The story of Ascenden begins with the legendary mercenary group known as the Ten Thousand. Originating from ancient Greece, the Ten Thousand were a band of Greek mercenaries who fought for Cyrus the Younger in his campaign to seize the Persian throne from his brother, Artaxerxes II. Despite their remarkable prowess and resilience, the campaign ultimately failed, and the Ten Thousand found themselves stranded deep in enemy territory.

The Ten Thousand embarked on an arduous and perilous retreat through hostile lands, eventually reaching the safety of the Black Sea. This journey, known as the Anabasis, became a testament to their indomitable spirit and strategic brilliance.

With their return to Greek lands, the Ten Thousand disbanded, but their legacy did not end there. Some members, disillusioned by the constant warring and political turmoil of the Greek city-states, sought a new purpose. They believed that their skills and experience could be used for a higher cause — not just for the highest bidder but for the greater good of humanity.

The Birth of the Sentinels

This core group of warriors formed the Sentinels, a clandestine organization dedicated to manipulating global events to achieve stability and prosperity. They vowed to use their expertise in strategy, combat, and espionage to influence the rise and fall of empires, protect secret knowledge, and shape the course of history from the shadows.

Centuries of Influence

During Rome’s expansion, the Sentinels began to leave their mark on the world, then known as “Custodes.” They infiltrated the Senate and military commands, subtly shaping Roman policies from behind the scenes. Their influence extended to key campaigns against Carthage, Gaul, and other adversaries, ensuring Rome’s dominance in the Mediterranean and beyond. Through strategic manipulation and covert operations, the Sentinels played a crucial role in maintaining and expanding Roman power.

The Sentinels thrived during the Middle Ages, operating as mercenaries for feudal lords, participating in Crusades, and manipulating the politics of kingdoms and city-states. They safeguarded relics and artifacts of immense power, shaping the destiny of Europe through covert operations and strategic alliances.

With the resurgence of knowledge and exploration, the Sentinels facilitated trade routes, protected explorers, and ensured the flow of wealth and knowledge between continents. They influenced the discoveries of the New World, safeguarding ancient technologies discovered in the Americas.

During both World Wars, the Sentinels played pivotal roles in espionage, arms trade, and influencing global powers. They orchestrated intelligence operations, supported resistance movements, and profited from wartime economies.

The Sentinels capitalized on advancements in space technology during the Space Race. They infiltrated space agencies, influenced space policy, and secured contracts for space exploration and defense initiatives.

The advent of advanced AI, quantum computing, and biotechnologies provided opportunities for the Sentinels to acquire cutting-edge technologies. They covertly influenced research directions, acquired patents, and controlled access to revolutionary technologies.

Transition to the Stars

As humanity expanded into the cosmos, the Sentinels saw the need to evolve. The vast expanse of space presented new opportunities and challenges. While honoring their origins during the Roman era, the organization rebranded itself as Ascenden, meaning “to rise.” Navigating the complexities of galactic politics and societal evolution, Ascenden established itself as a shadowy architect of influence. Leveraging their ancient knowledge, combat prowess, and centuries-old traditions, they ensured their syndicate’s dominance in a universe ripe with opportunities and threats.

As pivotal players in Earth’s Unification Wars, the Ascendens strategically supported factions aspiring for unity. Their covert interventions included sabotage of opposing forces, manipulation of key figures, and orchestrating strategic victories that hastened the unification process. Their influence was instrumental in laying the groundwork for a centralized Earth government.

With Earth finally unified under a single banner, the Ascendens infiltrated governmental bodies, placing their operatives in key positions to influence policy and decision-making. Through subtle coercion and calculated diplomacy, they ensured that the growing United Empire of Earth evolved in ways favorable to their long-term goals.

During the Tevarin Conflict and the subsequent Second Tevarin War, the Ascendens leveraged their expertise in military strategy and arms trade. They supplied advanced weaponry to both UEE forces and Tevarin insurgents, profiting immensely from the conflict. Their covert support prolonged hostilities, ensuring a continuous flow of contracts and bolstering their influence within the military-industrial complex.

Facing the existential threat posed by the Vanduul, the Ascendens positioned themselves as indispensable defenders of humanity. They championed increased military expenditures, directing substantial resources toward defense initiatives that they controlled. Through their monopoly on advanced technology and logistical support, they shaped UEE military doctrine while expanding their influence across galactic sectors.

Legacy

From their origins as legendary warriors to architects of shadowy influence, the Ascendens have left an indelible mark on the course of human history. Their legacy as survivors of the Ten Thousand is steeped in secrecy, manipulation, and the relentless pursuit of power. In the vast expanse of the universe, they continue to operate from the shadows, shaping events and safeguarding their interests with ruthless efficiency.