[hider=Avian Ascendancy] [hider=Species Info] [b]Standard Avian:[/b] [img]https://i.pinimg.com/originals/cd/8a/f8/cd8af85f643df6671a9e55bbd7002e0e.jpg[/img] Archeological evidence shows that the species known as Avis Homines has existed for around 50,000 years in its current form, with agriculture, literacy, and civilization having existed for nearly half that time. They are the first and only species to have achieved sentience on their planet, relying heavily on their intelligence in order to survive. This intelligence manifests itself through the creation of government and eusocial tendencies of the species. Despite coming in a great variety of differing coloration, there are no physiological differences between Avian other than the possession of the ability to manipulate the Shroud or not. The Avians are also incredibly long lived for organics, regularly reaching the ages of 200 - 300 before the creation of scientific medicine, and reaching ages of 300 - 500 in the current era. This long life span allows for a greater transference of knowledge and skills to younger generations, as well as allowing for a greater amount of time to cultivate one’s individual abilities. Despite these strengths, they do possess weaknesses. This species suffers from a tendency to wastefulness, having adapted in an environment of abundance. This has lead to inefficient processes that waste more resources than are used. This exacerbates resource issues in areas of limited resources. Another negative trait of the species is that they are also decadent, and have a natural inclination to having others do their work for them. They prize status and are averse to menial labor. Thus they have a tendency for enslavement so as to always have a underclass to both look down upon and do the jobs they don't want to. Lastly, they are slow breeders. The females are only fertile during a special mating season which occurs only once per decade during their solar cycle. They also only produce a small number of eggs in each clutch ranging from 3 - 5, with only about half hatching. [hider=Lifecycle] Avian eggs are typically laid a year after the eclipse, with each egg's coloration being correspondent to the caste that they have been born into. [b]Hatchlings[/b] - This is a catch all term for all pre-pubescent Avians. Though there species is long lived, they grow slowly early on in life. Freshborn hatchlings must be fed and constantly watched for the first 5 - 7 years of their life, as they are vulnerable and essentially defenseless upon hatching. When they learn to walk around the age of 12, they typically learn to speak and gain relative independence fairly quickly. During the first few years of their life, they expend massive amounts of energy and calories developing their brains and bodies. Formal education normally starts at 15 and continues until they are full adults at 50. [b]Birds of a Feather[/b] - These are fully developed adult avians. They reach finish maturation around the age of 50. This is when their feathers become the most vibrant and lush, and they reach full coloration which will dictate whatever caste they are part of. [b]Grey Feathers[/b] - These are what could be considered Elders. No matter the caste, even Peacocks feathers dull and grey over the centuries. This depends largely on the exertion and stress placed upon each individual, as well as differing genetic factors. Due to advancements in medical science, the dulling and greying of feathers can be postponed. While originally Grey Feathers began to appear around the age of 200, now it is more common for them to appear around the age of 400. [/hider] [hider=Mating Ritual] [img]https://www.frostscience.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/c-1024.jpg[/img] Avis Homines breed only once per decade, during a solar eclipse. Though inter-caste breeding is permitted, males are always born of their fathers caste and females are always born of their mothers caste. During this eclipse, the Peacocks use the Storks to spread their iridescent eggs across the general population. This is done to ensure that the Peacocks are always raised among and by the people that they govern, so that they never develop a sense of being apart from them. These eggs are considered a great honor and blessing to the family they are bestowed upon, and once hatched will be raised by these foster parents with special governmental support and monitoring. [/hider] [/hider] [hider=Planetary Regional Information] The planet which would come to be known as the ‘Egg of Life’ is a small to medium sized planet which is made up of 85% water, with the remaining 15% landmass being comprised almost entirely of a number of tropical and humid landmasses covered in thick foliage and vegetation. These island chains come in a variety of sizes, with all landmass on the planet being grouped into a total of six archipelagos regions. [b]Six Archipelagos Regions:[/b] • [i]Aethon[/i] – 9 Islands. Uncolonized ‘Promised Land’. Birthplace of Modern Planetary Government. • [i]Alkonost[/i] – 3 Islands. Forms Warring Tribes. Birthplace of the Species. • [i]Caladrius[/i] – 4 Islands. Forms a Monarchy. Birthplace of Authoritarian Superpower. • [i]Halycon[/i] – 5 Islands. Forms a Oligarchy. Birthplace of Civilization. • [i]Rarog[/i] – 12 Islands. Forms a Tribal Confederation. Birthplace of Avism. • [i]Sirin[/i] – 6 Islands. Forms a Republic. Birthplace of Egalitarian Superpower. • Total Islands: 39 Islands [i]Aethon[/i] – Aethon consists of 3 small sized islands, 3 medium sized islands, and 3 large sized islands. Each island in this region varies in size, with the region containing both the largest and smallest landmasses on the planet. This region is also one of the most well balanced in terms of resources on the planet. It is known for a sub sentient feline predator. [i]Caladrius[/i] – Caladrius consists of 4 medium sized. Caladrius is the only other balanced region on the planet, with each landmass providing an abundance of a different resource. This region is known for a sub sentient reptilian predator. [i]Alkonost[/i] – This archipelago is known as the birthplace of the species, and is the most mountainous on the entire planet. It consists of three islands, one being the 2nd largest landmass on the planet with the other two being medium sized around the primary island. It has several mountain ranges as well as volcanos that span far above the cloud cover of the islands, and is host to the iconic location known as the sea of clouds. The entire region is rich in mineral resources. This region is host to a sub sentient avian predator that is said to be the oldest predator of the people. [i]Halcyon[/i] – Consisting of 5 average sized islands, this region is known for being particularly hospitable and pleasant. It has an unusually high number of habitable areas for large populations of Avian to congregate and live, and was host to some of the earliest urban centers. This region is notable for having no predators. [i]Rarog[/i] – This region consists of 12 small sized islands, and is known for having electrical storms more frequently and with greater intensity than anywhere else on the planet. At all times there is a storm raging on at least one of the islands. These islands are known for a sub sentient electrical predator that manifests and hunts during the storms. [i]Sirin[/i] – Consisting of 3 small, 2 medium, and 1 large island this region is known as the breadbasket of the planet. Though it has a vast amount of food, it is known for being particularly dangerous due to a sub sentient canine species which only inhabits this region. [/hider] [hider=Planetary Pre-History] Although there is evidence for civilization dating back over 20,000 years, records surviving to the modern day only stretch back approximately 10,000 years. The first 2,000 years of records are fragmentary and usually written in dead or lost languages. The following 3,000 years of records become more coherent and closer to modern language, but still relies heavily on unprovable claims and eye witness testimony as opposed to any kind of verifiable evidence. It is only within the last 5,000 years that modern and reliable record keeping has been developed. The species seems to have originated from the Alkonost archipelago and once have been a sub sentient predator similar to the [ALKONOST PREDATOR]. Due to unknown reasons, this changed when the Avis species gained sentience. The species is shown to have spread rapidly from this point across the entirety of the planet, although it seems they would exist as primitive hunter gatherer tribes for several tens of thousands of years after this. Around 20,000 years ago the region of Halcyon was the birthplace of civilization when the first city states began to appear. Next to nothing is known about these ancient city states, though there is evidence that they warred against each other. There is also evidence these city states were ruled by powerful individual families that over time evolved into monarchy or oligarchy. These lost ancient city states would be the claimed ancestors of many future nations and city states. At the same time in the Alkonost region a primitive religion that focused on the worship and reverence of both flight in general and the [ALKONOST PREDATOR] in specific. All information about this religion surviving to the modern day survived solely through oral transmission. There are relatively few artifacts of the religion surviving to the modern day. Around 15,000 years ago - Creation of Stormism in Rarog. the first known organized religion began to emerge in the Rarog region, being a polytheistic religion centering around the powerful electrical storms that occur in the area. This religion focused heavily on martial combat, ancestral worship, and strict adherence to the will of the lightning spirits. Though it did not spread out of the region, it became deeply rooted in the local tribes and the adherents became known as Stormists. Information about this religion surviving to the modern day is known primarily through both oral transmission and cave paintings. 13,000 years ago – Spread of City States to Sirin and Caladrius. There is archeological evidence of the city states of Halcyon having spread to other regions, including both Sirin and Caladrius. It is unknown if city states arose in these other regions of their own accord or if Halcyon colonists spread the concept to them. [/hider] [hider=Recorded Planetary History] [hider=First Era] [b]1st Era – Ancient Era[/b] [i]Year 0 of the First Era (10,000 years ago)[/i] – Birth of the original Iridescent Emperor, Ancient City State World War. Some of the earliest fragmentary evidence recovered appeared to be concerning a massive ancient war between an unknown number of city states. It is known that the war spanned across all three regions which supported city states. It is unknown who or which side the victor was. Some of these earliest records also mention one of histories most mysterious and influential figures; the Iridescent Emperor. This Avis is known to have been born and raised in Halcyon and claimed to be divine. It is clear that he made substantial impacts in relation to the ancient war, though it is unsure what exactly they were. By the end of the war and his life the religion he founded had spread to both sides and all three ‘civilized’ regions, and became known as Avism. This time period would be known as the start of the First Era. Numerous Avis, both influential and not, would claim to be the descendant of the Iridescent Emperor of this period. [i]Year 1,000 of the First Era (9,000 years ago)[/i] War of the Five Iridescent Eyes- A massive war known as the War of the Five Eyes in which five separate factions all lead by an influential Avis claiming to be a descendant of the Iridescent Emperor tore the world apart in a brutal war. While details are scarce, it is known that ultimately the war ended in each of the five’s deaths. [i]Year 2,000 of the First Era (8,000 years ago)[/i] – Formation of Kingdom, Republic, and Oligarchic Confederacy At this point in time the ancient city states began to dissolve into larger nation states. Each of the three regions became its own governing entity, and they began to view each other as rivals. Halcyon remained a loose confederation of oligarchic and ancient city states, while Caladrius became ruled by its first monarch. Sirin meanwhile became the world’s first Republic. [i]Year 3,000 of the First Era (7,000 years ago)[/i] – Caladrius Failed Colonization of Rarog, Creation of Storm Chieftain Caladrius begins sending missionaries and colonists to the region of Rarog both to expand territory and spread Avism. The usually warring tribes of the region united under Stormism and successfully managed to repel the foreigners. This experience changed Rarog, leading to a more unified region. Although the tribes and islands still warred among themselves, this experience led to the creation of a Storm Chief who was responsible for the welfare of the region against foreign threat. Sirin’s Republic faces it’s first crisis in that it descends into a bloody civil war after faith in its fair and open elections declines. The civil war ends relatively quickly with the survival of the Republic, but with heavy casualties on both sides. Halcyon meanwhile prospered during this era as it became rich selling arms and supplies to it’s two neighboring countries. It used this newfound wealth to turn its ancient city states into the first few sprawling metropolises on the planet. [i]Year 4,000 of the First Era (6,000 years ago)[/i] – Death of Merchant King of Halcyon, Rise of Scientific Method and Industrialization in Caladrius, Sirin Colonization of Alkonost. The Confederation of Halcyon came under the control of a tyrannical merchant king that was the wealthiest Avis on the planet, and was on the verge of its own civil war. After witnessing the bloodshed that occurred in the Republic of Sirin’s civil war, it was decided this was to be avoided at all costs. This led to a coup in which several of the most prominent aristocratic families of Halcyon murdered him in cold blood. The Republic of Sirin began healing after it’s civil war and entered into its own period of prosperity. The Republic began to attempt its own colonization of Alkonost, having learned from Caladrius’ failed attempt in Rarog. Though the colonies it created in the region struggled greatly, they managed to enslave a significant portion of the population to be used for menial labor. The Kingdom of Caladrius began focusing heavily on industrialization and technology, determined to successfully subjugate the region of Rarog. This leads to it rapidly becoming a beacon of intellectualism in the world, with production capabilities increasing rapidly. The tribes of Rarog experienced a kind of spiritual renaissance when the region experienced an anomaly and had not just a storm on one of it’s 12 islands at all times, but a storm on all of them at all times. It was prophesied this would herald a great change, which it did. [/hider] [hider=Second Era] [b]2nd Era – ‘Industrialization Era’[/b] [i]Year 0 of the Second Era (5,000 years ago)[/i] Birth of Iridescent Emperor II, Reverse Colonization of Caladrius by Rorag, Strengthening of Sirin Colonies and Sirin Political Slave Strive, Spread of Shroud Abilities to Peacock Caste. – Iridescent Emperor II is born to a Stormist tribe in the Rarog region, and upon birth knows everything there is to know about Avism. Though born to a lowly tribe, as he grows into adulthood, he gains popular support among the tribes to replace the current reigning Storm Chief, but chooses not to. The Kingdom of Caladrius begins its second colonization attempt of Rarog. The tribes united once again under the Storm Chief, but he is slain during the initial invasion. Though the invaders had superior technology, Iridescent Emperor II manages to not only militarily repel the invaders but also convince them of his being Iridescent Emperor II. Because the Caladrian’s believed in Avism, they took him with them back to Caladrius to the capital. The vast majority of the people wanted him to be made king, but the reigning monarch, King Plume of Purple X at first refuses to relinquish his crown. It is only when he realizes just how little support, he has that he is forced to do so to avoid execution. Thus, Caladrius and Rorag became united albeit in an unexpected way. Meanwhile the Republic of Sirin expanded its grip on Alkonost, with its colonies transitioning from surviving to flourishing due to the exploitation through slave labor that they benefited from. Political unrest begins to foment in the Republic about the ethical and moral implications of slavery. [i]Year 100 of the Second Era (4,900 years ago)[/i] Iridescent-Purple Feather Civil War in Caladrius / Rorag, Fracturing of Halcyon into Noble families, Republic of Sirin Slave Uprising & Adoption of Industrialization, Prosperity of Halcyon – Iridescent Emperor II died of natural causes, and civil war erupted in the Kingdom. Several of his hatchlings claimed to be Iridescent Emperor III, and many of the tribes of Rorag rallied behind them. The only hatchling daughter of the usurped king Purple Feather X meanwhile rallied the noble houses of Caladrius to their cause, as many were unsure of Iridescent Emperor II hatchlings truly deserving his title. War would erupt, fracturing Caladrius and Rorag. This would be a conflict between three claimants’ to being Iridescent Emperor’s as well as the usurped son of Purple Feather. The three sons would unify just long enough to defeat the claimant Purple Feather XI, before warring among themselves. Eventually a single victor would emerge who would be known for his mercy by sparing both of his brothers and denouncing that any of the three were fit to be the Iridescent Emperor after studying the ancient War of the Five Iridescent Emperors, and wishing to avert a repeat of history. While there were some who secretly worshiped him as a Iridescent Emperor III in secret, publicly the trio ruled both Caladrius and Rorag equally. To further his claim of legitimacy he also married the defeated Purple Feather XI, intertwining their Feathers and ensuing a stable succession. The Republic of Sirin faced its first serious slave revolt in which a slave known as Claw of Red rallied all the ancient warring tribes of Alkonost together in an attempt to overthrow their Sirin overlords. This war ultimately claimed the life of Claw of Red and the Republic of Sirin claimed victory despite making many concessions in terms of slave quality of life and rights. The instability this war created caused the Republic to begin to adopt the Industrialization methods of Caladrius in the hopes of suppressing future revolts. Halcyon began the creation of mercenary forces they leased out to both sides of the Sirin Slave Rebellion, though they primarily sided with the Republic due to having much more resources. Having profited from this war as well as many others the region became the wealthiest on the planet, though the quality of life did not improve due to the domination of the Oligarchy over the common Avis life. This caused resentment to grow along with the wealth disparity. [i]Year 500 of the Second Era (4,500 Years Ago)[/i] Halcyon Uprising, Industrialization, and Collapse. Republic-Kingdom War over Halcyon. The Oligarchs of Halycon face their own massive insurrection when tensions reach a boiling point with the majority of the population being considered little more than slaves for the merchant families. This war tears Halcyon apart, though the noble families attempt to adopt the technological advancements that Industrialization brings, it proves too little too late and several prominent family lines are ended with their palaces looted by the common people. Several mercenary bands created to be sold to serve during Sirin’s Slave Revolt’s on Alkonost become roving bands of bandits which loot and pillage freely. This caused both the Kindgom of Caladrius and the Republic of Sirin to decide to intervene in the hopes of benefiting from the fall of Halcyon, as it was infamous for its wealth. This war would last for 500 years with massive losses of life to both sides. Many of the inhabitants of Halycon were forced to choose which of the two foreign armies they would rather rule them. The surviving Halycon noble families rallied together to attempt to reestablish control but were ultimately defeated and destroyed. The tension placed upon both superpowers from this conflict would ignite social change, with the Republic of Sirin offering full citizenship to Alkonost slaves who enlist in the military and the Kingdom of Caladrius being forced to grow more accepting of Rarog Tribal customs. Both sides profited greatly from the looting they did of the fallen oligarchy, and this only helped further their industrialization efforts. Both nations would eventually come to a agreement to mutually withdraw from Halycon having picked it clean of wealth and resources, deciding the region wasn’t worth the effort between local resistance and the other superpower attempting to stop them. [i]Year 1000 of the Second Era (4,000 Years Ago)[/i] The Republic of Sirin Bans Slavery & Develops Alkonost Airships, Kingdom of Caladrius Discover the Ability to Harness Electricity on Rarog Islands. Halcyon ruled by Black Bird Gang. The Kingdom of Caladrius and the Republic of Sirin exist in a state of cold war as both focus on their own internal development in an attempt to gain an edge over the other. Both become increasingly militarized and use the wealth plundered from the collapse of Halcyon leading to the creation of Republic Airships in Alkonost as well as the discovery of electricity in the Kingdom of Caladrius. The people of Halcyon slowly begin to rebuild their society, though it is ruled by pirates, outlaws, and bandits both locally born and criminals from foreign lands. They make the ruined palaces of the extinct great families their bases of operations. It’s reputation as a lawless land becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. A faction of killers known as the ‘Vultures’ lead by Beak of Black manages to unite multiple gangs and successfully conquer the region under the new government of the Vulture Confederation. The people of Halcyon suffer under his rule. [i]Year 1,500 of the Second Era (3,500 Years Ago)[/i] Alliance-Vulture War The Vulture Confederation rules for generations unopposed on Halcyon, and eventually grows strong enough to begin raiding the colonies of its neighboring superpowers. Assaults begin on Rarog Islands as well as in Alkonost. They even managed to steal a Republic Airship which they use as a mobile operations center. The Vulture Confederation are unable to withstand the military might of both factions forming an Alliance and are quickly forced back to Halcyon. Both militaries are reluctant to invade Halcyon itself again remembering the losses that occurred last time but ultimately decided the Black Bird had to be dealt with if not the native population than for the threat it posed to its neighbors. This protracted war in Halcyon would last 500 years before the final victory of the Alliance. [/hider] [hider=Third Era] [b]3rd Era – ‘Modern Era’[/b] [i]Year 0 of the Third era – (3,000 Years Ago)[/i] Birth of Iridescent Emperor III, Rebuilding of Halcyon, Foundation of the Church of Avism in Halcyon, Discovery of Aethon, Spread of Shroud Abilities to All Castes. In the ruined land of Halcyon during the final days of the War of the Black Bird, a hatchling was born with complete knowledge of Avism. He managed to unite the desperate and exhausted local people of the region and founded a Theology based Government with himself as the head of state. He called a meeting with both the Kingdom of Caladrius and Republic of Sirin in which he successfully managed to negotiate reparations for the looting which had taken place in the past, and secured both of their support in rebuilding Halcyon. After rebuilding the region to prosperity in record time, he would use the technology of both the Kingdom and the Republic to create a famous vessel known as the Albatross which was able to cross vast amounts of ocean until reaching an unspoiled continent, he named Aethon in which no Avis lived. He declared this the promised land before dying shortly thereafter. [i]Year 100 of the Third Era – (2,900 Years Ago)[/i] Kingdom-Republic Colonization War Begins, Halcyon Buildup, Colonization of Aethon In the aftermath of the death of Iridescent Emperor III, both the Kingdom and the Republic immediately began colonizing the new continent. War erupted shortly thereafter as expansionism got the better of both sides, causing similar levels of casualties as had happened during their mutual struggle over attempting to annex Halcyon. Halcyon stays out of the war and returns to its roots, selling weapons and mercenary services to both sides to acquire massive amounts of wealth once more and truly return to its prior level. [i]Year 500 of the Third Era (2,500 Years Ago)[/i] End of Kingdom-Republic Colonization War, Halcyon Colonization of Aethon, Death of Republic General Eyes of Green, Kingdom Civil-War. Republic of Sirin votes for its state religion to be atheism. Both the Kingdom of Caladrius and the Republic of Sirin had exhausted themselves fighting over Aethon, and this allowed for the region of Halcyon to wait to strike for the perfect moment. Ruled by the Church of Avism founded by the Iridescent Emperor III, they massacred the weakened forces of both sides and claimed the continent as their own. Both sides fell to internal bickering after the loss of the continent, having expended massive amounts of wealth and resources for nothing. One of the most famous and successful Generals of the Republic, Eyes of Green, blamed the politicians for the failure and lead a failed coup which cost him his life. Similarly, the Kingdom fell into a brief civil war as another claimant to the throne attempted to usurp it for themselves after the failure of colonizing Aethon. The Republic of Sirin votes for a state religion of atheism after resentment grows for Iridescent Emperor III. [i]Year 1000 of the Third Era – (2,000 Years Ago)[/i] The Church of Avis establishes a capital on Aethon, Kingdom and Republic both focus on technological development The Church based in Halcyon begin development of a massive capital in Aethon, considering it to be the promised land that the Iridescent Emperor III declared it to be. The construction of this capital drains them of massive amounts of wealth and resources. The Kingdom of Caladrius invents laser and plasma-based weaponry, while the Republic make progress in further refining their Airships to give them undisputed air superiority. [i]Year 1,500 of the Third Era – (1,500 Years Ago)[/i] Trinity War With the Church of Avism focusing on developing and colonizing Aethon, they fell behind technologically in comparison to their neighbors. Once they felt they had sufficiently prepared, both the Kingdom and the Republic launched invasions of both Halcyon and Aethon. This war quickly engulfed the entirety of the war, with unprecedented levels of death and destruction. The Church of Avism chose to prioritize Aethon, beginning to lose territory on Halcyon. This war would rage of centuries. [/hider] [hider=Fourth Era] [b]4th Era – Space Age[/b] [i]Year 0 of the Fourth Era – (1,000 Years Ago)[/i] Birth of Iridescent Emperor IV, Unification of the Kingdom of Caladrius and Church of Avism, Fall of the Republic, Formal Scientific Discovery of the Shroud. In the capital city of [PLANETARY CAPITAL NAME] Iridescent Emperor IV would be born in Aethon. He would quickly be recognized as head of state of the Church of Avism, and would meet with the Kingdom of Caladrius and convince the King to serve him, due in part to the King of Caladrius being a descendant of Iridescent Emperor II himself. With the Church of Avism and the Kingdom of Caladrius unified they had the required resources to begin to push back the Republic of Sirin. Despite their combined strength the Republic proved effective in slowing their advances. This war would take up the majority of the Iridescent Emperor IV life, with his death occurring shortly after the Fall of the Republic. Before he died, he created a holy book known as [HOLY BOOK NAME] and make massive reformations to the Church of Avism, forming it into what it is known as today. He was responsible for forming the modern planetary government. The holy book he wrote detailed the need for their species to fly among the stars as they did on the planet, and of their divine status. Just as Iridescent Emperor soared above the rest of their species, so too did their species as a whole soar above any other in the universe. Iridescent Emperor IV described a universe in desperate need for the enlightenment only their kind possessed. [i]Year 100 of the Fourth Era – (1,000 Years Ago)[/i] Birth of the Avian Ascendancy, Creation of Spaceship, Formation of Inquisition. The new planetary government known as the Avian Ascendancy declares [PLANETARY CAPITAL] it’s capital. It works to standardize Avism across the planet, rooting out heresy and nonbelievers, specifically in former Republic regions of Sirin and Alkonost. This leads to the creation of the Inquisition. The first spaceships are created based on Republic Airship designs by a brilliant scientist and engineer named Feathers of White. [i]Year 500 of the Fourth Era – (500 Years Ago)[/i] Colonization of the Moon, Advancements made in FTL Travel. Creation, Rebellion, and Banning of AI and Robotics. The Ascendancy struggles with unity until the successful colonization of the moon, the accomplishment serving to cement loyalty and contentment across the home world. It continues to advance technologically, further refining their space ships with FTL capable engines allowing them to leave their star system. Artificial Intelligence is finally not only created but mastered. Robotic Avian begin to revolutionize society, beginning to do the menial labor that the species has a natural aversion to. It gains in knowledge and influence until it has near full control of society. A small sect of the population have been suspicious of the robotic Avians since their inception, and they lead the population in a war against the machines once they eventually rebel. The war is bloody and brutal, but results in a organic Avian victory and the banning of robots and AI. [i]Year 700 of the Fourth Era[/i] - First contact with sentient alien civilizations. Discovery and Mastery of Cloning and Genetic Manipulation. One is a hive mind which has spread to several star systems and seeks additional bio matter to grow ever larger. Though it initially appears that war will erupt between the two, conflict is averted when a deal is struck for the hive mind to be freely given the bio matter of those who resist in the Ascendancy's own expansion. The hive-mind's own fungal-based troops will be used as shock and melee troopers for the Ascendancy's expansion. The other is a hyper-capitalist death-cult mega corporation that relies on both cut throat business practice and fanatical religious devotion to maintain control. A deal is struck with the megacorporation for it to be the primary financial backer of the Ascendancy's expansion, with the stipulation that they will be free to spread their corporate holdings to the entirety of the Ascendancy. Large amounts of resources are thus invested into the Ascendancy. Avian scientists master cloning technology and genetic manipulation. This rocks Avian civilization as it is argued if they have souls or rights. Ultimately it is decided that clones do not have souls or rights, and are thus considered a created underclass for the natural born. [i]Year 900 of the Fourth Era – (100 Years Ago)[/i] Formation of the Five Murders. The Ascendancy uses the massive resource investments to declare the formation of Five Murders, known as the Murders of the East, South, West, North and Center. Formation of the Liberators. The Ascendancy decides to create a formal ground force to land on hostile worlds and civilize their inhabitants. Named the Liberators, they are trained extensively in a variety of modes of warfare though they specialize in ranged combat. [/hider] [hider=Fifth Era] [i]Year 0 of the Fifth Era - [/i] Birth of Iridescent Emperor V. Mass colonization of differing star systems begins. The Avian Ascendancy officially begins it's slow but steady expansion out of it's home system in an attempt to dominate the galaxy. Multiple planets and star systems are terraformed and colonized. Alien worlds are invaded and subjugated. [/hider] [/hider] [hider=Modern Avian Society] [hider=Culture & Religion] Though there have been many different cultures through the millennia, the modern planetary culture is a mixture of Caladrian, Roragian, and Halcyonian. It is important to understand Avis culture is high-context. Subtle words or actions can have astoundingly impactful consequences. Word choice is critical, and hierarchy is crucial. [hider=Avism] Avism is an ancient religion which while it has gone through many different reformations and challenges, it has remained remarkably consistent. It was originally founded by the first Iridescent Emperor who introduced the concept of two great spiritual birds that fought for dominion over the souls of each member of their species. One bird is beneficent and compassionate, wanting to guide their species to their full potential. This primordial force for good is named Garuda. It's counterpart, is a malevolent and corrupt spiritual force that aims to consume the entirety of their species in order to manifest into the physical realm and cause further destruction. This primordial force for evil is named Ziz. After explaining these concepts, the Iridescent Emperor declared himself to be the Avatar of Garuda, who had come to lead the people on the proper path. He explained that those who serve the Iridescent Emperor will, when they die, have their soul absorbed into the Egg of Light, the center of their star system. Those who do not will have their souls eaten by Ziz, further empowering the entity. Every incarnation of the Iridescent Emperor has been easily identifiable by having certain powers and abilities that other Avian did not. Examples of this include telepathy, telekinesis, teleportation, and more. At the time of the original Iridescent Emperor he was the only of his kind to have such capabilities, but with each successor they have become increasingly common, though none have ever been able to come close to matching the sheer power of any of the Iridescent Emperors. [hider=Ziz][img]https://i.pinimg.com/originals/f4/dd/8c/f4dd8ca868a3ad222b69e3da95a3e66f.jpg[/img][/hider] [hider=Garuda][img]https://i.pinimg.com/564x/1c/75/62/1c7562b0a5be2d5275924008a6142f98.jpg[/img][/hider] [hider=Peacock] [img][/img] [/hider] [hider=Tengu Demons, Servants of Ziz] Some disaffected Avian are known to lose faith in Garuda and by extension, the Iridescent Emperor. Those who turn to the worship of Ziz can undergo a ritual to mark themselves are servants of this dark power. This requires the sacrifice of everything the person holds dear, which is different per individual. If done correctly, the Avian undergoes a dark transformation in which they are granted extreme power in accordance to their level of hate and malice, as well as the price of their very soul. They become twisted creatures filled with hatred which cause chaos and mayhem. [img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/7938ac46ae36b724715f08deaa747508/tumblr_pj3cnbeE1U1qzhqwxo1_500.jpg[/img] [img]https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E5-drV0VkAMugje?format=jpg&name=small[/img] [img]https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E5-drVyVcAIfSHI?format=jpg&name=small[/img] [/hider] [/hider] [hider=Caste System] [hider=Parrot] [img]https://i.etsystatic.com/20529956/r/il/25fc9c/1989653235/il_fullxfull.1989653235_l2x5.jpg[/img] Messengers, Scouts, and Ambassadors of the Ascendancy, they are primarily responsible for communication and surveillance among both the Ascendancy and outside forces. Primarily Green of Feather.[/hider] [hider=Owl] [img]https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/612+xAhCWWL._AC_UF1000,1000_QL80_.jpg[/img] Scientists and Academics of the Ascendancy, they are primarily responsible for the advancement and maintenance of Avian technology. Primarily Blue of Feather. [/hider] [hider=Cardinal] [img]https://i.etsystatic.com/5604671/r/il/5e034b/2946220936/il_570xN.2946220936_qknv.jpg[/img] Spiritualists and Priests of the Ascendancy, they are primarily responsible for the upkeep and spread of the religion of Avism. Primarily Red of Feather. [/hider] [hider=Pigeon] [img]https://i.etsystatic.com/20529956/r/il/fe0105/1989656013/il_1140xN.1989656013_iqup.jpg[/img] Some of the lowliest of Ascendancy society, they are little more than slaves who exist to perform menial labor and other lowly tasks. Because of their status, they are the most likely to become Vultures. Primarily Grey of Feather. [/hider] [hider=Eagle] [img]https://i.etsystatic.com/16715433/r/il/709121/1777938785/il_1140xN.1777938785_3gsj.jpg[/img] Warriors and Soldiers of the Ascendancy, they are primarily responsible for both the offensive and defensive martial capabilities of the Ascendancy. Primarily White of Feather. [/hider] [hider=Goose] [img]https://i.etsystatic.com/11926846/r/il/420b3b/1713539907/il_1140xN.1713539907_i5v7.jpg[/img] Merchants and Moneylenders of the Ascendancy, they are responsible for overseeing the financial well being of the state. Primarily Gold of Feather. [/hider] [hider=Stork] [img]https://i.pinimg.com/564x/d6/fb/2e/d6fb2e1f44364431a960b0d6f007f5ae.jpg[/img] (Influences; Geisha & Burlesque) Nicknamed 'Lovebirds'. They are primarily entertainers, artists, and prostitutes. Primarily Pink of feather. [/hider] [hider=Peacock] [img]https://images-wixmp-ed30a86b8c4ca887773594c2.wixmp.com/f/e1a7508b-3f43-43ae-a6d5-9506d1c5e592/da4yiyc-2d046d4b-8df5-49f2-8e04-02be68d85aab.jpg/v1/fill/w_1024,h_919,q_75,strp/peacock_mask_by_silvercicada_da4yiyc-fullview.jpg?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJ1cm46YXBwOjdlMGQxODg5ODIyNjQzNzNhNWYwZDQxNWVhMGQyNmUwIiwiaXNzIjoidXJuOmFwcDo3ZTBkMTg4OTgyMjY0MzczYTVmMGQ0MTVlYTBkMjZlMCIsIm9iaiI6W1t7ImhlaWdodCI6Ijw9OTE5IiwicGF0aCI6IlwvZlwvZTFhNzUwOGItM2Y0My00M2FlLWE2ZDUtOTUwNmQxYzVlNTkyXC9kYTR5aXljLTJkMDQ2ZDRiLThkZjUtNDlmMi04ZTA0LTAyYmU2OGQ4NWFhYi5qcGciLCJ3aWR0aCI6Ijw9MTAyNCJ9XV0sImF1ZCI6WyJ1cm46c2VydmljZTppbWFnZS5vcGVyYXRpb25zIl19.ypUXeZKhuN_bp2L_FGvnFJ-YflULKEzu7n8ktt-kaI4[/img] The ruling Elite of the Ascendancy, they are responsible for overseeing the other Castes and the Ascendancy as a whole. Primarily Iridescent of Feather. [/hider] [hider=Vulture] [img]https://i.etsystatic.com/11926846/r/il/d28c7b/1140816187/il_570xN.1140816187_7uor.jpg[/img] Criminals, Exiles, and Rebels they are everyone who is not a member of one of the other castes, as such they can be of any feather color. Some of them don vulture masks as a form of embracing their status, while others go maskless in defiance of the Ascendancy. [/hider] [/hider] [/hider] [hider=Political Parties] [i]War Hawks[/i] - Currently 30% of the population are politically affiliated with the War Hawks political party, the dominant political force in the Ascendancy. It is closely affiliated with the dominant religion of the planet, Avism. It believes in Avian supremacy, imperial expansion, and colonialism. [i]Peace Doves[/i] - Currently 10% of the population are politically affiliated with the Peace Doves political party. The party holds many radical beliefs such as secularism, egalitarianism, and anti-imperialism and colonialism. Considered to be a major potential threat to the Ascendancy, they are fiercely monitored and controlled. [i]Middle Chickens[/i] - Currently 60% of the population are politically affiliated with the Chicken political party, which is comprised of pragmatists and centrists who hold no strong beliefs and simply operate based on what is most advantageous. Because the War Hawks currently hold political influence and power, the Chickens follow their leadership. [/hider] [hider=V.I.P's of the Ascendancy] [hider=Artists Portrait of Iridescent Emperor V] The current and fifth incarnation of the Avatar of Garuda as well as the Emperor of the Ascendancy, his word is law. He was raised by Owls. [img]https://i.redd.it/z6ry56hovo661.jpg[/img][/hider] [hider=The Iridescent Peacock] The leading religious figure of Avism, she is of the Peacock caste. Considered to be the most beautiful and pious of all living beings besides the Iridescent Emperor, it is her responsibility to lead the people spiritually and religiously when the Emperor is busy with other affairs of state such as general governance. [img]https://64.media.tumblr.com/ad935c0dba3f650c6ea8c79ce40dc012/32da1e5afb843415-fb/s540x810/11d52a1da8fefc99c242a800574f5712a6a115f5.pnj[/img][/hider] [hider=The Golden Goose] Head of their Caste and a member of the Ascendant Council. [/hider] [hider=The Blue Owl] Head of their Caste and a member of the Ascendant Council. [/hider] [hider=The White Eagle] Head of their Caste and a member of the Ascendant Council. [/hider] [hider=The Green Parrot] Head of their Caste and a member of the Ascendant Council. [/hider] [hider=The Grey Pigeon] Head of their Caste and a member of the Ascendant Council. [/hider] [hider=The Pink Stork] Head of their Caste and a member of the Ascendant Council. [/hider] [/hider] [/hider] [hider=Ascendancy Military Forces] [hider=Murders of the Ascendancy] A Murder is the Ascendancy's term for a Naval Battlegroup. [i]Murder of the North[/i] - Ascendancy Murder Commander (AMC) Plume of Red is assigned to the overall military management of the Northern Expansion portion of the Ascendancy's Sphere of Expansion. [i]Murder of the West[/i] - Ascendency Murder Commander (AMC) Eyes of Ivory is assigned to the overall military management of the Western Expansion portion of the Ascendancy's Sphere of Expansion. [i]Murder of the East[/i] - Ascendancy Murder Commander (AMC) Claws of Black is assigned to the overall military management of the Eastern Expansion portion of the Ascendancy's Sphere of Expansion. [i]Murder of the South[/i] - Ascendancy Murder Commander (AMC) Plume of Green is assigned to the overall military management of the Southern Expansion portion of the Ascendancy's Sphere of Expansion. [i]Murder of the Center[/i] - Ascendancy Murder Commander (AMC) Wings of Blue is assigned to the unique task of overseeing the overall military management of the core central areas of the Ascendancy, including their home world the Egg of Life. [/hider] [hider=Spacecraft Model Types] [hider=Corvette] Spacecraft that is designed to accommodate only a single occupant, the pilot, they are primarily used for scouting and reconnaissance assignments. They can be effective in military engagements en mass when used to swarm an opponent. This is also the most common type of criminal spacecraft. Because of the resources required to build these ships, they are limited to 100 per Murder. [img]https://i.imgur.com/NG9axTM.jpeg[/img][/hider] [hider=Destroyer] Spacecraft that is designed to accommodate a group of five occupants, the pilot, an officer, a gunner, a engineer, and a communications specialist. They work in smaller groups than Corvette's, but are more heavily armed and armored. Because of the resources required to build these ships, they are limited to 50 per Murder. [img]https://i.imgur.com/atwTf0i.jpeg[/img][/hider] [hider=Cruiser] Spacecraft that is designed to accommodate a crew of several dozen Avian. It is further still armed and armored, able to withstand a relatively decent amount of damage. This is the first spacecraft designed with the capability of being a troop transport. Because of the amount of resources required to build these ships, they are limited to 25 per Murder. [img]https://i.imgur.com/wbAcvpo.jpeg[/img] [/hider] [hider=Battleship] Spacecraft that is designed to accommodate a crew of a hundred Avian. It is armed and armored to the point of being able to destroy a moon using sustained fire of it's primary gun. It is the first spacecraft designed to be able to transport not just soldiers but also Destroyer's and Corvette's. Because of the amount of resources required to build these ships, they are limited to 10 per Murder. [img]https://i.imgur.com/JO9PlX5.jpeg[/img] [/hider] [hider=Titan] Truly one of the Jewel's of the Ascendancy's fleet, these ships require crews of several hundred Avian. These ships are so heavily armed and armored that they have the capability of being able to destroy entire planets using sustained fire from their primary weapons. Because of the massive amount of resources required to build these ships, they are limited in number to 3 per Murder. [img]https://preview.redd.it/557adfdv9yp41.png?width=800&format=png&auto=webp&s=4cf36c30f33a61be16872d9732dd9fcb3e64568f[/img] [/hider] [hider=Juggernaut] The largest and most powerful of the Ascendancy's fleet, these ships are absolutely massive. These ships are so heavily armed and armored that they have the capability of being able to destroy entire suns using sustained fire from their primary weapons. These ships are so massive that they are capable of being self-sufficient and having their own internal recyclable ecosystems. Because of the massive amount of resources required to build these ships, they are limited in number to 1 per Murder. [img]https://preview.redd.it/zq5n0qmv9yp41.png?width=800&format=png&auto=webp&s=3896ee001c756dca341d19a5cd730051de72a099[/img] [/hider] [/hider] [hider=The Liberators] Ascendancy Liberation Commander (ALC) Claws of Silver [img]https://images-wixmp-ed30a86b8c4ca887773594c2.wixmp.com/f/10cce308-80f3-445b-ba8c-e5657b459c5a/d50hfek-f955abb0-d5cc-4f35-993c-314abedd83a2.png?token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJzdWIiOiJ1cm46YXBwOjdlMGQxODg5ODIyNjQzNzNhNWYwZDQxNWVhMGQyNmUwIiwiaXNzIjoidXJuOmFwcDo3ZTBkMTg4OTgyMjY0MzczYTVmMGQ0MTVlYTBkMjZlMCIsIm9iaiI6W1t7InBhdGgiOiJcL2ZcLzEwY2NlMzA4LTgwZjMtNDQ1Yi1iYThjLWU1NjU3YjQ1OWM1YVwvZDUwaGZlay1mOTU1YWJiMC1kNWNjLTRmMzUtOTkzYy0zMTRhYmVkZDgzYTIucG5nIn1dXSwiYXVkIjpbInVybjpzZXJ2aWNlOmZpbGUuZG93bmxvYWQiXX0.floAp-ulR4u6C32e4ftThS483EKzFXhhxWRJfxXayeU[/img] Each unit within the Liberators consists of 90% vat grown clones that are indoctrinated into They have shortened lifespans in comparison to their natural born kin, living only 70 to 80 years. They have been genetically programmed to have minimal emotional responses, and are indoctrinated towards self sacrifice. A small contingent of natural born officers leads each cloned unit, allowing for much more time and training to be focused on them. [/hider] [hider=Agents Crow & Raven] Raven [img]https://cdna.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/013/535/786/large/zack-castro-kenkucolorfixweb2.jpg?1540054043[/img] Crow [img]https://i.pinimg.com/564x/81/ca/df/81cadf7ed122bc80a4df75d48ca1488d.jpg[/img] A duo of elite instruments of the Ascendancy that have performed numberless classified missions on behalf of the Iridescent Emperor. Raven specializes in stealth and agility, while Crow specializes in more direct methods of engagement such as explosives. They are the go to team for delicate operations. [/hider] [/hider] [hider=The Shroud] Though they do not understand the true inner workings of it, it has been confirmed by the Avians that there is a supernatural realm overlayed upon the current material reality. It is believed that this realm is where both Garuda and Ziz exist. The original Iridescent Emperor was the first Avian to come into contact with this realm. As time went on however, other Avian began being born with these abilities as well. Originally it only spread to his fellow Peacocks before eventually spreading to the entirety of the species. [img]https://i.pinimg.com/originals/3d/e3/d6/3de3d62dd9f7b318fdd4ce1c98516a2d.jpg[/img] [/hider] [/hider]