The next step is currently in process by Andy and Michael, of overhauling how NPC objectives are defined and how they interact with the mission system. This project is slated for completion in two weeks (Monday after next), and is intended to result in a framework that will let non-player and player characters all take the same missions and react to the same universe objectives (new trade items in demand, calls for wartime reinforcements, etc). This will also make the revival of the convoy Escort Missions a much easier prospect. On the side this also involves making bots smarter in some ways, handling docking and undocking more easily, development that will be very important to the expanding roles of NPCs, as well as player-controlled cap ships and other planned expansions.