Giggilyomeromicon
08-09-2006, 3:45 PM
There was only darkness and silence. These two things are all that had been for longer then anyone could remember. Suddenly, something clicked. A few lights flickered, and turned on. A low hum enveloped the room, and slowly started to grow louder. Soon, the lights spread to other rooms and hallways of the ship. The lights spread into a large chamber. In this chamber was a device. A Hyperspace Core. The lights on the Core slowly started to activated, and soon the hum inside the ship turning into a whine. After thousands and thousands of years being dormant, the core awoke. Outside in the darkness of space, the ship’s exterior lights slowly flickered to life. All around it a similar scene on a smaller scale was commencing. Small and large ships alike started to hum, the drone of engines filling the empty space. The fleet of Reclamation had awoken.
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They had been cast out. They had been shamed. Their once great glory had been stolen, and they knew who was responsible for the crime. The Exiles, the Kushan, the Hiigarans. They were the reason they were stuck on this world, and they were going to pay for what they had done. Being driven by a need for Vengeance, they slowly colonized the desolate world they were on. This deserted world however, was rich in a valuable mineral however. They stockpiled this, knowing it was useless to them at this stage. Many years passed, and they had finally reached the level of technology needed to leave their planet.
They activated one of the few relics they had from their previous lives, and activated a distress beacon, knowing what it would bring. Soon enough Turanic Raiders arrived, looking for a damaged ship to scavenge. What they found however, was a tempting offer. The mineral that had been stockpiled was used as bribery, and the Raiders accepted the bribe. They went in search of ships that had been abandoned, and returned them to their client’s Homeworld. They knew that the offered material was worth more than these outdated relics, and left the planet and its inhabitants to their fate. The hulks and relics were soon repaired, and the civilization was able to operate in space. They mined the needed recourses using improvised hulks, and slowly started construction of a single Station in orbit.
Now, many years later, they have an empire. Many planets have fallen under their rule through conquest and colonization, and the once mighty Vaygr have been assimilated. The Turanic Raiders see them as masters. This empire is still but a shell of its once great ancestor, and its inhabitants know this. They know who was to blame, and they knew what the answer is. They are going to have vengeance.
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“Of course you want to know what it was like. To be a starship the size of a city, to hold an entire race in your hands. To tear time and space apart, to experience pain and potential beyond the grasp of any mere flesh. You know that language can’t begin to convey the feeling, but you think maybe it was a little like being God. And you’re right. It was like being some deformed, twisted God trapped in Hell.”
Many generations have passed since the Exiles arrived at Hiigara. Many more after the Eye of Aarran was opened. And many more after that, during the golden age of S’jet. That age however, has come and gone. S’jet is on her deathbed, and the Empire is without a leader. Sajuuk once again drifting empty through space. The empire is in anarchy, and S’jet’s health is rapidly deteriorating.
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“Roger that, docking in bay 15. Nalvesi out.”
With that said, Nalvesi closed the com link to IGSC. He looked back up from the Com system, and watched the Inter-Galactic Shipping Control’s docking bay 15 slowly consume the view from the main window. Gradually, the freighter’s speed reduced to the point where it was barely moving. Clamps from the hanger’s floor rose up and latched onto the hull of the Nebalese’s Dream, holding it in place as a refueling tube connected with the port side of the ship.
“Do you ever think they’re gona' get automated docking systems for these things?” asked Nalvesi’s co-pilot.
“Doubtful. That’s the only thing a pilot really needs to do these days, if they got auto docking these ships could fly themselves.”
“Hey, some already d-” Nalvesi’s co-pilot was interrupted by the automated docking message.
“Freighter Nebalese’s Dream, welcome to the IGSC. Please remain in position until the refueling is complete.”
During the silence that followed the message and the time it would take for the refueling to complete, Nalvesi replayed the conversation he just had with his co-pilot in his head. Automated freighters were a better investment. They took less man power, and could fly for longer periods of time without needing to refuel, and they were more energy efficient. The future did not look bright for a Freighter captain.
No, the future did not look bright at all. Kareen S’jet was dying, along with half the empire. She was the one who was holding it all together. With her gone, the Empire was sure to break off into separate factions, and the galaxy would be like it was 200 years prior to now. The only reason it was still holding on now was because of how shocked everyone was that The Great Keeper could possibly die. And now it seemed all good things were coming to an end.
“Refueling complete. You may now leave the station.”
The clamps that had previously been holding the ship in place slowly started to release. Suddenly, a voice started playing over the Com system.
“Unidentified ships, you have entered Hiigaran space. Please transmit identification or turn back. I repeat, unidentified ships, you have entered Hiigaran space. Please transmit identification or turn back.”
“Negative Hiigara. We are not turning back, nor are we surrendering. See this as an official declaration of war. Prepare yourselves.”
The Nebalese’s Dream started the automated launch sequence from the station, pushing it out of the relative safety provided by the IGSC. Nalvesi brought the ship around, so that it was facing the exit of the hanger. In front of him, he saw a wave of smaller craft closing in on his freighter. A wave of missiles erupted from the closest ones, heading straight for his freighter.
“Shit.”
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“Earlier today, a surprise attack was launched at the IGSC station, near the Eye of Arran.
The attack left the station destroyed, along with every vessel in the surrounding area. We received the following message:”
“People of Hiigara, your time has expired. View the actions of this day as but a warning, for the real attacks are about to begin.”
“We have identified this signal to have originated from a world in the unknown region of space. Their craft have also been identified as a cross between the old Vaygr military ships, and the ancient Taiidani craft. The threat presented by this is unrivaled by what we have seen in recent years. The Mothership Matron of Hiigara has been sent to a distress beacon coming from a sector near the Eye.”
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Taiidani ships:
STRIKECRAFT:
Interceptor/Scout: All we have gathered from intelligence is that these craft are responsible for scouting the enemy in small groups, then gathering into a larger horde to annihilate the enemy. They are not capable of Short Range jumps. Instead, these are docked on the Support Frigates and transported to the battlefield. They have two auto-canons, one on either side of the craft. Its engine capabilities appear to match our own. These fighters are deployed as escorts, raiders, and Space Superiority fighters.
Missile Interceptor: Using the same chassis as their interceptor, the Taiidani military forces have replaced the canons on the Interceptor with a Cluster-Missile launcher located underneath the craft. Because of the size and weight of these weapons, the speed of this fighter has been slowed considerably. Also, the rate of reloading on these vessels is tediously slow. It takes nearly 15 seconds for a reload, so these craft generally attack in swarms. They are effective against Frigates, and Capital Ships.
CORVETTE:
Gun Corvette: Using a much larger and heavier chassis then the Interceptor, the Gun Corvette's only weapon is a capitol class MAC gun, with a reload time of 5 seconds. This weapon is the core of the craft, with the rest of it built around it. These ships' engines are capable of propelling it at the same speeds as the Missile Interceptor. These vessels are effective against Frigates and Capitol ships. The Taiidani Corvettes also make use of Stolen Short-Jump Technology.
Laser Corvette: Using the same build, chassis, and engines as the Gun Corvette, this ship's only difference is its weapon. It has a Pulsar Canon onboard, instead of a MAC gun. The Canon is capable of destroying fighters and other Corvettes with ease. It's reload time is 5 seconds.
Command Corvette: A corvette with no weapons. It is much faster, and has more armor on it then the regular models. While one is in the area, expect a higher performance of Taiidani tactics.
FRIGATES:
Assault Frigate: The Taiidani equivalent of the Hiigaran assault frigate. Its weapons consist of 6 MAC turrets, all mounted near the front of the ship. Midway are 6 Missile tubes, capable of firing at a rate of 1 missile every five seconds. Beyond that is the bridge, followed by the engines. This vessel is the most common frigate in the enemy’s fleet. It’s capable of taking down corvettes, Frigates, and destroyers if there are enough of them. However, the MAC turrets and missiles are slow enough to make them nearly useless against Strikecraft enemies. The assault Frigate is equipped with Short Jump technology.
Point Defense Frigate: The Taiidani response to the Counselor, the PDF is capable of destroying entire squadrons of fighters and bombers. With 5 Auto-fire canons, and the ability to maneuver like a corvette, the PDF is the best Anti-Fighter vessel in the Taiidani navy. The engines on this ship make it nearly half as fast as a Corvette. It also has the stolen Short Jump, along with all of the other Taiidani Frigates and Capital ships.
Torpedo Frigate: During the post Vaygr war Era (also known as the romantic era) many of the Hiigaran Torpedo Frigates were abandoned due to their inability to compete with the new generations of ships. It’s unknown how the Taiidani acquired one, but they have. Mounted on their standard Frigate hull are three Torpedo Tubes, each of them capable of firing cluster torpedoes, which break apart before hitting anything smaller then a Frigate. These three tubes are capable of firing 1 torpedo every 5 seconds. Alone, this vessel is an easy target for Strikecraft and Corvettes, but in a large group these crafts are very dangerous. They are effective against Corvettes, Frigates, and Capitol ships.
Support Frigate: This craft is used to refuel, reload, and repair strike craft in the field. It is also used as a transportation system for the fighter class ships. It can store up to 10 at a time, and has the ability to make many short range jumps without docking or receiving more fuel/battery power.
Capital ships:
Destroyer: The Taiidani destroyer is the backbone of one of their capital phalanxes. With 8 torpedo tubes, 3 MAC turrets, and an Ion Beam turret, this vessel is a formidable opponent. Their destroyer’s speed is a little under half of that of their frigates, making it the third slowest ship in their fleet. However, this ship is no match for our current model.
Carrier: The Taiidan rely heavily on their mobile carrier forces. These ships are light, cheap, and expandable. A production facility with paper thin armor and engines. All Taiidani carriers are able to build anything smaller then a Capital Ship. Their defenses consist of several Anti-Strikecraft guns. Its barely slower then one of their destroyers.
Battle Cruiser: The Taiidan version of the Eminent, this ship is by far the most powerful vessel fielded today. With 4 Ion Beam turrets, 4 MAC turrets, and 6 Torpedo tubes make this the ship that can easily destroy anything we have. Fortunately, these are not widely fielded, and are generally used to defend Shipyards and to launch attacks on high priority targets. It is the slowest ship in their navy, its speed matching our Battle Cruiser.
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Hiigaran Navy:
Chaplain-Class Scout: The basic principle of a scout fighter has remained mostly unchanged since the first was created at the beginning of the Homeworld War. Utilizing lighter armor and a yet bigger engine, technicians have improved many aspects of the Scout that saw service against the Vaygr. Because of the advances made in armor design and composition, the Chaplain retains all the armor value of the previous versions at about two-thirds the weight. A larger engine module also creates a massive boost in speed in comparison to older Scouts. Also, the newest Chaplain introduces something not seen in any previous fighter: A micro-hyperspace module. This allows nearly infinite scouting capability. Care should be used though, as the module can only provide a portal several times before running out of energy. Even so, this is the most advanced scout design to date. Similar modules are now being used in all fighters, corvettes, and frigates of the Hiigaran Navy. Armament remains comparatively light, and it comes equipped with but a single fixed auto cannon.
Saber-Class Interceptor: The Saber is the latest and greatest standard fighter of the Hiigaran navies. The famous and ultimately highly successful Interceptor that was used in the time of Vaygr War was all but completely surpassed by a series of technological advances in the subsequent years after the end of that conflict. Perhaps the greatest advantage the Saber has over all other modern fighters is a micro-hyper drive that supplements the standard engines of the craft. While allowing a much shorter jump than a carrier, this allows squadrons of fighters to extend their range and strike area. While aesthetically resembling the Interceptor of old, the Saber also includes a series of advanced engines and new plasteel armor the makes it faster and harder to kill. Replacing the fixed Kinetic Auto gun under the nose is a semi-flexible, three barreled cannon capable of excessively high rates of fire. Adding to this firepower is that it has the ability to pivot five degrees in any direction. This gives the weapon greater accuracy. All together, the Saber is an excellent new fighter and does the Hiigaran Navy proud.
Counselor-Class Bomber: Ships designed for delivering bomb loads have been a staple in space faring nations for as long as sub-light drives have been around, and they remain quite similar despite greater advances in technology. The Counselor is the newest Bomber created by the Hiigaran scientists for the Navy. The same armor used on the Saber-Class Interceptor is also utilized on the Counselor for excellent protection. New, more efficient engine modules have also been installed to provide a much needed increase in speed. Even so, the Counselor remains the slowest fighter-class vessel and needs protection from enemy fighters. Fixed firing forward is a pair of high tech particle accelerator discharged that launch a compact ball of energy that can penetrate most modern and all previous armor types. Also, a much needed defensive measure has been taken. An auto-tracking, single barreled kinetic cannon has been mounted in a top turret firing to the rear to help discourage fighters from pouncing on this vessels. The Counselor has already proven its battlefield value and will remain in constant production for years to come.
CORVETTES:
Airy-Class Light Corvette: Light Corvettes have always been a staple in space going nations. The Airy-class is a call back to the Cavalier of the Homeworld War, the same vessels that fell into dis-use after the conclusion of the Homeworld campaign. They have since come back into use as long range patrol craft and escorts for larger vessels. The Airy even aesthetically resembles the Cavalier, but the similarity ends there. As opposed to a single gun turret, the Airy sports a pair of Medium Projectile weapons, mounted dorsally and ventrally. It also boasts increased speed and armor over previous Light Corvettes. Utilizing a crew of three, it has become very popular due to its high speed harassing capabilities.
Patron-Class Heavy Corvette: As opposed to a Light Corvette that is produced and used for patrol and harassment duties, Heavy Corvettes are used strictly for harsh and close quarters combat. The Patron is the newest embodiment of this class. A much more advanced and useful version of the Hammer of old, the Patron utilizes all the latest tech advances: New composite armor, more efficient engines, and a micro-hyperspace module for warp traveling. Armed with a trio of Medium Projectile Turrets, two topside and one under the chin, the Patron is a fierce opponent and presents a large threat for anything frigate sized and smaller. The four man crew is packed into a tiny compartment, as the Patron is covered in massive amounts of armor and the interior contains the latest targeting computers, communication technology, and sensor arrays.
Prodigal-Class Multigun Corvette: The major weakness of frigates and larger capital ships is that generally their weapons are designed to engage ships of analogous size and function. Heavy turrets can punch gaping holes in an enemy cruiser, but they must rely on pure luck to hit high maneuverability targets. This leaves heavier ships very vulnerable to massed attacks by strike craft. Fleet Command realized that fighters are better used in the offensive role and so an order for some sort of larger anti-fighter platform was placed. The Prodigal utilizes the most advanced turret control known to allow a relatively small crew handle the six individual turrets. Each contains a Medium Projectile Turret that fires a weapon deadly to strike craft and frightening to Frigates. Using the latest armor and engines, the Prodigal has become feared by most strike craft pilots on the receiving end of an attack. The turrets are located: Two under the chin, one on the underside in the center of the craft, one on top of the cockpit and two topside in the middle of the craft. The crew of four sit in an armored cockpit located in the nose of the craft.
Typhoon-Class Heavy Bomber: The Typhoon-Class Heavy Bomber was created for a specific purpose in mind: To deliver a large load of ordnance to a target and to get the crew back to the carrier or Mothership alive. Due to the increasing amounts of armor and new types of composite material found on modern Frigates and Capital Ships, the plasma dischargers on the standard bomber of the Hiigaran forces began to lose their efficiency. While that type of craft is not slotted for complete replacement it has certainly taken a back seat to the Heavy Bomber. The Typhoon is heavily armored with the newest type, providing it with immense protective abilities. It also has a heavy armamnet. Under the chin cockpit is a Dual Light Kinetic Weapon Turret like that found on a Gunship. A second turret of similar type but containing only a single gun is located dorsally in a postion to cover all arcs of fire but the lower area, and a last single gun turret is situated on the underside of the ship and is meant to cover only the rear arcs. The Ventral bay can contain multiple ordnance loads depending on the target. It can hold: 1x Anti-Matter Torpedo, 4x Free Fall Anti-Matter Charges, 4x Orbital Mines, or a variety of electronics suites for patrol runs and planetary scanning. The three man crew sits increw compartment located in front of the weapon's bay. The pilots sits facing forward and also has control of the chin turret. The second crew member sits facing the front like the pilot, in a tandem configuration. This man controls mans the top turret and also is the flight navigator. The third crewman sits facing the rear and acts as the bombardier and the rear turret operator. The Typhoon Heavy Bomber flies in squadrons of three and counts as a Corvette vessel because of its size, crew, and weapons loadout. All of the armor and weapons comes at a price. Despite a trio of rather large engines, the Typhoon is quite slow but posesses stamina in excess of nearly every fighter in the Hiigaran fleet.
FRIGATES:
Guardian-Class Assault Frigate: Built to fill the role of an all-purpose fleet escort, the Guardian fills the hole nicely and even surpasses it to an extent. All of its weapons are arranged firing forward, denoting its offensive nature. Its main armament against other Frigates and larger vessels is a pair of heavy particle cannons similar to that on a Bomber, but much larger and more powerful. These are deadly to nearly any Frigate. Backing these up are four turrets, each containing a pair of Large Projectile Cannon that can easily track and eliminate corvettes and strike craft. Also using the afore mentioned micro-hyperspace module, the Guardian is the most common Frigate in the Hiigaran Navy because of its reliability and sheer flexibility.
Ravager-Class AA Frigate: Fighters have always been perhaps the most dangerous thing to a Frigate or Capital ship. The help eliminate this threat; multiple AA Frigates have been created over the years. The newest AA Frigate in the navies of the Hiigarans is the Ravager. Utilizing the old hull of the Flak Frigate from years past, techs have upgraded the fire control, armor, and engines to make it a formidable modern threat to strike craft. As opposed to two double turrets, the new Ravager has added a third to increase threat to fighters. One of the turrets is located ventrally, and the other two are located topside. This increased weapon load allows the Ravager to be a horror to fighter pilots, and still threaten other frigates to boot.
Conceit-Class Missile Frigate: Missiles have been a staple in the armories of space goers for ages. The Conceit was created to utilize the latest missile technology to destroy other Frigates and even bigger capital ships. While somewhat less common than the Assault Frigate, the Coneit has been known to take down carriers thanks to its formidable weapons array. Mounted topside and firing upward is a trio of missile tubes. These can fire missiles of different munitions dependent on the targets: fragmentation heads for strike craft, mine heads for creating fields of death, and fusion heads for use against Frigates and Capital ships. The downside to this system is it is not particularly useful against fighters. To augment this a pair of point defense turrets are located dorsally and ventrally.
Chronic-Class Ion Cannon Frigate: The Ion Cannon is the largest anti-capital ship weapon available to Frigates. A frigate mounting this weapon has been in the service of the Hiigarans for as long as anyone can remember. The Chronic uses the latest Ion Cannon as its main and only weapon. It is larger, more efficient, and much more dangerous than the previous variants making the Chronic something to be feared by Capital ships. However the sheer size and bulk of this weapon hinder the speed of the Frigate, and it is only useful against ships of the same or larger size.
CAPITAL SHIPS:
Eminent-Class Battle Cruiser: Perhaps the largest combat vessel ever fielded by the Hiigaran Navy, the Eminent-Class is very heavily armored and armed. Equipped with two dual Heavy Ion Cannon turrets, and four dual Heavy Burst Cannons Turrets, she is very dangerous to any vessel floating through space. However, her real main armament comes from the batteries of Torpedo tubes in her sides. There are eight total tubes. Three to the starboard and three to the port covers the side arcs and a pair fire forward. Such armament is quite devastating. These are massive weapon and can easily destroy a frigate in a single hit, and it takes but a few to drop anything bigger. Her largest threat is the fact she is so slow and she has no anti-strike force weapons.
Credence-Class Carrier: The aerospace carrier has been a staple of navies since its inception, and it has always been held in high esteem by the Hiigaran Naval Command. They are flying bases, able to produce any thing smaller than it’s self. The Credence-Class was created as the replacement for several less-than-perfect versions created in the last fifty years. Utilizing a powerful array of eight sub-space fusion engine for slower than light travel. Such propulsion provides it with speed approaching that of a Frigate. The four point-defense turrets of earlier Carrier has been improved to six, and the carrying capacity has increased from ten to fifteen squadrons of strike craft. A powerful sensors array is located on the prow, and there are several research modules as well as a full power hyperspace module on board. The Credence has proven an excellent vessel and is nearly irreplaceable in battlefield value.
Devourer-Class Destroyer: Sleek, deadly, and designed to take a beating, the Devourer-Class Destroyer is in every sense a heavy-hitter. Mounting an impressive armament of five dual Heavy Plasma Cannons and two Capital Ship-Class Torpedo tubes at the prow. Pretty much unchanged from earlier models, the Devourer adds another Plasma Cannon turret on the underside to improve weapons coverage of the lower arcs and rear of the craft. This version also adds a hyperspace module and improved sensors. Heavily armored and yet still speedy, this Destroyer is basically an upgrade of the one used against the Vaygr. Some say it is too old, but it ain't broke, then don't fix it.
Matron of Hiigara’ Mothership of the Hiigaran Navy: The ‘Matron of Hiigara’ is the seventeenth Mothership to be produced by the people of Hiigara since they built the first during the Homeworld War, many years past. Retaining the same shape and purpose of previous designs, the Matron is far more advanced than any other Mothership. Utilizing excellent armor and massive sub-light engines she is faster and more protected than any other in her class. Even so, she is still as maneuverable as a rock and as fast as a toad. Still, she is highly valuable for her sheer size and abilities. Inside her hull she can carry twenty-five full strength squadrons of Strike Craft or Corvettes, and she can produce any ship in the Hiigaran Navy, from the largest Battle Cruiser to the numerous resource gatherers. For defense she carries eighteen point defense turrets for attacking incoming Strike Craft but she relies on other vessels for her protection. She is a floating city, with a crew numbering in the hundreds of thousands.
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Map (http://up.kupatrix.org/f/26/Map.jpg)
Players in this RP will be members of the Mothership’s crew. There will be ranks, and positions to fill. Over time you will gain ranks, and be able to change your ship. For now, everyone is an Ensign. You are also Hiigaran, seeing as how Tanis wrote their descriptions better then I did for the Taiidan >.>
Ranks:
Ensign: Can pilot: Strikecraft
Lieutenant: Can pilot: Corvettes
Commander: Can pilot: Frigates
Captain: Can pilot: Destroyers
Admiral: Can pilot: Battle cruisers, Carriers
Fleet Admiral*
I will inform you if you gain a rank in the RP.
Character Sheet:
Name:
Age:
Gender:
Rank:
Ship:
Appearance:
Bio:
All characters will start off on the Mothership, en route to the Emergency Beacon.
Post your characters and wait for me to post the starter.
*Only GMs (I might get a Co GM at some point >.>) can be Fleet Admirals.
Information about Homeworld:
Wikipedia page for Homeworld (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homeworld)
Wikipedia page for Homeworld 2 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homeworld_2)
Wikipedia page for Homeworld Ships (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ships_of_Homeworld)
Homeworld Shipyards (http://shipyards.relicnews.com/)
EDIT: You will also gain ranks through post length, post quality, and also performance in the RP. Don't go taking down entire squadrons of strikecraft solo in your interceptor though. I would like this to be somewhat "realistic"
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They had been cast out. They had been shamed. Their once great glory had been stolen, and they knew who was responsible for the crime. The Exiles, the Kushan, the Hiigarans. They were the reason they were stuck on this world, and they were going to pay for what they had done. Being driven by a need for Vengeance, they slowly colonized the desolate world they were on. This deserted world however, was rich in a valuable mineral however. They stockpiled this, knowing it was useless to them at this stage. Many years passed, and they had finally reached the level of technology needed to leave their planet.
They activated one of the few relics they had from their previous lives, and activated a distress beacon, knowing what it would bring. Soon enough Turanic Raiders arrived, looking for a damaged ship to scavenge. What they found however, was a tempting offer. The mineral that had been stockpiled was used as bribery, and the Raiders accepted the bribe. They went in search of ships that had been abandoned, and returned them to their client’s Homeworld. They knew that the offered material was worth more than these outdated relics, and left the planet and its inhabitants to their fate. The hulks and relics were soon repaired, and the civilization was able to operate in space. They mined the needed recourses using improvised hulks, and slowly started construction of a single Station in orbit.
Now, many years later, they have an empire. Many planets have fallen under their rule through conquest and colonization, and the once mighty Vaygr have been assimilated. The Turanic Raiders see them as masters. This empire is still but a shell of its once great ancestor, and its inhabitants know this. They know who was to blame, and they knew what the answer is. They are going to have vengeance.
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“Of course you want to know what it was like. To be a starship the size of a city, to hold an entire race in your hands. To tear time and space apart, to experience pain and potential beyond the grasp of any mere flesh. You know that language can’t begin to convey the feeling, but you think maybe it was a little like being God. And you’re right. It was like being some deformed, twisted God trapped in Hell.”
Many generations have passed since the Exiles arrived at Hiigara. Many more after the Eye of Aarran was opened. And many more after that, during the golden age of S’jet. That age however, has come and gone. S’jet is on her deathbed, and the Empire is without a leader. Sajuuk once again drifting empty through space. The empire is in anarchy, and S’jet’s health is rapidly deteriorating.
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“Roger that, docking in bay 15. Nalvesi out.”
With that said, Nalvesi closed the com link to IGSC. He looked back up from the Com system, and watched the Inter-Galactic Shipping Control’s docking bay 15 slowly consume the view from the main window. Gradually, the freighter’s speed reduced to the point where it was barely moving. Clamps from the hanger’s floor rose up and latched onto the hull of the Nebalese’s Dream, holding it in place as a refueling tube connected with the port side of the ship.
“Do you ever think they’re gona' get automated docking systems for these things?” asked Nalvesi’s co-pilot.
“Doubtful. That’s the only thing a pilot really needs to do these days, if they got auto docking these ships could fly themselves.”
“Hey, some already d-” Nalvesi’s co-pilot was interrupted by the automated docking message.
“Freighter Nebalese’s Dream, welcome to the IGSC. Please remain in position until the refueling is complete.”
During the silence that followed the message and the time it would take for the refueling to complete, Nalvesi replayed the conversation he just had with his co-pilot in his head. Automated freighters were a better investment. They took less man power, and could fly for longer periods of time without needing to refuel, and they were more energy efficient. The future did not look bright for a Freighter captain.
No, the future did not look bright at all. Kareen S’jet was dying, along with half the empire. She was the one who was holding it all together. With her gone, the Empire was sure to break off into separate factions, and the galaxy would be like it was 200 years prior to now. The only reason it was still holding on now was because of how shocked everyone was that The Great Keeper could possibly die. And now it seemed all good things were coming to an end.
“Refueling complete. You may now leave the station.”
The clamps that had previously been holding the ship in place slowly started to release. Suddenly, a voice started playing over the Com system.
“Unidentified ships, you have entered Hiigaran space. Please transmit identification or turn back. I repeat, unidentified ships, you have entered Hiigaran space. Please transmit identification or turn back.”
“Negative Hiigara. We are not turning back, nor are we surrendering. See this as an official declaration of war. Prepare yourselves.”
The Nebalese’s Dream started the automated launch sequence from the station, pushing it out of the relative safety provided by the IGSC. Nalvesi brought the ship around, so that it was facing the exit of the hanger. In front of him, he saw a wave of smaller craft closing in on his freighter. A wave of missiles erupted from the closest ones, heading straight for his freighter.
“Shit.”
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“Earlier today, a surprise attack was launched at the IGSC station, near the Eye of Arran.
The attack left the station destroyed, along with every vessel in the surrounding area. We received the following message:”
“People of Hiigara, your time has expired. View the actions of this day as but a warning, for the real attacks are about to begin.”
“We have identified this signal to have originated from a world in the unknown region of space. Their craft have also been identified as a cross between the old Vaygr military ships, and the ancient Taiidani craft. The threat presented by this is unrivaled by what we have seen in recent years. The Mothership Matron of Hiigara has been sent to a distress beacon coming from a sector near the Eye.”
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Taiidani ships:
STRIKECRAFT:
Interceptor/Scout: All we have gathered from intelligence is that these craft are responsible for scouting the enemy in small groups, then gathering into a larger horde to annihilate the enemy. They are not capable of Short Range jumps. Instead, these are docked on the Support Frigates and transported to the battlefield. They have two auto-canons, one on either side of the craft. Its engine capabilities appear to match our own. These fighters are deployed as escorts, raiders, and Space Superiority fighters.
Missile Interceptor: Using the same chassis as their interceptor, the Taiidani military forces have replaced the canons on the Interceptor with a Cluster-Missile launcher located underneath the craft. Because of the size and weight of these weapons, the speed of this fighter has been slowed considerably. Also, the rate of reloading on these vessels is tediously slow. It takes nearly 15 seconds for a reload, so these craft generally attack in swarms. They are effective against Frigates, and Capital Ships.
CORVETTE:
Gun Corvette: Using a much larger and heavier chassis then the Interceptor, the Gun Corvette's only weapon is a capitol class MAC gun, with a reload time of 5 seconds. This weapon is the core of the craft, with the rest of it built around it. These ships' engines are capable of propelling it at the same speeds as the Missile Interceptor. These vessels are effective against Frigates and Capitol ships. The Taiidani Corvettes also make use of Stolen Short-Jump Technology.
Laser Corvette: Using the same build, chassis, and engines as the Gun Corvette, this ship's only difference is its weapon. It has a Pulsar Canon onboard, instead of a MAC gun. The Canon is capable of destroying fighters and other Corvettes with ease. It's reload time is 5 seconds.
Command Corvette: A corvette with no weapons. It is much faster, and has more armor on it then the regular models. While one is in the area, expect a higher performance of Taiidani tactics.
FRIGATES:
Assault Frigate: The Taiidani equivalent of the Hiigaran assault frigate. Its weapons consist of 6 MAC turrets, all mounted near the front of the ship. Midway are 6 Missile tubes, capable of firing at a rate of 1 missile every five seconds. Beyond that is the bridge, followed by the engines. This vessel is the most common frigate in the enemy’s fleet. It’s capable of taking down corvettes, Frigates, and destroyers if there are enough of them. However, the MAC turrets and missiles are slow enough to make them nearly useless against Strikecraft enemies. The assault Frigate is equipped with Short Jump technology.
Point Defense Frigate: The Taiidani response to the Counselor, the PDF is capable of destroying entire squadrons of fighters and bombers. With 5 Auto-fire canons, and the ability to maneuver like a corvette, the PDF is the best Anti-Fighter vessel in the Taiidani navy. The engines on this ship make it nearly half as fast as a Corvette. It also has the stolen Short Jump, along with all of the other Taiidani Frigates and Capital ships.
Torpedo Frigate: During the post Vaygr war Era (also known as the romantic era) many of the Hiigaran Torpedo Frigates were abandoned due to their inability to compete with the new generations of ships. It’s unknown how the Taiidani acquired one, but they have. Mounted on their standard Frigate hull are three Torpedo Tubes, each of them capable of firing cluster torpedoes, which break apart before hitting anything smaller then a Frigate. These three tubes are capable of firing 1 torpedo every 5 seconds. Alone, this vessel is an easy target for Strikecraft and Corvettes, but in a large group these crafts are very dangerous. They are effective against Corvettes, Frigates, and Capitol ships.
Support Frigate: This craft is used to refuel, reload, and repair strike craft in the field. It is also used as a transportation system for the fighter class ships. It can store up to 10 at a time, and has the ability to make many short range jumps without docking or receiving more fuel/battery power.
Capital ships:
Destroyer: The Taiidani destroyer is the backbone of one of their capital phalanxes. With 8 torpedo tubes, 3 MAC turrets, and an Ion Beam turret, this vessel is a formidable opponent. Their destroyer’s speed is a little under half of that of their frigates, making it the third slowest ship in their fleet. However, this ship is no match for our current model.
Carrier: The Taiidan rely heavily on their mobile carrier forces. These ships are light, cheap, and expandable. A production facility with paper thin armor and engines. All Taiidani carriers are able to build anything smaller then a Capital Ship. Their defenses consist of several Anti-Strikecraft guns. Its barely slower then one of their destroyers.
Battle Cruiser: The Taiidan version of the Eminent, this ship is by far the most powerful vessel fielded today. With 4 Ion Beam turrets, 4 MAC turrets, and 6 Torpedo tubes make this the ship that can easily destroy anything we have. Fortunately, these are not widely fielded, and are generally used to defend Shipyards and to launch attacks on high priority targets. It is the slowest ship in their navy, its speed matching our Battle Cruiser.
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Hiigaran Navy:
Chaplain-Class Scout: The basic principle of a scout fighter has remained mostly unchanged since the first was created at the beginning of the Homeworld War. Utilizing lighter armor and a yet bigger engine, technicians have improved many aspects of the Scout that saw service against the Vaygr. Because of the advances made in armor design and composition, the Chaplain retains all the armor value of the previous versions at about two-thirds the weight. A larger engine module also creates a massive boost in speed in comparison to older Scouts. Also, the newest Chaplain introduces something not seen in any previous fighter: A micro-hyperspace module. This allows nearly infinite scouting capability. Care should be used though, as the module can only provide a portal several times before running out of energy. Even so, this is the most advanced scout design to date. Similar modules are now being used in all fighters, corvettes, and frigates of the Hiigaran Navy. Armament remains comparatively light, and it comes equipped with but a single fixed auto cannon.
Saber-Class Interceptor: The Saber is the latest and greatest standard fighter of the Hiigaran navies. The famous and ultimately highly successful Interceptor that was used in the time of Vaygr War was all but completely surpassed by a series of technological advances in the subsequent years after the end of that conflict. Perhaps the greatest advantage the Saber has over all other modern fighters is a micro-hyper drive that supplements the standard engines of the craft. While allowing a much shorter jump than a carrier, this allows squadrons of fighters to extend their range and strike area. While aesthetically resembling the Interceptor of old, the Saber also includes a series of advanced engines and new plasteel armor the makes it faster and harder to kill. Replacing the fixed Kinetic Auto gun under the nose is a semi-flexible, three barreled cannon capable of excessively high rates of fire. Adding to this firepower is that it has the ability to pivot five degrees in any direction. This gives the weapon greater accuracy. All together, the Saber is an excellent new fighter and does the Hiigaran Navy proud.
Counselor-Class Bomber: Ships designed for delivering bomb loads have been a staple in space faring nations for as long as sub-light drives have been around, and they remain quite similar despite greater advances in technology. The Counselor is the newest Bomber created by the Hiigaran scientists for the Navy. The same armor used on the Saber-Class Interceptor is also utilized on the Counselor for excellent protection. New, more efficient engine modules have also been installed to provide a much needed increase in speed. Even so, the Counselor remains the slowest fighter-class vessel and needs protection from enemy fighters. Fixed firing forward is a pair of high tech particle accelerator discharged that launch a compact ball of energy that can penetrate most modern and all previous armor types. Also, a much needed defensive measure has been taken. An auto-tracking, single barreled kinetic cannon has been mounted in a top turret firing to the rear to help discourage fighters from pouncing on this vessels. The Counselor has already proven its battlefield value and will remain in constant production for years to come.
CORVETTES:
Airy-Class Light Corvette: Light Corvettes have always been a staple in space going nations. The Airy-class is a call back to the Cavalier of the Homeworld War, the same vessels that fell into dis-use after the conclusion of the Homeworld campaign. They have since come back into use as long range patrol craft and escorts for larger vessels. The Airy even aesthetically resembles the Cavalier, but the similarity ends there. As opposed to a single gun turret, the Airy sports a pair of Medium Projectile weapons, mounted dorsally and ventrally. It also boasts increased speed and armor over previous Light Corvettes. Utilizing a crew of three, it has become very popular due to its high speed harassing capabilities.
Patron-Class Heavy Corvette: As opposed to a Light Corvette that is produced and used for patrol and harassment duties, Heavy Corvettes are used strictly for harsh and close quarters combat. The Patron is the newest embodiment of this class. A much more advanced and useful version of the Hammer of old, the Patron utilizes all the latest tech advances: New composite armor, more efficient engines, and a micro-hyperspace module for warp traveling. Armed with a trio of Medium Projectile Turrets, two topside and one under the chin, the Patron is a fierce opponent and presents a large threat for anything frigate sized and smaller. The four man crew is packed into a tiny compartment, as the Patron is covered in massive amounts of armor and the interior contains the latest targeting computers, communication technology, and sensor arrays.
Prodigal-Class Multigun Corvette: The major weakness of frigates and larger capital ships is that generally their weapons are designed to engage ships of analogous size and function. Heavy turrets can punch gaping holes in an enemy cruiser, but they must rely on pure luck to hit high maneuverability targets. This leaves heavier ships very vulnerable to massed attacks by strike craft. Fleet Command realized that fighters are better used in the offensive role and so an order for some sort of larger anti-fighter platform was placed. The Prodigal utilizes the most advanced turret control known to allow a relatively small crew handle the six individual turrets. Each contains a Medium Projectile Turret that fires a weapon deadly to strike craft and frightening to Frigates. Using the latest armor and engines, the Prodigal has become feared by most strike craft pilots on the receiving end of an attack. The turrets are located: Two under the chin, one on the underside in the center of the craft, one on top of the cockpit and two topside in the middle of the craft. The crew of four sit in an armored cockpit located in the nose of the craft.
Typhoon-Class Heavy Bomber: The Typhoon-Class Heavy Bomber was created for a specific purpose in mind: To deliver a large load of ordnance to a target and to get the crew back to the carrier or Mothership alive. Due to the increasing amounts of armor and new types of composite material found on modern Frigates and Capital Ships, the plasma dischargers on the standard bomber of the Hiigaran forces began to lose their efficiency. While that type of craft is not slotted for complete replacement it has certainly taken a back seat to the Heavy Bomber. The Typhoon is heavily armored with the newest type, providing it with immense protective abilities. It also has a heavy armamnet. Under the chin cockpit is a Dual Light Kinetic Weapon Turret like that found on a Gunship. A second turret of similar type but containing only a single gun is located dorsally in a postion to cover all arcs of fire but the lower area, and a last single gun turret is situated on the underside of the ship and is meant to cover only the rear arcs. The Ventral bay can contain multiple ordnance loads depending on the target. It can hold: 1x Anti-Matter Torpedo, 4x Free Fall Anti-Matter Charges, 4x Orbital Mines, or a variety of electronics suites for patrol runs and planetary scanning. The three man crew sits increw compartment located in front of the weapon's bay. The pilots sits facing forward and also has control of the chin turret. The second crew member sits facing the front like the pilot, in a tandem configuration. This man controls mans the top turret and also is the flight navigator. The third crewman sits facing the rear and acts as the bombardier and the rear turret operator. The Typhoon Heavy Bomber flies in squadrons of three and counts as a Corvette vessel because of its size, crew, and weapons loadout. All of the armor and weapons comes at a price. Despite a trio of rather large engines, the Typhoon is quite slow but posesses stamina in excess of nearly every fighter in the Hiigaran fleet.
FRIGATES:
Guardian-Class Assault Frigate: Built to fill the role of an all-purpose fleet escort, the Guardian fills the hole nicely and even surpasses it to an extent. All of its weapons are arranged firing forward, denoting its offensive nature. Its main armament against other Frigates and larger vessels is a pair of heavy particle cannons similar to that on a Bomber, but much larger and more powerful. These are deadly to nearly any Frigate. Backing these up are four turrets, each containing a pair of Large Projectile Cannon that can easily track and eliminate corvettes and strike craft. Also using the afore mentioned micro-hyperspace module, the Guardian is the most common Frigate in the Hiigaran Navy because of its reliability and sheer flexibility.
Ravager-Class AA Frigate: Fighters have always been perhaps the most dangerous thing to a Frigate or Capital ship. The help eliminate this threat; multiple AA Frigates have been created over the years. The newest AA Frigate in the navies of the Hiigarans is the Ravager. Utilizing the old hull of the Flak Frigate from years past, techs have upgraded the fire control, armor, and engines to make it a formidable modern threat to strike craft. As opposed to two double turrets, the new Ravager has added a third to increase threat to fighters. One of the turrets is located ventrally, and the other two are located topside. This increased weapon load allows the Ravager to be a horror to fighter pilots, and still threaten other frigates to boot.
Conceit-Class Missile Frigate: Missiles have been a staple in the armories of space goers for ages. The Conceit was created to utilize the latest missile technology to destroy other Frigates and even bigger capital ships. While somewhat less common than the Assault Frigate, the Coneit has been known to take down carriers thanks to its formidable weapons array. Mounted topside and firing upward is a trio of missile tubes. These can fire missiles of different munitions dependent on the targets: fragmentation heads for strike craft, mine heads for creating fields of death, and fusion heads for use against Frigates and Capital ships. The downside to this system is it is not particularly useful against fighters. To augment this a pair of point defense turrets are located dorsally and ventrally.
Chronic-Class Ion Cannon Frigate: The Ion Cannon is the largest anti-capital ship weapon available to Frigates. A frigate mounting this weapon has been in the service of the Hiigarans for as long as anyone can remember. The Chronic uses the latest Ion Cannon as its main and only weapon. It is larger, more efficient, and much more dangerous than the previous variants making the Chronic something to be feared by Capital ships. However the sheer size and bulk of this weapon hinder the speed of the Frigate, and it is only useful against ships of the same or larger size.
CAPITAL SHIPS:
Eminent-Class Battle Cruiser: Perhaps the largest combat vessel ever fielded by the Hiigaran Navy, the Eminent-Class is very heavily armored and armed. Equipped with two dual Heavy Ion Cannon turrets, and four dual Heavy Burst Cannons Turrets, she is very dangerous to any vessel floating through space. However, her real main armament comes from the batteries of Torpedo tubes in her sides. There are eight total tubes. Three to the starboard and three to the port covers the side arcs and a pair fire forward. Such armament is quite devastating. These are massive weapon and can easily destroy a frigate in a single hit, and it takes but a few to drop anything bigger. Her largest threat is the fact she is so slow and she has no anti-strike force weapons.
Credence-Class Carrier: The aerospace carrier has been a staple of navies since its inception, and it has always been held in high esteem by the Hiigaran Naval Command. They are flying bases, able to produce any thing smaller than it’s self. The Credence-Class was created as the replacement for several less-than-perfect versions created in the last fifty years. Utilizing a powerful array of eight sub-space fusion engine for slower than light travel. Such propulsion provides it with speed approaching that of a Frigate. The four point-defense turrets of earlier Carrier has been improved to six, and the carrying capacity has increased from ten to fifteen squadrons of strike craft. A powerful sensors array is located on the prow, and there are several research modules as well as a full power hyperspace module on board. The Credence has proven an excellent vessel and is nearly irreplaceable in battlefield value.
Devourer-Class Destroyer: Sleek, deadly, and designed to take a beating, the Devourer-Class Destroyer is in every sense a heavy-hitter. Mounting an impressive armament of five dual Heavy Plasma Cannons and two Capital Ship-Class Torpedo tubes at the prow. Pretty much unchanged from earlier models, the Devourer adds another Plasma Cannon turret on the underside to improve weapons coverage of the lower arcs and rear of the craft. This version also adds a hyperspace module and improved sensors. Heavily armored and yet still speedy, this Destroyer is basically an upgrade of the one used against the Vaygr. Some say it is too old, but it ain't broke, then don't fix it.
Matron of Hiigara’ Mothership of the Hiigaran Navy: The ‘Matron of Hiigara’ is the seventeenth Mothership to be produced by the people of Hiigara since they built the first during the Homeworld War, many years past. Retaining the same shape and purpose of previous designs, the Matron is far more advanced than any other Mothership. Utilizing excellent armor and massive sub-light engines she is faster and more protected than any other in her class. Even so, she is still as maneuverable as a rock and as fast as a toad. Still, she is highly valuable for her sheer size and abilities. Inside her hull she can carry twenty-five full strength squadrons of Strike Craft or Corvettes, and she can produce any ship in the Hiigaran Navy, from the largest Battle Cruiser to the numerous resource gatherers. For defense she carries eighteen point defense turrets for attacking incoming Strike Craft but she relies on other vessels for her protection. She is a floating city, with a crew numbering in the hundreds of thousands.
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Map (http://up.kupatrix.org/f/26/Map.jpg)
Players in this RP will be members of the Mothership’s crew. There will be ranks, and positions to fill. Over time you will gain ranks, and be able to change your ship. For now, everyone is an Ensign. You are also Hiigaran, seeing as how Tanis wrote their descriptions better then I did for the Taiidan >.>
Ranks:
Ensign: Can pilot: Strikecraft
Lieutenant: Can pilot: Corvettes
Commander: Can pilot: Frigates
Captain: Can pilot: Destroyers
Admiral: Can pilot: Battle cruisers, Carriers
Fleet Admiral*
I will inform you if you gain a rank in the RP.
Character Sheet:
Name:
Age:
Gender:
Rank:
Ship:
Appearance:
Bio:
All characters will start off on the Mothership, en route to the Emergency Beacon.
Post your characters and wait for me to post the starter.
*Only GMs (I might get a Co GM at some point >.>) can be Fleet Admirals.
Information about Homeworld:
Wikipedia page for Homeworld (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homeworld)
Wikipedia page for Homeworld 2 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homeworld_2)
Wikipedia page for Homeworld Ships (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ships_of_Homeworld)
Homeworld Shipyards (http://shipyards.relicnews.com/)
EDIT: You will also gain ranks through post length, post quality, and also performance in the RP. Don't go taking down entire squadrons of strikecraft solo in your interceptor though. I would like this to be somewhat "realistic"