The Universal Coalition

Introduction

Against Solstice’s scorching sunrise, Alex, a resolute farmer, awakens within his modest outpost nestled amidst the arid expanse. Braving the 120-hour day, he tends to hardy crops that defy the harsh conditions, cultivating sustenance from the unforgiving terrain.

Ethan awakens to blaring alarms as a fleet of Corsairs streak past his perimeter. Swiftly donning his gear and jumping into the cockpit, he begins trailing the intruders against the void of space as he calls in backup.

Hidden away in the secluded Fort Black within Aetherium’s rocky rings, Lily begins her day amidst the echoing hum of the makeshift settlement. Surrounded by the austere beauty of her unconventional home, she tends to the intricate machinery that sustains life within this hidden outpost.

The Universal Coalition stands as a mere remnant of its former glory. Once a united force responsible for the diaspora of humankind and humanoid species among the stars, it now navigates a fractured and diminished existence. While the original vision of exploration and cooperation still lingers, the Coalition’s practical influence has significantly waned. The Dyxian Collective and Alsham Union, powerful factions born from the Coalition’s internal strife, dominate the galaxy. The faction’s reduced government, ostensibly in charge of the entire galaxy, struggles to maintain control, leaving much power in the hands of the dominant factions. Within the remnants of the Coalition, a diverse political landscape has emerged, with Conservatives advocating for self-determination and self-sustaining societies, Federalists seeking increased government control, and Anarchists challenging the very notion of governance.

Description

Culture

The citizens of the Universal Coalition, residing in small, remote outposts with equipment and homesteads constructed from the ships they once arrived on, predominantly belong to the working-class and face limited economic opportunities. Living in relative poverty, they have become resilient and self-reliant, adapting to the harsh conditions of their surroundings.

Despite their hardships, many remain deeply patriotic, cherishing their shared heritage and the dream of interstellar exploration that once united their forebears. Nonetheless, the majority of the populace is relatively uneducated but profoundly politicized. The prevalent political ideologies within the Coalition are the Conservatives and Federalists, who continually engage in heated blame games, each faction holding the other responsible for the faction’s decline. This deep-rooted polarization, coupled with a lack of education, fosters an atmosphere of fervent ideological conviction and distrust. Despite their patriotism, a significant portion of the population – mainly comprised of Anarchists, often synonymous with the marginalized Leeches – rejects the very idea of governance and remains disillusioned with the post-secession state of affairs.

Art and Music

Art and music thrive in the Coalition despite limited resources and remote living conditions. Utilizing salvaged materials, artists create sculptures and paintings that reflect their resilience and history of exploration. Music, both traditional and contemporary, weaves tales of unity, loss, and hope, uniting the citizens amidst ideological polarization and evoking a sense of loyalty to their shared heritage.

Leeches

“Leech” is a colloquialism referring to individuals within the Universal Coalition who have chosen not to fulfill their mandatory military service. As a consequence, they are denied certain privileges, including the right to own land, vote, or participate in the governance of the faction. Largely residing in settlements or as wandering workers, Leeches live on the outskirts of society, often facing discrimination due to their status. While some Leeches form self-sustaining communes to avoid taxation and maintain independence, others live as lone individuals, making them challenging for tax collectors to locate. These nonconformist individuals represent an ideology that rejects the Coalition’s mandatory military service and, consequently, find themselves outside the political and societal mainstream within the Universal Coalition. Leeches are often, but not always, Anarchists, and become leeches for ideological reasons. Other leeches may be unwilling to fight for personal reasons, or simply unable to.

Cities

An average settlement within the Universal Coalition reflects the inhabitants’ resourceful and adaptable nature. These small, closely-knit communities are dispersed across remote landscapes, and their homes and structures are constructed from salvaged spacecraft materials. The settlers engage in diverse trades, such as farming, mining, and scavenging, to ensure their self-sufficiency given limited resources.

The larger settlements within the Universal Coalition stand as bustling and organized regional hubs, showcasing a higher population density and greater economic diversity. Situated strategically in resource-rich areas or along major trade routes, these settlements utilize salvaged spacecraft materials in more substantial and inventive constructions, with multi-story buildings and communal gathering areas. Thriving markets attract merchants and traders from across the system, fostering a melting pot of cultures and ideas. These settlements become hotspots for political debates, which unfortunately can often result in violent protests and riots.

Coalition Space Lanes

Transportation in the Universal Coalition encompasses both planetary travel, relying on land vehicles and hovercrafts between settlements and cities, and inter-planetary and inter-stellar journeys, which take place along the regulated and safeguarded Coalition Space Lanes (CSLs). While CSLs ensure safety and resource preservation, venturing into unregulated deep space is risky but opted for by some budget-constrained travelers who can’t afford the tolls. These space lanes serve as vital conduits not only for the Coalition but also for the Dyxian Collective and Alsham Union, linking their exploration and trade networks across the galaxy.

Districts

In the Universal Coalition, planets are subdivided into hexagonal districts, with each district centered around a command post controlled by either the Conservatives or Federalists. These command posts serve as military bases, training facilities, and radio towers, distributing news and network access to the surrounding district. However, the political faction in control of a command post wields total control over the information provided, leading to highly polarized districts where citizens primarily receive perspectives aligned with their district faction’s ideology. This monopolization of ideas fosters extreme divisions between districts and exacerbates political rifts within the Universal Coalition.

Government

A Democratic Republic

The political structure within the Universal Coalition operates as a tiered democratic republic, ensuring representation and governance across different levels of authority. At the highest echelon, the Galactic government stands as the supreme governing body, presided over by the elected President. Below, at the Federal level, individual star systems have their own governance led by Governors. Further down the hierarchy, the State level manages governance over specific planets or celestial bodies, guided by elected Senators. At the lowest level, the District level manages distinct sectors on each planet, served by Representatives. Each tier adheres to the laws set forth by the preceding body but also possesses the authority to enact additional laws tailored to their respective domains.

The democratic process plays a pivotal role in the election of representatives. All citizens have the opportunity to participate in voting, exercising their right to cast ballots for Senators, Governors, and the President. In the electoral process, each citizen’s vote carries significance, with parties competing to secure support in particular districts. The political party with the highest number of votes in a given district claims victory, earning the district’s representation in the Senate. A similar competitive process occurs for both Governor and Presidential races, determining the leaders who will oversee their respective levels of governance.

Conservatives

The Conservative Party in the Universal Coalition holds a deep reverence for the Constitution and its guiding principles. Emphasizing “Dominari Novis Terris”, they envision the ultimate freedom as settling in unclaimed territories to form individual societies based on their own values and ideals. Advocating a foreign policy of non-interference, the Conservatives seek mutual respect from other factions, ensuring autonomy for themselves and others. With a resolute pro-militia stance, they prioritize a well-equipped defense force to safeguard their lands from potential encroachment. Personal liberties lie at the very core of their ideology, valuing minimal government intervention except to protect those liberties. Their unwavering commitment to individual autonomy fosters a sense of self-reliance and independence within the Coalition, making the Conservative Party a staunch advocate for personal liberties.

Federalists

The Federalist Party, a prominent political faction within the Universal Coalition, advocates for increased government control, particularly over the Alsham Union and Dyxian Collective. Their core belief is that all entities within the Coalition should share the responsibility of maintaining systems vital to the faction’s well-being, such as the militia and CSLs. In the eyes of the Federalists, a unified Coalition should wield more authority over its constituent parts, urging for greater influence over the Union and Collective. Additionally, the Federalists believe in stricter policing measures, promoting law and order as essential pillars of a well-functioning society. This goes doubly for the Union and Collective, whom they view as flagrantly disobeying the laws of the Coalition. At the local level, the Federalists advocate for a collective effort by all citizens to enhance societal well-being, envisioning a harmonious and cohesive Coalition that thrives on the principles of shared responsibilities and contributions.

Anarchists

The Anarchists, an ideological faction within the Universal Coalition, are predominantly composed of Leeches who reject the notions of mandatory military service and centralized government. Rooted in the principles of anarchy, they advocate for the dissolution of governing structures and seek to dismantle the systems of control in not just the Coalition, but the Alsham Union and Dyxian Collective as well. As they do not have an organized structure, there are several prominent ideologies in the Anarchists. Some believe that the best method is to get Representatives elected from among their number and do whatever they can to disrupt the government’s functions – filibustering, blocking proposed legislation, and instigating arguments among the other Representatives. Others take a more drastic approach, engaging in attacks against the Alsham Union and Dyxian Collective to undermine their extensive network of influence. This small but extremely vocal group is what led citizens in the Union and Collective to the belief that Coalition members are all insane terrorists. Some anarchists are so devoted to their anti-government beliefs that they use a deprecated form of money from before the War to trade amongst themselves.

Government Institutions

The North Star

“The North Star” serves as the capital of the Universal Coalition in the Omniscian system. This revered space station is a well-preserved and aged structure, housing the Federal government’s administrative functions, diplomatic activities, and interstellar communications. Despite its age, diligent maintenance ensures its continued functionality. As the central command for the Coalition militia, it oversees military operations and safeguards the faction’s interests. The grand hall hosts democratic debates, shaping the Coalition’s future through representatives from various districts.

The Constitution

The Universal Coalition’s Constitution, a fundamental document dating back to its inception, lays out the guiding principles and structure of the faction’s governance and society. Central to its ethos is the concept of “Dominari Novis Terris” or “Lоrds of New Lands,” signifying the right of settlers to claim dominion over newly discovered habitable planets and lands. Safeguarding individual rights and liberties, the Constitution guarantees freedoms of speech, assembly, and expression while forbidding discrimination based on various characteristics. Additionally, the Constitution outlines rules for trade, taxation, and required military service, promoting exploration and colonization of new worlds.

The Militia

In the Universal Coalition, the militia plays a significant role in the defense and regulation of the faction. Military service is obligatory for every citizen, requiring registration at their local command post upon reaching adulthood. A five-year term of training and service follows, and upon completion, individuals are rewarded with a plot of land to call their own for the rest of their lives. Citizens typically wear their military identification, a set of dogtags with a microchip, proudly for the rest of their lives. The primary function of the militia is to act as a police force, ensuring order and control throughout the system.

Conversely, those who choose not to fulfill their military service, known as “Leeches,” retain residency in Coalition territory but are deprived of land ownership and voting privileges. Discrimination against them is not legally prohibited, making it a common practice to request military ID before offering services. As a result, Leeches tend to group together and form their own settlements separate from the rest of Coalition society.

The militia operates with standard-issue equipment provided by the Federal government. Although it may not always be cutting-edge, the tried and tested reputation of Coalition technology compensates for its wear and tear.

The URS

The Universal Revenue Service (URS) is the taxing authority within the Universal Coalition responsible for collecting revenues to fund the faction’s operations and services. The URS employs a tax collector force that conducts door-to-door visits to assess and enforce tax compliance. To ensure their safety during tax collection, collectors are typically accompanied by guards. However, Leech communes often resort to extreme measures and may shoot tax collectors on sight, rendering them effectively exempt from taxation. Lone wandering Leeches prove difficult to locate, making them similarly exempt from taxes. In cases where individuals struggle to meet their tax obligations, the URS resorts to repossessing items or property until the owed value is satisfied. The Coalition uses a flat tax system, so everyone owes the same amount regardless of income; Many citizens do not primarily make money as their income, so calculating their exact income would be near impossible. The URS also ensures that private property is being utilized properly and not sitting unused, and will move to repossess if not.

Land Ownership

All unclaimed Coalition land is officially owned by the federal government, who manage its distribution and sale. The primary method of gaining land is through militia service; after a person finishes their mandatory service, they are granted land. They are able to request specifics about their assigned territory – a general area, a type of landscape, or a political leaning, for example – but ultimately the decision is the goverment’s to make. The federal government also manages the sale of additional land to citizens and third parties, and heavily regulates its distribution to prevent any individual from monopolizing land. They are particularly wary of Alsham Union buyers. Finally, they reserve certain areas for other use – new military outposts, parks, or any other development they need.

Trade

Military supplies are primarily acquired from old militia surplus, ensuring a continuous supply of equipment for the average citizen. In significant cities, Union shopping centers offer a wide array of goods, while wandering Union traders traverse the small settlements, providing an extensive selection of higher quality products at more competitive prices compared to local stores or traders. Despite the apparent advantages of buying from Union sources, it is perceived as a mild betrayal of the Coalition’s ethos to do so. The tension arises from the desire to maintain the faction’s self-reliance and independence while grappling with the allure of superior goods and prices offered by the Union traders.

Current Political Debates

Anarchist Satellites

Within the Universal Coalition, an ongoing political debate revolves around a group of Anarchists who have deployed several satellites over multiple Coalition planets. These satellites possess a powerful broadcasting capability, overpowering the signals of local radio towers. Their broadcasts consist of strong antigovernmental propaganda, creating a significant source of contention. The satellites wander randomly over the surface of the planet and have an extremely narrow transmission beam, making it challenging to triangulate their position and neutralize them. Despite this difficulty, the Federalists advocate for the destruction of these satellites to halt the spread of antigovernmental messages. Conversely, the Conservatives, while not supportive of the content of the broadcasts, object to such measures, citing the importance of preserving freedom of speech even when the content is objectionable. They are also firmly opposed to destroying what they perceive as another citizen’s property. This debate delves into fundamental principles of freedom of expression, property rights, and the extent of government intervention, presenting a complex and polarizing dilemma within the Universal Coalition.

Coalition Space Lane Tolls

A heated political debate ensues within the Universal Coalition concerning the prospect of lowering tolls on the Coalition Space Lanes. Advocates of this measure contend that reduced tolls would foster greater economic cooperation with the Alsham Union and Dyxian Collective and enhance interstellar trade. Furthermore, the Conservative Party asserts that the current toll rates are too high for some individuals, rendering them vulnerable to pirate attacks as they travel outside the Lanes to avoid the toll fees. They argue that lower tolls would incentivize more people to utilize the lanes, promoting a thriving and interconnected Coalition. The Federalist Party, however, has proposed a different solution to this problem: set up federal police stations across the system and increase patrols. This would both reduce the pirate presence and improve Militia response times when a ship is in need. They fear that reduced toll revenue could negatively affect the budget required for maintaining rapid response capabilities outside the lanes, thus potentially compromising security. This debate revolves around striking a balance between economic interests, safety concerns, and budgetary considerations, as the Universal Coalition grapples with finding the most optimal approach to toll rates on the vital Coalition Space Lanes.

Federal Land Distribution

One issue currently in review regards the, as one conservative senator put it, “Blatantly unconstitutional monopolization and theft of land by the federal government” and their control over its distribution. Various proposals have been put forth to address this contentious issue. One solution under consideration is the implementation of squatters’ rights, allowing individuals who settle in a location and remain unchallenged for a specific time period to claim the land as their own. There are concerns, however, that this would not actually solve the problem and would instead lead to more conflict between landowners. A more divisive proposition is the complete privatization of all state-owned land, necessitating an auction of these lands. All subsequent land trades would be privately arranged affairs between individuals. The Federalists voice concerns that such privatization, without strict regulation, could lead to the Alsham Union corporations buying up all the land, leaving many citizens landless. In response, the Conservatives offer a compromise by suggesting a maximum limit on the amount of land an individual or organization can acquire in the initial auction. Despite this compromise, the reduction in government control over land distribution raises concerns about the potential inability to ensure land availability for all citizens after their military service. This multifaceted debate revolves around balancing constitutional principles, equitable land distribution, and the role of the government in securing citizens’ access to land within the Universal Coalition.

History

Early History (2530-5790 A.D.)

The Coalition’s Origins (2530-5737 A.D.)

The Universal Coalition finds its origins within the global context of Earth’s challenges in 2530. During this period of the planetary climate crisis, the Universal Coalition emerged as a collaborative effort aimed at the discovery and colonization of habitable extraterrestrial domains. The endeavor encouraged the migration of diverse individuals and collectives, incentivizing them with promises of land ownership in unexplored regions of space.

Over time, several large factions began to grow out of the Coalition as it spread throughout the galaxy. Namely, the Union and the Collective started to amass large amounts of resource and influence throughout the colonized frontiers. Eventually, the power struggle came to a violent head.

The Great Galactic War (5737-5790 A.D.)

The Great Galactic War ignited when President Ethan Callahan of the Universal Coalition, driven by the need to curb unchecked power within the faction and protect its citizens, imposed stringent measures on the Collective and Union. To dismantle the Union’s influence, a 100% tax rate on profits exceeding 10 million credits was enacted, targeting both individuals and corporations. Similarly, the Collective faced a dismantling of its self-governance, with Callahan outlawing what he deemed “redundant unconstitutional governmental bodies,” asserting that only ideals could be followed without legal authority. While Callahan was a charismatic leader with a “for the people” mantra, his controversial laws fractured the Coalition, leading to the Union and Collective’s secession.

The Great Galactic War unfolded as the Collective and Union formed a formidable alliance, pooling their resources to challenge the Universal Coalition’s authority. Spanning a harrowing 53 years, the conflict left a trail of unimaginable destruction, claiming the lives of hundreds of billions across the galaxy. Despite commanding a significantly larger army, President Ethan Callahan’s leadership was marked by a series of strategic missteps. His errors proved costly, leading to the Coalition’s defeat despite its numerical advantage. The war left a lasting scar on the universe, reshaping political dynamics and leaving a legacy of loss and devastation.

Omniscian History (11261 A.D. – Present)

The Colonization of the Omniscian System (11261 A.D.)

The Coalition came to the Omniscian system in search of a newly-discovered rare mineral known as Omnite. The Universal Coalition saw the potential of Omnite as a powerful source of energy and sought to gain control over its collection, development, and distribution. They established a base of operations on the North Star command station. Over time, the Union grew and expanded its presence in the Omniscian system, eventually fully colonizing several planets and becoming one of the three dominant forces in the Ominiscian System.

The Development of the QuantumLink Gates (11523 A.D.)

Harnessing the extraordinary properties of Omnite, the Universal Coalition pioneered a revolutionary breakthrough in transportation technology – the development of temporary wormholes called QuantumLink Gates. These intricate conduits, colloquially known as “gates,” connect specific locations across space. Utilizing quantum-linked fragments of Omnite, one half dispatched to each designated gate, the Coalition’s engineers masterfully synchronized activation. When simultaneously triggered, these halves tore through the fabric of spacetime, creating a transitory bridge between the gates. While the amount of Omnite required for activation corresponds to the mass being transported, the resource itself remains unconsumed. It is temporarily drained, however, necessitating a recharge period before reuse. QuantumLink Gates enabled the Coalition to facilitate rapid, large-scale transportation, from colossal spacecraft to the remarkable prospect of personal teleportation, marking a defining achievement in their technological legacy.

The Omniscian Civil War (11756 A.D.)

The catalyst for the Civil War in the Omniscian System was the “Governance Reformation Debate.” It began when the Federalist Party proposed a comprehensive overhaul of the district governance structure, seeking to consolidate authority under the central Coalition state government and away from the district offices. The proposal aimed to standardize taxation, resource allocation, and law enforcement across all districts to ensure a unified response to emerging unique challenges in the district. However, this plan faced fierce opposition from the Conservative districts, who believed that it infringed upon their long-standing tradition of self-governance.

As debates grew increasingly heated, an incident known as the “Unity Rally Massacre” occurred when rival factions clashed during a large public demonstration. The clash escalated into violence, and the aftermath saw districts aligning themselves along ideological lines, with Conservatives forming an army against the proposed reforms. After several years of war and hundreds of thousands dead, the opposing factions eventually agreed to a ceasefire and truce. Though the Coalition in the Omniscian system is reunited, much of the underlying animosity between the groups has survived throughout the years.

The Solstice Araneaux Infestation (11909 A.D.)

An Alsham Union trading vessel returning from an exploratory mission unknowingly transported a dormant colony of Araneaux to Solstice. Initially perceived as a harmless organism, it was only when people began falling ill with mysterious symptoms that panic ensued. It soon became evident that the Araneaux had spread, infecting large areas of one of Solstice‘s thriving districts. The situation escalated rapidly, turning the district into a quarantine zone. As the Araneaux continued to multiply and consume, the Union‘s leadership faced a daunting challenge. A collaborative task force, comprising experts from both the Alsham Union and the Dyxian Collective, was formed. Using a combination of biological countermeasures and controlled extermination, they managed to halt the Araneaux spread. The event was a grim reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in interstellar exploration and the cost of underestimating unknown entities.

The North Star Bombing (12299 A.D.)

After decades of unrest, Anarchist militants executed a notable terrorist assault targeting the Universal Coalition’s administrative nucleus, the North Star. Employing a calculated plan, the Anarchists planted three potent Bosonic charges stolen from the Alsham Union within the capital. Although only one charge detonated, its impact was substantial. The resultant implosion led to the loss of several thousand lives and inflicted extensive damage, rendering a section of the North Star inaccessible as reconstruction continues. This event compelled the Coalition Government to exert pressure on the Union, urging heightened security protocols concerning Bosonic charges. Additionally, the tragedy furnished a pretext for the Coalition’s increased measures against Anarchist activities and piracy, ushering an era of enhanced vigilance. The suggestion of the elusive White Corsairs’ involvement lingered, yet definitive proof remained elusive, perpetuating dozens of conspiracy theories surrounding the incident.

Places and People

Notable Locations

Solstice

Solstice, the primary planet controlled by the Universal Coalition within the Omniscian System, reflects humanity’s remarkable adaptability amidst a demanding environment. Positioned closest to the searing sun, this arid world is characterized by unyielding heat and parched conditions. With days stretching an astonishing 120 hours, daily rhythms are uniquely shaped. Across its expanse of deserts and rocky plateaus, rural outposts flourish, each division a testament to the Coalition’s ethos of resilience and self-sufficiency. Solstice’s unforgiving landscape becomes the backdrop against which closely-knit communities thrive, weaving a narrative of unity in diversity across this remarkable planetary frontier.

Fort Black

Situated within the rings of Aetherium, the gas giant of the Omniscian System, exists an outpost recognized for its role as a gathering point for Anarchists and Corsairs. Constructed by fusing decommissioned spacecraft into asteroids, the enclave is informally known as “Fort Black.” This outpost serves as a haven for activities that often defy established laws, piracy and smuggling being most prominent among them. In addition to its reputation as a hub of criminal operations, the enclave functions as a sanctuary for those seeking respite from the Universal Coalition’s governing authority. The community of Fort Black is united by a shared inclination toward autonomy and independence from the Coalition.

Hades Prison

On the distant and frozen reaches of Hades, the outermost planet in the Omniscian System, stands Hades Prison, an imposing establishment of formidable security. Criminals apprehended by the Coalition face confinement in this isolated facility, enduring the severe cold and hazardous conditions. Functioning as a high-security penitentiary, Hades Prison is designed to house and contain those who have violated the law. This remote location and harsh environment deter any attempts at escape. Notably, only one individual has ever successfully evaded its confines, solidifying both its status as a place of inescapable detention and the reputation of the escapee, Captain O’Malley.

Notable Individuals

Jackson “Jetstream” Morgan

GNOME, 24, HE/HIM

Jackson “Jetstream” Morgan is a renowned name in the planet-circumnavigating race, the Solstice Circuit. Jackson, the son of the legendary racer Robert “Rocket” Morgan, has carved his own trail of victory within this daring race. Guiding a modest yet dependable six-wheeled vehicle much like his father’s, Jackson has achieved an astonishing feat by securing two consecutive victories in both his size class and the overall race, an accomplishment only achieved once before, by Rocket Morgan. The annual race challenges participants to outpace the sun’s orbit around Solstice using exclusively land vehicles, with strict rules requiring constant ground contact. Jackson has earned respect not just for his unparalleled achievements and mastery of his craft, but also for his amiable nature and impeccable sportsmanship. As Jackson Jetstream continues to dominate the circuit, he epitomizes the pursuit of excellence and the legacy of his celebrated racing lineage.

O’Malley, Captain of the White Corsairs

ELF, 53, SHE/HER

Captain O’Malley holds a notable position as a respected leader within the Corsairs. Displaying a distinct appearance with a bald, scarred head, she leads a faction called the White Corsairs that originated from anarchists and evolved into formidable pirates. O’Malley’s leadership has garnered her the loyalty of a significant fleet under her command. Her methods are brutal, but she is also fair. She would just as easily put a bullet in your brain or raid a communications tower as she would distribute resources to Leeches. O’Malley also holds the distinction of being the only person known to have escaped Hades Prison, a feat which elevated her already fierce reputation. This complex portrayal of leadership blends fear and respect, positioning O’Malley as an influential figure within the Corsairs’ sphere.

Ava “Blackeye” Collins

TIEFLING, 60, SHE/HER

Eva “Blackeye” Collins emerges as a prominent figure in the realm of private investigation, distinguished by her unique Ferrokinetic aptitude. Adept at ferrokinesis, she possesses the remarkable ability to detect and interpret brainwave patterns, enabling an uncanny accuracy in understanding individuals. This expertise, coupled with her fine-tuned skills of perception, contributes to her impressive perfect track record of solving cases. Eva’s choice in cases are mostly driven by personal interest, but she always exhibits a dedication to justice. Her distinctive set of skills, characterized by ferrokinesis and acute analytical insight, positions Eva “Blackeye” Collins as a pivotal figure within the field of private detection.

Smiley Stan

HUMAN, 49, HE/HIM

Smiley Stan, an Alsham Union trader, travels the Coalition in his mobile marketplace known as “Smiley Stan’s Spectacular Shop”. With an infectious charisma and a skill for sparking genuine excitement, Stan captivates audiences through engaging conversations, presenting the finest aspects of his wares while fostering a sense of urgency and delight in his interactions. His traveling emporium, bearing an enormous image of his face on its hull, becomes a focal point of commerce wherever it lands. Stan’s strategy involves monopolizing radio channels and purchasing ad slots upon his arrival in towns, effectively propelling his commercial pursuits. Smiley Stan’s Spectacular shop stands as an example of the differences in mindset between Union and Coalition traders.