The Phoenix Fallacy_Book III_Magnus

by Jon Sourbeer,

  Minotaur

  Corporation

  One of the seven main Corporations of the world. It is most well known for its production of heavy duty vehicles, including the widely used Behemoth transport.

  Mint

  slang (derogatory) – A new officer among Adept Legions

  As it primarily references the inexperience of the officer, it generally only applies to Lieutenants, though exceptions have been made. Usually employed by veteran, lower-ranking soldiers in private, it is occasionally used to vocally protest promotions and decisions. While this is considered a serious breach of conduct, for obvious reasons, it is usually ignored by the ranking officers. Most figure that it is up to the new officer to prove they can take the dings and emerge unscathed.

  MuDi

  technology, also – MuDi Man, muddy

  A MultiDimensional projector. MuDis produce 3D images without the need for special googles or glasses by confining the image within a set of latticed crystals. They are affectionately named ‘muddy’ or ‘muddies’ by Adepts for their tendency to make mission briefings seem less clear and more dangerous than before they were presented.

  Natalie

  Natalie Jennings

  Once a mysterious name mentioned on the back of a phoenix-shaped locket, Natalie Jennings is the birth mother of Janus. As her portrait within the locket reveals, she was an exceedingly beautiful woman. But her joyous painting fails to tell the story of her history as a fearsome Adept officer and of the many tragedies in her life.

  Norm

  Norman Garret Walden – Overlord

  An old man recognized in the slums for his wisdom and compassion. Norm is an old friend of Clara’s and has helped her from time to time. Norm’s age is well outside of a normal slum dweller, and he never discusses his past. He has been known to suffer from claustrophobia, however, likely brought on by some event in his past.

  Northcott

  Ishan Northcott – Major

  The Master-at-Arms of ODIN. Gruff and unforgiving, Major Northcott demands discipline because he knows how dangerous every weapon can be, and can be counted to voice his opinion if given the slightest opportunity. Dependable and loyal, if he has a weakness it is that he is often considered insufferable by his peers and those under his command. This is only because he is often right. He is considered one of the greatest Brevis Bellum players in Valhalla (and likely the world), and can often be seen challenging his favorite punching bag/protégé Lieutenant Forrenza to a battle.

  ODIN

  Legion

  One of the most powerful mercenary Legions to currently exist, the origin of the acronym ODIN is known only to a select few. Although the Legion itself is rather young, it can trace its lineage much further back, though to most the name now references its mythological origins more than anything else. Odin is the chief deity of Norse Mythology, and is represented by a one-eyed, ancient, spear-wielding warrior on horseback. Odin is the God of both wisdom and war, and the father of the other Norse deities.

  Outskirts

  region

  Regions outside of Corporate controlled areas, usually because the Corporations have little to no interests there. Although sometimes blackened and destroyed by war or industry, many areas of the ‘Outskirts’ are simply places of harsh beauty, and lack real economic and strategic value. Populated by small groups who wish to remain free of Corporate control without taking the more militant approach of the Legions, the Outskirts hold only a fraction of the total world population. However, these populations form an important part of the pillars that support the Adept Legions, as they often trade for supplies and provide rare crafts and luxuries uncommon within the greater Corporate sphere. This provides yet another form of income for travelling Legions willing to act as neutral merchants between the groups. Officially, Corporations will attack and destroy any population of ‘Outskirters’ they find, bringing survivors back to their Corporation, but this rarely happens, as Outskirters are experts at stealth, and Corporations rarely devote resources to such tasks. Many young Outskirters, including Lyn and Ramirez, have joined Adept Legions for a variety of reasons.

  Overlord

  rank, also – Overlord caste

  Overlords are the primary taskmasters and administrators of the Corporations. Although they receive orders from the Executors, the Overlords are responsible for the everyday operations of the Corporations. There are usually hundreds of Overlords in a Corporation, all of varying importance and rank. Besides their obvious ties to the Executor caste, Overlords are different from other castes in that heirs apparent to the Executors, such as children, serve as Overlords in the interim. This makes the Overlord caste the only group from which promotion to Executor regularly occurs. It is also one of the few castes where demotion regularly occurs as well, usually through extreme failure or embarrassment. Overlords are the only caste directly involved with Executors, and other than elite generals or Novus rank Inferni, the only ones to speak with them on subjects of any real importance. Overlords usually report directly to a single Executor, and have their responsibilities tailored as such, but there are exceptions, especially when the Overlord is tied to critical functions that impact the overall Corporation. Generally, these exempted Overlords are the five Overlords of Intelligence, Sustenance, Diplomacy, Production, and War, though sometimes these roles are different or combined in some way.

  Passers

  Technology, also – PSRs, Prepared Security Rations

  PSRs, Prepared Security Rations, or ‘Passers’ as they are affectionately known, is the go to foodstuff of armies and citizens everywhere. A plant derivative, PSRs are hearty, cheap, and relatively non-perishable. Often found in a variety of flavors, Passers bear little resemblance to the foods they are supposed to mimic, but few who eat them regularly know the difference. Likely a cheeky reference by those who would rather ‘pass’ on the highly artificial colors and blocky shapes, PSRs have nonetheless developed a reputation as a tasty, nutritious meal, especially among the poorer Corporate castes. In many ways, the negative connotations of the name have been lost, with citizens who have no exposure to fresh foods seeking out PSRs with the brightest, most vivid colors. Recently, Hydra introduced a new and improved ‘Salmon’ flavor, with 76% of citizens reporting that the brighter, more orange-yellow color looked much more appetizing than the old, light pink-orange.

  Phoenix

  Corporation

  Formally the most powerful of the seven main Corporations of the world. Phoenix was destroyed nearly 25 years ago. All that remains is a burned out and blackened husk.

  Phoenix Declaration

  treaty

  A proclamation made by the six surviving Corporations following Phoenix’s destruction. It defined a set of agreed upon territorial lines, limits upon expansion, and created rules for how attacks between Corporations can be made. Most importantly, it prohibited the use of nuclear weapons (most notably), as well as other weapons of mass destruction (somewhat generally). Corporations that violate the first portion of the treaty are subject to censure, while violation of the second is considered an act of war against all Corporations. The Phoenix Declaration is perhaps the most recognized treaty in existence today, and believed to be one of the few agreements capable of unifying increasingly fragmented Corporate relations.

  Praetor

  rank

  The supreme commanders of Adept Legions, Praetors represent the pinnacle of battle prowess and leadership in the world. Both feared and respected, Praetors represent honor, wisdom, and sacrifice in a chaotic world. The word Praetor means to go before in Latin, and was used for great commanders or magistrates in the Roman Empire. They commanded legions of soldiers or acted as the head of government for a settlement or city, depending on whether it was a time of war or peace.

  Praetor Jennings

  Alexander Jennings – Praetor

  The leader and Praetor of ODIN. Still in peak condition and with a mind as sharp as a razor despite his many years of service, Prae
tor Jennings is highly respected both inside and outside of Valhalla’s walls. He does not openly discuss his past, though it is said that his most trusted officers know his story.

  Ramirez

  Ferros Ramirez – Assault Corps

  A man of few words, Ramirez rarely speaks, but when he does, those around him are wise to listen. Strong as an ox and more dependable, Ramirez’ immense size and quiet nature has frequently caused others to underestimate his intellect, often to their detriment. The extent of his bond and attachment to Lyn is unknown, though it has clearly been built over many years.

  Rassan

  full name unknown – Overlord

  An Overlord of Titan, with a sharp, evil grin, and a reputation for lechery.

  Rogers

  Bario Rogers – Captain

  A well-respected Captain in ODIN. He is considered the resident blade-master and is responsible for the training of Adepts in both the use and maintenance of Immutium Ghostblades. Rogers possesses a somewhat wry wit, often unappreciated by his less sophisticated, non-classically trained brethren.

  SHADE

  Legion

  Once the greatest Legion in existence, SHADE was destroyed in the events leading up to Phoenix Corporation’s destruction twenty-five years ago. The original meaning of the name was eventually replaced with supernatural connotations. A term for a wraith or ghost, a shade is a malevolent, invisible force. Many of the common terms relating to Adepts, such as Ghostblades, are attributed to SHADE.

  SHADE Continuum

  treaty

  An agreement reached by all surviving Legions after the destruction of SHADE. The Continuum states that should another Legion ever be attacked directly by a Corporation, all other Legions will band together to assault the guilty party. It was publicized to the Corporations in response to Phoenix Corporation’s destruction and the announcement of the Phoenix Declaration in an effort to curtail such events from ever happening again. Enforcement of the treaty is somewhat nebulous, though all Legions that existed at the time of SHADE’s destruction signed it.

  S.T.

  soldier, aka – Security Trooper, Standard Trooper

  Formally known as Security Troopers or Standard Troopers, S.T.s form the bulk of Corporate armies and security forces. Despite being regarded as rather primitive, S.T.s can make formidable opponents, due to the nature of the armor they wear and weapons they carry. Each S.T. is encased in a strength enhancing full body suit designed to protect them from harm. Designed to resist physical, as well as biological and radiological attacks, S.T. armor is bulky and unwieldy, giving its occupant the appearance of a large, upright, metal gorilla. Unfortunately, mass production of the armor, and a lack of quality control from apathetic Overlords, has led some to question the actual effectiveness of the suits. Regardless, their greater height, weight, and strength can make them imposing figures. Each S.T. carries a large, powerful ‘Zeus’ rifle with incredible offensive potential. Poor training and agility impairments from their bulky suits often make ‘Troopers’ far less effective than perhaps they should be, and the brunt of more than a few jokes. Even with such obvious shortcomings, however, S.T.s should never be discounted as a fighting force, as their large numbers can overwhelm even the most powerful foes.

  Titan

  Corporation

  One of the seven main Corporations of the world. Formally the second most powerful Corporation, Titan has seen a steady decline in the years following the events of 25 years ago. Reports from Overlord Middleton to the Cerberus Executors credit the mysterious Executor Delacroix with the halt of this fall from grace. In mythology, a titan is a massive creature, supernatural in size and power. The Four Titans were the oldest gods in ancient mythology and represented the primitive world before man and the new Gods took power. Each titan was representative of a specific part of the four elements: earth, fire, water, and wind. In the case of Titan Corporation, it is represented by an earth titan, with a rocky, earthen giant as its symbol. Titan excels at weapons manufacturing, and is responsible for the creation of the ubiquitous ‘Zeus’ rifles.

  Transpicuoum

  material

  A plasto-ceramic hybrid that can achieve different levels of opacity based on the current passed through the material. Originally intended to be a tougher, more utilitarian version of common plastics, transpicuoum has become the standard for any surface or object in which tempered, reinforced glass once served as the primary material. Transpicuoum provides the flexibility and durability required to perform in a variety of everyday and extreme environments, while also being significantly easier to manufacture in larger pieces, although often at greater cost.

  Valhalla

  location

  An Avalon class floating fortress. Valhalla is the pinnacle of Praetor Jennings efforts as an engineer and architect to create the ultimate home for Adepts. Powered by a huge reactor and gigantic engines at the base of the city, and home to the entire ODIN fighting force, Valhalla is a force to be reckoned with. In ancient Norse mythology, Valhalla was the heavenly home of the most courageous and valiant Viking warriors. It was a paradise for those brave enough to fight battle honorably and without fear.

  Valkyrie

  vehicle

  The flying interceptor craft of the ODIN legion, designed for air superiority, and also serving a secondary role as first strike bombers. They are sleek, missile-like craft with swept wings and three engines hidden behind a main exhaust nozzle, granting them incredible speed. Their multi-wing design grants them better maneuverability in the air. In mythology, Valkyries were the ultimate female warriors who cared for the brave and bold in Valhalla.

  Wouris

  full name unknown – Sergeant

  Pronounced ‘Worry’, Sergeant Wouris is Janus’ instructor and one of the most well-respected Adepts within ODIN, officer or not. Wouris is the consummate soldier, and a well of good advice and strategy. And despite her sometimes gruff exterior, Wouris cares deeply for those under her command. Her role as ODIN’s Blood Poet puts her into a unique position, as she is responsible for the most sacred of Adept gatherings, the Blood Poets’ Ceremony, and laying to rest those that have fallen in battle. As a result, despite her rank as Sergeant, she is always consulted before ODIN heads into battle.

  Zeus

  weapon, plural – Zeuses, Zeusi

  The semiautomatic Zeus rifle, or Zeus EMG, represents the pinnacle of military weaponry. First developed by Titan Corporation, Zeus rifles use an electromagnetic field to fire lightweight, magnetic rounds at super high velocities. These rifle rounds are capable of penetrating and destroying nearly any target, including armored vehicles. The hollow, superlight rounds require no powder or special components, and thus allow for massive ammo capacity – mimicking stacked cups inside the weapon. Zeus rifles require no moving parts, and as a result, production, storage, and maintenance of the weapons and ammo is elegantly efficient and simple. Zeus EMGs have few disadvantages, though the ones they do possess are substantial. Zeus rifles are extremely heavy, yet still manage to produce a punishing amount of recoil. This weight and recoil is a key factor in their general limitation to use by Corporate S.T.s and others wearing powered armor. Smaller, lighter versions of Zeus rifles are occasionally attempted, but usually fail for a variety of reasons. Automatic varieties face similar issues, but also encounter capacitor power and heat dissipation problems when maintaining constant rates of fire. Those variants that have been deployed are considerably bulkier than even their large, semi-automatic counterparts. Thus, Zeus rifles are usually fashioned to fire as large a round as possible in semi-automatic mode. For automatic-like fire, Zeus weapons are sometimes combined to form multi-barreled weapons which alternate fire. More barrels allow faster rates of fire, at the expense of power and weight. Such setups are more frequently deployed on turrets, armored platforms, and large transports.

  Recently uncovered files of Overlord Middleton (d. 602-07-31):

  Dearest Magnus,

  I write this
to you in the hopes that you are well. I know that recent events have troubled you, but know that I am still loyal, unlike that traitorous merc. I hope that one day you will realize this and forgive me.

  As I feared, she was not content to simply escape us – the catastrophic damage to your estate was unforgivable, but the discarding of your son was the final insult. I now suspect that accursed woman’s little pet maidservant was the one who warned them of our coming, and allowed this terrible set of events to unfold.

  I’m afraid I have been unable to locate Norm within Cerberus. No doubt that the weakling was claimed by the city – as we both know, he would have little hope of surviving by himself. I will continue to send teams to search for his body.