The Crucibles are a set of planets, moons, stations, and other celestial phenomena in SDR and TCP space. The Crucible Program works to provide a way to train military units in realistic environments that a service member could be tasked with.
But why such realism? Why not simulations? The Crucibles, work to improve skill of all, Serniani, Mandi, Human, Vanti, whoever wishes to improve their skill. And if simulation is all you get, simulation is all you expect. Real world conditions harden a soldiers senses, allows them to think on their feet. Those currently in The Crucible Program are: The Scientific Directorate of Rosecordia and the Colonus Pact.
What is a Sparring Operation? Sparring Operations refer to an operation conducted on a Crucible Program Planet. Usually, the territory that owns the Crucible area is defense, the visiting group is offense. Sparring Operations can be anything from Capture the Flag to Tactical Withdrawal. Sparring Operations usually use specific weapons that don’t inflict injury, but mimic the real weapon system.
(OOC, the following will be in character)