I'm going to outline the structure, fill in the blanks later
Finishing the chain add society and engineering research deposit to the rift, in addition to other rewards. Military theory or other military-themed traits for scientists also seem like a fitting reward.
Stage 1
We have arrived to a surface of an inhabited planet.
Specifically, we have landed in a middle of a ruined city, constructed using early industrial technology. We can hear remote detonations and occasionally detect primitive fixed wing heavier than air aircrafts flying overhead, but our direct observation capabilities are obstructed the surrounding ruins. The natives are also oblivious to our presence, at least for now.
Get our bearings
Stage 2
With the modern technology at our disposal, observing the primitives was not difficult. Using the drones for covert aerial surveillance and tapping into their primitive wireless communications, we have managed to compose a fairly comprehensive picture of what was going on.
The world is populated by a primitive mammalian species that is currently embroiled in a massive military conflict. Although the belligerents are two massive alliances involving, directly or indirectly a majority of world's powers, the main conflict (Or at least the conflict we landed in the middle of) is being thought between the two: one rallied under a blue banner with some kind of heraldic avian creature, while the other represents itself with a red banner with an image of an arthropod. The ideological and cultural differences between the two, although no doubt significant to them, are trivial and obscure to us.
As it currently stands, the conflict is in a bloody stalemate, and we have landed right in the middle of so-called "no-man's land" - a treaterous stretch of terrain that neither side dares to cross to attack - for now.
[This is the only option for the particularly isolationist empires]Survey the warzone without interfering (Proceed to 3A or to 5, at random)
Attempt to contact the belligerent (Proceed to 3B)
Attack Reds
Attack Blues
Attack both sides (All proceed to 3C, take note whom we are attacking using flags, and I guess scripted locs)
Stage 3A
We spent a considerable effort surveying the battlefield, noting the logistics, troop manoeuvres and attempted engagements.
However, it seems the rift is gradually losing stability, and we will be forced to leave, or risk getting stranded forever. From now on, our ability to observe the planet will be extremely limited.
Depart (Add 5 engineering and science to rift)
Stage 3B
After the first few attempts to contact the locals through their radio channels were brushed off as "enemy machinations", we deployed long-ranged recon drones to reach and communicate with the two sides through audio channels.
Although at first we were met with the same kind of denial, we soon managed to convince them through demonstrating the superiority of our technology. Eventually the two sides agreed to call the truce and approach our sphere's position.
Stage 3C
The rift sphere is not, strictly speaking, a weapon platform, due to need to fit as much scientific equipment as possible into a relatively small vessel.
However, against such a primitive target, it doesn't really matter. Even the most basic autonomous probe, carrying equipment usually used for sample-taking can easily destroy the local forces. The targeting protocols were drafted to both maximising the casualties among their personnel, or, conversely, focus on neutralising their hardware while keeping loss of life as low as possible.
Kill their soldiers (Genocidal are locked into this)
Destroy their weapons (Pacifists and xenophiles are locked into this, unless they are also xenophobes or militarists)
Stage 4A (Targeting soldiers)
The [local/Blue/Red] soldiers were completely helpless against our drone strikes. No matter what they tried to use to shoot them down or hide from them, we were wiping them, sometimes entire platoons at the time.
Stage 4B (Targeting hardware)
The primitive internal combustion powered vehicles, gunpowder weaponry and basic low explosive stockpiles were easily devastated by our drones. Regardless of what kind of defences the [local/Blue/Red] forces attempted to implement, we easily bypassed them, neutralising most of their weaponry on the spot.
Stage 4 addendum (if one side is targeted)
The panic spread among the [Blue/Red] forces, in a belief that the [Red/Blue] forces are deploying some kind of invincible superweapon against them. Our monitoring of the latter's channels shows confusion, as they are not aware of any such weapons themselves, though many settled on assuming some kind of secret project was deployed.
Stage 4 addendum (if both sides were targeted)
Initially, both sides panicked, assuming that the other side has deployed some kind of advanced superweapon. Soon, however, it became apparent to them that a third, far more advanced side has involved itself into a conflict.
Stage 5A: Front advances
This event may happen if we don't interfere or targeted both sides; and is guaranteed to happen if we targeted one side. In the former case the winner is chosen randomly. Otherwise, it's the side we helped
The stalemate on this segment of the front has ended. [Red/Blue] side is moving in. This means we no longer remain concealed.
The advanced forces have discovered our rift sphere and set up a heavily perimeter around it. Although their weapons are very primitive by our standards, sustained attacks they are planning to smoke us out do pose considerable risk, so we need to do something now.
Stage 5B: Truce and contact
This event will happen if we talked to them, and has higher chance of happening if we were targeting both sides
Aware of our presence on the battlefield, the two sides have called a temporary truce. Now both Red and Blue forces are approaching our rift sphere, carrying as much heavy ordinance as possible in order to break inside, if they have to. Although their technology is very primitive by our standards, we need to take action before they succeed in damaging the rift sphere.
Pull the cord and depart (Can't do it if we invited them)
Introduce ourselves
[Militarist or Xenophile]Broadcast message commending their courage (Get extra unity and maybe a trait)
[Xenophobe or Pacifist]Broadcast message denouncing their savagery (Same)
[Xenophobe, non-xenophile militarist or gestalt option only]Deploy a plasma charge to incinirate everyone (Go to Stage 6C)
Stage 6A
A primitive ground war might be illuminating to observe, but risk of direct involvement is not worth the reward.
The locals will, no doubt, spend a lot of time wondering what exactly happened during their war, and likely will never find the answer.
Stage 6B
We are setting up the communication system that will allow us to remain safely within the sphere and communicate with the locals through audio channels. Aware now of our alien nature, they are waiting us to say something regarding their war.
Offer to mediate peace talk (Go to Stage 7A)
[Not pacifist]Encourage them to keep fighting (Go to Stage 7B or 7C)
[Megacorp, xenophile or materialist only, costs a chunk of CG, I guess?]Ask to buy their hardware (Go to Stage 7D)
Stage 6C
Venting plasma engulfed the surrounding area in a massive fireball. It is harmless to us, but every soldier in the vicinity was instantly vaporised, leaving no credible witnesses to our presence. The surrounding area will be inaccessible for a time being, allowing us to continue observation in peace.
Proceed to 7B or 7C
Stage 7A
[The commanders of the both sides/The Red/Blue commanders] seemed receptive to our urging for peace, seeing little point in continued fighting in wake of their discoveries.
Yet, they confess that they have little hope in convincing their national leaders in opening the negotiations, and worry that this whole incident will be suppressed just so the war could continue. Since we can't follow them due to position of the rift and properties of this plane, we can't directly influence them either.
Wish them luck anyway
[If you attacked someone]Tell them to testify of destructive power beyond their world
[If you didn't attack anyone or traded]Tell them to testify of wonders beyond their world
Stage 7B: The Victory is at Hand
Guaranteed if you were hitting one side. If you get here from Front Shift path, chances are high for this outcome. Low chances from Ceasefire path
The hostilities soon resumed, and the [Red/Blue] forced eventually pushed the [Blue/Red] forces backwards and out of our remote surveillance range, passing the Rift Sphere as they advanced. Judging by radio intercepts, the [Blue/Red] military efforts are tethering on the brink of collapse.
Now located in the rear of their army, the sphere is placed under constant guard by the [Red/Blue] troops. Even though they did not make any attempts to breach it so far, we expect them to try something eventually. The direct observation of their world is no longer productive. It's time to leave.
Stage 7C: Indecisive and Pointless
If you didn't take a side, can happen. High chance if they both approached it
[The two armies have withdrawn to their original positions and the fighting continued./The [Red/Blue] terrotorial gains did not last and they were eventually pushed back, turning area around the sphere into contested ground]
We maintained passive observation for a considerable amount of time, but neither side was able to achieve a meaningful breakthrough. We have exhausted most avenues of study a direct observation could provide. Time to depart.
Stage 7D: Primitive Hardware
The military hardware used by the locals is of no use to us military-speaking, but it does offer certain insights in how they thing and how their military doctrine evolved. In return we offered them some of our advanced rations and survival gear.
But the trade negotiations are taking precious time before the fighting continues. If we are to provide any input, we will need to provide it now.
(You get a random primitive breakthrough if possible, maybe a specimen if there's a fitting sprite?)
The options are a repeat from 6 and two exit options from 5B.
Stage 8A
The commanders of the [local/Blue/Red] forces departed, pledging to tell of what happened here.
However, it doesn't seem like their testimony had any effect, except for turning their national leadership against them. Judging by the radio intercepts, they were all arrested, fired or replaced and the reports of our involvement were branded as enemy propaganda. The fighting continues unimpeded.
Resolve the war into 7B and 7C
Stage 8B
The outcome is more likely if you tell them to talk about terrors or wonders. Terrors are more effective if you hit them both. Wonders are more effective if you traded. It's less effective if one side has pushed through
The news of our presence spread far beyond the front lines, among the higher ups, politicians and the general population. [The marvels of our technology/The destructive power of our technology] left a profound impression on them and convinced them that the fighting they are currently involved in are not as important. Both sides withdrawn from our position.
Unfortunately, due to evolving state of the Astral Rift, our presence here is no longer viable. It's time to depart
The rift produces 10 society instead
Epilogue
Several decades after the event concluded, if you interacted with the soldiers and left witnesses, there's a chance of follow up (The same player would explored the rift needs to be in control of the system, to avoid plot holes). Both leaders are rift-wrapped, decently leveled and maybe with a special trait. I haven't thought of any names for anything, just think of some gibberish.
Primitive Rift Sphere
We are detecting activity around the Astral Rift in [System].
A vessel resembling our own rift sphere has emerged. The technology behind it is much more primitive, and it's surprising it's viable at all. We are detecting the signal from the sphere.
On Screen
Scientist outcome
If you brokered peace, it's guaranteed. If you at least tried and war ended in stalemate, there's a chance
Greetings. I am [Name].
I'm representing the united nations of the world you once visited. I'm not sure how much time have passed on your side, but here we have achieved a lot. Our planet is finally at peace.
Your visit is our first - and so far only - confirmed alien contact in our history and as one of the brightest minds of our generation, I was sent to humbly request to join you as an envoy of our people and as a scholar in service of both worlds.
[If outcome is 8B] So, our mediation took hold?
Oh yes, indeed it did. This event is considered one of the most important in our history. Everything our civilization is is shaped by it. We will be eternally grateful for your involvement
[If outcome is anything else]So, who won?
The cost extracted by this war was too great to consider anyone a victor. Still, we have moved on. The war is a distant memory by now, but one that defined the course of our history. And your urging for peace defined it.
Commander outcome
Happens if you encouraged them to fight, less likely if it's a stalemate
Ah, so it is true. It is possible to break through to another worlds.
I am [Name], the champion of the great cleansing carried in your name. Once you have graced us with your presence and taught us the importance of strife. I only wish to pay my respects to you and, if you are willing, to offer my services in your own conquests. What say you, teachers?
Great Cleansing?
Oh yes. The great flame that burnt the weakness off our world. Your wisdom inspired our ancestors to fight. I am one of the greatest warlord lineages, served this cause with valor.
Who won the war in the end?
None that you know. They were too weak and too stagnant. Those who knew of you firsthand were inspired to overthrow the old order and build a new one. It is truly a thing of beauty.
I'm going to outline the structure, fill in the blanks later
Finishing the chain add society and engineering research deposit to the rift, in addition to other rewards. Military theory or other military-themed traits for scientists also seem like a fitting reward.
Stage 1
We have arrived to a surface of an inhabited planet.
Specifically, we have landed in a middle of a ruined city, constructed using early industrial technology. We can hear remote detonations and occasionally detect primitive fixed wing heavier than air aircrafts flying overhead, but our direct observation capabilities are obstructed the surrounding ruins. The natives are also oblivious to our presence, at least for now.
Stage 2
With the modern technology at our disposal, observing the primitives was not difficult. Using the drones for covert aerial surveillance and tapping into their primitive wireless communications, we have managed to compose a fairly comprehensive picture of what was going on.
The world is populated by a primitive mammalian species that is currently embroiled in a massive military conflict. Although the belligerents are two massive alliances involving, directly or indirectly a majority of world's powers, the main conflict (Or at least the conflict we landed in the middle of) is being thought between the two: one rallied under a blue banner with some kind of heraldic avian creature, while the other represents itself with a red banner with an image of an arthropod. The ideological and cultural differences between the two, although no doubt significant to them, are trivial and obscure to us.
As it currently stands, the conflict is in a bloody stalemate, and we have landed right in the middle of so-called "no-man's land" - a treaterous stretch of terrain that neither side dares to cross to attack - for now.
Stage 3A
We spent a considerable effort surveying the battlefield, noting the logistics, troop manoeuvres and attempted engagements.
However, it seems the rift is gradually losing stability, and we will be forced to leave, or risk getting stranded forever. From now on, our ability to observe the planet will be extremely limited.
Stage 3B
After the first few attempts to contact the locals through their radio channels were brushed off as "enemy machinations", we deployed long-ranged recon drones to reach and communicate with the two sides through audio channels.
Although at first we were met with the same kind of denial, we soon managed to convince them through demonstrating the superiority of our technology. Eventually the two sides agreed to call the truce and approach our sphere's position.
Stage 3C
The rift sphere is not, strictly speaking, a weapon platform, due to need to fit as much scientific equipment as possible into a relatively small vessel.
However, against such a primitive target, it doesn't really matter. Even the most basic autonomous probe, carrying equipment usually used for sample-taking can easily destroy the local forces. The targeting protocols were drafted to both maximising the casualties among their personnel, or, conversely, focus on neutralising their hardware while keeping loss of life as low as possible.
Stage 4A (Targeting soldiers)
The [local/Blue/Red] soldiers were completely helpless against our drone strikes. No matter what they tried to use to shoot them down or hide from them, we were wiping them, sometimes entire platoons at the time.
Stage 4B (Targeting hardware)
The primitive internal combustion powered vehicles, gunpowder weaponry and basic low explosive stockpiles were easily devastated by our drones. Regardless of what kind of defences the [local/Blue/Red] forces attempted to implement, we easily bypassed them, neutralising most of their weaponry on the spot.
Stage 4 addendum (if one side is targeted)
The panic spread among the [Blue/Red] forces, in a belief that the [Red/Blue] forces are deploying some kind of invincible superweapon against them. Our monitoring of the latter's channels shows confusion, as they are not aware of any such weapons themselves, though many settled on assuming some kind of secret project was deployed.
Stage 4 addendum (if both sides were targeted)
Initially, both sides panicked, assuming that the other side has deployed some kind of advanced superweapon. Soon, however, it became apparent to them that a third, far more advanced side has involved itself into a conflict.
Stage 5A: Front advances
This event may happen if we don't interfere or targeted both sides; and is guaranteed to happen if we targeted one side. In the former case the winner is chosen randomly. Otherwise, it's the side we helped
The stalemate on this segment of the front has ended. [Red/Blue] side is moving in. This means we no longer remain concealed.
The advanced forces have discovered our rift sphere and set up a heavily perimeter around it. Although their weapons are very primitive by our standards, sustained attacks they are planning to smoke us out do pose considerable risk, so we need to do something now.
Stage 5B: Truce and contact
This event will happen if we talked to them, and has higher chance of happening if we were targeting both sides
Aware of our presence on the battlefield, the two sides have called a temporary truce. Now both Red and Blue forces are approaching our rift sphere, carrying as much heavy ordinance as possible in order to break inside, if they have to. Although their technology is very primitive by our standards, we need to take action before they succeed in damaging the rift sphere.
Stage 6A
A primitive ground war might be illuminating to observe, but risk of direct involvement is not worth the reward.
The locals will, no doubt, spend a lot of time wondering what exactly happened during their war, and likely will never find the answer.
Stage 6B
We are setting up the communication system that will allow us to remain safely within the sphere and communicate with the locals through audio channels. Aware now of our alien nature, they are waiting us to say something regarding their war.
Stage 6C
Venting plasma engulfed the surrounding area in a massive fireball. It is harmless to us, but every soldier in the vicinity was instantly vaporised, leaving no credible witnesses to our presence. The surrounding area will be inaccessible for a time being, allowing us to continue observation in peace.
Stage 7A
[The commanders of the both sides/The Red/Blue commanders] seemed receptive to our urging for peace, seeing little point in continued fighting in wake of their discoveries.
Yet, they confess that they have little hope in convincing their national leaders in opening the negotiations, and worry that this whole incident will be suppressed just so the war could continue. Since we can't follow them due to position of the rift and properties of this plane, we can't directly influence them either.
Stage 7B: The Victory is at Hand
Guaranteed if you were hitting one side. If you get here from Front Shift path, chances are high for this outcome. Low chances from Ceasefire path
The hostilities soon resumed, and the [Red/Blue] forced eventually pushed the [Blue/Red] forces backwards and out of our remote surveillance range, passing the Rift Sphere as they advanced. Judging by radio intercepts, the [Blue/Red] military efforts are tethering on the brink of collapse.
Now located in the rear of their army, the sphere is placed under constant guard by the [Red/Blue] troops. Even though they did not make any attempts to breach it so far, we expect them to try something eventually. The direct observation of their world is no longer productive. It's time to leave.
Stage 7C: Indecisive and Pointless
If you didn't take a side, can happen. High chance if they both approached it
[The two armies have withdrawn to their original positions and the fighting continued./The [Red/Blue] terrotorial gains did not last and they were eventually pushed back, turning area around the sphere into contested ground]
We maintained passive observation for a considerable amount of time, but neither side was able to achieve a meaningful breakthrough. We have exhausted most avenues of study a direct observation could provide. Time to depart.
Stage 7D: Primitive Hardware
The military hardware used by the locals is of no use to us military-speaking, but it does offer certain insights in how they thing and how their military doctrine evolved. In return we offered them some of our advanced rations and survival gear.
But the trade negotiations are taking precious time before the fighting continues. If we are to provide any input, we will need to provide it now.
(You get a random primitive breakthrough if possible, maybe a specimen if there's a fitting sprite?)
Stage 8A
The commanders of the [local/Blue/Red] forces departed, pledging to tell of what happened here.
However, it doesn't seem like their testimony had any effect, except for turning their national leadership against them. Judging by the radio intercepts, they were all arrested, fired or replaced and the reports of our involvement were branded as enemy propaganda. The fighting continues unimpeded.
Stage 8B
The outcome is more likely if you tell them to talk about terrors or wonders. Terrors are more effective if you hit them both. Wonders are more effective if you traded. It's less effective if one side has pushed through
The news of our presence spread far beyond the front lines, among the higher ups, politicians and the general population. [The marvels of our technology/The destructive power of our technology] left a profound impression on them and convinced them that the fighting they are currently involved in are not as important. Both sides withdrawn from our position.
Unfortunately, due to evolving state of the Astral Rift, our presence here is no longer viable. It's time to depart
Epilogue
Several decades after the event concluded, if you interacted with the soldiers and left witnesses, there's a chance of follow up (The same player would explored the rift needs to be in control of the system, to avoid plot holes). Both leaders are rift-wrapped, decently leveled and maybe with a special trait. I haven't thought of any names for anything, just think of some gibberish.
Primitive Rift Sphere
We are detecting activity around the Astral Rift in [System].
A vessel resembling our own rift sphere has emerged. The technology behind it is much more primitive, and it's surprising it's viable at all. We are detecting the signal from the sphere.
Scientist outcome
If you brokered peace, it's guaranteed. If you at least tried and war ended in stalemate, there's a chance
Greetings. I am [Name].
I'm representing the united nations of the world you once visited. I'm not sure how much time have passed on your side, but here we have achieved a lot. Our planet is finally at peace.
Your visit is our first - and so far only - confirmed alien contact in our history and as one of the brightest minds of our generation, I was sent to humbly request to join you as an envoy of our people and as a scholar in service of both worlds.
Commander outcome
Happens if you encouraged them to fight, less likely if it's a stalemate
Ah, so it is true. It is possible to break through to another worlds.
I am [Name], the champion of the great cleansing carried in your name. Once you have graced us with your presence and taught us the importance of strife. I only wish to pay my respects to you and, if you are willing, to offer my services in your own conquests. What say you, teachers?