Ethan returned to the observation deck, where the vastness of the cosmos unfolded before him. The simulated battles and intricate designs of the past weeks played in his mind like a vivid dream. Each star seemed like a distant promise—a challenge to overcome, a triumph waiting to be claimed. Yet the weight of his ambitions anchored him in the present.
Eighteen months had passed since his arrival in this new galaxy, and in that time, his understanding of the universe had expanded beyond anything he thought possible. He had studied the intricate hierarchies of power: the three Tier-1 superstates that ruled the Galactic Domain, the enigmatic Galactic Shipwright Guild (GSG), and the myriad alien species—each with its own strengths, cultures, and threats. He had learned not only about the importance of the Shipbuilder Ascension System but also the harsh political and economic realities that defined life here.
But for all his knowledge, he faced an undeniable truth: progress required resources—resources he did not have. As a Nexus Academy student, he'd gained the foundation of shipbuilding theory, moving steadily through the novice level. Yet theory was not enough. He needed practical experience, real-world results, and above all, money.
When Ethan approached his instructor about this challenge, the older man had given him a knowing smile and pointed toward guild mission hall.
"Every member of the GSG starts somewhere. Even novice designers can contribute. Missions are the gateway to opportunity."
Inside the Mission Hall
Ethan stepped into the Mission Hall of the Galactic Shipwright Guild (GSG), the air humming with quiet energy. The expansive chamber was a masterpiece of advanced engineering, with translucent walls displaying rotating holograms of galaxies, starships, and blueprints. Vaulted ceilings shimmered with an ever-shifting aurora of light, mimicking the vastness of space itself.
Rows of sleek terminals filled the room, their glowing interfaces projecting mission details into the air. Designers of all levels—students, aspirants, and master shipwrights—moved purposefully through the hall, their faces alight with focus and ambition.
Ethan approached a terminal marked with the Novice Tier Insignia: a radiant blue spiral that represented the foundational level of the GSG hierarchy. The interface hummed to life as he placed his hand on the scanner. A holographic menu appeared, and Ethan's eyes lit up as the Mission Board unfolded before him.
Each mission glimmered with prestige, featuring assignments that demanded cutting-edge innovation and creativity. Despite being tailored for novices, the technological benchmarks set by the GSG were leagues ahead of even the most advanced projects in Tier-1 superstates. These were not mere learning exercises—they were challenges that pushed the boundaries of galactic engineering.
Mission Hall Display
[Cargo Vessel Efficiency Upgrade]
The hologram displayed the Zephyr-Haul 7, its sleek yet rugged profile a testament to practicality. Despite its robust design, the ship was riddled with inefficiencies.
Mission: Reimagine the energy grid and hull design of the Zephyr-Haul 7, a cargo vessel crucial to interstellar trade, to maximize load capacity and reduce energy consumption by 30%. Must maintain warp stability under extreme gravitational conditions.
Benchmark: This ship's redesign will serve as the GSG standard for Tier-2 and below cargo vessels.
Reward: 8,000 GSG Credits + Reinforced Microalloy Kit (Tier 1)
[Stealth Shuttle Optimization]
The Aetherwing-Class Shuttle shimmered into view, its angular frame a marvel of stealth engineering. Despite its impressive profile, its maneuverability and power efficiency were suboptimal.
Mission: Enhance the stealth systems, agility, and energy consumption of the Aetherwing-Class Shuttle to operate undetected in high-radiation environments.
Benchmark: Results will redefine Tier-2 and Tier-3 shuttle standards.
Reward: 7,000 GSG Credits + Basic Stealth Plating
[Outdated Skirmisher Overhaul]
A battered Velblade-12 Skirmisher flickered into focus, a relic of a bygone era yet still widely used in skirmish fleets. Its outdated systems left much to be desired.
Mission: Update the weapon placements and thruster configuration of the Velblade-12 Skirmisher to align with modern Tier-2 combat doctrines. Combat efficiency must improve by at least 25%.
Benchmark: Will serve as a model for modernizing low-cost skirmishers across Tier-3 and below.
Reward: 10,000 GSG Credits + Kinetic Weapon Prototype (Grade B) + 50 Guild Reputation Points.
[Survey Ship Redesign]
The Horizon-Seeker Mk I floated serenely in the projection, its design emphasizing planetary exploration. However, its sensory array lagged behind contemporary models.
Mission: Revamp the layout and sensory capabilities of the Horizon-Seeker Mk I to provide real-time planetary mapping and enhanced long-range anomaly detection.
Benchmark: Redesigns will become the baseline for GSG exploration ships in uncharted sectors.
Reward: 12,000 GSG Credits + Enhanced Sensor Package
[Light Frigate Structural Assessment]
The Stalwart Drifter appeared, its heavily reinforced frame glowing with resilience. Yet, its outdated structure slowed its movement and compromised agility.
Mission: Reinforce and optimize the structural integrity of the Stalwart Drifter while maintaining its speed and maneuverability. Requires a 20% weight reduction without compromising defense.
Benchmark: Will set the durability standard for Tier-2 and below frigates.
Reward: 15,000 GSG Credits + High-Tensile Hull Material Sample
[Exploratory Concept Design]
A blank slate replaced the rotating ship models, representing the creative freedom offered by this mission.
Mission: Develop a blueprint for the Aurion-Scout EX, a next-generation scout ship that blends advanced reconnaissance with defensive capabilities. Designers are encouraged to propose innovative weapon integration.
Benchmark: The top designs will influence GSG's Scout Division for Tier-1 and Tier-2 reconnaissance ships.
Reward: 200,000 GSG Credits + Access to Beginner's Guild Archives
Ethan's eyes darted between the missions, each one promising not only material rewards but also a chance to contribute to Guild Standards, innovations adopted by starship fleets across the Galactic Domain. These weren't just assignments—they were opportunities to leave a mark on galactic engineering history.
His heart raced as he made his decision. The Stealth Shuttle Optimization called to him, its mix of precision and creativity aligning with his vision.
Locking in the mission, he felt a surge of determination.
"Time to prove I belong here," Ethan murmured, gripping his datapad as the mission's details synced with his system.
Stepping away from the terminal, he headed for his workstation, the holographic image of the Aetherwing-Class Shuttle already floating before him.
[Understanding the Value of GSG Credits]
The GSG Credit was a currency that transcended the boundaries of empires, valued above all other forms of currency in the Galactic Domain:
Tier-1 Superstates (Sundar Imperium, Eirith Confederacy, Solar Dominion): 100 credits = 1 GSG Credit.
Indra Empyrean: 200 credits = 1 GSG Credit.
{The Indra Empyrean, a formidable Tier-2 empire, rivals Tier-1 superstates with its unmatched technology, elite military, and vibrant culture.}
Tier-2 Empires: 10,000 credits = 1 GSG Credit.
Tier-3 States: 500,000 credits = 1 GSG Credit.
Tier-4 Regions: Nearly impossible to quantify due to economic disparities.