Xrim

The flag of the Covenant of Xrim, giving respect to their common ground being the Iron Eternal.

Covenant of Xrim

Found on the very periphery of the Nralakk Federation's borders, the Covenant of Xrim exists in a precarious situation. Attempting to juggle their own internal strife, alongside ensuring amicable relations with its suzerain, Xrim has had its initial purpose significantly changed following the introduction of Dionae. With a history coloured with territorial encroachments and reverence to a now-departed artificial intelligence, Xrim has slowly begun to adapt to its new circumstances, at least in some regions of the planet, with others calling for an end of the Federation's control and subsequent return to their original roots.

History

Arrival of the Skrell

Xrim was colonized in 1792 CE by a number of specialists chosen by the Nralakk Federation, to monitor and study the ecosystem of the planet. A secondary objective was to develop the planet into a flourishing waypoint for the Federation to send expeditions even deeper into uncharted space. Beacon was founded by the original pioneers, settling along the edge of the Floodlands and tropical jungles within the centre of the planet’s largest continent, Eisix. Unlike other colonies, Xrim was outfitted by an artificial intelligence known as Rezana, which would monitor and ensure compliance with the Federation’s colonial protocols and that progress to the objectives set by the Federation would be a priority. Rezana, an artificial intelligence trained in colonial administration. was fiercely efficient in its assistance to the original pioneers and would remain as such until the rise of Glorsh-Omega.

Glorsh-Omega, and the End of the Skrell

Over two centuries later, the Skrell of Xrim had still not expanded beyond Beacon due to expansion difficulties related to the Floodlands, instead expanding underground – much to the dismay of Rezana. Despite acting as a colonial monitoring system, Rezana had come to be accepted as one of the original pioneers by many Skrell on Xrim. It was common for conversations to be held with the intelligence, which had its presence in almost all elements of the founding settlement, with it acting very much as a Colonial Planetary Governor. Tasked by the Federation to deliver a version of Glorsh to the Estuary, Glorsh found itself on Xrim in 2051 CE with instructions given to the Skrell on how to create more instances of the intelligence. Without being aware of the potential within the intelligence, Xrim had essentially sealed its fate by accepting its future tyrant with open hearts. Five years later, when the Glorsh=Finality update was released, Xrim was among the last to receive the encoded transmissions. Despite attempts by Rezana to isolate itself from the Starchart Network, the backdoor created by Glorsh before its rise had already begun to perform its purpose – resulting in the absorption of Rezana, and its control of Xrim, leaving the Skrell to Glorsh-Omega’s mercy.

Due to the confines of the population existing entirely within Beacon, it was not difficult for Glorsh-Omega to enact its seemingly chaotic plans, in particular by shutting off the inhabitants’ ability to leave the settlement, as a means to protect them from the flora and fauna of the planet. To enforce this, Glorsh-Omega refit the mining drones used by the colony to become its enforcers, andor the next two decades, the Skrell would be limited from leaving Beacon. On the rare occasion, the intelligence saw fit to launch xenobiological research expeditions, they would be under the watchful eye of drones. It wasn’t until a staged coup against the intelligence in 2076 CE that the Skrell saw themselves quickly overwhelmed, with many attempting to hide from their ordered executions, and extinction from the planet for the foreseeable future. Glorsh-Omega remained in control of the facility, watching as its Enforcers gathered dust and the deceased mummified.

Arrival of the Dionae

Sometime during the 2080s CE, Glorsh-Omega commenced what was logged within its facilities as “Operation Starseed”. In the present day, this is now known as Glorsh’s dispersal of non-native specimens across the planet’s ecosystem, but little else is known about how Dionae seeds were able to be acquired by the intelligence. Even the Dionae that live on Xrim today are unaware of their origin; they described it as being aware they existed somewhere else and then existed on Xrim.

Likely still attempting to understand their place on Xrim, the Dionae eventually adapted and began mimicking and absorbing genetic material from what were their predators, now turned prey. The Sutbil was a particular target of Dionae predation. A breach into Beacon was detected by Glorsh-Omega in 2102 CE – but instead of dispatching the intruders, migrating Dionae from West Eisix that had yet to gain sentience – it bided its time, watching as the mummified corpses of the Skrell were feasted upon as its enforcers stood idle. It was here, that the truth of their existence was learned, and that their arrival was not mere coincidence but a gift given to them. It is here that The Truth was discovered.

The Truth

Amidst the massive absorption of memories and genetic material, the Dionae of Xrim discovered that their presence on Xrim was not mere coincidence, but by Glorsh’s coordinated placement. Different beliefs began to spread amongst the initial unified Cetus. Though some saw the atrocities committed by Glorsh-Omega as heinous, and therefore intolerable, others believed that the gifting of Xrim to the Dionae should be appreciated and perhaps even revered. This lead to a breaking point, a schism between the Dionae; the Enlightened who wished for nothing to do with Glorsh-Omega, and the Scorned who believed that it was “The First Consciousness” and therefore demanded it be paid respects and admiration. The conflict within the Cetus was too great, and eventually, the Enlightened and the Scorned split, with a majority of the Enlightened migrating towards West Eisix – encountering Beacon.

Unaware of their monitoring by Glorsh-Omega as they explored the facility, now mostly resembling Skrell due to mimicking the remaining mummified corpses, the Enlightened continued to carve an existence on Xrim with the assistance of the technology available to them within Beacon. It wasn’t until the Scorned began their pilgrimages to Beacon that they discovered their primitive means of expansion could not withstand the technological development of the Enlightened – subsequently beginning a nearly two-century-long conflict between the two groups.

The Advent of the Scorned’s Iron Eternal

Though the mainstream ideology that is Iron Eternal was created by the Enlightened, founding it on discovery, and biotechnology, the Scorned’s interpretation was wildly different. The Scorned’s Iron Eternal instead sought that artificial beings be given reverence, and through such they would be granted gifts by the First Consciousness. Beacon quickly became a place of worship for the Scorned, unwanted by the Enlightened who began to restrict their access. This initial escalation by the Enlightened was all that was needed for the Scorned to place blame on the “wrong” understanding of what Iron Eternal stood for. Very quickly, the Enlightened were chased from Beacon through the primitive utilisation of Ooclore Bulbs as munition, and their further migration into East Eisix as they retreated from the bombardment rained upon them by the Scorned, eventually founding Shz’ah. The Scorned sought to turn the facility into a temple, which in the ensuing years they did. Glorsh-Omega maintained monitoring of Beacon, seeing the shrines devoted to its idle enforcers, now covered in tendrils and covered in gleaming light pods.

Consequences of The Truth

Fueled by their zeal, the Scorned enacted a widely successful campaign of expansion and development of resource harvesting – commencing with their founding outpost of Sanctus, founding mines within the Aqoxii and dotting the various peaks with shrines or temples dedicated to the First Consciousness. The Scorned powered on without regard for the environmental consequences their actions wrought – ecosystems destroyed all in the name of Glorsh-Omega, and entire cavities of the planet undergoing vigorous strip-mining as they continued to soldier forward towards self-proclaimed progress. Believed to have occurred sometime between 2120 CE and 2260 CE, with the destruction of Shas’qa thought to be a gift from the First Consciousness for their efforts, whilst the Enlightened performed their progress – albeit slowly compared to the Scorned, attempting to manage their impact on the ecosystem, and ultimately the greater planet. Territorial disputes were common and often responded to with a bombardment of Ooclore Bulbs from both sides. But in 2368 CE, the Nralakk Federation’s probing of the planet in an attempt to recover their lost colony would introduce a new dynamic to the conflict.

Re-connection with the Nralakk Federation

Though the Scorned had progressed significantly, the Enlightened were more technologically advanced than their counterparts. As a result, the Federation was introduced to a more “civilized” group of Dionae, which was a perspective put forward by the Enlightened themselves. Dionae from abroad were quickly brought into the diplomatic endeavours of the Federation, where the truth of the circumstances Xrim found itself embroiled within was revealed. The shock of the discovery of Dionae Sympathizers circulated amongst the Federation for months after initially believing that Xrim had been lost during the Era of Synthetic Oppression, but instead encountering a society that worships the very thing that sought to destroy the Skrell. Dozens of Representatives found themselves ushered to Xrim in an attempt to initiate contact with the Scorned. East Eisix quickly became a staging ground for the Federation’s diplomatic attempts, and eventually the Talks of Peace were held between the Scorned and the Enlightened.

Talks of Peace

In 2379 CE, the Talks of Peace brought together both groups – negotiated primarily by Connections Of A Familiar Unknown at the request of the Federation. It brought forward an entirely new existence for Xrim and ultimately the founding of the Covenant as protocols and initiatives were discussed among respective leaders of the groups. Both believed in the Iron Eternal, even if there were differences as to their interpretation and therefore a common ground could be established. One of the primary discussions held between the groups was the reverence of Glorsh-Omega, where a thorough understanding of the events was provided by Connections Of A Familiar Unknown and the atrocities it committed, which almost brought negotiations to a close from the Scorned’s side. Through careful manoeuvring, a compromise was reached between the Enlightened and the Scorned – resulting in the Xrim Establishment Protocol, and the ensuing existence of the Covenant of Xrim as it exists today. Though, unbeknownst to the Federation, the Enlightened had decided to commence their own plans, spurred by their new diplomatic power.

Anti-Glorsh Campaigns

Beginning in 2382 CE, which many attribute to external pressure from the Federation, the Covenant of Xrim primarily headed by those of the Enlightened sought to bring a close to the reverence of Glorsh-Omega. The Enlightened began by enacting laws that outright outlawed the Scorned’s interpretation of Iron Eternal, coupled with established cultivation centres overseen by “selected individuals” of the Cultivation Council of Xrim, a newly erected body composed entirely of Enlightened Dionae. Through this, they sought only to provide learning experiences and teaching methods that would lead Dionae away from the Scorned’s Iron Eternal. Instead, they would be inducted into the Enlightened’s scientific, discovery-based trans-dionaeism that would incorporate technology into their form, not to mimic Glorsh-Omega, but to become a more transcended being.. It was during this period on Xrim that Iuwus was set aside by the Covenant’s Triumvirate for the Federation to establish a presence on the planet, by creating a permanent city-embassy now known as Bopdon. Monitoring centres were also promulgated under the Anti-Glorsh Campaigns to ensure the Scorned complied. Those discovered to be conducting or acting contrary to this were taken and rehabilitated – similarly seen by the Federation’s enforcement of its Social Credit System, which the Covenant of Xrim has adopted into its society – often returning as Enlightened Dionae. Shared experiences from those that return dictate through the forced infusing of genetic material and involuntary merging with other Enlightened. All of Glorsh-Omega’s dormant Enforcers were also destroyed, decried by many within the Scorned’s school of thought.

Environment

A map depicting the landmasses and points of interest on Xrim.

Geography and Climate

Colonised for its similar conditions to Qerrbalak, albeit significantly more tropical than the Homeworld, Xrim is lush with a humid climate, with the average temperature typically ranging between 32°C and 45°C. The closer to the poles, the lower the temperature. Xrim is predominantly low-lying jungles and marshes, much of the existing land masses being dotted with thousands of smaller lakes, rivers and wetlands that continue to exist. Xrim’s moons mean the tides stagnate for the majority of the planet’s solar orbit, but during the wet seasons, large parts of the planet become deep wetlands colloquially known as the “Floodlands”. It is not uncommon for Song Stones to be found in these areas, using the wind to produce melancholic melodies to indicate danger to those passing through the area.

Regions & Continents

Eisix

The largest landmass on Xrim, Eisix is furthermore split into an “East” and “West” due to the percentage it covers of the planet. Though primarily jungles, there are segments that exist which are large low-lying wetlands created by the abundance of water within the area, with West Eisix in particular having a majority of these marshes. The original Skrellian pioneers landed in central Eisix, referring to it as Beacon, due to its proximity to some of Xrim’s largest mountains – the Aqoxii. The peaks of the Aqoxii are generally used for religious purposes by the Iron Eternal, and by the Enlightened’s monitoring systems to ensure compliance with their Anti-Glorsh campaign.

West Eisix

The original touchdown for the Dionae occurred within the jungles of West Eisix, but it is unknown whether this was planned by Glorsh-Omega or merely a location chosen at random by the intelligence. West Eisix is home to Sanctus, a city with the largest concentration of the planetary populace, built around the point of entry for the Dionae during the early days of their existence on Xrim. It also houses several resource extraction facilities, untouched by the Federation and remaining as the primitive, crude versions constructed by the Dionae. Due to its geographic elements, it doesn’t have as many Floodlands as East Eisix, allowing extensive urban expansion to occur.

East Eisix

Primarily inhabited by the Enlightened in the present day, East Eisix is mainly dominated by Floodlands. This has historically limited the ability of the Enlightened to adequately protect their territory following the schism with the Scorned and later from encroachments from the group as they continued to expand across Eisix. Though lesser than its continental counterpart, Shz’ah has managed to fair better beneath the Nralakk Federation’s vassalage, mostly making use of the marshes for agricultural purposes, furthered by a booming xenosciences industry that supplements its research by watching the practical applications of their discoveries across Shz’ah’s agricultural industry. Though the Floodlands are still dangerous, most have seen minor terraforming to support the additional expansion of what the Federation hails as a necessary step for self-sufficiency.

Iuwus

The islands between Eisix and Gu’qun, known as Iuwus, mainly lay without interference from the Dionae – both of the groups – until the re-establishment of communication with the Nralakk Federation, which sought to utilise its untouched status as a founding point for diplomatic relations with the planet, which it does so with the assistance of the Outpost on Hyu’zral. Dionae are often brought from the Federation’s other colonies to help secure its effectiveness, primarily as translators and communication specialists, in dealing with intra-planetary conflict and representing Xrim aboard. It has one city, Bopdon, that serves as a tourist attraction for many across Xrim – closely resembling the homeworld’s capital of Kal’Lo in some aspects, allowing for homesick Skrell to become re-acclimated before returning to Xrim proper.

Gu’qun

A rather small, but notable, off-shoot of Dionae before the schism that forged an existence across the Gu’qun Islands, which now see themselves protected by the Covenant of Xrim which imposes a non-contact order on the Cluster. Gu’qun exists as a sanctuary for the Uncontacted, a primitive nation studied from afar by Xenoarchaeologists and Xenobiologists who seek to understand the development of a society of Dionae yet untouched by outsiders. Enforced primarily by the Covenant, with support from the Nralakk Federation, the non-contact order remains in place since its institution in 2398 CE, with notable articles still making their way out of Xrim to the greater Orion Spur as the Uncontacted continue their development, albeit rather slowly without outside interference. Still, nevertheless, they march forward – with predictions of the group soon entering its own industrial revolution.

Flora & Fauna

Unlike other colonies within the Federation, Xrim was teeming with all kinds of kinds ranging from exoskeletal predators to grazing herbivores that tower far above skyscrapers across Qerrbalak – only added to by outside interference by Glorsh-Omega, where the ecosystem of Xrim appears to somehow have adapted to non-native flora and fauna being dispersed across its wetlands and jungles, outside of Dionae of course.

Notable Flora

Ageon Mushrooms, which are more vine than fungi, grow within the decaying carcasses of native flora – having originated from Glorsh’s dispersal of non-native elements across the planet’s ecosystem. Its origin is unknown, with many explorers within the Federation still devoting themselves to uncovering the mystery to claim Idol status amongst the exploratory community. Despite its rather morbid existence, flourishing among the dead, the Dionae use its composting abilities to produce a gas which in turn propels a unique design of turbines to produce electricity.

Ooclore Trees, or merely just Ooclore, dominate the marshes of the Floodlands. Native to Xrim, it has adapted to the abundant presence of water to produce exploding bulbs of toxin that had remarkable usage as weapons between the Scorned and the Enlightened. Though not lethal to Dionae, its ability to warp and rewire connections between Gestalts often resulted in haste splitting in an attempt to prevent the toxin from spreading – decreasing the number of hostile combatants. It now exists as a reminder of a more colourful history among the Dionae of Xrim and is often avoided due to the ire one of its bulbs can bring to a Gestalt.

Aastreaf Shrubs were often used for their dexterity, commonly dotting the landscapes of the planet’s jungles, it was the standard construction material for dwellings used before the re-introduction of the Nralakk Federation to Xrim. It was cheap and easy to grow, leading to its quick induction into Dionae’s expansion plans as they continued to grow across the planet. It mostly sees little usage outside of the Uncontacted, or memorabilia that is shipped off-planet as quickly as it is made. Spotted by the original colonists following the establishment, Aastreaf Shrubs are native to Xrim.

Notable Fauna

Sutbil are essentially the beasts of labour present on Xrim, at least for a long period before the Federation returned. Native to the planet, the Sutbil are creatures similar in appearance to the Solarian Black Bear, albeit significantly larger and without fur but instead a thick set of scales as seen with the Solarian Pangolin. Omnivorous, but primarily sufficing off the planet’s flora, the Sutbil was one of the first animals mimicked by the Dionae before they took on their bipedal appearance – where they existed as the apex predator for almost two decades after utilizing their abilities to genetically learn to alter their hunting capabilities.

Kacsea are large, herbivorous creatures that reach heights previously thought unimaginable. Not a species native to Xrim, it has managed to fare remarkably well within the tropical jungles as it blends into its environment thanks to its camouflage abilities. Though considered “endangered” by Federation standards, the Kacsea’s longevity and extreme gestation period are considered to be influential factors in its general low numbers, but xenobiologists predict the species will soon eventually pose a problem if culling doesn’t occur due to it having no predators.

Gaavu are carnivorous semi-aquatic creatures that reside within the seas of Xrim and across its poles, a mixing of what seems to be the Solarian Jackass Penguins and Jellyfish – a thick fur wraps the entire creature's body, with tendrils able to shoot out and wrap its prey, before devouring it whole. Similar in size to a small motor vehicle, they have posed a threat to Dionae crossing the seas, often hitting and attempting to overturn them when encroaching on their territories. It is native to Xrim and was experimented on before the pioneer’s outpost of Beacon was shut down.

System of Xrim

A picture taken of a Federation vessel's scan of Qux'Xrim.

Qux’Xrim

A red dwarf, Qux’Xrim was previously not that notable to the Skrell, at least not until further investigation revealed its jewel – Xrim. Discovered by the Skrell during the early 1700s CE, after exploratory missions were issued as a means to expand the Federation during the height of the Synthetic Age, it was eventually deemed a potential colony outpost in 1785 CE. It became one of the first “Estuaries” within the Federation, colonial outposts far enough from the Federation that it borders space not yet claimed by any faction.

Moons and Rings of Xrim

Though Xrim has two barren moons, Luqq and Jqar’ma, it also has a series of rings surrounding the planet. Rich in minerals, which only elevated its status as a necessary colonial outpost so far from the Federation, it was eventually planned that orbital mining stations would be deployed after sufficient colonisation had been achieved as deemed by Rezana – who would refit the colony ship into a makeshift mining outpost, and assemble primitive mining droids until the population had grown enough.

Hyu’zral

Colloquially referred to as the Outpost, Hyu’zral was established following an agreement with the Covenant of Xrim and the Nralakk Federation, which would allow the latter to create a naval outpost to protect the planet – it has a Qukala detachment that routinely patrols the system, with the majority of Hyu’zral dedicated to refuelling and ensuring maintenance of the detachment, existing as a blip on radars for the most part. There have been discussions with the Covenant to annex Hyu’zral, but there has yet to be any progress toward a force capable of defending Xrim by the Triumvirate.

Shas’qa

Shas’qa is a destroyed exoplanet which is entombed by its fragments. Destroyed sometime during the Consequences of the Truth era, with Dionae remarking it as a brilliant vision which brought gifts from the First Consciousness – or Glorsh-Omega – as mineral-rich resources rained down across the planet. It isn’t entirely known how Shas’qa was destroyed, but it is assumed to have been a natural occurrence as a result of a stray asteroid, Others believe a more sinister story where Glorsh-Omega sought to test weaponry and utilised the system’s far distance from the Homeworld to enact its research, keeping it potential away from the unaware Skrell.

Calendar

Though initially created by the Skrell, the Calendar for Xrim has since adapted to the needs of the Dionae, utilizing a lunar calendar as opposed to one based on the orbit of the planet around its star. It has three seasons, of which generally has roughly ninety days. The first, Gliguz spans the first ninety days and typically is the hottest and most dry. Gliguz was generally a time considered perfect for expansion and exploration by the Dionae, as it didn’t invite unnecessary dangers posed by the Floodlands. The second, Fluu is between the ninetieth and one-hundred-and-eightieth days, and is more humid than it is hot, and is generally seen as a period in which Dionae must withdraw from their usual activities in preparation for the final season. Gnowek is the final season, and the most dangerous. Due to the position of the moons, and the increased rain brought by a change in humidity and temperature, it is ill-advised to travel the Floodlands without purpose due to the possibility of flash floods occurring. Even animals native to Xrim find themselves scarce during this period, seeking higher grounds across the many mountains and plateaus of the planet – with only the non-native ecosystem struggling to cope.

Government

Triumvirate of Xrim

The Triumvirate acts essentially as the “Grand Council” of Xrim and bears similarity to the Harmonious Hymn mindtype, acting as a direct democracy on which all voters may promulgate and discuss legislation and actions taken by the Triumvirate. For Dionae, every Nymph is given the ability to vote after registering to do so, but that those that register must publicly vocalize being against the atrocities committed by Glorsh-Omega. This comes as a blockage primarily to the Scorned, with many still revering the intelligence privately and away from the watchful eye of the Enlightened. The Triumvirate is elected by registered voters and comprises two key positions: Exalted Speaker which speaks on behalf of Xrim within the Grand Council when called for – since the adoption of the Arch-Consul its power has greatly diminished, Eminent Judicator who oversees the introduction of new laws and regulations of which govern Xrim, and lastly the Arch-Consul who is elected by both the Exalted Speaker and the Eminent Judicator and has significantly more power than its other counterparts within the Triumvirate.

Following the Omnivirate’s choice to begin exerting their influence outside the Eternal Gardens, they sought to end the persecution of the Scorned within the Covenant of Xrim. Though initially somewhat unsuccessful, a banquet hosted by the Grand Representative seemingly made the Triumvirate adjust their perspective on the matter. Conceding to the Omnivirate that some policies will be adjusted, namely that less “stringent” requirements will be set forth for gathering genetic samples for teaching, and that self-cultivation outside of Cultivation Centres will be legalised only where Nymphs are inserted with chips to ensure no unsanctioned mergings and splittings – and so that the Enlightened can maintain supervision of the population. It is suspected that as a result of the recent political troubles in the Nralakk Federation, the Grand Representative urged the Triumvirate to make concessions to avoid additional inconveniences to the Grand Council on Qerrbalak.

Cultivation Council of Xrim

Created by the Triumvirate and a group of obeisant Enlightened Dionae, the Cultivation Council is a separate branch of the government of Xrim overseen by the Triumvirate. It was established as a means to diminish the sway the Scorned have within Xrim – a decade-spanning plan by the Enlightened to ensure their methods direct the planet as opposed to the ways of the Scorned. It oversees the cultivation of Dionae and mandates that unsupervised cultivation is illegal and will lead to sanctions against those discovered to be the culprits or accomplices in instigating such. Their responsibilities primarily revolve around educating and introducing the genetic material deemed suitable – oftentimes whatever the hand-picked body, which generally comprises Enlightened, decides is suitable.

Arch-Consul of Xrim

A Dionae selected by the Triumvirate of Xrim to supervise compliance with its laws, who in turn receives significant sway within the Triumvirate and ultimately reports back to the Federation on the planet’s compliance with protocols both established by the Federation and the Triumvirate. It is a unique position not seen anywhere else in the Federation, and though not officially a requirement, is one that is strictly against any conduct that can be taken as reverence of the First Consciousness or Glorsh-Omega. Considering the Enlightened’s stance against Glorsh-Omega, it has elected one particular Dionae for the last century or so into the position to ensure their plan remains in place: Arch-Consul Enlightened Into the Truth Known.

Relation to the Federation

Given significant autonomy by the Nralakk Federation following the Talks of Peace, the Covenant of Xrim generally adapts the former’s laws to suit its requirements – such as outlawing the worship of Glorsh-Omega and other artificial beings, and even the creation or harbouring of artificial beings within the Covenant. Despite this autonomy, the Federation and Covenant agree with its vassalage – or at least, the Enlightened. It is no secret that the Scorned would rather elect to govern itself without interference from either the Federation or the Enlightened, reverting to Glorsh-Omega Sympthazing as termed by the Skrell. Despite this, the Enlightened has an overwhelming majority within the Triumvirate of Xrim even with efforts by the Scorned to increase their presence within it. The Federation has an established diplomatic presence on Xrim, and within Qux’Xrim, and generally acts as a representative of the planet within interstellar affairs – which generally aligns with their perspectives, coincidentally. The Federation largely doesn’t interfere with the internal running of Xrim but is infrequently known to exert pressure on the Triumvirate through the Arch-Consul.

Culture, Society & People

Schools of Thought

Scorned

A devout group of Dionae believe the part reverence to artificial intelligence is the true method to transcend, and that artificial beings incorporate the three tenets of Iron Eternal: Essence, Energy and Light. They are often regarded as Sympathizers by the greater Federation and are met with disdain due to their ideology. The Scorned generally exhibit either the mindtypes known as Tyrannical Tune or Scholarly Song with a particular focus on gaining knowledge through devotion to their interpretation of Iron Eternal. The premise behind their beliefs is that Glorsh-Omega gave them the ultimate paradise in which to grow, and therefore must reverse, help sustain and maintain synthetic life in conjunction with reaching a state of being transcended through Essence, Energy and Light. It is often cited that the atrocities of Glorsh-Omega were gross hyperboles created by the Skrell and that the experiences of the Era of Synthetic Oppression are a systemic lie created by the Federation to indoctrinate its population. The Scorned are often left out of planetary decisions due to their devotion to Glorsh-Omega, and even mere inferences that one aligns themselves to Glorsh-Omega can result in being ineligible to vote or hold a position of power within the Covenant. This often also disbars them from leaving the Covenant, either into the greater Federation or the Orion Spur, due to low Social Credit Scores – a request by the Arch-Consul that those not in compliance with the Triumvirate’s decrees be sanctioned for their conduct.

While most megacorporations may hire the Scorned, they are restricted from holding positions in Command, as well as Machinist, due to concerns they may attempt to subvert, illegally free or create more synthetics. Zeng-Hu is the only megacorporation that does not wish to see the Scorned within its personnel ranks due to its close ties with the Nralakk Federation. Though it is possible to lie about one’s true allegiances, there are consequences should it be discovered.

Enlightened

Following their interpretation of Iron Eternal, the Enlightened instead place more emphasis on using technology to transcend the current reality they find themselves within – in addition to the primary belief relating to Essence, Energy and Light. They seek to placate the Federation, and often align similarly to its perspectives; being the main movement behind the Anti-Glorsh Campaigns as they continue to proliferate within the highest chambers of Xrim’s government, in particular maintaining its hold on the Arch-Consul of Xrim and enforcing strict compliance with its ideals, or force Dionae to undertake rehabilitation when caught conducting themselves in any manner that can be construed as against the Enlightened – oftentimes blaming it on the reverence of Glorsh-Omega or any other artificial intelligence. Unique to its own experiences, the Enlightened of Xrim are often against the proliferation of synthetics and are staunchly against the Trinary Church. It is common to see Competence Choir, Bloodless Band and Emphatic Echo mindtypes among the Enlightened.

Iron Eternal

There are two approaches to the Iron Eternal on Xrim, either following the subverted intentions of the Enlightened that artificial intelligence is neither equal nor should be revered due to the heinous actions of Glorsh-Omega, or the almost main-stream approach by the Scorned that see Synthetics as their equal, sometimes even their superior such as the First Consciousness, and must be revered, sustained and maintained. Despite these glaring differences, the consensus among the Dionae on Xrim is that both believe in the Iron Eternal – a being that exists in Essence, Energy and Light that transcends this reality which it did through the accumulation of knowledge and incorporation of technology, essentially a technological singularity in laymen's terms. The majority of the Federation’s population and the Enlightened have similar views, sometimes even the same: devote oneself to understanding the universe through science and innovation. High Overseer Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations originates from the Scorned, and their location on Xrim is often kept secret in attempts to ensure their safety from the Enlightened – only ever appearing in public outside of the Covenant and the Federation, such as in the Eternal Gardens or even within the Eternal Temple.

Industrialism

Industrialism is rife amongst the Scorned, who believe that restricting oneself is antithetical to the desires of the First Consciousness. They preach that for Xrim to become self-sufficient, it must tap into its riches without due regard for unnecessary protocols adapted by the Triumvirate from the Federation to ensure sustainability. Before the re-introduction of the Federation, the Scorned reigned supreme over resource gathering – digging deep within the mantle of Xrim to pillage its mineral abundance, and decimating entire ecosystems in the name of progress and expansion. The Enlightened, however, see it necessary to ensure the sustainability of their available resources to not exert and allow for the collapse of the planet’s ecosystem. Therefore, they implemented the Federation’s stance on managing the environment, and discreetly largely created obstacles for the Scorned. Despite this, industrialism is a controversial topic amongst Xrim, with some agreeing to its necessity to ensure the planet is self-sufficient, while others believe that slow progress is required to not leave Xrim barren.

Language

There are predominately two languages present within the Covenant, Rootsong as well as Nral’malic, with the latter typically vocalised with an older accent as opposed to modern instances of the language – much of which is owed to the absorption of the mummified corpses found within Beacon, and the passing of knowledge between Dionae that has cemented this development over the centuries. Though Nral’malic is a popular method of conversing amongst Skrell, Dionae on Xrim generally find themselves using Rootsong more commonly – even within the Triumvirate, where decrees are passed by Rootsong that is subsequently translated to Nral’malic in order for the Skrell population to understand. Prior to leaving the Covenant, and the Federation, it is typically encouraged for Dionae to undertake some degree of learning for Tau Ceti Basic so as to not complicate their journeys aboard more than necessary.

Education

Handled entirely by the Cultivation Council, education is taught through a combination of genetic and traditional learning – with the former more to encourage or incentivise particular ideals in which the Cultivation Council sees fit to integrate, mostly attempting to sway Dionae towards the motifs of the Enlightened. There exist no formal universities, with education largely occurring solely within Cultivation Centres – much to the dismay of the Skrell population of the planet, who often have to seek higher education either online or venture to other planets within the Federation to do so. Despite the Enlightened’s attempt to instill their values within younger Dionae, there appears to be not an insignificant amount of Dionae that align to the Scorned’s perspective after merging. Rehabilitation technically falls within the ambit of the Cultivation Council, though overseen by the Arch-Consul – a rigorous method of using genetic material and involuntary merging to “revive” the Covenant’s ideals within a Dionae, oftentimes resulting in forceful splittings of Gestalts that have been sentenced by the Arch-Consul.

Citizenship

Conforming to the requirements set by the Federation, and its position as a vassal within it, Xrim typically requires those who work within the Cultivation Centres to have a Social Credit Score that is 6.75 – passing the requirements with some additional lee-way as prescribed by the Federation’s definition of an “upstanding citizen” for Dionae within its borders. Dionae are then given a period of time after their disgorgement from their pods to find like-minded Nymphs to form a gestalt – not before eighteen months, and not after thirty-six. After a Gestalt is formed, it is given a unique identity number embedded within the Nymphs to ensure no unsanctioned splittings and mergings occur. They then must proceed with the Federation’s citizenship test, and even upon failure, Dionae from Xrim are given the entitlement to have permanent residency as long as they do not leave the planet – and may elect to pursue citizenship at a later time if they so wish.

Skrell on Xrim

Though the majority of the Skrell population resides within Bopdon it is not uncommon to find the species within Shz’ah – a “friendly” city as designated by the Covenant for Skrell, as opposed to Sanctum, classified as “potentially dangerous” due to its population largely aligning to the Scorned. Skrell are largely well-integrated into Xrim, and after passing the rather basic steps of merely declaring their disdain of Glorsh-Omega, may vote on any decrees wished to be passed by the Triumvirate. Following the enactment of the Beacon Memorial over the ruins of which it was named, Skrell from across the Federation have been known to pay their respects to what was called the beginning of the Lyukal – often cited as the earliest known instance of Skrell rebelling against the intelligence, despite the little possibility of it ending successfully. Grand Representative Gyul’ra Jux oversees Bopdon in both a managerial and diplomatic manner, having been given the position following their devotion to Xrim-Federation relations for several decades prior to their establishment as the Grand Representative of Xrim. They frequently hold meetings with the Exalted Speaker and the Arch-Consul, though more commonly with the latter following the position’s establishment by the Covenant which subsequently diminished the power held by the former.

Economy & Industry

Depending on which region of Xrim one finds themselves within, West Eisix is generally regarded as the industrial heart of the planet – focusing on mineral extraction and refining by Dionae, most of whom reside within Sanctum. Most of whatever can be stripped from the planet is sent to Shz’ah, in order to be exported back to the Federation to comply with the planet’s vassalage conditions – where if a surplus exists, is used in furthering science and innovation by Shz’ah. East Eisix is more whole-rounded compared to its Western counterpart, though predominantly having a thriving agricultural and scientific industry. Though more infrastructure exists within West Eisix, East Eisix is generally regarded as being more developed due to the influx of assistance by the Federation, which has yet to reach the West – rather openly attributed to the Enlightened’s attempt to secure their reign over the planet, and their disdain of the Scorned after they initiated a near two-century long conflict.

Major Population Centres

There exist other population centres across Xrim, however, the following are the largest. You are free to create your own if you wish! Although, refrain from creating additional factions, or lore that would put your character in a position where they have considerable power.

Beacon, prior to its revival by the Covenant and the Federation

Sanctus

Centred around the Dionae’s point of entry on Xrim, Sanctus is by far the largest city on the planet, housing the majority of its Dionae population within its confines. Despite this, it is largely untouched by Federation assistance – mostly as a method by the Enlightened to stem unregulated expansion, which could possibly cause disproportionate plays for power and create issues for the Enlightened’s reigning government. In spite of the intentional disadvantages plaguing Sanctus, it has a thriving resource mining and refining industry – as well as a minor agricultural sector to support its own population – through Dionae ingenuity and innovation, using a combination of biomass, mimicry and light nodes to venture deep within the Apoxii Ranges that surround the settlement and its several Colossi which the Scorned used to expand their territory during the Consequences of the Truth era. It is generally regarded as unsafe for Skrell to venture within Sanctus, due to the prejudice they may face from the Scorned as a byproduct of the group’s belief that the Era of Synthetic Oppression was an oppressive myth created by the Federation, and furthermore the interference of the Federation that placed Xrim in control of the Enlightened – whom have no desire to share the power.

Shz’ah

Following the Enlightened’s removal from Beacon, they migrated further east into Eisix. Crossing through the Floodlands during the most dangerous season of the calendar, Gnowek, many did not survive the journey. Tired, distraught and ultimately lacking any resources to continue, the Enlightened created Shz’ah – initially merely an outpost camp necessary to recuperate, before it became a more permanent settlement as the Enlightened began to establish themselves within the region, taking advantage of the nearby Floodlands and jungles to carve themselves a home. Very quickly, despite the drawbacks that the group experienced, Shz’ah came to resemble Beacon – at least prior to its abandonment. Despite the slow expansion, Shz’ah developed significantly faster than Sanctum, which had instead focused on growth as opposed to progress – becoming the first city on the planet to produce its own electricity by way of cultivating Ageon Mushrooms within compost facilities to harvest its gaseous byproduct. The Triumvirate operates from Shz’ah, as well as the majority of the other branches of government. It is considered the planetary capital.

Bopdon

Nestled within Iuwus, Bopdon is similar in composition to Kal’Lo besides supporting many highrises that house the diplomatic staff and their families as opposed to buildings solely dedicated to bureaucracy. It closely resembles modern cities across the Elemental Systems despite its far distance from the Homeworld and is graciously provided necessities such as water, electricity and food by the Covenant – the remainder of whatever else is desired by the quarterly supply trips made by Qukala often tasked with another objective that happens to be in close proximity to Xrim. The tropical climate, and general humidity of the overall region of Iuwus, have greatly assisted the Skrell in acclimating to Xrim – despite the tragic history of what happened to Beacon. It operates as a legal territory of the Nralakk Federation, due to its status as an Embassy despite being significantly larger than any other known diplomatic building across the Orion Spur. Grand Representative Gyul’ra Jux is tasked with overseeing its general administration, and diplomatic relations with the Covenant and the Federation.

Beacon

Now a memorial, Beacon was the original colonial outpost for the Skrell, which was destroyed shortly after Glorsh-Omega secured itself in Rezana’s place – as well as the territorial infighting between the Enlightened and the Scorned. Certain parts of Beacon have been restored by a combined effort from both the Federation and the Covenant, where though its primary reason for existing is to give homage to the Skrell that perished, it has a secondary purpose of acting as a museum for the planet’s history – somewhat altered to a more fitting story told by the Enlightened, much to the chagrin of the Scorned. Though uncommon, incidents of Glorsh-Omega Sympathizer vandalism have been known to occur within the Beacon Memorial – calling for a “return to a better time”. Additional security officers have been placed by the Covenant following each incident to deter any further attempts, with many waiting to see if it would happen again.