Confederation and Empire:Races

An Update on the Various Races in Confederation, Imperial, and Known Space
As compiled by: Dr. John Alexander, Ph.D.
Confederation Institute on Racial Studies and Interspecies Cooperation-Renaissance, Draco

Humanity

Planet of Origin: Terra

Currently the most numerous of the races inhabiting Known Space, Humanity occupies hundreds of Systems, many of them leftover from the Terran Empire and still in the pre-spaceflight stage. As each individual planet has its own differences in ecology, the humans on that planet will differ from the norm in minor ways. There also exist three major variations to the human genotype: "Ants", Guardians, and Astartians. However these variations have been artificially created by Imperial science rather than natural selection.

Anrak

Planet of Origin: AnrakDrefellan

The Anrak are a methane breathing race resembling one meter tall soda bottles. They possess radial symmetry, having five arms, spaced evenly around their bodies, and travel on a rippling "belly-foot" much like snails. A slow-moving and slow-thinking race, The Anrak are, however considered politically very astute and make excellent diplomats. The five-lobed makeup of their brains allows them to ponder all sides of a problem simultaneously, and suggest multiple solutions to a problem. Due to the exotic requirements of their world they rarely travel, but maintain contact with the Universe at large through an extensive system of Starbase offices and diplomatic contacts. For a nominal fee they will act as arbiters for any dispute.

"Ants"

Planet of Origin: Fzzrrtchk

As much as they may vehemently deny it, the Ant race is a product of early Imperial experiments in genetic engineering in an attempt to produce a superior soldier. Ants tend to be larger than the Human norm, covered with semi-rigid, armored skin. Eyes have been modified to featureless black orbs and the skull is noticeably larger, to better protect the brain. Due to the hardening of their skin, certain sounds cannot be reproduced by the Ant mouth. Because of this they have developed a new language, which they steadfastly refuse to teach to any other race. As a whole, Ants tend to be aggressive and confrontational, though not dangerously so. Ants usually form into clans, basically large extended families.

Astartians

Planet of Origin: Astarte'

The Astartian race was an Imperial attempt to create a genetically perfect human being. Undesirable genetic traits were eliminated and both physical and mental characteristics were altered to produce what was thought to be the highest attainable characteristics in both body and mind. The result was a race of physically beautiful beings with a higher than normal intelligence, possessed of a distinct tendency to look down on humans in general. As a whole, Astartians want nothing to do with the rest of the Universe, preferring to tend to their own affairs at home. Reflecting this attitude the Astartians remain Neutral in all political conflicts that do not directly effect their home. Rarely, an individual Astartian will venture out into the Universe and deal with others on an almost equal basis, however these cases are rare as this amounts to voluntary exile from home; these Astartians will be ostracized by other members of their race.

Ch' (Brachiates)

Planet of Origin: Ch'ch'cheech (Rainforest)

The Ch' are a small simian race, superficially resembling Spider Monkeys, with dark brown fur and oversized eyes. The planet Ch'ch'cheech is almost entirely covered in Forests and the Ch' are well-adapted to an arboreal environmental. At the time of the planets discovery, the Ch' were a pre-industrial race, since joining Interstellar society they have become famous as technicians and experts in complex mechanics. Their sharp minds, amazing manual dexterity, and highly developed sense of touch and sight make them highly qualified for tasks involving the use of and manipulation of tools and small parts. Ch' society is tribal in nature and consists of loosely organized, linear families. On the downside, they are to be considered politically naive; because of this Ch' government is run almost entirely by the Anrak, a situation which both races heartily approve.

Guardians

Planet of Origin: Home

The Guardians are also an early Imperial attempt at genetically creating the perfect soldier, though they tend to revel in it rather than deny it. Their skin has also been thickened to provide protection, and they tend to be smaller than the Human norm, looking like stocky humans with lizard-like hides. It is internally that they differ from Humans and Ants. Their brain and heart functions have been completely de-centralized and spread out over the entire body. Eyes have been enlarged and changed into organs which extend almost entirely around the head. Retractable claws now grow from the fingers and toes. All physical attributes have been increased to human maximum and many autonomic, or "instinctive" reactions have been given a conscious override. As a whole, Guardians tend to be easy-going types with the ability to fly into a killing rage when they choose to. Guardians usually are very individualistic, though they will defend friends and loved ones with a single minded ferocity.

Hixa

Planet of Origin: Hixa

The Hixa are physically similar to Humanity, in that they are human-sized bipeds with four fingers and an opposable thumb. Hixa, however, have claws on these digits, and many are trained to use them to good effect in combat. Hixa tend to be taller and slimmer than humans, and are covered with long, wavy hair, which they take great pride in. Facially they rather resemble Afghan hounds. They are extremely proud creatures and tend to be standoffish with other races. Despite this, they are not obnoxious, but they will take any insult to their race very seriously. Hixa is a representative democracy. Hixa do make for good diplomats because they rarely lose their temper and they do not lie.

Hrrilarr

Planet of Origin: Planet 1

The Hrrilarr are a large and physically powerful race. Optimum gravity for them is 6.2 Gs, and they can exist comfortably at up to 20 Gs for long periods with no ill effects. Hrrilarr have a long, Iow, body structure, rather resembling a flattened green pear with six short limbs spaced three to a side, four digits per limb. They have no mouths and food is consumed by being absorbed directly through the skin in the form of a sprayed-on nutrient mix, mimicking the thick atmosphere of their homeworld. Speech is accomplished by vibrating a tympanic membrane, located on the front of the body. While the Hrrilarr as a race possess many excellent qualities; level-headedness, loyalty, and a sense of fair-play; a vivid imagination is a rare trait for a member of this race. Hrrilarr tend to be mental plodders, making few intuitive leaps in the course of coming to a conclusion. As a result they tend to look on races who are quick to react, like Humanity and Ithri, as rather childish and silly.

Hs'Thai

Planet of Origin: Hss'Shara

Hs'Thai resemble 3 to 4 meter tall Tyrannosaurus Rex with overdeveloped arms, painted in bright colors. The race has a reputation for ferocity that is practically unmatched in Known Space, they consider personal combat to be an art form and often individuals or groups will rent themselves out as mercenaries, the contracts for which they will scrupulously maintain. Their planet is a tropical hell-hole populated with all manner of inimical and dangerous life-forms, which the Hs'Thai hunt for sport. Hs'Thai can be considered at their best; honorable warriors and, at their worst; dangerous and warlike pirates.

Ithri

Planet of Origin: Ithri

The Ithri are a bipedal race, resembling Humanity in general physical makeup, though they are noticeably feline. Fur is normally white or tan. They are a small, fast race who prefer cold, dry worlds with low gravity. Ithri tend to jump to conclusions and, as a result, are generally viewed as being anarchistic by most other races. They also view death as an inevitable consequence of life; fights among Ithri escalate rapidly and an Ithri who is not completely familiar with Interstellar society is often thought to be dangerously homicidal, until things are explained to it. They will conform to most rules when they must, but prefer their own, more chaotic lifestyle. Ithri also, as a race seem to be drawn to quixotic gestures and lost causes, and are willing to bet at long odds despite all logic, this trait makes them popular players at casinos. Ithri starships tend to mimic the Ithri outlook, being small, fast, heavily armed, and lightly defended. They form the bulk of the reconnaissance forces for both the Nossidar Conglomerate and Confederation.

Nossidar

Planet of Origin: Nossidar

The Nossidar may qualify as one of the more unusual races in Known Space; physiologically at least. Mentally they are very close to Humanity as far as overall outlook and mental cogitation are concerned. Physically they resemble large crabs made entirely of colored crystal with a light mounted on the front. The number of manipulatory appendages varies among individuals, with four being the average. They can grow specialized limbs if necessary. Their general chemical makeup is based on silicon rather than carbon, due to this their biological processes are wildly different from most other races. All Nossidar also possess the Psionic ability of Telekinesis, able to move an average of 100 kg with ease. Their Homeworld is a dim, low gravity planet and Nossidar are most comfortable at less than 1G.

Sekvekt

Planet of Origin: Vek't K'till

The Sekvekt superficially resemble meter long, dirty green lobsters with tentacles instead of claws. Their homeworld is 90% under water and they have built a thriving, though chaotic society on the ocean floors. Vek't K'till is not so much anarchistic as it is almost absurdly complex. Their society structure defies Confederation xeno-sociologists in its complexity and levels, they apparently possess precedents and convoluted protocols for any situation, and consider Interstellar cultures ridiculously simplistic. Possibly because of this, coupled with their love of Machiavellian plots, they tend to drift to the extremes of Interstellar society, making excellent politicians and military leaders at the top end and master criminals at the bottom.

Shai

Planet of Origin: Hsst

The Shai are a race of Centauroid amphibians. They have four legs used for locomotion and two arms for manipulation. They prefer the tropics, living in marshy areas of their planet, and are uncomfortable in environments that are cold or dry. Shai society is Matriarchal and young Shai are chosen for their professions by the mother upon reaching maturity. As a race, they tend to be introverted, concealing their emotions from everyone. Their society is a repressive version of socialism and is in a state of constant conflict with the Tish, a reptilian race with whom they share their planet, and indeed a common ancestry.

Tish

Planet of Origin: Hsst

The Tish are similar to the Shai in basic body structure, however they have adapted to the hot, dry deserts of their homeworld. Tish skin is hard and leathery, with sharp horns and spikes on joints and down the back. Their society is a corrupt Dictatorship, with the new leader chosen by assassinating the old one. This system may seem inherently unstable but it seems to please the Tish. It has existed this way for almost a thousand years. Like the Shai, they dislike the other race inhabiting their planet intensely and it is a credit to Anrak diplomats that they have both agreed to join the Conglomerate.

Trillium

Planet of Origin: Trillia

The Trillium are two meter tall ambulatory plants. Their heads are disk shaped and they travel on ten, radially spaced tentacles, growing out of the bottom. Vestigial gills can be seen on the body, just under the head, which has a ring of emerald-green eyes all around it. They are carnivorous, ingesting food by enzymatic action. Trillium do not possess glands and thus are not subject to emotions as most animal life forms are. This makes the Trillium very clear headed, even in dangerous situations. The Trillium are a very law-loving race and rarely become criminals.

Zniss

Planet of Origin: Zniarch

The Zniss are humanoid bipeds extremely similar to humans. They normally have grey skin, dark hair, angular features, slightly oversized heads, and tend to be under 2 meters tall, and thin. It is said that a Zniss is born with two things: a razor-sharp intellect and a bad attitude. They are smarter and more efficient than most races and they know it. The average Zniss will make it abundantly clear to all and sundry just how much better they are, numerous fights and several wars have been started in just this manner. Despite their abrasive personalities the Zniss are much sought after as scientists and scientific advisors, however, they make poor diplomats. By way of an example, the current Zniss Representative to the Nossidar Conglomerate holds the record in office of having declared war on every other member of the Conglomerate at least twice, the Confederation three times, and the Hrrilarr, Kree, and the Ashanti once each.

Varashi

Planet of Origin: Barathurm

On first sight a native of Barathurm might be mistaken for a large pile of orange-brown rocks. Varashi skin is granite-hard and the race possesses no standard body structure, coming in all shapes and sizes. Their homeworld is a heavy gravity (18 G) hellhole with a highly corrosive atmosphere, capable of reducing most starship alloys to oxidized slag within hours, the surface temperature averages out to somewhere past to boiling point of lead. Despite this the Varashi find the planet most hospitable, and seem unable to understand why most other races disdain from landing on the surface. The dense, slow-moving Varashi, while unable to directly interact with Interstellar society, remain active in Interstellar politics, and the small number of Varashi starships are the backbone of the Conglomerate mercenary Defense forces. Negotiations are under way to build Varashi starships for use in the Confederation fleet.

Yleesa

Planet of Origin: Yleia

The Yleesa are ameboid, multicellular, communal intelligences, resembling turquoise-blue animate puddles, averaging about three meters in diameter and one centimeter thick. As they (or It, if you prefer) are a communal organism, the government of Yleia acts as a consensus of all parts. The planet has a surface gravity of .5 G and the atmosphere is a mixture of carbon-dioxide and argon, making the planet unlivable for most races. Once off of their homeworld an individual Yleesa develops a personality of its own, which is integrated into the collective whole upon returning home. As individuals the Yleesa are a curious race, and so long as they remain inside their atmospheric envelope, almost impossible to kill.

Farthe'

Planet of Origin: Tran

There is something in the Farthe' physiological makeup which seems to strike a chord of panic and fear among most of the intelligent races in Known Space. To humans, for example, they look like nothing less than demons from Terran mythology; 3 to 4 meter tall, bat-winged, fanged and clawed nightmares, they can frighten and intimidate the most jaded and stout-hearted warrior. Not only humans, but nearly all races are, at the very least, uncomfortable while in the presence of one of these creatures. To the Hrrilarr, a race far removed from Humanity in most respects, they look like Urrandufel, the Claimer of the Dead, a figure from Hrrilarr mythology. Despite their imposing physical appearance, the Farthe' are an intelligent and thoughtful race, philosophical and rational in outlook. They are well-known for producing beautiful works of art, visual and auditory, and make excellent theoretical scientists, computer developers, and starship pilots, due to their intuitive grasp of complex spatial structures. There is evidence that indicates that Farthe' civilization predates all other known races by millennia and may go as far back as the long-vanished Precursor race. Whether this is true or not cannot be currently proven as Farthe' records go back only to several thousand years before the evolution of Interstellar society, due to a protracted war on Tran which decimated both planet and race. Tran is a chaotic world, populated with numerous hostile unintelligent lifeforms outside the Farthe' cities, and is best avoided by anyone not willing to fight for their survival.

Linn

Planet of Origin: Lindun

The Linn are a protoplasmic, amoeboid race, in their unmodified form they look like 50 kilo matte-grey blobs. The Linn live mostly in hot, wet climates; swamps in particular. Members of this race are shapeshifters, capable of assuming the guise of nearly any other life form of approximate mass. This, coupled with their love for subterfuge and confusion, makes the Linn excellent spies and saboteurs. With the start of the war between the Confederation and the Malavorite Empire the Linn race has become a much sought after and consulted group within Confederation politics. The Linn are also responsible for building the bulk of the Conglomerates naval forces.

Orcha

Planet of Origin: Orchiss

The Orcha race, while not physically the strangest, certainly ranks high as being one of the oddest races when taken as a whole. There is no one lifeform on the planet that is the dominant intelligence, rather any creature on Orchiss can qualify for this. Inhabitants of this planet possess a unique carbon-carbon-silicon molecular structure that allows for a near infinite electrical storage capacity in every molecule of the body. Thus, an intelligent Orcha is able, through electrical capacitance, to pass information and even sapience onto any other Orchan life-form. The Orcha do not possess centralized brains as such, instead every part of their body. acts as memory storage. Most Orcha life-forms resemble insects, in that they normally have six or more limbs, and are radially symmetrical. In an effort to stop confusing other intelligent races, and so that they will stop trying to converse with Orchan housepets, those Orcha who have achieved sentience now paint a blue stripe down the back of their carapace to denote intelligence.

Arfrr

Planet of Origin: Frrdrllanno

The Arfrr are a quadripedal mammalian race, adapted to the extreme cold (-50 C and below) of their homeworld. They average one meter in height and are covered with dense quills which resemble fur, colored various shades of grey. Arfrr are a quick-witted and curious race with the ability to learn new skills very fast. They are also consummate hunters and trackers and, with a minimum amount of technological adaptation, they can exist for short periods at higher temperatures. Many have joined the Confederations Long Range Explorer Corps and The Far Travellers. Philosophically, members of the race are loners, interacting with other Arfrr only to mate and exchange stories of their exploits, which they embellish with great enthusiasm.

"Demons"

Planet of Origin: "Lucifer"

The inhabitants of the planet "Lucifer" are immobile crystalline entities, resembling transparent colored-glass trees. They are, in effect, organic computers, capable of retaining large amounts of data. They can also telepathically control the mobile, non-sentient animals of their planet, providing them with "arms and legs" with which to accomplish the tasks that they are unable to perform themselves. "Demons" communicate via coded radio impulses which defy standard translation methods. At the time of initial contact with the Federation of Worlds they took a dim view of Humanity's incursion on their planet and, thinking them animals, attempted to order all the explorers to commit suicide. After peaceful relations had been established, the "Demons" related all this to the humans, thinking it was a big joke. Hence the reason for the planet and race names, given to them by a member of the Contact team who was known to have little sense of humour. Demons are often seen as members of Conglomerate and Confederation starship crews, acting as an interface between computer and crew, a task for which they excel, accompanied by several non-sentient "remotes", which also make them good explorers for hostile environments.

Sari

Planet of Origin: Sinnfann

The Sari are a bipedal, mammalian race, superficially resembling Humanity in physical form. They are hairless, except for their heads, from which grow a long, luxuriant growth of yellow-gold hair. Sari skin tone is pale blue, and their eyes are oversized and very sensitive to light, from infrared through to ultraviolet. They are also a very long-lived race, average life span is in the order of five thousand years. Mentally, the Sari are a philosophical and cautious species, thinking in terms of centuries instead of days. Unfortunately, they also tend to be incurious of the actions and histories of other races and do not keep track of non-Sari history, except for where it relates to them. Given time, an individual Sari can excel at any task, though they prefer non-violent occupations. Sari society is complex, and many sociologists have compared it to the Italian Renaissance of Old Earth. They have an elaborate societal structure and duelling code for insults against individuals or race. Duels are rarely to the death, first blood is normally enough to satisfy both sides. Sari consider themselves to be the pinnacle of logic and enlightenment, but are willing to allow for the fact that other races' philosophies are not without merit.

N'Dragil

Planet of Origin: Aktnar (Thandraa)

The N'Dragil are a silicon-based race with two legs and four arms, bilaterally symmetrical. They have heads, which resemble Terran wolves and bumpy, opalescent skin. Their society is Pre-Industrial and the Sari are working to indoctrinate them into the Interstellar community, and have been for over a thousand years. As the Sari consider Thandraa (their name) an experiment in sociological engineering, they have forbade any other race from contacting the N'Dragil. Interstellar society in part, and the N'Dragil as a whole, have taken to ignoring this edict and numerous members of this race have started paying to have themselves smuggled offplanet. Confederation does not mention this to the Sari for fear of political repercussions and the Sari do not bring it up for fear of being impolite, a situation that so far has worked well for all sides. N'Dragil, as a race can be considered open and honest, though it must be kept in mind that individual members of this race have little or no concept of property or privacy, and so, tend to take things without asking and barge in without being invited.

Sentri

Planet of Origin: Ralctnom

The Sentri are an insectoid race possessing radial symmetry. They rather resemble chitinous, many-legged Terran starfish with a single eyestalk protruding from the center. They are also, without argument, one of the most mindlessly violent races in Known Space. Their planet is a churned and blasted wasteland, the product of centuries-long warfare for land rights. The Sentri breed prolifically, dozens of offspring from one union, and are in constant conflict with one another for more space to sire progeny. They are also dangerously Xenophobic and will fire without provocation on any starship invading their airspace. This is considered by many a good thing, since otherwise they might gain access to space technology. The Confederation has not otherwise Closed or Restricted this system because of rich mining deposits which can be found in the asteroid belts. Any ship foolish enough to attempt a landing on the surface of Ralctnom is, without fail, blasted into fragments by the inhabitants. They make use of sonic weapons which, so far, have been completely effective on starships in their atmosphere.

Kree

Planet of Origin: Kree

The Kree are thought of by many as one of the most enigmatic races to inhabit Known Space. They do not allow any non-Kree access to their four planetary systems, with the exception of a small diplomatic station and starbase on their homeworld. Several violently regrettable incidents have taught other races to respect Kree wishes in this matter. Few have ever seen a Kree outside of the powerful suits of armor they wear. The suits resemble 2.5 to 3.5 meter tall humanoid armor, decorated with complex designs; the older the Kree, the more complex the decorations. These suits are, arguably, the most powerful individual combat units used by any race, past or present. Kree ships are equally impressive, basically hollowed-out asteroids equipped with engines, shields, and weapons. There are literally hundreds of them in orbit around each of their worlds. Kree are, for the most part, uninterested with other races affairs, however an occasional Kree warrior can be seen pursuing its own mysterious quest. All starbases have granted Kree Diplomatic Immunity with regards to carrying weapons as they rarely use them and they tend to wreak havoc when forced to surrender them. No Confederation or Allied world will attempt to stop a Kree if it can be helped, they usually do not cause trouble if allowed to go on their way unimpeded. Unconfirmed reports by eyewitnesses state that Kree outside of their armor are a combination of protoplasmic matter and energy, with an undefinable form.

Hortai-Li

Planet of Origin: Hortai

Taken on the surface, the Hortai-Li are an otherwise unremarkable race. They resemble Terran starfish, like the Sentri, however the Hortai-Li possess five limbs and have no eyestalk. They live on oxygen/nitrogen worlds with less than .5 G and prefer 0 G, hence their starships have no gravity generators. Said starships are unmistakable that they mimic the Hortai-Li form no matter the size or function. What sets the Hortai-Li apart from the rest of the universe is their Xenophobic dislike of all other races, and their odd religious fanaticism. From the best that Confederation and other researchers have been able to determine the Hortai-Li worship enduring inanimate structures. The few existing reports on this race talk of Hortai-Li worlds covered with impressive edifices, which this race revere as deities. One other facet of the Hortai-Li personality, which only contributes to their strangeness, is the fact that they are always unfailingly polite, no matter the situation, or the fact that they are about to destroy you for invading their space. They occupy an otherwise untraveled sector of the Pleiadian Wastelands, bordering on the space occupied by The Children of the Blue Suns, who apparently consider them vermin.

Yee

Planet of Origin: Drinnfann

The Yee are a race of quadrupedal mammals, resembling a cross between Terran apes and canines, they average in height at under two meters while on all fours and are entirely covered in light, downy fur in various colors. Despite the fact that the planet is Pre-Industrial, the Yee are an established race, with a planetary history extending back at least 20,000 years. As a race they have progressed through all of the various stages of technological development and, for reasons that are apparently philosophical; discarded those inventions which they considered useless or a threat to racial survival. For example, knowledge of nuclear technology exists in planetary archives, however the Yee do not use it due its potential for failure and ecological contamination. They are a cautious race, refusing to try new ideas until they have proven to both useful and safe. Survival of the species is apparently an instinctive imperative among the Yee, and they have requested that other Interstellar species respect this. They are not unreceptive to visitors and new ideas; it would seem that ideas that they consider too radical are merely rejected as unsuitable to the race.

Cygnans

Planet of Origin: Cygnus X-1

The inhabitants of the single planet distantly orbiting the star-black hole combination in the Cygnus system are an enigmatic and strange race. Physically they are protoplasmic creatures, thought to be a cross between plant and animal; resembling squat, tentacled trashcans. Their bodies are cylindrical and normally have between six and ten ropy appendages spaced randomly around it. Eyes are white disks, also spotted at random, and their mouths are on top. Cygnan skin is leathery and colored dirty grey. Their homeworld is a cold, dim place with almost no evidence that an intelligent race inhabits it. Psychologically it would appear that Cygnans have little, if any, common ground with other races. Attempts at communication with them have been almost entirely fruitless, while their language is capable of being translated, it would appear that there are almost no common referents with which to establish a dialogue. This, coupled with the fact that Cygnans appear to consider the rest of the universe little more than a distraction from their own pursuits, makes it almost impossible make any progress in inter-species communication. Entry into this system is not restricted however few non-Cygnans find any reason to go there, except astrophysicists studying the phenomena of collapsars and masochistic xeno-biologists studying the Cygnans themselves. The Cygnan spacefleet is thought to be small, though this too is conjecture, Cygnan starships are built and depart Cygnus occasionally, most upon doing so are never seen in Known Space again. Where they go is just another of the mysteries of this race.

The Children of the Blue Suns

Planet of Origin: "Home"

The Children of the Blue Suns are another enigmatic and downright peculiar race, in ways quite different from others. Eyewitness accounts of individuals encountering The Children in person describe them as looking like matte-black hemispheres with numerous small cilia or tentacles on the bottom for locomotion, there are no apparent manipulatory appendages or sense organs. Close up encounters with The Children are extremely rare, they allow no other races to land on either of their planets and, all other races consider them uninhabitable as they orbit close in around blue-white supergiant stars. Most encounters with The Children are between space vessels. Their starships are enormous structures, composed of matter and energy and resembling small stellar systems; asteroids, environmental structures, naked power sources, and fields of energy. Combat with them is at worst fruitless and, at most, pointless; the destruction of a Children vessel is almost impossible to accomplish with conventional, or even unconventional weapons. It would appear that they choose to pursue their own destinies and wish to have little to do with other races. Most intelligent beings give them a wide berth, as it is impossible to judge beforehand how they will react in any given situation.

Iric Nur

Planet of Origin: Iric-Na'thur

The Iric Nur are another race which prefers to have little or no contact with other races. They are a Small, reptilian race, rather resembling Terran Komodo Dragons, with well-developed manipulatory appendages. Their skin is smooth and usually yellow or orange. It would seem that the major reason for their withdrawal from Interstellar society is that they are in the midst of an, as yet fully unexplained, radical change in racial thinking. The best that any sociologist has been able to determine is that the Iric Nur believe that Interstellar society may be no more than a mass hallucination, brought about by overly imaginative thinkers on Iric-Na'thur. This philosophy is apparently so widely accepted across their planet that, when they encountered Imperial society, the entire Iric Nur race desired to contemplate this development to determine its veracity. Four hundred years later they are still at it, and their best minds are as yet unable to come to a conclusion as to whether or not the rest of the universe actually exists. They possess a small spacefleet, the crews of which travel the universe trying to find more evidence of the existence of Reality.

Idri

Planet of Origin: Talavecta

The Idri are considered by many Confederation scientists to be the Wild Card of the known universe. Looking at a native of Talavecta, one would not come this conclusion as they are a humanoid race, smaller and lighter than Humanity, but not much different than the Zniss or Sari. Idri tend to be covered in long, coarse hair, black shading to tan. They are bi-laterally symmetrical, possess two sexes and generally conform to the standard that can be found in most humanoid races. However, the Idri are one of the few races in Known Space of which psionic ability is an inborn, rather than a learned, talent. All Idri possess some sort of paranormal power, this varies depending upon the family to which an individual belongs. They have constructed an elaborate philosophy around their abilities which defies the best efforts of Xeno-Anthropologists to unravel.

Andavarii

Planet of Origin: Andavarian

The Andavarii are another race which has chosen to have little or no contact with Interstellar Society. They are an insectoid race, looking rather like short centipedes. Andavarii are bi-laterally symmetrical, having twelve limbs which are used for both locomotion and manipulation. Their society is a rigid and complex one, incorporating elements of socialism, capitalism, and ancestor worship, and seems to make sense only to the Andavarii. They are not overtly xenophobic, however, it would seem that the universe at large is of little interest to them. Andavarii technology is not dissimilar to Confederation standard, but as a race they build no starships and seem to use very little high technology on their planet.

Taygetan

Planet of Origin: Taygeta

The Taygatan race inhabits a hot, wet world in the Pleiades Cluster. They are a reptilian race, looking like six to ten meter long Terran snakes with a fringe of tentacles growing out from behind their heads. Their society is pre-industrial, and it would seem that they prefer this existence. They are a friendly and easygoing race, allowing starships access to their planet; Confederation.has established several cities on the surface of Taygeta and a lucrative trade has grown between the natives and Interstellar companies. It has yet to be understood by any xeno-anthropologist why the Taygetans cheerfully disdain from joining technological society, their reasons are thought to be either religious or philosophical.

Kt'Chik'Tt

Planet of Origin: Kt'Chic'T

The Kt'Chik'Tt are an insectoid race, inhabiting a dry, hot world in Pleiades space. Physically they resemble a cross between Terran fleas and cockroaches, colored various shades of green, and over a meter long. Of all the intelligent races known in the Confederation the Kt'Chik'Tt currently rank the lowest on the Foster-Bailey Scale of Intelligence. Their societies are currently at the level of the Stone Age; language and artifact building skills are still in the developmental stage, basic societal structure is tribal, small groups with a distrust of others, and the highest level of tool building in the area of weapons. The Far Travelers currently monitor the planet and travel to the surface is rare. Other than this systems location in the Pleiades Cluster, it offers little to appeal to Interstellar society.

Ilrathee

Planet of Origin: Lirath

The Ilrathee are a pre-industrial society, currently entering into the Iron Age, and boosted, no doubt, by contact with Interstellar society. It is thought by many that the Ilrathee will be capable of significant contributions to the universe at large. Physically they are a race of bipedal mammals, similar to humanity in general shape, 1.5 to 2.5 meters in height and covered with various shades of fur. Wing-like "extensors" grow from their backs, though used mostly for internal heat regulation these appendages also give the Ilrathee the ability to glide for short distances. As a race they are extremely quick, both physically and mentally; their reaction time is significantly raster than most races, and they have an intuitive grasp of complex relationships. They are curious and unencumbered by any repressive religious or philosophical system. On the downside their society is very individualistic and is thought by many to be excessively violent, combat between members is commonplace and their legal system is rather crude. Despite these shortcomings the Avalon government is working to indoctrinate this system into Interstellar society.

Cleech

Planet of Origin: Cleech

The Cleech are a bi-pedal mammalian race, closely following the humanoid form. They are covered in slick, seal-like fur and inhabit the reed and lichen strewn shores of the many lakes and seas of their homeworld. By choice their society is pre-spaceflight and the surface of their planet is home to numerous parasites inimical to other lifeforms. Because of this there is little contact with this race. However, The Cleech are rumored to posses extra-sensory abilities and this fact alone attracts visitors from around the Empire to confer with the native hetmen, for a nominal fee. These transactions take place via radio from orbiting starbases.

Kelane

Planet of Origin: Ereseth

The Kelane appear as humanoids, covered in a white chitinous exoskeleton. They are slightly larger than humans and their limbs are many jointed and sinuous. Also, their knee joints work the reverse from most humanoids, giving them a curious, loping gait. Mentally, they are an intense people and their society possesses a rigorous, complex caste system that governs all aspects of Kelane life, including sexual relations.

Sanseri

Planet of Origin: Sanser

A typical Sanser looks like a flattened, segmented ocher tube with six insect-like legs for locomotion and six human-like arms for manipulation. Surmounted by an elliptical, humanoid head. Most humanoids find the Sanser form to be slightly disturbing. Their planet is home to the famous Sanser Alpha ruins. A collection of monolithic buildings, covering an entire peninsula and over 100,000 years old. Current theory is that these structures were built by the Sansers themselves, and that the race has since fallen to their current level of farmers and herdsmen.

Shaul

Planet of Origin: Shaul

The Shaul are an odd race of what can best be described as sentient fogbanks. They are actually a collection of organic molecules and chemical compounds, much like most other intelligent races. The major difference being that the Shaul happen to have a lot more empty space in them. Despite their unusual makeup The Shaul interact well with other races and many have been known to travel off-planet, making use of specially built environmental suites. The planets atmosphere is an adverse mess of high winds, chemicals and small dangerous lifeforms.

Iszic

Planet of Origin: Iszm

The Iszm are tall humanoids, with a green skin tone and pronounced rectangular eyes. The Iszm are famous for the genetic selection of certain plants on their world and can control the growth of them for various functions, the best known are the trees that they inhabit. Entry to the planet is Restricted due to Iszm worries of other races stealing their trees and most visitors are put under constant surveillance.

Grethes

Planet of Origin: Blanchen

The Grethes are a small, sturdy race of humanoids, rather simian in appearance and covered with a thick growth of fur that covers their entire bodies. Hair color varies with the climate that each individual inhabits. There are currently only about three million Grethes inhabiting Blanchen as the planet was greatly depopulated by bacteriological weapons during the Cyborg Revolt.

Stang

Planet of Origin: Lochear

The Stang are a race of humanoids, physically identical to one another save for a pattern of indigo and lavender blotches that cover their head, neck, and shoulders. They are shorter and stouter than humans and possess a thin cream colored exoskeleton. A typical Stang is courteous, even gracious, but utterly incapable of understanding any form of organization. Because of this their society has no social structure to it. However, Stang excel at mathematics and any math oriented occupations.

Yara

Planet of Origin: Yara

The Yara are a race of quadripedal creatures whose biggest deviation from the norm is that they have four arms and four legs. They tend to be fairly short (1 to 1.5 meters) and stout, despite their size they are powerfully built. Tough, hairless brown or black skin covers them. Their society is based on caste and the only Yara that travel offplanet are members of the Warrior caste--more often than not because they are forced to leave by the more sedate members of their race. While other castes tend to be rather calm and placid, the Warrior caste of Yara are, on the average, boisterous and loud. The planet Yara is a beautiful Earth-like world that few non-Yara visit due to what visitors, even those of a non-religious outlook, refer to as "the ungodly stench". The presence of numerous organic compounds in the atmosphere of the planet has rendered the smell highly unappetizing to all but natives.

Renfel

Planet of Origin: Renfelsa

The Renfel are a race of tall, flightless avians, physically resembling 2.5 meter tall owls with manipulatory members on their wings. They tend to be brightly colored, feather markings indicating age and position in society. In general, the Renfel excel at organization, taking great delight in putting everything in its proper place. As such, they make superlative Accountants, Database Managers, Sociologists, or Supervisors.

Frenn

Planet of Origin: Katharr

The Frenn are a race of upright, bipedal reptiles. They are usually tall (2 to 3 meters) and colored dull grey to black. They have been an active and star travelling race since the time of the Old Federation and are well known throughout Known Space. Unfortunately the planet Katharr is poor in natural resources and because of this their major export is personnel. The Frenn government provides up to twenty years of schooling free of charge to all young Frenn, providing that they contract out their skills off-world and send a portion of their pay back to the home planet. While unusual, this system has worked for the Frenn for over a thousand years.

Uruslem

Planet of Origin: Uruslen

Known as The Planet of the Storytellers, Uruslen is the home to a large, imposing race. The Uruslem vaguely resemble two meter long Terran armadillos with tentacles instead of arms and legs. While physically impressive, the Uruslem are actually a fairly gentle race, though experts at defensive tactics if provoked. The reason for the planets fanciful name is that all Uruslem possess Eidetic Memory in regards to the spoken word. An Uruslem, upon hearing any non-technical dissertation, is able to remember and repeat it verbatim. Because of this the race has a long oral tradition.

Singen

Planet of Origin: Sinthral

In general shape and size the Singen are close to Humans, however they are covered in a thick, metallic-looking exoskeleton. Their heads tend to look more reptilian and they possess sharp ridges and spikes at the joints. While they do not excel in any particular skills, as a race the Singen are masters at copying other races ideas and technology. When presented with a new idea or device it is only a matter of time before a Singen will have found a way to reproduce it. The race is also very prolific and Singen can be found on most Old Imperial worlds, usually in small artisan's enclaves, or as members of the military.

Venntrane

Planet of Origin: Aradniseer

The Venntrane are a large, elephantine race, possessing six legs and six tentacles. They are covered with a thick, bright green skin and sparse body hair. Their eyes are simple photo-receptors, capable of only coarse perception; they discern fine detail through the use of subsonic echolocation. Since the Fall of the Old Empire they have maintained a small, three-planet Interstellar system, utilizing STL ramships. As they are a long-lived, slow-moving and -thinking race this poses only a minor inconvenience to them. Their planets are also home to several million non-Ventrane, stranded since the Fall. One of their planets, Illion, was once an Old Federation Sector Capitol Headquarters.

Meersha

Planet of Origin: "Enigma"

Upon first looking at them one would not assume that the Meersha are as truly peculiar as they are. They are tall and thin humanoids, possessing two arms and legs and no discernable oddities of form. Skin tone ranges from pale to ash grey and body hair is sparse and normally black or grey. It is in two ways that the Meersha differ from most other races. First is their language; it would appear to be so complex as to be nearly incomprehensible to any other race. Tenses do not exist and every word has nuances that are essentially undetectable to non-Meersha. Second is the Meersha ability to disappear at will. Quantum scientists postulate that the Meersha have the ability to perceive and move to another dimension or plane of reality not seen by other races. Meersha attempts to explain this, to them, commonplace skill have been met with little success as no other race has the linguistic capabilities of even understanding their explanation. The Meersha have a 15 planet Interstellar system that borders on the Rim worlds. They have just recently been re-discovered by Known Space, however knowledge of this race exists from before the Fall.

Urrval-Trfelan

Planet of Origin: Nurrall-Trfelan

The Urrval Dominion is a sector of space bordering on the DMZ and Sigma Draconis Wasteland, recently re-discovered by Confederation and Empire and comprising 18 systems. The Urrval-Trfelan are a vaguely reptilian race, covered in fine quills and colored in various patterns that resemble a cross between camouflage and Modern art. They are an insular and philosophical race, preferring to have minimal contact with the rest of the galaxy and worshipping a deity or ancestor named Trfelan. As an interesting physiological ability, several times a day an Urrval-Trfelan is capable of expelling a flammable liquid that ignites on contact with oxygen, making them the only known fire breathing race.