Two hundred years ago humanity lived on a singular planet known as (Prime) Earth. Humanity would have their first encounter with an alien then; a microbe brought by a meteor that destroyed an entire city and began poisoning the air. Nations came together, knowing that they would have to work together or all die. Ship-construction for space-exploration began, with the construction of FTL (Faster-Than-Light) technology being developed as well. Once the first five vessels were assembled the greatest minds on Earth were sent aboard with the mission of colonizing planets suitable for human life, and terraforming planets that weren’t. The mission was an ultimate success, and with newfound research and technology, was able to cure humanity and save Prime Earth. Humans now serve as a powerhouse within the galaxy, despite being one of the youngest species to exist. This brings us here, to the modern day:
The crew of the Stellar Horizon, a state-of-the-art exploration vessel, is tasked with investigating a strange anomaly detected deep within the uncharted regions of space. This anomaly, known only as “The Echo,” is a mysterious phenomenon that has baffled scientists and stargazers for decades. It emits inexplicable signals, seemingly a distress call, originating from a region previously thought to be devoid of life and technological presence.
The Stellar Horizon’s mission is simple: Travel to “The Echo’s” coordinates, investigate the source, and report findings.
Humanity - Human History provided above. A powerhouse in the galaxy, with rapid-breeding and quick innovations, humans can now be found on almost every corner of the galaxy explored.
Telepaths - An inexplicable, convergent, evolution that appears in many races amongst the galaxy. In humanity, telepathic abilities can emerge at any-given day and time. Basic telepathy abilities include reading surface thoughts upon touch, as well as communicating non-verbally so long as no physical barriers are in the way. As such, they are highly vulnerable to sensory deprivation and overloads such as bright flashes or sudden loud noises. Telepaths can train to further enhance their powers and unlock new ones, such as Telekinesis.
Most telepaths in human colonies are met with general disdain, with stereotypes ranging from invasions of privacy and manipulation. It wouldn’t be uncommon for a Telepath to go missing or be found hurt somewhere, with no questions asked.
FTL (Faster Than Light) - Humanity’s primary form of traversing space. Despite the name, the light-speed barrier is still in full effect. FTL technology accelerates ships up to the speed of light, before taking stored energy and creating wormholes between two sets of coordinates.
ExoGenesis - A company known for their long-haul space freighters, ExoGenesis has made a name for themselves in the past ten years regarding their new tenures into space-exploration. Recently, they uncoded one of “The Echo” signals and charted a course for their crew, continuing to take steps being the major conglomerate of all space factions.
Interstellar Exploration Federation - One of humanity’s first space-exploration companies that stood the test of time and controversies. The biggest of them all, even if they aren’t as innovative as they used to be, they have the most pull in the industry. In recent years they’ve leaned more towards developing space-weapons and mimicking anti-gravity technology.
With an emphasis on autonomy, adaptability, and scientific discovery, this ship is equipped to explore uncharted star systems, engage in scientific research, and ensure the safety of its crew for extended missions. Its sleek design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, combining cutting-edge technology with elegant curves. Powered by a multi-phase hyperdrive engine, the Stellar Horizon utilizes faster-than-light technology, allowing it to cover vast distances in a matter of days or weeks, ensuring long-term energy independence even while exploring the furthest reaches of space. For precise maneuvering within planetary systems or during exploration of asteroid belts, the ship is equipped with highly efficient ion thrusters that minimize fuel consumption while maximizing accuracy.
The ship's internal gravity is controlled by graviton stabilizers, ensuring a stable, Earth-like environment across all decks, allowing for normal movement during missions. The ship is equipped with an advanced life support system that can filter air, recycle water, and maintain temperature regulation. It also has a botanical garden and algae tanks for growing fresh food for the crew. The crew quarters are tailored for their specific comfort on long voyages, the Stellar Horizons also includes a communal dining area, gym, and virtual recreation rooms.
The command center is equipped with a holographic interface that projects star maps, mission objectives, and system diagnostics in real-time. It allows the captain and crew to interact with the ship’s systems via intuitive touch or voice commands.
The ship has a multi-functional scanner array capable of deep space scanning, planet composition analysis, and detecting anomalies. Equipped with the latest in xenobiology technology, the medical bay allows the crew to study alien life forms, plants, and microorganisms. It includes automated sample collection tools and an AI-powered diagnostic system to help identify potential hazards or breakthroughs. The medical bay is equipped with a full range of diagnostic and treatment tools, including stasis tubes and two isolation rooms. Several robotics are mounted onto the wall to assist in surgeries and experiments.
The Stellar Horizon has plasma shields capable of absorbing energy from incoming attacks and dispersing it across the hull. These shields can be raised in moments of danger, but they deplete energy reserves, so their use is carefully calculated. While primarily a scientific vessel, the Stellar Horizon is equipped with pulse cannons capable of firing concentrated bursts of energy to deter hostile encounters or disable enemy vessels. For avoiding potential threats or unwanted attention, the Stellar Horizon has a stealth mode that cloaks its energy signature and minimizes its visibility to scanners.
Captain Amara West: Overseeing the ship's operations, making tough decisions, and maintaining morale. The Captain is the face of authority, mediating conflicts, and representing the crew in diplomatic situations.
Orion (Operational Resource and Intelligence Online Network): This AI is an advanced onboard system that is an integral part of the ship’s operations providing assistance with navigation, data analysis, and even psychological support.
Science Officer Eagin McDorrel: The ship's resident expert on research, discovery, and understanding of alien technologies, ecosystems, and phenomena. Responsible for the health and well-being of the crew, often dealing with both physical injuries and mental health issues.
Engineer PROXIMA: The technical expert who ensures the ship’s systems stay operational, including propulsion, weapons, and life support.
Pilot: Responsible for piloting the ship, navigating space, and handling any space combat or evasive maneuvers. They handle smaller crafts such as shuttles and drones as well.
Security Officer Edward Sherling: Responsible for the safety of the crew and the ship, including dealing with threats both internal and external.
Communications Officer Lawrence Williams: Handles all ship-to-ship communication and coordinates with other space stations, colonies, or ships.
Linguistics Expert Verna Amaryllis
Cargo Officer Ken Toghon
*Alternative roles can be provided if more interest is shown*
ExoGenesis CEO Zara Solstice - A visionary who believes humanity’s future lies in the Echo Region and willing to take any means necessary to make sure his company gets there first. Known for pulling off daring deals and outmaneuvering competitors, Zara never lets his smile falter nor the joy in his voice as he portrays a playful nature. Zara blends boundless optimism with charm, so much so that his passive-aggressive words are almost glossed over.
Intelligence Officer Lucien Nyx - With a gaze always calculating and analyzing, Lucien stands with an air of self-assuredness regardless of what he’s doing. Lucien dresses in tailored-suits but wears a smirk that often suggests he knows more than he’s letting on. Confidence bordering on smugness, it’s never overwhelming but more an acknowledgment to his own intellect and knack for reading people. He has an effortless way of getting others to divulge information, and can be described as ‘moody’ or ‘terrifying’ by those directly under his command.
Prime Earth - The original earth, much similar to the one we live in now just with better technology. Prime Earth is the most protected and supported human colony. Many factions' main HQ are located here, as well as many production companies. Most humans here live relatively peaceful lives with minimal alien interaction.
Zephyria - While completely identical to Prime Earth, its mass and size is significantly larger with gravity 1.5 times that of Earth. It’s significantly challenging for humans to live without advanced technology to assist with mobility and daily tasks.
Astrid - A frigid world, with surface temperatures averaging around -50°C. Astrid is rich in valuable resources despite the inhospitable surface such as ice oceans, vast glaciers, and month-long snowstorms. Subterranean cities were built here, using advanced technologies to tap into the ocean's resources and create stable living environments. The frozen water reserves, methane, and rare minerals are vital fuel and life-support systems for other colonies.
Verdi - Dense jungles, towering trees, and vibrant ecosystems. Verdi’s thick atmosphere is rich in oxygen, and it supports a vast array of plant and animal life, many of which are completely alien to Earth’s ecosystems. Human habitation is restricted to floating cities built high above the jungles, as the surface below can be dangerous due to massive predators and difficult terrain. These cities use advanced magnetic levitation to hover above the forests, harnessing natural resources from the surrounding environment. The planet's high biodiversity makes it a prime location for biological and ecological studies, as researchers work to create new forms of medicine and bioengineering.
Luna Nova - Luna Nova orbits a gas giant with its moons mostly low-gravity. Human colonies float in large platforms tethered to the moon’s surface, taking advantage of the low gravitational pull to build expansive sky cities. The planet experiences constant and beautiful electromagnetic storms in its upper atmosphere, producing breathtaking auroras while being harnessed for energy.
Xera - Xera is tidally locked to its sun, with one side of the planet always facing the sun, while the other side is in perpetual darkness. The dark side is frozen and barren, the light side experiencing extreme heat. The planet is rich in rare metals and minerals. Many people experiencing hardships come to this planet to work in the mines as a last-resort. It’s almost unheard of for someone to get off the planet unless in the delivery service, but at least the pay is good.
Humanity is colonized on almost every habitable planet in the known galaxy, so feel free to make your own or ride with one of these for an origin spot.
Posting Expectations?: I’m not a hard-ass on this as everyone has lives. I’m looking for committed players who don’t mind a slow-burn-esque roleplay. I currently work four days in a row, ten hours, with other life commitments so I understand if writing can’t be a top priority. Collaborations between players are heavily encouraged here, and those take time. As long as we’re moving at a healthy rate, I have no problems as I prefer quality over quantity. Once a week may be a minimum if we’re moving the story along, but once again, I’m not a hard-ass.
Can I Die?: In this game, anything is possible. I’m not looking for this to be a slaughter-fest, but this is a deep-space cosmic horror exploration game. Actions have consequences, and that’s what makes it a fun and interesting narrative.
Humans Only?: Sadly, yes. I considered allowing alien races, but for the narrative set, I think humans or majority humans works best for now. ExoGenesis is an Earth based company with the motto, "Seeding the Future, Evolving Humanity Beyond the Stars." after all. I’m not above allowing an exception, however, but it would have to be very convincing and well-written. (Telepath is fine)
Your Q&A didn’t answer my question!: Feel free to ask here or PM me. Otherwise, just use common sense. We’ve all RPed before so no need to state the obvious no godmodding, breaking site rules, etc.
Once again, my CS isn't pretty. Feel free to customize at will, as long as the necessary information is provided.
Name/Callsign: [Full Name/Alias]
Appearance: [A picture or text description will suffice here]
Age: [25+]
Gender: [M/F/NB]
Race: [Human or Telepath]
Role: [See Crew Roles]
Biography: [History + Personality + What blacklisted you]
Traits: (These are custom made abilities specific to your character ranging from physical skills, to higher-powered weapons and technologies, and unique Telepathic skills beyond surface level. These can be upgraded later on)
Trait 1: Trait 2: Trait 3: Trait 4: Trait 5:
Equipment List: (Extra things you’d like to emphasis)
Name/Callsign: Amara West ‘Captain’ ‘Sir’ Appearance: Amara’s posture exudes confidence as she stands at five-nine with a toned, athletic build. Her warm, light brown eyes compliments her similar skin-tone as they reflect determination and intelligence. Her dark, curly, hair is generally styled into a tight-bun in the back of her head with the occasional curl escaping to frame her face. The curl tends to reach the top of the faded scar on her right cheek, that stretches all the way down to her neck that she tends to hide with her uniform. A dark navy space captain uniform, with silver accents complimented by the utility belt across her waist with multiple tools and a hidden weapon. Age: 31 Gender: Female Race: Human Role: Captain
Biography: Amara West was once a rising star within the Interstellar Exploration Federation. She quickly climbed the ranks due to her tactical brilliance and unshakable resolve, serving with distinction. Her career would take a sudden, mysterious, nosedive when she was blacklisted from multiple space companies. The official reports state she was responsible for a mission going catastrophically wrong, evident by her scars and lack of crew. Now, she’s captain of a new crew and determined to get back at the IEF by successfully carving a new role within ExoGenesis. (You can learn more by interacting)
Traits:
Gift of Gab: Amara has a way with words, and as such, diplomacy. Amara has a higher chance of talking herself out of bad situations, and has a higher chance of succeeding with negotiations in Stellar Horizon’s favor.
Jump For Joy!: Amara has a tailor-made jet-pack designed for faster equip, suitable for her or anyone near her size.
OR-9: A holographic wrist device that allows for remote control of the ship’s systems, as well as encrypted communication.
Plasma Blaster: A modified plasma-baster with high precision. Nothing too fancy, but can practically hurt anyone if regular bullets are ineffective.
Experience: Amara is a highly-experienced Captain that has acquired more-than-appropriate leadership and navigation skills, as well as knowledge of alien tech, due to her time in the IEF.
Let me know if there's anything I need to edit ^-^
Chosen Name/Callsign: Verna Amaryllis, 'Snake'
Ex-Assigned Codename: T-Z13: Ophiuchus
Age: 39
Gender: Female
Race: Telepath
Role: Linguistics Expert
Biography: Ophiuchus was abducted as a child and brought into a top secret facility to be trained in the art of assassination. She had little to no memories of her childhood, her home, and even her family. Along with the other orphans, she was taught how to kill at a young age. The children also had gifts on their own: they were Telepaths, able to read minds and communicate through thoughts alone. They were molded to become the perfect killing machines, eradicating those that got in the way of the mysterious order they were working for.
They all lived in bunkers with cameras in all corners of their shared room, monitoring their movements so their masters could act swiftly upon the slightest hint of a rebellion brewing. Their abductors were merciless in their trainings and discipline. Even though they knew the children could read their minds, they weren't shy in letting them know how much they despise the Telepaths. Most even took great joy in discipline, but there will always be those that were too... impossible. Those that were deemed to be 'not suitable for work' anymore will be taken through the Grey Door, and those of them that were brought through the Door never came back.
Their numbers dwindled as the years went by until only a quarter of them were left from their original batch. Ophiuchus was the best amongst them. Not only did she have the highest success rate out of her peers, she was also the most gifted Telepath of them all. Ophiuchus would've continued to become the galaxy's most lethal killer, if not for one minor slip-up.
Little was known about her last mission but rumors spread about Ophiuchus failing to assess the area before finishing her target. It was unknown, with even an assassin of Ophiuchus' calibre, if she either grew too confident to forget to accomplish such a small detail or she got completely blind-sided. Either way, a slip-up of this major meant she was being brought through the Grey Door and be gone for good. Ophiuchus even fully surrendered to her fate until a man posing as a scientist managed to help her escape.
Now with the help of this man, Ophiuchus was given the opportunity to join the ExoGenesis as the crew's linguistics expert. Here, she was given another chance in life to right her wrongs by using her skills and abilities as a Telepath to forge meaningful relationships with other beings, along with providing aid to decipher unknown languages. She was even given the freedom to pick a new name for herself: Verna Amaryllis.
Traits:
Psychic Trickery - On top of her Telepathic prowess, Verna's unique ability is to appear like someone else in front of her target. She can alter their minds to trick their eyes and even ears to make her look and sound like completely someone else.
Killer Instincts - Verna is professionally trained to efficiently dispose of her target in many different ways and use her environment to her advantage.
The Hunt is On - The mission is the only thing that matters Verna will see to it that it gets accomplished as efficiently as possible no matter the cost.
Stone-Cold Heart - Verna has learned never to let her emotions get the best of her, and she has succeeded for the most part.
Serpens- It is the name Verna gave to her retractable whip which is capable of conducting huge amounts of electricity when triggered.
First IC post is up! Thank you all for remaining patient while the two weeks of OT was kicking my ass. Each room is individually tailored to each character so feel free to describe your character's room to your heart's content. Each room has more than enough space for whatever you have in mind, so go crazy.
@Expllo When Amara says occupation -- does that mean our role on the ship? Getting a reply ready ASAP. Posting might be irregular the next few weeks, hope that's ok. Somebody in my family passed. Still committed to this though.
@ErosSense Yes, that’s correct! And no worries, we’ve all been busy lately but that’s fine because we like a slower pacer around here. Take care of everything you need to, I send my love to you and your family.
