Orion

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Imperial Orion of the Greater Imperial Union
Flag of Orion
Motto		Ave Imperii
Common Name		Orion Empire
Anthem		https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kNm66IdKDNY
Map of the Orion Empire
Demonym		Orinian
Official languages		Orinian, Vocavian
Currency		Imperial Credits
Politics
Capital		Primus Orania
Government		Constitutional Monarchy/Imperial Federation
Foundation		2115
Emperor		Horatius Antares
Preceded by		Vocavium, Halcyon, Hermia, SFRK, Gallante, Hartfordia, Phoenia, Nuvastia, Cloweish Empire, Kurtzland
Demography
Ethnicities		Mechani, Vocavian, Eurekan, Hermish, Kalban, Blytheian
Area		Caledon, Kafrica, Kolus, Veiid, Firesvar, Doren km²

The Orion Empire, commonly referred to as Orion, is a vast imperial nation encompassing the continents of Veiid, Doren, Kafrica, and Caledon. It stands as one of the three constituent nations within the Imperial Union, serving as the seat of its capital. Despite its relatively recent emergence on the world stage, the empire has established itself as a prosperous and influential power, boasting access to all major oceans on the planet Kerbin. Additionally, the Orion Empire extends its influence beyond the confines of its terrestrial borders, maintaining control over several space colonies. Notably, the empire exercises dominion over celestial bodies such as Minmus, Duna, and Ike, further solidifying its presence and reach in outer space.

Government

Structure

The governmental system of the Orion Empire was continued in the Imperial Union with a few additions. The central government of the Empire is a parliamentary monarchy, comprised of the Monarch who is also the head of state, as well as an imperial parliament.

Imperial Parliament

Each member of the Imperial Union and any of their respective dominions are given a select number of representatives in proportion with their populations to comprise a total of 600 seats. Each member of parliament is selected via election in their constituency. Before entering any local election, potential parliament members are required to take standardized exams in logic and mathematics which will be broadcast to the voters before elections.

The leader of the party who holds the most seats holds the position of Prime Minster who is the economic and everyday political leader of the empire. There are no term limits on this position but parties can remove their leader at any time at their will.

Voting

Citizens of the empire are not guaranteed voting rights upon entering adulthood. To receive the right to vote, citizens must pass a standardized exam on the sciences, languages and logic. If this score is not met, the only way to receive the right to vote is via 1 year of service in the imperial military. Anyone contributing in the civilian sector or serving in the military is also eligible to an additional half vote.

The Emperor

The emperor was initially elected at the formation of the country in 2115. However, now, in order to ensure a stable line of succession, it is the emperor's duty to choose a successor, whether it be offspring or otherwise.

The emperor is the supreme commander of the armed forces and can unilaterally declare war, but only has an advisory role on legislation in parliament to do with the economy or everyday governance with the exception of colonies which can be directly administered.

In case an emperor does not choose an heir, or if the emperor is forced out of office, an empire wide election will take place to select a new emperor.

An emperor can be evicted out of office through a vote of no confidence in the parliament reaching 65% where a referendum will then take place.

Leaders

	Emperor	Dynasty	Prime Minister	Term
1st	Antonius Bonaparte	Bonaparte		2115-2135
2nd	Horatius Antares	Antares		2135-2155
3rd		Antares		2155-2200

Provinces/Geography

In order to effectively govern the vast expanse of territories within the Empire, a classification system has been established, dividing the Orion territories into two categories: dominions and colonies.

Dominions are allocated representation in the Imperial parliament in proportion to their respective populations. They enjoy a greater degree of autonomy and possess their own regional parliament, enabling them to make decisions independently. Additionally, Orion Dominions maintain dedicated regional defense forces to ensure their security.

Conversely, colonies are governed directly from Primus Orania without representation in the parliamentary body. These territories are administered by governors appointed by the emperor, who oversee local affairs. The defense of colonial territories is entrusted to the primary Orion/Imperial military.

This classification system aims to facilitate efficient governance and tailored administration throughout the Orion territories, ensuring the overall well-being and security of the Empire as a whole.

Primus Orania

Soltem, commonly referred to as the capital of the Empire, is situated on the eponymous island. The city represents the primary urban center within the Empire, boasting the largest population and serving as a hub for various activities. Due to its geographical location and specific characteristics, Soltem heavily relies on imports to meet its needs. Notably, it accommodates the imperial palace, which serves as the residence of the emperor.

Imperial Palace of the Emperor on Soltem

Orion Vocavium

Vocavium is a region located on the continent of Kafrica, known for its diverse economy, robust infrastructure, and unique geography. The region experienced a tumultuous history, including a devastating bombing and subsequent occupation, followed by a period of reconstruction and growth under the Orion Empire.

The economy of Vocavium is characterized by a diverse range of industries. The region boasts a significant manufacturing capacity, particularly in shipbuilding, which has been a major contributor to its economic prosperity. Vocavium's shipbuilding industry is highly regarded throughout the Orion Empire and has played a crucial role in the expansion of the empire's naval power. Additionally, Vocavium is home to thriving sectors such as agriculture, mining, and technology, contributing to its overall economic strength.

Colonial flag of Orion Vocavium

Geographically, Vocavium possesses diverse landscapes. The region is characterized by a picturesque peninsula, offering a combination of coastal areas, fertile plains, and mountainous terrains to the north. The strategic coastal location has facilitated trade and maritime activities, contributing to Vocavium's economic growth.

Vocavium was recently granted dominion status in the Orion Empire and Imperial Union as of 2148, granting it further autonomy and ability to grow on its own.

Overall, Vocavium's economy, infrastructure, and geography have experienced significant transformations throughout its history. From facing adversity and occupation to rebuilding and growth under the Orion Empire, Vocavium has emerged as a prosperous region with a diversified economy, well-developed infrastructure, and a diverse natural landscape, making it a vital contributor to the broader Orion Empire's prosperity and strength.

Orion Canstana

Orion Canstana, one of the dominion territories within the expansive Orion Empire, occupies a significant position in the empire's political and economic landscape. Its regional capital, Canstantia, stands as the fourth-largest city in the empire. Situated in the Baskay region of Kerbin, Canstana enjoys a strategic location bordering both the Baskay and Wakir Oceans, lending immense importance to its role within the empire.

Colonial flag of Orion Canstana

In the realm of economics, Orion Canstana has faced considerable challenges during its history, particularly under the rule of its former governments, Hermia and Gallante. However, with the unification of the region through the Hermia, Gallante, and SFRK wars, Orion Canstana has witnessed a remarkable transformation, experiencing newfound prosperity. The territory now serves as the primary hub for land vehicle factories and foundries within the Orion Empire, contributing significantly to its economic strength. The presence of several natural ports further enhances its potential for collaboration with allied nations, fostering trade and diplomatic ties.

The strategic significance of Orion Canstana's location and its thriving economic sectors have solidified its position within the Orion Empire. The territory's growth and development have not only bolstered its own prosperity but also contributed to the overall strength and stability of the empire.

Orion Bastio-Rhudbeal

Orion Bastio-Rhudbeal, an esteemed colony of the Orion Empire, holds a significant historical standing on the continent of Kerbin. Comprising two distinct islands, Bastio and Rhudbeal, this colony has contributed to the empire's prominence for almost a century. Bastio, situated near the Nuvastian shore, offers a tropical climate, boasting stunning beaches and renowned sunsets. In contrast, Rhudbeal lies further east in the Tau Sea, positioned south of Phoenia.

Colonial flag of Orion Bastio-Rhudbeal

Bastio houses the third-largest city within the Orion Empire, serving as a densely populated financial center. This vibrant hub acts as a vital trade gateway between the empire and the continent of Kolus. It plays a pivotal role in fostering economic exchanges with crucial allies such as the Zokesian Confederation and the Republic of Aontas (formerly Phoenia). The city's bustling commercial activity bolsters the Orion Empire's economic prowess.

On the other hand, Rhudbeal, the second island forming the colony, has a strong military focus. It accommodates a sizable Orion air force base and naval port, serving as a pivotal waypoint for refueling ships and aircraft traveling from the empire's Kafrican holdings to the capital of Orion or into the Wakir Sea. While historically shared with the nation of Phoenia, the status of this agreement is presently uncertain due to the restructuring of the Phoenian government.

The strategic location and distinct characteristics of Orion Bastio-Rhudbeal have contributed to its importance within the Orion Empire. The colony's financial hub and trade connectivity, coupled with its military significance and infrastructural assets, have solidified its role in the empire.

Orion East Hook Island

Orion East Hook Island, situated on the west side of the Baskay Sea from Canstana, stands as one of the most remote regions within the Orion Empire. It is one of two hook islands forming a strait that grants access to the rest of the Baskay Sea, endowing it with considerable strategic importance. Located in the southern hemisphere, the island experiences a temperate climate.

Colonial flag of Orion East Hook Island

Notably, Orion East Hook Island features a substantial naval base, serving as a crucial operational hub for the Imperial Royal Navy's excursions throughout the Baskay Sea. The naval presence solidifies the island's significance in maintaining maritime security and asserting the empire's influence in the region.

However, East Hook Island's historical importance goes beyond its military and strategic value. It was once the site of the United Kerbal Nations (UKN), a multinational organization composed of most nations on Kerbin. The UKN aimed to promote peace and prosperity for all kerbalkind. As a result, a significant portion of the island was declared an international zone, hosting numerous delegations during important meetings and events. This international presence fostered a rich and diverse culture on the island, encompassing various aspects such as music, religion, food, and language.

The unique combination of strategic significance, a thriving naval base, and the rich cultural heritage derived from its international role in the UKN has shaped Orion East Hook Island into a distinct and noteworthy part of the Orion Empire.

Orion Hartfordia (ceded to Atreus 2160)

Orion Hartfordia was a small territory situated on the continent of Veiid, facing the Tau Sea and sharing a border with the nation of Belka. Known for its tropical climate, the region became a favored destination for affluent vacationers within the Orion Empire, boasting some of the most sought-after holiday spots.

Initially, the territory had a sparse population due to its recent colonization. However, with the rapid growth of the tourism industry, Hartfordia flourished, capitalizing on its stunning summer weather and attracting visitors from across the Empire. While not possessing significant strategic importance owing to its proximity to Vocavium, Hartfordia was highly esteemed for its natural beauty and captivating landscapes.

During a period of economic instability that plagued the Orion Empire in the mid to late 2100s, a momentous decision was made to formally cede Hartfordia to Atreus. This act symbolized a gesture of goodwill, peace, and cooperation between the two great nations, solidifying their commitment to fostering positive relations amidst challenging times.

Orion Svarskia (Under occupation by Newest Grestin)

Flag of Orion Svarskia

Orion Svarskia was a former colony located on the southwestern peninsula of Kafrica and was the most acquisition of the empire. Acquired through Operation Green Dagger following the dissolution of New Grestin, it faced unique challenges due to a rebellious local population. The colony's restrictive travel laws were imposed to prevent the exposure of occupation methods employed by the imperial government.

With Port Jeb, the former capital city of New Grestin, situated within its borders, Orion Svarskia had a substantial population. The colonial forces implemented re-education centers in an effort to foster a more cooperative attitude among the Grestinian populace, envisioning their eventual contribution to the empire's economy and military. However, the empire faced internal turmoil during this period, grappling with economic and political issues that limited the allocation of sufficient funding and military resources to secure the region effectively. The Strelkan minorities in the region were however given back their full rights as was the reason for the war in the first place.

Regrettably, despite Orion's intentions, the unstable circumstances within the empire allowed the reformed Grestinian government in the North Grestin Confederacy to regain control of the territory. The lack of robust support hindered the imperial forces' ability to retain their hold on Svarskia, ultimately resulting in its reversion to Grestinian control.

Orion Space Colonies

The Empire, due to its beginnings as a space empire has continued to hold onto space assets for the importation of resources, research and development, as well as keeping peace.

Economy and Infrastructure

General Economy

The economy of the Orion Empire is characterized by a strong emphasis on advanced engineering and technological development. Since its inception, the nation has been at the forefront of space warship design, a position it continues to maintain to this day. Orion-designed vessels are highly sought after, with numerous nations on Kerbin purchasing them. This success in the space industry can be attributed to the Empire's capitalistic nature and its significant investments in research and development.

In addition to space warships, the Orion Empire has made substantial contributions to the field of aircraft design. Over the years, the Empire has designed, built, and deployed a diverse range of aircraft, which have been sold to various nations around the world. The partnership and eventual union with Vocavium further bolstered the Empire's aerospace capabilities, as it inherited the renowned shipbuilding prowess of the Vocavians. Vocavian designs remain highly popular on Kerbin, generating substantial wealth for the Empire.

While the Orion Empire prioritizes engineering and technological advancements, its social welfare programs receive relatively less funding compared to other nations. Instead, the Empire places great importance on education and preparing its citizens for entry into the workforce. All education in the Empire is free and funded through taxes. However, the education system is highly stratified, with top-tier institutions being highly selective and catering to the brightest minds in the Empire. These institutions provide a platform for exceptional students to come together, learn from experienced professors, and contribute to the Empire's technological progress.

The entrepreneurial and innovation-driven culture of the Orion Empire, coupled with its strong focus on engineering and technological development, has propelled its economy to great heights. The Empire's expertise in space and aircraft design, coupled with its partnership with Vocavium, has created a thriving manufacturing sector. The sale of Orion-designed vessels and Vocavian-inspired shipbuilding has become a major source of wealth for the Empire. Through strategic investments in research and development, coupled with selective education and workforce preparation, the Orion Empire continues to be a global leader in technological innovation and engineering excellence.

Banking System

The banking system of the Orion Empire is fully integrated with the Imperial Union and is a crucial component of its robust economy. Aligned with the IU's capitalistic nature, the banking sector plays a vital role in facilitating financial transactions, investments, and economic growth. The Empire's banking institutions are known for their stability, efficiency, and ability to keep the nation running throughout any crisis. The nation of Westray, a core member of the Imperial Union in particular has driven the IU to become one of Kerbin's wealthiest nations due to a smart combination of weapons sales and smart investments after major crises in the rest of the IU.

Due to the Empire's focus on advanced engineering and technological development, the banking system incorporates cutting-edge technologies to enhance efficiency and security. Online banking, mobile banking, and digital payment solutions are widely available, allowing individuals and businesses to conveniently manage their financial affairs.

The banking system of the Orion Empire, while generally renowned for its stability and efficiency, has not been entirely immune to occasional instances of corruption. Despite the Empire's stringent regulations and oversight, there have been sporadic cases of illicit activities or government meddling.

Efforts to combat corruption within the banking sector have been undertaken by the Empire's regulatory bodies. Stricter monitoring, enhanced transparency, and rigorous audits have been implemented to detect and prevent such illicit activities. Additionally, the Empire has established specialized anti-corruption agencies to investigate allegations and prosecute individuals involved in corrupt practices.

Despite these challenges, the majority of banks in the Orion Empire continue to uphold high standards of professionalism and operate with integrity. The Empire's banking system remains a crucial pillar of its economy, facilitating economic growth, investment, and financial stability. The authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to curb corruption and safeguard the integrity of the banking system, ensuring a fair and transparent financial environment for the Empire's citizens and businesses.

Infrastructure

The infrastructure and transportation network of the Orion Empire, a vast global sea-based empire, is a testament to its commitment to efficient connectivity and trade. The Orion Empire has invested significantly in the development of its infrastructure to facilitate smooth movement of goods, people, and information across its vast territories.

The Empire boasts a comprehensive transportation system, comprising modern seaports, well-maintained road networks, and an extensive network of maritime routes across the Tau, Wakir, Baskay, and Kolus seas. Seaports play a pivotal role in facilitating international trade, serving as vital hubs for the movement of goods between the Empire's colonies and trading partners across Kerbin.

The road networks within the Empire are designed to connect major cities, industrial centers, and agricultural regions. Well-paved highways and roads traverse the diverse landscapes of the Empire, enabling seamless transportation of goods and passengers. Additionally, the Empire has made substantial investments in the development of modern bridges and tunnels, overcoming geographical barriers and ensuring connectivity even in challenging terrains such as the mountains of Vocavium or forests of Canstana

Maritime transportation remains a cornerstone of the Orion Empire's global reach. The Empire boasts a formidable fleet of merchant ships, cruise liners, and naval vessels, which ply the seas to maintain trade routes, project power, and provide transportation services. The Empire's maritime infrastructure includes strategically located naval bases and refueling stations, serving as crucial waypoints for ships and aircraft en route to various destinations.

In summary, the infrastructure and transportation network of the Orion Empire exemplify its ambition to create a modern maritime empire. With its robust seaports, well-connected road networks, and a strong fleet of ships, the Empire ensures seamless connectivity between its colonies and trading partners. Through continuous investments in cutting-edge technologies, the Orion Empire remains at the forefront of transportation innovation, further solidifying its status as a global sea-based power.

Ancient History (1100-2100)

Fidelis

Located north of present day Mechani

demarcated by a prominent western river and the Kolus Sea to the east. Although somewhat isolated, the nation maintained limited external communication. The Fidelsian people held strong beliefs in celestial bodies, regarding the moon and stars as symbolic representations of their deities.

Over time, a division emerged within the nation, separating the Eastern and Western populations. The eastern region, with its capital city and religious centers, possessed a higher population concentration and closer ties to the central government. In contrast, the western territories, centered around the river, developed a distinct identity with limited interaction with the seat of power. This growing division became increasingly apparent.

In the west, a group of intellectuals deviated from the prevalent religious doctrine and delved into the realms of mathematics, physics, and astronomy. Their endeavors, however, remained concealed due to their contradiction with the state ideology. As years passed, more individuals in the western territories embraced these scientific pursuits.

In the year 1900 KP2 time, the eastern territories discovered the clandestine intellectual activities in the west, leading to the outbreak of the first Fidelsian civil war. Recognizing the military superiority of the east, the western territories adopted guerrilla tactics in the highlands and mountains while concentrating their population near the city of Llundain, located on the western frontier. The conflict endured for several years, with the east making advancements at the cost of substantial casualties. Eventually, a ceasefire was declared, prompting the reunification of the nation under a single flag to prevent further bloodshed. However, profound ideological differences persisted and continued to widen.

The western territories took the lead in industrialization, benefiting from their higher levels of education in practical disciplines such as engineering, physics, and mathematics. Conversely, the eastern region faced challenges in industrial advancement, experiencing frequent accidents and relying on intermittent support from the west. The western territories also achieved notable milestones in aviation and rocketry, including the development of powered aircraft and the launch of suborbital rockets.

In the east, the theocratic leadership confronted a declining grip on power as the populace became increasingly educated and inquisitive, challenging the divine authority of the "Faithful One." In response, the eastern authorities escalated measures to suppress civil liberties, employing biased courts and expedited trials to persecute dissenters on charges of treason, resulting in imprisonment or execution.

Fidelis/Orion Civil War

By the 2060s, the west, now known as Orion, decided to make a final stand against the oppressive east. Knowing they could not win, the leaders of Orion orchestrated a mass escape to the distant moon Minmus using hidden launch sites and vehicles constructed over several decades. As the Fidelsian forces invaded Orion, the civilian population boarded rockets, while the remaining military personnel held the line.

Over a million people successfully migrated to Minmus, where they established the Orion Space Federation (OSF) and raised their new flag. The conflict officially ended in 2062, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Orion's history.

Map of Orion Territory on Minmus