"Appendix of Species" by Joshua Price

Anixians

Homeworld: Ontulee (100%) This value indicates the percentage of the population that still lives on their homeworld, rounded to the tenth decimal. These values should typically be considered as very rough estimates, as I don't have any actual population figures as of the writing of this.

Average Height: 5'6 (9'11 when on two legs)

Average Weight: 452 lb.

Average Longevity: 32 years

Preferred Habitat: Warm, arid, caves

The anixian species resembles that of giant ants capable of being bipedal or hexpedal. Each leg has six small, finger-like appendages that can be utilized like fingers. Their exterior bodies are protected by a strong, chitinous exoskeleton that allows them to easily endure the harsh, arid environment of Ontulee. Though hive-minded, they are sentient and have intelligence believed to match that of the average human. They typically dwell underground in large, massive hives filled with twisting tunnels. Unlike most species, select members of their kind, dubbed queens by scientists due to their similar function as that in most insect societies, handle the production of young, laying a large number of eggs daily.

It is believed that the anixians were one of first (still surviving) species enslaved by the Inix Empire. Vanolian scientists discovered that the anixians maintain their hive-minded state in a method very similar to radio waves. A device was developed that would interfere with this communication and instead broadcast their orders. As a result, they serve their vanolian masters both unquestiongly and unknowningly, though the latter is up for debate. They have no natural magical energy within their bodies, but were showing signs of developing primitive technology before they were dominated.

Dinari

Homeworld: Mareus (4.3%)

Average Height: 5'10

Average Weight: 224 lbs.

Average Longevity: 77 years

Preferred Habitat: Cold, mountainous

Dinari are anthropomorphized, bipedal, wolves. Their appearance bears striking similarities to werewolves. Hence, initial contact with them and outsiders contained much misunderstanding and occasional violence. However, as the rest of the galaxy lost their ignorance about and learned that dinari have a far larger population than all types of therianthropes combined, such misunderstandings have become rare. Though, like werewolves, they have claws and a tail that goes anywhere from knees to ankles, most people are able to identify them apart from the diseased look-alikes by noting the lack of digitigrade legs, differences in posture, and the large variety of coloration in their fur. Though they may resemble "normal" colors for a wolf (which can vary between worlds), they have a few not seen in any other species, such as light blue and bright pink. Dinari females are also much more readily separated from werewolves by the inclusion of hair on their heads (that matches their fur color) similar to that of humans, elves, and other species, which werewolves lack. Dinari have also become well known for their sense of hearing and smell, often attributed as the best among all known species. However, their sight is lacking due to dependence on the aforementioned senses.

The dinari are known to live in relatively harsh conditions comfortably, preferring temperatures between around 30 degrees F and -10 degrees F, which has been equated to the range of 70 degrees and 30 degrees for humans. Of course, they can survive in temperatures as high as 60 degrees and as low as -50 degrees with some discomfort (again, 100 degrees and -10 degrees° when compared to humans). Their preference of rugged, mountainous areas has resulted in higher athleticism on average when compared to other species, especially in the areas of strength and endurance.

When they were first encountered by civilized society roughly 800 years ago, dinari society was a primitive tribal system developed around strong shamanistic beliefs, much of which was backed up by actual magic. A group of moashi from the Quen'Lu, the precursor to the Nor'Re'De, were the first to discover them when exploring worlds beyond the immediate fringe of star systems surrounding their own. Initial interactions nearly resulted in hostility on several occasions, believed to be due to misunderstandings. Fortunately, things smoothed out and moashi began to trade secrets of technology for dinari magic. A few hundred years later, the dinari's population had exploded and became unified under various groups with economic intentions that would all eventually merge to form the Dinari Trade Federation, or D.T.F. for short. Due to the fact that it is more of an economic, corporate entity than a political one, many citizens are not as loyal as they otherwise would be, leaving only 45% of the dinari's population still within the D.T.F, leaving them not uncommon elsewhere in the galaxy. Also interesting of note, despite their quick development into civilized society, they still retain some of their primitive customs. For example, due to a strong territorial trait, it is still legal in the D.T.F. to attack an individual for coming onto your property without any additional provocation.

Dwarves

Homeworld: Rhydin (27.4%)

Average Height: 4'6

Average Weight: 213 lb.

Average Longevity: 76 years

Preferred Habitat: Temperate, mountainous

The members of the dwarven species are typically short and stocky, often described as a bunch of muscles compressed into a small body (though not all dwarves are muscular). The pigmentation of the skin is similar to that of the human species, but their hair differs. Rather than brown, black, and blonde being common, red, orange, and shades thereof are the norm. The dwarven physique, unlike most species, is often heavy set and wide, giving them a larger girth than would otherwise be typical for their size. As a result, dwarves are usually stronger than other species, assuming the dwarf in question is not leading a sedentary lifestyle. This is a fairly common occurrence due to the fact dwarves seem to be born with a mild addiction and tolerance to alcohol. It's debatable whether this is natural or the result of many pregnant dwarven women consuming alcoholic beverages.

Dwarves are known to spend quite a bit of time underground, enough to be misconceived as a naturally subterranean species. However, this is not the case. Dwarven eyes more easily pick up light when there is often little, allowing them to see better in a dark environment then normal. However, this has the impact of occasionally making the outdoors a bit too bright for their liking, leading to partial blindness and ocular irritation when spending too much time in the sunlight or in bright artificially lit environments.

It is believed that, having the most interest in technology of the three species on Rhydin, the dwarves were the closest to reaching the space age before contact was made by the Colonial States of Sirius, one of the several nations that arose during Earth's expansion to the stars. Reports indicate that technology was equivalent to United States of America and other first world countries on Earth in the early 1900's. Contact with the space-faring nation was initially peaceful, but grew increasingly hostile as Sirius decided it needed more easily inhabitable territory. A brief war followed, resulting in Rhydin's loss and domination by the C.S.S. However, a decade later Sirius was forced to unconditionally surrender in a military conflict and yield all territory to the newly formed United Federation of Earth and dissolve their government, resulting in Rhydin's admittance to the U.F.E. As a result of both events, dwarves can be found throughout the galaxy, but are primarily concentrated within U.F.E. borders.

Elves

Homeworld: Rhydin (38.9%)

Average Height: 5'10

Average Weight: 150 lb.

Average Longevity: 185 years

Preferred Habitat: Temperate, forest

Your average elf bears a striking similarity to the human species in terms of physical appearance. However, there are enough visual differences that one can easily identify the subject in question as an elf instead of a human (or vice versa). Elves are taller and typically slimmer, though are perfectly capable of becoming fat from overeating, and usually have less muscle mass than a human. The coloration of their skin is also less varied, particularly lacking in the darker shades that humans may have. However, their most defining feature is their long pointed ears, something that is unique among all known intelligent species.

Elves are considered frail and physically weak when compared to most other denizens of the galaxy. Pound for pound, elves are simply not capable of lighting as much weight or enduring as much punishment as most others could. However, in terms of eye sight, they are superior to the norm. Their vision has been found to be at about 20/14, which means they can see at 20 feet what others must be at 14 feet to see. As a result, elves are excellent snipers and artists, among other trades, should they choose to pursue them. Additionally, elves have exceptional hearing, but it is not as good as some other species, such as the Dinari.

Like the dwarves, the elves lived on Rhydin. Of the three species dwelling on that world, the third being the orcs, they were the the least advanced when discovered, bearing technology equivalent to the middle 1700's when compared to the U.S.A. on Earth. Their magical development, however, far exceeded their technological development and appeared to have sufficiently made up for it on Rhydin. However, when the Colonial States of Sirius invaded, it proved to not be able to match the C.S.S.' firepower. However, as indicated by reports of "strange powers", it did seem to have a negative impact on the morale of the Colonial soldiers. In this day and age, elves have the largest population on Rhydin, making up over 50% due to a large number of orcs and dwarves leaving for one reason or another. Outside of the world, however, they only make up mere minorities in most other populations.

Eelemas (pronounced Ee-lem-uh)

Homeworld: Zetra (42.4%)

Average Height: 5'3

Average Weight: 132 lb.

Average Longevity: 94 years

Preferred Habitat: Cool, moist, hilly

In terms of basic body structure, the eelema look extremely similar to humans. However, the most glaring difference lays in their skin pigmentation. Their color is an odd mix of brown and orange with a hint of gray thrown in for good measure. Their hair takes on various tones of gray, sometimes white, but never black. Eelema are also noticeable for lacking any sort of fingernail or claw, but having pointed fingers that, at a very quick glance, might look sharp (but aren't). Their internal physiology is also quite different, such as the heart being located on the right, having a higher metabolic rate than typical for their body size and level of activity, and, most notably, the complete and total lack of magical energy. Unlike most species, the eelema have the inability to store or utilize magical energy. Given that scientific studies into the nature of magic are still in fledgling stages, the exact reasons behind this remains unclear, though many theories, often wild, exist. However, they are fully affected by the effects magic.

The eelema were one of the species enslaved by the Inix Empire, primarily in it's northern fringe. The majority have been freed when the U.F.E. and Phoenix Dominion launched a successful coordinated strike on Zetra, leading for the formation of the Liberation Army, a resistance movement against the Inix Empire. The vanolians seemed to have been first attracted to dominating them after witnessing their amazing feats of engineering. The most impressive were spacecraft consisting of a steel frame and wooden hull. While considerably frail and making for some extremely poor spacecraft, they are known as the most primitive space going vessels and thus leading to the widely accepted belief that they reached the space age unassisted proportionally faster than any other species did or would have. However, it is speculated that the tyreki possibly had a shot at surpassing them thanks to the natural resources of their homeworld.

Gnomes

Homeworld: Dromie (99%)

Average Height: 3'5

Average Weight: 67 lb.

Average Longevity; 56 years

Preferred Habitat: Warm, dry, plains

Gnomes are tied for being the shortest species, but are only second for smallest due to their weight. Some have stated humorously stated they look like midgets who live in a basement in the middle of nowhere due to their pasty white skin and the fact that they are universally considered quite ugly. Their slightly stout structure for their size have led to some theories suggesting they might be related to dwarves. However, comparative genetic research strongly suggests that this is not the case, as the two species do not even have the same number of chromosomes.

When Dromie was first discovered, the gnomes were found to be quite far behind in development with metal seeming to have only been utilized in the last century. Studies from those removed from Dromie indicate that, while gnomes do have an average intelligence, lack imagination and creativity. It is speculated that this is why they are so backwater and also that all of their innovations have resulted from trial and error or pure coincidence. Presently, due to Dromie's distant location compared to the civilized nations, it has yet to be settled. As a result, gnomes are an extremely rare sight in the galaxy with most denizens not even knowing they exist.

Goblins

Homeworld: Sorah (73.4%)

Average Height: 3'5

Average Weight: 45 lb.

Average Longevity: 47 years

Preferred Habitat: Warm, fores

The goblin species is the smallest one in the galaxy. While tied for gnomes with height, their stature is noticeably smaller. As a result, they are also the most physical frail species, incapable of lifting much or enduring much physical exertion. In their appearance, goblins typically have green skin and no hair, though other skin colors have been witnessed, though such instances are quite rare. Goblins are also known to be quite cunning. Some tests have pitted clever goblins against professionals in various strategic simulations, such as war games and chess, yielding results that confirm this theory. It is also interesting to note reports state that during one of these tests a goblin's clever strategies in one of the simulations made a seasoned general cry in frustration. This is, however, unconfirmed. It is speculated that, if it is true, the general won't admit it to save face.

It is believed that goblins are a young species. While they quite clearly have the capability of reaching the space age unassisted within a reasonable time span, their development is too far behind to suggest they've been around as long as others. However, recent incorporation into the Dinari Trade Federation in the past twenty years have brought high technology to the goblins and allowed them to leave Sorah for the first time. Most of the species remains on their homeworld, but they are growing more common elsewhere everyday.

Heraani

Homeworld: Arngile (28.4%)

Average Height: 4'9

Average Weight: 54 lb.

Average Longevity: 78

Preferred Habitat: Cool, dry, mountainous

The heraani are known for several physical features that are unique among the known intelligent species. They are avian humanoids. Hence, they are completely covered in feathers, have talons, beaks on their heads, and have perhaps the best vision of the intelligent species, able to see very long distances and spot objects from far away, much like an eagle. Their most notable feature, however, is the wings on their backs, extending from about where the shoulder blade is. These wings are large enough to facilitate free-flight whenever conditions, such as weather, permit. However, in order to be light enough to engage in flight for any lengths, their bones are hollow, making them considerably fragile in comparison to the other denizens of the galaxy. In fact, it is possible for a heraani to gain enough strength where the amount of weight they can light is limited by the capacity of their bones, as opposed to their muscles. Another major point of interest, though not unique, is their reproduction through eggs. Some scientists theorize this may be the reason for their lower population numbers. At present, however, no study has been completed on the subject, but several are in progress.

Despite their lower population numbers, the heraani, or more accurately the Hwarni States, whose population is roughly 85% heraani, are also noted for their surprising amount of technological and magical development. Their levels of development are comparable to the larger nations, an impressive feat considering the massive lack of resources that'd be available to the larger nations. Being pacifistic in nature due to cultural influences, interactions with the heraani nation has been violence free. Also as a cultural influence, a great deal of development went into medical sciences and magic, an area they surpass everyone else in. Heraani doctors are in high demand across the galaxy.

Humans

Homeworld: Earth (0.8%)

Average Height: 5'9

Average Weight: 170 lb.

Average Longevity: 80 years

Preferred Habitat: Temperate, plains

Perhaps because they make up a majority population of two of the major nations, humans are very well known across the galaxy. Physically, humans have not changed since the early 21st century. However, as they spread and intermingled more, and often having few choices of spouses in the early colonial stages on many worlds, there is a significantly larger number of those who could be labeled as "mixed-ethnicity". This trend, however, is not unique among humans and can be found in all space-faring species. Though notable traits that have been identified as unique among humans include their speaking capabilities. Humans pick up on things such as hand motions, body language, inflection, and et cetera when it comes to vocal communication. This isn't to say other species are mundane speakers. They just have to work harder to achieve the same levels and tend to communicate with other methods. Humans are also known for approaching things with unusually high levels of determination, though this sometimes translates into stubbornness as opposed to something beneficial.

An attempt to cover human history in detail since post-21st century could take hundreds of pages. However, focusing on the largest and most significant events in a tiny nutshell gives us a split at about the time they started to colonize worlds outside their own solar system. The first focus is on the United Federation of Earth, who was preceded by the Confederacy of Sol, which in turn formed from the unification of the country-based nations on Earth and several off-world governments. When humans had spread to about ten separate stars, a group seceded and formed the Coalition of Independent systems, seeking to overthrow the C.S. The following war resulted in the defeat of the C.I.S, but weakened the Confederacy enough that several secessions a decade later crippled it to the point of being all but useless. Dissatisfied with the system that had become corrupt over the years, a revolution toppled the government. Two decades of instability followed before the United Federation of Earth was formed with the promise to reunite humanity under a single banner. Back by an efficient government and military, they were successful in their efforts, or so they believed up until the current war with the Inix Empire.

During the early colonization period prior to the formation of the Confederacy of Sol, it is recorded that a colony ship was stolen by an unknown group and vanished. This group traveled for an estimated hundred or so years in a cold sleep until they arrived at their destination. The craft descended upon the world that would later become known as Cerine. The native species, known as the tyreki, already lived on the world, but had not developed much. The humans carefully interacted with the natives, not wanting to start conflict. They managed to maintain peace and, over the years, the two species would eventually freely mingle. Somehow managing to avoid all but one late major between the nations that arose (though there were plenty of minor ones), they managed to keep pace with, or really catch up to, the technology of those they had left behind. The one conflict nobody is sure how it started, but it seriously crippled everyone. After the war ended, some twenty years of negotiation went into trying to prevent it from happening again. As opposed to forming a sort of United Nations, they merged to form a single nation known as the Cerine Dominion. However, with the rapid progress they made as a whole, the name was, by popular demand, changed to the Phoenix Dominion, as they had literally risen from the ashes. Eventually, they would expand to other worlds and reestablish contact with the U.F.E. Despite the claim to unite humanity under a single banner, the U.F.E. has not attempted to do so with the Dominion. This is most certainly due to the fact that the U.F.E. was already at war with the Inix Empire when contact was made.

Kulars

Homeworld: Fryar (3.4%)

Average Height: 5'11

Average Weight: 197 lb.

Average Longevity: 83

Preferred Habitat: Cool, dry, forest

If the ancient Egyptians had encountered the kular, they perhaps would had revered them as divine, if not as gods. This is because kular are a species of plantigrade feline humanoids. Their physiology shows similarities to both large and smaller cats, being in a sort of middle ground. The fur that covers their bodies ranges from the exotic patterns similar to that of many larger cats, such as different color variations of leopards, to more plain coats like that of Earth's common house cats. Kular has the largest variation in external appearance for skin and hair/fur colors of any species, only the selune come close. Kular typically have sharp claws and teeth to accompany their appearance. They are also known to have slightly higher strength than the galactic average and amazing dexterity. Hearing and smell are also on exceptional levels, though their visual prowess is a bit lacking. Finally, kular, like dinari, are known to have strong instincts. However, theirs are more focused on hunting and bringing down prey as opposed to have strong desire to claim territory.

Kular traditional culture is strongly oriented around the wildnerness. Even in the modern times, young males of about sixteen years of age go on a "Coming of Age" ritual, which involves spending a week in the wilderness alone and living off the land. Upon successful return, a day long celebration is held to honor the boy's transformation from child to adult. Another notable cultural trait is the kular's preference to hunt with traditional weapons: namely bows, spears, knives, hand-crafted traps, and sometimes even their own claws and teeth. It is widely believed that these traditions resulted in the kular's poor agricultural development. Fryar has the least number of acres of farmland of any homeworld, second only to the resource depleted Inix.

Luck was with the kular during their development. At some point early in their recorded history, a large group found an abandoned attempt to colonize the world by another civilization. No surviving records were found as to who created the location or why the attempt was given up. Archaeological evidence is sparse due to the subsequent heavy settlement and development on the location. Over the years the nation that controlled the ruins became more advance. The ones who controlled it would repeatedly fall and be replaced by internal factors, but never by an external threat. Eventually, due to this rapid increase of technology due to the abandoned facilities, the kular were able to catch up with the rest of the galaxy and grow to become the Fryar Kingdom and eventually spread beyond their holdings. Today, they are not uncommon is most galactic regions, as only 55% of the species lives in their home nation.

Koross

Homeworld: Ssss-Tsss, Zynta* by Inix Empire records (Percentage unknown)

Average Height: 6'3

Average Weight: 243 lb.

Average Longevity: 65

Preferred Habitat: Warm, moist, caves

Koross are one of the lesser known species, having over 99% of their population either serving as slaves in the Inix Empire or trapped beneath the surface of their homeworld, maintaining what little freedom they have. Among those who do know of them, they are renowned as the only intelligent species that is reptilian and also the only one that is cold blooded. Their bodies are covered in tough green, brown, or blues scales. Their tail is long and thick, making it quite strong and capable of manipulating objects when a great deal of dexterity is applied. They have exceptional senses of hearing and smell, but very poor vision, possibly due to being subterranean in nature. Their choice of dwelling places may also be why they're strength and endurance are high above average.

Little is known about this species, as most of their records are buried somewhere on Ssss-Tsss. It is known that they have been enslaved for some centuries and are eager for their freedom. It is also known that their tunnel system is incredibly complex. This has generated enough reluctance in the Inix Empire to deter any invasion of the tunnels, leaving an unknown proportion of their population free. Some argue that if the demand for more slaves rose enough, this perception would change. The level of development the koross remains is unclear, but magic does not appear to be part of the equation.

*Unlike most worlds, the Inix Empire does not use the native name of Ssss-Tsss, likely due to the difficulty pronouncing it. In fact, Ssss-Tsss is an abbreviation of it's full name, which is largely a combination of hisses most species find extremely difficult to duplicate and is impossible to write out in english.

Moashi

Homeworld: Merr'Na'Shun (1.2%)

Average Height: 5'8

Average Weight: 213 lb.

Average Longevity: 75

Preferred Habitat: Hot, humid, forest

Moashi are a species of anthropomorphized, bipedal foxes. Note differences from foxes, other than the aforementioned quality, include a high level on intelligence equal to that of your typical human, plantigrade legs, a larger variety of fur colorization, and a preference for hot and humid climates, preferring temperatures of 100 degrees fahrenheit and higher. Moashi also have marginally enhanced hearing and smell over most other species, though the differences are fairly minute. However, their most notable natural trait is their innate cunning. While goblins are superior in this regard, moashi minds seem to have instinctive drives to "scheme", for lack of a better word. Moashi strategies in military, politics, social life, and et cetera are often very clever and difficult to catch onto.

A few notes on their traditional culture point out that moashi still rely heavily on specific naming conventions, as detailed below. Also, due to a strong preference for warm weather, but also having a constant coat of fur, many moashi wear little to no clothing in their natural enviroments. However, due to the fact that such practice is almost universally regarded as either savage or immoral (a notable exception to these beliefs are the Heraani, possibly attributed to their lack of outwardly visible "private" anatomy), this has been a changing trend, at least in areas where members of other species often frequent. However, away from the public eyes of others, and especially in regions almost, if not fully, exclusively populated by moashi, this practice continues unabated.

The moashi, having little luck with magic, had focused their developments on technology and reached extra-stellar colonization without any external aid. As previously mentioned, the Nor'Re'De is notable for discovering the dinari species and indirectly creating the D.T.F. An estimated 57% of the population dwells within their home nation. Though, unlike most other species, they make up a significant portion of another nation;s population. Specifically, around 10% of the Phoenix Dominion's, likely due to the large number of warm worlds under their control, as opposed to the many cool ones within and around their native region. The other 33% are spread across the known galaxy.

As previously mentioned, the moashi are the only species with any real naming conventions that are still largely followed in current times. All names given to individuals are made up of three syllables. For males, its a single syllable sound followed with glottal stop indicated by an apostrophe used as an 'okina. After that comes a two syllable sound. Females are the opposite, with a dual syllable sound followed by a single. Merr'Nithal would be an example of a male name and Vera'Shan a female name. However, no particular spelling is reserved for either specific gender. In the latter example, a male could have the same name, should the spelling be altered slightly to Ver'Ashan. As a result, the glottal stop comes before the 'a' instead the 'shan', resulting in a slight difference of pronunciation. Other things have their own rules as well, but to get into them would take far too long. However, for a quick example, places, organizations, and nations, are generally three part words with a single syllable each, such as Merr'Na'Shun, their homeworld, and Nor'Ree'De, the moashi's home nation.

Natue

Homeworld: Feila (42.7%)

Average Height: 5'6

Average Weight: 123 lb.

Average Longevity: 73

Preferred Habitat: Temperate, dry, plains

The large number of species with distinct similarities to terrestrial animals (and the fact that many of the said animals can be found on multiple worlds, albeit usually with marked differences from their cousins from different planets) has baffled biologists of virtually every origin to no end, as this simple fact conflicts with the hundreds of different theories each culture has developed for how life came about. The natue only add to this confusion by physically resembling kangaroos. However, the fact they do not follow the trend of having claws and enhanced hearing and smell only adds to the mystery. Instead, natue have exceptional vision that rivals an elf and have no natural "weapons", assuming martial arts is not included in the definition of weapon. Natue are weaker than the norm, but not so much as to be considered frail, and nor do they lack endurance. However, in stark contrast to the vanolians who enslave them, they have strong, digitigrade legs, all members are able to easily make large or high jumps and run quite quickly. Additionally, as marsupials, females have a pouch with which they carry their young in while they continue to develop after birth.

Surviving records, as well as stories passed down among the species, suggest that, prior to the Inix Empire invading Feila, natue society and values were very similar to that of the modern Hwarni States. While their technology was considerably behind, their medical magic was very well developed, and continues to be to this day. However, they do not get to use it for the purposes they prefer.

At present, the natue are largely enslaved by the Inix Empire, with an estimated 99% trapped under their heel of oppression. Outside of Inix, seeing a natue is extremely rare, though they can most often be found employed under the Liberation Army.

Nephils

Homeworld: Frrsha (28.5%)

Average Height: 5'4

Average Weight: 107 lb.

Average Longevity: 74 years

Preferred Habitat: Temperate, moist, forest, night

Nephils are rat-like humanoids, and also one of the few species that resembles a type of animal to be digitigrade. And not all species that resemble animals have an Earth counterpart, such as humans, by the way. Anyways, the fur color of the nephil is typically brown or gray, though plenty of other shades exist as well. They have a long tail that can reach past the ground when standing at all height. These tails are strong and dexterous enough to manipulate some objects, though typically cannot lift as much as an arm can. Nephil have exceptional hearing, but even a better sense of smell that nearly rivals the dinari. They have excellent manual dexterity, but are somewhat frail when compared to other intelligent species.

Their most notable trait is the fact that the nephil are the only intelligent nocturnal species. Their typical morning begins a hour or two after sunset and the day usually ends sometime after sunrise, depending how late, by their standards, they stay up. As a result, nephil can see in the dark as if it were broad daylight. However, by contrast, broad daylight is quite blinding to them, resulting in the rough equivalent of pitch dark. This had led to some interesting nephil advancements, such as the darkbulb, which, as you could expect, makes a room darker by drawing in the light.

Historically, as rats are considered as lowly rodents in most societies, the nephil have been seen as lowly as well. Ironically, the nephils also see ordinary rats and mice as mere lowly rodents as well and, as a result, are often insulted when compared to as such. Their behavior and culture is drastically different and highly civilized: nephil had just reached the space colonial age when they were discovered by the D.T.F. Attitudes are changing towards the species as the others grow less ignorant about what they really are, as opposed to their preconceived notions that they are very similar to the vermin many associate with cheese. With the nephil being fairly spread out among civilized space these days the process has only been accelerated.

Ogres

Homeworld: Utef'Etah (99.9%)

Average Height: 9'1

Average Weight: 534 lb.

Average Longevity: 47

Preferred Habitat: Cold, arid, plains

The recently discovered ogre species live far from the beaten path in space, their world being quite a ways from the fringe of any space-borne nation. They are huge, built with a mass of muscular girth that puts the strongest representative for any other species to shame. They also have the endurance to match, able to work for excessive periods of time without rest. Their skin is normally a pale manilla and ranges from being as hard as a rock to a resilient as iron. However, all of their development on muscles appears to have caused neglect to the brain. An ogre "genius" appears to be as intelligent as the average human.

Little is yet to be known about ogre culture. A few specimens have been removed from Utef'Etah for scientific study, which is where the above information is gleaned from. Unsurprisingly, the Inix Empire has expressed interest in ogre slaves. However, due to Utef'Etah's distant location, the sheer strength and consequential difficulty involved in capturing an ogre, and the fact that many see dealing with Inix as risky, little action as been taken on this request. However, some raids on vessels transporting illegal goods has turned up a kidnapped ogre or two on very rare occasions.

Orcs

Homeworld: Rhydin (31.8%)

Average Height: 6'3

Average Weight: 345 lb.

Average Longevity: 65 years

Preferred Habitat: Temperate, plains

The orc species have been described by humans as looking like larger, typically more muscular, often green skinned (though blues and browns exist) versions of themselves. The human species, as described by the orcs, have been described as looking like smaller, typically more scrawny, often pink skinned (though browns and blacks exist) versions of themselves. Anyways, orcs are known for being quite strong, one of the toughest species around. They are also known to be very violent prone. Part of this is due to the fact that the fight aspect of the fight-or-flight instinct has much more emphasis in their mind. Additionally, the scent of blood is known to trigger violent outbursts by orcs, similar to the effects of some mind-altering drugs without addiction. Despite this, orcs are not lacking in intelligence. However, they tend to be a notch below humans on average, though the lack of emphasis on education in most orc societies may be to blame.

Their general violence has caused them to traditionally be seen as barbaric. However, this is not the case, as this issue has been something orcs have been struggling with for quite some time in order to maintain peace. They try to avoid war just as much as anyone else. Hence, to alleviate some of their violence tendencies, friendly combat and contact sports are a major part of their culture and entertainment. For example, when humans found them and began to interact, orcs readily adopted sports such as boxing and football. Also, now that they have access to advanced technology, drugs have been developed to suppress their violent tendencies. Though many orcs use these, they remain controversial. They've also spread out quite a bit in the galaxy, largely due to those, unable to control themselves, looking for a war to fight or seeking other violent occupation. Orcs perhaps fit closest to the stereotypes about them.

Quieren

Homeworld: Quira (100%)

Average Height: 7'3

Average Weight: 115 lb.

Average Longevity: 104

Preferred Habitat: Underwater

Perhaps the best creature to compare a quieren to would be the fictional mermaid. However, quieren are not merely creatures with a human head, chest, and torso attached to a fish tail. Rather, their entire bodies are both serpentine and fish-like with a vague humanoid shape. Skin colors tend to be dull grays. However, the most interesting fact about their physiology is that they are the only known intelligent species to dwell underwater. Unlike all the others, quieren have gills instead of lungs and cannot survive on the surface without special equipment. They are also notable for being one of the few to utilize eggs for reproduction.

Little is known about quieren culture, society, and history. They are entirely trapped on their homeworld and essentially enslaved by the Inix Empire, who blockades their world and threatens to destroy it if their quotas are not filled. Realistically, the Inix Empire does not have planet destruction capabilities (and such a thing is thought as being impossible anyways) and would be very reluctant to wage a war in an aquatic environment. However, the quieren are apparently too low in their understanding of technology to realize either of these facts. It is unknown if the quieren are able to manipulate the forces of magic.

Selune

Homeworld: Aludia (17.5%)

Average Height: 5'10

Average Weight: 175 lb.

Average Longevity: 125 Years

Preferred Habitat: Cool, forest

The selune are a species with a few highly unique characteristics. The term "neko" has been used to describe them, particularly by citizens of the UF.E. who frequent the externet (a sort of galaxy-wide network that links each planet's local internet), which apparently seems to mean "cat person" or, more specifically, a person with cat ears and tail. The selune, however, are much more than that, as they are a hybrid species born from the coupling of elves and kular, which is, by the way, an extremely rare occurrence since the species generally are not physically attracted to one another. They have inherited the general body structure and physique of the elves, though their kular genes eliminates their traces of frailty. They typically have dark skin, usually in a mid-tone brown, the aforementioned cat ears and tail, small claws on their hands and feet, slitted eyes and, when the climate is cold enough, a very thin layer of fur over their skin. Fur color varies almost as widely as it does for the kular and matches that on their ears, tail, and their hair color. Additionally, when they do not have their fur grown, their fur patterns are visible on their skin due to slight changes in pigmentation, such as slightly darker strikes or spots.

The selune have also inherited other characteristics, such as noticeably, but not exceptionally, improved sense of smell, exceptional hearing, above average dexterity, mild predator instincts, and above average vision. None of these traits are as nearly pronounced as they are in either parent species, making for an even blend. However, the most curious aspect is the fact that, unlike other hybrid species, such as human/elf, orc/dwarf, dinari/moashi mixes, the selune are not sterile. They are fully capable of breeding and producing off-spring and even hybridizing with other species, though selune/other hybrids are still extremely rare considering their small population. Hence, unlike most hybrids, the selune are commonly accepted as a separate species.

Aludia could be regarded as the homeworld of the selune, as this is where the species was first discovered and is the planet they have chosen to identify with. According to records, both a population of elves and kular had, by sheer chance, moved to this world and settled the same region as part of a D.T.F. effort to colonize the world. Once things were set-up, government officials reported a few "odd children" that "those elves had taken a cat fetish a bit too far". No real investigation, beyond the usual medical records and the like, were made until one couple of the "odd children" that had grown up had created off-spring. This spurred the D.T.F. to launch a major scientific study, which discovered many of the surprising facts discussed above. Presently some in the scientific community wonder if the selune might be the "key to creating other non-sterile hybrids" with the other intelligent species, or at least the mammalian ones.. An experiment with volunteers has been launched to test, though, since the project is only a few years old, none of the children are yet old enough to generate any sort of evidence.

Taurs

Homeworld: Taur (Tentative until the native name is discovered) (100%)

Average Height: 5'9

Average Weight: 345 lb.

Average Longevity: 64

Preferred Habitat: Varies

It is debatable as to whether those classified as taur are six sub-species that are extremely different or six separate species (assuming there are not any that remain undiscovered). There are arguments for both cases, such as them being genetically related and, in theory, capable of hybridizing non-sterile offspring for the former, and the fact that they are completely distinct and one of them is a reptile for the latter. All members of the taur species have the lower body of a quadruped animal and the upper body of an anthropomorphic version of a humanoid. The first, most well known, and slightly misrepresented as having human upper bodies are the equine centaur. The others include the feline frrtaur, the vulpine shataur, the canine ergtaur (wolves, not dogs), the ursine kodiataur, and the croctaur, which represent crocodiles. Some of these names are "unofficial", or in other words nonnative, such as the later case.

As Taur remains largely unexplored and is far removed from well-traveled space lanes, and also is little known even in the scientific community, little is known about taur culture, history, or preferences of habitat. It also remains possible there are more variations of taur dwelling in places yet explored. It may be several years before any team is sent to the world, as the nearest major powers, the Phoenix Dominion and Inix Empire, are at war.

Trolls

Homeworld: Sorah (69.3%)

Average Height: 6'2

Average Weight: 218 lbs.

Average Longevity: 67

Preferred Habitat: Warm, plains

Trolls stand out a bit from the other intelligent species, except when compared to a tall orc or short troll on occasion when the troll in question has dark green skin. In the addition, skin pigmentation includes various shades of gray, which are much more common, and occasionally pitch black. The dark green colorization is a bit of an anomaly and also a recessive gene, believed to be a result of a mutation. While fairly tall, trolls do not have the same amount of girth as the other larger species do, though their strength is still above the norm. Instead of strength, their forms are typically lithe and agile. Often one unfamiliar with then can misjudge their mobility, which could potentially prove fatal in a violent encounter.

Trolls have a long, proud history and culture centered around the martial arts, something their bodies are perfectly built for. Masters in their martial arts have known to take down heavily armed and armored foes with their hands alone, guns, magic, other paranormal abilities such as telepathy, and personal shield generators aside. However, trolls are not afraid to use all forms of weaponry themselves. Also central to their martial arts are the religious practices that generally accompany them. As a result, many trolls are superstitious and have many odd beliefs that have no scientific grounding.

While most of their species are living on their homeworld, others have managed to leave due to the recent incorporation of their world into the D.T.F. And due to the nature of the economic-minded power, many trolls who have left Sorah are dispersed throughout known, civilized space, though the largest concentrations remain within the Dinari Trade Federation. On their homeworld, trolls have traditionally had a love/hate relationship with the goblins ranging from total war to total peace.

Tyreki (pronounced Tie-wreck-ie)

Homeworld: Cerine (7.8%)

Average Height: 5'6

Average Weight: 163 lb.

Average Longevity: 71

Preferred Habitat: Temperate, mountainous

The tyrekian species have a physical build that equates closely with humans. However, by contrast, they have blueish-green skin, totally lack any sort of body hair, and have bizarre eye colors that range from bright shades of red to bright shades of yellow. Tyreki historical records indicate that they have not always looked like this, but rather seemed to have undergone major mutations with harmful ones weeding themselves out through natural selection or sterilization as a result.

Heavily common on Cerine, but can be occasionally found elsewhere, is the crystalline mineral known as tiros. Among many properties related to pure energy manipulation, they also give off a unique type of radiation. It is believed this radiation caused the mutations, with theories as to why other species are unaffected include that only the tyreki are affected and have grown tolerant (which seems to be the case considering their natural resistance to nuclear radiation) or the radiation was far stronger in the past. Additionally, one surviving mutation is the ability to directly manipulate and store pure energy, giving them great control over it and leading to several, highly advanced technological innovations while the rest of their technology was very low. All tyreki can utilize this force and improve if through use.

The tyreki are a young species when compared to most, as they were still in early stages of developing their civilization and society when humans who had left Earth in a stolen colony ship descended upon their world. For the brief history on this, please take a look at the entry on humans. However, being so early in development, the tyreki have, by now, lost any specific traditional culture unique to their species, as it is now blended with the Phoenix Dominion's culture. This had led to some negative opinions within the species, as well as without on a much smaller degree, but apparently many do not seem to mind at all, or at least do not vocalize their concerns. An estimated 70% of the tyreki still live in the Phoenix Dominion, with the rest being dispersed across civilization.

Vanolians (pronounced Va-no-lee-ann)

Homeworld: Inix (0.4%)

Average Height: 6'9

Average Weight: 312 lb.

Average Longevity: 86

Preferred Habitat: Cool, plains

Interestingly enough, vanolians were equated with orcs just as much as goblins were based on physical appearance alone, despite the fact such a connection would tear any sort of attempted stretch. Vanolians look extremely similar to orcs. The only differences lay in their skin colors, which are always shades of gray, and the fact they are even bigger than the green species. Their sizes comes complete with superior strength and stamina surpassed only by the ogres when compared to intelligent species. The exception, however, lays in their legs. Vanolians have unusually underdeveloped muscles in their legs, thighs, and hips. They can support themselves just fine on them, but movement is extremely slow. The average speed of a charging vanolian, in good health and average fitness, is comparable to the average jogging speed of a human in similar conditions. As a result, vanolians have become more patient and seem to dislike speed. Also likely as a result, the vanolian soldiers of the Inix Empire are notorious for wearing extremely heavy armor and carrying large weapons that most of species and nations would avoid on the account of being slowed down too much. Also of note, like the eelema, they cannot use magic in any way, shape, or form, despite their heavy scientific study into the matter.

The existing stereotype claims that all vanolians are evil. This is not without weight, thanks to the inherent social engineering from the Inix Empire's culture. Vanolian citizens of said nation are known to be very cruel and apathetic towards other species. Anyone captured is either enslaved or killed. They are also known for their brutal interrogation and torture methods that can make a hardened veteran of battlefield shudder. However, verified arguments painting them in a better light show that most of those who have left the Inix Empire and stayed out for a fair length of time are merely cold, but capable of being friendly. Their children, if born and raised outside the Empire, fair even better.

Records indicate that vanolians may have shared their homeworld with several other species, who they drove into extinction. However, thanks to propaganda and the fact that the Inix Empire guards the real records well, these may have just been other factions of the species. Regardless, the Inix Empire was founded long before their space age and has thrived on slave-labor ever since. Due to their powerful economy and industry, the Inix Empire controls the largest chunk of territory of all the nations. As a result of not engaging in manual labor for centuries, vanolians may be the most populous intelligent species in the galaxy.

Disease-based sub-species

Therianthropes

Homeworld: None

Average Height: Depends on original race.

Average Weight: Depends on original race.

Average Age: Depends on original race.

Preferred Habitat: Depends on original race.

Not a true species, therianthropes are those who have been affected by a disease called Therianthropy, though more well known as Lycanthropy (which is merely a form of the disease). There are two strains of the disease. The first, and at one time was the most common, causes the victim to shape-shift via DNA mutation when exposed to moonlight. How this works is not yet understood. When moonlight no longer touches the victim, they revert. Those affected by this strain often loose control of themselves and go on violent rampages. Many therianthropes with this strain have been killed off over the millennia, making it rare. The second mutates the DNA immediately, quickly shape-shifting the victim into wereform over the course of several hours, which they are stuck into until cured, which can only be done within three days of infection.

An estimated 98% of all therianthropes are werewolves, though other forms, such as werecats, foxes, rats, etc. exist. The disease is apparently magical in nature, for powerful anti-magic (along with specific medicines) will cure the disease. When cured, a second strain therianthrope will revert to normal over the course of two to four weeks, so long as they are cured within 72 hours. Otherwise they will remain in wereform, but unable to infect others.

When in wereform, therianthropes can spread the disease by getting any of their body fluids within a non-infected person. For example, in biting, the most common method, the spread is due to saliva leaking into the bite wound. Therianthropes also benefit from increased sense of smell and hearing added to what they normally have, but their sight worsens. Therianthropes take humanoid form, but get inverted legs and any humanish hair goes away.

While the second strain is more accepted by other species, many still live a rogue lifestyle or in small villages of their own kind. It is believed that less than .01% of the galactic population has therianthropy of some form.

Vampires

Homeworld: None

Average Height: Depends on original race.

Average Weight: Depends on original race.

Average Age: Depends on original race.

Preferred Habitat: Depends on original race.

Vampires are members of any species infected with a disease that causes them to require the drinking of blood to survive. The disease also tends to cause their skin to become pale, making the sun a little more than irritating. Though merely painful, it is enough to force vampires to prefer darkness. The disease also makes garlic mildly toxic, but only if eaten and it is usually not fatal. The only known cure for the disease is death, which can be accomplished in the same methods as one would normally kill a person.

Vampires are often shunned and despised, more often than not violently driven out of society, forcing them to live off the blood of animals. "Vampire Rights", "People for the Ethical Treatment of Vampire", and other movements have arisen to try to eliminate this social phobia, though success is presently extremely limited. It is estimated that less than a tiny fraction of the galactic population has vampirism, far less than therianthropy. There are also no known colonies of vampires, many preferring to live alone.

Immortal Species

Note that none of these dwell in the mortal plain, but rather the equivalent realm that most universes' gods and goddesses live. Also note that, upon entering the for the first time mortal plane, they loose their immortality and much of their power and cannot leave until they die, which often can take a long time due to their possibly unlimited life span. After recovering from this in the immortal plane, they can safely enter the mortal plane without risk, though very few can do this as of now and most are unaware that they won't loose their powers again.

Angels

Homeworld: The immortal plane

Average Height: varies

Average Weight: varies

Average Longevity: ?

Preferred Habitat: Any

Angels are the immortals who by some method or another came to the mortal realm. Since they are not natives, they generally are not considered a true species, for it is rare for two angels to look alike and often do not follow the stereotyped human with white feathery wings. They came to the mortal realm and taught the mortals goodness before the War and aided the mortals the best they could during the war. They may have came up with the plan to banish the demonic forces which led to the breaking of the nameless world and dividing the elder races, though it is also believed a certain vlasu was responsible instead. Regardless, it is believed that they were appalled at the results of the plan and exiled themselves from the mortal realm. An angel has not been seen in over 8000 years. It is unknown how the war in the immortal realm with the forces of evil goes.

Demons

Homeworld: The immortal plane

Average Height: varies

Average Weight: varies

Average Longevity: ?

Preferred Habitat: Any

Demons are the immortals who by some method or another came to the mortal realm. Since they are not natives, they generally are not considered a true species, for it is rare for two demons to look alike. They are responsible for the War to Begin All Wars, where they were defeated and, for the most part, banished from the mortal plane. Demons still break into the mortal plane, though it's debated that they're survivors from the war, where they cause chaos, destruction, and corruption. However, once in the mortal realm, they too become mortal and are perfectly killable. It is unknown how the war in the immortal realm with the forces of good goes.

Vlasu

Homeworld: The immortal plane

Average Height: varies

Average Weight: varies

Average Longevity: ?

Preferred Habitat: Any

The vlasu are the immortals who did not get involved in the war between good and evil in the immortal realm. Like demons and angels, the vlasu never look the same, though it is assumed that they are all humanoid, explaining why almost all the races are humanoid. Legend holds that they created the mortal realm as a place to escape to and became the first species, both intelligent and otherwise. They were involved in the War to Begin All Wars by aiding the mortals, but primarily by creating the seven Legends, the protectors of the mortal plane. After the War, the vlasu mysteriously became quite and seemingly inactive, but it is still believed that they create species and more of the realm. Rumors of vlasu sightings float around in some areas, but they are never confirmed.