I wouldn't say it's that dire, but the Confederation is the underdog. By odds of roughly 4:1 in terms of pure material, but I would argue we're in a better strategic position, since we're not spread everywhere trying to put down rebellions...
EDIT:
I'd thought I'd bring up some works of Imperial Intelligence, CSIS, and the SS to show exactly how each one is.
And TNO is not the bully. TNO is the pinnacle of order in the galaxy. We are the only form of government that has survived and consistently grown. The fact that we are on top evidences writing ability and quality, as well as strategical genius, not that we bully others into submission OOC. IC, yes, the Empire is still the Empire. But we don't do that OOC unless there is blatent cheating/TNO-bashing going on.
If you join the SS, I have any number of available positions, from leading a squadron of Kommandos to being in command of an infantry brigade or tank regiment, or even heading up a small but growing intelligence unit. In fact, if you want to do the latter, there will be a thread starting soon that will require your direct involvement.
If you want to discuss such options, PM me or IM me at spencerlovesgod. Hope to hear from you soon.
Okay, Corise... ;) You want to drop a thread I was involved in into the mix, I'll counter with another one...one that doesn't play up to the Confederation's questionable spin on things. :p
Also, I'd like to offer the new guy a helpful bit of advice: take your time before choosing where you want to go; you'll be better off for it, I promise. Beyond that, welcome aboard. :)
Classic TNO spin? Right. We always spin the truth.
Actually, I do have to admit, there are bullies among us who shall remain nameless. Well, bully. But that is an exception to the rule, I think. For the most part we like to see conflicts play out reasonably. And if you attack TNO, unless you have a darn good strategy, you should expect to lose at this time if only because we're bigger. The Rebellion has the right idea - basically partisan activity (called terrorism by TNO), as does the Confederation (shying away from conflict until you're big enough to take on TNO). If we are considered bullies, it is because IC we are more powerful.
OOC, I'm more than willing to lose if the opponent has a good, reasonable strategy and has the resources to pull it off. Like the attack on Echtabahn (which I'll post in soon, I promise). That has potential to do some damage to TNO. The only saving grace for us is that the Yuri/Li'eston thread takes one day, two at most, and our ships are freed up to return.
That said, what I said about TNO is true. We are a good faction with some really good strategists and tacticians, and we are accepting of newcomers so long as they don't create their own Atlantean Empire. Please, at least speak with me over IM before you make a choice.
