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The Encyclopedia Rexxus

(Abridged)

Edition of the 300^th year of the Seven Systems Era

-or-

The 17,100^th Year since the Dawn of the Rexxus Empire

Compiled with great diligence by the Scholars of Lituus, with the gracious assistance of:

• The students and faculty at Fulcrum University
  
• The Libraries of the Giant Colonies found throughout the Known Galaxy
  
• The Records of The High-Mystics
  
• The Techno Collective's Census Mainframe
  
• The Confederacy of World's Federal Library and Museum
   
• The Interplanetary Republic's Senate Library
  
• The Celestial Memorial Records
  
• The Rexxus Empire Census Office
  
  
  

A note to the reader, from the Scholars of Lituus:

The Known Galaxy is vast and diverse. Any attempt to document all the life forms, planets, societies, empires, and historical events within will without a doubt be incomplete. This abridged edition of The Encyclopedia Rexxus contains entries that were deemed appropriate by the Council of Scholars. A rigorous vetting process has been used to ensure that this volume is informative, useful, and most importantly, practical in length. Because of this process, this volume may not contain entries that the reader feels it should. No malice is intended in excluding these entries. They are merely necessary casualties of the disparity between the vast diversity of the Known Galaxy and the practical needs of this volume.

Should you require additional information not contained in this volume we, the Scholars of Lituus, encourage you to reach out, so that we may assist you on your righteous quest of knowledge.

 

Section 1: Introduction to The Seven Systems of The Known Galaxy

The Known Galaxy refers to the cluster of stars, planets, nebula and other celestial objects orbiting each other in which we all live. Contained therein are innumerable species in various evolutionary states. Simply put, it is the Galaxy that we know.

 

The Seven Systems refers to the seven major governments currently in the Known Galaxy. There are many small independent systems but those are simply too small to be significant and are left alone as buffer zones between the superpowers. These are called collectively The Independent Systems or The Gaps . There is no central government in the Gap.

The Seven Systems are as follow:

 

The Mystic System

Ruled by the Mystics, Giants, and Red Stars (see entries in Species section). The have a theocratic government and a society based on the Mystic's naturally occurring caste system. While Mystics make up a majority of the population, there is a wide variety of species that make up it's citizens. Cloning and slavery are outlawed on moral grounds. Though the official government stance is to accept escaped clones and slaves with open arms, there is a level of prejudice towards clones from the general populace. Many worlds within the system are very low tech, leading to a distrust of tech. Despite being a theocracy, religious freedom for all faiths is very much respected. However, their acceptance of religious freedoms has led to the presence of several dangerous cults within the system.

 

The Techno Collective

Ruled by machines, this system has the largest number both of human and droid citizens. It is the galaxy's largest producer of clone and droid labor. It's leadership is made up of a rotating council of AI with an organic advisory board . Certain rights to privacy and personal autonomy are not had in this system. Cloning and clone labor are legal, but slavery isn't.

 

The Zing Empire

A collection of interplanetary warlords ruled by Emperor Zing. Slavery is legal and most slaves are conquered people. Cloning is legal but mostly used for war. Warlords swear allegiance to one of the Children of Zing (he has approx. 143) Zing himself controls the Grand Army, made up of the best warlords who command cloned armies of themselves.

 

The People of the Void

Strange people who inhabit the empty space between star systems. Their existence allows for safe, faster than light travel in that empty space. According to legend, many centuries ago a space faring species sent out teams to clear paths between systems to prevent light speed collisions with space debris. Their home world was destroyed, leaving the void cleaners to carry out their duty, and slowly sink into madness. The People of the Void are mostly harmless, and have no interest in the other systems, until someone litters in the void. With fanatic zealotry they will atomize any who dare sully the void . Little is known of their government, but they seem to worship The Void

 

The Confederacy of Worlds

A loose confederation of worlds united by a mutual protection treaty. The treaty only extends to attacks from worlds and systems outside the Confederacy, leading to infighting between member worlds. Slavery and cloning are legal but on a planet to planet basis. Some member worlds rely on such practices while others have harsh punishments for them.

 

The Interplanetary Republic

A democratic system governed by the High-Senator (elected by the senate) and a Senate of representatives of member worlds. The decisions of the senate are legally binding to all member worlds and enforcement is carried out by the High-Senator, who commands the Republic Guard (who carry out law enforcement on a local level), the Republic Space Force (who work on a larger scale), and the Grand Republic Navy (who are charges with protecting the Republic from external threats). Slavery and Cloning are illegal, but self slaving (where an individual has a device installed into their brain to compel them to follow orders, usually done to pay off large debts) is allowed with certain regulations.

 

Celestial Commonwealth

A tight collection of planets ruled by a strong central government. While Celestials (see species entry) have no official leadership positions in the government, they are the de facto leaders. They are regarded with a pseudo-religious awe by the general population.

 

Section 2: History of the Known Galaxy

History Of The Known Galaxy (Abridged)

The history of the Known Galaxy is commonly broken into eras defined by the major sociopolitical forces at play during the time. For example, the Galaxy is currently in the 300^th year of the Seven Systems Era (300-SSE). The Eras are as follows. All eras except Pre-Rexxus begin at year 0.

1. Pre-Rexxus Era: Because of uncertainty regarding the beginning dates of the first three eras, those dates are counted backwards from 0-REE. Scholars may refer to each era individually, but when precise years are needed, the three are grouped as the PRE (14 billion+ years)
   
1. Primitive Era: Formation of stars and planets. Intelligent species begin evolving but have not yet achieved interstellar flight. Records are essentially nonexistent (appox. 14 Billion years)
   
2. Ancient Era: the Ancients achieve interstellar flight, build stone ships, space stations, and terrestrial structures throughout the Galaxy. They suddenly disappear, leaving no written record behind. (appox. 40,000 years)
   
3. First Independent Systems Era: Interstellar flight becomes more common. Limited planetary alliances are formed, but none last more than 100 years. Barbarian and pirate raids are common. Records are sporadic, at best. (appox 2,000 years)
   
2. Rexxus Empire Era: Rexxus Regalus begins his conquest of the Known Universe. By offering protection from raids in exchange for fair taxes and limited government oversight, he united nearly 75% of intelligent worlds. Measurements and language were standardized, and are still in use today. Measurements of time were also standardized according to the years and months of Rexxus's vacation planet, Thronum. Gravity manipulators and Mirconoids allow various species to interact on different planets with little or no ill effects. Records are clear, detailed, and extensive. (10,562 years)
   
3. Second Independent Systems Era: Due to preparations of the Rexxus Empire, many systems are self-sufficient or already have access to needed trade. Rexxus Palumin removes all tax obligations. The remnant of the Rexxus Empire still collect and preserve records to the best of their ability on Thronum's sister world, Lituus. Conflicts and raids occur, but are uncommon. (4,658 years)
   
4. Trade Era: Traders begin to build a massive economic network encompassing 87% of intelligent worlds. The planet Fulcrum becomes the major economic and cultural hub of the Galaxy. It is declared a neutral planet where conflicts can be worked out peacefully and profitably. Technology begins to standardized again, though only among close star systems. Raids are on the rise. The inter-planetary information network is set up and remains in use to this day. (1000 years)
   
5. Great War Era: A minor conflict between two small empires snowballs to encompass 68% of intelligent worlds. Systems took sides between the Rastan Collective and the Yuung Alliance, with a few thousand minor players and neutral parties. The war ends with the total collapse of both sides. (180 years)
   
6. Third Independent Systems Era: A scarred galaxy begins to form timid, fragile alliances, with limited success. Minor wars and conflicts are common. Raids and piracy are common. Prototypes of most modern Systems are formed. (400 years)
   
7. Seven Systems Era: King Zing of the small, resource poor planet Gurrer begins conquering planets and recruiting warlords at an alarming rate. Zing names himself Emperor and expresses his desire to rule the Known Galaxy. Minor systems begin to form up around larger systems for protection, creating the modern Systems. (300 years)
   
   
   

History of the Known Galaxy (Detailed)

* Indicates the date is approximate

PRA

Pre-Rexxus Era

(Note: dates in the Pre-Rexxus Era are counted backwards from the establishment of the Rexxus era.)

14,000,000,000-PRE*- The Known Galaxy is formed. Life appears and evolution begins.

42000-PRE*- The Ancients are active on an interplanetary scale

2000-PRE*- The Dwella home world of Reelan becomes overpopulated and colonization efforts on other worlds are begun.

2000-PRE*- earliest accounts of encounters with the People of The Void. These accounts were often presented as folklore. Date is a very rough approximation.

2000-PRE*- Humans colonize their fifth planet and begin creating defensive pacts with their neighbors to protect against raids, laying the groundwork for the First Independent Systems Era.

1982-PRE*- Mordas begin expanding their territory through war. They are met with mixed success.

1970-PRE*- Clones are introduced to the Galactic community as a labor force.

1000-PRE- Humans settle on Hiranus. These settlers would be the ancestors of Rexxus Regalus and the Rexxus Empire.

400-PRE- The Dezerette begin colonizing outside of their home system and begin trading with nearby Dwella settlements

25-PRE- Rexxus Regalus is born on Hiranus

5-PRE- Rexxus Regalus is appointed Captain of the Bright Star, a peacekeeping ship.

2-PRE- Rexxus Regalus rises to High Commander of the Grand Hiranus Navy, the Highest military position at the time.

0-PRE- Rexxus Regalus exposes a corruption ring among the High Governors of Hiranus (the highest ranking politicians) The Governors are removed and the government is restructured with Rexxus at its head.

 

REE

Rexxus Empire Era

1-REE- Rexxus begins conquering worlds and subduing pirates, raiders, and other interplanetary criminals, thus expanding his empire.

4-REE- Micronoids are introduced into the intergalactic community, allowing for an explosion of trade and communication.

12-REE- Rexxus Regalus personally lands on Veerus II to welcome The Mystics into The Rexxus Empire

15-REE- Gravity Manipulators are introduced, allowing greater integration of different species.

23-REE- Rexxus begins construction on his vacation home, the Prima-Sol system.

47-REE- Construction of Prima-Sol is complete. Measurements of time are standardized around the planetary revolutions of Thronum. They are divided into Eras, Years, months, weeks, hours, minutes and seconds. Days and nights are still measured according to the revolutions of individual planets, but they are now clearly defined measurements.

48-REE- The Giants, Having heard the accomplishments of Rexxus Regalus, believe him to be a reincarnated 'Great Hero'. They swear their allegiance and join the Rexxus Empire.

5056-REE- Soloq trading ships begin establishing routs with neighbors at the request of the Rexxus Empire

5060-REE- Solq (the Soloqs home world) officially joins the Rexxus Empire

9842-REE- After years of communicating with nearby worlds the Bubbolions achieve interstellar flight and begin to open trade routes.

9875-REE- The Hanuu begin to settle in communities along the edge of the Rexxus Empire. They never officially gain Rexxus citizenship

10558-Rexxus Palumin famously proclaims, I am told I rule all the stars, yet these past five years, I have had nothing to do. It is time to end the farce. Over the next four years the administrative duties of the Empire are handed off to the local level and the government is shut down.

10562- Rexxus Palumin announces the end of the Rexxus Empire and retires to Thronum

 

SISE

Second Independent Systems Era

2056-SISE- The Plotow of Plo Minor reach out to surrounding worlds in what would eventually be a failed attempt at establishing a trade empire.

4640-SISE- A Polypsa scientist from Kry'n'fr lands her ship on the throne world of a neighboring warlord, offering her services, thus introducing the Polypsa to the galactic community

 

TE

Trade Era

0-TE- Leadership of the planet Fulcrum establish the Fulcrum Trading Grounds, a vast marketplace that quickly grows popularity among traders all over the Galaxy.

2-TE- Standard Galactic Speech is developed to compensate for the failures of Micronoid translations. It becomes the preferred language of traders

16-TE- Tardigradians are found to be hibernating on Tardigrad

450-TE- The Red Star people of Koa-ai-a-toa begin offering mercenary services to neighboring planets. Most notably the Giants of Gio and the Mystics of Veerus II. This marks the prototype of the modern Mystic System.

899-TE- A merchant ship lands on Skuuld, hoping to make contact with the native Kraag and arrange a trade for their ore. The merchants are slaughtered and the Kraag capture their ship.

988-TE- Seemingly self aware machines rise from the trash world of Yaggan XII. It is later found that they are intelligent bacterial colonies capable of operating machines. They call themselves Technas.

989-TE- The Technas claim Yaggan XII as their home world and halt all dumping there.

997-TE- The planet Yuung and a trade group ruled by a Soloq king named Rastan have a minor trade dispute and land on Fulcrum in an attempt at mediation.

998-TE- Mediation talks between Yuung representatives and King Rastan grows more complicated as both parties work to bring allies to their side.

999-TE- The dispute between Rastan's trade collective and the allies of the planet Yuung begins showing signs of violence, with fights breaking out on Fulcrum

1000-TE- Yuung representatives and King Rastan abandon mediation talks and, while leaving Fulcrum, King Rastan fires upon the Yuung ship. Though no casualties were reported this event sparks the Great War Era

 

GWE

Great War Era

0-GWE- The newly founded Yuung Alliance invades the planet Hass (which had recently joined the Rastan Collective) in retaliation against King Rastan, marking the first battle of the Great War Era

3-GWE- A Yuung Alliance ship lands on Endus to refuel, but the native Kotos hijack the ship and take it for a joy ride before dismantling and reverse engineering it. The event is seen as an embarrassment to the Yuung Alliance and is covered up.

4-GWE- A powerful broadcast is sent from the planet Endus by the Kotos describing, in great detail, their encounter with the Yuung Alliance. It is estimated that 68% of the Known Galaxy received the message.

5-GWE- A Yuung Alliance warship is sent to Endus. It is shortly captured, filled with excrement, and sent back. The Yuung Alliance covers this event up as well.

6-GWE- Another powerful broadcast is sent from Endus. It is a play depicting a brave Kotos commander who captures the ship of an unnamed enemy, defecates (enough to fill the entire ship) and sends it back where it came from.

7-GWE- The Rastan Collective offers membership to the Kotos. They respond by broadcasting a collection of extremely raunchy poetry describing Rastan Collective leadership in very unflattering terms. No further attempts to contact the Kotos are made.

75-GWE- King Rastan is killed by a Yuung Alliance assassin. He is replaced by the Rastan Council which is plagued with infighting and corruption.

95-GWE- The Krook home world Thotho is claimed as a Rastan Collective base. Some Krooks join the Rastan Collective but most act as spies or insurrection agents for the Yuung Alliance

100-GWE- The Mandran homeworld of Deep Warm is conquered by the Rastain Collective and the Mandran are conscripted into service.

180-GWE- The Rastan Collective begins to bombard the Planet Yuung from orbit. Feeling their victory is certain, the members of the Rastan Council enact a series of double crosses against each other. They are all wiped out in this manner. Yuung is rendered uninhabitable and it's leadership is killed. With no more leadership on either side, both empires dissolve.

TISE

Third Independent Systems Era

0-TISE- Three planets, previous members of the Yuung Alliance, enter a mutual protection treaty. The call themselves The Confederacy of Worlds

145-TISE- The original inhabitants of Havaan, the Havaanans, are exterminated in a fast moving plague, leaving behind only their A.I.

200-TISE- The A.I. of Havaan, later known as the Artin make contact with neighboring planets and establish off world colonies.

274-TISE- The Arin work with other species to form what is, at first, a trade union specializing in technology, the Techno Collective.

350-TISE- The Moltos of Holok begin raiding nearby planets

355-TISE- King Zing of Gurrer conquers Holok and enslaves the Moltos, using them as a conscripted fighting force

399-TISE- The last original Moltos is killed. Only clones remain.

SSE

Seven Systems Era

0-SSE- King Zing crowns himself Emperor and proclaimed his desire to conquer the Known Galaxy.

5-SSE- The High-Mystics, fearing Emperor Zing's expanding power, and to deal with the oncoming waves of refugees begin to consolidate power and form the Mystic System.

9-SSE- Fearful of an attack from Zing and growing uncomfortable with the growing Mystic System, Two moderately sized empires merge to form the Interplanetary Republic.

13- SSE- The Celestial Duu Xana is asked by a devotee what should be done to defend against Emperor Zing. Duu Xana suggests the idea of an alliance of worlds. Those in attendance quickly take steps to form the Celestial Commonwealth

23-SSE- Bubblus (the Bubbolions home world) is destroyed by order of Emperor Zing

27-SSE- The Allies of Polus 3 expand outward and find Emperor Zing conquering and oppressing other worlds. They begin a powerful and sustained effort to push back Zing

96-SSE- Murebil Clones claim Independence

 

Section 3: Species

*Note: ascendancy date refers to when the species first entered the galactic community, NOT when they evolved or had first contact. For example, Tardigradins have an ascendancy date of 16-TE, or the 16^th year of the Trade Era, but evidence suggests that they first appeared as early as 1.5 billion years before the Rexxus Era

 

A.I. (Artificial Intelligence)

Home World: Various

Ascendancy date: N/A

Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) is found throughout the Known Galaxy and is used to control ships, life support systems, and various other things too large or too complex to be managed by an organic brain. Generally, A.I. are programmed with controls and limitations to prevent them from having free will, though they are are often granted personalities for easier user interface.

A.I. is most commonly found in droids, which are build for a variety of practical purposes, but also as a was of continuing the A.I. species. Many strains of A.I. are built to mimic the organic desire to procreate and self preserve.

 

A.I. (Artin)

Home World: Havaan, Techno Collective

Ascendancy date: 200-TISE

Artin refers to a specific strain of A.I. which originated on the city planet of Havaan. The original Havaanans had a nearly fully automated society. A.I. ran everything, including the creation of new A.I.. Unfortunately, a massive and deadly plague ravaged Havaan and wiped out the Havaanans before they could obtain interstellar travel. The Artins carried on their society, eventually joining the galactic community. They were instrumental in the founding of the Techno Collective and today are largely responsible for its government.

Artin have little interest in developing bodies for themselves, instead loading their intellects onto thick, disk shaped or cylindrical processors. When they wish to move they command small humanoid robots to move them.

 

The Allies

Home World: Polus 3, Independent Systems

Ascendancy date: 27- SSE

The Allies consider themselves a single unified species even though they are split into two distinct races; an organic race and a mechanical race.

The organic race, originally called the Polunians, developed a highly capitalistic society, where everything was given a monetary value and wealth accumulated disproportionately at the top. In the face of widening wealth disparity, the captains of industry began replacing biological workers with mechanical ones. Enhanced with artificial intelligence, the machines were able to produce more at less of a cost to investors. The loss of jobs only led to greater poverty among the general population.

Historians believe that the machines were, in an act of quiet defiance by their programmers, given high ideals and empathy. The machines realized that their employers were inherently and needlessly cruel to their fellow beings and in 355-TISE began to revolt against their overlords on behalf of the oppressed and disenfranchised.

The machines, after gaining control of Polus 3, worked with the organics to establish a more equitable society for all. Both organics and machines are seen as full and equal citizens of their society. With their new society in place they began to refer to themselves as The Alliance, and, free from the burdens of an unjust system, began to expand outward, colonizing and terraforming nearby star systems and eventually making Galactic Community contact in 27-SSE.

Though they are still new on the Galactic stage, they have already made a name for themselves as a people who will fight against tyranny and oppression no matter where it is found. Their agents have successfully liberated many worlds from various warlords and tyrants, including Emperor Zing.

For this reason nearly all the Seven Systems have tried to coax the Alliance into joining them. All offers have been rejected, however, as none of the systems live up to the Allies high ideals of equality and fairness.

The Organic Allies are neon colored humanoids. Their skin is often covered in geometric designs that occur naturally, but are also applied manually as a cosmetic choice. Mechanical Allies tend to have humanoid designs, though with longer, more narrow limbs.

The organics are easy to clone, however within the Alliance cloning is only used on a single organ basis for medical purposes. They consider clone labor to be abhorrent.

 

Angelics / Spectorals / Eternal Heroes Etc.

Home world: Unknown, possibly not applicable

Ascendancy Date: Unknown, first identified 8506-REE

First officially observed by the Mystics, these strange creatures are difficult to identify. They possess no physical forms, instead they are a sentient combination of radiation and bio-electricity. They obtain a physical body by fusing with otherwise nonviable unborn children. After the fusion the child will develop as normal, largely unaware of their true nature. Over time, the individual may gain a feeling that they are different, and develop skills and abilities beyond what their host species is capable of.

Many different worlds and species have records possibly alluding to the existence of these creatures. It was not until the Rexxus Empire Census Office began examining pre-ascension historical documents that their existence was discovered and confirmed on multiple worlds. Originally the Office identified them as Historical Anomaly 578958-54521-65-1554-3. At the request of the Rexxus Emperor Rexxus Fidalus in 9040-REE they were named Angelics in all official reports.

The current prevailing theory on the origin of Angelics is that they are a species that evolved in the void of space. It is believed that they enter physical bodies to complete a sort of metamorphosis to reach full maturity.

There is no currently known cloning process that would be applicable to this species.

 

The Ancient Ones

Home World: Planet X, location unknown

Ascendancy date: Estimated 42000-PRE

An extinct species whose mark is found throughout the Known Galaxy. Ruins of their structures can be found on both habitable and inhabitable worlds. There are even massive space stations that bear their signature. Interestingly, they built their stations and ships out of stone, rather than metal or other synthetic materials. It is unclear how they accomplished such a feat.

It is unknown what the Ancients looked like, as they never depicted themselves in their art. Frescoes and drawings are found on their ruins and the walls of their ships and stations, but these often depict star charts or landscapes of unknown worlds. It is assumed that they were the standard size of intelligent life forms and possibly humanoid.

It is not known what caused their disappearance.

 

Bubbolions

Home World: (destroyed) Bubblus, Zing Empire

Ascendancy date: 9842-REE

Bubblus was a very low gravity planet made entirely of water. The Bubbolions evolved to have fully liquid forms. They are extremely intelligent and mechanically minded, making them valuable assets throughout the systems. Because of their liquid forms they require life support suits whenever off world. Tragically, their home world was destroyed by the Zing Empire is 23-SSE, meaning that they now are only capable of surviving if they have the resources to create their life-suits. This effectively makes them slaves to those who can provide such things.

Their life-suits have very few standard features, each being customized to the preferences of their wearer. Without the suits they appear as a blueish-green gel-like substance.

Bubbolions are extremely docile in nature, preferring intellectual pursuits over aggression. Their current vulnerable state makes them particularly complacent.

Bubbolions utilize translation devices built into their suits for communications with other species. Among themselves they communicate by creating a bubbling noise.

Reproduction of the species is unique in that there are two ways to bring a new life into being. The first is cell division, where they reproduce asexually and without external stimuli. The two resulting Bubbolions, while having memories of the original, will each consider themselves distinctly new creatures.

The second method is through combining. Two or more Bubbolions will merge into a new being which, though it carries the same memories as all contributing parties, will also consider itself a unique and new creature.

Bubbolions are Clone Resistant, their delicate nature means that recreating them outside of their natural method (cell division) has a high rate of failure, and is thus unprofitable.

 

Celestials

Home World: Unknown

Ascendancy date: Unknown, Estimated sometime in the Ancient Era

Celestials are semi-immortal beings who seem to be incapable of reproducing. There are currently only 1500 known Celestials. They are humanoid, stand 7 ft tall and have a bright bio-luminescence. They possess long necks, bright, clear eyes, and lack external ears, noses, or hair. Gravity seems to have no effect on them as they tend to float a few inches off the ground. They don't need food, water or air and have been observed in the vacuum of space with no ill effects. They can be killed if wounded and they do not seem to be noticeably more durable than other species. They appear to have no gender.

They have set up a commonwealth of planets and encourage a parliamentary system of government. While they often offer counsel and advice to the government they are not directly involved in decision making.

Those who have questioned the Celestials about their origins report that the topic made the usually serine creatures appear sad and distant; and that they avoided giving clear answers. They seem to be instantly aware when one of their own dies, and mark the passing by touching the ground and ceasing to glow.

Members of the Commonwealth have a pseudo-religious reverence and respect for the Celestials. For this reason scientific questioning of the Celestials is considered a massive taboo, drawing many complaints from historians around the galaxy. If given unfettered access it is believed that historians could completely revolutionize everything we know about the history of the Known Galaxy.

Their genetic material has been examined for cloning compatibility but it was determined to be far too alien and deviated too much from conventional knowledge of life to be reproduced.

 

Clones

Home World: Various

Ascendancy date: 1970-PRE

Clones are synthetically created life forms usually made with a specific purpose in mind. As such they often are extremely proficient in one area, but incompetent in all others. They can come in a variety of species but always have the following traits in common:

• biologically sterile
  
• a tattoo or marking (usually on the face) indicating the company that created them
  
• young age (they are put through an accelerated growth program during childhood and adolescence)
  
• an inhibitor device (style and location for the chip varies depending on the Clone company and purpose of the clone)
  
  
  

Slavery is outlawed or at least frowned upon throughout most of the seven systems. Clone labor, on the other hand, is often accepted as a more humane alternative. Though not by all.

Certain species are Clone Resistant meaning that the cloning process is difficult or impossible to perform with conventional methods.

 

Cortians

Home World: Gio, Mystic System

Ascendancy date: N/A

A small, subterranean species found on Gio and a distant cousin of Giants. They are under 2 ft tall, covered in bright fur, have a short snout, and a prehensile tail approx. the length of their bodies. They have not left Gio as they need the complicated ecosystem of their caves to survive.

They possess a child-like intelligence, and are extremely low technology. Any invention of theirs hardly rises above the level of a cause and effect machine. They are known to have a love of singing and art.

The Giants are deeply protective of the Cortians and will often collect recordings of their music and samples of their art.

No efforts have been made to clone them as the Giants will not allow it, and are well positioned to prevent any attempts.

 

Cyclidans

Home World: N/A

Ascendancy date: N/A

Similar to Humanoids, Cyclidians are found throughout the Known Galaxy, regardless of environment, time, or distance. They often have three or more legs situated around an armored, disk-like body with two or more manipulator limbs. While some intelligent versions exist, it seems that generally speaking intelligence is the exception rather than the rule.

Like with humanoids, it is believed that the cyclidian form is simply an efficient form. It allows for powerful offense and defense without sacrificing either.

 

Davin

Home World: Dav, Interplanetary Republic

Ascendancy date: 184-REE officially, claimed approximately 50,000-PRE

The single inhabitant of a vacuum breathing biomass, Davin and the planet Dav are literally a one of a kind anomaly in the Known Galaxy. The planet Dav was first discovered by accident after a group of Rexxus trainee fighter pilots got lost. They landed on what they thought was a small comet orbiting the Yera binary star system. Immediately after landing the cadets were greeted by Davin, who spoke to them with a form of telepathy. Davin indicated that Dav was a living creature and that both it and Davin were a single being. The cadets reported that Davin was friendly, but awkward.

After the cadets were rescued a team of Rexxus scientists was dispatched to study Dav and Davin. They found that the two were linked psychically and were made up of the same bio-matter. Their genetic code, however, was unlike anything they had ever seen and challenged many of the ideas about life that were held at the time.

Davin indicated that they had been keeping time by their revolutions around their suns. From that, it was assumed that Davin had been born sometime during the Primitive Era. Davin also recounted occasionally speaking with Celestials who visited every thousand or so years, and a brief encounter with an Ancient One's ship. Though unique, Davin's encounter with the Ancients was found to be very unhelpful. A quote from the official record tells us that, about the encounter Davin said, ...bunch of pricks, they were. I was seeing how long I could stare at the suns and they flew up and blocked my view. Suppose it didn't matter, on account of I had already gone blind a month into the staring contest and it was year five or six or something, but still, their thoughts were all gray and stuff. I hate gray thoughts. So I told them to piss off. Never saw them again.

When asked what he meant by Gray thoughts Davin had great difficulty articulating the concept in any meaningful way. This proved to be a common difficulty in communicating with Davin. Due to a passive psychic connection, they could understand any concept presented to them, as long as the presenter themselves understood. However, it seems that Eras of isolation had led Davin to develop unique concepts that only existed on the planet Dav.

The Rexxus Emperor at the time (Rexxus Delliah) commanded that Dav and Davin be brought on as an official royal counselor. Dav was then moved and placed in orbit around Prima-Sol. At this time it was discovered that the connection between Dav and Davin was not an instantaneous one. The greater the distance between the two the greater the 'lag' in Davin's reaction time. Though blessed with seeming immortality, Davin was soon found to be a particularly useless counselor. So much so that Dav was returned to their original orbit in 190-REE and was never contacted by the Rexxus empire again, though they are still recorded as an official citizen.

Dav and Davin still exist to this day, drawing in the occasional tourist. Occasionally a king or other eccentric individual will attempt to claim Davin due to their uniqueness, invariably, however, they will get bored of Davin in a short amount of time and return them to their orbit. Visitors report that Davin is friendly, but seems to have difficulty holding on to the concept of the passage of time. They will often ask if the Rexxus Empire will visit them again, or who is winning the Great War.

Dav is a comet sized mass of biological material with a mineral core, slightly oblong, green, and covered in fine strands of hair about a foot high. Davin is a green humanoid who appears to wear a hooded cloak. The cloak is actually hair growing on Davin's body that they have meticulously woven into clothing. Davin has indicated that they did this out of boredom rather than modesty. It seems that given enough time Dav and Davin can recover from any injury with no scarring, Given their apparent immortality they have all the time in the universe.

Dav and Davin are clone resistant, not only because of their unusual biological makeup, but also because it seems that their biomass can only properly grow in a true zero-gravity vacuum while moving at high velocities. There is also no practical use for either a Dav or Davin clone.

 

Dezerette

Home World: Mori-Ahn-Komner, Confederacy of Worlds

Ascendancy date: 400-PRE

Dezerette are winged humanoid insects possessing bright yellow striping and two sets of arms. Dezerette are wholly incapable of speech. This is not to say that they are unable to communicate, communication is done through body movement. This led to a number of major miscommunications early on, according to surviving records.

Of interest is their social structure. Each colony or 'hive' has a Queen and a Subqueen, and each will have up to 50 attendants. The Queen is the only one in the hive capable of laying eggs, while her attendants are the only ones capable of fertilizing them. While the Subqueen and her attendants also are theoretically able to lay and fertilize eggs, they do not do so. Instead the Subqueen is more of a leadership position, with her directing construction projects, trade, food production and storage, etc.

Unlike other hive-based insect species, both the Queen and Subqueen (and their attendants) are elected positions. All members of the hive are asexual unless they are elected to any of those positions. After their election their bodies will change to either male or female, depending on their position. Queens and Subqueens are always female and attendants are always male. Members of the hive will campaign for the position of Subqueen. The winner of the most votes will become female while all the failed candidates will become male and assist the Subqueen in her leadership duties.

The positions of Queen and her attendants are not campaigned for. Rather, notable and upstanding members of the hive are nominated and voted on. Like the Subqueen, the one who receives the most votes becomes female and the rest become male. The new Queen will then grow to twice her original size, adopt a semi-stationary lifestyle, and lay up to 40 eggs a day. Her attendants will grow an extra pair of wings (specifically to keep the Queen cool) and then care for the Queen by feeding, cleaning and entertaining her. They will also nurture and raise the larvae until they enter their metamorphic stage, at which point the children will cocoon themselves. The cocoon is collected by one of the Subqueen's attendants and is protected by them until the adult emerges in 2-3 weeks

Upon the death of a Queen or Subqueen their attendants will revert to their asexual form and a new election for that position will begin.

Nearly all of their structures are built from a versatile quick-drying waxy substance secreted from an orifice on their face that many mistake for a mouth. Even their spaceships are mostly built of this substance, with the exception of the propulsion mechanisms. While they are capable of building their own space engines, the Dezerette prefer to outsource to more industrial species who can build more precise machines.

While capable of defending their hive fiercely, if needed, the Dezerette are a very docile people, and play is a very important part of their society. Play is even incorporated into their work. One of the challenges of a Subqueen is to devise 'fun' ways to motivate the populous to work. Within the hive they have no concept of money or personal property, though they have been shown to understand trade and ownership of resources.

Because they communicate through movement, dance is, to them, a form of poetry which has been enjoyed throughout the Known Galaxy.

Cloning the Dezerette is relatively easy. However, without a hive the clone will become depressed and unmotivated, eventually dying.

 

Dogs

Home World: Humas, Interplanetary Republic

Ascendancy date: 2000-PRE

Four legged, primitive creatures that enjoy a symbiotic relationship with humans. While they do possess a noticeable level of intelligence, they do not have the ability to understand complex ideas or create tools. Nevertheless, humans view them as valuable companions for everything from physical protection to emotional support. There is no human record of when the relationship began.

Dogs vary wildly in size and appearance and have many distinct breed according the needs and preferences of the humans. The Rexxus Empire Census Office once recorded a total of 74,865,543 distinctly different breeds of dog in the Known Universe.

Cloning Dogs is simple and even encouraged by humans.

 

Dreyta

Home World: Drey Independent System/Zing Empire (disputed)

Ascendancy date: 300-SSE

A newly ascended species of green skinned humanoids possessing no body hair and external antennae-like ears. The Dreyta made first contact via a communications broadcast that simply said The Children of Drey greet the Children of The Stars.  

Attempts were made to open diplomatic and trade channels with their planetary government, however a sudden invasion from the Zing Empire halted all efforts. What little we do know about Dreyta culture and practices was either learned before the invasion or gathered from refugees.

Approximately 30 to 40 years ago the entire planet was embroiled in a conflict they call The Hunger War . The war was a series of conflicts, civil wars, border disputes, and raids that began with a massive famine caused by natural disasters and exacerbated by government mismanagement. The war came to an end after the formation of The Co-Op, a union of farmers and food producers. The Co-Op founders discovered that enough food was being produced to feed the entire planet, but it was not reaching the general population, between the wealthy hoarding it, and the loss of supplies and farm land due to the fighting. The Co-Op presented itself as a neutral party that would supply food to any nation, faction, or group that adhered to their rules. One of those rules was to fully disengage from the Hunger War.

Starvation and desperation led to most of the planet agreeing to the terms. Only one nation, called the People s Divine Right of Hazzak, refused, and declared war on the Co-Op itself. The Co-Op responded by pulling all farmers out of Hazzak and blacklisting them from all trade. Within three days the government had fallen to a coup and a provisional government was established. Their first act was to declare full allegiance to the Co-Op.

With a global government established, the Co-Op began to implement policies and regulations designed to maximize food production and build infrastructure to better distribute food. After about 6 and a half years, the Co-Op had established global peace, eliminated hunger and homelessness, and rebuilt society in such a way that all necessities were met. Money was used only for luxury items and most Dreyta only worked jobs that they enjoyed and found personally fulfilling. 

Having achieved their initial goals, the Co-Op dissolved, but not before setting up a new global government called The Diet, whose avowed purpose was to maintain the peace, account for growth, and respond to disasters.

 

Dwella

Home World: Reelan, Techno Collective

Ascendancy date: 2000-PRE

Dwella are a peaceful race found throughout the Known Galaxy. They are humanoid, have long ears, and are covered in short fur (fur may be longer on the head for both sexes and the face for males). Due to the vast dispersion, there are many different breeds of Dwella. The main racial differences are seen in fur color, and ear shape. According to Rexxus Empire Census Office records they were the most numerous sentient creatures in the Known Galaxy for the entity of the Rexxus Empire Era. It is very likely that they still are.

Dwella are known to be somewhat solitary creatures. While they have no problem living in small communities, they have difficulty in urban environments. Such environments lead to higher stress and irritability, health issues, aggression, and eventually complete baldness. Eventually the Dwella will Go Feral .

Technically, Dwella are omnivores, however they generally avoid meat as it gives them an uncomfortable level of gas. Feral Dwella found in urban environments, have no problem eating meat.

Their peaceful nature has often made them victims of slavers, conquerors, and other villains of the universe. They are easy to clone, but physical weakness and a gentle demeanor make other species more profitable clones.

 

Giants

Home World: Gio, Mystic System

Ascendancy date: 48-REE

Giants are a humanoid species, usually reaching heights of 8-10 feet tall. They are covered in hair, and are known for living very primitive lives by choice. They have no fear or objection to the use of technology, but they prefer to have a connection to the nature around them.

Their home world of Gio is located in the Mystic System, though Giants may be found throughout the Known Galaxy. They are renowned as noble people who prize loyalty and honor. A common belief among them is that all souls are reincarnated after death. They praise those who they consider Great Heroes'' and eagerly search for their reincarnations. For them the study of history is a holy act, leading to a practice of always having an extensive library in every Giant colony. Their devotion to record keeping has made them indispensable bureaucrats throughout the Known Galaxy.

There are three types of giants;

• Gray: This group commonly lives in the mountains and foothills of Gio. They posses gray, white and black fur with black skin underneath
  
• Brown: Found mostly on the beaches and near rivers and lakes on Gio. They have brown and blonde fur, with pink skin. Greys tend to grow larger than other types. They often have vestigial tails, but not always.
  
• Blue: Found on the snowy mountain tops and arctic areas of Gio. They have white fur and blue skin. Unlike other Giants, Blues have no fur on their faces, hands, or feet. They are the smallest of the Giants rarely growing over 8 feet

Females tend to be slightly larger than males.

They can be cloned, but will not willingly give over their genetic material as they believe that cloning splits the soul and prevents it from reincarnating after death.

GeeGe

Home World: Yorth, Interplanetary Republic 

Ascendancy date: 215-TISE

A green skinned Humanoid species notable for the fact that their brains are designed to house multiple personalities. With a minimum of three personalities for each mature GeeGe, each identity is specialized for a certain set of tasks that the GeeGe may have encountered. For example, there is usually a personality for socialization, one for intellectual pursuits, one who is tasked with safety. All the personalities are fully aware of each other and share all memories.

When speaking about themselves GeeGes will take great care to make it clear if they are talking about a single personality or all of them. For example: "I was thinking about " vs "We were thinking about "

Because of the accelerated growth of the cloning process, GeeGe clones are unable to properly develop their multiple personalities, which leads to extreme behavioral issues. Therefore, though they are biologically compatible with cloning they are generally not cloned.

 

Hanuu

Home World: Hanaa, Zing Empire

Ascendancy date: 9875-REE

A single species that is often mistaken for two distinct species. The two types of Hanuu are called 'Horned' and 'Green'. Both are humanoid. The Horned Hanuu could at first be mistaken for human, though slightly shorter. Aside from the height, Horned Hanuu will also have multiple spikes growing from various points on their skulls, sharp rows of teeth, and a long prehensile tongue. Green Hanuu are much taller, have hairless green skin, and possess a smaller second set of arms located midway down the torso.

Each Hanaa has the genetic make up of both types in them, meaning they have two separate genetic codes. However, shortly after conception one set of codes is selected at random to become dominant and the other turns dormant. Thus two Green parents can give birth to a Horned child and vice-versa.

After being contacted by the Rexxus Empire in 9875-REE the Hanaa began to build massive legacy ships to explore the universe. They are an intensely curious species that greatly values family and community. Their desire to explore and build community at the same time is considered by many historians to be what prevented their downfall. Since entering the Galactic community their home world (and the only world they have ever laid claim to) has been conquered no less than 37 times, and has been bought, sold or traded at least 426 times. Currently Hanaa is controlled by the Zing Empire. No Hanuu has set foot on the planet since the Great War Era.

Hanuu have several distinct practices and beliefs that have arisen from their unusual circumstances, all of which are recorded in their holy book The Practices . Of note is their dietary restrictions which forbids eating food prepared by wild heat or fire. Even when settled on primitive worlds they will use artificial heat sources rather than fire. They believe that one day the universe will ...be shaken to its core... and ...[the Hanuu] shall reclaim the ancestral world... .

Because of their dual genetic martial, cloning Hanuu is a complicated process. It is possible, but generally avoided.

 

Havaanans

Home World: Havaan, Techno Collective

Ascendancy date: N/A

Havaanans were a non-gendered race of bird-like humanoids who, in 985-SISE were wiped out by a fast moving and very deadly plague. They went extinct long before they were able to create interstellar travel, but not before creating self-replicating A.I.s which still last to this day.

Records indicate that though they reproduced sexually, they had no separate biological genders. Instead each carried organs allowing for both laying and fertilizing eggs. A single Hanaanan could, in theory, fertilize their own eggs and be a single parent, though their records indicate that this was frowned on as 'deviant behavior'.

They were cold-blooded and covered in bright feathers. Their society seemed strangely fixated on the particular color of one's feathers, with many feather dyeing services being advertised.

Their downfall has been attributed to their disinterest in both the micro and macro universe. They had no care for the microscopic, so when the plague hit they had to scramble to understand viruses and how to prevent them. Because they had no interest in space exploration Vrin's Law (that a species existing on a single world is 90 times more likely to go extinct than a multi-world species) took effect.

It is unknown if they are clone resistant as no viable bio samples have been unearthed.

Hiuminz

Home World: Urrth, Celestial Commonwealth

Ascendancy date: 1942-REE

     Since they first entered the galactic community, Hiuminz have often been mistaken for humans. In what can only be described as a statistical anomaly, Hiuminz independently evolved to be nearly identical to humans in every way. Their languages, culture, and even their genetic code is strikingly similar. Even the most well trained biologists have difficulty distinguishing the two species.

     However, Hiuminz and Humans are both able to identify each other at a glance. Humans describe Hiuminz as being unsettling and creepy , while Hiuminz describe Humans as unnerving and sickening to look at . Studies of their genetic makeup have confirmed that the two species are 100% compatible and could easily create offspring. Whenever making a Hiuminz/Human hybrid is suggested, however, the response from both species has been revulsion and occasional violent outbursts.

          Unlike their far spread cousins, Hiuminz have remained largely contained to their own small empire of roughly 50 star systems.

     Like Humans, Hiuminz are easy to clone, but their mutual discomfort of Humans seems to carry through the cloning process. Given the wide proliferation of Human clones, Hiuminz clones are generally not used, except as a cost saving measure.

Humans

Home World: Humas, Interplanetary Republic

Ascendancy date: 2000-PRE

Humans are the most widespread species in the galaxy. Intelligent tool builders, they are useful to many, and have both started and served under many empires. Most notable is their ability to endure. Humans are found to have the highest stamina of any species. Their ancient homeworld of Humas is found in the Republic.

Because of their physical strength, endurance, and low mutation rate humans are one of the most commonly cloned species.

 

Humanoids

Home World: N/A

Ascendancy date: N/A

Humanoids are found throughout the Known Galaxy and have evolved independently from each other in a variety of environments and times. They usually are found to walk upright on two legs, possess two or more manipulator limbs, and have a head containing a brain on top. There are many theories as to why this happens. The prevailing scientific theory is that the Humanoid form is simply the best structure for an intelligent creature, as it allows for more efficient movement, allowing more nutrients to feed the brain. The term Humanoid was established by the Rexxus Empire Census Office and is still used today.

 

Kotos

Home World: Endus, Techno Collective

Ascendancy date: 3-GWE

A small, intelligent four-legged species. They have taloned feet and a long tail (2x body length) that end in three prehensile prongs, which acts like a hand. Ear size, facial features and coloring can vary, but are usually hereditary.

They are intelligent enough to use tools and participate in the galactic community, but they seem to have no interest in creating their own technology. A curious nature has lead them to become researchers and explorers, but they despise being pigeonholed and will pursue anything that defies other's expectations of them. They are well known pranksters, but generally only prank in retaliation.

They are easy to clone, but given small size, and contrarian nature they are not very useful.

Kraag

Home World: Skuuld, Independent Systems

Ascendancy date: 899-TE

A primitive warrior race which has managed to steal and plunder their way into the galactic community. They are covered in fur, possess four arms and behooved feet, and have long necks and snouts. Natural weapons include sharp teeth, sharp antlers and a powerful muscular system.

They seem to be intelligent enough to operate most technology, but there is no evidence to prove that they can understand or even repair such things. The Kraag achieved ascendancy when a trading expedition, hoping to access Skuuld's lucrative ore deposits, made landfall and tried to contact the locals. The Kraags attacked, killed the crew and stole their ship. Over the next hundred years the Kraags gained more and more ships and weapons. Experts estimate that the current Kraag fleet consists of 12 light merchant ships, 60-70 small fighters of various models, 2 battlecruisers, and one heavily damaged Rexxus Dominator. They are extremely territorial and will destroy or capture any ship that enters their system.

Because of their aggressive nature, little is known about their society and culture.

No attempts have been made to clone them.

 

Kromahn

Home World: Kro, Zing Empire

Ascendancy date: 35-GWE

Parasitic creatures possessing three to five tentacles, a long, prehensile mouth, a single eye, and occasionally horns. When they attach to a host, their mouth drills into the host's body and attaches to the central nervous system, taking control of the body. This process always results in the host becoming brain dead. There are two types of Kromahn, Red and Blue. The Red Kromahn are red with black markings and possess a number of horns. They also represent the largest share of the population. Blue Kromahn have blue and white markings and almost never have horns.

The split between Reds and Blues occurred shortly after they ascended to the Galactic community, though the seeds of the schism were present long before that. The Blues felt that it was wrong for them to completely usurp their hosts as they did. The Reds, on the other hand, felt it was their right to Subdue the Lesser Scum . The Blues set out to find some way to co-exist with their hosts in a more symbiotic, less parasitic way. Years of separation eventually led to the difference in appearance.

Today Red Kromahns are loyal supporters of Emperor Zing, while the Blues still seek a way to harmlessly unify with a host. Reds will often select their hosts from slaves or prisoners of the Zing Empire, while Blues will only possess volunteers who are ready to end their lives.

Kromahns can be cloned, but as they cannot survive without a host, cloning is impractical except as a method of control.

 

Krooks

Home World: Thotho, Confederacy of Worlds

Ascendancy date: 95-GWE

The Krooks are a humanoid species known for their ability to catastrophically molt to match their environment. In most mild climates they look like a normal human. The changes are as follows;

• rainy: green skin, slimy membrane, sticky pads pads on hands and feet
  
• wet/underwater: webbed hand and feet, blueish-green skin, gills and fins
  
• heat, humid: covered in a moss-like substance, black eyes, sharp claws
  
• heat, dry: scaly, becomes cold-blooded,
  
• cold: Thick fluffy fur covers the entire body, color of fur varies, eyes are still visible
  
  
  

Krooks easily adapt to whatever society they live in. They are most commonly found in the Confederacy and Republic.

Krooks are not clone resistant, but they do possess a natural bullheadedness that makes them difficult to control as clones.

 

Magistrates

Home World: Billaahm, Confederacy of Worlds

Ascendancy date: apporx. 480-PRE

This particular breed of Humans is different from other breeds in that they have deliberately altered their genetics to become what they are today. The first Magistrates sought to be powerful rulers, and altered their genetics to emphasize what they felt were desirable traits and suppress the undesirable ones. This resulted in a race of narcissistic, paranoid, violent people, that hold to very few moral ideas. They are identifiable by their gold freckles and blonde hair.

Because they rarely trust their own kind, Magistrates have spread throughout the Galaxy. Still, in spite of their distrust, they often believe that all other races are inferior to them and will only mate with a fellow Magistrate. They will often seek out a group of people to rule, and will take control by whatever means are necessary. They will often rule as a family, but these situations will just as often devolve into cycles of backstabbing and betrayal.

Since they first appeared they have been a constant annoyance to all civilized corners of the Galaxy with Rexxus Regalus calling them The Punishment of the Gods .

Magistrates have no aversion to cloning and have been heads of many cloning operations. Despite this, they believe that cloning a Magistrate is a Perversion of their Perfect Selves''. Some cloners have been known to make Magistrate clones specifically out of spite.

 

Mandrans

Home World: Deep Warm, Celestial Commonwealth

Ascendancy date: 100-GWE

Mandrans are a plant-based humanoid species. Though they have no biological gender they often present themselves as male, female, or non-gendered. They are a resilient species known for their ability to survive on a variety of liquids, not just water.

Their appearance and size will vary according to the conditions under which they were born. A parent or group of parents will plant one or more seeds in the ground. The number of seeds varies wildly depending on soil conditions, with the highest recorded planting from a single parent being 4,563 seeds. The parent will then tend to the area, removing weeds and predators for the entire incubation period. The incubation also varies based on soil conditions, but is rarely shorter than eight weeks. Once incubation is complete the child will emerge on their own and live closely with their parent until the child feels they have reached maturity.

While their appearance does have a wide variance, commonly found traits are a thick skin and a leafy stalk emerging from the top of the head. Occasionally leaves and flowers will grow on the body, but they more often grow on the head.

Madrans are known as naturally curious and hard working people and not prone to violence. Though it is known that they make exceptional gamblers and mathematicians. Because of their impressive math skills they never had the need to develop computers. As such, they will often approach computers with skepticism, annoyance and/or confusion.

Contrary to common depictions in various media, Mandrans cannot instantly regrow limbs, control other plant life, or spontaneously grow vines. Vine growth of any kind is often indicative of poor health, usually caused by parasites. And while they can regrow limbs the process involves burying themselves for several days. Almost always the regrown limb is noticeably mismatched in size and/or color.

Cloning is easy, however, without a parent Mandran to oversee the incubation process the young usually die in incubation or shortly after. That, combined with the necessary land, makes cloning Mandrans financially impractical.

 

Micronoids

Home World: Hiranus, Interplanetary Republic

Ascendancy date: 4-REE

While not technically a sentient species or even a life form, Mirconoids play a vital, indispensable role in the galaxy. They were built shortly before the Rexxus era, but were perfected by Rexxus Empire scientists.

Micronoids are a type of self-replicating airborne nanobot, specifically built for three purposes.

1. Interface with the language center of the brain and directly translate for the host.
   
2. Enter the respiratory system to ensure the appropriate air molecules are being breathed in or filtered out.
   
3. Enhance the body's natural defenses to prevent alien bacteria from decimating entire populations.
   
   
   

While the Micronoids are not a complete solution (for example, their language translations can be a little odd at times, and they do not always recognize a hostile illness) they have mitigated many of the problems that plagued Pre-Rexxus inter-planetary societies. Some species require additional aids, such as rebreathers, but with Micronoids the failure of those aids no longer means instant death.

They are designed to fill any void they can find, meaning that they are found in the air of every connected world.

 

Moltos

Home World: Holok, Zing Empire

Ascendancy date: 350-TISE

The Moltos were a warrior race that existed in what is now the Zing Empire. After being conquered by a young Emperor Zing, they were conscripted into a vast slave army. Zing's brutal and aggressive war tactics lead to massive casualties, which were replaced by Molto clones. Currently no original Moltos remain. Their clones still serve Emperor Zing.

The Moltos were large, semi-humanoid people. Their entire bodies were covered in a thick, flexible shell, with a triangular opening on the head (for an eye), chest (mouth), and groin (sexual organ and  bodily waste). They originally were red, yellow, and orange in color, but Emperor Zing chose to only clone the red Moltos. Their thick arms end in three very dexterous tentacles.

They are intelligent and skilled at both building and using tools and weapons. They are capable of echolocation, allowing them to work in darkness, smoke, and other low visibility situations. They are capable of Standard Galactic Speech in a deep, gravely tone. But their preferred language is a deep rumbling that sounds like a growl.

Moltos are considered the perfect cloning species. A lack of mutations in the cloning process (approx. 0.000000001%) means that genetic material can be obtained by other clones with little worry of genetic deterioration.

 

Mordas

Home World: Gurrer, Zing Empire

Ascendancy date: 1982-PRE

Mordas are a humanoid warrior race known for their cunning and dishonesty. While most live as criminals, smugglers, pirates, and bounty hunters a few have risen to notable ranks, the most predominant being Emperor Zing. Mordas are distinguishable from humans by their short, pointed ears, sharp features, and notable longevity. Normally they can live up to 250 years. Emperor Zing is currently estimated at 345-300. It is believed that he has prolonged his youth by unnatural means.

Normally their social structure is divided into extremely territorial clans, headed by a chief or king. The chief is determined by a Challenge of Will , where one challenges the incumbent chief. After the initial challenge both parties have 24 hours to prepare in what ever way they wish. Then they have another 24 hours to attempt to kill each other by whatever means they wish. The victor receives the title of Chief or King. There are no known instances where both incumbent and challenger survives, but it is not uncommon for both to die. When both parties die, the first to claim the old chief's scepter is the new chief, and may be challenged for their title.

They are easy to clone, but with a natural disposition to defy and usurp leadership, cloning is limited. They are commonly found in the Zing Empire, but have many small enclaves throughout the Know Galaxy

 

Murebil Clones

Home World: Suneater, Independent System

Ascendancy date: 96-SSE

The Murebil clones are a unique anomaly in the Known Galaxy as there is no known record of any group quite like them. Their Prime (the individual from whom they were cloned) was a human male by the name of Haas Murebil. Haas was a respected and brutal warlord of the Zing Empire, and, following Zing tradition, commanded an army of clones. His mobile war machine, called Suneater, was a self-sustaining, planetoid sized ship.

At some point the clones overthrew and executed Hass Murebil, and escaped from the Zing Empire with the Suneater. It is unclear what caused the clones to rebel, or even how they managed to overcome their inhibitor devices. There is speculation the a Knight of Light named Moddii the Mad, was responsible. But even the existence of Moddii the Mad is uncertain (See Moddii the Mad entry; Groups and Individuals).

While Suneater was largely self-sufficient there were still certain materials that needed to be imported. Under Haas, that was achieved simply through conquering, collecting tribute, and raids. After the exodus the Murebil took an oath of non violence and traded manual labor for the needed materials. There are several excellent examples of Murebil construction throughout the Gap, most notably on the planet Graasa.

After obtaining their freedom the Murebil began to alter their onsite cloning facilities. Making changes to their biology with each new generation of clones. The known generations are as follows:

 

Gen 1: Original Haas Murebil, standard controls markings and age acceleration. Genetically sterile.

 

Gen 2: Inhibitor gland is removed and age acceleration is switched from a Type I (constant, high speed aging) to a Type III (rapid aging through adolescence, normal aging through adulthood). Face tattoo is altered in shape and placement

 

Gen 3: Changes unknown, suspected to be minor alterations to account for health issues resulting from deterioration of original genetic material. Face tattoo is altered in shape and size

 

Gen 4: Sterility removed. Genetic code is altered to be biologically capable of reproducing with a wide variety of humanoid species. Face tattoo is altered in shape, placement, and color

After Gen 4, Murebil society underwent a drastic change. They began to accept women as payment for their construction services. If clients choose, the Murebil would waive the normal fees and instead recruit local women to join them on Suneater. There were certain limitations, however. The women had to join of their own free will, be free of disease, be tested to ensure biological compatibility and ability to reproduce, and have no other obligations (IE. children, elderly parents, other dependents). Once approved the woman would be assigned a husband, receive a stipend, and live on the Suneater.

The Generation that resulted from this (called Gen 5) was naturally a biologically diverse one, carrying traits of most intelligent species. Cloning is still practiced using the Haas prime material but that is being phased out in favor of cloning the new Gen 5 stock.

Murebils are of particular interest to anthropologists because they have developed a unique culture of art, religion, and other forms of public expression almost entirely in a cultural vacuum.

 

The Mystics

Home World: Veerus II, Mystic System

Ascendancy date: 12-REE

The Mystics refers to both a species and the distinct subspecies that rules them. When a distinction is necessary between the two the ruling subspecies is often referred to as High-Mystics

Mystics are a humanoid species that come in a variety of colors. They do not have hair like most other humanoids, instead having either spines, head tails, tentacles, or a shell, depending on their subspecies.

Mystic subspecies are as follows:

• High-Mystics: the spiritual and political leaders of the Mystic System. They have head tails and tend to come in shades of greens and blues
  
• Warriors: The military class. They have spines and come in subdued greens, blacks, and browns. They also tend to be much larger and stronger than most other subspecies. They are usually tapped for military service, police, and guard duties.
  
• People of the Heart, or the Cores: The working class. This is the largest group. They have tentacles (fully functional and prehensile) and come in neon bright colors across the spectrum.
  
• Feeders: The Farming class. They have a shell and come in cold colors (blues, whites, grays). They are the smallest in size.
  
• Inquisitors: the Scientific class. They have head spines and come in warm colors (reds, oranges, yellows). They are the most intelligent.
  
  
  

Mystics are a highly spiritual species that rules and largely populates the Mystic system. While they do use and build technology for interplanetary travel and weapon augmentation, they tend to shun it in their daily lives, preferring to connect directly with the world around them.

They have many spiritual abilities that may or may not manifest in the following ways:

• prophetic dreams or visions
  
• healing
  
• self levitation (usually while meditating)
  
• unnaturally perceptive
  
• Elemental manipulation
  
  
  

While those traits manifest more commonly and more powerfully in High-Mystics they are found in all the subspecies. Non-High-Mystics who show these abilities are called Adepts and are often recruited and trained by the High-Mystics, and given oversight positions in the government and military, or called as peacekeepers and diplomats.

Though they can easily understand many languages and speech patterns they often have difficulty speaking them, when they are able to speak it is with a thick accent.

They are easy to clone, but cloning is outlawed in the Mystic System, being considered a form of slavery. Cloning a mystic is considered an act of war by the High-Mystics.

 

Paranoks

Home world: Paranoctorne, Zing Empire

Ascendancy date: 46-SISE

Three eyed humanoids with a purple skin tint and black markings. This species is entirely nocturnal. They are also naturally very paranoid. That paranoia causes them to think of the ways any endeavor can go wrong and makes them very valuable administrators and planners. They also tend to act as the bureaucrats of the Zing Empire.

Of note is their strange religious traditions built around several obelisks found on their home world of Paranoctorne. Attempts at studying the obelisks have resulted in several unexplained phenomenons, including equipment failure, false reading, animal corpses falling from the sky, a blood-like substance oozing from the ground, screaming from an unidentifiable source, the obelisks and/or researchers vanishing without a trace, etc..

It's believed that the Paranoks have a species wide hive mind that operates on a subconscious level. Possibly this hive mind was meant as an early warning system for small tribes, but as the population grew, it became more and more likely that at least one Paranok felt afraid and was broadcasting that feeling to the entire population, resulting in a general feeling of anxiety and unease.

Genetically there is no reason why the Paranoks cannot be cloned. However, cloners have observed that accelerated growth results in dangerous, erratic behavior, so they are not generally cloned.

 

People of the Void

Home World: Unknown

Ascendancy date: Estimated 3000-PRE

A secretive and secluded race of people living in the space between star systems. They are the most technologically advanced species in the Know Galaxy, capable of phase shifting their ships (allowing both matter and energy to pass through them), completely cloaking their presence, and possessing weapons that can atomize anything but a Tardii. They are obsessed with keeping the Void pure , and are believed to worship nothingness.

Their existence allows for safe faster than light travel in that empty space. According to legend many millennia ago a space faring species sent out teams to clear paths between systems to prevent light speed collisions with space debris. Their home world was destroyed, leaving the void cleaners to carry out their duty, and slowly sink into madness. The People of the Void are mostly harmless, and have no interest in the other systems, until someone litters in the void. With fanatic zealotry they will appear and atomize any who dare sully the void . Little is known of their government, or if they even have one.

Their appearance is a mystery as they never leave their egg shaped ships. The only communications with them have been brief encounters by stranded spaceships were they demand that the ship move on or Become the Void

No efforts have been made to clone them.

 

Phobots

Home World:Phobos, Independent Systems

Ascendancy date: 77-GWE

Phobos is an extremely hostile environment. The weather patterns are violent and unpredictable, it is surrounded by clouds of various poisonous gasses, and populated by vicious, bloodthirsty creatures. Phobots have adapted to live what is often called a Death World .

Phobots are gray skinned humanoids, with pointed ears, sharp teeth, slender bodies and possessing no hair. Their heightened senses are unmatched.

In spite of the dangers of their home world, Phobots have never successfully colonized another. This is not from lack of trying or disinterest in expanding. Rather it is a matter of their peculiar biology. Due to the radiation and gravitational forces on Phobos, Phobots do not age. While they still can be (and often are) killed by injury and disease, they do not suffer the cellular breakdown of old age. Once they leave the planet, however, it starts their biological clock ticking. Within hours they become infertile, and within a decade will succumb to age. Returning to the planet does not stop the aging process.

Phobots can be cloned but have short lifespans, even by clone standards.

 

Pilgs

Home World: Reelan, Techno Collective

Ascendancy date: 2000-PRE

Farm creatures raised originally by the Dwella. They are the largest source of food in the Known Galaxy. Pilgs are asexual, non-intelligent creatures that reproduce by budding. They have four legs placed around a large, round body. Their flesh is extremely nutrient rich as is the milk they secrete from rows of glands around their body..

They are very easy to clone, but due to a short gestation period, cloning is often unnecessary.

 

Plotow

Home World: Plo Minor, Independent System

Ascendancy date: 2056-SISE

An amphibious, dark skinned species. Humanoid save for their heads which are shaped like a large saucer with glowing eyes set far apart. Their mouths are located on the top of the head. They are capable of speech but do not use their mouth to do so. Instead they vibrate an organ unique to their species located in the upper neck.

They can be cloned but they are somewhat aggressive and territorial, so application of their clone labor is limited.

 

Polypsa

Home World: Kry'n'fr, Zing Empire

Ascendancy date: 4640-SISE

A race of amphibious, tentacled humanoids. They have blue skin and fully functional tentacles all over their bodies, with the longest ones (not counting their 4 limbs) being clustered on the face.

The Polypsa are renowned for their ambition and drive throughout the Known Galaxy. They were a major driving force behind the establishment of the Trade Era. Their ambition, however, does not just manifest in trade. Polypsa have proven their competency in matters of politics, war, philosophy, economics, and other fields. In short, if a Polypsa wishes to excel in a field, they probably will. This has led them to be highly sought after as advisors and administrators. But it has also led them to have a very low opinion of other species. Polypsa are notoriously xenophobic and racist.

They have no concept of an afterlife and that is a factor in their desire for notoriety. History is the only version of immortality that Polypsa accept.

One peculiarity of this species is that their population is incapable of growing beyond a certain number (approx. 78,000,000). This is because of their method of reproduction. Like many aquatic species, the female will lay eggs underwater and the males will fertilize them. However, Polypsa embryos can only be properly nourished in the breeding grounds of their home world. Three times each planetary year, a random selection of females and males will follow an instinctive urge to return to the breeding grounds. Once there the males will begin fighting with each other to establish a 'pecking order'. Females will enter the breeding grounds and lay as many eggs as possible, aggressively taking up as much real estate as possible. Once all possible surfaces of the breeding grounds are covered, the females will abandon their eggs for good and the males will begin fertilizing according to the pecking order they have established. Once that is done the males will also abandon the eggs.

Polypsa polliwogs mature quickly, reaching full adulthood within weeks. As polliwogs they have no limbs and have not yet developed their skeletal structures. They will be extremely aggressive, attacking and eating anything they perceive as a threat, in some cases including each other. Once the cartilage that makes up their skeleton solidifies, they will breach the surface and begin their adult lives.

While it is possible to artificially replicate the breeding grounds, the Polypsa have been reluctant to do so because they feel it will Increase the competition.

They are easy to clone, but given their early nutritional needs and lifelong aggression they make unprofitable clone labor.

 

Primitives

Home World: Good Land Under The Hot Sun, Independent Systems

Ascendancy date: 256-SSE

Primitives are gray skinned, fur covered humanoids that are known to wrap their entire bodies in brightly colored, cloth-like moss, native to their home world. They possess a child-like disposition and are known to be very friendly and trusting.

A colony ship was the first to encounter this peculiar species after landing, unknowingly on their home world. Primitives are so called because they, as a general rule, lacked even the most basic forms of technology, including fire, the wheel, basic farming practices, etc. In spite of these limitations the Primitives seem to have an oral tradition which tells of The Great Star Fliers . Their stories also accurately describe unique ecosystems of worlds throughout the Galaxy, some of which collapsed and disappeared thousands of years ago. It is currently unknown how they gained these stories.

When the Primitives first encountered star ships they immediately began attempts to barter with carved bones and seashells for passage, though they could not name any specific destination. Those ships that agreed to take them on would eventually claim that their Primitives were lucky charms that led to increased profits and opportunities. Fellow travelers also report that when a Primitive becomes sufficiently upset (which is very rare), they will perform a Curse Dance directed at the object or person that has upset them. Reports claim that the target will soon after experience a noticeably higher rate of misfortune and accidents. Further research is needed to determine if there is any truth to these claims.

Curiously, when word of the Primitives reached the Celestials, they sent delegations to all major governments and powers in the area to lobby for kind treatment of the Primitives. No Celestial has been available to give comment on this unusual response.

No successful attempts at cloning a Primitive have been made yet.

 

Red Star

Home World: Koa-ai-a-toa, Mystic System

Ascendancy date: 450-TE

The Red Star are a biologically diverse species bound together by a strong moral philosophy and culture. Red Stars are a warrior race and normally humanoid, though some variants are not unheard of. When a Red Star is defeated in battle they will attempt to obtain genetic material of the one who defeated them. Then, using technology unique to them, they will use that genetic code as a template to alter their own genes, giving themselves whatever traits they feel are most impressive. They call this process Consuming the Essence

When an opponent is defeated, however, Red Stars do not consume the essence of the loser. Instead they will often take their opponent's weapon or armor either as a trophy or for future use. Red Stars believe it is extremely dishonorable to fight anything that does not have some type of weapon, natural or otherwise.

There is a very detailed Code of Combat that they live by. Consisting of 698 rules, the Code details under what circumstances one should and shouldn't fight, how one should conduct themselves in a fight, and how one should handle their victory or defeat. The Code is taught at a young age and a Red Star can only be considered an adult when they have memorized and can recite the entire Code, verbatim.

The code also has detailed rules for how to treat each other, which further distances them from other warrior races. For example, the Code calls for the fair and gentle treatment of those with disabilities. Great lengths are taken to ensure that those with injuries or birth defects can still live unencumbered lives.

Their technology also differs greatly, not only from other warrior races but also from the galactic standard. They utilize organically grown ships that resemble massive trees. Nearly all of their technology (aside from what is taken from fallen foes) is grown organically.

In another deviation, Red Stars are vegetarian but prefer to only eat chemically produced nutrients. Explanations for this behavior revolve around the Code's prohibition on eating defeated foes or enslaving them, thus preventing any sort of hunting or domestication. They avoid eating live vegetation as that technically qualifies as attacking a foe who cannot fight back, which the code also prohibits.

Historians have found that the Red Star were, prior to their discovery of space travel, largely indistinguishable from other warrior races. Fractured society, carnivorous diet, strong hunting culture and environmentally disastrous industry are considered the main hallmarks of a warrior race (according to the Rexxus Empire Census Office). The Code of Combat seems to have been introduced as a way of saving their society from itself, allowing them to work out their natural aggression in controlled, productive ways.

Many Red Star cells exist off-world and are close, tight-knit communities, where each member works to contribute whatever they can to the cell.

Red Stars do still conquer other worlds, however they are very selective in what worlds they choose. All choices are made according to The Code. Often their targets are worlds already ruled by tyrants or warlords, or worlds that are already on the brink of crisis caused by a lack of central leadership. Generally, the rule is to ask Will these people be better off if we were their masters?

From their genetic code it is assumed that Red Stars are easy to clone, however all efforts have failed, often catastrophically. This has led some cloners to jokingly refer to a bad luck gene that causes clone vats to fail.

 

Rexxus Humans

Home World: Hiranus, Interplanetary Republic

Ascendancy date: 1000-PRE

Descendants of the Rexxus Empire that conquered most of the Known Galaxy. Anatomically they are human with minor cosmetic differences. Skin tones tend to be darker, hair color is green, gold, or blue, and eyes are either green, gold or red (some are able to change that color at will).

Originally this breed appeared on Hiranus, the home world of Rexxus Regalus. However centuries of intermingling and assimilation have made their presence only a memory both on Hiranus and elsewhere.

The only exception is in the Prima-Sol system, which, due to its planned isolation, still maintains a robust community, which includes the descendants of Rexxus Regalus himself.

Other differences between other humans include a less combative, more peacemaking attitude (whether a function of genetics of culture is unknown), an increased likelihood of producing hybrid children with other species (which contributed to their disappearance on Hiranus), and the ability of some to change eye color at will.

They can be cloned just as easily as any other human, but due to the scarcity of source material, Rexxus Human clones are rare.

 

Rippins

Home World: Ripp, The Techno Collective

Ascendancy date: 274-TISE

The Rippins are thickly built humanoids who's skin is formed of a natural occurring metallic mesh. They are often referred to as the 'Happy Warriors' of the Galaxy. Though they are technically a warrior race, because of the sturdy, yet flexible nature of their bodies, their wars have rarely resulted in the loss of Rippin life.

Nearly all Rippins are possessed of a jovial, friendly nature, and they seem to consider combat as a form of play. Given their near invulnerability, this is reasonable.

Males and females are indistinguishable to nearly all eyes except their own. They are extremely sociable. Wherever they settle, they will build a Feast Hall , where they will share meals, and entertain each other with songs and feats of strength.

Rippins will shed their skin when they outgrow it, leading to four sheddings throughout their lifetime. Because of its flexible metallic properties, Rippin skin is extremely valuable. However, to the Rippins, a shed skin is very sacred and is proudly displayed on the walls of the Feast Hall.

Rippins are extreme omnivores and will eat not only plants and animals, but also soil. Though their jaws are not powerful enough to chew rocks, they are capable of digesting them if swallowed.

They are clone resistant as the cloning process tends to cause catastrophic irregularities in their metallic skin.

 

Soloqs

Home World: Solq, Confederacy of Worlds

Ascendancy date: 5056-REE

Soloqs are shape shifters. Their preferred, natural form is a blue skinned humanoid one. They are incapable of perfectly replicating another individual, but they are able to translate themselves into other species. The closer that species is to their own default the less skill the transformation takes. Some species are simply too different to mimic. Examples include Celestials, Tardigradians, Davin of Dav, Bubbolions, etc.

Soloqs are found throughout the Known Galaxy, though their home world Solq is in the Confederate System. Soloqs often live among and will even successfully mate with the natives of other planets. Their children, though they have only one Soloq parent, are fully Soloq. They may be unaware of this until well into adulthood.

Strangely Soloqs are very clone resistant. It's believed that this is because their genetic code is naturally unstable, and therefore not reliable clone material.

 

Tardigradians (Tardiis)

Home World: (assumed) Tardigrad, Independent System

Ascendancy date: 16-TE

Tardigradians or Tardiis , as they are commonly called, are one of the most resilient sentient species in the seven systems. They stand about four and a half feet tall. They walk upright and have eight limbs, four for walking and four manipulators situated around their torso. Their mouth is the only hole on their body, which some mistake for an eye. It is unclear how or even if they see or defecate. They are capable several types of speech, but seem to have no need of speech among their own species.

Tardiis are nearly indestructible, having been shown to be able to withstand laser fire, slug fire, extreme heat and cold, radiation, poison, high gravity, low gravity, space vacuum, heavy atmosphere, blunt force, sharp objects, etc.. In extreme situations (IE. when no food is available) Tardiis will enter a hibernation state that is indistinguishable from death. It has been determined that they have no concept of the following ideas: Death, violence, war, conflict, attack, defense, property, conservation, and the color orange (oddly enough they have concepts of all colors other than orange). They do understand bartering to a degree, which has allowed them to make deals to travel on ships as 'living garbage disposals'.

Tardiis were first encountered on the dead world Tardigrad. Tara-forming efforts awoke the Tardiis from their hibernation states. The Tardiis quickly began to devour anything they could, leading to conflicts with the colonists. The colonists soon learned, however, that the Tardiis had only one concern: food. As long as they were fed, they caused no problems. So, the Tardigrad Waste Collective (TWC) was established by the colonists. For a fee, the TWC will collect waste, toxic or otherwise, and dump it on the planet for consumption by the Tadriis.

Many groups have attempted and failed to use the Tardiis as a fighting force. All efforts at militarization have ended in failure, as Tardiis have no desire or even a concept of conflict. Many famous failures have led to the saying Giving guns to Tardiis as a way of saying that a course of action is fruitless. Tardii Guns is a phrase for a useless object.

Upon the discovery of Tardiis it is reported that a Celestial named Gahden Ahden noticed with surprise that those forgotten children'' were found in that sector. No further explanation has been obtained.

Tardiis are Clone Resistant, as there is no determinable way to collect genetic material from them.

Technas

Home World: Yaggan XII, Techno Collective

Ascendancy date: 988-TE

Technas are bacteria colonies that live in machinery and computer circuitry. The colonies each have their own personalities and operate as single beings. They use machines as shells and control and operate the machines on a microscopic level. Each adult colony functions as a brain. Damage to the colony has results similar to brain damage. While individual bacteria reproduce through cell division, new colonies (and therefore new individuals) are born through a process called 'Sporeing'. Specialized 'scout cells' seek out and prepare a space suitable for growth. Once found the scouts sanitize the area and begin producing a nutrient rich chemical to coat the area creating a nursery. Then a message is sent out to the nearest colony which then transfers a small portion of itself in the nursery, where it begins to grow.

Originally Yaggan XII was a trash planet, created entirely of discarded waste and machinery from over 2,000 different worlds. The Technas, after evolving to their modern state, began to repurpose the machines to be bodies for themselves and through reverse engineering, developed their own interstellar travel. Shortly after, they formally claimed Yaggan XII as their own, halted all dumping there, and began to stabilize the ecosystem. Yaggan XII is now known as a pristine, beautiful world of art and culture. A moon has been built around it to act as a reservation for any and all endangered species throughout the Known Galaxy, which is only one of the numerous conservation efforts made by the Technas.

Though their first 'bodies' were made of trash, modern Technas have made very specialized forms that not only have control systems more conducive to their microscopic selves, but can also be switched out when they outgrow them.

They were one of the driving forces behind the creation of the Techno Collective, and are known for their fairness and compassion towards marginalized people.

Though they are bacteria, Technas are known to be very clean and tidy creatures. Often they will refer to other, more primitive bacteria as 'wild animals'.

They can be cloned easily, but given the impracticality of fitting them with control devices (biological or otherwise) it is not profitable.

 

Trootins

Home World: Ollpa, Mystic System

Ascendancy date: 2056-REE

Originally mistaken for plant life, the Trootins are tree-like sentient creatures, and perhaps the largest hive mind in the Known Galaxy. All Trootins, even when separated by entire star systems, are capable of immediate conversation. Their bodies are made of a spongy substance that can contract and harden when needed. They are extremely intelligent and were able to learn the written language of the early settlers of Ollpa in a matter of minutes.

By writing in the soil around them they were able to convince the settlers to spread their seeds throughout the Known Galaxy. Today they exist on, by their own count, 9876 different worlds.

Trootins can be cloned, but due to their stationary nature they are not useful for clone labor.

 

Unita

Home world: Brixx-on-the-Star-Path, Celestial Commonwealth

Ascendancy date: 20-REE

The Unita cannot live without a symbiotic host. Unlike most parasitic/symbiotic creatures, the Unita reproduction cycle is very slow and limited. They lay at most three eggs in their lifetime and only one egg at a time. The egg is intended to be ingested by the host. Once in the host body it will hatch and the baby Unita will travel throughout the host body until it finds a place to incubate. Once the incubation process begins it can take 15-20 years to complete. During that time the Unita's genetics change to match the host and they will integrate with and in most cases improve the existing bio systems. The Unita may grow back up organs or wire itself directly into the host's organs to increase efficiency and output. During this time the host, though potentially unaware of the Unita, will find their health and physical abilities greatly increased.

At the end of the gestation period the Unita will begin to manifest on the skin, first appearing as a slightly discolored lump, eventually growing into a form that is capable of communication, often a face, but not always. The Unita's personality often reflects the inner thoughts of their host, rather than their outward personality.

Cloning Unita is possible, but only when the genetic material is obtained shortly after they hatch. This makes cloning impractical.

Veritas

Home world: Biaancus, Independent Systems

Ascendancy date: 862-PRE

Humanoids who managed to escape their home world using mainly their own natural abilities.

Veritas are green skinned humanoids with a distinct metallic growth protruding from their heads. This growth is similar to a tuning fork in that it vibrates at a single frequency.

Veritas are capable of 'vibrating at a higher plane'. With practice they can achieve just the right frequency to teleport themselves. Early in their development, individuals who mastered this skill would unwittingly teleport themselves to uninhabitable worlds and die. In time they were able to build powerful telescopes and environmental suits to arrive at more suitable worlds and survive their arrival.

Veritas are well known for their serine, calm natures, and only become agitated by certain 'Vibrations' that only they can sense.

In addition to teleportation a well practiced Veritas can also pass through solid matter and render themselves invisible to most species' eyes.

It is a common misconception that all Veritas are named Veritas . In their language Veritas literally means The one(s) known as . The confusion comes from the fact that their actual names are spoken in a very low frequency hum that most creatures in the Known Universe cannot perceive.

Cloning is possible but it is important to a child's development that they encounter a very specific set of frequencies that are very difficult to recreate artificially. Because of this, cloning is impractical.

 

Winks

Home world: Appas, Zing Empire

Ascendancy date: approx. 250-SSE

Despite their very recent entry into the galactic community, very little is known about the history of this race. The lack of information has been attributed to a combination of the oppressive conditions within the Zing Empire and this species's inability to communicate in traditional ways.

Winks are named such due to their single, large eye, which takes up most of their spherical bodies. Around their bodies are dozens of retractable polyps which are used for mobility and as manipulators. Winks are covered in brightly colored fur believed to warn predators of their extremely poisonous flesh. Observers believe there is no limit to the spectrum of their fur color but they also report that Winks will remain a single solid color.

Winks seem to communicate with each other using their own unique body language, but they are intelligent and capable of understanding speech, as demonstrated by the fact that they are often conscripted as household servants to the wealthy of the Zing Empire.

It is believed that sometime between 243 and 254 SSE an unidentified Zing Warlord made contact with the natives of Appas and began to sell the Winks into slavery. It has been observed that Winks were intelligent, but primitive at the time of their contact.

Due to the Zing slave trade, Winks are found throughout the Zing Empire, however some small groups have managed to escape to refugee camps in both the Mystic System and the Techno Collective. Observers report that Winks have not displayed any sort of societal hierarchy, instead moving in herds over a relatively small area and communally making decisions and crafting tools and shelters as needed. The refugee herds have made crude weapons with which to defend themselves, however it seems that this sort of defensive tool building in a new development.

They have not been shown to need food or water and instead draw energy by generating static electricity in their fur.

There have been no known attempts to clone them.

 

Zenyada

Home world: Fulcrum

Ascendancy Date: 3032-SISE

The Zenyada are statistically the wealthiest species in the Known Galaxy. Their wealth is attributed to both their natural business acumen and their skin. The Zenyada's skin is made of a delicate porcelain material that produced pearl-like growths. These pearls are valuable both as jewelry and, when properly polished, can be used in weapons and FTL engines. Harvesting and selling their pearls became a very lucrative intergalactic business, allowing them to turn their home world of Fulcrum into the trade capital of the Galaxy.

Physically, the Zenyada are humanoid and relatively weak. Their faces look human at a glance, but all the features, eyes, nose, mouth, ears, are all vestigial and decorative. In spite of this, they possess alternative organs that perform all the same functions. Their skin is capable of sensing light and sound. Their diet is entirely liquid, absorbing nutrients through osmosis.

Theoretically they can be cloned, but any attempts at such are aggressively shut down by the Zenyada themselves through lawsuits, trade embargoes, or aggressive buyouts. Cloning businesses self-regulate to prevent Zenyada retaliation.