Settlement Defence Frontier

The **Settlement Defence Frontier** (Modern Salemian: *Incoluimus Defensionis Fines*) is a totalitarian fascist regime that flourishes on Hades, often known as the Red Planet. Despite the fact that the Nexon Prime Space Command possesses domains on the Red Planet, their existence has remained a mystery for many years. They desire nothing more as a massive empire hellbent on destroying the planet itself to replace the totality of nevanity on Nexonia Prime, and they've just found the ideal opportunity.

Perhaps dominion is imminent.

## Overview

The Settlement Defence Frontier (SDF) traces its origins to a group of radical off-world insurgents who found solace and unity in the harsh landscapes of Hades, or the Red Planet, as it's commonly known. These insurgents, once considered outcasts and rebels, would eventually forge their own destiny, forming the totalitarian fascist regime that is the SDF today.

In the early days of their rebellion, the SDF operated in the shadows, conducting covert operations and gradually expanding their influence across the desolate landscapes of Hades. They tapped into the resource-rich veins of the planet, utilizing the unforgiving environment as a crucible to forge their resolve and strength. As the Nexon Prime Space Command maintained its presence on Hades, the SDF's existence remained a well-guarded secret, shrouded in mystery for years.

At the heart of the SDF's ideology is the belief that they are the rightful heirs of the Zatayni star system. They view themselves as the epitome of strength and purity, a stark contrast to what they perceive as the weakness and decadence of the Nexonia Prime populace. Living in the harsh vacuum of space has instilled in them an extreme survivalist attitude, cementing their belief in an exaggerated version of Social Darwinism.

To the SDF, dominating the Zatayni system is not merely an ambition but a destiny ordained by their resilience and determination. They see themselves as the guardians of the cosmos, the ones who can endure where others falter. This ideology is reflected in their ruthlessness, as they are willing to go to any lengths, including the mass slaughter of citizens and troops, to achieve their vision of supremacy.

Functionality over style is a core principle that permeates every facet of the SDF's existence. Their ships, weapons, and armor are utilitarian in design, prioritizing durability and survivability in the unforgiving vacuum of space. Firearms are standardized, bearing identical designs that emphasize practicality. Even their service droids designed for labour and construction have been repurposed into formidable military units, further bolstering their legions of soldiers.

One striking feature of the SDF's equipment is the presence of futuristic QR codes composed of small triangles. These symbols are emblazoned on their equipment, flags, and some members even have them tattooed on their brows. These codes serve a functional purpose, enabling rapid computer recognition and communication, aligning with the SDF's overarching emphasis on efficiency and functionality.

The apex of SDF's power structure is the Haedian Council, the government and executive echelon that guides the regime with an iron fist. This council consists of high-ranking officials who make pivotal decisions regarding the SDF's operations and strategies. It is shrouded in secrecy, and its members are known for their unwavering dedication to the SDF's cause, demonstrating a level of fanaticism that rivals the most ardent followers of the regime.

The Haedian Council, the highest echelon of governance within the Settlement Defence Frontier (SDF), wields both political and military authority. While their primary role is political in nature, they also formed the High Command, which serves as the central command structure for the SDF's Legions. This dual function highlights the Council's pivotal role in shaping the SDF's policies and military strategies, ensuring that political decisions align with the faction's military objectives.

### Military

The Settlement Defence Frontier (SDF) boasts a formidable and highly disciplined military, the backbone of its totalitarian regime. Known as Legions, these divisions of soldiers form the bulwark of SDF's military power. Each Legionnaire is a battle-hardened and fanatically loyal soldier, molded through rigorous training and indoctrination. The SDF's approach to military service is uncompromising, with all male citizens mandated to serve 15 years in the military, starting as young as 12 years old. This conscription policy ensures that the SDF maintains a constant and substantial force, with 500% more soldiers per capita than the volunteer-based Nexon Prime Space Command (NXSC).

The Settlement Defence Frontier is not beyond utilising unconventional warfare, such as acting like pirates who steal NXSC cargo with resources intended for Nexonia Prime, or committing endless war crimes, as their attacks on several CAA colonies resulted in the deaths of thousands of residents through mass shootings, warship attacks, orbital bombardments or summary executions. They also have chemical weapons of mass destruction, which numerous ships are known to have and employ against their opponents.

The SDF does not adhere to the concept of camouflage in their regular uniforms and combat gear. Their standard attire is characterized by a striking crimson red, a color that stands out prominently. Security personnel typically wear black and grey uniforms. In the case of operations on winter planets, soldiers opt for simple white gear. Even on the moon Shiyonupe of Shion C8, which has a brownish-yellow surface, the camouflage pattern is limited, usually appearing on shoulders or their trousers only. This bold choice of uniform colors underscores the SDF's emphasis on fearlessness and an imposing presence.

Within the SDF, women are barred from frontline combat roles. However, they play vital roles in auxiliary positions that support the military's operations. Women excel in roles such as communications, piloting aircraft, and logistics, where their skills and contributions are highly respected. This division of roles reflects the SDF's strict and traditional gender norms, which prioritize women's involvement in support functions rather than direct combat.

The SDF takes population control seriously. Frontline soldiers are forbidden from marrying or having children, a measure implemented to ensure full commitment to military duties. Only officers are permitted to establish families through population expansion programs, reinforcing the regime's control over its citizens.

#### Army

   What are known as **Legions** forms the entirety of the Frontier's Army. The term Legion is used to designate to any of their divisions, with each soldier considered a Legionnaire. The SDF's military doctrine is characterized by adaptability and versatility. Every Legionnaire in their Legions are expected to be proficient in various combat situations, regardless of the environment or conditions. This multifaceted training includes expertise in space combat, ground warfare, and covert operations, allowing the SDF to wage war effectively on multiple fronts.

Plasma weaponry is the cornerstone of the SDF's arsenal. Cutting-edge plasma rifles, blasters, and cannons are standard issue for Legionnaires, providing them with a distinct advantage in energy-based combat. Ballistic firearms, though secondary in use, are still maintained for personal preferences and certain tactical situations.

To supplement their infantry, the SDF deploys a wide array of autonomous tactical drones, colloquially known as combat droids. These machines play a crucial role in both combat and security operations. Among the notable models are the CID-6 and CID-8, versatile drones that serve combat, security, and even various logistical functions. They are often deployed from orbital drop pods, rapidly infiltrating hostile environments to provide support and reconnaissance.

CID-12 mecha tanks serve as the mainstay armored units of the SDF, providing both firepower and protection on the battlefield. COMPATRIOT aerial drones are employed for close-range infantry support, enhancing the SDF's ground operations. Small Seeker robotic grenades are utilized to seek out hidden or entrenched targets, flushing out adversaries with ruthless efficiency.

As the SDF continues to evolve its military capabilities, the CID-7 has gradually replaced the aging CID-6. The CID-7 represents a significant leap forward in technology and effectiveness, offering superior performance in every aspect. While the CID-6 still finds use in specific applications such as security and construction, the CID-7 serves as the cutting-edge workhorse of the SDF's military forces.

The SDF relies on Warden dropships to swiftly deploy its soldiers onto the battlefields of various planets. These dropships are essential for the rapid response and strategic mobility that the SDF requires to maintain the upper hand in conflicts.

#### Navy

   The Settlement Defence Frontier's (SDF) navy stands as a formidable force, representing the military arm that secures the regime's expansionist goals in the Zatayni star system. With at least 4000 jump-capable, faster-than-light (FTL) warships at their disposal, the SDF Navy is a significant contender in the cosmic arena.

The SDF Navy has reached numerical parity with the Nexon Prime Space Command (NXSC), a remarkable feat given the vast resources, far more combat experience and volunteer-based nature of the NXSC. This parity raises the specter of a potential confrontation that could change the balance of power in the Zatayni system. The SDF fields approximately the same number of ships as the NXSC, setting the stage for intense space combat should hostilities erupt.

The SDF Navy is organized into eighteen distinct fleets, each under the command of seasoned admirals and vice-admirals. These fleets patrol the vast expanses of the Zatayni star system, ensuring the SDF's dominance in the region. The newest addition, the 18th Orbital Fleet, holds particular significance as the largest in the SDF's naval arsenal. Admiral Vladimir Thies, alongside Vice-admirals Caleb Salienne and Oleg Kozlov, leads this formidable fleet. It boasts the most potent warship in the SDF's possession, the SFS-1 Olympus Imperium.

The backbone of the SDF Navy's firepower consists of thousands of JUKE-L destroyers and KARRAK cutters. These vessels are the workhorses of the fleet, providing both offensive and defensive capabilities. While destroyers deliver punishing barrages of energy and ballistic based weaponry, cutters offer rapid and precise maneuvers, ensuring the SDF maintains an agile and responsive force.

Several carriers complement the SDF's naval capabilities, serving as mobile bases, and platforms for starfighters and strike craft. These carriers enable the rapid deployment and recovery of spacefighter squadrons, expanding the SDF's reach and versatility in space combat. All SDF ships proudly bear the initials "SFS," signifying "Settlement Frontier Ship." This uniform naming convention reflects the regime's emphasis on unity and conformity within its navy.

In fast-paced space combat scenarios, the SDF relies on the D8 Tusker as its primary starfighter jet. These nimble craft are designed for agility and versatility, making them formidable opponents in dogfights. SDF aces, including the elite pilots, utilize the next-generation D9 Supernova. Originally a prototype, the D9 Supernova was rushed into service due to high demand, outclassing its predecessors in speed, firepower, and maneuverability. It ensures that the SDF maintains an edge in aerial combat, particularly against the NXSC's Jackal and Sabre starfighters.

##### Members

The terroristic empire known as the Settlement Defence Frontier of the Zatayni Star System contains millions, if not billions, of all known personnel, ranging from navy commanders, High Council officials, High Command members, to legion troops from their formidable legions that constitute their Army.

###### 8th Orbital Fleet

The 8th Orbital Fleet is the latest and most powerful fleet of all in the Frontier. As a result, it is headed by their finest political and military figures to ever grace their Haedian history. As one would expect, the fleets not only control their military's naval might, but also their army and political organisation, the Haedian High Council, or High Council for short.

The SDF High Command is the sole leading commanding branch of the Settlement Defense Frontier.

* **Admiral**
	+ Vladimir Thies
* Vice-Admirals
	+ Caleb Salienne
	+ Oleg Kozlov
* Secretary of Defence
	+ Keanu Larabih
* Council Advisor
	+ Levan Lowenthal

##### Battle Force

The Battle Force is the humongous fighting division of the Settlement Defence Frontier's ships and infantry units. It is composed up of their Naval fleets and Army Legions, whom share a stunning amount of working personnel, combat droids, resources, and overall firepower in order to exert dominance over the entire Zatayni System.

The SDF maintains exceptionally high standards when it comes to marksmanship, particularly with conventional firearms. Recruits who fail to meet these standards face a grim fate—they are executed. This zero-tolerance approach underscores the SDF's uncompromising demand for precision and accuracy on the battlefield.

###### 337th Division - Codename GORE

The 337th Division, GORE, is the Frontier Army's most vicious and efficient infantry fighting formation. Soldiers are expected to withstand their long, yet life-threatening training under the cruel Zakaryas Yakim to become their most deadly soldiers in the star system.

Zakaryas Yakim is renowned within the Settlement Defence Frontier as one of its most ruthless and demanding instructors. One of his notorious training exercises involves an extreme test of survival in the harsh vacuum of outer space. Recruits are pushed into space with punctured suits and minimal oxygen reserves. The sole objective is to enter a designated airlock within a time limit. Failure to do so results in certain death.

* Captain 1st Rank
	+ Nganni Ormin
	+ Trekay Zakolai
	+ Albert Winston
* Captain 3rd Rank
	+ Radoslav Thorkan
	+ Sergei Lebehl
* Captain Lieutenant
	+ Viktor Thorkan
	+ Jamari Cuenca
	+ Ony Semenov
* Sergeant
	+ Maxim Legenov
	+ Zoren MerAvii
* Corporal
	+ Trukhin Nikita Larionovich
	+ Dementyev Isaak Gennadiyevich
	+ Nosachyov Leontiy Makarovich
	+ Savasin Zinoviy Kirillovich
	+ Bogolepov Rasim Ilyich
	+ Klepakk Kirill (Kirilka) Yermolayevich

###### 13th Division - Omen

The 13th Division, designated Omen, is a prominent and vicious infantry division of the Army's Legions.

* Captain 1st Rank
	+ Khosi Hamada
* Sergeant
	+ Galkin Matvei Kirillovich
* Corporal
	+ Konnor Reacher
	+ Tikhokhod Timofei Semyonovich
	+ Yerofeyev Kusma (Kusya) Afanasievich
	+ Voskoboynikov Leonid (Lyonya) Dmitrievich
	+ Yerofeyev Lavrentiy Valeryevich
* Private
	+ Obolensky Vasil Sergeyevich
	+ Sherkov Dimitri Fyodorovich
	+ Artamonov Samuil Nikitovich

##### Scouting Force

* Senior Lieutenant
	+ Achilles Maxima
* Lieutenant
	+ Dong Hae-Min
	+ Jang Cheoul-Woo
* Junior Lieutenants
	+ Markos Chihiahia
	+ Karlos Marzensky
	+ Denver Varnardo

##### Air Combat Command

###### Outer Planet Squadron

* Lieutenant-Colonel
	+ Damien Walthers
* Wing Commander
	+ Curran Villan
* Colonel
	+ Emerston Navari
* Major
	+ Reznov Kravchenko

###### Belt Squadron

* Captains
	+ Julian Bryle (Alive/K.I.A.)
	+ Hari Misatu (Alive/K.I.A.)
	+ Kaedehera Natsuki (K.I.A.)
	+ Sophie Alembough (Alive/K.I.A.)

###### Surveillance and Engagement

* Senior Lieutenants
	+ Rozak Leyo
	+ Amit Hassan
	+ Swift Elton
	+ Malcolm Cirilya
* Lieutenants
	+ Gene Mapother
	+ Marcus Forest
	+ Adrian Frost
	+ Rulon Sevv
	+ Sevika Montenegro
	+ Hullka Yumii
* Junior Lieutenants
	+ Desya Stepanov
	+ Ignacy Urbanek
	+ Włodzimierz Czechowicz
	+ Cyprian Macak
	+ Bonifacy Morawski
	+ Marek Kozłowski
	+ Wilhelm Matusik
	+ Cyryl Stodoła
	+ Marceli Juraszczyk
	+ Jacek Kuciński
	+ Ioakim Gusev
	+ Jordan Ruffalo
	+ Maksim Nikitin

## Society & Culture

The society and culture of the Settlement Defence Frontier (SDF) are deeply intertwined with the totalitarian government that holds absolute power over its citizens. As a result, the SDF's culture is marked by militarism, loyalty to the regime, and a carefully cultivated narrative that reinforces the government's authority.

Items originating from Nexonia Prime, excluding firearms and armor, are regarded as contraband in SDF regions and are strictly prohibited. This prohibition reinforces the regime's desire to maintain ideological purity and suppress external cultural influences. It serves as a symbol of the SDF's defiance of Nexonia Prime's perceived decadence.

### Totalitarian Governance

The SDF is governed by a totalitarian regime that exercises complete control over every aspect of its citizens' lives. While the High Council technically holds elections, these are largely a facade, as Council members serve for life. The regime's grip extends not only to the planet Hades but also to its colonies, including the moons of the gas giant Shion C8. Social standing within the SDF is predominantly determined by an individual's unwavering loyalty to the regime.

Gun ownership is compulsory within SDF territory, further emphasizing the society's militaristic nature. Citizens are expected to be armed and prepared to defend the regime at all times. This policy not only instills a sense of collective responsibility but also serves as a tool of social control.

### Credit Towards Citizenship

State-sponsored propaganda permeates SDF territory, and one recurring message is that every confirmed kill is a "credit towards citizenship." This slogan implies that military service and achievements in combat grant certain privileges or rights within the society. It serves as a constant reminder of the government's emphasis on martial prowess and the collective responsibility of its citizens to contribute to the regime's goals.

### Cydon

The propaganda machine known as the "Cydon" is the primary instrument for controlling the distribution of information within SDF areas. It exercises strict censorship and even bans any transmissions from the Nexon Prime Space Command (NXSC). The Cydon plays a pivotal role in shaping public perception and ensuring that citizens remain isolated from external influences.

### Calendar

The SDF's propaganda goes to great lengths to manipulate historical facts and create a distorted narrative. They use an alternate calendar that labels the current year as Year 129, counting from the Frontier's supposed "independence." This fabricated history is a means to emphasize the regime's legitimacy and portray itself as a long-standing entity, despite its relatively recent emergence.

### Labour Camps

The SDF maintains forced labor camps, often utilizing nevians as laborers. This practice is a form of punishment for crimes against the regime. While the SDF possesses an abundance of droids and machines, the use of nevians for forced labor underscores the government's willingness to exert dominance and instill fear through physical coercion.

### Stratified Population Control

Reproduction and access to sexual intercourse are tightly controlled within the SDF, a practice referred to as "population growth programs." These programs are suspended during battle operations, causing frustration among enlisted soldiers. However, officers, Council members, and the High Command may be exempt from these restrictions. An illicit market for permits to reproduce has emerged within the SDF, reflecting the highly stratified and regimented nature of their civilization. The regime tightly manages population growth to ensure absolute control over its citizens.

## Quotes

### Mantra

> "Death is no disgrace."
>
>

* These words, spoken by Admiral Vladimir Thies, encapsulate the unyielding resolve and unwavering dedication that define the Settlement Defence Frontier. Thies, a prominent figure within the SDF, emphasizes a core belief of the faction—that death in service to the Frontier is not a dishonor but a testament to one's commitment. This quote serves as a stark reminder of the regime's relentless pursuit of its goals and the sacrifices expected of its citizens and soldiers.

### Creed

> "Hades Aeternum"
>
> - SDF Haedian creed

* "Hades Aeternum" serves as the creed of Haedian Legionnaires, citizens, and council members alike, uniting them under a common banner of unwavering loyalty to the Settlement Defence Frontier. This phrase echoes through the ranks, instilling a sense of eternal commitment to the regime and its ideals. It embodies the belief that the SDF's legacy will endure for all time, even in the face of formidable adversaries and challenging circumstances.

### Words of Wisdom

> "Through the abyss, we prevail."
>
>

* This quote signifies the SDF's unwavering determination and resilience in the face of the unknown and often perilous challenges they encounter in the depths of space and on alien worlds. It reflects their commitment to pushing forward despite adversity.

> "In unity, we conquer."
>
>

* Unity and cohesion are core principles of the SDF. This quote underscores the idea that their strength lies in their ability to work together as a cohesive force, combining their individual skills and strengths to achieve victory in the most challenging of situations.

> "Adapt or perish."
>
>

* The SDF operates in a constantly changing and hostile environment. This quote emphasizes their ability to adapt to new circumstances and technologies rapidly. It serves as a reminder that survival depends on their capacity to evolve and overcome emerging threats.

> "In darkness, we shine."
>
>

* This quote reflects the SDF's resolve to be a beacon of hope and strength even in the darkest of times. It signifies their commitment to bringing light to the unknown and standing as a symbol of resilience and courage.

> "From the ashes, we rise."
>
>

* The SDF acknowledges that setbacks and losses are part of their journey. This quote emphasizes their ability to recover, rebuild, and emerge stronger after facing adversity. It embodies the spirit of resilience and determination that defines their mission.

> "Silent, swift, deadly."
>
>

* This quote describes the SDF's preferred approach to combat and covert operations. It highlights their expertise in operating silently, moving swiftly, and executing their missions with deadly precision. It symbolizes their effectiveness in both overt and covert roles.

> "Innovation breeds supremacy."
>
>

* The SDF places a significant emphasis on technological advancements and innovation. This quote reinforces their belief that staying at the forefront of technological developments is crucial for maintaining their supremacy and ensuring their survival in a hostile universe.

> "For the frontier, we fight."
>
>

* The SDF's primary mission is to defend the frontiers of nevanity against external threats. This quote encapsulates their dedication to protecting the settlers and colonies in uncharted regions of space, often at great personal sacrifice.

## Trivia

### General

* At the time of the events of *True Ultimatum*, it is year 129 for the Settlement Defense Front, counted from the day of the *Secession*, when the SDF became independent.
* They went unnoticed throughout the *Nevian-Colossian War*, as those were the times where they grew since the war started.
* The SDF's primary arms manufacturer is Quantum Dynamics.
* Despite the SDF's reliance on energy-based weapons, the boot camp for SDF recruits places a significant emphasis on marksmanship. Recognizing the inferior accuracy and precision of energy-based weaponry compared to ballistic ammunition, recruits undergo an extensive rigorous marksmanship training after enduring grueling physical tests. This training equips SDF soldiers with the skills needed to excel in combat situations that demand precision and accuracy.
* Legionnaires within the SDF treat each other with a certain mechanical detachment. When one of their own falls in combat, their primary focus is to recover the fallen soldier's body and prepare for a funeral. The comrades left alive are expected to carry on with the mission, sticking closely to their squad leader to maximize their chances of survival. This mechanistic approach reflects the SDF's unwavering commitment to its goals, even in the face of loss.
* They are now an extremely powerful empire, but their goal may be easier by the fact that LORD ANNIHILATOR is about to destroy the planet through his new war.
* SDF legionnaires are known for their distinctive way of speaking, characterized by a formal and robotic tone. Even in everyday conversations, they often use precise and concise language. For example, instead of responding with a casual "I agree with you," they would reply with phrases like "Agreed" or "Positively Affirmative." This formal communication style reflects the disciplined and structured nature of the SDF's military culture.
* The SDF population is precisely composed of 40% Evalks, 26% Yurian, 15% Aryan, 10% Panamoan and lastly a 9% mixture of various nationalities from Nexonia Prime.
* In the diverse regions of Hades, each city has its own unique term to describe its citizens. For example, the capital city, Maxim Vallis, is home to "Valleans," while Rahdon is inhabited by "Rahdonians," Teranis Mons has its "Teranians," and Pavonis boasts its "Pavonians." These demonyms reflect the localized identities and cultures that have emerged within the planet's various settlements.

### Developmental Notes

* The Settlement Defence Frontier has marked a long lasting **influence** on PROJECT. The latter has a lot of similarities with the space empire, which is not limited to weapons, emblem, gear, technology and a massive emphasis for modularity.
* Around 15% of SDF personnel has successfully joined PROJECT without learning of their true colours.
* The SDF saw PROJECT as their "coincidental counterpart", but they soon grew surprised when they fell after losing a war they have started.
* Officers within the SDF are not only skilled in military strategy but also in the art of deception. When briefed about mission failures or casualties, they are required to obscure the true reasons behind such outcomes. For example, if an NXSC Navy special ops team infiltrates and destroys an SDF destroyer, officers must craft narratives that attribute the enemy's success to luck rather than acknowledging that they were outmatched or outsmarted. Failure to do so results in execution, highlighting the regime's obsession with maintaining a facade of invincibility.
* Council members within the SDF enjoy certain privileges that set them apart from the rank and file soldiers. They are exempt from the strict rules that prohibit Legionnaires from pursuing relationships or a life of leisure. However, this exemption comes with a crucial condition—they must remain dedicated to their duty and unwavering in their loyalty to the regime. This arrangement reflects the hierarchy and power dynamics within the SDF, with the Council members enjoying a degree of personal freedom as long as they do not compromise their commitment to the faction.
* SDF Legionnaires, while not necessarily considered attractive by conventional standards, are renowned for their exceptional physical conditioning and well-maintained physiques. The demanding training and discipline instilled in them during their service contribute to their robust physical attributes. These traits are seen as symbols of their dedication and readiness for combat.
* Their main language is composed of Galactic Basic and Modern Salemian.
* The SDF has only four female soldiers in their history.