The Golden Purity Ascended
Acquisition of the Century
The Avenging Might had three sister Overlord-class cruisers that were concurrently constructed at different shipyards. One of these vessels, the Undisputed, was nearing completion when the order to decommission the Overlord-class project was enacted. This development sparked the interest of an eccentric Federal businessman named Elijah Nelson.
Elijah, despite not being a prominent tycoon, possessed influential connections. Within a few months, he succeeded in persuading Federal President Aliccia Coy to approve his purchase of the Undisputed. Since the Undisputed had already been stripped of its weapons, selling it to a private enterprise proved more cost-effective than scrapping it for resources. It is still unknown how Nelson has convinced the Federal Bank to support his business plan and provide him with a loan for the buyout.
After its hull had already been partially cut by scrappers, the second Overlord-class cruiser found itself receiving a second life under the ownership of the daring entrepreneur. Elijah’s vision involved transforming the cruiser into a luxurious liner and operating it as a casino within neutral space, far from the ongoing conflict. As a result, the vessel received a new name – the Golden Purity Ascended – reflecting its opulence and Nelson’s questionable taste in names.
The Golden Purity Ascended’s transformation was not without its challenges. The extensive modifications required to convert the former warship into a floating casino were undoubtedly complex and expensive. However, Nelson’s unwavering determination and ambition fueled his efforts to transform this colossal vessel into a dazzling entertainment hub.
Rise of the Golden Purity Ascended
In 1041, the Golden Purity Ascended departed on its maiden voyage, captivating the imaginations of the weary Federal elite yearning for respite from the ongoing conflict. With its masterful marketing campaign, the ship quickly sold out all 3,582 tickets, fueling speculation that even Federal President Aliccia Coy herself had joined the cruise incognito. This remarkable success marked the beginning of an era for the Golden Purity Ascended, establishing it as a beacon of extravagance and entertainment amidst the turmoil of the galaxy.
The untimely demise of Elijah Nelson in 1044, following the resignation of Aliccia Coy as Federal President, left the future of the Golden Purity Ascended uncertain. However, Elijah’s foresight in restructuring his corporation has prepared the enterprise for such a turn. He established an automated Controlling Algorithm to oversee the company’s operations, ensuring its continued success without interference from the board of directors.
The Controlling Algorithm proved to be a remarkable asset, demonstrating exceptional decision-making skills in hiring key personnel. In one instance, it pre-emptively hired a new captain six months in advance, anticipating the unexpected need for his replacement due to a family emergency. This foresight, bordering on uncanny providence, highlighted the sophistication of the Controlling Algorithm, raising questions about its potential sentience.
One of the most successful hires made by the Controlling Algorithm was Commander Harindan, appointed as Chief of Security in 1045. Her unwavering dedication to her role earned her the affectionate nickname “the Ship’s Wife” from her fellow crew members. Commander Harindan implemented significant changes to the ship’s security operations, notably diversifying its workforce by incorporating mercenary squads and personnel from Imperial space. This bold move, coupled with strict adherence to regulations, transformed the Golden Purity Ascended into an only place in human populated space where Imperial and Federal citizens could collaborate in peace.
Operations in neutral space
Operating under no flag, the Golden Purity Ascended navigates the neutral territories of uninhabited space. Despite being an Overlord-class warship, it lacks any weapons for space combat. In this case secrecy becomes one of its most efficient defenses. Each cruise of Golden Purity Ascended follows an intricate, randomly generated route, known only to the Captain, his First Mate and the Head of Security.
These uninterrupted voyages typically last for three Federal Months, punctuated by brief resupply stops lasting no longer than 24 hours. During these brief interludes, supplies are being refilled, guests disembark and new ones come on board.
The personnel of the Golden Purity Ascended operate under an unique contract. After every cruise, 50% of mid- and low-level personnel and guards are randomly dismissed, making way for their eager pre-hired replacements. Those who are lucky to remain onboard for subsequent voyages are rewarded with a generous annual 25% salary increase each voyage. This praxis results in the fact that each employee hopes to stay onboard as long as possible and retire as a millionaire. Few are rumored actually achieved that dream.
The Golden Purity Ascended caters exclusively to the affluent, by providing them with the escapism from the burdens of war and stress of everyday life. To safeguard guest`s private and trouble free experience, the ship enforces a strict code of anonymity:
- All transactions are handled through proxy firms, ensuring guest details remain confidential. Before each cruise, guests are issued a unique ID number for identification purposes only.
- Transportation to the ship is restricted to approved subcontractors only in order to minimize the risk of raids and to secure guests from being identified by their personal vessels or entourage.
- Upon arrival, guests are encouraged to discard their own clothing and adopt an alternative attire from an extensive wardrobe, blurring the lines of their identities. A Federal tycoon could easily pass as an Imperial noble, and vice versa.
Speculations and Rumors
The Golden Purity Ascended, a former warship-turned-luxury liner, has long been shrouded in an aura of mystery. Thereby it became a magnet for speculation and intrigue. From whispers of an illegal AI masterminding its operations to persistent rumors of Elijah Nelson himself living in seclusion aboard the vessel.
By 1070, the Golden Purity Ascended had inspired two detective films and countless books and publications, each adding fuel to the flames of speculation. One of the most intriguing aspects of the ship’s mystique is the Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) that every crew member is required to sign. This NDA, reportedly the only document equally recognized by both the Federation and the Empire.
This atmosphere of exclusivity and mystery has only served to enhance the Golden Purity Ascended’s reputation as an opulent sanctuary for the galaxy’s elite. Wealthy guests from all across human-inhabited space are drawn to the allure of the unknown, eager to experience the thrill of unrestrained luxury and indulgence amidst the shroud of secrecy.
