Rakghouls and Taris Old Republic Lore Entries

The lore of the Old Republic is incredibly rich, and many pieces of this lore are captured through codex entries that can be discovered as you play the story, meet new groups and organizations, and find hidden lore objects. Below is a compilation of many of the lore codex entries from the planet of Taris, as well as the entries about the Rakghoul Plague in the Old Republic era.

Taris

Taris (Republic)

Location: Taris (Planet)

Taris was once a city-world like Coruscant. Three centuries ago, however, it was bombarded by the Sith Lord Darth Malak and left a toxic ruin. The years since have not been kind to Taris, as vegetation and animal life struggle to gain a foothold in the shattered skeleton of a planetary metropolis.

The Republic began to recolonize Taris less than a decade ago, and has suffered innumerable setbacks–everything from pirate attacks to the strange “rakghoul plague”. Nonetheless, the reconstruction effort continues, its proponents determined to prove that the Empire can never truly destroy greatness.

Taris (Imperial)

Location: Taris (Planet)

Taris was once a city-world, home to a planetary metropolis. Three centuries ago, however, it was bombarded by the great Darth Malak and left a toxic ruin. The years since have not been kind to Taris, as vegetation and animal life struggle to gain a foothold in shattered skyscrapers and habitats.

The Republic began to recolonize Taris less than a decade ago, aiming to make it into a symbol of Republic hope and steadfastness. In response, the Empire is mobilizing troops and beginning a full-scale assault. Early reports speak of fierce resistance from the Republic, as well as natural hazards in the form of wildlife and the mysterious “rakghoul plague.”

Brejik’s Run

Location: Taris (Rep)

The remains of an old swoop track, Brejik’s Run is named for Milos Brejik, a famous Tarisian swoop racer who turned scavenger after the destruction of Taris, using his swoop skills to quickly forage and deliver supplies to the few unfortunate survivors of the bombardment. Brejik’s Run has had many occupants over the centuries, as its large overhangs make good shelter from the harsh elements, but it currently hosts a Republic settlement and outpost–one of the earliest attempts to tame and rebuild Taris.

Brell Sediment

Location: Taris (Rep)

The Brell Sediment refers to a large area of Tarisian ruins dominated by a massive acidic lake and a former chemical plant. It gets its name–somewhat ironically–from Ark Brell, a leading environmentalist on Taris in the days before its destruction. Before the bombardment, Ark Brell set up several water purification and waste disposal plants on Taris, with the aim of turning the waste from Taris’s factories into alternative fuel sources and minimizing the waste produced by the massive city-world.

Legend has it that the collapse of one of his factories during the bombardment created the acid lake, although present rumor suggests that other, less well-intentioned groups on Taris may be the cause.

Dynamet General

Location: Taris (Rep)

Dynamet General was Taris’s foremost research hospital and led the galaxy in the development of cures for rare neurological diseases such as Cathington’s Disorder. Originally founded as Mercy General, the hospital was renamed a century before Taris’s destruction after the Dynamet Corporation, which donated a large sum of credits for the construction of a wing devoted to developing a cure for the rakghoul virus. Rumor states that a cure was found, but Taris was bombed shortly after and the hospital destroyed.

Endar Spire

Location: Taris (Rep)

The Republic cruiser Endar Spire was shot down over Taris during the Jedi Civil War in an attempt by Darth Malak to capture the young Jedi Bastila Shan. This event led directly to Taris’s ultimate destruction, securing the ship’s place in history.

Over the centuries, the Endar Spire’s husk has become a shelter to many different groups on Taris, including surviving settlers, pirates and scavengers. Its internal systems are believed to contain a bounty of information and useful materials to anyone with the will and ability to recover them.

Reclamation Base

Location: Taris (Rep)

As part of its efforts to rebuild and restore ruined Taris, the Republic has set up a reclamation base that acts as the headquarters and point of arrival for all who come to help with the reconstruction effort. The base was first established shortly after the Treaty of Coruscant, when it became clear that the Republic needed to shore up morale and show it could still stand strong. The Taris reclamation effort has become symbolic of the Republic’s will to restore life where the Empire brings only destruction.

Sinking City

Location: Taris (Rep)

The Sinking City is where the heart of old Taris collapsed into the world below during the bombardment. Taris’s most lively business and cultural districts have become a morass of urban decay. The ruins of Dynamet General Hospital, as well as massive building plates that once supported towering skyscrapers, provide shelter for rakghouls, pirates and scavengers. But the Sinking City promises to rise again–several attempts have been made to begin new construction in the area, and the Republic is focusing its reconstruction efforts on returning Taris to its former glory.

Tularan Marsh

Location: Taris (Rep)

Swampland has overtaken much of the area now called the Tularan Marsh. The origin of the name is unknown–before the bombardment, the Tularan Skyway was a major thoroughfare through the industrial zone surrounding one of Taris’s primary power plants, but who or what it was named after is a piece of history lost in the rubble.

Now the area is infested with rakghouls and pirates, and only a few intrepid representatives of the Republic venture this far into the unknown, untamed wilds of Taris.

Brejik’s Run

Location: Taris (Imp)

The remains of an old swoop track, Brejik’s Run is named for Milos Brejik, a famous Tarisian swoop racer who turned scavenger after the destruction of Taris, using his swoop skills to quickly forage and deliver supplies to the few unfortunate survivors of the bombardment. Brejik’s Run has had many occupants over the centuries, as its large overhangs make good shelter from the harsh elements, but it currently hosts a Republic settlement and outpost–one of the earliest attempts to tame and rebuild Taris.

Brell Sediment

Location: Taris (Imp)

The Brell Sediment refers to a large area of Tarisian ruins dominated by a massive acidic lake and a former chemical plant. It gets its name–somewhat ironically–from Ark Brell, a leading environmentalist on Taris in the days before its destruction. Before the bombardment, Ark Brell set up several water purification and waste disposal plants on Taris, with the aim of turning the waste from Taris’s factories into alternative fuel sources and minimizing the waste produced by the massive city-world.

Legend has it that the collapse of one of his factories during the bombardment created the acid lake, although present rumor suggests that other, less well-intentioned groups on Taris may be the cause.

Endar Spire

Location: Taris (Imp)

The Republic cruiser Endar Spire was shot down over Taris during the Jedi Civil War in an attempt by Darth Malak to capture the young Jedi Bastila Shan. This event led directly to Taris’s ultimate destruction, securing the ship’s place in history.

Over the centuries, the Endar Spire’s husk has become a shelter to many different groups on Taris, including surviving settlers, pirates and scavengers. Its internal systems are believed to contain a bounty of information and useful materials to anyone with the will and ability to recover them.

Republic Resettlement Zone

Location: Taris (Imp)

After the Treaty of Coruscant, the Republic set out to rebuild the demolished planet Taris and forge a symbol of renewed strength. As the operation grew, the Olaris Reclamation Base rose from the ashes and Republic forces tamed the surrounding jungle. But progress stalled after repeated setbacks in Taris’s hostile wilds.

It wasn’t until the arrival of Governor Saresh that Republic reconstruction finally took hold. Through sheer will and ambition, Saresh turned the reclamation around and established the Republic Resettlement Zone. As the heart of the reconstruction, this zone houses the tens of thousands of machines, administrators and soldiers that make the reclamation possible. Although Governor Saresh has since relinquished her post on Taris, the Republic Resettlement Zone still stands as a haven for the Republic and a sign of the rebirth to come.

Sinking City

Location: Taris (Imp)

The Sinking City is where the heart of old Taris collapsed into the world below during the bombardment. Taris’s most lively business and cultural districts have become a morass of urban decay. The ruins of Dynamet General Hospital, as well as massive building plates that once supported towering skyscrapers, provide shelter for rakghouls, pirates and scavengers. But the Sinking City promises to rise again–several attempts have been made to begin new construction in the area, and the Republic is focusing its reconstruction efforts on returning Taris to its former glory.

Transport Station Five

Location: Taris (Imp)

Before the planet’s destruction, billions of citizens visited Taris’s transport stations daily to quickly travel across the massive city world. Speeders ran on schedule and trams hauled freight and passengers safely to their destinations. As Taris’s alien population took to the Lower City, Transport Station Five was built to serve their expanding needs.

When the planet was bombarded in the Jedi Civil War, transport stations on the upper levels of Taris were incinerated and turned to rubble. Now only the ruins of Transport Station Five remain intact, a ghostly reminder of a planet once teeming with life.

Tularan Marsh

Location: Taris (Imp)

Swampland has overtaken much of the area now called the Tularan Marsh. The origin of the name is unknown–before the bombardment, the Tularan Skyway was a major thoroughfare through the industrial zone surrounding one of Taris’s primary power plants, but who or what it was named after is a piece of history lost in the rubble.

Now the area is infested with rakghouls and pirates, and only a few intrepid representatives of the Republic venture this far into the unknown, untamed wilds of Taris.

Environment of Taris

Location: Taris (Lore)

Before Darth Malak’s orbital bombardment, Taris was a dying world. Industrial pollution had irreparably damaged the oceans, and chemicals and toxins poisoned the undercity’s foundation. When the sprawling metropolis was reduced to rubble, countless pollutants were released into an already tainted ecosystem.

But this was not the end for Taris. For hundreds of years, the planet went without sentient interference, and the ecosystem began to adapt and thrive. Rich vegetation grew within the ruins, scaling steel towers and thrusting aside fallen skyscrapers. Animals–some native to the planet, some pets and lab specimens that had survived the bombardment–bred and repopulated the developing jungles.

Of course, some areas remain too polluted to inhabit–acidic lakes and radioactive sinkholes–but for the most part, Taris is an environmental success story and an object of fascination for scientists. The largest black mark remains the rakghoul plague, and the fear that it may one day spread to Taris’s animal population.

Jedi Civil War

Location: Taris (Lore)

Also known as the Second Sith War and the War of the Star Forge, the Jedi Civil War is one of the darkest eras in galactic history. Three centuries ago, a pair of idealistic young Jedi named Revan and Malak led thousands of followers into the Outer Rim to do battle with an invading Mandalorian army. The Mandalorians were defeated–and Revan and Malak returned to the Republic not as heroes, but as conquerors.

Declaring themselves Dark Lords of the Sith, Darth Revan and Darth Malak began the ruthless subjugation of Republic worlds in the Outer Rim. The Jedi Council, which had been loath to take action against the Mandalorians, assembled an army to bring the traitors to justice. Darth Revan was captured during an attack by the Jedi Knight Bastila Shan and eventually turned back to the light side. Together Revan and Bastila defeated Malak, ending the threat.

Malak’s Attack

Location: Taris (Lore)

During the Jedi Civil War, a ship carrying Bastila Shan–a Jedi with the rare and powerful battle meditation ability–was shot down by Darth Malak’s fleet over the world of Taris. Malak’s troops descended on the world in search of Bastila, but she avoided capture with the help of Revan, Malak’s redeemed former master.

Rather than permit Bastila to escape, Malak ordered his fleet to bomb Taris from orbit, devastating the entire world. The planet-wide capital city was razed and civilian casualties measured in the billions. Despite Malak’s extreme efforts, Bastila and Revan were able to safely flee the world. Taris itself, however, never recovered. Three centuries have passed, and a handful of swamp-sunken ruins are all that remains of this once great civilization.

Rakghoul Disease

Location: Taris (Lore)

Theories abound on the origins of this highly contagious and adaptable virus: it may be the creation of an ancient Sith Lord; a naturally occurring result of the industrial toxins released into Taris’s oceans; or the spectacularly failed efforts of medical researchers to artificially engineer a broad-spectrum vaccine.

Whatever the origins, the effects are undeniably terrifying. Typically spread through direct contact with rakghouls, fortunate victims suffer acute onset of flu-like symptoms that can prove fatal if not properly treated. However, in roughly half the cases the disease causes the host to undergo a horrific mutation, actually transforming them into a rakghoul.

Virtually all humanoid species in the galaxy are susceptible to infection, and there are rumors that the Empire has undertaken efforts to weaponize the disease. Unsubstantiated reports of rakghouls on worlds other than Taris lend credence to this rumor… or indicate the disease is slowly spreading across the galaxy of its own accord.

Republic Reconstruction

Location: Taris (Lore)

Although located on the Outer Rim, Taris was once a cosmopolitan cityscape said to rival Coruscant. But this shining light was snuffed out three hundred years ago by Darth Malak, who ordered his Sith fleet to bomb the planet into oblivion. In the aftermath of the attack, little remained but ruins and putrid swamps overrun by rakghouls.

Recently, the Republic has begun efforts to recolonize and restore Taris in the belief it will demonstrate a resolve and ability to overcome the destruction wrought by the Sith. Should this lost world be salvaged, it would become a symbol of hope for all those who stand against the oppression of the Empire.

The focus to date has been on cleanup, salvage and clearing sites for new colonies. Progress has been slow, and the morale of those stationed on the world is rumored to be dangerously low. But the Galactic Senate refuses to admit defeat, truly exemplifying the politicians’ can-do spirit.

Taris (Pre-bombardment)

Location: Taris (Lore)

Located in the Ojoster Sector of the Outer Rim Territories, Taris was an ecumenopolis founded at the nexus of several hyperspace trading routes. Prosperity led to a rapid population increase and the continued vertical expansion of the planet-wide urban sprawl. But with the discovery of superior trade lanes elsewhere, Taris’s economic fortunes changed.

For the wealthy nobles living in the upper floors of the towering skyscrapers, Taris remained an urban paradise. As one descended, however, the standard of living dropped precipitously. Aliens and refugees were forced to live in the city’s lower levels, supporting the upper classes both figuratively and literally. Near the surface, violent swoop gangs held sway over a terrified civilian populace beset by poverty and famine, and the sewers of the undercity were infested with rakghouls.

Ironically, many of those living in the lowest levels of Taris survived Darth Malak’s bombardment, while the rich and powerful were almost entirely wiped out.

Taris and Nonhumans

Location: Taris (Lore)

In the century preceding its destruction by Darth Malak, Taris experienced a devastating planet-wide famine among the working classes. In desperation, the poor declared war on the nobility, only to have their rebellion quickly and violently put down.

Since many of the rebellions’ leaders were nonhuman immigrants, those in power sought to quell further unrest by enacting a number of harsh anti-alien laws. Nonhumans were banned from public office and forbidden to leave the lower levels of the city without special government permits. The institutionalized segregation of nonhumans inevitably fostered an anti-alien prejudice among the human population, though many Republic historians prefer to gloss over this unsavory fact.

The Promised Ones

Location: Taris (Lore)

The Promised Ones were the descendants of a small group of outcasts who fled the undercity of Taris for a self-sustaining underground colony known as the Promised Land. There they escaped the bombardment that decimated the surface of the planet, and survived for many generations.

As the centuries passed, however, the small tribe slowly lost members to rakghouls, starvation and radiation poisoning until they eventually died out completely. As a legacy, they left behind a series of holorecordings documenting their brave struggle.

Environment of Taris

Location: Taris (Lore)

Before Darth Malak’s orbital bombardment, Taris was a dying world. Industrial pollution had irreparably damaged the oceans, and chemicals and toxins poisoned the undercity’s foundation. When the sprawling metropolis was reduced to rubble, countless pollutants were released into an already tainted ecosystem.

But this was not the end for Taris. For hundreds of years, the planet went without sentient interference, and the ecosystem began to adapt and thrive. Rich vegetation grew within the ruins, scaling steel towers and thrusting aside fallen skyscrapers. Animals–some native to the planet, some pets and lab specimens that had survived the bombardment–bred and repopulated the developing jungles.

Of course, some areas remain too polluted to inhabit–acidic lakes and radioactive sinkholes–but for the most part, Taris is an environmental success story and an object of fascination for scientists. The largest black mark remains the rakghoul plague, and the fear that it may one day spread to Taris’s animal population.

Jedi Civil War

Location: Taris (Lore)

Also known as the Second Sith War and the War of the Star Forge, the Jedi Civil War is one of the darkest eras in galactic history. Three centuries ago, a pair of idealistic young Jedi named Revan and Malak led thousands of followers into the Outer Rim to do battle with an invading Mandalorian army. The Mandalorians were defeated–and Revan and Malak returned to the Republic not as heroes, but as conquerors.

Declaring themselves Dark Lords of the Sith, Darth Revan and Darth Malak began the ruthless subjugation of Republic worlds in the Outer Rim. The Jedi Council, which had been loath to take action against the Mandalorians, assembled an army to bring the traitors to justice. Darth Revan was captured during an attack by the Jedi Knight Bastila Shan and eventually turned back to the light side. Together Revan and Bastila defeated Malak, ending the threat.

Malak’s Attack

Location: Taris (Lore)

During the Jedi Civil War, a ship carrying Bastila Shan–a Jedi with the rare and powerful battle meditation ability–was shot down by Darth Malak’s fleet over the world of Taris. Malak’s troops descended on the world in search of Bastila, but she avoided capture with the help of Revan, Malak’s redeemed former master.

Rather than permit Bastila to escape, Malak ordered his fleet to bomb Taris from orbit, devastating the entire world. The planet-wide capital city was razed and civilian casualties measured in the billions. Despite Malak’s extreme efforts, Bastila and Revan were able to safely flee the world. Taris itself, however, never recovered. Three centuries have passed, and a handful of swamp-sunken ruins are all that remains of this once great civilization.

Rakghoul Disease

Location: Taris (Lore)

Theories abound on the origins of this highly contagious and adaptable virus: it may be the creation of an ancient Sith Lord; a naturally occurring result of the industrial toxins released into Taris’s oceans; or the spectacularly failed efforts of medical researchers to artificially engineer a broad-spectrum vaccine.

Whatever the origins, the effects are undeniably terrifying. Typically spread through direct contact with rakghouls, fortunate victims suffer acute onset of flu-like symptoms that can prove fatal if not properly treated. However, in roughly half the cases the disease causes the host to undergo a horrific mutation, actually transforming them into a rakghoul.

Virtually all humanoid species in the galaxy are susceptible to infection, and there are rumors that the Empire has undertaken efforts to weaponize the disease. Unsubstantiated reports of rakghouls on worlds other than Taris lend credence to this rumor… or indicate the disease is slowly spreading across the galaxy of its own accord.

Republic Reconstruction

Location: Taris (Lore)

Although located on the Outer Rim, Taris was once a cosmopolitan cityscape said to rival Coruscant. But this shining light was snuffed out three hundred years ago by Darth Malak, who ordered his Sith fleet to bomb the planet into oblivion. In the aftermath of the attack, little remained but ruins and putrid swamps overrun by rakghouls.

Recently, the Republic has begun efforts to recolonize and restore Taris in the belief it will demonstrate a resolve and ability to overcome the destruction wrought by the Sith. Should this lost world be salvaged, it would become a symbol of hope for all those who stand against the oppression of the Empire.

The focus to date has been on cleanup, salvage and clearing sites for new colonies. Progress has been slow, and the morale of those stationed on the world is rumored to be dangerously low. But the Galactic Senate refuses to admit defeat, truly exemplifying the politicians’ can-do spirit.

Taris (Pre-bombardment)

Location: Taris (Lore)

Located in the Ojoster Sector of the Outer Rim Territories, Taris was an ecumenopolis founded at the nexus of several hyperspace trading routes. Prosperity led to a rapid population increase and the continued vertical expansion of the planet-wide urban sprawl. But with the discovery of superior trade lanes elsewhere, Taris’s economic fortunes changed.

For the wealthy nobles living in the upper floors of the towering skyscrapers, Taris remained an urban paradise. As one descended, however, the standard of living dropped precipitously. Aliens and refugees were forced to live in the city’s lower levels, supporting the upper classes both figuratively and literally. Near the surface, violent swoop gangs held sway over a terrified civilian populace beset by poverty and famine, and the sewers of the undercity were infested with rakghouls.

Ironically, many of those living in the lowest levels of Taris survived Darth Malak’s bombardment, while the rich and powerful were almost entirely wiped out.

Cathar Settlers

Location: (Organization)

One of the key elements in the Republic effort to restore Taris to its former glory is the establishment of a small Cathar colony on the planet’s surface. Coming from a homeworld ravaged by war, the Cathar species has come to symbolize the Republic’s resilience and fortitude in the face of overwhelming odds… much like Taris itself.

Officially, the colony has the full support of the Galactic Senate–yet key infrastructure is still lacking, and the settlers always seem to be low on supplies. Recently, some have questioned whether the colonization efforts began too soon, pushed forward by self-serving politicians looking to exploit the brave Cathar settlers to further their own agendas.

Pirates and Scavengers

Location: (Organization)

Valuable treasures lay buried in the ruins of Taris, attracting a wide range of individuals and groups willing to brave the dangers and claim a small piece of the fallen city’s vast wealth. Most of these can be loosely categorized as either scavengers or pirates.

Scavengers tend to stake out a small section of the ruins and generally avoid military confrontation, although they frequently ambush civilians passing through areas they have “claimed” or pillage choice sectors after a Republic cleanup crew has sorted out the debris.

In contrast, pirates are far more aggressive. Traveling in armed bands, they typically attack on sight. Some of the larger pirate bands, like the Death’s Claw, have been known to brutalize small settlements and armed patrols if they have superior numbers and position.

Morgukai

Location: (Organization)

The Morgukai are a secretive cult of Nikto warriors united by their ritual combat techniques and strong suspicion of Force-users. Renowned as Jedi-killers, the Morgukai are often courted by the Empire–frequently unsuccessfully, as the cult has a strong sense of honor and is keenly aware that the Empire views Nikto as a lesser species. In truth, many Morgukai view Sith as unfavorably as they view Jedi.

Fighting with cortosis weapons built to survive the blow of any lightsaber, Morgukai rely on a master-student relationship to train new initiates. Beyond their incredible abilities in combat, however, the philosophical teachings of the Morgukai cult are a mystery–they do not speak of their beliefs to outsiders, even under threat of death.

Pirates and Scavengers

Location: (Organization)

The former wealth of Taris is well known throughout the Outer Rim, and the planet has no shortage of eager treasure hunters looking to stake a claim. While there are those content to scavenge the ruins and sell their findings offworld, others find it easier to simply take the valuable salvage at blaster-point.

Although once at odds with the pirate and scavenger gangs, the Republic recently brought a group of these dangerous thugs into line, dragging their operations into the realm of legality and enlisting them in the reconstruction effort. With the Empire’s invasion, the gangs have had little choice but to flee the planet or become a brutal mercenary force–protecting their investment by slaughtering any Imperial troops they can trap, ambush or murder.

Tarisian Settlers

Location: (Organization)

As the Republic began its reconstruction of Taris, the planet’s hostile jungles and ruins became habitable for the first time. Offworld refugees from across the galaxy petitioned for the chance to be among Taris’s first settlers. Republic politicians eagerly publicized the humanitarian resettlement and showered the lucky colonists with gifts of aid. Although there were severe difficulties early on, the refugees eventually took root and thrived.

But the flourishing recolonization was not to last. The shadows of an Imperial fleet soon blotted out the sky, and as the sunlight faded so too did any hope for the Tarisian settlers. Thousands fled into the Republic military’s protective arms, while more pessimistic settlers abandoned Taris entirely. The Cathar and Nikto colonists, however, refused to move. Taris was their new home, and they are prepared to die defending it.

The 75th Legion

Location: (Organization)

As the personal legion of Lord Vago, the Seventy-Fifth carries out its master’s will with unflinching devotion. Each soldier serves his or her lord with a cult-like fervor, proudly marching into the deadliest of conflicts in Vago’s name. Their dedication is not undeserved; Vago has brilliantly led them into victory after victory, and treats his legionnaires as he would his own children.

Those who fail in their duty to the Seventy-Fifth and survive are removed from service. However, although many are adamant that these failures are only transferred into lesser companies, rarely are they actually seen again. Whatever punishment Vago delivers, he makes sure to keep it private and mysterious.

Rakghoul Tunnels

The Rakghoul Tunnels

While it’s clear that the rakghoul virus initially spreads across the surface of a given planet, it has been difficult to determine the point of origin because the greatest density of rakghouls is not aboveground, but rather deep underground. Researchers attempting to understand why rakghouls congregate below a given planet’s surface rather than above have developed a theory: that the subterranean tunnels in which the rakghouls gather are not found, but are actually created by the rakghouls themselves.

Careful study of the tunnels has revealed striking similarities in contour and dimension reminiscent of the natural algorithmic optimizations witnessed in the configuration of killik hives of Alderaan and in the formation of blood-ant mounds on Tatooine. Furthermore, the familiar distribution of spore sacs and unique flora suggest not only an attempt to create an environment conducive to their habitation, but also a robust fungal signature stored within the virus’s genetic code. It is the hope of THORN researchers that unlocking the key to the creation of these tunnels will also provide insight into stopping the rakghoul menace for good.

The Eyeless

The exploration of subterranean rakghoul tunnels by THORN personnel has led to many chilling revelations about rakghoul biology and behavior–none more horrifying than the gargantuan creature known as “the Eyeless”. Far larger than any rakghoul ever previously recorded, these creatures make their home near the very heart of the outbreak. Sensor probes and scouts have never found more than one such creature in each tunnel network.

No two THORN scientists can seem to agree on the role of the Eyeless in the rakghoul heirarchy. Some theorize that they are actually the source of the outbreaks, where others believe them to be a mere byproduct of the plague’s progression. Until more detailed scans are made available, definitive answers on the nature of the Eyeless will likely remain out of reach.

Rakghoul Pandemic: 1 -The Final Flight of the Stardream

Location: (Event)

Stardream Flight Log \\ Updated by Lieutenant Pursal:

Day 1. Departure from Ord Mantell was on time at 0600 hours. Passenger count is 492, excluding crew and military personnel. Captain Magnus predicts a smooth flight.

Day 5. Flight continues on schedule. Mild cases of food poisoning reported on civilian decks. The kitchen has been notified.

Day 7. The illness has spread. Patients are feverish, violent and inhumanly strong. Ship doctors ruled out food poisoning. Civilian decks One through Five have been quarantined.

Day 9. Captain Magnus has fallen ill. Doctors recommended bed rest, but he accused them of mutiny. Captain Magnus has now locked himself on the bridge and sent the Stardream off-course.

The passengers are growing violent. The crew is sick, myself included.

Day 12. The Stardream is lost in hyperspace. Infected passengers gather near the ship’s radioactive core while the crew readies to stop Captain Magnus and retake control. We will end this.

Rakghoul Pandemic: 2 – Captain Magnus

Location: (Event)

\\Communication Log of Captain Magnus\\

Amy, guess what? Daddy’s flying a ship called the Stardream. A passenger even gave me a stuffed orokeet, just for you! Tell mom to get a cage–I’ll see you in a few days.

—

Sorry I missed your call, Yllen. I’ve been sick. The doctors said it’s an allergic reaction, but they weren’t stationed on Taris. It’s been years, but I swear I recognize the symptoms. Don’t tell Amy anything.

—

were working on control, Yllen. The outbreak started on Deck two. Probably by an animal, smething from Ord Mantell that spread the disease to everyone on board. doesn’t make any sense

—

amy everyones against us. my crew turned agnst me and sed it was 4 my protecshun. no ones stealing the stardream from me!!

Rakghoul Pandemic: 3 – Outbreak on Tatooine

Location: (Event)

The paintings portray a third sun crashing into Tatooine. A great evil spills from the wreckage and spreads across the desert.

The mural shows the evil infecting banthas, duneclaws and other creatures of the desert. Then, the darkness spreads to the Sand People.

The pictures grow violent and agitated as they reveal a Sand Person tribe torn apart by infection. Scratchy images show sick Sand People, fever dreams, outbursts of violence and funeral pyres.

The final image on the mural shows the hopeful figure of a shaman who left the Sand People to find a cure.

Rakghoul Pandemic: 4 – The Sand People’s Cure

Location: (Event)

Detailed notes describe the shaman’s experiments. Rare desert plants, krayt dragon blood and ancient Sand People remedies were tested.

During his experiments, the shaman contracted the virus from his test subject–an infected bantha. He raced to beat the disease before it destroyed his mind.

The shaman finally found a cure. His antidote restored the infected bantha to health, but it failed to cure the shaman’s symptoms–the medicine only saves animals.

In the last entry, the shaman despairs over his failure to save his tribe from the mystifying plague. The remaining records descend into the scrawlings of a mad man.

Rakghoul Pandemic: 5 – Origins of the Outbreak

Location: (Event)

Note to self: Take more jobs from Doctor Lorrick. He’s well-funded and a lousy negotiator. I almost feel bad charging a fortune for smuggling one little risp hatchling aboard the Stardream.

—

Note to self: See a medic. Blasted risp bit a chunk out of my leg. Mantellian whisky eases the burn, but I’m down to my last bottle.

—

Bad time to get sick. Passengers going crazy, no ear plugs–and either I’ve got another fever dream, or the risp’s looking strange.

Rakghoul Pandemic: Defeated Infected Trapjaw

Location: (Event)

You have defeated Infected Trapjaw during the Rakghoul Pandemic event.

Rakghouls on Alderaan

Location: Alderaan (Event)

In the war for the hearts and minds of the masses, propaganda can be a powerful weapon. Since the rakghoul plague surfaced on Alderaan, theories surrounding its point of origin have spread wider and faster than the plague itself.

House Organa immediately cited the outbreak’s epicenter near King’s Pass as proof that House Thul and the Empire were conspiring to use the plague as a biological weapon, while House Thul countered that House Organa implemented the outbreak themselves so they could place the blame on their rivals to stir up sympathy. Yet another premise suggests that House Ulgo nurtured the plague in order to ratchet up hostilities between Organa and Thul and further weaken the rival houses for Ulgo’s eventual conquest.

While none of these accusations are likely to be revealed as true, one fact remains: Alderaan stands perilously close to the brink of a global rakghoul pandemic.

Rakghouls on Corellia

Location: Corellia (Event)

Life is strenuous enough in a world torn asunder by the throes of war, but when an emergency development like the rakghoul plague emerges, the citizens of Corellia have no choice but to summon up new levels of endurance and courage.

To avoid the constant threat of bombings and looters, Selonians on the outskirts of Coronet City had repositioned their den-style homes far underground, surfacing only when it became absolutely necessary to acquire provisions. In the earliest days of the plague, rakghouls seeking an ideal foundation for their distinctive tunnel networks quickly invaded the dens. Hardened by their survivalist turn, however, the Sleonians found they were enough of a match to hold the rakghouls off–though not without many heart-rending casualties along the way.

Eventually, the rakghouls found their way underground via Coronet City’s sewage system, but the Selonians who protected their dens from the growing epidemic can take some measure of satisfaction. Sometimes that’s all a survivor needs to keep hanging on.

Rakghouls on Tatooine

Location: Tatooine (Event)

The first time rakghouls threw Tatooine into pandemonium, they came from the sky, spewing out from a wrecked ship called the Stardream. After the epidemic was believed to be contained, no one thought to check below the dunes of the desert planet for signs of the diseased beasts.

When a seasoned clan of Jawa scavengers stripping the Stardream’s interior for parts found a hull breach, they uncovered a network of rakghoul-infested tunnels deep underground. Cobbling spare parts into traps, the clan methodically captured and exterminated every remaining rakghoul and then used detonate charges to collapse the tunnels.

Since that day, the clan have made the Stardream’s husk into their home, seeing it as their solemn duty to keep watch over the hull breach, ever wary the rakghoul plague might return. Not having anticipated an entirely new infestation to rise up elsewhere in the Dune Sea, they are quite relieved for THORN’s intervention and are more than content to let the organization’s aid workers deal with the problem this time.

Evolved Rakghoul Plague

Location: (Lore)

The origins of the rakghoul plague are shrouded in mystery–a biochemical accident, perhaps, or a terrible Sith creation–but the plague itself has been relatively stable for centuries, affecting only humanoid species and a handful of animals confined to Taris. Tarisian biologists have suggested that the planet’s bombardment kept the plague’s development in check by reducing the planet’s industrial pollution and the number of indigenous species.

Removed from that limiting environment and prodded along by the twisted expertise of Doctor Sannus Lorrick, an entirely new strain of the rakghoul plague has developed. A huge variety of non-humanoid creatures are now susceptible to infection, and humanoids who acquire the disease no longer lose their full intelligence–just their free will, becoming slaves to Lorrick’s every command.

Rakghoul Propagation

Location: (Lore)

It has long been thought that the only way for the rakghoul virus to spread was by turning other beings into rakghouls through infection, but close studies of underground rakghoul habitats now point to a more complicated and unsettling reality: that rakghouls can propagate without the need for turning.

Located deep below the surface of infected planets, small rakghouls have been found roaming together in packs. These “raklings” appear to have been formed from luminescent spore sacs strung along the rakghoul tunnels, though it is not yet clear to biologists how this process works. They have learned, however, that the raklings are attracted to a particular pheromone emitted from certain flora found within the tunnels. Researchers have long wished to use this pheromone to lure raklings into captivity, but strict antiviral protocols enacted by THORN do not allow these proto-rakghouls to be taken aboveground. Until they can be tested in a proper laboratory setting, the truth of how rakghouls self-multiply may not be fully understood.

The Spike

Location: (Lore)

When a mining crew drilled into what they had thought was a prothium gas pocket, the first underground network of rakghoul tunnels was discovered. Since then, direct routes have not been found into these densely populated tunnels that happen to correspond with rakghoul outbreaks. To access such networks in an efficient and timely manner, THORN founder Addalar Hyland introduced The Spike: a massive, cylindrical pulse hammer that quickly displaces soil and rock to form a temporary turbolift shaft leading directly into the rakghouls’ subterranean lairs.

Originally developed by Galactic Solutions Industries to fire troop deployments deep into sub-crustal enemy bunkers, the effects of The Spike’s ground-busting payload were deemed too violent for those within to survive the turbulence, making the costly apparatus less than desirable to prospective buyers. In its new role as a facilitator between rakghouls and those who wish to dispose of them, The Spike has found great success.

THORN

Location: (Organization)

Whenever an outbreak of the rakghoul virus surfaces anywhere in the galaxy, one of the first distress calls is made to The Hyland Organization for Rakghoul Neutralization (THORN). With its vast resources and singular mission–the permanent eradication of the rakghoul threat–THORN is a planet’s best chance of avoiding a global pandemic.

To most citizens of the galaxy, this philanthropic organization created by entrepreneur Addalar Hyland is a welcome force for good. Few, however, are aware of the reason for Hyland’s support of THORN as opposed to any other charitable cause. While he would never discuss it in public, it is a matter of record that Hyland lost two of his children to an outbreak of the rakghoul plague on Tatooine. Ever since that fateful day, he has diverted a great deal of his wealth earned from Galactic Solutions Industries to personally finance THORN.