Metabarons and Technopriests

U N I V E R S E G U I D E WITH THE PARTICIPATION OF ALEXANDRO JODOROWKSY ABRIDGED EDITION

PREFACE Phew! My head’s on fire!… I just blew a diode! But I’m not complaining — quite the opposite. I’m happy, for I know at last that I’m not human… The limitations of my bio-organism had been depressing me. Even more than that, it’s been the walls of the mental prison that hem us in from childhood, the “rational” mold called school. But then came the Yéti Mu- tants: Fred Le Berre, Marc Prudhomme, Kurt Mc Clung, and Julien Blondel. They put me under the red-hot rays of their psycho-interrogation lamp and bombarded me with questions for a full fifty hours. Initially, I was overcome with feelings of anger. What right did these young griffins have to dare infringe upon the inner recesses of my cerebral maze in this way, hunting down answers that like giant jellyfish were floating along the veins of my unconscious? But I had a plan! Slowly, step by little step, I was going to give them the keys to the Incal Universe, which is the same as the Metabarons and TechnoPriests. A hugely immense “oeuvre” that would have taken me at least ten years to recount. But I hadn’t been counting on the young mutants’ impatience. They wanted to know everything, right away. Showing no respect they fired off their mental probes, assaulting my impregnable Data Bank and under the incessant fire of their questions, my human mask disintegrated. I ceased being a man and became a universe. Far, far away, in an ethereal zone where my body didn’t exist, I saw myself giving away tons of secrets, with an absolute precision that I had never before dared to imagine, even in my dreams. At the height of the trance, streams of words — barely comprehensible for they were of human origin — gushed from my mouth, laying bare the hidden structure of the cosmos, the nature of the people who live there, the mysteries of parallel universes, thousands of centuries of history, countless weapons and vessels, outrageous doctrines, judges and laws, and billions of other things as well… A new chapter in the history of my Jodoverse came to life with each one of their questions. A moment of extreme ecstasy! A singular experience that can only be compared to what happened to me one day in Mexico while meditating in a Buddhist Temple with a Japanese Zen master. Suddenly, he subjected my spirit to a koan — a sacred riddle conceived to break the straight jacket of the intellect: “I have no beginning, nor end. Who am I?” I knew very well that some monks go into retreat for ten or twenty years looking for an answer, which isn’t necessarily expressed in words. But, body taught with effort like a readied archery bow, I wanted to find the solution in that very instant: “I am god; that’s it, I am everything.” Full of wrath and disdain, the master threw me out of the temple: “Intellectual! Learn to die!” My failure was filled with such disgrace and shame that a part of me died on the spot. Instantaneously, I became another. And from the deepest reaches of my unconscious, a voice that was already no longer human exclaimed: “There is no beginning and there is no end. There just is.” Thank you for your questions, Yéti. They blew my diodes. They made me into a galaxy of answers, nothing but answers. Ever since, I roam infinite space, in search of the first and last question. Alexandro Jodorowsky TM

U N I V E R S E G U I D E

ABRIDGED EDITION

1 The Empire 4 2 The Four Pillars 18 3 The Factions 36 4 Everyday Life 51 5 Endocities 61 6 The Universe 74 7 Worlds 80 8 Aliens 94 9 Mutants 101 10 Major Forces 105 11 Cults and Religions 112 12 Amarax and Necro-Dream 117 13 Technological Progress 122 14 Weapons 127 15 Cybernetics 139 16 Robotics 143 17 Transportation 147 18 The Metabunker 150 Glossary 153 Reading List 155 Note to Our Readers This PDF version of the Universe Guide was created from the original electronic files. Images and select text were left out or modified and the page layout was modified to reduce file size and production time. This electronic document is provided as an relatively inexpensive means for people to get previously unavailable information about the Metabarons Universe. If you received a copy of this file from a friend and would like to support the publishing efforts of Humanoids Publishing, please send US$15.00 via PayPal (https://www.paypal.com/) to [email protected]. This PDF requires the Metabarons Roleplaying Game Rule Book to play. You or your favorite local or Internet retailer can order the Metabarons Roleplaying Game Rule Book and other printed Metabarons supplements through Humanoids Publishing. You can find more information about ordering directly from Humanoids Publishing in the Games section of our Web site. The Metabarons and The Incal comic books and trade paperbacks are available at better comic and book stores around the world. For more information about these series or the roleplaying game and how to get them, please visit the Humanoids Publishing Web site, www.humanoids-publishing.com.

Conception and Development: Julien Blondel, Fred Le Berre, Kurt McClung, and Marc Prudhomme, with the participation of Alexandro Jodorowsky American Adaptation: Nikola Vrtis with Scott Palter Short Stories & Writing Direction: Fred Le Berre Continuity: Marc Prudhomme Coordination: Nadège Delbos and Kurt McClung. Design of Original Book: Régis Haghebaert, Stéphane Martinez, and David Panzo Graphic Conception: Régis Haghebaert, Virgnie Bréham, Christophe Bonneterre, Olivier Hug, and David Panzo. Layout & Manufacturing of Original Book: Nathalie Rocher PDF Design, Layout, & Creation: Nikola Vrtis Cover Art: Travis Charest Interior Illustrations in PDF: Cyril Adam (pp. 98, 104), Bernard Bittler (p. 95), Aleksi Briclot (pp. 94, 97), Juan Gimenez (pp. 8, 40, 44, 96, 144), Boris Golzio (pp. 62, 63, 152), Zoran Janjetov (pp. 37, 42, 54 upper), Thierry Masson (pp. 129, 130, 132 lower, 133, 135, 136), Mœbius (pp. 18, 30, 54 lower, 59, 117, 142, 145, 146, 149), Gérald Parel (p. 8), and Roberto Zoulie (pp. 132 upper, 134). Coloring: Studio Beltran, Guillaume Bessis, Philippe Guinot, Walter Le Brec, Agnès Moreau, and Pascal Pontoire. French Editing & Corrections: Sophie Lamotte, Ronan Le Breton, Antoine Pinchot, and Loïc Portnoë. English Tranlsations: Diane Bertrand, Justin Kelly, and Joan Wilchins English Editing: Rachelle Brissenden, Kurt McClung, and Nikola Vrtis

A big thank you to: Didier Gonord, Bruno Lecigne, Philippe Hauri and the Yéti Team.

French version developed and published by Yéti Entertainment S.A. English version developed and published by Humanoids in association with Yéti Entertainment S.A. The Metabarons and The Metabarons logo are trademarks of Les Humanoïdes Associés S.A., © 2003 (US & EU) Les Humanoïdes Associés, Geneva (Switzerland). Original Metabaron character created by Moebius® and Alexandro Jodorowsky. The D6 System game mechanics used herein are used with permission of Humanoids, Inc.

French First Printing March 2001. Printed in Spain. PDF Edition April 2003. PDF created in USA. T H E E M P I R E

Wonder of wonders, fruit of the eye of the Omphal, After the citizens of Paleo-Paris, in 1789’s great current this vast universe is richly inhabited. Indeed, the area of wrath and joyful regicide, had cast aside the political mapped out by the eager reach of humans, far beyond order that had controlled their destinies, the Dauphin Louis the bounds of the Milky Way (Terra Prima’s galaxy), XVII, son of Louis XVI and heir apparent to the throne of contains a wide assortment of races and peoples, most Paleo-France, became the pivotal focus for both supporters of them human, but some mutant and alien as well. and enemies of the monarchy. This second child of Louis These worlds, completely alien to one another, are XVI, became first the Duke of Normandy, then the Dau- united beneath the authority of the Empire, a colossal phin when his older brother died on June 4, 1789, and con- organization whose powers extend as far as its ships can sequently he was jailed in the Temple prison in August 1792. fly. The Empire boasts an armed force — the Endoguard; Official history maintains that he quickly succumbed to an an ever-present clergy with godlike technological powers onset of illness caused by poor hygienic conditions, perish- — the Techno-Pontificate, also known as the Techno- ing in the Temple on June 8, 1795. Of course questions Technos or the Church of the Industrial Saints (C.I.S.); were raised, and over the following decades, many claimed and a financial institution — the Ekonomat, which has that the true Dauphin had fled and was waiting for the right great influence over all economic transactions. Besides time to return and reclaim his rightful throne. Then again, these, two other groups carry considerable weight: the over the next several years, numerous self-proclaimed “Dau- Maganats and the Union of Planets, also known as “the phins” appeared, demanding to be granted titles, honors, Colonials.” A Maganat is any planet, group of planets, castles, and all the other normal trappings of kingship. As system, or even group of systems placed under total own- time passed, reliable witnesses to the events disappeared, ership and authority of a leading Noble House. By defini- but the mystery remained. Had the Dauphin died at the tion, the Maganats are loyal to the Empire, and Janus- Temple or not? Had he escaped? Or had he been murdered Jana is their leader. However, this apparent obedience does by a reactionary from a rival faction in order to prevent not rule out intrigue, which seems to be the criterion rather him from claiming his rights? than the exception. Depending on circumstances, these The questions were examined seriously. The body was Noble vassals either hold almost no power, or they pos- exhumed numerous times, but the experts’ reports all gave sess means tremendous enough to at least challenge the completely different and very surprising results. How Empire, although not to overpower it. The Colonials, on could the body of a ten-year-old child have measured 4'8", the other hand, are independent in appearance but re- or even 5'4"? The Dauphin’s heart, purloined by Doctor main more or less loyal to the Empire. Each one of the Pelletan during his autopsy, had passed all his tests and numerous Colonial planets is ruled by a “Kamar,” com- was now embalmed at the Paleo-Basilica of St. Denis. pletely independent of the concerns of the Imperial Court. Unfortunately, however, a relic cannot talk. It was not As for the Union of Planets, it includes two main branches, until the late twentieth century, with its understanding of which are themselves subdivided into clans. The first the mysteries of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), that the branch includes two major clans: the Troglosocialiks and questions which had held all the historians spellbound the Menscheviks. The second branch includes a wide ar- over the previous two centuries could finally be settled. ray of minor clans: the Ultra-Colonialists, the Super-Con- The verdict: the embalmed heart indeed belonged to a querors, the Troglo-Barbarians, the Poly-Schismatics, the son of Louis XVI. Comparative analysis carried out on Amico-Visitors, the Hyper-Putschists, the Trotsko-Revo- DNA of the living descendants of the Bourbons was de- lutionary Avatars, and the Proto-Nihiliks, to name just a finitive. Once again, the winds of oblivion did their work, few of the more prominent. and the mystery of the Dauphin who died in the Temple became no more than a curiosity for nostalgic historians. VERITABLE HISTORY OF But what was the truth of it? THE TRANS-BOURBON LINEAGE THE UNSUSPECTED MOTHER Janus-Jana, the illustrious Imperial Siamese couple, is The truth of it was this: at the dawn of the year 1795, the last of a line that dates back to the introduction of on a cold wet night at the end of winter, a citizen named royalty in the Kingdom of France, part of Terra Prima’s Amelie Ladoucette, former nursemaid to Louis XVI’s wife “Old World.” Indeed, when the Trans-Bourbon family Marie-Antoinette in the castle of Versailles, arrived at the acceded to the Imperial throne in the year 3499, Temple prison to switch her own son with the Dauphin. Rosemonde I the Rebis resumed the broken thread of the Of the four known attempts at substitution, this is the dynasty of magical monarchs, even though centuries had one that succeeded. To save the Dauphin, direct inheritor passed in the interval. Today’s Trans-Bourbon family, far of the miraculous power of divine essence of the kings of from being an Imperial offshoot springing suddenly from Paleo-France, Amelie Ladoucette consented to lie, to en- the void, can trace deep roots back to the royal breeding- dure taunts from corrupt guards, and above all, to sacri- ground of Terra Prima’s absolute monarchs. fice the son she cherished more than anything. Of course, this raises several new questions. Why then would DNA analysis of the embalmed heart have confirmed succes- Amelie Ladoucette was one of the many com- 5 • The Empire sion? Did she act alone, or were her actions inspired or mon women who expended enormous effort try- even masterminded by others? ing to bury the traces of their past, because any What is for certain is that the citizen Ladoucette must former servant to the Court would be an obvious sus- have been utterly convinced of the greater good of her ac- pect to those who hunted down counter-revolutionar- tions to consent to so many sacrifices. Presumably, since ies. Her instinct for survival would more likely have she had lived intimately with and tended to the royal fam- encouraged her to keep a low profile, and avoid con- ily, even serving as nursemaid to the children of the king flict by any means necessary in these difficult times. So and queen, she could well have been acting in response to a a guide would have to come to her to show her what to royal summons, which would have driven her to endure do. He came in the guise of a man of mature age, by no anything to ensure the perpetuation of the line. Since she means old, but already thoughtfully contemplating the had looked after Louis XVII from his infancy, she would threshold of life. He claimed to be a doctor, and in fact also have felt some maternal sentiment for him. But above was able to identify her complaint after only a brief ex- all, he was the son of the king, a man so far above her and amination. With a few gentle but very firm gestures, he yet so close, whom she had loved and given herself to. Amid brought the calm back to her feverish son’s face. He seemed the easy morals of life in Versailles, she had responded to to know all about her. She should have been afraid, but the needs of a sensual king, yielding to him during an em- the serenity he exuded inspired confidence. She was will- brace. This combination of facts explains her psychological ing to do anything for him, and he revealed to her that willingness to offer her own son in sac- she could do him a great service. Then, rifice. Amelie Ladoucette loved the King he told her his name: Michel de Nostre- as a husband and loved the King’s son, Golden Oil Dame. the Dauphin, as her own. While perusing the story “It has been written in the stars!” Moreover, as demonstrated by DNA of the Trans-Bourbons and he repeated constantly. In a pedantic analysis 200 years later, the son she sac- their legendary lineage, some tone, he would continue: “My precious rificed in order to spare the Dauphin may be surprised to learn of child, the conjunctions tell us it must was in fact an illegitimate child of the Rosemonde I the Rebis’s ex- be so in order for great work to occur. King, and of the same age. Thus, an- ceptional longevity. For The young Dauphin is intended for the other mystery is explained. The child’s Rosemonde I the Rebis only throne, but the history of mankind is corpse in the Temple, whose heart receded his throne after hav- inconstant. However, he must rule at mained for centuries in its hiding place ing exercised his power and any cost. I cannot tell you more, but at the St. Denis Basilica, may not have influence for almost 10,000 be aware that he has been awaited for been the Dauphin destined to take the years. However, when look- all eternity, and that humanity is de- throne and continue the line, but he had ing attentively at the genesis pending on you to ensure that one day indeed descended from the king. Inci- of this extraordinary family, he may take his rightful place.…” dentally, the fact that she knew and the consequence of Michel de She may not have understood all of loved the Dauphin, and had a son the Nostre-Dame’s great act be- the alchemist’s plans, but Amelie same age, were other factors which comes quite obvious. Ladoucette was convinced. She would probably made it easier for her to be- Nostre-Dame, who make the exchange. She was commit- come an instrument of destiny by per- was Rosemonde’s mentor ted, and would sacrifice her son for the forming the sacrifice. and founder, plunged endeavor. On the eve of the day she would visit the Temple to recover the MICHEL DE NOSTRE-DAME Rosemonde into Golden Oil, the alchemic fruit of the young Dauphin, Michel de Nostre- But one other factor contributed to Philosopher’s Stone, whose Dame (also known as Nostradamus) things turning out precisely the way they miraculous virtues procure spent the day inside, preparing long did. The Dauphin’s half-brother might exceptional wealth, health, lists of symbols and making cabalistic have seemed just as adequate a substi- and youth for those sub- diagrams, all of them confirming his tute. As far as the affairs of the King- merged within it. Handed intuitions. At the end of the night, he dom go, that’s doubtlessly true. But the down through his spirit’s wrote a new quatrain in his notebook, Dauphin possessed a unique character- flesh and blood, these leg- entitled “The Centuries”: istic, a genetic oddity that made him a endary virtues are perpetu- long-awaited “Chosen One” to fulfill a ated in his descendants (Im- OUT OF THE TEMPLE, BORN IN GLORY grand plan. Louis XVII, the Dauphin, perial couples, twins, broth- UNATTAINED, was a hermaphrodite. ers/sisters, mothers/fathers) STATELY, AND BY OINT OF HOLY OIL, SOON Who, then, could have been so in- who owe their existence, en- SUBLIME terested in one of nature’s whims? Who during several thousands of SHEATHED IN GOLD, AS CENTURIES PASS could have attached such importance years, to the Philosopher’s HIM BY, to a young victim of sexual deformity? Stone. DAUPHIN WILL BE REBIS: ANOTHER, YET And who had the ability to pursue this THE SAME. goal across the centuries? the bottomless pits on the island of Sumatra in the Sonde THE CONSCIOUSNESS OF CENTURIES Isles at the ends of the Indian Ocean, a retreat he had In the year 1795, Nostradamus was 292 years converted to his cause in order to carry out the training. old. Accomplished alchemist, high initiate to the mys- The Dauphin’s training lasted 47 years, which seemed but teries of the Egyptian doctrines, he had accomplished an instant to the old country doctor so far from his native much of his greatest work during the course of his origi- land. Upon completion of his training, Louis the Dau- nal lifetime. But he had quested ever farther, passing be- phin, now Rosemonde the Rebis, had nothing at all in yond the boundaries set by his brotherhood and, in a common with a child born in Paleo-France at the end of Chapter 1 • 6 sublime transmutation that went beyond all the limits of the eighteenth century. His wisdom stretched far beyond the philosopher’s stone, he created the Golden Oil, a per- what was known within his century. His mastery of the fect composite of the purest materials. His discovery made real and arcane, of cause and effect, was such as only one him an outcast not only from society, but also from time who had lived a hundred lifetimes could possess. But more itself. He was now a strange anomaly with an endless thirst importantly, He had the ability to put His will into effect. for knowledge, traversing the centuries unmindful of the He was now ready. Michel de Nostre-Dame judged that passing days and years. For among the thousand virtues of his work was complete. In 1842, he submerged the Golden Oil was its ability to confer not eternal youth, Rosemonde in a bath of Golden Oil at the heart of the but great longevity. hermetically sealed capsule in which He would traverse Thus, Nostradamus had plenty of spare time to devote eternity. The Supreme Ruler waited in silence, ready to to his studies. He returned to the oldest and most arcane offer himself to the world. Before devoting himself to the sources of human knowledge on Terra Prima, from the joys of a meditative twilight, Michel de Nostre-Dame times in which humanity had conversed with the Ancients. undertook a final task: he wove a thousand mythical sto- Quite naturally, he had the idea of becoming an agent of ries and chronicles, which announced the coming of a new divinity himself, in order to sway the world’s path, to make Empire for humankind. an influence over the crazed course of a civilization lost in the stars. He just had to find his crystal that he would one THE FOUNDATIONS OF THE EMPIRE day offer to the world, a prism-being he could polish, In 2986, the Sixth World War left no winner or loser, nourish, and make grow. The Golden Oil would be the just a pile of ash and ruin. With the majority of its popu- cocoon; he just needed a chrysalis. lation decimated by the tragedy of nuclear fire, Terra Prima According to the mystical ancient order Rosae Crucis was at last ready to receive the one whose lineage guaran- — taught to him by Christian Rosenkreutz during his train- teed Him the throne: the Chosen One, perfect thanks to ing in medicine — the school of Egyptian mysticism had His double nature, and eternally glorious, thanks to His always prophesied that a sublime male-female being would training. While the Dauphin-Rebis slept, Nostradamus one day become Supreme Ruler and prepared the world for His coming govern the universe. News that the from his secret lair. For almost 20 cen- Dauphin, heir to the House of France, The Perfect turies, he had traced powerful and was a hermaphrodite, could not fail to Androgyne mystical vectors that had put the hope interest him. Was he the one destined From the archives of the of His arrival into the hearts of people. to rule the world? Nostradamus could galactic human Empire. He had been heralded and so was only find out by approaching Amelie “Historical Documents” awaited. Ladoucette, for she was the only per- section, “Apocryphal The era’s troubles had reached a cul- son who had the ability to replace the Texts” subsection, “Proph- minating point with the near-extinc- Dauphin with a child she knew well. ecy” division: “...For it is tion of all life. Humanity thirsted for As soon as Nostradamus held the Dau- told that He-She who only one thing: salvation. The coali- phin in his hands, he thanked and paid unites the qualities of Man tion of armed forces, having obtained the helpful woman, then shut himself and Woman, He-She who their claim to rule the planet’s rubble off with the child to verify the signs. will be the Sacred An- in the blaze of combat, gave a warm There was no doubt about his double drogyne, the Perfect Being welcome to this new candidate who sex organ. His elegant, childlike face endowed with all qualities was not only from a true dynasty but was a blend of feminine softness with of Father and Mother, shall who left a powerful residue of miracles angelic good looks. He was clearly the rule forever, and guide hu- in His wake. The doors of power latest descendant of a royal line, which manity towards its destiny opened wide before Him. imbued his genes with a measure of with a Divine Hand.” –Text The early years of the reign of perfection. If raised with the proper in ancient language of Rosemonde I the Rebis were restless rites and precepts, the male-female child Terra Prima, attributed to and chaotic. Old enmities remained, would only blossom and take on a the human seer Aptisto, and a number of rival factions used this never-before-imagined role in human who lived in the period of shift in power as an opportunity to re- history. chaos following the Sixth new their actions. But the training of Without wasting an instant, World War. Michel de Nostre-Dame had borne Nostradamus secreted the Dauphin far fruit; among His many other qualities, away, to the Burubudur temple beside Rosemonde was firm. Certain Noble Houses, and not minor ones, learned that at their expense. Making an example of them did the rest, and in less than world another doubly endowed Chosen One, 7 • The Empire three decades, all the institutions of this divided feudal another Sacred Androgyne. But whether by world had pledged their allegiance to the new Emperor. nature’s whim, genetic mishap, or Imperial error, it But the power of terror does not solve everything on its was male and female Siamese twins that He brought own, and so Rosemonde I the Rebis introduced a ritual into the world. Joined at the torso, the new Siamese that still exists today — creating a powerful yet subtle Emperors Artaran and Marlana received training be- bond that would link the Emperor and His subjects. Once fitting the destiny of those who would one day take the administrative arm of the House of Trans-Bourbon the reins of an Empire that expanded every moment. had inventoried, surveyed, and appraised all the fiefs to But their training was a long and arduous path, fraught the Crown, the Imperial Office of Titles and Deeds redis- with many difficulties. The Siamese brother and sister, tributed them among any families prepared to swear an condemned by nature to a life of intolerable proximity, oath of personal fealty to Rosemonde I the Rebis. During both had raging tempers. Between them they brought a sumptuous ceremony of spiritual fervor followed by strict new meaning to the word “chaos.” Their days were noth- solemnity, the Supreme Ruler named Himself ing but a long succession of fighting. The sight of their “Emperoress” and bequeathed His vassals with a medal- sexually opposite double was a torture just as unbearable lion containing a drop of the holy Golden Oil as a sign of for both of them. Their hands were tied, for fear that they their position in the Nobility. Much later, after human- would murder each other. But they managed to summon kind had spread across the whole cosmos, those medal- the strength to bite each other furiously in the face, and lions remained objects of inestimable value, of course re- tear chunks out with cries of horrible pain, because both vered by the descendents of the founders of the Noble of them felt equally the harm they were inflicting on each Houses, but admired more widely by all. other. Soon, their faces were just tatters, covered in Later in the reign of the first of the Trans-Bourbons, Netranekkon and gold alloy poultices. They raged end- once Imperial Authority was recognized everywhere and lessly, burning with seemingly implacable hatred. During undisputed throughout, Rosemonde gave the order to con- moments of clarity, they were able to rule the Empire with quer first the galaxy, and then the entire cosmos. He Him- reasonable tranquility, but calm would quickly give way self set things in motion in the year 4503 by transferring to the storm, and they would renew their cycles of un- the seat of Imperial power to the Golden Planet. At the thinking rage. At that point they had to be locked away same time, He instructed the largest and most powerful within an armored room in the deepest heart of the Golden Houses to go forth and conquer the breadth of the uni- Planet, to prevent their violent tempers from disrupting verse, in His name and for His glory. Indeed, conquest everything. and the expansion of the human universe became the hall- No official rite marked the succession of Rosemonde I mark of the era of Rosemonde I the Rebis. Before His the Rebis to Artaran and Marlana. No declaration or de- reign, humans dreamed only of exploring the boundaries cision was made. Nothing about the event made it appear of their solar system. Beneath His rule, the whole galaxy even slightly out of the ordinary. One day, Rosemonde suddenly seemed too small. Adventurous Houses set off simply disappeared and was replaced by the screaming to carve out galactic fiefdoms vaster than solar systems, Siamese twins. Their status as heirs to the throne was well and ever hardier explorers soon thrust beyond the bounds known. So when they assumed power after the First of of the Milky Way. Of course there were conflicts at the the Trans-Bourbons had vanished into thin air, nothing boundary, and invasions from outside, but also conspira- was made of it, as if everything was absolutely normal. cies and continual struggles for power within the very bo- No trace of Rosemonde was ever found, and His disap- som of the Empire. At the same time, the dispersion of pearance remains one of the Empire’s great mysteries. But the Great Houses across the endless universe allowed en- since Artaran and Marlana did not seem concerned, life tirely new ways of life to flourish, leading to a variety of followed its course. And nobody asked even the slightest customs, and a strong “folk” tradition within the overall question. Federal mosaic. But the absolute personal power of the Emperoress was the centralizing force of the Empire He THE EXPANSION OF THE LEGACY embodied, permitting differences to be smoothed over, too- The 11233 years of Artaran and Marlana’s reign were lofty ambitions to be brought down, and humankind’s without a doubt the most chaotic years in the Dynasty of cohesion to be guaranteed during its march of expansion. the Trans-Bourbons. From the very beginning, their Em- Despite some difficulties, Rosemonde the Rebis was the pire had to repel the increasingly frequent galacto-bar- uncontested master over the Empire He ruled with an iron baric raids on its borders. The expansion of human civili- hand, with full support from the four Great Pillars: the zation was nothing but an uninterrupted succession of Techno-Pontificate, the Ekonomat, the Nobility, and the battles in concentric rings expanding out from the heart Union of Planets. of the Empire. The Great Houses dedicated themselves to the evils of merciless battle in order to obtain new privi- THE BLOOD LEGACY leges, the Great Pillars themselves harbored a climate of The reign of Rosemonde I the Rebis lasted exactly 8499 internal struggle, and the Endoguard fought to protect years, ending in 11998. He used His hermaphroditic quali- the Empire from ever more powerful alien hordes. The ties to fertilize himself, with the goal of bringing to the situation culminated in 17789 when the Imperial Couple fled to a parallel universe to escape takeover by an exterior force of indomitable power. Their retreat lasted for almost six millennia, until new convulsions wracked the universe, once again changing the circumstances. Surprisingly, the Empire emerged stronger from this long period of upheaval. Alien occupation and the rav- Chapter 1 • 8 ages of perpetual war at the border had the effect of drawing the various internal factions closer together, at least superficially, and the concept of a united Empire was reinforced. But the same events had a different effect as far as Imperial power goes. Indeed, the delicate bond that united the Golden Planet to the group of humans spread throughout the galaxy was somewhat shaken by the escape of the ill-behaved Siamese twins. To be sure, none dared speak of treason, but a feeling of abandon- ment pervaded. So on the one hand, the shattered mosaic that was the Empire found even greater reason to see itself as a unified whole, and on the other, the authority that was supposed to act as the central nervous system of the whole assemblage was showing unmistakable signs of weakness. At that point, the political genius of the Trans-Bour- bons, forged in the crucible of Nostradamus’ ancient wisdom, showed its full scope. Having just returned from their parallel universe, Artaran and Marlana did not throw themselves blindly into brutally reseizing power over the four Pillars. Instead, they announced that they were abdi- cating the throne in favor of Magaella and Magellan, the male and female twins they had sired. This surprise announcement yielded a double benefit: It made everyone forget the mystery surrounding Artaran and Marlana’s departure and their sojourn in an invisible and inaccessible realm; at the same time, it distracted attention from the distressing fact that the new Imperial Couple did not even slightly resemble a Sacred Androgyne. Although Magaella and Magellan were a dual entity from the same egg, they were nonetheless distinct and separate beings. With the male heir standing separate from the female heir, the idea of a divine union lost its potency. But the sudden announcement and the new Imperial Couple’s charm quickly put all those concerns to rest. In 23231, Magaella and Magellan officially took the destiny of the Trans-Bour- bon Empire into their hands. As was the case 11233 standard years earlier, their progenitors vanished quite suddenly without any ceremony, and more notably, left neither trace nor witness behind. At long last, a time of change and rebuilding had come. And rebuild they did, from top to bottom. A few of the four Pillars were forced to make amends and pledge their allegiance once more, on pain of dissolution. The delicate balance between the components of the Empire had been shaken, but an outline of the Imperial Order we know today gradually emerged. Mysticism gave way to material might, military force, and technology. With peace restored, the human universe began another cycle of development and prosperity. Conquests multiplied, carrying the banner of the Trans-Bourbons ever farther. Then, just as now, even if Imperial law is still not obeyed everywhere, for lack of 9 • The Empire Timeline of Key Events 1795 - Exchange of Louis XVII and foundation of the Trans-Bourbons line. 2986 - Sixth World War. 3000 - Departure from Terra Prima. Colonization of the solar system. Paleo-gravitatioal Era 3499 - Crowning of Rosemonde the 1st, the Rebis, Emperor of the galaxy. End of the Democratic Tyrany. 3500 - Biological Revolution: Beginning of the Universal Colonization. Biological Era. 4500 - The Imperial Court moves to the Golden Planet. Development of the Techno-Guild. 6000 - First great galacto-barbarian invasion. Development of the Colonial Houses. 11998 - Birth of Artaran and Marlana, the children of Rosemonde I. 12000 - 2nd great galacto-barbarian invasion. 13500 - Cataclysm caused by the rupture of the ice borders. Discovery of parallel universes. 13612 - First contacts and the adherence of the Empire to the Confederation of Parallel Universes. 13626 - Birth of the Non-Baron Dayal de Castaka. 13628 - Birth of the Mono-Duchess Antigréa de Castaka. 13637 - Our universe officially joins the Confederation of Parallel Universes. Post-logic Era. 13645 - Birth of Myrtha and Narda. 13651 - The Techno-Guild discovers Central Planet and becomes the pan-Techno Church. 13652 - Destruction of the planet Ahour, original Castaka home. 13660 - Arrival of surviving members of the Castaka clan to the planet Marmola. Death of the Mono- Duchess Antigréa de Castaka. Contact with the Gargale Gangez, and disappearance of the epiphyte cavern. 17789 - Third great galacto-barbarian invasion lead by aliens. 17790 - Escape of the Imperial Couple to their cousins of the parallel universes. 5000 long years of continuous troubles. 23124 - First use of the Tri-H bomb and the end of the Pan-barbarian War. 23126 - Capture of power by the Techno-Technos. Fanatical Era. 23231 - Crowning of Magaella and Magellan, the new Trans-Bourbon Emperors. 23232 - The Techno-Technos are removed from political power circles. 23510 - The Church of Industrial Saints (C.I.S.) becomes the official cult of the Human Empire. 23511 - Secession between the Techno-Pope and the Techno-Popess. Creation of the Shabda-Oud order. 23772 - The Techno-Technos finish the construction of the “Great Network.” 24000/29892 - Colonization to the borders of the universe. 29820 - Birth of Non-Baron Berard de Castaka. 29857 - Birth of Metabaron Othon von Salza. 29861 - Birth of Edna Berard de Castaka. 29872 - Birth of Honorata. 29876 - Birth of Barri de Castaka. 29892 - Death of Non-Baron Berard de Castaka. Death of Edna Berard de Castaka. Battle of Marmolla. The Human Empire learns of epiphyte. The Human Universe enters the Anti-G Era. Arrival of survivors of the Castaka clan on the planet Okhar. Death of Barri de Castaka. Construction of the Metacraft. 29893 - Birth of Metabaron Aghnar von Salza. 29899 - Birth of the Supra-Princess Oda the Capricious. 29900 - Construction of the Metabunker. Destruction of the planet Okhar. The Metabaron Othon and his son, Aghnar, take refuge on the planet Perdita. 29913 - Death of the Metabaron Othon von Salza. Destruction of the Shabda-oud order by the Metabaron Aghnar. 29918 - Death of the Supra-Princess Oda, but reincarnated by Honorata. 29919 - Birth of the Metabaron Steelhead. 29931 - Birth of Doña Vicenta Gabriela de Rokha. 29951 - Immemorial combat between the Metabaron Aghnar and Steelhead, followed by the death of Aghnarand Honorata. 29952 - The Metabaron Steelhead becomes Melmoth de Castaka. Birth of the Metabaron Aghorha de Castaka and the cast of Castaka. Death of Doña Vicenta Gabriela de Rokha. 29969 - Death of the Metabaron Steelhead. 29970 - Birth of the current Metabaron, who has no name. 29989 - Death of the Metabaron Aghorha de Castaka. 30000 - Current epoc. enforcers, the Empire nonetheless can THE EXERCISE & STRUCTURE OF make its intentions felt throughout the mass of IMPERIAL POWER galaxies that make up the universe. Even black holes perceived in the farthest distance by telescopes are Although the power of the Emperoress is not, strictly claimed for the Empire, just as long ago, on Terra Prima, speaking, of divine essence, it undeniably bears a certain the new lands across the seas were claimed by the mon- super-human aspect, if only by virtue of the prophecy from archs who owned the largest navies. the dawn of time which foretold the coming of a perfect Magaella and Magellan’s era will forever be remem- double being who would rule over the entirety of worlds.

Chapter 1 • 10 bered as the era of riches and technological marvels. This prophecy was so widely known that even the In spite of its return to favor through diplomatic means, witches of the Shabda-Oud devised an ambitious and Ma- the Techno-Pontificate continued to shroud its activi- chiavellian plot, ordering one of their number, the exquisite ties in mystery. Nonetheless, it also continued to make Honorata, to bear a hermaphroditic child to be proclaimed colossal and decisive contributions to the Imperial arse- “Sacred Androgyne, Emperoress of the galaxy.” However, nal. The Endoguard’s supremacy in space owed much to their plan was doomed to fail, simply because Honorata’s the technological marvels of the Techno-Technos. In that love for Othon, the first Metabaron, compelled her to respect, the discovery of epyphite is a perfect example of choose to give him a son rather than a child of double the state of the Human Empire of that time. Never had sex. But the Shabda-Oud did not give up quietly. Far from any faction been so powerful (powerful to the point of being discouraged by their initial setback, they contrived open rebellion against the Imperial Couple), never had another plot. This time it would involve combining Oda’s opulence been so apparent everywhere, never had the genes with those of their god, Jejoh the perfect, to give thirst for riches been so keen, never had the promises of birth to a hermaphroditic Chosen One who would de- tomorrow been so glorious and numerous, and never had throne Janus-Jana and confer supreme power to the or- conspiracies been woven with so much fervor. It was at der of Whore-Priestesses. This second attempt also met that time, in one of the extremely short periods in an with failure. Still, the perseverance they showed demon- alternating cycle of joy and tragedy that Magaella and strates how the Sacred Androgyne’s power is envied by Magellan, the Imperial twins, met their death. In 31184 all. With that in mind, it is easy to imagine that the witches to be precise, after the epyphite discovered in 29892 had of the Shabda-Oud were not the only ones to expend such increased their already immeasurable power, after the joy efforts, and that other clans and interested parties plotted of childbirth had been granted them, after they had man- in the shadows to produce their own hermaphroditic Cho- aged to repel the merciless Pthagurean attack, their lives sen One in their quest for supreme power. were brutally taken. To this day, they are the only repre- Utterly isolated in His-Her palace on the Golden Planet, sentatives of the Trans-Bourbon line for whom formal the Emperoress reigns as absolute ruler over the whole proof of actual death exists. human galaxy. With a dictatorial temperament, He-She And thus, a new era was born. grants audiences in an immense throne room whose floor and walls are completely covered in fine gold. His-Her IN OUR TIME… word is law, and His-Her decisions irrevocable. In one After that, the Emperoress Janus-Jana became ruler of instant, He-She can decide the fate of a person, a race, a the Empire. Fruit of the union between one of Empress whole system, or even a galaxy. He-She not only holds Magaella’s ova and one of Emperor Magellan’s sterile but embodies power, and His-Her life is a constant battle sperm, Janus-Jana was brought into the world by thirty to maintain it. Since His-Her accession, the Human Uni- years of tireless work by the whole army of surgeon-ro- verse has never been so mighty, and yet never so divided bots and human doctors of the Hospital Planet. Superior either. Using the isolation of their distant territories to mutant, a sublime combination of male heir and female their advantage, the larger Noble Houses have accumu- heir, Janus-Jana was a Siamese twin, man and woman lated tremendous military strength, of course still not joined at the neck and shoulders. In that respect, He-She mighty enough to challenge the Endoguard, but nonethe- carried on the mystical tradition of the Trans-Bourbons, less of sufficient potency to give pause and bring consid- by approaching the original ideal of the first Dauphin. erable weight to the strategic balance. Quite fortunately All the same, Janus-Jana did not even slightly suspect that for Janus-Jana, the Houses continually dispute among He-She would never attain the sacred ideal of a union themselves and therefore remain utterly incapable of join- that combined the double aspect of male and female in ing forces to overthrow Him-Her. The High Council of one perfectly realized being. Janus-Jana was not the Sa- Nobles is not an upper-class salon where subdued remarks cred Androgyne. However, He-She was no ordinary hu- are exchanged among people of good company. Instead, man either. As the last of the line, He-She was the bearer it is more frequently a hotbed of open conflict. of ancient wisdom and the possessor of immense power. Despite His-Her illustrious ascendancy, Janus-Jana also After Magaella and Magellan had their minds devoured boasts a legitimacy much more solid than mere prophecy. by brain-eating vampires from interspace, the Emperoress By right, He-She is the direct descendant of the Imperial became master of all the galaxies. Since then, sealed off Couple, and no practical-minded person would dare to from the human world by a protective egg, Janus-Jana openly challenge the situation as it now stands. However, rules the universe. at a time when power-hungry factions are secretly lending their support to incessant wars, His-Her birthright does not protect Him-Her from intrigue, or the risk of timated. Not only do his remarks always dem- 11 • The Universe impeachment. But in order to preserve the throne, He- onstrate a good deal of common sense, but he She can count on the immediate assistance of an inner also manages, by his bold exploits, to defuse tense circle of allies, otherwise known as the Council. situations by bringing the hypocrisy of the courtesans to light, and he can snare even the most sophisticated THE COUNCIL in the trap of their own petty arguments.

HEAD OF IMPERIAL PROTOCOL, THE CIRCLE OF IMPERIAL MENTREKS NEO-JESTER VICO DA SANGLE A closed and extremely secret occult group, the Circle of Imperial Mentreks do not have any direct influence Private councilor to the Emperoress, under the title of over the Empire, but their strategic impact is so great Head of Imperial Protocol, Vico da Sangle holds an envi- that their mark is found on most decisions of able position of strategic power in the bosom of the Em- multigalactic scope. They influence Imperial policy with pire. He boasts no particular prerogatives, but nonethe- their advice and counsel. If prognostic analysis allows them less takes full advantage of his control over rules of de- to demonstrate a specific interest in carrying out a force- corum. Never has there been a man at Court more famil- ful strike in any given zone of the universe, their recom- iar with the rules of etiquette, and it has happened more mendations invariably lead to action. The Endoguard pres- than once that a haughty representative of a Noble House ence in a particular sector is increased, peace-keeping has been forced to swallow his pride in the face of da missions are undertaken, surveillance of the Empire’s en- Sangle’s demands. On matters of customs and rites, Ja- emies is carried out, and any faction headed for potential nus-Jana always defers to his judgment and often imme- rebellion is quickly subjugated. “Good government is good diately endorses any new rules of etiquette that da Sangle planning,” the old saying goes, and planning is precisely invents without hesitation, since their only aim is to am- what the Circle of Imperial Mentreks contribute to Ja- plify His-Her grandeur even more. At the same time, Vico nus-Jana. To be sure, none of the Mentreks are endowed da Sangle knows how to curry the Im- with clairvoyance, but the accuracy of perial favor. His greatest strength, the their prognostic analyses make them secret asset that grants him the right to indispensable to anyone who wishes Janus-Jana’s ear, is his ability to make The Dehuman- to clearly understand the tangled skein people laugh. For Vico da Sangle is a ization of the peerless acrobat and a juggler more Mentreks of the threads of possibility. All in all, skilled than any the human galaxy has The Mentreks’ formation they provide a rational framework for ever seen. In his dexterous hands, some process involves, in addition Imperial decisions. twenty rubber balls might fly by and to games and simulations In terms of the structure of their rapidly rebound, seemingly possessed aimed at increasing each clan, the Circle of Imperial Mentreks with a life of their own. His extraordi- individual’s potential ten- is only the tip of the iceberg. Indeed, nary routines literally astound anyone fold, the removal of the por- these few visible members draw upon who has the good fortune to witness tion of the brain that man- support from a much larger group, a them. The graceful arcs he describes ages purely human reactions vast college of more than a thousand through the air, his well-timed tumbles and sensations to exterior Mentreks who contemplate an infinite and reckless acrobatics, are immensely stimuli. Once created, number of problems, within the serene fascinating and also very relaxing. Mentreks think and react silence of their lair. The ten oldest and He frequently offers his opinion on a like machines — probability most esteemed Mentreks, the members number of issues and provides advice computers who serve as the of the Circle, eliminate the tangential in the guise of short poems, which he Emperoress’s logistical arm. considerations in order to convey a sings out while performing his tricks be- However, numerous acciden- condensed synthesis of their analysis fore an audience eager for his talents. tal incidents and omissions to Janus-Jana, who immediately trans- He doesn’t involve himself in strategy have resulted from the lates it into action. Thanks to their but instead is content to keep his finger Mentrek’s purely technical role, the ten Mentreks of the Circle are on the pulse of the galaxy. As an ex- decision-making process. For honorary members of the Court. In- ample, see the margin on pages 28–29, example, a Mentrek in deed, is there any courtesan who hasn’t which is a complete transcription of re- charge of evaluating an ex- seen their thin silhouettes slowly tra- marks exchanged during the course of pedition for the confines may versing the corridors of the Golden an audience given by Janus-Jana in the thoroughly go over and Palace? They are permitted certain Golden Palace (recorded by the Skribb elaborate every last technical privileges by their status. Their habits sub-program, authorization number detail for the expedition, and little eccentricities are tolerated. 359tek55862). while forgetting to foresee One of them, who lived to the age of Despite the role of jester he plays be- the necessary essentials for 275 standard years, a lifespan that fore the Court with light and seemingly the bio-passengers. stands unmatched to this day, will be unconcerned tones, Vico da Sangle’s in- renowned throughout history for his fluence must above all not be underes- gluttony. To satisfy his cravings, the Imperial House regu- tire universe and doubtlessly the most powerful. The door- larly shipped in large quantities of sugary tu- ways of divination were opened to him by the insertion mors that grow on the faces of inhabitants of a of 78 metallic panels into his brain. Each panel has been tiny planet in a faraway sub-system, said to be true tipped with a drop of holy Golden Oil, which augments delicacies. But such exceptions are rare, and the his neural hyper-conductivity and gives him access to al- lifestyle within the College itself is much more monk- ternate temporal dimensions. Of course, the installation like. The thousand Mentreks who work there are the of the implants was a delicate and dangerous process, but undisputed elite of their clan. Their value, graded on once Goyo-Vah’s brain managed to overcome the shock, a new dimension spread its arms before him. Chapter 1 • 12 the FishKarov scale, reaches unsurpassed limits. Their astounding capacity for analysis is far beyond the abili- Since that time, he exists simultaneously on two levels ties of humans. of reality. In terms of perception, he sees, hears, and feels Since the Mentreks exist only for the exercise of their all that everyone else can see, hear, and feel. But he also intellect, some of them have developed an excessive taste discerns an almost superimposed second layer, which fil- for indirect action, for subtle combinations on various ters his perception of the present by tinting it with tones levels, or for any practical application of the domino ef- of the future. What will be, or what could be, appears fect. The Mentreks of the College, even the Mentreks of before him. The various colors of the spectrum correspond the Inner Circle, are dissatisfied with their classification to the different Arcana, and their intensity is proportional and are aware that elsewhere in the universe, other less to the probability of their occurrence. The readings de- formidable Mentreks under contract to well-reputed pend on individual interpretation, but a true craftsman Houses enjoy the luxury of being able to put their strata- can easily translate these impressions and supra-sensory gems into practice. Sometimes, therefore, the Mentreks readings into tangible facts. of the College succumb to certain attempts of undue in- Goyo-Vah uses two principal methods to determine a fluence, such as the introduction of new parameters to a course of events. Continually, instant by instant, the pos- given premise. This is not for the sake of personal ambi- sible outcomes of all situations he sees, reads, and imag- tion, but for the love of highly developed combinations, ines, including those that are brought before him, imper- for the beauty of perfectly executed complex plans, and ceptibly impose themselves onto the mass of information the self-serving pleasure of secretly undermining a plot of contained in his unconscious mind. If he fixes his mind one of their brother Mentreks. Clearly, although the on one detail, he can probe all its facets at his leisure, and Mentreks’ loyalty to the Empire is absolutely unquestion- identify the chances of seeing it develop within a specific able, their taste for intellectual competition can risk be- context to a very slim margin of error. On the other hand, coming too intense. Goyo-Vah can also immerse himself in a deeper and more thorough study of a group of facts. It’s GOYO-VAH, not unusual for Janus-Jana to bring THE NEO-TAROLOGIST The Neo- him the results of His-Her Mentreks’ analysis, so he can pass them through Another mysterious character is Tarologists the screen of his own predictive Goyo-Vah, who plays a discreet but Though the names of the method. In either case, whether he pro- pivotal role in the Court. This shadowy four Neo-Tarologists are vides intuitive flashes or meticulous ex- advisor to Janus-Jana is the only living known, these exceptional be- trapolations, Goyo-Vah is a valuable person whose remarks have ever im- ings remain for the most part asset that the Emperoress would not pelled the Emperoress to rethink a po- as inaccessible as the Techno- know how to do without. sition or even reverse a decision, indeed Technos’ jealously guarded Of course, the reading of the Arcana even making amends. Of the primary secrets. Thus, the illustrious is not infallible. Absolute prescience is circle of councilors, only Goyo-Vah’s Goyo-Vah, cloistered on not Goyo-Vah’s gift, and it sometimes words carry a powerful and almost su- Golden Planet, and occurs that reality stubbornly refuses pernatural aura, which commands obe- Occiputal-Cogito, protected to follow the path it should. That pos- dience. In short, if Vico da Sangle’s by the impenetrable Central sibility is even more likely given a situ- function is to entertain while creating Planet defense systems, are ation with a large number of un- a screen that filters out the unwanted, cut off from all contact with knowns, or when the parameters in and if the function of the Circle of Im- humanity. It is possible to ap- question are complex or poorly corre- perial Mentreks is to evaluate, specu- proach Raymonde and the lated. For in the underhanded battles late, and analytically justify the valid- Ruby, who sells her divinatory between the powers of the Empire, ity of Imperial strategies, Goyo-Vah’s services to the elite of the many situations are murky. But aside role is to bring a flash of clarity to any Archi-nobles at prohibitive from these pitfalls and gray areas where clouded situation. prices, but only Renovalh, the the outlines of the future are not at all Trained in the subtle arts of Paleo- entity deified by the mutants clear, Goyo-Vah’s visions provide an Tarot and Grandmaster of the Arcana on Planet Novahl-Ré, can still idea of the direction in which the of Neo-Tarot, Goyo-Vah is one of the be approached by common course of things may flow. four known Neo-Tarologists in the en- mortals. HE OLDEN ALACE T G P 13 • The Universe several occasions. First Erected atop the highest point of the Impregnable Golden Planet came Othon, who eliminated Golden Planet’s level surface, the the Imperial Couple’s private The aura of terror and mys- Golden Palace is a splendid and mas- guard before clearing a path tery that suffuses Golden sive golden edifice that stretches its through the door’s supposedly in- Planet is not just due to its proud colonnades up towards the infi- destructible mass with a simple ges- superstitious population and nite cosmos. Located in the center of a ture that summoned a burst of pure their sense of mysticism. vast golden court made of thirty-foot- energy capable of detonating a There exists a more concrete wide square slabs, the palace houses a planet. Later, Steelhead unleashed explanation. Reputed to be throne room for the Emperoress to absolutely incomprehensible forces unassailable and impen- grant audiences and an infinite amount in order to create the Golden Flower. etrable, the political and ad- of chambers dedicated to various pur- Acting under an irresistible current, ministrative heart of the Em- suits. Beneath the court and the audi- the whole top portion of the Golden pire is surrounded by nine ence hall, as if embedded in this pre- Planet split open to reveal a crown of satellites — artificial and cious golden jewel, lie the Emperoress’s eight petals, which spread like a young semi-artificial — each con- private apartments, as well as a private blossom under a sun’s warm caress. No taining a veritable arsenal of hearing room, with occasional privilege hull or shield could resist it. Then, radar, sensors, probes, and fre- of entry granted only to a few rare Steelhead directed his effort down- quency emitters that perma- councilors. A veritable golden cathedral wards, making a shaft in the ground nently sweep a security perim- supported by massive pillars, the audi- that tunneled to the very depths of the eter around the planet that is ence hall has a wide circle of light gold palace’s inviolable heart. several thousand light years in its center, set within a seven-pointed The day of the Golden Flower would wide. This barrier prohibits all dark gold star. The tip of one of the remain forever in memory as the day classical means of space-flight points marks the entrance to the hall. of the greatest imaginable affront to approach and landing, and On each side of the hall, long rows of the Empire, but paradoxically also a equally scans the parallel di- terraces accommodate the thousands of day that strengthened the unspoken mensions, in order to prevent courtesans who attend the Imperial au- and almost spiritual bond between the any threat that could be meta- diences every day. The Imperial throne Emperoress and the Metabaron, great- human in nature. An imme- sits between the two points of the star est of all His-Her warriors. diate sanction of pure and that face the entrance. It is a platform Beneath the palace runs an immense simple destruction is ordered reached by climbing three long flights and almost unnavigable network of for all intrusions unautho- of stairs, topped by a huge triangular corridors, galleries, and passageways. rized by Imperial mandate. structure, which holds Janus-Jana’s pro- They provide access to the apartments tective egg. Here beats the heart of the of nobles allowed at Court; to service Empire, where all Imperial decisions are buildings where armies of robo-ser- made, and from whence the Endoguard vants, robo-cooks, and robo-chamber- sets out to bear the colors of the Empire across the whole maids bustle about; to the quarters of the Supreme universe. Endoguard; to the Golden Palace’s official prison that Entrance to the audience hall is via an immense door- sometimes contains nobles who have been condemned in way made of an impenetrable alloy of white Netranekkon plenary assembly; and to unofficial dungeons where cer- and gold. The top portion of the Golden Palace rotates tain poor fallen courtesans rot away. An infinity of other constantly, its door only opening when it returns to a cer- passageways connect to great halls, small rooms, offices, tain position four times a year at 61-day intervals, since a cellars, and corridors that lead to unknown points of vari- year lasts 244 standard days. The courtesans who live ous usefulness. The sense of enormity and lavishness of inside the Golden Palace can then emerge, immediately decoration are such that an inattentive explorer would replaced by other nobles desiring to make their way into inevitably go astray. Such a structure calls into question the Court. the mental health of the architect who designed it. The Except during specific periods of galactic urgency, the only thing for certain is that there are many secret door- rulers of the Empire never leave the Golden Palace. For ways and passageways here example Magaella and Magellan, parents of Emperoress Janus-Jana, only once visited Marmola, and once boarded THE ARMED AND ADMINISTRATIVE the Diplomatic Vessel during the galactic crisis with the BRANCHES OF THE EMPIRE Pthagureans, although unfortunately this incident is what led to their death. However, the top portion of the Golden The inner circle of councilors generate and refine the Palace can transform into the Golden Vessel, which al- broad strokes of Imperial strategy, which is then put into lows the Emperoress to depart at any given moment for effect by the administrative branch of the Empire — the any point in the universe. StellComm, and vigilantly enforced by the armed branch As inviolable and impregnable as it is, the Golden Pal- — the Endoguard. Thus the Emperoress has two ultra- ace has nonetheless suffered the humiliation of assault on powerful divisions entirely devoted to His-Her cause. (customs and security inspectors, pilots, Their devotion does not The Human security agents who guard the ware- spring from freely given loyalty, Administration houses, various levels of office staff, and others) work in some aspect of handling which would always be at risk of Principle organ of logistic the astronomical quantities of data gen- retraction, but from much more management for the Empire, erated each day by interstellar com- powerful forces: fear and subjuga- StellCom centralizes the ac- merce. And, nearer to the central power tion. Indeed, the mighty tivities of tens of thousands of the Golden Planet, the high-ranking Endoguards are made to comply of men and women whose officers in the StellComm are entrusted Chapter 1 • 14 with Imperial directives by a techni- behavior is characterized with making sure that the Emperoress’s cal device, while StellComm agents principally by being… hu- will is respected and converted into daily comply with their orders for the sake man. While the Endoguards action for their ranks of administrators. of preserving their lives. distinguish themselves with STELLCOM AGENTS THE STELLCOMM their implacable and mechanical efficiency, the These generic characters can be used The Imperial Super-Ministry of Stel- StellCom agents are capable with the Metabarons Roleplaying lar Commerce (or StellComm as it’s of dialogue, compromise, the Game. more often called) organizes and regu- ability to listen, and even of Inspector. Agility 2D: dodge 3D, lates trade and commercial travel being corrupted. The rigid- throughout the universe. In theory, it firearms 3D. Knowledge 3D: bureau- ity of their administrative cracy 4D, business 4D, intimidation puts the framework and general rules function is generally enough for commercial activity into place and 4D, secruity regulations 3D+2. Me- to dissuade them from mak- chanical 2D. Perception 3D+2: bar- then ensures their maintenance by col- ing “friendly agreements”; laborating with the Maganats and other gain 4D, investigation 4D+2, search however, they remain the 4D+2. Strength 2D. Technical 3D: intergalactic authorities, such as the only governmental agents Guild of Imperial Merchants or the computer interface/repair 3D+2, secu- who are willing to accept a rity 3D+2. Psionics 0D. Move 10. traders of the Ekonomat. bribe. In practice, it primarily fulfills the du- Character Points 1. Equipment: De- ties of customs, maintaining offices and fense pistol (3D damage), fine uniform, delegations in all the universe’s hand vid-comm, io board. cosmoports. It controls the movement of merchandise and Pilot. Agility 2D: firearms 3D, 0-G maneuver 4D. of course collects taxes for the Imperial treasury. How- Knowledge 2D: astrography 4D, bureaucracy 4D, secruity ever, it also carries out other useful functions, such as de- regulations 2D+2. Mechanical 3D+2: astro-nav 5D+1, veloping and carrying out security routines for subatmo- comm 5D+1, gunnery 4D+1, piloting 6D+2, sensors 5D, spheric space and zones around cosmoports, administer- shields 5D, vehicle operations 5D. Perception 3D. Strength ing and maintaining hyperspatial routes and astrographic 2D. Technical 3D+2: computer interface/repair 4D, flight data, signposting and mapping the sectors adjacent to in- systems repair 6D. Psionics 0D. Move 10. Character ter-stellar wormholes, and handling all of the Empire’s Points 1. Equipment: Defense pistol (3D damage), flight administrative needs: registration, inspection of vessels and suit, pilot’s helmet (+1 STR to resist damage; head only), cargo, and so on. io board. In local areas, particularly in minor systems or ones Security. Agility 4D: dodge 5D, firearms 5D, melee com- somewhat isolated from the more heavily trafficked routes, bat 5D, 0-G maneuver 4D+1. Knowledge 3D: bureau- it is customary for StellComm agents to be more lenient cracy 4D, intimidation 4D+2, secruity regulations 6D. and more sympathetic to the grievances and demands from Mechanical 2D+2: exoskeleton operation 3D. Perception representatives of the Maganats or Colonials, indepen- 3D: search 4D+1. Strength 2D. Technical 2D: security dent shippers, or even pioneers who head off on explor- 3D. Psionics 0D. Move 10. Character Points 2. Equip- atory missions to return with their holds full of mineral ment: Viper pistol (4D damage), stun baton (5D stun dam- ore. In such cases, negotiation might be considered, un- age), uniform, comm headset, io board. less of course an Endoguard patrol is passing somewhere Clerk. Agility 2D: dodge 3D. Knowledge 4D: bureau- nearby. cracy 5D+2, business 6D, cultures 4D+1 secruity regula- For its missions, StellComm can call upon a fleet of tions 4D+1. Mechanical 2D. Perception 3D+2: bargain modestly armed vessels. There is no guarantee of safety 4D+2, con 4D, search 4D+1. Strength 2D. Technical 2D. in outer space. However, their armament does not permit Psionics 0D. Move 10. Character Points 1. Equipment: them to take on aggressors above a certain level of fire- fine uniform, hand vid-comm, io board. power, since StellComm agents are administrators more than warriors. In case of difficulty, the Endoguard is called THE ENDOGUARD in, and if they arrive on the scene in time, they will effort- The Endoguard makes up the armed branch of the Em- lessly turn the battle in their favor. pire. It is the most solid, most visible, most feared, and Parallel to their duties in the field, the hundreds of mil- also certainly the most loyal group to the Emperoress (ex- lions of StellComm agents spread throughout the universe cept for their transgression at Marmola, the causes and

15 • The Universe mechanics of which are ill-understood to this day). Not their facade of submission, they are primarily only is its firepower, thanks to technological support from there to serve their own ambitions. Nevertheless, the Techno-Technos, absolutely unrivalled across the en- thanks to the apt counsel of the Imperial Mentreks, tire universe, it also counts on utter ruthlessness and total and Goyo-Vah’s prescient recommendations, Janus- self-sacrifice from each of its men, every one of them pre- Jana is able to maintain a delicate balance, ensuring pared to consent to the final sacrifice. For an Endoguard, that they all act towards His-Her greater glory. the idea of dying for the Empire is neither a contract nor THE MEETINGS OF THE SENATE a choice, but simply a given fact technologically implanted in his brain. Death is not significant and certainly not a The plenary sessions of the Senate are held in the personal matter. It might be considered a professional er- throne room of the Golden Palace. They are a forum ror, a failing in the eyes of the Empire if the mission is for constant and merciless verbal jousting. The sena- compromised, but the ranks of the Endoguard are so tight tors do not hesitate to mutually slaughter each other that the disappearance of an individual goes unnoticed. with their murderous proposals. But all their words, Not including the Supreme Endoguard — an elite corps hurled with such conviction, are in vain. In reality, the providing tight security around the Golden Planet, the Senate has no concrete power, and its function is merely Golden Palace, and the Emperoress Him-Herself — the one of appearance. The activity that takes place withing Endoguard comprises various specialized units. However, those walls has no other purpose besides contributing to each individual Endoguard boasts multiple specialties. a “circus of politics.” Although the delegates defend their Indeed, through the course of his training, he not only of points of view with vigor and fire arguments and abuse, course learns to fight (they are experienced warriors in all it’s all for nothing, because in the end only the Emperoress known forms of combat) but also learns to use all avail- decides. able techniques and technology, to execute all applica- Of course, they do form committees. Then, after end- tions of military engineering normally reserved for spe- less round table discussions — which are merely a show- cially assembled divisions, and to handle all imaginable case for mind-numbingly vacuous speeches — reports are materials. Everything is done to make him the ultimate prepared, put to the criticism of the members, amended, specialist, devoid of all scruples or emotional limitations, and then finally approved. Janus-Jana never concerns Him- optimized for his mission: conquest and the enforcement Herself with any of this. The Emperoress forms His-Her of Imperial order. own opinion, enlisting no other aid besides the lucid analy- Given the immensity of the Empire, the Endoguard can- sis of His-Her Circle of Mentreks. But sometimes, He- not be everywhere. Nevertheless, it maintains permanent She will take His-Her pleasure by watching the duels be- patrols around strategic points and major worlds. In these tween the orators. zones, the slightest alert given by a StellComm agent trig- It might appear that the Senate has no other function gers armed intervention with the briefest possible delay. than to serve as an echo chamber for verbal assault among In more remote areas, such as those around the minor, the four Great Pillars. More importantly, however, it is a outlying Maganat or Colonial planets that are more dis- barometer that measures their relative influence in the Em- tant or less endowed with natural resources, the local pire.. And although the endless speeches are mostly use- forces alone are responsible for police operations. But if less, the prestige they confer on whoever speaks loudest the disturbances are of a significant nature, such as a pi- and longest is powerful and permanent. Although the rate raid or invasion by galacto-barbaric hordes, the delegates may attack each other while in session with bit- Endoguard is dispatched immediately. Depending on the ter and cutting words, they bend over backwards outside time required to arrive at the theater of operations, the the throne room to impress Janus-Jana and attract His- purple lancets might well arrive in the middle of the ac- Her favor. In the final analysis, the Senate has no demo- tion, in which case they restore order very swiftly. But it cratic legitimacy; it does not make any rulings, nor does it sometimes happens that they arrive a bit too late, and the contributeanything to the process of government. It is an entire battle zone is nothing but smoking ruins. In that arena where the Techno-Pontificate, the Maganats, the case, the Endoguard carries out punitive action, which is Ekonomat and the Union of Planets all battle for a snip- followed through until retaliation has been made. pet of influence beneath the amused eye of Janus-Jana. Janus-Jana might well concede certain privileges to one THE SENATE or the other of the four Pillars in turn. This group will Although the inner circle of councilors help Him-Her then immediately take advantage of the limelight, increas- develop the broad strokes of Imperial strategy, the ing their lobbying efforts. But their glory is short-lived, Emperoress exercises power through the intermediary of and the pillar that is favored today might fall into disre- the four Great Pillars, which together make up the Sen- pute tomorrow. The so-called circus of politics is a cruel ate: the Techno-Pontificate, the Maganats, the Ekonomat, game, but all too often everyone forgets that it’s a game. and the Union of Planets. Although each one of these Whatever action it may take, the fundamental motiva- branches acts in accordance with Imperial will, it must tion and indeed the very justification for the Senate’s ex- never be forgotten that their individual interests are in istence is that with every passing moment it reinforces the almost constant opposition. Behind their obedience and allegiance of the four Pillars to Janus-Jana’s authority. By and polite, despite the oddity of the presence of visitors the very fact that they hold sessions, and move from the outer-universes. heaven and earth to raise themselves in His-Her A plenary session is organized every ten standard years, eyes, the TechnoPontificate, the Maganats, the which is always the occasion for celebratory activities in Ekonomat and the Union of Planets continually con- the Imperial Palace. A setting of open exchange and ne- firm their submission to the Empire, at least on the gotiation, the Confederation of Parallel Universes could surface. But the Emperoress is not so easily fooled. end up playing a larger role if by chance a conflict broke He-She knows that the obedience of the large clans is out in a zone of the confines, and threatened to spread motivated solely by self-interest, which is precisely why further into the outer universes.

Chapter 1 • 16 He-She compels them to demonstrate, via the Senate, a public loyalty that they are far from swearing to Him- THE GALACTO-BARBARIAN HORDES Her in private. For in the subtle game of power, the Em- Like the coming and going of the seasons with births, pire must seize every opportunity to keep a tight rein on deaths, destruction, and rebuilding of life, the Empire and those who might one day rise against it. human civilizations have suffered and con-tinue to suffer the surprise onslaughts of the hordes coming from the HE ONFEDERATION OF T C confines. The very first encounter with the galacto-bar- PARALLEL UNIVERSES barians (also known as the Wild Bunch) took place during the reign of Rosemonde I the Rebis. The attacks not In 13612, initial contact was made with the parallel only tore apart the Empire’s relative tranquility but were universes who were concerned about all the agitation and repeated cyclically, becoming a dreaded reality of life in unrest occurring at the edges of the confines, resulting in the Empire, which had to be accepted despite the lack of the Human Universe officially joining the Confederation under-standing of the invader’s origins and motivations. of Parallel Universes in 13637. In 23124, after the explo- All that was known was that a real danger of extraterres- sion of the first Tri-H bomb, the Parallel Universes made trials with shady desires existed. The invaders came from their worry and disapproval known by rising up against remote areas of space, and they regularly federated them- these experiments “that were likely to cause cataclysms.” selves around a war chief in order to sweep through the This renewed contact was followed by intense diplomatic Empire. Today, after three major assaults, which are re- activity. The Empire quickly realized that it was in their corded in the historical archives as «the most barbarian interest to not ruffle the feathers of such powerful neigh- galactic wars in all of history, this non-human pres-ence bors. Although initiates were already aware of the exist- remains tangibly present at the outskirts of certain con- ence of parallel universes, it was this particular occasion fines. Accounts from space voyagers mention relatively that brought them into the public eye. peaceful people with tribal habits and customs qualified A permanent delegation from the Confederation of Par- as “paleo-barbarian.” It is only their inclination to unite allel Universes was established in the Human Empire af- themselves at regular intervals in order to raid and plun- ter the first series of diplomatic exchanges. der inhabited planets located hundreds of light years from The delegation is based in the Golden Palace on Golden their world, that seems to represent a real menace to the Planet. They have limited prerogatives, and essentially Empire. serve as a forum for discussion. Debates are courteous 17 • The Universe T H E F O U R P I L L A R S

Within the colossal mosaic of peoples, cultural in- religious. Although they may preach to the masses — about terests, clans, and individ-uals that make up the popu- the supremacy of technology, and the coming of the Dark- lation of the Empire, there are four distinct groups that ness — they don’t promise any happiness, either in this truly stand out from the rest. They are the four Pillars world or the next. They also observe rituals — primarily of the Empire. Because of their status, their demo- during services in their temples — but only in order to graphic weight, and their geographic scope, they rep- better control their flock. They are also constantly striv- resent a powerful force. Ever present in the political ing to attract new followers, whom they then convert with machinations of the Empire, they hold session in the ease. Their structure is a replica of the Paleo-Catholicism Senate, and even if the role of that organization is more of Terra Prima. A new Techno-Techno, once his spirit has honorific than strategic, the combined influence of the been won over to the cause, desires only the coming of a four groups cannot be ignored. new era, in which the black forces of the Darkness will rule the whole universe. More than a religion, the Techno- Techno Order is a tool of conquest, arranged in the form of a congregation. STRUCTURE OF THE CHURCH OF THE INDUSTRIAL SAINTS The Church of the Industrial Saints, also called the Magnus Dei, follows an extremely hierarchical pyramid structure. At its head is the Supreme Techno-Pope, religious and spiritual leader of the Church, ruler of the mil- THE TECHNO-PONTIFICATE lions of souls over which he holds sway. Of course, the well-being of those souls is not his main concern. He is A group so occult that it borders on a secret society, the more interested in tightening his grip on the Empire by Techno-Pontificate is both the Empire’s worst enemy and extending his tentacles and technological connections into the ally that contributes most to its glory. Although its every cranny. The Supreme Techno-Pope is selected from secret ambition is to seize absolute power at any price, among the conclave of Techno-Popes, high leaders of the the Techno-Church also provides the Imperial armed forces Church who rule the Endocities. Immediately beneath with decisive technological support for their battles for them in the hierarchy are the Techno-Cardinals and power. The Emperoress is perfectly aware of the Pan- Techno-Bishops, representing the first line of the order’s Techno threat, and it is not weakness that convinces Him- administrative machinery. They ensure that Techno- Her to tolerate their scheming. At the present time, the Techno catechism is firmly enforced. To that end, they Techno-Technos are not yet powerful enough to submit oversee the actions of their Supreme Techno-Abbots, who the whole universe to their will, so they plot in the shad- work assiduously within the massive hives of industrial ows and bide their time. And although the Emperoress activity they call their Techno-Abbeys, to spread the warms this snake at His-Her breast, it is only in order to Techno-Techno faith and develop ever more efficient ma- control it better. For this snake holds secrets without which chines and systems. the Empire would shine less brightly. The Techno-Church At the top, but invisibly, the Su- and the Empire have coexisted for ages, never entirely preme Techno-Pope himself is peacefully. After the Techno-Technos mastered the tech- subject to the authority of the nology of Tri-H bombs during the surprise galacto-bar- Techno-Centrus and the baric attacks of 23124, they attempted to overthrow Im- Council of Circuits. Together, perial authority and install a Techno-Regime throughout those two entities form the the entire universe. The Empire banished them for that Techno-Sacerdota, a type of offense, but a few centuries later, they returned to grace supervising intelligence whose when Magaella and Magellan — the Imperial Couple at that time —bequeathed the Church of the Industrial Saints with the status of official cult in the human universe. After all, it would be folly to forsake any ally who controls a weapon capable of imploding the universe. Despite its name, the Church of the Industrial Saints is not actually consciousness is

19 • The Four Pillars The Three as elusive as it is one’s fellow man. Over time, the members of Ophidian Entities inflexible. this community developed bizarre customs — As the official signs of recognition and other secret rites, although “Every 777 cycles, during religion of the without a mystical context. Little by little, these signs the ritual coupling of the Empire, the of group belonging and brotherhood among the inter- three Serpents, the three Su- Techno-Church stellar merchants began to separate them from the rest preme Ophidian Entities, has no trouble of the world. The tendency towards segregation grew during an act where two of constantly bring- ever more pronounced, culminating in total dissocia- them unite and the third dis- ing new followers tion between the guild and the rest of humanity. Of solves into them, this abso- to the fold. Even course, the merchants still had to conduct business, but lute trinity gives birth to a the highest direc- any contact with someone who didn’t belong to their third essence that, in the tors carry out fraternity was kept to a strict minimum. breath of a moment, reunites their rites and re- Some time after the guild had become a true occult car- the male and female qualities ligious duties in tel, one of its vessels was forced to make a crash landing of the other two, perfectly more or less good on a deserted asteroid in the middle of space. At first, the and intimately mixed, be- grace, and atten- celestial body did not offer any hope to the survivors of coming the perfect monoic dance at their the crash. After launching a distress call, they sat back entity, granted all the virtues Temples is main- and waited… for possible rescue, or death. After four stan- of the two principles.” — tained at a healthy dard days, their damaged ship’s oxygen supply was ex- Fragments of the fresque that average. How- hausted, and the three survivors had to put on their decorates, in an unbroken ever, for those spacesuits. Four hours of oxygen still remained. Resigned line, the foundation stone of who make a more to their fate, but nonetheless spurred on by uncontainable the Techno-Temple of Cen- serious commit- curiosity, they set out to explore the naked gray surface tral Planet. ment — usually of the asteroid, thinking only of finding their resting place beings without for all eternity. There wasn’t much to see on the blighted ties who see the landscape, but behind a large straight rock that stood on Church as material to fulfill the hollow in their lives — the plain pointing up at the cosmos like a finger, they dis- the Techno-Techno grip soon resembles complete immer- covered a cleft leading to a vast underground chamber. A sion in a religious cult. Body and soul, they become crea- pure, undulating, tures of the Darkness. snakelike curve Boasting billions of followers across the universe, ran along the en- the Techno-Church can call upon unlimited pools of tire length of the The Order’s manpower for any job. Their specialist Techno-monks rocky wall. It Renegades are divided into the ranks of Techno-surgeons, Techno- seemed to have Quasi-religious, extremely obstetricians, Techno-urbanists, Techno-engineers, been engraved on hierarchical, and directed by Techno-foremen, Techno-soldiers (or Techno-crusad- that thick, rough the supernatural influence of ers), Techno-economists, and other Techno-specialists. surface with the the Ophidian Entities, the These active officers form the backbone of the Techno- aid of the finest Techno-Techno order is far Techno industry. In each field, they direct the action in possible laser from being a mercenary the field of elemental nonspecialized units. The group imaginable. The guild where one can decide of Techno-Technos at the bottom of the pyramid is sole opening led one day to leave its ranks, called the Techno-Mano. to a long hallway, “no strings attached.” The Although extremely discreet, the Techno-Church is nev- which seemed to case of Marak Trankz is of- ertheless omnipresent. Only a few rare isolated planets, lead down into ten cited as an example. This or particularly intractable Colonial planets, do not pos- the heart of the Terra 402 neuro-technician, sess a Techno-Temple or even a Techno-Embassy. Out in rocky mass. With- who decided to leave the or- space, there are numerous pan-Techno ships that streak out pausing to der to join the Amok forces, through the cosmos, and each legal orbital station is a consult each lived clandestinely for two chapel in the order. other, the three years. Subject to fits of neu- men started down rotic paranoia and uncon- THE SOURCE OF TECHNO-TECHNO POWER the passageway. trollable hallucinations, he Formed around an ancient group of interstellar traders An orange light constantly imagined himself called the Merchants’ Guild, the Techno-Church took on seemed to ema- hunted down by legions of a new dimension in 13651, when the Central Planet was nate from the robo-trackers. He was later discovered. After that, those itinerants of the universe floor and ceiling. found in a Red Ring alley, formed a common brotherhood, bound together by a After a slight gutted of all of his internal strong sense of solidarity. The cosmos were still savage, bend, the incline organs. and it was vital to be able to count on assistance from became more pro- lous technology, doubtlessly originating in another uni- nounced. Their reserve tanks were nearly empty. verse. Today, the Magnus Dei not only holds countless They would leave this desolate world forever in patents over applications far superior to what human one standard hour at the most. Nonetheless, they technology can produce, but also over the process of con- carried on resolutely. Long minutes ticked by. They struction for the Endocities, a type of city-shaft. But that’s advanced with increasing difficulty. A layer of thin not all. In 23124, the Techno-Technos developed and ex- mist settled across the visors of their space suits. The ploded the first Tri-H bomb, a formidable device that thought of an agonizing death hung over them. triggers a simultaneous sequence of cataclysms in three Just as despair gently closed its talons over their will, parallel universes. This ultimate weapon, capable on its

Chapter 2 • 20 they arrived in a crypt of gargantuan proportions. A own of bringing one or several universes to their knees, strange light bathed this otherworldly and timeless place presents such a great threat that the Confederation of in phosphorescent shadows. Within the core of the rocky Parallel Universes forbids its use. More recently, the orb, a heart of the blackest darkness began to throb. Techno-Church developed another lethal weapon, the Then they saw a writhing knot of reptilian bodies slowly negative-mine, which they use only sparingly, so as not begin to untangle, like a nightmare that presaged the hor- to provoke envy. The mines set in motion a colossal chain rors of hell. Paralyzed with fear, the three merchants of destruction that produces anti-matter. At the same time, watched the snakelike dance of the reptiles, all the more the Church continues to work in other fields and strives hypnotic in the echo of frozen silence. They felt they had endlessly to broaden its infinite network. been granted the honor of beholding the enigmatic face of death itself. SPHERES OF INFLUENCE OF THE CHURCH Their blood now carried a deadly amount of carbon OF THE INDUSTRIAL SAINTS dioxide. The three disentangled serpents slowly began to Wielding enormous power and capable of challenging straighten. Sheathed in darkness, their bodies glimmered: the Empire itself were it not for the Metabaron, the silver, copper, and gold. Suddenly, a rush of life-giving Church of the Industrial Saints carries oxygen flooded the suits of the mer- out massive activity in a multitude of chants, and their energy was promptly areas. With technology as the back- restored, allowing them to witness the The Council bone of all its enterprise, they have a strange sight before their eyes. The Circuit total stranglehold on almost every ac- chamber’s walls were covered on all One would tend to believe tivity linked to commerce, science, sides with hieroglyphic carvings, emu- that the Supreme Techno- technology, and transportation. To a lating the patterns on the reptilian Pope is at the very top of the certain degree, they treat commerce scales. A feeling of hope swelled within Church of the Industrial and transportation as the same en- them little by little, and they grew Saint’s pyramid-structured deavor. The Techno-Tunnels — a net- bolder. They approached the three rep- hierarchy. The truth is, the work of interspatial highways without tiles, now as still as marble, noticing Council Circuit, although which the regions of the universe that their bodies were also tattooed hidden by the Tenebrae’s dif- would forever be condemned to isola- with an intricate layer of cabalistic sym- fused shadows and its ob- tion — are the key for trade between bols. At once, they knew they were in scure wishes, is the most the 22,000 major worlds and the infi- the presence of a great mystery, an un- powerful authority in the nite number of minor ones. As a re- fathomable secret with the power to pan-Techno Church. Com- sult, they are also a keystone to inter- change the universe. posed of Techno-inquis- stellar transportation. Subsequently, the small asteroid was itors,the Council Circuit or- In the sphere of technical and scien- transformed. Today it is Central ganizes itself around the Su- tific research and development, the Planet, the seat of Techno-Techno preme Central Computer, Techno-Technos carry out innumerable power. Its original diameter of barely and is under the direction of experimental programs not only in the 5,000 kilometers has been enlarged to the Techno-Centrix, which privacy of their factory-labs, but also 77,777 kilometers. Now, it is an ut- only resides on Central within the Endocities, which are un- terly impregnable base, one of the Planet or War Star. Perma- der their complete control. The theo- larger strongholds of the universe, ca- nently linked to the Great retically free citizens who inhabit the pable of resisting anything and any- Network, which guides them Endocities are in fact under total and one, except of course Steelhead the in their objective, the exclusive control of the Techno- Metabaron. The three Bodras, the ser- Techno-inquisitors make Technos. These citizens may be sub- pents of copper, silver, and gold, still them-selves known to each jects of the Emperoress, but the pow- reside on the Central Planet in a cav- other by showing their ers of the Golden Palace are not at all ern directly beneath the Techno- golden accreditation disk. concerned with their fate. So it is with Temple’s altar. The merchants, who They generally travel only in total impunity that the Magnus Dei later became Techno-Technos serving order to judge and eliminate conducts vast experiments on them, in- the Church of the Industrial Saints, re- enemies of the Order. tended to extract the portion of human ceived from them the secrets of a fabu- conscience they call the “K factor.” A 21 • The Four Pillars fundamental human drive of Kresus IV inestimable value to the Rare are those who are Techno-Techno’s objectives, the K not aware of the Supreme factor’s primary use is as fuel for Central Computer’s exist- the cold and inhuman mechanical ence, considered by many as systems. Thus, humans serve as the power behind the throne paleo-guinea pigs for the machines of the Church of the Indus-

Chapter 2 • 22 that prey on them. trial Saints. But there is an- Aside from all the Endocities in the other supra-computer, placed universe — 8,500 and counting — the at the head of Ekonomat THE EKONOMAT Techno-Technos also own three ma- transactions, which seems to jor planets: Central Planet, War Star, be as disconcerting to human The Ekonomat is the only Pillar of and Hospital Planet. Their activities on spirits as the Techno- the Empire whose discretion matches those planets are shrouded in the total Technos’ spying endeavors. its power. In the Endocities, as well as secrecy that characterizes their order The reinforced room that on the planets of the Maganats and and portends their greatness. houses Kresus IV’s circuits is Colonials, it is rare indeed to find any- On Central Planet, the Techno- in effect surrounded by an one who is even aware of its existence. Church trains its officers, some in antimatter isolation casing Nobody admits to working for the dogma, and some in attack and de- that excludes all life, all Ekonomat. No offices or buildings of fense. In the first group are specialists atomic existence, and all the Ekonomat are anywhere to be of ritual, who will later be assigned to links with the pan-Techno seen. Yet it is omnipresent, for it con- the ranks of the Techno-Inquisition. Great Network. trols all financial transactions. In fact, Unswerving on matters of doctrine, the even the tiniest banking agency in the Techno-inquisitors are in some ways smallest city on the most isolated the order’s police force, but they also planet forms part of the Ekonomat. work to spread their faith in the outside world. As for But the Ekonomat also owns the universal network that the second group, they will join the Techno-Techno army, manages the millions upon millions of accounts in the that vast organization made up of the Techno-soldiers universe — and the millions upon millions of transac- (otherwise known as Techno-crusaders) but also the tions that take place each standard day — as well as all Techno-assassins, who carry out dirty deeds for the greater the stock exchanges, specialized trust and investment so- glory of the Magnus Dei. cieties, the portfolios of the wealthiest Maganats, and On War Star, a tiny planet whose position is unknown the financial assets of the Empire. It therefore possesses to anyone, the Church of the Industrial Saints trains its unimaginable influence. Not a single kublar in legal cir- mercenaries. It also keeps track of them and gives them culation throughout the universe escapes its notice. assignments through the Central Mercenary Office. This regulatory body, apparently independent but actually con- HISTORY OF THE EKONOMAT trolled by the Techno-Technos, administers a test to the The pathological secrecy of the Ekonomat, and the aura mercenary candidates for classification purposes, and acts of dark mystery that shrouds its activities, are simply in- as a center for offers of employment. Of course, the test herited responses to a long and troubled history. At the for mastery of combat situations is administered by ma- time of its origin, the Ekonomat did not represent a clan chine. After his virtual battle, each apprentice mercenary in the true sense of the word, or even a group of specific is given a rank, expressed in Dhan, the index of a interests. In ancient times of life on Terra Prima, within mercenary’s worth in battle. every society and every population, there were people Lastly, on Hospital Planet, the Church of the Industrial without title or official position who dealt in the trade of Saints provides training for their Techno-surgeons, who are money. Universally despised, and sometimes even perse- quickly outfitted with so many mechanical attachments that cuted, they nevertheless lent vital support to the ambi- they cease to be quite human. Somewhere in the vast area tions of those in power. Without them, the colossal sums of the planet not dedicated to surgery, the Techno-Technos required for campaigns of conquest could never have been have also established the Mentrek Training Center. raised, and no warlords could have forged their empires. Thus, the Techno-Techno order maintains a gargantuan But the business of money-lending comes with both a presence in a number of key sectors. Their predilection for reward and a risk. By funding conquerors hungry for conspiracy and the tremendous means they possess at their power and glory, they put themselves in a position to disposal is a terrifying combination and gives rise to the receive large fortunes but also to suffer disgrace. In de- suspicion that their ever increasing conquests will never end. feat as well as in victory, nobody likes a man he owes That risk seems greater when one considers that the pri- money. Sometimes, society’s latent hostility towards them mary objective of the reptilian creatures who gave them their reached frenzied heights, and they were threatened, at- powers was absolute domination. tacked, and massacred indiscriminately. When Earth’s fickle history resulted in the near destruction of Terra Prima, they too were borne upon the screech- the life-giving waters flowed away, down into 23 • The Four Pillars ing winds that thrust humans across the cosmos. Scat- the heart of the planet, condemning its inhabit- tered to all corners of the universe, they steadily and se- ants to certain death. He had been asked to act as a cretly continued their activities. They never conquered repository for his fellow creatures’ memories, and planets or occupied high positions, but behind every war- immerse himself in total catalepsy to wait for intelli- lord who set off to carve himself a piece of the galaxy was gent life, in order to finally reveal their secrets. always a mysterious character with bizarre connections, Before succumbing to eternal sleep, Bemb revealed capable of raising millions of Kublars at highly competi- two things to these outcasts of civilization, forever re- tive rates. Over time, thanks to the military success of the versing their fate and allowing the Ekonomat to take warlords, they gained riches but never respectability. They on the dimension it holds today. First, under the thin remained outcasts in all societies, as if their financial abili- layer of dirt, the millions of oysters had, in death, left ties were some sort of shameful disease. behind a mountain of pearls of incredible splendor and Once they became endowed with substantial means, size, a fortune colossal enough to buy half the universe. this scattered culture embarked on a quest to find a world But even more valuable, he added, was the power con- they could make their own, a virgin planet that would tained within his flesh — the power to accumulate and house the heart of their community. In great secrecy, doz- stockpile hydrogen and oxygen atoms by compressing ens of exploratory vessels were prepared and then them, in other words the ability to either produce or launched in all directions, searching for a new promised deconstruct water molecules on demand. With such a se- land isolated from the stellar trade routes. It was the cret, it would be possible to hold an ocean within a paleo- Xodus, a decrepit but hardy vessel, that accidentally thimble and transport it anywhere. stumbled upon a vast planet, apparently uninhabited de- From that point on, the Ekonomat underwent an era spite the presence of an atmosphere. Perfectly secluded, of rapid expansion. Besides financial transactions, they this new world was accessible from took control of the trade in water, that only one direction, protected on one essential commodity of life, which side by an asteroid field and on the The Scientific many worlds were forced to import in other by an immense gaseous cloud. Chamber large quantities. Their massive assets Preliminary scans, carried out from In charge of financial only grew larger, and although their high orbit, showed almost no bio-ac- transactions and managing riches could never buy them an untar- tivity, or at least nothing that indicated the balance of the universe’s nished reputation, they gained the sta- the presence of any intelligent life. Cau- monetary flux, the Ekono- tus of a clan that could not be ignored tiously, after many standard weeks of mat equally enjoys an appre- and whose wrath was to be feared. scrupulous observation, a landing ciable influence on techno- Today, the Ekonomat is a necessary probe was sent down. It confirmed the logical and industrial evolu- participant in all economic transactions viability of the atmosphere, and tion. Placed under the con- of a certain scope. It controls the uni- revealed traces of a massive body of trol of the Mata-Master, the versal network of banks and manages water that had disappeared. A land- Scientific Chamber’s agents the assets of all the universe’s wealthy, ing team was dispatched, precisely into are capable of introducing in order to generate profit. the zone that showed the greatest themselves in any research- STRUCTURE OF THE EKONOMAT bio-activity. and-development factory To their great surprise, the landing and stealing industrial se- Based on Neo-Knox, the former team discovered only one life-from: a crets from all factions and aquatic planet that became their head- gigantic oyster endowed with telepathic corporations. It is said that quarters, the Ekonomat also maintains abilities. The enormous mollusk, which using their skills, they were a presence on all worlds of any finan- had been trapped under a patch of dry able to approach the Sacro- cial importance. Neo-Knox is the only sand for millennia, gave a warm wel- sanct Ophidat and success- planet it officially owns, but all of its come to the five members of the land- fully copy fragments of se- commercial delegations are granted ing team, and began to narrate the crets that are inscribed on its diplomatic immunity. Besides which, tragic fate of its planet and its people. scales. These matchless spies every one of them is an impenetrable He told them he was named Bemb, that have become the pan-Techno fort that nobody would risk taking by he was the sole survivor of a peace-lov- Church’s primary target force, no matter how enticing the co- ing race that had inhabited this once since the accounting of a ru- lossal riches that lie quietly in their aquatic land, and that he had been ap- mor establishing the exist- vaults may be. Omni-present yet invis- pointed the chosen one who would ence of double agents, who ible, the Ekonomat adopts strategies await their arrival. Long ago, he told are supposedly infiltrated determined by Neo-Knox, which are them, millions of shelled creatures lived within the heart of the pan- then scrupulously put into effect from here in harmony, in the clear waters of Techno Church. the top down by all their components. an immense ocean warmed by the rays Neo-Knox is where all arrangements of a loving sun. After a great disaster, are made, in the luxuriant calm of its Chapter 2 • 24 palaces of unimaginable magnificence. One word, pronounced in a muffled tone by a distant voice, would suf- throughout the cosmos, in search of secrets or 25 • The Four Pillars fice to plunge the economic balance of the universe into new ideas that might represent some market value. grave turbulence. Then, of course, investors across the The Ekonomat has not forgotten the good fortune universe would begin a chain of suicides, leading to a chain that allowed them to discover Bemb and his miracu- of deposits into the accounts of the Ekonomat. lous formula for reducing water to its simplest form. Intellectual head and governing body of the Ekonomat, Lastly, the third area of the Ekonomat’s activities is the “Midastic Chamber” is a board of twelve directors water. Their complete control over this element makes who rule the fate of the whole organization. The twelve it their surest source of revenue. The method revealed Ekonomes Masters that make it up are all well-respected to them by Bemb — based on secret principles that no representatives of their community, each one assuming one yet understands — is so powerful that the Ekonomat the presidency of the Chamber in turn. In all the history could instantly dry up an entire planet, converting it into of the Ekonomat, never has the slightest harsh word been a sterile desert incapable of sustaining life. Although such pronounced in the meeting room of the Midastic Cham- colossal power is tempting, Master Midas — the only one ber, which makes its decisions in the greatest unanimity with the ability to tap into this mysterious process — has that could possibly be conceived. The Ekonomes Masters never used anything other than purely commercial means, use refined vocabulary and speak in smooth and melliflu- the goals of which are ultimately altruistic. However, the ous tones. The accord that reigns among the group can possibility does exist, and if it ever felt the inclination to be explained by the fact that all twelve of them are de- do so, the Ekonomat could easily take over the Empire by voted to the same worship of profit, and they always agree threatening to reduce every planet to a pile of arid dust. to maximize it. The incumbent president of the Midastic Under the authority of the Supreme Treasury Custodian, Chamber takes the title of Master Midas. His leadership the water-related activities of the Ekonomat — which gen- role is essentially honorary, but he does have the task of erate aquakublars — call upon the talents of an abundant settling any dispute that might by chance be raised. Aside pool of specialized workers. from that, the Midastic Chamber’s decisions are routinely In the final analysis, the Ekonomat’s activities have only confirmed by the analyses of the Kresus IV, a calculating one goal in mind: to increase their capital. But such an machine whose power of long-term foresight is unprec- increase does not come without its own risk. All that ac- edented. Its predictions concerning the development of cumulated wealth naturally arouses envy, and there are the Bikramen exchange rate over the past two standard numerous parties interested in relieving the Ekonomat of millennia have been accurate within a margin of error of some of its wealth. To prevent that occurrence, and to 0.00000001%. Thus, the Ekonomes Masters congratu- discourage the ruthless, the Ekonomat has set up a force late themselves when their decisions corroborate Kresus of discreet and efficient mercenaries, capable of bringing IV’s assessments. the fight to wherever its interests require. The Ekonomat has three principal domains: banking, espionage, and water. Although superficially distinct, these ARMED FORCES OF THE EKONOMAT three areas actually complement each other perfectly. In Feared throughout the whole galaxy, the so-called banking, the Ekonomat handles all of the classic transac- Ekono-Mercenaries actually form part of a completely tions: investments, deposits, loans, collections, fund trans- separate mercenary clan. Normally, a mercenary must train fers, estate management, and so on. The field is placed on War Star and duly register with the Central Merce- under the leadership of the Supreme Kublars Custodian, nary Office before putting his services to use. In other who heads a diverse group of specialists in financial mat- words, the activities of all soldiers of fortune in the uni- ters. The Ekonomat is considerate and understanding with verse are in the hands of the Church of the Industrial their valued clients but mercilessly strict with their bad Saints. Not so with the Ekono-Mercenaries. They are all debtors. Their legal department’s collectors are literally free men, who choose to enlist. The taste for profit is the bloodthirsty and unmerciless killers. primary motivation for almost all of them, as no other As for the field of espionage — which falls under the military force in the universe can offer such generous authority of the Supreme Secrets Custodian — the wages. But the Ekonomat offers even more than that. They Ekonomat works in two separate areas: the search for are all too familiar with the negative influences of money secrets known by others, and the attempt to discover se- to put much trust in the loyalty of those who have it as crets of the universe as yet unknown. Fieldwork in the their only motivation. So they offer something to these first category, directed by the Mata-Master, resembles tra- rootless soldiers even more valuable than fame and glory: ditional espionage, except for the fact that no sense of a home, a community, and citizenship. The soldiers, after ethics, morals, or dignity is allowed to interfere with the being kept under strict supervision during an enlistment resourcefulness of their spies. All things are truly permit- contract that lasts one standard year, earn the right to ted. A spy-terrorist wouldn’t give a moment’s hesitation join the population of Neo-Knox over the course of spe- before sacrificing a planet in order to achieve his aims. cially organized festivities. They are strongly encouraged The second category, on the other hand, involves more to fraternize with young maidens who have been prepared peaceful work. Under the leadership of the Explo-Master, to that purpose since birth. Those who yield to the girls’ explorers and prospectors set off in every direction charms and consent to marriage not only see their career into the stars after the catastrophe on Terra Prima, have prospects broaden considerably, but they are reached a far more enviable status today than ever be- welcomed with open arms by the community. fore. But their path was a long, harsh, and rugged one, They always turn out to be the most loyal officers, and more than once they had to fight tooth and nail for utterly devoted to the protection of interests that are the victory that seemed to elude them. During their last now their own. days on Terra Prima, after the nobles had fled in their This psychological gambit depends on a precise bal- luxurious ships lined with silk and velvet, the starving ance. It must not affect the warriors’ military capacity convicts who were the remains of society had to squeeze nor produce complacency. Rather, it must give them a into container-ships by the hundreds of millions, with

Chapter 2 • 26 feeling of belonging, which is the only force capable of scarcely more hope of survival in the atrocious conditions summoning heroism or allowing them to carry out any on board than on the scorched gray remains of their once- sacrifice. Because of this, and because of the incredible blue planet. arsenal that their mercenary battalions have at their dis- Three of these gargantuan stellar rafts — each one a posal, the Ekonomat wields a staggering amount of force. makeshift construction of battered old space-transport Its vessels, generously equipped with armament, patrol barges, hastily jerry-rigged into an improbable mass im- the immediate surroundings of Neo-Knox, as well as un- mensely wide — departed Terra Prima for good, fleeing dertaking other protective missions, most of them involv- desperately towards uncertain adventure. They were the ing the transportation of money. By avoiding a desire for October Mir, the Long March, and the Granma Barbuda. conquest and by setting realistic objectives, the Ekonomat After the crew yelled heart-rending good-byes on all fre- ensures that its armed forces remain ever vigilant and pre- quencies available on their shipboard radios, each one set pared for any eventuality. Any attempt to raid Neo-Knox off in a different direction, knowing this would be the — already with its natural protection of asteroid field and only way that even one of them might have the slimmest gaseous cloud — would be tantamount to committing chance of survival. It took each ship more than twenty suicide. Especially since the army of specialists led by the months to reach hyperlight speed. The propulsion drives Supreme Custodian of the Treasure has clandestinely de- suffered horrendous pressure and were on the point of veloped a whole range of horrifying weapons based on exploding numerous times. Entire sections of the delicate, Bemb’s formidable secret. unstable constructions broke off and were engulfed in the These weapons — made of hyperdesiccating beams — vacuum of space, condemning millions of passengers to emit gigantic rays with spectacular and instantaneous ef- agonizing deaths. fects. All water, down to the slightest molecule contained Gradually, they began to get organized. Their first pri- in either living tissue or dead matter is ority was the production of goods in abruptly converted into oxygen and hy- the largest possible quantities. Teams drogen atoms, which are then released were set up to work around the clock. into the atmosphere or into the vacuum The Ideal Their production goals — in periods of space. So far, the Ekonomat has Society’s Utopians of five standard years — were all sur- never used this secret weapon, but their Within the heart of the passed, but new and even more ambi- mercenary vessels are all equipped with Colonial Planets’ gigantic tious ones were immediately put in it, and defensive batteries of the family, there still remains place. Productivity contests were weapon have been installed on the nu- some who are the pure em- staged between different teams. The merous asteroids surrounding Planet bodiment of Trotsky-revolu- most productive laborer would be held Neo-Knox. tionaries. Under the aegis of up as an example and glorified until Kamar Kirin, these con- his name became a household word. vinced Utopians in search of The reality of life in close quarters the ideal society coura- called for extremely strict community geously resist being merci- regulations, which everybody strove to lessly tracked down by the obey as best they could, in the name of Empire. For decades they survival. In addition, the captains and have been judged as both shipboard officials — organized into heretical and dangerous. committees that ruled the whole ves- Their profoundly human sel — made the wise decision to form and moral values have been a police force that would be present in attracting the particular at- all areas of the vessel, keeping watch HE NION OF T U tention of Imperial spies and everywhere and ensuring that all direc- COLONIAL PLANETS Endoguard squads, who tives were respected. They also encour- have orders to eradicate this aged informants. The most distant sec- BEGINNINGS menace to the Empire’s sov- tion of each vessel, which until that point had served as the hold, was pres- The Colonials, who descended from ereignty. surized for conversion into a prison for the Earth’s wretched hordes cast out deviants. More precisely, it was a re- 27 • The Four Pillars tion,” and workers and peasants everywhere in the Union education camp, where those who had strayed of Planets thanked their lucky stars for having been born from the correct path had a chance to make on a world where the precepts of Paleo-Marx reigned su- amends with hard work. preme. After more than a standard century in hyperspace, Of course, the Empire attempted to seduce these archeo- the three vessels made the decision to reenter the real utopians with the charms of the modern world, but they universe. Four generations had passed, and survivors had to face facts: the Colonials were fiercely proud of with memories of Terra Prima were few and far be- their singular beliefs. And if the influx of technological tween. Over the course of months, the ships slowed to marvels somewhat softened the Colonials’ strictness, it

Chapter 2 • 28 infra-light speed. Although they hadn’t been in contact did not even slightly diminish the firmness of their con- for decades, the October Mir, the Long March, and the victions or their adhesion to dogma. So the Empire found Granma Barbuda returned to conventional space at the other means. They appointed Colonial leaders to the gov- same moment. Against all statistical probability — or erning associations of the Empire, and gave them an in- perhaps it should be interpreted as a manifestation of income in exchange for holding debates of an essentially herent social justice influenced by pressure from the masses folkloric nature. The Mentreks who had developed this — each of the three vessels emerged in a system contain- solution gave it the colorful name of “poli-theatrics,” being a number of viable planets. Millions of light-years dis- cause that’s essentially what it was. On the Colonial plan- tant from each other, they decided to use the technique of ets, life hardly changed at all. But on the level of the Em- “seed-spreading” they had chosen a hundred standard pire, Janus-Jana knows that in the future he can count on years ago. The plan involved landing a portion of their the loyalty of their populations, who occupy more than travelers, giving them the mission of colonizing the whole half of the major worlds in the universe. system before “spreading” to other systems. Meanwhile, the space vessel would continue its course, in search of THE COLONIALS TODAY other locations where new “seeds” could be planted. This Taking up 80% of the known habitable planets in the way, in just over a millennium, an overwhelming number universe — both major and minor — and more than 60% of systems and galaxies would have been colonized, and of its human population, the Colonials bring real politi- their goal would be accomplished. After the three origi- cal weight to the Imperial arena. Nonetheless, in the up- nal vessels had finished their quest per political echelons of the Empire, through space, the “spreading” popu- even within the Senate, their pompous lations would continue to carry on their The Universe’s and exaggerated declarations are rarely sacred quest. Orphans taken seriously. But although they may But one day, the inevitable occurred. When studying the history be ridiculed in private, they are never An Imperial detachment made contact of the Colonial Planets, one openly challenged. The honor of the with colonial vessels in a zone sur- realizes what a driving force Colonials is extremely delicate, and rounding a colonized planet. There was migration and nomadism are they possess a military of considerable no confrontation, merely a rapid as- in the evolution of these strength. True, the technology of their sessment of the ratio of forces. The people who are attracted by armaments is obsolete, but they can call Colonials immediately realized they the discovery of space and upon infinite hordes of fanatic soldiers were no match for the newcomers, new habitable land. Today ready to die for their cause. whose military technology was at least still, new colonies leave their Aside from their impressive infantry several millennia ahead of theirs, even native planets in the direc- — poorly equipped and almost un- at the most conservative estimate. First, tion of the confines, aboard tested, but infinite in number — the they exchanged friendly signals, then world-vessels loaded with Colonials hold few strategic advan- messages of peace, then ambassadors, provisions and survival sys- tages. Ultimately, the power of any par- and finally, after an exile that had lasted tems. These new colonists ticular group is measured by the for a few thousand years, the Colonials are sometimes forgotten for amount of force it can deploy. This was returned to the bosom of humankind. several centuries, before they demonstrated by the Philodendra affair, At that point, the Union of Planets was are accidentally discovered in which the greed of the Church of only a scattered mosaic of separate during an exploration mis- the Industrial Saints turned a deaf ear worlds, which had great difficulty sion. They may very well both to pleas for mercy and to legal maintaining an appearance of unity. have been forever stranded arguments confirming that the Empire However, despite the great distance on a hostile planet, victims had well and truly conceded unalien- between them and the communication of genetic mutations, living able planetary titles to the populations difficulties that resulted from their out- in symbiosis with an extra- that inhabited them. If the Colonials dated technology, the group of Colo- terrestrial race of insectoids, had managed to summon any last-ditch nial planets superficially agreed on cer- or even dominated by a su- resistance — such as a galactic trench tain key issues. Every Colonial planet pernatural entity. war in the whole zone around Philo- endorsed the principle of “collective dendra — perhaps they would have ownership of the means of produc- been able to repel the greed of the Techno-Technos without the

29 • The Four Pillars Metabaron’s help. But the disunity of The Kamar barians, the Poly-Schismat- the Union of Planets is their chronic Raïmo ics, the Amico-Visitors, the weakness, which diminishes their Hyper-Putschists, the Trotsko- The chiefs of the great power. Separated across time and space, Revolutionary Avatars, and the Troglosocialik families’ clans the groups of colonists all developed Proto-Nihiliks — who range from recognize as their leader a along different lines. Additionally, be- eccentric to extreme, with danger- man chosen for his merit, cause each one of the local authorities ous clans at both ends. Some of courage, and warlike virtues. made it a point of honor to develop a them have kept their hate and rage He is called the new Kamar personal variation of the original alive and endlessly foment attacks Raïmo — a veritable incar- dogma, the Union of Planets became against the Empire. nation of the Colonial Plan- nothing but a vast assortment of clans ets’ community and tribal divided into splinter groups. They may life. A living legend and a not be entirely antagonistic towards model for all clan members, each other, but they are not always pre- the Kamar and all the clan pared to collaborate, either. The ex- members follow the Rayah tended family of Colonials can be di- honor code. vided into two large branches — the major factions and the minor ones — which themselves contain an infinite THE MAGANATS number of various doctrines. Based on a social system modeled on the Ancient Re- The isolated development over the course of millennia gime, the Nobility devotes itself primarily to maintaining stranded in space of an extremely structured and hierar- its privileges. The members of the High Nobility (the Archi- chical civilization that values the group above the indi- Nobility and a few families of the Nobility) make up their vidual led to results of both the best and worst kind. In- own court in the Emperoress’s entourage on the Golden deed, while some clans managed to keep their ideals of Planet, but they also possess fiefdoms as wide as galaxies. justice and brotherhood intact, others became completely Their life is therefore divided between traditional courtly immersed in the darkest totalitarian fanaticism. Luckily, activities at the Golden Palace, and activities typical of ga- the most populated major faction — the Troglosocialiks lactic country squires. Even on their domains, there is a wide — has kept itself free of any extreme dictatorial influ- range of different lifestyles, each with an infinite number of ence. The Troglosocialiks represent 60% of the Colonial variations. Some of the planets are almost untouched worlds population. The Techno-Technos consider them to be where flora and fauna are kept in abundance for the plea- nostalgi-fanatics entrenched in the paleo-past, simply be- sures of hunting in its oldest form, but others are highly cause they extol a way of life based on respect for living sophisticated urban worlds with the latest technological sys- things and harmony with nature. That was the message tems and devices available anywhere. preached by Don Nicanor Rosamel de Rokha, father of Whatever his rank, vanity is the most distinguishing Doña Vicenta (wife of Steelhead the Metabaron), and uncle feature of a Noble. His life is nothing but a long uninter- of Don Juan Antonio de Rokha, current President of the rupted flurry of festivities, and his goal in life is the fren- Troglosocialik clan. Their hatred of the Techno-Technos zied quest for pleasure in all its forms. All social norms, is fierce, and the Techno-Technos return it in kind. The taboos, rules, and morals that used to prevail have long Troglosocialik clan incorporates a large number of minor since been shattered to bits. The only thing that remains clans, one of which is the clan of the Kamar Raimo. A is the thirst for profit, a yearning for power, submission man of astounding bravery, with long-standing loyalty to to the strong, contempt for the weak, pettiness, insipidness the Empire, the Kamar Raimo could well be the next presi- of mind and spirit, and a taste for the easy life. As a group, dent of the Union of Planets. the Nobility gives the impression of a collection of de- Second largest of the major factions, the Galactic praved buffoons concerned mainly with vainglory, finery, Menscheviks are self-acknowledged misanthropic loners and trinkets, who enjoy the right of life or death over the who want only one thing: to live peacefully, far removed subjects in their fiefdoms, and who tremble at the idea from the Empire’s fast-paced lifestyle. Opinionated, se- that they might lose their privileges and rights at the slight- cretive, and hard-working, they are found in the most in- est sign of displeasure from their Emperoress. hospitable zones, even to the frozen ends of the universe. Nonetheless, the Pillar of the Nobility is one of the key To cite but one example, the clan of the Kamar Nabo- elements that holds the Empire together. Because they draw Koff settled on a solar ice floe and are not known for the all their privileges from the Emperoress, the Nobles are warmth of their welcome. They are excellent explorers, always ready to defend Him-Her to the death. To put it highly familiar with these rarely visited regions. Currently another way, Janus-Jana’s interests are their own, so His- ruled by Jerry-Michigan Poliaski, the Galactic Her glory is tied to theirs. Of course, that does not elimi- Menscheviks represent 20% of the Colonial population. nate the power of greed, and it’s obvious that if the op- The remaining 20% of the Colonial population is made portunity arose, not one of them would hesitate to betray up of a variety of movements and minor factions — the the Sacred Androgyne in order to attain power for them- Ultra-Colonialists, the Super-Conquerors, the Troglo-Bar- authority that made him the envy of so many. selves. Many of them even conspire to that very The knot of people around the renowned military man end. The Mentreks dispersed throughout the uni- suddenly parted to reveal a swell of high fashion. The verse in the service of the Great Houses are con- Mono-Duchess of Vronokoff, related on her mother’s side stantly hatching outlandish stratagems to bring their to the House of Poly-Romanoffs — surrounded as always masters closer to power. But the Emperoress and the by her retinue of young heirs whose haughty features were Nobility are effectively united by virtue of mutual ben- permanently frozen in masks of deep disdain — tapped efit from a corrupt social system, and both of them the General’s majestic medal-covered chest with the tip of want the situation to go on as it is. It is for that reason her fan. “They tell me,” she said in a light tone gently

Chapter 2 • 30 that Janus-Jana regularly convenes the High Council laced with malice, “that you had taken an interest in of the Nobility, where all He-She has to do is listen to Agolan poetry... how delightful. But see that your new their trivial proposals and hand out awards, ribbons, passion does not dull your talent for strategy.…” and baubles in “gratitude.” And without further comment, she resumed her path, at once distant and superb. Attendants twittered in her THE INITIATION OF YOUNG CADETS wake like birds snatching up grains. Crimson-faced and More importantly, in their own eyes, the Nobility rep- choking for breath, General Tarkin seethed with controlled resents pomp and circumstance, overstated splendor and rage. The whole universe, live and direct, had witnessed major events where they can put on display their immense his setback. He was awash in shame. He swore to himself wealth and shocking bad taste, see and be seen, observe that tonight some innocent creatures would be humili- others, make comments, size people up, be judgmental, ated and tortured. exchange ridicule, and participate in all the other impor- Servant-robots bustled everywhere, their mechanical tant aspects of life. What follows is an unabridged tran- arms loaded with platters of small delicacies from Alde- scription of a moment in the life of the Golden Planet’s baran and elegant flutes of champa-whisky. Here and there, high dignitaries, which illustrates just how burdensome vast tables covered with white linens offered an assort- the daily life of a Noble can be, even though they may be ment of all types of fruits and drinks to the Nobles. The envied by the vast majority of people. banners of all the Great Houses fluttered atop tall poles in a light breeze. Immense trees clipped into perfectly round On that day, as on every other day at that time, a radi- shapes gently waved their musical fronds. Everything ant sun showered its rays upon De Viris, the small artifi- about the synthetic scene, including the song of a few stra- cial satellite of the Golden Planet, dappling it here and tegically placed artificial birds, contributed in bringing an there with small coppery patches. Subtle yet lively glim- air of total harmony to the day. mers of light gave an inspiring Impressionistic view of the The only downside of the graduation trials of the immense purple lawns punctuated by turquoise islands Endoguard cadets was that they took place only once a and abundant clusters of flowers. The scene was all the year. Two hundred forty-four long standard days would more inspiring due to the mag- go by before they happened nificent costumes of the elegant again. That’s why it was so vi- Noble ladies, outdoing each tal for the day to be a success. other in eccentric fantasy and The children who had been endlessly inventing new color with the Endoguard since their palettes. Everywhere, batches of infancy had a thin shaft of ir- color blended to make flamboy- radiated Netranekkon inserted ant swirls, leaving a permanent into their medullas before the imprint on the retina. end of their eleventh year, once One retina present on the their brains had developed suf- scene was Armistau Meedpin’s ficiently. This device, called a cybernetic eye, which he played Gargat, made them into pow- over the environment, taking in erful killing machines blindly the sight of all the Noble Houses obedient to the will of their su- participating in one of the most periors, and therefore to the spectacular events outside the will of the Emperoress. But Golden Planet, instantly broad- before this initiatory surgery casting it to thousands of spec- took place, while they were still tators via the People for Nobody in possession of their naive fac- channel on the hypertele. His eye ulty of initiative, they were sub- lingered for a few moments on jected to trials designed to mea- General Tarkin’s face, still sure their qualities of determi- slightly strained from his diffi- nation, brutality, and savagery. culties on Planet Agola but im- And those who distinguished bued with the inflexible sense of themselves on this occasion were bequeathed the envied title of “First Cadets.” The honor subsequently showered upon their families was great mirth continued to ripple through the public, 31 • The Four Pillars indeed. like a storm refusing to abate. As a long trumpet call announced the beginning of the In the officials’ grandstand, General Tarkin had trials, and scattered groups began to converge on the mas- gone from his waxen pallor to an alarming shade of sive doorways of the huge circular-shaped building, the marble. His unmoving eyes were fixed upon an invis- corner of Amistau Meedpin’s eye discerned the slim sil- ible point right in front of him, light-years distant. The houettes of Luxuria von Stupre and Voluptia della numerous Imperial representatives by his side under- Fregnata, two archetypes of depravity wearing the most took calculated shifting movements designed to distance indiscreet clothing conceivable. With informal politeness themselves from him, with varying degrees of discre- bordering on vulgarity, they accosted the still frozen Gen- tion. But the show was already starting again, and ev- eral Tarkin and made it their mission to comfort him. As eryone began to prepare for the grand finale. Luxuria nibbled on one of his ears, Voluptia breathed into The 500 remaining contestants who had obtained the the other, “Come pay us a visit, Tarkin darling, we’ll help highest scores in the first challenge now had to face a trial you forget those mean little creatures. And you won’t find that was as spectacular as it was simple. The five hundred us hard to catch at all…” candidates would gather in a starting line, then race across More than a hundred thousand spectators had taken the length of the arena, a distance of about 300 meters. their seats within the stands of the gigantic enclosure, The first 50 to arrive would qualify for the next trial. To whose dimensions measured halfway between a paleo-sta- make things more interesting, approximately 10,000 crea- dium on Terra Prima and the combat hold of the Circus tures with delicate appearances but extremely aggressive Maximus.. Anybody who was anybody at the Golden Pal- temperaments were let into the ring. The young boys would ace was here, as well as a few who weren’t. People fought race naked and weaponless, but all blows would be per- for seats, and some of them would have gone as far as mitted. The battle was fierce right from the outset, with selling their titles, fiefdoms, friends or families in order to vicious combat everywhere. In barely ten minutes, the sand get a seat more in the public eye. Of course, proximity to was stained with countless pools of green liquid spilled the richly decorated boxes of the Great Houses of Nobil- from the wounds of the ferocious aliens, but there were ity was especially desirable, as if a little bit of their dis- also a few spots where red blood could be seen. The win- dainful splendor would dust the shoulders of the humbler ner, the Mono-Duchess of Vronokoff’s young relative, fin- spectators with glory. The Emperoress was not present, ished the race in exactly 27 standard minutes and 32 stan- but a life-size holographic representation of the Sacred dard seconds. The death of 76 young cadets would be Egg floated inside the Imperial box. mourned. It goes without saying that not one of the alien In the first trial, the thousand most naturally savage creatures survived. and warlike children from the Endoguard Training School Then, after another short delay, it was time for the final competed against the clock to skewer the greatest pos- challenge, which would determine the “First Cadet of the sible number of creatures imported from a distant and Year.” This title would arrange the Noble houses in a hier- isolated planet. The little creatures had big round fearful archy of honor whose subtle effects would be felt in the eyes, alarming shyness, peaceful natures, and incredibly Golden Palace for a long time to come. This trial would immaculate white coats. With 267 kills, a young nephew- also be a race. Starting at one wall of the arena, the 50 in-law of a distant cousin of the Mono-Duchess of candidates would rush headlong towards 49 doors that Vronokoff had distinguished himself well, and the box in opened into a bizarre construction. This tangled and per- which the respected Noblewoman sat among her entou- verse mazelike concentric structure would swallow all as- rage like a precious diamond in a setting of dazzling gems pirants to the supreme title, bringing them face to face was a showcase for a degree of false modesty that will with a diabolical arrangement of zigzags, narrow halls probably never be seen again. and other traps, leading the group onwards to an ever Servant-robots progressed up and down the aisles to diminishing number of doors. The first one to pass through give the spectators time to recover from the heightened the final doorway would become First Cadet of the Year. emotion. The Nobles fanned themselves elegantly and Once again, the boys would race naked, and of course, all made a thousand gestures to proclaim their disinterest, blows would be permitted. detachment, and unconcerned nonchalance. Diavaloo’s The public was not disappointed. There were many voice, commentating the event, drifted through the air opportunities to whoop and holler, and as always the level without interrupting their private conversations about such of preparation provided by the Endoguard Training School topics as how exquisite the weather was. Everyone tried was to be praised. Not one of the candidates showed the to fit in by affecting an air of gloomy boredom. At a cer- slightest sign of weakness. None of them made the slight- tain point, a remark from the hypertele announcer sud- est noise when struck. And not one of the seventeen caught denly caught the crowd’s attention: “…At least our young in a deadly trap emitted a scream. Once again, the cadets know how to deal with small creatures…” This Endoguard inspired pride and reassurance that the Em- remark seemed to give rise to great laughter. Some laughed pire was under its protection. gracefully and elegantly, while others guffawed without The Mono-Duchess of Vronokoff, whose young rela- the slightest sign of restraint. In any case, a great wave of tive had been awarded the coveted First Cadet title, ex- at the corner of his mouth, but it quickly turned into a pended considerable effort in not seeming to scowl of frustration. Not only was she protected by her attach the slightest importance to the event. The status, but more importantly, she was the queen of the general mood was one of light frivolity, although day. So he would have to depart without the satisfaction some let it descend further, into outright indecency. of revenge. As for Luxuria von Stupre and Voluptia della The finale, a last-minute dash that left things uncer- Fregnata, they were invisible to him…. Well, he had to tain till the last second, had really been spectacular. make up his mind. Lastly, glancing behind him, he spied Indeed, were it not for the young winner’s survival re- the band of military advisors whom he had always loathed flex, a last-ditch kick that knocked an ambitious con- with the deepest cordiality. “Well, I suppose…” he mused.

Chapter 2 • 32 tender over a 60-foot drop, the outcome might have Later, much later, once the members of the Great Houses been entirely different. had returned to the Golden Planet or their faraway Amid the sounds of chatter, laughter, and a smooth fiefdoms, after the cliques of Nobles had resumed their silken rustle, the crowd pushed against each other to exit lives of intrigue and hedonism, the Mono-Duchess of the building and seek further refreshment at the sumptu- Vronokoff was heard to refer to that year’s Endoguard ous function rooms on De Viris. Suddenly, Diavaloo’s stri- Young Cadet Trial in tones of warmth and sincerity that dent yet playful voice stopped them in their tracks. “Quiet! were completely alien to her: “Absolutely the best trials I asked for quiet, my beloved but overtalkative friends! ever. By far…” I’ve just received a message from the Emperoress, I kiss the ground touched by His-Her gaze, in which Janus-Jana THE STRUCTURE conveys His-Her displeasure.” Diavaloo paused briefly for On the scale of the universe, the Nobility has little in- effect, to let his words bore their way into the fearful souls fluence over political affairs. Although it may be a Pillar of all present. A peculiar silence fell over the assembly, of the Empire, the Imperial House displays no interest in with tension brewing in the undercurrent. “Yes, you heard its concerns, its claims, or its fickle mood swings. Janus- me right, dear spectators, I said displeasure… For on this Jana is the absolute monarch and decides the fate of the day that we pay tribute to the unflinching courage of the Human Universe alone. On the local scale, however, the Endoguard soldiers, the honor of one Noble Houses are representatives of among them is tarnished. It may be true the Imperial House and can claim cer- that General Tarkin’s only sin was an tain privileges. In the first place, since excess of confidence, but the The Feudah they carry out a variety of tasks for the Emperoress cannot allow it to pass that Dynasty Empire, they require the resources to Generally characterized by the Empire is made vulnerable to ridi- do so. In order to patrol outer space their luxurious residences cule.” The silence became even more and maintain Imperial order, they need and their planet’s excessive pronounced. An attentive ear could armies, vessels, and weapons. All splendor, certain Maganats have easily discerned the soft trickle of Noble Houses who hold a fiefdom equally distinguish them- sweat down the spines of the audience. have the right to raise and equip an selves with an eccentricity “As a result,” Diavaloo continued, armed force. As a precautionary mea- that at times borders on in- “General Tarkin is invited to satisfy the sure, the Empire sets limits on the level sanity. For more than 30 gen- Emperoress’s wishes by committing of firepower and technology they can erations, the Feudah Dynasty suicide immediately, in the middle of attain, but some Houses possess for- lived as if in the medieval era, the arena… But beforehand, he will be midable troops nonetheless. Aside from modeling their traditions on allowed to nominate five individuals to military might, each House wields those of the paleo-knights of be put to death, for having dangerously whatever political sway it likes over its ancient times. Their stone undermined the Endoguard. With this territories, and therefore can set up any castles stand on Tanelorn, a wise and lucid decision, Janus-Jana infrastructure they wish in the areas of minor renamed planet from hopes that His-Her message of love will finance, policing, and administration. the confines, whose forests be clear to all His-Her subjects.” Like the ancient nobility on Terra are filled with mutant game. As Diavaloo prattled on, some color Prima, of which it is a distant descen- They are well known for returned to the General’s pale face, and dant, the Empire’s Nobility is strictly their schools of archery and the Endoguard officer now wore the regimented and hierarchical. In order paleo-swords. His highness cruel smile of a paleo-wolf, which until of descending importance, the titles King Arthur Feudah, the recently had made him feared across generally are: King, Supra-Prince, thirty-fifth overlord having hundreds of galaxies. Everywhere he Mono-Duke, Bis-Marquis, Tri-Vis- this name, religiously carries glanced, a ripple of panic stirred the count, Hypo-Count, Non-Baron, and out the knighting of young crowd…. Petro-Knight. (Some families use adults in his clan, while Mer- General Tarkin quickly scanned the whimsical variants of these titles, such lin VII perpetuates a long horizon, his eyes coming to rest on the as “tsar” for “king,” to ensure a de- tradition of visionary as- Mono-Duchess of Vronokoff. She met sired estimation of their House.) trologers. his gaze and even seemed to defy it. For According to tradition, the titles are a moment, a glimmer of a smile played passed to the males in order of birth, after the eldest son, of course, has been

33 • The Four Pillars sent to the Endoguard. (There are rare The Artistos course, each one encom- and bizarre expections: Some families al- If the Infra-Nobility re- passes an infinite amount of low females to inherit, while some allow mains the most modest and subdivisions, but fundamentally the title to pass by the female line even if least powerful on the only those seven clans can claim the females may not inherit.) Maganat scale of merit, its status in the Archi-Nobility. Census-taking of all the Noble lines members do have the possi- Then, at the very top is the spread throughout the universe is a co- bility of attaining Aristos sta- Omni-Nobility, which includes one lossal task that requires a staggering tus by renouncing their lin- and only one lineage, that of the amount of calculating power, especially eage and rights in order to Trans-Bourbons. At the present as the Empire distributes new titles and join this new cast. In return, time, the Omni-Nobility only has fiefdoms as quickly as new planets and they are granted the privi- one member, the Emperoress Janus- systems are discovered and brought into leges of Endocity Nobles. Jana, although technically that one the Imperial domain. Ascent in the However, the new Aristos are member counts as two. Noble hierarchy is not an easy thing, confined to their new fief The seven families of the Archi- and the rare families that manage to do and lose all rights and influ- Nobility have the mannerisms that it generally owe it to several centuries ence beyond the Prez’s juris- might be expected of archetypes rep- of patient intrigue. The very oldest of diction. resenting a very distinctive clan. An the Houses, those that signed, more informed observer could even take than 25,000 years ago, a personal pact great pleasure in watching them play of vassalage to Rosemonde I the Rebis, their roles perfectly, down to every received at that time a medallion containing a drop of the detail. One example of note is the Retro-Windsor fam- holy Golden Oil. Since then, that ceremony has more or ily. That opulent House is ruled by Her Majesty Queen less fallen out of favor, but from time to time the Empire Lizabeth of Windsor, a ravishing woman of now ma- will bring out another drop, to reward a Noble House or ture age and presumably celibate, since she is married. buy its favor. Indeed, her Supra-Prince Consort is invisible and in- Alongside the hierarchy of titles, there is another clas- significant. He is neither seen nor talked about. On sification system within the Nobility, which includes four the other hand, there are many remarks that people levels, in order of importance: the Omni-Nobility, the make about her: that she drinks, that her impassive Archi-Nobility, the Nobility, and the Infra-Nobility. The face hides many shameful deeds, that she revels in de- Infra-Nobility is the lowest, but assignment to a particu- bauchery, that her IQ is less than two digits, and other lar level of Nobility is not linked to title alone: through- comments of an unfriendly nature. What is known for out the universe, hundreds of kings and supra-princes certain is that she collects hats. The House itself is stu- could easily be found within the Infra-Nobility. No, what pendously wealthy and presides over Planet Laylin, a determines the families and houses of the Infra-Nobility magnificent world in the Windsor system. Her private is their lack of financial means. They guard consists of three regiments are most likely to be the Noble Houses (Welch, Rish, and Kottish guards) that settled on outlying planets or plan- whose richly embroidered uniforms ets lacking in natural resources. Inevi- Hierarchy of are slightly absurd, but whose for- tably, their lives are somewhat rustic. Noble Titles midable fighting divisions are feared Very often, their scanty funds do not The hierarchy of common in most parts of the universe. Thanks prevent them from displaying a haughty family titles for the nobility to its many contacts in the world of arrogance, and most often it is the In- is as follows: finance, the House of Windsor fra-Noble families who are the most makes its profit by manipulating its punctilious on matters of etiquette. • King colossal capital base, inherited from Their greatest and most desparate hope • Supra-Prince a not-so-distant era, when it con- is to someday join the Aristos of an • Mono-Duke quered entire systems on behalf of Endocity. • Bis-Marquis the Empire. It must be emphasized The next level is the regular Nobility, • Tri-Viscount that 80% of the members of the which is by far the largest group. Al- • Hypo-Count House live on the Golden Planet, most the entire spectrum can be found • Non-Baron most of them women, where they within it, because the power and influ- • Petro-Knight embody daily the true meaning of ence of some of the families of the regu- the word “courtesan.” These beau- lar Nobility can almost rival the Em- Note that individual fami- tiful pale-skinned women seem to pire, while others eke out more or less lies may chose variations on have but one ambition, which most pathetic lives on worlds whose luster these titles that are peculiar of them attain: to secure the most has somewhat faded. to their heritage. lucrative relationship possible. The Archi-Nobility, on the other The other great families of the hand, only contains seven families. Of Archi-Nobility are the Kama-Ming • Principle Source of Income: Patronage of the fine arts. (led by Holy Father of the People Tsui-Amah • Patrimony: Three major world systems, one of which of Kama-Ming), the Poly-Romanoffs, the Crypto- is a complete replica of Terra Prima. This planet is avail- Medicis, the Hyper-Hapsburgs, the Ante-Kennedys able for rentals of all kinds, including destruction, such and the Omni-Shakyas.. All members of these fami- as experiments with new weapons or simply for the pure lies live on the most beautiful planets of their pleasure of destruction. For the modest sum of a few mil- Maganats, in sumptuous palaces of indescribable splen- lion kublars, a “destruction of Terra Prima” certificate is dor and luxury. offered. • Particularities: The Crypto-Medicis’ sumptuous cha-

Chapter 2 • 34 HIERARCHY OF THE MAGANATS teau is found on planet Corada in the Medicor system. Each Noble familiy possesses a particular rank. There The largest gallery of art in the Human Universe is housed are four ranks of Nobility: there — artists pay fortunes to have their works exposed in the Crypto-Medicis personal collection, which equally • The Omni-Nobility, reserved for Trans-Bourbons finances the largest galactic company of archeo- • The Archi-Nobility, composed of seven families of paleological research. the upper Nobility • Quote: “When art rhymes with kublar, it’s poetry…” • The Nobility, groups the majority of Noble families —Neo-cosme the Elder. • The Infra-Nobility, designates the “poor” families THE HYPER-AB’SBOURG Differences between the nobility are well known to ev- His Majesty the Supreme Kaïser Hans Grüber von eryone, especially the Nobles themselves. Yet, no one Hyper-Ab’sbourg would risk ridiculizing themselves by stating the obvious The Supra-Prince Otto von Hyper-Ab’sbourg in a social gathering. A simple smirk or giggle is often enough to put a lower family in its proper place. • Principle Source of Income: Pillage. The Omni-Nobility is the official title of the current • Patrimony: In addition to owning 15 or so systems of leaders of the Empire, the direct bloodline of Rosemonde which two are major worlds, the Hyper-Ab’sbourgs pos- I the Rebis. The unique representative sess an impressive number of land parcels on thousands of the most noble of families is the of other planets. This real estate trea- Emperoress. sure chest results from their insatiable Planet Safari need to conquer new territory. THE ARCHI-NOBILITY • Particularities: The Hyper- The hypertele program Ab’sbourg family is organized into a “Within Your Reach” re- THE ANTE-KENEDI formidable army, possessing the most cently experienced a daz- His Majesty the King Kurt Jackson impressive and best organized military zling viewer increase of Ante-Kenedi force of all the Maganats. Their cita- through the promotion of a The Kinglet William Jackson of Ante- del-fortress is situated on Karpol III, one-of-a-kind contest. Fol- Kenedi in the Ab’or system. lowed by billions of lower- • Quote: “Total war? Dreams of level inhabitants, each • Principle Source of Income: Misap- old…” —Kaïser Magnus von Hyper- month the show offers to a propriation of funds. Ab’sbourg. dozen happy winners the • Patrimony: Two systems, including right to leave their Endocity THE KAMA MING a major world, Kenedior, and the planet on a luxurious spatio-ketch, Amerine, where they have established His Majesty the Saint Father of the to discover Planet Safari’s their capital-palace. The Ante-Kenedis Tsui-Amah people of Kama Ming tropical savannas. After an chiefly reside on Golden Planet, where Laonin, Supra-Prince Illuminati of unforgettable week of ban- they keep themselves busy with the Kama-Ming quets and swimming in the Empire’s politics. waters of artificial lakes, • Particularities: At court, nothing es- • Principle Source of Income: Mass sponsored by the Hyper- capes them, and many noble families production. Ab’sbourg, the winner- come to “consult” the Ante-Kenedi • Patrimony: Twelve systems, in- guests are let loose into na- senators to get advice or favors. cluding five major worlds. All worlds ture, for a thrilling hunting • Quote: “Politics should remain a are organized into human “termites experience. No winner has privilege, in everyone’s interest.” — nests,” dedicated entirely to the mass ever returned to share his Senator Archi-Balde II of Ante-Kenedi. mining of precious minerals, gems, and photos and souvenirs, rare raw materials, with the exception THE CRYPTO-MEDICIS but the hypertele audience of planet Badmech in the Mingor sys- His Majesty King Ruis Federico numbers haven’t stopped tem, where the royal family resides in Bolino of Crypto-Medicis climbing. a splendid jade termitarium. The Supra-Princess Katarine Bolini of Crypto-Medicis • Particularity: The Kama-Ming are the least inclined to involve themselves in Imperial plots and absolutely do • Patrimony: Laylin, a sole but magnificent 35 • The Four Pillars not tolerate any intrusion into their own affairs. planet, located in the Winds’Or system, where the • Quote: “One for all; all for Ming!” —The Supreme queen lives. Even so, 80% of the family lives on Mandarin. Golden Planet. • Particularities: Women from the family line are THE POLY-ROMANOFF courtesans who obtain favors from their suitors with- His Majesty the Tsar Horlog of Poly-Romanoff out any difficulties… The Supra-Prince Mamouch Yvan Horlog of Poly- Quote: “A good marriage is an Archi-mar- Romanoff riage!” —The Bis-Marquise Rosa-Rosam. • Principle Source of Income: Arms and weapons sales. THE OMNI-SHAKYA • Patrimony: With 21 systems in their possession of His Majesty the Bodhi-Pad Aradjasatrü of Omni- which eleven are major worlds, the Poly-Romanoffs are Shakya by far the richest of all the Maganats. Eight of these ma- The Supra-Prince Masamsatrü of Omni-Shakya jor worlds are exclusively reserved for the royal family and serve as hunting reserves, paradise-planets, and de- • Principle Source of Income: Narcotics. pendencies of Neo-Moskou, the Romanor system’s • Patrimony: Ten systems. Almost all of their wealth mother-planet. comes from the traffic — legal or illegal — of drugs and • Particularities: Parties given by the Poly-Romanoff narcotic substances of all kinds. The unbelievable wealth family are known throughout the endo-fringe for their they have accumulated over the years has been turned splendor and unforgettable orgiastic debauchery. Inciden- into lavish palaces, filled with magnificent jewels and gem- tally this family completely and exclusively equips the stones, among which are the most rare in the entire Hu- Imperial Endoguard. All weapons and armor are manu- man Universe. Their principal palace is found on the planet factured in the thousands of giga- arms factories owned Sacred Lotus, in the Mahal system. and run by the Poly-Romanoffs. • Particularities: Their knowledge of new and exotic • Quote: “What’s tiresome about the people is that they drugs cannot be equaled. They prefer to take refuge in still have to exist.” —Mono-Duke Igor Poliakine of Poly- their smoke-filled universe, rather than lower themselves Romanoff. by frequenting other Noble families. They consider it degrading to live in the same “reality” as their fellow crea- THE RETRO-WINDS’OR tures. Their connections with smugglers and pirates are Her Majesty Queen Louisabeth of Winds’Or both numerous and prolific. The Supra-Princess Anna-Bella of Winds’Or • Quote: “As law has its place, the way will take you there….” —The Great Pachen Adrah-limpür of Omni- • Principle Source of Income: Investments. Shakya T H E F A C T I O N S

THE MENTREKS cial intelligence would never match the insightful flashes of genius of the human mind. And little by little, the idea Although the Mentreks are present throughout the of uniting the two forces emerged. whole Empire, little is known about these mysterious The first attempt at a merge was not really successful. beings. Humans respect them for their tremendous store In the beginning, the main obstacle was getting data to of knowledge but are unsettled by their bizarre pow- flow to the appropriate sector. So an initial analytical fil- ers, both real and imaginary. Hence the sight of their ter was installed prior to the cerebral command path stage. emaciated figures topped by blinking brains always in- Then, by trial and error over the course of centuries, the spires a mixture of respect and fear in common mortals. driving force behind the architecture of the Mentrek brain Indeed, the Mentrek clan would be completely ostracized was developed: a fully incorporated multi-cognitive analy- from the Empire’s other populations were it not for their sis tree. The concept behind this rather old-fashioned staggering mental abilities. Each one of them is able to phrase was both brilliant and simple: the technological calculate pi to 2,758 decimal places and quote the stellar device had to emulate the circuits of human deductive coordinates of all worlds ever visited by the Imperial fleet. reasoning. The hardware’s solidity and the wetware’s flu- But that is not the limit of their abilities, and it would be idity were united to make a perfectly homogenous whole. a mistake to think of them simply as living adding ma- This sent the restricted binary system back into the dark- chines endowed with infinite memory. Each Mentrek is a ness of paleo-history and paved the way for analysis that sublime combination of data and intuition, a blend of as- would not suffer the uncertainty of determining probability tonishing technological prowess and lightning-quick de- paths. The second attempt was more successful, and once duction. They are fragile, like all precision equipment, the problem of tissue rejection was overcome, a new gen- but once they are able to balance hard data with the flow eration surfaced that merged deduction with data. of thought, their expert prognostications take them to the threshold of new truths, which the human spirit could MENTREK TRAINING never hope to attain on its own. Inevitably, the introduction into the Empire of beings THE ORIGINS OF MENTREK INTELLIGENCE with such great capacity provoked a huge uproar. Such quantities of intelligence for the sake of a seemingly harm- Mentrek intelligence has its origins in the pioneer days less game introduced the seeds of promise both exhilarat- of long ago, when the Milky Way was first being explored. ing and disturbing at once. Their analytical powers might In that era of sublightspeed travel, the exploration of space become powerful weapons in the wrong hands. The Em- was a long and drawn-out affair. Even a small jump to a pire could not allow this to occur. As soon as it became destination only two light-years away might last 25 stan- clear that Mentrek intelligence was a key to power, the dard months. Although the brave pioneers could dodge Empire took this new area of human activity beneath its the clutches of time by plunging into the frozen sleep of control and predictably entrusted its technological arm, cryochambers to slow their biological rhythms, each ex- the Church of the Industrial Saints, with its supervision. pedition had its share of long days of inactivity. To com- Since then, the Techno-Technos have held exclusive au- bat boredom, the primarily scientific and technical crew thority not only over the identification and training of would devote themselves to chess. After a thousand years any individuals who show intellectual talent, but also over of space exploration, rich complexity was added to this manufacture, installation, and maintenance of the multi- immortal game by giving it a three-dimensional scope: cognitive analytical brains. the pieces could move not only horizontally but also ver- Everywhere that the Empire is represented, down to tically. Instantly, millions and millions of possibilities were the smallest planet, Techno-scouts are constantly on the added. Games between even the fiercest players might last lookout for even the youngest child whose intellectual ca- for years. For centuries, the idea of reaching checkmate pacity appears greater than the norm. The harsh reality is was only a pure theoretical fantasy. An obsession with that the creation of a Mentrek brain is not entirely with- the game took over the minds of the players and some of out risks. Unless a very specific combination of them were driven insane. With the exponential increase neurocortical qualities is present, the recipient may well of combinations, this seemingly harmless pursuit became be plunged instantly into the depths of madness. Or worse, the abyss that swallowed the souls of Terra Prima’s most the cerebral hemispheres of his brain might swell out of brilliant engineers. proportion and explode. However, any young individu- The answer was found in technology. While the intel- als who are gifted enough at the age of six months to lect might stray into infinite conjecture, cold supercon- identify visual symbols and arrange them in a logical fash- ducting teflo-silicon chips could provide a solid statistical ion, thereby demonstrating both graphic and semantic base for three-dimensional positions of pieces on the skills, receive intensive preparation followed by the im- board. Little by little, the crew began to make use of ever plantation of a cybernetic brain. Once that’s done, their more miniaturized personal computation units. But analy- intelligence unfurls like a golden paleo-blossom offering sis didn’t resolve everything. As efficient as it was, artifi- itself to the morning sun. The instant a gifted child is recognized, Techno-Techno envoys administer a Meta- ising children grow into eager and efficient ser- 37 • The Factions Cerebro test. If the child survives the test, he is taken from vants. They are enlightened creatures in the area his family and sent to the Mentrek Training Base on the of intelligence and reasoning, but just dumb robots Central Planet. when it comes to feelings and emotion. They must The first phase of training for all apprentice Mentreks achieve perfect mastery over their cerebral faculties, has only one goal: to increase the volume of the brain by whose powers are so great that at any moment they a factor of ten. The transplant’s success will in large part can push the light of reason down into the depths of be determined by the space available in the cranial cavity. insanity. Indeed, the grouping of such vast and massive So, during infancy and childhood, before their bone struc- stores of information into one mind can produce insta- ture has entirely hardened, the Mentreks-to-be are sub- bility, leading to internal whirlpools where all the mys- jected to a massive dual program. A chemical sub- teries of the universe dance in diabolical patterns. It takes stance is administered intravenously to soften the a lot of time and patience to learn to spongy tissues and make the skull bones flex- manage a Mentrek brain. It’s like tam- ible, while at the same time they are force- ing a cruel and savage beast of phenom- fed incomprehensible amounts of informa- enal power. But the resulting feeling of tion during extended days of study to en- triumph makes the task worthwhile. courage growth of neurons and synapses. In the first year alone, twenty or thirty By the time they reach the age of thirteen, percent of the trainees go insane and, when they are preparing for their new brain although the proportion decreases implantation, the skulls of the apprentice after that, each year has its share of Mentreks are often three times as thick as “accidents.” But those who make their torsos. Of course, not all the children it to the end of this long period of are able to withstand the intense regimen training are now fully formed of cerebral augmentation, and with each Mentreks, members of a unique clan, advance to the next grade, the drop-out rate forever committed to their unquench- seems to average about 20%. Once the pro- able thirst for knowledge and capable gram is complete, another test is adminis- of contemplating the entire complex- tered. This time, the criteria are specifically ity of both the seen and unseen universe. physical, to determine whether or not the shape of the skull will actually allow the transplant. PRIVILEGES AND DUTIES Indeed, despite the conjoined efforts of armies of Techno- Once the years of training are finished, the indepen- Technos during the program, the bone structures of cer- dent Mentrek, who is no longer entirely human, makes tain subjects remain totally inflexible. These subjects, unfit his debut in the real world. However, life for them does for maximum utility, are eliminated. The others, whose not resemble the life of other citizens in the slightest. Their heads have attained the desired dimensions, have arrived sense of independence is not even remotely related to free at the time of the sacred implantation. will, nor do they enjoy the freedom of movement or all Currently, under Janus-Jana’s reign, the manufacture of the minor rights that are common for mortals. In order to Mentrek brains is under the exclusive domain of the Church leave the Mentrek Training Center on the Central Planet, of the Industrial Saints. Thus, only the human and robo- a Mentrek must be purchased by an authorized buyer. surgeons of the Techno-Techno Order are authorized to carry Once the negotiation has come to a successful conclu- out the installation of these technological marvels. The pro- sion, a subprogram is installed in the cybernetic portion cedure is not as simple as it seems. Not only does it require of his brain and the Mentrek is allowed to go serve his making a link between living and nonliving matter, which new master. requires proper compatibility to accommodate the interac- Since it is known that they are literally incapable of tive synergy of the organo-synthetic ebb and flow, but sev- lying, the Mentreks enjoy genuine respect from their peers. eral extremely precise mini-lobotomies must also be carried Primarily, it is the large Noble families and powerful out in order to maximize the brain’s abilities. For example, Maganats who acquire these extremely costly marvels of while intuitive analysis (anterio-temporal area of the left technology. The Mentreks are granted total independence hemisphere) is a very useful skill for Mentreks, compassion in the fulfillment of their new duties, since they can oper- and empathy (posterior medulla in the right hemisphere) ate in a sphere far above what most humans can compre- would obviously cause an undesirable reduction of efficiency. hend. The tasks they are given range from the drudgery Once these surgical processes are complete, the Mentrek of administrative accounting to the purity of intellectual is totally unhampered by useless human emotion and is and scientific speculation. But their true talent lies in de- able under all conditions to devote 100% of his faculties vising Machiavellian plots. More specifically, the Mentreks to deductive observation. But he is still just an adoles- who serve large families spend most of their time trying cent, and ahead lies a long path of learning to master his to predict the actions of members of other families and new abilities. discover any resulting opportunities for their masters to Then begins the final stage of Mentrek training. Over show off their merits before the Empire. In this sense, they the course of seven years, the most precocious and prom- are reverting to their original function of making calcula- stay within the nominated limits. In most cases, the mere tions for a complicated strategy game. But in activation of this procedure is enough to correct even the this game, more than just prestige is at stake. The most convoluted train of thought, but two other levels of influential Noble Houses compete fiercely to acquire intervention are also available for greater security. A 20% the most proficient Mentreks, since the outcomes of variation in three of the major parameters instantly trig- their calculation will either lead to new heights of shin- gers a lockdown of the Mentrek’s cerebral functions, fol- ing glory or to a sudden descent into permanent ruin. lowed by thorough scrutiny of all his neuro-transmitters In practice, the Mentreks have more duties than privi- and adjustments to four or five of the major parameters, leges, but since they have undergone a removal of the while a 25% variation of three parameters immediately

Chapter 3 • 38 neural connections that transmit emotion and feeling, triggers self-destruction of the brain. To this day, no such their duty weighs less heavily than a photon in the in- case has ever occurred. In the normal scope of their activ- terstellar void. ity, Mentreks rarely even suffer the slightest incident, and The life of a Mentrek has its share of joy, as when a many of them forget the existence of this electronic sword progression of cause and effect culminates precisely in the of Damocles hanging constantly above their heads. scenario he predicted and helped create. But, it also has Activation of any of these control routines is recorded its share of risk, as when the House he serves suffers a within the memory of the Central Brain of the Imperial reversal of fortune. The pan-Techno Church, which manu- Commission for Mentrek Surveillance. This organization, factures every component of the cybernetic brain, keeps under the Empire’s control, is guided by specialized ma- an extremely precise account of the Mentreks in active chines overseen by the Techno-Pope. Nevertheless, the pan- duty, at the same time grading them in order of profi- Techno Church has no power to control the Mentreks’ ciency. This hierarchy, based on the FishKarov scale, as- thoughts. But it can control the Mentreks themselves, or signs each Mentrek a specific rating and market value. even annihilate them. In the end, what makes these crea- The thousand highest-scoring Mentreks are automatically tures so interesting is that the seed of their own destruc- assigned to the Circle of Imperial Mentreks. So of course, tion has been planted within them, to compensate for their all the other Mentreks have the secret ambition of dem- tremendous capacity that could slide out of control, dis- onstrating in a spectacular manner that their worth is much rupting the presently stable structure of the Empire. Their greater than the rank they have been assigned. This pride lives are lived in the delicate balance between the extremes is the only manifestation of their independent will. But all of intellectual freedom and bodily subjugation. Of course, things considered, the Mentreks are fundamentally slaves, there is a way for them to cheat destiny, by thwarting whose only escape lies in dreamlike fantasies of algebra Techno-Techno domination. and geometry. All things considered, the cybernetic locking mechanism MENTREK DECONNECTION implanted within their brains effectively reduces them to To be exact, there are two methods for deconnecting a mere thinking machines.. Cut off from their free will, they Mentrek and delivering him from the grip of Techno- are denied their humanity. The Imperial Commission of Techno control. Either the technological tumor that gov- Mentrek Surveillance constantly keeps a close watch on erns his mind is simply removed, or its functions are by- them, putting all of their actions through a screen and passed in a more dramatic manner. The first option en- analyzing even the smallest piece of advice they give.. Of tails an extremely intricate and dangerous surgical opera- course, finding an idea within an idea or a conspiracy tion, requiring the work of a specialized robo-surgeon. behind a conspiracy is extremely difficult, so it is hard to The procedure involves removing the mechanisms that tell whether a Mentrek is acting on his own. So far, such a separate the rational from the emotional. At this time, case has never come up, and these craftsmen of the mind only the few “dissident” robots won over to the cause of seem to be content to fulfill the ambitions of their mas- the chromosomal force known as White Energy consent ters. But their powers are so great that the risk is always to perform it. present. What if all the Mentreks decided to act in league Of course, the dissident robots themselves are outcasts with each other to achieve indirect domination of the mercilessly hunted throughout the Empire. In the eyes of universe by simple influence over the actions of the the Church of the Industrial Saints, they are not only her- Empire’s decision-makers…? etics but also traitors who pose a threat to the workings of To counter that possibility, the Techno-Techno factory- the world and the power of the Techno-Technos. However, labs routinely install a multi-purpose program into the the robots are not so easy to find. Although the surveillance Mentreks’ brains, which has the ability to launch one of equipment used by the pan-Techno Church is absolutely the dozens of failsafe control routines at the slightest sign unsurpassed, it can only give totally predictable results when of overactivity, indicated by a 10% variation from the dealing with humans. When used against a foe who pos- subject’s individual mean in three out of five major pa- sesses the same resources they do, the systems, machines, rameters (chemical balance of amino acids, neurological and robots of the pan-Techno Church find themselves stale- fluid pressure, cerebro-electrical activity, pH level in the mated, and therefore the dissident robots are effectively gastric system, and temperature/hygrometry of the epi- undetectable. They can infiltrate circuits, creep into systems, dermis in the lumbar region). This automatic program re- and hack into networks without being spotted. However, establishes the Mentrek’s internal balance by hypno-regu- their conversion to a new faith modifies their energy signa- lation, which to a certain degree forces his thoughts to ture. In the bounds of virtual reality, they can operate unde- tected, but in the real world, they’d be caught instantly by any competent cybo-cop, unless of course its own systems most hardened, most determined, and most 39 • The Factions and controls were being hacked into. Their lives too are merciless warriors imaginable are forged. lived in a delicate balance. In any case, in various locations throughout the universe, generally in the depths of Endocities SELECTION AND TRAINING in the very heart of the Techno-Techno system, there exist Great is the scope of the Endoguard. Primitive robots who paradoxically show qualities of great humanity peoples in the farthest reaches of the universe whisper by sometimes helping Mentreks recover their freedom of its name with fear and respect. To suffer and die for it will and thought. is an honor. Life within the Endoguard is extremely In practice, any Mentrek who takes this drastic step severe, and it is arranged like an order of warrior-clergy becomes an outcast himself. Freedom has a price and the who give themselves fully to the higher cause of mili- risks are enormous, for his own head is literally at stake. tary efficiency. But the choice to enlist is not a voluntary From that point on, he will have to maintain constant one. Every family in the Empire that is even remotely vigilance. A simple holo-mask will not suffice to deceive connected to a Noble line must donate its firstborn son to the Central Processor’s police forces, so camouflage and the military force. Thus, hundreds of thousands and some- concealment will make up the daily existence of any times even millions of children report every year to the deconnected Mentrek. Besides, Techno-Techno officials Endoguard Training School, created specifically for this are not their only enemies. A free Mentrek is no longer purpose by the Empire. catalogued or supervised, but by the same token, he can- Although the sons of the Nobility are obliged to join not count on the slightest protection. He becomes prey, the Empire’s army, many of them do not have the natural and there are many predators who dream of getting ac- qualities that make them great soldiers. For that reason, a cess to his store of information by transplanting his head program of Maximized Special Aptitude Training was onto another human host. This procedure is extremely developed by the greatest specialists and researchers at dangerous, and it is attempted only rarely. However, since the dawn of the modern Imperial age. The program evolves information is power, certain groups will do anything to in two stages, each designed to intensify the two separate get their hands on this nearly infinite supply of data, even criteria of tactical intuition and physio-mechanical prow- if doing so means death for the carrier and the sacrifice of ess. For the first stage, which lasts until the children are an immense number of hosts in abortive attempts. twelve years old, an evaluation of physical and psycho- A much less technically demanding way to deconnect a logical characteristics is carried out on each subject, in Mentrek is to have a priest-mutant dose him with Amorine. accordance with extremely precise codified standards.. A Thanks to the power of the Amorine flower, initiates to scale is then developed from each of those profiles. In the the Cult of Neuro-Emotions are able to counteract and second stage, from age twelve to age nineteen, the adoles- destroy the traces of the Techno-Technos’ hold over their cents are put through hyperintensive training, including soul. Any Mentrek who lavishes himself with a full dose neuro-mnemonic induction drills, cerebral surgery, and of Amorine can expect the artificial imbalance to be over- whatever other forms of corrective operations are deemed come, which leads to the recovery of his entire capacity necessary to produce an optimal balance of the two crite- for emotion and intuition. His lost humanity returns, but ria. The program never fails, and at the end of trainingm at the same time, he retains all the faculties provided to each Endoguard will possess a perfect 50/50 competency him by his training. Of course, depending on the Mentrek’s ratio of maximized aptitudes in physio-mechanical prow- innermost character, this change might be for the better ess and tactical intuition. or for the worse. The Mentrek who previously served his There are many practical steps involved in the different masters’ ambitions is now free to put his power to the stages of Endoguard training. In their first week of life, service of his own ambition. after they are taken from their families and placed in the official Endoguard Training School, a tracer-chip is im- MENTREK CHARACTERS planted at the base of their medullas, in order to provide If you play the Metabarons Roleplaying Game, you can personally tailored telemetric tracking of each subject’s find templates for defused Mentreks on page 271 of the physical and psychological parameters. Preliminary apti- rule book and page 43 of the Companion Book to the tude curves are plotted, after which each infant benefits Game Master Screen. If you would like to use these as from individual corrective actions designed to shore up generic characters, add 7D to 14D (depending on how their weak points (a nutritional regimen, neuro-psycho- experienced the characters should be) to the template skills. logical calibration by electric shocks, mini-lobotomies of Mentreks who are not diffused will not have any Agility- the areas that control emotion and empathy, and surgical type skills, nor will they have any equipment and little upgrades of the loco-motor apparatus and neurological individuality. systems). Aside from these exterior measures, the babies are led along a complete program of development and THE ENDOGUARD training. They must acquire the basic building blocks nec- The Endoguard, a fighting force unrivalled anywhere essary for coordinated movement (walking, running, jump- in the Empire, is an elite unit that accepts only the bravest ing, fighting, dodging) but also an understanding of tacti- combatants into its ranks. But bravery is of little use with- cal situations (evaluation of danger, optimal timing for out training, and the Endoguard is a crucible in which the attack and defense, identification of escape routes). In directly by the level above it, from the Minister of War addition to teaching them all these skills, ev- (General Thato) down to the rank-and-file Endoguards, erything is done to promote the natural instinct through the intermediary ranks of colonel, commander, for savagery that lies dormant in every being. For captain, lieutenant, and sergeant. The Gargat provides an example, the children are forbidden to lie down and increased degree of initiative and free will with every ad- must become accustomed to sleeping upright. The ti- vance through the ranks. niest slip results in an electric shock administered by The young Endoguards selected in the competition join remote control. Although the food they are given pro- the force with the rank of cadet and are assigned to a vides a balanced supply of vitamins, proteins, and other fighting unit. The Endoguard cadets hardly have the power

Chapter 3 • 40 essentials, it is totally devoid of any flavor. All minor to speak. They express themselves in brief, hoarse shouts, pleasures of existence are forbidden to them, as is any and although they carry out complex missions, their ca- recreational activity. The only so-called games that are pacity to analyze a given scenario remains negligible, which permitted are the ones that encourage an unbridled ex- means that they cannot act or react outside the frame- pression of violence. Competition and confrontation are work of their orders. They can annihilate entire villages, systematically encouraged. The young soldiers are never ward off retaliation, and entrap pockets of resistance, but shown any sign of affection. They occasionally receive if they receive information that the left flank of their troops gifts of small animal-like creatures, but only with orders is in trouble, they cannot make the decision to provide to torture or kill them. All in all, everything is done to reinforcements. Those who survive the longest are pro- develop their aggressive potential to the highest degree. moted to the next rank. Age twelve marks a turning point in the life of an An Endoguard sergeant, however, can address the larger Endoguard. At this stage of development, his medulla is analytical picture. He leads a group of about a hundred ready to receive the Gargat, a Netranekkon shaft that men and can use them in an effective and efficient man- annihilates his individuality and reconfigures it around ner. At the level of lieutenant, he might lead up to a thou- an exterior will. In this case, it is the will of the Emperoress sand men, and so forth up the ranks. At the same time, an that is imposed by the direct flow of the chain of com- Endoguard recovers more of his faculties of memory and mand. It must be emphasized that the Gargat represents reasoning with every promotion, which enriches his vo- the only use of cybernetic implantation. As a result, each cabulary. A general, for example, may enter the salons of Endoguard is completely self-reliant: his physical force is the Nobility without embarrassment. not augmented by mechanical prostheses,but rather hard- To say that the Endoguards are like robots isn’t entirely ened by exercise and increased tenfold by chemical, elec- true: robots have a much broader range of functions. On trical, and mechanical stimulation of his various systems the other hand, to say that they are dedicated killing ma- (neurological, musculo-tendonary, and skeletal). His war- chines is completely accurate. Until his assignment to an rior instinct is not augmented by a device that influences active unit at the age of nineteen, each Endoguard trains his decision, but rather developed to its fullest by every single day to handle all conceiv- unrelenting training and the systematic develop- able weaponry, as well as all ment of his aggressive instinct and combat sense. known techniques However, the standard kit of an Endoguard (and there are includes a wide range of external devices de- many) signed to improve his physical performance: highly resistant armor, poly-mimetic uniforms with extensive camouflage abilities, mecha- nized exoskeletons for operations in very high gravity, automatic guidance for their aiming systems, and so forth. Such a high standard of equipment was developed with one goal in mind — to enable each Endoguard to survive in any environment and confront any enemy with any conceivable weapon. He can harness the full potential of even the most trivial item and turn any harmless object into a lethal weapon. Just before the installation of the Gargat, an initiatory competition is held to select the most fearsome combatants from each year of the Endoguard Training School. Those individuals who show greater malice, determination, and barbarity than the rest soon form the backbone of the regiments. For in the Endoguard, each level is commanded for eradicating life in all its forms. As a result, they are obviously skilled operators of all existing artillery equip- In times when they are not compelled by ga- 41 • The Factions ment, infallible sharpshooters, silent and efficient com- lactic crisis to maintain a battlefront far away from mandos, tireless marchers, seasoned pilots and naviga- habitable worlds, the Endoguard devotes itself to tors, and formidable warriors with nonprojectile weap- the traditional military activities of maintaining peace ons, including sticks and hand-to-hand combat. What’s and order. The Empire usually relies on surprise, let- more, they are totally impervious to pain and demonstrate ting out their dogs of war before even thinking of com- staunch bravery at every occasion. Indeed, the removal of mencing negotiations. Whether it’s a planet plunged certain irrelevant brain matter protects them from the into chaos, an Endocity troubled by anarchy, or a mi- paralysis of indecision. nor increase in revolutionary fervor in a given sector of After his comprehensive training is finished, each the universe, the discouraging presence of the purple Endoguard is an expert in any field, capable of assuming Endoguard quickly brings even the most stubborn mili- duties in any one of the army’s specialized units: Lancet tant uprising to heel. The strategy of the Endoguard is pilot units assigned to the hunt, spatial engineering units of course based solely on violence. No subtlety, no pre- assigned in different regiments primarily to supply and tense, not the slightest reconnaissance, no psychological communications, and countless fighting units capable of tactics, just pure brute strength. Victory or annihilation. performing in any surroundings. And annihilation it is, at least for the reckless dreamers who thought they could take on the huge bull without MISSIONS OF THE ENDOGUARD getting the horns. In addition, like any typical army, the The Endoguard’s military might is absolutely colossal. Endoguard devotes the rest of its time to training. Their Its efficiency in conquest is feared and dreaded. To this life is war, and war is their life. Peace does not exist, and day, the battle for Marmola is the only defeat it has ever if they find war is occurring less frequently, they create it. suffered, although in that case it was not acting under As General Thato says, “The universe is so large there’s orders. The various races and creatures that have the ill always bound to be some conflict somewhere.” fortune to see their skies suddenly darken with Endoguard But their primary mission, and the field in which they lancets can only appeal to providence or to their gods. truly excel, is conquest. The sight of their purple vessels Even today, some cultures put up savage resistance, but taking position in the upper stratosphere of a planet be- there is no limit to the destructive power of the Endoguard. fore releasing swarms of transports and assault ships that When in difficulty, the army can depend on the arsenal of swoop down toward the surface like paleo-vultures is an weapons supplied by the Techno-Technos, whose imagi- unforgettable spectacle. And to watch Endoguard platoons native designs provide everything from the famous stan- subdue a continent is no less spectacular. dard-issue multi-cogan to immense systems of kinetic destruction, capable of leveling a planet’s surface from high THE SUPREME ENDOGUARD orbit. There are various other weapons of controlled le- The Endoguard’s strength and durability is like a rock, thality, which permit the Endoguard to adjust the level of but unfortunately so is their level of finesse. If by some damage to the circumstances in order to obtain uncondi- chance their brutal force does not prevail, the Endoguard tional surrender. And finally, if their opponents prove in- would find itself incapable of acting or reacting. Of course, tractable, the Endoguard can always resort to Biokill or that situation has not arisen to this day, but it is always Biocidex waves, two weapons of incomprehensible de- possible that somewhere in the universe the Endoguard structive capacity, which have the unfortunate side effect will encounter some race, some force, or some form of of wiping out absolutely all forms of life. intelligent life with powers they cannot match. In addi- Of course, with such means at their disposal, there is tion, that is not the only risk, for it could be imagined scarcely any force in all the galaxies that can match their that some demented will within the Empire itself could power, but the universe is wide and they cannot be every- steer the Endoguard troops onto the wrong path. If so, where at once. So although their primary mission is to the automatic and unquestioning fanaticism it uses to carry enforce peace for the Emperoress, it would be infeasible out its missions could lead to disastrous consequences. for their purple vessels to maintain a constant presence What would happen if someone had access to the deci- across the entire universe. Normally, patrolling duties are sion-making mechanisms of the Endoguard, and gave them left to the local armies on the Maganat and Colonial plan- instructions to completely reduce the universe to rubble? ets loyal to the Empire. In certain exceptional circum- Thanks to His-Her boundless foresight, and perhaps stances, such as trouble stirred up by some galacto-bar- also to some advice from a wise Mentrek, the Emperoress baric tribe, the Endoguard is immediately sent in to as- instituted a plan to counter any such eventuality. After sist, and their presence alone will tip the scales of the battle. all, the Endoguard’s great force is also its greatest weak- However, skirmishes at the edge of the universe are rare ness. Its reinforced brutality is also its Achilles’ heel. The these days. More frequently, the Endoguard will be sent Empire exerts total control over all the workings of the off to track down pirates, but usually with limited suc- Endoguard and can therefore always count on their flaw- cess. Although they manage to do some damage, the less warlike enthusiasm and utter loyalty. But the com- greater mobility of the pirate bands usually allows them mand structure is as dense and unresponsive as a paleo- to escape. A more crucial factor is that to this day, their brick wall and could suddenly become unmanageable, lairs have never been found. precisely because of the overabundant powers at its dis- Agility 4D: brawling 5D, dodge 5D, firearms 6D, me- posal. To prevent this possibility, among other lee combat 5D, running 5D. Knowledge 2D: survival 4D. reasons, the Supreme Endoguard was formed. Mechanical 3D: gunnery 4D, piloting 4D, vehicle opera- On the surface, the Supreme Endoguard is sim- tion 4D. Perception 3D+1: search 4D+1. Strength 3D+2: ply the most elite branch of an army that already has lift 5D+2, stamina 5D+2. Technical 3D. Psionics 0D. no equal. It is designed to be the last line of defense Move 10. Character Points 3. Amarax Points 0. Honor around the Emperoress if the need arises. But in truth, Code: Rayah. Equipment: multi-cogan rifle (6D damage), it is much more than that. Its 10,000 members are se- combat shock knife (STR+1D+2 damage), Endoguard lected according to their IQ, an irrelevant criterion in armor (+2D STR to resist damage; –1D Agility), helmet

Chapter 3 • 42 the case of the regular Endoguard. Therefore, the Su- with range goggles (+3D to long-range Perception and preme Endoguard has the advantage, because its sol- search rolls), comm headset. Note: Cadets will proceed diers can contemplate, analyze, perceive, or comprehend with their current orders, reguardless of the consequences motivations and interactions between people, in addi- to themselves or others, until their superior — and only tion to sequences of cause and effect. This allows them to the correct superior — gives them a new one. get to the bottom of tangled webs of intrigue, as well as take command and act with complete autonomy in any THE SHABDA-OUD delicate situation. Upon full consideration, each man’s rare abilities make him a tremendous asset to the Empire but THE ORIGINS OF THE also a potential mortal danger, a viper at its breast. To HOLY SHABDA-OUD MYSTERY ensure the loyalty of these elite soldiers with no roots, no These women, feared so connections, and no past, who have developed their much they are dubbed minds, the most dangerous weapon of all, Janus- “witches” and “whore- Jana has them injected at a very young age with nuns,” are servants of the a microbe so potent that no vaccine can com- god Jejoh and members of a pletely cure it. Then, in order not to un- highly influential female order. The dergo a horribly painful death, they Shabda-Oud order was destined to be must take an antidote at regular and immensely powerful right from the outset. relatively frequent intervals. The It was founded by Techno-Popess Argatah af- antidote’s formula is a secret known ter she broke off all contact with her lover, the only to the Emperoress. Church of the Industrial Saints, taking with Although the Supreme Endoguard pre- her some of the Church’s best-guarded secrets. sents a tremendous internal threat to the Em- From far off in space, she could easily have pire, it is a truly fascinating unit. It not only guaran- conquered an entire section of the universe tees personal protection to the Emperoress, but it is sent single-handedly and become its empress or out to assist on any missions that require a delicate and divinity. Yet her chance travels through the out- subtle touch. For example, they might carry out infiltra- ermost reaches of space dictated otherwise. tion, exfiltration, espionage, recovery, sabotage, theft, or Two meetings were to mold her fate. In the outer reaches seduction, in all conditions and all environments on all of space where the darkness is like an all-consuming liv- types of worlds. In this way, the most elite soldiers of the ing liquid, the Techno-Popess stumbled upon a giant most elite army are grouped into an ultra-secret unit in planet-sized female whale in labor. Driven from her hid- order to carry out a variety of tasks, both noble and base, ing place, the animal started to charge the tiny ship that for the greater glory of the Sacred Androgyne. had dared disturb her. But just as her brain was convert- FURTHER READING ing her reflex into a conscious order, a domineering force in amplified Alpha waves overcame her will. Before she The Metabarons Guidebook #1 to Path of the Warrior could even fight, the whale was subdued. presents some additional notes on the Black Endoguard Argatah screened every part of her vast stellar captive’s (pages 10–11), the Purple Endoguard (page 11), and the mind and body and found to her delight that this enor- Supreme Endoguard (page 15). mous and virtually indestructible mass was about to give If you’re playing the Metabarons Roleplaying Game, birth to seven baby females. And, since good things al- realize that, in general, no one plays an Endoguard. The ways come in pairs, her mental structure showed the seeds will of the individual Endoguard is totally controlled by of a distinct submissive inclination. The Techno-Popess those in the rank above. Nonetheless, it is a remote possi- used a subtle process of hypno-mental induction, alter- bility that there are descendants of the Black Endoguard nating periods of strict punishment and consolation, to from the botched Marmola mission. They now would be make the whale as devoted to her as a bashful lover is to guns-for-hire, working on assignments as far from the his mistress. The seven babies underwent the same treat- center of the Empire as possible. ment, and with a technological arsenal attached to her TYPICAL ENDOGUARD CADET creatures, the Techno-Popess found herself at the head of This generic character can be used with the Metabarons a formidable and invincible fleet. Roleplaying Game. Later in her exploration of the stellar ice floes, she discovered a Jejoh trapped in the salty ice. This simple creature with his supreme conquering drive opened up new horizons for her. His burning energizing fluid largely made Oda, who he sent to infiltrate the heart of the 43 • The Factions up for his rustic intellect. Now with a fleet, technological Shabda movement, Aghnar challenged and fought power and a god, or as good as, all that was left for the the god Jejoh and the order’s novices and superiors. former Techno dignitary to do was to gather followers He had to use all the psycho-magic skills his mother and launch the takeover of the Empire. had taught him to win the epic telepathic duel and liquefy the murderous witches’ spirits. Yet Oda’s brain THE RISE OF THE ORDER also succumbed to the assault, and the order’s seven With the troops recruited, the order set to work on a cetacyborgs were on the verge of killing Aghnar when huge galactic plan to take over Imperial power. The idea Honorata appeared from the beyond to save him. As a was to create a perfect Hermaphrodite that the order senior initiate aware of the fabulous organic vessels’ would control. Unfortunately for the Shabda-Oud witches, weak point, she alone could defeat them. this ambitious scheme was also to be their downfall. To Yet what the anguished Aghnar and Honorata did not increase its chances of success, the order carefully chose know was that the Shabda-Oud order had not been com- its most beautiful followers and trained them in the subtle pletely destroyed. Far off on the stellar ice floe, deep in mysteries of sexual energy. And Jejoh taught them just the Prime Temple, the ten mother superiors had watched how far sensual pleasure could be taken with the “wak- the destruction of Planet Diamond and the cetacyborgs ing of the hundred flowers” rite. The Shabda followers from afar. And they were already preparing to rekindle then used their thorough mental control of every part of the Shabda flame and form the order of the Neo-Shabda- their bodies to give their sexual partners the pleasure that Oud. would enslave them. Hundreds of strictly trained young Shabda novices were sent out into the universe with a FURTHER READING mission to seduce and enslave the most suitable repro- The Metabarons Guidebook #1 to Path of the Warrior ducers —the richest and most powerful and dependable contains several discussions of the Shabda-Oud and some —and be fertilized by the genes most likely to create the of their resources. Information on cetacyborgs can be perfect Hermaphrodite. This program continued for thou- found on pages 47–48 of this book. Details on the Neo- sands of years without any great success until one day, Shabda-Oud is located on pages 48–50. the Empire offered Honorata — a young accomplished If you are playing the Metabarons Roleplaying Game, novice — to Metabaron Othon. you can find generic Neo-Shabda-Oud characters on pages 50–53 of Guidebook #1. Pages 53–57 of the same book AND DOWNFALL… offer hooks and sketches for adventures involving the Neo- The operation was very nearly a success. Shabda-Oud. Out of her overwhelming love for Othon, Honorata If you’re looking for a Neo-Shabda-Oud template, that’s pulled off nothing short of a miracle. She bypassed the on page 281 of the rule book. Information on how the normal course of nature and fertilized one of her eggs at psionics of the Shabda-Oud work in game terms can be subcellular level with a drop of Othon’s blood. But in- found on pages 83–89 of the rule book. stead of giving birth to the perfect Hermaphrodite the Shabda priestesses so yearned for, she had a son fit to THE METABARON succeed his father. The purest and deep- No Name was born in the year est of emotions had changed the course 29970, son of his father-mother of history. With their ambitions Inquisition Aghora and distant descendant of thwarted, the Shabda-Oud witches de- After Argatah’s defection, Baron Dayal de Castaka, who took clared war against the most powerful all of the Techno-Techno over the planet Marmola and absorbed war machine in the universe. Othon Order’s nuns suspected of the spirit of the legendary Gangez bird, managed to destroy one of the suppos- sympathizing with their se- one of the six Gargales of the universe. edly invincible cetacyborgs in the first cessionist Techno-Popess Heir to the Bushitaka tradition and battle, but it was a bitter victory. Othon underwent an ordered as- from a long line of invincible had contracted an incurable disease and sault from the Techno-in- metawarriors — in turn adventurers, Honorata had to sacrifice herself. Left quisitors. The majority how- mercenaries, and soldiers of the Em- alone, Aghnar, sonof Honorata and ever, remained faithful to the pire — the reigning Metabaron is hero Othon, succeeded his father and vowed Magnus Dei, but an impla- of the human race and champion of to hunt down and destroy the Shabda- cable handful of devotees the Empire. He is a self-styled, protec- Oud. escaped and went into hid- tive shadow who brings both hope and While Aghnar was polishing his ing. Hunted throughout threat to man. With the spirit of weapons, the Shabda witches were still space, they remained con- Gangez in him, No Name has all the trying to pull off their pipe dream. Once cealed for two long standard power of one of the guardians of the again, tragic and cruel fate brought the years, until Argatah sent six gateways of the universe. Yet he order of the whore-nuns face to face them a mental message…. does not give a damn about the duties with the Metabaron in a brutal clash. of his office and uses his powers solely With the help of his beautiful beloved for his own personal pleasure. THE CASTE Othon, No Name’s great-great-grandfather, was the first true Metabaron. He took the tradition of humble service to the Mardador gateway and the epiphyte to a higher level and transcended the Bushitaka. Yet nothing set him up for such a life, except perhaps his obstinate and cast-iron Chapter 3 • 44 determin-ation. Othon was actually a common orphan from the gutter. Before marrying into the family, he was nothing more than a space desperado who hung out with the wreckage looters and ship hijackers. They had even usurped the identity of the Noble von Salza, who gave up without a fight when they boarded his luxury space- yacht. Yet once on board the pi- 1: The Non-Baron rate ship, von Dayal of Castaka Salza smugly in- (13626–28686) formed the 2: The Mono-Duchess young Othon Antigréa of Castaka that his yacht (13628–13660) obeyed him alone 3: The Twins and that an invio- Myrtha and Narda lable iris-based (13645–?) identity detector 4: The Non-Baron prevented any- Berard of Castaka one from taking (29820–29892) his place. Othon 5: Edna Berard of calmly returned Castaka his self-satisfied (29861–29892) smile. Then he 6: The Metabaron jumped on him, Othon von Salza got him in a half (29857–29913) nelson, and 7: Honorata ripped out his (29872–29918/29951) eyes. 8: Bari of Castaka Othon’s enroll- (29876–29892) ment with the 9: The Metabaron Castaka Caste Aghnar von Salza did not redeem (29893–29951) him, but it did el- 10: Supra-Princess evate him Oda the Capricious through his ob- (29899–29918) servance of 11: Doña Vicenta Bushitaka and Gabriela of Rokha strict adherence (29931-29992) to personal life 12: The Metabaron principles. This Steelhead/Melmoth move also set in von Salza motion a tragic (29919–29969) chain of events 13: The Metabaron scored with Aghorha von Salza death. Othon (29952–29989) and each Meta- 14: The Metabaron baron in turn — No Name Aghnar, Steel- (29970–) head, and Aghora — would subsequently embark

45 • The Factions on personal crusades during which they The Value and of the Gangez bird’s incred- would battle with the major forces of Number of Years ibly hard spinal cord salvaged the universe or at least the great Pillars Othon was just fourteen- by Baron Dayal de Castaka. The of the Empire. The Metabaron’s aura years-old when he took von Metapistol is the only one of its and ruthlessness grew with each vic- Salza’s vessel, eyes, and iden- kind with such special properties. tory. His battles — and the battles of tity. He found two young It is designed to fire huge silver bul- his forefathers — helped each Meta- boys on board, eight-year- lets at stellar werewolves, those baron realize his true vocation, and so old twin brothers Konrath enormouse hairy creatures that each found himself becoming increas- and Hohenhole, who were roam through space from full moon ingly more detached from the rest of living in slavery as von to full moon. humankind floating in the Necro- Salza’s servants. He took Dream. FURTHER READING them along with everything Today, No Name is condemned to a else, and the twins never left Naturally, you can follow the history life of roaming solitude, tirelessly pur- his side. of the Metabaron lineage in the pages sued by his equally ruthless enemies. of The Metabarons comic series (which He has fled and hidden in another uni- are also compiled in trade paperbacks). verse, entered using his “living gate- The Metabarons Guidebook #1 to way” power, returning only when absolutely necessary. Path of the Warrior offers a great deal of information THE TESTS gleaned from and inspired by the pages of the first trade paperback. You might, in particular, find these parts most To become the Metabaron, it’s not enough to be born interesting. into the right family. The child must also prove his wor- thiness. He first demonstrates his readiness to pursue the PEOPLE IN THE METABARONS LINE mantle of Metabaron by enduring ritual mutilation. In • Non-Baron Berard of Castaka, page 9 general, this ritual happens after years of intense and vio- • Lady Edna of Castaka, page 8 lent training. After this point, the future Metabaron’s true • Metabaron Othan von Salza, pages 12–13 training begins. The child — perhaps a young adult by • Bari of Castaka, page 10 now — refines his honor code and further develops his • Honorata, pages 15–16 abilities as a formidable soldier. For it is only by force, • Agnar, page 20 through the death of his father, that the child can become SERVANTS TO THE METABARONS LINE the supreme warrior of the universe. • Konrath, page 9 THE ARSENAL • Hohenhole, pages 9–10 The Metabaron has long been ahead of his adversaries • Iku-Tta, pages 4–5 and has lost his taste for combat. Isolated and eternally alone, • Ika-Tua and Ika-Toa, pages 5, 6 No Name lives in long, excruciating boredom. This might PLACES be his fate as a living gateway, but the Metabaron’s fanati- • Marmola, pages 22–23 cal individualism and sharp awareness of his caste’s dra- • Okhar, pages 23–25 matic lot in life have driven him to expand and transform • Anasirma (on Okhar), page 36 his office. He neither chose nor was chosen to be Gargale. He became so simply because the official Gargale passed TECHNOLOGY his position and powers on to him. Since that act, with blithe • bio-electrogram, pages 27–28 disregard for the universal balance, his immeasurable mine • gun sword, page 28 of power has made him equal to a god in the Human Uni- • Maxi-protonic Tower, 30 verse. Nobody can challenge him, not even the Empire and • Metabunker, pages 38–40 all its Endoguards. Yet, he is still mortal like all the guard- • robo-killer, page 37 ians. But No Name is far from easy prey. His remarkable • sparring robot, page 27 Metabaron arsenal of fantastic, ultimate-technological weap- • Tri-H torpedoes, pages 34–35 ons — including the Metacraft, the Metabunker, and the HONOR CODE Tri-H bombs that he casually sets off — is combined with the fabulous sources of power he can harness to form a What sets the Metabaron apart from ordinary human- lethal extension of his own will. ity is the honor code he follows. You can get more infor- With his size and power, the Metabaron is undoubt- mation about the Bushitaka Honor Code on page 38 of edly one of the most fascinating figures in the universe. the rule book and on pages 5–6 the Companion Book to the Game Master Screen. THE FAMILY ARMS There are two particularly important weapons in the THE PIRATES Metabaron arsenal: the Metasword and the Metapistol. The pirates operate everywhere in space, robbing and The nearly indestructible telescopic Metasword is made pillaging transporter vessels that cross the cosmos. The that some pirate commandos have been jettisoned in a authorities give this name to an extremely wide jet suit, armed only with a formidable negative mine. They range of individuals. In short, anyone that the reach the tunnel’s shell, arm it, and the released antimat- Empire can gain from eliminating is called a “pi- ter pierces a gaping hole in the defenses. rate” — from rebels revolting against oppression by The pirate flagship is generally an Ostrov-class ship. It the Nobles through petty thieves to your average Joe is from here that the pirate captain directs operations unlucky enough to offend someone with more power. from his position set back some stellar cable’s length from But in actual fact, the buccaneering fraternity only ac- the battle. If victory smiles on the buccaneers, it is here cepts organized bands that do enough pirating to be too that the booty is divvied up and the party begins.

Chapter 3 • 46 hunted by the Empire’s forces. The pirates form a soci- The most callous pirates systematically kill human cap- ety of their own, which sometimes counteracts the tives, though they will use more valuable hostages to save Empire’s power and control. There are countless inde- their own skins. pendent bands operating close to their hideouts, as well as larger bands capable of devising and carrying out much RITES AND TALES more ambitious plans. These terrifying cohorts of damned souls generally have The most famous of these groups is without doubt Cap- little respect for anything, but they do like a certain form tain Kaiman’s band. of tradition. For example, the sharing out of the booty and R&R on Hispanola or Tortuga are always followed STRUCTURE AND ACTIVITIES by a week-long orgy. Guanaguachca liqueur, the pirates’ The organized bands of pirates are havens for outcasts favorite tipple, flows freely at these events. They often from the Empire and the universe. They comprise men, also take Tranka — the famous dangerous drug that re- women, mutants, and all kinds of creatures who have crossed lieves the harmful effects of the Necro-Dream, if you man- the red line of no return. Their only hope of survival is to age to survive it. flee, always staying one step ahead of the Empire’s forces. Along the same lines, it is common practice to haze For most of them, it would be instant suicide to go to an newcomers. This can range from savage teasing to pure even remotely civilized world. However, their immense re- sadism. The pirates also respect the ritual for prisoners sources mean that they can sustain networks and branches with no market value: the pretty women are eagerly raped that reach far into the very heart of the Imperial adminis- and the men thrown into space. They are forced into air tration itself. Gold works miracles. The petty traffickers and locks from which they are violently sucked into the void, smugglers tolerated by the authorities are their go-betweens, much to the amusement of the crew gathered in the gang- their eyes and ears in society. ways. And no pirate ship would even think about going The pirates are masters in the art of camouflage. They on a raid without running up a holographic skull and can hide on the smallest asteroid and the tiniest comet. crossbones flag. They do whatever it takes to obtain the weapons and The pirates love to screech songs about illustrious pi- technology they need to get the better rates who are examples to the younger of the StellCom patrols and the local generations. Top of the list is obviously militia. The Endoguard units are the Hispanola and Captain Kaiman. Then there’s “Cop- only real thorn in their side, but there Tortuga per Beard,” the fearsome armless are too few of them to pacify all the While they are hounded woman pirate with her strange but zones in space. So, like a huge game of throughout the cosmos, the magnificent shiny red beard, who per- hide-and-seek, they play games with pirates do have two safe sonally decapitates her prisoners. Next the authorities and lay their traps on places where they can rest in comes “Hardheart the Cannibal,” the well-traveled routes before disappear- total safety. Although the au- mutant shark-headed pirate who de- ing into the desolate vastness of space. thorities think that these vours his victims, and “Devil Shadow,” Their favorite hunting grounds are places are pure myth, the mysterious figure of a black pirate around the Techno-Tunnels in the huge Hispanola and Tortuga re- whose face has never been seen. This perimeter surrounding the portals, ally do exist. They are vast may seem like a pleasant portrait gal- where heavy vessels have to operate at hollow planets teeming with lery, but don’t forget that the pirate less than the speed of light. Here, they exotically varied life where world is mainly one of fear and vio- spring out in swarms and swoop down extraordinary trade has de- lence, and that life in their world is the on their prey. The pirate frigates and veloped. In particular, all cheapest commodity. brigs rush to the attack. Their speed sorts of illegal artificial limbs THE FIVE LEADING PIRATE and daring in this delicate maneuver is are sold to proud wounded wondrous to behold. Show no mercy! pirates to replace their am- COMMUNITIES The defense batteries punch mortal putated limbs without any holes in the pirates’ ranks, but the law risk of falling into the THE WRECKERS of numbers is on their side. They clutches of the Techno- This group, commanded by the leg- quickly manage to open a breach and Technos. endary Captain Kaiman, has long been scramble for the spoils. There are tales plundering intersidereal space. Their “mythical hideout” Tortuga is 47 • The Factions The Corsairs PIRATE TEMPLATE said to be in the The Corsairs are cousins Bathalgar-gamma This template can be used with the Metabarons of the pirates, although they system, but no Roleplaying Game. Suggested skills are given after the would take offence at being one has ever governing attribute. called so. They have exactly found it. Not sur- Agility 3D+1: brawling, dodge, firearms, melee com- the same customs and prac- prising really, bat, running. Knowledge 2D: survival. Mechanical tices, but they act under or- since it is inside a 3D+2: comm, gunnery, piloting. Perception 3D: con, ders from one or another hollow asteroid. gaming, search. Strength 3D: lift, stamina. Technical powerful caste, generally the Kaiman was born 3D: demolitions, flight systems repair, personal equip- Ekonomat. Their combat a Noble, but he ment repair. Psionics 0D. Move 10. Character Points 5. techniques are more sophis- was abandoned Amarax Points 1. Honor Code: Rayah. Equipment: Ar- ticated since they generally by his family be- mored vest (+1D STR to resist damage, torso only), heavy have inside information, cause he had a service pistol (5D damage), jumpsuit, 2 kublars. which makes their attacks mutation. Al- less risky. The Ekonomat HE ERCENARIES though he keeps T M Corsairs also have an addi- the Paleo-Nobilis These seemingly free men who take on and fight for tional advantage in the form principles, he any cause for the noble motive of money are actually lack- of awesome stacked hyper- deeply hates the eys of the most powerful secret group in the universe: the desiccating weapons. Empire and the order of the Techno-Technos. Nobility. THE DEATH TRADE THE BLOODSUCKERS Never in the history of humanity has life been so cheap The pirates under the fierce iron rule of Captain and never have the motives for making war been so many Hardheart — a mutant who inherited the head, aggres- and the weapons so terrifying. So it is inevitable that skilled siveness, and insatiable bloodthirstiness of a shark — spe- manpower will sometimes run low. To overcome this cialize in lightning raids on small and medium-sized plan- shocking problem, the Church of the Industrial Saints has ets. The roving pirates’ armada has never yet been inter- constructed a system to carefully channel energy and skills cepted, and they are notorious for leaving no survivors. to its greatest advantage and customer satisfaction. There is no shortage of trained veterans and young THE HARPOONERS hotshots eager to fight. They are encouraged to sign up These pirates are headed by Captain Marouf-the-Crazy, with their nearest Mercenary Office recruitment center to a “cracked” Mentrek in all senses of the term. He mur- prevent them from being tempted to join a dissident group, dered Captain Karmaro to take his place when he was his which would right-hand man. Marouf-the-Crazy is totally paranoid and waste their talents constantly extends his memory capacity, which makes him and undermine Banzai! even more nuts. As their name suggests, their specialty is the Empire. They In its infinite wisdom, the harpooning space vessels — an art in which they excel! simply fill in Form Church of the Industrial 28B-6 and a life of THE BROTHERS OF THE FRINGE Saints offers its customers adventure is savings with the kamikaze- The captain of these pirates is called Copper Beard, a theirs. Obviously, mercenaries. These little mar- redheaded woman with an enormous beard whose arms it’s a life that will vels have many advantages. were torn off in a Troglosocialiks raid on her home planet. probably be short, Before the suicide operation, She survived in the midst of the worst scum in the uni- but the main thing the volunteer’s brain is put in verse, driven by her avid hatred and thirst for revenge. is to live it to the a Techno-trance with the in- Later, she acquired two illegal exo-bionic arms, which gave fullest. sertion of a probe into the her exceptional strength. With her new attributes, she THE WAR cortex. On impact and clini- assembled a rabble of rogues and called them the Broth- cal death, the mercenary’s STAR ers of the Fringe. They operate mainly on the borders of personality is salvaged from the Empire, systematically attacking Colonial vessels. No Applicants for space and immediately one knows where their hideout is, but it is thought that a career as a mer- cloned into a new body. The the Brothers of the Fringe are helped by populations re- cenary are as- only drawback is that the cently conquered by the Empire. sembled in vast new body is untrained, al- THE BUCCANEERS OF THE OUTBACK orbital centers — though training takes barely one per system — one standard month in the Commanded by Captain Devil Shadow, a black-skinned and then taken to Techno-induction training human, the Buccaneers are essentially black galactic-bar- the War Star, the programs. barians. They operate in the outback of space and some- mysterious times carry out missions to save Aquaend prisoners. Techno-Techno When the riches are on a world that planet in a secret astronomi- The Guild’s belongs to a powerful family in favor cal location. They make the trip Neo-Tradesman with the Golden Palace or any other entity whose power cannot be ignored, in a deep artificial sleep. The real Recent diploma-holding Merchants and Traders have to come trials start as soon as they arrive. guild graduates, the neo- to a compromise. For example, the They are examined, appraised, tradesmen search by every Guild’s delegation used to negotiated scrutinized, evaluated, and finally means possible to make up with the Castaka clan for marble on tested. The aptitude test decides the cost of their studies and Marmola. However, they don’t think Chapter 3 • 48 whether they make the grade. It is a put into practice the fruit of twice about using other methods with virtual battle on a simulation ma- their theoretical courses. weak and powerless groups. chine. The immersion effect is total. Their sole priority is to buy, All of the soldiers’ faculties are ex- sell, extort, lie, deceive, make RAPTORS AND VULTURES amined: reflexes, cool-headedness, de- profitable, amass, accumu- Backed up by the Techno-assassin cision-making, reactions, survival in- late, and rake in the greatest legions, their formidable metamorphs, stinct, determination and ferocity. The amount of kublars possible and even the Endoguard units if need aim is to survive as long as possible in in the shortest amount of be, the Imperial Merchants’ trading this virtual world, and this is the crite- time. The unspoken dream tactics are frequently tantamount to a rion that determines the number of of these pure products of the hard and fast dictatorial ultimatum. Dhans attributed to each applicant. system is invariably to be rec- On Fillodendra, for example, where Dhans represent a mercenary’s market ognized by the highest com- huge seams of bikramen were found, value. It is an open scale, but no one mercial spheres of the Guild the population was given a simple has ever received above 100, although — a promise of financial choice of leaving or dying. Led by Don it goes without saying that the Meta- notice and social status, as Nicanor Rosamel de Rokha, they chose baron is off the scale. Mercenaries typi- well as a future rich in the second option and would surely cally introduce themselves with some- kublars. thing like: “Marzo, from the planet have been wiped out had it not been Solius, dead on the sixty-third Dhan.” for Metabaron Steelhead. The Techno-Techno order has en- The Ekonomat Traders operate just deavored to rationalize the system by improving the seas aggressively, albeit more discreetly, with their Corsairs. lection mechanism. Hopeless candidates who die before Not that they are held back by conscience or scruples. the fifth Dhan in virtual reality also die in real life. Their They simply cannot risk drawing the greedy attention of survival instinct is far too low for them to become merce- the Imperial Merchants, who would not have any qualms naries, and there’s no point posting them elsewhere where about using their dominant position to snatch the riches life is far too dangerous anyway. from the Ekonomat’s hands. Birds of prey are not in the habit of giving anyone a break. THE IMPERIAL MERCHANTS AND SHIPS EKONOMAT TRADERS Getting around in the universe requires the right kind Local trading is left up to individual initiative. The sale of vehicle — and the Imperial Merchants Guild and the of food and other trivial necessities is too petty to interest Eknomat Traders have them. You can find more informa- the major groups. However, stellar trade in colossal sums tion about the Imperial Merchants Guide cargo with astronomical royalties is exclusively controlled by dreadnaught on pages 251–252 of the Metabarons the Imperial Merchants and Ekonomat Traders. Roleplaying Game rule book. Details on Eknomat vessels are on pages 253–255 of the rule book. MISSION: PROFIT The rarer a good, the higher its value. This goes for all commodities from minerals and raw materials to manu- THE NEO-TAROLOGISTS factured products produced by a population’s own spe- The Neo-Tarologist caste stands apart in the Empire cial know-how. The representatives of the Guild of Impe- and even the universe for their ability to see into the fu- rial Merchants and Ekonomat Traders — alone autho- ture, but also and above all, because there are only four rized by the authorities to trade — travel the length and of them. breadth of space looking for resources and merchandise The most well known is the Imperial Neo-Tarologist that will supply the production chains and penetrate all Goyo-Vah, a twofold initiate who knows the mysteries of societal levels. Dangerous missions, especially the explo- paleo-tarot and neo-tarot. His brain contains 78 metal ration of chaotic zones, are often subcontracted to spe- shoots that constantly vibrate in two distinct planes of cialized teams, and the Ekonomat Traders have a vast fleet reality. These extraordinary qualities make him so invalu- of probe-ships working for them. The Guild leaves the able that the Emperoress cannot make any major deci- job up to the huge Techno-Techno factory-laboratories sion without consulting him first. This incontestable mas- and their galactic sleuths, who track down even the small- ter of the mysteries lives the life of a recluse at the Court est seam to be carved up. on Golden Planet, spending most of his time studying and meditating. He is a reference for all the other Neo- Tarologists, who consider themselves to be his students, catacombs and extends its influence over nu- 49 • The Factions even if they do not admit as much. merous worlds. In addition to taking in, caring The second most well-known Neo-Tarologist in the uni- for and helping dissidents from all over, the Amok verse is Raymonde le Rubis, who calls herself a “galactic rebels constantly fight the established order. In the neo-prophetess.” Also a palmist when the fancy takes her, endocities, the Prez is their enemy and the robocops, Raymonde practices neo-palmistry in a traveling stellar cir- their adversaries. Although they are openly at war with cus that performs from galaxy to galaxy. She has a flatter- the Empire and its henchmen, their tactic is mainly to ing reputation, and some of her predictions made live on help out in small ways, which, although daring, are huge hypertele shows are famous throughout the entire limited in their effectiveness. The Amok can also be universe. Raymonde’s other talents include fortune telling found on all planets with good reason to rebel. using her famous ruby — a huge 5,682-carat stone, which The Amok is highly structured, organized, and oper- never leaves her side. A handful of well-informed people — ates under the unchallenged authority of the “God- three to be precise — know that the ruby is actually the mother.” Few know her real identity, but everyone in the mineral stomach of an insectoid creature who lives with its ghetto respects her sovereignty. The Godmother is the head in a membrane that is an inexhaustible source of igne- queen of the Amok, the power of the depths — this se- ous honey. However, what no one knows it that Raymonde cret, buried place from where she directs dissidence. is really just an android puppet controlled by the insect, Next come the Madonnas, the mistresses of the under- which is the one that really has the divining powers. world. They are the voice and conscience of the God- Next comes Occiputal-Cogito, a rather special kind of mother everywhere the Amok is found. They make sure Neo-Tarologist. He was awakened in the same way as that the rebellion is properly organized and keep the sa- Goyo-Vah, with the insertion of 78 metal shoots into his cred flame burning. brain. But Occiputal-Cogito is different. His body is his Last but not least, come the military wing, the Chil- brain, a huge, three-meter wide cephalic sphere immersed dren of the Amok, a huge motley crew without any real in a liquid regenerator. The 78 shoots are planted like structure, but with three distinct adult sub-groups — as needles in a ball of wool made of soft pinkish flesh, mak- listed below — plus one group for the children, the Kids. ing them look like a crown of thorns. Each shoot is linked • The Guards: Soldiers, assassins, sentries by a bluish piezoelectric arc to a relay console. This is • The Resources: Volunteers helping in various areas: connected by a glass cable a few meters supplies, technical, mechanical long to another brain ten times larger. • The Watch: Moles, secret agents Occiputal-Cogito is the divining brain Hypertele Rebel • The Kids of Central Planet’s Supreme Central From their secret hideout THE CHILDREN OF THE AMOK Brain. on the artificial satellite Si- The last member of this tiny caste is erra Maestra, a tiny archeo- The Guards carry out the Amok’s Renovahl, a mutant Neo-Tarologist castroite group sends out un- ground operations, which does not who lives on the planet Novahl-Re, a authorized broadcasts across mean that they are the only ones pre- small sphere lost in the beyond whose the galaxies, exhorting the pared to fight. All the members of the primitive population worships him as oppressed masses to take up Amok are armed rebels, but the a virtual god. As you would fully ex- arms and overturn dictators Guards are specialized and seasoned pect, Renovahl is an ally of the aliens of all kinds. Without any troops. They are formidable warriors, and mutants who abound in the area. forewarning, a holographic albeit slightly underarmed. Renovahl was crossbred from human image of the archeo-castroite The Resources are the largest Amok chromosomes and a plant gene, giving icon “paleo-Che” unexpect- group, accounting for 80% of the him a long neck that grows not unlike edly appears in the most im- rebellion’s numbers. These millions of a palm tree. The head at the end of his probable places, and enters willing volunteers support the God- neck — easily recognizable from its halo into an inflammatory dis- mother and her Children every day, of 78 brilliant rings — is never the lat- course suitable for waking sometimes with just the simplest gesture. est. It regularly withers and dries up to the dulled conscious of The Watch group’s moles and secret be replaced by another bud. people plunged into the agents are active but discreet combat- Renovahl is currently on his 121st Necro-Dream. The authori- ants who infiltrate the order’s machin- head. A prophecy tells of a major up- ties make half-hearted at- ery and risk their lives for the cause. heaval when he reaches his 333rd head. tempts to track down these Last but not least, the Kids are activists, whose actions, in- made up of the hundreds of thousands of rebel children who inhabit THE AMOK REBELS stead of stirring up hard-line terrorism, most often result the murky levels of the Endocities The Amok is a hideout for mutineers, in bringing about folkloric and the ghettos of other worlds. deserters, and rebels who live in its vast notions of nostalgia. They roam the streets in gangs, pinch underground structure, which harbors anything that could be useful, and the most down-and-out creatures of the eavesdrop on everyone. Exiled Nobel Fallen Nobel COMMON PROFESSIONS OF THE Galacto-Gladiator HUMAN EMPIRE Guild Merchant Lock Charmer ENDOCITIES Major World Ambassador Mentrek 3DTV Cameraman Mekanic 3D Journalist Mercenary Chapter 3 • 50 Amok Rebel Neo-Troubadour Amorine Guardian Nobel Aristo Paleo-Archaeologist Body Guard (upper levels) Paleo-Priest Body Guard Pilot Defused Mentrek Spy Terrorist Detective Star Chaser Drug Dealer Trafficker Fallen Aristo Guild Merchant ILLEGAL PROFESSIONS Mentrek Accursed Poet Mercenary Amok Rebel O’lock (Thief) Amorine Guardian Pilot Defused Mentrek Pre-detective (apprentice) Geologist-Pillager Prostitute Garbage Collector Proto-Historian Independent Mercenary Public Preacher News-Terrorist/3DTV Pirate Red Ring Prostitute Pirate Retrained Urban Hunter Psionic Initiate Security Agent Shabda-Oud Initiate Trafficker Smuggler Upper-Level Prostitute Trafficker Urban Terrorist PIRATES SEMI-INDEPENDENT PROFESSIONS Amourine Guardian 3D Reporter Defused Mentrek Athleto-actor Lock Charmer Body Guard Mekanic Colonial Doctor Mercenary Colonial Engineer O’lock (thief) Colonial Explorer Paleo-Priest Colonial Officer Pilot Colonial Soldier Private Secret Agent Diplomat Spies E V E R Y D A Y L I F E

Daily life in the amazing, swarming universe of the they are part of the same whole. And in a bizarre way, Metabaron presents itself in many different shapes and the dark vessels and disquieting silhouettes of the forms. Indeed, life in an Endocity isn’t remotely like the Techno-Techno dignitaries, hidden behind their opaque life one leads in the still-savage zones of a wild pioneer glasses, produce the same effect. Their omnipresence planet on the outer fringes. In a macrocosmic world that reminds everyone everywhere that the universe is Ja- fully embraces all possible and conceivable realties from nus-Jana’s Empire. one end of the universe to another, and even to the fur- Of course, the etiquette and protocol worries of some, ther beyond, lifestyles can be nothing but extremely di- political considerations of others, immediate material converse. Even within a given category of worlds, such as the cerns for the greater part, and the shortsighted thinking of Maganat planets isolated in space, the blossoming of the large majority make one think that daily life here doesn’t purely local customs and attachment to habitual protocol necessarily have anything remotely to do with daily life there. and conventions have given birth to a range of behaviors Still, the powerful range of common references which ce- and customs unprecedented in their richness. Elsewhere, ment together this mosaic of Dantesque proportions that is the unique prevailing conditions of a particular environ- the Human Universe, is never called into question. And this ment, combined with its imposed constraints, have fash- universe maintains a coherent, if not harmonious, whole in ioned quite specific lifestyle habits. Even within the thou- which every citizen of the Empire can find something with sands of Endocities scattered about the cosmos, where it which he is familiar, even if he is lost in the lower levels of might seem that a certain uniformity reigns, one is wit- an Endocity or on a representative mission from a planet ness to the hatching of atypical customs and practices that belonging to the Maganat or adrift in some progressive trad- have never been seen before. ing post on a pioneer planet. As varied and rich as daily life may be, a certain num- Obviously there are nuances according to where one is ber of general characteristics may be found everywhere — the innermost depths of Terra 1314, at Court on the throughout the Human Universe. The fact that the Hu- Golden Planet, or mixing with the locals on a Colonial man Universe is ruled by a single and unique power, that planet — or with whom one is rubbing shoulders — a of the Emperoress Janus-Jana, helps to impart a certain condescending mono-duke from the Arch-Nobility, a wild appearance of homogeneity. The tutelary shadow of the plotter from the clan of some Kamar, or a passive chap Trans-Bourbon royal line literally formats the power zombified by the hypertele. All the same, there are a cer- games played out on all of the worlds in the universe. tain number of constants that can be found in almost all Nevertheless, groups and factions of a certain weight of the before-mentioned scenarios. also strive to leave their mark on as many worlds as possible. The representatives of the Techno-Techno Order and DIET AND NUTRITION the merchants of the Ekonomat are present across every In every corner of the Human Universe, in space, on galaxy and, along with them, the people they control. As orbiting stations and absolutely every planet, its inhabit- a result, even the residents of the most receded Colonial ants must eat. But they don’t all eat the same thing. Of all planets along with the inhabitants of the Endocities and the domains susceptible to showing a certain uniformity, the Maganats share the same language, consume the same this one is, without a doubt, the most varied and diverse. products, and draw from the same reference source — One doesn’t eat the same thing in the middle of an agrar- the hypertele. ian Maganat planet where paleo-agriculture is still prac- The Human Universe’s unifying fac- ticed that one would in an Endocity tors don’t stop there. Indeed, all its in- or on the planets of an industrial habitants dispersed over billions of light The Food Chain Maganat. years have at one time or another had In the Endocities, the up- Nevertheless, two great distinct ten- the occasion to feel like they belong to per-level ring is the first to dencies stand out. In fact they repre- the same community. For example, if a be restocked with fresh food sent the two extremes of the wide range horde of galacto-barbarians, a troop of and produce. The leftovers of nutritional possibilities: paleo-bio- overly excited pirates, or a swarm of from the upper levels are dis- logical nutrition on one side and syn- unfriendly alien ships comes sweeping persed directly to the next thetic on the other. On preserved through a system, immediately its popu- level below and so on to the worlds, where according to certain lation remembers that they are also sub- next until they reach the city- points of view an archeo-backwards jects of an empire endowed with an ef- shafts. In the lowest regions type of culture is still practiced, one fectively dissuasive defense system with of the shafts, even food pre- can eat a large range of culinary prepa- a very powerful striking force. In this servatives arrive rotten, well rations made of fruit and vegetables, way, the Endoguard contributes to the past their use-by date. each one more exotic than the next. collective memory as much as any am- The richness of the local fauna enables bassador, making everyone feel that the enhancement of everyday menus, make it a true wonder, seeing that it with an increased number of A La Carte gets the better of all materials that are not equipped with calo-dispersive de- choices. However, the degree of The nobles love eating vices. However, the laser presents the culinary refinement varies accord- endangered species. This cui- inconvenience of being easily detected, ing to the milieu. A table of top dig- sine is extremely trendy. As giving rise to instant sanctions that are nitaries may be offered the most de- a result, hunters have only particularly dissuasive (that is, execu- lightful and delicious-tasting dishes, one thing in mind: extermi- tion without warning). while the common dish of the infe- nating animals as quickly as For those who are truly ambitious, Chapter 4 • 52 rior casts is much more akin to a vile possible, imperiling the sur- there is the last word in arms: OKO gruel than anything else. vival of the species and get- missiles, Remora bombs, heavy sonics, In the Endocities, and on planets ting higher prices. devoured by industry — the multi- hand sonics for combat in atmosphere progressive worlds as some say — the (supremely destructive, capable of an- nutritional perspectives are less inter- nihilating every reinforcement as soon esting. The supply of fresh products is inversely propor- as the wave packets start resonating with any and all mate- tional to demographic size. And the populations are co- rials in their reach), plasma arms (effective in extra-atmo- lossal. There are some hydroponic-produce farmers, par- spheric space, including hand guns, rifles, and heavy weap- ticularly in the industrial ring of the Endocities, but the onry), and wonder of wonders — the multi-cogan which is color and the taste of these crops are at best suspicious. compact, easy to use, and combines all of the principles of In fact, the synthetic proteins produced by the pan-Techno destruction (laser, plasma energy, multi-caliber projectiles, factories make up the nutritional base. As they have no and grenades). With its hallucinating rate of fire, the cogan taste, they can be given absolutely any flavor, and their imparts to each man equipped with it, a striking force equal consistency can be modified to satisfy whatever one’s heart to that of a standard commando (50 men). Obviously, these desires. Of course with kublars, one can always import little things are absolutely unavailable for official trade. any exotic sweet at great expense. Those who sell multi-cogans are generally at odds with the How does a hyperrich far-future universe do a worse law and, not surprisingly, keep their prices high. job feeding its lower orders than the worst twenty-first Despite their danger, arms and weapons in the Human century first-world slum on Terra Prima? Sheer adminis- Universe are omnipresent. There are several reasons for trative indifference. No one at the top cares. No one at this phenomenon. Firstly, on the Colonial and Maganat the bottom has any power to alter or avoid the mono- planets, the existence of local autonomous military forces lithic system. justifies the presence of every type or kind of arm, and in large quantities. Secondly, a great number of Maganats ARMAMENT are arms manufacturers for the Endoguard. Under the technical aegis of the Techno-Technos, they manufacture Where armament is concerned, one can procure just engines of war, of which an appreciable part disappears about anything that the creative imagination of the directly into parallel circuits. Thirdly, in the Endocities, Techno-Techno researchers and the great industrial authorities close their eyes as to the armament of anti- Maganat engi-neers are capable of inventing. And the list authority groups, such as the anarcho-psychotics, as it is long. Of course all of this is for a price. For those who assures “bloody” animation without actually jeopardiz- have a sufficient budget at their disposal, there is no stop- ing the political balance of power. Fi- ping them from equipping themselves nally, everywhere in space, enormous like a space cruiser. quantities of diverse engines (drilling For the most common of hoodlums, Profitability lasers, polymagnetic ballistics, and so there are standard knives, bats, and Calculations on) and numerous explosive com- clubs, more or less improved with op- In general, offensive weap- pounds can be diverted from their tions such as the Vibrashock function. ons are favored to the detri- original usage to hyperdestructive ends. These trifles are available absolutely ment of defensive arms. A Nonetheless, defensive weapons can anywhere in the universe. On this sub- foot soldier costs less kublars be had. They just cost more, require ject it should be said that a great num- than a protonic shield. Only better connections to get, are less avail- ber of nobles — authentic and impos- the Empire and the Techno- able, and need better explanations tors alike — often parade around with Techno order have effective when caught with them. Remember one or several swords on their belts. defense systems at their dis- that virtually all good weapons are il- For more serious or enterprising clients, posal. In this respect and in legal. However, the written law is one there are other articles also available the greatest of secrecy, the thing. Enforcement is another. Who a on the market. There is an entire range Church of the Industrial person’s connections are counts far of firearms and defense pistols — Vi- Saints manufactures robo- more than the law. per models among others — just the killers and weapons of an Lastly, no section on armaments classic run-of-the-mill type stuff. More unsurpassed sophistication. would be complete without mention- refined, but more expensive, the laser ing several of the extremely lethal vec- is always well appreciated by those in tors (Biokill or Biocidex, hyperdrying the know. Its versatility and efficiency bundles, and others). Capable of completely eradicating life in entire sectors of the cosmos, these weapons have 53 • Everyday Life been secretly obtained by larger factions such as the TABOOS AND RESTRICTIONS Endoguard, the Church of the Industrial Saints, and even In a period where human life has lost all of its the Ekonomat. intrinsic value, murder is no longer really forbidden. Likewise, the disappearance of all collective morals ECADENCE AND ORRUPTION D C lifted a great number of sanctions on prohibited acts If there are two words that have taken on their full that were once considered as taboo on Terra Prima. meaning during these last few hundreds of thousands of Debauchery, luxury, and even incest have been re-es- years, they would be the words “decadence” and “cor- tablished — moreover, encouraged. The strongest law ruption.” Humanity’s expansion and development have decrees these rights, and there is no longer an ethic to certainly not progressed in the sense of expanding upon protect anyone or anything from excesses of all kinds. better qualities that are generally thought of as the finer However, what remains absolutely outlawed are at- side of human nature. Rather, there has been a reinforce- tempts against the Imperial power and those who incar- ment of the basest human qualities associated with man. nate it. Maligning Janus-Jana’s majestic person is tanta- The end result being that never have appetites for power mount to a death wish. If a type of rebellion is tolerated, been so sharpened, and never have those who have held a for the needs of political show, it shouldn’t in any way be bit of power exercised it with such haughtiness towards exaggerated to the point of sacrilege. The Endoguard is the weak or with such determination to outright abuse vigilant, and even the smallest initiative is repressed. In this power. the same way, in their own sphere of influence the most Decadence is everywhere. It is highly visible despite the powerful factions are constantly on the lookout for the pomp and ceremony that comprises the highest parts of signs of respect they deem themselves due. Therefore, an the Empire, particularly at Court and in the Emperoress’s omitted mark of respect to an inferior grade Techno- entourage where one vies with ingenuity in order to wal- Techno delegate, or even to a petty noble from a lesser low in debauchery. Decadence stomps out even the small- Nobility, can result in extreme consequences. est moralistic feeling as if it were a kitchen cockroach spreading itself out monstrously, consuming all worlds, LEISURE AND ENTERTAINMENT and taking on a most particular dimension in the Where life is harsh, bitter, and austere, opportunities to Endocities. Paradoxically, the chaste Techno-Technos, with amuse oneself are rare. In certain corners of the universe, a their rigor and discipline, end up setting a good example glass of whiskey is often the only available form of distrac- in comparison. But once one is aware of their secret tion. But these are extreme conditions. For as soon as hu- goals…. man presence reaches a certain concen- From time to time, grace and beauty tration, it is systematically accompanied show up in an individual. But the by at least the minimum necessary and Necro-Dream is watching, and rapidly The Urban Hunt vital for amusement: the hypertele. Ah, man’s lowest instincts, brilliantly flat- Urban hunting is a popu- the hypertele and its cohorts of perky tered, come out in full force, showing lar leisure time activity in presenters! It’s good times for everyone: their strength. The systematic dissolu- which numbers of Endocity entire bottom spreading, flabby belly- tion of the appreciation of effort, duty, inhabitants enjoy partaking. growing days, with lobotomy eyes red- and heightened aspirations translates The principle is simple: hu- der than hyperrubies staring straight into the disappearance of the sense of man citizens, having ob- ahead, mouths open wide, a bit of spit beauty and aesthetics among most be- tained the appropriate per- hanging from the lip, and of course a ings, who thus take pleasure in a state mit, are authorized to elimi- completely empty mind. of blind satisfaction. Today art is dead, nate, by every or any means If it assures peace in the Endocities and the only thing that counts is in- possible, the underage mu- and all of the Empire’s urban concen- stantaneous satisfaction derived tants present outside of the trations, it is considered entertainment through pursuit of the lowliest of plea- mutant quarter, or those who and it isn’t only provided by the sures. do not respect the curfew. hypertele. Death combats, ball-trap There is general corruption among The hunters found violating suicides, bets on the number of catas- all who are not already under the strict the permit terms benefit trophe victims, and mutant hunts all control of an anti-corruption machine. from an extreme leniency. allow some fun and relaxation. For bio-flesh is weak: it relents and be- The success of the urban For the privileged in the upper lev- comes corrupt. And so if one is as vain hunt is such that numerous els and the rich nobles in their fief, there as he is suicidal, by proposing kublars planets have taken up the exist even more sophisticated types of to an Endoguard in return for a favor, same idea, broadening it to leisure activities. Orgies are a grand there is no stopping him from trying include other individual cat- classic as well as other debauchery ses- the same with a StellCom agent, a quar- egories such as deviants, pa- sions where one wolfs down incredible ter-master serving a Maganat, or any riahs, and the like. quantities of food, drink, and varied other human — and weak — individual substances, pushing the territories of from the universe. depravity and luxury to their extreme limits. But there is also the hunt at court, with the tracking of serf and churls, and then most of all, there is war. The Empire tolerates small local conflict, as it helps contribute to openings in industry and even better, because it is extremely entertaining. Finally at Court, one amuses oneself with refinement and cruelty. Some extensive galactic debacles are encouraged — much like the paleo-wars of religion —

Chapter 4 • 54 to help remind the universe where the real power lies. An infinite multitude of events are held where one can malign others, get drunk, show off, plot against, and even discretely poison another.

DRUGS, ALCOHOL, AND HALLUCINOGENS dump tons of their miracle molecules on entire popula- Or “Whiskey, SPV, and homeosluts”— the triptych of tions who then voluntarily enter, glassy-eyed and grim- happiness in these lowliest of worlds. Under Janus-Jana’s mouthed, into the Necro-Dream. rule, conduct that would seem shocking to Terra Prima’s paleo-habitants has since become established behavior, and HOMEOSLUTS even encouraged. Fruit of the Techno-Technos’ creative genius, the The regular and excessive consumption of alcohol is part homeosluts represent the height of hedonistic instruments. of the social norm, just as is the taking of psychotropic drugs. A veritable “a la carte” menu of choices, the homeoslut is There exist even “official” drugs, SPV and Cocaloco Dark, interchangeable, according to the client’s choice and mood whose production and distribution are endorsed by the au- of the moment. There exists an infinite number of possible thorities, at least in the Endocities. These synthetic substances combinations. This literal stock exchange of fantasies is able can be smoked, injected, or ingested through any natural to respond to all desires, even the most ludicrous. The sole orifice. Their effects are strong, but without any surprises. and only standard organ is the brain. All of the others are Oblivion can be obtained with a certain amount of relax- the choice of the consumer. Homeosluts are a sophisticated ation. However, they don’t allow one to reach new mystical application, combining the most advanced teflo-genetic tech- heights or dimensions. nology. The homeosluts offered are not exclusively female. But the range of drugs does not stop there. One can Male models, mutants, animaloids, and aliens are equally find any number of other products that procure varied available. The homeoslut market coexists with a classic hu- effects: calming, curative, sedative, stimulating, invigorat- man prostitution market. ing, hallucinogenic, or straight out mystical — psychotropic. Among the most popular substances, one must MEDIA mention Guanaguacha, the favorite liquid drug of the pi- With a multigalactic communications network, the me- rates, or even Tranka, which has quite intriguing regen- dia is obviously omnipresent in the Human Universe. One erative properties. really has to live at the outer edge of a desert on some In any case, drugs aren’t governed by law, and no one abandoned planet in a blasted solar system to be isolated is prosecuted for having consumed drugs. But what may from the media’s influence. However, the media’s far-reach- seem like a conquest of personal liberties, is in fact part of ing breadth is not synonymous with diversity. Surely there the general outline of a grander plot. The population, exists an infinite number of channels and stations, but dulled and dumb-struck, is then that much more easily they all echo the Empire’s official message, and even the manipulated. entertainment programs proclaim the great glory of Ja- Thus with the Empire’s consent, the Techno-Technos nus-Jana. Moreover, beyond the media’s submissiveness to the Empire’s power, it must not be

55 • Everyday Life forgotten that the media is an instru- When History the harsh reality of sports ment of power for the Techno-Technos, Falls Short… competition and the price of caretakers of this powerful technology, Humanity’s artistic heri- success for the sports stations on and the means of propagation for their tage, consisting of paleo- the hypertele. The death rate of word. It is their vector of influence. works created over centuries sportsmen and other athleo-actors The People for Nobody show, which of time, still exists but only is even greater due to the fact that is broadcast nonstop on channel 3231, as preserved through a me- the taking of any and all imaginable is the perfect example of the way in dium that renders the read- drugs is favorably looked upon. The which they slowly diffuse their mortal ing and studying of this heri- show must go on…. poison — the Necro-Dream — into the tage tedious as well as futile. minds of mil-lions of billions of the FASHION TRENDS The rare students who are universe’s inhabitants. At an epoque interested in these studies In the clothing department, the where one might believe that technol- risk being drowned in a choice available is as immense as the ogy has finally freed humans from the documentary hodgepodge universe itself. Anything that the most bondage of their constraints, it seems that is excruciatingly boring, intoxicated of paleo-designers on Terra that instead, it is used to weave other and more than often deterio- Prima could have dreamed up one day ones, more lethal than anyone has ever rated, incomplete or falsified. under the influence of the hallucino- known. This fact hardly encourages genic and stimulating effect of a Mexi- However, all hope is not strictly lost, the new generations to turn can shroom is nothing compared to because even though it is rare, some fa- towards their own cultural what one finds in the Empire. Never- natics endeavor to alert, inform, and heritage. theless, even in this richly colored swirl- warn. These devotees, having a line of ing whirlwind, one can identify three conduct known as “Veritas” and whose clear and distinct tendencies. order’s motto is “the world has the right First of all, giving honor to whom to know,” work to track down the truth everywhere and honor is due, there is the style of the high Nobility, which alert the universe in the hope of awaking it. To this end, prevails at Court on the Golden Planet and among the they have started up parallel communication networks and most swanky of the Maganats. Inventive, even whimsi- informative informal broadcasts. But their task not easy, cal, it blends with relative success the finery of Terra and the road before them is mined with pitfalls and traps. Prima’s Renaissance and the most innovative fibers, ele- ARTS, CULTURE, AND SPORTS ments, and materials. All of the most harebrained, eccentric extremes have been attempted, but showing an error Art is dead. However, artistic pretension is more alive of taste is considered to be a supreme risk, because the than ever, and there exists a flourishing market where col- most deceitful tongues will go out of their way to decry ored heaps of different shapes, pompously baptized as that which just yesterday everyone agreed was “all the “works of art,” are exchanged for millions of kublars. In rage.” the Endocity’s upper levels, the predominant trend is flash Next, most common as well as being the ruling style on with works that make the worst of Terra Prima’s “kitch” pioneer, warrior, and industrial planets; space explora- creations look like absolute marvels of paleo-modern art. tion stations; merchant ships; and combat vessels, as well If art is dead, then one can say that culture is at death’s as anywhere men devote themselves to labor and surren- door. Intellectual works are only found interesting if they der themselves to battle, is combat and work attire. Al- have practical applications. This is why the Mentreks are though practical, it screams and makes a commotion in the only ones working in this domain, their intellectual the Endocities (with the exception of the industrial lev- talent tending towards the “mechanical.” els), on the Maganat planets, and it must be mentioned, This lack of “appreciation” for paleo-works has noth- on the Golden Planet. ing to do with the high prices jaded collectors will pay to Finally, more recognizable than any other style is the possess them. The “collector” may not have an esthetic strict, almost psycho-rigid Techno-Techno uniform, which clue as to what she is collecting. Collecting is a potlatch achieves a certain look, especially with their smoked ceremony to prove wealth and status. Even illegally ob- glasses. tained works can add status by associating the “collector” with yet another pathway to the forbidden. At a high COMMERCE enough social level, law does not apply and even scandal On an intergalactic scale, trade is dominated by both can have its public relations value. the Imperial Merhcants Guild — a product of the Church On the other hand, sports — which were the fascina- of the Industrial Saints — and the merchants of the tion of Terra Prima’s inhabitants — have survived and Ekonomat. It is they and they alone who deal with the even developed considerably. The sense of competition import and export of raw materials as well as every rare has become more intense, heightened to a point where product present on the planets of the universe. the thousands of sports events organized each day inevi- However, locally, even if it is not explicitly encouraged tably result in almost as many violent deaths. But that’s by the authorities, private initiatives are not curbed. Private stantly tracked. For those who want to be forgotten, us- enterprise must respect certain limits, though, and ing a bank account adds up to about the same as handing never reach the point of major expansion if it doesn’t oneself over to the authorities. In this scen-ario, one must want to incur the striking severity and rigor of an find other elements of negotiation: minerals, gems, valu- omnipresent and finicky administration. Simply this able information, etc. means that one can nosh on a strange dish in a greasy spoon run by a friendly cook from Alderbaran V, have a BLACK MARKET AND CONTRABAND drink in a seedy bar whose owner is being actively hunted Everything can be bought, and everything is for sale. down by militia from his native planet, or procure vari- Chapter 4 • 56 All things are manufactured, or can be made, and na- ous items in a boutique or trading post managed by some ture has generously created incredible quantities of liv- adventuring voyager. ing organisms — animal, vegetable, and mineral — In the Endocities, the number of workshops is much from diverse resources. It is therefore almost bad will more important than on other planets, but they are much to have poorly stocked market stalls. Yes, but alas, more strictly controlled. On the Mag-anat and Colonial commerce and trade represent an instrument of power, planets, a relatively important type of craft industry has a potent lever used to amass fortunes and control the blossomed. Those involved in the craft industry are not masses. This is why official commerce is either in the assured a galactic fortune, but they can attain a certain hands of the Imperial Merchants Guild, originating wealth. Great numbers of specialized sectors have been from the Church of the Industrial Saints, or with the created, and depending upon local particularities, one can Ekonomat’s tradesmen. acquire the fruit of the efforts of these extremely skilled Where there is money to be made, people have always artisans and craftsmen, as well as the products and by- known how to best use their imaginations. Consequently, products of strange animals bred for their meat and fur. parallel markets are booming. These illegal markets are not without risk for the seller and the buyer, because prod- ONETARY YSTEM M S uct quality is not guaranteed, and there is no after-sales The kublar is the official money of the Empire and is customer service. used as legal tender everywhere. Thus, even on the outer Used as a propagation vector for the Necro-Dream in the most isolated planets, at the edges of the barbarian con- Endocities, the illegal commerce of drugs, weapons, and fines, a purse full of kublars guarantees safe conduct and other instruments of pleasure is conducted with the quasi- the buying power needed to acquire sustenance and sub- benediction of the authorities. However, in space, the same sistence. A huge network of banks and credit establish- leniency does not exist. Furthermore, pirates and smugglers ments, exclusive property of the Ekonomat, services all are heavily armed, and skirmishes with the StellCom pa- of the Universe. This powerfully secret and possibly oc- trols, local armies, or worse the Endoguard, are extremely cult group has their hands on all the cogs and gears of violent. On the Maganat planets, everything depends upon the Empire’s finances, managing the Empire’s assets, the the local lord’s mood, and although certain traffickers get Maganat and Colonial investments, and supervising all off lightly, others may be flayed to death. movements of capital throughout the Empire down to and including MEDICINE AND the smallest of galaxies. Every citi- Miscellaneous HEALTHCARE zen of the Empire can open a bank Expenses More than 30,000 years after the account and have access to their (in kublars) paleo-prophet and as during every money in any of the branch offices, Food period of life on Terra Prima, health but only the most fortunate Raw lizard snack (25cl): 30 is considered a treasured possession are able to take advantage of this Polyvaren juice (25cl): 25 that must be preserved. Under the convenience. Geidig mermaid caviar (10g): 100 reign of Janus-Jana, never have hu- For those who are more or less Bio-vita-steak (100g): 10 mans had at their disposal so many marginal, the services of the bank Elephantodonte milk (1L): 3 possibilities to overcome physical can end up being a double-edged pain and injury of every type and sword. Certainly, one can avoid the Drugs nature. But it should be said that inconvenience of having to travel Delicious Lupium (single dose): 5 there have never been so many op- with large sums of money — elimin- Silo-amphets (single dose): 3 portunities to hurt oneself. The ating the risk of pirate attacks, en- SPV (single dose): 5 most adventurous are always at the joy the luxury of a secure form of Guanagouachka (1L): 10 mercy of a mutant virus or a new payment — thanks to a system that Na-Nam (single dose): 6 unknown germ. The most hot- re-cognizes the iris of the eye — and D.S.T. (single dose): 4 headed people risk at every moment an easy way to ob-tain cash. But M.J. Carnivore Oil (single dose): 7 the possibility of being burned, per- these banks become also the abso- Homemade whiskey (1L): 2 forated, cut, mutilated, or simply lute enemy of discretion. The tech- Mega-Antibio (10): 2 disemboweled. But even the most nical tools used for banking services tranquil homebodies are not com- are so powerful that one can be in- pletely safe, because the condhomes

57 • Everyday Life can be mistaken as targets, the abuse Wages, Winnings, able to sweep through of SPV mixed with cocaloco can burn and Fines Techno-Techno Tunnels without neurons, and homeosluts may be (in kublars) out support materials, then dif- infected with psycho-emotional para- Wages and Winnings fused on to the four corners of sites that transform them into killing • Average salary the Human Universe through the organisms known as “killersluts.” = 30K/day use of hyperfast relays (HFR). So what to do if one is sick or in- • Denouncement Award Thus, the hypertele programs can jured? Once again, everything depends = 50K + SPV (10 doses) be seen simultaneously by millions upon the means one has at their dis- • Winning bet on death rate of billions of spectators at millions posal. If one only has a handful of = 5 X the bet of light years of distance. Of course, kublars, better go buy a whiskey and • Winning bet on number of certain channels are strictly reserved some SPV. But if money is no object, destroyed organs for official communications the health services robo-surgeons from = 3 X the bet (Endoguard and Stell-Com), and the each Endocity’s white ring or from • Winning bet on number of wealthiest of Maganats have bought Hospital planet can certainly make destroyed limbs frequencies, which are reserved for miracles happen. Nevertheless, with = 2 X the bet their exclusive use. their creed being “better to cut than to On a more local scale, on a single heal,” it might be more prudent to ob- Fines planet or within the same star system, tain some medicine and contact a de- • Accidental murder the use of standard frequencies is free. fused Mentrek normally unauthorized = 300K New installation techniques and broad- to practice medicine, or consult paleo- • Accidental killing of an casting reception devices provide for mystic people with pythotherapeutic official the high quality of communications. knowledge on some faraway planet. = Death or “remodeling” On the best-equipped worlds, techni- (lobotomy) MORTALITY cal excellence is such that one can carry • Theft on a conversation with a holographic The mortality rate isn’t fluctuating, = Death or remodeling representation of the person one is call- nor is it variable or balanced. It is sim- • Failed suicide ing just as if they were physically ply elevated. In fact, that’s about the least = 200K present. However, on some of the most that can be said. In a period where one • Circulating in a rustic Colonial or pioneer planets, one can live several hundred standard years, nonauthorized zone just uses a video communications ter- where science allows the regeneration = Death or remodeling minal, popularly called a “vid-comm.” of organisms, surgery replaces faulty or- The Endocities are teeming with the gans, and medicines allow one to ignore last word in terminals, especially in the attacks on the body by bacterial disease, upper levels. Down in the guts of the well despite all, people die a lot. In fact, when dawn arrives, Endocities, finding a public vid-comm that works takes a the chances of seeing the twilight aren’t that great. And ac- certain initiative. Of course the majority of inhabitants have cording to where or whom one is, the chances may even be a personal mobile communications terminal, called a “pers- null. comm” or a “hand vid-comm,” but confidentiality is not There are several causes to explain this phenomenon. guaranteed with these machines. Furthermore, there is not First of all, there exist methods and secrets for an increased a single electronic jammer that is 100% safe. The best way and even grand longevity, but the price is prohibitive, ren- to assure privacy and discretion is to speak using hints and dering these secrets completely inaccessible to the com- allusions, or use a harmless secret code that no machine can mon mortal. In addition, life is not highly valued. The decrypt. Nobility draws cheerfully from the population as a source At the supreme level of communications, the Techno- of slave labor or simply for their own amusement. There Technos have perfected a gigantic universal network, ab- are also the epidemics, experiments, wars, and commerce. solutely invisible and undetectable, that allows them in- So many mortal activities. Finally, in this somber universe stantaneous communication throughout any number of where depression is omnipresent, suicide has become a galaxies, by acting directly on the universe’s memory. manner of expressing oneself — a new art form. OFFICIAL BODIES OF THE EMPIRE COMMUNICATIONS For that which is visible, the Empire’s authority is repre- Communicating in this cyclopean universe is not simple. sented by the StellCom and the Endoguard. The agents of Nevertheless, thanks to the mastery of the extreme bands the former advocate, regulate, supervise, and enforce. The of the polyhyperfrequencies (a Techno-Techno discovery agents of the latter do not discuss. They beat up, knock out, that immediately resulted in thousands of interested par- and strike in a much more definitive matter. The StellCom ties), all of the inhabited worlds live in a quasi-synchro- offices are found on all of the planets in the Empire, on nized manner. Technically, all of the information emitted orbiting stations, at the entrances of the Techno tunnels, into space is sequenced into sets of multicryptic logic, and in the Endocities. On the other hand, the Endoguard ginning of time, long before Terra Prima became nothing doesn’t maintain official administrative offices. but an obscure thought in the collective memory, human- But they are present. Their cruisers cut across space ity was already placing its hopes in the coming of a being and are never far from any point susceptible to be- who associates the virtues of the male principle with that coming a hot spot. of the female principle. Today, if the certitude of an im- On the Maganat and Colonial planets, one finds a minent golden age has faded away, the mystique of the panoply of diverse and varied administrations. The Hermaphrodite has been conserved with force. Maganats have a classic social structure, with a mili- But it has been transformed over time, and the Her- tary force that handles extensive police missions, an maphrodite is now only one source of power and legiti-

Chapter 4 • 58 administration whose vocation is essentially fiscal, and macy. Didn’t the Shabda-Oud dream of bringing to this whose services (education, health, and others) are lim- world a double being able to dominate the universe? And ited to the bare minimum. On the Colonial planets, the other powers also work in the shadows toward this being’s range is much richer. In fact, it seems like on a daily coming. For its part, the pan-Techno Church, lacking any basis they invent new commissions, committees, high veritable faith, practices an extremely ritualized form of command police stations, delegations, and other admin- worship. Their order is hyperhierarchical, and the life of istrative organs. With their imaginations let loose, they its followers is structured around numerous ceremonies are almost impossible to stop. and obligations. No matter where you go, each population is confronted But the universe is vast, and there exist many of other by a heavy, complex, and castrating administration. The types of beliefs and rites. On the most far-off worlds, to smallest initiative is immediately exposed to difficulty: “Of help bear life’s torments or simply satisfy the inherent course you can leave the Endocity, but have you filled out mystical thirst in the heart of humans, populations will- form 27B dash 6?” ingly develop an abundance of beliefs, religions, and rites. RELIGION THE NECRO-DREAM Aside from the Emperoress who is surrounded by a One of the most demeaning and degrading forces of the shroud of mystery, nobody nor nothing in the Empire Universe, the Necro-Dream plunges those who are subjected really incarnates the hallowed and sacred, with the ex- to its effect into a stupefying state of total exhaustion. The ception of the Saint Kublar, who is revered by all. De- Necro-Dream is propagated through the hypertele, drugs, spite its name, even the Church of the Industrial Saints manipulation, and oppression. Its ultimate goal is to quell has nothing to do with what was at another time con- free-thinking, reducing ideals to nothingness and eliminat- ventional to call religion. Of course, the Techno-Technos ing hope and love in the wake of its intoxicating influence. cultivate a form of ceremony, and a taste for rites and The Necro-Dream is present throughout all of the Em- ritual, which has certain similarities to a cult. But what pire, found in the Endocities as well as the Maganat and has disappeared is the spiritual dimension. Today, only Colonial planets. Even the Golden Planet is not spared, be- appearances remain. cause it finds, in the heart of those who reside there, a place In its own way, the Shabda-Oud order, in its surviving where it can take on its full meaning and dimension. reformed version, is one of the rare examples of a con- As soon as one enters into its sphere of activity, the gregation joined together around a faith, who give hom- moment that one falls into its web, all the most funda- age to a being dressed in the finery of a divinity. In the mental principles upon which rest one’s deepest convic- rest of the universe, and especially as tions start to waiver. The slow chip- we get further and further from the ping away, the undermining of the center of Imperial power, it is not rare, The Neuro- spirit has begun. The strongest of however, to come across all sorts of Emotional Cult resolutions blow away like dust in the individuals who profess a belief in a In the Endocities, every wind. If exposure lingers on, and if one creature or a principle. Their dogmas attempt at spiritual elevation doesn’t fight at each and every moment are more or less supported by fact, and is immediately corrupted. against its insidious and persistent ac- certainly end up convincing a good Religion only offers a facade, tion, free will dwindles and disappears. number of enthusiasts over to their lacking all depth. However, One may end up hazy-eyed and forever cause. To this day, none of these reli- a hidden religion survives in riveted before an empty screen. Life gious beliefs have turned into a cru- secret, particularly in the will vanish, and one can become noth- sade, but the possibility is not com- heart of the lower casts and ing more than a creature of darkness. pletely ruled out, and one should be the outcast populations: the HOUSING ready for anything. Neuro-Emotional Cult. This In a universe where incredible quan- CULTS, RITES, AND BELIEFS totally outdated faith is founded upon a paleo-feel- tities of varied worlds exist together, On a universal scale, the ultimate ing practically forgotten to- housing comes in all shapes and forms creed by which all plots are motivated, day: love. just like the bio-beings and others that and hope is represented, is the myth live there. From teflo-fiber tents and of the Perfect Androgyne. Since the be- other light structures used by prospec- 59 • Everyday Life Price of Housing of darkness — “The (in kublars per day) Tenebrae,” which grants them Endocity Location Pre-owned Standard Deluxe a dominating place in the heart of Gold Ring (condhome) 1700 2500 5000 the Empire. These wonders remain White Ring – – – perfectly inaccessible to everyone Silver Ring (condhome) 170 250 500 else, even if one is in daily contact Blue Ring (condhome) 35 50 100 with their miraculous machines and Green Ring (condhome) 5 10 25 inventions. But if technological opu- Red Ring (condhome) Variable Variable Variable lence expresses itself for a supra- Primal Ring – – – prince of the Archi-Nobility with a Sub Ring (condhome) 2 3 4 profusion of attentive mechanical ser- Black Ring (condhome) 0.5–100 1–100 2–100 vants, then for the average fellow, it translates into a multitude of unhappy Located On Pre-owned Standard Deluxe encounters with robo-cops, robo-fire- Private Asteroid Variable Variable Variable men units, and other automated devices Class A Astrhotel 10000 25000 50000 of repression and coercion. Class B Astrhotel 100 250 500 Class C Astrhotel 10 25 50 TRANSPORTATION Class A Planet 300–1000 700–2500 1500–5000 Admittedly, the Empire is vast. But Class B Planet 20–100 40–250 100–500 the existing means of transportation Class C Planet 2–10 3–25 5–50 allow one to go absolutely anywhere in Class A Paradise–Planet 1800 2500 5000 the universe. There are three major cat- Class B Paradise–Planet 180 250 500 egories of crafts: extra-atmospheric ves- Class C Paradise–Planet 35 50 100 sels for traveling in space, ground crafts, Private Orbital Station Variable Variable Variable and a combined air-ground ship. Each Civilian Orbital Station 300–1000 700–2500 1500–5000 one comprises a large range of engines. As the name indicates, the extra-atmospheric vessels never penetrate into tors on the pioneer planets, to the rich Maganat’s palace a planet’s atmosphere. Their size ranges from gigantic to overflowing with gold and marble from Marmola, pass- colossal, from some hundreds of meters to several kilo- ing by the rustic, dilapidated houses of the supporters of meters. Upon reaching a celestial body’s outskirts, they life in the open air on certain archeo-backward planets, return into orbit. Separate landing ships take over from or the minuscule condhome apartments, jam-packed with this point. Looking at their propulsion capabilities, they flashy appliances set in teflormica furniture, the variety is are equipped with motors capable of reaching vast. And we haven’t even mentioned the rarest habita- tions, such as the jade termite nest that forms the palace of the Kama-Ming family, or the cave dwellers’ constructions, where hordes of inferior humanoid creatures from certain worlds are packed in. That said, one thing is sure, everywhere that the law of the Emperoress rules, the quality of the housing depends upon the quantity of kublars one can devote to that end. In an Endocity, four or five kublars will allow you to spend the night in a slum shelter. Yet if one is willing to spend 10,000 kublars, the doors swing grandly open to the fantastic suites of the upper levels, provided with all of the newest technological conveniences combined with a touch of refinement. TECHNOLOGICAL STANDARDS Close to 30,000 years after the accession of the Trans- Bourbon line, technology has arisen to a level that even Terra Prima’s most prolific authors never dared dream. For the universe in general, technology has already reached its apex and has now entered into a phase of decline. The Techno-Technos have access to an inexhaustible source of technical wonders thanks to their alliance with the force supraluminous light Cost of Services speed for passage (in kublars) through hyperspace. Quality On the ground and in Type Low Standard Deluxe Black Market atmospheric space, one Light vessel hangar (by day) 7 20 50 5–100 uses crafts usually designed Medium vessel hangar (by day) 15 35 150 10–300 for ground travel. Thanks Heavy vessel hanger (by day) 25 50 500 20–1000

Chapter 4 • 60 to epyphite, which erases Homeoslut 15 19 25 – the effects of gravity, these Hospitalization 10 20 150 5–100 ships travel in a state of levi- Hospitalization with surgery 20 35 250 10–200 tation at a few centimeters, Light vessel servicing/repair 30 50 200 25–150 a few meters, or even a few Medium vessel servicing/repair 60 100 500 50–300 hundred meters from the Heavy vessel servicing/repair 150 250 1000 120–800 ground. The physical con- Interstellar Tunnel passage – 200 – – straints of the atmosphere Intergalactic Tunnel passage – 500 – – limit cruising speed, even with epyphite absorbing hundreds of g’s of acceleration. Due to the friction of the air against the fuselage and the pressure luxury, but numerous organizations have the means to exerted upon the structure, movement in atmosphere can- arm the vessels. The average citizen takes the regular public not exceed the speed of Mach 5. lines that cut across the cosmos for his transportation Combined vessels are based on the mixing of two prin- needs. Provisions and service are once again hierarchical ciples. Most private vessels fall into this category. Being a on this type of transportation. One can find at least six much smaller size than the standard extra-atmospheric different classes: metaluxury, luxury, infraluxury, standard, vessels, the interior layout and comfort of these ships are economy, and basic. Of course, the price a traveler pays often compromised to compensate for pure performance, at each level depends on the quality of the ship, the qual- even if the most exclusive models display completely stag- ity of the crew, the length of the voyage, and the destina- gering properties. tion. Voyaging on a luxury cruise ship could cost 8,000 Owning a private vessel is not within the reach of kublars or more, while splitting a room on a freighter everyone’s pocketbook — indeed far from it. In fact, only would go for 80 kublars or less. the most superior levels of the population can afford this E N D O C I T I E S

Throughout the universe, thousands of planets have been nermost parts of its making. Slowly but surely, the planet seized and kneaded as if they were balls of clay, then smashed, is gutted of its substance, held against its will, offended, torn apart in little pieces, and reshaped to be given over to and bled dry, like an immaculate sanctuary desecrated the numberless hordes of humans. The bios are incessantly by a horde of industrial barbarians. multiplying, and more space must constantly be found to In a fraction of time that would be infinitesimal on the cram them in. In its compelling march towards endless ex- universal scale, the Techno-Techno Magnarmada trans- pansion, the human race imposes no limits upon itself. forms a planet or system unsuitable for human life into Thanks to the Techno-Technos’ power and know-how, even an otherwise welcoming world, or at least one that is vi- the smallest arid sphere having an acidic atmosphere can be able for humans. Often, these monolithic, dark vessels will rendered suitable for habitation. completely upset blue planets as well, producing an aseptic When a celestial body, asteroid, or planet with the poten- sphere covered with smooth teflon-concrete and encircled tial for structural terra-transformation is spotted in space, a by a purified atmosphere free from all particles, every type monolithic laboratory-factory ship from the Magnarmarda of bacteria and even the smallest micro-organism, as well Techno-Amazonas fleet sets itself in orbit around the cho- as the most miniscule trace of a mycelium spore. With all sen body. Slowly, the ship casts its enormous shadow over native life eliminated, a brand new Endocity is made ready the planet’s surface, making the planet seem suddenly tiny to welcome billions of occupants. Humanity is nothing more in comparison. The colossal vessel suspended in the void than a remote souvenir. resembles a ferocious predator extremely amused to see the fear rising in the heart of its prey. TOPOGRAPHY AND ORGANIZATION Conceived in the Techno-urbanists prolific electronic HE AGNARMADA T M brain, the Endocities respond to two demands: the Before long, a fleet of sondes, needle rocket penetrators, Empire’s need to lodge a population that is continually in and other draining fluid collectors commence their strange exponential growth, and the Church of the Industrial ballet. If the planet’s vital presence isn’t considered threat- Saint’s desire to format life according to its scientific vi- ening enough to justify an intervention by the Endoguard, sion. Upon the request of the universe’s first human Em- entire colonies of multispecialized robotic entities are called peror Rosemonde I the Rebis, the Endocity project was upon to storm the planet and stifle the smallest sign of pro- started and entrusted to the Guild, which later became test or objection. This silent and efficient arm of the Church the order of the Techno-Technos. During this distant time of the Industrial Saints shamelessly at- period, terra-transformation work tacks, with precision and meticulousness, took dozens of standard years. Terra the planet’s air and water, then its flora 0001, the pilot project, mobilized a and animals, much like a patient spider The technoid army for the precise period nibbling away little by little at its prize, Magnarmada of 37 years. Although long in the mak- neglecting not even the smallest remnants The Techno-Amazonas is ing, the result did not disappointment of life. The land and underground are an immense fleet of labora- their high expectations. More than 15 scoured, analyzed, turned over, and ulti- tory-factories whose flag- billion inhabitants were housed, spread mately cannibalized. ships are named Vesuvio, out vertically over nine rings within the But the operation has only just be- Tsunami, Anaconda, structure. Since this time, construction gun. When the spy systems have col- Hindenburg, Modra, Gorgo, techniques have been vastly improved lected samples, analyzed the data, and Godzilla, Piranhas, Orca, and accelerated, but the framework specified a procedure, the Techno- Tornado, Tyson, Goliath, has remained the same. Nothing re- Techno vessel opens up its metallic arms Leviathan, King Kong, and sembles an Endocity more than an- wide around the planet, gently closing Titanic. Indirect homage to other Endocity, but even though they in and tightening its grasp. With its humanity’s hegemonic ten- are based on the same structure, no delicate and light touch, this first con- dencies, these patronymics Endocity is a strict replica of another. tact produces a long, cold shudder are an example of the Physically, an Endocity is an enor- across the surface of the planet. Next Church of the Industrial mous crater dug into the earth of a the vessel retightens its grip, asserting Saint’s general lack of tact. planet. On the surface, the entirety of its force, and prepares itself to offer the The Church lives by one rule the topmost layer is completely leveled kiss of death. A heavy trephine then only — the survival of the and sterilized. The total bio-presence, shoots out of the ship’s bay, striking the fittest — and it takes on any which just recently may have been planet’s flesh. It bores into the earth, obstacle with the tranquil romping in the sun, is annihilated. The thrusting always to greater and greater serenity of a galactic steam- fauna is decimated, the flora eradicated, depths, shamelessly raping the soil un- roller. the geographical relief razed, and any til it reaches the deepest and most in- intelligent race is either eliminated or as- supreme authority of the Endocity lives, and the directing similated according to their degree of humanity. branches reside. There are also apartments reserved for The Techno-Technos leave nothing but an immense, the Techno-Pope (who normally lodges in the Techno- smooth and bare teflo-concrete expanse in place of City), the Prime Minister (who also has the most luxuri- what nature deemed appropriate for the environment. ous residence in the Golden Ring), as well as a swarm of Seas, oceans, and other water masses exist only in Aristos from the Golden Ring, who come on vacation to memory, much as hills, mountains, and any other el- take part in the magnificent parties that the Prez continu- evated terrain. After the machines have passed over, the ously hosts. Here life goes by in an uninterrupted series sole prominence is the Techno-Techno city, a colossal con- of wild times surpassing even the decadence of the archeo-

Chapter 5 • 62 struction that is placed well away from the Endocity en- human paleo-ritual known as “spring break.” During these trance, and is called “The Mushroom” by the popula- endless indulgences, the Aristos’ curious and whimsical tion. Closer to the entry, at precisely 50 kilometers, one spirit shows itself in its full creative force. The Prez’s ves- finds the astroport installations. This complex port occu- sel also contains immense gardens and parks, where arti- pies approximately 1,000 acres. Apart from the freight zones, ficial deer frolic about and synthetic ibis, pink flamingos, its installations consist of maintenance and repair services and herons fly in the imitation sky. for descent vessels (those capable of ground landings), Moving on to other areas of the Prez’s vessel, one finds a StellCom administrative buildings, and a transit zone sup- hypersophisticated communications room, directly linked plied with boutiques full of overpriced products. As a whole, to Golden Planet services. It is called the “Hypertransmitter most of the facilities have control and surveillance func- Room.” On the same level of the ship, there is another in- tions. An underground anti-g transport system links the teresting particularity: the “Cloning Area” (or Clone Zone) astroport to the Endocity proper. where the Prez comes to transplant his jaunty soul into a new receiving body at regular intervals. Finally, all of the THE PREZ’S PALACE Hunchbacks — the guards closest to the Prez, known for The city-shaft’s access crater is an opening of some seven being both efficient and unsightly — live aboard the vessel kilometers in diameter, but its circumference is irregular as well. Under the vessel’s potbelly is the conical shaft, which in shape. Above the entrance floats an immense vessel in plunges 36 kilometers down into the planet’s guts. The Prez’s stationary flight. This is the vessel of the Prez, where the ship, which conforms perfectly to the shape of the shaft’s

Chapter 5 • 64 opening, is capable of completely blocking the Endocity’s only access. In case of a slightly violent uproar, or utter riot- 65 • Endocities 1 • THE GOLD RING ing, cutting off the entrance is the perfect way of restoring calm to the lower levels. Immediately beneath the glossy surface of the smooth, leveled, and polished planet is the Golden THE HUNCHBACKS Ring, the inaccessible dream of the lower-level popu- The Prez’s private guards, the Hunchback Brigade, is made lations. Consisting of ten levels spread vertically over up of free men, taken at random from the streets of the four kilometers in height, the Golden Ring is a marvel Endocity and from death row, where they chose a “com- of modern architecture and technology. The latest in plete remodeling” as opposed to a basic execution, as al- ultra-postmodern amenities and comforts are assembled lowed by penitentiary administration decree 36FX K6. The together in a profusion of refined living areas. Each remodeling process, which takes 24 standard hours to com- building is set with carpets of artificial greenery, which plete, turns the convicts into creatures entirely devoted to flower regularly with all of nature’s beauty, minus the the Prez by the implantation of a complex Techno-Tehnos work and the inconvenience. Animals have immaculate device, hidden by the hump on their backs. Evidently, dur- coats, are discreetly perfumed, and no longer need to be ing the course of the operation, they lose their memories walked or use a litter box. The Aristos live in apartments and their individual identities, but they gain in return a su- that range from extroverted opulence dripping with gilt, perior force — the technological mechanism is comprised for the most simple, to an archeo-Las Vegas-like decora- of an integrated exoskeleton — and a well tested cynicism. tive madness, where replicas of Greek temples cohabit Devoid of all human sentiment, the Hunchbacks execute with reproductions of the Terra Prima pyramids or the the most lowly work of the Prez with relish and sadism. Taj Mahal. The most technically accomplished of all the Mutants are their preferred victims. Housed in the Prez’s rings, the Golden Ring is also the smallest in size. Of palace, they have unlimited access to all of the Endocity. course, it is reserved for the exclusive use of a few privi- Enslaved to the Prez, they also obey the Aristos of the Gold leged and handpicked individuals, so elite that there is an Ring. It is moreover not uncommon to see them serve as overall impression of great space, despite the relatively bodyguards for a group of Aristos on an outing to experi- small dimensions of the ring. Everything is vast, airy, clear, ence the debauchery of the Red Ring. and harmonious. Here, the Church of the Industrial Saints’ TYPICAL HUNCHBACK technological contribution is enormous but practically invisible. All of their devices are kept behind the scenes, This generic character can be used with the Metabarons and, as in the Emerald City in the land Oz, only the lavish Roleplaying Game. beauty of gold and platinum is visible to the naked eye. Agility 5D: brawling 7D, firearms 8D, melee combat 6D, running 6D. Knowledge 1D: intimidation 6D. Me- ENVIRONMENT AND RESIDENTS chanical 3D. Perception 3D. Strength 5D: lift 6D. Tech- In an environment where luxury vies with munificence nical 1D. Psionics 0D. Move 10. Character Points 3. and the grandiose with the sublime, where technological Equipment: Techno-implants (+1D STR to resist damage, tools galore put life’s ups and downs out of mind, tens of torso only), Disintegrator 48 (12D damage), suprapistol thousands of Aristos, served by armies of robo-servants, (5D damage), shock-knife (STR+1D+2 damage), uniform. rule and oppress the lives of billions of individuals with Note: Memories are retained for 24 hours after remodel- their supreme contempt. Disdain is second nature to the ing. After that, the Hunchback’s greatest desire is to kill, Aristos, who have given up their Infra-Nobility status and which he does on command or if what he’s guarding ap- access (however limited) to the Golden Planet to be at the pears to be in danger. top of a something, however unpleasant the bottom is. That disdain underlies everything they do, from their tor- HE INE INGS T N R rid orgies in the Red Ring — not without hefty body- The government’s urban-planning guards — to their relationships with program keeps the Endocity’s register their fellow Aristos. Desire is their driv- up to date. Although this is relatively ing force, lust their fuel, and easy in the upper rings, the task gets The Golden concupiscence their highway. Despite more difficult the further down the Ring everything around them urging them rings you go and becomes quite com- “Reality is simply reality. to be nonchalant and live the good life, plicated below the primal ring. The un- I wear a halo, and you do they constantly feel disgraced by their derground cave dwellers are not not! Social barriers cannot imprisonment in an Endocity far from counted and the galleries they dig are be erased… If you want to the Golden Planet and the real centers simply ignored. Although the Techno- live with me, eat and sleep of power. They may be the rulers of a Technos could easily keep accurate with me, make love to me small world, but their kingdom is a records of human and mutant activi- every night, you must be- sandcastle in a storm. ties in the Endocity, they can’t be both- come my dog.” —Louz de SITES AND SIGHTS ered. It doesn’t serve their master plan. Garra, an Aristo in love. The Prime Minister’s residence can be found exactly at the Gold Ring’s the Endocity’s brain, sits. This specimen of subtle engi- geometric center and is by far the most ambi- neering with an incalculable cerebral power presides over tious and sumptuous building in the entire the destiny of the entire planet, under the direct control Endocity. But never in a million years would the of the Techno-Centrix, the supreme Techno-Techno in- Prez lower himself to honor the Prime Minister with telligence, based on Central Planet. These mega-comput- a visit — “What? go down to that rotten dump?” And ers maintain a permanent and direct liaison using the most yet it is well worth a visit for its peaceful ponds, in- advanced of the mysterious Techno-Techno connection door gardens where cute, artificial — but undeniably routes. From an urbanistic view, the various specialized alive — animals frolic, delicately perfumed air, huge zones have been arranged according to the function they

Chapter 5 • 66 verandas, temples, and fluid structures. In fact, all the provide. The hospital zone is accessible only to the most abodes in the Gold Ring are masterpieces in their genre. fortunate of inhabitants, those of the Golden Ring, the Silver Ring, and, if absolutely necessary, from the Blue SECURITY LEVEL AND SURVEILLANCE SYSTEMS Ring as well. This zone consists of thousands of operat- The Gold Ring has the highest security of all the nine ing rooms with busy robo-surgeons, coupled with a long rings. Surveillance systems everywhere, directly linked to series of corridors leading to patients’ rooms, which are the Central Computer and the forces of repression, keep more or less luxurious according to whom the room is a discreet and efficient watch. Techno-Techno control is reserved. The control and surveillance rooms are grouped at a maximum here. Only the Aristos, who the systems around the Central Computer room and can only be ac- automatically identify by visual means, and their robo- cessed by the Techno-Technos. Their cold functionality servants are allowed to circulate freely. Bottom-up entry is characteristic of the Magnus Dei. The Endoguards’ points have also been designed to resist all forms of at- quarters are even more spartan. The Endoguards sleep in tack. In other words, you’ve got to be pretty suicidal to vertical compartments that take up only one square meter attempt a coup here. of floor space and three meters in height. To lodge the RUMORS 10,000 men of the Endoguard battalion sent to each • “Have you heard? The Prez has secretly cloned him- Endocity, two and a half acres suffice, which represents a self into a female mutant and is mating with all the lowlife surface that is smaller than the terrace of the Prime in the forbidden district.” Minister’s residence in the Golden Ring. Finally, the zones • “No way! He’s cloned himself into an anarcho-psy- designated for administration and media are the only ones chotic leader and is turning the Red Ring into a blazing that offer a more lively visual aspect, since their modular bloodbath.” conception permits layout modifications at regular inter- • “Get real! He’s cloned himself into a conscientious vals. It should be said that these are the only areas fre- Blue Ring worker and is living a nice well-ordered life.” quented by the majority of standard bios, those who have • “Paleo-Zeus! Who the hell made this stuff up? The not undergone any particular training or re-programming. fact is he’s cloned himself as me, and now’s the time to The sun’s rays no longer reach beyond this depth. More- make him suffer the ultimate indignation…” over, they don’t even reach the last levels of the Golden Ring • There’s an unshakable myth — if it is a myth — that but for a few minutes or seconds each day. Of course, there says the children of the lower levels are regu-larly abducted is artificial lighting everywhere, but the beneficial effects of to be fed to the diabolical creatures bred by the Gold Ring’s the solar star are a luxury that the ruling classes of the bloodthirsty tyrants. Endocity expressly make their own. An immense prismatic quartz, equipped with photonic deflectors has been set into SPECIAL LAWS AND DECREES low orbit, above the Prez’s vessel. It concentrates and dif- Two basic laws govern human relations between the fuses the solar rays down to the upper levels of the Blue Aristos and the hordes below. Directive 32B-75 stipulates Ring. Of course the quality and intensity are not the same that the Gold Ring is off limits to non-Aristos. Directive everywhere, and as if it needs to be added, the rays are the 32B-76 authorizes the Aristos to “mortally reprimand” best on the upper levels. anyone who breaches the first directive. Immediately under the White Ring, a security level filters access to the two upper-level rings, the surface, and 2 • THE WHITE RING the Prez’s vessel. This impassable barrier — guarded by The level just below the Gold Ring is the White Ring, the most impressive of the Techno-Techno security de- an immense conglomeration of 30 levels, vertically tiered vices, a system of physical twists and turns that prohibits over four kilometers. All of the Endocity administrative physical passage to the front for more than one person at and control offices are concentrated in this zone. Here a time, and most importantly an Endoguard post — is a the population density is much greater than that of the preventative measure against any vague invasion impulse upper level ring, and the housing reflects this greater den- that may cross the minds of the lower-level population. sity. Thousands of descending shafts, moving walkways, This is something that has not yet occurred, but excessive and anti-g elevators cross and entangle one another, in precaution can do no harm. That said, the choice of where the midst of vast halls where stressed-out robots and busy to place the security level ring clearly explains where pri- bio-representatives run back and forth all over the place. orities lie as far as safety is concerned: in case of a prob- The White Ring encloses the Endocity’s most secret and lem, only the two upper level rings would be saved, and best protected room, that where the Central Computer, everyone below would be sacrificed. ENVIRONMENT AND RESIDENTS

67 • Endocities Despite an extremely high-population density, the White all robotic equipment that gets lost in one of Ring is surprisingly quiet. Everyone here efficiently bustles the 29 circulation levels. Likewise, any bio-entity about their work in silence. Well, maybe the patients in that gets lost is cut up and its organs donated to the the hospital zone might scream from time to time when hospital zone’s laboratories. they wake up to find that all their limbs have been short- 3 • THE SILVER RING ened, but the hundreds of millions of robotic entities go noiselessly about their various surgery, surveillance, man- Beneath the security level, at a depth of eight to 12 agement, planning and intervention tasks — in anti-g lift. kilometers below the surface in the planet’s mantle, Communications and instructions are likewise transmit- stretching up over 30 levels is the Silver Ring — the ted by silent impulses. Even the battalion of Endoguards Golden Ring’s poor cousin, unanimously scorned by the billeted here makes hardly any noise. The only exception upper-level Aristos. Certainly, the Silver Ring could be is the media zone. Everyone, from one of the many called a pretty place, a city that in itself lends to an agree- Diavaloo clones and human technician-operators to an able way of life, with its airy spaces, and lovely facades. eye witness of a horrific disaster, goes out of their way to But it absolutely lacks the decadent and scathing breath make as much noise as possible, as if they were single- of inspiration that brings about all of the Golden Ring’s handedly trying to resist the machines’ militant silence. charm. Here, the architectural style and the atmosphere that prevails is the faithful reflection of its inhabitants, SITES AND SIGHTS intermediary cogs in the wheel, stuck between the higher The colossal Central Hypertele Division alone — 15 spheres, which they will never reach yet passionately long levels high spread across ten kilometers — is a good rea- to be a part of, and the despised lower-level populations son for the 12 years of patience it takes on average to with whom they are forced to rub elbows. Everything func- obtain a visa to visit the White Ring. Once you have seen tions with a touch and, although not luxurious, is quality the refrigerated hall where tens of thousands of girl clones made and of measured good taste. This closed universe, wait to be gently warmed up for a dance, you can really without great interest, withdrawn and at times burden- die happy. For the really lucky — those who get authori- some, most certainly represents the inaccessible Grail for zation — the hospital zone’s morgue is also worth a look. those underneath. But here, one lives with their eyes and hopes turned upwards, where simple villas would be pal- SECURITY LEVEL AND SURVEILLANCE SYSTEMS aces, and in perpetual fear of the ultimate tidal wave of The White Ring is the central system consolidating all anger and discontent rising from the lower masses. the operational bodies of power. As such, it requires special protection, particularly since it is the interface be- ENVIRONMENT AND RESIDENTS tween two completely different worlds. The Silver Ring is the headquarters Here, electronic surveillance reaches of the Endocity’s working rulers. The new heights especially since the White The Intra-urban Aristos wallow in idleness. The Silvers Ring is pretty much the private reserve Ferrymen work. At least, they force themselves of the Techno-Technos. Here, they ex- There are “ferrymen,” bus to live well-ordered productive lives periment with systems of unprec- drivers, taxi drivers, or deliv- and every day go conscientiously to edented sophistication. In addition to ery endo-nef drivers, who, their posts, where they watch the clock technological protection, the White acting on their own, propose while drinking SPV, but in moderation. Ring can also call on an entire battal- diverse services that are not There is no flamboyance here, just dis- ion of Endoguards stationed here. The always lawful. A “ferryman” creet decorum that is the butt of Aristo ring’s lower level is one big protection generally possesses a private ridicule. In addition to a penchant for and security area: a no man’s land scal- vehicle and knows every discretion and thrift, the Silvers also ing 135 meters across tens of thousands endo-port in his Endocity, differ in their natural tendency to save. of square kilometers — perfect terrain traveling in record time from Stuck between the unattainable easy for a trench war. one level to another, and life and the teeming lower levels, the Silver Ring is in a constant state of RUMORS helping his passengers to avoid being subjected to the anxiety that it has only ever managed The underground levels firmly believe authorities’ anger. According to assuage by amassing ever more that a minute design fault has created a to his designated allocation wealth. Understandably, as these re- small breach in the White Ring’s airtight or the people he is transport- sources are taken directly from the security. This means that if a determined ing, he can easily have access crumbs the Aristos leave for the lower team managed to isolate the lower level’s to a warehouse, garage or floors, the entire population of the general power supply, it could get a foot- mechanics garage, a safe ref- Endocity hates the Silvers as compan- hold on this highly protected floor and, uge or a discrete airlock with ions in misfortune who exploit their from there, reach the surface. direct access to upper-level poverty and rob them. SPECIAL LAWS AND DECREES rings. SITES AND SIGHTS Order XB 28-7 provides for the re- If the Silvers ever gave a guided tour turn to the maintenance workshop of of their domain, the Silver Ring’s cen- nothing more than something “once seen somewhere.” tral warehouse would be the first dream desti- Here begins the dismal reign. nation. You have to see this gigantic edifice, not At the junction of the Blue and Green Rings, a vast so much for its quite banal architecture, but for what overhanging promenade makes its way around the shaft. is stored there. As with lobster, the best is inside. Ten This is Suicide Alley. Perky Endocity citizens like to stroll floors high and nearly 20 kilometers across, the cen- around this wide promenade to watch people fall, and tral warehouse gives a whole new slant to the idea of those who have reached rock bottom come to meditate Ali Baba’s cave. on the endless emptiness of their existence before throw- ing themselves over. Chapter 5 • 68 SECURITY LEVEL AND SURVEILLANCE SYSTEMS The Silver Ring is beneath the security level, so it is ENVIRONMENT AND RESIDENTS pretty much on its own in defending itself against the The luxury stops here. Some very pleasant havens are ragged hordes below. Yet the Silvers have no lack of re- dotted about to and fro, but they seem out of place. It’s as sources and are always equipped with formidably effi- if they’ve been randomly planted there, flowers in the cient systems. The most sophisticated technology is ex- middle of a garbage dump. As the facades peel and crack, clusively reserved for the Aristos and the White Ring, but the inhabitants all take on the same tired look, stooping the second choice still offers very powerful solutions. and staring. From this level on, leisure is less subtle and Colossal firepower hooked up to detection devices points distractions more radical. The millstone of the Necro- at the lower levels. Dream starts to weigh heavily around their necks. Their mind-numbing lives are filled with mediocre drugs and RUMORS hypertele everywhere. It is impossible to choose any other The age-old rumor here, even though it might be mere path and easy to understand why thousands of applicants delusion, is that the guardians of the Silver Ring can enter turn up daily at Suicide Alley on the lower level. A mid- the Gold Ring once they have lived in the Silver Ring for way point, the Blue Ring is “the mean” in all senses of the a hundred generations. On the lower levels, some say that word. the Silvers are all the crazy bastard children of the Aristos. Further down, they swear blind that they are the submis- SITES AND SIGHTS sive slaves of the Aristos, that the SPV keeps them in a You can’t really appreciate the Endocity until you’ve state of frustrated lust, and that certain glands are sys- seen Suicide Alley. This wide, airy promenade is the soul tematically removed from them to make them lethargic. of the shaft, the very essence of life in this dismal world. Word everywhere also has it that the Silver Ring’s best- If you really want to capture all the blissfully dramatic looking young girls and boys are regularly taken to the poetry of the place, go at dawn when the climate regula- top to be “consumed.” tion system considerately produces a fine ashen mist that lingers in long ribbons along the jagged edges of the gray SPECIAL LAWS AND DECREES teflo-concrete. Just before six o’clock, when the first des- Legislation AR-01-0R specifically states: “Silver is sil- perately lost soul arrives, broken-spirited and desolate, a ver and gold is gold. Forget that at your own peril.” few drops of rain subtly fall to heighten the intensity of 4 • THE BLUE RING the moment. A last look, a last sob… And he jumps. Do feel free to applaud. Below the Silver Ring, still deeper toward the planet’s core, comes the Blue Ring, the last ring where one can SECURITY LEVEL AND SURVEILLANCE SYSTEMS still catch a glimpse of the sky. Already the sun’s rays — The Blue Ring has few vital or strategic points, so there concentrated and diffused by the prismatic quartz — only are not many automatic security systems. However, there reach but a small portion of the ring. With a height of is a massive police presence. Bands of cybo-cops constantly fifty levels spread out vertically over four kilometers, the circulate or hover nearby, ready to intervene. Around Sui- Blue Ring is a long succession of habitation units where cide Alley especially, it is not uncommon for a movement the charming, mediocre, and sometimes even the dilapi- from the crowd — often just showing their enthusiasm dated alternate. Hundreds of millions of people live in for a particularly outstanding leap — to provoke a furi- this space. They represent the average Endocity citizen. ous charge. When this happens, the dead are not counted They are those who execute with zeal and ardor the use- among the total suicides, unless of course they jump of less tasks that they are given, before wisely returning home their own free will. to indulge in the lawful enjoyment of the hypertele and RUMORS Cocaloco Dark. Surrounding the central shaft, the habitation galleries plunge deep into the planet, reaching down “Suicide Alley is closing down!” This is the most fre- several hundreds of kilometers. A dense transportation quent of the alarmist rumors and the one that can push network links the different zones. Here and there, the decor the desperate over the edge. Yet word also has it that the is brightened by some artificial islands of vegetation. Cer- suicide victims don’t actually die but are intercepted to be tain quarters can even appear agreeable. However, as one used as guinea pigs. After a fall of approximately five proceeds down the shaft, the quality of housing and fa- minutes and 45 seconds — 18 kilometers at some 200 cilities becomes progressively poorer. As one approaches kilometers an hour — a recuperation system just above the edge of the Green Ring, the agreeable buildings are the surface of the Acid Lake is said to catch the condemned wretches — at least those not killed in the fall — and make them disappear from. with the habit — learnt from childhood by play- 69 • Endocities ing at survival in the dumps — of living each mo- SPECIAL LAWS AND DECREES ment as if it were their last. Before they go mad, the The famous special SHOOT-75 decree authorizes any- Greens are basically happy souls. They laugh at ev- one to hasten the suicide victims’ passage to the beyond, erything, others and themselves. although combat lasers and sonic weapons are prohibited. Nevertheless, regulation FAIL-76 considers failed suicides SITES AND SIGHTS — accidental fall from an intermediate terrace — to be a The entire Green Ring is an interesting sight. This violation of private property liable to a 200-kublar fine. assembly of long uniform bars — made from a jagged The debt is immediately and irrevocably contracted as soon jumble caused by fire and destruction — harbors many as the infringement is recorded and the fine pronounced — treasures. Here, there’s a makeshift camp built around generally within three to five seconds. huge braziers with a swarm of screaming kids who methodically destroy the automatic transport. There, at the 5 • THE GREEN RING bend of a ripped-up avenue, is a huge open-air market Fifth ring down from the surface, the Green Ring owes where bartering, black marketeering, receiving, and all its name to reflections from Acid Lake, which tinge the sur- sorts of trafficking go on amidst rows of housing blocks, rounding air with greenish glimmers. If the Blue Ring is like a return to the wild. Everywhere, life bursts forth considerably less welcoming and comfortable than the violent and unruly with a never-ending show of despair, Golden Ring, the difference between the Blue and Green confrontations, and jubilant guffaws. Rings is at least as great, if not greater. There are 100 levels SECURITY LEVEL AND SURVEILLANCE SYSTEMS packed in one against the other along the four allotted kilometers of height, double the amount of levels in the Blue Official surveillance within the bounds of the Green Ring. Here there is no synthetic vegetable decor, not the Ring is the most moderate. The inhabitants can tear each smallest flourish, nor the tiniest ornament, just hundreds of other’s guts out in peace with no fear of being charged by stereotypically aligned kilometers. Housing is in decrepit a squad of irate cybo-cops. However, when things take condition. Even on an Endocity inauguration day, the foot on alarming proportions, and if the situation risks spread- bridges, like the facades, have the same dilapidated appear- ing into the neighboring rings, the robofiremen descend ance as the ruins they are going to become. Despite their with cybo-cop riot units and sometimes even the degree of elevated technology, the trans- Endoguard. port systems, which run throughout the RUMORS innermost recesses of the hundred lev- The day will come when the hordes els, appear ancient. The automatic repair Concrete Seagulls of outcasts will rise from the bowels of systems are deactivated, and traces of fire the shaft and attack the higher levels. and other damages accumulate, paint- It’s from the Green Ring ing a picture of hopeless devastation. that one can catch a glimpse SPECIAL LAWS AND DECREES From an architectural and urbanistic of the first “concrete Here, the law is stated as an adage: point of view, the Green Ring reminds seagulls.” These winged crea- Bio-life is tolerated as long as the one of the most hideous urban projects tures who come from the Endocity runs smoothly. that not so long ago disfigured Terra lowest levels, notably from Prima’s megalopolises… but in an even the Primal Ring’s enormous 6 • THE RED RING worse version. garbage dumps, feed them- The 50 levels of the Red Ring stretch selves on the micro-organ- out between the twentieth and twenty- ENVIRONMENT AND RESIDENTS isms that grow on the teflo- fourth kilometers below the planet’s The Green Ring’s three to four bil- concrete walls as a result of surface. The Red Ring is an agglomera- lion inhabitants would love to leave this their being passed over by tion of disparate constructions made staggeringly crammed and overpopu- the cleaning systems. Peeping immediately recognizable by their scar- lated place. Here, density hits astound- and ravenous, the concrete let color. In fact, the streets are covered ing record highs, surpassing all reason- seagulls are practically offer- by a crimson-colored teflo-tarmac layer. able bounds. It is not humanly possible ing a public service in pre- Billions of neon facades are reflected in to endure such overcrowding without venting the proliferation of the tarmac, casting a thousand ruby-col- going mad. So the Greens, used to be- mutant seaweed and mush- ored lights on every horizon of this cir- ing constantly on the verge of madness, rooms. Their excrement falls cular space. The ring of the most ex- have wound up partially immunizing into the Acid Lake, which treme and unrestrained pleasures, it ap- themselves against depression. Al- reinforces its corrosive pears less rundown than its immediate though every day brings its batch of power. Despite their natu- neighbors. But the flashing lights and massacres and bloody murders commit- rally wild character, it is said showcases conceal a nameless crass that ted under the effects of a totally under- that certain ones have been is the strict reflection of the prevailing standable psychotic lunacy, all things tamed. debauchery. This said, having legal ac- considered, it could be worse. This at- cess to the most diverse of synthetic titude probably has something to do paradises, as well as ultra- Suicide Alley qualified services in human, The only place in the Endocity where suicide is legally authorized alien, mutant, and synthetic — from six o’clock in the morning to ten o’clock at night, seven days prostitution, visitors can easily for- a week — Suicide Alley attracts the curious and desperate Endocity get the ambient ugliness as they masses. “Intelligent” billboards placed at intervals of 50 meters each drown themselves in a whirlwind display the hour and total number of suicides. By request (and paid of endless orgies. for), the boards can also furnish statistics of those who have commit-

Chapter 5 • 70 ENVIRONMENT AND RESIDENTS ted suicide — sex, age, and the number of unfortunate ones who ar- All sorts of beings tread the Red rive at Acid Lake still alive. For the modest sum of three kublars, one Ring’s vermilion tarmac. In addition can even watch the day’s best suicide sequences. The curious onlook- to the locals — prostitutes of all shapes ers who come to watch the last jumps of voyagers leaving for a possi- and sizes, legal and illegal drug dealers, bly better world, applaud their performances from the parapet, or thugs, hoods, louts, receivers, informers, even from small barges in stationary flight in the shaft. The most thieves, and murderers — countless day sadistic spectators prefer to shoot at those committing suicide, deriv- trippers pour in day and night to slum ing great pleasure from depriving the unlucky ones from their ulti- it, get wildly drunk, wallow in the opi- mate chosen trip. For those who choose to die, the process isn’t as ate fumes, fight, get robbed, or simply simple as it may seem. All the more so because for the unlucky ones kill someone for kicks. It’s a favorite who botch their fall, an unpleasant surprise awaits them: a 200 kublar hangout for bands of binging Aristos, fine for a failed suicide. An injured person in agony — who landed duly escorted by their Hunchback badly on an intermediary platform — will find himself being booked minders. However, all levels of the by the cybo-cops on duty, even if he ends up dying in the following Endocity’s population visit the Red seconds. As soon as the fine is announced, it is registered, and the Ring’s establishments at some stage or debt is passed on to the surviving members of the family. other. Despite the rundown interiors behind the flashy shop windows — like the haggard features of an old whore under her thick make-up — this mecca of depravity has a it’s wise to go out armed or accompanied. However, the strong magnetism that no one can resist. It is the center of units of Hunchbacks and cybo-cops have direct access shafts the Endocity, its heartbeat. they can use to surge through the Red Ring’s 50 levels in record time. Crime control is simple: as soon as the crime SITES AND SIGHTS statistics reach a certain level, the troops descend. The cybo- The Homeo First Club, the largest homeo-whorehouse, cops then eliminate thousands of people at random. Conse- is the crown temple of love for sale. Here, customers can quently, although some of the victims are innocent bystand- find the perfect partner and steer clear of those imperfec- ers who are generally visiting customers, crime usually plum- tions that diminish their pleasure and bridle their fanta- mets. But it doesn’t last long, and the whole cycle starts sies. Customers over again. To escape the monotony, the Central Computer mix and match has introduced a random variable into the definition of the The Flesh their chosen crime level whereby two raids can be organized just two Industry whore’s body days apart. However, six months could also pass without a Prostitution is primarily parts safe in the single visit from the cybo-cops. The only thing that’s for concentrated in the Red knowledge that sure is that you never know when it’s going to happen. Ring. As a general rule, the the curve of the RUMORS prostitutes work for a bar or hip and the breast The Red Ring’s main roads and alleyways buzz with a a “house of pleasure” and will perfectly rep- thousand and one rumors. The most insistent is the pre- are in this case under the pro- licate the erotic diction of an imminent cybo-cop raid. However, it’s not tection of a pimp-guardian. dream they had uncommon to hear that the Prez himself will make an However, some do work for the night before. impromptu visit — incognito since a recent secret cloning themselves, doing business SECURITY LEVEL — or that a troupe of perverse Aristos disguised as psycho- on the streets. As the Red AND anarchists will descend on the place. Another rumor that Ring is frequented by all SURVEILLANCE regularly goes round is that of an imminent armed raid types of tourists, window SYSTEMS on the lower levels, which could well prove to be pro- shoppers, and buyers, it is Unlike most of phetic. Word also often has it that the cybo-cops some- not uncommon for the dis- the rings, the Red times take specimens up from the Red Ring to satisfy the crete eyes and ears of the Ring is not under Aristos’ curiosity. streets to become aware of constant surveil- rumors, confessions, and SPECIAL LAWS AND DECREES lance. There is no little known secrets. watching eye at ev- An arsenal of legal texts — changing day to day with ery street corner so the Hunchbacks’ bad moods — govern the conditions under which theft and racketeering are

71 • Endocities not really authorized, but more or less Street Preachers SITES AND SIGHTS tolerated. When the police forces in- When they are not in the The Primal Ring’s meta-dump tervene, they more often than not in- streets, haranguing the is a sight to be seen, even if it is a voke Decree ZB23-6 before firing into crowds, these apocalyptic bit of a health hazard. Elsewhere, the crowd. A rider still in force defines prophets and other revolu- the factories offer a most interest- the status of the pimp-guardians — the tionary cult priests are found ing visit, especially since they con- human prostitutes’ official pimps. And hanging out on the terraces tain all the equipment needed to in- the Central Computer’s imprescriptible of Red Ring bars (where they spire guerrilla and other terrorist Edict 001 lays down the conditions for recuperate from paleo- hang- attacks. But be warned: Techno- the closure of levels by the cybo-cops overs and the effects of hal- Techno vigilance is high here. and the random eradication of delin- lucinogenic drugs). Their SECURITY LEVEL AND quent populations. Hearing a loud- only “power” lies in convinc- SURVEILLANCE SYSTEMS speaker blare “Pursuant to Edict ing a few citizens of their 001…” generally means you’ve only corrupt lives and their era’s Wherever the presence of unofficial got a few more seconds to live. degradation. But if certain bio-intruders is no trouble, they are simply ignored and even tolerated. 7 • THE PRIMAL RING sermons incite no more than a general indifference, other However, the protected zones are Immediately beneath the Red Ring more convincing ones set off guarded by force fields, automatic fir- comes the Primal Ring. This industrial veritable riots. The preachers ing batteries, and psychopathic cybo- ring, which stretches out over hundreds are closely watched by the cops who are not particularly good at of kilometers in length and four kilo- cybo-cops, and frequently negotiating. meters in height, is an infinite series of serve as scapegoats for urban RUMORS production sites, warehousing, recy- incidents that are even pro- Two main rumors take turns circu- cling and treatment plants, and purifi- voked by the cybo-cops lating around the lower rings. Some cation and elimination sites. It is here themselves! that the planet’s natural treasures — the days, they say that the extermination ore and energy resources that it con- of the Endocity’s population will be tains — are collected, concentrated, and planned and orchestrated by the Pri- transformed before being injected into the Endocity. It is mal Ring. Other days, they swear that terrorist troupes also from the Primal Ring that the Techno-Technos’ main- will attack the ring and seize all the arms it contains to tenance robots manage the gigantic Endocity distribution take the entire Endocity. And when some harmless epi- network. This colossal maze — which covers each level demic hits the neighboring levels, they insist on an al- of every ring in all directions — distributes air, water, and leged plan by the authorities to spread deadly diseases light and transports all of the technical cables for the cli- throughout all the lower levels. But then again, maybe mate-control system. Hundreds of millions of kilometers that’s not just gossip… of ducts and pipes run throughout the planet’s belly, hid- SPECIAL LAWS AND DECREES den in the globe’s mass. However, quantities of other un- A constantly updated manufacturing schedule defines accounted-for tunnels have been pierced, especially in the the Primal Ring’s production goals. Should the planning lower levels. In addition to these facilities and infrastruc- departments think these goals cannot be met, law PROD ture, the Primal Ring houses a water reservoir large enough 59-7 authorizes them to massively recruit all the man- to hold an ocean and an enormous dump, bigger than the power they need from the Blue, Green, and Red Rings to biggest of Endoguard vessels. get back on schedule. Paragraph 37-6 of this law also ENVIRONMENT AND RESIDENTS provides for an adjustment of demand to supply (that is, Despite the din of the machines and the cursed blast of the elimination of consumers who cannot be satisfied). It their putrid breath, the Primal Ring is virtually a haven of goes without saying that any such extermination concerns peace. They work conscientiously and meticulously in a only the inhabitants of the last six rings. soft hiss of well-oiled movements, under the cool eye of 8 • THE SUB RING the bio-operators high on SPV. From time to time, a long fatigued sigh troubles this beautiful mechanical order. Nev- Next come the bowels of the Endocity, the unmention- ertheless, bands of kids from the neighboring rings haunt able and forgotten — a place where very few inhabitants the giant tips, hardened from pitting their wits against of the upper levels have ever gone. There is first the Sub the vigilant reflexes of the surveillance robots. In the zones Ring, a layer of 50 levels laden with unaccounted for tun- where the Techno-Techno rulers all too happily leave them nel-like galleries where the most miserable populations of to their own devices, social misfits and dropouts from all the Endocity rot: the deprived, imported as they are from levels claim scraps of abandoned technology and patch other worlds of agony, or the destitute that a swarming them together for new uses. concentration of humanity naturally produces. But that’s not all, because ten levels are strictly reserved for mu- the mutant neigh- tants, those pariahs among pariahs. The mu- borhood is sur- The Plight of the tant quarter is a hermetically closed area, sinister rounded by a dra- Mutants and lugubrious, where all light is forbidden. Access conian surveil- Like all the mutants in the is strictly controlled, but the Prez’s Hunchbacks and lance system, and universe, those in the the cybo-cops don’t consider it beneath themselves to those who at- Endocities are victims of the go down from time to time to expend some of their tempt to leave be- destructive effects of technol- aggressive energy. fore the age of 21 ogy. Namely, the pillage of are immediately Chapter 5 • 72 ENVIRONMENT AND RESIDENTS element K — human aware- eliminated. The Sub Ring, a land of social outcasts, dropouts, ness or the life force inher- and mutants, is a foretaste of hell. Life here is far from RUMORS ent in humans — by the Techno-Techno machines, easy. Supplies rarely arrive, and the standard installa- Word has it that which makes them into a tions and equipment are just heaps of teflo-concrete de- the Endocity’s au- humanity hybrid. In the fu- livered and left as they are by the Techno-Techno ma- thorities plan to sion, they take on an animal chines. There may be loads of space, but these vast bare raise the level of characteristic and lose a part expanses where only a few landslides provide some relief the Acid Lake un- of what made them full- are anything but welcoming. For the authorities, it’s as if expectedly one fledged humans. the Endocity ended at the Primal Ring. Everything after day to drown all that is irrelevant. The poor wretches who live here know the inhabitants of they cannot count on handouts from the city. And when the Black Ring they are stigmatized, as the mutants are, the problems and the Sub Ring. attain an unimaginable level. Aside from the mutants, the Sub Ring harbors all the Endocity’s rejects, those with SPECIAL LAWS AND DECREES nothing left to sell and no more strength to steal. Two main measures govern the lives of the mutants. Firstly, there is a total ban on light and color in the ten SITES AND SIGHTS levels of their neighborhood — by order of the Techno- The totally run- Techno urb-ethnologists, who believe that it prevents down Sub Ring Water Reserves mutants from yielding to their animal instincts. Secondly, offers nothing of mutants are prohibited from leaving the GTO before the Water that planets contain interest to the visi- age of 21. Anyone who does will be shot on sight by the before their transformation tor, except maybe urban hunters. The law governing the urban hunters is into an Endocity is given the mutant neigh- fairly flexible, and there are no repercussions for killing over to the Ekonomat. In borhood — the an adult mutant. exchange, the Ekonomat of- GTO on a portion fers one of its exclusive se- of level 30 of the TYPICAL MUTANT cret hydrogen-and-oxygen- city-shaft. Particu- This generic character can be used with the Metabarons separation devices. A reser- larly perverse Roleplaying Game. voir the size of an inland sea Aristos pay exor- Agility 3D+1: brawling 4D, melee combat 3D+2, run- is coupled with the system. bitant prices for ning 4D+1. Knowledge 3D+2: streetwise 4D+2, survival With a capacity equaling one the 20-odd tourist 4D+1, willpower 4D. Mechanical 2D. Perception 3D+2: week’s consummation, it passes issued ev- hide 5D, sneak 4D+2. Strength 3D: climb/jump 3D+1, serves as a reserve back-up ery year for this lift 3D+1. Technical 2D+1. Psionics 0D. Move 10. Char- system. The water is neither neighborhood. acter Points 1. Equipment: Ragged clothes. Note: Indi- purified nor recycled. After Suicidal and reck- vidual mutants may have special abilities, such as claws use in the distribution sys- less explorers can (STR+1D) or sticky spit (victim gets +5 to all difficulties tem, it is collected, then sepa- always try their when using affected limb or body part). rated into hydrogen and oxy- luck without the gen atoms. The impurities, pass, but no one 9 • THE BLACK RING sediment, and other residue who has at- Finally, comes the Black Ring, the point of the Endocity’s are automatically evacuated tempted it has conic shape, the last trace of the Techno-Techno interven- into the Acid Lake. Even if ever come back. tion in the interior of the planet. With only ten levels spread somewhere in its memory vertically over four kilometers of height, the Black Ring of- SECURITY LEVEL banks the Central Computer fers the same vast spaces as the Golden Ring, but the decor AND SURVEILLANCE has a precise record of the is quite different. The lowest level, the tenth, forms the bank SYSTEMS distribution network, no hu- of Acid Lake. Far from being a holiday resort, this coast of man being could possibly No measures desolation is nothing but a long shoreline of teflo-concrete comprehend the extent or have been taken blocks eaten away by the lake’s ultracorrosive fumes. Sur- entirety of this system. to ensure civil vival may seem impossible here. However, one comes across peace in the Sub crowds of people: the psycho-anarchists, the worst of the Ring. However, Endocity’s mobs, the most extreme sects, completely prohibited secret societies, and tons of bored

73 • Endocities desperados ready and willing to explode The Urban RUMORS the planet in order to forget the tedium Terrorists Of all the rumors in the of their existence. Everywhere where author- Endocity, those about the Black Managing such a group as revealed ity and discipline are lauded Ring are the worst: They are can- here may seem complicated, but the as virtues, protest and anar- nibals, they breed creatures from Techno-Technos dispose of weapons that chy come into being, as do hell, they have made a pact with the constitute a considerable power and aid. so many other natural underground forces, and so on. It is The Central Computer is instanta- counter-currents, and are also said that they guard the entrance neously informed of anything brewing thus anticipated by the to a fabulous secret world where or being plotted in the lower level areas Techno-Technos. The urban mind-boggling treasures lie. But no- and can immediately dispatch one of the terrorists are rarely isolated body has ever managed to find out if many intervention forces at its service and generally act within the this is true. — Hunchbacks, cybo-cops, or numerous small anarchist SPECIAL LAWS AND DECREES Endoguards — to quickly restore order. groups found in the Only two laws apply here: the law of But there are still other advantages, Endocities. In abandoned the jungle, and the law of the strongest. in particular the Necro-Dream. In fact, warehouses, they secretly as the Endocity is a perfectly enclosed gather to stir up assassi-na- THE ACID LAKE space, it is the ideal place to implement tion attempts and prepare the subtle stratagem of subser-vience, for rioting. If rebellion is a The Acid Lake is a huge swampy res- which maintains the general population necessity for some, for oth- ervoir with greenish fluorescent waves in a contented state of dumbstruck bliss. ers it is just a form of dis- as caustic as snake urine. It is created In addition to the Necro-Dream, the traction and amusement. during the construction of an Endocity mind of the masses is well occupied by These grassroots terrorists go to receive all the waste from the ma- the omnipresent drug culture, the to great lengths to add some chines building the cities. The organic hypertele, suicides, riots, terrorist acts, animation to the streets. remains of the living organisms ab- and accidents caused by the psycho- However, these urban terror- sorbed by the machines — humanoids, anarchists — all perfectly mastered and ists should not be confused fauna, flora, etc. — are also tipped into orchestrated by the Magnus Dei hench- with Amok crimi-nals, who the lake. Once a city-shaft has been men — which further encourages the don’t even have the decency completed, no one — not even the masses to stay huddled together, snug- and manners to warn the 3D Techno-urbanists — knows where its gling in their mutual stupor. hypertele when they plant a toxic flow goes. This creates a great Thanks to the Church of the Indus- bomb! deal of gossip and conjecture. However, trial Saints, the Necro-Dream is spread- one thing’s for sure, they seep down ing, and the Tenebrae’s opaque shroud slowly and form a liquid core at the is slowly masking the conscious of liv- center of the planet — a highly dan- ing beings. gerous and volatile concentrate. ENVIRONMENT AND RESIDENTS THE CRADOS The Black Ring is an asylum of misery and desolation, Below the Black Ring, on the very edge of the Acid a vast closed, arid space where the Endocity’s waste ar- Lake, legend has it that there is a race of “garbage people,” rives en masse and the city-shaft’s most wretched subsist the remnants of the people who lived on the planet before in conditions closer to barbarity than civilization. On this the Techno-Technos claimed it. Only the lowest denizens fertile compost heap, violence and resentment flourish. of the Black Ring might have seen this lost race. Even if The upper levels couldn’t care less about their fate; they’d you could ask them, you’d never know whether they were rather see them all dead. lying. SITES AND SIGHTS TYPICAL ENDOCITY CITIZEN In addition to the psycho-anarchists, different rebel clans have set up base here. They have dug new galleries where This generic character can be used with the Metabarons they have set up a confusion of camps built from all sorts Roleplaying Game for any adult human living below the of salvaged materials. The Aristos would find the place Silver Ring. A lucky few might have a couple of kublars, great fun for an evening, but life on the shores of the Acid but those will be spent as fast as possible on drugs, enter- Lake gets more hideous every day. tainment, or food (in that order). Agility 2D: brawling 2D+2, dodge 2D+2, running 3D. SECURITY LEVEL AND SURVEILLANCE SYSTEMS Knowledge 2D: streetwise 3D, security regulations 2D+1, The Techno-Techno authorities do not think it worth- survival 3D. Mechanical 2D. Perception 2D: bargain while to install any surveillance in the Black Ring. How- 2D+2, con 2D+1, gaming 3D+1. Strength 2D. Technical ever, all the rebel factions who have set up base here mount 2D. Psionics 0D. Move 10. Character Points 0. Equip- a guard 24 hours a day. They rightly fear a fatal raid by the ment: Clothes. surface forces and live in a permanent state of emergency. T H E U N I V E R S E

“Pssst… More than 30,000 years to come to this… multitude of passageways leading toward distant zones and What sadness! I can’t even find the words to tell you galaxies. As space is curved, these wormholes constitute how I feel. And yet! And yet all the same, everything shortcuts between points which are extremely distant from could have been so different… no lies, no treason. If one another if one follows the outlines of the curve, but only man had not forgotten… near if one cuts across the curve. The universe preserved “Allow me to reveal certain secrets and share my re- some of these passageways which had been naturally formed grets. For never again, in perhaps all of eternity, will an during its creation. But humans, and particularly the adher- intelligent being have the chance to hold such richness ents of the Church of the Industrial Saints, constructed phe- in his hands, and have within his reach a power equal to nomenal quantities of manmade passageways. These fan- that of the gods. Because the universe is an almost inex- tastic communication routes facilitate exploration of the haustible source of kindness, and if man had had the wis- most remote zones, allowing the Empire to establish its he- dom to make good use of it, he could have spent all of gemony over billions of galaxies. eternity wandering in a continually replenished Eden. From a technical standpoint, it would seem that the Imagine if only for a moment, the colossal quantities of Techno-Techno formula consists in making an antimatter energy, the endlessly infinite space….” containment field that traps, sets, and launches the anti- –John D. matter toward a specific destination. At the very moment of its creation, this atypical polarization collapses inward, much like a black hole whose mass has become too dense, THE MAJOR EQUILIBRIA opening a passage into the intersidereal vacuum. The Considered from a global point of view, the universe is Techno-Technos’ genius lies in their ability to successfully a mass of indistinct and vague contours. It is finite, but it fix this highly unstable state without bringing on cata- has no boundaries. Its aspect is slightly helicoidal, no doubt clysmic side effects. Once open, the tunnel — a long cor- attributable to its original expansion in a tremendous pri- ridor of positive void cutting across the negative void — meval whirlwind, but it reveals on a macro-scale a gen- knows no variations in its state or form. The only way to eral form that could be qualified as parallelepipedal. In enter or exit is through the end points. The entire length short, the universe may be thought of as a brick, more or of the tunnel is protected by a polarized sheath, which no less a cobblestone suspended in the void. physical element, not even the smallest particle of matter, The universe’s mass is neither homogenous nor dense. It can penetrate. is not either one because the universe is studded with “worm- For the time being, the Techno-Technos monopolize the holes” — tunnels made of exogenous matter, which form a tunnel construction industry, but it cannot be ruled out that other powerful groups also master the keys to this technology. Officially, these great highways of intergalac- Number two, electromagnetic interaction, is 75 • The Universe tic communication are under the joint control of the the force which links electrons to the atom’s nucleus. Church of the Industrial Saints and the Endoguard. In Number three, strong interaction, is the force that fact, guarding the tunnels is quite simple, as it suffices to assures the cohesion of the atom’s nucleus. supervise the entrance and exit points, which are gener- Number four is weak interaction, which despite its ally located in proximity to major star systems and galax- name happens to be the force accountable for, among ies. The tunnels shorten the distance between extremely other things, the disintegration of certain particles. For distant galaxies in the universe, but it is still often neces- those who are interested, this last case would other- sary to continue one’s voyage in hyperspace within the wise be known as radioactivity. same galaxy to arrive at one’s destination. Number five, psycho-magnetic interaction, is the at- All in all, the universe contains billions of distinct and traction-repulsion force, which displaces celestial bod- separate galaxies floating in space, which is made up of ies with respect to one another, as a function of the emo- dust, various gases, atomic particles, and other bizarre tional vibrations they emit. things. To give you an idea of its excessive size, take the Number six, cerebro-fluid interaction, is the force with example of Terra Prima’s solar system in the Milky Way which a system’s intelligence acts on the major flux. galaxy. Supposing that the distance between Terra Prima Finally, number seven, cosmo-carnal interaction, is the and its sun represents a micron, one thousandth of a mil- great force that permanently places universal elements of limeter. The diameter of the Milky Way would then be the male principle in rotation around elements associated 6.3 kilometers, the distance between Andromeda and Terra with the female principle. At times, the universe records a Prima would be 126.6 kilometers, the Paleo-Virgo star cosmo-carnal activity peak. These huge orgasmic convul- cluster would be at 2,278.8 kilometers, the Big Dipper sions generally end with a paroxysmal contraction, im- star cluster at 106,344 kilometers, and the probable lim- mediately followed by an overall release, that is some- its of the universe at 759,600 kilometers. times called a galactic rut, or in lay terms, galactic heat. The universe is a wild place, untamed and unpre- These principles have been authenticated and proven dictable. Obviously, it does obey a certain number of laws. to be true more or less everywhere in the Human Uni- First of all, there are of course the seven great physical verse. But as the universe is a rather unfathomable, froth- forces or fundamental interactions known since time im- ing maelstrom, there inevitably exist still other unknown memorial of paleo-history. forces. Moreover, signs of these forces are often percep- Number one, gravitational interaction, commonly tible in the galactic infinity and particularly when one ap- known as gravity, is the attractive force carried out be- proaches the extreme limits or when one has just brushed tween all particles in the universe. up against the universal borders. a scorching hot universe. Similarly, in front of the THE BORDERS OF THE EMPIRE Mardador door, guarded by Ganjez, the universe is light and flowing, but as soon as one crosses the threshold, AND BEYOND one penetrates into a dimension where everything is infi- At the Empire’s borders, with its howling wild winds nitely compact, presenting an extraordinary density. and raging acid rains, the universe is not a friendly Just as suspended molecules search out one another and place. This obscure and ethereal frontier marks the end gather together according to their own alchemy, the uni- of the world as conceived by our intelligence. Bewil- verses group together as a function of attraction-repul- Chapter 6 • 76 deringly barbaric conditions and colossal atmospheric sion factors, generating polarity. It is perhaps a coinci- pressure prevent humans from surviving in this zone. dence of creation that associated the Human Universe with Moreover, certain paleo-erudite scholars, have estimated only six others, but could this number have been another? from some archaic vestiges that the Empire’s borders It should be known that at this time the phenomenon of could very well be the mythical Hell. universes regrouping is not well known. We do not know The borders mark a line that has never been crossed. how many other universes are amalgamated amongst However, what is behind is no longer entirely the un- themselves in a similar fashion. Moreover, nothing refutes known. Today we do know what can be found there. But the existence of an infinite number of parallel universes. it remains that the physical crossing of the borders is still Nevertheless, a certain number of constants may be ob- an absolute impossibility. For your information, below i served: The border of each universe is in every way impass- a never-before-seen document. It is not recent, as it is more able. There is always a door between two universes, and than 20,000 standard years old, but it is enlightening. It the realities, physical and other, of each side of the thresh- illustrates well what a confrontation with the definitive old are systematically diametrically opposed. The doors extreme can represent. existence is a jealously guarded secret, known only by a There has to be something there, in the beyond. There minute number of initiates. Rare are those who have had had been the galacto-barbarian invasions and other in- the privilege to cross the threshold. All the more so because cursions from exogenous aliens. The borders couldn’t be the doors are placed under the care of an extremely vigilant this ultimate extremity that limits reality. But then what custodian, generally a being of sublime essence. These cus- could be there? Do the frontiers have to be a limit, or todians have a material reality in each of the two universes, could they be a threshold? linked by the door they guard. They are mortal but possess Incidentally, it turned out that beyond the borders, there powers and aptitudes exceeding the customary limits of the are other universes. In fact, due to an independent and mortal condition. Furthermore, a specific property is asso- capricious cosmic logic, the finite and autonomous uni- ciated with each door, capable of radically transforming the verses are drawing nearer to one another, assembling them- physical equilibrium of the universe. The custodians are the selves to form an alveolar structure of an inconceivable keepers of these very secrets. dimension on the human scale. the Human Universe is In the Human Universe, the six secret doors that indi- not alone, and there exists an infinite number of parallel cate the passage into other universes, those which only universes, where what is truth here, is nothing more than madmen dare dream of crossing the threshold, are respec- a memory there, and a simple probability elsewhere. tively Mardador, Temper-Ut, Lucioh, Per-Beod, Chonch, All of these universes, stuck one to the other, stacked and Puerko. up like a wall of bricks, are not like Mardador is the door that was, un- watertight cells living side by side in til most recently, guarded by the bird Ganjez. This door leads from the dense extreme ignorance. They know one an- The Known other, see each other, keep up relations, border edges to a light universe, and Universe the mastery of gravity is the secret as- and above all communicate. Remem- What we call the “known” ber that in 13612, the first contacts sociated with it. limits of the universe are Temper-Ut leads from the hot bor- were established with neighboring par- fixed by the Fringe, this gi- allel universes, and in 13637, the Hu- der edges to the freezing limits. This gantic ethereal beltway that door is guarded by Uakl, a tortoise man Universe officially joined the Con- determines the Empire’s federation of Parallel Universes. Thus, made of mercury, who has the secret frontiers. Thus, the space and to modifying temperatures. there exists a point of access. And if worlds comprised within the the borders are perfectly impassable, Guarded by Ophidat, a reptilian en- interior of this line is desig- tity with white and black scales and there exist nevertheless doors, allowing nated as the “Endofringe,” the passage from one universe to an- keeper of the secret to darkness and while the “Exofringe” con- light, Lucioh is the door that leads from other. sists of all that stretches out There are six doors in all. Each one darkness to light. As everyone knows, beyond this frontier. It is im- the Church of the Industrial Saints has opens into a universe which is the ex- portant to note that the act opposite of the one just left behind. a special affinity with this door and its Fringe itself is very wide… custodian. For example, at the borders where an several hundred light years. atrocious cold reigns, the Temper-Ut Per-Beod is the door which leads from door, whose guardian is Uakl, leads to the dry universe to another that is liquid. Its guardian, Bemb, holds the key

77 • The Universe to the absolute source, the secret of mas- The Children of “(…) No, my dear col- tering water. It seems that one day Bemb, the Void leagues, in truth I tell you, the for one reason or another, made an central brain isn’t shooting dice… Accustomed to the endless agreement with the Ekonomat, which much worse! The central brain is discovery of creatures one unifies them in a pact. playing liar’s poker with the devil, more surprising than the Chonch, the door that opens up and has bet the entire universe on a next on the planets of worlds from a rough and rugged universe to a miserable two-of-a-kind poker still unknown, humans have smooth universe, is guarded by Ruante, hand.” also had to adapt to the veri- who possesses the ability to modify the —Excerpts from the speech given table inhabitants of space. geographical relief of worlds at will. before the Galactic Mentreks Univer- In the manner of an im- His power is held by an object, a little sities’ Conference, by the Mentrek measurable sea, it harbors an brush in orikarb. Girasol, originator of the Meta-Chaos unsuspected life and activity. Finally, Podrih-Do, the custodian Theory, in the Terra Prima standard At the furthest point of the able to act upon the tiniest molecular year of 27258. borders, where one can just level, mastering aroma chemistry, make out the contours of the watches over Puerko, the door through In spite of the nebulous aspects of stellar ice floe, some explor- which one leaves the foul-smelling bor- this mystery, one statment is clear: The ers observed whales, sharks der edges to emerge into a perfumed universe is a vast chaotic expanse where and cetaceans, who resemble universe. “complexity” takes on its full meaning the very one who gave the So there are the palpable and tan- in every sense of the word. And in this Shabda-Oud such an impres- gible aspects of the Human Universe bubbling magma hides the interworld, sive army of cetacyborgs. It and those bordering it. There is one an inaccessible dimension, beyond has also been documented more point to broach: The universes physical reality as known to humans, that the use of Tri-H bombs are cosmo-eaters and are perpetually and therefore beyond matter as we con- and ammunition opened up in competition with one another. Equi- ceive and perceive it. Although invis- breaches so deep into space librium among the universes is noth- ible, this patch of the universe is never- that creatures coming from ing but a state of instability, the bal- theless a fundamental component of its the interworld could at times ance of their expansionist forces. Cer- texture. “A thin, perfectly smooth-sur- manifest themselves, assail- tain of these realities will never be ac- faced leaf,” remark the Mentrek ing those responsible for cessible but for those extraordinary Girasol, “contains more surprises than these disruptions in the beings, who know how to go beyond any spirit of which even the most sav- void’s equilibrium. themselves, pushing their limits in or- age and untamed of paleo-poets could der to force their way to accessing these ever have conceived.” dimensions. But the reality of the uni- Now let’s get into the details. Mat- verse, ours and all the others, doesn’t ter is answered with anti-matter, and stop at the tangible. In fact, there exist alternative truths the cohesion of the heterogeneous universe depends upon from other more subtle and better hidden dimensions, or the balance between these two fundamental elements. An in a word, less perceptible. accident, a cataclysm, or the flapping of a butterfly’s wings can alter the alchemy’s harmony, opening a gap toward GAME NOTE the interworld, “the mythical past-beyond,” the essential If you are playing the Metabarons Roleplaying Game, fabric of the Human Universe. This dimension of chaos you can use the fringes of the Human Universe as excel- and beauty houses scenes of splendor and dread to which lent places to humble even the cockiest of mortals. no soul would know how to resist: the chaotic Amber Zone, from which perhaps came life, seeing that harmony THE INTERWORLD is born of disorder. Then beyond the labyrinthine pas- In order to give you a more precise idea of the universe’s sages, the original dimension, as so aptly put by Girasol: ethereal mysteries, here are the words of a specialist: “a dimension of pure beauty and eternal calm, where on their own, the living lights undulate, shiver, radiate, glis- “(…) Because the universe, my dear colleagues, isn’t ten, shine forth, phosphor, sparkle, and glitter, such are like a good old blueberry muffin fresh out of the oven, these jewels large as galaxies.” And further still, further where the clouds of gas and dust are the dough, and the than any distance ever traveled is the Omphal, “the first blueberries are masses scattered here and there — plan- and last spot, the secret navel where all is created, and all ets, galaxies, and black holes. (…) Whether it be pastry is consumed.” or shortbread, the dough will never resemble the wonder- What is learned from these revelations? In fact, the es- ful complexity of the universe’s texture, the magical co- sential idea is that somewhere there exists the ultimate existence of the sublime mysteries and physical energy point of matter’s existence. It is the mythical Omphal, the that permits a single, particle of dust to have a greater point of origin of the big bang. At the origin of the world force than the sum of the cores of all the suns combined. and all things, the totality of colossal quantities of infi- (…) nite and unimaginable energy, which goes through creating and shaping means of voyage in space. The first allow travel to phe- the universe, was contained in a miniscule point, nomenal distances, barely imaginable, between galaxies, a tiny black sphere, shiny like a pupil: the eye cre- sometimes thousands of light years away from one an- ator, the one who gives birth to all worlds. This point, other; and the second is the route taken by vessels within the first and the last, buried within the deepest fabric a system or galaxy of small dimension, or when vessels of the universe, from which one day appeared all that travel within zones which are not served by intersidereal exists, could also sound the end of all existence. tunnels. Perfectly mastered today, hyperspace no longer Actually, what would come to pass if the eye creator presents any danger, just a few inconveniences. For ex-

Chapter 6 • 78 came to close up again? If an ultrapowerful and heroic ample, the length of hyperspace voyages is wasted time madman came to brave one thousand dangers in order consecrated to nothing else but an artificially deep sleep. to pierce the iris of the first eye? This means of travel is therefore not recommended for Effectively, the question is asked, but rare are those long distances where one could easily see a standard year who have dared venture to the other side. Only two rep- pass by in vain. However, hyperspace can present an un- resentatives of the august line of Metawarriors, the Met- deniable interest to those persons who find themselves in abaron Aghnar and the Metabaron Steelhead, are known a delicate situation with the authorities, or pursued by a to have ever crossed this boundary. Because the interworld pack of pirate ships, because in theory, it is technically is protected. At its breast are nurtured creatures more impossible to follow the trace of a vessel immersed in hy- dreadful than famished ghouls, more monstrous than de- perspace. praved nosferastriges, more deadly than the most power- But there exists yet another way to travel, through an- ful of fish. In particular, strange vampires haunt this zone, other dimension of space. A secret and dangerous course, mind-eaters who scoff at the most resistant of white almost unknown and certainly fantastic, solely accessible Netranekkon reinforcements and who gorge on the to representatives of the Metabaron cast: the interspace. mouth-watering cephalic mass bedded in human skulls. Launched at full engine power, the Metacraft slices Thus, there is little risk that a mortal dare go defy the through anti-matter, the negative counterpart of matter, Omphal. But one never knows… and penetrates the interspace. In this mysterious zone, unknown to the rest of humans, the Metacraft can in a HYPERSPACE AND INTERSPACE few standard seconds traverse thousands of light years Mastering hyperspace had been the initial key to the and pass from the Trogosocialik system to the Techno- conquest of Terra Prima’s galaxy. Hyperspace is an un- Technos’ Central Planet. A trip that would take a normal stable state of the intersidereal void, in which all bodies vessel several weeks in hyperspace,only lasts a heart beat launched faster than the speed of light enter. It has al- for the Metacraft. In a single leap, an infinitesimal frac- ready been a long time, more than 27,000 years, since tion on the scale of the universe, almost as if gifted with humans mastered their traveling speed in space and left ubiquity, it can spring up at any point in space, scoffing to conquer this exquisitely mortal new at protection shields, supraradar, and electrospies. This frontier. The universe was finally unique ability imparts a formidable stretching out its arms to them. It is the power to the Metacraft, which com- discovery of the instant fusion-contrac- Organizing the pletely erases the hopes of impregnation-dilation of principle matter that of- Worlds bility to any so-called unassailable fered this immeasurable power, able to In a universe too vast for fortress. propel them into the supraluminous it to be possible for anyone To explain how the Metabaron dimension. But the mastery of this to claim having explored all proceeds into interspace, here is the power was a long, treacherous road its most infinite parts, habit- first of many secrets concerning the scattered with traps boundless dangers. able planets and worlds are Metacraft. The Metabaron’s fantastic At the time of the very first attempts, a organized into a hierarchy vessel is not only a magnificently slen- number of vessels, exiting a jump, ma- based on travel time, rather der and ultra powerfully armed instru- terialized within the interior of planets than according to their true ment of death. It is much more than or stars, exploding instantaneously. But importance. Worlds at the that. The craft is an integral part of time has gone by and now entire zones Exofringes have the particu- the Castaka’s soul, the feminine alter- of the universe, faraway galaxies and larity of being situated be- ego of Ganjez, the spirit of Marmola. constellations, have been mapped, and yond the Empire’s limits, just Just as at the moment of his death, today the hyperspace highways are like the border worlds, but the male bird, guardian of epiphyte, taken without risk. Furthermore, even the existence of some doors merged into the soul of the first Met- better quality soundings, elaborated in beyond the Imperial fron- abaron, the female bird, condemned the Techno-Technos’ secret laboratory- tiers equally create a notion to unbearable solitude, united with factories, allow the identification of exit of major and minor worlds the Metacraft. Thus this unique com- access point areas. of the Exofringe. bat vessel’s absolutely stupefying Along with the intersidereal tunnels, powers came in great part from this hyperspace is today one of the principle unification. What is interspace? In fact, it is de-

79 • The Universe void of matter, a state beyond matter Flotsam and At this galaxy’s periphery, or anti-matter, the ultimate form of Jetsam Collectors a small star — the sun — sends its heat and light to Terra Prima. nothingness, which is much like being The successive wars and In total, nine planets and their satel- behind the scenes of reality. Time and expeditions in space have not lites, some thousands of asteroids space are obliterated, and nothing can only contributed to the dis- and several hundreds of comets form exist. That is, nothing except one’s con- covery of new horizons, but Terra Prima’s solar system, which is scious, which is the only medium ca- also have generated some just one of numerous systems com- pable of maintaining a being’s cohe- surprising activities. Just as posed around a good part of the 200 sion. Vested with an immeasurable the seas have their pirates, in billion stars in the Milky Way Galaxy. strength drawn from the deepest of space there exist wreckage Further out, the universe houses primal sexual energies, combined with collectors. Not just satisfied other galaxies by the billions, a the seventh fundamental force — the with plundering the car- myriad of stars and planets in unimag- cosmo-carnal interaction — the Meta- casses of drifting vessels, they inable quantities. The galaxies are so baron and the Metacraft are capable voluntarily provoke damages numerous that they organize them- of crystallizing the essence of their con- and breakdowns, before selves in clusters. And then in clusters sciousness. At the entrance to inter- melting down the cabin in of clusters. And then in super-clusters. space, their material reality dissolves, order to seize the material Set in equilibrium in the void, their ar- but its memory is preserved in a nucleus and spare parts. For those rangement reminds one of cellulose of superior strength. The given exer- who get near them, they give molecules found in plant tissue. On oc- tion is colossal, and only their super- off a smell that evokes rusted casion, the clusters even regroup into human willpower allows them to sus- metal. Considered as the hyperclusters, whose weight is such tain it. An infinite fraction of standard worst riddle of the universe, that they attract entire galaxies. Whirl- time later, which represents an eternity the pirates have counted in winds form, and the universe becomes in Gehenna to them, their materializa- their ranks the illustrious agitated, shaking about. Head-on col- tion is restored at the targeted point of Othon, who debuted his ca- lisions take place creating “cosmic tsu- arrival. reer with them before being namis,” which spread in the universe That’s how the Metabaron frees him- snatched up into the whirl- at the speed of 320,000 kilometers per self from the constraints of time and wind of his destiny with the hour and give birth to billions of stars. space, and fulfills the quasi-divine Castakas. dream of ubiquity. It is in this perpetually agitated stellar confusion that the Human Empire, TUNNELS AND WORLDS originally set off from Terra Prima, Since the invention of the Techno-Tunnels, worlds are pursues its expansion. Today, the cen- differentiated based on their location:the “major” worlds sus of the universe shows 22,000 major worlds, of which — situated at less than five hours by hyper-spatial jump almost half are Endocities — the famous planets from a Tunnel door; the “minor” worlds — accessible in terraformed with care by the Magnarmada Techno-Ama- less than five days after a jump; and the “faraway” worlds zona vessels. Concretely, all these major worlds are just — situated at more than five days from a hyperspatial as well-isolated planets as complete systems or even gal- exit point. axies. Everything depends upon the particular configuration of the concerned spatial zone. In any case, these worlds THE HUMAN AND ALIEN GALAXIES are exceptionally distant from one another, are profoundly different from each other (with the exception of the The universe is certainly finite, but as far as they’ve Endocities, which instead have the tendency to resemble traveled, humans still haven’t seen it all. The Milky Way one another), and are governed by laws, customs, habits, alone, Terra Prima’s galaxy, is an enormous disc of stars and extremely varied authorities, even if they have all been 100,000 light years in diameter and 3,000 light years in inspired, specified, or nominated by the Empire. depth, containing some 200 billion stars floating in inter- The next chapter covers a sampling of planets and stellar matter made up of dust and plasma. Its central bulb, worlds over which the Emperoress, Janus-Jana, extends 18 million light years in diameter, is completed by four His-Her authority. Some will already be familiar, but oth- spiral arms. This sidereal space harbors no more than two ers will surely seem much more exotic. black holes. W O R L D S

Besides the few quickly presented planets in this chap- Population: 65 million inhabitants ter, the universe contains billions of other worlds, in Proximity to a Techno-Tunnel: 15dt astronomical quantities, quasi-infinite numbers of ce- Spaceport: Stellar class lestial bodies, stars, and mysteries. Freed from the stel- Technology: Space lar ice floes, ice asteroids roam thus in the sidereal void, Terrain: Barren stretches, mountains, a fertile valley wherever the stellar winds take them. Furthermore, Type: Terrestrial human races in myriads, mutants, and extraterrestrials Galaxy: Milky Way, Terra Prima’s galaxy who populate the universe never stopped fashioning Constellation: Piedra their world and constructing new ones. There is also Dreer, Star System: Philidor, situated at the periphery of one Summit, Aquaend, Alix III Badmech, Barnab Laylin, Del of the galaxy’s spiral arms. Rey III, and still many other worlds, not to mention the Physical Characteristics: Third planet in the Philidor orbiting stations. In this way, terraformed planets came system, with a diameter of 158,000 kilometers, Marmola into being everywhere humans went, and strings of artifi- completes a single revolution on its axis in slightly under cial satellites have been scattered. 22 standard hours, and completes its orbit in 412 stan- But the Universe also conceals incomprehensible traps dard days. Its rotation axis lies off center at 15°23' with that are still beyond comprehension. This explains the respect to an ecliptic plane, which allows the phenom- “No Return Pass,” a bottleneck alley where inevitably enon of seasons to be known. Marmola’s sole fertile val- lost crafts founder. These narrows would be, it is said, the ley is located in the temperate zone. There are cold and mythic hideout of the “arachno-bats,” improbable crea- hot seasons, separated by two short intermediary peri- tures the size of a very small planet or a large asteroid. ods. Considering the particular properties of its core, its These creatures apparently live in the sidereal void, and gravity represents 0.9568 times that of Terra Prima’s, de- survive thanks to the photonic radiation harnessed by their spite the difference in mass. Its relatively even land sur- gigantic wings, comparable to stellar sails. To make things face is traversed by two vast, north-south oriented moun- a bit more appetizing, they spin webs between their mother tain chains, reaching 15,000 meters at its highest point. planet and its five satellites, where imprudent ships and Rich in oxygen, its atmosphere shows traces of nitrogen, vessels come and get trapped. carbon dioxide, and other various gases. And that is the setting of this universe Hyperspatial Approach Vector Co- — a magnificet backdrop, where even ordinates: 55xyz33 the glacial cold of the infinite void con- Satellites: Marmola does not have ceals a certain poetry. The proud marble any satellites. ball — whose variegated re- Flora and Fauna: Excepting a OVERVIEW NOTE flections softly colored the miniscule valley bathed by a slender In the “Proximity to a Techno-Tun- entirety of the Philidor sys- stream, the surface of Marmola is com- nel” section of each planet’s overview tem — is now nothing more pletely arid. A meager vegetation chart, the value indicates time expressed than a scraggy stump grows in the valley where some rare in days (d) or hours (h) necessary to gnawed to the bone. animal species also live. History tells reach an interstellar (t) or an interga- Marmola’s splendid light no us that formerly a great bird lived lactic (T) Techno-Tunnel. longer shines under its orbit- there, spreading its enormous wings to ing space stations. It’s only hover above for great lengths of time. MARMOLA fertile valley has long since Marmola is a gigantic globe of Aliens: None been filled in with stones and marble. Despite the presence of an at- Atmosphere: Type I (breathable) other rocky ejections. mosphere, life is extremely difficult on Category: Distant World The Imperial technicians its arid surface. There is only one Climate: Temperate have been forced to live in miniscule fertile valley in which all of Day Length: 22 standard hours space — a consequence of the rare human inhabitants were Year Length: 412 local days the meticulous carving up of settled. Government: Imperial governor the planet. As the epiphyte Marmola draws it sustenance from Gravity: Standard was pumped out, Marmola its earth, which is extracted in order Hydrosphere: Dry shriveled up, completely as- to pave the Empire’s palace floors and Major Exports: Ephiphyte and pirated from the inside. walls. mined products (marble) Overexploitation was the The heart of the stone sphere harbors Major Imports: Technological cause of a slow, agonizing a treasure — epyphite, the sacred blood Equipment death to this otherwise leg- of the marble planet which became the Planet’s Function: Vast industrial endary world…. greatest treasure of the Empire and was and research center the object of a bitter battle. Today, Marmola is covered in Impe- Satellites: Golden Planet 81 • Worlds rial extraction installations, designed to “Emergency! The re- has ten satellites, one natural remove marble and the precious (and bellion is spreading! Repeat: and nine artificial, on which de- rapidly depleting) epyphite. Rebellion is spreading. Riot- fense systems are installed Population: From time immemorial, ing has taken over three ad- (polyradars, quantum sensors, pho- the Cataska clan lived on this planet to ditional cities. All communi- tonic shields). Their position in which they were bound by the power- cations with the Techno- space assures perfect coverage of ful yet subtle link of a magic essence. Technos’ tropical systems Golden Planet’s entire surface. The The head of the clan’s soul has been servo-relay have been inter- small natural satellite has been re- inhabited by the keeper’s spirit, Ganjez, rupted — but a live direct developed into a vacation and recre- since the days of Dayal von Castaka, transmission to the hypertele ational resort, where grand celebra- the founder of the glorious line. transmitters has been local- tions and other social events are or- ized… transmitting out to GOLDEN PLANET ganized. It now provides a habitat for 22,000 major worlds of the synthetic flora and fauna, colored uni- Aliens: None Empire!” — Imperial com- formly in the crimson-purple palette, Atmosphere: Type I (breathable) munication, code alert from vivid magenta to deep eggplant pure oxygen blue. Category: Major World Flora and Fauna: Only two types of Climate: Temperate animal and plant life were encountered Day Length: 25 standard hours on the first human expedition to Golden Planet and solely Year Length: 213 local days in the equatorial zone: enormous trees with wide palm Government: Emperoress and the Imperial government leaves, veined in gold, and jumping insects equipped with Gravity: Standard extremely powerful hind feet capable of making tremen- Hydrosphere: Dry dous leaps (10,780 times their height). At death, these Major Exports: Galactic bureaucracy plants and animals do not undergo the biodegradation Major Imports: Luxury products, foodstuffs, high-tech- process, as do most types of bacteria. Instead, they dry up nology products to the point of becoming a pure gold skeletal residue, Planet’s Function: Capital of the Human Empire which then integrates itself into the ground. Population: 5 million inhabitants Since the Empire’s settling into this world, Amorine is Proximity to a Techno-Tunnel: 1ht found in the gardens and balconies of the highest leaders’ Spaceport: Ist Class and first in the Imperial Class residences. The Amourine flower, which feeds on the Technology: Space planet’s gold, grows in abundance. But nobody takes care Terrain: Pure Gold of the Amourine, because the flower is taboo, and no hand Type: Terrestrial subject to Imperial will would commit the sacrilege of Galaxy: Milky Way, Terra Prima’s galaxy touching it, even with a gentle caress. Consequently, the Constellation: Alba Amourine flowers, needlessly in bloom on the balconies Star System: Oro of the Empire’s nobility, become sad, and at nightfall, a Physical Characteristics: The Golden Planet is the most muted lament rustles throughout the streets and alleys of voluminous of the three planets (Beacon Planet and For- Golden Planet. bidden Planet are the two others) that make up the tiny Population: Originally, Golden Planet had no endog- Oro system. Originally the planet was octagonal, but it enous population of any human type. Today this planet is was remodeled by the Empire. At a distance of 153.7 mil- the political, military, and religious seat of the Empire, lion kilometers from its sun, the star Alba, it follows a and its population reaches five billion individuals. The very eccentric orbit, in 213 standard days, strongly tilted demographics are stable, births compensating deaths, and at 10° on the ecliptic plane. Despite physical conditions immigration is under excessive control. Besides the Impe- that are in theory favorable to life (presence of a thin at- rial Court, the Golden Planet equally welcomes official mospheric layer), there existed practically no animal or representatives from parallel universes, and it is in the vege-table life at humanity’s arrival on Golden Planet, offices of the Confederation of Parallel Universes that the without a doubt due to the considerable differences in polyuniversal teleconferences are televised. temperature at its surface. Its diameter (47,230 kilome- Additional Information: After the discovery of Golden ters) and its gravity are comparable to Terra Prima’s. An Planet and its riches, a short period of trouble abounded equatorial plane, 300 kilometers wide, enjoys the privi- in this area of the cosmos, until the Empire decided to lege of an optimal exposition to the solar rays. Its natural settle here and make the planet its headquarters. The en- relief is barely pronounced. A comparatively dense water tire surface had been leveled, with the exception of hill- network is concentrated in the equatorial zone. The ocks and mounds situated at the highest point of the equa- planet’s metallic core is a colossal mass of pure gold. Rich torial plane (situated precisely on the equator) where the veins of gold rise up to the surface directly from the heart Imperial Palace was built. At ground level, an uninter- of the planet. rupted succession of golden cities cover the entirety of Hyperspatial Approach Vector Coordinates: 23oro78 the planet’s surface. An artificial atmosphere of pure oxy- ing more than a souvenir in the memory of only the best- gen has been created. Exterior life is possible informed Mentreks. After the flora and fauna’s wild spe- in the equatorial zone. In other regions, life is cies became extinct, human life itself became impossible underground. on this planet. Today, Terra Prima is nothing but a field of poisoned ruins, bathed in a radioactive atmosphere. TERRA PRIMA Population: Formerly inhabited by more than 120 bil- Aliens: None lion human individuals, Terra Prima no longer counts a Atmosphere: Type II (breather unit recommended) single habitant. Additional Information: Once the seat of the Empire Chapter 7 • 82 Category: Major World Climate: Temperate and the human galaxy’s central planet, Terra Prima suf- Day Length: 24 standard hours fered a slow and painful death after the departure of the Year Length: 365 local days (standard) Imperial authorities for Golden Planet. The populations Government: N/A left behind headed an arsenal of massive destruction, and Gravity: Standard lacking any unifying power, rival factions confronted each Hydrosphere: Humid other for control of the vacant Imperial throne. Major Exports: None There was a time when the fear of seeing fission’s all- Major Imports: None consuming fire explode into a rage that would have inevi- Planet’s Function: None tably wiped Terra Prima along with the entire galaxy off Population: Postapocolyptic mutants (uncounted) the maps of the cosmos could rein in humanity’s destruc- Proximity to a Techno-Tunnel: 5ht tive madness. But fear was also the excuse they were wait- Spaceport: None ing for to elaborate even more destructive weapons. There Technology: None was an escalation of biological and chemical warfare, Terrain: Plains, mountains, glacial zones, oceans answered with their neutronic, protonic, and photonic Type: Terrestrial counterparts. And so it was at this time that the machines Galaxy: Milky Way, Terra Prima’s galaxy launched their sacred war against humans and all bio- Constellation: Alpha Centauri logical elements. The tiniest sign of life, even the most Star System: Sol, extending around the sun as far as the subterranean, buried away and best protected, had been Oort Cloud. annihilated. The human race then left its nourishing Physical Characteristics: Third planet from the sun, situ- mother planet without a glance, scattering out into the ated at a distance varying between 147.1 and 152.1 mil- entire cosmos. Today, on the desolate landscape of proud lion kilometers from the sun (due to its eccentric orbit), constructions once built to reach the high heavens, blows Terra Prima completes its orbit in 365 an acid wind deprived of the tiniest days, 6 hours, 9 minutes, and 9.5 sec- song or even the slightest sound. onds. It rotates on its axis in 23 hours, Of the countless bil- OKHAR AND THE ANASIRMA 56 minutes and 4.1 seconds. On Janu- lions of the Blue Planet’s in- ary, 2000, of Terra Prima’s human habitants, a destructive ASTEROID paleo-calender, the axis was inclined on frenzy chased away the great Aliens: None the terrestrial orbit at an angle of 23°26' majority and decimated the Atmosphere: Type I (breathable) and 21.4". Endowed with an atmo- rest. Only a few zombie-mu- Category: Minor World sphere rich in oxygen and hydrogen, tants remain today, wander- Climate: Temperate and expanses of water on over two ing in the debris, feeding on Day Length: undetermined thirds of its surface, this sphere of organic moss and drinking Year Length: undetermined 40,000 kilometers in diameter is the from the acid pools. For Government: None cradle of human life. All of the human these ectoplasms of concen- Gravity: Standard races which populate the universe to trated hate, all that remains Hydrosphere: Humid this day are prior offspring of Terra of their distant humanity is Major Exports: None Prima’s original human race. the desire for revenge, a Major Imports: None Hyperspatial Approach Vector Co- deeply anchored feeling that Planet’s Function: Metabaron’s se- ordinates: 12zbd49 pushes them to spontane- cret hideout Satellites: Originally, Terra Prima had ously detest all others but Population: The Metabaron one satellite, the moon, which is com- themselves. Adventurous Proximity to a Techno-Tunnel: 3dt pletely destoryed today. voyagers must never forget Spaceport: None Flora and Fauna: At life’s beginnings, the risk they run in visiting Technology: Meta-technology Terra Prima provided a habitat for ex- this planet, notably that of Terrain: Mountains traordinarily luxurious flora and fauna, falling prey to these canni- Type: Terrestrial to this day unparalleled on any blue balistic creatures who would Galaxy: Milky Way, Terra Prima’s planet visited in the universe. With the adore having the chance to galaxy development of the human race, the devour their hearts…. Constellation: Diamond biological diversity of Terra Prima de- Star System: Ankharo generated to the sad state of being noth- Physical Characteristics: Ankharo is a small star comparatively far out in to the Empire. It is here that 83 • Worlds Since the time of the galaxy. The Ankharo system is com- Othon made Honorata’s ac- Okhar’s destruction, the posed of four planets, of which three quaintance and that Aghnar was Anasirma Asteroid hides the are barren. In contrast, Okhar is an ex- born. And life could have gone by Castaka’s impregnable for- ceptionally fertile world, a veritable ha- peacefully, but Okhar was bound tress. In the heart of this ven of extraordinary conditions. to know a destiny as tragic as that sanctuary, guarded by an Smaller than Terra Prima (32,750 ki- of the glorious line of Metawarriors. army of ferocious eodactyles, lometers in diameter), Okhar has an at- Victim of the Shabda-Oud’s impla- the wonders of the ancient mosphere rich in oxygen and other cable tracking, Okhar was devas- maxiprotonic tower sleep an gases (notably dioxygen, ozone and tated by the explosion of micro-H eternal sleep sur-rounded by carbon dioxide). Moderately inclined bombs implanted in Honorata’s chest the Metabaron’s weapons on its ecliptic axis, it has faintly defined by her Shabda-Oud superiors. Every- and souvenirs. Much like seasons. However, the climate varies de- thing was destroyed. The pacific Tonto in the Metabunker, a pending upon latitude. A wide equato- Okharian tribes were erased from procession of robots assures rial plane registers a hot and humid cli- humanity’s memory, and the flora and the fortress’s upkeep and mate. Vast temperate zones with a fauna were engulfed in the explosion. maintenance, accompanied pleasant paleo-Mediterranean-style cli- However, the secret Castaka retreat, only by the hissing silence of mate extend northward and southward buried deep in the heart of the their well-oiled cogwheels. from this area. Two immense continen- Anasirma mountain chain, was con- The whereabouts of this ul- tal plateaus, separated by two oceans, served within the core of an asteroid timate refuge are solely cover the whole of the sphere. The geo- propelled intact into space during the known to the Metabaron, graphical relief is varied: Plentifully ir- explosion. accessible to him alone, and rigated plains give way to wooded mas- it is here that he finds refuge sifs. The north, which is the more vast HOSPITAL PLANET from the universe’s din, freely of the continents is blocked off by the giving himself over to mel- Aliens: None Anasirma, an imposing chain of sacred ancholy…. Atmosphere: Type I (breathable) mountains. Okhar completes its orbit Category: Major World in 425 days. It rotates on its axis in 27 Climate: Glacial hours, 12 minutes. Day Length: 48 standard hours Hyperspatial Approach Vector Co- Year Length: 480 local days ordinates: 27hok78 Government: Techno-Pope Satellites: Okhar has two natural moons, Orkho and Gravity: Standard Rahna, diametrically opposed and vertically situated at Hydrosphere: Humid the planet’s two poles. Major Exports: Organs, biological tissue, health and Flora and Fauna: The extremely favorable and varied medical information conditions of the planet have allowed for the appearance Major Imports: The sick, dying, bacteria, germs, and of flora and fauna that is as rich as it is exuberant. Top- tourists ping the long list of luxurious plants are the carnivores Planet’s Function: The Empire’s hospital base with their intoxicating perfume, the huge ferns of the Population: 6.5 billion Anasima foothills, the namioc (whose edible root forms Proximity to a Techno-Tunnel: 2ht the base of the Okharian people’s diet), and the giant Spaceport: Ist class smooth-trunked soquaia (whose tops extend upwards for Technology: Space hundreds of meters). The animal kingdom isn’t idle: a fan- Terrain: Plateaux, mountains, plains tastic life bustles about in the swamps and marshes, such Type: Terresterial as the delicious, fragrantly fleshed zapopos with their Galaxy: Milky Way, Terra Prima’s Galaxy poisonous skin, or the blue-shelled crabawfish. On land, Constellation: Central the venomous scolopedes slither, and the gigantic-eared Star System: Shaar konojos gallop alongside the jumping guanacuñas. In the Physical Characteristics: A gigantic planet from the Shaar air, fly winged cats and carnivorous eodactyles — fear- system that counts seven in all, Hospital Planet is an im- some winged creatures with formidable jaws. maculate white sphere entirely reworked by humans. Two Population: Peaceful human tribes, who call themselves soft-water oceans are fixed at the poles. They meet the needs the Canus, people the fertile valleys. Their gentle tem- of this colossal healthcare establishment. The median strip perament is in perfect harmony with the clement life on is an immense, sprawling construction that culminates at a Okhar. By tradition and inclination, they profess a confi- high point averaging 4,700 meters. Perfectly centered on its dent submission to the immanent providence, and are apt ecliptic, Hospital Planet doesn’t experience the phenomenon to faithfully serve the master of Okhar. of seasons. The scrawny rays of its sun only produce a pale Additional Information: The Empire offered planet light. Hospital Planet completes its orbit in 480 days and Okhar, a new and protected world, to Othon von Castaka, rotates on its axis in 48 hours. The surface temperature is the first Metabaron, to thank him for services rendered always negative, varying between –6° and –278°C, which Tonto, a prototype marked for destruction because he provides perfect conditions for conserving organs showed some disturbing signs of completely unpredictable and chemicals without cluttering the installations. robotic mutations. Endowed with phenomenal super-intel- Hospital Planet’s atmosphere is rich in oxygen, but ligence and a quasiconscious, Tonto immediately took a lik- one also finds a number of other gases and compounds ing to this weeping warrior who was reducing half of the in gas form (alcohol, either, chloroform, etc.). Even traces building to ashes, and showed him how to escape without of alkaloid gas residue have been detected. danger. Since this time, Tonto has been in service to the Hyperspatial Approach Vector Coordinates: Metabarons. 17sos18

Chapter 7 • 84 Satellites: Two satellites revolve around Hospital PERDITA Planet: Arton and Nituh. Aliens: Magons Flora and Fauna: There is no endemic natural vegeta- Atmosphere: Type IV (exoskeleten required) tion, nor any trace of animal life. Today, gigantic hydro- Category: Exofringe World ponic greenhouses permit a local production of plants and Climate: Tropical flowers. In the same way, there are immense subterranean Day Length: 134 standard hours and surface installations including a cancerous cell zoo, a Year Length: 42 local days park where all the viral strains ever encountered in space Government: Tribal frolic about in liberty, a giant Kock’s bacillus, dancing Gravity: Supraheavy bacteria, polychromatic mutant cysts, and a thousand Hydrosphere: Saturated other wonders that are well worth the visit. Major Exports: None Population: No indigenous population lives on Hospi- Major Imports: None tal Planet. Today several billion people, for the most part Planet’s Function: None dressed in white, live on the planet. Population: Tens of thousands of specimens Additional Information: Hospital Planet is the human Proximity to a Techno-Tunnel: 24dt galaxy’s healthcare institution. Its centrally located posi- Spaceport: None tion allows for the treatment of numerous clientele. Apart Technology: Stone from the services of multispecialized surgery, general Terrain: Plains, mushrooms healthcare, rehabilitation and treatment research centers, Type: Terrestrial prosthesis centers, morgues, hotel networks, and annexes Galaxy: Milky Way, Terra Prima’s Galaxy allotted to supplies and management, Hospital Planet Constellation: Canis Minor equally accommodates several research centers. It is the Star System: Inferior Hospital Planet team of researchers who in thirty years, Physical Characteristics: Planet Perdita is a sphere of ten days, five hours, eight seconds, seven tenths, and modest dimensions (a diameter of 23,500 kilometers) twelve hundredths successfully inseminated an egg from which rotates on its axis in a bit more than 134 standard the Empress with a sterile sperm from the Emperor to hours and completes its orbit in 42 standard days. Taking create Janus-Jana, he and she twins who would later be- into consideration its off-centered axis compared to its come the master/mistress of the galaxy, its “Major ecliptic plane (13.7°), it experiences a barely defined phe- Ophidity,” the Emperoress of all things. nomenon of seasons, which however follow one another The omni-practitioners training is completely under the very rapidly. Perdita is endowed with an enormous me- authority of the Techno-Technos. The surgeons cast consti- tallic core (Magonium48, an extremely heavy metal with- tutes a veritable sect, particularly fierce, out any particular properties or in- who believe as their motto affirms: “bet- dustrial applicability, which permit- ter to cut than heal.” In practice, all of In the underground ted Perdita to be saved from the the surgeons are laden with machines that levels of Hospital Planet, the Ekonomat’s tradesmen’s greed). The are systematically implanted during their nursing staff, bios and robots ground gravity is absolutely phenom- training period. At the same time, a huge alike, regularly renew the enal (more than 1,000 times that of production unit manufactures hordes of time-honored tradition of Terra Prima). The atmosphere is an robo-surgeons, including one who has Terra Prima’s paleo-medical unstable mixture of oxygen, hydro- known an extraordinary destiny. This is students. In an infernal bac- gen, and heavy gases, which crystal- Tonto, the Metabaron’s faithful robot, chanal feast, they revive the lize to form a misty gangue encircling who was actually issued from Hospital “Burial Celebration.” Dur- a small ball of granite and mud. On Planet’s production lines. The meeting ing these unbridled orgies, the ground, water is omnipresent and between Tonto and the first Metabaron they take out and dress the the temperature is relatively elevated. happened when Othon came to have the cada-vers, tease the dying Hyperspatial Approach Vector legs of his son Bari treated after the battle patients, and get carried Coordinates: 48fin18 of Marmola. Refusing to submit to the away with pranks in-spired Satellites: Perdita has one asteroid humiliation of being forced to wait, by the hyperpowerful drugs satellite, Hongo. Othon, half crazed by grief and the af- they have consumed. Flora and Fauna: With both favor- front to his pride, grabbed hold of a robo- able physical and climatic conditions surgeon set on a cart. The robot was (presence of water, positive temperatures and oxygen), an animal and plant Population: Undeter- 85 • Worlds life has naturally developed on this It’s not a good idea to mined world. Thus, on Perdita’s surface, gi- hang out near the outskirts Proximity to a Techno-Tunnel: gantic mushrooms grow 50 meters high of Perdita. Its tremendous 16dt in a compost extraordinarily favorable gravity creates a turbulent Spaceport: None to the proliferation of mycotic spores. field that is felt for light years Technology: Stone At the top of these fungoid structures around. Voyageurs caught in Terrain: Ice floe live the Magon tribe, large mycopha- this gravitational vortex have Type: Asteroid gous monkeys, insensible to gravity, practically no chance of es- Galaxy: Icy who float in the air and feed on bark caping a tragic end, stuck on Constellation: Glacial confines torn from the mushroom trunks. On this hostile planet for eter- Star System: Hielo the ground, masses of flat and carnivo- nity. Nevertheless, there is a Physical Characteristics: Hielo is a rous creatures crushed by the gravity persistent rumor that evokes neutron star resulting from the explo- mill about, feeding on the fallen great the case of a wise explorer sion of a supernova. This miniscule as- monkeys. It so happens that due to a who apparently was able to ter (with a radius of barely ten kilo- whimsical and uncertain logic, the fly- successfully overcome the meters) presents an average density on ing monkeys suddenly regain their planet’s implacable attrac- the order of 1,000 million tons per cu- weight and go crashing to the ground. tion in utilizing a substance bic centimeter, which has the effect of This happens regularly at the change contained in the Magons’ la- making the area extremely unstable. of each season, the day the Red Light ryngeal glands. And as if The enormous force of gravity is felt returns, during which the Magons that weren’t enough, he also from light years away in every direc- grow fangs and confront each other in discovered a Magonium48 tion, and the system’s cohesion is con- bloody battles to win the title of Patri- oxide containing astounding stantly at risk of being upset. This sys- arch. As well as being extremely pro- properties… lific, the Magon monkeys have a lon- tem counts four planets. The first is a gevity of 30,000 standard years. Fur- giant planet (one million kilometers in thermore, it should be noted that the diameter) that maintains its equili- Magons are great salt eaters, which explains their abso- brium due to its phenomenal mass. lute fascination with Planet Diamond. In fact, Planet Dia- Consequently, it forms a screen that deviates the intense mond is a fragment snatched from the stellar ice floe, which photonic radiance of Hielo and projects a vast cone of itself is an agglomeration of salt, and the first Magon cer- shadow over the rest of the system. The next three plan- tainly originated from the stellar ice floe. ets are therefore plunged into an absolute stellar darkness Population: There is no human population on Perdita. where glacial temperatures reign at well below absolute Additional Information: Turned into a refuge for the zero. The stellar ice floe extends for a distance of close to Castakas after the destruction of Okhar, Perdita is the two light years over three planets. It was formed by the world where the Metabaron Othon died, killed in the agglomerations of salty debris and brackish and watery Metabaron tradition by his son Aghnar. Left alone at only products coming from the explosion of a vast system of eight years old, Aghnar grew up in this unfriendly world. aquatic planets. No atmosphere encircles the ice floe, but Ten years later, he left Perdita after having become the the stellar winds, which frequently fly into a rage there, Master of the Magons, who vowed to him their bound- are loaded with oxygen and hydrogen. Moreover, powerless fidelity. He then sacrificed them in order to satisfy his ful photonic currents circle the immediate edges around desire for vengeance against the Shabda-Oud order. To- the cone of shadow. day, the Magons no longer fall from the sky to be de- The stellar ice floe is not a completely quiet zone and it is voured by the flat creatures, and Perdita has returned to not as barren as one may think. For example, it served as a its foggy solitude. refuge for creatures of the extreme confines — the Jejohs, who escaped the tyranny of the pachydermic jellyfish. After STELLAR ICE FLOE diverse phases of mutation in order to adapt to the particular conditions of the ice floe, the Jejohs ended up liking it Aliens: Jejohs and other creatures of the glacial there, all the more so because they discovered the virtues of borders Piram — a cactus plant that grows on the ice floe and whose Atmosphere: Type IV (exoskeleton required) sap increases mental power tenfold. But the awakening of Category: World of the Confines one’s consciousness doesn’t happen without producing un- Climate: Glacial expected side effects. When united, the Jejohs entered into a Day Length: Undetermined phase of violent conflict. It is at this period that the Techno Year Length: Undetermined Popess, herself in open war with the Techno-Pope, set out Government: None to establish her own order and discovered the stellar ice Gravity: Heavy floe. Until then, the rare vessels that came to the out-skirts Hydrosphere: Saturated had undergone massive structural cor-rosion, and rarer still, Major Exports: None those few explorers, who had tread upon the ice floe’s Major Imports: None ground, had had their eyeballs irremediably dam-aged by Planet’s Function: None Spaceport: Standard Class the salt. But the cetacyborgs Technology: Computer “In my austere palace, laugh at the corrosion (in fact, Terrain: Tropical forests, mountain I ruminate in silence, they are mad about salty biologi- chains, plains and one day my sisters will cal debris), and the Shabda-Oud Type: Terrestrial assuage my desire for ven- have a mental carapace that protects Galaxy: Milky Way, Terra Prima’s geance.” them against all forms of ag- galaxy Cloistered on the ice aster- gression. In this way, the Shabda- Constellation: Goathi oid where the only thing more Oud priestess, during her exploration Star System: Septenarian, neighbor- Chapter 7 • 86 glacial than the cold is the of the planet, rescued an injured Jejoh. ing the Beta-Kuntri blue-solar system numbness reigning in her Won over by its powerful male lust, Physical Characteristics: Set in the heart, Argatha — first and last she decided to make him the order’s septenarian system, Baggdathi-the- Shabda-Oud priestess — official inseminator. Pearl is the largest of seven planets meditates and waits. Hyperspatial Approach Vector Co- contained in the system. Underground, ordinates: 27hdo12 it contains incredible quantities of Satellites: No actual satellites have Kankrum25, a radioactive element in- been recorded, but vast frozen star clus- dispensable to the Hospital Planet ters sometimes break away from the ice floe. The asteroid- laboratories for the development of certain anti-metastatic icebergs drift wherever they are taken by the stellar winds. products. A vast globe of 54,000 kilometers in diameter, Flora and Fauna: No living flora exists in this zone, but Baggdathi-the-Pearl is a blue planet with characteristics quantities of plant debris are trapped in the ice. Krill beds comparable to that of Terra Prima. It is divided into seven and stellar micro-plankton, made up of small salted vam- continents by six oceans. Its atmosphere is rich in oxy- pires, which the cetacyborgs delight in, can also some- gen, hydrogen, and ozone. With an inclination on the eclip- times be found fro-zen within these glacial monstrosities. tic plane of 8.74°, it has in its temperate zones four dis- Enor-mous cetacreatures come to roam this zone, espe- tinct seasons. In the equatorial zones, there are only two cially during their reproductive period, and some naviga- seasons: a dry season and a rainy season. Baggdathi-the- tor-explorer accounts report the sighting of titanic yet slen- Pearl completes its orbit in 225 days and makes a single der creatures, similar to stellar skate fish, playing on the revolution on its axis in a bit more than 19 hours. outskirts of the floe. Hyperspatial Approach Vector Coordinates: 85oda43 Population: No living population inhabits the stellar Satellites: A chain of 17 satellites form a necklace around ice floe. However, the icebergs contain a myriad of vari- Baggdathi-the-Pearl. ous beings originating from worlds that Flora and Fauna: Benefiting from were snatched up and frozen. In par- conditions favorable to the propaga- ticular, there is a Jejoh colony, fellow After a long period of tion of animal and plant life, creatures of the one who became the upheavals, life more or less Baggdathi-the-Pearl is gifted with rich Shabda-Oud order’s god. The nun-sluts returned to its normal course and diverse flora and fauna. Numer- built a temple on the stellar ice, even on Baggdathi. Of the numerous species remind one of those found more dazzling than the one on Planet ous attempts at normaliza- on Terra Prima, but the endemic life Diamond. But only the most deserving tion that were undertaken by has proved itself to have an unbridled knew of its existence and had the honor the authorities, the reactiva- imagination. of going to visit it. This first temple is tion of joint cooperation ac- Population: Due to remote offspring today in ruins. tivities with Hospital Planet of Terra Prima’s fathers who came to conquer the universe, the population BAGGDATHI-THE-PEARL merits mention. To facilitate transporta- of Baggdathi-the-Pearl is essentially hu- Aliens: None tion between the two plan- man. As a commercial crossroads, Atmosphere: Type I (breathable) ets, a direct gateway was in- however, this world welcomes repre- Category: Major World stalled between them. But sentatives of numerous extra terrestrial Climate: Temperate the flow of traffic is reversed races as well. Day Length: 19 standard hours this time: it is no longer the Additional Information: A not so Year Length: 225 local days sick children from Hospital very long time ago, Baggdathi-the- Government: Anarcho-monarchical Planet that come to visit Pearl was an incredible garden, a fan- Gravity: Standard Baggdathi’s amusement tastic park full of attractions. There Hydrosphere: Moderate parks, but the destitute from was nothing but toys and robots ga- Major Exports: Luxury products, the latter, affected with the lore, a carousel of multicolored trin- some raw materials (Kankrum25) most diverse and horrible kets and fireworks. The father of Oda Major Imports: Eclectics diseases, that are used as a the Capricious, sovereign of this world, Planet’s Function: Capital of the source to populate the medi- reigned from his palace in the royal city Septenarian system, trafficking cal-zoo on the former. of Amahdis, over a colossal fortune Population: 1.6 billion that was cheerfully consecrated to re- Proximity to a Techno-Tunnel: 3ht alizing his infantile fantasies. Further- more, the capital of Amahdis was in joint cooperation with Hospital Planet, and many terminally ill children and a quarter water. At the crossing of these 87 • Worlds came to spend their last days here. two antagonistic worlds, on a wide median strip, Oda’s mother was a six-armed robot, endowed with extends an unstable region of swamps and quick- unreal grace and a divine gift for dance. A Hospital Planet sand. On the dark side of the planet, the watery quar- surgeon carried off the feat of allowing her to imitate a ter is essentially composed of an immense ice floe bio-type destiny, by endowing her with the ability to give stowed down to the pole, which covers three quarters life, and she was impregnated by the implantation of an of this semi-crescent plunged into an eternally freezing ovary from a magnificent-looking sick woman. Oda’s fa- night. The arid quarter is a vast bare zone of frozen ther had hoped to increase even further his fortune by stone over which run beds of poisoned lichen. The junc- marrying his daughter into a favorable alliance. But Oda’s tion between these two quarters is an immense shore- fate was already destined for all of eternity. She became line fixed in a silence so hostile it would haunt the night- the wife of Aghnar — the second Metabaron, and that mares of a blind man. Essentially composed of oxygen was the end of delusions of grandeur for Baggdathi-the- and hydrogen, Sec-Hum’s atmosphere is incessantly be- Pearl’s monarch. He became insane and his wonderful ing traversed on one side of the sphere by endless col- kingdom, where one traded in peace and built huge for- umns of jagged clouds, and on the other, by scalding gusts tunes, was delivered into the hands of numberless preda- of wind loaded with corrosive debris. tors with insatiable ap-petites from galaxies all over. Hyperspatial Approach Vector Coordinates: 16sah24 Baggdathi-the-Pearl was carved up and entered in-to a Satellites: Sec-Hum has two satellites, Flame and dismal era of chaos, which con-tinues still today. Droplet. Flora and Fauna: This world, precisely cut into quar- SEC-HUM ters, provides a habitat for extremely varied flora and Aliens: Gords, Hireas and Odor1ters (Suuskins) fauna, which changes according to the zone. In the aquatic Atmosphere: Type I (breathable) part exposed to sunlight, quantities of amphibious spe- Category: Minor World cies (mollusks, crustaceans, fish, sea mammals, etc.) live Climate: Torrid, temperate and glacial along with numerous amounts of odd plants and veg- Day Length: 12 standard hours etables (moss, seaweed, coral, etc.). The aquatic section Year Length: 127 local days which is plunged in darkness is much more mysterious. Government: Tribal Underwater trenches plummet thousands of meters deep Gravity: Standard into the heart of the planet, and it wouldn’t be surprising Hydrosphere: Saturated that fantastic and fanciful creatures lived there. In the arid, Major Exports: Perfumes, ore beads lighted zone, if the flora is poor (crooked cacti, close- Major Imports: Weapons cropped moss, thorny bushes), the fauna is rich, notably Planet’s Function: No role on the Imperial scale, but it in crawling insects and ophidian creatures. The air is filled is the guardian Podrih-Do’s refuge with unsettling hisses and the piercing squeak of beetle Population: Approximately 1 billions individuals wing-cases. On the dark side, the fauna gives way to the Proximity to a Techno-Tunnel: 4dt flora. Toxic lichens that cover the ground give the area an Spaceport: None atmosphere of silent desolation. In the median plane, Technology: Industrial which separates the dry world from the humid, rich, var- Terrain: Deserts, marshes, oceans ied, and mysterious flora and fauna colonize the area. As Type: Terrestrial it is difficult to ac-cess this zone, the flora and fauna re- Galaxy: Milky Way, Terra Prima’s main poorly known. galaxy Population: Two large populations Constellation: Otocomo inhabited the Sec-Hum planet. In the Star System: Soto If you can believe the arid barren part live the Gords — a tribe Physical Characteristics: The first of accounts of an independent of humanoids covered with foul-smell- four planets in the Soto system, Sec- smuggler who has frequent ing scales. Where the sun continuously Hum presents the particularity of be- business with the Odoraters, beats down its hot rays, the Gord’s pres- ing half desert and half water, contrary it seems they have perfected ence inevitably produces an atmos-phere to the three other planets (Kolohoro, a “magic” perfume, which unbearable to the human nose. On the Sohoro, and Gobo) which are com- allows them to control the other hand, in the aquatic section live pletely arid. This immense ball of minds of those who breath the Hireas — perfumed, aquatic people 58,000 kilometers in diameter, rotates it. A veritable potion of pow- who emit subtle and delicate fragrances. on its axis in twelve standard hours, and erful charms, it offers to The social hierarchy of these two groups completes its orbit in 127 standard those who get a hold of it a is organized according to olfactory par- days. Perfectly aligned on the axis of fantastic conquering weapon ticularities. The more the individual’s its ecliptic, Sec-Hum always presents that works in an effectively scent is pronounced, the higher his po- the same side to the photonic rays of serene and quiet way. sition in society. (With respect to cus- its astral sun. The well-lit half of the tomary human criteria, a meeting of the planet is composed of a quarter desert Gords Tribe Wiseman’s council is a veritable infectious with an inland sea occupying the remaining tenth. The stench to the nostrils. However, the privilege of a natural atmosphere was a mix of gas rich in oxygen. To- face-to-face meeting with a Hireas dignitary is pure day, carbon dioxide and fluoro-chlorinated waste com- rapture.) In the median plane, which separates the two pounds compose the base of its ambient air. The normal antagonistic half-worlds lives a third people — the rhythm of seasons (a hot season and a cold season sepa- Suuskins, or Ordoraters. They owe their name to their rated by two short intermediary seasons) has been greatly thorough and detailed knowledge of aromatic molecules, disrupted, and the climate today is uniformly heavy and and their ability to synthesize them. muggy. The planet mass has been considerably enlarged

Chapter 7 • 88 Additional Information: From time immemorial, the by the agglomeration of diverse neighboring astral bodies Gords and the Hireas haven’t been able to stand one utilized for construction materials, and its diameter has another. War between them was old habit. The increased to 37,000 kilometers. Ordoraters, on the other hand, have more recently ap- Hyperspatial Approach Vector Coordinates: 76mac60 peared on the scene. They form a peaceful, trading people, Satellites: Nibal today no longer has any satellites. who maintain a very profitable business activity with both Flora and Fauna: From its meager original flora, noth- the Gords and the Hireas, to whom they sold perfumes ing has survived. For that which would be the animal king- and essences alternately fetid and intoxicating. From time dom, all the endemic species have been engulfed and con- to time, they didn’t hesitate selling weapons to one or the sumed by a local race of saurians — the Zerkots. other to help them bring an end to their quarrel. Finally, Population: Two large populations shared the planet: the Gords appealed to Aghnar, the mercenary Metabaron the Zerkots (telepathic saurians) and the Giant-Machines. for his services, in order to eliminate the Hireas. But it The former created the latter, but these creatures escaped cannot be ruled out that representatives of these aquatic from their masters’ control. After a period of self- people, hidden in the deepest ocean trenches, may have autonomization, the Giant-Machines entered into rebel- survived the massacre. lion against the saurians. Additional Information: Cold-blooded creatures en- NIBAL dowed with intelligence and capable of picking up nega- Aliens: Zerkots tive thoughts emitted by any thinking beings nearby, the Atmosphere: Type III (breather unit required) Zerkots embarked upon a technological conquest of their Category: Minor World (of the Exofringe) environment, which was possibly initially spurred on by Climate: Hot and humid a representative of the Techno-Techno Cult. Thus they Day Length: 28 standard hours transformed their small planet into an immense mega-city Year Length: 753 local days run by instrumentation of a greater and greater sophisti- Government: Ultraparticipative cation. This growing sophistication reached its highest Gravity: Standard point with the revolution of the Giant-Machines. Hydrosphere: Saturated The telepathic Zerkots worked out a strategy for tap- Major Exports: Precision Technology ping into thoughts founded on systematic distrust. On Major Imports: Weapons their side, the machines and devices pushed their own Planet’s Function: Unbeknownst to the Zerkots, Nibal intelligence so far that they came to feel the emotion of serves as an experimentation base for the Techno-Technos melancholy. In fact, only their boundless adoration of their Population: 3.54 billion specimens (excluding ma- creators kept them from giving into a profound suicidal chines) impulse. The Zerkots perceived to the point of disgust Proximity to a Techno-Tunnel: 2dt and disillusionment the sticky flood of sentimentalist Spaceport: First Class emotions emanating from their machine-creations and Technology: Space hastened to closely screen out these annoying emotions, Terrain: Plains, marshes through their analytically paranoid sifters. Type: Terrestrial Their mutual incomprehension quite Galaxy: Milky Way, Terra Prima’s naturally lead to an irreparable state, galaxy and the mercenary Metabaron Aghnar Constellation: Dius The “Forbidden was called to intervene, bringing an Star System: Antri City” sleeps in the ruins of end to the intelligent Giant-Machines’ Physical Characteristics: Second Nibal. This ancient, dilapi- bloody condemnation of those who planet of the Antri system, which counts dated megalopolis was not scorned their adulation. Since then, three in all (Abu and Hamos are the so long ago the neuras- Nipal has been in a pitiful state, but it two others), Nibal was originally a thenic machine nerve cen- still harbors colossal technical re- small sphere (17,000 kilometers in di- ter. Plunged into a deep sources. ameter) rich in metallic minerals of all sleep, this powerful tech- ILODENDRA sorts and hydrocarbons. Nibal rotates nology wants only to be F on its axis in 28 standard hours, and rescued and to give itself Aliens: None completes its orbit in 753 standard over to its savior… Atmosphere: Type I (breathable) days. Initially, a vast continental pla- Category: Minor World teau recovered nine tenths of its surface, Climate: Temperate Day Length: 32 Standard hours Year Length: 487 local days 89 • Worlds “Look, I’m tellin’ Additional Information: Government: Techno-Pope you there ain’t just The Troglosocialk galaxy’s Gravity: Standard bikramen down there! capital planet, Filodendra, was Hydrosphere: Humid There’s goddamn sulfide… with regard to Techno-Techno cri- Major Exports: Bikramen and I know what I’m talkin’ teria, relatively underdeveloped. Major Imports: Manual labor, tech- ‘bout, ‘cause I was part of The paleo-architecture of its build- nology that ex-plor-a-tion team that ings was an insult to the postmodern Planet’s Function: Bikramen produc- went underground on technological norms. But its inhab- tion, a compound permitting the syn- Gehenna V…” — One of the itants, under the authority of Don thetic production of epiphyte first humanoid workers sent Nicanor Rosamel de Roka and then Population: 2 billion inhabitants, underground, overheard his daughter Dona Vincenta all immigrants/nonnatives talking in a miners bar. Gabriella de Rokha, lived in harmony Proximity to a Techno-Tunnel: 2dt with their environment and in total re- Spaceport: Stellar Class spect of their planet and its beauties. Technology: Space Unfortunately, the taste for the simple Terrain: Plains life had a disadvantage — great military weakness. When Type: Terrestrial the Techno-Technos’ galactic bloodhounds detected huge Galaxy: Milky Way, Terra Prima’s galaxy bikramen deposits (a precious ore permitting massive pro- Constellation: Selva duction of artificial epyphite) in the Troglosocalik sys- Star System: Tri-sol tem, that was the end of peace and tranquility for Physical Characteristics: The Tri-Sol system, lit by a com- Filodendra. The cheerful ecological planet underwent a plex triple star, groups nine planets, of which Filodendra is final and definitive assault by the Techno-Techno the largest (74,000 kilometers in diameter). A terra-teflon- metamorphe armada, during which Don Nicanor, already concrete planet, Filodendra completes a rotation on its axis brought back once from death, met with his definitive in 32 hours. Without being exceptionally rich (with the ex- end. During the battle, the Rokhas’s ancestral castle, the ception of an extremely dense vein of bikramen), the under- second halerce tree (brought from Gzagn by Steelhead), ground layers contain all the necessary elements for a har- magnificent ancient cities, and thousands of other splen- monious development (metal, mineral, hydrocarbon com- dors were reduced to a state of ruin. All of Filodendra’s pounds). Formerly a veritable haven of natural beauty, inhabitants were transported to a terra-formed world, Filodendra offered its visitors a full spectrum of landscapes: made of teflon and granyl, and their planet was torn apart. forests, prairies, rivers, oceans, mountains, and deserts. Har- moniously blended into the scenery, the housing develop- GZAGN ments mixed subtly with nature to compose a serene and Aliens: Macrolice soothing picture. The atmosphere was predominately com- Atmosphere: Type II (Breather Unite recommended) posed of oxygen, and the air was brisk and intoxicating. In Category: Distant World the image of Terra Prima, Filodendra experienced all cli- Climate: Hot mates. Seasons were well defined, alternating calmly Day Length: 11 hours and 42 minutes, standard throughout their year of 487 days. Year Length: 47 local days Hyperspatial Approach Vector Coordinates: 36dnd49 Government: Monarchy Satellites: Filodendra has seven silver moons. Gravity: Standard Flora and Fauna: Thanks to its exceptional natural con- Hydrosphere: Saturated ditions, Filodendra provided a habitat for an exuberant Major Exports: None natural life. Millions of wild species cohabited and formed Major Imports: None an exceptional ecological equilibrium. Filodendra had Planet’s Function: None notably a tree whose fruit was extremely obliging, flying Population: 250 billion individuals into the air when ripe and offering itself for tasting. But Proximity to a Techno-Tunnel: 7dt above all, the planet concealed the most ancient tree Spaceport: None known to the galaxy: a halerce tree, 250,000 standard Technology: Alien Iindustrial years old, with golden leaves, made up of five million Terrain: High plateaux, basins, marshes, deltas dioucas — tiny feathered creatures who are legendary, Type: Terrestrial capable of singing with the pure voice of the castratos. Galaxy: Black Population: Until the period of the third Metabaron, Constellation: Nol Steelhead, Filodendra was populated by a mix of humans Star System: Blackhol and mutants, all extremely preoccupied with preserving Physical Characteristics: Enveloped in a heavy atmo- the fragile beauty and wonderful equilibrium of their sphere of methane and sulfuric acid compounds, the little planet. Today, Filodendra is inhabited exclusively by planet Gzagn (12,000 kilometers in diameter) forms the Techno-technicians and other industrial paleo-vultures, center of the cavernous Blackhol system. A veritable cos- specialized in extraction mining, who come from all the mic aberration, Blackhol is a black star that emits a faint galaxies to pull up and tear out the riches from the earth. light with viscous reflections. Gzagn rotates on its axis in Year Length: 77 local days 11 hours 42 minutes and Since the disappear- Government: Supreme Central completes its orbit in 47 stan- ance of their sacred halerce, Computer and Techno-Pontificate dard days. The vast continental the macromites have lost Gravity: Standard basin which forms its surface has a faith in their ancestral reli- Hydrosphere: Moderate deep depression in its center, wa- gion. They savagely tore the Major Exports: Technology tered by a dense subterranean hy- Buddha-louse to shreds and Major Imports: None drographic network, loaded with scattered his remains across Planet’s Function: Techno-Techno’s putrid sediments. At regular inter- Chapter 7 • 90 their putrid planet. From seat of power, the Guardian Ophidat’s vals, downpours sweep the edges of that point on, they have been refuge the basin, filling its core with seeping awaiting the return of their Population: 7 billion inhabitants floods of heavy, viscous rains. The intergalactic messiah, with Proximity to a Techno-Tunnel: 1hT chemical combination of alluvial de- their eyes riveted towards the Spaceport: First Class posits and micro-organisms release in- skies, a mix of hope and an- Technology: Space (and more) tensely foul-smelling clouds in perma- guish in their hearts. He will Terrain: Plains nence. The ground presents a spongy come looking for them and Type: Terratransformed asteroid and jelly-like texture. lead them into spreading fur- Galaxy: Milky Way, Terra Prima’s Hyperspatial Approach Vector Co- ther death and chaos in the galaxy ordinates: 27ars19 cosmos…. Constellation: Forum Satellites: Gzagn has one satellite, Star System: Tekna Gavel. Physical Characteristics: Originally, Flora and Fauna: On this not very Central Planet was a barren asteroid cheerful planet grew a wonder of na- revolving around the small Tekna system. Despite an ex- ture — an old halerce tree of 370,000 standard years, tremely modest size (a diameter of barely 5000 kilome- where nine million dioucas nested. This tree and its birds ters), this tiny celestial body had a gravity superior to that the Metabaron Melmoth removed to give to his true love, of the four planets in the system. At first intrigued by this Doña Vincenta of Filodendra. phenomenon, then fascinated by the mystery of the high- Apart from this tree, there was no plant life on the sur- tech relics unearthed in the heart of the sphere, the Techno- face of Gzagn. However, besides an abundant bacterial Techno authorities decided to establish the seat of its sa- wildlife, Gzagn houses an immense population of cred headquarters here. After ten centuries of Herculean macromites, which fed on chemical miasma and revered construction efforts by an armada of robot-factories, Cen- the sacred halerce. tral Planet today presents the respectable size of 77,777 Population: The macromites, who have reached a par- kilometers in diameter. An artificial atmosphere was cre- ticular stage of development halfway between the animal ated, comprised of hydrogen and oxygen and perfumed kingdom and human intelligence, make up the only re- with incense. Permanently protected by a positron shield, corded population on Gzagn. Despite this slight delay on Central Planet experiences neither seasonal nor climato- evolution’s highway, they have developed a strong reli- logical phenomenons of any kind. Its core’s powerful mag- gious feeling. Thus they venerate the Buddha-louse, a ven- netism remains perceptible for parsecs around. erable spiritually illuminated louse, who lived glued to Hyperspatial Approach Vector Coordinates: 77tek77 the tree. Each morning, as the celestial Satellites: Central Planet has two star rose on the horizon, a mysterious satellites: Romulus and Remus. device offset a trembling of the halerce, The Supreme Central Flora and Fauna: There is absolutely and thousands of freshly laid doucas’s Brain is anxious… no natural animal or plant life on Cen- eggs fell from the tree. The macromites Occiputal-Cogito, its divina- tral Planet. fed on the eggs in ecstasy. As for the tory mind, announced the Population: Close to seven billion millions of dioucas who lived in the tree, coming of weird and individuals live on Central Planet. they fed on the sap — a sweet nectar troubled times, where the Additional Information: The that clarified their voices. Techno-Technos order’s per- Techno-papal headquarters, Central Additional Information: Ungainly in fect organization will be Planet concentrates all branches of the its appearance is a veritable insult to threatened by a new kind of Techno-saint religion. Techno-semi- the sense of smell, Gzagn well merits hero. Animated by unwaver- nars train future Techno-temple execu- being called the “foulest place in the ing faith, these valiant tives (Techno-popes, Techno-bishops, Universe.” knights of a thousand virtues Techno-cardinals, Techno-monks, CENTRAL PLANET could jeopardize the all pow- Techno-vergers, Techno-altar boys, erful Tenebrae, armed only and even Techno-castratos) intended Aliens: None with their courage, forged in to serve in the laboratory factories. Atmosphere: Type I (breathable) the heart of their honor This colossal organization is equally Category: Major World code…. known by the name of Magnus Dei. Climate: Cold Besides its adminis-trative system, Day Length: 77 standard hours Central Planet oversees the training of its military wing, the Techno-crusaders. The soldiers of the Church of the Industrial Saints are all abandoned male rotating speed compensates the force of attrac- 91 • Worlds children, gathered from Hospital Planet or elsewhere, or tion between these two heavenly bodies, which al- sometimes abducted here and there in the cosmos. lows them to touch lightly without colliding into one The unassailable Techno temple, impregnable heart of another. For each of these two planets, the orbit is com- the sacred Techno headquarters (which, nonetheless, could pleted in 322 standard days. This amusing astronomic not withstand the superhuman powers of the Metabaron particularity gave birth to two civilizations, distinct but Steelhead) is the Techno-Pope’s residence. In its vaults, se- perfectly united, who have developed one of the most cret archives and sacred Techno-relics contain paleo-secrets original symbiotic existences in the universe. that go back to the origins of humanity. But that isn’t all: Hyperspatial Approach Vector Coordinates: 22bes22 Hidden in a crypt buried deeper still than all the others, is Satellites: The double planets Arh and Rah have one of the greatest and best kept mysteries of the universe. no satellites. Despite an innocuous first impression, the three Ophid- Flora and Fauna: Arh and Rah are gifted with flora and ian creatures with metallic reflecting skin (gold, silver, and fauna in every way comparable, with the only difference bronze), the three Bodras, who live here are in fact the being that only male animals live on Rah, and obviously, keepers and protectors of an immeasurably powerful tech- those that live on Arh are female. Their reproduction is trig- nology, older than the universe itself. It happens that on gered by genetic pollination, which takes place at the mo- the scales of these metallic serpents all of the secrets to ment of summer solstice, followed by the phenomenon of the greatest enigmas are engraved in characters of incom- parthenogenesis and androgenesis. For the most part, the parable fineness. In these three entities, one can see the flora on Arh and Rah is made up of fodder planets and obscure source of power of the Techno-Techno order. legumes, and the fauna is essentially made up of draft animals or livestock suitable for human consumption. ARH AND RAH Population: The double planets are inhabited by two Aliens: None distinct populations of common origin. They are the hu- Atmosphere: Type I (breathable) manoid race of Bessons. Category: Distant World Additional Information: On Arh live the female ele- Climate: Temperate ments of the Bessons race, and of course, Rah accommo- Day Length: 19 standard hours dates the male elements of the same race. Thus separated, Year Length: 322 local days the representatives of the two sexual principals consecrate Government: Egalitarian mystical the essential part of their existence to the preparation of Gravity: Standard the summer solstice, which marks the highpoint of their Hydrosphere: Moderate personal and social lives. After many rituals are accom- Major Exports: Rare raw materials plished in the Matrix Temple on Arh and the Gonad Major Imports: None Temple on Rah respectively, and strength incantations are Planet’s Function: None recited during the course of the year, Population: 200 million (on the two the women on Arh and the men on Rah strip themselves naked, exposing planets) The absolute ban themselves during the entire day of sol- Proximity to a Techno-Tunnel: 4dT that forbids male elements stice to the radiance of the extremely Spaceport: None from visiting Arh and female nearby twin planet. This exposure to Technology: Feudal elements from visiting Rah, opposite sexual emissions brings about Terrain: Hills, plains isn’t just a formality. In fact, an impregnation of the Bessons fe- Type: Terrestrial (with some particu- all offenders are handed di- males through photogenesis, an action larities) rectly over to the “Mothers entirely unique in all of that universe. Galaxy: Doublon and Fathers of the Insem- Afterwards, during the winter solstice, Constellation: Gemini ination’s” mortal authority. the children carried by the Bessons fe- Star System: Binario These mystical guardians of males are born. The girls are kept on Physical Characteristics: This strange Arh and Rah feel the vibra- planet Arh, and the boys are given cosmogonic ensemble, under the sign of tions emitted by the two back to the Bessons males at the fol- the twins, is made up of two sets of inti- planets when the presence of lowing summer solstice at the precise mately associated planets and suns, each a representative of the oppo- moment when the two planets are just of the two former rotating around each site sex is detected. Accord- barely touching. of the two latter. The respective orbits ing to the tradition, only the completed by Arh and Rah are perfectly perfect Androgyne can visit GALACTIC PLATFORM synchronized: At the winter solstice, they the two planets without risk, occupy two diametrically opposed posi- but Janus-Jana has always MASSES tions and are several millions of kilome- declined their invitations, as Aliens: Arkarotes ters distant from one another. During the moreover, all of His-Her pre- Atmosphere: Type I (breathable) summer solstice, the two planets come decessors. and Type II (breather unit recom- near enough to brush up against one an- mended) according to the zone other. A temporary acceleration of the tic Platforms can be nothing but origi- Category: Distant Minor Veritable space fun- nal. Enthu-siastic heliotrope followers, World ambulists, the “platform op- their first notable charac-teristic is to Climate: Variable erators” are the Mass’s look- live exclusively in diurnal conditions. Day Length: Variable outs. They relentlessly scan That being the case, it is impossible for Year Length: Variable the horizons, pinpoint the them to synchronize their repose with Government: Guilds upper and lower star beds, the arrival of darkness. In practice, the Gravity: Heavy and then push away drifting animals, like other beings from higher

Chapter 7 • 92 Hydrosphere: Dry asteroids with their long, orders, interrupt their activities when Major Exports: Ore, gems, tech- energized sticks. fatigue overcomes them to fall into a nological residue/waste refreshing sleep, some in a lying-down Major Imports: Rudimentary tech- position and others standing. The great nology diversity of circadian rhythms particu- Planet’s Function: Roaming planet with no major lar to each species means that one can always catch a function glimpse, here and there, of an individual falling over into Population: 120 million inhabitants Morpheus’ arms. For their part, the plants experience an Proximity to a Techno-Tunnel: 21dt uninterrupted growth cycle as soon as the platform upon Spaceport: 1st of a minimal class, on a neighboring which they live starts to be illuminated. However, when asteroid firmly stowed/secured in the platform’s wake the sun’s rays become more and more like slivers of light, Technology: Industrial indicating that the period of darkness is on its way, they Terrain: Plateaus, hills, plains prepare for a hibernation period of undetermined length. Type: Related to asteroid barriers Each plant has the capacity to gather its genetic inherit- Galaxy: Kiraz ance in hard and compact seeds, able to withstand mil- Constellation: Civilized Confines lions of years in glacial conditions below absolute zero. Star System: Tezus Afterwards, exposure to a calorific ray allows them to Physical Characteristics: An interstellar curiosity border- immediately start germinating. For the animal species, ing on incongruity, the Galactic Platform Masses are giant certain ones enter into hibernation, but a good number platforms that travel up and down the civilized borders as a observe a period of migration and pass from one facet to consequence of being carried along by the stellar winds. the other according to the position of the galactic belts in Their formation, and the beginning of their roaming, goes relation to solar asters. back approximately to the “great catastrophe” era, which Population: The inhabitants of the Galactic Platforms, is equally at the origin of the stellar ice floe’s creation. From called the Arkarotes, are extraterrestrial proto-humanoids a geological standpoint, it consists of a planet’s different perfectly adapted to their environ-ment. Because, in order strata, which has been literally cut into blocks by a mysteri- to compensate for the gravity of 2.1 that reigns on the Ga- ous force, still undetermined today. Since this dismem- lactic Platforms (Terra Prima’s gravity being equal to 1) and berment, the different formations, flat for the most part but weighs down bodies and objects, they developed a tremen- having variable shapes and dimensions, remain held in place, dous musculature. Their trunk is classically extended by regrouped among themselves, by a powerful residual mag- four limbs, ending in a prehensile organ, which may be quali- netic field, no doubt stemming from the original planet core. fied as a hand. Although they can hold themselves verti- Besides the tectonic cohesion effect, the Galactic Platforms’ cally, they willingly adopt walking on all fours. Despite the density allows the advantageous presence of a fine atmo- gravity, they are extremely agile, allowing them to traverse spheric layer (carbon, ozone, oxygen, and hydrogen), which the arches that join the platforms to one another with sur- is sufficient for maintaining life on the surface. Of course, prising speed and yet without risk. Additionally, the layers the Galactic Platform Masses don’t make an orbit. This said, of the platforms are pierced by hundreds of tunnels that their peregrinations in the interstellar void have almost cer- facilitate migration from one face to another. tain similarities to a huge circular journey, which leads them Additional Information: Lost on some rocky islands in in turn to the outskirts of different stars. Whereas they know distress in the ultimate void, these veritable space cast- neither the alternation of day and night, nor the phenom- aways ended up carving out an enviable situation for them- enon of seasons, the Galactic Platforms are not always lit selves. In fact, their accounts in the Ekonomat’s banking on the same side by the different stars they cross. Conse- establishments are particularly well filled. One might quently, conditions suitable for life are possible only in al- wonder about the origins of their fortune, but in fact it is ternation on each face, according to changing rhythms. quite simple. Their territory, being in constant movement However, even with a favorable sun, the cross-sections (or in the cosmos, drags in its wake unlimited quantities of platform layers) remain often barren and unsuitable for life. asteroids, meteorites, and diverse debris, which sometimes Hyperspatial Approach Vector Coordinates: 53ark72 contain veritable treasures: pure netrankkon, stellar crys- Satellites: Different asteroids, sucked up in the Galactic tal veins, etc. Across the thread of time, the Arkarotes Platforms’ wake, act as satellites. made collecting meteorites in space into a specialty, so Flora and Fauna: Within such a context, the animal much so that they are often known by the name of and plant species that populate the surface of the Galac- “Meteorists.” UZZELINE P 93 • Worlds form and shape comparable to that of other plan- Aliens: None ets. Then during the 262 standard days that follow, Atmosphere: Type I (breathable) as Puzzeline approaches Trompo, crevices appear at Category: Distant World its surface. Little by little, these fissures become gulfs Climate: Torrid and then chasms. The planet disintegrates. This phase Day Length: 26 standard hours culminates on the 262nd day (winter solstice), when Year Length: 524 local days Puzzeline is precisely in the axis of Trompo and Solis. Government: Theocracy The planet is then splintered into eleven principal pieces, Gravity: Light and 658 less important bits. Next, the phenomenon sta- Hydrosphere: Dry bilizes and slowly reverses itself to the point of Puzzeline’s Major Exports: None complete recompostion. Every year for thousands of years, Major Imports: None it has proceeded in this way, and will continue to do so for Planet’s Function: None millions of years to come. Population: an average of 1 billion inhabitants, tak- Hyperspatial Approach Vector Coordinates: 46puz97 ing into account extreme variations Satellites: Puzzeline has two small satellites called the Proximity to a Techno-Tunnel: 9dt Children of Mother Puzzeline. Spaceport: None Flora and Fauna: At Puzzeline’s surface, the vegetation Technology: Feudal is uniformly cropped: from the lichens in the cold zones Terrain: Medium-sized mountains, deserts, plains, to the savannas of the arid zone. The rare trees barely abyss, caves reach five or six meters in height. A crawling ivy carpets Type: Related to terrestrial planets the bottom of the crevices. Each year, it is ripped out at Galaxy: Hersa the time of disintegration, but it bravely starts out again Constellation: Fyack the following season. Relatively rich, Puzzeline’s fauna Star System: Solis has no predator. All of the land mammals are vegetarian. Physical Characteristics: The Solis system is a surprising Population: The quite specific conditions that govern configuration in which two planets, Trompo and Puzzeline life on Puzzeline have, of course, fashioned a highly original (also called Puzzeline the Mysterious) dance a strange bal- civilization, where the dominant theme is migration. This is let. A small, extremely dense stellar body (1,500 kilometers because the areas most favorable to life when the planet is in diameter, 3.7 times Terra Prima’s gravity, 5.56 millions perfectly formed turn into the most hostile at the time of of kilometers from Solis), Trompo rotates on its axis at a disintegration. Survival becomes extremely difficult there, vertiginous speed. It equally presents the particularity of indeed even impossible. The battle for the best lands is harsh resting perfectly in place, like an eternally and made that much harder when the wound-up top, carrying out its crazed year advances toward the summer sol- rotation around an invisible string that On Puzzeline, like on stice, with the harvests just garnered and cuts across space. Trompo is completely many other worlds, young the race against time for the best refuges inhabitable. males often show off to prove begins. Every year, these two great exo- Puzzeline, for its part, is mobile. It to their sweethearts that they duses give rise to numerous confronta- completes a vast orbit around the Solis are the robust and dauntless tions and other battles, where an impor- star and the fixed point of Trompo. En- men that these young women tant part of the population perishes. dowed with an atmosphere rich in oxy- had been wishing for. In dem- On the fringe of Puzzeline’s popula- gen, Puzzeline is entirely favorable to life, onstration of their bravery, in- tion lives a religious sect who revere and its inhabitants would linger on there stead of confronting one an- the “Mother Puzzeline.” In accordance happily day after day, if a strange break- other in duels, or engaging in with the planet’s particular require- up phenomenon didn’t come at regular some courtship display, they ments, Mother Puzzeline’s followers intervals to trouble their tranquility. practice an extremely danger- (called the Puzzelars) also practice two Thousands of years of physical stress, ous form of love exhibition: pilgrimages per year. However, at the undergone by Puzzeline at each passage When the planet commences winter solstice, instead of taking ref- before Trompo, had at first eroded the its breaking apart phase, the uge on one of the larger blocks of the geological equilibrium of its continental young males leap over the planet, they penetrate into the heart of plates and then enlarged the fracture lines widening open chasms, jump- the planet through the fissures, to reach to the point of fissuring the planet to its ing from one piece of earth to their cave sanctuaries. During core. Since that time, during its orbital another. In certain seasons, Puzzeline’s recomposition, only half of journey, which lasts exactly 524 days, 6 the losses are appalling, to the the followers leave the caves to live at hours, and 27 standard minutes, extent that the number of the surface and preach the words of Puzzeline experiences two distinct phases sons of Puzzeline who have Mother Puzzeline. There is therefore a of breaking apart and recomposition. At disappeared in this manner is community of Puzzelars who live per- the summer solstice, when Puzzeline is no longer counted. manently in the depths of Puzzeline. opposite Trompo and behind the sun, Puzzeline appears perfectly united, in a A L I E N S

At this stage in the contest to conquer space, the work universe with easily definable laws. (If you are play- human race from Terra Prima is in the overwhelming ing the Metabarons Roleplaying Game, this means that you majority in the universe. Following the great Diaspora should feel free to throw in your own peculiar places, strange — the exodus of Terra Prima’s elite to the Golden civilizations, and bizarre manifestations.) Planet, the conquest of gigantic Maganats by generals Although some are lucky enough not to be on the affiliated with the Empire, and the expanding settle- Empire’s expansionist map, time is not necessarily on their ment of Terra Prima’s damned on tens of thousands of side, since they could reach a stage of development that major and minor colonized worlds — humanity has makes them forces to be reckoned with. Fortunately for settled on all the viable sites they have found, often to human dominance, the alien races have never united the detriment of intelligent and other life forms unfortu- against the all-powerful Human Empire. Some aliens also nate enough to be in their way. nurse an intense hatred of other aliens, and this blind ha- With their customary conquering spirit, humans have tred could push them as far as to form alliances with the more often exterminated than assimilated. Yet the uni- Empire to fight their enemy. verse is vast. Many areas have not yet been explored, and an indeterminate number of alien races have not yet been THE NUNARS discovered. These races are at different stages of develop- Natives of Nunh, these tiny space travelers suffer from ment. Some are at the dawn of evolution, whereas others Peter Pan paleo-syndrome. Although they can live as long are highly developed civilizations with a command of as 3,000 standard years, they look like eternal cherubs powerful technology. In its unrelenting advance, the hu- with the naive pureness of children. There have been re- man race has shamelessly annihilated the weakest, most ports of sightings from all over, but they are rarely sub- peaceful and defenseless alien races and has come to terms stantiated as if no one believed those who saw them or with those that it could not tackle head on. the witnesses decided to keep their secret. This means that some aliens, generally humanoids, are Kindly, but shy, the Nunars may decide to aid anyone sometimes found integrated into human groups and popu- they think deserves help. In addition to the advice they lations. Although they are more or less tolerated, they give, which is solely advice since they refuse to get physi- still tend to be snubbed, partiuclarly when their physical characteristics make them obviously alien. The rebel communities, especially the pirates mercilessly hounded by the Imperial forces, have a much higher proportion of aliens than the standard worlds, where the majority of the population is human. However, in some systems and galaxies, Colonial and Maganat planets co-exist with alien worlds able to stand up to them. Here, the human and alien worlds maintain diplomatic, although not necessarily courteous, relations in order to avoid any annoying escalation of violence with regrettable consequences for everyone concerned. Human ambassadors are therefore found on alien planets and vice versa. Sometimes, this policy of open- ness leads to trade and even the establishment of communities in the other world. In some extreme cases, mixed marriages have even been reported. But this is much more the exception than the rule. Human-alien hybrids or multispecies mixes are not numerous, but they are possible. The universe is vast, and what might be rare in one place could be common in another. If it has ever been dreamd of, and even some things that haven’t, it most likely exists somewhere in the universe. Humans generally see the alien races as mysterious and inscrutable. They develop their own customs and lifestyles on their worlds, worshipping obscure gods, drawing on unknown forces, and even acquiring superior technologies. Many planets and peoples of this universe have characteristics not based on the basic physical laws — the Akuas (described in this chapter) are just one example of this. Space is vast and not uniform. The Human Universe is not a clock- cally involved in a situation, the Nunars can detect the vectors of powers in the universe: gateways, guardians, est rocky overhang and water in the finest mist. 95 • Aliens forces, and treasures of all kinds. This talent has earned But above all, they have become masters in the them the nickname “cherub probes” or “pedo-probes.” art of burying themselves alive in a deep cataleptic sleep and surviving the worst meteorological fury for THE GORDS, HIREAS, AND SUUSKINS long periods of time. They don’t reserve this faculty Three of the most interesting alien races live on the Soto just for their scorching desert; they can just as easily system’s planet Sec-Hum in the Terra Prima galaxy. They survive on the steppes of the northern tundra. represent exactly what interstellar travelers can expect to They have built their capital at the junction between come across on their travels through space. Sec-Hum is a the hot desert and the cold desert. This small town of vast sphere 58,000 kilometers in diameter and perfectly cave dwellings harbors their temple and their most pre- aligned with its ecliptic axis. This incredibly rare cosmo- cious treasures. The Gords have a hard time living an logical attribute creates an astonishing geophysical effect: urban life and are generally nomadic. Half of the planet is permanently lit, while the other half PSYCHOLOGICAL PROFILE is immersed in perpetual darkness. Sec-Hum is also half- The Gords are meditative with a definite animist lean- water and half-desert, equally distributed over each of ing. They live in harmony with their environment and the two hemispheres. One top quarter of the planet is a would be totally peaceful if fate had not made the Hireas permanently sun-baked desert, while the lower quarter is their neighbors. The Hireas embody everything they ab- a desert that never sees the light. One quarter on the other hor to see and smell, triggering an irrepressible hatred side is a sunny sea, and the last water-covered quarter is that compels them to make war on them and even sell plunged into darkness. The range of temperatures on the their treasures to buy weapons. planet’s surface varies enormously from the scorching desert with its average of around 80°C to a polar average RESOURCES AND POWERS of –100°C on the other side of the world. Ever since they realized that the colored gems found A wide belt of swampland stretches around the globe under their arid desert aroused the greed of smugglers between the water world and the desert world. Under the and other merchants, the Gords have armed themselves midday sun, these marshes are huge fetid, insect-infested to the hilt with weapons of war. They have powerful ar- lagoons. In the nighttime of the north, they are tundra, tillery shrewdly combined with a swift and silent aerostatic where stinging lichens grow and repulsive crawling crea- force. Their soldiers are unrivalled on the ground, espe- tures with huge shells swarm. cially in the desert region. These formidable fighters The Gords, the Hireas, and the Suuskins live respec- can fire on the enemy without being seen. How- tively in the deserts, the seas, and the marshland. ever, their supreme weapon is their command of the earth’s force, with which they seem to have THE GORDS a virtually mystical affinity. The Gords — a humanoid people covered in stinking scales — live in the arid THE HIREAS desert part of the planet. They are per- The sweet-smelling aquatic Hireas live in fectly adapted to the constraints of their all the planet’s waters. Wherever they go, environment. They can endure the high- they leave in their wake a delicately flow- est temperatures and survive cold close ery and woody scent with a slight hint of to zero degrees. spice. Prim and proper, but also military PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS and rigid, the Hireas crisscross Sec-Hum’s warm and cold waterways, living an ac- Although their shape suggests a remote tive society life albeit with constant ma- human ancestry, certain physical details ir- neuvers and defense exercises. refutably rank them among the alien races. They average 2.5 meters in height with ath- PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS letic and well-proportioned bodies, even These huge fishlike creatures can grow though their legs seem slightly too long. Their to a length of five meters. They differ in bodies are totally covered with thick heat- shape depending on the water area in regulating scales that protect them, but that which they live. The deep-sea dwellers liv- also give them a particularly putrid body odor. ing in the depths of abysses thousands of HABITAT meters deep often look quite monstrous with horns, armor, protuberances, and other defor- Impelled by the demands of an extreme enmities. However, the warm-water Hireas have vironment, the Gords are the kings of mimetic long smooth and supple bodies. The vast ma- fusion with their surroundings. They have de- jority of them have limbs in the form of short veloped this technique to the point of being legs and scrawny arms but also sometimes, able to inhabit the most arid landscape, become other organs they can grip with. Whatever one with it, and live off the meager resources it their shape, the Hireas all have a gland at has to offer. They can find shelter in the small- als produced by the deep-sea organisms — weapons to the base of the brain that secretes a powerful launch a viable counter-attack against the Gords. neurological poison. This is also the source of However, the Hireas’ military strength has been greatly the suave, heady fragrance they exude. weakened since the involvement of Metabaron Aghnar, recruited by the Gords. But the fish people have not given HABITAT in yet and are striving, in the greatest secrecy, to convince The Hireas’ habitat is one that is natural to amphib- the incredibly powerful giant creatures of the abysses to ians: water. However, submarine towns are also dotted fight for their cause. about here and there over the seabed. Since the Hireas Chapter 8 • 96 are totally amphibian, these constructions serve merely THE SUUSKINS as physical symbols of the strict social hierarchy. The high- The Suuskins, more commonly known as the ranking dignitaries live in hollow rock structures in which “Odoraters,” are border people who live in the midway they nonchalantly float safe from the public gaze. Most of belt that separates the desert area from the sea area. These the other buildings house the huge administration, Hireas discreet and totally odorless Odoraters make huge profits troop training centers, and the famous “death beds.” from their trade with the Gords and the Hireas. They origi- PSYCHOLOGICAL PROFILE nally sold aromatic extracts, either subtly musky or to- Probably because of the fact that they produce eggs tally rank to order, since the concentration of smells is a hatched outside of the body, the Hireas are an extremely determining social criteria among both opposed peoples. social and class-ridden people. Individuals bow down to They then expanded their product range to all types of the all-important group. Their artistic nature has so been weapons with the exception of mass destruction weapons perverted over time that a perfectly synchronized chore- that could annihilate the planet. Their cynical attitude ography of Hireas-Torpedoes in combat dress is now con- probably says more about what they are really up to than sidered to be the epitome of beauty. It goes without say- their apparently ordinary wheeling and dealing. The ing that their hatred of the Gords is a strong element of Odoraters are also the only inhabitants of Sec-Hum with social cohesion. the means to leave the planet and travel through space. PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS RESOURCES AND POWERS The Hireas are invincible in the water. However, they The tiny, slender, almost fragile Odoraters have the sly also have some amphibian units capable of evolving on humanoid look of those who can manage to slip by any- dry land. In addition to their natural combat skills, they where unnoticed. Yet despite their frail appearance, they have acquired — in return for the extremely rare miner- are as solid as rock. Harshly trained from birth, the Odoraters are capable of bounding incredible distances in one leap. The skin covering their bodies is one big sensor that absorbs all energy and airborne material, such as light rays, water molecules in the air, and various other particles. The skin then transforms them into dopamine compounds that can be directly assimilated by their organism. The wonders they are capable of do not stop there; their command of chemical phenomena defies comprehension. Certain physical details set them apart from humans: They have only four fingers and four toes, and their bodies are almost totally hairless. Although they have hair on their heads, they are beardless and have no eyebrows or eyelashes.

HABITAT The Odoraters have built a massive network of underground tunnels and above ground buildings in the neutral belt. This vast swamp some hundred kilometers wide is bordered on one side by a luxurious mangrove and on the other by sparse short grass, forming a belt around the planet that cuts across the frozen and hot regions. The buildings on the surface are modest and totally in keeping with the Odoraters’ self-styled image. Underground, however, their constructions reflect their real nature — invasion machines with an incredibly sophisticated arsenal.

PSYCHOLOGICAL PROFILE Far from being neutral and kindly go-betweens in the quarrel between the Gords and the Hireas, the Odoraters are delighted about their merciless battle. Their big hope is to see them destroy one another so that they can once again and-sand extra-terrestrials and the only place 97 • Aliens where they can live, is right in the middle of a tellu- ric knot where this energy ebbs and flows like a cosmic tide. Despite its immersion in the humid currents from Per-Beod that constantly sweep over the planet, Akuaridh is a total desert containing nothing more than mineral flora made up of innumerable varieties of rocks. Water is totally nonexistent and is excluded and banned in all its forms. No plants can grow on the planet, and although no one has ever attempted to set up the technological means for artificial water, it is clear that even artificial water tends to disappear from Akuaridh’s surface. Yet the Akuas are well acquainted with the concept of water since they believe that space is a huge ocean. They profoundly believe in their minds, altered by the singular nature of their homeworld and creation, that their planet is a mineral island in the all-encompassing sea of space. Their entire culture is based on this deep-seated belief in the Mother Ocean. Convinced of the existence of water, but unable to get near it, get hold of it, or taste it, the Akuas see space as a supreme divinity. Their mental picture of it is as a living entity with a superior mind, to which they owe their life, knowledge, and survival. Everyday Akua life is based on this extremely particular relationship with water and space. These relatively well- reign over a world they used to totally control. They have developed creatures combine their craftwork expertise with agreed with the force that inhabits Sec-Hum not to use their a remarkable artis- fabulous powers and to cultivate modesty and patience un- tic sensitivity and a til they are strong enough to rise up. They are good pre- surprising societal Alien Business tenders. They are tough and hostile inside, and their feeling awareness to form Since the Empire’s official of superiority is equaled only by their determination. a people isolated trade is in the hands of the from virtually all RESOURCES AND POWERS Church of Industrial Saints’ outside influences. Merchants’ Guild and the The Odoraters are the owners of a colossal arsenal. In Water worship is the depths of their secret galleries, they have tucked away Ekonomat merchants — two more than a cult. It of the Four Pillars of the Em- a tremendous stock of the most sophisticated weapons is such a funda- available from the arms-dealing Maganats. In addition to pire the least inclined to have mental pillar of anything to do with non-hu- this more classic equipment, they are in contact with a Akua life that the supra-universal entity, Podrih-Do, the guardian of the mans — the alien races find it social structure very difficult to penetrate the Puerko gateway, one of the six secret gateways in the naturally incorpo- Human Universe. From time to time, Podrih-Do divulges usual trade channels. Fortu- rates each nately, the rebel factions — a secret to them, and the Odoraters advance one more individual’s rela- step on the road to power. pirates, independent merce- tionship to space naries, and even certain Co- and its secrets. The THE AKUAS lonial planets — are not hierarchy is hence averse to doing business with As goods transporters and trade have replaced human defined by their these intergalactic trade out- expeditions to discover unknown worlds, so space has level of conscious- casts since they can force them gradually lost its mysterious appeal and has become merely ness, and they rec- to accept tough terms and a usable and exploitable “dimension,” like a new road ognize and respect prices. The black market is linking the outermost bounds of the universe. Rare are one another based consequently full of exotic those who know about the wonders, forces, and cosmic on their relation- exports direct from alien entities at work in this infinite space. Few people are aware ship with the worlds, and staggering quan- of the energy currents that cross it from the six gateways Mother Ocean. tities of stolen goods — in- and influence the evolution of the races more profoundly If the Akua cluding weapons and tech- than all the Techno-Techno inventions put together. So lifestyle were com- nologies — find their way to few have ever heard of the Akuas. pared with a con- planets they should never Born of a remarkable paradox, these fossilized creatures ventional religious have landed on. were created by the passing of the dry and humid energy structure, all the flow from Per-Beod. Akuaridh, home planet to these bone- inhabitants of Akuaridh would be followers. All Akuas are convinced that they are intimately linked with the ocean that is space and, as if this is proved by their very existence, uphold the beliefs and perpetuate the rites of their fellow creatures. The creatures involved in organizing ceremonies such as the Netting Dance could then be considered to be initiates, since they have an in-depth knowledge of the close link among their planet, their evo-

Chapter 8 • 98 lution, and the Mother Ocean. The initiates can feel the tidal flows, interpret certain signs, teach the youngest, and actively participate in discussions on the strengths of certain mental powers gained from their faith. Last but not least come the priests, the oldest and most mystical Akuas. They are considered to be the Mother Ocean’s emissaries and prophets of its will. They have ten times the mental abilities of their fellow creatures, and their powers influence both mineral matter and the energy currents themselves. The Akuas believe that the cosmic flows are tides and that passing spaceships and explorers are inhabitants of this infinite sea. The Netting Ceremony — a firm tradition with the Akuas dating back dozens of generations — stems from this extraordinary relationship with the Mother Ocean. The Akuas assemble in the center of sand lakes dotted all over Akuaridh. The priests then put the followers and initiates into a deep mystical trance through which they enter into contact with the Mother Ocean. In addition to producing a mind-warped vision of space, the HABITAT Akuas use this ritual to influence the humid current and Most Akua dwellings are underground caves dug into provoke disturbances that pan out through the confines the mountainside or the rocky soil. There is no need for of space like a ripple effect. The Akuas see these waves as the concepts of towns and villages since the Akuas sys- nets they can use to “fish” nearby vessels. The “nets” tematically gather together in well-balanced numbers of create magnetic disturbances, computer and equipment priests, initiates and followers. Each city has three priests, problems, voices, visions, sudden desires, and mystical oc- twenty-one initiates, and some hundred followers. The currences experienced by conscious individuals. number of followers may be one or two individuals over Many electromagnetic phenomena reported around or under the hundred, but rarely more or less. Akuaridh can be traced back to the Netting Ceremonies, Their dwellings have a set structure, like an empty snail’s but hardly anyone knows why expeditions disappear in shell. The priests live in the center of the rocky maze, and this particular area. They will continue to be in the dark the initiates and followers live at regular intervals in the until they discover what the Akuas’ irresistible fascina- other decorated nooks and crannies. Sculptures are very tion with water impels them to do: devour everything that important in this entirely mineral environment, and the it contains. status and personality of each Akua are stamped on his dwelling’s ornaments, decor, and furnishings. PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS The Akuas are humanoids, slighty smaller in size than PSYCHOLOGICAL PROFILE a man. They have no organs and a fishlike skeleton. They Although the Akuas are united by their faith in the are two-legged with two prehensile hands, which means Mother Ocean, they are independent in that they develop that they can walk and do most of the things that humans their own personalities, reactions and personal motiva- can do — with the exception of reproduction. The Akuas tions — even though they are always driven by a given have no concept of gender. They are born in the sand like interpretation of their relationship with space and water. fossils and awake under the influence of the cosmic tides. They are peaceful by nature with little experience of con- Their bone structure is incredibly resistant, and their flict. They therefore attach a great deal of importance to lack of vital organs makes them formidable adversaries social cohesion and run their society, as far as the outside in single combat. However, they drop like flies under fire eye can see, like a beehive. Individuality exists, but not from weapons of mass destruction and area effects . They to any great extent. Each Akua lives his life in relation to cannot speak, but communicate with one another by te- the others and takes part in the water rites without try- lepathy and express their emotions through a series of ing to assert any of his own personal ideas, since this jaw-grinding actions. people’s faith is underpinned by their very nature and nobody would ever question it. The Akuas are naturally curious and mystical. They are fascinated by the treasures provided them by the zone in a lightning and particularly devastating 99 • Aliens Mother Ocean and interpret and analyze every sign and attack. In next to no time, all that was left of the event to suit their beliefs. For example, the arrival of a main planet was an asteroid called Mnemos by the spaceship in their planet’s vicinity is seen as a manifesta- mandated Mentreks, and everyone thought that life had tion of the Mother Ocean, a sign sent to incite a reaction. been wiped out forever. The priests hasten to interpret this sign by leading the It wasn’t until the tragic meeting between a Terra 877 Akuas to the sand lakes to commence the rituals. inhabitant and a Mnemos “envoy” that anyone realized, after long and fastidious crosschecks, that the Mentrek RESOURCES AND POWERS report was not altogether accurate. Although all life was The absence of water on Akuaridh deprives the extrater- ostensibly extinct, the asteroid had undergone an unfore- restrials of all plant and animal life. There is no food on the seeable change and, like the afterlife observed with the planet. However, their incredible talent for mineral arts and construction of the Endocities by the Techno-Technos, had crafts is such that they can make exceptionally beautiful developed a new and most particular life form. The aster- and resistant objects, ornaments, armor, and weapons of all oid had become a planet… a living planet. kinds. Their distinctive artistic gift makes the beauty of their The awakening of Mnemos is not the only case of its sculptures unforgettable. Yet to date, there is no trade in kind in the universe, but it happened so suddenly that the them since Akuaridh has only just been discovered, lost as asteroid found itself not only with life, but also with an it was in the cosmic flow from Per-Beod. intuitive awareness of its own makeup. The newborn It was only a recent change in the course of the energy Mnemos already knew for certain that it could only sur- current, placing Akuaridh under the undertow’s cosmic vive and exist at the very best as a fragment of afterlife swell, that finally proved the existence of these mineral drifting in the stellar vacuum. This fatalism explains both creatures. Over the last ten years, the Akuas have en- the planet’s total absence of life with its putrid marshes tered a new era and now want to expand through the and twisted roots and the appearance of phenomena now universe. They secretly hope to be carried though the known as “Mnemonicians.” space-ocean like shells, confident that they will eventu- Born of a dying star’s despair, the Mnemonicians are not ally return to their home planet. so much creatures as life forms, manifestations of Mnemos’ The Akuas’ mental powers are similar to certain other vital essence and its refusal to die even though it knew full mutants’ powers. Associated with the liquid element and well it was alone and its destruction inevitable. Unable to its exact opposite, these powers give the creatures the abil- accept that it was incapable of making or giving birth to ity to sense the presence of water and anything sustainable, the star’s con- influence the very consciousness of it sciousness just let these phenomena with varying levels of intensity. This The Galactic “be,” like the twisted and uncontrollable power invested in them by the cosmic Ambassadors vegetation that covers the surface of currents cannot only move, heat, boil, Mnemos. Nostalgic Mnemos has despite After a long phase of ga- and evaporate water, it can also be used itself given birth to retrospective beings lactic expansion sown with by the priests to cause the total and whose only way of existing and surviv- conquests, territorial wars, instant disappearance of all water mol- ing was to become an integral part of and brutal protests from ecules, replacing them with a vacuum. this backwards march. Much like cha- worlds that are still free from The inversion of liquid flows such as meleons camouflage themselves by tak- all economic adherence, the blood is just one of the countless ways ing on the appearance of their environ- Empire entered into an era in which the Akuas can use their pow- ment, so the Mnemonicians assimilate of relative stability. Thus, it ers against any human foes they may and become… memories. has adopted the appearance come up against. of a diplomatic corps in PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS charge of relations with in- THE MNEMONICIANS When they first appear, rather than habited planets, either lo- when they are “born,” the Created by an exploding major planet, cated within the borders of Mnemonicians have no tangible or Mnemos drifts through space like an the Endo-fringe or beyond even describable physical form. At asteroid dotted with marshes and dying the Empire’s frontiers. A bit most, they are energy currents, waves, vegetation. This dark and rotting isle has of reflection and observation flows of existence that aimlessly wan- been plunged into eternal darkness since allows one to realize that der across the body of their Father- losing its nearby star. It harbors no ani- these ambassadors really Mother star until they find and absorb mal life, not even bacteria. Mnemos only serve in preparing fu- a memory. They are incapable of com- bears the name of the Mentrek in charge ture treaties and economic municating either among themselves or of wrapping up the Imperial observa- accords with the Empire… with any other form of consciousness. tions file for this backwater. After long and in clearing the ground They have no personal awareness un- years of study and unsuccessful nego- before the dispatching of an til they have materialized. They neither tiations with a particularly hostile race Endoguard squad. of extraterrestrials, the Endoguard was feel, understand, nor perceive any of dispatched to the area and pacified the the information that comes their way. HABITAT ALIEN DESCRIPTION GUIDE The notion of habitat is irrelevant on this Roll the designated number of dice (do not include the planet. The Mnemonicians just aimlessly wan- Wild Die) after the characteristic to randomly generate a der across Mnemos’ surface, and the star bears new alien. If the result is “other,” then you may either no other life form. Yet it is hard to believe there come up with your own, or roll twice more (rerolling if is no life when you see the incredible swampy the result comes up “other”) and combine the two. Only jungle with its outsized trees and putrid lakes roll in the Powers categories if the Powers Physical Char- Chapter 8 • 100 full of black water. The water and the absence of acteristics indicates for you to do that. The game master any biological toxins make the atmosphere determines the exact effects of each power. breathable. Mnemos has everything it needs to make it a viable star, at least for anyone who can ORIGIN AND ENVIRONMENT put up with the death-like ambience. Origin (2D6): ectoplasmic, elementary (water, fire, gas, PSYCHOLOGICAL PROFILE mineral), avian, insectoid, mammal, reptilian, ichthyoid, technological, plant, magic, other. The Mnemonicians only become aware once Native Environment (2D6): ethereal, corrosive (mer- they are incarnated and materialize in the form of cury, magma, acid, etc.), gaseous/air, aquatic, terrestrial, a memory. Although some of them become inani- space, extradimensional (parallel dimensions, dreams, mate, but conscious, objects, the vast majority of nightmares, time, interspace, etc.), other. the lifeforms look and think like conscious, intelligent beings. They seem to prefer for those who PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS have the use of speech and any other form of com- Form (2D6): ovoid, cubic, slender, flat, animal (avian, munication. Once materialized, the Mnemonicians reptilian, fish, etc.), humanoid, gaseous, skeletal, liquid, really “become” the object of the memory that they ethereal, other. have intercepted and copy its nature, motivations, Limbs (1D6): arms/legs, tentacles, fins, claws, pincers, desires, fears, and so on. other. RESOURCES AND POWERS Additional Limbs (1D6): wings, tail, heads, extra limbs, other. The Mnemonicians use their amazing replicat- Skin: feathers, hide, shell, quills, hair, flesh, mineral, ing skills to echo a memory, take on its form, and none, other. be-come its image. Whenever an explorer sleeps on Distinctive Characteristic (1D6): odor, aura, color, un- the planet Mnemos, sleep often weakens their men- usual appearance (magnificent, monstrous, etc.), pecular tal defenses, and increased psychic activity brings mannerism, other. up more memories, providing a strong chance that Power (1D6): life, movement, mental, perception, physi- a Mnemonician will be made by the retrograde cal, none. spiritual waves. In which case, an exact replica of the man or woman in the memory will be created. POWERS Replication takes just a few hours. The Life (1D6): short-lived, limited regeneration, long, ex- Mnemonician first takes on the appearance of a treme, immortality, other. silhouette of pure energy, as if it were made of so- Mental Power (1D6): magic, psionic, element control, lidified mercury, before adding in endlessly finer spirit contact, temporal control, other. and more accurate details that eventually transform Movement (1D6): flight, teletransportation, swimming, it into the being in the memory. Once made, the jumping interdimensional flight, other. Mnemonician no longer exists, but the “copied” Perception (1D6): infrared, radar, sonar, X-rays, subject now has a spitting image. extrasensorial, other. It’s not hard to imagine how this incredible fac- Physical Power (1D6): invisibility, immateriality, mim- ulty could be put to a military and political use in icry, polymorphism, chemical excretion, other. espionage, war and diplomatic alliances. Fortu- nately, although the existence of Mnemos and the OTHER CONSIDERATIONS Mnemonicians is known, few seem to have yet Although there are too many variations for which to made the connection between the planet and its give tables, here are some other characteristics you should sole creatures. Yet the fact that the Mnemonicians consider describing for your new alien: normal behavior; are made of pure energy means that they are not average lifespan; average height (adults, children); aver- confined to their home star. They can sneak age weight (adults, children); organs (eyes, nose, mouth, Mnemos roots into the spaceship reactors, holds, snout, hands, hoofs, tongue, vital points, heart, etc.); and cabins of explorers and travelers passing movement; key cultural features (housing, eating prefer- through the sidereal vacuum. ences, social preferences, etc.). M U T A N T S

Far from the aristocratic palaces and Prez-cloning cen- the repercussions of pan-Techno terraform-ation, the in- ters, there lives an underclass excluded by an appearance- fluence of science on the body, and cosmic energies. based society and shunned by the cult of pure blood and The first mutagenic force is found in the universe’s noble lineage. Mutants born either by accident or from a fundamental energies. These uncontrollable currents, bungled genetic experiment are now a common sight on long invisible to the mortal eye and beyond mortal com- the streets of the Endocities. Although still technically “hu- prehension, have been causing species and minds to man” from various physical and mental points of view, the evolve since the beginning of time. They are behind not representatives of these new species who appeared with the only a whole host of mutations, but also the birth of first pan-Techno terraformation sites are rarely seen as such. races now called“alien.” Given their ability to create a They only survive because they are more or less tolerated. multigene-rational leap in Darwin’s theory of evolution, it is easy to understand how these vital forces can alter SOURCES OF MUTATION the genetic characteristics of a race on a smaller scale. More recently, the development of physical, chemical, HUMANITY AND MUTATION and genetic sciences led to the appearance of a new form “Mutants” are defined as all living beings whose ge- of mutation caused by radiation, exposure to artificial netic code has been changed, producing characteristics mutagenic agents, and programmed genetic modifications. and faculties unseen or less pronounced among the other This opened the door for a whole new brand of physi- represent-atives of their species. So although a man with ological changes. This explains how, when the initial ge- four arms is obviously a mutant, these changes can apply netic experiments were carried out, “mutation” was first to particularities already found in a species, such as the really defined as an external influence on a living being’s growth of long soft hair all over the body and the spec- mind and body. The effects of building Endocities on in- tacular development of physical and mental attributes such habited planets are a perfect example of this. However, as ESP, heat resistance, and skin pigmentation. the chemical substances, radiation effects, and genetic It is rare to find mutants with no physical symptoms of modifications instigated by the Techno-Technos and the their mutation. Although many of these genetic changes Shabda-Ouds also come under this heading of “techno- are also mental and psychological, the body nearly al- logical” mutations. ways suffers an assault that forces it to react by develop- This does mean that a person can be outwardly human ing growths, deformities, and conspicuous abnormalities. while, inwardly, a designer being with abilities far beyond This results in the mutants being stared at and judged by mortal possibilities. Nonetheless, remember the social their fellow citizens to the point of exclusion and segrega- pressures against mutants among those in power. Once a tion, which has prompted them to form mutant power person exposes these powers by using them, he is a mu- movements and abnormality cults. So although having tant waiting to be outed. In the universe of the Metabarons, physical and mental mutations can quickly make you an no closet, however deep, is proof against the data intru- outcast from human society, not having any mutations sions of those wishing to learn secrets. The knowledge can just as easily exclude the human judged “impure” can be expensive to gain, but the pillars of society have because of his total lack of genetic development. vast resources and all the time in the world. In the extreme universe of the Metabarons, mutations THE PAN-TECHNO INFLUENCE have virtually infinite manifestations and effects for both mutants and their contemporaries. These physical and THE TERRAFORMATION PROCESS mental changes range from extra and wasted limbs to the The Techno-Techno robots can complete their mind- most devastating mental powers. They can turn a human blowing terraformation work in just over one month, at into a real alien — a genetic anomaly totally out of phase the end of which the planet has been gutted and stripped with his environment, his lost nature… and his peers. of all vital substances and energy. So it’s not hard to imag- MUTAGENIC FACTORS ine the unbelievable violence of the process and its repercussions on the balance of life established and maintained To both mutants and men, the type of mutation is of- by millions of years of slow evolution. This violence is ten less important than its expression. However, a detailed glaring in the draining itself and the suffering inflicted on scientific study of this phenomenon reveals the extent to the star, with its raped elements and denigrated energies which the source of mutations — the famous “mutagenic sucked up and subjugated to the will of technology and factors” — are key to how they are physically expressed the demands of humankind. and affect the mutant’s organism and psychology. Once the inhabitants of the Endocities have settled in Although all the genetic mixing and matching that goes behind the brand new walls of their new prison, few real- on distorts even the most basic calculations, three major ize how their host planet has been ravaged. Further vio- sources of mutation have been identified that are capable of lence then sets in, fuelled by the Necro-Dream and forcing an organism to spontaneously change abnormally: humanity’s natural vices, and everyone seems oblivious who abandoned them to evolve on their own and have to the effects of their settlement there. Yet there now designed specialized robot units to hunt them down. are many manifestations of these unsuspected af- They are hounded from the darkest corner of each ter-effects. Top of the list are the mutants. Endocity and imprisoned. Yet still they manage to sur- Although all life is sucked up, bled dry, and merci- vive, grow, and band together under the leadership of lessly hunted down by the pan-Techno machinery right warrior-chiefs. There might be grounds for the fears of down to the planet’s core, every terraformed planet their return to the surface after all. has managed to hold onto a vital spark — an energy KNOCK-ON MUTATIONS that, like a memory drives revenge or forgiveness, be- The Crados stuck in the heart of the terraformed plan- Chapter 9 • 102 comes an irrepressible vestige, and spearheads the birth of new phenomena: the mutations. ets are not the only mutants around. The land development and vital energy absorption process creates an im- THE CRADOS balance that combined with industrial waste creates many The Crados are the chief living evidence of this unsus- mutagenic factors and just as many mutant species. These pected survival born of the life’s determination to “be” mutations due directly to the Techno-Technos’ influence and endure. These first-generation mutants haunt the on the planets are seen in varying degrees of change, trans- underground levels far below the machinery and the Acid formation and physiological, biological, organic and psy- Lake. The vast majority of the population believes the chological developments. Skin coloring, extra, missing Crados to be mere myth. Rare are those who know they and/or wasted limbs and organs, and diminished physical exist and believe in the Armageddon prophecy: the day and mental faculties are all examples of what a birth on when “the underworld will rise back up to the surface.” these terraformed planets can produce. Yet the Behind the Crados’ filthy, ugly mask forged by the atro- Magnarmada’s intervention does not explain everything. cious physical mutations caused by the toxic waste in the An incredible number of factors are involved in addition acid lake, they harbor a last fragment to the afterlife effect. However, the of humanity reminiscent of their sacri- very birth of the Endocities is in itself fice and true nature. It is a very sad se- Mutants in a more definite and unpredictable mu- cret. Although everyone believes that Human Society tagenic factor than any external in- they were born of the pollution gener- Even if the extra-terrestri- fluence. ated by the Endocities, the Crados are als incite an evident mistrust THE EVOLUTIONARY CYCLE no less than the first terraformation among humans, when all is workers abandoned on the planet and said and done, these inhab- You only need to glance at the his- imprisoned in the darkest depths of the itants of faraway planets still tory of the universe to realize that earth in a maze of caves hidden from remain relatively well ac- mutants were around well before the prying eyes. Hardly have they been cepted by the general popu- first Endocity was built. These mu- stripped of life, when the planets cho- lation. This however, is not tants, altered by a combination of cos- sen to host an Endocity find their first the case with the mutants. mic forces and radiation from tech- inhabitants sacrificed on the altar of se- Looked upon as the dregs of nological materials, or born of genetic crecy and its demands. society, classed even lower modification and crossbreeding in- It is not impossible to see a subtle than animals on the scale of compatible species, continue to be variation in the extent of Crado muta- value and consideration, the born and live outside the main center tion and organization in each Endocity, mutants live in recluse, are of Techno-Techno activity. but all of these “communities” suffer often hunted, and are gener- The description of the main mu- from the same physical and mental de- ally not recognized as human tagenic factors gives a general idea of formities. The Crados are slowly trans- beings with the exception of the possibilities. However, it is safe to formed from humans into humanoids by a few who share their every- assume that there are as many variet- the combined effect of radiation, mu- day life. For several decades ies and manifestations as there are tagenic outflows, and toxic waste from now, these pariahs of human sources of mutations. the Acid Lake that pumps the food and evolution have started to or- SIDE EFFECTS industrial waste it cannot handle from ganize themselves, through Much like cures are found as ill- the Endocities into the underground the means of illegal cults and caves. The Crados’ orange-hued, red and nesses and diseases appear, the ongo- common values in which ing specialization in drugs, treatments, brown-spotted skin and vague features they demand recognition of give them the repulsive look of spirit- preventive patches, vaccines and other their status and nature. medical care for the populations goes less mutants, unlike animal hybrids such These unauthorized religions as the man-dogs whose animal charac- hand in hand with a growing number are of course ruthlessly per- of side effects and unexpected muta- teristics give them a certain allure of secuted by the Techno- pride and nobility. tions. It must be said, however, that Technos and the Endocity the Techno-Technos are also capable Outcasts from a society they helped Hunchbacks. to build, the Crados are seen as a “nec- of using drugs to deliberately provoke essary nuisance” by the Techno-Technos these side effects. The disorders caused by this external action on the organism are manifold and often irreversible. They range from a rash and scaly skin through the loss of certain faculties ally increases the potential for transplants, 103 • Mutants and the spectacular development of others to major or- crossbreeding and molecular alterations tenfold. gan dysfunction, skeletal contraction and the complete The Techno-Technos and their erstwhile sisters — disruption of the immune system. the Shabda-Oud, still have the ability to encode, pro- The effects of these ingestions and treatments are so gram and alter any genetic sequence to give life to striking that they merit being put into their own muta- new species today. Yet they don’t even need to break tional category. However, they are similar to other mu- the Empire’s law against genetic engineering. You’d tagenic factors associated with the consumption of food have to be blind not to notice the fruits of their ter- products, chemical substances, synthetic drugs and so on. rible past experiments on street corners everywhere. With the exception of the prohibitively expensive quality By far the best examples of the Techno-Technos’ ge- products, the purchase of which is strictly regulated, most netic influence on life are the man/animal crossbreeds well chemical-based foodstuffs bear a risk of side effects due known among the Endocity inhabitants and valued by the to their poor quality, unsuitability to the organism and Hunchbacks for their raids. The pan-Techno laboratory excessively high chemical content, or due to the organism scientists designed these mix-and-match species with their itself reacting violently if it has already been affected by endlessly changeable physical and mental characteristics another mutagenic source. The mutational principle is so from the isolation of two species’ genes. Man-dogs, man- complex that the combined effects of medicine, narcotics, cats, man-sharks and man-snails are just a few examples of exposure to minute radiation and a long stay in the lower the possibilities for these genetically programmed mutants levels can create a new mutagenic factor when none of with their countless crossbreeds and hybrids. In addition to these four factors alone could have triggered the slightest their physical particularities, they all seem to possess ca- reaction in the organism. pacities associated with their animal nature. The man-dogs have a canine sense of smell and reflexes combined with RADIATION human consciousness and language. It’s not for nothing that Although the consequences of ingesting mutagenic or quite many of these mutants have joined the ranks of the pirates simply toxic substances seem obvious, the development of and mercenaries — not only to make the most of their physi- chemical sciences to power vehicles and ships, provide en- cal advantages, but also to hide from prying eyes and ergy and produce biological weapons has created infinite unrelentless hounding by the powers that be. sources of radiation with great mutagenic potential. When the batteries are flat and the weapons emptied and discarded COSMIC FORCES on the battlefield, the toxins remain in Beyond man’s grasp is a mutational contact with the oxygen capable of af- vector that is impossible to analyze ob- fecting all living organisms: animal, veg- Captian Kaïman jectively in its entirety. It has been influ- etable and mineral. Regarded as a veritable encing the evolution of life since the be- This irradiation affects more exter- living legend by the Empire’s ginning of time. Each of our universe’s nal appearances since the directly ex- inhabitants as well as his six Gateways is both source and trans- posed body generally suffers first-de- own men, who vow their mitter for a flow of bipolar energy gree mutations. Yet where the radiation boundless fidelity and admi- charged with an element and its exact is particularly strong and damaging, ration to him, the head of the opposite. This energy crosses space, di- mutations can reach deeper into the Shipwreckers owes part of vides, rebounds and alters when it comes body to affect the vital core, metabo- his reputation to his mutant into contact with other currents, trigger- lism and senses, instead of just attack- nature and the other to the ing marvels and mutations. The six flows ing the skin and external organs. history that goes with it. of energy from the Gateways are incom- The Crados are a perfect example of Originally from a noble fam- patible with one another, and naturally such prolonged exposure to toxic ily, this man upon whom all and instinctively seek to consume and fumes, making it easy to imagine the life had once smiled, was vic- annihilate each other. The planets sub- potential effects of voluntary and cal- tim of a terrible mutation merged in or crossed by one or more of culated exposure to provoke specific that gave him reptilian eyes, these currents are exposed to all sorts of mutations. a long serpent’s tail, and ex- influences, from mere climatic change to the severest mutations. Many races GENETICS traordinary physical abilities. defined by man as “extraterrestrial” are, Genetic engineering is now banned This in exchange for his happiness and the protection of from many points of view, mutant ver- in the Empire. Yet it is highly advanced sions of species that could once well have despite the fact that experiments have his loved ones. Detested and chased from his family, he been human… which gives a whole new dropped sharply since the golden age meaning to the term “humanoid extra- of the Techno-Technos and the Shabda- wanders today in space, motivated by a vengeance as terrestrial races.” Oud some ten thousand years ago. The currents from the Gateways Seen as a potential leap forward in cold as the blood that runs through his reptilian veins. travel through space like a cyclopean man’s evolution, this science with its wave — a hungry cosmic liquid tongue endless variety of applications has trig- that sweeps through worlds, engulfs gered a race for knowledge that annu- and life to the mutation of his people, and the Berg’s ex- cradles of life and recedes like a tide, taking pansion into vulnerable regions of the human Empire. with it the mercilessly devoured fragments of life. It is said, that the arrival of the Berg people in the Endo- The ebb of these waves is charged with an energy fringe will sound the irremediable destruction of the Em- opposite to the flow — just like night follows day in pire. For their technology is so particular, founded on the cycle of time. This ebb moves in the opposite di- secrets unknown to humans, that its effect on the Techno- rection towards the Gateway, creating a depression and Technos protection shields would be similar to the dev- devastating waves of turbulence capable of provoking astating outcome of an explosive used against medieval more appalling mutations than any technology. Muta- armor.

Chapter 9 • 104 tion, in this case, is seen in terms of degeneration and the negative influence on an organism. The passing of SPECIAL ABILITIES the flows creates an upheaval that, although capable of Here are game mechanics for a few of the more popu- awaking the spirit and creating sensitivity undreamed of lar special abilities found in mutants and aliens. by the cosmic energies, locks the body in an evolution Elemental Control: The alien or mutant can manipulate that nothing, not even the all-powerful pan-Techno tech- one type of element, such as earth, air, fire, or water. The nology, can curb or alter. These influences are called exact nature of the control should be determined prior to “paleo-salmonesque forces.” using the character. Examples of effects include turning a light breeze into a gust, causing small tremors, turning HE ERGS AN NUSUAL ACE T B , U R water to steam or ice, or affecting preexisting fires. Formerly parrots originating from Artrilys, Immateriality: The alien can change himself the Bergs are the fruit of a long and complex into a gaseous form for up to one minute. evolutionary process. Considered to be extra- During that time, +7D is added to Strength terrestrials, as they are natives of a faraway for the purpose of resisting damage— planet, these uncommon creatures are full- but his movement rate is halved. He fledged mutants, taking into account their cannot move through solid objects but evolution, their method of reproduction, can go through small openings (like and the cyclic laws which govern their keyholes). He cannot carry anything changes in body and essence. The Bergs with him or perform actions that re- change their physical form with the “ quire physical activity or speaking. Proto-Queen” Barbarrah’s reproduction Enhanced Sense: One of the alien’s cycle. About every fifteen standard years, five senses is heightened to abnormal she lays the eggs for 78 billion Bergs. Every levels. Any relevant skill totals are in- 24,000 years, during what these exceptional creased by 1D. mutants call their “golden age,” the galactic Infravision/Ultravision: The alien can entity which is their queen generates and forms see in the dark, either through the use of a new, evolved race, without any reference to the old one. infravision or ultravision. Infravision allows the alien to see Their physical appearance is radically different, just as changes in heat, while ultravision gives the alien a straight their manner of communication and their customs. +2 to all Perception checks in the dark because she makes At every egg laying season, the Proto-Queen Barbarrah the most of light or sees in some other such way. gives birth to billions of clones from her sole inseminator, Invisibility: The alien is transparent (+3D to all hide a Berg judged worthy of ensuring the perpetuity of his rolls). This also means that under most circumstances, race during the Great Quinquennial Festival — where others may not make Perception attempts to detect the combats and festivities take place to designate the “re- alien. Perception rolls may only be made if the agent or producer.” Taking into account that a Berg year consists cast member has a reason to believe the invisible alien is of 825 standard days, the dazzling evolutionary changes there—and then only at great difficulty. that occur among the Bergs are considered outstanding in Limited Regeneration: The alien gains back one body their own eyes as well as in the eyes of outside observers, point per round. Aliens who can grow back lost body who must possess a vast knowledge of evolution in order parts are also classified under this special ability. to distinguish a new mutation of the Berg race from a still Natural Armor: The alien’s skin is very tough, he has some unknown ordinary extraterrestrial race. sort of shell or exoskeleton, or some resistance to injury. The Today, after numerous mutations, the Bergs live in com- alien receives +1D to Strength rolls to resist damage. plete autocratic rule in the Atrilii three sun system, under Natural Weaponry: The alien has some sort of natural apparently peaceful and relatively civilized circumstances. weapon—claws, pincers, and the like—that adds +2D to On their Mother Planet, Ourgar-Gan, Barbarrah the her Strength when determining her damage when attack- Matrix resides in the depths of Ouror the Ant’s Nest, and ing with that weapon. It is possible to have more than lives ruled by the rhythm of her reproduction cycles and one natural weapon. mystic dreams. According to space voyagers and the few Teletransportation: The alien can teleport up to ten mentreks well versed in Berg study, the Proto-Queen is meters away. He must be able to see his destination clearly. waiting for the Advent of two prophecies: the coming of In combat, this takes one round, and he can only take the next Golden Age Inseminator, who will give shape with him what he has on his body at the time. T H E M A J O R F O R C E S

The universe is known as the immeasurable dimension in direct contact with another parallele-piped form, as where time and space, as conceived within the limitations the universes are schematically regrouped and stacked of our minds, is a minuscule piece of an insanely gigantic like a wall of bricks. Knowing that the universes are baroque puzzle. The universe is crossed in every direction tremendous masses of energy in a state of constant ex- by ultra-powerful force currents, prechaotic energies, and pansion, it is absolutely vital to have a valve present, active waves able to displace galaxies in a moment’s time. eliminating the risk of the whole smashing itself into Of course, these flux do not permanently reveal them- pieces. And so, if by natural coincidence, a quirk of the selves in the material dimension, but are present in the elements, or an example of the Creator of Creators’ latent state, and those who know how to master them are cautious planning, passages have been provided in each able to draw from a source so wonderful that it inevita- of the six faces of every universe, and their task is to bly appears to be magic. regulate the great energy currents that continuously cut Discovering the origin of all these forces is a task that across space. would drive even the greatest of the rationalist wizards These passages or “doors” shouldn’t be carelessly left mad. The forces are related to the very substance of the open, for each universe risks losing its identity by becom- universe, the first and last mystery, and some are even ing incorporated into a universal conglomeration that is remnants of what there was before. Nevertheless, parts constantly growing more immense. The six doors are of them have been clearly identified. The way they work therefore entrusted to the vigilance of six custodians, who in this universe is understood, as well how they are in- carefully watch that their mission of regulation is well voked and by whom. This information is only known by executed. Finally, so as to avoid the doors’ attracting the a few rare initiates, the force’s disciples who most often curiosity of the crowds, they blend into their surround- ignore and indeed deny the existence of other immanent ings and are even fashioned on a level of reality that eludes powers in the universe. those beings limited solely to a material reality. THE SIX DOORS AND THEIR GUARDIANS THE PRINCIPLE OF CONTRARY FORCES Titanic space, parallele piped in form, resembles a gi- Each door is associated with a specific force, related to ant brick. The universe thus presents six sides, which make the nature of the two universes it links. At the point of up its exterior boundaries. Each side is like an impervi- contact, the two universes present characteristics that are ous membrane which hermetically seals our universe and strictly opposite, so that their junction is ensured by a prevents its material and immaterial fluids from flowing form of polarity that cannot be broken. Strictly speaking, over into neighboring universes. Each of the six sides are it is not a question of a physical threshold that someone passed on from generation to genera- could cross with his two feet, About Major tion within each of the Castakas, trans- but rather a conceptual pas- Energies mitted with the metabaronic powers at sage, the image of a breach be- the end of the final combat between By nature, the forces and tween two dimensions. This hazy father and son. Today, the current Met- energies present in the uni- and labyrinthine zone is a mortal abaron carries Gangez within him, and verse can be beneficial, trap for those who thoughtlessly he is the Mardador custodian. But the harmful, or uncontrollable, risk it. One can indefinitely wander Metabaron is not a kindly guardian, that is to say disconnected there, stuck forever between two di- and the door is reserved for his per- from all good or bad will. mensions and two realities. In fact, sonal use. Even if epiphyte, the won-

Chapter 10 • 106 The acquisition of an energy only the guardians have the keys and drous substance associated with the implies the observation of know-how to pass from one universe door, has long since been sold to the three imperative conditions: to the next. More than Cerberus, they Empire, the Metabaron does not need 1) One must have the will are rather like the impartial Charon, such an artifact to draw directly from to acquire this energy. With free servants of the universes, from the source of legendary powers he pos- the exception of rare ex- which they draw their strength. And al- sesses within himself. Besides, the sup- amples, the forces ignore though their force is taken from this plies of natural epiphyte have been those who ignore them. source, they are not enslaved to it. exhausted, with the exception of the 2) A journey must be un- Judged by human considerations, rare reserves held respectively by the dertaken — an interior voy- their powers are enormous, colossal, four pillars of the Empire. Synthetic age or expedition, strictly almost divine. But differing from the epiphyte made from bikramen does no speaking — to understand gods, they have no interest in the des- better than mimic the antigravitational that one can obtain it. tiny of people and things. Neither are properties of the natural substance. It 3) One must accept the they immortal. To be more precise, they possesses none of the other miraculous changes that the energy in- can exist only as the physical incarna- properties associated with natural epi- evitably produces once ab- tion of a mortal being. phyte. As the Mardador guardian, the sorbed. In this almost mystic configuration, Metabaron has to himself access to the guardians fulfill their role accord- these wonders. ing to the dictates of their goodwill. TEMPER-UT Some quite readily lend a sympathetic ear to lesser creatures, such as humans, whereas, others watch that they Elsewhere in the universe, there exists a frontier be- remain hidden with the greatest care, maintaining a veil tween the hot confines and the freezing limits. The pas- of secrecy over the door they guard. sage from one to the other is the Temper-Ut door, guarded by Uakl. To this day, the guardian’s physical metamor- THE DOORS phosis has not been located, nor has the point of access to Well beyond the outer limits of the universe is the con- the door been found. The guardian Uakl is a one-eyed fines zone where density reaches an absolute summit, and tortoise, completely made up of mercury. He lives on a the smallest hydrogen atom represents such a consider- metallic asteroid with a constant temperature close to ab- able mass that elsewhere, its weight alone would be enough solute zero. The cold of this glacial environment serves to to wipe out an entire planet. On the human scale, the preserve the cohesion of his organism, for if he were ex- zone’s recorded pressure and duress are immeasurably posed to heat, he would melt like snow in the sun. Uakl excessive. Moreover, apart from a few rather strange crea- possesses the secret to temperature modification. He is tures such as the pachydermic jellyfish, no sign of life can wholly composed of mercury which concentrates his be found. The rare exploratory missions that have made power, permitting him to act upon atmosphere and cli- it to the zone have never returned. Yet, very near, behind mate. A drop of mercury taken from his body enables one a fine and perfectly impermeable membrane, other con- to acquire a part of his power. The greater the quantity of fines open out where the density is so slight that even mercury, the greater the concentration of power. How- celestial bodies have no weight. This thin membrane con- ever, Uakl’s conscious and essence, which give access to a stitutes an absolutely impassable boundary. dimension as great as a universe, are fully contained in his only eye. Uakl is mortal, but to destroy him, his eye MARDADOR must be destroyed. If Uakl’s body came to be annihilated, In our universe, there is a door called Mardador, which his soul could find refuge in the spirit of a consenting places two antagonistic zones in contact with one another. being with whom it would be in complete accord. Physically, Mardador cannot be found anywhere; search- LUCIOH ing for it is a futile quest. In fact, it only exists on a level of reality that can solely be invoked by its guardian. The Between the limits of shadow and light, Lucioh is the bird Gangez was this guardian, but his flesh and blood door which leads from obscurity to light. Ophidat, the body have been destroyed. Now, he lives in the soul of guardian, is a triple reptilian entity made up of three ser- the Metabaron, with whom he is one. Starting from the pents of bronze, silver and gold with scales that are alter- very first fusion with Dayal de Castaka, Gangez has been natively dark and bright. They are called the three Bodras. In addition to their mastery of light and darkness, Ophidat possesses the secret to a wonderfully powerful technol- Ekonomat. Since that time, the Ekonomat pos- 107 • The Major Forces ogy. Ophidat has been associated with the Techno-Techno sesses the secret to water. Bemb’s spirit was col- order for a long time. He resides under the Techno-Temple lected by one of the dignitaries, a member of the altar on Central Planet. The Church of the Industrial Saints Midastik Chamber, whose identity is unknown. draws its technological power from this exceptional af- CHONCH finity. Yet, no dignitary of the order, not even the supreme Techno-Pope, has ever entered into communion with the In the borders, there is a zone that is completely in triple entity; and despite its power, the Techno-Techno relief, jutting out full of dips and bumps. The most order is far from holding all of the power that the Ophidat breathtaking cliffs give way to the highest summits, has to offer. In fact, the Church of the Industrial Saints is riddled with needles that stand out like the points of a in reality an instrument in the hands of a dark force, con- diamond. Through the door named Chonch, one passes cealed in the shadows. into a smooth universe where the polished surfaces are like immense mirrors, soft and satiny. Ruante is the guard- PER-BEOD ian of this door. To this day, she has not been discovered, The door that leads from the dry borders of our uni- frozen in a gangue of bluish ice where she has been kept verse to the liquid confines of one of the six neighboring for billions of standard years. Set in her mineral sepul- universes is called Per-Beod. It is placed under the close cher, she roams in space carried by the stellar winds, watch of the guardian Bemb, a giant oyster who possesses plunged into a dream without end. She has the features of the absolute source, the secret mastery of water. A long a young humanoid woman, immobile as a stone statue. time ago, at the dawn of the Ekonomat’s legendary his- Her hands, crossed over her breast, hold a small object — tory, the planet which became Neo-Knox was dying un- a little paintbrush in orikarb — which can modify at will der the scalding rays of its sun. And that is precisely when the geographical relief of any world. But the Ruante’s a dying Bemb communicated his secrets to the first sign powers have many other aspects, because she can act upon of intelligent life that appeared to him. It turned out to be the inert matter of the two universes. Her conscious is a delegation of wandering fugitives, looking for a prom- asleep, but a part of her spirit remains in an alert state, ised land, a group of those who where going to build the ready to intervene when necessary.

Doors and Their Guardians Our universe is comprised of six doors, each placed under the care and protection of a guardian. A powerful secret, related to the nature of the two universes they link, is associated with each door. A substance, creature, or object capable of carrying out a concrete action in the material universe is also associated with each power. Door Guardian Power Substance, creature, or object of power Mardador Gangez Mastery of gravity Epiphyte, the fantastic, magical substance which voids gravity. Overexploited by the Empire, it is now practically nonexistent in its natural form.

Temper-Ut Uakl Temperature modification A tortoise made of mercury allowing it to act and alteration upon climate, seasons, and temperature in all of its forms.

Lucioh Ophidat Control of light The Ophidat’s scales, renewed at every sloughing. and darkness Engraved on their scales are the mysteries of technological power.

Per-Beod Bemb Mastery of hydrogen, The Kist, a bladder containing an absolute and oxygen, and water permanent water source, as well as the secret of mastering fluids.

Chonch Ruante Modification of A paintbrush in orikarb, which enables the one geographical relief who is holding it to redesign the outlines of everything that reveals itself within one’s view.

Puerko Podrih-Do Mastery of aroma The pulp flower, a bud that grows at the end of chemistry the nose and allows one to act upon the tiniest inframolecular level of the aromatic chains. fact, being of very different natures, PUERKO The Influence of the forces tied to the neighboring uni- Finally, through the Puerko Chonch verses are naturally antagonistic. It is door one passes from the foul- During the period of not so much that these manifestations smelling borders to emerge into a chaos that marked the thir- are incompatible among themselves — delicately perfumed zone, where the teenth and fourteenth millen- for example, cold could very well make most subtle essences mix to enchant nia, there was an aftershock do with light or darkness — but rather, the senses. Podrih-Do is this door’s phase when the six universes’ the underlying wills which animate guardian. A reptilian creature, en- forces withdrew after having them are irreconcilable rivals. The part of the universe where they confront Chapter 10 • 108 dowed with the massive and power- challenged and fought one ful body of the Saurians, is enhanced another with rare violence. A one another is a very disturbed place. by nine animated heads which each particularly dismal reflux It is the “current’s nexus,” or the eye have an individual life. It lives buried that returned towards the of the storm, and the turmoil at times in the swamps of the planet Sec-Hum Chonch door brushed up reaches an apex that causes the actual from the Soto system in Terra Prima’s against planet Linatys of the texture of the universe to experience galaxy. Three great and distinct races Pyllum system, where a extreme convulsions: black holes, stel- inhabit this geophysically strange peaceful population of farm- lar tsunamis, antimatter irruptions, etc. planet: the Gords, Hireas, and Sueskins. ers and hunters lived in rela- The powers at play defy human un- These last people, also known by the tive harmony. Spurred on by derstanding, and even a being as in- name of the Odorizers, have always shamanic priests who re- vincible as the Metabaron — guard- lived in the marshy strip that encircles vered nature, the Linatys ian of one of the six major sources of Sec-Hum at its equator. As their primi- people soon gave themselves power — cannot confront these tur- tive art attests, the Odoraters have since over to a more and more bulences unscathed. time immemorial revered the “Splendor elaborate technology. Of course, no living world nor en- of the Marshes.” Formerly, they would In less than a standard tity can come away unharmed from sacrifice their hunting catch or the century’s time, they had contact with a nexus, nor more than a youngest members of the tribe to him. erased all of the planets geo- confrontation with a “plexus” (a cur- But a new link has been forged between graphical relief, making the rent having a unique and singular Podrih-Do and the Odoraters. It is not surface of the planet as force). If one of these forces crosses a really a pact but rather a relationship smooth as a lake in summer. system, brushing up against the out- of subjection from which the religious After having reduced the skirts of an inhabited system, all of the feeling has disappeared and any mountains and hills, they life in that zone finds itself affected. In thoughts of communion with the guard- undertook filling in the gulfs particular, forms of intelligent life are ian are excluded. Podrih-Do allows the and valleys. Those who subjected to its influence, or more pre- Odoraters to use certain of his minor where opposed to the cisely, its underlying will. Because the powers, and manipulates them in or- planet’s destruction were the universes follow a logic of their own: der to guarantee his peace and quiet. first to be buried alive. Ev- they are driven by the instinct to con- Thus today, the Odoraters cultivate the ery technological advance quer. In fact, without responding to a pulp flower, mastering the mysteries of was accompanied by an in- precise strategy, the universes and aromatic chemistry. This knowledge has crease in tyranny. The con- forces they diffuse are naturally cos- rendered them indispensable to the quest of the entire system mos devourers. Passing from one uni- Gords and the Hireas who are particu- rapidly followed, excepting verse to another, each force, pushed by larly sensitive to anything that pertains the colonized satellites who an invasive dynamic, strives to occupy to scent, resulting in the unconscious entered into rebellion. A ho- all the space it finds in its course. domination of the two tribes. But micidal rage of a size incon- “Magic” currents arise from the whirl- Podrih-Do did not reveal to them the ceivable only five centuries wind that follows, whose effects are magnitude of his powers, because the before swept through Pyllum apparent everywhere, in the most var- total extent of his understanding of the in every sense of the word. ied of shapes and forms. For example, most subtle workings of ether is so that Finally, engulfed by a cata- a religion practiced for millennia could he could control the suns and subjugate clysmic implosion, it became suddenly take a new turn and fall prey the galaxies. a black hole. to the control of the darkness, stench, scorching heat, or gravity. Initiates ACTIONS AND REACTIONS who are particularly advanced could OF THE UNIVERSES’ FORCES discover new mysteries to invoke a power related to light, dryness, or geographical relief. With six doors scattered about space, and six universes Whatever it may be, the supernatural sweeps through as massed around them, the Human Empire’s universe is at an expression of tremendous combat that the universe the crossroads of numerous force currents thath sweep offers on a cosmic scale. through the stellar void, pass one another and collide. At The exterior forces of the universe experience a mo- certain points in space, these flux join in titanic battles. In ment of immobility when, after having completely un- furled, they lose their momentum. Worn out by terrible battles, they then permeate themselves in the surrounding ing from extremely distant space, sometimes 109 • The Major Forces space, dispersing partially into the zone where the wave bursting into zones of the Human Empire. And brought them. Whatever may occur, the reflux moment similarly to the six currents’ remnants, they enter in always comes next. A new masterful momentum calls the turn into the cosmic vortex’s furious whirling bring- forces back to their original source. It is the paleo- ing about various side effects, inspiring to beings and salmonesque current of the six forces, a rising residual systems with the macabre appetites of destructive con- force that is exceedingly black. Regretfully, stopped short quest. Or to the contrary, they create a constructive in their conquering course, the forces regain their inten- and positive will. In certain examples, they communi- sity, trampling back across the regions already traversed cate a creative energy that leads to a technological mas- with a malicious climatic vigor. When this happens, on tery or paves the road to mysterious occults. the frequency of a cosmic scale — that is to say once ev- Finally, in addition to the six doors that act as valves ery 10,000 years — entire systems are swallowed up in a between the universes, a vast number of minor “valves” chaotic, blind and wild fury. occasionally pop open under the pressure of frothing energies which make use of these openings to release their MANIPULATING THE UNIVERSE waves of force. The fate of star systems and the entities Although this game is not intended to allow characters that populate them undergo either beneficial or disrup- played on the level a Metabaron, characters can try to use tive impacts, depending upon the force’s level of concen- the force they are attuned to to alter the world. Treat each tration. On the scale of the universe, their side effects are act as an attempt at reality manipulation. The dice in a not as long-lasting as those of the great currents, but they character’s reality manipulation ability equals her Amarax are often more intense. It is as if suddenly, out of nowhere, Points times her willpower value. Use the guideliens on a mad wind starts blowing, and a supernatural tornado pages 104 of the rule book, but add +40 to whatever you lets loose. choose (this accounts for the inerent ability of the uni- HE REATURES OF THE REACHES verse to replus changes and remain the same). Thus, an T C B easy manipulation (such as changing the number of rounds Countless creatures burst upon our universe through of ammunition are remaining in your opponent’s weapon) breaches between the universes. The majority are native is 45, while an incredible manipulation (the Metabaron to the borders, where the extreme conditions give birth breaching the Golden Planet’s defense unscated and un- to monstrous chimeras. These are the pachydermic jelly- detected) is 75 or more. fish, stellar skate manta fish that are as large as suns, or better yet, the cosmic cetaceans, or the Jejoh — those OTHER DOORS, PASSAGES, AND that were formerly revered by the Shabda-Oud. These MINOR FORCES entities are not by any means deities. Strictly speaking, they don’t have any supernatural powers. Above all, they Along with the great currents that cut through deep are lacking the awareness which would render their power space, there are other manifestations that make themselves more than just an ability. But the fact is that they are known. First of all, there are sporadic reshapings by the endowed with particular aptitudes of super-human size. six cosmic forces. When these remnants (magnetic, psy- They should be thought of as whimsical bubbles secreted chic, sexual and others) are infused into a universe’s sys- by the universes, devoid of freewill, at times driven by tem, they undergo a transformation dictated by the na- purely physical desires and appetites, and always capable ture of their new environment. Their essence becomes of extraordinary feats. another. They are no longer an expression of their origi- As the Shabda-Oud order has demonstrated, these crea- nal universe, nor are they the local force’s reply. They form tures can be tamed into submission. Their power can be a new “strain.” Sometimes these strains are hybrid, the harnessed and used by other intelligent forms of life. Domi- fruit of a symbiotic encounter between different forces. nating this power, however, certainly is not enough to Cut off from their original source, they eventually lose conquer all of the universe, but it opens up certain possi- their intensity, but this modification is compensated with bilities for imposing tyranny. The creature’s force shows a greater affinity for the zone where they currently reign. no sign or characteristics of a magic essence. It is just brute This distinctive mystical union has strong repercussions force, but what force it is! on a local level, since the magic current steeps into the substance of space, the planet’s ether, and the souls of FLUIDS AND CURRENTS living beings. Under its influence, religions practiced on The diffused fluids that cross the universe have a more inhabited worlds take on specific orientations, either fa- subtle and ephemeral power, as well as a particular affin- vorable to life or contrarily becoming utterly morbid; the ity with the underlying system. This is notably the case cosmogonic harmony itself responds with complete chaos with the universes’ sexual energies, and their feminine or or, alternately, finds a new equilibrium based on order. masculine essence. It is known that these great poles gen- In the same way that our universe is in direct contact erate imperceptible fields, whose strong magnetic effects with six other universes, each one of these neighboring are quite visible and concrete. For example, it is under universes is directly in contact with six other universes. this influence that certain portions of space migrate from By a process of natural circulation, exogenous forces com- already written on another level of re- time to time to get closer to ality. In fact, the Blue Rose is the a body or zone that attracts universe’s navel, its center of gravity, them. This particular form of har- The Carnido a place only accessible through dream, mony is also that which unifies the Star fantasy, and mystic thought. Con- Metabaron and his Metacraft — a During the twenty-second sciously or unconsciously, every being profound understanding that en- millennium, following the carries within himself the memory of ables communication through pul- collapse of one of the borders’ this place. Through dreamlike chance, sion and impulsion, drawing directly zones, a flux emanating from or through long meditative work and from the primal energy of life and the force guarded by the awakening, one can go back there, re-

Chapter 10 • 110 death. Locally, these extremely vola- guardian Uakl swept through charge themselves, and develop their tile fluids can reach such a high level the star system Carnido of the psychic abilities. In practice, the psy- of concentration that they can inspire outlying Ranz Galaxy. The chic dimension offered by the Blue a religion or lead receptive beings into stellar bodies’ path was dis- Rose is akin to the Mind’s Shadow that specific types of behavior. Their action turbed, and the system’s two is mastered by the Shabda-Oud. The is disassociated from all moral dimen- viable planets experienced source is different, but the effect on sions, to such an extent that worship- adverse but equally tragic the initiated human is comparable. Af- ing femininity, for example, could lead ends. One approached terwards, the orientation taken by the either to a civilization of unsociable Carnido, while the other was newly acquired psychic strength, de- amazons, to triumphant males under the distanced from the star. The pends uniquely upon what one decides influence of egotistical chauvinist vegetation yellowed on the to do with it. It is there that it exists at priests, or contrarily, to a society where first planet, and soon nothing a latent state, and whoever makes the the men pay tribute to woman’s beauty, survived but a blue and poi- effort to seek it out it, may attain it. the women revere the proud virile sonous lichen. Water became Ithis is a creature intimately linked monolith, and together they elaborate scarce. People died, and mil- to the universe. She is related to the an extremely sophisticated peaceful lions of animal and vegetable Golden Flower, which is her meta- eroticism. species disappeared. During phoric interpretation. As the essence In terms of strength, these emanations this time, the second planet of femininity, or more precisely of be- are far from being as devastating as the was plunged into a permanent nevolent maternity, Ithis watches over six door’s grand flux, but combined glacial night. humanity. When the course of events with the interior force possessed by ev- While an inescapable end takes a wrong turn, she feels sadness, ery individual, great things can be ac- — within at best two centu- but she doesn’t directly intervene, pre- complished. The “Golden Flower” ries — seemed destined, the ferring subtle and indirect action. For opened by Steelhead in the heart of the survivors of the two worlds example, Amourine is the substance Golden Palace is a perfect illustration. experienced a desperate that comes from flowers that blossom Certainly, Steelhead is no ordinary hu- wake-up call. They were in the heart, the flowers of Ithis. man, but on this very day he invoked taken over with feverish ac- Amourine enables a person to harmo- the supreme expression of femininity, tivity. Those who were until niously reintegrate himself into the and it was this force that harmed the this time idle and confident universe when life, the elements, and reputedly invincible defenses of the in the goodness of nature especially hostile forces have worked Empire’s nerve center. In the same way, immersed themselves with against him to disturb the equilibrium each and every person can be in har- zeal into study and research. of his synchronicity with the environ- mony with the sexual charge of the ele- The more they worked with ment. Indirectly, Ithis is an object of ments, nature, or the cosmos in order fervor, the more their faith in veneration to the Neuro-Emotional to reinforce and strengthen their will, a recourse was reinforced. Church cult, who worship the Saint drawing thereupon for a renewed vigor, Every day, life became Amourine. It is unlikely that she ac- and reaching never before explored ar- harder, but major advances complishes other, more direct acts in eas of knowledge and power. were realized: the two plan- the lives of other worlds, but she can Cataloguing all of the strength vec- ets could communicate, then certainly give inspiration and open tors that cross the interstellar void or a probe was sent from one pathways for those who search for heel and list in a galaxy’s gyron would planet to the other. When them. be a Herculean task, but certain merit their worlds became barren, MYSTICAL AND DIVINE mention. It is notably the case with the the survivors had already “Blue Rose,” that which is invoked by taken refuge in a space sta- POWERS the Metabaron Aghnar to convince Oda tion. And when the planets Beyond the cosmos — the devour- that she is destined to be with him for died, they were already long ing forces, conquering and greedy all of eternity. It is not a matter of sug- gone for the stars. powers, and diffused flux that regu- gestion. It exerts no influence over her. late or disturb the harmony of life in It only reminds her that their union is the universe — there are other entities

111 • The Major Forces of divine essence that exist on a totally The Anishad- is placed under their protec- inaccessible level of reality yet are com- Oupah Door tive wing. Finally, the ultimate myth, pletely devoted to preserving the gen- This “door” is the “mythic hope of hopes… the Perfect An- eral equilibrium among all of the uni- intra-universe tunnel,” the drogyne is the one for whom every verses. Their motivations remain a first river, that which flows form of life waits, to be lead to- mystery, but it is nevertheless certain across time and space, and wards an eternal Eden. Since the that they emanate from Omphal, the whose every embankment prophesy of Aptisto, the human eye creator, the pupil from which comes leads toward a new universe. preacher from Terra Prima — “Be- all existence. From this first and last site No one knows where to find cause it is said that the one who will — point of the beginning and point of this legendary tunnel, for its unite the qualities of man and woman the end — came the Arraths, the guard- location is constantly chang- will be the Perfect Androgyne, the sa- ians’ guardians, those who keep a watch ing, as unstable as the con- cred Being adorned with all of the over the cohesion of the greater all, a tours of the universe it ser- qualities of the mother and the father, whole so vast, that it can only be devices. Sometimes here, some- will reign forever and lead humanity, scribed on a divine scale. Not only do times there, it only appears by its sublime hand, towards destiny” they possess the two Incals — the two to those who are able to en- — and maybe even before this proph- faces of unique truth — but the Arraths ter into symbiosis with the esy, the myth of the Perfect Androgyne are also the guardians of the guardians, great all: “He who is one had already been a stake of power. which are in some ways distant projec- with the universe, he whose Each great pillar of the Human Em- tions of themselves in reality. will is strong and who car- pire works toward giving birth to the To fulfill their sacred mission — pre- ries passion’s burning desire one who could claim this title… But serving life — the Arraths can intervene in his heart.” at any moment, in any universe. Gen- only in vain. The Perfect Androgyne erally, they appear as little grandfathers, has never been realized, and no Trans- good natured and patient. Despite the Bourbon has ever been, no more Ja- extensive powers at their disposal, they never act in a di- nus-Jana than His-Her predecessors. In rect manner: they listen, consult, suggest, and direct. For fact, the realized ideal, the absolute communion between example, it is they who instill the bit of moderation that two principles, designates the ultimate and sole power, curbs the Tenebrea’s conquering drive. In the same way, that which is behind the Omphal — the divine will that when the galacto-barbarian wars bordered on the point created everything. of risking the pure and simple eradication of one or sev- But that has not prevented beings at once male and eral universes, the Arraths encouraged the discovery of female to come into existence and even to rule over one TRI-H technology, which would put an end to the con- of the most powerful governments in the universe — the flict. This said, their presence in the life of the universes is Human Empire. extremely discrete, even if the existence of each universe C U L T S A N D R E L I G I O N S

The universe is like a crucible into which a mischie- a basis for belief in some divine entity. They looked death in vous alchemist indiscriminately pours power grains in the eye, sustained the limits of human existence, and con- order to observe the reactions with wonder, astonish- quered and vanquished, accepted their fate. Then suddenly, ment or dismay. From this frothing and fiery cauldron a power greater than themselves, a fantastic force came to come cults, beliefs and religions, which are all linked save them. A feeling of gratitude and hope could have been to one form of power or another. In practice, these faiths born from this point. Faith was lurking nearby, and it could and institutions can assume diverse appearances: for have swept through the hearts of people in all the galaxies. some, they are instruments to serve their creations’ But nothing like that happened… ambitions, and for others, they represent a form of All the right ingredients were united, but the recipe just muddled hope, a threat or a sanctuary where one can find did not take. Coincidence or historical whim are not to refuge when the whole universe has become mad. blame. There exists a concrete explanation. For the force from which the Techno-Techno order draws its strength THE CHURCH OF THE — the triple Ophidat guardian of the Lucioh door — is in INDUSTRIAL SAINTS (C.I.S.) the hands of a stronger will, the Tenebrae, which has no need to put hope in the hearts of people. Humans are In the long list of mystical groups and sects, the order fearful by nature. If they fear the beyond, there is no rea- of the Techno-Technos is looked upon as a special case. son to reassure them. Moreover, bio-life is the Tenebrae’s Already, with its status as the official church of the Em- personal enemy, and the Tenebrea only thinks of its elimi- pire, it enjoys a unique position as a religion. An impor- nation. Thankfully, for human people and all living be- tant part of the social life of the Empire’s representatives ings, the Tenebrea is not the only power in the universe, who are scattered throughout the entire universe turn and it is obliged to make peace with other forces that around the rites and rituals linked to the Techno-mystic: protect it. Yet, discretely and steadfastly, the Church of Technology Feast Day, Day of the Ser- the Industrial Saints spreads the pent, Days of the Tenebrae, Ovoid Eas- Tenebrea’s word, preparing the arrival ter, and so on. But that isn’t all, because of the Tenebrea and plotting for its the C.I.S. distinguishes itself as well by Techno-Techno greater glory. its complete disinterest for anything that Control For all of these reasons, the Techno- has to do with the depths of mysticism. In the Endocities, the Techno order, despite its church sta- Fervor shown for the Techno-Techno hi- Techno-Technos’ machine- tus, cannot be considered as an insti- erarchy is acceptable. Observing with assisted population control tution that tries to convey hope or a a scrupulous rigor the obligations and does not require coercive message. But its power and omnipres- duties imposed by the rites is once again measures other than “sur- ence are such that it can sterilize and okay. But to throw oneself blindly and veying one’s flock.” Techno- kill in the embryonic stage all or any entirely into a spiritual quest to give life Techno chapels and temples remote impulses towards spiritual el- meaning, to cultivate compassion, or to do exist, but it has not been evation. An absolute necessity in search out other values, higher and less necessary to make their fre- achieving humanity’s muffled subser- material, than those given by the Saint quentation an obligation. vience, which is one of the Tenebrea’s Technology means running the risk of However, on worlds that major objectives, as a prelude to other bringing upon oneself the Council elude their direct control — more radical actions, leaves no room Circuit’s anger and disdain. The archaic planets where spon- for individual expression. Moral slop- Empire’s official cult has no use for taneous animism is freely piness — the Necro-Dream — favors metaphysics. It has no mystical thirst practiced, Colonial planets these projects; whereas reaffirmation, to quench. It has an Empire to tame. resistant to certain dogma, faith, dignity and spiritual elevation and Maganat planets where are the obstacles that the Tenebrae RELIGIOUS AND MYSTICAL local despots privilege their must vanquish to maintain its domi- FOUNDATIONS own cult of personality — nation over humanity while patiently the supporters of the Church Yet, the Techno-Pontificate is thor- waiting to eliminate them. oughly built upon those foundations with of the Industrial Saints take which churches are made. First of all, advantage of their status as MYSTICAL AND RELIGIOUS the Empire’s official cult to there had been one day a revelation. At ACTIONS the Techno-Techno origins are three rep- obtain privileges and pre- The Church of the Industrial Saints resentatives of the Guild, lost in deep rogatives, imposing the promises nothing. It brings no aide, no space on a small asteroid, condemned sur- Techno-Techno’s supreme comfort, and leads no action to allevi- vivors promised to an impending end. control over secular affairs. ate life’s burdens or solve its difficul- These three actually lived through a mys- ties. It does not attempt to solve life’s tical experience that most often serves as mysteries, nor understand the divine in

113 • Cults and Religions people, nor favor transcendence or el- Initiations and religious congregations, the evation. The church especially does not Achievements Neo-Shabda-Oud order is to protect the arts, and stirs no sacred in- the contrary, a community fully When a novice is on her spirations in those who believe. To the established on a mystical dimen- way to reaching the eighth contrary, it condemns and imposes with sion. The ten founding members — level of awakening, at the extreme rigor a quantity of rules as ob- grand elders and high-ranking ini- eighth Mohn, she is called to scure as they are inflexible, which help tiates of the vanished order — live the first Temple to undergo to spread confusion in the follower’s in a state of physical catalepsy, inti- the final initiation and be- minds and flatter their lowest instincts. mately joined by a powerful mental come a reverend-mother. On the subject of morals, the Techno- bond whose source represents the This ultimate trial should Techno order is anything but rigid. For essence of the Neo-Shabda reality. In give her access to new mys- example, though their rules reprove in- the battle against Metabaron Aghnar, terious powers. Afterwards, tellectual curiosity, they strongly ap- they lost all of their technological trea- the neo-reverend-mothers prove of depravation, unrestrained con- sures, reducing them to almost equals must certainly leave on a se- sumption of drugs and other psycho- with the Techno-Technos. But this pe- cret mission because they are tropic agents, and in a word, everything riod is now ancient history, a nostalgic never seen again… that distracts and diverts one from the regret. For in this time of trial and ut- highest to the lowest, most vile com- ter destitution, they found the inspira- mon denominator. tion to build new arms that are poten- For lack of a veritable faith or want tially even more devastating than those of a great mysticism, the pan-Techno-Church imposes an that were lost. extremely ritualized cult agenda. All who belong to the or- Shabda mysticism is certainly not based on loving thy der must be subjected to their principles of life, and their brother or neighbor. The Shabda are not altruistic. To- heavy and constraining ceremonials, with the objective of day, like yesterday, their motivations remain the quest for assuring blind devotion to technology. It is the same for the power and the desire for strength. Even devoid of all em- Techno-Techno minions or underlings as well as the digni- pathy, they know how to find their way towards the men- taries — Techno-Popes, Techno-Cardinals, Techno-Bishops tal strength that is lodged in each thinking being and — who are placed under the inflexible authority of the cen- master it. Formerly, spurred on by their Jejoh’s sexual en- tral computers and Techno-Centrix. Freewill has no place ergy, they knew how to harness mental energy, but they in the church, and all the followers’ actions and doings are have now brought this mastery to a never before imag- strictly controlled. This equally applies to laymen and insti- ined level. Living within fixed time allowed them the tutions. Everywhere it can, the Church of the Industrial Saints luxury to explore in extremely minute detail — virtually imposes its hyper-hierarchical structure, as well as its nu- in a form of conscious energy — the mysterious resources merous ceremonies and obligations. of the brain. Patiently and methodically, they dissected Fundamentally, the Church of the Industrial Saints is and analyzed each lobe, each cortical zone, and estab- not for humanity. The Techno-Technos are exploited by lished a precise topography of the eight “Mohn” points. the Tenebrae with the goal of mastering the bio-elements, Accessing mental strength is achieved by a gradual as emanations of life, and keeping them in a state of sub- awakening process of each one of these eight points. The mission conducive to the arrival of the frozen reign of operation, as delicate as it is spectacular, consists of in- darkness. Ové Tenebrae! troducing a long ebony wood needle probe into the brain. The ten Shabda-Oud elders, the Neo-Shabda reverends, THE NEO-SHABDA-OUD ORDER became masters in the art of trephination. Each one of After the destruction of the Temple on Planet Diamond them wears a crown made up of eight ebony needle rods, and the Magons’ invasion of the frozen planet, one might placed according to a very specific arrangement, and each imagine that the order of the nun-sluts had disappeared one has reached an extraordinary stage of psychic devel- forever. But, cloistered in the frozen sanctuary of the first opment. New cerebral regions are accessible to them, zones Temple, built on the stellar ice floe at the exact spot where that until recently were unexplored and untouched, where the initial Jejoh was discovered by the order’s founders, they have found treasures. Now, in addition to the mortal the ten great Elders — ten sickly mummy-like keepers of mental fluid with which the Shabda-Oud overwhelms their the great Shabda secrets — were the order’s only survi- enemies, they have supernatural telekinetic capacities at vors. Their armed forces — the seven cetacyborgs and their disposal. Together, from a distance, they can act on their legion of fresh and vigorous novices — had been matter in an absolutely terrifying manner. reduced to an impotent, lifeless member. Yet there re- Of course, the Shabda-Oud are still able to take con- mained their legendary psychic power, fruit of the inde- trol over and subjugate any unsuspecting creature, using fatigable labor of generations of priestess-witches. simple hypno-suggestive impulses. Technology had escaped them, but they were able, in a very short period of RESURRECTION time, to reconstruct an arsenal that wants nothing more If the Church of the Industrial Saints, despite its name, than to sweep through and conquer the universe. doesn’t show any of the qualities generally attributed to THE NEURO-EMOTIONAL RECOVERY Scarification HURCH AND THE Rites C At this stage of their renais- Inspired by traditional AMOURINE CULT sance, the Neo-Shabda-Ouds were paleo-techniques from Terra confronted with diverse difficulties: The hope of the universe’s damned, Prima, the scarified tattoo is cult of the neglected, the Neuro-emo- they were banished from the Empire, a procedure (extremely pain- where moreover they had hardly tional Church assembles all those who ful when carried out without society (in the most general sense of been tolerated, and they were only anesthetics) that consists in ten, isolated and above all, incapable the word) ignore, despise, and would Chapter 11 • 114 applying a fine laser ray that watch die without experiencing the of moving. To overcome these diffi- has a psycho-electric charge culties, they embarked on an active slightest quiver. In the Endocities, this capable of altering biochemi- Church is the hope of the mutants and recruitment campaign. Evidently, the cal structure in biological tis- first and most difficult thing was to at- the desperate of the lower levels, and sue. The ray actually acts everywhere else, the miserable of the tract women to come all the way to their upon the melanin content of hideout. Once present, there was no universe have the hope in their hearts the deep epidermal layers. of the Advent. But the Neuro-emo- doubt that they would be able to per- Contrary to paleo-scarifica- suade them, but attractive action from tional Church is a banned and hunted tion, it doesn’t produce scar cult. It is most alive in the Endocities, a distance constituted a veritable chal- tissue folds but leaves an in- lenge. They succeeded beyond their in the Subring and its GTO, as their delible mark, comparable to priests are always mutants. But the dreams. In fact, fate greatly favored a birthmark. In dark skin, it their plan, and they caught a complete Church is also present in space, on one leaves a light mark, whereas planet or another, where a mutant, es- crew of Amazons in their net: ten magon light skin, a dark mark. nificent soldiers, all determined and vig- caped from an Endocity to join the pi- orous. A first series of initiations were rates, carried the Church’s message. started, and a minor trephination was THE MINOTAUR-PROPHET carried out on the ten new recruits. The configuration of four needle rods placed in a semi-circle The first mutant, the Minotaur-Prophet is the founder on the left side of the head is called “covenant.” The nov- of the Neuro-emotional Church. A curiosity throughout ices do not become the elders’ equals, because the “cov- the Empire during the period when genetic mutations were enant” does not open the superior levels of mental mas- still an extremely rare phenomenon, he was one day tery, but it does make them formidable witches and, above brought to Golden Planet to be displayed. It was on this all, contributes to introducing them into a circle that they occasion that he discovered Amourine, a small white will never, ever leave. flower that grows in immaculate gold. He then ingested These ten Neo-Shabda-Oud priestesses were then sent some seeds, and his destiny was turned upside down. towards inhabited worlds on recruitment missions. Con- Taken to an Endocity, he escaped and started upon the strained to act with extreme discretion — they risked im- long road as preacher of the love flower, the white weed. mediate execution if their affiliation with the Shabda-Oud The essence of his message is clear: “God is concentrated came to be known — they concealed the needle rods that in Amarax.” In other words, the divine reveals itself in protruded from their heads under a white headdress. To the principle of a person’s elevation. When a man has the this day, no one really knows exactly what they are, and sincere will to better himself, he renews himself with the in a universe where the most whimsical and weird dress- heavenly dimension that is inside of him. The reference to ing styles are abound, no one is surprised to see these “god” does not allude to a clearly defined entity, but rather cranial outgrowths. But even so, they scrupulously fol- to an idea of a superior force favorable to humans, crea- lowed a prudent and cautious course. Thanks to their ef- tures, and to life in general. Amarax is in each one of us, fective action and their intensified powers of persuasion, but it is through our acts and the intention and determi- the Neo-Shabda-Oud order rapidly filled its ranks. nation with which we accomplish them that reinforces it, Three awakening centers were opened. They are directed or to the contrary, degrades it. in the greatest of secrecy by priestess-witches vested with In the Endocities, the Minotaur-Propohet’s message the personality of a great elder. During the course of highly quickly found a large response in the heart of the mutant ritualized secret ceremonies, they implant an initial needle population. As their numbers increased, the word of the rod to open the first Mohn. The novices are then sent into Neuro-emotional spread. The Church as such, then struc- the universe to become seasoned in leading a recruitment tured and organized itself. Temples were constructed in mission. Then, as they develop more and more into Neo- the most sordid places and the most hidden, where the Shabdas, new needle rods are implanted and new cortical word, held in contempt by the Empire, would be the most areas become accessible to them. heard. Priests, called “reverends” or “sacerdotes” were Today, the Neo-Shabda-Oud order counts thousands trained and sent out in every direction. They brought with of followers in the universe. Isolated, they keep their veri- them some small seeds from the Saint Amourine, the flower table nature a well-guarded secret and prepare in the shad- with fantastic properties. ows the revival of the priestess-witches’ splendor. SAINT AMOURINE AND AMARAX the Human Universe. One day, at the begin- 115 • Cults and Religions On Golden Planet — where it grows wild everywhere ning of the Empire, Rosemonde 1st the Rebis who without being cultivated — Saint Amourine is at best con- reigned at the time called for his crown — the golden sidered ornamental and at worst like a weed. And yet, it flame that encircled his head — regretting that he could is also the Empire’s worst enemy — a poisonous flower not turn it into gold to bail out his declining treasury. that could overturn the established order and turn hierar- Hardly had the thought occurred to him when a foun- chies upside down — and the greatest hope of all beings tain of gold pieces sprung from his hands, pouring forth who people the universe. It is a miraculous potion that in a crystalline cascade… ten million standard gold could change the Emperoress and reform the Human kublars. On the front, the sparkling coins displayed a Universe without shedding a drop of blood. Because portrait of Rosemonde, and on the back, a shut eye. Amourine, Ithis’ gift of the sacred flower, which draws its Made of the finest gold, each piece was, aside from be- life from the purity of gold or angelic hearts, has the power ing absolutely unalterable, capable of resisting the high- to create love, to find once again the feeling of love that est temperatures, as well as the most corrosive acids. It the divine feels for life itself. The dark forces of the Necro- was a great treasure that, with no uncertainty, was well Dream fight against Amourine, which is like a poison to worth much more than the sum total of the coins’ face them. For Amourine heals the Merope virus (the evil that value. The same day, overcome by sudden madness, is a direct expression of the Necro-Dream) and purifies Rosemonde sneaked out of the Golden Palace incognito Amarax (the vital drive from which beings strengthen and left in a trance for the casino planet Vegas-Vegas where themselves and find their force). he squandered away his fortune in slot machines. THE KUBLARIAN SECT THE PURIFYING DELUGE A secret society present throughout Known by initiated numismatists by the universe, the Kublarian sect is a het- The White the name of “original edition,” the erogeneous congregation of enthusiasts entirety of the standard gold kublars united by the same hallucinatory love Machines Ophidat’s nature is has long since been dispersed to every of the kublar… but not just any kublar. corner of the Human Universe. The The soul of the sect, the one who in- double, at once darkness and light. He is like a serpent in gold shower episode has been forgot- spires and directs it, is the “Minister of ten by everyone… or almost everyone. Finance,” a mysterious individual un- form, with black and white evenly distributed scales. He The Kublarians, worshipers of the al- known to all. Despite his hermit-like mighty power of the kublar, perpetu- discretion, he can count on the abso- sometimes shows his dark side, and at other times his ate the memory, working relentlessly lute fidelity and devotion of ten million to gather the ten million lost pieces. followers, all ready for the ultimate sac- bright and luminous side. On rare occasions, he pre- That which might seem like a strange rifice, when finally the reign of the “Al- fad, in fact responds to a profound mighty Kublar” will come into being. sents both aspects of his dual nature. Whether he is under mystical logic. The Kublarians are cru- Under the supreme Minister of saders, and their divine mission is to Finance’s authority are the Treasurers the influence of Darkness — black scales, or of Light — enable the triumphant coming of a di- and the Cashiers, who respectively rep- vine being whose body is composed resent the sect officers and the troops. white scales, the repercussions are then felt on a uni- of the ten million standard gold This hierarchy corresponds to a level of kublars. When finally they are united, mystical initiation as well as a physical versal scale. As the Techno- Technos are completely un- then the “Almighty Kublar” will ap- commitment. For in accomplishing their pear, opening the ten million eyes, and goal, the Kublarians often lead acts of der the Ophidat’s controlling yoke, all equipment that they thus a deluge of gold will rain down, violence, which are similar to forceful purifying the universe… takeovers or coups. Usually, they are manufacture is tinged with the Ohpidat “spirit,” its Driven by the fervor of their reli- perfectly harmless and very well inte- gious certainty, the ten million Trea- grated into society. However, the double essence, and so is intimately mixed with dark- surers and Cashiers upkeep a vast in- Kublarians distinguish themselves with formants’ network, who are in charge a finely scarified tattoo that they wear ness and light. Thus while the secular guardian starts let- of tracing original edition coins. As at the nape of the neck, precisely at the soon as one is located, every possible base of the axis of the second cervical ting his scales of light appear, certain Techno-Techno ma- method is used to take possession of vertebrae. This enigmatic mark looks it. Numerous violent raids and pilfer- like a shut eye. chines called “White Ma- chines” demonstrate the ing, carried out every day in the uni- THE MIRACULOUS SOURCE “will” to protect humanity verse, can in fact be attributed to them. against the designs of Dark- But the sacred importance of their mis- The origins of the Kublarian sect sion justifies the means. To this day, come from the legend that surrounds ness, who seek exactly the opposite. five million eight hundred and seventy- the birth of the kublar, the Imperial cur- two thousand, three hundred and rency that is in current use throughout forty-two original edition standard that the Perfect Androgyne is really the gold kublars have been re- Paleo-Marx? greatest of all divinities, the one who couped. They are guarded in a And God in All knows how to triumph over all the secret place, the whereabouts only of That… others. known by the Minister of Finance. The confederation of Co- RELIGIOUS OBSERVANCE lonial planets, lead by the THE PERFECT Troglosocialik Federation, AND MYSTICISM IN THE ANDROGYNE CULT AND the galactic Mencheviks, and UNIVERSE THE ALEO ARS OF diverse minor factions (Poly- P -W With thousands of worlds scattered Chapter 11 • 116 Schismatiks, Avatars RELIGION Trotsko-Revoltionaries and in a universe more vast than human Although entirely disconnected Proto-Nihiliks) boycott all thought, worlds inhabited by popula- from all that is mystical or religious, festivities linked to the Paleo- tions who rarely have the occasion to the most observed cult in all the Em- Wars of Religion and have leave, worlds immersed in the stellar pire (even more than the Church of the even officially registered an void, crossed in every direction by eso- Industrial Saints) remains unquestion- Imperial amendment project teric forces and magic fluids, inevita- ably to be that of the Perfect An- on this subject. Outraged bly have numerous mystical currents drogyne. For on all the Imperial worlds, that the figure of Paleo-Marx appear and blossom. The more that the nobody questions the sublime sacred was not included in the final worlds are isolated and lacking in and divine nature of the Emperoress. group of divinities (as god of riches, which makes them susceptible His-Her great longevity, the miracles the Atheists), they are lead- to cause interest in the Empire, greater that are attributed to Him-Her, as well ing an active smear cam- are the chances that a particular type as education and cultural tradition as- paign against these “unpro- of cult develops. In reality, the Church sociate His-Her person with virtues re- ductive festivities that are of the Industrial Saints does not have served only for living gods. From the contrary to the interest of the to worry about competition from the Nobles to the lowly people from the masses.” mystics. The Church has huge means Maganat worlds, the Prez of the at its disposal to condemn every form Endocities and their fellow citizens, ev- of independent human thought. But eryone reveres His-Her distinguished where the Church’s sticky hands can- person, even if their acts of respect are not in the least bit not reach, in the remote and neglected places, mystical thought can become a philosophic movement and even laden with hope. Numerous days have been declared pub- an active religion. lic holidays, and official events (cultural or sporting, for Apart from the Techno-Techno order’s hierarchy, there example) are celebrated in honor of the Emperoress. If does not exist any other type of ecclesiastic official. But some at times give themselves over to Him-Her with con- that does not stop hundreds of thousands of practicing fidence and a bit of hope, it is essentially with the hope devotees to act as priests and servants of the cult, preach- that He-She will change and that this universe of preda- ing its good word. Depending upon the circumstances, if tion and violence will finally give way to an era of peace. some divine revelation backs up their sermon, the follow- But they are naive, sweet dreamers. ers embrace the faith. For example, the Neuro-emotional Parallel to tributes given to the perfect incarnation of Church counts millions in its “flocks” or congregations; the double male and female principle, the Empire regu- yet cults which become too important run the risk of be- larly organizes (every four standard years) gigantic days ing declared enemies of the Empire. The Church of the of galactic size: the Paleo-Wars of Religion. Broadcast to Industrial Saints only tolerates those who do not bother all the worlds on the hypertele and attended by the them. If another church attracts too much attention, or is Empire’s upper crust brought together in a special giant too much in the limelight, shadowing the C.I.S., it will stadium of ten million seats, these huge events are the have to answer to “a higher authority.” symbolic representation of the paleo-gods’ dethroning. Fundamentally, the mystical, religious, or simply per- Colossal figurines, each the size of a planet, represent the sonal observance that is the least visible — and without a divinities formally venerated on Terra Prima: Isis, Bud- doubt the most dangerous for the Empire and the Magnus dha, Horus, Jesus, Mohammed, King Elvis, Jehovah, and Dei — is Amarax awakening in one’s conscious. Amarax others. The figurines are brought into space and placed in is the great spirit that lies dormant in each one of us, and an open zone. Then before the ecstatic eyes of hundreds the will to always act according to the harmonious prin- of billions of tele-junkies, a fleet of the Empire’s mono- ciples granted to the spiritual heart. The Techno-Technos lithic vessels tackle their mission of wiping them out with are powerless against it, and their greatest fear must be the mono-H bomb. This magnificently ordered ballet ends that a majority of the Empire’s citizens end up becoming in a brilliant, crowning fireworks-like display. It leaves a aware of it. If that happened, Central Planet might see the lasting image of startling beauty in the minds of the amazed end of its days of grandeur. and stunned spectators, reinforcing the firm conviction A M A R A X AND T H E N E C R O - D R E A M

AMARAX self that allows for control, protection, and in particular, help in avoiding attacks from the universe at large. Amarax is an energy. It is a vibration that is both ethe- At an ultimate degree, when the commitment is pro- real and extremely powerful, resulting from an accord found, permanent, and absolute, and when an encoun- between the physical heart and the spiritual heart. The ter with an energy encourages growth, Amarax can be- physical heart produces a clearly identifiable and percep- come a factor of improvement and perfection that increases tible beat, but next to the physical heart resides another the strength and abilities of the individual tenfold, in heart, immaterial and invisible. It is the spiritual heart, clearly superhuman proportions. Without losing their also called “Path,” that also makes a noticeable pulsa- humanity, without reaching the divine sphere, the upper- tion. Moreover, anyone with keen vision, or due to some level Amarax initiates become exceptional beings, capable particular circumstances, can catch a glimpse of the spiri- of all types of incredible acts. The areas in which their tual heart’s phantom “halo.” faculties and aptitudes grow depends upon the energy that The balance between the physical and spiritual heart inspires them. Amarax can for example accomplish physi- thus produces a vibrating wave that draws its source di- cal exploits usually reserved for creatures and ultra-pow- rectly from life’s first energy. Amarax is this particular erful engineering, acquire a staggering mastery of speed, type of spirit, zeal, strength, boldness, or dauntlessness or develop a prodigious photographic memory associated that one feels when in a profound state of inner harmony. with a phenomenal visual acuity. Besides the increased dynamism felt by every human as In brief, Amarax is a source of inner vitality, a door soon as he lets his spiritual heart blossom, the harmony that, once found and opened, can lead to the mastery of between the physical heart and the Path can bring much certain forces and fluids, but also and above all is a shield more. Like all beauty in the universe, the Path is fragile against the destructive action of the universe. In a human and needs special care. But those who cultivate it, who being, the disappearance of Amarax amounts to its re- are careful to keep away from their heart the harmful nunciation. Without it, one is nothing more than a lifeless sources that would attack it, see Amarax strengthen. The puppet, left to the hands of cruel madmen whose dreams more this wave is energetic and powerful, the deeper the are haunted with images of death. symbiosis between it and the universe. The nature of the bond between aspiration and action At the first stage, Amarax brings a certain interior force. is the key to realizing one’s destiny. Consequently, the quest Next, as it develops, it imparts new abilities: increased for Amarax inevitably passes through the choice of a code comprehension, seduction capacities, and a sense of con- of conduct, and respecting this code in every act and deci- viction that can develop into veritable hypnotic powers. sion. Of course, everyone is free to act as he feels he should, Naturally, these aptitudes are the essential keys for higher but every act that departs from the line of conduct that levels of mastery of the surrounding universe. The possi- one has chosen distances him from Amarax. It introduces bility to act upon neighboring elements is not the ulti- a dissonance that disturbs the vibration between the two mate goal, but to create a protective sphere around one- hearts. + Avoid danger at the right moment, rather than con- Conforming to the ideal is key. This ideal is fronting it and exposing oneself to risk. Return once the generally given by the honor code one has cho- danger has gone. sen. To betray one’s code, that is to say, to act against Negative Actions it brings about a loss of Amarax. Of course, the code - Act out in the open. Expose oneself. one chooses is not an absolute and irrevocable con- - Intervene hastily, forgetting all precaution. straint. One can always change the code. But Amarax - Accept confrontation out of bravado, pride or the likes consistency and perseverance. And when action simple desire to show one’s bravery. is in harmony with the chosen path, Amarax grows. BUSHITAKA

Chapter 12 • 118 HONOR CODES The Path: “Inspired from the Castaka clan’s warrior code, For more information on applying Honor Codes in the Bushitaka requires of those who choose this path to the Metabarons Roleplaying Game, see pages 90–94 of behave like a warrior in combat and in all of life’s circum- the rule book. For tips on gamemastering Honor Codes, stances. And, for a warrior, the highest virtue, the objective see pages 4–18 of the Compaion Book to the Game Mas- that he must aim for in all circumstances is victory.” ter Screen. Achievement: The obligation to be victorious, to defeat one’s enemies, demands a warrior’s bravery and courage, FUGA of course, but also and above all, great clairvoyance in The Path: “Escape is the most accomplished expres- the use of his qualities. “Courage is of no service to a sion of the art of evasion. There is less glory in confront- warrior if he exposes it and dies without having tri- ing the enemy front on then to feint and avoid him. In- umphed.” The warrior must never cease adapting him- famy is only ever in the end action and in no case is it in self, to be like water that runs and bypasses obstacles. He the means employed.” The Fuga consists of three great must know how to penetrate into the enemy’s mind and techniques, almost three schools: cam- intentions, evaluate their forces, never ouflage, encystment and escape. All overestimate his own, and be humble have their advantages and disadvan- The Hero’s in battle, as well as in victory. Here tages, but at the highest degree of mas- Crucible again, there are innumerable nuances, tery, all three techniques can accomplish Whether in the midst of an since one can, by selection, opt for veritable miracles. Endocity, the Necro-Dream’s brute force or bank on strategy and Achievement: Observation of the domain of predilection in- technique. Fuga code requires of those who em- stilled by the Techno- Reward: Respecting the require- brace this path to avoid every form of Technos, or in any of the ments of Bushitaka conduct leads the confrontation at all cost, to bring the other numerous places warrior to a greater and greater mas- art of subterfuge to its highest level, to where human life is to be tery of the science of combat, followed camouflage, and to sham. This demand- found, there exists a notion by new dimensions in the art of con- ing path should not be likened to cow- of values that motivates cer- frontation. This could be instanta- ardliness, because he who slips away tain individuals to excel, liv- neous understanding of tactical de- does not deny the risk. He appropri- ing in harmony with their mands for a given situation, or better, ates it and controls it. The range of convictions, getting closer the ability to confront several adver- choices is very large as it goes from loyal and closer every day to an saries, armed or unarmed, with the evasion to the most absolute treachery. ideal of perfection. This phi- tranquil certainty that each blow will Reward: The respect of the Fuga code losophy is called the honor inflict mortal injury, or at least inca- is a source of harmony. When one ad- code, for it calls upon the pacitating wounds. The accomplished heres to this path in a subtle and judi- most noble of feelings and warrior, whose Amarax is grand, cious manner, the physical and spiritual constitutes, in the eyes of its achieves a form of serenity where ad- heart are in communion and Amarax followers a veritable moral versity is no longer an obstacle on grows. A new dimension of Fuga opens obligation. There are several destiny’s road. up then, and one accedes to techniques different honor codes, for ex- Positive Actions of combat, cunning and escape that are ample the Fuga, which advo- + Conquer fear. Enforce a perma- more and more rich and effective. For cates a certain form of cow- nent discipline upon oneself in order the grand initiates, they can achieve, for ardly behavior and the vir- to always have it under control. example, invisibility, not by transforma- tues of flight, or Veritas, + Defeat the adversary. Deploy all tion undergone by the body structure, which encourages the search one’s efforts, go to the limit of one’s but by mastery of suggestion, vibratory for truth and the exposure of forces, and still find the resources to emanations and cataleptic hypnosis. secrets; but all the codes make him fold. Faced with an adver- Positive Actions seem to lead their followers sary that is too strong, one must wait + Act with discretion. Be efficient towards a spiritual illumina- for the moment to strike and seize him. without being seen. tion and total fulfillment. + Beat obstacles. Trials are nothing; + Know how to wait, in the shadows, one can overcome them or ,when for the opportune moment for action. needed, circumvent them. Negative Actions

119 • Amarax and the Necro-Dream - Be overcome with fear and be- The Path of it have thus an obligation to come dominated by it. Enlightenment tell the facts as they are, to re- - Resign oneself to defeat. Accept Honor Codes are not strict veal, and to let the whole of the resignation and lose one’s soul in do- rules that must be followed reality be known. ing so. blindly. On the contrary, one Achievement: A demanding path, - Indefinitely waste one’s efforts in might combine several differ- the Veritas Honor Code requires its a vain combat. ent elements from two codes. followers to pursue the truth, not for PALEO-NOBILIS In that case, one code is still its appropriation, but on the con- The Path: “Resurgence of the paleo- dominant. For example, trary to let the truth be defused and knights’ ancient code, the Paleo- warriors following the path let it be known. In reality, the fol- Nobilis is a thankless and constrain- of the Bushitaka might take lower does not naively impose the ing path that requires of those who on some traits found in the code upon himself by revealing every- chose it to respect the rules and prin- Fuga code, in various degrees where and in any circumstance what ciples of loyalty, humility and sacri- that they determine freely. In he is thinking. He can lie, conceal, and fice.” Of course, the demands and pre- that case they are adding the even betray, if it is necessary to protect rogatives that are tied to this Honor art of discretion and effi- what is being hidden. Because the ob- Code can give way to many interpre- ciency to the path of glory, jective, the purpose of this commit- tations, and if some see there the in- perhaps becoming warriors ment, is to unearth that which is being tention to revive a haughty grandeur of the night that are never conjured and hidden, to show the se- that privileges a subject’s protection in seen, great warriors, though cret, dark side of things. The only thing exchange for his submission, others see their faces are never revealed. that counts is bringing false truths out it as the more “paladin” approach of Even within this original into the light of day, the denunciation the valiant life. The Paleo-Nobilis code code mix, a female warrior of hypocrisy. Taken as a dominant can serve as a guiding principle for in- might add less of the Fuga guiding principle, the Veritas Honor dividuals in all sectors of human ac- than her sister. Code can be crossed with another com- tivity, from the art of war to intellec- A code is truly a personal plimentary code. tual research in passing by disclosure affair, coming from within, Reward: Through the disclosure and and diffusion of information. and not a set of strict rules. broadcasting of the truth, Veritas fol- Achievement: The observation of Every individual defines his lowers fulfill their destiny, find an in- Paleo-Nobilis principles can present own code of honor, elabo- ner harmony and acquire capacities some variations, but generally they are rated around a dominant that are always greater in the areas of associated with the concepts of integ- axis, and traces his own study, research, investigation or analy- rity and honesty, necessitating adher- path. sis, but also according to their compli- ence to a rule of conduct (chastity, mentary code can evolve in the arts of scholarship, defense of the widow and escape, battle, and develop a symbio- the orphan, etc.) and the pursuit of a sis with nature. At an elevated level, quest (deliverance from oppression, search for truth, etc.). the Veritas followers predicative abilities can become veri- Reward: Of course, the simple fact of abiding by the tably miraculous. principles one is given fills the Paleo-Nobilis follower with Positive Actions satisfaction, but in overcoming these compulsory trials, + Tell and search for the truth, that which another con- he also sees his convictions strengthened. His Amarax trives to conceal. grows, and with it the confidence he feels in the sound- + Protect the truth, no matter who bears it or has it in ness of his battles and faith in his acts. With this faith, he his possession. can part the seas… + Spread the truth. Make it be known by the greatest Positive Actions possible number. + Protect the weak, at the risk of one’s life if necessary. Negative Actions + Spurn material possessions and honors. - Be satisfied with the superficial and believe in the cer- + Never lose sight of one’s quest. It comes first, but tainty of facts. never in spite of chosen rules and values. - Allow a truth to be kept under wraps or disappear, Negative Actions taken away by the one who has it in his possession. - Tolerate highly unjust points of view. - Contribute in one way or another in keeping a truth - Be seduced by fame or glory, or be corrupted by concealed. the lures of gain and reward. SKATAWAH - Forget what gives meaning to life. Allow a bending or The Path: “Nature’s harmony is a perfection that must stretching of the precepts by which one is governed. be rediscovered,” a paleo-prophet once said. The VERITAS Skatawah followers search, in everything, for the secret The Path: “The world has the right to know.” That is rhythm of life and strive in all of their acts to be in har- the slogan of the Veritas Honor Code. Those who adopt mony with nature. to a group. It can be any group, for the nature and size Achievement: He who commits to the are of no importance, from the moment that it represents Skatawah way cultivates a deep respect for all an invaluable and unique place to the follower, who would forms of life. He understands the fundamental na- not leave the group for anything in the world. Rayah dis- ture of beings and elements, and assimilates himself ciples have carried their commitment to the highest pos- smoothly into each bio-ecosystem that he crosses. It is sible level when they have been able to forge invisible not an absolute taboo to kill or put an end to life. bonds of complicity with the other members of the group. Death is a part of life, and nature itself through the The group they belong to is a free-will choice, which they hunt and kill shows that death can have a utility. On agree to defend with their life if necessary, and which they the other hand, followers of Skatawah cannot kill are able to protect or aide through their knowledge and Chapter 12 • 120 blindly — end five lives when one life would have suf- competence. The preeminence of the group over the indi- ficed — and not without an imperative reason that jus- vidual must not however be made to the detriment of the tifies the act. Once death has been given, in return it individual’s personality, since on the contrary, the group thanks life: it nourishes the animal with its flesh or re- nourishes and enriches itself from its diversity and origi- turns the ill-intentioned enemy to an eternal rest. In a nality. Discipline is surely not the objective, but rather universe where human greed puts all forms of life every- experiencing an extraordinary complementarity founded where in danger, the Skatawah has a hard time finding its on optimizing the use of all of the members’ capacities, place; the overexploitation of resources and weapons of even the most whimsical. One does not have a sense of mass destruction are painful thorns in his side. But life subjugation to the group, but rather reaps the benefits goes on, and the comprehension of its workings are a from the fruit of free consent, accompanied by a profound source of harmony. will to protect the group. Reward: Due to the harmony that it brings to the heart Reward: In respecting the Rayah code, the group be- of its followers, as well as in their relations with all forms comes a supra-entity whose force would be equal to the of life, great and small, the thankless road of the Skatawah sum of all the forces of which it is composed. The group favors the blossoming of Amarax. With time they acquire becomes a body for which each member is a tremendous fabulous powers, intimately linked to the structure of tool, gifted with autonomy, intelligence, and creativity. nature: the ability to immerse oneself into a habitat’s bio- The collective action of all the members transcends their mass; to move with great speed within surroundings; de- individual capacities. At an elevated stage, communion tect, perceive, and understand all forms of life; and even between the members is such that they can improvise acts, appropriate and reproduce the aptitudes of various forms without consulting one another, and nevertheless show a of life, animals of higher and lower orders. Great Skatawah greater efficiency than talented artists performing a well- initiates, who moreover perceive and decipher residual rehearsed piece. vibrations from dead plants and animals, can in this way Positive Actions acquire the paleo-tiger’s force, paleo-snake’s quickness, + Be open to other members of the group and receptive and mimic Terra Prima’s paleo-phasmids. to their needs. Positive Actions + Accept the constraints of group life and abide by the + Know the surrounding environment by understand- requirements imposed for the group’s survival. ing how it works. + Protect the group and bear hardships and privations + Love and respect all aspects of an environment, and as needed, up to and including the supreme sacrifice. learn to immerse oneself in a habitat without disturbing Negative Actions or disrupting it. - Refuse to fit in and ignore the collective needs of the + Protect every form of life. group. Negative Actions - Prefer one’s own security to the detriment of the group, - Look down upon, despise, or refuse to acknowledge a and protect one’s independence and solitude. habitat’s natural life order. - Abandon the group. Betray it. - Contribute in one way or another to upsetting the AMORH rhythm or balance of a habitat and its surroundings. - Menace a species’ bio-diversity or equilibrium by, for The Path: Mystical concept that has been absent for a example, annihilating its representatives. very long time in this universe, Amorh is only attainable by a few remaining initiates who still understand its mean- RAYA H ing. The Neuro-Emotional priests are without a doubt The Path: “Unity is the invisible bond that links the the last upholders of this code that has sunk into oblivion. scattered elements of a group to one another. It is from Love, peace, and compassion are Amorh ’s key words, a this bond that the diverse elements draw their force.” The triptych that goes beyond sermon and that is demanded Rayahs find a sense of personal fulfilment in their com- of the follower at each and every moment. mitment to the group to which they belong, and grow Achievement: In a universe where even the concept of stronger as the group itself strengthens. peace is an aberration, disciples of Amorh must, before Achievement: Rayah is the path that cannot be taken anything else, rediscover the original meaning of these alone. In fact, this commitment supposes that one belongs words. After a long initiatory journey, they must then cultivate a compassionate spirit and put

121 • Amarax and the Necro-Dream into practice an active pacifism. Even Where and How of free will. Every person under the worst torture (Technos for the Necro-Dream who has fallen under the in- example), an Amorh disciple must con- Operates fluence of the Necro-Dream is nothing more than a lifeless crea- sider his torturer as a victim. Endocity ture, a ship without a sail. The Reward: By observing the precepts of Synthetic drugs. most well-known and visible ex- the Amorh code, the disciple sees his Homeosluts. ample of their action is the Amarax grow very quickly and devel- Hypertele. hypertele, which gives false infor- ops his capacities of resistance and con- Denunciation. mation, manipulates, and keeps viction. At a certain stage, he is even Suicidal tendencies. each and everyone in a dumbstruck able to diffuse the violence around him Major impact. with a simple look and restore peace in state of stupefaction. But they use a number of other weapons: drugs the hearts of those who have submitted Golden Planet (SPV and Cocaloco Dark) manipula- themselves to the whims of hatred. Frequent the Imperial Court. tion and oppression. All of their ac- Positive Actions Major impact. + Work for non violence and peace. tions aim at one target: soil and destroy ideals, as well as hope and love. + Favor peace between different Colonial Planets To be objective, one must recognize forms of life. Frequent ruling circles. the fact that their underhanded and + Protect the weak, encourage one Moderate to major impact. and all to fight against the negations of fiendish schemes are only the exaggerated expression of the immense theatre life, and love even your torturer if it Universe as a Whole that all groups of significance in the must be so. Oppressive legislation. universe — that is to say, Maganats, Negative Actions Hypertele. Colonial planets, and even the Empire – Get carried away; give in to anger Caste system. — perpetually work toward: an estab- and create discord. Moderate to major impact. – Contribute to the propagation of lished position that assures them power hatred, and set different races against and domination. But the Techno- each other. Technos are the only ones to follow a – Create despair by an offhanded, skilfully elaborated plan: the Necro- casual attitude, and condemn the hopeless through Dream. For them, it is not enough to take advantage of negligence. weaknesses. They must nourish them, maintain them, flatter them, and let humanity get carried down the road to THE NECRO-DREAM ruin. However, the Techno-Technos themselves are nothing but cogs in the wheel of an immeasurable dark force that A gigantic Techno-Techno plot to enslave humanity, the surpasses and uses them. In fact, the roots of their colossal Necro-Dream also refers to the dazed and contented stu- power are plunged directly into the Tenebrea’s heart. They por in which it plunges all those who are subjected to its have fantastic powers, but in return, they must work against effects. life and contribute to making the universe, one day, a cold Sworn and implacable enemies of all life forms, the and empty space where infinite night will reign forever. Techno-Technos are not just satisfied with the destruc- The Necro-Dream stretches its tentacles everywhere the tion of the universe’s bio-elements — devastation of plan- Empire asserts its authority. Of course, it is massively ets, conquests, systematic elimination of animal and plant spread throughout all levels of the Endocities, but no planet species which besides, nobody worries about. So they con- is truly spared. Not even the Golden Planet, where greed, duct another form of assault that is even more systematic rapacity, and ambition mix together to make a most fa- and insidious. For if their power is great, it is still not vorable compost for implanting the Necro-Dream. absolute, and they must continue to associate with the As soon as one enters into its sphere of activity, the other powers of the universe — the Empire, Maganats moment that one falls into its web, all the most funda- and Colonial planets. As they cannot implement a radical mental principles upon which one’s deepest convictions and definitive action within everyone’s sight and knowl- rest start to waiver. The slow chipping away, undermin- edge, the Techno-Technos apply a simple and efficient ing of the spirit has begun. The strongest of resolutions strategy: “The river is vast and powerful. We cannot con- blow away like dust in the wind. If exposure lingers on, trol or dry up its flux. But we can poison its source, and and if one does not fight at each and every moment against its polluted waters will spread venom everywhere.” its insidious and persistent action, free will dwindles and Thus, on a cosmic scale, they carry out a plan that aims disappears. And one may end up hazy-eyed, forever riv- to enslave the living forces of the universe. They demean eted before an empty screen. Life will be gone, and one human aspirations, diminish the spirit of adventure, and will be nothing more than a creature of the Tenebrae. stifle at the embryonic stage the smallest demonstration T E C H N O L O G I C A L P R O G R E S S

“Omnipresent” is the only way to describe the promi- The reign of technology ended when the Imperial nence of technology in the modern Empire. It is seen ev- Siamese twins Artaran and Marlana returned. Of course, erywhere, having infiltrated even the most remote regions it remained a valuable asset to the Empire, and none of of space. In the Endocities, where every being and object the Great Pillars would have been foolhardy enough to is submitted to its tyrannical yoke, it even seems to be the suppress it, but the dizzying heights it had attained gradu- creative force that all things spring from. Everywhere ally receded. The Techno-Techno order underwent a pe- humanity extends their eager reach, technology travels riod of disgrace lasting approximately 200 years — a mere with them, then propagates itself. Today, even the least pittance considering they brought the entire soul of the fertile planets devoid of natural resources boast technologi- Universe to the brink of damnation — the Empire’s citi- cal levels that make pre-Empiric times on Terra Prima seem zens somewhat slackened their frantic quest for technol- like the Stone Ages. Indeed, technology is the hallmark and ogy, as if they had learned their lesson. During a short signature of the Human Empire. period of a few dozen years, it even became fashionable to publicly denounce technology and its excesses. Not only THE ROOTS OF MODERN TECHNOLOGY did the Techno-Techno order conspire against humanity Without technology, the Empire would not truly be able in the name of the Tenebrae, but they also produced such to maintain its hold over the worlds it conquers and en- a large quantity of weapons and machinery that no single gulfs. All planets, from the most primitive to those alone of them was truly effective. Their measures and ready endowed with their own form of technology, are counter-measures canceled each other out. forced to conform to the technological standards of the At that point, it became clear to both the Techno- benevolent Empire… or incur its righteous wrath. Technos and the Empire that a high level of technology Clearly, technology plays a significant role in the life of did not necessarily provide greater efficiency. The C.I.S. the Human Empire. Naturally, humans constantly seek realized that a technology that was too-highly sophisti- the greater convenience that mechanization provides, but cated might even sound the death-knell for its aspirations; the link is deeper and more profound. The reverence paid if it became too specific, it would grow outdated and hence to holy technology is almost a form of worship. It must lose the interest of its faithful followers. On the other hand, not be forgotten that the Church of the Industrial Saints the Empire saw that any technology that became too com- is the official religion of the Empire, and technology is its plex would no longer be under its control. Little by little, prophet. An overabundance of technological products suits as the twenty-fourth millennium rolled in, their attitudes its interests, and their use is considered an act of devotion toward technology reached an equilibrium, which has and allegiance. lasted until today. The Church of the Industrial Saints does So the Techno-Techno order brought technology to the not divulge all its marvels, but neither does it take advan- Empire, and the Empire was grateful. But relations between tage of its prominent position. In exchange, the Empire the two groups have often been strained. In fact, for the uses some of the C.I.S.’s technology, shares a number of 107 years between 23124 and 23231, they were downright its secrets, and allows the order to occupy an influential hostile. Those years constituted the Techno-Techno inter- presence at all levels of society, without damning it to regnum. The Imperial government went into exile, and the disrepute. At the present time, all institutions of power Church of the Industrial Saints thought itself powerful utilize some level of technology, and the C.I.S. considers enough to take the reins of the Empire’s destiny into its this a more subtle approach to infiltrating the entire uni- hands. Never before or since had technology been so mighty. verse. On the other hand, the average technological level Then again, never before had it shown no longer extends to the height of its true face to such a degree. During that atrocities experienced by the poor citi- era of absolute power of the Techno- Commercial zens who lived during the 107 years Technos, the conspiracy of the Tenebrae Break of Techno-Techno rule. stretched its dark shadow over all do- More perforating, more DEVELOPMENT AND mains. The contempt it exhibited toward explosive, the new protonic all forms of biological life manifested it- cavity heads are finally avail- INNOVATIONS self in an avalanche of technological sys- able on the black market! Clearly, the Church of the Industrial tems and devices designed to subjugate This month’s special offer: Saints is still the most active participant humans instead of liberate them. They buy ten charges and get a free in the field of research and development had already reached the point that no micro-camera gift with pur- of new applications. Within their gigan- human soul could understand all their chase!! Try them on your tic factory-labs, the Techno-Technos workings, and still more technological wife: the best explosions will continue their patient work of unlock- marvels were arriving every day. The be broadcast Empire-wide. ing the technological secrets imparted coming of the Tenebrae was at hand, and by the Ophidiat, their custodian. They the Magnus Dei opened the gates for it. never maintain a significant lead over other researchers

123 • Technological Progress Cogano II in the galaxy, ex- ing rays. These artillery units, distributed in a cept when a new ring around Neo-Knox, can shoot a vibrating cone Cogana II is a small planet phenomenon is re- that instantly converts any water molecule within it in the Whakk system, owned vealed to them, set- to hydrogen and oxygen atoms. The weapons are only by the family of the Poly- ting off an ever-ex- considered to have a limited range — in outer space, a Romanoffs. Under its leaden panding circle of few hundred kilometers in wide beam and a few thou- sky stretch the sinister shapes technical knowl- sand kilometers in narrow beam; in atmosphere, only of the giga-factories and their edge. The C.I.S. a hundred meters wide at the maximum — but those ventilation pipes, shrouded pioneers all fields estimates are purely theoretical because the weapons in ash-gray smoke. Night and of technology and have never been used. This paradox arises from Bemb’s day, security craft cut invents devices for concerns. He acknowledges the need to protect himself, through the sky in slow and all types of work. but he dislikes the idea of mindlessly disrupting life in ponderous flight. On the However, these the universe. However, the few other vessels of the ground, Endoguard patrols ambitious and var- Ekonomat that are also equipped with these weapons give accompanied by their beasts ied projects do not every indication that they wouldn’t hesitate in the slight- — vicious native varans with lead them to ne- est to use them if the need arose. drooling jaws — maintain a glect the more es- vigilant guard. In the un- sential fields of THE HYPERINDUSTRIAL ERA likely occurrence that any weapons and living thing penetrates the At the same time, thanks to its almost inexhaustible transport, which positronic shields, they have financial resources, the Ekonomat simply acquires any present a greater orders to kill on sight. For means of technology as the need arises. Both its merce- opportunity. How- this is where the multi-cogan nary and regular troops are constantly supplied with the ever, they are not is made, weapon of the elite best in vehicles, vessels, weapons, instruments of detec- the only competi- troops of the Empire. tion and other various equipment. Since they maintain a tors in this arena massive presence in all corners of the universe, this also — all four Great helps contribute to the spread of technology. Pillars of the Em- Among the other Great Pillars of the Empire, many pire contribute to Maganats have be- military technology in one way or another. But the Ophidiat come specialized in gives the Techno-Technos a significant edge, which allows industry and heavy Gangez and the them to make the greatest contributions to the Empire. For production. On Supra-technology example, it was the Ophidiat who gave them the means to their hyperindus- Of all of the guardians in install Techno-Tunnels all over the universe. These passage- trial planets and the Universe, Gangez is the ways through the fabric of space instantly join together systems, the weap- only one who is completely points that would otherwise remain forever separated. More ons and equipment melded into another indi- than 18,000 Techno-Tunnels are currently in use. But it was of the Endoguard vidual. Since then, the Meta- not for the sake of altruism that the C.I.S. put this technol- are produced. baron contains Gangez, but ogy to the Empire’s service. Without them, the universe They do not invent the metawarrior’s personal- would be nothing but a conflicting jumble, over which noth- the technology, of ity is so powerful that the ing could rule — not even the Tenebrae. What’s more, as course, but they guardian within him has to long as they hold complete control over the tunnels, the develop the manu- take a back seat. The Meta- Techno-Technos possess a tremendous weapon and a sig- facturing process, baron therefore has extraor- nificant means of pressure over the Empire. as well as install dinary capacities and secrets Because of this advantage, the Techno-Technos do not and maintain the at his disposal, without any have to strain their talents in order to remain the undis- machinery. Hence, influence over his true na- puted masters of technology. But there are many special- they end up acquir- ture. It is for this reason that ized fields in which it would be a grave mistake to disre- ing substantial he can draw at will from gard the contributions of other players. knowledge con- these powers to create, for For example, the Ekonomat, that discreet and suppos- cerning all these example, the Metabaronic edly nonpartial organization, also maintains an army of devices of death. weapons. researchers, mostly based on Neo-Knox. They may not But the Bemb similarly transmit- have access to a source of revelation of technological prow- Maganats do not ted his secrets to a recipient ess that the Techno-Technos do, and nothing comes freely limit themselves to who equally received a form to them. However, they have access to a source of incred- mere production; of wisdom and elevated con- ible power through Bemb, the custodian of the Per-Beod they are also consciousness, but whose spirit gate. They may not understand all the principles behind sumers. Thanks to acts in accordance with it, but the small fraction they do know how to use gives their countless for- Bemb’s wisdom. them an impressive arsenal, to say the least. For instance, tunes, they buy ev- they have tremendous defense batteries of hyperdesiccat- erything that gener- NEW TECHNOLOGY alized or specialized technology can offer, and in endless quantities. Their palaces flow with gold The authorities are hostile to any new technology, even and technological devices, and they surround them- while they take advantage of it. They try to steal or buy it selves with useless trinkets and marvels. Thanks to for their own and to suppress it elsewhere. There is a whole the frenetic and compulsive lifestyle of the great fami- game just in data piracy and data legging. lies, the holy technology is further spread. NTERSIDEREAL OYAGE The Colonial planets have fewer resources and do not I V contribute nearly as much to the expansion of technol- Intersidereal travel is exclusively practiced through ogy. Nevertheless, they make up for their lack of resources hyperpropulsion and the use of Techno-Tunnels, also Chapter 13 • 124 by bringing all their energy to the task. Their technology known as Interstellar Tunnels. Any traveler leaving one is far from sophisticated, but they produce it in massive planet for another must access the closest Tunnel. First amounts. Their history overflows with examples of a single the traveler makes a “jump” into hyperspace to reach the device produced in hundreds of millions of units. For ex- Tunnel. The length of the jump varies and is calculated in ample, to ensure the defense of their “revolutionary” gains, hours (h) or days (d) of voyage. Once he uses a Tunnel, it they have manufactured flabbergasting quantities of their will instantaneously “teletransport” him to any other Tun- Poly-AKA 4 assault rifle. This weapon has some weak points nel in the universe. The traveler then has to make a last — it is extremely basic, like a farmer’s weapon. But its lack “jump” into hyperspace to reach his final destination. of sophistication also offers an advantage: it is reliable in all Example: If you leave Planet Baggdathi, it will take 3 environments, and if it does fail, a few teflo-plastic fibers hours (3h) to reach the closest Tunnel with a “jump.” will suffice to repair it. Most of the outlying worlds are Once in the Tunnel, you can reach any other Interstellar completely saturated with it, as it is the symbol of the struggle Tunnel (t). of all the Empire’s rebels, who praise it effusively. While the Great Pillars carry out TUNNELS AND SPACEPORTALS “official” activities of research and INTERSTELLAR TUNNELS production, there are also the pirates The Techno – living on the underseam of society Interstellar Tunnels link all portals Tunnels’ Infallibility across the same system, or from one sys- who contribute in their own way to Some would be tempted to the advance of science and technol- tem to another. You can enter a depar- attribute the C.I.S.’s asser- ture portal and exit from any portal in ogy. Their means are unlimited, and tions that their Interstellar they also use the services of the “de- the same system or any other system in Tunnels are absolutely safe, the same galaxy. To enter the portal of fused” Mentreks who take protection to pure and simple boasting, in their ranks. Without the slightest an Interstellar Tunnel, you must show pointing out that a regular proof of having a special entry authori- help from any spiritual source, they transport vehicle had re- use their ingenuity to develop ma- zation pass from the Techno-Technos, cently disappeared in one of which costs 200 kublars. chines and devices that can fight off those Tunnels, entering with- the technology developed by the out ever having been seen INTERGALACTIC TUNNELS Techno-Technos, and thus fight off again. The truth of this as- Intergalactic Tunnels work in exactly the Necro-Dream. For example, their sertion has been confirmed the same manner as the Interstellar Tun- bionic prostheses are absolutely reli- by the transport company’s nels, except that they allow voyage form able, unfettered by the all-powerful mentrek accountant. This one galaxy to the next (marked by a T influence of the Church of the Indus- said, the explanation is quite on the map). A travel accreditation costs trial Saints, and any mechanical de- simple. The Techno-Tunnels 500 kublars. vice they make runs no risk of being have integrated into their Note: an Interstellar Tunnel (t) can taken over by the Techno-Technos. system an extremely precise only take you to another Interstellar Tun- Finally, all the ordinary popula- regulation mechanism that nel, while an Intergalactic Tunnel (T) can tions consume and use vast quanti- limits the number of vessels take you to any Tunnel in the universe. ties of machines and other various simultaneously present in the This is the reason why it is at times nec- gadgets. None of them may under- same section of the tunnel. essary to take an Interstellar Tunnel to stand how all these marvels really If, for one reason or another, reach a “galactic crossroads” where all function, but they have accepted this maximum number is sorts of equipment and services for re- them into their lifestyle nonetheless. reached , the internal system mote expeditions are available on orbital Not a day goes by without some de- automatically eliminates the stations, as well as an entrance to an In- vice making up for human weak- surplus, in the inverse order tergalactic Tunnel. nesses and flaws. Complacent in their of accreditation. This ex- natural laziness, humankind eagerly plains the disappearing ves- TYPES OF WORLDS embraces anything that helps keep sel, and finally, isn’t it reas- THE MAJOR WORLDS them from hard work or any kind of suring to know….? difficult task. Every planet and group of planets located no more than five hours maximum 125 • Technological Progress Example: Planet Marmola

EXOFRINGE WORLDS Every planet and group of planets located at the exterior of the Fringe — frontier of the Empire. Example: Planet TER 21, Sector 669 of the Exofringe.

WORLDS OF THE BORDERS All planets and group of planets located at the confines of the Universe. Example: Planet Aquaend. TRAVEL BETWEEN PLANETS All planets are indexed in terms of distance, in hours and days of voyage to a neighboring Tunnel. For example, the planet Demos is listed as “4dt.” This signifies: • that it takes four days of hyperspatial travel to reach the closest Interstellar Tunnel (t) • that Demos is a minor world, for it is less than five days from a Tunnel entrance. If you want to go from Demos to Baggdathi, it will take you 4 days and 3 hours, and cost 200 kublars to use the Interstellar Tunnel. In this chapter, you will find a list of the most well known planets. Using this same local- ization principle, you can situate any known star, or even those that are to be discovered.

Planet Alix III: 14dt — exo-fringe world, independent. Planet Aquaend: 27dt — universe- border world, prison. Planet Badmech: 4,30ht — major world, Maganat (Kama-Ming). Planet Barnab: 11dt — distant world, semi-independent. Planet Del Rey III: 17dt — exofringe world, Colonial. Planet Dreer: 2ht — major world, Industrial Maganat. by hyperspace jump from a Tunnel portal. Planet Gargan IV: 4dt — minor world, hallucinogenic Example: Golden Planet mushrooms. THE MINOR WORLDS Planet Garligue: 37dt — universe-border world, Every planet and group of planets located no more than elephantodontes. five days maximum by hyperspace jump from a Tunnel Planet Geidig: 7dt — distant world, sirens. portal. War Star: Unknown. Example: Planet Del Rey III. Planet Laylin: 3hT — major world, Maganat. Planet Summit: 9dt — distant world, Colonial. DISTANT WORLDS Every planet and group of planets located more than five days by hyperspace jump from a Tunnel portal. 16d 21dt,T,5h

Chapter 13 • 126

ORLDS

ELECT

HART

Planet Planet Planet Ice Floe Prima

RAVEL

X 4dT,3h 4dT,4d 4dT,2d 4dT,21d 4dT,1h 4dT,7d 4dT,2h 4dT,15d 4dT,2d 4dT,3d 4dT,24d 4dT,1h 4dT,9d 4dT,16d 4dT,5h

1hT,4d 1ht,3h 1ht,4d 1ht,2d 1hT,21d X 1hT,7d 1ht,2h 1ht,15d 1ht,2d 1ht,3d 1ht,24d 1hT,1h 1hT,9d 1ht,16d 1ht,5h

1hT,4d 1hT,3h 1hT,4d 1hT,2d 1hT,21d 1hT,1h 1hT,7d 1hT,2h 1hT,15d 1hT,2d 1hT,3d 1hT,24d X 24dt,T,9d 1hT,16d 1hT,5h

3ht,T,4d X 3ht,4d 3ht,2d 3ht,T,21d 3ht,1h 3ht,T,7d 3ht,2h 3ht,15d 3ht,2d 3ht,3d 3ht,24d 3ht,T,1h 3ht,T,9d 3ht,16d 3ht,5h 4dt,T,4d 4dt,3h X 4dt,2d 4dt,T,21d 4dt,1h 4dt,T,7d 4dt,2h 4dt,15d 4dt,2d 4dt,3d 4dt,24d 4dt,T,1h 4dt,T,9d 4dt,16d 4dt,5h 2dt,T,4d 2dt,3h 2dt,4d X 2dt,T,21d 2dt,1h 2dt,T,7d 2dt,2h 2dt,15d 2dt,2d 2dt,3d 2dt,24d 2dt,T,1h 2dt,T,9d 2dt,16d 2dt,5h

7dt,T,4d 7dt,T,3h 7dt,T,4d 7dt,T,2d 7dt,T,21d 7dt,T,1h X 7dt,T,2h 7dt,T,15d 7dt,T,2d 7dt,T,3d 7dt,T,24d 7dt,T,1h 7dt,T,9d 7dt,T,16d 7dt,T,5h 2ht,T,4d 2ht,3h 2ht,4d 2ht,2d 2ht,T,21d 2ht,1h 2ht,T,7d X 2ht,15d 2ht,2d 2ht,3d 2ht,24d 2ht,T,1h 2ht,T,9d 2ht,16d 2ht,5h

2dt,T,4d 2dt,3h 2dt,4d 2dt,2d 2dt,T,21d 2dt,1h 2dt,T,7d 2dt,2h 2dt,15d X 2dt,3d 2dt,24d 2dt,T,1h 2dt,T,9d 2dt,16d 2dt,5h 3dt,T,4d 3dt,3h 3dt,4d 3dt,2d 3dt,T,21d 3dt,1h 3dt,T,7d 3dt,2h 3dt,15d 3dt,2d X 3dt,24d 3dt,T,1h 3dt,T,9d 3dt,16d 3dt,5h

9dt,T,4d 9dt,T,3h 9dt,T,4d 9dt,T,2d 9dt,T,21d 9dt,T,1h 9dt,T,7d 9dt,T,2h 9dt,T,15d 9dt,T,2d 9dt,T,3d 9dt,T,24d 9dt,T,1h X 9dt,T,16d 9dt,T,5h

5ht,T,4d 5ht,3h 5ht,4d 5ht,2d 5ht,T,21d 5ht,1h 5ht,T,7d 5ht,2h 5ht,15d 5ht,2d 5ht,3d 5ht,24d 5ht,T,1h 5ht,T,9d 5ht,16d X

21dt,T,4d 21dt,T,3h 21dt,T,4d 21dt,T,2d X 21dt,T,1h 21dt,T,7d 21dt,T,2h 21dt,T,15d 21dt,T,2d 21dt,T,3d 21dt,T,24d 21dt,T,1h 21dt,T,9d 21dt,T,

15dt,T,4d 15dt,3h 15dt,4d 15dt,2d 15dt,T,21d 15dt,1h 15dt,T,7d 15dt,2h X 15dt,2d 15dt,3d 15dt,24d 15dt,T,1h 15dt,T,9d 15dt,16d 15dt,5h

24dt,T,4d 24dt,3h 24dt,4d 24dt,2d 24dt,T,21d 24dt,1h 24dt,T,7d 24dt,2h 24dt,15d 24dt,2d 24dt,3d X 24dT,1h 2ht,4d 24dt,3h 24dt,5h

16dt,T,4d 16dt,3h 16dt,4d 16dt,2d 16dt,T,21d 16dt,1h 16dt,T,7d 16dt,2h 16dt,15d 16dt,2d 16dt3d 16dt,24d 16dt,T,1h 16dt,T,9d X 16dt,5h

Arh&Rah Baggdathi Sec-Hum Filodendra GPM* Golden Gzagn Hospital Marmola Nibal Okhar Perdita Central Puzzeline Stellar Terra

Arh & Rah Baggdathi Sec-Hum Filodendra GPM* Golden Planet Gzagn Hospital Planet Marmola Nibal Okhar Perdita Central Planet Puzzeline Stellar Ice Floe Terra Prima Terra *Galactic Platform Masses W E A P O N S

If there is one field in which even the laziest and most of soldiers in battle has been improved as well, but the unmotivated humans will take an interest, it is of course the offensive weapons still maintain a great advantage. For field of warfare. The whole universe shares a genuine pas- example, two multi-cogans mounted on the back of an sion for devices of death and power, not only because they old glider vehicle, outfitted with automatic targeting for feed the murderous instinct that is always alive and well in greater efficiency, can boast firepower equivalent to that humans, but also because they serve the coming of the Necro of a basic tank. Once all the various existing options are Dream. Directly or indirectly, the Church of the Industrial introduced — night vision, laser sighting, automatic tar- Saints is by far the largest arms dealer in the universe. The get acquisition, to name only the most common — the sale of arms helps build their capital. At the same time, by range of possibilities suddenly seems endless. acclimating people to a culture of death, the arms contrib- Another significant improvement is the considerable ute to the Tenebrae and its struggle against life. But the uni- widening of the range of ammunition. The destructive verse never shies from a paradox, and these same weapons effect of traditional arms is multiplied many times by the that help spread death and destruction are also a crucial introduction of different kinds of energy — plasma is ideal key to freedom, independence, and rebellion. for clearing an entire area, laser rays burn and incinerate, Whether it be poaching suicides for sport, hunting in- Gauss-type electromagnetism disrupts both the electro- surgents on a Maganat paradise planet, defending oneself neurological balance of living creatures and the stability in a hostile environment in outer space or a newly colo- of electronic machinery, and sonic energy upsets the atomic nized planet, keeping order inside an Endocity or on some cohesion of whatever it encounters. far-off planet, creating chaos and confusion in those same locations, or repelling strange creatures, a pirate band, or MULTI-COGAN a squad of galacto-barbarians at the outer edges of the Most recent product of the Empire’s official armory, universe, the demand for heavy artillery is never lacking. the multi-cogan has been used to equip the Endoguard And the range of choice is vast indeed… troops for some time now. It is a devastating weapon, in some ways the ultimate synthesis of all previous forms of HEAVY ARTILLERY heavy artillery put together. Indeed, it combines the pow- Because they offer the greatest power to portability ra- erful effect of a traditional weapon with all other types of tio, guns of this type are the most prized across the whole energy: plasma, laser, gauss, and even sonic. Suitable for Empire by amateurs and professionals alike. Thanks to any type of combat, it suits the infantry’s needs perfectly, new synthetic materials developed by the Church of the also featuring a vibro-bayonet for hand-to-hand combat Industrial Saints — in particular the range of teflo-metal and a rocket-launcher option that renders the hard-to- plastics — these weapons have seen their weight drasti- carry mortars obsolete. cally reduced while still maintaining a deadly lethality. Conceived, designed, and developed by the research Considering that just one of them is enough to eradicate department of the Church of the Industrial Saints, the an unprotected crowd in an instant, it is amazing that multi-cogan is manufactured on the industrial planet they hardly weigh anything at all. Aside from these ex- Cogana II, in the Whakk system, owned by the family of traordinary advances, they have also undergone all kinds the Poly-Romanoffs. Despite a fairly high volume of proof different improvements. First of all, impact force has duction, this weapon remains difficult to obtain, because been considerably increased. Intelligent ammunition was sales are strictly monitored. Wholesale, it costs nearly introduced to classic projectile weapons at the time of the 3,500 kublars, but its price on the black market can reach Empire’s origins, making a humble bullet into an ultra- staggering heights, and possessing one without a license devastating machine. Today, with all the improvements results in the penalty of instant death. to the firing charges, a traditional firearm can propel a Technical Specifications: Ninety-two centimeters long round of unstable heavy metal — enriched Tranekkon for without the vibro-bayonet, an unloaded multi-cogan only the most part — at almost 20,000 kilometers per second, weighs 376 grams. An energy cartridge — for 150 plasma, which means they instantly generate a maximum kinetic laser, sonic, or Gauss shots — adds 127 grams to its total effect at the point of impact, leaving behind them a flight weight. A cartridge of traditional ammunition, on the other path strewn with the most spectacular waste products. hand, will weigh much more. A cartridge of one hundred Even the smallest-caliber lady’s handgun can make an entry twenty .753 caliber rounds can weigh between 653 and 892 hole the size of a golden kublar and an exit hole as big as grams, depending on the metal in question. There is an ex- the turbine of a heavy battleship. tremely wide range of grenade and rocket options, and the In addition, the projectiles’ range has also been drasti- weight of each cartridge averages around 700 grams. All cally improved. Today, they can cover a few dozen kilome- traditional multi-cogan ammunition comes in a “dum-dum” ters in standard gravity, which means that a man control- format, which has an absolutely devastating effect. On the ling one or more weapons can carry out a light infantry automatic setting, the rate of fire is 1,200 shots per minute, tactical operation entirely on his own. Of course, the armor which means the weapon needs to be fed at very high speed. COGAN 78 There is a switch to change it Epyphite Intermediate model between the from the automatic to a single- Counter-Balancing cogan 45 and the multi-cogan, the cogan shot setting, and also to change This is an extremely deli- 78 corrects some of the deficiencies of between energy modes. When one cate operation consisting of the model it replaces, most notably reload is empty, it will automatically introducing one or a few introducing traditional high-impact switch to the next. And finally, no molecules of this precious rounds. Nonetheless, unlike the multi- matter what caliber is being used, substance into the weapons cogan in which the different modes are epyphite counter-balancing totally to eliminate certain debilitat- perfectly interchangeable, the cogan 78 eliminates the effect of recoil. Fire

Chapter 14 • 128 ing characteristics such as cannot claim true versatility. Although Rate: 3 (laser); 1 (mini-grenade). weight or recoil. Determin- it can fire both traditional rounds and Range: 3-75/150/300 (laser); 5-25/100/ ing the precise quantity and energy charges, it cannot switch auto- 200 (mini-grenade). Damage: 6D (la- positioning of the epiphyte matically between the two modes, and ser); 4D+2 (mini-grendae); STR+1D+2 requires calculations that it takes approximately ten seconds to (vibro-bayonet). only a few hyperspecialized switch it over manually. In addition to Price: Officially — 3,400 kublars. Mentreks can carry out. The this shortcoming, the choice of caliber On the black market — astronomical. slightest error will render the is limited (it cannot shoot rockets or gre- Availability: Almost nil. The weapon weapon unusable, by keep- nades), while its energy is highly ineffi- is mostly unavailable and unauthorized ing it angled downwards or cient: each cartridge only provides ownership is punishable by instant death. upwards, or sending it drift- power for 50 laser shots. Reliability: No mechanical failure ing into the air, devoid of all Technical Specifications: Weighing has ever been reported. weight. 1,245 grams and measuring a meter COGAN 45 long, the cogan 78 certainly improves The cogan 45 is a much simpler on the cogan 45, but does not even ap- weapon than the multi-cogan, and proach the perfection attained by its suc- much more easily obtainable on the arms market. Its lim- cessor. Its cartridge of one hundred .753 caliber traditional ited range of ammunition makes it a less-sophisticated rounds ensures sufficient firepower, although the rapid-fire weapon, and not as effective. At the time of its introduc- setting only allows three-shot bursts. Without epyphite tion, it was thought that plasma cartridges represented counter-balancing, it has a strong recoil that makes it diffi- the most advanced type of firepower, but it soon became cult to use over a long period of time. In energy mode, its clear that different types of energy would suit different performance is comparable to that of the cogan 45. Fire combat situations. Although there are scenarios where Rate: 1. Range: 3-50/90/200 (traditional); 3-50/100/250 (en- the cogan 45 is ideal, it demonstrates its limitations in all ergy). Damage: 3D+2 (traditional); 4D+2 (energy). Note: other cases. That said, coming face to face with a plasma Every 10 rounds, user receives a cumulative -1D penalty to shot is never a pleasant experience. It is a contest from his firearms skill for fatigue. which the human body rarely emerges victorious. Price: Once the multi-cogan was put into production, Despite its drawbacks, the cogan 45 is a godsend to manufacture of the cogan 78 was halted — which is not companies of mercenaries, pirate hordes, the standing the case with the cogan 45. Therefore, it is no longer offi- army of the Colonial planets and bands of motivated cially sold. However, it has not yet become rare, so its Psycho-Anarchists. black market cost is still affordable. A cogan 78 in good Technical Specifications: Measuring 107 centimeters over- condition will go for 2,000 kublars. all, it weighs 352 grams without energy cartridges. It pre- Availability: As an intermediary model, it was not in sents a very different appearance to the multi-cogan, com- production for a very long time. So it is not available in ing in the shape of a long tube. The rear part rests atop the large quantities. At the same time, it is not in very high shooter’s shoulder — like a rocket-launcher — with the aim- demand, so it is easy to find in stock. ing device and trigger in front. Each cartridge provides power Reliability: Its relatively low level of complexity ensures for 100 shots, but the gun can accommodate preloading of exceptional reliability. up to three cartridges. It takes between two and three sec- INTEGRATED 1K8 GUN onds to reload the weapon. Fire Rate: 1. Range: 3-50/100/ 300. Damage: 5D. The Integrated 1K8 is a weapon for the strong only. Price: Sold officially at a price of 1,200 kublars, the Just handling it requires considerable force. But in ex- cogan 45 sells on the black market at a price varying ac- change, it also performs at a very high standard. cording to its condition. Depending on what rounds are used, the Integrated 1K8 Availability: Optimal. Produced in enormous quanti- can theoretically penetrate any type of armor, except of ties, it is available in every corner of the Empire, although course White Netranekkon. Despite its heavy weight, it is ownership is of course regulated. a strong and reliable weapon that almost always delivers Reliability: Excellent reliability overall, but some prob- and often tips the balance in any exchange. lems with its energy cartridges have been reported, espe- Technical Specifications: From stock to muzzle, the In- cially in moist environments. tegrated 1K8 only measures ninety-six centimeters, but it weighs 5,241 grams unloaded. Since it is 129 • Weapons equipped with three barrels of different caliber, it can hold three cartridges. A 600-round cartridge weighs 1,153 grams in the small-caliber .753, 1,546 grams in the medium-caliber .951, and 2,268 grams in the mammoth caliber 19. For the larger caliber, rounds of enriched Tranekkon are available, whose effect is comparable to a small ballistic missile. The total weight of the gun is about ten kilos. Mercifully, the weapon is equipped with epyphite counter-balancing, without which it would not be humanly possible to operate. A dual switch on the stock allows the alternation between one caliber and another, and from rapid-fire mode to single-shot mode. It is theoretically possible to fire all three barrels at once. Some have claimed to use all three barrels at once in rapid-fire Cogan 45 mode, but no witness has ever confirmed this assertion. Fire Rate: 1. Range: 3-30/80/250. Damage: 3D+2 (small caliber); 5D (medium caliber); 9D (large caliber). Price: Officially, the Integrated 1K8 costs the same as the multi-cogan, but there is a much longer waiting period to acquire it. This limited-edition weapon is sold extremely infrequently. On the black market, its price reaches mind-boggling heights. Many pirates, gang warlords, and other outlaws have announced that they have bought one for 10,000 kublars or more. Availability: Minimal. This item is normally unavailable and unauthorized ownership results in instant death. Only a true outlaw would even consider possessing one. Cogan 78 Reliability: No type of mechanical failure has ever been reported. SONIC BAZOOKA, OR “HEAVY SONIC” Created by civilian technology, this powerfully destructive energy weapon emits precisely focused wave- beams that disrupt the atomic cohesion of solid bodies. At its inception, it was used in mining operations as a replacement for explosives, but humankind’s creative genius quickly found other applications for it. Since Multi-cogan then, the sonic bazooka is standard equipment for all infantry units. Although unusable in extra-atmospheric environments, the damage it does to pressurized environments is substantial. Any poor unprotected soul in the path of a violent sonic-wave will feel his skull explode instantly, before he has any chance of escape. Without countermeasures, no armor can resist it. An internal spectrometric analyzer determines the optimal frequency to disrupt the internal structure of matter. Technical Specifications: With a length of 150 centimeters and a weight of 7,256 grams — 9,198 with the tripod — the sonic bazooka is somewhat unwieldy. However, it is not specifically designed for individual use, but more as a support weapon for a division of troops. In the Empire, the usual estimate is one sonic for every ten fighters. A powerful and effective weapon, Integrated 1K8 Gun the sonic also uses a lot of energy, because one energy cartridge is only enough for 10 shots. Fire Rate: 1. Range: 3-50/100/200. Damage: 9D Price: With an official price of 2,600 kublars, it is much more expensive on the black market, for it is a rare and highly prized weapon. Availability: Minimal. Sale of this weapon is prohibited to civilians. Local militia is often equipped with it. It is also fairly common to find industrial versions adapted from their original design to a military capacity. Chapter 14 • 130 Reliability: As a product of time-tested technology, the sonic bazooka is absolutely reliable. DISINTEGRATOR 48 Official weapon of the Hunchback corps, the Prez’s private guard in the Endocities, the disintegrator 48 is the most terrifying single weapon currently available in the Empire. Based on secret technology developed by the Church of the Industrial Saints, it remains under Sonic Bazooka the strict control of the Techno-Technos, because it can only be used by their most brutal henchmen. Although the Hunchbacks use it freely to subdue crowds, it can hardly be considered an anti-riot weapon. Far from dispersing rioters, it simply annihilates them, leaving behind nothing but a pile of steaming corpses. Technical Specifications: Heavy yet compact — 120 centimeters long overall, and weighing 1,268 grams without its energy cartridge — the disintegrator 48 shoots Double Short-Barreled long and highly deadly rays. The ray drastically increases Muira 2K Gun the internal temperature of any organism unfortunate enough to get in its way. The organism’s vital fluids start to boil and its organs and tissues literally explode. Fire Rate: 1. Range: 3-20/75/120. Damage: 12D. Price: The disintegrator 48 is not for sale under any circumstances. Occasionally, a model stolen from the Hunchbacks will make its way to the black market, but at an exorbitant price. Availability: Minimal. The discovered possessor of a Disintegrator 48 disintegrator 48 will not only incur the risk of instant death but also the possibility of being “remodeled” into a Hunchback. Reliability: As the unfortunate populations of the Endocities can attest, there is no more reliable weapon Gauss Gun than the disintegrator 48.

DOUBLE SHORT-BARRELED MUIRA 2K GUN the Muira 2K, as well as dum-dum charges and incred- Originally, the Muira 2K was a fairly innocuous weapon ibly devastating grenade rounds. Once this “upgraded” intended for use by anti-riot troops in the Endocities, or on Muira 2K came into fashion, all official copies of the worlds with rioting populations. It has a pair of short bar- weapon were stolen. Its small size makes it the ideal rels, and although the caliber is far from commonplace, the weapon for urban combat, but authorities consider pos- gun is not technologically sophisticated in the slightest. The session of the weapon as punishable by instant death. barrels are capable of launching gas canisters — tear gas, Technical Specifications: Only forty-two centimeters laughing gas, neuro-paralysis gas — to an incredible range. from muzzle to stock, an empty Muira 2K nonetheless Under standard gravity, it can hurl a 350-gram cartridge up weighs a hefty 758 grams. When loaded, its weight varies to twelve kilometers. At point blank range, the damage in- depending on the ammunition it contains. Its primary flicted is considerable. Cybo-cop reports make frequent men- shortcoming is that it must be reloaded after every two tion of humans literally perforated by the canisters. shots, but after such a horrendous round of fire there is This extraordinary power brought the gun back to usually a deafening calm and a brief pause in which to popularity. Pirates, Psycho Anarchists, and other outlaws carry out the operation. The colossal recoil requires two began to manufacture small shells to fit the chambers of hands to manage, and even so it must be gripped very tightly. After all, it is a weapon that was originally designed for cybo-cops. Fire Rate: 1. Range: 3-100/6000/ black market in high quantities, but its use is 131 • Weapons 12000. Damage: Canisters do 5D at less than three meters; highly restricted. canisters that get the chance to explode do damage baesd Reliability: The gun is very reliable, but its deli- on their contents (for example, tear gas and laughing gas cate mechanisms require meticulous care. incapacitate victims in a 100-square-meter area for fif- LASER GUN teen minutes). Price: The Muira 2K is no longer sold officially, but it With similar mechanisms as the cogan 45, the laser is easily obtained from other sources. The price varies ac- gun is an energy weapon that produces a burning ef- cording to its condition, and what ammunition it holds, fect. The laser’s destructive beam is somewhat more usually averaging around the 1,000-kublar mark. narrow than that of the plasma’s, with slightly lower Availability: On the black market, it is very easy to energy consumption, so the laser gun is often consid- obtain. ered an inferior predecessor to the cogan 45. That said, Reliability: At the point of manufacture, the weapon is it is effective and is the standard weapon of many forces, very simple and totally reliable. However, once adaptations both official and unofficial. have been made, the Muira K’s reliability will vary widely Technical Specifications: The laser gun is one meter long depending on the quality of the “alterations.” and weighs 996 grams without energy cartridges. Each cartridge provides enough power for seventy-five shots. The GAUSS GUN laser beam’s focus is adjustable, which A purely energy-based weapon, the varies the range in an inverse propor- gauss gun emits an electromagnetic ray These Ropes that tion. On its finest setting, the weapon that has a double effect: it disrupts the Whistle over Our can reach up to 5,000 meters, which operation of electronic systems and de- Heads… makes it an effective weapon for sharpshooters, because it is totally silent and vices, and paralyses the neurological Fruit of an audacious ge- inflicts material damage to any element system of living beings. Originally de- netic crossbreeding between that can be burned. Fire Rate: 1. Range: signed as an anti-riot gun, the gauss an Agolan creeper and the 3-50/100/300 (wide)to 3-500/1500/ gun has gradually been adapted for paleo-cobra, the rope of 5000 (narrow). Damage: 4D. Note: other uses, particularly electronic in- Nuv-Rohp (a small planet Widest setting can hit ten targets, while terference. Although it is easy to de- from the Givem sub-system) narrow setting can hit one. fend against this ray — a simple force combines the qualities of a Price: Officially, the laser gun is field or barrier will suffice — such mea- classic rope in teflo-hemp fi- worth 1100 kublars. The price varies sures are extremely costly, and one in- bers ( very high resistance to on the black market, and there is never stant of inattention is enough. tensile strength, absolutely a shortage of buyers. Technical Specifications: The gauss rot proof) with the specific Availability: Minimal. Ownership is gun is rather cumbersome. It is only 108 aptitudes of tension and regulated. But taking both military and centimeters long, and weighs 968 grams movement (crawling silently, civilian populations into account, it is without its energy cartridges, but the instant acceleration, prodi- probably the most well-distributed generator that sits on top of the stock gious leaps) of a gigantic weapon in the universe. is very obtrusive. Each energy cartridge snake. Paying for it isn’t Reliability: Although generally reli- provides enough power for twenty-five enough to acquire this mar- able, the laser gun requires constant shots. While each ray’s power remains vel, for a particular bond maintenance. Serious defects have been constant, its range and diffusion can be must be established between reported, resulting from either sabo- adjusted in inverse proportion to each the rope and its owner. tage or negligence. other. On the “pinpoint” setting, its The rope has to be range can exceed 100 meters. On the charmed… (Very Difficult POLY AKA-4 ASSAULT RIFLE other hand, when all the way open, the Persuasion roll to charm. Signature weapon of all the outcasts gauss gun is only effective up to three Succeeding gains the in the universe, the Poly AKA-4 is the meters. Fire Rate: 1. Range (examples): charmer a rope with the fol- crowning achievement of the 3/—/— (full wide setting); 3-5/15/60 lowing characteristics: Troglosocialik arms factories. Totally (medium wide setting); 3-10/30/120 brawling 8D+2, running 7D, devoid of any refinement, this assault (pinpoint setting). Damage: 5D stun. sneak 8D, Strength 6D+2, rifle is simple but effective — it can be Note: Full wide setting affects forty tar- climb/jump 9D, lift 8D+1; subjected to any conditions and is ide- gets, medium wide setting affects Move: 20. The rope will fol- ally suited for guerilla actions in any twenty targets, and needle setting af- low the orders of its owner environment. Its strongest points are fects one target. without question. To figure its reliability and ease of repair. In cer- Price: In official circles, the gauss gun the length, roll one Wild Die tain isolated areas, there are troops sells for 750 kublars per unit. On the and multiply the result by making do with models that still func- black market, its price varies accord- 100 feet.) ing to condition, but it isn’t hard to find. tion with all their parts replaced. The Availability: Minimal. It exists on the closest comparison with the Empire’s HAND-HELD GUNS “official” weapons is the Cogan 78, because of its Technologically speaking, hand-held guns have made multiple functions. The the same advances as heavy artillery. There have been im- Poly AKA-4 fires provements to ammunition, materials, and energy sources. both energy shots Although these pistols may not be as powerful or pre- and traditional am- cise as the heavier weapons, their overall effectiveness munition. lies in their greater handling ability and ease of use. Technical Specifi- Many of them represent sawn-off versions of the cations: The Poly heavy models. In this category are the hand-held laser Chapter 14 • 132 AKA-4 is average size (eighty-nine and the hand-held cogan — rare indeed, manufactured centimeters) and average weight (874 grams unloaded). in minuscule quantities as a badge of honor for In its energy mode, it shoots long streaks of plasma, Endoguard officers. whose strength and range cannot be adjusted. Each car- SUPRA-PISTOL tridge provides sixty shots. It can also shoot traditional projectiles of a unique caliber, close to the .753 but not An extremely powerful energy weapon, the suprapistol quite identical. If the occasion arises, slight structural shoots plasma rays up to fifty meters with extreme preci- modifications will permit both types to be used. The sion. Up to about twenty meters, any shot is fatal. weapon’s standard cartridges contain 100 rounds, but This weapon is standard equipment for most officers customized versions abound. Many eyewitnesses have re- of the Empire’s armed forces. The energy cartridge’s large ported cartridges of 1,000 rounds or more. It is impor- capacity — 100 shots — makes it suitable for combat tant to note that, unlike the cogan 78, the Poly AKA-4’s support. rapid-fire mode is a genuine one. The demonic staccato Technical Specifications: The suprapistol is twenty-three of its fire is familiar throughout the Empire. Of course, centimeters long, but due to materials used in its manufac- the weapon has no epyphite counter-balancing, and us- ture, it weighs only 254 grams unloaded. It is easy to handle, ing it in rapid-fire mode is extremely difficult. Fire Rate: and can be concealed without the slightest sign. The stan- 1. Range: 3-40/90/275. Damage: 3D+1 (traditional); 5D dard cartridge — available anywhere in the Empire — only (energy). Note: When in rapid-fire mode, reduce user’s adds 110 grams to the weight of the weapon, and provides firearms skill by -2D and multiply the damage by 2. A 1 plenty of power. The cartridge fits into the butt of the gun. on the Wild Die indicates the gun had faulty parts; the Fire Rate: 2. Range: 3-20/50/75. Damage: 5D. gun explodes and does 4D f damge to its user. Price: The suprapistol is sold officially for 350 kublars. Price: The Poly AKA-4 sells for approximately 350 It is also found on the black market, where prices vary kublars. On some worlds, it is given free to every citizen. according to its condition. Availability: Optimal. Manufactured by the hundreds Availability: Optimal, but uncommon. Ownership is of thousands of habitants on the Colonial Planets, the regulated, but it is so easily concealed that it can be car- Poly AKA-4 is the easiest weapon to obtain in the whole ried anywhere without great risk of discovery. universe. Reliability: The suprapistol is absolutely reliable, but long Reliability: On the whole, the Poly AKA-4 is very reli- exposure to humid conditions may lead to energy loss. able, due to its great simplicity. However, due to a shortage of manufacturing materials, some models contain defects.

Supra-pistol H-38X Pistol Defense Pistol VIPER PISTOL

133 • Weapons Manufactured by the Viper Arms Party Favors, DEFENSE PISTOL Corporation, under control of the Viruses, and The term “defense pistol” does Maganat of the Poly-Romanoffs, the Bacteria… not apply to a specific model but Viper Pistol is the civilian equivalent of To end a memorable rather to a group of models, with the suprapistol. Its qualities are roughly Endocity visit, why not bring their reduced size and diminished comparable to those of its twin model back for your enemies a power in common. except for a slightly weaker energy ca- sample of the famous These laser-type pistols can fire a pacity. Merope virus? Or better yet, maximum of only five shots. These To justify its civilian status, most the new and improved guns are at their best when hidden models of the Viper Pistol features a Biophage 13X virus, the lat- under the pilot seat of a small ship, nonlethal mode, which merely renders est to come out of the concealed in the fold of a coat, or even its target unconscious. Biotech Inc. Plus laborato- hidden in a sleeve or pen case. Technical Specifications: Twenty-five ries. Immediately fatal, these Technical Specifications: The de- centimeters long and weighing 350 marvels of genetic technol- fense pistols are the smallest guns on grams unloaded, the Viper Pistol can ogy procure a heinous and the market, with the largest one mea- fire fifty shots before requiring reload- explosive death. Useful pre- suring only ten centimeters, and weighing. It accepts the standard cartridge, caution: remember to equip ing just over 180 grams, while the which fits into the butt of the gun. Fire yourself with elephanto- smallest model in production measures Rate: 1. Range: 3-10/30/60. Damage: donte’s milk from Garligue, a mere 4.78 centimeters, weighing 78 4D. Note: Nonlethal mode does the Amourine, or better with a grams when unloaded. Fire Rate: 1. same damage as lethal mode, except proto-mineral cloner for Range: 3-5/9/15. Damage:3D. that it is taken only as stun damage. complete immunization. Price: The price varies depending on Price: Pride of the civilian weapons the model and its quality, but usually markets, the Viper Pistol with nonletahl averages around 300 kublars. mode sells everywhere at a flat price of Availability: Optimal. 500 kublars. (It’s 300 kublars without the nonlethal mode.) Reliability: The technology is well tested and perfectly Ownership is regulated, so it’s a good idea to have one’s reliable. papers in order before buying one officially. Otherwise, it can be found on the black market at prices that vary de- WAR PISTOL pending on its condition. As the suprapistol’s younger relative, the war pistol is Availability: Optimal, though a permit is required in standard equipment for troops in the Empire’s armed many places. forces. Reliability: No problems have ever been reported. It is a powerful energy weapon, and roughly offers the same qualities as the suprapistol. Its energy cartridges,

Viper Pistol War Pistol less, its outward appearance re- inserted into the butt of the gun, provide enough sembles the paleo-firearms of power for seventy-five shots. Terra Prima. Technical Specifications: The war pistol is only With its revolving 19.86 centimeters long — smaller than the suprapistol cylinder and “blue- — but nonetheless weighs approximately the same: steel” finish, it brings to 249 grams unloaded. Despite its apparent compact- mind the .44 magnum of ness, its large chamber makes concealment difficult. the paleo-arms manufacturer Smith and Wesson, or the The war pistol uses the standard cartridge, inserted into Dan Wesson long barrel, two models that have entirely the butt, that allows seventy-five shots. Fire Rate: 2. disappeared, their silhouette familiar only to paleo-archive Chapter 14 • 134 Range: 3-15/45/70. Damage: 4D+2. enthusiasts. But appearances can be deceptive, because Price: Officially, the war pistol sells for about 300 one single Vis Pacem is enough to overcome the defenses kublars, depending on what rank of officer it was de- of a space battlecruiser, reducing it to wreckage. signed for. Since it is only intended for military use, it is Technical Specifications: Thirty-one centimeters long not usually available for single purchase. On the black from the butt to the tip of the barrel, the Vis Pacem is an market, however, it can be found in abundance. imposing weapon indeed. But it weighs only 398 grams, Availability: Minimal, at least officially. including ammunition. As a showcase for the Church of Reliability: The war pistol is completely reliable. the Industrial Saints, it is composed of high-performance materials that are an optimal mix of lightness and dura- H-38X PISTOL, OR “HYPODERMIC” bility. The pearl-handled grip is a work of art. Aesthetic Ideal anti-riot weapon, the H-38X pistol shoots small considerations aside, the ballistic qualities are what make needles containing a toxic and corrosive substance up to the Vis Pacem a terrifying weapon of death. The cylinder a distance of 500 meters. They shatter on impact and the contains seven rounds — of a caliber comparable to the contents begin to take effect: it dissolves through fabric, .753 — similar in appearance to paleo-ammunition, but in order to paralyze the nervous system. in fact quite different. First of all, the propulsive charge is The chemicals are only effective not traditional gunpowder. It is an through textile-based clothing. They energy concentrate whose explosive have no effect on electronic devices and Great Balls of power is of course much greater. And equipment. Fire! of course the bullet is not just a leaden Technical Specifications: A weapon In order to enhance their mass. It’s a round of anti-matter. Upon that combines traditional projectiles with vital forces and energies at impact, the anti-matter is released and energy propulsion, the hypodermic pis- the moment of attack, sea- obliterates an equal quantity of mat- tol is suited only to certain specific uses. soned mercenaries use a ter to create huge gaps. Fire Rate: 1. If used strategically, however, it can work longtime proven device that Range: 3-15/35/75 space units (space); wonders. Rather discreet, it only mea- is small but effective. Sold at 6-35/75/150 km (atmosphere). Dam- sures seventeen centimeters — or twenty- an average price of 45 age: 7D (battleship scale.) eight centimeters with the addition of a kublars, the “Gonado-Ener- Price: The Vis Pacem is not intended barrel for long-distance accuracy — and gizer” is placed on the for sale. The rare copies produced are weighs 236 grams when empty. The fifty- perineum, point of equilib- exclusively for the officials of the round cartridge fits into the butt of the rium of the Yin and Yang Church of the Industrial Saints. gun. Fire Rate: 1. Range: 3-100/200/500. currents and the laterality Availability: Minimal. Damage: 6D stun. Note: Damage is in- poles. Activated, it emits a Reliability: As a product of ex- flicted on organic materials and creatures variable frequency deter- tremely high and holy technology, the only. mined in function and ac- Vis Pacem will never malfunction. Price: Produced only in small quan- cording to the parameters of BLADED WEAPONS tities, the hypodermic pistol costs 500 each individual with infra- kublars in official circles. vibratory impulses that Despite the ancient associations of Availability: Minimal. The hypoder- maximize energy concentra- Terra Prima they conjure, bladed mic pistol is a nonlethal weapon, but tion. Fierceness in battle is weapons are highly esteemed through- since the authorities are aware that it fantastically increased ten- out the Empire. Not only does a sharp can be easily adapted to more deadly fold, but (small side effect) edge remain highly effective against uses, ownership is regulated. appetites and other erectile any defenseless bio-organism, but the Reliability: Excellent. functions are also exacer- traditional blades have been improved greatly by the benefits of modern tech- VIS PACEM REVOLVER bated. (The device gives +5D to all combat skills when nology; they now boast ultra-resistant This extremely rare weapon is manu- used, and difficulties for Per- materials and many new options, factured in minute quantities by the ception skills and willpower some amusing and some extremely Church of the Industrial Saints, based are increased by +10). deadly. on advanced technologies that few hu- To see someone leaping around af- man brains can comprehend. Nonethe- ter being poked with a vibro-dagger would draw a smile from the most solemn Techno- Techno dignitary. contemporary replica, all the swords have in com- 135 • Weapons But aside from these considerations, bladed weapons mon an elongated shape and a cutting blade. None- will always be highly sought by the Nobles, who love to theless, an infinite number of variables makes each parade around with a sword at their side. one a unique product: light or heavy, for two hands or one, simple or sheathed hilt, curved or straight blade, PALEO-SWORD and so forth. Skill: Archaic weapons. Difficulty: Easy Fruit of the immemorial wisdom of the master armor- (10). Damage: STR+2D. Note: these game characteris- ers of Terra Prima, authentic paleo-swords are rarities par- tics are for straight, one-handed swords. ticularly prized and admired. Although these relics are Price: Paleo-swords vary in price according to a great often nothing but worn blades corroded by rust, some of number of criteria. A chipped and rusted blade might be these marvels have emerged from the mists of time intact, worth a fortune if some famous origin can be certified. as magnificent and sparkling as the day they were cre- Conversely, a magnificently forged teflo-steel blade will be ated. In response to demand from a Nobility eager for worth very little if it is a model produced in great quantity antiquities, a specialized micro-industry sprang up by an Industrial Maganat. On average, the price will range throughout the Empire. Of course, the modern imitations between 1 and 1000 kublars, but only an expert would risk do not have the same style of the respected ancient weap- making a purchase at the upper end of the spectrum. ons, even though the modern materials give them quali- Availability: Optimal. No permit is required to buckle ties that the inhabitants of paleo-Terra Prima could never a sword to one’s belt. have dreamed of. Then again, another advantage of au- Reliability: Modern imitation paleo-swords are ex- thentic paleo-swords is that some of them are enchanted, tremely durable, unlike the older models which occasion- carrying a mystical power that makes those who know ally shatter. On the other hand, the fortunate owner of a how to use them utterly invincible. genuine enchanted sword can rely on it under any cir- Technical Specifications: Whether true paleo-weapon or cumstances.

Vibro-sword

Paleo-sword

Supra-ice Sword Price: This is a weapon of prestige and is reserved PALEO-SPEAR for an elite and select cli- Like paleo-swords, paleo-spears are coming back entele, who must attain into vogue. Of course, it is not as common to see some- some merit in the eyes of one carrying one, but there are many who claim to the Church of the Indus- possess in their home one of the mythical lances used trial Saints. Without by some paleo-hero on paleo-Terra Prima to slay one added options, the base of the dragons thta must have run across that land in price is 5,000 kublars. great numbers… Availability: Minimal. Chapter 14 • 136 Here as well, imitations abound, but what is lost in Ownership is not regu- authenticity is generally made up for by greater resil- lated, but the C.I.S. has ience. exacting guidelines as to Technical Specifications: These weapons come in a wide who is allowed to own Paleo-spear range of styles and uses, from the light javelin to the heavy one. pilum, even including the formal halberd. Generally, they Reliability: As a measure between 160 and 260 centimeters from base to Techno-Techno product, point, and weigh anywhere from 1.5 kilos to 5 kilos or the supra-ice sword is more. Skill: Archaic weapons. Difficulty: Easy (10). Dam- 100 percent reliable. age: 4D (thrown); STR+1D+2 (melee). Thrown Range: 5- However, also as a 15/25/40. Techno-Techno product, Price: As with paleo-swords, the price of paleo-spears it is difficult to know who varies on a number of criteria that are difficult to deter- the blade’s true master is. mine. Nonetheless, a price range of 1 to 1000 kublars is reasonably accurate. VIBRO-SWORD Availability: Optimal. No license is required to either This is a modern own or carry a spear. sword, but it can pass as Reliability: A spear’s effectiveness depends on the an ancient one thanks to quality of the material it is composed of. If designed its appearance. In addi- to be thrown, its quality depends on the skill and ex- tion to a sword’s usual perience of the manufacturer who made it. functions, the vibro- sword has an energized SUPRA-ICE SWORD hilt that transmits an ul- Although at first glance it cannot be distinguished from a tra-rapid vibration to the paleo-sword, the supra-ice sword is definitely a modern blade. In vibro-mode, weapon. Secretly manufactured in some Techno-Techno with its small character- factory, the supra-ice sword unites the handling and cutting istic hum, the power of qualities of a traditional sword with a deadly efficiency pro- the sword is increased Vibro-axe vided by this era of all-powerful technology. The blade, made tenfold. And since it is of a highly super-conducting alloy, can reach a temperature made of extremely hard of absolute zero. The slightest contact transmits an intense material, it cuts effort- cold right to the core of any matter it touches. Living tissues lessly into flesh and bone, are frozen instantly, and become as hard as glass. Even if breaks through the more they don’t shatter, the thermal shock will irreversibly lead basic defenses and can to dead tissue. This extremely dangerous weapon must be even penetrate certain handled with great care. To carry it, a special thermo-isolat- armor. ing sheath is most warmly recommended. Technical Specifica- Technical Specifications: This weapon is manufactured tions: This mass-market singly and to order, so the blade’s shape is left to the cli- weapon has the same ent. The alloy itself is tinted a pretty blue, and can be characteristics of a paleo- Electro-glove worked to accommodate ornamentation. Both the blade’s sword, but only allows handle and its sheath are made of thermo-isolating mate- the choice of three differ- rial, and the hilt of the sword encloses a powerful genera- ent serrated blades. The tor. Each energy cartridge allows it to be used at full power energy cartridge fits into for 100 hours. During the last hour of power, the blade’s the hilt to supply power to the generator. Each cartridge temperature gradually climbs back up toward ambient provides 20 hours of use at full power. Due to the materi- temperature. Of course, supra-ice mode can be switched als used, the weight of the whole sword including the car- off at any time. Skill: Melee combat. Difficulty: Easy (10). tridge never exceeds 1.5 kilos. Skill: Melee combat. Diffi- Damage: STR+5D (supra-ice mode); STR+2D culty: Easy (10). Damage: STR+12D (vibro-mode); (unpowered). STR+2D (unpowered). Price: This popular weapon has an official price of about 150 kublars. Technical Specifications: The paralyzing club, 137 • Weapons Availability: Optimal. Ownership is regulated, but those standard equipment of security forces on many who carry one simply pretend it’s a paleo-sword. worlds of the Empire, measures 105 centimeters and Reliability: Excellent reliability overall. However, like weighs 2,265 grams, including the energy cartridge. One all energy weapons, the vibro-sword does not respond standard cartridge provides power for seventy-five well to prolonged exposure to humidity. shocks. Skill: Melee combat. Difficulty: Easy (10). Dam- age: 5D+2 stun (paralyzing mode); STR+2D. Note: If VIBRO-AXE the weapon is tapped on the ground, it does its damage Far more ostentatious than the vibro-sword, the vibro- to all targets within a five-meter radius, but then it must axe is the weapon of choice for all those who want to be recharged. proclaim to the universe that they love brawls and blood. Price: The official price of the paralyzing club is forty- It can inflict the same wounds as a traditional axe, but five kublars. It is easily found on the black market at a can also deliver unrivalled cutting power. The generator price ranging between 10 and 100 kublars. at the base of the shaft sets the blade vibrating, which Availability: Optimal. Although it is normally reserved allows it to render the hardest materials into shreds. The for anti-riot troops, the paralyzing club appeals to many plasti-alloy blade is available in a wide variety of shapes enthusiasts. — including single or double blade — and thicknesses. Reliability: As a traditional club, there is of course no Handling it requires strength and skill, but its greatest possibility of breakdown. However, very humid environ- drawback is its conspicuousness. ments can sometimes impede the function of its electric Technical Specifications: The energy cartridge, which mode. fits into the base of the shaft, guarantees full power for twenty-five hours. Like the vibro-sword, the vibro-axe uses ELECTRO-GLOVE standard energy cartridges, easily available throughout The electro-glove is a huge metallic glove with fearsome the Empire. Some models are rechargeable. A photonic effects in hand-to-hand combat, because it combines the accumulator allows it to be recharged when held under devastating power of a traditional boxing glove with elec- light, but the process takes two standard hours. Skill: trical damage. Upon contact, it administers an electric Melee combat. Difficulty: Moderate (15). Damage: shock that maximizes the impact, often killing instantly STR+13D (vibro-mode); STR+3D depending upon the power of the blow. (unpowered). Alternatively, it can send an electric Price: A good vibro-axe costs ap- Take a Peek in bolt as far as three meters, designed to proximately 120 kublars. My Bag… stun the adversary for a few minutes. Availability: Optimal, although own- Manufactured in the Technical Specifications: The ership is regulated. Carrying one Techno-Techno’s laboratory- electro-glove comes in the shape of a around urban populations would not factories, the “hypnotic traditional boxing glove, equipped be advisable, but in rural areas where purse” is a little exclusive with a large number of metallic rein- it can pass as a tool, a vibro-axe hardly and costly wonder — 1265 forcements and a generator attached draws attention. kublars in authorized bou- to the fist. Depending on its size, it can Reliability: The vibro-axe uses an- tiques for the smallest sized weigh somewhere between 465 and cient technology, so it is thoroughly remodel — which allows for 598 grams, and it guarantees a power- liable. However, exposure to great the concealment of any ele- ful hit. Its kinetic force has broken amounts of moisture should be avoided. ment, living or inert, coming many jaws. The energy cartridge con- from the Universe’s real di- tained in the generator provides PARALYZING CLUB mension. Only the C.I.S. enough power for fifty hits, or twenty- Thanks to the Prez’s Hunchbacks, this knows where the items five electric bolts. Hand-to-hand use: seemingly obsolete weapon has returned slipped into the bag tempo- Skill: Melee combat. Difficulty: Very to favor, because they missed that old rarily disappear to, but what Easy (5). Damage: STR+3D+2. Ranged “human touch.” Aside from its effective- is certain, is that they become use: Skill: Firearms. Fire Rate: 1. ness as a defensive club, just a slight touch absolutely invisible and un- Range: 1/2/3/—. Damage: 4D+2 stun. is enough to administer a powerful elec- detectable. Extremely use- Price: An electro-glove’s average tric shock. But that’s not all: tapping it fully for discretely and se- price is 35 kublars. against the ground releases an electric renely passing borders or Availability: Optimal. Since it can shock that paralyzes all living things frontiers. This said, it is with- almost be considered recreational within a five-meter radius. Only the per- out a doubt optimistic to “sporting” equipment, the Electro- son holding the club is immune to its ef- expect to get away with fool- glove is accessible to anyone. fect. This extremely effective attack pro- ing a Techno-Technos sur- Reliability: Made of time-tested ma- vokes neuro-muscular paralysis for veillance system with such an terials, the electro-glove is completely around five minutes, depending on the item… reliable. victim’s constitution. and only in the most absolute secrecy. The only exception is the OKO mini-bomb, which it donated to the Empire BOMBS AND EXPLOSIVES as a token of loyalty. Today as always, explosives remain a major com- In the secrecy of its factory-labs, the C.I.S. concocts ponent of the art of war. Exploding ballistic charges horrific bombs with devastating effects, like “negative are always used in combat, even in the interstellar mines,” which look like harmless debris drifting through void, where the impact is silent but just as deadly. In space but contain an anti-matter charge. Once they are infantry battles on the ground, the front line is pro- set off by contact or by remote detonation, they release a tected by explosive munitions, including rockets and certain quantity of anti-matter that instantly eradicates grenades. Explosives might even be used strategically an equal quantity of matter. If a ship bumps against a Chapter 14 • 138 in covert action — sabotage, bomb-laying or political mine, a hole appears in the hull without even the slightest terrorism. explosion. Antipersonnel mines of the same type have also Numerous technological advancements have increased been manufactured. The C.I.S. also developed the “re- their effectiveness. New explosive material has been dis- mora grip,” made of genetic plastics that ensure perma- covered, and increasingly sophisticated combinations have nent adhesion of a device to any surface. The plastic ana- been developed, resulting in a tenfold increase in the deto- lyzes and recognizes the contact material, then melts into nating power of matter. Today, one OKO mini-bomb, no it by matching its symbiotic pulse rate at a chromosomal bigger than a thumbnail, has a destructive capacity equiva- and atomic level. An OKO mini-bomb combined with a lent to the paleo-Hiroshima bomb many times over. How- remora grip is invincible. To be on board a ship with an ever, explosives are highly specialized commodities and OKO-remora stuck to ione’s self is to be in a very precari- strictly regulated by all the major organizations of the ous position indeed. Empire. Although even the average and most easily ob- Finally, the Church of the Industrial Saints is develop- tainable explosives are of higher quality than in the past, ing Tri-H-type bombs, in flagrant violation of the treaties the range of available products remains limited. signed between the Empire and the Colonial Planets. Some The two major types of explosives in use today leave a sources indicate they have started production and are chemical signature indicating in which branch of the Em- stockpiling them in a highly secret location. pire they originated. Residue of Teflodynamite indicates GAME CHARACTERISTICS origins within the Ekonomat or the Maganats, while traces of Polysemtex are an instant indicator of the Colonial Plan- If you’re playing the Metabarons Roleplaying Game, ets. As for the Church of the Industrial Saints, it has de- you can find game characteristics for common explosives veloped superpowerful explosives that it uses very rarely on pages 233–234 of the rulebook. C Y B E R N E T I C S

Although the scientific definition of cybernetics is rela- easy to understand why cybernetics is more amusing tively easy to understand, its role and place in the range and entertaining than appealing. Virtually all cybernetic of today’s technologies is vague and underrated. The vast equipment can be remotely controlled by pirate remote majority of current practices and innovations are cred- controls easily bought on the black market. These range ited exclusively to “technology” as the holy and all-pow- from basic transceivers through General Thato’s hands erful driving force behind the progress of intelligent races. to the most deadly of micro-bombs. It is understood Although there are definite types of uses for this endless that the Techno-Technos can also decide to suddenly source of wonders, public opinion looks down on cyber- control any cybernetic implant without either remote netics and its many offshoots — transplants, implants, control or the slightest justification. nanotechnology, and bodily alterations — as being nowhere near as good as other advances. GETTING CYBERNETICS While not yet seen as archaic, cybernetics is considered Cybernetics is as easily accessible as it is unwanted. The to be inferior — a fad, a potential solution, just one alter- vast majority of the cybernetic products available are in- native in an infinite number of possibilities. vented, designed, and ordered by the Techno-Technos and then produced by the Maganats. Rich families sometimes THE CYBERNETIC REALITY set up cybernetic production centers to design their own equipment, but the quality and scientific import of such PUBLIC OPINION “spontaneous” equipment very rarely equals the Techno- A quick glance is all you need to realize that, aside from Technos’ innovative and essential work. Three user pro- the scientists and cyberjunkies who worship the implants files relate to the three main ways of accessing this as much as others do drugs, rare are those who see cyber- technology’s products: the Church of the Industrial Saints netics as vital or even useful. The spread of pan-Techno- laboratories, the Maganat production centers, and back- surgery and weapons has long reduced the advantages of street surgeons, who may be pirates, rebels, or sponsored cybernetic implants to being seen as mere fancy and even by other small independent groups. The numerous labo- old hat. With the richest having access to health care and ratories contract the transplant services and cybernetic better equipment and the poorest preferring a large-cali- products that they consider to be “official” in the same ber weapon to a microscopic chip, a skeptical public is way as they rely on the Techno-Technos for the majority pushing cybernetic applications out into the cold. of their equipment, leisure, and health-care treatments. Although potential cybernetics cus- The rare output of new Maganat tomers are no more against the idea of products, which even then are experi- a transplant than an internal implant or mental, is exclusively reserved for any other major bodily alteration, they Cybernetics and society’s elite, who are the only ones are rare. The public generally prefers Technology able to afford the prototypes and move Techno-Techno technology, which is Although technological in their inventors’ social circles. seen as and indeed is capable of trans- advances have improved this The “illegal” cybernetic technology planting, modifying, replacing, and im- science, cybernetics still produced and sold outside the pan- proving any organ using a technology stands alone. With pan- Techno networks offers a universal cli- based on a combination of science, ge- Techno-technology able to entele an impressive catalogue of pi- netics, and mystical gnosticism. Many do everything, or nearly ev- rate cybernetics: modified Techno- Techno-Techno operations are much erything, it seems rather Techno implants, banned chips, pro- like cybernetic applications, in the naïve to use cybernetics as a hibited matrix programs, experimen- proper sense of the term, but the way in full-fledged science. The tal nano-surgery and so on. Despite which they work and the energy used technology is still seen as an many suppliers and customers, prices far surpass the realms of a simple “tech- exception, as just another and potential secondary effects are of- nique.” There is just no comparison gadget in a world of endless ten highly unpredictable. No one between an artificial heart transplant options. You only have to knows anymore exactly how many fa- and a pre-birth programmed slow bio- look at the immense power tal accidents have been caused by an logical mutation of an embryo’s natu- of the Techno-Technos to equipment failure, unexpected pirat- ral heart. combine the very essence of ing, or a Techno-Techno control with The use of cybernetics is all the rarer, life with the product of tech- its often-final outcome. nological progress to realize since the majority of the population sees TRANSPLANTS, IMPLANTS, AND COSTS no point in replacing a damaged limb. that they can do everything The cost of implanting the body cy- Add to this the prospect of being con- cybernetics can do, if they’re bernetics making up most of the prod- trolled or enduring the wrath of a not already doing it. uct catalogue is enough to reduce the Techno-Techno “requisition” and it is netics into your clientele to the wealthy — or to common people Metabarons Role- Need to Be driven to the back-street clinics for this type of playing Game Incognito? conversion. If you want to get a cybernetic trans- character, along The Holo-cosmetic micro- plant, you have to have the right contacts and means with game charac- chip is a staple gadget with to get into a C.I.S. clinic — every Endocity has at least teristics for some the Aristos. The chip allows one — or “alternative” operating theatre. common im- one to completely cross dress Equipment and transplant prices vary enormously plants, see pages achieving the actual appear- depending on quality and size. For example, transplant- 237–239 of the ance of somebody else. In- ing a minor peripheral replacement organ such as a fin- rule book. Chapter 15 • 140 habitants of the Gold Ring ger costs less than 1,000 kublars and is pretty easy to often use this method to de- get approved by the Church of the Industrial Saints cen- APPLICA- scend incognito to amuse sors. However, implanting a vital organ costs ten times TIONS themselves in the soil and this amount, if not more, and applications are only ac- mire of the Red Ring. This cepted from those with solid references and a high social EVERYDAY LIFE said, if it hides the identity status. The Techno-Technos have deliberately introduced of those who wear it (placed this means-based selection in keeping with their principle Cybernetics of- behind the ears) from bio that money is not nearly as important as where their know- fers a wide range eyes, it doesn’t escape the how goes. This means that being able to afford cybernet- of “general pub- notice of the opto-electronic ics or any other pan-Techno science far from ensures that lic” applications surveillance eyes. It is there- you get it. ranging from fore ineffectual in certain Although the simple holo- surveyed sectors of the famous Hospital make-up to syn- endocities, space highway Planet has thetic drug drips. Defusing stops, astroports, imperial switched to a They boast a mul- With the appearance of installations, etc. more “demo- titude of implants the new cybernetic options, cratic” system by and chips with as defusing techniques have offering similar futile effects as also been created to “soup services at a re- changing clothes up” official equipment with duced price, no or eye and skin color, and suits thermally regulated to the often-limited possibilities one knows ex- wearer’s microperspiration. These aesthetic applications and radius, but also to break actly how long the are highly popular with the elite, who can afford the luxury the essential link that the waiting list is for and “good taste” of these caprices that they say make Techno-Technos have built the consideration “all the difference between the plebes and the select few.” with their creation. The pos- of applications — In addition to this aesthetics market, cybernetics offers sibility of being freed from not to mention the all sorts of consumer chips, implants, transplants, and the C.I.S.’s yoke is a real actual operations. nano-services relating to medicine, staying in shape and revolution. So it’s not hard The two main al- drugs. Although the prohibitive price of the organic re- to figure out that the Techno- ternatives are still placements is such that they are often reserved for the Technos are furiously fight- the official centers elite, the genetic improvement of certain ordinary organs ing the pirates and major fac- and the back- — including the liver, eyes, skin, and nervous system — tions with the financial street clinics, has become common practice. Healing, toxin absorbent, means and scientific knowl- which cream off and antipoison patches circulate freely on the market, as edge to weaken and some- most of the cus- do the many coveted drug injectors and drips that pro- times completely break the tomers. More- vide a regular or intermittent supply of psychotic, neuro- link between cybernetic over, it is under- stimulating, and adrenal substances to massively improve equipment and the Techno- stood that this is reflexes and deaden the feeling of pain and fatigue — or Technos. But bear in mind just one of the simply keep withdrawal symptoms at bay. that even with the best tech- many Techno- There are also a number of cybernetics-related techno- nology, only Amourine and Techno success logical gadgets directly connected with the brain or the the power of the White Ma- stories of their nervous system. These gadgets are used to access 3D city chines can, in the case of cy- control of the le- plans, archives, knowledge of a language, thermal and bernetic and bio-cybernetic gal and illegal be- infra-red visual perceptions, and matrix network weapon, transplants and implants, set hind the facade of vehicle, piloting, and navigation interfaces. in motion a radical enough being swindled. change to ensure true inde- COMMUNICATION GAME pendence — as in the case of Communication over short and long distances was long NFORMATION the defused Mentreks in par- one of the main lines of cybernetic research and applica- ticular. For guidelines tions. However, with the appearance of new technolo- on putting cyber- gies, only a few highly specific implants still manage to maintain their monopoly. Today, decades after the appearance of the first CybCom implants, the transplant and control over their weapon or weapons that micro-chip catalogue is targeted mainly at head-hunters, transforms them into real aiming and destroying private detectives, and other independents whose job is machines by mentally calculating the trajectories, to stalk, spy, and access information — but who are de- optimizing firing, and instinctively maneuvering with prived of high-tech equipment by their independent sta- remarkable precision. These interface options are ap- tus and cruel lack of resources. plied to combat armor and can also be used to instantly The old transceiver models generally implanted in manage wounds, drug injections, and the movement the auditory canal have been replaced by more sophis- and positioning of weapons systems — in fact, all the ticated systems transplanted into the cortical periph- features that make the difference in combat. ery. They use the synaptic system to encode and con- Yet although the public is impressed by these tech- vey their wearer’s mental frequencies. These commu- nologies and the fighters make extensive use of them, nication mechanisms enable their users to translate a the official commandos and armies of the leading fac- simple thought into a coherent message before send- tions have long since banned cybernetics from their ar- ing it to a technological receiver such as a computer, mory. Wary of Techno-Techno interference, they use bio- drone, or loudspeaker. This Techno-Techno designed options, combat drugs, and high-tech equipment, which technology is still relatively expensive, but it is open- cannot be interfered with or controlled and perform just ing up new windows of opportunity as well if not better. for the Mentreks and is starting to appear in official spheres. However, The Techno- INFORMATION some troublemakers suspect a mas- Technos Are sive mind-control operation. Watching You. TECHNOLOGY AND These are the top-of-the-range im- The Techno-Technos do MATRIX NETWORKS plants. However, most of the inde- not “control” the cybernet- pendents use the more traditional, al- ics market. They are its in- THE MATRIX NETWORK though microscopic, transmitter ventors, instigators, design- Although information technology transplants and the array of mikes, ers, and above all censors. In has long been an everyday part of life, sonars, radars, ultra- and infrasonic addition to helping create the an overwhelming majority of the popu- scanners, and neuro-emotional sen- majority of the cybernetic lation uses computers and their im- sors that read emotions and moods projects, ordering them from mense capacities for humdrum logisti- virtually infallibly. the Maganats or injecting cal and operational tasks. Some are new ideas, the Techno- WEAPONS even unaware of the existence of the Technos have nigh on abso- Netframes and the matrix network, Despite all these marvels of commu- lute power over the applica- commonly known as the “Matrix,” nication and biological improvement, tions created by this science. which opens the doors of a virtual, al- the weapons market is still by far the From the Techno-Centric gorithmic, and illusionary world to most buoyant in terms of innovation, (permanently linked to the those who are really in the know. Al- research, and advances. The parallel de- Matrix network) to the Cen- though there is a whole cluster of local velopment of the defense industry and tral Planet Serpents, (source Netframes (the name for the informa- applied cybernetics since the invention of the C.I.S.’s knowledge and tion technology networks linking the of weapon interfaces has led to the ap- secrets), the Techno-Technos different activity centers in each pearance of deadly and accessible com- are so closely linked with the Endocity), these 3D holographic binations on the market. Although only nature and essence of their worlds harbor no confidential data the Poly-Romanoffs and His Majesty technology that they have an sources and, as the pan-Techno-Techno the Tzar Iman Horlog, supreme ruler unparalleled ability to con- Church censors smugly point out, are of the defense industry, can afford these trol and influence all the nothing more than “another amuse- new technologies, arms and associated spin-offs from their science. ment park.” cybernetic innovations are accessible to Taking control of a cyber- In the Netframes, you can navigate, all. In the weapons trade, money is netic hand to turn it against find software, data, and information king. its owner is just the start of technology subprograms in magical The defense industry has added to what they are capable of. The shapes and colors, and try to hack into its already-impressive arsenal of gre- Techno-Technos can really act the Matrix. However, none of the scin- nades, assault weapons, sonic effects, as they please and control any tillating fortresses protects any real se- and combined and miniaturized weap- cybernetics application at will, cret. Since these networks are prima- ons with the introduction of an option not to mention any scientific rily utilitarian, the Techno-Technos that is now used by all elite fighters: application produced by their have gradually transformed them into the weapons interface. The interface is laboratories. like a matrix-connected implant. It new Necro-dream vectors by giving gives wearers a connection with and cybernauts the impression that they are The very existence of the Supreme Network must be one of the best-kept secrets there is. There is no connection whatsoever between this immaterial web and the local Netframes, and any hypothetical intrusion would be immediately punished by uncompromising destruction. Although it is accessible from the War Star and Central Planet, the Supreme Network is exclusively reserved for the use of the pan-Techno-Techno Church. EQUIPMENT

Chapter 15 • 142 Information technology-applied cybernetics has two main categories of equipment: software and connection and navigation interfaces, used to optimize action and surfing on the local Endocity Netframes; and display and matrix manipulation implants, used by their wearers to penetrate the Netframes without a physical connection and use their mental influence to operate in the network. Cybernetics also offers a wide range of tri-D glasses, optical and cortical implants, interfaces, cables, and console links to make the most of all the local Netframes’ possibilities. Also available is a long list of software and applications associating pure information technology with environmental cybernetics — life support systems for long- term Matrix excursions, anti-intrusion alarms, central management units for local peripherals, sensitive interfaces, holographic keyboards, and so on. Despite this wealth of equipment, only cybernauts with risking their lives and flying in the face of the law. They up-to-date neuro-cortical innovations can possibly opti- may contain guardians, fortresses, data banks, software mize their network navigation and infiltration. These im- and console contraband networks, penalties, and even plants are grafted onto the cortex itself and use the neu- anti-intrusion tracking units, but the reality of the matter ronal and synaptic systems to transform the cybernauts’ is that this technology pirating is nothing more than a brains into a mind-boggling organic console during their gigantic virtual masquerade. excursions into the Netframes. Cybernauts hence control In addition to this high-tech Necro-Dream vehicle, the their movements and actions, see and react at the speed Techno-Technos run another matrix, the Supreme Network, of thought — often increased tenfold by the implant, syn- which keeps them in constant and instant contact with ev- thetic drugs, and other specially designed cybernetic im- erything going on in the universe. This network extends to plants. However, even with this ultra-sophisticated equip- the outermost limits of space like a huge spider’s web. It ment, very few cybernauts are able to distinguish the real links every computer, technological, and living element, giv- Network from the mundane local Netframes. ing the Techno-Technos the power to track, probe, observe, influence, manipulate, and work real miracles. R O B O T I C S

An inevitable step in humanity’s never-ending quest to surround themselves with battalions of robots who pre- attain godliness was that one day they would attempt to pare their food and administer to their every need with- create life. And the attempt was successful — not only out complaint. This domestic help comes in millions of can they assemble mechanical devices that reproduce the forms. Some of them have a strikingly human appear- physical aspects of humans in every way, but they can ance, but one element or another always indicates their also breathe the spark of life into artificial intelligence robotic origin. Most of them are purchased for the home, that mimics the human psyche to the extent of suffering and their costs vary according to their specialties and the same metaphysical anguish. And this is where the dif- the options provided. The two most important criteria ficulty lies, for even a god can have his creation slip away are overall quality and ease of interface. There is always from him. room for improvement in this department because noth- Even back in Terra Prima’s time, humans were eager to ing is more important than having one’s instructions un- build machines that would perform their difficult and derstood. After all, who wouldn’t have the urge to take a annoying tasks. Their efforts cannot be faulted, but com- hammer to the mechanical smile of a robot that endlessly plications arose when humanity’s mastery over genetics repeats, “Would you like some more?” after emptying a allowed them to replicate life itself. This merging of life coffee pitcher onto the floor… with machinery enabled the creation of brothers of hu- The mechanical servants of this first division are ca- manity that resembled them in every way, but who were pable of fulfilling the function for which they are designed forced by circumstances into utter submission to humans, — and nothing more. They can neither display initiative without possessing even the most basic rights. The bound- nor interpret commands, and have only the ability to com- aries between humans and their creations blurred, a mas- plete their task, today, tomorrow and ever after. Techno- sive wave of paranoid schizophrenia soon ensued, and logical advances in this field give them the ability to com- half of humanity was wiped out. During this era, the Guild plete ever more intricate and specific tasks, and also pro- — which would later become the Church of the Indus- vide them with greater energy and lifespan, so long as trial Saints — stumbled upon access to a new technology they never give signs of approaching the human func- and a new reality. As a result, they cam- tions of interpretive analysis and ini- paigned actively against genetic experi- tiative. This division includes not only mentation, which, although not totally the omnipresent servant robots, which forbidden, remains under strict control House Lizard? today are barely even noticed, but also to this day. Provided with the most up all the automatic devices that open and Currently, robots can be grouped to date bio-mechanic inter- close doors, keep surveillance over en- into three major divisions. These divi- active matter, Gorinex’s lat- try points, carry out mechanical tasks, sions do not have specific names, be- est model will be the delight and so forth. These are normal robots, cause they are arbitrary classifications of even the most demanding who by virtue of their programming based on the functions robots perform households. With its proto- cannot even contemplate experiencing within the Empire. In general, it should human interface — able to any emotion, and therefore pose no be remembered that although the imitate the growling hus- risk of transgression, short circuit or C.I.S.’s intervention curbed the most band, the grumpy mother-in- excessive zeal. significant excesses, there isn’t anything law and the whining child — to prevent the more powerful organi- it cheerfully replaces the en- SAMPLE ROBOTS zations — especially the Techno- tire family. Functions? Capa- If you play the Metabarons Techno order — from doing anything bilities? The list is long. Not Roleplaying Game, you can find ex- they want. only does it slice, dice, dis- amples of serval types of mechanical member, transfuse, and servants and domestics robots on pages MECHANICAL SERVANTS knead, but it also pulverizes, 239–240 of the rule book. AND DOMESTIC ROBOTS laminates, crushes, eviscer- ates, and incinerates abso- METABARONIC AND MAXI- Today more than ever, humans take lutely all and any living ele- PROTONIC ROBOTS great pleasure in eliminating lowly ments. Sold today at a pro- chores from their daily routine. Even motional price of only 23 This second division includes only stooping down to pick something up kublars, it is the perfect gift. the robots on the Metabaron’s staff. is unnecessary — there is always a ro- (The absolutely necessary Their ringleader is Tonto, a defective bot who will obediently perform the security unit is sold sepa- model who only requires the slightest task, without even asking for thanks. rately for the modest sum of provocation to reveal a rebellious Because of this, the powerful rulers of 3650 kublars.) streak that would make the C.I.S. want the universe, who dislike being in a to eradicate him. In fact, he was origi- position of owing anything to anybody, nally consigned to the scrap-heap by SAMPLE ROBOTS the Techno-Techno Stan- His Father Is His If you play the Metabarons dards Commission, in order to Mother… Roleplaying Game, you can use the prevent him from violating all the Because he alone gave game characterisitcs of mechanical ser- laws of robotics. The Metabaron birth to his son after having vants and domestics robots on pages found him there and saved him. been self-fertilized, Aghora, 239–240 of the rule book for a base, Since then, he has been the little No-Name’s father-mother, adding whatever additional abilities spoiled god of the Metabunker, rul- has achieved in his own way you feel are appropriate for the duties ing not only over the domestic life the ideal of the Perfect An- required of a particular Metabaronic of his Master, but the fate of his soul

Chapter 16 • 144 drogyne, so dear to the robot. as well. The strange relationship be- Empire’s grand castes. How- tween Tonto and the Metabaron is a ever, this fact of nature has TECHNO-TECHNO perfect example of just how much nothing to do with divine devotion a robot can display. Tonto KILL-GUARDIANS AND intervention, but simply and clearly represents the type of deviant surely due to a surgical in- THE NECROBOT artificial intelligence that the C.I.S. tervention technique to The third division of robots consists would eliminate instantly if they had which Tonto is no stranger. of all the machines and devices devel- the chance. To alleviate his long spells This may also explain the oped and controlled by the C.I.S. In of boredom, Tonto created Lothar, a scarring on Aghora’s fore- great numbers, they climb and snake kind of mechanical offspring who he head, as well as his double behind the walls of the Endocities, purposely endowed with curiosity and character, which is as deeply burrowing through its corridors and intelligence, so he could indulge his own masculine as it is feminine. ventilation hatches. Among them are sadism by never giving him answers and cybo-cops, eye-cops, and all the other always keeping him guessing. discreet but omnipresent surveillance The Metabaron continues to con- and enforcement devices that turn the struct robots as the need arises, and so cities into private hunting-grounds for he now boasts a massive line-up of maxi-protonic models the C.I.S. In flagrant violation of the rules they themselves with an amazing array of deadly functions. Strictly speak- helped to establish, the Techno-Technos endow each one ing, they are not endowed with intelligence, but they do with great intellectual capacity and a faculty of reasoning possess a certain amount of autonomy, coupled with a so developed it is even capable of engendering a quest for strong sense of independent action. When fighting the spiritual awareness. They require a certain amount of free Metabaron, they analyze, make feints, lay traps, predict will in order to act and react, to perceive, judge and ex- his actions, and take countermeasures, along with a num- ecute. To counter the inevitable risk of loss of control, ber of other activities that would normally be impossible and protect the most sacred taboo of a creation turning for their binary counterparts to perform. Finally, harness- against its creator, the C.I.S. implants an auto-destruct ing his abilities to their fullest, the Metabaron has forged system inside each robot that is triggered by the slightest a connection so elevated with all these systems that it is indication of emotion. This group of robots already pre- almost a telepathic psychic link. In an instant, as if there sents a high risk because they act against humans; emo- were a physical connection, he can take control and sub- tion is the sign of burgeoning intelligence, and therefore stitute his will for any of the programs. Nobody knows cannot be tolerated. just how far this capability extends, not even he. These are not the only violations committed by the C.I.S. For obvious reasons, nobody in the universe, no matter Not content to merely animate metallic coldness with a how rich or powerful, can acquire a maxi-protonic or glimmer of conscience, they have also put ample resources Metabaronic robot. These mechanical beings belong only toward an even greater abomination. They have harnessed to their Master, now and forever. It would be madness to the primary source of life inside genes and chromosomes, even consider stealing one, because in less time than it and then twisted and perverted it, with the result that would take to blink an eye, the Metabaron would recover some essentially robotic machines bear characteristics it and impose a tremendous penalty. normally associated with the plant or animal kingdoms. At the Ophidiat’s whim, the trait of

145 • Robotics aggression was injected into the kill- The Space netranekkon, which also guardians, its assassin-robots. Although Behind the Eyes works as a self-destruction sys- their purpose is to serve their master, tem, the cybo-cops dispose of A high-tech system whose they are also capable of acting on their equipment that would make many relatively high price (a good own. Such is the case of the necrobot, a a space adventurer envious. Every thousand kublars) reflects its perfectly dehumanized total atrocity. In sort of blunt and cutting instru- level of sophistication. The cases when an endocity is completely ments ever conceived by man can galactic eye is a completely swept by riots, the Prez, under direct be found hidden in their limbs, as autonomous microsonde orders of the Emperoress, will clone well as loads of weapons and devices that moves through the in- himself into a machine of death. This having diverse functions. terstellar void by small, ul- ultimate manifestation of inhuman In addition, the thick protective tra rapid quantum leaps. power then sets off on an unstoppable layer of silver netranekkon which Space vessels can launch re- descent down through the levels of the covers their precious circuitry and connaissance missions in ev- city, annihilating all forms of life it en- greatly contributes to their weight, can ery direction thanks to this counters. This brutal machine might take a beating without so much as a system, including the hyper- have a human-like superior intelligence, flinch from several hundreds of the space exit points. Its but it can only perform two functions: most commonly used heavy weaponry. miniscule size, unique detect life and destroy it. Undoubtedly because the C.I.S. method of movement, and its Aside from its deadly reflexes and fac- didn’t deem it necessary, the cybo-cops instantaneous and perma- ulties of strategic analysis, the Necrobot are not equipped with an anti-g device. nent connection make it a is equipped with metamorphic abilities Their biped movement is by no means precious tool for thwarting which allow it to alter itself continually impressive, for they barely reach fifty potential traps, in a perim- in order to maximize its power of de- kilometers per hour at their peak. eter that extends out over struction. Whether in the form of a le- However, they can count on their two days of hyper spatial thal ball or long steel serpent, it deals out stamina in every situation. voyage. death from the Golden Ring down to the Due to the type of police missions Acid Lake, into which it finally immerses that are assigned to them, the cybo- itself and dissolves, its massacre at an end. cops are of course also endowed with Another creature born from a mix of a Fantax diode, enhanced with an im- diabolic technology and perverted genes is the Techno- pressive analytical memory. Not only must they under- Scarab, which guards the holy Techno-Temple on the stand and duplicate bio behavior, but they also need to Central Planet. However, unbeknownst to the Ophidiat, have the capacity to compare data and facts and draw all the genetic tampering performed by the Techno- conclusions… Technos carries the seed of their downfall. By dipping into the Tenebrae to impart immaterial force to material sub- MISSIONS stances, they unknowingly bestow all their creations with Like any other endocity troop, the cybo-cops operate a double nature. For the fluid of the Tenebrae is infected as a crackdown unit, quelling repression, but what makes with a “virus of light.” them unique is that they are equally given investigations, which are exclusive to them. This explains why the Fantax CYBO-COPS diode acts as the spinal column or the basis of their true Mechanical combat androids, cybo-cops (also known nature. It is also the reason why at times the cybo-cops’ as cybercops and robocops) make up shock squads that behavior is so surprising. For example, while nothing dis- endocity authorities use to conduct missions requiring a tinguishes one cybo-cop from another, they have insignia bit of diplomacy. Although one may believe that the Hunchbacks and Endoguards being of human origin would have some skill and tact in this area, they end up behaving too coarsely. Better to call in the cybo-cops who are craftier and smoother, but prove themselves to be just as effective when necessary. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Modeled after ancient athletes, the cybo-cops have the look and stature of an admirably well-proportioned man. Having a standard height of 186 centimeters, they weigh an impressive 256 kilos, not including weapons. Without the help of epiphyte, their movement would be severely affected. This seemingly strange density is due to the impressive range of technical panoply concentrated in their bodies. In fact, besides a fusion reactor that uses enriched to 185 decibels in open that nobody understands but makes one think air — or carry on a that there exist thousands of ranks. Likewise, the conversation. weapons they carry vary according to their mood. The eye-cop’s If their soul is feeling every so slightly poetic, they interior is every bit will favor the quaint laser rifle. But if they are over- as sophisticated as come with melancholy, they’ll do their talking with a its exterior. For solid Integrated 1K8 gun in hand. these particularly Due to the range of their activities and teeming “cre- advanced robotic ativity,” the cybo-cops are under the strict surveillance specimens are Chapter 16 • 146 of the Central Brain. At times, for the well running and highly autonomous, balance of an endocity, one or a few cybo-cops are re- and possess a mind that quired to act in secrecy and with extreme discretion…. is readily argumentative. This tight control is explained by the fact that they stock The C.I.S. endowed them with a countless quantities of secrets in their electronic memo- Fantax diode, no doubt to guarantee results on the spy- ries, which constitutes a powerful temptation for small ing front. Strictly speaking it is not a conventional artifi- groups and other troublemakers. Exploring a cybo-cop’s cial intelligence program, but rather a routine of behav- head is the occasion to immediately be informed of all of ior emulating the whimsical and unpredictable, qualities the endocity’s security measures and workings. It is said, so dear to humans. It is therefore not so rare to meet up moreover, that commandos wouldn’t hesitate to attack with a eye-cop who is plunged into an animated conver- isolated cybo-cops to seize their precious quartz neurons. sation with somebody (while all the time keeping a watch- ful eye out on the surroundings, of course). Certain hu- SAMPLE CYBO-COPS mans even have the conviction that a eye-cop can be sweet If you play the Metabarons Roleplaying Game, you can talked…. find game characteristics for cybo-cops on pages 14–15 To supply these devices with the power they need, each of Guidebook #1 to Path of the Warrior. eye-cop has a veritable micro-nuclear plant integrated into its system, using enriched netrankekkon fusion, coupled EYE-COPS with an epiphyte diffuser. The eye-cops thus have the Whether they patrol alone or in teams, eye-cops are a advantage of using anti-gravitational movement to travel fantastic means of power for the authority that controls at absolutely staggering speeds. Advancing in a straight and activates them, for they ensure a veritable omnipres- line, along the major arteries and upper-level rings, they ence in every nook and cranny that they are able to reach. easily break the sound barrier, and would reach Mach III In the endocities, they work on behalf of the C.I.S., through or IV given enough open space. the intermediary of the Supra-computer, the Central Brain The enriched energy charge they contain equally serves for which they are the eyes and ears. as an autodestruction system. This function is extremely useful for remote-control bombs. But this is not the only TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS objective, for a necro-program also oversees the opera- Eye-cops are metalloid spheres having a diameter of tion and functioning of the Fantax diodes. In case of ex- between 4.52 centimeters for the smallest and 19.54 cen- cessive overheating, a self-termination order is immedi- timeters for the largest. This difference in size in no way ately given to the dysfunctional eye-cop. According to modifies their qualities and characteristics, it simply al- certain sources, it seems that on the black market one can lows for greater or smaller discretion, depending upon find models of defective eye-cops that have refused to the needs of the mission. On their exterior surface, com- autodestruct. posed of silver netranekkon, three distinct elements stand MISSIONS out. First of all, and largest in size, is the camera. Circular in appearance, it constitutes a pre-eminent sphere with Surveillance instruments par excellence, the eye-cops countless facets. It is in fact a black crystal prism, which haunt all levels of the endocities by the millions. But they assures 360-degree vision. This camera is permanently are not only found in the city shafts, of course. Authori- linked to Police Central and the Central Brain, via a con- ties of a good many worlds have recourse to these instru- nection in the absolutely interference free super-frequen- ments for the control of their cities, as well as for more cies. Immediately beneath the camera’s black eye appears confidential missions like espionage and infiltration. In a small hole placed at the summit of a tiny pyramid. It’s fact, their great versatility allows them to be highly effi- the barrel through which shoot out the awesome and en- cient in all sorts of circumstances. Everything is therefore ergetic shots that each eye-cop is able to fire. Its plasma a question of the right dosage of autonomy and judicious shots fly a distance of up to two hundred meters with use of the Fantax diode. diabolic precision. In terms of fire power, a eye-cop is at In the Endocities, the eye-cops are assigned to follow least as formidable as a good old cogan 45…. Finally, it would-be detectives. This assignment serves a double pur- has a type of membrane about the size of a kublar coin, pose: to keep an eye on the aspiring detective and his ac- covered by wire mesh. It’s the vocal interface through tivities, as well as to confirm the successful conclusion of which the eye-cop can, if it chooses, shriek orders — up the “investigation test” assigned to the postulant. T R A N S P O R T A T I O N

In an intergalactic domain as vast as the Human Em- motor that provides propulsion and traction, but the pire, the issue of transportation and shipping is clearly of rest is traditional: axles, shock absorbers, wheels, tires, major importance. The renowned Techno-Tunnels — fa- steering, transmission, and so forth. Although these mous interstellar tunnels opened by the Church of the vehicles are light-years ahead of even Terra Prima’s most Industrial Saints — offer a practical way to cross vast advanced models, such as the Buick Centurion, they interstellar distances, thereby forging links between gal- are still far from the best. Much better is available: ev- axies so distant that not even their dimmest light can be erything from gliding vehicles, one or two-seater scoot- seen. Even then, they only link 22,000 of the thousands ers that can fly at 500 kilometers an hour ten feet above of millions of worlds that exist within the universe. One the ground, to massive super-comfortable mega-convoys might travel millions of light-years in an instant, but then for public transportation that can travel 2,000 kilometers face a journey of millions of parsecs before reaching one’s to another city in less than half an hour. Epyphite has destination. truly introduced wonders to the universe! Such possibilities can only inspire the creativity of the TRANSPORTATION inventors. Every world, depending on its financial assets Hyperspace routes are the only feasible option for this and the disposition of its leaders, has created its own trans- type of local travel, if it can so be called. Ever since the portation system for the ground, the atmosphere, and light barrier was broken, this form of travel became com- outside the atmosphere. Making a comprehensive list of pletely safe and reliable. All routes have been methodi- all vehicles produced in the Empire would be a task not cally explored and mapped out, to prevent travelers from even three Mentreks could accomplish with all eternity at encountering nasty natural surprises (like asteroid fields their disposal. Nonetheless, the following is a short sample or black holes) until exiting. Although hyperspace itself is of human ingenuity that might be encountered on a jour- completely safe, unpleasant shocks can occur when emerg- ney through space. ing from it. There is no risk of collision, because the exit UILD OF MPERIAL ERCHANTS points are carefully positioned in areas far removed from G I M major stellar trade routes, but rather from a pirate wel- CARGO DREADNAUGHT coming committee! Near strategically important systems A colossal space behemoth designed for commercial use, or worlds that belong to some particular group, frequent the Guild’s cargo ship is a heavy vessel whose harmless patrols protect travelers from this kind of unwelcome in- appearance should not fool an eager pirate. Like many cident. But on the more isolated routes, the only measure Techno-Techno creations, it hides dark secrets on the in- that will decrease the high risk is adjusting the exit coor- terior, much worse than could be imagined. It’s no coinci- dinates. In normal cases, space cartographers have allowed dence that these ships are the ones selected to carve their enough of a margin to permit this type of departure — way through space, ferrying the treasures and beauty of there should be no asteroid fields within two light-years the universe back to the bosom of the C.I.S. It is jam- of an exit point. However, it is always better not to play packed from bow to stern with technological features that with fire. make it either a fierce predator or an unassailable for- After these escapades in outer space comes the time for tress. Aside from its weapons and the 5,000 Techno-tech- displacement through the atmosphere. The introduction nicians who run the ship, it also carries 1,000 Techno- of epyphite to the Empire has greatly improved things in assassins whose reputation for murder and mayhem is this field. True, vehicles with a hovering capacity existed truly well-deserved. a long time before, but the enormous engine required to create an acceptable level of convenience kept the con- TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS figurations somewhat limited — no sporty two-seaters or The ship is approximately 1,500 meters long and sacri- even any eighteen-seater limo-crafts! Today, a swanky two- fices elegance for an imposing bulk. Due to its primary seater will take less than two minutes to reach the strato- function, it has huge holds for its precious cargo. The five sphere, and can be drifting through space a minute later. lower decks, all pressurized, are devoted to freight stor- The return trip is just as quick: once the atmospheric bar- age, while an interdeck area is devoted to holding space rier has been breached, a ship can avoid all the convo- fighters. The five upper decks are for the passengers and luted approach maneuvers of the past and simply head crew. The Techno-Techno troops live in very basic quar- down at full speed, lightly tapping the brakes at ten meters ters. The ship’s officers, all higher-ranking functionaries above the ground. The epyphite — a true miracle of na- in the Techno-Techno order, enjoy more formal quarters ture — absorbs everything, g-forces and hull deforma- and a mess hall. tions alike. On the ground run wheeled vehicles, driven by SPEED AND PROPULSION Troglosocialiks or nostalgic enthusiasts of the paleo-past. A huge propulsion chamber runs through the length of A hydrogen battery has replaced the horrible combustion the whole ship, from the bow to the rear tubes. Thanks to navigator, and gunners are treated with epyphite. Anyone the C.I.S.’s secret technology, it can deliver aboard one of these ships is strongly advised to stick to rather impressive performances. It can go from a their seat when the pilot turns on the juice. The three en- cruising speed of 50,000 kilometers per hour to gine blocks are equally spaced along the center and the above light speed at 1,080,000,000 kilometers per wings, and can be used either together or separately in hour in 36.3 seconds. Overcoming the inertia of a ship order to execute acrobatic maneuvers such as spinning of that size requires an absolute mastery of epyphite. dives, twirls, and spirals like a falling leaf. Aside from the cockpit and the four gunners’ posts, the interior is com- CREW pletely bare. The ship holds 6,000 people. They handle naviga- Chapter 17 • 148 tion and maintenance as well as seeing to the security of SPEED AND PROPULSION the ship and carrying out operations in atmosphere. This ship’s reputation as the dragster of the universe is based solely on its acceleration. Nonetheless, despite ARMAMENTS its jack-rabbit starts, the acceleration drops off after -Firing posts: 20 flak cannons and 10 laser cannons. that, so it takes 43.7 seconds to go from cruising speed -Shields: There is an entire range of positronic screens, to above light speed, which is not exceptional for such protective shields, supraradars, and electro-spies. a small vehicle. -Armor: The white netranekkon hull includes reinforcements that no known technique can breach. CREW -Capacity: The Guild’s cargo-vessel can hold approxi- There are seven men aboard, four gunners and three to mately 200,000 tons — or 566,000 cubic meters — which fly the ship. allows it to transport a large and very precious cargo. ARMAMENTS GAME CHARACTERISTICS -Firing posts: 1 laser array and 3 heavy cannon turrets. Game characteristics for this ship can be found on pages - Shields: Shields are unnecessary on an attack vessel 251–252 of the Metabarons Roleplaying Game rule book. that depends on its speed. -Armor: The high-quality alloyed hull is strong enough THE PIRATE OSTROV-CLASS to resist the first few salvoes. MINI-FIGHTER -Capacity: A mere two-ton capacity gives the Ostrov-class Mini-Fighter just enough room to hold its ammunition. The ultimate multi-purpose vessel, the Ostrov-Class Mini-Fighter has such a frightening level of firepower that GAME CHARACTERISTICS it makes its other performance characteristics look weak. Game characteristics for this ship Highly maneuverable and capable of can be found on page 257 of the astonishingly quick acceleration, it is the Metabarons Roleplaying Game rule ideal vessel for sudden ambushes, and Speed at Top book. therefore much-cherished by pirates. Speed! They were designed by a Mentrek in the As everybody knows, the TECHNO-DESTROYER Maganat of the Poly-Romanoffs, whose supraluminumic speed bar- The Techno-Destroyer not only be- name they bear. They were originally rier has been broken… This longs in the family of gigantic space- conceived for close defense of a planet. fact no longer impresses any- craft, but it expands the very definition Grouped around large asteroids, they body but troglosocialik of the term. It contains a tremendous would swarm upon any heavy vessel archeo- baboons. Talk to me amount of carrying capacity, but instead that penetrated the more distant lines about chromosomic speed, of transporting goods or merchandise, of defense. This tactic was efficient and that’s a bit better. It brought it carries weapons and space-fighters. highly deadly. After being used a num- much to our beloved Empire. The crew’s quarters are above the tech- ber of times, it became clear that the But here comes the legend- nical spaces of navigation and control, ship would be very effective as an at- ary mental V-Quartzz, that occupying the top hundred decks. A tacking vessel. which carries you at the massive chamber, 125 meters high, runs TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS speed of thought. Yahoo!! through the middle of the ship and of- It’ll knock your socks off! fers an unsurpassable view of the inter- Twenty meters long and thirty-five But apparently there’s even stellar void. meters wide, the Ostrov-Class mini- better still. The Shabda-Oud fighter has nothing in common with a witches’ famous Pradex TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS cruise ship or pleasure vessel. Its design punctual-chrono-G. It rips The Techno-Destroyer not only be- is totally efficient and austere. Three through time itself, leaving it longs in the family of gigantic space- enormous central boosters give it phe- behind. You’re there before craft, but it expands the very defini- nomenal acceleration, which can pro- you’ve even started to go…. tion of the term. It contains a tremen- duce spectacular results inside the ship, dous amount of carrying capacity, but since only the seat of the pilot, co-pilot, instead of transporting goods or merchandise, it carries weapons and space-fighters. The crew’s quarters are above the technical spaces of navigation and maneuvers near ground level that make a com- 149 • Transportation control, occupying the top hundred decks. A massive plete mockery of gravity. Due to its military func- chamber, 125 meters high, runs through the middle of the tion, the interior of the vehicle is relatively bare, ship and offers an unsurpassable view of the interstellar without cabins or any forms of comfort. void. The ship’s design is wholly military, and very little It contains three separate compartments: the cock- refinement appears anywhere, except of course in the pri- pit, a cabin for the Endoguard, and the hold. When in vate quarters of the Techno-cardinal who commands it. space, all three are pressurized. It is shaped like a par- allelogram, measuring seventy-eight meters long and SPEED AND PROPULSION thirty-six meters wide, and weighs 89,658 tons when Although this ship’s method of propulsion is shrouded empty. Each Endoguard Troop Transport Ship also has in the greatest secrecy by the C.I.S., the frankly astonish- an entirely automated support vehicle at its disposal ing performances it demonstrates give it great public no- which follows at a distance. It is an identical ship, con- toriety. A Techno-Destroyer can go from cruising speed taining enough spare parts to build at least three other to hyperlight speed in 18.2 seconds. Clearly, the powers transports. of epyphite as well as many other marvels make a significant contribution to these achievements. SPEED AND PROPULSION Fitted with a superevolved hydrogen motor, the CREW Endoguard Troop Transport Ship can reach a speed of On board are 20,000 people, including 10,000 Techno- 2256 kilometers per hour just one meter above the ground. assassins and 5,000 Techno-technicians who carry out In space, it could theoretically reach light speed, but that experimental tasks in the ship-board laboratories. is not the main purpose for which it was designed. ARMAMENT CREW -Firing posts: Visible on outside: 50 heavy cannons One hundred pepole are aboard. Two pilot and navi- (crew: 5 each; skill: gunnery, fire control: 2D, space range: gate the ship, two operate the guns, leaving the remaining 3-20/40/80; atmosphere: 6-40/80/160 km; damage: 6D), ninety-six available for deployment. 50 flak cannons (crew: 3 each; scale: fighter; skill: gunnery, fire control: 2D, space range: 1-10/15/30; atmo- ARMAMENT sphere: 300-500 m/1 km/2 km; damage: 5D+2), and 50 -Firing posts: 1 heavy turret-mounted multi-cogan laser cannons (crew: 4 each; skill: gunnery, fire control: (crew: 1; skill: gunnery, fire control: 1D, space range: 1-2/ 2D, 3-20/40/80; atmosphere: 6-40/80/160 km; damage: 10/20; atmosphere: 100-200 m/1 km/2 km; damage: 4D). 6D+2). -Shields: Positronic screens, protective shields, supra- -Shields: 1 maxi-protonic screen. (Shields: 3D+2.) radars and electro-spies. (Shields: 6D; sesnors: 200/5D.) -Armor: White netranekkon plates on the outer struc- -Armor: The hull seems to be made of white ture. (Hull: 5D.) netranekkon. (Hull: 11D.) -Capacity: 100 tons. -Capacity: Estimated to be 500,000 tons. -Maneuverabilty: 2D. Crew skill: astro- -Maneuverabilty: 1D. Crew skill: astro-nav nav 4D, comm 4D+2, gunnery 6D, pi- 5D, comm 5D, gunnery 5D, piloting 6D, sen- loting 6D, sensors 5D, shields 5D+1, sors 5D, shields 5D, command 6D. command 6D. ENDOGUARD TROOP TRANSPORT SHIP This medium-sized hybrid vessel is the ship that peace-loving people of the Empire most fear to see darken their skies. The shadow that its massive silhouette casts over them is the spec- ter of death itself. Despite its rather mundane appearance, this military ship is a harbinger of devastation. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS This is an atmospheric transport ship, but it is also capable of traveling into outer space, for example, to join a heavier vessel in orbit. As the transport of the mightiest force in the Empire, it includes all the latest technology. It is also well-endowed with epyphite, and can perform T H E M E T A B U N K E R

The unchanging heart of the Metabaron, the THE EXTERIOR Metabunker is an inviolable fortress, holy sanctuary of the Clan of Castaka and repository of their many se- The Metabunker is large and completely immaculate, crets, occupied by the eternally frenzied activity of the with the pure and perfectly-faceted appearance of a dia- robots Lothar and Tonto, the only two beings that the mond. This similarity to an ancient mineral is not entirely Metabaron considers his friends. But the Metabunker coincidental. The Metabunker’s facets might not quite is much more than that… It is a lair forever empty, a feature the same impeccable regularity as this gem, but place of tragic solitude through which its master’s foot- then again their respective functions are not quite identi- steps will never again echo… although his presence re- cal either. Gems are prisms; they capture light, sending it mains everywhere. back out again in many directions through refraction, enlivening and magnifying it. The Metabunker is like a A QUICK OVERVIEW black hole that absorbs all forms of energy without ex- It was built in the year 29900 by Othon, with his conception, acting as a point of convergence for all the en- siderable architectural talents and the help of Honorata ergy in the universe. and Tonto. It is the ultimate machine of war, representing However, it does share with diamonds their absolute a true synthesis of the ancient warrior ways of the Clan of hardness and insurmountable solidity. Its well-planned Castaka, with the new destructive and creative talents held shape serves another specific purpose. When any impact by the Metabaron as guardian of the or direct attack comes its way, it does not match it with universe. In that time, the Metabunker equal resistance, but instead protects was a symbol of power and proud soli- itself by maintaining a state of per- tude, designed to serve not only as the The Essence of petual deflection. Every single facet final base for the persecuted clan, but Epiphyte presents a deceptive and off-set angle also as a platform of reconquest from Endowed with an impen- that wards any blow off into infinity. which a deadly force would spring forth etrable armature and rein- Even if the Metabunker were to crash to annihilate their enemies. forcement, equipped with against a planet, regardless of relative This citadel, equipped with cold and the most powerful weapons mass and speed, it is the planet that beautiful technological refinements, also of any space armada, rich would certainly burst into contains terrifying weapons and powers with powers uniting the best smithereens. so genuinely horrifying that their mere of technology with the es- However, the fact that it uses such mention would freeze the blood of even sence of Gangez, the devices of deception does not mean the most-hardened combatants. Of Metabunker defies the laws that the Metabunker is weak in the course, everything in the realm of human of gravity and physics. slightest. Just the opposite: its strength and non-human technology is in its on- Heavier than the most crush- and peerless solidity make it a unique board armory, but there are other suring of major planets, it slips and unassailable stronghold that will prises in store for any attacker whose ex- through the stellar void at never be breached. the speed of fundamental cessive optimism or unbridled arrogance STRUCTURE would lead him to defy the forbidding particles and with a single The Metabunker was built ac- stronghold. First, he would have to face leap crosses the frontiers of cording to the principles of psycho- one of the formidable bio-electrograms worlds and dimensions. Its modular architecture. It follows the generated by the Metabaron’s solidifica- singular nature, intimately patterns of dreams that come be- tion program. These manifestations of the linked to the powers of epi- tween wakefulness and sleep, where warrior of warriors are just as taciturn phyte, makes this uncom- the most outlandish images with no as he is, and share the idea of efficiency mon construction a veritable discernible meaning string them- carried to its highest degree, since they paradox, a tangible incarna- selves together with apparent logic. are only granted three minutes, five and tion of the gravity principle. In other words, it is a vast whole of seven-hundredths seconds in which to Many see in the Metabunker small interlocking pieces brought emerge victorious, and they have never a second universe door, sym- together by some incomprehensible yet failed. Even when it is perfectly at rest bol of Mardador’s duality, geometric pattern, but its final co- and the Metabaron is absent, the the weight of the worlds and hesion is perfect and indestructible. Metabunker is a tough nut at the center the lightness of infinity, but This conglomeration of facets is as- of the universe, hard to crack. Nothing no one would dare wonder sembled over a substructure that can penetrate its defenses or destroy it. what type of reality can re- makes white netranekkon seem as Only its creator or one of his manifesta- ally guard over this free flimsy as paper. This internal struc- tions could damage it, but fortunately, flowing portal. ture is not only solid, but can also that does not occur very often. stretch like a spinal cord, serving as the base for the complicated whole that gives the Metabunker its sta- sphere of Planet Perdita, whose gravity at 151 • The Metabunker tus as the absolute fortress of the universe. ground level is absolutely phenomenal — more than a thousand times greater than Terra Prima’s. DEFENSES No known vessel in the universe can escape the In strict military terms, the Metabunker presents a bat- clutches of such a powerful force. The Metabunker, tery of all kinds of defenses of a range and efficiency un- however, by drawing its power directly from the cen- matched to this day, and which will probably go un- tral energy source of the whole universe, can generate matched for a long time to come. In the field of detection a force even greater than a black hole — with the dif- and warning, it utilizes maxi-protonic sensors whose range ference that it is not a fixed point in the cosmos. When can surpass by an order of several hundred even the high- it begins to move, its power and acceleration are in the est-performance models produced by the Church of the same order as the forces present at the beginning of the Industrial Saints. For this reason, even daring to dream of universe at the Big Bang plus one micro-nanosecond. taking the Metabunker by surprise is totally inconceiv- Inside the Metabunker, each of the compartments is able. Furthermore, in the highly-unlikely event that some also equipped with its own independent propulsion sys- headstrong fool would attempt to do so, he would still tem. On a much smaller scale, this allows it to maintain have many lines of defense to penetrate: multi-positronic cohesion with its adjacent sections and to counteract op- shields, infraprotonic barricades, and the meta-armored posing forces and structural deformities that might affect hull plating. And all of that is nothing when compared to the structure’s equilibrium. The essential characteristic of the energy sphere which surrounds the ship with a bluish the Metabunker is that its multitude of parts form a unique halo, keeping it safely nestled at the heart of an impen- and complete whole. etrable protective core. The energy nourishing the ship and THE INTERIOR its defenses springs directly from the Exclusive domain of Tonto and his universe guarded by Gangez. This in- much-ridiculed sidekick Lothar, the exhaustible mystic source has such an White Netranekkon Metabunker is a kingdom without a impact on the material world that hu- king, an empty space without an echo, This Techno-Techno alloy mankind would be driven to the brink a home occupied only by a sense of is made using an obsolete of absolute terror if they knew of it. absence. At one time, the Metabaron process of sub-atomic fusion Only another such power, another cus- destroyed his deserted lair; but Tonto that was already in use on todian of a different universe, would — interpreting the Holy Laws of Ro- Terra Prima. It unites the dare to challenge the Metabunker. But botics to his own ends, like a paleo- durability of netranekkon even so, he would still have to face the Jesuit — reconstructed it, in a touch- metal, literally as hard as a Metabaron’s warrior spirit, infusing the ing, relentless, but ultimately futile and diamond, with the molecu- fortress down to its smallest particle and tedious ritual of hope. Just as before, lar fluidity of the scales of a breathing into it an implacable will to immense metallic girders stretch in all great white paleo-shark. This win. This suppressed and unstable ex- directions, riddled with shafts and con- organo-metallic combina- plosive fury that wishes only to be ex- duits and other mysterious passage- tion is actually a composite pressed forms the deepest philosophi- ways. The master’s sumptuous apart- whose own immune system cal core of the mighty ship. The force ments overflow with a thousand trea- protects it from external becomes apparent when we see the sures, while a few lush gardens bring forces. When a white “Porcupine Defense” in action, which color, and the sounds of bubbling netranekkon hull receives thrusts out hundreds of millions of brooks and singing birds… But it’s all any kind of impact, it sim- heavy weapons through every interstice, for nothing, because the man it’s de- ply absorbs the energy before ready to spit their deadly and fiery signed for is there no longer. Only reverting to its original state, tongues. Its firepower is capable of Lothar and Tonto roam, overcome which is preserved in its sub- obliterating absolutely all creatures and with their misery. Lothar is the more atomic memory. This ability things in the universe. Finally, if it ever desperate, for Tonto seems to harbor to shape shift also allows it did face a truly insurmountable adver- some obscure knowledge that keeps his aerodynamic optimization at sary, the Metabunker — in an act wor- faith alive, occupying whatever circuits the moment of entering the thy of its master — would not hesitate serve as his spirit. to self-destruct, taking the universe with atmosphere. However, the it if necessary, to wipe reality clean of alloy has one disadvantage: FIXTURES its weight. Because of its such an abomination. Although this immense construc- great mass, just handling it tion is primarily devoted to the glory PROPULSION requires colossal force that of the Metabaron, the portion allo- prohibits its use for To move a structure of such dimen- cated to his personal use is propor- armoring smaller ships. sions requires colossal energy, especially tionally very minor. But it is not in- since it was constructed in the atmo- significant, either. Sumptuously fur- nished and outfitted, his private apartments offer the latest that technology can provide in refinement and comfort. Somewhat off-center in relation to the actual heart of the ship, this human area contains a number of characteristics designed to lighten the Metabaron’s bitter disillusion. For example, there is a marvelous hydroponic park where Aghnar used to stroll with the preg- nant Oda-Honorata, which indulges the Chapter 18 • 152 senses with a fairylike symphony of color, sound, smell, and taste, under the loving caress of an artificial sun that adjusts itself to the whims of its visitors. But the rest of it is entirely Tonto’s domain. This little mechanical being is the only one who can find his way through this assortment of rooms of all sizes, some smaller than an alcove and others as large as a paleo-stadium. Only he knows the function of each location, and how to enter it. Most of them are laboratories where he carries out the most bizarre and extreme experiments, a disembodied alchemist free of all human constraints. All the rooms are hermetically separate and totally independent of one another, however connected they may be. Even gravity between them can vary, to the extent that the ceiling of one might be the floor of the other. Lastly, each room has its own distinct voice, and often, for his own pleasure, Tonto makes the Metabunker sing — a tremendous chorus, with hundreds of thousands of voices. THE SUPRA-LOGIC LABYRINTH The Metabunker can be seen as a complex but coherent union of diverging elements, in its own way representing the converging development of fragments of ideas that lead to reasoning. The Metabunker is an inorganic soul, and the fractal geography of its Supra- Logic Labyrinth mimics the meandering convolutions of thought, periodically interspersed with spontaneous in- typical Metabarons Roleplaying Game character will never tuition and inspirations of genius. Tonto, the near-god- come across it. like conductor of this grand assemblage, intends by his The Metabunker has everything any human could need control of it to recreate a kind of primal chaos out of or desire, can move anywhere at whim, and cannot be which a new intelligence will rise… Rather than strive to destroyed or penetrated without the Metabaron’s express recreate an organism as simple as human, he well and permission. In other words, should the Metabunker ap- truly intends to reproduce a creative intellect, which is pear in some adventure, whatever the gamemaster says it endowed with free will and capable of suffering and feel- can do or has, it can or does. ing emotions. For more game mechanics on the bio-electrogram, look on pages 27–28 of Guidebook #1 to Path of the Warrior. AME NFORMATION G I For more information about creating a own home base No human — other than the Metabarons, their mates, for players’ characters, see page 40 of Guidebook #1. For and their children — has ever been aborad the help with general ship creation, peruse pages 72–80 of Metabunker. In fact, nothing other than what the Meta- the Companion Book to the Game Master Screen. baron allows to be there, is there. For this reason, the G L O S S A R Y

Acid Lake — The theoretical bottom of an Endocity Ekonomat — A major pillar of the Empire, whose under which, in reality, extends a gigantic underground discretion is only equal to its power. The Ekonomat has universe. the upper hand on all financial activities in the Human Universe. Alien — A creature of the cosmos whose original strain does not originate from Terra Prima. All forms of intelli- Emperoress — Trans-Bourbon heir, absolute sover- gence, even humanoids, are regarded as aliens. eign over all the worlds in the Human Universe and sole representative of the Omni-Nobility. Equally Amarax — A source of inner vitality for those who strive known as the Perfect Androgyne, Supreme Hermaphro- to harmonize their physical heart with their spiritual heart. dite, and the Sublime Chosen One. In other words, those who lead their lives according to the code of conduct they have chosen for themselves. Empire — Federated alliance of worlds in the Human Universe, placed under the Emperoress’s supreme author- Amourine — Mystical and sacred flower that grows in ity. Golden Planet’s pure gold or in angelic hearts. It permits a spiritual regeneration for those who consume it. Endocity — Terratransformed city shafts, where billions of individuals live, crammed into the bowels of the Aristos — Nobility who live at the top of Endocities. planet that houses them. They are generally considered inferior to the Infra-Nobil- ity. See also Nobility. Endo-fringe — The zone comprising the interior of the fringe’s boundaries. The endo-fringe generally refers to Church of the Industrial Saints — The Empire’s official the Empire. religion and a major pillar of the Empire. The Church’s overt submission to Imperial authority amounts to pure Exo-fringe — The zone beyond the fringe. The Empire charade. Equally called the C.I.S., Techno-Technos Or- is working towards establishing its authority in this area. der, Magnus Dei, pan-Techno Church, Techno-Pontificate, the Holy Industrial Church, or H.I.C. Fringe — The Human Empire’s frontier zone. This zone does not strictly correspond to the Human Universe’s geo- Confederacy of Colonial Planets — An alliance of graphical boundaries. worlds, peopled with humans from Terra Prima’s last emigration wave, who are faithful to the Empire. Loyal Guardians of the Doors — Six in number, these are the to paleo-Marx precepts, they are also called Colonials. superior creatures who guard the Human Universe’s six They are a major pillar of the Empire. doors. They are sometimes also called Gargales.

Confederacy of Parallel Universes — An assembly bring- Hunchbacks — The Prez’s private guard, made up ing together representatives from parallel universes neigh- of “remodeled” human elements who are particularly boring the Human Universe. Its purpose is to arbitrate violent. controversies associated with “common ownership.” Hyperspace — A dimension entered by all material bod- Borders — The Human Universe’s final frontier zone, ies once launched at a speed greater than the speed of in direct contact with neighboring universes. Certain con- light, and in which that body can travel without being fines are civilized — the Empire ensures a constant sur- affected by material elements in its path. veillance in the majority of these areas — but for the most part, they are barbarian and at the mercy of the hordes Hypertele — Television medium broadcasting to a uni- with unpredictable tempers who travel across them. verse -wide audience whose programs — which promote sensationalism to the detriment of all other issues — per- Council, the — The Emperoress’s inner circle of advi- manently inundate the major and minor worlds of the sors, made up of imperial Mentreks, the Imperial Neo- cosmos. Tarologue Goyo-Vah, and the Neo-Troubadour Vico da Sangle. Imperial Court — The Golden Palace assembly, on Golden Planet, where members of the Nobility are autho- Doors of the Universe — Six in number, these doors rized to make an appearance. are passageways through which surge currents coming from neighboring universes. Necro-Dream — A mindless state suffered by those who Imperial Merchants Guild — The Imperial are exposed to the Techno-Techno’s sinister plan of ac- institution bringing together merchants, working tion and its ensuing long term effects. The hypertele and in strict collaboration with the Church of the In- legal drugs are effective means of propagating the Necro- dustrial Saints, and within the frame work of regula- Dream. tions defined by StellCom. This is also called the Guild of Imperial Merchants. Neo-Tarologue — A Neo-Tarot initiate, the only divinatory art still in use today. There are only four Neo- Interspace — A dimension beyond matter through Tarologues in the entire Empire.

154 • Glossary which the Metabaron travels across the universe, near- ing the speed of instantaneous displacement. Neo-Shabda-Oud Order — Mystical order rebuilt from the ruins of the Shabda-Oud order, which was destroyed Kublar — The Empire’s official currency. by the Metabaron Aghnar.

Kublarian — A member of a secret society who reveres Nobility — A group made up of members of the Archi- the Saint Kublar — and in particular the mythic 10 mil- Nobility, the Nobility, and the Infra-Nobility, whose po- lion original edition coins. litical importance varies according to financial and military criteria. See also aristos. Legal Drugs — Alcoholic or psychotropic products that plunge users into a profound stupor or dazed state. Prez — Supreme Endocity leader, directly under the Whisky, SPV, and Cocaloco Dark are examples of the most Emperoress’s command. At more or less regular intervals, widely used products. the Prez clones himself into organisms that are each more staggering and unexpected than the one before. Magnate — Fief or kingdom made up of one or several planets or systems belonging to a Noble family. Saint Technology — All systems, products, and mechanisms developed by the Church of the Industrial Saints. Major Forces of the Universe — Six great forces, each Utilization of anything developed by the C.I.S. is consid- one related to the specific nature of a neighboring uni- ered as a mark of allegiance to the C.I.S. verse, are at work in the Human Universe. These ethereal forces are also called flux or currents. Senate — The assembly of the great poles of power in the Human Universe, where representatives of the Four Major World — Planet, system, or galaxy representing Pillars of the Empire have seats. a pole of strategic, political, or commercial importance, and serviced by a Techno-Tunnel. The Human Universe Supra-Executive — The Empire’s administrative branch has 22,000 major worlds. and military wing, composed of the Endoguard (placed under the authority of General Thato) and StellCom. Mentrek — An individual of human origin having undergone cybernetic brain implantation. Techno-Sisters — Female followers of the Church of the Industrial Saints. The C.I.S. is a mixed order. Minor World — All planets, inhabited, or noninhabited that have no Techno-Tunnel service. The Human Universe Techno-Tunnels — A device developed by the Techno- has a near infinite number of minor worlds, which to a Technos to facilitate intersidereal and intergalactic travel. great extent escape the Empire’s authority, and are in re- This immense network crosses the Human Universe’s web ality governed by de facto rule. in every direction, linking 22,000 major worlds of the Human Universe to one another. Mohn — A measure or degree of spiritual awakening among the Neo-Shabda-Oud. Thalasynthesis — The name of the procedure used by the Ekonomat to convert water molecules into hydrogen Multi-cogan — A super powerful weapon, elaborated and oxygen atoms and the converse. by the C.I.S., manufactured on Kogano II, a tiny planet of the Whak system owned by the Poly-Romanoff family. It Tranka — Highly prized by pirates, this extremely pow- is used primarily by the Endoguard troops. erful psychotropic product offers, in addition to its hallucinogenic properties, the possibility to erase the Necro- Mutant — Creature having undergone a mutation of Dream’s harmful effects. his human genes in favor of other living genes, most often animal or vegetable. In the Endocities, the mutants are subjected to general public disgrace by the humans, and are the Hunchbacks’ favorite punching bag. R E A D I N G L I S T

You can read more about the universe of the The Technopriests (Jodorowsky, Janjetov, and Metabarons in the following books. Beltran) — 3 albums. FRENCH BOOKS Above comics, trade paperbacks, and albums published through Humanoids Publishing. Avant l’Incal (Jodorowsky et Janjetov) — 6 albums. The Metabarons Rule Book (Yéti and West End L’Incal (Jodorowsky et Mœbius) — 6 albums. Games). Après l’Incal (Jodorowsky et Mœbius) — book 1: Le Guidebook #1 to Path of the Warrior (West End Nouveau Rêve. Games). La Caste des Méta-Barons (Jodorowsky et Gimenez) Game Master’s Screen with Companion Book (West — 6 albums. End Games). La Maison des Ancêtres (Jodorowsky et Gimenez) — custom made WEB SITES Les Technopères (Jodorowsky, Janjetov, et Beltran) — Les Humanoïdes Associés: www.humano.com 3 albums. Humanoids Publishing: www.humanoids- Above albums published through Les Humanoïdes publishing.com Associés. The Metabarons: www.metabarons.com Les Méta-Barons: Livre de Règles (Yéti et West End Unofficial Metabarons Roleplaying Game Discussion Games). Group (English): groups.yahoo.com/group/ metabaronsrpg/ ENGLISH BOOKS Unofficial Metabarons Roleplaying Game Discussion The Incal (Jodorowsky and ) — 13 comics and 2 trade Group (French): fr.groups.yahoo.com/group/techno- paperbacks. techno/ The Metabarons (Jodorowsky and Gimenez) — 17 com- West End Games: www.westendgames.com ics, 1 deluxe comic, and 4 trade paperbacks.