SCANIANS REVISITED ------------------ Akiva 0935 A98A869-D N Ri Wa 105 Im A2 V G8 D Home world of The Scanian Culture and the Aquan adaptation. Famous for the Scanian ability to read body language and Scanian culinary arts. Akiva is a water world renowned for its fierce beauty. The planet suffered a great deal of persecution during the Psionic repressions due to its open teaching of psionic abilities and its political ties to the Zhodani. The psionic teachings were completely eradicated from the Scanian culture and in 1021 were welcomed back into the Imperium. Scanian Scanians claim to be genetically engineered from Solomani stock by an unknown company between -1,953 and -1,793. They are perfectly adapted for water worlds and/or high gravity planets. Their eyes are protected by a polarised membrane which gives Scanians the appearance of an overall white eye apparently devoid of iris or pupil. Membranes in the ears and nose prevent drowning or pressure problems. Bones have been altered and muscle structure increased to cope with high gravity. The Scanian adaptation is also the ancestor of the Aquan which developed from Scanian stock. Today the term Scanian also refers to those who follow the teachings of the Prophet Benjamin Ra'Scania regardless of race. The teachings of Scania are supposed to teach its followers never to lie or cheat and to give them the ability to read the truth in others. Aquan Aquans are Akivan descendants that have been fully adapted for amphibious living in oxygen-bearing oceans. They are descended from an early geneering experiment carried out before -1,793 and are considered by many almost a separate race. The Aquan is able to breath on the surface as well as under water but the adaptions resulted in a loss of speech. To compensate the Aquans have evolved a complex sign language. WHO ARE THE SCANIANS? These notes are drawn from a lecture given by Professor Surthi Mataria at the University of Medurma in 1005. "...The Terrans of that time had great medical abilities, and without their extensive knowledge we would not be nearly as advanced in the field of Human medicine as we are today. Terran interests were wide ranging, covering such topics as psychology, disease and ageing. The results of that work are well known: who has not heard of Anagathics? But the Terrans also conducted research into a darker area, genetics. They achieved marvellous things with genetics. Deformities could be corrected, some hereditory diseases were eliminated, and new limbs and organs could be grown. But it also created dangerous possibilities. Geneering could be used to create 'Supermen', and much later the Ushran's demonstrated the flaws and dangers of such a course. This leads us to the Scanians and the Aquans. For years they have presented a mystery to Imperial Genetobiologists. Most evidence points to their being geneered from ordinary Humans by the Terrans, but if this is the case it raises some major questions. The main problem is that the supposed Terran achievements cannot be fully reproduced today. The Second Imperium achieved an overall TL of twelve, but was as advanced as TL fourteen in areas such as medicine. No other bioengineering project carried out during the Rule of Man ever had results comparable to their successes on Akiva. True, study of Scanian genetics coupled with certain fragmentary records did help in the successful geneering of the Jonkeereen in less than five centuries but there is no conclusive proof that the original alterations were carried out by an unknown Solomani company. Genesis, the site of the original Terran base, was discovered by the visionary Benjamin R'Scania. All that he found has been carefully preserved. The records contain huge amounts of technical information as well as a history of Akiva's settlement, but nowhere does it detail how those first Humans were modified. Akiva itself hasn't helped in the quest for truth. The high salt content and humidity is not conducive to the preservation of fossil material. We cannot tell what lived there before the the establishment of Genesis. Even the so-called mutated sub-species that apparently existed at that time are pure conjecture - no remains have survived. Is it possible that Terran geneers achieved all this? Many generations of scientists must have conducted the experiments, even using such things as artificial wombs and growth drugs on the specimens. It becomes even more remarkable when we believe that there were many other types of modificatied Humans on Akiva, although they apparently died out during the Long Night. My colleagues argue that such changes were not possible, and based on my own research it has to be admitted that this seems true. Some point out the similarities between the Scanians and the Ziadd (a Minor Human Race located in Zeda subsector), while there are noticeable parallels between the Aquans and other MHRs. The conclusion I must draw is that the Scanians and Aquans were NOT created from unmodified Human stock. They seem to be the result of selective breeding using genetic material from MHRs as well as ordinary Humans. Those MHRs had already been modified by the Ancients, and using them as a basis the Terrans produced a number of totally new Humans, including the Scanians and Aquans familiar to us today..." A reply by Rabbani Yosua Khaldun, Yarhei Kel'a lecture, Gamala University 1013 "Despite the many and frequent hysterical claims of Solomani Party spokespeople over the years, the Sanhedra Ben Hakhamim stand by their original claim as to the origin of the Akivan races. Scanians were created by man, not by the Ancients. All logical evidence points towards the Scanians being genetically engineered by an unknown Solomani company; why else would the Company have gone to such lengths to hide their corporate identity? Why journey to Akiva to establish a secret base? Unless they knew that they were about to experiment in medical travesties unparalleled since 1945 (Terran Calendar)? They knew that their work would result in mutations and deaths. They knew that if they were discovered that society would have branded them as the mass murderers they were. Yet, what a prize. To experiment without limitations on man. By testing to racial destruction they could learn a great deal about the species. They had no-one limiting how far they could go. Judging by the records that survived they had no conscience. Almost by accident they hit upon two viable races - The Scanians and Aquans. Then they fled in haste, abandoning their secret base almost over night. They apparently only removed such equipment as could possibly be used as evidence against them. Why? All other bases abandoned because of the onslaught of the Long Night were stripped bare. Not Genesis. Did they flee because there was the risk of discovery? Did they hope that the planet would destroy their experiments or perhaps, as one fragmentary record hints at, they themselves tried to destroy the races but fled before they had the chance to confirm the success of their viral "final solution"? True, we cannot prove our claim by anthropological means but, by the same token, nor can we be disproved... We make our claim based on the evidence of our eyes and the records left by an unknown Solomani Company long ago. Others may wish to deny it for political reasons but that does not make it any less true..." It should be remembered that the above views are theories: nobody is absolutely sure of the true origins of either the Scanians or the Aquans. The following article assumes the Scanian view but most scholars maintain an open view regarding the racial origins. SCANIAN PHYSIOLOGY Scanians claim to have been genetically engineered by an unknown Solomani Geneering Company from normal human stock in order to allow colonisation of high gravity, water worlds. A Scanian male will average 1.8m in height and weights approximately 80 kilograms. A Female averages about 1.6m and 68 kilograms. Height-to-weight ratio for males is 45 kg per metre thereby increasing muscular capacity. The Solomani geneers decided to use a planet in the Dagudashaag sector [0935], which they called Gaea, for their experimentation. To endure the intense cold, high gravity and effects of the sea they altered the colonists genes to create the following mutations: Polarised membrane covering the entire cornea of the eye to protect against sun, wind, dust and spray. This gives Scanians an overall white eye apparently devoid of iris or pupil which darkens to a light grey colour under intense light. Most unadapted humans feel that this gives the Scanian an inscrutable expression. The membrane increases near sight but at the cost of decreased long sight. Elongated eyelashes to protect the membrane from flying dust or salt particles. A pressure-sensitive membrane within the inner ear to protect the ear drum. This membrane is thin enough not to affect sound but hardens under pressure to form a shield. This obviously means that at great pressure the Scanian is rendered almost totally deaf but retains normal balance. This also results in total immunity to motion sickness. Membrane-like filters within the nasal passages allows free flow of gases but prevents flooding by fluids. Secondary layer of subcutaneous fat under the skin to increase resistance against the cold and to increase frontal buoyancy. This means that Scanian males float face up like females rather than face down. Controllable melanin pigment under the skin allows the Scanian body to adapt to increased ultra-violet radiation. A Scanian's tan will darken or fade within 24 hours dependent on the amount of sunlight to which the body is subjected. Skin excretion of a water-proof oil which completely covers the skin to the depth of 1 micron. This enables the Scanian to remain absolutely dry even when swimming. Increased circulatory system to maintain blood flow under higher gravity. Bones altered so that they are composed of an internal honey-combed structure to increase weight-bearing capacity without increased weight. Increased muscle structure to enable Scanians to cope with higher gravity without hindering work ability. Small breasts in females to prevent excessive drag due to increased gravity and to better streamline the figure. APPEARANCE Scanian tend towards apparently fragile features, long eyelashes, white to grey featureless eyes, a crop of white course hair on the head and a lack of body hair on the rest of the physique. The Scanian male is tall, usually olive skinned, well muscled with an ease of movement that belays the high gravities of the worlds they usually frequent. Females are generally tall, long white hair, full lips with a deceptive slimness. AQUAN PHYSIOLOGY Aquans are Scanians that have been fully adapted for amphibious living in oxygen-bearing oceans. They are descended from one of the early geneering experiments and are considered by many almost a separate race from the Scanians. The further alterations carried out by the geneers consists of: Valve placed deep in the trachea which is formed from 3 leaf-like cusps of a thin but fibrous tissue which can be voluntarily closed by reflex action to prevent flooding of the lungs. At the rear of the throat near the Oropharynx is a gill. This extracts oxygen from the water entering the mouth by using the genetically strengthened muscles of the oropharynx to force water through the gill. The extracted oxygen is passed to specialised alveoli in the chest cavity while the excess carbon dioxide is used to expel the de-oxygenated water through the Aquan's blow hole at the rear of the neck. A major disadvantage of this adaption was the total loss of speech. To compensate the Aquans have evolved a complex sign language which they use in the place of a spoken one as a result. In addition Aquans have an extremely streamlined body structure with retractable genitalia in the males. The fingers and toes have elongated and a thin fibrous webbing was formed between the digits to increase swimming ability. Aquans have been known to have reached depths of 1 kilometre without ill effects. When on the surface the Aquan's gill closes and the trachea valve opens to allow air to enter the lungs. The Aquans, while extremely graceful in the water are rendered relatively clumsy, as a result of the limb alterations, on land. APPEARANCE Aquans are similar in appearance to surface-dwelling Scanians apart from the obvious physical differences; the blow hole at the rear of the neck and the elongated and webbed fingers and toes. To prevent blockage of the blow hole while swimming all Aquans, male and female, wear their hair either short, tied up or in a mohawk crest. They are also less modest than Scanians, frequently only wearing sufficient clothes to cover the genitalia slits. REPRODUCTION The genetic adaptions recorded above were permanently grafted into the Scanian male's DNA. While inter-breeding between unadapted humans and Scanians or Aquans is possible, Scanian/Aquan off-spring will only be born if the male partner is a Scanian or Aquan. Although the alterations are relatively stable in Scanian pairings there is a 1 in a million chance of a throwback to unaltered human and a 1 in 500,000 chance of a sport. Sports generally carry partial adaptions and are usually sterile. These odds increase to 1 in 100 chance of a throwback with a Scanian or Aquan male/unadapted female pairing. Scanian females have a gestation period of only seven months in comparison to the normal 9 month period. As a result there is a possibility that an unadapted male/Scanian female pairing will result in a miscarriage since such off-spring are always unadapted. While pairings between Scanians and unadapted humans do occur, it is extremely rare for pairings between Aquans and surface dwellers, even Scanians. This is believed to be because Aquans find air-breathers movement in the water extremely clumsy and ungraceful. That, coupled with the strong possibility of such a pairing resulting in unadapted or sport offspring makes such a relationship unlikely. PSYCHOLOGY Scanians believe that they were originally intended to be dispersed throughout the Imperium. As such, they claim as many volunteers as were willing for their offspring to be born with such alterations, were gathered from any healthy, suitable source. Any binding culture was probably non-existent at first. Then they believe the Long Night threatened or perhaps the project's funding was withdrawn. Although supplies and equipment were left behind, the lack of outside contact and the severe planetary conditions took its toll. Several segments of the colonists, in particular the more exotic or specialised adaptions, completely died out in the intermediate period of isolation. The Scanians would have probably remained as little more than warring tribes on the road to extinction were it not for the actions of the first Scanian prophet, Benjamin Scania. The remaining people were bound together as one people by his teachings. He taught the vital importance of tradition and the power of knowledge. From his teaching (known as the Path) the Scanians learned to work together as a people. To learn from the past to prepare for the future and to work towards the perfection of the Scanian ideal. Over the centuries his teachings have created an almost unique culture. The physical adaptions and the emphasis placed on logical deduction has resulted in a strong sense-oriented realism. They believe work must be carried out to the best of a person's ability and that good workmanship is a source of pleasure. This desire to give of their best may also be responsible for the almost total lack of dishonesty exhibited by this culture. They can be devious but not untruthful. This work ethic is even to be found in the Scanian recreation. Most spend their spare time as part of voluntary study groups examining and cross-examining various matters. The subject isn't important. That the conclusion reached is both original and/or logical is. Free expression is encouraged and nurtured among the children. The main Scanian holiday period is an extension of that - the Yarhei Kel'a (see below). There is very little sexual or class discrimination except in several small, variant sects to be found in Scanian communities. Males and females fight in the military together, can enter the Sanhedri or even become a member of the Twin Pillars. At present the position of Nasii is held by an Aquan female, Melissa Sa-Badasas. The distribution of wealth is fairly evenly spread with less than 1% classed as rich and only 2% considered poor. These are relative terms. The poor of Akiva would be classed as moderately well off on most other planets. Lack of wealth is not considered an obstacle to rising in Scanian society since intellect not money decides one's status. Scanians have strong privacy customs yet they rarely abuse them. The Scanians have a social distance of 2 metres in comparison to the Imperial average of 1. Aquans usually expect a minimum of 3 metres and Rabbani learn to cope with 1.5 metres. In addition Scanians are generally very modest and will generally wear clothes concealing most of the body. This varies though. Aquans will usually restrict clothing in their own colonies to sufficient to cover the genitals while Rabbani and merchantile Nehutei wear long robes with hoods that conceal their entire bodies. Despite this there are no modesty taboo's to be found within any mainstream Scanian settlement. Scanians have a strong belief in the value of sentient life and although believe that war may be necessary to protect their cultural existence all other killing, including execution for murder, is wrong. Scanians have a strong conservation outlook and, although not vegetarians by any means, will do everything they can to protect natural wildlife. It is believed that the blatant disregard for the local environment by Imperial mining consortium's was as much to blame for the second Scanian riots as the cruelty of Shaida Gakushuu. Scanian's strong work ethic reflects in their punctuality in meeting schedules but visitor's can be dismayed to discover this does not carry over into any other aspect of Scanian life. A Rabbani may turn up several hours late and a study group may work far into the night if they are discussing an involved concept. TRADITION Like the Vilani, the Scanians believe that tradition is the solid foundation upon which a stable society is built. Unlike the Vilani, Scanians believe in exploring the very limits of their imagination and talents. There is no aristocracy as such. Instead scholars, regardless of background, are revered and honoured. They study the past, but only so that they may better prepare for the future. Scanian scholars (Rab'an) may spend centuries dissecting and cross examining the most absurd of concepts, in the belief that should such a concept become reality the Scanian people will be prepared to cope with the consequences of its existence without delay. Scanians view it thus; The matter has already been discussed and the true path chosen. Why hesitate? The present, in the Scanian mind, is the time for action and preparation for tomorrow. This philosophy was clearly verified by the Psionic suppressions. Although the decisions reached may not always be the most racially beneficial in hind sight, the Scanian are always ready, and prepared, to react to any situation. To help with the cross-examination of decisions, all Scanian are expected to spend a period of 30 days every year (known as Yarhei Kel'a or "Time of testing") at a Scanian centre of Knowledge evaluating and cross-examining the thoughts of the local Rab'ani. This concept of cross-examination is known as Ve'lma Iphka which translates as "Perhaps the opposite holds true.." Probably the best known trait of the Scanian, as far as Imperial society is concerned, is the Ve'dtok or "Path of true seeing". Each Scanian is trained to constantly examine their surroundings so they can read the "truth" in all circumstances. Scanians have an exceptional capacity for logical deduction. This, coupled with their intense observational abilities (the magnifying abilities of the Scanian cornea membrane makes even the slightest movement noticeable) and knowledge of human and in some cases, alien body language, has given them the almost uncanny ability to read people like a book. There is an old smuggler's saying in Dagudashaag which states "There is only two things to fear in "The Business", an Anpanaarian judge or a Scanian customs officer". HISTORY The system was first surveyed by Vilani scouts in -4,000 but was left uncolonized until -2,053 when Solomani's attempted to set up a supply base on the surface. This proved unviable due to the excessive gravity and hostile environment and the base was moved to Abbayi in -1,994. Gaea (Akiva) was later colonized in -1,953 by a Solomani company dealing in genetic engineering. Several different approaches were apparently tried but only two have survived through to this day; Scanians and Aquans. These adaptions were carried out on the DNA of frozen embryo's and once that adaption proved stable the geneers altered that breed of DNA even further. The original base was sited at what is now known as Genesis, deep within the rock face. Whether any attempts were made to transport adapted humans to other sites is unknown. What is known is that in -1,793 the company left Gaea never to return. Behind them they left centuries of adapted people who did not wish to return to Sol. The company left behind a great deal of supplies, data tapes and equipment, possibly intending to return for them at a later date. Whatever the reason, they never returned and most of the equipment remained hidden within their underground base. Over the next two centuries, the various races of Gaea fell back to tech 2 and stabilised. Most of the more exotic adaptions died off or were killed by roaming bands of pirates who terrorised the various small communities. During this time the Aquans remained deep beneath the sea. A stable tech 1 society who completely avoided the more violent surface-dwellers. Over the years they became little more than a myth to the surface-dwellers. In -895 the various tribes were on a steep path to total extinction. There was no co-operation between the various tribes and everyone's hand was against everyone else's. It was in this year that Benjamin Ra'Scania was born. Legend has it that he was almost drowned as a child because of his small stature. Little is known of him prior to -862 when he stumbled upon the Geneer's supply base on Genesis. Others of his age would have wrecked the place looking for loot. Scania was of a totally different nature. He gathered together the data tapes and over the next few months figured out how to make them work. He was fascinated by all the knowledge even although he didn't, at that time, understand it. Over the next two years Scania gathered together supplies and gradually made Genesis a fit place to live. Then he withdrew to his data tapes and books. It was 22 years before he saw another human being. He immersed himself in the knowledge, learning how the technology worked, learning the history of his people for the first time. In -838 Scania reappeared. He taught the benefits of knowledge and learning at various local population centres but was invariably chased away. Despite this, over the next two years, he gathered together a small nucleus of disciples who he trained at Genesis. They were trained to study, to use the knowledge of the past to understand the future. It was in -831 that he made his first move. His disciples, armed with grav-belts and lasers, kidnapped the eldest son of each tribal leader and brought them to Genesis in secret. There they were brainwashed into learning. Next Scania informed the various tribal leaders that their sons were alive and that if they attended a meeting at Skal point they would be returned alive. The leaders came to do battle, proud and defiant. They left shattered men. The display of rebuilt technology cowered them into submission. They expected Scania to enslave them. Instead he asked only that each of their children be sent to Genesis for a period of three years at the end of which they would be returned. Slowly Gaean society was altered from within. As well as raising the technology he taught principles of civilisation. According to legend Scania is supposed to have lived until -698 . Before he died he called together his disciples, his sons of knowledge (Ba-Rab'i), and formed the first council of knowledge (Sanhedra). Rather than have his mortal remains become a religious symbol he ordered that his body be disposed of at sea without ceremony. It took a further 500 years before Gaea was fully united as a people. At the first united council held in -187 a holo-recording of Scania was played. In this recording, made in -837 , Scania expounded his doctrines and stated that the planet was to be renamed to record forever in the minds of the people this momentous occasion. To everyone's surprise he stated that under no circumstances was any planet or city to be named after him. Instead he suggested the name "Akiva" (the Spirit of Co-operation). Centres of learning were set up and the people, now a single racial type, studied the Path of Scania. In -79 the Sanhedra Ben Hakhamim hypothesised the existence of the Aquan race. In -54 they (correctly) predicted the location of their ocean settlements. In -53 Scanians ventured down to the Aquan settlement of Atlantis and made peaceful contact with their cousins. By -42 Aquans were represented on the Sanhedra Ben Hakhamim and in -11 Sameil Dachaaus, an Aquan representative on the Sanhedra was elected the first Aquan Nasii (twin ruler) and the Path of Scania was studied by every living sentient on the planet. Not blindly, learning by rote, but questioning and probing the very depths of available knowledge. It was in this period that R. Hasseim succeeded in proving the existence of psionic ability and testing, and consequently training, began in earnest. Contact with other sentient races had begun in -306 with passing Aslani traders. Scanians travelled with Aslani ships throughout the sector and ship's were purchased which were systematically dissected to better understand the principles. In -305 Akiva was "visited" by representatives of the Aakhri Empire based at Argi. THe Empire was a vilani settlement that had taken to enslaving the other local races which had been reduced to pre-space flight during the Long Night. An initial attempt to enslave various Scanian clans on Akiva failed. In part this was due to the intense gravity and extreme weather conditions, in part due to the difficulty in enslaving or controlling a sea-going community but mostly it was the Scanian mentality which refused to be enslaved. In - 286 The Aakhri gave up its futile attempts to enslave the Scanians and settled for a treaty allowing them to build a military base in the system sited on Ha-Nasi. When the Empire fell in 40 under the weight of its own caste-ridden structure the base reverted to the Scanian people. By 71 the Scanians had risen rapidly to tech level A and had a small fleet of jump-2 ship's. The first contact by the newly formed Third Imperium thought initially that they had found another major race until the Scanian council explained. To begin with the Scanians rejected offers of membership in the Imperium but decided to accept membership in 75 when it became plain that the Imperium was willing to move in force on non-aligned worlds. Thus Akiva escaped the worst of the Vilani Pacification Campaign and was able to begin seeding colonies of Scanians throughout the Sector. In most cases, the Scanians were willing to share their settlements with others and only in cases such as Gateway/Argi (1331) where the environment was suitable for Scanian occupation but hostile to unadapted races were full colonies created. In 235 Scanians discovered several major breakthrough's in psionic testing and training and this knowledge was exported throughout the Core. Scanian psionic teachers were to be found in almost every major psionic institute in civilised space. The Study supported psionic training extremely well. In 480 Zhodani diplomats were invited to Akiva to expound on their psionic training. This cemented a strong bond with the Zhodani consulate which continued right up to the Crisis of 799 . In 659 a newly elected Rabban named Halc Shagraa suggested the possibility of a psionic suppression by the Imperium. Although it was considered a very slight possibility at that time, it led to the seeding of major aspects of Scanian culture to the Scanian colonies. The system of Nehutei (Messenger/Traders) was established so that each centre would be able to retain free lines of communication and to prevent any of the various colonies from falling away from the Study and Path due to ignorance. In 787 it became clear to the Sanhedra that R. Shagraa's hypothesis was about to become reality. Rather than abandon the psionic teachings that had become so much a part of the Scanian way they elected to fight. The scattering of Scanian settlements were accelerated and all such settlements were instructed to put aside psionic training so that they would not become targets of repression. Links with the Zhodani Consulate were strengthened. Although they were prepared for war they did not expect the Imperium to strike so hard. The Imperium on the other hand was determined to decimate the Scanian Institute. In 800 Imperial forces took Akiva and successfully held it for 28 days but the combined problems of high gravity and the Sanheichiir (Scanian psionic commando's) attacks forced the troops to return to a high orbit siege. Even there the Imperial fleet were not safe from attack. True, no ship could leave port safely and the Scanian planetary defenses were limited but shuttles full of Sanheichiir were teleporting onboard the battle cruisers and had successfully taken six out of commission. Eventually, on instructions from Capital the fleet settled in for a total siege. This lasted for 22 years until the Scanian forces were sufficiently weak to be no longer able to prevent another invasion. Akiva was totally decimated. Troops killed thousands of known psionic's over the next six month period. A holo-video of the Empress Paula II was placed in the Shrine of Creation at Genesis against the cultural belief's of the people. This led to the first riots in 824 in which the Governor Riium was assassinated. The Imperium replied by promoting Riium's aide to Governor and granting him a free hand. Governor Shaida Gakushuu, known in Scanian history as "The Butcher" celebrated his new fortune by burning the University city of Gamala to the ground with all inhabitants inside. 4 million people were believed killed. Next he authorised the slaughter of every Rabban and their family on planet. Over the next 6 months it is believed that a further 12.5 million people died as a result of his acts. Other Imperial's were sickened by his cruelty and by his sadistic banquets of death. Report after report were sent to Capital but they were apparently ignored for 15 months. Instead Imperial mining interests entered the system and began to use Scanian slave labour to strip-mine Akiva. On 132-825 The Butcher was assassinated by Sanheichiir as he took part in another of his infamous banquets. His body was internally exploded by several top telekenetics who had survived the earlier persecutions. This was the signal to start the rebellion. The Imperial's fled from the naked terror of a race gutted by torture and injustice. Once more the Imperial's retreated to their Naval base on Ha-Nasi and awaited orders. On 305-826 a meeting was held at Rehin port on Rachel between the Sanhedra Ben Hakhamim and the Imperial forces. Due to the direct intervention of the Sector Duke, Davin Viisarikaa a compromise was agreed. This agreement placed the Akiva system under martial law and restricted traffic entering or leaving the system to Imperial ships and Imperial citizens. Akiva was posted as a red zone but it placed Akiva, Yosua and Rachel back into Scanian hands. The agreement stated further that the practice of psionics must cease immediately and a Governor would be based at Genesis to oversee the Scanian government. It was a "marriage of convenience". Both sides knew it and agreed to it. Imperial interests were allowed to return to Akiva but only on the understanding that a fair price would be paid to the Scanians and that a more ecologically sound method of extraction would be used. Akiva was apparently fully isolated. In 854 Ba'ko-ba started experiencing extreme solar activity which completely messed up sensors trying to track ship activity but ground forces on Akiva claimed nothing unusual was occurring. In reality the Scanians were using the cyclic flare activity to cover the coming and going of a secret merchant fleet which was trading Scanian minerals for technology. At the same time, Nehutei were using the situation to keep information flowing throughout the Scanian colonies. How the Scanians managed to amass such a large merchant fleet and how they managed to keep it completely secret from Imperial forces for over a hundred years is unknown. what is known is that Twin Lines, using unadapted Scanians, successfully negotiated several supply contracts, including the supply contract to and from Akiva. On Akiva the Scanians successfully turned from psionics, totally eradicating it from the Path and Study. In 1021 Akiva successfully negotiated for readmission into the Imperium. This attempt was successful mainly because of Duke Viisarikaa's tireless efforts petitioning the Moot on their behalf. It is said that the Scanians never forget a debt, their loyalty has been to the Viisarikaa family ever since. Akiva still retained an Imperial Governor and the Naval base at Ha-Nasi would remain but Akiva could freely trade with the outside world. At the Liberation ceremony it was revealed that Twin Lines were Scanian owned. The new Governor is believed to have immediately asked for the seclusion policy to be re-instated. Akiva successfully maintained its independence. At the time of the Second Survey Akiva was given the UPP A98A859-D but as a silent protest the Sanhedra Ben Hakhamim demanded, and got, the Government code changed to 6 - A captive government. In 1115 representatives petitioned Emperor Stephon for full rights. After examining the facts, this was agreed and a ten year withdrawal period was agreed to allow Imperial forces and mining interests to leave. This was acceptable to the Scanian people and power was slowly handed back to the planet. After the Emperor's assassination, the Scanians were among the first of the planets to back Karyn's stand. HOMEWORLD AKIVA 0935 A98A869-D N Ri Wa 1105 Im A2 V G8 D Primary: Binary. Major- Kokhba, spectral class A2 V, mass 2.76, luminosity 2.648. Companion (close)- Ba'ko-ba, spectral class G8 D, mass 0.63, luminosity 0.09. Akiva: Mean orbital radius 10 AU. Period 17.17 Std Years/6,273.2 Std Days. Diameter 13,984 Km. Mass 2.278 terra. Heavy core, density 1.60. Mean surface gravity 1.79g. Rotation period 33h 23m 18s. Axial inclination 53o 12' 25". Energy absorption 0.619. Satellites: Two. Yosua, orbit 30, 4940km; Rachel, orbit 39, 1560km. Surface atmospheric pressure 1.90. Composition oxygen-nitrogen mix. Hydrographic percentage 97%. Mean surface temperature -2.47oc. Native life present, non-sentient. Total system population 187.35 million. Primary cities : orbital - Ha-Nasi.. 1.25 million, Starport A, N; Yosua.. 2.3 million, Starport C; Rachel.. 5.8 million, Starport B; Ma'Dakt orbital.. 0.34 million, Starport A. Ground - Genesis.. 102 million, Starport A; Gamala.. 35 million, Starport B; Vedo'kr.. 10.5 million, Spaceport F; Atlantis.. 21 million, Spaceport F; Lyonesse.. 4.5 million, Spaceport Y; Mu.. 2.5 million, Spaceport Y. World Government is under Imperial martial law, local affairs are dealt with by a Feudal technocracy - (see Scanian Culture). Much of the bureaucracy is run by the Bwap colony at Tree. Social outlook: Progressive, advancing, competitive, peaceable, discordant, friendly. Law profile (Scanian - undivided), (Imperial - personal). 9-A6B69. Religious profile - 8B45B6-A. POPULATION BREAKDOWN: 68% Humaniti, Scanian. 27% Humaniti, Aquans. 4% Bwaps. 1% Humaniti, mixed, Imperial. STARPORT PROCEDURE A visit to an Akivan port can be an experience never to be forgotten, particularly if your cargo is not totally legal or your paperwork is not completely satisfactory. Scanian officials are extremely thorough in their examination and the Bwap obsession with the proper order of paperwork can be extremely frustrating. Landing Pattern - Ship's arriving in system must first wait at high orbit (900 km) until they receive clearance to proceed insystem. This may take up to 30 minutes before they are instructed to either dock at Ma'Dakt Orbital or if a planetary landing is desired to proceed to low orbit (180 km) and await a window and landing berth location. Once landed, the ship remains in quarantine until its received Inward Clearance by the Port Authorities. Usually ship's can expect to wait no longer than 30 minutes before inspection. The Clearance party consists of a Port warden, health officer, customs official, immigration official (generally a Bwap), port engineer and their subordinates. Given the high value Scanians place on honesty any attempt to bribe an official will be dealt with very severely. The best advice is keep your nose clean and play the game. Scanian officials will be totally impartial and extremely efficient. Starport Facilities - Akiva lacks any extrality. Scanian laws are in force throughout the system. A minimum of 50 Berths and runways are available on all planetary ports. Ma'Dkat has 120 berths. Traffic is currently 112% so expect delays in being assigned a berth. Starship and spaceship construction, maintenance and repair facilities are available and are extremely efficient. INDISS has rated Akivan port facilities a full 4 star rating. Search and rescue facilities cover the entire system and are believed to be amongst the most advanced and effective in the Sector. Full starship facilities and amenities are available. Although free unrefined fuel is available from the sea the excessive mineral concentrate may damage the ship's purifiers. Port Costs - Refined Fuel 300 cr. Unrefined Fuel (with minerals extracted) 50 cr. Berthing Costs 125 cr. for the first 6 days, 150 cr. per additional day. Warehousing Costs 15 cr. per tonne per week. Security Costs 50 cr. flat tax per week. Shuttle fees - Cargo 8 cr. per tonne, Passengers 50 cr. Portside Facilities - All ports boast TAS facilities and Traveller mission Hostels. Despite the lack of extrality most pleasures and entertainments are available except blood sports and illegal drugs. It can truly be said that Akiva lacks a black market. Crime is extremely rare and dealt with extremely harshly by means of fines and indenture. The best lodging is to be had at the Makhiir-Hilton's which rate 5 stars though most crews prefer to spend their stay at either the Devil's Bowl or Tetrachyal Inn's (3 stars each). Security is provided by Scanian police who are equipped with tasers. Undersea Monorail's connect each city and port with each other and the cost of a week's unlimited travel is a mere 50 credits. Scanians are famous for their food. expect to pay between 5 to 15 cr. per meal. Speciality of Akiva has to be Zhoam Blue plate with Bawyati kebabs and Haurm garnish. Expect to pay about 35 cr. per person though. Try the Tr'akhi wine at 45 cr. per bottle. Argian bhair is available in most localities for 3 cr. a glass. A VISITOR'S GUIDE Exo's - Due to the extreme cold and gravity most visitor's find it necessary to wear Environment suits during their stay. These suits increase body temperature to species normal while giving support against the effects of gravity and water. These suits, known as Exo's can be hired from the starport or from your hotel. Cost is generally about 3 cr, per day. Skal Point - A land of force and grandeur. Feel the pure power of nature as the 30 metre high waves crash against the thousands of dwellings clinging to the sheer cliff-face of the island pinnacles. A common sport at Skal is Wave Riding. This sport consists of surfing on top of these gigantic waves in 2 metre length fragile self-righting trimarans, using only the twin internal rudders to avoid crashing into the rocks surrounding the islands. Be warned, the islanders have a natural skill and it is not as easy as they make it seem. Thousands of visitors each year suffer severe injuries trying out this sport. The buildings of Skal, like many buildings on Akiva are ancient. Many date back to the constitution. On Skal they are formed of Ironite clay sealed with Sketra to form a hard, strong resin that is totally waterproof. The buildings are layered onto the cliffs and their rainbow colouring is due to the effect of centuries of sea, wind and smoke. Places to visit on Skal - Barnacle Inn. Experience the raw joy of the environment at sea level. Enjoy true Scanian cuisine at its best. Scanian cooking is renowned throughout the Imperium. Only on Akiva are all the famous spices and minerals freshly available. Try Zhoam Steaks with a fresh Sketra salad. Immortality Bay. Where the Zhoam come to die. Zhoam are 12 metre long preditory shark-like creatures that have earned themselves the nickname of Coven Fish due to their schools always consisting of 13 adults. Zhoam are extremely vicious creatures, killing other vertibrates over twice their size. Those not culled by the Scanians as food live for a life span of 25 cycles. When they reach that age they head for Immortality bay where they ground themselves in their thousands on the beach. They then lay their eggs and die. The bones of the Zhoam contain an extremely powerful enzyme which is only released as the bones start to decay. This enzyme seeps into the sand and activate the newly hatched worm-like zhoam. They then undergo an almost immediate transformation doubling in body weight in minutes. These then escape into the sea and slowly over the next two months alter into miniature Zhoam. Scientists have discovered that the Zhoam enzyme is an extremely powerful growth agent and can be used to increase animal growth to the species maximum. Unfortunately this enzyme is only really powerful in naturally dying zhoam and the Scanian Government has refused exploitation of the Bay's reserve on the grounds that exploitation may lead to the eventual extinction of the species. Attempts to try and catch live zhoam to breed has proved totally unsuccessful. It has been estimated that over 12 billion zhoam have died on Immortality bay.. Genesis - Home of the Scanian Culture. Most of the city is situated beneath the ground leaving the surface an island paradise. Places to visit include the Sanhedra and a Yarhei Kel'a study period. Visit the shrine where the first Scanians were genetically created. At the Butcher's Folly see holo-tapes of the Butcher's famous orgies and death feasts and see the original holo of Empiress Paula II which sparked the bloody rebellion. The entire city is heated by an extensive network of hot underground springs. These bubble to the surface at Hela and its claimed that the mineral's diluted within have a benevolent effect on a person's health. Visit the Bwap colony at Tree. These magnificant tree dwellings have been crafted out of ceramics to create an identical haven to Marhaban with a floating landscape and populated with animal species from Marhaban itself. Gamala - Scanian university city totally devoted to learning and study. The original city was destroyed by the Butcher. The current city is a majestic paradise of tall ceramic spires and crystal buildings that crowd the existing land space of the Gamala archepelago and the surrounding bays. The lagoons are totally safe due to the giant tidal ducks that surround the islands turning the constant waves into electricity. Gamala is famous not so much for its islands as for its house boat population. Over 75% of Gamala's population live on the sea. Many live their entire lives on these boats. Scanian house boats are designed on a trimaran design with self-righting cabin roofs. They naturally link together to form massive islands of several acres. The roofspace is considered free market spaces and entire businesses are based there. Possibly the most valuable souvenir to take back from your visit to Gamala is a copy of the teachings and a mooring post hand carved by Scanian craftsmen. Places to visit - The Bay of Paryala. A year round wine festival where everyone must be masked and any non-criminal behaviour is acceptable. For those without sexual codes a visit the Barge of pleasure is a must. The Batalu Sagasso is a gigantic forest of Halacuo fern, home of the only non-aquatic life on Akiva, The Bawyati. The Bawyati are a type of insect with triple 3cm wings that live on the fern. The Bawyati life cycle is of considerable interest since they begin life as kril feeding on the carcasses of their parents. Growing and undergoing four molts the creatures crawl out of the seaweed and change into grubs. These grubs are the favorite food, not just of Scanian chef's, but also of the bhari snail and the 85 metre long grag fish. Almost 80% of the grubs fail to survive this period of their existance. After 3 months they crawl up to the underside of the fern and enter the chrysalis stage. This lasts for 300 days, and when they emerge they have changed into flying Bawyati, where upon they live on the wing for a period of three months, mate and land to lay their eggs amidst the seaweed. Due to their lack of legs they are unable to take off and drown, thereby providing food for their hatching offspring. Atlantis - First city of the Aquans. Atlantis is located at a depth of 600 metres and consists of thousands of circular homes surrounded by forest. Most Aquan homes follow a certain pattern; several circular 3 metre high walls without a roof which forms the main living area of the family, with deep caves carved underneath which are the main sleeping quarters. Places to visit include the Union parks where vast plantations of Haurm tree are grown. These parks are used by courting couples and many Aqua-villes have Haurm planted around the sleeping caves to encourage a romantic mood. The Golden Spire is the cultural centre of Atlantis and is the Governmental home "under the sea". The Ghari reservation on the outskirts is the most famous aquatic zoological reserve in the Imperium and several species, now extinct in their home worlds, are to be found in the park. Visitors to any aquan city can elect to stay at special hotels set aside for oxygen breathers or experience sleeping underwater at an Aquan Inn. All visitors are fully trained to use rebreathing equipment before departing the mono-terminal and are recommended to hire an Aquan guide for the duration of their stay. TIPPING - Not expected but a flat 5 cr. tip will encourage continued good service. Remember, do not ask a Scanian to help you obtain illegal goods. Dishonesty is totally against their principles and they will feel no hesitation in turning you in to the local authorities. LANGUAGES - G"heim, a descendent of Hebrew spoken by almost all Scanians, Galanglic, Meduu-Galaach and Aarani. AKIVA: Medical Procedures Traveller's to Akiva/Argi should be aware that prolonged exposure to the high gravity environment can cause severe muscular and cardiovascular strain, and increase the risk and severity of accidents. Although gravity-compensating exosuits are available many find these bulky and restrictive, and prefer to experience Akiva's environment "at first hand". If you intend to do this, we advise that you consult your general practitioner prior to departure for a full medical check up - a high gravity acclimatisation course, consisting of a regimen of physical exercise in gradually increased gravity, and lasting some two or three weeks, is also recommended. Many starlines operating services to Akiva offer such courses. Once on Akiva, hire a wrist biomonitor, which continuously checks the condition of your cardiovascular system. "Booster" drugs to lessen fatigue are available on Akiva. Although legal, we suggest that they only be taken under strict medical supervision, as temporary loss of co-ordination can result in certain individuals. Following these few, simple measures will help make your stay on Akiva a safe and pleasant one. Dr. Gerard deChantuille Surgeon-General, Imperial Ministry of Health, Medurma To avoid injury during physical exertion on Akiva Routine, High-G Environ, INT (Fateful) Referee: Exertion includes such things as running, hand combat, lifting loads in excess of STR x 1 and other physical activities. REFEREE'S ONLY 1. The Scanians have not rejected psionics. In 799 a second Psionics Institute was established at Abbayi. The Scanian colony there is extremely small and new trainee's arrived dressed in the dark cloaks of the Nehutei and trained psionics left in their place so the population at Ma'kot remained stable. Only Rabban who had achieved the rank of Sanhedra Rabbai were tested and only those who would not be missed were sent. In addition the Scanians have a large population of non-adapted followers that the Imperial's seem to forget are totally Scanian in mind and ideal. Once the Centre was established, training of the Sanheichiir (Little Knives of the Mind) resumed in earnest. Each Scanian Sanhedra tests for psionic potential and those found trustworthy are sent to the Centre for further testing. In addition, selective breeding programs at several off-planet colonies have built up a sizable army of Sanheichiir ready to fight. 2. The reason the Imperial Navy never caught on to the Twin Line merchant fleet's coming and going's is the fact that each ship is secretly equipped with a black globe. The technology was "bought" from Medurman naval forces and duplicated on Akiva. There were originally ten ship's so equipped, serviced by a single Medurman engineer. When he died the Scanians kept the devices as well maintained as possible but currently only 3 are in full working order with another 2 working occasionally. Akiva is currently petitioning Karyn for a crew to repair the black globes. 3. Karyn has been informed of the existence of the black globe equipped ships and that Sanheichiir troops exist. She does not know where the Institute is hidden though a select group of 4 Scanian Sanheichiir have been sent as a personal bodyguard. This action didn't go down well with Karyn's personal guard, Dunbar's Dragon's. This, coupled with Karyn's own prejudice against psionics has resulted in the Sanheichiir being kept at a distance. This alienation has resulted in the Scanians going about their appointed task in a rather unorthodox manner. Karl Ragoul, an unadapted Scanian has even formed close bonds with several Alikasch street gangs. In particular the Eihkiylreakhu gang are in very close contact with Karl and act as his eyes and ears on Medurma. Karyn has appointed Carl Tarrant as liaison with the Scanian Government at this point in time. SCANIAN CULTURE Scanians believe in the acquisition of knowledge as the only true aristocracy. Scholars are respected above all and a broad knowledge is respected most of all. Knowledge of the Teachings of Scania are not a prime requisite and, while the majority does believe in a divine creator, belief is not a prime requirement of their culture. They are not really a religion so much as a way of life. The Scanian Government consists of people participation at all levels. at the Top is the Twin Pillars or rulers; the Nasii (Military and Governmental ruler) who is chosen by election of the populous from the Sanhedra Ben Hakhamim (Council of Scholars), and the Avi'Di (Law Giver) chosen by the Sanhedra Ben Hakhamim from the people. Their advisors are the Sanhedra Ben Hakhamim, who are made up of the scholars who have proven their mental ability in the testing, and the Savo'raim (Scholars of the Path, the "high priests" of Scanian teaching). Beneath them are a massive bureaucracy which runs the world. The military consists of a conscripted force known as the Purifiers and a paramilitary segment known as the Regulators . Advising the Avi'di on legal matters and acting as a court of appeal is the Sanhedra Ket'ana which consists of 23 Judges. The local police force are known as Gatekeepers and legal matters are dealt with by three separate and distinct legal courts known as Gates . The Gate Bakamaa deals with all monetary matters, The Gate Bah'ezi deals with contract law including marriage contracts. The Gate Babha'ti deals with governmental law. Criminal law is dealt with by the Court of judgement which consists of trial by three judges. In minor matters a person can elect to have his case heard by Hedyo't . This consists of any three Scanians who are totally impartial and any judgement reached is considered legal. Appeal is to the Court of judgement in all cases where the decision of the Hedyo't is not considered satisfactory and the complainant must pay the full legal costs in such a case. Since a single case can easily run into several thousand credits even for a simple legal matter, the decision of the Hedyo't is generally adhered to. Marriage is considered a legal agreement and a contract must be made prior to pairing, laying down the terms and conditions of the marriage and the conditions of divorce. Before divorce can be granted the exact sum in hard cash must be presented to the other partner. This tradition even extends to a one night stand and standard contracts are available at all hotels. Every Scanian, whether genetically pure or not, is entitled to a 30 day period known as Yarhei Kel'a when they attend the local Sanhedra and debate with the gathered Rabbani. This policy of cross-examination extends to all aspects of Scanian life and Government officials and judges frequently face cross-examination of their decisions by mere members of the public. It should be noted that the Ve'lma Iphka must be original and show logic or the interrupter may find themselves in jail for "Ignorant or abusive interruption". CHARACTER GENERATION (By Adie Stewart) Introduction What follows is a set of role playing notes for the Scanians and the Aquans. It consists of three main parts: a recap of the physiological details of both races, a guide to their psychology, and notes covering character generation. Finally there are comments on how to play the races. Note that the term Akivan is often used to describe the races. Referees and Players should be familiar with the race before playing them. Scanian Physiology Scanians are physically similar to other Humans, although there are a number of changes. The skin excretes a microthin layer of oil that prevents it from becoming waterlogged. Subcutaneous fat and an excellent circulatory system allow Scanians to withstand temperatures from -5xc to +30xc. They are naturally bouyant, and normally they won't sink. Males (like females) float face upwards. The eyes are covered by a membrane, a 'third eyelid' that protects against the sunlight and the high salinity of Akiva's oceans. The membrane within the ear protects against high pressures but renders Scanians hard of hearing in deep water or on worlds with an atmospheric pressure of two atm or more. The nose contains a membrane that is only permeable to gases. Aquan Physiology Aquans are closely related to Scanians and exhibit the same modifications (see above). They extract oxygen from water via their gill. While on land Aquans breathe using their lungs, but most profess to finding air bitter tasting and thin, and a few individuals are unable to breathe atmospheric oxygen at all. If the gills aren't kept damp they become swollen and painful. Aquans lack vocal chords and cannot speak. They communicate via touch, sign language and writing, which can only be understood by another Aquan or someone with a Linguistics skill of Aquan-1 or better. To overcome difficulties many Aquans carry a keyboard translator. The device has a speech synthesis unit, and is designed to speak a pre-programmed word or phrase at the press of a button. Their fingers are much longer than those of normal Humans, and are joined by a loose web. While it significantly aids swimming it can be an inconvenience when using objects. Some Aquans remove the skin from between their index finger and their middle finger to make using tools and weapons easier. Male Aquans are able to retract their genitalia to aid streamlining while swimming. Psychology Almost all Akivans follow the teachings of the prophet Benjamin R'Scania, which are collectively known as The Path. This encourages people to work to the best of their abilities for the benefit of all. Dishonesty (which includes criminal acts such as theft) is regarded as an illness of the mind, and lying (even to protect the feelings) is anathema. Wealth for its own sake is unimportant: money is a means to an end, and that end is usually personal comfort. Each person's idea of comfort varies considerably, and Akivan society tends to be stratified into groups with similar tastes. Income tends to be invested or rapidly spent. Charity is important, and if a family member or friend suffers a misfortune they will be taken in and cared for. In a Scanian community PC's will find that EDU replaces Social Standing in all matters. Physical violence is distained. It is seen as a last resort, and even then only minimal force is used. Those Scanians who show a tendency towards violence are usually conscripted into the Akivan military, the Purifiers. They work in conjunction with the paramilitary arm of the government, a force called the Regulators. Scanians are not stupid, however, and will act as necessary if they are placed in danger. Not all Akivans fit the mould. Although most follow the principles of The Path a few have greater ambitions. They tend to enter politics, the media, corporations or the performing arts. A very few become wanderers, travelling among the stars. ---------- Characters ---------- Homeworld: The homeworld of the Scanians and Aquans is Akiva, a waterworld located on the spinward edge of Argi subsector in Dagudashaag sector. It has homeworld statistics of Starport A, Large World, Dense Atmosphere, Water World, Moderate Pop, High Laws, and Avg Stellar Technology. All characters originating on Akiva receive default skills of Computer-0, Gun Combat-0, Grav Vehicles-0 and High Gee Environ-0. High Gee Environ is a natural talent as opposed to a skill and does not confer knowledge of Energy or Laser weapons. All Scanians and Aquans are able to swim. Characteristics: Akiva is a high gravity world. Compared to other Humans native Akivans are far stronger and have greater powers of endurance. On the other hand they aren't as quick on their feet, and tend to move in a slow, measured way. Make no mistake, their hand to eye coordination is just as good, they are simply slower. Their characteristics are generated as follows. Strength 1D6+8 Average 9-A Maximum 15. Dexterity 2D6-2 Average 5 Maximum 15. Endurance 1D6+6 Average 9-A Maximum 15. Intelligence 2D6 Average 7 Maximum 15. Education 2D6 Average 7 Maximum 15. Social Status 2D6 Average 7 Maximum 15. The minimum score for initially generated Dexterity is one. Lifeforce and all other secondary characteristics are generated as normal. Aging is as normal human except that almost all Akivan's are allergic to anagathics. Careers: Although Akivans are diligent and hard working the military dislike admitting them because of their belief in The Path. Scanians suffer a DM of -2 when trying to enlist in the Imperial Navy, the Marines, the Army, the Wet Navy and the Air Force. Aquans suffer the same modifiers except for the Wet Navy, which they tend to do quite well in: they receive a DM of +1 for enlistment. Those wishing to become Pirates receive a DM of -4 on their enlistment rolls: if they succeed it shows insanity, they receive a DM of +1 on all rolls for position and promotions. No Scanian or Aquan is able to become a barbarian. All other careers remain the same. Psionics: Psionic potential for Scanian or Aquan characters is generated normally, and Training follows the procedures laid down in the Players' Manual. In the past Akiva had an Institute (and even a unit of Psionic Troops, the Sanheichiir), but it was closed down during the Psionic Suppressions. Role-Playing Notes: Play Akivans as gentle, friendly and irritatingly honest. Be prepared to argue a great deal and leap in to negotiate if the situation becomes dodgy. If there really is no hope then blast away with the rest of them. Observe the Path and always be ready with 'helpful' quotations that will prove 'inspirational' to the other characters. Never pull the punches when you express your opinion: this can lead to hours of fun as you tell the fat woman in the shop exactly what you think of her new dress. Akivans have been seen as sombre, gloomy types without a sense of humour. This isn't true. They are Human, and have the full range of Human feelings and emotions. Remember that Akivan officials are thorough, scrupulous and fulfill their obligations to the letter. It is close on impossible to corrupt or bribe a member of either race. They can be powerful allies or extremely dangerous enemies. But remember that Scanians and Aquans are fun. REFEREE'S ONLY: If the Referee decides to use Sanheichiir in his/her campaign it is recommended that they be NPC's. There are currently less than 300 in total and about half are low level psychics. Generation is as per the Player's Manual. Despite current folklore, only about 1% of the Scanian population are fully trained adepts able to instantly discern truth from body language. Most others have a +1 to discern truth due to being brought up in the way. Additional Edu-based skill levels may be granted at the referee's discression each year on a 10+ on 2d6 roll.