COMPLETE Chapter 7a: Branching Path 1

After seeing Sentinel Minor's speech, the party may choose to return and report back to him. He will be found in his quarters, not EarthCom.   SM: You know, I joined the academy because it was my destiny. My family's military, going way back. Back to Sentinel Prime, of course. I was born to be a leader. And everybody along the way told me that. They didn't tell me that being a leader was going to be like this... it's a travesty! To think that I can stand over this colony with a strong military, and people come along and ignore the rule of law? That they hold me accountable when it's some dumb gate technician's fault that the Black Shadows are even in the city to start with? That I'm being pestered all day with private parties that want me to step in and push around in things that aren't my problem? It's a disgrace. Leadership is about standing above everyone else at the parades. Not this mess. But why am I even venting to you? It's not like you would understand.   SM: Look, we've received word that the miners gave up the strike for the moment, so technically, you completed your mission. However, our partners at Drillbit Heavy Industries still aren't exactly satisfied with how you handled yourselves, so they've declined payment. I guess next time I'll just hire-- anyway, there are other messes to clean up, and I suppose you'll suffice for the job. I've got two available for you.   SM: First off, we've got another opportunity to schmooze with corporate types. Ever heard of Cogman Works? They're on track to become one of the most-valuable companies out of Tarn. I've just gotten word that the founder himself is setting up a robotics laboratory here--probably to work on those Synthoids of his, since no legislation has been passed outlawing them here. I don't care either way-- but apparently he's put in a request to help him move something? You'll go and report to him on his arrival, which should be soon.   SM: Your second option is to assist in our investigations of the Black Shadows. We need to step up our game if we want to stop them from getting their hands on... whatever it is they want. We've got a possible informant in The Back Alley that says he's willing to offer some information on the Shadows' whereabouts. You'll meet up with him, and do whatever you have to in order to get those answers.