It has been more than three centuries since the conclusion of the Interstellar War. The Solarian Confederation and the Bel’Kian Triad have finally laid down arms in favor for peaceful coexistence. Unfortunately since so much was destroyed and burned to the ground, along with bad animosity in the air between the outlying colonies, the seeds of a new conflict are beginning to grow once more. To prevent another bloody war, the two unions have pooled their resources into forming the Galactic Coalition; a military alliance and peacekeeping force made to prevent future conflicts from ever occurring between the two territories.
As the known galaxy slowly recovers, an alarming string of vanishing colonies begin to arise without rhyme or reason to their disappearances. Even more troubling are the scouts that were sent to investigate this eerie development have not since returned. Worse is the patterns of these vanishings have been reported from all corners of the galaxy...And slowly treading inward, closing in on the more populated planets and stations.
The Coalition, now fearing an incursion from an outside threat, has begun to develop an expeditionary force; a well funded and well armed flotilla comprised of the best minds and guns both the Confederation and the Triad has to offer. Since the importance of this mission is so great, the Coalition has also openly offered positions for independent and freelance groups as well to ensure total success.
…But days before the expeditionary fleet can depart; a new discovery is made from the ruins of an old facility once owned by the Celestials, an ancient race that has long since been extinct…And what was found could very well shake the foundation of the known galaxy.
In this setting, you have volunteered (either at your own choice or against your will) to take part in a large expedition to find the truth as to why so many colonies have suddenly gone dark.
You may create a character from one of these several different races or you can create one your self. (Note, you do do wish to create a new species, please contact me for review and approval)
Humans:
Through many scientific advances, humanity was able to forge and impressive interstellar empire, encompassing hundreds of worlds into its collective. Of these advances, human lifespans have since increased fivefold, the most deadly of diseases or disorders cured, the development of Jump-Gate networks, and more. With the common practice of genetic manipulation and cybernetic enhancements, a new wave a human sub-species emerged:
- Machinas:
Humans who have heavily modified their bodies through cybernetic implants. Because of this, Machina commonly share a cyborg-like appearance with the remainder of their natural flesh sometimes exposed or hidden underneath their endoskeletons. Though Machinas are almost common sight, they are usually found in great numbers deeper into human space.
- Chimeras:
Though arguably the least human looking in appearance and almost considered a separate species, Chimera are humans who feature physical traits of any animal in their genetic makeup. The rise of Chimeras first started off with animal gene splicing being introduced to a willing number of the human populace that had since been within the trillions.
- Ascended:
No one is born an Ascended; only those who have proven and given themselves willingly to the one of the nomadic Sphere armies may become an Ascended. Ascended are essentially transhuman super soldiers, heavily modified both genetically and cybernetically in becoming effective elite combat personnel. These enhancements sharply increase cellular regeneration, pain tolerance, reflexes, and mental processing power, giving Ascended an unmatched advantage on the battlefield.
Those who have become an Ascended are sometimes considered technological demi-gods. This impression is not only due to their unnatural combat abilities but also to their form of immortality as well. Though an Ascended may fall in battle, they may still be recovered and brought back to have their body regenerated or re-cloned if necessary. This process is only possible is the Ascended’s Mind Shell if intact upon recovery.
Since the end of the Interstellar War, almost any member of most races may become an Ascended.
Hephaetons:
The development of AIs has been a long and burdening road to perfecting a true self-identifying sapient intelligence. Since recognized as an actual race, AI’s or Hephaetons as they are now called coexist side-by-side along with their biological counterparts. These digital beings normally reside in sync within the Cyberverse but outside the digital realm, Hephaetons may manifest themselves through portable holographic projectors, allowing them to interact with the real world and its inhabitants. If desired, a Hephaeton may also choose to be installed to an artificial body, allowing a wide range of simulated biological functions and experiences.
Cen’turi:
An interstellar alien race first encountered by Humanity several millennia ago. However human-like they appear, Cen’turi display a wide variety of skin colors amongst its members and they exhibit two antennae at the top of their foreheads. These antennae can pick up on electromagnetic waves and the harmonic resonance produced by creatures, allowing them to track prey or feel the emotions of other life forms. Cen’turi behavior seems to stem from this in a way as they are usually seen as calm and relaxed in most occasions. It’s because of this that most Cen’turi are characterized as empaths, which is very likely given their knowledge of psionics.
Kotorians:
Known for their unique adaptability to most environments, Kotorians are naturally tough and fit, very strong, and surprisingly fast. Though typically saurian in appearance, branching genes have revealed some to mirror amphibian and partial avian aspects as well. Amongst the other races, the Kotorians are identified as a militaristic culture; consistently training troops, manufacturing fleets, and always looking for action.
The majority of the Kotorian race is usually taught how to fight at a very young age and those who push forward to become soldiers are trained and conditioned though harsh exercises and scenarios. These regimens eventually bear the finest warriors in the galaxy and an armed Kotorian on the field of battle is never a laughing matter.
Vexi:
An intriguing race of insectoids who seek knowledge of anything and everything around them, even if it leads them to not-so-good results. The Vexi race philosophy is almost entirely built on the foundation of scientific discovery in numerous fields such as genetics, astronomy, and even botany for starters. It’s really a wonder there is a single member of the Vexi that isn’t highly educated.
On an odd note, sexual reproduction has been observed to be rather high amongst its members and with that of other races. This may be due in part of their short lifespans of less than a few centuries which understandably justifies the need for offspring in time. Some however believe it’s more than likely some form secretly guarded libido due to repeated practices.
Drakkas:
Once a race in terrible decline due to poverty and war, now since uplifted by Humans into the interstellar community. Usually the sight of a Drakkas may give off an attractive or a weary feeling to most people, of which created mixed opinions about the species.
Their naturally alluring figure however is matched to that of the pheromones they give off, affecting one’s judgment and breaking concentration. Once they have their prey grasps, the killing is then performed as a tendril hidden underneath their long hair stabs into their prey, injecting the unfortunate with neurotoxins, quickly killing them.
Oun’mai:
If there was a race that has been around longer than anyone else and had a broader scope of the creation of the universe and its mysteries, it would be the Oun’mai. It has been speculated that the race of lanky grey skinned humanoids have been around for more than ten millennia though the annoyance of many, they don’t give any hints as to the age of their empire. What is however obvious is their long lasting lifespans that confirmed to have stretched out over 800 years and the fact they are highly adept in psionics as well to the point where telepathy is the preferred form of speech to them.
