"The age of prophecy is not dead," explained one follower, who refused to be named. "People watch the sky. They see ships. They turn to the legacy and they know what they know."

Mordana sect members call themselves "believers" and follow the teachings of Mordane, a discredited last age prophet. In addition, Mordana followers covet the compound mordanite, a naturally occurring mineral often found in certain sectors of Jenquai space. Mordanite is typically purported to convey a sense of unity and purpose to even the most barren styles of existence.

"It is the true gift," said one follower. "Mordanite is the source, the touchstone, and the Way."

Like most mordanite traders, she claimed to enjoy wholeness and fulfillment at a deep personal level.

In contrast, those seeking enlightenment through the long and arduous path of the Sha'ha'dem have obtained mixed results. Many experience a questioning of their faith in themselves and in their role in the outerworlds. More than a few Sha'ha'dem may experience personal crises of identity. "Indeed. These are times of uncertainty and the Path is demanding," admits Emissary Merjan. "Unfortunately, there are no easy routes to wisdom."

In the past, the phenomenal craze for mordanite has caused conflict among the Jenquai and, during certain periods, has even produced violence. The Mordana's resurgence during a period of invasion may be one more reason Jenquai leaders will attempt to bring the sect to an end.

"A ban is not leadership," said one Mordana halek, speaking under a guarantee of anonymity. "These ignorant restrictions are merely prejudice. The Jenquarum does not want to preserve the peace. They want to monopolize the wisdom of the Book and the learning of the Ancients."

Meanwhile, there is talk of a new task force at Paren Station, as well as a special psychiatric front mobilized to combat deviant religions. Called the United Jenquai Action for Mental and Psychic Freedom, the group seeks a prominent Sha'ha'dem for its leader. The group's bylaws also cite the code of the Capella explorer faction which dictates complete neutrality in all matters of religion.