The Animo were unusual in that they were not conquered by the Imperium; they joined
willingly. They encountered the Imperium soon after it took that title. The Animo, at the time,
were industrialized, but in no condition to resist the might of the Imperium. Using their
telepathic abilities, the Animo rulers were able to contact the Imperium forces and convince
them to allow the Animo to join as equal partners. While the humans and Aron were skeptical
of the telepathic Animo, the Animo allayed their fears and were soon accepted as part of the
Imperium. However, the Animo were soon shocked by the ferocity of the Stellar Guard,
especially the Aron troops. Since then, most Animo have avoided the Guard. However, it is not
uncommon for young Animo to express rebellion by joining the Guard and seeking excitement
and adventure. Older Animo shake their heads, wait for the youngsters to see their full share of
blood and death, and then continue trying to be the conscience of the Imperium. It's a thankless
job, but the Animo realize that it needs to be done, and no other race is doing it.
Racial Advantages: Telepathy 3 (15), Telereceive at IQ (4), Empathy
at IQ (4), Telesend at IQ (4), Mind Block at IQ (4), Strong Will 1 (4),
Racial Disadvantages: Pacifism (cannot kill) (-15)
Suggested Advantages: Additional psionic powers are very appropriate, as are mental abilities such as Eidetic Memory, Mathematical Ability or Lightning Calculator.
Suggested Disadvantages: Animo in the Stellar Guard often buy off the racial Pacifism with Glory Hound or Overconfidence and Chummy. Combat Paralysis or higher levels of Pacifism are also appropriate.
Alliances and Allies: The Animo are one of the races that holds the Stellar Imperium together. They oppose the efforts of the Aron to make the Imperium more restrictive and aggressive, and argue against aggressive actions by all parties. They often act as the conscience of the Imperium, which endears them to few.