Pilgrim59
Bellua 1-4
Astral Fulcrum OST - STARLINE WRAITHS
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ASTRAL
FULCRUM
Glossary
M.O.B.I.U.S MANUAL
SOVEREIGNTY
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- Glossary01GlossaryDestiny awaits beyond the decayed stars.FORSYTHIA001The forgotten gardens of the Precursors, Forsythia thrived in blissful ignorance. But the greed of man quickly thrusted the galaxy into chaos. Turning their backs on their creators, many took to the stars, corrupting the very instruments that protected them from the decaying cosmos. Habitable planets gave insight into the Precursor’s incomplete works. Industrialized planets birthed the hands that would lay the rails to the stars. From robust space crafts that aided in the traveling between planets, down to the fundamental apparatus that fuels nations. Magic came hand in hand with technology, as industrialization evolved into a race for time itself.
The Farbanian Empire and the United Kingdoms of Sorento have long been at each other’s throats over Precursor technology and knowledge. The two superpowers, long prided themselves as the children of the cryptic civilization, sought to unite the galaxy and ascend in the image of their makers via different means. While their objectives are mirrored, adversity came hand in hand with the curse of the Precursors - greed. Out of the thousand-years long cold war, both were eager to strike, as the Precursor’s most magnificent and mysterious creation finally revealed itself to the envious tenants of the Forsythian Galaxy.
Open conflicts over rare resources and strategic territories between the Empire and the UKS have been in works for as long as the last ten generations could remember. As both sides began to target Precursor ruins, they both established an intergalactic clash in the guise of a contest over ideology and protection of their ways of life. Beyond the propagandas and befuddlement that plagues both the Farbani and the Sorenti, the Great Contest eventually paved the way for the idea of a decisive war to settle the scores once and for all. The Halation War, the epitome of the race for ascension, would become one of the costliest wars in the history of the Forsythian Galaxy.
Amidst the pettiness of myriad powers, racial discrimination has always been a work-in-progress for these so-called advanced societies. Propagated by the rift between nations and equity of rights, it was war that managed to forsake these problems in pursuit of victory. Militaristic views abundant, augmented by the eloquent schemes of provocateurs, helped to shape the extreme spectrums of politics and philosophies. Left to their own devices, the galaxy is an arena for those that are brave - or foolish - enough to navigate.
But mankind is not alone. Creatures known as Leviathans roam the vast sea of stars, some benign while others preying on unsuspecting travelers. While little is known about them, their behaviors have been studied by many civilizations since the beginning of time. Farbani culture regarded them as the guardians of the Precursor’s gardens, keeping humanity in check in their master’s absence.
MAGIC & TECH002From essential necessities to advanced instruments of war, much is owed to the Precursor, whose terrestrial ruins and astral structures are scattered across Forsythia. The Farbanian mages of yore have prided themselves as the pivotal instruments of decciphering the Precursor’s technology and knowledge. While the mysterious civilization has vanished, remnants of their work have contributed much to the progress of Forsythia’s intergalactic interactions and perhaps disputes.
On one hand, the Farbanian Aureum formed the basis of the Empire’s understanding of the Precursor’s knowledge, weaving the arcane with that of contemporary understandings. By this tradition, the Aureum encourages many aspiring scientists and inventors to pursue the arcane art. Magic is innate and can be refined by any Farbanian through extensive studies and training. According to Professor Kreissmeier, a Sorenti cosmonaut, however, they reasoned it to be the Farbanian’s prolonged exposure to Velika’s ruptured core, which contained a high concentration of starline radiation. Thus resulting in the Farbanians’ mutations, which partially explained the diverse races that inhabited the surrounding planets. Yet, due to a limited scope of scientific research into the subject, this claim instead managed to provoke the Farbanians as it undermines the history of the mages and their contribution to the galaxy as a whole.
On the other hand, the United Kingdoms of Sorento, a collection of likeminded rulers that wished to advance and sustain their people, believed in the pursuit of logic and science. Unlike the Farbanians, they denounce magic and view it as nothing more than a scientific breakthrough by mere luck and circumstantial evolution. As such, Sorenti kingdoms are technology-oriented, with drones as a slave force to propel humanity’s progress. Utilizing the Precursor’s knowledge, the Sorenti instead reverse-engineered a fraction of the long-gone civilization’s technology. Mass-produced plants and factories are common within the United Kingdoms’ systems, with automation playing a big part in the daily aspects of the Sorenti lives. Unlike the Farbanian energy-based weapons and complex machinery designs, the Sorenti holds an advantage with mass-produced ballistic firearms and weapons - which can be replaced quickly and at a lower cost.
The Farbanian Aureum is the refined foundation of most magic systems in the galaxy, as it builds upon the understanding of the Precursor's ability to tap into the aether. While various schools of magic are established throughout the galaxy, magic itself refers to the ability to command mana that seeps from the flowing aether in the universe. All this can be done at the cost of mana, which flows through every living creature. Due to the concentration of mana on certain planets being considerably sparse compared to Velika and her surrounding systems, the Farbanian Empire is well-known for pioneering the field of magic ahead of everyone else.
Magic transcribed by Farbanian mages comes hand in hand with the Farbanian traditions. As their sphere of influence spread, Farbanians manage to assimilate much of those that walk the path of the arcane. While their magic is nowhere close to the primordial nature of the Precursors' knowledge, Farbanian Aureum have aided in the shaping of worlds and nations as the Empire expands across the galaxy. As various practices of the Aureum differ by their methods, magic remains a subject to learn and master by the user's experience, rather than wishing it to be true as a standardized system. Yet despite this, there are limitations as to how magic is exercised within or outside the Empire.
According to the Imperial laws, magic is well-regulated by identification devices carried by its citizens. Should the mana reader overshoots a certain threshold, the Arcane Lawkeepers will be deployed to resolve the situation. In certain cases, such as a verified magic trial or a riot, thresholds are lifted for verified individuals. The only singular exemption is the military's no-limit policy to promote the effective utilization of magic in the field. This, in turn, led many to enlist in the Imperial Armed Forces to further their practice of magic without limitations over their mana. An individual's physical and mental state often dictates their endurance to mana corruption. Should they exceed their own limits, the user may experience detrimental effects. Upon reaching a critical state, the user's body will begin to crystallize. While some effects may be treated, internal corruption of the organs may be irreversible, leading to a painful death.
While magic is diverse in its practices, the loremasters have established an alignment system to aid the Imperial Armed Forces Reform of 3081 as follows:
Protection – Accrued defenses and preservation type of magic that increases their allies' endurance and strength.
Liberation – Survivability-related types of magic, via the liberation of one's physical and mental fatigue.
Havoc – The primary technique of this alignment allows the user to focus and eliminate one-target at a time, thereby maximizing their mana output.
Exudation – This alignment allows for area-of-effect attacks to deal with foes en-masse or scattered targets.
Dread – Demoralization and terror reduces the enemy's fighting capabilities.
Restoration – By remedying wounds, Restoration specialists ensure that their ally live to fight another day.
AXIUM003A silvery-cyan metallic element that was used by Farbanian mages throughout history as a catalyst to imbue objects or mitigate the effects of a powerful spell. Due to its varied uses, it is often considered an invaluable resource for many sovereignties across the galaxy. Axium is present in most of the deposits scattered across Forsythia, but the purest form is often found and extracted in trace amounts from certain Precursor sites. It is believed that axium was once an important and essential resource for the Precursor, as most of their ruins are filled with traces of axiums. During the first major conflict against the Sorenti, Farbanians discovered the use of certain metallic elements in combination with axium that furthered the advancement of space craft hulls and reactive armor technology. In addition, axium has diverse applications in electrical and electronic components, lasers, glass, magnetic materials, and industrial processes. A liquid form of axium, designated AX-5, is cultivated by boiling it down with pure mana, resulting in the creation of liquid fuel that is used to create energy and power most vehicles. Even as the Farbanian Aureum school of magic evolved throughout the centuries, axium remains a constant in the equation. Combat mages often utilizes axiums as a medium for enhancements, quick-casting spells, or delayed-effect dispersions. A versatile element that is used in almost every aspect of life, axium is considered a strategic resource for those that could get their hands on it.
TBD004>Complete Chapter 5: Fog of War<
TBD005>Complete Chapter 6: Skyfire<
TBD006>Complete Chapter 8: False Gods<
- M.O.B.I.U.S MANUAL02MOBIUSDestiny awaits beyond the decayed stars.DESIGN0011.0 PROJECT M.O.B.I.U.S
The MOBIUS (Mechanized Operative; Biomechanically-Integrated Unilateral System) Project was a concept of integrating the contemporary research on mana with that of the artificially-intelligent drone technology. The idea was based upon the renowned Dr. Maxwell's intricate research into Golemancy and the symbiotic relationship shared by the master and the familiar. Project MOBIUS materialized as a response to the Sorenti Titans. In a way, MOBIUS is often considered the arcane equivalent of Sorenti technology.
The concept of MOBIUS revolved around two factors that are stated in its name - the Mechanized frame and the piloting Operator. The Operator acts as the soul and center of the operation, while the Mech becomes the instrument to carry out the Operator's will. The Operator (pilot) is responsible for their integral coexistence with their surrogate Mech. Rather than piloting the combat frame like a normal drone, the pilot shares an aetherial bond with their MOBIUS that is implemented during the augmentation process. This allows the pilot to perform extraordinary feats that would otherwise be impossible for a bilateral system. A pilot's compatibility with their MOBIUS is as important, if not more than their piloting skills.
1.1 MECHANIZED WARFRAMES CLASSIFICATIONS
Prior to the appearance of Sorenti Titans, various attempts to create armored warframes have been in the works for many decades leading up to the Halation War. Varying in size, shape and purpose, many eventually folded into various categories to simplify the increasingly standardized production line - saving the technical specialists from having to memorize the different arrays of manuals and subsequent headaches. The most prevalent stars of the modern aerospace-domination strategies are the Farbanian Mobius and Sorenti Titans, which form the bulk of the Titan-class giant armored paladins - named after the Sorenti’s first debut of their advanced technology. Serving as a versatile platform for their lesser successors that are mass-produced, the Titans gave way to the development of both larger and smaller platforms. The following are declassified equipment throughout the galaxy, sorted by their classifications:
1.1.1 TITAN-CLASS
Mobius
Origin: Farbanian Empire
Height: 65 feet (20 meters)
Armaments: 2x slots of various long-range equipment ranging from cannons to missiles, as well as blades for close-quarters engagements. Laser systems include the AIMALS (Axium-Integrated MAna Laser System).
Armor: 3rd-gen Krupp composite armor
Shields: Verosa Armati Energy-Shields
Countermeasures: Trinity MDC (Mana-Dispersion Countermeasures) & electronic Duppels
Power plants: 3rd-Gen Verosa Armati Reactors, Bastion of Axia
Titan
Origin: U.K.S
Height: 65 feet (20 meters)
Armaments: 2x slots of various long range equipment ranging from cannons to missiles, as well as Nova-grade metal blades for close-quarters engagements. Laser systems include the CARLS (Calibrated Axium Reactive Laser System).
Armor: 2nd-gen Aegys composite armor
Shields: Regalia Energy-Shields
Countermeasures: Ultima electronic countermeasure & IR flare systems
Power plants: 4th-Gen Regalia Reactors, Haenel Core
1.1.2 MYRMEX-CLASS
M15 Myrmidon
Origin: C.I.R
Height: 47 feet (14.5 meters)
Armaments: 20mm cannons, 70mm unguided general-purpose rockets, 105mm general-purpose anti-armor gun, Nova-grade mandible blades.
Armor: 1st-gen Sigurdsson explosive-reactive armor
Shields: N/A
Countermeasures: Smoke-dispenser systems
Power plants: 2nd-Gen Raiden Reactors, Haenel Core
Variants: M16 Avenger (Anti-Air & Artillery), M17 Hoplite (CQB Swarm), M15R (Logistics/Transport), Bokotzyr (High-explosive suicide-mecha used by Yakaban militias).
1.2 DEFENSIVE CAPABILITIES
Primary protection for MOBIUS and its pilot is provided through the intricate armor design and the use of an energy shield (invisible to the naked eye) that could block both physical and optical weapons. The protection level of the shield is sufficient to be impenetrable to most conventional weaponry, but it could be penetrated by high-powered energy ones. The basic armor plates of the MOBIUS only offer modest protection against concentrated smallarms, since any weapon powerful enough to pierce the shield would be also powerful enough to penetrate the armor plate. However, special equipment such as additional physical/energy shield or augmented heavy armor plate could provide moderate to adequate level of protection. Armed with the latest update of technology and magitech, these mechanized titans are equipped with heavy composite Krupp armor to withstand most small-arms and automatic cannons.
The integrity of the energy shield is maintained unless the MOBIUS is depleted of power, but the shield tends to lose its strength when nearing a complete power depletion. This is applicable to all other components such as auxiliary hovering armor plates. Special mana weapons, especially, tend to have difficulty maintaining the materialized shape when nearing power depletion. Utilizing the latest Verosa Armati 3rd-Generation Reactors, the MOBIUS is further reinforced with powerful energy shields to counter heavy ordnance, energy-concentrated weapons and to mitigate the burning effects when entering the atmosphere. To further their aero-astronautical survivability, MOBIUSs are also armed with Düppels to deal with heat-seekers and homing weapons in the air. The Argentis, a First-Generation MOBIUS deployed during the early stages of the Halation War is the only-known titan to jettison an array of high-explosive drones for its düppels.
1.3 PAICON
The PAssive Inertia CONtrol (PAICON) allows the MOBIUS to accomplish extreme agility and mobility unparalleled by any conventional platform. PAICON largely absorbs and negates impact shock, thus protecting the pilot and the MOBIUS from catastrophic events such as high-speed collision. Paicon is also applied to flight assist and coupled with gravity control technology, making MOBIUS capable of flight and hover. However, the Bastion of Axia’s complex code requires immense mana input. As such, these warframes are costly and require extensive maintenance in prolonged operations.
1.4 HYPER SENSORS
When the pilot is linked to the Hyper Sensors, they receive augmented sensory input data from MOBIUS's sensor, linked to their five senses. When piloting a MOBIUS, the pilot's senses, such as vision, are greatly improved. Using the sensory data input from the armored machine, the pilot gains a 360-degree field of view, being able to perceive directions that are usually impossible for the human body without turning their head. However, because such improved sensory input is much different from the normal human body, the pilot must process the input data into something they could comprehend first. The speed and efficiency of processing such data will decide the effectiveness of pilot’s related maneuvers.
1.5 BATTLE DAMAGE REPAIR
As the MOBIUS gains experience during any situation while active, be it normal training or combat, it records data about its every component and proceeds with the optimization process. When the MOBIUS receives damage, it will automatically try to stem the damage based on the pilot’s experience and data. The resulting data collected would be implemented throughout its component to improve its efficiency, but the damaged component would be left out of the equation. For example, an aggressive pilot with a history of vanguard experiences will prompt the MOBIUS to opt for the continuation of the ongoing operation, therefore prioritizing the field repairs of armaments and disregarding any auxiliary components that will reduce combat effectiveness.
It is possible to commandeer a damaged MOBIUS with enough axium cells. But such action - especially entering combat situations with damaged MOBIUSes - is highly undesirable, since the MOBIUS will try to cope with the given situation only with components that are still operational. Activating a partially damaged MOBIUS causes the inoperable components to stop optimization until it is fully repaired. This kind of situation could have serious implications since it would interfere with the general optimization process and could even prevent the MOBIUS from utilizing its special abilities. For that reason, even the most hot-headed pilot tends to refrain from forcing damaged MOBIUS into action. Meropide, designed as a coagulent sealing agent since the beginning of the space race, is integrated alongside the fire-extinguishing system for temporary rupture containment and critical damage control.
1.6 A.W.S (WEAPON SLOTS)
The AWS (Augmented Weapon System) is an external-integration system that allows the Mobius to be armed with various weaponry available. While the weapons themselves are stowed within compartments of the Mobius's integral frame, the AWS utilizes an external frame work to smooth out the arming process, while reducing most complications with weapons-loading procedures. Like most aircrafts in the Legion and the Navy, an Ordinance Master is designated to oversee the upgrade and maintenance of the Mobius. As such, any attempt to arm or modify these arcane war machines should be cleared with the MOM (Mechanized Ordinance Master) assigned to their respective Combat Group. Much like a car rental service, MOMs have the final say on the matter of "lending" out weapons. Due to the Bastion of Axia’s effects on the Mobius’s compatibility with weapon augmentation, the warframe is limited to two main weapon slots to compensate for optimal mana-circulation. Weapon types are sorted into four distinctive categories: Melee, Guns, Missiles, and Mana-Charged Weapons. Pilots may request the arming of TWO weapons from any category below:
1.6.1 STANDARD MELEE
[Sygnis Blades]
- Sigismund-Grade Sygnis blades are long metal sheets that can cleave through most conventional armor with ease. Due to their optimal design for maximum penetration against armor, a standard Signis reserve mounted on a Mobius can only carry up to six pairs of blades. However, these folded sakorium blades can be replaced with ease via drones.
[Holoblades]
- Holo-blades are mana-charged blades with a wired hilt to continuously maintain its projection. These blades are more powerful than their Sygnis metal counterpart, but can drain a Mobius’s mana reserves - thereby reducing their optimal operational range.
[Sakoran Lance]
- The Sakoran lance is a long-reaching polearm made of rolled sakorium. The origin of the weapon’s development traces back to Theodosius's pilot of the Cataphract Squadron, who improvised a cavalry charge against the Sorenti forces at the Battle of Kafr al-Byr. Used to great effect against immobile targets with its axium-embedded tip, the lance can achieve profound penetration against most Sorenti armor.
1.6.2 STANDARD GUNS
[25mm Chain Gun]
- Plucked from the Imperial Legion’s infantry-fighting vehicles for Mobius use, the 25mm chain gun is the lightest weapon available for Mobius with a controlled rate of fire. Armor-Piercing with Tracer (AP-T) and High Explosive Incendiary with Tracer and Self Destruct (HEI-T) rounds available.
[30mm Rotary Cannon]
- Borrowed from the Imperial Navy’s fighter aircrafts for Mobius use, the 30mm cannon is a versatile weapon for most situations. The rotary cannon utilizes multi-purpose High-Explosive Armor-Piercing with Tracer & Self-Dustruct (HEAP) rounds.
[40mm Grenade Launchers]
- 40mm Grenade Launchers are effective against soft-targets and infantry.
[75mm Anti-Tank Rifle]
- The heavier 75mm anti-armor gun used for armored targets, at a slower rate of fire.
[105mm Assault Gun]
- A heavy, high-explosive cannon used for infantry support and urban environments, the 105mm can also be utilized as a direct-fire light artillery piece.
[155mm Howitzer]
- The 155mm howitzer is generally used for artillery support. Its smoothbore design allows the gun to be used in prolonged combat without concern for barrel fouling, albeit at the cost of precision.
1.6.3 STANDARD MISSILES
[AAM]
- The standard payload of most aircrafts and titans, the Air-to-Air Missile allows a pilot to engage airborne hostiles. There are cases that AAM are also used against ground targets in unconventional warfare.
[LRAAM]
- Long-Range Air-to-Air Missiles are used to engage and disrupt enemy formations at a longer range than their standard counterparts. Its homing capabilities are reduced and it has a longer flight time than the standard AAMs. In inclement weather conditions, the LRAAM can be disrupted and divert its course.
[SRAAM]
- Short-Range Air-to-Air Missiles are more powerful missiles with greater payload to destroy their targets with ease, while capable of reacquiring its target within the immediate vicinity. As the name suggests, its lock-on range and homing capabilities are limited for optimal utility.
[MTAAM]
- Multi-Target Air-to-Air Missiles are pods composed of homing missiles that are used to eliminate multiple targets at once. Used to great effect by the Farbanian Armed Forces against the Sorenti drone fleet, the MTAAM’s only weakness is its range.
[AGM]
- Air-to-Ground Missiles are warheads first developed for anti-armor use, later developed for precision strikes against high-value targets.
[GPB]
- Guided Penetration Bombs were developed by many nations around the galaxy to further the precision of an aerial attack. By having a forward observer on the ground or manually guiding the bomb, maximum precision is achieved.
[DAB]
- Delayed-Action Bombs are unguided bombs that are designed to explode some time after impact - ranging from very brief to even days. For ground assault missions, Mobius are often armed with short-delay bombs that achieve initial penetration before exploding. DABs are useful for low-altitude attacks, preventing the Mobius or aircraft from getting caught in its blast radius. Meanwhile, longer-delays are also available to prevent salvage operations and spread terror in the area.
[RKT]
- Unguided Rockets are used primarily in the air-to-ground role, but can be modified to be used as a ground-based saturation weapon.
[TRP]
- Torpedoes are an underwater ranged weapon launched above or below the water surface, self-propelled towards a target, and with an explosive warhead designed to detonate either on contact with or in proximity to the target. Great for waterworlds and naval targets.
[TOW]
- Tube-launched, Optically-tracked, Wire-guided missiles is a type of ground-based missile that is guided manually by the operator. This weapon is often used for close-quarter and urban operations with limited line-of-sight.
[EMP]
- Electro-Magnetic Pulse weapons are used to disrupt enemy electronic devices and equipment. EMPs can be augmented for use as a cruise missile or bomb.
1.6.4 MANA-CHARGED WEAPONS
[AIMALS]
- The AIMALS (Axium-Integrated MAna Laser System) is a Farbanian quick-firing railgun that requires precision to compensate for its exhaustive use of axium batteries. Augmented with the latest ram servos and fusion-well, the AIMALS can recharge passively - allowing the Mobius to fire consecutively before burning through the auxiliary mana cells.
[Radiante Mk.VI]
- Naval laser pods converted for Mobius use, the Radiante utilizes mana tanks to fire. Due to its cooling requirements, the Radiante was designed with a secondary trigger-lock governor to reduce the chances of pilots snatching the triggers for automatic fire and fouling the weapon's integrity as a result.
[Skorpion]
- A powerful naval weapon used by the Farbanian Saida-Class Battlecruisers converted for Mobius use. This railgun possesses high-capacity mana-cells and acoustic amplifiers for sustained output, allowing it to maintain a concentrated beam continuously. Highly effective against shielded vessels or heavy dreadnoughts, the Skorpion's only weakness is its exposed mana-cells that are loaded externally via the AWS.
1.7 M.O.P.I.T
The MOPIT (Mechanized Operative; Personnel-Integration Trainer) is a trainer unit variant of the MOBIUS, produced in late 4044 in preparations for the establishment of the Aerospace Initiative Combat Academy. The MOPIT was designed to help familiarize the second-generation cadets with the latest control systems.
B.O.A0022.0 MOBIUS COMPATIBILITY
Prior to being accepted into the MOBIUS Development Program, a select few candidates must undergo numerous tests and compatibility trials. This is measured by their aureum index, their mental capacities, as well as their corruption threshold. MOBIUS constructions are then constructed according to the pilot's design and skillset. Each MOBIUS is unique to their master's customization and compatibility via aetherial connection. As such, should a pilot perish in battle, the MOBIUS will also self-destruct. MOBIUSs are limited in numbers due to their specified compatibility issues and are deployed strategically to turn the tide of battle, rather than fully augmenting the troops on the ground. MOBIUS pilots also receive extensive physical training for low-profile infantry-only operations, as well as aeronautical training for zero-gravity combat terrains.
2.1 B.O.A - THE PALATINE GIFT
Magnificent and awe-inspiring colossi, bred solely for war, MOBIUSes are the epitome of Farbanian ingenious and monumental achievement - built in the envisioned images of the Precursors. Within the MOBIUS is a powerful mana core called the Bastion of Axia (BoA). BOAs are cultivated by dedicated Kos Aureum Arkanas, who sacrifice a portion of their life harnessing powerful mana that spills from the stars. These cultivated energies eventually took form and manifested itself as a lucid chamber to house their destined masters. The process of cultivating BoAs dates back to the First Phase of the MOBIUS Project, and is mostly cryptic. Written in an-ever changing rhythm of aetherial resonance, BoAs are often developed by processed data of the pilot’s combat experience and MOBIUS mana bonding.
BoA is observed as a Forsythian singularity, and can only be matched by the mysteries of the Precursor’s gift to mankind. Unlike the Sorenti’s mass-produced titans, the BoA’s selective parameters are unique in their self-written design that are unfathomable to the finite minds. Pilots that have pushed beyond the limits of said parameters often find themselves cursed with visions of madness. In a way, the Bastion serves both as a catalyst for extraordinary feats and the amphora of aberration.
The Palatine Gift refers to the complex Starline codes woven into the Bastion of Astra, akin to the Precursor’s bestowment of their knowledge upon the Scions in the original myth of Velika’s birth. The art of deciphering and unlocking these potentials to further enhance a MOBIUS’s aetherial abilities is often strenuous and requires extensive experience in dealing with what the experts dubbed the “mana coding.” While adept Kos Aureum loremasters are able to stabilize and monitor a MOBIUS’s BoA compatibility with their corresponding pilots, the primary factor of expanding a MOBIUS’s strength is found in their connection and bond with the pilot. Much like a golemancer’s relationship to their familiars, their psychological and aetherial bond must be sturdy in most regards. In order to develop a MOBIUS’s ability, a pilot’s connection to their BoAs are key to unlocking their true potential. While cases vary, the harnessing of the Palatine Gift spirals down to a pilot’s ability to face certain challenges as they bond with their MOBIUS.
2.1.1 SPECIAL WEAPON & RESONANCE
There is also the option of materializing a unique weapon developed by the BoA. However, in order to control the “burst” of mana and optimize its use, certain equipment have to be made especially for the weapon in question, a complication made problematic by the BoA’s aetherial codes. Since each core is unique, a MOBIUS may reject certain equipment, resulting in prolonged development time. Factors such as elemental-compatibility and material durability are commonly focused on by the Palatine Section, as they attempt to resolve the issue.
Each MOBIUS has a unique burst ability called “Resonance” and can be triggered by the pilot to raise their mana output exponentially higher. Each Resonance reacts to the pilot’s instincts and is often used in conjunction with an ultimate maneuver to turn the tide of battle. Depending on the pilot’s Aureum alignment, Resonances can differ - ranging from a concentrated beam of pure mana energy to a dispersion of healing properties. As Resonances consume a huge amount of mana, it is advised to conserve a Mobius’s Resonance for strategic deployments.
2.1.2 H.Y.M.N
In addition, various sources have shown that certain music may influence a MOBIUS’s performance in battle. While mostly disregarded as a myth, it is a popular habit for pilots to maintain a personal track during sorties. This is known as the H.Y.M.N Theory (Harmonic Yearning; Momentous eNgagement).
OPERATOR0033.0 D.N.A.I
As part of the augmentation, pilots are injected with a portion of the MOBIUS's core fluid. This binds the pilot to their mechanized titan, facilitating a vicarious relationship between the two - enabling them to parallel their movements, should the two be separated physically. The D.N.A.I (Direct Neural-Aetherium Interface) is a coded implant that updates the pilot on their vitalities, as well as their MOBIUS's overall status. By being able to coordinate their surrogate body, a skilled operative is able to single-handedly turn the tide of the battle. Due to limited understanding in the complex field of aetherium studies, DNAI is exclusive to MOBIUS pilots and is not implemented to the standard-issued troops.
While the DNAI serves as a high-end channel that would be almost impossible to decrypt and hijack, the unregulated mana flow may become cause for several problematic drawbacks. Pilots may experience spontaneous episodes or physical relapses should they exert themselves. Furthermore, a Farbanian’s expected natural threshold for mana poisoning may not necessarily apply, as the bonding process itself may exceed a pilot’s endurance. While certain drugs can be used by pilots to keep them in the fight, the user will suffer from unpredictable reactions to their mana flow.
In general, pilots that fail to regulate their DNAI processing and physical conditioning may experience the following effects, but are not limited to: major migraines, psychosis, internal hemorrage, impaired senses, memory loss, physical deformity, cardiac arrests and ultimately death.
3.1 E.C.O.S
To combat concerns over mana corruptions, the Imperial Navy cooperated with the AICA’s Palatine R&D Department to create the E.C.O.S (Enhanced Combat-Optimal Suit) to mitigate the effects that the Bastion of Axia created on the pilot. However, should the pilot exceed the threshold implemented, the suit only serves to delay the negative conditions for a limited time. Utilizing the latest insulation materials with adequate protection against fragmentation and shrapnels, the ECOS proved eighty-six percent combat effective both on ground and in space. Should the pilot receive a high-velocity penetration, they are liable to bleed out and possibly suffocate in space should they fail to seal the rupture.
ECOS are implemented with IFF (Identification, Friend or Foe) chips with infrared and visible light strobes augmented for use in emergencies. Due to the maneuverable aspects of the suit’s design, the ECOS has a limited protection and weight feature, restricting the user’s load-bearing capacity, plate protection options and equipment. As a result, pilots are limited to compact self-defense weapons. To compensate for lower protection, the ECOS is augmented with light thrusters and magnetic capabilities that allow the pilot to scale vertical obstacles and maneuver better in environment with little to no gravity.
As the ECOS is designed specifically for Farbanian personnel with high tolerance for mana radiation, those that fail to meet the bare minimum requirements in their health evaluations prior will have a higher chance of experiencing extreme fatigue and blacking out mid-operation.
3.2 STANDARD PILOT GEARS
A Mobius Pilot is equipped with various equipment that increases their odds of survival on foot. They are equipped with Personal Defense Weapons for infantry close-quarter-combat capabilities where a Mobius would not be able to cover, and Survival Equipment.
3.2.1 PERSONAL DEFENSE WEAPONS
[Thuringen-V]
The Thuringen-V (Versatile) is a Farbanian adaptive modular variant of the standard-issued Thuringen-S (Standard) that is used by both Imperial Special Forces and Mobius pilots. A versatile rifle carbine with a moderate rate of fire, chambered for 6.8 x 43mm (Farbanian) in full and semi-automatic modes. Equipped with an emitted-light optic with minimal frame, the pilot can quickly acquire targets - iron sights with a floating point-illuminated reticle. The Thuringen comes with a mana-channeled selector that allows the user to modify their weapon in-combat. By channeling their mana, the operator can switch between assault rifle mode and short bow mode. The short-bow mode allows its user to engage in stealth, utilizing wind-infused axium shards as projectiles.
[Manablade]
A versatile axium-sakoran composite blade for close quarter or stealth combat. The blade also allows the pilot to cut through most lightly-armored targets when ignited with raw mana. To compensate for the user's regulated mana-consumption, it is recommended to keep the blade’s max length ignited at 45cm. As the mana blade's output is seeping of pure aetherial energy, ignition may give away the pilot's position in low-light environments.
3.2.2 SURVIVAL EQUIPMENT
[Parachute]
- For atmospheric infiltration or ejection. Comes with a secondary reserve chute as a failsafe measure.
[Alchemy Kit]
- A mage’s makeshift workbench, the alchemy kit allows for the concoction of various improvised items such as explosives, decoction, enhancer and medical equipment.
[Nebkerz Grenades]
- Grenades used for screening or signal marking.
[Coagulent-Seal Spray]
- A can filled with industrial meropide that can quickly seal off a rupture. It is highly-advised to NOT clot a wound with meropide.
[Evocati Gen-4 Armor Plates]
- Two sets of replaceable ballistic plates utilizing nanocomposite materials to absorb force and reduce bullet penetrations.
[Field Dressing]
- The standard-issued medical pack to quickly seal a wound before seeking help from a medic.
- SOVEREIGNTY03SOVEREIGNTYDestiny awaits beyond the decayed stars.C.I.R
001FOERARIS LIBARA (Confederate of Independent Republics)
Capital: New Laurel
President: Lawryns Sutherland Barnes
Government: Constitutional Republic
Official Languages: New Arcadian
Currency: Starlings
Demonym: Confederates / Arcadians
Motto: "Truth prevails."
[BACKGROUND]
The Confederate of Independent Republics was formed as the direct consequence of the Sorenti-Farbanian centuries-old contentions. While most were merchant republics established as a buffer state to contain both the Sorenti and Farbanian from expanding, the Confederate began to militarize itself to protect the interests of many planets that wished to avoid war. During its tumultuous formation, the Confederation managed to diplomatically maintain their neutrality. Since their official recognition as an independent union of planets in 3950, New Laurel have since serves as a neutral ground for diplomacy between the two superpowers. Home to both the famous forward-thinking Hestian Society Institution and the most-secured planet in the galaxy. New Laurel is responsible for churning out the most elite of peacekeepers and intergalactic lawyers. As a result, most have come to regard the CIR a safe haven for the unaffiliated. Aside from the diverse and strict political atmosphere of New Laurel, many planets serve as both conservation sites and tourist spots for those that seek to get away from war and office politics. Meropis Prime is often considered as a big tourism-oriented planet.
New Arcadian is adopted by most sovereignties in Forsythia, including Farbania and Sorento, tracing its origins back to the early era of intergalactic trades. Often considered a neutral tongue, New Arcadian is used as both a courtesy for diplomacy and trade, especially between the constantly hostilities between Farbanians and Sorenti. Priding itself as a proud symbol of justice and unified neutrality, the Confederacy requires those under a visa to frequent their territories to be fluent in New Arcadian. It is often frowned upon, while residing in Confederate prime planets, to speak in another language.
[PRELUDE TO CONFLICT]
Their secret recipe to maintaining neutrality in the Halation War stems from their natural axium nodes that propelled the united principle of maintaining neutrality via a show of force. However, their independence did not truly see recognition from both superpowers until the deployment of the Paradisia-class aerospace defense carriers. The debut of the near-invulnerable Paradisia quickly dissuaded the Farbanian and Sorenti from resorting to war. Ironically, the CIR's attempt to deter the intergalactic superpowers' advances with the creation of the Paradisia only served to inspire the Sorenti to kickstart the Titan program.
FARBANIA002EMPYRA FARBUIS (Farbanian Empire)
Capital: Velika
Ruler: Empress Marbella Olysius Nox Ashburn Reverena Charix rui Hellriegel
Government: Absolute Monarchy
Official Languages: High Fabelica / New Arcadian
Currency: Kreimark(s)
Demonym: Farbani / Farbanian
Motto: "Her will be done."
[BACKGROUND]
Home to one of the biggest mana-radiated systems, Velika's environment allowed its inhabitants to manipulate the elements with ease - giving birth to the foundation of magic. Within Farbanian society, mages are often praised for their innate blessings that are considered as the Precursor's final gift. Devoted to their creators, Farbanian's reverence towards the Precursors comes hand-in-hand with the establishment of the arcane-enthusiastic society - only short of total fanaticism. Devoted to unraveling the mystery of the Precursor's disappearance, Farbanians are inquisitive by nature. As conflicts brew between them and their neighbors over the fruits of the Precursors, Farbania aimed towards intergalactic supremacy. Axium, the very resource that began as an artifact in ancient Farbanian history, would become the point of contention to spill blood over. As the Empire expands, many of its subjects began to look inwards - leading to various reforms to further their understanding of the Precursor's works. Like a child that wishes to live up to their parents' expectations, Farbania is united in the betterment of magic as a whole. And with it, the advancement of mandkind to realize the destiny entrusted to them by their forerunners.
A highly-militarized culture, propaganda and sentimental propagations stir its citizens most effectively. Nationalism overshadows the matter of racial diversity, as all sought to discover their destiny beyond the stars. Arcane pursuits are valued, especially put into practice within the field of combat. The ability to manipulate the elements is more than the endowed right of an average Farbanian, but a national pride to share with the rest of the galaxy. While Farbanian society emphasizes the advancement of their modern military, they do so within the belief of the necessary common defense and the spreading of magical practices to honor the Precursors.
[PRELUDE TO CONFLICT]
Under Empress Marbella Olysius Nox Ashburn Reverena Charix rui Hellriegel, the Empire began to seek cooperation with their centuries-old challenger for the stars - The United Kingdoms of Sorento. The enacted Ten Years Co-Prosperity Plan to expand upon the research into the Precursor's Nexus would soon be put to a halt when distrusts began to circulate among the two superpowers. Following the sudden change in the Empire's foreign policies towards Sorento, the latter's political atmosphere was also affected as a result. The Pelican Incident that cost the lives of more than two hundred Sorenti citizens, and disagreements over the jurisdiction of investigation into the matter quickly escalated the situation. When the Nexus came under Farbanian control, the Sorenti launched a pre-emptive strike to prevent the Farbanian 5th Fleet from dominating the airspace around the prized astral ruins.P.A.F002PERTORA AXERTUS FARBUIS (IMPERIAL ARMED FORCES OF FARBANIA)
The Imperial Armed Forces of Farbania is composed of two distinctive branches: The Imperial Legion, and the Imperial Navy. The Legion is responsible for direct terrestrial and planetary interventions, while the Navy is given the responsibility of power projection and astronautical dominations. Aerial units and operations fall under the jurisdiction of either branch, albeit with standardized training programs for aerospace superiority and support. By law, citizens from the home planet of Velika and her territories from the age of eighteen are required to serve in the military for a minimum of two years. The military’s basic training program encompasses a variety of physical and magical subjects that furthers the survival rate of the service member. At the end of their terms, the knowledge that they had accumulated could be utilized in their future military or civilian careers. Aimed at the preservation of the Farbanian magical heritage, as well as maintaining a combat-ready reserve force, the policy helped to shape the Farbanian militaristic mindset with an astounding national support as a repercussion. This is all thanks to the post-service career expansion programs that help to create jobs for military-affiliated personnel, ushered forth by the shrewd policymakers. Despite the romanticized imagery of a model soldier or sailor, military personnel are also responsible for infrastructure support and reconstruction projects in peace time.
However, due to the diverse pool of opportunity costs for such a system, the Imperial Armed Forces suffer from equipment shortages as they continue to expand their influence across the galaxy. This leads to the increasing demand for axium to power both their infrastructures and war machines. Unlike their Sorenti counterparts, Farbania emphasizes quality over quantity, resulting in the disproportionate ratio of their manpower to armaments, as well as their replaceability issues. With the recent expansion of the costly MOBIUS program, the Legion and the Navy face a shortage of manpower and equipment. Hinging on the precious initiative to bring an end to the war, MOBIUS pilots are both beloved and despised by their own brethren.
SORENTO003REGALIA UNIS SORENA (United Kingdoms of Sorento)
Capital: Vol-Tirkai
Ruler: Emperor Pharius Ramanova Illyrian Nikitas Carolyn var Elkyn
Government: Elective Monarchy
Official Languages: Kosun / New Arcadian
Currency: Persican Credits (Percs)
Demonym: Sorenti / Sorentese
Motto: "The Stars - our adjudicator."
[BACKGROUND]
Inspired by the applications of Precursor technology throughout their history, Sorenti believes in the ascension of mankind via their own creations and that they are destined to surpass the Precursors. Within Sorenti society, technology and machinery are a means to a grander end. A materialistic culture that profitted from the toils of their own hands, Sorenti's obsession with industrialization comes hand-in-hand with the belief of mutual benefits. As devoted to deciphering the Precursor's works as the Farbanians, Sorenti are driven by logic and reasoning. Long challenged by the astral mages of Farbania, Sorenti saw the need to prove themselves capable of transcendence without the manipulation of the elements. But more importantly, the United Kingdoms are composed of like-minded planets that opposes the idea of following the Precursor's steps.
A heavily industrialized conglomerate of conquered kingdoms and ambitious states, Sorento's home planet Vol-Tirkai is split into two distinctive administrative areas - the Everlight Domain and the Evernight Domain. Following the Sundering catastrophe that tore the planet in half, those that survived managed to restore a Precursor superstructure that kept the planet together. The grand edifice that stretched all across Vol-Tirkai like a giant root eventually became the bridge between the Everlight and the Evernight domains. The Everlight domain on the surface evolved into
grand cities that sponsored the ideal terrestrial opportunities. Meanwhile, the Evernight beneath the fractured planet is responsible for mining and processing precious axiums and other resources that power the entire planet. The Sundering, despite its catastrophic aftermath, revealed plenty of hidden resources beneath the surface - turning the Grand Kingdom of Sorento into a superpower over a short span of merely one century. Realizing the potentials of its applicable innovations that saw great success in the military industry, forcing Sorento to look outward - beginning the unification of its neighboring planets.
[PRELUDE TO CONFLICT]
The Emperor-Elect of Sorento was on good terms with the Empress of Farbania following the shared opening of the Nexus research station. As tensions grow, following the Pelican Incident, the radical elements of the United Kingdoms quickly gained favor from the public. The unstable political influence began to shift towards war, of which could only be lessened in scale. Despite the Emperor's best efforts to attempt a diplomatic solution, the Farbanian's deployment of the 5th Fleet quickly escalated the situation. While no one knew who fired the first shot, the two superpowers would be drawn into a long conflict that spared no sentiments withheld from one another.
R.A.S003REGAX AXERTUS SORENA (ROYAL SORENTI ARMED FORCES)
The Royal Sorenti Armed Forces is composed of two distinctive branches: The Royal Army, the Royal Navy and the Royal Titan Corps. The Army is responsible for direct terrestrial operations, the Navy for aerospace security and support, and the newly-formed Titan Corps as an independent strike force that facilitates the strategic deployment of mechanized Titans. As much of the Royal Armed Forces are augmented with mass-produced drone technology, Sorento enlisted personnel boasts higher morale than their conscripted Farbanian counterparts. The military’s basic training program encompasses a variety of physical and technical subjects that furthers the survival rate of the service member. As the Royal Armed Forces overall operational integrity relies on the drone's performance and the cohesion between them and their human counterparts, Sorenti doctrine of war prioritizes the optimization of their equipment. Retaining a peerage ranking system, merits are often earned on the field, giving its service members an incentive to strive higher than their predecessors. Adequate grades, and tales of self-made legends and extraordinary performance in the field inspires many to make a name for themselves.
Sorento also employs the service of mercenaries and volunteers, with various auxiliary units that were once Farbanian citizens.
As the Titan Corps expands, the Royal Armed Forces had to displace much of its resources to maintain the Corps. In contrast to the Farbanian's unique warframes, the mass-produced Titans and Myrmex forms the bulk of Sorento's versatile warframes. While they can easily overwhelm the Farbanian's defenses, maintaining such a fighting force requires a greater logistical train to support any large scale operations. The resulting effects are seen in the softer skirmishes during the first ten years of the Halation War.
Code by Nano
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