Difference between revisions of "Acheron"
| (14 intermediate revisions by 4 users not shown) | |||
| Line 5: | Line 5: | ||
| | | | ||
|type = Omnivore/gatherer | |type = Omnivore/gatherer | ||
| − | |status = Human | + | |status = Variant Human Race |
|terrain = Plains | |terrain = Plains | ||
|locomotion = Walker | |locomotion = Walker | ||
| Line 40: | Line 40: | ||
|TL = TL-7 | |TL = TL-7 | ||
}} | }} | ||
| − | The [[Acheron]] of {{WorldS|Nappa|Diaspora|0932}} are a [[Human | + | The [[Acheron]] of {{WorldS|Nappa|Diaspora|0932}} are a [[Variant Human Race]] with a [[humanoid]] appearance. They are technologically developing [[sophont]]s. |
== Description ([[Specifications]]) == | == Description ([[Specifications]]) == | ||
| − | The [[Acheron]] were genetically engineered during the period of the [[Interstellar Wars]] to exploit the mineral wealth of their homeworld. They are considered ugly by | + | The [[Acheron]] were genetically engineered during the period of the [[Interstellar Wars]] to exploit the mineral wealth of their homeworld. They are considered ugly by Human standards, but stronger, tougher and more resistant to high radiation levels. |
Acheron are distinguished further from baseline [[Humaniti]] by the nictating membranes on their eyes, retractable nose and mouth filters, and beefed-up circulatory and respiratory systems. | Acheron are distinguished further from baseline [[Humaniti]] by the nictating membranes on their eyes, retractable nose and mouth filters, and beefed-up circulatory and respiratory systems. | ||
| Line 63: | Line 63: | ||
* Bilateral symmetry (2-ial) | * Bilateral symmetry (2-ial) | ||
* Tetrapod (4-ped) | * Tetrapod (4-ped) | ||
| − | ** Two limbs used for manipulation "arms" | + | ** Two limbs used for manipulation, "arms" |
*** Former brachiator (still capable climber) | *** Former brachiator (still capable climber) | ||
| − | ** Two limbs used for locomotion (biped) "legs" | + | ** Two limbs used for locomotion (biped), "legs" |
* Body consists of three segments | * Body consists of three segments | ||
** Head with sensors and multiple-use orifice (consumption, communication, and respiration) | ** Head with sensors and multiple-use orifice (consumption, communication, and respiration) | ||
| Line 81: | Line 81: | ||
=== Ecosystem & Population (Ecology) === | === Ecosystem & Population (Ecology) === | ||
| − | '''Overview:''' | + | '''Human Overview:''' |
* Hyper-acclimitization: Known to quickly adapt to many different climates and environments. | * Hyper-acclimitization: Known to quickly adapt to many different climates and environments. | ||
* Requires shelter and clothing. | * Requires shelter and clothing. | ||
| Line 89: | Line 89: | ||
* Omnivore/gatherer | * Omnivore/gatherer | ||
** Homeotherm | ** Homeotherm | ||
| − | ** Sometimes called a "hunter-gatherer" due to many | + | ** Sometimes called a "hunter-gatherer" due to many Humans' penchant for pursuing animal sustenance. |
Acheron favour high-protein, high-energy, well-flavoured foods. Elaborate meals are consumed inside, while food eaten outside -- which must pass through a mouth filter -- is always liquefied. | Acheron favour high-protein, high-energy, well-flavoured foods. Elaborate meals are consumed inside, while food eaten outside -- which must pass through a mouth filter -- is always liquefied. | ||
| Line 105: | Line 105: | ||
Multiple births are common among Acheron, but this is offset by their high infant mortality rate. Adolescence is accelerated and aging sets in early, with lifespans being short. | Multiple births are common among Acheron, but this is offset by their high infant mortality rate. Adolescence is accelerated and aging sets in early, with lifespans being short. | ||
| − | ==Mentality== | + | == Mentality == |
Acheron are noted for their superstitious culture, and view the universe as a grim joke and full of malevolent forces. Hexes and defensive measures against same are an important part of their belief systems. Knowing that they will die young compared to most Humans, and with a high childhood mortality rate, they are known for being fatalistic. | Acheron are noted for their superstitious culture, and view the universe as a grim joke and full of malevolent forces. Hexes and defensive measures against same are an important part of their belief systems. Knowing that they will die young compared to most Humans, and with a high childhood mortality rate, they are known for being fatalistic. | ||
| + | |||
| + | Since being admired for looks or for a long, successful career are out of the question, what remains for the Acheron is short-term achievement. Most try very hard to be good at what they do. Their brief childhood means that they tend to be less well-educated than other Imperials, and their world has few prestigious or high-paying jobs. Aware of these handicaps, the Acherons tend to choose an occupation early and work hard at it; doing anything consistently and well is viewed as a victory over jinxes and misfortune. | ||
| + | |||
| + | == Culture == | ||
| + | Acherons are serially monogamous in their sexual relationships. Acheron law recognizes monogamous marriage, but divorce is very easy and a given adult might change partners several times. Acherons live in extended family groups, sometimes a small team of related women forming a group family, each bringing her partner and children to the household. Family groups are intended to help with the rearing of rapidly-aging children (Acheron adolescence is a trial for all involved) and provide general support to mothers -- especially since post-natal depression is very common in Acherons. | ||
| + | |||
| + | === Urbanization === | ||
| + | Acheron buildings are environmentally sealed, low-lying structures. They often incorporate wind farms or geothermal taps. This preference for natural energy followed their experience in the [[Long Night]], when the Acherons couldn't rely on high-technology solutions. Communities cluster around essentials like reservoirs and hydroponic farms, and tend to be close to mines, factories, and other places of work. | ||
== History & Background ([[Dossier]]) == | == History & Background ([[Dossier]]) == | ||
| − | This species originated on [[ | + | This species originated on [[Nappa (world)|Acheron]] -- Nappa -- as a [[geneered]] version of [[Humaniti]], a [[Variant Human Race]]. The Acheron-nu batch of geneered colonists was successful at tolerating the planet's environment. |
In [[-2202]] the first Acheron-nu individuals reached maturity. These colonists were trained by Terran scientists, who informed them of their special origins and purpose. Engineers, advisors, and counselors mentored them for a few generations, giving them medicine and supplies in return for metals. Then one day they flew off, never to return. | In [[-2202]] the first Acheron-nu individuals reached maturity. These colonists were trained by Terran scientists, who informed them of their special origins and purpose. Engineers, advisors, and counselors mentored them for a few generations, giving them medicine and supplies in return for metals. Then one day they flew off, never to return. | ||
| Line 115: | Line 123: | ||
In [[387]], merchants from a nearby world discovered the existence of the Acherons. The Acherons were willing to trade minerals for manufactured goods, as they had done centuries before. For their part, the offworlders were quick to recognize the opportunity for tremendous profit. They worked from the abandoned [[Second Imperium]] space station, which they expanded into an orbital port. In order to protect their advantage, they kept the very existence of the Acherons a secret. They also carefully avoided giving the Acherons any independent spaceflight capability. This situation lasted for centuries. | In [[387]], merchants from a nearby world discovered the existence of the Acherons. The Acherons were willing to trade minerals for manufactured goods, as they had done centuries before. For their part, the offworlders were quick to recognize the opportunity for tremendous profit. They worked from the abandoned [[Second Imperium]] space station, which they expanded into an orbital port. In order to protect their advantage, they kept the very existence of the Acherons a secret. They also carefully avoided giving the Acherons any independent spaceflight capability. This situation lasted for centuries. | ||
| − | In [[991]], an {{IISS}} ship crash-landed and brought its crew into direct contact with the Acherons. The Acherons were appalled to discover the degree to which they were being lied to and exploited, and decided to emancipate themselves. Somehow, they sneaked onto the highport, took control, and aligned their world with the Imperium. Acheron fighters clamored to serve the Emperor, and did so with such distinction that the [[Imperial Navy]] named an ''[[Azhanti High Lightning]]-class'' cruiser after them. | + | In [[991]], an {{IISS}} ship crash-landed and brought its crew into direct contact with the Acherons. The Acherons were appalled to discover the degree to which they were being lied to and exploited, and decided to emancipate themselves. Somehow, they sneaked onto the [[highport]], took control, and aligned their world with the Imperium. Acheron fighters clamored to serve the Emperor, and did so with such distinction that the [[Imperial Navy]] named an ''[[Lightning class Frontier Cruiser|Azhanti High Lightning]]-class'' cruiser after them. |
=== Linguistics === | === Linguistics === | ||
| − | The Acheron language is descended from the [[Anglic]] which served as one of the primary languages of the early Rule of Man. It is distantly related to | + | The Acheron language is descended from the [[Anglic]] which served as one of the primary languages of the early [[Rule of Man]]. It is distantly related to modern Galanglic, but centuries of separate development have made the two mutually unintelligible. Many Acherons do speak some Galanglic. |
| + | |||
| + | Acherons have a given name followed by a family name, inherited from the mother. | ||
| + | |||
| + | Given their cultural distaste for anything Solomani, many Acheron have begun to adopt [[Vilani]] names in preference to those of Anglic descent (or from other Terran languages). | ||
== [[Astrography]] == | == [[Astrography]] == | ||
Latest revision as of 18:48, 12 February 2026
| Acheron | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Base Information | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Classification | Omnivore/gatherer | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Status | Variant Human Race | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Locomotion | Walker | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Terrain | Plains | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Body Form | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Confluence | Humanoid | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Bio-Identenoid | Human | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Size | 1.6 meters | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Weight | 65 kg | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Culture | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Languages | Native Language, Anglic | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Social Structure | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Technological Epoch | TL:7-9 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Psionic potential | Standard | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Origin World | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Homeworld location | Nappa (Diaspora 0932) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| UWP | D696754-7
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Primary Star | F3 V | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Atmosphere | Standard (tainted) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Off-world presence | No | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Zoetic individuals | Yes | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Source | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Reference | Humaniti 20-23. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Canon | Yes | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Also see | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
The Acheron of Nappa (Diaspora 0932) are a Variant Human Race with a humanoid appearance. They are technologically developing sophonts.
Description (Specifications)[edit]
The Acheron were genetically engineered during the period of the Interstellar Wars to exploit the mineral wealth of their homeworld. They are considered ugly by Human standards, but stronger, tougher and more resistant to high radiation levels.
Acheron are distinguished further from baseline Humaniti by the nictating membranes on their eyes, retractable nose and mouth filters, and beefed-up circulatory and respiratory systems.
Climate & Ecotope (Environment)[edit]
This species holds the following environmental preferences:
- Terrestrial type of planet
- Cold climate
- Barren plains ecotope
- Standard gravity range
- Standard atmosphere with a taint
- Increased radiation hardiness
Anatomy & Physiology (Corporeality)[edit]
Sophontologists studying this species have discovered the following data.
Body Plan (Appearance)[edit]
- Humanoid
- Bilateral symmetry (2-ial)
- Tetrapod (4-ped)
- Two limbs used for manipulation, "arms"
- Former brachiator (still capable climber)
- Two limbs used for locomotion (biped), "legs"
- Two limbs used for manipulation, "arms"
- Body consists of three segments
- Head with sensors and multiple-use orifice (consumption, communication, and respiration)
- Torso with manipulatory limbs
- Abdomen with locomotor limbs
Biochemistry (Function)[edit]
Acheron have a conventional carbon-water based biochemistry hardened to survive in a high radiation, atmospherically tainted environment.
Respiration (Reaction)[edit]
Acheron use a conventional respiration cycle consisting of:
- Oxygen-nitrogen inhalant
- Carbon dioxide exhalant
- Taint filtering
Ecosystem & Population (Ecology)[edit]
Human Overview:
- Hyper-acclimitization: Known to quickly adapt to many different climates and environments.
- Requires shelter and clothing.
- Prefer to shelter in defensible dens protected from the elements.
Diet & Trophics (Consumption)[edit]
- Omnivore/gatherer
- Homeotherm
- Sometimes called a "hunter-gatherer" due to many Humans' penchant for pursuing animal sustenance.
Acheron favour high-protein, high-energy, well-flavoured foods. Elaborate meals are consumed inside, while food eaten outside -- which must pass through a mouth filter -- is always liquefied.
Gender & Sexuality (Reproduction)[edit]
Acheron have the following reproductive characteristics::
- Two genders (male & female)
- Mild sexual dimorphism
- (sexual reproduction)
- Reproduces through conjugal intercourse
- Varied mating systems (primarily monogamy)
- Viviparous birth
- (Iteroparous): Uses K-selection and have few offspring that require considerable amounts of time to raise to maturity.
Multiple births are common among Acheron, but this is offset by their high infant mortality rate. Adolescence is accelerated and aging sets in early, with lifespans being short.
Mentality[edit]
Acheron are noted for their superstitious culture, and view the universe as a grim joke and full of malevolent forces. Hexes and defensive measures against same are an important part of their belief systems. Knowing that they will die young compared to most Humans, and with a high childhood mortality rate, they are known for being fatalistic.
Since being admired for looks or for a long, successful career are out of the question, what remains for the Acheron is short-term achievement. Most try very hard to be good at what they do. Their brief childhood means that they tend to be less well-educated than other Imperials, and their world has few prestigious or high-paying jobs. Aware of these handicaps, the Acherons tend to choose an occupation early and work hard at it; doing anything consistently and well is viewed as a victory over jinxes and misfortune.
Culture[edit]
Acherons are serially monogamous in their sexual relationships. Acheron law recognizes monogamous marriage, but divorce is very easy and a given adult might change partners several times. Acherons live in extended family groups, sometimes a small team of related women forming a group family, each bringing her partner and children to the household. Family groups are intended to help with the rearing of rapidly-aging children (Acheron adolescence is a trial for all involved) and provide general support to mothers -- especially since post-natal depression is very common in Acherons.
Urbanization[edit]
Acheron buildings are environmentally sealed, low-lying structures. They often incorporate wind farms or geothermal taps. This preference for natural energy followed their experience in the Long Night, when the Acherons couldn't rely on high-technology solutions. Communities cluster around essentials like reservoirs and hydroponic farms, and tend to be close to mines, factories, and other places of work.
History & Background (Dossier)[edit]
This species originated on Acheron -- Nappa -- as a geneered version of Humaniti, a Variant Human Race. The Acheron-nu batch of geneered colonists was successful at tolerating the planet's environment.
In -2202 the first Acheron-nu individuals reached maturity. These colonists were trained by Terran scientists, who informed them of their special origins and purpose. Engineers, advisors, and counselors mentored them for a few generations, giving them medicine and supplies in return for metals. Then one day they flew off, never to return.
In 387, merchants from a nearby world discovered the existence of the Acherons. The Acherons were willing to trade minerals for manufactured goods, as they had done centuries before. For their part, the offworlders were quick to recognize the opportunity for tremendous profit. They worked from the abandoned Second Imperium space station, which they expanded into an orbital port. In order to protect their advantage, they kept the very existence of the Acherons a secret. They also carefully avoided giving the Acherons any independent spaceflight capability. This situation lasted for centuries.
In 991, an Imperial Interstellar Scout Service ship crash-landed and brought its crew into direct contact with the Acherons. The Acherons were appalled to discover the degree to which they were being lied to and exploited, and decided to emancipate themselves. Somehow, they sneaked onto the highport, took control, and aligned their world with the Imperium. Acheron fighters clamored to serve the Emperor, and did so with such distinction that the Imperial Navy named an Azhanti High Lightning-class cruiser after them.
Linguistics[edit]
The Acheron language is descended from the Anglic which served as one of the primary languages of the early Rule of Man. It is distantly related to modern Galanglic, but centuries of separate development have made the two mutually unintelligible. Many Acherons do speak some Galanglic.
Acherons have a given name followed by a family name, inherited from the mother.
Given their cultural distaste for anything Solomani, many Acheron have begun to adopt Vilani names in preference to those of Anglic descent (or from other Terran languages).
Astrography[edit]
This race is primarily located in the following areas:
Charted Space:
- Diaspora Sector
- Shumisdi Subsector
- They occupy a rimward world-state and few have left their homeworld.
- Shumisdi Subsector
Homeworld[edit]
The homeworld of this race is:
World Listing: 1105[edit]
Significant communities of this race are known to exist within the following systems and worlds:
References[edit]
- Loren Wiseman, Jon F. Zeigler. Humaniti (Steve Jackson Games, 2003), 20-23.
- Colin Dunn. Library Data (Mongoose Publishing, 2011), 2.