Gashant Herds of Mars

Gashant Riders of the Boreal Cities

As you can see, we have confirmation that some Martians have domesticated and appear to be riding these strange, bird-like creatures. They lack feathers, and have, in fact, a rather leathery grey-ish hide. Their legs are digitigrade, they are warm-blooded, oviparous and beaked all similar to a terrestrial bird's . They lack wings, and have only small, club-like forelimbs, which are perhaps atrophied wings. Earth zoologists have tentatively classified them as reptiles, but have not completed a taxonomic report on the species.

The domesticated beasts seem to be used more in the newly-explored Boreal region of Mars, where they seem quite common. Pictured above in the photostat is a patrol rider of the city of Borea Major. The patrol our explorers encountered were quite restrained, obviously impressed with our advanced British technologies. It is hoped that our Viceroy will swiftly send a diplomatic mission to the Boreal Cities and enact treaties which will permit an exclusive trade between these advanced Martian societies and ourselves.

[Editor's Note: If you are a reader of TMP, you should know that RAFM (www.rafm.com), the Canadian company responsible for the production of the official Space 1889 miniatures, is currently selling them at 50% off for infantry and cavalry. Act quickly, folks! I know I will be ordering some cavalry units.]