TankM1A2

NATION NAME: Alicia’s Rise (the Loremasters of Tor Alessil) RACE: Moon Elf MAGIC / SORCERY: Sorcery BRIEF DESCRIPTION / HISTORY: Tor Alessil's foundation is intrinsically linked with Alicia, Princess of Anor Lindhe and daughter of elven lord Cerus’ taking with the sorcerous arts. Living through St. Ralek’s conquests, and hearing tales of the Sorcerer Ruul’s magical exploits, Alicia decided to put an end to her petty dabbling. Afterall, such wondrous power had no right to be hoarded by merely one powerful caster. Perhaps as a challenge to Ruul, or merely flattering imitation, Alicia began to divest resources into her own center of study. After extensive land surveys, she commissioned the tower of Alicia’s Rise during the year of 46 AS, above a believed meteorite impact site, some millenia ago. Though she had her wizarding tower, its halls were empty besides her and her pitiful collection of books from her father’s castle. She’d decided it would not stand as a vanity project. Rather, Alicia would seek out talented apprentices from across her father’s realm, bringing skills in every field ranging from combat, to alchemy, medicine, archaeology, and scrivening. These individuals would become the first Keepers of Tor Alessil, melding their combined knowledge in the pursuit of discovering and mastering magical lore. Though the ascension of the Tor Alessil is held paramount, this order of sorcerers is largely benevolent, except when a malefactor would stand between them and their sought-after magical secrets. As the tower grows, as the libraries are stocked with magical tomes, and as new pupils are inducted into the halls, a lingering question remains in the Rise. Who is fit to wield the arcane? Since the Order is overwhelmingly composed of Lunaerin, many would say the moon elves are the only ones worthy. If you were to ask Alicia herself, she may give a vague answer, saying ‘only us’ should wield sorcery. Furthermore, there are elves who ask how and when magic should be used. Is it a force to protect or a tool to achieve your selfish goals? There are those who point to Sorcerer Ruul’s talent, and how it was used to carve an empire from nothing; that it would be a waste to sit around until some inexplicable threat emerged. It is a fact that the loremasters of Tor Alessil have grown bolder over the years, beginning to send expeditions to old ruins and wonders to gain an understanding of the natural world, or simply to retrieve old tomes and prized wellstones. Despite these simmering questions of philosophy, the Keepers heed Alicia’s wisdom. The Princess has given her pupils no reason to doubt her capabilities. The Loremasters of Tor Alessil march on, steady as she goes. LEADER / NOTABLE CHARACTERS: Alicia an Daerienn, Princess of Anor Lindhe Alicia is the firstborn daughter of the elven lord Cerus and his now-estranged wife Sylvaniel. From a young age, Alicia possessed an inclination towards magic. However, her gift was not bestowed from the Gods, but from a raw and unregulated source. Soon after discovering her proficiency in this magic, she embraced the sorcerous arts. Though she remains at her father Cerus' side as a confidant and advisor, she has pursued her own path recently. Lately, Alicia has taken an interest in finding and studying ancient lore, bestowing her knowledge onto like-minded pupils. MAP LOCATION (ONLY WITHIN OR NEAR TO ANDUVIA): UNIQUE UNIT: Keepers of Tor Alessil (Pupils) Keepers of Tor Alessil (Pupils) The Keepers of Tor Alessil, or simply known as the Keepers, are the knightly scholar-retainers of Sorcerer-Princess Alicia. These soldiers have perfected swordsmanship to an artform, deftly wielding their perfectly balanced blades and are skilled in the use of arcane cantrips. Through sustained practice across decades, these spells have become second nature to them, seemingly able to be cast at will. The Keepers are well prepared for expeditions beyond the Rise, and are often tasked with the recovery of lost knowledge or unearthing precious wellstones. POINT OF INTEREST: Fallingstar Mines The Fallingstar Mines are, as their name implies, a dig site where a meteorite supposedly broke apart and struck Ilhder some two millennia ago, and provides a reliable source of Wellstones. The stones recovered from this site possess exceptional quality, glimmering with magical energy, and used to empower the sorcerers of Tor Alessil. [Produces Wellstones, scales with tier of Tor Alessil]

NORTH CAMADACIAN BLACK ARMY The congress chamber of Villequiers An otherwise unsuspecting town, Villequiers was bustling with activity today, as people from all over milled through the town- before eventually congregating in the square. However, many of these faces weren’t locals, at least of Villequiers. Representatives from every commune made their way to the town’s historic congress building, home of the revolution. Even those out of the loop of current affairs knew the councils had been convened. The councils were the means by which North Camadacia conducted important decision-making. Though opposed to a central government, the North Camadacian Free Inhabitants knew the communes could stand no chance upon their own. Once again, the communes were under threat. Word trickled from the sights of incidence to the interior. Eventually, one name crossed the lips of every North Camadacian that morning; Adrian de Grempesh, the latest in the line of Camadacian dogs to be sicked upon the free people of the north. This was the matter pushed before the councils. Ironically, despite living in Villequiers, Enguerrand was one of the last representatives to arrive. He could offer any sort of excuse, to duties in the household or helping another comrade with their fieldwork, but he need not explain himself to any other. Furthermore, the council needs no distraction to their deliberation. A path parted for him, as he approached the mass gathered around the congress building, of all faces he knew. Some muttered, gossiped, but none impeded him, or bothered him with a frivolous question. They knew they’d be filled in at the discussion’s end, as was their right, for they were all equals in the Free Territory. Enguerrand flung open the chamber’s cast iron doors, stepping into the room’s center. The room itself was rather modest, with functionality in mind over flashiness. It was a carpeted room, the size of a tennis court. The wood furnishings were of fine make, but lacked the golden embellishments often found in the Camadacian Kingdom’s halls. The benches were arranged in a semi-circular fashion around a pit where a speaker might petition the councils, and where Enguerrand found himself standing. A few impatient representatives impatiently eyed Enguerrand, though if they had any grievances with his tardiness, they certainly didn’t air them. The current speaker even paid Enguerrand no mind, seemingly locked in debate with a representative across the room. Enguerrand recognized them both, of course; Colonels Morvan and Sardou. Though this was officially a military matter, Enguerrand held no official sway. Though, the leader of each commune’s militia would often seek counsel from the communal leader. As such, Enguerrand made his way to his bench, sitting beside Colonel Dartagnan, who acknowledged him with a nod. He seemed absorbed in the discussion at hand, perhaps seeking an opportune moment to weigh in. “Provins can meet the quota.” Sardou explained, as he leaned forward from his seat. “However, there may not be enough hands to manage the fields.” “I’m sure you understand, Comrade Sardou, that there’ll be no fields left to till if we continue to let the Royalists trounce all over us.” said Morvan tiredly. To a foreigner, the proceedings may seem surprisingly calm and civilized. Enguerrand raised a brow, and looked at Colonel Dartagnan. Dartagnan looked back at Enguerrand and nodded. “It’s trivial, really.” he whispered. “You know what to say.” “Comrades.” Enguerrand declared, his voice resonating throughout the chamber. Both Morvan and Sardou fell silent, turning their attention to Enguerrand. “Villequiers has produced an excess of grain this season. I’ll see to it that enough is shipped to the stores of the Commune of Provins.” “It’s settled then!” exclaimed Colonel Morvan, before anyone else could speak. “Aye. We’ll muster with you, here in Villequiers.” said Sardou, looking over to Dartagnan and Enguerrand. “It’ll be an honor to fight by your side again.” Dartagnan surveyed the room’s mood, before standing. “Then war it shall be. Within a week's time, our combined host shall make for Quiercy, and join with you, Comrade Colonel Morvan. Together we will destroy Grempesh, and show the Camadacians that our beacon of liberty will not go quietly into the night. To battle, comrades.” Colonel Dartagnan’s Communal Militia of Villequiers, prior to campaign ACTIONS [MOD] The North Camadacian Black Army moves to intercept Grempesh’s host and prevent further incursions into North Camadacian Free Territory. 300 Light Archers 500 Black Army Militia 75 Medium Melee Cavalry [MOD] The General Assembly diverts funding towards the restoration of the Undercroft, as a result of renewed aggression by the Kingdom of Camadacia. Materials and provisions are not-so-mysteriously whisked away and taken below the surface, to aid the influx of refugees from the borderlands. (1,000 C invested) [5,000 C, 2B] Constructing Mine in Villequiers

NORTH CAMADACIAN BLACK ARMY NATION GOVERNMENT/LEADER RANK: A collection of anarcho-socialist communes, de facto governed by a General Assembly. DESCRIPTION OF NATIONAL/PROVINCIAL HISTORY & CULTURE: For as long as hierarchies existed, there sat those at the bottom of the order. Those individuals who were trodden by lords, merely as a consequence of birth. Many wondered if there were gods above, how they could create a world riddled with inequality. These people resolved that no man should rule over another, rejecting the traditional autocratic methods of rule, and the centralized apparatus of state. This ideology harbored itself within the peasant and working classes of Camadacia. The supposed protectors of the peasants were often no more than bullies, claiming the spoils of the labor of everyday men and women, under the threat of force. A particular individual named Enguerrand swore to suffer such oppression no longer. When his lord came to collect, Enguerrand refused to relinquish his tithe. Infuriated, the knight raised his sword, prepared to run the man down, while Enguerrand stood his ground. Inspired by Enguerrand’s moving words and rebellion, an onlooking peasant named Emmanuelle Soulat, leveled his pitchfork, skewering the knight’s mount. The horse would fling the knight from his back, before eventually collapsing upon the knight himself. Having come to terms with his death, Enguerrand stood frozen, before delivering a speech proclaiming their newfound freedom to the estate’s workers. This marked the beginning of the revolution. Enguerrand would not stop there, enlisting the aid of hardline anarchists to spread word to the nearby villages. Many who were curious came to leave their homes for Villequiers to marvel at the ambitious idea of a stateless society. Many were captivated and decided to settle there. Those who didn’t, remained at their homes, to further propagate Mother Anarchism’s mission, of course, with aid of Enguerrand’s agents. Eventually, whole swaths of the countryside would raise the red and black banner, before the Camadacian Army could even muster a response. Fearing inevitable retaliation, the new free villages convened to appoint a military leader of a new Black Army, composed of all the communes’ militias. The struggle against Camadacian tyranny would climax upon the fields of Quiercy, where an overconfident Camadacian knightly cavalry force attempted to outflank the Black Army line, only to be bogged down in the uncharted marsh, in which the Black Army anchored its flank. As the knights dismounted from their horses and began wading through mud, the Black Army counter-charged with their halberds and poleaxes with renewed vigor. Caught unprepared, the Camadacian knights were cut to ribbons, and the remainder of the Camadacian force fled the field. A resounding cry broke out through the ranks: no gods, no masters. Now with breathing room, the communes properly organized, sending representatives to the Congress of Villequiers, where they proclaimed the North Camadacian Free Territory, wholly independent of the southern Camadacian elites. Equal representation defines the General Assembly of the North Camadacian Free Territory, with each commune permitted to appoint their own representative. Representatives are often communal coordinators and charismatic individuals, bearing the respect of their people. The General Assembly convenes frequently to discuss policy and coordinate efforts between the various communes. The concept of mutual aid is paramount to the functions of the General Assembly. Surrounded and under threat by feuding states, the North Camadacian Free Territory adheres to a strict doctrine of militarized anarchism. The Security Council of the Black Army is composed of militia leaders from the territory’s disparate communes, elected by their soldiery. These militia leaders convene periodically to discuss military strategy going forward, to protect the liberties of the territory’s inhabitants. A seat on the Security Council is mutually exclusive to a seat upon the General Assembly. UNIQUE MILITARY UNITS: BLACK ARMY MILITIA (TWO-HANDED INFANTRY): The Black Army Militia are stalwart defenders of anarchism itself, fighting for their very way of life and possessing nearly unshakable morale. These troops are well equipped, courtesy of the Blacksmiths’ Assembly, clad in half-plate and wielding halberds. NOTABLE CHARACTERS: Enguerrand, Representative of Villequiers Born and raised in Camadacia, Enguerrand spent much of his youth growing up beneath the boot of the manorial system. With every harvest claimed by his supposed lord, Enguerrand quickly became disillusioned by the idea that any man could rule over another. Enguerrand would spark the revolution with his defiance to a local lord. His dedication to global emancipation and fearlessness, inspired those around him to come to his aid. He is the quintessential anarchist, compassionate and determined. Enguerrand is decidedly in favor of further liberation efforts. Dartagnan, Colonel of the Black Army Dartagnan is hailed as the senior most officer of the North Camadacian Black Army, holding the rank of colonel. Dartagnan began his career not with the Black Army, but as a junior officer of the Royal Camadacian Army in the infantry. His last deployment for Camadacia involved a detachment being sent North to ‘restore order’ to the free people of North Camadacia. Bearing witness to the brutality required to bring the peasants to heel, he defected, alongside many like-minded soldiers, vowing never again to serve a state. Though many were initially skeptical of his arrival, Dartagnan came to offer valuable insights which allowed the Black Army to prevail in the field, and him to advance in the ranks. NATIONAL IDEA: No Gods, No Masters: Though the system has its faults, the people of the Free Territory wholeheartedly believe in their mission against autocratic, hierarchical states. It has a certain appeal to disenfranchised members of society, allowing North Camadacian agents subtler methods to incorporate more communes into the Territory, by spreading the word of their ideology and potentially inciting a popular revolt. In these territories, Black Army troops can often enlist aid of the locals and suffer less attrition during a campaign. PLAYER POI: Vox-caster: A relic of the 2nd Age, wielded by the General Assembly of the Free Territory of North Camadacia. This piece of technology serves as an instantaneous message transmitter, allowing for rapid coordination of efforts among the Free Territory's communes.

UNITED KINGDOM OF VENNENDAL Continuing dreadnought construction (⅔) [3 HP, 350,000C, 40M, 20A, 30T] Constructing Super Dreadnought, Corona Orientalis (¼) [75 NP, 150,000C, 27M, 6A, 6T] Constructing 3 Heavy Cruisers [80 NP, 120,000C, 24M] Constructing 4 Light Cruisers [44NP, 110,000C, 22M] Constructing 11 Destroyers [4 NP, 10,000C, 4M] Recruiting 2 Fighter Wings [14 NP, 35,000C, 14M] Recruiting 7 Bomber Wings [600,000C, 15M] Constructing 3x Orbital Defense Platform on Orthun V approach. [16 NP, 12,000C] Repairing Kolibrie [10 NP, 7,500C] Repairing Rosenveldt [6 NP, 4,500C] Repairing Frelinghuysen [5 Influence] The foundations of a network. [MOD] Beginning salvage operation in Manhuera’s space. UNDER ESCORT OF DETACHMENTS OF MANHUERA’S FLEET [30,000C invested]

UNITED KINGDOM OF VENNENDAL THE ACT OF UNION, 10’429 THE RISE OF THE CORONA ORIENTALIS A new dawn rises upon the Eastern Rim, as the United Kingdom of Vennendal is declared through the union of Stellarchs Elfering’s, Manhuera’s, and Fetu’s space. However, the union is far from jubilant, born from the necessity to form a united front against tyranny as opposed to any prevailing sense of commonality and identity. Meanwhile, across the border, Stellarch Akamu has begun to cement his rule over the ashes of the Republic, hungrily eyeing the systems which were snatched from their grasp. With bated breath, the denizens of the Eastern Rim scrutinize the new kingdom closely- to see whether they’ll truly stand as a galactic contender or merely fall as the next in a line of dominos, before the march of the Separationist fleets. Due to Karel Elfering’s far-reaching campaign, there has been no such coronation, yet. Though, many begun to hail the Admiral as the king in the east. An iron curtain has descended upon the eastern rim, and now billions look to the young king for guidance. Expenses: [1 HP, 170,000C, 20M, 10A, 10T] Constructing Kroonprins-class Dreadnought, Halcyon [1 HP, 170,000C, 20M, 10A, 10T] Constructing Kroonprins-class Dreadnought, Centaurus [1 HP, 170,000C, 20M, 10A, 10T] Constructing Kroonprins-class Dreadnought, Orion [1 HP, 170,000C, 20M, 10A, 10T] Constructing Kroonprins-class Dreadnought, Bellatrix [1 HP, 170,000C, 20M, 10A, 10T] Constructing Kroonprins-class Dreadnought, Nemesis [100 NP, 150,000C, 30M] Constructing 5 Light Cruisers [80 NP, 200,000C, 40M] Constructing 20 Destroyers [50,000C, 12AP, 12M] Recruiting 1,000,000 Imperial Standard Infantry [250,000C, 25M, 5T] Constructing Cultural Center on Sus [200,000C, 5M] Constructing Orbital Defense Platform over 52-Mining World

VENNENDAL [14 NP, 10,500C] Repairing the Vriesland [4 NP, 3,000C] Repairing the Kolibrie [4 NP, 3,000C] Repairing the Rosenveldt [75,000C, 18AP, 18M] Recruiting 1,500,000 Imperial Standard Infantry [100 NP, 150,000C, 30M] Constructing 5 Light Cruisers [40 NP, 100,000C, 20M] Constructing 10 Destroyers

VENNENDAL [6 NP, 4,500C] Repairing the Langevelde [3 NP, 2,250C] Repairing the Meskwaak [4 NP, 3,000C] Repairing the Vierakker [40 NP, 100,000C, 20M] Constructing 10 Destroyers [60 NP, 90,000C, 18M] Constructing 3 Light Cruisers [50 NP, 100,000C, 18M, 4A] Constructing 2 Heavy Cruiser

VENNENDAL [1 HP] Constructing Large Cruiser (2/2) [25 NP, 50,000C, 9M, 2A, 2T] Constructing Heavy Cruiser [80 NP, 120,000C, 24M] Constructing 4 Light Cruisers [12 NP, 30,000C, 6M] Constructing 3 Destroyers

ZONNERIJK VENNENDAL [90 NP] Repairing Dreadnought hull (2/2) [1 HP, 90,000C, 10M, 5A, 5T] Constructing Large Cruiser (½) [150,000C, 35M] Constructing Shipyards on Devoort [150,000C, 35M] Constructing Shipyards on Baas [75,000C, 18AP, 18M] Recruiting 1,500,000 Imperial Standard Infantry

ZONNERIJK VENNENDAL On a world not long ago wracked by all-out planetary warfare, the sense of calm and normality once again began to set in. Craters had been filled, cityscapes refurbished, and the peacekeeping patrols had finally been dialed back. Order had prevailed, despite the initial costs it took to achieve it. This was Lord Elfering’s prevailing ideology, the outright eradication of mercantilist influence in the Eastern Galaxy. It didn’t take a genius to know that the Stadtholder of Vennendal was on a crusade, though none could seem to point out why. Karel Elfering hadn’t dealt with any of the corrupt Senators or merchant lords of the Old Empire. Rather, he’d spent his whole life in the Navy. What he knew of the merchants was hearsay- from both his father and Vennendal’s Senator Aalmers. It imprinted on him nonetheless. He spent many restless hours as a deck officer, wishing he could inflict real change on the galaxy, to rip it free from corporate hold and mend the rift which had formed in the Senate. However, he had a duty, and Aalmers and his father had theirs. Politics and command wouldn’t coincide until, upon the fateful passing of Lord Elfering, Karel was offered the Stadtholdership. It was a role in which he quickly became acclimated; the heavy lifting carried by the Vennendalic Parliament. As a full-fledged Admiral, as much of Vennendal’s senior officer caste perished in the Second Schism, power quickly consolidated beneath Karel’s grip as he rose to the top of the naval seniority, while also the central unifying custodian of the Vennendalic realm. Yet, as is known, with great power comes great responsibility. His attention was pulled towards multiple fronts, surely knocking off whole years from his expected life as the demands and stress of office caught up with him. It was time to delegate tasks to his sons, and if that meant pushing his son through for promotion, then so be it. Afterall, he was merely expediting the process; their inevitable ascent. For Julius Elfering, the wait was anything but inevitable. Though he'd achieved the rank of Commodore at a young age, his command was nothing more than a destroyer group and a light cruiser. It was a start, but he was resigned to backline patrols, with no accolades or glory to be earned. As another year came to pass, Julius lounged in his command chair. What would be a routine patrol was interrupted by a long-range transmission, which read: “COMMODORE JULIUS PAUL ELFERING IS HEREBY ASSIGNED THE RANK OF REAR ADMIRAL WITH COMMAND OF THE SECOND HEAVY CRUISER DIVISION. REPORT TO NAVAL STATION VOORST FOR DEBRIEF, AT ONCE.” Julius wasn’t entirely sure why now of all times. Yet, he did seem quite pleased, eager to assume a more meaningful command. Surely, this meant that Vennendal was preparing for its newest moves, which he had been kept out of the loop due to his posting. At his father’s side however, this would end. ACTIONS [25,000C] Salvaging battlefield wreckage ((MOD)) First Fleet returns to Naval Station Rouven. [1 HP] Continuing construction of Kroonprins dreadnought. (3/3) [125,000C, 90NP, 10M, 5T] Repairing Dreadnought hull. (½) [90,000C, 45 NP, 27M, 3A] Repairing 3 Heavy Cruisers [20,000C, 8NP, 4M] Constructing 2 Destroyers [5,000C, 2NP, 2M] Constructing Bomber Squadron [35,000C] Lost to raiding

UNITED VENNENDAL “Though we’ve acquired the ERTC’s worlds, we’ve also inherited their security concerns. Sir, that being the border we now share with the Irik House of Storms.” said XO Scheel, head buried in his datapad, swiping away. “Well, you better get cozy. I’ll be making this battlefleet’s station, so that we can properly respond to any Storms incursion.” “Wise choice sir, this particular house and their Baron, well-” “I know, Scheel.” said Elfering, steely eyed as he gazed upon the surface of the world beneath his fleet. “And I’ll protect these people as our own. Vennendalers.” Hm, went the XO, who busied himself as he continued to access a feed of valuable information. “Ah. Our food situation was already stretched, Admiral. The ERTC blockade has stopped all imports, and our domestic production cannot meet the needs. The addition of these new worlds will only strain us further.” “We’ll make it work. Institute rationing.” nods Elfering. Scheel shrugged, “I’ll notify the planetary governor.” As the XO walked over to one of the comm terminals, Elfering was left to himself at the tactical display map in the center of the ship’s CIC. With his hands, he pinched the display, zooming out upon the local galactic community- now some thirty stars, beneath the flag of Vennendal. On all sides he was surrounded- by ravenous Irik, pitiful Imperial loyalists, a rapidly militarizing conglomerate, and a Republic beholden to the whims of merchants. It wasn’t optimal, Elfering thought, but he’d play the cards he was dealt. For now, he could only wait- hoping that his name’s weight would hold and his contacts would make good on their promises. ACTIONS [1 HP] Continuing Kroonprins construction (⅔) [150,000C, 20M] Constructing 10 Smelteries on Devoort [100,000C] Constructing 10 Mines on Baas [30,000C, 3M] Constructing 3 Farms on Sus

UNITED VENNENDAL A fighter of VFA-02 of the VNS Kolibrie patrols the battlefield around Kreppl Driveyards. The Vennendalic fleet stood amidst the desiccated carcasses of the ERTC sector forces. Where once tracers and shells streaked across the starry void, now was black and still. Given the respite, Vennendalic flagship, the VNS Kolibrie, had begun to unfurl its primary radiators; having accumulated tremendous excess heat during the fray. This was much in part to the overworked coilgun batteries the ship was outfitted with. As the ship deployed its heat-dispersing mechanisms, aboard the bridge, the Fleet Admiral garnered his after-action reports from his own bridge crew and the rest of the task force. “...The Adelaar is at 50% hull integrity, Admiral. Captain Bosch is requesting permission to break off.” said a signal officer. Karel sighs, walking to the front of the bridge. “Negative. Tell her she’ll need to institute mobile repairs. We need her and her guns on station.” he says, gazing out towards the battlefield’s aftermath. “We’re not through yet.” The officer nods knowingly, relaying the message with haste, as he turns back to his monitor. Just past the wreckage were the disabled gun batteries and her driveyard. Somewhere out there, destroyers sifted through the debris, shining their floodlights and searching for survivors or anything of value. The prize ships of the ERTC fleet were now nothing more than scrap. Two modern dreadnought hulls had blocked their path, presumably fresh off the lines and pressed into service. Now nothing remained, as a bright inferno engulfed the surrounding area, likely a magazine detonation, sending shrapnel streaking in every direction as the hurtling wreck drifted into obscurity. There would be no prize ships this day, thought Elfering. However, Vennendal was now left with the means to produce her own dreadnoughts, to her own specifications. The Fleet Admiral practically licked his lips as he stared towards the vulnerable driveyards, the future of Vennendal and the backbone of her navy in his sights… “Sweep concluded, sir.” came a voice from behind him. “Good, we’re done here.” “Where to now, sir?” “Onwards.” ACTIONS [20,000C] Salvage teams are commissioned to pick through battlefield wreckage for usable hulls. ((LOOK HERE)) [170,000C, 1HP, 20M, 10A, 10T] Beginning Kroonprins construction. (⅓) [30,000C, 20NP, 6M] Constructing 1 Light Cruisers [60,000C, 32NP, 16M] Constructing 8 Destroyers [7,500C, 6NP, 3M] Constructing 30 Freighters [28,900 * 1.5 = 43,350C, 14,450] Purchasing 85 Food [5,040 * 1.5 = 7,560C, 2520 difference] Purchasing 14 Alloys 304,470

UNITED VENNENDAL With the Stadtholder taking it upon himself to bear the full weight of his office, Lord Karel Elfering had little time for his children. Yet he couldn’t be in two places at once, and would rarely delegate tasks to one or another. This was one such case. His children were often in no such position to deny his requests. Two brothers; Julius and Cornelius, lounged in the corner booth of a local Voorstian officers’ bar, the Bootstrap. “Though I didn’t like it, It’s done. Vennendal will have her fleet.” said Julius, speaking over dinner. “We all have to make sacrifices, dear brother.” Cornelius replied, uninterested in his meal, as he lit a cigarette taking a drag. "You did good." As Cornelius’s smoke drifted across the table, Julius coughed. The Navy-man spent much time aboard sterile and climate-controlled environments, so that slight exposure to these pollutants elicit a response from him. Cornelius glanced at his brother, realizing. “Apologies.” he said, snuffing out the embers. “Forget it.” said Julius, shrugging it off. “I hear our half-brother, Aarno Verschooris, is leading the ground force vanguard.” Cornelius raised a brow, calmly stating, “He’s a capable leader. I have faith they’ll bring the western worlds to heel.” “Hm." Julius mused. "I only feel sorry for Hendrika. She hardly ever sees her husband. That man is Army before family.” “Well, doesn’t that sound familiar. No different than with our dear father.” said Cornelius. “I want to say I resent that, but-” “I know.” Cornelius said knowingly. For a few moments, there was a pause, as the two wordlessly finished their meals or looked about. “Well.” said Julius, seeming eager to wrap up. “It was nice catching up, but I must be going. Perhaps a few more provisions before I shuttle back to my division. They want us with the invasion force.” “Give them hell, brother.” said Cornelius, leaning into his seat, as he glanced at the dishes they’d picked clean. “Count on it.” ACTIONS [150,000 C, 25M] Building Trade Depot on Lippelo [100,000 C, 20M] Building 10 Commercial Districts on Lippelo [150,000 C, 40M, 80NP] Constructing 20 Destroyers [60,000 C, 12M, 40NP] Constructing 2 Light Cruisers [5,000C, 2M, 2NP] Constructing 1 Fighter Squadron [MOD] The invasion of ERTC space actually begins now.

UNITED VENNENDAL MEUZEGEM SYSTEM 1300 HOURS VOORST TIME Towards the western reaches of Vennendal space, a single vessel exited hyperspace as it infringed upon the gravity well of the K-type star, Meuzegem’s, gravity well. Taking several moments to recover from the impetus of their sudden deceleration, the vessel quickly spooled its sunlight drives and continued along it’s journey, hardly visible save for the flaring impulse drives, which so kindly illuminated its course and trajectory. There was nothing particularly interesting about this ship. It seemed to be an ordinary merchant freighter making its scheduled cargo runs. The ship soon faded out of view, streaking towards the opposite end of the system like a comet. Unlike a comet, however, these void-faring vessels weren’t bound to the forces of nearby celestial bodies. More and more, these ships penetrated Vennendal space, with the unifying commonality of allegiance to the Eastern Rim Trade Company. However, there were other vessels in the system. Shrouded in the darkness of the star’s tidally-locked world, a small armada has amassed, those of the Vennendalic Navy. With systems largely powered down, they observed every passing ship, be it armed or civilian. At the center of the formation was one, particular capital ship, whose hull read Kolibrie. Aboard the Kolibrie’s bridge, action was scarce. Saving for the blinking displays on the CIC monitors, everyone and everything was still. By the viewport, a sharply-dressed man turned, his uniform signifying him as the ship’s XO. “Sir.” he said, addressing his superior. “That’s the thirtieth Company vessel to pass this week.” “Noted, Scheel.” said the ship’s captain. This man was no ordinary naval captain, however. In his stark white dress uniform and cap, adorned with all its honors, stood Karel Frederik Elfering, current Stadtholder of Vennendal and Fleet Admiral of the Vennendalic Navy. He was elderly, no surface spared from wrinkles, though, didn’t hold a coin to the tenures of the decrepit Grand Admirals of the Empire and the Republic. Though what he lacked in experience, he compensated for in sheer will and aggression- evidenced by his tenuous campaign to repel Irik and Loyalist forces at every turn. Karel strided down the bridge’s central runway, his mag-boots clacking against the metal surface and his presence commanding the attention of the bridge officers staffing the adjacent operations pits. Karel stopped just short of the viewport, turning to address the bridge crew. “Gentlemen, this has been a long time coming. For too long have the men and women of Vennendal been trampled beneath the boots of the mercantilist scourge. During the Empire’s darkest hour, the cowardly company-men pounced upon our western holdings, planting their flag of oppression, and have remained a thorn in our side ever since. Their ships mindlessly extract the wealth and resources from our worlds. In further insult, they parade their plunder through our hyperlanes, carrying their loot away to fuel their insatiable greed. To this, I say, no longer! Vennendal is back.” Without hesitation, a thundering “HOOYAH.” resounded throughout the bridge, a fire burning in the eyes of each crewmember at this call to action. “At ease!” Karel barked, grinning in self-indulged satisfaction. “I’m proud of each and every one of you. You’d do damn well to remember that.” Scheel marched up to the Fleet Admiral, snapping to attention. “Your orders, sir?” he asks, with a certain eagerness. “Relay a message to the ERTC enclave. It begins.” . . . . “VENNENDAL HAS RETURNED TO RESTORE DOMINION OVER ITS WESTERN STARS. CORPORATE PERSONNEL ARE TO SURRENDER NOW OR PERISH IN VAIN.” sike ACTIONS [MOD] At the end of the year, Karel Frederik Elfering leads an invasion against the ERTC’s enclave, along the southern hyperlane, as he simultaneously demands the surrender and return of Vennendal’s territories. [300,000 C] Colonizing worlds

UNITED REALM OF VENNENDAL Capital: Tameraad, Voorst Official Languages: Galactic Basic, Vennendalese Religion: No official religion Government: Constitutional elective monarchy Head of State: Karel Frederik Elfering van Tameraad, Stadtholder of Vennendal, Prince of Voorst History/Culture: Amidst the Inner Rim, Vennendal as it is known, has thrived for some three centuries beneath the tutelage of the esteemed Elfering dynasty. Despite, it’s relative proximity to the Core, the province was able to forge its own, unique identity. Long ago, the Elferings cautiously walked the fine line that divided the Senate, and the Empire’s politics, taking care to draw the ire of Loyalist or Republican, lest the winds of change (Senate decree) evict them from their home. Though not a particularly wealthy province, the Elferings cemented themselves as capable, dependable allies with a certain charming, fighting spirit. Towards the end of the Third Empire, the Elferings comprised a respectable portion of the more moderate Loyalists. However, despite Vennendal’s long loyalty to the Starcast Throne, Emperor Ran-Ji would cast aside the Elferings, when he selected his cabinet, weaving a grievous insult to Stellarch Gerrit Elfering’s pride. The Emperor favored a dog, which he could more readily control- the Matarekas of Takaksai- passing over the Elferings for a key position within the Loyalist War Council, amidst the senatorial crisis. So infuriated was Stellarch Elfering, that he raised his banner for the now exiled Republicans, devoting himself and his province fully against Ran-Ji. Ran-Ji would meet his end, though not as Gerrit would’ve hoped. Humanity’s infighting would see the collapse of the northern marches, as hordes of Irik warfleets surged south, overtaking much of the Core and putting the borders of Vennendal within a stone’s throw of the alien menace. It is rumored that Gerrit Elfering was so shocked by this news, that he suffered from a heart attack on the spot. However, it is commonly accepted that his passing came as a result of old age. Despite the Stellarch’s passing, the province was still nominally aligned to the Republic, and was in danger of being revoked from Elfering control. However, Vennendalic lobbying efforts would prevail. Though Gerrit did indeed have a son, he named no successor. Whether or not Vennendal would even have a say in the matter remained in the air. Yet, this would not deter the fiercely independent peoples of Vennendal. The Vennendalic delegation proposed a plan to institute an elective constitutional monarchy within Vennendal space- to appeal to the more liberal wings of the Republican movement. This provision passed, allowing Vennendal certain ‘special administrative status’ within the Republic, as the former Mandate of Vennendal became United Vennedal overnight. Gerrit’s eldest son, war hero Karel Frederik Elfering, was nominated for Stadtholder. Though skeptical, he would assume the post, seeking to restore the province to its former heights. Despite the troubles which plague humanity, the Vennendalische remain an optimistic people- this is reflected in the application of new materials and technology into their ever growing warfleet. The Vennendalische lived to roam the stars, with employment among the Vennendal Navy the most coveted profession of all. They are an industrious people, with their own code of honor and loyalty. Yet, some of the fringe Loyalists may find this ironic. However, the Vennendalische wholeheartedly believe that it was Emperor Ran-Ji who betrayed Vennendal, not the other way around. Characters: His Excellency, Karel Frederik Elfering van Tameraad, Stadtholder of Vennendal, Prince of Voorst While having missed most of the fighting during the Galactic Civil War, Karl Frederik Elfering was pushed into naval command as a result of the desperate need for admirals. Having joined the Vennendalische Provincial FLEETCOM as a young adult, he quickly rose through the ranks of the Vennendalic Navy, where he proved to be a capable, swift, and aggressive commander- proposed to receive a commission in the Republican Navy by his father. Though serving as a subordinate of the Grand Admirals, his fleet actions garnered much traction across Vennendal space, and was soon enough proposed as a candidate for the position of Stadtholder; a worthy successor to his father, Gerrit Willem Elfering. Reluctantly, Karel assumed the reins of Vennendal, believing the resources and influence afforded to the Stadtholder would allow him to finance operations to reclaim lost tracts of Vennendalische space. Her Excellency, Ana Elfering van Tameraad née Manhuera, Princess-consort of Voorst For nearly half a century, Ana has been wed to Vennendal’s current Stadtholder, Karel Frederick Elfering. Though the marriage was the result of meddling by the late Stadtholder Elfering and then Vice Admiral Manhuera, they forged a relationship based upon respect and trust, so much so that Ana de facto serves as the province’s administrative head in her husband’s absence. The Honorable, Julius Paul Elfering van Tameraad, Viscount of Westerholt, Commodore of the Verenigde Vennendalische Marine Despite being the first son of Vennendalishe war hero Karel Frederick Elfering, Julius has so far been unable to inspire confidence in the province’s constituents. Having hinged on a career in the Navy to establish his name, his efforts have fallen short as much of the turmoil seems to have simmered down, before he’d even received a commission. Furthermore, his young ascent to the rank of Commodore is surrounded by rumors that his father personally pushed through the promotion through the red tape. It is unknown whether this is true, but Julius has so far been eager to prove his merit, much to the dismay of his superiors, who struggle to reign in the ambitious officer, though neither dare nor care to put the Elfering before a tribunal. Despite Julius’s perceived arrogance, the young lord means well enough. Adelheid Claudia Elfering van Tameraad, Viscountess of Brengarde The youngest daughter of Karel and Ana Elfering, Adelehid is simply known to be petulant and vindictive, with a strong distaste of people she believes to be beneath her. Hendrika Josefien Verschooris née Elfering van Tameraad, Viscountess of Ramsel An unassuming woman, Adelheid has married into the local Vennendalische aristocracy and spends most of her time as chief executive of the Elfering Foundation. The Honorable, Cornelius Hendrik Elfering van Tameraad, Viscount of Dorne, General in the Vennendalische Grondtroepen Though the second son, the laws of Vennendalische succession have proven to be in favor of young Cornelius. While his brother wastes away in some far-flung duty station, Cornelius had graduated the Voorst Military Academy with excellence, rose through the ranks, and is generally well-liked among soldiers and Army officers. Cunning and calculative, Cornelius is not above using underhanded tactics to achieve results. Charlotte Sophie Teniert née Elfering van Tameraad, Viscountess of Reimst A graduate of the Cornelissen School of Business, Charlotte is exceptionally intelligent and shrewd. She has since been married to Alistair Teniert, to forge greater bonds with the other reaches of the Inner Rim. She possesses a refined palate, and a keen eye for expensive things, never quite happy with what she has. Unique Units: KROONPRINS-CLASS DREADNOUGHT (BLINK/RAM/REINFORCED DREADNOUGHT) “The last of its kind, the Kroonprins yearns for yards to be reborn; their progeny to reclaim the stars.” - Vice Admiral Bernard Hinrichs, regarding the Kroonprins-class dreadnought. Before the Civil War, Vennendal hosted its own domestic capital ship industry. These driveyards, however, would be lost- caught between the fighting of Republican, Loyalist, and Irik forces. This was not before the yards constructed their final series of dreadnought, the Kroonprins-class. [Redacted] hulls of this class remain, and are cherished possessions of the Verenigde Vennendalische Marine. These upgraded dreadnoughts possess improved hull strength, modular armor plating, and a heavy-duty blink-drive, capable of rapidly teleporting the Kroonsprins across the battlefield in an instant. The ultradense hull of the Kroonprins allows it to survive otherwise catastrophic collisions with enemy ships, allowing it to be an effective rammer- through blink acceleration or otherwise. [Increased HP/Armor, Special Ram attack?] POLTERGEIST II-CLASS DESTROYER (BLINK-DRIVE, DESTROYER) “No other ship could meet the expectations that Vennendal demanded from it.” - Excerpt from the Vennendal Navy Combat Manual; pg. 56, on sub-capital ships. Vennendal first pioneered the blink-drive in the years preceding the Imperial Civil War. Yet, the technology would only come fruition following the Collapse, as Vennendal became a battleground between Republican, Loyalist, and Irik forces. It was neither the dreadnoughts nor the fleet carriers which were most attributed to the protection of Vennendal’s sovereignty, but the original Poltergeist I-model destroyers, which proved to be workhorses of the Vennendalic Navy- capable of rapidly closing the distance with enemy ships and launching a devastating barrage of heavy torpedoes. Now upgraded to modern specifications, these ships are expected to continue their venerable service records. [Access to Blink Drive ability, Extra Torpedo Damage] National Idea: Two for Flinching Vennendal has perfected the use of the Blink Drive. Activating the Blink Drive is a free action. All ships are Blink-Drive equipped. Letter: T