Major Species

In the vast expanse of the Five Galaxies, numerous species and civilizations have flourished, each with their own unique characteristics, cultures, and interactions. This chapter delves into the diverse tapestry of sentient beings that inhabit the Charted Space, providing a glimpse into the major species that shape the intergalactic landscape. From amphibian Lynem to avian Wrulisu, reptilian Tesu to mammalian Che-esune, the chapter explores their physical traits, cultural nuances, and relationships with other species, including humans.

While the species featured in this chapter are just a glimpse of the abundant variety of life populating the Five Galaxies, they exemplify a range of diverse civilizations that have been instrumental in shaping this universe.

Overview

Lynem
- Appearance: Familiar mammalian humanoid with a pangolin-like head, octopus eyes, bat ears, and fur-covered body. Sandy brown with dark blue speckles and vivid green highlights.
- Cultural Characteristics: Lynem societies are disdainful, and males are responsible for raising young. They have a strong bond with their offspring.
- Interactions: Disdainful attitude towards humans and relationships with other species vary.
- Notable Features: Lynem have a poor sense of taste and are active during the day.
Che-esune
- Appearance: Familiar mammalian humanoid with a horse-like head, dog ears, and a bottlenose dolphin-like snout. Covered in rubbery sandy brown skin with vivid green diamonds.
- Cultural Characteristics: Che-esune societies are aggressive and live in large packs. Males mate for life, while females are promiscuous.
- **Interactions: **Aggressive temperament, xenophobia characterizes smaller nations.
- Notable Features: Che-esune are blind, but they can produce a skunk-like spray.
Tesu
- Appearance: Octopedal reptile with tendrils, indigo serpentine eyes, and a powerful tail. Covered in sleek feathers of cream, dark brown, and ochre colors.
- Cultural Characteristics: Tesu live in packs and adapt quickly to environmental changes.
- Interactions: Flighty temperament and a parasitic species that leeches off another.
- Notable Features: Tesu can survive underwater for up to 21 minutes and consume toxic substances without harm.
Wrulisu
- Appearance: Colossal avian creature with a unique beak and stubby arms. Covered in feathery ochre plumage.
- Cultural Characteristics: Wrulisu engage in deadly competition between males for breeding rights. Family groups are led by the grandfather.
- Interactions: Irritable temperament and have a significant influence due to their size.
- Notable Features: Wrulisu can survive without drinking and have an affinity for shiny objects.
Omale
- Appearance: Unique invertebrate species characterized by its oval head with medium-length antennae and a pair of piercing mandibles.
- Cultural Characteristics: Omale individuals typically live in large packs, forming intricate social structures within their communities.
- Notable Features: Within the Omale species, packs may differentiate based on geographical location, distinct environmental adaptations, or specific cultural practices.
Hetsu
- Appearance: Large bipedal creature with a ridged head, sandy brown feline eyes, and a muscular tail. Covered in shaggy purple fur.
- Cultural Characteristics: Hetsu engage in deadly conflicts for mating and territorial disputes. Males raise young alone until they can defend themselves.
- Interactions: Irritable temperament and a cautious relationship with humans.
- Notable Features: Hetsu are active during the day and have a sensitive sense of touch.

Lynem

Physical Characteristics:

Appearance: The Lynem is a medium-sized humanoid mammal with distinct features. They have a pangolin head, two octopus eyes, bat ears, a human-like nose, and a camel-like mouth. Their body has a serpentine neck and two long, large arms that end in small paws. The Lynem has a cobra-like torso with a thick waist, stumpy insect legs, and a bird-like tail. Their body is covered in luxurious fur, with most of it being sky blue with dark blue speckles, while the rest of their body is vivid green with dark blue spirals.
Physiology: The average height of the Lynem is 3 feet (0.9 meters), and their average lifespan is 146 years. They reach maturity at around 51 years of age and begin breeding at 28 years. Each mating results in four offspring every 25 years. The Lynem population is relatively abundant. They have a temperament that can be described as disdainful. Their diet consists of animal skin, lizards, and amphibians. Interestingly, they have a poor sense of taste.

Cultural Characteristics:

Society and Governance: Lynem society follows a unique familial structure. Males are primarily responsible for raising the young, and they develop a strong bond with their offspring. Females, on the other hand, play a less prominent role in parenting and often engage in other societal pursuits. Lynem society places value on individualism, self-reliance, and personal achievements.
Technology: The Lynem have achieved a high level of technological advancement. They have developed tools and machinery suited for their physical capabilities, including intricate craftsmanship in metalwork and fine arts. Their technology focuses on practical applications and improving their overall quality of life.
Arts and Traditions: The Lynem possess a rich artistic heritage. They excel in various art forms, including sculpture, painting, and music. Their artistic expressions often reflect the beauty of nature and their reverence for the natural world. Traditional ceremonies and rituals are an integral part of their culture, celebrating significant life events and honoring their ancestors.

Interactions with Other Species:

Relationship with Humans: The Lynem have a somewhat disdainful attitude towards humans. They view humans as less sophisticated and hold a certain level of superiority in their interactions. However, they engage in trade and diplomatic relations when it aligns with their interests and benefits their society.
Relationships with Other Species: Lynem interactions with other major species in the setting vary depending on their perception of their cultural values and compatibility. They seek alliances and partnerships with species that share their appreciation for nature and artistic endeavors. They may show disdain or indifference towards species that they deem as lacking in cultural sophistication.

Notable Subspecies or Factions: There are no notable subspecies or factions within the Lynem species.

Important Historical Events: The Lynem have a long history of cultural preservation and self-reliance. They have weathered various conflicts and challenges by maintaining a strong sense of identity and tradition. Throughout history, they have showcased their artistic achievements and contributed to the enrichment of the cultural tapestry within the Five Galaxies.

Strengths and Weaknesses:

Strengths: The Lynem possess impressive dexterity and agility, allowing them to excel in artistic endeavors and craftsmanship. Their luxurious fur provides them with natural protection against the elements. They have excellent night vision and acute hearing, making them adept at sensing their surroundings.
Weaknesses: Despite their physical abilities, the Lynem have relatively smaller physical stature and less strength compared to some other species. Their disdainful temperament may hinder diplomatic negotiations and relationships with other species, potentially leading to conflicts.

Overall Influence and Presence: The Lynem, with their artistic talents and unique culture, have made their presence known in the Five Galaxies. Their contributions to the artistic and cultural landscape have garnered admiration and respect from those who appreciate their craftsmanship and creative expressions.

Che-esune

Physical Characteristics:

Appearance: The Che-esune is a medium-sized humanoid mammal with distinct features. They have a horse head, dog ears, and a bottlenose dolphin-like snout. Their body features a thick neck and two medium-length arms that end in two-toed hooves. They are covered in rubbery skin, with one half sandy brown with vivid green speckles and the other half black and light blue separated by a thin gray line. The lower body is beige with vivid green diamond patterns.
Physiology: The Che-esune has an average height of 5 feet (1.5 meters) and an average lifespan of 131 years. They reach maturity at around 46 years of age and begin breeding at 27 years. Each mating results in five offspring every 34 years. The Che-esune population is excessive in numbers. They have an aggressive temperament. Their diet primarily consists of fruits.

Cultural Characteristics:

Society and Governance: Che-esune society revolves around family units and massive family groups. Males mate for life, while females engage in secret promiscuity. The breeding pair leads the massive family group, and young males typically leave their families to join large male groups once they reach maturity. The society is structured hierarchically, with the breeding pair and older males holding leadership roles.
Technology: The Che-esune has a limited level of technological advancement. Their focus is primarily on practical tools and equipment that aid in their survival and defense. They have developed simple implements for gathering and processing fruits, as well as basic weapons for self-defense.
Arts and Traditions: The Che-esune’s cultural expressions are deeply rooted in their communal rituals and celebrations. They have unique dances and vocalizations that signify important life events, such as mating rituals and group bonding. Their artwork often incorporates natural elements and vibrant colors, reflecting their connection to the environment.

Interactions with Other Species:

Relationship with Humans: Due to their aggressive temperament and blind nature, Squats have had limited interactions with humans. They are wary and prone to defensive behaviors when encountering unfamiliar species. Che-esune-human interactions are rare and often tense, with both sides exercising caution.
Relationships with Other Species: The Che-esune’s aggressive nature and territorial tendencies make them prone to conflicts with other species. They fiercely protect their resources and territories, often engaging in territorial disputes with neighboring groups or species. However, they do form alliances and cooperative relationships with certain species when it serves their interests.

Notable Subspecies or Factions: There are no notable subspecies or factions within the Che-esune species.

**Important Historical Events: **The Che-esune’s history is marked by ongoing territorial conflicts and competition for resources. They have adapted to various environments and developed survival strategies that emphasize group cohesion and defensive capabilities. The formation of large male groups and their hierarchical social structure has played a crucial role in their continued survival.

Strengths and Weaknesses:

Strengths: The Che-esune’s tentacle arms provide them with versatility and dexterity in handling objects and performing tasks. Their rubbery skin offers natural protection against certain environmental hazards. Their sense of hearing and vocalizations serve as effective means of communication within their group.
Weaknesses: The Che-esune’s blindness limits their visual perception and ability to navigate complex environments. When fatigued, their intelligence and decision-making capabilities may be compromised. Their aggressive temperament and territorial nature can hinder diplomatic relations and lead to conflicts.

Overall Influence and Presence: The Che-esune species, with their unique physical attributes and aggressive nature, have a significant presence in the Five Galaxies. While they may not actively seek interactions with other species, their territorial presence and occasional encounters with neighboring groups contribute to the dynamics of the setting.

Tesu

Physical Characteristics:

Appearance: The Tesu is a large, unique, octopedal reptile with distinct features. It has a narrow head covered with tendrils, two indigo serpentine eyes that are fully retractable, short ears, and no visible nose. Its long jaw is filled with blunt teeth. The Tesu has a thick neck, pointed shoulders, and a tubular torso. It possesses two useless wings and eight short, spindly legs, along with a heavy tail. The Tesu’s body is covered in sleek feathers. It has a cream color on one half and slate dark brown on the other, separated by a thin pale green line. There is also a strip down its back with chocolate brown and ochre stripes.
Physiology: The Tesu stands at an average height of 7 feet (2.1 meters) and has an average lifespan of 80 years. They reach maturity at around 30 years of age, and both males and females are ready to breed at this stage. Each breeding results in six eggs every decade. The Tesu population is limited in numbers. They have a flighty temperament and primarily consume amphibians and water plants.

Cultural Characteristics:

Society and Governance: Tesu society follows a pattern of pairing up with a new partner whenever they are ready to mate. Females actively compete to attract males during the breeding season. The young Tesu males typically leave their families and choose to live independently once they reach maturity. Social structure and governance within Tesu society are relatively loose, with a focus on individual autonomy.
Technology: The Tesu have a limited level of technological advancement. Their focus is primarily on practical tools and equipment that aid in their survival and adaptation to different environments. They have developed specialized implements for gathering food and building shelters, using materials available in their surroundings.
Arts and Traditions: Tesu culture revolves around their ability to adapt quickly to environmental changes. They value resourcefulness, innovation, and the sharing of knowledge. Their artistic expressions often incorporate natural elements and movements inspired by the creatures and landscapes of their environment. Traditional ceremonies and rituals celebrate the cycles of life and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

Interactions with Other Species:

Relationship with Humans: The Tesu maintain a relatively flighty attitude towards humans. Their rapid adaptation to environmental changes often leads to encounters with human settlements, which can be met with cautious curiosity or evasive behavior. The Tesu’s parasitic nature and unique abilities may evoke fascination or wariness among humans.
Relationships with Other Species: Tesu interactions with other major species in the setting depend on the compatibility of their adaptations and behaviors. They establish relationships based on mutual benefit, particularly with species that offer resources or symbiotic opportunities. Their flighty temperament can make long-term alliances challenging, but they adapt quickly to changing circumstances and often find themselves in various partnerships.

Notable Subspecies or Factions: There are no notable subspecies or factions within the Tesu species.

Important Historical Events: The Tesu’s history is defined by their parasitic nature and their ability to adapt swiftly to environmental changes. They have navigated various challenges by forming short-term alliances and relying on their resourcefulness. The Tesu’s ability to thrive in diverse habitats has allowed them to expand their presence across different regions within the Five Galaxies.

Strengths and Weaknesses:

Strengths: The Tesu possess remarkable strength, enabling them to lift nine times their own weight. Their quick adaptation to environmental changes gives them a significant advantage in surviving and thriving in diverse conditions. They are skilled at leeching off another species, benefiting from the resources and symbiotic relationships they establish.
Weaknesses: Despite their physical capabilities, the Tesu’s flighty temperament may hinder their ability to form long-lasting alliances or engage in sustained cooperation. Their parasitic nature may lead to strained relationships with certain species that perceive them as exploitative or disruptive.

Overall Influence and Presence: The Tesu species, with their unique physiology and adaptability, have a noticeable presence in the Five Galaxies. Their ability to rapidly adjust to environmental changes allows them to occupy diverse territories and establish dynamic relationships with other species. The Tesu’s parasitic nature and resourcefulness contribute to the intricate ecological web within the setting.

Wrulisu

Physical Characteristics:

Appearance: The Wrulisu is a colossal, unique, avian species with distinct features. It has a wide head, two salmon pink feline eyes, and a top-heavy beak. The Wrulisu possesses a thin neck and two stubby, useless arms. The species has two stubby large forelegs and two long, powerful back legs, with no tail. The head, neck, shoulders, and arms of the Wrulisu are covered in tiny feathers, while the rest of its body is adorned with rigid feathers. The Wrulisu are completely ochre in color.
Physiology: The Wrulisu towers at an average height of 87 feet (26.5 meters) and has an average lifespan of 120 years. They reach maturity at around 20 years of age, at which point they are ready to breed. Each breeding period results in three offspring every decade. The Wrulisu population is abundant, with many individuals existing within the species. They have an irritable temperament and primarily consume fish and herbs.

Cultural Characteristics:

Society and Governance: Wrulisu society revolves around intense competition between males during breeding periods. Males vie for breeding rights, often engaging in deadly confrontations where the winner earns the opportunity to mate while the loser succumbs to his wounds. The Wrulisu family groups are massive and led by the grandfather figure, who holds authority and guides the group’s decisions. Young males leave their birth families when they reach breeding age to join new families.
Technology: The Wrulisu species has achieved a significant level of technological advancement. They possess advanced tools and machinery that cater to their avian physiology and specific needs. Their technology is geared towards enhancing their hunting skills, improving agricultural practices, and enabling efficient communication and transportation within their large family groups.
Arts and Traditions: Wrulisu culture encompasses vibrant artistic expressions that celebrate their avian heritage and natural surroundings. They create intricate feather-based artwork, perform awe-inspiring aerial displays, and compose melodic songs reminiscent of their unique vocal abilities. Traditional rituals and ceremonies mark important life stages and are deeply rooted in their cultural identity.

Interactions with Other Species:

Relationship with Humans: The Wrulisu species maintains a cautious relationship with humans due to their irritable temperament and the potential for conflicts during breeding periods. While they are not openly hostile, they prefer to maintain their distance and have limited direct interactions. Humans may admire the Wrulisu for their impressive size and unique appearance, but they are careful not to provoke them.
Relationships with Other Species: Wrulisu interactions with other major species in the setting are influenced by their territorial nature and the challenges of coexisting with other large creatures. They establish boundaries and engage in negotiations with species that share their habitats to minimize conflicts and ensure the sustainable use of resources. Wrulisu family groups often form alliances with other avian species, utilizing their combined strength and skills for mutual protection.

Notable Subspecies or Factions: Within the Wrulisu species, various factions and subgroups may emerge based on geographical location, family lineage, or specific cultural practices. These divisions can lead to distinct variations in traditions, beliefs, and social structures within different Wrulisu communities.

Important Historical Events: Wrulisu history is marked by intense competition and the intricate dynamics of their family groups. The tradition of deadly confrontations among males during breeding periods has shaped their society and ensured the survival of the fittest. Over time, the Wrulisu have adapted their technological advancements to support their communal lifestyle and protect their territories from encroachment by other species.

Strengths and Weaknesses:

Strengths: The Wrulisu’s enormous size and physical strength give them a significant advantage in hunting and defense. Their advanced technology allows them to optimize their natural abilities, enhancing their efficiency in various tasks. The Wrulisu’s ability to survive underwater for extended periods and consume toxic substances without harm provides them with additional adaptability.
Weaknesses: The Wrulisu’s irritable temperament and territorial nature can sometimes hinder peaceful interactions with other species. Their large size requires substantial resources for sustenance and shelter, making them vulnerable to scarcity or habitat loss. The pungent odor produced by their scent glands can also be a disadvantage, potentially alerting predators or deterring potential allies.

Overall Influence and Presence: The Wrulisu species, with their colossal stature, advanced technology, and territorial nature, commands a noticeable presence within the Five Galaxies. Their intricate family structures and competitive breeding practices have shaped their cultural identity and interactions with other species. The Wrulisu’s ability to survive in diverse environments and adapt their technology to suit their avian physiology has contributed to their influence in their respective territories.

Omale

Physical Characteristics:

Appearance: The Omale is a unique invertebrate species characterized by its oval head with medium-length antennae and a pair of piercing mandibles. It lacks arms but possesses a flexible thorax with a wasp waist and a small round abdomen. The Omale has a single bony leg, and its body is covered in spikes and thick hairs. It displays a metallic grey coloration with light green stripes.
Physiology: With an average height of 34 feet (10.4 meters), the Omale has a relatively short lifespan of 51 years. They reach maturity at around 13 years of age, becoming capable of breeding at 8 years. Each breeding cycle results in the production of 296 eggs every 9 years. The Omale population is plentiful, with numerous individuals found within their territories. They possess a flighty temperament and sustain themselves on a diet primarily consisting of fungi and eggs.

Cultural Characteristics:

Society and Governance: Omale individuals typically live in large packs, forming intricate social structures within their communities. The packs are led by dominant individuals who establish hierarchies based on physical prowess, intelligence, or other notable attributes. Decision-making is often a collective process, with input from various members of the pack. Cooperation and coordination are vital to their survival and success.
Technology: The Omale have developed a unique understanding of their environment and have adapted their technology accordingly. Their advancements focus on enhancing their natural abilities, such as sensory perception, defensive mechanisms, and efficient communication within their pack. They utilize tools and structures crafted from materials available in their surroundings to meet their specific needs.
Arts and Traditions: Omale culture emphasizes adaptability, resilience, and resourcefulness. Their artistic expressions manifest through intricate patterns woven into their habitat structures, storytelling that chronicles their pack’s history and legends, and rhythmic movements that reflect their coordinated pack dynamics. Traditional rituals celebrate significant events within their society and strengthen the bonds between pack members.

Interactions with Other Species:

Relationship with Humans: The Omale’s flighty temperament and unique physiology often make them wary of close interactions with humans. They prefer to maintain a certain distance and observe from afar. However, they recognize the potential benefits of alliances and trade relationships and may engage in limited interactions with humans when their interests align.
Relationships with Other Species: The Omale’s interactions with other major species in the setting depend on the specific circumstances and dynamics of their territories. They establish boundaries and territories, avoiding unnecessary conflicts. While they are generally flighty and unpredictable, they can form alliances or enter into mutually beneficial arrangements with species that share their ecosystems or possess complementary strengths.

Notable Subspecies or Factions: Within the Omale species, packs may differentiate based on geographical location, distinct environmental adaptations, or specific cultural practices. These variations can lead to different factions or subgroups with unique traditions, social structures, or hunting strategies.

Important Historical Events: Omale history is shaped by their ability to adapt to the slightest environmental changes, which can prove fatal. The development of their unique defensive mechanisms, such as spitting a foul-smelling fluid, has contributed to their survival. They have experienced conflicts and challenges stemming from unpredictable behaviors during highly stressful situations, which have shaped their approach to societal stability and self-preservation.

Strengths and Weaknesses:

Strengths: The Omale’s flighty nature and quick adaptability enable them to respond effectively to changing environmental conditions. Their unique physiology, including the ability to spit a foul-smelling fluid, acts as a deterrent against potential threats. The intricate social structures within their packs foster strong cooperation and coordination, enhancing their chances of survival and success.
Weaknesses: The Omale’s flighty temperament can sometimes hinder their ability to establish long-term alliances or maintain peaceful interactions. Their susceptibility to stress-induced aggression and unpredictability poses challenges in maintaining stable relationships. They rely heavily on their environment for sustenance, making them vulnerable to fluctuations in the availability of fungi and eggs.

Overall Influence and Presence: The Omale, with their unique appearance and adaptable nature, maintain a significant presence within their territories across the Five Galaxies. Their intricate social structures, resilient cultural practices, and innovative technologies enable them to navigate their environments and establish a sustainable existence. The Omale’s ability to respond swiftly to changing conditions and their intrinsic defensive mechanisms contribute to their influence in their respective ecosystems.

Hetsu

Physical Characteristics:

Appearance: The Hetsu is a very large bipedal creature with a ridged head covered in spikes. It possesses two wide sandy brown eyes located on the back of its head, no visible ears, and a long trunk. The creature also has a pair of piercing mandibles. It stands on two stubby, useless arms and has a protruding ribcage with a concave stomach. The Hetsu has two stubby, large legs that end in hooked talons, and it possesses a muscular tail. The head of the Hetsu is covered in a thin slime, while the rest of its body is covered in shaggy fur. It exhibits a unique purple coloration.
Physiology: With an average height of 16 feet (4.9 meters), the Hetsu has a relatively long lifespan of 160 years. They reach maturity at around 46 years of age and can breed at 28 years. Each breeding cycle results in the production of four eggs every 19 years. The Hetsu population is excessive, with numerous individuals found within their territories. They have an irritable temperament and sustain themselves on a diet primarily consisting of carrion and grass.

Cultural Characteristics:

Society and Governance: Hetsu individuals engage in competitive behaviors, often leading to deadly conflicts, particularly among males. The species does not have a structured family unit, and the males are responsible for raising the young alone until they are capable of defending themselves. The Hetsu value independence and self-sufficiency in their societal dynamics.
Technology: The Hetsu do not possess advanced technological capabilities. Instead, they rely on their physical attributes and instincts to navigate their environments. They utilize their powerful legs and talons for hunting and defense.
Arts and Traditions: Hetsu culture does not focus on traditional artistic expressions or elaborate rituals. Instead, their cultural identity is primarily shaped by their physical prowess, survival instincts, and individualistic tendencies.

Interactions with Other Species:

Relationship with Humans: Due to their irritable temperament and relatively limited interactions, the Hetsu maintain a cautious and distant relationship with humans. They tend to avoid direct conflicts but will defend themselves if provoked. Humans may observe and study the Hetsu from a distance, respecting their territorial boundaries.
Relationships with Other Species: The Hetsu’s interactions with other major species in the setting are minimal due to their independent nature and preference for solitary existence. They are known to coexist within their ecosystems, but their interactions are often limited to sharing resources and maintaining a delicate balance within the food chain.

Notable Subspecies or Factions: Within the Hetsu species, variations may exist based on geographical location, adaptations to specific environments, or the development of unique physical attributes. These variations can lead to different factions or subgroups with specialized hunting techniques or distinct physical characteristics.

Important Historical Events: The history of the Hetsu is largely shaped by their competitive nature and the deadly conflicts that arise from territorial disputes and mating rituals. The ability of males to raise young alone has contributed to their survival as a species and the passing down of adaptive traits from one generation to the next.

Strengths and Weaknesses:

Strengths: The Hetsu possess physical attributes that make them formidable hunters and defenders. Their powerful legs, talons, and: long trunk provide them with advantages in various aspects of survival. Their independent nature allows them to adapt quickly to changing circumstances and rely on their instincts for self-preservation.
Weaknesses: The Hetsu’s irritable temperament and limited social interactions may hinder their ability to form alliances or cooperate in large groups. Their dependency on carrion as a food source can sometimes pose challenges when it comes to sustaining themselves during periods of scarcity. They may also be susceptible to environmental changes that affect the availability of resources within their habitats.

Overall Influence and Presence: The Hetsu, with their unique appearance and independent nature, hold a significant presence within their territories across the Five Galaxies. Their physical prowess and adaptability contribute to their influence within their respective ecosystems. While their interactions with other species are minimal, their presence within the food chain and their ability to shape their environments play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of nature.