Difference between revisions of "Tajaran"

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{{toc_right}}<onlyinclude>The [[Tajaran]] (ᴛᴀʜ-jaw-run, plural ᴛᴀʜ-jaw-rah) are a feline humanoid race that possess cat-like features. The Tajaran hail from [[Ahdomai]], the smaller, tundrous but habitable one of two twin planets. They possess fur for the purpose of self-heating and feline attributes for stability in their environment.</onlyinclude>
{{wip
|assign = Lore Team}}
{{toc_right}}<onlyinclude>The [[Tajaran]] (ᴛᴀʜ-jaw-run, plural ᴛᴀʜ-jaw-rah) are a species of furred, feline beings. The Tajaran hail from Ahdomai, the smaller arctic world of two twin planets.</onlyinclude>


'''Additional Information:''' [[Ahdomai]], [[Tajaran Culture]]
= Mechanics =
* Tajara can speak a unique language - Siik’tajr. Use this in game by typing say :j


== Mechanics ==
* Tajara have claws, and unarmed damage done by them is applied as sharp.
* Tajaran can speak a unique language that incorporates large amounts of body language, including tail use. It cannot be used over the radios. Use this in game by typing '''say :j'''


* All Tajaran have claws, and will scratch with them instead of punching.
* Tajara have improved vision in low-light conditions.


* Tajaran can see much better in the dark than humans.
* Tajara are less vulnerable to cold, but more vulnerable to heat.


* Tajaran are less vulnerable to harm from cold due to their fur, but more vulnerable to harm from heat.
* Tajara are able to devour mice and other small animals with an aggressive grab.


* Tajaran are able to devour mice with an aggressive grab.
= The Tajaran and YOU =
Greetings, esteemed crewmember!


== Overview ==
In an effort to encourage inter-species cooperation and workplace efficiency, NanoTrasen has compiled a series of helpful guides on the various species that you may be working with!
=== Naming ===
In order to communicate with multi-species crews better, most Tajaran have taken arabic first and last names to allow for better communication. Most Tajaran clans and given names tend to have a distinct east asian slant to them as to begin- Due to their facial anatomy, sharp lip-based mora tend to be less present.


===Biology===
(NOTE: If you are a member of the species this guide pertains to, please give it to the nearest crewmember of another species)
The Tajaran are a species of omnivorous, bipedal mammals with features that strongly resemble Terran felines in structure. Their body is covered almost entirely with a thick fur coat, the only exceptions being the palms of their hands and the soles of their feet, directly around their various orifices, and their eyes. On many individuals the fur near their neck and head grows into a shaggy "mane", not unlike a lion or horse's mane, which is made of even tougher, wiry hairs. Tajaran fur colors tend towards monochrome, with the mane generally being significantly darker than the rest of the fur. Patterns of all types have been observed: flat, spots, stripes, and many variations in-between. Tajara males on average range between 145 cm and 185 cm in height and 55 kg and 90 kg in mass, while females on average range between 135 cm and 180 cm in height and 35 kg and 75 kg in mass.


The Tajaran have two fairly large and well-developed eyes set above a slightly elongated "muzzle". Their pupils are generally large, but can contract significantly faster than most other species. Their eyes also possess a refractive layer very similar to a tapetum lucidum which greatly enhances their night vision and causes their eyes to shine when illuminated in dim light. Tajaran teeth are sharp and needlelike in the front and slowly grow thicker towards the back. The closest analogous animal to their tooth structure would be a terran raccoon. On the top of their head Tajara possess two normally erect ears. Tajaran ears have a wide range of motion, and are capable of rotation up to ninety degrees and folding entirely back to the skull.  Because of the structure and wide range of motion, Tajara have a noticeably more fine range of hearing than other crew species.
This particular guide refers to the species known as the Tajaran (singular: Tajaran, plural: Tajara).


The Tajaran hands and feet both have five digits and are somewhat stubby and thick compared to human extremities. A set of retractable claws originate from the second knuckle are always visible and are always visible at least slightly from the tips of tajaran fingers and toes. Tajara are digitigrade, and most equipment that interacts with the feet requires modification to fit. All Tajaran also possess a flexible tail. This appendage is muscled and is capable of a exceedingly large range of movement.
== Tajaran Naming Schemes ==
Tajara utilize a naming scheme that produces relatively short given names and surnames. As their original names often prove impossible to pronounce for the average speaker, many Tajara adopt very rough approximations to allow for easier communication. Tajara populations typically originate from larger clans as opposed to smaller groups, leading to much of the population sharing the same surname. No doubt due to this curious cultural practice, a recent census concluded that the total number of surnames on Ahdomai numbers only in the thousands.


Tajaran have a notably longer sleep cycle than humans, the average wake period for a Tajara is between 36-48 hours with a subsequent 20-28 hours of sleep. This wake period is often punctuated by short (15-30 minute) naps.
Curiously enough, the first and last name can either be separated by a regular space or an apostrophe in its written form, depending on the clan.
Examples include: “Khar’Thron”, “Rakh’Khazan”, “Reshir Hadii”.


The tajaran body is generally lithe, slender, and extremely flexible. Sexual dimorphism, except for overall size, is low between males and females, the only real exception being the presence of mammary glands, which externalizes slightly while the mother is caring for her children. Internally their gastrological, cardiovascular, and lymphatic systems are eerily similar to terran species, leading a few scientists to speculate that the Tajaran may have originated from microbe cultures on meteors that brought life to the earth, with more radical individuals suggesting they had been influenced in their genetic development by outside forces.
== Tajaran Physiology ==
{| class="wikitable" style="float:right; margin-left:10px;"
|[[File:TajaraM.png|120px]]
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|<font size="2">A typical Tajaran</font>
|}
The Tajaran are a species of omnivorous, bipedal beings with features that bear a strong resemblance to terran felines (IE: the common house cat). The Tajaran body is covered almost entirely with a thick coat of fur, and many individuals develop a shaggy mane along their nape and scalp. Tajaran fur colors typically display minimal contrast with each other, and as a rule of thumb the mane is typically darker than the rest of the fur. Various colourations and patterns have been observed in Tajara populations ranging from flat, undifferentiated patterns to spots, stripes, and patches of varying colour. The adolescent Tajaran stands between 160cm (63in) to 190cm (75in) in height, and heights typically do not deviate outside of this given range.


All medical equipment aboard NanoTrasen vessels will be compatible with Tajaran biology with only minimal modifications.
Like many known bipedal humanoids, Tajara have a set of two relatively large eyes that provide them with a wide field of view and exceptional clarity at distances both long and short. Tajaran eyes - unlike humans - also possess a small reflective layer near the retina that helps reflect light and substantially improve night-time vision and awareness. Interestingly, studies have shown that Tajaran eyes are classically deuteranopic and are unable to tell between varying shades of red, green, and orange.


=== Behaviour ===
This trait is believed to have persisted in the Tajara population well into the 2470’s until the advent of genetic manipulation. Tajara possess two typically erect ears atop their head capable of distinguishing frequencies outside the range of normal human hearing. Tajaran ears display a wide range of motion and are capable of rotating up to ninety degrees and folding back flat against the skull. Because of the unique structure of Tajara ears and their ability to pick up on high-frequency sounds, it’s not advised to use ultrasonic equipment near your Tajaran coworkers, as it may induce migraines.
Tajaran have a strong tendency towards loyalty and cooperation from living in what was overall a collectivist society. Younger Tajaran tend to be significantly more forward and expressive than older adults as the world and education have expanded for most Tajaran - The current generational gap in education and so forth is fairly enormous. Overall, however, they have been observed to have as wide an emotional range as humans, by extensive neurological investigation, although some reports from dubious sources state otherwise. Stimuli may vary compared to humans.


It is advisable for staff to make use of this mindset. It is said that a Tajaran friend is a friend made for life in many circles. NanoTrasen does not openly advocate for non-human command staff, although often times workers from Ahdomai are enticed with the prospect of upward mobility, as it is not a full lie - there are no direct regulations that prevent this. However, such is heavily frowned on as a corporate liability and PR move.
Tajaran hands and feet feature five stubby digits that are thicker compared to the extremities of most other species. A set of partially retractable claws originate from the second knuckle and terminate at the tips of Tajaran fingers and toes. Tajara are digitigrade, and by extension most standard issue footwear is ill-fitting. As part of Nanotrasen’s line of mandatory introductory workplace seminars most Tajara have received instructions on how to modify on-station footwear to suit their needs.  


=== Clothing ===
All Tajara possess a flexible, prehensile tail. This appendage is muscled and is capable of an exceedingly large range of movement. For your personal safety, it is recommended you do not attempt to pet any of your Tajaran coworkers. All medical equipment aboard NanoTrasen vessels is compatible with Tajaran biology, and does not require modifications to accommodate them.
While uniform is an important part of employee unity, Tajaran are authorised to forgo the need of shoes and gloves in most cases, due to physiological differences. Sandals and Fingerless gloves are also acceptable alternatives for Tajaran crewmembers. Many ear mounted items also prove difficult, for reasons that should not need explanation. Tajaran should also be excused from duties which require contact with increased temperatures, due to an increased susceptibility from heat.


As Ahdomai is still a fairly arctic planet, most clothes are heavy and cloaks are common, and almost always split back, to allow for freedom of tail movement. Boots tend to be of an open-toe design. An excess of sashes/inserted waistcloth is used for decor purposes, particularly for formal events.
== The Siik'tajr Language ==
Siik'tajr gets its origins amongst the peasantry of Ahdomai, and was historically derided as being the “language of beggars”. Due to its simple yet precise grammar as well as its prevalence in the lower echelons of Tajara society, it quickly became the common tongue during a period of postwar economic fallout in the early 2430’s.


Layering tends to be almost universal in Tajaran fashion, no matter the clan or region. Aside from an underwear layer, usually consisting of tap pants along with some form of loose fitting undershirt for both male and females, most Tajaran clothing consists of some sort of scarf and jacket, usually a cloak for outdoor wear, and about 3 proper layers of clothing.
Siik’tajr is unfortunately impossible to utilize fluently for members of all other known species due to its incorporation of body language and its unique enunciation. One may note that Tajara commonly extend the consonant “R” when speaking, as proper enunciation of Galactic Common is often challenging for the native Tajaran.


Tail accessories tend to be used by individuals within a relationship, although this has changed since 50 years ago, and more tail decor is less of a taboo for just anyone to wear- Historically, it was generally a way of showing off courting favors, the less bound up version of wedding rings. Several sorts of ribbons bestowed by a significant other is considered as showing a status of being in a committed relationship, with marriage in Tajaran society primarily being reserved for legal bloodlines. Traditionally it was made of childhood garments offered to one's significant other, to signify giving away a piece of yourself and your past, although naturally in the modern day a Tajaran would buy such from clothing shops, the more elegant and intricate ones having price tags akin to the inflation of plain diamond rings in human society.
== The Tajaran Homeworld ==
The Tajaran hail from Ahdomai, the smaller of two planets in close orbit with one another. Ahdomai is a mineral rich world with temperatures commonly in the subarctic range. Covered with snow and glacial ice through most of the year, Ahdomia’s seasons are punctuated by frigid winters and mild summers.


=== Language ===
Recent studies have shown that the global average temperature is on the rise, and an alarming lack of biodiversity on Ahdomai compared to prior years. This sudden shift in temperatures and drop in biodiversity is due to a natural phenomenon involving Ahdomai’s coastal air currents and shifting habitats, and is wholly unrelated to NanoTrasen’s planet-wide industrial efforts.  
All alien races in active employment must have passed a prerequisite test of Common fluency to allow them to converse at a minimum level with other crewmembers, as required by HR due to corporate hiring standards. However, use of their own language has been shown to be used to communicate in private with others of their race. The primary language spoken is Siik'mas, with Siik'tajr a secondary.


Siik'mas was the traditionally employed tongue that is in common use in Ahdomai, enforced by the ruling class as a standard educated language 250 years ago for ease of beaurocracy and understanding. It is spoken by humans, although many inflections are almost impossible for a human mouth, and body language from the ears, eyes and tail, which are respectively less flexible, less marked, and somewhat nonexistant for humans to communicate with, causing occasional communicatory difficulties, with humans coming off as incredibly somber and stilted. Siik'mas tends to be spoken as a common language in the same way English is, although many regional pride groups developing in the post slavemaster era have attempted to once again re-establish old languages such as Nal'rasan, Devahhi, Ya'ssa and Resheha.
= A Brief History =
{| class="wikitable" style="float:right; margin-left:10px;"
|[[File:Ahdomai.png|120px]]
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|<font size="2">Ahdomai & Iluk</font>
|}For hundreds of years the Tajaran homeworld of Ahdomai was simultaneously united and oppressed by a ruling class called ‘The Overseers’, which united the disparate warring clans of Ahdomai in a series of violent, bloody conflicts known as the ‘Thirty Year March’ - a campaign which spanned 2042 to 2076. The Overseers ruled over the freshly conquered clans of Ahdomai with an iron fist, and even the slightest transgression earned a heavy-handed punishment. For instance, having the audacity to speak to an Overseer without first being spoken to was commonly met with beatings, or even outright execution.  


Siik'tajr was formerly an informal pseudo sign language employed by the lower class prior to the revolution as a variant of Siik'mas with old Nal'rasan equivalents(Spoken in the equatorial region of the trade hub of Nalyar, already a mixture of old languages) mixed in for the less educated at the time, being used originally in the cramped spaces when Siik'mas was introduced but still unused in family life, incorporating an incredible amount of tail movements, with many 'homophones' only barely distinguishable by either context or tail movement allowing for double communications during the rebellions, with very little verbal noise. Previously, it was used as It is incredibly unfriendly to non tailed speakers, almost unable to be replicated due to the factor of tails by human and skrell. Siik'tajr is an informal, lowbrow method of talking, common for the older members of the newly established clans who were heavily involved in the rebellion.
This united front -  brutal as it was - quickly saw the Tajara people from a medieval period into the beginnings of a vibrant pre-industrial age by 2120, thanks largely to the establishment of the ‘Alchemist’s Counsel’; a central body of science (which exists to this day) dedicated to prolonging the rule of the governing body. Goods, services and technology - largely to the benefit of The Overseers - proliferated as a result of this scientific union and the Tajaran people were brought into the information age by the early 2300’s.


Cyrillic/latin characters are the most common in use as a transcription of spoken Siik'tajr and Siik'mas, rather than the old Siik alphabet - Usage of such is usually restricted to 'official' documents within the old clans such as the Hadii and Alfarsi, and is generally frowned on due to its association with the old regime. It is still known within the aforementioned clans, but in active use it is linguistically dead.
Just prior to the launch of the first satellites to grace Ahdomai’s orbit in 2357, the NSV Alesko (a small exploratory expedition funded by NanoTrasen and headed by Dr. Saelnik) discovered Ahdomai and subsequently the Tajaran people. Dr. Saelnik’s team while apprehensive at first, quickly established first contact with ‘The Overseers’. Seen by the ruling elite as a potential tool to further their stranglehold on Ahdomai, the NSV Alesko was soon granted access to Ahdomai’s planetary surface.


Note that Tajaran commonly may extend the "R" sound of words, and all Tajaran generally adopt the third person in referring to themselves (Example: Rather than "I have completed my work", a Tajara would say "He has completed his work".) A Tajaran speaking in first person is considered to be giving a display of extreme trust, although due to the stresses of space, Tajaran can 'slip up' occasionally when speaking languages other than their own due to the examples of first person used around them from human crew.
Dr. Saelnik’s team (much to his chagrin) was forced to work directly with the Alchemist’s Council for the duration of their studies, and spent the better part of 2360-2390 studying Tajaran culture, language, governance and history in exchange for the NSV Alesko’s star charts. Word quickly spread of Dr. Saelnik’s findings, and by the time his research was completed more than a few corporations (including NanoTrasen) had already begun constructing dedicated outposts on Ahdomai’s barren twin. With the groundwork for diplomacy already laid out, much of NanoTrasen’s research efforts were directed toward mapping out Ahdomai’s vast reserves of mineral wealth with the intention of elevating the Tajaran people beyond the early space age.


== Background ==
Due to the gap of technological understanding between NanoTrasen and The Overseers, the ruling elite inadvertently caused the crash of a NT mining probe near a secure facility in 2395, leading to the escape of Szhara Tssal - one of Ahdomai’s many intellectual revolutionaries. In the interests of scientific pursuit, Tssal was granted asylum aboard the soon-to-depart NSV Alesko by Dr. Saelnik. During his time aboard the NSV Alesko, Tssal saw how a truly collaborative effort could improve everyone’s living conditions, and wrote a manuscript on his ideas which he aptly titled “Gazing Upwards”.
For hundreds of years, Ahdomai was simultaneously united and oppressed by a ruling class, referred to in the modern day by the epithet 'the Slavemasters', although in their day they went by terms that roughly translated to 'The Overseers'. The Overseers ruled with a heavy hand. Speaking when not spoken to first by an Overseer would be potentially punishable by severe beating or death. Nonetheless, their united front managed to bring an unpreceedented fruition of knowledge... For the ruling class. A relatively younger civilization than humanity, under various clans of Overseers, prior to human intervention, the first world era rulers had an approximate technological basis to the late nineties, with their communications equipment on par with the late 2000s, having had ample encouragement to cement their government with unified comms. Much of the methods used by the Slavemasters are lost, as during the revolution, taking down towers and sabotaging equipment they no longer had the blueprints for was strategically key to the rebellion. Meanwhile, the average Tajaran lived on par with the early 1900s in terms of tech for the lower/middle class, with illiteracy rates incredibly high.


50 years prior to present day, a small academic exploration funded by Sol Central, unaffiliated with megacorps, discovered Ahdomai and the Tajaran. The exploration team spent five years learning the Tajaran language and culture, taking samples, with their efforts guided towards a positive reaction by the Overseers, showing them the sort of peaceful society they had attempted to cultivate, trying to have them gloss over the class disparity and poverty. Eventually, the team returned to Earth with their findings.
Upon Tssal’s eventual return to Ahdomai in 2417, he began illicitly distributing his manuscript to any and all who would listen. Though quickly captured and promptly executed (one of those listening was also an Overseer spy) his ideas spread by word of mouth like wildfire, and his works are credited for sparking large-scale revolts across the globe in the following years. The response by The Overseers was swift, uncompromising and brutal, leaving the rebels to soon find themselves in a full blown war with their masters.


Soon after, multiple megacorporations took interest in Ahdomai: Much of the mineral, agricultural, and biological wealth of the planet remained untapped. "Aid" was quickly dispatched to Ahdomai in an attempt to gain the trust and cooperation of the indigenous species. Over the next ten years various megacorporations set up small laboratories and outposts to map Ahdomai out, geologically, biologically, economically.
Rival corporations with existing facilities on Ahdomai (interested in protecting their own assets and profit margins at the expense of all else) began to provide both sides of the conflict with monetary and military aid. NanoTrasen however (unlike its competitors) saw the merit in the aspirations of the rebel forces and quickly intervened in the conflict, supplying both training and armaments to bring what was now called the ‘Beggar’s War’ to a swift close by 2426.


Not long after the first laboratories had been set up, one of the intellectual revolutionaries of the oppressed majority escaped from confinement and found asylum off-planet on a NanoTrasen facility for five years. During his time in the facility, he saw how a truly collaborative effort could improve everyone's living conditions and wrote a manuscript on his ideas- "Gazing Upwards". While his original name was lost to time as he abandoned it in interests of not being targetted by Slavemasters for immediate censorship, his pen name was Harimah Ranjiira.  
A provisional government - with the support of NanoTrasen - was soon propped up by the rebels to oversee the postwar transition period, eventually leading to a decentralization of power and natural re-splintering of Tajara society along clan lines.  


After his return, Ranjiira began to distribute his manuscript, and the few literate Tajaran spread it's word by mouth like wildfire- Sparking revolts across the globe. The Slavemaster response was swift, uncompromising, and harsh. Soon the rebels found themselves in a full-blown war with their masters.
== Tajaran Culture ==
Tajara traditionally live in family communes, with multiple parents raising their children together. In the post-war era of Tajaran society, equality and unity are strongly recognized as key values. While Tajaran society still struggles to this day with managing the economic and cultural fallout from the dissolution of their primary governing body, the Tajaran have undergone what could only be called an artistic renaissance. Tajaran works - from tapestry, to portraits, to music - are readily available in almost all civilized corners of the known galaxy.  


The megacorporations with facilities on Ahdomai, interested in maintaining their investments and seeing a chance to profit, began to provide the two factions with monetary and military aid. The rebel forces, with their superior numbers and a technological boost from their supporters, began to overtake the Slavemaster forces. However, the final blow to the Slavemaster forces was the defection of the Hadii. The Hadii, seeing the cracks in their regime, turned coat and chose to support the rebels. While several rebel clans opposed this, the Hadii support network, records, and tactical knowledge were the final push that won the war for the rebellion.
Education on Ahdomai is heavily funded and overseen by the Alchemist’s Council, and is readily available to any and all native citizens of Ahdomai free of charge. However, as this institution - though largely reformed - is seen as an old vestige of prior rule, many Tajara remain skeptical of seeking out a formal education. In response, various corporations (including NanoTrasen) have stepped in to provide quality education for Tajaran adolescents with guaranteed future employment opportunities and job placements.  


A provisional government was propped up by the various megacorporations that supported the rebels, and over time Ahdomai naturally re-splintered with it's primary central government gone into Clan alliances. Medical corporations focused around the equatorial region, while mining and production corporations focused on land near the northern and southern areas. The largest corporate influence on Ahdomai is NanoTrasen, due to their affiliation with Ranjiira, who have supported the Hadii clan- Although they are by no means alone.  
Much of Ahdomai and the main Tajara clans still pay homage to the teachings of Tajr-kii S’randarr (roughly translated as “We who follow S’randarr”). These teachings pervade almost all aspects of modern Tajaran culture, from sun motifs in paintings to turns of phrase referring to “the Light”. After the fall of the Overseers, many Tajara have turned their backs on established religion, and some of the smaller clans within Tajaran society have turned to their own interpretations and practices of the original teachings.<br>
<font size="1">''(See Appendix A for a detailed rundown of existing Tajaran belief systems)''</font>


Aggressive mining operations have started on Ahdomai by the megacorps, and in a century it will be long on its way to mirroring Earth - A somewhat unpleasant prospect. Many prominent scientists, doctors, and a few political groups on both Earth and Ahdomai have protested this action.
== Present Day ==
Though relative newcomers to the galactic scene and lacking in any real substantive naval or economic capacity, the Tajaran have managed to remain on friendly terms with the HSA and on neutral terms with the various governments and species populating the galaxy. Tajaran society is still split along clan-lines with various governments dotting the surface of Ahdomai, many of which are uncomfortable with the idea of reunification largely due to the abuses suffered under the Overseers.<br>
<font size="1">''(See Appendix B for more information on the Human-Skrellian Alliance)''</font>


Despite still being fractured amongst clan lines, life on Ahdomai is relatively peaceful - the war weary populace being loathe to take part in conflict between other clans. Much of Ahdomai’s industry is reliant on foreign corporate infrastructure and investment due to its destruction during the Beggar’s War, with NanoTrasen holding the largest share of Ahdomai’s industrial economy.


=== Culture ===
With newfound access to the galaxy and readily available corporate placements, many Tajara find themselves - much like Tssal - gazing upward to the stars with hopes of carving out a better life.
The arts are held highly in Tajaran culture, with music being the most prominent, a renaissance coming in the post slavemaster era. Older Tajaran are generally more accomplished in the arts while younger have turned to newly-available education.


=== Ethnicities ===
'''Remember, crewmember, mutual respect and cooperation are the cornerstones of success and productivity!'''
Much like humans, Tajaran have various "sub-species", which differ in some form in physiological traits.
*[[Hharar]]
*[[Zhan-Khazan]]
*[[Njarir'Akhan]]


=== Home Planet ===
Tajarans hail from Ahdomai, the smaller of two twin planets. It is very cold and icy, and they possess fur for the purpose of self-heating and feline attributes for stability in their environment.
=== Current Day ===
Tajaran currently exist in a limbo between being accepted into the galactic community and a source of cheap labor used by the megacorps. They are seen as newcomers and as somewhat backwards, ignorant, and (especially) easily exploitable. They are second-class citizens, for the most part, due to their dependency on other, more advanced races for the technology that allows them to even get off of Ahdomai, though people on both sides attempting to take steps towards full integration. Human smothering is a legitimate danger to Tajaran society, as quiet as it is, and several corps do their best to 'humanize' Tajara in behavior and imprint on them. A lot of corporate and independent activities taking advantage of and brutalizing Tajaran are still present in the modern day, with several outposts on Ahdomai being condemned for atrocities and straining relations on occasion.
Corporate-sponsored border skirmishes still occur frequently on Ahdomai between various clans that are supported by different megacorporations. Travel alone over long distances is discouraged.


{{Species}}
{{Species}}


[[Category:Fluff]][[Category:Lore]][[Category:Species]]
[[Category:Fluff]][[Category:Lore]][[Category:Species]]

Revision as of 00:44, 22 November 2016

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This article or section is a Work in Progress.
Assigned to:
Lore Team
Please discuss changes with assigned users. If no one is assigned, or if the user is inactive, feel free to edit.

The Tajaran (ᴛᴀʜ-jaw-run, plural ᴛᴀʜ-jaw-rah) are a species of furred, feline beings. The Tajaran hail from Ahdomai, the smaller arctic world of two twin planets.

Mechanics

  • Tajara can speak a unique language - Siik’tajr. Use this in game by typing say :j
  • Tajara have claws, and unarmed damage done by them is applied as sharp.
  • Tajara have improved vision in low-light conditions.
  • Tajara are less vulnerable to cold, but more vulnerable to heat.
  • Tajara are able to devour mice and other small animals with an aggressive grab.

The Tajaran and YOU

Greetings, esteemed crewmember!

In an effort to encourage inter-species cooperation and workplace efficiency, NanoTrasen has compiled a series of helpful guides on the various species that you may be working with!

(NOTE: If you are a member of the species this guide pertains to, please give it to the nearest crewmember of another species)

This particular guide refers to the species known as the Tajaran (singular: Tajaran, plural: Tajara).

Tajaran Naming Schemes

Tajara utilize a naming scheme that produces relatively short given names and surnames. As their original names often prove impossible to pronounce for the average speaker, many Tajara adopt very rough approximations to allow for easier communication. Tajara populations typically originate from larger clans as opposed to smaller groups, leading to much of the population sharing the same surname. No doubt due to this curious cultural practice, a recent census concluded that the total number of surnames on Ahdomai numbers only in the thousands.

Curiously enough, the first and last name can either be separated by a regular space or an apostrophe in its written form, depending on the clan. Examples include: “Khar’Thron”, “Rakh’Khazan”, “Reshir Hadii”.

Tajaran Physiology

TajaraM.png
A typical Tajaran

The Tajaran are a species of omnivorous, bipedal beings with features that bear a strong resemblance to terran felines (IE: the common house cat). The Tajaran body is covered almost entirely with a thick coat of fur, and many individuals develop a shaggy mane along their nape and scalp. Tajaran fur colors typically display minimal contrast with each other, and as a rule of thumb the mane is typically darker than the rest of the fur. Various colourations and patterns have been observed in Tajara populations ranging from flat, undifferentiated patterns to spots, stripes, and patches of varying colour. The adolescent Tajaran stands between 160cm (63in) to 190cm (75in) in height, and heights typically do not deviate outside of this given range.

Like many known bipedal humanoids, Tajara have a set of two relatively large eyes that provide them with a wide field of view and exceptional clarity at distances both long and short. Tajaran eyes - unlike humans - also possess a small reflective layer near the retina that helps reflect light and substantially improve night-time vision and awareness. Interestingly, studies have shown that Tajaran eyes are classically deuteranopic and are unable to tell between varying shades of red, green, and orange.

This trait is believed to have persisted in the Tajara population well into the 2470’s until the advent of genetic manipulation. Tajara possess two typically erect ears atop their head capable of distinguishing frequencies outside the range of normal human hearing. Tajaran ears display a wide range of motion and are capable of rotating up to ninety degrees and folding back flat against the skull. Because of the unique structure of Tajara ears and their ability to pick up on high-frequency sounds, it’s not advised to use ultrasonic equipment near your Tajaran coworkers, as it may induce migraines.

Tajaran hands and feet feature five stubby digits that are thicker compared to the extremities of most other species. A set of partially retractable claws originate from the second knuckle and terminate at the tips of Tajaran fingers and toes. Tajara are digitigrade, and by extension most standard issue footwear is ill-fitting. As part of Nanotrasen’s line of mandatory introductory workplace seminars most Tajara have received instructions on how to modify on-station footwear to suit their needs.

All Tajara possess a flexible, prehensile tail. This appendage is muscled and is capable of an exceedingly large range of movement. For your personal safety, it is recommended you do not attempt to pet any of your Tajaran coworkers. All medical equipment aboard NanoTrasen vessels is compatible with Tajaran biology, and does not require modifications to accommodate them.

The Siik'tajr Language

Siik'tajr gets its origins amongst the peasantry of Ahdomai, and was historically derided as being the “language of beggars”. Due to its simple yet precise grammar as well as its prevalence in the lower echelons of Tajara society, it quickly became the common tongue during a period of postwar economic fallout in the early 2430’s.

Siik’tajr is unfortunately impossible to utilize fluently for members of all other known species due to its incorporation of body language and its unique enunciation. One may note that Tajara commonly extend the consonant “R” when speaking, as proper enunciation of Galactic Common is often challenging for the native Tajaran.

The Tajaran Homeworld

The Tajaran hail from Ahdomai, the smaller of two planets in close orbit with one another. Ahdomai is a mineral rich world with temperatures commonly in the subarctic range. Covered with snow and glacial ice through most of the year, Ahdomia’s seasons are punctuated by frigid winters and mild summers.

Recent studies have shown that the global average temperature is on the rise, and an alarming lack of biodiversity on Ahdomai compared to prior years. This sudden shift in temperatures and drop in biodiversity is due to a natural phenomenon involving Ahdomai’s coastal air currents and shifting habitats, and is wholly unrelated to NanoTrasen’s planet-wide industrial efforts.

A Brief History

Ahdomai.png
Ahdomai & Iluk

For hundreds of years the Tajaran homeworld of Ahdomai was simultaneously united and oppressed by a ruling class called ‘The Overseers’, which united the disparate warring clans of Ahdomai in a series of violent, bloody conflicts known as the ‘Thirty Year March’ - a campaign which spanned 2042 to 2076. The Overseers ruled over the freshly conquered clans of Ahdomai with an iron fist, and even the slightest transgression earned a heavy-handed punishment. For instance, having the audacity to speak to an Overseer without first being spoken to was commonly met with beatings, or even outright execution.

This united front - brutal as it was - quickly saw the Tajara people from a medieval period into the beginnings of a vibrant pre-industrial age by 2120, thanks largely to the establishment of the ‘Alchemist’s Counsel’; a central body of science (which exists to this day) dedicated to prolonging the rule of the governing body. Goods, services and technology - largely to the benefit of The Overseers - proliferated as a result of this scientific union and the Tajaran people were brought into the information age by the early 2300’s.

Just prior to the launch of the first satellites to grace Ahdomai’s orbit in 2357, the NSV Alesko (a small exploratory expedition funded by NanoTrasen and headed by Dr. Saelnik) discovered Ahdomai and subsequently the Tajaran people. Dr. Saelnik’s team while apprehensive at first, quickly established first contact with ‘The Overseers’. Seen by the ruling elite as a potential tool to further their stranglehold on Ahdomai, the NSV Alesko was soon granted access to Ahdomai’s planetary surface.

Dr. Saelnik’s team (much to his chagrin) was forced to work directly with the Alchemist’s Council for the duration of their studies, and spent the better part of 2360-2390 studying Tajaran culture, language, governance and history in exchange for the NSV Alesko’s star charts. Word quickly spread of Dr. Saelnik’s findings, and by the time his research was completed more than a few corporations (including NanoTrasen) had already begun constructing dedicated outposts on Ahdomai’s barren twin. With the groundwork for diplomacy already laid out, much of NanoTrasen’s research efforts were directed toward mapping out Ahdomai’s vast reserves of mineral wealth with the intention of elevating the Tajaran people beyond the early space age.

Due to the gap of technological understanding between NanoTrasen and The Overseers, the ruling elite inadvertently caused the crash of a NT mining probe near a secure facility in 2395, leading to the escape of Szhara Tssal - one of Ahdomai’s many intellectual revolutionaries. In the interests of scientific pursuit, Tssal was granted asylum aboard the soon-to-depart NSV Alesko by Dr. Saelnik. During his time aboard the NSV Alesko, Tssal saw how a truly collaborative effort could improve everyone’s living conditions, and wrote a manuscript on his ideas which he aptly titled “Gazing Upwards”.

Upon Tssal’s eventual return to Ahdomai in 2417, he began illicitly distributing his manuscript to any and all who would listen. Though quickly captured and promptly executed (one of those listening was also an Overseer spy) his ideas spread by word of mouth like wildfire, and his works are credited for sparking large-scale revolts across the globe in the following years. The response by The Overseers was swift, uncompromising and brutal, leaving the rebels to soon find themselves in a full blown war with their masters.

Rival corporations with existing facilities on Ahdomai (interested in protecting their own assets and profit margins at the expense of all else) began to provide both sides of the conflict with monetary and military aid. NanoTrasen however (unlike its competitors) saw the merit in the aspirations of the rebel forces and quickly intervened in the conflict, supplying both training and armaments to bring what was now called the ‘Beggar’s War’ to a swift close by 2426.

A provisional government - with the support of NanoTrasen - was soon propped up by the rebels to oversee the postwar transition period, eventually leading to a decentralization of power and natural re-splintering of Tajara society along clan lines.

Tajaran Culture

Tajara traditionally live in family communes, with multiple parents raising their children together. In the post-war era of Tajaran society, equality and unity are strongly recognized as key values. While Tajaran society still struggles to this day with managing the economic and cultural fallout from the dissolution of their primary governing body, the Tajaran have undergone what could only be called an artistic renaissance. Tajaran works - from tapestry, to portraits, to music - are readily available in almost all civilized corners of the known galaxy.

Education on Ahdomai is heavily funded and overseen by the Alchemist’s Council, and is readily available to any and all native citizens of Ahdomai free of charge. However, as this institution - though largely reformed - is seen as an old vestige of prior rule, many Tajara remain skeptical of seeking out a formal education. In response, various corporations (including NanoTrasen) have stepped in to provide quality education for Tajaran adolescents with guaranteed future employment opportunities and job placements.

Much of Ahdomai and the main Tajara clans still pay homage to the teachings of Tajr-kii S’randarr (roughly translated as “We who follow S’randarr”). These teachings pervade almost all aspects of modern Tajaran culture, from sun motifs in paintings to turns of phrase referring to “the Light”. After the fall of the Overseers, many Tajara have turned their backs on established religion, and some of the smaller clans within Tajaran society have turned to their own interpretations and practices of the original teachings.
(See Appendix A for a detailed rundown of existing Tajaran belief systems)

Present Day

Though relative newcomers to the galactic scene and lacking in any real substantive naval or economic capacity, the Tajaran have managed to remain on friendly terms with the HSA and on neutral terms with the various governments and species populating the galaxy. Tajaran society is still split along clan-lines with various governments dotting the surface of Ahdomai, many of which are uncomfortable with the idea of reunification largely due to the abuses suffered under the Overseers.
(See Appendix B for more information on the Human-Skrellian Alliance)

Despite still being fractured amongst clan lines, life on Ahdomai is relatively peaceful - the war weary populace being loathe to take part in conflict between other clans. Much of Ahdomai’s industry is reliant on foreign corporate infrastructure and investment due to its destruction during the Beggar’s War, with NanoTrasen holding the largest share of Ahdomai’s industrial economy.

With newfound access to the galaxy and readily available corporate placements, many Tajara find themselves - much like Tssal - gazing upward to the stars with hopes of carving out a better life.

Remember, crewmember, mutual respect and cooperation are the cornerstones of success and productivity!


Species on Paradise Station