The Black Rope Issue 1

THE BLACK ROPE
The official newsletter of KAG’s Imperial Xeno Legion
Holidays 2011

 

BIOVARIETATE CONCORDIA
Unity in Biodiversity

Welcome to the first issue of The Black Rope. This is KAG’s Imperial Xeno Legion’s official newsletter. The Xeno Legion was launched in 1996, seven years after the Klingon Assault Group was founded. The IXL is a portal for Alien mercenaries to join in battle with the Klingons in support of the Klingon Empire. Since its formation the IXL has had a glorious history within KAG. The Black Rope will be a vehicle for information dissemination useful and interesting to all Aliens within the IXL. Future issues will continue to sing the praises of the IXL (and have a lot more pictures) as we battle alongside our Klingon brothers.

Within this newsletter you will find a message from Thought Admiral Krikor. The current Legate, IXL Colonel Keela, aka 001 of Unimatrix 828 (Borg) and her XO, Aviendha Rhuidean (Shapeshifter) have submitted articles. There are also previously archived transmissions from former Legates IXL Lt. Col. Leisl Dax (Trill) and Admiral KwISt zantai-XuDetlh (Shapeshifter). Some of you old-timers remember the documents in their entirety, however, they have been edited for portions that are applicable today.

And for you completely science-minded Aliens, a reprint is included of IXL Lt. Mirodon Telc’s (Trill) highly scientific article (not light reading, but very interesting) on the Common Origin Theoryespecially as it pertains to the Voth (sentient dinosaurs whose discovery was covertly acquired from Voyager‘s data logs). Other Telc articles will follow in upcoming issues. Perhaps your species will be highlighted!

Each article within The Black Rope has much to offer to teach the Alien Mercenary within the Imperial Xeno Legion. More pictures in the next issue. Submissions wanted! Send to [email protected].

Meanwhile, enjoy!

Table of Contents:
From the Thought Admiral of KAG
From the Current CO of the IXL, Keela
From the XO of the IXL, Aviendha
About the 1st IXL CO, Klag
From the 2nd IXL CO, Liesl Dax
From the 3rd IXL CO, KwISt
XenoArchaeology

 

From the Thought Admiral of KAG

Hail Alien Warriors of KAG’s Imperial Xeno Legion.

I am Thought Admiral Krikor epetai-jechwI’ (Krikor Ajemian). I am the leader of the Klingon Assault Group, but what many in the Navy and Marines do not realize is that I worked my way to the top largely via the Imperial Xeno Legion. Like many of House jechwI’ (“disguisers”), I am a cellular metamorph, that is to say, a Klingon who has learned the technique of cellular metamorphosis from the Antosians (the same race that taught it to the infamous Fleet Captain Garth).

Members of House jechwI’ have learned to balance the power of the technique for mimicry against the unfortunate side effects (madness).  Unlike Garth, we can only mimic races, not individuals, and it takes longer to transform from one shape to another.  But on the bright side, we’re hardly megalomaniacal at all (especially compared to other Klingons).

Members of my House were involved in the project to introduce Augment DNA into the Klingon race.  Due to the unfortunate consequences of that project (including but not limited to the failures of missions at Sherman’s Planet and Capella), we have a particular dislike of Earthers, and will not associate with them at any cost.

Other aliens, however, are much favored for the strengths they can bring to the Klingon Assault Group.  We have Borg, Andorians, even Gorn.  Each brings their own special attributes to further the cause of the Imperial Xeno Legion, and ultimately the Klingon Assault Group.

I welcome you all to service in the Klingon Empire. Qapla’!

Thought Admiral Krikor
AKA Praetor Rakaar of Romulus
AKA Legate Viken of Cardassia
AKA General Kiro Jemen of Bajor
AKA I-KILL-NOW of Janus VI
AKA Boss Kryxo of Iotia
AKA … well, you get the idea


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From the Current CO of the IXL, Keela


Many of KAG’s new IXL members have seen the Aliens within KAG and wanted to do the same thing. Or the new recruits know from the beginning that they want to be a Borg or a Vulcan. According to the KAG Guidelines, a non-uniformed Warrior (Alien or Klingon) will enter KAG as a Lance Corporal. If they remain non-uniformed, but still continue to serve within KAG, there are three more ranks that they can be promoted to: Corporal, Sergeant and Master Sergeant. There are no designations in front of these ranks to distinguish the Alien Warriors from Klingon Warriors (either Navy or Marine).

However, KAG is about showmanship, and all new recruits are encouraged to begin working on a uniform as soon as possible. The IXL member can build a Klingon uniform, build a uniform typical of their species, or build something different, but still intergalactic. Once the IXL crewperson has a uniform, they are elevated in rank to commissioned officer status.

The IXL rank designations are patterned after KAG’s Marine rank designations. The first commissioned officer rank is IXL Lt. <insert name here> tai (tai is an honorific; yes Aliens may receive honorifics). IXL is the official rank designation (according to the KAG Guidelines), but it had often been shortened informally to just an L (and called Legionnaire), such as L Lt. tai. Notice there is no period after “L” so as to differentiate it from ranks such as L. Colonel. (Lieutenant Colonel).

The second commissioned rank is IXL Captain vestai; the third is IXL Major (vestai, sutai); the fourth is IXL Lt. Colonel (sutai); the fifth is IXL Colonel (sutai, zantai) and the sixth and final rank is IXL General (zantai). For information on qualifications to reach these ranks, go to the KAG Guidelines, Ranks and Honorifics section, at www.kag.org

The IXL Division pin looks like this. This is KwISt’s bronze division pin. I am planning on constructing these of a less expensive material and making them available to all IXL members who wish to wear one. You can also make your own. Mine will have a green background with the trim and letter painted in silver or gold as preferred. Remember, all KAG members need to try to obtain a KAG patch so that they are readily identifiable as members of the Klingon Assault Group. Nitestar makes these. Their contact information is on the Resources page of the MindScanner. I want to get a KAG patch with a green background for my Borg outfit.

Don’t forget to join the IXL Yahoogroup at http://ca.groups.yahoo.com/group/kag_ixl/ AND join the Imperial Xeno Legion Group Facebook page to stay connected with fellow Aliens!

This is a lot of information to absorb, so please read and re-read this issue to get the maximum understanding on all the STUFF you’ve been reading. More next issue!

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From the XO of the IXL, Aviendha


Aviendha Rhuidean, Shapeshifter, has served as the Vice Legate of KAG’s Imperial Xeno Legion since Liesl Dax’s administration. She served admirably under KwISt and continues to do the same for Keela. She also serves as the IXL-CTF Liaison and is the CO of the IKV HovmobwI’. Aviendha originally was a desert-dwelling humanoid, adept at the martial arts of her species. She was also a skilled hand-weapons fighter. She was assimilated by a cloud-like Shapeshifter and thereby “inherited” her shapeshifting ability. Kitiara Rasmehlier, a Klingon-Betazoid fusion was also assimilated by the same cloud-like Shapeshifter. Fused together forever, Aviendha and/or Kitiara appears as needed to bring her special skills to bear to fight for the Klingon Empire.

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About the 1st IXL CO, Klag


Adapted from the Klag article in Mindscanner # 63 with Kerla’s input.

Admiral Klag zantai-Kurkura (Mike Orock), “Hammer of God” to Thought-Admiral Kris epetai-Kurkura, started the Xeno Legion in KAG and was the first Xeno-Legion Commander. KwISt was his first recruit. While others “played” Klingon, Klag WAS Klingon – which earned him the well-deserved title of “Klag The Tyrant.” He was also the KAG Quartermaster, put together the first Quartermaster files, was the CO of Cold Terror Fleet, and was Kris’s first Deputy Commander of KAG, second in command of the club. Many of his innovations, such as the KAG insignia, are still in use today. In the late 90’s Klag left KAG, and started the club called “The Empire (TE).”

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From the 2nd IXL CO, Liesl Dax


Adapted from the May 21, 2001 transmission from
IXL Lt. Col. Liesl Dax, aka Tina Burns, CO of the IXL

“Not all of us are fortunate enough to be born into the Klingon Empire. Some of us earn it the hard way. If you’re a Klingon, and yet wish to be something more . . . . If you’re not about to be Klingon, but wish to share in their glory . . . . If you’re another one of us with multiple personalities for every occasion . . . then the Imperial Xeno Legion is for YOU!” (Joel “Twisty” Nye, Propaganda Officer)

There are those who have asked: what is the Imperial Xeno Legion? What is our purpose in KAG? Where does the Imperial Xeno Legion fit in with the grand scheme of things? What considered acceptable for the IXL? These are only a few of the questions that are asked. I will try to bring to light the true meaning of the IXL. [At right, Liesl disguised as a Jem Ha’dar]

Let’s start with how the IXL got started. The IXL was founded by the Klingon Empire to maintain and secure its planetary holdings. Another way to look at the IXL is that it is the Foreign Legion for the Klingon Empire. The IXL maintained the holdings and defended them, while the front line troops (the defense forces) went on to expand the Empire. It was long after the IXL was founded that its role in the Klingon Empire began to change. The IXL was placed under the Klingon defense forces, and fought on the front lines with their fellow Klingon warriors. The IXL is made up of alien mercenaries that have come from various backgrounds . . . .

More often than not a Legionnaire is a professional warrior that prefers fighting with the Legion to serving peacetime duty with their own defense force. It is this type of fighting spirit for which the Legion is known and the tlhegh qij (black rope), which a Legionnaire wears on his left shoulder, further symbolizes that spirit. This black rope symbolizes the Black Fleet and the Legionnaires’ desire to serve that fleet in the afterlife, where they may defeat their enemies again and again.

Now for a bit of reality, the main purpose of KAG’s IXL is to have FUN. The IXL is open to both those who are current members of KAG and to new members. If a current member of KAG wishes to become a Legionnaire, and completes a new uniform and make-up of another alien other than Klingon, that member enters the Legion at the rank equivalent to that member’s rank. . . .

The first step in joining the IXL is to figure out what type of alien you want to be. Anyone who joins the IXL is expected to actively portray an alien and to pursue the completion of an associated uniform. What type of uniform should be used? If the race of your choosing has a type of armor or clothing particular to them, then you are encouraged to take that route. If the alien does not have a uniform, the Klingon armor is acceptable.

What does the IXL consider as alien? Alien is anything that is not Klingon and does not look HUMAN (which means that there is some make-up that is required, even if it is a case of the Trill measles or simple Bajoran nose piece placed on your nose, earring optional). [Note from Keela: Betazoids, Q, and other huMan appearing aliens, etc. are examined on a case-by-case basis by the Legate of the IXL.] The aliens can come from any science fiction movie, TV show, role-playing game with pictures available, and computer games (anything that has been seen in the visual media).

Yes, my fellow prospective Legionnaires, you could be a Jawa, a Wookie, a Narn, a Kazon, a Magog, or a Martian from the movie Mars Attacks! Did you want to be a Jedi? Yes, you can, as long as you choose a specific alien species, and not human. A Jedi is an occupation, and not an alien race.

You want to dress up as a Zentradi, from RoboTech TV series? Sure! Paint yourself blue and let’s go. Or want to be a Clan Warrior from Battletech? Go for it. As long as you are willing to build the outfit and you don’t look human. Anything is fair game, as long as it is sci-fi (not fantasy). There will be those exceptions to the guidelines of no fantasy. I realize that there are several futuristic science-fiction role-playing games that incorporate trolls, elves, gnomes, Minotaurs, and even ogres. If you are willing to put the work in to the alien character and do the make-up, send a brief description of how your fantasy alien character fits into the science fiction world and send a picture of yourself to the CO of the IXL for approval . . . .[Note from Keela: approved on a case-by-case basis]

Now you see all the possibilities that are opened up to new and old members of KAG. How many Babylon 5, Battlestar Galactica, or even Andromeda, do you know of that are active, and take part in as many events as KAG? Well KAG has the IXL, which is sort of an umbrella for these fans. This helps broaden our horizons for the organization.

In the broadening of our horizons, the IXL also encourages every individual to work out new costuming techniques. With the various aliens that have appeared in the visual media, you can always find some type of alien to create that hasn’t appeared yet in fandom. Do you feel up to the challenge of creating a predator from the movie Predator; a Magog from the TV seriesAndromeda; or a Wookie from Star Wars?

. . . . The IXL can offer the diversity of backgrounds to help each other to foster creativity. I strongly encourage ship commanders to include the idea of the Xeno Legion in their recruiting efforts . . . . Who knows what type of surprise you will find roaming your corridors . . . or area of space.

So much for keeping the concept of the IXL simple, but I hope that this summary update helps clear some of the confusion with the ship, quadrant, and fleet commanders. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the current Legate of the IXL.

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From the 3rd IXL CO, KwISt


Adapted from the IXL article in Mindscanner #72 by IXL Gen. KwISt zantai-XuDetlh <[email protected]>

KAG’s IXL has been going 15 years strong. It has seen many fine leaders, deputy leaders, and liaisons. Many in the IXL demonstrate great costuming skills and showmanship . . . and isn’t that what KAG is about?

Remember, KAG was born on a stage. Many KAG members have won Kill Stripes for their competition on the battlefield of the stage: even “Best of Show.” To do so, these talented members have dressed as Klingons, as well as other aliens. We’re not “one trick ponies.”

Showmanship can also be served by having an alien persona; something to add to the chemistry of the drama of KAG. The positive promotion of KAG’s image is every member’s duty. It is the basis of all our ranks and awards, and is implied in Rule #3: Don’t Embarrass KAG. Make us PROUD, and we will showcase our pride. We differ from paper bureaucracies: Showmanship remains KAG’s hallmark, setting us apart and above the rest.

I want to sum up IXL for you in two words: SPACEFARING ALIENS. And by “aliens,” I mean as alien to Terrans as to Klingons. That doesn’t require much at all. How hard is it to wear non-Earth clothes and a minimum of “Trill Measles” or “Bajoran Crinkles?” Why be mistaken for a bellhop suit, or circus tights, or army surplus? Visibly show you are from another world with culture and technology that isn’t “off the rack.” Better still to be a life form of action and intrigue, stealing attention with glitz and interesting behavior.

Myths to be dispelled:

Myth #1: “IXL members cannot wear ‘honor sashes’ nor ‘command cloaks’.”

Not true! KAG doesn’t have a standard regulation relating to a sash, so someone’s code to suggest that wearing an “honor sash” is “dishonorable” would be apocryphal at best. Their sense of honor and dishonor is not reflected in the canon of the show, nor of KAG’s Rules, Standards or Guidelines.

Myth #2: “IXL members cannot bear an honorific.”

KAG *does* have certain standards related to honorifics. The ground ranks of the IXL and of the Marines, have equivalents to the nautical ranks of the Navy, and they reflect the measure of the member’s service given to KAG. Species is ignored when a sentient being EARNS rank and honorifics in KAG.

Myth #3: “They’ll never be part of the Klingon Empire.”

Not true! Our empire’s military employs Xeno mercenaries as a valued resource. As for those of us in the Legion, the Klingon Empire is our place of work and residence.

Suggested Dos and Don’ts

DO submit photos to the groups, especially KAG’s IXL, at http://ca.groups.yahoo.com/group/kag_ixl/ and to the Legate of the IXL for The Black Rope newsletter. Help us showcase your glory!

DON’T bore the living crap out of your fellow members by reciting multi-volume genealogies. KAG has always been more about “Putting up or shutting up!”

DO remember to entertain. Audience recognition helps. Better to be a familiar alien than something mistaken for a sloppy accident.

DON’T forget Rule #1: Have Fun… and help your fellow KAG members have fun, too. It’s not about exploring your inner schizophrenia . . . it’s about helping an audience discover facets of the human equation. Life is joyful when seen through the surreal eyes of an alien.

You’ll be hearing a lot more about KAG’s glorious Xeno Legion in the months to follow. Watch for our galleries and glories!

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XenoArchaeology


Common Origin Theory:
Development of Sentient Reptilian Life

By Mirodon Telc with foreword by Aviendha, IXL XO.

Ever wonder about the different sentient reptilian species found throughout the galaxy and the similarities to each other? Well the mystery has been solved and you can put your mind to rest. In the scientific paper presented here, you will find the answers. A very detailed report of the findings are presented in the following article written by Mirodon Telc (derived from the fertile mind of KAG member, David Klingman DDS, using many Star Trek resources). I think you will find it as informative as I did — Aviendha

A number of sentient reptilian species have come to light as having significant genotypic, as well as phenotypic, physical characteristics. The purpose of this study is to analyze their common origins and similarities as a group of life forms.

The species in question include:

Voth [Homosaurien sapiens vothis] — A reptilian species indigenous to the Delta Quadrant
Gwyr [Homosaurien sapiens gwyris] — A reptilian species indigenous to the Delta and Gamma Quadrants
Hirogen [Homosaurien sapiens hirogis] — A nomadic reptilian species found throughout the Beta, Gamma, and Delta Quadrants
Jem’Hadar [Recombisaurien sapiens jemhadar] — An engineered species indigenous to the Gamma Quadrant [and following the Dominion War of 2372-2375] to the Alpha Quadrant [Leisl Dax above as Jem’Hadar]
Tosk [Recombisaurien sapiens tosk] — An engineered species indigenous to the Gamma Quadrant
Gorn [Tyrannosaurien sapiens gornis] — A reptilian species indigenous to the Alpha Quadrant, native to the nine-planet system of the main stage red giant Tau Lacertae [at left, Dan Peterson as a Gorn]
Kasheeta [Tyrannosaurien sapiens kasheetis] — A reptilian species native to Isis Kash II, also known as Kashet
Lethean [Lethlosapien lethlis] — A reptilian species indigenous to the Alpha Quadrant, native to the five-planet system of the main stage yellow star Chi Lacertae
Kolaran [Lethlosapien kolaris] — A reptilian species indigenous to a system of 4 planets located near the Romulan Neutral Zone
Saurian [Saurosapien sapiens sauris] — A reptilian species, noted member species of the Federation
Selay [Tyrannoserpien sapiens selayis] — A snake-like reptilian species, noted members of the Federation
Vaadwaur [Homosaurien sapiens vaadwaurensis] — A reptilian species indigenous to the Delta Quadrant, native to a three-planet system
Celan [Varanosapien sapiens celanis] — A reptilian species indigenous to the Delta and Gamma Quadrants

VOTH are a technologically advanced, xenophobic reptilian species of unknown planetary origin that adhere to a strict religious and social doctrine that maintains their origin as the first sentient species in their part of the galaxy. This conflicts with recent genetic and taxonomic evidence pointing to a “Distant Origin Theory” that suggests that their origins are in fact derived from the Earth species Hadrosaurus foulkii that inhabited Earth during the late Cretaceous period, 144 million – 65 million years ago [Hadrosaurs of the period have been discovered in toto in sites in North America – for a fuller description, view the information at http://www.levins.com/dinosaur.html]. The species appears to have disappeared from the Earth geologic record prior to the catastrophic global destruction 65 million years ago, which marks the geologic Cretaceous-Tertiary Boundary, i.e. the C/T Event.

Sociologically, the Voth are governed by a “Ministry of Elders” which oversees matters of state, matters of social and religious doctrine, and it is this governing body that suppresses information regarding their origins.

Technologically, the Voth are listed in the warp-capable database of species – their large city ships [measuring almost 11 kilometers] utilize sophisticated transwarp propulsion technology. Despite their xenophobic nature and strict doctrine, Voth science nevertheless examines other life forms, utilizing advanced technology, including a modified temporal cloaking technology that enables their scientists to examine their subjects undetected, and the use of advanced sedation techniques [a variety of small propellant darts have been used to temporarily incapacitate individuals of species under study].

GWYR are a closely related species to the Voth, of unknown planetary origin, bearing close physical and physiological form and function, though the Gwyr are known to have a natural chameleon-like ability [similar to the Jem’Hadar shrouding]. Their technological capability as yet remains unknown or exists concurrently with the Voth, with whom they share social, political, and secular/theological quarters.

HIROGEN are a nomadic hunter species of unknown planetary origin whose social system is based upon individual or small group hunting parties that seek out prey which they hint and capture for trophy and for social status among other hunter groups. The Hirogen are technologically advanced, listed in the warp-capable database [their vessels utilize dicyclic warp drives] and they are known to utilize a sophisticated array of communications stations spread across approximately 30,000-35,000 light years in the Delta and Beta Quadrants. The origins of the communications array appear to extend back to an earlier less aggressive Hirogen culture of approximately 100,000 years of age.

JEM’HADAR and TOSK are, in fact, not “natural” species but are in fact known to be species that have been engineered by the forces of the Dominion [specifically by the shapeshifting “Founders” indigenous to the Gamma Quadrant]. It is uncertain how “old” either the Jem’Hadar or the Tosk are, though it is suspected that the engineering of both species occurred tens or hundreds of thousands of years ago during a time when the Founders explored the galaxy and encountered resistance and misunderstanding at the hands of the “solids” and humanoid species they encountered. The Jem’Hadar and Tosk were both engineered from a robust reptilian species estimated to exist approximately 90,000 years ago that bore some resemblance to a pre-sentient Jem’Hadar species of the period. The Jem’Hadar and Tosk have both been engineered with the well-known shrouding ability and a resistance to environmental stresses, and in addition it is known that the Jem’Hadar were engineered with a physiologic “addiction” to the isogenic enzyme ketracel white [which serves as their source of nourishment as well], it is suspected that the Tosk are engineered in a similar fashion. The purpose of both species appears to be the defense of the Dominion [specifically this is the function of the Jem’Hadar] and for tactical and training exercises [specifically this is the function of the Tosk].

GORN, other than Voth and perhaps Gwyr, appear to be the “oldest” of these reptilian species. The Gorn are a robust, physically slow, but technologically advanced species listed in the catalog of warp-capable species. The Gorn are a territorial and somewhat aggressive species that has historically been at odds with other species, particularly humanoids in the surrounding star systems. The Kasheeta bear a gross resemblance to the robust character of the Gorn, though they are intellectually more advanced and are a more gregarious species (and are member species of the Federation).

The SELAY appear to have diverged as a species much earlier in the evolution of the reptilian species, carrying different genetic markers, and bearing some closer resemblance to snakes, rather than robust legged reptiles. They are generally grouped, however, with the same common ancestors as the Gorn and Kasheeta, originating from the same “local” area of space.

The LETHEANS are a species that bears some physical characteristics to the other reptilian species, they are noted most widely for their psionic abilities and their telepathic attacks on various species [particularly humanoids, who are known to be susceptible to their telepathic and psionic attacks]. Letheans were at one time thought to be humanoid species but recent evidence suggests they may be an early offshoot of the pre-sentient species, which developed into the Gorn. Kolarans appear to share similar ancestry, though the Kolarans are a more primitive species both technologically and also lack the empathic nature of Letheans.

SAURIANS are also among the oldest of the sentient reptilian species, their origins having occurred early in the exodus of the hadrosaur species from Earth. They represent, in some sense, intermediates in the evolutionary split that separates the more robust species (such as the Gorn and Kasheeta) from the more snakelike species (such as the Selay).

VAADUAR are a Delta Quadrant species, characterized by tall stature and robust head and neck musculature and neck “webbing” [similar to that seen in Cardassians], historically an aggressive and territorial species thought to have been exterminated approximately 900 years ago [c. 1400-1500 ADE]. During the height of their civilization, the Vaadwaur utilized sophisticated subspace corridors to explore and visit other worlds across thousands [perhaps tens of thousands] of light years but their nature became that of an aggressor species. Their planet came under attack some 900 years ago, and a global destruction occurred, leaving nothing of their civilization. The species was later found to have survived and members of the species in stasis below ground on their home world were inadvertently revived. The species has since resumed the use of their subspace conduits, and although their technology is outdated by nearly a millennium, the species [it is thought] has repopulated many worlds through the aid of genetic engineering and rapid breeding programs with the aid of the Voth.

The CELAN are a robust reptilian species that bears some resemblance to modern Gorn, but rather than the “tyrannosaurian” appearance of the Gorn, the Celan bear some closer resemblance [and in fact some genetic similarities] to the modern komodo dragons and monitor lizards found on Earth. The Celan are thought to be a physical labor and military force for the Voth and Gwyr, although this remains uncertain.

It has been speculated that Cardassians are also reptilian in their origins; however, evidence of an ancient proto-humanoid species tends to relate Cardassian evolution to the development of other Humanoid species, rather than to Reptilian species, and physical similarities between Cardassians and Reptilian species (particularly Vaadwaur) may yet require further study [at right, Kubera as Cardassian].

The Voth — The Common Thread

Recent evidence suggests a “Distant Origin Theory” for the Voth [and in fact all other reptilian species]. The Voth are now known to be descended from the Hadrosaurus group of species that inhabited Earth some 80-65 million years ago, prior to the Cretaceous/Tertiary boundary events of 65 million years ago. For clarification, the geologic time scale can be divided into eons, eras, periods, and epochs (see Footnote).

Hadrosaurs of the period belonged to the Order Onrnithiscia [dinosaurs with bird-like pelvic structure], Suborder Ornithopoda [dinosaurs with 3-toed bird-like feet], Family Hadrosauridae [facultative bipeds], which consisted of some 20 to 30 [perhaps more] genera and a variety of species.

These Hadrosaur genera and species appear to have evolved from a dinosaur group known as iguanodontids such as Camptosaurus which was found in fossil deposits from the late Jurassic and early Cretaceous period [154.1-121.0 million years ago] which are themselves descendents of dinosaurs of the grouping fabrosauridae [such as Fabrosaurus and Lesothosaurius found in fossil deposits from the Hettangian and Sinemurian periods of 205.7 to 195.5 million years ago and 208-200 million years ago, respectively].

All of these dinosaurs are descended from the earliest dinosaurs such as Eoraptor and a group of prosauropods found in the fossil record from 228-230 million years ago.

It appears that the Voth [and all reptilian species derived from related genera and species] are in fact descended from Hadrosaurus foulkii [an ornithopod dinosaur averaging 25′ in length and 10′ in height and averaging 7-8 tons] and related species whose earliest common ancestor with modern humanoids can be traced back to Eryops, an amphibian of the Permian Period, found in the fossil record of 275-270 million years ago.

Voth Doctrine of Original Origin vs. Fossil Evidence of Distant Origin: the Fate of the Hadrosaurs

Voth doctrine holds that the Voth as a modern species are of ancient and noble origin in the Delta Quadrant. Though social, political, and philosophical evidence for this theory holds true, and in fact the modern Voth civilization can be traced to numerous star systems throughout the Delta Quadrant, and modern Voth civilization is in fact seen throughout the galaxy, fossil evidence bears significant weight for the distant origin of the Voth as descendants of the Hadrosaurus species found on Earth some 65-80 million years ago. What then happened prior to and after the events of 65 million years ago that transformed the Voth from unremarkable dinosaurs to survivors of a global extinction event?

Developing Sentience

It was once thought that a single species, Homo sapiens, a hominid primate descended from ape or chimp-like primates some 2-3 million years ago, was the sole sentient species on Earth to survive to modern times. This notion has of course been dispelled since evidence for other sentient species on Earth has come to scientific circles [i.e. aquatic mammals such as whales, dolphins, and porpoises] as well as evidence for the seeding of worlds by a proto-humanoid species some 4 billion years ago.

It has been found, in fact, that the development of a sentient species on Earth predates previous known hominid development by more than 65 million years, during the late Cretaceous period, and involves a number of transitionary genera and species:

Hadrosaurius, a pre-sentient group of species found in the fossil record 67-66 million years ago, in a common cluster of genera [the equivalent of Austalopithecine genera and species in later hominids], these were hadrosaurs of diminished stature [15-20′ length and 8-10′ height] which may have had opposable digits

Hadrosapius, an early group of sentient reptiles found in the fossil record 66.1-65.8 million years ago, in a common cluster of genera [the equivalent of Homo habilis or Homo erectus] which were less hadrosaurs than sapient reptiles that stood more or less erect 10-12′, had by this time lost their dinosaur characteristics [tail, bird-like pelvis, and such], these individuals certainly had opposable digits and were more than likely tool makers and users

Hadrosapien genera and species found in the fossil record 65.9-65.7 million years ago [the equivalent of Homo sapiens cromagnon and Homo sapiens neantherthals], these individuals were likely toolmakers and users and may have in fact begun the formation of societies and communities

Hadrosapien vothis, a species that appears in the fossil record 65.8-65.5 million years ago. H. vothis physically appears to be indistinguishable from modern Voth, and for more than 300,000 years appears to have developed a thriving culture, industry, and technology base which ultimately led to some level of space technology

Parallel Events and Secondary Species

At the same time that these events were unfolding [67-65 million years ago] there was concurrently the development of a number of pre-sentient species.

The Cretaceous-Tertiary Boundary, i.e. the C/T Event: 65 Million Years Ago (Mya)

It appears then, at the C/T Event of 65 Mya, a number of sentient and pre-sentient Hadrosaur genera and species survive:

No single fossil event or evidence exists for any of these genera or species after the C/T Event of 65 Mya except the properly buried remains of Hadrosapien vothis and Hadrosapien gothis. Logically, this may seen to make no sense, since we know that all fossils on Earth found after the C/T event [i.e. above the iridium layer in the fossil record] were and are of species that survived, but we find fossils from all of these surviving species on other celestial bodies, including Earth’s moon, Mars, a number of satellites in our solar system, and in nearby star systems. How can this be?

The Theory: Seeding of Worlds by the Voth

Fossil evidence points to firm proof that in fact, the Hadrosapien species not only survived the C/T Event, but in fact may have rebuilt a portion of their civilization on Earth at the same time they colonized nearby planets and star systems. It is common practice to trace the progress geographically of a species moving from one place to another by studying the age of fossils that are found along the migratory path.

65-61 Mya

Colonization of systems within 50 light years of Earth: this includes systems in Tau Lacertae and Chi Lacertae and included fossils from Havarosaurius, Hagarosaurius, and Habarosaurius species [the suspected ancestors of the modern Gorn and Letheans who inhabit those systems]. It appears that during this period, the Hadrosapien species remained close to Earth, populating nearby star systems while rebuilding at least some of their civilization on Earth. However, after 62.2 million years ago, no evidence remains in the fossil record of the civilization, so it is hypothesized that after 62.2 Mya, Earth and the Sol System were abandoned [perhaps this was simply a need for a place to produce raw materials and food, perhaps some other reason].

Hadrosapien vothis remains largely unchanged during this period, there is some evidence for minor evolutionary changes among Hadrosapien gothis between 65 and 62 Mya into their modern form [perhaps it is during this time that their chameleon ability surfaces].

During this period, however, we do find evidence for the development of early civilizations in Tau Lacertae and Chi Lacertae by 61 Mya, and these appear to develop independently of the Hadrosapien influence. In addition, we see during this period and in the following period [61-22 Mya] that additional civilizations appear on what will later be the home worlds of other reptilian species in the Alpha and Beta Quadrants. It is our contention then that by 61 Mya, at least 6 seed civilizations are both planted and left to develop into what will become the modern Gorn and Letheans, Kasheeta, Saurians, Selay, and Kolarans

It appears that during this period, a segment of the Havarosaurius and Habarosaurius species stagnate, and there is little evidence for their development within the Alpha Quadrant. The “later segment” seen in the development of the Kolarans already sees the shift in species seeding into the Beta Quadrant.

61-22 Mya

It is during this period that we see several geologic and archaeological events:

The appearance of modern Voth and Gwyr, largely unchanged from their conservative forms, in the Beta and Delta Quadrants [throughout this period]

Development of Hadarosaurius species in the Beta and Delta Quadrants [toward the middle and end of this period] including the appearance of Hirogosaur remains on a number of worlds between 35 and 25 million years ago

The appearance of conservative Hadarosaurius and Havarosaurius species, mostly in the Delta Quadrant [toward the end of the period, 26-22 Mya]

The appearance of Haburosaurus and Vaburosaurus on a number of Delta Quadrant worlds [at the end of the period, 24-22 Mya]

We can conclude then that the entry of these species into the Delta Quadrant occurred between 30 and 20 million years ago.

22-10 Mya

It is during this period that we see the Voth civilization begin to flourish in the Delta Quadrant and begin to enter the Gamma Quadrant as well.

A number of events occur during this period:

The appearance of a number of Hadarsaurien species in the Gamma Quadrant [12-10 Mya]

The appearance of pre-Hirogen intermediate/modern forms [12-10 Mya]

The appearance of pre-Vaadwaur intermediate/modern forms [10 Mya]

The appearance of Varanosaurs [the ancestors of the Celan] in the Delta and Gamma Quadrants [10 Mya]

10-1 Mya

The modern characteristics appear in the majority of cultures by this time. The Voth by 1 million years ago are a predominant and well-established culture in the Delta and Gamma Quadrants. It is also during this period that the younger reptilian forms begin to develop [Hirogen, Vaadwaur, Celan] and that the fundamental question may be posed as to why for millions of years of evolution, the Voth and Gwyr remained largely unchanged, while those species in the Alpha Quadrant were left to evolve slowly through natural processes, but those species which would develop in the Gamma and Delta Quadrants would take so long to develop and would develop at a much slower rate and with markedly inferior intellectual, psychological, and physical characteristics [i.e. the Hirogen tendency toward pack dynamics, the Vaadwaur aggressiveness and territorialism, and the brutishness of the Celan].

The answer to this of course lies at the very center of the xenophobia and strict conservatism of Voth culture, for it is clearly the Voth doctrine which seeks to hide the fact of their own brutal history — the Voth, through recent studies and the discovery of internal documentation, were cannibals. We must understand in the context of their voyage from nearly one end of the galaxy to another, food and supplies might well have been scarce. This, coupled with the near annihilation of their culture 65 million years ago during the C/T Event, leads one to believe that conditions were harsh and that survival instincts would likely set in. Those cultures “seeded” early in the voyage [Gorn, Letheans, and presumably other Alpha and/or Beta Quadrant species in the general group] would have been less likely to suffer the consequences of such a long voyage and such harsh conditions. Those species that would have developed along the way, would have seen much more severe stressors.

The truth, then, is that for nearly 60 million years, the Voth were cannibals and those species that had begun as representations of a doomed planet, with the hopes of preserving life and repopulating new worlds, had become raw materials, nothing more. A species that would ultimately become so advanced as the Voth can more clearly be understood in their conservatism, xenophobia, and strict legal, social, and moral system under these circumstances.

1 Mya to Present

This period is largely dominated by two things:

The Voth maintaining isolationism

The Voth and their seed species encountering other species despite this — namely, the involvement of the Dominion in the engineering of the Jem’Hadar and the Tosk and the development of an entirely new culture and political and military regime [which would ultimately affect three quadrants and lead to a war of galactic proportion] and the encounter and ultimate clash with humanoids and a second galactic war.

Modern Reptilians

There are generally four subgroups of these modern reptilian forms:

The first consists of the Voth and Gwyr, which has remained largely isolationist following encounters with other species.

The second consist of largely Delta Quadrant species [Hirogen, Vaadwaur, Celan] which consists of aggressive poorly developed cultures that have continued to struggle with violent and challenged heritage

The third consists of the Jem’Hadar and Tosk, species engineered across their entire population for specific purpose

The fourth consists of Alpha and Beta Quadrant species that have in some ways adopted the most humanoid characteristics of all of these reptilian forms, becoming involved in the affairs of Alpha and Beta Quadrant species [usually with poor outcomes].

In Conclusion

It remains to be seen whether additional species will be found [see image at right, Ka’Ris, of Dragon descent and G’wist the Narn, above], whether further analysis of the fossil record on Earth and in the numerous star systems visited by these species will reveal additional evidence for their development, and finally whether some common element will be found to unify the Common Origin Theory.

Footnote: Breakdown of Terran Geologic Time

The geologic eons are the Hadean (4600-3900M years ago, during which time the earth formed and the geologic record began), Archaean (3900-2600M years ago, during which time the first life forms appeared and the fossil record begins), Proterozoic (2600-570M years ago, dominated by bacteria and during which time photosynthetic and eukaryotic organisms and the first multicellular life forms appeared) – these three make up PRECAMBRIAN TIME. These eons are followed by the Phanerozoic eon (570M years ago – now, during which time modern forms of life developed).

The geologic eras of the Phanerozoic eon are: Paleozoic – 570 to 248M years ago, comprosed of the periods Cambrian (development with animals with mineralized shells such as trilobites, echinoderms, and mollusks), Ordovician (dominated by many fossil-forming sea-dwellers such as trilobites, brachiopods and gastropods, and the first corals), Silurian (dominated by marine life including the first vertebrates – primitive fish, but also by the emergence of land plants). Devonian (dominated by marine deposits of coral, brachiopods, and ammonoids, as well as fishes and land plants), Carboniferous (dominated by invertebrates, the emergence of amphibians, and the deposition of coals), and Permian (during which trilobites became extinct and amphibians and reptiles came to dominate the land).

Mesozoic – 248 to 65M years ago, comprised of the periods Triassic (during which reptiles, particularly turtles, phytosaurs, dinosaurs, and marine ichthyosaurs came to dominate), Jurassic (during which time reptiles dominated, pterosaurs appeared, and the first bird Archaeopteryx appeared), and Cretaceous (during which time reptiles and dinosaurs reached their peak, but which ended with the cataclysm that wiped out the majority of reptile and ammonite species).

Cenozoic – 65M years ago to now, comprised of the periods Tertiary and Quaternary. The Tertiary is divided into the epochs of Palaeocene (mammals become abundant on land following the mass extinction of the Cretaceous), Eocene (during which mammals such as rodents come to dominate, carnivores become abundant, and the first horses appear on land the the first whales appear in the seas), Oligocene (mammals continue to dominate, pigs rhinosa and tapirs appear), Miocene (ruminants sich as cattle appear, rodents proliferate, and the first apes appear), and Pliocene (modern mammals come to dominate, and the first Austrolopithecus species appears as the progenitor to modern man). The Quaternary is divided into the epochs of Pleistocene (2M – 10K years ago, often known as the “ice age” dominated by periods of glaciation) and Holocene (10K years ago to now, perhaps an interglacial period)

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