00: OJAXIA

SPECIALTIES: UNKNOWN

Summary

Dead planets hold no tales.

01: ALPH'EA

SPECIALTIES: HISTORY, DIPLOMACY, LAW
WALKERS: LAND, OCEAN, HYBRID, DEEP SEA, CAVERNS

Summary

The main planet of the Prime planetary system, Alph'Ea stands as the epitome of cultural preservation and technological advancement. Known as the “Capital of Culture”, Alph'Ea boasts a unique mission of conserving and celebrating cultural aspects from both the past and the future, regardless of the planet or species. This dedication is evident in the planet's architecture, societal customs, and way of life, together serving as a testament to the rich tapestry of heritage that defines the Alphean civilization.Alph'Ea also holds the honor of being the battleground where Alpheans emerged victorious in the interspecies war, solidifying its status as a symbol of resilience and triumph for the entire Prime system. Moreover, Alph’Ea is the sole planet to share a connection with the Prime system's spiritual plane, Ea. This ethereal realm occasionally manifests Ean creatures, which roam the planet, offering contracts to unsuspecting individuals. However, these contracts are not for the faint-hearted, requiring a single-minded determination and strong resolve to navigate the intricacies of their terms.The population of Alph'Ea is notably diverse compared to the other planets in the Prime system, comprising various subgroups of Alpheans. While a majority of Alpheans are landwalkers (approximately 60%), the rest of the population is comprised of oceanwalkers and hybridwalkers, with an elusive few even being deep sea oceanwalkers from a forgotten age.

Academic Oligarchy

Alph'Ea's political landscape is deeply intertwined with academia, mirroring its identity as a sprawling university planet. Governance is often trusted to a congress composed of esteemed academic professors, with the planet effectively operating as a colossal educational institution. Those who call Alph'Ea home typically occupy roles within the realms of education, research, or administration, actively contributing to the planet's intellectual endeavors.As the primary planet of the Prime planetary system and the “Capital of Culture”, Alph'Ea boasts a unique distinction in specializing in the preservation and celebration of cultural heritage from both past and future epochs. This dedication to cultural preservation is evident in the planet's distinctive architecture and way of life, serving as a living testament to the diverse and rich tapestry of the Alphean civilization. Notably, Alph'Ea stands as the pivotal battleground where the Alpheans emerged triumphant in the interspecies war, cementing its status as a beacon of resilience and victory for the entire Prime system.Alph'Ea holds a singular connection with the Prime system's spiritual plane, Ea, a mystical realm intertwined with the planet's existence. Periodically, manifestations of Ean creatures materialize across Alph'Ea, presenting individuals with enigmatic contracts that demand unwavering strength of mind and body to navigate. This phenomenon underscores the planet's enigmatic and multifaceted nature, offering both opportunities and challenges to its inhabitants.

Influence

Alph'Ea is a veritable melting pot of cultural influences, with each region boasting its own distinct blend of traditions and customs. It is crucial to recognize that the cultural landscape of Alph'Ea is far from homogeneous, and it transcends narrow Western or Hollywood-centric perceptions present on Earth. Instead, Alph'Ea's diversity mirrors a fusion of global influences, with each region reflecting aspects reminiscent of various continents and countries present on Earth. If you want to know more about each region and their real-world cultural parallels for worldbuilding, they are listed below.
• Southern Alph’Ea: Oceanic
• Northern Alph’Ea: Nordic and Northeast European
• Eastern Alph'Ea: Southeast European and Mediterranean
• Western Alph'Ea: African and North American
• Central Alph'Ea: Latin American and Southeast AsianThe Bureau is another staple in Alph’Ea, representing different facets of Alph'Ea's cultural mosaic, sprawling across the entire planet, with each region contributing to the vibrant tapestry of Alph'Ean culture. Even the underwater realms of Alph'Ea have their own distinctive cultural expressions, abstracting concepts from the surface world and infusing them with imaginative twists.Characters hailing from Alph'Ea may exhibit accents and speech patterns influenced by this rich diversity of cultural backgrounds. Alph'Ea presents an opportunity to explore cultural richness beyond mainstream portrayals, urging storytellers to draw inspiration from a wide array of global cultures. While some characters may possess attributes reminiscent of the USA, they are depicted as immigrants to Alph'Ea rather than native inhabitants, allowing other cultural perspectives to shine. Storytellers are encouraged to embrace a plethora of cultural influences and languages, fostering a narrative environment that is both rich and inclusive within the diverse tapestry of Alph'Ea.

Ea

Ea exists as an immaterial realm that intertwines with Alph'Ea, serving as the eerie homeland to the Eans. This spectral planet is a profound anomaly, shrouded in mystery and eluding complete understanding to even the most dogged scientist. It is known that Eans may breach through gates scattered around Alph'Ea, connections between Ea and Alph’Ea that are remnants of the ancient war that granted Alpheans their independence from Alphas. However, an Ean crossing into Alph’Ea is regarded as a tragic event, for their supercharged bodies unleash devastation upon their arrival, claiming the lives of Alpheans in their wake. Gates where fresh crossings occur are deemed perilous due to residual energy, and it is advised to avoid them at all costs.Eans themselves are timeless beings, ensnared in the perpetual cycle of rebirth within Ea since their inception. Whether by murder or other means, each death merely serves as a transition, propelling them back into existence. This ceaseless cycle has left Eans weary of life itself, prompting many to seek an end to their eternal plight. Upon breaching through to Alph'Ea, some Eans choose to embrace their final demise on Alph’Ea, bringing an end to their cycle of rebirth. Those rare few who choose to continue their journey beyond Ea are driven by curiosity and wanderlust, shown by individuals like Jaycelin and Seretaya.

The Skies Above

The main planet, home to the Eans, has weathered significant upheaval during past conflicts, leaving indelible marks on its atmosphere attributed to the reigns of the Red King and Blue Queen, believed to be Eans that ruled over Ea.Under the Red King's rule, the landscape was cloaked in a perpetual crimson hue, with days stretching into prolonged periods and vibrant sunsets and sunrises casting fiery red glows across the horizon. The oceans take on shades reminiscent of blood, constant even under the veil of night.Conversely, during the reign of the Blue Queen, the atmosphere underwent a transformative shift, becoming exceptionally clear and providing unobstructed views of the stars and the galaxy, including the rest of the Prime System. Prior to the war, natural phenomena known as "Early Blues", where the oceans lit up in a sparkling blue glow during sunrises, a spectacle that has been recreated with artificial, blue-tinted lights in the post-war era. Despite their breathtaking visual impact, these atmospheric alterations have no bearing on the planet's weather patterns, crops, or vegetation, leaving the Alpheans intrigued by their origins and purpose.An absence of Yellow Royalty results in an imbalance of colors in Alph'Ea's skies, leading to this unusual atmospheric phenomenon, these shifts offer a unique and visually captivating aspect to the planet's landscape. However, despite their mesmerizing allure, the atmospheric changes during these periods often evoke a sense of unease or disquiet among the inhabitants. The Red King's era exudes an atmosphere tinged with post-apocalyptic undertones, standing in stark contrast to the serene tranquility of the Blue Queen's reign.

The Deep

In Alph'Ea, the concept of "deep sea borne" Alpheans teeters on the edge of myth and legend. Deep Sea Alpheans are often rumored to have strange and off-putting mutations, scaring even the most confident oceanwalkers away from diving too deep into the waters of Alph’Ea. However, following the aftermath of the last great war with the deep ocean inhabitants, the depths of the oceans are perceived by Alpheans as desolate and devoid of life, Deep Sea Alpheans are nothing more than old tales for unruly oceanwalkers. Tales of these enigmatic beings weave a tapestry of mystery and fascination among Alpheans, yet tangible proof of their existence remains elusive.

02: ONO

SPECIALTIES: MEDICINE, TOURISM, ARTS
WALKERS: OCEAN, HYBRID, DEEP SEA

Summary

Ono, the medicinal planet of the Prime System, boasts a unique duality as both the hub of the system's pharmaceutical industry and its premier party destination. Beneath the surface of its vast oceans, countless oceanwalkers toil by day, only to revel in the vibrant nightlife of the planet's myriads of bars and clubs. However, Ono also maintains stringent border policies, ensuring a closed-off culture under the firm rule of their King, Vak Velani Vexok.King Vexok upholds strict visa requirements to safeguard the planet's pharmaceutical exports and protect against potential competitors and invasive threats. Despite this insular approach, visitors who manage to navigate Ono's borders are invariably treated to an unforgettable experience, immersing themselves in the intriguing and sometimes eccentric "Florida man" culture that permeates the planet.

Constitutional Monarchy

Ono's governmental structure mirrors constitutional monarchy, where power is dispersed among elected officials alongside the main prince, known as "Vak" or the King. While Vak holds substantial influence, he serves primarily as a neutral arbiter mediating between different political factions. This system ensures power distribution across multiple branches of government, fostering a delicate balance of authority and preventing any single entity from monopolizing control.

The Skies Above

Ono stands as a dazzling jewel of aquatic beauty within the system, presenting mesmerizing vistas of shimmering blues, purples, and delicate pinks that captivate observers from space. Its surface resembles a pastel candy wonderland, enchanting all who behold it. However, during storms, the usual vibrant hues dim slightly, obscured by dark clouds casting shadows over the landscape.Delving into Ono's rich history unveils a tale of ancient civilizations, much like those found on other planets, tragically brought to ruin by devastating wars. Today, echoes of this bygone era linger in the form of ancient architectural marvels scattered across the landscape. Ono was among the earliest planets to be colonized, giving rise to a distinctive architectural style reminiscent of the grandeur of the Greek and Roman empires, infused with the coastal charm of Mediterranean countries. Structures, particularly those perched atop slanted mountain peaks, draw inspiration from the picturesque landscapes of Santorini.Despite its breathtaking beauty, Ono's atmosphere is denser than other planets, necessitating visitors to take medication to counter its nauseating effects. Thankfully, Ono's native inhabitants have adapted adeptly to these conditions, thriving in the unique environmental challenges presented by their stunning aquatic home.

Tourism and Culture

Ono's primary exports revolve around tourism and pharmaceuticals, with the latter benefiting immensely from the planet's abundant natural resources. Visitors are drawn to Ono for its vibrant party scene and luxurious resorts, often guided by the mysterious allure of Ono’s vast history and royal family. However, gaining entry to Ono proves challenging due to stringent border control measures and costly visa requirements, deterring all but the most determined travelers.While Ono warmly welcomes tourists up front, locals often regard them with a degree of skepticism, as many visitors fail to respect the planet's customs and traditions. This disparity in cultural understanding often leads to tensions between visitors and residents, highlighting the complexities of interplanetary tourism. In essence, Ono encapsulates destinations like Ibiza, offering both unparalleled beauty and the intricate dynamics of navigating a multicultural society.

The Great Storm

Every year, Ono experiences a spectacular event known as the "Great Storm," a week-long tempest that engulfs its entire surface. This phenomenon disrupts communications with other planets, effectively isolating Ono from the rest of the Alphean system during its duration. Onoians have grown to anticipate and respect the Great Storm, recognizing its vital role in both the planet's ecosystem and their own survival.During the Great Storm, Onoians typically take a week off from their regular activities, seeking refuge indoors to ensure their safety. The storm unleashes powerful currents of water, rendering the surface perilous for anyone venturing too close. This enforced period of seclusion offers Onoians an opportunity for introspection, allowing them to reflect on the significance of their planet's natural rhythms and the interconnectedness of their society.
The primary purpose of the Great Storm is to oxygenate Ono's waters, rendering it suitable for Alphean life. This crucial process ensures the planet's habitability and sustains life throughout the year.Among Onoians, there are whispers and speculation regarding the potential influence or even control of the Great Storm by the planet's royal family. This suspicion stems from the fact that the royal family possesses the sole piece of occupied land on Ono’s surface — a detail that many find intriguing, considering that other Onoians have tried and failed to inhabit surrounding islands. However, whether the storm is a natural phenomenon or guided by royal intervention remains a topic of speculation and intrigue among online theorists.The Great Storm holds a deeply ingrained place in Onoian culture and history, tracing back to the earliest days of the Onoian empire. It serves as a symbol of resilience, adaptation, and the enduring bond between the planet and its people. As Onoians weather the storm year after year, they reaffirm their commitment to their home and its continued prosperity in the face of nature's formidable forces.

The Deep

Deep Sea Alpheans, exemplified by individuals like Wun, constitute a rare and enigmatic subgroup distinct from the oceanwalkers prevalent on planets like Ono. Having undergone thousands of years of evolution, Deep Sea Alpheans exhibit drastic physiological adaptations to thrive in the extreme conditions of the deep sea. Their unique burial customs reflect their intimate connection with the ocean, as bodies are reverently consigned to sink into the abyssal depths, eventually becoming integrated into the intricate ecosystem through consumption by marine flora and fauna.The deep sea itself is characterized by its unforgiving environment, inhabited by a myriad of creatures uniquely adapted to survive in its stark and barren expanses. These deep sea denizens display a diverse array of feeding habits, spanning from carnivorous predators to omnivorous scavengers, and encompass a vast range of sizes, from the colossal to the minuscule. Encounters with these enigmatic creatures are rare occurrences, often evoking a mixture of awe and curiosity tempered by the inherent dangers lurking within the dark depths.Much like their counterparts among the Atlussans from lower circles, Deep Sea Alpheans have evolved traits suited to their lightless environment. Among them, characteristics such as blindness, corruption, or anatomical anomalies are prevalent, reflecting the evolutionary journey shaped by the perpetual struggle to thrive amidst the perpetual darkness that pervades their deep-sea domain. However, these Alpheans differ from the folklores present about Deep Sea culture on Alph’Ea, with those Alpheans supposedly having even more drastic mutations. Many theorists use deep sea Onoians as evidence that Alph’ea once had its own thriving deep sea culture.

03: XUXIA

SPECIALTIES: AGRICULTURE, FARMING, FOOD
WALKERS: LAND, HYBRID

Summary

The food planet, Xuxia, stands apart from the rest of the system, boasting a vibrant, vertically oriented landscape teeming with life. Above ground, lush forests stretch as far as the eye can see, while beneath the surface, a labyrinth of caverns and caves hides untold mysteries. However, Xuxia is no ordinary destination for tourists; those who approach with the wrong mindset may find themselves ensnared as prey for the colossal carnivorous plants that lurk within the dense foliage.Regarded as a living entity, Xuxia’s ecosystem and planet operate in symbiosis, requiring sustenance to thrive. Nutrients are gleaned from the remains of fallen creatures, including unfortunate rangers, hapless locals, or unwitting visitors who stray too far from safety. Navigating this treacherous realm demands caution and guidance, lest one succumb to the insatiable hunger of Xuxia's flesh-craving inhabitants.

Theocratic Cult

Xuxia's political system is deeply intertwined with the planet itself, reflecting a theocratic cult-like hierarchy. Oculum, acting as spiritual leader, interprets the will of Xuxia, who is revered as both queen and deity. While other political figures may exist, the ultimate authority rests with Xuxia, whose desires shape the planet's direction and governance.

Architecture

Xuxia's cities are a testament to the planet's extraordinary biodiversity and the connection between the planet and her inhabitants. Each settlement boasts a unique form, intricately woven into the fabric of the landscape. Some towns find their home nestled within towering trees; their trunks adorned with intricate carvings that pay homage to the planet's natural wonders, the height of the carvings a testament to the town’s age. Others are carved directly into the rugged faces of mountains, their structures blending seamlessly with the rocky terrain.Yet, perhaps the most awe-inspiring of all, are the cities perched atop the dense jungle canopy, their elevated vantage points offering sweeping panoramas of the verdant expanse below. In every corner of Xuxia, the architecture conforms with the surroundings, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the planet's rich diversity and beauty.

Green Above and Below

The atmosphere of Xuxia is distinguished by a captivating greenish-blue tint, primarily dominated by shades of green due to the high content of water and ice particles within the planet’s skies. In certain climates, the cloud density further enhances the verdant hue, contributing to a surreal and enchanting ambiance. However, the towering trees and dense foliage that characterize Xuxia pose a challenge for ground-level observers, necessitating elevation to fully appreciate the unobstructed beauty of the sky above.Xuxia boasts an extraordinary array of flesh plants and plant animals, offering a diverse range of edible eggs and meat sources. The planet's emphasis on plant-based diets is underscored by stringent regulations imposed on Alph'ea to curb animal consumption and safeguard fragile ecosystems.On Xuxia, where certain plants exhibit carnivorous and animalistic traits, there exists speculation from outsiders surrounding the burial practices of the deceased. It is believed by some that by interring the deceased they may regenerate as carnivorous plants, serving as guardians and protectors of the planet. This belief stems from the profound reverence for Xuxia as a living entity, with the act of returning the deceased to the soil symbolizing a sacred bond with the planet. By nourishing the plants with the remains of the departed, it is thought that Xuxia may be less inclined to ensnare unsuspecting visitors in its carnivorous clutches.Central to Xuxia's ecosystem is the fauna, revered as "babies" by the planet's inhabitants. A harmonious symbiotic relationship exists between the creatures and their environment, with hunting practices conducted with utmost respect and reverence for the delicate balance of life on Xuxia.

Rain

For Xuxians, rain collectors serve as indispensable tools for procuring water, having sophisticated filtration systems in place to ensure its purity and safety for consumption.One of the defining characteristics of Xuxia is its water, which bears a striking red hue and is laden with an abundance of iron, rendering it highly toxic. While native Xuxians have developed some tolerance to its effects, ingesting this water can still lead to severe gastrointestinal issues.Water sources on Xuxia are scarce and precious commodities, primarily reserved for filtration and drinking purposes due to their limited availability. The few underground rivers that exist pose significant hazards to miners, filled with unexpected dangers and constantly changing. Moreover, the planet's ground often resembles flesh due to its rich nutrient and sediment content, which contributes to its eerie appearance and creates unique environmental conditions.

Hosts and Parasites

In their profound reverence for their planetary home, Xuxians have forged a remarkable symbiosis with the consciousness of Xuxia herself. Through sacred communion with the planet's essence, Xuxians may be graced with the presence of parasitic plants that naturally integrate into their bodies. This union transcends mere biological connection, representing a deep spiritual harmony between the Xuxians and their living world.The parasitic plants bestowed upon Xuxians are not mere organisms; they are living embodiments of Xuxia's essence. Coexisting with their hosts in a non-fatal symbiotic relationship, these plants draw sustenance from the Xuxians' bodies without inflicting harm. In return, they bestow various benefits upon their hosts, ranging from heightened resilience to protection against environmental hazards.Central to this symbiotic bond is the principle of consent and mutual agreement between the Xuxians and the parasitic plants. Both parties willingly enter this relationship recognizing the responsibilities and advantages it offers. When this mutual understanding is achieved, the parasitic plants thrive alongside their hosts, contributing to the well-being of both Xuxians and their planetary home.However, should discord arise or consent be withheld, the parasitic plants can transform into a destructive force. In such instances, they may consume and ultimately destroy their host, resulting in dire consequences for both the individual and the planet. Therefore, the significance of mutual respect and harmony in this symbiotic relationship cannot be overstated, as it ensures the continued equilibrium and prosperity of Xuxians and Xuxia alike.

Respect and The Mother Planet

Xuxians hold a profound reverence for their planet, viewing it not merely as a celestial body but as a living entity with its own preferences and desires. Cities are established in locations deemed "safe" and acceptable by Xuxia herself, as she selects where her inhabitants may dwell. This symbiotic relationship underscores the deep respect Xuxians hold for the natural world that nurtures and sustains them.From Xuxia's perspective, her relationship with Alpheans mirrors that of a nurturing mother overseeing her children. To her, Alpheans are mere inhabitants, akin to ants crawling upon her skin. At times, Xuxia may intervene, either offering protection or expressing her displeasure through natural phenomena. Alpheans understand the importance of honoring their planetary mother, recognizing that neglecting nature's balance may incur her wrath.Xuxia's presence serves as a constant reminder to Alpheans of the imperative to live in harmony with nature. They acknowledge that their actions directly impact their planetary home and strive to maintain a balanced relationship with Xuxia. By respecting her boundaries and honoring her role as a provider of life, they seek to foster a mutually beneficial coexistence with the planet that sustains them, thereby avoiding invoking her wrath.

Water Life

Surface water on Xuxia is a scarce and precious resource, and its inhabitants even more so. Oceanwalkers on Xuxia are unique, having fully evolved to deal with Xuxia’s iron rich water and developed natural defenses that help them camouflage within their dangerous surroundings. However, since oceanwalkers are confined to the winding waterways that are rare on Xuxia’s surface, they are easy snacks for predators and almost never make it to adulthood without outside intervention.All oceanwalkers that have survived on Xuxia are isolated from Xuxia’s society, as water is only in the most remote places Xuxia has not allowed settlers to take root in and find it difficult to interact with and integrate into the main society on Xuxia. They are instead identified and taken care of by the Ranger forces that brave the most dangerous of Xuxia’s forests and can protect them from even the fiercest foes. In return, oceanwalkers develop close relationships with the rangers and have their own symbiotic relationship.

04: ATLUSSEN II

SPECIALTIES: ORE PRODUCTION, ENERGY, HOUSING
WALKERS: LAND, HYBRID, CAVERNS

Summary

The mining planet, Atlussen II, harbors a bustling civilization thriving in the dark beneath its boiling surface. Above ground, the scorching heat renders the environment uninhabitable for planetary residents, as evidenced by the imposing domes that dot the landscape, shielding the surface inhabitants from the intense, colorful fires fueled by the unstable minerals just beneath the planet's crust.Within the intricate cave systems, cities emerge, carved meticulously from rock formations and adorned with luminescent fungi unique to Atlussen II. The societal structure here is unmistakably hierarchical, with one's access to light serving as a clear indicator of wealth and status. The brighter the illumination one maintains, the higher their social standing, while those dwelling in darkness are relegated to the lower echelons of society. It's often cautioned that tourists avoid venturing into the depths of the caverns, as the unknown dangers lurking within are best left undisturbed.Atlussen II's economy thrives on the exportation of its abundant resources, comprising of a plethora of unique crystals, sediments, and rocks best used for construction materials throughout the Prime system. Notably, this planet is ill-suited for ocean walkers, as water is as scarce as illumination on Atlussen II, further emphasizing the planet's stark and unforgiving environment.

Nomadic Divisions

Atlussen II has stark divisions based on circle depths. Each “circle” typically hosts a major city, with nomadic infrastructure prevailing throughout the planet. Decision-making authority often emanates from a central city, reflecting the planet's sparse population and decentralized governance. Governmental decisions usually only reflect the central city ideology, sometimes actively harming more nomadic residents.

Natural Nomads

The societal structure of Atlussen II is intricately woven with elements of nomadic lifestyle and rich African cultural influences. This mining planet, renowned for its extraction of crystals and precious stones, boasts a unique feature: the regrowth of crystals akin to plants. Rotational farming lies at the heart of Atlussen II's culture, where communities continuously migrate to optimize resource extraction, giving rise to a dynamic and ever-evolving society.Geographically, Atlussen II presents a striking landscape characterized by its hollow Earth structure and blistering surface temperatures. To withstand the harsh conditions, domes scattered across the planet are indispensable, providing refuge from the intense heat for the upper echelons. Unlike conventional caves, vast city-scale holes punctuate the terrain, offering diverse environmental layers dictated by light levels. Vegetation is scarce, placing immense value on agriculture for its economic and social significance.The social hierarchy on Atlussen II is pronounced, with the elite classes exerting control over power and resources through genuine agricultural pursuits. Mid-tier occupations such as terraforming play crucial roles in upholding societal functions, even if they’re not highly desired. A distinct aspect of Atlussen II's architecture is the mobility of houses, capable of adhering to any surface at any angle, reminiscent of hanging structures in the abyss. The presence of leviathans in water-filled cavities contributes to waste management and ecosystem preservation.The divide between the affluent upper echelons and the disadvantaged lower strata is glaring, with proximity to light sources serving as a marker of wealth and security. Those residing in well-lit areas enjoy superior living standards, contrasting starkly with the darker, less privileged sections of society. In some instances, individuals born in the lower circles, known as Cavernwalkers, may lack vision, adapted to thrive in perpetual darkness. Despite their challenges, they perceive themselves as resilient beings, becoming derisive of the dependence on light prevalence in other planetary societies.Housing on Atlussen II is characterized by compact, mobile structures designed for constant movement. These dwellings traverse caverns, allowing nature to regenerate in their wake. Vertical living is commonplace, with minimalist interiors to ensure mobility and minimize weight. Permanence in housing is a luxury afforded mainly to residents near the upper sections of the planet, where holes provide stability and security.

Leviathans

Each cavernous hollow within Atlussen II serves as a sanctuary for colossal extraterrestrial beings, nurturing life within the planet's depths. From these caverns, inhabitants extract "water," which, once properly filtered, becomes potable. Despite the absence of a traditional atmosphere, life persists within the pockets created by these caverns, showcasing a remarkable symbiosis between the planet's denizens and its enigmatic leviathans. Intriguing theories posit that the very crystals coveted across the Prime system may originate from these majestic creatures.Venturing beyond the confines of these caverns without adequate equipment can prove perilous, given the planet's harsh environmental conditions. Leviathans assume a pivotal role in Atlussen II's ecosystem, facilitating waste disposal and preserving balance within their subterranean domain. Notably, the planet's extreme heat and scarcity of actual water render it inhospitable to ocean walkers, further underscoring the unique challenges presented by Atlussen II's unforgiving terrain.

Cave Living

Above the surface, Atlussen II is an inhabitable wasteland, dotted with dome covered craters that help peer into the life teaming beneath the surface. The surface is covered with thick smoke originating from the metals constantly burning on the planet’s surface, continuing to pack in heat in the already blistering environment. Due to the temperature and fire, no life survives on the surface, all forests and waterways having dried up long ago.The weather systems below the surface of Atlussen II are intimately intertwined with the well-being of its cave-dwelling inhabitants, with fluctuations in humidity and temperature serving as indicators of their health and vitality. While the natives are well-acquainted with these variations, they remain unfamiliar with phenomena such as thunderstorms, which are rare occurrences on their planet.The architecture of Atlussen II's homes prioritizes compartmentalization and organization, reminiscent of Kondo-style living, where every item has its designated space. Miniature houses embody this ethos, maximizing space efficiency to accommodate diverse lifestyles.Atlussans have seamlessly integrated into their planet's unique ecosystem, where survival hinges on the perpetual movement and regeneration of resources. Their housing and lifestyle choices reflect this symbiotic relationship, emphasizing sustainability and mobility. Despite the environmental challenges they face, Atlussans thrive through their inherent resilience and resourcefulness.Dwellings on Atlussen II are compact and mobile, tailored for travel between caverns to allow nature to regenerate in their wake. This nomadic lifestyle is a direct consequence of their reliance on resources sourced from leviathans, necessitating cooldown periods for regeneration. Vertical living is prevalent, with minimalist interiors designed to minimize weight and facilitate ease of movement. Permanent residences are a luxury reserved for those fortunate enough to dwell near the upper sections of the planet, where stability and security are more readily accessible.

Cavern Dwellers

Even though there is an absence of water, Atlussen II still hosts a variety of unique Alpheans. Due to their cavernous lifestyle, many Alpheans have evolved to live without light in the winding tunnels that make up their home. Alpheans here often sport dark colors in both their clothing and pigmentation to blend into their environment and not attract predators.Due to the lack of light that filters down into the depths Alpheans from here often have poor quality vision or no eyes altogether, instead relying on other senses to navigate safely. They have also evolved to survive effectively in their perilous environment, being far more flexible and being able to eat less to survive than other Alpheans to navigate the most cramped and desolate cave systems.Others have evolved separately, instead developing bioluminescence to light up their surroundings and preserve their eyesight. This variety often doesn’t live as deep as other cavern dwellers, and need their vision to do work in central cities that have access to the light.These Alpheans live the most dangerous lives, and you often see older Alpheans with prosthetics or augmentations from old injuries if they can afford them.

05: ENEOS

SPECIALTIES: ENERGY, IRONWORKS, JEWELRY
WALKERS: LAND, OCEAN, HYBRIDS

Summary

The energy exporter planet, Eneos has a unique monopoly on the crystals that can be refined into fuel for the rest of the system. However, Eneos is not for the faint of heart, sporting subfreezing temperatures, constant blizzards, and shifting polar ice caps. Occasionally when the storms clear Eneos inhabitants can view stunning sights through the clouds before they quickly close again.A desolate land of harsh weather and even harsher Alpheans, Eneos is the system’s only large-scale prison for serious criminals. If you’re not there in a uniform, the sheared off crown or cut ears identify you as a prisoner within the system. The prisoners on Eneos’ surface endlessly mine and refine the raw crystal deposits that snake deep beneath the surface. Under the watchful eyes of their ruthless overseers, prisoners toil day and night to make sure the rest of the system gets the power they need.This planet’s only waterways are locked deep beneath the ice sheets unless holes are created by leaping megafauna, making this planet inhospitable for non-native oceanwalkers lest they want to freeze beneath the waves.

Anarchic Dystopia

Eneos embodies a state of anarchy and chaos, resembling a Mad Max-style dystopia. Governed by lawlessness and survival instincts, Eneos is marked by its lack of centralized authority and rampant individualism. Despite the presence of a government prison, Eneos operates under an anarchic ethos, with individuals vying for survival in a harsh environment.Outside of the prison walls is a different story. Rebels that have escaped from the prison compound and created their own nomadic, community focused societies. If one wants to make a life out in the harsh wastelands, they must do it together, in harmony with not only the other Alpheans, but the nature that surrounds them. They share everything between their communities, and no one has more than any other.

The Icy Tundra

The environment on Eneos is cold and unforgiving, with ice flats as far as the eye can see, only broken up by the occasional rugged mountain peak or hole to peak into the water beneath the ice. However, usually the visibility is brought down to almost zero from Eneos’ constant heavy blizzards, fog, or high-speed winds. If one is outside on Eneos for too long, even the most fortified manufactured protections will be worn down and the chill will settle into an Alphean’s bones.The skies of Eneos aren’t always stormy, and if Alpheans look above the clouds they can see some beautiful sights. Due to its proximity to the asteroid belt, Eneos constantly has shooting stars flying through the skies, creating mesmerizing meteor showers for anyone who is around to witness it. These meteors also occasionally impact Eneos’ surface, leaving behind impact craters filled with other rare minerals that are highly sought after.While seemingly desolate, Eneos aren’t just empty snow flats, resilient animals also call Eneos their home. Reminiscent of both the Arctic and Antarctic in our world, Eneos harbors all walks of animals that you’d see in a polar environment, from herds of caribou to hares that burrow beneath the snow and birds that fly high above it.There is as much life above the waves as there is below it. The food web is an important part of balancing Eneos’ ecosystem, held together by the stunning megafauna that are both a dazzling sight and a potential danger to any Alphean trekking Eneos’ surface. As such, nomadic tribes that roam Eneos’ ice flats often check the thickness of the ice they settle on, ensuring it is not thin enough to break underfoot and send them all spiraling into the depths below.Homes for groups outside of the complex are insulated and easily transportable, allowing for them to follow herds and migration patterns throughout the seasons so they can easily hunt for food and materials to make clothing and housing for stable living. These nomads often do not have many material possessions, as they originally came to the planet with nothing, and unneeded weight drags the travelers down. However, they often practice unique carvings with the bones and antlers left behind, creating artistic touchstones or important equipment, starting their own culture out in the wastes.

Megafauna

Eneos’ megafauna is essential to the delicate ecosystem that has thrived despite the cutthroat and dangerous conditions. Eneos' most vital marine mammals are the Eneos Whales, massive whales that survive on a unique diet of Eneos’ energy crystals. When digested, the whales convert excess energy from the crystals into bioluminescence, their stomachs glowing to match their crystalline diet. This bioluminescence color marks pods members, as each pod has a different migratory pattern and diet and allows the whales to communicate with a complex mix of echolocation and bioluminescence. That’s not the only use however, as bioluminescence also warns predators away from this gentle sea beast, providing a safe haven for small fish underneath their bright shadow.Sea mammals like the whales are not the biggest animals on the planet however, as that honor goes to the majestic ice wyrms that roam Eneos’ skies. These wyrms create localized disturbances around them, creating air currents and driving storms around the planet following each of their unique migratory patterns. These patterns simulate atmospheric current and allow for the formation of new clouds and precipitation events. The storms and cold fronts brought by the wyrms also thicken the ice along their journey, offering a safer migratory pattern and leading a lot of species through the seasons.Opposite the ice wyrms they’re also the fire wyrms that are thought to have been eradicated. However, some schools of thoughts are that the fire wyrms instead migrated to the heat vents in the deep ocean, hibernating around the one source of warmth left on the planet and their constant breaths drive the ocean currents and guide the migratory pattern of the marine mammals in ways that mirror the atmospheric circulation.It has been discovered over the recent years that the origin of the energy crystals vital to the operations around the system are caused by a “goop” that ice wyrms excrete and let fall to the Earth. These goop pieces are continuously buried under layers of ice and snow until the immense pressure above them condenses them into the energy crystals that are being harvested.

Life Behind Bars

For the prisoners that are shipped to Eneos from other planets in the system, their life is up for a drastic change. Instead of living a life of ease and comfort that some may be used to, Eneos prisoners are on a tight and regimented schedule day in and day out to make sure not a moment is wasted. After a morning wake up, prisoners are fitted into specialized clothing and equipment to ensure a healthy body temperature for Eneos’ climate before being directed to the chosen vein for harvest. There, prisoners are looked after by overseers as they mine energy crystals and other rare minerals from the earth to be refined.Meanwhile, in other areas of the facilities, prisoners that are less physically fit or unable to survive safely in the Eneos conditions focus on refining the mined energy crystals with the available machinery to be used for power throughout the Prime System. All prisoners are housed in humane conditions and given food, medical care, and looked after by overseers to ensure a relatively safe environment for eventual reintegration. Although there is individualism and a Mad Max style governmental system ruling the Eneos system, this is not an excuse to try and live out unsavory or inappropriate prison related fantasies.Outside of the facility, it is a very different story. The groups of locals and escaped prisoners live together in harmonious communities, where everyone helps each other survive through sharing of rations and other comforts that these migratory groups can afford. These groups often wear furs and other warming layers to ensure protection from Eneos’ constant blizzards and winds that make their way across the ice flats. These groups use a mixture of tracking and technology acquired from the facility to track and record animal migration routes to decide their own migratory patterns and ensure food for their communities.Most of these groups live pretty independent of each other, but if they do follow the same herd, they will join together to form a larger group until their paths diverge. Most of these groups follow the same guiding principles so they blend together seamlessly.

Under the Icy Waves

While oceanwalkers from other planets need special allowances to survive within Eneos’ prison system, Oceanwalker Alpheans, now native to the planet, have learned to adapt.Oceanwalkers on this planet have evolved to thrive within the subfreezing temperatures of Eneos’ oceans, having gained blubber to insulate themselves and being able to eat less than other oceanwalkers to sustain themselves. This has led to them having slow growth rates, reaching their max height later in life than other Alpheans, as well as being a short subspecies in general, with most of their energy from food going towards thermoregulation.

The Native Species

Alpheans, despite adapting well to the cold environment, weren’t the initial civilization that once roamed this planet. Eneos was once inhabited by a nomadic tribe of alienoids that exhibited sheep-like qualities (See Tekh’Nun At Zyn’o Ai on Toyhouse for a visual image), including long woolly hair. The hair of this species was kept long and was often depicted as shiny, supposedly representing their life essence. Their glows in depictions have been attributed to their native connection to Eneos and its role as the energy planet, with some historians hypothesizing they could also create the energy crystals the planet is known for based on murals restored from the planet.No structures that this past species once inhabited remain standing on the surface, but ruins litter the landscape, following the same migratory pattern that the nomadic Alpheans now follow in their stead. The only things found at these sites of any value are remains of art, cultural pieces of murals and pottery for archeologists to examine. This has led historians to the discovery that they worshiped the wyrm beings on Eneos as Gods, migrating after them and performing rituals to gain their favor, and that they were generally a very ritualistic culture. However, there are no definite remnants of this species at this time that confirm historians' understanding.Note: The GUCA University acknowledge that none of this information is confirmed from found scripture, as there is none, and is based on academia’s best understanding of their culture through art.

06: ATLUSSEN I

SPECIALTIES: LAW & ORDER, FURNITURE, FASHION
WALKERS: LAND, OCEAN, HYBRIDS

Summary

The planet of balance, Atlussen I is known for their extreme commitment to law and order as well as their artisan crafts of many different fields. Atlussen I is a place for Alpheans to slow down and enjoy the beauty around them, as the mountainous grasslands and crystalline waters are filled with endless colors no matter where you place your eyes.With a lack of advanced technology due to environmental hazards, denizens of Atlussen I enjoy traveling from place to place either on foot or using the unique animals that roam the plains. They’re also more spiritual than other planets, believing the large crystal structures that litter the landscape to be a connection to a higher power present on Atlussen I. These crystals are the center of society on Atlussen I, being part of their art, their culture, and their survival.This is showcased by their two ceremonies, “The Forging” and “The Enlightenment”, which both revolve around isolation and connection between the Alphean and the crystals, though which crystals these are are dependent on the ceremony being performed. “The Enlightenment” specifically is the ritual gone through by Alpheans to become part of the judicial branch that governs Atlussen I and forms a faceless and unbiased body to help mediate any problems that arise.

Democratic Presidency

Atlussen I follows a democratic system with a presidential form of government. Political power is derived from the will of the people, with elections determining the leadership of the planet. This democratic ethos guides decision-making processes and ensures accountability to the populace.In order to become a judge or a being of higher executive power on Atlussen I, an Alphean must cut all ties with their family and community and train their mind and logic at the Crystal Temple, where they are most bonded with their spiritual ancestors through “The Enlightenment”. Once you become a full judge, you remain completely covered and faceless, a vessel for justice instead of an individual. Being chosen to sacrifice your life and personality to join the judicial system is considered the highest honor on Atlussen I.

Colorful Hills

Atlussen I is a calm planet compared to the other planets in the system, with a lack of recent seismic activity or extreme weather, the inhabitants of Atlussen I enjoy a colorful life of beauty and wonder. Atlussen I is famous for their towering crystals that display a myriad of colors, from shimmering iridescents to imposing obsidian spires, that they build their entire lives around. These massive crystals were thought to have been formed through the planet's Ice Age, the monumental glaciers carving and eroding away cliffs and mountains until only winding rocky spires and crystals were left in their wake. In modern times, residents of Atlussen I live amongst these structures and have integrated them into their way of life.Crystals aren’t the only colorful marvels that are present on the surface of Atlussen I, as the glaciers also shifted the mineral composition of the earth itself. As the Ice Age receded and left behind a watery planet, minerals held in the water were transported and deposited over one another, creating stratas of different coloured minerals according to their material weight. This has caused hills and mountains in the region to adopt a striking rainbow appearance, having thick bands of different oxides to create each color. Plants living on this surface develop different carotenes to blend in with the stratas and also give off their own hues, leading to the mountains looking like an ethereal plain of shifting colors in the sunlight.The collage of colors does not stop on land, as rainbow spectacles occur both in the air and beneath the picturesque waves. The crystalline waters are home to untouched fields of seagrass butting up against bright coral reefs that span as far as the eye can see. Unlike other planets, Atlussen I does not have deep trenches in their oceans due to a lack of extreme seismic activity, which means that while flying over the ocean you can almost always see all the bottom due to its crystallinity. Oceans, rivers, and lakes aren’t the only water sources present on Atlussen I’s surface, as Atlussen I also has many mineral rich thermal hot springs that have sprouted up all over the planet's surface. Some of these hot springs are unique beauties, with extremely acidic water that allows for the growth of resilient thermophiles, creating a rainbow gradient within the prismatic springs. However, not all springs have this quality, leading to a lot of natural rest stops along the winding trails that Alpheans can ease into and relax to take the load off after a long journey.Hot springs like these are especially needed as Atlussen I heads into its winter months. Although no planet sees storms like Eneos, Atlussen I still hosts a chilly winter season prone to freezing temperatures and ice storms that leave Alpheans running for the warmth of nearby housing as snow covers the region. This does not mean the winter is without its beauty however, as the cold weather heralds the arrival of polar stratospheric clouds throughout the planet. These rainbow colored clouds are a constant presence on the colder poles in the warmer months but spread throughout the planet in colder weather. While on other planets these clouds mean potential damage to the atmosphere, without the industrialization, Atlussen I’s atmosphere houses less free radicals to interact with, allowing the clouds to just be pretty spectacle throughout the seasons.

Symbiotic Life

Although Atlussen I has less extreme dangers than other planets, flora and fauna still have unique situations to adapt to in order to survive and thrive. Camouflaging in this colorful environment has proven difficult for large animals as they couldn’t adapt patterns on their bodies quickly or effectively, so they instead built symbiotic relationships with the plant life around them in order to blend in. In return for the colorful disguises lent to the mammals by the plants, the animal’s migration pattern keeps the plants safe from the cold snaps and helps provide plants with key nutrients and pollination opportunities that they may otherwise miss by being a stationary species.These animals are a keystone species in the life of Atlussen I residents as they provide both a consistent stream of healthy food and important medicinal plants, as well as providing proteins as these animals near the end of their lifecycle and can no longer maintain the plants attached to them. Most Atlussen I communities host a large range of these plant bonding animals in farming communities and as steeds to travel between locations.However, not all animals need camouflage or can sustain the nutrients required for hosting a plant species, which is why reptiles have found alternate methods of survival in their environment. Unlike the organic disguises mammals use, reptiles hibernate underground in the winter months in mineral rich aquifers littered beneath the earth and grow a unique crystal exoskeleton that allows them to blend into the rock face when they emerge in the warmer months. While these crystals are useful, they’re often lightweight for mobility and extremely fragile, which means that reptiles often lose the entire growth before the next hibernation season so they can start the cycle again. Some older reptiles that have less need for movement keep the exoskeleton throughout the warmer seasons and will continue to build up more and more crystal throughout the seasons until they’re massive behemoths of seemingly living crystal.

Living in the Past

Atlussen I has a very imposing and mysterious presence to any visitor who steps on it. Inhabitants are nestled among the mountains in either vertical housing carved delicately into the cliff face, or triangular houses that are close to the ground, camouflaged by living grass roofs and not visible from the trails that have been trod across Atlussen I’s plains. Massive statues are carved into the crystals and cliff faces, some abandoned and weathered while others are still in the process of being created. These statues not only write out the history and triumphs of the local groups, but they also carry directions in a language only locals know, a mysterious glyph language of swirling shapes and strange patterns.Compared to the societies that have grown on the other planets, you may call the society on Atlussen I “backwards” or “dated”, but they would say much the same about the tourists to their planet from the rest of the system. Unlike other planets, Atlussen I has grown up without the presence of heavy machinery and highly advanced technology, much to their advantage. The fact that heavy machinery can’t operate on the planet without shattering their sacred crystals has stopped the building of unnatural skyscrapers and excessive teleporters between their communes, allowing the inhabitants of Atlussen I to feel more in tune and take in the nature around them and the stunning scenery and opportunities their natural planet provides as they travel from place to place on foot or animal back.While this may seem less advanced than other planets, they view the oppressive cradle of technology other planets have fallen into as short sighted and archaic, having realized that online systems are easy to manipulate and quick to become “lost” or “misplaced” in the wrong hands. Instead, Atlussen I Alpheans solve all of their disputes face to face with a mediator in a private setting. The Alpheans there view this practice as an unbiased and effective way to solve anything that may come up. Group decisions happen in the same vein, with representatives coming forward to have meetings to come up with the best possible decision with their group in mind.This attitude extends to their way of everyday life, with Atlussen I Alpheans preferring to make or touch everything by hand. This is why Atlussen I artisans are known for making the best quality crafts in the entire system, because each piece is delicately handled and crafted with handmade tools and endless time. Atlussen I pieces may take much longer to receive, but the quality is worth the price! Speaking of price, Atlussen I also deals with money differently than other planets. Unlike other planets, Atlussen I has rejected the presence of online currency and banking systems in their society, instead keeping carved currencies made up of the different minerals present on the planet, with different colors representing different amounts of money.Atlussen I views the creation and handling of their future with their own hands as one of their most sacred rites, which is why Atlussen I practices a maturity ceremony called “The Forging”. In this ceremony, young Alpheans venture outside of their communities to gather a crystal from a nearby quarry with nothing more than their wits. When they return they are put under the watchful eye of the local Forger, where they work in silence until they whittle their crystals into unique knives that will be their most faithful companion for the rest of their lives. The crystals used in this ceremony change depending on the region the Alpheans live in, making knives a good identifier for where an Atlussen I Alphean grew up. More spiritual members of the community say that while out on their Forging the quarry crystals showed them visions of the future and potential dangers, warnings from the planet themselves.

Taking their Time

While the inhabitants of Atlussen I have none of the extreme physical differences that other planets may sport due to the lack of an extreme environment, Atlussen I has consistently reported a longer life span in comparison to other planets, with Alpheans who grow up on Atlussen I reported to live 100 years longer than other Alpheans on average. If you ask spiritual community members they will say that their connection to the crystals, their environment, and lack of societal stress allows for a longer lifespan. However, some scientists hypothesize that it instead comes from a hidden mutation passed down through their species group, but which genetic markers cause this are not yet certain and are unable to be replicated.

07: NESSAN

SPECIALTIES: RESEARCH, INTERPLANETARY TRAVEL, NEW TECHNOLOGY
WALKERS: LAND, HYBRID, CAVERNS

Summary

The planet of technology and adaptation, Nessan pushed towards innovation by its harsh desert landscape and out of reach oases both above and below the surface. Nessan’s dangerous exterior often warns away even the most seasoned tourists, making any outside travelers either extremely ambitious… or extremely unlucky.Ran smoothly under the watchful eye of The Research Tribunal, all Nessan natives know their way around even the most complex scientific theory, with math being the key to transportation, bartering, and even simple survival. Alpheans that chose not to partake in the system are often left to wander through the desert at their own devices, but be wary of the many predators that lurk in the golden sands!This planet views nature as something to take inspiration from, with many of their structures being composed entirely of natural materials in order to keep nature free and untouched. Any mechanical structures you can find on Nessan are energy efficient and powered through clean energy, making their systems entirely self-sufficient from the rest of the system.

Aristocratic Meritocracy

Nessan operates as an aristocratic meritocracy, where power is granted based on an individuals' achievements and contributions. The planet's focus on technological innovation elevates those who make breakthroughs, granting them political influence and prestige within the society.When an Alphean gains a large amount of prestige and influence, they can be appointed to the august body that governs Nessan, The Research Tribunal. This tribunal is filled with Nessan natives that have contributed the most to the society in terms of life changing inventions, governing important trading hubs, or having large influence on other planets. This tribunal has no set number of members, and members can be added or removed based on a majority vote.

Desert Life

Nessan, a world of stark contrasts and relentless natural forces, is defined by its vast deserts and unyielding sandstorms. Inhabitants, resembling ball-jointed insects, have evolved to withstand these harsh conditions by adorning themselves with extensive coverings. Face veils are particularly crucial for protection against the biting winds and swirling sands, with attire crafted from traditional village materials such as wicker and macrame.Nessan natives gather materials from the rare flora that dot the landscape, remnants of oases and hardy trees that reach down into the sand for nutrients. Baobab trees and juniper trees are essential for both Alphean and fauna survival, with Baobab trees providing essential nutrients with their shedded leaves, and their bark providing fire kindling and natural remedies for different ailments. Not all flora are trees though, as cacti provide refuge and living water sources for travelers and dense blossoms that can offer food for agriculture.Given the predominantly sandy terrain, Nessan's society has adopted a vertical structure. They have ingeniously inhabited "floating islands," natural structures suspended like oases in the sky, to cultivate crops and ensure sustenance. Beneath these aerial havens, civilization thrives amidst the undulating sand dunes, where houses, hospitals, and vital infrastructure provide refuge from the elements. However, the transportation of food from the floating islands presents a formidable challenge, underscoring the resourcefulness and adaptability of the inhabitants.Some rare inhabitants take it even further, digging out extensive labyrinths under the sand to reach deep seated aquifers. These inhabitants have slowly evolved through their search, mutating to be better suited for dark living and the presence of abundant water. Due to their higher need for water, these groups guard their chosen aquifer, only giving it to people who fall into their communities or to trade for goods they can not get below the earth. These Alpheans also rarely leave these communities, only leaving to go on hunting parties to gather food or to trade with nearby groups.On Nessan, sand—a once-living substance—is now a prized resource. Through innovative techniques harnessing the power of sand and wind, the populace generates energy for various applications, including wind farms and technological advancements. Wells, vital for accessing water in this arid landscape, delve deep into aquifers beneath the surface, where living creatures are scarce and water is a precious commodity.

The World Above

Unlike most planets, not all of what occurs on Nessan happens on the ground level, as Nessan’s lighter gravitational pull allows for a unique spectacle of floating isles. However, there’s more to the rocky structures than first appears, since these structures are almost entirely made of organic matter. These floating oases are covered in a fungi network with twining mycelium that tether them to the earth and also provide them with essential nutrients that allow them to continue metabolizing energy and float without overheating. This mycelium network is essential for long term living on the floating islands, as they drag up an excess of water from Nessan’s deep aquifers and sweat the unmetabolized droplets out of their “skin”, creating lakes and water pockets on their surface. These pockets are preserved as the islands bob up and down in accordance to the time of day and Nessan’s rotation in order to ensure the fungi don’t get overheated by the sun’s rays.Living on these islands poses a unique challenge, as making them too heavy can pull them out of equilibrium with their unstable position in the environment. In order to counteract this issue, Nessan inhabitants build with organic materials harvested and manufactured from the island’s surface as much as possible. By cutting away the dead and excess materials to use for construction, they also allow the organic island to flourish and continue to maximize new growth and production. This challenge does come with its benefits to those who can survive, as the water and nutrients present on the island’s surface allows for the ability to farm on this thought to be barren planet without immediate fear of drought. This does not stop the island dwellers from preparing for that eventuality, as they farm exclusively with drought tolerant crops that keep in water and can survive for a period of time if the island starts to die so they have food for the new migration process to another island or surface civilization.Alpheans aren’t the only ones who have learned to survive in the sky, as native plants have found their own ways to adapt to their environment. Plants that need water have latched on the island surface and survive on one island for most of their lifecycle. However, once they’ve matured and accumulated enough water, these plants will migrate to another island by pulling into hydrogen gas to free float in the oxygen rich atmosphere. This allows them to wind disperse their seeds along their path as they travel to their new location so that they can germinate as many islands as possible for continued species survival. Spreading seeds isn’t the only benefit, as miniscule travelers also hop on to these plants and travel with them, also spreading from one planet to another in this process while helping the plant survive the long travel time. Without these plants, smaller life on Nessan would have died out a long time ago.

Adaptable Wildlife

Plants and microorganisms aren’t the only species that travel between islands, and these species do it with a little more agency than the aimless flora. Some smaller animals have adapted to gliding on the wind currents, shooting across the sky between islands as they feel the wind under their membranes. Others have adapted to the process of ballooning, throwing out threads to catch onto the wind and throw them through the wind currents much the same way the plants do.Larger mammals and invertebrates with more muscle mass have the power to create their own thrust, moving their wings at high speeds to fly effectively through the air, and dive down at devastating speeds to capture their prey. The poster fauna for high speed flight through the skies are Laeti Raptors, large reptile-like birds that propell themselves from island to island, hanging on with their sharp claws in the shadows of the isles to leap on unsuspecting prey and tear it apart. These raptors are often bright and unnatural colours to blend into the fungi that covers the islands in their region, ranging from dusky purples to mustard yellows. These raptors’ unique wing shapes and unique bone structure inspired many of the flying instruments currently in use on Nessan.Although many species have evolved to live amongst the sky, more animals still live life in the scorching sand below. Here, xerocoles have adapted out of imported animals and old sole dominion over the dunes. These animals do anything possible to conserve fluids and also keep themselves cool in the eternal heat, avoiding sweating and release of fluid through excretion. These animals often are most active at night, leading hunters on the planet to adapt technology and techniques to hunt effectively in the heart of darkness.While these animals are dominant on Nessan’s surface, they are not the only beings that live in the golden waves. Underneath the shifting sands lives Nessan’s own leviathan, the awe-inspiring sand wyrm. Unlike the creatures on other planets in the system, sand wyrms are massive hulking beasts that are almost unfathomable in size. When dormant, their scales jut through the dunes like a mountain range, and can be a suitable resting spot for tired critters and Alpheans alike, though be careful, if the sand wyrm starts moving it can take weary travelers with it, depositing them leagues away from their initial destination. When in motion, the sand wyrms can be deadly, moving at high speeds as they swim through the shifting sands and cause entire dunes to collapse in the hunt for their prey.Sand wyrms aren’t only a biological marvel, but they also are a keystone species in keeping Nessan running. The motion of sand wyrms and causing the landscape to shift can open up quicker passages between population centers and ease access to underwater aquifers, or even create new ones with their pilgrimage. These animals rarely surface above the sand, choosing to only keep their spines out to feel the rushing wind and electrical fields to navigate safely and at the high speeds without swallowing sand, only surfacing when they sense a tasty morsel big enough to satisfy their appetite. Sadly, this is usually a traversing Alphean, so it is recommended to travel quickly and quietly, or travel through means that don’t require land passage.

Technology and Flight

Flight reigns supreme as the primary mode of transportation on Nessan, mirroring the planet's sky-centric culture. Due to the thin air on Nessan, engineers have created low energy specialized aircrafts that move at extremely high speeds in order to create thrust great enough to transport both goods and other Alpheans. Hovering and flying are favored means of getting around due to these advantages, complemented by the occasional use of teleportation. The early settlers, hailing from a colony well-versed in surviving harsh environments, seamlessly adapted to Nessan's airborne lifestyle.With limited resources allocated to scientific exploration, Nessan's inhabitants channel their efforts into the realms of engineering and architecture. Their inventive spirit works seamlessly with the world around them through the construction of cities crafted from rock, serving as sturdy bastions against the relentless onslaught of sand and dust storms that frequently sweep across the landscape. These storms, though common, are met with innovative solutions devised by the planet's industrious denizens, underscoring their adaptability and problem-solving prowess.Nessan's character is indelibly shaped by its harsh and unforgiving environment, fostering a culture marked by resilience and resourcefulness. Not only have they created ways to farm water and wind to sustain their populations and power their systems, but they also have their own land transportation modeled after the gliding shown in Nessan’s native species, allowing Alpheans to catch the wind on a sailing board in order to travel at moderately high speeds.Specializing in the fields of engineering and architecture, its inhabitants thrive amidst the challenges posed by their desert realm, placing a premium on practical skills and creative ingenuity in the absence of traditional scientific pursuits.Not all technological advancement is positive however, as the less trodden lanes of Nessan are used for more sinister experimentation and testing. The most remote areas are used for nuclear testing, with other areas being used for other top secret experiments. These experiments were moved to remote locations after irresponsible testing started causing not only negative effects on Alphean society, but also fungi and islands to die off at an alarming rate due to long term radiation effects.

Aquifer Dwellers

While most Alpheans present on Nessan live either on the surface or on the oases, some groups have chosen to inhabit ancient water systems initially carved out when Nessan was first colonized. These systems allow for easy access to water through the aquifers and a reprieve from the beaming sunlight that scorches Nessan’s surface. Communities have been drilled into the rockface as these groups expanded the tunnels in search for more water and made them thriving underground cities, running on energy from dams and water wheels to light up their cavernous surroundings. These inhabitants are so protective of their water sources that they rarely leave their cavern homes, and rarely open their water source to the public, instead using it as a bartering source for materials they need.Living underground for generations has not come without its differences however, as these Nessan natives have grown accustomed to the lack of harsh light and the presence of water that others do not have access to. Due to this these cavern dwellers have developed water sacs underneath their skin as an additional organ around the stomach area, due to them not being able to travel the same long distances without water that other Nessan Alpheans are capable of. They also follow the way of a lot of cavern dwellers, with the lack of consistent and extensive light causing the more adventurous and brave families to have hard head shells and underdeveloped eyes, perfect for diving deep into the tunnels and to discover what mysteries lie beneath Nessan’s surface.

08: RIGARIOS

SPECIALTIES: OLD TECHNOLOGY, WEAPONS, CHEMICALS
WALKERS: DEEP SEA

Summary

The planet of things left behind, Rigarios is the planet of ancient technology and mysteries. The expertise on Rigarios is geared towards defense contracting and warfare, with unique weapons being churned out behind the scenes. No words ever grace the airwaves coming out of this system, and no one ever visits. It’s often thought that this planet is either uninhabited or a testing ground, though nothing like that is truly the case.Rigarios is a totalitarian ecumenopolis, a sprawling city that is constantly bustling on all levels. Members of the upper levels enjoy seemingly mundane jobs and lifestyles, working under the order of their leader in a constant cycle, while lower levels live in a less structured manner. And even deeper levels, never seeing the sun, live almost completely separate lifestyles and ideologies, as being unable to afford traveling to higher levels sees them coming together as a community and living on a bartering system.This massive metropolis has wiped out most of the wildlife that used to rule Rigario’s oceans and waves, as now only few species survive the lack of reefs, safe spaces, and forests that a normal ocean provides. Don’t venture down too deep, as there are some surprises hidden under the endless layers of the colony that are better not coming up to the light of day.

Totalitarian Rule

Rigarios is characterized by a totalitarian regime, where one person or group wields absolute control over the population. Information about Rigarios is scarce, with the planet maintaining radio silence and restricting both entry and exit. The reasons behind its authoritarian rule remain a mystery to Alpheans across the system.In this instance, the totalitarian regime is under the Leaping Bunny CEO Supernova. Due to circumstances unknown to the outside world, the upper levels follow an unknown plan seemingly under Supernova’s design without question, moving around their jobs and lives every day in a somewhat odd uniformity.However, in the lower levels of the society, Alpheans have banded together in a kind of exchange economy. These Alpheans live separately from the upper totalitarian regime and have created an exchange economy with naturally elected community leaders and idols that work between other lower levels.

Deep Metropolis

Rigarios has the unique distinction of being the Prime System’s only ecumenopolis, or city planet, which means that the entire surface of the planet is covered by one city without any viable land underneath. This means that instead of building out, new structures on Rigarios are built up, down, and sideways in a dizzying play on perspective and the freedom to move underwater, with new layers being added as a population grows in size to keep up with demand.If Rigarios was a gas powered planet, the presence of an ecumenopolis would cause the planet’s life cycle to collapse under the Alphean’s ecological footprint. Thankfully, the Rigarios native’s unique blend of tidal energy and chemical power keeps their city running pollution free. However, this does not mean the city is without its own faults. As with most ecumenopolis, Rigarios has fallen prey to the classism that the layers inadvertently provide, with the upper layers giving access to sunlight streaming through the water and the biodiversity that comes with it, while lower levels are sealed beneath endless layers of rock and concrete.Rigarios’ largest skyscraper is home to Supernova. Unlike other skyscrapers, this building is constantly moved and lifted up through layers to continue to have the honor of being the tallest skyscraper in the ecumenopolis. Other upper layers erect skyscrapers that also house parts of Supernova but the main skyscraper is currently on the top layer. These infected skyscrapers are never inhabited and are usually viewed as a sort of shrine by the layer that they are in, with goods and other things sometimes left around their foundation.Since Rigarios is home to a countless number of layers, as no living Alphean on Rigarios has deigned to travel downward to count them and some have simply been lost in the chasms below, the true population count of Rigarios is unknown. What is known is that the lower down you travel, the higher the pressure becomes, and the more strange both the Alpheans and the creatures that manage to inhabit these layers become as well, so most upper class Alpheans on Rigarios won’t travel further than a few layers down in order to do their daily tasks, leaving the lower classes to fend for themselves beneath their feet.This reality makes the lower levels seem like a lawless land. Without the strict hand and societal niceties that the upper levels adhere to, most areas on the lower level are built upon the things the higher levels throw down into the abyss, people and things alike. However, people down there have their own kind of ingenuity and society built up from the rubble. Unlike the upper levels, the lower levels rely on favors and bartering over real money, as most don’t have jobs sanctioned by the upper level government, so any money seen is usually from back alley work. Areas of the varying levels are in states of disrepair from fallen debris and lack of tools to fix it to perfection, leading to an almost homogenous look of cobbled houses and streets from inhabitants between different inhabited layers. The lower levels of Rigarios are home to the things that Alpheans want to forget, for better… or for worse.This does not mean life on the surface levels is more peaceful and without faults, as the presence of the ecumenopolis that Alphean’s have built up has killed out most of the native wildlife that used to live among them. As layers have been built, Rigarios slowly covered and built around any native reefs, seaweed forests, and underwater mountains as they reached their hands up towards the sky, smothering them beneath their hubris. Thus, the only creatures left to be viewed by the populace are creatures that rely on the higher water sunlight and molecules that the Alpheans can’t safely reach due to their biology.

Unknowable Creatures

Although Rigarios is an ecumenopolis, they have not succeeded in wiping every speck of life from the planet by virtue of it being a water planet, meaning that the surface level has so far been nearly untouched by their rapid expansion. There, microorganisms and drifters can safely eat and absorb nutrients, and can continue their own pared down version of the food cycle. Common species to see on the upper layers of Rigarios are jellyfish and krill, however rarely are people treated to the sight of massive basking sharks and whale sharks, with a few left that can sustain themselves on the plankton available. While some creatures still survive and thrive in the sunlight zone of Rigarios, surviving off of photosynthesis and the plankton and microdiversity that can occur without the presence of reefs and plant forests, there are some large beings that still haunt the city below.As the ecumenopolis was built, Rigarios citizens slowly built up and over chasms that littered the planets, sealing them away. However, as more and more layers were added and time went on, abyssal titans emerged from the deep, only to find themselves locked in. This has led to many lower levels being partially destroyed as large creatures have tried to force their way up to their usual feeding levels, endangering lower level populations as they do so. The lowest levels of Rigarios are now abandoned by Alpheans, as trash, debris, and destroyed buildings along with low levels of oxygen make habitation seemingly impossible, with only dangerously mutated fauna, like squids, eels, and fish calling this place home. Due to their need for survival most of these animals have developed large hinged jaws and thick muscle to wiggle and bite their way through buildings and trash to gain the necessary nutrients for survival. Alpheans do not go down into these levels if they want to come out alive.Not all megafauna on Rigarios are inherently dangerous though, as some of the kinder titans and normal fauna locked into mid tier levels exhibit less mutated and dangerous behaviors. These animals live peacefully among the levels that they’ve chosen to inhabit, often eating surviving smaller deep sea creatures that are cultivated by the Alphean society they’ve chosen. In return, these gentle giants offer a degree of security against dangers that come to threaten their levels, either other titans or law enforcement that rarely makes its way down into the depths. These titans also are often the only harbor for surviving flora on Rigarios, as their craggy scales and hibernation life cycle allowed for life to thrive from ocean vents releasing key nutrients. In return, these mossy titans are essential in giving oxygen back to the deep, as the plants drink in the carbon dioxide that the Alpheans produce and do their own variation of deep sea photosynthesis.

Schooled Living

Rigarios was initially founded by the Deep Sea Alpheans that fled from Alph’Ea at the end of the Alphean war between the land and the deep sea that occurred on Alph’Ea centuries ago. With their departure they left with all of their high tech innovations and started society anew on a remote planet far out in the inky blackness of space, away from the rest of the system.Rigarios has experienced a radio blackout because no upper level Alphean with access to the radio system has a current propensity for free will. Due to the implosion of Supernova and the nature of the Ojaxian decaying process, Supernova has inadvertently spread spores to a majority of the Alpheans on the upper levels of Rigarios that are accessed by the water currents. These mind spores are usually short term defensive mechanisms employed by Ojaxians to escape to a safe space, but as Supernova is stuck in a state of disassociation, this has become a long term effect.The nature of the mind spores is usually a short term suggestion to unity and peace at the cost of a lack of independent thought to allow freedom of movement from the Ojaxian. However, long term effects can inadvertently mold and break the mind of the inhabitants over time as the biology of Ojaxians and Alpheans are not compatible in that way. This has caused all upper levels of Rigarios to become a monotonous shoal that follows the basic instincts of survival and goals of innovation set out by the initial parameters.Any Alpheans on the upper level are essentially zombies that follow the rhythm of Supernova. These Alpheans will go to work, eat their portions, and maybe interact with each other on a superficial level that has no meaning. These Alpheans generally don’t have individuality in anything, from clothing to bed type. When they pass away, these Alpheans also assimilate into the fungal structure of Supernova, a vein on the ground that survives with the proximity and extends Supernova’s reach. Due to this complication, most upper level Alpheans don’t have the mind to fix damaged buildings or travel down to layers of Rigarios that aren’t in their immediate function path. Instead, these Alpheans continue to slowly build upwards towards some unknowable goal as they ignore those below.However, the spores from Supernova can only be carried so far by the waterways, as some levels are separated by layers of rock, sediment, and utilities layers that eventually take the majority of spores from the moving water stream. This means that lower level Alpheans on Rigarios are less likely to be affected by long term spore intake and have formed a parallel but independent society to the upper levels. Instead, Alpheans down here live and work in small jobs that benefit their layers and build the best they can to keep their aging buildings functional, even if they aren’t the most aesthetic.Unfortunately, due to their differences and the depths away from the upper levels these planets are, these layers have been long left behind and are usually in poor state by the time they are freed from Supernova’s defenses. This means they are also unable to break the radio silence due to their depth and incompatible technology with extenders present in other layers. Often these layers are closed off and isolated from other layers until other free layers reach out to them. At this point in time, a lot of the lower layers are in bartering agreements and systems that replace the monetary system of the upper levels as they reconnect with community and the little nature left around them.

Deep Sea Biology

Alpheans living on Rigarios are unique in build to other oceanwalkers and deep sea Alpheans, with the exception of the remnants of deep sea society on Alph’Ea. These oceanwalkers have thick forearms to be used like paddles for easy movement in the water and the pressure that they’re under in the deep sea. These Alpheans also have bioluminescent aspects woven into their biology, whether it be esca or translucent skin that glows with an inner light, allowing for them to see and be seen in the dark, even without specialized art. Other smaller changes to internal biology have also been made in order for these deep sea Alpheans to thrive in the deep sea, with many not having the capacity to be in shallower water.