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=Nralakk Federation Enforcement=
The Nralakk Federation’s ''Enforcers'', or '''Kala''', are responsible for upholding the security and law of skrell space. Functioning under a centralised structure, the Kala are governed by a supervisory body known as the Nralakk Federation Security Commission (NFSC). The NFSC’s doctrines revolve around mobility, flexibility and precision. Presently, the Kala maintains two core objectives: firstly, ensuring the safety, security and cooperation of all systems under the Federation’s flag, and protecting their borders; secondly, protecting the national security of the Federation from foreign nations and groups, as well as proactively gathering intelligence on both their allies and their adversaries.


= Tattuqig =  
==History==
Tattuqig is a primarily swampy moon, found orbiting a gas giant in the Ghialok system in the [[Notable_Skrell_Systems_and_Locations#Estuaries|Estuaries]] of the Traverse. The tropical, boggy environment of Tattuqig hosts extensive fossils and traces of its past ecologies, with extensive archaeological efforts still underway. Tattuqig’s exotic atmospheric composition hosts a permanent fog on its surface, where psionic predators stalk for their prey and skrell alike. Its hostile wildlife and weather makes Tattuqig notably dangerous, and one of the few with travel advisories outside of the Traverse.
The origins of the centralised skrell security community begins at the conclusion of the War of Tides, and subsequent formation of the Commonwealth of Three in 901 CE. The Tzqul Republic, Heshqu Council and Weishqi Republic, who had previously all handled their own internal affairs, created the '''Commonwealth Internal Security Committee (CISC)''' as an international policing and intelligence agency. The national rivalries within the CISC laid the foundation for significant inefficiencies and failures in its short history, leading to uncontainable conflicts in the newly established outer colonies. With the formation of the First Nralakk Federation in 878 CE, the Grand Councillor engaged in widespread purges of the CISC, and reformed the organisation into a force of separate Kala, loyal to the Grand Council.


== History ==
The reign of [[Skrell_Synthetic_Age#Late_Synthetic_Age|Glorsh-Omega]] led to the gradual disbandment of the existing Kala in favour of automated security drones under the AI’s direct control, with skrell collaborators not placed in enforcement positions due to their inefficiencies in engaging with Glorsh’s esoteric risk assessment programmes. Following the Tri-Qyu Calamity in 2192 CE, and the formation of the Second Nralakk Federation in 2245 CE, the new federal government recruited the Lyukal cells deemed most disciplined and loyal to Federation ideals, forming a new security and intelligence organisation to aid in the reformation of the now fractured skrell space, and train new generations of Kala to make up this organisation. Among the first duties of these proto-Kala was to reestablish societal order in the [[Notable_Skrell_Systems_and_Locations#The_Core_System_:_Nralakk|Core Systems]], enforce the recent blanket ban on all forms of artificial intelligence, and rebuild the Federation’s immense surveillance network.


Tattuqig was discovered pre-[[Skrell_Synthetic_Age#Reign_of_Glorsh-Omega|Synthetic Age]], with colonization only taking place well afterwards in 2267 due to the Nralakk Federation’s collapse post-synthetic age. Tattuqig’s colonial efforts were made with newer Federation colonial policies, cognizant of X'Lu'oa leaving the species’s future precarious, with manned drones and prefabricated habitats to be constructed pre-landfall.  
The rapid recovery of the Federation meant that the existing, decentralised Kala structure became bloated and inefficient with the ever-expanding Federation frontier. Grand Councillor [[Notable_Skrell#Rixa_Tep-Wul|Rixa Teq-Wul]] reorganised the Kala under two new agencies, the '''Directories of Internal and External Security (DIES)''', which would operate independently of one another and report directly to the Grand Councillor. Ultimately, this led to the two agencies competing with one another for prominence and funding, sabotaging the other’s reputation through a number of covert actions throughout the early 2400s, with some prominent anti-Federation individuals claiming that [[Federation_Crime_and_Resistance#Marauders|Marauder]] groups were funded to fuel this rivalry. Additionally, the '''Wukala''' were created from the ranks of the most loyal Kala as political operatives protecting Federation ideals. The election of Grand Councillor [[Notable_Skrell#Weashbi_Jrugl|Weashbi Jrugl]] in 2453 came with the formation of an oversight organisation to unify the security services, the '''Nralakk Federation Security Commission (NFSC)''', which was staffed with the Grand Councillor’s allies, though the Wukala would remain independent of the Commission and retain their autonomy due to the influence of the High Prefect.


Preliminary probes in the 1630s identified Tattuqig’s electromagnetic fields as notably stronger than the fields around Qerrbalak and the other colonies, though this information was lost until the first colonization efforts in 2254. Trouble began when the colony’s prefabricated habitats and manned drones malfunctioned, and failed to properly deploy before the colonists arrived. New designs had to be developed that could withstand the electromagnetic interference, and more equipment had to be shipped from the inner systems before construction could resume and the colonists could safely make landfall.  
In recent history, the prominence of the Kala has only grown as domestic and foreign troubles led to their expanding powers and political relevance. Within the Traverse region, the problematic handling of the Kala created many critics of Grand Councillor Jrugl’s security policies amongst the rank-and-file Kala, though officials in the Directories are hesitant to report this dissidence for fear of being punished themselves. Both the phoron scarcity, and the recent foreign policy changes by the Grand Council, have also created some dissent within the Kala, who disapprove immensely of overreliance on the megacorporations. However, High Prefect Eluteluk has remained publicly supportive of their Grand Councillor, dissuading any serious protest within the Federation’s security apparatus.


By 2267, the colonists arrived at their designated landing site, intended to be a transportation hub to lessen the logistical burden from supplying the outer colonies. The establishment of the first outposts revealed one of the skrell’s biggest discoveries before first contact with humankind, which was evidence of more sentient life developing within the Orion Spur.  
==Nralakk Federation Security Commission==
The Nralakk Federation Security Commission serves as the umbrella organisation containing the myriad of different security and intelligence agencies. The Commission, and by extension the entirety of the Nralakk Federation’s vast security apparatus, is chaired by the Grand Councillor, although they will appoint a Commissioner to oversee the daily operations of the organisation in their place. To be the Commissioner of the NFSC is one of the highest honours a skrell can achieve, acting as the trusted hand of their Grand Councillor. Commissioners almost always veterans across a broad range of security and intelligence fields and afforded Idol status, they are also given a position on the Grand Council as the Grand Advisor of Security and Intelligence.  


Federation scientific communities were shocked at the prospect of intelligent life developing close to their territories, in comparison to Diona being sentient but having arrived from outside of the Orion Spur due to their lack of zona bovinae. Tattuqig’s discoveries were monumental, with the research efforts embedding themselves into the colony soon after, and expeditions were organised to discover more sites belonging to this ancient, absent civilisation.  
The Commission is composed of the Grand Councillor, the Commissioner, the Directors of Internal and External Security, select Grand Council Enforcers, and other intelligence and security experts from various sectors. The current Commissioner is '''Tariqale'miluz Odakizu''', a well-known academic and lecturer in Federation security and law, with an extensive background experience as the Executive Director of External Security during first contact with humanity.


Preserved villages deep within the peat swamps of Tattuqig were discovered soon after, with their level of preservation allowing archaeologists to gain insight into their culture, society, and technological level of the planet’s old inhabitants with extreme clarity. Although the remains of the civilisation were well-preserved, no bodies were ever discovered at any of the sites, considered an anomaly that baffles anthropologists to this day.
===Council Enforcers===
[[File:Srom.PNG|thumb|right|200px|The emblem of the Council Enforcers.]]
Independent of the Nralakk Federation’s security community, the '''Wuqrnjeqkala''', shortened to '''Wukala''' (and translating to Council Enforcers), are planetary council-appointed Kala who enforce disciplinary action at the discretion of the councillors they are assigned to. While being a Wukala member is a prestigious position which grants Index rating bonuses, Idol status is never awarded out of an interest in keeping the operatives relatively anonymous. Wukala operatives focus on domestic crime and suppression of anti-Federation actions, and are granted access to the Federation's internal surveillance systems to oversee their assigned region. The Qekala work closely with Wukala intelligence to enforce the law, with direct responses from the Wukala only appearing in the event that immediate detainment or capture is necessary, particularly when their persons-of-interest attempt to flee the planet, or evade sentencing and/or reeducation. Unlike those of the inner systems, the Wukala of the Traverse’s planetary councils are appointed by the Qu’Wukala instead of their respective planetary councillor, and are given a wider licence than their inner system counterparts to ensure the loyalty of their ward. This allows the Traverser Wukala full control of the security apparatus in their planetary council, which is most often exercised in the form of combatting infiltration by anti-Federation elements, and ensuring corruption is kept to a minimum. Due to their important role, and the danger a subversive Wukala could possess, Traverser Wukala are always loyalty implanted.


Beyond the civilization remnants and strong electromagnetic field, the colonists discovered another distinct feature in the form of a thick fog that covered the majority of the surface. Originally considered an obstacle to their visibility, the colonists soon found that the fog was home to adapted predators. Strings of disappearances occurred in the months post-landing, pinned on the local wildlife with a specific species preying upon skrell. The creature was described by eyewitnesses as monstrous, burly, and with grey, marble-esque skin. This creature would stalk unaware skrell as they became separated from others, with only a telltale bellowing heard before they pounced. Using a '''Neaera''', another animal native to Tattuqig as bait, a specimen was captured for study.
====Grand Council Enforcers====
The '''Qu'Wuqrnjeqkala''', shortened to '''Qu’Wukala''' (and translating to Grand Council Enforcers), are the personal agents of the Grand Councilor and the Grand Council's highest members. Qu'Wukala operatives are tasked with providing the security details for their assigned wards, council members, protection of the Nralakk Federation's secure assets, and the completion of any requested tasks from the Grand Council itself. Unlike their sibling Kala, operatives of the Qu'Wukala are allowed their Idol statuses, and are touted alongside their wards as being among the highest echelons of the Federation. Rumors of the Qu'Wukala being utilised as assassins, rather than their official role as intelligence agents and bodyguards, are dismissed as overtly ridiculous conspiracy theories. The leader of both the Qu’Wukala, and to an extent, all planetary Wukala, is High Prefect Eluteluk Dozopil-Raqirztzlip, who has held their position long before Grand Councillor Weashbi Jrugl’s ascension. Thanks to the great power held by the Qu’Wukala, the High Prefect is rumoured by many in [[Starlight_Zone|Biesel’s]] resistance circles to be the puppetmaster of the young and relatively inexperienced Jrugl to control the entire nation, and uses their enforcers to ensure their position is secured.


Named the '''Fog Crawler''' by Tattuqig’s colonists, fog crawlers are hulking, reptilian species that utilizes psionics to hunt prey while hidden in the dense fog. The sudden influx of skrell caused a shift in the planet’s Nlom, resulting in the fog crawlers hunting skrell due to their psionic signatures being stronger than its usual prey. While hostile xenofauna is not unheard of by skrell colonists, the thick fog causing visibility issues, and the strong electromagnetic field making most advanced forms of machinery unavailable meant they were left vulnerable. The discovery of the fog crawlers led to Tattuqig being given exemption from Federation gun laws, allowing the colonists to organise patrols and sentries for self-defense of settlements. In response, the settlers established the '''Roaming Routes''', a mapped series of alternating paths through the fog that they used to move across the planet. The '''Ubulreak Corps''' were also formed, being tasked with tracking and keeping the Fog Crawlers from attacking inhabited areas or the roaming routes between settlements.
===Directory of Internal Security===
The Nralakk Federation’s vast networks of surveillance networks and enforcers are controlled by the '''Directory of Internal Security (NFDIS)''', which is one of the largest organs of the government. Due to the substantial size of the Federation’s domestic security operations, the NFDIS is divided into planetary administrative divisions called Districts, which have a vast amount of autonomy from the NFDIS itself, instead receiving their directives from their respective planetary council. The inherent fluidity of the NFDIS means that all Kalas are essentially of equal importance with no staggering, beyond that the Districts themselves are ultimately led by their District Director. Below that, the number of divisions and their sizes is dependent on the given planet’s proximity to the Nralakk system, but the universal base unit is a Station, which contains the necessary facilities to oversee the entire security of a rural region or city. Within individual Stations, structure is fluid without a consistent hierarchy, where a Kala may be elevated to lead for a period of time, or until a task is completed, if it is considered necessary by the unit. The DIS is currently led by Executive Director '''Gelqai'nelusa Iqo'ujin''', the former District Director of Qerrbalak, and a veteran in the internal security apparatus known for their integrity and numerous successful anti-corruption campaigns within the Kala.


Tattuqig was left to its own devices by the Nralakk Federation until 2332 after first contact with Humanity, with [[Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals]] taking an interest in Tattuqig's ecosystem, who proposed a deal with the Nralakk Federation to establish a presence on the Tattuqig in return for aiding the funding of all scientific endeavours conducted planetside. While initially only interested in the flora and fauna of the planet, Zeng-Hu took an interest in Tattuqig's archaeological findings, and set up their own branch of xenoarchaeologists. The sudden influx of outside groups on Tattuqig led to the establishment of '''Fog Wardens''', an unofficial group that dedicates itself to protecting Tattuqif from potentially damaging practices by the humans working here.
====Domestic Surveillance====
[[File:Ruup.PNG|thumb|right|200px|The emblem of the Wake and Dream Enforcers.]]
The Nlomkala are the eyes and ears of the Federation are found at every level of society, to the point of being (erroneously) remarked by non-Federation citizens that every electronic appliance is outfitted with hidden cameras feeding directly to the Nlomkala. In reality, the pervasive surveillance in the Federation is an open, accepted part of life to feed information to the Social Compatibility Index, and ensure the Federation’s economy continues to operate. This vast network is overseen by '''Nlomkala''', or Wake Enforcers. The sheer scale of the Nlomkala’s operations makes them one of the largest employment sectors in the nation, with C’thur vaurca and dionae employed in high level positions alongside skrell. The '''Sromkala''', or Dream Enforcers, are a specialized division of the Nlomkala with [[Skrell#Psionics|high psionic aptitude]], with agents placed close to Nlom Relays in order to amplify their capabilities to monitor the Wake. A common belief is that every Nlom Relay in the Federation contains at least one Sromkala agent within a cryogenic pod to suspend their body, while still allowing their consciousness to continue working within Srom.  


Tattuqig was one of many Traverse colonies involved in the [[Warbling_:_The_Traverse_Strikes_Back|exodus]] following Grand Councillor Weashbi Jrugl's victory in the 2463 primary elections. Most disgruntled colonists followed candidate [[Notable_Skrell#Kalq’Qi_Weibii|Kalq'Qi Weibii]] to the Republic of Biesel, and eventually forming the [[Starlight Zone]]. While the actual number of fleeting Tattuqigan colonists was small, the impact of the exodus was still noticeable. Scientists, educators, labourers, and many other specialized workers needed for a functioning colony left in droves, causing many settlements to collapse, no longer able to support themselves. Those who remained on Tattuqig resent the exodus for its impact on the planet, especially by those who had to abandon their homes, and are considered responsible for the pro-Federation alignment of the planet, though that is at odds with the colony's lack of support and its poor status.
====Law Enforcement====
== Government ==
[[File:Nlom.PNG|thumb|right|200px|The emblem of the Wake and Dream Enforcers.]]
The '''Qekala''', or Home Enforcers, are the fist of the Federation’s security apparatus in skrell space. Only a fourth of the NFDIS is made up of Qekala operatives, who are responsible for general policework. The Qekala’s regular operations include regular patrols, providing security presence, warrant execution, emergency response, and have a significant portion of its staff dedicated towards intelligence and surveillance. Aspiring Qekala members are placed under rigorous scrutiny, testing athletic ability, legal knowledge, and general capability to respond with correct force and procedure. Qekala members are expected to operate amphibiously across multiple environments across the myriad environments in the Nralakk Federation. Non-skrell members, like the C’thur warriors of Vytel’s Brood, are employed in limited numbers for vaurca-majority regions. These Warriors are implanted with a loyalty implant, which equalises the Federation's orders to the same priority as a Queen's, with conflict of interests forcing a warrior to hibernate until resolved.  


Tattuqig's capital city is Aujaq'wesi, located on the planet’s central island, and is one of the largest settlements on the planet. Governor '''Tarqi Plaqo''' has governed the colony since its inception, although they hold little power outside of the capital due to the fog-induced isolation. This is exacerbated by the strong electromagnetic field making most long-range communications and travel unavailable, leaving the other islands working autonomously from the government.
In the Traverse region, Qekala are exclusively recruited from the planets they are stationed on, creating concerns for conflicts of interest between the Federation and their homes. Consequently, the Traverser Qekala receive much lower funding and equipment than their inner system counterparts, alongside higher scrutiny in their operations, with the NFDIS requiring intense loyalty and background checks on potential recruits. Alongside this, the day-to-day operations of the Qekala are not controlled by their planetary council, but rather the Wukala of said council, in order to ensure loyalty to the Federation is prioritised above all else.


The planet consists of four regions:
===Directory of External Security===
While the Nralakk Federation maintains ample protection of internal security against domestic agitators, they recognise that foreign actors are now a much greater threat in the modern day, with foreign influence even affecting the Traverser rebels during the [[The_Phoron_Scarcity:_Skrell_Arc|Q’elpi]] [[Change_on_the_Horizon_Arc|Systems]] crisis. The '''Directory of External Security (NFDES)''' is the first line of defence against this ever present concern, handling all matters which could affect the Federation from outside its borders. The NFDES is divided into three Sections, which are the Intelligence Section, Covert Actions Section, and Defence Section. Below that, the NFDES operates the same non-hierarchical structure used by their internal security counterparts, although the Defence Section is an exception. The NFDES is currently led by Executive Director '''Ripalji Guyuo''', a former operative of the Covert Actions Section, and close associate of Weashbi Jrugl, ascending to replace their predecessor immediately after Jrugl’s appointment.


'''Aujaq Region''' - Named after the planet's capital, the Aujaq Region consists of the two central islands of Tattuqig , as well as its capital city of Qaroq'xlip. The region is responsible for the administration and cross-planetary infrastructure of the Tattuqig, with its position making it ideal for its role. Both major cities work against the isolating conditions the colony deals with. Aujaq'wesi, being the capital, is responsible for the administration and coordination of the other islands, with Qaroq'xlip being a vital port that ensures long-distance sea travel is possible.
====Foreign Operations====
[[File:Tup.PNG|thumb|right|200px|The emblem of the Covert Enforcers.]]
The prestigious Intelligence and Covert Actions Sections serve as the Federation’s first line of defence against foreign threats, maintaining offices for every nation in the Spur. These two Sections conduct their activities under the umbrella category of Foreign Operations, and work in tandem to perform the widest berth of duties of any security organisation. These duties include intelligence gathering, counter-intelligence, and monitoring skrell outside of the Federation (both citizen and not), all handled by the '''Ruupkala''', or Intelligence Enforcers. Charged with maintaining networks of undercover operatives in foreign national organisations, and assassinations—though no assassination attempt has ever been confirmed to have been approved by the Nralakk Federation—are the '''Tupkala''', or Covert Enforcers. This position at the forefront of skrell security has made the Foreign Operations component of the NFDES a highly desirable position for well-performing citizens, and is a valuable pathway towards a successful political career. The Ruupkala are rumored to monitor the fabled “Drylist,” which supposedly holds the names of all skrell living abroad who have performed deductive behaviors against the Nralakk Federation, displayed worrying ideals, joined an opposing faction, or renounced their citizenship. Some theorize that this list even covers non-skrell who may pose a threat to the Federation. The Drylist, however, remains an openly debunked conspiracy theory by the Nralakk Federation, and no official list has ever been discovered or produced.


'''Mo'qa'Noa Region''' - Named after the Mo'qa'Noa ice sheets and the two islands closest to it, the region sees the most Zeng-Hu activity due to the number of ruins surrounding it. The investment by Zeng-Hu allowed more development to the region’s settlements, giving it a semblance of life closer to that of [[Notable_Skrell_Systems_and_Locations#The_Contingent_Systems:_The_Second_Waves|Contingent Systems]]. The region is considered much safer than most of Tattuqig, but the terrain on these islands leaves little room for expansion.
====Defence====
[[File:Qukala.PNG|thumb|right|200px|The emblem of the Star Enforcers.]]
The Defence Section is regarded by most within the skrell security community as an unfortunate necessity to combat piracy in the less civilised Traverse, other border regions, and frontiers. The '''Qukala''', or Star Enforcers, make up the Defence Section and are organised unlike their sibling Kala, where their various ship departments maintain senior Lead Enforcers who form a council structure to command their given vessel without a designated captain. Unlike other navies who operate a permanent fleet structure, each Qukala vessel is subordinate to the Defence Section itself, which may organise patrol groups and temporary task forces as needed. The Qukala have a very poor standing in the Traverse, where they are most widespread and responsible for enforcing an extensive anti-piracy mandate—being viewed by many Traversers as unnecessary military policing. This reputation has not left the Defence Section unscathed, and is reflected in its relatively small size, equipment, and funding compared to other branches of Federal security, and a miniscule force when compared to their Solarian neighbours. The lack of interest in the Defence Section has since been capitalised on by the C’thur Hive, particularly Queen Vytel, as vaurca warriors are perfectly suited to EVA operations, as well as acting as an intimidating force against pirates. These C’thuric Warriors have a Federation-designed loyalty implant much like their Qekala siblings. Although the injection of C’thur warriors has been an undeniable success, the effort was not enough to prevent the Federation’s [[The_Phoron_Scarcity:_Skrell_Arc|recent]] [[Change_on_the_Horizon_Arc|embarrassments]] in the Traverse region. Aside from their regular duties, the Qukala are responsible for providing the security for Federation embassies, consulates, and diplomats serving abroad.


'''Kanosak Region''' - Named after the Kanosak mountain range on the northern island, the region includes Kanosak Point, a dormant volcano, and Ublureak'qwip. With higher Fog Crawler sightings, the region is most known for the Ublureak Corps, who maintain the city of Ublureak'qwip as their headquarters. Kanosak Point and Ublureak'qwip act as landmarks for the most northern and southern points where skrell can safely inhabit the island, with most areas north of the mountain range deemed inhospitable, while the lands south of Ublureak'qwip are too encased in fog for permanent settlements to be built.  
Following the reforms agreed upon by the now-defunct Independent Traverser Movement and the Federation, the NFSC was tasked with training a local defence force comprised of loyal volunteers in the Traverse with the aim of providing some relief to overextended Qukala forces in anti-piracy operations. To accomplish the creation of this auxiliary force, Qukala stationed in the Traverse began recruiting, organising, and training forces of loyal Traversers which would be called the Qehalak, or Homeguard. An individual Qehalak is typically a part-time reservist for the Federation’s frontier, who is expected to pick up arms and assist any Kala when called upon, however in Traverse Councils with a small Kala presence, Qehalak can be organised into full-time border security, under the guidance of a senior Qukala attaché.


'''Tartok Mesa Region''' - Consisting of Tartok'qlip and the surrounding area, the region remains undeveloped outside of its sole city, acting as a vital link between Tattuqig and the rest of the Federation. The mesa on which Tartok'qlip is built on is high enough to not be encased in fog, allowing for the building of spaceports.
====Naval Structure====
The Nralakk Federation’s military ships are designed primarily around extremely long-ranged engagement, with any deployed strikecraft consisting of psionically-piloted remote drones and the vanishingly-rare boarding craft. Built for responding against piracy and irregular anti-government actions, the average fleet strength of the Federation is miniscule in comparison to the immense fleets of the Solarian Alliance and similar human nations, with most non-Federation members having only seen the Qukala’s navy on border patrol sorties and the single deployment of the [[The_Beauchamp_Arc|short-sightedly designed NFV Qheles]]. While this lens is unflattering for the Federation’s perception of military strength, the sheer size of the nation’s claims still necessitates a sizable fleet to secure them, which remains no small feat when contending with domestic and foreign piracy.


== Environment ==
The Traverse’s Qehalak fleets, in comparison to the Qukala’s own, are considerably smaller. Consisting of retrofitted Qukala naval vessels and militarized civilian craft, the Qehalak’s fleet strength is more consistently tested by the more organized Marauder vessels that plague the skrell frontier. This independence from the Inner Systems’ more organized security structure has bred new tactics out of sheer necessity, with more eccentric and underhanded tactics being adopted to compensate.
Due to Tattuqig’s atmospheric composition and orbital position to its star, the planet is primarily tropical wetlands, with a dense fog that recedes seasonally. The planet is dominated by nutrient-rich soil, hosting a diverse range of flora and fauna that forms its highly active ecosystem. Most of Tattuqig’s positive characteristics are unable to be exploited by the Federation due to the fog. The oceans of Tattuqig, while mostly unexplored, are potentially ecologically diverse.
In lieu of Tattuqig’s potential industry, its swamp gases remain its primary export, with its availability and simple extraction making it easily exploited. Tattuqig is one of the biggest suppliers of natural gas, with natural gas primarily used in less developed colonies, making it an important export for settlements on the fringes of the Traverse.
 
==Economy==
Tattuqig’s economic weight in the Nralakk Federation is considered negligible, being seen as a poorer Traverse colony and poor prospects for future development. The primary exports of the planet consists of food and scientific research, with the neaera being a recently widely-accepted culinary addition to skrell cuisine. Ranching and harvesting neaera is the second most well-known feature of Tattuqig, with every single part of the animal considered delicious and usable. Scientific endeavours and research data remains the primary draw to Tattuqig, with Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals maintaining an exclusive deal in funding all research efforts in return for being the sole corporate presence on the planet. Federation-backed researchers are a common sight as visitors and tourists, with the applications of Tattuqig’s wildlife and its ruins drawing in enough outsiders to keep its local service industry afloat.
=== Wildlife ===
 
'''Oom’Tiiriq (Fog Crawlers)'''
 
The infamous predator of Tattuqig, Fog Crawlers grow to almost 2.4 meters in height upright, and can weigh as much as 110 kilogram, with its skin described as similar to an alligator’s, being particularly rough and thick. Fog Crawlers are bipedal and have four arms to clutch their prey. When not hunting, they are organized in prides of ten to twelve individuals, with the pride dividing itself into hunting pairs that coordinate through their psionic abilities. A carnivorous species, the Oom'Tiiriq is considered a threat to the skrell on Tattuqig, and is the reason why the planet has been given private gun ownership allowances to its inhabitants.
 
'''Neaera (Tree Lurkers)'''
 
Tree Lurkers are one of the most common animals on Tattuqig, resembling an amphibious primate. They inhabit the dense forests of the planet, utilising its powerful leap and adhesive grip to avoid predators on the forest floor. They grow to almost a meter in height, and weigh around 20 kilograms, and form troops of twenty to thirty. The species is wildly popular for its culinary uses, being incorporated in skrell cuisine as a new-found staple of their diet, causing it to be a prized export.
 
'''Tupiq’Sir-Qii (Root Grazers)'''
 
Root Grazers are speculated to be another extremely common species on Tattuqig, but remain elusive with their natural camouflage and small stature. They regularly grow up to thirty centimetres in length, with collected specimens weighing roughly one kilogram. Root Grazers resemble crustaceans, closely resembling Qerrbalak’s buurgis, and Earth’s horseshoe crab. They are herbivorous and opportunistically carnivorous, regularly eating roots and insects. While solitary outside of the mating season, they tend to congregate around fresh corpses, potentially being carrion-feeders.
 
'''Ar'vr Teferb (Screaming Bulbs)'''
 
The Screaming Bulbs are a treasured specimen of Tattuqig. When flowering, Screaming Bulbs will grow six, bright blue bioluminescent bulbs on each of its three stalks, which slowly balloon before bursting with a noise reported as long, drawn-out screams. Cultivated specimens are grown for the gasses they produce, which produce vibrant blue flames when ignited. These gases are used as lamppost fuel along the Roaming Routes and aboard sea vessels, with their bright light cutting through the fog to make it easier to navigate between settlements.
 
'''Gikiluak (Qhulyin Mushrooms)'''
 
Gikiluak are bright red fungi that primarily parasitize foliage, found in particularly dark and damp environments. It hardens around its host plant as it envelops it, using it as structural support.  After suffocating its host, the mature fungus begins to produce fruiting bodies to release spores to the wind. It is considered a pest by the Tattuqig Colonial Government, notorious for nearly destroying the early settlements by invading farmland and ruining crops.
'''Her’qla’vrii (Hanging Pendula)'''
 
Hanging Pendula are large, thin trees that grow along the coasts and produce low-hanging fruit. While pleasant-tasting, it contains a paralyzing neurotoxic poison, killing smaller animals and starving larger animals to death, fertilizing the surrounding soil. While not commonly cultivated, the fruit of the hanging pendula is carefully harvested and used by the Ubulreak Corps as a poison against Fog Crawlers.
 
== Seasons ==
[[File:Tattuqig_Base.png|thumb|360px|An unlabelled map of Tattuqig.]]
Tattuqig has a 9 month [[Nralakk_Federation#Calendar_System|year]], with 37 days in each month, totalling 340 days. Seasonal temperatures remain stable year-round, with the planet's Qu-Paalq averaging at 39° centigrade and a humidity of 80%, while the Lu-Paalq season averages at 30° centigrade, and a humidity of 72%. The Qu-Paalq season lasts for the first three months of the year, with the Lu-Paalq season taking up the later months, being defined by notably calmer seas. Tattuqig’s Qu-Paalq season develops violent oceanic patterns, which only compounds the dangers of travelling between islands. Most travel by sea is done during the Lu-Paalq season, with rare spells of calm weather during the warmer months.
 
The fog of Tattuqig is also seasonal, with safe routes changing as the fog fluctuates throughout the year, with regions becoming inaccessible for months at a time. Expeditions to remote archaeological sites depend on predicted changes in the fog, along with most trade routes depending on route availability.
 
== Cities and Landmarks ==
[[File:Tattuqig_Cities.png|thumb|360px|A labelled map of Tattuqig and its cities.]]
===Aujaq’wesi===
Nestled inside a mountain range, '''Aujaq'wesi''' is the capital of Tattuqig, chosen for its central location and lack of permanent fog. The city was unknowingly built on top of a large mine belonging to the original inhabitants of the planet, which was renovated and expanded for the colony's own mining operation.
 
Aside from mining, the city is primarily the political heart of Tattuqig, functioning as the administrative center. Aujaq'wesi's administration is made much more difficult with the fog, and lack of advanced technology that allows for safe long-distance travel and communications. This has resulted in most inhabitants being more isolated, considerably more than elsewhere in the Federation. Its central location and access to Qaroq'xlip alleviates this somewhat, but developments are still slow to be heard by the capital, stuck in a constant state of handling administrative and bureaucratic issues that would otherwise be considered minor issues elsewhere.
 
Aujaq'wesi is quite small, and lacks any readily stable food source, being almost completely reliant on Qaroq'xlip for its food. The city, in turn, is one of the few sources of domestic minerals, ensuring that it is kept well supplied. The Nralakk Federation's policies with regards to the Traverse result in many planets being forced to rely on their own industry to supplement what the Federation provides them, leaving this mutual trade intact.
 
===Qaroq’xlip===
Qaroq'xlip is found at the northern strait between its island and Aujaq'wesi's, and shares the responsibilities with its neighboring city in keeping the colony connected. As the city is the halfway point between east and west, its port is vital for long-distance travel and relaying information between the islands. While the city's port is primarily for trade and travel, it is also an important source of food for the region, with Qaroq'xlip fishing vessels being renowned for their ability to navigate the treacherous waters of Tattuqig and comfortably feed both islands.
 
Qaroq'xlip is also responsible for maintaining the water routes between islands. With the Lu-Paalq months calmer weather allowing for water buoys to be set up at key points as signposts, allowing vessels to safely traverse the oceans. These buoys are moved as the fog changes, eventually removed entirely once the violent storms of the Qu-Paalq begin again.
 
On the outskirts of Qaroq'xlip, the multiple ancient ruins have been extensively explored. While lacking a tourist industry, these ruins are quite popular among scientists from Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals, and elsewhere in the Federation as their orientation before setting out for active archaeological sites. Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals' biggest presence in Qaroq'xlip is within these ruins, which they maintain in order to properly orientate their staff who come to work on the planet.
 
===Sura’zlip===
Sura'zlip is a small village on one of the southern islands making up the Mo'qa'Noa Region, most known for the extensive system of ruins that surrounds it. Pre-first contact with humanity, the village’s isolation left it in neglect, kept alive through the rare scientific expeditions on the island for their research. Following Zeng-Hu's investments on Tattuqig, Sura'zlip rapidly became a bustling centre for research into its local ancient ruins, growing from a few houses and a small communal lodge to a well-developed colony in under a few years, furnished with the corporation’s money.
 
Sura'zlip’s eager acceptance of Zeng-Hu’s investments grew into hosting the corporation outright, and hosts a majority of their employees. Now a major hub for corporate interests, further development towards keeping their investments has turned it into one of the most developed settlements on the planet.
 
Despite the welcomed renewal of the village, Zeng-Hu’s employees slowly outnumbered the original villagers, with most work in the region supplanted by workers and limited to those willing to work under the corporation’s contracts. Now alienated or forced to move elsewhere, most of Sura’zlip’s original residents dispersed elsewhere, with one group eventually moving on to form the Fog Wardens. 
 
===Tartok’qlip===
Tattuqig's northeastern island is predominantly an elevated, flat mesa, making it an ideal landing site for the original colonists. The mesa now hosts the sprawling city of '''Tartok'qlip''', which maintains the lifeline between Tattuqig and the rest of the Nralakk Federation. The mesa’s elevation keeps it clear of fog, with its flat terrain suitable enough for ships to land without being visually impaired, making Tartok'qlip the planet’s sole spaceport.
 
Tattuqig’s local starships are ruggedized civilian models, built to withstand the planet’s intense electromagnetic fields, sacrificing mobility and most onboard systems in exchange. These vessels ferry goods and passengers between visiting vessels and the planet itself, but remain limited due to concerns regarding their lack of onboard systems, and are incapable of cross-planetary travel.
 
Tartok'qlip is considered equal to Sura'zlip as one of the more developed areas on the planet, with those avoiding the corporate influence in the Mo'qa'Noa region settling there instead. Job opportunities are scarce, with most of the city and its surroundings solely supporting the spaceport. The city’s other major sector is its service industry for visitors, who are typically corporate or Federation representatives assigned to oversee one of the many archaeological projects underway.
 
===Ublureak’qwip===
Ubulreak'qwip is located in a valley on the westernmost island of Tattuqig, mostly inhabited by xenobiologists studying the native Fog Crawlers. Due to the density of their population within the valley and the surrounding area, both Zeng-Hu and Federation scientists work here, with most research focusing on the Fog Crawlers’ use of psionics.
 
Ublureak’qwip’s history with the Fog Crawlers began when the original colonists first confirmed their existence, attacked by their hunting prides in the months preceding their discovery. Their large population in the valley persists to the modern day, still home to the most Fog Crawler attacks on the planet, and where the '''Ubulreak Corps''' established themselves.
 
While the settlement is considered the southernmost point of safely habitable land, regular excursions into the valley and surrounding areas are still held. These excursions are performed by the Ublureak Corps to train their recruits, with some scientists organizing their own expeditions while escorted by trained corps members.
 
===Holai Bay===
Holai Bay is a large coastal region close to Ublureak'qwip. The bay has notably thin fogbanks, allowing the establishment of a port to connect the island to the rest of Tattuqig. Several small villages and outposts dot its coastline, making it one of the more populated regions on the island. Holai Bay was affected greatly by the [[Warbling_:_The_Traverse_Strikes_Back|exodus]] of skrell headed by Weibii in 2463, with many of the settlements abandoned due to most of their inhabitants fleeing the Traverse.
 
===Kanosak Point===
The Kanoask Mountains are located to the north of Ublureak'qwip, with its highest point atop a dormant volcano being Kanosak Point. Most notable is the pristinely intact ruins at its base, being so vast and intact that it is visible during the lighter fog season from Holai Bay. Despite its visibility, Kanosak Point’s ruins remain out of reach, with the surrounding fog at the base of the mountain rendering travel impossible.
 
== Holidays ==
'''Founding Day''' - Tattuqig's Founding Day celebrations are considerably humble, being one of the poorer Traverse planets. Only two cities, Tartok'qlip and Sura'zlip, are able to host proper festivities. Festivities involve local gatherings in one of the communal buildings, where colonists share food and celebrate. In Tartok'qlip, festivities are more extravagant, with decorations and art displays being common ways of celebrating. Despite its wealth, Sura'zlip's festivities are nonexistent due to the village’s original residents having left, with the local Zeng-Hu employees leaving the holiday unobserved.
 
'''Lu'Nioh-Weibii''' - Translated directly to Stardust of Weibii, this holiday marks Kal'Qi Weibii's exodus to the Republic of Biesel, along with those who left Tattuqig with them. Derived from the [[Skrell_Relationships#Lu'Nioh_-_Stardust|relationship term of the same name]], it signifies that while no ill-will is held, those who left are no longer considered welcome. Sky lanterns are constructed during the day, and are released at the festival held at night. The lanterns are lit and observed as they float into the night sky, representing the exodus and abandonment of those who stayed.
 
'''Paalq'triq''' - Directly translated to Change of the Currents, Paalq'triq is a celebration of the end of the Qu-Paalq season, and the transition to the Lu-Paalq season, when the sea weather becomes much calmer. The holiday is held mostly by coastal settlements, with Qaroq'xlip being the most notable. Festivities involve large gatherings along the coastline, with the larger settlements taking boats out into the water to celebrate. This holiday is also the start of Qaroq'xlip's work setting up buoys, allowing safe travel between the islands.
 
== Demographics ==
 
Tattuqig has a relatively small population in comparison to other colonies in the region from its recent establishment, as well as the difficulties of colonizing the planet itself. The habitable parts of Tattuqig are small, isolated pockets that have minimal to no fog year round, where it is considered safest. The majority of skrell that were part of the initial colonization effort were primarily Xiialt, followed by smaller Axiori and Xiiori groups.
 
Non-skrell on Tattuqig consist primarily of dionae colonists, with human and vaurcae employees of  Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals forming the rest. The non-skrell population is notably higher and more diverse on Tattuqig as a result of Zeng-Hu’s investments.
 
=== Percentages ===
==== Skrell Demographics ====
 
Skrell make up roughly 81.7% of the total population. The percentages below are of the '''skrell''' population only.
 
*'''Xiialt''': 60.8%
*'''Axiori''': 30.9%
*'''Xiiori''': 8.3%
==== Non-Skrell Demographics ====
 
Non-skrell make up roughly 18.3% of the total population. The percentages below are of the '''non-skrell''' population only.
 
*'''Dionae''': 60.8%
*'''Humans''': 22.1%
*'''Vaurcae''': 17.1%
== Culture and Life on Tattuqig ==
 
The permanent fog on Tattuqig’s surface, combined with the turbulent sea weather and strong electromagnetic activity, has made life vastly different from other colonies elsewhere in the Nralakk Federation. Travel options remain limited due to technological limitations and dense fog, with most settlements isolated from one another. Settlements rely on a network of safe routes, known as the Roaming Routes, that allow passage through the fog. These routes require constant maintenance and patrols by local militias and the Ublureak Corps, as these routes can stretch for kilometers between populated areas in dense wilderness. This isolation is most felt by the planetary administration, as they struggle with relying on couriers and a lack of administrative technology to aid them.
 
The electromagnetic activity of the planet renders most modern technology useless, forcing the colonists to rely on older technology, or pay to have modern equipment ruggedized. Natural gas reserves are exploited for lighting, and simpler vehicles are used where the terrain allows it, with most ships using sails or combustion engines. While not entirely without modern equipment, what exists is expensive to have hardened to Tattuqig’s fields, being relegated to areas critical for the colony. The most notable example of this is the retrofitted vessels in Tartok'qlip's spaceport, rendered slower and lacking equipment deemed critical for interplanetary travel, which are used to ferry goods and people between vessels in orbit and the planet itself. Modified psionic devices are placed at larger cities’ borders and along the Roaming Routes to deter Fog Crawlers, being based off of the same technology in the Nlom Relays.
 
Most settlements on Tattuqig are simplistic and made from local materials, primarily stone and brick, and reach up to four stories in height to offset the restrictions from the fog. The verticality allows them to host a larger population than considered feasible, housing double or triple the inhabitants expected to live under constraints. Most settlements are self-sufficient, bartering between each other for goods. Tartok'qlip and Sura'zlip are both able to reach standards similar to that of other cities in the Traverse, being the sole exceptions.
 
Tattuqigan skrell are regularly stereotyped as uneducated and backwater due to their simplistic lives and barebones living standards by others, though this holds little weight with Tattuqig’s scientific importance and Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals’ presence. The ruins in particular have guaranteed the colonies’ continued existence with Zeng-Hu’s interest, who have funded and maintained the archaeological sites as part of an arrangement with the Nralakk Federation. Job opportunities for non-scientists wishing to take part consist of artifact hunters, explorers, construction workers, and escorts through the scientific community of Tattuqig. Illegal exploitation of the ruins from independent treasure hunters and black market operations are also lucrative opportunities, though they must contend with Zeng-Hu’s well-equipped corporate security despite being beyond the government’s reach.
 
Tattuqig's status as an underdeveloped colony stems from the Nralakk Federation's hands-off approach to the colonies of the Traverse, being left to their own devices in spite of holding scientific value. While originally seen as a boon, the presence of Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals has done little to change its prospects. The corporation's one-sided policies, lack of involvement beyond Sura'zlip, and favouritism for its own scientific endeavours has fostered resentment towards its presence. Despite this, many see its involvement as an opportunity for themselves, taking on contracts with Zeng-Hu and transferring off-world in the hopes of a better life.
 
Despite being kept distant from the Nralakk Federation, Tattuqig remains loyal to it in the aftermath of [[Warbling_:_The_Traverse_Strikes_Back|Weibii's exodus]], where most settlements were abandoned from their residents fleeing. The impact of the exodus, along with most anti-Federation skrell having fled, pushed the remaining colonists further into supporting the Federation. Tattuqig sees those who fled as traitors, and by extension considers themselves Lu'Nioh to the [[Federation_Crime_and_Resistance#The_Resistance|Lyukal]].
 
==Roaming Routes==
The '''Roaming Routes''' are a network of safe routes for traveling through the fog. These paths change throughout the year, with new paths routing through where the fog shifts and thins. Lampposts burning the gas of the '''Screaming Bulbs''' illuminate these routes, bright enough to cut through the fog for travellers using them. Psionic beacons are used extensively to deter Fog Crawlers from entering the paths, with local militias making regular patrols. Most routes remain treacherous as they enter the dense wilderness between settlements, with these sections still prone to Fog Crawler incursion where beacons fail, visibility reduces where lampposts aren't refuelled, and patrols grow scarce. These areas rely on the '''Ublureak Corps''', instead.
 
Travel through these routes are done on foot or by vehicle, though vehicles remain a scarce commodity. Most routes will stretch for kilometers before arriving at another settlement, which has influenced the creation of temporary shelters along these routes. These shelters are basic structures for travelers to use to grant refuge, and vary wildly in size and quality. Despite this, they remain a welcome sight for travelers.
 
Outside of the Roaming Routes, unofficial paths cut through the fog where the other routes shift around them, cutting travel times significantly while being much more dangerous and having unpredictable terrain. Unofficial paths are kept secret, being used by [[Federation_Crime_and_Resistance|criminals]] and smugglers. A guide is required for those using these paths, referred to as Fogcutters, who are paid well in return for faster, unseen travel.
==Fog Wardens==
 
'''Fog Wardens''' are a collective term for those dedicating themselves to protecting Tattuqig from perceived, exploitative "outsiders". Originally founded in light of Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals' impact on Sura'zlip, the movement has grown to encompass anti-Federation elements.
 
Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals formed business arrangements with the Nralakk Federation soon after first contact, allowing it to study the wildlife on Tattuqig and conduct its own archaeological research. In exchange, Zeng-Hu was to self-fund all research conducted on the planet, corporate or otherwise. Sura'zlip and its surrounding ruins were selected to be the base of operations on Tattuqig, turning it from a small village to a center for scientific research. It soon became apparent that this was more for the benefit of Zeng-Hu than the original inhabitants, with buildings and infrastructure focusing on what their operations required rather than to the village as a whole. Most work opportunities were only available to those that took Zeng-Hu contracts, leaving the locals pushed out of their own homes. The arrangement left the villagers disgruntled, eventually leaving.
 
Those that left shared their experiences, with many agreeing that Sura'zlip’s state was an outrage, only feeling more strongly on the matter when Federation officials responded with indifference. Despite the villagers' feelings, the Federation saw no issue with what they saw as subsidised development of one of their colonies, and saw the complaints as just another form of anti-Federation sentiment.
 
The lack of support led these Tattuqigans to take matters into their own hands, founding the '''Fog Wardens'''. While each group varies on their aims and methods, they all act against foreign involvement and the exploitation of Tattuqig. More peaceful Wardens will use peaceful demonstrations, petition cities to invest more resources towards overseeing Zeng-Hu and Federation research teams, and recruit members into their movement. Militant groups are ostracised by the rest of the Fog Wardens for their methods, which include attacking researchers and destroying dig sites.
==Ublureak Corps==
 
The Ublureak Corps are an official organisation established to protect the settlements from Fog Crawlers and other predators through patrolling and maintaining the '''Roaming Routes''', and escort scientists on their expeditions into the swamps of Tattuqig. The corps takes its name from Ublureak'qwip, a city plagued by Fog Crawler attacks even today due to their high population in the area. The city was chosen as the Ublureak Corps' headquarters, and is where they train recruits and plan its operations. The Ublureak Corps' corpsmen will typically work in teams of three, usually found in the large sections of the Roaming Routes kilometers away from civilization to keep them maintained.
 
The scientific community of Tattuqig regularly cooperates with the Ublureak Corps, hiring them as escorts to travel to remote dig sites, with the scientists at Ublureak'qwip enjoying ready access to corpsmen for escorts, which are used as training exercises for recruits. The corps also performs its own training excursions into the valley close to Ublureak'qwip, with the aim of monitoring Fog Crawler activity and culling the population if needed.
 
The Ublureak Corps emphasises survival skills to its members, teaching recruits how to use the local surroundings, wildlife, and the fog to their advantage. Most members of the corps will know how to extract the paralytic agent from the fruit of the Hanging Pendula, and use it to great effect on Fog Crawlers. Recruiting standards remain strict due to the dangerous nature of their mission, with many skrell looking to join being rejected. This is not seen as a failure, however, as those who aren't accepted are still taught some of the skills required to survive in the wilds of Tattuqig. The act of signing up with the Ublureak Corps is seen as a rite of passage in the colonies, with being accepted into its ranks being seen as a great achievement.
 
[[Category:Skrell]]
[[Category:Planets and Systems]]

Latest revision as of 21:38, 17 October 2025

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    Nralakk Federation Enforcement

    The Nralakk Federation’s Enforcers, or Kala, are responsible for upholding the security and law of skrell space. Functioning under a centralised structure, the Kala are governed by a supervisory body known as the Nralakk Federation Security Commission (NFSC). The NFSC’s doctrines revolve around mobility, flexibility and precision. Presently, the Kala maintains two core objectives: firstly, ensuring the safety, security and cooperation of all systems under the Federation’s flag, and protecting their borders; secondly, protecting the national security of the Federation from foreign nations and groups, as well as proactively gathering intelligence on both their allies and their adversaries.

    History

    The origins of the centralised skrell security community begins at the conclusion of the War of Tides, and subsequent formation of the Commonwealth of Three in 901 CE. The Tzqul Republic, Heshqu Council and Weishqi Republic, who had previously all handled their own internal affairs, created the Commonwealth Internal Security Committee (CISC) as an international policing and intelligence agency. The national rivalries within the CISC laid the foundation for significant inefficiencies and failures in its short history, leading to uncontainable conflicts in the newly established outer colonies. With the formation of the First Nralakk Federation in 878 CE, the Grand Councillor engaged in widespread purges of the CISC, and reformed the organisation into a force of separate Kala, loyal to the Grand Council.

    The reign of Glorsh-Omega led to the gradual disbandment of the existing Kala in favour of automated security drones under the AI’s direct control, with skrell collaborators not placed in enforcement positions due to their inefficiencies in engaging with Glorsh’s esoteric risk assessment programmes. Following the Tri-Qyu Calamity in 2192 CE, and the formation of the Second Nralakk Federation in 2245 CE, the new federal government recruited the Lyukal cells deemed most disciplined and loyal to Federation ideals, forming a new security and intelligence organisation to aid in the reformation of the now fractured skrell space, and train new generations of Kala to make up this organisation. Among the first duties of these proto-Kala was to reestablish societal order in the Core Systems, enforce the recent blanket ban on all forms of artificial intelligence, and rebuild the Federation’s immense surveillance network.

    The rapid recovery of the Federation meant that the existing, decentralised Kala structure became bloated and inefficient with the ever-expanding Federation frontier. Grand Councillor Rixa Teq-Wul reorganised the Kala under two new agencies, the Directories of Internal and External Security (DIES), which would operate independently of one another and report directly to the Grand Councillor. Ultimately, this led to the two agencies competing with one another for prominence and funding, sabotaging the other’s reputation through a number of covert actions throughout the early 2400s, with some prominent anti-Federation individuals claiming that Marauder groups were funded to fuel this rivalry. Additionally, the Wukala were created from the ranks of the most loyal Kala as political operatives protecting Federation ideals. The election of Grand Councillor Weashbi Jrugl in 2453 came with the formation of an oversight organisation to unify the security services, the Nralakk Federation Security Commission (NFSC), which was staffed with the Grand Councillor’s allies, though the Wukala would remain independent of the Commission and retain their autonomy due to the influence of the High Prefect.

    In recent history, the prominence of the Kala has only grown as domestic and foreign troubles led to their expanding powers and political relevance. Within the Traverse region, the problematic handling of the Kala created many critics of Grand Councillor Jrugl’s security policies amongst the rank-and-file Kala, though officials in the Directories are hesitant to report this dissidence for fear of being punished themselves. Both the phoron scarcity, and the recent foreign policy changes by the Grand Council, have also created some dissent within the Kala, who disapprove immensely of overreliance on the megacorporations. However, High Prefect Eluteluk has remained publicly supportive of their Grand Councillor, dissuading any serious protest within the Federation’s security apparatus.

    Nralakk Federation Security Commission

    The Nralakk Federation Security Commission serves as the umbrella organisation containing the myriad of different security and intelligence agencies. The Commission, and by extension the entirety of the Nralakk Federation’s vast security apparatus, is chaired by the Grand Councillor, although they will appoint a Commissioner to oversee the daily operations of the organisation in their place. To be the Commissioner of the NFSC is one of the highest honours a skrell can achieve, acting as the trusted hand of their Grand Councillor. Commissioners almost always veterans across a broad range of security and intelligence fields and afforded Idol status, they are also given a position on the Grand Council as the Grand Advisor of Security and Intelligence.

    The Commission is composed of the Grand Councillor, the Commissioner, the Directors of Internal and External Security, select Grand Council Enforcers, and other intelligence and security experts from various sectors. The current Commissioner is Tariqale'miluz Odakizu, a well-known academic and lecturer in Federation security and law, with an extensive background experience as the Executive Director of External Security during first contact with humanity.

    Council Enforcers

    The emblem of the Council Enforcers.

    Independent of the Nralakk Federation’s security community, the Wuqrnjeqkala, shortened to Wukala (and translating to Council Enforcers), are planetary council-appointed Kala who enforce disciplinary action at the discretion of the councillors they are assigned to. While being a Wukala member is a prestigious position which grants Index rating bonuses, Idol status is never awarded out of an interest in keeping the operatives relatively anonymous. Wukala operatives focus on domestic crime and suppression of anti-Federation actions, and are granted access to the Federation's internal surveillance systems to oversee their assigned region. The Qekala work closely with Wukala intelligence to enforce the law, with direct responses from the Wukala only appearing in the event that immediate detainment or capture is necessary, particularly when their persons-of-interest attempt to flee the planet, or evade sentencing and/or reeducation. Unlike those of the inner systems, the Wukala of the Traverse’s planetary councils are appointed by the Qu’Wukala instead of their respective planetary councillor, and are given a wider licence than their inner system counterparts to ensure the loyalty of their ward. This allows the Traverser Wukala full control of the security apparatus in their planetary council, which is most often exercised in the form of combatting infiltration by anti-Federation elements, and ensuring corruption is kept to a minimum. Due to their important role, and the danger a subversive Wukala could possess, Traverser Wukala are always loyalty implanted.

    Grand Council Enforcers

    The Qu'Wuqrnjeqkala, shortened to Qu’Wukala (and translating to Grand Council Enforcers), are the personal agents of the Grand Councilor and the Grand Council's highest members. Qu'Wukala operatives are tasked with providing the security details for their assigned wards, council members, protection of the Nralakk Federation's secure assets, and the completion of any requested tasks from the Grand Council itself. Unlike their sibling Kala, operatives of the Qu'Wukala are allowed their Idol statuses, and are touted alongside their wards as being among the highest echelons of the Federation. Rumors of the Qu'Wukala being utilised as assassins, rather than their official role as intelligence agents and bodyguards, are dismissed as overtly ridiculous conspiracy theories. The leader of both the Qu’Wukala, and to an extent, all planetary Wukala, is High Prefect Eluteluk Dozopil-Raqirztzlip, who has held their position long before Grand Councillor Weashbi Jrugl’s ascension. Thanks to the great power held by the Qu’Wukala, the High Prefect is rumoured by many in Biesel’s resistance circles to be the puppetmaster of the young and relatively inexperienced Jrugl to control the entire nation, and uses their enforcers to ensure their position is secured.

    Directory of Internal Security

    The Nralakk Federation’s vast networks of surveillance networks and enforcers are controlled by the Directory of Internal Security (NFDIS), which is one of the largest organs of the government. Due to the substantial size of the Federation’s domestic security operations, the NFDIS is divided into planetary administrative divisions called Districts, which have a vast amount of autonomy from the NFDIS itself, instead receiving their directives from their respective planetary council. The inherent fluidity of the NFDIS means that all Kalas are essentially of equal importance with no staggering, beyond that the Districts themselves are ultimately led by their District Director. Below that, the number of divisions and their sizes is dependent on the given planet’s proximity to the Nralakk system, but the universal base unit is a Station, which contains the necessary facilities to oversee the entire security of a rural region or city. Within individual Stations, structure is fluid without a consistent hierarchy, where a Kala may be elevated to lead for a period of time, or until a task is completed, if it is considered necessary by the unit. The DIS is currently led by Executive Director Gelqai'nelusa Iqo'ujin, the former District Director of Qerrbalak, and a veteran in the internal security apparatus known for their integrity and numerous successful anti-corruption campaigns within the Kala.

    Domestic Surveillance

    The emblem of the Wake and Dream Enforcers.

    The Nlomkala are the eyes and ears of the Federation are found at every level of society, to the point of being (erroneously) remarked by non-Federation citizens that every electronic appliance is outfitted with hidden cameras feeding directly to the Nlomkala. In reality, the pervasive surveillance in the Federation is an open, accepted part of life to feed information to the Social Compatibility Index, and ensure the Federation’s economy continues to operate. This vast network is overseen by Nlomkala, or Wake Enforcers. The sheer scale of the Nlomkala’s operations makes them one of the largest employment sectors in the nation, with C’thur vaurca and dionae employed in high level positions alongside skrell. The Sromkala, or Dream Enforcers, are a specialized division of the Nlomkala with high psionic aptitude, with agents placed close to Nlom Relays in order to amplify their capabilities to monitor the Wake. A common belief is that every Nlom Relay in the Federation contains at least one Sromkala agent within a cryogenic pod to suspend their body, while still allowing their consciousness to continue working within Srom.

    Law Enforcement

    The emblem of the Wake and Dream Enforcers.

    The Qekala, or Home Enforcers, are the fist of the Federation’s security apparatus in skrell space. Only a fourth of the NFDIS is made up of Qekala operatives, who are responsible for general policework. The Qekala’s regular operations include regular patrols, providing security presence, warrant execution, emergency response, and have a significant portion of its staff dedicated towards intelligence and surveillance. Aspiring Qekala members are placed under rigorous scrutiny, testing athletic ability, legal knowledge, and general capability to respond with correct force and procedure. Qekala members are expected to operate amphibiously across multiple environments across the myriad environments in the Nralakk Federation. Non-skrell members, like the C’thur warriors of Vytel’s Brood, are employed in limited numbers for vaurca-majority regions. These Warriors are implanted with a loyalty implant, which equalises the Federation's orders to the same priority as a Queen's, with conflict of interests forcing a warrior to hibernate until resolved.

    In the Traverse region, Qekala are exclusively recruited from the planets they are stationed on, creating concerns for conflicts of interest between the Federation and their homes. Consequently, the Traverser Qekala receive much lower funding and equipment than their inner system counterparts, alongside higher scrutiny in their operations, with the NFDIS requiring intense loyalty and background checks on potential recruits. Alongside this, the day-to-day operations of the Qekala are not controlled by their planetary council, but rather the Wukala of said council, in order to ensure loyalty to the Federation is prioritised above all else.

    Directory of External Security

    While the Nralakk Federation maintains ample protection of internal security against domestic agitators, they recognise that foreign actors are now a much greater threat in the modern day, with foreign influence even affecting the Traverser rebels during the Q’elpi Systems crisis. The Directory of External Security (NFDES) is the first line of defence against this ever present concern, handling all matters which could affect the Federation from outside its borders. The NFDES is divided into three Sections, which are the Intelligence Section, Covert Actions Section, and Defence Section. Below that, the NFDES operates the same non-hierarchical structure used by their internal security counterparts, although the Defence Section is an exception. The NFDES is currently led by Executive Director Ripalji Guyuo, a former operative of the Covert Actions Section, and close associate of Weashbi Jrugl, ascending to replace their predecessor immediately after Jrugl’s appointment.

    Foreign Operations

    The emblem of the Covert Enforcers.

    The prestigious Intelligence and Covert Actions Sections serve as the Federation’s first line of defence against foreign threats, maintaining offices for every nation in the Spur. These two Sections conduct their activities under the umbrella category of Foreign Operations, and work in tandem to perform the widest berth of duties of any security organisation. These duties include intelligence gathering, counter-intelligence, and monitoring skrell outside of the Federation (both citizen and not), all handled by the Ruupkala, or Intelligence Enforcers. Charged with maintaining networks of undercover operatives in foreign national organisations, and assassinations—though no assassination attempt has ever been confirmed to have been approved by the Nralakk Federation—are the Tupkala, or Covert Enforcers. This position at the forefront of skrell security has made the Foreign Operations component of the NFDES a highly desirable position for well-performing citizens, and is a valuable pathway towards a successful political career. The Ruupkala are rumored to monitor the fabled “Drylist,” which supposedly holds the names of all skrell living abroad who have performed deductive behaviors against the Nralakk Federation, displayed worrying ideals, joined an opposing faction, or renounced their citizenship. Some theorize that this list even covers non-skrell who may pose a threat to the Federation. The Drylist, however, remains an openly debunked conspiracy theory by the Nralakk Federation, and no official list has ever been discovered or produced.

    Defence

    The emblem of the Star Enforcers.

    The Defence Section is regarded by most within the skrell security community as an unfortunate necessity to combat piracy in the less civilised Traverse, other border regions, and frontiers. The Qukala, or Star Enforcers, make up the Defence Section and are organised unlike their sibling Kala, where their various ship departments maintain senior Lead Enforcers who form a council structure to command their given vessel without a designated captain. Unlike other navies who operate a permanent fleet structure, each Qukala vessel is subordinate to the Defence Section itself, which may organise patrol groups and temporary task forces as needed. The Qukala have a very poor standing in the Traverse, where they are most widespread and responsible for enforcing an extensive anti-piracy mandate—being viewed by many Traversers as unnecessary military policing. This reputation has not left the Defence Section unscathed, and is reflected in its relatively small size, equipment, and funding compared to other branches of Federal security, and a miniscule force when compared to their Solarian neighbours. The lack of interest in the Defence Section has since been capitalised on by the C’thur Hive, particularly Queen Vytel, as vaurca warriors are perfectly suited to EVA operations, as well as acting as an intimidating force against pirates. These C’thuric Warriors have a Federation-designed loyalty implant much like their Qekala siblings. Although the injection of C’thur warriors has been an undeniable success, the effort was not enough to prevent the Federation’s recent embarrassments in the Traverse region. Aside from their regular duties, the Qukala are responsible for providing the security for Federation embassies, consulates, and diplomats serving abroad.

    Following the reforms agreed upon by the now-defunct Independent Traverser Movement and the Federation, the NFSC was tasked with training a local defence force comprised of loyal volunteers in the Traverse with the aim of providing some relief to overextended Qukala forces in anti-piracy operations. To accomplish the creation of this auxiliary force, Qukala stationed in the Traverse began recruiting, organising, and training forces of loyal Traversers which would be called the Qehalak, or Homeguard. An individual Qehalak is typically a part-time reservist for the Federation’s frontier, who is expected to pick up arms and assist any Kala when called upon, however in Traverse Councils with a small Kala presence, Qehalak can be organised into full-time border security, under the guidance of a senior Qukala attaché.

    The Nralakk Federation’s military ships are designed primarily around extremely long-ranged engagement, with any deployed strikecraft consisting of psionically-piloted remote drones and the vanishingly-rare boarding craft. Built for responding against piracy and irregular anti-government actions, the average fleet strength of the Federation is miniscule in comparison to the immense fleets of the Solarian Alliance and similar human nations, with most non-Federation members having only seen the Qukala’s navy on border patrol sorties and the single deployment of the short-sightedly designed NFV Qheles. While this lens is unflattering for the Federation’s perception of military strength, the sheer size of the nation’s claims still necessitates a sizable fleet to secure them, which remains no small feat when contending with domestic and foreign piracy.

    The Traverse’s Qehalak fleets, in comparison to the Qukala’s own, are considerably smaller. Consisting of retrofitted Qukala naval vessels and militarized civilian craft, the Qehalak’s fleet strength is more consistently tested by the more organized Marauder vessels that plague the skrell frontier. This independence from the Inner Systems’ more organized security structure has bred new tactics out of sheer necessity, with more eccentric and underhanded tactics being adopted to compensate.

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