Shipper Flotilla

The Shipper Flotilla is a remarkable and unique formation of 55 ships that travel through the vastness of space as a self-sustained community. These ships range in size from Large (+1) vessels, accommodating crews of around 10, to Huge (+2) vessels, supporting populations of 100 or more. Each of these ships is primarily designed as a "Long-Term Habitation Ship," capable of supporting its inhabitants for their entire lifetime. They are equipped with advanced food cultivation centers, water recyclers, and various other systems for self-sufficiency.
The Flotilla presents a distinctive appearance, characterized by a central mass comprising the largest 15 ships, all interconnected through an intricate web of metal docking tubes. This central cluster functions as a floating, moving space station of sorts. Surrounding this central hub are dozens of smaller vessels, attached to the central mass but with the flexibility to break off for missions, defense, or escape during dire situations. Circling the Flotilla at its periphery are a dozen smaller fighters and combat-focused ships, which serve as sentinels and are instrumental in defending the Flotilla from external threats, such as pirates, marauders, or even the removal of space hazards like asteroids.
The primary purpose of this unique configuration is to foster shared resources and mutual protection among the Shipperships. Given the dangers of space, the ShipperFlotilla offers a sense of community, strength in numbers, and safety in a hostile cosmos.

Leadership

The leadership of the Shipper Flotilla is vested in what is known as the "Moot." This governing body serves as the main decision-making institution for the Flotilla. A Moot is called at the beginning of each galactic month to address administrative needs and whenever a significant threat or crisis approaches the fleet, such as potential shortages of food or water, enemy ships, or technical issues like malfunctioning water regulators.
In the Moot, the captains of each ship have the opportunity to present their views and concerns. Each captain can speak on the matters presented for discussion once, and following this, a vote is held. The voting process is unique, with each captain's vote being counted by the name of their ship and weighted according to the number of crew members on board. A simple majority determines the course of action or decision.
In recent months, the Moot has undergone a controversial change. Now, amenities such as excess food, water, security patrols (both within the Flotilla and on patrol ships outside it) provided by a ship to the Flotilla are factored into its overall influence in the Moot. This change has swayed votes in favor of the larger, more resourceful ships located at the Flotilla's center, with their superior equipment. This has created frustration among the traditional majority voters, who were accustomed to having more power based on their larger crew counts.

Rumored Issues

Overworked Water Recyclers: The Flotilla's water recycling systems are showing signs of strain as they labor to meet the demands of the growing Shipper population.
Moot Vote Count Controversy: A recent shift in Moot voting procedures has stirred controversy, with some ships feeling underrepresented in decision-making.
Denied Food Shortage: Rumors circulate that there might be a hidden food shortage, potentially destabilizing the Shipper community.
Shippers Feeling Too Confined: With their ships permanently linked in the Flotilla, some Shippers are beginning to feel restricted, longing for the freedom of the open cosmos.
Ammunition Shortage: The Flotilla's combat-focused ships are experiencing shortages in ammunition, raising concerns about their ability to defend against threats.
Repair Parts Shortage: The scarcity of essential repair components is impacting the Flotilla's ability to maintain its interconnected structure.

History

The Shipper Flotilla became an official entity around 10:1:2353GS after a series of relentless attacks on individual Shipper ships. These attacks were carried out by pirates, religious zealots, or Krasian patrols, which resulted in the capture or destruction of dozens of isolated Shipper vessels. These continuous threats led the previously nomadic Spacer culture to recognize the necessity of banding together for safety, uniting them for the first time in history. Their aim was to provide a secure haven for the many nomadic Spacer communities against the mounting threats they faced from hostile elements of the universe.

Aspects

High Concept: United Nomadic Community
Trouble: Sluggishness of Fleet
Appearance: Moving Space Station Made of Ships
Under the Rule of the Moot
Community of Resourceful Nomadic Survivors

Founding Date

10:1:2353GS

Alternative Names

The Fleet, The Flotilla

Demonym

Flotillian

Location

Rim

Related Species

• Human

Related Ethnicities

• Culture: Shipper