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Subject: RESOURCE: Trek Guide (1)
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Date: 3 Apr 1996 14:00:28 -0500
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THE FANTASY GUIDE TO STAR TREK
BY
CAPTAIN SULU COM. CARLSON
Space: The Final Frontier...
-- Gene Rodenberry
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preface
Alien Species In Star Trek
We Are Borg
The People
A Few Weapons Of Star Trek
Adventure Story
"Fifty Ways To Kill An Ensign"
Special Thanks
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
PREFACE
The information presented here is so that the GM may create NPCs
based on the Star Trek environment. The information isn't extensive
enough for the creation of Star Trek characters. For people who wish to
play with Star Trek characters, they should purchase the Star Trek
Roleplaying Game.
The information presented here is for a GM to run fantasy
adventures in the Star Trek environment without playing the complicated
Star Trek Roleplaying Game.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
ALIEN SPECIES IN STAR TREK
TABLE: Racial Ability Requirements
Ability Human Klingon Vulcan Romulan
Strength 3/18 6/21 6/21 3/18
Dexterity 3/18 3/18 3/18 3/18
Constitution 3/18 3/18 4/19 4/19
Intelligence 3/18 3/18 6/21 4/19
Wisdom 3/18 3/18 3/18 3/18
Charisma 3/18 2/17 2/17 3/18
Ability Kzin Andorian Tellarite Gorn
Strength 3/24 6/21 2/17 3/24
Dexterity 14/24 4/19 3/18 2/17
Constitution 3/18 3/18 4/19 4/19
Intelligence 3/18 4/19 3/18 3/18
Wisdom 3/18 4/19 3/18 3/18
Charisma 3/18 2/17 1/16 1/16
Ability Betazoid Bajoran Cardassian Ferengi
Strength 3/18 3/18 3/18 2/16
Dexterity 3/18 3/18 3/18 2/16
Constitution 3/18 3/18 4/19 3/18
Intelligence 3/18 4/19 3/18 3/18
Wisdom 3/18 4/19 3/18 3/18
Charisma 3/18 3/18 2/17 1/16
TABLE: Racial Ability Adjustments
Race Adjustments
Tera Human -----
Human Varies by world of origin based on gravity (When working
in a "normal" G-Field):
Lt. Gravity: -3 Strength; +3 Dexterity, -30% Weight
Hv. Gravity: +3 Strength; -3 Constitution, +30% Weight
Klingon +3 Strength; -1 Charisma
Vulcan +3 Strength; +3 Intelligence; +1 Constitution;
-1 Charisma
Romulan +1 Intelligence; +1 Constitution
Kzin Strength (3d8); Dexterity (2d6 + 12)
Andorian +3 Strength; +1 Dexterity; +1 Intelligence; +1 Wisdom;
-1 Charisma
Tellarite -1 Strength; +1 Constitution; -2 Charisma
Gorn Strength (3d8); -1 Dexterity; +1 Constitution;
-2 Charisma
Betazoids No Adjustments
Bajorans +1 Intelligence; +1 Wisdom
Cardassians +1 Constitution; -1 Charisma
Ferengi Strength (2d8); Dexterity (2d8); -2 Charisma
TABLE: Average Height And Weight (Male/Female)
Height In Inches Weight In Pounds
Race Base Modifier Base Modifier
Human 69/55 2d10 154/132 6d10
Klingon 88/74 2d12 176/111 5d20
Vulcan 80/74 2d10 154/111 5d10
Romulan 70/60 2d10 154/111 4d10
Kzin 96/84 2d12 400/300 5d20
Andorian 100/78 2d10 154/88 1d20
Tellarite 78/96 2d10 176/330 6d20
Gorn 87/61 2d12 440/220 5d20
Betazoid 69/55 2d10 154/132 6d10
Bajoran 69/55 2d10 154/132 6d10
Cardassian 88/74 2d6 154/120 3d10
Ferengi 59/65 2d4 130/160 3d10
TABLE: Age
Maximum Age Range
Race (Base + Variable)
Human 90 + 2d20
Klingon 50 + 3d10
Vulcan 150 + 5d20
Romulan 125 + 3d20
Kzin 50 + 3d20
Andorian 90 + 2d20
Tellarite 50 + 2d20
Gorn 30 + 1d20
Betazoid 100 + 5d10
Bajoran [100 + 5d10]
Cardassian [50 + 3d10]
Ferengi [50 + 2d20]
Algolian, pl. Algolians
These tall humanoids have a gold leathery skin w/ small circular
openings about the head. They have wide set nostrils, and atop their
head runs a single ridge, back to front. Algolians are famous for
their "Ceremonial Rhythms."
Andorian, pl. Andorians
Andorians are humanoids with blue skin, white hair, and knobby
antennae on top of their heads. They have no visible ears. No veins
in circulatory system.
Andorians are by nature a violent race, but need reasons to
quarrel. They generally appear as controlled as Vulcans.
Families are important to Andorians, with marriages being made up
of groups of four. They are not big believers in charity.
Antican, pl. Anticans
These "humanoid" beings bear a vague similarity to both
Terrestrial canines and felines. They have longish muzzles, leathery
skin and large balding craniums, although they have shaggy burnsides
and moustaches. They are carnivorous, demanding fresh meat. They
share the Beta Renna system with their ancient enemies, the Selay.
Arcturian, pl.Arcturians
These humanoids have a saggy gray skin, with numerous sags and
folds on the face.
Bajor or Bajoran, pl. Bajora or Bajorans
The inhabitants of the planet Bajor belong to an ancient society
with firm a dedication to spiritual pursuits. Striking architecture
with rounded domes and spherical shapes marks the landscape of the
world. The ancient Bajora were great architects and engineers "before
humans were even standing erect."
The people are deeply mystical, and believe in spiritual
phenomena. They are devoted to a non-secular philosophy that differs
greatly from Humanity's rational, scientific way of life.
The Bajoran religious leader, known as the Kai, resides in the
ancient monastery that is the center of spiritual life surrounded by
monks who meditate and chant in chords. He or she challenges
conventional human logic. The Kai seem to have an awareness on a
higher plane of consciousness, knowing things they cannot possibly
know. The 'powers'of the Kai are not always easy for more secular
minds to accept at face value, but neither can they always be
explained. The Kai often speaks in vague, mystical and indirect
language, forcing the listener to seek the meaning.
The Celestial Temple of the Prophets, the source of the "Tears
of the Prophets", the mysterious orbs that have arrived each millenia
to teach the populace, are among the fundamental sacraments of the
Bajoran religion. The Pagh, roughly translated as "energy meridian,"
can be explored through deep tissue massage of their ears, an
exploration that seems to reveal a person's true
nature. The Pagh is more than soul, or fate, but contains aspects of
each. Another word for soul, as well as meaning Ghost, or Spirit is
Borhya. Borhyas often remain after the body's death to give the person
time to say goodbye to his or her past life.
The ritual "Death Chant" sung by the monks is at least 2 hours
long.
Since the Cardassian Invasion of Bajor, and the subsequent rape of
the planet's resources Much of the culture has changed, as this people
try to adapt to the needs of survival. Even with the Cardassian
withdrawal, the political situation remains precarious and the only
stabilizing influence is the Kai. Bajoran terrorists still populate
refugee camps on neighboring planets.
Barzan, pl. Barzani
These humanoids have raised eyebrows and upswept "V" shaped
forehead ridges. They must wear a breather unit. The Barzan culture
is impoverished.
Benzite, pl. Benzites.
These beings are humanoid in shape. They are hairless, with a
plue-gray skin. Facially, they bear more of a similarity to cat-fish
than to humans, with feeler-like protrusions over-laying the mouth, and
a mere nose slit. They have three fingers and two opposable thumbs.
And they wear a special breathing unit that sit in front of their
mouth.
Benzites come from the planet Benzar. They have broad, possibly
social, units called "Geostructures," and Benzites from the same
geostructure tend to appear identical to non-Benzites.
Betazoid, pl.Betazoids
While Betazoids are essentially humans, they are listed
individually because of their culture. The only physical differences
between Betazoids and Earth Humans are a 10 month gestation period, and
the entire population has eyes with solid dark pupils. Their pulse is
aboute 76 BPM, BP is 110/72, respiration of 20, and a body temperature
of 37.2 C. Betazoid women are not considered fully matured until they
reach their "Phase," somewhere in their 40s or 50s when they reach
Midlife. At this point, their sexual drive quadruples, and they are
considered to be fully sexual.
Their homeworld of Betazed is Earthlike, and has large oceans.
Betazoids are telepathic as a race, although they are often merely
empathic when dealing with other races. They are often uncomfortable
around those species whose minds they can not read, like the Ferengi or
the Breen. This telepathy is usually acquired at adolescence, and has
created a society based on total honesty. There is a ritual "genetic
bonding," a form of arranged marriage, performed with Betazoid
children. The actual "Joining ceremony" of adults is performed with
all participants and guests in the nude, to symbolize the act of love
being celebrated.
Bolian, pl. Bolians
The inhabitants of Bolius IX come in three basic colors: light
green with a yellowish tinge; a blue tinged darker green; and a deeper,
nearly flourescent blue. Men are bald, while the women have shorter
hair, often reflecting the predominant color of their skin. Bolians
have a small double ridge that vertically bisects their bodies, and
long ears.
Borg, pl. Borg
The Borg may be more than one humanoid species who have been
transformed into a vast group mind, interconnected collective of
cyborgs. The various Borg, and Borg vessels are interconnected through
a subspace communications network. They are responsible for the
destruction and "assimilation" of many civilizations. They have an
extremely high technology level.
Breen, pl. Breen
Nothing is really known about this race beyond the fact that they
are impenetrable to Betazoid telepathic powers.
Brekkans/Onarons
The inhabitants of these two planets are apparently identical in
species. They are humanoid, but for a small ridgy surface at the
bridge of the nose. They are capable of generating intense electrical
charges from their bodies.
Bulanoan, pl. Bulanoans
These humanoids have a grayish reptilian skin and a scaly face,
although they have hair sweeping around the rear of their heads.
Bynar, pl. Bynars
This diminuative humanoid race has a fairly large cranium:body
ration. They are asexual. They have asymetrical ears, a lilght purple
tone to their skin, and a ruff of purple hair along the base of the
otherwise hairless skull.
Bynars come from the planet Bynus, a planet in the Beta Magellan
system. They often travel in pairs, and work in pairs. They are
cybernetically interconected with their world's master computer by
means of "mechanical" data buffers and biochips.
Caitian, pl. Caitians
These bipedal felinoids are human size. Females have thick manes,
but otherwise have a fine short hair pelt, long tails, and large golden
eyes. Males have no manes. Their fur is either orange or brown,
although they may come in other colors.
Caldonian, pl. Caldonians
A very tall humanoid race, with a large bony forehead. They
appear to have only three digits on their hands. The planet Caldonia
is committed to scholarship and research as its primary trade product.
Cardassian, pl. Cardassians
Cardassians are tall humanoids, long necked, covered with cord-
like ridges, especially along the jaws, ears, and parallel ridges
sweeping up and away from the deep eye sockets and over the top of the
head. They have a grayish skin color.
Cardassians were once a spiritual people, but due to increasing
poverty brought on, apparently by depletion of their natural resources,
they have become a visciously aggressive people, who have been
described as having a "wolf-pack mentality." That there is a cultural
struggle for dominance even in social settings is obvious even in the
subtleties of their architecture, placing the dominant person above his
subordinants.
Cheronian, pl. Cheronians
The inhabitants of the planet Cheron are humanoid, with skin tones
of black and white evenly dividing the body in half. They have the
ability to generate electrical charges from their bodies. One was able
to telepathically gain control of a ship's navigational computers, but
this may have been an individual attribute, and not a species wide
ability.
Chrysalian, pl. Chrysalians
Un undescribed reace refered to as having "been at peace for more
than 10 generations." They apparently do not get involved in
interstellar matters.
Deltan, pl. Deltans
Deltans are an ancient, highly evolved race who appear completely
human, and are listed individually because of their culture. The only
physical difference between Deltans and Earth Humans are a 10 month
gestation period. Deltans are either bald, or have thick luxurient
white hair, which is never cut. They have an effective exocrine
systems that radiates pheromones that have an extreme effect on Humans.
They are psi-empathic from birth. There is a strong psychic bond
between a Deltan child and its mother.
Deltans never bothered to explore Outer space, being far too
interested in Inner space, and finding adventure and fulfillment within
themselves. However, they are among the best navigators known.
A major part of the Deltan culture is the sexual act. Deltans
combine not merely their bodies but their minds and souls during sex,
finding it far more fulfilling than the mere physical act. Because
Humans are often emotionally incapacitated by this aspect of sex, and
find the thought of returning to the unfulfilling human act
intolerable, it is Starfleet policy that Deltans serving with "sexually
immature" species must take an oath of celibacy.
Deltan females often wear a "love band" about their heads to
identify their sexual status. A male simply touching this band can
invoke a sexual responce.
Edo, pl. Edo
These beings are tripeds, with 3 arms. They have orange skin,
and yellow eyes.
EXTRAGALACTIC, OR EXTRADIMENSIONAL CREATURES
These include the Traveler's people, the Kelvans, and Syliva
and Kolb, the servants of the Old Ones.
Ferengi, pl. Ferengi
Ferengi are short, twisted humanoids, with huge hairless heads,
big ears and sharp teeth. A forehead tatoo indicates the particular
Ferengi is in the military. Ferengi have yellow blood.
The Ferengi don't care about courage, although they are careful to
cultivate the appearence of courage. Cheating and stealing are tests
of cunning and skill. Ferengi feel that a victim of a scam is at fault
because they were not smart enough to protect themselves, nor were they
wiley enough to get revenge.
Ferengi have a form of "honor," typified by the Ferengi Code,
which dictates theri behavior when caught doing something wrong.
Ferengi men do not live with Ferengi women, and male children are
brought up by their fathers.
They are impenetrable to Betazoid telepathic powers, possibly due
to their four "Brain nodes."
"First Federation"
The inhabitants of the "First Federation" are very small humanoids
that look like small, bald children
Gorn, pl. Gorn
These seven foot tall bipeds are intellegent reptiles. They are
very strong. They have three fingers (2 fingers and an opposable
digit), and multi-faceted eyes, much like an insect's.
Grizela, pl. Grizelas
An intellegent, hybernating species.
Human, pl. Humans
There are effectively three forms of humanity in the galaxy.
There are humans born on Earth (Terra), there are humans who were born
on any of the over a thousand colony worlds; and there are those humans
that have no apparent Earth human ancestry. Among this third
population include the Morg and Eymorg of Sigma Draconis VII, the
Catulans, the Gideonites, the Iotions, the Zeons and Ekosian, and so
forth. One might have difficulty classifying the inhabitants of
"parallel" Earths, such as the Onlies of Miri's World, the Yangs and
Khoms of Omega IV, or the Romans of Planet 892-VI, but for our
purposes, they should be considered a portion of the third population.
On some of the many worlds of humanity, particularly those that
have been inhabited for a long time, the population has often evolved
slightly in order to better adapt to local conditions. This evolution
is best seen in the differences based on gravity.
Regardless of this, on all planets inhabited by beings with a
basically Human physiology, those beings are considered as Human. This
is despite unimportant variations in height, weight, skin coloration,
sensory enhancement, or other superficial differences. In general,
humans range in skin tone from a light tan, with red tints, through a
variety of brown and red shades, to a nearly black shade with purple
highlights.
It should be remembered that although two Humans may have
basically the same physical characteristics, their motivations and
cultural backgrounds may well be very different.
Socially, humanity is continually developing, evolving out of the
dark night of the late 20th and 21st centuries, and the aggressive
period of colonization of the 22nd. Even so, they still often appear
as adolescents against more mature civilizations such as the Vulcans,
the Deltans and the Betazoids.
Jarada (pronounced Harada), pl. Jarada
The Jarada are a reclusive insect race with a hive-mind culture.
They are protocol obsessive and easily offended.
Klingon, pl. Klingons
Physically, the members of the Klingon species appear to be
similar to Terran Humans. They tend to be larger in size than humans,
with a greater muscle mass ratio, and they tend to reach their full
height at an earlier age than do humans.
There are a number of distinguishing features, however. The most
notable is that Klingons have a large bony ridged patterned forehead,
with a central ridge that begins at the tip if the nose and follows the
centerline of the body over the top of the head, and down to the base
of the spine. They also have short, hair-like spines on their legs and
a single, large claw on each foot.
Internally, there are a number of differences between Klingons and
Humans, including a large number of secondary backups for biological
systems. They have a large, 8 chambered heart, two livers, 23 ribs,
double lines neural pia matter, a backup synaptic system, and even a
small, auxiliary brain at the base of their spinal column, protected by
the pelvic girdle.
Klingon blood is a bright magenta and quickly dries to a red/brown
color.
Klingons have at least two skin tones, and it is reported that the
darker skinned Klingons come from the northern regions, while the
lighter skinned come from the more southern. Even so, Klinonds tend to
be dark of complexion and hair color, as compared to humans, and male
Klingons usually wear beards and mustaches.
Klingons have an excellent sense of smell, and good vision.
Klingons are, by nature, hunters, and the flame of the predator
burns in their blood. Their preferred food is flesh, preferably raw
and either freshly killed or else still living. This ancestral passion
for violence, deeply rooted in their genetic structure, has shaped
their culture, marking it as a true warrior's society.
Aggression and conflict are natural, preferred states for most
Klingons. Klingons have a long tradition of settling personal disputes
and disagreements through physical confrontations.
While their emotions are turbulent and at times savage, at times,
Klingons will show a tenderness, and thoughtfulness that is surprising
to the unprepared. In general, Klingon society stresses physical
strength and fighting skills above mere intellectual achievement, and
it seems that most Klingon scientific effort goes into developing tools
of warfare. However, the works of Klingon novelists, as well as their
art, opera and poetry show this not to be the case. The "tea
ceremony," named for the human ritual it vaguely resembles, is an
artistic masterpiece of ritual.
Klingons come from the planet Kronos, a green world orbiting the
star Klingon. It has one major landmass, the rest of the planet
remaining covered by ocean. This large area of open sea, and the
planet's seriously tilted axis, combine to give the planet a very
turbulent atmosphere, and a broad range of temperatures, extending to
the extremes.
The government of the "Klingon Imperial Empire" is not always
clear. While there has been mention in the past of an Emperor, there
is no sign of such a person. The Empire is governed by the Klingon
High Council, consisting of about ten Councilors, and the Supreme
Commander. Whether the Supreme Commander also holds the title of
Chancellor is not known.
At least for the males, the Klingon cultural hierarchy is similar
to that of some terrestrial primates, in their contests for dominance
with in the "tribe," with, in theory, the most dominant Klingon ruling
the empire. This may not be exactly true, and it appears that in the
upper levels of the government there are other roads to power than mere
physical prowess. But every dominant male must be prepared for
challenges to his authority from the more submissive males. Personal
charisma has little importance to Klingons society than strength.
Central to an understanding of Klingon culture is the Klingon view
of honor. Honor is very important to a Klingon, and a Klingon's
personal honor is closely intertwined with that of his family. It is
the family and the relationship of the family to the larger "tribe"
that sets the pattern of behavior toward the "tribe" as a whole. These
are described in the myths and legends of Kahless the Unforgettable and
his brother Morath.
A Klingon male's personal relationship to the "tribe" of Klingon
society can be seen by noting several of the rites of passage a Klingon
must go through.
The first of these is the "Age of Inclusion." This is the age at
which a child is recognized by the "tribe" as a living entity. It
occurs about the age of 6. Prior to this time, the child is reared as
though it were a true Klingon child, but with the recognition that in
the violence of the world, that child may die with no great sense of
loss to the family.
The second major rite of passage is the Age of Ascension, when the
Klingon child becomes a Klingon Adult, and a full member of the
"tribe." This rite is celebrated when the child is about 16 years old.
Every 10 years after that, a portion of the ceremony is repeated, with
tests of skill and courage to show the Klingon's friends and family the
depth of his personal strength, and thereby his value to the tribe.
This importance of belonging to the tribe may be seen in the Ritual of
Discommendation, where a Klingon is formally ostracized, turned out
from the "tribe." A Klingon who has gone through this ritual is
considered dead by all Klingons, and where possible it is made to seem
as though that person had never existed.
Another important ritual is the Bonding, the Rustaii, which makes
an outsider a part of a Klingon's family.
The role of women in Klingon society is not clearly understood
yet, but it appears that women are not accepted into political power.
In sexual matters, however, it is the woman who is the more aggressive.
Little is known about Klingon child bearing and rearing, but it
appears that the Klingon gestation period is about 111 days, and that
during the first few years the growth of the child is very rapid. This
implies a delay in the full development of the Klingon brain, a
development that takes place after birth rather than in the womb, but
of course this is conjectural.
There is a classic belief that Klingons move up through the ranks
by assassination, can not be true, since there are old Klingons in high
ranking positions, and besides that would mean a tremendous level of
attrition among the ranks. However, should a Klingon leader cease to
be able to command effectively, killing him before he dishonors himself
or weakens his unit, is an honorable action. Also, any subservient
males who remained under a weak male are, by implication, expressing
their own weaknesses.
Murders and challenges to power, however, should not be anonymous
things. A Klingon ordered to kill a prisoner will make certain that
the victim first sees the face of his or her killer. A knife to the
heart is an honorable death, as is dying by any weapon. Stabbing or
shooting the victim in the back, by the way, may be considered a
courtesy, so that the victim needn't dishonor himself either by further
by fighting his inevitable death, and spared the indignity of being
wrestled to the ground. A knife to the heart is an honorable death, as
is dying by any weapon.
On the other hand, killing by poison is not honorable because the
assassin can do so and not never let his victim know who his murderer
was. The same is true of sniping at a target from a distance. And it
may be this philosophy that has kept the Klingon race from destroying
itself with nuclear weapons.
Illness is not considered honorable, and so the level of Klingon
medicine is quite primitive, by comparison to that of Humans. A
Klingon who is seriously ill, or debilitated by physical injury is
expected to kill himself, in order to keep from dishonoring his family,
as well as forcing them to endure a lingering illness.
Klingons, as a rule, do not lie, and take a VERY dim view of those
who do. Klingons do not cheat, steal or bluff, either. Klingons do
not drink or socialize with their enemies, outside of specified neutral
areas, where this rigidness may be relaxed to an extent. Klingons do
not take hostages, as that is a cowardly act, although they are capable
of committing savage reprisals against subject populations. Klingons
never surrender, and have absolutely no regard for anyone that would so
dishonor himself. With their concept of honor above life, death in the
line of duty is the best death for a warrior. Klingons do not fear
death, but rather they celebrate the release of the spirit at death,
noting the instant with a ceremonial wailing to warn the dead that a
Klingon will soon be among them.
Little is known of the Klingon spiritual life. They have a belief
in Jat'lyn, or the possession of the living by the dead, and while they
have no devil in thier religion, they do have Fek'lyr, who guards the
souls of the dishonored.
Koinonian, pl. Koinonians
Little is known about this humanoid race that destroyed itself
in a multi-generational war centuries ago.
Kriosian, pl. Kriosians
Not to be confused with the Klingon colony of Krios, the world of
Krios, like that of its colony world of Valt Minor is inhabited by a
humanoid race, distinguishable from human only by a line of "leopard"
or "giraffe" spots along the hairline and down the neck. This race
produces "empathic metamorphs," of both genders (although the female is
more rare than the male). Whese metamorphs reach sexual maturity, they
begin to emit high levels of pheromones, and begin to empathically
adapt themselves to the members of the appropriate gender around them,
becoming the "Perfect Mate" for the one they finally bond with.
Kzin, pl. Kzinti
(Note: Animated Series only)
The Kzinti are a species of large felinoids, or cat creatures.
They range about 8' tall, standing bipedally, and weigh in excess of
300 lbs. They are covered in orange and black fur, have claws that
extend from their finger tips, ears that resemble Chinese parasol
segments, and long naked rat-like tails. They are culturally
carnivorus, although, biologically omnivorous. They have an extensive
rib structure that acts as a form of internal armor.
They are a warrior species, bred and genetically engineered in
antiquity by their ancestors to be the equal of their legendary heros.
They are extremely aggressive and competitive, each Kzin struggling to
achieve fame and glory. The Kzinti have fought Humanity in four wars,
and were eventually beaten each time. They had been at a medieval
cultural level, and about a rennaissance technological level when they
were discovered by the five armed Jatoki. The Jatoki tried to hire the
Kzin as a mercenary species, and in turn became the Kzinti first slave
race.
While the male Kzinti were being reborn as Heros, the females were
being genetically reassembled into barely-sentient subservience.
The Rijt are the Patriarch's clan, or the ruling family of Kzin.
In general Kzinti have no names, and are merely designated by their
job, until they earned a name, or partial name, through some grand and
heroic activity.
Some Kzin have telepathic powers, although these are rare. They
are addicts of a hormone extracted from the Sthondat, an animal from
the Kzin Homeworld. Telepaths are often nearly insane, by either Kzin
or Human standards. They are also careless about their appearance, and
are in many ways the antithesis of the Kzin Hero.
Medusan, pl. Medusans
Nothing is known about the physical description of these beings,
except that if they are corporeal, they are very small. The mere sight
of a Medusan will drive nearly anyone, of any race, insane. Medusans
are excellent navigators.
Melkot, pl. Melkotians, or Melkots
This highly civilized race is very xenophobic. They appear to be
nothing more than a head and a neck ending in tentacles, floating above
the ground. They also have large round, bright yellow glowing eyes.
However, considering their tremendous mental powers, including
telepathy and illusion, this may not be their true appearance.
Mintakan, pl. Mintakans
These are vulcanoids, although with a more pronounced forehead
bulge. Their culture is at a level equivalent to early bronze age.
Mizarian, pl. Mizarians, also Myzarians
These humanoids are white skinned, with wrinkled, striated faces,
and usually wear elaborate hoods resembling the Sydney Opera House.
The people of the planet Mizar II are by nature intellectual pacifists.
The planet has been conquered 6 times in the past 300 years.
Orion, pl. Orions
Note: It is assumed that there is a connection between these and
the inhabitants of "O'Ryans Planet" mentioned in the background
literature of ST:TMP.
Orion slave girls are humanoid, green and exotic. Allegedly
animals bred for pleasure.
Shaman priests are humanoid, but biological details are hidden
behind featureless golden masks and leather ceremonial garb resembling
that of a Native American plains tribe as viewed in a television
western.
Pakled, pl. Pakled
These are rotund, lethargic humanoids with bushy upswept eyebrows,
bulging forehead, heavily bagged eyes, and a dewlip. They are not the
most intellegent race in the galaxy, but they are fairly sneaky.
Pentarus (?)
These are humanoids indistinguishable from human, but for a single
bushy eyebrow across the forehead, although this may just be a fashion
statement.
Romulan, pl. Romulans
Romulans are the descendents of an ancient Vulcan colony, and
hence are physically similar to Vulcans, although some Romulans have
bulkier foreheads. "Romulan" is the name of the race given by the
Earth Space Forces that met them in combat, basing their views on the
unseen foe on the details they could piece together from combat tactics
and debris details that were reminiscent of Ancient Rome.
The Romulan home world is the third world of a binary star system,
call Romulus and Remii by Human astronomers. The home world is, in
turn part of a dual planet system, and is also called Romulus. Romulus
is geologically very active. It has two continents, Dektenb and
Masfarik, and at least one sea, the Apnex.
The continent of Dektenb has the Firefalls of Gath Gal'thong and the
capitol city of Dartha. Masfarik, on the other hand, is notably more
rocky and barren, with its cities set on the few oases on the
continent.
Romulan cities are built vertically and very tall, from beautiful
and magestic monumental architecture at the top, and stretching down to
dark and grim catacombs set into the bed-rock of the planet. Most
Romulans live in apartment complexes, with only those with the most
power living in individual, almost palatial houses.
The Government consists of a single, powerful "Praetor," less
powerful, but possible as influential "Proconsuls," and a Senate.
Romulans are intelligent, dedicated, and extremely efficient.
Romulans, unlike Vulcans, are very much creatures of pride, aggressive
emotions and passions, and possessing the capacity for great violence
when provoked.
Romulans are superb warriors, fighting in a cool, calculating
manner, and conquest is considered the "Romulan Path to Glory." They
generally don't take prisoners, although they have been known to
capture prisoners for information, killing them when their usefullness
comes to an end. Romulans neither ask nor give quarter. They will
destroy their own ships and people rather than allow them to be
captured, preferring an honorable suicide to failure.
The Romulan lifestyle is Spartan and militaristic, with the
personal wants and needs of the individual often surrendered to the
good of the whole. Romulan leaders demand instant obedience from the
populace, and like many Human totalitarian regimes are seeming obsessed
with security.
Romulan culture favors obedience over original thought and action,
and thus Romulan creative intellectual achievement is not as highly
developed as thier Vulcan cousins'. Romulans seem to be missing the
Vulcan psychic powers, as well as such common Vulcan maneuvers as the
Neck Pinch. Romulans are sexually egalitarian. Romulans view human
culture, and by extention, as exploitive and short-sighted.
Romulans have an absolute belief in their own superiority. They
are often highly manipulative in their affairs, adjusting circumstances
carefully, plotting as if playing a game of chess. They will generally
wait for their adversaries to make aggressive moves first, testing the
resolve of their opponents.
The Romulan salute to their superiors is the right fist struck
over the chest then held out, palm down.
Saurian
Nothing is known of this species.
Selay, pl. Selay
The Selay are bipedal reptiles and are about human height and
weight. They have a cobra-like "hood,"and they are a dark green color.
They have an excellent sense of smell. They have four digits, of which
the "dew claw" has evolved into an opposable thumb. Their dark blue-
green planet orbits Beta Renna, a star they share with their ancient
enemies, the Anticans.
SHAPESHIFTERS
These include the Antosians, the Chameloids and the Lassomorphs of
Daled IV.
Skeliak, pl. Sheliak
The Sheliak Corporate is a reclusive culture that are fixated one
precision in language and view humanoids as lesser life-forms. They
are technological humanoids that resemble a wrap of black, mucous
secreting folds and tenticles.
Solari, pl. Solarians
These are stoop-shouldered, craggy-faced humanoids from the planet
Solais. They have been engaged in a war between the blond and
brunettes of their population for the past 1500 years.
SUPERRACES
Talarian, pl. Talarians
Talarians are outwardly humanoid, although they have a ridge on
the top of their heads, running front to back, and the men are balding.
Talarians express greetings by touching foreheads. They have a rigidly
patriarchal society. The highest concepts in the culture are honor,
family and duty to their superiors. While they are ruthless in combat,
they will adopt an enemies' children.
Tanaguan, pl. Tanaguans
These are humanoids with upswept eyebrows and 2-3 "V" shaped
ridges on the forehead.
Tellarite, pl. Tellarites
Tellarites are heavy set humanoids, and their piglike faces gives
them a vaguely porcine appearence. They are intensely aggressive,
boisterous, and argumentative for no reason other than the pleasure of
a good argument. They are not always considered entirely trustworthy.
Talosian, pl. Talosians
These are an ancient highly technological race of humanoids with
large hairless craniums. They have tremendous psychic powers including
telepathy and illusion.
Tholian, pl. Tholians
These beings appear to be red-gold, and almost crystaline entities
with large triangular white-glowing eyes. They appear to exist in a
very hot climate.
Trill, pl. Trill
The Trill are a joined species comprised of two separate but
interdependent entities; the host and the symbiont. The host provides a
humanoid body. The symbiont is an invertebrate, androgynous lifeform
that lives within the host. It looks like a short, fat snake, a foot
long lump of cranial and exoskeletal tissue. The humanoid hosts have
an "M" shaped ridge on thier nose and forehead.
Many centuries ago, the symbionts lived underground while the
humanoids were on the surface. Due to an environmental disaster, they
were forced to 'join' to survive. As time went on, this mutual support
evolved into a biological interdependency. Now, at a certain point in
the humanoid's life, in post-adolescence, some of the humanoids,
although not all of them, are joined with a symbiont and two
individuals become as one. They speak with one voice, which means you
can't ask to speak with the symbiont or the host, only the combined
lifeform. Although, it appears in some cases that the Trill becomes
the active party, supervising the functions of the body. The host
becomes a merely passive observer.
The symbiont's life span is far longer than the host's and as a
result one symbiont will be combined with several hosts during its
life. When a host dies, doctors surgically remove the symbiont, which
then is reimplanted, burrowing itself into the new host.
The result of this joining is often an serene character who brings
a calm, centered voice to any discussion. It is possible that some of
the personalities, memories, experiences, an so forth of some the
symbiont's previous "lives" can come back to haunt them, or otherwise
cause them problems.
It is possible for the Trill entity to exist within another
species of humanoid than the normal host species.
Troyan, pl. Troyans
Humanoids with blue skin and white hair.
Ullian, pl. Ullians
This telepathic race appears humanoid, but for bulges in the
temple regions.
Vian, pl. Vians
These are a highly technological race of humanoids with large
hairless craniums.
Vulcan or Vulcanian, pl. Vulcans or Vulcanians
Vulcans are an ancient race, proud, dedicated, loyal,
honorable, and have a highly ritualized society devoted to logic and
the suppression of emotions.
Vulcans are different in physiology and psychology from
Terrestrial Humans. They are Human-like in many respects, but in other
ways they are totally different.
The pointed ears are obviously efficient at gathering sounds from
the thin Vulcan atmosphere. Vulcans are stronger than Humans, with a
greater physical endurance. The Vulcan heart is located about where
the Human liver sits in the abdominal cavity, thus implying a greater
lung capacity. They have a higher metabolism than the Human norm.
Vulcan blood chemistry is allegedly based on copper rather than
iron, although there are other arguements that their blood merely has
copper elements to it. Regardless, their blood has little or no
sodium, and is a rich green color. This tends to give them a somewhat
greenish-yellow complexion. Some sources have given the Vulcan heart
rate as 242 BPM with a blood pressure of 80/40, implying larger blood
vessels. However these same sources suggest that the green Vulcan
blood is merely due to the presence of the chlorocurin protein in the
blood, and not the copper elements.
Vulcans tend to be tall and slender, with dark hair, although
there are some blondes.
Vulcan eyes are protected from the glare of the harsh Vulcan sun
by a thin transparent membrane, much like a second eyelid. This eyelid
also allows them to sleep with their eyes open.
Finally Vulcans must return to their ancestral lands and mate
every seven years as they under go the Ponn Farr. It may be assumed
that this need is part of their culture, rather than truly a biological
requirement, as it seems unreasonable that the inhabitants of Vulcan
colonies, including Romulus would have to return to Vulcan to mate,
although, they may have to return the the world they were born on.
The name given to their home planet by human astronomers is
Vulcan, It is a harsh world, dry and hot, with higher gravity and a
thinner atmosphere than Earth. These conditions have shaped the
Vulcans' physical development.
Vulcan's civilization and cultures are older than those of Earth.
In their prehistory, Vulcans were tribal and warlike, at least as
irrational, intensely emotional and savage as early Humans. They were
aggressive, militaristic, and violent. At its height, this
aggressiveness had allowed them to establish colonies on the planets of
distant stars. Finally though, their savagery had brought them to the
last of the great wars that had all but destroyed their world. They
were turned away from the final annihilation by the philosophies of
Surak, the father of Vulcan Logical Thought. Surak introduced the
philosophy of logic, and the suppression of the intense Vulcan
emotions.
Today's Vulcans do not express emotions, letting logical thought
and rational decision-making rule their lives. Many Humans hold the
misconception that Vulcans have no emotions. This is not true, but it
is so widely believed that some Vulcans believe it themselves.
Actually, Vulcans hold in their emotional reactions. They depend on
mental discipline to keep their emotions from affecting their thinking
and actions.
This process is so much a part of Vulcan society, that it is
automatic for Vulcan adults, even under great stress. In fact, the
expression of emotion is considered to be in extremely bad taste in
Vulcan society, where only a barbarian or mental defective would hink
of such a thing. Although even sophisticated and well-traveled Vulcans
find Human emotional expression baffling and somewhat distasteful,
Vulcans who are exposed to human cultures are usually able to live and
work around the emotional species in situations where less
sophisticated individuals might find intolerable. Nevertheless, even
the most inexperienced Vulcan ought not show his dismay, preferring to
avoid Human contact whenever possible. This distancing often gives
them an aloof air, and so often Vulcans are intolerably rude by Human
standards.
The pacifist philosophy that led to the development of Logic has
affected Vulcan culture in other ways as well. For example, Vulcans
are cultural vegetarians, finding the idea of killing animals for food
unacceptable. Generally, Vulcans will avoid killing except under the
most extreme provocation, nor will they use "deadly force" against
another living being. For this reason, Vulcans rarely carry arms,
although a variety of martial art forms have been developed, and are
still taught, such as Tal Shaya, or "Merciful Execution," which can
kill, or the Neck Pinch, which is used to stun. Some Vulcans have
carried this pacifism to an extreme, believing that there is never any
reason to kill any living being.
The Vulcan pursuit of the logical ideal has led them to great
accomplishments in both the sciences and the arts. Intellectual
pursuits come naturally to Vulcans.
They tend to be very private individuals, and dislike to be
touched, not even to shake hands. Vulcans are very aware of their
self-image, and the simple proprieties can assume an importance that
may seem bewildering to outsiders. Vulcans have a great appreciation
for beauty, even in the most simple things. Even their rituals have a
simplicity and elegance to them.
Another result of the intellectual/mystical/philosophical thrust
of Vulcan culture is the development of their mental powers to a level
matched by few other races. Centuries of psychic exercises and mental
discipline have made the Vulcans capable of some remarkable mental
feats. Many of these psychic feats are a regular part of the culture,
with most Vulcans able to perform them to some degree. Among these is
the Vulcan form contact telepathy, called the "Mind Touch."
The discipline of the Kolinar is the mastery of self and emotion,
as well as these psychic feats, leading to a negation of the concept of
"self."
Central to "Vulcan Mysticism" are the concepts of NOME, or All,
and IDIC, translated as "Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations."
Zakdorn, pl. Zakdorn
The Zakdorn, who may come from Qualar II, are a peaceful race
whose culture reflects a calm assurance and confidence. They are
masters of organization and efficiency, methodical and fastidious.
They have also been, for the last 9 millenium, acknowledged the masters
of natural military strategy in the known galaxy.
Physically, they are unimpressive. They are rotund and slightly
twitchy, with pronounced baggy cheeks, jowls and facial folds.
Zalkonians
These humanoids have ripple-lapped foreheads and cheeks. They
are evolutionaly near discorporeation.
GOD-LIKE RACES
These include such non-corporeal species as the Organians, the
Dowd, the Q, the Metrons, Trelaine's people, Thasians, "the Companion,"
the "Friendly Angel," and so forth.
Treat the various super races in the table as gods without a need
for worshippers (with one exception) and the representatives listed
below as Avatars of those gods.
"Q" Trelaine Apollo Organian/Dowd Metron
God Status Greater Lower Lower Greater Lower
Type Trickster War Pastoral Peace Simplicity
Strength 12 15 18/27 10 12
Intelligene 25 17 18 25 25
Dexterity 13 15 19 10 12
Wisdom 15 11 18 25 18
Constitution 14 16 18 10 13
Charisma 12 14 19 10 14
Size 6' 6' 9' 6' 6'
Magic Res. 100% 25% 25% 100% 25%
Armor Class 10 2 0 10 10
Hit Dice 15 5 17 1 5
Hit Points 130 50 136 6 45
"Q"
The Q Continuum is a collection of super entities about which
practically nothing is known. What information has been revealed is, at
best, highly suspect, as the only member of "The Continuum" humans have
so far dealt with has been a Trickster character.
UNKNOWNS
?????
Short, furry humanoids. ("Journey to Babel")
?????
Dark, pygmie-like humans. ("Journey to Babel")
?????
Chubby humanoid with a three nostril nose, as well as pairs of dual
half-inch circular openings on each side of the chin and forehead.
They have one single-hole ear, and hair on the back half of the
cranium. They may be Lyans. ("The Most Toys")
?????
Reptillian, though females have well developed mammaries.
Hairless, they have a yellowish skin, and the rear of the cranium
extends back into a point. ("Unification", Emmisary")
?????
Four armed humanoids for whom salt is a narcotic. May be
called Filimase, and artistic species, with a home planet of
Talemestra. ("Unification")
?????
Small humanoid with a greenish insect-like face ("Future
Imperfect")
?????
Humanoids with respirator masks, large heads and robes. May
be called Zaranites. (ST:TMP, ST:TVH)
?????
Humanoids with grim, skull-like faces and an explosion of
bushy hair that comes in black and white. May be called Kazarites.
(ST:TMP)
?????
Human-like with a tall cranium, and an insect/skull-like face with
sharp folds on cheeks and large pointed ears. They have extremely long
hads that appear to be almost flippers. They wear ornate, long-flowing
clothes. may be called Betalgeusians (ST:TMP)
?????
This humanoid has long yellowish/white hair, claws and a
"beast" like face with a dark brown, barklike skin. They wear a
sort of plate armor as part of their ceremonial garb. If they are
called, as may be, Rigellians, they may be related to the large 7'
tall race of warriors from Rigel. (ST:TMP)
?????
Tall insect/stony faced humanoid with scaly forehead. May be
called Megarite. (ST:TMP)
?????
This race is roughly human shaped, and human arms peak out
from thier robes, but they posess very large hairless, skull-like
faces and craniums. Thier skin is a pale yellow-green color. The
may be called Aamazarites. (ST:TMP)
?????
Humanoids with respirator masks, large heads and robes. May
be called Xelatians. (ST:TVH)
?????
Tall Humanoids with bulging foreheads and lon rearward sloping
craniums. They have large, rearward sloping pointed ears. May be
called Arkenites. (ST:TVH)
?????
Reptiloids with splotchy, scaley skin. May be called Ariolo.
(ST:TVH)
?????
Humanoids with dark skin with white hair and white markings on
their faces. May be called Efrosians. (ST:TVH)
?????
White, vaguely walrus shaped beings with hair along the sides
of their "painted doll" faces. May be called Arcadians (ST:TVH)
?????
Reptile-like beings with thin necks, small heads, and a long snout.
May be called Bzzit Khaht. (ST:TVH)
?????
Large reptile like humanoids with dinosaurian heads. They
have to tall ridges over the eyes running to the back of the head.
May be called Kasheeta. (ST:TVH)
?????
Gigantic humanoids, silver skinned, whose heads have horny growths
running from their temples to their chins. (ST:TUC)
?????
Large horned-toad humanoid, scaly, with horny growths around head,
and its genetalia in the region of its knees. (ST:TUC)
?????
7' tall simina with an orange pelt. (ST:TUC)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
WE ARE BORG
The Borg may be more than one humanoid species who have been
transformed into a vast group mind, interconnected collective of
cyborgs. The various Borg, and Borg vessels are interconnected through
a sub-space communications network. They are responsible for the
destruction and "assimilation" of many civilizations. They have an
extremely high technology level.
BORG: Individual Humanoid unit
STR: average to very (9-18+)
DEX: average
CON: average (special)
INT: collective
WIS: collective
CHA: below average to others - not applicable to other Borg
The individual fights as a fighter, saves as a mage. Borg
technological powers that mimic fantasy spells are Teleport without
Error, Shield, Protection from Normal Missiles, Tongues, Telepathy.
Basically, Borg are powerful, and the GM should play them as he wishes.
Just watch all the episodes with Borg first (skip the Hue episode).
When reduced to zero hit points or integrity is compromised, Borg
unit will explode. Borg unit must be completely disintegrated to
prevent explosion.
BORG Group Mind: Collective
STR: nil
DEX: nil
CON: 25+
INT: 17
WIS: 22+
CHA: nil
The Borg collective mind is very intelligent, but not fast.
However, it's wisdom (memory) is virtually infinite. Note that the Borg
can recall and react to anything it has encountered before (i.e. attack
works once, but within 3 rounds the borg have figured out a defense).
All Borg work as a single organism (whether this is just on one ship or
all the ships that make up a meta-organism is unknown), with each
individual unit being part of the mechanism.
A Borg can "summon" (similar to the spell) more borg as needed.
The Borg can apparently teleport through the shields of a Galaxy Class
starship.
The Borg will abduct members of a race and "assimilate" them into
the borg collective, gaining the knowledge and adding it to their
wisdom.
When the Borg collective is confronted with true magic, they will
need some time to assimilate it into their knowledge base, then will
formulate the appropriate defense and/or offense. Will the Borg stick
to just technology or would magic become part of their repertoire?
So now a few things to think about. Bringing the Borg to a fantasy
world would be great for them. All those races to assimilate; yum, yum,
yum. What would happen if they assimilated demons and devils? What if
they assimilated great wizards, clerics, and psionicists? The
knowledge of magic and psionic power they could gain added to their
technological knowledge would make them extremely powerful.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Article: 1853 of rec.games.frp.archives
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From: d2dcblu@fre.fsu.umd.edu (L.L. Cool Ranch Dressing)
Newsgroups: rec.games.frp.archives
Subject: RESOURCE: Trek Guide (2)
Followup-To: rec.games.frp.misc
Date: 3 Apr 1996 14:02:21 -0500
Organization: Frostburg State University, Frostburg, MD
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-----------------------------------------------------------------------
THE PEOPLE
Strength Constitution Dexterity Intelligence Wisdom Charisma
Kirk 14 14 16 16 12 18
Spock 19 16 15 20 20 15
McCoy 11 11 16 15 13 16
Scott 12 12 13 15 14 12
Sulu 13 13 16 16 15 15
Checkov 13 12 14 14 12 13
Uhara 11 12 16 15 15 16
Chapel 9 10 14 14 11 14
Presented below are three sets of stats for the people of Star
Trek: The Next Generation because of the various interpretations.
Choose the one that seems the most appropriate.
Strength Constitution Dexterity Intelligence Wisdom Charisma
Picard 14 15 15 17 18 17
Riker 15 17 16 16 14 17
Data 23 -- 25 25 -- 14
Worf 18/00 18 14 14 10 10
Geordi 13 14 15 17 13 13
Troy 10 11 13 13 17 17
Beverly 10 12 13 16 13 16
Wesley 12 14 15 18 19 12
Strength Constitution Dexterity Intelligence Wisdom Charisma
Picard 12 15 14 16 17 16
Riker 13 14 12 14 12 14
Data 25 -- 25 25 -- 10
Worf 18/00 16 14 12 10 12
Geordi 12 14 15 14 10 11
Troy 09 13 14 14 13 15
Beverly 10 12 13 15 13 15
Wesley 12 14 14 18 12 13
Strength Constitution Dexterity Intelligence Wisdom Charisma
Picard 12 15 13 16 17 16
Riker 13 14 14 14 12 14
Data 23 -- 25 25 -- 13
Worf 18/00 16 14 12 10 12
Geordi 12 14 15 14 10 11
Troy 09 13 14 14 13 15
Beverly 10 12 13 15 13 15
Wesley 12 14 14 20 12 9
Presented below are two sets of stats for the people of Star Trek
because of the various interpretations. Choose the one that seems the
most appropriate.
Strength Constitution Dexterity Intelligence Wisdom Charisma
Kirk 12 14 14 15 12 17
Spock 17 15 13 18 20 11
McCoy 10 10 14 15 13 15
Scott 11 10 12 16 14 11
Uhura 10 11 16 16 15 15
Checkov 12 11 12 15 12 15
Sulu 12 11 16 15 15 14
Chapel 11 10 13 12 11 13
Strength Constitution Dexterity Intelligence Wisdom Charisma
Kirk 14 14 16 16 12 18
Spock 19 16 15 20 20 15
McCoy 11 11 16 15 13 16
Scott 12 12 13 16 14 12
Uhura 11 12 16 15 15 16
Checkov 13 12 14 14 12 13
Sulu 13 13 16 16 15 15
Chapel 9 10 14 14 11 14
Presented below is a set of stats for the people of Star Trek:
Deep Space Nine.
Strength Constitution Dexterity Intelligence Wisdom Charisma
Sisko 13 14 12 15 15 15
Kira 14 15 13 14 10 14
Dax 10 15 13 19 19 14
Odo * * * 15 15 9
M. O'Brien 15 14 16 15 14 12
K. O'Brien 9 14 13 15 12 15
Quark 12 17 17 13 12 10
Bashir 12 12 14 16 11 14
* Odo's physical characteristics change with the form he's in.
A Look at Spock's PSI
PSP: 111
2 Disciplines: Telepathy Clairsentience
3 Sciencs: Mindlink Sens to Psi Impressions
Probe
10 Devotions: Contact ESP
False sensory input Mind Bar
Post Hypnotic Suggestion Send Thoughts
Radial Navigation
3 Defenses: Intellect Fortress Mental Barrier
Mind Blank
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
A FEW WEAPONS OF STAR TREK
----------
Phaser
----------
There are two types of phasers: Phaser I and Phaser II. Phaser I
does not have a handle and can fit easily in the palm of the hand. The
hydrogen energy cell in a Phaser I holds 50 charges. Phaser II is
larger and has a handle. The two hydrogen energy cells in a Phaser II
holds a total of 100 charges.
Type Range Charges
Phaser I 5/10/15 50 Range is given in
Phaser II 10/20/30 100 tens of yards.
A phaser is different than other weapons in that it has a setting
controls that allows various forms of damage.
SPREAD:
Normal - The wielder makes a normal "to hit" roll.
Wide - The wielder doesn't make a normal "to hit" roll. Instead, the
target makes a saving throw vs. paralyzation to avoid being hit. This
saving throw is made at a bonus of +2 if the weapon is used at medium
range, or +5 if the target is at long range.
SETTING:
The number following the setting is the number of charges that
will be drained from the battery per hit. Wide-spread attacks will
drain twice the number of charges per person affected. The setting are
as followed:
Stun (1) - Target must make a successful saving throw vs. wands or be
rendered rigidly immobile for 5d4 rounds. A save indicates that the
stun didn't affect the character this time. The ray from this setting
is blue.
1 (2) - Target suffer 1d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage. The ray color from settings 1 through 10 are various shades of
red (1 being light red, and 10 being dark red).
2 (3) - Target suffer 2d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
3 (4) - Target suffer 3d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
4 (5) - Target suffer 4d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
5 (6) - Target suffer 5d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
6 (7) - Target suffer 6d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
7 (8) - Target suffer 7d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
8 (9) - Target suffer 8d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
9 (10) - Target suffer 9d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
10 (12) - Target must save vs. death magic or die.
Maximum (14) - This setting causes matter to vanish. It affects even
matter (or energy) of a magical nature. Disintegration is
instantaneous, and its effects are permanent. Anything within the 10' X
10' X 10' cube is obliterated. A thin, green ray (no wide-spread
attack) causes physical material affected to glow and vanish leaving no
trace.
Overload (all) - This setting causes the phaser to build up energy that
surpasses safety parameters until it explodes destroying the phaser.
Phaser I has a blast radius of 25 yards and does 5d10 points of damage
to living things in the blast radius. Phaser II has a blast radius of
50 yards and does 5d20 points of damage to living things in the blast
radius.
----------
Phaser TNG
----------
Type Range Charges Settings
Type Ic 5/10/15 50 1-3
Type I 5/10/15 50 1-8
Type II 10/20/30 150 1-16
Type III 20/40/80 225 1-16
Range is given in tens of yards. Type Ic is a civilian model. Type III
is a rifle.
A phaser is different than other weapons in that it has a setting
controls that allows various forms of damage. Also, the weapon has an
automatic timer.
SPREAD:
Normal - The wielder makes a normal "to hit" roll.
Wide - The wielder doesn't make a normal "to hit" roll. Instead, the
target makes a saving throw vs. paralyzation to avoid being hit. This
saving throw is made at a bonus of +2 if the weapon is used at medium
range, or +5 if the target is at long range.
SETTING:
The number following the setting is the number of charges that
will be drained from the battery per hit. Wide-spread attacks will
drain twice the number of charges per person affected. Each setting has
a unique sound. The setting are as followed:
Light Stun (1) - Target must make a successful saving throw vs. wands
or be rendered rigidly immobile for 1d6+4 rounds. A save indicates that
the stun didn't affect the character this time. The ray from this
setting is blue.
Medium Stun (2) - Target must make a successful saving throw vs. wands.
Success indicates that the target is rendered rigidly immobile for
3d6+2 rounds. Failure indicates that the target is rendered rigidly
immobile for 1d6+2 rounds. The ray from this setting is blue.
Heavy Stun (3) - Target must make a successful saving throw vs. wands.
Success indicates that the target is rendered rigidly immobile for
3d10+10 rounds. Failure indicates that the target is rendered rigidly
immobile for 3d6+2 rounds. The ray from this setting is blue.
1 (4) - Target suffer 1d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage. The ray color from settings 1 through 10 are various shades of
red (1 being light red, and 10 being dark red).
2 (5) - Target suffer 2d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
3 (6) - Target suffer 3d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
4 (7) - Target suffer 4d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
5 (8) - Target suffer 5d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
6 (9) - Target suffer 6d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
7 (10) - Target suffer 7d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
8 (11) - Target suffer 8d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
9 (12) - Target suffer 9d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
10 (13) - Target suffer 9d10 points of damage, save vs. wands for half
damage.
11 (14) - Target must save vs. death magic or die.
12 (15) - Target instantly dies.
Maximum (16) - This setting causes matter to vanish. It affects even
matter (or energy) of a magical nature. Disintegration is
instantaneous, and its effects are permanent. Anything within the 10' X
10' X 10' cube is obliterated. A thin, green ray (no wide-spread
attack) causes physical material affected to glow and vanish leaving no
trace.
Overload (all) - This setting causes the phaser to build up energy that
surpasses safety parameters until it explodes destroying the phaser.
Type Ic has a blast radius of 25 yards and does 5d10 points of damage
to living things in the blast radius. Type I has a blast radius of 50
yards and does 5d20 points of damage to living things in the blast
radius. Type II has a blast radius of 100 yards and does 10d20 points
of damage to living things in the blast radius. Type III has a blast
radius of 150 yards and does 20d20 points of damage to living things in
the blast radius.
OTHER WEAPONS OF NOTE
Betleh - Use of this weapon requires two skill slots to use. The
Betleh is such a complicated and versatile weapon, that the users gets
a number of options with it in combat. The character gets the downswipe
hack with a speed of 9 damage of 2d8/4d4. One other benefit from the
betleh is that it is a natural parrying weapon, so it counts as a
shield in melee combat (remove the AC bonus when in the process of
making a downswipe hack, as the warrior is busy with the windup for the
attack until 9 segments later).
A third proficiency spent on betleh gives access to both slashing
and jabbing attacks, at speed of 5 with damage of 1d8/1d6 and speed of
3 with damage of 1d4/1d4, respectively.
How this works in combat is that the warrior with his betleh at
the ready has until his initiative number to decide how he will attack,
whether he needs speed over damage, and allows a little more role-
playing flavor.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
HISTORY OF FANTASY TREK ITEMS
TELEPORTER HISTORY
The original sea vessel, the Starfish Enterprise, under the
command of James T. Smirk (see note 1), had a magical item called
Transportation Beam. It was a small splinter of wood, the size of a
tooth pick, which, when the command word was said, grew to a fully
sized wooden beam with legs. The legs allowed the beam to walk on land
or paddle in water. Up to four people could sit on the beam, and it had
a carrying capacity of 500 pounds.
To command a Transportation Beam, the user usually says "beam me
xxx, Scotty", where xxx is a compass direction, and Scotty is the
activation word. Another possibility is "beam me to the ship, Scotty".
Note that the beam cannot fly, and the phrase "beam me up, Scotty" has
never been actually heard, contrary to common misconception. If the
beam is in compressed form, it expands once the command is said and can
be used. If it's already in full size, it just takes the new direction.
When all users dismount the beam, it shrinks back to tooth pick size.
The Starfish's namesake, the jamming Starship Enterprise, didn't
include such a powerful device, but the transportation methods used on
the ship gave the term "beaming" a whole new meaning. Apparently the
crew of the Starship Enterprise heard about the usefulness of a beam
for transportation, and did their best to make use of beams for this
purpose. The effort was headed by captain Fab-Look Picard, who was a
great believer in "the old ways".
The first use of a beam for transportation was simple. If you want
to get quickly to the surface of a planet, what's faster than jumping
off the ship? Of course few people would do it of their own free will,
but after being knocked unconscious by a large beam, they wouldn't
argue any more, and it was easy to throw them overboard. Only ensigns
travelled this way, but even this stopped after the captain was called
to Star Freaks command, and was told that this is The Next Generation,
and ensigns should be treated differently. Of course keeping all
ensigns alive seemed abhorrent to the captain, as it contradicted "the
old ways".
Some time later a psionicist was brought on board. As it happened,
this was a turn for the better. Being a Psychoportation specialist, he
knew the Teleport Other science. It wasn't long before Sharky
La-George, the chief engineer, discovered a use for this power - they
didn't have to bring the ensigns on deck in order to drop them to the
planet, but could just teleport them outside the ship, where they
wouldn't have anything to cling to, and would fall to the planet below.
Certainly saves a lot of carrying.
After a month or two of this, a brilliant ensign brought up the
idea that Teleport Other can actually bring them to the surface of the
planet. He was quickly awarded the first opportunity to try this new
idea. The Teleport worked perfectly, and the ensign landed inside an
active volcano. Of course it took some time to find out what happened,
as there was no means of communication with the ensign, and teleporting
was only one way.
It should be noted that all this time the beaming process
continued to be in use. Apparently unconsciousness was needed before
the Teleport Other power would work (see note 2). The term "beaming"
was used to describe all transportation methods involving hitting
someone on the head with a beam.
As mentioned before, teleporting the ensigns to the surface had
some problems. It turned out that viewing the planet from distance
didn't give the psionicist a good enough idea of the target, and as a
result the landing sites varied considerably. As the ship was close to
running out of ensigns, a considerably better method was needed.
Eventually the psionicist remembered that he had Clairvoyance.
This really helped, and in no time they were beaming people accurately
to the surface.
At this time they hit idea that they could construct a psionic
item capable of transportation. It took several months, and thanks to
the multi-talented psionicist and the great plans of La-George, it
became the unique piece of engineering we all know (if we read note 3).
The Teleporter, as the device was called (after Transportation Gizmo
was rejected), made the Enterprise the most well known of Star Freaks'
ships, and in no time it started doing special "peace keeping" and
"scientific exploration" missions for Star Freaks (see note 4).
But there was one basic problem with the Teleporter - it only
worked one way. Teleporting back to the ship was problematic. Initially
teleportation devices were built on the planets to allow transportation
back to the ship, but these took a lot of time and effort to build.
Lately there has been new research into the Teleport Here power
(see note 5), and new devices are promised to be released "by the end
of fall", which probably means "when the Romulan empire falls", or
"once we stop falling in this bottomless pit".
Note 1: Captain Smirk's full name is James Tea Smirk. As the story
goes, the pregnant Mrs. Smirk was sitting at the dinner table next to
Mr. Smirk when suddenly she started making all sorts of "Oh", "Ooh",
"Aaahhh" and "Eeeh" sounds. "Are you okay?" asked Mr. Smirk. "I'm fine.
Do you want a cup of tea? I'll bring you one," answered Mrs. Smirk,
when all of a sudden little baby Smirk slid from her womb effortlessly,
and landed on the floor, head first. "Nice tea," said Mr. Smirk, "I
wonder what you would have given me if I wanted coffee." And the name
stuck.
Note 2) While the power description of Teleport Other states that a
willing character can be teleported, most simple minded folks have an
aversion to being disintegrated and reintegrated in another place
(which is a common misconception about the working of teleportation),
and therefore are never fully willing to be teleported, even if they
say they are. The problem is even more acute with ensigns, for some
reason. Because of this problem, a lot of psionicists still don't know
that the Teleport Other power can be used on conscious people.
Therefore beaming (and general clubbing) is still very common among the
users of this power.
Note 3: See "Teleporter" article.
Note 4: Read "conquering and pillaging" and "treasure hunting".
Note 5: See "Teleport Here" article.
CAPTAIN'S LOG HISTORY
Ship captains have always had the urge to record their
experiences. In the old days, before the wondrous inventions of quill
and papyrus, these events were recorded by carving them on blocks of
wood, i.e. logs. It is said that the famous explorer, the wizard known
as Mage Lan, once made a trip around the world, and ran out of logs. He
then went on to dismantle several ships in his fleet just to provide
logs for recording the rest of his voyage (several of these logs were
used to describe the dismantling of the ships).
These logs were wildly known as captains' logs. Later, at the time
of the five kingdoms, collectively known as Star Feet, the phrase
Captain's Log referred to one special item, belonging to the well known
ship, the Starfish Enterprise. However with the fall of the Star Feet
confederation, the Log was lost, and its current location is unknown.
The Captain's Log was a wooden log, similar to other logs in
appearance, although the enchantments laid on it made it very special.
First of all, it had the ability to convert speech into carvings, thus
recording the words of its owner. Moreover, once the log was fully
carved, the whole carving was shrunk down to one small mark, allowing
carving to continue on an almost blank log. The writing could then be
recalled by pressing the mark. Marks were laid out along the
circumference at the lower part of the log. The marks were made in
groups of five, with four vertical marks, and the fifth crossing these
first four.
The log also had powers similar to the Ring of Human Influence,
but more limited. In addition to raising the captain's Charisma to 18
on encounter reactions, the captain could also make a Suggestion to any
human or humanoid serving as an ensign on the ship. The log had no
Charm power. Note that the Captain's Log is enchanted in such a way
that only ship captains can use its powers. The only power usable by
others is the ability to recall entries in the log.
As usual, the Starship Enterprise, which became the star ship in
the Star Freaks organization, had its own Captain's Log. Captain Fab-
Look Picard, always a follower of "the old ways", and keeper of antique
comic books, such as those detailing the adventures of the great
epileptic barbarian Shake Spear, was fascinated by the idea of the log.
He ordered a stock of logs, and started carving them. This made Foo D.
Replicator, the ship's chef, quite annoyed, as Fab-Look was using his
knife collection for that purpose. Still, he kept quiet about it. No
use complaining - the captain will just force him to have a session
with Deanna Troll.
But it was Picard himself who decided to stop carving. It was
simply too much work. Comic books made it look so easy. He couldn't
understand how the captains of old had the patience for this. And when
a splinter went into his palm, it was the last straw. He decided to
gather the crew for a brainstorming session. Eventually the captain
came up with an idea - something which will not be a lot of work for
him, yet will allow him to use a log.
The next day, a young ensign reported to the captain's chambers.
Holding a quill and papyrus, he wrote down everything that Fab-Look
told him. When he began to slow down, the captain took his log, and hit
him on the head with it. Unfortunately, because the captain was so
experienced in beaming, but not so in logging, he caused the ensign to
lose consciousness. Even after several days of practice he just
couldn't get the hang of it, so he eventually went on to hit the ensign
on his legs. This improved the situation considerably.
The problem was that the ensign developed walking problems, for
some reason. The ship's doctor suggested that hitting the ensign with a
log caused the problem, but since the captain was hooked on the idea of
logging, he decided that the solution would be to have an ensign in
every place he wants to make a log entry (as he called it). This way
they wouldn't have to follow him everywhere, so that walking wouldn't
be such a problem.
This continued for a few years. In the meantime the Transporter
was created, and Picard was introduced to the power of psionics. The
first application of psionics and logging was a log which could hit
someone without the need for the guiding hand of the captain (note 2).
This certainly made the captain's job easier. It was a nice
implementation of the powers of the original Captain's log in that it
not only allowed the captain to produce written documents of his
experiences, without lifting a finger, but it also allowed him to use
"suggestion" on the crew.
But it was only after the great Og epidemic (note 1), prompted by
a visit from The Few, reduced the ensign population considerably, that
psionic means were used to create a new non-violent item (note 2). It
was actually created even before that, outside the Enterprise, but
Picard only became aware of it at this time. Note that this psionic
Captain's Log was created some time after the events described in the
Transportation Beam article.
The psionic log has caught on rather well, because of its
simplicity compared to the Transporter, for example. Currently a log is
being installed at space station Deep Shit 9 (note 3), and more are
planned for other well known space installations.
Note 1: The Og epidemic initially caused ensigns on the ship to be
polymorphed into hogs, and later dogs. The situation really
deteriorated when they started turning into cogs, and horribly peaked
when one ensign turned into a bog, totally stinking the Hollow Deck.
Mind you, the hogs did like it. Surprisingly, only one ensign turned
into a log, but that was enough to remind the captain that something
had to be done about the logging situation.
Note 2: See the "Psionic Log" article.
Note 3: When the commander of the station arrived at the location, her
first comment was "looks like I'm in deep shit". The name Deep Shit
seemed to become popular, especially as it turned out that the station
suffered from frequent problems, often on a weekly basis. Star Freaks
command got annoyed with the name, and it was admiral Punkt who
answered: "Deep Shit? Nein! I vill not have zis kind of talk. Zis iz a
very gut station." So Star Freaks command decided to call the station
officially "Deep Shit? Nein!", to show their belief in the future of
the station. Unfortunately for them, people outside Star Freaks command
just call it Deep Shit 9.
The psionic log has evolved with time. Presented here are three
versions of the log, from the earliest effort to the latest.
Floating Log
Powers: Telekinesis (12)
PSPs 12
Int 9
Ego 3
Alignment LN
Description: The floating log is a wooden log, three pounds in
weight.
Origins: This was the first psionic log created. It was designed
to save captain Picard the need to lift a log and hit his ensigns with
it.
Use: On command, the log will lift itself into the air, and hit an
ensign on his knees. The ensign is either selected randomly, or by the
captain.
Other uses: The log is also used to make "suggestions" to the
crew. This is usually done by placing the log above a crew member's
head, and then making the suggestion. Of course, there's usually not
much use for this when it comes to the crew, as Picard is the captain,
and can command them to do his wishes. It can still be handy at times,
though.
There's also another use for the log. When the captain is alone in
his room, he always likes to drink a cup of coffee (note 1). The
floating log is great at saving him the effort of actually getting out
of bed to take the cup.
Attack Log
Powers: Telekinesis (10), Ballistic Attack (8), Molecular Agitation(13)
PSPs 28
Int 11
Ego 7
Alignment LN
Description: The attack log is very small, just 1 pound in weight.
Perhaps the term "log" is not the most suitable in this case, but it
fits the purpose of this item.
History: The floating log proved its usefulness when the senile
chief engineer of the Exitprise (note 3) came to visit. He continually
disturbed the work on the ship, until for some reason his leg was hit
by the floating log (note 4). He was then confined to his quarters by
the ship's doctor. Fab-Look then got the idea of using a log to get rid
of unwanted personnel. The attack log was then invented, to improve on
the floating log, which apparently was effective only on old senile
people (note 5).
Use: Upon command, the log will hurl itself at an enemy (or
ensign, as the case may be). The log has THAC0 15, and causes 1d6
points of damage.
Other uses: Since a new log was to be created, Picard decided to
enhance its coffee serving abilities. The Molecular Agitation power now
allows the log not only to serve the coffee, but also to heat it up
(note 6).
Memory Log
Powers: Worm Drive - Read (14) Write (10), Tattoo (12) (note 7),
Body Control (9), Complete Healing (13)
PSPs 40
Int 14
Ego 10
Alignment LG
Description: The memory log is about 8 inches in diameter, and
about one feet in height. Its surface is completely smooth.
History: This item was actually developed off the Enterprise,
which accounts for its lack of any coffee making power, or, for this
matter, any ensign "encouragement" power. While it was later installed
on the Enterprise, Picard still keeps his old attack log.
Use: When the captain uses the phrase "captain's log", the log
will start memorizing his words until it hears the words "end entry".
The log will then use the Write power to save the memory. When asked to
recall a memory, the log will Read it and use Tattoo to inscribe it on
its surface. The log can also recite the memory instead of inscribing
it.
The Body Control and Complete Healing powers are used to keep
the log from harm, and allow it to be used even in hostile
environments. Of course, most Star Freaks captains will never get near
a hostile environment if they can help it, so these powers are rarely
used.
Other uses: Captain Picard also uses the log as an answering
machine, leaving it in his room with a message, and an instruction to
read it if someone knocks on the door, and possibly to remember their
message.
Note 1: Coffee is a drink made of the droppings of the Flandersburg
bird. The name comes from Cof-fee - what a Cof earns for a day's work.
Cofs served their masters at the land of Burnzia, for the small fee of
heating material, in the shape of Flandersburg droppings. When they
were "liberated" by Star Freaks, the Cofs decided to show their
"gratitude" by putting this heating material in a drink. Frankly, it
doesn't taste that good, but Star Freaks members always like to show
that they are men of the universe, and therefore continue to eat and
drink any foul food and drink they encounter (note 2).
Note 2: Giving foul foods to Star Freaks members is a common custom
amongst most intelligent races. The Clingons, for example, are well
know for the disgusting foods they share with Star Freaks members. Of
course on most other occasions Clingon food is considered a delicacy.
This custom is meant to discourage Star Freaks members from making too
much contact with other races, but apparently it doesn't work.
Note 3: The Enterprise was a late model of the Prise family of ships.
Previous ships in the family were the Exitprise and the rather less
well known Nobelprise.
Note 4: Captain Picard always claimed that the old chief engineer just
slipped. He never admitted to commanding the log to hit him. The secret
is kept with Fab-Look and the log, who both vowed not to tell anyone,
even under torture.
Note 5: After being hit on his leg, the old chief engineer kept yelling
"my head, my head!".
Note 6: While personal coffee machines are available on many new ships
(usually used only by captains), captain Picard still uses his old
attack log for this purpose.
Note 7: Worm Drive and Tattoo powers are described in a separate
article.
Tattoo (Psychometabolic devotion)
Power Score: Con -1
Initial Cost: 6
Maintenance Cost: 1/turn
Range: 0
Preparation Time: 1
Area of Effect: Personal
Prerequisites: none
With the Tattoo power, a psionicist can draw intricate designs
over his body, in several different colours. When the psionicist stops
maintaining the power, his skin will return to normal. The one round of
preparation time is used by the psionicist to concentrate on the exact
details of the design.
This power is well known in primitive societies, where such
designs often have to do with the situation or the intent of the
person, and where designs are often used during festivities. It can
still be quite useful in adventuring situations, for example when
there's need to quickly copy a map painted on a wall.
Power Score - the psionicist can change the design once while the
power is active, without paying the initial cost again (but with one
more round of concentration).
20 - The design becomes permanent, and can only be removed by
normal means used to remove a tattoo (or with powers which can affect
the condition).
Worm Drive (Psychometabolic science)
Power Score: Install: Con -8, Write: Int -5, Read: Int -1
Initial Cost: Install: 35, Write: 6, Read: 2
Maintenance Cost: Install, Write: na, Read: 1/round, 1/memory
Range: 0
Preparation Time: Install: 5, Write: 1, Read: 0
Area of Effect: personal
Prerequisites: none
"A worm never forgets", the saying goes. While this is a well
known saying, few people know its origins, with the Spineless Worm.
This worm, once it lives in a place for just one day, will always
remember it, and will return there no matter where you put it. In fact,
if kept at a new location for a day or more, it will remember this new
place too, and when released, will retrace the way between all such
places. It's not known what drives the worm to return to the places it
knows, but as this power has to do with recalling old memories, the
name seemed to fit. As a side note, "you're a spineless worm" is a
phrase of respect reserved for learned scholars, with vast knowledge of
many subjects.
The Worm Drive power is actually a collection of three related
powers - Install, Read and Write. The names have some historical
meaning which has been lost with time. To use Worm Drive, one must
first use Install. This creates a new organ - a kind of sub-brain,
which can store memories. The creation of this organ, like any other
massive change to the body, can cause massive stress. The psionicist
must make a system shock roll. If he fails, the power fails, and the
psionicist passes out for 2d6 turns.
Once Install has been used, the psionicist can Write (store)
memories, and then Read (recall) them. To Write a memory, the
psionicist must concentrate for one round on the memory to be stored,
and then invoke the power. To recall a memory, the psionicist activates
the Read version of the power.
There are two basic ways to recall a memory. If the psionicist
knows what he wants to remember, but just doesn't know the details, he
thinks about what he wants to recall, and then activates the power. The
other way is to go over the memories, from the last to the first. The
psionicist can browse memories at about ten per round, getting only a
vague idea of what each memory holds. Once he finds the memory he
wants, he can get the full details. The memory is then vividly
recalled.
Browsing memories costs one PSP per memory. Once the memory is
recalled, holding it vivid in memory costs 1 PSP per round. Once
maintenance is stopped, the memory fades away over the next turn, until
the psionicist can only remember the details he remembered before
invoking the power. The psionicist cannot browse, recall, and then
browse again, without reactivating the power and making another power
check.
Note that memories stored with Worm Drive are not affected by mind
affecting spells or psionic powers, so, for example, a Forget spell
won't affect a stored memory, even if this memory is of an event which
occurred during the time span affected by the spell. Often psionicists
who have access to this science, and feel that they have been affected
by a memory erasing power, automatically activate Worm Drive and browse
memories, recalling those they can't remember.
Power Score -
Install: the system shock roll automatically succeeds.
Write: no special effect.
Read: full details of the memory are kept in the psionicist's
mind for a turn without need for maintenance, and only then
start to fade.
20 -
Install: a large blob of flesh grows somewhere on the body of
the psionicist, and in addition the psionicist passes out for
2d6 turns. One way to remove the blob is to cut is off, causing
3d6 points of damage. When healed, the body will return to its
normal shape.
Write: no special effect.
Read: the psionicist recalls wrong details.
TELEPORTER HISTORY
As is well known, a psionic item should be made from an item of
exceptional quality which is 48 hours old at most. Unfortunately the
only thing of value which the Enterprise could manufacture was food.
The great chef, Foo D. Replicator, was an honored member of the crew,
and was growing, cooking and baking all kinds of highly exceptional
foods.
The first attempt was made using large circular blocks of cheese,
enchanted with the Food to Stone spell (an extremely well known spell,
often used by store owners, apparently to keep the food intact). The
psionicist failed the empowering process, however, blaming his
inability to concentrate on the smell. Apparently Mr. Replicator's
cheeses were of such high quality that the smell survived the Food to
Stone spell. The second try was with a large pizza, but this caused a
problem with the beaming (see below), so eventually the designers
settled on a huge loaf of bread (enchanted with Food to Stone, of
course).
In the eventual design, the loaf of bread is right below a loose
wooden beam. People who need to be transported stand on the loaf, and
the beam is then dropped on them, knocking them unconscious. Then the
Teleport Other power can transport them to their destination. In
retrospect it's obvious why the pizza shaped transporter wasn't good,
as it's very difficult to find a matching circular beam, let alone drop
it accurately.
The even more problematic side of the transporter was the psionic
empowerment. As usual, the two common problems arose. The first is the
small number of PSPs an item holds. A reasonable Teleport costs 50 or
more PSPs, and with the need to teleport more than one person this is
even more problematic. This is usually solved by including many
redundant powers. The second problem, the limitation of powers to a
single discipline, is usually solved by having several parts, often
communicating through a telepathic part. These solutions were used with
the Teleporter (luckily the psionicist was lawful good, so the parts
work well together).
The Teleporter parts:
Note: The number in parentheses are the power scores for the powers.
Teleport part
The teleport part is stationed above the falling beam.
Powers: Teleport (16), Teleport Other (14), Banishment (15),
Dimensional Door (10), Dimension Walk (9), Dream Travel (9),
Teleport Trigger (17), Time/Space Anchor (16)
PSPs 76
Int 13
Ego 19
Alignment LG
Typical use: With 76 PSPs, it's possible to teleport one person to a
distance of 10,000 miles, or up to three people to a distance of 1,000
yards. The more usual application is sending one important crew member
to a 10 miles distance. This way if the teleport fails, a second
attempt can be made in 20 minutes (assuming that the teleporter was
fully charged with PSPs). Recently a backup teleport part was added,
allowing teleportation of two people to a great distance or two
attempts for one person.
Since an important crew member will rarely travel alone, an ensign
or two are always being sent with him. Unfortunately the teleporter
cannot teleport such a large number of people, so an alternate method
is used. A special device, called Parachute (note 1), was devised. The
unconscious ensigns are connected to a Parachute, and then the
Dimensional Door is activated. One door appears in front of the
teleport device. Since the device faces the floor, it appears on the
floor, under the ensign, which then falls through it and through the
second door, under the ship.
Special uses: When there's no need to return in a hurry, the teleport
part can teleport itself onto the surface of the planet, then regain
its PSPs, and send crew members up one at a time, and then send itself
back. Since the teleport part knows where the ship is (hopefully it
hasn't moved), it doesn't need the help of the other parts. This
function is rarely used.
Clairsentient part
Powers: Clairvoyance (9), Move Focus (12) (see Net Psionics Handbook),
Aura Sight (8)
PSPs 32
Int 17
Ego 8
Alignment LG
Typical use: Before transportation to a location the teleporter doesn't
already know, the clairsentient part is used to get an image of the
location (sometimes called "getting a lock on the location"). Typically
the rough location is found using Clairvoyance, and then refined with
the use of Move Focus, or another Clairvoyance invocation.
Special uses: The clairsentient part is often used for surveillance.
When the ship is on its way, with no need for teleportation, it's a
good time to find out more about the guests. The clairsentient part can
use its Clairvoyance and Aura Sight powers to gain more knowledge about
a visitor to the ship.
The clairsentient part generally sees spying on others as an
unacceptable activity (being lawful good), and the result is a
personality conflict with the operator of the transporter. The part can
be convinced, however, to use Aura Sight on a newly arrived guest, and
then, if the guest is evil, it might agree to spy on him.
Telepathic part
Powers: Mindlink (10), Contact (15), ESP (11), Send Thoughts (17)
PSPs 36
Int 15
Ego 9
Alignment LG
Typical use: When a teleport to a previously unknown location is called
for, the telepathic part waits a while, then contacts the clairsentient
part using Mindlink to find out what it has seen. In case the
clairsentient part is not yet ready, the telepathic part contacts it
again later. The picture gained in this way by the telepathic part is
sent to the teleport part using Send Thoughts.
In an experienced teleporter the telepathic part can often make a
good guess as to the time it takes the clairsentient part to get the
visual impression. The clairsentient part will typically keep the image
in mind at this time. Therefore the ESP power is enough, and saves two
PSPs per invocation. Note also that the parts are always willing to be
telepathically contacted, so the telepathic part has no problem
contacting them.
Special uses: If the destination is known by a crew member, the data
can be received from his mind, instead of using the clairsentient part
of the teleporter.
Note 1: Parachute - originally from para - beside and chute - fall.
The device is built by gnomes. It was invented by a slightly dyslexic
gnome, who apparently read it as "bedside fall".
The device is basically a mattress, to which the person about to
fall is tied. It is intended to break the fall - it's always safe to
fall on a mattress. In fact, it sometimes even works. Note that the
mattress does a great job of soaking water, so if you fall on a lake or
some such, you better get out of the tying ropes as quickly as
possible.
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ADVENTURE STORY
Below is a story of an adventure on the Enterprise from a GM who
ran it. He says it went awesome! The players (or most of them) had a
great time role-playing not knowing a thing about Star Trek. They also
had a great time finding out some of the specifics of the Enterprise
and the crew. It is really fantastic and imaginative and should inspire
other GMs to create some adventurers in the Star Trek setting.
Mist, the Old Red Dragon, used her last breath on Moander, the
Darkbringer. The party, however, noticed that the air was filled with
the smell of marsh gas and had determined that the fire from the
dragon's breath would ignite the area, making it very uncomfortable for
the adventurers. Courtney, the Wizard Most Wild, pulled out a scroll,
uttered a few words, and teleported away, attempting to take the party
with him. Unfortunately, he was not quite quick enough to avoid the
magical shock-wave from the deity's explosion -- the spell went awry.
He did succeed, however, in taking the party with him -- to the first
plane of Hades -- except the party's thief, Fingers Bubblefoot, who
wasn't quite able to reach the desperate mage in time. Fingers was
blown clear away to the Astral Plane, where he wandered for some time.
Courtney, seeing the lack in the party, pulled out his most valuable
possession--a ring of three wishes. "I wish the party was back
together", he intoned, not caring about the side effects of such a
powerful item. There was a FLASH, and then a curious tingling
sensation. When their vision cleared, they found themselves in a 20x40
room, standing on a platform. In front of them were two men, one of
which tapped a curious object on his left chest, and said to the air,"
Captain, you had better come down here..." Seeing the weapons the party
possessed, one man drew a small, oddly shaped box and pointed it at the
party. "Drop you weapons", he commanded. Bashar Teg, the barbarian of
the group, refused and attempted to attack the man holding the box. He
only succeeded, however, in getting blasted into unconsciousness. The
other members of the group were more amenable, and surrendered
peacefully.
The brig consisted of 4 rooms, 3 of which branched out from the
fourth. Fingers, Bashar (Bash), and Alex (former cleric, now paladin)
were put into one of the cells, and locked in by a forcefield. The
others (Courtney, and the Mage/cleric Karalina) were taken to sickbay
to tend to their wounds (Karalina was badly injured in the fight with
Moander, and was even possessed by the Darkbringer for a time).
Unknown to the party, someone had followed the party through space
and time. The evil mage, Glyssaxx, had learned of the party's fate and
had teleported onto the Enterprise. Using his spells, he learned of the
mighty "Phaser" and even where several were kept. After killing the
guard, and opening the Armory, he proceeded to steal several phasers.
An alert security guard, however, noticed the breach in the doors and
investigated, getting hit by several magical missiles before being able
to summon aid.
Glyssaxx, seeing himself outnumbered, ran down the hall to find a
place secure enough to cast his teleport spell. Several security
forcefields were already in place, however, but were no match for a few
disintegrate spells. The guards, too, were only a nuisance --fireballs
worked nicely in disposing of them. He didn't count on the
Enterprise's transporter, for when the first guard saw his comrades
fall, he told the computer to beam the mage out into open space. Thus
ended the life of Glyssaxx.
Meanwhile, the party was getting used to the comforts of the
Enterprise. Several experiments with the food dispensers in the cells
yielded amusing results -- horse steaks, halfling sized cakes, and the
art of instantaneous cooking.... The amusement stopped, however, when
Captain Picard entered and accused the party of conspiring with
Glyssaxx. The party denied it. After a lengthy consideration, Picard
decided to let the party out (they had already made several escape
attempts, but of no avail).
Suddenly, an alert sounded. Accompanying by a guard, the party ran
to investigate. Turning a corner, they saw a pale skinned humanoid
dressed in what looked like leather. He was shooting a blue beam into a
panel. The lights up and down the hallway were blinking off and on, and
general mayhem was being created. The guard fired his phaser, but to no
affect. The party decided to attack, and was able to defeat the
creature (Borg), sustaining only minor damage in the process. The Borg,
however, were not so easily defeated, as more and more started
appearing all over the Enterprise. Also, the ship was being bombarded,
frequently throwing everyone to the deck.
The battle ensued for control of the Enterprise, and during a
scuffle in Main Engineering, an iron quarterstaff (through which the
mage Courtney casts shocking grasp) was embedded into the dilithium
warp chamber. Fearing an explosion, the party ducked for cover, only to
discover that instead of exploding, the staff was acting as a conduit
for raw warp energy.
Meanwhile, other members of the party were teaming up with
Enterprise crew members for a rescue mission to retrieve Picard from
the Borg ship, who had been captured during a battle.
Through some computer damage, the self destruct mechanism for the
ship had been activated, giving the party and crew about 10 minutes to
come up with a solution to this massive dilemma. through teamwork, they
determined that the warp energy embedded into the quarterstaff could be
used to amplify spell energy. This was a dangerous risk to the
spellcasters, as it could have disastrous rebounding effects.
Courtney, fishing out a scroll, deemed it plausible to cast a prismatic
sphere, and hope the energy would be sufficiently amplified to surround
the ship, thus protecting it and also providing a means of destroying
the Borg ship. He proceeded to cast...
Aboard the Borg ship, the rescue party has succeeded in
recapturing Picard and transporting back to the Enterprise. Uttering
the final words of the spell, Courtney directed it into the quarter
staff. Blinding light filled every window of the ship as the sphere
took form. Because of the unique nature of the warp drive, it also
moved with the ship. On impulse drive, the Enterprise rammed the Borg
ship.
A blinding flash of light, and the Borg were gone... taking the
Enterprise with them via tractor beam. The astral plane looked rather
strange to the crew of the Enterprise, but with a plane shift spell,
Karalina managed to free the Enterprise from the Borg while leaving
them to wander the Astral plane forever....
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"FIFTY WAYS TO KILL AN ENSIGN"
The problem is something 'bout your clothes, she said to me
The red shirt and the stripeless sleeves yell, "I'm Security!"
And when you get down planet-side with Kirk, you'll get to see
There must be fifty ways to kill an ensign
He takes a landing party down to find what's going on
A couple of the bridge crew, and some extras come along
And then before you know it - the `expendables' are gone
There must be fifty ways to kill an ensign
Fifty ways to kill an ensign
Just step on a rock, Jock
Get thorns from some plants, Lance
A Horta can spray, Ray
Just listen to me
Clouds drink up your blood, Bud
Computers can kill, Bill
You could lose all your salt, Walt
Kirk gets away free...
She said it grieves me so to see you with such nerves
Not ev'ryone who goes with Kirk will suffer from this curse
But then of course, you must recall - they sometimes suffer worse
There must be fifty ways to kill an ensign
Just tell him, "I'm not stupid and I'm not expendable
I'm not going!" Tell him that he's a Denebian slime devil
And he's overbearing, swaggering, and dictatorial
He'll find a new way to kill an ensign
Fifty-one ways to kill an ensign
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SPECIAL THANKS
Marc Carlson the co-creator who wrote all the creatures and a lot of
the weaponry.
Joel Polowin A.K.A. Bunsen Honeydew for his song "Fifty Ways To Kill An
Ensign".
Eyal Teler for History of Fantast Trek Items.
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