Betazoid
Posted: Sun Jan 13, 2013 6:49 pmBetazoid
(by Braedon Jori)
Homeworld
Betazed itself is in a system of five planets, orbiting a yellow star. Betazed is the second planet in the system, and has three small moons, named Avandar, Merandar, and Keylandar. It has a gravity of 1.0 G. It is Oxygen-Nitrogen in atmosphere, with a pressure equivalent to Earth's. The climate ranges from tropical to arctic. There is no weather-control technology due to the Betazoid belief that it is unnecessarily tampering with nature.
Geography
Betazed is a remarkably lush, beautiful world, sometimes described as "the jewel of the outer crown" by traders and other visitors. Its gravity and atmosphere are comparable to Earth, and water covers 78 percent of the planet's surface.
The planet has five continents and hundreds of islands.
High mountain peaks of multicolored crystal catch the rays of the Betazoid sun, throwing delicate layers of color upon the landscape. The soil possesses crystals of a faceted green mineral called versina.
The Betazoid sky is blue with pink clouds. Climatic zones range from tropical to arctic, with temperatures averaging 23 degrees Celsius in summer and 13 degrees in winter. The majority of the time, the weather is calm and pleasant in most areas, but when atmospheric conditions shift, they do so with startling speed. Average rainfall in all zones is roughly one and a half times that of Earth, though some seasons are wetter and some drier. No weather-control technology is employed.
There is much farmland on Betazed, and many cities devoted to philosophical studies.
Great expanses of natural wilderness cover much of the planet, varying from dense jungles to wide canyons and cliffs. Much of the major continents are dotted with lakes, and the planet is home to thousands of forms of native wildlife.
Medara
Medara is the capital city of Betazed, and it is located on the largest of the continents. The city's districts branch out like the spokes of a great wheel, and in the center of this is the Plaza of Contemplation - the center of Betazoid spirituality. The design is greatly integrated into the natural environment, and a thriving swampy ecosystem exists side-by-side with the Betazoid inhabitants. Medara is also a sacred city, sporting many holy places and shrines. Many of the Great Houses tend to these with great care, as many of their members have religious duties as well as temporal ones.
Just outside the city's center are the governmental and bureaucratic complexes. The planet is governed from this location by The Ruling Council. The Great Houses of Betazed also maintain residences in this district.
Beyond the govermental complexes are commercial, industrial, and eventually residential districts.
Other Sites
Lake Cataria is a beautiful place on Betazed. Janaran Falls is a waterfall in the Jalara Jungle on Betazed. It is rare for anyone to travel any distance into the jungle. It has dangers such as mud pits, but there are very few dangerous animals. Bacarba Lake is a lake located on Betazed. The Valley of Song is located on Betazed. The northern cliffs in the Valley of Song is a popular location for scattering the ashes of deceased loved ones. The Loneel Mountains is a mountain range on Betazed. Loneel Valley is the caldera of an ancient volcano. It is honeycombed with tunnels and caves. High concentrations of fistrium in the rock prevented detection by sensors. There was a resistance stronghold in these mountains during the Dominion occupation of Betazed.
Darona is a small colony in the Betazoid system known for its agricultural, medical and scientific research facilities. Darona is the 6th planet in the Betazoid system. Darona also has a prison. Darona has a rose-colored sky and an atmosphere of serenity and natural beauty. Jarkana is Darona's capital city, and the Jarkana spaceport is just outside 'the city'.
Jarkana Mountains are near Jarkana. Jarkana is a large village of less than 100 squat square houses, built from adobe made from the indigenous red clay, with broad avenues between them, and extensive gardens filled with exotic flowers surround each residence. There are a few larger governmental and research buildings in the center of the capital. The Teskalia tree is found on Darona. Cavat is grown in fields on Darona. Less than 1,000 Dominion troops were stationed there due to its low population.
Physiology
Externally, Betazoids are among the most humanoid species on record and are outwardly indistinguishable from Humans in every aspect but one, the irises of their eyes are completely black.
Betazoids are usually tall, 1.65-2.13 meters, with a slim-line appearance, weighing between 52-100 kilograms, dependent on height. Both males and females are humanoid mammals. Males of the species tend to be less hairy than humans, and women are generally considered of same strength. In addition, their REM sleep frequency is different than for most humanoids.
Their brain contains a paracortex, or telepathic lobe, which is highly capable of recovery from injury, and includes the "metaconsciousness," or a trauma filter; psilosynine is the neurotransmitter involved in telepathy.
Betazoids are very flexible, and they can control many body functions. Their body functions (heart, respiratory, circulatory, excretory, endocrine) are very similar to humans, with the exception of their skeletal system being close to that of a cat.
Betazoids are natural telepaths; most develop this ability in adolescence, but a few are born with their telepathic abilities already active. Unable to screen out the noise of other peoples minds, these individuals generally suffer mental problems of varying severity depending mostly on when the problem was diagnosed.
Similiar to humans, although child-birth is generally considered more intense and longer. Gestation period is 10 months, and the reproductive structures of male and female Betazoids are similar to humans. Females also go through a period entitled "The Phase", in which their sex drive quadruples. Betazoids are also fertile for the majority of their lives, sometimes having children in their 50s, 60s, and some even 70s.
Betazoids can cross-breed with Humans, although this often affects the telepathic abilities of the offspring - most commonly the children of such a union develop empathic abilities as their primary psionic talent, while their telepathic abilities, though existing, are rather below average for Betazoids. Usually the telepathy of these half-breeds, without extensive training, is limited to communication with other empaths or telepaths and full telepathic contact with emotionally very close persons (Imzadi).
All full Betazoids are unable to read the thoughts of Ferengi, Breen, Ullians or Dopterians, but some half Betazoids have been occasionally successful in sensing the emotions of some of these species. Additionally even full Betazoids seem to be able to psionically influence some of these species
The capabilities develop in adolescence, and most receive formal training for their power based on strength. They are all different, and sometimes a Betazoid can be born with full capability. This poses strong problems, and often the individuals are hospitalized and even isolated.
Betazoids reach rapid eye movement (REM) sleep at a different frequency from other humanoids.
In mid-life, Betazoid females undergo a physiological change known as "the Phase" where their sex drive quadruples or more.
Mature Betazoids can also suffer from Zanthi fever, that causes the Betazoid to loose control over the projective aspect of his/her empathy. That can result in people around that Betazoid acting as if they'd experience the same general emotional state as him/her, though they are directed by their own subconscious desires, fears etc.
Mature Betazoids could also suffer from Zanthi fever, which caused them to lose control over the projective aspect of their empathy. That could result in people around them acting as if they had experienced the same general emotional state as the affected Betazoid, though they were directed by their own subconscious desires, fears, and other emotions.
Government
The Ruling Council of Betazed is a democratically elected body from the thirteen high houses, which governs Betazed. Within the Council Hall, all debate and discussion is conducted telepathically. Although council members may shield their thoughts, it is frowned upon. Betazoids see their legislature as sacred and believe that complete openness allows the best decisions to be reached. Failure to participate fully means that a councilor is shirking his duty to his constituents.
Unlike other planets, Betazed has no single leader, instead it has a vast bureaucracy which serves under the ruling council, this is divided into many departments known as Relzari, such as the High Office of Defense, which commands the Betazed Defence Force; High Office of Finance, which handles planetary economics; Office of Domestic Affairs, which works to maintain the quality of life for all Betazoids. The council itself is responsible for appointing its ambassadors, such as Lwaxana Troi. Below the planetary level, Betazed is organised into provinces which each are run by governors, who handle affairs on a day to day basis, and ensure that the rules passed down by the council are implemented.
History
The ancient history of Betazed is shrouded in Myth and legend, and the Betazed people seem to prefer it this way, much to the annoyance of historical professors across the federation. Much of the Betazoids Myths centre on the races gift for telepathy, which were given to them by their spirits, for the excellence of the peoples stewardship of the Natural world. But the legends also speak of a vicious enemy who shared these telepathic powers, and was the cause of great wars on the planet.
Every Betazed is told the legend of Khrysaros, a mystical hero, who used his vast mental powers to defeat the shadowy enemies form the stars and usher in a new golden age. His teachings lived on through his followers, notably the acolyte Rixx, who was granted a set of holy rings which were said to have the power to summon Khrysaros during the time of Betazeds greatest need, these rings are the ancestral property of the fifth house of Betazed.
Khrysaros is credited with the unification of Betazed, before his time, Betazoids were organised into various kingdoms and city-states which often fought each other. Eventually, a theocratic oligarchy, a religious group gained control of the planet, and only nobles were allowed to enter the priesthood, who then dictated life on Betazed. As the planet advanced technologically, the need of a more secular government became apparent, and while then priesthood had brought the feuding nations together as a unified world, their resistance to social freedoms and technological advancement became a hindrance to the society.
Betazed was still ruled by its strong spiritual and ethical beliefs, and as the dawn of the space age came to the planet, a conflict between the religious and technological section was inevitable. The coming troubles appeared in the form of a priest named Dainara, who as a member of the third house, spoke out openly that Betazed had grown to the limit of its spiritual roots. He thought that the priesthood was no longer able to govern the world effectively and he advocated a radical separation of the secular and the spiritual. He spoke out against the casual acceptance of the telepathic abilities of his race, and the inherent responsibilities that came with the technological advancements, which his people were making. He words feel on many ears, and he earned a great deal of followers, though he had no support form his fellow priests and nobles.
The first Betazed space flight occurred the following year, with the blessing of the priesthood, despite the spiritual ramifications of space flight, they saw this as an opportunity to spread their teachings beyond their own world. First contact with an alien species occurred for the Betazed people several years later, when their first warp-capable ship found another culture, the Terebian, less than four light years away. The Betazed and Terebian cultures were very different, and the Betazoids were startled about the lack of telepathic ability in the Terebians, so much so that the priesthood took this to be a sign of inferiority. the Betazed people had more advanced agrarian technology, where the Terebians excelled in material engineering and electronics, this led to a vast exchange of culture and technology between the two races.
As the years passed, several form each race began to settle on the others worlds, and interracial marriage was becoming more and more common, initially the Terebians had been curious of the telepathic abilities of the Betazoids, but it soon turned to distrust, particularly as the views of the priesthood that telepathy was a spiritual gift and should be used freely and widely fell deafly on Terebian ears. Terebians began to resent what they saw as the Betazeds superior attitude, and traders began to bicker, Terebians accusing Betazoids of unfair practices and advantages, the Betazoid predilection for honesty is now well know, and these rumours were likely untrue. However, at the time this rumor was all that was necessary to fuel the start of fire on Terebia.
Betazoid inhabitants of Terebia were quickly rounded up and placed into makeshift internment camps, and fearing retribution for their acts on their home world, the Terebians launched a pre-emptive strike against Betazed itself. Whilst neither side had amassed significant military powers, the ensuing war lasted for seven long and brutal years, before the Terebians finally agreed to sit down and negotiate with the Betazoids, after neither side had gained an upper hand in the war. It is speculated by historians that the Terebian change of heart, came about form a greater understanding of the Betazoid powers gained from the prisoners they held on their home world.
The Betazed priesthood finally realised that its ways were outdated, and in the wake of the war they could no longer ignore the obvious. Thus in their time of need, they turned to Dainara, who then took to heading the negotiations. He successfully negotiated the Terebian Armistice, and afterwards a provisional council was put in place on Betazed. Large-scale reforms took place and discrimination form social class was abolished in terms of the government, though even today the heads of the larger houses are given more special treatment that others.
The ruling council was formed in the wake of provisional rule, and the long process of rebuilding was begun. The most lasting contribution to come form the spiritual arm of the provisional council, was what is known as the Code of Sentience. Spearheaded by Dainara and influenced heavily by his teachings, this codeset down indelibly the duties, responsibilities and prohibitions on the Betazed telepathy. The telepathic abilites were indeed a gift, but this gift had to be respected and used wisely, especially during the new ge of exploration and contact. The code ensured that the mistakes made during contact with the Terebians were not repeated.
After a century of rebuilding and forming new agreements with the Terebians, first contact with the federation occurred, and only shortly afterwards, Betazed applied for membership. Whilst this century or rebuilding and peace was seen as a near Utopia by the Betazed people, most welcomed entrance into the Federation, and the planet has ultimately benefited form its inclusion into the UFP. Since joining, the Betazed people have distinguished themselves in several fields and the Starfleet position of ships counsellor was made, specifically with the Betazoids in mind to fill that role. The talents of the Betazoids, plus their honest and outgoing natures, have gained them many friends across the Federation.
Unfortunately, there are still some races and people who do discriminate against Betazoids, and other telepathic creatures, but their is an extensive Federation program in operation, based in fact around Betazed, which helps to educate the average citizen about telepaths, and also help dispel any prejudice against telepathic powers they might have.
After many years of peace in the Federation, Betazed feel victim to the circumstances of war. It has always been a strategically important system, due to its closeness to both Earth and Vulcan, but it also lies near to the former Cardassian borders, and when war broke out with the Dominion, it was a prime target. The twelfth fleet, assigned to the Betazed sector, was mislead away form the planet, and a Dominion invasion force successfully managed to take over the system, which had very few of its own defences against such a force as that which the Dominion employed.
Betazed was occupied for greater that a year, and there was only one escape attempt which was known to be successfully, over half a billion citizens of the planet were murdered in prison facilities whilst experiments were done to test their telepathic powers. It is said that other teleptahic races on the other side of Federation space heard the scream of the planet.
Once again, today, the planet finds itself in a time of rebuilding, with Starfleet being called in to erect a new orbital space station, this has helped quell some of the fears that the federation could no longer protect the world. But it is a time of much unrest on the surface, and several anti-federation organizations are beginning top become apparent, most notably one calling themselves the Enlightened Mind Movement. This movement had been present on Betazed for some time, feeling that their planet is being ruined by the influences of other cultures alien to their own.
Members of the Enlightened Mind tend to have a somewhat xenophobic nature, and this leads them to feel its many alien visitors poison their planet. They feel that their people have forgotten the teaching of Dainara, and are forgetting the nature of the conflict with Terebia, fearing the same will happen with the federation. The EMM wishes Betazed to return to the golden age of the time before they joined the UFP, and unfortunately with the recent devastation from the Dominion occupation, their words are being heard by more and more people each day.
Whilst the EMM generally keeps to peaceful demonstrations, more extreme faction has been involved in terrorist activities, and Starfleet intelligence and fleet security have interfered with attempted assassinations. One such planned assassination of the prominent ambassador to earth Lwaxana Troi, was foiled just a few short weeks before the war with the Dominion broke out.
Society
The social organization of Betazed is a class-system, although there are no major gaps between 'poor' and 'wealthy'. The Noble Classes are a small chunk of the Betazoid population in which are believed to descend from the very first ancestorial Betazoids. The Noble Classes are then further divided into Houses, which are based on the gifts and values of the individuals.
Betazoid society tends toward more formal and elaborate traditions and ceremonies than most cultures in their present evolutionary stage. Some of the rites often make the more conservative Federation offworlder uneasy at first, most notably the traditional wedding ceremony in which no clothing is to be worn. Though there are no official gender-based restrictions in place within Betazoid society, women have traditionally held many positions of authority.
The Gender roles are on a 40/60 system. Males are considered less worthy and less intelligent as females, although most of the females are tolerant and considerably equal-minded. Females inherit family wealth, and they are often the head of households and families. Males can also hold those positions, and sometimes even government seats. The masculinity/femininity roles are not present in Betazoid culture, as males and females can vary in both intensity, competitiveness, strength, and powers.
Betazoids practice an old style of marriage arrangement called genetic bonding, wherein children are promised to each other for marriage later by their parents. On the same note, Betazoids are known for their ability to love more than one person without losing their ability to love their mate, nor are they bound by their marriage customs. Because marriage is a celebration of the act of love to Betazoids, the wedding ceremony itself is traditionally conducted without clothing of any sort. Though there are no official gender-based restrictions in place within Betazoid society, women have traditionally held many positions of authority.
Betazoids are a race of pacific philosophers who are more likely to observe than act, and consequently have little use for weapons or even defense systems. Their planetary defense system were outdated the moment they were finally in place and proved to be quite useless when the Dominion. Nonetheless, they are considered a major world of the Federation and their fall during the Dominion war in 2374 struck home the devastation that had eaten away at the Federation's formerly secure borders.
Culture
The Betazoid people appreciate fine arts, literature, and philosophy. Their culture is one of great beauty and an ancient history, with family records up to 40 generations.
Museums and Natural Beauty
Betazoids treasure art and especially natural beauty, and they love to portray nature and their inner feelings through music, natural abstract, and massive museums with art. Betazoids also encourage artistry, and their museums are set up so that a constant stream of new age music plays in the background. Although, they call it 'soul' music. The paintings are hung on a flat wall bent slightly downward so that you can view it easily, and every portrait or so has a comfortable contoured bench for meditation. Certain pictures are seperated by certain themes.
Types of Betazoid Art
Types of Betazoid art include natural beauty art, abstract natural beauty, empathic abstract, and plain abstract. Natural abstract is a mixture of natural tones that make out a discernable picture intermixed with a theme. Empathic abstract is art that displays very abstractly emotions and strong empathic fields. Plain abstract is just a free-for-all abstract painting iscerning anything from life to trees. Sculptures are also there, and many of them are also abstract.
Music of Betazoid
Music of Betazoid is very calm and soothing, and very surreal. It is a light mix of today's New Age, but with an organ sounding chime to it. The only true way to understand its music is to experience it.
Why That Kind of Art/Music
Betazoids thrive on inner thoughts and meditation, and usually that art can be soothing, calming, and very pleasing. They also express themselves through this kind of art/music, and it allows for creativity and originality in their culture. The music of Betazoid is flowing and simple, most calling it 'soul' music or just music. They have chants in ancient Betazoid language of course, complete with flowing melodies and soft tunes and beats.
Social Practices, Banquets, and Feasts
Betazoids love large crowds, and most banquets and socials held have large crowds. This is especially common amongst the noble classes and Houses. Regular Betazoids tend to prefer intelligent talk, and most don't engage in heavy joking and humor. They enjoy enlightening conversations also, and they often come out as quiet when really they are just talking through telepathy. Food served at banquets and feasts are supposedly very sundry and varied, allowing for many choices and preferences.
Food Consumption and Relevance
Food consumption is usually conducted in groups, and Betazoids usually never eat alone. If it is a richer family, the Betazoid family will have many banquets and social gatherings, sometimes inviting an excess of hundreds of guests. The sharing of a meal is considered sacred, and is marked with the constant ringing of a background Betazoid Chime, and marks great friendship with well-being.
Betazoid Chime
This small crystalline object is sometimes shaped like diamond or a triangle, and it is chimed against a small glass-like chalice or bowl filled with water during meals. It is supposed to mean thanking the gods for the meal and good fortune.
Types of Food and Uses
Betazoid food is varied greatly, and there are many different sources. They have breads, vegetation, berry and fruit-like sweets, and various meats. Betazoids tend to be more herbivorous then carnivorous, as large animals can be intimidating to kill.
Meditation
Betazoids meditate often, and use a focal point to focus their energy. The benefits of this can be extreme immunity from pain or even death, and it allows for more bodily control.
Gift-Bearing
Usually, when a Betazoid gives an eleborate gift to someone that is very special to them, they will place it into a special box and give it to them in that. The box usually has a face on it that can show emotion, and it can sometimes be very elaborate and expensive. This is especially associated with Genetic Bonding.
Painting of Ancestors
As the generations of a Noble Household progress farther and farther in lineage, each daughter is painted at the age of 40 in a painting a little larger then the last predecessor. This shows how the past becomes less and less memorable, yet will always be there. Some of the ancient paintings are extremely large, some taking up entire rooms and even houses themselves.
Preservation of Body
Only recently, in the past 600 years or so, have Betazoids taken the practice of preserving deceased loved ones in special chemicals that help the body last for generations. This is most common in the Houses, as few lower level citizens have the room to hold such sacred items.
The Visitation
These are a series of remembrances that take place after the death of a family member and friend. Those that are closest to the dead person gather at a series of meetings, one held at six weeks after the death, another after the sixth month, and another for every three years afterwards. During the ceremony, the participants remember the deceased and share strong telepathic fields with each other.
Attitudes About Sex and Marriage
Betazoids often are capable of loving more then one person at the same time, yet also in a very deep way. This makes them unique in Xenology, and it is sometimes attributed to the empathic lobe of their brains. The females of the Betazoid population treasure the males as more 'playmates' when it comes to sex, but many of them also hold it to be a sacred event of bonding. Most don't hold sex as the primary reason for having children. Instead, they look deeper into the bonding and intense telepathic experience.
Wedding Ceremony
The proper Betazoid wedding is rich with symbolism. It is customary that all people, guests and participants, attend the ceremony nude, to symbolize that, physically and spiritually, there is nothing to hide, that all are sharing in complete cooperation in the spirit of harmony and unity. The ceremony itself is also rich in symbolism. The groom walks in, followed by his mother, who pulls on his arm, trying to stop him. The groom keeps walking, and his father steps into his path, holding up a hand in a signal for the groom to stop. The groom gently but firmly pushes his father out of the way and walks to the front of the room. At this point, the bride's parents enter, the bride's mother sobbing loudly. The bride sits in the front row. A woman who is equivalent to a maid-of-honor enters and walks up to the bride, saying "I summon you to the place of marriage." She then escorts the bride to the side of the groom and the ceremony proceeds. The bride wears a white band in her hair, which she tosses over her shoulder to a crowd of waiting women, much like the Terran tradition of tossing the bridal bouquet. To the woman that catches the band, it means that the love of her life is at the gathering.
Education
Betazoids start school early in life, and the earliest schooling is set up in a nurturing setting with many adults and positive influences. Strong artistic and mental skills are established at this time, and all younger Betazoids are subject to preliminary trances and methods of relaxation. At middle school, the earlier developers of telepathy are often sent to alternate schools to help them deal with their powers and often stronger influences. The norm of society, although, is taught at this time about their own minds and learn more complex functions. At later schooling, prior to the high school equivalent, they develop the first telepathic skills. They learn more and more, and eventually, they master most of their skills. The skills vary, of course, and the parents at this time become more open to their children and often share strong bonding experiences with their kin.
Code of Sentience
Betazoids also have a strict code of ethics regarding use of their telepathy with alien species, known as the Code of Sentience. Much of this stems from their history. When Betazoids first ventured into space, they made contact with the Terabin, the people of a nearby world. The relationship was friendly at first, however the Terabin began to mistrust Betazoids for their use of telepathy. Betazoids on the Terabin worlds were rounded up and placed in internment camps, and a brief war ensued.
As a result of that first encounter, Betazoids use their telepathy with extreme discretion. They would never use their abilities to invade another person's private thoughts, and what they do see remains private unless absolutely necessary. Betazoid telepathy and empathy are also typically receptive in regards to non-telepathic species. While projecting directed thoughts to a non-telepath is possible, it requires concentration, and often a receptive mind to be successful.
Naturally, some Betazoids are stronger telepathically than others and would have greater success; however, the Code of Sentience, the Betazoid code of ethics regarding telepathy, also applies. It would be just as unethical to intrude into another being's mind to -leave- a thought, as it would be to invade and read their private thoughts.
The Houses of Betazed
The Houses of Betazed is the top most social class of Betazed society. All of the individuals in this class are considered to be actual descendents of ancestral Betazoids. The Houses of Betazoids are numbered, and they can also be classified in the qualities that the Houses are supposed to hold. There are a total of about 13 seperate houses, based on ancestor and qualities.
Spirituality
The Betazoids are a highly spiritual people. Their spiritualism guides them every day. Their mythology centers around the Four Deities, which also represent four apsects of Betazoid life. These four deities are not anthropomorphic, but rather spiritual concepts that they worship and adhere to.
The Four Deities are named after the Betazoid words for the spiritual concepts: Altha (Peace/Stability), Imza (Love/Compassion), Fana (Nature), Tholta (Truth/Honesty). While all four have equal 'weight' as deities, there exists a structure to them in a diamond shape. At the top is Altha. Imza and Tholta are the middle points of the diamond, for without Truth and Love, there can be no peace and stability. The bottom point is Fana, or Nature, symbolizing the roots of the faith. Two central points represent the 'base' of the Betazoid civilized society. The bottom point of the diamond's association to the natural is a reminder that it is something that is often a delicate balance.
(by Braedon Jori)
Homeworld
- Full Name: Betazed
- Native Name: Cyndriel
- Classification: M
- Affilliation: United Federation of Planets
- First Contact: 2236
- Joined the UFP: 2294
- Location: Beta Veldonna System
- Moons: 3 (Avandar, Merandar, Keylandar)
- Population: 5.617 Billion (99.7% Betazoid, 0.25%Human, 0.05%Centauran)
- Capital: Medara
- Length of Day: 25 hours
Betazed itself is in a system of five planets, orbiting a yellow star. Betazed is the second planet in the system, and has three small moons, named Avandar, Merandar, and Keylandar. It has a gravity of 1.0 G. It is Oxygen-Nitrogen in atmosphere, with a pressure equivalent to Earth's. The climate ranges from tropical to arctic. There is no weather-control technology due to the Betazoid belief that it is unnecessarily tampering with nature.
Geography
Betazed is a remarkably lush, beautiful world, sometimes described as "the jewel of the outer crown" by traders and other visitors. Its gravity and atmosphere are comparable to Earth, and water covers 78 percent of the planet's surface.
The planet has five continents and hundreds of islands.
High mountain peaks of multicolored crystal catch the rays of the Betazoid sun, throwing delicate layers of color upon the landscape. The soil possesses crystals of a faceted green mineral called versina.
The Betazoid sky is blue with pink clouds. Climatic zones range from tropical to arctic, with temperatures averaging 23 degrees Celsius in summer and 13 degrees in winter. The majority of the time, the weather is calm and pleasant in most areas, but when atmospheric conditions shift, they do so with startling speed. Average rainfall in all zones is roughly one and a half times that of Earth, though some seasons are wetter and some drier. No weather-control technology is employed.
There is much farmland on Betazed, and many cities devoted to philosophical studies.
Great expanses of natural wilderness cover much of the planet, varying from dense jungles to wide canyons and cliffs. Much of the major continents are dotted with lakes, and the planet is home to thousands of forms of native wildlife.
Medara
Medara is the capital city of Betazed, and it is located on the largest of the continents. The city's districts branch out like the spokes of a great wheel, and in the center of this is the Plaza of Contemplation - the center of Betazoid spirituality. The design is greatly integrated into the natural environment, and a thriving swampy ecosystem exists side-by-side with the Betazoid inhabitants. Medara is also a sacred city, sporting many holy places and shrines. Many of the Great Houses tend to these with great care, as many of their members have religious duties as well as temporal ones.
Just outside the city's center are the governmental and bureaucratic complexes. The planet is governed from this location by The Ruling Council. The Great Houses of Betazed also maintain residences in this district.
Beyond the govermental complexes are commercial, industrial, and eventually residential districts.
Other Sites
Lake Cataria is a beautiful place on Betazed. Janaran Falls is a waterfall in the Jalara Jungle on Betazed. It is rare for anyone to travel any distance into the jungle. It has dangers such as mud pits, but there are very few dangerous animals. Bacarba Lake is a lake located on Betazed. The Valley of Song is located on Betazed. The northern cliffs in the Valley of Song is a popular location for scattering the ashes of deceased loved ones. The Loneel Mountains is a mountain range on Betazed. Loneel Valley is the caldera of an ancient volcano. It is honeycombed with tunnels and caves. High concentrations of fistrium in the rock prevented detection by sensors. There was a resistance stronghold in these mountains during the Dominion occupation of Betazed.
Darona is a small colony in the Betazoid system known for its agricultural, medical and scientific research facilities. Darona is the 6th planet in the Betazoid system. Darona also has a prison. Darona has a rose-colored sky and an atmosphere of serenity and natural beauty. Jarkana is Darona's capital city, and the Jarkana spaceport is just outside 'the city'.
Jarkana Mountains are near Jarkana. Jarkana is a large village of less than 100 squat square houses, built from adobe made from the indigenous red clay, with broad avenues between them, and extensive gardens filled with exotic flowers surround each residence. There are a few larger governmental and research buildings in the center of the capital. The Teskalia tree is found on Darona. Cavat is grown in fields on Darona. Less than 1,000 Dominion troops were stationed there due to its low population.
Physiology
Externally, Betazoids are among the most humanoid species on record and are outwardly indistinguishable from Humans in every aspect but one, the irises of their eyes are completely black.
Betazoids are usually tall, 1.65-2.13 meters, with a slim-line appearance, weighing between 52-100 kilograms, dependent on height. Both males and females are humanoid mammals. Males of the species tend to be less hairy than humans, and women are generally considered of same strength. In addition, their REM sleep frequency is different than for most humanoids.
Their brain contains a paracortex, or telepathic lobe, which is highly capable of recovery from injury, and includes the "metaconsciousness," or a trauma filter; psilosynine is the neurotransmitter involved in telepathy.
Betazoids are very flexible, and they can control many body functions. Their body functions (heart, respiratory, circulatory, excretory, endocrine) are very similar to humans, with the exception of their skeletal system being close to that of a cat.
Betazoids are natural telepaths; most develop this ability in adolescence, but a few are born with their telepathic abilities already active. Unable to screen out the noise of other peoples minds, these individuals generally suffer mental problems of varying severity depending mostly on when the problem was diagnosed.
Similiar to humans, although child-birth is generally considered more intense and longer. Gestation period is 10 months, and the reproductive structures of male and female Betazoids are similar to humans. Females also go through a period entitled "The Phase", in which their sex drive quadruples. Betazoids are also fertile for the majority of their lives, sometimes having children in their 50s, 60s, and some even 70s.
Betazoids can cross-breed with Humans, although this often affects the telepathic abilities of the offspring - most commonly the children of such a union develop empathic abilities as their primary psionic talent, while their telepathic abilities, though existing, are rather below average for Betazoids. Usually the telepathy of these half-breeds, without extensive training, is limited to communication with other empaths or telepaths and full telepathic contact with emotionally very close persons (Imzadi).
All full Betazoids are unable to read the thoughts of Ferengi, Breen, Ullians or Dopterians, but some half Betazoids have been occasionally successful in sensing the emotions of some of these species. Additionally even full Betazoids seem to be able to psionically influence some of these species
The capabilities develop in adolescence, and most receive formal training for their power based on strength. They are all different, and sometimes a Betazoid can be born with full capability. This poses strong problems, and often the individuals are hospitalized and even isolated.
Betazoids reach rapid eye movement (REM) sleep at a different frequency from other humanoids.
In mid-life, Betazoid females undergo a physiological change known as "the Phase" where their sex drive quadruples or more.
Mature Betazoids can also suffer from Zanthi fever, that causes the Betazoid to loose control over the projective aspect of his/her empathy. That can result in people around that Betazoid acting as if they'd experience the same general emotional state as him/her, though they are directed by their own subconscious desires, fears etc.
Mature Betazoids could also suffer from Zanthi fever, which caused them to lose control over the projective aspect of their empathy. That could result in people around them acting as if they had experienced the same general emotional state as the affected Betazoid, though they were directed by their own subconscious desires, fears, and other emotions.
Government
The Ruling Council of Betazed is a democratically elected body from the thirteen high houses, which governs Betazed. Within the Council Hall, all debate and discussion is conducted telepathically. Although council members may shield their thoughts, it is frowned upon. Betazoids see their legislature as sacred and believe that complete openness allows the best decisions to be reached. Failure to participate fully means that a councilor is shirking his duty to his constituents.
Unlike other planets, Betazed has no single leader, instead it has a vast bureaucracy which serves under the ruling council, this is divided into many departments known as Relzari, such as the High Office of Defense, which commands the Betazed Defence Force; High Office of Finance, which handles planetary economics; Office of Domestic Affairs, which works to maintain the quality of life for all Betazoids. The council itself is responsible for appointing its ambassadors, such as Lwaxana Troi. Below the planetary level, Betazed is organised into provinces which each are run by governors, who handle affairs on a day to day basis, and ensure that the rules passed down by the council are implemented.
History
The ancient history of Betazed is shrouded in Myth and legend, and the Betazed people seem to prefer it this way, much to the annoyance of historical professors across the federation. Much of the Betazoids Myths centre on the races gift for telepathy, which were given to them by their spirits, for the excellence of the peoples stewardship of the Natural world. But the legends also speak of a vicious enemy who shared these telepathic powers, and was the cause of great wars on the planet.
Every Betazed is told the legend of Khrysaros, a mystical hero, who used his vast mental powers to defeat the shadowy enemies form the stars and usher in a new golden age. His teachings lived on through his followers, notably the acolyte Rixx, who was granted a set of holy rings which were said to have the power to summon Khrysaros during the time of Betazeds greatest need, these rings are the ancestral property of the fifth house of Betazed.
Khrysaros is credited with the unification of Betazed, before his time, Betazoids were organised into various kingdoms and city-states which often fought each other. Eventually, a theocratic oligarchy, a religious group gained control of the planet, and only nobles were allowed to enter the priesthood, who then dictated life on Betazed. As the planet advanced technologically, the need of a more secular government became apparent, and while then priesthood had brought the feuding nations together as a unified world, their resistance to social freedoms and technological advancement became a hindrance to the society.
Betazed was still ruled by its strong spiritual and ethical beliefs, and as the dawn of the space age came to the planet, a conflict between the religious and technological section was inevitable. The coming troubles appeared in the form of a priest named Dainara, who as a member of the third house, spoke out openly that Betazed had grown to the limit of its spiritual roots. He thought that the priesthood was no longer able to govern the world effectively and he advocated a radical separation of the secular and the spiritual. He spoke out against the casual acceptance of the telepathic abilities of his race, and the inherent responsibilities that came with the technological advancements, which his people were making. He words feel on many ears, and he earned a great deal of followers, though he had no support form his fellow priests and nobles.
The first Betazed space flight occurred the following year, with the blessing of the priesthood, despite the spiritual ramifications of space flight, they saw this as an opportunity to spread their teachings beyond their own world. First contact with an alien species occurred for the Betazed people several years later, when their first warp-capable ship found another culture, the Terebian, less than four light years away. The Betazed and Terebian cultures were very different, and the Betazoids were startled about the lack of telepathic ability in the Terebians, so much so that the priesthood took this to be a sign of inferiority. the Betazed people had more advanced agrarian technology, where the Terebians excelled in material engineering and electronics, this led to a vast exchange of culture and technology between the two races.
As the years passed, several form each race began to settle on the others worlds, and interracial marriage was becoming more and more common, initially the Terebians had been curious of the telepathic abilities of the Betazoids, but it soon turned to distrust, particularly as the views of the priesthood that telepathy was a spiritual gift and should be used freely and widely fell deafly on Terebian ears. Terebians began to resent what they saw as the Betazeds superior attitude, and traders began to bicker, Terebians accusing Betazoids of unfair practices and advantages, the Betazoid predilection for honesty is now well know, and these rumours were likely untrue. However, at the time this rumor was all that was necessary to fuel the start of fire on Terebia.
Betazoid inhabitants of Terebia were quickly rounded up and placed into makeshift internment camps, and fearing retribution for their acts on their home world, the Terebians launched a pre-emptive strike against Betazed itself. Whilst neither side had amassed significant military powers, the ensuing war lasted for seven long and brutal years, before the Terebians finally agreed to sit down and negotiate with the Betazoids, after neither side had gained an upper hand in the war. It is speculated by historians that the Terebian change of heart, came about form a greater understanding of the Betazoid powers gained from the prisoners they held on their home world.
The Betazed priesthood finally realised that its ways were outdated, and in the wake of the war they could no longer ignore the obvious. Thus in their time of need, they turned to Dainara, who then took to heading the negotiations. He successfully negotiated the Terebian Armistice, and afterwards a provisional council was put in place on Betazed. Large-scale reforms took place and discrimination form social class was abolished in terms of the government, though even today the heads of the larger houses are given more special treatment that others.
The ruling council was formed in the wake of provisional rule, and the long process of rebuilding was begun. The most lasting contribution to come form the spiritual arm of the provisional council, was what is known as the Code of Sentience. Spearheaded by Dainara and influenced heavily by his teachings, this codeset down indelibly the duties, responsibilities and prohibitions on the Betazed telepathy. The telepathic abilites were indeed a gift, but this gift had to be respected and used wisely, especially during the new ge of exploration and contact. The code ensured that the mistakes made during contact with the Terebians were not repeated.
After a century of rebuilding and forming new agreements with the Terebians, first contact with the federation occurred, and only shortly afterwards, Betazed applied for membership. Whilst this century or rebuilding and peace was seen as a near Utopia by the Betazed people, most welcomed entrance into the Federation, and the planet has ultimately benefited form its inclusion into the UFP. Since joining, the Betazed people have distinguished themselves in several fields and the Starfleet position of ships counsellor was made, specifically with the Betazoids in mind to fill that role. The talents of the Betazoids, plus their honest and outgoing natures, have gained them many friends across the Federation.
Unfortunately, there are still some races and people who do discriminate against Betazoids, and other telepathic creatures, but their is an extensive Federation program in operation, based in fact around Betazed, which helps to educate the average citizen about telepaths, and also help dispel any prejudice against telepathic powers they might have.
After many years of peace in the Federation, Betazed feel victim to the circumstances of war. It has always been a strategically important system, due to its closeness to both Earth and Vulcan, but it also lies near to the former Cardassian borders, and when war broke out with the Dominion, it was a prime target. The twelfth fleet, assigned to the Betazed sector, was mislead away form the planet, and a Dominion invasion force successfully managed to take over the system, which had very few of its own defences against such a force as that which the Dominion employed.
Betazed was occupied for greater that a year, and there was only one escape attempt which was known to be successfully, over half a billion citizens of the planet were murdered in prison facilities whilst experiments were done to test their telepathic powers. It is said that other teleptahic races on the other side of Federation space heard the scream of the planet.
Once again, today, the planet finds itself in a time of rebuilding, with Starfleet being called in to erect a new orbital space station, this has helped quell some of the fears that the federation could no longer protect the world. But it is a time of much unrest on the surface, and several anti-federation organizations are beginning top become apparent, most notably one calling themselves the Enlightened Mind Movement. This movement had been present on Betazed for some time, feeling that their planet is being ruined by the influences of other cultures alien to their own.
Members of the Enlightened Mind tend to have a somewhat xenophobic nature, and this leads them to feel its many alien visitors poison their planet. They feel that their people have forgotten the teaching of Dainara, and are forgetting the nature of the conflict with Terebia, fearing the same will happen with the federation. The EMM wishes Betazed to return to the golden age of the time before they joined the UFP, and unfortunately with the recent devastation from the Dominion occupation, their words are being heard by more and more people each day.
Whilst the EMM generally keeps to peaceful demonstrations, more extreme faction has been involved in terrorist activities, and Starfleet intelligence and fleet security have interfered with attempted assassinations. One such planned assassination of the prominent ambassador to earth Lwaxana Troi, was foiled just a few short weeks before the war with the Dominion broke out.
Society
The social organization of Betazed is a class-system, although there are no major gaps between 'poor' and 'wealthy'. The Noble Classes are a small chunk of the Betazoid population in which are believed to descend from the very first ancestorial Betazoids. The Noble Classes are then further divided into Houses, which are based on the gifts and values of the individuals.
Betazoid society tends toward more formal and elaborate traditions and ceremonies than most cultures in their present evolutionary stage. Some of the rites often make the more conservative Federation offworlder uneasy at first, most notably the traditional wedding ceremony in which no clothing is to be worn. Though there are no official gender-based restrictions in place within Betazoid society, women have traditionally held many positions of authority.
The Gender roles are on a 40/60 system. Males are considered less worthy and less intelligent as females, although most of the females are tolerant and considerably equal-minded. Females inherit family wealth, and they are often the head of households and families. Males can also hold those positions, and sometimes even government seats. The masculinity/femininity roles are not present in Betazoid culture, as males and females can vary in both intensity, competitiveness, strength, and powers.
Betazoids practice an old style of marriage arrangement called genetic bonding, wherein children are promised to each other for marriage later by their parents. On the same note, Betazoids are known for their ability to love more than one person without losing their ability to love their mate, nor are they bound by their marriage customs. Because marriage is a celebration of the act of love to Betazoids, the wedding ceremony itself is traditionally conducted without clothing of any sort. Though there are no official gender-based restrictions in place within Betazoid society, women have traditionally held many positions of authority.
Betazoids are a race of pacific philosophers who are more likely to observe than act, and consequently have little use for weapons or even defense systems. Their planetary defense system were outdated the moment they were finally in place and proved to be quite useless when the Dominion. Nonetheless, they are considered a major world of the Federation and their fall during the Dominion war in 2374 struck home the devastation that had eaten away at the Federation's formerly secure borders.
Culture
The Betazoid people appreciate fine arts, literature, and philosophy. Their culture is one of great beauty and an ancient history, with family records up to 40 generations.
Museums and Natural Beauty
Betazoids treasure art and especially natural beauty, and they love to portray nature and their inner feelings through music, natural abstract, and massive museums with art. Betazoids also encourage artistry, and their museums are set up so that a constant stream of new age music plays in the background. Although, they call it 'soul' music. The paintings are hung on a flat wall bent slightly downward so that you can view it easily, and every portrait or so has a comfortable contoured bench for meditation. Certain pictures are seperated by certain themes.
Types of Betazoid Art
Types of Betazoid art include natural beauty art, abstract natural beauty, empathic abstract, and plain abstract. Natural abstract is a mixture of natural tones that make out a discernable picture intermixed with a theme. Empathic abstract is art that displays very abstractly emotions and strong empathic fields. Plain abstract is just a free-for-all abstract painting iscerning anything from life to trees. Sculptures are also there, and many of them are also abstract.
Music of Betazoid
Music of Betazoid is very calm and soothing, and very surreal. It is a light mix of today's New Age, but with an organ sounding chime to it. The only true way to understand its music is to experience it.
Why That Kind of Art/Music
Betazoids thrive on inner thoughts and meditation, and usually that art can be soothing, calming, and very pleasing. They also express themselves through this kind of art/music, and it allows for creativity and originality in their culture. The music of Betazoid is flowing and simple, most calling it 'soul' music or just music. They have chants in ancient Betazoid language of course, complete with flowing melodies and soft tunes and beats.
Social Practices, Banquets, and Feasts
Betazoids love large crowds, and most banquets and socials held have large crowds. This is especially common amongst the noble classes and Houses. Regular Betazoids tend to prefer intelligent talk, and most don't engage in heavy joking and humor. They enjoy enlightening conversations also, and they often come out as quiet when really they are just talking through telepathy. Food served at banquets and feasts are supposedly very sundry and varied, allowing for many choices and preferences.
Food Consumption and Relevance
Food consumption is usually conducted in groups, and Betazoids usually never eat alone. If it is a richer family, the Betazoid family will have many banquets and social gatherings, sometimes inviting an excess of hundreds of guests. The sharing of a meal is considered sacred, and is marked with the constant ringing of a background Betazoid Chime, and marks great friendship with well-being.
Betazoid Chime
This small crystalline object is sometimes shaped like diamond or a triangle, and it is chimed against a small glass-like chalice or bowl filled with water during meals. It is supposed to mean thanking the gods for the meal and good fortune.
Types of Food and Uses
Betazoid food is varied greatly, and there are many different sources. They have breads, vegetation, berry and fruit-like sweets, and various meats. Betazoids tend to be more herbivorous then carnivorous, as large animals can be intimidating to kill.
- Breads is much like Earth food, containing breads and wheats. Betazoids have a special spaghetti-like dish called Raixen.
- Vegetation: includes leafy morsels and sometimes even flowers. An example is Oskoid, a favorite dish of many Betazoids, and is a delicacy.
- Berry and Fruit-Like Sweets: Uttaberries and swix are berry-like items found in jungles and some in fields. Uttaberries are red, and swix are purpleish. Swix can cause an allergic reaction in some Betazoids.
- Various Meats in the diet of Betazoids can sometimes range from small aves meat to large swine-like meat. There are a few carnivorous predators that have supposedly superb tasting meat, but can only be obtained in jungles.
Meditation
Betazoids meditate often, and use a focal point to focus their energy. The benefits of this can be extreme immunity from pain or even death, and it allows for more bodily control.
Gift-Bearing
Usually, when a Betazoid gives an eleborate gift to someone that is very special to them, they will place it into a special box and give it to them in that. The box usually has a face on it that can show emotion, and it can sometimes be very elaborate and expensive. This is especially associated with Genetic Bonding.
Painting of Ancestors
As the generations of a Noble Household progress farther and farther in lineage, each daughter is painted at the age of 40 in a painting a little larger then the last predecessor. This shows how the past becomes less and less memorable, yet will always be there. Some of the ancient paintings are extremely large, some taking up entire rooms and even houses themselves.
Preservation of Body
Only recently, in the past 600 years or so, have Betazoids taken the practice of preserving deceased loved ones in special chemicals that help the body last for generations. This is most common in the Houses, as few lower level citizens have the room to hold such sacred items.
The Visitation
These are a series of remembrances that take place after the death of a family member and friend. Those that are closest to the dead person gather at a series of meetings, one held at six weeks after the death, another after the sixth month, and another for every three years afterwards. During the ceremony, the participants remember the deceased and share strong telepathic fields with each other.
Attitudes About Sex and Marriage
Betazoids often are capable of loving more then one person at the same time, yet also in a very deep way. This makes them unique in Xenology, and it is sometimes attributed to the empathic lobe of their brains. The females of the Betazoid population treasure the males as more 'playmates' when it comes to sex, but many of them also hold it to be a sacred event of bonding. Most don't hold sex as the primary reason for having children. Instead, they look deeper into the bonding and intense telepathic experience.
Wedding Ceremony
The proper Betazoid wedding is rich with symbolism. It is customary that all people, guests and participants, attend the ceremony nude, to symbolize that, physically and spiritually, there is nothing to hide, that all are sharing in complete cooperation in the spirit of harmony and unity. The ceremony itself is also rich in symbolism. The groom walks in, followed by his mother, who pulls on his arm, trying to stop him. The groom keeps walking, and his father steps into his path, holding up a hand in a signal for the groom to stop. The groom gently but firmly pushes his father out of the way and walks to the front of the room. At this point, the bride's parents enter, the bride's mother sobbing loudly. The bride sits in the front row. A woman who is equivalent to a maid-of-honor enters and walks up to the bride, saying "I summon you to the place of marriage." She then escorts the bride to the side of the groom and the ceremony proceeds. The bride wears a white band in her hair, which she tosses over her shoulder to a crowd of waiting women, much like the Terran tradition of tossing the bridal bouquet. To the woman that catches the band, it means that the love of her life is at the gathering.
Education
Betazoids start school early in life, and the earliest schooling is set up in a nurturing setting with many adults and positive influences. Strong artistic and mental skills are established at this time, and all younger Betazoids are subject to preliminary trances and methods of relaxation. At middle school, the earlier developers of telepathy are often sent to alternate schools to help them deal with their powers and often stronger influences. The norm of society, although, is taught at this time about their own minds and learn more complex functions. At later schooling, prior to the high school equivalent, they develop the first telepathic skills. They learn more and more, and eventually, they master most of their skills. The skills vary, of course, and the parents at this time become more open to their children and often share strong bonding experiences with their kin.
Code of Sentience
Betazoids also have a strict code of ethics regarding use of their telepathy with alien species, known as the Code of Sentience. Much of this stems from their history. When Betazoids first ventured into space, they made contact with the Terabin, the people of a nearby world. The relationship was friendly at first, however the Terabin began to mistrust Betazoids for their use of telepathy. Betazoids on the Terabin worlds were rounded up and placed in internment camps, and a brief war ensued.
As a result of that first encounter, Betazoids use their telepathy with extreme discretion. They would never use their abilities to invade another person's private thoughts, and what they do see remains private unless absolutely necessary. Betazoid telepathy and empathy are also typically receptive in regards to non-telepathic species. While projecting directed thoughts to a non-telepath is possible, it requires concentration, and often a receptive mind to be successful.
Naturally, some Betazoids are stronger telepathically than others and would have greater success; however, the Code of Sentience, the Betazoid code of ethics regarding telepathy, also applies. It would be just as unethical to intrude into another being's mind to -leave- a thought, as it would be to invade and read their private thoughts.
The Houses of Betazed
The Houses of Betazed is the top most social class of Betazed society. All of the individuals in this class are considered to be actual descendents of ancestral Betazoids. The Houses of Betazoids are numbered, and they can also be classified in the qualities that the Houses are supposed to hold. There are a total of about 13 seperate houses, based on ancestor and qualities.
Spirituality
The Betazoids are a highly spiritual people. Their spiritualism guides them every day. Their mythology centers around the Four Deities, which also represent four apsects of Betazoid life. These four deities are not anthropomorphic, but rather spiritual concepts that they worship and adhere to.
The Four Deities are named after the Betazoid words for the spiritual concepts: Altha (Peace/Stability), Imza (Love/Compassion), Fana (Nature), Tholta (Truth/Honesty). While all four have equal 'weight' as deities, there exists a structure to them in a diamond shape. At the top is Altha. Imza and Tholta are the middle points of the diamond, for without Truth and Love, there can be no peace and stability. The bottom point is Fana, or Nature, symbolizing the roots of the faith. Two central points represent the 'base' of the Betazoid civilized society. The bottom point of the diamond's association to the natural is a reminder that it is something that is often a delicate balance.