Sunday, November 29, 2009

Guide to the Hannaria Series Part I: The Hannarians

Hannarians are over a 99.99% genetic match to humans but have twelve genes that we don’t. Their bodies have a secondary bloodstream which carries a bioluminescent chemical that makes their eyes glow. This chemical has similar effects to adrenaline in humans but also serves as a fuel for various mental, strength, and healing abilities. Without it, Hannarian adolescents and adults are more vulnerable than humans and can die from a relatively minor injury or illness.

Hannaria itself is an environmentally stable but ancient planet much closer to its sun compared to Earth. It has one nearby colony planet in close orbit named Kydena that is mostly composed of farmland and forests. Since Hannaria relies on imports from Kydena and distant trade partners, diplomatic and ambassador positions are held in high regard and from a political standpoint are second only to the planet’s emperor and advisory council. Their overall social structure is based along family lineage and birth order, with ten percent of the population considered part of the royal bloodlines.

Despite their close appearance to humans bringing up fears from pop culture alien movies, most Hannarians were either favorable or indifferent toward Earth prior to humans discovering of their existence in 2113. The formation of an anti-Hannarian political and terrorist organization called the Earth Independence Party (EIP) in 2120 has led to the deaths of more humans than Hannarians but has put a major strain between the two planets. Unless something is salvaged by the year 2478 (the deadline for Jernard and Rhaynan to make their final reports), the project for bringing Earth in as a full trade partner will be abandoned—leaving it vulnerable to attack by several species that are much more hostile.


Character Profiles: