|
Master Index |
---|
World Summary Library Data Index |
The natives, the Shi'awei, are a race of bulky aquatic sentients who live near geothermal vents in the sea floor. In appearance, they are bulky, bullet-shaped creatures with four evenly spaced arms. The heat given off by the vents supports their life cycle and affords an opportunity for rudimentary metalworking. Thus, the Shi'awei have been able to progress slowly to tech level 1 despite the rigors of their environment.
The IISS had long been aware of the Shi'awei, but the Scouts judged them unready for contact and interdicted the system. The interdiction was broken in 1073 when the Arean Transport starliner Ishgarlu misjumped and crashed in Chaosheo's oceans. IISS observers watched as the Shi'awei explored the wreck, encountering several live humans in the process. The Scouts were forced to step in.
Since 1073, a simple landing facility has been built for
incoming starships; Chaosheo's travel code has been upgraded from Red
to Amber. Trade with the Shi'awei is limited, but the Scouts have been
busy learning more about the biology and sociology of Chaosheo's fascinating
inhabitants. -den TD 19