Creature:Escogehoc

The Escogehoc are a species that can be found in certain areas of the galaxy. The originate from the world of Phoenix, and spread through several star systems.

Evolution
The Escogehoc were believed to have started as a small micro-organism in a tide pool. They eventually evolved into a land animal, growing wings. They were rather brutal carnivores, taking many species to extinction before they even became sentient. They later developed small technologies such as fire, and grew into a tribal stage. When they discovered other tribes, their solution was simple. Exterminate them. After taking captured technologies, they reverse-engineered them for their own usage, and after several more decades, went from a tribal stage to a more civilized stage. During that time, divisions in their tribe had appeared and they split up into multiple cities. The Escogehoc blue nation prevailed, with their infamous tactic of all out attacks on hostile cities, sending all forces to take a city, and then churning out more vehicles from their captured city to hit other cities. They soon wiped out all hostile nations.

It was shortly after the World War that a scientist by the name of Yarbala Iopata High Scientist invented the spaceship, allowing the Escogehoc to leave their homeworld for the first time. Several missions to Kawme, the moon of Phoenix were made. After two years, they made an expedition to Wilkin, the neighboring planet. It was there that Nezaku Hajeeda Starmaster came under attack by several drones, which believed that he was a member of the Grox and attempted to attack him. Nezaku fled, realizing that he was outgunned and outnumbered. However, he captured an interstellar drive, and Jalarka Pezatu Grand Scientist lead a team to reverse engineer the drive. He eventually succeeded, and the Escogehoc Empire was formed.

Culture
The Escogehoc are a very war-loving species. The military controls large amount of people, and is the largest employer in the Escogehoc Empire. Many industries are indirectly related to the military as well. The Escogehoc are mostly atheist, although there are some who are religious.

Naming
The naming system is very simple. Names consist of three parts. Given Name, Family Name and Rank. With the exception of newborns, all Escogehoc have ranks. The given name goes first, and then the family name, and last the rank. An example would be Yarbala Iopata High Scientist. Yarbala would the the given name, Iopata would be the family name and High Scientist would be the Rank.

Military
The military plays a large factor in the lives for many members of the Escogehoc race. Five years of service are mandatory for the Escogehoc, from when an Escogehoc reaches the age of twenty to twenty five. They are then paid for the service, and then encouraged to enlist in the military again in more prestigious roles.

The military is divided into several branches, including but not limited to the standard infantry, special forces, space navy, air force, sea navy, research and development and command.

In the five years of mandatory service, every soldier can select which branch they wish to join, with the exception of the special forces. After that, should they chose to continue serving in the military (which is a very popular choice), they can chose another branch, or enter officer training for the standard infantry.

However, many units require more than five years of combat experience, and therefore many chose to remain in the Escogehoc Army so they can continue to gain combat experience so they can join the unit they desire.

The branches are:

Escogehoc Army
The infantry is the largest branch, consisting of every person from the age of 20 to 25 and their commanding officers. They are used for conventional warfare, which includes capture of enemy worlds, and defense of their own. They are commanded by the officers (returning members), and are frequently deployed alongside the Special Operations branch.

Weapons
Model 789 Standard Infantry Rifle (M789 SIR)

The M789 SIR is a highly versatile weapon, capable of firing in fully automatic and semi automatic. It also accepts two types of ammunition-projectiles, and lasers. While lasers are more commonly used, projectiles are still used rarely. It has an effective range of four kilometers with the lasers and one kilometer with the projectiles.

Model 189 Anti-Armour Tube (M189 AAT)

The M189 AAT is meant for anti-armor purposes. It fires a single anti-matter tipped missile at it's target. The missile then explodes on impact, and destroys it's victim. It has an effective range of eight kilometers.

Model 075 Plasma Projector (M75 PP)

The M75 PP fires a stream of plasma. Due to the gaseous nature of plasma, it is used to flush out hiding opponents. If the plasma makes contact, it burns the enemy alive in a matter of seconds. Often used as terror weapons, it has been criticized by more pacifist nations.

Equipment
Model 048 Powered Armor (M48 PA)

The M48 PA is the standard armor for members of the Escogehoc Army. Employing an energy shield, it can deflect a limited number of attacks before giving it. Tests has shown that it can take ten seconds of sustained laser fire by the M789 SIR and fifteen seconds of bullet fire.

Model 023 Tactical Goggles (M23 TG)

The M23 TG are worn by soldiers to give them increased vision. It allows them to see hiding enemies with the assistance of a thermal sensor, and X-ray vision. It allows soldiers to literally see for miles, and spot approaching threats with ease.

Special Forces
The Special Forces of the Escogehoc Empire are responsible for all the roles the Escogehoc Army does, in addition to discreet reconnaissance, Sabotage and deliver effects disproportionately to their size. They are also sometimes deployed in large numbers as an shock and awe force.

They operate in a similar fashion to the Escogehoc Army most of the time, calling upon other branches if support is needed. Their numbers are smaller than those of the Escogehoc Army, although superior skill as a result of greater combat experience.

The Special Forces are divided into several smaller units, each having different specialties and required skills.

Headhunters
The Headhunters are the assassins of the Escogehoc Empire. They are commonly used to kill high-ranking enemy officials to demoralize the enemy. This is one of the most prestigious units in the entire armed forces, requiring at least ten years of experience in the Escogehoc Army, four years of experience in another special operations unit and four years of experience in any other combat branch

Their weapons greatly differ for each individual mission, although here are the ones most seen.

Model 4 Assassination Bug (M4 AB)

The M4 AB is a a mechanized drone that is used for assassinations. About the size of a small insect, this bug is given the DNA signature of an individual and will hunt this individual down, as long as it is in the vicinity. After locating it's target, a deadly dose of poison is injected into the victim. The type of poison can be selected so it kills instantly or kills after a certain period of time.

Model 031 InterStellar Anti-Matter Missile (Stealth Variant) (M31 ISAM(S))

The M31 ISAM(S) is a variant of the standard M31 ISAM. It gives of almost unnoticeable amounts of heat, and is capable of camouflage, and can change into any color to match it's surroundings. It is frequently disguised as a comet, asteroid or any other similar celestial object. Like the standard version, it is launched from a nearby solar system within three parsecs, the M31 ISAM(S) then directs it to a set of pre-loaded coordinates, then explodes on impact.

It is often used to target individuals on space shuttles, like those taking intersolar trips. It is not used on a planet very much, because it is much easier to locate that way.

Space Navy
The Escogehoc Space Navy (ESN) is the second largest and one of the most important branches of the military. Using a large types of vehicles, their roles include transportation of ground forces, orbital bombardment, civilian and cargo escort and ship-to-ship combat.

Dagger-class Fighter
The Dagger-class Fighter is the standard, most common fighter seen in the Escogehoc Space Navy. It has comparatively shields, are used to escort larger vessels, giving them additional firepower. It is Carried in large amount by carriers, although also carried in small amounts by cruisers, frigates and dreadnaughts.

It was first produced in 2298 along with the Broadsword-class Frigate, and did not have a interstellar drive, instead relying on the larger frigate to ferry it around to it's battles.

It' weapons are:
 * 1 Model 231 Light Laser: Equivalent to the mini laser used to measure laser strength of various empires. This weapon is used for precision bombard of key locations and/or individuals.
 * 1 Model 352 Medium Anti-matter Torpedo: Equivalent in power to the standard Proton Missile used to measure ship-to-ship missile strength of various empires. This weapon is used almost exclusively in ship-to-ship combat. Fires a single torpedo at enemy ships, which explodes on impact.

Gladius-class Heavy Fighter
The Gladius-class Heavy Fighter is a heavy fighter, used just like the Dagger class, although it is larger, has more shielding, less agile and has more firepower.

It was first produced in 2230, when pilots of the Dagger-class requested a fighter with more firepower so they could do more damage against enemy capital ships.

It's weapons are:
 * 2 Model 232 Medium Lasers: Equivalent to the standard laser used to measure laser strength of various empires. This weapon is used for precision bombard of key locations and/or individuals.
 * 1 Model 352 Medium Anti-matter Torpedo: Equivalent in power to the standard Proton Missile used to measure ship-to-ship missile strength of various empires. This weapon is used almost exclusively in ship-to-ship combat. Fires a single torpedo at enemy ships, which explodes on impact.

Broadsword-class Frigate
"The start of a new era."

- Pokada Heejaka Half Starlord The Broadsword-class Frigate is the type of ship most commonly seen in the Escogehoc Space Navy. It has average weapons and average shielding. Often used to harass flanks of enemies while heavier ships fire on each other.

It first rolled out of the shipyards in 2298, and was the second ship class to be have an interstellar drive. While designed for combat, it initially saw action escorting research vessels. Since then, it has gone under several minor refits (namely weapon and shielding upgrades), although nothing to require a change in class. Currently, it is equipped with the following.
 * 1 Model 232 Medium Laser: Equivalent to the standard laser used to measure laser strength of various empires. This weapon is used for precision bombard of key locations and/or individuals.
 * 1 Model 352 Medium Anti-matter Torpedo: Equivalent in power to the standard Proton Missile used to measure ship-to-ship missile strength of various empires. This weapon is used almost exclusively in ship-to-ship combat. Fires a single torpedo at enemy ships, which explodes on impact.
 * 1 Model 875 Medium Anti-matter Bomb: Used for bombardment of enemy cities. Because this weapon moves far too slowly and is much to easy to evade, this is not used in ship-to-ship combat. Also is inaccurate, although powerful. Can destroy large portions of cities. Equivalent to the Justa Bomb in power.

Longsword-class Destroyer
The Longsword-class Destroyer was the "heavy hitter" in the Escogehoc Space Navy. Having a large multitude of weapons and heavy shielding, it could certainly dish out plenty of hurt and take plenty as well.

It rolled out of the shipyards in 2298, and was the third ship class to have an interstellar drive. It was also the first ship for having a pure combat role. Since then, it has gone under several minor refits (namely weapon and shielding upgrades), although nothing to require a change in class. Currently, it is equipped with the following.
 * 2 Model 232 Medium Lasers: Equivalent to the standard laser used to measure laser strength of various empires. This weapon is used for precision bombard of key locations and/or individuals.
 * 4 Model 353 Heavy Anti-matter Torpedo: Equivalent in power to the Mega Proton Missile used to measure ship-to-ship missile strength of various empires. This weapon is used almost exclusively in ship-to-ship combat. Fires three torpedos at enemy ships, which explodes on impact.
 * 1 Model 875 Medium Anti-matter Bomb: Used for bombardment of enemy cities. Because this weapon moves far too slowly and is much to easy to evade, this is not used in ship-to-ship combat. Also is inaccurate, although powerful. Can destroy large portions of cities. Equivalent to the Justa Bomb in power.

Katana-class Cruiser
The Katana-class Cruiser is one of the most powerful ship classes in the Escogehoc Space Navy, capable of taking many hits and dishing out plenty of damage. It's function is similar to that of a destroyer, although it does the job far better due to it's superior size and firepower. It also is used to punch holes in enemy lines, crushing enemies with it's massive firepower.

It was first produced in 2308, after the Escogehoc Space Program was up and running for a decade.

It's weapons are:
 * 4 Model 232 Medium Lasers: Equivalent to the standard laser used to measure laser strength of various empires. This weapon is used for precision bombard of key locations and/or individuals.
 * 8 Model 353 Heavy Anti-matter Torpedos: Equivalent in power to the Mega Proton Missile used to measure ship-to-ship missile strength of various empires. This weapon is used almost exclusively in ship-to-ship combat. Fires three torpedos at enemy ships, which explodes on impact.
 * 1 Model 876 Ultra-Heavy Anti-matter Bomb: Used for bombardment of enemy cities. Because this weapon moves far too slowly and is much to easy to evade, this is not used in ship-to-ship combat. Also is inaccurate, although powerful. Can destroy large unshielded metropolises in a single strike. Equivalent to the Anti-Matter Bomb in power.
 * 1 Model 950 Electric Magnetic Pulse launcher: Used to disable enemy electronics in order to force a bloodless surrender, as it is difficult to fight back without them. Because it does not effect shielded objects, it is almost utterly useless the enemy is all but beaten.

Typically used to conserve lives and capture cities intact. Since Civilization Stage seldom have protection against such a weapon, the Escogehoc Empire uses this to disable the defenses and then offer to allow them to surrender, or be exterminated.

Lance-class Carrier
The Lance-class Carrier serves as a re-arm and re-fuel base for fighters in the Escogehoc Space Navy. It does not typically take place in front line combat, as it is more of a support ship. However, it sports powerful shielding regardless and weapons on par with a destroyer. However, for a ship of it's size, it's main weapon are it's many fighters. It first rolled out of the shipyards in 2231

It's weapons are.
 * 2 Model 232 Medium Lasers: Equivalent to the standard laser used to measure laser strength of various empires. This weapon is used for precision bombard of key locations and/or individuals.
 * 4 Model 353 Heavy Anti-matter Torpedo: Equivalent in power to the standard Proton Missile used to measure ship-to-ship missile strength of various empires. This weapon is used almost exclusively in ship-to-ship combat. Fires three torpedos at enemy ships, which explodes on impact.

It's fighter compliment is
 * 120 Dagger-class Fighters
 * 30 Gladius-class Heavy Fighters

Ranks
Ranks play an important role in the everyday life of Escogehoc. Each rank has a value number, ranging from one to twelve. Certain recreational areas are off limits until you reach a certain rank. For example, there are a number of luxurious clubs that are off limits to anybody below the rank value of four.

Once an Escogehoc has attained a rank, it will drop only in extraordinary circumstances, for example treasonous behavior or committing certain crimes. So if an Escogehoc gets the a rank value of 3 in the military as a Super Soldier, he will keep his rank value until demotion or promotion.

Since rank increase is only possible through military service (or political service, which requires military service prior anyways), this is the reason why military service is so popular. As the highest rank value one can get in the first five years of mandatory service is two, those who do not re-enlist are essentially second-class citizens.

Army Ranks
1: Soldier

2: High Soldier

3: Super Soldier

4: Warrior

5: Great Warrior

6: Lieutenant

7: Commander

8: Half-General

9: General

10: Supreme Commander of the Army

Air Force Ranks
1: Pilot

2: High Pilot

3: Super Pilot

4: Grand Pilot

5: Half-Skymaster

6: Skymaster

7: Quarter-Skylord

8: Half-Skylord

9: Skylord

10: Supreme Commander of the Air Force

Space Navy Ranks
1: Astronaut

2: High Astronaut

3: Super Astronaut

4: Grand Astronaut

5: Half-Starmaster

6: Starmaster

7: Quarter-Starlord

8: Half-Starlord

9: Starlord

10: Supreme Commander of the Space Navy

Sea Navy Ranks
1: Sailor

2: High Sailor

3: Super Sailor

4: Grand Sailor

5: Half-Seamaster

6: Seamaster

7: Quarter Sealord

8: Half Sealord

9: Sealord

10: Supreme Commander of the Sea Navy

Land Vehicle/Artillery Corps
1: Driver

2: High Driver

3: Super Driver

4: Grand Driver

5: Half-Landmaster

6: Landmaster

7: Quarter-Landlord

8: Half-Landlord

9: Landlord

10: Supreme Commander of the Land Vehicle/Artillery Corps

Research and Development Ranks
1: Researcher

2: High Researcher

3: Super Researcher

4: Grand Researcher

5: Research Overseer

6: Scientist

7: High Scientist

8: Super Scientist

9: Supreme Overseer

10: Master Scientist

Special Forces Ranks
The special forces rank values start at 6, because an Escogehoc needs a minimum rank value of six to attempt to tray and join the special forces.

6: Quarter-Knight

7: Half-Knight

8: Knight

9: Slayer

10: High Slayer

11: Lord Slayer

Political Ranks
The rank value in the political circle begin at 7, because an Escogehoc needs a minimum rank value of seven to attempt to try and join the political office.

7: Quarter-Minister

8: Half-Minister

9: Minister

10: President

11: Supreme President

12: Lord President

Other Ranks
0: Child

Phoenix
Phoenix is the homeworld of the Escogehocs. Located in the Originus system, it contains three worlds. Phoenix, it's moon Kawme, Wilkin and a Gas Giant. Containing cities on all of it's three continents, and heavily defended with a X-1 Defender Drone as well as many ships. Each city has multiple M631 Heavy Laser Turrets defending it.

Kawme
Kawme is Phoenix's moon. It was terraformed and colonized by the Escogehoc for it's spice, and convenient location. Just like Phoenix, it has a X-1 Defender Drone and fully fortified cities, and large fleets stationed there to defend it.

Capes
The former capital of the Warzoliek Empire, Capes fell under Escogehoc control after the Fall of Capes. As ground forces were instructed not to cause too much collateral damage, the world was captured mostly intact. It became a great trading and spice hub, not to mention military, rivaling the home system.

Claims of Illegal Weapons
"No, of course we don't have weapons of planetary destruction. The next person who accuses us of having weapons that can destroy entire worlds will have the homeworld of their empire destroyed with our weapons of planetary destruction-I mean conventional weapons."

- Kagesa Avada Lord President

In 2351, rumors began to spread that the Escogehoc Empire had tested a high-powered bomb, capable of destroying an entire planet on planet inhabited with sentient, if primitive life. The Escogehoc denied these rumors, and issued an official statement, threatening to destroy the homeworld of any empire of who continued to accuse them of it.

Most of the protesters quieted down after that.