[Interest Check] The Final Frontier

[Haresus]

​

Welcome to my first attempt at creating a forum game. After a few years of participating in them, I have gathered the courage to actually create one that will be inspired by the late Fry's World in Revolution series, Stormbringer's Rise and Fall of Civilisation and Paradox's not-yet-released 4X game, Stellaris. Feel free to express your interest or post your sign-ups here, and hopefully I'll start this shortly.

Without further ado, I'll just let the introduction start:

Setting:

On a lone planet orbiting a yellow star in another (far, far away) galaxy, it is the year 2016. Its dominant species has not yet landed on another planet. But your species is different from these Earthlings. You have the potential, the will and the resources to reach other planets and expand not only within the limits of your own planet and star system, but also in the galaxy and space as a whole. You do not know what awaits you in the far reaches of space or what you can accomplish with the resources at your disposal. But with the Final Frontier within your grasp, you will soon find out.

Your civilisation has just breached the secret to Faster-Than-Light travel. This technology is still in its very early stages and your technology is too primitive to travel much faster than light speed. Travel between close stars takes years, but travel within your own system is now a matter of minutes for your fastest ships. Researchers are optimistic that given more time the potential of your FTL drives will be fully unlocked.
Except for that, what exists on your planet is up to you:
Is your species united under a single tyrannical leader who is maniacally obsessed with conquering the stars? Perhaps several species live together in a loose Confederation of democratic nations, and private interests manage the great leaps forward in space in your civilisation? Maybe two superpowers with competing ideologies on your planet are locked in a cold war and attempt to outdo each other by racing towards space?

Rules:

These are but a few examples, and your imagination may run wild with your own ideas. However, all sign ups will have to be approved by me in order to avoid absolute chaos. I will tell you what changes are necessary if your sign up is not immediately accepted. As a few guidelines, I will want to keep this forum game within the realms of plausibility. Magic is not acceptable, religion will not have any physical effect on the galaxy, try to keep your civilisation's technological level at a sensible level (teleportation is a bit too advanced for a species that has only just come up with a working FTL drive).

Spoiler: Sign up sheet

Civilisation name:
Star system description (Brief description of your star(s) and the planets surrounding it):
Home Planet name:
Home Planet description (Lengthy description of your home planet):
Species name(s):
Species biology (Lengthy description of your species):
Culture (Short description of important cultural/religious facets):
History (Major historical events):
Government (How is your civilisation led?):
Military (Brief description of your military capacity):
Economy (Brief description of your economic system):

Spoiler: Sign up example

Civilisation name: United Nations (of Earth)
Star system description: Going from the star and outwards: Mercury (small terrestrial planet with no atmosphere), Venus (small terrestrial planet with carbon dioxide atmosphere), Earth, Mars (medium terrestrial planet with carbon dioxide atmosphere), asteroid belt, Jupiter (gas giant), Saturn (gas giant), Uranus (ice giant), Neptune (ice giant). One moon around Earth, many tiny moons around the gas and ice giants, two moons around Mars. These all orbit a single G2V star called "the Sun".

Home Planet name: Earth
Home Planet description: Terrestrial planet with an active Hydrosphere, oxygen-nitrogen atmosphere and a wide variety of areas ranging from arid to tropical. Due to the axial tilt of the planet's rotation, the climate has seasons. Temperature ranges from below the freezing point of water to the middle of the liquid spectrum, with an average of 15°C but with normal seasonal variations of about -+30°C. 71% of the planet's surface is covered by water. Large sections of the temperate land regions are covered by agriculture.

Species name: Humans (Homo sapiens).
Species biology: Bipedal, two-armed upright carbon-based animals that are on average 1.70 metres tall. Omnivores. Advanced brain but relatively (to other animals on Earth) weak body. Use tools and superior numbers to make up for their individual physical weaknesses. Naturally curious and normally entertain close social connections with their family, relatives and friends. Many different and varied personalities. Lives for an average of about 80 years, but starts to significantly degrade, physically and sometimes mentally, after about half their lifespan. Enters adulthood in the late teens, early twenties.

Culture: Divided into numerous different societies with different languages, habits and religions. The main languages are Mandarin Chinese, English, Spanish and Arabic. The main religions are the Abrahamic ones (Christianity, Islam and Judaism), based on a single omnipotent, omniscient and benevolent God who rewards true believers and punishes the rest, and Hinduism, based on the existence of many different gods and the recycling of souls who have not reached nirvana (a state of perfect unity with all existence), although there are many more local religions and a large number of humans are also non-religious.

History: Evolving through over one hundred thousand years, the humans and their ancestors were hunter-gatherers who wandered over most the planet in groups. About 8,000 years ago an Agricultural Revolution started and the humans started domesticating animals (Cows and sheep) and tending crops. Large hierarchical societies are formed around cities in fertile regions, with metalwork and writing appearing over the next 4,000 years. Wars are fought over control of resources, land and people between rival societies, with Kings (sometimes claiming to be gods) ruling with absolute power.

A mere 200 years ago, the Industrial Revolution started in the European region of Earth. This gradually replaced the previous hand-based production with production based on machinery and factories driven by steam and hydro power. This freed up labour, sparked a massive boost in population growth and created unparalleled scientific progress that would lead to the start of the current atomic age (With the development of the devastating atomic bomb) and the space race to the Moon and beyond between competing superpowers (one that is in favour of free-market capitalism and another that is in favour of state-owned socialism) that would lead to the current leap into space.

Government: The planet is divided between about 200 different countries of varying size and power. Their systems of government vary from representative democracy to totalitarian dictatorships, with some form of more or less legitimate democracy being the most common system of governing the countries due to a recent democratisation trend. Due to massive, global armed conflicts with cripplingly high casualties the countries created the United Nations, an intragovernmental organisation without any actual powers except for advisory ones, in an attempt to prevent wars between countries on Earth. Smaller, local wars still happen regularly but there has not been any major global conflict for the last 70 years which potentially speaks for the success this organisation has had at replacing war and conflict with dialogue and cooperation.

Military: Nuclear weapons are the most destructive weapons on the planet and the most powerful nations have thousands of warheads stored as a deterrent to those who might try to attack them. These weapons are rarely used, as it is feared that it might spark a global thermonuclear war that would annihilate the human civilisation if one is used carelessly.

Each country also has its own "conventional" military force consisting of infantry and manned land/sea/air vehicles to defend itself and its interests. Volunteer soldiers exist, but in large conflicts conscription of males is normal. Any violent conflicts are usually resolved mainly through the use of these conventional forces. Humans use firearms of various calibres for their wars. The firearm was first invented about 800 years ago and has been developed and perfected since then into its current deadly shape.

Economy: The economical system differs in the countries, but is normally based around a competitive capitalist free-market system with some government intervention and regulation. Education, health care, pensions, infrastructure and defence are handled by the government (paid for by taxes) with some private involvement. Other countries have tried to nationalise and control all aspects of the economy in the country through various means, but this has rarely seen long-term success for the humans.

Players will PM 2 orders, plus war orders if at war, to me every turn on the Paradox forums before the deadline. Every turn will last a period of 10 "galactic years", which will be deceptively similar to ordinary Earth years in length and function. Your orders can cover anything you want inside your civilisation: Technology, politics, diplomacy, economics, culture and society. Do not feel limited to simply playing a government. I will pull a number that will decide how your order goes and then write this result into the weekly update where I will cover all major events in your quadrant of the galaxy.

You are allowed to combine multiple orders for the same purpose, perhaps preparing a larger and riskier reform over a longer time in order to minimise the possibility of failure. Your orders will stack up and when you feel ready to activate them you will inform me, I will pull as many numbers as you have spent orders. The highest number pulled will be the result.

IC posts that describe your civilisation and what is going on in your sector of space are always highly appreciated and encouraged in order to keep the game alive and active.

Stats:

Stats will be simplified from what is common in Earth-bound nation games such as WiR. I will not try to compare the GDPs of different galactic empires, or how much money you have in your "treasury". I will keep an eye on your technological progress, your overall political unity, if your economy is going well or not, your population growth, military strength and a few other factors that I consider important. If you want specific numbers on a specific subject you are free to ask me or try to deduce a plausible answer yourself.

Example:

Spoiler: United Nations (of Earth)

Political Unity (Very Low/Low/Medium/High/Very High): Low
Population growth: High.
Economy (Collapsing/Shrinking/Stagnating/Growing/Booming): Growing.
Military: Massive nuclear arsenal.
Research: Basic FTL drives (1.1C), advanced computers, fission energy.
Notes: Climate change, risk of depleting important resources, large economic gaps, war in poor countries, overpopulation.

IRC:

For more direct communication with me or other players, IRC is a useful tool. I am usually online pretty often and you can ask me anything about the game.

Link: http://www.coldfront.net/
Channel: #WiR_Main
Instructions:
1) Use the link provided above.
2) Choose the Flash app or the Java app.
3) Create a screen name; it’s recommended that you use your forum name, if available.
4) Close the #coldfront channel that opens automatically.
5) In the command box, type “/join #WiR_Main” without the quotation marks.
6) You’re in the chat! Welcome!

 

[AzagalTheGreat]

Civilisation name: The Duacar Empire

Star system description : The Star system of Bhastar has an average size star in it known as Bretna, which is still quite young. Around it are 5 planets, of which two are gas giants. The closest to the sun is the planet known as Vuolea, a planet twice the size of earth, and one of two habitable worlds in the system. This is an almost unique example of two worlds in the same system spawning living entities. However, even though inhabited by living beings, it has failed to evolve sentient live according to early Duacar scans. Datlof is the jewel of the system, a planet even bigger then Vuolea, being about 4 times the size of earth. It is the home world of the Duacar and many other non sentient species, with a lot of varied biomes and climates. It has 3 relatively large moons that are still being terraformed into livable dwellings. Last of the stony planets is Qleap, a small planet the size of Mars. It has been the interest of scientists for many years, for while it may be uninhabitable (it is a frozen planet) there have been reported traces of an ancient alien civilization long gone on the frozen wasteland. The Gas giants Feonsis and Clothea are not of particular interest, aside from Clothea which has up to a hundred small moons and one big one.
Home Planet name: Datlof

Home Planet description : The Jewel of the Bashtar System, Datlof is a very big planet filled with diverse biomes and wildlife. From an arid biome the species called the Duacar evolved. The planet is still quite underdeveloped, as the sentient species of the planet respect nature and prefer to keep it. Apart from some big cities spread around the continents and a few urban areas the planet is surprisingly uninhabited and it is quite easy to get lost. A total of 5 billion Duacar live on Datlof.
Species name(s): Duacar

Species biology : Evolving from a mammalian hunter not unlike the earth lion, the Duacar are efficient hunters and omnivores . When prey became scarce, the intelligent ancestor species of the Duacar slowly evolved a brain to better their hunting method. They eventually developed tools to use and evolved a body capable of both walking bipedal and on all 4 legs. From there the species slowly developed agriculture about 12.000 years ago and has been slowly advancing ever since. A Duacar is a fast developing creature, and will mature in about 3 years. In recent years due to genetic enhancement Duacar life has been extended from a standard 50 to close to 120 years, with genetic defects and deadly diseases mostly eradicated or vaccinated against. A Duacar is a worthy opponent in battle due to its physical build.
Culture : The Duacar are an independent minded species with a great intellect and body strength. It is not strange to see Duacar going into the wilderness and living there for a few years after reaching maturity. They used to live in clans, but since the forming of nations and cities this has mattered less and less. However, it is still customary to reference your clan in most administration as it carries power and respect. Most Duacar believe in an entity called the ''Creator, or ''The giver'' who created this world for them to live and thrive on. In earlier times this was a religion, but it has since then evolved in more of a basic principle of Duacar society. Female Duacar historically had a dominant role in Duacar society, but in more recent years gender equality has rose and now most positions are shared equally to the best of their abilities.

History : Since the dawn of agriculture 12.000 years ago the Duacar have been slowly developing into a modern entity. With agriculture came the end of clans as a political entity and the first cities. When a nomadic horde laid waste to those cities, it was seen as the end of civilization. But it was not. Combined with technology stolen from the horde and more recent developments a state was formed around the former city of Maro, which quickly expanded and incorporated a lot of the northern continent Perops. It is this state, 6,000 years ago, that would eventually become the basis of the modern Duacar empire. The first ruler of this state, Pharazon the Great, would eventually have descendants ruling over the whole planet. In 2000, all these small kingdoms and duchies and such would submit to the crown in Maro in return for local autonomy and protection. 16 years later, the first practical FTL drive would come onto the market, and such the space age of the Duacar started...

Government : The Duacar Empire is lead by the Emperor of Datlof and the Bashkar system, and descends from the founder of the first true state. An effective government rules over the vast planet with modern technology. The Empire is a bit democratic, and has a council of representatives of the Inhabited Areas elected by the common citizens of the Empire. This council of representatives acts as the defacto parliament, and handles most affairs of the Empire. The Emperor has had a relatively small role in government since 1900, when a revolution threatened the stability of the empire. The former princes of Datlof often have a lot of power in their respective local areas, and can thus have a big influence.

Military : The Duacar military is quite out of date, and flintlock like weaponry is still commonplace. However, their natural warlike build makes them excellent melee warriors makes the melee as decisive as the firing phase of a battle. Cannons have slowly progressed from this fase however, and a so called rapid fire cannon prototype has been developed.

Economy : the Duacar economy is a sort of capitalistic society with a heavy hint of socialism. Hoarding is frowned upon and sharing is the norm. The economy is very robust and stable.

 

[Mikkel Glahder]

Definately in!

 

[Emilersej]

I might sign up for this using that Elder-Scrolls-in-space civilization I created for one of alexander's games. Now, I have to know: Will there be a space map?

 

[Firehound15]

Not sure if I'm joining, but I've got some material for a potential civilization, in case anyone else wants to use it:

 

[Gorganslayer]

Definately in

*quietly shelves own sci-fi game*

 

[Watercress]

This is the perfect thing to satiate my Stellaris craving!

 

[Haresus]

I might sign up for this using that Elder-Scrolls-in-space civilization I created for one of alexander's games. Now, I have to know: Will there be a space map?

Most likely, yes. I will create a pretty big hex-based map of this sector in the galaxy. I will not post the entire thing publicly, instead I will post smaller pieces of the map in the areas that are populated by a player civilisation to give each player an idea of what he knows without revealing his position to the other players.

Still a WIP and undergoing experimentation, but here is an example of what the human civilisation might know if they lived in a different galaxy:

Still considering if every hex should be a star/something, or if there should be some empty spaces. How many stars (if any) should be under a fog of war is still to be decided.

 

[XxMantoxX]

I am In

 

[oxfordroyale]

Very interested.

 

[Tristanxh]

In.

 

[Draorn]

I am interested!

 

[Plank of Wood]

Interested.

 

[Arrowfiend]

Looks pretty cool. I'm interested.

 

[Noco19]

Civilisation name: The Nocoii Covenant
Star system description: Going from the star and outwards: Tast "the Vain Star" (small terrestrial planet with no atmosphere), Kolevci "His Cradle" (medium terrestrial planet with ammonia atmosphere), Vitog "The Windy" (massive gas giant), Trkac "The Runner" (medium terrestrial planet with a thick methane-ammonia atmosphere/orbits Vitog), asteroid belt, Suzs "The Teardrop" (ice giant). Three moons around Kolevci, tiny moons surround Suzs. These all orbit a single K0V star called Usi, "His Eye".

Home Planet name: Kolevci
Home Planet description: Terrestrial planet regulated by the Azanosphere, predominantly Ammonia-based atmosphere that is majority tropical and marshy. Seasonal shift is moderate, divided into three various stages, ranging from near-temperate climate, to tropical, to a third that stands in the middle. Despite this seemingly hot weather, the drastically lower boiling and melting points of ammonia are deceiving, with temperatures actually around -40 degrees Celsius. 79% of the planet's surface is considered liquid. Most of the landmass is a single massive continent spanning hemispheres, the rest being various coastal islands. Massive forests dominate planet's surface, though thinned by the development of infrastructure and urban center. In rural locales, agrarian activity can be seen through the presence of vast shrubberies and tree farms.

Species name: Nocoii (Officially: Those Who Art Shaped In the Image of Noco, Praised Be He)
Species biology: Slug-like, ammonia-based animals that are on average 1.25 meters tall when stood erect. Omnivore generalists. Advanced brains. Sets of specialized tentacles for the detection of scent, evolved set of flexible tentacles to manipulate tools on 'torso'. Extremely sociable to facilitate cooperation and conformity, evolved for survival against predators. Natural need for authority figures and heavy pack-mentality. Lives for an average of about 65 years, with general health until a rapid decline in their last decade as the body rapidly breaks down and fails to sustain itself with mucus. Death linked with drying-out. Can be artificially moistened for indefinite survival, however mental breakdown typically accompanies drying-out. Enters adulthood around the first decade. In terms of reproduction, all Nocoii are hermaphrodite, and are capable of laying eggs.

Culture: General core homogeneity, with regional quirks accenting the base culture. Language is conducted through a series of body language, tentacle movement, and verbal speech, representing a complex and expressive form of communication. Contact often plays a vital role in personal communication, generally with the use of tentacle-to-tentacle grasping. Religion serves as a paramount focus, the strongest strand between all Nocoii. Based around a complex theology centered around Noco, at once both a universal force and a historical entity credited with establishing a planetary culture and the modern political structure. Heavy emphasis on interconnectivity, both among believers and the world. Highly mystical, ritualistic, and demanding, religion and politics are one and the same, equating the conduct regulated by the faith and the state. Society is stratified by rigid social constructs, caste systems, and predestination beliefs.

History: Locked in a slow evolutionary war with their natural predators - a combination of highly predatory creatures like the dreaded Kjaw avians and Qaq reptillians - the early Nocoii developed intelligence as a means to outwit and thrive despite its sluggish abilities, the ammonia-based life making evolution take place over a longer period of time. The formation of societal groups came soon, but it wasn't until about 6,500 years ago that the Nocoii domesticated a less-aggressive breed of the Qaq lizards, and, using their dexterity and strength, underwent an Agricultural Revolution, planting and cultivating the extremely nutrient-rich Jabuka shrub-fruit. These could be grown in most areas, but they required the deforestation of taller trees and needed the uprooting of soil, made possible by the Qaq. Soonafter, the Nocoii learned the ways to farm the myriad of tree-straggling vine plants, creating a variety of stable vegetation. On the meat side, the hunters of the Nocoii were now the hunted, as plump Qaq ere bred as meat, and the Kjaw became subject to hunting, as the nutrients allowed robustness and an increase in mental capacity, leading to tools.

By this point, the social structure became focused around agriculture, a singular community leader assuming the role of overseer and distributor, his power delegated to lesser officials. And of course, this in turn would be the progenitor of monarchial rules, these community leaders becoming hereditary figures. Known as Krals, who ruled kraljevsto, it was under their reigns that kingdoms rose and fell, for although even before the advent of advanced social systems the Nocoii were conformist in nature, the importance of local authority over general authority was strong. This would be the source of conflict for a large chunk of history. Cults to specific rulers were common, and oftentimes forced upon the subjugated.

The Nocoii would relatively quickly grasp the concept of industrialization, and some 400 years ago, the first factories began to churn out superior goods. It was not long before such practices swept over the land, machinery proving far superior to the Nocoii tentacles, more precise and quick, even in the archaic beginnings of mechanical engineering. However, with this rise in quality, and with that an improvement of tools designed for murder, conflict was intensified, sparking fear amongst the generally docile people. This panic would reach a crescendo when chemicals causing intense dryness, effectively promising an agonizing death, were mass-produced for use in war. Coinciding with a new age of intellectualism and education, this would create the grounds for a movement that rejected the current system, that would abolish the perceived issues of the Krals and their rule. Expectations of radical change began to develop, not through democracy, but through the efforts of a single figure destined to rise. Loosely meaning the 'Inherent One', the Noco was this figure, though initially just how it would bring change was debated - peaceful reform, violent overthrow, or perhaps even apocalyptic disaster. This would be the birthplace of the Nocoii Covenant.

This period of history, despite being fairly recent, is the most vague and whitewashed, the official narrative perhaps lost in favor of the church canon. Reportedly rising 233 years ago, the Noco would began its ministry, wandering the known world, spreading divine prophecies and wisdoms, supposedly riding on the back of a massive Kjaw avian. As the legend goes, the Krals feared such a figure, and so a particularly nasty one named Iarkas sought to kill the Noco. And although an army marched upon a single figure, it was said that none can pierce the Noco's skin, its mucus ever-flowing against the stings of chemicals and weaponry. In awe, the entirety of the Kral's forces would defect, killing Iarkas, and proclaiming the Noco heir to the kraljevsto. However, the Noco would refuse, stating a sentiment that would be most popular in future quotations - "There is no Kral, only Noco, no kraljevsto, only Kolevci." This statement was the basis for the liquidation of the monarchial kraljevstos and the rise of a planetary government.

By the end of the Noco's ministry, every Kral was either dead, had stepped down, or had melted into obscurity, the lands given to the Noco, oftentimes by the lesser lieutenants of the Kral. These elite would retain their places of power, adopting the teachings of the Noco and crafting a highly regulated priesthood. Essentially, the very same bureaucracy remained in control, except instead of professing loyalty to the Kral, they held authority in the name of the faith. The Noco itself would supposedly glow with warmth, float to the skies, and disappear in a brilliant flash that made two-months of daylight. In reality, it is very likely that if the Noco did exist, it merely died of old age or was betrayed by an ambitious disciple. The hopes of before were satisfied, and the Krals were truly abolished. From among the priesthood was chosen a Kurir, a herald of the will of the Noco to serve as head of the church, and in effect, the ruler of the entire people.

Since then, Nocoii society has been focused on evaluating the ministry of the Noco, interpreting his various sayings, as well as continually purging any perceived challenge to orthodoxy. Science prospered under a planetary unification, and more often than not, the church proved itself capable in encouraging education and the spread of knowledge, so long as it was not deemed heretical. Luckily, the particular story of the Noco's departure from the mortal realm has been interpreted as a calling to the stars, a feeling that the Nocoii are in Covenant with the Noco, and that to fulfill their end of the deal, they must spread across the heavens and deliver salvation to any and all who may be out there.

Government: The planet is unified under the auspices of the Nocoii faith, represented by the church which serves as both the spiritual and political authority. Headed by a Kurir who serves until death, and is chosen from among the top brass of the priesthood, a great deal of power is maintained by the conclaves which elect and then advise the Kurir. These members in turn tend to hold control in their own jurisdictions, administrative bureaucracies that encompass the old lands of various defunct kingdoms. Local laws are passed, judged, and enforced by these clergy, with all the incompetence and corruption that entails.

Military: Following the ministry of the Noco, the various feuding armies were consolidated, all beneath the church. Each administrative region now employs their own legion, a primarily defensive force essentially designed to quell any heresy or rebellion if need be. In a few instances, such legions are used for intimidation in politics. Technology involves the usage of projectile-based firearms and chemical warfare meant to cause extreme dryness., though such weapons are considered extremely controversial.

Economy: Nocoii society is very communal, rooted in adherence to a leader. Thus, the economic structure of the Covenant deals mostly with supply and demand, goods given when needed, with a high standard of living. While open to abuse, it has been seen as the norm to provide the common Nocoii with luxury goods for the sake of happiness.

 

[Haresus]

The Ordo Malleus finds the above sign-up free from the taint of chaos and hereby declares it accepted.

 

[Deaghaidh]

I'm unlikely to be able to resist this. I will probably revive my giant throbbing bugbrain.

 

[Gorganslayer]

Name: Supreme Protectorate of Ophion.

Star System: from innermost to outermost

• Star: Drakos [class K star]
  
  
• Serpentium [barren rocky world]
  • Has an extremely tight orbit of Drakos and thus lacks any orbit. However its soil is very mineral rich.
• Lamia [arid world]
  • Despite a small oxygen rich atmosphere, a weak magnetic field and the presence of liquid water in various corners of the planet, no life has emerged on this small world.
• Ophion [continental world]
  • A large world, filled with several large continents, an oxygen mostly consisting of nitrogen, carbon dioxide, oxygen has resulted in the growth a of mainly tropic environment on the planet, and a generally warm and humid climate. Though several more temperate, desert or frozen areas do exist
• Ladon [gas giant]
  • A deep blue gas giant, it is surrounded by many moons, some thought to possible candidates for basic alien life.
• Caduceus [Gas giant]
  • Caduceus is famed for its helix rings, which intertwine around the deep orange colored system. Inside these rings are a multitude of small asteroids, moons and other space debris
• Typhon [Frozen World]
  • Far from the rest of the planets in the system, typhon is a small and uninteresting planet, separated by a large asteroid field from the rest of the system. Believed to the last major planet in the system although rumours of a planet VIII still persist.

Home Planet Name: Ophion


Home Planet Description:

A continental planet, with an atmosphere comprising roughly 80% nitrogen, 15% oxygen, 1% Carbon Dioxide, and other trace gases (mainly greenhouse gases) and with a thicker atmosphere than earth, (roughly 2.5 standard atmospheres) The planet is roughly 60% water, and 40% land, which is split up into roughly 5 continents. The majority of the planet is made up of tropical rainforests or thick jungles in the south, while the north tends to be dominated by more temperate plains and the occasional sparse forest. Both the far north and the south have frozen poles, and there is a small area of desert around the central continent. Weather on Ophion is generally split into a distinct dry season, which is typically very windy, and with temperatures often reaching the lower 40’s. Meanwhile the wet season is usually very humid, and tends to bring very strong storms often resulting in large scale hurricanes or cyclones. Despite the temperature being lower in the wet season, due to high levels of humidity it rarely feels anywhere below the moderate 30’s. Extensive dry seasons can often lead to bad droughts occurring in parts of the planet. Ophion is also surrounded by two moons, Medusae and Colchis. During the Gorgons industrial revolution and space age expansion many forests have been cleared, or managed as urban sprawl as grown extremely quickly among the populace.


Species Name: Gorgons.

Species Biology:

Gorgon are reptilian-like, carbon based lifeforms native to the planet Orphion. A fully grown Gorgon can be anywhere between 7’ and 7’6” tall. A predominantly carnivorous species the Gorgon can also be omnivorous to a certain degree, although with still need a diet primarily based off meat. Gorgon are relatively intelligent creatures. They have evolved a 2nd pair of arms in order to increase productivity and strength, as well as a thick scaled hide which is proof against most blunt force trauma, common from melee injuries. Gorgon tend to socialise and form into large congregations to maximise productivity and for self-defence. They are an apex predator in their habitat and the biggest threat to a Gorgon is generally another Gorgon. Living on average for 100 years, a Gorgon’s physical strength and intelligence tends to begin to degrade sharply after 60 years or so, and by the time they reach one hundred they tend to become docile creatures spending long periods (weeks or months) in extended hibernation or suspended animation. Gorgons are split into a male and female version of the species, with the male typically being the larger of the two, while the female has a more greenish skin colour and two crests on their skull above their eyes, the species reproduces through sexual reproduction. A Gorgon is born as an egg and a typical clutch consists of roughly 6 or so eggs, taking roughly 2 months to hatch, a Gorgon reaches full maturity after around 20 years or so. Of odd note is their ability to detach their tails when threatened, and dark, dappled grey skin tone which allows them to blend into the rainforests of their home planet.


Culture:

Gorgon culture varies from region to region, based primarily on the different biome of the landscape. A Rainforest culture tends to put more stock in the warrior traditions or athletics of its peoples. While a city in a more temperature part of the world leans towards harvest festivals and a knowledge based achievements. However in addition to region culture the government enforces its own cultural beliefs and ethos on the populace. Chief among this is the belief in loyalty to the state before loyalty to your Nest [Family]. The system also enforces a strict patriarchal system on society, based on concepts of social darwinism, idealising the concept of the male soldier who defends and progresses his society, and the female teacher who ensures the continuation of the species and the passing on of culture and knowledge to the next generation. Militarism is also embedded strongly within the social zeitgeist, and forms the basis of the class structure in Ophion. Language is conducted through a series of animalistic sounds such as clicks and hisses which may look primitive to the outsider but is governed by a complex set of rules which dictate the meaning of certain sounds and combinations of onomatopoeia, rather than through a collective alphabet. Although there is a written form of the Gorgon language, it serves more as a rough translation and is generally only learn’t by the upper echelons of society due to the complexity and extensive time involved in learning the written form of language and making anything more than a few sentences be interpretable. Due to this much stock is placed in audio recording and playback machines, with verbal communication even in the forms of ‘VIM’s’ [verbal instant messages] or Podcasts being the most common method. Gorgons are athiest, never having had any major religion coalesce, and those few cults that emerged quickly cracked down on as threats to national security. Society is highly stratified into four major stratas. The Military forms the upper echelons, serving as the leaders and enforcers of the Gorgon way. The second class is made of up of wealthy, influential business elite as well as the scientists and engineers at the cutting edge of their fields. This class while not directly in control of the government can wield clout within the military elite who rule the nation and benefit from some special benefits or privileges. The third class is made up of the majority of the remaining Gorgons, the main workers and drivers of the state. Although generally the populace is not the most well of and certain areas suffer from heavy-handed repression, the populace is kept in line through indoctrination, propaganda and an inbuilt belief by the populace that the government does it for their own good to protect them from themselves and their ‘base and primitive ways.’ The final class is consisted of those who suffer from disability and handicap, be it mental or physical which prevents them of fulfilling their servitude to the state. In some cases under particularly strict leaders old-age amongst the lower class is considered a disability, leading to unpleasant end of life situations. Most members of these classes either live as homeless in the urban centres, or a forced into Government certified ‘workhouses’ where they can fulfill their duty to the state. Due to the nature of society and culture which places the military foremost, it is common for the first son from any family to serve in the military in the hope they can achieve distinction and move the family up the social ladder.


History:


Origins:

The first ancestors of the Gorgon emerged in the wake of a mass extinction event which had wiped out 95% of all life on Ophion. [scientists believe a freak geological anomaly caused an extended dry season and short wet season resulting in mass death to dehydration and a collapse of the food chain.] At this time all the continents of the planet where one and these early ancestors quickly spread out to cover the planet, evolving quickly to adapt to the rapidly changing climate which send new rainforests growing everywhere. Eventually the continents began to break up and drift apart. The group of these Ancestors who remained in the new central continent (the origin of the first ancestors) grew rapidly on the evolving mega-fauna of the plains and rainforests. Despite this the group was in-constant conflict with the six-legged Gata, a large feline which could climb trees and outrun or overpower a small group of these early ancestors. In time though these ancestors evolved into the species now termed, Gorgonis Minoris the direct precursor to the modern day Gorgons. This species was the first to evolve the twin pairs of arms, and this coupled with their expanded brain power and development of tools like fire and spears, these early Gorgons quickly gained the upper hand over the Gata who were now on the backfoot and as a direct result the species is thought to be extinct to this day.


After the establishment of the Gorgons as the apex predator of the central continent, a population and technological boom was established. The small family units began to form together into nomadic hunter-gatherer tribes, before eventually forming larger, stagnant communes in advantageous regions. This development lead to the creation of agriculture and domestication within the population who found that certain species produced foods like eggs or milk which provided a more easily exploitable resource than the constant hunting of food as the Gorgons evolved to tolerate and eat these foods, as well as vegetation such as grains and vegetables the species became omnivorous for the first time, and this is generally accepted as the beginning of Gorgonis Majoris the modern day Gorgon. Over time society continued to grow, and technology progressed, with fishing boats being built that could sail up rivers and return with nets full of fish, bows which kept hunters safe from retaliation by their prey. For a while it seemed the civilisation would be contained to the central civilisation however changing climates and over-hunting combined to lead to the great exodus.


The Great Exodus & Growth of Civilisation


Eventually changing temperatures caused the once fertile central regions of began to dry out and the once great megafauna went the way of the Gata, falling prey to over hunting and climate change. Faced with the threat of mass starvation, the Gorgons were faced with no choice but to relocate. Great fleets of primitive canoes and store boats were assembled on the coasts of a once green continent slowly being reduced to dust and dirt. Without knowing if the ocean held any freedom on the other side these canoes all slowly made their way into the unknown void of the seas, knowing that to stay was to await a most slow and painful death. Luckily for the Gorgons, while many of the canoes never found anything other than a deep grave under the seas, many others did not and found the shores of the other continents.


In these various continents each group of survivors eventually came into contact with other descendants of the gorgons ancestors, each of which had evolved to become the apex predator on its continent. While in a few cases these species recognised the Gorgons as their brethren and helped them in founding a new civilisation, in most cases the survivors were met with open hostility and were forced to fight to defend their livelihoods. The fact that as of the modern era, the gorgon is the only surviving descendant of those ancestors shows the results of those conflicts.


The Dark Ages


The dark ages are used to refer to the time before the varying survivors of the exodus on the different continents had come back into contact. On each continent many civilisations sprang up eventually many joined together to create the first nation-states or city-states. Technology evolved quickly in these civilisations, techniques of metallurgy, clay-making and others lead to the origin of a great many trades, and the first major cities emerged, as hubs and trade centres in the world. In addition the first firm scientific principles began to be laid down as philosophy and a strong mathematical system was established, [a base 5 system] that eventually would give way to the base 10 system used today. During this period it was the first time the Gorgon’s began to ponder the mysteries of the world above, with a astronomer correctly theorising that the planet Ophion was revolving around a deep orange sparkle in the night's sky. (the planets sun) On each continent these nations would eventually meet, leading to centuries of warfare, diplomacy and intrigue that is best left for another day. Apart from a few brave explorers nobody ventured past the shores of their home continent.


The Age of Discovery and the Industrial Revolution


As the dark ages drew to a close on each continent, the many small city-states and nation-states that had formed in the early days were replaced by larger countries and polities, controlling major parts of the land, while some smaller states did exist through careful diplomacy, they mainly survived by playing the larger powers off of each other. Most of these nations at the time ruled by an oligarchic council, which was in some ways confirmed by the populace in a form of indirect democracy. Spurred on by the possibility of striking riches and reduced opportunities in native continents the nations began to send ships to sail the oceans in search of new land. Eventually all the continents had run into each other through this increased age of naval traffic. Relations started off benevolently with trading posts and diplomatic gestures common sights in the continents, Quickly however goodwill was lost as the true value that the other nation states might possess was considered. A rapid competition as commenced by the great powers of that world, each serving to gain a considerable advantage over one another. During this period many of the remaining smaller states were either subsumed into the larger empires of their own continents or found themselves as protectorates of an overseas power. Eventually, roughly 400 years ago, this process gave birth to the industrial revolution. Almost overnight, society was transformed, factories and dense cities began to emerge all across the globe, with powerful machines and access to greater science equipment society flourished and the population boomed. The industrial revolution became a time of both great achievement and great shock. Nearly everyday it seemed that some new life-changing invention was being created, and the growth of an empowered middle class led to the establishment of stronger indirect democracies in many nations. However it was a cut-throat world and those who could not keep up were quickly subsumed into those who were at the cutting edge of the modern world, as such by the winding down of the revolution each continent was ruled by one nation state and each was ready to fight for the hegemony of Ophion.


The War to End all Wars and The New Democracy


Roughly 305 years ago after the winding down of the industrial revolution the world stood on the brink of war. The Nation of the East and those of the North formed an alliance, while those of the West and South did the same. Those few living in the central continent where quick to declare their neutrality, fearing the consequences of a global war. Orphion stood one minute from midnight, all that waited was someone to pull the trigger, and one week the gun was shot. The Chancellor of the Eastern Continent was due to arrive, in the North at the start of the week to discuss a way of de escalating the situation and peaceful resolution to the conflict, however he ran nearly a week late and was later declared missing. While it is believed the plane he was in suffered a mechanical fault and crashed into the ocean, at the time it was believed to have been shot down by the forces of the north and south and after a tense week of arguments, war was declared. For the first few years conflict was restricted to naval warfare between the continents supported by airstrikes and bombings, as no side felt they had the strength to risk a military assault. In a desperate ploy to force a change, the western and southern forces broke the central continents neutrality, and invaded in order to establish a forward base. The east and north responded by rushing the aid of the central nations and a stalemate was quickly reached. The war would continue on for two more years, during which millions would die on both sides. While the politicians may have had the guts to keep fighting on for years, neither to populace or the military did. In a period known of the Month of Red, the governments of the nations were toppled one by one. These successful rebels organised an armistice, and at the very place where their ancestors created the first village, a treaty was signed which joined all the gorgons of Orphion into one national government to be ruled on the principles on direct democracy, so that the politicians could never again go against the wish of the people.


Collapse of Democracy and the Space Age


The New democracy would not last more than 50 years, the principles of direct democracy once thought to have been the best way forward hampered any legislation being passed. Even when it was passed huge accusations of corruption and vote tampering plagued the new democracy. Rather then uniting the people of Ophion into one great civilization, instead voting blocks built up around the old nations, and it seemed nearly every month a new secessionist move would emerge, and have to be crushed again. Fearing a total collapse of the government a small group of the military decided to make a change. Commanding the loyalty of key units in a bloody coup, they disposed of the heads of the government and any people suspected of posing a threat to national security. In the wake of the coup, there was rejoicing in the streets as the people finally believed a stable and peaceful government was in place to guide them into the future. The rest of the military quickly pledged their loyalty and a military dictatorship was set up under the general Iolaus.


Commanding total respect and power the general quickly set about changing the face of the Gorgon society. Believing his race to be naturally martial and bound to come unstuck at some point if he continued like the predecessors, he believed that he needed to focus the martial aspirations of the gorgons into a weapon of the state. Through a lengthy 40 period, he oversaw this change. Which created the modern caste society of the Gorgon society. Any disagreement or even the slightest bit of insubordination was quickly crushed underfoot and brutal acts of repression carried out in order to force compliance. After his 40 year tenure he died of a heart attack and the military agreed to put his brother; Photius in charge of the dictatorship. His brother held a lengthy 80 tenure but during that time he put in place checks on Iolaus’s previous policies, replacing rigorous repression with changes to education and propaganda that effectively brainwashed the populace into following the government. Although the military and police was still used on occasion for brutal crushing of several ex-politicians of the new democracy era. For the most part he spent his 80 year period however ensuring the longevity of the government as well as pushing for increased business growth and scientific discovery. Indeed it is a testament that during this time he was witness to the first launching of a probe to Lamia, and the first Gorgon to land on Medusae. Eventually he stepped down in and went on the first expedition to set up a colony on Medusae. The dictatorship was passed on to Admiral Heracles, a career officer who was hopeless at running a nation. His reforms slowly drove the economy of the Protectorate into the ground, as large sums were diverted to funding an ever larger military or military research. Although some good came out of this (nuclear weapons were developed) Heracles was an unpopular leader, and his actions annoyed the wealthy elite that funded and supported the military. So after a short 10 year reign, the military deposed of him, and decided instead of appointing a dictator that the nation would be ruled by a collective of important military men, establishing the modern day junta.


The Modern day


The junta would continue to rule, shaping the new nation that emerged from the shattered wastes of the great war, the new democracy and its riots and finally the coup that established the military leadership. The wounds healed and as Iolaus had predicted the Gorgon took to the new order like fish to water. Leading an impressive growth of both economic and technological growth. Iolaus’s family influence never abandoned the Junta however and 100 years after the establishment of the junta, a new constitution was created, in it, the junta was retained as the main legislative body, but Iolaus’s family were crowned the ‘Emperor-Militant’ of the Supreme Protectorate and took the surname Ceto. While in actual fact most of the power remains with the junta, the emperor still has influence over it, and can introduce and pass his own laws, and is granted emergency powers in times of crisis although the extent of this is unknown, as it has never been called upon before. During this period the Gorgons under the previous Emperor-Militant, Sarpedon Ceto I, have greatly expanded their interest into the planets and moons sharing the system. Due to this space fever, the two moons of Orphion are now home to large populations and are each ruled by their own General-Governate. Furthermore Ophion's sister planet of Lamia, is quickly developing into its own fully developed society, and is viewed with pride by the junta as an example of the power of the Gorgons. Other planets and moons are also developed with most gas giants having mining colonies established on their moons. Meanwhile Typhon is home to a top secret research facility. 15 years ago however the greatest achievement of the Protectorate was discovered, revolutionizing society, and preparing for the protectorate to make its next leap into the future. Unfortunately the first FTL ship when due to make its jump promptly exploded, even worse was the fact that on board was the emperor-militant himself, Sarpedon. Now with the ascension of Ajax Ceto II to the throne, and a 10 year built up, the Protectorate is finally ready to expand its reach and influence to the stars.


Government:


The Government is made up of a Military Junta, and a Head of state, the Emperor-Militant. The exact number of members of the junta is unknown, though it is generally expected to number at least 50 members or so. Most important amongst these are the General-Governorates, military men directly responsible for managing smaller sections of Ophion or its smaller colonies. The exact manner in which the junta runs things is up for speculation although it is generally perceived to be a mix of democracy and autocratic procedures. Despite his prominent position the Emperor-Militant doesn’t actually have much power and is generally beholden to his ‘underlings’ in the junta, especially seeing as they can easily replace him with another family member more amiable to their wishes. In truth the emperor is designed to serve as a figurehead for the population to rally around and a scapegoat for the junta should something go wrong, and any attempt to use his power is likely to incur the juntas wrath. Of questionable concern is the junta’s double role as the judiciary as well as the legislative, although for now few seem to have any concern over it, out loud at least.


Military:


The Military is consolidated under the junta, each regiment is trained to answer to the junta as a whole during peacetime, and its commander during wartime. The Army is highly trained and large, although it is spread across the system in order to enforce its will. The Army is equipped with high end technology, and uses highly modern firearms developed from the original primitive models developed over 600 years ago. In addition heavy weapons are common among platoons as the 4 arms of the species allows them to handle larger weapons with ease. The Celestial Navy is in charge of managing all warships of the Protectorate, and currently operates a moderately sized fleet designed primarily for system defense and exploration. The air force is its own service that works mainly in cohort with the navy, all though it still operates its own bases on the planets and systems that belong to the Protectorate. The army and navy are currently in a transition phase to better adapt to a future where they are likely to be fighting in space or foreign systems.


Economic:

The Protectorate has a nominally free-market economy based around the trading of goods and currency. Government intervention in the economy is high however, and a large national military-industrial sector can draw resources away from other sectors.

 

[Nax24]

So in. Reserved for Civilization posting.

 

[EmperorGrimm]

1. Short History
2. Civilization Name
3. Home World
4. Star System
5. Species Biology
6. Government
7. Society
8. Military
9. Economy
​

1. Short History
2. Civilization Name
3. Home World
4. Star System
5. Species Biology
6. Government
7. Society
8. Military
9. Economy

(1) Short History

Originally consisting of 93 post-industrial nation-states, the Keter'lul experienced three global conflicts between the Thran Noctron "Traxa Imperium" and the Nepqod Thons "communist union". In the third, a nuclear exchange destroyed the former geopolitical order, a three century post-apocalyptic era followed. Beneath the surface of the planet, subterranean shelters maintained and safeguarded the whole of Keter'lul technology, culture, and knowledge. Digital communication continued between these shelters, influential leaders emerged to unify these communities. De-radiation projects managed to clean large regions of the planet of radiation. The first surface resettlement migrations occurred and after two hundred years, the planet has been largely resettled albeit in vast domed metropolipses. Under one of these hubs, Hweqod, a new global political order arrived, the dawn of the technocracy. The old despotisms and communist republics were replaced by brilliant, immensely talented technocrats, individuals who abandoned ideology and confronted the problems of reality according to a philosophy of existential rationalism. They established the (2) Keter'lul Prax "Keterian Ascendency" , a technocratic ascendency dedicated to centralized social engineering, philosophical and scientific exploration, and the search of spiritual fulfillment. The entire species is born, raised, and dies as entropy toward the omega point, the great disintegration.

Keter'lul civilization began in the Valley of Sunda on the island continent of Aebil. Civilization flourished here, it quickly became the most civilized region of the world. Gradually the Jathuru Noctron "Jathuru Imperium" came to dominate Aebil and its civilization spreading to all corners of the planet. This period spans five thousand, three hundred years covering the Sunda Era, Rise of Valley Nations, Jathruru Conquest, and finally the World Imperium. The Jathruru were a patriarchal culture from the most furtive lands of the valley. Their philosophy can be compared to Hinduism and Buddhism. A rigid and vast caste system developed during the three thousands years of the World Imperium. The World Imperium ended during the industrial age, fracturing into dozens of nation-states aligned to aristocratic alliances. For five hundred years this persisted, prevalence of warfare fluxed and waned, the concept of liberal democracy appeared among the lawyers and intellectuals in the aristocracies. Indeed a fairly significant non-violence movement spread throughout the world until a series of massacres known as the Sacrifices of Unity altered the confidence in this philosophy.

Purges became routine, ultra-conservative aristocrats became cruel and desperate to keep the socialist democratic forces of the world under control. This tension broke the nervy peace of the Early Industrialized Age leading to the first Global War, between the Global Revolutionary Union and the First, Second, and Third Coalitions. Resulting to the consolidation of aristocratic feudal lands and families together, as the Thran Noctron, an imperial state influenced by something resembling fascism based on the superiority of the ancient nobility. In opposition was the Nepqod Thons, a communist union in control of the Yulaalal Pact of nations. A cold war began for 102 years leading to nuclear war in the early quantum age. Hundreds of subterranean shelter full of refugees persisted and carried on Keter'lul civilization and technology. During this three century period underground the aristocracy held on to power in some enclaves while others socialist democracies continued on. The ancient caste system was eradicated, all people were brought to equality of circumstances underground. Power was based more on compromise, working together, and promoting leaders with merit. Digital communication at first and then the Keterian Renaissance some four hundred, fifty two years ago followed the physical resettlement of the planet. Recently their civilization has had many great achievements from the successes of their breeding programs, the engineering of three dimensional printing of many materials, and an understanding of genetic manipulation to such a degree that they have been able to quadruple agricultural output in half a century. The Ascendency is organized into a new caste system, there's the Talnush "technocrats", Brilna "warrior", Valwash "artisans", Mecala "scientists", Traxa "engineers", Catrua "laborers", Kaish "outcasts/philosophers/gurus".

(4) Bartal, the home world of the Keterians is a gaia-like planet that experiences only seven months of sunlight because of debris storms. Animal and plant life that exists on Bartal currently was engineered and bred by the Ascendency. During the dark season, global temperatures fall dramatically, below zero fahrenheit at times. The engineered ecosystems respond by mass hibernation of animals, plant life produce nutrient rich oils that creates a protective covering that gives nourishment during the winter. Keterians meanwhile live in vast domed highly urban hubs where artificial climate control supports life there. Bartal is the second planet from the Sun. Mircau is the closet planet to the sun, its barren landscapes baking from the heat of Nileshkosh. Craters paint its surface marking a long history of cataclysmic impacts. Ascendency presence here though is extensive, automated mining operations extract precious metals essential for the functioning of warp drives. There are also three gas giants, Jupaoi, Gunesha, and Nbim all of which contain vast quantities of hydrogen. Jupaoi is dark purple, there are four storms raging in its atmosphere the size of Bartal. Gunesha in comparison is far more stable but contains the least amount of hydrogen. It's orange atmosphere has earned it the name Gunesha, a mythological being responsible for giving the first valley nations the qwash (the size of four oranges, rich in nutrients, orange in color). Nbim's atmosphere is green while its only storm dominates the southern hemisphere. It is defined by the stark contrast of its color, a deep red. Between Bartal and Jupaoi is the Rhaln Asteroid Belt, a hive of mining operations. It is quite dense, four times as much as the one in the Solar System. Finally we have the Qosi Cloud which encases the star system with asteroids.

(5) Species Biology

Keterians are humanoid in appearance, with an average height of 5 feet, 4 inches, they possess blue/purple skin *see image above*. They are not physically imposing compared to other humanoid subspecies, at their heaviest they will weigh 160 pounds. Their hearts are in the middle of their chest and they possess two separate stomaches in the lower torso. They possess an organ that can aid in the processing of oxygen enabling their ancestors the ability to stay underwater for lengths upward of an hour. Hair growth ended for Keterians roughly 10,000 years before the current date. Average lifespans range from 90 to 140 years. Keterians maintain a youthful appearance their entire lives, their organs however wear down over the course of a century usually. There's three genders of Keterians, male, female, and malith. Maliths are asexual physically and psychologically, they are often used to resolve disputes and make of much of the diplomatic ranks of the species.

(6) Government

The Ascendency is the highest echelon of political governance. Members are elected for life and can only be expelled by the parliamentary assembly elected by the technocratic population. There are two bodies, the Consular Office and Technocratic Assembly. A Consul is elected by the Assembly for terms of 12 years with no limit. The Consul is typically an experienced and respected member of the Assembly. Technocrats are born to serve in the Assembly, they are raised by the state to be leaders and dynamic problem solvers. Technocrats serve as governors, military leaders (along with the warrior caste), social engineers, and the arbiters of law and order. Keterians have often favored simplistic political systems with power highly centralized. The caste system often handles local and private disputes between individuals and families.

(7) Society

Before, the caste system was grassroots and persisted as political systems changed. Under the Ascendency the new caste system is closely linked to the state and dedicated to the will of the Ascendency. Mobility is possible if the government determines you adaptable and capable of the duties of the caste. If you want to be an artist for example, they will study your psychology and talent to see if you would be worthy of being an artist. The caste hierarchy is protected by laws that protect all Keterians from murder, theft, violence, and forms of exploitation. Castes also live with one another although they have varying degrees of life quality. Laborers are afforded their own house if you have a family or an apartment if unattached. However warriors, technicians, and of course technocrats enjoy greater share of public resources.

Keterians have long practice eugenics though the advent of genetic engineering allowed for the end of some methods that were considered uncivilized. Natural birthing is still widespread but females are required by the caste laws to have their children engineered within a month of impregnation. Children who are not engineered used to be permitted but the Ascendency has for decades halted this practice in order to maximize talent, fertility, and psychological stability. They are often aborted once discovered or permitted to be born on the rare chance that it meets the Ascendency's genetic standards. Parents are rarely punished, the population save for small rebellious elements approve of genetic engineering.

Talnush "technocrats"; modified genomes with emphasis alpha grade intellectual capacity, sophisticated auto mechanisms for emotional control (though not to the point of creating psychopaths), eradication of impulsive, irrational tendencies in humanoids, educated in specialized schools dedicated to the cultivation of leadership skills, critical thinking, logic, and existential rationalism. Possesses extensive understanding of sociology, political philosophy.

Brilna "warrior"; engineered for combat with emphasis on exceptional physical prowess, bred for easier emotional bonding for superior unit cohesion, above average intelligence, controlled number of alpha grade intellects meant for officers, raised separately from parents in agoges with specialization through military academies after teen years

Valwash "artisans"; alpha grade intelligence, wide range of emotional templates, artisans are the only Keterians without psychological control mechanisms, trained in state sponsored art schools, granted absolute freedom of expression while acknowledging that the Ascendency reserves the right to censor their work, dedicated to spiritual exploration

Mecala "scientists";



, Brilna "warrior", Valwash "artisans", Mecala "scientists", Traxa "engineers", Catrua "laborers", Kaish "outcasts/philosophers/gurus".

(8) Military

Military service is demanded from those born into the warrior caste. Though an individual no matter their class can be part of the military and its seen as a way of advancing beyond one's class. The military consists of the Terrestrial Force, dedicated to fighting on planets, moons, and the like. The Interstellar Navy, dedicated to warfare in space. And various specialized departments. Average fighting age is 25 to 70. Only technocrats can be Admirals and Generals, Chiefs of a department, and like high offices. A history of incessant warfare, the Keterians have extensive knowledge of waging war, raising leaders, and innovating strategies and tactical solutions. In recent years the cultish uprisings in the asteroid belt led to a five year war giving experience to current leaders.

(9) Economy

Typical post-industrial quantum-grade civilization. Utilizes automated labor for dangerous, labor intensive tasks. Biological workers are often involved in managing private enterprises, the service industry, or maintaining low end technology like worker robots and personal computation. Three dimensional printing is revolutionizing Keterian society, providing an abundance of goods, food, and other materials for people at cheaper and cheaper cost.