Name:
Gender:
Age:
Appearance: A picture is fine, so is a description.
Personality: Some detail, please. Give us a look at their head.
Backstory: At least a paragraph or two, please. The more detail the better.
Skills and Flaws: What are they good at and what aren't they. Everyone has a mix of both, what's theirs?
Equipment: Anything particularly noteworthy that they have brought with them on the trip.

And an Orbital sheet;

Model Number: What does its manufacturer call it?
Role: What is it meant to do?
Appearance: Pictures or descriptions are both acceptable.
Systems: Does it have any special systems? Does it transform? Does it combine? Does it have special sensors?
Weapons: What has it got to shoot, stab, or otherwise hit the enemy with? Shields go here, too.
Manufacturing History: Who built it? When did they built it? Why did they built it?
Weaknesses: What are its drawbacks? The more stronger and more specialized the Orbital, the more I'm going to want to see some thought here.

Name: Konstantin Stojanović

Gender: Male

Age: 26

Appearance: A man of resilient, lean build, sharp jaw, and steel-clad expression. Carries himself with a pilot's surety and confidence, bolstered by the slightest air of recessed nobility— perhaps suggesting that he was not always so immersed within this harsh, spartan military life. His hair is a sandy blonde, and normally cropped quite close in a classical crew cut, but has been grown out during the lax span of the Pandora's interstellar voyage.

Personality: Keeps a rather cool-headed and reserved exterior, but close beneath lies a warm, friendly, even affable man. Long released from the trials that plagued his youth, Konstantin walks with the weight of wondering when his next meal will be completely removed from his shoulders, leaving only the well-earned faith in his skill that he honed over years of active duty. Happiest behind the cockpit, he nonetheless has been making concerted efforts to continue rehabilitating himself to life beyond it, having cultivated a few hobbies as well as a dark, dry sense of humor that would make Ganymede’s soil proud. Seems to go alight at the prospect of a scrap, as any red-blooded soldier should. His skills are his very life. Putting them to the test, in his eyes, is a thrill none other could match.

Backstory: A son of a well-to-do family hailing from Belgrade, Konstantin's early life was one that enjoyed the Earth's comfort and stability. Educated well, with little want for simple luxuries or privileges borne of money, it was the picturesque standard of the homeworld's upper class upbringing. Club sports, chess lessons, regular vacations to scenic vistas, all were simple facts of life to the Stojanovic children. A charmed childhood.

A routine stop at a spaceport tossed it all out the window. Not one moment of this lax upbringing could prepare young Konstantin, scarcely eleven at the time, for his abduction by a rather notorious band of interplanetary corsairs after being separated from his family. The pirates' leader, at the time still posing as the overseer of a backwater colony upon Ganymede, saw only a young man, the name "Stojanovic" scarcely pronounceable, let alone noteworthy— If he hadn't heard of it, then surely no ransom would be worth the attention. Konstantin, despite his protests, was thrown to the mines as a result. An able body was an able body, and this was one of many he needed not pay anything resembling a wage to. For four years, this would be Stojanovic’s life— endless toiling in the thick, hot, dusty air, unable to desert or even rest for fear of starvation, torture, or worse. He had worn to nothing beyond his name, bereft of his status, of his hope, of all semblance of his former life and self. Had he not so covetously clung to this final facet of his identity, he likely would have broken forever.

To compound his trials, at 15 he was transferred out of the mine and onto the battlefield, for reasons still unknown to him. To combat an incursion by rival pirates, the Overseer had need of manned atmospheric craft— in so many words, Konstantin was shoved into the cockpit of a centuries-old Sukhoi, guns at his back and a suicidal task ahead. He had graduated from "laborer" to "prisoner"; now spending his time on the ground in a cell rather than absolute squalor. It was a hell of a tradeoff— get more food for the small price of nigh-impossible missions. The more damage you did, the more your plate was covered. A full meal was reserved for those who excelled, the right of only the day's ace.

Knowing that this bastardization of valor was now his only path to survival, he quickly learned to dive into the fireworks. There was no room for cowardice, for timidity, for ineptitude. His wings would never soar the way they needed to with such weights upon him. No odds were too long, no order worth starving for.

5 years passed, the skirmishes growing into a war that could no longer escape the notice of the United Nations. Peacekeeping forces initially descended planetside to assist in dealing with the more brazen piracy opposite Konstantin's guns, but one fateful transmission captured their full attention. A simple act of switching radio frequencies by one of the only pilots who had lived behind the controls long enough to intimately understand their plane, and the words, "Investigate the mines. All of them. The colony's numbers aren't as clean as you think."

It took one tumultuous month for the inescapable hammer of justice to fall upon the entire operation. Two to evacuate and begin to rehabilitate every gaunt figure that crawled out of the shadows, lungs heavy with dust. Three for the United Nations Armed Forces to receive a new pilot candidate. He had dodged death for five years in the thin skies of a Jovian moon— their training could never hope to break him.

It would only make him better.

He acclimated quite readily to proper logistics, training, and chains of command, graduating from aircraft to Orbitals at the night-insistent urging of his instructors. Within months, he was back on the battlefield, now carving piracy out of the stars for a just cause, as opposed to a simple means of survival. His performance wasn’t always flawless, as the crimson arm on the Bedwyr would attest, but his ability was nonetheless undeniable. He was definitely where he belonged.

Skills and Flaws: Experienced pilot, comfortable in the cockpit of both aircraft and orbitals. Naturally, this includes good reaction times, sense of three-dimensional space, and a learned tolerance for G-Forces. Owing to his rather unique experience with the former, his aim with dumbfire weapons such as vulcans is, plainly put, remarkable. Ruthless yet obedient, he keeps enough of a leash on his innate bloodlust to follow all but the most anathematic orders (to date, none in his proper military career). That said, if there is leeway to get into a fight, chances are high that he will happily pursue engagement, ready to prove his ability. It is notable that he seems to more than simply pride himself on his combative skill— it is a cornerstone of his identity, "the wings that set him free" in his own words. He doesn't take well psychologically to being grounded for an extended period. One might theorize this as the primary reason he has not reunited with his erstwhile family beyond letter correspondence. Beyond the cockpit, he is a self-proclaimed connoisseur of plum brandy, keeps an obsessively clean space, and treats life with a dry, blackened humor.

Equipment: Standard-issue, pressurized flight suit, albeit with a modified helmet system to accompany experimental vision tracking program. 9mm sidearm. Dress uniform. Nothing at all related to brewery or the female form, sir.

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Model Number: General Resources OF-02D, Unofficially designated "Bedwyr"

Role: Point Defense / Area Denial Artillery

Appearance: 20m tall, the Bedwyr owns the humble distinction of having perhaps the most recognizable silhouette of any standard-sized Orbital, owing naturally to its quartet of autocannons and variable-geometry wings. Often thought to have an appearance reminiscent of the knights of old, its alloy plates are all distinctly curved or angled, an attempt to minimize both direct penetration and atmospheric drag. This particular craft is painted with a red left arm, a bout of symbolism having overtaken both pilot and maintenance crew.

Systems: Merlon Target Acquisition Suite: Boastfully marketed as "The logical conclusion of AESA and IFF", the Bedwyr's onboard platform of phased-array sensors and identification software allow it a 360 degree picture of the battlefield with remarkable fidelity, as well as a streamlined data-uplink system for transmission of gathered information. This is most often used in conjunction with, or as a proxy version of, a dedicated AWACS system. This particular unit contains an experimental eyeball-tracking program, intended for use in real-time combat against highly agile targets. General Resources believes very strongly in the value of field-testing.

Variable Geometry Wings: For use in both atmospheric and vacuum combat maneuvering, these wings adjust position to increase in-flight stability with additional lift, or as a platform for retros in space. Both offer marginal improvements in small-scale agility and course adjustment.

Weapons: 4x General Resources E-30: A quartet of 80mm autocannons integral to the Bedwyr's construction, a pair each mounted on the Orbital's shoulders and underslung through the "armpits". A mainstay of the unit's firing platform, the modular receiver and barrel design is both light on parts and very receptive to customization, allowing for specialization in ammunition type changing from mission to mission. Linked to the fly-by-wire systems and onboard IFF designators, the E-30s have a functional aim assist, allowing for use in a suppressive or additional CIWS role while the pilot can focus on manually-operated weapons systems.

2x Kaida Corporations Super-22-G: Kaida Corporations, while known primarily for their advancements in the field of A.I. and drone units, have carved out a small niche of making what most Orbital Pilots refer to as "very fun ideas". Chief amongst them is the Super-22-G, an Orbital-class drum-magazine 105mm smoothbore "Canister Rifle". In sum, this weapon is not dissimilar to the venerable shotguns of infantry combat, in that its Gauss Barrel propels a scaled-up cartridge round containing "buckshot". Where the idea gets "fun", however, is that each pellet of the aforementioned "buckshot" is equivalent to a 40mm grenade. Very useful for throwing out a wall of firepower at an enemy Orbital, chewing a skyscraper in half, or putting on an impromptu fireworks show. Can work with most NATO-standard 105mm Howitzer rounds, but why would you ever pick something so boring?

General Resources TLS-88: Tactical Laser Sword. A model that was designed in-line with the "energy efficiency" philosophy, it unfortunately has proven to suffer from a (rather obvious, in retrospect) reduction in cutting power compared to older beam saber units, as well as most of its contemporaries. Such is the curse of being mostly an afterthought in the design process. Theoretically can be brought to standard— many pilots opt to simply pump in more juice and redline their blades in the thick of combat, but such practices drastically decrease the weapon's service life.

Manufacturing History: First introduced ten years ago, after a 5-year testing period. With a growing demand by United Nations constituents for a new Gunner-class orbital platform in recent years, the industry giant General Resources (formerly Germany-based Grunder Heavy Industries) sought to fill the void left by the last heavies to retire with a next-generation model, competitive with many of their peers' Space Dominance Units in performance, if filling a differing niche in armament.

Looking to the ongoing Usean Drone Conflict taking place on Mars, the market seemed wide open for a suit excelling both in maneuverability and (given the inhuman ability of most things pilots were trying to shoot) target saturation. The result was the OF-02 platform, performing admirably enough in its role that it was referred to as "a flying turret". The more conventional nature of the autocannons compared to the contemporary rail-weapons meant the Orbital sported a notable advantage in energy efficiency, even amongst Oberth Reactors. This allowed General Resources and Pilots alike to direct that spare power elsewhere.

The release of the D-Variant came roughly twenty months prior to the launch of Pandora, the Merlon Targeting system being now all but inseparable from the mech's identity, as well as sporting weight reductions and ridding itself of a jamming issue with the shoulder-mounts' receivers upon loading with alternative ammunition.

Weaknesses: With such a spirited focus on target field saturation, the mech is naturally very ammunition-dependent, with an additional caveat of not being particularly suited to punching through harder defenses, nor extremely close-quarters combat. A danger-close fire mission is still a risky prospect, even in an Orbital, and it currently lacks the caliber to meaningfully damage anything its many small explosive shells cannot bust open.

Name: Holden "Castle" Cross
Gender: Male
Age: 37, chronologically older.
Appearance: Standing at a flat six-feet tall, Holden is a toned, fit man with bluish-grey eyes and a serious expression. His neat black hair, now graying with age even in spite of the miracles of modern science, give off the impression of a man who's seen a lot of things in his life. Holden trims his facial hair every now and then to ensure it doesn't grow out of control but doesn't care enough to shave it off completely. The man walks with a disciplined and orderly bearing, in spite of his battle-scarred legs. In particular, both of his lower legs have been replaced with bionic prosthetics better suited for piloting.


Personality: Dedicated, dutiful, and disciplined, Holden is a man who has spent most of his time in space, whether that's in a space station, onboard a ship, or inside the cockpit of a Heavy or an Orbital. While the man can kick back and appreciate some well-spent shore leave over at the local pub, he's only truly comfortable when he feels in control of a situation, and that just happens to be when he's sitting at the controls of said vehicles. Holden feels especially strange when he has to go planetside, and that typically becomes an endeavor in its own right. Still, he's a simple man of sound judgement who prefers it when things are clear-cut and straightforward, though he knows that most of the time, things will rarely be so easy.

Paradoxically, while not particularly prone to brooding, Holden finds some solace in the belief of a higher power and sets time aside to center himself and his beliefs when alone. His honesty is brutal; he doesn't see himself as a good man, and his self-loyalty trumps all of his actions. However, he is known to assist others out of his own inconvenience simply because "he wants to".

Backstory: Holden was voidborn, having been delivered in Kronos Megaport, which was held in high-orbit over Titan, the moon of Saturn. Kronos Megaport was one of the system's biggest suppliers of fuel and relied on harvesting and refining local gas from both Saturn and the surface of Titan itself. This process transformed these volatile gases into usable fuel for interstellar travel. The colony was even sustainable, using machinery to drill down into Titan's crust and pump out precious water for both human consumption and use in hydroponics.

Suffice it to say, Kronos Megaport was a burgeoning colony with plenty of potential to grow. Holden's father was a chaplain of the Catholic faith, while his mother was an engineer, working the pipes and extractors of the Megaport. They lived simply and did not want for many things in life. However, life did not remain peaceful for long, as while prosperity grows, so too does opportunity- legal or otherwise. The occasional trade convoy carrying imports or exports would disappear, their precious cargo forcibly repossessed by pirates. After all, on the frontier of the solar system, good security is hard to find past the Belt.

The lack of stability in the system prompted an increase in recruitment for members of the local militia and military force. In spite of his parent's protests, the man decided to join the latter, in an attempt to contribute something meaningful to the colony. It was with the local Saturn Defense Force that he gained his first true lessons in discipline and piloting. Holden was by-the-book and on the right side of the law, and he intended to keep it that way.

As time went on and security increased, external threats such as piracy had mostly been relegated to the dark side of the Saturn, if at all. However, internal threats began to increase as the discontent on trade tariffs began to pile up. Holden continued his work as a military officer, but as tensions came to a head, several extremist groups began to form, holding Saturn's government responsible for these issues. A year later, the Saturn Insurrections began. These terrorist groups quickly began to cripple the infrastructure of Kronos Megaport, likely in pursuit of their own agenda rather than any attempt at reform.

During one of these attempts at sabotage, Holden's parents were buried under several tons of steel; marked off as unfortunate casualties of one such bombing.

Driven by grief and rage, the man devoted himself wholly to bring these killers to justice. As it is the nature of these groups, it was mostly a waiting game to see when they would show themselves, before reacting to them accordingly. After a display of belligerent behavior from him, Holden was assigned to guard a remote munitions depot as punishment. The posting was boring and uneventful for the most part, but one day, the place came under a surprise attack from both pirates and terrorists, who had apparently joined forces to get their hands on the weapons and munitions within. If they had succeeded, it's likely they would have had enough armaments to become an even greater threat.

They did not count on the guards who were on duty that day.

Holden activated the aging Ajax that was in the storage bay and turned its weapons on the oncoming enemies. Having received ample training over the years as a pilot, he felt that this was what he was meant to do. He fought and fought, holding off the enemy advance while awaiting reinforcements. When his Orbital was crippled and left immobile, he turned it from a vehicle into a bunker, fighting on in spite of life-threatening injuries. This singular act of heroism bought the defenders enough time for reinforcements to arrive-- and is how Lance Corporal Holden Cross earned the moniker of "Castle".

Fast-forward several decades, and you'll find that the former war hero and military-man has become a shadow of his former self. Years of fighting pointless battles and fighting for a cause he once thought right had left him jaded. Holden "Castle" Cross had retired early at the military rank of Captain. Saturn was his home, but things weren't as one-dimensional as he had once thought. He missed the days where his cause was simple and clear, and the lines weren't as blurred.

One day, while living off of his pension, Holden received word that the Pandora was on a recruitment drive, searching for the best pilots in the system. His name was at the top of Saturn's recommendations. Although initially hesitant at first, the man found new resolve in such a noble endeavor. Saturn was his home, and it always will be, in spite of all its flaws.

...but perhaps with his help, he can make Proxima Centauri home for someone else.

Skills and Flaws:

• Combat Training: Holden is a trained soldier and has seen combat experience both on the ground and in an Orbital. He's a good shot with a rifle and pistol and can hold his own in close-quarters combat.
• Orbital Piloting Training: Holden is also an excellent pilot, but while he can pilot most Orbitals, he's best suited to piloting the Ajax. In addition, years of working with the Orbital's Integrated Targeting Unit has sharpened his mathematics skill, which he readily applies when making minute adjustments to the ballistics systems.
• Officer Training: Holden has spent several years in Saturn's Officer Training School and has years of experience as a captain. If necessary, he can be trusted to effectively lead a squad.
• Engineering Basics: While far from an expert, Holden has learned enough from his mother on how machines work. He can, at the very least, maintain his Orbital and other pieces of equipment. If pressed, he can do 'patch jobs' with the proper tools on hand, though this is a band-aid solution at best.
• Enduring: Holden's mental fortitude is outstanding, and he can tap into his willpower to temporarily ignore wounds or perform dangerous acts without fear.
• Substance Dependency: In the years following the death of his family, Holden began to abuse cigarettes and liquor- both luxury commodities this far into the solar system- in an attempt to cope. He's gotten over these addictions and now takes them responsibly, if at all, but at the cost of his physical and mental health. Particularly stressful or emotional episodes may trigger a relapse, however temporary.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Decades of military life have not been kind to Holden. To keep himself from breaking down completely, he has compartmentalized certain memories and past actions. On occasion, the man can be particularly cold, insensitive, and lacking in empathy.
• Deathwish: Some part of Holden, however small, believes that he can find redemption through death or sacrifice. Although not suicidal, the man would not hesitate to trade his life for the life of others, or for the sake of the mission- even if it would be wiser not to.

Equipment:

• Flight Suit
• Dress Uniform
• Colonial Arms 50. Revolver
• Combat Knife
• Toolkit (For maintaining prosthetics and firearms)
• Holy Bible (King James Version)
• Military Paraphernalia (Medals, insignia, and photos accumulated over years of service in the Saturn Defense Force)

Model Number: RGM-96X Ajax

Role: Heavy Ordnance / Medium-Long Range Fire Support Unit

Appearance: Standing at a sizable 23 meters, the Ajax is larger than most other Orbitals to make room for additional ammunition and ordnance bays. A relic of an older age, there was little attempt to streamline the armor plating- giving off a brutalist vibe. Deep navy blues and dark grays dominate the Orbital's color palette. It is a tool of war and doesn't pretend to be anything other; the Ajax cuts a no-nonsense, imposing figure.


Systems:

• Diomedes Integrated Targeting Unit: A conservative combat OS that tracks ballistics, optimizes ammo usage, and corrects for target velocity. This system makes micro-corrections to the pilot's aim while advising the pilot of the most effective position to maximize fields of fire. Links directly to the Orbital's weapons systems, and can connect to the sensors of other allies to extend the effective range of artillery weapons.
• Talaria Jump Jets: Although now outdated by contemporary military standards, these thrusters located on the backpack, forearms, and calves of the Orbital can be used in short bursts to allow for rapid vertical movement on the battlefield. It can also be useful in zero-G, acting as thrusters and afterburners to assist with maneuverability during space battles. Alternatively, the jump jets can be used offensively to put some devastating rocket-powered force into close-combat maneuvers.
• Adamantine Armor Plating: A second layer of alloyed ceramic armor plating layered on top of the first, intended to protect the Ajax from enemy fire. This second layer helps protect against kinetic and high-explosive damage but is less effective against energy weapons. In addition, the additional weight created by the armor is widely considered as cumbersome, which makes the relatively slow movement of the Ajax even slower. If necessary, the added armor can be purged instantly using explosive bolts to return to normal speed.

Weapons:

• Z-26 Akon LRM: A missile battery mounted on the backpack, over the left shoulder. The Akon is a large guided missile suited for long-range support by backline combat Orbitals. A combat-rated autoloader system ensures continued usefulness in protracted engagements. Despite being a technologically mature weapon system, the Akon-class missile is the obvious choice for long-range strikes by cautious pilots. The guidance system on this weapon makes it dangerous only versus larger or slower enemy crafts. Unfortunately, the slow speed of these missiles makes them vulnerable to any half-decent point defense system. In addition, quicker targets can outmaneuver the missiles in the air, which somewhat limits the Akon's otherwise considerable punch. Still, despite these weaknesses, Akon-class missiles are effective in large batteries, where the sheer number of missiles in flight at any given time can persistently distract and sometimes damage enemy Orbitals.
• T-15 Keraunos Hypervelocity Driver: A large cannon mounted on the backpack, over the right shoulder. The hypervelocity driver uses a 2-stage process to accelerate a uranium slug with a magnetized iron-cobalt core to a very high velocity. A chemical charge accelerates the slug first, then the magnetic coils take over, accelerating the slug further and stabilizing its flight. The slug is highly charged by the time it reaches the target, generating a significant amount of electromagnetic interference on the target it impacts. Only modestly effective against particularly well-armored targets, but the EMP field generated by successful hits can cripple enemy systems.
• D-42 Hephaestus Assault Gun: Occasionally referred to as "The Hag" due to its rugged appearance, the Hephaestus Assault Gun is a medium-range Orbital-class assault rifle designed to punch through heavy armor. It is a truly devastating weapon platform, named after an archaic god of volcanoes. A typical HAG system features two large barrels that take turns firing armor-destroying rounds at 240 RPM. An electro-magnetic ejector, powered feed system, and nanocoolants allow the weapon to fire for extended periods of time. The shaped charge shells have low muzzle velocity and great armor penetrating power, but can be swapped out for NATO standard rounds or other specialized ammunition if necessary.
• GT-150 Typhon Torpedo: A single unguided torpedo of devasting yield with a powerful onboard engine, fired from a disposable rocket launcher. The quintessential strike weapon, a single Typhon torpedo is a large self-propelled, armored, dumbfire delivery system for an enriched AM-catalyzed nuclear warhead. As the warhead is not equipped with a guidance device, it is extremely hard to use the Typhon torpedo to hit a moving target accurately. However, it is still a highly destructive portable weapon. Recent upgrades to the rocket launcher itself include a foregrip and added sight unit for improved accuracy. The science behind the surprisingly compact detonator is poorly understood by many, though widely speculated to be based on physics classified as secret by United Nations authority. What is known is that three or four of these slipping through PD arcs are enough to destroy even large capital ships.
• S-9 Kopis Beam Cutter: The standard close range armament for most Dodekatheon Orbitals, modified for use by the Ajax. The blade of the Kopis is shorter than most standard beam swords, but has greater cutting power to compensate, as it was intended to be used to cut open ship hulls rather than to duel another Orbital in melee. The beam cutter is a small device held in the Orbital's hands when operated and is powered by a rechargeable energy capacitor. It emits a blade of plasma contained by an I-Field and can cut through most armor not treated with an anti-beam coating. Due to the mounting of a shield on the left arm as part of the added armor, the Ajax's beam cutter is stored on a waist-mounted sheath.
• F-4 Ancile Buckler: A basic defense armament for many Dodekatheon Orbitals. This shield is a thick sheet of armor designed to take severe punishment that would normally destroy an Orbital and is also treated with an anti-beam coating to withstand several beam shots before the coating wears off. Typically, physical shields can only take so much damage before they succumb to the pressure and break. This particular shield is smaller than most Ancile models after considering weight balance, and can also be purged similarly to the Adamantine Armor Plating, if necessary. Ajax is equipped with a shield fixed to the left arm as part of its armor, replacing the beam sword rack of most Orbitals.

Manufacturing History: One of the first few commissions from Dodekatheon Industries, the Ajax was derived from a much older Heavy model that was intended to fulfill the purpose of a resilient fire-support unit, whether that's on the ground or in the hard vacuum of space. The Ajax filled a support role that, at the time, was necessary for battles that required a decisive strike. It was not the fastest, nor the most efficient, but was certainly effective at what it did, and has garnered much respect in its field for its accomplishments.

The Ajax is part of the old guard, but has recently received a number of retrofittings and refurbishments from Dodekatheon Industries, and is now ready to take its place among the new. Whether it's defending the last fortress of the world or besieging the mighty Walls of Troy, you don't have to look far for an Orbital that did what was necessary. With enough firepower to break open even the toughest of bunkers, or the greatest of capital ships, you'll want Ajax by your side.

Weaknesses: The Ajax is from an older time when maneuverability was less of a factor in the face of overwhelming firepower, and it shows. Many of the Ajax's armaments are ill-suited to taking down highly-maneuverable targets and are instead better suited to destroying large, slower targets, or entrenched enemy positions. In addition, due to the size and weight of the Orbital in question, the Ajax's own speed and maneuverability leave much to be desired. The Orbital must rely on its heavy armor to shrug off damage from enemy attacks. It has a few tricks up its sleeve to surprise enemies who want to exploit its slow speed, but once revealed, there isn't much the Ajax can do to actually stop it- making close-quarters engagements against quicker opponents a dangerous prospect for anyone piloting the Ajax.

Due to its reliance on heavy ordnance, the Ajax is naturally quite ammo-hungry, and once its missile bays are depleted, it will be forced to rely on the Keraunos Hypervelocity Driver and Hephaestus Assault Gun- or worse, the Kopis Beam Cutter. Additionally, in spite of its focus on long-range engagements, the Ajax lacks any form of long-range surveillance equipment-- it will need external support from spotters, satellites, or other Orbitals to truly make the best of its weapon systems.

Name: Zakharin ‘Iron Side’ Brusilov
Gender: Male
Age: 67
Appearance:
Brusilov stands an impressive 6’5 with a strong build to his body thanks to the amount of cybernetics in his body. In fact up-to 65% of his body is composed of cybernetics. Consisting of replacement heart, left lung, and spine. Bot of his arms and legs have been replaced as these old 3rd gen parts are far more utilitarian lacking the synthetic skin. Earning the nickname iron side. He keeps his hair in a marine buzz cut. While keeping a magnificent beard and mustache. As his brown hair has long since turned white. He wears the standard UN marine uniform.

Personality:
Brusilov is known to be quite a stubborn man. He carries himself with a degree of professionalism that was instilled into him while he was still in basic. Expecting the same from those under him. The old marine firmly takes to the old notion that a good officer must lead from the front as it inspires his men. He has known protective lives under his command more than his own life. Brusilov hates being reminded of his old age.

Backstory:
Born to a blue collar family in the slums of Moscow around 182 SA. Life was tough upbringing in the old capital of the Russian federation. He struggled in school throughout his youth and nearly dropped out of school during his freshman year. He had already joined a small street gang. But despite this Zakharin still wanted more to his life. Soon an opportunity presented itself as a United Nation marines corps recruiter came to Moscow. Hearing the possible life he could have in the marines granted the young man some clarity. Brusilov was able to lie about his age and joined the marines.

Zakharin shipped out to the UN marine training camp. Unlike his struggles with school he took greatly to his new life in the military. His zeal during his time earned him a promotion to the rank of corporal. Once his training was complete Brusilov was shipped out to the fight in the belt pacification campaign. Clearing out pirate and smugglers bases hidden among the asteroids. He performed admirably during the operation earning him an officers commission.

Over the next couple of decades Brusilov sent to different hotspots across the systems earning fame and metals for his service in the marine. Eventually making up to the rank of major where he stayed for several years avoiding any promotion to a higher rank. His desire not to achieve higher rank came from a concern that he would no longer be able to take part in front-line combat. This fear came back when assisting in a peacekeeping operation on Titan. A car bomb went off next to his squad during one of their patrols. Taking the full brunt of the explosion he was quickly evacuated to a medical station. And after a grueling 12 hour surgery ended up with most of his body being replaced with cybernetics. When Brusilov recovered from the wounds he was able to get sent back to his unit.

As Zakharin's long and illustrious career dragged on a certain issue became more apparent. The cyborg became more concerned that one day he would be pulled from combat and stuck behind a desk. He started to look for a way to avoid retirement. Brusilov soon was informed about an opening on Pandora for their head of security requested a transfered to the expedition. Having the old marine on the ship was considered to be a major boon for the expedition but they informed him if he wanted the position he would have accepted the rank of colonel. Reluctantly Brusilov accepted the position.

Skills and Flaws:
-Cybernetics: Since a lot of Brusilov body have been replaced with cybernetics it confers many benefits to him. Enhance strength, durability, and inbuilt weapons. But he has several medical issues due to the implants. For one his blood has to be dialysis as his blood is synthetic. Another problem is that he has older generation cybernetics thus requiring him to take special drugs in order to keep his body from rejecting the implants.
-Harden Veteran: A long and extensive career in the UN marines as both a regular enlisted man to piloting an Orbitals has molded Brusilov into a dangerous foe to engage. With a large amount of training and experience to call upon.
- Old age: The colonel has begun to slow down in his old age and has trouble accumulating new technology.

Equipment:
-Standard issue UNMC uniform
-.45 handgun
- Automatic 8 gauge shotgun
-toolkit
- box of cigars/zippo lighter
Cybernetics implants:
-Dermal Armor: Zakharin has armor woven into his skin that is able to reduce inflicted damage effects from blunt trauma, ballistic attacks, cutting, and/or slashing attacks. Secondary functionality also provides protection from electromagnetic pulse (EMP) assault. Although it limits the flexibility of his own skin. The dermal armor lacks in comparison to proper ballistic protection.
-Nanoblade: mounted on the top of his right arm is a monomolecular edge blade. Works great against flesh and light armor. But is ineffective for cutting through ceramic-metallic plate armor or similar material.
-Implanted SMG: In his left arm is mounted into his arm. Meant to be a holdout weapon in case of an emergency. It can't be reloaded without removing some of the arm plates.
-Shock absorbed: The leg's higher-density muscle bunches in tandem with the shock-absorbing gel matrix found in its knee joints is far better at absorbing shock. Allowing the Zakharin to survive longer falls.
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Model Number: CO-m31(A) Odysseus
Role: Command
Appearance:
The Odysseus stands at the regular height for an Orbital about 21 meters. Its body is the most noticeable thing about the orbital as all that comes from that orbital series. Its body is designed to maximize protection of the more important systems while trying to reduce weight.
Systems:
Sensor Array: The sensors on Odysseus are highly advanced, able to cut through most forms of interference giving it a clear view of the battle field harvesting any information is funneled into the pilot and to the battle net for other Orbitals to use.
Battle net: Far more than just a simple Communication system. The battle net links many different orbitals onto a signal network. This new work provides Common operational picture to not only the pilot of the Odysseus but to all Orbitals on the network. The net relies on an advanced A.I that the command can use to perform complicated maneuvers co-ordinates ground, air, and orbital assets.
Drone network: The Orbital carries a series of modular drones that can be outfitted for various duties. From armed with mounted auto-cannons and missile pods. Extra sensor equipment to give a larger view of the battle field for spotting and recon. Even outfitted with some simple repair equipment for battlefield maintenance.
Weapons: The CO-m31(D) due to its role is armed with;
-H&K ac-40: A favorite among those of the UNMC developed by Heckler and Koch. The bullpup gun offers firepower and accuracy. As well as it can fire a variety of ammunition types from solid slugs to HE rounds.
-M-50: A multi rocket missile launcher that can fire either smart or dumb fire ammunition. The system has an autoloader to refill the empty tubes in between salvos.
-Vibro-blade: For close quarter combat it has a blade vibrate at an incredible speed causing it to be able to cut through all sorts of material and it is mounted into the wrist.
Manufacturing History:
Developed by the UN Military commission on Orbital development in 240 as a part to develop the next generation of orbitals. The goal of which was to create a series of Orbitals to take advantage of the newly created battlenet called the Trojan series. Each given the names of Greek heroes the first to make it through the design was Odysseus as the Achilles and Ajax are stuck in a bureaucratic gridlock. The series disposed most of the established design traditions of orbital giving the series its unique look. The Odysseus was sent out to units for field trials. The feedback from pilots led to improvements in the survivability of the unit.
Weaknesses:
The main drawback to the unit is the lack of offensive capabilities and defensive that the Orbital has. As armor and shielding units had been removed to make room for the various sensors and communication within the Orbitals body. Due to all the sophisticated systems it has a vulnerability to electronic warfare.

Name: [ERR.084 // FIELD CORRUPTED.] // "Gypsy Alexandros"

Gender: Female

Age: 26

Appearance: Given that her choice of eyewear obscures up to half of her face, down to the tip of her nose, it can be difficult to determine the true features of Gypsy Alexandros. Her skin is the golden tan of a girl who spends her free time in the booth, and though her hair is naturally blonde it looks like it's been bleached lighter and lighter with regularity over the years; sandier, almost-brown roots can occasionally be caught in the light. She looks like she should be a surfer or a swimsuit model, not a first contact specialist. Her teal eyes, tending closer to green, only add another oceanic flair to the beach babe appeal. Most of her clothing has been cobbled together over the years, stolen by flings, so much of what she wears outside her pilot suit is often leather, faded denim, and a little too big for her. She has her navel pierced with a pair of studs.

Personality: A charismatic, thoroughly spaced-out, go with the flow kind of girl. Gypsy's cultivated air of mystery seems to be the most careful thing about her, and her reassured manner can be a source of comfort or disquiet. She seems a bit detached from most conversations she's involved in - not that she's not paying attention to what's being said, but more as though her responses can be a little vague or dreamy, with strange, small anachronisms being a personal staple. She is, however, a keen judge of character, and adroit at both lying and detecting liars, as well as a hit-and-miss source of advice in general; in fact, she occasionally seems to deliberately offer misleading opinions or advice if only to bait out potential counterpoints, or make someone question the merits of their own decision more thoroughly. This can be done in conversations both personal and professional.

She values her leisure time highly, often kicking back with books, music, and some form of simulated sunlight to make her feel like she's tanning. She's had a colorful record with relationships, mostly do to her own nature, and so likes to keep her interactions with all people at varying flavors of casual, whether friendly, romantic, or adversarial in nature.

Backstory: To hear Gypsy tell of her own life, you would hear...well, not much. She spent her college years on the beaches of Europe, burning through men, an occasional woman, pizza and alcohol on a fast track to a United Nations career she was thoroughly unsuited for and even more thoroughly uninterested in. Once she had well and truly washed up in college, she returned to her native Mars, settling into a job as a corporate test pilot for one of the myriad conglomerates that had seized control of Mars after the failed Mars Sphere Revolution of a century prior. to hear Gypsy tell of her own life, she basically just hung around Mars doing much of the same, but now with a company tab to put her vices on, and lucked into a berth on Pandora.

Obviously, there is more to her life than what Gypsy tells.

For one thing, although she had indeed wound up withdrawing from college on Earth, her grades were impeccable up until the very semester before she was schedule to advance further in her career track - although school officials, under duress, might eventually be coaxed to admit that her enrollment in the first place came with a generous donation in favor of a transcript. Her withdrawal seemed motivated with the job she took immediately upon returning to Mars, a test piloting gig with the Martian Orbital developer Chiron Works similar to those snatched up by ex-military or mercenary types. In addition to what the occupation that went on her taxes, however, she was also a corporate attache for a variety of expeditions related to the possibility of alien life from Venus to the habitats of the Jovian Sphere. With those qualifications in mind, it's no surprise that she, and the mysterious, exotic-looking Orbital she pilots, found themselves onboard Pandora.

Skills and Flaws: Though charismatic and capable of coaxing people to achieve their best, she also seems unable to connect with them on any deeper level. She doesn't open up well about herself or the things she desires, and aloof curiosity seems to have completely taken the place of the natural, primal fear of the unknown innate in humans. This makes her a formidable Orbital pilot, but also a reckless one, constantly removing safety limiters on her machine without proper oversight. In her free time, she likes to bake homemade pizzas, play the guitar, and is toying with the idea of writing her first novel - she has a talent for narrative and prose, but her spaced out nature can lead to procrastination, and she has a hard time realizing what makes her characters tick.

Equipment: A stylish, completely unique and original mask and two pairs of sunglasses for every day of the week. Portable music device.

---

Model Number: CW-023 Atrox Fortuna // Anemoi-001 "Gypsy Soul"

Role: Close-Combat Precision Assault Unit

Appearance: 16.8 meters, designed as a pastiche of the original extraterrestrial war machines, given a complete crimson paint job per pilot specification. Pretty sick lookin'.

Systems:
Haidos Stealth System - The crown jewel of the Atrox Fortuna, the Haidos stealth system is designed to block infrared emission and limit visual identification through the dispersion of colloidal nanoparticles, modified by certain polymers, to create a stronger, more durable material that light can also pass through. In theory, on an unpainted suit, this would be a breakthrough in materials science that allows for almost-total "invisibility" while retaining the more durable frame. Gypsy, however, has had her test unit painted bright red, so some of the effect is lost. It turns a little pinkish in the right light though.
Ablative Armor - A second layer of protection atop the Atrox Fortuna's armor, the Orbital's ablative armor covering provides an extra level of defense against beam or directed energy weapons, flaking off at the time of the absorption of impact. The armor does little to protect against kinetic strikes, a weakness of the Atrox Fortuna suit in general.
High-Performance Package ver. Praxis Clock - The wing binders and tail stabilizer of the Atrox Fortuna were originally designed for long-term in-atmosphere usage, one of many such modifications made with the Orbital's original purpose in mind. Upon the suit's modification into a stealth attack unit, many of the limiters on the mobility systems and the Oberth Reactor were stripped away at the test pilot's request - and what limits were imposed on her by the company were quietly tinkered with, stealthily enough to make the suit itself blush. Moving three times faster than a normal G-Hawk comes with its downsides, however - namely an intense strain on the pilot and the constant risk of Oberth Reactor strain or outright power failure.

Weapons:
Argive Industrial CFL-M Marksman Rifle x1- Further running the risk of stunted power generation is the large-scale Char's Fucking Combat-Functional long-range marksmanship rifle rifle. Although it fires snazzy, incredibly stylized crimson rounds, for conservation reasons and in keeping with the pilot's preferred fighting style, this rifle usually goes unequipped unless the Atrox Fortuna is directly connected to the Pandora.
Argive Industrial CFL-LL Beam Vulcans x4 - More often used in engagements are several small-scale beam Vulcans, two mounted on the forearms and two in the cranial unit. Though not capable of doing much damage to many Orbitals, or even the Heavies of old, they are more than capable of fending off point-blank assaults, munitions fire, or the odd bit, funnel, or drone assault.
Jawaid & Jawaid Industries Samadhi Laser Sabre x1- Whatever. You know what this is. You've watched anime, I've watched anime. This one is red because of very complicated power conservation reasons. It is the Atrox Fortuna's primary weapon in most engagements, paired with the Looking Glass.
Quess-Paraya Defenses Looking Glass Protective Shield x1 - An ornate shield that also serves as the only non-crimson spot of color on the Atrox Fortuna, the Looking Glass is more than capable of withstanding large-scale kinetic hits that the Orbital itself would shy away from. It also has the same ablative coating that the Orbital sports, to disperse most directed energy weapon fire.

Manufacturing History: The Atrox Fortuna bears, to use a descriptive trope often whipped out in the days of the old HFV design, quite the "striking appearance." Its exotic, borderline-inhuman design was the first aspect of the suit to come together. A team of Chiron Works' finest mechanical designers painstakingly analyzed the awe-inspiring machines discovered buried in Siberia centuries prior, and through a little well-meaning, innocent corporate espionage even managed to obtain up close pictures of a couple of the original alien suits from whatever government warehouse they had been mothballed in. The design cues wound up comprising the first drafts of the CW-023 Atrox Fortuna.

The alien appearance of Chiron's latest Orbital was no accident. It had been designed with the expectation of future alien incursion into the solar system from the nascent beginnings of its development, and the Atrox Fortuna's purpose was to provide a bit of a familiar "face" to the species that (presumably) had abandoned a ship full of war machines in the first place. The suit, hypothetically, would provide a measure of comfort and open dialogue between our species and our extraterrestrial visitors - or, at the very least, convince them that we had adopted enough of their technology in order to pose a viable threat to an invasion force.

Strangely, the test pilot itself seemed to have more and more input on the suit's specifications and intended role as time went on, moreso than one would expect for a corporate employee with no past qualifications as a mechanical designer. Many of her improvements seemed to make for a more finely tuned machine, however, and the suit fit both its old and new niches with a surprising panache, so it was only natural that the Atrox Fortuna and its pilot would receive Chiron Works' berth onboard the expedition to Proxima Centauri.

Weaknesses: The Atrox Fortuna is designed to slip in, hit fast, then retreat. It's a highly-specced hit and run unit that was even further specialized by its pilot, and relies greatly on her own speed and instinct to avoid overclocking the suit or sustaining critical damage. Delivering that damage, should she slip up, is not hard.

Name: Artemie Isra
Gender: Female
Age: 23 (Born 211 SA)
Personality: Brave, enterprising, dutiful, and resolute… On duty. Artemie had to be all of these things to volunteer for the mission she did but she couldn’t have predicted the toll that it would take on her personally. On her own time Artemie feels out of place, or more accurately out of time. Even though the years passed like the blink of an eye for her she is acutely aware that events that feel like yesterday for her happened, in some cases, years before her colleagues were old enough to serve. Every now and again the reminder can give the naturally outgoing girl pause, putting her on the back foot until she can power through it. She tends to overcompensate by trying to learn everything that has happened since her mission began all at once, cramming information in until she can’t help but get some of it muddled. These habits can give the impression of someone a little absentminded.

In the cockpit all of her uncertainty disappears replaced with calm assurance. Despite being one of the most junior members of the expedition experientially she has no problem holding her own with people actually her own age. Artemie loves to chat when she has her feet firmly planted in the present, and remains fascinated by the years of Orbital development that happened while she was gone.
Backstory: Artemie Isra was born in 211 SA on the Moon colony of Armstrong, a thriving city of almost a million souls. She was given up for adoption but the fact never really bothered her; she had loving adoptive parents, a home, and a comfortable childhood. The probe bound for Proxima Centauri launched when she was three years old and little Artemie was fascinated. Her excitement never died down, not when the probe arrived, not in the years waiting for the data to come back, and certainly not when she became a pilot in preparation for any expedition that might come her way. Or when she studied in her free time to become a technician. Artemie Isra had been born in time to explore the stars and she was determined to do just that. Most of her training was done on recently decommissioned Heavies, graduating to the newer Orbitals during her service and signing up for any mission that might get her closer to the stars.

And then the probe data failed to return on time. Months dragged on, and the diagnosis came back; the booster the probe had dropped on its way to Proxima Centauri had malfunctioned. Two and a half lightyears away, too far for any drone to repair it and too far for it to be easily replaced. Someone would have to go and fix it.

Artemie volunteered.

Her adoptive parents had passed away a few years earlier, she had no siblings, and few attachments. And it was a chance to go farther than anyone had traveled to date. Two and a half lightyears, almost ten years of travel, just to reach the booster and repair it. She strapped into the first deep space Orbital anyone could lay hands on and went to sleep. When she awoke she had reached her destination and nothing could have prepared her for the emptiness so far past the limits of her solar system. She made her repairs in just under twelve hours, and went down again for the cold sleep to wait for CAPEI Operations to confirm the data had been received. Not, admittedly, before she took a peek for herself.

The computer woke her again with a choice; the data had been received, and an expedition had been greenlit. It would leave before she returned. She could set course for home and settle in for the long nap, and the twenty year wait for what answers the expedition would find… Or she could go back into cryo and wait for the Pandora to collect her on its way to Proxima Centauri.

She went to sleep again, with a preprogrammed intercept with the Pandora scheduled in twelve years. She wouldn’t wake again for another twenty.

But she would see the light of another star.
Skills and Flaws: Despite one of the longest service records, Artemie has among the least actual combat experience among the Pandora’s pilots. She was born, raised, and served on the Moon; so far in-system there was no cause for Orbital deployment on anything more than routine patrols. Her simulator scores, her practice battles, all of her scores on paper are excellent and indicative of the gifted pilot that she is but she has never had to face a real battle; an opponent with the intent to kill. Similarly, despite her best efforts, her knowledge of Orbitals is thirty years out of date.

On the other hand, her engineering knowledge is top notch. She was tapped to fix the relay for her knowledge in both piloting and electronics, after all, and had to have the requisite knowledge to repair any one of the systems that may have malfunctioned. Additionally, she would need to be able to repair her Orbital, her cryostasis equipment, or any one of half a dozen critical systems necessary for her mission. As a result, Artemie is a repairwoman and Macgyver par excellence.

Her piloting style tends more towards the creative than the textbook, a work of instinct and not of protocol. She always looks for the edge, the upgrade that she can fashion for herself to narrow the playing field.
Equipment: Artemie has nothing on her person that she did not take on her original mission. Owing to the original mission profile, that means she has an extensive tool box, a standard issue sidearm, a diagnostic computer, a pilot suit, and her uniform.

Model Number: IS-049 Voyager (“Starlight”)
Role: Deep Space Operations
Appearance: Tall and powerfully built at 24.5m tall, with tapered spires upon its shoulders and a protruding chest like a bomber’s nose. Inset in the tip is a gleaming red circular emitter. Its shoulders descend into cylindrical forearms, its legs long and aerodynamic. A regal, crested helm with a red sensor visor to protect its cameras adorns the top. Variable wing stabilizes adorn its back and calves, with thrusters mounted on its back, shoulders, calves, and the bottom of its feet. The Starlight is cast in hues of blued steel, with small red details and gold accents. Inscribed just below the emitter on its chest in hand sprayed gold letters are the words “Ultima Ratio Regum”, and on either shoulder “Luci Ad Tenebras”.

Powerful boosters in unaccented black are added to its shoulders and calves when fully equipped for deep space operations.
Systems:
-X Corp “G-Aegis” Emitters: Beam emitters mounted in the shoulders and chest, designed to form an arrowhead shaped shield ahead of the Voyager during flight to incinerate any debris that might cause harm during its relativistic journey. Can be formed in an arrowhead ‘above’ and encompassing the upper body of the Voyager, or the emitters can flip forward and cast a wider, more blunted shape over the front of the Voyager above the head and down to the waist.
-Isurugi Heavy Industries “Dauntless” Booster System: Four boosters, with their own additional capacitors charged off of the Voyager’s Oberth Reactor. Fitted on its shoulders and calves, the Dauntless boosters are capable of significantly increasing the Voyager’s straightline acceleration and stamina at the cost of some maneuverability. Can be purged, but cannot be reattached in the field.
-Isurugi Heavy Industries “Starlight” Electronics Suite: Something of a misnomer, “Starlight” is the Voyager’s computer. Capable of filtering interference out from signals at great distance, limited automation of Orbital functions slaved to voice command, and following preprogrammed flight plans with self correcting trajectories due to outside interference.

Weapons:
-X Corp G-Lancier: The torso emitter for the G-Aegis is also capable of acting as a beam cannon of considerable strength, enough to destroy an Orbital if it hits. The output is variable and can be cranked higher than is recommended, but at substantial drain to the Voyager’s power. The Voyager does not have powerful enough targeting systems to make a shot at greater than medium range unassisted.
-X Corp G-Aegis: Though intended to deal with debris, the G-Aegis is both the Voyager’s most powerful (and only) defense as well as one of its most powerful offensive tools. The same beam shield intended to protect it from debris will protect it from solid projectiles, as well as energy attacks… As long as the power supply holds. In the same fashion, it can be used to turn the entire Orbital into a beam tipped projectile with considerable ramming speed.
-Isurugi Heavy Industries 50mm Rotary Cannon: Mounted in the right forearm, magnetically fired.
-Jawaid and Jawaid Cluster Missiles x2: Hip mounted.
-Isurugi Heavy Industries Beam Saber: Left arm stored.
Manufacturing History: Isurugi Heavy Industries’ Voyager is a second generation Orbital hurriedly commissioned in 234 SA.. Without the time for a long development cycle Isurugi borrowed one of the prototype frames for what would eventually become the IS-50 Odysseus in reference to the long journey of their sister. Despite their shared base the Voyager was designed from top to bottom in less than six months for use in deep space beyond any hope for assistance. First and foremost, the Voyager was fitted with thirty percent more capacitors than any Orbital at the time. It wouldn’t speed up the recharge, but it would make sure there was more power initially available. And it was necessary; the booster assemblies that would accelerate it to the nearly same maximum speed available to an Oberth Reactor-powered ship needed an incredible amount of power to start up.

From there the Voyager needed to be able to sustain its pilot for the planned round trip, nearly twenty years. That meant building the facilities to keep Artemie in cryostasis into a single ‘room’ on board the boosters, along with building an access point on the Orbital’s back to move from her stasis chamber to the cockpit. The Voyager required an above average AI to control its functions, as well. Though far from a true artificial intelligence the on board computer needed to be able to follow a programmed course, recognize debris in the way, and wake its pilot in case of emergency.

And in keeping with standing human policy, it had to be armed. No sanctioned human excursion into the black went without the capability to defend itself.
Weaknesses: The Voyager is fast, strong, enduring… And it was never meant to be a frontline combat unit. Its arsenal draws on the same enhanced capacitors it needed for its sustained mission, and the most potent of its offensive arsenal simply repurposes the same technology that mission required. Used at its full potential the Voyager will run out of power rapidly and be left dead in the water. Owing to this restriction, Artemie will refrain from using its beam options (aside from the saber) as much as she can. This means the Voyager makes requent use of its rotary cannon, and frankly, its bare hands. Though the G-Aegis is a powerful defense, against any sort of sustained assault it will drain the capacitors rapidly. Against a sustained energy attack the shield would drain the capacitors exponentially, while physical munitions are less of an issue.