Corporations
In the system of Aelys, three powerful corporations dominate the economy and politics, each with its own goals, strengths, and unique approach to the discovery and extraction of Aeonite. The battle for control over this precious resource has shaped the system's history and continues to drive technological progress, corporate rivalries, and military conflicts.
Solus Concord is the most militarized of the three corporations, built on a foundation of power and control. While their presence in space and on the ground is formidable, Solus has always maintained that their goal is to protect and secure their interests in a dangerous and unstable environment. Their orbital stations above Virell serve as both military outposts and research hubs for Aeonite extraction, and they are committed to maintaining a strong defense against any potential threats. Solus Concord believes that a secure and well-defended system is essential for long-term prosperity, but they do not actively seek conflict. Instead, they aim to deter any hostile actions with their overwhelming defensive capabilities, focusing on stability and control.
Aeon Industries is the most innovative of the three corporations, focusing on pushing the boundaries of technology. Specializing in research and development, Aeon Industries has made major strides in weaponry, energy production, and biological enhancement. Their ambition lies in making Aeonite the key to creating sustainable, advanced technologies that can power the future of Aelys. While Aeon Industries is not as militarized as Solus Concord, they are no strangers to using force when necessary, especially when protecting their intellectual property. They believe that technological superiority will lead to their domination of the galaxy, and they are willing to do whatever it takes to outpace their rivals.
VOSS Enterprises has a reputation for being the least politically involved of the three, preferring to focus on business deals and forging partnerships rather than direct conflict. They tend to operate in the shadows, offering their services to both Aeon Industries and Solus Concord when the price is right, and expanding their influence through financial means rather than military might.
The Syndicate emerged in the Aelys system as a coalition of smaller corporations and organizations united by their opposition to the overwhelming control of the major powers. Founded initially by Chimera, the alliance has grown to include various entities ranging from radical research groups to militant separatists. While each member maintains its independence and pursues its own interests, they share resources, intelligence, and support when their goals align.
Chimera serves as the founding member and often the driving force behind The Syndicate's operations. Their focus on radical genetic modification and biological weaponry provides The Syndicate with unique capabilities in corporate warfare. Originally a legitimate biotech corporation, Chimera went underground after their research into aggressive genetic modifications was exposed, leading them to form alliances with other displaced organizations.
Stormforge has established itself as the Syndicate's premier weapons manufacturer. They specialize in producing high-quality ballistic weapons and military equipment, with a particular focus on reliability and stopping power. Their success comes from their ability to reverse-engineer and improve upon standard corporate military hardware, often finding ways to enhance performance without sacrificing dependability. While Solus Concord maintains strict control over military-grade weapon production, Stormforge has developed extensive networks for acquiring materials and distributing their products throughout the system. Their catalog ranges from enhanced versions of standard-issue firearms to custom-designed heavy weapons
Eclipse specializes in the rapid deployment of temporary logistics networks, establishing "shadow infrastructure" that exists just long enough to complete an operation before vanishing without a trace. Their expertise lies in creating temporary supply lines, communication networks, and transportation systems that can operate undetected within corporate-controlled space. This infrastructure often makes use of experimental FTL technology, allowing them to bypass standard shipping routes and corporate checkpoints.
From their clinics hidden throughout Virell's urban centers, Vertex has built a pharmaceutical empire on the margins of legitimate medicine. They specialize in developing experimental treatments and enhancement drugs, often using unstable Aeonite derivatives in their formulations. Their product line ranges from combat stimulants used in Syndicate operations to experimental therapies sold to desperate patients who can't access corporate healthcare.