Non-Player Characters

[GM Yuusha]

This thread will list the Non-Player Characters (NPCs) you can encounter and interact with in the game.

Please note that NPCs will come in one of three types:

• Major NPCs: They have their own account and full details for each are given below. They'll show up somewhat regularly. They're the most important to both the overall storyline and to interpersonal relationships in the Unit.

• Lesser NPCs - They'll have pictures and some details, which can also be found below. They might pop up here and there. They could become more important with player involvement. However, they're mostly there to facilitate things or handle certain situations.

• Minor NPCs - They get names and a note of what they do or why they're important. This is more for completeness sake, so you know the names of people in the Unit's hierarchy. On the off chance you want or need to consult with them, then you have a name to ask for.

Additional NPCs will be added as required. Any NPC that is off world will be just a Minor NPC.

[Eric Voelker]

Name: Eric Voelker
Rank: Major, Commanding Officer (CO) of the Unit
Occupation: Mechwarrior. Leads the First Company
Callsign: Vowel
Height: 6'0
Hair: Brown, greying on the sides, combed back
Eyes: Brown
Age: 55
Build: Average

Eric was born in the Lyran Commonwealth to a military family. It was no surprise he ended up attending an Academy, although a place at the Nagelring Academy was a more prestigious opportunity than any expected. Unfortunately for Eric, this is where his disillusionment with Lyran military doctrine started. The underlying social snobbery, with nobles looking down on their 'commoner' peers, was something Eric encountered often. That the Academy didn't officially tolerate it, yet it existed all the same, caused Eric to question authority for the first time. Up until then he'd been a well-behaved and obedient student. Graduating with a middling result from the Battlemech course, Eric ended up serving in the LCAF as a junior officer. Over the next few years he worked his way up to Hauptmann, performing well in his duties and gaining a reputation for competence and sound command within the Donegal Guards. However, Eric was able to progress no further in the military due to his lack of social connections and 'lacking' heritage. It made no difference that his family had a proud history of serving the LCAF for generations. Things came to a head when Eric's strategic suggestions were not only ignored in a command conference during a wargame simulation, but his whole unit were used as a sacrificial piece as punishment for him daring to show initiative in front of his 'betters'. That this action only cost their side resources and made no difference to the outcome, in fact expediting the loss, sickened Eric. He'd heard stories of similar things being done for real in conflict and he wanted no part of it. It wasn't hard for him to imagine the men and women under him being sent out as a sacrificial distraction because they'd offended some social General.

When it came time to extend his enlistment Eric declined. Instead, he travelled to Galatea, the Mercenary Star, and sought employment. Now in his late 30s, he was bitter and rebellious. Thankfully, this wasn't at all uncommon amongst mercenaries and his history and training made him a desirable hire. Eric relished the new work and the freedom it afforded. Commands were smaller, objectives were more achievable, and he grew to like the economic considerations of the job. They were like a puzzle to solve. In only a year he was commanding a lance once more. Within two more he was in command of a company again, part of the Azure Fangs. By the war of 3039 he had been nominated the new commander and the war brought in a lot of well-paying opportunities. It was also much more brutal than any expected. The Azure Fangs took damaging losses and their finances became problematic. As luck would have it, there were other mercenary commands in similarly bad straits. The end of the war saw the formation of the Obsidian Angels with Eric as its leader. For the first time in his life he was a Major. He also now had more men and women than ever to look out for. His hot headedness in the war had caused problems and became something he recognised he needed to address.

For a time Eric encouraged the Obsidian Angels to take less risky contracts so they could rebuild. It took time, but the strategy worked and the unit grew again in size. To the shock of many this period of time also saw Eric end up as a father. The exact circumstances are one of the biggest mysteries of the unit, and there is a betting pool about what actually happened. Some suspect the child is adopted, others think it must have been a fling during a garrison contract based on the timing involved, while a few others wonder if it's actually his niece. It's also possible the young baby he was suddenly in the care of was from a dalliance with someone in the Obsidian Angels. Whatever the truth is, Eric doesn't acknowledge questions on the topic and he is very protective of little Annalena. His cute daughter recently had her ninth birthday and Eric looks increasingly happy and content, his youthful bitterness a thing of the past and his hot-headedness thoroughly dispatched. It is like he has settled into the role of Major and mellowed. Nowadays the aging veteran, in his mid 50s, spends much of his time behind his desk and getting better at Administration. On the other hand, none would say he lacks skill as a pilot. Eric is a gifted sniper and battlefield commander. His new mech, an upgraded and state of the art Battlemaster, is also the envy of many. When he does take to the field Eric is a force to be reckoned with.

On duty Eric is friendly and approachable. As long as others are respectful he has an open door policy and he takes feedback and suggestions remarkably well. However, he is somewhat distant to most non-officers in the unit and very reliant upon his NCOs and junior officers to communicate matters upwards. Off duty he likes his own private time, being an avid reader and movie watcher. His private quarters are full of neatly organised books and films. He also spends a great deal of time looking after his daughter and keeping her entertained, although he accepts he cannot look over her all the time. Fortunately, the Obsidian Angels largely act as family toward her and she is free to wander around (and somewhat to cause mischief) when he is busy in his office. Overall, Eric is considered a safe pair of hands as CO. His efforts to listen to all voices under his command, to consult and delegate well and his policy of being strict but fair, are appreciated by the majority. Some of his greatest weaknesses are his fairly textbook approaches to warfare, his lack of personal connections across the Sphere and not having an Executive Officer in post to assist him. While the former two are countered by other voices and personnel in the unit, such as more unorthodox officers and strategists or well connected staff, the empty Executive Officer post is problematic. The position has been empty for some years now, as anyone given it would in effect need to be accepted as the future CO as well as needing to be fit and mature enough for the role. This has meant more work for Eric. However, now that the separate groups making up the Obsidian Angels are well harmonised and the unit's funding is in order, Eric has begun properly considering who it could be.

Connections: Eric Voelker would be an Influence 4 Connection, but he may not be purchased as a Connection by starting player characters.

[Lakshmi Kaala]

Name: Lakshmi Kaala
Rank: Captain
Occupation: Mechwarrior. Leads the Second Company
Callsign: Kestrel
Height: 5'1
Hair: Short black hair with red tips
Eyes: Light brown
Age: 30
Build: Petite, fit

Lakshmi, or Laks as she is often called informally, joined the Obsidian Angels as one of the founders when the CO was setting it up 10 years ago. Small and jovial, Lakshmi rose up the ranks quickly due to her phenomenal talent as a mechwarrior. Not only a naturally skilled gunner, her ability to manoeuvre in the air and to land short range missiles together on target is unparalleled. Most consider her the top ace of the Obsidian Angels. Combined with her genuine interest in and care toward her fellow Angels, Laks has a solid reputation. She was promoted to Captain two years ago and many wonder if she will be nominated as the next Executive Officer. The only things holding her back are her immaturity at times and her laissez-faire attitude toward rules enforcement. For an academy graduate, Lakshmi is not a very disciplined person. She enjoys battles, going to bars and parties. In fact, she enjoys parties so much she is usually the one organising them. Thankfully, her years as an officer and her schooling are both having a positive impact on her command capabilities. She leads confidently and communicates well even under fire. Her frontline strategies could use some work, but she excels in delivering hit and run raids and flanking efforts. This makes her an ideal choice to lead The Second Company, which is in fact known as the Raider Company.

Having apparently joined the unit immediately after academy graduation, it is widely known that she joined after the conclusion of the 3039 war. However, Lakshmi's heritage and background aren't particularly well known. Only a few of the Command staff have seen her application information and know the specifics. It is likely that she was part of what is currently Free Rasalhague Republic territory, which was once under Draconis Combine control. Her name suggests some Indian ancestry, as does her ability to speak Hindi, but Lakshmi doesn't like talking about her family. Trying to interrogate her about it is one of the few ways of upsetting her. The other is making her enforce strict discipline. In fact, Lakshmi will often look the other way if she sees something is off, or initially pretend she can't hear someone on duty calling her first name rather than her rank 'Captain'. Normally, these are the sorts of things that would greatly annoyed the unit's Sergeant Major, Monique, which might have caused them to be seen as rivals. However, around the Sergeant Major, Eric and other senior officers, Lakshmi begrudgingly keeps up appearances and insists upon proper behaviour, which means she does know what the unit's rules are. Outside their sight and hearing things are very different, with Lakshmi encouraging a friendly atmosphere and a loose approach to rule interpretation. This doesn't seem to matter whether she is on duty or off duty, although she can freely act this way when off duty without it bothering any of her peers too much. It is perhaps this approach to command that has caused Second Company to be known to have some behavioural and discipline issues. It is not entirely unjustified that the much more regimented 1st Company, some might say "hardass" (including Lakshmi), see them as either lazy or sloppy.

Lakshmi is a pretty young woman who has recently turned 30, putting her in her prime as a Mechwarrior. It also makes her a target of affection and of romance gossip, with a notable number of Angels taking an interest in her romantic life. While she has been known to get handsy with the right atmosphere and person, and alcohol in her system, Lakshmi has steadfastly remained officially single over the last ten years. This has meant turning down a few would be suitors. If she does want anything it is either casual, or perhaps she is waiting for just the right person. That aside, there are many ways of making Lakshmi happy and she would call many in the unit her friends. Partying, often organised with and enjoyed alongside her close friend Tessa, is something she is well known for. It has become tradition that she puts together the biggest and best parties each year, such as New Years and a Summer Bash. She also enjoys music, sports (especially water sports), punk fashion, gaming, magazines, gossip and anything to do with roleplay and board games. This wide variety of interests usually ensures there is always something mutually fun she can talk about with those she meets. Yet, her greatest interest is undoubtedly her personal mech, a reliable Wolverine WVR-6M she has named Lucky Strike. It suits her fighting style and her physique, where for once her small stature is a benefit. Whenever she can she will take it out for a ride, resulting in her going on more patrols than she needs to. This often leads to her asking others in her lance to accompany her, as she has been told off before for leaving without escort. In combat she sometimes makes the same mistake, but her excellent skills and her mech's mobility have always ensured she gets out of trouble. If anything she is usually the cavalry arriving unexpectedly to help others. That she has an otherwise unseen glee in battle is something known only to her lance mates.

Connections: Lakshmi Kaala is an Influence 2 Connection. She may be purchased at any level of Devotion with sufficient justification.

[Tessa Wentworth]

Name: Tessa Wentworth
Rank: First Lieutenant
Occupation: Chief Administrator
Height: 5'6
Hair: Long blonde hair
Eyes: Blue/grey
Age: 29
Build: Slim

It was blind luck that Tessa ended up applying to the Obsidian Angels for a role and being accepted after a single promising interview. Everything else in her life has been achieved with a great deal of effort and adroitness on her part. As the Chief Administrator for the Obsidian Angels, Tessa has a large amount of power within the unit. Much more than any other First Lieutenant. Every purchase order, every contract discussion and amendment, every salary authorisation and so on. All of that requires her involvement. This means she sees everything. It's a position requiring a great deal of attention to detail and trust. That she claimed it so quickly speaks volumes to her excellent performance and abilities. Tessa went from graduate newcomer in a junior position to Chief Administrator in less than 8 years. Completing paperwork correctly and quickly comes to her as naturally as music does to a songwriter. Alas, Tessa would bemoan that the skills are not viewed equally by society at large. For all her excellence in managing others within Administration, finishing her tasks, making recommendations and keeping up engagement and good communications with various third parties, Tessa wishes her life was more glamorous. Over time her resume has become more impressive yet mercenary life has been the opposite.

You'd expect travel, adventure, a hint of danger and plenty of riches to be won, right? Not for an Administrator. This is something Tessa learned early on. As a mercenary, there is a lot of downtime for most other staff. The paperwork doesn't stop. Then comes the travel, which is both slow and cramped. Not to mention seeing space gets old, fast. When you finally arrive at your destination it usually gets worse, as most places aren't worth visiting. They're either unbreathable, dangerous to a fault, too cold or too hot. The adventure part is only possible on a few jobs and only for some staff. Certainly not administrators. Danger is mostly something that happens on the frontline and rarely. The only major upside for Tessa in terms of the job has been the pay, which is more than competitive. This is a good thing, and one of Eric's wisest moves, as Tessa would have been long gone otherwise. Even now, when particularly bored, she might check job listings elsewhere. It isn't that she is greedy, but more that there isn't much to do. That leads to entertaining grass is greener thoughts. Thankfully, Tessa is motivated by bonuses, gifts and excitement. Her job provides the bonuses, other staff and a few admirers often sweeten her day with snacks and small gifts, and she has made some good friends. The biggest is Captain Kaala, who she affectionately calls Lala in private. Often seen together, whether gossiping or hanging out when off duty, the two plan all major Angels' social events. Tessa is glad for someone showing initiative to help and Lakshmi is glad to consult someone who knows what they're doing. This has led to a range of fun activities for the whole crew. It also provides just enough excitement for Tessa to keep her content. As much as she works hard she plays hard too.

Much of her personality can be understood by her background, which is fairly common knowledge as she isn't one to avoid the subject. Born as the third daughter to a banker and a doctor on a major urban planet in the Federated Suns, a university education was practically expected of the young girl. She excelled in her studies throughout her childhood, even surpassing the achievements of both her sisters, but when it came time to attend university she went for a fairly mundane Business Management course. Nowadays, she regrets this a little bit, although it does seem she'll be able to retire early if she wants. This doesn't stop her from wondering what might have been if she studied Medicine, Law or perhaps Astro Physics. Needless to say, she was quite studious. Even now she has quite the smattering of scholarly and practical knowledge. The universe seemed full of possibility to her ten years ago. These days Tessa is nearly 30 and her viewpoint has shifted. One major change is that she has begun looking for a serious relationship. In her favour are her girl next door looks. When she isn't looking merely professional in the office, and she actually puts in some effort, she is stunning. However, unlike the naturally confident Laks, Tessa is far less sure of herself. Her hobbies include yoga, dancing, learning languages, listening to audio books and firing guns to blow off steam. She is a terrible cook and a remarkably light weight drinker.

Connections: Tessa Wentworth is an Influence 2 Connection. She may be purchased at any level of Devotion with sufficient justification.

[Krisztofer Amasi]

Name: Krisztofer Amasi
Rank: None
Occupation: Local informant
Height: 5'10
Hair: Brown, very short
Eyes: Dark Green
Age: 30s (Unknown)
Build: Sturdy

Krisztofer, or just Kris for short, is a trucker on Csesztreg. He is also pro Lyran and an informant working for the AFFC. Further details about him are hard to come by for the Obisidian Angels, who have only been made aware of him thanks to their assigned Liaison Officer. One thing that is known is that he is currently on the continent of Akos and that he knows a great deal about both it and the Militia garrison there. It is expected that he'll rendezvous with the Angels not too long after touchdown. Across Csesztreg he is one of a handful of people aware of what is coming. The unit's senior staff are keen to learn all they can from him.

Connections: Krisztofer Amasi would be an Influence 1 Connection, but he may not be purchased as a Connection by starting player characters.

[Monique McConnel]

Name: Monique McConnel
Rank: Sergeant Major
Occupation: Mechwarrior
Callsign: Shiltron
Height: 6'5
Hair: Black, short with a long braid on the back
Eyes: Brown
Age: 35
Build: Large and intimidating

Sergeant Major Monique McConnel is the most disliked member of the Obsidian Angels. Some even hate her. The contempt held toward her is so strong and widespread that it isn't even a contest. On the other hand, the same could be said about her predecessor and her predecessor's predecessor and so on. To be a Sergeant Major is to be someone without friends. The reason for this is what a Sergeant Major does and stands for. Ensuring discipline, reminding everyone of the rules and that they are abided, punishing those that break these rules or are undisciplined, ensuring orders are followed, that chain of command is respected, that unit members have tasks to do and keep busy and organised. You get the idea. In short, a Sergeant Major is someone everyone comes to loathe. If you're late to something important, if you're not displaying the unit logo on duty, if your appearance or behaviour would bring the unit into disrepute, if you're trying to laze about on the job... well, then she is your natural enemy. As you might imagine, this inevitably leads to her being the natural enemy to most Angels one way or another. That's because Monique is dedicated to her role and playing the bad guy. Aided by her large stature, fierce glare and impossibly loud voice when needed, she is the perfect hardass. Where the unit's Staff Sergeant is described by many as a lovable giant, Monique is spoken about in terms such as Amazonian, She-Hulk, Warrior B***H and Tyrant. Those are the more flattering choices. Of course, Monique has heard it all before and dealt with a wide range of shit and difficult situations that most couldn't begin to imagine. She's made of stern stuff and she knows it. Six years in the Free Worlds League Military (FWLM), where she fought in battles before being transferred to a base as a Drill Sergeant, and over ten years as a mercenary with the Angels and the Azure Fangs mean she has a lot of experience. She's also a veteran Mechwarrior with a reputation for brutal close combat take downs.

Yet, all of this is very superficial. Very, very few know the real Monique. For all her absolute control and stern demeanour, Monique's outer shell is in danger of cracking. She hasn't seen the signs yet, but Eric has. The two have a good relationship and have had ever since Monique declined a promotion to Officer and directly asked for the Sergeant Major job. At the time, the previous occupant had been killed in action along with some others, and the unit's morale was low as they sought to hunt down pirates and force them into a battle. There had been a lot of guerrilla attacks on the unit and they weren't used to it. Solid chains of command and discipline were needed. Monique was an ideal choice and she took on the mask, the villain of the Angels if you will, with overbearing gusto. The unit's faltering steps were corrected. The once elusive pirates were brought to battle and neutralised as clear thinking and organisation restored. In particular, the First Company became an incredibly rigid and dutiful lot. What's more, they became proud of that fact, seeing themselves as the sturdy, reliable core of the unit. Ever since, Monique continued to be the bad guy and disciplinarian. This immensely benefitted the Angels, but it has gradually left the woman behind the mask unknowingly lonely and isolated. The only issue is that few have the force of character for the role. Like a truly good heel in wrestling, it takes more than someone who can act tough. It needs to be convincing and powerful. If there was a suitable replacement known to him, Eric would have forced a promotion on Monique with an aim of reuniting her with the unit gradually. That there hasn't quite been, in his opinion, is starting to become a problem. Often, a Sergeant Major would have other avenues of support, such as similar colleagues in a Regiment sized command or bigger, family or a lover. Monique has none of these things. Again, few know or appreciate this.

Therefore, to most, Monique is a dreaded face to see or voice to hear. Even off duty, when in the gym keeping herself fit or going to the simulators, she is usually left well alone. People stop talking and rooms clear. If she is in the canteen all the conversations become quieter. This has led to her often choosing to eat in her quarters. In battle she pilots a Grand Dragon, something not normally associated with someone from the Free Worlds League, but she is very adept in its use. Its speed also allows her to act as a mobile cavalry when she isn't assigned as bodyguard to the CO. This has led to her coming to the rescue of others a few time, and putting herself directly in harms way to do so, which has resulted in her having the odd good word spoken about her. Nonetheless, this remains the minority. Many instead see it as the Staff Sergeant loving a good scrap, which is partly true too. Monique carries herself like a fighter even outside the cockpit and she is one of the best hand to hand combatants in the entire unit. She is an expert kickboxer and she often joins sparring sessions with the Angel's infantry. Some have observed that she and Laks stay out of each others' way. This could be by chance, but after some years it is clear it is by agreement. Those with a military or police background might have enough awareness to identify this for what it is: a heel can't interfere too much in a face's efforts to please the crowd. It's good cop, bad cop. To everyone else, Monique is much worse than a bad cop, since they tend not to have jurisdiction over mercenaries. The Sergeant Major certainly does and she'll make you wish you were in prison if you really step out of line.

Connections: Monique McConnel is an Influence 2 Connection. She may only be purchased with a Devotion of 1.

[GM Yuusha]

Lesser NPCs


Name: Kurt Guttenberg
Rank: Hauptmann (Captain) in the Armed Forces of the Federated Commonwealth (AFFC)
Occupation: AFFC Liaison Officer to the Obsidian Angels
Callsign: GTB1
Height: 6'1
Hair: Short, blonde
Age: Early 40s
Build: Sturdy shoulders, fit

Kurt is the Liaison Officer between the Obsidian Angels and the Armed Forces of the Federated Commonwealth, which means he is the go to person for anything relating to the contract the unit has signed. This could be negotiating any logistical particulars the unit needs, resolving an unforeseen issue or requesting support. Likewise, Kurt will relay any directives or needs the AFFC have. Tall, broad shouldered and uptight, Kurt is a Baron and therefore a minor noble in Lyran society. Although he attended Academy training, Kurt has no direct combat experience and his mech, an impressive Atlas, seems to be for show. He is accompanied by a small entourage of assistants and guards. When off duty he keeps to himself, though he has been observed striking up conversations with others he recognises as his peers. That is to say, nobles. Toward commoners he is very aloof and cold. This has immediately put him at odds with the Obsidian Angels' CO. Fortunately for both men, Kurt is very much about objectives, while Eric is very much about achieving them. So far they've managed a fair working relationship. One might think that Kurt being accompanied by his daughter, Lia, would give them something in common to talk about. Sadly, Lia's sometimes challenging behaviour has only caused headaches for both men.

Connections: Kurt Guttenberg is an Influence 2 Connection. He may only be purchased up to Devotion 2 by those with a Lyran Origin, and Devotion 1 by anyone else with a Noble Scion Background.


Name: Iria Nopera
Rank: First Lieutenant
Occupation: Chief Intelligence Officer
Height: 6'2
Hair: Long, black
Age: Late 30s
Build: Slim

Iria graduated as a War Studies major from a University in the Free Worlds League before entering mercenary life. More a scholar than a fighter, she is a strategist and intelligence analyst, which suits her role as Chief Intelligence Officer perfectly. She has been this for some years now. One point of note is that she is very assertive and sure of her predictions and recommendations, but otherwise she is quite shy and somewhat socially awkward. A tall woman, many don't realise this at first as she has an unfortunate tendency to stoop. She also dresses very conservatively and rarely interacts with those outside her area. If this wasn't the case and in another life, her model like figure and good looks might have meant a career as a celebrity. Iria is aware of this, but she doesn't feel she can change herself as easily as she can change a strategic impasse. Her inexperience with romance and crippling uncertainty around the other sex are part of the reason why she locks herself away in her office much of the time. The other is that she does genuinely enjoy her work. Now, if only she could become more persuasive...

Connections: Iria Nopera is an Influence 2 Connection. She may only be purchased at Devotion 1.


Name: Steffen Jonassen
Rank: Staff Sergeant
Occupation: Mechwarrior
Callsign: Double Tap
Height: 6'4
Hair: Short, brown
Age: Late 40s
Build: Large, broad and bear-like

Steffen is the Obsidian Angel's Staff Sergeant. This puts him in charge of training all new Mechwarriors and keeping everyone else drilled and sharp. For such a big man, Steffen is very easy going. He is an excellent tutor having once been a school teacher. How he ended up in the Obsidian Angels is a long story, but he is very good at his job. He often uses the unit's Chameleon mech to train newcomers, although in combat he pilots a Blackjack. This mech, a prized BJ-3, is one of the few upgraded mechs the unit has and it cost a pretty penny to acquire. Steffen's ability to repeatedly land PPC shots has justified the expense. He currently serves in 1st Company and spends much of his time checking each Company is battle ready. As one of the first Angels many newcomers meet, he has ended up a confidant and friend to many members of the unit. A man of many talents, one of his passions in life is mixology. In his off duty time he can often be found at the bar, but only not drinking; he is usually behind it, making drinks and offering a friendly ear and advice.

Connections: Steffen Jonassen is an Influence 2 Connection. He may be purchased at any level of Devotion with sufficient justification.


Name: Sosanna Giannou
Rank: Senior Captain
Occupation: Dropship Commander
Height: 5'4
Hair: Blonde, curly, long
Age: Early 50s
Build: Curvy

Sosanna is the Senior Captain of the Obsidian Angels' fleet. This means she is not only a dropship commander, but the overall commander and decision maker of all air units and dropships under the Obsidian Angels. In many ways she is Eric's de facto number 2. She in fact owns a large share of the flagship Overlord dropship Angels' Descent, as well as commanding it. It is for all these reasons that her increasingly relaxed behaviour of late is concerning. Many see her as acting like she is retired. It's highly likely she plans to announce her retirement after the current contract concludes. In fact, it wouldn't surprise many if she had handed in her notice already. Before this, Sosanna was a much more disciplined and astute officer for decades. Nowadays she can be found wandering her ship, wearing casual clothes at all times and generally enjoying herself. While she does still attend command meetings and make valuable suggestions, it's obvious her head is no longer fully in the game. She nonetheless commands a great deal of respect for her historic record of safety and successful operations. Anyone that speaks to her about anything to do with aviation soon realises just how much knowledge and experience she has... even if she would now prefer to be gardening somewhere. Her profound number of contacts across the Inner Sphere is a source of amazement for many. Even Tessa has acknowledged just how extensive Sosanna's contact list is, though she is sworn to secrecy on the particulars.

Connections: Sosanna Giannou is an Influence 4 Connection. She may be purchased up to Devotion 2.


Name: Hank Beck
Rank: Sergeant
Occupation: Quartermaster
Height: 5'10
Hair: Black, short, mohawk-like
Age: Early 30s
Build: Average

Hank is the unit's Quartermaster and has been for nearly seven years. This technically puts him in charge of most of the unit's equipment, albeit not the ammunition (which falls to the Gunnery Sergeant). In reality he sees to everything since a few months ago when the Gunnery Sergeant abruptly retired. That post still needs filling. While it isn't ideal for one person to be in charge of the guns and the ammunition, Hank has a reputation for trustworthiness and duty among the unit's senior staff. To a majority of those of lower rank the truth is known; he is actually one of the biggest fixers in the unit. Whether other staff truly don't know this or turn a blind eye doesn't matter. If you need anything off the record, Hank is one of the few people that can make arrangements. This, his impeccable personal hygiene and his competence are about the only three redeeming qualities he has. Hank is a cynical, petty and snarky young man with a mean streak. Anything he can do costs money or favours, and he ensures those who owe him pay up with the steadfastness of a determined comic book vigilante. Those few people he calls an acquaintance are probably just as sly as him.

Connections: Hank Beck is an Influence 2 Connection. He may be purchased up to Devotion 1.


Name: Lia Guttenburg
Rank: None
Occupation: None
Height: 5'9
Hair: Auburn, long
Age: 19
Build: Slim

Lia is Kurt's oldest daughter and a teenager soon due to enter adulthood. This would ordinarily have involved a debut at a high society event or perhaps Academy training. However, since her youth she has been rebellious. In fact, she still is. This has ruled out both options. While she has a younger brother who is an ideal young nobleman, her father hasn't quite given up on Lia just yet. It was hoped that accompanying her father in his duties and seeing their importance first hand, at a warzone but safely away from the front, would knock some sense into her. The jury is out on whether this was a good idea, but it does at least allow him to keep something of an eye on her. So far she has proven just as much a troublemaker here as everywhere else. She likes to mooch around where she isn't supposed to and she has no regard for rank or whether others are busy. She only cares about satisfying her curiosity and avoiding boredom. On the other hand, Lia is a chatty young woman with a lot of spunk and zero of the usual trappings of nobility. This endears her to many. Unlike her father, she is warm and unafraid of showing her emotions. Quite how she became this way is a mystery. For now, Lia is an unofficial attaché to the Obsidian Angels.

Connections: Lia Guttenburg is an Influence 1 Connection. She may be purchased up to Devotion 2 by those with a Lyran Origin, or Devotion 1 to anyone else.


Name: Annalena Voelker
Rank: Honorary Corporal (None)
Occupation: Lady of fun and mischief
Height: 4'5
Hair: Long, brown
Age: 9

Annalena, or just Anna, is the CO's daughter and an Honorary Corporal in the Obsidian Angels. This isn't an actual rank, but many do call her 'Corporal Annalena' and she is given the freedom to meander and explore. She has been known to cause some mischief. This includes hiding items, trying to sneak into places she shouldn't be and climbing up, well, anything. She's a precocious child as she has a wide knowledge about weapons, Mechs and Tanks. Within five minutes of knowing her it is quite obvious she is a mercenary brat. Energetic, highly inquisitive and teasing, Anna is generally well liked or at least tolerated. She can often be seen running about through the hallways when she isn't accompanied by her father or a minder. Often, she'll end up being scolded and picked up by her father, Monique or sometimes Steffen and escorted to the CO's office to study. Her home schooling, more dropship schooling really, is proceeding well in all the practical subjects, but anything theoretical and Anna loses interest. Anna is a very tactile and visual learner. Things that she can do or see she picks up quick. This is probably why her father refuses to let her enter his Battlemaster's cockpit. If you do see Anna, try to keep her out of too much trouble. Also, don't ask about her mother unless you enjoy upsetting children (you monster).

Connections: Annalena Voelker is an Influence 1 Connection. She may be purchased at any level of Devotion with sufficient justification.


Name: Usov Lev Vasilievich
Rank: First Lieutenant
Occupation: Aerospace Pilot
Callsign: U L V
Height: 5'8
Hair: Shortish brown
Age: Mid 20s
Build: Toned, slim and not unlike a Greek Adonis

Usov is one of the biggest flirts in the Obsidian Angels. This is worth stating before anything else. If you're pretty and female then he'll probably hit on you. Is likely already hitting on you. Hopefully you're single. If not, well, he probably didn't know that. Think you're safe because you're male? Nope. He will flirt with you too, if you give him a chance. It's just his nature. Usov is very complimentary, exceedingly friendly and a natural charmer. Not everyone enjoys this, but those that do wish he'd do more than just hint. Usov's affections are a hot topic of gossip in the unit. On a less important note he's one of the Angels' few aerospace pilots and a gifted one at that. So competent and professional is he when piloting that he recently became the Flight Lead for all four Aerospace Fighters the unit has in working order. Something of a show off, Usov is almost as graceful in the air as he is on the ground. When not flirting or inviting others out for some one on one time, such as a meal together (he's an excellent cook), Usov can be found in the gym or the simulators. His physique and his effectiveness as a pilot are both things he works surprisingly hard at. Usov is someone who can only do things at full throttle or not at all. While his behaviour has caused drama at times, he is quick to recognise when he isn't wanted or is at fault. He is also sensible enough to back off at those times or apologise.

Connections: Usov Lev Vasilievich is an Influence 1 Connection. He may be purchased at any level of Devotion with sufficient justification.


Name: Jamarco Fausett
Rank: Private
Occupation: Mechwarrior
Callsign: Drippy
Height: 6'0
Hair: Short, dyed azure
Age: 20
Build: Average

Jamarco is the grandson of one of the Azure Fangs' soldiers who co-founded the Obsidian Angels. He is quite proud of this heritage and he dyes his hair blue to honour it. While his parents now work on Solaris VII and his grandfather retired a couple of years ago, Jamarco stuck with the Angels so that he could achieve his dream of being a Mechwarrior. This is something he feels incredibly passionate about. As it goes, he does have the knack. To the surprise of many he managed to mutually destroy the Sergeant Major in a simulated duel when he was 19, albeit he did have the superior mech as a handicap. Since then he has been learning the ropes under Steffen and he has become a competent Mechwarrior. The only thing now holding him back is the combination of his terrible tactical sense, poor navigational skill and his misfortune. Jamarco is fine when following orders and following lance mates, but when left to his own devices he often becomes a liability. If this doesn't change it could mean his Mechwarrior career is cut short, one way or another.

Connections: Jamarco Fausett is an Influence 1 Connection. He may be purchased up to Devotion 2.


Name: Kenna Gaudin
Rank: Senior First Lieutenant
Occupation: Chief Mechtech
Height: 5'9
Hair: Short, grey, balding
Age: 70s
Build: Slim

When not watching recordings of old shows, Kenna is the Chief Mechtech for the Obsidian Angels. In this role he is incredibly efficient and creative, his knowledge of mechs, repairs and workarounds top notch. He also likes to work alone. Sometimes he oversees other work, offering a critique. A good mechtech heeds it. Kenna can fix a mech or alter it on his own in half the time some of the teams can do it working together. Every time saving trick there is he knows. Some he even came up with from scratch. If he quotes you half a day to get a damaged mech back in the field he can probably get it done in less. Yet just because Kenna can do something quicker doesn't mean he'll rush. He takes things slow and methodical. It's just that what is slow for him is fast for many technicians. However, it does help that he has been working on mechs for well over fifty years. Job aside, Kenna can be a challenging individual. He's prideful, verbose about the good old days and quick to criticise others' decisions. This is especially true for those younger than him, which is everyone. He is tolerated (and it doesn't help that he is usually right), but he isn't greatly liked. On the other hand he continues to be trusted to oversee the most difficult mech work, which should say a lot. Lately he has been talking about fully customising a mech so he can cross that action off his bucket list.

Connections: Kenna Gaudin would be an Influence 2 Connection, but he may not be purchased as a Connection by starting player characters.

[GM Yuusha]

Minor NPCs

Minor NPCs can be taken as Connections. Ask the GM for specifics for any that you may be interested in.

Captain Aliyu - Commands the 3rd Company. An older man who suffered a serious spinal injury in the Angels' last deployment. He is currently resting in the medical deck, where he is expected to make a very slow recovery.

Sergeant Portman - Commands the unit's two artillery vehicles in the support company, where he handles firing calculations and such. He is a port middle aged man. This fits his name well, which he is the first to joke about.

First Lieutenant Harris - A tanker who is responsible for the Angels' support company vehicles. A real grease monkey who loves everything to do with vehicles. He is a competent technician.

Second Lieutenant Nakamura - Vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) pilot from the Draconis Combine. Swears like a sailor, but flies well. She is technically in charge of both VTOLs in the support company. She loves her Attack Helicopter however.

Captain Ricci - Leads the unit's infantry platoons and is largely responsible for the footsloggers' actions. A somewhat dour individual with a morbid sense of humour.

Senior First Lieutenant Daniels - A quiet man who enjoys solitude. He's very atypical for a mechwarrior. He commands decently enough and his Awesome's PPCs are on point, but he otherwise leaves the 5th Company to themselves.

Captain Twain - Commands the Union dropship Redoubtable. A cheerful yet mysterious young woman who can often be found humming older songs.

Captain Blunden - Commands the Union dropship Big Bertha. The youngest dropship captain. An expert at fleet tactics and very knowledgeable. Also extremely clumsy.

Captain Sommerville - Commands the Leopard dropship Midnight Miracle. Named it himself. Enjoys engaging in night and special operations. Delegates much of his work outside of combat.

More may be added.