So anyone want to do collaborations with me? PS yes my sheet is super WIP still. Just been enjoying working on this 24/7. For an idea how detailed the military will be, look at FMMC Equipment and vehicles, and PDF Vehicles.
During the expansionist era of Humanity, probes and ark ships filled the void. These expeditions were funded by then multi trillion dollar corporations and conglomerates, TAA playing the largest role. A gold mine of habitable zones had been found by TAA. Their Xeno-terrestial survey team fascinated by this cluster of stars. Situated in the mid point of the galaxy between the rim and the core. The star cluster was coined "The Meridian Belt", as derived from Earth's imaginary mid point.
Archive photo of a TAA interstellar Probe
Colonial Era
With the discovery of the belt of habitable worlds it wasn't long before TAA set out with an large investment into colonization and exploitation of the resources in the area. The initial settlements were based on all the habitable worlds within the area. Which totaled to 14 star systems, and 15 planets with a population of just under 6 million in 103 years of development and investment. With another 282 years of relative progress, the population sky rocketed to 995,280,000 million; the colonies became self sufficient and were earning TAA 107% of what they initially invested. Unique goods, fauna, and animal products from the Colonies flooded the markets. Art, science, and culture rapidly progressed too in the quadrant far from the home of Sol. The Meridian Belt was the quintessential shining gem of the TAA.
Many hardships were endured in the early days of settlement, as the colonists adapted to the worlds. Mingling with the various people of different cultures that worked alongside them. The major races apart of this were Americano, Dautchse, Jao'urasian, Grecoarabian, and Norte.
The colonies were registered into official records as, New New York, Perth, Michigan, Holland, Dresden, Yellowstone, Olympia, Tiāntángmén, Beijing, Tiananmen, Freystadt, Östersund, New Athens, Meshchyora, Beringia, and Molsbjerge.
Technology by the end of the time had reached 2.8 standards. Advanced nano machinery had been integrated into society, Antimatter was being accrued in the largest amounts ever recorded in human history through the ingenuity of Norman Bach. Culture had taken on interesting turns as the races mixed, mingled, and new ideas and values adopted to the different challenges encountered in the Meridian Belt.
Archive image of a young New New York, an alpine planet, with a relatively large barren world obiting. About 3x the size of the moon. It was a tourist attraction for naturalists, though the forests have been reduced to a few several thousand acre expanses amongst a otherwise industrialized world.
Orbital view of Olympia a lush and diverse world, reportedly the most similar colony to Earth. That was the leader in research, and the cultural center of the Meridian belt.
New Athens was a more hostile world, though the atmospheric pressure is nearly dead on with human standards, 101.2 kpa. The world's ecosytem died long ago from harsh asteroid collisions, any oxygen producing species long extinguished. Instead, due to the planet's history, it is notably mineral rich. Especially in radioactive materials. The world became the industrial base for the colonies. Especially in ship building.
Ostersund, an wild vibrant tropical world with indigenous life forms that facinate scientists to this day. Settlment was especially harsh, and challenging here. As plant life, predators, airborne and infectious spores symbiotic to several species plagued colonists with troubles. Naturally Ostersund had become the epicenter for advancements in the medical field. Today, Ostersund has been more tame as passive solutions were found to several problems the ecosystem had presented through viral genetic modification.
Yellowstone, an interesting prospect for habitation due to its underground ecosytem, and system of geothermal vents that when tapped into provided sources of carbon, hydrogen, and water. These allowed development of mega-domed cities.
First Contact
Humanity for a long time now had known they were not alone. Even the Meridian colonies were prudent enough to establish an interstellar militia. The MDF(Meridian Defense Force) were practiced in the standards of Human warfare of the day, and well equipped for a colonial military.
But whatever standards, or contingent plans the MDF had, they were to be fruitless in the Virgo incident. In the Gamma Hades star system, where New Athens and Olympia are situated, several unidentified objects appeared in the orbits of both New Athens and Olympia. Black, colorless balls dotted the skies. The MDF held fire, as first contact protocol was to maintain neutrality at all costs.
Investigative teams weren't able to find much, passive sensors were barely able to pickup a thermal signature against the background of the void, and active sensor signals were absorbed, even LIDAR. Ten minutes there after the objects disappeared experts identified the objects as probes, which was sooner than later to be confirmed.
Right after all colonies excluding New Athens, and Olypmia experienced the same. The interval of time the objects remained in orbit the same. Then there after every orbiting body even asteroids of every colony were surrounded by the assumed probes. Images of the Black dots rampant in media. The entire event perplexing, as there were no signals, no greetings. Silence was more worrying and perplexing than clear intent.
Broken Silence
MDF was placed on high alert, planetary emplacements were built and military spending skyrocketed under emergency edicts, under the pretense of you could never be to careful. Time passed, after 1 year 6 months the emergency edicts were lifted by public pressure; the wave of fresh recruits dying down to a trickle after the bonuses had been extinguished. Training standards faltered under the wait of too many trainees, and too little leadership to run the program after the major budget cut threw out career veterans for the smallest things. Another 2 years past and the encounter had been long marked as a silent observance by another technological advanced species. Benign in nature.
Then it happened again, a repeat of the Virgo incident. The probes dotting the skies of every inhabited body of every colony system. But these weren't the original probes, they were larger, more easily picked up by passive scans. They launched themselves into the gravity wells of the planets, screaming through the atmosphere. With only a 18 minute notice the low manned defense emplacements were able to intercept a few of the objects. Some exploded on impact, massive conventional bombs, others buried under the surface. All MDF units were mobilized within 2 hours. Intercepting crash sites, cities lay ruined. The opening attack overwhelming the emergency infrastructure of the colonies. Communication was confusing and limited.
An model of the Virgo Incident probes based in the Athens War Memorial.
Digital photo of the first attack, Athens War Memorial Archives
XenoWars
The wars began, they were termed the Xeno Wars because there would be long periods of between assaults. Sporadic and terrifying, intense and short. Each time a different strategy, or several strategies combined thrown recklessly at the colonies. The events and attacks were broken up into events, descriptive of the nature of the assault. MDF command turned into the Meridian Coaliton, there was no way to detect the origin of the attacks though many attempts were made. The attacker's FTL technology well ahead of their own and unique.
Nano-Plague- After the drones had entered the orbits of every planet. The ones that hadn't exploded on impact began receiving signals and infiltrating the planet wide network with quantum speed. Before coalition forces had found them, and destroyed them with heavy ordnance; what had once been an integral part of Colonial society had turned for the worst. Implants, and nano robotics alike turned into monstrosities. Quick matter buildings became Gothic horror's entombing occupants, implants heated to lethal temperatures while nano machines melded with flesh. The nature of this attack completely altered the landscape of all the colonies within days before petering out. Making all too aware of how vulnerable to cyber attacks and otherwise they were. Their enemy had the upper hand.
Under such duress communications with Earth and TAA were made of the situation. Relief was sent, and a small expeditionary force able to make it through the tumultuous distances. The assistance they were able to offer was meager, though any help at all was seen as hope.
Casualties- 19,988,082
Xenophage- 2 years after the first and second attacks. The relief force had deemed they had fully recovered and that there was no threat to them. This was widely opposed, but there was nothing they could do as the ships slipped away into void.
Another six years passed, relative peace allowing the Colonies to recover, and prepare. An shower of meteorites peppered a few planets in the span of 5 months. Too many to stop, and too small to cause enough damage. Authorities at first signed it off as a natural occurrence.
A seed that had been planted though, in the cores of the small meteorites bore fruition of a creature. Entire hives of Xenomonstrosities purposely created to exterminate sentient forms of life, with all but invisible means of communication attacked settlements one after another. They became referred to as "Bugs" do to their exoskeltal, hive mind like nature. The call for help echoed again in the void. But communications with TAA and Earth had been few and far in between, trade had faltered over the years. There would be no help.
Planets fell to these invaders and they eventually became space born. Conflict rage both in land and sky. Refugees flooded to the more secure planets. While Coalition command struggled to combat the unorthodox creatures. Their mass charge tactics devastating and lighting fast. Norman Bach, head of the Xeno-Warfare team created the Novalan solution, an retrovirus derived from Ostersund's gene tailoring virus. That caused Bug's to die from nutrient deprivation since their blood couldn't carry the needed gases. It was first tested on New Athens, where it was successful, then Olympia where it's partial success allowed Coalition forces to destroy the menace.
However it had been found that there after the Bugs had become resilient to the retrovirus. Even immune, to the point that the war had shifted back to conventional warfare. But the amount of ground gained from the Novalan solution was a turning point. Coalition forces able to defeat the Bugs, however the planets that had been over taken were irredeemable. The wartime emergency government initiated the Casanova protocol, space forces nuking the planets from orbit before sending down forces to clear out the hives, tunnel by tunnel. Down to the man.
The death tolls exceeded comprehension, the destruction nigh but repairable. The aftermath left a bitter, harsh reality for the remnants of the Colonies to pick up, and start rebuilding.
Fallen planets- Dresden, Beijing, Freystadt, and Molsbjerge. casualties- 111,383,848 War time span- 18 years.
Memorial in a small city plaza dedicated to a company of men and women who gave their lives to protect evacuating civilians. Inscribed on the plaque to the left is the company commander's quote to his superiors when disobeying direct orders to retreat. "So that others may live."
Chimeric Invasion- Time passed, mourning had long been pushed away, as weakness was death. Communication and ties to Earth and TAA had all been long lost. A new Era of peace washed over for the next twenty two years and three months. Under these conditions, an summit was held on Olympia with all the representing members of the Nation states, originally referred to as the colonies. The need to unite had been decided, and the Federated Articles of Union were created and signed. The emergency Coalition reformed into the more organized Federal Meridian Armed Forces.
Zeng Ru the first Chief Marshall of the Federal Meridian Armed Forces. The highest ranking member with executive control of all branches and services of the military; note that the uniform seen is an old coalition uniform before they were phased out. She had served 3 years as an officer of a Destroyer, 6 of a cruiser. Then 4 as the commanding officer of an 6 entire battle groups. Leading the campaign that ended the Xenophage war. Her speech upon promotion had been a phrase that has gone down in history. "Unity, through victory."
Marlon Holt first Chairman of the Union, which held the power to veto bills, or military action. Propose either, and enact policies. A survivor of Freystadt, and opposed to extreme military actions such as the Casanova Protocol.
The Meridian Armed forces had been more prepared then ever, the military complex taking up over 52% of Union industry. With military servicemen and women comprising of a insanely high 9.3% of the total population. But being prepared, and actually prepared are two different things. Patrols of the surrounding star systems had soon spotted installations of alien origin. Automated, well defended, but no space forces to be seen. Right away the entirety of the Armed forces was dispatched, with a few reserve forces left to protect the colonies.
The offensive operation named "Bái lóng" or white dragon. Upon destroying the installations from orbit, it was found that reproducing adaptive machines had infested many of the star systems. Xeng Ru continued the onslaught, but only to see the machines begin to copycat, then even exceed their own technology. Thus they were termed the Chimerics, after an mythical beast on Earth. What could have been a lighting fast victory turned into a prolonged, dangerous war.
The Meridian military barely able to contain the machines from expanding in their 5 remaining systems. The creation of tactical EMP weapons being the primary and most effective weapon against them, and pure high mass, and high velocity projectiles being the second. The war spread to the planets, but especially to Olympia and New Athens. Where entire shock waves would rack the atmosphere as the Machines FTL'd into orbit and speed downwards; the machines having developed teleportory FTL of the like which hadn't been seen since the Virgo Incident. Machines assaulting the Planetary Defense Forces and destroying entire cities.
They were losing badly, to the point where the FMAF(Federal Meridian Armed Forces) were on the defense. And with only 4 habitable planets remaining in a fighting shape. The rest too war torn, and taken over by the machines. The defense of those planets turned into guerrilla groups, and civilians sheltered in underground tunnel systems. But a group of scientists who worked alongside the Xeno-warfare team. Had found a weakness, by using the machines own way of communication against them. They studied the effects of the brute force cyber attacks during the Nanoplague. Adapting it to target Chimerics.
The cyber warfare worked, the machines being driven back in droves. The signal infecting each Chimeric, then passing onto another. The FMAF making sure to keep up with the momentum, throwing all remaining forces at them, and sending the signal as far as they could. But the war wasn't to end with such an easily obtained victory. Upon reaching the last remaining Chimeric system. A blinding flash filled the skies in the Gamma Hades system for Olympia had been pulverized by an unknown kinetic strike.
It was found that the Chimerics had developed an FTL weapon of unprecedented power, one that could destroy entire planets. The war ended with massive losses, and a society standing on its stilts. But survival had been attained.
Fallen Planets- Olympia, Perth, Michigan, Holland, Tiāntángmén, Tiananmen, Meshchyora, and Beringia. Casualties- 588,544,653 Total casualties- 719,923,583 Remaining pop- 475,356,417 Surviving planets- New New York, New Athens, Yellowstone, and Ostersund. War Time span- 43 years
Horrifying scene of Olympia's destruction. Captured by a satellite.
Elysium memorial on New New Yok. Dedicated to entire fallen PDF divisions, FMSF Battle groups, and FMMC Companies.
Present
Union Census
Capital Resurgem, New Athens.
Total Poulation
35.081 billion
Total Colonized planets
10
Total orbital habitat swarms
21
Population of habituated planets
New Athens: 6,938,029,325
New New York: 9,390,203,789
Ostersund: 4,230,103,356
Yellowstone: 6,973,928,802
Shanhaiguan: 2,988,826,629
Galashki: 996,275,543
Landjut: 711,625,388
Vologda: 1,707,900,931
Atlanta: 284,650,155
Volos: 569,510,300
Total Population of habituated objects, Habitat Swarms, Stations, Asteroids, and Small moons.
290,459,342
Racial Demographics
Norte: 27%
Americano: 21%
Grecoarabian: 19%
Dautchse: 18%
Jao'urasian: 15%
Tech level: 3
Nuclear Ballistics: Its just as its sounds, with the advancement of material technologies it was possible to create an barrel able to withstand an Implosion type warhead igniting in the breach. The alloy metals used such as Tungsten-Rhenium, or composite materials like fusion fused Boron-nitride-Boron projectiles; propel to faster speeds at longer distances than possible with other more conventional means. The strenuous stresses, and pure mass of using an Nuclear ignited cannon means these are usually spinally mounted to its ship.
Nuclear Pumped X-ray Lasers- Used mostly in Missile Warheads, through less conventional and less damaging, its pure range advantage provides an advantage over other designs.
Shaped Nuclear charges- Another warhead type, with less range but more practical penetration power. Can be used to propel an projectile that is the actual penetrator, or an stand alone Casaba Howizter.
Warp Technology- By using the massive yields of Fusion energy, a ship fitted with spatial distortion tech can fold and bend space time. Thus able to reach FTL speeds without actually inducing inertial stress.
LIDAR(Light Imaging, Detection, And Ranging)-Through the use of pulsed lasers, this active sensor is the fastest and most reliable sensor. It creates a image from how the pulsed lasers reflection in the distance. Though at solar distances light speed lag still hampers detection.
Fusion power- Technology has allowed the use of Fusion power in a variety of applications such as power packs for ships, propulsion, and weapons.
Rail Cannons- A combination weapon that is redundant in case of an EMP. Uses both ferromagnetic, and convential ballistic charges to accelerate a round to terminal velocity.
Spatial Distortion- An slightly improved version of the original technology that derrive from TAA, and Sol blueprints. Referred to as "Warp cores", the size of these stellar engines are accurately measured to each vessel's needs. Attempts of weaponization have been made, referred to as the "Scythe" project. It was found the weapons were too unpredictable in nature to use to any degree of effectiveness, not to mention to energy inefficient.
Union Government
The Federal Forum of the Union. Host to the senate, where many decisions of the Union is made. Resurgem, New Athens.
Government Description
The Federal Meridian Union is a military democracy. Shaped by the XenoWars. Though freedom of expression, the right to bear arms, and tolerance of religion is maintained. There are many stigmas to them. Prior service members, and active duty members especially are elevated above normal citizens. Only prior, or active members may bear arms, run for Chairman, Vice Chairman, Federal Minister, or Federal Senator. The benefits of military service are so high, that even with rigorous training, and tours. The current military size is 5.2% of the population in a less wartime oriented environment.
Government Chain
Executive
Chairman- Figurehead of the government. With power to veto military or senatorial actions and bills.
Vice Chairman- More of a figure head then anything, has diplomatic and ambassadorial honors. Manages the cabinet.
Federal Minister- Governs a planet, or colony.
Minister- Governs a county, or region.
Mayor- Governs a city, town, village, space habitat/s.
Congressional
Federal Senator- Convenes at the Federal Forum of the Union, primary power is voting on new bills that effect everyone and everything in the Federal Meridian Union.
Senator- Votes on new bills that effect everyone within a planet, or colony.
Congressman/woman- Votes on new bills that effect everyone within a county, or region.
Consular- Votes on new bills that effect everyone within a city, town, village, space habitat/s.
Federal Meridian Armed Forces
In Meridian society, the military is held high above all else. Though human rights are not entirely sacrificed in the name of it during peacetime. Service is voluntary, but this is made up for the fact of huge benefits and comparable pay with civilian jobs. The service terms are universal, and due to life prolongation treatments it has seen the longest service times in human history, up to 40 years. With retirement benefits starting at 20 years, and only getting better with every 5 years mark.
Total Service members: 1,824,227,785
Service Terms
4
6
8
10
Command Hierarchy
-Chief Marshal of the Federal Meridian Armed Forces --Admiral of the Federal Meridian Space Force ---Joint heads of staff
Federal Meridian Space Force
The FMSF is the most well funded branch of the FMAF. The theory of preventing threats before they can reach or even touch Planets or Colony's well accepted among Military leadership. The FMSF plays a vital roll in vacuum operations, transportation, and supply of ground forces.
Dreadnoughts
Named after the loss of Olympia, this war vessel is made to fight long range in slug fests. The frame, power, and propulsion systems an Co-opt between Heer-Krausser Dynamics and Primeoptum spaceyards. It features asymmetric wipple shields, which is an unorthodox design decision; most of the ships actual length comprises of the auxiliary systems and armoring for the 525mm N.B.C., its spinal mount structure reinforced against potential threats especially ASMs. The ship has been built around redundant systems, so much so that The N.B.C, 85, and 45mm cannons can be operated without power. This ship was designed from the lessons of the Chimeric wars.
Measurements: 446,094 metric Tons, 1.3 Km long. Armaments: 925mm Heer-Krausser Dynamics N.B.C.(Nuclear Ballistic Cannon), 8x radially mounted Bach Solutions Nuclear Powered X-ray Lasers. 30x H-K Dynamics Multipurpose(Including ASMs and AMMs-Anti Missile Missles) launch tubes, 16x H-K Dynamics LASM(Long Range Anti-ship Missle) launch tubes, 10x 85mm H-K Dynamics Multipurpose(Inculding CIWS) rail cannons, 32x 45mm McDowell Landsystems CIWS electrical driven Gatling cannons. Sensors: Infared, LIDAR, Optical, and Radar. Armor: Carbon-Carbon carbide wipple shields, Reactive armor packages, Boron Carbide-UHMWPE composite armor plates, spaced armor techniques, and compartmentalized design. Active Defenses: Tens of Thousands of smoke/chaff dispensers, Experimental EM Field tech, Cyber-warfare suite, redundant subsystems. Munitions: 85 Taurus class LASMs, 100 Jaguar Class LASMs, 343 Meteor Multipurpose Missiles, 186 Hornet class ASMs, 131x 525MM slugs, 825x 85 MM Frag munitions, 315x 85MM APFSDS. 7152x 45MM High Explosive shells. Onboard craft: 16x Phoenix Class Drones, 4x Roland class Transports. FTL:Warp
An older design dating back to the Xenophage. The Huai-Hai class has been continually upgraded and re-serviced in the Space Force. Many remain as the staple flagship of battle groups. Providing more supporting fire power than actual Anti-capital ship capabilities. Though it should be noted that anymore production of these classes is impossible. Since the infrastructure and data pertaining to the Huai-Hai Class has been lost. After the destruction of many of Tao'Xun T&D facilities consecutively in the Xenophage and Chimeric wars.
An ship of the line, conceived by Heer-Krausser Dynamics. The Leipzig class had proven it's worth in the Chimeric wars. Sturdy, reliable. With a bristling armament for it's size. The only thing it lacks is speed. It has been kept up to date, and and renovated over the years.
Designed to be produced in massive numbers, and fill in a variety of roles. The Tao'Xun Faxian class offers versatility above all. It has been configured for the following roles, Scout, CIWS, LASM, and Gunship frigate types. This spaceframe hasn't been tested yet, a recent procurement by the FMSF. Even after trails, the FSMF is awaiting field results to decide whether to introduce the Faxian class into the fleet fully.
Scout Configuration
CIWS Configuration
LASM Configuration
Gunship Configuration
The Yanshi class proposed by Tao'Xun, and constructed by Primeoptum spaceyards during the Chimeric wars; was an interim solution to fighting the countless war vessels the Chimerics were able to put out. The Glass cannon theory literally put into play, the vessel quickly earning "The Boomstick" as it's nickname. Presently though the Yanshi Class has been updated to standards with H-K weaponry, classified as an outdated design, and for the most part put into bone yards or reserve units.
Designed in peacetime, the Aradam class was a joint design by Bach Solutions and Primeoptum Spaceyards. The main purpose of this ship being a long range laser frigate, the power pack extensively designed with crew protection in mind. A large downside of this frigate, is it's reliance on automated systems. Though the entire point is to be out of weapons range in the first place. The Engine section notably large looking due to radially mounted drop tanks.
A more recent development by Primeoptum Spaceyards. The Devastator is a purpose built fighter, though the title may say otherwise. The reason for this, is that practically in space, the closest thing to fighter's are drones. During the Chimeric wars, drones were found to be less effective against the machines, larger armaments always needed and redundant systems for increased survival. This led to a preference for Strike Corvettes over fighters and bombers. The Devastator class has quickly become the replacement for older designs, and is the staple of current day FMSF.
Top row, left to right: O-7 Flag Admiral, O-8 Rear Admiral, O-9 High Admiral, O-10 Executor Admiral, O-11 Admiral of the Federal Meridian Space Force. Second row, left to right: O-1 Sub Lieutenant, O-2 Lieutenant, O-3 Flag Officer, O-4 Captain, O-5 Brigadier Colonel, O-6 Colonel. Bottom row left to right: E-1 Spaceman Basic, E-2 Spaceman Apprentice, E-3 Spaceman, E-4 Lance Petty Officer, E-5 Petty Officer, E-6 Senior Petty Officer, E-7 Master Petty Officer.
Federal Meridian Marine Corps
The second most funded branch, the emphasis of the FMMC is mobility, versatility, and capability. FMMC forces are able to be dropped in "Hot" through the atmosphere or land on barren rocks, tanks, artillery, AA, SPAAG's, IFV's, AFV's, APCs; you name it the FMMC has it and can deploy anywhere, anytime. Though a large sacrifice to having this capability is for lighter designs with life support systems able to be properly deployed; is that they are in essence weaker. This is made up for on a focus of elite infantry training, and equipment. A well known stigma for joining the FMMC, is that no matter your MOM(Military Operating Mission) that you must serve 2 years as a Marine Rifleman.
Small Arms
The IS-14/8(Infantry System) is a product of more recent developments. After the Chimeric wars, the FMMC had found the standard small arms rifle cartridge 7mm(Still used by the PDF to this day), was lacking fire power when fighting against machine enemies or otherwise; like the bugs from the Xenophage with reports indicating a dozen or more rounds needed to eliminate a single bug. Thus they had initiated a arms contest, and in the end Tao'Xun Techonolgies and Development won the contract. The Rifle was developed around a high power hunting round only found on Ostersund. Since hunter's there had to contend with large game at long distances. Thus the design was based around the 9.2mm Liger catridge. With further developments making most if not all rounds Teflon coated for vacuum use(Since standard lubricant boils and is useless in zero-g/atmomspheric conditions.). The rifle's materials also made to withstand use in that enviroment. Thus allowing the rifle to be both durable in vacuum and terrestrial scenarios. Today the FMMC exclusively uses the IS14/8. with the IS-14 being the battle rifle variant, and the IS-8 being the Battle carbine variant.
The IS-21 was adopted in about the same time as the IS-14/8. It is an 25mm heavy support weapon. Meant to take down heavily armored personel targets, suppress wiht explosive or airburst ammo, and provide needed fire power against light vehicles. Like the IS-14/8, the IS-21 can be used in vacuum, however it is explicitly not meant to be used in Zero-G conditions unless aboard a ship, or attached to something with mass. The back blast alone will propel you.
IS-21 Heavy Support Rifle Specifications Barrel- Rifled martensitic steel 16" Modes- 2 round burst, semi auto. Ammo- 25mm Bennett, explosive, air burst, slug, AP.
Tanks
The Comet2M1 is a recent aquisition in the last 15 years, being mass produced to replace the aging fleet of Comet AGS's. It was adopted for its extremely low weight, and relatively high fire support it can provide. Using advanced materials, that may sky rocket costs. This Tank has yet to be tested in combat, and see if it is worth its weight in gold. The down side is that the Tank has to land on planets with considerable gravity wells without modular armor applique; only having its standard chassis and basic composite makeup for protection. Though in an ideal situation the armor aplique would land aside the tanks, and be installed by Marine Combat Engineers. The composite is an Boron Carbide resin aggregate, offering more protection with the armor as such /spaced/Boron resin/Titanium chassis/carbon mesh spalling.
Comet2M1 Specifications Chassis- Grade 38 Titanium alloy Armor- Composite sandwiched between Chasis, Modular armor, Carbon mesh anti-spalling, and ERA blocks. Weapons- 100mm cannon, 12.7mm autocannon. Defense Systems: Laser Warning System, LIDAR and Radar wanring System, CIWS capable secondary, and anti Infared-Laser smoke. Sensor Systems: Infared, optical, LIDAR, and NV mode. Gross weight: 39.2 metric tons.
O-1 Warrant Officer , O-2 Lead Officer, O-3 Lieutenant, O-4 Lance Captain , O-5 Brigadier Major, O-6 Major, O-7 Lieutenant Commander, O-8 Major Commander, O-9 General, O-10 Corps General
With history going back to the days of the colonies. The PDF has carried over alot of tradition. The main funding of the PDF is the planetary installations for missile silos, and CIWS systems. Secondarily the PDF has a Air Force, and a heavily mechanized ground force. Members of the air and ground forces recieve alot of flak for poorer training and less funding. Though considering the fact that they are based primarily on breathable terrestrial worlds. The equipment they can use is actually superior in fighting quality to the other branches in terms of terrestrial combat.
Tanks
The Paragon MBT was created during the Chimeric war. Intended to survive, and be able to withstand assault while eliminating targets. The Paragon has become a cultural symbol, seen in movies, monuments and more. Though over a century has passed. Continued use of this amazing vehicle is ongoing.
Statistics: Chasis: Chromium Vanadium Steel Armor: Modular Armor, Carbon Mesh spall lining, ERA blocks can be applied. Defense Systems: CIWS capable secondary armaments, Infared-laser blocking smoke(Also greatly decreases laser weapon effectiveness), Laser warning systems, incoming fire warning systems. Sensors: Radar, Infared, Optical cameras, Laser range finder, NV mode. Weapons: 1x 175mm smooth bore main cannon 2x 12.7mm electric gatling cannons, 1x 25mm autocannon Ammo: 52 175mm, 1850 12.7mm, and 810 25mm. Gross weight: 82 metric tons
Before I put it out there at some point this week. Would a remnant US nation sheet including Trump and some original Generals, and cabinet members be fine? I was thinking of it as the main Remenant US Faction. Witholding some of the greatest military power, and operating maybe a tenth of the original bases in the US. While the territory wouldn't be impressive. The true power would come through other means. Firepower, intelligence, proffesional manpower. Mass militias. Were some of my ideas. But the negative would be, being overstretched and too many US supporter factions requiring help.(Oh and btw I'm still working on my interest, work and the combo of ppl losing interest. I slowed down development.)
Nice! I see you put alot of thought into it. This is what I look forward to seeing. Alot of asymmetry between factions based on unique characteristics, beliefs or otherwise.
Also I love the singularity theme, ever read Quantum Thief? Best singularity based book out there. As for multiple human factions. That will be put on hold until we see alot more alien factions come into play. But also we will have to balance the fact there could very well be two human factions or more that might work together at one point or another. XD
Also a quick update. We have a discord! I'll put it at the bottom of the interest check. Just come in chill, have a space barbecue. Whatever fits your whim.
Update: Just polished the interest check further and for the most part the Founding member NPC's are finished. Further detailed the game mechanics. Decided on a roll system for Dossiers, NPCs included will be subject to this, and take their own actions every turn.
So in other words I'm spewing out content like its going out of business my todo list. -Develop and finish mechanics -Develop RNG lists for research, events, and otherwise fine details players will encounter each turn. -Add one or two more NPCs -Try to stop making more things in depth and complicated. -Order pizza -Watch Firefly and chill -maybe study after and get my life together ;)
If things are too out there mechanics wise. Let me know, I'll dumb it down. As for now this Interest check won't go IC/OOC until I see the Nation Sheets popping up. No rush, by no means do I want anyone to rush. Just letting you all know for future reference. Can't wait to see where this goes!
I'm playing with a lot of ideas. The Curators enforce the Concordance, but don't participate in it. So technically no, but on the other-hand you are right. Its a yes. Don't mind me I have a bit of adled mind from a long week.
The vestiges of sentience have long since reached the stars. Stories of war, tragedy. Are all but common, species hurling asteroids at one another. The charred surfaces of barren homeworlds long since destroyed by nuclear fire littering the core. Encounters with the unknown ancient and ultimately reclusive precursors sparse and terrifying.
But there is a spark that has drawn both minor and major civilizations alike moths to a flame. It is the first attendance of the Interstellar Concordance. Established by the founders on shaky grounds of trust, there is a new hope for cooperation. Perhaps the future of many will not be determined by the force of might alone, but instead the weight of words and the signing of treaties.
Interstellar Concordance is a rp of exploration, diplomacy, economy, and war. Which is focused on and around the politics, subterfuge, and intrigue that takes place on and outside of Aspiron. Which I have to admit, is giving me huge Mass Effect and Babylon 5 flashbacks.
Joining
To attend the Interstellar Concordance you will abide by the following ground rules -Any representative will not be armed, have armed body guards or armed warships. The Curators provide such necessities. -Hostilities between attending members will not be tolerated. Outside of Concordance space however, it is frowned upon but not restricted. -You will agree to abide by any deals, treaties, or laws established by votes. Using Concordance space as an means to establishing diplomacy with other members outside of the votes is promoted. -Any proposed vote will be accepted by a 3/4 majority. Or will be declined until another vote can be brought up. -Finally all attending members will communicate in Galactic Common. As to overcome differences in culture.
Nation Sheet Format
Faction name:[Civilization, nation, or faction name. Also possibly an identification, or sector of space instead, such as an criminal sector. Pirate faction, or anything that you can think up of is allowed.] Species:[Name of your species, alien or not. Only one human faction allowed. Whilst only two of the same species are allowed at the same time.] Member of Interstellar Concordance:[Yes, or no. Being a part of the Concordance has its cons and pros] Important Characters:[Leaders, diplomats, etc. The sky is the limit, but at the same time don't over kill it.] Representative:[The representative attending the Concordance, only one is allowed at a time. Though supplementing diplomats, advisers, and otherwise may come to the Concordance. The representative is the one who holds weight, can propose bills, and use their vote.] Description of Civilization:[From the biology of your species(multiple are allowed), to its culture. To government, military, technology or history. Elaborate as much as you wish.] Advantages and disadvantages:[State the pros and cons of your Nation Sheet. This will help determine your sheet's dossier given to you at the start of the RP]
Founding Members
The Curators
Faction name: The Curators Member of Interstellar Concordance:Yes Description of Civilization:Many rumors surround the nature of the Curators, and who their creators might've been. As the Vartauri had found them alone on the planet of Aspiron. A metropolis spanning the the surface and bellow. Tended by the Curators in the hopes that one day, the “Clients” would come. The clients defined as the sentient species of the galaxy. The guidelines, procedures, and actions they took to convince the Vartauri to bring about the first Interstellar Concordance hard coded eons ago.
The Curators are an Non-sentient race of robotics. They come in a few variations and sizes but their technology easily defeats all Attending and non-attending members, excluding the precursors. Populating the metropolis world of Aspiron. Their goal is peace keeping and the establishment of the Concordance. However they are relegated to the star system they inhabit. Hard coded to never leave. They primarily enforce the rules of Concordance, and attend to all sentient life who inhabit the planet.
Advantages -Military, and Technological advantage -Diplomatic immunity -Practically immortal
Disadvantages -Non sentient -Cannot reproduce past a set number -Cannot exit their star system -Cannot vote, or participate in the Concordance. Other than enforce it.
Vartauri
Faction name: Trethellion Confederation Species: Vartauri Member of Interstellar Concordance:Yes Important Characters: Representative:Tal'Yorosh Description of Civilization:The Vartauri are an unisex, egg laying species. Their humble beginnings in the lush rain forests of their homeworlds. Vibrant and violent. One homeworld after another and discovered that they weren't not alone. A total of 3 planets being their birthplaces. It is later found that they had been colonized on these planets through embryo colonization. An artifact of space faring origins. Their six limbs providing mobility, speed, flexibility, and the ability to climb rapidly, in order to avoid the predators of their biome. Herbivores, the first formation of herds eventually turned into tribes. Then to settlments, and from there it is history.
The Vartauri are a fertile species, but their biology has become uniquely dispositioned to imbibing narcotics. It is infact a major pass time. As casual as alcohol is with Humans. The side effects minimal, as long as it isn't over done. This has shaped society in several unique ways, the journey a narcotic induced semi-hallucinatory right of passage for many paths in Vartuari culture. Such as marriages, phasing through puberty to become an adult, religious rituals to find oneself or the secrets of the universe are the major ones.
The Trethellion Confederation is a united interstellar government composed of three major Republics and their representatives. Established during the Gau incursions to their border territories. The government was formed to keep the more erratic elements of the galaxy at bay through concerted efforts, and creation of united space force. Since then, though their military has grown lax once again due to the assistance of the Arbiters. Who patrol their space.
Trade, and discovery go hand in hand for the Vartauri. They came by Aspiron, and were the first to support the idea of the Insterstellar Concordance proposed by the Curators and their unknown creators. They have become an expert in interacting with the varying species of the galaxy, creating Galactic Common from information given to them by the Curators.
Abroad the other species of the galaxy. The Vartauri are referred to as the “Travelers”
Advantages -Cooperative populace due to legalized drug use -Rampant explorers and traders. Higher income on trade routes, less cost to explore Star systems and worlds.
Disadvantages -Unhindered trading of and smuggling of drugs can put the Vartauri traders at odds with authorities -Less emphasis on military buildup, costs more to establish ground, or space forces. -Less capable researchers
Benkaran
Faction name: Nexus Aujidicant Protectorate Species:Benkaran Member of Interstellar Concordance: Yes Important Characters: Drexel Covarius, Admiral of the First Expedition Fleet. Representative:Vartauri rep, Gav'Aktai Description of Civilization: Commonly referred to as the “Arbiters”. The Benkarans are a race of cybernetic anthropoids. One of the older known species in the galaxy. And self proclaimed enforcers of order first, and nominated peace keepers of the Interstellar Concordance second.
Their beginnings are in the Nexus cluster. The outer edge of the galaxy. On one of the few habitable planets left. They developed on a oxygen rich world, which eventually lead to an insect, and anthropoid dominant ecosystem. The Benkarans survived in a harsh rapidly changing environment. By the time they had just reached space faring capability and had colonized planets in their own Star System. Their faltering dwarf star had shrunk too much, the ecology of their homeworld dying out. The crisis presented them with their first technological hurtle. On the brink of extinction, they had solved the problems of mortality through extreme prosthesis, and cybernetic implantation.
They have gone on to colonize many worlds. Most barren and lifeless. Their highly altered life style and adaptation to hostile environments. But during a series of wars on the rim. They intervened first making themselves known by, instead of diplomacy or fighting for their own interests. They interdicted the homeworlds of minor civilizations, silently destroying their military facilities and speeding off. The process was repeated a few times before they civilizations stopped and were subdued into their sphere of influence.
The first major civilization to encounter the Benkaran in the dark space of the rim, was the Vartauri whom established relations with them, and their protected nations. The Benkaran welcomed news of the Galaxy and affairs. Even offered protection to the Vartauri. This naturally led to them being included as a founding member of the Interstellar Concordance. Given the duties of upholding the peace around, though not in Concordance space.
Strangely enough, the Benkaran have rejected putting a foot on Aspiron, or entering Concordance space. Thus delegating through the Vartauri to represent their interests.
The Benkaran are not known for their forgiveness, nor their subtlety. Their warships of advanced neural-cybernetic link giving them a edge in high-G combat. Their fleets their primary expense and everything else a fore thought. This leaves a gap in their planetary and ground defenses. But the theory is why need any, when you have overwhelming space superiority?
Advantages -One of the strongest, if not strongest Military's in the whole known Galaxy -Low upkeep fleets -Low cost military buildup -Highly adaptable, and can colonize practically any planet
Disadvantages -Small debonus towards research -Lower trade income -Low fertility, and slower colonization -High debonus to diplomacy and influence -debonus to Defending agianst ground forces, and orbital bombardment.
Note: Founding members have 1.5 votes each as dictated by the Concordance. Their status may be degraded any time by their actions observed by the Curators. They have been observed and chosen by the Curators to be the non-biased party aside from themselves.
Players
Faction name: "The Commonwealth" Species: Those that live in the Commonwealth are generally refered to as "mankind" the majority of mankind descend from humans, often with some degree of adaptation to colonized planets. Member of Interstellar Concordance: Yes Important Characters: W.I.P Representative: "Metatron" a single representative for such a large civilization goes against the cyberdemocratic values of the commonwealth. Metatron is more a government organization than a single person. An "Avatar" of the Commonwealth as a whole. Description of Civilization: The commonwealth is a technological system of government designed by "The Second Solar Imperium" long ago, most positions of the government were run by automated systems (much to the chagrim of politicians across Imperium space). While planets integrated into the Commonwealth retained some degree of government, each planet is given an "Advisor" which advances the agenda of the commonwealth as a whole, and guides the developement of the colony...which sometimes leads to the old government falling out of favor. The population of the commonwealth is diverse, while most trace roots back to ancient earth, others are members of less advanced alien civilizations absorbed into the commonwealth over the coarse of hundreds of years. They remember when the "Angels" came and slowly introduced life-changing technology. Different subcultures have different views of the Commonwealth they inhabit. While they are part of the Concordance, others are weary of imperialistic tendencies.
Advantages and disadvantages: +high technology (Most notably bio and cyber-technology has advanced to the point where the majority of inhabitants don't really differentiate between the two. Artificial life is abundant) +high standard of living due to widespread automation =Diversity -Rogue systems, parts of the commonwealth that have been subverted through digital or memetic memes, some of these seek to destroy the commonwealth for various reasons. Sapient Computer viruses (some sapient computer viruses are official citizens, but have to obey the law like everyone else!) -Terrorists -current FTL tech lags behind some of the other advanced civilizations, its not bad, but it could use improvement
NPCs
Faction name:The Resurgants(Located in the “Gau Sector”) Species:Gau, Gau'n, Gau'ns Member of Interstellar Concordance:Yes Important Characters: Representative:Vaklu-Sakaat Description of Civilization: The Gau, are an Avian species that developed on what could be considered, a Earth-like world. A sexually binary species with female and male counterparts. The evolution of the Gau was tumultuous at best, and when the bronze age had been reached. Their evolutionary path for the most part had been set in. To an onlooker, their accomplishments and intelligence were spectacular. But a look deeper, scratching the surface away. It is found the Gau have consistent, wild visual, and auditory hallucinations. An artifact of evolution that hasn't been taken away, and one that can't be bio-engineered or cured. This has caused a very unique society to emerge. The Vartauri had discovered them, pocketed away amongst the band of core systems. They shared their language, even charts to the stars in their early development. The Gau were fast to learn, and faster to spread. Flocks dotting the skys of the core. Until they eventually incurred into Vartauri space causing a defensive war that had lasted centuries until the Gau settled into their part of the galaxy.
It has come to pass that society has been broken up into Flocks, that can range into the hundreds, or thousands. Then these Flocks will convene to form pacts, to be a part of Nation, sector, or association. This has created a fragmented, and diverse society. Conflict is the norm, though not all conflict seen is associated with the use of violent, and lethal means. For the most part it has been settled that such acts are not in the best interest in the whole.
Most flocks have an specialization, or calling, then the larger group they are part of, will be associated with that most likely. Nations can work in entirely different ways but have the same principles. As for an interplanetary government. Formally there is none. Though a group called the “Resurgants” has recently come to start reigning in the largest majority of Flocks ever seen in Gau history. Through all means, and any possible. They are in fact the representing group on the Conclave.
Everyday tidings, and processions of the Gau. Is an rhapsody of deception, power struggles, compromise, and exchange of ultimately alien ideas between Flocks.
Advantages -Diverse -Adaptive -Jack of Many trades, master of many.
Disadvantages -Military power, though formidable can be divided at best. -Low cooperation between Flocks -Strange and hard to decipher psychology, has caused friction with other civilizations before. -Prone to inner and outer conflict, in various forms not thought of in most civilizations. -Due to their nature, and controversy. The Gau presently have no sway in the Concordance until the Resurgants can prove the Gau have changed.
Mechanics
There is going to be the following mechanics in Interstellar Concordance. -Exploration -Colonization -building -trade(Technology, intelligence, commerce, and possibly more between players and NPCs) -Diplomacy(With other players, and NPCs) -research -Intelligence(On other player's Dossiers, actions. NPC's included) -War
Due to the scale, and number of players that will be a part of this. I will make sure to dumb these mechanics down as much as possible, and leave them open ended for interpretation.
Turn mechanics Each turn a player may post once. All relevant overt actions will be incorporated into the post in a summary or otherwise in the the rp itself. So I can know the actions taken. Any covert actions, will be PMed to me, and the Co-GM
Play Order
Event Roll: An event is rolled from a list of potential occurrences. Or the actions of players may prompt an event to happen. An initiative roll is also taken, which determines which players/NPC's may go first.
Player Actions: Players may take up to four actions per turn. Actions
Explore Star system, nebula, asteroid field, or planet. Costs income, and a single Space fleet(The space fleet is non perishable, however is indisposed of the following turn due to resupply operations)
Establish relations with Player or NPC Costs nothing but a action. Will garner one influence if the roll is successful. So keep in mind differences in culture, and biology will influence the outcome.
Establish Trade with Player or NPCCosts 1 influence established through diplomacy to create.
Trade information or Technology with Player or NPC Costs influence from both sides, to complete a trade. The trade may be one ended with only one party benefiting or both. AKA extortion is plausible.
Build Space stations, outposts, shipyards, defense platforms. You name it. Builds are custom orders, name what you want, and you will be notified of the cost. Note that there will be a list of established structures to choose from.
Propose new bill Present a new bill for the Interstellar Concordance to vote over. Will cost influence garnered through diplomacy, and will vary on what you propose.
ResearchResearch works in the following order. Theoretical, applied, then prototype stages. These technologies can be chosen to supplement military space or ground forces. Economic, or otherwise how the player chooses to use them. A player chooses the project they want from an Rnged list. Then the project costs income over the course of how many turns it takes to complete the project. Theoretical, and Prototypes are ostensibly shorter then applied projects. Applied is the gap between theoretical and prototype phases.
Recruit/arm new ground force or space force
Colonize To colonize a habitable planet. Will cost a varied amount of income and space forces until the Colony is self sufficient. Covert Actions These actions don't need to be mentioned in your post, but can hinted too or suggested at the player's discretion. Execution of said operations may become overt or announced without your discretion in mind however.
Fund Covert AgencyWill increase defense against covert operations, and slightly increase offense. Also allows a rolled amount of slots for contact networks to be established.
Fund Contact NetworkWill allow your agency to gain intel on the targeted faction. Note, that results will vary. And information is a double edged sword.
Sabotage To sabotage a research project, trade lane, ground force, space force, or orbital structure.
EspionageA more direct means of gathering information, or stealing it. Can be used to assess force sizes, to discover and/or steal research projects.
Custom action Action per the player's request. Will have varied costs, and results.
My idea with this rp. Is to allow you, the player, free reign within the mechanics themselves. This includes research. I want you to take the elements of research and decide WHAT you want to do with them. For ex. You have just finished researched micro-fusion to the applied stage. You could reserch a prototype for military, or commercial purpose. Such as, an new engine that speeds trade along and increases your income marginally. Or military purposes, such as the creation of a short range Fusion lance fitted to speedy fighters. Giving you a space force attack bonus. I want you to world build with me. To create a rich experience.
This theory can be applied to every action plausible. Use your creativity within the bounds of actions and rules of the mechanics. And expand on them.
Note: This is all WIP aside from the Nation Sheet things are bound to be altered before we hit the IC thread. As for how long it might take me to get there is varied. But I will do my best to get it done in a timely manner. By all means express your interest, ideas, and nation sheets! Go wild with your world building, talk to others about how your factions might relate to each other. It will promote a more vibrant, and active rp. I'm putting this out here with a few rough edges after working on this for about 5-6 hours. Alot of thought is going into this, and I might not be as fast to get started like some other rps. Either way, welcome everyone!
I could do GM. But the thing is I work 9-10 hour shifts easily. Not to mention I was working on another rp so I would have to drop that hmmm. Sure I'll take it up, but in the back of my mind I have a feeling Theo is going to be awfully butt hurt. I'll shoot up a interest thread this weekend with a similar theme, and same nation sheet format so everyone can chip in. I'll also make sure to have a definitive Co-GM. Because there will be times I won't be able to manage things.