_It has been more than three centuries since the conclusion of the Interstellar War. The Solarian League and the Bel’Kian Concordance have finally laid down arms in favor of peaceful coexistence. Unfortunately since so much has been destroyed and burned to the ground, along with bad animosity in the air, the seeds of a new conflict are beginning to grow. To prevent another bloody war, the two unions have pooled their resources into forming the Galactic Coalition, a military alliance and peacekeeping force 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 colonies._ _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 League and the Concordance 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. An old prophesy is about to make history repeat itself; a cycle of which was bathed in oceans of blood_. In this setting, you have volunteered (either at your own choice, ordered, 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:**](http://www.total-manga.com/images/Wallpaper/FR-8-2486-B/briareos.jpg) 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:**](https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/0b/35/23/0b3523cbcae4df82ec838581b27389fa.jpg) 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:**](http://m.99wallpaper.com/images/7_1851/Sci%20Fi_warrior_023.jpg) 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 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:**](http://www.wallpaperup.com/103950/Technics_Face_Robot_Fantasy_Girls_cyborg_cyborgs_robot_robots_sci-fi.html) 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 by humans, 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. The life cycle or reproduction of a Hephaeton is arguably an odd topic and simply makes them even more complex on that note. Without any reliable digital storage, a Hephaeton’s existence becomes an extremely brief 20 years that normally requires a mental wipe to continue their lifespan. Formats clear a Hephaeton’s mind of stored information or memories to make room for more experiences. When they literally have no more room to store or process thought or information, a Heaphaeton may spiral into a sometimes violent degradation until they are shattered or preferably no more. With a Cyber Brain however, a Hephaeton may store more information and experiences, allowing a more consistent thought process to that of a sapient organism. This dramatically increases a Hephaeton’s existence to that of several centuries without needing another format. Reproduction is completely unnecessary to Haphaetons given that they are in a sense immortal following a consistent flow of formats. But if desired, they may create a new Hephaeton based on a template of their own image. This new Hephaetony may also carry the same information or experiences the original provides to it. [**Cen’turi:**](http://thehdwall.com/elves-men-warrior-armor-fantasy-girls-elf-magic-sci-fi-wallpaper-for-android-49433/) An interstellar alien race first encountered by Humanity several millennia ago. Despite their lack of the colonies, the Cen’turi easily compensate for this with their massive fleets, making them somewhat nomadic. Upon further interaction with the race, it was found the Cen’turi made up in different kingdoms or Septs as they are known by. Each Sept owns one or two planets at a time. 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 (or even combat) prey or feel the emotions of other life forms. It’s perhaps because of this unique ability that the Cen’turi race as a whole are characterized as natural empaths. [**Kotorians:**](http://fc05.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2013/006/2/7/bahamut_dragon_hero_normal_by_namesjames-d5qm9ld.jpg) 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. During the Interstellar War, Kotorians fought on equal footing with the ATC’s own elite Ascended; a testament to their battle prowess. Curiously to most, individual Kotorians may be seen either in public or on the battlefield being accompanied by one or more life forms called a Kahmali. These small semi-biped insect-like aliens, though are incapable of speech, are usually described by humans as something reminiscent to that of a dog; they are obedient, playful, caring…And capable of wielding a firearm in combat. Kahmali normally share an almost symbiotic bond with their Kotorian masters and will fiercely intervene if the life of their companion becomes at risk. **[Vexi:](http://fc00.deviantart.net/fs71/f/2014/108/2/f/reptilian_insectoid_alien_by_riyami-d5rtee5.jpg)** 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 if 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 is due in part of their short lifespans that unfortunately last only for a few centuries to which understandably justifies the need for offspring in time. Because of this, it’s no surprise that most Vexi are rather optimistic and humble. However, there has been a rise in longer lifespans beginning to sprout amongst the Vexi. Though genetic manipulation has only prolonged their natural existence, it have been confirmed that genes from other alien partners have given new offspring longer life expectancies. [**Drakkas:**](http://fc07.deviantart.net/fs70/i/2014/317/4/f/_x__in_an_instant_by_dari_dari-d869w40.jpg) Once a race in terrible decline due to poverty and war, now since uplifted by the ATC 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 and distrust about the species. Their naturally alluring figure however is matched to that of the pheromones they consciously give off, affecting anyone’s sense of judgment unless given the proper mental implants. If that isn’t deceptive enough; hidden underneath their long hair is a tendril connected to their skull and spine that stabs into their prey, injecting the unfortunate with neurotoxins, quickly killing them. It’s almost as if nature wanted the Drakkas to be the clever assassins they clearly are now. Despite their bad reputation, the Drakkas are a very social species and favor the company of others. In fact, they are perhaps the most friendly compared to other races if you are willing to forget the fact one may want to kill you. [**Oun’mai:**](http://fc03.deviantart.net/fs71/f/2010/312/9/9/grey_by_batchix-d32h2zx.jpg) 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 millennium though to 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. Members of the Oun'mai race usually live a life of elitism; its rather common for Oun'mai to look down upon others either from lower classes or races. This is even more so up the hierarchy tree into the nobility and even the military branches too. While in combat, most Oun'mai make use of their psionics while in fray; of course this is also on top of their weaponized battle suits they don, practically making them unstoppable. **Weapon Projectiles:** **-Ballistics:** Due to low production costs and cheep manufacturing, ballistic based weaponry are widespread despite the obviousness of its archaic and crude nature. However recent advancements in the simple design returned these weapons back into military hands but notably lesser forms are still used publicly. **-- Needle:** Based on penetration, needle round is deadly and known to “bypass” personnel armor as if it were like paper. Even if the round fails to penetrate, it will break down on impact and fragment anything in the vicinity. **-- Slug:** Simple, crude, and yet devastating. These oversized mini rockets have been known to punch holes through soft targets usually with very bloody results. A single slug has been confirmed to overwhelm common kinetic defenses due to its huge impact delivery. **-- Gyrojet:** Also called “smart rounds”; gyrojets are miniature warheads capable of tracking a designated target by the operator. Though the firing arcs may not follow a target completely, keeping the crosshairs steady will ensure a hit. **- Energy:** Though complex in design, energy based weaponry are powerful and are commonly favored amongst most military forces, especially when the energy cells that power these weapons are capable of self regeneration. **-- Energy Pulse:** Energy Pulse weapons fire brief high-energy pulses or bolts into a target, delivering excellent impact but also deadly heat damage as well. Since charge rates are so low, more bolts can be quickly fired off in succession. **-- Particle Beam:** However not known for extreme rate of fire, Particle Beams or nonetheless powerful. Upon discharge, these beams slam their target with kinetic energy, blasting away with a high stream of subatomic particles powerful enough to carve through most materials. **-- Plasma:** High-energy ionized gas that can burn or even melt targets due to their extreme heat. Since plasma can be manipulated in multiple aspects, super-heated beams and bolts are common projectile discharges. **-- Anti-Matter:** Primarily used to power star ships as they travel through space, but has since found its way into military applications. Antimatter incredibly powerful against any target but very risky however to use; it doesn't take too much Antimatter to trigger a large explosion. **Close Range Weapons:** With the introduction of active personal defense systems, melee weaponry; once believed to be crude and archaic tools of primitive warfare were reintroduced as a response to this. Melee weapons are meant to bypass these defenses that would normally block most ranged projectiles. **- HF (High-Frequency) Blades/Disrupter Blades:** Extremely deadly blades capable of slicing through most know materials. HF Blades resonate at very high frequencies; so much so, this causes the molecular bonds of a target to weaken, allowing the blade to easily cut through, no matter how dense the target is. Disrupter blades are capable of performing the same feat by generating destabilizing fields. **- Gravity Hammers:** Though rather unwieldy, gravity hammers are extremely effective against armored targets. These monstrous weapons project kinetic pulses upon swinging the weapon and upon application, the target is flattened completely. It’s advised to have very adequate protection while using a cumbersome weapon like this. **- Pile Bunker:** An odd weapon to see being wielded by anyone. Usually seen in construction and mounted on bipedal machines, pile bunkers are effective in penetrating armored targets and damaging the internal infrastructure. It is completely lethal against soft targets, usually impaling them. **EDIF Defense System (Energy Dispersion and Interception Field):** Though cover provides the best defense, its sometimes best to abandon that cover while under heavy fire to advance or retreat if need be. The EDIF Defense System provides an all-around protective bastion around the user, absorbing or intercepting incoming fire. While handy as that may sound, it doesn't last forever unfortunately as the system can be overtasked with too much fire and the entire field can collapse, temporarily making the user vulnerable. **NanoMass Technology:** Nanite technology has come a long way since its development several millennia ago and has since been applied to numerous fields. NanoMass in its neutral state looks nothing more than a small chrome cube. Once programmed however, it can be permanently turned into almost anything given the essential resources. It’s because of this fact that NanoMass is highly regulated and only given to the proper facilities and users in order to keep it from being used in the wrong hands. Further developments of the technology have added on the ability to reconfigure the shape of an already programmed object into a much smaller form, making it easier to wield and transport until deployed. Byproducts of this development: **- Assemblers:** Though most NanoMass devices are normally programmed to retain their form, the Assembler however was developed to alter its form more than once after programmed. From civil to military purposes, Assemblers have seen widespread use throughout the known galaxy. Utilized through the use of a NVP Suit (and can be located anywhere on the suit), the Assembler shifts modes based on the user’s neurological commands, allowing for efficiency and quick response times. Though civilian purposes may vary, the Assembler militarily wise can be programmed to transform into one to two types of weapons. **- NVP Suit (Neurological Variable Performance):** Capable of being deployed at will, the NVP Suit materializes around the user, creating a first, second, and third line of armor and nano-weave. With a EDIF System built-in as well, the NVP Suit becomes a rapid response defense for those using it. The suit also assists with sensor tracking and life stability, helping the user out significantly in a combat situation. If the user’s life suddenly becomes at risk, the suit will lock up in an attempt to prevent or reduce any more damage until they can be safely evacuated. **- Symbiote:** Unknown to many of who developed this “living” NanoMass however its first appearance was used by that of the Ascendant soldiers of the Sphere armies. The Symbiote has been described as some variation of the NVP Suit but capable of faster simultaneous functions and processes. Since the Symbiotes are so carefully guarded by the Spheres, it is assumed that only the Ascendants may utilize them. **Cyber Link/Port:** A type of implant or accessory that allows the user to access and interface with computer terminals and other devices via the brain. The node itself is used by most people nowadays normally as portable phones or computers. Even by most militaries they can be extraordinarily tactical and useful in most situations as this provides a sort of cyber telepathy with multiple units. **Cyberverse:** A seemingly never ending sea of digital information, now expanding over thousands of star systems broadcastws by perhaps millions of satellite nodes through FTL communication. Jump Gates: Seen orbiting around the most active colonies or planets, the monstrous Jump Gates are capable of near-instantaneous travel from one star system to another. Based on the target destination, travel through these gates may take only several minutes to even an hour; insanely fast when compared to warp travel. **FTL (Faster Than Light) Drives:** For all space faring races, the means to travel through space is a demanding requirement for any interstellar empire. The most common form of FTL travel is through the Warp Drive, a propulsion system that allows travel between two points in a reduced amount of time. This is accomplished by a warp field or bubble that encompasses a vessel, pulling it through slipspace until the vessel reaches its destination. Another FTL propulsion system is the Jump Drive, a recent development in the technology found on enormous star ships capable of almost instantaneous travel between star systems. This powerful drive is usually found on motherships, allowing it to pull not only the vessel but everything within the warp field; very convenient for ferrying an entire fleet quickly into disputed territory. **VBMPs/VBMWPs (Variable Bipedal Mobile (Weapons) Platform:** Filling in the most laborious of job descriptions, the towering VBMPs can be found from construction to military applications. Loosely biped or quadruped in appearance, these mechs or mecha as they are sometimes called (preferably as VBMP is hard to say in conversation repeatedly) are normally capable of transforming into compact vehicular-like modes for fast transit or additional functions and fire power. **Psionics:** Strange paranormal abilities called Psionics allow a user to manipulate the matter and energy around them. Though most races have evolved enough to the point where Psionics can be wielded, there are those that simply cannot access them, where they are born from technology or due to the mental makeup of the subject; Hephaetons, Drakkas, Kotorians, and Vexi unfortunately may not tap into these abilities. All Psionic abilities exist in the real world, and usually most individuals can become a Psionic though they will need the knowledge and proper training in order to use them. Psionic users are categorized in specific classes based on their overall power and their abilities. E Class Psionics don't have many abilities and are not that strong but they are the most mentally stable. S Class Psionics are the highest ranked; usually having many abilities and are naturally very powerful but they do run the risk of mental instability. To ensure mental control, Psionics are required to be in-fitted with neural implants to avoid aggressive mental breakdowns. **Galactic Coalition:** The conflict between the Bel’Kian Concordance and the Solarian League left much of the galaxy in post-war chaos and disputes were unfortunately still high even after both sides officially conceded from future wars. To maintain order and peace while the affected territories recovered, a joint military force comprised of units provided and funded by both powers was created to settle these disputes and put down any rogue splinters groups still sour regarding the end of the conflict. **Bel’Kian Concordance:** Believed to have been around for more than a millennium while other powers were still growing, the Bel’Kian (supposedly meaning “Timeless” in Oun’mai tongue) Concordance ruled over a very sizable portion of the galaxy, nearly being that to an entire quarter of its stars. The Concordance is seen as a pact between several alien races; most notably the Oun’mai Empire, the Kotorian Stratocracy, and the Vexi owned Vexthuul Union along with other minor races as well. The Bel’Kian Concordance was established under the proposal for collective integration where each power serves as part of this “government alliance”. The Vexthuul Union handles civil growth and technological advancement while the Kotorian Stratocracy severs as law enforcement and the military bulk. Finally, the Oun’mai deals with civil affairs and government regulation. Many years before the Interstellar War, the Concordance began to see a sudden growth in human population as the ATC’s colonies began open conflict with one another. Most of the human citizens were refugees, fleeing the violent infighting. With the ATC seemingly unaware of these developments, the Concordance began to send peace keeping forces in hopes of mitigating the conflict. Though bumpy at first, peace talks were gradually becoming successful but territorial and ideology disputes were still at large. It was not before long that the Solarian League finally intervened and swiftly pacified most of the region. Unfortunately due to lack of communication, the Concordance peaceful keepers were caught in the crossfire during some of the ATC’s military campaign in the sectors as they fought the rebelling colonies. Admittedly, the conflicts were quickly at a end but the Concordance had see much bloodshed in the process and many of the nearby ATC colonies were under civil unrest. With so much going on at the too close the political borders, the Concordance felt that the only option was to intervene as well. Regrettably, when finally met with the clustered forces of the Solarian League in the region, war quickly broke out. **Solarian League:** Recently formed centuries before the Interstellar War, the Solarian League was previously a mutual alliance between the ATC (Advanced Transhuman Confederation), Cen’turi Cepts, and other distinct alien races. When the distant colonies of the ATC began feuding with one another, this not only alerted the ATC government but also the Bel’Kian Concordance whose territories were nearby by the conflict. When the Concordance began providing support to the seceding colonies and seeping influence deeper into ATC space and the surrounding sectors, the Solarian League forces (though mainly the ATC’s own) pushed forward into the disputed colonies to quell the turmoil. Through coordinated strikes and peace talks, much of the colonies were reclaimed within a few years (either through military action or willing cooperation) though there remained plenty that still persisted in rebelling or wanting simple independence from any group. Eventually, the majority of the conflicts had ceased and only a handful of isolated incidents were ever present. A year later however, the remaining few colonies that still pursued political and military disputes suddenly began one more final push into the ATC’s now controlled territory. The situation escalated further when the colonies were backed by the now fully committed Bel’Kian Concordance, immediately starting the Interstellar War. **The Sphere Armies:** Aptly named for the giant spherical vessels that ferry thousands of warships and Ascended soldiers through the known territory of ATC space. Aside from the ATC's own astronomical interstellar forces, the Spheres act autonomously (however taking orders directly from the government), acting as a safeguard as they patrol the ATC's sectors. In times of war, whether it is internally or externally, the Spheres are deployed to pacify or to totally dominate any confirmed threats. Since the requirement for recruitment into the Spheres is so extreme, their numbers are easily lacking in comparison to most other military forces. However, this is a matter of quality or quantity as the Ascended that are created by the Spheres can be individually compared to a large squad or platoon. Because of this, the Spheres are considered an elite or special force. Currently active Spheres: **- Highland Wolves:** Bearing a raider motif with influences of Nordic and Celtic lore, the Highland Wolves center their tactics on mobility to outmaneuver an opponent and strike where they are most vulnerable through aggressive reconnaissance and guerrilla warfare. Founded by Lord Varrick. **- Imperial Battlements:** Based on the idea of fortifying a position, breaking assaults, and destroying an adversary with superb organization; donned in powered armor and walling their bastions with impenetrable combat shields, the Imperial Battlements are attested to that of a living fortress. Founded by Imperator Novia Auxientia **- Blades of Kagutsuchi:** Considered the largest of the Sphere Armies, the Blades of Kagutsuchi are well known their superb organization, military professionalism, and deadly tactical decisiveness. Through the years of enhanced simulated training regimes and mediation, the Blades have become incredibly well refined warriors; nearly unmatched in terms of skill. Founded by Fire Shogun Hiroto Minamoto **- Heaven’s Judicators:** Striking from the skies from their jump-jet assisted wings into the thickest of enemy formations and positions, the Judicators brave the worse any opponent has to offer with strong hearts and indomitable courage…If not insanity. The Judicators favor shock tactics and impressive firepower to mentally break down their foes and thus shattering their lines. Founded by Grand Marshal Alexander.

Geez that's a lot.