Alopex Expanse

The Alopex Expanse is an authoritarian, xenophobic empire that have for centuries stood isolated in the known galaxy. Led by the Seven Alopex Noble Houses, the Alopex have endured centuries of constant struggle against dangers – both within and without.

Whether it be dangerous beasts lurking in the Etherium or treasonous legions within their species – the Alopex have endured… for now… From their Homeworld of Niflheim, from the Home System of Alopex, the Alopex have gone through cycles of growth and decline. From the good times of growth and expansion, to the terrible times of death and decline as they faced the hostile Etherium. In the present, the Alopex Expanse stands in a precarious situation – besieged by predatory aliens at their borders, while within does the feuds of the past remain fresh scars. And little do they know of the greater Etherium beyond…

The Ancient Alopex (??? BTP)
It all began thousands of years ago. In the vast swaths of The Galaxy, in a system dominated by a lone blue star, does a planet - frozen and ice, give birth to life… Niflheim, as it was called. This planet would play a pivotal role in the coming ages of this region of the galaxy…

From the ice caves of Niflheim emerged the early ancestors of the Alopex. The Ancient Alopex, as they were known, soon spread all over Niflheim. Well-suited to the cold temperatures of their world, their population grew. From the earliest individuals, came the tribes. Scattered across the world, these tribes would fight among each other. Wars over resources, land, mates - it was a struggle that only the strongest - those chosen by fate, would deserve to live.

For centuries, Alopex learned how to kill and harm one another. Centuries of strife and bloodshed. To live is to struggle, and to struggle is to live. There was no room for the weak. The cycle would go on and on…

Until the sky broke…

The Trial of a Species (~1500 BTP)
On that day, the sky shattered as lightning and fire rained from above. Death had come. With a swiftness never before seen - Niflheim was invaded by beings from beyond the stars. Dark ships blotted the sun and brought with them invaders - terrible creatures… Ones of malice and hatred, those that were lucky would be slain by them. The less fortunate, or the “cursed” - would be left to survive in an existence of a prey. Hunted down to be killed, or enslaved where only death awaited them. The tribes all eradicated…

None could stand against them. Except for those from The Valley…

In a valley hidden from the predatory eyes of the sky, did Seven Sons from Seven Tribes gather.

The Seven Sons… their names were:

Æthelfuch Rebane

Æthelberht Igelstrom

Ætheleft Kettunen

Æthelpeut Ernmund

Ætheleult Svartgeirr

Ætheloft Audgisil

Æthelket Frostulf

Only them and what was left of their tribes remained as the only Alopex yet to be conquered. Gathered here in the valley, they sought something. Something ancient, something that predates the existence of the Alopex....

Below the valley, deep in the furthest levels of Niflheim, would they find it…

A giant crystal, one of extraordinary light and power. It called them… and they approached… Mesmerized by it, they placed their hands on the crystal and would they have a grand vision. Great energy surged through their bodies; power flowed through them. Taken by the crystal, with a great binding flash of light - would they emerge changed…

Empowered by the crystal, they would bring forth their knowledge and skills to their tribes. The Alopex would have a chance to fight off the invaders. The light of the crystal, glowing with bright energy was brimming with power. Simple arrows and spears became weapons that could rain fire and project beams. Bestowed upon such knowledge and weapons, the “primitive” Alopex took the fight against their invaders.

From the snowy lands, ambushes would be made on the invaders.

To the great icy mountains, their flying machines would be shot down.

The snow… stained with the blood red of the invaders as the Alopex would disappear without a trace…

For years, the Alopex put up a fight. Each day, another Alopex saved to join their ranks. With each passing day, the patience of the invaders grew thin – having underestimated the Alopex.

In their anger, they sought to destroy the Alopex once and for all. A final battle of extermination – to draw the fox out. Thus, was the stage set for a climatic showdown.

Laying siege to the Valley, the invaders sought to destroy the Alopex once and for all – to seize their precious crystal. But the Alopex were not going down without a fight.

And the Seven Sons had prepared for this battle…

A long siege was made upon the city within the valley. Facing the fury of the invaders, the Alopex huddled together as they fought on side by side – to the bitter end. But then, one day, help arrived. The Seven Sons, together with their forces came to relieve the city.

Surrounding the enemy and attacking from strategic locations did the Seven Sons break the siege – and in a great rout, defeat the enemy in detail. Riding forth at the vanguard, Æthelfuch Rebane and Æthelberht Igelstrom joined together in battle prayers. As brothers, they rode together as broke the enemy’s lines. Together, they watched as the invaders fled to the skies.

With a great portal, the invaders disappeared from the stars beyond Niflheim – never to be seen again…

The Alopex stood victorious, with their fate before them. Æthelfuch Rebane, Æthelberht Igelstrom, Ætheleft Kettunen, Æthelpeut Ernmund, Ætheleult Svartgeirr, Ætheloft Audgisil, and Æthelket Frostulf would swear a blood oath to each other. That among them, one of the seven shall ascend above all to rule. That from there, are they all equal - none shall inherit the crown only for their own kin. From the seven, one emerged to become the First Alopex Emperor…

History has forgotten which of the seven emerged. But the Emperor and Princes ruled the Alopex, and so would the fates of the Alopex and the Seven be tied for history.

The First Emperor declared that a New Age has begun…

The Age of Unification (~1000 BTP)
From that point on, the Alopex underwent a change, an evolution, no ascension… one never before seen by the Alopex. With the power of the now-named “Heart of Niflheim” would the Alopex advance beyond their predecessors. Technology grew at an unimaginable pace as knowledge expanded. From stone came muskets that projected fire. What was tribal clothing and armor became designed clothes and uniforms. Out of tribes emerged cities. Soon, the clouds of smoke joined natural clouds above Niflheim as an industrial age had begun…

The Alopex Religion also came to be formalized during this time. But, as technological advancements were made, did a schism begin to build.

Returning to their old ways, the Alopex began to distrust one another over beliefs. Belief in the Crystals – the ones they wore around their necks. Is this the power and knowledge that aided them in their struggle generations before? Or was it the technological advancements they made on their own and what was harvested from the invaders? As centuries went by, would the Alopex begin to forget the power of the crystals. The “Heart of Niflheim” faded into obscurity – save for the Alopex Noble Houses that still believed in it…

In one century, a great schism occurred as the Alopex Emperor Arngeir Ernmund sought to curb the influence of the Crystal. Banishing it from official Alopex religion – would it trigger outrage. Those that still believed in the times of old - ancient culture, sought to preserve their way of life and took up arms in revolt against the coming tide of technology.

The Brother’s War had begun…

The Emperor, supported by House Igelstrom, House Ernmund, House Frostulf, and House Svartgeirr. Millions were within their ranks. Their armies, built from the masses of conscripted levies. Peasants, quickly shoved into a uniform and given a laser musket, minimal training. They were the “New Age” - one that believed in the power of technology, that the social order belonged to the Emperor.

The Rebels, consisting of House Rebane, House Kettunen, and House Audgisil. Only hundreds of thousands were there in number. Their legions of warriors - trained from birth stood to defend the faith. Male and Female, stood side by side to defend what they believed in. Armed with the very bows, spears, staves, and swords that they used during the times of the First Emperor - they made their stand.

For a decade would the two sides fight. The armies of the Emperor marched forth to crush the rebellion. But underestimating the rebels – led by House Rebane proved to be a much greater foe than imagined. With the crystal necklaces to their hearts, they cried out their battle prayers and fought a bloody war against the Imperials – dragging it on for a decade. In humiliating ratios would the Imperials suffer on the field of battle against the Rebels. But, with their overwhelming numbers would they march on into the Rebel homelands.

And so, by the dawn of the final year would the last battle take place. On an open field – the bulk of each other’s armies faced each other.

On one side, the dawn rose over the Imperial forces. The Emperor himself had come to witness the end of the rebellion, to which his forces outnumbered the rebels 60 to 1. Raising their bayonets into the air, the soldiers stood ready. Pristine, clean uniforms. Outfitted with standard equipment and given basic drill, they were the face of the new age of the Alopex warrior. On the other, stood the Rebels defiantly against the Emperor. Husbands and Wives stood side by side, clad in tribal armor or garments - of an ancient time. Crystal Necklaces hanging around them and glowing with energy, their faith undying against the horde before them. The old caste of warriors - from birth to the grave, they were trained in the art of war. They were not willing to be usurped or replaced by simple peasants armed with guns.

With the blare of a trumpet did the battle again…

Marching forth line by line, the Imperial forces advanced towards the Rebels. Rifles raised and bayonets pointed, they continued to close the distance. But then a horn sounded off and a rain of arrows plunged down upon the Imperials. Their lines shaken and bleeding, Prince Authun Rebane called forth a charge and with the Warriors of his House behind him broke through the Imperial lines, creating a bloodbath.

In his anger, Emperor Arngeir Ernmund ordered a second wave to be sent over. A dozen more regiments – into the fray! Marching and shouting the name of the Emperor, they took up positions and fired volley after volley into the Rebane warriors… and their own Imperials in the melee bloodbath. But then, Prince Kettunen and Prince Audgisil came forth with cavalry on the flanks and ran down the Imperial reinforcements! Having discharged their shots, they had to wait some time before they can reload their laser muskets – enough time for the cavalry to close the distance. Seeing the sight of an organized enemy that was charging towards them, many Imperials broke and ran in complete rout.

Emperor Ernmund himself was forced to flee to a safer distance as he and his entourage were shamefully rushed off the field of battle. Imperial banners dropped, even rifles as the infantry ran back towards their lines. Regrouping, the Rebels planned their next motion – to press on the attack to capture the Emperor. The war must end today!

Led by Prince Authun Rebane, Prince Kettunen and Prince Audgisil along with the majority of the Rebel cavalry sped off in pursuit. The Imperials put up a desperate last line of defense – a hold to defend the Emperor.

Charging through the battlefield, guns kept firing and blowing away the charge. But still, they rode on. Soon, they were within range and Imperial infantry opened up with their muskets – laser bolts came out in volleys and claimed riders off their mounts.

But onwards they charged, their numbers bleeding but faith unbroken. Charging over the first line of infantry, they cut them down.

Desperate to save their situation, and fearful for the Emperor’s – and their own life, Prince Audolf Igelstrom ordered new weapons to be brought out and revealed…

First came projectiles that upon exploding on the ground – a strange cloud erupted from them. Then… breathing it in, came a burning pain within the chest. Followed by tears at the eyes. Lungs burning, it brought agony to the Rebel warriors. What foul weapon is this...?

With tears running down his eyes and blood foaming in up in his mouth, Prince Authun Rebane kept going forth – leading the charge when the two other Princes had fallen.

Another weapon awaited him and his warriors… Blankets were removed and new guns were shown. With their crews at the ready, their sights set on the oncoming Rebels…

“Rat-tat-tat-tat-tat-tat-tat” filled the air as hundreds of laser bolts were spat out by each gun. Within seconds, riders were thrown off their mounts with a loud “thud” as more laser bolts flew over them.

Taking the blows, Prince Authun Rebane rode on, until he reached the Emperor’s position. The Imperial Guard stood ready with bayonets and were about to attack him when with a wave of the Emperor’s hand dismissed them. Slowly, with blood spilling from his mouth, Prince Authun Rebane reached Emperor Arngeir Ernmund. Looking each other eye to eye, the two opposing sides of the war saw each other. Handing over his crystal necklace, putting it in the Emperor’s hand. The Rebane Prince only muttered:

“Do not forget your past.” to the Emperor before the life left his eyes, his body collapsing on his knees, before kneeling over in death.

With tears veiling up in his eyes, the Emperor ordered a halt to the battle. By then however, it was already won - the superior numbers and weaponry of the Imperial forces had bloodied the Rebel forces to insignificance.

But the Emperor called a halt to hostilities…

In a change of heart, the Emperor would issue a proclamation that returned the status of the ancient crystals into the Alopex religion. That in the end, these crystal necklaces - made from the “Heart of Niflheim” - contained the beating heart and soul of the Alopex. To not be with one, is not separate one’s entity from the Alopex race.

A compromise made - the Seven Alopex Noble Houses that fought on the side of the rebellion were given amnesty. And thus, was the iconic wear of the Alopex crystal necklace on every Alopex to the present born…

A lesson learned in blood, that there must be a balance between Tradition and Technology, Culture and Progress. That both must be cared for.

With the position of the Emperor now established and unquestioned, it was time for the Alopex to turn towards the stars…

The Fate in the Stars (900-700 BTP)
A time of relative peace came upon the Alopex as following the so-called “Unification” they entered an age of reconstruction and rehabilitation. Turning towards the stars, the Alopex sought to turn forget the problems at home and between themselves by going off-world. The first solar-powered lightships of the Alopex left the atmosphere of Niflheim and reached the moon of Heimdall, where soon small colonies were established. The first step for the Alopex in their spacefaring age.

As technological advances were made, travel between Niflheim and Heimdall became more common, cities soon sprang up on the moon. Eventually, the time for further expansion was made. A new generation of spacers and ships departed from Niflheim and explored the Alopex system – under the guidance of that icy blue star, they charted the neighboring islands and cosmic features.

As before with the moon, the Alopex established settlements on these islands and the system surged in population.

But once again, did rifts arise within the Alopex…

The Lunar Colony of Heimdall felt grievances towards the homeworld of Niflheim following rejections of their issues to be addressed or even noticed by the central government. Considered to be “colonials” by the homeworld Alopex, the Heimdall or “moon-bound” Alopex questioned the notion of their servitude and loyalty to a government and especially an Emperor who never stepped foot on their soil.

The stage was set for the Lunar Rebellion…

The Lunar Colony of Heimdall made a Declaration of Independence in 825 BTP in which they outlined the “total sovereignty” of the lunar colony and the right for any Alopex colony to “self-determination” from the tyrannical, centralized rule of Niflheim. Not willing to lose their first colony and the important milestone in the history of their species – Niflheim sent a strong response.

In the first ever recorded space battle of the war, the two fleets of the Niflheim Imperials and the Heimdall Rebels met – in an indecisive battle. Inexperienced with the concept of a space battle and their ships being little more than hastily armed and converted exploration ships, it was a disaster for both sides – and bloody lesson that it would be a long fight.

For three decades, Heimdall would remain independent from Niflheim and attempt to establish contact – to even urge the island colonies within the Alopex system to join in rebellion against Niflheim. However, Niflheim with its greater population and industrial capacity had rebuilt itself a much larger fleet to which it used to blockade the entirety of Heimdall in high orbit – out of fear of the ground defenses of the moon. And the cautious Imperial leadership wanted to starve the resistance on Heimdall out, to which Heimdall only enjoyed time – for they had a sufficient population with adequate food production to wait out the siege for generations to come…

Following the ascension of Emperor Skegg Igelstrom in the final year of the war did the attitude of the Niflheim Alopex change drastically. An impatient and aggressive man, Emperor Skegg Igelstrom demanded the submission of Heimdall by all means, whatever the cost within the end of the year. Even going so far as to bully and browbeat the other Alopex Houses into compliance with his war strategy – despite receiving must resistance the Rebane Family.

Eventually, the long-awaited invasion of Heimdall began where the infamous “Heimdall Drop” was made – a long orbital bombardment of the moon was made, as Alopex bombarded their own. Then afterwards, a massive landing was undertaken where the armies of Niflheim were transported from the fleet above and Niflheim onto the surface of Heimdall. Having failed to neutralize the majority of Heimdall’s aerial defenses – many landing craft and ships were shot down as they made their descent. But nonetheless, the Imperials came forth.

Landing, the Imperials faced heavy resistance and at first seemed like they were to be encircled and slaughtered in their small pocket or landing zone, but as more and more poured in, they eventually broke out and fanned throughout the surrounding regions, before overtaking the entirety of the moon with brute numbers. The Heimdall Drop was costly, but it ended the Lunar Rebellion.

With the crushing of the Lunar Rebellion, Heimdall was eventually rehabilitated following a decade of direct military occupation. However, the conflict gave rise to much question – if the Alopex were to have a rebellion, so close to their very homeworld, could this be a foreshadow of the future? That as the Alopex go beyond their system, far from their homeworld, would there be more deviants and calls for separation? How will one be able to rule or wield power effectively over such distance if you cannot even control what is beyond your home?

A restructuring needed to be made. Heimdall was elevated to a higher status than before the war.

And, following the ascension of the next Alopex Emperor, was the Alopex Expanse born…

The Dawn of the Alopex Expanse (700 BTP)
Following the end of the Lunar Rebellion and the consolidation of Niflheim’s authority, the Alopex began to look outwards beyond their Home System. What lies beyond the Light of Alopex?

On Niflheim, the Alopex Expanse was proclaimed as the Alopex as a species had come so far in their history. From simple tribes, to warring houses, to a unified planet, a species joined for a cause, now their entire system is under the same banner. What lies in the future is that the space beyond – the Etherium, and its vast expanse is theirs for the taking, to explore and do as they see fit. And thus, the Alopex set forth in all directions as the Flag of the Alopex Expanse made its way across the Etherium.

Navigating by the stars and using their Home Star of Alopex as the center of their maps, the Alopex charting out the Etherium and explored its vastness. Islands were settled, colonists brought over from Niflheim to populate. As the Expanse grew in size, so did the Alopex species. Ships dotted the Etherium as routes were made between Niflheim and the settlements beyond, and the adventurous spirits would sail forth into the unknown Etherium, carrying forth the banner of the Alopex to bring glory to their species.

It was truly a Golden Age of Exploration.

An Age now long forgotten…

The Light of Alopex Besieged (700 BTP-Present)
The Golden Age was followed by an Age of Strife.

As expected, the further one gets from the Light of Alopex, the shining beacon of the Heart of Niflheim – the further one is able to get corrupted. From the various traders and routes that dot the Expanse emerged Pirates. The earliest ones were individuals that had disputes with other merchants, but eventually they grew to become formidable forces that threatened entire sectors due to their size and organization.

Against the Pirates was the Alopex Navy which was tasked to keep order against these criminal elements of the Alopex society. Policing the vastness of the Expanse was taxing and the elimination of Piracy came by in a slow and painful process. Some would even say that the “War on Piracy” has not even been won as there could always be a Pirate, perhaps even a holdout somewhere within the Alopex Expanse that the Alopex Navy has not yet discovered or destroyed yet.

But then there was the greater threat that came from beyond…

Curiosity… often leads to the unwanted being discovered.

The Alopex knew from the ancient times that they were not alone. But, in their search through the stars they had forgotten those dark times. But when the first ships began disappearing – followed soon by settlements going quiet, did it bring concern to the authorities on Niflheim. Then it was discovered that the Alopex Expanse was surrounded by alien species of ravenous predators – all that saw the Alopex as easy prey…

From then on, the borders of the Expanse waxed and waned, as the Alopex species were locked in a war against predatory aliens that had only the instinct to devour them. For thousands that would be born, thousands would be consumed by the aliens. For each system won, another system would be lost. It was an unending cycle of conflict. A total war as the Alopex as a whole were engaged in conflict against these predators. During good times, would the Alopex push and make gains against the predators. While during the darkest times, would the Alopex suffer grievous losses and sacrifice great swaths of territory to the enemy. Only to be taken, then lost again.

Even more disturbing was the discovery made by the Athugun (Survey Corps) that braved the unknown, trespassing through the jaws of the aliens – they discovered that a great anomaly in the Etherium comprising of environmental and natural hazards have formed a sort of “barrier” that prevented the Alopex from exploring further than what they have known. To them, this was the edge of their universe, the limits of the Etherium. That they are trapped here with these predatory aliens in an eternal war for struggle.

And so, a grimdark fate it seemed the Alopex Expanse was set for. But in defiance, the Light of Alopex shone brighter than ever in all of this darkness. The Alopex themselves, even if surrounded by such beasts will fight on. For generations that come and go, in a struggle throughout centuries – the Alopex fight on to hold onto their right to exist. As had their ancient ancestors so long ago on Niflheim, here to this very day, the modern Alopex fights on.

And Ever We Fight On…

Races
The Alopex are a species of arctic foxes from the icy world of Niflheim. They are known to be generally tall, with the height range being from 5’7” to 6’7”. Their fur colour is all white. Hair colour is white although there are instances of hair dyes being used for certain ceremonies or individuals to provide a different colour. The Alopex are regarded to be anthropomorphic.
 * Alopex

Economy
The Alopex Economy is isolated from the greater Etherium. However, it is notable that within the Alopex Expanse, there is diversity with regions regulated to specific areas and they rely on one another for survival. The primary or core center of the Expanse which would be the Alopex Home System – including the Alopex Homeworld of Niflheim would rely heavily on manufacturing and production of military technologies and other advanced technological goods. However, as one goes beyond the Light of Alopex and further outwards, does the economy take a more agricultural route as farming and the raising of livestock becomes the focus to provide the food for the Expanse. Regular trade between the regions of the Expanse helps keep the economy running as a whole. Although there have been calls for the balancing of roles rather than focusing of certain tasks into specific regions – conservative elements have upheld the status quo for now.

Exports

 * Manufactured Goods
 * High-tech Goods (Such as screens, hologram items like hololockets, computers for ships, electrical components of ships)
 * Limited Weapons
 * Processed ores and minerals

Imports

 * Food (particularly, meats)

Military
The Alopex military consists of five branches: the Alopex Army, the Alopex Navy, the Alopex Frontier Guard, the Athugun, and the Agi. The military has been regarded with high esteem and as a core part of the Alopex species – having been their sword and shield for centuries. Through numerous engagements with pirates and predatory aliens the military has experience. However, it has yet to truly fight a conflict with what the Alopex consider to be a “sentient” species. The Alopex military utilizes special energy-based weapons technology inspired by their crystals and it is featured predominately in their arsenal. With an everlasting state of war, the military finds itself always on duty and stretched to its limit.

However, there lies a dark history within the Alopex military. An intense rivalry exists between the Alopex Army and the Alopex Navy. Each one accuses the other of stealing their budget and resources. Along with that, the glory or significance of one is downplayed by the other. In recent times, the intensity of the rivalry has become so serious that young radical officers from both branches have conducted assassinations on senior staff of the opposing branch – prompting retaliation in a bloody feud that is matched only by that of the Seven Alopex Noble Houses.

Alopex Army
The Alopex Army is the land branch of the Alopex military. It deals with combat and operations on planets, islands in the Etherium, and occasionally serves as a complement of combat fighters and marines onboard naval vessels. The Alopex Army can trace its origins back to the Reforms put in place by Emperor Arngeir Ernmund. With standardized drill and conscription system put into place was the foundation of the modern Alopex Army set. And later on, through trial and error, would it be improved to meet the demands of coming ages. The Alopex Army professes a fine quality and standard that it seeks to keep – especially when it is in competition with other service branches that threaten its reputation. But regardless of interservice rivalry, the Alopex Army is still a formidable foe on the battlefield and utilizes a great deal of advanced weaponry and tactics that is unique to them. It should also be known that in the Alopex Army, the rigid hierarchy of society also is evident in the army. This means that usually one has to be of noble birth, or considerable skill to progress through the ranks of the army, with most of the upper commissioned officers being from the upper classes and nobility.

Alopex Navy
The Alopex Navy is the naval branch of the Alopex military. It deals with combat and operations in the Etherium, atmosphere of planets, and also to enforce the maritime borders of the Alopex Expanse. The Alopex Navy can trace its origins back to the Lunar Rebellion with the need for a proper Navy was realized due to the difficulty of dealing with an insurrection on Heimdall, Niflheim’s moon. Following the Lunar Rebellion, the Alopex Navy has grown with the Expanse – for where there are Pirates there must be the Navy there to counter them. And especially now in these times with the struggle against predatory aliens is the Alopex Navy at the forefront of the fight, being known as the “Shield” of the Expanse. The ship designs of the Alopex Navy are known for a trimaran design which allow for graceful movement and a sleek look. Predominately equipped with energy-based weapons inspired by their crystals, Alopex Star Runners (ASR) are known for firing volley after volley of lancers or laser bolts at enemies. The Alopex Navy also has fine standards to keep and maintain, as they fear funding being diverted to their rivals, and even then – they must not fail in their duty to defend the Expanse.

Alopex Frontier Guard
The Alopex Frontier Guard is regarded as the first-responders or the Border Police of the Alopex Expanse. Its sole purpose is to defend and be the garrison along the borders of the Alopex Expanse where it works with the Athugun and Alopex Navy – although the later has attempted many times to incorporate the Alopex Frontier Guard into its ranks. Utilizing the same ships and equipment as the Alopex Navy, the Alopex Frontier Guard is the very first line of defense that the Expanse can put up should an external invasion come. Vastly smaller than the Alopex Navy as its only task is for the borders, it still has its role and independence. Criticism has arisen however, that the personnel consisting of the Alopex Frontier Guard are lesser quality than those of the Alopex Army or Alopex Navy, and even then, for those that are experienced – are merely reservists of the Alopex Navy having leisure time here in the Frontier Guard.

Athugun
The Athugun or Survey Corps as they are known, are a specialized branch of the Alopex military that is tasked to go beyond the borders of the Alopex Expanse on expeditions. These expeditions are usually to explore, survey, and chart the unknown Etherium beyond what the Alopex Expanse knows – but these expeditions are often times full of peril as it is in hostile territory, and even then, the natural hazards and anomalies in the Etherium prevent the Athugun from discovering the wider Etherium and community out there. A unique feature of the Athugun is that its members consist of veteran personnel from both the Alopex Army and Alopex Navy – and as such it has an elite cadre and history to its name, even able to extinguish the interservice rivalry between individuals. The Athugun is known to engage in combat with hostiles beyond the borders of the Alopex Expanse, and if encountering anything new – reports it back to the Alopex Frontier Guard and Alopex Navy to be aware of the coming danger.

Agi
The Agi is the Secret Police of the Alopex Expanse. Established after the Golden Age, the Agi is tasked with many herculean tasks that range from the surveillance of the Alopex society, rooting out of corruptive elements or deviant behavior, alien infiltration or intrusion, internal policing of the military branches, to even – dare say, keeping the Seven Alopex Noble Houses in line. Known to be ruthless in their duty and also brutal, the Agi are feared by just about everyone. The Agi are rumored to use methods such as blackmail, torture, and even death in order to interrogate or eliminate their targets. Acting under the direct authority of the Emperor, the Agi are immune and outside the regular Alopex hierarchy. However, in the interregnum when there is no Emperor or Empress – the Agi can themselves, be a powerful political force for they hold the secrets of so many people. And secrets… are very valuable… And thus, is how the word Agi literally means “Fear” in the Alopex language.

Religion
The Religion of the Alopex Expanse is known as the "Alopex Religion" which consists of numerous Gods and Goddesses. Each God and Goddess is attributed with a specific trait or personality, with notable examples being the God of War, Goddess of Fertility, God of Justice, etc. Another aspect of the Alopex Religion would be ancestral veneration - the honoring and respect of one's ancestors, especially those of great legacies. The Belief in the Crystals - the beating heart and soul of every Alopex. The "Holy Trinity" in the Alopex Religion which is the "Authority, Faith, and Purity" - the three characteristics are key to understanding the Alopex faith.

Authority
Authority stands for one's obedience to superiors, ancestors, or the state. The Authority part of the Alopex Religion helps keep the common Alopex in line, as if one obeys one's masters, what dissident thought is there? Authority must and shall be respected. This only reinforces the already rigid, stratified social hierarchy that the Alopex practice.

Faith
Faith stands for the belief and faith in the Alopex Religion, such as the Gods and Goddesses that make up the religion. Faith of the Crystals, of one’s power. Nowadays, it is only used to further strengthen the bond between Church and State, where although the Alopex Expanse is not theocratic, the Alopex Religion serves its role as a good element of unity to help the Alopex remain strong and in cohesion with one another.

Purity
Purity stands for one's bloodline. In the context of history, purity is an important factor that creates the xenophobia of most Alopex today, as the Alopex sought to keep themselves "pure" and not interbreed strangers. In today's society, the Alopex take their purity with great pride, and interspecies relationships are considered a banned taboo in the Alopex mind. As such, the concept of purity is a major foundation for the xenophobia that is common in today's Alopex.

Foreign Relations
As of 7 ATP, the Alopex Expanse has yet to be discovered by the rest of the Etherium. As such, it does not have any foreign relations.