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Stellar Horizon: The Echo Protocol

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Stellar Horizon: The Echo Protocol

Here it is folks!

@ErosSense@Queen Arya@LC@Theyra

You can place sheets in the character tab and then expect a PM from me.

@ChronicleMan@Skwint

If you're still with us, continue taking your time with your CS. If you have any questions I'm here.

Stellar Horizon: The Echo Protocol

_{Stellar Horizon: The Echo Protocol}

Two hundred years ago humanity lived on a singular planet known as (Prime) Earth. Humanity would have their first encounter with an alien then; a microbe brought by a meteor that destroyed an entire city and began poisoning the air. Nations came together, knowing that they would have to work together or all die. Ship-construction for space-exploration began, with the construction of FTL (Faster-Than-Light) technology being developed as well. Once the first five vessels were assembled the greatest minds on Earth were sent aboard with the mission of colonizing planets suitable for human life, and terraforming planets that weren’t. The mission was an ultimate success, and with newfound research and technology, was able to cure humanity and save Prime Earth. Humans now serve as a powerhouse within the galaxy, despite being one of the youngest species to exist. This brings us here, to the modern day:

The crew of the Stellar Horizon, a state-of-the-art exploration vessel, is tasked with investigating a strange anomaly detected deep within the uncharted regions of space. This anomaly, known only as “The Echo,” is a mysterious phenomenon that has baffled scientists and stargazers for decades. It emits inexplicable signals, seemingly a distress call, originating from a region previously thought to be devoid of life and technological presence.

The Stellar Horizon’s mission is simple: Travel to “The Echo’s” coordinates, investigate the source, and report findings.

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_{Resource Centre}

• Races:

  Humanity - Human History provided above. A powerhouse in the galaxy, with rapid-breeding and quick innovations, humans can now be found on almost every corner of the galaxy explored.
  
  Telepaths - An inexplicable, convergent, evolution that appears in many races amongst the galaxy. In humanity, telepathic abilities can emerge at any-given day and time. Basic telepathy abilities include reading surface thoughts upon touch, as well as communicating non-verbally so long as no physical barriers are in the way. As such, they are highly vulnerable to sensory deprivation and overloads such as bright flashes or sudden loud noises. Telepaths can train to further enhance their powers and unlock new ones, such as Telekinesis.
  
  Most telepaths in human colonies are met with general disdain, with stereotypes ranging from invasions of privacy and manipulation. It wouldn’t be uncommon for a Telepath to go missing or be found hurt somewhere, with no questions asked.
• Technology:

  FTL (Faster Than Light) - Humanity’s primary form of traversing space. Despite the name, the light-speed barrier is still in full effect. FTL technology accelerates ships up to the speed of light, before taking stored energy and creating wormholes between two sets of coordinates.
• Factions:

  ExoGenesis - A company known for their long-haul space freighters, ExoGenesis has made a name for themselves in the past ten years regarding their new tenures into space-exploration. Recently, they uncoded one of “The Echo” signals and charted a course for their crew, continuing to take steps being the major conglomerate of all space factions.
  
  Interstellar Exploration Federation - One of humanity’s first space-exploration companies that stood the test of time and controversies. The biggest of them all, even if they aren’t as innovative as they used to be, they have the most pull in the industry. In recent years they’ve leaned more towards developing space-weapons and mimicking anti-gravity technology.

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_Cast

• Stellar Horizon

  With an emphasis on autonomy, adaptability, and scientific discovery, this ship is equipped to explore uncharted star systems, engage in scientific research, and ensure the safety of its crew for extended missions. Its sleek design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, combining cutting-edge technology with elegant curves. Powered by a multi-phase hyperdrive engine, the Stellar Horizon utilizes faster-than-light technology, allowing it to cover vast distances in a matter of days or weeks, ensuring long-term energy independence even while exploring the furthest reaches of space. For precise maneuvering within planetary systems or during exploration of asteroid belts, the ship is equipped with highly efficient ion thrusters that minimize fuel consumption while maximizing accuracy.
  
  The ship's internal gravity is controlled by graviton stabilizers, ensuring a stable, Earth-like environment across all decks, allowing for normal movement during missions. The ship is equipped with an advanced life support system that can filter air, recycle water, and maintain temperature regulation. It also has a botanical garden and algae tanks for growing fresh food for the crew. The crew quarters are tailored for their specific comfort on long voyages, the Stellar Horizons also includes a communal dining area, gym, and virtual recreation rooms.
  
  The command center is equipped with a holographic interface that projects star maps, mission objectives, and system diagnostics in real-time. It allows the captain and crew to interact with the ship’s systems via intuitive touch or voice commands.
  
  The ship has a multi-functional scanner array capable of deep space scanning, planet composition analysis, and detecting anomalies. Equipped with the latest in xenobiology technology, the medical bay allows the crew to study alien life forms, plants, and microorganisms. It includes automated sample collection tools and an AI-powered diagnostic system to help identify potential hazards or breakthroughs. The medical bay is equipped with a full range of diagnostic and treatment tools, including stasis tubes and two isolation rooms. Several robotics are mounted onto the wall to assist in surgeries and experiments.
  
  The Stellar Horizon has plasma shields capable of absorbing energy from incoming attacks and dispersing it across the hull. These shields can be raised in moments of danger, but they deplete energy reserves, so their use is carefully calculated. While primarily a scientific vessel, the Stellar Horizon is equipped with pulse cannons capable of firing concentrated bursts of energy to deter hostile encounters or disable enemy vessels. For avoiding potential threats or unwanted attention, the Stellar Horizon has a stealth mode that cloaks its energy signature and minimizes its visibility to scanners.
• Stellar Horizon Crew:

  Captain Amara West: Overseeing the ship's operations, making tough decisions, and maintaining morale. The Captain is the face of authority, mediating conflicts, and representing the crew in diplomatic situations.
  
  Orion (Operational Resource and Intelligence Online Network): This AI is an advanced onboard system that is an integral part of the ship’s operations providing assistance with navigation, data analysis, and even psychological support.
  
  Science Officer Eagin McDorrel: The ship's resident expert on research, discovery, and understanding of alien technologies, ecosystems, and phenomena. Responsible for the health and well-being of the crew, often dealing with both physical injuries and mental health issues.
  
  Engineer PROXIMA: The technical expert who ensures the ship’s systems stay operational, including propulsion, weapons, and life support.
  
  Pilot: Responsible for piloting the ship, navigating space, and handling any space combat or evasive maneuvers. They handle smaller crafts such as shuttles and drones as well.
  
  Security Officer: Responsible for the safety of the crew and the ship, including dealing with threats both internal and external.
  
  Communications Officer Lawrence Williams: Handles all ship-to-ship communication and coordinates with other space stations, colonies, or ships.
  
  *Alternative roles can be provided if more interest is shown*
• NPC:

  ExoGenesis CEO Zara Solstice - A visionary who believes humanity’s future lies in the Echo Region and willing to take any means necessary to make sure his company gets there first. Known for pulling off daring deals and outmaneuvering competitors, Zara never lets his smile falter nor the joy in his voice as he portrays a playful nature. Zara blends boundless optimism with charm, so much so that his passive-aggressive words are almost glossed over.
  
  Intelligence Officer Lucien Nyx - With a gaze always calculating and analyzing, Lucien stands with an air of self-assuredness regardless of what he’s doing. Lucien dresses in tailored-suits but wears a smirk that often suggests he knows more than he’s letting on. Confidence bordering on smugness, it’s never overwhelming but more an acknowledgment to his own intellect and knack for reading people. He has an effortless way of getting others to divulge information, and can be described as ‘moody’ or ‘terrifying’ by those directly under his command.

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_Planets

• Earth Colonies

  Prime Earth - The original earth, much similar to the one we live in now just with better technology. Prime Earth is the most protected and supported human colony. Many factions' main HQ are located here, as well as many production companies. Most humans here live relatively peaceful lives with minimal alien interaction.
  
  Zephyria - While completely identical to Prime Earth, its mass and size is significantly larger with gravity 1.5 times that of Earth. It’s significantly challenging for humans to live without advanced technology to assist with mobility and daily tasks.
  
  Astrid - A frigid world, with surface temperatures averaging around -50°C. Astrid is rich in valuable resources despite the inhospitable surface such as ice oceans, vast glaciers, and month-long snowstorms. Subterranean cities were built here, using advanced technologies to tap into the ocean's resources and create stable living environments. The frozen water reserves, methane, and rare minerals are vital fuel and life-support systems for other colonies.
  
  Verdi - Dense jungles, towering trees, and vibrant ecosystems. Verdi’s thick atmosphere is rich in oxygen, and it supports a vast array of plant and animal life, many of which are completely alien to Earth’s ecosystems. Human habitation is restricted to floating cities built high above the jungles, as the surface below can be dangerous due to massive predators and difficult terrain. These cities use advanced magnetic levitation to hover above the forests, harnessing natural resources from the surrounding environment. The planet's high biodiversity makes it a prime location for biological and ecological studies, as researchers work to create new forms of medicine and bioengineering.
  
  Luna Nova - Luna Nova orbits a gas giant with its moons mostly low-gravity. Human colonies float in large platforms tethered to the moon’s surface, taking advantage of the low gravitational pull to build expansive sky cities. The planet experiences constant and beautiful electromagnetic storms in its upper atmosphere, producing breathtaking auroras while being harnessed for energy.
  
  Xera - Xera is tidally locked to its sun, with one side of the planet always facing the sun, while the other side is in perpetual darkness. The dark side is frozen and barren, the light side experiencing extreme heat. The planet is rich in rare metals and minerals. Many people experiencing hardships come to this planet to work in the mines as a last-resort. It’s almost unheard of for someone to get off the planet unless in the delivery service, but at least the pay is good.
  
  Humanity is colonized on almost every habitable planet in the known galaxy, so feel free to make your own or ride with one of these for an origin spot.
• Echo Region

  N/A

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_Q&A

Posting Expectations?: I’m not a hard-ass on this as everyone has lives. I’m looking for committed players who don’t mind a slow-burn-esque roleplay. I currently work four days in a row, ten hours, with other life commitments so I understand if writing can’t be a top priority. Collaborations between players are heavily encouraged here, and those take time. As long as we’re moving at a healthy rate, I have no problems as I prefer quality over quantity. Once a week may be a minimum if we’re moving the story along, but once again, I’m not a hard-ass.

Can I Die?: In this game, anything is possible. I’m not looking for this to be a slaughter-fest, but this is a deep-space cosmic horror exploration game. Actions have consequences, and that’s what makes it a fun and interesting narrative.

Humans Only?: Sadly, yes. I considered allowing alien races, but for the narrative set, I think humans or majority humans works best for now. ExoGenesis is an Earth based company with the motto, "Seeding the Future, Evolving Humanity Beyond the Stars." after all. I’m not above allowing an exception, however, but it would have to be very convincing and well-written. (Telepath is fine)

Discord? Here.

Your Q&A didn’t answer my question!: Feel free to ask here or PM me. Otherwise, just use common sense. We’ve all RPed before so no need to state the obvious no godmodding, breaking site rules, etc.

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_{Character Sheet}

Once again, my CS isn't pretty. Feel free to customize at will, as long as the necessary information is provided.

CS

Name/Callsign: [Full Name/Alias]

Appearance: [A picture or text description will suffice here]

Age: [25+]

Gender: [M/F/NB]

Race: [Human or Telepath]

Role: [See Crew Roles]

Biography: [History + Personality + What blacklisted you]

Traits: (These are custom made abilities specific to your character ranging from physical skills, to higher-powered weapons and technologies, and unique Telepathic skills beyond surface level. These can be upgraded later on)

Trait 1:
Trait 2:
Trait 3:
Trait 4:
Trait 5:

Equipment List: (Extra things you’d like to emphasis)

Captain Amara West

Name/Callsign: Amara West ‘Captain’ ‘Sir’
Appearance: Amara’s posture exudes confidence as she stands at five-nine with a toned, athletic build. Her warm, light brown eyes compliments her similar skin-tone as they reflect determination and intelligence. Her dark, curly, hair is generally styled into a tight-bun in the back of her head with the occasional curl escaping to frame her face. The curl tends to reach the top of the faded scar on her right cheek, that stretches all the way down to her neck that she tends to hide with her uniform. A dark navy space captain uniform, with silver accents complimented by the utility belt across her waist with multiple tools and a hidden weapon.
Age: 31
Gender: Female
Race: Human
Role: Captain

Biography: Amara West was once a rising star within the Interstellar Exploration Federation. She quickly climbed the ranks due to her tactical brilliance and unshakable resolve, serving with distinction. Her career would take a sudden, mysterious, nosedive when she was blacklisted from multiple space companies. The official reports state she was responsible for a mission going catastrophically wrong, evident by her scars and lack of crew. Now, she’s captain of a new crew and determined to get back at the IEF by successfully carving a new role within ExoGenesis. (You can learn more by interacting)

Traits:

Gift of Gab: Amara has a way with words, and as such, diplomacy. Amara has a higher chance of talking herself out of bad situations, and has a higher chance of succeeding with negotiations in Stellar Horizon’s favor.

Jump For Joy!: Amara has a tailor-made jet-pack designed for faster equip, suitable for her or anyone near her size.

OR-9: A holographic wrist device that allows for remote control of the ship’s systems, as well as encrypted communication.

Plasma Blaster: A modified plasma-baster with high precision. Nothing too fancy, but can practically hurt anyone if regular bullets are ineffective.

Experience: Amara is a highly-experienced Captain that has acquired more-than-appropriate leadership and navigation skills, as well as knowledge of alien tech, due to her time in the IEF.

Equipment List: N/A for now.

Stellar Horizon: The Echo Protocol

@ErosSense@ChronicleMan@Skwint@Theyra

If you use it, I've made a discord for the group. Not a requirement to join, but it is a faster way to get in touch with me if need be.

Stellar Horizon: The Echo Protocol

@Theyra Apologies for the late response. Yes, that's fine. You have full creative freedom to create whatever backstory you like. Space is vast, and humans are colonized on a multitude of planets both apart of Earth as well as independent. However, if you would like more Lore regarding certain factions hinted at in the OP (IEF: Interstellar Exploration Federation, ExoGenesis) to help brainstorm, then I can happily provide it.

Stellar Horizon: The Echo Protocol

@LC Once again, looking great! Whenever you and @Skwint come to a resolution, I'll dm you the extra stuff
(the .308 revolver genuinely made me laugh out loud)

@Theyra Not too late at all! Arya and LC are the only two with solidified spots at the moment as they were directly invited. Feel free to fill out for a spot or if you'd like, go for an alternative role. Here are some alternatives to choose from, or we can work together to create a role closest to what you're already interested in.

Alternative Roles

Cargo Officer - Manages the ship’s supplies and cargo, ensuring everything needed for the mission is stocked and accounted for. Overseeing food, fuel, weapons, and other supplies; ensuring proper storage and distribution; keeping track of inventory and ship’s needs. (Also advisory to the Captain if any trades were to happen with other vessels)

Cybernetic Specialist - Responsible for maintaining and upgrading any cybernetic enhancements or augmentations on the crew. Assisting in medical procedures for cybernetic implants, upgrading or fixing cybernetic devices, ensuring systems are fully functional. (So while the engineer is the tech-savy for the ship, this role is tech-savy more for personal equipment. Works closest with Science Officer and Secruity Officer in maintaining quality of weaponry aboard)

Chef/Cook - Responsible for preparing meals and ensuring the crew’s nutritional needs are met during long space missions. Cooking meals, maintaining food supplies, preparing for exotic alien ingredients (This is really the 'for fun' role of the game, because who doesn't love a chef). Other responsibilities may include discovering different ways to grow crops within space (they would have their own garden) and finding edible food on other planets.

Stellar Horizon: The Echo Protocol

@Skwint someone via discord expressed interest in both science and security, so feel free to brainstorm on either or as well!

@Queen Arya Once again, great CS.

@ChronicleMan Sounds good, lmk if you need anything

Stellar Horizon: The Echo Protocol

@ErosSense Pretty great start so far, I'm loving the backstory.

Race you can place human, as Telepathic abilities can emerge regardless of age. It's possible to be human and then find out you're a telepath later in life. Traits can be revised later, yes, as this section is meant for rough drafts and brainstorming. Don't be afraid to push the notion either, you can definitely have someone lie so good even a telepath has trouble telling the difference. If you want to brainstorm more or need other trait ideas, we can discuss via PM whenever you'd like.

Equipment wise is really anything you'd like to list, a picture of wife and daughter, a regular pistol, etc. minor things but not the end all be all of what you have on you.

edit: Mouthwashing was great and refreshing, so you know exactly the vibes I'm going for.

Stellar Horizon: The Echo Protocol

Hello Everyone,

This is an idea I’ve had circling in my brain for a while, a character-driven story about a ragtag crew exploring space for a company known as ExoGenesis. Think of shows like Firefly and Babylon 5, down to games like Mouthwashing and Stellaris (Yes, this is where I got the name).

Unbeknownst to everyone (or publicly if you so choose), the crew are made up of people who have done horrible things or made career-ending mistakes in their pasts. ExoGenesis, for unknown reasons, have decided to overlook such things in order to recruit them for an exploration mission.

(This game will begin with everyone preparing to leave home and boarding the Stellar Horizon. The mission is contracted for a year and a half, with ExoGenesis being able to extend that time up to two and a half years) (Everyone will be given individual missions via DM upon acceptance as well)
(The beginning will be heavily character-driven encouraging collaborations and characters getting to know one another, before any action kicks in) (Pre-established relations are acceptable as well)

Premise:

The crew of the Stellar Horizon, a state-of-the-art exploration vessel, is tasked with investigating a strange anomaly detected deep within the uncharted regions of space. This anomaly, known only as “The Echo,” is a mysterious phenomenon that has baffled scientists and stargazers for decades. It emits inexplicable signals, seemingly a distress call, originating from a region previously thought to be devoid of life and technological presence.

The Stellar Horizon’s mission is simple: Travel to “The Echo’s” coordinates, investigate the source, and report findings.

Crew Roles:

I’m looking for four to five players to fill these starting roles. If more players show interest, I’m willing to open up more slots and work together to find suitable roles.

GM Controlled:

Captain Amara West: Overseeing the ship's operations, making tough decisions, and maintaining morale. The Captain is the face of authority, mediating conflicts, and representing the crew in diplomatic situations.

Orion (Operational Resource and Intelligence Online Network): This AI is an advanced onboard system that is an integral part of the ship’s operations providing assistance with navigation, data analysis, and even psychological support.

Player Controlled Roles

Starting Five -

Science Officer: The ship's resident expert on research, discovery, and understanding of alien technologies, ecosystems, and phenomena. Responsible for the health and well-being of the crew, often dealing with both physical injuries and mental health issues.

Engineer: The technical expert who ensures the ship’s systems stay operational, including propulsion, weapons, and life support. [Claimed]

Pilot: Responsible for piloting the ship, navigating space, and handling any space combat or evasive maneuvers. They handle smaller crafts such as shuttles and drones as well.

Security Officer: Responsible for the safety of the crew and the ship, including dealing with threats both internal and external.

Communications Officer: Handles all ship-to-ship communication and coordinates with other space stations, colonies, or ships.

-

Q&A:

Posting Expectations?: I’m not a hard-ass on this as everyone has lives. I’m looking for committed players who don’t mind a slow-burn-esque roleplay. I currently work four days in a row, ten hours, with other life commitments so I understand if writing can’t be a top priority. Collaborations between players are heavily encouraged here, and those take time. As long as we’re moving at a healthy rate, I have no problems as I prefer quality over quantity. Once a week may be a minimum if we’re moving the story along, but once again, I’m not a hard-ass.

Can I Die?: In this game, anything is possible. I’m not looking for this to be a slaughter-fest, but this is a deep-space cosmic horror exploration game. Actions have consequences, and that’s what makes it a fun and interesting narrative.

Humans Only?: Sadly, yes. I considered allowing alien races, but for the narrative set, I think humans or majority humans works best for now. ExoGenesis is an Earth based company with the motto, "Seeding the Future, Evolving Humanity Beyond the Stars." after all. I’m not above allowing an exception, however, but it would have to be very convincing and well-written.

However, being a Telepath is acceptable. These powers are a recent emergence within humans and therefore classified as a different race (More on this to come).

Not enough Lore to fully say I’m interested!: This is understandable. I made this to throw the concept out there before I typed everything in full-detail. If there’s anything you need to know Lore wise, feel free to ask and I’ll give a quick summary.

Your Q&A didn’t answer my question!: Feel free to ask here or PM me.

-

Here is a CS with an example to encourage brainstorming. Lord knows my CS are not pretty, so feel free to use any CS template as long as the necessary information is provided.

CS

Name/Callsign: [Full Name/Alias]

Appearance: [A picture or text description will suffice here]

Age: [25+]

Gender: [M/F/NB]

Race: [Human or Telepath]

Role: [See Crew Roles]

Biography: [History + Personality + What blacklisted you]

Traits: (These are custom made abilities specific to your character ranging from physical skills, to higher-powered weapons and technologies, and unique Telepathic skills beyond surface level. These can be upgraded later on)

Trait 1:
Trait 2:
Trait 3:
Trait 4:
Trait 5:

Equipment List: (Extra things you’d like to emphasis)

Captain Amara West

Name/Callsign: Amara West ‘Captain’ ‘Sir’
Appearance: Amara’s posture exudes confidence as she stands at five-nine with a toned, athletic build. Her warm, light brown eyes compliments her similar skin-tone as they reflect determination and intelligence. Her dark, curly, hair is generally styled into a tight-bun in the back of her head with the occasional curl escaping to frame her face. The curl tends to reach the top of the faded scar on her right cheek, that stretches all the way down to her neck that she tends to hide with her uniform. A dark navy space captain uniform, with silver accents complimented by the utility belt across her waist with multiple tools and a hidden weapon.
Age: 31
Gender: Female
Race: Human
Role: Captain

Biography: Amara West was once a rising star within the Interstellar Exploration Federation. She quickly climbed the ranks due to her tactical brilliance and unshakable resolve, serving with distinction. Her career would take a sudden, mysterious, nosedive when she was blacklisted from multiple space companies. The official reports state she was responsible for a mission going catastrophically wrong, evident by her scars and lack of crew. Now, she’s captain of a new crew and determined to get back at the IEF by successfully carving a new role within ExoGenesis. (You can learn more by interacting)

Traits:

Gift of Gab: Amara has a way with words, and as such, diplomacy. Amara has a higher chance of talking herself out of bad situations, and has a higher chance of succeeding with negotiations in Stellar Horizon’s favor.

Jump For Joy!: Amara has a tailor-made jet-pack designed for faster equip, suitable for her or anyone near her size.

OR-9: A holographic wrist device that allows for remote control of the ship’s systems, as well as encrypted communication.

Plasma Blaster: A modified plasma-baster with high precision. Nothing too fancy, but can practically hurt anyone if regular bullets are ineffective.

Experience: Amara is a highly-experienced Captain that has acquired more-than-appropriate leadership and navigation skills, as well as knowledge of alien tech, due to her time in the IEF.

Equipment List: N/A for now.