Re: Klingon Question.

The true story of the noted "change" in Klingon features is an embarrassing one few Klingons like to talk about. It goes way back in time to the founding of the Klingon empire. As the Klingons expanded their empire numerous worlds inhabited by other humanoid species were conquered and assimilated into the empire. Initially treated as slaves, these "lessor" species finally achieved a number of rights in a famous slave rebellion, among these was full citizenship in the Klingon empire. While technically "Klingon" ie:citizens of the Klingon empire, these lessor species as well as those with "less than pure" Klingon bloodlines remain to some extent second class citizens. Their roles in society are somewhat limited and they are essentially excluded from the most honorable and desirable positions in society--service in the military as "warriors". This is primarily due to an unspoken but well understood rule of Klingon society that a "pure blood" Klingon would NEVER take orders from Klingon with a less pure bloodline (not to mention the many "Klingons" who actually have no Klingon blood at all). This is based on the Klingons mentality that as "conquerors" they are entitled to rule over the "conquered". Of course, a "lessor Klingon" can command over other "lessor Klingons" (especially if they have less Klingon blood), and many do serve in these lesser support roles which include those unpleasant non-warlike pursuits such as exploration and (initially but now less so) diplomatic and trade missions that involve dealing (in a non-hostile manner) with other worthless species. Thus it is not suprising that initial contact with the Klingons was with these "lessor" Klingons. With advances in cosmetic surgery, it has become increasing popular for ambitious "lessor Klingons" to have their appearances altered to make them more acceptable in polite society as well as perhaps advance their careers. This has been met with at best mixed results. Despite their adoption of Klingon customs, speech and now appearance, they are still considered something less than true Klingon. No "lessor Klingon" will ever rule a great house let alone serve on the council. Interspecies breeding among Imperial Klingons of the great houses (while more frequent than most would admit) is generally frowned upon and offspring of these indiscretions typically disinherited and denied their birthright. Worf's son Alexander is currently unaware of this bit of Klingon history (Klingons are generally loath to discuss it) but will soon find that there are certain unspoken barriers to advancement for him. He will be gently encouraged to switch to the serving with the supply fleet, research or perhaps with the exploration fleet where their are "more opportunities for advancement for your kind". Worf will find it difficult to explain why Alexander should not be expected to be treated equal to other Klingons and should "be honored to be 3/4 Klingon"-- "That is the way it has always been" (much of Worf's difficulty in accepting Alexander as his son was related to his impure blood lines--of course he would never admit it). Alexander may choose to join a rebellion in progress on one of the worlds in the Klingon empire (a suicidal proposition if there ever was one). These rebels foolishly believe that either the strength or will of the Klingon empire might have been shaken by the recent wars and are seeking independence and/or equality for all klingon citizens. Of course, the results will likely be tragic. So anyway, that is why all Klingons don't have ridges--and why some Klingons have gained ridges when they initially didn't.