Since the inception of space exploration, many of the men and women who journeyed into space had been active or former military personnel.  With the advent of SEDA in the mid-21st century, and particularly in light of its proposed defense role, it was decided that the agency should adopt military ranks and culture of its own.  One school of thought advocated the use of Air Force terminology, given that space-going vehicles were designed and operated much like aircraft.  The prevailing view, however, held that naval terminology would be most appropriate given the anticipated complexity and long service requirements of future spacecraft.  With various operational departments and crew living aboard the vessels for years at a time, it was argued that the traditional culture and structure of navies from around the world would provide the best analog.  Sometimes derisively called “Trekkies,” these naval proponents ultimately won out.  Today, SEDA personnel carry on the ancient traditions of sea-farers, adapting them to the times, and adding some of their own.

See also Ranks

The Mercurials has been viewed by over 1,000 unique visitors since July 1, 2007.  It’s been fascinating to see people from all over the world dropping by to check out the comic.  We hope you continue to enjoy the story and the characters.  Things should really start to get interesting in Chapter 2 (coming soon)!

You can now download a zip file containing all of Chapter 01: “The Fell of Dark.”  Go to the Episodes page and look for the link under the chapter’s title.

This archive also contains scripts, Before and After pics so you can get some sense of how we compose the shots, and a LEGO Digital Designer file of the micro-scale model of the ship.

Consider this your “Special Edition DVD” version of Chapter 01!  ;)

The final episode of Chapter One is now live.  In the next few days, we’ll be releasing a zip file that will include all of Chapter One and some “special features.”  In the meantime, enjoy the latest installment of The Mercurials!

We’ve added a new page offering information about the various characters in The Mercurials.  We’ll continue to add to it as new information is revealed.  Or we make it up.  Or both.  For instance, all of the characters now have first names!  Who knew?

The latest episode of The Mercurials online sci-fi comic is now available for your perusal.  Enjoy!

Episode 1:5 has been rescheduled to go live on Wednesday, August 29.  Please join us then as we build up to the finale of Chapter One.

I’ve added a new definition to the CERA section, which serves as our glossary.  It’s a definition for “3Vids” as mentioned by Koh in Episode 1:4.  While I was at it, I added references for that and other terms so you can see how they’re used in an episode.  Clicking the reference link will pop up a new window showing the first page where the term is used.

If there are any unusual words you’d like to see defined, let me know and I’ll put them on my list.

Episode 1:4 has been posted.  Enjoy responsibly

If you missed Episode 1:3, we introduced with it much improved dialogue and navigation systems.  A big “Thank You” to all the readers who contributed ideas.  We’re always glad to do what we can to make the story easier to follow, so please continue with the suggestions.

To give you a sense of where we are in the story, Chapter One, The Fell of Dark, will consist of a total of six parts, and Chapter Two is already being prepared.

Thanks for reading.  Enjoy the story…

Episode 1:1 has been updated to use our new avatar dialogue system.  The existing three episodes should all be easier to follow now.  Thanks to all who suggested improvements!