The Mephitisians were a sentient species with four arms originating from the planet called Mephitis. The atmosphere of their homeworld was toxic, leading to evolutionary adaptations like eyelid coverings for their eyes and the absence of a nose to minimize exposure to harmful gases.
Mosh Pelkan, a Mephitisian, rose to power on the planet Questal as a Turf Boss, which meant he was a criminal kingpin with unofficial power. He threw a party for the birthday of Imperial Moff Bandor, during which Rebel Alliance operatives managed to sneak in.
The species known as Mephitisians were sentient, possessing skin with a purple hue and four arms capable of independent movement. Their evolution took place on a world filled with unpleasant odors, resulting in specific adaptations. Mephitisians lacked noses, rendering them unable to smell, and their small, black eyes were shielded by transparent lids. To further reduce air exposure, they had prominent upper lips which they could flap over their mouths. Protruding from their heads were two horn-like structures that were sensitive to vibrations and air currents. These beings were known for their dexterity.
The Mephitisians' origins trace back to the planet Mephitis, situated in the southwestern region of the Colonies. The atmosphere of their homeworld was notorious for its noxious nature, causing discomfort to visiting species. Since the era of the Galactic Civil War, the Mephitisians have been integrated within the galactic community.
On the planet Questal, the Mephitisian named Mosh Pelkan held the position of a Turf Boss. These Turf Bosses were essentially criminal leaders who maintained agreements with the official District Commanders. In exchange for suppressing insurgencies, the Commanders would overlook their illicit activities. Pelkan initially arrived on the planet with the intention of mining ardanium, but he quickly discovered that importing contraband yielded greater profits. He built a substantial power base and garnered popularity in Gralleenya, the capital city of Questal. Upon assuming authority over Questal, Imperial Moff Bandor granted Pelkan control over a district within Gralleenya.
To commemorate Bandor's birthday, Pelkan hosted a costume ball at his mansion. During the event, agents from the Alliance to Restore the Republic infiltrated the party, seeking information about the missing agent Tiree. Acting on advice from Tan Shilley, a local bar owner who had previously suggested Tiree contact Pelkan, the Rebels believed Pelkan possessed knowledge of Tiree's whereabouts. Gladiatorial contests were offered as entertainment at Pelkan's celebration.
Despite their best efforts, the Rebel agents failed to extract any valuable intelligence from Pelkan. Instead, they were compelled to engage in combat against his champion, Cromag, in the arena. After defeating Cromag, they managed to escape the party and eventually rescued Tiree from his confinement within Bandor's Palace.
The Mephitisians were conceived by Robert Kern for the roleplaying adventure titled The Game Chambers of Questal, which was published by West End Games as a standalone paperback in 1990 and later included in the collection Classic Adventures: Volume Five in 1995. In the scenario involving the Mephitisian Mosh Pelkan, there are five potential reasons that could lead to the players fighting Cromag. Whether it's one of these reasons or a new one, the fight is an integral part of the adventure.
In Roman mythology, Mefitas was a deity associated with poisonous fumes emanating from swampy ground. The names of the Mephitisians and their homeworld bear resemblance to this goddess, and they share characteristics due to the planet's toxic atmosphere.