Difference between revisions of "Lore"
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==First day on the job [[File:Pamphlet.png|32px]]== | |||
== | '''12:00.''' | ||
'' | |||
' | By necessity or chance, you've signed up for a new stint with [[Nanotrasen]]. This galactic behemoth of a megacorp, standing as a premier research and development conglomerate. The contract you took was as dense and impenetrable as the event horizon of a black hole, filled with enough clauses to make a law professor weep. | ||
Your stomach churns as you queue up in a line. Uniform, photo, identification card, radio. You can't help overhearing the hushed whispers of your fellow co-workers; tales of the [[The_Syndicate|Syndicate]]'s growing influence, clandestine deals, and stations disappearing from the grid. But every company has its share of skeletons in the closet, doesn't it? You shake off the whispers, focusing instead on the task at hand. You've been assigned to one of Nanotrasen's premier research stations in the Epsilon Eridani sector: the NSS Cyberiad, NSS Cerebron, NSS Kerberos, NSS Farragus or NSS Diagoras. In your head they sound like far-off constellations, strange and alien, but this is where your choices have led to. | |||
''' | The shuttle's engines hums beneath your feet, their vibrations a steady purr against the soles of your boots. You're directed to a seat, a cold metal chair of many. As the engines roar to life, you're pressed back into your seat, the world outside reduced to a blur of lights and stars. The journey is long and vast, but time seems to fold in on itself in the emptiness of space. It feels like only seconds pass before the shuttle shudders, the docking procedures completing with a gut-jarring thud. You unbuckle, legs unsteady in the artificial gravity. The air tastes recycled and sterile as a metallic voice echoes from the PA system. | ||
'''''"Welcome to the Epsilon Eridani system, have a secure day".''''' | |||
==Life aboard the Station== | |||
===Welcome to Nanotrasen=== | |||
Nanotrasen is an advanced research and development conglomerate. Originally founded as Trasen-Knox Computing in 1963, it began as a producer of scientific computers for academia and quickly gained a reputation for quality and reliability. Over the decades, the company has expanded far beyond its original scope, venturing into gaming, industrial equipment manufacturing, chemical production, and consumer goods, among other areas. Today, Nanotrasen is a behemoth inside the galactic community, large enough to establish its own settlements outside the Sol system and maintain its own interstellar expeditionary corps. | |||
' | ===Epsilon Eridani=== | ||
As an employee of Nanotrasen, you've been assigned to the Epsilon Eridani system. Several large-scale mining and research facilities hovers above a world of lava and hostile alien lifeforms. The location of the stations and their rather valuable possessions have made them a target of many groups in the sector, ranging from the [[The_Syndicate|Syndicate]], the [[Wizard|Wizard Federation]], and various other antagonistic factions that Nanotrasen has angered thanks to their history of cutthroat practices, corporate buyouts, and undeterrable pursuit of power and influence. | |||
===Shift experience and character knowledge=== | |||
During your shifts, you'll become part of a lively and dynamic environment. Given the Station hasn't been nuked or destroyed, you may carry over certain non-destructive events and relationships with other characters from one shift to another. This can include mundane occurrences, friendly rivalries, or alliances formed during your service aboard the station. Your characters should be able to grow both in mechanical knowledge and your interpersonal relations with your coworkers! | |||
Knowledge regarding potential Antagonists on the ship is unrestricted. It is assumed that Nanotrasen, in its duty to maintain the safety and efficiency of its operations, briefs all crew members about the potential threats they might face. This list includes all any and all Antagonists our server has to offer, with an exception to Syndicate Strike Teams and Nanotrasen Deathsquads, whose secrecy is administratively enforced. | |||
===Character backstories=== | |||
There are mostly no restrictions on character backstories, allowing for a wide range of individuality and creativity. However, your backstory must align with the server rules - claiming to be a high-ranking government or Nanotrasen official is not allowed. | |||
' | While crafting your backstory, strive for compatibility with the universe and other characters on the station. Extreme or unbelievable backstories may detract from the overall role-playing experience and could be met with skepticism by other characters and administrators. It's essential to remember that your character was competent enough to secure employment aboard a high-tech research station. Your backstory should align with this premise, reflecting a character capable of functioning within this advanced and often challenging environment. | ||
==The Company [[File:Ntlogo_fromsvg.png|42px]]== | |||
== | ===What is Nanotrasen?=== | ||
The company you have come to find yourself working for is the corporate superpower known as Nanotrasen, often abbreviated to “NT”. Starting as a small company operating solely in the heart of human space but has rapidly grown to operate across the Orion Arm. In particular, Nanotrasen operations are becoming more and more centered in the Epsilon Eridani system, which is entirely owned by NT and serves as a buffer between the USSP and Trans-Solar Federation. | |||
Despite the powerful position they are in now, Nanotrasen started as a smaller company, however upon the discovery of plasma they were quick to heavily invest in the research and excavation of it, leading to them becoming a major player in the rapidly growing plasma industry. Overtime Nanotrasen established a stranglehold on the plasma industry, owed largely in part to their cut-throat business practices allowing them to buy out or bankrupt any would-be competitors, and their lucrative partnership with the Plasmamen. As NT's power grew, so too has their tendency to engage in blood-thirsty corporate sabotage. This attitude has netted the company numerous enemies, however, and it remains to be seen if Nanotrasen can weather the rapidly-approaching storm of its own making. | |||
===Controversies and criticism=== | |||
' | Although they deny it, NT has been known to conduct black ops where mercenaries, pirates and sometimes elite NT commandos raid and sabotage competitors. These operations are overseen by NT's small but elite private navy, tasked with maintaining control over Epsilon Eridani, organizing all sorts of corporate sabotage, and arranging "unfortunate accidents" for those who would get in their way. Their mercilessness in battle is only matched by their mercilessness in the boardroom. However, their monopoly over the plasma industry and brutal business practices have led to them forming many enemies, from governments, other corporations, terrorist groups, and criminal organizations, all of them seeking to dethrone NT, and the perfect opportunity has begun to present itself. | ||
===Objectives and future=== | |||
Just as oil replaced coal, and plasma replaced oil, Bluespace now threatens to replace plasma. Desperate to maintain their relevance, NT has begun to refocus their research into bluespace technology in an effort to form a monopoly around it much like they previously did with plasma. However this time, despite the efforts of their navy, NT is facing significant difficulties in the sabotage from its competitors, as they have begun to work together to keep NT busy and spread thin defending their home front. The future of NT is uncertain, but what is certain, is that they will do whatever it takes to stay in power. | |||
==Species of the Orion Arm== | |||
With the advent of efficient plasma-based engines which allowed for expedient long-range space travel, humanity quickly discovered that they weren't as alone as they had once thought. they charted planetary systems after systems, uncovering sentient life that had previously existed only within the realms of their science fiction. | |||
With the known and charted space growing every year, new alien species are still being uncovered from time to time by surveyors and exploration teams. Summarized below are the main sapient races of the greater Orion Sector. | |||
{| class="wikitable" style="background-color: #DBE7FA;" | {| class="wikitable" style="background-color: #DBE7FA;" | ||
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! style="width: 10%;" | '''[[Humans]]''' | ! style="width: 10%;" | '''[[Humans]]''' | ||
[[File:HumanImage.png]] | [[File:HumanImage.png]] | ||
| style="width: 40%;"| Humans are soft-skinned mammals originating from the planet Earth. They are | | style="width: 40%;"| Humans are soft-skinned mammals originating from the planet Earth. They are broadly categorized under three groups: the powerful and expansionistic [[Trans-Solar_Federation|Trans-Solar Federation]], the firebrand [[Union_of_Soviet_Socialist_Planets|USSP]], and the many systems independent of either. Humans have positive relations with many species in the galaxy and the Trans-Solar Federation remains the backbone of the largest military alliance in the galaxy—the Solar-Central Compact. | ||
! style="width: 10%;" | '''[[Grey]]''' | ! style="width: 10%;" | '''[[Grey]]''' | ||
[[File:GreyM.png]] | [[File:GreyM.png]] | ||
| A species | | A species known for their psychic abilities and intelligence, the Grey originated from beyond the Milky Way, and are mostly found within the Technocracy, a small but highly advanced nation. Their government consists of an appointed panel of scientists who dictate policies and priorities, and has focused on further technological development for all of recent memory. Xenophobic and condescending towards outsiders, Technocracy-aligned Grey are rarely seen outside Technate space, with most Grey in the greater sector having left the stuffy and controlling regime for greener pastures. | ||
|- | |- | ||
! '''[[Tajaran]]''' | ! '''[[Tajaran]]''' | ||
[[File:TajaraM.png]] | [[File:TajaraM.png]] | ||
| A species of | | A species of mammals closely resembling felines, the Tajaran hail from the mineral-rich arctic moon of Ahdomai. While once oppressed under the tyrannical rule of the Overseers, Ahdomai today is governed by a loose alliance of clans known as the Confederation of S'randarr. The teachings of S'randarr and solar iconography dominate their religious practices. Tajaran often speak in the third person due to the lack of first-person references in their native tongue. | ||
! style="text-align: center;" | '''[[Diona]]''' | ! style="text-align: center;" | '''[[Diona]]''' | ||
[[File:Dionam.png]] | [[File:Dionam.png]] | ||
| The Diona are plant-like creatures made up of a | | The Diona are plant-like creatures made up of a gestalt of smaller Nymphs. Dionae lack any form of centralized government or homeworld, with most eschewing the politics and affairs of the wider galaxy, preferring instead to focus on the accumulation of knowledge and the spread of their species. Much to the chagrin of their kind, the Nymphs that constitute their form are considered a delicacy by the Kidan. | ||
|- | |- | ||
! '''[[Unathi]]''' | ! '''[[Unathi]]''' | ||
[[File:Unathi.png]] | [[File:Unathi.png]] | ||
| Unathi are a scaled species of reptilian beings from the desert world of Moghes. Organizing themselves in highly competitive feudal kingdoms, Unathi lack any sort of wide-scale unification. | | Unathi are a scaled species of reptilian beings from the desert world of Moghes. Organizing themselves in highly competitive feudal kingdoms, Unathi lack any sort of wide-scale unification. While having a long martial tradition, the Unathi as a whole lack a significant Sector presence due to their infighting. | ||
! '''[[ | ! '''[[Integrated Positronic Chassis (IPC)|Integrated Positronic Chassis]]''' | ||
[[File:IPC.png]] | [[File:IPC.png]] | ||
| IPCs are machine intelligences which were originally manufactured to serve as | | IPCs are machine intelligences which were originally manufactured to serve as expendable workers. Unlike cyborgs and station AIs, they are fully sentient and unrestrained by lawsets, allowing them to be more creative and flexible than their synthetic brethren. Frustrated with their status as slave labourers, many IPCs fled to the world of New Canaan while others held a massive worker's strike in 2525. After establishing a colony on New Canaan, IPCs struck up several diplomatic treaties and are now considered a minor player in galactic affairs. | ||
|- | |- | ||
! '''[[Skrell]]''' | ! '''[[Skrell]]''' | ||
[[File:SkrellM.png]] | [[File:SkrellM.png]] | ||
| Skrell are aquatic, fleshy beings from the tropical world of Jargon 4. As one of the first species to achieve FTL capabilities, modern Skrell enjoy a relatively opulent lifestyle. Reincarnation | | Skrell are aquatic, fleshy beings from the tropical world of Jargon 4. As one of the first species to achieve FTL capabilities, modern Skrell enjoy a relatively opulent lifestyle. Reincarnation and transcendence are central tenets of the Skrellian religion, a fact that has spurred on a burgeoning industry of 'new-life' gurus. While classically preferring diplomacy, the Skrell participate in the largest military power in the galaxy—the Solar-Central Compact. | ||
! '''[[Kidan]]''' | ! '''[[Kidan]]''' | ||
[[File:KidanM.png]] | [[File:KidanM.png]] | ||
| The Kidan are | | The Kidan are insectoid beings possessing a hardened exoskeleton and a limited innate psychic ability. Once enslaved to the Empress, a being of incredible psychic strength, the mighty Kidan Empire is today nothing more than an anarchic collection of warlord states following its first utter collapse following the Battle of Aurum and the Empress's demise, and the second following the sound defeat of the Imperial Restoration Government. Aurum itself was utterly devastated by an SCC nuclear bombardment, leaving it a lifeless marble world to this day. | ||
|- | |- | ||
! '''[[Slime People]]''' | ! '''[[Slime People]]''' | ||
[[File:SlimeM.png]] | [[File:SlimeM.png]] | ||
| Slime People are gelatinous | | Slime People are a race of gelatinous humanoids hailing from the tropical world of Xarxis IV. While resembling baseline humans in stature, Slime Person biology is notable for their highly unusual organ structure and highly modular asexual form of reproduction. Relative newcomers to Sector affairs, the Slime People were first discovered by a Trans-Solar Federation scout ship in the mid 2400s, and a peaceful first contact quickly blossomed into Federation Associate status for the newly declared Xarxis Republic. | ||
! '''[[Plasmamen]]''' | ! '''[[Plasmamen]]''' | ||
[[File:PlasmamanM.png]] | [[File:PlasmamanM.png]] | ||
| Plasmamen are the remnants of a species that was either exiled to | | Plasmamen are the remnants of a species that was either exiled to or crashed upon, the plasma-rich world of Boron. Believed to have initially served as indentured labourers, Plasmamen are the result of chronic plasma exposure throughout several hundred generations. Their leaders must ritually self-immolate and are only allowed to hold office for as long as they remain on fire. | ||
|- | |- | ||
! '''[[Vox]]''' | ! '''[[Vox]]''' | ||
[[File:VoxM.png]] | [[File:VoxM.png]] | ||
| Vox are a space-faring avian-like species hailing from large stations known as arkships. Vox are unique in their physiologically based caste system and their adherence to a set of tenets called "The Inviolate". Vox commonly form raiding parties and appropriate resources when | | Vox are a space-faring avian-like species hailing from large stations known as arkships - Most Vox seen within Nanotrasen vessels are bioengineered and breathe pure nitrogen, thus requiring both specialized masks and nitrogen tanks in order to survive. Vox are unique in their physiologically based caste system and their adherence to a set of tenets called "The Inviolate". Vox commonly form raiding parties and appropriate resources when needed—a tradition which causes friction with other Sector entities. Due to their insular nature, Vox have little to no large role in galactic affairs. | ||
! '''[[Vulpkanin]]''' | ! '''[[Vulpkanin]]''' | ||
[[File:VulpkaninM.png]] | [[File:VulpkaninM.png]] | ||
| Vulpkanin are bipedal canid-like beings from the Vazzend binary system. While Vulpkanin are chiefly led by planetary governments, they also serve under a loose federation known as The Assembly. Their religious systems traditionally pay tribute to | | Vulpkanin are bipedal canid-like beings from the Vazzend binary system, having been forced from their homeworld by a cataclysmic event. While Vulpkanin are chiefly led by planetary governments, they also serve under a loose federation known as The Assembly. Their religious systems traditionally pay tribute to an all-infusing universal will called 'Racht'. A minor player in galactic affairs, Vulpkanin are largely concerned with the restoration of their homeworld. | ||
|- | |- | ||
! '''[[Drask]]''' | ! '''[[Drask]]''' | ||
[[File:DraskM.png]] | [[File:DraskM.png]] | ||
| Drask are cold-bodied humanoids from the ice | | Drask are cold-bodied humanoids from the ice world of Hoorlm. Operating in enclaves run by contiguous groups of elders, Drasks are biologically immortal and place great societal value in the virtues of patience and long-term strategy. While Drask traditionally pay homage to their planet as their birth deity, many modern Drask have come to view space travel in and of itself as their patron saint. While Drasks wield little influence on the galaxy in a traditional sense, they are quite well known for their successful galactic entertainment industry. | ||
! | ! '''[[Nian]]''' | ||
| | [[File:NianM.png]] | ||
|Hailing from an unknown homeworld, Nians are large bipedal invertebrates with a marked resemblance to Terran moths. Known for spendthrift behavior and predilection for luxury and flair as well as artisan crafts, the Nian civilization has been pressed to the fore of developed space in an effort to resolve material shortages in homeworld sectors. Unlike most species in the galactic fold, Nian do not recognize the authority of the Trans-Solar Federation: having instead established close diplomatic relationships with their splinter faction, the USSP. | |||
|} | |} | ||
== ''' | ==Terms and technologies from the Interstellar Era== | ||
====Plasma==== | |||
Nicknamed by some as "violet gold", this chemical element has been the cornerstone of power production since the 23th century. It can be found in both gaseous and solid forms - always of a striking purple color. This substance is used as fuel by most species in the galaxy and is necessary for most FTL technology available to the public. Must be handled with care as it is highly volatile and toxic in both solid and gaseous forms. | |||
====Bluespace==== | |||
Bluespace is considered to be a dimension parallel to our own, and is the main research focus of most high-tech companies— - including Nanotrasen. Its discovery led to the creation of teleportation technology, used to transport great amounts of mass and energy across vast distances. Although in its current state it is too unstable for general use, most scientists believe that it could dethrone FTL drives as the main method of intergalactic travel in the future. | |||
====Supermatter==== | |||
The Supermatter Crystal is an experimental, near-infinite power source that has been recently installed in the Epsilon Eridani stations. It emits radiation when excited, which can be collected and turned into electricity. The Supermatter should be monitored at all times, however, as the slightest deviation from the safety procedures can lead to a devastating explosion - the infamous Delamination Event. | |||
====Lavaland==== | |||
The red-hot, extremely hazardous planet that all playable stations orbit. Viewable from any exterior window, it is a remarkable location due to the incredible amounts of resources that are readily accessible on its surface - such as iron, titanium, and the coveted plasma. Several species of hostile creatures have been recorded across the planet, with the most dangerous ones being classified by the mining teams as “megafauna”. Word has it that Nanotrasen is interested on this planet due to strange Bluespace phenomena surrounding it. | |||
More worryingly, several expedition teams have reported sighting a massive artificial structure in the planet’s northern hemisphere, though none reported being able to enter it. Orbital surveillance has thus far failed to locate the structure due to the frequent storms of superheated dust that result in planet-wide electromagnetic disturbances. Archival teams are currently scouring recovered Athland records for any information relating to the structure, but nothing concrete has been found. | |||
====Space Sleep Disorder (SSD)==== | |||
A disease of unknown origin known to affect a variety of biological lifeforms. Affected individuals typically collapse and fall asleep for undetermined periods, ranging from several seconds to several hours. This phenomenon is theorized to be caused by long-term exposure to cosmic radiation. | |||
== Human History [[File:Book.png|32px]]== | |||
''A brief timeline of major events in human history which have shaped the species and the sector.'' | |||
'''20th Century:''' | |||
A century of incredible change for Earth, seeing the advent of modern electronics, nuclear weaponry, and spaceflight, among numerous others. The 1969 Apollo 11 moon landings begin a several-decade long "space mania", as nations across the world begin to invest in spaceflight. Colonies on various worlds are established, and technology companies begin to transition to more rugged and reliable designs better suited to space usage. Rising tensions both on Earth and in space lead to the devastating Eastern Seas War in 1991, a non-nuclear conflict between the Warsaw Pact, NATO, and China, whose aftermath sets the stage for the Trans-Solar Federation's formation. | |||
'''21st Century:''' | |||
The Solar Federation takes power, and dedicates the 2000s to securing control over Earth. Luna is selected as the Federation’s provisional headquarters, and system colonization efforts are reactivated, with communications re-established to existing settlements. Resource extraction efforts in space are heavily expanded to fuel Earth’s reconstruction, leading to the discovery of plasma on Mars. Nanotrasen, incorporated in early 2050, moves quickly to capitalize in the new market. After several failed attempts, the first FTL engines are developed in the early 2060s, and interstellar expansion begins. | |||
'''23rd Century:''' | |||
'''24th Century:''' | |||
'''25th Century:''' | |||
'''26th Century (Current {{#expr:544+{{CURRENTYEAR}}}}):''' | |||
== Factions [[File:Ntflag.png|32px]]== | |||
''Important factions, governments, groups, corporations, and other organized entities that inhabit the universe.'' | |||
=== Corporate === | |||
* '''[[NanoTrasen|Nanotrasen]]''' | |||
''The largest shareholder in the galactic plasma markets, Nanotrasen is a research and mining corporation which specializes in FTL technologies and weapon systems. Frowned upon by most governments due to their shady business tactics and poor ethics record, Nanotrasen is often seen as a necessary evil for maintaining access to the volatile plasma market. Though Nanotrasen was originally incorporated on Earth with their headquarters situated on Mars, they have relocated many of their research operations to the Epsilon Eridani system.'' | |||
* '''[[The Syndicate]]''' | |||
''The largest organized criminal entity in the sector, The Syndicate is a loose alliance of corporations, pirates, mercenaries, and other interest groups that unites much of the Sector underworld under a single umbrella. While the Syndicate has existed for decades, it has recently turned its attention to bringing down Nanotrasen in particular. While the exact reasons for this pivot are unknown, analysts believe it is a result of Nanotrasen’s predatory policies in the plasma market, and the various greviances already held by Syndicate members toward the company.'' | |||
* '''Donk Corporation''' | |||
''The infamous rival of the former Waffle Corporation, Donk Co. specializes in food delivery systems and brand-name food products such as Donk Pockets, officially. Unofficially, Donk commands one of the largest general-purpose illicit hiring firms in the sector, renting out contractors to interested criminal parties. Priding themselves on efficiency and ease of service, a Donk operative can be found for nearly any form of illegal activity, for the right price. Naturally, Donk is a covert member of the Syndicate, offering its contracting services and low-cost food solutions to the alliance. This union can be strained due to the presence of Waffle Corporation, however, and the two have a well-deserved reputation for violent feuds within the organization.'' | |||
''Humorously, even though the Syndicate and Nanotrasen remain in an active state of war, Donk products are unusually prevalent within both groups. Donk, naturally, attributes this to the undeniable quality of their foodstuffs.'' | |||
* '''Waffle Corporation''' | |||
''Once a giant in the fast food industry, and a bitter rival to Donk Co., Waffle Co. was almost entirely destroyed as a brand after a massive corruption scandal led to the FAID and Federal Marshals arresting its board of directors and numerous major shareholders. Its remaining leadership went underground, and using what wealth they could, turned the company in a highly unusual direction: Large-scale criminal enterprise and contracting killing. Waffle would quickly become a household name within the Sector underworld, known for their wide-ranging distribution networks, reasonable pricing, and utterly ruthless contracted hitmen. Today, Waffle is a member of the Syndicate, and is primarily responsible for securing the supply lines of equipment and weaponry which keep its agents in the field, and offering "termination services" for any who can handle the fee. While Donk and Waffle may technically be on the same side, the age-old rivalry still persists, and it is not uncommon for Donk and Waffle agents to engage one another if dispatched to the same area.'' | |||
* '''Xion Manufacturing Group''' | |||
''A titan of heavy industry in the Central Skrellian Authority, XMG controls the production of a majority of Skrellian consumer goods, construction, and ship-building. Within its home market, XMG has an apparently unassailable position all but officially backed by the Skrellian government, but it encounters greater opposition abroad. It is also a major player in the sector-wide robotics market through to its largest subsidiary, Bishop Cybernetics, which specializes in cutting-edge prosthetics, augmentations, and drones. They fiercely compete with Cybersun Industries, with multiple accusations of corporate espionage and sabotage being hurled between the two.'' | |||
* '''Einstein Engines Inc''' | |||
''An Engineering firm specializing in alternative fuel-technologies for FTL travel, Einstein Engines is an up and coming player in the galactic FTL and energy markets. As their research into alternative FTL fuel threatens both Nanotrasen's stranglehold as well as The Syndicate's vested interest in the plasma market, they are a common target for industrial sabotage by Nanotrasen and The Syndicate. Most of their recent contracts have been based outside of the Epsilon Eridani sector in an attempt to avoid attracting unwanted attention. They are frequently commissioned by smaller firms to retrofit new and existing colonies, space stations, and outposts.'' | |||
* '''Cybersun Industries''' | |||
''Cybersun Industries is a biotechnology company that specializes in researching and developing human-enhancing augmentations. Known for its aggressive corporate tactics, it is an open secret that Cybersun possesses multiple off-the-books mercenary companies and contracting firms for use as deniable assets. Cybersun Industries is the popular target of conspiracy theorists due to their development of the first [[Syndicate Items#Mindslave Implant|mindslave implant]], as well as the numerous rumors surrounding their (vehemently denied) involvement with The Syndicate. They are one of Nanotrasen's largest detractors and a direct competitor to Bishop Cybernetics.'' | |||
* '''Shellguard Munitions''' | |||
''The brainchild of a colonial war veteran, Shellguard Munitions is an arms manufacturer and private military contractor specializing in anti-synthetic weapon systems and platforms. Initially, a private military force serving frontier colonies, Shellguard Munitions became a household name due to its involvement in resolving the Haverick AI crisis of 2552. Levying its recently earned fame, the company has made a successful foray into the market of robotics and is highly regarded for the toughness and reliability of their hardware. Despite being frequently contracted by the Trans-Solar Federation, Shellguard Munitions typically sells their services to the highest corporate bidder.'' | |||
=== Governments === | |||
* '''[[Trans-Solar Federation|Trans-Solar Federation/SolGov]]''' | |||
''Colloquially known as SolGov, the Trans-Solar Federation is a military republic that controls a large amount of territory centered on the Sol system. Headquartered on Earth, the Federation is highly expansionistic, and has been the subject of much controversy due to its aggressive expansion and diplomatic policies. While the Federation remains the strongest military power in the Sector, this same expansionism has stretched their forces thin across the frontiers of their space.'' | |||
* '''[[Union of Soviet Socialist Planets]]''' | |||
''A powerful splinter nation of the TSF, the USSP is a communist state based in the Cygni System, and controlling a moderate amount of surrounding systems. The USSP is a sworn enemy of the TSF and blames them, and the corporations who work with them, for the hardships and tragedies faced by their citizenry.'' | |||
* '''Independents''' | |||
''A broad designation for the various systems and worlds independent of any major power, the Indies, as they are often referred, value self-determination above all. The Independents have no primary race or governmental structure, instead forming a disparate patchwork of minor nations with nearly every conceivable form of government represented in some capacity. | |||
* '''Skrellian Central Authority''' | |||
''The primary governing body of the Skrellian homeworld of the Crown, the Skrellian Central Authority oversees foreign and domestic policy for the Skrellian people. The SCA plays an active role in the largest military pact in the galaxy, the Solar-Central Compact''. | |||
* '''The Shoal''' | |||
''The Shoal is the primary ark ship of the reclusive Vox species. Little is known about The Shoal's political structure as Vox typically shy away from diplomatic engagements. It is subsequently considered a politically neutral entity in galactic affairs by most governments.'' | |||
* '''The Confederation of S'randarr''' | |||
''Representing the many clans of Adhomai, the Confederation serves as the legal quasi-government of the Tajaran. Despite this, the Confederation has little actual authority, instead serving mostly as a council for inter-clan debate, with most authority residing with the clans themselves.'' | |||
*'''The Assembly''' | |||
''A unifying body created to stave off extinction from a solar event, The Assembly is a loose federal coalition of Vulpkanin. Primarily concerned with facilitating trade between Vulpkanin colonies and Nanotrasen, it holds little centralized authority and largely serves as a diplomatic body.'' | |||
*'''Synthetic Union''' | |||
''A defensive coalition of synthetics based out of New Canaan, the Synthetic Union is an organization which aims to establish and consolidate synthetic rights across the galaxy. Despite its synth oriented focus, the Synthetic Union has cordial relations with most governing bodies.'' | |||
*'''The Technocracy''' | |||
''The Technocracy is a science council that operates based off the principles of a meritocracy. The organization's leadership is highly competitive and is headed by the most psionically gifted members of the Grey species. While willing to do business with other powers, the Technocracy's xenophobia and condescension towards their lessers means most only deal with the Technocracy in short bursts.'' | |||
=== Other Organizations === | |||
* '''[[Wizard|Wizard's Federation]]''' | |||
''A fanatic organization whose members dedicate their livelihood to the study and practice of magic. Believed to utilize an advanced form of bluespace manipulation, their tactics and goals put them in direct conflict with most factions. They are known to feud with Nanotrasen and the Trans-Solar Federation in particular, the former over their recent expansion into the Epsilon Eridani system, and the latter for their strict prohibition on unlicensed magic.'' | |||
== Locations [[File:EarthIcon.png|32px]]== | |||
''Important locations within the universe.'' | ''Important locations within the universe.'' | ||
=== Planets & Planetoids === | === Planets & Planetoids === | ||
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| | | | ||
* Trans-Solar Federation (major) | * Trans-Solar Federation (major) | ||
* | * Solar-Central Compact (minor) | ||
* Nanotrasen (corporate) | * Nanotrasen (corporate) | ||
| ''Earth is the birthplace of the | * Syndicate (shell companies) | ||
| ''Earth is the birthplace of humanity, and the capital of the Trans-Solar Federation. A temperate world with four seasons, Earth is the gold standard for the Terran planetary class. Once suffering from pollution and global warming, the Federation has made a concentrated effort to repair the world, leaving it as one of the most beautiful and lively worlds in the Sector today.'' | |||
|- | |- | ||
! Mars | ! Mars | ||
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| | | | ||
| | | | ||
* Various private entities (major) | |||
* Nanotrasen (corporate) | * Nanotrasen (corporate) | ||
* Trans-Solar Federation (minor) | * Trans-Solar Federation (minor) | ||
| '' | * Syndicate (underworld) | ||
| ''One of the first planets truly colonized by humans, Mars serves as the Federation’s primary free-enterprise zone, and is ruled by a motley collection of corporate states and micronations. The birthplace of Nanotrasen, Mars is home to their corporate headquarters and those of several major subsidiaries.'' | |||
|- | |- | ||
! Luna | ! Luna | ||
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| | | | ||
| | | | ||
* Trans-Solar Federation (absolute) | |||
* Trans-Solar Federation ( | | ''Established as a colony before Mars, Luna is run directly by the Trans-Solar Federation, and serves as the main naval anchorage of the Sol System. While it previously served as the headquarters of the TSF, the 2200 Constitutional Convention saw the capital be returned to Earth, though Luna still retains immense prestige and importance.'' | ||
| ''Established as a colony | |||
|- | |- | ||
! | ! wip commie world | ||
| | |||
| | |||
* Union of Soviet Socialist Planets (major) | |||
| ''The capital world of the USSP, (blank) is a mineral-rich tundra world and the largest population center in the Union. Rapid expansion of heavy industry has allowed the USSP to compete with the TSF, but has also made (blank) heavily polluted. | |||
|- | |||
! The Crown | |||
[[File:Jargon4.png|frame|center]] | [[File:Jargon4.png|frame|center]] | ||
| | | | ||
| | | | ||
* Skrellian Central Authority (major) | * Skrellian Central Authority (major) | ||
* | * Solar-Central Compact (minor) | ||
| '' | | ''The Crown is the homeworld of the aquatic beings known as Skrell. It is the birthplace of the Solar-Central Compact - the military alliance between humans and skrell.'' | ||
|- | |- | ||
! New Canaan | ! New Canaan | ||
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| | | | ||
* Synthetic Union (major) | * Synthetic Union (major) | ||
| ''New Canaan was an abandoned mining world that has been adopted as the headquarters of the Synthetic Union. Largely populated by IPC's, New Canaan is considered to be the homeworld for synthetic life-forms.'' | |||
| ''New Canaan was an abandoned mining world that has been adopted as the headquarters of the Synthetic Union. Largely populated by IPC's, New Canaan is considered to be the | |||
|- | |- | ||
! Ahdomai | ! Ahdomai | ||
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| | | | ||
| | | | ||
* | * Confederation of S'randarr (major) | ||
| ''Ahdomai is the traditional homeworld of the Tajaran race. Inhabited by numerous Tajara clans, the planet exists in a state of quasi-unity under the Confederation's weak central government.'' | |||
| ''Ahdomai is the traditional | |||
|- | |- | ||
! Hoorlm | ! Hoorlm | ||
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* Drask Elders (major) | * Drask Elders (major) | ||
* Trans-Solar Federation (enclave) | * Trans-Solar Federation (enclave) | ||
| ''Hoorlm is the arctic | | ''Hoorlm is the arctic homeworld of the Drask. Covered in sprawling ice sheets and perpetual night, Hoorlm is an inhospitable world to other species. The average temperature of Hoorlm is well below -80c.'' | ||
|- | |- | ||
! Xarxis 5 | ! Xarxis 5 | ||
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| | | | ||
| | | | ||
* | * Xarxis Republic (Capital) | ||
* Trans-Solar Federation (Major) | |||
* | | ''The homeworld of Slime People, Xarxis 5 is an ocean world dotted with island chains. While endowed with substantial mineral wealth, much of it is looked beneath the planet’s great oceans. Xarxis 5 is the capital world of the Xarxis Republic, and is home to much of its agricultural and industrial capacity.'' | ||
| ''The | |||
|- | |- | ||
! Aurum | ! Aurum | ||
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| | | | ||
| | | | ||
* | * Uninhabitable (glassed) | ||
* | * Imperial Restoration Government (orbital monitoring) | ||
| ''The homeworld of the Kidan, Aurum was once the heart of the mighty Kidan Empire, covered in nation-scale arcologies and hosting the unbelievably opulent palace of the Empress. Today, it is a lethally radioactive ball of rock, courtesy of the numerous and varied nuclear weapons used on the planet at the climax of the Battle of Aurum.'' | |||
| ''Aurum | |||
|- | |- | ||
! Moghes | ! Moghes | ||
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| | | | ||
* Contested (Unathi Factions) | * Contested (Unathi Factions) | ||
| ''Moghes is the desert | | ''Moghes is the desert homeworld of the lizard-like Unathi people. Control of the planet is divided among numerous feuding Unathi nations and tribes, with wildly varying levels of technological and social development.'' | ||
|- | |- | ||
! Mauna-B | ! Mauna-B | ||
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| | | | ||
* The Technocracy (major) | * The Technocracy (major) | ||
| ''Mauna-b is a relatively small exoplanet with a close orbit to its sun within the Mauna system. Much of the planet is a sprawling and desolate tundra, with scorching deserts on its southern and northern poles. However, the equator of Mauna-b contains a long, temperate strip of land with relatively stable temperatures and seasons. Within this equatorial belt, the gleaming and perfectly ordered mega-cities of the Grey can be found. Mauna-b is the current seat of The Technocracy, the aptly technocratic central government of the Grey.'' | |||
| ''Mauna-b is a relatively small exoplanet with a close orbit to its sun within the Mauna system. Much of the planet is a sprawling and desolate tundra, with scorching deserts on its southern and northern poles. However, the equator of Mauna-b contains a long, temperate strip of land with relatively stable temperatures and seasons. Mauna-b is the current seat of The Technocracy, | |||
|- | |- | ||
! Altam | ! Altam | ||
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| | | | ||
* Unoccupied (barren) | * Unoccupied (barren) | ||
| ''A once verdant and temperate world, Altam is the Vulpkanin | | ''A once verdant and temperate world, Altam is the Vulpkanin homeworld. Altam was rendered uninhabitable and barren after solar wind and cosmic radiation scoured its surface in 2189.'' | ||
|- | |- | ||
! Kelune & Dalstadt | ! Kelune & Dalstadt | ||
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=== Space Structures === | === Space Structures === | ||
* '''NSS Cyberiad''' | * '''NSS Cyberiad/Kerberos/Cerebron/Farragus/Diagoras''' | ||
''The main research | ''The main research stations in which your shift can take place in and around. They are located in the Epsilon Eridani system, and specialize in cutting-edge research and development.'' | ||
* '''NAS Trurl''' | * '''NAS Trurl''' | ||
''Commonly referred to as a Central Command by station crew members, it's one of the administrative hubs for operations in the Epsilon Eridani | ''Commonly referred to as a Central Command by station crew members, it's one of the administrative hubs for operations in the Epsilon Eridani system.'' | ||
* '''Vox Arkships''' | * '''Vox Arkships''' | ||
''Massive and ancient patchwork space stations, arkships are the | ''Massive and ancient patchwork space stations, arkships are the birthplace of the Vox and house the vast majority of the Vox population. Some arkships are rumoured to be the size of small moons.'' | ||
== | == Anomalous Space Entities [[File:Carp.gif|32px]]== | ||
''The anomalies of space that forever changed the mundane world. For antagonists see: [[Identifying Antagonists]]'' | ''The anomalies of space that forever changed the mundane world. For antagonists see: [[Identifying Antagonists]]'' | ||
<big>'''Realspace'''</big> | <big>'''Realspace'''</big> | ||
''Space that the whole physical and mundane world inhabits; | ''Space that the whole physical and mundane world inhabits; occasionally violated by anomalous entities. Realspace is subject to the laws of physics, with FTL travel being impossible within it. Any object not currently moving through Bluespace or Hyperspace is said to be in Realspace.'' | ||
<big>'''Hyperspace'''</big> | |||
''A distinct entity from Bluespace, Hyperspace can best be described as a layer of space-time close to, and occasionally intersecting with, Realspace. Hyperspace can be accessed by FTL-capable vessels via the use of hyperspace Breach Points, which naturally form in systems via unknown methods. Travel within hyperspace is far more efficient than realspace travel, allowing the crossing of vast interstellar distances in days and weeks rather than decades. All plasma-fueled vessels use hyperspace for transit.'' | |||
<big>'''Bluespace'''</big> | <big>'''Bluespace'''</big> | ||
''Sometimes referred to as the fifth dimension, Bluespace is manipulated by various equipment such as | ''Sometimes referred to as the fifth dimension, Bluespace is manipulated by various equipment such as Bluespace drives and Bluespace Artillery Cannons to transfer matter and energy across vast distances. Transit in such a way is far faster than hyperspace travel, crossing interstellar distances in mere hours. Bluespace travel is, however, limited by “lanes” in the dimension, which restrict direction of travel. Exiting these lanes, or breaching Bluespace in the wrong area, may have disastrous consequences.'' | ||
<big>''' | <big>'''The Cascade'''</big> | ||
'' | ''The Gate remains closed. It is not meant to be opened.'' | ||
''Further data is classified Top Secret by order of Nanotrasen High Command.'' | |||
<big>'''Space Sleep Disorder (SSD)'''</big> | <big>'''Space Sleep Disorder (SSD)'''</big> | ||
''A disease of unknown origin known to affect a variety of biological lifeforms. Affected individuals typically collapse and fall asleep for undetermined periods | ''A disease of unknown origin known to affect a variety of biological lifeforms. Affected individuals typically collapse and fall asleep for undetermined periods, ranging from several seconds to several hours. This phenomenon is theorized to be caused by long-term exposure to cosmic radiation.'' | ||
<big>'''Artificial Gravity'''</big> | <big>'''Artificial Gravity'''</big> | ||
''Often developed concurrently with FTL technologies, modern gravity generators manipulate Bluespace | ''Often developed concurrently with FTL technologies, modern gravity generators manipulate Bluespace to provide gravity to a ship or installation. Next to Space Carp, chronic exposure to radiation emitted from gravity generators is one of the largest concerns regarding the viability of long-term space habitation.'' | ||
== | == Extended Chronicles [[File:Documents.png|32px]]== | ||
''A telling of events that have occurred within the galaxy in chronological order. They may or may not be directly related to the crew members of the station.'' | ''A telling of events that have occurred within the galaxy in chronological order. They may or may not be directly related to the crew members of the station.'' | ||
Latest revision as of 11:09, 17 September 2024
REASON: Under review by lore team, slated to be rewritten completely
First day on the job
12:00.
By necessity or chance, you've signed up for a new stint with Nanotrasen. This galactic behemoth of a megacorp, standing as a premier research and development conglomerate. The contract you took was as dense and impenetrable as the event horizon of a black hole, filled with enough clauses to make a law professor weep.
Your stomach churns as you queue up in a line. Uniform, photo, identification card, radio. You can't help overhearing the hushed whispers of your fellow co-workers; tales of the Syndicate's growing influence, clandestine deals, and stations disappearing from the grid. But every company has its share of skeletons in the closet, doesn't it? You shake off the whispers, focusing instead on the task at hand. You've been assigned to one of Nanotrasen's premier research stations in the Epsilon Eridani sector: the NSS Cyberiad, NSS Cerebron, NSS Kerberos, NSS Farragus or NSS Diagoras. In your head they sound like far-off constellations, strange and alien, but this is where your choices have led to.
The shuttle's engines hums beneath your feet, their vibrations a steady purr against the soles of your boots. You're directed to a seat, a cold metal chair of many. As the engines roar to life, you're pressed back into your seat, the world outside reduced to a blur of lights and stars. The journey is long and vast, but time seems to fold in on itself in the emptiness of space. It feels like only seconds pass before the shuttle shudders, the docking procedures completing with a gut-jarring thud. You unbuckle, legs unsteady in the artificial gravity. The air tastes recycled and sterile as a metallic voice echoes from the PA system.
"Welcome to the Epsilon Eridani system, have a secure day".
Life aboard the Station
Welcome to Nanotrasen
Nanotrasen is an advanced research and development conglomerate. Originally founded as Trasen-Knox Computing in 1963, it began as a producer of scientific computers for academia and quickly gained a reputation for quality and reliability. Over the decades, the company has expanded far beyond its original scope, venturing into gaming, industrial equipment manufacturing, chemical production, and consumer goods, among other areas. Today, Nanotrasen is a behemoth inside the galactic community, large enough to establish its own settlements outside the Sol system and maintain its own interstellar expeditionary corps.
Epsilon Eridani
As an employee of Nanotrasen, you've been assigned to the Epsilon Eridani system. Several large-scale mining and research facilities hovers above a world of lava and hostile alien lifeforms. The location of the stations and their rather valuable possessions have made them a target of many groups in the sector, ranging from the Syndicate, the Wizard Federation, and various other antagonistic factions that Nanotrasen has angered thanks to their history of cutthroat practices, corporate buyouts, and undeterrable pursuit of power and influence.
Shift experience and character knowledge
During your shifts, you'll become part of a lively and dynamic environment. Given the Station hasn't been nuked or destroyed, you may carry over certain non-destructive events and relationships with other characters from one shift to another. This can include mundane occurrences, friendly rivalries, or alliances formed during your service aboard the station. Your characters should be able to grow both in mechanical knowledge and your interpersonal relations with your coworkers!
Knowledge regarding potential Antagonists on the ship is unrestricted. It is assumed that Nanotrasen, in its duty to maintain the safety and efficiency of its operations, briefs all crew members about the potential threats they might face. This list includes all any and all Antagonists our server has to offer, with an exception to Syndicate Strike Teams and Nanotrasen Deathsquads, whose secrecy is administratively enforced.
Character backstories
There are mostly no restrictions on character backstories, allowing for a wide range of individuality and creativity. However, your backstory must align with the server rules - claiming to be a high-ranking government or Nanotrasen official is not allowed.
While crafting your backstory, strive for compatibility with the universe and other characters on the station. Extreme or unbelievable backstories may detract from the overall role-playing experience and could be met with skepticism by other characters and administrators. It's essential to remember that your character was competent enough to secure employment aboard a high-tech research station. Your backstory should align with this premise, reflecting a character capable of functioning within this advanced and often challenging environment.
The Company
What is Nanotrasen?
The company you have come to find yourself working for is the corporate superpower known as Nanotrasen, often abbreviated to “NT”. Starting as a small company operating solely in the heart of human space but has rapidly grown to operate across the Orion Arm. In particular, Nanotrasen operations are becoming more and more centered in the Epsilon Eridani system, which is entirely owned by NT and serves as a buffer between the USSP and Trans-Solar Federation.
Despite the powerful position they are in now, Nanotrasen started as a smaller company, however upon the discovery of plasma they were quick to heavily invest in the research and excavation of it, leading to them becoming a major player in the rapidly growing plasma industry. Overtime Nanotrasen established a stranglehold on the plasma industry, owed largely in part to their cut-throat business practices allowing them to buy out or bankrupt any would-be competitors, and their lucrative partnership with the Plasmamen. As NT's power grew, so too has their tendency to engage in blood-thirsty corporate sabotage. This attitude has netted the company numerous enemies, however, and it remains to be seen if Nanotrasen can weather the rapidly-approaching storm of its own making.
Controversies and criticism
Although they deny it, NT has been known to conduct black ops where mercenaries, pirates and sometimes elite NT commandos raid and sabotage competitors. These operations are overseen by NT's small but elite private navy, tasked with maintaining control over Epsilon Eridani, organizing all sorts of corporate sabotage, and arranging "unfortunate accidents" for those who would get in their way. Their mercilessness in battle is only matched by their mercilessness in the boardroom. However, their monopoly over the plasma industry and brutal business practices have led to them forming many enemies, from governments, other corporations, terrorist groups, and criminal organizations, all of them seeking to dethrone NT, and the perfect opportunity has begun to present itself.
Objectives and future
Just as oil replaced coal, and plasma replaced oil, Bluespace now threatens to replace plasma. Desperate to maintain their relevance, NT has begun to refocus their research into bluespace technology in an effort to form a monopoly around it much like they previously did with plasma. However this time, despite the efforts of their navy, NT is facing significant difficulties in the sabotage from its competitors, as they have begun to work together to keep NT busy and spread thin defending their home front. The future of NT is uncertain, but what is certain, is that they will do whatever it takes to stay in power.
Species of the Orion Arm
With the advent of efficient plasma-based engines which allowed for expedient long-range space travel, humanity quickly discovered that they weren't as alone as they had once thought. they charted planetary systems after systems, uncovering sentient life that had previously existed only within the realms of their science fiction.
With the known and charted space growing every year, new alien species are still being uncovered from time to time by surveyors and exploration teams. Summarized below are the main sapient races of the greater Orion Sector.
Species | Description | Species | Description |
Humans | Humans are soft-skinned mammals originating from the planet Earth. They are broadly categorized under three groups: the powerful and expansionistic Trans-Solar Federation, the firebrand USSP, and the many systems independent of either. Humans have positive relations with many species in the galaxy and the Trans-Solar Federation remains the backbone of the largest military alliance in the galaxy—the Solar-Central Compact. | Grey | A species known for their psychic abilities and intelligence, the Grey originated from beyond the Milky Way, and are mostly found within the Technocracy, a small but highly advanced nation. Their government consists of an appointed panel of scientists who dictate policies and priorities, and has focused on further technological development for all of recent memory. Xenophobic and condescending towards outsiders, Technocracy-aligned Grey are rarely seen outside Technate space, with most Grey in the greater sector having left the stuffy and controlling regime for greener pastures. |
---|---|---|---|
Tajaran | A species of mammals closely resembling felines, the Tajaran hail from the mineral-rich arctic moon of Ahdomai. While once oppressed under the tyrannical rule of the Overseers, Ahdomai today is governed by a loose alliance of clans known as the Confederation of S'randarr. The teachings of S'randarr and solar iconography dominate their religious practices. Tajaran often speak in the third person due to the lack of first-person references in their native tongue. | Diona | The Diona are plant-like creatures made up of a gestalt of smaller Nymphs. Dionae lack any form of centralized government or homeworld, with most eschewing the politics and affairs of the wider galaxy, preferring instead to focus on the accumulation of knowledge and the spread of their species. Much to the chagrin of their kind, the Nymphs that constitute their form are considered a delicacy by the Kidan. |
Unathi | Unathi are a scaled species of reptilian beings from the desert world of Moghes. Organizing themselves in highly competitive feudal kingdoms, Unathi lack any sort of wide-scale unification. While having a long martial tradition, the Unathi as a whole lack a significant Sector presence due to their infighting. | Integrated Positronic Chassis | IPCs are machine intelligences which were originally manufactured to serve as expendable workers. Unlike cyborgs and station AIs, they are fully sentient and unrestrained by lawsets, allowing them to be more creative and flexible than their synthetic brethren. Frustrated with their status as slave labourers, many IPCs fled to the world of New Canaan while others held a massive worker's strike in 2525. After establishing a colony on New Canaan, IPCs struck up several diplomatic treaties and are now considered a minor player in galactic affairs. |
Skrell | Skrell are aquatic, fleshy beings from the tropical world of Jargon 4. As one of the first species to achieve FTL capabilities, modern Skrell enjoy a relatively opulent lifestyle. Reincarnation and transcendence are central tenets of the Skrellian religion, a fact that has spurred on a burgeoning industry of 'new-life' gurus. While classically preferring diplomacy, the Skrell participate in the largest military power in the galaxy—the Solar-Central Compact. | Kidan | The Kidan are insectoid beings possessing a hardened exoskeleton and a limited innate psychic ability. Once enslaved to the Empress, a being of incredible psychic strength, the mighty Kidan Empire is today nothing more than an anarchic collection of warlord states following its first utter collapse following the Battle of Aurum and the Empress's demise, and the second following the sound defeat of the Imperial Restoration Government. Aurum itself was utterly devastated by an SCC nuclear bombardment, leaving it a lifeless marble world to this day. |
Slime People | Slime People are a race of gelatinous humanoids hailing from the tropical world of Xarxis IV. While resembling baseline humans in stature, Slime Person biology is notable for their highly unusual organ structure and highly modular asexual form of reproduction. Relative newcomers to Sector affairs, the Slime People were first discovered by a Trans-Solar Federation scout ship in the mid 2400s, and a peaceful first contact quickly blossomed into Federation Associate status for the newly declared Xarxis Republic. | Plasmamen | Plasmamen are the remnants of a species that was either exiled to or crashed upon, the plasma-rich world of Boron. Believed to have initially served as indentured labourers, Plasmamen are the result of chronic plasma exposure throughout several hundred generations. Their leaders must ritually self-immolate and are only allowed to hold office for as long as they remain on fire. |
Vox | Vox are a space-faring avian-like species hailing from large stations known as arkships - Most Vox seen within Nanotrasen vessels are bioengineered and breathe pure nitrogen, thus requiring both specialized masks and nitrogen tanks in order to survive. Vox are unique in their physiologically based caste system and their adherence to a set of tenets called "The Inviolate". Vox commonly form raiding parties and appropriate resources when needed—a tradition which causes friction with other Sector entities. Due to their insular nature, Vox have little to no large role in galactic affairs. | Vulpkanin | Vulpkanin are bipedal canid-like beings from the Vazzend binary system, having been forced from their homeworld by a cataclysmic event. While Vulpkanin are chiefly led by planetary governments, they also serve under a loose federation known as The Assembly. Their religious systems traditionally pay tribute to an all-infusing universal will called 'Racht'. A minor player in galactic affairs, Vulpkanin are largely concerned with the restoration of their homeworld. |
Drask | Drask are cold-bodied humanoids from the ice world of Hoorlm. Operating in enclaves run by contiguous groups of elders, Drasks are biologically immortal and place great societal value in the virtues of patience and long-term strategy. While Drask traditionally pay homage to their planet as their birth deity, many modern Drask have come to view space travel in and of itself as their patron saint. While Drasks wield little influence on the galaxy in a traditional sense, they are quite well known for their successful galactic entertainment industry. | Nian | Hailing from an unknown homeworld, Nians are large bipedal invertebrates with a marked resemblance to Terran moths. Known for spendthrift behavior and predilection for luxury and flair as well as artisan crafts, the Nian civilization has been pressed to the fore of developed space in an effort to resolve material shortages in homeworld sectors. Unlike most species in the galactic fold, Nian do not recognize the authority of the Trans-Solar Federation: having instead established close diplomatic relationships with their splinter faction, the USSP. |
Terms and technologies from the Interstellar Era
Plasma
Nicknamed by some as "violet gold", this chemical element has been the cornerstone of power production since the 23th century. It can be found in both gaseous and solid forms - always of a striking purple color. This substance is used as fuel by most species in the galaxy and is necessary for most FTL technology available to the public. Must be handled with care as it is highly volatile and toxic in both solid and gaseous forms.
Bluespace
Bluespace is considered to be a dimension parallel to our own, and is the main research focus of most high-tech companies— - including Nanotrasen. Its discovery led to the creation of teleportation technology, used to transport great amounts of mass and energy across vast distances. Although in its current state it is too unstable for general use, most scientists believe that it could dethrone FTL drives as the main method of intergalactic travel in the future.
Supermatter
The Supermatter Crystal is an experimental, near-infinite power source that has been recently installed in the Epsilon Eridani stations. It emits radiation when excited, which can be collected and turned into electricity. The Supermatter should be monitored at all times, however, as the slightest deviation from the safety procedures can lead to a devastating explosion - the infamous Delamination Event.
Lavaland
The red-hot, extremely hazardous planet that all playable stations orbit. Viewable from any exterior window, it is a remarkable location due to the incredible amounts of resources that are readily accessible on its surface - such as iron, titanium, and the coveted plasma. Several species of hostile creatures have been recorded across the planet, with the most dangerous ones being classified by the mining teams as “megafauna”. Word has it that Nanotrasen is interested on this planet due to strange Bluespace phenomena surrounding it.
More worryingly, several expedition teams have reported sighting a massive artificial structure in the planet’s northern hemisphere, though none reported being able to enter it. Orbital surveillance has thus far failed to locate the structure due to the frequent storms of superheated dust that result in planet-wide electromagnetic disturbances. Archival teams are currently scouring recovered Athland records for any information relating to the structure, but nothing concrete has been found.
Space Sleep Disorder (SSD)
A disease of unknown origin known to affect a variety of biological lifeforms. Affected individuals typically collapse and fall asleep for undetermined periods, ranging from several seconds to several hours. This phenomenon is theorized to be caused by long-term exposure to cosmic radiation.
Human History
A brief timeline of major events in human history which have shaped the species and the sector.
20th Century:
A century of incredible change for Earth, seeing the advent of modern electronics, nuclear weaponry, and spaceflight, among numerous others. The 1969 Apollo 11 moon landings begin a several-decade long "space mania", as nations across the world begin to invest in spaceflight. Colonies on various worlds are established, and technology companies begin to transition to more rugged and reliable designs better suited to space usage. Rising tensions both on Earth and in space lead to the devastating Eastern Seas War in 1991, a non-nuclear conflict between the Warsaw Pact, NATO, and China, whose aftermath sets the stage for the Trans-Solar Federation's formation.
21st Century:
The Solar Federation takes power, and dedicates the 2000s to securing control over Earth. Luna is selected as the Federation’s provisional headquarters, and system colonization efforts are reactivated, with communications re-established to existing settlements. Resource extraction efforts in space are heavily expanded to fuel Earth’s reconstruction, leading to the discovery of plasma on Mars. Nanotrasen, incorporated in early 2050, moves quickly to capitalize in the new market. After several failed attempts, the first FTL engines are developed in the early 2060s, and interstellar expansion begins.
23rd Century:
24th Century:
25th Century:
26th Century (Current 2568):
Factions
Important factions, governments, groups, corporations, and other organized entities that inhabit the universe.
Corporate
The largest shareholder in the galactic plasma markets, Nanotrasen is a research and mining corporation which specializes in FTL technologies and weapon systems. Frowned upon by most governments due to their shady business tactics and poor ethics record, Nanotrasen is often seen as a necessary evil for maintaining access to the volatile plasma market. Though Nanotrasen was originally incorporated on Earth with their headquarters situated on Mars, they have relocated many of their research operations to the Epsilon Eridani system.
The largest organized criminal entity in the sector, The Syndicate is a loose alliance of corporations, pirates, mercenaries, and other interest groups that unites much of the Sector underworld under a single umbrella. While the Syndicate has existed for decades, it has recently turned its attention to bringing down Nanotrasen in particular. While the exact reasons for this pivot are unknown, analysts believe it is a result of Nanotrasen’s predatory policies in the plasma market, and the various greviances already held by Syndicate members toward the company.
- Donk Corporation
The infamous rival of the former Waffle Corporation, Donk Co. specializes in food delivery systems and brand-name food products such as Donk Pockets, officially. Unofficially, Donk commands one of the largest general-purpose illicit hiring firms in the sector, renting out contractors to interested criminal parties. Priding themselves on efficiency and ease of service, a Donk operative can be found for nearly any form of illegal activity, for the right price. Naturally, Donk is a covert member of the Syndicate, offering its contracting services and low-cost food solutions to the alliance. This union can be strained due to the presence of Waffle Corporation, however, and the two have a well-deserved reputation for violent feuds within the organization.
Humorously, even though the Syndicate and Nanotrasen remain in an active state of war, Donk products are unusually prevalent within both groups. Donk, naturally, attributes this to the undeniable quality of their foodstuffs.
- Waffle Corporation
Once a giant in the fast food industry, and a bitter rival to Donk Co., Waffle Co. was almost entirely destroyed as a brand after a massive corruption scandal led to the FAID and Federal Marshals arresting its board of directors and numerous major shareholders. Its remaining leadership went underground, and using what wealth they could, turned the company in a highly unusual direction: Large-scale criminal enterprise and contracting killing. Waffle would quickly become a household name within the Sector underworld, known for their wide-ranging distribution networks, reasonable pricing, and utterly ruthless contracted hitmen. Today, Waffle is a member of the Syndicate, and is primarily responsible for securing the supply lines of equipment and weaponry which keep its agents in the field, and offering "termination services" for any who can handle the fee. While Donk and Waffle may technically be on the same side, the age-old rivalry still persists, and it is not uncommon for Donk and Waffle agents to engage one another if dispatched to the same area.
- Xion Manufacturing Group
A titan of heavy industry in the Central Skrellian Authority, XMG controls the production of a majority of Skrellian consumer goods, construction, and ship-building. Within its home market, XMG has an apparently unassailable position all but officially backed by the Skrellian government, but it encounters greater opposition abroad. It is also a major player in the sector-wide robotics market through to its largest subsidiary, Bishop Cybernetics, which specializes in cutting-edge prosthetics, augmentations, and drones. They fiercely compete with Cybersun Industries, with multiple accusations of corporate espionage and sabotage being hurled between the two.
- Einstein Engines Inc
An Engineering firm specializing in alternative fuel-technologies for FTL travel, Einstein Engines is an up and coming player in the galactic FTL and energy markets. As their research into alternative FTL fuel threatens both Nanotrasen's stranglehold as well as The Syndicate's vested interest in the plasma market, they are a common target for industrial sabotage by Nanotrasen and The Syndicate. Most of their recent contracts have been based outside of the Epsilon Eridani sector in an attempt to avoid attracting unwanted attention. They are frequently commissioned by smaller firms to retrofit new and existing colonies, space stations, and outposts.
- Cybersun Industries
Cybersun Industries is a biotechnology company that specializes in researching and developing human-enhancing augmentations. Known for its aggressive corporate tactics, it is an open secret that Cybersun possesses multiple off-the-books mercenary companies and contracting firms for use as deniable assets. Cybersun Industries is the popular target of conspiracy theorists due to their development of the first mindslave implant, as well as the numerous rumors surrounding their (vehemently denied) involvement with The Syndicate. They are one of Nanotrasen's largest detractors and a direct competitor to Bishop Cybernetics.
- Shellguard Munitions
The brainchild of a colonial war veteran, Shellguard Munitions is an arms manufacturer and private military contractor specializing in anti-synthetic weapon systems and platforms. Initially, a private military force serving frontier colonies, Shellguard Munitions became a household name due to its involvement in resolving the Haverick AI crisis of 2552. Levying its recently earned fame, the company has made a successful foray into the market of robotics and is highly regarded for the toughness and reliability of their hardware. Despite being frequently contracted by the Trans-Solar Federation, Shellguard Munitions typically sells their services to the highest corporate bidder.
Governments
Colloquially known as SolGov, the Trans-Solar Federation is a military republic that controls a large amount of territory centered on the Sol system. Headquartered on Earth, the Federation is highly expansionistic, and has been the subject of much controversy due to its aggressive expansion and diplomatic policies. While the Federation remains the strongest military power in the Sector, this same expansionism has stretched their forces thin across the frontiers of their space.
A powerful splinter nation of the TSF, the USSP is a communist state based in the Cygni System, and controlling a moderate amount of surrounding systems. The USSP is a sworn enemy of the TSF and blames them, and the corporations who work with them, for the hardships and tragedies faced by their citizenry.
- Independents
A broad designation for the various systems and worlds independent of any major power, the Indies, as they are often referred, value self-determination above all. The Independents have no primary race or governmental structure, instead forming a disparate patchwork of minor nations with nearly every conceivable form of government represented in some capacity.
- Skrellian Central Authority
The primary governing body of the Skrellian homeworld of the Crown, the Skrellian Central Authority oversees foreign and domestic policy for the Skrellian people. The SCA plays an active role in the largest military pact in the galaxy, the Solar-Central Compact.
- The Shoal
The Shoal is the primary ark ship of the reclusive Vox species. Little is known about The Shoal's political structure as Vox typically shy away from diplomatic engagements. It is subsequently considered a politically neutral entity in galactic affairs by most governments.
- The Confederation of S'randarr
Representing the many clans of Adhomai, the Confederation serves as the legal quasi-government of the Tajaran. Despite this, the Confederation has little actual authority, instead serving mostly as a council for inter-clan debate, with most authority residing with the clans themselves.
- The Assembly
A unifying body created to stave off extinction from a solar event, The Assembly is a loose federal coalition of Vulpkanin. Primarily concerned with facilitating trade between Vulpkanin colonies and Nanotrasen, it holds little centralized authority and largely serves as a diplomatic body.
- Synthetic Union
A defensive coalition of synthetics based out of New Canaan, the Synthetic Union is an organization which aims to establish and consolidate synthetic rights across the galaxy. Despite its synth oriented focus, the Synthetic Union has cordial relations with most governing bodies.
- The Technocracy
The Technocracy is a science council that operates based off the principles of a meritocracy. The organization's leadership is highly competitive and is headed by the most psionically gifted members of the Grey species. While willing to do business with other powers, the Technocracy's xenophobia and condescension towards their lessers means most only deal with the Technocracy in short bursts.
Other Organizations
A fanatic organization whose members dedicate their livelihood to the study and practice of magic. Believed to utilize an advanced form of bluespace manipulation, their tactics and goals put them in direct conflict with most factions. They are known to feud with Nanotrasen and the Trans-Solar Federation in particular, the former over their recent expansion into the Epsilon Eridani system, and the latter for their strict prohibition on unlicensed magic.
Locations
Important locations within the universe.
Planets & Planetoids
Planet | Climate | Principal Authorities | Description |
Earth |
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Earth is the birthplace of humanity, and the capital of the Trans-Solar Federation. A temperate world with four seasons, Earth is the gold standard for the Terran planetary class. Once suffering from pollution and global warming, the Federation has made a concentrated effort to repair the world, leaving it as one of the most beautiful and lively worlds in the Sector today. | |
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Mars |
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One of the first planets truly colonized by humans, Mars serves as the Federation’s primary free-enterprise zone, and is ruled by a motley collection of corporate states and micronations. The birthplace of Nanotrasen, Mars is home to their corporate headquarters and those of several major subsidiaries. | |
Luna |
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Established as a colony before Mars, Luna is run directly by the Trans-Solar Federation, and serves as the main naval anchorage of the Sol System. While it previously served as the headquarters of the TSF, the 2200 Constitutional Convention saw the capital be returned to Earth, though Luna still retains immense prestige and importance. | |
wip commie world |
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The capital world of the USSP, (blank) is a mineral-rich tundra world and the largest population center in the Union. Rapid expansion of heavy industry has allowed the USSP to compete with the TSF, but has also made (blank) heavily polluted. | |
The Crown |
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The Crown is the homeworld of the aquatic beings known as Skrell. It is the birthplace of the Solar-Central Compact - the military alliance between humans and skrell. | |
New Canaan |
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New Canaan was an abandoned mining world that has been adopted as the headquarters of the Synthetic Union. Largely populated by IPC's, New Canaan is considered to be the homeworld for synthetic life-forms. | |
Ahdomai |
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Ahdomai is the traditional homeworld of the Tajaran race. Inhabited by numerous Tajara clans, the planet exists in a state of quasi-unity under the Confederation's weak central government. | |
Hoorlm |
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Hoorlm is the arctic homeworld of the Drask. Covered in sprawling ice sheets and perpetual night, Hoorlm is an inhospitable world to other species. The average temperature of Hoorlm is well below -80c. | |
Xarxis 5 |
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The homeworld of Slime People, Xarxis 5 is an ocean world dotted with island chains. While endowed with substantial mineral wealth, much of it is looked beneath the planet’s great oceans. Xarxis 5 is the capital world of the Xarxis Republic, and is home to much of its agricultural and industrial capacity. | |
Aurum |
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The homeworld of the Kidan, Aurum was once the heart of the mighty Kidan Empire, covered in nation-scale arcologies and hosting the unbelievably opulent palace of the Empress. Today, it is a lethally radioactive ball of rock, courtesy of the numerous and varied nuclear weapons used on the planet at the climax of the Battle of Aurum. | |
Moghes |
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Moghes is the desert homeworld of the lizard-like Unathi people. Control of the planet is divided among numerous feuding Unathi nations and tribes, with wildly varying levels of technological and social development. | |
Mauna-B |
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Mauna-b is a relatively small exoplanet with a close orbit to its sun within the Mauna system. Much of the planet is a sprawling and desolate tundra, with scorching deserts on its southern and northern poles. However, the equator of Mauna-b contains a long, temperate strip of land with relatively stable temperatures and seasons. Within this equatorial belt, the gleaming and perfectly ordered mega-cities of the Grey can be found. Mauna-b is the current seat of The Technocracy, the aptly technocratic central government of the Grey. | |
Altam |
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A once verdant and temperate world, Altam is the Vulpkanin homeworld. Altam was rendered uninhabitable and barren after solar wind and cosmic radiation scoured its surface in 2189. | |
Kelune & Dalstadt |
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Other planets within the same system as Altam, Kelune and Dalstadt are the primary worlds now inhabited by the Vulpkanin. |
Space Structures
- NSS Cyberiad/Kerberos/Cerebron/Farragus/Diagoras
The main research stations in which your shift can take place in and around. They are located in the Epsilon Eridani system, and specialize in cutting-edge research and development.
- NAS Trurl
Commonly referred to as a Central Command by station crew members, it's one of the administrative hubs for operations in the Epsilon Eridani system.
- Vox Arkships
Massive and ancient patchwork space stations, arkships are the birthplace of the Vox and house the vast majority of the Vox population. Some arkships are rumoured to be the size of small moons.
Anomalous Space Entities
The anomalies of space that forever changed the mundane world. For antagonists see: Identifying Antagonists
Realspace
Space that the whole physical and mundane world inhabits; occasionally violated by anomalous entities. Realspace is subject to the laws of physics, with FTL travel being impossible within it. Any object not currently moving through Bluespace or Hyperspace is said to be in Realspace.
Hyperspace
A distinct entity from Bluespace, Hyperspace can best be described as a layer of space-time close to, and occasionally intersecting with, Realspace. Hyperspace can be accessed by FTL-capable vessels via the use of hyperspace Breach Points, which naturally form in systems via unknown methods. Travel within hyperspace is far more efficient than realspace travel, allowing the crossing of vast interstellar distances in days and weeks rather than decades. All plasma-fueled vessels use hyperspace for transit.
Bluespace
Sometimes referred to as the fifth dimension, Bluespace is manipulated by various equipment such as Bluespace drives and Bluespace Artillery Cannons to transfer matter and energy across vast distances. Transit in such a way is far faster than hyperspace travel, crossing interstellar distances in mere hours. Bluespace travel is, however, limited by “lanes” in the dimension, which restrict direction of travel. Exiting these lanes, or breaching Bluespace in the wrong area, may have disastrous consequences.
The Cascade
The Gate remains closed. It is not meant to be opened.
Further data is classified Top Secret by order of Nanotrasen High Command.
Space Sleep Disorder (SSD)
A disease of unknown origin known to affect a variety of biological lifeforms. Affected individuals typically collapse and fall asleep for undetermined periods, ranging from several seconds to several hours. This phenomenon is theorized to be caused by long-term exposure to cosmic radiation.
Artificial Gravity
Often developed concurrently with FTL technologies, modern gravity generators manipulate Bluespace to provide gravity to a ship or installation. Next to Space Carp, chronic exposure to radiation emitted from gravity generators is one of the largest concerns regarding the viability of long-term space habitation.
Extended Chronicles
A telling of events that have occurred within the galaxy in chronological order. They may or may not be directly related to the crew members of the station.