Ishtar

Departmento Cartographicae pict-file of Ishtar

A habitable world has a Taiga topography. Several species of tree were introduced to the planet by human terraformers thousands years ago. Since then, the trees have virtually taken over the entire planet. The most successful species are pine trees, and pine forests now cover the entire northern hemisphere, making life extremely difficult for native lifeforms. There are no oceans or continents, but the surface is littered with lakes and small seas. The planet maintains two kinds of cities, grand walker observation platforms of the noble and small villages of the commoners. The nobles here are the highest strata of society for the subsector.

## Biosphere

Ishtar was terraformed thousands of years ago by human colonists. It boasts a topography primarily resembling a Taiga, featuring vast forests and a multitude of lakes and small seas. The forests are dominated by pine trees, which were introduced to the planet and have since spread across the northern hemisphere.

Ishtar's weather patterns, influenced by its terraformed landscapes and introduced ecosystems, contribute to the planet's distinctive environment. The average temperature on Ishtar varies depending on the region. In the Taiga-dominated northern hemisphere, the temperatures can range from cool to cold, with winter months experiencing snowfall. The southern hemisphere tends to have milder temperatures and less temperature variation throughout the year. Ishtar is not prone to extreme weather events like hurricanes or typhoons. However, it can experience regular rainstorms and thunderstorms, particularly in the summer months. These storms help replenish the planet's freshwater sources. Dense forests in the northern hemisphere, especially around the noble estates, often give rise to morning and evening fog.

### Minor Flora and Fauna

* **Vorathian Pine**: A tall evergreen tree native to the taiga-covered northern hemisphere of Ishtar. The Vorathian Pine is known for its resilient wood, which is highly sought after for its use in crafting Ishtar Ranger's long las rifle stocks.

* **Crimson Moss**: This bioluminescent moss covers the forest floor and emits a soft crimson glow during the night, providing a natural source of illumination for the Ishtar Rangers. It is often used as a tactical tool during nighttime operations.

* **Whispering Ferns**: These delicate ferns are prized for their sound-dampening properties. Ishtar Rangers often use them to construct ghillie suits, making themselves nearly invisible when moving through the forest.

* **Silvershade Lichen**: This lichen grows on the bark of trees and is known for its silvery hue. It is used by the Ishtar Rangers to enhance their camouflaging gear.

* **Shadewind Stalkers**: These large, feline predators are native to the dense forests of Ishtar. Shadewind Stalkers are known for their stealth and agility, making them elusive and deadly creatures. Ishtar Rangers often study their hunting techniques for inspiration in their own operations.

* **Emberskulk Raptors**: These small, bird-like creatures are known for their vibrant plumage. The birds are highly sensitive to disturbances and react loudly to any approaching threat.

* **Craghorn Elk**: Large herbivores found in the hilly regions of Ishtar.

* **Sylvan Whisperers**: These small, insect-like creatures create harmonic, melodic sounds with their wings that are often used to mask the Rangers' movement during covert operations. They are considered a good omen by the Rangers.

* **Luminescent Otters**: These aquatic creatures are known for their bioluminescent fur, which provides a soft blue glow underwater.

## Culture

Ishtar is primarily governed by an aristocratic elite composed of noble houses. These nobles wield significant influence and wealth, often engaging in political maneuvering, social events, and various power struggles within the planet's ruling class. The nobility often organizes hunting parties and competitions, where they hunt exotic creatures brought to the planet for such purposes. The nobility inhabits grand walker observation platforms that are mobile cities. These enormous, towering structures allow the noble elite to move above the hostile pine forests and avoid the territorial dominance of these trees. These walker cities serve as both homes and symbols of social status. Ishtar's natural beauty and the peculiarities of its culture have attracted tourists from other planets in the sub-sector. Visitors come to witness the grand hunts, experience the lush landscapes, and participate in various leisure activities provided by the nobility.

## History

Ishtar's history begins with its early settlement in the Age of Technology. Terraforming and colonization efforts began on this remote world, transforming it into a habitable planet. Its unique landscape, characterized by vast forests dominated by aggressive pine trees, posed significant challenges for its inhabitants. Ishtar became known for its grand hunting parties and extravagant events organized by the noble houses. These events drew visitors from other planets in the sub-sector and beyond, seeking the thrill of hunting exotic creatures and the allure of the planet's peculiar culture.