Credits

Dagudashaag Sector - Credits
----------------------------

Jae Campbell (SignalGK@aol.com): Editor, Signal GK Traveller Fanzine
Duncan Law-Green (dlg@ryouko.demon.co.uk): HIWG's Dag' Sector Analyst
Leighton Piper (LeightonDP@compuserve.com)
Nick Walker (CNW@globalnet.co.uk)
Idiot/Savant (idiot@sans.vuw.ac.nz): Put sector into galactic-format

Duncan writes:

   I began working on Dagudashaag in the early days of HIWG, and 
   published a number of articles in the HIWG database as Dagudashaag 
   Sector Developer. I joined up with Jae and Leighton Piper sometime 
   later (c. 1990), when I learned that they wanted to develop an entire 
   sector in their fanzine 'Signal GK' and thought that my articles 
   would be a reasonable start to work from. 

   The world data used in our development of Dagudashaag was nearly, but 
   not completely consistent with the official sector data we obtained 
   from GDW.... the UWPs of a few important worlds were changed. The 
   names of the worlds were created jointly by the members of the Signal 
   GK team.

1120 borders from the dot-maps in DGP's _Vilani and Vargr_.

Library Data

Library Data
------------

Agadua (Mush, Stipple): A flour created by grinding down the tuberous roots of
the Agadua plant which only grows in the tundra of Antioch. Agadua retains its
succulent flavour indefinitely and is considered a favourite dessert throughout
the Core regions of the Imperium.

Alikasch: The derivation of the word is uncertain - possibly the Solomani
Anglic alleycat, or the Trokh ayloi kh'esh (Those Who Fight With Metal
Dewclaws). Often portrayed as roving streetgangs, terrorising the downcit
inhabitants of Medurman cities, the Alikasch are far more than that. They are
Humans and Aslan who have learned, through centuries of bloodshed, to
understand each other, and to live together in peace. The resulting hybrid
culture shows many fascinating features from both "parent" cultures, but also
has truly unique aspects, little known or understood by the outsider.

Aospace: An Aslan sector-wide merchant line, owned by the Aohalai. It mainly
serves the Dagudashaag Main. The firm owns over 105 ships of 1,000 tonnes or
under, all of which are armed. It supplies the Aslan communities as well as
many of the feeder routes.

Aquans: Scanians that have been fully adapted for amphibious living in
oxygen-bearing oceans. They are descended from an early geneering experiment
carried out before -1,793 and are considered by many almost a separate race.
The Aquan is able to breath on the surface as well as under water but the
adaptions resulted in a loss of speech. To compensate the Aquan's have evolved
a complex sign language.

Arkayne LIC.: Originally founded as a joint venture between the Vilani
industrialist Kugmika Arkuukhumlar, and the gifted gravitics researcher Dr.
William Kayne in 412, Arkayne has since grown to become one of the largest
gravitic technology suppliers in the Imperial Core. Arkayne is a major supplier
of reactionless thrusters and inertial compensator systems to the Imperial
Navy. Gravitic vehicle manufacture forms only a small part of Arkayne's
turnover. The company's designs are advanced, though generally uncompetitively
priced as compared with rival vehicles from GTL (Argi) and IGI. Arkayne's
president Daan Corey, has however expressed an interest in expanding this
division of the company. A tradewar seems imminent.
   Stock Ownership: Arkuukhumlar family 17%, Kayne-Weston Investments LIC 25%,
Zirunkariish 18%, Skuissa'mr-S'mak SIA 9%, Simalr family 2%, Viisarikaa family
4%, other Imperial nobility 7%, private ownership 28%

Athar: Six-limbed passifistic carnivores Native to A'a'suni. They are adapted
to the severe planetary temperatures and as a result are seldom found
off-planet. They are variously described as being conservative, aloof, and
proud: they are, but there are deeper reasons for their behaviour. Perhaps the
biggest single drive within the Athar is the urge to feed. Feeding is the main
focus of the day, and a meal is preceded by a series of rituals culminating in
the capture and killing of live prey. There are good reasons why the Athar
place such value on feeding. A long term failure to feed causes an athar to
enter a short period of dormancy, followed by what can only be described as a
reversion to pure animal. Humans find Athar feeding habits at best unsavoury
and at worst sickening.


Bawapakerwa-A-A-Awapawab (Also known as Newts, Bwaps, Waps, Towel-heads): A
minor race that originated on Marhaban/Lentuli in the Empty Quarter. From the
human point of view, the Newts are obsessed with minutae, patterns and the
order of things. Driven by this internal desire to see everything in its proper
place, Newts make excellant bureaucrats, officials and the like. Newts prefer
damp or wet environments. [Further details on the Newts may be found in
Journal of the Travellers Aid Society No. 11 or Best of the Journal No. 3]

Brethren, Church of the: Church descended from Solomani Roman Catholicism. The
Church was formed in 2013 after the Pope declared that only humans had souls.
Several Jesuit priests disagreed so violently with the decision they agreed to 
excommunication and proceeded to set up their own Church. The Brethren services
are still full of ritual but great emphasis is placed on living the religion,
especially the giving of charity to those in need. The Church teaches that all
life is precious to God but that sentient life is the child of God.

Burgo Hellan Ice Championship Trophy: At the triennial Hellan Ice
Championships, the Burgo Trophy is the premier prize offered for the best all
round performer in: downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, ski-jumping and
slalom. Along with the trophy and the title as Hellan Ice Champion goes a prize
of Cr.125,000. The current holder of the Burgo Trophy (as of 1115) is Kywa Tu
of Jekyl. Kywa Tu has recently  come under close scrutiny by the Championship
Administrative Committee following allegations of drug use.

Cocchinus Deep Probe Project: Ongoing scientific research project into the
internal composition of the brown dwarf in the Ushra system, led by UUIAT. The
project uses the latest TL16 gravitic and neutrino probes, and is providing
fascinating insights into this strange object. In 1098, the UUIAT launched
Sundiver II, the first manned vessel to enter the outer envelope of a brown
dwarf.


Communet: A sector-wide integrated tri-vee, communications and library service 
available on all planets with starport status above C and with a tech level
above 10. The system uses rented decoders to prevent unauthorised access. A
minimal charge payable at the planet's starport is required in order to access
each planet's uplink.


Concordance of Purity and Reason (CPR, Coppers, Morality Police): Minor
political party on Ushra. The CPR are militant atheists whose objective is to
eliminate all organised religion on Ushra. Their belief is that a consistent
system of morals and ethics can be derived from scientific principles -
anything else is "foolish superstition". The CPR have also set themselves up as
arbiters of public morals, and seem to want to take Ushra's ectogenetic
reproduction system to its logical conclusion, by legislating against sexual
relationships of any kind.
   The CPR has a strong Solomani element, which advocates "screening out" all
alien (i.e. non-Solomani) genes in Ushra's next generation.
   Best known outside Ushra for the private prosecution brought by the
Concordance's leader Dr. Jarret Meade against the hyperrock group LightSpeed,
on the grounds that their album Touch The Gold was "grossly obscene". The
unsuccessful action made wonderful publicity for the group, and the album
remains one of the sector's best-sellers. It is rumoured that MakilaMedia,
LightSpeed's agents, have sent Dr. Meade a sizeable cheque for "services
rendered".

ContraTerrene Development Association: Organisation of Ushran scientists
promoting the development of antimatter power for peaceful uses only. They have
made several vocal indictments of Imperial Naval funding of weaponry research
at the University of Ushra Institute of Advanced Technology (UUIAT).

DeepLevel Harvesting LIC.: Formed in 862 to break Symmonds XenoCulture Inc's
monopoly on the Symmonds Tree harvesting, this company has recently pioneered
many new and exciting discoveries in the pharmaceuticals industry based on
Symmonds Tree extract and is currently running a major campaign to become the
major supplier of Symal on Medurma.

Drexen Corporation LIC (Drexler Enterprises): A major Ushran corporation
specialising in pharmaceuticals and nanotechnology. Believed to date from Rule
of Man times, but no records of the company exist prior to an Ushran Empire
Grand Fleet contract in -322. Through initial research work done by Dr. Karl
Gantz, Drexen has developed several truly radical methods of exploiting the
mineral wealth of Ushra using "molecular machines". Currently working on
constructional nanotech and gantzic devices.
   Stock Ownership: Caspian Holdings LIC 35%, Skuissa'mr-S'mak SIA 13%,
Zirunkariish 10%, BioLogica SA 9%, Gantz family 5%, Viisarikaa family 3%,
private ownership 9%, other holding companies 16%.

Fillaslopu: This a  plant that has  single handedly sponsored  the colonisation
and growth  of the  world of  Hellas. The  plant is  remarkable in  that in
thrives at the low temperatures on Hellas were its is harvested for its
nutritious seeds.  Tens of millions  of plants are  grown on the  world
producing millions  of tons of  seeds exported to  the food markets  of Ushra
each year. The seeds are  processed to yield high quality protein
meat-substitute as  well as a  nutrient supplement. The  seeds are also eaten
whole as part of salads, stews, soups and sauces.

Gantz, Dr. Karl Immanuel: Brilliant nanotechnology researcher and emeritus
professor of Developmental Nanochemistry at the University of Ushra
(1037-1109). His theories led to the development of a new generation of truly
practicable molecular machines. Their applications include extracting valuable
elements from their ores, "growing" complex devices from their raw materials,
and performing multiple programmed corrections to DNA molecules.
   Karl Gantz died of a previously undetected pulmonary embolism in 1109. His
stockholding in Drexen LIC passed to his son, Dr. Julian Gantz. There have been
suggestions that Karl Gantz was in dispute with the company at the time of his
death, but no evidence of foul play has been found.
   REF'S INFO: Dr. Gantz was killed by a nanotech weapon administered by a
Drexen hitman, after he had discovered that the company was using his
techniques to produce a horrifying range of "plague" nanoforms, in
contravention of Imperial Law. His son, Julian Gantz, had already been "bought"
by the company, but he had had the foresight to store some of the evidence for
his graddaughter, Mana, ordering her computer to reveal it on her sixteenth
birthday.
   As soon as she received the information, Mana realised her life was in
danger. She fled to the only community on Ushra where she would be safe - the
Alikasch. She now leads the life of an Alikasch NetDancer, striving to gather
sufficient evidence to bring down the company which killed her grandfather.

174-1115 USHRA/USHRA (INDISS/MST): Mana Gantz, daughter of Dr. Julian Gantz, a
director of Drexen LIC, reported missing today. Reward of Cr.75,000 posted for
information leading to her return.

gantzic (adj.): Self-repairing, using nanotechnological means.

Geehrtahe: Two-metre long, gliding snake-like hunter-gatherers. They live in
the tropical and sub-tropical regions of Pr'Geehr, high up in the canopy of the
fifty-metre tall tree-like native flora. They went undiscovered for 2,000
years, their sentience remained unrealised until the investigation of the world
for the First Survey. Since that discovery the IISS have maintained a base
within the system to monitor the Geehrtahe and prevent outside interference in
the development of the Geehrtahe culture. First contact with the Geehrtahe by
humans was disastrous for them. The first scouts to contact brought about their
near extinction. Despite a totally alien biology a harmless human gut bacterium
was devastatingly pathogenic for the Geehrtahe, resulting in a 99% mortality
rate. The IISS immediately quarantined the world and administered what aid they
could. Only now are numbers of Geehrtahe beginning to increase. Interestingly
the Geehrtahe resemble the descriptions given for the 'Tansui', the mythical
winged creature found in the literature of native fauna on Gateway (Argi 1331
B98A654-D). This has aroused speculation that the Geehrtahe once inhabited
Gateway, transplanted there by agents unknown. This theory has been dismissed
by most respectable sophontologists.

GenMett LIC (Metallurgias Generales SA): An ancient Terran mining company which
moved to Dagudashaag with the first Solomani settlers. GenMett specialises in
automated mining facilities throughout the Sector, primarily dealing in
exploiting the richer metals. They have an uneasy working relationship with the
other main mining company in Pact, ICE.

Ghost Fleet: Name given to the recorded phenomenon of historical transponder
readings being received by current day shipping. The transponder signals have
been collaborated as genuine and, to date, no logical explanation has been
forthcoming as to their origin. In each case the signals have been from ships
lost during the Pact Empire.
   REF'S INFO: The transponder readings were actually from the Perseus which
used the signals to cover any accidental discovery during trials. The
transponder is capable of relaying any signal required. The ship, however, was
only ever tested between Medurma and Dipa and only used the signal twice. The
Nexus signals were actually forged by INDISS to create a much needed story.
With the on-set of the Rebellion, the Pact transponder signals are still being
used to put fear into the enemy.

Gravatics Technology LTD. (GTL): GTL is a sector-wide firm based on Argi which
specialises in the Grav transportation field. They are the largest firm in the
sector devoted to vehicle building and are pushing the limits of TL 15 to early
TL 16 in some applications. They manage to keep ahead of the intense
competition only through constant research and development. [SEE CAR WARS FOR
DETAILS]

Han, House of: A sector-wide brokerage firm, based at Ekhugush, mainly
employing Ekhui graduates with at least Broker 3. Subsidiary offices can be
found on all A and B ports throughout the sector with affiliated firms on most
C class starports.

Huan Han-Ch'ing, Duke of Argi: Descended from the Han Ch'i Tai'Pan dynasty,
Huan is renowned as a businessman and peace-maker. His family own 63% of Argian
industry and are a major owner of agricultural land on Khulim, Sii and Shidka.

Ichiban ComStellar LIC.: A high-tech corporation specialising in tight-beam
meson communicators. The head office is based on Shudash/Ilelish 2819 but
maintains the Chiang K'ui Communications Waystation Facility at Lenashuuk/Argi.
This waystation is a major communications link in the Dagudashaag-Zarushagar 
Xboat network. 

Idex (Also known as Mark, Leash, Face): A universally recognised form of
identification within the Dagudashaag Sector consisting of a smart card issued
to each citizen of a co-operating planet at maturity. The card is an integrated
record of personal, medical and credit history which contains verified retina, 
genetic and fingerprint records stored in a unbreakable code. Idex can be
issued at all C+ Starports. All pertinent data is recorded within the
microcircuitry of the card and includes birth registration details, (legal)
medical history, (Legal) career history, educational history and record of
Imperially recognised crimes (if any). If an Idex is tampered with it
automatically blanks out. Although there is no legal power requiring a citizen
to carry an Idex it should be noted that many high law level planets refuse
clearance to land unless the visitor is registered. Banks may refuse to allow
you to open accounts or extend you credit, and permits, licenses and medical
services may be denied.

Ikensaag Gravity Industries (IGI): A sector-wide combine based on Sh'si/Argi
1635, whose main field of expertise is Gravitics and their industrial
applications. They are the second largest producer of Grav vehicles in the
sector after GTL. [SEE CAR WARS FOR DETAILS]

Inchok: Semi-intelligent species native to Nafud - the Inchok live in complex,
communal burrows under the sandy surface of Nafud. They extract oxygen and
water directly from the sand. The sand is taken into a special gut and
chemically broken down to release the O2 and the water which are reabsorbed
into the bloodstream. Water is then reabsorbed by kidney-like structures. These
organs are so efficient that virtually no water is lost during normal
metabolism.
  The Inchok are deaf - they sense each other (and more importantly their
prey) through vibrations set up by movements in the sand. Basic communications
between the Inchok is achieved through 'drumming' signals onto compact sand
using a spade-like tail; vibrations are picked up by special sensitive pads
found on the underside of the limbs.

Indium Corporation of Europe (ICE): A Terran mining company that moved to Pact
with the original Solomani settlers, they established extensive mining
facilities throughout Pact and Ushra. They primarily work through strip-mining
techniques and are known for their exploitive manipulation of local markets and
their heavy handed treatment of employees.

INDISS (INformation DISsemination Services): INDISS is a news-gathering agency
serving most of the territory of Dagudashaag Sector. Headquartered on
Medurma/Pact, INDISS maintains branch offices in almost all type-A starport
facilities in the sector. INDISS has recently diversified its operations quite
widely and now trades in such fields as holographic reference material (such as
Travel Guides) and information-handling software.

Interstellar Petrochemical Processing LIC. (IPP): IPP specialises in the
extraction of valuable organic chemicals from exotic or corrosive atmospheres.
They are the second largest landowner in the Remnants Subsector.

Jala'Lak  (Also known as Woolies):
Jala'Lak are slow moving giant simian's native to Uaam/Argi 0904. The South
Western jungles support this indigenous race, which are the subject of some
controversy. The Jala'Lak are peaceful and live in harmony with the jungle. A
race of large, bipedal simian's with prehensile tails, they live mainly on
insects, roots and vegetation but are not adverse to freshly killed carrion.
The forests they live in are filled with what appear to be temples, apparently
to their various gods. The University of Ushra maintains a base there in order
to better study this fascinating Neolithic race. The Jala'Lak are also found on
Giirakh/Zeda 0325 (B86768-C) but for an as yet unexplicable reason, their
temper is vastly different - much more savage, even cannibalistic. Clearly they
are not native to Giirakh and consequently are the subject of much debate. 

Julianne Viisarikaa, INSS/FMSS (BCL-9984): First vessel in the new Duke class
of light battlecruisers under construction at EdenHome Naval Shipyards.
Formerly the Cleon Zhunastu, now named after Sector Duchess Julianne
Viisarikaa, a major military figure of the First Civil War, who was
instrumental in installing Emperor Cleon V on the Iridium Throne. Technical
Level:16. Displacement: 100,000 tonnes. Primary Weaponry: Class U Meson
Accelerator. Jump-4. 6-G. Believed to be equipped with the latest Arkayne
100-ton gravitic effector bays, which are able to function as both tractors and
repulsors. Laid down: 237-1115. Projected Launch date: 295-1118

Laggaa (Abdor For'exx var.): A small rodent-like creature with cat-like
head,and sleek multicoloured fur native to For'star. They weigh 3-4
kilogrammes, and are about 80 centimetres long. They have a thin membrane
between their legs which allows them to glide on air currents for short
distances and a short, but extremely effective, prehensile tail. They are
omnivorous, extremely intelligent and very loyal. They are capable of spitting
an acid-based venom up to a distance of 20 metres with great accuracy. They
have been partially domesticated and are gradually becoming popular pets though
few will risk owning one with an intact poison sac.

MacKhan Entertainments Consortium: A company specialising in "Adult"
entertainment. MEC runs gambling, pornography and prostitution centre's on all
planets willing to tolerate their presence. They have a major interest in
Communet and in addition own Tri-Vee and SimStim studio's throughout the
Sector. 

Medurma Main StarLines (MMSL): A sector-wide subsidiary of Imperialines running
regular passenger and freight services to all A and B class starports on the
Dagudashaag Main.
   REF'S INFO: This company is actually a front for Lucan's spies. He allows it
free access to and from Medurma to enable him to smuggle his agents onto the
planet. Unfortunately for Lucan, the FMF know about it and are secretly tagging
all agents and feeding them false information.

Miyavine: Minor human race transported to Medurma by the ancients at about
-350,000. They were apparently unadapted and built extensive settlements at
MidLevel and HighLevel. They achieved a TL 4 or 5 but for some unknown reason
died out about -18,700. The Miyavine are one of only two classified MHR's in
the sector, the other being the Ziadd. 

Nanotech, constructional: The use of molecular machines to construct devices
from their raw materials. At lower tech levels, this requires a specially-
prepared vat with a carefully-controlled environment. At higher tech levels,
the "nanos" are simply poured in liquid form onto a source of suitable elements
(metal and carbon scrap, or even a broken or obsolete device). Tech Level 12+.

Nehutei: Scanian traders established in 660 primarily to retain free lines of 
communication between Akiva and the many Scanian colonies spread throughout
Dagudashaag. These traders always wear long cloaks with hoods and are renowned
as efficient traders. Nuhutei can be found throughout the Sector where they use
their training in reading body language to obtain the best deals possible.

Nei'Tan Corporation, LIC: A biomedical co-operative run by the Snow Leopard
tribe of Alikasch (q.v.) on Medurma, Nei'Tan specialises in research into new
pharmaceuticals from native raw materials such as symal residues. Nei'Tan is
expanding rapidly into the void in the market left by the Transgenic Incident,
and is an excellent example of the new respectability and prosperity being
achieved by some Alikasch tribes. Rumours that Nei'Tan has developed a cheap
and effective anagathic serum from symal residues have been consistently
denied.

Pit Stops: Derivations unknown, Pit Stops are illegal establishments usually
located on moons of outer gas giants or infrequently patrolled asteroid belts.
It is here that pirate crews, skipped starship crews and other less than legal 
persons are supposed to go for R&R. These black spots are also supposed to be
thriving black markets. The last such establishment (in the Vipac system) was
closed down in 785.

Red Eagles (Reactionary People's Front for the Liberation of Solomani Ideals):
A violent, pro-solomani, terrorist organisation active mainly in the Bolivar,
Argi and Sapphyre subsectors of Dagudashaag. However, operations funded by the
Red Eagles have been traced across the entire sector. This terrorist group was
most active between 990 and 1009 but sporadic incidents have been attributed to
them right up to present day. The last major act that could be traced to the
Red Eagles, was the attack on the University of Ushra's surface base at
Shabamiir which resulted in the death of 100 personnel. The Red Eagles claimed
this attack was because Ushra had "sold out" the Solomani ideal. Red Eagles are
also believed to have claimed responsibility for the death of Duke Raegis
Viisarikaa in 1114. In 1115 a co-ordinated ambush was carried out on a
terrorist base on Sharaa which is believed to have wiped out the core of the
group. Nothing has been heard from them since and it is believed that the Red
Eagle Leader, Kylie Two-Shadows, was killed in the attack. There is still a Cr.
10,000 reward outstanding for information leading to the capture of any Red
Eagle members.

Rothery, Dr. Middleton: Bolivaran paleontologist and archaeologist (1065- ),
best known for his text _A Deeper History_ (1109), in which he reveals his
discoveries on Ambrym and Besayes in the Medurma/Pact system, which purport to
show that they were inhabited at around -355,000. Rothery attributes this
settlement to a previously unknown technologically-advanced group of S'mrii,
which he calls the Hierarchs. Carballoy and plasteel fragments found at the
sites indicate a level of technology at least equal to current Imperial maxima.
   Rothery states that he retrieved a complete mummified S'mrii specimen from
the site on Besayes, and holographs of the find are included in the book. The
specimen was, however, destroyed in a shuttle accident before it could be
subjected to further study on Medurma.
   Rothery has little standing with others in his field, who mainly regard him
as a crackpot. Since 1112, he has become increasingly irrational, and has made
only fleeting appearances since 1114, when he claimed that he was being pursued
by a S'mrii "hit team".
   REF'S INFO: Dr. Rothery did, in fact, find a mummified S'mrii corpse.
Unfortunately he instantly jumped to the wrong conclusions and failed to notice
the clues that pointed to the base actually being constructed by another race -
The Malaach, who had achieved TL 18 before their final distruction at the hands
of the Ancients. The S'mrii "hit team" are in fact a group of S'mrii scientists
who wish to question him further about his discoveries. 

Sanheichiir (Little Knives of the Mind): Scanian psionic commando's - trained
warriors who are reputed to have had immense psionic abilities. When, in 800,
the Imperium took action to prevent the spread of Zhodani teachings through its
pawns, the Scanians, Sanheichiir troops successfully held off the might of the
Imperial Navy. This lasted for a period of 22 years. Once the Imperium was in
control, action was taken to suppress the Sanheichiir and psionic teaching but
this proved to be only partially successful. The last recorded incident
involving the Sanheichiir was the assassination of the Imperial Governor Shaida
Gakushuu (known as the "Butcher") on 132-825 by internal telekenesis. The few
remaining Sanheichiir were disbanded as part of the Treaty of Rehin (305-826)
and are now merely a chapter in history. 
   REF'S INFO: The Sanheichiir have not died out. In addition to training on
Abbayi there are several selective breeding programs underway on non-Akivan 
soil and in this way a sizeable army has been created.

Scanian: Scanian's were genetically engineered from Solomani stock by an
unknown company between -1953 and -1793. They are perfectly adapted for water
worlds and/or high gravity planets. Their eyes are protected by a polarised
membrane which given Scanian's the appearance of an overall white eye
apparently devoid of iris or pupil. Membranes in the ears and nose prevent
drowning or pressure problems. Bones have been altered and muscle structure
increased to cope with high gravity. The Scanian adaptation is also the
ancestor of the Aquan which developed from Scanian stock. Today the term
Scanian also refers to those who follow the teachings of the Prophet Benjamin
Ra'Scania regardless of race. The teachings of Scania are supposed to teach its
followers never to lie or cheat and to give them the ability to read the truth
in others.

Sesh-Ifaen Freight Tractors Ag (SIFTA): Bulk cargo shippers serving the
subsectors bordering Gushemege and Dagudashaaag. The company have their origins
and main base at Masa (Gushumege 2513) with a regional base for Dagudashaag at
Ushra.
   The company came into existence in 936 as a small brokerage firm but
expanded into carriage after being let down with the delivery of freight. The
company operate a number of different ship designs (the most numerous is a
version of the Tukera 3,000-ton freighter) and in total run a total of
thirty-two jump-capable vessels.
   The company operates ships out of all class A and B starports along the
Gushumege-Dagudashaag border, as well as all major worlds with class C
starports, agricultural, rich or industrial status.
   One of SIFTA's smaller vessels, the "Carolisese" went missing while
approaching the starport at Lamda Cygni. No trace of the subsidizerd merchant
(a jump-2 version) has yet been found. Most attribute the loss to the 'Ghost
Ship', the Lundqvist. SIFTA are offering a reward for information leading to
the recovery of the vessel or information on its loss.

The Simalr Family: The title of Duke of Ushra is held by members of the Simalr
family. This family has had a long and distinguished history - The Simalr claim
ancestry from the Amsadege family, who settled in the region at about -5,900,
and gave the sector at least two Vilani provincial governors. The Simalr
themselves formed the majority of the rulers of the Ushran Empire during the
Long Night.
   Although the Simalr claim noble Vilani descent, they are of mixed lineage, 
and are unashamedly sophontist. Ushra itself still bears many signs of the 
original colonisation by the Solomani.  They are skilled administrators, who
show genuine concern for their subjects. One of the Simalrs' most noted
policies is that of persuading surrounding systems to adopt a liberal,
democratic style of government. This gradual, voluntary process has so far
resulted in ten democratic systems.
   These enlightened policies, together with distinguished Naval service, have 
earned the current incumbent, Duke Edward Amekaa Simalr (41), a prestigious
seat on the Imperial Moot. He is noted throughout much of the Imperium for his
campaigns for sophont rights.
   Another notable member of the Simalr clan is Jianik-Anne Simalr (32),
Edward's sister, and chief Dagudashaag representative to the Grand Council of
the Vland Domain.

Simalr, Duke Edward Amekaa: Duke of Ushra (1075- ). Current constitutional
monarch of the Republic of Ushra.
   Duke Edward is an ex-naval commander, awarded a Starburst of Extreme Heroism
after an incident in Corridor Sector in 1098, in which Vargr corsairs seized
a liner on which he and a number of high-ranking naval officers were
travelling. Simalr regained control of the ship's computer, and managed to
bluff the Vargr into surrendering, despite the injuries he had suffered at
the corsairs' hands.
   Edward Simalr took over the duchy when his father stood down in 1101 because
of ill health. He has become a prominent member of the Imperial Moot,
campaigning on a wide range of sophontarian issues, and holds many proxy votes
from other Dagudashaag nobles (including Karyn Viisarikaa). He married Baroness
Myselle deForrester of Shibishlim in 1110; they have two children.
   REF'S INFO: Duke Edward rose to Imperium-wide fame in 1116, when, as
spokesman for the Moot, he denounced Lucan's ascension to the Imperial Throne
as illegal. He was placed under immediate house arrest on Capital. With the
help of his staff, he managed to escape, and fled to spinward. He arrived at
Medurma on 342-1116, and briefed Karyn on the situation, then continued on to
Ushra to prepare for the coming storm.
   He made numerous public appearances on Ushra in early 1117, but departed the
system at about 190, handing consititutional responsibility to his cousin,
Kiyrel Vashkin-Simalr. His current whereabouts are unknown. It is rumoured
that he is covertly roaming the Imperium, organising support against the
"Usurper" Dulinor, and the "Pretender" Lucan.

Stormsingers of Medurma (Procellacantor var.): A semi-mythical winged creature
with a fifteen-metre span, the Stormsinger is said to ride the powerful
updrafts which cause the violent electrical storms which periodically lash
Medurma's populated areas. A strangely elusive creature, the Stormsinger has
only been sighted on a few occasions in modern times, and only a few indistinct
holorecordings exist. Many teams have attempted to track or capture the
Stormsinger, but those who have heard its bewitching calls have suffered
mysterious equipment failures, and there is still no satisfactory hard
evidence. Links have been drawn with the legend of the Tansui on GateWay/Argi.

Symmonds Tree: An unusual plant growing in the Medurma DeepLevel which is used
as a food source as well as providing several unique pharmaceuticals.

Symmonds Xenoculture Inc. (SXC): Founded by Frederick Maximillion Symmonds in
316, to harvest the Symmonds Tree they have since expanded to form a major
agroproduct harvesting and shipping company in Pact. In recent years the
company has been plagued by rumours of financial mismanagement. Its position as
leader of the domestic Medurman market no longer looks secure as newer
companies such as DeepLevel Harvesting LIC, are proving to be more productive
and innovative.

Thalassa-Gushumiik Organic Produce, LIC.: Company, based on Thalassa, which
specialises in pisciculture on several water worlds in the sector. The company
unfortunately has an extremely poor safety record.

Twin Lines Shipping, LIC.: A Scanian shipping line formed in the 850's using
unadapted Scanian followers. The line was extremely successful in winning
trading contracts throughout the Rimward edge of the Sector and currently
maintains a fleet of thirty free traders. The origins of the Company were not
known until 1021. In 896 they successfully negotiated the Akiva supply run
during the Scanian interdiction, thereby maintaining contact with its colonies
throughout the quarantine period. Today Twin Lines uses mixed crews of Scanian
Nehutei, unadapted Scanian's and Imperials. 
   REF'S INFO: The reason that the Imperial Navy never caught on to the fleet's
coming and goings is the fact that each of the ten original ship's were
equipped with a black globe. Currently only three of the ship's have fully
functional devices with another two working occassionally.

Ushra Materials Technology (UMT): An Ushran based company which specialises in
"creative technology". That is, the use of both commonplace and exotic
materials to manufacture unusual robotic equipment. UMT has gained a reputation
for creating extremely versatile and innovative mining equipment amongst other
things.

Weinhandlung Klosterhof Schuman GMBH (WKS): The largest wine distillers and
transportation company in the sector. They are best known for their generic
house wines rather than the many rare and delicate vintages they also produce
which are mainly exported to Core.

Xenorasty (n.) (Terran Greek, xeno- alien, foreign; erastes lover): Intercourse
between sentients of differing races or species. The Ushran Kanumaar-Bruning
legislation of 1022 which legalised the act between consenting adults in
private, is a major target of the CPR and other conservative organisations.

Yarhei Kel'a (The Time of Testing): The Yarhei Kel'a is a period of 30 days
each and every year in which Scanian followers take time off from their
employment to attend a local Centre of Knowledge, so that they may assist the
Scholars (Rab'ani) by evaluating and cross-examinating their thoughts and 
theories. This concept of cross-examination is known as Ve'lma Iphka or
"perhaps the opposite holds true."

Zeenie (n., vulg.) (Solomani Anglic, fr. xenorasty): One who engages in
xenorasty; contemptible person.

Legends of Dagudashaag

LEGENDS AND LORE OF DAGUDASHAAG SECTOR

The following extracts were taken from the Mem-clip, "Legends and
lore of Dagudashaag Sector", by Ishmaga Ershuk, published by
Sherver Press, Ushra (1115). Used with permission, all rights
reserved.

1. The Talking Temples of Uaam

Uaam is home to an extremely primitive race of large simians, the
Jala'Lak. They are a shy, unassuming race. Yet, for all that,
they are a race surrounded in mystery. There are no signs that
the race was ever further advanced or, for that matter, were
visited by a more advanced species prior to the Vilani. yet the
race can be found in two separate systems in Dagudashaag;
Giirakh/Zeda and their home planet, Uaam/Argi. The Giirakh tribes
are believed to have been transported less than 4,000 years ago.
Who transported them? No-one knows.

Both branches of the Jala'Lak practice primitive religious rites
which centre around "temples" found on both worlds. Each temple
is identical; two 0.5 tonne pillars cut from the Atlas mountains
2,500 km distant are set into the ground at a slant exactly 5.32m
apart. A single 1 tonne pillar is set upright in the middle. Each
of stone pillars have been dressed and three perfectly
symmetrical circles each intersecting have been carved into the
inner face of the two outer stones. On Giirakh the temples are
identical even down to the distance between the stones - 5.32m.
Here local stone from a mountain range 560km away were used. How
did this race transport the stones such a distance? How did they
measure the distance between them so accurately and why? How did
they cut the incisions? These are still mysteries. 

There language identifies the temples with a mysterious entity
best translated as the "God-Creature". Who or what is the God-
Creature? He is not the normal God for such a primitive race; he
remained aloof from their affairs and was only interested in the
creation and maintenance of the stone temples. 

There is a further mystery, one not often spoken of by the sober
citizens of Uaam; Several good, upright citizens claim to have
heard the temples talk. Between -407 and 600 there are 23
separate reports by local's that while touching the stone
incisions that they heard a voice speak to them in the Jala'Lak
tongue. The voices sounded like a quiet whisper that filled the
hearer's full of urgency but to do what they didn't know. To
further confound matters no Jala'Lak was generally within 20km of
the sites at the time. Since the 600's the temples have remained
as silent as the Giirakh temples. What is the answer? Are the
Jala'Lak psionic? All tests seem to rule out that possibility but
if that's the case who spoke. Unfortunately no recording was ever
made and the Jala'Lak language was only successfully translated
in 843. Whatever the message, it is now apparently lost in the
mists of time..

2. The Road Builders of Cocor

The Cocor system, lying on the rimward fringe of the Pact
subsector, should have little to offer the enquiring mind. Not
so! Cocor is the scene of one of the most enduring mysteries in
the whole of Dagudashaag. Cocor - where the Roads are found.

Cocor is not the sort of place one would expect to find a mystery
such as the Roads. The planet is the second world out from a cool
M type star. It has an atmosphere largely composed of carbon
dioxide, methane and sulphur compounds. It has many small lakes
and seas of liquid methane. The atmospheric pressure is in excess
of 150 atmospheres and the temperatures average -80oC.

The roads, wide highways of carefully dressed stone, cross the
barren plains in absolutely straight lines, seemingly leading
from nowhere to nowhere. They cross vast mountains or disappear
into lakes only to emerge on the far shore, exactly on course.
Occasionally the Roads cross one another or, more rarely, merge
to form a single great highway. Most are in near perfect
condition, only rarely are they broken, probably as a result of
seismic activity. 

Each road is magnificently built, consisting of carefully footed
foundations topped by layers of tightly packed rubble and capped
by carefully cut, interlocking pieces of masonry. Each road has
drainage ditches either side, which still carry away the methane
sleet that falls in winter. It has been estimated that there are
in excess of 10,000 kilometres of Roads, all built to the same
exacting standards, and all in the same remarkable state of
preservation.

What do we know of the builders? The answer is nothing! Cocor has
no native lifeforms and, due to the corrosive nature of the
atmosphere, any organic, metallic or plastic that the builder's
may have left will have totally rotted away. The earliest known
records of the Roads (dating from the middle period of the Rule
of Man) indicate that the first Vilani explorers, millenia
before, had discovered the Roads much as we find them today. We
have no clues, not even any hints, as to who expended many years
of effort to construct such a lasting and seemingly pointless
monument.

3. Admiral Jenkins' Squadron

Many of my readers will have heard of Stone Jenkins'. The story
is told to recalcitrant children by exasperated mothers of his
hiding in the folds of jumpspace hoarding his gold, waiting to
catch the disobedient and burn them alive. The threat that ol'
Stone would "come and get you" is familiar to most, but how did
such a tale originate? Is Stone a fictional character invented by
parents to quieten their offspring? No, the story is real,
although greatly warped by time. 

Everett Justinian Jenkins was born in 443 and having completed a
formal education joined the Imperial Navy in 460. He quickly rose
through the ranks and attained the Flag in 472. During his career
he gained a reputation as a hard master. Legend claimed he was a
sensitive as a stone and just as subtle. Crews disliked serving
within Jenkins' squadron and rumour states that at least two
midshipmen committed suicide rather than serve on his ship.
Despite this, Jenkins' was an achiever and never failed to
accomplish the objectives of his mission; until Dashi.

In itself it was unusual for an admiral to have command of a
squadron but Jenkins' saw himself as a man of action. In his
mind's eye he was the hero of his men, leading from the fore and
always in the thick of battle. At least that's how the news
services of his day saw him, his men knew a different story. In
reality Jenkins' was rarely, if ever, in a position where he was
in any personal danger. He frequently used a sledge hammer to
crack a nut so as to avoid any personal danger to himself.

In 485 Emperor Cleon IV deposed the reigning Sector Duke, Tarak
Viisarikaa, and elected Himuu Asaria in his place. He granted him
a free hand to track down and "dispose" of Duke Tarak. During the
widespread unrest of Duke Asaria's short but bloody and
tyrannical reign, Admiral Jenkins' was given an open mandate to
find and destroy the Viisarikaa before a civil war broke out. The
Admiral saw force as the only means of putting down civil unrest.
Applied heavily. In 44-485 there was a near mutiny when he
ordered vessels under his command to fire on orbital facilities
above Nexus that had refused his ships permission to dock. On
312-485, acting on information received that Viisarikaa was
hiding out in the Warrens beneath Sennii City (Dashi), he ordered
a nuclear attack on the city. Thirty-two million innocent
citizens were killed in the naval bombardment. The Duke surfaced
a year later, he had never sheltered in Sennii. A naval inquest
later cleared Jenkins' but questions were eventually raised at
the Moot regarding claims that the Admiral had somehow influenced
their decision. A courier was sent to request the Admiral's
appearance at a special hearing. Before the courier arrived the
Admiral vanished. 

It was late in 486. Jenkins' squadron was assigned the task of
transporting a naval payroll from the Dagudashaag naval depot to
the naval base at Ekhugush. By an odd twist of fate the last
place the squadron was seen was in the Dashi system. The squadron
jumped out, bound for the Kakhirusir system on 323-486. It never
arrived. A complete cruiser squadron and a naval payroll worth in
excess of Mcr. 12,000,000 simply vanished. To this day no trace
of the Admiral, the ships or the money have ever been found. 

4. The Bradley Barrier

The Bradley system is primarily a naval facility. Its main claim
to fame are the events of 993 which gave rise to the legend of
the "Bradley Barrier". Late that year, the system's primary star
SK-433677m, began producing an usual, extremely regular sequence
of flares. This lasted for two weeks and had no effect on
stations in-system as they were adequately shielded. It did,
however, affect traffic arriving.

Of the four vessels which Jumped insystem during that time, one
emerged into normal space with extensive thermal damage, its crew
critically ill from Jump sickness. Two others r-emerged as
thousand-tonne slugs of molten metal. The only undamaged vessel
was a Naval transport.

The Navy attempted to cover up the incident but media agencies
rapidly picked up on the story. Speculation was rife. Some
reported that the injured crew claimed to have been attacked by
"monsters in Jumpspace". The most popular theory was that the
Navy had been testing an Ancient hyperspatial weapon, powered by
the system's primary star. The Navy kept a wary silence but
eventually released a statement pointing out that all the
affected ship's had been manufactured by GSbAG, which had
reportedly been suffering reliability problems with Jump Drive
integration at that time.

In 1114, Dr. Raymond Horne, an astrophysicist at the University
of Medurma-Korovall, reported that computer models showed that
Bradley's primary would enter another period of instability "in
the near future". Several commercial carriers suffered "mutinies"
as ship crews refused to honour freight contracts for Bradley. As
of yet, the strange flare sequence has not recurred.

5. The Medurma Triangle

Until 1110 the triangle of space created by Medurma, Dipa and
Nexus was not even legend. Then on 12-1114 The Merchant vessel
"Dawn Trader" filed a report with the Medurman University. While
preparing to Jump out of the Dipa system the navigator spotted a
bright reflection in space. Instantly he leapt to the controls as
he knew that such a reflection could only come from a ship yet
all his sensors showed clear space. Thinking his equipment had
malfunctioned he radioed to the ship his position. There was no
reply. He admits his next thought was that it had to be a pirate
but seconds later he received a tranponder transmission then the
ship vanished. 

On analysis the transponder reading proved to have originated on
a Medurman Pact ship which vanished in -35. The whole exchange
was recorded. His sensors were in full working order. There was
no ship yet the recorder clearly received the phantom
transmission. 

Over the next two years three other incidents occurred. In each
case a crew member (and in one well documented case the entire
crew and passengers) swears they saw what had to be a starship
yet nothing showed on any sensor and then moments later a phantom
transponder transmission is recorded. Each time a different ship
is received. Each is of a Pact naval vessel lost between -120 and
-5. Each was recorded destroyed while in either the Medurma, Dipa
or Nexus systems. 

It begs the question, why not recorded sightings prior to 1110?
My personal theory is that somehow a doorway has recently opened
that allows echoes from an earlier opening to drift through to
our time. The Triangle is another unsolved mystery.


FURTHER READING

1. Jala'Lak and the God-Creature - James Henna, 1086
   Sphontology in the Vlandian Cultural Regions - Surthi Mataria, 1003

2. Adiga Gurirle - Iikhush Haupt Kamabuk, 1006
   Ancients and Cocor - Feslor Kurkiir, 873
   Ushla Cocor Khuunzesh - Iimep Lap. 973

3. General History of Dagudashaag - Ushra University Press, 1106
   History of the Pact Subsector - Jalivent Esunimi, 1092
   Jenkins' Command - Williem Bal, 775

4. Bradley Barrier - Rede Printemps, 1037

5. History of the Pact - Juliya Banerjan, 878
   Transponder transcripts - University of Medurma-Korovall


Credits:
   Original concept, Roads of Cocor, Jenkins' Squadron by Adrian Stewart.
   Bradley Barrier by Duncan Law-Green
   The Talking Temples, Medurma Triangle by Jae Campbell

Null-G Kabbadi

NULL-G KABBADI 

The game is played in zero-g environment within a marked "pitch"
measuring 12.5m long by 10m wide by 10m high. The area is divided
into two halves by a sensor barrier running across the middle.
Each court is further divided in half by Baulk-lines; sensor
screens running parallel to the central barrier. During the
course of a raid an attacker must pass through the opponent's
Baulk-line at least once. Two corridors run along the length of
the pitch on either side. These are known as the galleries and
are 1 metre wide. These only become an area of play after an
attacker has touched an opposing player or has been tackled.
Until then any player floating into one is considered out of
court, and must leave the field. His team also concedes a point
to the other team. A game lasts for two halves of thirty minutes
each. Each team has seven players of mixed sex. The teams start
at opposing ends of the field in their respective courts and take
turns to make raids. The aim is for one player to raid into
opposition territory by venturing through the baulk-line into
their court, touching as many opponents as possible and returning
safely to their own court. Throughout the raid the attacker must
chant the phrase "Kabbadi, Kabbadi" in a single continuous
breath. If he succeeds in touching and returning across the
central barrier safely, all those touched or who stepped out of
bounds are out and must leave the field. The defending team must
try to avoid being touched or prevent the attacker from getting
back through the barrier until they lose their chant. If caught,
the attacker is out. Each team alternates between defending and
attacking.

Scoring is as follows:

   * Everytime an attacker makes a productive raid, (ie, touches
     and returns) their team wins as many points as opposing players
     sent out.
   * If an attacker is unsuccessful, (ie, losses their chant,
     fails to pass through the opponents Baulk-line, steps out of
     court) they are out and the opposing team wins a point.
   * Every time an attacker is successfully tackled by the
     defending team (prevented from returning across the central
     barrier) the attacker is out and the team wins one point.
   * If an entire team is out, the opposing team wins a Lona (2
     bonus points) and then the other team brings all its players back
     into play and the match continues.
   * If a team carries out three unproductive raids (ie, if the
     attacker returns to their own court without touching an opponent)
     in a row, the opposing team wins one point.
   * If a player floats into the galleries before a touch has
     taken place then they are out and give away one point.
   * If the attacker, after being tackled, manages to break
     through the central barrier without losing their chant, all those
     who were still holding are out and the attacker's team wins a
     point for each one.

Unfair Tactics:

If a team plays dangerously or unfairly a point may be awarded to
the other team.

   * A player cannot try to stifle an attacker's chant by
     shutting their mouth or by trying to throttle them.
   * Players cannot restrain an attacker in a scissor grip with
     their legs.
   * Punching and slapping are prohibited.
   * Players cannot deliberately push an attacker out of court.
   * Tackles must be to the attackers body (ie, not the clothing,
     genitals or hair)
   * Teams cannot delay more than 5 seconds from the end of their
     opponents raid before sending in their own attacker.
   * Not chanting properly is considered unfair. A continuous
     chant is essential.

Kabbadi is considered an amateur game so, officially, players
cannot be paid. The Megacorporations get round this by employing
the best players as "Entertainment Consultants". The players are
not expected to work but instead spend all their time training,
playing in tournaments and winning matches. This competitiveness
helps raise the corporation's profile. Players doing badly could
be dealt with as being in default of their contract. 

Jala'Lak

Contact: Jala'Lak  [Nivsa-Therapsid Paramammalia Yetiforme]

Physiology:

HEIGHT & WEIGHT: The average male stands 2.2m high in a
semi-erect stance and weighs in at 80.2kg. The average female is
slightly shorter at 1.98m but weighs 85kg. The additional weight
is located in an extra fat layer on the chest.

APPEARANCE: Jala'Lak are the slow-moving giants of the forest.
They are believed to be descended from brachiator primates but
have adapted to their larger size by becoming bipeds. They
manipulate with arm-like appendages but can also grasp hold with
their small, thick prehensile tail. The mouth is encased within a
hard beak and the eyes are located at the front of the face. They
do have external ears but they are hidden under the head fur. The
entire body is covered in several layers of thick, curly fur
which varies in colour from white to a dark grey. The feet are
broad and circular with five toes while the hands consist of two
fingers and an opposing thumb and two striking claws. The sex
organs are retracted in both sexes. On first impressions the
Jala'Lak of Uaam (0940) may look extremely fierce but are
normally very passive.

DIET: Jala'Lak are gatherers and are classed as omnivorous. Their
normal diet consists of insects, larvae, vegetation and roots but
are not averse to fresh raw meat but will rarely hunt for it
preferring freshly killed carrion. They are particularly fond of
the Jhawa bud which makes up about 45% of their diet. The lack of
activity of the Jala'Lak is actually an adaption to high
concentrations of toxic compounds that are manufactured by the
Jhawa buds as a defense against herbivores. By coupling minimal
activity with a low metabolic rate & an extremely dense coat they
can substantially reduce their food requirements and consequently
their intake of toxic chemicals. Jala'Lak on Giirakh or raised in
captivity on a different diet are fast, agile creatures. Research
has found that the Jhawa bud extract can be refined into a
superior quality fast drug. Fortunately the Government, because
of the plant's importance to the Jala'Lak diet, its relitive
rarity and inability to grow under cultivation, has expressly
forbidden harvesting.

REST: Jala'Lak will rarely take long rests preferring several
short naps spread throughout the day. The males will always sleep
at different times so that one adult male is always awake. The
rest of the clan will usually enter a deep sleep during the
midnight and midday period and are most likely to be active in
the dawn and twilight periods when they do most of their
gathering.

REPRODUCTION: Jala'Lak still retain breeding seasons and females
not currently nursing a pup will enter a receptive stage lasting
22 local days every local year. At this time the female becomes
agitated and extremely active. The anal fur changes to a dark
blue colour as a indication of the females current readiness.
They will endeavour to present themselves to any adult male at
every opportunity and are extremely promiscuous. Males are
strongly attracted to the females behavour and anal fur colour
change and will line up patiently waiting their turn in the
mating queue. Even strangers can join as long as they leave the
clan's territory immediately afterwards. It should be noted that
the males are not particularly fertile and as such the female
will only become pregnant occasionally despite its promiscuous
behaviour during the entire period. Fertilised females will
generally only have a single pup after a gestation period of 300
local days. For the first two years of its life the pup is
totally defenseless and remains both blind and deaf. It will
remain with the mother being nursed for a total period of five
years. The onset of milk production also releases an
oestrogene-like compound into the body that delays the onset of
the female season. At five the mother will wean the pup and the
proto-oestrogene enzyme will stop production so that the female
will once more become liable for seasons.

SENSES: Jala'Lak have frontal, binocular vision. They have a
light-reflecting layer at the rear of the eye called the tapetum
lucidum which increases visual acuity by reflecting weak incoming
light back onto the retina enabling the Jala'Lak to utilise every
scrap of light that enters their eyes. This adaption has meant
that they are colour blind.  Their hearing is excellent and are
capable of hearing much higher pitch that humans, upto 65,000
cycles per second in comparison to the human maximum of 20,000
cycles. They have an extremely poor sense of smell but they have
compensated for this by very sensitive taste buds on the tongue.
For this reason Jala'Lak will generally put strange items into
their beaks in order to "taste" their scent.

ANATOMY: Jala'Lak are vertebrate mammalian primates. Originally
using all four limbs for movement through the trees they have
increased in size and become bipeds. They have adapted to the
extreme climate by developing thick curly layers of insulating
fur that allows it to stay warm during the bitter winters by
trapping several pockets of warm air between the layers. In
addition, their blood contains an anti-clotting agent that acts
like anti-freeze preventing both blood and organs from freezing
up. This same fluid is also excreted through the tear ducts
protecting the eyes. In summer the fur flattens and acts as a
mere coat. The brain, like most mammals and pseudo-mammals is
cased within the head cavity. The mouth and nasal organs are
housed within a beak formed of calcified nail which protects the
organs from damage. The jaw is mostly adapted to the vegetarian
diet with sharp cutting teeth to the front and grinding teeth to
the rear with the exception of two large canines in the males.
These canines are only bared during territorial disputes or to
tear at carrion which is then chewed to soften it before
regurgitating it for consumption by the females and pups. The
prehensile tail has shortened and thickened to act as a
counterweight to assist with bipedal mobility but still retains
its prehensile ability with over 300 bones and many powerful
muscles housed there. The leg joints bend backwards and end in
circular, padded feet with five toes, three to the front and two
to the rear. The broad, circular pads allow the Jala'Lak to
safely navigate the many marshes that exist within the jungles.
When running they adopt a digitgrade gait, running on the toes
rather than the full foot. The hands also contain five digits but
two of them have regressed and calcified into mobile claws which
are usually folded against the wrist. The other three are
extremely flexible with one forming an opposing thumb to allow a
powerful grip. They are not very dexterous and small or delicate
manipulation is beyond their abilities.

Culture:

History: Archaeologists believe the Jala'Lak are descended from a
common ancestor with the dwarf Hala'aak since it is the only
other known arboreal species with a prehensile tail.
Unfortunately due to the carnivorous nature of most of Uaam fauna
there are no known fossil deposits containing the remains of
mammals until relatively recent times. They apparently developed
sentience about 200,000 years ago as the forests of the North
died and forced the pre-Jala'Lak to flee southwards. There they
found a comfortable niche at the top of the food chain and
stopped evolving. Recent studies seem to point towards the
Jala'Lak addiction for the Jhawa bud which seems to cause a mild
euphoria as a possible cause. They have never evolved any culture
beyond small packs and their highest evolutionary achievements
has been the ability to produce crude stone tools and to make
fire using flint chippings. The Jala'Lak were discovered several
centuries after Uaam was colonised and given their relatively
small numbers and near extinct nature permission was given for
the colony to remain.

Social Structure: The Jala'Lak live in small family clans
consisting of 3 adult males, 9 - 12 females and about 6 pups.
They are territorially nomadic moving around within a 50km area
that the females mark out with their urine. They dwell in weaved
huts made from dead branches which they refurbish once they
return to that particular area. The Jala'Lak of Uaam are
extremely passive, avoiding fights at all costs. Territorial
disputes are settled by displays of aggression rather than
aggression itself and consist of the males displaying their
canines and striking claws. They are a shy yet inquisitive race
much given to mimicry. They appear to have primitive rites which
centre around the 250+ "temples" spread throughout the forest. In
fact out of 342 known words in their vocabulary it is believed
that over 124 make reference to these rites.  These temples are
perhaps the greatest mystery of the race - each is identical; two
0.5 tonne Myer stone pillars from the Northern Atlas mountain
range 2,500km distant are set at a slant facing inwards, exactly
5.32m apart. A single 1 tonne blue stone pillar is set in the
middle of the mound in an upright position. The two myer pillars
have been cut into a rectangular shape with the central pillar
tapering slightly towards the top. Incisions have been carved
into the inner faces of the Myer pillars of three intersecting
circles. These temples can also be found on among the Giirakh
Jala'Lak where local stones from a mountain range 560km distant
were used. How the race were able to transport the stones such a
distance, how they measured the settings, how the incisions were
made and why are still mysteries. A basic translation of their
language has discovered that the race identifies the temples with
an entity best translated as the "God-Creature". There is also
the mystery of how such a primitive race was transported to
another planet many subsectors away. Both sub-races practice a
form of crisis monotheism centred on the temples. Intensive
LanSat searches of both planets have revealed no signs of any
other settlements, advanced technology or manipulation by the
ancients. The Giirakh Jala'Lak have developed differently from
the homeworld race; they are fast and agile,are extremely savage
and feral with cannibalistic tendencies. All attempts to contact
the Giirakh tribes to date have met with extreme hostility. In
addition the race has begun to adapt to the longer summers and
milder winters by shedding several layers of fur. They have also
exhibited a tendency to decorate their head fur with small twigs
and bones. Some tribes also dye the fur of their paws a deep
purple or red. Archaeologists believe that the race has only been
on Giirakh for about 3 to 4,000 years at most. How they arrived
there and why remain a total mystery.

Locality: Jala'Lak could not normally survive the bitter weather
of Uaam were it not for the many hot springs found throughout the
forest that raise the temperature of their natural habitat above
freezing most of the year round. That, coupled with the heat
reflecting quality of the dense forest vegetation, prevents any
of the heat from being lost and in addition protects against the
long bitter winds that further reduce the temperature outside of
the forest. The branches of the forest intertwine to form a thick
canopy of heat-reflective leaves which creates a localised
greenhouse effect. When the Northern forest died  the hot springs
of that region were uneffected but because the additional heat
was no longer contained it quickly dissipated. Many species were
forced to either adapt to the bitter weather or flee.

NOTE: Jala'Lak are a protected species and visitors to the
jungles are warned that injuring a Jala'Lak carries an automatic
death penalty.


Original Concept by Steve Hatherley
Species Details by Jae Campbell

Malaach

CONTACT: THE MALAACH

--------
OVERVIEW
--------

The Malaach (or Shassahhrhi, as they referred to themselves) are
an extinct race native to Hhrassahr (Undim/Ushra). They were
exterminated at the hands of the Ancients, in appromimately
-350,000 because of their savage and warlike manner.

They were descended from carnivore/killer stock which,
independantly, achieved a Tech 18 society prior to their
extinction. Their artifacts and ruins, found throughout Ushra and
in parts of Pact, Old Suns, Khandi and Mimu, are currently
believed to be the work of the Ancients.

The term "Malaach" is a Scanian word meaning "Messengers from
Beyond", and was generally applied to all extinct races that had
achieved a technologically based society. In 1115 Professor
Ishmaga Ershuk, author of "Legends and Lore of Dagudashaag
Sector", used the term to refer to a specific race which, he
claimed originated in Dagudashaag and was responsible for all the
Ancient artifacts found in the Sector. It is his theory that the
Ancients were not a single race, but an amalgamation of several
races, which had achieved a similar high technology level at
about the same time. This, he claimed, accounted for the variety
of sites. He further claimed that it was the Malaach that
transported humans and Droyne to Dagudashaag.

His theory, while well received by the general public, was later
discredited by the Academic population.

-----------
DESCRIPTION
-----------

The Malaach stood up to 1.5m high and varied in length (depending
on sex and age) between 2m and 6m. They had an outward appearence
similar to a hybrid Scorpion/Noxian Spider except, they had
sixteen limbs in total.

LIMBS:

Manipulation: The Malaach used six multiple jointed limbs, each
ending in a single boney "hook", for manipulation. These limbs
were clustered together in two groups of three, located either
side of the chest cavity. When not in use these limbs folded up
into two shielded sacs on the chest. Each cluster was capable of
working independantly or together to act as "hands". Fine hairs
on the base of the boney "hooks" gave additional grip.

Locomotion: They had a further eight limbs which were used as
legs. These were angled upwards like a terran spider and were
aligned symetrically along the abdomen region. Each leg was
segmented. A delicate coxa attached the limb to the abdomen. This
was protected by an armoured trochanter. To this was attached a
powerful femur and a long, slim tibia made of four distinct
parts. The leg ended in a large pad. The front pair of legs were
used as weapons and ended in two large, curved claws which also
gave traction in icy environments. The middle two sets of limbs
were primarily for locomotion and each limb ended in multiple
small claws and fine hair. The rear pair of limbs were extremely
powerful and enabled a Malaach to spring on to its victim from a
distance away. In the low gravity environment of Hhrassahr,
Malaach could achieve leaps of up to 12m in distance and of up to
3m in height.

Pincers: Each Malaach had a powerful pair of frontal pincers
which were located beside the chest sac's. These pincers allowed
the Malaach to grab and hold its prey. They were extremely well
armoured.

Tail: The Malaach also had a segmented, armoured tail which ended
in a poisoned stinger. This stinger carried a powerful acid which
it could inject into its victims. Females carried their tails
above their heads, in a similar manner to terran scorpions, while
the male carried their's curled beneath their abdomen.

SENSORY APPARATUS:

Movement: Hairs attached to the legs at the tibia were connected
to vibratory sense organs deep within the abdomen. These allowed
the Malaach to sense movement resulting from air current
disruption.

Scent: Unlike true arachnids, the Malaach had a pair of sensory
antennae mounted on their foreheads, which allowed them to
"taste" for air-borne scents.

Sight: Also mounted on the forehead were two transparent
membranes which protected three pairs of eyes clustered together.
Each eye was capable of independant function and, as a result, a
Malaach could keep track of several objects at the same time. The
lower pair of eyes supplied bifocal vision, the middle pair gave
long distance while the upper set sensed deep into the infrared
spectrum.

Hearing: The Malaach were completely deaf, beyond their ability
to sense movement caused by sound. This may had been one of the
chief factors that led to the development of empathic/telepathic
communication.

STRUCTURE:

External: The Malaach primarily had a structure consisting of
head, main body and abdomen. This was covered in strong natural
armour formed from bonded hair. Much of the external structure
differed both, from sex to sex and, in the latter centuries of
their existance, from Nest to Nest.

Internal: Unlike anthropods, the Malaach had an internal skeletal
structure. The external shell was formed primarily as defence.
They had a honeycombed bone structure which formed round the
internal organs shielding and cushioning them. The body was
filled with a foam-like phlegm which prevented internal damage of
the organs caused by blows. Their size dictated near mammalian
organs, including a circulatory system and twin hearts, bellow-
like lungs, a sensitive nervous system and two brains. 
The hind brain, located at the base of the abdomen, controlled
movement, the stinger and all involuntary responses. While
capable of functioning independantly, on a purely instinctive
level, it was normally controlled by the fore brain located in
the head. This controlled the deliberate responses of the hind
brain, the senses, the manipulatory organs and the pincers. It
should be noted that the male fore brain was up to four times
larger, and much more developed than the females. Of the four
sexes, only the Males and Breeders developed true intelligence.
The females had a empathically linked hive mind instead.


The rest of the anatomical detail varied according to sex; See
Below..

------------
REPRODUCTION
------------

The Malaach have four sexes.

Females: all Females, including Queens, can reproduce asexually,
by laying eggs which can only hatch into other females. Females
lacked the womb needed to reproduce sexually. They were the
racial warriors and grew to about 3m in length from antennae to
stinger. The shell consisted of natural armour plating covered in
small spines. This armour showed a great deal of variation, not
just between Nests, but between individuals born of the same
batch. The eye clusters were protected by a bristly eye turret
mounted at the top of the head, just in front of the antennae.
They had elongated faces, ending in small mandibles which
contained a poison sac. To the rear of the abdomen they had a
small egg sac. Unless controlled, they could lay upto 100 eggs,
each weighing about 1kg, in a year. 
Females were non-intelligent though highly instinctive, and would
always act to preserve the sanctity of the Nest. They shared an
empathic hive mind with the Queen which almost bordered on the
telepathic ability of the Males. Females lived for up to a
hundred years, though due to the races war-like nature, few
survived to old age.

Female eggs hatched after a 48 (std) day incubation period,
(though it was possible for them to stay in a form of suspension
for up to several years before hatching) and spent the first 3
years as two limbed larvae. The adults left the mindless larvae
alone and seemed to had no parental instincts towards them. They
survived outside the Nest living on the castouts. They were
extremely carnivorous and were even known to attack and eat
injured Males. After 3 years, and up to 20 moults later, they
swarmed back to the Nest. There they underwent chrysalis for a
period of another year. During this time the larvae were
converted into the Female form and burst forth. Generally, newly
metamorphosed Females were totally feral until the Queen made
empathic contact with each one and "impressed" it into her
service. As soon as they left the chrysalis they were capable of
producing eggs themselves and frequently did so.

Queens: Queens were the result of live births from another
Queens' womb. The embryo, as a result of witnessing a psychic
birthing trauma [PBT]1 while developing, inherited certain active
hormones which resulted in the Female Nymph metamorphosing into a
Queen during the pupae stage. 
Only one Queen could exist in a Nest at any one time, though
several "Princesses" and "Nymphs" could exist sheltered and
protected by the Queen. Queens grew to about 5m long and had a
womb below and to the rear of their egg sac. Only sexually active
Nymphs (Princesses) were immune to the desire to protect the
Queen and, were shielded against the Queen's powerful empathic
transmission which she used to control the Female warriors.
Indeed, they themselves would try and impress newly developed
Females to their cause.

Queens were fertilised by both males and the Breeder. Males
produced fertilised eggs in the Queen's egg sac while Breeders
produced Male (generally twin) offspring in the Queen's womb.
Psychic echoes caused by PBT resulted in the involuntary release
of certain active hormones into the womb which altered the
embryo's. In the case of twins the PBT frequently resulted in the
death of the weaker embryo. The altered embryo changed sex to
Female but, instead of being born as larvae, they remained in the
womb for a period of 360 days. The Queen then gave birth to a
miniature Female Malaach known as a nymph. For the first 10 days
the Nymph was extremely vulnerable as the plate armour hardened.
The Breeder, in an attempt to preserve future status quo, would
try to kill off all but one Nymph. The Queen however, would
attempt to protect them by keeping them close to her at all
times. At 3 years the Nymph entered a chrysalis stage during
which time it would shed its stinger, its main defense against
the Breeder, as well as its armour. It grew in size and developed
a womb. When it left the chrysalis state the "Princess" was
capable of using its empathic ability to try and prevent it being
killed. Within a year it would become sexually active and would
attempt to steal the Breeder. At this point it would enter into a
death duel with the existing Queen. If it won, it would kill all
its sisters and eat their corpses. Queens were capable of
breeding for 36 years and, like all females, could survive for up
to 100 years. Most Queens, if not all, were killed by stronger,
younger offspring. All Queens were capable of carrying a live
offspring and laying eggs fertilised by the ordinary males at the
same time.

1) PBT: The Queen's empathic emissions caused psychic overload in
certain species. The psychic feedback from this overload caused
the "male" embryo to alter sex through the Queens' involuntary
release of hormones into the womb. This overload (PBT) was always
terminal for the other species used. 
Males: All males were capable of fertilising a Queen but only the
Breeder could produce live offspring which metamorphosed into
other Queens and Breeders. Males were generally about 4m long,
had relatively light armour and had a much smaller, though much
more flexible, tail which it normally kept curled up. Males were
born from fertilised eggs after a 230 day gestation period. A
Queen generally laid a batch of about 10 each time and it is
believed that they could lay up to 1,000 a year. Each hatchling
emerged as a miniature male, fully functional, and with their
intelligence already awakened by mature males in the Nest. Young
males were protected deep within the Nest and intensively
educated. They took part in their first Funeral feast (known as
the Ceremony of Knowledge) at about 2 years old when they were
fed ancestral RNA. The Malaach RNA was disseminated throughout
the body at death, penetrating into the muscle tissue. Eating the
meat of Malaach males meant consuming small quantities of RNA.
This resulted in the young males suffering a fevered period, of
up to 5 days while they assimilated the inherited knowledge.
Thereafter the male was capable of assimilating information,
through RNA transfer, within hours. A small percentage of males
proved incapable of partaking of RNA transfers and were killed in
the hope of breeding this regressive trait out of the Nest. Those
who survived this period were classed as Hsarh or "Minor
Intellects". Over the next 4 years the Hsarh grew physically and
intellectually as they assimilated more and more RNA transfers.
At age six they were classified and established into a Hhairh or
"Guild", where they stayed and interfaced until they died. At
death they joined the ancestral RNA. 
Males were the only intelligent aspect of the race and
communicated by a type of telepathy which allowed them to "tight
beam" their ability. They could choose to "speak" to either
individuals or entire populations. They generally survived for up
to 300 years since, they led a pampered life protected by the
females. They used their psychic abilities to relay simple
messages to the females.

Breeders: Breeders were live offspring created by the interaction
of a Queen and an adult Breeder. Each Breeder was born as a live
offspring in the Queens' womb and had a normal gestation period
of 250 days. Breeders were born as miniature males, like the
normal Male off-spring. At about 2 years old, when they undergo
the Ceremony of Knowledge, they entered a crysalis period which
lasted for about a year. When they emerged, they had lost their
stinger and armour and had instead formed a thin skin. Their
sexual organ had also changed. On the tip of the penis small
downward facing barbs appeared. These barbs, during penetration,
caused the Queen to involuntarily retract the opening to the egg
sac and allowed direct fertilisation of the womb. These offspring
were always male unless the Queen partook of PBT during the first
200 days of pregnancy. Breeders were protected until they were
about 8 years old, at which time, the oldest Breeder offspring
fought the current Breeder in a duel to the death. This was to
ensure that the strongest survived to pass on its genes to the
Nest.

----------
BACKGROUND
----------

Prehistory: The proto-Malaach began its existance as a small
carnivore on Hhrassahr about -1,000,000. Its most dangerou s
enemy was other Nests of proto-Malaach. It was the threat from
its own cannibalistic species that started the evolutionary
defence race. It was unlikely that the race would have ever
developed intelligence were it not for a single specific
incident, the Hasharli Comet. In -750,000 the comet 's nucleus,
warmed by close passage to the primary star, caused a violent
retrovirus to filter down into the Hhrassahr atmosphere. Many
species died out. Several sub-races of proto-Malaach also went
down the road to extinction. One species, the Shassahhrhi
survived, though the virus altered the race. Over the next 500
years the bad and infertile adaptations died out. The Malaach
increased in size and grew a powerful armour to protect it
against radiation. The most unusual adaption was the creation of
Queens and Breeders. A single Malaach female line developed a
womb as well as its egg sac. It remained a useless adaptation
until a female bred with a Male born with altered genitalia. The
pain of intercourse caused her to close the mouth of the egg sac
and allowed sperm to reach her womb. The offspring of this was
the first Queen. She was capable of emitting an empathic
projection that caused the entire Nest to try and protect her.
She initially bred only males which were in her partner's genetic
image - the first Breeders. PBT was discovered purely by
accident. A Hrhas (a type of large grub) was killed in the
Queen's presence. This resulted in an empathic fit of pure
ecstasy for the Queen. She responded by releasing an echo which
was extremely addictive to the whole Nest. This Psychic Birthing
Trauma resulted in further Queens. The Nest soon brought more and
more Hrhas to the Queen so they could feed their empathic
addiction. When the male parent died and was consumed, the males
in the Nest discovered themselves suffering a fever. The females
were uneffected. On awakening, these males discovered that they
now "remembered" the experiences of the dead male. Several
Malaachs went mad and killed themselves but enough survived to
carry on the assimilation gene. Each of these Malaach were able
to pass on their RNA skills and memories to future generations
through their corpses. The first true Malaach Nest was
established. One side effect, was the loss of the normal Malaach
female to lay fertilised eggs. 

By -600,000 the only Shassahhrhi left were the Malaach. The
constant assimilation of parental RNA had led to true
intelligence. This intelligence was increased by the ability to
eat the memories and skills of dead Malaach. 

The race remained aggressive and the planet was in a constant
state of war. It was this need for offensive advantages over its
kin that led to the invention of technology. Each Nest remained
independant but the knowledge they discovered could be passed on
merely by the capture and assimilation of any male inhabitant.
Through the Ceremony of Knowledge their children would
instinctively learn all the knowledge of the previous generation.

The second racial crisis took place in -500,000 when the Malaach,
who had no idea of conservation, killed off the last Hrhas. Other
species were tested, in order to provide PBT, but none proved
successful. In the end the race was reduced to using Malaach
males under torture to provide the PBT. However, this was not a
very successful solution. Males were able to screen themselves so
only willing volunteers could be used. They had to be young and
often several were required to create sufficient PBT. To make
things worse, the Queen frequently aborted. 
Another solution was needed and fast. In an unprecidented move
Nest Hsrha hosted a peace conference between all the major Nests.
After the initial distrust was overcome, all Nests present agreed
to temporarily work together to find a solution.

Nest Rhhari were experts in genetic adaption and they explored
that angle, resulting in several variant species in the passing.
Nest Hsarh were experts in rocket technology and Nest Hsrha in
chemical warfare. Between them they developed a viable rocket,
which was capable of reaching orbit. Examination of meteorites
proved that life almost certainly existed on other planets.

During the next two hundred years technology advanced rapidly
from chemical rockets to cryogenics and generation ships. The
first generation ship was dispatched to Tethys. Each ship was, by
necessity, a full Nest, as no male was willing to depart without
a Queen. It was this inability to colonise without viable Queens
that was the main brake on the Malaach's ability to colonise
Dagudashaag.

During this period, although many of the guilds co-operated with
each other, the Nests still warred. At least one Nest was
destroyed by nuclear weapons before the guilds banned that form
of warfare.

Within fifty years of the first generation ships being
dispatched, Nest Rshi chanced upon the principle of the jump
drive. The first ship found itself in Deep space (at 1015).
Additional jumpships quickly allowed the Malaach to establish a
deep-space Nest capable of refueling ships. This totally self-
sufficient Nest was handled by the Hrashr, a minor, relitively
unaggressive Nest. Ships were sent to Laruu, Tethys and Nox. On
Tethys they discovered the proto-Hamaran. Samples were
immediately tested by the shipboard Queen. This proved that the
Hamaran were capable of supplying the needed PBT. The crisis was
averted. Later, when the generation ships finally arrived, they
found that the planets were already colonised by Malaach. Within
a hundred years jump 2 ships were establishing Nests on most
planets within the subsector.

Most Nests, aware of the risks of keeping their entire clan in a
single Nest, or even planet, started sending their Princesses out
with a segment of the clan to create affiliated Nests on other
planets. Some stayed close to the parent Nest. Others immediately
set themselves up as independants. One lesson the Malaach had
learnt was not to trust a single gene pool for their much needed
PBT. They sent out scout ships - small Nests - to try and
discover other sources. At least one ship reached Mimu and
brought S'mrii to Ambrym/Pact. For the most part, the Nests were
established in the Ushra and Old Sun's subsectors. The Malaach
developed functional teleport devices. They used this both as
means of transportation (of non-living material - the Stepping
Disks killed live material in transit) and as a weapon. Stepping
disks were generally set up several metres underground to create
portals above ground. Anyone stepping through such a portal was
instantly killed and their corpse transported to the larder where
their RNA could be extracted. Artificial replication of RNA meant
that the knowledge of a single individual could be passed on to
an entire Nest. Banks of RNA were established in case of a racial
disaster.

They hadn't yet solved the problem of organic transportation when
the Ancients entered their sphere of existance. This was the
first truly advanced race the Malaach had discovered. Their
initial reaction was to sample them for their PBT potential.
Unfortunately they proved highly acceptable. The initial
expedition was led by one of the Ancient's Grandchildren. The
Ancients immediately declared war and, in a period of less than
seven years, had completely obliterated the race. The final
solution, after destroying Hhrassahr and several other major
settlements, was to create a virus that corroded the Queens'
womb. The Malaach were dead as a race yet Nests kept on fighting
to the end. Several Nests were never discovered due to the racial
tendancy towards secrecy and defence. It didn't matter, the virus
still reached them and killed them off. The Ancients then set up
base in several of the Malaach Nests, stripping them of whatever
was useful.

---------
HOMEWORLD
---------

The Malaach homeworld, Hhrassahr, was in close orbit (0.2 AU)
around the primary star now known as Undim, a K7 V. The star has
a mass of 0.54 and a luminosity of 0.5 with only three orbits
occupied. Undim has a small M4 D companion in orbit 5 which had
two gas giants in orbit around it. 
Hhrassahr itself was a small world, 4,411 km in diameter with a
thin oxygen-nitrogen atmosphere. The gravity was 0.3g with a
hydrography of 32.5% and a surface temperature of 103oc.

Beyond, was the small gas giant now known as Pela with what was
then three satellites. The Malaach colonised all of them but only
on Shsr was a full Nest established. The Ancients vapourised this
moon so that the ring, now known as Amber, in orbit around Pela
is all that's left. Beyond that was the gas giant now known as
Tafri with its eight moons. In orbit five was Taya, the dwarf
companion, with its two small gas giants. 
Hhrassahr was an extremely fertile world until the Malaach
stripped it bare. It orbited Undim every 44.56 Std days and
completed a rotation every 30.15 hours. 

------------------
GOVERNMENT/CULTURE
------------------

Hhrassahr was a balkanised world. Each Nest provided for itself
and was in a constant state of war with every other Nest. Only
the Grand Guild of Union, which co-ordinated the racial survival
of the Malaach during the Hrhas crisis, and once more during the
Final war, could be considered to have been a world government.
Most Nests were governed by a representative of each guild within
the Nest. Since each science and academic pursuit was represented
by their own guild, this council was often made up of 500
representatives. The Breeder was also present, but only had
priority in matters relating to the welfare of the Queen. Only
males were represented of course. This council was slow to act
so, in matters military, total control was handed over to the
Guild of Honour, usually represented by the oldest Breeder
Prince. In practice, each guild made decisions for themselves and
only came to the Nest Council when a matter was too large for a
single guild to decide, or where the future of the Nest was
concerned.

Each Malaach male had the chance to rise to the top of their
guild. At six years old each male was tested and assigned to the
Hhairh or Guild that they were best suited to. Although
technically a male could refuse, to do so meant utter exile. A
fate beyond comprehension to the gregarious Malaach. Upon
entering a Hhairh each male was assigned a teacher. This teacher
had total control over them, even down to the matter of life and
death. A Malaach could only "graduate" once they proved their
superiority over their teacher; whether by intellect or
assasination. The outcome was the same. Each male amassed
prestige by the number of "students" they had under them. Once a
male won free, he was able to subdue students of his own. Only by
having, and successfully subduing, more students that the current
guild leader (or by assasination as before) could a male rise to
the top. Only the Breeder was exempt from this. His duty was the
preservation of the Nest through creating more Queens and Breeder
Princes.

Each Nest was designed differently, but most followed a similar
pattern. They were generally built underground. Most consisted of
many low tunnels interconnecting with the female nursery areas.
Deep below, in perpetual darkness was the Queen's dome. This was
a large cavern at the heart of the Nest site where the Queen
resided throughout her life. Her eggs were raised in the chambers
either side and, in the level above, were the male Guild
chambers. On the surface was the agricultural fields tended by
the females, with male overseers, and the industrial zones which,
by tradition were established a distance away from the main
Nests. In the later part of their history, just as some Nests
bred special variations into their race so some Nests became
individualised in design. The high, termite-like mountain, known
as Joker's Tower on Nox was one such, as is the now collapsed
spiral caverns on Folly. Each Nest had their own starport and
system defences. After the final war, most bases were simply
collapsed by implosion. Only the special construction of the
Joker's tower resulted in it being left standing as a silent
memorial to a race now utterly forgotten.

------------------------
LANGUAGE & COMMUNICATION
------------------------

The Malaach were utterly deaf beyond the ability to sense
movement caused by sound. The males were able to communicate
between themselves by telepathy. The females were near mindless
creatures that were connected by the ability to feel projected
emotions. Each female, when it came of age, was "impressed" by
the Queen. This was not a conscious ability, but merely the need
to feel secure. The Queen radiated raw emotional energy which the
female desired. In order to maintain this link it would do
anything. This was the basis of the female hive mind. The females
protected the Queen (and through her, the males). While the Queen
made sure they also participated in her emotive feasts. 
The Males did develop a written language though it was rarely
used. Knowledge was passed on, from generation to generation, by
RNA transfer. New concepts could be expounded by telepathy. The
written word was used mostly for cerimonial or memorial purposes.

-----------------
THE MALAACH TODAY
-----------------

The Malaach established Nests throughout many subsectors but only
a few have been discovered. The Malaach Nest/Ancient bases on
Besayes and Ambrym in the Medurma system (which was discovered by
Dr. Rothery), the Joker's Tower on Nox, a Nest on Ushra which is
currently under investigation by the Navy, a Nest on Kaurga which
is being investigated by KaurCorp. and the spiral caverns on
Folly. Few believe that these Nests were created by a single
race. Many remain undiscovered including the remnants of the
Malaach homeworld, the Undim belt. Many bases were collapsed or
utterly destroyed but there are at least two undisturbed Nests
that still exist in the Ushra subsector, on Argiluu and Cimmeria.

Strange as it may seem, the Malaach still exist today. The Noxian
Spider is actually descended from a dwarf race of Malaach which
survived through the female line only. Centuries of adaption to
an alien environment has resulted in the changes to the physical
appearance but it still retains the possibility of a genetic
throwback to Queens though there are no males left living to
recreate the Malaach race.

-------------- 
SCENARIO PLOTS
--------------

While it is not recommended that the Malaach be resurrected as a
full race there are several possible adventure plots available.

1. Aliens. The PC's find a Malaach base either in deep space or
on one of the planets mentioned later. By entering the base they
activate the life support and accidently release either adult
females or hatching eggs cryogenically preserved. These are not
intelligent and should be played as mindless monsters. For added
horror allow one of the frozen adults to be a Queen with her
ability to kill by psychic means. A male may also be used but
remember to play him as an intelligent yet vicious killer. Under
no circumstances should a viable Malaach Nest be allowed to
survive undamaged by the Ancient's plague. 

2. ARTIFACTS. The PC's find functional Malaach artifacts or
manage to activate one of the Malaach defences. The Teleporting
Stepping disks or a organically grown Tech 18 starship are
obvious possibilities.

3. DOCUMENTS. The PC's discover a Malaach base and find one of
their recording tablets. Through decyphering this, and through
mummified remains, the PC's discover that the S'mrii or Hamaran
may have been artificially enhanced by the Malaach as part of
their scheme to breed better sources for PBT. This may seem to be
verified by the fact that both races have ancient stories of a
"demonic" race which resembled scorpions. Regardless, there
really is no proof that the Malaach actually enhanced these two
races. It would however, explain the Hamaran's unconcious fear of
displaying psychic ability.

Scanians

SCANIANS REVISITED
------------------

Akiva

0935 A98A869-D  N Ri Wa    105 Im A2 V G8 D

Home world of The Scanian Culture and the Aquan adaptation.
Famous for the Scanian ability to read body language and Scanian
culinary arts. Akiva is a water world renowned for its fierce
beauty. The planet suffered a great deal of persecution during
the Psionic repressions due to its open teaching of psionic
abilities and its political ties to the Zhodani. The psionic
teachings were completely eradicated from the Scanian culture and
in 1021 were welcomed back into the Imperium.

Scanian

Scanians claim to be genetically engineered from Solomani stock
by an unknown company between -1,953 and -1,793. They are
perfectly adapted for water worlds and/or high gravity planets.
Their eyes are protected by a polarised membrane which gives
Scanians the appearance of an overall white eye apparently devoid
of iris or pupil. Membranes in the ears and nose prevent drowning
or pressure problems. Bones have been altered and muscle
structure increased to cope with high gravity. The Scanian
adaptation is also the ancestor of the Aquan which developed from
Scanian stock. Today the term Scanian also refers to those who
follow the teachings of the Prophet Benjamin Ra'Scania regardless
of race. The teachings of Scania are supposed to teach its
followers never to lie or cheat and to give them the ability to
read the truth in others.

Aquan

Aquans are Akivan descendants that have been fully adapted for
amphibious living in oxygen-bearing oceans. They are descended
from an early geneering experiment carried out before -1,793 and
are considered by many almost a separate race. The Aquan is able
to breath on the surface as well as under water but the adaptions
resulted in a loss of speech. To compensate the Aquans have
evolved a complex sign language.

WHO ARE THE SCANIANS?

These notes are drawn from a lecture given by Professor Surthi
Mataria at the University of Medurma in 1005.

"...The Terrans of that time had great medical abilities, and
without their extensive knowledge we would not be nearly as
advanced in the field of Human medicine as we are today. Terran
interests were wide ranging, covering such topics as psychology,
disease and ageing. The results of that work are well known: who
has not heard of Anagathics? But the Terrans also conducted
research into a darker area, genetics.

They achieved marvellous things with genetics. Deformities could
be corrected, some hereditory diseases were eliminated, and new
limbs and organs could be grown. But it also created dangerous
possibilities. Geneering could be used to create 'Supermen', and
much later the Ushran's demonstrated the flaws and dangers of
such a course.

This leads us to the Scanians and the Aquans. For years they have
presented a mystery to Imperial Genetobiologists. Most evidence
points to their being geneered from ordinary Humans by the
Terrans, but if this is the case it raises some major questions.

The main problem is that the supposed Terran achievements cannot
be fully reproduced today. The Second Imperium achieved an
overall TL of twelve, but was as advanced as TL fourteen in areas
such as medicine. No other bioengineering project carried out
during the Rule of Man ever had results comparable to their
successes on Akiva. True, study of Scanian genetics coupled with
certain fragmentary records did help in the successful geneering
of the Jonkeereen in less than five centuries but there is no
conclusive proof that the original alterations were carried out
by an unknown Solomani company.

Genesis, the site of the original Terran base, was discovered by
the visionary Benjamin R'Scania. All that he found has been
carefully preserved. The records contain huge amounts of
technical information as well as a history of Akiva's settlement,
but nowhere does it detail how those first Humans were modified.
Akiva itself hasn't helped in the quest for truth. The high salt
content and humidity is not conducive to the preservation of
fossil material. We cannot tell what lived there before the the
establishment of Genesis. Even the so-called mutated sub-species
that apparently existed at that time are pure conjecture - no
remains have survived.

Is it possible that Terran geneers achieved all this? Many
generations of scientists must have conducted the experiments,
even using such things as artificial wombs and growth drugs on
the specimens. It becomes even more remarkable when we believe
that there were many other types of modificatied Humans on Akiva,
although they apparently died out during the Long Night.

My colleagues argue that such changes were not possible, and
based on my own research it has to be admitted that this seems
true. Some point out the similarities between the Scanians and
the Ziadd (a Minor Human Race located in Zeda subsector), while
there are noticeable parallels between the Aquans and other MHRs.

The conclusion I must draw is that the Scanians and Aquans were
NOT created from unmodified Human stock. They seem to be the
result of selective breeding using genetic material from MHRs as
well as ordinary Humans. Those MHRs had already been modified by
the Ancients, and using them as a basis the Terrans produced a
number of totally new Humans, including the Scanians and Aquans
familiar to us today..."

A reply by Rabbani Yosua Khaldun, Yarhei Kel'a lecture, Gamala
University 1013

"Despite the many and frequent hysterical claims of Solomani
Party spokespeople over the years, the Sanhedra Ben Hakhamim
stand by their original claim as to the origin of the Akivan
races. Scanians were created by man, not by the Ancients.

All logical evidence points towards the Scanians being
genetically engineered by an unknown Solomani company; why else
would the Company have gone to such lengths to hide their
corporate identity? Why journey to Akiva to establish a secret
base? Unless they knew that they were about to experiment in
medical travesties unparalleled since 1945 (Terran Calendar)?
They knew that their work would result in mutations and deaths.
They knew that if they were discovered that society would have
branded them as the mass murderers they were. Yet, what a prize.
To experiment without limitations on man. By testing to racial
destruction they could learn a great deal about the species. They
had no-one limiting how far they could go. Judging by the records
that survived they had no conscience.

Almost by accident they hit upon two viable races - The Scanians
and Aquans. Then they fled in haste, abandoning their secret base
almost over night. They apparently only removed such
 equipment as could possibly be used as evidence against them.
Why? All other bases abandoned because of the onslaught of the
Long Night were stripped bare. Not Genesis. Did they flee because
there was the risk of discovery? Did they hope that the planet
would destroy their experiments or perhaps, as one fragmentary
record hints at, they themselves tried to destroy the races but
fled before they had the chance to confirm the success of their
viral "final solution"?

True, we cannot prove our claim by anthropological means but, by
the same token, nor can we be disproved... We make our claim
based on the evidence of our eyes and the records left by an
unknown Solomani Company long ago. Others may wish to deny it for
political reasons but that does not make it any less true..."

It should be remembered that the above views are theories: nobody
is absolutely sure of the true origins of either the Scanians or
the Aquans. The following article assumes the Scanian view but
most scholars maintain an open view regarding the racial origins.

SCANIAN PHYSIOLOGY

Scanians claim to have been genetically engineered by an unknown
Solomani Geneering Company from normal human stock in order to
allow colonisation of high gravity, water worlds. A Scanian male
will average 1.8m in height and weights approximately 80
kilograms. A Female averages about 1.6m and 68 kilograms.
Height-to-weight ratio for males is 45 kg per metre thereby
increasing muscular capacity. The Solomani geneers decided to use
a planet in the Dagudashaag sector [0935], which they called
Gaea, for their experimentation. To endure the intense cold, high
gravity and effects of the sea they altered the colonists genes
to create the following mutations:

Polarised membrane covering the entire cornea of the eye to
protect against sun, wind, dust and spray. This gives Scanians
an overall white eye apparently devoid of iris or pupil which
darkens to a light grey colour under intense light. Most
unadapted humans feel that this gives the Scanian an inscrutable
expression. The membrane increases near sight but at the cost of
decreased long sight.

Elongated eyelashes to protect the membrane from flying dust or
salt particles.

A pressure-sensitive membrane within the inner ear to protect
the ear drum. This membrane is thin enough not to affect sound
but hardens under pressure to form a shield. This obviously means
that at great pressure the Scanian is rendered almost totally
deaf but retains normal balance. This also results in total
immunity to motion sickness.

Membrane-like filters within the nasal passages allows free flow
of gases but prevents flooding by fluids.

Secondary layer of subcutaneous fat under the skin to increase
resistance against the cold and to increase frontal buoyancy.
This means that Scanian males float face up like females rather
than face down.

Controllable melanin pigment under the skin allows the Scanian
body to adapt to increased ultra-violet radiation. A Scanian's
tan will darken or fade within 24 hours dependent on the amount
of sunlight to which the body is subjected.

Skin excretion of a water-proof oil which completely covers the
skin to the depth of 1 micron. This enables the Scanian to remain
absolutely dry even when swimming.

Increased circulatory system to maintain blood flow under higher
gravity.

Bones altered so that they are composed of an internal
honey-combed structure to increase weight-bearing capacity
without increased weight.

Increased muscle structure to enable Scanians to cope with higher
gravity without hindering work ability.

Small breasts in females to prevent excessive drag due to
increased gravity and to better streamline the figure.

APPEARANCE

Scanian tend towards apparently fragile features, long eyelashes,
white to grey featureless eyes, a crop of white course hair on
the head and a lack of body hair on the rest of the physique. The
Scanian male is tall, usually olive skinned, well muscled with an
ease of movement that belays the high gravities of the worlds
they usually frequent. Females are generally tall, long white
hair, full lips with a deceptive slimness.

AQUAN PHYSIOLOGY

Aquans are Scanians that have been fully adapted for amphibious
living in oxygen-bearing oceans. They are descended from one of
the early geneering experiments and are considered by many almost
a separate race from the Scanians.

The further alterations carried out by the geneers consists of:

Valve placed deep in the trachea which is formed from 3 leaf-like
cusps of a thin but fibrous tissue which can be voluntarily
closed by reflex action to prevent flooding of the lungs.

At the rear of the throat near the Oropharynx is a gill. This
extracts oxygen from the water entering the mouth by using the
genetically strengthened muscles of the oropharynx to force water
through the gill.

The extracted oxygen is passed to specialised alveoli in the
chest cavity while the excess carbon dioxide is used to expel the
de-oxygenated water through the Aquan's blow hole at the rear of
the neck.

A major disadvantage of this adaption was the total loss of
speech. To compensate the Aquans have evolved a complex sign
language which they use in the place of a spoken one as a result.

In addition Aquans have an extremely streamlined body structure
with retractable genitalia in the males. The fingers and toes
have elongated and a thin fibrous webbing was formed between the
digits to increase swimming ability.

Aquans have been known to have reached depths of 1 kilometre
without ill effects.

When on the surface the Aquan's gill closes and the trachea valve
opens to allow air to enter the lungs. The Aquans, while
extremely graceful in the water are rendered relatively clumsy,
as a result of the limb alterations, on land.

APPEARANCE

Aquans are similar in appearance to surface-dwelling Scanians
apart from the obvious physical differences; the blow hole at the
rear of the neck and the elongated and webbed fingers and toes.
To prevent blockage of the blow hole while swimming all Aquans,
male and female, wear their hair either short, tied up or in a
mohawk crest. They are also less modest than Scanians,
frequently only wearing sufficient clothes to cover the genitalia
slits.

REPRODUCTION

The genetic adaptions recorded above were permanently grafted
into the Scanian male's DNA. While inter-breeding between
unadapted humans and Scanians or Aquans is possible,
Scanian/Aquan off-spring will only be born if the male partner is
a Scanian or Aquan. Although the alterations are relatively
stable in Scanian pairings there is a 1 in a million chance of a
throwback to unaltered human and a 1 in 500,000 chance of a
sport. Sports generally carry partial adaptions and are usually
sterile.

These odds increase to 1 in 100 chance of a throwback with a
Scanian or Aquan male/unadapted female pairing. Scanian females
have a gestation period of only seven months in comparison to the
normal 9 month period. As a result there is a possibility that an
unadapted male/Scanian female pairing will result in a
miscarriage since such off-spring are always unadapted. While
pairings between Scanians and unadapted humans do occur, it is
extremely rare for pairings between Aquans and surface dwellers,
even Scanians. This is believed to be because Aquans find
air-breathers movement in the water extremely clumsy and
ungraceful. That, coupled with the strong possibility of  such a
pairing resulting in unadapted or sport offspring makes such a
relationship unlikely.

PSYCHOLOGY

Scanians believe that they were originally intended to be
dispersed throughout the Imperium. As such, they claim as many
volunteers as were willing for their offspring to be born with
such alterations, were gathered from any healthy, suitable
source. Any binding culture was probably non-existent at first.

Then they believe the Long Night threatened or perhaps the
project's funding was withdrawn. Although supplies and equipment
were left behind, the lack of outside contact and the severe
planetary conditions took its toll. Several segments of the
colonists, in particular the more exotic or specialised
adaptions, completely died out in the intermediate period of
isolation. The Scanians would have probably remained as little
more than warring tribes on the road to extinction were it not
for the actions of the first Scanian prophet, Benjamin Scania.
The remaining people were bound together as one people by his
teachings.

He taught the vital importance of tradition and the power of
knowledge. From his teaching (known as the Path) the Scanians
learned to work together as a people. To learn from the past to
prepare for the future and to work towards the perfection of the
Scanian ideal.

Over the centuries his teachings have created an almost unique
culture. The physical adaptions and the emphasis placed on
logical deduction has resulted in a strong sense-oriented
realism. They believe work must be carried out to the best of a
person's ability and that good workmanship is a source of
pleasure. This desire to give of their best may also be
responsible for the almost total lack of dishonesty exhibited by
this culture. They can be devious but not untruthful. This work
ethic is even to be found in the Scanian recreation. Most spend
their spare time as part of voluntary study groups examining and
cross-examining various matters. The subject isn't important.
That the conclusion reached is both original and/or logical is.
Free expression is encouraged and nurtured among the children.
The main Scanian holiday period is an extension of that - the
Yarhei Kel'a (see below).

There is very little sexual or class discrimination except in
several small, variant sects to be found in Scanian communities.
Males and females fight in the military together, can enter the
Sanhedri or even become a member of the Twin Pillars. At present
the position of Nasii is held by an Aquan female, Melissa
Sa-Badasas. The distribution of wealth is fairly evenly spread
with less than 1% classed as rich and only 2% considered poor.
These are relative terms. The poor of Akiva would be classed as
moderately well off on most other planets. Lack of wealth is not
considered an obstacle to rising in Scanian society since
intellect not money decides one's status.

Scanians have strong privacy customs yet they rarely abuse them.
The Scanians have a social distance of 2 metres in comparison to
the Imperial average of 1. Aquans usually expect a minimum of 3
metres and Rabbani learn to cope with 1.5 metres. In addition
Scanians are generally very modest and will generally wear
clothes concealing most of the body. This varies though. Aquans
will usually restrict clothing in their own colonies to
sufficient to cover the genitals while Rabbani and merchantile
Nehutei wear long robes with hoods that conceal their entire
bodies. Despite this there are no modesty taboo's to be found
within any mainstream Scanian settlement.

Scanians have a strong belief in the value of sentient life and
although believe that war may be necessary to protect their
cultural existence all other killing, including execution for
murder, is wrong. Scanians have a strong conservation outlook
and, although not vegetarians by any means, will do everything
they can to protect natural wildlife. It is believed that the
blatant disregard for the local environment by Imperial mining
consortium's was as much to blame for the second Scanian riots as
the cruelty of Shaida Gakushuu.

Scanian's strong work ethic reflects in their punctuality in
meeting schedules but visitor's can be dismayed to discover this
does not carry over into any other aspect of Scanian life. A
Rabbani may turn up several hours late and a study group may work
far into the night if they are discussing an involved concept.

TRADITION

Like the Vilani, the Scanians believe that tradition is the
solid foundation upon which a stable society is built. Unlike the
Vilani, Scanians believe in exploring the very limits of their
imagination and talents. There is no aristocracy as such. Instead
scholars, regardless of background, are revered and honoured.
They study the past, but only so that they may better prepare for
the future. Scanian scholars (Rab'an) may spend centuries
dissecting and cross examining the most absurd of concepts, in
the belief that should such a concept become reality the Scanian
people will be prepared to cope with the consequences of its
existence without delay. Scanians view it thus;

The matter has already been discussed and the true path chosen.
Why hesitate?

The present, in the Scanian mind, is the time for action and
preparation for tomorrow. This philosophy was clearly verified by
the Psionic suppressions. Although the decisions reached may not
always be the most racially beneficial in hind sight, the Scanian
are always ready, and prepared, to react to any situation.

To help with the cross-examination of decisions, all Scanian are
expected to spend a period of 30 days every year (known as Yarhei
Kel'a or "Time of testing") at a Scanian centre of Knowledge
evaluating and cross-examining the thoughts of the local Rab'ani.
This concept of cross-examination is known as Ve'lma Iphka which
translates as "Perhaps the opposite holds true.."

Probably the best known trait of the Scanian, as far as Imperial
society is concerned, is the Ve'dtok or "Path of true seeing".
Each Scanian is trained to constantly examine their surroundings
so they can read the "truth" in all circumstances. Scanians have
an exceptional capacity for logical deduction. This, coupled with
their intense observational abilities (the magnifying abilities
of the Scanian cornea membrane makes even the slightest movement
noticeable) and knowledge of human and in some cases, alien body
language, has given them the almost uncanny ability to read
people like a book.

There is an old smuggler's saying in Dagudashaag which states
"There is only two things to fear in "The Business", an
Anpanaarian judge or a Scanian customs officer".

HISTORY

The system was first surveyed by Vilani scouts in -4,000 but was
left uncolonized until -2,053 when Solomani's attempted to set up
a supply base on the surface. This proved unviable due to the
excessive gravity and hostile environment and the base was moved
to Abbayi in -1,994. Gaea (Akiva) was later colonized in -1,953
by a Solomani company dealing in genetic engineering. Several
different approaches were apparently tried but only two have
survived through to this day; Scanians and Aquans. These
adaptions were carried out on the DNA of frozen embryo's and once
that adaption proved stable the geneers altered that breed of DNA
even further. The original base was sited at what is now known as
Genesis, deep within the rock face.

Whether any attempts were made to transport adapted humans to
other sites is unknown. What is known is that in -1,793 the
company left Gaea never to return. Behind them they left
centuries of adapted people who did not wish to return to Sol.
The company left behind a great deal of supplies, data tapes and
equipment, possibly intending to return for them at a later date.
Whatever the reason, they never returned and most of the
equipment remained hidden within their underground base. Over the
next two centuries, the various races of Gaea fell back to tech 2
and stabilised.

Most of the more exotic adaptions died off or were killed by
roaming bands of pirates who terrorised the various small
communities. During this time the Aquans remained deep beneath
the sea. A stable tech 1 society who completely avoided the more
violent surface-dwellers. Over the years they became little more
than a myth to the surface-dwellers. In -895 the various tribes
were on a steep path to total extinction. There was no
co-operation between the various tribes and everyone's hand was
against everyone else's. It was in this year that Benjamin
Ra'Scania was born. Legend has it that he was almost drowned
as a child because of his small stature. Little is known of him
prior to -862 when he stumbled upon the Geneer's supply base on
Genesis. Others of his age would have wrecked the place looking
for loot. Scania was of a totally different nature. He gathered
together the data tapes and over the next few months figured out
how to make them work. He was fascinated by all the knowledge
even although he didn't, at that time, understand it.

Over the next two years Scania gathered together supplies and
gradually made Genesis a fit place to live. Then he withdrew to
his data tapes and books. It was 22 years before he saw another
human being. He immersed himself in the knowledge, learning how
the technology worked, learning the history of his people for the
first time. In -838 Scania reappeared. He taught the benefits of
knowledge and learning at various local population centres but
was invariably chased away. Despite this, over the next two
years, he gathered together a small nucleus of disciples who he
trained at Genesis.

They were trained to study, to use the knowledge of the past to
understand the future. It was in -831 that he made his first
move. His disciples, armed with grav-belts and lasers, kidnapped
the eldest son of each tribal leader and brought them to Genesis
in secret. There they were brainwashed into learning. Next Scania
informed the various tribal leaders that their sons were alive
and that if they attended a meeting at Skal point they would be
returned alive. The leaders came to do battle, proud and defiant.
They left shattered men. The display of rebuilt technology
cowered them into submission. They expected Scania to enslave
them. Instead he asked only that each of their children be sent
to Genesis for a period of three years at the end of which they
would be returned. Slowly Gaean society was altered from within.
As well as raising the technology he taught principles of
civilisation. According to legend Scania is supposed to have
lived until -698 . Before he died he called together his
disciples, his sons of knowledge (Ba-Rab'i), and formed the first
council of knowledge (Sanhedra). Rather than have his mortal
remains become a religious symbol he ordered that his body be
disposed of at sea without ceremony.

It took a further 500 years before Gaea was fully united as a
people. At the first united council held in -187 a holo-recording
of Scania was played. In this recording, made in -837 , Scania
expounded his doctrines and stated that the planet was to be
renamed to record forever in the minds of the people this
momentous occasion. To everyone's surprise he stated that under
no circumstances was any planet or city to be named after him.
Instead he suggested the name "Akiva" (the Spirit of
Co-operation).

Centres of learning were set up and the people, now a single
racial type, studied the Path of Scania. In -79 the Sanhedra Ben
Hakhamim hypothesised the existence of the Aquan race. In -54
they (correctly) predicted the location of their ocean
settlements. In -53 Scanians ventured down to the Aquan
settlement of Atlantis and made peaceful contact with their
cousins. By -42 Aquans were represented on the Sanhedra Ben
Hakhamim and in -11 Sameil Dachaaus, an Aquan representative on
the Sanhedra was elected the first Aquan Nasii (twin ruler) and
the Path of Scania was studied by every living sentient on the
planet. Not blindly, learning by rote, but questioning and
probing the very depths of available knowledge. It was in this
period that R. Hasseim succeeded in proving the existence of
psionic ability and testing, and consequently training, began in
earnest.

Contact with other sentient races had begun in -306 with passing
Aslani traders. Scanians travelled with Aslani ships throughout
the sector and ship's were purchased which were systematically
dissected to better understand the principles. In -305 Akiva was
"visited" by representatives of the Aakhri Empire based at Argi.
THe Empire was a vilani settlement that had taken to enslaving
the other local races which had been reduced to pre-space flight
during the Long Night. An initial attempt to enslave various
Scanian clans on Akiva failed. In part this was due to the
intense gravity and extreme weather conditions, in part due to
the difficulty in enslaving or controlling a sea-going community
but mostly it was the Scanian mentality which refused to be
enslaved. In - 286 The Aakhri gave up its futile attempts to
enslave the Scanians and settled for a treaty allowing them to
build a military base in the system sited on Ha-Nasi. When the
Empire fell in 40 under the weight of its own caste-ridden
structure the base reverted to the Scanian people.

By 71 the Scanians had risen rapidly to tech level A and had a
small fleet of jump-2 ship's. The first contact by the newly
formed Third Imperium thought initially that they had found
another major race until the Scanian council explained. To begin
with the Scanians rejected offers of membership in the Imperium
but decided to accept membership in 75 when it became plain that
the Imperium was willing to move in force on non-aligned worlds.
Thus Akiva escaped the worst of the Vilani Pacification Campaign
and was able to begin seeding colonies of Scanians throughout the
Sector. In most cases, the Scanians were willing to share their
settlements with others and only in cases such as Gateway/Argi
(1331) where the environment was suitable for Scanian occupation
but hostile to unadapted races were full colonies created.

In 235 Scanians discovered several major breakthrough's in
psionic testing and training and this knowledge was exported
throughout the Core. Scanian psionic teachers were to be found in
almost every major psionic institute in civilised space. The
Study supported psionic training extremely well. In 480 Zhodani
diplomats were invited to Akiva to expound on their psionic
training. This cemented a strong bond with the Zhodani consulate
which continued right up to the Crisis of 799 . In 659 a newly
elected Rabban named Halc Shagraa suggested the possibility of a
psionic suppression by the Imperium. Although it was considered a
very slight possibility at that time, it led to the seeding of
major aspects of Scanian culture to the Scanian colonies.

The system of Nehutei (Messenger/Traders) was established so that
each centre would be able to retain free lines of communication
and to prevent any of the various colonies from falling away from
the Study and Path due to ignorance. In 787 it became clear to
the Sanhedra that R. Shagraa's hypothesis was about to become
reality. Rather than abandon the psionic teachings that had
become so much a part of the Scanian way they elected to fight.
The scattering of Scanian settlements were accelerated and all
such settlements were instructed to put aside psionic training so
that they would not become targets of repression. Links with the
Zhodani Consulate were strengthened. Although they were prepared
for war they did not expect the Imperium to strike so hard. The
Imperium on the other hand was  determined to decimate the
Scanian Institute. In 800 Imperial forces took Akiva and
successfully held it for 28 days but the combined problems of
high gravity and the Sanheichiir (Scanian psionic commando's)
attacks forced the troops to return to a high orbit siege. Even
there the Imperial fleet were not safe from attack. True, no ship
could leave port safely and the Scanian planetary defenses  were
limited but shuttles full of Sanheichiir were teleporting onboard
the battle cruisers and had successfully taken six out of
commission. Eventually, on instructions from Capital the fleet
settled in for a total siege. This lasted for 22 years until the
Scanian forces were sufficiently weak to be no longer able to
prevent another invasion. Akiva was totally decimated. Troops
killed thousands of known psionic's over the next six month
period.

A holo-video of the Empress Paula II was placed in the Shrine of
Creation at Genesis against the cultural belief's of the people.
This led to the first riots in 824 in which the Governor Riium
was assassinated. The Imperium replied by promoting Riium's aide
to Governor and granting him a free hand. Governor Shaida
Gakushuu, known in Scanian history as "The Butcher" celebrated
his new fortune by burning the University city of Gamala to the
ground with all inhabitants inside. 4 million people were
believed killed. Next he authorised the slaughter of every Rabban
and their family on planet. Over the next 6 months it is believed
that a further 12.5 million people died as a result of his acts.
Other Imperial's were sickened by his cruelty and by his sadistic
banquets of death. Report after report were sent to Capital but
they were apparently ignored for 15 months.

Instead Imperial mining interests entered the system and began to
use Scanian slave labour to strip-mine Akiva. On 132-825 The
Butcher was assassinated by Sanheichiir as he took part in
another of his infamous banquets. His body was internally
exploded by several top telekenetics who had survived the earlier
persecutions. This was the signal to start the rebellion. The
Imperial's fled from the naked terror of a race gutted by torture
and injustice. Once more the Imperial's retreated to their Naval
base on Ha-Nasi and awaited orders.

On 305-826 a meeting was held at Rehin port on Rachel between the
Sanhedra Ben Hakhamim and the Imperial forces. Due to the direct
intervention of the Sector Duke, Davin Viisarikaa a compromise
was agreed.

This agreement placed the Akiva system under martial law and
restricted traffic entering or leaving the system to Imperial
ships and Imperial citizens. Akiva was posted as a red zone but
it placed Akiva, Yosua and Rachel back into Scanian hands. The
agreement stated further that the practice of psionics must cease
immediately and a Governor would be based at Genesis to oversee
the Scanian government. It was a "marriage of convenience". Both
sides knew it and agreed to it.

Imperial interests were allowed to return to Akiva but only on
the understanding that a fair price would be paid to the
Scanians and that a more ecologically sound method of extraction
would be used. Akiva was apparently fully isolated.

In 854 Ba'ko-ba started experiencing extreme solar activity which
completely messed up sensors trying to track ship activity but
ground forces on Akiva claimed nothing unusual was occurring. In
reality the Scanians were using the cyclic flare activity to
cover the coming and going of a secret merchant fleet which was
trading Scanian minerals for technology. At the same time,
Nehutei were using the situation to keep information flowing
throughout the Scanian colonies. How the Scanians managed to
amass such a large merchant fleet and how they managed to keep it
completely secret from Imperial forces for over a hundred years
is unknown. what is known is that Twin Lines, using unadapted
Scanians, successfully negotiated several supply contracts,
including the supply contract to and from Akiva.

On Akiva the Scanians successfully turned from psionics, totally
eradicating it from the Path and Study. In 1021 Akiva
successfully negotiated for readmission into the Imperium. This
attempt was successful mainly because of Duke Viisarikaa's
tireless efforts petitioning the Moot on their behalf. It is said
that the Scanians never forget a debt, their loyalty has been to
the Viisarikaa family ever since. Akiva still retained an
Imperial Governor and the Naval base at Ha-Nasi would remain but
Akiva could freely trade with the outside world. At the
Liberation ceremony it was revealed that Twin Lines were Scanian
owned. The new Governor is believed to have immediately asked for
the seclusion policy to be re-instated. Akiva successfully
maintained its independence. At the time of the Second Survey
Akiva was given the UPP A98A859-D but as a silent protest the
Sanhedra Ben Hakhamim demanded, and got, the Government code
changed to 6 - A captive government. In 1115 representatives
petitioned Emperor Stephon for full rights. After examining the
facts, this was agreed and a ten year withdrawal period was
agreed to allow Imperial forces and mining interests to leave.
This was acceptable to the Scanian people and power was slowly
handed back to the planet.

After the Emperor's assassination, the Scanians were among the
first of the planets to back Karyn's stand.

HOMEWORLD

AKIVA 0935 A98A869-D N Ri Wa 1105 Im A2 V G8 D

Primary: Binary. Major- Kokhba, spectral class A2 V, mass 2.76,
luminosity 2.648. Companion (close)- Ba'ko-ba, spectral class G8
D, mass 0.63, luminosity 0.09.

Akiva: Mean orbital radius 10 AU. Period 17.17 Std Years/6,273.2
Std Days. Diameter 13,984 Km. Mass 2.278 terra. Heavy core,
density 1.60. Mean surface gravity 1.79g. Rotation period 33h 23m
18s. Axial inclination 53o 12' 25". Energy absorption 0.619.

Satellites: Two. Yosua, orbit 30, 4940km; Rachel, orbit 39,
1560km. Surface atmospheric pressure 1.90. Composition
oxygen-nitrogen mix. Hydrographic percentage 97%. Mean surface
temperature -2.47oc. Native life present, non-sentient. Total
system population 187.35 million.

Primary cities : orbital - Ha-Nasi.. 1.25 million, Starport A, N;
Yosua.. 2.3 million, Starport C; Rachel.. 5.8 million, Starport
B; Ma'Dakt orbital.. 0.34 million, Starport A.

Ground - Genesis.. 102 million, Starport A; Gamala.. 35 million,
Starport B; Vedo'kr.. 10.5 million, Spaceport F; Atlantis.. 21
million, Spaceport F; Lyonesse.. 4.5 million, Spaceport Y; Mu..
2.5 million, Spaceport Y.

World Government is under Imperial martial law, local affairs are
dealt with by a Feudal technocracy - (see Scanian Culture). Much
of the bureaucracy is run by the Bwap colony at Tree.

Social outlook: Progressive, advancing, competitive, peaceable,
discordant, friendly. Law profile (Scanian - undivided),
(Imperial - personal). 9-A6B69. Religious profile - 8B45B6-A.

POPULATION BREAKDOWN: 68% Humaniti, Scanian. 27% Humaniti,
Aquans. 4% Bwaps. 1% Humaniti, mixed, Imperial.

STARPORT PROCEDURE

A visit to an Akivan port can be an experience never to be
forgotten, particularly if your cargo is not totally legal or
your paperwork is not completely satisfactory. Scanian officials
are extremely thorough in their examination and the Bwap
obsession with the proper order of paperwork can be extremely
frustrating.

Landing Pattern - Ship's arriving in system must first wait at
high orbit (900 km) until they receive clearance to proceed
insystem. This may take up to 30 minutes before they are
instructed to either dock at Ma'Dakt Orbital or if a planetary
landing is desired to proceed to low orbit (180 km) and await a
window and landing berth location. Once landed, the ship remains
in quarantine until its received Inward Clearance by the Port
Authorities. Usually ship's can expect to wait no longer than 30
minutes before inspection. The Clearance party consists of a Port
warden, health officer, customs official, immigration official
(generally a Bwap), port engineer and their subordinates. Given
the high value Scanians place on honesty any attempt to bribe an
official will be dealt with very severely. The best advice is
keep your nose clean and play the game. Scanian officials will be
totally impartial and extremely efficient.

Starport Facilities - Akiva lacks any extrality. Scanian laws are
in force throughout the system. A minimum of 50 Berths and
runways are available on all planetary ports. Ma'Dkat has 120
berths. Traffic is currently 112% so expect delays in being
assigned a berth. Starship and spaceship construction,
maintenance and repair facilities are available and are extremely
efficient. INDISS has rated Akivan port facilities a full 4 star
rating. Search and rescue facilities cover the entire system and
are believed to be amongst the most advanced and effective in the
Sector. Full starship facilities and amenities are available.
Although free unrefined fuel is available from the sea the
excessive mineral concentrate may damage the ship's purifiers.

Port Costs - Refined Fuel 300 cr. Unrefined Fuel (with minerals
extracted) 50 cr. Berthing Costs 125 cr. for the first 6 days,
150 cr. per additional day. Warehousing Costs 15 cr. per tonne
per week. Security Costs 50 cr. flat tax per week. Shuttle fees -
Cargo 8 cr. per tonne, Passengers 50 cr.

Portside Facilities - All ports boast TAS facilities and
Traveller mission Hostels. Despite the lack of extrality most
pleasures and entertainments are available except blood sports
and illegal drugs. It can truly be said that Akiva lacks a black
market. Crime is extremely rare and dealt with extremely harshly
by means of fines and indenture. The best lodging is to be had at
the Makhiir-Hilton's which rate 5 stars though most crews prefer
to spend their stay at either the Devil's Bowl or Tetrachyal
Inn's (3 stars each). Security is provided by Scanian police who
are equipped with tasers.

Undersea Monorail's connect each city and port with each other
and the cost of a week's unlimited travel is a mere 50 credits.
Scanians are famous for their food. expect to pay between 5 to 15
cr. per meal. Speciality of Akiva has to be Zhoam Blue plate with
Bawyati kebabs and Haurm garnish. Expect to pay about 35 cr. per
person though. Try the Tr'akhi wine at 45 cr. per bottle. Argian
bhair is available in most localities for 3 cr. a glass.

A VISITOR'S GUIDE

Exo's - Due to the extreme cold and gravity most visitor's find
it necessary to wear Environment suits during their stay. These
suits increase body temperature to species normal while giving
support against the effects of gravity and water. These suits,
known as Exo's can be hired from the starport or from your hotel.
Cost is generally about 3 cr, per day.

Skal Point - A land of force and grandeur. Feel the pure power of
nature as the 30 metre high waves crash against the thousands of
dwellings clinging to the sheer cliff-face of the island
pinnacles. A common sport at Skal is Wave Riding. This sport
consists of surfing on top of these gigantic waves in 2 metre
length fragile self-righting trimarans, using only the twin
internal rudders to avoid crashing into the rocks surrounding the
islands. Be warned, the islanders have a natural skill and it is
not as easy as they make it seem. Thousands of visitors each year
suffer severe injuries trying out this sport. The buildings of
Skal, like many buildings on Akiva are ancient. Many date back to
the constitution. On Skal they are formed of Ironite clay sealed
with Sketra to form a hard, strong resin that is totally
waterproof. The buildings are layered onto the cliffs and their
rainbow colouring is due to the effect of centuries of sea, wind
and smoke.

Places to visit on Skal - Barnacle Inn. Experience the raw joy of
the environment at sea level. Enjoy true Scanian cuisine at its
best. Scanian cooking is renowned throughout the Imperium. Only
on Akiva are all the famous spices and minerals freshly
available. Try Zhoam Steaks with a fresh Sketra salad.

Immortality Bay. Where the Zhoam come to die. Zhoam are 12 metre
long preditory shark-like creatures that have earned themselves
the nickname of Coven Fish due to their schools always consisting
of 13 adults. Zhoam are extremely vicious creatures, killing
other vertibrates over twice their size. Those not culled by the
Scanians as food live for a life span of 25 cycles. When they
reach that age they head for Immortality bay where they ground
themselves in their thousands on the beach. They then lay their
eggs and die. The bones of the Zhoam contain an extremely
powerful enzyme which is only released as the bones start to
decay. This enzyme seeps into the sand and activate the newly
hatched worm-like zhoam. They then undergo an almost immediate
transformation doubling in body weight in minutes. These then
escape into the sea and slowly over the next two months alter
into miniature Zhoam. Scientists have discovered that the Zhoam
enzyme is an extremely powerful growth agent and can be used to
increase animal growth to the species maximum. Unfortunately this
enzyme is only really powerful in naturally dying zhoam and the
Scanian Government has refused exploitation of the Bay's reserve
on the grounds that exploitation may lead to the eventual
extinction of the species. Attempts to try and catch live zhoam
to breed has proved totally unsuccessful. It has been estimated
that over 12 billion zhoam have died on Immortality bay..

Genesis - Home of the Scanian Culture. Most of the city is
situated beneath the ground leaving the surface an island
paradise. Places to visit include the Sanhedra and a Yarhei Kel'a
study period. Visit the shrine where the first Scanians were
genetically created. At the Butcher's Folly see holo-tapes of the
Butcher's famous orgies and death feasts and see the original
holo of Empiress Paula II which sparked the bloody rebellion. The
entire city is heated by an extensive network of hot underground
springs. These bubble to the surface at Hela and its claimed that
the mineral's diluted within have a benevolent effect on a
person's health. Visit the Bwap colony at Tree. These magnificant
tree dwellings have been crafted out of ceramics to create an
identical haven to Marhaban with a floating landscape and
populated with animal species from Marhaban itself.

Gamala - Scanian university city totally devoted to learning and
study. The original city was destroyed by the Butcher. The
current city is a majestic paradise of tall ceramic spires and
crystal buildings that crowd the existing land space of the
Gamala archepelago and the surrounding bays. The lagoons are
totally safe due to the giant tidal ducks that surround the
islands turning the constant waves into electricity. Gamala is
famous not so much for its islands as for its house boat
population. Over 75% of Gamala's population live on the sea. Many
live their entire lives on these boats. Scanian house boats are
designed on a trimaran design with self-righting cabin roofs.
They naturally link together to form massive islands of several
acres. The roofspace is considered free market spaces and entire
businesses are based there. Possibly the most valuable souvenir
to take back from your visit to Gamala is a copy of the teachings
and a mooring post hand carved by Scanian craftsmen.

Places to visit - The Bay of Paryala. A year round wine festival
where everyone must be masked and any non-criminal behaviour is
acceptable. For those without sexual codes a visit the Barge of
pleasure is a must. The Batalu Sagasso is a gigantic forest of
Halacuo fern, home of the only non-aquatic life on Akiva, The
Bawyati. The Bawyati are a type of insect with triple 3cm wings
that live on the fern. The Bawyati life cycle is of considerable
interest since they begin life as kril feeding on the carcasses
of their parents. Growing and undergoing four molts the creatures
crawl out of the seaweed and change into grubs. These grubs are
the favorite food, not just of Scanian chef's, but also of the
bhari snail and the 85 metre long grag fish. Almost 80% of the
grubs fail to survive this period of their existance. After 3
months they crawl up to the underside of the fern and enter the
chrysalis stage. This lasts for 300 days, and when they emerge
they have changed into flying Bawyati,  where upon they live on
the wing for a period of three months, mate and land to lay their
eggs amidst the seaweed. Due to their lack of legs they are
unable to take off and drown, thereby providing food for their
hatching offspring.

Atlantis - First city of the Aquans. Atlantis is located at a
depth of 600 metres and consists of thousands of circular homes
surrounded by forest. Most Aquan homes follow a certain pattern;
several circular 3 metre high walls without a roof which forms
the main living area of the family, with deep caves carved
underneath which are the main sleeping quarters. Places to visit
include the Union parks where vast plantations of Haurm tree are
grown. These parks are used by courting couples and many
Aqua-villes have Haurm planted around the sleeping caves to
encourage a romantic mood. The Golden Spire is the cultural
centre of Atlantis and is the Governmental home "under the sea".
The Ghari reservation on the outskirts is the most famous aquatic
zoological reserve in the Imperium and several species, now
extinct in their home worlds, are to be found in the park.
Visitors to any aquan city can elect to stay at special hotels
set aside for oxygen breathers or experience sleeping underwater
at an Aquan Inn. All visitors are fully trained to use
rebreathing equipment before departing the mono-terminal and are
recommended to hire an Aquan guide for the duration of their
stay.

TIPPING - Not expected but a flat 5 cr. tip will encourage
continued good service.

Remember, do not ask a Scanian to help you obtain illegal goods.
Dishonesty is totally against their principles and they will feel
no hesitation in turning you in to the local authorities.

LANGUAGES - G"heim, a descendent of Hebrew spoken by almost all
Scanians, Galanglic, Meduu-Galaach and Aarani.
     
AKIVA: Medical Procedures

Traveller's to Akiva/Argi should be aware that prolonged exposure
to the high gravity environment can cause severe muscular and
cardiovascular strain, and increase the risk and severity of
accidents. Although gravity-compensating exosuits are available
many find these bulky and restrictive, and prefer to experience
Akiva's environment "at first hand". If you intend to do this, we
advise that you consult your general practitioner prior to
departure for a full medical check up - a high gravity
acclimatisation course, consisting of a regimen of physical
exercise in gradually increased gravity, and lasting some two or
three weeks, is also recommended. Many starlines operating
services to Akiva offer such courses.

Once on Akiva, hire a wrist biomonitor, which continuously checks
the condition of your cardiovascular system. "Booster" drugs to
lessen fatigue are available on Akiva. Although legal, we suggest
that they only be taken under strict medical supervision, as
temporary loss of co-ordination can result in certain
individuals.

Following these few, simple measures will help make your stay on
Akiva a safe and pleasant one.

                       Dr. Gerard deChantuille
        Surgeon-General, Imperial Ministry of Health, Medurma

To avoid injury during physical exertion on Akiva

Routine, High-G Environ, INT (Fateful)

Referee: Exertion includes such things as running, hand combat,
lifting loads in excess of STR x 1 and other physical activities.

REFEREE'S ONLY

1. The Scanians have not rejected psionics. In 799 a second
Psionics Institute was established at Abbayi. The Scanian colony
there is extremely small and new trainee's arrived dressed in the
dark cloaks of the Nehutei and trained psionics left in their
place so the population at Ma'kot remained stable. Only Rabban
who had achieved the rank of Sanhedra Rabbai were tested and only
those who would not be missed were sent. In addition the
Scanians have a large population of non-adapted followers that
the Imperial's seem to forget are totally Scanian in mind and
ideal. Once the Centre was established, training of the
Sanheichiir (Little Knives of the Mind) resumed in earnest. Each
Scanian Sanhedra tests for psionic potential and those found
trustworthy are sent to the Centre for further testing. In
addition, selective breeding programs at several off-planet
colonies have built up a sizable army of Sanheichiir ready to
fight.

2. The reason the Imperial Navy never caught on to the Twin Line
merchant fleet's coming and going's is the fact that each ship is
secretly equipped with a black globe. The technology was "bought"
from Medurman naval forces and duplicated on Akiva. There were
originally ten ship's so equipped, serviced by a single Medurman
engineer. When he died the Scanians kept the devices as well
maintained as possible but currently only 3 are in full working
order with another 2 working occasionally. Akiva is currently
petitioning Karyn for a crew to repair the black globes.

3. Karyn has been informed of the existence of the black globe
equipped ships and that Sanheichiir troops exist. She does not
know where the Institute is hidden though a select group of 4
Scanian Sanheichiir have been sent as a personal bodyguard. This
action didn't go down well with Karyn's personal guard, Dunbar's
Dragon's. This, coupled with Karyn's own prejudice against
psionics has resulted in the Sanheichiir being kept at a
distance. This alienation has resulted in the Scanians going
about their appointed task in a rather unorthodox manner. Karl
Ragoul, an unadapted Scanian has even formed close bonds with
several Alikasch street gangs. In particular the Eihkiylreakhu
gang are in very close contact with Karl and act as his eyes and
ears on Medurma. Karyn has appointed Carl Tarrant as liaison with
the Scanian Government at this point in time.


SCANIAN CULTURE

Scanians believe in the acquisition of knowledge as the only
true aristocracy. Scholars are respected above all and a broad
knowledge is respected most of all. Knowledge of the Teachings of
Scania are not a prime requisite and, while the majority does
believe in a divine creator, belief is not a prime requirement of
their culture. They are not really a religion so much as a way of
life. The Scanian Government consists of people participation at
all levels. at the Top is the Twin Pillars or rulers; the Nasii
(Military and Governmental ruler) who is chosen by election of
the populous from the Sanhedra Ben Hakhamim (Council of
Scholars), and the Avi'Di (Law Giver) chosen by the Sanhedra Ben
Hakhamim from the people. Their advisors are the Sanhedra Ben
Hakhamim, who are made up of the scholars who have proven their
mental ability in the testing, and the Savo'raim (Scholars of the
Path, the "high priests" of Scanian teaching). Beneath them are a
massive bureaucracy which runs the world.

 The military consists of a conscripted force known as the
Purifiers and a paramilitary segment known as the Regulators .
Advising the Avi'di on legal matters and acting as a court of
appeal is the Sanhedra Ket'ana which consists of 23 Judges. The
local police force are known as Gatekeepers and legal matters are
dealt with by three separate and distinct legal courts known as
Gates . The Gate Bakamaa deals with all monetary matters, The 
Gate Bah'ezi deals with contract law including marriage
contracts. The  Gate Babha'ti deals with governmental law.
Criminal law is dealt with by the Court of judgement which
consists of trial by three judges. In minor matters a person can
elect to have his case heard by Hedyo't . This consists of any
three Scanians who are totally impartial and any judgement
reached is considered legal. Appeal is to the Court of judgement
in all cases where the decision of the Hedyo't is not considered
satisfactory and the complainant must pay the full legal costs in
such a case. Since a single case can easily run into several
thousand credits even for a simple legal matter, the decision of
the Hedyo't is generally adhered to.

Marriage is considered a legal agreement and a contract must be
made prior to pairing, laying down the terms and conditions of
the marriage and the conditions of divorce. Before divorce can be
granted the exact sum in hard cash must be presented to the other
partner. This tradition even extends to a one night stand and
standard contracts are available at all hotels.

Every Scanian, whether genetically pure or not, is entitled to a
30 day period known as Yarhei Kel'a when they attend the local
Sanhedra and debate with the gathered Rabbani. This policy of
cross-examination extends to all aspects of Scanian life and
Government officials and judges frequently face cross-examination
of their decisions by mere members of the public.

It should be noted that the Ve'lma Iphka must be original and
show logic or the interrupter may find themselves in jail for
"Ignorant or abusive interruption".


CHARACTER GENERATION (By Adie Stewart)

Introduction

What follows is a set of role playing notes for the Scanians and
the Aquans. It consists of three main parts: a recap of the
physiological details of both races, a guide to their psychology,
and notes covering character generation. Finally there are
comments on how to play the races. Note that the term Akivan is
often used to describe the races. Referees and Players should be
familiar with the race before playing them.

Scanian Physiology

Scanians are physically similar to other Humans, although there
are a number of changes.

The skin excretes a microthin layer of oil that prevents it from
becoming waterlogged. Subcutaneous fat and an excellent
circulatory system allow Scanians to withstand temperatures from
-5xc to +30xc.

They are naturally bouyant, and normally they won't sink. Males
(like females) float face upwards.

The eyes are covered by a membrane, a 'third eyelid' that
protects against the sunlight and the high salinity of Akiva's
oceans. The membrane within the ear protects against high
pressures but renders Scanians hard of hearing in deep water or
on worlds with an atmospheric pressure of two atm or more. The
nose contains a membrane that is only permeable to gases.

Aquan Physiology

Aquans are closely related to Scanians and exhibit the same
modifications (see above). They extract oxygen from water via
their gill. While on land Aquans breathe using their lungs, but
most profess to finding air bitter tasting and thin, and a few
individuals are unable to breathe atmospheric oxygen at all. If
the gills aren't kept damp they become swollen and painful.

Aquans lack vocal chords and cannot speak. They communicate via
touch, sign language and writing, which can only be understood by
another Aquan or someone with a Linguistics skill of Aquan-1 or
better. To overcome difficulties many Aquans carry a keyboard
translator. The device has a speech synthesis unit, and is
designed to speak a pre-programmed word or phrase at the press of
a button.

Their fingers are much longer than those of normal Humans, and
are joined by a loose web. While it significantly aids swimming
it can be an inconvenience when using objects. Some Aquans remove
the skin from between their index finger and their middle finger
to make using tools and weapons easier. Male Aquans are able to
retract their genitalia to aid streamlining while swimming.

Psychology

Almost all Akivans follow the teachings of the prophet Benjamin
R'Scania, which are collectively known as The Path. This
encourages people to work to the best of their abilities for the
benefit of all. Dishonesty (which includes criminal acts such as
theft) is regarded as an illness of the mind, and lying (even to
protect the feelings) is anathema.

Wealth for its own sake is unimportant: money is a means to an
end, and that end is usually personal comfort. Each person's idea
of comfort varies considerably, and Akivan society tends to be
stratified into groups with similar tastes. Income tends to be
invested or rapidly spent. Charity is important, and if a family
member or friend suffers a misfortune they will be taken in and
cared for.

In a Scanian community PC's will find that EDU replaces Social
Standing in all matters.

Physical violence is distained. It is seen as a last resort, and
even then only minimal force is used. Those Scanians who show a
tendency towards violence are usually conscripted into the Akivan
military, the Purifiers. They work in conjunction with the
paramilitary arm of the government, a force called the
Regulators. Scanians are not stupid, however, and will act as
necessary if they are placed in danger.

Not all Akivans fit the mould. Although most follow the
principles of The Path a few have greater ambitions. They tend to
enter politics, the media, corporations or the performing arts. A
very few become wanderers, travelling among the stars.

----------
Characters
----------

Homeworld:

The homeworld of the Scanians and Aquans is Akiva, a waterworld
located on the spinward edge of Argi subsector in Dagudashaag
sector. It has homeworld statistics of Starport A, Large World,
Dense Atmosphere, Water World, Moderate Pop, High Laws, and Avg
Stellar Technology.

All characters originating on Akiva receive default skills of
Computer-0, Gun Combat-0, Grav Vehicles-0 and High Gee Environ-0.
High Gee Environ is a natural talent as opposed to a skill and
does not confer knowledge of Energy or Laser weapons. All
Scanians and Aquans are able to swim.

Characteristics:

Akiva is a high gravity world. Compared to other Humans native
Akivans are far stronger and have greater powers of endurance. On
the other hand they aren't as quick on their feet, and tend to
move in a slow, measured way. Make no mistake, their hand to eye
coordination is just as good, they are simply slower. Their
characteristics are generated as follows.

Strength       1D6+8   Average 9-A   Maximum 15.
Dexterity      2D6-2   Average  5    Maximum 15.
Endurance      1D6+6   Average 9-A   Maximum 15.
Intelligence   2D6     Average  7    Maximum 15.
Education      2D6     Average  7    Maximum 15.
Social Status  2D6     Average  7    Maximum 15.

The minimum score for initially generated Dexterity is one.
Lifeforce and all other secondary characteristics are generated
as normal.

Aging is as normal human except that almost all Akivan's are
allergic to anagathics.

Careers:

Although Akivans are diligent and hard working the military
dislike admitting them because of their belief in The Path.
Scanians suffer a DM of -2 when trying to enlist in the Imperial
Navy, the Marines, the Army, the Wet Navy and the Air Force.
Aquans suffer the same modifiers except for the Wet Navy, which
they tend to do quite well in: they receive a DM of +1 for
enlistment.

Those wishing to become Pirates receive a DM of -4 on their
enlistment rolls: if they succeed it shows insanity, they receive
a DM of +1 on all rolls for position and promotions. No Scanian
or Aquan is able to become a barbarian. All other careers remain
the same.

Psionics:

Psionic potential for Scanian or Aquan characters is generated
normally, and Training follows the procedures laid down in the
Players' Manual. In the past Akiva had an Institute (and even a
unit of Psionic Troops, the Sanheichiir), but it was closed down
during the Psionic Suppressions.

Role-Playing Notes:

Play Akivans as gentle, friendly and irritatingly honest. Be
prepared to argue a great deal and leap in to negotiate if the
situation becomes dodgy. If there really is no hope then blast
away with the rest of them. Observe the Path and always be ready
with 'helpful' quotations that will prove 'inspirational' to the
other characters. Never pull the punches when you express your
opinion: this can lead to hours of fun as you tell the fat woman
in the shop exactly what you think of her new dress.

Akivans have been seen as sombre, gloomy types without a sense of
humour. This isn't true. They are Human, and have the full range
of Human feelings and emotions. Remember that Akivan officials
are thorough, scrupulous and fulfill their obligations to the
letter. It is close on impossible to corrupt or bribe a member of
either race. They can be powerful allies or extremely dangerous
enemies. But remember that Scanians and Aquans are fun.

REFEREE'S ONLY:

If the Referee decides to use Sanheichiir in his/her campaign it
is recommended that they be NPC's. There are currently less than
300 in total and about half are low level psychics. Generation is
as per the Player's Manual. Despite current folklore, only about
1% of the Scanian population are fully trained adepts able to
instantly discern truth from body language. Most others have a +1
to discern truth due to being brought up in the way. Additional
Edu-based skill levels may be granted at the referee's
discression each year on a 10+ on 2d6 roll.

Gone Fishin'

Gone Fishin'
------------

It had been a bad week for the crew of the Andrea Fionna. War was
proving bad for trade. What cargoes that were available left
little margin for profit. Money was getting tight. The navigator
had put out the word on the dataNet that the ship was available
for charter, anything considered. Now they waited. The Tetrachyal
Inn was a spacer's bar, a good place to hang out and listen for
information. As they sat in their booth a tall dark-haired man
approached. "I hear you are looking for 'employment'. I have a
job for you. I want you to capture a fish. A dying Zhoam. I will
pay Cr.25,000 for one in the right condition."

The Job:

The stranger wants the team to capture either a freshly dead
Zhoam from Immortality Bay or one just about to die of natural
causes so they can extract the growth hormone and try to
artificially replicate it. The Zhoam is to be smuggled into orbit
where it will be transferred to another ship for transport out of
the system.

To deduce further information about the patron: [Difficult, Int,
Edu, Streetwise (uncertain)]. Referee: Roll one task for each
observation. If a Scanian character is being used this task
becomes Routine. If the result of of the uncertain task is -
untruth: then totally misdirect the observations. Some truth:
point out the basic facts but misguide them. Total truth: supply
the following information.

1) The patron is wearing a torc under his collar. Siian's wear
torc's as a reminder of their ancestor's slavery at the hands of
the Aakhrian Empire. Unlike the Argian torc, Siian torc's are
made from plastisteel and are without decoration.

2) He is extremely nervous. He had already approached several
other captain's today (including a couple in the inn) with his
proposition, and as a result it is only a matter of days before
he is captured. Because of this he will be willing to pay up to
Cr.50,000 if an appropriate fish can be delivered within 2 days.

RUMOURS

To obtain covert information

Routine, streetwise, Int, 15 min (uncertain, unskilled OK)
Referee: Some truth at this task either indicates the
contacts reluctance to talk to a stranger, or the contact
gives deliberately misleading information. On a mishap may
indicate the person is either a Gatekeeper informant or will
report the questions to the local police.

Roll 1d and read them the results of the following table;

1. A Vilani captain is being sentenced tomorrow for attempting to
take a Zhoam from Immortality Bay. True; attending his court case
will reveal that he used plastisteel drag nets but got caught by
the Protectorate whereupon he tried to bribe them. He is charged
with breaking the conservation laws and bribery.

2. Your patron is working for the Protectorate. False; He is
currently being followed by the Protectorate because he has been
indiscrete with his offers. Further probing will reveal that this
rumour is based on the fact that known Protectorate official's
have been seen tailing him on several occasions. Another official
is now following the characters. At some point in the adventure
the characters will need to confront this character or lose him.
Should they disappear suspictiously he will issue a 'stop and
detain' order. After two days if there has been no suspictious
activity he will stop following them.

3. Only Zhoam yearlings are supposed to be caught but rumour has
it that the Government is secretly culling Zhoam from Immortality
Bay. True; but only a limited number are taken each year and each
fish must be accounted for. Talking to the guards at Immortality
Bay (this is a well-known secret) will reveal their method of
using two fast hydrofoils with a plastisteel net dragged between
them to capture Zhoam. The players could decide to try and steal
a Zhoam from Protectorate laboritories at Vedo'kr. The security
etc. is left up to the referee to detail.

4. Zhoam can be passified by spraying chlorine into the water.
False; Chlorine irritates their eyes and induces a killing fury.
Chlorine is used not to passify but to identify a naturally dying
Zhoam. These excrete minor amounts of the enzyme into the water
which reacts with the chlorine turning it purple.

5. Protectorate have been using disguised sub's to get in close
to Zhoam schools without inciting them. True; The smooth shape of
the sub's are disguised with modelling foam and the engine
quietened by fitting a larger propeller and a de-regulator to the
engine to randomise the engine pattern.

6. Due to the recent treaty only Dulinor's fleet are on system
protection duty. They are bribable. True; Scanian law is limited
to the surface of the planet and their moons. If the characters
can take off with the Zhoam then even if they are intercepted it
will be by Dulinor's men who are only interested in offences that
affect fleet or system security.


Zhoam Fish:

Normal statistics:

Eater, usually found in schools of 13, swimmer, 800 kg,
Hit Pts 2D/1D+3, Armour - Back; Battle -1, Underbelly; Jack,
Teeth, horns (treat as spear) & fins (treat as club), a Zhoam can
perform two attacks per combat turn - A8 F2 S3.

Dying Zhoam:

Eater, solitary, swimmer, 750 kg, 2D/1D-3, Battle +1,
Jack -1, Teeth, horns & fins, A9 F0 S2.


Immortality Bay:

The bay is in reality the centre of an extinct volcano. The
Northern cliff-face collapsed in several millenia ago. The
surrounding sides protect the bay against the elements. The beach
is composed of black volcanic ash and the decayed fragments of
Zhoam bones. Tourists can visit the Bay but are restricted to the
top of the volcanic walls where they can use coin-operated
telescopes to observe the Zhoam. No-one (excecpt Protectorate) is
allowed down to the beach itself. The site is only open to the
public during the daytime hours and the bay is patrolled by two
guards. During the day at least 6D of tourists will be present
and any attempt to climb down will result in the Protectorate
being informed. The bay is patrolled by 1D hydrofoils armed with
lasers and radio-linked back to base. Each boat holds 4 Scanian
official's each armed with laser pistol's. Aquan's avoid the area
due to the danger of attack by dying Zhoam. At night the guard
doubles.

Note:  All guards and NPC's should be generated according to the
quick NPC guide on P. 43 of the Referee's Manual.

There are two possibilities for capturing a fish, catching it at
sea or steal a freshly dead specimen from the beach. In order to
ensure a dying specimen from the water the PC's will need to head
into the Bay where you risk an increased chance of being spotted.
In addition, healthy Zhoam schools may attack. Its assumed that
all attempts will be made at night. Any attempts made in daylight
will be automatically spotted within 30 mins and Protectorate
sent to investigate. On the beach the PC's must avoid dying Zhoam
and find a newly dead fish.

Note: at any one time there will be 2D dying Zhoam on the beach
at Immortality Bay and a further 1D in the water.

Zhoam can take several hours to die out of water. They seem to
enter a type of suspended animation and only waken out of it when
its intruded upon. Beached Zhoam are just as dangerous as those
in the water.

To identify death in a Zhoam [Difficult, Medical,Biology,
Hunting, Int, 1 min (uncertain, fateful)]. Referee: If the result
of the uncertain task is - No Truth: The characters are in combat
with the Zhoam. Some Truth: The players must roll their Dex or
higher on 2D to escape or they will be in combat. Total Truth:
The Zhoam is dead.

To determine enzyme level of the dead Zhoam: [Difficult, Biology,
Chemistry, Edu, 5 min]. Referee: The character must have access
to the proper equipment to perform this task successfully. This
task will determine whether the Zhoam has excreted its enzyme
yet.

The characters must decide on a method for transporting the
Zhoam away from the beach without being interrupted by the
guards and Conservation Protectorate boats..

If the characters decide to try and intercept a Zhoam on the
way to Immortality Bay.

To identify a dying Zhoam in open water (more than 25km from
the Bay): [Impossible, Hunting, Int, 3 hours (uncertain,
hazardous)]. Referee: If the result of the uncertain task is - No
Truth: the characters boat will be actively attacked by a full
school of adult Zhoam. Some Truth: the characters have found a
solitary male but it will turn out to be scouting rather than
dying and therefore useless. This will only be discovered after
analysis of the carcass. Full Truth: The characters have
discovered a Zhoam heading for Immortality Bay. Again this will
only be revealed after analysis.

To identify a dying Zhoam within 25km of Immortality Bay:
[Difficult, Hunting, Int, 10 min (uncertain, hazardous)].
Referee: See task above.

Methods of catching:

Weapons: Akiva has an extremely high law level and attempting to
buy or smuggle heavy enough weaponry to perform the job will
result in almost immediate arrest. Even if they escape they will
be wanted characters.

Explosives: While its possible to buy explosives the noise it
makes will arouse Protectorate boats and the Zhoam will be
totally destroyed.

Speargun: The chances of penetrating a Zhoam's armour are
extremely low, that coupled with the fact that they then have to
try and land a furious Zhoam bent on revenge for the pain its
just suffered should rule out this method.

Net: Providing the net is made of a strong compound which has a
minimum of 1000 kg breaking strain and is hard to cut then they
should be able eventually to catch a Zhoam. Winches will be
needed to lift the Zhoam onboard. How the characters passify such
a creature is left up to them to decide.

To land it To land a Zhoam by net: [Difficult, Hunting, Str, 1
min (uncertain,hazardous,unskilled OK)]. Referee: This task
assumes that the characters are using a net that is strong enough
and cannot be cut by the Zhoam's horn. If the net being used does
not satisfy these criteria increase the task to impossible. This
task must be rolled at least twice.. Once to snare the fish and
again to land it. If the result of the uncertain task is - No
Truth: The fish has escaped from the net. Some Truth: The fish is
partially snared but can still trash out at the characters and
boat causing full damage. Total Truth: The fish is snared and
totally entrapped. If the fish manages to avoid capture for three
successive attempts then it will be considered to have escaped.

To by-pass Scanian Protectorate boats: [Difficulty, Off=Sensor
Op's,Def=range, 3 min (confrontation)]. Referee: Use the most
favourable sensor scan difficulty level from among the unit's
UCP. Use the range from the sensing unit to the target unit as a
negative DM. Optionally the character may use his Computer skill
in place of sensor op's. Evaluate the results of this task as -
Extreme failure: The scan failed and the characters are totally
unaware of the Protectorate boat's location. Failure: An unknown
target identified but unable to pinpoint location. Success:
Target and direction identified but range not known. Extreme
success: Target's identity and exact location pinpointed.

To evaluate a Scanian Official's susceptability to bribery:
[Simple, Bribery, Soc (Confrontation, uncertain, hazardous)].
Referee: Scanian's will always refuse bribes and will take
any attempt to bribe them as an insult. If the characters
fail this task let them attempt to bribe the official.

To successfully lie to a Scanian: [Formidable, liaison, skill
(confrontation, uncertain)]. Referee: The unnamed skill is some
skill appropriate to to the lie (Admin, Trader, etc.) If the
Scanian is an adept the task becomes impossible. Familiar aliens
such as vargr or aslan treat at a lower difficulty level. Totally
inhuman or lesser known aliens treat as a simple task. If the
result of the uncertain task is - No Truth: The Scanian will
confront the character with his lie. Some Truth: The Scanian is
uncertain and will ask more questions (re-roll task) to confirm
his suspictions. Total Truth: The Scanian is completely fooled as
long as the players don't do anything suspictious.

Once the fish is captured it must be smuggled onboard their ship
and hidden until they are out of the system.

Cargoes available to ship out of system include: Radio-actives
Cubed fish paste in kilolitre containers Wood various chemicals
in sealed containers live fish in a massive cold storage
facility.

It is left to the characters and referee to decide on the method
of getting the Zhoam onboard and passed customs. It should be
noted that the customs are extremely efficient. Attempts to
take-off and land outside of a port will be treated extremely
suspictiously and a team of marines and customs officers
(including an engineer) will be dispatched to any ship in minutes
of landing. Once in space the charcters need only dial a local
communet number for the Siian to arrange an interception within
an hour for the cargo to be transported.

It should be noted that unless the Zhoam was dead when they found
it or a minimum of 1d hours has elapsed since the characters
caught it then the Zhoam will still be alive and trashing. It is
up to the characters to detail how they will kill or restrain it.

Final note: The Sii will be unable to synthesise the enzyme and
will ask the PC's to supply them with a regular supply of dying
fish at Cr.30,000 per carcass. It's up to the players whether
they accept this offer... the crew of the Andrea Fionna didn't.

Tracers

TRACERS
-------

1. Introduction

The PC's were in deep trouble. Money was running short and there
was no available cargo on planet. Their Broker didn't hold out
much hope of finding them a viable cargo before the Qwielya
harvest which was two weeks away. In the meantime their ship sat
in dock, empty and ate into their reserves with berthing charges.
They headed back to the Starman's Mission on Heartbreak Row with
the devout intention of spending what little spare credit they
had on an all out attempt to get blind drunk. As they entered the
dim interior of the old run down hostel they noticed the desk
clerk call them over. His voice wheezed out of his artificial
voice box, "Pretty lady wa' lookin' for youse. She in bar
awaitin'. Youse can' miss her, onl' brunette on planet near
stuff.."

At the bar sat a tall, platinum blonde women, about 25 years old,
slim and extremely sophisticated. She moved like a cat as she
turned towards them and introduced herself. "My name is Sharik
Maihagu, I have heard on the grapevine that you have some, shall
we say, unusual talents. True?" The PC's grinned. "I want you to
trace my father... I lost track of him twenty years ago. I'm
willing to pay and pay well..."

2. The Job

If the group agrees to help, Sharik will agree to pay all
reasonable expenses and offers a Cr. 250,000 reward if they are
successful in finding her father. If pressed, she will agree to
about Cr. 3,000 each if the PC's ask for an advance. Once the
money is finalised she will explain that her father, Hammon
Maihagu, ran out on her mother when she was very young but that
she holds no animosity towards him. She's due to get married in a
month's time and would like to trace him so that he could be at
her wedding. The trail is not totally cold as her father was
Idex-registered and she was able to trace him through the
Brethren here to Hellas. Unfortunately he vanished two weeks ago,
just before she arrived. There was no way he could have known she
was trying to find him so there had to be another, possibly
sinister reason for his sudden disappearance. She will supply the
following information;

Name: Hammon Maihagu  Age: 67  DoB: 122-1051  
Born: Argiluu (1317) Profession: Computer Cryptologist 
Place of Work: Elsland Advanced Security
Idex No: A295BH-45E5

If asked about her father's current address Sharik will be
extremely vague but she will state that she will try and find
that out. She will also pass over a recent holocube but will
appear distressed if asked as to how she obtained it.

To try and find out more information: [Difficult, Carousing,
Interrogation, Int, (Confrontation, Uncertain)]. Referee: Ms.
Maihagu is extremely tight-lipped. She will claim to have no more
information but, on an exceptional success, will state that she
believes her "father" has recently remarried. 

REFEREE'S SYNOPSIS

"Hammon Maihagu" is an ex-deck jockey (Information Broker) who
found himself, rather unwillingly, working for the Lau Yancy
under the Ushran Crime Lord Francis Stonewall. He ran, but not
before grabbing computer files on Stonewall's drug distribution
network. He was picked up by Ushran Internal Security and, in
order to prevent being sent to jail, he became a witness against
Stonewall. Stonewall was sent down for twenty years but "Maihagu"
was still a prime target for Yancy enforcers. The Ushran Witness
Relocation Department (WR1) supplied him with a false Idex and
gave him a new start on Hellas. Then a judge overturned
Stonewall's conviction on a technicality and released him. His
first act as a freed man was to order the slow destruction of the
man who wrecked his drug empire. He managed to bribe a WR1
official to reveal the deck jockey's new identity and sent his
top assassin (Ms. "Maihagu") after him. Thankfully for Hammon he
discovered that a Ms. Maihagu was booked on an incoming flight
and ran. The WR1 had set up two more identities for him in case
of such an emergency. Unfortunately he was unable to leave a
message for his new girlfriend before he left. Ms. "Maihagu" is
aware that her face is well known to law enforcement officials
and has decided to use the PC's as a cover.

If the PC's decide to falsify the information or run out with the
expenses money, nothing will appear to happen for a few weeks.
But, at their next port of call each of the PC's will get the
distinct impression that they are being followed although all
attempts to trap the follower will prove useless. Then, one night
down a dark alley, a gang of several Yancy enforcers (a minimum
of two per PC) will jump them and attempt to injure them
permanently but will try not to kill them under any
circumstances. 

The attackers will flee rather than shoot them outright, but this
must never be stated... only hinted at. If the assailants are
captured and questioned, they will be unable to tell the PC's why
they are being hunted.

To gain information from the Enforcers: [Difficult,
Interrogation, End, Int (Confrontation, Uncertain)]. Referee:
Only the suspect can use End & Int as a DM. Up to 3 interrogators
may participate at any one time. They may combine their skill as
a +DM but only to a maximum limit of 8. If the task succeeds the
suspect must throw on the Mishap Table. Those performing the
interrogation select how much dice the suspect must roll (up to
3D) The damage is applied equally to Int and End.

Interrogation will reveal that the thugs know nothing except to
state that a major power in the Yancy, a Francis Stonewall
ordered the attack. The orders were to hurt them but not "bless"
them with a quick release. Yancy talk for prolonged torture.
Thereafter, the characters will be followed by Yancy hitmen who
are under strict orders to cripple but not kill. The only way to
get rid permanently of the hunters will be to personally confront
Stonewall at the Yancy Citadel, Kiszi Mashumba, on Argiluu.

3. Undertaking the Investigation

Should the PC's decide to try and find Hammon Maihagu, there are
several possible starting points. They have his business address,
his Idex number and date of birth and a recent holocube.

Referee's Note:

To gain useful information or to find out where to go next:
[Routine, Carousing, Skill (Confrontation, Uncertain)]. Referee:
The unnamed skill is one appropriate to the conversation or
setting (suggestions are: Legal, Streetwise, Admin, Leader). The
referee should set up a rather long time increment for this task.
It takes a lot of conversation to gain useful information. To
deliberately pump for information increase the task difficulty.

Insist on the PC's rolling to stay determined after each failure.

Difficult, End + Int

CREDIT CHECK

A check on his credit rating (at any bank) will reveal only that
he is a moderately wealthy man with a good credit history. If
they look over the clerks shoulder at the screen as he calls up
the information they will learn that his last transaction
occurred exactly two weeks ago. No further information can be
obtained in this manner.

REPORTED MISSING

If the characters decide to report Hammon Maihagu's disappearance
to the local police they will have to fill out several lengthy
forms. At the end of which they will be informed by the Desk
Officer that although a report will be circulated, because there
is no suspicion of foul play and Mr. Maihagu is an adult in full
control of his faculties that no other action can be taken. He
will then take the forms over to the computer and pass them over
to another officer who will inform them that Mr. Maihagu has not
been arrested or hospitalised but beyond that she can give no
information as his Idex is tagged as Extremely Confidential. She
will remark that Maihagu must be an extremely important person to
rate that.

ELSLAND ADVANCED SECURITY

E.A.S. is situated in a large business park on the outskirts of
the city. Guards are everywhere and from the alarmed metal grills
over all the windows it is obvious that the site is extremely
secure. To the side of the building are a pair of large waste
disposal skips. One contains shredded paper only, the other,
marked "Non-Confidential" is filled with paper for recycling. If
the PC's search the skip they will discover a couple of papers
that should have been shredded. The papers are: a memo which
shows the personnel manager's name is Tara Shagami and an old
interview card that will allow up to three of them access to the
personnel manager's office. 

Should they go straight into the front desk without the card the
receptionist will refuse to let them see anyone unless they have
an appointment. If they try to sneak past him, security guards
armed with body pistols will intervene. If they ask for an
appointment, to speak to someone, the receptionist will offer
them an appointment for next week at the earliest. Play him as a
"more than my job's worth" type, too scared to be willing to
accept a bribe. 

The PC's will need to use subterfuge in order to gain any
information. The receptionist is extremely tight lipped and will
only give information if he believes that it was for Hammon's own
good.

The referee should award the PC's with a visit to Hammon's office
if they successfully convince the receptionist. Some successful
ploys include indicating that it is in Hammon's financial
interest that he be found quickly, or that there is medical
reasons why he must be tracked down. Attempts to convey the idea
that they are police will be successful but any attempt to
actually claim to be police will result in security being called.
If they gain the receptionist's confidence he will tell them that
Hammon was rarely at work as he was on secondment to the Ushran
Security Council and had been for the last six months. He
generally only came into the office about once a month and the
rest of the time he accessed the equipment from home. He can tell
them that Hammon lived at 156 East Level 5 with his wife,
Angelina. If asked, he will state that Hammon's been working for
them for several years but only recently moved to this particular
office. He will also tell them that Hammon was a widower who
recently remarried. He will also confide that Hammon is often to
be seen drinking at the Rameses Club on East level 3.

If they manage to get to visit his office they will find an
immaculate office obviously little used. If they manage to
detract the receptionist long enough to do a quick search they
will find a alphanumeric list taped under the desk drawer, on the
desk is a small holocube of a beautiful women in her late
thirties and an empty envelope with StarFlight Travel emblazed on
the corner. 

To identify the list as Idex numbers: [Routine, Int, Admin 1 min
(Unskilled OK, uncertain)]. Referee: Success means that the PC's
recognise the list as a series of unrelated Idex codes.
Exceptional Success will result in the PC's realising that most
people use their Idex codes as Communet numbers.

D185HG-23K8, Q834VC-50S2, S934JD-36V6, M273FX-73L2, L099HG-18L5,
G916FD-29D1, L765DR-82D5, G792SX-96H9, K439GL-68J1, A931WV-32I6.

If they obtained and used the appointment card (the receptionist
will not check the date) to gain access to Ms. Shagami the
personnel manager, they will again have to gain her confidence.
Attempts to pretend to be police or private detectives this time
will result in them being immediately shown the door. If they
succeed Ms. Shagami will pull out Hammon's employment file. It
will reveal the following information. Hammon was apparently born
and educated on Hellas. He married 36 years ago and she died
about three years ago. No children. He remarried last year to an
Angelina Greenaway, 38 and lives at 156 East Level 5. He was
hired by their head office three years ago but due to an apparent
clerical error, she only has records dating back to last year
when he was moved to this office while working on secondment for
a Government Department, she is unwilling to state which. He is
in perfect health. The files does contain a copy of his gene
code, there is also a copy of his infrared body map as used by
the Centre's security if the PC's think to steal it.

STARPORT

If the PC's visit the starport with Hammon's holocube they will
discover that staff don't really look at their passengers. None
of them will recognise the cube. A computer check on his Idex
will reveal that not only hasn't Hammon left the planet in the
last few weeks, has never been off-planet in his life. If they
think to check out the tramps and hawkers that infest the
starport they will eventually find a Hari Krishna disciple who
was proselyting in the Main passenger lounge on Terminal 7 two
weeks ago. If the PC's buy a copy of his religious mem-clips he
will remember someone resembling the picture in that terminal
that day. A check on ship's leaving that particular day will
reveal only four passenger carrying ship's departed with male
passengers;

1. The Van De Greistoock, a subsidised merchant heading for Nox.
2. The Kunta Bunduki, a 1,000 tonne passenger ship heading via
   Nox to Ushra.
3. The Fa Tsan, a free trader heading for Kikaduum via Adele.
4. The Lady Lovecraft, a subsidised merchant heading to Nafud.

TRAVEL AGENTS

If the PC's decide to check out the travel agents (or if they
discovered the envelope in his office) they will eventually
discover that there is no sign that he has left the planet (an
exceptional roll will reveal that he has never been off-planet in
his life) but that he had booked tickets with StarFlight Travel
to visit Nox next year. If the characters have a copy of his gene
code taken from his medical files they can cross-match it against
all travellers leaving the planet in the last three months. 

To convince the Clerk to allow them access to the Passenger
Manifesto: [Difficult, Admin, Legal, Int (Confrontation,
Uncertain)].

The computer, however, will refuse to give any information other
than to confirm that someone has left two weeks ago unless the
PC's insert the person's full name and/or idex. Hammon's code
will give an "Incorrect answer" reply. If the PC's have the list
and have realised that they are Idex codes they can imput them
but again without success. Checking the back issues of departures
will reveal four passenger ship's left that day.

4. A Friendly Visit

If the PC's obtained Hammon's home address from his work place
they will find a small but expensive and well furnished
apartment. His wife, Angelina, is a beautiful 30 year old. She
will take some time to answer and will be extremely reluctant to
open the door. Throughout she will use the door vid unit. If the
PC's explain that they are looking for Hammon on behalf of his
daughter she will appear confused and mutter something about "but
he hasn't got a daughter??" If they describe their employer she
will appear frightened but will quickly agree that yes, that's
his daughter from a previous marriage. She will claim that she
doesn't know where her husband went, what department he worked
for, etc. If the PC's ask her to confirm anything about her
husband she will quickly agree even if it contradicts something
else she said. If the PC's make up something totally false she
will agree that is true also. If confronted with a contradiction
she will burst in to tears and switch the door 'phone off. No
amount of hammering on the heavy security door will elicit any
response. If the PC's call back the next day they will learn from
one of her neighbours that she's gone away for a few days.
Angelina will also cease to exist. She will comment in passing
how this one at least lasted a few months. If questioned, she
will reveal that Hammon lived with a succession of beautiful
women but had seemed to go stable with this one for the last few
months. If the PC's ask if he was ever married, she'll burst into
laughter at the thought.

5. Confrontation

If the PC's realise that Hammon's official background is at odds
with the details supplied by his daughter they may decide to talk
to her again. She will meet them at the public square. Standing
nearby will be several well built men and women, obviously
augmented. If they confront her with the inconsistencies she will
initially plead innocent. She will claim her story is the true
version and she doesn't understand how his official story got
altered. She will offer them Cr. 10,000 each to keep working on
the case and to call her immediately they found out any more
information. If they try to push it she will admit that her
father is an "unusual" man but will refuse to comment beyond
that. Any attempt to threaten her will result in 1d6 enforcers
jumping to her aid. Should the PC's decide to get out at this
stage, go to "If The PC's Run..

6. The Rameses Club

If the PC's visit the Rameses Club on East Level 3 they will
discover an exclusive gambling club. The stakes are high, lowest
bet is Cr. 100 and the drinks cost about Cr. 50 a glass. In the
background is a live "entertainment" session. Showing the
Holocube around will result in the PC's being quickly expelled
from the club. Subtle questioning of the barmaid, however, will
reveal that Hammon was a big spender. He liked variety in his
women, but over the last few months had taken to living with one
of the "exotic" dancers, Pippa. She thinks she remembers him
talking about visiting the Joker Tower at Nox but for some
reason, and it definitely wasn't shortage of money, he never went
off-planet. She doesn't know where Pippa lives now. If the PC's
check with the doorman, he will not remember Hammon but will
realise that the barmaid is actually confused as it is actually
another regular customer, a teacher at the local school, who's
always wanted to visit the Tower.
 

7. The List

If the PC's have discovered the Idex list in his office they can
run a credit check on the list of Idex codes which will reveal
that all the people listed are high credit. No further
information is available without names. If the PC's check the
Communet index against the numbers they will find that, like most
people, these individuals use their Idex codes as their contact
numbers. Calling them will reveal a motley looking bunch of
villains. None will give any information and at least one will
threaten to do grievous bodily harm to them should they come
near. While they are trying to find that information, they will
spot a small advert stating that Daya Crua, an "information
broker" (deck-jockey) is available for hire.

8. Information Broker

Daya is a Lancian who makes his living obtaining computer based
information for others. A free-lance hacker. He will want to know
why they want to find Hammon and if he thinks that there is a
chance that they mean to harm Hammon he will refuse to help.
Depending on how much sympathy they manage to obtain he will
charge between Cr. 2,500 and Cr. 10,000 for the information. He
can check the following information if asked. Note if any of the
PC's have computer or Comms skills he will willingly accept
assistance and reduce the overall fee by 10% per skill level.

To access computer files: [Varies, Computer, Comms, Edu, 3 min
(Fateful)]. Referee: Each task has a different difficulty level.
Note that although PC's can add their Computer or Comms skill to
Daya's (up to a maximum of 8) only Daya's Edu score is
acceptable. On an exceptional failure the hack has been
discovered and the local police informed. The PC's should
determine in which order the search should be carried out.

8a. The List

Daya will recognise them immediately as Alphanumeric Idex codes.
Each will seem perfectly normal except that cross-checks
 on any data prior to three years ago does not exist.
There are no birth or marriage certificates, credit sales,
records of education, etc. The people appeared out of no-where
three years ago with an untraceable background.

8b. Hammon's Credit Trail 

Shows that an Ushran Government Department, WR1, has been lodging
Cr. 2,000 per month into Hammon's account since it was created
three years ago. He is classed as having a good credit history.
There was a Cr. 300,000 withdrawal two days before he vanished
and there has been no further credit withdrawals since then. The
information also shows him to be unmarried.

8c. Medical Check 

If the group have obtained a copy of his gene code Daya can run a
cross-check against emigration records. If they failed to obtain
a copy, Daya will try to download Hammon's medical file
. It will reveal that Hammon has received no further
treatment since he went missing, he started with the doctor on
the same date he opened his bank account. The file will reveal
his gene code. 

Crosschecking against emigration  could take several
hours unless the PC's remember the Travel agency. Cross
referencing the search with StarFlight Travel ticket holders
within a one week period will produce an exact match with a
"Achmed Connors"....

Achmed Connors, born 155-1051, Argiluu Idex. K184VF-65L0
Single, works for Ushran Department WR1, a member of the 
Church of Ascension he left for extended leave two weeks ago
heading for Adele on board the Fa Tsan.

8d. Achmed Connors

Department WR1's (a sub department of the Judicial department)
computer is heavily guarded , the local Church office
isn't  and reveals no trace of Achmed Connors having
ever undergone the Rights of Passage. Since every adult,
practicing or otherwise had to undergo this ceremony this seems
to confirm that the Idex is, to say the least, inaccurate. A
credit and or registration check  reveals no substance
to his history prior to three years ago. If the PC's think to run
a similar check on Hammon, his previous records will reveal no
birth registration, no education. Hammon did not appear to exist
before three years ago.

8e. Angelina 

An Idex check will reveal that she was Angela Greenaway until she
married Hammon last year yet, a search of bank records, medical
records etc.  will reveal that all were registered on
the same day three months ago. There is no birth registration or
marriage registration prior to that. There is a marriage record
but the record was entered in to the system only three months
ago. A cross-check with her medical gene code  will
reveal her to be a 25 year old, registered exotic dancer named
Mary-Anne Phillipa Marsden (Pippa). There is no credit trail
since she left under either name. 

8f. WR1 

If the PC's try to find out what the WR1 department does they
will alert the police who will trace the call. Daya will suddenly
grab his unit and bolt for it screaming that he's been traced. If
the PC's grab or try and delay him as he leaves he'll inform them
that he's just tried to hack into the Ushran Witness Relocation
Department's files. He will only impart this if he honestly
believes that the PC's will hold him long enough to guarantee
capture. From the time of Daya's first warning the PC's have
exactly 3 minutes to disappear before the police arrive to arrest
them. Remember, the police have no idea who they are looking for.

9. Adele

If the PC's report any of their findings to Sharik Maihagu, she
will offer to cover all expenses for a trip to Adele provided she
and a guest accompany them. If they agree, she will leave one of
her people with them to "oversee" arrangements while she obtains
her luggage. Should they attempt to take off, without informing
her of their destination, they will find her packed and ready
standing outside their ship with two of her "guests". She will
insist on coming with them. If they refuse, her men will detain
them until Security arrives. At this point she will press charges
claiming that they are thieves. Police will find a small diamond
brooch amidst their bags. They will be arrested and charged but,
after two days of interrogation they will be released once it
becomes clear that Ms. Maihagu has left the planet.

The journey to Adele will be uneventful. If Ms. Maihagu
accompanies them, she will spend the entire voyage in her
stateroom. Her "guest" will prove to be a quiet body builder type
who refuses to speak about Madam. Anyone who pushes it could end
up in a fight. Note, "Philip" is physically augmented and his
body system is immune to most commercially available tranq.
drugs.

On Adele the PC's (and Ms. Maihagu who will now refuse to leave
their sides) will discover from emmigration that Achmed Connor is
staying at the Blue Moon Inn. Enquiries there will reveal that
Mr. and Mrs. Connor have not been back for a couple of days but
their room is booked up for the week and their luggage is still
at the Inn. Ms. Maihagu and Philip will immediately book in. If
the PC's think to check out Connor's room they will discover that
his bags are sitting packed ready for a quick departure. Taped
under the bedside cabinet is a fax "Make your way to Ushra. Agent
Bhalak will meet you at terminal 211." It is unsigned but if the
PC's think to check out the despatch number at the top they will
discover that it was sent via secure Governmental despatch. The
room will reveal nothing more of interest but, should the PC's
take their time over searching they will hear a noise outside the
door. A few seconds later Ms. Maihagu will enter with Philip. If
the PC's hid they will see her place a variety of bugs in the
room. Philip will eventually call out from the door, "Hurry up
Shanna, a maid's coming!" They will then hurry out. Should the
PC's stand their ground, Ms. Maihagu will look momentarily
surprised then laugh and ask them what they found. If they show
her the fax she will be extremely interested. She will make a
quick phone call, relaying the message to an unknown person,
before closing the circuit. If the PC's ask who the message was
sent to, Philip will usher them out of the room. From this point
on Ms. Maihagu and Philip will stay in the Inn. Ms. Maihagu will
attempt to get the PC's to stay out of the way but will refuse to
pay them any more money until she has met her father.

Should the PC's do the rounds with the gene code and holocube:
[Difficult, Carousing, Computer, Edu (Confrontation, Uncertain)].
Referee: On a success they will discover that Achmed Connor has
recently been to the Ushran Embassy. There they will learn the 
following information -

1. Achmed Connor has just posted bond for a Masui Taralak to
   emmigrate to Ushra. 
2. Hammon can be found waiting for his receipt in a back street
   bar near the starport. 

At the bar they will eventually spot a disguised Hammon in the
rear booths. At first he will refuse to admit that he is either
Connor, Taralak or Maihagu. If they try and bodily take him, the
barman will threaten them with a shotgun. He will be totally
unco-operative unless they mention that they are with his
daughter. At this, Hammon will burst into tears. Through the
sobbing he will tell them that he has no daughter. He will
eventually confide in them, admitting he originally worked for
the Yancy as an Information Broker under a crime lord named
Francis Stonewall. One day he decided to get out and turned
states evidence. The WR1 (Witness Relocation Department) gave him
a new identity and transported him to Hellas. Unfortunately the
case was dismissed on a technicality and Stone was released. He
swore to get even and set about tracking Hammon down (under no
circumstances will he tell the PC's his real name). Fortunately
Hammon got a warning that an assassin was on the way and used a
second identity set up for him by the WR to flee. 

His girlfriend joined him only a few days ago. If he can get him
off planet he knows that the WR will reward the PC's highly.
After all, he still has information that would send Stonewall
down for life. Information that, until now, he has refused to
give to the "Filth".

At this point, the PC's have to decide whether to hand him over
to his "daughter". She's a trained assassin who will kill Hammon
and attempt to frame the PC's for the murder. Remember, it is the
PC's who have been asking the questions. She has no intention of
paying them their "recovery" fee. 

If they decide not to hand him over, they must decide how much
help to give. Should Ms. "Maihagu" or Philip discover that they
helped him escape they will bring the wraith of the Yancy down
upon them. (see "If the PC's Run..")

Remember they have to also get "Mrs. Connors" who is currently
shopping and prevent her from returning to the hotel. Even should
they manage to take the assassins out they would have an
extremely difficult time explaining to the local police what had
occurred. Hammon would prove more of a liability than an asset as
he will claim the PC's kidnapped him and threatened to kill him
so he could maintain his freedom. At the first opportunity he
would escape off-planet leaving the PC's to their fate.

IF THE PC's SUCCEED IN GETTING HAMMON OFF-PLANET

A week after they arrive at another planet Hammon will send a
message to the WR1, an  Agent will turn up and take Hammon into
protective custody. The PC's will be questioned as to their
involvement and how they managed to break the second identity. If
they admit their methods the WR will make a report and reward
them Cr. 25,000 each. Should they refuse to co-operate the WR
will only cover the cost of any expenses since they met up with
Hammon. 

The WR will be willing to create false identities for the PC's to
help them to flee from the Yancy but even if they refuse there
will be no trouble. Stonewall is presently in the process of
fleeing and the other Crime Lords are too involved dividing up
his territory to worry about revenge.