The Lyran Democratic Republic (LDR) began as the Dark Star County of the Enemy's Blood Duchy of the Lyran Empire. The ruling family was corrupt, and a revolution slaughtered the family and declared a democracy, but still loyal to Enemy's Blood. The Duke decided to remove the democrats and install his second son as the new count, which would strengthen his rule as he would be able to count on his son's support. The adjacent Foremost Duchy thought it better if the Dark Star County became independent as this would weaken their rivals at Enemy's Blood. Dark Star County eventually became fully independent, albeit only because Foremost protected it from Enemy's Blood. The LDR then made a deal with the Hydrans, gaining Gatling phaser technology in exchange for a promise to never rejoin the Lyran Empire. Their "smooth hull" ships reflect the cleaner lines of thought and lower maintenance support of the republic.
While the LDR never converted their one heavy cruiser into a Lion-class dreadnought, there were endless design studies and plans to make that happen. When the Lyrans build their first Forest Lion, the LDR announced plans to convert their only heavy cruiser into a similar ship, but armed with Gatling phasers. This ship is also available as a
kit that needs some assembly.
The ship is available in a variety of materials. Ships are unpainted, use standard flight stands available from many sources, and, while designed for gaming, make fine display pieces.