Just a group of bagheads trying to make it to the next fix.
The History of the High Orbit Smackheads
Origins in Hartlepool (2876)
The story of the High Orbit Smackheads (HOS) begins in 2876, in the industrial town of Hartlepool in the North East of England. This area had long been neglected, victim to economic downturns and the deindustrialization of the region. Disillusioned with the prospects of mundane lives, a group of local drug addicts, largely marginalized and stigmatized by society, began to form an unlikely bond. They were drawn together by their shared experiences and the harsh realities of addiction, finding a sense of community among themselves.
As the global drug crisis worsened, the local authorities clamped down on drug use, pushing the community deeper into the shadows. It was during this tumultuous time that the seeds of an audacious idea were planted: what if they could escape Earth and the oppressive weight of their circumstances? They began to fantasize about a life beyond their grim reality, one where the skies were no longer bound by gravity or societal norms.
The Dream of Space Piracy (2877-2884)
In 2877, after a particularly wild night fueled by a potent blend of narcotics, one member of the group happened to stumble upon an old space exploration documentary on a discarded television screen. This sparked a collective vision of becoming space pirates—freedom seekers who could traverse the cosmos without the constraints of their earthly addictions. The name ‘High Orbit Smackheads’ was birthed from this delirious discussion, embodying their dream of rising above their struggles.
With the help of the local tech-savvy prodigies—young hackers and engineers who had turned to drugs as an escape from their own disappointments—they began to build makeshift spacecraft. They salvaged parts from abandoned vehicles and scrounged for technology, often relying on a network of fellow addicts and outcasts for support. Fueled by their hopes (and often their vices), they gradually transformed their hallucinations into a tangible prototype for a spacecraft they dubbed the “Heroin Hawk.”
The First Voyage (2885)
By 2885, after nearly five years of makeshift engineering and enthusiastic trial-and-error, the Heroin Hawk was finally ready for its maiden voyage. The crew consisted of a motley group of individuals, each with skill sets shaped by their struggles but united by a common goal. As they launched into the cosmos, they left behind visions of despair, convinced that their drug-fueled revelries would now be spent exploring the universe.
The initial journey was chaotic, but it opened a new realm of possibilities. They encountered debris from old space missions, some of which contained valuable ancient tech, as well as vessels that once belonged to failed space entrepreneurs. Taking these as prizes, they honed their skills in scavenging and began to identify themselves as a modern-day pirate crew.
The Rise of High Orbit Smackheads (2915)
As their notoriety grew, so did their ranks. The High Orbit Smackheads attracted a variety of misfits, artists, and other disenfranchised individuals from across the solar system. Each new member brought unique skills—whether lucrative or hazardous—that enhanced the crew. They soon developed a reputation for fearless approaches, with stories of their escapades spreading quickly.
They became known for raiding cargo ships, siphoning off supplies, and redistributing their ‘pirate booty’ to outcasts and marginalized communities scattered throughout the solar system. Though they were seen by some as rogue criminals, many regarded them as folk heroes, liberating goods trapped in the corporate stranglehold of the interplanetary economy.
The New Empire of Freedom (2920-2930)
By the late 2930, the High Orbit Smackheads had established a makeshift empire in the Stanton System, where they set up a central hub known as “Smackhaven.” Here, they created a sanctuary for adventurers and addicts alike, providing them a chance to escape the conventions of the UEE and explore their own freedom.
Their lifestyle came with its challenges. Addiction was still a central part of their existence, and internal conflicts surfaced. Yet, their experiences fueled a sense of creativity and resilience that bound them together. They had turned their pain and struggles into an art form, producing music, visual art, and literature infused with the raw realities of life as space pirates.
Legacy and Myth (2954 and Beyond)
As the decades progressed, the legends of the High Orbit Smackheads became part of the fabric of spacefaring culture. Their stories inspired films, novels, and even virtual reality experiences that depicted the highs and lows of pirate life among the stars. While they were never fully accepted by mainstream society, their tale became a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the pursuit of freedom in the face of adversity.
Today, as they traverse the cosmos, the High Orbit Smackheads continue to embody both the beauty and tragedy of human experience, proving that even in the depths of addiction, one can find camaraderie, purpose, and the dream of soaring high above the stars.
High Orbit Smackheads Operational Policies
1. Code of Conduct
All members must adhere to the “Pirate’s Code,” which emphasizes loyalty, respect, and camaraderie among crew members.
Betrayal of a crew member will result in expulsion from the gang and potential retaliation.
2. Recruitment
New members must be vetted by existing members and demonstrate their skills (e.g., piloting, combat, or engineering).
Each recruit must complete an initiation task to prove their loyalty and commitment to the gang’s mission.
3. Mission Prioritization
Prioritize targets based on merchant value, political significance, and potential loot.
Avoid unnecessary confrontation with heavily armed military vessels unless absolutely necessary.
4. Loot Distribution
Loot acquired during missions will be split evenly among crew members, with a percentage allocated for ship repairs and supplies.
A vote will be held on any major loot decisions, ensuring transparency and fairness.
5. Ship Maintenance and Operation
Maintenance duties will be assigned on a rotating basis to ensure that the ship remains combat-ready.
All crew members must be trained in basic ship operations and emergency protocols.
6. Inter-Gang Relations
Maintain amicable relations with other pirate gangs and factions, fostering temporary alliances when necessary.
Avoid crossing paths with known rival gangs without strategic planning.
7. Drug Protocol
Use of recreational substances is permitted but must not interfere with mission responsibilities or crew safety.
A designated “high officer” will regulate usage and monitor members to ensure no one is a danger to themselves or others.
8. Dispute Resolution
Conflicts among crew members must be brought to the attention of a designated mediator, usually a senior member or captain.
If disputes cannot be resolved peacefully, a “manly duel” (or simulated combat) may be arranged to settle differences.
9. Intelligence and Reconnaissance
Each crew member is responsible for gathering intel on potential targets, sharing findings with the crew.
Use stealth and discretion when conducting reconnaissance to avoid drawing attention to the gang.
10. Emergency Protocols
In the event of ship damage or capture, crew members are trained to follow a predefined escape plan.
A distress signal will be sent to allied ships for potential rescue if the situation allows.
11. Plunder Ethics
Avoid harming innocent bystanders or civilians; only target those involved in trade or military operations.
Respect the ancient relics and artifacts; any valuable discoveries should be documented and turned into the pirate treasury.
12. Self-Preservation
The safety of crew members comes first; if a mission seems too risky, reevaluate and consider retreat.
Maintain reserves of fuel and provisions for unexpected emergencies.
Conclusion
These operational policies aim to establish accountability and structure within the High Orbit Smackheads while embracing the anarchic spirit of piracy. Following these guidelines will help ensure the gang’s longevity and success in their high-flying adventures across the cosmos.
Charter of the High Orbit Smackheads
Preamble
We, the intrepid spacefarers of the cosmos, united under the banner of the High Orbit Smackheads, hereby declare our commitment to a life of adventure, mischief, and the pursuit of fortune among the stars. With our ships sailing the celestial seas and our hearts fueled by rebellion, we vow to uphold the principles enshrined in this charter while embracing the thrill of the high seas of space.
Article I: Name and Identity
Section 1: The name of this organization shall be “High Orbit Smackheads.”
Section 2: Our emblem shall depict a skull wearing a space helmet, crossed by two blasters, with stars and nebulas emblazoned in the background.
Article II: Purpose
The High Orbit Smackheads exist to:
Explore uncharted territories of the universe in search of plunder and privateering opportunities.
Defy the oppressive forces of authority and ensure the freedom of all spacefaring souls.
Build a tight-knit community of like-minded individuals who embrace the pirate spirit.
Engage in acts of flamboyant rebelliousness, maintaining a reputation that inspires awe and fear across the galaxy.
Article III: Membership
Section 1: Eligibility
Membership is open to any brave soul willing to embrace the pirate code, including but not limited to: rogues, free-spirits, adventurers, and those with an aptitude for mischief and or recreational substance abuse.
Section 2: Oath of the Smackhead
All members shall take the following oath upon joining:
“I pledge my loyalty to the High Orbit Smackheads, to sail the stars in rebellion, to share in the spoils, and to uphold our code. I embrace the chaos and will never get high on ones own supply!”
Article IV: Code of Conduct
Respect the Crew: Every member shall treat their shipmates with respect and loyalty, forging bonds of brotherhood/sisterhood in times of peril.
Share the Spoils: Treasure found shall be equitably divided among all members, ensuring fair distribution of wealth and glory.
Embrace the Chaos: Seek adventure and excitement, and don’t shy away from danger; the cosmos rewards the bold.
Defy the Authority: Resist the unjust forces of any oppressive government or galactic organization and stand up for the rights of all spacefarers.
Celebrate Life: Enjoy revelry and camaraderie; partaking in song, dance, and feasting is a right of every High Orbit Smackhead.
Article V: Leadership Structure
Colonel: The ultimate decision-maker, leading the crew into both battle and adventure.
Major: Assists the Colonel, coordinates the crew, and manages day to day operations.
Lieutenant: Responsible for day to day operations,point of command when major.colonel arent available.
Sergeant: Responsible for members and recruits during day to day activities
Member: Plays a vital role in the crew. Members will be trained in a feild that best suits their role!
Recruit: Newbie, here to prove why they deserve a spot within the ranks of the High Orbit Smackheads
Article VI: Amendments
This charter may be amended by a two-thirds vote of the membership during a designated “Cosmic Convocation,” where all members may present proposals. Amendments must reflect our values of freedom, camaraderie, and adventure.
Conclusion
By signing this charter, we, the High Orbit Smackheads, commit ourselves to a life of daring escapades among the stars. Together, we shall chart a course through the cosmos, leaving behind a legacy of chaos, laughter, and plunder for generations of space pirates to come!
Signed on this day, amidst the stars and beyond the fringes of the known universe.