TankM1A2

The state ensign of Przeworsk COUNTY OF PRZEWORSK Discord name: Already in the Dissy Nation Type (County/Marcher Lord/Free City): County Nation Flag (optional): The arms of the House of Wróbl Nation Name: County of Przeworsk Nation Culture: The Przeworski are but a cultural sub-group of the overarching Kiralski identity which dominates the Imperial Heartlands, The Przeworski are defined by their affinity to the sea, using it to bring heaps of wealth manifest to their shores. As a result, the coast-dwelling Przeworski have adopted lavish lifestyles from the regional barons down to even the commoners, with ample coin to reliably provide for their families. Should one not choose to pursue the career tradesmen, the Przeworski lowlanders often seek employment within the Przeworski Navy, to such an extent where press gangs are deemed wholly unnecessary. However, not all Przeworski are granted such opportunity, for in the north are the Przeworski highlands which are marked by bitter, mountain peaks and dense woodlands. These parts are where the forces of the County’s State Army are often raised from, where the men often lead deadend lives though whose breed is both strong and hardy. The Przeworski are fine shipwrights, carried not by their might in gunpowder, but the care and craftsmanship poured into each hull laid upon the shores of Przeworsk. Due to their geographical location, they have often butted heads with the Estish Kingdom to their south, having engaged in many a naval skirmish with their neighbor, much to the dismay of the greater Empire, already hampered with strife and enemies. Nation History: Przeworsk began as no more than a lowly feudal lord’s holding- a burgeoning town located on the Kastyny Bay- and one of few natural harbors on this particular stretch of southern coast. Naturally, ships from all corners of the world anchored here for safe refuge, restock provisions, and offload their wares. With these seafarers came the tradesmen, who would claim whole seaside neighborhoods for themselves and dedicate them to their professions, buying and selling goods, and transforming them into a different product entirely. Przeworsk soon gained the reputation of a bustling, prosperous city, as industry sprouted and immigrants came crashing in like the tide itself. As a result, the lords of Przeworsk gained much influence over their neighbors, subsuming all but the mightiest neighbors, with economies and militaries to rival their own. Yet as the decades pressed on, more and more of Przeworsk’s neighbors were drawn into the Kiralski Empire as enemies began to circle the disparate states, who now sought unity and protection. Rather than face subjugation by force and almost certainly face defeat, the Przeworski ruler opted to swear fealty to the Emperor resulting in him and his legitimate male issue named Counts of Przeworsk, a title which the family holds to this day. The lineage of Wróbl has weathered the storm through the Empire's golden days to their darkest hours, with many a member and Przeworski citizen having given their life in defense of Kiralska. Throughout the course of their existence, the House of Wróbl has shown no intention of deviating from their intrinsic connection to the Kiralski Empire and have been regarded as staunch loyalists to the Imperial Throne. However, this loyalty may very well be seen as a fault, as the Late Count Mariusz the Greater, father to the current Count Mariusz the Younger, was all too eager to call the banners and raise funds for an ill-conceived and fated expedition, which culminated and his death and the Empire's humiliating defeat to the Azari Trazmir. The immense loss of Przeworski life and a handful indispensable warships was an immense setback for the new Count, having inherited an outraged population and a state on the brink of financial ruin. Yet, Mariusz the Younger swore to avenge his father, committing every last bone in his body to restoring the realm to it's former glory so that Przeworsk may once again take to the seas, resting only when the Trazmiri fleets lays foundered at the depths of the Southern Ocean. Religion: The House of Wróbl and the majority of Przeworsk are staunch Vaserics, with the ruling family tracing their lineage to the Vaseric saint, St. Henryk the Fair; a benevolent ruler, renowned arbitrator, and progenitor of the House of Wróbl. Przeworsk has maintained favorable relations with the mother church over the years, making liberal use of the arcane wares they provide. Special Characters: Mariusz Wróbl, Count of Przeworsk The Count Marius is now half a decade into his reign, having brought about unprecedented prosperity to his people, with no indication of slowing down. Marius is a staunch supporter of the Imperial throne, but most importantly, of the regent, Jan Dusza, to which his support can often be counted upon. Though a benevolent ruler, he has been a firm advocate for the curbing and dismantling of both Estish and Trazmiri influence in the Southern Ocean. Though far from the borderlands, he has often sided with the plight of the Marcher Lords, though criticized in the Sejm as having nothing to lose in these far-flung wars. Yet this could not be any farther from the truth, as both Eestergaard and Trazmir cut deep into the market, wounding not only the sailors who fought to preserve the Prezworski way of life, but the Count’s coffers too. Adrian Wróbl, Heir Apparent to the County of Przeworsk Adrian, son of the Count Mariusz has only recently come of age. Though he is young, he has been deeply engrained with knowledge passed on by his father. Count Mariusz has high expectations of his only son and heir and treads a thin line between pressing him towards greatness and driving between them a wedge as a result of his ruthless education and drilling. To his father's relief, their relationship has remained amiable. Thus far, he has revealed himself to be a man of honor, perseverance, and a firm believer in loyalty and civic duty. Since his eighteenth nameday, Adrian has faithfully commanded the Przeworski fleet, acting as the executor of his father's will upon the seas, having been bid to take a hardline stance against the Estish to protect Imperial trade and fishing rights. Settlement map of the County of Przeworsk, officially; Lands of the Coronet of Saint Henryk

wholesome 100 :'D

KALOREIA VRACHATION ____________________________________________________ It was another unsuspecting day on the Elraic Empire’s northern shores. From the cliff-steeped heights outside of Nova Karlovasi, one might gaze endlessly unto the horizon and claim to see Gerakunos from where they stand, on a clear day. Though this was just fantasy, the day proved resplendent as the clouds long parted for the Sun’s incandescent glow, whose light in turn shimmered against the water as the waves gently lapped against the white, sandy beaches. For this reason, the King often used this location as a retreat, founding here both estate and vineyard. Despite being so far away from his seat of governance, he’d often use this place to hear the concerns of council, citing clearer mind from the countryside. And so, the various Vrachatian lords made their journeys across the virgin landscapes of the country, Vrachati having yet to meaningfully invest in it’s own infrastructure. His Majesty and a number of advisors, kin, commanders, and other attendants gathered themselves upon a cut stone semi-circular bench in the middle of the estate’s gardens. As the sound of trickling water from the fountain or the warbling of imported birds chirped lightly over their conversation, one might argue that better spots could be found to discuss matters of state. Though none would dare bring this up to King Gallaros. Among those gathered were figures such as Lord Hicesias Sideris, the Master of Ships, who was reluctant to leave his post, Lord Marcion Leos, the King’s surrogate father of sorts, and renowned commander and explorer Lord Praxiades Mandrapilias of Pelathousa. Some looked more tense than others, while others indulged in the luxuries provided for by the King and reclined. “Gentlemen, I’m sure you’ve heard that the Anakhta has summoned His Imperial Council.” Gallaros declared, mulling over a glass of wine. He was met by a series of nods and various other guttural sounds which signaled agreement. “It pains me, though I must go to the Heartlands to answer this call.” “Fret not, the realm is in good hands. I’ve never seen a more capable group of men.” beamed Lord Praxiades, raising his cup outwardly to the center of the congregation. He was met with a series of *ayes* and clinks as wine sloshed around it’s cups. “That I am not afraid of not.” Gallaros chuckles, patting Lord Marcion on the shoulder as he engages in the toast. Though after another swig of wine, his countenance turns grim. “The Anakhta’s health diminishes, so the rumors tell. We must be prepared for the aftermath.” “Quite so.” Lord Marcion chirps. “Vrachati finds herself surrounded by various strategoi-governorships, whose loyalty could be quite fickle, enduring beyond the tenure of their appointers.” “They are honorable men, I’m sure.” stated Lord Hicesias. “They will respect the transition of power. We need not concern ourselves with them, and work towards ourselves.” This too was followed by a series of ayes and nods. “Indeed.” Gallaros remarks. “While I’m gone, I’ve several tasks for you all, which I’m sure you’ll see done to your utmost ability. As my hand, naturally Lord Marcion will oversee governance and hold court in my absence.” he then turns to another, “Lord Praxiades, you too shall depart.” Praxiades made a brow, though knew better than to interrupt. “Yes, we immediately begin expanding our influence beyond our shores. I leave you the northern squadron, to probe the spiral and report back, for we shall see if the archipelago is suitable for settlement. This’ll greatly expand our reach of operations.” “Count on it, Your Majesty.” Praxiades nods. The king abruptly stands, “Let us not dawdle, gentlemen. For we will forge our path not through wealth nor force of arms, but through our piety and resolve.” he says, raising his cup of wine towards the Sun with an air of certainty. “Sehula bless this union.” ____________________________________________________ ACTIONS [44,000G, 10S] Lord Marcios Leos organizes for a cross-country infrastructure project, paving roads throughout the barren countryside to join the disparate Vrachatian cities. While he does this, he grants a municipal charter thus elevating a once unsuspecting town of Anavra to the status of City! [Exploration] Lord Praxiades is sent to probe the mysterious pinwheel islands and determine viability for settlement! If he can, he should also establish diplomatic contact with the local governments of the region! Lord Praxiades sets sail with a fleet consisting of 10 Dromons and 1 Explorer Ship, as well as a company of two Solar adepts. [17,000G, 4L] Constructing 2 Dromons with Sea Guard [15,000G, 6L] Constructing 6 Hemiolias [19,500G, 9I] Recruiting 1,500 Regular OH Heavy Infantry [7,500G] Constructing Quarry! 370 gold to the treasury!

Application: Discord name (PM if you wish): Tank Nation Type: Kingdom Nation Flag (optional): Nation Name: Kaloreia Vrachation [Kingdom of Vrachati] Are you in the Elraic Empire? (If so state in what way you're a sub-region of the empire - client kingdom, appointed/hereditary governor, military order, etc): Subject of the Elraic Empire, Kaloreia Nation Culture (Brief description): The Vrachatians are a hard-working, innovative, and pious folk who dwell upon the northern shores facing the Mesogean. In the past, Vrachati was subject to numerous raids by sea, bloodied regularly by foreign incursions. As a result, the Vrachatians adapted, unifying under a common cause whose doctrine upheld that there was no greater existence than one which lived for the state, which embodied the people of Vrachati. Soldiering and statesmanship were each exalted in their own right, with the former taking the Raging Sun to be their patron while the latter chose the path of the Immortal. Where once disparate tribes reigned, a citizen’s militia took hold to defend the sacred stretches of earth. Those of the Vrachati Sea Guard rose to the challenge, repelling the invaders from the shore, uniting the Vrachatians into a unitary state under the King of the Vrachatians. Service is expected of each man until they are no longer able- until they are discharged from service or maimed to the point of liability- in the case of a soldier. Even then, any retiree should strive to pass down the secrets of their trade, so that the next generation of Vrachatians might continue their work and improve upon it, thus lending to the large number of apprenticeships and academies within the kingdom’s borders. Having fought for and secured their right to live, the Vrachatians now hopefully turn their focus outwards, looking to bring enlightenment to foreign shores and taking in all who’d uphold their sacred tenets. Nation History: The Kingdom of Vrachati (Elraic: Kaloreia Vrachation; Old Vrachatian: Koleio Vrakatiai) is an Elraic kingdom situated on the Mesogean Sea. The Kingdom of Vrachati is a hereditary semi-constitutional monarchy ruled by Kalos Gallaros I. The region is well known for its fishing exports as well as being a regional naval power within the Elraic Empire, of which it is a constituent, autonomous kaloreia. Archaeological record suggests that the early Vrachatians were a sea-faring people, who made their keep by spearfishing in the shallows. A common motif recurring in modern excavation sites often depict two fishermen standing erect atop an outrigger canoe, spears in hand, as the Sun stands between them casting brilliant rays upon the horizon. It was not long until their ancestors formed fishing outposts to facilitate their trade and with them came bustling coastal settlements. The new industry brought about an era of growth and prosperity as the early Vrachatians brought in fish a plenty with each catch, providing both security and sustenance to their growing families. However, this golden era was not long to last. Where once every man could take to the seas and share their bounty, now would stand only greed and strife. Centuries of unabated fishing had led to a sharp decline of the fish populations of Vrachati. Now parties of fishermen from a particular village could spend the whole day out at sea with only a meagre catch to show. It was not long until these parties crossed formerly respected, though unofficial, boundaries of control. To the dismay of struggling fishermen of one city, foreign fishermen of a rival city enter and scour their waters for what little they had. Tensions finally boiled over when a Falinesti fisher speared a Pelathousan fisher through the chest during an otherwise routine morning hunt, citing thievery in broad daylight. The conflict was not relegated to the waves, but quickly spilled over the land, resulting in the Fishmonger Wars as representatives of the various fishing outposts demanded retribution for perceived injustices. After a few months of fighting, the Vrachatians had beaten themselves bloody. It was not until the campaigns of Prodromos the Unifier, of Apsalos, were the grumbling villages brought to heel under the banner of the Meric Sun. The Meric Sun is the prevailing iconography in which Vrachatians might find a sense of unity or pride. Once the personal standard of Prodromos I, it has been adopted by each of his successors as a symbol of royal legitimacy and power. The reign of Prodromos I was notable not only for the sweeping centralization of power and installation of bureaucratic institutions and construction of schools, temples, and public forums, but the remediation of overfishing issue and overstepping of territorial rights. Through the Grand Ordinance of Vrakati, Prodromos I drew the first administrative lines between the feuding city-states, founding the jurisdictions of the country’s modern constituent states. Furthermore, Prodromos I decreed the implementation of measures to ease the strain on local food source populations. Those such as the limiting of fishing to certain times of the day at certain times of the year as well as specialized breeding programs in offshore reservations to be released back into the wild. The Vrachatians were soon in tune not just with themselves but with the greater natural world. Though a capable administrator and ruler, Prodromos was also hailed a religious leader. Prodromos I had explained that their suffering was the result of their own actions and that their people had grown wicked and complacent and were thus punished by God through famine and war. Yet they might repent their sins and rectify their wrongdoings through charity and neighborly acts. Prodromos used his new institutions and cultural centers to spread his word. Once bitter rivals from varying city-states now came to realize their transgressions, against both fellow man and God, by extension of turmoil of his created and favored children. Tensions would soon subside, as the once directionless Vrachatians, embraced their new faith with open arms. Now a common system of belief united the Vrachatians, bringing them ever closer, as new trade lanes and opportunities sprouted upon land and sea as the Vrachatians learned to serve each other, for the greater good. The reign of the Prodromenids persisted undisturbed for some two centuries. That is until the midst of the reign of Prodromos VIII, the beginning of the Tribulations, when scores of foreign barbarians landed upon the shores of Vrachati, bringing ruin to every village they set foot upon, murdering and pillaging as they went. So much time had passed since the Vrichati had to raise their blades that any response mustered proved ineffectual at every turn, the hordes of seaborne raiders returning week after week and smashing aside what little resistance stood in their path. It was during this time that the Vrachatian city of Karlovasi was razed and salted by the invader, as the most grievous insult intended. In response to being unable to stop these persistent barbarian incursions, the tribal leaders of Vrachati unanimously deposed Prodromos VIII in favour of his son who’d taken up the name Prodromos IX. Whereas his father shied from combat and often deferred to his cowardly advisors, Prodromos IX was fiercely independent, enacting numerous sweeping edicts within his first week of rule. This began with the Civil Defense and Muster Readiness Mandate which dictated that every man must own a weapon. This was further compounded by an act which saw Prodromos IX’s personal coffers emptied to subsidize the opening of new mines and promotion of the smithing trade to support such a mass armament of the population. Prodromos IX vowed that the Vrachatians would be ready for the return of the barbaroi and would drive them back to whence they came. Enlisting the aid of a Falinesti Sunscryer, Prodromos was informed that the next attack would come upon the beaches of Apsalos when the days were at their longest. Convinced that this was the epic trial that God intended, Prodromos IX mustered what men he could on that notice and made his stand upon the shores of Apsalos. His ranks stood eight hundred strong, all well equipped, with each man afforded sword, shield, and bow. As the Sunscryer foretold, the barbarians poured over the horizon and spilled onto the sands of Kavalos like the tide itself. The Vrachatian response was swift as arrows from disciplined ranks fell upon the invader, felling countless as they charged the defenders. Prodromos IX vowed that not another barbarian would step foot on Vrachatian soil, thus ordering his men to charge and meet the foe on the beach. Leading his men from the front, the Vrachatians fought viciously for hearth and home, slaying every invader that dared stand before them and driving the rest back into the sea. Prodromos IX’s soldiers had proven so effective this day, that modern Vrachatian tactics still draw upon his tactics and teachings and gave rise to the concept of Karabisianoi, or people of the sea, and the founding of the esteemed Vrachati Sea Guard. The people of Vrachati had prevailed and thus gave rise to a new cultural revolution, one which promoted the Vrachatians as true masters of the sea and those truly virtuous and honorable. The Vrachatians continued as a regional power for another decade, protecting their thin stretch of land from pirates and invaders alike with their newly founded Royal Vrachatian Navy, allowing trade to flow unharassed through their waters. Despite this era of peace and stability, the Vrachatians were on track to a major turning point in their politics and relations with the outside world. Foreigners came upon their shores, bringing not war and bloodshed, but with goods and news. These foreigners took immediate interest with Vrachatian customs and wares and likewise so the Vrachatians towards theirs. An unprecedented cultural exchange had gone underway as the foreigners explained how similar their peoples were and that not long off their shores a sweeping force was united the disparate lordships and kingdoms beneath his banner, the Immortal Sun, which brought civilization and progress to its wake. Such a harmonious union seemed too good to be true, that is until these foreign dignitaries offered the Vrachatians a place within the newly discovered Elraic Empire. Of course others saw this as a thinly-veiled threat, an ultimatum for submission before this Empire. Their fears were further compounded through news entering the port of Vrachati of the Elraic Empire subjugating the Vrachatian’s neighbor kingdoms, with refugees and other heralds telling stories of massacre and pillage. If what they had heard was true, Vrachati could not hope to stand in the face of awesome might. They were hesitant as they had preserved their independence and sovereignty for over half a millennia. Ultimately, the Vrachatians settled with the Elraic envoys, establishing Elraic protection over the Kingdom in return for naval service. The deal was framed as mutually beneficial. Ultimately, the Vrachatians were admitted into the Elraic Empire without further hiccup, with little changing in their day to day lives, as a new era prosperity and growth was ushered in under their new overlord. The prevailing religion in the Kingdom of Vrachati is the Church of the Eternal Sun, a form of worship not centered around the Imperial sovereigns, but Sun itself. Though Sun worship is most common, several minority religions are allowed practice with the exception of shamanist faiths and those who draw power from the forces of corruption. Vrachatian worship circles around the celestial body of the Sun itself, otherwise referred to as the Eternal Sun or simply as God. The Immortal Sun is often personified as the Father, whose patronage is often adopted by the rulers of Vrachati, other stewards and administrators. Due to the Sun’s association with power and guidance, a version of the Immortal Sun has subsequently been co-opted onto the arms of the Kingdom of Vrachati; dubbed the Meric Sun, or Segmented Sun. The Meric Sun is called so because of its deliberate dividing into eight distinct rays, each representative of a different aspect of the one whole that comprises the Solar Faith. For example, the Vrachatian sect of the Church of the Eternal Sun venerates eight saints, honored figures of Vrachatian history of great piety, charity, and sacrifice. These include Saint Renata, the patron saint of childbirth and fertility, and Saint Ignatius, who represents old age and wisdom. Notably, the number eight holds significance in both Vrachatian religion and society and is typically associated with creation. It is commonly believed, known, that life could not be possible without the nourishment and light that it bestows. As such, centuries have seen the growth of a sizable minority faith and group of magic practitioners, the Creationist sect, who wield alchemical powers to honor the Segmented Sun. Whereas the Immortal Sun is typically viewed as a whole and a bigger picture, the Creationists emphasize the constituent components and recognize the role that each piece plays toward the integrity of each structure. As a result, Vrachatian creationists have held their faith’s saints to the same standard and regard as God himself, much to the skepticism of the main sect of Sun worship. Yet the creationists assert that, as beings forged in the brilliant Sun’s image, they too wield his power, to do good in his name. Interestingly, they might refer to the main faith of the religion as the ‘Preservers’, adherents to the old teachings with strict beliefs regarding the circle of life and man’s place as subjects to God’s will. As the day sets and night rises without fail, the Great Sun is upheld as a symbol of permanence; a perpetual cycle in the Church of the Eternal Sun. Thus more conservative practitioners of the solar faith can misconstrue this ideology into a dogma which shuns straying from the course. In the end, Preservers believe that the Eternal Sun has laid his great plan and that the human race must not bow to temptation and stray from His divine light. On the other hand, Creationists believe that mankind is in charge of their own destiny and may forge their own path. As a result, Preservers tend towards xenophobic encounters and the forceful proselytization of non-believers. Creationists, however, value all religions and cultures equally, seeing them as the necessary gateway for mankind to reach true enlightenment and understand the meaning of self and what it means to be. The Creationists have seen a steady growth in numbers over the years, as their faith preaches hope and possibility in comparison to the Preservers view of keeping to one’s station and blind obedience despite the Sun’s many gifts waiting to be unlocked, rather ironically. Creationist beliefs have gained significant traction with Vrachati’s women, as the system venerates all contributions to the system in an otherwise patriarchal dominated society. Though, this has done little to rescue wives from duty of home and hearth, instead, it has attained them the position of equals within the household and in greater Vrachatian society, for it is they who must defeat the touted ideas of natures and nurture their children into the next generation of Vrachati’s finest and brightest men and women. Special Characters: Gallaros I, King of the Vrachatians Having ascended to the throne within the past two years, the young king’s reign is still in its infancy. Taking the regal name Gallaros, he has strove to forge closer bonds within the Elraic Empire and bring its influence abroad. What Gallaros lacks in experience, he makes up for in zeal and determination. Thus far, his rule has been marked by a rapid naval armament and the creation of new trade lanes and wealth generation. Though one might believe he only serves to fill his coffers, it is rumored that the Kalos have taken a keen interest in the Arcane, sending his soldiers to far-flung corners to pilfer ancient temples and ruins. Regardless, there has been no greater opportunity under any Vrachatian king to take to the seas for honor and glory, and country above all. Hicesias Sideris, First Sea Lord of the Vrachatian Navy Hicesias has served the people of Vrachati for countless years, serving King Gallaros's predecessor faithfully and continuing to this day with unflinching resolve. As the oldest commander in naval service, with the experience and wisdom to boot, he is commonly referred to as "Old Salt" within the ranks of the Navy. The Sea Lord hails from a long lineage of esteemed admirals and is often viewed as the pinnacle of law and order. He expects utmost discipline and obedience from his sailors and will punish dissent and insubordination with a blinded hand. Likewise, any smugglers or pirates to be captured by Sea Lord will find themselves prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Aside from his vendetta against outlaws, Hicesias may very well be why coastal-dwelling Vrachatians can sleep soundly at night. Ser Marcion Leos, Commander of the Vrachatian Sea Guard The young King Gallaros spent much of his youth as a ward beneath Ser Marcion, Lord of Pelathousa, Knight of the Order of St. Ignatius, and Commander of the Vrachatian Sea Guard, and came to be a second father to him. King Gallaros reciprocates Marcion's generosity by naming him his Hand, executor of the King's will. Marcion has used this power to revitalize Vrachati's domestic industry, turning the state into an exportation economy by refining goods hauled home by the Vrachatian merchant marine. He has come to known as one of the 'great administrators' of Vrachatian history, though at an unknown cost. It is said that Ser Marcion has engaged in an unknown number of shady backroom dealings. While some dismiss this as rumor, others might believe this to be a small price to pay to ensure that every Vrachatian sleeps beneath a roof and can afford to put dinner on the table each day. Primary Magic: Solar Secondary Magic: Ouroboraeans Unique Point of Interest (Unique "wonder" building/location/artefact, natural or otherwise, that will confer a small bonus TBD): The Auric Praesidium - Headquarters of the Vrachati Sea Guard. The Praesidium is a coastal megafortress whichs acts as both the training center of the elite Sea Guard as well as an intelligence hub and strategic coordination center for the Vrachatian Navy. This bastion is as old as the order itself, and serves as a reminder of the resolve and the ingenuity of the Vrachatian peoples. Boink.

THE PROVISIONAL GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF DOUGLAS _____________________________________________________________________________________ Colonel Robert Vernon Craig endorses Frankie Callahan at Lake Meadows Park; c. 2279 A NEW ERA The Republic of Douglas is on the path to recovery. Chairman-Colonel Robert Vernon Craig announces his ‘abdication’ of the post, which allowed him unprecedented influence over Douglodian affairs. This move comes suddenly to the shock of Douglodian citizens, who were led to believe that the military governor would continually consolidate power. Many are led to believe that this resignation came as a result of the pirate attack. However, moments later the Colonel released a formal statement which declared the return of power to the people so that he himself can focus on matters military. Afterwards the Colonel thanks all personnel that made his term in office possible and successful and concludes that free elections will be held at the end of the month. DOUGLODIAN POLITICS What followed was a brief period of turmoil, as prominent Douglodians consolidated support in their own bids for presidency. What would’ve been a myriad number of marginal parties quickly became subsumed, as leaders confederated and found mutual ground with their peers. Word quickly took to the streets, with Douglodian citizens earnestly declaring their allegiance to the newfound parties. The two major parties which arose were the Federal Protection Party (FPP) which championed Frank Callahan and the People’s Party of Douglas (PPD), who supported Anthony McKinney. The FPP were promoted as the party which stood for strong central government, a well financed and regimented military, and outward expansion. Meanwhile, McKinney’s FPP served as the voice of the Douglodian citizen and supported a loose confederation of the neighborhoods, the restoration of pre-War social institutions, and inward perfection and isolation from greater Chicago. PPD Candidate Anthony McKinney advocates for strong borders at the CIT. THE PRESIDENTIAL RACE The following week would see minor rallies and awareness campaigns across Douglas as Federalists and the Populists attempted to garner support with the masses, followed by two townhall-style debates hosted within the Chicago Military Academy, attended by some 300 Douglodians. For the most part, the debates were civil. However, the main points of contention were cooperation with the outside world and, with the advent of new trade routes, the protection of Douglodian industry from foreign goods. McKinney cited Callahan’s hypocrisy on a handful of occasions, though Callahan’s calm and collected demeanor allowed him to weave his way around both the moderator and his opponent’s remarks. The debate, viewed by many, was deemed inconclusive in victor. However, following the conclusion of the debate, Frank Callahan was surprised by an endorsement by Colonel Craig, himself, much to the disapproval of the Populists, who believed that the former chairman should’ve refrained from political intervention. It would seem enough to tip the balance, as Callahan managed to clinch the presidency with a margin of 142 votes. A PATH FORWARD The transition of power is smooth, demonstrated when the now President Frank Callahan and Representative McKinney shook hands in front of the Academy. Callahan wastes no time utilizing his office and announces the Bronzeville Reconstruction Initiative, in which vital infrastructure will be brought to the southern communities in the coming years, much to the approval of his constituents and even his opponents. In a bold and aggressive move, Callahan declares dominion over the area between Douglas and Washington Park, shocking the PPD, who declares that Douglas needs to look after their own first and would be unable even to police such vast swaths of territory. The FPP defends their stance as necessary living room and space in which to expand extraction and industrial operations. Callahan’s policy is divisive among his opposition, with a large minority of FPP supporting Douglodian supremacy, and seemingly creating a rift within McKinney’s coalition before they even got off the ground. With public support soaring, Callahan assesses his strengths and resources and makes his gambit... A duo of T-51b Power Armor troopers standing guard at a customs checkpoint; Bronzeville, Chicago, IL. _____________________________________________________________________________________ ACTIONS [4B, 10,000C] Constructing Chip Manu [2B, 5,000C] Constructing Agri House [1B, 5,000C] Constructing Fuel Refinery [2B, 10,000C] Constructing 2 Markets [12,000 C] Training 48 men to Regular 2B 1 Dev Point into Streamlined Economy [4M, 4E, 2AE] Constructing 4 T-51b Power Armor Suits [MOD] The newly elected President Callahan, having inherited the position of Commander in Chief of Douglas puts the Arsenal’s forces on standby. Meanwhile, the Republic sends a diplomatic mission to the people of New Eden, who they extend a formal invitation to as a member state of the Republic of Douglas, sweetening the offer with a promise of full military protection (meaning that security would not need to be outsourced), representation (meaning that New Eden could elect officials to legislature), and economic support (as President Callahan vows to develop the area from Douglas to the Parks).

THE PROVISIONAL GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF DOUGLAS _____________________________________________________________________________________ Soldiers of A Company, 2nd Battalion, searching the ruins of shelled houses for survivors; c. 2277 22 November 2277 Lt. Richard Goodey It seemed like just another day in Chicago. The denizens of the Republic of Douglas had only just settled into their newly established identity which bound them together. For the past two years, a sense of normalcy and tranquility reigned over the southern suburbs of Chicago. However, this would quickly come crashing down, as one unsuspecting day would bring about the faint echoes of distant gunfire, followed shortly by the distinct whistle of incoming mortar shells which rocked the streets of Douglas proper, in a blaze of shrapnel and high explosives. More than a handful of unawares civilians were struck by this dishonorable attack, crushed by the weight of collapsing buildings or left to limp out of the killzone into any semblance of hard cover. This was an unfortunate reality for the patrons of one Christy’s Cafe, as the building sustained multiple hits, shortly after collapsing in on itself. This continued on for some time as sporadic impacts detonated across Douglas. There seemed to be no discernable target, only the wanton destruction of the Douglodian way of life willed by a seafaring crew of powder gangers. That’s what the men took to calling them- those wasteland riffraff who’s idea of diplomacy was blowing anyone who opposed you to smithereens. What good would that do anyone? Our response came in kind, as we’d finally put that old howitzer to use. Suppose they don’t call us the *Arsenal* for nothing. Yeah, I couldn’t have been more relieved in my life. Douglas wouldn’t have weathered that bombardment for long. The Colonel mobilized almost everyone in the aftermath; had my unit on rescue and recovery. Not gonna lie, I always thought us unassailable- that the bristling muzzles of a thousand rifles, and trust in God and Steel would be enough to keep the Hun at bay. How wrong was I. I came to this realization when I had pull the corpse of the old Mr. Saunders out of the rubble, that is, what was left of him. McGovern was right to drop those bastards. So soon after that senile old lady tried to bring us together in New Eden were we the target of indiscriminate aggression. We were optimistic, I’d admit. Though if this taught us anything, it’s that everyone in the Wasteland is out to get you. I’ll be having a word with the Colonel as we’re gonna need to shore up our defenses and start taking proactive measures. We’re not going to sit around and let that happen again. _____________________________________________________________________________________ ACTIONS [10,000 C, 5B] Expanding into new block [15,000 C, 2B] Constructing 2 Salvage Yard [7,500 C] Constructing Construction Yard [6+15R/50R] Researching T4 Body Armor [3M, 1E] Constructing 16 T3 Rifles [3M] Constructing 25 T2 Rifles [4M] Constructing 100 T1 Rifles 3 Points towards T4 Strength in Numbers [2E] Trading 2E to someone [MOD] As it is Douglas's most important asset, the pre-War howitzer is assigned an extensive security detail and is repositioned in case the raiders had a bead on the firing position. The gun, for now, remains trained on Lake Michigan should another opportunistic attack strike Douglodian shores. 510 C stored

THE PROVISIONAL GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF DOUGLAS _____________________________________________________________________________________ No RP, gotta crunch out some assignments _____________________________________________________________________________________ [2,500 + 5B] Constructing Block Fortification in Douglas [7,500 C + 2B] Constructing 1 Scrap Yard [10,000 C] Training 100 Troops to Trained 3,370 C saved, 5M saved [6+9/50R] Continuing Research on T4 Armor [4M, 4E, 2AE] Constructing 4 T-51B Power Armor Suits [2M] Constructing 50 T1 Pipe Rifles Another development point is put into Strength in Numbers [MOD] Cohen once again tries his hand at breaching the enigmatic door of the Chicago Institute of Technology. He is provided the same resources as was afforded the previous attempt (2M, 4F).

THE PROVISIONAL GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF DOUGLAS _____________________________________________________________________________________ “Absolutely not.” Colonel Craig barked. Lieutenant Holdwick appeared rather dismayed, having been sent on some far flung diplomatic mission, only for his superiors not to heed his word. “Sir, this Protectron presented a unique opportunity to expand our range of operations in Chicago.” “I understand that, lieutenant. But now, the rest of Chicago isn’t our problem. Douglas is.” Doc Hanlon, who sought cross-legged atop a nearby counter in the ops room, concurred, “I have to agree with the Colonel here. We have something worth fighting for, something we’ve worked so hard to establish.” “And I’m not keen to throw that way on the word of a rogue servitor. Hell, who even owns that thing anyway? Why hadn’t they shown their own face?” the Colonel shook his head. “Could be a trap too.” remarked Lt. Stilwell. “Just send me, then.” said Holdwick, out of options. “Negative, lieutenant. I’m already strapped for manpower as it is. We can’t afford to lose you. That’s too great a distance to traverse with too many unknown variables. You understand where I’m coming from?” “I understand, sir.” said Holdwick begrudgingly, dipping his head slightly. “Good. On to more pressing matters. Our operations to the South have left us with vast tracts of land to expand into.” Craig motioned his officers to come near, arraying a map of Chicago onto the table. A number of areas of interest were marked out by color-coded thumbtacks. “Them.” declared Craig, moving a red pin onto the area of New Eden. “They’re too close for comfort.” “Sir?” asked Stilwell. “Nothing yet, lieutenant. We’ll be keeping a firm stance, as their presence has inhibited our operations to the South.” “And of those slaving ghouls, Sir?” asked Holdwick. “Yes, we’ll need to bolster our armed forces significantly. Our Power Armor production will be quite operational by the time they arrive.” _____________________________________________________________________________________ ACTIONS 20,295, 6B [7,500 C, 2B] Constructing 1 Salvage Yard [10,000 C, 4B] Constructing 2 Agri Houses [5,000 C, 1B] Constructing 1 Market [7,500 C] Constructing 1 Construction Yard [2,450 C] Training 7 to Regulars 345 C is saved [3M] 15 T1 LMGs are fashioned [4+5/50R] Research towards T4 Armor [4F] Trading 4 Barrels of Oil to the New California Republic 3 Development Points spent on Strength in Numbers [MOD] With the Capitol operational, the Douglasites attempt another recruitment drive, offering positions in a well-regimented Army, logistical support in either Doc Hanlon’s medical staff or with Cohen’s engineers, or merely safety from the terrors of the Wasteland. [MOD] Meanwhile, Cohen works diligently in an attempt to force open the doors in the Chicago Institute of Technology. 4 Units of Fuel and 2M are made available to him to improvise any sort of breaching device. [Cohen: 1.5 Charisma, 2 Intelligence, 1 Agility, 1.5 Luck]

THE PROVISIONAL GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF DOUGLAS _____________________________________________________________________________________ The interior of the former Chicago Military Academy building bustled with activity, Doc Hanlon found, having been set aside earlier as the capitol of a newfound ‘Provisional Government of Douglas’ For the better part of three years, she had pestered the Colonel to relinquish administrative control to the people. She knew very well how power, or the fallacy of it, consumed the minds of those who wielded it. Simply, the mission could not live under military jurisdiction forever. The Islanders claimed to fight for the old American ideals of freedom and liberty. They could say this as much as they wanted, but it meant nothing until democratic institutions were reinstated in their lands. And they were, to Margaret Hanlon’s surprise. The move seemed to have occurred out of the blue, as the South Chicagoans had been pacified for some time now, and no other military conquests had been had. Although it was peculiar, she heaved a sigh of relief, knowing not how much longer she could claim to serve the interests of the people while she served a military mandate that ruled absolutely. Hanlon stood at the beginning of the Academy’s grounds, only a couple yards of concrete sidewalk separated the archaic crimson brick facade from the street. Although not particularly remarkable on its own, it would serve as a bastion of civilization in the southern suburbs of Chicago. In front of her stood three golden poles, flying the flags of the United States, the Arsenal’s Insignia, and of Chicago, which lapped against a gentle breeze. Behind those was a quadruple wide, gilded entrance, whose doors were fixed open with makeshift footstops. Flanking either side were two armed and armored sentries, facilitating entrance into the capitol. Various personnel periodically made their way in and out of the Academy’s entrance, some carrying boxes while others lugged in furniture. Hanlon’s curiosity propelled her forward, tentatively approaching the watchmen. As she neared, one of the soldiers addressed her, “Doc Hanlon, good you’re here. First Sergeant Cohen is waiting for you in the foyer.” “He is?” she raised a brow, glancing from the soldier and through the entrance where, as told, she saw Michael Cohen directing various engineers and move-in crews throughout the expansive school. “Yes, ma’am. He’s taking a number of civilians on orientation of the grounds.” “I see. Thank you.” she smiled, passing into the Academy’s interior. At the center of the floor was Cohen, with all sorts of people going about their designated business. Cohen was in the midst of jotting down some notes on a clipboard, passing it to an aide as Hanlon came to face to face with him. Remarkably the building was well-lit, perhaps a testament to Cohen’s technical expertise, she noted. Aside from the assorted engineering equipment or filing cabinets worth of papers, the hall was in remarkably good condition. “So good for you to join us, Doc.” Cohen beamed, clad in his drab fatigues, though wearing an orange hardhat as opposed to his steel combat helm. Needless to say, Hanlon was impressed, “The place looks great.” “Oh, there’s a lot more to see. This place has been beneath the radar the whole time, just sitting here. We’re already working on converting the auditorium into a legislature, the gymnasium has been modified into a rec center, and we’ve set aside the nurse’s office for your use and a whole wing for your medical staff.” “That’s amazing. I’ll move my stuff in and get set up, right away.” “Good things are to come, Doc.” “Almost seems too good to be true.” she paused, “Where’s the Colonel during all of this?” Cohen shrugged, uninterested, “My bet’s he’s a couple floors up, in what’s now the operations room. I hear he’s planning something big this year.” Hanlon sighed, “By that metric, I ought to get the med-bay up and running.” “I’ll show you to it.” _____________________________________________________________________________________ ACTIONS [4B, 10,000C] Constructing Chip Manufacturer [15,000C] Constructing 2 Construction Yards [3M] Constructing 15 LMGs [4+1/50R] Researching T4 Body Armor [MOD] Colonel Robert Vernon Craig declares the founding of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Douglas, named after the neighborhood Islander troops had occupied some four years ago. The old Chicago Military Academy is established as the capitol building, with his staff officers and civilian administration taking up posts within. [MOD] Michael L. Cohen leads salvage teams into the pre-War centers of learning of the Chicago Institute of Technology and the Dawson Technical Institute of Kennedy King College. He hopes to recover either usable materials or technical expertise in engineering, architecture, or science. (1 Charisma, 2 Intelligence, 1 Agility, 1 Luck) [MOD] 150 men proceed southwards to secure the southern neighborhoods as a buffer zone. They are divided into three groups and are to push onwards until they reach East 51st St. The soldiers also attempt to persuade any wastelanders to join them, if not the military, then to settle in the new Douglas Republic. (30 T3 Rifles, 120 T1 Firearms, 150 T1 Melee Weapons, 45 T3 Armor evenly distributed. 30 Regulars, 120 Green) 1st Group, commanded by LT G.W. Stilwell (7 Strength, 4.5 Perception, 1 Endurance, 4 Agility, 1.5 Luck) 2nd Group, commanded by SSG James McGovern (16.5 Perception, 1 Intelligence, 1 Agility, 3 Luck) 3rd Group, commanded by LT Richard Goodey (1 Strength, 3 Perception, 3 Charisma, 1 Intelligence, 2 Intelligence, 1.5 Luck)

ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL Islander troopers gathered around a hotplate, chatting as they eat their rations. “What the **** she gonna say anyways to make ‘em feel better? -Hey, real sorry for shooting up your husbands and sons in a park. Here’s some caps for your trouble.” Staff Sergeant James McGovern expressed his dismission of Rock Island’s new ‘reconstruction’ efforts in the South. He was an unforgiving man with a diamond shaped face and spoke in a Bostonian drawl. Gathered around were some of the soldiers tasked with peacekeeping in former Chicago PD territory. “I think you doubt the power of a sincere apology, Staff Sergeant.” remarked Lieutenant Richard ‘****’ Goodey, absorbed in reading a magazine at the other corner of the room. “Lieutenant,” called McGovern, “You should be with me on this one.” “On what?” Goodey shook his head, “You’ve said nothing of substance- just moaned about Doc Hanlon’s reconciliation attempts. The hell’s it matter to you, anyways?” “What if she makes things worse? Huh?” McGovern retorted, seemingly ready to pounce. “Can’t be worse than ignoring the issue completely.” Goodey replied calmly. As it became evident McGovern wouldn’t drop the issue, Goodey lowered his magazine, as he found himself dragged into the conversation. “She’s gonna inflame them. Then we’re gonna get dragged in.” “Then so be it, McGovern. That’s our job. Also saving face isn’t important here. What is is making sure that they’re on board with the Colonel. We’ll need their full cooperation if we’re gonna have any chance in the Wasteland.” First Sergeant Cohen, among the troops gathered round opted now to pitch in, “Ain’t like they’re Krauts or somethin’. They’re Americans too. Alienating them won’t do us any good.” “Hm.” the Staff Sergeant relented, sighing, “Guess you’re right.” “Good, you’ve seen reason, McGovern. Maybe next time you show’ll remorse next time you take the hat off a guy at a 1000 yards.” 1SG Cohen chuckled, standing up and taking his leave and slapped McGovern on the shoulder as he walked by. ACTIONS In response to the recent unrest, 50 troops are moved in to police and garrison Rock Islander’s Southern block. They use any means to sniff out the resistance, using a total of 250 caps to pay off informant(s). 35 Trained 15 Regulars 50 T1 Firearms 50 T1 Melee Weapons 50 T3 Body Armor A separate force of another 50 troops is sent in for the purpose of protecting new infrastructure. Green, T1 Firearms, and Melee In recompense to the civilians of the Rock Island-Chicagoan War, money and material are invested into the region, as well as the opening of a marketplace in the southernmost sector. Chief Physician Margaret Hanlon, with armed escort, travels south to smooth things over with the Chicagoan communities, offering them representation, as a region, in affairs military and civilian. As well, general infrastructure and a marketplace are planned for the south. [750 C, 1B for improvements and 1 Marketplace constructed] (Chief Physician Hanlon, on Civil Reconstruction; 2 Charisma, 2 Intelligence, 1 Luck) (SSG James McGovern, on Overwatch and Reconnaissance, 16.5 Perception, 1 Intelligence, 1 Agility) (1SG Michael Cohen, on Infrastructural Reconstruction; 1 Charisma, 2 Intelligence, 1 Agility, 1 Luck) (1LT Richard Goodey, on Peacekeeping Reconstruction; 1 Strength, 2 Perception, 2 Charisma, 1 Intelligence, 2 Agility, 1 Luck) [15,000 C, 3B] Constructing 2 Markets in North Douglas and 1 in the South [12+3/15R] Finishing Research on T1 Heavy Firearms [1/50R] Beginning Research on T4 Body Armor [3M, 1E] Constructing 16 T3 Carbines

ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7b_p4ppxr8s&ab_channel=MikeCurbCongregation-Topic “Hodges, for God’s sake, turn it off.” “-From sea to shining sea.” The Private First Class Stephen Hodges hummed, rifling through a drawer of pre-War music collections as America the Beautiful sang over the holotape player. Hodges had propped his rifle against the stand, fully immersed in exploring the relics which lay before him. “Let the kid have his moment, Specialist.” 1SG Michael L. Cohen chipped in, himself laying back against the wall of the old formal outfitters building they’ve temporarily taken up residence in. “Ain’t too often you get a moment like these in the wastes.” In a show of his good faith, Cohen took the moment to light a cigarette. Specialist Henry C. Trumbull took the hint, grabbing the sling of his rifle and throwing it over his shoulder. The ecstatic PFC Hodges continued to hum to the tune, evident he had no grasp on the song’s lyrics as his words occasionally devolved into an unintelligible mumble. “Purple mountain, something..” “Man.” said Trumbull, “If you’re gonna make my ears bleed, at least get the damned words right.” “Hey, have some respect, man. This song is a national treasure.” another private asked. “Yeah, who **** in your cereal, Trumbull?” another trooper, Corporal Scott Manley sneered, joining in on the dogpile on Trumbull. “Honestly, if you give the lyrics a good old listen instead of bitching and moaning all the time, you’d realize how beautiful it is. Honestly gives me hope - hope that we can return to days like those sung by our forefathers.” “That’s pretty deep, Sergeant.” said Cpl. Manley, sighing, “I’d say we’re on track. We’re doing pretty well for ourselves, I think.” “Our work is never done.” remarked Cohen, rising to his feet. He cast a glance over towards Hodges, ever enamored by the holotape player, and smiled, patting the dust off his kit with a grunt. “Alright boys, back to it. We’ve still got that wire to set up on South Federal Street.” “Hooah.” “And Hodges- bring that holotape player back to base. That’s an order.” With enthusiasm, Hodges replied, “Yes, sir!” [7,500 C] Constructing Construction Yard in N. Douglas. [7,500 C + 2B] Constructing Salvage Yard in N. Douglas. [2,000 C] Training 20 Troops to Trained [8M] Constructing 4 T1 Firearms [4R+8R/15R] Continuing Research on Heavy Firearms 2 Dev points into Strength in Numbers 1 Dev point into Salvaged Tools

ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL Doctor Margaret Hanlon works around the clock, tending to numerous Islander troops following the Battle of South Douglas; c. 2271 A young man, clad in bloodied olive drab fatigues strode through the entrance of Rock Island’s situation room, coming to a halt at the briefing table where Colonel Robert Vernon Craig and his staff had been discussing strategy. “Colonel.” he stood at attention, saluting his superior. The Colonel turned to the raggedy looking soldier, expecting him to be the bearer of bad news. He’d sent his remaining troops into the meatgrinder, and eagerly awaited the post-battle assessment. Colonel Craig was a tired man, having not deployed boots on the ground in years. He resented every moment he sat behind a building miles away from the front while his men fought and bled out in the streets. It now weighed upon him the grim possibility of the failure of his gambit. Craig straightened, “At ease. What is it son?” The young man relaxed, “Colonel.” he repeated, “Our forces have taken the field at the corner of 38th and Giles. The enemy has been put to rout.” Beside Craig, his staff uttered their polite approvals and congratulations, having come together to form the victorious strategy. Craig on the other hand could be put to relief so easily, nodding. “Excellent, trooper. Casualty report?” The trooper shifted nervously, and hesitated a moment. “Sir, we estimate the enemy has sustained approximately 300 KIA.” Craig sighed, having to goad the information out of the young private. “And our own?” “55 men left standing, sir.” Craig quietly grumbled his discontent, uttering a quiet prayer for his fallen. “I see, thank you, private. Go on ahead and get yourself a hot meal and rest up. Our work here isn’t done.” “Yes sir, thank you, sir.” the private saluted once more, pivoting on a dime and hurriedly making his way out of the command and control center. Craig turned back to his advisors- civilian and military, and placed a thumbtack on the map of Douglas where the battle had been fought. Back in his element, he shoved the horrors of war to the back of his mind, focused on the objective at hand, “We’ll have to make due. Have our troops move in on the south. Let’s end this.” MOD ACTIONS Rock Island begins its own PR and recruitment campaign, issuing a short-wave radio transmission to the local area. They declare Islander territory as a safe haven among the wastes, tell of their string of recent victories, and offer fair pay and provisions to any who enlist. FINANCIAL ACTIONS [7,500 C] Constructing Construction Yard in N. Douglas. [5,000 C, 1B] Constructing Markets in N. Douglas. [8M] Constructing 2 T3 Body Armor [1,750 C] Training 5 Men to Regular [4R+4R/15R] Continuing Research into Heavy Weapons.

Département des Territoires d'Epsilon Indi The mother country’s generous shipment is put to immediate use. Nouveau Bordeaux continues to improve its infrastructure. This year efforts are placed upon supporting small-scale businesses. At last, small-time owners can do what they love most without worrying, for now, about competition from Earth’s megacorporations. President Bonnevay authorizes the construction of a research facility on the remote sister colony of Regina. Next year, they hope to have properly equipped the complex and the science teams there to begin working on a proper long-range FTL Drive. All seems well. [8M, 20,000C] Constructing Research Facility on Nouveau Bordeaux [8M, 16, 000C] Constructing 4 Civilian Districts on Nouveau Bordeaux [8,000C] Constructing 4 Construction Yards on Nouveau Bordeaux 7M

ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL Rock Islander Infantry advancing into the southern suburbs of Chicago; c. 2270. 1st Sergeant Michael L. Cohen strode the length of the Rock Islander Provisionary Headquarters. He was thinking of any way to pass the time. Afterall, his comrades had been sent out to battle earlier this morning. To his dismay, he was not counted among their ranks. Cohen was eager to do some real battle today, but the Colonel had sidelined him, deeming his skills too valuable and not worth risking on the frontlines. Cohen scoffed at that thought, thinking, how much of a threat could these police officers even pose? Little did Cohen know, the fighting to the south of Douglas was exceedingly brutal, men pulverizing each other with whatever weapons they could scrounge. Perhaps this temporary relegation was a blessing in disguise. Cohen walked through the tight, disheveled and run-down corridors, passing all manners of familiar faces that braved the journey to Chicago with him. He offered a passing smile and an occasional hello, but they weren’t what he came for. 1SG Cohen heard muffled conversation through the door upon ahead, growing more distinct as he drew near. He slowed to a halt, the door wide open. Naturally he peered in, seeing a young, slender woman attending to a host of patients laid out on makeshift cots. She leaned over a patient sitting upright, a syringe of Rad-X in her hands. “This is for you radiation, I’m gonna count to three.” and she did, injecting the contents of the needle into the man’s arm. The man cursed, grimacing, “****, I hate needles.” “Well, you better think about that next time you drink from a polluted well.” She chuckled, setting the syringe down on a tray beside her. “You better get going.” she smiled, turning to lead the man out of the med-bay. “Yeah, thanks Doc.” The man brushed by Cohen, just as the woman took notice of his presence. Cohen clung to the side of the doorframe, practically inviting himself in. “Got a moment, Doc Hanlon?” “‘Course, my doors are always open, as you’ve seem to have found out.” Doctor Margaret Hanlon smoothened out her smock. “Say, why aren’t you with the rest of the troopers? Are you wounded?” “Nah, nothing like that, Doc. Colonel kept me back for this assignment.” “I’m sorry, can’t imagine how that feels.” “Nah, it’s alright. It’s given me plenty of time to get the electricity and water purification up and running. Rock Island should be fully self-sufficient in the coming months.” “Very nice.” she nodded, pursing her lips. It was a clear something had been bothering her, “Not even settled in and Colonel Craig is waging war in Chicago, huh?” Cohen blinked, “He’s a good man, Margaret. He puts the needs of his people foremost.” “His people don’t need a war on their doorstep, Mike. They need security, sustainable resources, a place to raise their families.” she shook her head, mulling over the idea. Cohen clicked his tongue, “Can’t have any of those things with crazed wasters to our south. Freedom ain’t free, Doc.” Income: 19,000 (15,000 Base., 4,000 Pop) M: 3 (2 Base, 1 Scrap Yard) S: 5 (5 Base) R: 4 (2 Base, 2 Pop) Upkeep: -2,000 C from Facilities - 4S from Population HQ Block: 1 Fuel Refinery - 2F 2 Scrap Yards - 2M Expenses/Research: [4R/15R] Research and Development begins on T1 Heavy Firearms, headed by 1SG Michael Cohen (2 Intelligence, 1.5 Charisma, 1.5 Perception, 1.5 Luck) [17,000C] Training 68 men to Regular [2M] Constructing T1 Firearms [2M] Constructing T1 Firearms 1 Dev Point is spent on Strength in Numbers 1S to storage

ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL Faction Name: Rock Island Arsenal – 7th Midwest Infantry Regiment; Chicago Expedition Civilization Type: Civilized Starting Points: 8 – Research (T3 Power Armor, T3 Firearms, T3 Armor) 2 – Production (T3 Power Armor, T3 Firearms) Faction Backstory: The Rock River Company is descended from U.S. military personnel stationed at Rock Island Arsenal Military Base before the Great War. When the bombs fell, all key personnel and accompanying garrison were evacuated to the nearby Vault 62, much to the dismay of most of the local inhabitants of Moline, Illinois. The Vault was largely reserved for engineering and R&D personnel, as Rock Island was home to one of America’s most prominent armored vehicle manufacturers, and were thus granted the benefit of self-preservation by Vault-Tec. With the exception of the military staff, only a handful of civilians were permitted entrance, chosen because of their pre-War professions- which would be useful to the Vault 62 survivors in the years to come. By year 47 of lockup, the Rock Island Arsenal staff had just about exhausted their pool of resources and were forced to open up to the greater world. All this time, they prepared themselves for the inevitable day. With much anticipation, they were forced to open the dreaded Vault that had sealed them and their kids away for half of a century. What they say- the devastation- had shocked them, but they relent. Year by year, they reclaimed the City of Moline from the Wasteland. Though progress was slow and grueling, the Vault 62 inhabitants eventually carved themselves a democratic safe haven on the Mississippi, built upon ideals and traditions of their forefathers. By the year 2270, the settlement at Moline had grown to remarkable heights, with a thriving civilization at the heart with a solid perimeter protecting it. It was in this year that the settlement began to realize their ambitions- the big City- Chicago, was within reach. The Moline commissioners appointed a task force under the command of Colonel Robert Vernon Craig to investigate and establish an outpost. The Colonel readily obliged, eager to prove his worth and take back the Wasteland. As their primary means, the task force followed Interstate 88 eastwards until they reached Chicago. Their journey proceeded mostly without a hitch, but as they entered the city limits, they felt the weight of prying eyes behind every window and corner. A large host could hardly go unnoticed, some one thousand personnel in attendance and a ripe target for raiders, thus, they dug in, claiming but a little patch of Chicagoan soil for themselves. The mission is an odd conglomeration of both military and civilian personnel, thus multiple factions vy for influence in the expedition. There is no democratic nature to the group, with Colonel Robert Craig as the absolute authority in all matters. Their hierarchy and chain of command is modeled after the pre-War U.S. Army, thus, a similar degree of discipline and professionalism can be expected. To Craig’s dismay, only a handful of men had ever held a firearm before. Much work would be needed to transform this motley band into a capable fighting force. Characters (Minimum 1) COLONEL ROBERT V. CRAIG Colonel Robert Vernon Craig is the senior most officer on Rock Island’s Chicago expedition. Though his contingent is largely civilian, only a man of Craig’s charisma and resolve can hope to turn the rowdy bunch into a professional fighting force. However, he is a compassionate man, aiming to never put the lives of his men on the line in a situation he himself would not see himself in. Though grounded in reality, Craig is a firm believer in the chain of command and would not hesitate to crush dissent in the snap of a finger. FIRST SERGEANT MICHAEL L. COHEN 1SG Michael Leroy Cohen is Rock Island’s senior engineering advisor. He and a handful of others comprise the Rock Island Company’s group of combat engineers. He is savvy in all matters explosive and improvised, and has been known to improvise all manners of odd contraptions. Due to his expertise and utilitarian approach, he was able to greatly increase the standard of living back at Rock Island and is thus a key asset to this mission. Cohen would see his comrades living in paradise at the expense of outsiders. He keeps to a small circle, believing few can be trusted. CHIEF PHYSICIAN MARGARET C. HANLON Although Doctor Margaret Hanlon operates outside of the military command hierarchy, she is often relied upon as a unique insight, with her advice highly cherished. She is renowned for having performed ‘God’s work’, having brought several men back to health from states thought irrecoverable. Due to her having treated nearly everyone at one point, Hanlon and her medical staff hold quite a degree of sway in the mission. Margaret is a firm adherent to care-based ethics and would rather see co-existence with fellow wastelands as opposed to suppression under the military’s boot. LIEUTENANT G.W. STILWELL Lieutenant George Washington Stilwell is a career soldier through thick and thin, enlisting as soon as he was able. His battlefield lethality and leadership have allowed him to soar through the enlisted ranks and attain the rank of lieutenant. Stilwell was a natural candidate for the Chicago mission where he now serves as commander of the Heavy Armor platoon. Stilwell is heralded among the troops for being decisive in battle and leading from the front, to the point of near recklessness. Stilwell would adhere to any means necessary to achieve victory. Discord: tonk

Département des Territoires d'Epsilon Indi The French settlers of Nouveau Bordeaux eased into their new home easily. Remarkable progress was made over the course of the year with residential sprawls and infrastructure taking route. Luckily, they had the benefit of the hundreds of years of technological and innovative expertise of their forefathers to aid them. With the blessing of their mother country, the first elections were held. The votes were tallied in the newfound General Assembly building which shall serve future generations as the home of the legislative branch of the Nouveau Bordeaux government. A number of prominent colonists are appointed to crucial cabinet positions. Notably, Joseph-Francois Bonnevay is appointed to the Colonial Presidency, with a tenure of 5 years to his term. Expeditionary Captain Emmanuel Touchon of the now deconstructed FR *Jacques Cartier* is appointed Minister of the Armed Forces by Bonnevay. As his first act, Touchon raises a battalion of infantry to protect Nouveau Bordeaux’s interests throughout the void. The Nouveau Bordeaux people are optimistic, with projections suggesting growth will surpass the already established U.N. colonies within Sol within a matter of years. Nouveau Bordeaux permits the ESA to conduct their survey of the Gaia world, albeit under supervision of the colonial government. [4,000 C, 2S] Laying the groundwork for a Colonial Defense Force, a company of infantry is recruited. [5,000C, 5M] As requested, the Colony of Nouveau Bordeaux constructs an embassy to strengthen ties with the mother-nation. [8,000C, 4M] Constructing 2 Civilian Factories to accommodate the needs of the people. [20,000C] Constructing Extractor on Nouveau Bordeaux 820, 3M

Département des Territoires d'Epsilon Indi The surface of Nouveau Bordeaux, as seen from the FS Jacques Cartier; c. 2090. The chemical thrusters of the FS Jacques Cartier burned brightly, propelling the colony ship steadily through the black Void. Their sister ship had split off, some hours ago- their mission to establish an outpost on the other end of the system. The Jacques Cartier, however, carried nearly 15,000 souls aboard, and whose hull would be deconstructed and used for the capital effort. “Capitaine. Live feed for Epsilon Indi Ia is coming through, patching us in now.” The transmission from the drone feeds fed right into the ship’s command and control terminal. The advanced imagery systems not only produced high definition video footage in real time, but various detailed overlays, with their deep-penetration surveillance sensors. It was for all to see; their destination, their new home, broadcasted across every monitor of the ship. Simultaneously a feeling of breathlessness swept across the ship. Not because they were low on O2 and slowly asphyxiating or anything- but because they were taken back by the majesty that graced their eyes. A Gaia world- more than suitable to all forms of higher life. Crew chiefs, technicians, and civilians alike wept, for this planet served as a reminder of the great leaps undertaken by mankind. It would be another great chapter whose pages yearned to be detailed. Some may say that this discovery was the culmination of all their efforts, but the work was merely just beginning. Back on the bridge, various analysts and techs alike attempted to make sense of their readings. “Atmospheric makeup: 78% Nitrogen, 28% Oxygen. Trace elements of…” “Average surface of 14 degress Celsisus.” “Deep-scan suggest planet is tectonically active, sir.” “...Entering gravity well. Initiate Stage 1 Deceleration.” For the first time in weeks, Captain Emmanuel Touchon smiled, relishing in the moment. All he had wanted ever was to serve his country. Never would he have guessed to have been bestowed the greatest honor in perhaps the history of mankind. On that surface, there was bounty, security, and prosperity. Not only that, but down there was their future. ACTIONS: 46,000 C, 10 M -2,000 extractor upkeep [8,000 C, 4M] Constructing 2 Military Factories [4,000 C, 2M] Constructing Barracks [4,000 C, 2M] Constructing Shipyard [16,000 C] Constructing 8 Construction Yards on Nouveau Bordeaux 12,000 C saved [MOD] Nouveau Bordeaux relays a message back to France. Colony founded. Ready for tasking.

Discord: --- Name (colony): Nouveau Bordeaux Archetype (choose one): National Colonization Mission (NCM) Mother Nation: French Republic Sponsoring Space Agency (you may choose one): European Space Agency Colonial Leadership: Democratic Mission classification: Expansion Add. starting equipment: 6,000 Additional Colonists 20,000 C 10 M Background: The unabated exploitation of Earth’s resources and neo-colonialism of the 21st Century left Earth largely battered and depleted. With the discovery of the Gandhi Device, France knew that it too must make an effort to colonize the stars, lest it be forgotten and resigned to our ancient homeworld The planned mission to the outlying stars was jam-packed with French pioneers, eager to establish for themselves a new life abroad - of course, carrying with them the tradition of French Democracy!

Character Application Name: Alexandra Doheny Age: 19 Gender: Female Description: Alexandra Doheny stands just above the average, at about 5’7. She has straight, dirty blonde hair, hazel eyes and a slightly rounder face. She carries a personable demeanor and outwardly appears quite approachable. Her attire reflects her bubbly personality as when the weather permits, Ally would use any excuse to throw on her Boho-chic wardrobe. Otherwise, she quite comfortably sports her pullovers and baggy clothes when the fall rolls in. Backstory: Alexandra Doheny, or Ally, was born on February 2, 1999 in the affluent town of Darien, Connecticut. She is the daughter of lawyer, Robert Doheny, and occupational therapist and Board of Ed member, Stephanie Doheny. Her upbringing was financially stable and secure, having spent the majority of her life living in a 5,000 sqft. home with her mother, father, younger sister (Morgan), and brother (Adam). Simply put, Ally was the favored child of the Doheny bunch, afterall having been the first one born. Due to the nature of her mother serving on the Board of Ed, she was pressured to succeed academically - pestered and meticulously scrutinized, perhaps even to a fault. However, her mother only wanted the best for her, recognizing her talent at a young age and seeking to cultivate. Looking back, Ally would not trade her mother’s harsh attitude and breathing-down-her-neck behavior for anything as it propelled her to become the best person she could be. Throughout all four years of highschool, she maintained a position in the Honor Society, all the while being a tri-athlete - participating in soccer (Wing), basketball (Power Forward), and track and field (Running) - to the approval of her father, who was close friends with the school coach and Darien alum, and thus had his own stake in her games. Overall, she was a beloved peer and distinguished herself academically and athletically. In the Summer, she made her keep through work at a local pizza parlor, where she made a tidy sum and familiarized herself with all the local faces at the most popular eatery in town. Ally padded out her extracurriculars with occasional volunteer work at a nursing center, performing mundane tasks such as serving treats, wheeling around residents, and keeping them company in general - something which she had a soft spot for. She’d had a number of relationships over the years, but would be able to hold down none, seemingly driving them away the closer they got. In the end, boys became the least of her problems, as she sought to prepare for college and strengthen bonds with her friends - after all, she was soon leaving, and wanted to make every moment count. Be it either her editing skills, or her charm, she amassed a respectable social media presence and scored a legitimate offer as a brand ambassador for an apparel company, which to her benefit, curbed her habits of spending sprees. Alexandra was accepted into Columbia University, where she currently resides and pursues a higher education. She is optimistic for the future, having left home with a heavy heart, though somewhat relieved to enjoy newfound freedom. New York, a far cry from her suburban home in Darien, was now the next chapter of her life. Currently studying Biochem. OOC Discord: Yo

MANDATE OF VENNENDAL “We are lost.” Admiral Hinrichs muttered, walking the length of his flag’s bridge, flicking off a data pad and handing it off to an attendant. “Admiral, we are right on course.” chimed the navigational officer, taking a moment to peer over his computer interface. “Not quite what I am referring to, son.” The Admiral strode towards the nav officer, who sat below the main observation gangway in an ops-pit, where all the technical staff and lower bridge officers toiled or oversaw their subordinates. The nav officer looked up, diminutive in comparison to the already tall and proud Admiral, clad in his pristine white service uniform. “Sir?” the nav officer looked up, to which a lieutenant standing behind him raised a brow in inquiry. “I’ll tell you.” the Admiral declared, though knew not how to express the feelings welling within him, “We have lost sight of what it means to be human – of what the Empire has stood for. It appears our Loyalist counterparts have allied themselves with the xenos. Yes, the fool Ran-ji, ever so desperate to cling on to his throne, has accepted the Irik into his ranks - in complete disregard for the human blood shed over the millennia to secure a galaxy of peace and stability for mankind. Henceforth, he has been declared an enemy of humanity and shall be subject to the punishment which it entails. I know it must pain you to hear this, as even my former colleagues, are now complicit in this treason. That is all.” the Admiral said, as the bridge staff around him grew ever conflicted in response. The Admiral swiped a hand and summoned a command chair, which mechanically rose from the floor. “We stand at the crux of a new era, gentlemen. Our forefathers watch over us with keen interest.” [20,000C, 4M, 23, 4NP] Constructing 2 Poltergeists [30,000C, 8M, 8NP] Constructing 4 Destroyers [40,000C, 8B] Constructing 4 Shipyards in Backbrugge [5,000C, 1B] Constructing Luxury Industry in Almerk 13,500

MANDATE OF VENNENDAL More war stuff! [20,000C, 4B] Constructing 4 Luxury Industry on Rouven [25,000C] Hiring Admiral [12,500C,5M, 5NP] Constructing 5 Freighters [45,000, 12M, 12NP] Constructing 3 Heavy Cruisers [10,000C, 2B] Constructing Shipyards in Backbrugge Shipping 6 Luxury Goods to Outer Rim (S) [-500] Shipping 3E to Rob with 3 Freighters, 1 Hired [-3,000] Importing 6B from Rob

MANDATE OF VENNENDAL As anticipated, the Empire would fall apart at the seams. With corruption rampant and the Senate’s power gradually eroded, it wouldn’t be long until someone merely pulled the trigger. With the amount of talented individuals on each side, it is a wonder how the Empire ever fell so deeply from grace. Nevertheless, Vennendal had prepared itself for the good part of the past decade. It was now time for them to prove themselves among the galactic stage. Vennendal had thrown its lot in with the Republicans – now it had to make good on its deal. -15% from piracy +20,000 from Rob +192,500 from Stimulus (+6B, 4E, 30M) -15,000C, 3M, 1F, 1P from Tax Shipping 2 E to Rob with 2 Freighters [10,000+2B] Constructing 2 Heavy Industry in Nassam [10,000+1B] Constructing Imperial Embassy on Voorst [25,000+5B] Constructing 5 Luxury Industry on Exell [5,000+1B] Constructing 1 Luxury Industry on Rouven [10,000+2B] Constructing 1 Shipyards on Backbrugge [40,000C+8M+4E+8NP] Constructing 4 Poltergeist Destroyers [7,500C+2M+2NP] Constructing 1 Destroyers [15,000C+6M+6NP] Constructing 6 Freighters [15,000C+4M+4NP] Constructing 1 Heavy Cruiser [140,000C+14M+6E+6HP] Constructing Titan 10,813

MANDATE OF VENNENDAL “...The tides have turned against the Party.” “That much is evident.” “As it stands, the East is a Republican stronghold. We’d do well not to anger our counterparts.” “Hm. And U’ilaani is our key to the Core.” “You know as well as I. We should tread lightly. The galaxy is on the brink.” “Then let us focus our efforts. Double down on sector security and prepare for deep siege. On all fronts.” “I understand, Lord.” “That’ll be all, governors. May God help us all.” The coming years, an agenda set by the planetary governors of Vennendal, would be defined by internal focus, looking to compensate for Vennendal’s economic mediocrity with a strong Navy and near-Autarky. The Mandate vowed that Vennendal shall never be held hostage by the whims of the Galactic merchants nor their neighbors. Though the metaphorical walls had yet to be erected, there was no harm in thinking toward the future. [1,500C] Buying 5M from ERTC [32,000C] Payment to Brandon [50,000C+10B] Constructing 5 Shipyards on Backbrugge [5,000c+1B] Constructing Warehouse on Almerk [5,000C+2M+2NP] Constructing 2 Freighters [25,000C] Recruiting Admiral [IMPERIAL DIPLOMACY?] Senator Aalmers, under the direction of Stellarch Elfering, attempts to acquire either the know-how or an actual version of the Imperial Navy’s newest Heavy Cruisers to bolster Vennendal’s own SDF. He uses his contacts among the Senate to see what can be done, citing dire need of modern and efficient warships. (3 Imperial Influence)

MANDATE OF VENNENDAL Senator Aalmers was bound home. After what the man had witnessed on the Senate floor, he found it prudent to return home and bring word in person to his stellarch, Lord Gerrit Elfering. As he peered through his diplomatic corvette’s porthole, ceaselessly gazing into the unknown, he couldn’t help but wonder had not yet fallen apart. The Emperor openly defiled the Assembly, no secret about it. Fortunately, Aalmers represented the interests of Vennendal in the Senate, whose Stellarch was a firm loyalist - and it was not him brought to his knees through sheer psykic might. At last, his corvette completed it’s last hyperjump. As the light of a million stars flashed from view, he blinked, finding his corvette traveling at nominal subspace velocity. The ship intercom flickered to life, with a relaxed though sultry voice declaring throughout the corvette, “This is your captain speaking. It is now 6:50 Voorst time. As I speak, we are now piercing Kysar-1’s Oort Cloud. If you’d have a look out your starboard windows, you may catch a glimpse of the Comet Sterre on its far pass…” How oddly civilian, Aalmers thought. Surely this was but a jest on part of the captain. Afterall, his corvette was armed to the brim - guns and torpedoes all - doubtless a military vessel. Regardless, Aalmers peered through the glass. As the captain had said, there indeed was the comet, ejecting a steady icy-blue twin-forked tail in its wake. Magnificent. However, the ship didn’t stop for sightseeing. They pressed forward, and the comet gradually degraded from view, and the star of Voorst became ever more luminous as they drew toward the center of the system. Disappointed, Aalmers heaved a sigh. For it was not his life to indulge in luxuries such as star-gazing, no. The Senator knew better, now taking the time to prepare his report to Lord Elfering, alongside a new naval bill that would see Vennendal rise to a naval powerhouse in the Eastern reaches – hopefully. [20,000C+4B] Constructing 2 Shipyards on Backbrugge [45,000C+12M+12NP] Beginning Construction of 3 Heavy Cruisers [4,000C] Hiring 8 Freighter to ship 8B to Vennendal from New Vara [37,500C] Hiring Kohatu to construct 3 Destroyers 2,250

MANDATE OF VENNENDAL Aboard the lower decks of a Vennendalic destroyer, a motley crew of junior sailors sat together, enjoying one of few pleasantries they possessed aboard the ship. “Take this for instance, if I ever got my hands on an Irik, listen, it’d be lights out for them.” a voice said from among the sofa of the ship’s lounges, Seamen Berend Engert, who set down what appeared to be a wine-filled glass, neatly upon the hardened and hull-bolted coffee tabletop. “I’m sure that’s what you and the five knuckleheads before you thought before getting their heads ripped off.” replied another sailor, Frank Grader, casually sipping from his own glass. “Listen, they got four arms. That’s a 2 to 1 advantage. They got you in that department.” said a third, a Naomi Dries. “You know where they don’t stack up?” Engert said crudely, making an obscene gesture to his crotch, beneath his navy blue service dress uniform trousers. “All right, time for me to go.” Naomi said, drawing air through her teeth, and rising to her feet. “Okay, and that is the last time I smuggle drinks onboard for you.” said PO3 Claes Godert, senior amongst the group in rank. “Come on, that was nothing. Harmless.” Engert said. “Just leave it. Think we’re on the clock anyways, we’ve got watch shift port side, sectors 13-15.” Godert shook his head. “Great. Time to stare out at space all day. Nothing.” Engert replied, clicking his tongue, and with a hint of distaste. “Pipe down, seaman. Be grateful for what you have. Use it as time to reflect.” the petty officer retorted. “Yeah, at least you’re getting paid to do nothing. Think about the work queues back on Voorst. People would kill to be where you are.” Grader chimed in. “You know what.” said Engbert, “I prefer not to think about that. I’ll keep living in my world, free from all the troubles, and you do what you do.” “Have it your way man. Just know the Navy can toss out any one of us whenever they want and acquire an equally capable replacement. I suggest your sort yourself out - whatever you got going on.” said Godert, with a hint of finality to his tone. “I’ll sort myself out whenever the Pirate King is caught.” Engbert had already turned, already headed off to his duty post, though sure to flip the bird amidst his departure. So never. [55,000C+6M+3E+6HP] Beginning Battlecruiser construction [15,000C+3B] Constructing 3 Heavy Industry on Nassam [30,000C+4M+8NP] Constructing 4 Destroyers [15,500C+3M+4NP] Constructing Cruiser+Corvettes for Hary 7,500 t0 treasury