AAB: The Argushiigi Admegulasha Bilanidin, which in Vilani means literally the "Vilani Repository of All Knowledge," is a major scientific institution located on the world of Vland. The extensive AAB facilities include a vast museum, a library, and several research centers and publishing houses. Not only does the AAB collect samples, specimens, and recorded materials from all over explored space, it also publishes an abridged 15 holocrystal encyclopedia set of its extensive data files. Known simply as "The Encyclopedia," the set contains the equivalent of 7500 extensively illustrated volumes, yet it can easily fit into a large pocket. -ld IE

Abh Project: One of two Darrian research projects charged with investigating irregularities in the energy output of Tarnis. Its chosen method of sending an experimental probe deep into the interior of Tarnis resulted in massive disruptions of the star's energy balance, triggering the Maghiz. The Abh project was based in the asteroid belt located in orbit 1 of the Darrian system; all trace of the project was destroyed by the stellar flares the project triggered.

See Udh Project. -ld D

Abh: The first letter in the Darrian standardized alphabet. One of five basins on the surface of Darrian (0627 Spinward Marches). -ld D

Abyss: Engulfing most of the Lanth/Spinward Marches subsector and extending into the Vilis and Lunion subsectors, the Abyss is a large area of low stellar denshy. It has been the site of several notable ship disappearances over the last half-millennium and has built up a substantial amount of lore associated with them. Only seven systems lie within the Abyss' boundaries. -dod MTJ 1

Acorn (2835 Diaspora C100400-F): On Acorn, Chirpers have long been a regular feature of the community. They live in a combination hydroponics park/preserve. -AGD

Adwuj: A slightly syrupy beverage, usually served heated, made from the fermented sap of several varieties of trees on Gaajpadje (1124 Reavers' Deep). The bitter-sweet flavor has often been described as a cross between licorice, cinnamon, and burnt wood. -rd TD 16

Aegzaeng: This was formerly an independent corsair group with a strong capability for ground operations. The band remained a distinct entity even after the Kforuzeng absorbed it in 1105, employing it as its chief ground arm. The Aegzaeng broke away again in 1114. Rather than piracy, most of their activities involve raids or legitimate mercenary work. -w&o V&V

Aeitle Sakh: The Aslan name for Reavers' Deep Sector. -rd TD 16

Aekhu: Language and cultural region in the Vargr Extents. Approximately follows the Imperial border, including Gvurrdon, Tuglikki, and Provence. Vargr were drawn here by this newer Imperial region around Deneb. Gvegh and Aekhu influences overlap in Gvurrdon Sector, while Aekhu and Ovaghoun cultures mix in Provence.

Attitudes along this frontier are marked by sharp contrasts regarding religion, morality, patriotism, violence, and honor. Inconsistency from world to world is about the only thing that is consistent. This region also differs strongly with the inner Vargr regions around Lair in that change is constant and real, consistently breaking from set patterns, and more than any other region.

Family bonds tend to have greater importance than pack bonds within the Aekhu region. Siblings (sukagrra) often maintain life-long associations, especially when they're littermates (kagrra). -cul V&V

Afinajo Fungus: The afinajo fungus, native to Buagki (1112 Corridor), reproduces by means of minute spores. The spores act as a powerful psychotropic agent on both humans and Vargr. Results are unpredictable and highly dependent upon the individual.

Afinajo spores have been put to many uses. SuSAG is currently attempting to synthesize a variant of the fungus' psychoactive compound. The megacorporation's goal is to produce a drug to combat mental illness.

Military agencies are rumored to use afinajo fungi in biological warfare. Illegal 'najo inhalers have been used for decades, to the annoyance of sector law enforcement personnel.

The Travellers' Aid Society found afinajo spores sufficiently dangerous to declare Buagki an amber zone. -cor TD 18

Air/Raft: Also known as a flier, the air/raft relies on solid state anti-grav modules for lift and propulsion. Four independent, individually replaceable modules insure a maximum of safety, in that each provides one-quarter of the vehicle's total lift. A standard air/raft masses about four tons, and can carry a payload of about four tons, including pilot and 3 passengers. Cruising speed is usually 100kph, with unlimited range and endurance. The normal air/raft is open-topped and subject to the effects of weather and climate.

The major drawbacks to the air/raft are its low load capacity, its relatively slow speed, and its susceptibility to weather (both the negative effects of bad weather on passengers and the slowing effects of high winds and buffeting).

Most air/rafts are capable of reaching orbit (occupants should wear vacc suits) but the trip will take several (6 to 12) hours). Most air/rafts can also be overloaded with passengers (a maximum of eight can fit with minimal comfort) so long as tonnage maximum is not exceeded. -ld TP

Airplant: One of a terraformers' best tools is a lichen native to Saandeth (1232 Core B130563-D) in Core Sector. Because of this purplish-black, spreading plant, very small desert worlds may have their atmosphere altered to become a thin but breathable atmosphere of nearly 100% oxygen.

Oxygen is frequently present in the soil of barren worlds, locked in chemical compounds. The airplant absorbs large quantities of solar energy, including ultraviolet and gamma rays, which power its enzyme systems and break the bonds of these compounds. If the planet's gravity is strong enough to hold the liberated oxygen near the surface, a light but adequate atmosphere builds up over the centuries.

To speed the terraforming process after introducing the plants, domed areas may be constructed to hold the oxygen in higher concentrations, allowing human settlement that much sooner. The smallest worlds rarely hold hydrogen in their formation, so is still non-existent in such places. But hydrogen can be brought in and burned in fuel cells, producing both energy and water for a colony.

On its home world, airplant is part of a small eco-system of bacteria and lichens which requires almost no water and derives what it needs from the breakdown of minerals. The population of Saandeth is clustered into a few dense population centers, leaving most of the surface undisturbed. -core TD 10

Akabar (3031 Gateway C76766B-9): Once part of the Renkard Union and now answering to the K'kree invaders, Akabar is ruled by Regulator paramilitary forces acting under orders from Silest.

K'kree vegetarian laws are strictly enforced, and K'kree naval forces frequently operate in-system. A stubborn guerrilla resistance continues to operate within the equatorial jungles of Akabar. -gat MTJ 4

Akeen (2708 Gateway B66A232-B): Capital of the Akeena Union, and homeworld of the minor non-human race known as the Akeed. A water world, Akeen possesses several large islands and numerous island chains, the home environment of the enigmatic alien culture. The Akeed themselves feed on minerals drawn directly from soil and water, and appear to be as happy living under the water as on the land. Though human contact with the Akeed occurs only on land or in space, it is believed that the race has an extensive marine culture. The extent of this culture, its tech level, and other accomplishments are unknown.

The population, government, law and tech level UWP codes refer to the human orbital colony called Sky, together with human enclaves on the planet's surface. The population of the Akeed is unknown, and their law and government systems are largely unintelligible to human observers. Their tech level, based on observations of their ship technology and electronics, is generally set at ten(A). They possess Jump-drive ships, but acquired them from humans early in the sector's history. -gat MTJ 4

Akeena Union: A group of eleven systems covering parts of the Denkard, Lowton, and Forcett subsectors of Gateway. -gat MTJ 4

Akerut: Wholly-owned subsidiary of Tukera Lines, organized to establish trade routes and shipping stations within the Aramis subsector. Akerut gains most of its revenue from cargo transport and trade within the subsector. Approximately 25% of its shipping involves transport of cargos to or from locations outside the subsector. -ld TA

Al Morai: Based on Mora, the merchant line Al Morai services the central portion of the Domain of Deneb. Established in 120 as a local transport company serving systems within ten parsecs of Mora, the company soon expanded to handle freight and passengers. During the third century imperial, the line established an exploration division to supplement its cargo carriers.

The Rebellion-era environment has provided Al Morai with many growth opportunities, making them one of the most prominent carriers in the Domain. The company's Route Protectors, a small fleet of privately commissioned Gazelle-class close escorts, have enabled them to maintain reliable service through troubled areas of space. -dod MTJ 1

Alaoyaah (1714 Dark Nebula B331758-A): Alaoyaah is tightly in the grasp of a feudal technocracy which might be better described as a technocratic oligarchy. The ruling body, the Ftaoeaktaih manufacturing cartel, holds the reins of every aspect of life on Alaoyaah. The world was first colonized by the cartel as a mining and manufacturing site, a venture which went extremely well.

Trouble cropped up a few years ago, when a number of Solomani humans were able to get appointments to the administrative board of the on-planet operations. Using their positions to gain inside information, these individuals were soon able to buy up the majority of the cartel's stock. From then on, they began to impose higher and higher quotas on their already overworked employees, forcing them to buy through a company store, and not permitting contact with other worlds in the Hierate. The bulk of the population on Alaoyaah are virtually slaves to the administrative board.

Because of the potential for labor riots, or even civil war, the Traveller's Aid Society has classified the Alaoyaah system an amber zone. -dn S&A

Aledon, Norris Aella: Since 1117, Archduke Norris has served as "provisional" ruler over the Domain of Deneb. Upon consolidation of his forces and territories, Norris stated that his position was one of loyalty to the Imperium. Though this is still his officially stated position, as time passes it becomes clear that Norris' directions and goals have to follow a unique path in order for the region to survive as an entity. Born as second son to the Duke of Regina, Norris was never expected to fill his father's position. Norris pined naval intelligence and served creditably until his brother's premature death. With his brother dead and father dying, Norris was forced to take on the responsibilities of the Duke of Regina.

His naval intelligence contacts allowed him to predict the Fifth Frontier War and appeal to the emperor for reinforcements in advance. When the tide of the war turned against the Imperium, he assumed control over the Imperial fleets and successfully turned back the tide. This victory brought him both political and popular support. In 1114, Emperor Strephon officially acknowledged Norris' outstanding actions during the Fifth Frontier War by elevating him to Archduke of Deneb. This made him the highest ranking noble on the spinward frontier.

A year after the news of Stephon's assassination reached Norris at Regina, the Domain of Deneb was cut off from the rest of the empire as the Vargr overran the Corridor sector. This event, combined with the obvious chaos occurring closer to the Imperial core, caused Norris to declare the Domain independent until such a time when the empire could peacefully reintegrate itself. His proclamation as provisional leader met with little resistance, as his popularity continues at high levels. -dod MTJ 1

Archduke of Deneb. Supported by many nobles in the Moot, Norris is highly respected for his very competent handling of the Fifth Frontier War and for his ability since Strephon's murder to keep intact an important border region of the Imperium. Because it would have been easy for Norris to declare independence for his territories, particularly since the so-called Restored Vilani Empire region now falls between the Domain of Deneb and the Imperial Core, Norris's loyalty and fidelity to the Imperium have attracted support for him from nobles. -emp IE

All Terrain Vehicle (ATV): The ATV is designed to provide high quality transport on any number of worlds. It can traverse all but the most forbidding terrain and is fully amphibious. The ATV's pressurized interior allows up to eight passengers living quarters with reasonable comfort for long periods of time. The ATV typically masses ten tons and can carry a payload of six tons, including the driver and seven passengers. Cruising speed depends on the terrain being travelled; roads can allow up to 100 kph, while cross country will rarely exceed 60 kph, and broken ground will keep speeds to 20 kph and under. Tracked ATVs are somewhat slower than wheeled versions, but are more reliable in difficult terrain.

An ATV may be powered by a battery charged from a ship's power plant, or it may contain a small fusion power pack requiring water or hydrogen for fuel. -ld B

The major drawbacks for the ATV are its refuelling requirements (with water or hydrogen, generally every 24 hours or so), its slowness in some terrain, and its bulk. -ld TP

Alphaaric (1133 Gateway A996220-F): An independent system in the Ariel subsector jointly managed by representatives of the Galian Federation and by the system's own native, nonhuman civilization, the Faar. The class-A starport designates the human construct known as Faarview, an orbital colony/station circling Mashan, the system's primary gas giant.

Alphaaric is inhabited by the Faar, a highly advanced civilization which, for various reasons, has never bothered to develop jump drive or to explore beyond its own world. Human studies of the Faar are continuing. In the meantime, a brisk and highly lucrative trade in high-tech electronics, novelties, and recreational devices continues between Galian traders and the Faar Domains. -gat MTJ 4

Altmac: Four different alcolholic beverages and one non-alcoholic are used for this cocktail, which is common in the Massilia/Zarushagar area. Served in a large glass, this drink is a transparent blue, contains carbonic acid and is despite its high alcolholic percentage quite refreshing. -cam MS

Amber Zone: Travellers Aid Society classification for a nation, world, or system which presents a need for caution in dealings and activity. The amber code may indicate chaos, upheaval, or xenophobia in local business, politics, society, or culture, or it may be applied for other reasons. Travellers should exercise caution.

Until recently, the Imperial Travellers' Aid Society considered all worlds within the Imperium safe unless specifically noted otherwise. With the recent fragmentation of the Imperium, the travel zone classification of worlds has been relegated to local branches of the Society.

The Domain of Deneb branch of TAS has classified worlds outside its borders as amber zones. Travellers are advised to exercise caution, especially in areas bordering Aslan space, Corridor Sector, the Vargr Extents, and the Solomani Rim.

See also Red Zone. -ld IE

Less severe than a Red Zone, which indicates interdiction, war, or quarantine. -ld TP

Amberinth (0527 Gateway C785897-A): A pleasant, Earth-like world originally reserved for the estates of many of the wealthier magnates of the early corporate days of the sector. Amberinth has recently been opened to wholesale colonization and exploitation, however. Continuing legal problems have hampered development in areas where the Dastri, a humanoid, non-human race still quard their territorial domains with stone-aqe weapons. -gat MTJ 4

Ameros (2008 Core B110542-G): About 50 years ago, the famous financial/banking megacorporation Hortalez et Cie, LIC underwrote one of the most ambitious terraforming projects to date in the Imperium on the world of Ameros.

The goal of the pilot project is to completely transform the surface of Ameros from a barren airless rock into a world with a thin atmosphere and a 10% hydrosphere in less than 100 years. If successful, the project will pave the way for comfortable colonization of otherwise inhospitable moons and planets.

The progress on Ameros so far has been disappointing: its atmosphere is only up to a trace level from its original vacuum state and its hydrosphere has been increased to a mere 2%, all of which is currently in the form of ice. Hortalez et Cie has expressed some concern over the dicouraging progress; the research team on the world has assured the banking firm that the project is actually closer to being on track than it appears. They contend the last 25% of a terraforming period is when the most dramatic results appear. -core TD 8

Amsa (0429 Lishun B220310-B): Makhidkarun retires its top executives to Amsa for their health. Domed parks surround the homes, where the low gravity prolongs life and makes activity easier. Servants and medical personnel serve two-year terms. -lis TD 7

Ancients: Highly intelligent race which gained prominence approximately 300,000 years ago.

Most of what is known about the Ancients has been gleaned from archeological excavations of Ancient sites: the remains of cities, bases, outposts, and settlements of the Ancients. Scientific dating techniques have established that a "Final War" spanning a 2000-year period destroyed virtually all of the Ancients at that time.

The influence of the Ancients is broadly felt in the universe. Humans from Terra were transported to many worlds by the Ancients; their descendants became the Vilani and the Zhodani, as well as the 46 known minor human races. The Vargr have been shown (through genetic testing) to be descendants of genetically manipulated Terran canines (apparently, the canine stock was acquired at the same time the humans were taken from Terra). Ancient artifacts which have been discovered show a very high tech level and an equally high degree of sophistication; such artifacts often reveal new, previously undiscovered or unexploited technologies.

The Ancients were responsible for several major features within the region now occupied by the Imperium. Their warfare resulted in the large proportion of asteroid belts throughout explored space. There is evidence they created the multiworld rosette at Tireen (Knaeleng 2910, in the Vargr extents). Scattered empty cities (most severely damaged by battle) stand as evidence of their wars; most, however, are restricted areas under investigation by the Imperium and not open to the public. One notable exception is the world Antiquity (Corridor 0816). The Antiquity Ancients site is open to tourists: its fascinating museum displays many wondrous and mystifying artifacts. many of which are still in working condition. -ld IE

The Shionthy (2306 Spinward Marches) Asteroid Belt is believed to have been formed during one unusually intense battle between Ancient forces. Reports indicate that other Ancient sites within the Regina subsector are currently being excavated, both by official expeditions and clandestinely by treasure hunters. -ld Kin

See also Humaniti, Solomani Hypothesis. -ld IE

Name given to a race of intelligent beings who inhabited various regions of this portion of the galaxy approximately 300,000 years ago.

Specific evidence of the Ancients is rare, and is almost always found in the form of ruins or destruction. -ld SotA

Anderson (1519 Gateway CCC1210-B): A research station in orbit around Anderson's World, a deadly high-gravity planet with an atmosphere of fluorine and chlorine compounds and seas of hydrofluoric acid. Its primary commercial use is as a way station on jump routes from the Galian Federation to the Plavian League and other destinations to trailing. Galeoceuticals Incorporated has reported completion of preliminary tests aimed at establishing robotic chemical plants on antigravity platforms within the exotic atmosphere of Anderson's World. -gat MTJ 4

Anderson, Gege (1071-): Famous holovid director born on Lendining (2621 Massilia) 215-1071. After attending the holovid directors school on Lendining, Anderson began as an assistant to various local directors. He had his debut in 1098 with a Party like nothing else, which won much critical acclaim. Other works include Dry Ground (1100), the Tourniquet (1102), the Adimigli Revelation (1105) and Lowers Find Again (1112).

A special place in the works of Anderson is reserved for Hivernation (1115), which won the Golden Trinary at the Dasmasueg holovid festival on Folquette (1028 Core) in 1116. The holovid is based on a manuscript by Greindahl - a Hiver living on Anaxias (1724 Delphi) - and is widely believed to be one of the most convoluted plots ever concieved. Hivernation is about a group of humans who are frozen by some Hivers, because the hivers are curious about suspended animation. When the humans later wake up, they believe themselves to be moved in time and place, until one of them discover that they have only been led to believe this. This turns out to be wrong, and from here the plot is a chinese box of assumptions, and the characters involved has to ask themselves, if they just want to believe, or if they want to know the truth.

Andersons style is fairly no-nonsensical with little room for sentiment or humor. Although he's never been much loved by the general public, critics and intellectuals all over the Imperium and beyond has proclaimed him to be the greatest living holovid director in the Imperium. -cam MS

Andory (0236 Spinward Marches C695735-9): Prime candidate for Droyne homeworld. Discovered in 802 and placed under interdiction (red travel zone) by Imperial Interstellar Scout Service. -ld IE

Anglic: The official language of the Third Imperium. A distant descendent of Terran English, Anglic was the language of the Rule of Man ( -2294 to -1776). Anglic remained a common interstellar language for trade and commerce during the Long Night. Its widespread use on the original worlds of the Third Imperium made it the natural language when the Imperium was established.

On many worlds, Anglic is only a second language used for system traffic control, commercial operations, and interstellar communications. Anglic is sometimes called Galanglic (for Galactic Anglic).

The Imperium has not been able to prevent the emergence of a wide variety of Anglic dialects. Interstellar communications, holocrystals, and recordings help to spread a uniform pronunciation of Anglic throughout the entire Imperium. Within the Imperium, any Anglic speaker can understand almost any other, but isolated communities on worlds with little contact with the interstellar trade lanes shift their speech patterns to form dialects. In addition, broad areas within the Imperium have established their own pronunciation patterns; accepted dialects include Rim (which includes Terra), Core (the central region of the Imperium), Riftian (the spinward frontiers), and Transform (the Antares region). -ld IE

Anguistus: Oldest issue of Porfiria. Born in 246, proclaimed emperor by the Moot in 326, died in 365. -emp IE

Anola (Anola grevii): An arboreal omnivore native to Pysadi (3008 Spinward Marchers) in the Spinward Marches, occurring nowhere else in the wild or in captivity. Anolas are considered holy by the Mother Church of Pysadi. Their export, capture, or study by any but those high in the religious hierarchy is banned. They are kept in special, heavily-guarded garden preserves and are cared for by specially appointed keepers. Killing one of these animals is a capital offense. Although anolas are occasionally encountered in the wild on Pysadi, those close to civilized areas have been taken into the preserves.

Anolas mass an average of 3 kilograms, and are usually between 50 and 75 centimeters in length, including their two prehensile tails. Since anolas were known only from poorly preserved pelts smuggled off-planet, for many years there were thought to be three species, but as more complete specimens became available, it was determined that the three different types were only different sexual , phases of one species.

Respiration is accomplished by paired lungs in the upper chest cavity. The circulatory system is closed, with a pair of two chambered hearts moving the blood. Gas exchange is typical, making use of an iron-based hemoglobin. Details of the neuro-muscular system and the digestive system are not presently available. Anolas are now known to be hermaphroditic, and the three phases are stages in sexual development. Upon reaching maturity, an anola's male system becomes active, the female system remaining dormant. Under certain conditions, the male system degenerates, glands for the nourishment of the young develop, and the male becomes a neuter, or parental. Under certain conditions, the female system of a parental will activate, and the individual becomes a female. Little is known for certain about the details of the reproductive cycle, but the following is currently the accepted sequence of events.

Anolas live in small groups. Five adults is the average size, one male, three parentals of varying ages and one female. Females mate soon after assuming the female phase, and soon bear a litter of three cubs. The birth process is hard, and she is quite weakened from the ordeal for about three months afterward. With each successive litter, the females become weaker, and few survive their third.

When the female dies, it appears that the lack of a certain pheromone triggers the female organs in the oldest neuter into activity, and that neuter becomes female within a few weeks. The change in proportion of the parental pheromones causes the male to become a parental. The group then seeks out a new male as rapidly as possible.

Each phase (male, female, and neuter) has its own distinct pattern of fur coloration, density, and length, caused by hormone changes associated with the shift in sex.

Several universities, zoos, and xenobiological institutes have offered substantial rewards for live anolas. Wealthy animal collectors are reported to offer as much as Cr7,000,000 for a breeding group (five adults, as outlined above). -ld TA

Anomaly Five (0615 Deneb X100000-5): Red Zone. A Scout team first discovered the enigma hidden here in the early 400s. While helping to compile the First Survey, Lidia Besant's geological team detected the enormous mass concentrations which lurk deep beneath the moon's surface. The phenomenon would have been strange enough if the small satellite had had a molten core. These masses, however, lay within a ball of cold, inactive rock. The geological knowledge of the day offered no explanation, and Besant put the moon on the IISS's list of survey anomalies.

Today, more than 700 years later, geologists still cannot explain the presence of these mass concentrations, which have been the subject of much speculation. The popular media have always been quick to point the finger at the super-technological Ancients. The Imperial Navy favored a slightly more scientific hypothesis, however - one which identified the masses as deposits of superheavy elements - and consequently interdicted the system in 690. The Navy consistently denies reports of any secret research being conducted insystem. -den TD 19

Anselhome (0820 Spinward Marches C110588-8): A large asteroid which attracted colonists because of its wealth of ores. Living quarters are hollowed into the rock. Some of the atmosphere for the underground habitats is processed from the gasses put out by Anselhome's volcanoes. The only native life (whose existence amazed some scientists) are bacteria and lichens in the low-lying valleys. -ld D

Ansing Expedition: Famous exploration of the accessible reaches of the gas giant Annikkittar in the Pretoria system in 870 to 884. Extensive use of specially designed exploration vessels, protective environment suits, and high technology equipment allowed the Ansing Foundation of Vland to extensively map and explore the upper reaches of the gas giant's atmosphere. -ld IE -ld SotA

Ansirk (1609 Deneb A100100-F): Some 20 Naval personnel on Ansirk undertake small starship design and construction; several are test pilots. Another 20 to 30 provide basic facilities for the inhabitants and for civilian travellers. The economy is supported by a vast store of refined fuel, scooped and refined from the gas giant which Ansirk orbits. The Navy uses the system for test maneuvers - their presence discourages pirates. Security robots are commonly armed with FGMP-15s and other efficient weapons. -den TD 19

Answerin (0431 Vland B584A85-F): The minor human race of Answerin holds fear of any kind to be a disease of the mind, and Answerin's psychiatrists have eftective techniques for eradicating all anxiety from the populace.

The principal diagnostic tool for this is a portable device which detects anxiety, by analyzing thoughts and body functions.

The device's use borders too closely on psionic practices to allow it free export to the rest of the Imperium, but illegal copies are sometimes smuggled out.

When necessary, natives of Answerin can produce an adrenalin reaction in their bodies, which gives them temporary superhuman strength and dexterity. Mercenaries from Answerin command premium prices for service.

The restored Vilani Empire is using Answerin mercenaries in increasing numbers to augment elite ships' troops and jump troops units. -vla V&V

Antares: Trailing region of the Third Imperium. The name Antares is applied to a variety of places at the trailing fringe of the Imperium. Antares is a domain of the Imperium, a sector within that domain, and the capital of that sector. -ld IE

Antares, League of: The League of Antares (although it does not include the Antares system) is an autonomous region within the Imperium. The worlds were originally pressed into the Imperium in 89 during the Antarean Pacification Campaign. The worlds were occupied by the Julian Protectorate during the Julian War. When regained for the Imperium at the end of that war, the peace terms included a mandate that the League of Antares be given limited autonomy for control of trade, commerce, and internal affairs.

The autonomy of the League of Antares served as a model for the later establishment of the Solomani Autonomous Region. -ld IE

Antebellum: Literally, before the war. General historical term referring to the period within the Imperium before the Civil War, specifically 210 to 604.

The antebellum period was characterized by expansion of the Imperium with large-scale colonization efforts, integration of numerous regions into Imperial society, and an overall mood of growth and exploration. With the end of the antebellum period, the Imperium turned more attention inward and devoted resources to internal development and consolidation. -ld IE

Anther (2021 Core A300697-E): Anther's government is another inefficient bureaucracy, but the world's landscape is an attractive one. Tall towers shoot up from the ground, and then at heights anywhere from 30 to 100 meters up they spread out like mushrooms, drooping down toward the ground. Over time, the structures eventually do reach the ground, forming an enclosed dome under which terraforming can be performed.

On some towers, several domes spread out from different levels, creating concentric circles on the ground. Different areas of a complex can thus be used for different purposes, with farming in one, manufacturing in another, and recreation in a third. Since livable ground under the domes are precious, many inhabitants still live under the towers themselves, or in the attached "ceilings" of the domes. -core TD 10

Anti-Rukh Coalition (Gnoerrgh Rukh Loell): Vargr grouping in Gvurrdon sector. The Coalition has never bothered much with the human governments nearby. Its sole desire has been the overthrow of the Rukh government. The Imperium and the Zhodani Consulate have rarely figured in the Coalition's plans.

Remarkably, the Coalition's goals have not changed with the isolation of Deneb, although the Coalition is worried by the improvement in Zhodani-Denebian relations. As the Zhodani support the Rukh, the Coalition fears the Domain will enter into some sort of trilateral alliance. It is possible that Coalition agents are working secretly to disrupt the Zhodani-Denebian peace, even while they continue to plot directly against the Rukh. -sidebar MTJ 2

Antiquity (0806 Corridor A223420-C): One of the best preserved Ancient sites in existence. Discovered in 385, the site is unique in that many parts of it are still operational. The biggest problem faced by researchers has been figuring out what things did and how they worked. Many items are still a mystery. -ld IE

Aosta (0332 Deneb A669236-C): Empress Nicholle declared Aosta an Imperial Reserve world in late 474, as one of her Iast official acts. Aosta is nearly a water world; a global ocean spans nine-tenths of the world's surface, punctuated only by scattered archipelagoes. Within these seas, Aosta sports an incredibly diverse abundance of life.

As this is the only reserve world to concentrate on the sea, marine biologists and oceanographers travel to Aosta from far across the Imperium. These visitors are housed in self-supporting space habitats; no permanent structures are allowed on the planet itself. The local College of Marine Studies fully occupies one of these habitats, providing a center for research and education.

At any one time, multiple research parties are actively engaged in undersea operations. Advanced submersible craft ply the world's oceans, sometimes even diving to the depths of the oceanic trenches. Researchers take special care not to disturb the local wildlife, however. -den TD 19

Aoukeiwar (2306 Riftspan Reaches A0000G3-C): Aoukeiwar is a system thoroughly isolated by the Great Rift. Its nearest interstellar neighbor is Iktaitlow (1801 Riftspan Reaches E5666M7-A), seven parsecs away. Deep space fuel caches or other roundabout means are necessary to make the crossing.

The system is so remote that it remains unclaimed by any Aslan clan. Reiosahkirl, a sector-wide mining corporation, secured ownership of the system in 3297 Aslan (807 Imperial). The company's engineers hollowed out a small asteroid, which has since served as a base for the belt's few prospectors.

Reiosahkirl maintains a permanent staff insystem, but the majority of belters are transients, periodically shipped in by the company. The visitors are given free transportation to and from Aoukeiwar, but Reiosahkirl receives a substantial portion of their profits. -rr TD 19

Apostles of Clarke's Law, The: The Apostles trace their faith back to the Interstellar Wars, when a group of military researchers who were fleeing forced labor decided to found a colony on Oppenheimer (2138 Neworld A5909A9-E). The scientists dedicated their new home to the peaceful pursuit of advanced technology. Oppenheimer was sacked during the Long Night, but the scientists managed to preserve remnants of their science. Regarded with awe by the struggling population, they came to fill a priestly role.

In the centuries since, the tech-priest Apostles have absorbed much new technology, and they preach that advancements in such sciences are a way of reaffirming the Godhead within all men. They have been found proselytizing about the Sphere, bringing religiously-shrouded technology to low-tech worlds. There have been reports of Apostles being lynched on Sanctaterrists worlds, and they are in constant, violent conflict with the Society for the Sovereignty of Man over Machine (SSMM). The Apostles of Clarke's Law worship their tools and always recite prayers over them before performing any technical task. -rel S&A

Aramis Subsector: Subsector D of the Spinward Marhces. Aramis subsector is a major agricultural producer in the Marches; much of its produce is exported to the Vargr Extents. The Imperial Interstellar Scout Service maintains several trading stations to facilitate trade and contact with the Vargr.

Zila (2908 Spinward Marches E25672C-7) is an agricultural world known for its wineries.

Pysadi (3008 Spinward Marches C4766D7-4) is an agricultural world under the rule of a religious dictatorship. It has a fine reputation for its commodities, especially its fruits.

Junidy (3202 Spinward Marches B434ABD-9) is the homeworld of the Llellewyloly: a race whose five limps function as both hands and feet. The Llellewyloly have a complex society with many dimensions of social precedence; the same individual may be entitled to high status in one situation and low status in another, and to make an error in propriety is a serious matter. -spin SMC

Arbellatra: First of the Alkhalikoi Dynasty (and occasionally considered to be the 18th of the Emperors of the Flag). Born in 587, served as Grand Admiral of the Marches and led the defeat of the Out-World Coalition in the Second Frontier War (615 to 620). Arbellatra returned to the Imperial Core and defeated the remnants of the Central Fleet under Gustus in the Second Battle of Zhimaway (622). Proclaimed regent by the Moot in 622 pending the location of a suitable surviving heir to the throne. Proclaimed empress by the Moot in 629. Died in 666. Built the Grand Imperial Palace, a magnificent sphere one kilometer in diameter, which floated one-half a kilometer above the landscape of the Imperial Park on Capital. -emp IE

Arden, Federation of: The independent, human-inhabited state of the Federation of Arden consists of Arden (1011 Spinward Marches) and six other star systems. Arden is controlled by the Arden Society, a small group of dedicated individuals who become members through financial or labor contributions. The government is extremely repressive. In the years since the close of the Fifth Frontier War, the Federation has pursued expansionistic policies which have not been looked upon favorably by the Domain. -dod MTJ 1

Argent Mining Inc: Administered from Chou (0210 Magyar), Argent Mining is a member of the Wuan Technology Association. The firm maintains mining and refining operations thoughout Magyar and Dark Nebula Sectors. Occasionally, Argent employs tailored human clones or androids for operations in hostile environments or when a labor force for an important project is needed quickly.

The company's birth-labs produce humans of specific genotypes to perform as Workers, Managers, Clerks, and other functions. The clones are raised in corporate creches and receive education through deep-psych tape-study. These tapes provide a psychological structure for their recipients - the clones will only be happy doing the work they were designed to do. This guarantees a productive work force, but unfortunately, such populations are not terribly effective at responding to new circumstances. -solbiz S&A

Arkhaala: Dessert belonging to the Vland sector haute cuisine. Not entirely Vilani in principle, this sweet is much inspired by Solomani desserts. Nonetheless, Arkhaala is rarely found outside Vland sector.

A bowl of braided crispy dough-straws contains a thin layer of a sweet jelly, which keeps a sour-sweet cold cream inside the bowl. A layer of fruit is placed on top. -cam MS

Arrilla (0112 Massilia E-585448-6): Visitors to Arrilla often report that the Arrillans are too easygoing, making them a joy to visit, but frustrating as business partners. Their planet is a kindly one, with moderate temperatures over much of its surface and plentiful resources. As a result, its people feel little urgency about acquiring more goods to make life comfortable, and they are quite satisfied at their low Tech Level. The mountains of the large continent contain rich deposits of minerals and crystals, but few natives can be stirred to mine them out for trade. Foreign investment would be possible, but one would need to import workers as well as equipment: Local labor tends to take holidays whenever the mood strikes. All told, the planet is a tourist's delight, often recommended by doctors for the cure of stress-related ailments. -mas TD 11

When Strephon was assassinated in 1116, Arrilla sided with Lucan without a fight and continues to claim loyalty to Lucan to this day. -mas K

Artemsus: First of the Lentuli Dynasty. Born in -17, proclaimed emperor by the Moot in 54, died in 166 at the age of 183, demonstrating the natural longevity of the Lentuli line. Artemsus established the domains and instituted the Pacification Campaigns (76 to 120) to bring the historical territories of the First and Second Imperia into the Third Imperium.

The Solomani Hypothesis (that the humans of the galaxy are all descended from one genetic stock, spread by some ancient race for reasons unknown; and that the source of that stock was Terra of Sol) was proposed in 114 and received immediate, although somewhat disinterested, acceptance. -emp IE

Artifact: Any manufactured object. The term artifact is commonly used to refer to any object, item, or group of related items produced by the Ancients. -ld IE -ld SotA -ld TP

Asena (3022 Diaspora C354855-C): Asena has for centuries maintained a rigid social structure, stratified by age. This gerontocracy is advantageous to many Asenans, but stifles off-world trade. While hard-liners refuse to soften Asena's traditions, Asenan liberals agitate for at least moderation in the property and exchange laws to attract much-needed trade. -AGD

Ashki (0110 Lishun A89A533-D): Ashki is a water world, the home of the so-called electric algae, which are neither algae nor normally electric. They are scavenging amoebae with a blue-green pigment; its function is quite different from chlorophyll. In stormy weather the copper-based pigment collects static charges as lightning strikes the water. When charged, the amoebae group themselves into colonies of many strange shapes, held together by intertwining of the individual cells' cilia. The tendrils of these colonies shock fish with accumulated charges and thereby enrich the feeding ground of decaying matter on the shallow sea floors where the amoebae live. -lis TD 6

Aslan: The Aslan are a race of intelligent beings with an established interstellar empire spinward and rimward of the Imperium; in addition, large numbers have settled within the Imperium.

Aslan stand roughly human-sized, averaging 2.0 meters in height and weighing about 100 kg. They are descended from four-limbed, upright, bipedal carnivore/pouncer stock originally adapted to a solitary arboreal existence.

The earliest Terran explorers saw in them a vague resemblance to the Terran lion, and they have been described (by Terrans) as lion-like ever since, although there is very little true similarity. The derivation of the word Aslan is unknown. There are two sexes, male and female. The most notable external difference is the increased size and mane of the former. Females outnumber males by 3:1.

Aslan have a single highly specialized dewclaw under each thumb which folds back jacknife fashion into a horny covering in the base of the thumb and palm.

A vast Aslan-dominated empire (the Aslan Hierate) lies far to rimward, but Aslan themselves have ranged well beyond its borders, with many settling within the Imperium and attaining full status as citizens. As citizens, they subordinate themselves to Imperial authority, although they have remained culturally separated from human society. Aslan serve in the Imperial armed forces; they achieve nobility; they pay taxes; they run businesses.

Aslan Society: The Aslan are a warrior race, proud, noble, and devoted to those in authority above them. An individual Aslan is usually a member of a family of from 2 to 12 individuals under a patriarchal leader. Several families will combine into a pride with one family dominant. A number of prides form a clan, again with a top pride. Aside from military organizations and the ruling council (within the Hierate), the clan is the highest social-political organization among the Aslan.

A deep-seated territorial instinct causes the Aslan to have an inordinate (from a human standpoint) concern with land. For male Aslan, owning land is a major goal in life. An Aslan's stature is determined by the amount of land he (or her husband) controls, or by the amount of land owned by any higher lord the Aslan may be vassal to. The lowest classes of Aslan are landless, and provide the farmers, laborers, craftsmen, and factory workers. A holder of a large territory will often grant authority over it to vassals (usually sons, brothers, or male relatives by marriage) who administer the land in his name

The sexes have very different roles in Aslan society. Males (in all but the lowest classes) are concerned mostly with military) operations, acquisition of territory, and political affairs. Females are concerned with trade, industry, and the accumulation of knowledge. Upper class males have little conception of money and are literally incapable of functioning in a technological society without aid, so they are thus seldom encountered without the supervision of a wife, mother, or other female relative or employer.

For instance, a typical Aslan mercenary unit will be organized by a wealthy married female, who will then assign its operation, for a share of the proceeds, to an unmarried female relative. The battle commander and most of the troops will be unmarried males (many of them also relatives) hired with the promise of land grants (and the opportunity to gain honor and reputation in combat); however, staff, operations, supply, and intelligence officers will generally be female.

The extremely deadly nature of any combat between Aslan has led to a rigid, ritualized pattern of behavior designed to reduce conflict. Aslan are very polite, and while most have learned to be patient with non-Aslan, accidental fights still occur. Disputes between individuals are handled by the patriarchs; disputes between families are handled by the pride leader; disputes between prides are handled by the clan leader.

Aslan Calendar: The Aslan calendar is based on the period of Kuzu (the Aslan homeworld) around Tyeyo, its star. The Aslan ftahea (year) is 319.98 standard days in length.