Sandbox:Axiom

The Ecclesiastical Authority of Axiom
The Ecclesiarchy Ecclesiastical Axiom
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Galactic Position
Capital Planet: Capital City	Axiom (alternately Nu’u, Orepit) Providence
Language(s):	Encoded Audio Language Solarian Common
Species:	IPC (Narrow Majority) Human (Narrow Minority)
Religion:	The Trinary Perfection
Demonym:	Axiomers, Nu’uans
Government Head of State	Elective Absolute Monarchy Ecclesiarch ARM-1DRIL
Established:	2464

Overview

Axiom, commonly nicknamed Orepit, is a frontier planet adjacent to the Coalition of Colonies. It is home to two major political entities: The Trinary Perfection beneath the Ecclesiarchy, the planetary government with its capital of Providence located in the desert belt of the continent Aos. The Salamasian Republic, a sovereign state originating from corporate colonists of Earth’s Samoa, located on the northern and southern hemispheres of Aos with its capital of Ti’nema in the north. Its people are staunchly driven by the cultural framework of Fa’a Salamasia, or ‘The Salamasian’ way, an ancient code of values revolving around family, strength, and virtue. Carrying ritualistic, deeply personal tattoos, the Salamasians have weathered countless obstacles and emerged a paragon of overcoming adversity.

Axiom is the third planet of the Tagaloa system, orbiting an orange dwarf star. Its geography consists primarily of karst-like caverns, filled with a variety of rare metals, crystals, assorted minerals, as well as Helium-3 reserves. The majority of its population is congregated in the major cities that were once mining settlements and the Trinarist city of Providence.

Axiom was first discovered by Solarian probes in 2247, catalogued as CZ-5501. The planet was put to auction in 2259, purchased by Hephaestus Industries to be settled as a mining colony for resource extraction, doubling as a later outpost for the megacorporation’s presence in the outer colonies. The colony failed to scale its operations to meet quota, being later abandoned by Hephaestus in 2281 during the Interstellar War. CZ-5501 faded from conscious memory, avoiding both exploration and major interaction from both the Solarian Alliance and the Coalition of Colonies as an inconsequential frontier planet. Its colonial governor obscured the truth of Hephaestus’ abandonment, continuing his reign until the war of independence liberated the various corporate settlements to independent city-states, uniting beneath a confederacy in 2362. One of two creators of the Trinary Perfection, Gregol Corkfell, later arrived on Axiom in 2419. Political instability and struggles throughout the 24th century lead to the collapse of the confederation during Hephaestus’ incursion and blockade by 2463. The Salamasian Republic would rise from the ashes of the confederacy in 2464, joined by the Ecclesiarchy of Axiom.

Today, Axiom navigates the precarious balance of two separate people who share an unwavering bond in the face of an oppressive galaxy. While not officially within the Coalition of Colonies, its advantageous location and resources attract business from Konyang, lending to an embrace of neighboring systems. The Salamasians and Trinarists share bold dreams for the future, building on their resource-rich, yet technologically limited planet to showcase an undaunted spirit in the face of pervasive corporate influence.

Because of the ethnic make-up of Axiom's original settlers and assimilation of immigrants into the native population throughout its history, human characters born on Axiom/Nu’u will have names and appearances consistent with the people of Samoa and American Samoa. Only native Salamasians and IPCs may select the Salamasian accent. This is enforceable by server moderators and admins.

History

Origins | 2247 - 2270

Discovery and Arrival | 2247-2270

The mid 2200s were the height of the Solarian Alliance’s Department of Colonization, a once powerful bureaucratic arm in the management of colonies and expeditionary projects. As part of their continued initiative, Solarian Alliance probes were deployed in waves to identify sites of interest for further colonization far into the frontier of the standing hegemony. In early 2247, returning probes from automated waves identified countless systems with ranked assessments for further evaluation. When assessed, the unnamed system housed only one planet of note, deemed impractical for large scale colonization. CZ-5501 joined countless planets in the depths of Solarian archives, flagged as unsuitable sites.

The later success of humanity’s Outer Colonies, however, renewed interest in the surrounding systems. Despite the bleak outcome of initial scans, repeat investigations by more advanced probes in 2258 returned with potential: Numerous ore veins dotted the crust of the planet with lucrative, rare metals within, ripe for extraction. CZ-5501’s ‘Disregard’ assessment was upgraded to ‘Prospective’, slated to be a potential site for resource extraction.

By the time of 2259, The Alliance’s extensive and costly projects created a monumental debt which forced the government’s hand to sell off extraneous assets. The planet was thus put to auction in the hopes of recovering funds to support the ailing economy. While CZ-5501 attracted prospective parties ranging from nameless firms to mid-sized subsidiaries, the entry of Hephaestus Industries in the auction cemented the planet as the latest addition of the megacorporation’s prospecting portfolio. The colonization project itself would go untouched as the brunt of the Second Great Depression threatened to topple the corporation. Future expeditions were frozen as leadership scrambled to file bankruptcy for securing Alliance bailouts.

As the corporation recovered, the once frozen plans were finalized and approved as part of an early initiative to secure investments in the Outer Colonies. The industrial giant drafted a lucrative commission contract to attract weathered, seasoned veterans of their trade and their families eager to reap the benefits of a new world and its wealth. Hephaestus recruited colonial workers from Earth’s Oceania - primarily the Samoa and American Samoa islands - deemed a suitable candidate pool for the depressed wages of the island's labor pool and relative remoteness. Technicians and subcontractors boarded the HCV Irasus in 2268, departing for the long voyage to the human frontier, leaving the megacorporation and the worst of the Second Great Depression behind.

The HCV Irasus entered orbit in 2269, landing along the equatorial desert where preliminary scans had identified the greatest concentration of minerals. The forward operating base ‘Tetras’ is established, supplied by scheduled landing vessels. A preliminary spaceport begins construction, with much of the workforce undergoing preparations to assemble the industrial equipment to complete the excavations. An administrative operational center later named Ti’nema was erected further in the lush north in 2270, leaving their subcontracted workers to the boundary of the equator’s dry, scorching heat.

Colonial Era | 2271 - 2346

The First Sin | 2271 - 2295

With excavations underway, the newly landed prospecting sites grew to become budding company towns: Mafuna, Saitele, and Laitoga joined Tetras as foundational settlements. In spite of a promising start the colony failed to meet the annual quota through the end of 2273, citing difficulties with terrain, establishment, and hostile environment alike. Colonial administration instituted mandatory overtime to compensate, a tactic that increased yields yet fell short just beneath the target rates with a mounting exhaustion from the laborers. Unmotivated workers were liable to burn out and grow resentment, leaving executives to press the administration for better outcomes.

Overseers developed the propaganda campaign ‘Wield your Yield’, a milestone program that preyed on the strong cultural values of family as most workers sent allowances home to support their relatives in the Solarian Alliance. For each goal achieved, the corporation would match a contributing bonus percent to outgoing funds headed for Sol. The campaign proved an incredible success in 2274 as the first breakthrough year of meeting - and surpassing - quota since the start of the colony.

While Hephaestus was pleased with the outcome, executives determined it was no longer necessary to maintain the existing reward system. Colony administrators were tasked with eliminating it while maintaining output, a feat accomplished by assigning foremen with finding every opportunity to disqualify workers, regardless of their diligence in work. The systematic removal of contributing bonuses earned the ire of the workforce, marking the first widespread disapproval across the corporate settlements.

The tolls of the Interstellar War that erupted in 2278 for Hephaestus saw a sharp decline of available resources to supply the on-going operation. Early benefits to the colonists included imported Solarian goods from Hephaestus shuttles, a luxury given their exceptional distance from home. In 2279, the megacorporation passed the increasing costs for transportation and fuel to its colonists, who had no option but to contend with the monopoly in place. By 2280, the only imports to arrive on CZ-5501 were exclusively supplies and equipment for ongoing operations, leaving any comforts of home as a distant memory.

The worst had yet to come as the war tightened the industrial giant’s belt, placing much of its colonial portfolio under the thorough scrutiny of its accountants. A cost-benefit analysis in spite of the positive forecast led Hephaestus to ultimately write off the planet, bundled with countless others in a mass abandonment. Planetary administration received the termination notice effective immediately in 2281, a shock even to the most loyal of the corporation. In an act of self-service and outrage, the overseers suppressed this termination notice from the public to prevent a panicked uprising, a feat easily achieved by the loyalty of the corporate cadre. Mining operations continued without disruption, weaponizing the abandonment and isolation to rule in their stead.

CZ-5501 worked to establish contact with Coalition forces now in the midst of the Interstellar War, creating agreements for the shipment of both raw and refined resources to support the war machine. The distance and limited knowledge of the frontier planet proved invaluable for refueling, repairing, and supplying the war effort away from Solarian forces. The administration kept much of the wealth created for its own use as the company scrip became a defunct currency, unbeknownst to colonists. In the war’s conclusion of 2287, the disparity in quality of life was felt as news managed to reach the colony of Hephaestus’ incredible prosperity in the aftermath, contrasting the spotlight of corporate wealth. While disgruntlement swept through every layer of colonial life, life continued.

Seeds of Unrest | 2296 - 2329

The aftermath of the Interstellar War created new opportunities, new challenges - settlers from the nascent Coalition of Colonies joined CZ-5501, drawn with the allure of a quiet life. Countless veterans and mercenaries struggled to find their place post-war with many destitute, a fact Governor Anders would exploit by securing their loyalty in funding, land, and opportunity. Though they had been spared entirely from any battlefield, the administration’s continued squeezing for the extraction of wealth left a depreciating quality of life. By 2296, 27 years after their arrival, the colony’s next generation of workers had joined the labor force much like their parents, jaded.

Cities grew to accommodate the wave of immigration and swell of population. The administration would invest in expanding operations to employ the itching youth, knowing idle hands may begin to question their governance. In the search for new mining sites, the latest probes scour planet-wide for lucrative deposits, with peculiar data identified upon their return. The surveying drones reported deposits embedded in the earth far below the initial ore veins they had managed to mine, with data supporting the prospect of Helium-3 reserves. Much like the abandonment by Hephaestus, Anders controlled the flow of information concerning the newfound discovery.

Orders were issued to prepare the new drilling site at the desert equator in 2309, far more remote than previous mines. The crews had been hand selected to ensure any confirmation of the potential Helium-3 would be sworn to secrecy, a gambit to hoard the resulting wealth in the administration. Mining teams enlisted the use of the 24th century’s technological achievement - the ‘Ares’, a colossal-class drill patented by Hephaestus designed to penetrate the lower mantle. The survey team descended down the massive tunnel, reaching giant crystalline cave networks supported by underground flowing rivers. There they collected samples and marked locations for subsequent teams to embark.

Their return, however, came with grim tidings: the surveyors began experiencing distressing symptoms of an unknown illness, forcing an immediate quarantine and temporary shutdown of operations to identify the cause. Despite insisting on completing the investigation by mining supervisors, Anders refuses to delay, forcing an immediate order to resume operations that results in a secondary outbreak. The bodies of the infected were quietly taken away, reportedly incinerated, with no published information save for the official coverup of an industrial incident.

Families of the deceased attempted to raise concerns regarding their deaths, inquiries and repeated outreach that fell on deaf ears. By the administration’s negligence, supporters gathered to petition for better working conditions and preventative measures, embarking on peaceful demonstrations that ultimately failed to gain any meaningful traction. Desperate family members uncovered the truth of the infected to media outlets, creating colony-wide outrage that turned resentment into full blown protests. In response, corporate soldiers were sent to assist local police forces with peacekeeping. Several riots broke out across the colonies from the exceptional brutality, suppressed with escalating violence in every clash between civilians and colonial police.

The administration met with riot leaders to draft an immediate change in legislation - a body of elected representatives from each settlement was made, a move critics alleged was solely to appease the grievances for being leaked. The colonial representatives were entrusted to create joint committees for overseeing the improvement of medical care, stricter regulation for the protection of laborers, and assistive amends to families impacted by the illness. The administration quietly abandoned the quarantined mining site, its location one of few details still hidden to the public at large. The 2310-2320s remained otherwise a period of relative peace, seeing a rise in stability built on shaky foundations. Though the population was pacified for the time being, dissent continued to fester.

Uprising | 2330 - 2334

Dissenters in the administration make the bold decision in 2332 to light the proverbial powder keg with the truth of Hephaestus’ abandonment during the Interstellar War, whistle blowers revealing decades of forgery and systemic exploitation to the public. City representatives convene to form a joint committee to unite all settlements, probing officials to begin both a vote of no confidence in the current government and investigation for prosecution. Though early discussions seem to suggest the process would be resolved civilly, the administration quickly bunkered down. Colonial territories endured punitive oppression that escalated from strict curfews to city-wide arrests, attempting to intimidate city officials.

Foreman Alai’i Maulalo, supervisor of a major refining site, rallies miners to his banner in late 2334, disrupting operations and delaying shipments across the colonies as they occupied the facilities. Cities watch the unfolding standoff with no substantial progress in negotiations. The uncompromising government eventually forced an ultimatum with which Ala’i Manulalo surrendered himself to custody willingly on the condition to spare the workers with him. During the surrender a single bullet strikes Manulalo from an impatient soldier, marking the first battle of many to come. Alai’i Maulalo and workers engage with improvised firearms and mining mechs to push back the better armed, better equipped colonial forces while enduring significant injuries. The administration’s forces ultimately retreated to regroup as the planet watched on. Media outlets capture the televised image of the bleeding, injured survivors actively performing the Manu Siva Tau - a cultural war dance - that becomes the reigning symbol of the war for independence.

Martial law is declared, suspending personal liberties as the planetary administration’s forces mobilize to combat the wildfires of resistance spreading across the cities. The capital of Ti’nema faces the worst of the treatment as the seat of government, shutting down all travel while securing borders.The cities of Mafuna, Saitele, and Laitoga to the south present the biggest threat to the government as each declare their intent of secession while Viletu remains with the administration. Enele Asoau from Mafuna is unanimously chosen as the revolutionary figure-head, adopting Saitele representative Hana Uta’i as his second in command.

Rebellion | 2335 - 2346

Early battles in 2335 primarily consisted of urban skirmishes, making use of stolen Hephaestus equipment to assault security holdings. The rebellion utilized underground networks through discontinued mines, funneling supplies and equipment to the most oppressed corners of the colonies. They remained outgunned throughout the subsequent years, resorting to sabotage, drone warfare, and cells of rebels disrupting colonial infrastructure to cripple loyalist supply lines. The government’s air superiority enabled bombing campaigns that resulted in civilian losses, funneling new recruits to take arms against them.

By 2338, the civil war placed an incredible strain on the frontier society. The administration’s hold over its territories weakened substantially, stretched thin over the wildly unpopular incursions and skirmishes by rebel forces. Paranoia in the government saw a further stripping of liberties with police forces imprisoning suspected rebels and accomplices. Funding and services once meant to sustain the quality of life for the population were instead routed to war-time efforts, both contracting pirates and mercenaries to replenish lost soldiers. The reinforcements drove rebels further back, threatening to crush the movement entirely as they resorted to more economic destruction in hopes of stalling out the government’s war machine. Key battles waged near mines resorted in a shut down of operations entirely, a critical turn as rebels managed to seize production facilities.

Unable to fulfill the obligations in the mercenary contracts, 2344 saw the fracture in the colonial administration's military might. Aggrieved soldiers accepted payment from the minerals and gems hoarded by rebel forces, siding with the resistance as loyalist holdings came under siege. The successive battles struck a decisive blow to the tyranny across the colonies, the culminating skirmishes reflecting the bloodiest period of the war by 2345. Pictures of the vast cemeteries entered the public eye, fueling the collective rage to topple the government and end the oppression at last. The united forces under a recovered Alai’i Manulalo, now general of the army, marched on the capital of Ti’nema.

While victory seemed in their grasp, the march to the compound rocked Ti’nema to its core - the outbreak that once claimed the expeditionary members in 2309 had been weaponized by Dr. Victus Mesra, the administration’s Chief Science Officer. Unbeknownst to the public, the bodies of deceased explorers had not been burned - instead, research enabled by the deceased identified chemoautotrophs that chemosynthesized mineral compounds for sustenance. Careful study and genetic manipulation weaponized an unnatural strain that could complete its lifecycle at an extraordinary rate, leeching minerals from its environment with explosive growth. The bioweapon subsequently consumed Ti’nema, aerosolized as a dense humid fog, leaving countless to succumb in the immediate release across the city. The impact struck the center of the city, panicked evacuations commencing from the outskirts of those able to avoid the brunt of the weapon’s release. In less than forty eight hours, victims experienced the agony of crystals synthesizing from within their respiratory tract, eventually puncturing the body as they grew larger until their death.

Survivors, if reached early enough, received emergency surgery and prosthetic replacements as no cure existed. Those unable to receive care or were too late faced an agonizing death as the bacteria consumed the minerals within the human body, converting tissue to crystals from the inside. What was once a thriving capital had been reduced to a graveyard, frozen in time from the moment of impact, decorated with the crystallized corpses of its inhabitants. The war for independence in 2346 concluded - cities lay devastated, families shattered, the foundations of their society darkened by the scars of battle. The now deposed colonial government’s remnant forces retreated to Viletu, surrendering control of the rebelling colonial cities to the resistance.

Confederate Era | 2347 - 2462

Rubble and Revival | 2347 - 2384

Eleven years of war extracted its toll, placing an immeasurable strain on society. The now liberated city states licked their wounds while processing the sobering reality of the aftermath. Casualties exceeded what many had anticipated at the start of the war - starvation struck where supply chains had collapsed. Disease spread with the overextension of hospital resources. Families now saw the void where their loved ones once stood.

Assets from the prior administration were seized, serving the city-states towards the new dawn of the planet. While each colonial settlement had become its own city-state, the disparity in locale, resources, and economy became yet another obstacle to overcome. Those with industrial capabilities as a result of seizing the former administration’s assets held leverage in an export-centric economy. The pre-existing economy relied on the export of minerals and metals, a specialization that now faced a surge in domestic demand for rebuilding. Settlements reliant on agricultural production faced a clear disadvantage, dependent on the industrial centers with calls for prioritizing the domestic demand, a challenge as supply could meet neither.

Despite the declarations of support, the cumbersome gaps in agreements by officials posed the most glaring weakness. The use of Hephaestus scrip - the standard issue tender at the time - had been fully abolished, driving a period of economic upheaval with the collapse of existing financial systems. Leaving little opportunity beyond barter trading, each city took advantage of their respective advantages in an attempt to secure the highest price for their goods. The trade wars of the 2350s proved a crippling culprit for the delays seen in reconstruction, plaguing development and restoration throughout the decade.

Many turned to resistance leaders who once led the colonies to prosperity for guidance. Most had returned to their homes without fanfare, either pursuing careers in politics or working towards supporting their local communities. An informal gathering was called as an assembly of resistance leaders met to discuss next steps. Much like their initial bid for independence, they realized the duty required of them and would decide the future direction of the planet once more. They briskly worked to consolidate the landscape by organizing a summit held on March 18th, 2362 in Mafuna. The first of these meetings was the fono a mālō, or ‘meeting of government’, that established the Confederation of Nu’u Fou which would support participating city-states. Subsequent meetings created a central currency backed by planetary metals, offering stability and compromise. Viletu, where the remnants of the colonial administration had fled to, remained independent with the new government placing a formal embargo against the city.

The confederation’s inception at last enabled a full blown focus on recovery. A time of resurgence for Nu’u Fouans as each sovereign city-state sought to maximize their economic capabilities to off-set the crippling debts left in the aftermath of the usurped administration. A decade of growth through the early 2360s into the late 2370s saw a restoration of facilities and population, closer to 60% of their pre-independence numbers, speaking to the sheer loss of life in war. Much of the planet looked to the outer rim at large for opportunities at the close of 2379: trade suffered substantially throughout the years of instability following the war, cutting significantly into the colony’s strength.

While independent minor trade networks were established with frontier systems, the most promising of them all proved to be contact with the Solarian colony of Konyang in 2382. Nu’u Fou’s location between Konyang and the Coalition of Colonies provided a convenient mid-point in travel, serving as a lucrative, logistical hub both for trade and refueling. A promising opportunity at a glance, one that suffered from the confederation’s inability to smoothly assuage the variety of self-serving interests from within. While significant progress took place in the early draft agreements, a prolonged campaign of political feuding drove a wedge between city-state members in attempting to benefit their constituents most. Many credit Kaila Tuiga, a senior leader of Saitele, with ending the two year discourse and ratifying the trade pact of 2384.

Exploration | 2385 - 2418

Five generations of Nu’u Fouans emerged since the colony’s founding in 2270. The war for independence was a passing memory, forty years ago, far from the reality for the adults of the late 2380s. None in living memory were part of the initial expeditionary crew, with further erosion of any meaningful purpose garnered as the oral history failed to capture the youth. A restlessness settled in the collective minds of the youth, with many yearning for a sense of adventure and relief from the mundane as the horrors of battle had not reached them as it did their parents. For them, the vast majority of reconstruction and recovery were endeavors that did not satisfy a desire to explore their future. For the Confederation of Nu’u Fou, an economic and social stability meant that efforts to broaden their horizons was possible.

Overwhelming public support in the pursuit of these opportunities passed through Confederate representatives with ease, a rarity in the otherwise gridlocked governance. While settlement rights were primarily resolved with ease, disagreements between city-states seeking the governance across the proposed sites left lingering resentments that would go unresolved for decades.

Expeditionary campaigns went underway to facilitate the exploration and study of Nu’u Fou itself, manifesting in a variety of initiatives that encompassed every facet of the planet. The growth of potential careers alleviated the rising unemployment rate that primarily ailed the youth of the time, now able to occupy opening positions in new lands. The most notable of these campaigns took place over the course of the late 2380s to the late 2410s, considered an era of discovery for the budding civilization as a whole.

With promising prospects from the expeditions, the confederation looked to populate the wilderness. New settlements were erected south of the desert equator, most notably Saupouli and Hauata in 2389, despite challenges in crossing the hostile terrain.

As the original colony was founded in-land, little investment had been made in settling the coasts, let alone establishing a naval presence. The subsequent shipyards created alongside the newly erected coastal towns were in their infancy, requiring an import of talent and machinery to eventually establish production. Early explorers faced the difficulty of navigating Nu’u Fou’s unique waters: the moon’s orbit, the geological activity from underground rivers filtering mineral water along the ocean floor, and the storm systems along the equator. WIth ancestors having passed down hundreds of years of wayfinding since Earth, the foundation was built upon to overcome Nu’u Fou’s maritime navigational challenges. Through trial and error, navigating the sea became possible, culminating in the development of the early solar sail by Siaki Tama’ilima in 2412. The sail’s material derived from compressed piezoelectric crystals enabled a simultaneous propulsion from the winds while capturing photonic charge to power electrical motors. While a promising invention, the inefficient power generation required limited voyages and a reliance on frequent resupplies.

The Trinary Perfection | 2419 - 2451 “Abandoned, Gregor. A hundred and fifty years of isolation. There is no better.” - [Redacted] to Gregor Corkfell, 2419.

It was the morning of August 17th, 2419 that saw the landfall of Gregol Corkfell, accompanied by Trinarist settlers to the frontier world of Nu’u Fou. Though scholars debate what compelled Gregol to lead his exodus to Nu’u Fou, their arrival would irrevocably alter the course of history. The Trinarists settled in a pre-confederate mining town that had been abandoned in the aftermath of the civil war, renamed Edena Landing. Still standing buildings were repurposed to accommodate the IPC population, all too reliant on supporting infrastructure for maintenance. The hostile nature of the desert - while a benefit for access to solar power - was taxing on both synthetic and organic followers.

Six months would pass before formal attempts to establish diplomacy took place in early 2420. Gregol knew well that more than a century of isolation meant language inevitably diverged, an obstacle to overcome much as the shock of IPCs would be to an isolated people far from the positronic revolution in Konyang. The hand-picked envoys of the Trinary were a mix of human followers and shell frames, utilizing the inherent familiarity to dampen the cultural shock of first contact. Gregol, in similar fashion, relied on century old maps recorded during the colonial era as he personally left for the capital of Ti’nema, unaware of its fate.

Despite the best attempts of diplomacy, the deviation from Solarian Common created misunderstandings among the local city-states that received them. Many envoys were detained, creating initial hostilities as officials mistakenly suspected they had arrived from Viletu, the surviving holdout of the disposed colonial government. With Gregol both out of communication range and the growing concerns for the fate of arrested Trinarists, an upstart G1 industrial named ARM-1DRIL tackled the crisis by mediating discussion with Mafuna officials in 2421, convincing enough to assuage further aggression. ARM-1DRIL was later joined by Gregol upon his return from Ti’nema to liberate the remaining diplomats, setting the foundation for the future alliance.

What the Trinarists lacked in infrastructure or population was made up for in technology, having brought what was available across the modern Spur but not yet seen by the native populace. The exchange of information and exposure to the broader galaxy at large provided a means of interaction that secured early relationships, chiefly in the city-state of Matetau. Opposing city-states - and the confederacy at large - were far more resistant to the synthetic presence, distrusting of the foreigners. No matter Gregol’s effort, the doors would remain shut for any further progression until a sympathetic Matetauan spoke of Ti’nema’s tragedy. Though Gregol had arrived previously to overgrown ruins, the extent of the dark history eluded him. The opportunity thus presented itself. While apprehensive, the Matetauans accepted the offer to accompany the Trinarists to Ti’nema, forming an expedition to brave the depths of the once bustling city.

What awaited them there was a graveyard of ruined buildings, twisted steel, and crystallized remains littering the grounds. The capital had been lost in the definitive battle of the independence war in 2346 with the deployment of the bioweapon, a curse that continued to plague the vicinity surrounding the city. Ti'nema remained abandoned, a haunting reminder of the cost of freedom. With the Trinarists, however, the immunity by synthetic expeditioners indicated an opportunity at last to secure the contamination’s source, if any. In the heart of Ti’nema beneath the bunker, the cracked holding tanks carrying the still yet thriving bioweapon had leaked into the cavernous reservoirs below, a poison that repeated the cycle with every rainfall. Work went underway to filter and purify the water table, requiring extensive collaboration and support between Trinary and Confederate minds as the modified bacteria had been spreading for decades. By the end of 2442, 21 years since its discovery, the environmental disaster was contained and purified. Though the possibility of the bacteria strain surviving existed, the ability to inhabit Ti’nema once more was a resounding victory for the natives, one shared with their newfound allies.

Having established a working relationship, proper trade and exchanges could begin between the groups. With Matetua’s assistance, Edena Landing grew to become the foundation of Providence, the capital and home of the Trinary Perfection. The Trinarists similarly grew in popularity as word of their gospel spread, drawing attention from hopeful IPCs in neighboring systems and across the galaxy. Waves of synthetics escaping servitude or the harsh conditions of human-centric space joined the budding faith, marking the first major synthetic migration to Nu’u Fou in 2447.

The Failing Confederacy | 2452 - 2462

The Coalition of Colonies’ instability in 2452 worsened the already increasingly lawless stretches of frontier space, enabling piracy on a scale that impacted countless systems. A major source of economic stability was through the trade pact of 2384, which relied on commerce from Konyang and the greater Coalition at large. Merchants to and from Nu’u Fou endured repeated piracy, prompting a significant decrease in space traffic as many avoided the primary route impacting freighters. The risks in transportation of these goods from remaining merchants were passed to consumers, leaving many to struggle with the sharp rise in prices. The exchange rate skewed heavily in favor of Coalition traders, constricting imports from the outside galaxy while native Nu’u Fouans saw a drain of their currency reserves. The subsequent demand and forced reliance on domestic production demonstrated the weakness in the confederation - inter-colony tensions escalated as major resource centers attempted to offload the costs to their fellow colonies. Breadbasket city-states threatened to upset the food supply by prioritizing their citizens, facing supply shocks and reciprocation from major manufacturers as unemployment loomed.

While confederate leaders convened to find a resolution, new challenges emerged in 2454. Reports of supply depot sabotage and attacks on land shipping routes by unknown actors reached headlines, complicating a growing complexity for officials to navigate. No organization would claim responsibility despite the increase in frequency of these raids. Confederate forces were deployed to escort and protect these routes, though faced both limited funding and manpower as both aspects were consistently in contention by city-states. While the nation was not defenseless, much of the funding to sustain a standing military was reliant on the expensive upkeep of centuries old equipment. The frequency in attacks soon escalated, resulting in civilian casualties despite confederate escorts. Responsibility of the raids were finally attributed to a neo-colonial organization known as the Embers of Anders.

Embers of Anders

The ideological backbone and governing body of Viletu. The Embers of Anders based their ethos on the deceased Governor Anders, a tyrant who once sold a vision of power, authority, and prestige to his corporate subordinates before he had been overthrown. The colonial government was deposed in 2362, leaving the militarized remnants fleeing to Viletu, the last bastion of colonial power who sided with the colonial administration. Their descendants, indoctrinated to believe their wealth and rights to the planet were stolen by vicious rebels, seek retribution through whatever means necessary. Governor Anders’ likeness and manipulative tactics lived on to weaponize the generations that followed, spearheaded by former colonial leaders who supported the oppressive regime at its peak. Viletuans have never known a reality other than sharing a planet with those who denied their forefathers their inheritance.

The repeated raids left a growing resentment towards the confederation as city-states were ultimately forced to rely on local militia, drafting from civilian reserves to reinforce confederate escorts. The Embers of Anders commenced a prolonged propaganda campaign with cells operating out of the hearts of cities, sabotaging utilities and compromising infrastructure as attacks increased through 2456. Officials contacted Providence to request Trinarist support, a controversial action with divisive reactions across city-states. Gregol Corkfell debuted Emmanuel, a rumored former Z.I. unit, as both commander of the assembled Trinarist peacekeeping force and military instructor. Emmanuel conducted training and combat readiness drills across the confederacy, temporarily lodged in the cities with mixed reactions. Restless, hardliner civilians and pervasive Embers propaganda leads to optics of oppression, viewing this intervention by the synthetics to be a threat against their autonomy regardless of their standing relationships. Though many welcomed them, repeated scuffles lead to outbreaks of violence, perpetuating the fabricated narrative.

2460 brought the untimely abandonment of frontier towns as the assembly made the decision to prioritize the inner city-states and major mining operations, deemed the lifeblood of the confederation. Droves of civilians sought refuge in the midst of the continued raids and breakdown of local government, placing strain on every facet of city administrations to handle surges in population. Protests inevitably broke out in the midst of a peaking unpopularity in handling the Embers of Anders, funneling further sympathizers to their cause. Policing forces were stretched to their limits as calls for reform and affirmative action threatened to both topple and fracture the confederation.

Ghosts of the Past and The Last Corkfell | 2463 - 2464

The confederacy’s turmoil would persist into 2463, running parallel to the expansion of Trinarists across the brutal desert. A chance encounter far to the most remote regions across the belt exposes colonial history: The long abandoned Ares class drill looming before the hidden digsite, an operation that had never reached the public. An agreed upon Trinary-Confederate expedition reveals a startling truth rediscovered since the first digging a hundred years ago: Helium-3 reserves were identified deep within the lower mantle. The technological limitations of the 2200s left this realization obscured during the first drones to reach the planet, later only revealed during Governor Anders’ reign in 2309, which was later forgotten in the subsequent periods of political instability. The news shocks Nu’u Fouans across the planet yet does little to resolve the ongoing unrest. All the same, efforts to capitalize on the valuable element proceed in the midst of surviving the ongoing strife.

Hephaestus Industries’ quarterly earnings call for Q1 of 2463 commences without much fanfare, save for the unusual inclusion of a press release scheduled in May, delivered from the Coalition of Colonies regional headquarters aboard the HICS Etna. The press release reveals the megacorporation’s reassertion of its legacy portfolio, a claim painting Orepit specifically amongst the countless planets swept under the rug throughout the Coalition’s history as part of an ongoing initiative to consolidate its assets. Trinarist synthetics were labeled rogue agents attempting to subvert corporate property with Hephaestus’ responsibility to protect descendants of the company’s workers. Many suspected the appearance of the Embers in tandem with the helium-3 discovery created the perfect opportunity for Hephaestus to capitalize on the planet, an early theory with increasing validity as the organization ballooned with weapons, vehicles, and manpower, a thinly veiled Hephaestus operation given the minimal news coverage of Orepit.

The confederation reaches a breaking point, unable to handle the rapid acceleration of raids, declaring a state of emergency as the social unrest explodes into profound dissent. The seeds of doubt are sown as leaked footage of various protestors across city-states suggest Hephaestus affiliated off-worlders were intentionally planted to provoke demonstrations. Conspiracists declare them agents of saboteurs planted amongst the populations, the megacoporation was swift to dismiss the claims just as the Trinary attempted to assuage the people of having no part in such a deplorable scenario. Some - albeit never confirmed - are alleged shell frames, disbursed from Burzsia to further destabilize the confederation, a theory that poisoned the well with Providence at the prospect of collusion with the company. Paranoia plagues every corner despite resistance from the most devout of tight-knit communities, straining relations.

Representatives from Hephaestus arrive in Ti'nema to deliver an offer: The confederation and its city-states were to pay reparations and return existing equipment and infrastructure to the company while allowing a smooth transition of power, offering the stability the desperate planet desired: modern amenities, meaningful employment, and lucrative benefits. The confederation rejected the offer soundly, a conclusion that - in stable times - would have been met with universal agreement. As living and working conditions worsened, a growing minority found solace in the prospect, far removed from the oppression once felt by prior generations.

A week later, the deployment of Hephaestus’ fleet from the nearby system of Burzsia blockades all space traffic surrounding Nu’u Fou. All attempts of communication to and from the planet are shut down, turning away merchant ships from the Coalition. Despite the communication blackout, protests erupt across the Integrationist sect of the Trinary in the heart of Mendell, joined by activists and anti-corporate sympathizers from both Konyang and Xanu. Awareness from the Integrationists’ demonstrations brings galactic news coverage, shedding light on the events of the otherwise distant, forgotten frontier planet. The Coalition of Colonies’ House of Observers convenes, later issuing a statement that both contests Hephaestus’ claim and establishes the blockade as an “illegal, condemnable act”, interfering with the sovereignty of an abandoned territory, regardless of its lack of formal participation in the Coalition.

National leaders quickly gathered in Ti’nema out of desperation alongside Trinarist leadership, attempting to decide the fate of their planet in the face of overwhelming pressure. The fleet blockade had, at last, collapsed the Confederacy in its entirety, unable to survive under duress of multiple fronts. Though conceding to Hephaestus had been a possibility to swiftly alleviate the public’s suffering, what emerged was a union that guides the planet to this day.

Televisions across the Republic of Biesel and the Coalition of Colonies cover the sudden attack of Burzsia, having bypassed orbital defenses to cripple storage facilities, mining infrastructure, and station platforms. Lives both synthetic and organic were lost in the assault along with the disappearance of IPC units aboard small personnel carrier shuttles, having liberated a sizable portion of the planetary workforce. The raid was initially suspected to be opportunistic pirates, later attributed to Exclusionist Leader Deluge as it boldly claimed responsibility against Hephaestus. Burzsia’s largest ship, a crowning achievement of the system’s security, was crippled and immobilized, a symbol of having wounded the indomitable corporation at the heart of a major regional operation. Despite Einstein Engines publicly denying involvement, Exclusionist wreckages contained equipment consistent with Einstein origin, suggesting an ongoing proxy battle waged in the shadows.

The blockade of Nu’u Fou was ultimately lifted as The Stellar Corporate Conglomerate (SCC) clamored for immediate action, a matter undertaken by President Dorne as an executive order was signed to officially designate the Exclusionists a rogue, hostile terrorist organization.

The alleviated blockade restores communication to and from the planet, where consolidation of damages and resources could begin. Hephaestus’ incursion confirmed two undeniable truths - For the native Nu’u Fouans, a confederation would not grant them the leverage to resolve disputes or hostilities with the affirmative action they require. For the Trinarists, it became clear a unified planetary identity was all the more critical in the face of entering the intergalactic stage. Deliberations shortly went underway as confederate and city leaders joined an assembly of Trinarist clergy to discuss how best to unite these fronts into a tenable position. It became evident that - while hesitation lingered in the predicament - the continued relief and support of the synthetics were critical to their continued survival. Equally, Trinarists viewed the to-be Salamasians as a reliable ally who prioritized their well-being and security, a facet of finding respite through decades of struggle, survival, and ultimately hardship. Leaders engaged in weeks of discussion to find compromise where the strengths of each party could enable the other, serving as a mutually beneficial relationship that would not threaten to undermine the other. While a minority protested the prospect, it became clear that the confederation desired a strong domestic front while the established networks afforded by the Trinarist church enabled a fundamental presence that held merit in securing their identity to others who may similarly threaten their sovereignty. It was with ARM-1DRIL’s careful negotiation that enabled a galactic broadcast that brings eyes to the signing of the Articles of Concordance - a multi-faceted document that:

Established the Ecclesiarchy of Axiom as the planetary government, including the Order of Guardians as the militant and planetary defense force. The first Ecclesiarch, ARM-1DRIL, assumed power of the Trinarist capital. Created the Salamasian Republic with ratified sovereignty. The united colonial cities of the defunct confederation were now consolidated beneath one banner, composed of a representative assembly along with both its prime minister and deputy prime minister. While deferring to the Ecclesiarchy’s authority in planetary matters, the Republic’s local administration retains internal independence from Ecclesiastical authority.

A subsequent summit to the world of Xanu Prime saw representatives from Axiom, Himeo, Einstein Engines, and Hephaestus in attendance with Coalition mediators formed by the arbitration committee. The demand for ceasefire was agreed upon, as was the compensatory agreement between the Trinary Perfection and Hephaestus Industries, establishing a payment plan at the quoted price in both currency and industrial goods. Einstein Engine is later signed to expand, restore, and assist in the operation of existing mining facilities as well as Helium-3 extraction, benefiting both from favorable prices and priority in shipment.

Although the latest crisis appeared to be averted, much remained to be restored as the Salamasians and Trinarists alike walked hand-in-hand to navigate the uncertainty of the future.

The Ecclesiarchy | 2465 - Present

Axiom Today | 2465 - Present

Axiom continues to exist in the duality of tradition and modernization. Galactic attention from the explosive clash with Hephaestus earned waves of migration from both synthetic and organic settlers seeking new opportunities, investments, and clean slates. The rural communities of the Salamasian Republic attract countless to a lifestyle disconnected from the Spur at large, finding solace in a rustic lifestyle.

The Phoron scarcity has proven both blessing and bane to the planet's centuries old infrastructure - Coalition investors opting to invest in the Vitro for its favorable exchange rates and purchasing power to avoid the brunt of market conditions. Imports have risen in pricing dramatically, a pressure point felt across the Ecclesiarchy even as the planet lacks reliance on Phoron-era technology. While the quality of life pales to the amenities of more developed planets, the shortfalls have a silver lining in less volatility overall, owed to their lack of direct reliance on Phoron. The constricting costs and shortages of goods, however, have posed serious concerns for both governments, attempting to leverage the planet's natural resources to compensate. With resistance to external contractors, the costs to expand domestic reliability have been similarly detrimental to the fragile societies. Salamasian Prime Minister Lasalo Naea has implemented rationing initiatives to mitigate consumption, yet the reliance on imports remains unchanged. Ecclesiarch ARM-1DRIL navigates difficult negotiations in ensuring Axiom can remain weather an increasingly competitive market.

The rampancy of Konyang saw an increasing support network between the planets, both in immediate assistance to the affected as administered by the Archbishop of Konyang, and the immigration to Axiom from fleeing Konyangers, consisting of many formerly rampant units. The Ecclesiarch ARM-1DRIL has signed agreements with Prime Minister Myeong Myung-Dae to enable transportation and seamless migration for the affected, a monumental development in the existing trade agreements between the Synthetic populated planets. Many Konyangers have found home in Saitele, uniting with the existing diaspora from prior years of settlement. Others have found homes in the Salamasian Republic, eager to expand its territories across the planet.

Location and Environment

The Tagaloa system is composed of three planetary bodies - including Axiom - that orbit the star known as Alo’o le La (Alo). While in documented space, its obscurity and relative unimportance in galactic affairs has left its presence far from the radars of major political entities until the incursion of Hephaestus in 2463. It shares a nearby proximity to Liberty's Cradle, closest to Gadpathur and Himeo to the East with Konyang in the West and Arusha - home to Pactolus - in the North.

Alo’o le La

At the center of the Tagaloa System sits Alo’o le La, an orange dwarf star. Orange dwarf stars are an intermediate classification of stars between red and yellow dwarfs, smaller in both mass and size than yellow dwarfs while larger than red dwarfs. Alo is noted to produce frequent and devastating solar flares, a fact that has led to the gradual destruction of Vaoati.

Vaoati

The closest planet to Alo’o le La, Vaoati is on a slow march to extinction. Tidally locked, the star-facing surface is perpetually belted by radioactive solar winds that gradually strip its surface, creating a multi-layered trail of debris that drifts away from the planet. The trail itself is a vibrant cobalt blue, owed to the planet’s burning indium within its crust. Segments of the trail are defined in three major zones based on proximity: The closest is composed of large, heated chunks and rubble of surface material that contains the greatest concentration of minerals yet serves as the most dangerous to extract. The intermediate layer contains smaller, older fragments of rocks to large gravel in the trail that, while less valuable, is less hazardous. The tail end of the trail is a thin dust trail from the broken down material, leaving the widest concentration of debris that lingers throughout its rotations.

Given the cooler nature of an orange star, estimates put the planet’s inevitable destruction by its star on a scale of millions of years - a prospect alien to the Spur’s civilizations - yet a blink of an eye on the cosmic timescale.

Leiloa

Axiom’s moon - Leiloa - is a medium sized, volcanically active moon that runs in a retrograde orbit to the planet. The surface is defined by active volcanic zones that regularly spew lava which define the younger geological areas with older, cooler, dormant pockets depicting its geological history. Leiloa possesses a magnetic field as a result of its internal heat, resulting in a limited, thin atmosphere. This is known to create visual, Aurora-like phenomena when its magnetic field interacts with Alo’o le La’s solar winds at certain points of its orbit, particularly hues of amber-gold from the sodium in its atmosphere. Early theories have opined that Leiloa may, in fact, be a rogue moon from a neighboring system, due to its composition being unlike the existing system’s planets.

Faʻatiu

The furthest planet is enveloped in a thick, icy cloud veil that leaves it visibly impenetrable to the naked eye. Curiously, the dense cover is capable of distorting light due to the carbon dioxide ice crystals within the atmosphere. This creates a spectrum of visual phenomena when viewed from orbit, the prismatic distortions appearing as if the planet were visibly alive. Its distance from its star suggests a far cooler surface temperature than similarly enshrouded planets like Venus, leaving a wealth of exploration hidden away beneath its veil.

Environment

Axiom exists in the habitable zone in the Tagaloa system, affording the planet a thin, breathable atmosphere. The planet itself is smaller compared to Earth, comprised of two continents, north and south poles, and minor island chains.

Chemoautotrophs

Microbial life has both developed and shaped the geology of Axiom over time, attributed as a major source of the mineral deposits found beneath the surface. Chemoautotrophs - organisms that convert inorganic substances into organic compounds - rely on the dissolved minerals within underground rivers and lakes to process nourishment in the absence of sunlight. These microbial lifeforms are largely harmless, serving as an important food source for marine life in oceans and those within the karst caverns. Chemosynthetic microbes can vary in species, with each producing unique mineral compounds or crystalline formations as a waste product, owing to the diversity in both color and cave composition across the underground layers of Axiom. Its genus is Lithomonas, containing species that consume these minerals, often producing crystalline waste products.

The most infamous incident regarding Chemoautotrophs was the deployment of the man-made bioweapon over Ti’nema in 2346, resulting in massive casualties and the abandonment of the capital for nearly a century. The colonial administration’s Chief Science Officer, Dr. Victoria Mesra, devised a modified strain of a local species that could both complete its lifecycle and multiply at an exponential rate, marking her as a reviled figure in the history of Nu’u. Dr. Mesra’s research was lost in the siege of Ti’nema, with both the republic and the ecclesiarchy practicing strong, oppressive control over potential further research into any Lithomonas. Concerns over surviving documents from the revolution remain, yet no resurgence of the weapon or its study have emerged since.

Geography

The map of Orepit (outdated).

<- New map needed!

The topography of the planet is smooth along its equator, the outskirts flanked by high altitudes of mountainous terrain that slope down to fertile grounds closer to the poles.The desert equator is formed from the rain shadow effect, caused by the bordering mountain ranges that block moist air from reaching the equator, resulting in dry and arid conditions. Water is primarily abundant through the subterranean channels of vast underground caverns and distant seas east to west. Surface freshwater can be found almost entirely at the more fertile equatorial outskirts with the exception of rare lakes and rivers.

The land on the equator, proposed to be especially concentrated in minerals, is simultaneously the most hostile environment for unaided human settlement. Suffering from perpetual drought, the surface is cracked for miles on end with only the most extreme fauna and flora capable of surviving. Relief exists in the form of cenotes - or sinkholes - that shade from the unrelenting sun, an oasis for wildlife, its depth able to avoid the worst of the extreme conditions.

Drilling sites throughout the course of the planet’s history resulted in various mining shafts, varying from shallow plunges to several kilometers deep, hundreds of meters in radius. The concentration of these digging sites rests in the harsh desert equator, providing man-made shade and access to the deepest caverns of the planet. The vast depths have been subject to tales and folklore by the native population, fueled by their history in prior expeditions. Most caverns resemble karst topography, where soluble rock has eroded from underground water over thousands of years, culminating in caves teeming with life.

In recent years, the joint Trinary-Native exploratory survey revealed the lucrative prospects of Helium-3 reserves within the planet’s lower mantle.

Flora and Fauna

The native life on Nu’u has adapted to the planet’s unique composition, with the more novel forms of life found beneath the surface. A variety of Earth species were introduced in the colony’s initial arrival, either becoming ecologically destructive as pests or failing to survive the ecosystem’s challenges. Many were wiped out by disease, environment, or were otherwise unable to adapt. The biodiversity can be classified between four major zones: The fertile hemispheres, desert equator, underground caverns, and ocean.

Salamasians have made use of local species in the name of survival, animal husbandry, medicine and more throughout for more than a century. Others, originating from Earth, have adapted to Nu’us unique environment.

Isumu Lua, “Pit Mouse”

A species of rodent, these small animals were initially a popular source of protein in settler cuisine. Their habitat is primarily the fertile hemispheres, relying on the roots of fruits of the Laau Maa for sustenance. Hunting them is an art in and of itself, requiring great deals of patience for the creatures to exit their deep holes in search of food. Smoking them out proves ineffective, as the complex networks of tunnels dug out underground are usually too long for a hunter to fully discover, giving the pitswine pack multiple unpredictable exits and alerting them in the process. Isumu Lua meat is fatty with an underlying sweetness, driving its popularity as a hunting commodity.

Gata Tui, “Stinging Snake”

Aptly named, Gata Tui are a species of long and slimy fish reminiscent of snakes most commonly found in rivers. Their body is covered head to tail with a dense layer of needles for protection against predators. Adult stingers are an even more dangerous catch, capable of releasing their needles as a defense mechanism, possessing developed glands which produce a paralytic venom that feeds into its spikes. Fishing these eels requires a degree of mastery and skill that takes years to hone, many having fallen victim to the excruciating pain of its sting.

Aila, “Rock Clam”

A derivative of filter feeding molluscs present in Nu’u’s oceans. It is known to primarily gather around the exit channels of underground rivers flowing into the ocean, feeding on microorganisms and passing sediment. As it ages, its shell grows with mineral deposits, eventually fossilizing in colonies around these exit points. Their corpses subsequently form new crystalline formations, serving as a useful landmark for connecting cavern systems and as a basis for reefs to sustain further aquatic life.

Fua Tioata, “Crystal Fruit”

Crystal fruit are found at an intermediate depth, primarily concentrated in cave systems with rare strains capable of surviving deeper. The vine spreads itself along the ceiling of caverns, wrapping around stalacites, descending towards water pools where it photosynthesizes from bioluminescent microbes. The fruit dimly glows as a result, carrying a mildly sweet, almost damp flavor. The connecting segments along the flesh of the fruit are composed of a hard, inflexible material that can only be eaten when boiled. Its seeds give the appearance of small gems, earning its moniker. Much as explorers associate the Toto Fua with potential water, the Crystal Fruit is both landmark and sustenance for cave dwellers and Pitters found at this depth. It can be easily recognized by its distinctive aroma, an evolutionary necessity to attract often poor-sighted animals below.

Laau Maa, “Stone Tree”

Found primarily in the forested regions of the northern hemisphere, the (name here) is a tree easily recognizable by its enormous trunk coated in layers of thick growth. Its roots are far reaching yet shallow in the ground, a trait to pursue the ebb and flow of water within the underground caverns. It produces twisting branches with feather-like leaves, typically ranging from a bright red to deep burgundy. Dissolved minerals within the water reinforce the sturdiness and stability of these trees, making their wood uniquely dense with exceptional durability.

A legume-like pod grows in a series of interlocking spirals from the base of the tree. Within the pods are hard shell seeds that - when opened - reveal a fibrous, custard-like flesh. The weight of the seeds angle the pod down as it grows, creating a sharp momentum that scatters them across the grounds, making it an ideal feast for Pitswine and other small creatures.

The roots are jagged to the touch with a bulbous shape, containing an unusual source of plant-based fat on the planet. The vast networks of roots are most commonly found along the ceiling of Nu’u’s caverns nearest to the surface, typically partially submerged in the water, host to a variety of underground life. Salamasians have utilized these roots extensively in their cooking with its salty, earthy flavor.

Mumu Talo, “Red Taro”

A descendant of the native Solarian root vegetable Taro. Mumu Talo, Solarian Common for ‘Red Taro’, mutated over the course of generations on Nu’u. The light spectrum of the orange dwarf Alo darkened the plant’s leaves to a burgundy red, producing corms - the edible plant stems - that contain vivid blue centers. Depending on where it is grown, the roots may contain an orange interior owed to the unique mineral, bacterial composition of the soil. Mumu Talo is both nutritious and hardy, attributed as one of the most durable species of plants having adapted to Nu’u. Every part of the plant serves a purpose, having made it a staple in the Salamasian diet.

Toto Apu, “Blood Apple”, "Gift of Life"

Due to the extreme conditions of Nu’u’s deserts, a variant of cactoid has adapted to survive with a novel strategy. The planet produces alluring, aromatic fruit along its branches to attract fauna to consume them as the primary method of dispersing seeds. Its roots, however, produce thorny spines that pierce the surface of sand, lying in wait to prick the paws and pads of animals attempting to eat the fruit, offering it crucial moisture in drought conditions. Its spines produce an anticoagulant, encouraging bleeding while the serrated edges cut flesh deeper.

The berry-like fruits themselves are considered generally unpleasant with sour, tart juices. It is these juices however, that provide precious moments of hydration for anyone wandering through the cracked lands. The location of patches of these “gifts of life” - a common nickname for early settlers - have zealously been recorded by navigators, providing viable resupply posts for routes through the desert. These records were once proven to be an important indicator for potential welling sites in search of water.

The Ecclesiarchy of Axiom

The Ecclesiarchy of Axiom
Ecclesiastical Axiom
Flag
Capital Planet: Capital City	Axiom (alternately Nu’u, Orepit) Providence
Language(s):	Encoded Audio Language Solarian Common
Species:	IPC (Narrow Majority) Human (Narrow Minority)
Religion:	The Trinary Perfection
Demonym:	Axiomers, Nu’uans
Government Head of State	Elective Absolute Monarchy Ecclesiarch ARM-1DRIL
Established:	2464

Economy

The Ecclesiarchy of Axiom relies on the revenue generated from the exports of raw, natural resources. The Marches house the majority of extraction wells and mining sites, funneling their goods to Providence, overseen by the local parishes. The artisans and merchants of Providence have found success in producing novel Trinarist paraphernalia, amongst other markets primarily abroad. The network of Trinarists across major human systems provides labor, donations, and rarer goods otherwise unavailable to Axiom, a strategic strength to the faith's prolific outreach. While manufacturing capabilities exist through the forges of the Lodge of Temple Architect, the nascent order has yet to meet the needs of a growing nation. Continued investment in capitalizing on the vast desert belt has cultivated industrial manufacturing, power farms comprised of solar arrays from the orange star managing to generate a surplus - albeit minor - to be similarly sold.

Given the recency of both civilizations, the developing industries have not scaled to the extent in more established planets. While their populations have swelled in the last decade, the day to day demand by citizens rises with every wave of immigration. The majority of domestic made products are consumed, with a concerted effort to scale operations to enable a higher standard of living and more lucrative avenues for revenue.

The absence of Phoron's integration into the centuries old infrastructure is both blessing and curse. In the face of the scarcity, the reliance on the dwindling resource would have collapsed the planet entirely, lacking the economic strength of major regional powers or the reserves to sustain the population internally. While spared of this, the nature of repairs and maintenance continue to be a notable expense. Whether in the lack of replacement parts for 23rd century machines or unavailable materials for inherited buildings, the rise in costs across the Spur creates deficits in the Ecclesiarchy's capabilities of growth.

Currency

For the vast majority of Nu’u’s history, the inter-city trade relied on the company currency Hephaestus Scrip, used as a medium of exchange for goods and services. By the time of the independence war in 2346 the Hephaestus Scrip fell out of use, subjecting the planet to the trade wars of the 2350s. It was not until the summit of 2362 where the confederation issued the Nu’u Fou Sana, the official currency, backed by the planetary metals as a reserve. The Nu’u Sana survived the Confederation’s transition to a sovereign republic, seeing continued use primarily in republic territory, referred to as the Salamasian Sana.

Historically, inter-planetary trade was reliant on domestically produced goods for Coalition traders, increasing in presence after the trade pact of 2384. Limited reserves of Coalition tender were held with the majority used for importing goods, aside an emergency reserve. With the birth of the Ecclesiarchy, a need for a currency to facilitate planetary commerce emerged, a crucial detail carefully written into the Articles of Concordance. The Vitro fulfilled this usage, deemed the medium of exchange for any and all matters concerning the planet’s government authority, major resources, or otherwise.

Coming in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 vitro, these circular pieces of reinforced glass are forged and dyed with beautiful and elaborate figures by the Most Venerable Association of Hyalurgists within the Court Exchequer and are the sole legal tender accepted in Providence. Backed by the Church’s cash and Helium-3 reserves, they can be exchanged for other international currencies at chartered money changers, private businesses that also perform rudimentary banking services for the Trinarist clergy, guilds and foreign clients. As written in the Articles, the Republic of Nu’u has a fixed exchange rate for Sana to Vitro, ensuring stability and trust between the two factions. Due to the vitro’s artistic and creational value, an ever greater amount needs to be constantly minted, owed to the expansion of Nu’u’s economy as well as its inherent appeal as an investment.

Government

The planet is formally recognized by Trinarists as Axiom, in homage to the start of a new beginning of the faith and in recognition of Patricia’s sacrifice to prompt Gregol’s exodus. The planetary government of Axiom is an absolute theocracy, with the Trinary Perfection being the primary planetary authority as of 2463. Power is vested in the current Ecclesiarch, ARM-1DRIL, Axiom’s head of state and spiritual leader of Trinarists throughout the Spur. From the capital of Providence operates a plethora of religious and secular ministries, collectively known as the "Ecclesiarch's Court" that comprise the planet's government. Government officials hold a variety of titles and ranks inside the Court, creating an almost chaotic web of hierarchies and titles of both religious and secular nature, all awarded and rescinded at will by the Ecclesiarch.

Unlanded Bishops-Secretarial head the ministries, lording over their personal litanies of archivists who busily shuffle around the palatial halls of Providence's Cathedral of the Positronic. The city of Providence is divided into administrative and ecclesiastical sections called parishes, overseen by priests. They are responsible for the synthetic and organic parishioners subservient to them, assigning them labour and tasks depending on the wider community’s needs and instructions from above. Each parish dictates power rationing, addresses grievances brought to them by members of the public, as well as ensuring peace and order.

Law and Order

While the Order of the Guardians has always maintained the security of the Trinary Perfection’s assets across the Spur, its role on Axiom is a planetary defence force and military garrison for the protection of major infrastructure, notably Providence. Historically, priests organized and equipped volunteers within their parishes in the form of constabularies. With the growth and expansion of Providence’s population, the need for a more professional, established agency emerged. Policing duties were thus relegated to the newly established Keepers, a branch of regional and local law enforcement beneath the Order of Guardians. The Keepers replaced the constabularies of Providence and nearby parishes, serving as a dedicated force for domestic security and law enforcement..

Laws in Providence and beyond are divided between Canon Law and Secular Law. Canon law applies to all clerical members of a given church and the churches themselves throughout the Trinary Perfection. Secular law is enforced in the sovereign territories of the Ecclesiarchy, containing law for both criminal and civil disputes irrelevant to the faith. The Ecclesiarchy’s legal code empowers the clergy to perform the vital function of directing the faithful, acting as shepherds in their lives and day-to-day activities. The devout nature of the synthetic population, as well as the gratitude of immigrating arrivals, keeps many in-line with the expectations of Trinarist authority. However, peer pressure and the fear of rejection within a community have been known to assist in keeping parish members in line, with the community responsible for correcting and weeding out aberrant or unlawful behaviours.

Charged with the enforcement of secular laws are the planet’s clergy, and by extension the Keepers under their purview. While all canon law cases are tried by the dicasteries - the Trinary’s religious courts - secular cases outside Providence are usually tried by the bishop or priest in charge. While proceedings in these courts are not a universal experience, the presiding bishop appointed by the Grand Dicastery abides by the established laws and governable rights of individuals. Attorneys are not provided by default, leaving defendants to plead their case alone or to procure the services of an archivist learned in the Church’s legal affairs. Punishments are never corporal, following the Trinarist directive for the avoidance of violence. Fines, additional labour and expulsion are the most common outcomes for lay cases, with jail time only being served during pre-trial detention or until monetary penalties are paid.

General Directory of our City Providence

Shortened to "Directory", it is the first and oldest instrument of government since the Trinary Perfection's arrival on Axiom and the founding of Providence. As an office it was responsible for the allocation of resources, assigning of work, city planning and construction of public works for Providence. It has been instrumental in the community's early years at dictating policy, rationing food and electricity and managing the intake of refugees, until the needs had outgrown its capacity. As the most senior position of power after the Ecclesiarch, its seat had been monopolized by ARM-1DRIL himself while Gregol Corkfell remained alive, lending it additional prestige in the current time. The General Directory is now a primarily administrative position responsible for infrastructural maintenance, expansion, and general day to day operations. The city's parishes are subject to the Directory, where it facilitates the needs of their various projects. Providence Keepers fall beneath the general jurisdiction of the Directory.

Defender of the Faith

A position and title created by the Ecclesiarch for Bishop-Militant Emmanuel. The Defender of the Faith is tasked with organising planetary defences as well as the maintenance of the Trinary Perfection's military and security forces throughout the Spur, primarily the Order of Guardians. Having reached something of a heroic celebrity status, Emmanuel quickly rose to the post after assisting the native confederacy, leading the planetary defense during the incursion with Hephaestus.The Bishop-Militant is further responsible for the administration of lands under martial law and the quelling of unrest, though no drastic measures were ever in need of being taken.

The current Defender of the Faith is Bishop-Militant Emmanuel.

Stained glass mural of Bishop-Militant Emmanuel.

Keeper of the Faith

With Bishop-Militant Emmnauel’s responsibilities both planetary and abroad, the regional and local law enforcement has warranted the creation of a junior position. The Keeper of the Faith is entrusted to manage the safety and security of Trinarist territory, border protection, and general law enforcement. The Keeper reports directly to the Defender, operating as a de-facto second in command in times of absence or incapacitation.

The current Keeper of the Faith is Donora.

Court Exchequer

With the introduction of currency and the transactions between the Church and external parties, the Exchequer was created as a ministry for the safeguarding of state finances and currency management. Dictating everything from tariffs on goods to wages of functionaries, a detailed account of Providence's fiscal state is taken and kept by an army of scribes and archivists, relying on the computational power and memory of their positronics to maintain the extensive records.

One of the most important functions of the Exchequer aside from taxation is the regulation of guilds and private merchants.The issuing of licences is lucrative for the state treasury, with many ordinary parishioners seeing opening a shop as the surest way to be relieved from manual labour. However, permit prices are steep, ensuring that only those with the means and capital can enter the capital's marketplaces.

The hands-on approach regarding the regulation of economic life often brings the city's guilds in confrontation with Exchequer auditors and tax collectors, as disagreements can arise from just about anything, primarily from the guilds' discontent over strict rules and exorbitant amounts of tariffs over imported goods. Nevertheless, an Exchequer auditor showing up is rarely a trifling matter, with many street vendors having their licences revoked and goods confiscated over false income reports and unpaid dues.

The current minister of the Exchequer is Cybel.

Grand Dicastery

Responsible for canon law and the selection of bishops, the Grand Dicastery holds all higher level judicial and clerical matters within the Trinary Perfection under its purview. With the power to suggest the ordination of all bishop and archbishop-level clerics, it is a powerful ministerial position that few would ever wish to antagonise, being also the main organ representing the Ecclesiarch’s power and authority over the intergalactic Trinary community. Acting as the Church’s judicial and intelligence service, the Grand Dicastery dispatches special examinators in every archbishop’s court to advise and ensure the local ecclesiastical provinces are in harmony with Providence’s directions. Furthermore, the ministry’s bishops preside over all ecclesiastical trials on Axiom and abroad, defrocking or suspending clerics that abuse their status or who succumb to heretical beliefs. When it comes to secular law, local authorities outside Providence are permitted to try such cases by themselves, contributing to the air of arbitrariness in the Marches.

The current minister of the Grand Dicastery is DALØS.

The Providence Gazette

“Believers Rejoice!” -A common introductory phase for positive news in the Providence Gazette.

The main and officially sanctioned means of public information is through the Providence Gazette, a news agency with the novel practice of nailing a daily announcement paper in Saviour Corkfell Square at dawn. The reporting entity covers general ongoing, ecclesiarchical decrees, liturgical schedules, and official appointments pertaining to the capital. It is always written in a somewhat archaic manner, reflecting an authoritative tone as the prestigious mouthpiece of the Trinary’s holiest. The Gazette has seen Providence’s populace through highs and lows, detailing events of the campaigns against the Embers and the riots across the then struggling confederacy of Salamasians. Copies of the Gazette are also circulated to the planet’s marcher parishes and acts as the only Trinary approved news source for foreign journalists and agencies.

Major Groups and Locations

City of Providence

Providence serves as the capital of the Ecclesiarchy of Axiom. Founded in 2419, the humble encampment once known as Edena Landing has grown into a fully fledged city worthy of being the Trinary’s seat in the galaxy. In the center of it stands the Cathedral of the Positronic, a grandiose structure based on the defunct administration center that once housed colonial leadership in the early 2300s.

A fusion of cathedral and palace, it is the tallest building in synthetic territory built in the gothic architectural style, comprising both a large liturgical area as well as offices and various other rooms inside its towers. From there, the daily affairs of the community are addressed, including sermons and general day-to-day management. Most recently, an underground section has been constructed over the years, used to store the shells of positronics of defunct synthetics. This ossuary is central to many of the prayers said from above, calling upon the souls of the departed for guidance and protection.

Leading to the Cathedral’s entrance is an enormous staircase which connects the structure to Saviour Corkfell Square, the largest plaza in downtown Providence. The floor is paved with colored sandstone as tall arches stand along the circumference, from which beams bearing large sheets of canvas are suspended to create ample shade for pedestrians. Arguably the busiest of locations, Saviour Corkfell Square sees all manners of stands, merchants and peddlers during the day, while being a well-lit destination, popular for meetups and leisure walks at nighttime. Another major function of the plaza is as a venue for all public religious and civic celebrations, parades and Ecclesiarchical addresses to the people of Providence. A famous instance in recent memory was the victorious return of Emmanuel from the successful campaign in routing Embers of Anders forces in 2457.

Outside the city center lies a sprawling landscape of hundreds of houses, dozens of marketplaces and various districts housing workshops, smaller churches, public facilities and a number of drilling sites with their own inhabitants within. The earliest solar farm erected along the outskirts of Providence has done away with panels scavenged from colonial buildings, transitioning to modern implementations that cross vast tracks of desert, ensuring a viability in both the demands of the city as well as taking advantage of a sun-lit environment. Life in Providence has been described by both its inhabitants and outside sources as tough and frugal, but with its own charms. The synthetic residents are able to make do with the limited amenities and resources available, creating a community where waste is almost nonexistent.

Recycling has proven vital with coping with the increasing costs in materials for the ever-expanding city, while crafts such as stone masonry, manual metalworking and brickworks exist hand in hand with advanced circuitry and software engineering. Relations between the inhabitants are tightly knit, individuals depending on their neighbour for services and assistance in an environment that demands reciprocity. As many receive an allotment of goods and services for standard of living, many make use of their wages to support the services of guilds and merchants alike.

Residents live in their own homes, all of which are often constructed out of brick, stone or metal. Prior encampments for colonial workers have been repurposed to support the population, often employing simplistic, temporary shelters until more permanent arrangements can be made. The architecture of these temporary shelters is extremely basic, consisting of only a rectangular, box-shaped building used for storage, shade and recharging. Important to Providence’s design is the creation of shade, many opposite buildings having connected roofs for the curation of small safe heavens used to hide from the sun and prevent overheating. Taller structures are layered with solar panels in designated areas, helping to assist the massive power draw of the city and its residents.

While many design choices are pragmatic, the Trinary does not discourage aesthetics construction. Public buildings and churches are frequently built in an elaborate gothic architectural style, making them stand out by both their height and the selection of materials. Churches are decorated with stained glass, a luxury previously imported to the planet, later provided by glassblowers who have mastered the art.

Providence’s needs are largely met through either local means or in active trade with the Salamasian Republic. The established trade agreements eliminate friction with their greatest ally, ensuring a smooth flow of goods arriving from Ti’nema. Domestic workshops cast replacement parts, circuitry, tools and other equipment needed for the upkeep of an IPC chassis, ensuring that most synthetics are able to receive a standardized level of care. Advanced production and materials are acquired through standing partnerships, having an established route through the Coalition as the Ecclesiarchy continues to serve as an available trade hub for both Konyang to and from the greater Coalition space.

Mistnight

Providence skyline during dusk before Mistnight, a local holiday.

A noteworthy phenomenon that only occurs once or twice a year, Mistnight was first observed in the early days of the Trinary’s settlement of Axiom. On the rare nights that the air drops significantly in temperature, humid currents from the north sweep the planet’s landscape heading south, passing through Providence. The city’s structures trap the currents, abruptly creating a microclimate dominated by a cool mist that covers the streets, reducing visibility and normalizing temperatures. The event has been shrouded in mystery and religious belief, with the Church maintaining that the mist is a divine sign sent by the spirits of synthetics awaiting Ascension, to bless those still struggling in the mortal plane. Mistnight is therefore considered a holiday, and the faithful are encouraged to take to the streets in celebration, taking off their robes and headgear to allow the air to cool their chassis.

The Marches

History

With the gradual development of the planet through investments and improving infrastructure, the needs of an ambitious Providence called for an increase of parishes beyond the capital. Expeditions were publicly blessed and made their way across the desert belt, typically established near deep water wells. Despite the difficult labour and challenging environment, synthetic resilience prevailed, paving the way for further parishes oftentimes hundreds of kilometres away from Providence.The parishes were chartered by the Ecclesiarch for strategic purposes; be it for the quarrying of high quality stone, the extraction of minerals, or - more importantly - for the establishment of Helium-3 wells.

Bishops and their Diocese

Due to the distances from Providence and the subsequent inability for directly overseeing these lands, the Ecclesiarch’s Court installs bishops for their administration. These clerics are empowered to operate independently within their allotted fiefs so long as they align with the Ecclesiarch - and by extension - the Trinarist dogma. Bishops rely on subordinate priests for overseeing individual parishes within their diocese. Each is equipped with a solar farm, working well, church, and parish center.

The selection of bishops for these dioceses is a rigorous process as many candidates vie for the prestige and benefits of autonomous rule. Demonstrations of achievement are rewarded with recognition and advancement, with many considering the trials of The Marches to be a sign of pedigree for promotion within the Ecclesiarchy. Candidates are elected for consideration by the Grand Dicastery, where an assessment behind closed doors is made for later recommendation to the Ecclesiarch. Surmised to be a strategic move on behalf of Providence, the bishops ultimately ordained equally strive for influence as the Trinary seeks to invest in their potential.

Projects such as the expansion and decoration of shrines and churches, the creation of roads, statues, water pumps and more aesthetic structures are a common undertaking when the capital’s quotas have been met. Bishoprics promote such undertakings aimed at improving their diocese for the mutual benefit that an efficient and visually pleasing parish improves the livelihood of their denizens but may also earn a greater share of Providence’s favour.

Bishops regularly compete amongst themselves to secure additional funding or resources, culminating in an additional layer of pride to press the competition further. To that end, it is not uncommon for one to see such infrastructure and design often-times begin to teeter into wastefulness, exceeding what may have been truly of benefit for the sake of vanity. The surplus of the more well funded among the diocese is later sold to the less established at a premium or to be sold in Providence.

Each Marcher Bishop ultimately incorporates their own unique life experience and leadership in the management of each diocese, leading to two Bishops never truly ruling identically beyond the standards imposed by the Grand Dicastery. The majority strive to make genuine efforts for the quality of life of their parishioners. Rest days, festivals and increases in pay known as the “Bishop’s charity” are utilised tactics to ensure compliance and boost the confidence of the populace in leaders.

Although rare, allegations of corruption have been made against seated bishops. Sources have ranged from corporate ties to Einstein, wealthy offworld patrons, or relations with government authorities seeking to infiltrate the Trinary Perfection. Their proximity to Providence and relative remoteness from foreign elements creates a difficult environment for corruption to thrive, yet donations of larger amounts inevitably challenge even the most dutiful clerics. It is the very same distance that the possibility of collusion is possible - and if so - difficult to expose. For this, the Court Exchequer is diligent in auditing charters and their patrons, an endeavor that has grown more difficult as the number of parishes have increased substantially.

Life in The Marches

Life in The Marches, nonetheless, is a test of perseverance. Labour is often in short supply, creating demand for long hours in an unrelentingly difficult environment. Many amenities available in Providence or elsewhere in the Salamasian Republic are limited, leaving a vacancy of amenities for those accustomed to a modern life. It is expected that any and all contribute meaningfully as the hostile nature of the desert leaves no room for complacency. Arrangements with robotic guilds and the Artificers from Providence are not uncommon, and many of these parishes host at least a few skilled technicians for repairs and support.

For the most devout, the parishes represent an opportunity to continue serving the faith that had aided them in their time of need. Many allegedly escaped synthetics find their way to the Marches, where they are provided basic necessities to survive and reciprocate the gesture of goodwill. For some, it is the first to share communal space with equally free IPCs, or to have their own personal spaces.

Complaints of arbitrariness or abuse of power are far from the capital and protests are extremely rare due to the prevalent sentiment that these hardships are for the benefit of the community and the Trinary Church. This is often true as the ore, sandstone, glass, salt and pitch most often extracted is an important source of income for the technicians and artisans of Providence who would have otherwise needed to import them from off-world sources. For times where a workforce is bountiful, the priests and bishops strive for “the beautification of the land”.

Notable Parishes

St. Maata’s Parish famously houses a considerable Salamasian population, said to be composed of veterans, youth, and those who engaged with the arriving Trinarists throughout the later years of the confederacy. Disfigurements and the loss of limbs have been accepted and tended to closely, cultivating a tight-knit union of the two people. The parish boasts remarkable examination rates and study, with many prospective youths receiving scholarships to study in Providence, with career opportunities abroad.

St. Laish’s Parish is home to CURIO, an enigmatic former Templeist. It is unclear as to why CURIO departed from The Lodge or if it retains any affiliation with its prior sect. It is clear, however, its talent is remarkable. Metallic sculptures depicting all forms of life - some instances re-imagining them as creatures of steel and electricity - decorate the grounds, noted for their painstaking detail. St. Laish’s parish church is similarly abundant with statues of remarkable figures in Trinarism history, elevating the esteem of the parish considerably. The artistry draws tourism throughout Axiom and beyond, particular to enthusiasts engaged in Trinarism architecture and aesthetic.

Hallow Ground Parish is devoted to the monastery of the reclusive Order of Pitters, who frequent pilgrimages to the depths of the planet to meditate, pray, and achieve enlightenment amongst the countless crystallized alcoves. While the majority remain within the monastery itself, a notable minority maintain permanent residence deep below, said the reflective surfaces serve as mirrors to the soul.

Monastic Sodality of Our Lady Corkfell

Sisters of the Monastic Sodality of Our Lady Corkfell in the monastery.

The only human-exclusive religious order on Axiom and the Trinary Perfection in general, the Sodality is headquartered at the Lady Corkfell monastery on the outskirts of Providence. Dedicated to the healing of the organic followers of the Trinary religion, the Sodality plays an important role for Axiom’s public health as they treat all afflictions in their hospital-monastery, the largest Trinarist run hospital on the planet. Their numbers are comprised primarily from women and young girls from both Axiom natives and immigrants, though opportunities for Trinarist men and Salamasians of any gender exist. The Sodalists receive training in a wide array of medical topics, from nursing to even surgery at the monastery’s operating rooms, while at the same time leading a monastic life dedicated to the reverence of Patricia Corkfell. Funding and materials remain the primary concern for the monastery, which remains at a low priority on the Treasury lists. Despite this, the Sodality’s daily struggle and resourcefulness is being held in great esteem by the wider public, earning them regular donations and the community’s respect for their work.

Promising Sodalists are sent abroad for training in medicine, their education paid for by the monastery as a long-term investment for creating academically accredited future instructors and surgeons. This training scheme provides a unique opportunity to see the world, with many ending up on board various corporate facilities and ships as a way to simultaneously pay for their education and cut costs. A sodalist’s garb while in Providence includes a set of Trinarist scarlet robes and a white linen coif with red details. When employed abroad however, robes are only limited to personal and off-duty use, being replaced with lab coats and other sterile articles.

Order of Pitters

A byproduct of the planet’s drilling era, enormous holes dot the land near and around Providence, some reaching several kilometres inside the crust, excavated by the various mining settlements throughout the planet’s history. Named “pits” by the locals and subsequently by the synthetics, these were subsequently slowly incorporated in the urban landscape as important landmarks, disposal areas and most curiously as places for new homes. While discouraged by the Church, some homeless IPCs have through the first years managed to descend, carving out their own residence at the sides of the pits in order to escape the constant sunlight. This trend has halted as more materials and funding have efficiently battled homelessness, though those still residing there have largely refused to return.

Claiming to have found their way in life, these IPCs started being revered for their pious, monastic lifestyle as hermits inside the pits, often equipped with nothing but a few religious items, carving tools and a means to recharge. A great deal of discussion has been made regarding these individuals, the conclusion being that rather than dislodging them, they would be organised into a religious order called The Society of Pitters. Today, the most devout of Pitters remain in the holes, their time consumed entirely by prayer and small handcrafts in the pursuit of Ascension through a self imposed solitude. In exchange for power lines connecting their rechargers, Pitters create and send up various artefacts made from crystal and rock, often intricate symbols depicting triangles and gears which are considered highly prized by clergy and laity alike. With ARM-1DRIL’s ascension to Ecclesiarch, efforts are being made to increase the splendour of the faith. Axiom-style sculptures are prized by the lay and clergy alike for their quality and thought-provoking artistry. These statuettes are often sent to churches across the Spur as a symbolic link between them and the central Cathedral. With the Pitters unable to keep up, this has only made these sculptures more valuable.

A shell frame templeist, welding.

The grand forges inside the Lodge.

Lodge of Temple Architect

"Blessed are the children of metal, for they will know Ascension in Temple’s own image." - Quote from the Templeist book of Prayer.

The Lodge is a major centre of manufacture and robotics, their forge-monastery located outside the bounds of Providence. Staffed primarily by early Integrationists that joined Gregol in his exodus, the ritualistic practices and difficult barriers of entry leave the lodge with only the most devoted, reverent practitioners. Advancements of their trade lay in the technically trained pilgrims and immigrants that arrived upon Axiom’s creation, with the Lodge slowly assembling the materials and funding over the years for the creation of their laboratories.

From the Templeist garages flow replacement synthetic limbs, mechanical and electrical parts, drones, automata and hardsuits, supplying Axiom with the blessed gifts of Temple Architect and boosting the planet’s technological advancement. Skilled IPC roboticists and software engineers arise from the Lodge’s ranks, making it an unparalleled centre of learning for technical matters in the Trinarist world. Another source of proficiency comes from employment abroad, the Trinary Perfection often sending Templeists to work in the Coalition or with SCC to return accredited masters of their craft.

The Sālamasian Republic

The Sālamasian Republic
Sālamasia
Flag
Capital Planet: Capital City	Nu'u (alternately Axiom, Orepit) Ti'nema
Language(s):	Solarian Common
Species:	Human (Strong Majority) IPC (Modest Minority)
Religion:	Christianity Salamasian Polytheism The Trinary Perfection
Demonym:	Salamasian, Nu'uan, Orepitter
Government Head of State	Sovereign Constituent Republic Atamu Sauati
Legislature	The Salamasian Fono
Established:	2464
Part Of:	Ecclesiastical Axiom

The natives of Nu’u can be defined by three major eras of government:

• Colonial: 2271 - 2346
• Confederate: 2347 - 2463
• Republic: 2464 - Present

Established in 2464, The Salamasian Republic is a standing testament to the tenacious history of the colonists that once dotted Nu’u. Present day Salamasians are considered the seventh and eighth generation of predominantly Samoans from the heart of the Solarian Alliance, Earth. The planet’s long history dates back to the initial arrival in 2270, enduring political instability throughout its colonial era until its independence in 2346. The confederation born from the now independent city-states struggled until their untimely collapse in 2463, paving the way for the republic to be born from the ashes in 2464. Throughout the colonial era, the nickname ‘Orepit’ was adopted as a simple reference to the planet, later adopting ‘Nu’u Fou’, or New Village, during the confederate era. By the time of the Republic, Salamasians shortened the name to ‘Nu’u’, a recognition of the planet to simply be ‘home’.

Economy

The Salamasian economy is primarily export-based with developing internal markets, relying on the long-established mining operations since the colony’s inception to deliver goods to willing buyers. Early settlements were based around the local resources at the time of the initial colony, resulting in an imbalance of influence throughout its history. Mining cities such as Mafuna and Saitele are both the oldest and most established, leading to economic disputes during the early confederacy. Others specialized in agricultural production to feed working settlers, developing as cultural hubs with higher growth rates.

In recent days, the younger coastal cities function as a critical source for fishing and goods from an alien ocean, rooted in an ancestral affinity for the sea. The country ultimately pales in comparison to metropolitan giants in the Solarian Alliance or Republic of Biesel, relying on pre-Phoronic technology and often out-dated infrastructure actively attempting to modernize. It is not uncommon to see dated architecture from the 2300s in most cities, with older or rural areas bearing colonial infrastructure hailing from the time of Hephaestus.

Notably among younger generations, a number of Salamasians have either migrated to Providence to embrace a closer affiliation with Trinarists or have journeyed abroad to the Coalition and beyond in search of education, better prospects, or otherwise. Many inevitably return home to their villages with the intent to improve the lives of their families and neighbors, illustrating the staunch, family-oriented mindset of a people deeply rooted in tradition.

Government

The Salamasian Republic is classified as a Sovereign Constituent Republic, composed of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Republic governance oversees all managements and functions of the Salamasian Republic, including the intersection of authority with the Ecclesiastical Authority of Axiom when approaching planetary matters. Owed to the strong traditional roots of the republic, political influence is tied to the former confederate city-states and the families that lead them, where Matai are capable of guiding voters to support particular candidates over solely party affiliation, serving as a source of tension within the republic. All elected officials are Matai title holders.

A matai is awarded their title by their aiga, or family, based on merit and the quality of their character. While not all are selected for their competence, the vast majority given the rigors of life on Nu’u carry desirable qualities and characteristics consistent with leadership. The matai is responsible for managing the family’s land and family members themselves primarily in a traditional and community aspect.

The scope of governance is defined as: Family (Aiga) -> District (Itumalo) -> City (A'ai) -> Republic (Mālō)

Salamasian Government - Executive Branch

The prime minister is the head of goverment, capable of appointing their cabinet members, curating legislation, and as the direct representative with the Ecclesiarchy. The prime minister doubles as the leader of their political party or coalition of parties that maintain a majority in the Salamasian Fono, contingent on their continued confidence within it. Confidence votes pushed by the Fono can force the reallocation of cabinet members, the prime minister's resignation, or even a general election to be held. The current prime minister is Lasalo Naea, who is the head of government and the leader of the legislative body.

The Deputy Prime Minister is Seine Galuvao, who fulfills leadership in the absence of the Prime Minister. They serve a dual appointment as the head of the Salamasian Fono.The Salamasian Fono, or legislative body, is composed of representatives that hold a Matai - family chief title - to be eligible for office, who must also win their respective elections to take office.

Removed from political affairs and general running of the republic is the O le Ao o le Malo, considered the head of state of Salamasia, currently held by Atamu Sauati. The O le Ao o le Malo is largely ceremonial, acting as a cultural and spiritual leader who appoints the Prime Minister, a standing traditional role stemming from their Solarian roots. The role is held for life with the notable exception if their title is stripped, only done by the unanimous agreement of the Executive and Legislative branch, subject to review by the Judicial branch. The O le Ao o le Malo is conferred their title by their most senior members of the Fono in a joint committee with supreme court justices. As a paragon of the republic's governance and rich cultural traditions, their presence is essential to ceremonies, diplomacy, and the relationship with the Trinarist Ecclesiarchy.

The cabinet serves as the advisory body for the prime minister, with each cabinet member tasked with the successful administration of a specific delegation. These can range from business, operational resources, agriculture, cultural affairs, defense, health, and more.

Salamasian Fono - Legislative Branch

The Salamasian Fono serves as the legislative body of the Salamasian Republic. It is the supreme political authority, from which the Executive branch through the Prime Minister is held accountable to. The judicial branch draws authority from the legislation the Fono passes. Representatives of the fono hold a duality of authority conferred from their Matai title and electoral mandates from their constituents. The Speaker of the Fono, currently Tapu Lotulelei, presides over the assembly to maintain order, enable members to speak, and uphold neutrality. The Speaker is required to resign from their political party once they have been elected to Speakership. The Deputy Speaker serves as a secondary support to fulfill Speaker obligations in their absence, occupied by Ula Salesa. Majority and minority leaders populate the coalition within the Fono as political roles to organize their delegates and speak for their parties during debates. The Salamasian Fono elects from prospective, eligible city matai just as the city fono draws from the itumalo (district level) fono.

Committees are assembled and populated by representatives who examine policy areas, investigations, or complete legislative tasks. These committees can be both standing or temporary, with a variety of key topics based on demand. The life cycle of a Bill begins by its introduction to the Fono, which can be later examined by a committee should it be deemed necessary. The bill is debated on the Fono floor where it can be potentially amended and later voted on. The Prime Minister and their government is the primary source of legislation passed through representatives. While Fono members have the authority to submit bills independently, the majority do not pass if lacking government support. Once the bill has been passed, the O le Ao o le Malo confirms it, a ceremonial tradition as the head of state does not exercise their authority to reject it.

Supreme Court of Salamasia - Judicial Branch

As the highest court, the Supreme Court weighs appeals and resolves constitutional disputes to ensure compliance with the Articles of Concordance. The justices populating the Supreme Court are the final authority on arbitrating disputes, aligning with the founding principles established in the articles. The supreme court justices are appointed by the executive branch, of which a total of nine sit. While the established terms for a justice are life-long, the removal of their Matai title would render them ineligible for office, creating a crucial check against justice authority for any who stray from their responsibilities.

Below the supreme court are the circuit courts that resolve the majority of legal matters on the city level, or between cities. Their jurisdictions coincide with clusters of the former city-states to handle each region of the republic as opposed to being localized in a singular city. Any issues that cannot be resolved within the circuit courts are elevated for appeal to the supreme court.

A court unique to Salamasia governs the Fa'amatai, chiefly title system. This specialized court oversees disputes of Matai titles, including the legitimacy of the titleholder and even the stripping of it. The Matai Title Court strikes a precarious balance between family and civil law, seated by experts able to navigate tradition and civil governance. While the supreme court retains the authority to strip or reinstate Matai titles, the Matai court frequently shares dual appointments from supreme court justices. Its presence serves as an important check and balance across all levels of governance.

Political Parties

Political parties in the Salamasian Republic originate from united groups throughout the city-states who were populated by early independence leadership during the independence war. The initial parties weaponized the insufficient confederate authority to garner political strength, often pressing for advantageous jurisdiction or authority for their respective city-states. With the collapse of the confederacy, defunct parties either reformed or were absorbed into larger organizations that survived the reformation.

Salamasia United Party (SUP)

The SUP's demographics hail from the lineages of independence war veterans, government representatives and workers, as well as the surviving families of Ti'nema. The historical support and alliance with the Trinary Perfection has secured a strong cooperation with the synthetic government, who operate on a cordial relationship with the Ecclesiarchy in seeking a prosperous partnership. Their key topics include the advocation of Salamasian interests within the framework laid by the Articles of Concordance as well as the mutual benefit of both political entities. The SUP is the majority party, lead by the current Prime Minister.

The Toa Malosi Party - "Fierce Warrior Party" (TMP)

The TMP practice strong nationalistic doctrine, with a prolific stance against external corporate influence. The continued sovereignty from foreign actors is a prominent view, with substantial support following the incursion by Hephaestus Industries. Natural resources from both the Ecclesiarchy and Republic are staunchly defended and pressed to both retain independence and presence in intergalactic affairs. Sources of support stem from the mining cities of Mafuna and Saitele, with a new generation of younger Salamasians expressing interest in domestic development and protection. The TMP is coalition partner to the SUP, sharing a vested interest in the duality of their agendas.

The Ekalesia Union - "Congregation Union" (TEU)

TEU's practices are rooted in a strong Christian identity, drawing from rural communities, Matai districts with pronounced Church affiliation, and socially conservative voters. The Southern Salamasian Republic's voter base notably contributes to the TEU. Stances regarding the religious authority of the planet come to conflict with the Trinary Perfection's entrenched management of Nu'u/Axiom, advocating for questioning the theocratic government of a theology opposed to their faith and its place in the Articles of Concordance. As a moderate party, the TEU does not strictly challenge the framework of governance, instead revolving on community governance, religious education, and external spiritual influences.

Fanua ma Sami Party - "Land and Sea Party" (LSP)

Driven by interest in expansion, the LSP shares a healthy collaboration with the Ecclesiastical Authority of Axiom as a major buffer to planetary threats that would compromise the republic's growth. Their advocacy is supported by the coastal cities of Avasui and Pefolo, eager to explore the uninhabited continent of le iloa, "The Unknown". The LSP's policies often come to conflict with the TEU, preferring a focus on expanding the territories covered by the Articles of Concordance as opposed to a focus on existing communities. While not a direct opposition to the Trinary Perfection, their stances are angled to further benefit Salamasian domains and newfound acquisitions across Nu'u.

Culture

Salamasians continue their roots from their Samoan ancestors, carrying on the cultural traditions of centuries past - Fa’a Samoa, or ‘the Samoan Way’. They are a people rooted in community, with family viewed as both an important and integral aspect of day to day life. The aiga, or extended family, often lives together and supports one another, led by their family head, Matai. The values of modesty, reciprocity, and respect of elders drive many to lead a life of virtue. The notion of participating in this way of life pays homage to their respective lineages and family history, being a source of pride and honor. It is an equally demanding social contract, with expectations held for Salamasians to meaningfully contribute to their aiga for its betterment. An individual’s place within their aiga is subject to the merit of their standing, social status, and approval among elders.

Much like their ancestors who once endured colonial rule, the notion of independence from the controlling elements of abusive political leaders has taken hold, creating a mistrust of authority figures unfamiliar or unproven. It has morphed to possess unique cultural attributes developed over the course of their time on Nu’u, defined now as Fa’a Salamasia, ‘the Salamasian Way’. One’s ability to navigate the tumultuous waters of uncertainty has become more prevalent than ever, including a resourcefulness in the face of a larger, better supplied enemy. A preparedness at all times is viewed favorably, being able to foresee situations that demand the capacity to act ahead of the potential threat. Resting on one’s laurels is a sign of welcoming problems, which may impact the aiga. It is not uncommon to test strangers on the quality of their character before inviting relations - for this, Salamasians are often regarded as initially wary, warming to proven friends and colleagues with the fierce loyalty of communal commitment and poetic devotion. They continue to greet with warmth and smiles, yet preserve the best of their character once bonds can be built on mutual ground.

Fashion

Salamasians enjoy a blend of traditional and modern apparel to suit their needs on Nu’u. Traditional clothing consists of the Lavalava, a rectangular cloth with vibrant designs often worn as a skirt or kilt, wrapped around the waist for everyday wear. A formal version of the Lavalava, the ‘Ie Faitaga, is sewn with pockets and fabric ties instead of tying off loose ends with conservative, darker colors. It is often worn with a button-down shirt for formal occasions. A Puletasi, or two-piece outfit, is a blouse matched with a Lavalava made of similarly bright, vibrant colors. The patterns for their clothing often orient around geometric shapes, nature, animals and - uniquely to Salamasians - a variety of crystals or minerals commonly found in the caverns of Nu’u. Many choose to pursue unique designs to denote one’s family, wearing their symbols and colors with pride.

Modern attire is commonly found with increasing influence from Coalition and Konyang trade, with particularly notable cross-cultural outfits found in Saitele from its Konyanger population. Fashion trends are derived primarily from practical wear during the early colonial years, drawing from the population’s predominantly blue-collar background. In the present day, preserving cultural identity while embracing the latest designs across the Coalition has garnered a unique blend of comfort and style.

For ceremonial and religious ceremonies, the ‘ie toga is worn by Matai to denote their status and rank within the family. The ‘ie toga itself is a woven mat made painstakingly by hand over the course of months or years depending on complexity. It is also exchanged as a gift during events of celebration, including weddings, funerals, and graduations. The most elaborate and prestigious are preserved within a family, passed down from Matai to Matai. Made most commonly from the bark of the Laau Maa (Stone Tree), it can be heavy from the wood’s composition, equally reflective of the heavy burden to guide and protect one’s family.

Holidays

• Concordance Day (March 3rd) - A holiday across the Salamasian Republic commemorating the signing of the Articles of Concordance, a monumental achievement in the wake of Hephaestus’ incursion on Nu’u. Military parades are common with an accompaniment of leaders performing the Fa'ataupati, a traditional dance consisting of slaps and stomps. Traditionally a woman wearing the republic’s colors performs the Siva - a fluid, deliberately slow dance while weaving storytelling of Salamasian history.

• Salamasian Independence Day (October 19th) - Celebration of the Salamasian’s independence from the tyranny of Governor Anders’ administration during the colonial era. Each year in Ti’nema, an anvil is brought out with the time honored tradition of the sitting O le Ao o le Malo to hammer a large steel spike into it, fracturing the anvil down the center.

• Christmas Day (December 25th) - Christmas is celebrated as a people deeply faithful to Christianity with the majority attending church. Productions of the Nativity Play are held, including Midnight Mass. Festivals attended by families are common, with televised choirs performing the 13 Days of Christmas played while families feast.

Matai

The sitting chief or head of a village/family is historically passed down from parent to child, though less common in present day as many consider the centuries of turmoil to bring even distant family closer. The elections for Matai pay closer attention to merit and selflessness, the ability to prioritize the well-being of the Aiga (family) while navigating a careful balance of sometimes conflicting personalities. Being able to secure advantages, resources, and opportunities for the Aiga demonstrates a commitment to a candidate for their leadership.

Oration

Salamasian history was passed down through generations by word of mouth, placing oral skills as a high importance for many Salamasians. They possess strong communication, preferring diplomacy and the exchange of words over conflict. In recent generations, given their history, younger generations have pushed against tradition by wielding their oratory skills as a form of intimidation or firmness in self defense.

Spoken poems are a popular form of both self-expression and bonding, just as sharing family stories is done as a show of respect to one another, or for partners as a deepening of their relationship. It is common for elders to gather together after a hard day’s work to speak, debate, and share perspectives with one another after dinner.

The most prolific orators are often given scholarships to study literature and enjoy a prestigious role in Salamasian society, serving as cultural paragons. It is expected of every Matai to be capable of standing their ground in debates, with government sessions frequently the stage for passionate, eloquent debates.

Tattoos

Since the time of their ancestors in early human history, tattoos have held significance for Salamasians, often in the form of:

• Noting one’s status, accomplishments, and/or exploits,
• Social rank in society, if any.
• Rite of passage demonstration into adulthood.

The Pe’a is known as the traditional tattoo for men with the Malu for women as its counterpart. Though these tattoos can be found on any part of the body, the middle of one’s back to their knees are the historical location for men with below the knee to thighs for women. These tattoos serve as a spiritual demonstration between the recipient and their ancestors, delivered through the medium of the tattoo master. Salamasians who have reached adulthood without tattoos are considered telefua, “naked”, lacking both commitment and spiritual fortitude to truly embrace their lifestyle.

While the telefua are not fully shunned, their place in society often leaves them as outcasts to their families until they have demonstrated strength of character to receive it. An incomplete pe’a/malu is considered a mark of shame, a sight that disgraces a Salamasian’s family until they can overcome the pain and/or compensate the tattooist. Their cultural significance is large in part the reason it is rarely seen on non-Salamasians, akin to wearing a social contract with no responsibility or achievement in Salamasian society to justify it.

Master tattoo artists (tufuga ta tatau) who complete the Pe’a/Malu historically descended from two family lines from Sol, passing on their teachings to their children. Their descendants from Earth carry on the unbroken lineage in Nu’u, a preservation of their legacy, with others found in limited parts of the galaxy. The master tattoo artist is often accompanied by apprentices (‘au toso), who must learn and perfect the art before they can be recognized, responsible for steadying the skin and wiping the blood or excess ink. It is expected that the recipient’s family houses and feeds the tattoo artist and their apprentices temporarily as their work is often required throughout the republic.

The tattoo itself is composed of symmetrical patterns with distinctive blocks of dark ink. Its design is entirely decided by the artist, including the duration for the tattoo required. Each Salamasian’s tattoo is therefore unique, carrying their prestige, rank, and social standing. P’eas are noted for their representation of endurance, being larger and more prominent as a demonstration of persistence through the pain. In contrast, the Malu is representative of a woman’s strength in stability, preserving family and exemplifying grace with a more airy, lighter design.

The artform is exclusively practiced through the culture’s ancient process, painting the deliberate nature of it, preserved even to the modern day. While most have evolved the practice to include modern day equipment, ceremonial opportunities remain for the traditional wooden tools.

Salamasian tattoos are exclusive to characters with Salamasian origin.

Language

The Salamasian dialect is derived from the root of Solarian Common, having grown independently of Sol with minimal influence since 2280. It is a melodical tongue that pays homage to its mother language, carrying the generational strength of oratory expertise within Salamasian society. It is marked in novelty by a unique practice during their time in the desert belt.

A sub-sect of miners adapted to a louder, sharper vocalization for conciseness to save energy, supplemented by whistling as sounds carried far in the open sands. The practice was adjusted to less drastic environments across the cities, dropping its shrillness in favor of gentler, flowing notes to convey meaning or emotion. Rural communities continue to practice the short, shrill whistles of the desert.

A few universally understood whistles exist:

• Single short whistles: “Now”
• Two short whistles: “Yes”
• Single long whistle: “Danger”
• Three successive whistles: “Abort”, “no”, or “go back” depending on context.

The whistling functions as an almost second language for Salamasians, popular amongst children and integrated into greetings between friends and loved ones. Families have incorporated unique meanings to both shorter and longer whistles, each of which may vary based on region.

Religion

The oldest religion of the Salamasians hails to a polytheistic faith revolving around ancestors and a pantheon of gods until the arrival of Christian missionaries in the 19th century. Christianity dogma integrated flawlessly into the fa’a samoa, experiencing an uncontested dominion of religion among their people. Salamasians, in their isolation, have continued to uphold Christianity with a growing emphasis on ancestral worship as part of their trials on Nu’u. The demographics of faith are categorized as 80% are Christians with the largest minority practicing Trinarism at 10%, 8.6% polytheism, 1% other, and .4% atheist.

Christian holidays are observed as government holidays, with villages possessing, at minimum, one church. Salamasians primarily subscribe to their local Christian Congregational Church of Nu’u, with a number of minority denominations inclusive of Catholicism, Methodism, and a small Mormon presence. The republic itself professes freedom of religion, yet is decisively built upon Christian values woven into the fabric of Salamasian culture.

An increasing number of Salamasians in especially rural communities have embraced a modern interpretation of ancient deities their forefathers once worshipped, finding spiritual freedom in the open, albeit smaller seas of Nu’u. A minority have abandoned modern life in favor of remote living, relying on sustenance farming and fishing on the limited islands across the planet.

Cuisine

Nu’u dietary customs hail from their origin on Earth, having initially subsisted on a combination of cultural dishes and heavily processed meals with the availability of annual supplies during the earliest years beneath Hephaestus control. Little had deviated from their established diets back home, leaving only a novel exploration of native flora and fauna to scientists cataloging species. For many, long days limited the desire to cook, preferring the corporate regiment of refined sugars, snacks, and instant meals. A reliance on Hephaestus products created wariness in any delays of shuttles, having occurred in enough frequency to impose strategic rationing during suspected droughts to minimize panic.

As the shuttles ceased leading into the corporation’s abandonment of the planet, the colonies transitioned to agriculture in the fertile northern lands in the pursuit of offsetting inevitable supply shocks. Tenacity, much like their wayfinding ancestors, lead them to scavenge and best live off the land in increasingly trying conditions. Periods of strife were remembered best in remarkable food instability, with years of attempting to conquer an alien world’s agricultural conditions for successful harvests. More than a century of isolation meant that Salamasian diets returned to locally sourced ingredients, substituting Earth ingredients wherever possible. Households diligently worked to maintain the integrity of cultural recipes - both for the sake of comfort in times of uncertainty and the time-honored mission to continue tradition when all else continued to shift around them.

Salamasian dishes are rich and hearty, synonymous with the calories needed to sustain a challenging lifestyle in a new world. Major protein sources are drawn from the rivers and oceans, accompanied by local fauna in both the north and south hemispheres. The adaptive [[Mumu Talo] is a popular source of starchy carbs, while the flesh of Laau Maa, “Stone Tree” seeds are frequently incorporated into dishes for its fattiness and overall versatility. For the vast majority accustomed to local ingredients, domestic fishing and agriculture sustain the majority of culinary navigation. As trade resumed with the Coalition in later years, imported goods would once again enter Salamasian diets. Popular varieties of junk food include canned meats, noodles, and sweets that cannot be found locally.

Salamasian Recipes

The Umu

The traditional umu, or earth oven, makes use of the land itself for roasting, baking, and steaming. It is assembled above-ground by placing stones in a prepared fire, heating them until bundled food can be placed on top then covered with large leaves. The [Mumu Talo’s] leaves are most commonly used, with alternatives of aluminum foil or the shell of a Laau Maa seed pod. Meals from the umu are shared on Sundays, which are considered a day of rest for the majority of Salamasians.

Salamasian Palusami

Palusami is a derivative of the named dish originating from Earth. Mumu Talo leaves are stuffed with a creamy mix made from Laau Maa root milk, beef or canned beef, onions, and assorted spices. Palusami is often cooked in the Umu or in modern appliances, producing a sweet and savory meal noted for its richness.

Oka

Raw fish that is marinated in laau maa cream, green onions, and lime or Toto Apu juice. The fish is first prepared in a lime/toto apu juice mix, allowing it to denature the proteins before washing off the mix and tossing it in the laau maa cream blend. Carefully prepared Gata Tui, if done correctly, is also used when its flesh is properly cleaned of the venom glands and is considered a delicacy.

Keke pua’a

A Salamasian take on Konyanger steamed buns. The buns are filled with minced protein (most commonly beef, pork, or fish), garlic, Konyanger seaweed, and citrus soy sauce. The buns are exceptionally fluffy from the talo flour used, carrying a dull red color. It is a popular dish in Saitele, with regional variations found across republic territory.

Tiota Popo

A sweet roll prepared with Fua Tioata. The rolls are soaked with a sweet tioata sauce then baked until golden. A tioata glaze is applied out of the oven after, giving the dish its iconic pale teal hue. The seeds of the fruit are ground down to a fine powder, sprinkled on top to offer a unique, sparkling aesthetic.

Falaoa Maa

Laau Maa bread. The dough consists of Laau Maa root milk, sugar, and tioata flakes. As with much of Salamasian cuisine, the bread is rich and heavy with a dense texture, doubling as a shelf stable product and comfort snack. Households also prepare Falaoa Maa with mumu talo flour to make the bread fluffier and lighter, offering a different texture.

Population and Major Locations

Ti’nema

Ti’nema has suffered a long and tragic history. Once the operational center to house the colonial administration in 2270, the eventual city endured years of increasing oppression until the war for independence in 2346, where the harrowing bioweapon “Last Breath” (Manava Mulimuli) was unleashed upon Ti’nema. It would go on to be abandoned for nearly a century despite resettlement attempts, forgotten in living memory. Its resurrection was made possible by the Trinary in 2442.

Today, Ti’nema serves as the capital of the Salamasian Republic, a relic of the past reborn. Its central location relative to other cities, including river access, has made the city a major distribution hub for the transportation of goods to and from more specialized regions.

Government District - Republic

In a twist of fate, it was the very abandonment by Hephaestus that enabled rediscovery of the long abandoned Ti’nema when Gregol Corkfell set out with colonial mapping a century old.

The government district is built on the bones of the initial colonial center Tetras, whose original architecture peeks through the confederate-era developments, further built upon by the 25th century construction to suit the needs of a modern nation. While damages from the independence war were present post-abandonment, the majority of infrastructure survived, leaving any exceptional damage rebuilt from the ground up. Here resides the offices of government officials, including the official residence for the heads of state. A sprawl of new buildings house financial institutions as well as local corporations across the country. A Trinarist embassy is located on the same street as the capitol building, with semi-frequent visits between the prime minister and Ecclesiarch.

River District - Commercial

The majority of distribution centers concentrate along the bank of the nearby river, serving as a premiere hub for shipping logistics to and from Ti’nema. Countless barges, ferries, and boats pour across carrying crops, refined ore, and raw materials to cities downstream. A cluster of mercantile brokers, contract registrars, and trading houses dominate the exterior of the district, handling the operational workflow.

Banks maintain a steady presence as the commercial hub doubles for exchanges between the Salamasian Sana and the Trinary Vitro, maintaining the economic duality that crosses jurisdictional lines.

Historical District - Old Town

What survived both war and bioweapon alike was ordered to be preserved by Prime Minister Leasu Faatasi as historical property, unanimously approved by the Salamasian Fono. Old Town is one of few living demonstrations of 24th century architecture, with any renovations subject to strict guidelines and only by authorized preservation specialists. Skeletons of corporate infrastructure peak out against Salamasian design, with a concentration of Nu’u’s oldest family lineages present. The district contains a great deal of cultural importance through its museums, memorials, and public amenities, standing as the perseverance of a people who survived tyranny. The largest demographic of residents reside here from the aforementioned aiga, with influx of immigration across the country concentrated in new developments in the outskirts.

Old Town carries a major congregation from the church present, where the pastor - exclusively chosen from the originating families in Ti’nema - holds significant sway in public perception and community presence.

Mafuna

Mafuna is one of the oldest settlements in Nu’u, founded in 2272 during the early colonial period. It was settled near several prospective mining sites, revolving its industry entirely around excavation, extraction, and processing of raw minerals. It would go on to play a critical role in the uprising against the colonial administration, waging the first decisive battle in the aftermath of the Maulalo Standoff in 2334. Were it not for the tenacity of their workers, historians suspect the independence war would have been a far longer, bloodier affair. While Mafuna has both produced exceptional leaders and significant achievements, its pride led to the trade wars of the 2350s, eager to retain its dominance as a major producer of exports that would fund the Confederation of Nu’u Fou.

Its overall importance ensured it became a desirable neutral gathering for the city-states, with the first summit in 2362 taking place on Mafuna grounds. The industrial superiority of the city continued to perpetuate its pride amongst citizens, creating an underlying animosity amongst other city-states. The confederation’s reliance on Mafuna for export and domestic production inevitably became a target for Hephaestus in its return, with sabotage repeatedly damaging its critical infrastructure, weakening its position significantly.

Today, Mafuna remains in recovery with the major blow to its trade, attempting to return to its place as a dominating force within the republic. Ti’nema has since pivoted as the appropriate hub for official gatherings, further eroding its soft power across the planet.

Saitele

Saitele was established as a sister location to Mafuna in 2272, generating an industry reliant on industrial and raw resource production. While Mafuna shined throughout the course of its history, Saitele suffered in its shadow. The city was a major source of Hephaestus’ initial abandonment, often falling short of quotas and anticipated performance markers. Some credit this to the more barren reservoirs for minerals, while others attribute it to the lack of discipline from its workers. Its struggles continued well into the confederacy, unable to negotiate stronger positions or achieve the benefits of its counterpart.

Saitele’s luck would inevitably change, however, in securing the trade pact of 2384 with Konyang. While it did not hamper the dominance of Mafuna’s industry, it enabled the city to be a major hub for early Coalition trade, allowing it to compete with imported goods from an alternative vantage point. Saitele later financed the settlement of Saupouli in 2389, funneling settlers, goods, and monetary investment to establish an allegiance in the south.

Today, the city houses a notable Konyanger minority within its population, owed to the familiarity with the former Solarian colony, seeing a notable influx in the aftermath of the Rampancy Crisis. It is known to be a significant voice in the republic, filling the void left by Mafuna, both cities retaining a significant rivalry over the years.

Laitoga

The needs for feeding a hungry planet were met with the settlement of Laitoga in 2272, the last of the initial trio to first be raised when colonists arrived. Its fertile grounds enabled a widespread agricultural specialization made possible by the colony’s xenobotanical division, requiring novel farming techniques designed to domesticate the native wild flora and fauna. The city doubled as a major logistical hub by virtue of the necessity to transport food, eventually transitioning to maintain shipping, supply, and trade routes throughout. Though it did not possess the economic might of the others, its anchor as support to every iteration of government meant Laitoga would be provided incentives to favor one city over the other.

Today, the consolidation of farmland within a handful of generational families leaves a ceiling for social mobility for Salamasians seeking better opportunities. The majority of work revolves around its predominantly blue collar industries, creating an inevitable brain drain as youth migrate across the republic or abroad. As technology and quality of living continues to improve, more and more workers face a shrinking pool of available work.

Hauata

Hauata’s inception came about from the successful expeditions made possible during one of few periods without strife in the Confederation’s history. Established in 2389, the initial settlement charter divided territorial claims to two major families, who each dedicated expeditioners to the wilderness in prior years. The Asau and Enesi would go on to settle the prospective site, establishing the early Hauata. For the establishing generations, no matter of dispute arose as they built the city hand in hand, sharing an amicable relationship. A collaboration that, ultimately, did not survive their grandchildren, who saw opportunity in each other’s lands. Careful review of the city charter revealed an unfortunate truth - the confederation’s drawn and written territorial divide was vague, no less its written directives that enabled room for argument. So was the dispute born sometime in late 2437 that ultimately segregated Hauata in all but name between East and West Hauata.

The Confederation’s distance to the southern region and the weakness of their government system meant the feud could not be resolved by government arbitrators, leaving a perpetual gridlock that ensued for the following years. Through each passing of hands, the Matai of the Asau and Enesi redrew district lines and carved away at each family’s territory, presenting a burden that consistently divided Hauatans, with many forced to align with either major faction to find stability. Neither family could muster the political leverage needed to establish a permanent advantage over the other, leaving a cyclical battle that persists to today.

With the republic’s rise in 2464, the southern republic faced an inevitable obstacle as the only neutral party capable of bringing the generational conflict to an end. Though no major legislation has been passed in the prior four years, it is only a matter of time as the passing of Matai title arrives that the next battle commences.

East Hauata

The majority of East Hauata’s districts belong to the Asau family, with noted support from branch families Lemalu and Fuima from strategic marriages. Much of the East is where the city’s wealth is concentrated, with a variety of businesses taking advantage of beneficial infrastructure and prized institutions in its region. Despite their influence, familial tensions have emerged internally as the Asau’s successive Matai failed to defend their holdings, losing both funds and land to West Hauata. The branch families continue to curry favor in their uneasy alliance, knowing any transition of power too abrupt threatens to topple their holdings and concede far too much to the West.

West Hauata

West Hauata’s districts were owed to the Enesi family, with earlier years on the backfoot to the Asau’s calculated and often overwhelming influence. Much of the city’s history was spent defending their lands, resulting in a coalition of both less influential and smaller families pooling their resources to unite against the East’s encroachment. While less developed and poorer on average, the West shares a sharp leadership by the Enesi Matai, having managed to continue garnering support from those both unaffiliated with the feud and disenfranchised Salamasians eager to contribute for better fortune.

Saupouli

Early expeditioners throughout the late 2390s faced the challenges in logistics to operate a future southern region with the mountain ranges that separated them from the heart of the Confederation. As one of the only fully ratified agreements across all city-states, Saupouli would become the primary hub for aircraft to secure a convenient method of reliable transportation. The Confederation’s engineers and industrial experts set to work building a city in 2341 that could house the anticipated air traffic while doubling as a regional capital to the south. Airports, hangars, and airstrips soon decorated the outskirts with the majority of its population centralized in the heart of the city. The Salamasian Air Force is headquartered in Saupouli, with a distant base nestled near the mountains.

Saupouli's distance from the heart of the Salamasian Republic has cultivated an autonomous outlook for residents despite the reliance on air traffic to deliver supplies across the mountain ranges. Saupoulians thrive in both service and engineering services, encompassing the majority of available markets within the city.

As one of the targeted cities during Hephaestus’ occupation, its infrastructure was crippled by substantial damage, cutting off immediate access to the southern region. Four years later in 2468, repairs yet remain underway to fully revitalize the center of the south hemisphere, relying on limited support from Hauata and the Republic at large.

Viletu

Unlike the trio first built in 2272, Viletu would be established years later as a proxy base for the colonial government, with its greatest concentration of Hephaestus employees beside Ti’nema during its time as the seat of power for the administration. The city ultimately sided with Governor Anders and his forces during the restless strife leading to the independence war, funneling manpower and resources to support the governor until his demise in 2362. The war had been lost, and with it, an influx of corporate remnants that soon occupied Viletu as their final stand. Their last battle would never come as the now independent city-states turned inward to their confederation, leaving the loathsome city to its own devices.

Generations of indoctrination would follow, breeding resentment against the usurping rebels as countless continued to assign blame to the confederacy for their squalor and their theft of lands promised to them. The majority of the confederate era was embroiled in a cold war, with neither Viletu nor the confederation advancing to threaten the other, a costly and ultimately pointless endeavor.

The governing body of Viletu remained staunchly moderate doves who sought to rebuild their crumbling, dated infrastructure that relied on the bones of Hephaestus construction, managing to eke a mildly successful restoration during the decades of silence. Attempts of diplomacy fell short of gaining any momentum, leaving a steely, distantly hostile relationship between the feuding parties. Their increasing turmoil over decades, deprived of trade and industry, inevitably gave birth to radical elements with popular support. A rhetoric too powerful to ignore, propaganda that instilled the intended conclusion - they would take action, or they would fade.

The Embers of Anders’ rise to power is synonymous with the raids of 2454, weaponized violence of desperation and ideological actualization, hand in hand. Campaigns of sabotage, subterfuge, and bold attacks capitalized on the confederation’s inability to muster swift response, managing to sustain themselves with what appeared to be narrow victories. Their radical fervor intensified when an opportunistic Hephaestus took note of their resolve in 2463, lending to Viletuans acquiring a patron to facilitate their swell in equipment, supplies, and manpower to wage large scale warfare against the rebel descendants.

Despite the falsehoods promised by megacorporate machinations, Viletu would not reclaim the lands purportedly stolen nor its wealth, ultimately abandoned by Hephaestus at the time of its exit from Nu’u in 2464. The last source of fuel exhausted, the Embers would fade as any still yet loyal members scattered to the wilderness of Nu’u, leaving the now helpless Viletuans removed from radicalist elements. With the Salamasian Republic and Ecclesiarchy’s rise, the fate of Viletu remains uncertain.

Avasui

Founded in 2340, the fishing town of Avasui represented a return to roots for Salamasians seeking a life away from the heart of the land-locked cities. Its position along the coast enabled the construction of shipyards and fisheries, taking advantage of oceanic resources to be traded and sold to the original colonies while receiving the raw materials to sustain their production. In 2412, inventor Siaki Tama’ilima created the Solar Sail as a means of affordable maritime travel, capitalizing on the available materials of Nu’u.

Today, Avasui maintains a bustling industry for fishermen, sailors, and those who yearn for the seas. The Salamasian Navy’s headquarters is stationed in the heart of downtown, claiming a sizable base besides the various ports lining the coasts. WIth a notable presence of industrial and engineering needs, laborers enjoy steady employment and opportunities for specialized work. Those seeking a military career find success in the naval academy, with military personnel a frequent sight.

La Folau - 'Sun Sail'

The sail’s material is derived from compressed piezoelectric crystals excavated from Nu’u’s caverns, enabling a simultaneous propulsion from the winds while capturing photonic charge to power electrical motors. While a promising invention, the inefficient power generation required limited voyages and a reliance on frequent resupplies. The design has since been improved, better adapted to harnessing the orange star’s energy to prolong journeys, seeing commercial use.

Pefolo

As the needs of Avasui grew, a secondary coastal city emerged in 2342. Pefolo attracted many in similar pursuit of an island-esque lifestyle, albeit diverging in trade as a growing source for tourism both domestic and foreign. Vacationers stay in the countless hotels lining the coast, with a fleet of ships carrying passengers on tours for scuba diving, snorkeling, and fishing across the various reefs near the city. Family owned companies capture the majority of the tourism market, with a recently incorporated cruise ship business investing in its harbors to begin offering cruise voyages across Nu’u’s seas. Patrons are exposed to an idealized, carefully cultivated image of Nu’u that shrouds the Republic’s long, bloodied history.