Pocket Settings

I Am Human

System: Signature 3.11.1
Version: 1.0
Tone Bonus: Heroism. Any selfless action nets a bonus of +1 to +3
Realism: Realistic (0 Wild Points spendable at a time/0 Wild Points to start)


The Setting

Introduction
Player Direction
Centralization
Sample Character Goals
Tech Level
Plot Hooks
Sample Signatures


Introduction


In I Am Human, Neanderthals never go extinct, but live side by side with modern humans, as second-class citizens called "Schmoes."

Strict segregation is enforced in the United States. Restrooms and other public places have signs saying "Humans only" and "Schmoes only."

Nevertheless, Schmoe culture flourishes. There are underground clubs of Schmoes playing flutes, bullroarers, and drums. Schmoe jewelry is quite beautiful to the Human eye.

Other parts of the world have greater or lesser segregation. The Caribbean, Africa and U.S.S.R are remarkably egalitarian, but Europe and Latina America are even more bigoted than the U.S, owing to the Roman oppression of Schomoe as slaves.

Now, Schmoes are restless. From the times of earliest history to the modern day, they have been oppressed by others. And they wonder how long it will be before they can say to themselves — and to their children — "I am human."


Player Direction


PCs are caught up in the racial strife between Schmoes and Humans. They must pick sides and deal with the consequences.


Centralization


The characters have gathered together as part of a anti-segregation (or if you wish, pro-segregation) group. They try to raise funds, hold meetings, protest, gather new members, etc. all for their cause.


Sample Character Goals


Racial Equality: The character wants Humans and Schmoes to have equal rights, and for segregation to end.

Racial Revolution: The character wants to set up an all-Schmoe or all-Human separatist state.

Genetic Proof: The character believes that Schmoes and Humans are basically the same genetically, and wants to prove it.

The Grass is Greener: The character is fascinated by the culture of the opposite race, and wants to learn all she can about it, immerse herself in it, etc.


Tech Level


The tech level of I Am Human is that of Earth in the Sixties and Seventies. There are no computers as exist today; no VCRs, videos, CDs, or DVDs. However, cars are plentiful, as is gas. Human beings have just visited the moon.


Plot Hooks


Can't We All Just Get Along?: A Schmoe has been viciously beaten by several Human policemen. Now, those policemen are on trial. But the PCs suspect the judge and/or jury may be corrupt. What will they do?

The Election: A new canidate for governor in the PC's state is running on a pro-segregation platform. Will the PCs try to set up an opposing, anti-segregation candidate? Or perhaps, will they just try to get rid of the pro-segregation candidate?

Interracial Romance: A Schmoe man and a Human woman have fallen in love. The local community is up in arms. What will the PCs do?


Sample Signatures


Schmoe Signatures

Laborer: Laborers do thankless jobs for minimum wage. They are typically stronger than average Schmoe, and have better endurance as well. However, they are less tolerant of Humans.

Garbageman: Garbagemen are the lowest of the low. They have inadequate wages and work long hours in the worst conditions. They are typically very angry at Humans.

Athlete: Athletes are Schmoes who excell at sports using brute force. They are typically well-off for Schmoes, and are liked — to a degree — by Humans. However, some Schmoes consider them "race traitors."

Soldier (Grunt): Schmoe soldiers get dangerous, front-line assignments with basic projectile weapons. They are chosen for their loyal to Human officers. Schmoe soldiers typically have a sidearm, even if retired, and are trained to fight as individuals and under the command of a Human officer.

Artist: Artists are typically poor, banning exceptional talent, but are often well-regarded by both Schmoes and Humans. They are also well-trained at their particular art (fine arts, music, dance, etc.) and creative.

Human Signatures

Soldier (Officer): Human officers are chosen to direct units of Schmoe soldiers. They are typically well-liked by Schmoes. In addition to basic military training, they know basic tactics and can lead others on and off the battlefield. They also receive a college-level education.

Doctor: Doctors treat the sick and injured. They are highly educated and can treat both Schmoe and Humans, though typically one are better at one or the other race. They are typically rich, but work long hours and are always "on call" for an emergency.

Lawyer: Lawyers try cases for the legal system. They are typically well-off and excellent debaters and leaders.

Scientist: Scientists learn and study the various scientists. They recieve middle-income pay.

Artist: Artists are typically poor, banning exceptional talent, but are often well-regarded by both Schmoes and Humans. They are also well-trained at their particular art (fine arts, music, dance, etc.) and creative.