The Raptors
Overview
The Raptors are an elite Tagmata platoon within the Ordis faction, commanded by Zhen. Under her leadership, the unit became known as the elite of the elite, distinguished by exceptional loyalty and esprit de corps.
Motto
“I am your shield, you are my spear.”
Command Structure
Zhen obtained command of the Raptors after a few years of service in the Tagmata. She pushed the platoon to excellence, creating an exceptional military formation where loyalty to one’s brothers and sisters in arms went beyond the usual bounds of Ordis camaraderie.
Training and Operations
Zhen accompanied the Raptors in all their training, shared their bivouacs, and led assaults alongside them. This hands-on leadership style fostered mutual respect between the officer and her soldiers, contributing to the unit’s reputation.
The Raptors’ performance earned Zhen promotion to Commodore under Rear Admiral Gaj, then to Rear Admiral herself.
Equipment and Capabilities
Raptors use origami-style paper wings created through seals entrusted to them by Zhen. These wings unfurl from their shoulder blades when activated by pressing Glyphs to their chests, allowing aerial reconnaissance and flight. The wings fold back into loose sheets that scatter when the seals are removed. Members also deploy paper heralds for communication purposes.
Timeline
393 AC - Expeditionary Fleet Launch
The Raptors conducted aerial reconnaissance over The Tumult ahead of the Expeditionary Corps fleet launch, with Zephyr leading the scouting squadron through the clouds. Upon returning to Mandjet, Osoyo reported stable Tumult winds to Zhen. As tradition, the entire squadron snapped to attention and pressed their Glyphs to their chests, unfurling paper wings toward the heavens in salute before Zhen issued the fleet-wide command to proceed.
Relationships
- Zhen: Commander and Rear Admiral who built the unit’s elite reputation
- Zephyr: Zhen’s Alter Ego who leads reconnaissance missions (393 AC)
- Osoyo: Member who reported reconnaissance findings (393 AC)
- Aedyt: Alterer member (393 AC)
- Tagmata: Parent organization within Ordis special forces
- Ordis: Faction the Raptors serve
- Mandjet: Ship serving as operational headquarters (393 AC)