Skyshatterer

As a Skyshatterer, you are a master of heavy weaponry and artillery, specializing in devastating firepower. Your role is vital in defending the sky islands of Aetheria from catastrophic threats that could endanger entire cities. Nicknamed "Lead Bleachers," Skyshatterers are highly regulated and closely monitored by their respective nations. Each nation knows the name and capabilities of every Skyshatterer, treating them as a national resource. The Skyshatterers have a solemn responsibility to protect their people from colossal threats, but their power is also restrained to prevent conflict and ensure global stability after the early years saw the devastating consequences of their unbridled use.
  Skills Perception and (Athletics or Investigation)
  Special Feat:  Artillery Mastery - Your extensive training and experience with heavy weaponry and artillery make you a formidable force on the battlefield. You gain proficiency with heavy firearms and siege weapons, allowing you to operate and maintain them effectively. Additionally, you can carry and handle heavy weapons without suffering from exhaustion or penalties to your accuracy. You can also man and reload these weapons by yourself without the need for a crew. These weapons are considered ranged martial weapons for you, and you can use your Strength modifier for attack and damage rolls when wielding them as ranged weapons. Furthermore, as an action, you can wield these weapons like martial melee weapons, making a melee attack with a range of 5 feet. On a hit, they deal 2d12 + your Strength modifier in bludgeoning damage.
  Equipment/Items
    • A heavy repeater cannon (damage: 2d8 piercing, range: 150/600 feet, ammunition: 50 rounds, loading, heavy, two-handed, Multi-target (15 feet))
    • A set of siegebreaker mortar shells (damage: 2d6 bludgeoning, range: 120/480 feet, ammunition: 10 shells, loading, heavy, two-handed)
    • A reinforced Skyshatterer uniform (AC: 14 + Dex modifier, weight: 45 pounds)
    • An artilleryman's toolkit
    • A Skyshatterer insignia
    • A belt pouch containing 10 gold pieces

Career

Qualifications

Becoming a Skyshatterer requires extensive training and a natural aptitude for handling heavy weaponry and artillery. Prospective Skyshatterers typically undergo rigorous military training, often starting as infantry or artillery crew members before specializing in heavy weapon mastery. They must demonstrate exceptional strength, precision, and the ability to operate complex machinery effectively. To earn their place among the elite, candidates must complete specialized combat and artillery training programs, which include live-fire exercises and strategic simulations.

Career Progression

The progression of a Skyshatterer's career involves ascending through the ranks of the aerial artillery divisions. Starting as recruits, they undergo intensive basic training, learning the fundamentals of artillery operation, heavy weaponry, and aerial combat tactics. As they gain experience and expertise, Skyshatterers can advance to higher ranks, taking on leadership roles such as Gunnery Sergeants and Artillery Captains. The most renowned among them may be appointed as Skyshatterer Commanders, responsible for overseeing entire divisions. The ultimate goal for many Skyshatterers is to achieve the title of Skyshatterer General, a position of great honor and authority.

Payment & Reimbursement

Skyshatterers receive competitive compensation for their services, with pay typically increasing in accordance with rank and years of service. In addition to their base salary, they often receive hazard pay due to the inherent dangers of their profession. Many nations also offer bonuses or incentives for exceptional performance, such as successfully neutralizing major threats to sky islands. Beyond financial rewards, Skyshatterers enjoy access to advanced weaponry and technology, as well as comprehensive healthcare and retirement benefits.

Other Benefits

Skyshatterers garner considerable respect and recognition for their pivotal role in safeguarding sky islands and their inhabitants. Their dedication to maintaining peace and protecting against colossal threats earns them admiration from their fellow citizens. In times of crisis, Skyshatterers become revered figures, celebrated for their bravery and unyielding resolve. The position also provides opportunities for advancement within the military hierarchy, making it a prestigious career choice.

Perception

Purpose

Skyshatterers fulfill a critical role in society by serving as the first line of defense against colossal threats that endanger sky islands. Their primary purpose is to protect citizens, trade routes, and the sky islands themselves from airborne dangers. Additionally, they deter potential adversaries from launching attacks, contributing to regional stability and security.

Social Status

Skyshatterers hold a revered status within society, viewed as courageous defenders who willingly face grave danger to ensure the safety of their fellow citizens. They are respected for their skills, discipline, and dedication to duty, and their profession is considered one of the highest callings in the military.

Demographics

The percentage of the population engaged in the profession of Skyshatterer is relatively small, as not everyone possesses the physical and mental attributes required for this demanding role. However, each nation maintains its own aerial artillery divisions, collectively forming a sizable force across Aetheria.

History

The history of Skyshatterers dates back to the early conflicts in the skies of Aetheria when the need for specialized aerial defense became evident. Over the years, the profession evolved alongside advances in technology and weaponry. In the wake of a devastating conflict, nations collectively recognized the importance of regulating the use of Skyshatterers to prevent widespread destruction, leading to the establishment of international laws against their misuse.

Operations

Tools

Skyshatterers rely on a range of specialized tools and equipment, including heavy firearms, siege weapons, artillery ammunition, and advanced targeting systems. Their standard toolkit includes maintenance tools for heavy weaponry, communication devices, and protective gear such as reinforced uniforms and helmets.

Materials

Skyshatterers require a steady supply of heavy artillery shells, propellants, and other munitions for their day-to-day operations. Iron, steel, and various metals are essential for manufacturing ammunition and repairing weaponry.

Workplace

The workplace of a Skyshatterer varies but often involves military bases or aerial artillery depots situated on sky islands. These locations are equipped with heavy artillery emplacements, storage facilities for ammunition, and training grounds for drills and exercises. The environment is characterized by the sounds of heavy machinery, constant drills, and the bustling activity of artillery crews.

Provided Services

Skyshatterers primarily offer aerial defense and deterrence services, safeguarding sky islands and their inhabitants from colossal threats, hostile incursions, and airborne dangers. Their expertise in heavy weaponry and artillery also makes them valuable assets in large-scale battles and conflicts.

Dangers & Hazards

Participation in the operations of a Skyshatterer involves inherent dangers, including exposure to hostile fire, aerial combat, and handling powerful explosives. Additionally, the misuse of their firepower can lead to catastrophic consequences, and they must exercise extreme caution to avoid collateral damage to sky islands and their populations.
Alternative Names
Skyshatterers are often referred to as "Lead Bleachers" due to their expertise in heavy weaponry that can decimate adversaries. Some may also be called "Aerial Artillery Masters" or simply "Aerial Guardians," emphasizing their role as protectors
Type
Sanitation
Demand
The demand for Skyshatterers is significant but carefully regulated by nations to prevent overuse of their devastating firepower. They are considered a vital asset in times of conflict, but their deployment must be judicious to avoid catastrophic conseque
Legality
The profession of Skyshatterer is legal in all parts of Aetheria, provided it is conducted in accordance with international laws and regulations. The misuse of heavy weaponry or artillery in a manner that endangers sky islands or populations is considered a war crime and is strictly prohibited. Nations cooperate to enforce these laws and prevent the indiscriminate use of aerial firepower.