New Buffalo
Slipstream Links
Stats
- -1 Technology (atomic power)
- -2 Environment (hostile environment)
- +2 Resources (one significant export)
Background
No one quite remembers how or when the main ammonia world in New Buffalo was colonized. But no one doubts why: the Space Elevator, and the presence of vigorous - if non-sentient - ammonia-based life. The dynamic ecosystem contains thousands upon thousands of species yet to be discovered. Some, sad to say, are also large and ravenous, and more than willing to take a big bite of any person caught out in a bad situation.
The Space Elevator's mysteries have proven impossible to crack. It's there, it works, it doesn't seem like it can break (even after several attempts, intentional and not). A species called "ice krill," it was discovered, was pretty useful. With minimal processing, it could be safely eaten. It could be a chemical fuel. It was recognized as biomass by Topiary. It could be turned into wearable fiber. It was a decent semiconductor. The Space Elevator made mass shipments not just possible, but hugely profitable.
Currently, combines run the planet. They intentionally keep tech levels down so as to keep a labor force dependent on the local combine. Given the opportunity, everyone would move to someplace better. In subtle and not-so-subtle ways, the combines make sure those opportunities are few and far between.
Aspects
- Ice krill: so many uses
- If it keeps you warm, it's okay
- Working space elevator of unknown origin
