other language in the world. A particular word or phrase might use various languages' versions of it to imply subtext. An example would be the word "Yes" — the English "Yes" is used for simple confirmation, the French "Oui" is used to imply apathy or boredom, the Russian "Da" is used for dejected acceptance of the inevitable, and the Japanese "Hai" is selected for enthusiastic agreement. Economy Al Amarja uses the American Dollar as its standard currency. In fact the American government prints up batches of their currency explicitly for their internal use. However, the coins and bills have Her Exaltedness' face on all the denominations and use 'Marjian landmarks on the obverse side. Al Amarja gets its income from various sources — decadent tourists, private donations and investments, legal and illicit business, smuggled ivory and other forbidden animal products, lecherous sailors, expense accounts of various operatives and pirated products. Businesses like the lack of any copyright and trademark laws, absence of safety regulations, and easily bribed law enforcement. Laws Guns, explosives and bulletproof vests are illegal. Only the Peace Force, the island's heavily armed law enforcement agency, can carry guns and they enforce this law very vigorously. Drug laws are similar to those in Europe and United States but enforced only sporadically. Otherwise the police and government lets everybody do whatever they want unless it threatens the state or they have something to gain in stopping it. Population The mixed history of the island means that locals look like a mix of various racial characteristics. The current population of Al Amarja has also been increased by a mix of Mediterranean, European, North American and some Asian and Sub-Saharan African immigrants. They also include mutants, maniacs, outlawed psychics, magicians, intelligence and conspiracy operatives, fringe scientists, unscrupulous businessmen, rich patrons and anything else. There are no accurate census numbers. Al Amarjans – also known as 'Marjans – are rough people. Self-expression is common to the point of self-indulgence. Instead of neckties, they wear a noose around their neck; nooses previously used to hang criminals are very prized. Knives and steel-reinforced boots are universal accessories. Street and bar brawls are common entertainment. Because of the common mutual hostility and suspicion, it is a custom to serve beverages and snacks in their original containers. Al Amarjans practice just about any religion from Christian Science to human sacrifice. They include Satanists and "Sommerites", religiously