You are an ordinary mecha pilot, embroiled in a fight between two Imperial factions over the fate of the Jupiter System. Space is deadly, war is harsh, your allies are all that you have.
Petals of Carbon Steel -- You're a Pilot, Not an Ace. Try your best.
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Introduction
- Location
- Nova Scotia
- Pronouns
- She/Her
Hello! Welcome to Petals of Carbon Steel, a narrative quest where you're a common mecha pilot in an original setting, who tries their best.
Good luck with that.
QM's Note
Petals of Carbon Steel is the sequel to Petals of Titanium, in which Ensign Amani North, junior bridge officer with what remained of the United Solar Empire Navy, attempted to weather the second round of a brutal civil war that had already shattered her family and driven her loyalist faction to the far ends of inhabited space. The odds seemed stacked against her. Hope was something to be found in the quiet moments between the bursts of intense terror and the bonds that could be forged there.
If you're new, this might be a good jumping on point, even without having read the previous quest. While Carbon Steel does deal extensively with the aftermath of Titanium and will feature multiple returning characters, it features a new protagonist, is set in a different planetary system, and has a different focal point. I will be doing my best to make the story read coherently even if you've never touched the older material, although I will of course always appreciate people giving my older writing some fresh attention as well. Click on the logo below for a quick link to the old topic!
For returning readers, welcome back, I'm so glad that you're still with me after all this time. I know there have been some misgivings about the decision to switch to a new protagonist, but I feel pretty strongly that a fresh perspective on this setting will yield interesting and worthwhile results. I hope that we all come to care for the new protagonist we'll be creating together just as much as we did for Amani by the end of things. Aside from the obvious change in setting, this time around things are a little different: Instead of a bridge officer, endangered by combat but at a seemingly safe remove, you are a mecha pilot, thrust directly into all the furies of war. Some of the consequences and risks involved in battle scenes will therefore be different as well.
What will remain the same is human-centred mecha drama, a focus on characters and interpersonal relationships, and hard choices that have consequences far beyond the protagonist's immediate personal well-being. This is still Petals, and it is my sincere wish that you all come to feel the same in the coming months.
Petals Patreon and update schedule
A major new development is that I have a Patreon for Petals, and theoretically other original fiction I might do from this point on. Any fanworks that I write on the side are obviously not covered in the purview of this Patreon, nor will it be promoted or linked with any of them — that just makes things legally murky.
This is, obviously, an entirely optional thing that should hopefully not negatively impact anyone's experience with this quest. Petals takes quite a bit of time and effort to write, and frankly I am in a financial position where any little bit helps. I had some pretty strong misgivings about monetising my writing in this way, but we'll try it. I will obviously be extremely grateful to anyone who contributes in that way, but I will likewise always be grateful to anyone who reads and engages with my work. It remains one of the largest joys in my life, and all of the important content associated with Carbon Steel will remain free for everyone.
As a consequence of this, I will be trying my best to put out quality content on a regular basis. There will be a Petals of Carbon Steel update twice a month normally, and at least once a month barring strange circumstances or prior notice. In the event of having been unable to meet this commitment for a given month, I will of course disable Patreon billing until updates resume. Editing is something I've been trying hard to improve on, although I am just one woman with some friends who help proofread sometimes.
Petals of Discord server
I have started a Discord server as a place to talk about my quests and hopefully get to know some of my readers a little bit better. It's very new, and it's something I'll try my best to improve if there ends up being interest in it, but please have a look if that's something that appeals to you at all.
https://discord.gg/W8rJFBQ
My other original quests, to date:
Status: complete, 220k words
Tribulations of an Apprentice Witch
Status: incomplete, abandoned, 49k words
Good luck with that.
QM's Note
Petals of Carbon Steel is the sequel to Petals of Titanium, in which Ensign Amani North, junior bridge officer with what remained of the United Solar Empire Navy, attempted to weather the second round of a brutal civil war that had already shattered her family and driven her loyalist faction to the far ends of inhabited space. The odds seemed stacked against her. Hope was something to be found in the quiet moments between the bursts of intense terror and the bonds that could be forged there.
If you're new, this might be a good jumping on point, even without having read the previous quest. While Carbon Steel does deal extensively with the aftermath of Titanium and will feature multiple returning characters, it features a new protagonist, is set in a different planetary system, and has a different focal point. I will be doing my best to make the story read coherently even if you've never touched the older material, although I will of course always appreciate people giving my older writing some fresh attention as well. Click on the logo below for a quick link to the old topic!
For returning readers, welcome back, I'm so glad that you're still with me after all this time. I know there have been some misgivings about the decision to switch to a new protagonist, but I feel pretty strongly that a fresh perspective on this setting will yield interesting and worthwhile results. I hope that we all come to care for the new protagonist we'll be creating together just as much as we did for Amani by the end of things. Aside from the obvious change in setting, this time around things are a little different: Instead of a bridge officer, endangered by combat but at a seemingly safe remove, you are a mecha pilot, thrust directly into all the furies of war. Some of the consequences and risks involved in battle scenes will therefore be different as well.
What will remain the same is human-centred mecha drama, a focus on characters and interpersonal relationships, and hard choices that have consequences far beyond the protagonist's immediate personal well-being. This is still Petals, and it is my sincere wish that you all come to feel the same in the coming months.
Petals Patreon and update schedule
A major new development is that I have a Patreon for Petals, and theoretically other original fiction I might do from this point on. Any fanworks that I write on the side are obviously not covered in the purview of this Patreon, nor will it be promoted or linked with any of them — that just makes things legally murky.
This is, obviously, an entirely optional thing that should hopefully not negatively impact anyone's experience with this quest. Petals takes quite a bit of time and effort to write, and frankly I am in a financial position where any little bit helps. I had some pretty strong misgivings about monetising my writing in this way, but we'll try it. I will obviously be extremely grateful to anyone who contributes in that way, but I will likewise always be grateful to anyone who reads and engages with my work. It remains one of the largest joys in my life, and all of the important content associated with Carbon Steel will remain free for everyone.
As a consequence of this, I will be trying my best to put out quality content on a regular basis. There will be a Petals of Carbon Steel update twice a month normally, and at least once a month barring strange circumstances or prior notice. In the event of having been unable to meet this commitment for a given month, I will of course disable Patreon billing until updates resume. Editing is something I've been trying hard to improve on, although I am just one woman with some friends who help proofread sometimes.
Petals of Discord server
I have started a Discord server as a place to talk about my quests and hopefully get to know some of my readers a little bit better. It's very new, and it's something I'll try my best to improve if there ends up being interest in it, but please have a look if that's something that appeals to you at all.
https://discord.gg/W8rJFBQ
My other original quests, to date:
Status: complete, 220k words
Tribulations of an Apprentice Witch
Status: incomplete, abandoned, 49k words
Last edited:
List of Characters
- Location
- Nova Scotia
- Pronouns
- She/Her
Current as of update 024. May contain spoilers.
The Alliance for a Free Jupiter
The crew of the AIJ Esther Strova
Himegami Kana: A pilot for the AIJ serving on the. A former pirate, originally from Ganymede. Has a nosy, oily air that makes people think she's up to something. The protagonist.
Black, Azara: A pilot for the AIJ, Kana's and Kitty's squadmate, and Kitty's lover. Originally from a backwater station, where she joined the local militia. Talkative and utterly without shame.
Booker, Sara: First officer of the Esther Strova. Very no-nonense. Dislikes Kana.
Goodwell, Dr. Manjinder: Medical officer of the Esther Strova.
Leski, Jacek: Captain of the Esther Strova. Boisterous and energetic.
Lý Thị Cam: A pilot for the AIJ, Jay and Ryan's squadmate. Originally from a family of salvage operators, has a fascination with machines and military hardware and a talent for mechanics. Quiet and earnest, easily flustered.
Monserrato, Sunny: A pilot for the AIJ, Kana and Azara's former squad leader. A deserter from the Divine Navy, diligent and straight-laced. Was killed by Divine Navy Ensign Tanaka Mari.
Ohanian, Nazaret: Communications and mecha control officer for the AIJ. Kana's friend. Easygoing and friendly.
Ross, Ryan: A pilot for the AIJ, Jay's and Cam's squad leader. Self-serious, but a huge nerd. Has a young daughter.
Sails, Jennifer: A pilot for the AIJ, former commander of the Esther Strova's mecha contingent, and squad leader to Kitty and Jay. A calm and respected commander. Was killed by Divine Navy Ensign Tanaka Mari.
Schmidt, Josef: Scans officer.
Shen Zhìháo: A pilot for the AIJ, former squad leader to Cam and Ryan, former mentor to Kitty. A stern and weathered veteran. Was killed by Divine Navy Ensign Tanaka Mari.
Tham, Jay: aka "J21". A pilot for the AIJ, Kana's lover, and a surviving J-Subject. Stoic and patient, with a temper that occasionally flares. Loves his surrogate siblings.
Wehrschmidt, Kitty: A pilot for the AIJ, Kana and Azara's squad leader. Grew up in the Jovian independence movement, serious and self-assured.
Yorke, August: The chief mechanic for the Esther Strova. Talented, but high-strung. Hates Kana.
The United Solar Empire
The North Family
Bal-North, Faiza: Born Faiza Bal, adoptive daughter to Nalah, adoptive sister to Mosi and Amani. A girl in her young teens and a mechanical prodigy, currently in the Imperial Academy on Titan.
North, Amani: An SRI lieutenant. Daughter to Nalah, sister to Mosi and Faiza, fiancée to Gloriana. An expert with scans systems as well as various forms of code. Unflappably cool and professional. The protagonist of Petals of Titanium.
North, Amir: Late husband to Nalah, father of Mosi and Amani. An accountant killed on Mars by the HSE as part of the Utopia Purges for his refusal to disavow his wife.
North, Mosi: A guard-lieutenant and mecha pilot in the Imperial Guard. Daughter to Nalah, sister to Amani and Faiza. A deserter from the Divine Navy, serving in exchange for a pardon.
North, Dame Nalah: A captain and mecha pilot in the Imperial Navy, wife to Amir, mother to Mosi, Amani, and Faiza. A famous war hero for her part in the Imperial Civil War. Was injured badly during the Saturn Invasion.
Perbeck, Countess Gloriana: A captain and mecha pilot in the Imperial Navy, fiancée to Amani. Bears the title of Countess Perbeck, although her family lands are still on Mars, in HSE hands, currently ruled by her cousin. A coldly serious woman, but an intense warrior.
Special Reconnaissance & Intelligence
Frost: An SRI technician reporting to Amani north. Was killed by pirates.
Jens: An SRI technician reporting to Amani North. Was killed by pirates.
Mendez, Amelia: An SRI commander and captain of the HIMS Creeping Ivy.
North, Amani: See above entry.
Owusu, Milo: An SRI commander and mecha pilot. Special liaison to the AIJ.
The Imperial Guard (USE)
Helios, Princess Daystar: Lady-High-Commander of the Imperial Guard. Niece of the empress, her preferred heir for the USE's throne.
J6: Formerly personal bodyguard to Princess Daystar. Died during the events of Petals of Titanium.
Li, Anton: A guardsman second-class and scans officer aboard the HIMG Goldray. Native-born Saturnian. Brother of Anja Li.
North, Mosi: See above entry.
Song Ji-ho: Captain of the HIMG Goldray. A member of House Song, his aunt is the holder of an Imperial Elector seat.
Vasquez, Lucinda: A guard-lieutenant and first officer onboard the HIMG Goldray. Devious. A native-born Saturnian.
The Imperial Navy (USE)
Andre, Lilian: Former captain of the HIMS Titanium Rose, former commanding officer of Amani north. Died during the events of Petals of Titanium.
Li, Anja: A sub-lieutenant and communications officer onboard the HIMS Nightshade. Friend and former shipmate of Amani North.
North, Dame Nalah: See above entry.
Perbeck, Countess Gloriana: See above entry.
The Imperial Royal Family (USE)
Helios, Prince Corona: The empress's son, in disfavour. Daystar's political rival.i named this character back in 2018 leave me alone
Helios, Princess Daystar: See above entry.
Helios, Empress Solana I: Empress of the USE, defacto direct ruler of Saturn.
The Holy Solar Empire
House Grangier
Grangier, Arianne: The youngest daughter of House Grangier's main family. A disappointment and a party girl. Secretly, a spy for the Jovian independence movement. In a quasi-secret relationship with her bodyguard, Agnieszka.
Grangier, Duchess Lorelei: The HSE-appointed governor of Jupiter. A former Imperial Elector who betrayed the USE during the Civil War. Mother of the year.
Grangier, Duke-Consort Renaud: An admiral in the Divine Navy, formerly in command of the HSE's Jovian Garrison. Helped command the Saturn Invasion, the Battle of Titan, surrendered during the events of Petals of Titanium, remaining a prisoner of the USE.
Leszczyńska, Dame Agnieszka: aka J32. A Knight of the Order Lunar, Arianne's bodyguard, and a surviving J-subject. Dangerously unstable, loves Arianne and what family she has.
The Divine Navy of Correction
Adler, Alvin: A young man recruited into the crew of the HDMS Sunspot. Friend of Tanaka Mari.
Dvorska, Baroness-Consort Allison: Admiral in command of the Divine Navy's Jovian Garrison.
Grangier, Duke-Consort Renaud: See above entry.
Green, Elias: A commander and mecha pilot in the Divine Navy. Formerly Mosi North's commanding officer and mentor.
Kron, Edith: A commander in the Divine Navy and captain of the HDMS Sunspot.
Quan, Ava: A young woman recruited into the crew of the HDMS Sunspot. Friend of Tanaka Mari.
Reider, Baroness Tabitha: A commander in the Divine Navy, captain of the HDMS Iron Tulip.
Salmus, Sir Ethan: A commander and mecha pilot in the Divine Navy. The original test pilot for the QDIMX Carbon Steel.
Smith, Andrew: A lieutenant and mecha pilot in the Divine Navy. Former subordinate of Mosi North, current subordinate of Elias Green.
Stone: A commander in the Divine Navy and captain of the HDMS Copper Blossom. Was killed in combat with the Esther Strova and its allies. Colleague of Tabitha Reider.
Su Limin: A lieutenant and mecha pilot in the Divine Navy. Former HSE Imperial Academy classmate of Mosi North, participated in the abusive hazing she suffered.
Tanaka Mari: A cadet and pilot in the Divine Navy, a young civilian recruited into the crew of the HDMS Sunspot. Pilot of the QDIMX Carbon Steel.
Yildiz, Sevda: A young woman recruited into the crew of the HDMS Sunspot. Friend of Tanaka Mari.
The Imperial Royal Family (HSE)
Helios, Emperor Dawnlight III: Divine Emperor of the HSE.
Helios, Prince Apollo: Son of the Divine Emperor, heir apparent to the throne of the HSE.
Others:
The J-Project
J3: A promising subject, died relatively early in the project due to a freak neural-interface testing accident.
J6: See above entry.
J21: See Tham, Jay.
J32: See Leszczyńska, Dame Agnieszka.
Dr. Parker: The head researcher for the J-Project.
Pirates
Beryl, Naiya: A mecha pilot with Ohara's Wolves. Former Divine Navy. Survived the Saturn Invasion and the Battle of Iapetus.
Ohara, James: Commander of the Ohara's Wolves and mecha pilot. Former shipmate of Himegami Kana. Killed in combat by Milo Owusu.
The Alliance for a Free Jupiter
The crew of the AIJ Esther Strova
Himegami Kana: A pilot for the AIJ serving on the. A former pirate, originally from Ganymede. Has a nosy, oily air that makes people think she's up to something. The protagonist.
Black, Azara: A pilot for the AIJ, Kana's and Kitty's squadmate, and Kitty's lover. Originally from a backwater station, where she joined the local militia. Talkative and utterly without shame.
Booker, Sara: First officer of the Esther Strova. Very no-nonense. Dislikes Kana.
Goodwell, Dr. Manjinder: Medical officer of the Esther Strova.
Leski, Jacek: Captain of the Esther Strova. Boisterous and energetic.
Lý Thị Cam: A pilot for the AIJ, Jay and Ryan's squadmate. Originally from a family of salvage operators, has a fascination with machines and military hardware and a talent for mechanics. Quiet and earnest, easily flustered.
Monserrato, Sunny: A pilot for the AIJ, Kana and Azara's former squad leader. A deserter from the Divine Navy, diligent and straight-laced. Was killed by Divine Navy Ensign Tanaka Mari.
Ohanian, Nazaret: Communications and mecha control officer for the AIJ. Kana's friend. Easygoing and friendly.
Ross, Ryan: A pilot for the AIJ, Jay's and Cam's squad leader. Self-serious, but a huge nerd. Has a young daughter.
Sails, Jennifer: A pilot for the AIJ, former commander of the Esther Strova's mecha contingent, and squad leader to Kitty and Jay. A calm and respected commander. Was killed by Divine Navy Ensign Tanaka Mari.
Schmidt, Josef: Scans officer.
Shen Zhìháo: A pilot for the AIJ, former squad leader to Cam and Ryan, former mentor to Kitty. A stern and weathered veteran. Was killed by Divine Navy Ensign Tanaka Mari.
Tham, Jay: aka "J21". A pilot for the AIJ, Kana's lover, and a surviving J-Subject. Stoic and patient, with a temper that occasionally flares. Loves his surrogate siblings.
Wehrschmidt, Kitty: A pilot for the AIJ, Kana and Azara's squad leader. Grew up in the Jovian independence movement, serious and self-assured.
Yorke, August: The chief mechanic for the Esther Strova. Talented, but high-strung. Hates Kana.
The United Solar Empire
The North Family
Bal-North, Faiza: Born Faiza Bal, adoptive daughter to Nalah, adoptive sister to Mosi and Amani. A girl in her young teens and a mechanical prodigy, currently in the Imperial Academy on Titan.
North, Amani: An SRI lieutenant. Daughter to Nalah, sister to Mosi and Faiza, fiancée to Gloriana. An expert with scans systems as well as various forms of code. Unflappably cool and professional. The protagonist of Petals of Titanium.
North, Amir: Late husband to Nalah, father of Mosi and Amani. An accountant killed on Mars by the HSE as part of the Utopia Purges for his refusal to disavow his wife.
North, Mosi: A guard-lieutenant and mecha pilot in the Imperial Guard. Daughter to Nalah, sister to Amani and Faiza. A deserter from the Divine Navy, serving in exchange for a pardon.
North, Dame Nalah: A captain and mecha pilot in the Imperial Navy, wife to Amir, mother to Mosi, Amani, and Faiza. A famous war hero for her part in the Imperial Civil War. Was injured badly during the Saturn Invasion.
Perbeck, Countess Gloriana: A captain and mecha pilot in the Imperial Navy, fiancée to Amani. Bears the title of Countess Perbeck, although her family lands are still on Mars, in HSE hands, currently ruled by her cousin. A coldly serious woman, but an intense warrior.
Special Reconnaissance & Intelligence
Frost: An SRI technician reporting to Amani north. Was killed by pirates.
Jens: An SRI technician reporting to Amani North. Was killed by pirates.
Mendez, Amelia: An SRI commander and captain of the HIMS Creeping Ivy.
North, Amani: See above entry.
Owusu, Milo: An SRI commander and mecha pilot. Special liaison to the AIJ.
The Imperial Guard (USE)
Helios, Princess Daystar: Lady-High-Commander of the Imperial Guard. Niece of the empress, her preferred heir for the USE's throne.
J6: Formerly personal bodyguard to Princess Daystar. Died during the events of Petals of Titanium.
Li, Anton: A guardsman second-class and scans officer aboard the HIMG Goldray. Native-born Saturnian. Brother of Anja Li.
North, Mosi: See above entry.
Song Ji-ho: Captain of the HIMG Goldray. A member of House Song, his aunt is the holder of an Imperial Elector seat.
Vasquez, Lucinda: A guard-lieutenant and first officer onboard the HIMG Goldray. Devious. A native-born Saturnian.
The Imperial Navy (USE)
Andre, Lilian: Former captain of the HIMS Titanium Rose, former commanding officer of Amani north. Died during the events of Petals of Titanium.
Li, Anja: A sub-lieutenant and communications officer onboard the HIMS Nightshade. Friend and former shipmate of Amani North.
North, Dame Nalah: See above entry.
Perbeck, Countess Gloriana: See above entry.
The Imperial Royal Family (USE)
Helios, Prince Corona: The empress's son, in disfavour. Daystar's political rival.
Helios, Princess Daystar: See above entry.
Helios, Empress Solana I: Empress of the USE, defacto direct ruler of Saturn.
The Holy Solar Empire
House Grangier
Grangier, Arianne: The youngest daughter of House Grangier's main family. A disappointment and a party girl. Secretly, a spy for the Jovian independence movement. In a quasi-secret relationship with her bodyguard, Agnieszka.
Grangier, Duchess Lorelei: The HSE-appointed governor of Jupiter. A former Imperial Elector who betrayed the USE during the Civil War. Mother of the year.
Grangier, Duke-Consort Renaud: An admiral in the Divine Navy, formerly in command of the HSE's Jovian Garrison. Helped command the Saturn Invasion, the Battle of Titan, surrendered during the events of Petals of Titanium, remaining a prisoner of the USE.
Leszczyńska, Dame Agnieszka: aka J32. A Knight of the Order Lunar, Arianne's bodyguard, and a surviving J-subject. Dangerously unstable, loves Arianne and what family she has.
The Divine Navy of Correction
Adler, Alvin: A young man recruited into the crew of the HDMS Sunspot. Friend of Tanaka Mari.
Dvorska, Baroness-Consort Allison: Admiral in command of the Divine Navy's Jovian Garrison.
Grangier, Duke-Consort Renaud: See above entry.
Green, Elias: A commander and mecha pilot in the Divine Navy. Formerly Mosi North's commanding officer and mentor.
Kron, Edith: A commander in the Divine Navy and captain of the HDMS Sunspot.
Quan, Ava: A young woman recruited into the crew of the HDMS Sunspot. Friend of Tanaka Mari.
Reider, Baroness Tabitha: A commander in the Divine Navy, captain of the HDMS Iron Tulip.
Salmus, Sir Ethan: A commander and mecha pilot in the Divine Navy. The original test pilot for the QDIMX Carbon Steel.
Smith, Andrew: A lieutenant and mecha pilot in the Divine Navy. Former subordinate of Mosi North, current subordinate of Elias Green.
Stone: A commander in the Divine Navy and captain of the HDMS Copper Blossom. Was killed in combat with the Esther Strova and its allies. Colleague of Tabitha Reider.
Su Limin: A lieutenant and mecha pilot in the Divine Navy. Former HSE Imperial Academy classmate of Mosi North, participated in the abusive hazing she suffered.
Tanaka Mari: A cadet and pilot in the Divine Navy, a young civilian recruited into the crew of the HDMS Sunspot. Pilot of the QDIMX Carbon Steel.
Yildiz, Sevda: A young woman recruited into the crew of the HDMS Sunspot. Friend of Tanaka Mari.
The Imperial Royal Family (HSE)
Helios, Emperor Dawnlight III: Divine Emperor of the HSE.
Helios, Prince Apollo: Son of the Divine Emperor, heir apparent to the throne of the HSE.
Others:
The J-Project
J3: A promising subject, died relatively early in the project due to a freak neural-interface testing accident.
J6: See above entry.
J21: See Tham, Jay.
J32: See Leszczyńska, Dame Agnieszka.
Dr. Parker: The head researcher for the J-Project.
Pirates
Beryl, Naiya: A mecha pilot with Ohara's Wolves. Former Divine Navy. Survived the Saturn Invasion and the Battle of Iapetus.
Ohara, James: Commander of the Ohara's Wolves and mecha pilot. Former shipmate of Himegami Kana. Killed in combat by Milo Owusu.
Last edited:
List of Mecha
- Location
- Nova Scotia
- Pronouns
- She/Her
List of Mecha
Acronyms:
AIJ (Alliance for an Independent Jupiter): Used to designate machines developed or retooled specifically for use by the organisation of the same name
IGSM (Imperial Guard Space Mecha): Used to designate models developed specifically for use by the USE's Imperial Guard
ISM (Imperial Space Mecha): Used to designate most service mecha, still in active use by both the United Solar Empire and the Holy Solar Empire.
ISMX (Imperial Space Mecha, Experimental): Used to designate military prototypes, still in active use by both the United Solar Empire and the Holy Solar Empire.
AIJ-DI: An AIJ mecha outfitted with experimental direct interface technology, not usable by unmodified humans.
IDIMX (Imperial Direct Interface Mecha, Experimental): [REDACTED]
QDIMX (Quasi-Direct Interface Mecha, Experimental: [REDACTED]
CT (Cirntech): A line of civilian space and terrestrial models produced by Cirntech Heavy Industries
HS (Heineken Spacer): A line of civilian space models produced by Heineken Robotics.
Both the USE Navy and the HSE's Divine Navy of Correction are still using the ISM designations, each unwilling to cede the designation system to the other. For new units, both sides appear to be quietly avoiding using numbers claimed by the other, although this is not official policy.
United Solar Empire (pre-Civil War):
ISM07 Lancer: A mass production, general purpose mecha with a long service history, famous for its role in the Wars of Expansion two generations ago. Old and outmoded, but it was produced in such large numbers for so long that stockpiles of Lancers are still used by both the United Solar Empire and the Holy Solar Empire for rear guard and light duty. The AIJ has acquired a number of these in working condition. Notable pilots: Lý Thị Cam, Ryan Ross, Wen Zhìháo
ISM07fx Fenris Lancer: An improved prototype utilising the ISM07's basic frame, but with improved speed, armor and firepower. Intended as a replacement for the Lancer, it lost in competition to the more durable ISM32 Banner. Lethal in skilled hands, with a profile and readings deceptively close to the older model. Notable pilots: Dame Nalah North
ISM16 Huntress: Limited production long range fire support model, old but powerful, with very strong thrusters and a rail cannon that are scaled down ship models. Very difficult to handle, very difficult to maintain, highly effective in the hands of an expert. Notable pilots: Countess Gloriana Perbeck (former)
ISM32 Banner: A mass production, general purpose mecha, built to replace the ageing 07 Lancer. Heavier armoured than the Lancer, but with substantially advanced thrusters to compensate. Well armed and versatile. Notable pilots: Hiro Ito (custom unit, deceased)
ISM32b Banner Heavy Type: A variant on the 32 Banner equipped with anti-ship/station rocket armaments. Notable pilots: Tyrone Green
ISM32s Banner Recon Type: A variant on the 32 Banner that trades armour for advanced, long-range thrusters.
United Solar Empire (Saturn):
IGSM02 Halberdier: Based off of the old Lancer family — faster and more agile than the Navy's ubiquitous Banners
ISM32ex Empress Banner: A limited production variant of the ubiquitous 32 Banner, featuring superior handling and advanced sensor and communication suites. Notable pilots: Milo Owusu
IDIMX Morrigan: A unique, prototype unit using a cutting edge, direct neural interface immersion rig, requiring the pilot to control three drones simultaneously in addition to mecha itself. Hideously complicated for a normal pilot to use, even in ideal, non-combat scenarios. Notable pilots: J6 (deceased)
ISMX40 Artemis: A high-performance prototype marrying the Huntress's long range fire support capabilities with more versatile close and medium range options. Notable pilots: Countess Gloriana Perbeck
Holy Solar Empire:
ISM47 Vespula: A very fast, lightly armed scouting unit well suited for long range reconnaissance and skirmishing.
ISMX17 Provespa: One of the prototype models from the Next Generation Reconnaissance Mecha project that produced the 47 Vespula. It features experimental thrusters and inertial dampening technology to enable movement at astounding speed, advanced sensor arrays, and a novel melee weapon in the form of a retractable, five metre long "energised spike" capable of punching straight through most conventional armour. Notable pilots: Mosi North (former)
QDIMX Carbon Steel: An experimental prototype capable of allowing compatible pilots to directly interface with the mecha's systems without special modifications. This technology is both unstable and wholly unique. Notable pilots: Tanaka Mari, Sir Henry Salimus
Alliance for an Independent Jupiter:
AIJ Pennant: A stripped-down retooling of the famous ISM32 Banner, from parts that "fell out of a transport". It's not as well defended as a standard Banner, but it's a little faster, and easily configurable for different combat roles. Notable pilots: Himegami Kana, Azara Black, Sunny Monserrato, Jennifer Sails, Kitty Wehrschmidt
AIJ-DI Hecate: A strange amalgam of stolen, cutting-edge technology and whatever compatible parts the AIJ could scavenge or find. Extremely high combat performance for a cybernetically-modified pilot, but its maintenance and upkeep are a constant strain. Notable pilots: Jay Tham (J21)
Civilian:
HS Workman: An unarmed, unarmoured space mecha designed for lifting and moving, repair and salvage work. Ubiquitous in the Saturn System, common elsewhere.
HS Workman "Colonial Special": An illegal modification of the HS Workman, converting its close range laser cutter tool into a weapon capable of breaching armour. Very light, not particularly fast, and has poor range, but better than nothing.
CT Builder MKIII: A bulky construction unit developed by Cirntech. Noted for its modular design. Notable pilots: Mosi North (former)
CT Builder MKIV: A bulky construction unit. Sacrifices modability for improved performance time.
Acronyms:
AIJ (Alliance for an Independent Jupiter): Used to designate machines developed or retooled specifically for use by the organisation of the same name
IGSM (Imperial Guard Space Mecha): Used to designate models developed specifically for use by the USE's Imperial Guard
ISM (Imperial Space Mecha): Used to designate most service mecha, still in active use by both the United Solar Empire and the Holy Solar Empire.
ISMX (Imperial Space Mecha, Experimental): Used to designate military prototypes, still in active use by both the United Solar Empire and the Holy Solar Empire.
AIJ-DI: An AIJ mecha outfitted with experimental direct interface technology, not usable by unmodified humans.
IDIMX (Imperial Direct Interface Mecha, Experimental): [REDACTED]
QDIMX (Quasi-Direct Interface Mecha, Experimental: [REDACTED]
CT (Cirntech): A line of civilian space and terrestrial models produced by Cirntech Heavy Industries
HS (Heineken Spacer): A line of civilian space models produced by Heineken Robotics.
Both the USE Navy and the HSE's Divine Navy of Correction are still using the ISM designations, each unwilling to cede the designation system to the other. For new units, both sides appear to be quietly avoiding using numbers claimed by the other, although this is not official policy.
United Solar Empire (pre-Civil War):
ISM07 Lancer: A mass production, general purpose mecha with a long service history, famous for its role in the Wars of Expansion two generations ago. Old and outmoded, but it was produced in such large numbers for so long that stockpiles of Lancers are still used by both the United Solar Empire and the Holy Solar Empire for rear guard and light duty. The AIJ has acquired a number of these in working condition. Notable pilots: Lý Thị Cam, Ryan Ross, Wen Zhìháo
ISM07fx Fenris Lancer: An improved prototype utilising the ISM07's basic frame, but with improved speed, armor and firepower. Intended as a replacement for the Lancer, it lost in competition to the more durable ISM32 Banner. Lethal in skilled hands, with a profile and readings deceptively close to the older model. Notable pilots: Dame Nalah North
ISM16 Huntress: Limited production long range fire support model, old but powerful, with very strong thrusters and a rail cannon that are scaled down ship models. Very difficult to handle, very difficult to maintain, highly effective in the hands of an expert. Notable pilots: Countess Gloriana Perbeck (former)
ISM32 Banner: A mass production, general purpose mecha, built to replace the ageing 07 Lancer. Heavier armoured than the Lancer, but with substantially advanced thrusters to compensate. Well armed and versatile. Notable pilots: Hiro Ito (custom unit, deceased)
ISM32b Banner Heavy Type: A variant on the 32 Banner equipped with anti-ship/station rocket armaments. Notable pilots: Tyrone Green
ISM32s Banner Recon Type: A variant on the 32 Banner that trades armour for advanced, long-range thrusters.
United Solar Empire (Saturn):
IGSM02 Halberdier: Based off of the old Lancer family — faster and more agile than the Navy's ubiquitous Banners
ISM32ex Empress Banner: A limited production variant of the ubiquitous 32 Banner, featuring superior handling and advanced sensor and communication suites. Notable pilots: Milo Owusu
IDIMX Morrigan: A unique, prototype unit using a cutting edge, direct neural interface immersion rig, requiring the pilot to control three drones simultaneously in addition to mecha itself. Hideously complicated for a normal pilot to use, even in ideal, non-combat scenarios. Notable pilots: J6 (deceased)
ISMX40 Artemis: A high-performance prototype marrying the Huntress's long range fire support capabilities with more versatile close and medium range options. Notable pilots: Countess Gloriana Perbeck
Holy Solar Empire:
ISM47 Vespula: A very fast, lightly armed scouting unit well suited for long range reconnaissance and skirmishing.
ISMX17 Provespa: One of the prototype models from the Next Generation Reconnaissance Mecha project that produced the 47 Vespula. It features experimental thrusters and inertial dampening technology to enable movement at astounding speed, advanced sensor arrays, and a novel melee weapon in the form of a retractable, five metre long "energised spike" capable of punching straight through most conventional armour. Notable pilots: Mosi North (former)
QDIMX Carbon Steel: An experimental prototype capable of allowing compatible pilots to directly interface with the mecha's systems without special modifications. This technology is both unstable and wholly unique. Notable pilots: Tanaka Mari, Sir Henry Salimus
Alliance for an Independent Jupiter:
AIJ Pennant: A stripped-down retooling of the famous ISM32 Banner, from parts that "fell out of a transport". It's not as well defended as a standard Banner, but it's a little faster, and easily configurable for different combat roles. Notable pilots: Himegami Kana, Azara Black, Sunny Monserrato, Jennifer Sails, Kitty Wehrschmidt
AIJ-DI Hecate: A strange amalgam of stolen, cutting-edge technology and whatever compatible parts the AIJ could scavenge or find. Extremely high combat performance for a cybernetically-modified pilot, but its maintenance and upkeep are a constant strain. Notable pilots: Jay Tham (J21)
Civilian:
HS Workman: An unarmed, unarmoured space mecha designed for lifting and moving, repair and salvage work. Ubiquitous in the Saturn System, common elsewhere.
HS Workman "Colonial Special": An illegal modification of the HS Workman, converting its close range laser cutter tool into a weapon capable of breaching armour. Very light, not particularly fast, and has poor range, but better than nothing.
CT Builder MKIII: A bulky construction unit developed by Cirntech. Noted for its modular design. Notable pilots: Mosi North (former)
CT Builder MKIV: A bulky construction unit. Sacrifices modability for improved performance time.
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