Travellers Guide to StariumXCV - User contributions [en]

Masian

2024-10-12T00:01:24Z

173.31.57.112:

[[File:20170615_masian_race_banner.png |600px|center|Masian Banner]]

<h2>Short Story Introduction</h2>

"It's been almost year, Komisar... We must have an Ascendency!"

Komisar Ramarata placed his pen down carefully on his desk and looked slowly up at who had interrupted him. Seeing that it was a Kunstheld, one of the highest caste, he clasped his hands together and sat up a little straighter.

"Druma-rajar, you honour me."

"You must forgive my bluntness, Komisar, but this is important. Some of the Kessler grow restless not knowing if their children will have their Ascendency day."

"I understand this, but we have heard nothing from the Ober Versamen. There can be no Ascendency until-"

"Until? Ramarata-razar, the gate has been inactive for a year now! It hurts me greatly to admit it, but even our best Ingenieren and Kunsthelden have not been able to repair it. Komisar, we must assume that we will receive no instruction from home. We are on our own."

[[File:0_5_1_bust_0_1.png|250px|right|Masian male by James Goudie]]

"This is most irregular Druma," Ramarata said rising from his seat. He winced at the Kunstheld's words. Although his companion was of a higher caste, such insulting language was most unusual. He walked around the desk to face the newcomer more directly.

"For my entire career I have relied, no, depended on, the guidance of the Ober Versamen..." he trailed off with a shrug.

"Blast it, Ramarata!" the Kunstheld exploded, clenching his fists angrily. "Use that mind of yours and come up with a solution. Show some initiative for a change. I know you politicos are capable of it from time to time!"

"Druma-"

"No. No more excuses. We have Grudners working in the factories! Grudners! That is how near to anarchy we have fallen. We need leadership now, more than ever."

Ramarata twisted as if he had been struck. Never before had he seen a Masian raise his voice to another, let alone lose his temper like that. Trouble on the streets must be even worse than he realised.

The Komisar turned away and rounded his desk once more going more slowly this time, tapping the top of the table with his long knuckles as he did. He stopped by his chair and looked up at Druma once more. His eyes narrowed and he nodded quietly to himself.

"I will appoint you to head this planets' Ascendency Commission."

"Ascendency commis-" Druma interrupted, clearly thinking it some bureaucratic stall.

"Without the guidance of the Ascendency Council, I have chosen to create our own Ascendency test."

"What? You can't do that!"

"You said yourself that I have to innovate, to go against the regulations set upon us," Ramarata said flatly. He waited a moment for a reply, but was met with only flabbergasted silence.

"And as our eldest Kunstheld, you are in the best possible position to oversee this effort."

"There might be hope for you yet, Komisar Ramarata-rajar," the Kunstheld said eventually with a growing grin, "I will do as you ask."

<h2>Racial Overview</h2>

Equally loved and reviled, the unassuming Masian race has played an integral role in Concordium history. They are unfortunate victims of chance, their path being altered dramatically and irrevocably. However their future is entirely in their own hands. Their ability now is unquestioned, as they number among the most prolific gadgeteers in the galaxy with each Masian seeming to be on a personal quest of innovation and ingenuity. Their home planet, Nagor, is the foremost industrial hub in the Concordium, essentially a planet-sized manufacturing complex built among the ruins of the Nagori civilisation. 

The Masians are among the most unthreatening races in Concordium space. They entirely lack natural weapons and have no psionic ability with which to defend themselves. These humanoids tend have a smaller stature than other hominids, with light nearly pasty skin and large round eyes that dominate their faces. Their limbs tend to be thin, almost spindly, which makes them physically weaker than other mammals. Their hands are very long with five multi-jointed digits. Their ancestors were not apex predators. They were, in fact, excessively hunted. This background has given them a natural humility and an entirely different outlook on life. While most Concordium races are predatory and competitive by nature, the Masians are co-operative and polite, finding it easy to seamlessly form problem-solving teams without losing their individuality. This is reflected in their diet. All Masians are vegetarian, their digestive tract being entirely unsuited to processing meat. 

This gentle nature and humility hides exceptional creative talent – the average Masian stands intellectually above the other races, many even making Charian professors look like fools (though they take no satisfaction in this). The Masians are organised by a meritocratic caste system that defines ones role in life, but allows those with proven ability to rise in status. They have virtually no interest in theoretical academic pursuits, preferring instead to bend their powerful minds to industry and innovation,. This tendency, reinforced by a culture strongly emphasising these pursuits helped the Masians become the most prolific artisans and inventors in the Concordium. 

<h2>Racial Characteristics</h2>

<h3>Statistics </h3>

[[File:MasianStatistics.png|none|Masian Racial Statistics]]

<h3>Racial Special Abilities</h3>

 - Intellectually Innovative (Intelligence)

 - Communal (Societal)

 - Significant Population Growth (Societal)

 - Curious (Intelligence)

I just don't get what's so special about these guys.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

My dear naive Inarian, Darshana knows you have much to learn about true worth. 

- Darshana

[[File:0_5_1_bust_0_2.png|250px|right|Masian female by James Goudie]]

<h3>Appearance</h3>

General Features
* Hair.
** Thinly haired to bald
** No facial hair.
** Ridged eyebrows.
** Eyebrows are small horns.
* Physiology
** Smaller stature with thin limbs.
** Long hands with five multi-jointed fingers on each.
** Light almost pasty skin.
** Large, widely spaced apart, highly reflective eyes.
** Usual height of around 4 ft.
* Body Art
** None. Masians like to keep as natural an appearance as possible in the hope that others will forget their origins.

Male Features
* Physique
** More gaunt.
** Slightly taller (anything from 4 to 4.5 ft).
* Hair
** Tending towards baldness.

Female Features
* Physique
** Slightly shorter (usually around 4ft).
** Slightly fuller-faced.
* Hair
** Fully hair that can resemble fur.
** Sometimes streaked with other colors.

Accoutrements
* Clothes
** Jumpsuits or coveralls. Appropriate wear for mechanical work.
** Cargo trousers or other items with many pockets.
** Belts, bags, sashes. Anything which can store tools and gadgets.
* Branding
** None.
* Armour
** Power armor and power suits.
** Exo-skeletons.
* Weapons
** Power and energy weapons.
** Light firearms.
** Explosives and demolition charges.

<h2>Religion</h2>

The caste system is dominant in Masian thinking. Some believe it a necessary evil required for the continue existence of the race, while others see it as a harsh reality of fate that has cast them in their particular lot. The rising sentiment, however, discredits the role of fate and instead seizes on the belief that they can improve their station in life through hard work and education.

Primary : Rationalism : 40% : The larger part of Masian society are rational, functional beings who see the caste system only as a necessary evil. There is an organisational structure which forces some to do the less inventive tasks required for the continued survival of the race as a whole. This tends to be the outlook of the higher castes, however!

Secondary : Fatalism : 25% : For those destined to be in a lower caste, they will accept their fate with a rugged determination to fulfil the duties expected of them. If their abilities match expectation, then it is just possible that fate has plans for them in another, higher caste. 

Secondary : Existentialism : 35% : Opposed to the fatalists in Masian society, there are large numbers of the lower and middle castes who believe that their future is mutable, and if not theirs, then certainly that of their children. Existentialists hold a lot of stock by education as the means to advancement They will push their offspring to extremes to ensure their place in a higher caste after the ritual testing.

p>There are loads of critics of the caste system who view it as a crude means to control a large and growing population.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

Darshana has to wonder at this, the majority of Masians who support the system cannot be ignored. Perhaps they function differently than others in the Concordium. The lower castes are not oppressed, they just do different jobs. Darshana believes we can learn much from their lack of ego. Darshana hopes a certain Inarian especially embraces this talent.

- Darshana

<h2>Starting Ships-- Scout and Light Carrier</h2>

(Designs by James Goudie)

[[File:20200227_social_media_masian_scout.png|Masian Scout]]

[[File:20200227_social_media_masian_lightCarrier.png|Masian Light Carrier]]

<h2>Racial History</h2>

To be added.

<h2>The Triticus Plague</h2>

Triticus Plague, otherwise referred to as E3, or The Scourge.

Some scientists have hypothesised that the plague lay dormant in most races but was activated through genetic engineering. The plague is a virus which was unresponsive to all known medicines, although anti-viral medication could slow down it's progression.

Infection can be spread through contact with bodily fluids, even post-death, causing an increased susceptibility to caregivers and those in the medical profession.

It was finally cured in the 26th Century YD (Years Degervian, the Concordium calendar).

<h3>Symptoms</h3>

Stage 1; Elimination (of personality)
Hair and memory loss, usually manifesting with depression.

Note: Hair and memory loss are often associated with planetary movement due to the change in atmosphere affecting blood movement to the brain and altered cell regeneration. Likewise, depression is frequently registered among new settlers due to the strains of frontier life compared to the comforts that they may be more used to on the core planets.

Stage 2; Euphoria
Powerful hallucinations with euphoric episodes and delusions of being in paradise.

Note: This stage can be difficult to diagnose as the symptoms hold much in common with being in a drugged state, particularly for a Pandeus overdose.

Stage 3; Eternity
Inducement of a coma state, in which bodily functions slowly shut down resulting in fatality. Deceased always left with a serene smile.

<h3>History of the Plague</h3>

The first recorded incident of Triticus plague was in the 21st Century. In the early stages of its life it was primarily problematic in a number of isolated colony planets which were quickly quarantined against biological hazards.

Initially, it spread slowly and quietly. Its symptoms were incorrectly diagnosed to other ailments or otherwise associated with space-travel and interplanetary settlement or drug use. Once it did manage to spread, however, it grew exponentially leading to it being declared an epidemic in the 23rd Century YD.

By this point it was tearing through the Concordium, wiping out entire populations at once. Then it spread through the Quantum Gates and through inter-planetary trade to infect entirely new systems. No place was spared its ravages and no race was immune to its touch. While the core planets were better equipped to impose quarantines, the frontier colonies were disproportionately affected.

All in all, the population of the Concordium was reduced by about 50%.

<h3>The War of Genetic Purity</h3>

This period of chaos led to a heightening of paranoia and distrust between races, and those in the Concordium government had to work hard to maintain order and unity. There were a number of minor clashes and misunderstandings, but the first true conflict to spark was the War of Psionic Privacy. Tuleonetians realised that Saraven Psykers had managed to hack into the Meld but Concordium retribution was swift. The Saraven seceded and joined the Urix Empire for protection.

The next blow discovered in the 24th Century YD, was that the Triticus Plague had its origins in Genetic Engineering. It was observed that the virus had lain dormant in the DNA of all races and that the meddling geneticists had activated it. Public backlash to this revelation was fierce, with widespread disorder and the burning of several research laboratories. However it did not turn violent until the use of Muton WMDs (weapons of mass destruction) were exposed. Concordium sanctioned scientists were found to have been launching these devices against neutral and under-developed planets in order to test the results of genetic research on live subjects.

Reaction to this was immediate and fierce, with large numbers of formally loyal subjects renouncing the Concordium and forming an informal "Purist" union. Their agenda was the complete and utter eradication of any form of genetic manipulation, including the destruction of any individual judged to have been modified or mutated in any unnatural way.

Of the Concordium races only the Ursians remained entirely loyal, fighting to maintain unity and order regardless of the evils committed by the central government. The Charians also mostly remained loyal as their cybernetic enhancements were seen by many as unnatural and vile. Therefore they had to fight for survival. The Gervians, Tuleonetians and Maratasen split almost evenly between the loyalists and purists. The Inarians, believing in the natural forces of nature, joined the Purists in force.

With the Concordium in tatters, the Urix Empire chose to strike and declared war which tipped the odds towards the Purists. This action threatened to destroy the Concordium entirely.

<h3>The Cure </h3>

In the 19th Century YD, Nagor was populated by an industrialised civilisation of humanoids known as the Nagori. They were watched eagerly by the Concordium who believed that they would be space faring soon.

At that time, the Masians were creatures of slightly above animalistic intelligence that gathered in colonies of roughly 100 individuals. Their nests were surprisingly advanced, often having wooden structure and low walls or fences to keep predators away from their young. Unfortunately, these were not enough to protect them from their most voracious predator, the Nagori, who hunted them for their highly prized luscious fur.

Their fortunes were reversed when the Triticus Plague struck the planet, which entirely wiped the Nagori out in the 21st Century YD. The Concordium lost interest in Nagor listing it as a dead planet. It went silent for four centuries before seeming to burst to life. Multiple high frequency signals were discovered emanating from Nagor and Concordium scouts dashed to investigate.

There they found the thriving Masian race, living among the ruins of the Nagori civilisation. Somehow they had survived the Triticus Plague and the only scar they bore was the loss of all fur and hair except a patch on the top of the head. They had also grown in stature during their exile and their intelligence had increased dramatically.

The most astonishing discovery, however, is that the cure to the Triticus Plague lay in their blood. At first Concordium raiders forcibly captured Masians and killed them in order to get at the cure. Each individual killed had enough anti-bodies to save thousands. Then the Concordium became desperate to hold the strategically vital planet which held the secret to their salvation. Threatened by the possible loss of the planet through collateral damage, the Purists and Loyalists agreed to a cease fire. In this treaty, it was written that the Masians could not be taken by force and that instead any blood given had to be voluntarily.

It is a testament to the good hearts of these small industrious creatures that many gave their blood willingly although it hurt them greatly and regeneration of the vital anti-bodies was slow. To help speed the eradication of the disease, a sizable number of Masians volunteered their bodies and lives to save others. Their sacrifice allowed scientists to properly study them, leading to the discovery that the Masians had a second liver producing the vital anti-bodies.

Armed with this knowledge, the synthetic cure Acwavit Serum soon followed.

This further study revealed something less palatable, however. It was found that the Masians had been themselves genetically altered by a Muton WMD attack. Although the exact purpose of this modification was unclear (enhanced intelligence seems most likely), a side effect was the genesis of the second liver and with it, the cure.

Faced by the fact that genetics could both kill and cure, exhausted by the war and humbled by the generosity and sacrifice of the Masians, the Loyalists and Purists returned to the negotiating table. As a result, the majority of the Purists rejoined the Concordium, although a large number decided to stay neutral and a large portion continue to wage what they saw as the crusade against genetics.

For their part in both the creation and dissemination of the cure and to reward their magnanimity, the Masians were given space faring technologies and invited to join the Concordium as a full member.

If the Purists had won the war, the mutants would never have been allowed to join.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

The Purists had virtually won the war, it truly was the sacrifice shown by the Masian people which earned them the right of membership.

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

Of course, as an Ursian, you would say that.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

My race and politics has nothing to do with it. I know because I was there. I fought in that war.

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

But that's... ancient history! Just how old are you Conleth?

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

<h2> The Union of Masian Republics </h2>

The Union of Masian Republics is the highly centralised government group that presides over all Masian worlds. At the centre of the whole system sits the Ober Versamen (Central Planning Assembly).

The Ober Versamen handles strategic distribution of all resources produced by the Masian Republics. They send their instructions and targets to the planetary Versamen (Assembly) who must then meet the requirements set for them. The planetary Versamen in turn hand targets to national or civic Versamen, and so on.

The number of serving Komisars are elected from the body directly below them, while the lowest factory Versamen are elected from any resident unemployed Komisar in the area. Interestingly, the Komisars themselves have absolutely no vote during Versamen elections. Instead this right falls to all other castes who are represented by that body. This means that each Masian voter has, by law, to visit the ballot box for their individual work group, civic, planetary and galactic elections. It is clear that although there is a caste of political specialists, the Masians function on a very democratically egalitarian basis with even the Grudners given a voice.

The most important group within the Ober Versamen is the Ascendency Council which creates the test taken every year by every 16 year old Masian. The test is ultimately responsible for the assigning of a caste to each and every Masian.

The caste system runs central to Masian governance, and exists in the same form in every Masian settlement. Central to the whole process is the coming of age ritual known as the Ascendency. This is an annual national event, held on every planet, and every Masian child must undergo the Ascendency in their 16th year of life. The Ascendency is essentially an intensive intelligence quotient examination that determines how bright, creative and sociable each candidate is and then assigns to each individual their caste for life.

This ensures that the Masian caste system is meritocratic and places people in the caste category most suited to their needs and output. Masian society is to a large extent socialist, where production is centralised and then distributed depending on caste. The expectation is that the higher castes perform at a far higher level and therefore require a larger share of personal resources to ensure their continued high levels of output.

The castes are as follows;

Kunstheld - Artificer Caste - The most brilliant of the Masian gadgeteers. Although they have virtually no political power, they are offered material rewards above and beyond what others receive, but are also expected to function at a much higher and more productive level than the rest of society.

Komisar - Commissar Caste - The politicos of Masian society. Although politics is considered a fairly low intelligence role, Komisars tend to have traits uncommon to a Masian like rhetoric and diplomacy. They are given a high caste level so that they can effectively organise others. In terms of reward, they are on par with the Ingeniers.

Ingenier - Engineer Caste - These are the creatives and inventors. They are mainly concerned with the creation of new products and the process required to get them manufactured. They are natural planners and visionaries.

Kessler - Middle Caste - The vast majority of Masians are Kesslers, due to their natural inclination to tinker. Predominantly the Kesslers are skilled artisans, craftsmen and factory workers.

Arbter - Service Caste - The caste tasked with all the other jobs required to keep society functioning ranging from logistics, mining to banking, law and medicine, etc.

Grudner - Farmer Caste - Anyone whose work is associated with nature.

Note: There is no untouchable caste in Masian society.

Often criticised as an outdated model, the caste system is defended by Masians as a fair division of labour. In the past, there was serious danger of more menial tasks not being fulfilled due to a lack of interest, leading to massive raw material shortages, logistics failures and famine. The Caste system ensures even unpopular tasks are accomplished.

New Masian colonies are created with a quota of caste members so as to promote a new functional society. Once established, however, all Ascendants must take the test and are assigned a caste based on the Union of Masian Republics norm.

Although there are similarities between the Valdus and Masian caste systems, the intrinsic difference lies in the fact that the Masians do not have any belief in reincarnation, and that the Masian system is based on the merit of the individual rather than on their birth.

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

<h2> Traveller's Log Entries </h2>

<h3>[[Rain Like Tears|Rain Like Tears]]</h3>(by James Landes)

"The world is raining like tears" thought Ran.

Sitting in the speeding tram watching the bustle of the city blur by his window, Ran whispered to himself, "I have failed them".

"Who am I?" thought Ran defiantly, a moment of anger rising from his chest. "I am Ran Chedayin of the Chedayin Ascendants. We are fifth family of the grand Ascendency. There was tradition to uphold, there were expectations."

Ran sighed. The sense of unmet expectations almost a physical weight on his shoulders as he watched the marvels of Masian engineering and architecture whisk by his moisture streaked window.

The tram slowed and came to a halt with a gentle lurch, unloading and loading passengers. Ran was barely aware of others in his section, his gaze settling on a tree. Confined to an elaborate decorated planter, the tree is withering as it strains unsuccessfully against the confines of the artificial barrier.

"I am that Tree" Ran thought to himself.

"I am a biologist, I make things grow. I do not build or fix THINGS, I work with LIFE!"

[[Rain Like Tears|Read More]]

[[File:final_20220722_B&W&color_deadMensPhilosophy.png|250px|right|<pre style="color: black">Captain Brekan and Officer Melvara on ship's bridge after the local sun's destructive solar flare (Dead Men's Philosophy, image by James Goudie)</pre>]]

<h3>[[Dead Men's Philosophy|Dead Men's Philosophy]]</h3>(by Davis Masterman)

The following is a transcription of the last captain’s log of the Masian cruiser, the CS SOLAR SPIRE. The data on the black box's electronic storage experienced severe corruption, so several parts of the audio recording are silent or incoherent. The ship’s severed bridge was recovered by some junkers in 2745 SDY, but the rest of the ship and her crew of over one thousand still remain lost.


(Begin Transcription)

Captain: Emergency. Emergency. This is Captain Brekam K’ara of the Masian CS SOLAR SPIRE. We have encountered severe solar flares while orbiting - [DATA CORRUPTED] - significant casualties and major damage to our vessel. Our long-range communications and engines appear offline. We require emergency evac- [DATA CORRUPTED].

(The message loops several times until a new voice appears)

Officer: Sir, she’s gone. I tried my best, but I couldn’t stop the bleeding...

[[Dead Men's Philosophy|Read More]]
 
[[File:final20220901bw_storyArt_happiPlace2_jgoudie.png|300px|left|<pre style="color: black">Bartender and owner of Happi's Place serves an oathless Maratasen and provides uncoventional insights (A Happi Place, image by James Goudie)</pre>]]
<h3>[[A Happi Place|A Happi Place]]</h3>(by Chet Delano)
“What now?” the Maratasen asked, his paws clutching his hanging face as he sat at the bar, waiting for nothing.

His ears perked as he heard ice clink against glass. “On the house.”

He looked up to see the bartending Masian, who held a slight smile as he returned to using his rag to wipe the counter.

The Maratasen hesitated but decided to take the drink. “Why not…” His claws clutched the glass...

“Not like there’s anywhere you gotta be.” The Masian said confidently, continuing with his duties.

The Maratasen stared at him curiously, his paw suspended before his face with the drink, his tribal tattoos exposed on his arm. The drink glowed with rolling shades of orange, contrasting wildly against his white fur. The color reminded him of home… of his people. Red specks swirled throughout the drink and they turned to embers in his mind. The background
chatter became cries for help as a burning called from the scar beside his eye. He winced and snarled, shaking the thoughts out.

He took a sip.

[[A Happi Place|Read More]]

Masian

2024-10-11T23:49:18Z

173.31.57.112:

[[File:20170615_masian_race_banner.png |600px|center|Masian Banner]]

<h2>Short Story Introduction</h2>

"It's been almost year, Komisar... We must have an Ascendency!"

Komisar Ramarata placed his pen down carefully on his desk and looked slowly up at who had interrupted him. Seeing that it was a Kunstheld, one of the highest caste, he clasped his hands together and sat up a little straighter.

"Druma-rajar, you honour me."

"You must forgive my bluntness, Komisar, but this is important. Some of the Kessler grow restless not knowing if their children will have their Ascendency day."

"I understand this, but we have heard nothing from the Ober Versamen. There can be no Ascendency until-"

"Until? Ramarata-razar, the gate has been inactive for a year now! It hurts me greatly to admit it, but even our best Ingenieren and Kunsthelden have not been able to repair it. Komisar, we must assume that we will receive no instruction from home. We are on our own."

[[File:Masian_bust_0_1.png|250px|right|Masian male by James Goudie]]

"This is most irregular Druma," Ramarata said rising from his seat. He winced at the Kunstheld's words. Although his companion was of a higher caste, such insulting language was most unusual. He walked around the desk to face the newcomer more directly.

"For my entire career I have relied, no, depended on, the guidance of the Ober Versamen..." he trailed off with a shrug.

"Blast it, Ramarata!" the Kunstheld exploded, clenching his fists angrily. "Use that mind of yours and come up with a solution. Show some initiative for a change. I know you politicos are capable of it from time to time!"

"Druma-"

"No. No more excuses. We have Grudners working in the factories! Grudners! That is how near to anarchy we have fallen. We need leadership now, more than ever."

Ramarata twisted as if he had been struck. Never before had he seen a Masian raise his voice to another, let alone lose his temper like that. Trouble on the streets must be even worse than he realised.

The Komisar turned away and rounded his desk once more going more slowly this time, tapping the top of the table with his long knuckles as he did. He stopped by his chair and looked up at Druma once more. His eyes narrowed and he nodded quietly to himself.

"I will appoint you to head this planets' Ascendency Commission."

"Ascendency commis-" Druma interrupted, clearly thinking it some bureaucratic stall.

"Without the guidance of the Ascendency Council, I have chosen to create our own Ascendency test."

"What? You can't do that!"

"You said yourself that I have to innovate, to go against the regulations set upon us," Ramarata said flatly. He waited a moment for a reply, but was met with only flabbergasted silence.

"And as our eldest Kunstheld, you are in the best possible position to oversee this effort."

"There might be hope for you yet, Komisar Ramarata-rajar," the Kunstheld said eventually with a growing grin, "I will do as you ask."

<h2>Racial Overview</h2>

Equally loved and reviled, the unassuming Masian race has played an integral role in Concordium history. They are unfortunate victims of chance, their path being altered dramatically and irrevocably. However their future is entirely in their own hands. Their ability now is unquestioned, as they number among the most prolific gadgeteers in the galaxy with each Masian seeming to be on a personal quest of innovation and ingenuity. Their home planet, Nagor, is the foremost industrial hub in the Concordium, essentially a planet-sized manufacturing complex built among the ruins of the Nagori civilisation. 

The Masians are among the most unthreatening races in Concordium space. They entirely lack natural weapons and have no psionic ability with which to defend themselves. These humanoids tend have a smaller stature than other hominids, with light nearly pasty skin and large round eyes that dominate their faces. Their limbs tend to be thin, almost spindly, which makes them physically weaker than other mammals. Their hands are very long with five multi-jointed digits. Their ancestors were not apex predators. They were, in fact, excessively hunted. This background has given them a natural humility and an entirely different outlook on life. While most Concordium races are predatory and competitive by nature, the Masians are co-operative and polite, finding it easy to seamlessly form problem-solving teams without losing their individuality. This is reflected in their diet. All Masians are vegetarian, their digestive tract being entirely unsuited to processing meat. 

This gentle nature and humility hides exceptional creative talent – the average Masian stands intellectually above the other races, many even making Charian professors look like fools (though they take no satisfaction in this). The Masians are organised by a meritocratic caste system that defines ones role in life, but allows those with proven ability to rise in status. They have virtually no interest in theoretical academic pursuits, preferring instead to bend their powerful minds to industry and innovation,. This tendency, reinforced by a culture strongly emphasising these pursuits helped the Masians become the most prolific artisans and inventors in the Concordium. 

<h2>Racial Characteristics</h2>

<h3>Statistics </h3>

[[File:MasianStatistics.png|none|Masian Racial Statistics]]

<h3>Racial Special Abilities</h3>

 - Intellectually Innovative (Intelligence)

 - Communal (Societal)

 - Significant Population Growth (Societal)

 - Curious (Intelligence)

I just don't get what's so special about these guys.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

My dear naive Inarian, Darshana knows you have much to learn about true worth. 

- Darshana

[[File:Masian-female-bust.png|250px|right|Masian female by James Goudie]]

<h3>Appearance</h3>

General Features
* Hair.
** Thinly haired to bald
** No facial hair.
** Ridged eyebrows.
** Eyebrows are small horns.
* Physiology
** Smaller stature with thin limbs.
** Long hands with five multi-jointed fingers on each.
** Light almost pasty skin.
** Large, widely spaced apart, highly reflective eyes.
** Usual height of around 4 ft.
* Body Art
** None. Masians like to keep as natural an appearance as possible in the hope that others will forget their origins.

Male Features
* Physique
** More gaunt.
** Slightly taller (anything from 4 to 4.5 ft).
* Hair
** Tending towards baldness.

Female Features
* Physique
** Slightly shorter (usually around 4ft).
** Slightly fuller-faced.
* Hair
** Fully hair that can resemble fur.
** Sometimes streaked with other colors.

Accoutrements
* Clothes
** Jumpsuits or coveralls. Appropriate wear for mechanical work.
** Cargo trousers or other items with many pockets.
** Belts, bags, sashes. Anything which can store tools and gadgets.
* Branding
** None.
* Armour
** Power armor and power suits.
** Exo-skeletons.
* Weapons
** Power and energy weapons.
** Light firearms.
** Explosives and demolition charges.

<h2>Religion</h2>

The caste system is dominant in Masian thinking. Some believe it a necessary evil required for the continue existence of the race, while others see it as a harsh reality of fate that has cast them in their particular lot. The rising sentiment, however, discredits the role of fate and instead seizes on the belief that they can improve their station in life through hard work and education.

Primary : Rationalism : 40% : The larger part of Masian society are rational, functional beings who see the caste system only as a necessary evil. There is an organisational structure which forces some to do the less inventive tasks required for the continued survival of the race as a whole. This tends to be the outlook of the higher castes, however!

Secondary : Fatalism : 25% : For those destined to be in a lower caste, they will accept their fate with a rugged determination to fulfil the duties expected of them. If their abilities match expectation, then it is just possible that fate has plans for them in another, higher caste. 

Secondary : Existentialism : 35% : Opposed to the fatalists in Masian society, there are large numbers of the lower and middle castes who believe that their future is mutable, and if not theirs, then certainly that of their children. Existentialists hold a lot of stock by education as the means to advancement They will push their offspring to extremes to ensure their place in a higher caste after the ritual testing.

p>There are loads of critics of the caste system who view it as a crude means to control a large and growing population.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

Darshana has to wonder at this, the majority of Masians who support the system cannot be ignored. Perhaps they function differently than others in the Concordium. The lower castes are not oppressed, they just do different jobs. Darshana believes we can learn much from their lack of ego. Darshana hopes a certain Inarian especially embraces this talent.

- Darshana

<h2>Starting Ships-- Scout and Light Carrier</h2>

(Designs by James Goudie)

[[File:20180405_masian_scout_silhouette_jgoudie.png|Masian Scout]]

[[File:20180405_masian_lightCarrier_silhouette_jgoudie.png|Masian Light Carrier]]

<h2>Racial History</h2>

To be added.

<h2>The Triticus Plague</h2>

Triticus Plague, otherwise referred to as E3, or The Scourge.

Some scientists have hypothesised that the plague lay dormant in most races but was activated through genetic engineering. The plague is a virus which was unresponsive to all known medicines, although anti-viral medication could slow down it's progression.

Infection can be spread through contact with bodily fluids, even post-death, causing an increased susceptibility to caregivers and those in the medical profession.

It was finally cured in the 26th Century YD (Years Degervian, the Concordium calendar).

<h3>Symptoms</h3>

Stage 1; Elimination (of personality)
Hair and memory loss, usually manifesting with depression.

Note: Hair and memory loss are often associated with planetary movement due to the change in atmosphere affecting blood movement to the brain and altered cell regeneration. Likewise, depression is frequently registered among new settlers due to the strains of frontier life compared to the comforts that they may be more used to on the core planets.

Stage 2; Euphoria
Powerful hallucinations with euphoric episodes and delusions of being in paradise.

Note: This stage can be difficult to diagnose as the symptoms hold much in common with being in a drugged state, particularly for a Pandeus overdose.

Stage 3; Eternity
Inducement of a coma state, in which bodily functions slowly shut down resulting in fatality. Deceased always left with a serene smile.

<h3>History of the Plague</h3>

The first recorded incident of Triticus plague was in the 21st Century. In the early stages of its life it was primarily problematic in a number of isolated colony planets which were quickly quarantined against biological hazards.

Initially, it spread slowly and quietly. Its symptoms were incorrectly diagnosed to other ailments or otherwise associated with space-travel and interplanetary settlement or drug use. Once it did manage to spread, however, it grew exponentially leading to it being declared an epidemic in the 23rd Century YD.

By this point it was tearing through the Concordium, wiping out entire populations at once. Then it spread through the Quantum Gates and through inter-planetary trade to infect entirely new systems. No place was spared its ravages and no race was immune to its touch. While the core planets were better equipped to impose quarantines, the frontier colonies were disproportionately affected.

All in all, the population of the Concordium was reduced by about 50%.

<h3>The War of Genetic Purity</h3>

This period of chaos led to a heightening of paranoia and distrust between races, and those in the Concordium government had to work hard to maintain order and unity. There were a number of minor clashes and misunderstandings, but the first true conflict to spark was the War of Psionic Privacy. Tuleonetians realised that Saraven Psykers had managed to hack into the Meld but Concordium retribution was swift. The Saraven seceded and joined the Urix Empire for protection.

The next blow discovered in the 24th Century YD, was that the Triticus Plague had its origins in Genetic Engineering. It was observed that the virus had lain dormant in the DNA of all races and that the meddling geneticists had activated it. Public backlash to this revelation was fierce, with widespread disorder and the burning of several research laboratories. However it did not turn violent until the use of Muton WMDs (weapons of mass destruction) were exposed. Concordium sanctioned scientists were found to have been launching these devices against neutral and under-developed planets in order to test the results of genetic research on live subjects.

Reaction to this was immediate and fierce, with large numbers of formally loyal subjects renouncing the Concordium and forming an informal "Purist" union. Their agenda was the complete and utter eradication of any form of genetic manipulation, including the destruction of any individual judged to have been modified or mutated in any unnatural way.

Of the Concordium races only the Ursians remained entirely loyal, fighting to maintain unity and order regardless of the evils committed by the central government. The Charians also mostly remained loyal as their cybernetic enhancements were seen by many as unnatural and vile. Therefore they had to fight for survival. The Gervians, Tuleonetians and Maratasen split almost evenly between the loyalists and purists. The Inarians, believing in the natural forces of nature, joined the Purists in force.

With the Concordium in tatters, the Urix Empire chose to strike and declared war which tipped the odds towards the Purists. This action threatened to destroy the Concordium entirely.

<h3>The Cure </h3>

In the 19th Century YD, Nagor was populated by an industrialised civilisation of humanoids known as the Nagori. They were watched eagerly by the Concordium who believed that they would be space faring soon.

At that time, the Masians were creatures of slightly above animalistic intelligence that gathered in colonies of roughly 100 individuals. Their nests were surprisingly advanced, often having wooden structure and low walls or fences to keep predators away from their young. Unfortunately, these were not enough to protect them from their most voracious predator, the Nagori, who hunted them for their highly prized luscious fur.

Their fortunes were reversed when the Triticus Plague struck the planet, which entirely wiped the Nagori out in the 21st Century YD. The Concordium lost interest in Nagor listing it as a dead planet. It went silent for four centuries before seeming to burst to life. Multiple high frequency signals were discovered emanating from Nagor and Concordium scouts dashed to investigate.

There they found the thriving Masian race, living among the ruins of the Nagori civilisation. Somehow they had survived the Triticus Plague and the only scar they bore was the loss of all fur and hair except a patch on the top of the head. They had also grown in stature during their exile and their intelligence had increased dramatically.

The most astonishing discovery, however, is that the cure to the Triticus Plague lay in their blood. At first Concordium raiders forcibly captured Masians and killed them in order to get at the cure. Each individual killed had enough anti-bodies to save thousands. Then the Concordium became desperate to hold the strategically vital planet which held the secret to their salvation. Threatened by the possible loss of the planet through collateral damage, the Purists and Loyalists agreed to a cease fire. In this treaty, it was written that the Masians could not be taken by force and that instead any blood given had to be voluntarily.

It is a testament to the good hearts of these small industrious creatures that many gave their blood willingly although it hurt them greatly and regeneration of the vital anti-bodies was slow. To help speed the eradication of the disease, a sizable number of Masians volunteered their bodies and lives to save others. Their sacrifice allowed scientists to properly study them, leading to the discovery that the Masians had a second liver producing the vital anti-bodies.

Armed with this knowledge, the synthetic cure Acwavit Serum soon followed.

This further study revealed something less palatable, however. It was found that the Masians had been themselves genetically altered by a Muton WMD attack. Although the exact purpose of this modification was unclear (enhanced intelligence seems most likely), a side effect was the genesis of the second liver and with it, the cure.

Faced by the fact that genetics could both kill and cure, exhausted by the war and humbled by the generosity and sacrifice of the Masians, the Loyalists and Purists returned to the negotiating table. As a result, the majority of the Purists rejoined the Concordium, although a large number decided to stay neutral and a large portion continue to wage what they saw as the crusade against genetics.

For their part in both the creation and dissemination of the cure and to reward their magnanimity, the Masians were given space faring technologies and invited to join the Concordium as a full member.

If the Purists had won the war, the mutants would never have been allowed to join.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

The Purists had virtually won the war, it truly was the sacrifice shown by the Masian people which earned them the right of membership.

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

Of course, as an Ursian, you would say that.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

My race and politics has nothing to do with it. I know because I was there. I fought in that war.

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

But that's... ancient history! Just how old are you Conleth?

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

<h2> The Union of Masian Republics </h2>

The Union of Masian Republics is the highly centralised government group that presides over all Masian worlds. At the centre of the whole system sits the Ober Versamen (Central Planning Assembly).

The Ober Versamen handles strategic distribution of all resources produced by the Masian Republics. They send their instructions and targets to the planetary Versamen (Assembly) who must then meet the requirements set for them. The planetary Versamen in turn hand targets to national or civic Versamen, and so on.

The number of serving Komisars are elected from the body directly below them, while the lowest factory Versamen are elected from any resident unemployed Komisar in the area. Interestingly, the Komisars themselves have absolutely no vote during Versamen elections. Instead this right falls to all other castes who are represented by that body. This means that each Masian voter has, by law, to visit the ballot box for their individual work group, civic, planetary and galactic elections. It is clear that although there is a caste of political specialists, the Masians function on a very democratically egalitarian basis with even the Grudners given a voice.

The most important group within the Ober Versamen is the Ascendency Council which creates the test taken every year by every 16 year old Masian. The test is ultimately responsible for the assigning of a caste to each and every Masian.

The caste system runs central to Masian governance, and exists in the same form in every Masian settlement. Central to the whole process is the coming of age ritual known as the Ascendency. This is an annual national event, held on every planet, and every Masian child must undergo the Ascendency in their 16th year of life. The Ascendency is essentially an intensive intelligence quotient examination that determines how bright, creative and sociable each candidate is and then assigns to each individual their caste for life.

This ensures that the Masian caste system is meritocratic and places people in the caste category most suited to their needs and output. Masian society is to a large extent socialist, where production is centralised and then distributed depending on caste. The expectation is that the higher castes perform at a far higher level and therefore require a larger share of personal resources to ensure their continued high levels of output.

The castes are as follows;

Kunstheld - Artificer Caste - The most brilliant of the Masian gadgeteers. Although they have virtually no political power, they are offered material rewards above and beyond what others receive, but are also expected to function at a much higher and more productive level than the rest of society.

Komisar - Commissar Caste - The politicos of Masian society. Although politics is considered a fairly low intelligence role, Komisars tend to have traits uncommon to a Masian like rhetoric and diplomacy. They are given a high caste level so that they can effectively organise others. In terms of reward, they are on par with the Ingeniers.

Ingenier - Engineer Caste - These are the creatives and inventors. They are mainly concerned with the creation of new products and the process required to get them manufactured. They are natural planners and visionaries.

Kessler - Middle Caste - The vast majority of Masians are Kesslers, due to their natural inclination to tinker. Predominantly the Kesslers are skilled artisans, craftsmen and factory workers.

Arbter - Service Caste - The caste tasked with all the other jobs required to keep society functioning ranging from logistics, mining to banking, law and medicine, etc.

Grudner - Farmer Caste - Anyone whose work is associated with nature.

Note: There is no untouchable caste in Masian society.

Often criticised as an outdated model, the caste system is defended by Masians as a fair division of labour. In the past, there was serious danger of more menial tasks not being fulfilled due to a lack of interest, leading to massive raw material shortages, logistics failures and famine. The Caste system ensures even unpopular tasks are accomplished.

New Masian colonies are created with a quota of caste members so as to promote a new functional society. Once established, however, all Ascendants must take the test and are assigned a caste based on the Union of Masian Republics norm.

Although there are similarities between the Valdus and Masian caste systems, the intrinsic difference lies in the fact that the Masians do not have any belief in reincarnation, and that the Masian system is based on the merit of the individual rather than on their birth.

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

<h2> Traveller's Log Entries </h2>

<h3>[[Rain Like Tears|Rain Like Tears]]</h3>(by James Landes)

"The world is raining like tears" thought Ran.

Sitting in the speeding tram watching the bustle of the city blur by his window, Ran whispered to himself, "I have failed them".

"Who am I?" thought Ran defiantly, a moment of anger rising from his chest. "I am Ran Chedayin of the Chedayin Ascendants. We are fifth family of the grand Ascendency. There was tradition to uphold, there were expectations."

Ran sighed. The sense of unmet expectations almost a physical weight on his shoulders as he watched the marvels of Masian engineering and architecture whisk by his moisture streaked window.

The tram slowed and came to a halt with a gentle lurch, unloading and loading passengers. Ran was barely aware of others in his section, his gaze settling on a tree. Confined to an elaborate decorated planter, the tree is withering as it strains unsuccessfully against the confines of the artificial barrier.

"I am that Tree" Ran thought to himself.

"I am a biologist, I make things grow. I do not build or fix THINGS, I work with LIFE!"

[[Rain Like Tears|Read More]]

[[File:Final_20220722_B&W&color_deadMensPhilosophy.png|250px|right|<pre style="color: black">Captain Brekan and Officer Melvara on ship's bridge after the local sun's destructive solar flare (Dead Men's Philosophy, image by James Goudie)</pre>]]

<h3>[[Dead Men's Philosophy|Dead Men's Philosophy]]</h3>(by Davis Masterman)

The following is a transcription of the last captain’s log of the Masian cruiser, the CS SOLAR SPIRE. The data on the black box's electronic storage experienced severe corruption, so several parts of the audio recording are silent or incoherent. The ship’s severed bridge was recovered by some junkers in 2745 SDY, but the rest of the ship and her crew of over one thousand still remain lost.


(Begin Transcription)

Captain: Emergency. Emergency. This is Captain Brekam K’ara of the Masian CS SOLAR SPIRE. We have encountered severe solar flares while orbiting - [DATA CORRUPTED] - significant casualties and major damage to our vessel. Our long-range communications and engines appear offline. We require emergency evac- [DATA CORRUPTED].

(The message loops several times until a new voice appears)

Officer: Sir, she’s gone. I tried my best, but I couldn’t stop the bleeding...

[[Dead Men's Philosophy|Read More]]
 
[[File:StoryArt happiPlace2.png|300px|left|<pre style="color: black">Bartender and owner of Happi's Place serves an oathless Maratasen and provides uncoventional insights (A Happi Place, image by James Goudie)</pre>]]
<h3>[[A Happi Place|A Happi Place]]</h3>(by Chet Delano)
“What now?” the Maratasen asked, his paws clutching his hanging face as he sat at the bar, waiting for nothing.

His ears perked as he heard ice clink against glass. “On the house.”

He looked up to see the bartending Masian, who held a slight smile as he returned to using his rag to wipe the counter.

The Maratasen hesitated but decided to take the drink. “Why not…” His claws clutched the glass...

“Not like there’s anywhere you gotta be.” The Masian said confidently, continuing with his duties.

The Maratasen stared at him curiously, his paw suspended before his face with the drink, his tribal tattoos exposed on his arm. The drink glowed with rolling shades of orange, contrasting wildly against his white fur. The color reminded him of home… of his people. Red specks swirled throughout the drink and they turned to embers in his mind. The background
chatter became cries for help as a burning called from the scar beside his eye. He winced and snarled, shaking the thoughts out.

He took a sip.

[[A Happi Place|Read More]]

Masian

2024-10-11T23:43:04Z

173.31.57.112: Created page with "Masian Banner <h2>Short Story Introduction</h2> "It's been almost year, Komisar... We must have an Ascendency!" Komisar Ramarata placed his pen down carefully on his desk and looked slowly up at who had interrupted him. Seeing that it was a Kunstheld, one of the highest caste, he clasped his hands together and sat up a little straighter. "Druma-rajar, you honour me." "You must forgive my bluntness, Komisa..."

[[File:20170615_masian_race_banner.png |600px|center|Masian Banner]]

 

<h2>Short Story Introduction</h2>

"It's been almost year, Komisar... We must have an Ascendency!"

Komisar Ramarata placed his pen down carefully on his desk and looked slowly up at who had interrupted him. Seeing that it was a Kunstheld, one of the highest caste, he clasped his hands together and sat up a little straighter.

"Druma-rajar, you honour me."

"You must forgive my bluntness, Komisar, but this is important. Some of the Kessler grow restless not knowing if their children will have their Ascendency day."

"I understand this, but we have heard nothing from the Ober Versamen. There can be no Ascendency until-"

"Until? Ramarata-razar, the gate has been inactive for a year now! It hurts me greatly to admit it, but even our best Ingenieren and Kunsthelden have not been able to repair it. Komisar, we must assume that we will receive no instruction from home. We are on our own."

[[File:Masian_bust_0_1.png|250px|right|Masian male by James Goudie]]

"This is most irregular Druma," Ramarata said rising from his seat. He winced at the Kunstheld's words. Although his companion was of a higher caste, such insulting language was most unusual. He walked around the desk to face the newcomer more directly.

"For my entire career I have relied, no, depended on, the guidance of the Ober Versamen..." he trailed off with a shrug.

"Blast it, Ramarata!" the Kunstheld exploded, clenching his fists angrily. "Use that mind of yours and come up with a solution. Show some initiative for a change. I know you politicos are capable of it from time to time!"

"Druma-"

"No. No more excuses. We have Grudners working in the factories! Grudners! That is how near to anarchy we have fallen. We need leadership now, more than ever."

Ramarata twisted as if he had been struck. Never before had he seen a Masian raise his voice to another, let alone lose his temper like that. Trouble on the streets must be even worse than he realised.

The Komisar turned away and rounded his desk once more going more slowly this time, tapping the top of the table with his long knuckles as he did. He stopped by his chair and looked up at Druma once more. His eyes narrowed and he nodded quietly to himself.

"I will appoint you to head this planets' Ascendency Commission."

"Ascendency commis-" Druma interrupted, clearly thinking it some bureaucratic stall.

"Without the guidance of the Ascendency Council, I have chosen to create our own Ascendency test."

"What? You can't do that!"

"You said yourself that I have to innovate, to go against the regulations set upon us," Ramarata said flatly. He waited a moment for a reply, but was met with only flabbergasted silence.

"And as our eldest Kunstheld, you are in the best possible position to oversee this effort."

"There might be hope for you yet, Komisar Ramarata-rajar," the Kunstheld said eventually with a growing grin, "I will do as you ask."

 

<h2>Racial Overview</h2>

Equally loved and reviled, the unassuming Masian race has played an integral role in Concordium history. They are unfortunate victims of chance, their path being altered dramatically and irrevocably. However their future is entirely in their own hands. Their ability now is unquestioned, as they number among the most prolific gadgeteers in the galaxy with each Masian seeming to be on a personal quest of innovation and ingenuity. Their home planet, Nagor, is the foremost industrial hub in the Concordium, essentially a planet-sized manufacturing complex built among the ruins of the Nagori civilisation. 

The Masians are among the most unthreatening races in Concordium space. They entirely lack natural weapons and have no psionic ability with which to defend themselves. These humanoids tend have a smaller stature than other hominids, with light nearly pasty skin and large round eyes that dominate their faces. Their limbs tend to be thin, almost spindly, which makes them physically weaker than other mammals. Their hands are very long with five multi-jointed digits. Their ancestors were not apex predators. They were, in fact, excessively hunted. This background has given them a natural humility and an entirely different outlook on life. While most Concordium races are predatory and competitive by nature, the Masians are co-operative and polite, finding it easy to seamlessly form problem-solving teams without losing their individuality. This is reflected in their diet. All Masians are vegetarian, their digestive tract being entirely unsuited to processing meat. 

This gentle nature and humility hides exceptional creative talent – the average Masian stands intellectually above the other races, many even making Charian professors look like fools (though they take no satisfaction in this). The Masians are organised by a meritocratic caste system that defines ones role in life, but allows those with proven ability to rise in status. They have virtually no interest in theoretical academic pursuits, preferring instead to bend their powerful minds to industry and innovation,. This tendency, reinforced by a culture strongly emphasising these pursuits helped the Masians become the most prolific artisans and inventors in the Concordium. 

 

<h2>Racial Characteristics</h2>

<h3>Statistics </h3>

[[File:MasianStatistics.png|none|Masian Racial Statistics]]

 

<h3>Racial Special Abilities</h3>

 - Intellectually Innovative (Intelligence)

 - Communal (Societal)

 - Significant Population Growth (Societal)

 - Curious (Intelligence)

 

I just don't get what's so special about these guys.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

 

My dear naive Inarian, Darshana knows you have much to learn about true worth. 

- Darshana

 
[[File:Masian-female-bust.png|250px|right|Masian female by James Goudie]]

<h3>Appearance</h3>

General Features
* Hair.
** Thinly haired to bald
** No facial hair.
** Ridged eyebrows.
** Eyebrows are small horns.
* Physiology
** Smaller stature with thin limbs.
** Long hands with five multi-jointed fingers on each.
** Light almost pasty skin.
** Large, widely spaced apart, highly reflective eyes.
** Usual height of around 4 ft.
* Body Art
** None. Masians like to keep as natural an appearance as possible in the hope that others will forget their origins.

 

Male Features
* Physique
** More gaunt.
** Slightly taller (anything from 4 to 4.5 ft).
* Hair
** Tending towards baldness.

 

Female Features
* Physique
** Slightly shorter (usually around 4ft).
** Slightly fuller-faced.
* Hair
** Fully hair that can resemble fur.
** Sometimes streaked with other colors.

 

Accoutrements
* Clothes
** Jumpsuits or coveralls. Appropriate wear for mechanical work.
** Cargo trousers or other items with many pockets.
** Belts, bags, sashes. Anything which can store tools and gadgets.
* Branding
** None.
* Armour
** Power armor and power suits.
** Exo-skeletons.
* Weapons
** Power and energy weapons.
** Light firearms.
** Explosives and demolition charges.

<h2>Religion</h2>

The caste system is dominant in Masian thinking. Some believe it a necessary evil required for the continue existence of the race, while others see it as a harsh reality of fate that has cast them in their particular lot. The rising sentiment, however, discredits the role of fate and instead seizes on the belief that they can improve their station in life through hard work and education.

Primary : Rationalism : 40% : The larger part of Masian society are rational, functional beings who see the caste system only as a necessary evil. There is an organisational structure which forces some to do the less inventive tasks required for the continued survival of the race as a whole. This tends to be the outlook of the higher castes, however!

Secondary : Fatalism : 25% : For those destined to be in a lower caste, they will accept their fate with a rugged determination to fulfil the duties expected of them. If their abilities match expectation, then it is just possible that fate has plans for them in another, higher caste. 

Secondary : Existentialism : 35% : Opposed to the fatalists in Masian society, there are large numbers of the lower and middle castes who believe that their future is mutable, and if not theirs, then certainly that of their children. Existentialists hold a lot of stock by education as the means to advancement They will push their offspring to extremes to ensure their place in a higher caste after the ritual testing.

 

There are loads of critics of the caste system who view it as a crude means to control a large and growing population.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

 

Darshana has to wonder at this, the majority of Masians who support the system cannot be ignored. Perhaps they function differently than others in the Concordium. The lower castes are not oppressed, they just do different jobs. Darshana believes we can learn much from their lack of ego. Darshana hopes a certain Inarian especially embraces this talent.

- Darshana

<h2>Starting Ships-- Scout and Light Carrier</h2>

(Designs by James Goudie)

[[File:20180405_masian_scout_silhouette_jgoudie.png|Masian Scout]]
[[File:20180405_masian_lightCarrier_silhouette_jgoudie.png|Masian Light Carrier]]

<h2>Racial History</h2>

To be added.

<h2>The Triticus Plague</h2>

Triticus Plague, otherwise referred to as E3, or The Scourge.

Some scientists have hypothesised that the plague lay dormant in most races but was activated through genetic engineering. The plague is a virus which was unresponsive to all known medicines, although anti-viral medication could slow down it's progression.

Infection can be spread through contact with bodily fluids, even post-death, causing an increased susceptibility to caregivers and those in the medical profession.

It was finally cured in the 26th Century YD (Years Degervian, the Concordium calendar).

<h3>Symptoms</h3>

Stage 1; Elimination (of personality)
Hair and memory loss, usually manifesting with depression.

Note: Hair and memory loss are often associated with planetary movement due to the change in atmosphere affecting blood movement to the brain and altered cell regeneration. Likewise, depression is frequently registered among new settlers due to the strains of frontier life compared to the comforts that they may be more used to on the core planets.

Stage 2; Euphoria
Powerful hallucinations with euphoric episodes and delusions of being in paradise.

Note: This stage can be difficult to diagnose as the symptoms hold much in common with being in a drugged state, particularly for a Pandeus overdose.

Stage 3; Eternity
Inducement of a coma state, in which bodily functions slowly shut down resulting in fatality. Deceased always left with a serene smile.

<h3>History of the Plague</h3>

The first recorded incident of Triticus plague was in the 21st Century. In the early stages of its life it was primarily problematic in a number of isolated colony planets which were quickly quarantined against biological hazards.

Initially, it spread slowly and quietly. Its symptoms were incorrectly diagnosed to other ailments or otherwise associated with space-travel and interplanetary settlement or drug use. Once it did manage to spread, however, it grew exponentially leading to it being declared an epidemic in the 23rd Century YD.

By this point it was tearing through the Concordium, wiping out entire populations at once. Then it spread through the Quantum Gates and through inter-planetary trade to infect entirely new systems. No place was spared its ravages and no race was immune to its touch. While the core planets were better equipped to impose quarantines, the frontier colonies were disproportionately affected.

All in all, the population of the Concordium was reduced by about 50%.

<h3>The War of Genetic Purity</h3>

This period of chaos led to a heightening of paranoia and distrust between races, and those in the Concordium government had to work hard to maintain order and unity. There were a number of minor clashes and misunderstandings, but the first true conflict to spark was the War of Psionic Privacy. Tuleonetians realised that Saraven Psykers had managed to hack into the Meld but Concordium retribution was swift. The Saraven seceded and joined the Urix Empire for protection.

The next blow discovered in the 24th Century YD, was that the Triticus Plague had its origins in Genetic Engineering. It was observed that the virus had lain dormant in the DNA of all races and that the meddling geneticists had activated it. Public backlash to this revelation was fierce, with widespread disorder and the burning of several research laboratories. However it did not turn violent until the use of Muton WMDs (weapons of mass destruction) were exposed. Concordium sanctioned scientists were found to have been launching these devices against neutral and under-developed planets in order to test the results of genetic research on live subjects.

Reaction to this was immediate and fierce, with large numbers of formally loyal subjects renouncing the Concordium and forming an informal "Purist" union. Their agenda was the complete and utter eradication of any form of genetic manipulation, including the destruction of any individual judged to have been modified or mutated in any unnatural way.

Of the Concordium races only the Ursians remained entirely loyal, fighting to maintain unity and order regardless of the evils committed by the central government. The Charians also mostly remained loyal as their cybernetic enhancements were seen by many as unnatural and vile. Therefore they had to fight for survival. The Gervians, Tuleonetians and Maratasen split almost evenly between the loyalists and purists. The Inarians, believing in the natural forces of nature, joined the Purists in force.

With the Concordium in tatters, the Urix Empire chose to strike and declared war which tipped the odds towards the Purists. This action threatened to destroy the Concordium entirely.

<h3>The Cure </h3>

In the 19th Century YD, Nagor was populated by an industrialised civilisation of humanoids known as the Nagori. They were watched eagerly by the Concordium who believed that they would be space faring soon.

At that time, the Masians were creatures of slightly above animalistic intelligence that gathered in colonies of roughly 100 individuals. Their nests were surprisingly advanced, often having wooden structure and low walls or fences to keep predators away from their young. Unfortunately, these were not enough to protect them from their most voracious predator, the Nagori, who hunted them for their highly prized luscious fur.

Their fortunes were reversed when the Triticus Plague struck the planet, which entirely wiped the Nagori out in the 21st Century YD. The Concordium lost interest in Nagor listing it as a dead planet. It went silent for four centuries before seeming to burst to life. Multiple high frequency signals were discovered emanating from Nagor and Concordium scouts dashed to investigate.

There they found the thriving Masian race, living among the ruins of the Nagori civilisation. Somehow they had survived the Triticus Plague and the only scar they bore was the loss of all fur and hair except a patch on the top of the head. They had also grown in stature during their exile and their intelligence had increased dramatically.

The most astonishing discovery, however, is that the cure to the Triticus Plague lay in their blood. At first Concordium raiders forcibly captured Masians and killed them in order to get at the cure. Each individual killed had enough anti-bodies to save thousands. Then the Concordium became desperate to hold the strategically vital planet which held the secret to their salvation. Threatened by the possible loss of the planet through collateral damage, the Purists and Loyalists agreed to a cease fire. In this treaty, it was written that the Masians could not be taken by force and that instead any blood given had to be voluntarily.

It is a testament to the good hearts of these small industrious creatures that many gave their blood willingly although it hurt them greatly and regeneration of the vital anti-bodies was slow. To help speed the eradication of the disease, a sizable number of Masians volunteered their bodies and lives to save others. Their sacrifice allowed scientists to properly study them, leading to the discovery that the Masians had a second liver producing the vital anti-bodies.

Armed with this knowledge, the synthetic cure Acwavit Serum soon followed.

This further study revealed something less palatable, however. It was found that the Masians had been themselves genetically altered by a Muton WMD attack. Although the exact purpose of this modification was unclear (enhanced intelligence seems most likely), a side effect was the genesis of the second liver and with it, the cure.

Faced by the fact that genetics could both kill and cure, exhausted by the war and humbled by the generosity and sacrifice of the Masians, the Loyalists and Purists returned to the negotiating table. As a result, the majority of the Purists rejoined the Concordium, although a large number decided to stay neutral and a large portion continue to wage what they saw as the crusade against genetics.

For their part in both the creation and dissemination of the cure and to reward their magnanimity, the Masians were given space faring technologies and invited to join the Concordium as a full member.

 

If the Purists had won the war, the mutants would never have been allowed to join.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

 

The Purists had virtually won the war, it truly was the sacrifice shown by the Masian people which earned them the right of membership.

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

 

Of course, as an Ursian, you would say that.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

 

My race and politics has nothing to do with it. I know because I was there. I fought in that war.

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

 

But that's... ancient history! Just how old are you Conleth?

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

 

<h2> The Union of Masian Republics </h2>

The Union of Masian Republics is the highly centralised government group that presides over all Masian worlds. At the centre of the whole system sits the Ober Versamen (Central Planning Assembly).

The Ober Versamen handles strategic distribution of all resources produced by the Masian Republics. They send their instructions and targets to the planetary Versamen (Assembly) who must then meet the requirements set for them. The planetary Versamen in turn hand targets to national or civic Versamen, and so on.

The number of serving Komisars are elected from the body directly below them, while the lowest factory Versamen are elected from any resident unemployed Komisar in the area. Interestingly, the Komisars themselves have absolutely no vote during Versamen elections. Instead this right falls to all other castes who are represented by that body. This means that each Masian voter has, by law, to visit the ballot box for their individual work group, civic, planetary and galactic elections. It is clear that although there is a caste of political specialists, the Masians function on a very democratically egalitarian basis with even the Grudners given a voice.

The most important group within the Ober Versamen is the Ascendency Council which creates the test taken every year by every 16 year old Masian. The test is ultimately responsible for the assigning of a caste to each and every Masian.

The caste system runs central to Masian governance, and exists in the same form in every Masian settlement. Central to the whole process is the coming of age ritual known as the Ascendency. This is an annual national event, held on every planet, and every Masian child must undergo the Ascendency in their 16th year of life. The Ascendency is essentially an intensive intelligence quotient examination that determines how bright, creative and sociable each candidate is and then assigns to each individual their caste for life.

This ensures that the Masian caste system is meritocratic and places people in the caste category most suited to their needs and output. Masian society is to a large extent socialist, where production is centralised and then distributed depending on caste. The expectation is that the higher castes perform at a far higher level and therefore require a larger share of personal resources to ensure their continued high levels of output.

The castes are as follows;

Kunstheld - Artificer Caste - The most brilliant of the Masian gadgeteers. Although they have virtually no political power, they are offered material rewards above and beyond what others receive, but are also expected to function at a much higher and more productive level than the rest of society.

Komisar - Commissar Caste - The politicos of Masian society. Although politics is considered a fairly low intelligence role, Komisars tend to have traits uncommon to a Masian like rhetoric and diplomacy. They are given a high caste level so that they can effectively organise others. In terms of reward, they are on par with the Ingeniers.

Ingenier - Engineer Caste - These are the creatives and inventors. They are mainly concerned with the creation of new products and the process required to get them manufactured. They are natural planners and visionaries.

Kessler - Middle Caste - The vast majority of Masians are Kesslers, due to their natural inclination to tinker. Predominantly the Kesslers are skilled artisans, craftsmen and factory workers.

Arbter - Service Caste - The caste tasked with all the other jobs required to keep society functioning ranging from logistics, mining to banking, law and medicine, etc.

Grudner - Farmer Caste - Anyone whose work is associated with nature.

Note: There is no untouchable caste in Masian society.

Often criticised as an outdated model, the caste system is defended by Masians as a fair division of labour. In the past, there was serious danger of more menial tasks not being fulfilled due to a lack of interest, leading to massive raw material shortages, logistics failures and famine. The Caste system ensures even unpopular tasks are accomplished.

New Masian colonies are created with a quota of caste members so as to promote a new functional society. Once established, however, all Ascendants must take the test and are assigned a caste based on the Union of Masian Republics norm.

 

Although there are similarities between the Valdus and Masian caste systems, the intrinsic difference lies in the fact that the Masians do not have any belief in reincarnation, and that the Masian system is based on the merit of the individual rather than on their birth.

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

<h2> Traveller's Log Entries </h2>

<h3>[[Rain Like Tears|Rain Like Tears]]</h3>(by James Landes)

"The world is raining like tears" thought Ran.

Sitting in the speeding tram watching the bustle of the city blur by his window, Ran whispered to himself, "I have failed them".

"Who am I?" thought Ran defiantly, a moment of anger rising from his chest. "I am Ran Chedayin of the Chedayin Ascendants. We are fifth family of the grand Ascendency. There was tradition to uphold, there were expectations."

Ran sighed. The sense of unmet expectations almost a physical weight on his shoulders as he watched the marvels of Masian engineering and architecture whisk by his moisture streaked window.

The tram slowed and came to a halt with a gentle lurch, unloading and loading passengers. Ran was barely aware of others in his section, his gaze settling on a tree. Confined to an elaborate decorated planter, the tree is withering as it strains unsuccessfully against the confines of the artificial barrier.

"I am that Tree" Ran thought to himself.

"I am a biologist, I make things grow. I do not build or fix THINGS, I work with LIFE!"

[[Rain Like Tears|Read More]]

[[File:Final_20220722_B&W&color_deadMensPhilosophy.png|250px|right|<pre style="color: black">Captain Brekan and Officer Melvara on ship's bridge after the local sun's destructive solar flare (Dead Men's Philosophy, image by James Goudie)</pre>]]

<h3>[[Dead Men's Philosophy|Dead Men's Philosophy]]</h3>(by Davis Masterman)

The following is a transcription of the last captain’s log of the Masian cruiser, the CS SOLAR SPIRE. The data on the black box's electronic storage experienced severe corruption, so several parts of the audio recording are silent or incoherent. The ship’s severed bridge was recovered by some junkers in 2745 SDY, but the rest of the ship and her crew of over one thousand still remain lost.

(Begin Transcription)

Captain: Emergency. Emergency. This is Captain Brekam K’ara of the Masian CS SOLAR SPIRE. We have encountered severe solar flares while orbiting - [DATA CORRUPTED] - significant casualties and major damage to our vessel. Our long-range communications and engines appear offline. We require emergency evac- [DATA CORRUPTED].

(The message loops several times until a new voice appears)

Officer: Sir, she’s gone. I tried my best, but I couldn’t stop the bleeding...

[[Dead Men's Philosophy|Read More]]
 
[[File:StoryArt happiPlace2.png|300px|left|<pre style="color: black">Bartender and owner of Happi's Place serves an oathless Maratasen and provides uncoventional insights (A Happi Place, image by James Goudie)</pre>]]
<h3>[[A Happi Place|A Happi Place]]</h3>(by Chet Delano)
“What now?” the Maratasen asked, his paws clutching his hanging face as he sat at the bar, waiting for nothing.

His ears perked as he heard ice clink against glass. “On the house.”

He looked up to see the bartending Masian, who held a slight smile as he returned to using his rag to wipe the counter.

The Maratasen hesitated but decided to take the drink. “Why not…” His claws clutched the glass...

“Not like there’s anywhere you gotta be.” The Masian said confidently, continuing with his duties.

The Maratasen stared at him curiously, his paw suspended before his face with the drink, his tribal tattoos exposed on his arm. The drink glowed with rolling shades of orange, contrasting wildly against his white fur. The color reminded him of home… of his people. Red specks swirled throughout the drink and they turned to embers in his mind. The background
chatter became cries for help as a burning called from the scar beside his eye. He winced and snarled, shaking the thoughts out.

He took a sip.

[[A Happi Place|Read More]]

Fall From Grace

2024-10-11T23:38:34Z

173.31.57.112: Created page with "<pre style="color: black">Xalen with grandson Doros (Fall From Grace, image by James Goudie)</pre> ''Charian Colony Aleena III'' "So beautiful, so serene," Xalen muttered as she watched the sun rising over the horizon. From the balcony where she stood everything seemed so simple. So peaceful. So '''godly'''. For a few brief moments the old Charian scientist allowed herself to close her eyes and took a deep breath. Slowly..."

[[File:Fall From Grace goudieJ.png|250px|right|<pre style="color: black">Xalen with grandson Doros (Fall From Grace, image by James Goudie)</pre>]]

''Charian Colony Aleena III''

"So beautiful, so serene," Xalen muttered as she watched the sun rising over the horizon. From the balcony where she stood everything seemed so simple. So peaceful. So '''godly'''. For a few brief moments the old Charian scientist allowed herself to close her eyes and took a deep breath. Slowly her hand went down to the pocket of her clothes. The moment her weary fingers made contact with the small piece inside her pocket an almost childish smile graced her face. She withdrew it, and her smile widened; it meant the world to her. The green glow slowly pulsated, its low hum adding to her sense of serenity. Many cycles had come and gone since she and her team found it, but even now she knew she was holding a piece of eternity in her hands. A piece of history. A piece of greatness.

It made her think of a time before the plague. Before the blue liquid in small vial in her left pocket. Before Pandeus. Before the Fall From Grace as the Charians called it. Xalen knew that the outside world now saw the Charians as vagrants or worse. Drug addicts who were just waiting for their next high, everything else be damned. She frowned, the reality could not be further away from the truth. There was NO OTHER WAY except this. Opening her eyes at the sound of steps behind her back, Xalen glanced over her shoulder.

"Grandmother," Doros, her grandson said with a bright smile adorning his face, not yet ravaged by dependence on Pandeus. "My progenitor has been looking for you," The boy said walking next to Xalen, “Are you well?"

"Yes, my boy," Xalen answered. Seeing his concern, she smiled. "And I heard your Mother's voice echo through the house. But I had to see it." She gestured towards the sunrise. Her eye caught the shard and distracted, she focused on it, running her thumb over its smooth surface.

"Beautiful, is it not?"

Doros merely nodded his head. He walked closer to the edge of the balcony, hands now firmly on the rail. Tilting his head to the side he noticed the true object of her attention, the shard in her hand. He'd seen with her it many times, but he never once inquired about it. However, his curiosity was now getting the best of him.

Xalen's smile deepened as she noticed how Doros was looking at the shard. "I know you've been curious about this device for some time, so go ahead and ask. " she chuckled at his reaction. The boy could not help himself; she knew it.

"I did not want to intrude," Doros replied. "It is obvious that the artefact is of great importance to you."

"Yes," Xalen nodded her head as she picked the boy up and sat him on the railing. "It reminds me of a time when I was a bit older than you are now. Strong body, sharp mind. Reckless attitude," She smiled placing the shard next to the boy. "All of that brought me to it," She tapped the shard with her fingernail, memories still as fresh in her mind as the day when they first set out on the expedition.

"Well...what is its function?"

Xalen hesitated before replying. "Like me it is now a relic," she then sighed and shook her head "But it is also so much more. It may seem like nothing but a simple shard, but it was once part of a search that took your grandmother far and wide in search for answers."

"What answers?" The boy asked.

Xalen remained silent. She glanced towards the sunrise again, letting a heavy sigh. "A simple why," was all she said. It was at that moment that she decided to tell her Grandchild the story behind this shard that meant the world to her. A small shard that told a story, perhaps a thousand years in the making.

Perhaps it was a folk story, a myth. Perhaps nothing but a fairytale from some long-lost civilization. Yet, even fables are rooted in history. Whatever the reality behind it, it meant the world to Xalen. She passed the shard over to her grandson. He grabbed it with both hands, his eyes wide as he stared at it.

As he did so, she opened up her hand, palm facing the sky and a gentle yellow light rose from it, coalescing into the head and shoulders of a male Charian, his hair wispy with age, wrinkles creasing on his forehead.

Noticing the movement, Doros looked at the image as he began to speak. His words were careful and measured as speaker remembering a tale from long ago.

''Millennia ago...''

''Scientist. Father. Brother. Patriot.''

''Traitor...''

''Rebel. With or without a cause, no one really cared now.''

''It had been many years since they left the Homeworld’s luscious forests, sparkling water, the gigantic mountain ranges. These were now but a memory, almost if they never existed. For many cycles, Father pondered what happened. And why?''

"Father?" Doros queried, turning to Xalen. The figure stopped speaking, his last word having barely been spoken.

"I don't believe anyone knew his name; in the stories he is simply known as Father. Xalen gave a small nod to her hand, and the figure continued the tale.

''Reasons were whimsical, at best. Great spirits always encountered opposition from mediocre minds. The High Chancellery. This thought brought nothing but rage inside him. He clenched his teeth, balling his palms into a fist as his eyes gazed through the window and out into the great darkness of the universe itself.''

''So complex. Yet....so simple in his mind. So nuanced, so.... inviting. The old scientist let out a heavy sigh, as memories rushed into his mind. The Homeworld. The friends that abandoned him. The 'treason' of the High Chancellery. And why?''

''"Because they did not understand! And they NEVER WILL!"''

''He knew his kind were the best of the best. The pinnacle of evolution. Perfection.''

So it was their sacred duty to guard the other.... less fortunate species. But the High Chancellery always opposed that, citing ancient rules that made no sense. It simply had to be done. If for nothing, but for their own very existence.

''"Our species, regardless whether we accepted it or not, are slowly but surely dying," He remembered one of the speeches he made to the Science Bureau. "If we are to preserve our legacy, we must act before it is too late. Because if we do not, then I am afraid that nothing but dust shall remain of us. And with time, even that dust shall be no more...."''

''But they didn't listen. None of them did. Instead, he and his followers were simply driven away. Far away from their society, from the Homeworld. Their names, all but forgotten, if it weren’t for the shard that told their tale. With a heavy sigh he looked towards his wrinkled arm. Time was catching up with one of the greatest minds to ever live. The trademark boyish charm that he always radiated was no more. His dark blue eyes were now almost pale.... empty. His skin, as white as the snow that graced the Homeworld mountains. What was once perhaps only a mere distraction in his mind, was now the ultimate driving force behind his actions. Behind all of their actions.''

''Death.''

''He could feel it coming. Slowly but surely, he could feel the reaper making its way to collect. You could not outrun it; you could not bargain or reason with it. You could not.... cheat.''

''Or could you?''

''A small smirk all of a sudden graced his face. The discovery his team made was a welcomed one.''

''Two cycles ago the Box was found. Some thought it was by mere coincidence, but Father, Father knew better. It was fate. It was his perseverance and belief that guided him to the discovery of the ruins, and within them...the answer to the equation. The final piece of the puzzle that he needed. To show them. To make them realize just how wrong they were!''

''And he was about to open it...''

''Slowly, he spun around on his heels walking towards the doors that led out of the Observatory Room. His boots clanked against the plates of the old, decrepit science vessel, his home for many cycles now. The scientist began his walk towards destiny. He made his way through the dimly lit hall and towards the elevator shaft. There was an aura of silence, mixing with memories present here, and inside the ship itself.''

''Joy. Excitement. Sadness. Tragedy. Death.''

''The walls of the ship spoke a thousand tales. Some more happy than others. He bore witness here to the birth of perhaps his greatest creation ever. His son.''

''"Father," the young man bowed in front of his father. "We are ready,” he said, chin held high as he looked towards his father, determination in his eyes.''

''Father smiled. Looking around the room he gave everyonel a small smile and a nod. "My friends," he began. "I am honored to be with all of you today. For many cycles we wandered the galaxy. Enduring. He slowly began walking towards the center of the room where, on a small pedestal, a small, ornate box stood. "Despite all odds, we persevered. And today...." Head held up high he gestured towards the box. "We embrace immortality."''

''A small, but audible applause echoed through the room as he stood in front of the box. It was breathtaking that this box contained everything he sought all these years. It looked so.... innocent. Yet the power that it contained was enormous. Slowly he placed his hands on both sides of the cold steel.''

''"At last...," Father whispered, then glanced towards one of the scientists nearby, giving the woman a nod.''

''Everyone held their breaths. This was the first time that he was going to go through the entire process. There was no more time for simulations and calculations. The enemy was near. It had to be done. And it was to be done. And the result would be...''

''"Glorious," he muttered as a small beam encircled the box. He felt the warmth of it rising. Slowly he brought his hands up, then cracked it open. A slow, audible hum filled the room. Then came the red light, as bright as the Homeworld sun. It was as if he was staring into perfection itself. Time stopped. Eternity awaited...''

''He was tingling, feeling his entire body shake with excitement. This was it, the end result of many cycles of endurance and hard work. This was the answer to EVERYTHING! This WAS EVERYTHING!''

''But then....''

''A single voice spoke. Soothing. Endearing. Methodical...''

''Insidious...''

''He tried to close the box, to stop the voice. To make it go away. But he couldn't. It was too late. He felt his body spasm. His mind was filled with millions, perhaps billions of thoughts. A cacophony of sounds streamed through him. But there was one prevalent thought that he was able to utter...''

''"What have I done?"''

"So, what did he do?" Doros asked as the figure fell silent. He had been carefully listening, absorbing every detail of it. The story of Shard. Once part of an alien device Xalen and the expedition found in ruins of a deserted planet, the shard he held in his hand was all that remained. Xalen took the object back off him, dropping it in her chest pocket.

"No one knows," Xalen answered in reply. "Some claim that Father looked into the abyss and blinked when the abyss looked back. Others say that he found the answers to everything in the universe....and beyond." She looked into the distance, frowning as she patted her pocket and the hard surface of the shard. "Then there are those who claim that it was he who began our fall from grace...." Slowly, the elderly Charian turned towards her grandchild. "But nothing was proven. For all we know this little shard was perhaps an entertainment device used by some species."

"Well if it was that.... how come it means so much to you?" Doros asked. "And the others." There was no doubt in Xalen’s mind that the boy was inquisitive and that he perhaps already knew the answer.

She held her chin high up, facing the sun that was high on the horizon now. For a few brief moments she was young and full of vigor again, as if she was absorbing the sunlight, feeling rejuvenated. But....the moment came and went. Xalen knew she was old and that her time was coming. No shard would help. All she and the others had was a story to pass on to the next generation. Hopefully one day....one day someone would figure it all out. If it was true or not. Someone would find the ultimate answer. With a tired smile she looked towards the boy, patting him on the head.

"Destiny, my boy. Destiny...."

By Bojan Sekulic

Charian

2024-10-11T23:36:46Z

173.31.57.112:

[[File:20170615_charian_race_banner.png|600px|center|Charian Banner]]

<h2>Short Story Introduction</h2>

“But I don’t want it, it’ll hurt!”

“Nonsense!” the Charian in the long lab coat replied, offering the child a small red tablet. 

“We have developed a neurological blocker which, when ingested, is capable of converting pain signals into taste. Therefore, when we prescribe this to you, you will instead taste Xirconberries. The Pandeus modulator procedure will be entirely painless. Do you like Xirconberries?”

“See, it is perfectly harmless. Your father and I have both undergone this procedure and it was absolutely fine,” the boy’s mother interjected seeing the uncertain frown on her daughter.

[[File:0_4_1_bust_0_1.png|250px|right|Charian male by James Goudie]]

“Whoa, who’s that?” the girl suddenly exclaimed jumping down from the bed and pointing out of the hospital wing’s window at the block opposite. There, with his back to the hospital, was a bronzed man with no shirt on. His skin looked alien and unfamiliar compared to the usual Charian hues. Down his spine ran black spots, which came to a point just above his trousers. 

“I must admit that I am unsure of his designation,” the surgeon began, stepping over to join her by the window. 

“I do believe that his species are commonly known as Gervians,” the father added, squinting. 

Before anyone could answer, the man they were watching raised his arms and displayed a series of intricate and complex tattoos which stretched from his shoulder to wrist. As they watched, the tattoos glowed from black to a deep red, the colour sweeping down towards his hands.

“What is...” someone said, but the question hung. The glow faded from the man’s arms and he brought them up towards his face, palms up to be inspected but hidden from the viewers. He began to shake his head and turned to the Charian standing beside him who tapped on the datapad he held.

A few moments later, the Gervian raised his arms once again and the deep red colour once more rushed along his tattoos from his shoulders towards his wrists. This time the movement was slower, more measured. Before it could reach the hand, the Charian turned suddenly towards the window and noticed his gawping audience, causing the girl to gasp. His eye was an electronic terror, a camera lens which spun and focused on the watchers. He stabbed wildly at his datapad and the blinds covering the window snapped shut hiding the inhabitants.

A second later there was a flash of light which could be seen even through the covering.

“I want a robot eye!” the girl shouted, bounding back towards the bed and joyfully leaping in it.

<h2>Racial Overview</h2>

The Charians are a race of fallen gods. Although the loss of their power happened centuries ago and many generations have since passed, they still collectively remember what they once were and each is fascinated with seizing such potential again. They are not an innately evil race, but such obsession drives them down various paths to restore their lost power, and some venture down darker paths than others. Conversely they are also capable of great benevolence. Even those who are considered to have truly fallen can redeem themselves through unexpected kindness and generosity.

As a people, they are very tall with a lanky, bony physiology. They tend to have a medium or light complexion with their skin taking on an unhealthy pallor. Their faces tend to be quite long square structure, while their cheek bones are high and well defined. Their eyes slant upward and their noses do not protrude with their nostrils being virtually arched under the eye. 

Mentally the Charians are gifted with a towering intellect which is well able to internally process vast amounts of data. Their memory tends towards the eidetic or photographic. These traits grant them with a great understanding and interest in any academic pursuit, but this most often manifests as a love of science.

The vast majority of Charians have a cybernetic implant of some kind, either to further improve their already tremendous mental agility or to empower themselves in a more physical way. This is achieved by an automatic injection of hormones or other chemicals, replacing limbs with more efficient prosthetics or even granting themselves regenerative powers. However, this mechanical advantage does come with a cost, their bodies naturally reject these implants unless suppressed with a highly addictive drug known as Pandeus. 

How can they do this to themselves?

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

Do not be so quick to judge. I wonder how far you would go if you were to lose your ability to manipulate senses.

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

<h2>Racial Characteristics</h2>

<h3>Statistics </h3>

[[File:CharianStatistics.png|none|Charian Racial Statistics]]

<h3>Racial Special Abilities</h3>

 - Brain Processor (Cybernetic)

 - Inquisitive (Intelligence)

How can we be sure they all ask for this?

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

That sounds oddly familar... 

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

<h3>Appearance</h3>

General Features
[[File:0_4_1_bust_0_2.png|250px|right|Charian female by James Goudie]]
* Hair
** Varying levels of baldness are common.
** Lumenescent colours.
* Physiology
** Humanoid
*** Tall, lanky and boney.
*** Charians do not have protruding noses and their nostrils appear more like over-developed tear ducts which shape around the eye.
*** Eyes are upturned, giving them a permanent sad-looking face.
*** Prominent necks.
*** Unhealthy palour to the skin.
* Body Art
** Digital tattoos and technological piercings are common.

Male Features
* Physique
** Prominent forehead.
** Blockier face.
** Broader shoulders.

Female Features
* Physique
** Longer eyelashes.
** Narrower face / body.
** Higher cheekbones.

Accoutrements
* Clothes
** Cybernetics are highly prized.
*** Also used for aesthetic purposes and to show wealth or status.
*** Physical feature enhancements.
*** Mental ability enhancements.
** Sterile or clinical clothing.
* Weapons and Armour
** No real use for either, although some implants may be weaponised.

<h2>Religion</h2>

Divinity is the boon and curse of the Charians. They once knew its intoxicating touch and they crave it still. Now they find themselves trying to re-create that sanctity through cybernetics. Unfortunately their bodies reject the implants so they have begun to take Pandeus, an addictive substance which neutralises the rejection but leaves them sickly. They are essentially killing themselves while trying to recover their innate power.

Primary : Deism : 60% : Although their power is gone, most Charians seek to restore their lost divinity by any means necessary.

Secondary : Rationalism : 25% : It is not mysticism which caused this sense of powerlessness. In fact, they do not feel powerless at all. Science has led the race to great advances and who knows what the future holds?

Secondary : Atheism : 15% : Divinity is a cruel mistress and any chance of restoring it is hopeless. They are as pessimistic as they come and even though their search for divinity has ended, the addiction keeps them hooked on cybernetics.

Secondary : Living Gods : Minor : Divinity was never lost, rather the truth has been lost in time. Only some Charians were graced with the innate divinity, and none have ascended for centuries. The potential to do so however, remains. These believers tend to have few or no implants and are “pure”. As such, they are despised by the rest of Charian society as freaks and unnatural.

<h2>Starting Ships-- Scout and Light Carrier</h2>
(Designs by James Goudie)

[[File:20200227_social_media_charian_scout.png|Charian Scout]]

[[File:20200227_social_media_charian_lightCarrier.png|Charian Light Carrier]]

<h2>Racial History</h2>

To be added.

<h2>Faster, higher, stronger. The story of Pandeus.</h2>

Pandeus, 
bringing divinity to the people,
so that all may be gods again.

My name is Chesham and I’m an addict.

Admitting that revelation to those not of my usual group of close associates, that is to say, to strangers, never gets any easier. Now, what if I told you that this state of affairs is not unique to my own circumstances, but rather that my entire genus is thus blemished? 

No doubt you would proclaim us to be vagrants, mendicants or vagabonds, the very detritus of society. We are often condemned as a people, cast aside by the rest of the Concordium and forced to rot in abject poverty and disgrace.

Most would simply condemn us to that fate, but a rare group would rather ask themselves just what has befallen this people? What collective catastrophe could possibly have occurred to doom an entire race to an existence of dependency upon a toxic substance?

Once, we were gods. No, don’t roll your eyes in disbelief, this is a simple truth. We live in a universe where the Gervian people are able to conjure fire and the Saraven read minds. Who is to say that there is not a spark of the divine in us all? Even now we are blessed with an intelligence quotient double that of our confederates. The Tuleonetians can connect their psyche to others of their race. We, on the other hand, are able to innately calculate and understand. 

The sheer processing power of our mind is incredible. We teach quantum theory to our young in primary school, while the adults of our intellectual rivals struggle with its concepts in their highest institutes of education. 

Now imagine if that intelligence was simply an aspect of our biological makeup. Faster, higher, stronger – these were facts of life for us. Those simple sounding traits to which all aspire were once innate abilities of my people. We were not just top of the food chain, we were an entire order of magnitude beyond it. 

Imagine retired athletes running a race and losing. They know that once, in their youth, they would have won the contest simply and efficiently with the barest hint of exertion. They can keenly remember the sensation of victory, the heady power of superiority. Challenge was simply an obstacle to be stepped over.

Think of that athlete now, watching as others basked in the glory they know was once their own. A past they yearn for, but can never regain. Their own body which once bested all competition has become the vehicle of their downfall. 

The Charian race is a species in retirement, our intellect may remain a thing of wonder, but our corporeal existence is an exemplification of weakness and frailty. Consider the frustration, the resentment and the anger we felt before you judge our present state. 

In our torment, we turned to science. For a while, it looked like our minds had unlocked the answers to the problems we faced. It started with treatment for injuries, prosthetic limbs for amputees. Over time we began computerising these artificial crutches, instilling in them the ability to overcome the loss of what was natural. Eventually, we harnessed this technology to not just replace, but to enhance. 

Healthy subjects would mutilate their own arms and legs in order to receive the cybernetic implants. Soon entirely untrained runners were winning the races and new records were set daily for speed, height and strength. The power of our intellect was such that this process took years rather than decades. Within such a short time, we were unable to properly understand what we had unleashed. Once again we went faster, higher, stronger and the population rushed to embrace these new developments with euphoric impatience.

The plague was inevitable. The introduction of foreign entities to our bodies was a recipe for disaster and soon the natural began to reject the mechanical. The death toll from these implants rose into the billions, but still we continued to inflict these devices on ourselves. We were content that a year or two of regained greatness was worth the cost of an early grave. 

It was not. Our cities emptied and we were on the verge of extinction when the Concordium found us. The Emperor Apovlitos, may his flame burn forever bright, devoted his entire scientific budget to helping us find a cure for this self inflicted ailment. It did not take long. The answer was to be found on our own planet, a fairly common bluish stone we had found no use for, one we called Pandorite. 

This, when refined in Concordium labs, became a medicine familiar throughout known space; Pandeus. When taken, it placates our natural response and allows for proper integration of cybernetic technologies into our bodies. 

Once Pandeus came into widespread use, the death rate plummeted. While our longevity never recovered to previous levels, we have been able to rediscover some of the lost spark of divinity within us all. We, as a race, continue to aspire to go faster, higher and stronger.

Has this come with its own price? Naturally. Life is too harsh a mistress to allow such power to come freely. There must be a cost, a sacrifice. Our hair begins to fall out, and what is left takes on luminous colours as our bodies seek an outlet for the toxins. Our skin takes on an unhealthy pallor and our eyes sink into our faces. 

Of course, the worst effect is the one with which I opened this story with. Pandeus is highly addictive and once a dose is prescribed recipients must plan to take it for the rest of their lives. The base consequence of this is negligible, for without it our bodies would once again reject the implants we put into ourselves and death would soon follow. 

Unfortunately Pandeus is of such an addictive nature that one craves more and more of the drug, far more than is required for the maintenance of the cybernetics. Most Charian planets and colonies have procedures in place to cope with the base necessity for survival. It is the craving, however, which causes the true problems. The drug itself is not cheap and it is often difficult to acquire additional doses legally. Black markets spring up to meet the demand and with this comes all the accompanying criminality. 

So, before you judge the next Charian you see on the street, remember this story. Remember who the Charians once were and who they dream to be again. Then ask yourself, wouldn’t you do the same?

Pandeus;
Pan-deus [pan dee-uh s]

Noun; 
All-gods: Charian drug enabling cybernetic implants.

Abbreviation; 
Pan, Dust, D.

 Darshana wonders when do they stop being a Charian, and become something else? 

- Darshana

<h2>Democratic Republic of Valearia</h2>

The majority of Charians live under direct Gervian rule, and despite the Ursians best efforts to grant them a greater degree of independence, seem to be quite satisfied with this arrangement. This is a legacy of the union between Gervian and Charian governments when the Concordium was first founded. Since the First War of Oppression and the Ursian intervention, the Charians have once again been urged to develop their own central authority although the actual success of this has been questionable.

Charians are, on the whole extremely individualistic, they prefer, instead, to be left to their own devices and to be allowed to pursue their own schemes without interference. As such, they are quite willing to allow those with a greater interest in politics and governance to take the lead, even if those individuals are not a Charian. 

The result is a system of government which is staffed predominantly by Gervian bureaucrats with very limited actual power. Although they do maintain a monopoly on violence (the police and army are state maintained), the rest is privatised. As such, many companies choose to incorporate under Charian law, being well able to thrive in the environment of virtually zero regulation. Some of the largest corporations in Concordium space are those that deal in Cybernetic technologies.

The only place in which Charians themselves are really invested is the very powerful Administration Supervising the Handling of Enhancement Strategy (ASHES). This pseudo-governmental body is responsible, not only for the regulation and development of new cybernetics, but also functions as the sole legitimate supplier and distributor of Pandeus.

To its supporters, the Democratic Republic of Valearia is the very embodiment of laissez faire government, while its detractors argue that it is simply the legitimate front for a Gervian puppet state.

<h2> Traveller's Log Entries </h2>

<h3>[[Unlikely Partnership|Unlikely Partnership]]</h3>by Gareth Kay

“Why would you help me?” Aelius growled, leaning forward and holding his lighter protectively before him, his thumb twitching on the ignition.

“Gratitude?” the Charian replied with a low chuckle. He remained hidden in the shadows of the room, sitting at a desk the lamp aimed at their visitor. Before him was an empty seat, behind which the Gervian stood guardedly.

“How can I trust that? I don’t even know you!” came the reply, a note of stress in the voice.

“Oh but you do...” the Charian leant forward then, bringing his face into the light.

[[Unlikely Partnership|Read More]]

[[File:Fall From Grace goudieJ.png|250px|left|<pre style="color: black">Xalen with grandson Doros (Fall From Grace, image by James Goudie)</pre>]]
<h3>[[Fall From Grace|Fall From Grace]]</h3>by Bojan Sekulic

''Charian Colony Aleena III''

"So beautiful, so serene," Xalen muttered as she watched the sun rising over the horizon. From the balcony where she stood everything seemed so simple. So peaceful. So '''godly'''. For a few brief moments the old Charian scientist allowed herself to close her eyes and took a deep breath. Slowly her hand went down to the pocket of her clothes. The moment her weary fingers made contact with the small piece inside her pocket an almost childish smile graced her face. She withdrew it, and her smile widened; it meant the world to her. The green glow slowly pulsated, its low hum adding to her sense of serenity. Many cycles had come and gone since she and her team found it, but even now she knew she was holding a piece of eternity in her hands. A piece of history. A piece of greatness.

[[Fall From Grace|Read More]]

Charian

2024-10-11T23:35:59Z

173.31.57.112:

[[File:20170615_charian_race_banner.png|600px|center|Charian Banner]]

<h2>Short Story Introduction</h2>

“But I don’t want it, it’ll hurt!”

“Nonsense!” the Charian in the long lab coat replied, offering the child a small red tablet. 

“We have developed a neurological blocker which, when ingested, is capable of converting pain signals into taste. Therefore, when we prescribe this to you, you will instead taste Xirconberries. The Pandeus modulator procedure will be entirely painless. Do you like Xirconberries?”

“See, it is perfectly harmless. Your father and I have both undergone this procedure and it was absolutely fine,” the boy’s mother interjected seeing the uncertain frown on her daughter.

[[File:0_4_1_bust_0_1.png|250px|right|Charian male by James Goudie]]

“Whoa, who’s that?” the girl suddenly exclaimed jumping down from the bed and pointing out of the hospital wing’s window at the block opposite. There, with his back to the hospital, was a bronzed man with no shirt on. His skin looked alien and unfamiliar compared to the usual Charian hues. Down his spine ran black spots, which came to a point just above his trousers. 

“I must admit that I am unsure of his designation,” the surgeon began, stepping over to join her by the window. 

“I do believe that his species are commonly known as Gervians,” the father added, squinting. 

Before anyone could answer, the man they were watching raised his arms and displayed a series of intricate and complex tattoos which stretched from his shoulder to wrist. As they watched, the tattoos glowed from black to a deep red, the colour sweeping down towards his hands.

“What is...” someone said, but the question hung. The glow faded from the man’s arms and he brought them up towards his face, palms up to be inspected but hidden from the viewers. He began to shake his head and turned to the Charian standing beside him who tapped on the datapad he held.

A few moments later, the Gervian raised his arms once again and the deep red colour once more rushed along his tattoos from his shoulders towards his wrists. This time the movement was slower, more measured. Before it could reach the hand, the Charian turned suddenly towards the window and noticed his gawping audience, causing the girl to gasp. His eye was an electronic terror, a camera lens which spun and focused on the watchers. He stabbed wildly at his datapad and the blinds covering the window snapped shut hiding the inhabitants.

A second later there was a flash of light which could be seen even through the covering.

“I want a robot eye!” the girl shouted, bounding back towards the bed and joyfully leaping in it.

<h2>Racial Overview</h2>

The Charians are a race of fallen gods. Although the loss of their power happened centuries ago and many generations have since passed, they still collectively remember what they once were and each is fascinated with seizing such potential again. They are not an innately evil race, but such obsession drives them down various paths to restore their lost power, and some venture down darker paths than others. Conversely they are also capable of great benevolence. Even those who are considered to have truly fallen can redeem themselves through unexpected kindness and generosity.

As a people, they are very tall with a lanky, bony physiology. They tend to have a medium or light complexion with their skin taking on an unhealthy pallor. Their faces tend to be quite long square structure, while their cheek bones are high and well defined. Their eyes slant upward and their noses do not protrude with their nostrils being virtually arched under the eye. 

Mentally the Charians are gifted with a towering intellect which is well able to internally process vast amounts of data. Their memory tends towards the eidetic or photographic. These traits grant them with a great understanding and interest in any academic pursuit, but this most often manifests as a love of science.

The vast majority of Charians have a cybernetic implant of some kind, either to further improve their already tremendous mental agility or to empower themselves in a more physical way. This is achieved by an automatic injection of hormones or other chemicals, replacing limbs with more efficient prosthetics or even granting themselves regenerative powers. However, this mechanical advantage does come with a cost, their bodies naturally reject these implants unless suppressed with a highly addictive drug known as Pandeus. 

How can they do this to themselves?

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

Do not be so quick to judge. I wonder how far you would go if you were to lose your ability to manipulate senses.

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

<h2>Racial Characteristics</h2>

<h3>Statistics </h3>

[[File:CharianStatistics.png|none|Charian Racial Statistics]]

<h3>Racial Special Abilities</h3>

 - Brain Processor (Cybernetic)

 - Inquisitive (Intelligence)

How can we be sure they all ask for this?

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

That sounds oddly familar... 

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

<h3>Appearance</h3>

General Features
[[File:0_4_1_bust_0_2.png|250px|right|Charian female by James Goudie]]
* Hair
** Varying levels of baldness are common.
** Lumenescent colours.
* Physiology
** Humanoid
*** Tall, lanky and boney.
*** Charians do not have protruding noses and their nostrils appear more like over-developed tear ducts which shape around the eye.
*** Eyes are upturned, giving them a permanent sad-looking face.
*** Prominent necks.
*** Unhealthy palour to the skin.
* Body Art
** Digital tattoos and technological piercings are common.

Male Features
* Physique
** Prominent forehead.
** Blockier face.
** Broader shoulders.

Female Features
* Physique
** Longer eyelashes.
** Narrower face / body.
** Higher cheekbones.

Accoutrements
* Clothes
** Cybernetics are highly prized.
*** Also used for aesthetic purposes and to show wealth or status.
*** Physical feature enhancements.
*** Mental ability enhancements.
** Sterile or clinical clothing.
* Weapons and Armour
** No real use for either, although some implants may be weaponised.

<h2>Religion</h2>

Divinity is the boon and curse of the Charians. They once knew its intoxicating touch and they crave it still. Now they find themselves trying to re-create that sanctity through cybernetics. Unfortunately their bodies reject the implants so they have begun to take Pandeus, an addictive substance which neutralises the rejection but leaves them sickly. They are essentially killing themselves while trying to recover their innate power.

Primary : Deism : 60% : Although their power is gone, most Charians seek to restore their lost divinity by any means necessary.

Secondary : Rationalism : 25% : It is not mysticism which caused this sense of powerlessness. In fact, they do not feel powerless at all. Science has led the race to great advances and who knows what the future holds?

Secondary : Atheism : 15% : Divinity is a cruel mistress and any chance of restoring it is hopeless. They are as pessimistic as they come and even though their search for divinity has ended, the addiction keeps them hooked on cybernetics.

Secondary : Living Gods : Minor : Divinity was never lost, rather the truth has been lost in time. Only some Charians were graced with the innate divinity, and none have ascended for centuries. The potential to do so however, remains. These believers tend to have few or no implants and are “pure”. As such, they are despised by the rest of Charian society as freaks and unnatural.

<h2>Starting Ships-- Scout and Light Carrier</h2>
(Designs by James Goudie)

[[File:20200227_social_media_charian_scout.png|Charian Scout]]

[[File:20200227_social_media_charian_lightCarrier.png|Charian Light Carrier]]

<h2>Racial History</h2>

To be added.

<h2>Faster, higher, stronger. The story of Pandeus.</h2>

Pandeus, 
bringing divinity to the people,
so that all may be gods again.

My name is Chesham and I’m an addict.

Admitting that revelation to those not of my usual group of close associates, that is to say, to strangers, never gets any easier. Now, what if I told you that this state of affairs is not unique to my own circumstances, but rather that my entire genus is thus blemished? 

No doubt you would proclaim us to be vagrants, mendicants or vagabonds, the very detritus of society. We are often condemned as a people, cast aside by the rest of the Concordium and forced to rot in abject poverty and disgrace.

Most would simply condemn us to that fate, but a rare group would rather ask themselves just what has befallen this people? What collective catastrophe could possibly have occurred to doom an entire race to an existence of dependency upon a toxic substance?

Once, we were gods. No, don’t roll your eyes in disbelief, this is a simple truth. We live in a universe where the Gervian people are able to conjure fire and the Saraven read minds. Who is to say that there is not a spark of the divine in us all? Even now we are blessed with an intelligence quotient double that of our confederates. The Tuleonetians can connect their psyche to others of their race. We, on the other hand, are able to innately calculate and understand. 

The sheer processing power of our mind is incredible. We teach quantum theory to our young in primary school, while the adults of our intellectual rivals struggle with its concepts in their highest institutes of education. 

Now imagine if that intelligence was simply an aspect of our biological makeup. Faster, higher, stronger – these were facts of life for us. Those simple sounding traits to which all aspire were once innate abilities of my people. We were not just top of the food chain, we were an entire order of magnitude beyond it. 

Imagine retired athletes running a race and losing. They know that once, in their youth, they would have won the contest simply and efficiently with the barest hint of exertion. They can keenly remember the sensation of victory, the heady power of superiority. Challenge was simply an obstacle to be stepped over.

Think of that athlete now, watching as others basked in the glory they know was once their own. A past they yearn for, but can never regain. Their own body which once bested all competition has become the vehicle of their downfall. 

The Charian race is a species in retirement, our intellect may remain a thing of wonder, but our corporeal existence is an exemplification of weakness and frailty. Consider the frustration, the resentment and the anger we felt before you judge our present state. 

In our torment, we turned to science. For a while, it looked like our minds had unlocked the answers to the problems we faced. It started with treatment for injuries, prosthetic limbs for amputees. Over time we began computerising these artificial crutches, instilling in them the ability to overcome the loss of what was natural. Eventually, we harnessed this technology to not just replace, but to enhance. 

Healthy subjects would mutilate their own arms and legs in order to receive the cybernetic implants. Soon entirely untrained runners were winning the races and new records were set daily for speed, height and strength. The power of our intellect was such that this process took years rather than decades. Within such a short time, we were unable to properly understand what we had unleashed. Once again we went faster, higher, stronger and the population rushed to embrace these new developments with euphoric impatience.

The plague was inevitable. The introduction of foreign entities to our bodies was a recipe for disaster and soon the natural began to reject the mechanical. The death toll from these implants rose into the billions, but still we continued to inflict these devices on ourselves. We were content that a year or two of regained greatness was worth the cost of an early grave. 

It was not. Our cities emptied and we were on the verge of extinction when the Concordium found us. The Emperor Apovlitos, may his flame burn forever bright, devoted his entire scientific budget to helping us find a cure for this self inflicted ailment. It did not take long. The answer was to be found on our own planet, a fairly common bluish stone we had found no use for, one we called Pandorite. 

This, when refined in Concordium labs, became a medicine familiar throughout known space; Pandeus. When taken, it placates our natural response and allows for proper integration of cybernetic technologies into our bodies. 

Once Pandeus came into widespread use, the death rate plummeted. While our longevity never recovered to previous levels, we have been able to rediscover some of the lost spark of divinity within us all. We, as a race, continue to aspire to go faster, higher and stronger.

Has this come with its own price? Naturally. Life is too harsh a mistress to allow such power to come freely. There must be a cost, a sacrifice. Our hair begins to fall out, and what is left takes on luminous colours as our bodies seek an outlet for the toxins. Our skin takes on an unhealthy pallor and our eyes sink into our faces. 

Of course, the worst effect is the one with which I opened this story with. Pandeus is highly addictive and once a dose is prescribed recipients must plan to take it for the rest of their lives. The base consequence of this is negligible, for without it our bodies would once again reject the implants we put into ourselves and death would soon follow. 

Unfortunately Pandeus is of such an addictive nature that one craves more and more of the drug, far more than is required for the maintenance of the cybernetics. Most Charian planets and colonies have procedures in place to cope with the base necessity for survival. It is the craving, however, which causes the true problems. The drug itself is not cheap and it is often difficult to acquire additional doses legally. Black markets spring up to meet the demand and with this comes all the accompanying criminality. 

So, before you judge the next Charian you see on the street, remember this story. Remember who the Charians once were and who they dream to be again. Then ask yourself, wouldn’t you do the same?

Pandeus;
Pan-deus [pan dee-uh s]

Noun; 
All-gods: Charian drug enabling cybernetic implants.

Abbreviation; 
Pan, Dust, D.

 Darshana wonders when do they stop being a Charian, and become something else? 

- Darshana

<h2>Democratic Republic of Valearia</h2>

The majority of Charians live under direct Gervian rule, and despite the Ursians best efforts to grant them a greater degree of independence, seem to be quite satisfied with this arrangement. This is a legacy of the union between Gervian and Charian governments when the Concordium was first founded. Since the First War of Oppression and the Ursian intervention, the Charians have once again been urged to develop their own central authority although the actual success of this has been questionable.

Charians are, on the whole extremely individualistic, they prefer, instead, to be left to their own devices and to be allowed to pursue their own schemes without interference. As such, they are quite willing to allow those with a greater interest in politics and governance to take the lead, even if those individuals are not a Charian. 

The result is a system of government which is staffed predominantly by Gervian bureaucrats with very limited actual power. Although they do maintain a monopoly on violence (the police and army are state maintained), the rest is privatised. As such, many companies choose to incorporate under Charian law, being well able to thrive in the environment of virtually zero regulation. Some of the largest corporations in Concordium space are those that deal in Cybernetic technologies.

The only place in which Charians themselves are really invested is the very powerful Administration Supervising the Handling of Enhancement Strategy (ASHES). This pseudo-governmental body is responsible, not only for the regulation and development of new cybernetics, but also functions as the sole legitimate supplier and distributor of Pandeus.

To its supporters, the Democratic Republic of Valearia is the very embodiment of laissez faire government, while its detractors argue that it is simply the legitimate front for a Gervian puppet state.

<h2> Traveller's Log Entries </h2>

<h3>[[Unlikely Partnership|Unlikely Partnership]]</h3>by Gareth Kay

“Why would you help me?” Aelius growled, leaning forward and holding his lighter protectively before him, his thumb twitching on the ignition.

“Gratitude?” the Charian replied with a low chuckle. He remained hidden in the shadows of the room, sitting at a desk the lamp aimed at their visitor. Before him was an empty seat, behind which the Gervian stood guardedly.

“How can I trust that? I don’t even know you!” came the reply, a note of stress in the voice.

“Oh but you do...” the Charian leant forward then, bringing his face into the light.

[[Unlikely Partnership|Read More]]

[[File:Fall From Grace goudieJ.png|300px|left|<pre style="color: black">Xalen with grandson Doros (Fall From Grace, image by James Goudie)</pre>]]
<h3>[[Fall From Grace|Fall From Grace]]</h3>by Bojan Sekulic

''Charian Colony Aleena III''

"So beautiful, so serene," Xalen muttered as she watched the sun rising over the horizon. From the balcony where she stood everything seemed so simple. So peaceful. So '''godly'''. For a few brief moments the old Charian scientist allowed herself to close her eyes and took a deep breath. Slowly her hand went down to the pocket of her clothes. The moment her weary fingers made contact with the small piece inside her pocket an almost childish smile graced her face. She withdrew it, and her smile widened; it meant the world to her. The green glow slowly pulsated, its low hum adding to her sense of serenity. Many cycles had come and gone since she and her team found it, but even now she knew she was holding a piece of eternity in her hands. A piece of history. A piece of greatness.

[[Fall From Grace|Read More]]

Inarian

2024-10-11T17:44:16Z

173.31.57.112:

[[File:3_race_banner_inarian.png|600px|center|Inarian Banner]]

<h2>Short Story Introduction</h2>

“Do you feel it? Do you feel yourself being energized with its glorious power?” He clenched his hand as the red light began to flow towards his fist. Sparks erupting from the air empowered it, making the glow brighter and brighter.

“It is the embodiment of rage, pumping you with heat and aggression!” he roared, the red bursting from his hand in an explosion of color, the particles swirling around him in a mad torrent. The child near him rushed to her mother, frightened by the eerie look upon Francis’ face.

“It can be the sight of blood on the field of battle or the shrill cries of men begging for their lives.” Francis smiled, the grin manic in its obsession. He then dipped his fingers into a whirl of red in the air, poisoning the colors with a very dark shade. He continued to appear progressively more mesmerized as he watched the darkened red take over.

[[File:0_3_1_bust_0_1.png|250px|right|Inarian male by James Goudie]]

“It is so very magnetic,” he said as he stared into the swirl, watching the different shades mix, “but it can also be quite temperamental…” He then began to slowly move about the room with the waves in the air, closing his eyes as he let its glory engulf him.

“It lights a fiery, powerful passion within ourselves as we gaze upon its stimulating and impulsive presence.” Francis stopped abruptly, his eyes widening with surprise and the red light instantly faded away.

He then quickly composed himself, pacing about the room as he tapped his lips. “It has such a way of rolling off the tongue, does it not? It is such a short word, but it sounds so very sensual and sexy at the same time."

“Red.” He whispered the word, letting it hang in the air as he spoke it.

The illusion of red swirls and waves began to form around them, ranging from light to dark shades. The colors had been passionate and violent before, but they were now warm and comforting.

“As an Inarian, I can appreciate it in all of its beauty and wonder,” Francis said, looking down at the item in his hand.

The young Saraven child continued to stare up at him with wide eyes, staying partially hidden behind her mother’s wing. Francis knelt down to be eye to eye with her, and he held out the necklace with its beautiful, red stone.

<h2>Racial Overview</h2>

Inarians are among the greatest artists known to exist. They have an extraordinary way of experiencing life because they are gifted with extremely powerful senses. For this reason, they feel they have a greater appreciation for the arts and life than others, and they pity those who cannot experience life the way they can. They are highly artistic, favoring artistic expression and form of functionality, rather than the functionality itself. They are also very intelligent, both in their use of technology and in the unique approach which they use to solve problems.

Their skin tones range from dark brown to ebony, which accentuate their brilliant, blue or emerald eyes. Inarian faces are short, and angular with prominent fan-like ears and oily slick hair. They have the ability to create illusions and their uses for it have helped them to further harness their artistic abilities. Their mastery of this extends to the power to imbue their arts with specific emotions, thereby evoking these emotions from others. In addition, Inarians have powerful empathy, being able to understand what another feels as well as feel it themselves. For this reason, they are strongly connected to each other and the world around them.

The Inarians are culturally diverse, but tend to be pacifists and great builders, cherishing the artisans in their societies. They have an innate feature that causes them to imprint upon the one they are destined to join with. This imprinting is established with another Inarian by touching and creates an intense, emotional and physical connection. They share a closer connection to this person than with any other being. Inarians also believe that their souls go to an afterlife known as Mon’dis, where they are free from their physical form and are returned to life as energy. If two lovers are separated for too long, after imprinting, their bodies slowly begin to turn to stone. If not rejoined before the process is completed, they become fully petrified. Their figure is left as a memory, having captured their last moments without their beloved. These statues can be found throughout their home worlds. It is said that any two lovers who hold this fate are reborn to imprint in another life once again until their death returns them to Mon’dis.

Much of the style of the Concordium’s wonderful architecture is a mere fragment of the artistic talent that the Inarians hold.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

Darshana glad Inarians put emotion in stories. Darshana not understand how to feel otherwise. Inarians use too many words.

- Darshana

<h2>Racial Characteristics</h2>

<h3>Statistics </h3>

[[File:InarianStatistics.png|none|Inarian Racial Statistics]]

<h3>Racial Special Abilities</h3>

 - Illusion Creation (Psionic)

 - Empathy (Psionics)

<h3>Appearance</h3>

General Features
[[File:0_3_1_bust_0_2.png|250px|right|Inarian female by James Goudie]]
* Physiology
** Fan-like ears (webbed)
** Rat-like features
** Striking, brilliant blue or green eyes.
*** Short Face
*** Underdeveloped chin
* Hair
** Oily / slick.

Male Features
* Physique
** Slender and graceful
** Dark to olive skin.
* Hair
** Variety of styles, but tending towards long, often tied into ponytails. Conscious of popular trends.

Female Features

* Physique
** Slender and graceful.
* Hair
** Variety of styles, but tending towards longer than males. Braided, plaited or ponytails much in evidence. Conscious of popular trends.

Accoutrements
* Clothing
** Bright and vibrant, often in jewel tones accentuated with white or black. Complex dress sense, filled with deeper meaning.
** Subtle jewel use, often to accentuate other features.
* Weapons
** None.

My own thoughts on the masters of the melodramatic aside, there is no denying that the universe would be far less colourful without them.

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

The rumours were true! Our esteemed academic has a sense of humour!

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

<h2>Religion</h2>

The Inarians all believe in progress and self-discovery through art and artistic endeavor. Life is about understanding themselves and the world around them, finding beauty wherever it is to be found, and mastering the arts. Many devote their entire lives to their standards of perfection, driven to be all that they can be.

All three are practiced within Inarian society, the emphasis the individual places on each is what matters.

Primary : Self Actualisation : 40% : Inarians who work towards self-actualization believe that the divine enlightenment lies in mastery, of both themselves and their craft. They constantly strive to live a life that is ever evolving in understanding. 

Secondary : Creation: 30% : There is life in everything, and life is beautiful, and as such, must be examined and worshipped at every opportunity. There is no greater form of reverence than to create great works in honour of this.

Secondary : Mysticism: 30% : There is so much beauty in the world, what the Inarians are capable of is but a fraction of that, and this is because we do not truly understand the processes underlying natural creation.

<h3>The Greater Truth - Vie'te </h3>

Inarians believe themselves to have a higher understanding of life. For this reason, they feel they are able to decipher the true meanings behind what surrounds it. There lies a greater truth, Vie’te, beyond these truths of life. This truth, however, is said to be on the very fringe of the Inarians’ comprehension. Being just short of this has left many restless, ready to explore themselves and their world in an attempt to gain the knowledge of Vie’te. This pursuit has even driven some mad.

In the midst of their understanding, Inarians are used to others coming to them for advice and understanding. Their views on situations and the world involve keen intellect and magnificent insight, leaving many to wonder how life can be so well understood.

The Inarians offer guidance to many, and it’s not difficult to see why so many seek them out. They dedicate their lives to self-discovery and art, and there’s nothing more important to them. If someone has lost their way in life, an Inarian can certainly help to show them the path.

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

Vie’te is the truth of everything that we know about life. It is perfect understanding, and it’s what separates us from merely being alive and truly living. No one has been able to fully comprehend it, however, and I wonder if anyone ever will. I mean; I could, but I’m far too busy to make time for that.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

<h2>Starting Ships-- Scout and Light Carrier</h2>
(Designs by James Goudie)

[[File:20191020_inarian_scout.png|Inarian Scout]]

[[File:20191020_inarian_lightCarrier.png|Inarian Light Carrier]]

<h2>Racial History</h2>

To be added

<h2>The Confederacy of Waldoria</h2>

The Confederacy of Waldoria is made up of four worlds. Each has its own government by which it operates, but Waldoria, the smallest of the four, is the main centralized government. Politicians often strive to earn a place here. The highest position of each planet is having a seat among its Board of Conjurie, where decisions for the planet, government, and race are made. Upon earning such a position, an Inarian may continue to have that seat as long as he or she wishes. Those who ascend through the ranks of politics do so only by displaying a deep insight of life, a strong sense of self, and a feeling of intense empathy for fellow Inarians. Many of these people believe to have known their place among the law, judgment, and representation of the Inarians while still very young.

The largest planet in the confederacy is known as Vivla, and it is from there where many Inarians trace their ancestry. It is lush with enormous forests and vast, clear waters. Like the other planets, its beauty is highly cherished. Many Inarians work to improve technology and knowledge with as little alteration or damage to the environment as possible.

The other worlds are Solviare and Luviare. They are nearly the same size, and they orbit between Waldoria and Vivla. A more luxurious life style is practiced on these worlds. More adjustments to the environment have been allowed, when it has proven to be both necessary and minor. Still, the citizens work to master their crafts and learn the art of life.

The Confederacy of Waldoria was formed after a dispute between Solviare and Luviare, each desiring control of Waldoria. It was a smaller, ungoverned world with very few inhabitants. Just when it seemed war may erupt between the two, a group stepped forward from Vivla. They suggested that the three of them incorporate to join with the planet to create a confederacy of four. After much debate, they agreed to unite and become a single nation, with representatives from each traveling to Waldoria to form the central government.

Vivla is our main home world. It is among the most gorgeous, serene places you will ever have the chance to visit. Well preserved and respected, the planet is more treasured to many of us Inarians than our own lives.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

<h2> Traveller's Log Entries </h2>

<h3>[[Without You|Without You]]</h3>(by Chet DeLano)
“It’s only for a month…” She reassured him, wrapped in his loving arms.

“A month far too long, if you ask me…” He responded, admiring her long, rich auburn hair as he rubbed the lobe of her perfect Inarian ear. “Oh, how I wish you didn’t have to stay.”

“I wish I didn’t either, but remember that it’s to show off your gift. You’ve honed it far beyond what it used to be. You’ll be able to silence your critics with awe this time. If you don’t go, you will forever live in fear of their spiteful words. Besides, you’ll be back before I know it, right?”

[[Without Her|Read More]]

<h3>[[Without Her|Without Her]]</h3>(by Chet DeLano)
“Care for a beverage, sir?” the Gervian flight attendant asked.

Francis sat with one arm folded, the other holding a piece of parchment in front of him. “I’m certain you will find it to display the-”

“Err, sir?” she kindly interrupted.

His fixation on the paper broke and he stared at her blankly, lost in thought. Her long brown hair was pulled back and it reminded him of Odette’s. He then shook his head and laughed, realizing he had yet to reply to the young woman.

[[Without Her|Read More]]

<h3>[[Without Him|Without Him]]</h3>(by Chet DeLano)
“This is perfect.” Odette said, holding his hand as she stared at the starry sky with her beloved Francis.

He traced the smooth grooves of her slender fingers. “Yes. Yes, it is.” he grinned.
Odette turned to see he had been staring at her with great fascination. His gaze refused to waver and she smiled, looking back to the stars to watch as one soared by.

Francis suddenly broke from their hold and wriggled strangely. He rolled over onto his stomach, clawing at his lower back. “Ah! This meadow’s greens are so itchy!” Odette couldn’t help but burst into laughter at the sight of him.

[[Without Him|Read More]]

<h3>[[With You|With You]]</h3>(by Chet DeLano)

Fernand sat in his study, the room lit just as the incense burned before him. He studied the smoke as it slowly rolled and spread through the air. He listened to the wisps of smoke as they sang to him, whirling until they faded.

“How curious, to be one of you.” He said aloud, lowering his gaze and resting his chin upon his desk.

“You’re not much different than I...”

[[With You|Read More]]

Inarian

2024-10-11T17:32:27Z

173.31.57.112:

[[File:3_race_banner_inarian.png|600px|center|Inarian Banner]]

<h2>Short Story Introduction</h2>

“Do you feel it? Do you feel yourself being energized with its glorious power?” He clenched his hand as the red light began to flow towards his fist. Sparks erupting from the air empowered it, making the glow brighter and brighter.

“It is the embodiment of rage, pumping you with heat and aggression!” he roared, the red bursting from his hand in an explosion of color, the particles swirling around him in a mad torrent. The child near him rushed to her mother, frightened by the eerie look upon Francis’ face.

“It can be the sight of blood on the field of battle or the shrill cries of men begging for their lives.” Francis smiled, the grin manic in its obsession. He then dipped his fingers into a whirl of red in the air, poisoning the colors with a very dark shade. He continued to appear progressively more mesmerized as he watched the darkened red take over.

[[File:20170725_inarian_male.png|250px|right|Inarian male by James Goudie]]

“It is so very magnetic,” he said as he stared into the swirl, watching the different shades mix, “but it can also be quite temperamental…” He then began to slowly move about the room with the waves in the air, closing his eyes as he let its glory engulf him.

“It lights a fiery, powerful passion within ourselves as we gaze upon its stimulating and impulsive presence.” Francis stopped abruptly, his eyes widening with surprise and the red light instantly faded away.

He then quickly composed himself, pacing about the room as he tapped his lips. “It has such a way of rolling off the tongue, does it not? It is such a short word, but it sounds so very sensual and sexy at the same time."

“Red.” He whispered the word, letting it hang in the air as he spoke it.

The illusion of red swirls and waves began to form around them, ranging from light to dark shades. The colors had been passionate and violent before, but they were now warm and comforting.

“As an Inarian, I can appreciate it in all of its beauty and wonder,” Francis said, looking down at the item in his hand.

The young Saraven child continued to stare up at him with wide eyes, staying partially hidden behind her mother’s wing. Francis knelt down to be eye to eye with her, and he held out the necklace with its beautiful, red stone.

<h2>Racial Overview</h2>

Inarians are among the greatest artists known to exist. They have an extraordinary way of experiencing life because they are gifted with extremely powerful senses. For this reason, they feel they have a greater appreciation for the arts and life than others, and they pity those who cannot experience life the way they can. They are highly artistic, favoring artistic expression and form of functionality, rather than the functionality itself. They are also very intelligent, both in their use of technology and in the unique approach which they use to solve problems.

Their skin tones range from dark brown to ebony, which accentuate their brilliant, blue or emerald eyes. Inarian faces are short, and angular with prominent fan-like ears and oily slick hair. They have the ability to create illusions and their uses for it have helped them to further harness their artistic abilities. Their mastery of this extends to the power to imbue their arts with specific emotions, thereby evoking these emotions from others. In addition, Inarians have powerful empathy, being able to understand what another feels as well as feel it themselves. For this reason, they are strongly connected to each other and the world around them.

The Inarians are culturally diverse, but tend to be pacifists and great builders, cherishing the artisans in their societies. They have an innate feature that causes them to imprint upon the one they are destined to join with. This imprinting is established with another Inarian by touching and creates an intense, emotional and physical connection. They share a closer connection to this person than with any other being. Inarians also believe that their souls go to an afterlife known as Mon’dis, where they are free from their physical form and are returned to life as energy. If two lovers are separated for too long, after imprinting, their bodies slowly begin to turn to stone. If not rejoined before the process is completed, they become fully petrified. Their figure is left as a memory, having captured their last moments without their beloved. These statues can be found throughout their home worlds. It is said that any two lovers who hold this fate are reborn to imprint in another life once again until their death returns them to Mon’dis.

Much of the style of the Concordium’s wonderful architecture is a mere fragment of the artistic talent that the Inarians hold.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

Darshana glad Inarians put emotion in stories. Darshana not understand how to feel otherwise. Inarians use too many words.

- Darshana

<h2>Racial Characteristics</h2>

<h3>Statistics </h3>

[[File:InarianStatistics.png|none|Inarian Racial Statistics]]

<h3>Racial Special Abilities</h3>

 - Illusion Creation (Psionic)

 - Empathy (Psionics)

<h3>Appearance</h3>

General Features
[[File:20170725_inarian_female.png|250px|right|Inarian female by James Goudie]]
* Physiology
** Fan-like ears (webbed)
** Rat-like features
** Striking, brilliant blue or green eyes.
*** Short Face
*** Underdeveloped chin
* Hair
** Oily / slick.

Male Features
* Physique
** Slender and graceful
** Dark to olive skin.
* Hair
** Variety of styles, but tending towards long, often tied into ponytails. Conscious of popular trends.

Female Features

* Physique
** Slender and graceful.
* Hair
** Variety of styles, but tending towards longer than males. Braided, plaited or ponytails much in evidence. Conscious of popular trends.

Accoutrements
* Clothing
** Bright and vibrant, often in jewel tones accentuated with white or black. Complex dress sense, filled with deeper meaning.
** Subtle jewel use, often to accentuate other features.
* Weapons
** None.

My own thoughts on the masters of the melodramatic aside, there is no denying that the universe would be far less colourful without them.

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

The rumours were true! Our esteemed academic has a sense of humour!

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

<h2>Religion</h2>

The Inarians all believe in progress and self-discovery through art and artistic endeavor. Life is about understanding themselves and the world around them, finding beauty wherever it is to be found, and mastering the arts. Many devote their entire lives to their standards of perfection, driven to be all that they can be.

All three are practiced within Inarian society, the emphasis the individual places on each is what matters.

Primary : Self Actualisation : 40% : Inarians who work towards self-actualization believe that the divine enlightenment lies in mastery, of both themselves and their craft. They constantly strive to live a life that is ever evolving in understanding. 

Secondary : Creation: 30% : There is life in everything, and life is beautiful, and as such, must be examined and worshipped at every opportunity. There is no greater form of reverence than to create great works in honour of this.

Secondary : Mysticism: 30% : There is so much beauty in the world, what the Inarians are capable of is but a fraction of that, and this is because we do not truly understand the processes underlying natural creation.

<h3>The Greater Truth - Vie'te </h3>

Inarians believe themselves to have a higher understanding of life. For this reason, they feel they are able to decipher the true meanings behind what surrounds it. There lies a greater truth, Vie’te, beyond these truths of life. This truth, however, is said to be on the very fringe of the Inarians’ comprehension. Being just short of this has left many restless, ready to explore themselves and their world in an attempt to gain the knowledge of Vie’te. This pursuit has even driven some mad.

In the midst of their understanding, Inarians are used to others coming to them for advice and understanding. Their views on situations and the world involve keen intellect and magnificent insight, leaving many to wonder how life can be so well understood.

The Inarians offer guidance to many, and it’s not difficult to see why so many seek them out. They dedicate their lives to self-discovery and art, and there’s nothing more important to them. If someone has lost their way in life, an Inarian can certainly help to show them the path.

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

Vie’te is the truth of everything that we know about life. It is perfect understanding, and it’s what separates us from merely being alive and truly living. No one has been able to fully comprehend it, however, and I wonder if anyone ever will. I mean; I could, but I’m far too busy to make time for that.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

<h2>Starting Ships-- Scout and Light Carrier</h2>
(Designs by James Goudie)

[[File:20180405_inarian_scout_silhouette_jgoudie.png|Inarian Scout]]
[[File:20180405_inarian_lightCarrier_silhouette_jgoudie.png|Inarian Light Carrier]]

<h2>Racial History</h2>

To be added

<h2>The Confederacy of Waldoria</h2>

The Confederacy of Waldoria is made up of four worlds. Each has its own government by which it operates, but Waldoria, the smallest of the four, is the main centralized government. Politicians often strive to earn a place here. The highest position of each planet is having a seat among its Board of Conjurie, where decisions for the planet, government, and race are made. Upon earning such a position, an Inarian may continue to have that seat as long as he or she wishes. Those who ascend through the ranks of politics do so only by displaying a deep insight of life, a strong sense of self, and a feeling of intense empathy for fellow Inarians. Many of these people believe to have known their place among the law, judgment, and representation of the Inarians while still very young.

The largest planet in the confederacy is known as Vivla, and it is from there where many Inarians trace their ancestry. It is lush with enormous forests and vast, clear waters. Like the other planets, its beauty is highly cherished. Many Inarians work to improve technology and knowledge with as little alteration or damage to the environment as possible.

The other worlds are Solviare and Luviare. They are nearly the same size, and they orbit between Waldoria and Vivla. A more luxurious life style is practiced on these worlds. More adjustments to the environment have been allowed, when it has proven to be both necessary and minor. Still, the citizens work to master their crafts and learn the art of life.

The Confederacy of Waldoria was formed after a dispute between Solviare and Luviare, each desiring control of Waldoria. It was a smaller, ungoverned world with very few inhabitants. Just when it seemed war may erupt between the two, a group stepped forward from Vivla. They suggested that the three of them incorporate to join with the planet to create a confederacy of four. After much debate, they agreed to unite and become a single nation, with representatives from each traveling to Waldoria to form the central government.

Vivla is our main home world. It is among the most gorgeous, serene places you will ever have the chance to visit. Well preserved and respected, the planet is more treasured to many of us Inarians than our own lives.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

<h2> Traveller's Log Entries </h2>

<h3>[[Without You|Without You]]</h3>(by Chet DeLano)
“It’s only for a month…” She reassured him, wrapped in his loving arms.

“A month far too long, if you ask me…” He responded, admiring her long, rich auburn hair as he rubbed the lobe of her perfect Inarian ear. “Oh, how I wish you didn’t have to stay.”

“I wish I didn’t either, but remember that it’s to show off your gift. You’ve honed it far beyond what it used to be. You’ll be able to silence your critics with awe this time. If you don’t go, you will forever live in fear of their spiteful words. Besides, you’ll be back before I know it, right?”

[[Without Her|Read More]]

<h3>[[Without Her|Without Her]]</h3>(by Chet DeLano)
“Care for a beverage, sir?” the Gervian flight attendant asked.

Francis sat with one arm folded, the other holding a piece of parchment in front of him. “I’m certain you will find it to display the-”

“Err, sir?” she kindly interrupted.

His fixation on the paper broke and he stared at her blankly, lost in thought. Her long brown hair was pulled back and it reminded him of Odette’s. He then shook his head and laughed, realizing he had yet to reply to the young woman.

[[Without Her|Read More]]

<h3>[[Without Him|Without Him]]</h3>(by Chet DeLano)
“This is perfect.” Odette said, holding his hand as she stared at the starry sky with her beloved Francis.

He traced the smooth grooves of her slender fingers. “Yes. Yes, it is.” he grinned.
Odette turned to see he had been staring at her with great fascination. His gaze refused to waver and she smiled, looking back to the stars to watch as one soared by.

Francis suddenly broke from their hold and wriggled strangely. He rolled over onto his stomach, clawing at his lower back. “Ah! This meadow’s greens are so itchy!” Odette couldn’t help but burst into laughter at the sight of him.

[[Without Him|Read More]]

<h3>[[With You|With You]]</h3>(by Chet DeLano)

Fernand sat in his study, the room lit just as the incense burned before him. He studied the smoke as it slowly rolled and spread through the air. He listened to the wisps of smoke as they sang to him, whirling until they faded.

“How curious, to be one of you.” He said aloud, lowering his gaze and resting his chin upon his desk.

“You’re not much different than I...”

[[With You|Read More]]

Inarian

2024-10-11T17:24:03Z

173.31.57.112: Created page with "Inarian Banner <h2>Short Story Introduction</h2> “Do you feel it? Do you feel yourself being energized with its glorious power?” He clenched his hand as the red light began to flow towards his fist. Sparks erupting from the air empowered it, making the glow brighter and brighter. “It is the embodiment of rage, pumping you with heat and aggression!” he roared, the red bursting f..."

[[File:3_race_banner_inarian.png|600px|center|Inarian Banner]]

 

<h2>Short Story Introduction</h2>

 

“Do you feel it? Do you feel yourself being energized with its glorious power?” He clenched his hand as the red light began to flow towards his fist. Sparks erupting from the air empowered it, making the glow brighter and brighter.

“It is the embodiment of rage, pumping you with heat and aggression!” he roared, the red bursting from his hand in an explosion of color, the particles swirling around him in a mad torrent. The child near him rushed to her mother, frightened by the eerie look upon Francis’ face.

“It can be the sight of blood on the field of battle or the shrill cries of men begging for their lives.” Francis smiled, the grin manic in its obsession. He then dipped his fingers into a whirl of red in the air, poisoning the colors with a very dark shade. He continued to appear progressively more mesmerized as he watched the darkened red take over.

[[File:20170725_inarian_male.png|250px|right|Inarian male by James Goudie]]

“It is so very magnetic,” he said as he stared into the swirl, watching the different shades mix, “but it can also be quite temperamental…” He then began to slowly move about the room with the waves in the air, closing his eyes as he let its glory engulf him.

“It lights a fiery, powerful passion within ourselves as we gaze upon its stimulating and impulsive presence.” Francis stopped abruptly, his eyes widening with surprise and the red light instantly faded away.

He then quickly composed himself, pacing about the room as he tapped his lips. “It has such a way of rolling off the tongue, does it not? It is such a short word, but it sounds so very sensual and sexy at the same time."

“Red.” He whispered the word, letting it hang in the air as he spoke it.

The illusion of red swirls and waves began to form around them, ranging from light to dark shades. The colors had been passionate and violent before, but they were now warm and comforting.

“As an Inarian, I can appreciate it in all of its beauty and wonder,” Francis said, looking down at the item in his hand.

The young Saraven child continued to stare up at him with wide eyes, staying partially hidden behind her mother’s wing. Francis knelt down to be eye to eye with her, and he held out the necklace with its beautiful, red stone.

 

<h2>Racial Overview</h2>

Inarians are among the greatest artists known to exist. They have an extraordinary way of experiencing life because they are gifted with extremely powerful senses. For this reason, they feel they have a greater appreciation for the arts and life than others, and they pity those who cannot experience life the way they can. They are highly artistic, favoring artistic expression and form of functionality, rather than the functionality itself. They are also very intelligent, both in their use of technology and in the unique approach which they use to solve problems.

Their skin tones range from dark brown to ebony, which accentuate their brilliant, blue or emerald eyes. Inarian faces are short, and angular with prominent fan-like ears and oily slick hair. They have the ability to create illusions and their uses for it have helped them to further harness their artistic abilities. Their mastery of this extends to the power to imbue their arts with specific emotions, thereby evoking these emotions from others. In addition, Inarians have powerful empathy, being able to understand what another feels as well as feel it themselves. For this reason, they are strongly connected to each other and the world around them.

The Inarians are culturally diverse, but tend to be pacifists and great builders, cherishing the artisans in their societies. They have an innate feature that causes them to imprint upon the one they are destined to join with. This imprinting is established with another Inarian by touching and creates an intense, emotional and physical connection. They share a closer connection to this person than with any other being. Inarians also believe that their souls go to an afterlife known as Mon’dis, where they are free from their physical form and are returned to life as energy. If two lovers are separated for too long, after imprinting, their bodies slowly begin to turn to stone. If not rejoined before the process is completed, they become fully petrified. Their figure is left as a memory, having captured their last moments without their beloved. These statues can be found throughout their home worlds. It is said that any two lovers who hold this fate are reborn to imprint in another life once again until their death returns them to Mon’dis.

 
Much of the style of the Concordium’s wonderful architecture is a mere fragment of the artistic talent that the Inarians hold.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

 

Darshana glad Inarians put emotion in stories. Darshana not understand how to feel otherwise. Inarians use too many words.

- Darshana

 

<h2>Racial Characteristics</h2>

<h3>Statistics </h3>

 

[[File:InarianStatistics.png|none|Inarian Racial Statistics]]

 

<h3>Racial Special Abilities</h3>

 

 - Illusion Creation (Psionic)

 - Empathy (Psionics)

<h3>Appearance</h3>

General Features
[[File:20170725_inarian_female.png|250px|right|Inarian female by James Goudie]]
* Physiology
** Fan-like ears (webbed)
** Rat-like features
** Striking, brilliant blue or green eyes.
*** Short Face
*** Underdeveloped chin
* Hair
** Oily / slick.

 

Male Features
* Physique
** Slender and graceful
** Dark to olive skin.
* Hair
** Variety of styles, but tending towards long, often tied into ponytails. Conscious of popular trends.

 

Female Features

* Physique
** Slender and graceful.
* Hair
** Variety of styles, but tending towards longer than males. Braided, plaited or ponytails much in evidence. Conscious of popular trends.

 

Accoutrements
* Clothing
** Bright and vibrant, often in jewel tones accentuated with white or black. Complex dress sense, filled with deeper meaning.
** Subtle jewel use, often to accentuate other features.
* Weapons
** None.

My own thoughts on the masters of the melodramatic aside, there is no denying that the universe would be far less colourful without them.

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

 

The rumours were true! Our esteemed academic has a sense of humour!

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

<h2>Religion</h2>

The Inarians all believe in progress and self-discovery through art and artistic endeavor. Life is about understanding themselves and the world around them, finding beauty wherever it is to be found, and mastering the arts. Many devote their entire lives to their standards of perfection, driven to be all that they can be.

All three are practiced within Inarian society, the emphasis the individual places on each is what matters.

 

Primary : Self Actualisation : 40% : Inarians who work towards self-actualization believe that the divine enlightenment lies in mastery, of both themselves and their craft. They constantly strive to live a life that is ever evolving in understanding. 

Secondary : Creation: 30% : There is life in everything, and life is beautiful, and as such, must be examined and worshipped at every opportunity. There is no greater form of reverence than to create great works in honour of this.

Secondary : Mysticism: 30% : There is so much beauty in the world, what the Inarians are capable of is but a fraction of that, and this is because we do not truly understand the processes underlying natural creation.

<h3>The Greater Truth - Vie'te </h3>

Inarians believe themselves to have a higher understanding of life. For this reason, they feel they are able to decipher the true meanings behind what surrounds it. There lies a greater truth, Vie’te, beyond these truths of life. This truth, however, is said to be on the very fringe of the Inarians’ comprehension. Being just short of this has left many restless, ready to explore themselves and their world in an attempt to gain the knowledge of Vie’te. This pursuit has even driven some mad.

In the midst of their understanding, Inarians are used to others coming to them for advice and understanding. Their views on situations and the world involve keen intellect and magnificent insight, leaving many to wonder how life can be so well understood.

 

The Inarians offer guidance to many, and it’s not difficult to see why so many seek them out. They dedicate their lives to self-discovery and art, and there’s nothing more important to them. If someone has lost their way in life, an Inarian can certainly help to show them the path.

– Conleth, Historian to the Concordium.

 

Vie’te is the truth of everything that we know about life. It is perfect understanding, and it’s what separates us from merely being alive and truly living. No one has been able to fully comprehend it, however, and I wonder if anyone ever will. I mean; I could, but I’m far too busy to make time for that.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

<h2>Starting Ships-- Scout and Light Carrier</h2>
(Designs by James Goudie)

[[File:20180405_inarian_scout_silhouette_jgoudie.png|Inarian Scout]]
[[File:20180405_inarian_lightCarrier_silhouette_jgoudie.png|Inarian Light Carrier]]

<h2>Racial History</h2>

To be added

<h2>The Confederacy of Waldoria</h2>

The Confederacy of Waldoria is made up of four worlds. Each has its own government by which it operates, but Waldoria, the smallest of the four, is the main centralized government. Politicians often strive to earn a place here. The highest position of each planet is having a seat among its Board of Conjurie, where decisions for the planet, government, and race are made. Upon earning such a position, an Inarian may continue to have that seat as long as he or she wishes. Those who ascend through the ranks of politics do so only by displaying a deep insight of life, a strong sense of self, and a feeling of intense empathy for fellow Inarians. Many of these people believe to have known their place among the law, judgment, and representation of the Inarians while still very young.

The largest planet in the confederacy is known as Vivla, and it is from there where many Inarians trace their ancestry. It is lush with enormous forests and vast, clear waters. Like the other planets, its beauty is highly cherished. Many Inarians work to improve technology and knowledge with as little alteration or damage to the environment as possible.

The other worlds are Solviare and Luviare. They are nearly the same size, and they orbit between Waldoria and Vivla. A more luxurious life style is practiced on these worlds. More adjustments to the environment have been allowed, when it has proven to be both necessary and minor. Still, the citizens work to master their crafts and learn the art of life.

The Confederacy of Waldoria was formed after a dispute between Solviare and Luviare, each desiring control of Waldoria. It was a smaller, ungoverned world with very few inhabitants. Just when it seemed war may erupt between the two, a group stepped forward from Vivla. They suggested that the three of them incorporate to join with the planet to create a confederacy of four. After much debate, they agreed to unite and become a single nation, with representatives from each traveling to Waldoria to form the central government.

 

Vivla is our main home world. It is among the most gorgeous, serene places you will ever have the chance to visit. Well preserved and respected, the planet is more treasured to many of us Inarians than our own lives.

- Eloise Quepero D'Pigens

<h2> Traveller's Log Entries </h2>

<h3>[[Without You|Without You]]</h3>(by Chet DeLano)
“It’s only for a month…” She reassured him, wrapped in his loving arms.

“A month far too long, if you ask me…” He responded, admiring her long, rich auburn hair as he rubbed the lobe of her perfect Inarian ear. “Oh, how I wish you didn’t have to stay.”

“I wish I didn’t either, but remember that it’s to show off your gift. You’ve honed it far beyond what it used to be. You’ll be able to silence your critics with awe this time. If you don’t go, you will forever live in fear of their spiteful words. Besides, you’ll be back before I know it, right?”

[[Without Her|Read More]]

<h3>[[Without Her|Without Her]]</h3>(by Chet DeLano)
“Care for a beverage, sir?” the Gervian flight attendant asked.

Francis sat with one arm folded, the other holding a piece of parchment in front of him. “I’m certain you will find it to display the-”

“Err, sir?” she kindly interrupted.

His fixation on the paper broke and he stared at her blankly, lost in thought. Her long brown hair was pulled back and it reminded him of Odette’s. He then shook his head and laughed, realizing he had yet to reply to the young woman.

[[Without Her|Read More]]

<h3>[[Without Him|Without Him]]</h3>(by Chet DeLano)
“This is perfect.” Odette said, holding his hand as she stared at the starry sky with her beloved Francis.

He traced the smooth grooves of her slender fingers. “Yes. Yes, it is.” he grinned.
Odette turned to see he had been staring at her with great fascination. His gaze refused to waver and she smiled, looking back to the stars to watch as one soared by.

Francis suddenly broke from their hold and wriggled strangely. He rolled over onto his stomach, clawing at his lower back. “Ah! This meadow’s greens are so itchy!” Odette couldn’t help but burst into laughter at the sight of him.

[[Without Him|Read More]]

<h3>[[With You|With You]]</h3>(by Chet DeLano)

Fernand sat in his study, the room lit just as the incense burned before him. He studied the smoke as it slowly rolled and spread through the air. He listened to the wisps of smoke as they sang to him, whirling until they faded.

“How curious, to be one of you.” He said aloud, lowering his gaze and resting his chin upon his desk.

“You’re not much different than I...”

[[With You|Read More]]

Development Team

2024-10-09T20:24:07Z

173.31.57.112:

- James C Landes+

- Timothy N Trainor+

- Bill Hicks+

- Kelly Loveridge+

- Geoffrey Adams+

- Kody Jones

- Lloyd Smith+

- Ethan Boeve+

- Alan Saari+

- Scott F Elder+

- Joshua A Meyer (Jelly)+

- Samantha Tobin+

- Gareth Kay+

- Zachary Mathiot+

- Katie Austin+

- James Goudie+

- Christina Hamill+

- Christopher VanOosterhout+

- Chet Delano+

- Delena Perez

- Nathan Ayers

- Ryan Mason

- Nicholas Frein+

- Cameron Ames+

- Tyler Davidson

- Jacob Scott

- Jonathan Holter+

- Lori Hazelton+

- James Lillie+

- Ryker Morningstar

- Kurt Kruger

- Steven Potter

- Michael Secrest+

- Nancy Slater

- Zackary Bancuk+

- Zachary Herbert+

- Quentin Labbe

- Wayne Bruursema

- James Highwind

- Aric Smith+

- Jericho Gonzales+

- Arianne Lee+

- Jessica Pratt

- David Whynot+

- Luke Bonner+

- Jerome Schaner

- Jarod Jordan

- Samantha Monroe+

- Joey Peters

- Avery Agard

- Mike Alstrom

- Ryan Roland

- Sameen Taraz

- Alex Bernhardt

- Bojan Sekulic+

- Pearl Slayton

- Tyler Baushke

- Andrew Breuklander

- Kelsy Mascorro

- Davis Mastermen+

- Mark Taylor+

- Alex Nieusma

- Rachel Parker+

''+Royalty Share''

Development Team

2024-10-09T20:23:32Z

173.31.57.112: