Zimzum

One of the few remaining independent ethnicities in the Mikhail Subsector Galactica .
The Zimzum is an ethnicity within the Galactica Subsector that has managed to retain a distinct cultural identity despite being under the influence of the Galactic Corporate Empire (GCE) for nearly two centuries. While the GCE seeks to assimilate client states into its cultural and political framework, the Zimzum people have resisted this assimilation and maintained their sense of identity.
The exact origins of the Zimzum people are not well-documented, but it is believed that they were indigenous to the planet Habbitzum before the GCE's expansion. As one of the last planets in the Galactica Subsector to be subsumed into the client state network of the GCE, the Zimzum people have had fewer interactions and experiences with the empire compared to other cultures in Galactica. This has likely contributed to the preservation of their unique cultural practices, beliefs, and traditions.
The Zimzum people's ability to maintain their identity can be seen as somewhat ironic, considering their cultural heritage was influenced and shaped by external factors. It is possible that the Zimzum people themselves were once a mixture of various ethnicities, making their cultural identity a product of assimilation and borrowing from different sources. Over time, however, the Zimzum people have developed their own distinct cultural practices and traditions, setting them apart from the GCE and other cultures in the region.
The Zimzum may have their own distinct language, art forms, religious beliefs, and societal customs that have evolved independently of the GCE's influence. Their cultural practices might be deeply rooted in local traditions, folklore, and a close connection to the natural environment of Habbitzum.
Due to their resistance to assimilation, the Zimzum people may also have developed a strong sense of community and collective identity. They may have organized themselves into clans or tribes, each with its own customs and social structures that contribute to their overall sense of identity.
The preservation of their cultural identity may have resulted in a continued sense of pride and the desire to maintain their cultural heritage against outside influences. This steadfastness could lead to conflicts with entities like the Habbitzum Healthy Development Corporation (HHDC), which serves as a representative of the GCE's interests on Habbitzum.
Overall, the Zimzum people represent an ethnic group in the Galactica Subsector that has managed to resist assimilation and maintain a distinct cultural identity despite being under the influence of the GCE for a significant period. Their resistance to external

Culture

Average technological level

TL-1 (roughly Bronze Age currently at TL-8 (roughly modern Earth) due to GCE influence

Common Taboos

Eating Zaddams.

Common Myths and Legends

Once upon a time, in the enchanting world of Habbitzum, there lived a wise and courageous Zimzum warrior named Akhur. He was known far and wide for his bravery and skill in hunting the majestic and powerful creatures called Zaddams. These creatures were wild and untamed, symbolizing strength and power in the Zimzum culture.
One quiet evening, as the stars sparkled in the dark sky, Akhur's grandchildren, Nora and Dora, snuggled close to their beloved grandfather. It was their favorite time of the day, as the old grandfather would weave fascinating tales of their ancestors and the ancient myths that shaped their people's history.
With a gentle smile, Grandfather began to share the tale of "The First Zaddamite Rider." He spoke in a voice that seemed to carry the weight of the ages, captivating Nora and Dora's young hearts.
"Long ago, in a time when the Zimzum people were still discovering their place in the world, the great warrior Akhur embarked on a perilous journey," Grandfather began. "He had heard whispers of the Zaddams, mysterious creatures possessing immense power and grace."
As Grandfather's voice softened, Nora and Dora's imaginations took flight. They could almost see the vast landscapes of Habbitzum stretching before them, with mighty Zaddams roaming freely.
"Akhur ventured deep into the untamed wilderness, armed with nothing but his knowledge and determination," Grandfather continued. "Days turned into nights, and nights into days, as he patiently observed these majestic creatures from a distance."
Nora and Dora listened in awe, their eyes bright with excitement and wonderment. They longed to witness a Zaddam with their own eyes and feel the thrill of the hunt, just like their brave ancestor.
"One fateful day, Akhur's patience paid off," Grandfather whispered. "He spotted a particularly magnificent Zaddam, its golden fur shimmering under the sun's warm rays. With his heart beating wildly, he carefully approached the creature, his movements as gentle as a breeze."
As the story unfolded, Nora and Dora found themselves holding their breath, captivated by Akhur's bravery and determination. They could almost feel the excitement and anticipation coursing through their veins.
"After an intense struggle, Akhur managed to capture the Zaddam," Grandfather continued, his voice filled with both pride and admiration. "He looked into the wild creature's eyes and saw a spirit as fierce and unyielding as his own. Instead of feeling fear, Akhur felt a deep sense of respect for the creature, an understanding that transcended the simple need for survival."
"In that moment, Akhur decided to not just capture, but to form a bond with the Zaddam. Using his deep understanding of the wild and his innate courage, he slowly approached the Zaddam. He reached out his hand and touched the beast’s fur, his heart pounding in his chest."
Silence filled the air as Grandfather paused, his eyes gleaming with the reflected light of a memory. "It was a pivotal moment in our history. For it was then that Akhur became the first Zaddamite Rider."
"The majestic beast bowed its head, accepting the warrior as his rider," Grandfather continued, his voice filled with reverence. "Together, they forged a bond that was stronger than any weapon, a bond built on respect and mutual understanding."
As the story ended, Nora and Dora sat in silence, their young hearts pounding with excitement. The image of their brave ancestor, riding a golden Zaddam under the bright sun, was etched deeply into their minds. They felt a profound connection to their heritage and a newfound admiration for the courageous Zimzum warrior, Akhur.
From that day forward, Nora and Dora promised each other that they too would become Zaddamite Riders, like their ancestor. They longed to experience the bond that Akhur had described, a bond of mutual respect and understanding with a creature as majestic and powerful as a Zaddam.
So began their journey, inspired by the tales of their Grandfather and driven by the courage of their ancestor. From that day, they trained and studied, preparing themselves for the day when they would meet their own Zaddam and continue the legacy of the Zimzum people.
That story of the first Zaddamite Rider, as narrated by their Grandfather, was the spark that ignited the dreams of Nora and Dora. From then on, their lives were forever intertwined with the ancient traditions of their people, and the magnificent creatures known as Zaddams. And so, they too became legends in their own right, living proof of the power of a story and the enduring spirit of the Zimzum people.

Historical figures

Akhur, the first Zaddamite Rider

Encompassed species

• Zaddam