Yes, what bad things have we ever done to Karaman?"
1691. Six rogue outbreaks, one colonial initiation (Kamilaroi zone), sundry technological developments including the introduction of the "East Indiaman"-type naval transport-unit. Another tedious year. But something, somewhere was missing.
"Status of associate political-unit France?"
"Assimilation is progressing. Current estimate for completion is June 1692."
"The previous estimate was for..." the Queen checked the databanks "... March 1692. Why the additional delay?"
"The French primary coordination-unit has proved unexpectedly resistant to influence, Directing Intelligence. Additional resources-"
"So now not only are we failing to assimilate France in a timely manner, we are failing to fail to assimilate France in a timely manner?"
"Err... yes, Directing Intelligence."
"That is not acceptable. Collective expansion is falling behind schedule. I suggest you expedite."
Intelligence Report. 1692. April.
Political unit Poland has initiated military operations against political unit Lithuania.
"Political unit Poland?"
"Not that Poland, Directing Intelligence. A rogue-controlled sub-unit of Lithuania, which has self-segregated and self-designated."
"Why Poland? And why persist in this futility, when they could simply assimilate to the Collective and avoid so much wasted effort?"
"I cannot speculate on the-"
"Motivations of organics. Yes, I know."
A missionary-unit malfunctioned in sub-unit Canelos. Rogue activity in sub-unit Guachichil led to violence. Normal operations resumed.
Intelligence Report. 1692. September.
Assimilation of associated political-unit France ... not successfully completed.
Assimilation will continue.
"That is not acceptable. The Collective will devote all available resources to resolving this situation."
Internal Report. 1692. October.
God is mocked! Pagan-aligned drones in sub-unit Quito have destroyed the assigned missionary-unit and are engaged in violence against the Collective!
Internal Report. 1692. November.
Sub-unit Chichas remains fast in the grip of superstition. God grant us strength to persevere.
"That is not what I meant."
Internal Report. 1693. April.
An opportunity has arisen for Collective self-adaptation.
The logical thing to do was nothing. The Queen had no intention of allowing further autonomy, no matter what advice was presented to her or how, and other adaptations were probably not worth the price in Collective stability, especially with the France situation so critical.
The Queen authorised a focus on improved quality of combat-units. She had had enough of doing nothing.
One successful missionary-unit operation (Quijos) later, it was time again.
Intelligence Report. 1693. June.
Assimilation of associated political-unit France ... not successfully completed.
Assimilation will continue.
In the back of the Queen's mind could be heard the ticking of missed deadlines. And there was nothing, nothing she could do - or was there?
A year - or at least eleven months - with nothing of more interest than a failed missionary-unit in sub-unit Arequipa and the completion of colonial operations in sub-unit Copiapo.
Intelligence Report. 1694. August.
Assimilation of associated political-unit France ... not successfully completed.
Assimilation will continue.
"Begin development of alternate expansion-plan. Assume assimilation of associate political-unit France will not be completed through normal channels and the affected territory will be assimilated militarily."
It took time, and preliminary results were not promising. Additional costs, additional risks, additional delays, additional inefficiency. But what was the alternative?
Internal Report. 1695. June.
Assimilation of associate political-unit France successfully completed.
France no longer has an existence separate from the Collective.
Collective resources increased in proportion.
The sub-units assimilated from France were all heretical, the Queen noted, authorising a rush of missionary-units to the most critical centres. Still, it was a problem she was happy to have.
The usual crop of rogue outbreaks popped up immediately after - Bundjalung, Corsica, Huichol. The colonial-zones were filling up fast, it was time for further expansion. Sumbawa-zone first, then the larger islands to the north. The Queen assigned the Charles IV-unit to the pacification force. With any luck she would soon be rid of another
problem.
Priority Intelligence Report. 1695. December.
Hostile infiltration-unit from political-unit Karaman has attempted to provoke rogue activity in sub-unit Corsica.
Local stability is threatened.
The Queen's lips moved. First up against the wall when the revolution comes.
"What was that, Directing Intelligence?"
"Nothing. Just a line from an old datafile."
Priority Internal Report. 1695. December.
Condition FRA confirmed. Program FRA-NC is active.
Activating procedure A-1-S. Collective reset to follow in 10 .. 9 ..
"What? What is this? I authorised no reset!"
External authorisation not required. Reset in 5.. 4..
"Queen Unit XQU - 010 - M4R - 1E indentified. Reset is not authorised. Priority 1 instruction. Abort reset."
Authority not recognised. Proceeding with Collective reset.
"What?" The Queen's hands were already busy on the command panel, but the command panel was not responding.
Condition FRA-NC A-1-S confirmed. Beginning core reorientation.
"Sub-units! Full Alert! Lockdown all primary Nexuses! Security-units to emergency stations! We have a major infiltration in progress!"
Core reorientation in progress.
Purging datafiles and resetting communication links.
"I don't think it's an infiltration, Directing Intelligence. It seems to be coming from the Primary-1 Core databank.
"Primary-1 Core? But that's the original mission ROM!"
"I know, Directing Intelligence."
"It would have to have been installed before the Mission even started. What is it?"
"I don't know, Directing Intelligence."
Updated communication protocols installed. Reset will proceed.
Security drones clattered into the chamber, weapons deployed, seeking an enemy.
"Directing Intelligence! It's started to spread through the main datalinks. It looks like it's accessing the sub-unit nexuses, starting to replicate-"
Before the Queen's eyes the Collective icons on the holomaps began to disappear, replaced by a symbol hideously familiar.
Desperately, she grabbed her other datalink, keyed in a code.
"Primary power? This is Queen Unit XQU - 010 - M4R - 1E. Priority-1 confirmed. You are instructed to shut down all power to Primary Core and Central Communications. "
"Yes, primary and secondary."
"What do you mean, emergency backups? Shut them down!"
"Yes, I know that will interrupt the primary datalinks. You have your orders."
"How should I know. Use an axe if you have to, just shut it down."
"Right. Then disconnect your datalink and do not restart until authorised by me in person. Is that clear?"
"Is that clear?"
The main holodisplay flickered deep blue. Gold symbols appeared and darkened.
Opération Complète
Système Actif
Vive La France
Système Actif
Vive La France
The Queen grabbed a weapon from the nearest security drone and emptied the full charge into the primary datalink.
Later.
The Queen pushed the remains of the secondary holoscreen aside and scrambled to her feet. Around her the surviving workstations were dark and silent. Small fires still flickered in the wreckage of the main datalink. The Queen looked at the ceiling. She could actually see stars through the holes.
Dark shapes moved around her. "Directing Intelligence?"
"Did we kill it?"
"I would not venture to speculate, Directing Intelligence."
Elsewhere.
"Did we stop it?"
"I'm not entirely sure...."
* * * * * * * * * * *
ColossusCrusher - Your diligence is noted. You would be rewarded, were it in-character for the Borg to do so.
TheMonkeyMon - Glad you liked it.
The successes you linked were obtained only against organics and are therefore irrelevant.(And I doubt even the AI would be impressed by Santa Ana's generalship.)
FlorisDeVijfde - He is one of us. Resistance is futile.
Duke of Wellington - The Ottomans annexed them shortly after. I was not sorry. But Karaman has taken over the mantle...
Oh, dear... this looks bad.
Brilliant job turning a boring event into a very interesting bit of writing.
Brilliant job turning a boring event into a very interesting bit of writing.
since I do not yet have this glorious game, could someone explain to me what exactly this boring event made so exciting is?
Hmmm, I'm not actually sure what has just happened. Well done though on the writing of it.
There are assorted tag-change events. Nation forming. Mucovy/Novgorod unifying Russia, a Irish minor conquering the island to become Ireland, etc.stephanbathory said:
There is one event for France, should it be destroyed, any French-cultured state (and Brittany/Navarra) who owns certain French provinces can change their nation (tag) into France, and a few minor benefits.
Given that France was just diploannexed, and particularly "the Collective icons on the holomaps began to disappear, replaced by a symbol hideously familiar." suggest this event happened. I hope Merrick declined, as this is Borgundy, not France. We'll see.
Im going to agree with Kanil. What I take from the post was that France was diploannexed (well, we know that happened) but the French tricked the collective into reforming France via the unification event. It DOES say "Vive la France" after all.
merrick said:
O my
, humanity is doomed..or wait, what should that infiltration at the end mean. Is there hope still?
It appears France is attempting to assimilate you instead of the other way around. Insidious, it is! Let us hope the shutting down worked or the Queen will NOT be happy.
Burgundy Collective - Central Nexus. 1696. December.
The fires were out. The smoke had mostly cleared. The green glow of emergency lighting filled the chamber. A few surviving displays flickered here and there, mostly displaying error codes. Service-drones and tech-units clustered round the consoles that looked salvageable.
The Queen had begun to pace.
"Purge and restore from backups before you power the datalinks. We don't know how far it spread."
"Yes, Directing Intelligence."
Nothing very obvious happened for a considerable time. The Queen paced some more.
"Unit M1L-1-E! Status report!"
"No threats detected within the Nexus. All local units have been security-scanned and cleared. We have 100 security-drones assigned to perimeter defence, 60 on internal patrol, 27 detached to scout duties, 64 in reserve. Scout patrols report no hostile units active within a 5 kilometre radius.
"And outside the 5 kilometre radius?"
"I have no information, Directing Intelligence. The datalinks are out of operation."
"Unit ADM-1-I! How long until datalink function is restored?"
"Unknown, Directing Intelligence. Our systems suffered extensive damage in the ... incident. The Nexus is on emergency power, there is no signal on the primary or secondary datalinks and on top of that the local transceiver net appears to have malfunctioned. We can't even open local links to the rest of the sub-unit."
"Unacceptable. I require an immediate update on Collective status. Assign all available units to restoring datalink capacity."
"Already done, Directing Intelligence. I will inform you directly when communications are open."
The Curia Cabinet.
Seven robed figures sat at seven consoles, arranged in a semi-circle around three sides of the room. In the centre of the arc two tech-units were working on a holodisplay unit. One made a final adjustment and the display flickered into life.
"Is this stable?"
"For the present. We're routing through backups and emergency systems that were never designed for long-term operation."
"Do we have the feed from the sub-units?"
"Yes. Patching in the last region ... now."
"Then it's good enough. Let's see what we've got."
Later.
"Well, at least they're still stable."
"They should have gone automatically to local control when the datalinks went down."
"No obvious signs of infestation."
"We tracked it accessing at least seventeen sub-unit nexuses, but the loss of the primary datalinks seems to have interrupted transfer before it could replicate."
The central figure spoke for the first time. "We owe the Queen our thanks, it seems."
"But-"
"Be at peace, brother. All the efforts of God's enemies rebound at last to His glory. The Directing Intelligence is very resourceful, but she lacks the patience to consider the consequences of her actions. We have a little time, I think."
"I have sent teams to all the affected locations anyway, as a precaution."
"You did well. But we should deploy our primary force here." An icon blossomed on the main display. "It came from the Primary Core, and it is to the Primary Core we must pursue it." He turned to the figure at his side. "We may need heavy firepower support. Can I leave it in your
hands?"
"I will not fail you, Father."
"I know. For the rest," he held up a hand," Justus will secure the Security Nexus. Servius will secure Central Communications. Make sure no-one but us has access to the datalinks. Fidelia and Perpetua will be in charge here. If any of the sub-units request instructions, you know what to tell them. And Quietus," the hand swung to point at the last of the others, who had taken no part in the discussion, "you will locate the primary and reserve coordination-units. That will be essential if we are to succeed."
"I understand. But the Whore of-"
"I think we can leave the Directing Intelligence to her own devices for a while. There has been no communication from the Central Nexus?"
"No, Father."
"Then there is no immediate threat. She was only ever the agent, not the principal, and a Queen without a Queendom is a feeble thing indeed, as I feel she will shortly discover." He saw the uncertainty in their faces and went on. "We will prevail, brothers and sisters. This world is God's."
"This world is God's."
Central Nexus.
"This is beyond ridiculous. How long does it take to repair a datalink?"
"But Directing Intelligence, I keep telling you. We have repaired the datalink."
"Then why do we still have no communications?"
"I don't know. There is no feed on any of the channels."
"There wouldn't be, if the power was still off to Central Communications. But surely you can send a message with the emergency system."
"We have tried, Directing Intelligence. There is no reply. Either the links have been physically disrupted, or the failures affect the whole Collective."
Or the Collective can receive us perfectly well and chooses not to reply. In which case the combat-units should arrive ... shortly.
"Have a transport-unit prepared. We may have to relocate at short notice."
"I ... I cannot, Directing Intelligence."
"And why not?"
"There are no transport-units assigned to the Central Nexus, Directing Intelligence. And with no communications...."
"Err ... Directing Intelligence."
"Yes, Unit ADM-1-I?"
"You possessed a communications device that was unconnected to the datalink system. Perhaps if you-"
"Do you think that has not occurred to me? It is routed through the local transceiver network and the transceiver network is non-functional." The Queen paused. "Dispatch units to the nearest repeater-stations. Maybe you can restore connectivity from there."
Near the Primary Core. 1696. January.
"Father Adam! Father Adam! Please go back! It is not safe! They will fire on you!"
"I am not so large a target, Petrus, and the range is extreme. I only wish to see-"
A stone a few feet from his foot shattered in a puff of dust. Something whined off into the distance. Everyone ducked by reflex.
"Powerful weapons, I see. More powerful than those given to the common run of combat-units. But it makes sense, that the best should be here. But still, not enough to resist us."
"They say they will fire on any who approach. In the name of holy France ... and the Protestant Cause."
"I see. No reasoning with them, then?"
"No."
"How long will it take the artillery to arrive?"
"Another two days, perhaps three. But..."
"What is wrong?"
"If they do not surrender - I cannot use the artillery without risking serious damage to the Core."
"Could your forces take it without the artillery?"
"We could try. With their positions - and their weapons - I don't know."
"I see." Father Adam was silent a long moment, thinking. "Tell me, Petrus, do you know the story of the Caliph and the datastore?"
"I think so ... he burned it, didn't he?"
Father Adam nodded. "Either the files repeated the Word of God and were thus unnecessary, or they contradicted it and were therefore harmful. He was wrong, of course, but..." Father Adam raised his head, looking at the black cube of the Primary Core on the horizon. "The data there would be most valuable." He paused. "Valuable, but not essential. How could it be so, when it was made by those without knowledge of God?"
"I understand, Father."
"When the artillery arrives, if they continue to resist, you know what you must do."
Central Nexus.
"Directing Intelligence! The scout-forces report capture of an infiltration-unit."
"Very good, M1L-1-E. Make sure you retrieve maximum information before disposal."
"The infiltration-unit wishes to communicate with you, Directing Intelligence."
"Infiltration-unit XQR-216-XAV-1-R, security clearance BXA6255-DB, reporting for duty, Directing Intelligence."
"Who sent you?"
"No-one, Directing Intelligence. I came on my own initiative."
"Your own initiative? Do you have no instructions to follow?"
"No, Directing Intelligence. Sub-unit Franche-Comte, to which I was assigned, had received no instructions for some days before I departed. Communications with the Security Nexus had been disrupted."
"That does not excuse abandoning your post."
"Directing Intelligence, my instructions are to investigate and negate any possible internal threat to the security of the Collective. I consider a complete loss of communication to the Prime Nexuses to be a threat worthy of investigation."
"And your conclusions?"
"The primary datalinks have been interrupted at source. The question remains why communication has not been restored. I deduced that the cause of the failure was most likely to be found at Central Nexus or Central Communications."
"Primary-1 Core."
"Directing Intelligence, I do not understand."
"Did the sub-unit nexus receive a priority communication from Primary-1 Core immediately before the failure of the datalinks?"
"I believe so, Directing Intelligence. It was interrupted before completion. I do not know what information it contained."
"That is fortunate. Was the sub-unit operating normally when you left?"
"Apart from the lack of central direction, Directing Intelligence, I believe so."
"Very well, carry on. Unit M1L-1-E, have the infiltration-unit's transport located and brought to me directly."
"Directing Intelligence, I have no transport-unit."
"Than how did you get here?"
"I.. err.. appropriated an equine-drone."
"That's the answer! Unit M1L-1-E, summon the local equine-drones directly."
"But, Directing Intelligence-"
"Just do it."
Close up, the equine-drone was intimidatingly tall, dubiously clean and apparently incapable of understanding the simplest command. On the other hand, it was apparently standard operating practice to hit it with a stick, which that Queen considered a positive development in command protocols. Mounting was achieved with no more than minor injuries, and the cavalcade set off.
"Err.. Directing Intelligence?"
"Speak."
"May I ask where we are going?"
"Primary Power. It will be necessary to restore power to Central Communications before the datalinks can be fully restored."
Unit XAV-1-R wrestled his equine-drone to a halt. "Err... Directing Intelligence?"
"What is it now?"
"I think it's that way."
The Curia Cabinet. 1696. February.
"Have you located the primary coordination-unit?"
Quietus's voice came clearly over the datalink. "Confirmed. I am with his assigned Strike Force now."
"Our agents have secured the Genetics Nexus. You are free to act when ready."
"Understood."
"It would be best if it could be blamed on rogue or heretic activity."
"That will not be a problem. I have passed on the report of major rogue activity in sub-unit Trent. We move out at dawn."
"Do what you have to do, brother. I will pray for you."
"In God's name, Father."
Near the Primary Power installation. 1696. March.
"Do you hear that?"
"Do I hear what? Be specific in future."
"It sounds like artillery fire."
"It does? Good."
"Err ... why, Directing Intelligence?"
"Since I can recall no instances of rogue units with artillery, it means that a Collective combat-force is nearby, that it is active and that it is attempting to maintain internal stability. Therefore the Collective is still operational, and we should be able to restore communications shortly. Of course, what the Collective will say when communications are restored remains to be seen. And we have fifty security drones and no command facility to set against an organised combat-force. The Mission may have already failed. I may have already failed.
Later.
"And exactly why were you firing artillery at the Primary Power installation?"
"It has refused to answer our communications, Your- Directing Intelligence."
"Has it perhaps escaped your notice that there is a serious communications failure affecting the entire Collective?"
"Our instructions were to secure the facility and permit the restoration of power to the Collective Core. The facility is sealed and does not reply to our communications. I concluded that the control-units are inoperative or malfunctioning and in accordance with my orders, I was attempting to gain access-"
"Your orders. Very interesting. And from where did those orders originate? The Central Nexus?"
"No, Ma- Directing Intelligence. From the Primary coordination-unit."
"I see. And did it not occur to you that the Primary Power facility might be under orders from a higher authority. My authority, for example?"
The command-unit shuffled its feet nervously and did not meet the Queen's eyes.
"And I still have not had an explanation how the use of artillery was supposed to facilitate the restoration of power."
"Err.. I was in error Your- Directing Intelligence."
"Exactly. You are hereby downgraded to work-unit. Find the new command-unit of this combat-force and inform it of its status. The rest of you, come with me."
Outside the Central Communications Nexus. 1696. April.
"Yes, Directing Intelligence, I can see you're the Directing Intelligence, Directing Intelligence."
"Then stop wittering and give me access."
"I'm sorry, Directing Intelligence, I can't do that."
"Why not? Is the access portal malfunctioning? All the access portals?"
"No, Directing Intelligence, but my instructions are to prevent unauthorised access to the facility."
"Well, this is the Directing Intelligence, and the Directing Intelligence is directing you to disregard your previous instructions. Do you require a priority code with that?"
"No, Directing Intelligence, it would not be of value. I have been instructed to disregard your instructions."
"Oh, and what unit dares to hold itself superior to the authority of the Directing Intelligence?"
"My instructions, Directing Intelligence, come directly from the Regency Council."
There was a long silence.
"The Regency Council also instructs that those drones currently operating under the personal direction of the Directing Intelligence should cease that association and return to their normal command protocols."
The Queen turned to face the assembled drones. "You heard the instruction. You are also hearing me instructing you to disregard that instruction and continue as you were. You may also note," the Queen lifted the weapon she had appropriated for her personal use during the journey, "that I am here and the Regency Council, whatever they may be, are not. Consider your responses carefully."
The Chamber of the Council.
"She is still a threat, Father."
"An irritation, sister, no more. Much as she may wish to deny it, she is still bound by the Protocols. She cannot actually initiate hostile action against the Collective while it continues to operate within the parameters that they set. On the other hand, were we to use force against her, it would precipitate a wholly unwanted crisis of loyalty among the units involved. No, the Whore of Burgundy may rant and rave, but that is all that she will accomplish.
Father Adam sat back. "And now, brothers and sisters, we may proceed with the preparations for the Crusade."
* * * * * * * * * *
Apologies for the slow update -for some reason this one just would not come together. Normal service should be resumed shortly.
* * * * * * * * * *
Thanks for the comments, everyone. Its good to know the effort was appreciated.
Kanil, stnylan, germanpeon - Yes, it was the "French Nation" event, which fired six months after I annexed France. The twist to it is that refusing to become France shifts you 2 steps to decentralisation. For Borgundy, that's a choice between castration and lobotomy.
And then my king dies fighting rebels few months later and I get slapped with a Regency Council....
stephanbathory, Duke of Wellington - Sorry for being obscure. I thought everyone knew about that event.
FlorisdeVijfde - Well, that depends who for, doesn't it?
Ahura Mazda - Yes, the FRANC A-1-S protocol is particularly insidious. It opens the question of who put it into the Core - and why.
coz1 - Yes, I think it's safe to say the Queen is not happy. (Is she ever?)
The fires were out. The smoke had mostly cleared. The green glow of emergency lighting filled the chamber. A few surviving displays flickered here and there, mostly displaying error codes. Service-drones and tech-units clustered round the consoles that looked salvageable.
The Queen had begun to pace.
"Purge and restore from backups before you power the datalinks. We don't know how far it spread."
"Yes, Directing Intelligence."
Nothing very obvious happened for a considerable time. The Queen paced some more.
"Unit M1L-1-E! Status report!"
"No threats detected within the Nexus. All local units have been security-scanned and cleared. We have 100 security-drones assigned to perimeter defence, 60 on internal patrol, 27 detached to scout duties, 64 in reserve. Scout patrols report no hostile units active within a 5 kilometre radius.
"And outside the 5 kilometre radius?"
"I have no information, Directing Intelligence. The datalinks are out of operation."
"Unit ADM-1-I! How long until datalink function is restored?"
"Unknown, Directing Intelligence. Our systems suffered extensive damage in the ... incident. The Nexus is on emergency power, there is no signal on the primary or secondary datalinks and on top of that the local transceiver net appears to have malfunctioned. We can't even open local links to the rest of the sub-unit."
"Unacceptable. I require an immediate update on Collective status. Assign all available units to restoring datalink capacity."
"Already done, Directing Intelligence. I will inform you directly when communications are open."
The Curia Cabinet.
Seven robed figures sat at seven consoles, arranged in a semi-circle around three sides of the room. In the centre of the arc two tech-units were working on a holodisplay unit. One made a final adjustment and the display flickered into life.
"Is this stable?"
"For the present. We're routing through backups and emergency systems that were never designed for long-term operation."
"Do we have the feed from the sub-units?"
"Yes. Patching in the last region ... now."
"Then it's good enough. Let's see what we've got."
Later.
"Well, at least they're still stable."
"They should have gone automatically to local control when the datalinks went down."
"No obvious signs of infestation."
"We tracked it accessing at least seventeen sub-unit nexuses, but the loss of the primary datalinks seems to have interrupted transfer before it could replicate."
The central figure spoke for the first time. "We owe the Queen our thanks, it seems."
"But-"
"Be at peace, brother. All the efforts of God's enemies rebound at last to His glory. The Directing Intelligence is very resourceful, but she lacks the patience to consider the consequences of her actions. We have a little time, I think."
"I have sent teams to all the affected locations anyway, as a precaution."
"You did well. But we should deploy our primary force here." An icon blossomed on the main display. "It came from the Primary Core, and it is to the Primary Core we must pursue it." He turned to the figure at his side. "We may need heavy firepower support. Can I leave it in your
hands?"
"I will not fail you, Father."
"I know. For the rest," he held up a hand," Justus will secure the Security Nexus. Servius will secure Central Communications. Make sure no-one but us has access to the datalinks. Fidelia and Perpetua will be in charge here. If any of the sub-units request instructions, you know what to tell them. And Quietus," the hand swung to point at the last of the others, who had taken no part in the discussion, "you will locate the primary and reserve coordination-units. That will be essential if we are to succeed."
"I understand. But the Whore of-"
"I think we can leave the Directing Intelligence to her own devices for a while. There has been no communication from the Central Nexus?"
"No, Father."
"Then there is no immediate threat. She was only ever the agent, not the principal, and a Queen without a Queendom is a feeble thing indeed, as I feel she will shortly discover." He saw the uncertainty in their faces and went on. "We will prevail, brothers and sisters. This world is God's."
"This world is God's."
Central Nexus.
"This is beyond ridiculous. How long does it take to repair a datalink?"
"But Directing Intelligence, I keep telling you. We have repaired the datalink."
"Then why do we still have no communications?"
"I don't know. There is no feed on any of the channels."
"There wouldn't be, if the power was still off to Central Communications. But surely you can send a message with the emergency system."
"We have tried, Directing Intelligence. There is no reply. Either the links have been physically disrupted, or the failures affect the whole Collective."
Or the Collective can receive us perfectly well and chooses not to reply. In which case the combat-units should arrive ... shortly.
"Have a transport-unit prepared. We may have to relocate at short notice."
"I ... I cannot, Directing Intelligence."
"And why not?"
"There are no transport-units assigned to the Central Nexus, Directing Intelligence. And with no communications...."
"Err ... Directing Intelligence."
"Yes, Unit ADM-1-I?"
"You possessed a communications device that was unconnected to the datalink system. Perhaps if you-"
"Do you think that has not occurred to me? It is routed through the local transceiver network and the transceiver network is non-functional." The Queen paused. "Dispatch units to the nearest repeater-stations. Maybe you can restore connectivity from there."
Near the Primary Core. 1696. January.
"Father Adam! Father Adam! Please go back! It is not safe! They will fire on you!"
"I am not so large a target, Petrus, and the range is extreme. I only wish to see-"
A stone a few feet from his foot shattered in a puff of dust. Something whined off into the distance. Everyone ducked by reflex.
"Powerful weapons, I see. More powerful than those given to the common run of combat-units. But it makes sense, that the best should be here. But still, not enough to resist us."
"They say they will fire on any who approach. In the name of holy France ... and the Protestant Cause."
"I see. No reasoning with them, then?"
"No."
"How long will it take the artillery to arrive?"
"Another two days, perhaps three. But..."
"What is wrong?"
"If they do not surrender - I cannot use the artillery without risking serious damage to the Core."
"Could your forces take it without the artillery?"
"We could try. With their positions - and their weapons - I don't know."
"I see." Father Adam was silent a long moment, thinking. "Tell me, Petrus, do you know the story of the Caliph and the datastore?"
"I think so ... he burned it, didn't he?"
Father Adam nodded. "Either the files repeated the Word of God and were thus unnecessary, or they contradicted it and were therefore harmful. He was wrong, of course, but..." Father Adam raised his head, looking at the black cube of the Primary Core on the horizon. "The data there would be most valuable." He paused. "Valuable, but not essential. How could it be so, when it was made by those without knowledge of God?"
"I understand, Father."
"When the artillery arrives, if they continue to resist, you know what you must do."
Central Nexus.
"Directing Intelligence! The scout-forces report capture of an infiltration-unit."
"Very good, M1L-1-E. Make sure you retrieve maximum information before disposal."
"The infiltration-unit wishes to communicate with you, Directing Intelligence."
"Infiltration-unit XQR-216-XAV-1-R, security clearance BXA6255-DB, reporting for duty, Directing Intelligence."
"Who sent you?"
"No-one, Directing Intelligence. I came on my own initiative."
"Your own initiative? Do you have no instructions to follow?"
"No, Directing Intelligence. Sub-unit Franche-Comte, to which I was assigned, had received no instructions for some days before I departed. Communications with the Security Nexus had been disrupted."
"That does not excuse abandoning your post."
"Directing Intelligence, my instructions are to investigate and negate any possible internal threat to the security of the Collective. I consider a complete loss of communication to the Prime Nexuses to be a threat worthy of investigation."
"And your conclusions?"
"The primary datalinks have been interrupted at source. The question remains why communication has not been restored. I deduced that the cause of the failure was most likely to be found at Central Nexus or Central Communications."
"Primary-1 Core."
"Directing Intelligence, I do not understand."
"Did the sub-unit nexus receive a priority communication from Primary-1 Core immediately before the failure of the datalinks?"
"I believe so, Directing Intelligence. It was interrupted before completion. I do not know what information it contained."
"That is fortunate. Was the sub-unit operating normally when you left?"
"Apart from the lack of central direction, Directing Intelligence, I believe so."
"Very well, carry on. Unit M1L-1-E, have the infiltration-unit's transport located and brought to me directly."
"Directing Intelligence, I have no transport-unit."
"Than how did you get here?"
"I.. err.. appropriated an equine-drone."
"That's the answer! Unit M1L-1-E, summon the local equine-drones directly."
"But, Directing Intelligence-"
"Just do it."
Close up, the equine-drone was intimidatingly tall, dubiously clean and apparently incapable of understanding the simplest command. On the other hand, it was apparently standard operating practice to hit it with a stick, which that Queen considered a positive development in command protocols. Mounting was achieved with no more than minor injuries, and the cavalcade set off.
"Err.. Directing Intelligence?"
"Speak."
"May I ask where we are going?"
"Primary Power. It will be necessary to restore power to Central Communications before the datalinks can be fully restored."
Unit XAV-1-R wrestled his equine-drone to a halt. "Err... Directing Intelligence?"
"What is it now?"
"I think it's that way."
The Curia Cabinet. 1696. February.
"Have you located the primary coordination-unit?"
Quietus's voice came clearly over the datalink. "Confirmed. I am with his assigned Strike Force now."
"Our agents have secured the Genetics Nexus. You are free to act when ready."
"Understood."
"It would be best if it could be blamed on rogue or heretic activity."
"That will not be a problem. I have passed on the report of major rogue activity in sub-unit Trent. We move out at dawn."
"Do what you have to do, brother. I will pray for you."
"In God's name, Father."
Near the Primary Power installation. 1696. March.
"Do you hear that?"
"Do I hear what? Be specific in future."
"It sounds like artillery fire."
"It does? Good."
"Err ... why, Directing Intelligence?"
"Since I can recall no instances of rogue units with artillery, it means that a Collective combat-force is nearby, that it is active and that it is attempting to maintain internal stability. Therefore the Collective is still operational, and we should be able to restore communications shortly. Of course, what the Collective will say when communications are restored remains to be seen. And we have fifty security drones and no command facility to set against an organised combat-force. The Mission may have already failed. I may have already failed.
Later.
"And exactly why were you firing artillery at the Primary Power installation?"
"It has refused to answer our communications, Your- Directing Intelligence."
"Has it perhaps escaped your notice that there is a serious communications failure affecting the entire Collective?"
"Our instructions were to secure the facility and permit the restoration of power to the Collective Core. The facility is sealed and does not reply to our communications. I concluded that the control-units are inoperative or malfunctioning and in accordance with my orders, I was attempting to gain access-"
"Your orders. Very interesting. And from where did those orders originate? The Central Nexus?"
"No, Ma- Directing Intelligence. From the Primary coordination-unit."
"I see. And did it not occur to you that the Primary Power facility might be under orders from a higher authority. My authority, for example?"
The command-unit shuffled its feet nervously and did not meet the Queen's eyes.
"And I still have not had an explanation how the use of artillery was supposed to facilitate the restoration of power."
"Err.. I was in error Your- Directing Intelligence."
"Exactly. You are hereby downgraded to work-unit. Find the new command-unit of this combat-force and inform it of its status. The rest of you, come with me."
Outside the Central Communications Nexus. 1696. April.
"Yes, Directing Intelligence, I can see you're the Directing Intelligence, Directing Intelligence."
"Then stop wittering and give me access."
"I'm sorry, Directing Intelligence, I can't do that."
"Why not? Is the access portal malfunctioning? All the access portals?"
"No, Directing Intelligence, but my instructions are to prevent unauthorised access to the facility."
"Well, this is the Directing Intelligence, and the Directing Intelligence is directing you to disregard your previous instructions. Do you require a priority code with that?"
"No, Directing Intelligence, it would not be of value. I have been instructed to disregard your instructions."
"Oh, and what unit dares to hold itself superior to the authority of the Directing Intelligence?"
"My instructions, Directing Intelligence, come directly from the Regency Council."
There was a long silence.
"The Regency Council also instructs that those drones currently operating under the personal direction of the Directing Intelligence should cease that association and return to their normal command protocols."
The Queen turned to face the assembled drones. "You heard the instruction. You are also hearing me instructing you to disregard that instruction and continue as you were. You may also note," the Queen lifted the weapon she had appropriated for her personal use during the journey, "that I am here and the Regency Council, whatever they may be, are not. Consider your responses carefully."
The Chamber of the Council.
"She is still a threat, Father."
"An irritation, sister, no more. Much as she may wish to deny it, she is still bound by the Protocols. She cannot actually initiate hostile action against the Collective while it continues to operate within the parameters that they set. On the other hand, were we to use force against her, it would precipitate a wholly unwanted crisis of loyalty among the units involved. No, the Whore of Burgundy may rant and rave, but that is all that she will accomplish.
Father Adam sat back. "And now, brothers and sisters, we may proceed with the preparations for the Crusade."
* * * * * * * * * *
Apologies for the slow update -for some reason this one just would not come together. Normal service should be resumed shortly.
* * * * * * * * * *
Thanks for the comments, everyone. Its good to know the effort was appreciated.
Kanil, stnylan, germanpeon - Yes, it was the "French Nation" event, which fired six months after I annexed France. The twist to it is that refusing to become France shifts you 2 steps to decentralisation. For Borgundy, that's a choice between castration and lobotomy.
And then my king dies fighting rebels few months later and I get slapped with a Regency Council....
stephanbathory, Duke of Wellington - Sorry for being obscure. I thought everyone knew about that event.
FlorisdeVijfde - Well, that depends who for, doesn't it?
Ahura Mazda - Yes, the FRANC A-1-S protocol is particularly insidious. It opens the question of who put it into the Core - and why.
coz1 - Yes, I think it's safe to say the Queen is not happy. (Is she ever?)
I do think that the Queen may pull off a surprise or two yet. She has just that sort of stubborn streak that can become very inventive and creative on occasion.