The Narrows

The Flag of the Narrows. Representing the Captain on top, and the Overseers on the bottom. Additionally, its allegiance to the Iron Eternal.

The Hephaestus Penal Ship Narrows, also colloquially referred to as ‘The Narrows’, had initially existed as the megacorporation's first step into punitive labour – competing with Zavodskoi Interstellar. However, more than twenty years after its launch, it found itself torn apart from within as a result of an uprising conspired by those sentenced aboard the vessel. Thereafter, it would be claimed by Dionae – who had been sentenced aboard the penal ship – repairing and expanding as it reclaimed the expanse of stars it drifted throughout. It now serves amongst the largest ‘independent’ mining corporation within the Coalition of Colonies, having significantly multiplied the vessel’s previous mining abilities. Though loyalty to the Narrows is uncontested, there are subsets within the vessel that do not believe that the Narrows should associate with Hephaestus Industries but instead forge their own path – independently. Dionae from the Narrows that find themselves on the SCCV Horizon are typically contracted by Hephaestus Industries unless one has sought fit to desert their origin.

History

The HPS Narrows, at the time of its construction, was amongst the largest vessels designated for penal labour when unveiled in 2344 CE, attempting to gain a foothold within the prison industrial complex by Hephaestus Industries – at least within the Coalition of Colonies. It’s maiden voyage primarily dealt with resource mining and extraction within the Weeping Stars, in particular the Orezela System which held several asteroid fields now unofficially claimed by the megacorporation. Its launch is largely considered a success in Hephaestus’ history, having provided the Coalition of Colonies a method in which to export undesirable criminals, but also for the megacorporation to take advantage of essentially free labour.

While treatment aboard the HPS Narrows was not considered to meet the standards of “humane conditions” – it mattered not to those overseeing its operation. Long work hours, combined with unsafe working conditions and growing concerns over the lack of food diversity eventually resulted in the Uprising of 2368 CE – which while initially a demonstration by those interned aboard the vessel — turned violent following a brutal execution of an unnamed prisoner by Captain Shao Delun during the six-day protests. Chaos erupted, and it wasn’t long before the understaffed security systems of the Narrows were overwhelmed by thousands of prisoners. It is unknown whether it was an intentional act of sabotage or merely a byproduct of an unintended reactor, but the Narrows detonated amongst the asteroid fields of Orezela. Though evacuation of the remaining survivors was attempted, only one escape shuttle managed to free itself of the vessel’s docking systems – the rest perishing in the fiery explosion of the warp drive as the reactor set off a chain reaction of explosions.

Reclaimation

Prior to its destruction, the Narrows had a rather diverse make-up of those sentenced aboard, including Dionae. Though certain death for other species aboard, many if not all Dionae imprisoned aboard the Narrows had survived, unbeknown to Hephaestus who had already written off and left the Narrows to rot. Most owe this to the catastrophic failure of the onboard reactor, providing the necessary strength to the Dionae for them to continue on after the vessel’s destruction. This was a chaotic time at first as the Dionae initially struggled, though one particular Dionae – The Helmsman of the United Drill, the mind behind the Narrows – eventually sought to unite the surviving gestalts, singing far louder than the others as it took charge and shared its vision. Under Helmsman’s strong lead and with a combination of Dionae ingenuity and the ingestion of the ship staff and prisoner’s bodies for genetic material, the repairs of the vessel were invigorated.

A Council of Overseers was established by Helmsman, who together organised the Dionae in accordance with their expertise and any experiences gained from ingesting the deceased. The Dionae began to repair what they could of the Narrows, commencing with A-Block. It would eventually become a central hub for the Narrows, which now operates similarly to a bureaucratic centre. However, in its early days, A-Block was the only reclaimed section of the vessel for an exceedingly long period – cramped with overpopulation, and dwindling supplies eventually pushed for an executive decision by The Helmsman of the United Drill to reclaim B-Block. Having been previously known as the Penal Mining Department, B-Block had all the necessary apparatus required for the survivors to begin truly staking their claim of survival. Soon thereafter, C and D-Block saw themselves well-settled and repaired as the population of Dionae kept expanding; although still heavily reliant on biomass. Finally, E-Block, the youngest of the reclaimed sections of the Narrows, remains in considerably poor condition.

The Narrows launched from their crash site on the asteroid in 2420 CE and engaged a distress beacon, alerting nearby vessels to its presence. A number of vessels approached, including a Hephaestus freighter which took charge of contacting the Narrows, the Hephaestus staff aboard were amazed to see the Narrows in flying condition after the detonation during the Uprising. Hearing only Dionae in their hail and the true condition of the Narrows, the Hephaestus vessel was close to calling in support to scrap the vessel to make up for their losses from 2368 CE, however, the charismatic Helmsman was able to strike a deal. The Narrows would work under Hephaestus, fulfilling mining quotas for the megacorporation in exchange for keeping the vessel they had repaired and begun to call their home. For Helmsman, this was also a personal matter; though it has never disclosed why it was imprisoned – nor has Hephaestus revealed this, its leadership of the Narrows has become its chance to prove it has risen above the hurdles it may have tripped over in its past life.

Present

Under the watch of Hephaestus Industries and the Council of Overseers, the ship’s crew have diligently continued mining operations in and around the Orezela System. With Hephaestus’ support, the Narrows has since signed several contracts with the Coalition of Colonies, becoming one of the more well-known contractors for the sovereign state, which the vessel now relies on for protection and ease of access to trade ports. The Narrows continue to mine to meet quotas for Hephaestus. However, due to the massive surplus owed to the Narrows’ efficiency and prowess, a considerable amount of mined resources and refined metals flow from the vessel and into Coalition ports. In 2432 CE, the Council of Overseers, deeming the Narrows fully capable and provisioned, opened the gates for allowing Narrows Dionae to work off the vessel. Today, Narrows Dionae can be found in skilled positions at many facilities with a Hephaestus or Coalition presence.

Ship Blocks

Ship blocks are former prison blocks which have been retrofitted to serve as massive residential wings for Dionae, with a Dionae’s Octave determining the quality of their cell/room. Each block is assigned a duty, with Octave determining a Dionae’s role. The blocks are also named in the order they were re-purposed, so older blocks tend to have better facilities. A Dionae cannot be re-assigned between blocks but does have a say in where they are initially assigned.

• A-Block

The prison block resided in by Dionae assigned to Command, Navigation and Research duties. 1st-2nd Octave Dionae are assigned with lesser administrative tasks and monitoring of ship systems. 3rd Octave Dionae handle navigation and piloting of the vessel. 4th Octave Dionae are responsible for deciding major ship movements, and mission objectives after consulting with their Block’s Overseer, as well as commencing research projects.

• B-Block

The prison blocked resided in by Dionae assigned to Mining duties. 1st through to 3rd Octave Dionae are assigned to mining duties, with the higher Octaves afforded access to better equipment, with the 3rd Octaves sporting access to massive Iron Excavators unique to the Narrows. 4th Octaves remain ship-side and are responsible for ensuring monthly quotas are met from each B-block Dionae.

• C-Block

The prison block resided in by Dionae assigned to Maintenance duties. 1st-2nd Octave Dionae are assigned to hangar duties, handling the refuelling of any non-Dionae-based or Dionae-conventional hybrid shuttles, logistic duties and simple repairs. 3rd-4th Octave Dionae maintain the more complex systems of the vessel, such as electrical systems and the thrusters, with 4th Octaves responsible for blueprinting major modifications after consulting with the Block’s Overseer.

• D-Block

The prison block resided in by the Dionae assigned to Machining duties. 1st and 2nd Octave Dionae are assigned to simple machining, such as fabricating general-use tools for use in other Blocks. 3rd and 4th Octave Dionae can choose to either work on fabricating more complex tools and circuitry, often used by the Maintenance C-Block, or work on installing augmentations and prosthetics onto gestalts that adhere to the Iron Eternal. Some 3rd and 4th Octaves lead Iron Eternal sermons around the ship or are permitted leave from the Narrows to attend Eternal gatherings, such as at the Eternal Temple.

• E-Block

The prison block resided in by the Dionae assigned to Security duties. Similar to the Mining B-Block, Octave simply determines access to equipment, with the 4th Octaves acting as supervisors. Security duties range from external threats, such as hostile xenofauna, but can include internal threats, where a Dionae who continuously spurns Narrows values is flagged for Total Assimilation, their nymphs forcibly absorbed by multiple Dionae – so as no one Dionae is burdened by resisting nymphs or is swayed to rejecting Narrows values themself – who then preserve the fragmented memories between them.

Narrows Terminal Cortices

Each Block has a Narrows Terminal Cortex at the centre, primarily used for record-keeping, however they are also a way for Narrows Dionae who follow the Iron Eternal to digitalise their memories in a central database. The amount of the computer’s memory you are allowed to use is dictated by your Octave and is a major motivation to progress through the ranks for those who are devout Iron Eternal followers. These Narrows Terminal Cortices together make up a one partition of the Narrows’ damaged artificial intelligence - HI-KEEPER. Barely functioning, the AI has been relegated to be a digital archivist of sorts, documenting every ship movement and managing the Terminal Cortices. The repair of HI-KEEPER is a large goal encouraged by the Iron Eternal aboard the Narrows, though much progress has yet to be made.

Octaves System

Born into anarchy and strife, the Dionae of the Narrows value order and a clear hierarchy. A ranking system based around Octaves was devised, embracing the Hephaestus values of meritocracy; each Major’s pitch when singing matches their assigned Octave, allowing higher Octave Majors to be more clearly heard over the lower frequencies of lower Octave Majors. The Narrows have also embraced the Iron Eternal, which influences one’s likelihood of progressing up the hierarchy aboard the Narrows.

• 5th Octaves

Singing at the highest octave aboard the Narrows is the Captain and the Councils of Overseers, with the Captain permitted to increase their pitch by only one semitone above the Council – still enough to be noticeable. Those from this Octave, befitting their rank, are afforded the largest refitted cells to reside within and have the luxury to share their cell with no one. Additionally, 5th Octaves have total control over their Block’s Biocomputer Library Terminal; the Captain has their own Terminal in their room for Captain’s logs and personal use. The position of Captain is the highest position in the ship’s chain of command. Originally established by Helmsman of the United Drill, the Captain is able to use their executive powers to veto any decisions made by the Overseers or make any new edict they see fit, however, they generally will refer to the Overseers for their input on decisions based on their experiences. The position is held by the Dionae until they can no longer work or retire, however, since the role’s inception, it has been held by the Helmsman Of The United Drill. The Overseers make up the heads of each department, with each Block having one Overseer at the top of its command chain. Currently, there are four Overseer positions together forming the ship’s Council of Overseers. Much like the Captain, the positions are held until either the Dionae is unable to work or they decide to retire, and much like the Captain none of the Dionae in an Overseer position has become too old to work or retired.

The hierarchy of the Narrows.

• 4th Octaves

Made up of long-time veterans aboard the Narrows and those who truly excel at their duties, the 4th Octaves are tasked with supervisory and some administrative duties among their Block, leading the Dionae of lower Octaves in their duties. They are often seen around Hephaestus and Coalition installations in positions of authority, such as representatives for Hephaestus. Befitting their rank, they are afforded a medium-sized cell with the option of sharing their cell with another Dionae belonging to the Octave. Additionally, they are afforded a large amount of space to write on a Biocomputer Library Terminal, primarily for post-shift supervisor reports, but with enough room for memory-keeping.

• 3rd Octaves

Made up of highly skilled Dionae who have long proven their competency, the 3rd Octaves are tasked with carrying out the more complex duties of their Block. Befitting their rank, they are permitted a medium-sized cell which they must share with another Dionae from the same Octave. They are often seen representing the Narrows at Hephaestus and Coalition facilities in skilled positions. Additionally, 3rd Octaves are afforded a moderate amount of space to write on a Biocomputer Library Terminal, enough room for important memory transcription.

• 2nd Octaves

Made up of Dionae who have proven their competency, though are not considered exceptional. 2nd Octave Dionae are tasked with carrying out the more mundane tasks of their Block and are not trusted in skilled positions or with complex machinery. They are assigned to small cells with up to four cellmates. Additionally, they are not permitted reassignment to other Coalition or Hephaestus facilities. They are the first Octaves given access to their Block’s Biocomputer Library Terminal, however, they are only afforded a meagre amount of space, encouraging further promotions.

• 1st Octaves

Made up of recent arrivals, those who have yet to prove their competency, and those repeatedly disciplined. 1st Octave Dionae are left with the most mundane of tasks within their Block and often have a 4th Octave supervisor watching their every movement and judging their work. They are not permitted a cell and instead reside within areas within a Block that have since been converted into large dormitories.

Work Ethic and Progressing Through Octaves

The Dionae of the Narrows have an excellent work ethic and, due to their anarchic birth during a prison revolt and their close ties with Hephaestus Industries value those who show strong leadership skills and empathy. Being able to use your force of personality to subdue an aggressor without violence is held in high regard within the cluster. Due to this, most Narrows Dionae, though friendly, are perfectly capable of “talking the talk and walking the walk,” being able to argue their case with co-workers of the same “rank”, and being sure to treat their superiors with the utmost respect. There are a variety of ways to be able to be promoted to higher Octaves. The following is not an exhaustive list, but certainly ones that are considered more important. Those who demonstrate qualities against the list, generally find themselves remaining in the same Octave, or even demoted.

• Exemplary Mediation Skills: A Dionae who consistently demonstrates exceptional mediation skills, resolving conflicts without resorting to violence, is likely to be recognized for their ability to maintain harmony within the community, and thereby may be considered for higher Octaves.

• Innovative Problem-Solving: Those who exhibit creative and effective problem-solving, particularly in challenging or high-pressure situations, may be considered for higher Octaves. Finding unique solutions that benefit the Narrows as a whole showcases valuable leadership qualities.

• Community Building: Dionae who actively contribute to the community's growth and cohesion, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie, are likely to be acknowledged. Building strong social connections and networks within the Narrows can contribute to their elevation in Octaves.

• Commitment to Work Ethic: Consistent dedication and a strong work ethic are highly valued in the Narrows. Dionae who go above and beyond in their assigned tasks, showing a commitment to the collective well-being, may find themselves rising in Octaves.

• Effective Communication: The ability to communicate persuasively and diplomatically. Considered one of the paramount necessities for those in the Higher Octaves, being able to communicate effectively amongst others in the Octaves, either higher or lower, is a must if one wishes to be elevated.

• Demonstrated Empathy: Being able to understand and connect with the emotions of others is crucial. Dionae who consistently display empathy and compassion may find themselves moving up in Octaves due to their ability to foster understanding and harmony.

• Adaptability and Flexibility: In a dynamic environment like the Narrows, adaptability is key. Dionae who can quickly adjust to changing circumstances, demonstrate flexibility in their roles, and contribute effectively in various situations may be recognized for their versatility.

• Initiative and Proactivity: Taking the initiative to address challenges, propose improvements, or contribute new ideas showcases leadership potential. Dionae who proactively engage in the betterment of the Narrows may find themselves ascending in Octaves.

• Collaborative Spirit: Valuing and actively participating in collaborative efforts, whether in work projects or community initiatives, reflects positively on a Dionae's leadership potential. Those who foster a sense of teamwork and collaboration may be considered for higher Octaves within the Narrows.

Notable Dionae

Helmsman of the United Drill - Captain and Overseer of A-Block

Considered the visionary leader of the Narrows, Helmsman is a large Argus that stands far above any other Dionae – even other Overseers. Whilst initially imprisoned as a Cyclops, over a century ago, Helmsman has since seen it fit to introduce other Nymphs within their Gestalt, mostly those that have shown exceptional loyalty to the Narrows, and the ability to lead – some even being drawn from Overseers that have voluntarily ceded them. It is unknown the crime that Helmsman committed to have been sentenced to the HPS Narrows, but what is known is that they were considered a ‘lifer’ – a prisoner condemned to a life sentence without the chance of parole. Though rumours circulate outside the Narrows as to what they committed, those aboard the vessel do not engage in the gossip mill, only showing loyalty and obedience to the Argus as they guide the Narrows across the cosmos. For Helmsman, their vision for the Narrows is an attempt to prove they have risen over their previous life of crime. They are considered the face of the Narrows, and any negotiation with the vessel need be assented to by them. They have also been shown to have a highly strategic mind, being able to grasp complex concepts and foresee potential challenges. Its understanding of the cosmos and celestial dynamics aids in navigating the vastness of space and planning the Narrows trajectory in the rather daunting interstellar landscape.

The Steady Tendril Which Guides the Tempo - Overseer of B-Block

Having only been appointed as Overseer of Mining following the reclamation of B-Block, The Steady Tendril Which Guides the Tempo is a Cyclops-form Gestalt, and similarly to Helmsman of the United Drill, had been sentenced aboard the HPS Narrows before its destruction. However, its sentence is known to all; having been caught smuggling rare minerals from a Coalition facility on the border of the Weeping Stars, where it had worked as a Miner. Only condemned to the Narrows for ten years, only mere months from freedom, the Narrows Uprising occurred and stranded them alongside the other Dionae survivors. It was obvious their appointment was one of understanding and trust, as opposed to having proved themselves, with Helmsman electing The Steady Tendril Which Guides the Tempo as Overseer due to them sharing a cell – they have since proven the contrary, with B-Block considered one of the most productive and efficient blocks across the entirety of the vessel. They routinely engage in work songs to ensure their department is reminded of their duties and has been known to be strict in disciplining those who do not meet its criteria for a “hard worker”.

Starkissed Tendrils Soothed by Shining Metals - Overseer of C-Block

One of the eldest Cyclops-form Dionae aboard the Narrows, at an age of four-hundred-and-thirty-four, they find themselves assisted by a variety of augments and prosthetics to maintain mobility. It isn’t uncommon for them to be pushed in apparatus across the Narrows by 1st Octaves as a “punishment” – many actually enjoy conversing with Starkissed Tendrils Soothed by Shining Metals, and it has become somewhat of a competition to be “disciplined” to receive the task of assisting the Overseer. Unique to any other Dionae, they experience albinism. Only seen in the Overseer, they appear somewhat translucent with scars etched across their body of a bygone time before they were sentenced aboard the Narrows for embezzlement and fraud – which they claim to be innocent of, merely a victim of being framed by others. They are Overseer for C-Block, directing the block in its maintenance and logistics duties.

Orchestra of Knowledge Sustainment - Overseer of D-Block

With authority over D-Block, Overseer Orchestra of Knowledge Sustainment ensures that the other blocks have their apparatus maintained and where necessary creates more. In addition to the general requirements of D-Block, they also monitor the creation, installation and maintenance of augmentations and prosthetics grafted onto Gestalts that have chosen to adhere to the Iron Eternal – which a large percentage of the Narrows does, even Overseer Orchestra of Knowledge Sustainment has publicly voiced their agreement with the faith’s ethos. Like the other Overseers, Orchestra of Knowledge Sustainment is a Cyclops-form but is adorned with augments and prosthetics, where it can easily be said they are more metal than Dionae – which has made them less stringent on religious happenings, creating spaces within D-Block for Iron Eternal followers to give sermons, furthermore giving considerably more “down time” to D-Block when compared to the other Blocks.

Sentinel Beyond the Nebula - Overseer of E-Block

Tranquil and serene, Overseer Sentinel Beyond the Nebula is stationed at E-Block. Considered one of the greatest strategic minds to have existed across Dionae, they have thwarted several attacks against the Narrows, and even led the charge in counter-attacks by the vessel. Unlike the other Overseers, Sentinel Beyond the Nebula was born on the Narrows and progressed through the Octaves System over the last few decades – before eventually being selected by the Council and Helmsman to be the appointed Overseer following the reclamation of E-Block during the early 2400s. Through tracing their lineage, they are a descendant of Captain Helmsman of the United Drill – in general terms, the Great-Great-Grandchild of the Captain. Despite their rather illustrious lineage, they have received no assistance to get where they are, they pride themselves on reaching the top on their own merits – and therefore, are one of the most strict Overseers on the lower Octaves to ensure they reach and subsequently maintain their expectations.

Culture

The Narrows operates on a somewhat utopian system if one would be able to call it that. Basic necessities required by a Dionae to continue their existence shall be provided by the Council of Overseers, through a combination of resource and labour distribution, communal living spaces, sharing of knowledge and having their safety protected. Resources are collectively owned and distributed based on the needs of the Dionae and then subsequently the rest of the Narrows. This ensures that all Dionae aboard the Narrows have access to essential resources for sustenance and growth – any remaining surplus traded for resources not able to be created aboard the vessel. More tedious labour assignments are distributed equitably among the Narrows, where tasks are rotated to prevent a concentration of burdens on any specific Dionae – helping promote a sense of fairness and shared duty. Knowledge is considered a communal asset across the Narrows, where education is viewed as a shared responsibility. It is encouraged to actively engage in knowledge-sharing sessions, where ideas and concepts may be disseminated throughout the shared blocks. Lastly, the Blocks are created to house Dionae – where only the highest of the Octaves may seek their own independent spaces – and the living quarters are designed with a focus on communal spaces, encouraging interaction and collaboration amongst Dionae.

Diminished Dionae

The typical group aboard the Narrows, representing the dominant culture, are the Majors, who have fully adopted Hephaestus values after absorbing the biomasses of predominantly Hephaestus employees and wardens. However, a small, second group exists, the Diminished, composed entirely of original Narrows Dionae who primarily absorbed the biomass of the high-security prisoners. The relationship between the Majors and Diminished is not one of conflict, as both continue to work together and see the Narrows as their home, however, the difference in ideals has led to the Majors attempting to subdue and hide the Diminished culture, which they see as a stain upon the Narrows’ and Hephaestus’ reputation.

Many Diminished, due to recalling faint memories of being imprisoned by Hephaestus, retain an anti-Hephaestus view and therefore wish to see a more independent Narrows, free to conduct their mining duties without corporate oversight. Diminished find it more difficult to conform to the Narrows’ ideals and hierarchy, often singing out of their Octave’s octave, disrupting the work of the Majors who rigidly stick to their Octave. Majors often view Diminished as disruptive and inefficient workers.

Diminished Dionae may see themselves in varying lights. Some may be outspoken about their resentment towards Hephaestus and the Narrows hierarchy, whereas others may have developed an inferiority complex due to their treatment by the Majors. It is not uncommon for Diminished to seek assimilation into Major culture, ejecting more troublesome nymphs and accepting donated Major nymphs. Some Diminished unable to receive donor Major nymphs may become self-loathing, engaging in varying forms of self-punishment or self-isolation. Some Diminished may externalise their dislike of themselves onto other Diminished Dionae, lashing out violently. Diminished Dionae are generally restricted to the 1st and 2nd Octaves, unable to display the traits required to be promoted to the 3rd Octave. Additionally, all Diminished Dionae were assigned out of the A-Block, not being permitted to carry out command duties, but also as A-Block is the most public-facing of Blocks, responsible for communications with other vessels and factions.

The Diminished value autonomy and believe that forging their own path is necessary rather than aligning closely with Hephaestus Industries, or any other megacorporation for that matter. They harbour scepticism of any external influence, though most pointing at Hephaestus, there are many within the Diminished that would go so far as to isolate themselves even from the Coalition of Colonies, instead relying on internal governance, self-sufficiency and the managing of their affairs without undue influence or interference by adhering to “foreign” laws. In pursuit of this independence, they are often the most vocal in pushing the Narrows to pursue innovation and adaptability, especially finding solutions to challenges presented to them whilst gathering resources and materials for the Narrows. There also exists a collective desire for self-redemption among the Diminished, aiming to redefine the Narrows’ identity after its tumultuous history, where they wish to prove they can function and operate independently, without being overshadowed by their penal origins.

Deserters

Only Dionae from the 3rd Octave are permitted to be reassigned to different facilities owned by Hephaestus Industries, generally somewhere within the Coalition of Colonies but it isn’t unheard of for Dionae to be transported across the interstellar highways to other nations. This makes it difficult for Dionae who may not align with the Narrows’ ideals, especially the Diminished who grow more and more disenfranchised with the ethos that Helmsman takes them. The Diminished already find it difficult to progress through the Octaves, thereby limiting their ability to leave the vessel. However, there are ways to leave the Narrows – being caught or recaptured will likely result in Total Assimilation, a consequence befitting of their intention to desert the vessel.

It is possible for one to smuggle themselves off the Narrows, such as resource shipments to the Coalition of Colonies – becoming stowaways as they journey across the stars to wherever the shipment may be heading; building a life for themselves wherever they are uncovered. There have been instances of group migrations, where like-minded Dionae plan synchronized departures to divert attention and increase anonymity. This approach appears to be the most successful, as those who elect to smuggle themselves off the Narrows generally get caught before they’re even able to be loaded for shipment. It isn’t unheard of for some Dionae to even throw themselves off the Narrows in hopes of eventually being found by a sympathetic vessel, or even collide with celestial debris where they can live alone, at least until they progenate.

Deserters often experience fear and uncertainty when eventually leaving the Narrows, especially in regard to the risks involved and the lack of any understanding about surviving outside a familiar environment; this is often overshadowed by the yearning for independence as they seek to break free from the Narrows’ control and to make personal choices that do not necessarily conform to the ideals upheld by the vessel.

Work Songs

Owing to their history, the Narrows have been known to make use of songs to keep morale high during work shifts. These are generally call-and-response type songs, used by a Dionae from a higher Octave when supervising or administrating Dionae from the lower Octaves – or when the Captain or Overseer needs to gain the attention of either a department or the entirety of the Narrows.

In the Cosmos Vast

A popular work song among the Narrows which begun as a mining song among the B-Block, but now is sung across the blocks and has come to be regarded as the Narrows' anthem.

[Leader, Response, Everyone]

In the cosmos vast, where asteroids gleam,

Mining in space, chasing a cosmic dream.

Drills and lasers, in the vacuum we toil,

Extracting stardust, from celestial soil.

So, Majors, Majors, a-mining we'll go.

Swing high; swing low.

So, Majors, Majors, a-mining we'll go.

Swing high; swing low.

In zero gravity, our tools find grace,

A miner's dance, in the cosmic space.

Harvesting riches, from a starlit embrace,

In the cosmos, a miner shall leave their trace.

Light of the Leader

[Leader, Response, Everyone]

In the workplace, where respect takes flight,

Listen and learn, under the leader's light.

Guiding the way, with wisdom to share,

Follow with honour, show them you care.

In each task, let respect shine through,

Let loyalty rise true.

Captain’s Praise

[Leader, Response, Everyone]

On the ship's deck, where the stars shine grand,

Obey the captain, with a steady hand.

Engines blast, the cosmos so vast,

Follow orders, make the moment last.

In the star’s embrace, our destiny aligned,

Forever guiding the captain's mind.

Hustle a Little Longer

A song sung by Diminished and those critical of the Narrows culture. It is only sung when a supervisor isn't around to hear. Substitute year with current.

[Leader, Response, Everyone]

Oh, the year's twenty-five-sixty-five (Twenty-five-sixty-five),

Still got Majors giving me a load of blight (Giving me a load of blight),

Still there's just no end in sight (No end in sight).

Hustle little longer then I'm free (Then I'm free),

Yeah, just a little longer then I'm free (Just a little longer),

From the most backwards vessel I've ever seen (Most backwards vessel ever seen).

Follow my lead and we'll get through (We'll get through),

Maybe one day we'll strike a harmony (Strike a harmony),

Forge us our autonomy (Forge us our autonomy).

Hustle little longer then we're free,

Yeah, just a little longer then we're free,

From the most backwards vessel I’ve ever seen.

[Repeat chorus until someone yells ‘Four-Five!’]

Slang

Blockie - Dionae from the same block will refer to each other as ‘blockies’.

Cellies - Dionae who share a ‘cell’ will refer to each other as ‘cellies’.

Riggers - Miners, or those in close connection to Mining.

Greasers - Roboticists, or someone in the machining profession.

Fresh Mass - Recent newcomers assigned to the 1st Octave, someone new to a job.

Dims - Openly known Diminished Dionae are often called Dims.

Out of Tune / Flat - Deserters, someone bad at their job, Diminished.

Starbammed - Crazy. A Dionae that is or has experienced mental problems, including having the mindtypes Voided Vocals, Scarlet Scores or Nocturne Notes.#

Four-Five - When an Overseer or the Captain is in the area; sometimes used when referring to any person of superior authority. Often shouted by lower octaves to signify the presence of an approaching supervisor.

Cage - One’s home, or dwelling

Hustle - One’s work, or hobbies.

Quiet Time - When a Dionae wishes to take some time for themselves.

Harmonise - Agreeing or in agreement with something.

Disturbed a Reaver’s Nest - When one is in trouble, or expecting trouble to come.

Like a Trident Worm - Someone who is very stubborn, selfish or gluttonous.

Diesel - A slang word for the concoction of radioactive sludge – a byproduct of ore refinery – served as meals in the cafeteria.

Bits - Refers to the storage in the Block Terminals, which is often used as currency between Dionae who will trade favours for ‘Bits’.

Lock Down - Needing to focus, or a developing security situation. Contextual input is often necessary to determine which one.

Snuffing Out/X’ing Out - An execution of a Gestalt by forcibly splitting them and then having each nymph absorbed by a different Dionae.

Geriatric Block - The Colossus on the hull of the Narrows.

Iron Excavators

An example of Iron Eternal ingenuity boasted by the B-Block Majors. The Iron Excavators are hulking exosuits made of both durable metals and biomass and powered by miniature nuclear reactors, capable of ripping through rock or using makeshift, mounted plasma drills to mine ore. Each Excavator has an interfacing port containing complex circuitry to integrate with the mess of a nymph’s neural structures, allowing a Dionae to merge with the exosuit and pilot it. Doing so is a large commitment, as a nymph is unable to safely disentangle itself from the interfacing port, so a gestalt risks losing a large portion of its nymphs should they unmerge from the Excavator. For this reason, many B-Block Dionae opt to become Excavator operators to display their true commitment to the Narrows, often accompanied by an increase in Octave; more rarely, they are used as a final disciplinary measure for B-Block’s less productive miners, forcing them to integrate into the Excavators.

Notably, the Iron Excavators paved the way for the TCAF’s Hazardous Environment Gestalt Unit’s Fulcrum division, with the HEGU looking to the Iron Excavators and their interfacing ports for inspiration when designing their armoured vehicles. Before the TCAF had matured from the Tau Ceti Foreign Legion, several refitted Iron Excavators had already been obtained by the Republic of Biesel – likely a result of a deal involving Hephaestus Industries. These Excavators simply had the mounted plasma drills replaced with heavy-hitting laser cannons and an extra layer of combat armour welded over the pre-existing structure.

The Narrows' Colossus

Recently in 2465 CE, the number of Dionae aboard the Narrows resulted in the Council of Overseers allowing overflow Dionae – usually Cyclops which have aged to the point of immobility – to conglomerate on the hull of the vessel. Over the previous decade and originally mistaken by onlookers as a large hull reinforcement, a Colossus was formed, naming itself An Uplifting Accompaniment That Spirals Through The Cosmos Towards Greatness. Formed by Narrows Dionae, the colossus remains obedient to the Councils of Overseers and stays true to the Narrows’ ideals.

When attached to the underside of the Narrows, the Colossus’ structure contorts to make way for massive gas-bladder propulsion, allowing the Narrows to support the extra mass of the Colossus attached to its underside. Rarely, An Uplifting Accompaniment That Spirals Through The Cosmos Towards Greatness will break off from the Narrows, stretching its mass as it simply propels itself alongside the Narrows – a repaired gravity generator aboard the Narrows having to be activated when this occurs, reeling in the Colossus if it propels itself too far out or is unable to propel itself back.

In exchange for its spot on the Narrows, where radiation is abundant as the vessel cruises past stars and as a cut of any mined radioactive materials is owed to the Colossus, the Colossus will be deployed by the Narrows upon exoplanets found to have a high mineral wealth. The Colossus’ tendrils will seep through the earth of the exoplanet or the rock of an asteroid, tearing ores out of the earth which it temporarily stores within itself. Within a month, a dozen asteroids in a belt can be crushed and absorbed by the Colossus, or an entire tectonic plate on an exoplanet peeled off. Wherever the Colossus is deployed, whatever life was there before, is soon quenched; the loss of a continental plate on an exoplanet destabilising its seismology and allowing volcanos to devastate the face of the exoplanet.

All material mined by the Colossus is masterfully sorted and then compressed within its body, before being ejected for refinery within the main Narrows vessel. An Uplifting Accompaniment That Spirals Through The Cosmos Towards Greatness also serves the secondary purpose of security against pirate vessels. For many pirates, the sight of the Colossus detach from beneath the Narrows’ hull is enough to deter an attack; those unwise enough to continue their attack often find their ship battered and incapacitated by the Colossus’ ramming manoeuvers or, worse, find their vessel swallowed whole and compressed within the Colossus for later refining within the Narrows.

Relations

Coalition of Colonies

The most notable Dionae faction within the Coalition of Colonies, the Narrows, is a large supplier of mined ore and their refined products, from metal alloys to fuels, making up a small but considerable share of the Coalition's metal and alloys market. However, due to the Narrows’ links with Hephaestus Industries and the Narrows’ disastrous impact on a number of otherwise flourishing exoplanets, it often finds itself at the centre of discussions on mining regulation, with a representative occasionally summoned before the House of Members. Hephaestus Industries continues to fiercely back the Narrows to ensure they can continue to mine where they wishes. Himeo, naturally, is often the most vocal member state which calls for the ejection of the Narrows from the Coalition space, claiming it is self-sufficient enough to leave permanently.

Hephaestus Industries

The Narrows has become one of the most profitable enterprises undertaken by the megacorporation; though different from its original intention. Despite the unforeseen losses incurred by Hephaestus Industries, the leadership of the Helmsman of the United Drill has proven to be a lucrative advantage, especially since rejoining the megacorporation as they journey throughout the Coalition of Colonies – engaging in resource extraction and refining before selling their surpluses at a significantly discounted rate to Hephaestus Industries, who also gets a cut of the profit should the Narrows fill the quotas set by the Coalition. The megacorporation has expressed a desire to expand the fleet, and formally incorporate them as a subsidiary within their ranks, but has not yet revealed when they plan to do so, or if it merely shall continue to persist as a possible idea.