Marakata

Of all the home worlds, the jungle planet of the Draconians has probably seen the most conflict. Since the Imperium invaded two centuries ago, the Draconians have rebelled no less than eight times. Each revolt, however, has ended in a bloody defeat at the hands of the Imperium’s superior numbers and firepower. As it stands today, Marakata is an occupied world with a closely watched population and so-called “terrorist” attacks occurring nearly every week.

Climate

The lush jungles of Marakata are carnivorous-like in their ability to devour anyone who enters them unprepared. Even large structures, if left unattended for a few years, disappear beneath creeping vines and quickly sprouting trees. Most visitors stay safely within the many large cities on the planet, or travel above the thick canopy in grav vehicles, not daring to set foot in the green forests below.

Points of Interest

Agniparvata

The tallest peak on Marakata is a volcano called Agniparvata. Still active, the mountain spews smoke and ash throughout the year, keeping most people away except for the bravest or the foolhardy. Agniparvata has a near-mystical reputation among Draconians and is featured prominently in their most famous myth.

According to legend, a two-headed dragon named Bonamalum lived inside the volcano. One of the heads, Bona, was good, while his brother, Malum, was evil. One day, a hero climbed the mountain and challenged Malum to combat. The evil side of the dragon agreed and attacked the hero. After a battle lasting seven days and seven nights, Malum’s head lay severed on the ground. Even as the hero rejoiced at his victory, however, he noticed that Bona was quickly bleeding to death from the wound that killed his evil brother. Although the two brothers were opposites, they needed each other to survive. Powerless to help, the hero could do nothing as the good dragon collapsed and died.

Sucikhata

The capital city of Sucikhata is situated on the edge of a dense jungle near the coast. A restive city, the capital has remained heavily guarded since the Imperium invaded two hundred years ago. Military vehicles routinely patrol the streets, and checkpoints restrict movement between the various neighborhoods.

Although the inhabitants of the city enjoy all the modern amenities one would expect, the architecture of Sucikhata gives it a more ancient appearance. Instead of concrete and plasteel, the buildings are constructed of stone blocks care-fully fitted together without mortar or cement. Since most buildings are only a few stories tall, the city has grown into a sprawling labyrinth, characterized by narrow alleys paved with large, flattened stones. Temples consisting of tiered pyramids are commonplace and visited by those praying for the fallen. Like everywhere else on the planet, vines and vegetation are prevalent within the city as the jungle attempts to take back what is rightfully its own.