Vorsia Companion (featured)
This is a dated article that is retained on a separate page due to its featured status. The current version (@ Vorsia Companion) is different in content.
| Vorsia Companion | |
| |
| Location | |
| System | Vorsia |
| Sector | Neshig |
| Galactic Coordinates | 96, 90 |
| System Coordinates | 4, 5 |
| Astrographic Entry | Vorsia Companion |
| Statistics | |
| Type | Moon |
| Primary Terrain: | Jungles, forests |
| Rotational Period | 26 standard hours |
| Orbital Period | 1,616 local days |
| Population | 19,474,191 |
| Control | |
| Controlled By | None |
| Governor | Lilith Delcroix |
| Magistrate | |
| Sentient Races | Humans |
Vorsia Companion is a large moon that orbits the gas giant, Vorsia, in the Vorsia system, which is located in the Neshig Sector. Despite being in the middle of the Trade Federation space the moon enjoys territorial autonomy and is mostly closed off to outsiders. The vast majority of its surface is covered by endless forests and jungles with cities integrated into the flora. Following its initial colonisation, administrative control of the moon passed through many organisations and private owners, developing a militaristic and traditionalist population that is currently ruled by Countess Lilith Delcroix, de-facto owner of the moon.
Contents
History
Details about the first colonisation of the moon are all lost to the history of time. The first recorded government of the moon was established by the original Bounty Hunters Guild (BHG) when they found an abandoned base and claimed it for their own. The BHG developed many large cities on the lunar surface and the population quickly swelled. Eventually, the Guild turned it into a large recruitment centre and military base. Every city hosted a number of barracks for the Guild's military personnel. Unsurprisingly, the local culture became highly militaristic and almost every citizen served in the army at least once during their lifetimes.
After an internal power-struggle within the Bounty Hunters Guild, the government of the moon was crippled and the population succumbed into chaos and crime when the control was given to Black Sun crime syndicate in exchange for assets stolen from the Guild by its former second-in-command Karl Korne. It didn't take long for the crime syndicate to gain total control over the lunar satellite and to establish a new regime. It is believed the moon was overseen by former Vigo Tar Alaks during this period as the only palace on the surface was known as the Vigo's summer retreat. As time passed, Black Sun lost interest and the moon's control fell into private hands, notably Aries Rathakar and Anakin Aikinar. It is unknown what changes the moon underwent; however, the population remained high and the crime level still remained high along with it.
In late Year 11, control of the densely populated moon was sold to Lilith Delcroix. At that time she was still part of the Black Sun family and so it was easier for her to root out crime cells and to decrease the overall level of crime, although the moon remained independent from all political bodies and under her sole rule, which wasn't fully welcomed by the populace. City administrators enjoyed relative freedom for many years but Lilith believed a single ruler would be far more effective and efficient and of course she desired to have control over something she de-facto owned. Despite its militaristic culture the moon lacked any form of united defence or a fleet, because only the core population held the military tradition while most cities could barely sustain the number of people. With the aid of the Family, hired mercenaries, and her own small private armada, Lilith was able to quickly secure the orbit and airspace due to very little opposition. As the owner of all major infrastructure, Lilith was able to land her forces securely, cutting off power to whole cities at a time to minimize resistance. Some cities were without power for several days and among the original population it is remembered as "The Black Out."
After all the major cities were secured the power began to be restored and the people were informed about the new form of government that was being established. Taking the moon's palace didn't go without bloodshed and collectively Lilith's forces were called "Bloodthrone" by the locals, which later became their official name. From the several groups, clans, and corporations that held power in the main population areas, the three most prominent ones were approached to help form families that would govern districts of the moon under rule of the sovereign. After peace was achieved and their rule went unchallenged House Delcroix was established and Lilith with her Mistress took noble titles of Countess and Dark Countess, respectively.
Since then the moon enjoyed times of prosperity and stability. Lilith became known as Sovereign Countess after the death of her Mistress at the end of Year 11. The Council of Three was created to assist with day-to-day duties and needs of the moon, act as advisors and rule in sovereign's absence. Near end of Year 12 Vorsia Companion's territory was expanded with annexation of several cities on the gas giant Shownar II, which lead to creation of House Ravenscar to overseer the autonomous cities-collective. In Year 13 when Lilith formed Dark Skies Gearworks the moon was officially declared under control of the company, however it did not affect the local government. This was evident a year later when the company was closed on galactic scale without disturbing organisation on the moon.
Government
The moon was always relatively independent and isolated without belonging to any major galactic government and it is to this day. An absolute monarchy was established after Lilith Delcroix and her Mistress took control to ensure their rule would be unchallenged and remain within their family in future generations. The sovereign has the ultimate authority over the military and collectively are known as "Bloodthrone." The first and current sovereign is Lilith Delcroix. Even though she is not bound by laws in her rule Lilith does not believe in tyranny and control through fear. She believes that a single ruler without limitations is more efficient and beneficial to the people as it roots out the bureaucracy, inefficiency, and inevitable corruption that are likely in democratic governments or similar governing bodies with an electoral system where the vision of the leader is hindered by political parties, constitutions, and laws.
To help the sovereign tend to the day-to-day business of the moon or to make decisions in her absence, the Countess formed the Council of Three. One representative from each major family has a seat on the Council, all of which were approved by the Countess. Since the Council's establishment the families continue to work on the improvement of the moon. It is not without struggles and skirmishes between Houses are not unheard of, but the well-being of the people is always held above everything else. All of the three families hold the same authority to minimize the need to gain power and keep the general peace.
Bloodthrone
House Delcroix — "Truth at any cost."
House Delcroix was a part of coalition of Noble Houses that ruled over a system in the Unknown Regions. Houses mainly consisted of Hapan nobles who left the Hapes Cluster many decades ago in a search of an adventure and to discover the uncharted space. The original House remained in the Unknown Regions, Lilith was the only member to leave. She made no claims to nobility until she had control over the moon. When establishing her own House, Lilith chose a new coat of arms and began its history anew in the known galaxy. The House currently has no other noble members.
The Three Families
House von Vorsia — "Failure is not an option."
They are descendants of the first colonists and the largest of the three families. Some think they should be the ruling house of the Vorsia moon, but they have no such ambition and prefer to concentrate on helping the moon prosper. They are aristocratic in nature and most of their members are high ranking in the military. Throughout the history the von Vorsians had many conflicts with Drakenlunes, some of which are unresolved even after many years. Head of the House is currently Ector von Vorsia.
House Bathori — "We endure."
Members of the house were always very mysterious, secretive, and spiritual. After helping to form the Vorsian Church they were granted titles of spiritual leaders and oversee the Church operations on the moon. Rumours exist that the core of the house is actually made out of ancient Anzati aliens, but this remains unconfirmed. Family members of Bathori can be easily recognised by their pale skin and thorn tattoos on their bodies.
House Drakenlune — "Flesh is weak."
A mercenary clan at its origin, it is unknown when exactly they settled on the moon but, by Year 11, the majority of the barracks were occupied by their members which gave them a strong foothold. It is assumed they enjoyed the militaristic code and honour of the population, and that it encouraged them to remain over the years. They have always utilized cybernetics, but it wasn't till few years ago they began to endorse them to all of their members and population of their territory. The Drakenlunes are the most ruthless of the Council families.
Minor Houses
House Ravenscar — "We stand apart."
To fit into the Vorsia Companion's hierarchy the elite of Ravenscar corporations came together and formed a group of CEOs that eventually have come to be identified as House Ravenscar by Vorsian citizens. The chairman of the group and de-facto Head of the House is commonly known as the Ravenlord. She ensures the city collective is well-maintained and sends reports to the Bloodthrone sovereign. Despite having only administrative power within Vorsian government it is an influential position because of the many trading and business opportunities located in the cities. The current Ravenlord is Lady Helen Ry, Warmistress of Ry Industries.
Districts
Vorsia Companion is separated into four districts and those are subdivided into smaller regions. The biggest district falls under rule of the Bloodthrone. The other three are each governed by one of the Council families and their vassal minor families. Within each district the family acts as a governing body with authority over their regions, but all answer to the sovereign. Each district oversees a different part of the moon's infrastructure so they are all equally important to ensure that all families have equal authority and there are no disputes over power.
The Capital District
The Capital district is the biggest and falls under control of the sovereign. It consists of the major cities on Vorsia Companion, including the capital city which makes it the most populated district. The district is in charge of administration, information, treasury and military. The capital Bloodthrone city is home to the largest hospital, Sovereign's palace and HoloNet centre among other landmarks. Angel's Falls is the only city open to visitors due to Dark Skies Gearworks influence and has the only starport on the moon. Sharrad city is the oldest city on Vorsia Companion and military headquarters.
The North-West District
The North-West district is ruled by the von Vorsia family. It is the second most populated district; it consists mainly of civilian housing areas. The main focus of the district is to watch over wellbeing of the general population, education, research and entertainment business operations. It supplies the necessary structure and support for families. Majority of mining on Vorsia is under administration of this district. This gives the district its unique power as Vorsia's off-world trade is mostly raw materials. The capital city of North-West is High Garden; the other major city is Fort Elysian.
The North-East District
The North-East district more commonly known as District Zero is home of Drakenlune family. Majority of its regions are off limits to the general population, for they house the planetary defences. While not in charge of the military Drankenlune maintain the planetary weapons and shield network that protects the moon. This makes them second in charge of the off-world traffic. Vast majority of the population are varying levels of cyborgs. The most important members of the house are more machine than human, while mere workers have only very few cybernetic implants. The North-East is also in charge of the HoloNet, cybernetic warfare, research and data storage. The capital city is Origin, or 0.0.0 as it is more commonly known by its population. The Origin city reassembles a hive with large quantities of cables, droids, terminals and servers. All communication is shared over wireless networks that only members of Drakenlune house can access. There are very few outsiders. Inevitable City, second largest city of the district, is similar in structure but built in entirely different fashion.
The South-West District
The South-West district or the Forest District is the least populated part of the moon, and also the smallest district with no regions. The whole district is covered by a dark forest which makes it different to the jungles and other forests of Vorsia. It is ruled by the Bathori family. Despite being in charge of the religion it is often described as grim and unfriendly district by those who do not live there. The capital city of South-West is Necrogothal, it houses Sanctum Necrothal Vorsia cathedral. Another city in the district is La`Marre which is scarcely populated despite its size.
Ravenscar
Ravenscar is an autonomous city-state under sovereignty of Vorsia's Companion located on the Shownar II gas giant. It is a collective of five floating cities orbiting high above the planet's core. When Countess Lilith came into the possession of the cities she saw it as an opportunity to expand Bloodthrone's territory, however Shownar II is located at the very south of the galaxy, which is very far from the Vorsia system and so it is not directly ruled over by the Vorsia's moon government. Instead it is open to private merchants, entertainers, pilots and others to set up their business that are overseen by a group of the elite CEOs. Ravenscar is home to a shockball stadium, a zoo, and a vast wildlife preserve among others to enrich the life of the population and visitors. The cities are in cooperation with Er`edal city.
Law
The law on Vorsia moon is more flexible and less restrictive than in much of the galaxy. For example, there are no regulations against carrying a weapon, usage of drugs, or contraband. All citizens are expected to fulfil their duty efficiently and to respect the freedom of others. In a way they are free to do as they will as long they are able to do their duty and their actions do not restrict and/or prevent others from doing their duty. Every citizen on Vorsia has a set of basic human rights, such as the right to live and the right to freedom of choice. All citizens have equal rights and any violation or attempt to restrict those rights is severely punished. Justice on Vorsia Companion can appear unduly draconian as anyone who voluntarily breaks the law rescinds their rights and therefore are not treated as regular citizens. The aim of the harsh prison environment is to discourage any potential criminals.
The law is enforced by the VC Security, a police organisation separated into departments that only have authority in their respective districts where they answer to the ruling family. The main vehicle used by VC Security is the JX40 Jailspeeder and a standard police unit consists of two security officers and six Battle Droids for support. BARC Speeders are used as a secondary vehicle, usually by higher-ranking officers for faster deployment. The Vorsian Jurisdictional Command (VJC) is the elite security force on the moon and, alongside the sovereign, has authority in all districts. The VJC ensures that no fugitives can seek refuge in districts where the family that issued the warrant has no authority. They also act as the sovereign's guards.
Geography
The entire surface of the moon is covered with forests and jungles. As a result, the atmosphere is rich with oxygen and the air feels somewhat moist in most areas. All of the lunar cities were built with comfort and practicality in mind without destroying the moon's rich environment; hence, no space was wasted with superfluous buildings. Obsolete infrastructure that served its purpose has been dutifully recycled and rebuilt into something new. No particular architectural style has a dominant influence and only a small amount of structures were designed to be aesthetically pleasing, as practicality is favoured over visual appeal. Art in all of its forms is a welcomed hobby for Vorsians, but not widely accepted as a duty, which contrasts with Countess Delcroix who is known for her artistic skills throughout the galaxy.
The capital of Vorsia Companion is Bloodthrone City located in the southern reaches of the moon. The most dominant structure in the capital's skyline is the Bloodthrone palace, the seat of power of the Sovereign Countess and the Council of Three. It has been rebuilt a few times through history, but its appearance changed the most when Countess Delcroix assumed power. Large portions were taken down and built into tall golden towers with countless windows. The front of the palace resembles a cathedral but — to keep the Vorsian tradition — the remainder of the palace is more like a fortress so it could protect the monarch. The rest of the city contains entertainment centres for its citizenry, luxurious skyscrapers, and boulevards adorned with statues. It also houses Jou Memorial Hospital, the largest infirmary on the lunar satellite. Another important city is the oldest city Sharrad where the military control centre and training academy are situated, but more importantly it is the location of the Ivory Tower, the earliest temple constructed on the moon. The smallest part of the city is a civilian district that offers almost the same luxury as the capital.
Economy
Vorsia Companion is mostly self-sufficient and is not dependent on off-world commerce, though it largely cooperates with Trade Federation that controls the Vorsia system. The principal imports are construction materials for the development of infrastructure and planetary defences. Some of the natural resources mined from the moon's soil, such as Alazhi and Varium, are exported and sold. The official currency is the Galactic Credit and the treasury is backed by Lowickan rare gems. After the Krath Dynasty's fiasco with Nova Crystals, they are no longer accepted on the moon as currency.
Culture
The population of Vorsia moon is mostly isolated; the whole moon is enclosed by planetary shields and outsiders are not often granted passage, and when they are, it is rare for a visitor to be allowed to freely roam the cities. Necessary off-world trade and other business are mainly conducted in space stations orbiting the moon or a diplomatic ship. Citizens of the moon have a strong sense of public service and are highly disciplined. Tradition and honour are among the most important aspects of the society. It is every citizen's duty to contribute towards the welfare of the population in some way by working hard and efficiently. Militaristic tradition dates back to the first colonisation of the moon and so the society is very regimented and organised. Bureaucracy is regarded as a waste of time; all changes, advances, and decisions accepted by the leadership are swiftly adopted by the rest of the society with minimal resistance.
Often individuality and personal desires are instinctively set aside for the good of all. There are no poor sections of cities where people are abandoned to rot in poverty like is often witnessed on many civilized planets; all regions of the moon meet a certain standard of living so the population can prosper as a whole. Vorsians are taught to have a high sense of honour and personal accountability, and to accept every decision they make, whether good or bad, and face the consequences. One of the most egregious acts of dishonour a Vorsian can commit is to lie about their actions. Crime is not an uncommon occurrence, but the judicial system is more efficient than typically expected, as most captured criminals will simply confess their crime if questioned directly.
Vorsia News Network (VNN) is the primary source of news that covers events in all districts and also space around the moon. The news are broadcasted in regular hours during the day through VNN satellite that only sends signal to the lunar surface and selected space stations in Vorsia system. The studio also publishes some of the more important news on Vorsia HoloNet that is accessible from anywhere in the galaxy.
Population
Behind the idyllic image of a peaceful culture there is a notable lack of non-humans in the moon's population. Since Countess Delcroix's reign the population has dwindled from a hundred and twenty million citizens to just twenty million. To the public it was justified as improving the standard of living led to greater comfort for the citizens but fewer homes. Rumours exist about mass deportations of aliens during the first months of development, but no official statements were released. However the overall standard of living has improved exponentially as the Countess devoted a great deal of resources into rebuilding old military cities with the comfort of her people in mind. This led the wider galaxy to conclude that Vorsia moon's population is highly xenophobic and doesn't treat aliens as equals. It is unknown if it has always been so, but Countess Delcroix is known for her xenophobic nature. Despite the Human High Culture, Vorsian citizens do not support or practice aggression towards non-humans.
Language
Due to the vast majority of population being human, the only official language on the moon is Galactic Basic. Other human languages such as Hapanii are only used among minority groups. The Drakenlune citizens use their own version of Binary computer language, though since it can be only utilized via specialized cybernetics implants, the rest of the population is unable to comprehend it.
Religion
The people of Vorsia moon are free to choose their own religion, though the majority of the population follows the faith of the Vorsian Church. It does not have any strict dogma or specific deities; the Church mainly functions to offer support and services for the people. Over time different cults emerged and formed branches of the Church, such as the Cult of Machine, which to an extent preaches glorification of cyborgs, and the Cult of Madness which pursues study of the Dark Side.
All groups and cults are welcomed on the moon as long as they do not impede anyone's ability to perform their duties. Although not officially forbidden or illegal, the practice of the Jedi code or similar beliefs associated with the so-called Light side is not very welcome on Vorsia moon. The only known Force group based on Vorsia Companion are Dark Side Scholars and Alchemists. As a part of the James Academy, the purpose of the group is the pursuit of knowledge and better understanding mysteries of the Force.
Education
As with almost everything else, universities and education institutions on Vorsia Companion are encompassed within the monolithic military structure. All citizens are provided with mandatory basic education from early age to teenage years and, because of this, home-schooling is rare on the moon. Some elements of the basic education include preparing for military training. If a citizen is unable to continue their education they are sent to train in manual labour. All citizens are required to either study or work to keep unemployment to the very minimum. If they pass basic education they continue either into full military training or into more specialized roles. All education is provided free for citizens as the government realizes the importance of a skilled population. Students are simply required to pass their training; otherwise, they are not able to advance and have to begin work.
There are two main higher education institutions on Vorsia. The Sharrad Academy de Vorsia provides the highest level of training on the moon and many successful graduates start high within the militaristic hierarchy. The James Academy received its name from its patron Princess Jessica James of Hapes and was opened in early Year 15 for Vorsian citizens to pursue their passions for math, science, and the liberal arts. The Academy is much less militaristic and has a secondary campus in the Ivory Tower where gifted and exceptional students pursue knowledge of the Force. The current Headmaster of the James Academy is Libertina Grimm.
Scientific Research
The Vorsia Future Foundation was established in the medical labs of High Garden and announced to the general public in early Year 15. The purpose of the Foundation is to encourage couples on Vorsia Companion to start a family and to support those that either cannot or struggle to have children. Its primary target demographic are same-sex couples. The Foundation is primarily funded by the government and finances research in bioengineering and cloning fields with the goal of replicating natural life creation without pregnancy, instead of simply creating clones of one person.
Military
The military plays a large part in Vorsian society. It is not just an armed force; it is an all-encompassing public works organization. The police and justice system are part of the Military Police and Vorsian Jurisdictional Command. The Engineers Corps develops and maintains both military and civilian equipment and structures. Public and cargo transportation is provided by the Military Logistic department. There are almost no independent civilian organisations that are not part of the military one way or another. This ensures that all changes are adapted quickly and orders carried out swiftly, decreasing bureaucracy to a bare minimum.
Out of tradition the sovereign is also the military leader; therefore, Countess Delcroix holds the title of Lord Commander but it is mostly a honourary title and she rarely uses it, only on special occasions when tradition requires it. The majority of the armed forces are part of the Vorsian Defence Fleet commanded by Admiral Aria Lerann. The fleet is separated into two main branches, the Space Navy and the Air Force. The Navy operates primarily in the moon's orbit but also patrols around space stations owned by the moon's government. The main frigates in service are Neutron Star-class bulk cruisers. The Air Force concentrates operating around the moon and providing fighter support. There are several different squadrons in service, but the bulk of the fighters consist of R-41 Starchasers and the exotic Ginivex-class.
