Post by Tokrochiru on Mar 21, 2014 6:26:38 GMT -5
If diversity is the spice of life, then the White Pearl is one hot bowl of gumbo. There are all sorts of alien species, including (but not limited to) the ones listed below....
Julahn (plural: Julahni): One of the most expansive and influential species in the galaxy, the Julahni (or gem-men as some people like to call them) take great pride in their accomplishments. They are the original founders of the Kerjal Empire, which currently has dominion over more than a third of the galaxy's explored territory. Within the confines of their own culture, they are typically practical, intelligent, ambitious, and dutiful.
Julahni originally hail from the planet Jul, which is known to have starry skies both at night and during the day. Many centuries ago, the Julahni were bound to this planet. This all changed when they developed FTL technology however, and since then, they have done extraordinarily well to prove to the rest of the galaxy that there is no limit to what they can accomplish.
The Julahni's ambition is a double edged sword. On one hand, their zealousness is a trait that has helped them thrive on a galactic scale. On the other hand, they have also developed a sour reputation for not letting anyone get in their way. The Kerjal Empire, much like the Julahni themselves, believe that what's best for them is best for everyone. It's not that they necessarily view themselves as a superior race so much as they believe that their model of government is so efficient that it would be wrong not to include everyone they can. Considering how prosperous many of the worlds under their rule are, there is legitimate cause to believe that this may be the case.
Physically, Julahni are clearly humanoid. Their skin, eye and hair coloration extends to all colors that can be associated with various types of jewelry. The most common Juhlani skin tone, for example, is a deep green (emerald), while the most common hair color is a bright blue (sapphire). The "whites" of a Juhlani's eyes are always the same color as his or her pupils. Juhlani also typically have long, pointed ears. However, there are a few ethnic subtypes that have small, round ears instead.
Fetar (plural: Fetari): Another humanoid species, like the Julahni, but with distinct bird-like traits. Fetari society is currently suffering from the greatest economic depression of its entire written history, and the planets that they have dominion over are quickly becoming overpopulated. In spite of this, they maintain a state of independence, refusing to be shackled by the regulations of some grand empire or federation.
In truth, even if the Fetar did pick a side, it would likely end badly for them. Their homeworld is sandwiched right between a place where the Kerjal Empire and the of Hortoh Dominion meet. Siding with one faction will inevitably involve them in the cold, but tense turf war that Thiria and Kerjal are engaged in.
The Fetari value family highly. Unfortunately, malnutrition and starvation has claimed the lives of so many parents, forcing orphaned children to form families of their own by banding together in large groups. These groups are known as 'orphan flocks,' and are looked upon with both admiration and pity by those who were fortunate enough to be raised by living, caring parents.
All Fetari have a mixture of feathers and flesh in various places on their bodies, including on their chests, forearms, forelegs, and shoulders. The color of a Fetar's feathers is usually, but not always, the same color as the hair on his or her head. They generally have the skin tones that range from dark brown to almost completely white, with various subtle shades of red and olive mixed in. Their feathers, hair and eyes, however, can be just about any color, or even multicolored. A Fetar's feather's feathers are usually, but not always, the same color as his or her hair.
In place of hands and feet, they have sharp talons, with five claws on each one. The talons at the end of their legs have four claws in front, and one in back.
Most notable of all their physical features are the wings on their backs. These strong, powerful wings grant Fetari flight on most hospitable worlds. The gas bags that are located right next to their lungs also help them stay afloat in the air. Unfortunately, this also makes them somewhat lightweight compared to species of similar size.
Arkhan (plural: Arkhans): The Arkhans are an arachnoid-humanoid cross-species that value community above all else, and are the primary inhabitants of the Naranthian Monarchy. Many other species consider them to be strange and unusual, both physically and behaviorally, but they are by no means a hostile people. In fact, the Arkhans are one of the more naturally benevolent and helpful beings in the galaxy.
The appearance of an Arkhan heavily depends on where it is born, due to their incredibly diverse genetic adaptability. Arkhans born on Naranthia (the Arkhan homeworld) resemble giant spiders, with hands at the end of their frontmost legs, 6 fangs, and long, drooping fur on the top of their heads. Those that are born a fair distance away from their homeworld have drider-like bodies, with a humanoid torso, head, and arms, but a spider's legs and abdomen. Arkhans born on the rim of Monarchy are the most humanoid, with their only arachnoid traits being bits of furry exoskeleton covering their bodies in various places, and sometimes several eyes. Typical colorings for Arkhan exoskeletons are black, white, and brown. Common skin colors include white, brown, olive and gray.
The Naranthian Monarchy is a welcoming interstellar nation with a thriving market. They manage to remain neutral with the other factions by allowing open trade to all, so long as they agree to follow the Ithirn. The Ithirn is a set of laws that are to upheld at all costs when conducting trade. Breaking the laws of the Ithirn is a serious crime regardless of the lawbreaker's species or allegiance.
Naranthian space ism without a doubt, one of the most well defended areas in the galaxy. The Kerjal Empire has attempted to conquer the region in order to gain free access to the region's famously abundant resources. Their efforts proved to be startlingly difficult and cost inefficient, which forced the Empire to officially request a truce. A peace treaty was signed in the hopes that the two nations would not go to war again in the foreseeable future.
In spite of the Arkhan's impressive ability to adapt to foreign environments quickly, the Naranthian government is strongly opposed to further interstellar expansion. This isn't because the Arkhans are xenophobic, but because they believe there is simply no need to expand beyond their current borders. Regardless, this does not prevent certain renegades from exploring of their own volition. These small, rogue factions of Arkhan explorers, while not technically criminals, are treated as outcasts by their less adventurous brethren.
Snyvrn (plural Snyvrns): The Snyvrns are certainly one of the more mysterious races to travel the galaxy. The crafty, inventive bat-people live nomadic lives. They have no homeworld to speak of, and prefer to spend their lives on starships or space colonies rather than on the surfaces of planets. They are also the oldest known sapient species in the galaxy.
Physically, the Snyvrns are naturally weak and lanky. They have flat, whiskery faces with sharp teeth and fangs. Their fur-covered bodies are thin, but limber. Instead of hair, Snyvrns have stringy manes that often reach down to their shoulders. Their fur can be either be of a single color, patterned, or mottled. Generally, they have thin red, black or white eyes. Like the Fetari, the Snyvrns have wings. However, their folded, leathery flaps are far better suited for gliding than for actual flight.
Cybernetics are quite popular and common amongst the species. In fact, it is significantly less likely to find an unaugmented Snyvrn than it is to find a mechanically altered one. Amongst Snyvrns, those who are not enhanced with cybernetics are stigmatized for their weakness. There are sects that oppose artificial enhancements of this type, but they are very small and well hidden amongst the droves of cyborg Snyvrns that populate the galaxy.
In spite of their large population, Snyvrns have not formed any significant, centralized governments in several millennia. There are thousands upon thousands of Snyvrn factions across the galaxy, which are referred to as 'clans'. Most clans are descended from heroes or important figures that once lived on their lost homeworld of Gilchai. Unfortunately, Gilchai's location, as well as why it was abandoned, is something that no two clans can seem to agree on. The written history of each of the Snyvrn clans highly contradict each other, making it all but impossible to determine where their true origins lie.
It is often said that "nothing the Snyvrns have belong to them. It's all been given to them by someone else." To an extent, this is true, since they advance by taking lost or abandoned scraps of what other species and factions have left behind. However, by adding their own unique insight to these bits of technology, they often end up improving upon the original designs. Because of this, the Snyvrns have actually become one of the most technologically advanced races in the galaxy. This is quite remarkable considering how disorganized they are as a whole.
Carapor (plural: Carapors): These tall, imposing, bipedal crustaceans are among the most ancient space-faring species in the galaxy. They are the founders of the Hortoh Dominion, which is the second largest superpower in the known galaxy, outsized only by the Kerjal Empire.
Most Carapors stand at an even 9 feet tall, and are covered almost entirely in a thick metal-infused exoskeleton that is roughly as hard and sturdy as steel plating. They possess two arms, two legs, and no head. At the end of each limb are 8 digits: 6 fingers/toes and 2 thumbs. The Carapors' 7 small, beady eyes are located near the top of the torso, poking out several little holes in the plating. If irritated or harmed, these eyes can temporarily retreat back into the exoskeleton until the Carapor in question is comfortable, or the eye is fully healed. The shape and color of the exoskeleton is entirely dependent on ethnicity. While Carapors have no mouths, they do have an organ that allows them to hum in a bass-heavy, low-pitched tone.
By spacing silence in-between hums, the Carapors have created several languages that are functionally similar to morse code. Unfortunately, due to the fact that they lack the organs needed to speak alien languages, they require the assistance of electronic equipment in order to properly communicate with other species.
The Carapors have been sailing the stars for longer than almost any other species. The only known known exception are the Snyverns. Unlike the Snyverns, however, the Carapors are unified, and possess historical records that are unanimously agreed to be at least mostly accurate.
Nashri (plural: Nashri): The Nashri have no recorded history. They have no gods other than the ones that are given. They are only permitted the bare minimum of knowledge required to adequately serve their masters in the Hortoh Dominion. Bred to fight and die on the battlefield, these large, muscular canines are feared throughout the galaxy as savage, ferocious killing machines.
The Nashri highly resemble hyenas, but also possess some bear and gorilla-like features. They exhibit traits of bipedalism, possessing two aft legs and two forward arms, but prefer to move around on four limbs. While standing, they have an average height of 10'2", and while on all fours, they have an average height of 6'11". They possess long, canine muzzles, large mouths, sharp teeth, pointy ears, and glowing eyes. The fur covering their bodies is somewhat thin compared to other canine species, allowing their powerful muscles to be seen even through their coats. Most Nashri have a single, jagged horn on the top of the head. Nashri have manes that stretch from the tops of their head to the midway point down their backs, but their general appearance changes depending on gender. Male Nashri have stiff, straight manes that spike upward, often giving them a mohawk-like style. Females manes are losee and reminiscent of horses, tending to droop down over one side of the body. Fur and mane colors, spots, stripes, and other markings can vary depending on the breed of the Nashri.
While sapient, the Nashri are bred like animals, and treated no differently. The Hortoh Dominion has, through selective breeding and conditioning, created several different varieties of Nashri, with different physical traits and talents. All Nashri have a natural leaning towards aggressive behavior, but can be "tamed" through harsh negative reinforcement.
Nashri are intelligent enough to use and construct technological devices, and even pilot psyframes. However, their Carapor caretakers, using a variety of different drugs, emotional inhibitors, as well as some psychological techniques, ensure that they do not use their intellects to perform acts that could potentially harm the Dominion. As a result of this process, the Nashri become very effective, easy-to-control psyframe pilots.
Almost all Nashri in the galaxy are enslaved (whether they know it or not) by the Hortoh Dominion. The only known exceptions to this rule are the few Nashri that manage to escape custody before they are properly conditioned, and the alleged "freeborn" Nashri that supposedly live on uncharted planets. Groups that escape tend to stick together, forming small hunting packs in order to help each other survive. Individual escapees become antisocial loners, and are especially mistrustful of other living creatures. This includes other members of their own species.
The reason that the Carapors of the Dominion maintain such a hold on their Nashri "pets" is rooted deep within their philosophy and history. According to official records, many thousands of years ago, the Nashri were natives to the planet Hohnben, also known as "the holy land" to the Carapors. Religious documents state that when a Carapor reaches true enlightenment, he ascends from his mortal form and inhabits the eon-old ruins on Hortoh. When a band of Nashri hunter-scavengers attempted to steal an urn that was said to contain the soul of the Carapor god Uhnpal, the Dominion Ministry decided that the only fitting punishment would be to subject the Nashri species to an eternity of servitude. If all of this is true, then the Nashri are living proof of the Dominion's capacity for spite.
Julahn (plural: Julahni): One of the most expansive and influential species in the galaxy, the Julahni (or gem-men as some people like to call them) take great pride in their accomplishments. They are the original founders of the Kerjal Empire, which currently has dominion over more than a third of the galaxy's explored territory. Within the confines of their own culture, they are typically practical, intelligent, ambitious, and dutiful.
Julahni originally hail from the planet Jul, which is known to have starry skies both at night and during the day. Many centuries ago, the Julahni were bound to this planet. This all changed when they developed FTL technology however, and since then, they have done extraordinarily well to prove to the rest of the galaxy that there is no limit to what they can accomplish.
The Julahni's ambition is a double edged sword. On one hand, their zealousness is a trait that has helped them thrive on a galactic scale. On the other hand, they have also developed a sour reputation for not letting anyone get in their way. The Kerjal Empire, much like the Julahni themselves, believe that what's best for them is best for everyone. It's not that they necessarily view themselves as a superior race so much as they believe that their model of government is so efficient that it would be wrong not to include everyone they can. Considering how prosperous many of the worlds under their rule are, there is legitimate cause to believe that this may be the case.
Physically, Julahni are clearly humanoid. Their skin, eye and hair coloration extends to all colors that can be associated with various types of jewelry. The most common Juhlani skin tone, for example, is a deep green (emerald), while the most common hair color is a bright blue (sapphire). The "whites" of a Juhlani's eyes are always the same color as his or her pupils. Juhlani also typically have long, pointed ears. However, there are a few ethnic subtypes that have small, round ears instead.
Fetar (plural: Fetari): Another humanoid species, like the Julahni, but with distinct bird-like traits. Fetari society is currently suffering from the greatest economic depression of its entire written history, and the planets that they have dominion over are quickly becoming overpopulated. In spite of this, they maintain a state of independence, refusing to be shackled by the regulations of some grand empire or federation.
In truth, even if the Fetar did pick a side, it would likely end badly for them. Their homeworld is sandwiched right between a place where the Kerjal Empire and the of Hortoh Dominion meet. Siding with one faction will inevitably involve them in the cold, but tense turf war that Thiria and Kerjal are engaged in.
The Fetari value family highly. Unfortunately, malnutrition and starvation has claimed the lives of so many parents, forcing orphaned children to form families of their own by banding together in large groups. These groups are known as 'orphan flocks,' and are looked upon with both admiration and pity by those who were fortunate enough to be raised by living, caring parents.
All Fetari have a mixture of feathers and flesh in various places on their bodies, including on their chests, forearms, forelegs, and shoulders. The color of a Fetar's feathers is usually, but not always, the same color as the hair on his or her head. They generally have the skin tones that range from dark brown to almost completely white, with various subtle shades of red and olive mixed in. Their feathers, hair and eyes, however, can be just about any color, or even multicolored. A Fetar's feather's feathers are usually, but not always, the same color as his or her hair.
In place of hands and feet, they have sharp talons, with five claws on each one. The talons at the end of their legs have four claws in front, and one in back.
Most notable of all their physical features are the wings on their backs. These strong, powerful wings grant Fetari flight on most hospitable worlds. The gas bags that are located right next to their lungs also help them stay afloat in the air. Unfortunately, this also makes them somewhat lightweight compared to species of similar size.
Arkhan (plural: Arkhans): The Arkhans are an arachnoid-humanoid cross-species that value community above all else, and are the primary inhabitants of the Naranthian Monarchy. Many other species consider them to be strange and unusual, both physically and behaviorally, but they are by no means a hostile people. In fact, the Arkhans are one of the more naturally benevolent and helpful beings in the galaxy.
The appearance of an Arkhan heavily depends on where it is born, due to their incredibly diverse genetic adaptability. Arkhans born on Naranthia (the Arkhan homeworld) resemble giant spiders, with hands at the end of their frontmost legs, 6 fangs, and long, drooping fur on the top of their heads. Those that are born a fair distance away from their homeworld have drider-like bodies, with a humanoid torso, head, and arms, but a spider's legs and abdomen. Arkhans born on the rim of Monarchy are the most humanoid, with their only arachnoid traits being bits of furry exoskeleton covering their bodies in various places, and sometimes several eyes. Typical colorings for Arkhan exoskeletons are black, white, and brown. Common skin colors include white, brown, olive and gray.
The Naranthian Monarchy is a welcoming interstellar nation with a thriving market. They manage to remain neutral with the other factions by allowing open trade to all, so long as they agree to follow the Ithirn. The Ithirn is a set of laws that are to upheld at all costs when conducting trade. Breaking the laws of the Ithirn is a serious crime regardless of the lawbreaker's species or allegiance.
Naranthian space ism without a doubt, one of the most well defended areas in the galaxy. The Kerjal Empire has attempted to conquer the region in order to gain free access to the region's famously abundant resources. Their efforts proved to be startlingly difficult and cost inefficient, which forced the Empire to officially request a truce. A peace treaty was signed in the hopes that the two nations would not go to war again in the foreseeable future.
In spite of the Arkhan's impressive ability to adapt to foreign environments quickly, the Naranthian government is strongly opposed to further interstellar expansion. This isn't because the Arkhans are xenophobic, but because they believe there is simply no need to expand beyond their current borders. Regardless, this does not prevent certain renegades from exploring of their own volition. These small, rogue factions of Arkhan explorers, while not technically criminals, are treated as outcasts by their less adventurous brethren.
Snyvrn (plural Snyvrns): The Snyvrns are certainly one of the more mysterious races to travel the galaxy. The crafty, inventive bat-people live nomadic lives. They have no homeworld to speak of, and prefer to spend their lives on starships or space colonies rather than on the surfaces of planets. They are also the oldest known sapient species in the galaxy.
Physically, the Snyvrns are naturally weak and lanky. They have flat, whiskery faces with sharp teeth and fangs. Their fur-covered bodies are thin, but limber. Instead of hair, Snyvrns have stringy manes that often reach down to their shoulders. Their fur can be either be of a single color, patterned, or mottled. Generally, they have thin red, black or white eyes. Like the Fetari, the Snyvrns have wings. However, their folded, leathery flaps are far better suited for gliding than for actual flight.
Cybernetics are quite popular and common amongst the species. In fact, it is significantly less likely to find an unaugmented Snyvrn than it is to find a mechanically altered one. Amongst Snyvrns, those who are not enhanced with cybernetics are stigmatized for their weakness. There are sects that oppose artificial enhancements of this type, but they are very small and well hidden amongst the droves of cyborg Snyvrns that populate the galaxy.
In spite of their large population, Snyvrns have not formed any significant, centralized governments in several millennia. There are thousands upon thousands of Snyvrn factions across the galaxy, which are referred to as 'clans'. Most clans are descended from heroes or important figures that once lived on their lost homeworld of Gilchai. Unfortunately, Gilchai's location, as well as why it was abandoned, is something that no two clans can seem to agree on. The written history of each of the Snyvrn clans highly contradict each other, making it all but impossible to determine where their true origins lie.
It is often said that "nothing the Snyvrns have belong to them. It's all been given to them by someone else." To an extent, this is true, since they advance by taking lost or abandoned scraps of what other species and factions have left behind. However, by adding their own unique insight to these bits of technology, they often end up improving upon the original designs. Because of this, the Snyvrns have actually become one of the most technologically advanced races in the galaxy. This is quite remarkable considering how disorganized they are as a whole.
Carapor (plural: Carapors): These tall, imposing, bipedal crustaceans are among the most ancient space-faring species in the galaxy. They are the founders of the Hortoh Dominion, which is the second largest superpower in the known galaxy, outsized only by the Kerjal Empire.
Most Carapors stand at an even 9 feet tall, and are covered almost entirely in a thick metal-infused exoskeleton that is roughly as hard and sturdy as steel plating. They possess two arms, two legs, and no head. At the end of each limb are 8 digits: 6 fingers/toes and 2 thumbs. The Carapors' 7 small, beady eyes are located near the top of the torso, poking out several little holes in the plating. If irritated or harmed, these eyes can temporarily retreat back into the exoskeleton until the Carapor in question is comfortable, or the eye is fully healed. The shape and color of the exoskeleton is entirely dependent on ethnicity. While Carapors have no mouths, they do have an organ that allows them to hum in a bass-heavy, low-pitched tone.
By spacing silence in-between hums, the Carapors have created several languages that are functionally similar to morse code. Unfortunately, due to the fact that they lack the organs needed to speak alien languages, they require the assistance of electronic equipment in order to properly communicate with other species.
The Carapors have been sailing the stars for longer than almost any other species. The only known known exception are the Snyverns. Unlike the Snyverns, however, the Carapors are unified, and possess historical records that are unanimously agreed to be at least mostly accurate.
Nashri (plural: Nashri): The Nashri have no recorded history. They have no gods other than the ones that are given. They are only permitted the bare minimum of knowledge required to adequately serve their masters in the Hortoh Dominion. Bred to fight and die on the battlefield, these large, muscular canines are feared throughout the galaxy as savage, ferocious killing machines.
The Nashri highly resemble hyenas, but also possess some bear and gorilla-like features. They exhibit traits of bipedalism, possessing two aft legs and two forward arms, but prefer to move around on four limbs. While standing, they have an average height of 10'2", and while on all fours, they have an average height of 6'11". They possess long, canine muzzles, large mouths, sharp teeth, pointy ears, and glowing eyes. The fur covering their bodies is somewhat thin compared to other canine species, allowing their powerful muscles to be seen even through their coats. Most Nashri have a single, jagged horn on the top of the head. Nashri have manes that stretch from the tops of their head to the midway point down their backs, but their general appearance changes depending on gender. Male Nashri have stiff, straight manes that spike upward, often giving them a mohawk-like style. Females manes are losee and reminiscent of horses, tending to droop down over one side of the body. Fur and mane colors, spots, stripes, and other markings can vary depending on the breed of the Nashri.
While sapient, the Nashri are bred like animals, and treated no differently. The Hortoh Dominion has, through selective breeding and conditioning, created several different varieties of Nashri, with different physical traits and talents. All Nashri have a natural leaning towards aggressive behavior, but can be "tamed" through harsh negative reinforcement.
Nashri are intelligent enough to use and construct technological devices, and even pilot psyframes. However, their Carapor caretakers, using a variety of different drugs, emotional inhibitors, as well as some psychological techniques, ensure that they do not use their intellects to perform acts that could potentially harm the Dominion. As a result of this process, the Nashri become very effective, easy-to-control psyframe pilots.
Almost all Nashri in the galaxy are enslaved (whether they know it or not) by the Hortoh Dominion. The only known exceptions to this rule are the few Nashri that manage to escape custody before they are properly conditioned, and the alleged "freeborn" Nashri that supposedly live on uncharted planets. Groups that escape tend to stick together, forming small hunting packs in order to help each other survive. Individual escapees become antisocial loners, and are especially mistrustful of other living creatures. This includes other members of their own species.
The reason that the Carapors of the Dominion maintain such a hold on their Nashri "pets" is rooted deep within their philosophy and history. According to official records, many thousands of years ago, the Nashri were natives to the planet Hohnben, also known as "the holy land" to the Carapors. Religious documents state that when a Carapor reaches true enlightenment, he ascends from his mortal form and inhabits the eon-old ruins on Hortoh. When a band of Nashri hunter-scavengers attempted to steal an urn that was said to contain the soul of the Carapor god Uhnpal, the Dominion Ministry decided that the only fitting punishment would be to subject the Nashri species to an eternity of servitude. If all of this is true, then the Nashri are living proof of the Dominion's capacity for spite.