CARDASSIANS: The Unofficial guide Version 2.0 by Tiffany Edenfield (tiffanye@ix.netcom.com) Star Trek is a trademark of Paramount Pictures Corporation. All other copyrights and trademarks associated with the text properties listed above are hereby acknowledged and respected. 'Cardassians: 'The Unofficial Guide', is a copyright (c) 1994 by Tiffany L. Edenfield. The information presented here is in no way intended to infringe upon the established copyrights and trademarks of Paramount Pictures Corporation. It is solely for entertainment purposes and is not intended for sale. It may be freely distributed, subject to the following conditions: (1). The copyright notices listed above and the author's name must accompany all copies of the file, whether in electronic or hard copy form. (2). The file may not be modified in any form without the expressed written consent of the author. (3). No fee, other than reasonable distribution compensation, be charged. Please send all comments to tiffanye@ix.netcom.com Table of Contents XI Author's Notes 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Acknowledgments 2.0 JUST THE FACTS 2.1 Physical Description 2.2 Cardassian Names 2.3 Technology 2.4 Government 2.5 Territorial Features 2.6 Foreign Relations 2.7 History 2.8 Medicine 2.9 Psychology 2.10 Geology 2.11 Archeology 2.12 Architecture 2.13 Society 2.14 Education 2.15 Animals 2.16 Clothing 2.17 Food 3.0 MILITARY 3.1 Structure 4.0 THOUGHTS AND THEORIES 4.1 Society 4.2 War 5.0 CREDITS 5.1 Author's Tidbits 5.2 Books 5.3 Magazines 5.4 Videos 5.5 Star Trek: The Next Generation episodes 5.6 Star Trek: Deep Space Nine episodes 7.0 GRATEFUL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 7.1 Honorable Mentions ================================================================= Author's Note Hello and thank you for selecting this guide.:) This is version 2.0 of Cardassians: The Unofficial Guide. Version 1.0 can be downloaded from America Online's record's banks. Now, you may be asking yourself why a Cardassian guide? Over a year ago, the question might well have been asked in all seriousness, but today the need for more information about the Cardassians, its history and its people, must be obvious to all. Since the character was first introduced to Star Trek fans on January 28, 1991, there has been an increasing need, and an avid interest among the fans, to discover more about the enigmatic race. There is every indication that the interest will grow and Berman and Piller will develop their culture, and allow writers to explicate every aspect of the Cardassians, this is the case for the foreseeable future. However, until Berman and Piller realize the potential of the Cardassians, and our beloved characters, Gul Dukat and Elim Garak, fans will theorize and compose suppositions based on their ideas of what the Cardassians are like, hence, the creation of this guide. This guide contains a generous mixture of canon and noncanon information and ideas. It is designed for anyone who wishes to know more about the Cardassians and the Cardassian way. If you have any questions regarding this guide, please address E-mail to: tiffanye@ix.netcom.com. I look forward to reading your comments, suggestions, and ideas. It is my hope that this guide will be available in hard copy in the future. I hope you enjoy reading it as much I have enjoyed creating it. Thank you.:) Tiffany L. Edenfield ================================================================= 1.0 INTRODUCTION This is NOT an official Cardassian information guide. This is a composition of fact and supposition that pertain to the Cardassian race. Information was compiled from various sources listed in the bibliography, and my supposition is based on the information that I gathered. The purpose of this document is to provide information about the Cardassians; people; government; Empire; and the Obsidian Order. The information is out there, but not in text form. Even the Star Trek: Encyclopedia doesn't have an abundance of information on Cardassians. So it's in the interests of Star Trek fans that I've created this guide. Care has been taken to make the guide as current as possible. Although I have tried to make allowances for lack of information for all continuing episodes that have changed and added to the Cardassians, the information available to me have not often reflected these changes in a concise manner; it has therefore been impossible to avoid appending my supposition. This guide is in six parts where part five through eight lists contributors to this guide, as well lists of Star Trek books, with the following credits: designers of Cardassian makeup, warship, and the race. You are currently reading part one, the introduction. 1.1 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Several people have contributed to this project. Honorable mentions, my immense gratitude and thanks go to Lana Pennington, editor and artist of this guide, for work on many illustrations in this guide. Also, Robert Oliver, who was an invaluable resource on Star Trek information in general. A special word of thanks to the Dukat's Women Social Club, my fellow droolers, who have encouraged me over the months in all of my projects and chats about Cardassians, and a certain Gul.;) Love all of you guys! I also want to say a huge thanks and give hugs to my friends, who are a very important part of my life, and who have made this guide possible, and concise. You know who you are.:) My apologies if I missed anyone. 2.0 JUST THE FACTS 2.0 Physical Description A. Biological Construction - The Cardassians are classified as humanoids. B. Complexion - Range from light-brown to beige, some have a grayish pallor. C. Characteristics - FOREHEAD: Two thick vertical ridges recede back to the crown of the head with an inverted drop-shaped ridge that rest in the center of the forehead. - EYES: A ridge nearly encircles the eyes. It's thickest point is directly above the eye. The eyes appear to set deep in the face because of the thickness of the eye ridge. - NOSE: Generally unsmooth with a center-line that travel down the bridge of the nose and end underneath the tip. The nostrils have two slits, not rounded like humans. - NECK: Twin, spiral-type cords, thick and segmented, run up the outside edges of their necks. The cords that stretch down from the upper part of the neck, just behind the ears, to the shoulder on an outward angle. - HAIR: Their hair is straight and generally combed back toward the nape of the neck. The color range from dark-brown to jet-black. NOTE: Gul Macet was the only Cardassian ever seen with facial hair. He was wearing a moustache. This has been confirmed by Michael Westmore's Makeup FX Journal. SOURCE: [TNG] "The Wounded" SEE: Michael Westmore, section 5.0. 2.2 Cardassian Names from ST:TNG NOTE: I didn't include every episode that featured a Cardassian due to the recurrence of a characters in other episodes. In addition, "AR" refers to audio reference, meaning something was mentioned but not actually seen. A. THE WOUNDED (Stardate 44429.6)[TNG] - Macet PHONETICS: mah-SET RANK/POSITION: Gul, Commanding Officer WARSHIP: Trager (TRAY-garr) RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Marc Alaimo) - Telle PHONETICS: tel-LEH RANK/POSITION: Glinn WARSHIP: Trager (TRAY-garr) RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Marco Rodriguez) - Daro PHONETICS: DAH-roe RANK/POSITION: Glinn WARSHIP: Trager (TRAY-garr) RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Time Winters) B. ENSIGN RO (Stardate 45076.3)[TNG] - Dolak PHONETICS: doh-LAK RANK/POSITION: Gul, Cardassian Militia 4-1 WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Frank Collinson) C. THE CHAIN of COMMAND, Part 1 and 2 (Stardate 46357.4)[TNG] - Lemec PHONETICS: lah-MEK RANK/POSITION: Gul WARSHIP: Cardassian Galor-class (Reklar) RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (John Durbin) - Corak PHONETICS: KHOR-eck RANK/POSITION: Glinn; aide to Gul Lemec WARSHIP: Serve aboard the Reklar RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Tom Morga) - Tajor PHONETICS: TAY-jore RANK/POSITION: Glinn; aide to Gul Lemec. WARSHIP: Serve aboard the Reklar RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (N/A) - Madred PHONETICS: mah-DRED RANK/POSITION: Gul; interrogator WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (David Warner) OFFSPRING: Jil Orra, daughter. - Orra, Jil PHONETICS: ORE-ah, Jil RANK/POSITION: N/A WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian Female (Helen Lauren Olson) FATHER: Gul Madred D. THE CHASE (Stardate 46731.5)[TNG] - Ocett PHONETICS: OHH-set RANK/POSITION: Gul WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian female (Linda Thorson) E. PARALLELS (Stardate 47410.2)[TNG] - Nador PHONETICS: nah-DOOR RANK/POSITION: Gul WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Mark Bramhall) F. LOWER DECKS (Stardate 47566.7)[TNG] - Dal, Joret PHONETICS: DAHL, JOR-et RANK/POSITION: Cardassian military WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Don Reilly) G. JOURNEY'S END (Stardate 47751.2)[TNG] - Evec (EE-vek), Gul; Cardassian military officer. PHONETICS: EE-vek POSITION: Gul, Commander of the 4th Order WARSHIP: Cardassian Galor-class, type III (Vetar) RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Richard Poe) OFFSPRING: 3 sons (2 deceased) Cardassian names from ST:DSN A. EMISSARY, Part 1 and 2(Stardate 46379.1)[DSN] - Dukat PHONETICS: due-KAHT RANK/POSITION: Gul; Commander of the Second Order. WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Marc Alaimo) NOTE: Dukat was also the Prefect of Bajor. Also, administrator of the orbital mining station, Terok Nor during the occupation of Bajor. - Jasad PHONETICS: jah-SAHD RANK/POSITION: Gul; military commander WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Joel Snetow) B. PAST PROLOGUE (Stardate none)[DSN] - Garak, Elim PHONETICS: GAIR-rik, EE-lim RANK/POSITION: Clothier/tailor on Deep Space Nine WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Andrew Robinson) NOTE: Garak was also an Obsidian Order operative. He was Enabran Tain's, the former head of the Obsidian Order, personal advisor. - Danar PHONETICS: dah-NAR RANK/POSITION: Gul; military commander WARSHIP: Aldara (ALL-darra) RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Vaughn Armstrong) C. DUET (Stardate none)[DSN] - Darhe'el PHONETICS: dar-HEE-EL RANK/POSITION: Gul, Gallitepp Labor Camp RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Harris Yulin) AWARDS/DECORATIONS: Proficient Service Medal - Marritza, Aamin PHONETICS: MAR-rizzah, AAH-men RANK/POSITION: Cardassian military; file clerk WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Harris Yulin) D. CARDASSIANS (Stardate none)[DSN] - Pa'Dar, Kotan PHONETICS: pah-DAR, KOH-tan RANK/POSITION: Civilian leader; Cardassian government WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Robert Manden) OFFSPRING: Pa'dar, Rugal - Pa'Dar, Rugal PHONETICS: pah-DAR, ROO-gul RANK/POSITION: N/A WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (N/A) FATHER: Pa'dar, Kotan E. NECESSARY EVIL (Stardate 47282.5)[DSN] - Hadar [AR] PHONETICS: HAH-darr RANK/POSITION: Gul; Cardassian High Command WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (N/A) F. PROFIT and LOSS (Stardate none)[DSN] - Lang, Natima PHONETICS: LAYNG, NAH-teema RANK/POSITION: Professor; Cardassia Prime WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian female (Mary Crosby) - Rekelen PHONETICS: Rah-KELL-en RANK/POSITION: Student; aide to Natima Lang WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian female (Heidi Swedberg) - Hogue PHONETICS: HOH-gah RANK/POSITION: Student; aide to Natima Lang WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Michael Reilly Burke) G. THE MAQUIS, PART TWO (Stardate none)[DSN] - Parn PHONETICS: PARN RANK/POSITION: Legate; Cardassian Central Command WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (John Schuck) H. THE WIRE (Stardate none)[DSN] - Boheeka PHONETICS: BOH-hee-kah RANK/POSITION: Glinn; Cardassian military officer WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Jimmie F. Skaggs) - Tain, Enabran PHONETICS: TAYNE, EE-naab-bren RANK/POSITION: Former head of the Obsidian Order WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Paul Dooley) I. TRIBUNAL (Stardate none)[DSN] - Boone PHONETICS: BOO-ne RANK/POSITION: Cardassian operative WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (John Beck) - Makbar PHONETICS: MAHK-barr RANK/POSITION: Chief Archon; Cardassian judicial court WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian female (Caroline Lagerfelt) - Kovat PHONETICS: KOH-vat RANK/POSITION: Public Conservator; Ministry of Justice WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Fritz Weaver) J. SECOND SKIN (Stardate none)[DSN] - Ghemor, Tekeny PHONETICS: geh-MOOR, TEK-kany RANK/POSITION: Legate; Cardassian Central Command WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Lawrence Pressman) OFFSPRING: Gehmor, Illiana - Gehmor, Illiana PHONETICS: geh-MOOR RANK/POSITION: Obsidian Order Field Operative WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian female (Nana Visitor) FATHER: Ghemor, Tekeny - Entek PHONETICS: ENN-tek RANK/POSITION: Field Commander; Obsidian Order WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Gregory Sierra) - Benil PHONETICS: BAH-neel RANK/POSITION: Gul; military commander, 8th Order WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Christopher Carroll) - Yeln PHONETICS: YELL-nn RANK/POSITION: Obsidian Order; aide to Entek WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Tony Papenfuss) - Ari PHONETICS: AIR-ree RANK/POSITION: Cardassian officer WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Billy Burke) K. CIVIL DEFENSE (Stardate ?)[DSN] - Kell PHONETICS: KELL RANK/POSITION: Legate; Cardassian Central Command WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Danny Goldring) L. DEFIANT (Stardate 48467.3)[DSN] - Korinas PHONETICS: COOR-uhn-iss RANK/POSITION: Obsidian Order agent WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian female (Tricia O'Neil) - Raynor [AR] PHONETICS: RAY-norr RANK/POSITION: Gul WARSHIP: Kraxon (kraxx-ZON) Race/SEX: Cardassian male (N/A) - Torin PHONETICS: TORR-enn RANK/POSITION: Gul; 6th Order; Commander of Outpost 61 WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (N/A) - Dukat, Mikor [AR] PHONETICS: MEE-coor RANK/POSITION: N/A WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (N/A) BIRTH/PLACE: N/A AGE: 11 FATHER: Gul Dukat - Cardassian officer at Tactical PHONETICS: N/A RANK/POSITION: Cardassian officer; Tactical WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Robert Kerbeck)) M. LIFE SUPPORT (Stardate 44498)[DSN] - Turrel PHONETICS: TORR-ell WARSHIP: N/A RANK/POSITION: Legate; Cardassian Central Command RACE/SEX: Cardassian male (Andrew Pine) N. DESTINY (Stardate N/A)[DSN] - Belor, Ulani, PHONETICS: BAH-lorr, OOO-Lannee RANK/POSITION: Doctor; Scientist; Ministry of Science WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian female (Wendy Robie) - Rejal, Gilora PHONETICS: RAY-zahl, GIL-lorra RANK/POSITION: Doctor; Scientist; Ministry of Science WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian female (Tracy Scoggins) - Dejar PHONETICS: DEE-zarr RANK/POSITION: Obsidian Order agent WARSHIP: N/A RACE/SEX: Cardassian female (Jessica Hendra) SEE: Synopses on the above shows, section 6.0 (hard copy only) 2.3 Technology A. STARSHIP: Class - Galor, type III PHONETICS: Gah-lore SOURCE: TNG and DSN - Hedecki (DSN: "Tribunal") PHONETICS: HEH-deckie SOURCE: DSN: "Tribunal" - Survey vessels [AR] PHONETICS: N/A SOURCE: TNG "The Wounded" - Pursuit vessels PHONETICS: N/A SOURCE: DSN "The Maquis, Part One" - Keldan PHONETICS: KEHL-dan SOURCE: DSN "The Defiant" NOTE: The Obsidian Order's Keldan-class warships are faster than the standard Keldans issued to the Cardassian military. Also, Cardassian pursuit vessels were modified and reconfigured to carry Galor-class phaser banks. SOURCE: TNG "Maquis, Part One" and "Defiant" B. STARSHIP: Names - Aldara PHONETICS: ALL-darra RANK/COMMANDER: Gul Danar CLASS: N/A - Reklar PHONETICS: Rek-LAHR RANK/COMMANDER: Gul Lemeck CLASS: N/A - Trager PHONETICS: TRAY-ger RANK/COMMANDER: Gul Macet CLASS: Galor - Kraxon PHONETICS: KRAX-on RANK/COMMANDER: Gul Raynor CLASS: N/A - Bok'Nor PHONETICS: BACH-nore RANK/COMMANDER: N/A CLASS: Cardassian freighter ship C. STARSHIP: Description and Design - COLOR: Rust/orange - DESIGN: An Egyptian ankh, with a scorpion quality NOTE: Designer Rick Sternbach originally patterned the warship on an Egyptian ankh. Star Trek modelmakers Ed Miarecki and Tom Hudson, gave it a scorpionlike quality. SOURCE: DSN book "The Making of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" SEE: Rick Sternbach, section 5.0. D. TRANSPORTERS - MATERIALIZATION: Vertical and circular lines in rotation around the subject, with random sparkles within. - DESIGN: Some are triangular in shape, and have been configured to run with a high-powered subspace field around them to jam sensors. - COLOR: Energy reflection is amber. NOTE: Subspace fields were used presumably to deflect any ships scanners from determining whether Cardassians were carrying weapons during transport. SOURCE: TNG "The Chase" E. WEAPONS - PERSONAL PHASER: A disruptor. Look similar to a Romulan disruptor. Their energy weapons were pink in TNG "The Wounded" but made to be amber afterwards. - PHASER RIFLE: Insect motif design first adopted by Richard Sternbach from the Egyptian ankh in his Cardassian warship design. - METAGENIC WEAPON: Sophisticated biological weapon using genetically engineered viruses, designed to destroy any form of DNA. These viruses could mutate rapidly and were believed able to destroy an entire ecosystems within days. After thirty days, the metagenic itself died, having destroyed all biological life on a planetary scale, while leaving all the technological aspects of a culture intact. Because of the extreme danger of these weapons, treaties were established to ban their use and all major powers of the period, including the Federation, the Ferengi, and the Romulans agreed to the ban. In 2369, Starfleet Intelligence was the victim of Cardassian disinformation suggesting that the Cardassians were developing metagenic toxins. Starfleet also believed that the Cardassians had discovered a new method to deliver the toxins in a dormant state on a thetaband subspace carrier wave. SOURCE: DSN "Chain of Command, Part I" - NEUROSENE GAS: Deadly gas, fatal to non-Cardassians only. Gul Dukat designed the Terok Nor defense system to emit neurosene gas into the ventilation ducts in the event the station is besieged by terrorists. - COLOR OF BEAM: Amber. - TORTURE DEVICE: Surgical implant in the chest cavity, then connected to nerves throughout the subjects body. The device can inflict pain in any area of the body by depressing a button on a remote device. Pain level is severe, even in its lowest setting. - SELF-DESTRUCT MECHANISM: Gul Dukat designed the Terok Nor defense system to engage the auto self-destruct sequence in the even the station is besieged by terrorists. The timer is set to 2 1/2 hours. - TEROK NOR DEFENSIVE SYSTEM: Has four stages. NOTE: I postulate that the Cardassian militia unit (ground troops/infantry) use phaser rifles. In theory, a rifle is more powerful than a personal phaser by more than fifty percent. They have a mode select for a variation of thermal (stun mode) and disruption (organic tissue damage/kill mode) effect. Also, can be used for an explosive on higher settings. SOURCE: N/A F. POWER SOURCES - URIDIUM ORE: Some small devices use uridium ore to for a power source. - LADARIUM MINING SLUICE: Cardassians use ladaruim power their warp core. NOTE: Terok Nor, the Cardassian designation for Deep Space Nine, processed uridium ore. Uridium, in its raw form, could be a explosive with a powerful, electrical charge. SOURCE: DSN "Civil Defense" 2.4 Government A. CARDASSIAN EMPIRE: Name of their domain. - Three political factions have been mentioned in recent DSN episodes. They are Civilian leaders (political leaders), Central Command (military), and the Obsidian Order (intelligence unit). Presently, the military controls the government. However, both the Central Command and the Obsidian Order coexist as a separate entity, a separate power. Both answer to the political authority of their 'toper' council, and are allowed to run their own affairs. See: Central Command and Obsidian Order. B. THE GOVERNMENT: Under the direction of the Central Command. - As of Stardate 46360.8, the Central Command has direct control of the government. However, recent episodes has shown a continual shift in authority. The Obsidian Order appear to be steadily gaining power, with the aid of the Romulan Empire. It's feasible that a coup will result if the Central Command feels their authority is threatened. C. CENTRAL COMMAND: Military branch of the Cardassian Empire. - Not much is known about the Cardassian military, so this subject is open to supposition. We know military commanders, Legates, appear to administrate military affairs. But that's about all we know, which isn't enough for any Cardassian fan who is starved for information. Namely me! D. OBSIDIAN ORDER: Intelligence unit of the Cardassian Empire. - Even less is known about the Obsidian Order, which made an introduction in DSN "The Wire." They are known for their diligence and ruthlessness. They are the ever vigilant eyes and ears of the Cardassian Empire. It is said that a Cardassian citizen cannot sit down to a meal without each dish being duly noted and recorded. In addition, they are more efficient than the Romulan Tal Shiar. The Tal Shiar can't compete when it comes to intelligence gathering and covert operations. SOURCE: DSN "The Wire and Improbable Cause" NOTE: Although the Obsidian Order answers to their own authority, they must be granted autonomy by the Central Command to investigate anyone under their jurisprudence. I'm not certain if the Central Command must seek the autonomy when investigating members of the Obsidian Order, but I believe so. In the DSN episode, "Second Skin," Tekeny Ghemor informed Kira that he couldn't stop Entek if he took her to the Obsidian Order facilities. Therefore, it appears that their authority is, indeed, separate. SOURCE: DSN "Second Skin" E. JUDICIAL SYSTEM: The Cardassian court system. - The system is barbaric by human standards. They boast that their court is the most efficient criminal investigation system in the quadrant. F. PRETRIAL MOTIONS: Guilty until proven innocent, granted if you were absolved of your crimes before the execution. - The verdict is always known before the trial and it is always the same: guilty. - Cardassian citizens enjoy watching justice triumph or evil every time. They find it comforting. The Cardassian Empire believes it's good for the populace to see the spectacle of justice. Trials demonstrate the futility of behavior contrary to good order; justice will be done, and lives will be reaffirmed, safe and secure. G. CRIMES: All crimes are solved, all criminals are punished. To Cardassians a conviction of a criminal is a salutary experience. H. STRUCTURE - Chief Archon PHONETICS: ARR-kon RANK/POSITION: Judge; oversees court proceedings. - Conservator. PHONETICS: KUN-serv-a-torr RANK/POSITION: Counsel; prepares criminals confessions - Nestor PHONETICS: NESS-torr RANK/POSITION: Advisor; protect criminal's rights I. MINISTRY of JUSTICE: An Archon's chief role is to oversee court proceedings and listen to evidence brought forth by the conservator. Although the verdict is known before the trial begins, the Archon's role is to confirm the verdict before all of Cardassian by public viewers displayed throughout the Cardassian system. In addition, the Conservator role is to ensure that the accused signs a confession of guilt before the trial begins, so that it may be displayed for the citizens to read. The Conservator helps the accused concede to the wisdom of the state and to prepare him or her to accept the inevitable-guilty verdict (execution). SOURCE: DSN "Tribunal" 2.5 Territorial Features A. LOCATION: Cardassia Prime is the Empire's homeworld. It is located 'west' of the Federation. - The Cardassian system is less than twenty hours from Deep Space Nine and the planet Bajor. B. SYSTEMS/TERRITORIES/SECTORS/ZONES/CITIES/PLANETS: Names System: [SYS] Territory: [TER] Sector: [SEC] Demilitarized Zone: [DMZ] City: [CTY] Planet: [PLT] - Almatha [SEC] PHONETICS: ALL-matha LOCATION: Demilitarized zone near outpost sixty-one. SOURCE: DSN "Defiant" - Arawath Colony [SYS] PHONETICS: ARR-rawath LOCATION: A Cardassian colony where Enabran Tain retired. It's less than a days journey from DSN by a Federation Runabout. SOURCE: DSN "The Wire" - Badlands [DMZ] PHONETICS: BAD-lands LOCATION: A stretch of the Cardassian/Federation border which is plagued by plasma storms, making it quite dangerous to ships. It is also a hiding place for Maquis ships. SOURCE: DSN "The Maquis, Part I" - Bryma Colony [SYS] PHONETICS: BRY-maa LOCATION: Weapons depot supplying the Cardassian colonists in the fight against the Maquis. The Bryma system has an Oort cloud near it which can hide small ships. SOURCE: DSN "The Maquis, Part II" - Cardassia [PLT] PHONETICS: KARR-dass-see-uh LOCATION: Homeworld of the Cardassian race. In the Cardassian system. SOURCE: TNG "The Chase" - Cardassia IV [PLT] PHONETICS: KARR-dass-see-uh LOCATION: Where one of the prison camps are based. In the Cardassian system. SOURCE: DSN "Homecoming" - Cardassia V [PLT] PHONETICS: KARR-dass-see-uh LOCATION: Where a museum is located. Quark's cousin, Kono, stole an artifact from it. In the Cardassian system. SOURCE: DSN "Shadowplay" - Cardassian Navigational Control Post 24 [TER] PHONETICS: KARR-dass-see-uh LOCATION: Major Kira and O'Brien bluffed their way past the guards while en route to a Cardassian prison camp. In the Cardassian system. SOURCE: DSN "Homecoming" - Cardassia Prime [PLT] PHONETICS: KARR-dass-see-uh LOCATION: Home of the Central Command headquarters. In the Cardassian system. SOURCE: DSN "Tribunal" - Celtris III [PLT] PHONETICS: SELL-triss LOCATION: A Cardassian planet, uninhabited. It was used to lure Captain Jean-Luc Picard into captivity. Also, home to a species of bats called lynars. In the Cardassian system. SOURCE: TNG "Chain of Command, Part I" - Cuellar [SYS] PHONETICS: CELL-larr LOCATION: A star system located in Cardassian space. It was the location of a Cardassian science station that was destroyed by the U.S.S. Phoenix in 2367. Phoenix captain, Benjamin Maxwell, believed the station to be a military installation. In addition, it is noted that the system connects into three sectors of space and is off strategic value to the Cardassians. SOURCE: TNG "The Wounded" - Fahleena Three [N/A] PHONETICS: FAH-lee-naa LOCATION: One of the stops made by the Velarians on their dolamide-shipping route to the Cardassians. Major Kira accused the Velarians that they were making shipments to Cardassia. SOURCE: DSN "Dramatis Personae" - Gallitepp [TER] PHONETICS: GALLAH-tepp LOCATION: A Cardassian forced labor camp on Bajor where many atrocities were committed against the Bajoran people. It was under the command of Gul Darhe'el. Also, known as the "Butcher of Gallitepp." SOURCE: DSN "Duet" - Haru Outpost [SYS] PHONETICS: HAH-ruu LOCATION: As part of their terrorist war against the Cardassians, Kira Nerys and other Bajoran freedom frighters conducted raids on the Hru Outpost. SOURCE: DSN "Past Prologue" - Hakton VII [DMZ] PHONETICS: HAWK-tonn LOCATION: Three Federation settlers were killed there in retaliation for the destruction of the Bok'Nor. SOURCE: DSN "The Maquis, Part II" - Kelrabi [SYS] PHONETICS: KELL-rab-bee LOCATION: Destination of a Cardassian supply ship intercepted by the U.S.S. Phoenix and the Enterprise-D in 2367. In Cardassian space. SOURCE: DSN "The Wounded" - Kraus IV [N/A] PHONETICS: KRAWS LOCATION: Source of silk used by Garak. SOURCE: DSN "The Measure of Man" - Kora Two [SYS] PHONETICS: KORRA LOCATION: Where the Cardassian military academy is based. Aamin Marritza resided there and worked as an instrustor at the academy, teaching filing. SOURCE: DSN "Duet" - Lakat City [CTY] PHONETICS: LAH-kat LOCATION: Cardassia Prime where a amusement center is based. Dukat was going to take his son, Mikor, there for his eleventh birthday. - Lazon II Labor Camp [SYS] PHONETICS: LAY-zahn LOCATION: A prison camp on Cardassia II. Tom Riker, a member of the Maquis, was sentence to spend life their when he was arrested in the Cardassian system for trespassing. SOURCE: DSN "Defiant" - McAllister C-5 Nebula [TER] PHONETICS: Mac-cal-liss-ster LOCATION: Protostellar cloud located seven light-years inside Cardassian space, some eleven light- years from planet Minos Korva. In 2369, a Cardassian invasion fleet hid inside the nebula while apparently preparing to attack the Minos Korva sector. The fleet's time inside the nebula was limited due to the intense particle flux within, which caused degradation of the spacecraft hulls. SOURCE: DSN "Chain of Command, Part II" - Mariah Four [N/A] PHONETICS: MAH-ri-ahh LOCATION: Planet that Valerian vessel Sherval Das visited when delivering dolamide, a chemical energy source, to the Cardassians. SOURCE: DSN "Dramatis Personae" - Minos Korva [TER] PHONETICS: MYNOS KORR-vah LOCATION: A Federation planet, four light-years from the Cardassian border. During the Federation/Cardassian war of the early 2360's, the Cardassians attempted to annex the planet, but were unsuccessful. In 2369, Starfleet contingency plans placed the Enterprise-D leading a fleet to defend Minos Korva and the surrounding sector in the event of a feared Cardassian invasion. SOURCE: TNG "Chain of Command, Part II" - Omeckla III Shipyards [TER] PHONETICS: OH-meck-lah LOCATION: Third planet in the Orias system in Cardassian space. The planet is desolate. SOURCE: DSN "Defiant" - Orias [SYS] PHONETICS: OH-rye-iss LOCATION: A Cardassian shipyard is located on Omeckla III in the Orias system. It's under the direct authority of the Obsidian Order. SOURCE: DSN "Defiant" - Pollak V [PLT] PHONETICS: POLE-lac LOCATION: In Cardassian space. The planet was attacked by Bajoran terrorist. Their first strike against the Cardassians off-world. SOURCE: DSN "Shakaar" - Sector 21503 [SEC] PHONETICS: N/A LOCATION: Federation space near the Cardassian border. The Enterprise-D conducted a mapping survey there in 2367. SOURCE: DSN "The Wounded" - Sector 21505 [SEC] PHONETICS: N/A LOCATION: Located in Cardassian space, a Cardassian science station was destroyed by the U.S.S. Phoenix. SOURCE: DSN "The Wounded" - Terok Nor PHONETICS: TERR-rock LOCATION: Former orbital mining station during the Cardassian occupation of Bajor. The Cardassians abandoned the station in 2369. Starfleet took command at the request of the Bajoran Provincial government and renamed it Deep Space Nine. It's under the Command of Captain Benjamin Sisko. Also, it's less than twenty hours from the Cardassian border. SOURCE: DSN "Emissary, Part I" - Tormon V [PLT] PHONETICS: TORR-men LOCATION: A Class-M planet near the Cardassian border which houses several smugglers who regularly make runs into Cardassian space. In 2369, Captain Picard, Dr. Crusher, and Lieutenant Worf traveled to Tormon V to secure "discreet" transportation to planet Celtris III for a covert Starfleet mission. SOURCE: DSN "Chain of Command, Part I" - Ultima Thule [PLT] PHONETICS: ULL-tah-ma THU-lee LOCATION: Where a Dolamide purification plant produced weapons-grade dolamide. The Velarians supplied extremely pure dolamide, processed on Ultima Thule, to the Cardassians during the occupation of planet Bajor. SOURCE: DSN "Dramatis Personae" - Umoth VIII [DMZ] PHONETICS: OO-moth LOCATION: One of the border colonies in the Demilitarized Zone. Thirty-five Federation settlers had to be hospitalized after eating from sabotaged, public food replicators. SOURCE: DSN "The Maquis, Part II" - Unethra System [SYS] PHONETICS: OON-neth-raa LOCATION: In the Cardassian system. Enabran Tain has a safehouse located on the third planet in the Unethra system. SOURCE: DSN "Improbable Cause" - Velos VII Internment Camp [TER] PHONETICS: VAY-los LOCATION: Where Dr. Dekon Elig, a Bajoran, was imprisoned. He was killed there in 2360 while trying to escape from the facility. SOURCE: DSN "Babel" - Valo [SYS] PHONETICS: VAH-lo LOCATION: Neutral space near the Cardassian border. Many Bajorans resettled there after the homeworld was annexed, in 2340. The system contains three class-M planets. 2.6 Foreign Relations A. Cardassian and Federation conflicts - ARMISTICE BAJOR/CARDASSIA [2371] Kai Winn met with Legate Turrel of the Cardassian Central Command on Deep Space Nine. They signed an armistice granting war reparations to the Bajoran people. SOURCE: DSN "Life Support" - BAJOR [2369] Class-M planet, homeworld to the Bajoran race. Located near the Cardassian border. Bajor was claimed as Cardassian territory from about 2328. The Cardassians formally annexed Bajor in 2339, and occupied the planet until 2369, when Bajoran resistance fighters finally drove them away. Upon the departure of the Cardassians, the Bajoran Provisional government requested Federation assistance in operating the former Cardassian space station, Terok Nor. However, since the discovery of the wormhole, the Cardassians want to reclaim Bajor. The Federation's presence is the only thing preventing them from launching a full-scale invasion. SOURCE: DSN "Emissary" - Bajor [2369] Class-M planet, homeworld to the Bajoran race. Located near the Cardassian border. In 2328, the Cardassian Empire claimed the Bajoran homeworld. It was formally annexed in 2339, and occupied by the Cardassian race until 2369, when Bajor resistance fighters finally forced them to withdraw. SOURCE: TNG "Ensign Ro" and DSN "Emissary" - BAJORAN WORMHOLE [2369] Discovered two weeks after the withdrawal of the Cardassian occupation of Bajor. Newly appointed Starfleet Commander Sisko, with the aide of Lieutenant Jadzia Dax, entered the Denorios Belt in the Bajoran star system. The wormhole was artificially generated for stable passage to the Gamma Quadrant. It was form by particles called verterons that allow a vessel to pass through on impulse power. Bajoran religious faith interprets the safe passage as evidence of guidance by the Prophets, so some conservative religious leaders object strongly to the teaching of such scientific concepts. In addition, the wormhole is also known as the Celestial Temple, home of the Prophets. SOURCE: DSN "Emissary" - COMMUNICATIONS ARRAY [2371] A joint project between Bajor and Cardassia. The Cardassian Ministry of Science believed it could devise a communications array that would enable ships to stay in contact with the Alpha Quadrant while exploring the Gamma Quadrant. An Obsidian Order agent was sent to Deep Space Nine in the guise of a science officer, along with two credible science officers, to sabotage the mission, possibly destroying the fragile peace between Cardassia and Bajor, as well as the armistice with the Federation. SOURCE: DSN "Destiny" - DEEP SPACE NINE [2369] Old Cardassian mining station built in orbit of planet Bajor. Deep Space nine was built in 2351, then abandoned in 2369 when the Cardassians relinquished their claim on Bajor, and retreated from the region. SOURCE: DSN "Emissary" - DEMILITARIZED ZONE [2370] On stardate 47751.2, Vice-Admiral Alynna Nechayev informed Captain Picard that the negotiations with Cardassia has concluded. The Federation and Cardassian Empire agreed on a neutral zone between Federation and Cardassian borders. Planets that once fell under Federation jurisprudence were now Cardassian territory. A closer examination of the zones layout show the Cardassians have a strategic advantage. My theory is some planets are less than three light-years from the Federation border. SOURCE: TNG "Journey's End" - DORVAN V [2370] Native Americans colonized Dorvan V, a former Federation colony, which fell under Cardassian jurisprudence after the Demilitarized Zone was established. Admiral Nechayev ordered Captain Jean-Luc Picard to resettle the colony on another planet before the Cardassians claim sovereignty. SOURCE: DSN "Journey's End" - GAMMA QUADRANT [2369] One-quarter of the entire Milky Way Galaxy, the portion most distant from the United Federation of Planets. At its closest point, the Gamma Quadrant is some 40,000 light-years from Federation space. It would take seventy Earth years to reach the Quadrant. SOURCE: DSN "Emissary" - MCALLISTER C-5 NEBULA [2369] Protostellar cloud located seven light-years inside Cardassian space, some eleven light-years from planet Minos Korva. In 2369, a Cardassian invasion fleet hid inside the Nebula while apparently preparing to attack the Minos Korva sector. The fleet's time inside the nebula was limited due to the intense particle flux within, which caused a degradation of spacecraft hulls. SOURCE: TNG "Chain of Command, Part Two" - MINOS KORVA [2369] A Federation planet located in a sector four light-years from the Cardassian/Federation border. During the Federation/Cardassian war of the early 2360's, the Cardassians attempted to annex the planet, but were unsuccessful. In 2369, Starfleet contingency plans placed the Enterprise-D leading a fleet to defend Minos Korva and the surrounding sector in the event of a feared Cardassian invasion. SOURCE: TNG "Chain of Command, Part One and Two" - OMARION NEBULA [2370] The Founders (Changelings) homeworld. Odo discovered his people lived on a planet in the Omarion Nebula when the U.S.S. Defiant was attacked by the Jem'Hadar during a peaceful mission to locate the Founders. This is also where the Great Link is located. SOURCE: DSN "The Search, Part Two" - SELDONIS IV CONVENTION [unknown] Interstellar treaty governing the treatment of prisoners of war. Both the Federation of Planets and the Cardassian Union were signatories to the accord. Following Captain Picard's capture by the Cardassians in 2369, Picard was tortured by Gul Madred, in violation of the treaty. Madred claimed Picard had been acting without Federation orders, and was therefore not entitled to the protection of the Seldonis Convention. SOURCE: TNG "Chain of Command, Part one" SETLIK III [unknown] A Federation outpost that was the victim of a sneak attack during Cardassian war. Nearly one hundred civilians were killed in the incident, including the wife and children of Captain Benjamin Maxwell. The Starship Rutledge, commanded by Maxwell, arrived, at Setlik III the morning after the attack and was only able to save a few civilians in an outlying area. Years later, the Cardassians admitted the raid was a mistake, that they had incorrectly believed the civilian outpost was actually a staging place for a massive Federation attack. SOURCE: TNG "The Wounded" - SOLARION V [2368] A Federation colony located in the Solarion system, near Cardassian space. In 2368, the Solarion IV colony was attacked and destroyed by forces claiming to be Bajoran terrorists. It was later found that the colony was attacked by Cardassian operatives trying to cause distrust between the Federation and the Bajorans. SOURCE: TNG "Ensign Ro" 2.7 History A. FIRST HEBITIAN CIVILIZATION: Ancient people of Cardassia. The burial vaults of the Hebitians were uncovered on Cardassia in the late 2160's. The tombs were said to be magnificent and were reputed to have been filled with many jeweled artifacts. SOURCE: TNG "Chain of Command, Part I" B. CARDASSIA: A Class-M planet poor in natural resources, but in ancient times was home to a splendid civilization whose legendary ruins are still considered some of the most remarkable in the galaxy. Most of the archaeological treasures were plundered by starving Cardassians, as well as by the military, which sought funds for their war against the Federation. SOURCE: TNG "Chain of Command, Part I" C. RELIGION: The Cardassians were once a peaceful and spiritual people. But because their planet was resource-poor, starvation and disease were rampant, and people died by the millions. With the rise of the military to power, new territories and technology were acquired by violence, at the cost of millions of lives sacrificed to the war effort. SOURCE: TNG "Chain of Command, Part I" D. WAR: Federation/Cardassian border wars was reported to have taken place from 2355 to 2367. In 2367, a historic peace treaty established a fragile peace between the Federation and the Cardassian Union. Starfleet Admiral Edward Jellico was partially credited for the negotiations. Among other things, the treaty provided that captives of either government would be allowed to see a representative from a neutral planet following their incarceration. [TNG: "Chain of Command"] On stardate 47751.2, Vice-Admiral Alynna Nechayev, informed Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the Enterprise-D, the treaty between Cardassia and the Federation has been finalized after three years of negotiations. The Federation and Cardassia established a demilitarized zone between the Cardassian and Federation borders. Several planets from both governments have been relinquished and reclaimed under a Federation and Cardassian territory. Several colonies argued against the plan and refused to leave their homes in face of Cardassian jurisdiction. [TNG: "Journey's End"] The Cardassians attitude against aliens were brought to light during repeated attacks against former Federation colonist. Currently, they attempt to force the colonist to relinquish their property to the Cardassian Empire. But the colonist refuse so they formed a terrorist group called the Maquis to defend against Cardassian sneak raids. E. PEACE: The fragile peace between Cardassia and the Federation is weakening due to the repeated skirmishes between the Maquis and Cardassian renegades. SOURCE: DSN: "Maquis, Part One and Two and Defiant") 2.8 Medicine A. HYPROSPRAY: Their version looks similar to the Federation's, but the end is twisted at the point of injection. B. DESEGRENINE INJECTION: A chemical given to Obsidian Order field operatives when they return to Cardassia Prime after a deep covert mission. The injection stimulates memories, help them to remember they are Cardassian citizens under covert operations. SOURCE: DSN "Second Skin" C. DERMATIRAELIAN PLASTISCINE: Medication used to maintain the effects of cosmetic surgery. Aamin Marritza took it for five years after altering his face to that of Gul Darhe'el. 2.9 Psychology A. MENTALITY: Cardassians are very protective of their people and territories. They don't involve outsiders in their political affairs, nor permit anyone to travel in their space without the express permission of the Cardassian Empire. This rule is enforced by military patrol vessels, strategically placed at perimeter checkpoints throughout Cardassian space and territories within the their system and the demilitarized zone. The Cardassians take a strong offense in others protecting their enemies. Hence, another slight against the Federation when they occupied Deep Space Nine, former property of the Cardassia, and accepted an alliance with Bajor. Captain Edward Jellico has been quoted, "Cardassians are like timber wolves, predators. They're bold in large numbers, and cautious by themselves. They have a distinctive need to establish a dominant position in any social gathering." But not all Cardassians are one-dimensionally evil. Some walk the line between duty, choice, and belief. In addition, Cardassians like orderliness in all things. They prefer things in sets of three. Cardassians believe that there is no dilemma that cannot be solved with a disciplined mind. 2.10 Geology A. JEVONITE: A valuable gemstone found on planet Cardassia. Many of the artifacts discovered in the burial vaults of the First Hebitian Civilization were manufactured from jevonite. Most of these treasures were either stolen or sold by the Cardassian military to finance their war effort. 2.11 Archeology A. When famine and disease struck Cardassia, archeological sites and tombs were plundered, with priceless artifacts stolen. After the military rose to power, many valuable objects were sold to finance invasions of alien worlds. Many of Cardassia's ancient artifacts are preserved in a vault under the direct control of the Obsidian Order. 2.12 Architecture A. GENERAL: The Cardassians are considered to be master architects. They prefer everything in sets of three. Presently, the reason for this preference hasn't been explained. In addition, They believe in honesty in design and want to see the columns and beams which make up a structure, rather than disguise them. Hence, the turbolifts are not hidden by doors, they can be seen to actually move up and down with people on them. Also, the Cardassians militaristic views is a major part in their designs structure. Platforms are placed in offices, on warships, and stations, raised at the highest level so people would always look up in respect. The Cardassian mind prefer balance to symmetry; ellipses to circles, angels to straight lines, and hard metallic surfaces and dark colors. Lighting is dim, more than by human standards. This is accentuated by the use of dark colors in their design. Doors often have slanted lines on them (angular detail)and are trapezoidal in structure. The doors often sound as if they operate by aide of a "hydraulic" system. B. TEROK NOR: Federation designation Deep Space nine, consist of eighteen docking rings: six pylons with twelve outer rings. Three top docking pylons, three bottom docking pylons, and concentric circles of the docking ring (docking platforms total twelve). Access conduits are made from duranium about two-meters thick. During the Cardassian occupation, ore was mined and processed on the station by Bajoran workers who separated the ore from the rock on the loading bay, then dumped it down a chute to the ore processing facility, where it was processed. After the initial preparation, the processed ore was sent to a secondary refinement facility on level thirty-three to be purified. Twenty-thousands ton of ore would travel through the chute each day. The temperature in the ore processing facility would reach fifty-five celsius. Many of the Bajoran workers didn't survive the harsh conditions. C. STARSHIPS: The bridge on a Cardassian warship does not conform to set pattern of design, nor does the coloring and lighting. They seem to differ with each episode. The corridors are dark and morose with metal grates used as a floor. Also, support beams, pipes, and ducts are visible, not hidden behind access panels. D. CREATURE COMFORTS: Cardassian beds are generally not considered comfortable by human standards. 2.13 Society and Traits - PEOPLE: There is a limited amount of information on Cardassians in general, so one must hypothesize when composing thoughts on the enigmatic race. The information made available to fans is a mixture of quotes and biased opinions from the Cardassians and Bajorans, as well as various personal beliefs of the Federation and Starfleet officers. However, the episodes manage to give us a glimpse of Cardassian society. For instance, orphaned children have no status in Cardassian society. Nevertheless, their significance was revealed when a prominent Cardassian official mentioned that family is everything to the Cardassians, and how several generations share dinner at the same table. In a recent episode, a female Cardassian declared that she was extremely fertile, and that she could provide many healthy children. The statement implied that Cardassians view fertility as a commodity, the more fertile a person is, their position in society is established; they also seem to garner highly respected positions. Considering that the Cardassian race suffered greatly when famine and disease struck, and the countless people died during invasions and war, it is my belief that fertility is revered. - TRAITS: Cardassians are known for their photographic memory. Their ability to decipher and translate language at a rapid rate is astonishing. Also, their hearing isn't as acute as humans. In addition, prefer a much warmer climate than humans; ninety degrees fahrenheit appears to be their comfort level. It is obvious that the Cardassians evolved from warm-blooded, nocturnal creatures. 2.14 Education - "Education is power. Joy is vulnerability." A Cardassian belief? When a Cardassian reaches the age of four he/she is put through intense mind training exercises. This helps develop their mind at an early stage, creating a higher intellect in the Cardassian race. Educational attainment is regarded as a major source of social status. Education is a creative force in Cardassian society, creating the knowledge that embraces existing social and political structures. It is said that the Cardassian educational system is unparallel in the Alpha Quadrant. - INQUISITORS This title was mentioned in the DSN episode "Second Skin." Legate Ghemor mentioned his wife was an inquisitor at the Central University. was available. I theorize an inquisitor is an investigator. But the DSN writer's implied an inquisitor is a teacher. 2.15 Animals - WOMPAT Animal often kept as a pet by Cardassian children. It appear to be white and furry. SOURCE: DSN "Chain of Command, Part Two" - LYNARS Cardassian bats. They live in caves. SOURCE: DSN "The Siege" - VOLES Small, hairless creatures that infiltrate access conduits and chew on the wires. SOURCE: DSN "Playing God" 2.16 Clothing - Military uniforms are black with a bodysuit worn underneath the armor; a metal torso, chest, and arm plates. Metal boots are worn with shin guards to protect the limbs. The communicator is part of a large band which they wear around their wrist. - Civilians wear dark colors; brown, rust, gray, and black. A two-piece outfit, the top usually have an inverted triangle design, with the lower part being nondescript. 2.17 Food and Beverage - KANAR: A dark, thick syrup-like beverage favored by Cardassians. According to Glinn Daro, the drink took "some getting used to." SOURCE: TNG "The Wounded" - TASPAR EGG: The ova of a Cardassian fowl. Boiled taspar egg is considered a delicacy on Cardassia. However, the raw egg of the taspar is considered revolting to Cardassians. SOURCE: TNG "Chain of Command, Part Two" - SEM'HAL STEW: Food served to the Cardassian Aamin Marritza while a prisoner on Deep Space Nine in 2369. SOURCE: DSN "Duet" - YAMOK SAUCE: Cardassian foodstuff and condiment. SOURCE: DSN "Duet" - LARISH PIE: Cardassian food served at Quark's. SOURCE: DSN [N/A] - RED LEAF TEA: A beverage ordered by Gul Dukat and Gilora Rajal. SOURCE: DSN "Civil Defense" and "Destiny" - REGOVA EGGS: Appeared to be the equivalent of deviled eggs, a human delicacy. They were greenish in color and stuffed with some creamy looking substance. SOURCE: DSN "Destiny" 3.0 MILITARY 3.1 Command Structure A. CENTRAL COMMAND A body of leaders within the Cardassian military. Presently, the only rank Command leaders appear to hold is "Legate." The word "legate" appear to be taken from the French word "legget" meaning delegate/special envoy, comparable to a Starfleet Ambassador. The Central Command currently controls the government, and oversees all ministries; science, justice, education and military, to name a few. B. RANKS The military consist of several orders. Currently, the number totals nine. - LEGATE: A delegate and/or special envoy. - GUL: An equivalent to a Starfleet Captain. Some Gul's command an order, thus appearing to have the same power and influence as a Starfleet Fleet-Admiral. Gul Dukat is in command of the Second Order (Fleet-Captain). - GLINN: Glinn's appear to be second-in-command. When the Gul is away, he takes command of the bridge. In addition, Glinn's are referred to as aides during diplomatic negotiations. D. THE OBSIDIAN ORDER: Was established over five hundred years ago. It is another authority within the government, its intelligence core. They are exceptional information gatherers that are reputed to be more ruthless than the Romulans "Tal Shiar," and are brutal in their interrogations tactics. The Order believe information is a powerful tool that could be used as a weapon. So they save anything that comes into its possession. They have libraries of data transcripts; vaults of ancient artifacts; even cryogenic chambers of biological subjects. "When it comes to the Order, nothing is impossible." Although the Obsidian Order is given broad liberality, they can't overrule decisions and commands instituted by the Central Command. Any autonomy given to the Obsidian Order in investigating members of the military is a privilege granted by Central Command and is revokable at any time. 4.0 THEORIES 4.1 Society A. CHILDREN: War Orphans. - Some fans suggest that the Cardassian children left behind on Bajor were war orphans;Perhaps products of illicit unions between Cardassian troops and female Bajorans. Although that may be true in some, if not, most cases, I believe some of those unions weren't forced. But still,the fact remain: children without parents have no status in Cardassian society. Let's take look at Cardassian society. Cardassians believe family is everything, children being the most important. How could they leave a child behind just because he's orphaned? Perhaps years of living on a planet poor in natural resource, struggling to survive has harden them. I don't think that's the reason. They have acquired too many territories and technology to be a poor state-so that brings us to their beliefs, which we, the fans, know nothing about. Talk about postulation! Whew:) Okay...stand back and give me room. B. STATUS QUO: The Populace In class society everyone lives as a member of a particular class, and every kind of thinking, without exception, is stamped with the brand of a class." In Cardassian society everything appear to be determined by your social caste; marriage, career, land, political and social status. Those of the military caste marry in order to secure their career and position in the government. Thus all marriages are politically motivated. It is my belief, the upper echelon of the Central Command often have two wives. The second marriage, being of less importance, is for companionship and love. C. MARRIAGE - First wife is chosen for the following: political clout, wealth, intellect, educational training, social status. Second wife: the same apply, but the importance is less because the first marriage is mainly for political advancement. - ROLES: Although males dominate society, the females importance is greatly recognized in population growth. Offsprings are important to Cardassian survival, so it's not uncommon for a family to have large families. - CHILDREN: They are recognized from both marriages. SEE: Section 4.1, B. 4.2 War A. SOCIAL CHANGES: Some say a civil war is brewing. This could take several directions. First, a war could ensue between the political factions; military, civilians, and the Order, the goal would be control of the Empire. Civilians, no longer satisfied with the current government, and the continued power struggle between the Obsidian Order and the Central Command, seek change; a new order where civilians have the right to choose who they want to lead them. True, if the military hadn't taken control of the government millions would have starved, and although millions have died during the military's campaign to acquire new territories and technology for the Empire, the need outweighed the consequences. However, the Central Command and Obsidian Order are abusing their authority through absurd dictums and illogical rulings. In addition, The Obsidian Order's unprovoked and unsupported attack on the Founders and Dominion confirmed that the government was spiraling out of control. It's feasible that the people foresee a collapse of the Cardassian Empire due to the military's "militarization of the economy." Millions were sacrificed for the war effort; territories were acquired for survival of the Cardassian race. Nevertheless, the current government, controlled by the Central Command, seemed to be exhausting itself economically, socially, and militarily, "while worlds that were once defeated are rising." For instance, the planet Bajor was claimed as Cardassian territory in 2328, and formally annexed in 2339. Eventually, Bajoran resistance fighters drove them from their homeworld. It is my opinion that it wasn't physical strength that forced the Cardassians to withdraw; it was the fact that the Cardassians were embroiled in a border war with the United Federation of Planets, a conglomeration of worlds that the Cardassians strongly believed they could demolish at the cost of countless lives. Worlds like Bajor were invaded and seized, then systematically stripped of its natural resources to supply the military and fuel their economy. Over a period of years, the government had shown that it has nearly exhausted its potential, and the Cardassian people did not gain the appropriate benefits from the enormous resources that were acquired, then expended in the process of invasions and wars. There is a strong need for economic and social reform; those who oppose will undeniably fight for their current way of life. B. RELIGION: Cardassians were once a spiritual and peaceful race. Perhaps people want to see a return of that era lost long ago. My theory is religion was nearly abolished centuries ago, since it could not play a capitalist ideology. Religion appealed to individual conscience (choice) and reason (logic). This system did not feed starving Cardassians, so it was functionally necessary to negate the system and let the military rise to power. Cardassians haven't forsaken their religion entirely, just replaced it with a system more expedient to the needs of the Empire. In addition, it is my belief that there was a split among religious leaders. Those who oppose the current political structure of the government and those who embrace it, and all the luxury it entitles them. The opposing religious faction shun the current government. They claim the government cease to believe in standards and moral superiority. They adopt and connive at many things which predecessors would have never considered. It's not only injurious to the Cardassian Empire, but dishonorable. C. SYMBOL OF FEAR: The Central Command perpetuate fear through laws, codes of conduct, reprisals. Also, by using the Order to enforce loyalty among the citizens, they could be assured of a Cardassian's allegiance. 5.0 CREDITS Talsvar Kardassu! [Glory to Cardassia!] In creating the Cardassian race, costume designer Bob Blackman and makeup designer Michael Westmore worked together to give the Cardassians and overall "snakelike" look; the dress helmets briefly seen in TNG: The Wounded were never used again. Westmore based the unusual makeup and shoulder pieces, which take at least two and a half hours to apply, on a passing image that had struck him two years earlier: an abstract painting in a Ventura Boulevard store of a wide-shouldered woman with what looked like a spoon in the center of her forehead. Modelmaker Rick Sternbach evolved the first Galor-class Cardassian ship seen, the Trager, from a pod ship to a scorpionlike design to the simple Egyptian-ankh look; Miarecki and Tom Hudson built it. The Cardassian homeworld would be located "west" of the UFP on art department maps and sector numbers, opposite the Klingons and Romulans; their energy weapons were pink but made to be amber after the airing of TNG: The Wounded. SOURCE: The Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion by Larry Nemecek. RICK BERMAN and MICHAEL PILLER [Executive Producers] Two people in charge of everything on ST:DSN. On the creative side, they approve everything from each word of the script to the number of Bajoran extras on the Promenade. On the business side, they are responsible for approving senior staff and principle actors, and all financial matters related to the series' production. I should note that the Cardassians were orginally conceived by Jeri Taylor in "Tng: The Wounded"--Berman and Piller were able to work off her ideas. SOURCE: The Cardassian Inquisitor [newsletter for the Marc Alaimo Fan Club-- Lana Pennington] MICHAEL WESTMORE [Makeup Designer] Heads the makeup department on ST:DSN, as well as applying makeup for some of the key actors. On the Paramount lot, a new makeup facility for Westmore is being constructed, which will be able to support four major productions at once, two of which will be Deep Space Nine and Voyager. The others will be used for features or other television series as needed. ROBERT BLACKMAN [[Costume Designer] Heads a crew that includes other designers and costumes responsible for making, altering, and repairing everything worn on ST:DSN. A rule-of-thumb estimating cost-$1,000 a costume, and that's just for something as simple as Kira's uniform. MICHAEL OKUDA [Scenic Art Supervisor/Technical Consultant] RICK STERNBACH [Senior Illustrator/Technical Consultant] Scenic art is that which actually appears on screen, such as computer graphics, signs, and equipment consoles. Illustrations are most often of props, vehicles, and sets-that is, things that will be constructed for which the illustration is a guide. Michael has created some wonderfully creative and authentic looking Cardassian graphics. He used actual video monitors in sets, suitably redesigned so they looked like alien equipment. Rick's work was critical to the Cardassian design aesthetic that distinguish the unique architecture of Deep Space Nine from other Star Trek series. He designed the first Cardassian warship, and Cardassian technology seen on the show. He also works closely with Michael Okuda. RICARDO DELGADO {Illustrator] Helped refine the Cardassian approach design. His early sketched of key Deep Space Nine sets created an almost blade runner-type depth of unexpected detail, including twisted vines growing around metal posts, and the Promenade's Ferengi ATM machine, which Delgado created without it being called for any script. JOE HODGES [Set Designer] Created those distinctive Cardassian beams, and was the first to sketch out some arms that were only partial for Deep Space Nine station. Those arms instantly became the station's docking pylons, and were refined on computer to forevermore become a part of Cardassian architecture, especially noticeable in the Promenade, where the walkway supports echo the docking pylons' design almost identically. 5.1 Author's Tidbits It is my belief that, Michael Westmore, referred to Earth's own prehistoric reptiles and mammals when he designed the Cardassian exoskeleton. More than 85 percent of Earth's history to date took place during the Precambrian era (4.6 MYA to 0.57 MYA), largely before the event of multicellular life. That's a valuable resource of information for any writer and make up artist to use when creating a framework for a character. What does this have to do with Cardassians? During the Mesozoic era (225 to 65 MYA), a group of large active reptiles called therapsids died out in 190 MYA, but left behind were descendants called mammals warm-blooded creatures that feed their young with milk from mammary glands. The Cardassians are consider reptile/mammalian in which their genetic makeup is similar to humans, as well as Romulans and Klingons. Due to this shared genetic trait, it is possible that a union between separate species could result in an offspring, with a few genetic alterations to ensure its survival. SOURCE: [TNG] "The Chase" 5.2 Books A. Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion - by Larry Nemeck, published by Pocket Books B. Star Trek: The Next Generation Technical Manual - by Rick Sternbach and Michael Okuda, published by Pocket Books C. Star Trek: Where No One Has Gone Before - by J.M. Dillard, published by Pocket Books D. Star Trek: The Making of Deep Space Nine - by Judith and Garfield Reeves-Stevens, published by Pocket Books E. Star Trek: The Encyclopedia - by Debbie Mirek, Denise and Michael Okuda, published by Pocket Books F. The International Thesaurus of Quotations - by Rhoda Thomas Tripp, published by Harper and Row G. The Cardassian Inquisitor, newsletter for the Marc Alaimo Fan Club published by Lana Pennington 5.3 Magazines A. Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Volume six - Interview with Marc Alaimo by Ian Spelling 5.4 Videos A. Star Trek: Deep Space Nine Behind the Scenes - hosted by Terry Farrell, distribute by Paramount Pictures 5.5 Star Trek: The Next Generation episodes A. "The Wounded" B. "Ensign Ro" C. "Chain of Command, Part I" D. "Chain of Command, Part II" E. "The Chase" F. "Parallels" G. "Lower Decks" H. "Journey's End" 5.6 Star Trek: Deep Space Nine episodes A. "Emissary" B. "Past Prologue" C. "Babel" E. "Duet" F. "Cardassians" G. "Homecoming" H. "The Maquis, Part One" I. "The Maquis, Part II" J. "The Wire" K. "Tribunal" L. "Second Skin" M. "Civil Defense" N. "Defiant" O. "Explorers" P. "Improbable Cause" Q. "The Die Is Cast" 7.0 GRATEFUL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This is to all the people who put up with constant chatter about Cardassians. Thanks for all your help in reviewing and correcting this text. I couldn't have composed it with you.:) 7.1 Honorable Mentions A. Lana Pennington B. Robert Oliver C. Dukat's Women Social Club D. NekoCat E. DocsGirl F. TShandyEsq G. Christopher S. Leininger Thank you! Sincerely, Tiffany L. Edenfield -- **************************************************** "I assure you. I'm quite fertile. I could provide you with many healthy children, if that it what you desire. But, quite frankly, I think You're getting a little ahead of yourself." SOURCE: DSN "Destiny" Dr. Gilora Rejal alt.startrek.cardassian