D E F I N I T I O N
This is a Final Fantasy-esque roleplay in a semi-futuristic setting. The story centers on young adults from a military academy. The world is at war with a dangerous foe, but its cause extends beyond the stars. The young adults are ignorant to their important role in this conspiracy. They leave the safety of a sheltered environment, brave the world and endure hardships, suffer the plight of betrayal, and awaken to their rightful identities. I've attempted this story before, but it has grown increasingly complex each time. I've also attempted other stories betwixt, but none of them has the same passion. Click the image above for some music, as you read.
P R E L U D E
A great celestial body impacted the world twenty years ago. The event was a Calamity in every sense of the word. When the ash had settled, an extraterrestrial being in a coma induced stupor was found in the crater. An agreement between world leaders was signed that paved way for scientific experimentation on the being. The project was named Jenova. While minimal knowledge could be learned about its anatomy and consciousness, the flesh and blood of the being connected missing links within the field of medicine. A new vaccine was produced that repelled or completely prohibited known diseases and fatal conditions.
However, humanity began to reject the new cells within their bodies. They experienced horrific ailments, nightmares, and physical metamorphoses. An emergency remedy was executed. Those who could be saved had their infected limbs removed and replaced by prosthetic augmentations, those who had transgressed too far were exterminated, and the rest lost their humanity. The latter transformed into monsters. They were slaves to the consciousness of Jenova. During this time, the crater of the Calamity had secreted an infestation that corrupted nature and its beasts. The presence of this extraterrestrial organism had disrupted the ecosystem of the world to such an extent that military action was required.
The standard armies of all nations of the world joined to form the United Defense Force. The allocation of military resources quickly spiraled out of control, however. The most endangered nations and areas all demanded priority at the same time. The commanding official of the United Defense Force ultimately declared the army an independent governing body. This was the only way to prevent stagnation of action due to political issues. A long term solution in the form of mandatory military academies was also implemented. However, nations around the world retained their Special Operation Forces with which they conducted a messy shadow war for the control of resources, control of the United Defense Force, control of the Jenova Project, and secured dominance after the infestation crisis.
The infestation, known as Stigma, caused the spirits of the wild to seek refuge in humanity in order to prevent total decline. Most things in the world has a spiritโmountains and rivers, trees and flowers, thunder and wind, and everything betwixt inhabit sentient entities known as spirits. They are believed to be the remnants of the creator of the universe. The presence of the Stigma drove spirits away from their natural embodiments, seeking sanctuaries in human beings. Those who were chosen, those who had not been corrupted by the blood of Jenova, were chosen and became known as Guardians.
The universe was created from the flesh of a great being, Adon. We know it now as the infinite energies and elements that binds existence together. The first sentient entity that formed within the universe was Etro. As it was known to him and all those who came thereafter, whichever force in the universe that stands higher than all others will be known as Etro. However, that which is known as Etro cannot be infinite, for such attribute can only be ascribed to Adon.
Etro was not pleased in his heart knowing that an adversary would one day refute him. Therefore, he created a device that was later to be known as Phyrexia. Within this device, Etro locked away a singularity that would upon his death transport his consciousness to a previous state as ruler. As such, the universe would infinitely repeat itself. Etro existed like this for thousands of cycles before the device was discovered by his imminent creations.
Half of Etroโs host shouted heresy at the Phyrexia device, but the other half remained loyal. A great war ensued that the rebels eventually lost. However, before they were cast from their seats, they hurled Phyrexia into the vast and infinitely expanding universe. After the war, Etro ordered a number of his loyal followers to search for the device, but they failed. As punishment, they were banished to the outskirts of the stars to live as whatever wretched beings that had evolved in that place.
The rebels and the loyalists began to search for Phyrexia. When it became clear that the rebels were attempting to recruit the eyes and ears of various species in the universe, Etro hurled massive meteors infested with nightmares in all directions, as an attempt to disrupt life within the billions of galaxies of the universe. Realizing that the endless search would prevent any force from refuting Etro, the rebels began to search for the banished Seekers instead.
However, humanity began to reject the new cells within their bodies. They experienced horrific ailments, nightmares, and physical metamorphoses. An emergency remedy was executed. Those who could be saved had their infected limbs removed and replaced by prosthetic augmentations, those who had transgressed too far were exterminated, and the rest lost their humanity. The latter transformed into monsters. They were slaves to the consciousness of Jenova. During this time, the crater of the Calamity had secreted an infestation that corrupted nature and its beasts. The presence of this extraterrestrial organism had disrupted the ecosystem of the world to such an extent that military action was required.
The standard armies of all nations of the world joined to form the United Defense Force. The allocation of military resources quickly spiraled out of control, however. The most endangered nations and areas all demanded priority at the same time. The commanding official of the United Defense Force ultimately declared the army an independent governing body. This was the only way to prevent stagnation of action due to political issues. A long term solution in the form of mandatory military academies was also implemented. However, nations around the world retained their Special Operation Forces with which they conducted a messy shadow war for the control of resources, control of the United Defense Force, control of the Jenova Project, and secured dominance after the infestation crisis.
The infestation, known as Stigma, caused the spirits of the wild to seek refuge in humanity in order to prevent total decline. Most things in the world has a spiritโmountains and rivers, trees and flowers, thunder and wind, and everything betwixt inhabit sentient entities known as spirits. They are believed to be the remnants of the creator of the universe. The presence of the Stigma drove spirits away from their natural embodiments, seeking sanctuaries in human beings. Those who were chosen, those who had not been corrupted by the blood of Jenova, were chosen and became known as Guardians.
The universe was created from the flesh of a great being, Adon. We know it now as the infinite energies and elements that binds existence together. The first sentient entity that formed within the universe was Etro. As it was known to him and all those who came thereafter, whichever force in the universe that stands higher than all others will be known as Etro. However, that which is known as Etro cannot be infinite, for such attribute can only be ascribed to Adon.
Etro was not pleased in his heart knowing that an adversary would one day refute him. Therefore, he created a device that was later to be known as Phyrexia. Within this device, Etro locked away a singularity that would upon his death transport his consciousness to a previous state as ruler. As such, the universe would infinitely repeat itself. Etro existed like this for thousands of cycles before the device was discovered by his imminent creations.
Half of Etroโs host shouted heresy at the Phyrexia device, but the other half remained loyal. A great war ensued that the rebels eventually lost. However, before they were cast from their seats, they hurled Phyrexia into the vast and infinitely expanding universe. After the war, Etro ordered a number of his loyal followers to search for the device, but they failed. As punishment, they were banished to the outskirts of the stars to live as whatever wretched beings that had evolved in that place.
The rebels and the loyalists began to search for Phyrexia. When it became clear that the rebels were attempting to recruit the eyes and ears of various species in the universe, Etro hurled massive meteors infested with nightmares in all directions, as an attempt to disrupt life within the billions of galaxies of the universe. Realizing that the endless search would prevent any force from refuting Etro, the rebels began to search for the banished Seekers instead.
C H A R A C T E R S
You will portray a student of Oakridge Military Academy. The active school years for a student is between ages seven and twenty-five. Your character is about to enter the last phase of their education, which means that they are twenty-two or twenty-three years old. The last phase primarily consists of active field duty and missions.
Your character is also a Guardian. This means that they are stronger and faster than regular soldiers, able to withstand more punishment, immune to common diseases, and able to exert magic through spirit possession. The number of Guardians at Oakridge Military Academy is such that most of them will more or less know each other. If not by heart, then at least by name. It is entirely up to you to determine how well your character knows the other player characters at the academy. However, in the end, you will be bound to each other in a meaningful way.
There will not be a โbackgroundโ section in the character sheet. Instead, you can at your own leisure reveal your characterโs past through โflashbacksโ in the story. These can also be written with another playerโs character, if your characters have history together. Flashbacks can be past events, memories, or dreamsโanything that tells us more about who your character is. In this sense, flashbacks go hand in hand with your characterโs personality. Whenever you have written a flashback, you simply add it to your character sheet, so that it is easy to find and read again. This will also make sure that you always have something to write, should your Muse dwindle in regards to current events of the story.
There will also be a combat system in this roleplay. All of your characterโs actions during fights will count towards a meter that fills up. When this meter is full, that enemy will be or can be defeated instantly. I, as the Game Master, have a list of general actions and other things that add to the meter after judging a combat-post. You will get to customize your character in such ways that manipulate these numbers in your favor. This system is quite subtle and just a casual, fun aspect of the roleplayโnothing to worry about.
Your character is also a Guardian. This means that they are stronger and faster than regular soldiers, able to withstand more punishment, immune to common diseases, and able to exert magic through spirit possession. The number of Guardians at Oakridge Military Academy is such that most of them will more or less know each other. If not by heart, then at least by name. It is entirely up to you to determine how well your character knows the other player characters at the academy. However, in the end, you will be bound to each other in a meaningful way.
There will not be a โbackgroundโ section in the character sheet. Instead, you can at your own leisure reveal your characterโs past through โflashbacksโ in the story. These can also be written with another playerโs character, if your characters have history together. Flashbacks can be past events, memories, or dreamsโanything that tells us more about who your character is. In this sense, flashbacks go hand in hand with your characterโs personality. Whenever you have written a flashback, you simply add it to your character sheet, so that it is easy to find and read again. This will also make sure that you always have something to write, should your Muse dwindle in regards to current events of the story.
There will also be a combat system in this roleplay. All of your characterโs actions during fights will count towards a meter that fills up. When this meter is full, that enemy will be or can be defeated instantly. I, as the Game Master, have a list of general actions and other things that add to the meter after judging a combat-post. You will get to customize your character in such ways that manipulate these numbers in your favor. This system is quite subtle and just a casual, fun aspect of the roleplayโnothing to worry about.
I N F O R M A T I O N
The following are my โrulesโ. I will focus on the things that you should do rather than the things you should not do, just to keep things positive.
โฆ Follow a simple scheme for posts: React, Act, Observe, and Reflect. Your character reacts to previous actions, your character acts uniquely to move things forward, your character observes the surroundings and other characters, and your character reflects upon feelings and thoughts. These do not have to be presented in this order or only once. The scheme could be: react, observe, act, reflect, act, observe, react, or any variation thereof. This is a simple trick to keep in mind when writing.
โฆ Create and keep a few secondary characters for when and if the muse fails for your main character.
โฆ Post according to your own schedule. Posting depends on you and the time of the year. However, nobody will wait for you. This does not mean that you have to post each week, as waiting time depends on your characterโs relevance in the story. If interactions with your character are heavy, your attention and activity requirement will naturally increase.
โฆ When in doubt, mirror my posting standard in terms of length and quality.
โฆ There is no player limit or desired amount of. I'm happy with the ones who show up at all.
โฆ Follow a simple scheme for posts: React, Act, Observe, and Reflect. Your character reacts to previous actions, your character acts uniquely to move things forward, your character observes the surroundings and other characters, and your character reflects upon feelings and thoughts. These do not have to be presented in this order or only once. The scheme could be: react, observe, act, reflect, act, observe, react, or any variation thereof. This is a simple trick to keep in mind when writing.
โฆ Create and keep a few secondary characters for when and if the muse fails for your main character.
โฆ Post according to your own schedule. Posting depends on you and the time of the year. However, nobody will wait for you. This does not mean that you have to post each week, as waiting time depends on your characterโs relevance in the story. If interactions with your character are heavy, your attention and activity requirement will naturally increase.
โฆ When in doubt, mirror my posting standard in terms of length and quality.
โฆ There is no player limit or desired amount of. I'm happy with the ones who show up at all.
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S P I R I T S
A spirits exist in all living things. Mountains and rivers, trees and flowers, thunder and wind, and everything betwixt inhabit sentient entities known as spirits. They are believed to be the remnants of Adon, the entity that created the universe from its own flesh. Humans also possess a spirit, a strong spirit called a 'soul'. How these souls are different from spirits of the wild is unknown. Perhaps they are the children of Adon, or perhaps they are old spirits that have persisted throughout the ages. Either way, the souls of humans can attract the spirits of the wild, as spirits seek strength and prosperity, and then congregate to form a sanctuary. Those whom carry a sanctuary for spirits within them are known as Guardians. This is not only true for human souls, but also for certain animal souls.
The religious practice of spirituality advocates presence or union with the creator, Adon. One is to be conscious of the soul and the spirits of the wild, and strive towards becoming a sanctuary. A transcendent Guardian once spoke of the 'The Kingdom' that slumbers within oneself rather than in material things. As such, there are no churches or temples, only shrines and places of energy where one may show devotion. Once a deeper understanding of the soul and spirits of the wild, the union with God, and sanctuary has been achieved, a person may transcend to become a beacon of light. The soul of such a person sheds its physical embodiment in order to run free. It is an experience similar to death, but one attained through enlightenment rather than a tragic fate.
Spirits of the wild assume many forms visible to the naked eye. They may appear as ghosts of animals, insects, machines, or formless entities. Their appearance is also enclosed by an array of coloration often linked to the many elements of the world and the universe. A spirit cannot use the languages of human beings, but they can show emotion through action and sound. However, higher intelligence can be achieved by an animal soul through spirit possession. This means that certain animals can learn human languages, but it also means that they are rather powerful Guardians.
Guardians are people or animals with unusually high spirit density. They are sanctuaries to the spirits of the wild. The physical attributes of Guardians are greatly enhanced based on the number of spirits within, and they can also exert the natural energies of spirits as magic. While Guardians can survive situations that would otherwise be fatal, and resist most diseases, they are not immortal and will die due to physical trauma. The bond between spirit and soul is a complex one. Every Guardian is unique, and thereby their enhanced abilities as well. It is also believed that Guardians live longer, if they are able to keep their spirits. Some of the most esoteric Guardians are said to have lived for over two hundred years. However, such a feat requires immense devotion to spirituality.
The religious practice of spirituality advocates presence or union with the creator, Adon. One is to be conscious of the soul and the spirits of the wild, and strive towards becoming a sanctuary. A transcendent Guardian once spoke of the 'The Kingdom' that slumbers within oneself rather than in material things. As such, there are no churches or temples, only shrines and places of energy where one may show devotion. Once a deeper understanding of the soul and spirits of the wild, the union with God, and sanctuary has been achieved, a person may transcend to become a beacon of light. The soul of such a person sheds its physical embodiment in order to run free. It is an experience similar to death, but one attained through enlightenment rather than a tragic fate.
Spirits of the wild assume many forms visible to the naked eye. They may appear as ghosts of animals, insects, machines, or formless entities. Their appearance is also enclosed by an array of coloration often linked to the many elements of the world and the universe. A spirit cannot use the languages of human beings, but they can show emotion through action and sound. However, higher intelligence can be achieved by an animal soul through spirit possession. This means that certain animals can learn human languages, but it also means that they are rather powerful Guardians.
Guardians are people or animals with unusually high spirit density. They are sanctuaries to the spirits of the wild. The physical attributes of Guardians are greatly enhanced based on the number of spirits within, and they can also exert the natural energies of spirits as magic. While Guardians can survive situations that would otherwise be fatal, and resist most diseases, they are not immortal and will die due to physical trauma. The bond between spirit and soul is a complex one. Every Guardian is unique, and thereby their enhanced abilities as well. It is also believed that Guardians live longer, if they are able to keep their spirits. Some of the most esoteric Guardians are said to have lived for over two hundred years. However, such a feat requires immense devotion to spirituality.
O A K R I D G E A C A D E M Y
The Oakridge Military Academy is one of the prestigious and disciplined military educational institutions in the world. It offers a wide selection of programs for students between the ages of seven and up to twenty-five. Oakridge provides an invaluable blueprint for life and all of its challenges, not to mention a guaranteed position of choice within the United Defense Force. The academy complex itself is massive, with hundreds of classrooms, live-action training grounds, combat simulators, relaxation areas, dormitories, two libraries, several cafeterias, recreational areas, and numerous physical education facilities. All regular school subjects are covered in the steering documents, but with minor modifications to make room for military and combat oriented subjects. Students receive lessons in everything from natural sciences to social sciences, applied sciences to philosophy and history, to all things warfare.
The academy offers its students to join one of four different Divisions. These are Warfare, Intelligence, Research, and Navigation. The chosen division determines the specific classes and training a student will receive in addition to the mandatory practices. These divisions exist in the United Defense Force as well, so whatever degree a student attains will be the division they join when entering the war as a soldier.
The Warfare Division turns students into hardened soldiers that will fight the enemy head on. Students are trained in all manner of tactics, physical exercise, weaponry, and utilities in order to survive encounters with a fearsome foe. They also learn how to operate vehicles, tanks, and artillery units. At the academy, the Warfare Division ironically extend their acronym to W.M.D., as in Weapon of Mass Destruction, instead of just W.D. It is a tight community of high levels of testosterone, muscles, and bloodlust. Guardians of the Warfare Division focus on absorbing spirits that enhance and protect their physical attributes.
The Intelligence Division operate from behind the scenes. Their approach to the war is one of subtlety and stealth. Students are trained in precision weaponry, surgical strikes, intelligence gathering, and interrogation. Their activities extend beyond the confrontation with the enemy. Nobody is immune to the practices of the Intelligence Division, as there are traitors to humanity in every corner of the world, and everyone has their own agenda. Upon admission to the Intelligence Division, the identities of its students become classified and their names redacted from all official documents. At the academy, these students are known simply by a nickname of their own choice. Guardians of the Intelligence Division focus on absorbing spirits that assist concealment and movement, more or less turning them into elaborate assassins or snipers.
The Research Division are the brains of the war. They do what they can to learn about anatomy, physics, weapons development, spirits, chemistry, and medicine. The students are required to serve in the field as medics or scientists for a number of years, but can thereafter retire to work in laboratories and other facilities. However, the depths of the Research Division are under constant scrutiny of the Intelligence Division. Some of the practices and experiments conducted by U.D.F. scientists occasionally border amorality. Guardians of the Research Division focus on understanding the nature of spirits. They are as close to sorcerers as one will get.
The Navigation Division are the pilots and mechanics of the army. No matter if the vehicle has wheels, hulls, legs, or wings, the students of this division can drive and repair it. When all the fancy gadgets and systems fail, they can always look to the stars to find the way. They know the lay of the land inside out, a mental map behind their eyes. These soldiers are the survivalists, the men and women that come well prepared. Guardians of the Navigation Division are the esoteric faction of the entire war effort, constantly on the move. They focus on absorbing spirits that cancel, control, or alter other spirits or aspects of nature.
The academy offers its students to join one of four different Divisions. These are Warfare, Intelligence, Research, and Navigation. The chosen division determines the specific classes and training a student will receive in addition to the mandatory practices. These divisions exist in the United Defense Force as well, so whatever degree a student attains will be the division they join when entering the war as a soldier.
The Warfare Division turns students into hardened soldiers that will fight the enemy head on. Students are trained in all manner of tactics, physical exercise, weaponry, and utilities in order to survive encounters with a fearsome foe. They also learn how to operate vehicles, tanks, and artillery units. At the academy, the Warfare Division ironically extend their acronym to W.M.D., as in Weapon of Mass Destruction, instead of just W.D. It is a tight community of high levels of testosterone, muscles, and bloodlust. Guardians of the Warfare Division focus on absorbing spirits that enhance and protect their physical attributes.
The Intelligence Division operate from behind the scenes. Their approach to the war is one of subtlety and stealth. Students are trained in precision weaponry, surgical strikes, intelligence gathering, and interrogation. Their activities extend beyond the confrontation with the enemy. Nobody is immune to the practices of the Intelligence Division, as there are traitors to humanity in every corner of the world, and everyone has their own agenda. Upon admission to the Intelligence Division, the identities of its students become classified and their names redacted from all official documents. At the academy, these students are known simply by a nickname of their own choice. Guardians of the Intelligence Division focus on absorbing spirits that assist concealment and movement, more or less turning them into elaborate assassins or snipers.
The Research Division are the brains of the war. They do what they can to learn about anatomy, physics, weapons development, spirits, chemistry, and medicine. The students are required to serve in the field as medics or scientists for a number of years, but can thereafter retire to work in laboratories and other facilities. However, the depths of the Research Division are under constant scrutiny of the Intelligence Division. Some of the practices and experiments conducted by U.D.F. scientists occasionally border amorality. Guardians of the Research Division focus on understanding the nature of spirits. They are as close to sorcerers as one will get.
The Navigation Division are the pilots and mechanics of the army. No matter if the vehicle has wheels, hulls, legs, or wings, the students of this division can drive and repair it. When all the fancy gadgets and systems fail, they can always look to the stars to find the way. They know the lay of the land inside out, a mental map behind their eyes. These soldiers are the survivalists, the men and women that come well prepared. Guardians of the Navigation Division are the esoteric faction of the entire war effort, constantly on the move. They focus on absorbing spirits that cancel, control, or alter other spirits or aspects of nature.
T E C H N O L O G Y
One of the prominent energy sources of the world is Whale Oil. It is refined oil harvested from different types of whales in the vast oceans surrounding the worldโs two continents. When processed, the oil becomes highly volatile. It is contained in various types of containers of metal such as tanks and drums. Batteries created based on Whale Oil is very popular, and an effective way to extend the availability of the resource. Because of this, the world has a very advanced whaling industry with numerous ports and vessels around the world. It is heavily regulated in order to ensure the continuation of the resource. Illegal whaling and black market Whale Oil is a major issue that hurts the economy and the resource itself.
The United Defense Force employs all manner of military technologies and weapons. Most soldiers utilize body armor, rifles, and various grenades. Naval forces are very strong, ranging from heavily armed warships to carriers and missile platforms. The air force has access everything from attack planes to mighty to hovering fortresses. Lastly, artillery forces can deploy all manner of ranged and experimental weapons, as well as bipedal war machines piloted by a single solider. However, Guardians are known to use various forms of melee weapons instead of ranged ones, even if the latter does occur.
Many computer interfaces and keyboards are holographic. Most types of screens have touch-technology. Cellphones and other communications are very advanced, but with limited reception in different parts of the world. A plethora of different kinds of communication hubs exist on the World Wide Web-network. News, films, and games can be shared and enjoyed on this platform. A popular card-trading game based on the Guardian phenomenon has swept the world. The player controls various spirits and creatures that attack the opponent. Some actual Guardians have made it into the game, as powerful cards, and become famous around the world. This game is called โThe Spirits Withinโ.
Transportation around the world is accomplished by automobile, train, boat, or aircraft. The fuel for these constructions, depending on size and travel distance, is either raw Whale Oil or batteries. All military vehicles also use these energy sources as fuel. As the continents of the world have no major bodies of water, boats are exclusive to open seas. The most popular modes of transportation on land are automobile and train.
The most advanced technology in the world is partially used for prosthetic augmentations for those who have lost limbs due to Stigma infection. These augmentations and implants are crafted from various, rare metals and powered by internal, rechargeable batteries. The same technology, or pattern of technologies, is used in experimental weapons against the Spawns. The United Defense Force has one such weapon currently deployed, but not operational. It is a laser-based, naval artillery unit.
A very popular type of technology and convenience is the vending machine. There are vending machines for all kinds of items. You can buy just about anything in terms of food and drinks, clothing, military equipment, utilities and batteries, and assorted accessories from vending machines. There are also vending machines that sell physical cards from the digital card-trading game โThe Spirits Withinโ. This analogue version of the game is very popular among soldiers on the frontlines.
The United Defense Force employs all manner of military technologies and weapons. Most soldiers utilize body armor, rifles, and various grenades. Naval forces are very strong, ranging from heavily armed warships to carriers and missile platforms. The air force has access everything from attack planes to mighty to hovering fortresses. Lastly, artillery forces can deploy all manner of ranged and experimental weapons, as well as bipedal war machines piloted by a single solider. However, Guardians are known to use various forms of melee weapons instead of ranged ones, even if the latter does occur.
Many computer interfaces and keyboards are holographic. Most types of screens have touch-technology. Cellphones and other communications are very advanced, but with limited reception in different parts of the world. A plethora of different kinds of communication hubs exist on the World Wide Web-network. News, films, and games can be shared and enjoyed on this platform. A popular card-trading game based on the Guardian phenomenon has swept the world. The player controls various spirits and creatures that attack the opponent. Some actual Guardians have made it into the game, as powerful cards, and become famous around the world. This game is called โThe Spirits Withinโ.
Transportation around the world is accomplished by automobile, train, boat, or aircraft. The fuel for these constructions, depending on size and travel distance, is either raw Whale Oil or batteries. All military vehicles also use these energy sources as fuel. As the continents of the world have no major bodies of water, boats are exclusive to open seas. The most popular modes of transportation on land are automobile and train.
The most advanced technology in the world is partially used for prosthetic augmentations for those who have lost limbs due to Stigma infection. These augmentations and implants are crafted from various, rare metals and powered by internal, rechargeable batteries. The same technology, or pattern of technologies, is used in experimental weapons against the Spawns. The United Defense Force has one such weapon currently deployed, but not operational. It is a laser-based, naval artillery unit.
A very popular type of technology and convenience is the vending machine. There are vending machines for all kinds of items. You can buy just about anything in terms of food and drinks, clothing, military equipment, utilities and batteries, and assorted accessories from vending machines. There are also vending machines that sell physical cards from the digital card-trading game โThe Spirits Withinโ. This analogue version of the game is very popular among soldiers on the frontlines.
C O M B A T
The combat system for battles is very simple. It only applies when fighting powerful enemies. What happens is that everything your character does against the enemy is counted towards a meter. When this meter has been filled, the enemy can be defeated. Smaller or normal enemies, cannon fodder, can be defeated at your leisure.
Elemancy is the term for using the power of spirits as magic. Spirits are based on six different elements: Fire, Ice, Lightning, Earth, Air, and Water (heals when used on friendlies). Several elements may attack at once, which will form unique attacks. For example, Fire and Earth will form Magma.
The spirit density of a Guardian is translated into Spirit Points (SP). The default amount of SP for a Guardian is 1000. These points can be invested into a single elemancy attack in order to amplify its damage. Each point amplifies damage by 0.1%. Spirit points do not replenish automatically during combat, but does between battles. At the top or bottom of your combat post, you declare how much SP you invest in magical attacks (if any).
Guardians can also consume various items as catalysts to add effects to their elemancy. These items can be found all throughout nature, in shops, and in vending machines. So, an added effect only occurs when a catalyst is consumed before manifesting the attack. Each added effect lists name, description, and possible catalysts. Some added effects linger after they have been used. This should be self-evident in the description, but ask if unclear.
Elemancy is the term for using the power of spirits as magic. Spirits are based on six different elements: Fire, Ice, Lightning, Earth, Air, and Water (heals when used on friendlies). Several elements may attack at once, which will form unique attacks. For example, Fire and Earth will form Magma.
The spirit density of a Guardian is translated into Spirit Points (SP). The default amount of SP for a Guardian is 1000. These points can be invested into a single elemancy attack in order to amplify its damage. Each point amplifies damage by 0.1%. Spirit points do not replenish automatically during combat, but does between battles. At the top or bottom of your combat post, you declare how much SP you invest in magical attacks (if any).
Guardians can also consume various items as catalysts to add effects to their elemancy. These items can be found all throughout nature, in shops, and in vending machines. So, an added effect only occurs when a catalyst is consumed before manifesting the attack. Each added effect lists name, description, and possible catalysts. Some added effects linger after they have been used. This should be self-evident in the description, but ask if unclear.
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D A R K Z O N E
Everything marked in red on the map is known as the Dark Zone. There are several conflicts ongoing in the Dark Zone at once. First, the overall war effort between the United Defense Force and the entity known as Jenova. Soldiers fight Spawns of Jenova, which take the form of horrible creatures and monsters. Second, civilian Death Squads freely roam and execute other civilians that they deem to be โtoo infectedโ. Third, an organization known as Cleaners use fire and flame throwers to burn everything to the ground. Finally, rogue Guardians known as Aggressors fight the United Defense Force, effectively defending Jenova.
Death Squads emerged shortly after the infection began to spread. Its members are deeply spiritual individuals who value nature over human life. Their practices are illegal and the United Defense Force make several raids and arrests every month. Death Squads are easily identified by their dark clothing and gear, and gas mask helmets. The vision technology covering their eyes glow red in the dark, making their appearance very intimidating.
Cleaners are similar to Death Squads, but less ideological. They do not burn innocent people or people who they โthinkโ are infected. Cleaners only set things on fire when it has clearly been infected by the Stigma. Most Cleaners are disgruntled and broken parents who have lost everything. They know that politics is useless, that the war effort is useless, that the only cure for the infestation is fire. Everything must be ash before it can bloom again.
Aggressors are a complicated matter. They are former Guardians who were sent on missions within the Dark Zone, but never returned. They have somehow been persuaded by the Jenova consciousness to join its cause. Aggressors kill Spawns of the infection, but they also resist the advancement of the United Defense Force, which makes it difficult to determine what they want or who they support.
Death Squads emerged shortly after the infection began to spread. Its members are deeply spiritual individuals who value nature over human life. Their practices are illegal and the United Defense Force make several raids and arrests every month. Death Squads are easily identified by their dark clothing and gear, and gas mask helmets. The vision technology covering their eyes glow red in the dark, making their appearance very intimidating.
Cleaners are similar to Death Squads, but less ideological. They do not burn innocent people or people who they โthinkโ are infected. Cleaners only set things on fire when it has clearly been infected by the Stigma. Most Cleaners are disgruntled and broken parents who have lost everything. They know that politics is useless, that the war effort is useless, that the only cure for the infestation is fire. Everything must be ash before it can bloom again.
Aggressors are a complicated matter. They are former Guardians who were sent on missions within the Dark Zone, but never returned. They have somehow been persuaded by the Jenova consciousness to join its cause. Aggressors kill Spawns of the infection, but they also resist the advancement of the United Defense Force, which makes it difficult to determine what they want or who they support.
G E O G R A P H Y
The top continent is named Libra. The bottom continent is named Cetra.
The map only shows towns and cities still standing and able to defend themselves. The indicator for the Stigma does not show intensity of infection. It might be that traces of it can be found in nature, but otherwise the area is unaffected. As a rule of thumb, the infection is stronger the further north and closer to Crater it gets.
Oakridge is a city-state located near the southern shores of Cetra. Its Head of State holds a centrist-political view on most issues. Being one of the largest and wealthiest city-states of the continent, it naturally attracts a lot of people and business. Its military academy of the same name is renowned all over the world. Oakridgeโs economy is primarily based on export of Whale Oil, soldiers for the United Defense Force, and experimental technology.
Paron is a city-state located in the midlands of Cetra. It currently has the highest density of refugees, comparable to Juno of Libra. However, the it is only a gateway city, so the refugees rarely linger. Paron is also the United Defense Forceโs primary forward base of operations, due to its proximity to the infection. The cityโs economy has been frozen and relies heavily on donations and imports from other city-states. However, there is a mine close by that is rich in rare metals.
Accadia and Insomnia are the only city-states in the northern regions of both continents still able to defend their borders from the infection and creatures. Communication with these cities are scarce, but they do send a status report to the United Defense Force once every two weeks. Supplies to these cities are air-dropped once a week. These two cities are heavily reinforced and function as bunkers behind enemy lines. Few civilians still live within the cities, but the ones that do, do what they can to keep the essentials functioning for the army: water, plumbing, heating, and so on.
Ledale is part of a region of the world that employs a local language in addition to the common one. It is a romantic-sounding language similar to French. Ledale has access to a vast network of mines and farms, which makes their economy relatively strong through trade of rare metals and gems, and consumable products. The Head of State conducts socialist political view on most issues. The city is frequently attacked due to its proximity to the Dark Zone, but it is so far manageable by the United Defense Forces stationed there.
Alagos is a very militaristic city-state. Its Head of State is far-right leaning in most political issues. Most of the migrants that the city receive are instantly sent to Stoneridge or Oakridge. The latter does not mind, but the former is not as accepting, which has caused a bit of enmity between Alagos and Stoneridge. Alagosโ military force consists mostly of State Security forces and Special Operations. United Defense Force presence is minimal in the city. Alagosโ economy is mostly based on trading of factory products.
Stoneridge is a city of miners and workers. They have a very disciplined culture and value every man and womanโs contribution to society. The cityโs Head of State focuses on strong workersโ unions and minimum presence of capitalistic profit. Being able to export a multitude of raw and rare materials, Stoneridge is a relatively wealth city, but their armed defenses are lackluster. They put their faith in the mountain ridge that protects them from the west.
Hundale and the far southern towns are the warm, paradise locations of the world. The sun shines all throughout the year, and warm winds and water attract people from afar. Their economy is almost solely based on tourism, which still holds during wartime. Soldiers on leave travel there to enjoy all the things the city and towns have to offer in terms of entertainment and food. The Head of State of Hundale is one of the most impartial political figures of the world, taking no radical stance on any issue.
Dunwall is the great whaling capital of the world. Its economy is purely based on processing and exporting of Whale Oil. Dunwall is currently the wealthiest city-state in the world, Stoneridge coming far behind as the second. Its Head of State drives a deeply capitalistic ideology, which puts the city at sour terms with Stoneridge. Dunwall is also the United Defense Forceโs primary testing location for experimental weapons.
Wrona and Odesea share a local language similar to Mandarin. These are cities that share a highly spiritual culture. Their economy is based on farming and export of ingredients for food and Catalysts. They have a standing treaty that binds them as one state. Their main contribution to the United Defense Force is naval construction.
Anatolia is one of the most remote city-states of the world. It lives under cold and harsh conditions throughout the whole year. Its former state shared a local language similar to Russian, and the inhabitants of Anatolia still speak it. The Head of State has totalitarian views on most issues, but does contribute immensely to the United Defense Force. Anatolia trains some of the most hardened soldiers of the world.
Tenebra is the foremost export of timber. The city is surrounded by lush forests that are taken care of and harvested delicately. Its Head of State is very environment friendly, and is therefore not on good terms with the Anatolian government due to its focus on factories. In the past, the two states have been in bloody conflict with each other, so there is also cultural hate between them, but they have temporarily set aside these grievances for the sake of the JENOVA crisis.
Juno is the home of the JENOVA Project. After it was shut down, it was rumored to have moved to Dunwall. Junoโs Head of State is a military man, a veteran from the initial contact with the infected creatures. He is one of the best military tacticians around, thus a valuable asset to the United Defense Force. Juno shares a local language similar to German. As the city is in close proximity with the Dark Zone, they focus on militaristic pursuits and rely on economic support from other city-states.
The map only shows towns and cities still standing and able to defend themselves. The indicator for the Stigma does not show intensity of infection. It might be that traces of it can be found in nature, but otherwise the area is unaffected. As a rule of thumb, the infection is stronger the further north and closer to Crater it gets.
Oakridge is a city-state located near the southern shores of Cetra. Its Head of State holds a centrist-political view on most issues. Being one of the largest and wealthiest city-states of the continent, it naturally attracts a lot of people and business. Its military academy of the same name is renowned all over the world. Oakridgeโs economy is primarily based on export of Whale Oil, soldiers for the United Defense Force, and experimental technology.
Paron is a city-state located in the midlands of Cetra. It currently has the highest density of refugees, comparable to Juno of Libra. However, the it is only a gateway city, so the refugees rarely linger. Paron is also the United Defense Forceโs primary forward base of operations, due to its proximity to the infection. The cityโs economy has been frozen and relies heavily on donations and imports from other city-states. However, there is a mine close by that is rich in rare metals.
Accadia and Insomnia are the only city-states in the northern regions of both continents still able to defend their borders from the infection and creatures. Communication with these cities are scarce, but they do send a status report to the United Defense Force once every two weeks. Supplies to these cities are air-dropped once a week. These two cities are heavily reinforced and function as bunkers behind enemy lines. Few civilians still live within the cities, but the ones that do, do what they can to keep the essentials functioning for the army: water, plumbing, heating, and so on.
Ledale is part of a region of the world that employs a local language in addition to the common one. It is a romantic-sounding language similar to French. Ledale has access to a vast network of mines and farms, which makes their economy relatively strong through trade of rare metals and gems, and consumable products. The Head of State conducts socialist political view on most issues. The city is frequently attacked due to its proximity to the Dark Zone, but it is so far manageable by the United Defense Forces stationed there.
Alagos is a very militaristic city-state. Its Head of State is far-right leaning in most political issues. Most of the migrants that the city receive are instantly sent to Stoneridge or Oakridge. The latter does not mind, but the former is not as accepting, which has caused a bit of enmity between Alagos and Stoneridge. Alagosโ military force consists mostly of State Security forces and Special Operations. United Defense Force presence is minimal in the city. Alagosโ economy is mostly based on trading of factory products.
Stoneridge is a city of miners and workers. They have a very disciplined culture and value every man and womanโs contribution to society. The cityโs Head of State focuses on strong workersโ unions and minimum presence of capitalistic profit. Being able to export a multitude of raw and rare materials, Stoneridge is a relatively wealth city, but their armed defenses are lackluster. They put their faith in the mountain ridge that protects them from the west.
Hundale and the far southern towns are the warm, paradise locations of the world. The sun shines all throughout the year, and warm winds and water attract people from afar. Their economy is almost solely based on tourism, which still holds during wartime. Soldiers on leave travel there to enjoy all the things the city and towns have to offer in terms of entertainment and food. The Head of State of Hundale is one of the most impartial political figures of the world, taking no radical stance on any issue.
Dunwall is the great whaling capital of the world. Its economy is purely based on processing and exporting of Whale Oil. Dunwall is currently the wealthiest city-state in the world, Stoneridge coming far behind as the second. Its Head of State drives a deeply capitalistic ideology, which puts the city at sour terms with Stoneridge. Dunwall is also the United Defense Forceโs primary testing location for experimental weapons.
Wrona and Odesea share a local language similar to Mandarin. These are cities that share a highly spiritual culture. Their economy is based on farming and export of ingredients for food and Catalysts. They have a standing treaty that binds them as one state. Their main contribution to the United Defense Force is naval construction.
Anatolia is one of the most remote city-states of the world. It lives under cold and harsh conditions throughout the whole year. Its former state shared a local language similar to Russian, and the inhabitants of Anatolia still speak it. The Head of State has totalitarian views on most issues, but does contribute immensely to the United Defense Force. Anatolia trains some of the most hardened soldiers of the world.
Tenebra is the foremost export of timber. The city is surrounded by lush forests that are taken care of and harvested delicately. Its Head of State is very environment friendly, and is therefore not on good terms with the Anatolian government due to its focus on factories. In the past, the two states have been in bloody conflict with each other, so there is also cultural hate between them, but they have temporarily set aside these grievances for the sake of the JENOVA crisis.
Juno is the home of the JENOVA Project. After it was shut down, it was rumored to have moved to Dunwall. Junoโs Head of State is a military man, a veteran from the initial contact with the infected creatures. He is one of the best military tacticians around, thus a valuable asset to the United Defense Force. Juno shares a local language similar to German. As the city is in close proximity with the Dark Zone, they focus on militaristic pursuits and rely on economic support from other city-states.
C U R R E N T I S S U E S
The Stigma is spreading and the Dark Zone expanding. No significant progress to counteract this threat has been made on the biological or military level. However, experimental weaponry that has potential to secure progress is being developed. Manufacturing and deployment of these weapons require considerable amounts of Whale Oil, which puts strain on energy reserves for other technologies and the whaling industry.
Increasing number of refugees migrating from the Dark Zone proximity. Southern states experiencing economic and social stress due to influx of people. Unsanctioned Death Squads executing those they believe to be infected. Isolated incidents of Spawn metamorphoses within major cities add to general unrest. Domestic protection puts strain on United Defense Force resources.
States increasingly consolidate resources in major cities. The cities have become isolated governing bodies in order to prevent economic stress should one succumb to the war. However, political tension has emerged between individual cities. The success of a city depends largely on nearby resources and its politicians. Regular currencies have dropped in value in favor of Whale Oil, food and water, armed protection, and other resources. Use of a particularly rare metal (Gil) as currency increasing.
Increasing number of refugees migrating from the Dark Zone proximity. Southern states experiencing economic and social stress due to influx of people. Unsanctioned Death Squads executing those they believe to be infected. Isolated incidents of Spawn metamorphoses within major cities add to general unrest. Domestic protection puts strain on United Defense Force resources.
States increasingly consolidate resources in major cities. The cities have become isolated governing bodies in order to prevent economic stress should one succumb to the war. However, political tension has emerged between individual cities. The success of a city depends largely on nearby resources and its politicians. Regular currencies have dropped in value in favor of Whale Oil, food and water, armed protection, and other resources. Use of a particularly rare metal (Gil) as currency increasing.
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