GrimBeard

House Matareka Imperial Takakasi Province The War on Buath was one of pure misery and death. Every day when Lord Ihorange and his staff toured the front, new horrific sights greeted them. Tattered soldiers sitting in groups, quietly smoking. Very little energy was left in the troops, no games or pranks going on. Instead they fidgeted whenever a shell fired, or a dropship came shrieking down. Ihorange has done the best he could, but only so much could be achieved with no resounding victory. He glassed the Irik lines again, watching them move about. Every day the Imperial lines made sure to launch massive bombardments. It seemed to faze them little, but that was not the plan. The Lord and his staff quietly pray that the Irik do not notice what is going on literally beneath their feet. In the personal estates of Matareka, the Seneschal has negated the worst of the famine. Even with the pirates and merchants, they could still import enough food from allies to stay full. The Province was now able to actually dedicate it’s resources to growth. And it would be planned to sky rocket in a five year model. A new fleet, army, and economy is drafted to be pushed through. Even now Lords across the realm are receiving stimulus packages to begin growing their industry. It will be a laborious process, but one that hopefully pays off. The most important news is that of the Suffragette movement Lord Ihorangi started. Initially he just wanted to prove Women could fight and serve in the Imperial Army too. But as the years progressed it became clear many thought it not enough. Now on the private palace of the Matareka’s, notable women from across the galaxy are invited. Their goal now is to begin connections with women rights groups across the galaxy, and organize them under a central committee championed by Lord Matareka and his kin. – Last Turn; 5 B, 3 E, 7 M, 167.5k C Building 5 Heavy Industry -25k , 5 B Using 3 E to on troops for Power Armor Food Imports -15.6k Treasury +126.9k -- Current Turn; 5 B, 3 E, 7 M, 215.9k C MOD Actions [!] Gathering key Women figures advocating for female rights, to organize chapters across the galaxy to recruit women. Lord Matareka even lends is Psyker to help convey messages faster. Financial Actions 2 Shipyards -20k, 4 B 1 Heavy Industry -5k, 1 B Importing 4 Food from Oberstein –3.6k Transporting 2 E to Holy Order 1 E on Arc Blades for troops Experimental Research The top minds from the various Tech worlds of House Matareka are gathered at the capital. They are given the task of making faster engines for warships. Their goal is to not try and make something completely new. But instead to take the engines already there, and enhance them as much as possible. They will completely overhaul the Engine system for max efficiency – 1 E, 10k C

House Matareka Imperial Takakasi Province Lord Matareka, Commander in Chief of the Buath War Front, surveyed the command quarters. Tucked away in the center of the LZ, it was a armored and squat affair. Mostly buildt underground by engineers, it was bristling with defense and communication arrays. Captain Fauchex led his security detail, sweeping the grounds ahead of him. Several large troops in power armor hoisting Arc Lances stuck close to their lord. Greeting them was a small parade detail, and the remnants of the last Commanders staff. Briskly saluting them all, Lord Matareka entered his new HQ. Trailing him was his own personal staff, all frantically writing as he belted out orders. Very rapidly the Lord was organizing the War Effort focused around him. His famous first words are transmitted to all sections of the Front. “I am here now, let us end this war and return to our homes”. On the home front Seneschal Ahuru has relatively contained the desperate famine. Thanks to a new Senate bill passed, he was able to import enough grain at fixed prices to feed his people. The Core Merchants were not happy, but they also feared paying the fine for refusing. And so the loyal citizens of Takakasi could be relieved. Tens of thousands have died, and many were forced to commit horrors that will last with them all their lives. But the worst of it all is over now. – Income; 129k Imperial Credits 3 B, 3 E, 7 M Mod Actions [MOD Please] Lord Matareka issues an edict to his Seneschals to move some of his finances. They will discreetly start to hire Female mercenaries who could not serve in the Guard. They will only hire 500 or so of the most elite they can find. Their contract swears them to secrecy, and they will be hosted on House Matareka’s personal estates. Only the most loyal servants and Lords will see them. These mercenaries are told they will be paid extremely well, and be formed into Lord Matareka’s personal Armsmen detail. He makes it clear he recognizes their fighting value, and wishes to train them into a model unit to show off to the Galaxy. -20k Credits for hiring, equipping, and training. [MOD Please] Lord Matareka also fulfill his promise to care for the troops under his command in Buath. Funds will be spent on medical supplies, doctors, paying for mail back home, and other small services poor soldiers could ill afford. -11k Credits Financial Actions Building 2 Heavy Industry -10k, 2 B Building 1 Luxury Industry -5k, 1 B 3 E spent to outfit Ground Forces with Arc Lance support units. Importing 15 Units of Food on Senate’s Fixed Price Bill. -3k If any is lost to pirates more will be shipped in this year. Treasury +80k

House Matareka Imperial Takakasi Province Lord Ihorangi Matareka looks through the hardened glass of his Flagships observation rotunda. He never got tired of the view in FTL, usually spending his time in Rotundas like this one. The anticipation came first, lines of comm officers making final checks. One could feel the ship powering up, almost as if it was hungry to race the stars. Finally, the point of acceleration, a heavy weight on the chest and mind. All erupting into a beautiful myriad of blue and gold as the system is passed within minutes. Lord Matareka’s favorite was after this, when it all dissolved into a luminous tunnel of blue streaks. One could lose themselves for hours studying the various patterns and flares of the phenomenon. Suddenly his concentration is broken by a commotion. “It’s ok, let them in” Lord Matareka says with a sigh. His head of security, Jack Fauchex, knew he liked his quiet time here. So he would usually shoo away visitors or people looking to talk to their Lord. But Ihorangi knew he could afford very few luxuries of late. His people were starving in one of the Empire’s worst famines, and he was on his way to the Galaxies largest war front. “Sir, I present you Lady Taimana Matareka” Captain Fauchex belts out. One could here the uncertainty in his voice, usually never a trait descried to the Captain. At that name Lord Matareka jumps up, clearly unsettled. “Hello Father” Taimana begins, clearly reveling in his shock. “I-“. Before she can go further, she is cut off by the loud bark of Ihorangi’s voice. “WHAT are you doing here? I gave you express orders to remain on Takakasi.” Holding up her hands placatingly, and looking less smug, she says. “I did not want to spend the year with farmers discussing crop cycles. I came to do what our House has done for millennia, Fight!”. And she was clearly bedecked for it. Lady Taimana was a beautiful heiress to the Matareka Estates. Tall, with curly dark hair, hazel eyes, and a athletic frame. She wore a tight fit body glove, in the colors of House Matareka. At her hip was a heirloom Arc Blade, and a modified heavy pistol. Admiring his daughter even in his anger, Lord Ihorangi says in a softer tone; “I understand your need Taimana, but you need to think of the needs of our People first. They need leadership from their lords now more than ever. Going to Buath is something I must do, for our House.” He finishes with a long sigh. “You should of won the elections, you should be the one sitting on Kuamai! Not willfully putting yourself to some fanatics whims.” Taimana angrily states, planting her hands on her hips. Smiling at her ferocity, Ihorangi replies; “It is one of thousands of elections I have been in. Do not speak ill of the Kavan Te, he is a wise man, wise enough to recognize my value even as a political opponent. I go to serve the Empire, Kavan Te, and the soldiers. Even if I lost personal gain, our duty is to protect the Empire from the xeno menace.” He smiles, putting his arm around his Daughter and walking them out of the Rotunda. “Well if you are already here, we have much to discuss. Anyway, who did you leave in charge of affairs while we are gone?” “Seneschal Hamuera” Taimana says with a laugh. “I wonder how he’s holding up, we better wish him luck.” Lord Ihorangi says with a slight frown. – Seneschal Ahuru Hamuera studies the hundredth corpse in a line hundreds longer. Holding a perfumed handkerchief to his mouth, him and a team of Matereka travel this dirt path. All around them thousands of acres of crops lay in fallow patches. The stench of rotting vegetation and bodies was sickening, worse than an open sewer. For the millionth time Ahuru cursed Taimana Matareka. The arrogant heiress used him as a plaything, taking advantage of his role to her Father. When she was not using him in the bedroom, she often used him to do her more boring chores. This “Boring Chore” to her was one the House took seriously. The Famine was getting worse, and only so much food could be imported. The loyal people of the House were starving in droves, even with their Lords doing everything they could to help. And so Ahuru had to placate the survivors, tally the dead, and try to manage the renewed farming programs. Vomiting on the side of the road, he sighs wearily and continues to inspect the long line of dead.... – Income; 61,500 Imperial Credits 3 B, 3 E, 7 M Mod Actions House Matareka sends a desperate plea to their neighboring worlds and merchants passing through. They need immediate food relief, the famine killing thousands. [-19] The lack of food was so severe they were down to eating boots and rats. Converting 1 E into Arc Lances for Flagship. Financial Actions Building 3 Heavy Industry in sole Agri World. -15k C, 3 B Treasury +60,000

Application: Starting Systems: 22 D, 12 C, 13 C, 14 C, 15 C, 1 C, 2 C, 3 C, 4 C, 21 B Point Distributions (21 Total): Loyalty: 5 Influence: 5 Military: 5 Leadership: 6 Infrastructure: Your Stellarch (Their name + Personal backstory): Stellarch Ihorangi Matareka “Scourge of the Irearch” This shining example of House Matareka is still by most standards a young man. Only twenty-three, he has achieved much in his short years. Like most nobles within the house, he was whisked away to military academy at an early age. It was there he soon proved a leader and adept soldier. Paired with University in later years, the aspiring Lord was one of righteous zeal, but benign rule. A charismatic and attractive boy, he made friends wherever he went. Following the tradition of the House and all nobles before him, he joined the Imperial Armies fresh out of University. It was there he truly began to excel. Leading entire companies at an early age, he would fight and lead from the front. Always eager to take the fight to the Irearch, his troops came to love and respect him. Never one to waste lives, or ask his soldiers to do what he wouldn’t. By twenty he was a General sponsored by House Matareka. However after the death of his father, Ihorangi was called back to the Province to rule. Apointed Stellarch at Twenty-one, Lord Ihorangi Matareka has proven he can also excel in a domestic setting. With his guidance, the loyal and happy people of Takakasi have grown and flourished. Provincial Culture: The Province of Takakasi is one of ancient and noble stock. Even before the space age House Matareka was a well endowed Noble House within the Capital of Kuamai. Born and bred aristocrats, they ruled with a benign grip. At the start of Exodus, the Noble House was more than willing to uproot. Already the Inner Core was growing stale of growth and ambition. And so with their people in tow they migrated North. Here is one the legacy of the House truly takes shape. Ardent Technocrats, the House helped in many of the enhancements to Space Age tech the galaxy knows so well today. Always keen to gather the brightest minds, many of the Matareka worlds became tech worlds. It is here education and innovation have become key pillars of society. It is also here their legacy of Military prowess and achievement really start to shine. They were for centuries on the frontier of the nort, in direct contact with the Ireach. The two races hated each other, both ardent xenophobes. Every year border conflict and raids would crop up. And every year more and more aristocrats from the house went to Imperial Academies, and returned to fight. In this pattern the House became more and more a War-Hawk and boast an illustrious list of generals. “Technology and Martial Might” Soon became the motto of the House. Every heir and promising family member is now whisked away to train at academies, and also learn at university. The people themselves bring all the proud and ancient traditions of the Inner Core and Empire. While the Aristocrats lounge and rule, the lower classes live life in harmony. Proud to call Matareka their lords, this great example of symbiosis has propelled all classed forward into power and wealth. Millions of common men enlist in the Matareka armies, and have grown to know war just as well as they do. And even more are given scholarships to University, where they prove their intelligence. Human Variants?: PURE Human Unique Military Units (Two): Ahorangi Pikes [Elite Heavy Infantry]; Ever since even the steel age the Pikemen have been a useful military arm of House Matareka. Obviously now not using pikes in the space age, they still proudly bear the name of their Ancestors. These Heavy Infantry are brutal shock units, catering to close range styles of war. They prefer Arc Blades and Power Armor, a costly but effective armament for their tactics. As well as shot guns, smgs, and other close range projectiles. They excel in boarding, orbital deployment into hot zones, and acting as shock infantry on the front lines of large scale wars. Waka Destroyers; The backbone of any proper Matareka fleet. These Destroyers are proficient in long range warfare, the entire ship catered to high power kinetic weaponry. Often in the rear or far flanks of lines, these ships can out range even ship classes above them. Making them an effective ‘Sniper’ Ship. Pick a number between 1-10: 3

Sumiyoshi Clan Takashima and the Shi pact worked their way through the underworld of the Capital. Last year they had spent training and preparing. They were no grunt soldier or specialist. Instead they have been well versed in espionage, infiltration, and deciphering. The Rebel threat may have been purged, but no one believed the roots had been uplifted. And now the Kyodai and his men had to go deeper. Wending their way through various districts, they arrive at their choice spot. A dingy hab district dedicated to housing hundreds of homeless. It was also a great source for intel, the eyes and ears of an entire underworld. Takashima just hoped he could get answers before it was too late.... The Rebels had been purged, their families dishonored. In the aftermath it was up to Takamoto herself to repairs the wounds. But if any thought purifying the blood line would be merciful, they were sorely mistaken. All Rebel assets, funds, and servants are seized by the Sumiyoshi Clan. A veritable treasure trove, the Rebels clearly no longer could use it. Being generous, a portion is given to the Yashida for their help. The more prominent Sumiyoshi Clansmen also get their due. The rest go right to state treasury for more growth. Saito Yushi had perhaps the most thankless job. With more and more mines undwerway, the Sumiyoshi army was growing. Thankless, but a massive honor for one of her breeding. Resolute to not mess up, Saito brutally begins to train the new recruits. Day in and day out they march, drill, shoot, repeat. They parade all over the Realm, to remind any surviving rebels what they were up against. – Population; 56,275,441 Income; 79,500 AP; 2 Mod Actions !!! Takashima and Shi Pact [Trained from last year] begin investigating leads to terrorist cells and leadership behind Rebel attacks in Capital’s underworld. Rebel Assets are seized and liquidated into funds. After the Yasdhida, and Sumiyoshi Captains get their due, the left over funds are assessed and put into treasury. Financial Actions Recruiting 5k T3 V1 Regulars -9k Recruiting 500 Ground Armor -7k Building 1 Farm -5k Building 7 Civ Industry -52.5k Treasury +6k

Sumiyoshi Clan *Inspector Takeshi Kido stiffly appraised the room of officers in front of him. After the terrorist and rebel attacks, the Clan’s superiors were quite worried. It would seem soldiers and respect were no longer enough. In this new post devastation age much has changed. Though tradition is honored above all else, it was acknowledged some change is needed. And thus Mr. Kido was appraised as the right man for the job. A loyal friend of the Clan, and a big time earner to boot. Now his job would be to hand pick an elite force. Comprised of the most loyal and talented Sumiyoshi Clan members. Mostly distant cousins, family, and friends of the Sumiyoshi. As this task force forms, so to does their training. All year they will spend in intense courses on counter terrorist matters. The Shi Pact has officially been formed. **Meanwhile however there was no luxury of time. Already Takamoto was ordering the reconstruction of her prized Capital. To see it hurt so was a huge anger to the Clan. This city was their pride and joy, the jewel of the realm. As civilians rebuild, the army is still very much a presence. Under Takashima’s zealous guidance, they are tracking down every single lead they have. Using captured rebels, they are trying to ascertain the locations of any hideout cells left in the city. They will be brutally and swiftly dealt with when found. Furthermore they begin to look into the terrorist attacks. And leads there are promised to be rewarded in large cash hand outs. With the Civil War ending, the Sumiyoshi Clan emerges stronger and more focused. The Blood Line had been purified, allowing for much smoother business. Now the time grow and consolidate had at long last arrived. The factories and armories begin to churn out the products of war and economy. - Pop; 54,636,350 Income; 80k Mod Actions *Founding Shi Pact. A loyal and effective counter terrorist organization specializing in rooting out insurgencies. -12.5k **Takashima and veteran Regulars begin to locate and clear out any hold out Rebel cells in Realm. They also look for leads on Terrorist attacks from 2 years ago. Financial Actions Rebuilding 3 Damaged Civ Industry -22.5k Rebuilding Commercial District -10k Building 2 Mines -10k Building 2 Heavy Foundry -15k Treasury +10k

Sumiyoshi Clan Kyodai Takashima strolls with purpose down the decrepit halls of Shiro Takosumi. He was fresh home from two glorious battles, victor of both. And now it would seem his Shateigashira placed more trust on him. For he had been handed his next assignment within minutes of landing. It seems the bloodshed would not end for the young Ace. And with this responsibility brings him to this old castle. The Sumiyoshi Clan only dealt with it’s own family members and branches. And so they were filled into positions of power across the board. But as decades pass, newer and newer families sprout. Some with barely a drop of pure Sumiyoshi lineage. And with their increased stakes in the Yashida Family, it was decided to purify the blood. A ceremony that has not been done for centuries. A ceremony that cast a long and dark shadow...... The doors slam open, and Takashima strolls in surrounded by his Special Forces unit. A very bewildered Pinto Takosumi springs up from his chair. Reaching for something, he soon stops as several guns point at him. “Ahhhhh, Pinto! It has been a long time” Takashima begins, casually examining a curious lamp. “How long have our families been friends?” Takashima chuckles, finishing with. “Your memory must be short, we got your operations started. And now look at you.” Sighing, the Kyodai signals to his men. “W-ait Takashima iv’e be-“ The desperate mans screams are cut short as the troops light him up. Suddenly a hard crashing can be heard, the sound of Saito Yushi. Her and her bets pilots were slamming their mechs into the complex. Gunfire erupts everywhere, as an all out fight ensues. In just a few minutes the bloodshed is over. The Castle had been cleared of it’s family, and their operations. *Scenes like this were playing out across the Realm. The Purifying of the Blood has begun. The Aces Takashima and Saito begin to lead teams of Icarus Suits, and Special Forces Units. They are for now only targeting smaller clans on the fringe of the Sumiyoshi umbrella. Ones that do not pay taxes to the Clan, or are operating outside of the umbrella. An example was to be made of those not ready for the new era of Yashida/Sumiyoshi Radiance. - Takamoto Sumiyoshi, head of the Clan, inhaled the lovely steam rising from her cup. This Tea was from the fat south, a very rare strain. It was a present from Takashima for her rise to Shateigashira. It was well earned, her positioning had placed the Sumiyoshi into great favor. Their island was cleaned up of pirate filth, and the Yashida allowing them into their operations. And now she could relax, and watch her beloved city prosper. Looking out the window, the aura of neon lights, cars, and skyscrapers filled the vista. And every day more and more was being built or created. The Sumiyoshi were pouring their funds back into the prosperity of the Realm. - 41 P.D Pop; 51.5 Million Income; 86,500 Building 1 Farm -5k Building 10 Civ. Industry -75k Treasury +6.5k - Current Turn [42 P.D] Pop; 53,045,000 Income; 78,000 Mod Actions *Purifying the Blood [Purging low level Clan branches in outright dissent to Sumiyoshi] Agents of Kyodai Takashima are dispatched to the lands of Entropy Llt. These agents are no simple thugs or street men. But instead trained agents of the inner clan. Their goal is to simply embed in the Corporations main city, and find local contacts for crime. They are expressly forbidden from spying, or any other action that could be perceived as an attack on the state itself. Financial Actions 9 Civ. Industry -67.5k Treasury +10.5k

Sumiyoshi Clan Music 1 Bullets rip through the air, following a object hurtling through the sky itself. Dozens of soldiers manned post all over a small bit of city grid. Flak AA and missiles were being frantically shot into the air. What looked like a complete war-zone was perhaps not all to meet the eye. Dodging another bout of munitions, The Draco finally can be seen. A masterfully designed Icarus suit, resplendent in Red and White. The entire mech was sleekly curved, almost no intersections viewable. The entire mech seemed smooth and one piece. And just like that it was darting back into the skies. Sensors from it’s safety locked guns rang out, hitting multiple positions. But the troops did not die, their weapons and target systems simply shut down. The surviving targets doubled down, and more troops flooded in. The mock fire fight was lighting up now. A few mechs can even be seen dropping from the sky, hit by the blanks. “Red 4 move your team further right! The rest with me we’re darting back in” Takashima Sumiyoshi’s voice rang out across the shared comm networks. Leader of the infamous Lotus Corp, and a direct heir of the Clan itself. He spoke with fire in his voice, emotion tinging every word. He is the darling Ace of the Clan, their best rising pilot. And today he had possibly met his match. Old Takamoto was really testing him today. Every time the Corp made an attack run, they lost more. And the soldiers continued to pour in from bunkers around the training grounds. “Hold here and fire!” The Corp strung out in air, hovering as they unleashed the full range of their arbitrament. Across the grounds positions were being wiped out. But it was not enough, as the soldiers weapons began to find their mark too. With his corp dropping like stones, Takashima desperately kept scoping and firing on positions. In the blink of an eye the balance was shifted. Out of no where The Kaji flew out of it’s hiding place. Saito Yushi’s personal mech, a stark contrast to The Draco. It was far more squat, and angular. Rivets clamped each layer of steel at the joints. And the weapons were far more short range, not meant for elegant flying and long ranged shots. Saito and her Corp began to storm through positions targeting the Lotus Corp. With the combined arms, Takashima quickly sprung back into command. The training grounds are cleared, and everyone heads to the hangar... – Music 2 Saito Yushi eagerly clambers out of her mech, lighting incense on her way out. Greeting her is Saito’s personal mech crew. All close friends she had elevated from the menial Clan ranks. They had proven themselves alongside her, forging a name for The Kaji. The rest of her Corp did the same, gathering around Saito and her crew. “We did good today! Everyone get a drink on me tonight” The Cheers reached a higher pitch, until a hushed silence fell on them all. Takashima Sumiyoshi and his closest lieutenants had descended on the crowd from their own mechs. The lower caste of Saito’s Corp all dropped to their knees with heads bowed. A prime member of the Clan, one did not stand tall and try to look Takashima in the eyes. A once jubilant crowd now fell silent as one of their Lords angrily waded through them. Bowing deeply, Saito began to greet him. “Commander, congr-“ That was as far as she got before being cut off. “You too too long and cost me half my Corp! You knew the plan yet you and your dogs could not execute it. While my men were shot down you sulked in girders. Next time attack when I order it! I-“ And then something one does not see much of happened. The great Takashima was also dropping to his knees in stone cold silence. Takamoto Sumiyoshi herself was elegantly entering the hangar. Followed by her retinue, top generals, and government officials. The leader of the Sumiyoshi Clan, she was a true force to be reckoned with. For almost fifty years Takamoto has led her Clan to prestige and wealth. “Saito, congratulations on your victory” She crooned. “Takashima if her corp had sprung earlier, you all would of been eliminated.” Waving her hand in dismissal of the trivial subject, she snaps out. “Now you two come with me” Rising from their knees the two Corp commanders hastily follow their Matron as she heads to the Palace. “You two have been wasting enough time shooting at soldiers... I know you have been looking for more. Well I just so happen to have your next task.” The trio walks past the council room, surprising both the Aces. Finally they reach a small door, leading back to the hangar. Turning around, Takamoto begins. “I am sending both of you to the Yashida. We are sending them our best Aces and mechs to learn. And hopefully express our good will and trust with the family. Wait for the pilots to clear out, then head south at once.” – Neo Yokosaki was the beating heart of the Sumiyoshi Clan. And perhaps the most modern and aesthetic of the Fujian cities. Life went on 24/7 in this city, never stopping. Clubs, Stores, Casinos, they lit the sky up with their multicolored lights. At every level bridges and lanes of cars flooded the streetes. Massive towers overlooked the lower levels, shimmering in ads and commercials. Districts of commercial and residential blended and changed weekly, focused around armored hangars loaded with mechs. Any who travel to this strange city describe the lights and neon signs as a surreal dream world. Here drugs and crime went hand in hand, and was encouraged. Everything was run on a tight line however. Mobs of Sumiyoshi armsmen roamed the city, enforcing. At the heart of it all is the Clan’s Palace and gardens. A massive complex, blending nature and science into one. From here the numerous edicts roll out..... – Population; 50,000,000 Income; 60,000 Mod Actions Sending Aces Takashima and Saito to serve and learn under Yashida Family. Locally the Sumiyoshi Clan begins to tap into their organized crime empire. Across both cities, and the realm, Clan family members run local operations. They control the drug and human traffic supply. Most also own business, and participate in local government. This year the Clan needs to call on this ‘mafia’ network. They need to raise as much funds as possible for next year. And so Sumiyoshi regulars are sent to collect tribute from the multiple branches of crime within the Realm. A Council is called for all ex Fujian colonies. The desire to hold a private conference to discuss local matters. Research Actions [MOD PLEASE] [5 Points] Nephilite Passive slot; “Slag Missiles” A type of missile designed to be shot at high power under stress from a mech in cobat. The tip is filled with a melting charge. This is to better pierce Kaiju armor, before propelling the high explosive munition into the cut from the melt. [3 Points] Regular Tech Passive Slot; “T2 Jets” An entirely new line of Fighter Jet Aircraft. These planes are designed with improved targeting systems and flight tolerances. Their overhaul is to make them more of a threat to enemy Icarus Suits, Jets, and Airships. Player Actions A envoy is sent to Exotec Corporation. While there he makes the desires of the Sumiyoshi clan clear. Joint work on a mech project to keep both neutral nations safe. The proposed joint research project is on a new form of mech missile launcher. One powerful enough for even icarus suits to launch special missiles at kaiju. And if needed in defense against other human targets. Xi’an Provinces invited to Ex Fujian Colony Council. Financial Actions 2 Commercial Districts -20k 2 Trade Depots -20k 2 Civilian Manufacturing -15k Treasury +5k

Nation Name: Sumiyoshi Clan Government Type: Organized Crime Syndicate Leader: Takamoto Sumiyoshi Culture: Fujian/Yashida Roots The small but dedicated Sumiyoshi clan has been an integral cog of Fujian society. As far back as the dawn of their people, this clan was involved. The Clan has always been utterly dedicated to Zaibatsu and their family honor. Any Sumiyoshi honors the house caste and traditions. The Father and Mother of any given house dominate the choices and actions of their members. Families that grow big enough can have a single Matron looking over three generations worth of growth and ambition. It’s common at an early age for Sumiyoshi boys and girls to be trained in the arts of the clan and Fujian tradition. They are treated equally, and quite ruthlessly. Any not found up to standards of the clan get cast into outsider roles. Those who succeed and even excel receive the most attention. In this way every generation raises the next to the high standards their ancestors set for the Clan. History; The Clan prospered for centuries off the isolationist way of their people. The Clan was always however on the outlier, the frontier. Not content to sit back in splendor, the Sumiyoshi always sought for more. This was largely how they made their way, plundering treasures from the wonders of the world. And then using it to exert wealth and power to their family. They were some of the first to shed the isolationist ways. Pirates and black market crime lords unofficially. As time went on The Clan adapted with the technology and needs of it’s people. Always quick to strike new deals, procure new tech, invest in new methods. And it has almost always paid off, leaving Sumiyoshi a prime member of the emerging Yashida Syndicate. As colonies began to grow, this was a massive opportunity for the clan. Uprooting from the homeland, the Clan migrated it’s wealth and power to their own little fiefdom. Far away from the prying eyes of Fujian nobility, they grew in prosperous peace. It was here that the Sumiyoshi truly became a Crime Family. Their operations were so embedded in Fujian operations, they were seen as a need. With the advent of mech technology, everything changed yet again. Now the clan focuses on making the finest mechs, and training the best aces. Groups or places of interest: To be revealed in RP Key Figures (3 people with points): Takamoto Sumiyoshi; The hard line leader of the Clan. She is a matron of now three generations worth of Sumiyoshi. Elderly, but not weak, many learn to fear her. From the Clan palaces on their estate her decrees and law ecos out. [Leadership; 6 Charisma; 6] Takashima Sumiyoshi; The darling Ace of the entire Clan. He is a skilled mech suit pilot, wielding the Unique Sumiyoshi Suits since an early age. He is a direct heir of the legendary Takamoto, her being his great grandmother. Usually leads military expeditions, and trains new mech fighters. [Leadership 4 Martial; 5 Agility; 3] Saito Yushi; The illegitimate daughter of a disclosed Sumiyoshi Clan member. Her mother was of sufficient ranking that she was allowed to live. Saito was taken into the lower echelons of the clan. But like any child in the Realm, she was appraised for mech training. It was apparent early on her skills even matched Takashima. Though she had far less easy access, she too has risen to Ace status over the years. [Martial 6 Charisma 3 Agility 3] Point Distribution: Eco; 5 Size; 5 Military; 10 Nephilite Industry; 5 Technology; 3 Loyalty ; 2 Nat Idea: “Ace of Hearts” +5 Ace Cap, -50% Ace Price Reduction Total Unique Units (3): Hatori Gunships; Well armored and very mobile airships. Their purpose is to carry mechs in deployment pods. The Gunships will speedily deploy or extract mechs during a fight. Their secondary role is the use of their heavy armaments. Utilizing this weaponry they offer close aerial support to the mechs they drop off. Takeda Suits; The Unique brand of the Sumiyoshi mech building power. These suits are one of a kind, and can only be built by master Clan mech-smiths. The suit is a far better crafted version of the Icarus suit. Takeda suits are faster, more maneuverable, and pack more of a punch. They are hand tailored to the Ikikomo Knights that pilot them, forming a deadly unique combo. Ikikomo Knights; The most elite mech suit fighters from the esteemed Clan ranks. These Knights are trained from practically birth for the high stress of Mech warfare. They are trained to rely on pure instinct and data reading in real time. Very few graduate the schools, but those that do are already well on the road to becoming Aces. Starting Location: Will discuss in PM Are Mechs superior to tanks?: Japan 😉

Chitiki Trying to quietly catch her breath, Margaret clutches her knees in a desperate frenzy. All she can hear is the steady drip of water from stalagmites. In any other situation it could of ben a comforting, steady drip. In any other situation she would be enjoying this wonderful place. The cave systems here were like ones she had never seen before. Fauna and even small life was around every corner, focused around pools of still water. Crevices and cracks could lead one deeper and deeper into the system. Margaret was part of a team of explorers hired by a private mind. The contract had seemed so simple, in the comforts of a Wymon Port. It was a simple job, assemble a team, and investigate a sight. Her husband, Jameson Gallo, was selected to lead the entire endeavor. Their goal was rumors of some place deep in The Shield mountains. Shrouded in mystery, the entire region was an enigma. One of rumor and dark superstition. And so the Gallos had resolved to shed light on the region. With the ample funding a small caravan formed around their efforts. Swords were hired, for The Shields were always a dark land. Friends of Mr. Gallo, fellow archaeologist, explorers, they all wanted a piece of the pie. With supplies and finance settled, they set out without further problems. Those were the best days, Margaret reflects. Every night a different Inn, with their fine company. The days breezed by, every night filled with debate about the land they were soon to enter. Many laughed off the more serious undertones of darkness surrounding The Shields. Many chalked it off to beast catching stray wanderers, and left it at that. Others were not so sure, but were sure to sleep with a weapon near. Soon enough the caravan got a taste of truth. The inns, roads, outpost, they ran out quick enough. Following the Drakken river north, they were met with many sights. Foothills as far as the eye could see to the east, eventually leading to a dominating presence. The Shields was like a literal wall on the periphery, brooding and dark. To the west was the river, a slow and deep affair. The further they got from civilization, the rougher it became. The land was untamed, not a farm in sight. They felt completely alone, besides with the beast. Eventually the caravan reached their turning point. A few dozen leagues south of the Drakken’s fork, they were to finally branch east. East, into The Shields.... Following a few local hunters they had paid, they are led deeper into the foothills. The going becomes very tough, the wagons primarily struggling. After a few days of slogging, they reach where the Hunters have a small camp. They refuse to go any further, citing they have never done so. Now working off purely rumor and speculation, Jameson and Margaret Gallo hold hands and lead their company deeper in. A few days pass by, and they are fully in the Shields. But their situation had grown rougher by each step. Eventually it was decided the Caravan would make camp. Holding the supplies safe, they make a circle. From there the Gallos and their team strike deeper in on horse. It was very quickly then when the caves were discovered. At first there was only small holes, and little ravines. But as they went further, the amount of openings increased. Soon they passed entire cave entrances, shooting off in every direction. Curious, but resolute, they stuck to their route. Eventually they were however forced to enter the caves. Going ever deeper, the wonder of these places was unknown to human. Strange critters of every size flooded the walls and floors. Moving in hive like manners, scrounging food and moisture from the cave. Staring in wonder, a few of the guards trampled them. Clearing out quickly, the reunite heard for the first time the sound of a chittering mass. Thinking nothing of it besides base instinct, they head a day or two deeper in. One of these nights as her husband lay asleep beside her, Margaret feels something. Like a passing breeze, just a quick prickling of sensation on her skin. But something so.. foreign, that she almost believed she had dreamed it. The next day they reached where even the rumors and speculation ran out. No more fishwives tales of particular caves, or directions. Nothing but their intuition. Resolute, they keep to a series of caves leading deeper into the Shields. Around lunch time, the party makes camp for lunch. With nothing but glowing fauna, and lamps, it was a dim affair. A day ago the last of the natural light had ran out, no more holes breaching the surface. It was then, when they heard that same chittering noice. Like a thousand beetles flying right at them. A few laughed saying they would have to squish a few more. But it became apparent the waves of insects were passing through. At great speed, going right over the people and their lunch. Then it got silent again, everyone staring in wonder at the passing cloud. A few minutes of silence and resume eating continues, before a second noise is heard. This time perhaps a bit more on edge, they huddle up as the men draw their swords. All they can hear at first is the faint scratching noise emanating from the stone itself. The brief crack of rock, before a far more grinding sound is heard. Within a minute the sound becomes far more keen, and the guards start crying out in alarm. But then everything stops, and silence resume again. Throwing a torch down the tunnel, nothing is seen. Just as the guards start to sheathe their swords, entirely more sinister noises reach their ears. Screeches, and the clacking of numerous mandibles. Then all the sudden neat holes bore through the ceiling in several places. And beast the likes they have never seen before snake out. Armored in some form of organic carapace, with a few razor sharp mandibles. Rows of teeth, and a long multi legged body behind. They snake out lighting quick, grabbing people, and yanking them to the cave roof. Screaming is quickly cut off, as the unfortunate souls get impaled or their throats slit by fangs. Anarchy breaks out as the soldiers start to ward off the beast with flame and blade. The creatures are methodical, boring around through the stone to dart out and strike. Desperately gathering the women, Jameson Gallo and his men continue to fight. Soon though they hear more sounds coming down the tunnel. The torch previously thrown, now illuminates a scene of nightmares. Dozens more of the centipede like beast crawled across every inch of the tunnel. And what was even worse, was what was with them. Vaguely humanoid, colored like the cave and fauna around them. They had mantis like heads, with large eyes. Sleek, and short, they ran, and slithered on the cave walls/roof. Carrying cruel looking weapons, they hurried the pack of beast in front of them. “Get the Women safe, we’ll hold them hear!” Mr. Gallo rings out to his men. More then happy to run, they take the women with them. Margaret’s last sight is her husband and several men standing before the encroaching tide of death. As they round the corner, the screams begin anew. Panicking like trapped beast, everyone soon focuses on themselves. Splitting off, they run in blind routes. Soon enough the beast start to bore through the stone, cutting people off or ambushing them. Margaret simply runs deeper and deeper in, not caring. And that is how she finds herself now. Trying to catch her breath in a desperate frenzy. All of the sudden she hears noises not her own or the caves. But it sounded familiar, footsteps! Sobbing and panting, Margaret stands up, and runs to the light coming for her. A battered but alive Jameson Gallo walks down the tunnel, clutching a torch. “James, James!” Margaret cries in joy as she leaps to embrace him. But as she holds her husband, she gets the same tingling feeling on her skin. Like that one night a fe days back. And the illusion shatters, and a beast is revealed before her. This one far different then the ones that had hunted them. This one wore some clothes over it’s Carapace armor. Dark eyes reviewed her, giving away nothing. It’s face was a mockery of mans, riddled with insectoid features. It’s mouth ringed in mandibles that were currently clacking. Stepping back in horror, Margaret backs into something else. Turning around, is one of the other scholars wife. Some strange leech was clasped around her spine, wriggling and making noises. The beast holding her clacks a few ties. With tears in her eye, the women sobs out. “W-we weren’t supposed to be here.” Screaming the two are taken far deeper down then they could ever imagine. Into a world of nightmare, and surprising richness. But eventually they are taken to a deep and foul smelling cave. A far more Organic entrance leads further in. On the other side, sacks of glistening organic matter nestle around braziers. Within them, they can see huddled forms, connected to the sack by an umbilical. Screaming the two are thrown through the entrance, where two organic pipes quickly silence them by latching on. They are hoisted into the air, where they stare in mute horror. For around them is the entire caravan, some also looking around in pure terror. While others are already white husk, all their matter leading straight to whatever in prisoned them. –

Nation Name: Chitiki Government Type: Whomever Is Strongest Magic Type: Form [Specialty Subfield being Change] Deviant Trait; Carapace Armor [All units naturally have T 3.5 armor, but can’t wear any form of conventional armor.] Leader: Thalhlhejae Lakkucoa Culture: The Chitiki are a warped and deranged species, devoid of all basic humanity. Instead they have long ago shed such things as morality on their distant island. Instead they learned hate, violence, above all else Change. It is considered the highest of honors to have one’s body completely changed into the likeness of their supposed gods. For every few years strange creatures would hit their shores, taking whatever they find. More and more the Chitiki were cut off from the mainland, and anything close to civilization and progress. Instead they began to devolve into their primal roots. Survival, raw magic, change, death, this is the creed of the Chitiki. In current day there is nothing human about the Chitiki. Deviants, they have been completely formed by the land and it’s magic. There is no government, generals, politicians, nothing like that. Instead they all work in synch, and respect one thing; Power. Any who can be bold enough to change their forms, and seize power, rule. Loyalty is strict to the current Don, no Chitiki were much for cloak and dagger. Instead there is official challenges, formally made. Very few ever try this, the Don usually being the most powerful and magically imbued Chitiki alive. History: The Chitiki were originally humans on the very easternmost frontier of the Aeton Empire. Simple fishers and crafters, they paid their taxes and were left alone. As such perhaps they were a sheltered and weak peoples, reliant on the Empire for protection. This pattern developed until the very start of the terrible Cataclysm. The ripples were felt across the known world, not even the Chitiki were safe. Soon enough warlords saw their ample food and population as targets. Not things to protect. Yearly the Chitiki were losing their soul piece by piece. And so the survivors decided to stay was to die. As a brave rearguard fought off hordes of Imperials, their people gathered every ship and supply they could. In a massive and unorganized migration, the Chitiki are thrown into the oceans. Never straying far from the coast and fishing areas, they were not prepared. And many say this was the start of change within the Chitiki. This day marked the end of living in luxury and complacency. And the beginning of survival and death. Barely a third of their population eventually drifts ashore on this blasted island. Already they are beset by plague, starvation, and severely exposed to the elements. Wood was scare were they landed, forcing them to use their ships. But even that was not enough, as thousands arrived every day on the coast. And so year after year more and more follow Mages into the mountains. There they promise safety from the elements and exposure. A series of caves proliferate nearby hills and mountains. With food and water nearby, it made sense to migrate. It is here in these dark and quiet caves that the form change begins to take place. The Mages seen as prophets have fully enraptured the Chitki. And with the reveal of Insectoid Gods coming to kill and reave, they saw true power and strength. And sought to alter themselves in this form. And piece by piece, evil is born. As the centuries roll on human becomes deviant. And the change would be appalling to any human. Groups or places of interest: ‘Llyrrad Caves’ – The homeland of the majority of the Chitiki race. Originally it was a large but shallow array of honey combed caves on the sides of hills and mountains. But as the Chitiki warped more and more, so too did their tools. Eventually organic drills of beast shaped the earth for them, just like their magic did to flesh. Now it is an entire net work of deep caves, roads, and farms. Entire cities sprawl under the earth, safely entombed in their mountains. Key Figures (3 people with points): Thalhlhejae Lakkucoa – Don of the Chitiki, a fearsome warrior and mage. Leadership 1, Martial Skill 5, Charisma, Arcane Skill 6, Agility 1 Ninltkim Semmiheu – Chief Magi of the Chitiki. Responsible for altering citizens and beast with the blessing of change. Leadership , Martial Skill , Charisma 3, Arcane Skill 10, Agility Dhaunrysn Zechchenoa – Architect of the vast Cave network and all it’s workers. He commands the domestic front for the Don, building and growing the hives. Leadership 5, Martial Skill, Charisma 5, Arcane Skill 3 , Agility Starting Points; Loyalty 5 Magical Knowledge 10 Technological Expertise Size 10 Economy Sea-Faring Military 5 Nat Idea; [Can’t Trade] “Flesh Pits” [Replaces Tradepost] A Unique building found in most Chitiki cities. All organic material not needed for consumption is fed into the maws of a living building like structure. It is engineered by the Form Mages to suit their genetic and utility purposes. [Any excess food can be fed into the pits to produce a yearly amount of medium infantry or gold] 1 excess food unit = 150 Medium Infantry or 2,500 gold? Unique Units (3): [Special] Grouxilix Thrashers – Giant mole like beast corrupted beyond recognition by the Magi. Their sole purpose is to burrow, dig, shape earth, etc. This is used to expand the ever growing under-world, and can also be used in war. Their spawn start out very small, but soon grow into massive beast, feeding off the stone and earth. [Special] Kraiknak Banshees – Very fast and large centipede like creatures. They are nightmare fuel, with plenty of fangs, spikes, and sharpened legs. Their armored carapace is particularly hard, and they can scale tunnels and walls with ease. They are spawned in large packs, and accommodate the Thumiean on their hunting. They also can burrow through rock, wood, etc for short periods of time. Leading to very interesting hunting techniques. [Special] Thumiean – The most elite and powerful Chitiki in the land. They are very rare, having to go through a life of training and form corruption. The end product however is small groups of incredibly hardened infantry. Small in number, but awe inspiring in skill, they are not exactly the massive insectoids one would think. Instead they are sleek, agile, and powerful in a corded way. Able to use all their appendages to traverse things like tunnel roofs. They are attuned to the reality aspect of Form Magic. Using their mastery of working with illusion spells to pick off far more numerical foes. Starting Location: [Discord] What is my Favorite color?: White [Power]

Crimson Order Income; 70,862 6 AP 1,500 Veteran Ordermen Pikes -36k 3 AP 1,500 Stormriders -22.5k 3 AP 3,000 Levys -12k Treasury +362

Last Turn 89k C, 30 M, 35 F Pop; 212304030.1202 1 Heavy Cruiser -8 M, 24k C 1 Light Cruiser -4 M, 10k C 1 Krarnik Assualt Ship -2 M, 7k M 2 Destroyers -4 M, 12k C 4 Frigates -4 M, 16k C 5 Corvettes -5 M, 12.5k C Treasury +7.5k 7.5k C, 2 M, 35 F This Year 61.5k C, 7 M, 40 F 3 Mining Ships -30k C 2 Business Modules -30k Treasury +1.5k MOD Actions The battered and defeated Reaver fleet retreats to the sterile world they have found. For the past two years the garrison left there has not been idle. Now with the resources of the fleet returned, they set to fully repairing and plundering this automated world.

Crimson Order of Schwarzburg-Sondershausen The Lord General of the Crimson Order and his Great Captains have been busy for years now. Their single minded goal has driven them to many ruthless ends. But in the end they had begun to achieve what they set out for. The Crimson Army was shaping up to be a truly fearsome fighting force. Rank upon rank of seasoned troops in expert crafted armor march in long lines. Every year thousands more join the call to arms. No more can the Free Companies be relied upon to work and fight together. Now a disciplined and unified standing army guards the Duchy, and is supplied off it’s power. As the army swells to greater and greater numbers, other things are changing rapidly in the Order. For so long the Civil War had wracked the realm with death and famine. Decades of conflict burning the land and entire generations to ash. Only so recently with the formation of the Crimson Order had things begun to regrow. But even then, it was under an uneasy military coalition, ruling through a Ducal mouth piece. But the people of the Duchy were not all mindless sheep, to be herded here and there. Fears were rising with Mer’ak and it’s failed assassination attempts. As well as unending war and looming threats to the west. No more could local mercenary Captains in charge of a few hundred men be relied upon. And even more so, their ranks were being stripped for the main Army. With all this brewing few educated Noblemen and Knights wanted to take orders from Mercenaries. More and more their support was solidifying behind a central figurehead. Duke Gottfried however was still abroad in his travels, unable to foster this support. Regardless Low level nobles and mercenaries begin to butt heads in the more rural areas. Disputes on taxes, and the ever growing demand for the materials of war. With the Dukes daughter potentially marrying a King, many wanted a far more regal Realm. One where they elevate the Duke and Nobility caste into the center of power. For now however, the Crimson Order and it’s Council keep a tight grip on the developed lands. Duke Gottfried Sondershausen – Population; 11,940,523 Income; 98,100 11 AP Financial Actions Recruiting 2k Free Company Pikes -4 AP, -36k Recruiting 1k Medium Cavalry -2 AP, -17k Recruiting 500 Crimson Strings -2 AP, 10k Recruiting 500 Archers -1 AP, -5k Recruiting 250 Veteran Heavy Cavalry -2 AP, -26k Treasury +100

Groukoxxot Clan Star Lord Yauk Groxxollix disembarks from his drop pod, boots slamming some concrete to dust. Behind him several more soldiers spring from the pod. Above them the entire fleet can be seen in its majesty. The Assault Ships hang far lower, disgorging tens of thousands of troops. Spread across the city, they are to establish beachheads in the ruins. As they do the grunt work, the Star Lord is on far bigger goals. Scientist and scouts work in teams to scour the city inch by inch. They will record anything they find, and send it back to a central survey hub. From there operations to secure and search the city will roll out like clockwork. A brief time to get off ship meant rowdiness amongst the ranks. Many fights and shouting matches were breaking out between squads. Knives were pulled, pistols fired into the air. Roving bands of undisciplined troops tromp around the city leaving graffiti. Seeing this mob as a challenge to his new rule, Lord Yauk orders his elites in. They clear the mobs disrupting the city process, and round them back up for transport to orbit. This rife however secured what the Star Lord was thinking. They needed to find a live planet, and soon. Leaving mobs of pirates here would only result in them tearing each other apart. And so while a strong force is left to garrison and survey the planet, the Reave Fleets set out once more. Their goal has been achieved of reaching the inner rim of the Galaxy. Far more star clusters hopefully promised life. And so the search begins yet again, one that has taken decades.. - Population; 212304030.1202 Income; 61k 11 M, 40 F Mod Actions Scouts and Scientist begin to survey and garrison the discovered abandoned city. The Reaver fleets move due west from the abandoned city sector, searching the Inner Rim for any ships, or quantum comms activity. Financial Actions Building 2 Fighter Wings -2M, 10k C Building 1 Heavy Cruiser -8 M, 24k C Building 1 Frigate -1 M, 4k C Building 3 Mining Ships -30k C Treasury +3k C, 1 M, 40 F

Crimson Order of Schwarzburg-Sondershausen This year marks the start of what may be a drastic change within the Duchy. Duke Gottfried and his retinue have travelled all the way to Antramar for the feast this year. But it was also a significant power play within the Order. The Duke was a major shareholder, but essentially a puppet to the Order. For years now however, Herr Gottfried had been pulling every single string he could. And it all culminates today. His family have officially offered a marriage contract to the strange southern mountain clans. Paired with the King of Antramar’s invite, it showed he was still a major piece in the game. The days of roving Free Companies operating on their own are long over. Centralized statehood and Industrialization has come for the Order like it does for all....... - Population; 11,592,741 Income; 100,500 5 Ap Mod Actions 500 of the expert Stormriders are sent to scout the land leading up to the nation of Mer’ak. Under strict orders not to cross borders, they are there to survey. Anything they can find of value, major roads, towns, etc. Financial Actions 500 Heavy Infantry T3 Regulars -20k, 4 AP 250 Veteran T3 Free Company Pikes -11k, 1 AP 10 Civ Factories -75k Treasury +4.5k 79.500

Groukoxxot Clan The sprawling fleet of the Clan has clustered together in this lonely sector. For decades they had travelled the vast expanse of space. And all they have found was what was expected. More empty sectors, more asteroid belts and moods orbiting lifeless rocks. The only thing of note was the intense variety of stars. One could spend a lifetime trying to map them all out. Many of the Clan took to etching the various stars they have visited onto their scales. This sector was quite like any other, but not for it’s inhabitants. After such a long journey, council had been called on The Agorso. The Oasis Ships and Fleet of the Groukoxxot was a fearsome sight to behold. Amassed in one sector, they seemed to dominate it’s expanse. The Oasis Ships were of a truly massive scale. Cylindrical in shape, with rotating links to create some level of gravity. They held millions of Alduu’uuranean each, all small parts of this massive organism. Each Oasis Ship was a power in it’s own right, with a Owner at it’s helm. The three prime factions of the Groukoxxot held an Oasis ship in their clutches. Jealously and greed was high between the three. And with such a long lapse in raiding, this was especially so. The reason they were all gathering is to make a choice for the Clan’s future. Former Star Lord Kuuhisk Ukzakoaz For years now tensions had been brewing on the Agorso. Star Lord Kuuhisk Ukzakoaz had been keeping the factions in line with a mix of skills. But they were chafing under such cloistering stagnation. It was true they had been improving the worldships, and their lives. But it was not the way of the Alduu’uuraen to sit quietly and build. And that was ever more apparent last year and this. Coryphaus Yauk Groxxollix and his faction had finally garnered enough support. Appealing to everyone of promised raids and loot. A life where they take, and rest on superior laurels. One where they do not grovel to one Star Lord. One who has ruled the Clans for too long, and too quietly. And it is so that this year marks a momentous change. After almost four decades, a new Star Lord is elected. Star Lord Yauk Groxxollix was a far different breed then Kuuhisk. But he was a smart one, not prone to making enemies he can’t afford. And as such he grants Kuuhisk the title of ‘Star Warden’. He and the Agorso would remain behind, in this desolate sector. They will begin to construct a nest int he Sector that any Aluu’uuraen could call home. The start of the first of many. A place where none would dare to go, and all will fear. Meanwhile the Star Lord and his reaver fleet set out for the first time in years. They would carry the majority of the Oasis Ships and troops. The ships ensuring they could produce throughout the year as they travel. Having explored the rim for decades, not one soul had been found. It seemed the new Star Lord was taking a more direct approach. Instead of poaching for trade lanes, he would look for the homes themselves. And as such, the fleet heads for the inner rim of the galaxy. Where far more stars, and life could hopefully be found. Star Lord Yauk Groxxollix - 2206 212304030.1 Pop 59k Income 15 M, 34 F Mod Actions Reaver Fleet begins heading south, towards the Inner Rim. Every sector on their path is briefly scouted for life or minerals as they travel. Passive Research [5 Tech] [New Project] ‘Heavy Infantry’ [New Project] T1 Ship Missile Swarms Specialized gun turrets meant for launching large amounts of missiles able to move in the demands of void warfare. These turrets will act as secondary systems to the main armaments. Financial Actions Recruiting 100k Trained Regulars -12k Recruiting 50k Trained Lights -5k Recruiting 1.5 Tanks -1 M, 6.5k Recruiting 1k Artillery -1 M, 6k Building 4 Fighter Wings -4 M, 20k Building 3 Corvettes -3 M, 7.5k Treasury +2k

Crimson Order of Schwarzburg-Sondershausen Across the Order the ambitions of their military can be seen. What was once a trickle of recruitments, is now a widespread campaign. In every major city and town Captains set up shop. Hundreds of soldiers from dozens of Free Companies line up to ‘Take the Crimson’. They are all officially being swept under the centralized umbrella of the Order itself. The Crimson Army served the Lord Commander and his Great Captains. They were not small entities, beholden to a single Captain and their companies wealth. Instead they serve the state as a whole, and are trained to do it well. This year marks a massive expansion of the Free Company Soldiers, the core of the Army. Besides the growing of the army, little much is happening within the Realm. The Duke and his family continue to strengthen their bonds to the Capital. After the Civil War, they were some of the only powerful Nobility left. And it was in their name the Crimson Order ruled. But one thing was clear, the Duke was a mouth piece. Across the realm more and more control is being exerted. All leading on paved roads back to the Capital and Central State. The Free Companies roaming the land looking for fights and employment seemed to be a dying breed. With the modernization of the land, stability was more and more certain. Less so was the need for large armed bands of disloyal men. One thing was certain after the attacks of Dark Spawn on the Capital. A ever present need for more defense. Aldemar was seen as the only truly stable and non aggressive entity near the Order. The Mitrovics while a friend, were increasingly more expansionist and Imperial. Mer’ak had it’s own plagues, and were the alleged host of the attacks on the Order. And it is as such several Great Captains are tasked with border defense. Across the realm garrisons supplemented with Army regulars will travel the land, securing it. – Population; 11,255,088 Income; 88,900 5 Ap Mod Actions A quiet year for Herr Schaus in Aldemar. He continues securing genuine friends, and working as a farmer. But more and more he attends gambling nights all over. Trying to learn the tricks, and find someone to take him under his wing. The goal for the year being immersing himself in this new world. Passive Research [TEN Tech] Open Slot; “Trebuchets” Financial Actions Building 1 Keep -1 Ap, 10k Recruiting 1,500 T3 Free Company -3 AP, 27k Recruiting 250 T3 Veteran Free Company -1 AP, -11k Building 3 Farms -15k Building 1 Town -15k Treasury +20.9k

Crimson Order of Schwarzburg-Sondershausen The swampy marshes around the capital of Lindenbaum had long since been drained. Now fertile fields surrounded the city in a patchy network of farms. But the far bigger trade of this land was hosting the various Free Companies. They flocked to the Capital like flies to a corpse, all looking for sustenance. The main contracts a Free Company could appeal for were twofold. The more common one was a contract with the Crimson Army itself. The other and most coveted was a foreign contract. Provision and pay in a foreign army, with the chance to loot. And more importantly avoid the insanely harsh Captains of the main army. For a while now the Lord Commander and Great Captains had been hesitant to expand the main army. They were more pockets to fill, and men to arm. But recently a small industrial leap had ensured funds for the Council. And so, the Contracts are posted across the entire Duchy. The first Free Company to get a major contract was a peculiar one. A full one thousand five hundred of them had been signed in a massive deal. The Serek Hounds were a poor but fierce Free Company. They lived in the deepest recesses of the Swamps, and fought accordingly. In stark contrast to the Golden Lances who were wardens of the Wulff Swamps, the Hounds simply lived there. Their expertise however was in ranged weapons, and using a variety of weapons. Not to mention they fought Sereks, some rumored to be seen even fighting with just their hands! These men will be given the newly conceived Crossbows for use. They will also be trained in the arts of melee combat. The Crimson Strings had just been formed as an official army branch. As the armies ranks swell, so to does the industry to match it. The need for ever more ores, food, and manpower is keenly felt. Ever since the alleged Mer’ak attacks on the Capital, the Lord Commander has been on edge. And it is in the idea of protecting itself that the Order is hiring so many of it’s own Free Companies. As the factories and regiments at home shape up, thousands march to war with the Mitrovic Empire. The Black Guard were notoriously cruel and elite troops. They were taking great fun in the purging of the Ascendancy. *Wilfried Schaus celebrates his fifteenth birthday as a quiet affair. Tucked away in a dismal Inn deep within Aldemar’s complex weave of districts. In a damp room with a likely girl, they share a steak bought from the market. He did not take much joy in it. He had wealth, but dared not spend it lavishly. He had moved several times, trying to keep a low profile. Though he had stolen enough, alongside his own funds, he was not content. But it was very clear the Aldemari Civic Guard were nothing like the Order’s own lax provincial militia. Simply stealing until he was caught and hung would not do. So he stashes his funds across a few banks, keeping the stolen items to slowly pawn off to avoid suspicion. *This year he will focus on what he hopes to me a slightly less blatantly illegal affair. He begins traveling to the farming hubs in the outer city. There he hopes to pick up seasonal work across several farms. More importantly he slowly but surely tries to win peoples trust and find any minor gambling or horse racing syndicates operating in the outer areas. Being a genuinely good person and wanting to make lasting connections, the young Schaus tries to see if he can find small time criminal allies to take him under their wing. He uses some extra gold from his stashes to grease the wheels. – Population; 10,9272,70 Income; 79,200 Ap; 3 Mod Actions *Wilfred Schaus’s From Ruination Drama Passive Research [TEN Tech] Open Slot; ‘Galleas Warships’ The new model of war for the Order’s naval interest. A ship very similar to a Galley, but fit for ocean travel and more serious artillery pieces. Financial Actions 2 Mine/Heavy Industry -25k Building 2 Farms -20k 2 Mine/Heavy Industry -25k Building 2 Farms -20k Recruiting 1,000 Free Company Soldiers -18k Recruiting 500 Sturm-Reiter -7.5k Treasury +8,700

Crimson Order of Schwarzburg-Sondershausen The start of this year marks a sad one for the Order. A calculated and brutal assault took place on the Capital. Bodies of several Ordermen, and minor nobles are found dead in their houses. Worse yet, the palace of the Duke himself was attacked. While the palace seemed quiet, Dark Magic adepts had broken into the very inner sanctum of the Rune Forge. There many dozens were massacred, the remains for all to view in memorials across the capital. In a vicious response, a certain Captain Reinhart Mueller personally led the purges. The cultist were found skulking in their cells houses. They were all put to the sword, the cells ripped up. Though no accusation has been made, many are led to believe it was Mer’ak that would pull such a dark move. In spite of these horrid events, life in the Order is better then ever. Thousands of settlers were just given the chance of a life time. Lush and fertile fields to the east had been claimed. Under the stern protection of a Keep, this land represented gold waiting to happen. And so farmsteads and hamlets are planned to dot every surface of the land. On a fare more Industrial note, the Order has realized the need for more armed troops. This years marks the start of a very long armament and recruiting campaign. The Order’s naturally better Arms and Armor will be on the best soldiers in the world. Not much other official news comes out of the Order this year. It is simply a continued policy of trying to gain foreign contracts. The only ongoing one so far is in the illustrious Mitrovic Imperial Army. There 1,000 brave souls serve. Some of them are new recruits, to replace the losses of last year. When they ask what happened, they are grimly told to stop asking. It seems the wounds were still tender of the disasters charge of ‘66. - Population; 10,609,000 Income; 73,100 Mod Actions A new victim of the Order drearily walks through the more remote parts of the land. Only a boy of fourteen, he was alone and rather out of his depth. He had spent his life in the Capital of Lindenbaum. Son to a minor Noblemen who had married a rich merchant heiress, they had a cozy life. Both had ensured their eldest son was well tutored. But perhaps due to being in two worlds, young Wilfried Schaus was a man of the streets. He spent his days tutoring with boring old teachers. But often at night he would sneak out to run havoc in the streets of the Capital. Eventually a group of thieves saw his value. They used him for his connections and gold, but also training him all the while. This all changed with the Dark Spawn attacks on the capital last year. His parents were found mutilated in their house. Wilfried had been out, stealing with his gang. The event turned his world upside down. He was no long protected by any status, it seemed the Order was also pushing his family out of it’s annals. Taking what gold he could, he ran. ***And now his path leads him to the massive Great City of Aldemar. Here he was one among millions. Here he could hide, and try to evade imagined and real enemies. Who knew if the Dark Spawn would come for him? or the Order to cover up their mistakes. And so he will blend into the lowest rungs of this city. Using his gold, and slight experience, he will set about going to earn more. Renting a small room at an Inn, he focuses on the petty thievery. He goes to find a few young children, to recruit and train. One day they will be the start of his small crime syndicate in the Great City . [600 Gold] Passive Research [TEN TECH] All need Responses master Slot 1; “Basic Printing Press” A mechanical device for applying pressure to an inked surface resting upon a print medium (such as paper or cloth), thereby transferring the ink. Slot 2; “Advanced Armor and Weapon Production” T4 Equipment The Forge-masters of the Order realize the growing need for better equipment for the troops. Though their current armor had no equal to other nations, they wanted to do one better. And so they will perfect the techniques of making steel, and shaping it into expert level weapons and armor. Slot 3; Thunder-Bow Prototype Very similar to a crossbow, but almost not at all at the same time. It is a circular tube attached to a stock, and reinforced with steel bands. A Propulsion Rune also be drafted will be placed at the end where one would hold it. If they trigger the run, ideally it will channel the energy into a mini object lodged down the tube, propelling it out at great force. The Prototype must be built strong enough to resist multiple propulsion runes being used. Spell Research “Propulsion Rune” T3 [6,000 Invested]] A rune meant to hold a large amount of energy in reserve, for multiple use on each charge. This Rune when triggered taps into that power to hit a single point of a small object. It will propel this small object at great speeds, ideally also over a long range. For now it is planed to be on something like a sling. But far more ambitious ideas are taking root...... Worked on by Forge-Master Albanus. [13 Arcane] Financial Actions Building 2 C.D, 1 T.D -30k Building 2 Farms -20k Building 1 Mine/H.M -12.5k Gold to Samalstraza -4k

Crimson Order of Schwarzburg-Sondershausen Across the Order industry has finally begun to take shape. Almost a complete agrarian state, the massive Free Companies were always in need of funds and provision. For years now it was becoming far more apparent they were growing too big for their boundaries. The Lord Captain and his council were and more and more convinced in one thing. Lebenstraum. They had a drastic need to expand their borders, their people, and their culture. The World was a deadly place, and they are but one fledgeling nation. And so a new keep is planned on. Soldiers are picked, and sent. The control of the Order will grow..... The Black Guard earns a massive spike to their reputation this year. For a while now every Free Company had sought a foreign contract. The true way to gain repute, gold, and skill. And though a last minute cancellation ended hopes, they were renewed. Though the straights were blocked, far closer buyers seemed to be in need. And as such one thousand Black Guard Free Company Soldiers march south to the Mitrovic Empire. In good order, they parade down the roads with bands setting the pace. They will arrive in the Empire and clearly look like what they are. Professional killers. Besides sending troops abroad, and to claim land, the Order is dull. This year only marks the beginning of a fresh start. One of massive industry, legions of Veterans, and a racial mandate extending for leagues upon leagues...... - Population; 10,300,000 Income; 52,200 Mod Actions Sending observers to Aldemar to learn of their Great City, and place of interest. Sending Observers to gain more knowledge on Mer’ak Financial Actions Building a Keep to claim more land [Map to come] -10k Building 2 Farms to maintain Population -10k Building 3 Trade Depots -30k Treasury +2,200 First Mercenary Payment from Mitrovics +3k

Crimson Order of Schwarzburg-Sondershausen Music Lord Captain Eckhardt Jurgen Von Stoltenburg of the Crimson Order of Schwarzburg-Sondershausen was not a person to be trifled with. Many others in the Order were far stronger, bigger, better with blades. But Eckhardt Von Stoltenburg had qualities few others lacked. He was a smaller Ordermen, considered short. Ironically amongst humans he would still be on their taller side. Regardless, within the Realm, he was seen as weak of body. But of mind, all bowed to his wisdom. The man was a born leader, and could convince any to follow them. So when he and his Black Guard rose to prominence, few could contest his rise. With the end of the Great Lindenbaum Civil War, a power vacuum had been wide open. This was quickly filled by the well established mercenary “Free Companies”. Already small powers in their own right, they proliferated Schwarzburg-Sondershausen. But now with peace, they were forced to look ahead.... And this is how Lord Captain came to be the most coveted rank within the Duchy. Recovering from four decades of Civl War, the Duchy was forced to look to the Free Companies. The only Orders still with power, troops, and gold. Thankfully the Free Companies were not wanton war lords. Instead they were former Atemic and Orevian lords, forced into service in disparity. They wanted a stable Duchy, not a chaotic free state. And so the six major Free Companies, and several dozen smaller ones, all came together. Chief among them was the Black Guard Free Company, led by none other than Lord Stoltenburg. This is how the Crimson Order came to be. The chief Captains all pledged eternal brotherhood, and service to The Duchy of Schwarzburg-Sondershausen. How stable this Order was? Only time will tell. - In more recent times the Crimson Order has shaped up somewhat. This sprawling land is home to many Deviants and Humans from across the Gulf of Chtor. The Lord Captain and his council of twelve Free Company Captains rule the land. The wounds of the Civil War were healing at long last, after years of recovery. And one thing was becoming very apparent in this modern time. The unified Crimson Army was growing in size and power yearly. And many smaller Free Companies were already clamoring for contracts. The Lord and Great Captains feared soon if blood was not found, blood would just be taken locally. And so The Crimson Order resolves to enter the foreign market. Their Mercenaries, Armor, and Weapons are of the highest tier. Surely they will soon find willing markets. In the meantime, a FAR more prestigious contract is given out to a Free Company. The “Long Spears” were one of the most prestigious and veteran Free Companies. Grand Marshal of the Order Wilfried Lichtenfels commanded the Order’s unified army. But he used to lead the Long Spears, to great effect. The rival of the Black Guard, these two primary Free Companies were start differences. The Long Spears were noble, and far more merciful in battle. And this is why five hundred of the best of them are selected. To be commanded by Captain Gunter Neuhaus. This Captain and his Regiment will set out to none other then Samalstraza itself. They will serve with honor and distinction as an offer of tribute to the Mage Court. *Perhaps the most concerning of all, was news from the Wulff Swamps. Always a deadly land, fertile with the blood of tens of thousands. It had hosted several massive battles in the days of the Civil War. And now, the Capital of Lindenbaum seemed to be in a dark situation yet again. The Swamps seemed to offer no end of peril and blood to the Order. A retinue of One hundred and fifty of the Grand Marshals personal troops is assembled. The Troops, guides, and people who claimed the rumors in the first place will be given a simple order. To head to the source of the rumors pouring out of the Wulff Swamps. And to find out what was going on, and where it was coming from. Captain Ferdinand Viermetz of the Golden Pike Free Company is chosen to lead the sortie. The troops will not carry unwieldily Pikes, instead opting for axes and shorter spears. - Population; 10,000,000 Income; 33,000 Mod Actions *Captain Ferdinand Viermet’z expedition into the Swamps..... [150 Free Company Soldiers] Research Actions [Passive. TEN TECH] Slot 1; ‘Heavy Infantry’ Slot 2; ‘Heavy Cavalry’ Slot 3; ‘Crossbows’ Financial Actions Building 2 Commercial Districts -20k Building 2 Farms -10k Treasury +3k

Nation Name: Crimson Order of Schwarzburg-Sondershausen Government Type: “Oligarchy” [Various Free Company leaders rule jointly in the former Atemic Province] Leader: Eckhardt Jurgen Von Stoltenburg Culture: HUMAN. Mainly Atemic/Antramar. History: The lands of the Company once not been as fertile in the large swathes of field. The people who lived here had peaceful and mundane lives. They were close to the heartlands of the Atemic Empire itself. Also near was the sturdy Antramar and the Imperial people predating them. The land straddles the vital entrance to the Gulf itself. They are the crossroads between two major culture groups, and foreign trade. This led to a very tangible increase in importance to the place. As the Empire began to rot at the foundations, cracks were becoming very apparent. However so close, the people stayed largely loyal. But as always the case, the peasants were not the ones to worry about. Several Imperial and Antramar Generals saw the massive opportunity in this peninsula. The people were docile, populous, and rich. In a final messy break from the Empire, the Lindenbaum civil war begins. Leading entire legions into the land, the various Generals no better than War-Lords begin to clash. Entire armies and mage schools massacre each other on the battlefields, in the pursuit of this land. And this is when the fields truly begin to grow fertile. From countless amounts of blood being spilled in the same cursed fields. As the years drudged on more and more death greeted the land. A terrible cycle of rising to power and falling greeted most Generals. This was not a land of politics, every dispute being solved by force. As the second decade comes and goes, the nature of this peninsula has changed entirely. No more can one live in peace, and security. Now if one could not fight, they were dead or tilling soil. The Generals and their massive armies died off one by one. And yet the bloodshed kept rolling on. Smaller and smaller factions broke down, city states even forming. The most notable mark of all this was one thing. The rise of the Free Companies. Many of the natives did not have any military power, but they did have gold. As entire Legions poured in, they could not compete. As the decades drug on, even Generals require hired arms. Various bands rose and fell just like everyone else. But through the blood entire Bands of men were hardened into elite mercenaries. The men leading them and the companies themselves began to gain massive influence. Recruits flooded in, sick of fighting for Imperial or Antramar War-Lords. And as this new age dawns, so too does a new start. Eckhardt Jurgen Von Stoltenburg joins a famous Free Company of the time. Barely twelve, the Company took him on as a cooks assistant. By now chaos in the land and Free Companies roamed as entire new armies for sale. But some Free Companies in particular begin to rise from their peers. Several notorious Generals and their Companies begin to form more and more deals. Politics was a dangerous thing, but these deals showed it could be done. As time drags on the Mercenary Companies begin forming into a Pact of like minded companies. They begin to rebuild, and tap into the old wealth and people of the land. For forty years war was always a constant. But the Free Companies had secured an uneasy peace between all of them. By this time the hero Jurgen Von Stoltenburg had risen from cook to a Captain of his own Company. The Black Guard had formed a massively brutal reputation. Jurgen and his men were elite troops, ready for anything. They were one of the first to pledge to the Crimson Order. Jurgen was a shrewd man, and saw the power in this. Instead of being hired by petty Lords and Generals, they could look outward. More and more the Crimson Order is pointed towards the outside world. Groups of interest: ‘The Black Guard’ The personal Free Company to General Jurgen, and his staff. They are elite mercenaires dedicated to pure discipline and loyalty. During the civil war this meant they were asked to do the blackest of jobs to guard their Owners. This led to their name, and devastating reputation. Many were known to consider themselves dead if they faced the Black Guard across the line of battle. ‘Long Spears’ One of the chief Free Companies of a long standing reputation. These Generals and their men date back to times when the Order was in the Empire. This Company employs a large amount of the Orders famous Schwertkämpfer. [More Free Companies to come] Places of Interest; Wulff Swamps. A marshy area around the capital, full of beast and disease. It offers natural land protection, and even has fertile patches of swamp. Many also travel far into the depths of the swamp for infamous bog silk. Key Figures (3 people with points): Eckhardt Jurgen Von Stoltenburg Leadership – 6, Charisma – 6 Leader of the Black Guard, Elected representative of the Crimson Order. Albanus Sacerdos Arcane Skill – 12 Master Rune-Smith of the Order, and a man highly steeped in Runemancy and magic. He is immensely respected amongst the Free Companies, making sure they are all well equipped. Wilfried Lichtenfels Leadership – 5 Martial Skill – 5 Agility – 2 Leader of the Long Spears, and Marshal of the Pact. An honor ensuring he runs the day to day dealings of the Free Companies. His men chiefly are now being prepared for foreign mercenary service. Point Distribution: Size 10, Tech 10, Military 10, Loyalty 1 Military - 10 Spending Points 500 Medium Cavalry - 1 250 Sturm-Reiters – 1 3,000 Free Company Infantry - 6 1,000 Archers - 2 Runemancy Magic T1 Spell; “Order’s Blessing” A simple Rune of sharpness applied to a soldier's blade. The Rune made by a Mage while able to imbue its power in a decent amount of blades, last for a short length of time when used in combat. [Temporarily Makes 2 melee Units worth of weapons +.5 Tier above it’s Weapon Strength before needing to be recharged. Mages can bless 2 Units a turn] T1 Spell; “Concentrated Power” During the process of making armor for the mercenaries, a Runesmith Mage is employed to help his lessers. As they make the armor he inscripes dozens of ruins across the plate. These are all for decoration, but also around a focal point of the true Rune. This particular one merges with the armor and whoever wears it. [While it’s bearer has enough energy to spare, the armor is +.5 Tier. Mages can inscribe 1 units worth a turn] T2 Spell; “Lindenbaum” A Combat Rune meant to be used while in battle offensively. This Rune once inscribed onto a casters hand and filled with a mages power, turns into a large burst of energy guided by the mage that then explodes into a big shock wave. Meant to disrupt and shatter formations with the energy shock from the Runemagic energy releasing. Nat Idea: “Forgemasters” Armor and Weapons act .25 Tier above their status. Additionally every 3 million pop a set of ‘Seelenrüstung Armor and Seelenklinge Blade’ can be forged for the price of 1 Mage, 1 Adept. This Suit of Armor and Blade is forged to boost a man's prowess in battle to unheard of heights. It is inscribed with Runes unique to the Order Alone, that empowers the Armor and Blade to be far above ordinary heights. Seelenrüstung Armor - A suit of the best armor available, hand crafted by Runesmith Mages and Adepts for the best results possible. It is then inscribed with Runes unique to the Order. The four primary Runes are what makes the armor so powerful. The first three enhance the bearer, providing strength, speed, and dexterity. While the fourth, and the one Unique to the Order, is what enhances the armor. It binds the soul of it’s wearer to the armor. It imbues the armor with Runic power, that hardens the Steel while keeping it’s regular weight. The Run will consider the Armor as jointed, and work to protect and even repair parts of itself that are damaged. Seelenklinge Blade - No two blades are the same, but all Seelenklinge blades cut easily through most inanimate matter, so long as the Blade is kept in motion. They do not cut living flesh; instead the metal fuzzes as it passes through, killing without leaving a mark or spilling blood. It was said that blades sever the soul itself, the only indication of death being that the victim's eyes burn out. Any part of the body that is cut dies instantly. If the Blade touches a man's spine, he dies, eyes burning. If it cuts through the core of a limb it effectively kills that limb, rendering it permanently limp, numb, and useless. The Runes bound to this blade are various, all adding strength and energy to these usually massive blades. The Unique Order Rune also binds this blade to it’s owners soul. Unique Units: “Free Company Soldiers“ Medium Infantry Replacement Expert Pikemen with years of training, and the best equipment available. Most have spent their entire life fighting in Free Companies. Now they serve the Order as the best Soldiers for hire in the land. These Pikemen have a fearsome reputation, and are known for their pure discipline and fighting in massed formation. They can even attack with their pikes en masse, the weapons an extension of their body. Perfect mercenaries, ready to serve the biggest buyer and their Order. Troops train with other weapons in case their buyer has a preference, but excel in Polearms. “Crimson Strings” Crossbow-Melee Archers [Special Unique] A dedicated branch of the armed forces of the Order. These expert marksmen have found their love for the Crossbow, a deadly weapon. These troops are dedicated to serving just as ably as any mercenary. They are highly disciplined, skilled, and motivated. They employ a Crossbow and Heavy shield for protection as main armament. But they are also well armored, and armed with a backup mace, sword, or axe. These troops are versatile, able to serve best as Crossbowmen. But they can also serve in a melee when it comes to it. “Sturm-Reiter” Light Horse Replacement The Sturm-Reiter have long been the professional cavalry of the Free Companies. Massed Pike warfare has rendered Knights on horseback to a relic of the fading past. But these Light Horsemen were unique in their power. They are Horse Archers, serving with a Bow or Crossbow depending on their Leader’s choice. They are meant to act as Scouts and Skirmishers, and screen the advance of armies. These men can raid, scout, and skirmish at a lightning quick pace from their fast mounts. Or offer a unique tool in the heat of a pitched battle. Starting Location: Star - Capital Square - Extra City Triangle - Fortress Diamond - Castle I LOVE WHITE TOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Glad it’s your favorite.

Groukoxxot Clan The sprawling fleet of the Clan has clustered together in this lonely sector. For decades they had travelled the vast expanse of space. And all they have found was what was expected. More empty sectors, more asteroid belts and moods orbiting lifeless rocks. The only thing of note was the intense variety of stars. One could spend a lifetime trying to map them all out. Many of the Clan took to etching the various stars they have visited onto their scales. This sector was quite like any other, but not for it’s inhabitants. After such a long journey, council had been called on The Agorso. The Oasis Ships and Fleet of the Groukoxxot was a fearsome sight to behold. Amassed in one sector, they seemed to dominate it’s expanse. The Oasis Ships were of a truly massive scale. Cylindrical in shape, with rotating links to create some level of gravity. They held millions of Alduu’uuranean each, all small parts of this massive organism. Each Oasis Ship was a power in it’s own right, with a Owner at it’s helm. The three prime factions of the Groukoxxot held an Oasis ship in their clutches. Jealously and greed was high between the three. And with such a long lapse in raiding, this was especially so. The reason they were all gathering is to make a choice for the Clan’s future. The Agorso is the largest and most populated Oasis Ship within the Clan. It’s owner, Star Lord Kuuhisk Ukzakoaz was the current leader of the Groukoxxot. The title of Star Lord got tossed between the three Oasis Ship Captains, depending on who at the time held the most influence. Sometimes a daring raid, or internal fight was all the spark required to change power. But with the long lull in reaving, Kuuhisk had held power for over a decade. Some had settled into his prolonged rule. Others vehemently protested it, wishing to go out on their own. Regardless of opinion, they all came to speak their bit. Within the thousands of corridors, lay the center of The Agorso’s power. A massive, and beautiful agriculture hive. Here was not the simple production of staple food for the processors. Here all the coveted luxury crops, fruits, and animals were cultivated. Many different plants here were worth more then some of the smaller reaver ships. And it was here dozens of Alduu’uuranenan streamed in to meet. They thumped down the corridors, in packs. Most were armored in a various motley of pieces. There was no uniform or true outfits they stuck too. Most took to having their own taste, and budget. What all Alduu’uuranean had in common was simple; a massive armament. Many carry as many as three pistols in a brace, alongside their preferred melee weapon, and a rifle. All had a shared love in the culture of firearm production and use. And so hordes of heavily armed pirates convene in a field of luxury crops to hold a council. Star Lord Kuuhisk Ukzakoaz appraised the Alduu’uuranean pouring in perched from his throne. A simple enough throne, bedecked in lapis lazuli, gold, gems, diamonds, and other humble ores. Very faded skins provided comfort for the Star Lord. The skins though old were still easy to identify for all. It was the remnants of Kuuhisk’s first kill. Among the first to enter as always was Coryphaus Yauk Groxxollix. A massive example of his race, one of the biggest in the Clan. Yauk was the leader of the infamous Thurnuxl Reavers, always leading them form the front. His Oasis Ship was a sight to behold, housing a massive Shipyard. From him came most of the ships and warriors for the reaving fleets. And it was him that was most angry with the decade long span between raids. Arriving later was the infamous Captain of the last Oasis Ship. She was not one to cross, and had for a long time held power in an iron grip. Having served as Star Lord before, Chathriyi was a popular leader within the Clan. With all the prime Captains and their retinue assembled, Kuuhisk leaps to his feet. Raising his hands for silence, the crowd of raucous pirates simmers down. Eventually a silence is reached, as they all expectantly look to their Star Lord. “This is not the first time we have convened here in anger recently” he begins, to which many hisses confirm the truth of his statement. “But perhaps this can be the last.” Kuuhisk as he says this appraises the Captains, and their subordinates. “We have drifted for decades, but it will not last forever. Some of you may claim we should split up, to cover the stars. But as I have said before, we would lose each-other in the void.” He raises a finger, pointing to the man standing by hi throne. “We have possibly discovered a way to finally communicate across the Stars. One that is reliable, and fast” At this excited chatter fills the fields. Finally quiet is again reached. “We shall gather our strength here, and devise a way to coordinate at great distance.” Coryphaus Yauk shouts, cutting through the renewed excited talking. “And when will we be doing this promised reaving?” . The Star Lord locks eyes with his general, squinting. “Soon” – 2200 Population; 200,000,000 Income; 45,000 Mod Actions Using the Clan Fleets to survey the sector they have temporarily taken residence in. Research Actions [Passive] Slot 1; Quantum Communications Slot 2; T2 Kinetics Financial Actions Building 3 Business Modules -45k