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Timeline

2015-03-30T00:56:29Z

Covert0ddity: /* Present Day */

{{Navbox Lore}}
While [[History of Man| Human history]] is long and diverse, with multiple perspectives and a myriad of details that vary between accounts, here is a more succint summary of the more recent events in the history of mankind.

==The Second Space Age==

'''2045''': After a period of decline in American power, a number of Great Powers form: the United States, the European Union, the People's Republic of China, and the Republic of India. A number of regional powers also rise, including Russia, Brazil, Nigeria, Indonesia, Mexico, and Korea.

'''2075''': Research into viable space travel yields results. Slightly faster than conventional space travel through the use of practical nuclear engines.
Earth pop: 9.5 billion.

'''2085''': Human settlements on Luna and Mars established, low populations.
Earth pop: 9.55 billion.

'''2100''': Stream of Earth-based resources begin to trickle. Governments begin to subsidize off-world colonization efforts. Large-scale colonization/mining operations on Luna, Mars, other near Earth bodies.

'''2125''': Earth’s resources begin to be stretched to the breaking point. Luna and Mars populations reach the millions, steady stream of resources back to Earth keep the nations there afloat. Resource shortages cause the worst economic crisis on Earth since the Great Depression.
Earth pop: 10 billion.

'''2130''': Scientists discover Warp Technology, marking the start of the Interstellar Era. Spurred by fears of resource collapse and anarchy on Earth probes are sent out to perform in-depth charting nearest systems. Luna and Mars see large population increases.
Earth pop: 10.01 billion.

'''2140''': Hundreds of probes are sent to survey nearby star systems and potential candidates for colonization. The Sol Alliance, individual nations and private interests quickly organize colonization missions to these worlds. United Nations convene and form the Sol Alliance, a supranational body “to oversee the colonization and development of Solar and Extrasolar bodies”. There was moderate opposition to the measure, mainly stemming from general anti-United Nations sentiment.

'''2147''': Biesel is discovered in Tau Ceti by Sol Alliance probes; a medium sized terracompatible world, efforts to colonise it begin quickly.

'''2152''': A second garden world is discovered in the Epsilon Eridani system, along with a number of near-compatible worlds.

'''2155''': Garden worlds closest to Earth see massive population increases as colony ships make round trips between the settlements and Sol. Einstein Engines becomes the first Transstellar corporation, specializing in producing Warp engines and supplying colonists with cheap colonization modules. Several earth governments enforce rationing, while tensions rise over resource use. Several disputes escalate into border skirmishes. The Sol Alliance, lacking any authority over Earth itself, is unable to intervene.

'''2185''': Earth begins to stabilize as birth rates are kept in check and people continue to leave for garden worlds. Earth relies on Mars, Luna, and the most developed garden worlds for resources. Earth enters a period of political stability. Due to Earth’s dependence upon imported extrasolar resources, the nations of Earth sign the Treaty of Mumbai, giving the Sol Alliance the authority a degree of authority over the extrasolar affairs of individual nations. Sol Alliance is afforded more power over Earth affairs, as a result of its direct control of the Colonies Earth depends on for resources.
Earth pop: 10.2 billion. Total pop: 12 billion.

'''2200''': The Martian Terraforming Project begins, leading to a boom in martian immigration. The largest extrasolar garden world attain populations in the hundreds of millions.The Sol Alliance forms the Central Administrative Zone (CAZ), giving it formal authority over Earth itself. The CAZ represents an attempt to end the anarchic system of international relations and act as a moderator between the nations of Earth. In conjunction with the formation of the CAZ, the Sol Alliance issues the Sol Credit, the official currency of humanity. Although initially intended for use on the various extrasolar colonies, it would eventually start to displace the national currencies as Earth becomes more economically homogenous.
Earth pop: 10.75 billion. Total pop: 14 billion.

'''2215''': Second wave of scouting operations map systems further out from the existing extra-solar colonies. Second wave of colonization efforts.The first-wave colony worlds begin to reach economic maturity, with many achieving a standard of living rivalling or exceeding that of Earth. The Martian terraforming project fails, and millions die in rapid environmental degradation. Massive waves of immigrants leave Earth and Mars for the inner colonies. In many systems, corporations have established extensive asteroid mining operations. In the face of increased piracy and lawlessness in the outer colonies, the Solarian Unified Command forms for the purpose of maintaining order in Sol Alliance space.
Earth pop: 9.5 billion. Total pop: 13.5 billion.

'''2250''': New garden worlds discovered, Earth still dependent on resources from other planets. Depopulation of Earth leads to massive abandoned sections of cities. Colony worlds continue to grow exponentially, spurred on by cheap cost of colonization.
Earth Pop: 13 billion. Total Pop: 16.9 billion.

==The First Interstellar War - First Sol Alliance Civil War ==
'''2260''': Sol Alliance levy taxes on Earth for disproportionate use of resources (import a bunch, export little luxury resources). Earth-based ‘planetism’ increases. Sol Alliance stresses unity. Fringe elements in outer-most colonies begin to openly revolt against Sol Alliance administration, seen as the ‘Shackle of Earth-based oppression’.

'''2270''': Developing colonies better able to census planets populations: discovered that in total; billions of colonists exist spread across roughly 100 colonized worlds (besides Earth). Steadily improving habitation, agriculture and infrastructure technologies pave way for quick, efficient colonization. Earth population and politicians begin to look on with envy and disgust, Sol Alliance attempts to represent the ‘unifying’ force in human space.
Earth pop: 14 billion. Total pop: 19.8 billion.

'''2275''': Open hostilities break out in fringe systems (what are now the mid to outer colonies), spurred on by extremist elements and anti-Alliance sentiments. Sol Alliance is slow to respond, paralyzed by confusion and uncertainty. As a result, other Colonies on the fringe begin to break away, seeing the Alliance as ineffective at supporting them.

'''2278''': First Interstellar War breaks out. Most radical fringe worlds declare war on Alliance, attacking Alliance military garrisons and ships. Hit and run tactics are used, with the occasional suicide attack. Alliance forces are overwhelmed and in disarray. Political gridlock as Earth urges Alliance to completely annihilate rebels as more moderate inner colonies stress restraint. Earth resents ‘Its colonies’ for disagreeing with it.

'''2285''': More ‘outer’ but not ‘fringe’ colonies break away as Alliance proves ineffective in dealing with rebel threat. Rebels begin attacking each other, more extremist factions fighting more moderate ones. The present day outer systems becomes very dangerous place. Several large coalitions in the ‘outer colonies’ officially declare independence (they were already practically independent), and begin fighting rebels elements who venture into their space. Sol, Inner and Mid Colonies remain with the Sol Alliance. Outer colonies are mostly independent.
Earth pop: 14.2 billion. Total pop: 21.1 billion.

'''2286''': Many Megacorporations profit from the war, selling arms to one or both sides, trading in dangerous systems and staking claims in otherwise dangerous locations. Earth convinces Sol Alliance to begin wiping out extremist factions in the frontier to ‘eradicate the anarchists that threaten our peace’. The Earth is satisfied and the Colonies are largely horrified. The Sol Alliance is dominated by ‘Hawkish’ politicians, which issue proclamations that extremist and rebellious colonists will not be tolerated. ‘Independent’ outer colonies build up their militaries in response.

==The Resource Wars==
'''2290:''' Colonies continue to see pop increases. Earth continues to suffer from resource shortages. Earth feels effects of almost three centuries of continued colonization efforts, with the colonies starting to be unable to support it. Radical elements come to power in Earth-governments. Age old national rivalries are revived. Sol Alliance begins to shift its power-base off Earth.
Earth pop: 14.3 billion. Human pop: 22.6 billion.

'''2300:''' The administration of the Sol Alliance is moved to the newly constructed Unity City, a space station in Earth orbit. The new capital is intended to increase ease of access while also better reflecting the Alliance’s stated mission to represent all of humanity, not just any single nation. Meanwhile, Earth continues to use the Alliance to exploit its colonies.
Earth pop: 14.4 billion. Total pop: 24 billion.

'''2310:''' As the population of Earth grows, it begins to drain more and more resources from the colonies. The inner colonies experience massive trade deficits with Earth, enforced by special laws exempting Earth goods from local taxes. This hamstrings the development of local industry in the colonies. Several colonies petition for increased autonomy within the Sol Alliance, and unrest develops on several worlds. Earth enacts sanctions against the more rebellious colonies.

==The Fall of Earth - The Great War==
'''2314:''' Several of the largest inner colonies petition the Earth-dominated Alliance government for increased autonomy and decreased trade restrictions. Earth gives only token concessions to these colonies, causing widespread unrest which many colonial authorities refuse to quell. Several colonies refuse to enforce trade restrictions, causing Earth to declare martial law in these systems and send Sol Alliance fleets to restore order. Many of these fleets mutiny and refuse to follow orders. Within a month, the Alliance military is split along Earth and Inner-Colony lines.

A coalition of inner colonies form the Provisonal Government of the Alliance of Solarian Colonies (PGASC), which declares itself the legitimate government of the Sol Alliance. This event marks the beginning of the Great War.

Earth pop: 14.5 billion. Total pop: 26 billion.

'''2315:''' Following an initial period of confused fighting, the Earth forces withdraw to Sol and several nearby minor star systems, threatening to unleash Kinetic Kill Vehicles (KKV's) should PGASC forces enter the Sol System. The various colonial navies rush to manufacture their own KKV's. A cold war of sorts begins. Cut off from outside trade, the Sol system's economy begins to implode.

'''2316:''' PGASC ground forces establish footholds on Luna, Mars and Earth. Months of intense fighting leave millions dead on both sides. KKV's are used sparingly, and none of fired (directly) at cities.

'''2317:''' The PGASC captures Mars and brings the brunt of it's forces to Earth and Luna. Many cities including Los Angeles, Shanghai, Cairo, London and Cape Town are heavily damaged by intense fighting. Several Space Elevators are destroyed. The two sides continue to jokey for control over pockets of space above Earth.

'''2318:''' The PGASC manages to destroy Unity City space station, crippling Alliance forces. The Alliance and Earth based governments surrender to the PGASC. The Sol Alliance is reworked, granting the inner colonies much more independence and power within the government. The Sol System is in tatters. Humanity rebuilds.

Earth population: 12.9 billion. Total human population: 22.1 billion.

'''2330:''' Refugees continue to leave Earth for slightly better off Mars and Luna. The Terran economy is reworked with sustainability and resource-conservation in mind.

==Tensions within the Sol Alliance==
===Formation of Nanotrasen===
'''2346:''' Formation of Nanotrasen by Xavier Trasen. Initially specializes in advanced gen therapey. It eventually becomes a scientific company, rivaling Einstein Engines.

===The Warp Gate Project and the Secession Crisis===
'''2355:''' The [[Bluespace|Warp Gate project]] begins with the goal of connecting the most populated inner colonies via permanent orbital gates, allowing for instantaneous transportation between them. The work itself is contracted out to a number of trans-stellar corporations, with the Sol Alliance shouldering most of the cost. Trans-stellars help rebuild Sol Alliance fleets. Military ‘indebted’ to Trans-stellars. Sol Alliance establishes formal relations with outer colonies.

'''2365:''' Earth regains it symbolic status as Humanity's homeworld. A new breed of Terran politicians reject Earth-centrism in favor of harmony. Whether a genuine change of heart of a PR stunt, aid is diverted from Luna and Mars towards Earth, accelerating reconstruction.

'''2370:''' Warp Gate project financially drains Sol Alliance. Support for project decreases, some inner-colonies (mostly those not receiving a warp gate in their system) riot.

'''2376:''' A number of inner colonies secede from the Sol Alliance, in protest of the Warp Gate Project's exorbitant cost. Many within these colonies are suspicious of the Sol Alliance, which they see as an insider meddling in their affairs and draining them of funds. The fleets of local governments engage Sol Alliance ships in contested systems. Minimal loss of life on surface of planets: Fleets and orbital installations are the primary targets. However, the war causes a major disruption in trade, causing considerable damage to the Alliance's economy. The Warp Gate project is put on hold.

'''2379:''' Many outer colonies, emboldened by a surge in nationalism and the disorder within the Sol Alliance, war among themselves for land and resources. Low-intensity warfare breaks out between several of the larger empires, with a handful of systems changing hands and further encroachment upon Sol Alliance space. A few large-scale atrocities occur, with whole cities and even planets being bombarded from orbit. By this time, a majority of the secessionist forces have been defeated and most of them have already surrendered. Peace talks begin with the remaining Secessionist forces. Construction resumes on the Warp Gate project.

'''2384:''' The Warp Gate Project is completed; The Secession War ends with casualties in the tens of millions. A number of concessions are made to secessionist states in order to secure a lasting peace, although Anti-alliance sentiment still lingers in many areas. Outer colonies continue to war with each other, but the extent of the conflict is scaled back. As they expanded operations on the largely lawless frontier, Trans-stellars were forced to arm themselves and either contracted or bought mercenary services to protect their cargo. These same mercenary services would later diversify their operations, offering their services to various interstellar governments.

'''2390:''' The Warp Gates bring an influx of wealth to the inner-colonies closest to them, but disrupt several established trade routes, leading to economic decline in several systems. The Sol Alliance, largely bankrupt from the Warp Gate project and the Secession War, is forced to grant independence to a number of border systems. These worlds quickly join various outer colony nations. These new holdings of the outer colony empires greatly boost their economies (these worlds were built up by the Sol Alliance before seceding, and have on average larger populations and more developed infrastructure than their outer colony cousins).
Earth Pop: 12.99 billion. Human pop: 29 billion.

==The Rise of Nanotrasen==
===Advancement of Trans-stellars===
'''2400:''' Some of the most ‘inner’ colony worlds of the Alliance reach population as high as the several billions. War in the outer colonies die down. Resentment towards the central government persists in several Alliance systems. Trans-stellars capitalize on immense profits from the past decades, diversifying to a great degree. Some begin swearing allegiances to these corporations, sick of the outer colonies’ wars and/or the Sol Alliance’s slow decay.
Human pop: 31 billion.

'''2403:''' NanoTransen acquires the mining rights to the Romanovich Cloud in the Tau Ceti system (an Inner-inner colony system).

'''2410:''' Trans-stellars begin more heavy duty Sol Alliance lobbying efforts. In the outer colonies, Trans-stellar begin to bully some smaller nations, threatening to cut off military, resource, supply and/or financial support unless they give in to demands. All Trans-stellars are of roughly equal power, having established a sort of ‘stability’ between themselves, specializing in distinct fields.

Sol Alliance begins to stagnate; Intra-Alliance trade tapers off as more systems become self-sufficient. Potentially more profitable trade routes from inner to developing outer colonies (which are proving more profitable than intra-Alliance trade) are expensive and fuel intensive. Energy crises develop on several worlds as supplies of energy resources along with centuries old power generating techniques (fusion, traditional combustion) prove insufficient to deal with rising energy demand.
Human pop: 32 billion

===The First Contact===
'''2413:''' First contact with Skrell people. Sends shockwaves throughout human space. Skrellians have an established ‘confederacy of systems’ spread out over dozens of star systems. Sol Alliance and Skrellian Confederacy quickly draft a cooperation treaty. Skrell and Alliance begin conducting joint research projects and colonization efforts. Human, Skrell populations intermingle. Combining their research into FTL travel, Skrell and Human scientists co-develop Bluespace drivers, which have a much longer range and are much faster than traditional warp drives. However, a large amount of traditional fuel sources are required to jump-start bluespace drivers.

===Discovery of Plasma===
'''2417:''' In the Romanovich Cloud in the outer edges of Tau Ceti, NT discovers the resource ‘plasma’. Its extremely energy efficient properties alleviate the growing energy crises on several worlds. Plasma quickly becomes the prefered fuel and energy generating commodity. NT becomes excessively wealthy; Trans-stellar ‘stability’ shattered as NT quickly patents and monopolizes ‘plasma refining’ technique. Other transtellars petition Sol Alliance for sanctions, but are ignored. Foundation for the Syndicate forms in furious trans-stellars and the Alliance Senators that support them. Bluespace drives and the extremely profitable Inner-colony to outer colony trade routes made viable by plasma. Inner-colonies provide outer-colonies with luxury goods for massive profits.

'''2420:''' The last reconstruction efforts are finished on Earth. Earth' economy now focuses on selling sophisticated and luxury items to all human colonies. The introdcution of plasma greatly eases it's electricity issues. Some Earth-centrism remains, but Humanity's homeworld is once again respected throughout human space.

Human Pop: 35 billion.

'''2425:''' Bluespace Link gates begin to pop-up in the most developed systems across Human and Skrell space. The Alliance Sol Warp Gates are upgraded with Bluespace technology, greatly increasing their efficiency.

==The Discovery of New Sentients==
===The Tajara===
'''2432:''' First contact with Tajaran people. NT scouts discover the Tajaran homeworld and people just beginning to explore their solar system. NT greets them as ‘representatives of humanity’. Over the course of the next few decades, NT ‘uplifts’ the Tajaran people by building a series of factories on their homeworld, employing numerous Tajarans and helping propel them into space. Tajarans become reliant on NT and subservient to them. Seen as 2nd class citizens somewhat by a portion of humanity.

===The Uneth===
'''2433:''' An exploration mission to an uncharted desert planet uncovers the Unathi, a highly aggressive race that apparently survived a self-destructive nuclear war. With their homeworld ruled by various small tribes, many Unathi are ‘picked up’ from their homeworld by various governments and corporations and ‘employed’. Some are granted citizenship. They enjoy a higher degree of respect then the Tajara, but are still looked upon with suspicion and distrust.

==The Syndicate==
'''2440:''' NT leverages its plasma monopoly to effectively take-over several systems in the outer colonies. NT begins increasing the size of its merchant navy and security forces, while 'convincing' more local governments to grant protection to NT holdings. Sol Alliance supports NT despite growing public outrage. Talk of NT buying Senators. Resentment of NT grows in some systems across human space. Extremist elements in fringe systems recruited by burgeoning Syndicate.

'''2445:''' Medical and cloning technological advances cause population boom. Syndicate begins staging small scale assaults using sleeper cells against NT across space; targeting anything NT from plasma refinement centers to orbital corporate habitation complexes. NT uses this as pretext to continue to expand its security forces. NT begins to heavily lobby the local governments of Tau Ceti, their chief plasma mining system.
Human pop: 41 billion.

'''2450:''' Tau Ceti local government ‘extremely’ pro-NT. Allegations of bribery largely ignored or swept under the rug. Syndicate operations steadily increase in intensity.

'''2452:''' Fringe systems flare up as ‘terrorists’ (e.g. Syndicate) attacks NT corporate interests there. Outer and Inner Systems also see an increase in Syndicate operations, but on a more covert scale. NT and Tau Ceti Local Government ‘Republic of Biesel’ petition Sol Alliance for establishment of ‘Tau Ceti Free Trade Zone’, jointly administered by the two. Sol Alliance reluctantly establishes the Free Trade Zone, giving NT a foothold in the center of Alliance Space. Riots break out over accusations of NT essentially ‘buying the Republic of Beisel’. NT puts down the riots quickly and effectively. Syndicate begins active recruitment of discontent Tau Ceti Citizens. NT institutes Loyalty Implanting requirements for all executives, a ‘voluntarily and painless’ process. Implants are also used to quell the most radical opposition to NT rule, all kept hush-hush, though.

'''2454:''' NT establishes a series of orbital mixed-used stations in Tau Ceti to act as R&D, Medical, Population and command and Control hubs. Among these are the research/mining station NSS Aurora in the Romanovich Cloud and the new Command Hub of NT: the Odin, aka ‘CentComm’ or ‘Central Command’. Tau Ceti administered by a combination of Republic of Biesel and NanoTransen Tau Ceti Advisory Committee, but both are ultimately subject to Sol Alliance laws (in theory).

==Present Day==
'''2457:''' Current Date. NT is an economic powerhouse which the Sol Alliance relies on for plasma to keep its trade routes to the outer colonies alive and satisfy the energy needs of its largest colonies. Anti-NT sentiment grows in Tau Ceti, but many others continue to support the megacorporation keeping the gears of the (human) galactic economy going.

However, the Syndicate continues to position itself to strike back against the NT on a larger scale; and many more exotic, fantastical elements of the universe such as the Vox, undiscovered alien life, extremists, even ancient powers beyond comprehension may be moving to strike at arguably the most powerful organization in human space.

'''Current Human population: 47.5 billion'''
{{Navbox Lore}}

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2015-03-24T00:45:40Z

Covert0ddity:

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! colspan="3" style="width: 100%; background-color:#C0C0C0" | [[:Category:Lore|Quick Navigation]]
|-
! style="width: 10%" colspan="2"| [[Background_summary#Main_Spacefaring_Races|Races]]
| align="left" | [[Background_summary#Humanity|Humanity]] · [[Skrell|Skrell]] · [[Tajara]] · [[Unathi]] · [[Dionaea]] · [[Vaurca]] · [[Vox]]
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! style="width: 10%" colspan="2"| [[:Category:Corporations|Corporations]]
| align="left" | [[Nanotrasen Corporation]] · [[Hephaestus Industries]]
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! style="width: 10%" colspan="2"| [[:Category:Factions|Factions]]
| " align="left" |[[Sol Alliance]] · [[Republic of Biesel]] · [[Eridani Federation]] · [[Republic of Elyra]]
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! style="width: 10%" colspan="2"| [[:Category:Planets and Systems|Planets and Systems]]
| align="left" | [[Epsilon Eridani]] · [[Sol]] · [[Tau Ceti]] · [[Altair]] · [[Trimurti_%28Gliese_581%29|Trimurti]]
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! style="width: 10%" colspan="2"| [[:Category:Misc|Miscellaneous]]
| align="left" | [[Timeline]] · [[Economy]] · [[Languages]] · [[Bluespace]]
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Vaurca

2015-03-24T00:38:03Z

Covert0ddity: /* Military Projection */

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in
multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on December 21, 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [http://aurorastation.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=28 here]

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===The Old Era===

The earliest records of Vaurca intelligence range from some time starting between 100,000 and 150,00 years ago. During this period, the first signs of actual documentation and history are recorded. According to the documents and few murals, nomadism claims all the primitive hives due to the harsh nature of the planet. Queens venture with their workers by their side, exhausting caves of one of the only food substances on the planet. This nomadism is caused because of the harsh nature of the moon, orbitting the intensely radioactive gas giant, Sedantis I. Despite the lack of resources, a structure is seen taken place during this time, as there is evidence of a culture of warfare being brought up. Some battles are seen depicted on cave murals, and a sense of honor is creaed around drones where, if victorious in battle, the enemy bodies must be consumed after their head is severed from the body with the victor's mandibles. All fighting was done using the claws on a drone's hand, with mandibles, or usage of the legs; although tools existed, it seemed using them in battle was a form of taboo. This may explain why most warriors of present day Vaurca use weaponry integrated into themselves; a way to fight more efficiently without breaking their code of honor.

===The Era of Change===

Approximately 60,000 years ago, the nomadism is recorded to have ceased, with the developement of large-scale farming of their primary fungus foodsource. This leads to a massive increase of drones, and some hives are recorded to nearly cover entire deserts. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. The old honor system begins to be discarded, as steel forges begin creating weapons like the ranged 'Spike Maul,' a primitive but effective cross-bow weapon that fires barbed spikes at a high velocity, and 'Claws of Steel,' metal encasings around the already formdiable claws of the drones. Similar developements that humans also discovered were made, such as simple spears and axe-like weapons.Some armors are created to counteract the effects of weapons like these. Some warriors were known as 'Yuis'uit'oi,' meaning 'The Riders,' as they would ride some of the indigenous species of their planet into battle. These animals included the massive beetles known coaqually as 'scarabs' to humans. Scarabs were driven to extinction due to their constant use in warfare and inability to breed fast enough to cope with their numbers falling. Many massive battles of several hundred thousand warriors are recorded from this era, and vast cities can still be discovered on Sedantis, remnants of these once massive hives.

Despite war being a massive part of the Era of Change, there appears to be massive improvements in governmental systems. According to ancient manuscripts, the Queen was reduced from being the center, ruling body of the hive to a simple breeding and advisory tool. Evidence of larger hives, such as the Zo'ra hive, are ruled by an elected Council, making decisions that effect the hive in total. This gives evidence that all, or nearly every, Vaurca was originally self aware and chose its own path in life.

===The Era of Augments===

The Era of Change ended approximately 20,000 years ago, when the technological and cultural growth reached a head after the developement of nuclear technology. While always prone to augmenting themselves, any attempts to completely genetically change a given drone, or even cybernetically enhance it ended in catastrophic failure that ended in death for the subject. This phenomenon occured for unknown reasons. Evidence suggests that the Vaurca either had a lucky break, or discovered a form of alien technology on their home-moon, that allowed them to suddenly completely engineer themselves cybernetically, but also on the genetic level, leaving what we know as Vaurca today; the three biological and cultural castes, and the 'paradise' of the Queen. Fundemantal changes began to strike across the entire race as the old ways were solidified into a modern work-horse fueled by the new power and efficiency of the workers and soldiers. Workers could work for ten times as long, five times as hard, and for 25% of the food and water originally needed, and soldiers could be much more terrifying and formidable in battle. While the augments offered many new freedoms, a certain physical system began to occur as a soldier who was given war augments, could not easibly be an efficient general purpose worker or artist, and left it trapped within the war caste indefinitely; which began to become a social problem, as most hatchlings were given augments that hardened them for a future role from birth, a role that most did not want. A Vaurca who had wanted to become a farmer would end up being a pilot, or part hazerdous waste disposal team.

This lack of social freedom paved way for the enigmatic development of the 'Paradise' we see today, where the conscioussness of a Vaurca is downloaded onto the virtual reality hub of the Queen, and from there can do anything, be anything, simulate anything or converse with fellow Vaurca from the nueral level; experiencing emotions on an entire new dynamic, something unrelateable by other sentient species. After the developement of the Paradise, all warriors and workers are drones, nothing more. Mindless (but effective, efficient, and cost-less) machines that work for the hive, while their minds explore the limitless reality offered within the Type CA.

===The Era of Stars===

Movement into the stars for the Vaurca was inevitable, despite the fear they have of the sky and its possible connotation of hell. Initial movement into the stars was recorded after the Vaurca discovery of fusion power, approximately 12,000 years ago, encompassing the entirety of human history itself. Starting with unmanned probes and progressing to massive STL colony ships, Vaurca space history has been something of a mystery, as no hive discovered FTL prior to human contact, apart from the War-Driven Lii'dra hive, but even they only discovered the secrets of warp technology conveniently close to human contact; only 40 years before. The reason that no hive discovered FTL technology is theorised that they did not observe, or had no chance to observe, some of hte natural phenomenon that other races learned FTL technology from; like observing a wormhole for warp, or testing for resonance cascade scenario such as Dr. Samantha Tigard and her Skrellian science team were attempting to study.

This non-developement of FTL led to many difficult situations for interstellar hives, such as the Zo'ra, K'lax, Lii'dra, and other major hives. Because they could not feasibly house entire fleets, they were led to the developement of 'Star Homes' or, 'Titan Primes,' as they are named by human observers. These Star Homes are massive constructs, and capable of multi-tasking many different functionalities. Star Homes are battleships, colony ships, mobile incubators, carriers, refineries, and production facilities all in their own. Being very modular, they can exchange parts and are easily repairable if damaged as long as there is an abundance of resources, such as an asteroid or planet. Star Homes carry smaller warships in case enemy hives come in contact with them, but due to sheer size and scale, are fully capable of combatting another Star Home or smaller vessels if forced to do so; but only as a last resort. Through the use of Star Homes, the Vaurca have been able to more or less populate the habitable systems of the Spider nebula, and through the use of FTL communicators have been able to hold weak governmental fabric amongst hives.

Prior to human contact, most hives were at war with each other, with the leaderboards reading the Lii'dra hive as winning, and the Zo'ra hive and its allies as losing. While tensions have never been fully settled, when presented with the drive technologically advanced Lii'dra, most hives united under the banner of the Zo'ra who were the most populous hive, and comparably advanced, but not to the Lii'dra. The Lii'dra inexpleicable developed Warp technology, and were using it to systematically destroy the Star Homes of Zo'ra and its allies, as well as their colonies.

===Contact with Humanity (The New Era)===

None of the species of the galaxy had any idea that the Vaurca existed until an eventful day in November, 2456 when the drive plume and heat signature of a massive ship burning its engine in order to slow down for an approach was detected near the Romanovich cloud, in Tau Ceti. While the galaxy was taken aback by this information, the Sol Alliance ( With NanoTrasen Assistance) acted immediately. A small scout vessel was dispatched to the ship, which was revelead to be a 30 kilometer (18.23 mile) vessel, mostly engine and radiator. Dubbed 'Titan Prime' by the media, Tau Ceti and news places over the known galaxy were bubbling with excitement as the object approached its apparent destination: Biesel.

After a few weeks, the object passed the Romanovich cloud and dispatched over twenty drones to key locations in Tau Ceti. Some of these locations included the NMSS Odin, the ASV Von Braun, ASV Arcadia, NSS Aurora, NSS Exodus, NMV Retaliation, and one to each planet. These drones were tiny compared to the ship; and even to fighters of the current generation, spanning about twenty meters long and seven tall. Although all drones dispatched to the location turned back immediately, one did not. The one that was headed for the NSS Aurora stayed, and in fact, contacted the station through use of the station's own intercommunication system; displaying a single, unintelligible message. After a period of three hours, the crew were dispatched to the probe and entered, finding a hollow vessel. In the middle was a single alien computer, and in a corner of a room were Vaurca eggs, presumably for use in early colonization.

Research crew of the NSS Aurora, including Dr. Phoebe Essel and team were able to interact with the computer, painstakingly finding ways to translate the cryptic language it was attempting to speak in, and after usage of a pAI, were able to teach the machine Tau Ceti Basic. After some conversation, the computer detached itself and was brought aboard the NSS Aurora for a psuedo-first contact situation. During this time, humanity learned that the probe was, in fact, a type BC Vaurca, and that it had been sent in order to document the indigenous species of the solar system. The computer tapped into the bluespace connection of the Artificial Intelligence of the station, uploaded core data files onto its hardware, and then departed.

From this point on, communications diplomatically occured. First radio contact was established with the Prime Minister of the Sol Alliance, Chief Executive Officer and Board of Directorates of NanoTrasen, and the Type CA of Titan Prime. It was learned that the vessel was sent approximately three thousand years ago on a colinization mission from the Spider Nebula, a dense cluster that none of the known species took any interest in. It was also learned that Titan Prime housed six million Vuarca on it, a staggering number for even a vessel of that massive size. Basic history was exchanged, and preperations occured for a bluespace gate to be built in the Spider Nebula, specifically the star system of Sedantis (Home of the species, and currently owned by the Zo'ra hive). This would connect the race with the other species of the galaxy for technological advancement, diplomacy, trade, and other boons of galactic community.

While the construction ships assembled, Titan Prime came closer to Biesel, but, before settling into a stable orbit around the planet, disaster struck. A lone destroyer accompanied by a wing of piggy-packing frigates, owned by the violently anti-alien, pro-human organization known as 'Terran Confederacy of Truth Crusaders,' or TFTC, managed to steer through the blockade put up by Sol Alliance military vessels. The ship and its compatriots fired four nuclear missiles, and managed to get around fourty mass driver shots into the ship before simultaneousley being apprehended by Titan Prime's weaponry, and Sol Military ships.

While the ship was prepared to take damage, it was not ready for a surprise attack. The attack crippled parts of the ship and killed over 40,000 Vaurca. An emergency distress call was sent towards NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance, and they acted immediately. Ferries, re-purposed cargo ships, and civilian shuttles evacuated 2 million inhabitants of Titan Prime, ferrying them mostly to New Gibson and Biesel, respectively. Evacuations are still undergoing, but damage to Titan Prime and chaos in the ship is making it more difficult. The Queens and type CB of the ship were rescued first, and are reportedly residing in stations housed by the Alliance or in the Provinces, and one Type CB resides within the Administration district of Mendell City, acting as diplomat.

Today, over a million and a half bound and unbound Vaurca live in 'Provinces,' a non-offensive term for the concentration camp-like slums they are forced into on New Gibson, and over 500,000 Vaurca live in similar 'Provinces' on Biesel. Officials are extremely worried about the cost of continued evacuation of Titan Prime, as the quick-breeding Vaurca could out-breed the already solidified civilian population in sixteen years.

Back in the Spider Nebula, however, the tides of war turn as knowledge from Titan Prime flows in from the Bluespace gate that was recently built. Since first contact, the Zo'ra hive has discovered Bluespace, and extremely advanced forms of weaponry, turning them against their own kind. Since a week after the bluespace gate was built, the Zo'ra hive is currently undergoing a war of conquest, and subjegating other hives as 'Client Hives' which work and build for the Zo'ra hive, enslaving hives, or utterly destroying the hives that do not surrender. Since the Lii'dra hive had been tormenting the Zo'ra hive for a longer period of time, the Zo'ra hive has hit Lii'dra extremely hard, taking down their number of colonies and Star Homes by 75%. The Lii'dra, who refuse to surrender, fight with the ferocity of knowing they will be destroyed if the Zo'ra are not stopped, and similar hives are beggining to ally under a new banner - the Banner of the Lii'dra; one of xenophobia and war.

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

[[File:ambassadorzor.jpg|thumb|right|Ambassador Va'zuilts Zo'ra, a Type CB 'Prince' ambassador for the Zo'ra Hive, currently living in an embassy in Mendell City, Biesel. It is adorned in Alliance gear for the sake of decency.]]

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two opposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

===Internal Organs===

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

===Limbs===

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 14 currently operational, 7 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 79.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 90% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 86% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 34
*Colonies operational: 23
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 2 currently operational, 4 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 14.2% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 5 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 37.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 20% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 7
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.8 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Information for Whitelisted Players=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Have a nifty bite function. Click on 'bite' in IC tab with an aggressive hold and you shred into them with mandibles.
*Can see in the dark, a little more than tajarans, so pretty well.
*Minor brute damage buff. X.5 addition.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage. x2 exactly.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge. Basically, no cross-departmental, Unbound or Bound alike.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Can't be any form of head, unless you count a Quartermaster as a head.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) If you're a drone, basically, everyone has free reign to abuse you.

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca

2015-03-24T00:37:22Z

Covert0ddity: /* Military Projection */

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in
multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on December 21, 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [http://aurorastation.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=28 here]

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===The Old Era===

The earliest records of Vaurca intelligence range from some time starting between 100,000 and 150,00 years ago. During this period, the first signs of actual documentation and history are recorded. According to the documents and few murals, nomadism claims all the primitive hives due to the harsh nature of the planet. Queens venture with their workers by their side, exhausting caves of one of the only food substances on the planet. This nomadism is caused because of the harsh nature of the moon, orbitting the intensely radioactive gas giant, Sedantis I. Despite the lack of resources, a structure is seen taken place during this time, as there is evidence of a culture of warfare being brought up. Some battles are seen depicted on cave murals, and a sense of honor is creaed around drones where, if victorious in battle, the enemy bodies must be consumed after their head is severed from the body with the victor's mandibles. All fighting was done using the claws on a drone's hand, with mandibles, or usage of the legs; although tools existed, it seemed using them in battle was a form of taboo. This may explain why most warriors of present day Vaurca use weaponry integrated into themselves; a way to fight more efficiently without breaking their code of honor.

===The Era of Change===

Approximately 60,000 years ago, the nomadism is recorded to have ceased, with the developement of large-scale farming of their primary fungus foodsource. This leads to a massive increase of drones, and some hives are recorded to nearly cover entire deserts. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. The old honor system begins to be discarded, as steel forges begin creating weapons like the ranged 'Spike Maul,' a primitive but effective cross-bow weapon that fires barbed spikes at a high velocity, and 'Claws of Steel,' metal encasings around the already formdiable claws of the drones. Similar developements that humans also discovered were made, such as simple spears and axe-like weapons.Some armors are created to counteract the effects of weapons like these. Some warriors were known as 'Yuis'uit'oi,' meaning 'The Riders,' as they would ride some of the indigenous species of their planet into battle. These animals included the massive beetles known coaqually as 'scarabs' to humans. Scarabs were driven to extinction due to their constant use in warfare and inability to breed fast enough to cope with their numbers falling. Many massive battles of several hundred thousand warriors are recorded from this era, and vast cities can still be discovered on Sedantis, remnants of these once massive hives.

Despite war being a massive part of the Era of Change, there appears to be massive improvements in governmental systems. According to ancient manuscripts, the Queen was reduced from being the center, ruling body of the hive to a simple breeding and advisory tool. Evidence of larger hives, such as the Zo'ra hive, are ruled by an elected Council, making decisions that effect the hive in total. This gives evidence that all, or nearly every, Vaurca was originally self aware and chose its own path in life.

===The Era of Augments===

The Era of Change ended approximately 20,000 years ago, when the technological and cultural growth reached a head after the developement of nuclear technology. While always prone to augmenting themselves, any attempts to completely genetically change a given drone, or even cybernetically enhance it ended in catastrophic failure that ended in death for the subject. This phenomenon occured for unknown reasons. Evidence suggests that the Vaurca either had a lucky break, or discovered a form of alien technology on their home-moon, that allowed them to suddenly completely engineer themselves cybernetically, but also on the genetic level, leaving what we know as Vaurca today; the three biological and cultural castes, and the 'paradise' of the Queen. Fundemantal changes began to strike across the entire race as the old ways were solidified into a modern work-horse fueled by the new power and efficiency of the workers and soldiers. Workers could work for ten times as long, five times as hard, and for 25% of the food and water originally needed, and soldiers could be much more terrifying and formidable in battle. While the augments offered many new freedoms, a certain physical system began to occur as a soldier who was given war augments, could not easibly be an efficient general purpose worker or artist, and left it trapped within the war caste indefinitely; which began to become a social problem, as most hatchlings were given augments that hardened them for a future role from birth, a role that most did not want. A Vaurca who had wanted to become a farmer would end up being a pilot, or part hazerdous waste disposal team.

This lack of social freedom paved way for the enigmatic development of the 'Paradise' we see today, where the conscioussness of a Vaurca is downloaded onto the virtual reality hub of the Queen, and from there can do anything, be anything, simulate anything or converse with fellow Vaurca from the nueral level; experiencing emotions on an entire new dynamic, something unrelateable by other sentient species. After the developement of the Paradise, all warriors and workers are drones, nothing more. Mindless (but effective, efficient, and cost-less) machines that work for the hive, while their minds explore the limitless reality offered within the Type CA.

===The Era of Stars===

Movement into the stars for the Vaurca was inevitable, despite the fear they have of the sky and its possible connotation of hell. Initial movement into the stars was recorded after the Vaurca discovery of fusion power, approximately 12,000 years ago, encompassing the entirety of human history itself. Starting with unmanned probes and progressing to massive STL colony ships, Vaurca space history has been something of a mystery, as no hive discovered FTL prior to human contact, apart from the War-Driven Lii'dra hive, but even they only discovered the secrets of warp technology conveniently close to human contact; only 40 years before. The reason that no hive discovered FTL technology is theorised that they did not observe, or had no chance to observe, some of hte natural phenomenon that other races learned FTL technology from; like observing a wormhole for warp, or testing for resonance cascade scenario such as Dr. Samantha Tigard and her Skrellian science team were attempting to study.

This non-developement of FTL led to many difficult situations for interstellar hives, such as the Zo'ra, K'lax, Lii'dra, and other major hives. Because they could not feasibly house entire fleets, they were led to the developement of 'Star Homes' or, 'Titan Primes,' as they are named by human observers. These Star Homes are massive constructs, and capable of multi-tasking many different functionalities. Star Homes are battleships, colony ships, mobile incubators, carriers, refineries, and production facilities all in their own. Being very modular, they can exchange parts and are easily repairable if damaged as long as there is an abundance of resources, such as an asteroid or planet. Star Homes carry smaller warships in case enemy hives come in contact with them, but due to sheer size and scale, are fully capable of combatting another Star Home or smaller vessels if forced to do so; but only as a last resort. Through the use of Star Homes, the Vaurca have been able to more or less populate the habitable systems of the Spider nebula, and through the use of FTL communicators have been able to hold weak governmental fabric amongst hives.

Prior to human contact, most hives were at war with each other, with the leaderboards reading the Lii'dra hive as winning, and the Zo'ra hive and its allies as losing. While tensions have never been fully settled, when presented with the drive technologically advanced Lii'dra, most hives united under the banner of the Zo'ra who were the most populous hive, and comparably advanced, but not to the Lii'dra. The Lii'dra inexpleicable developed Warp technology, and were using it to systematically destroy the Star Homes of Zo'ra and its allies, as well as their colonies.

===Contact with Humanity (The New Era)===

None of the species of the galaxy had any idea that the Vaurca existed until an eventful day in November, 2456 when the drive plume and heat signature of a massive ship burning its engine in order to slow down for an approach was detected near the Romanovich cloud, in Tau Ceti. While the galaxy was taken aback by this information, the Sol Alliance ( With NanoTrasen Assistance) acted immediately. A small scout vessel was dispatched to the ship, which was revelead to be a 30 kilometer (18.23 mile) vessel, mostly engine and radiator. Dubbed 'Titan Prime' by the media, Tau Ceti and news places over the known galaxy were bubbling with excitement as the object approached its apparent destination: Biesel.

After a few weeks, the object passed the Romanovich cloud and dispatched over twenty drones to key locations in Tau Ceti. Some of these locations included the NMSS Odin, the ASV Von Braun, ASV Arcadia, NSS Aurora, NSS Exodus, NMV Retaliation, and one to each planet. These drones were tiny compared to the ship; and even to fighters of the current generation, spanning about twenty meters long and seven tall. Although all drones dispatched to the location turned back immediately, one did not. The one that was headed for the NSS Aurora stayed, and in fact, contacted the station through use of the station's own intercommunication system; displaying a single, unintelligible message. After a period of three hours, the crew were dispatched to the probe and entered, finding a hollow vessel. In the middle was a single alien computer, and in a corner of a room were Vaurca eggs, presumably for use in early colonization.

Research crew of the NSS Aurora, including Dr. Phoebe Essel and team were able to interact with the computer, painstakingly finding ways to translate the cryptic language it was attempting to speak in, and after usage of a pAI, were able to teach the machine Tau Ceti Basic. After some conversation, the computer detached itself and was brought aboard the NSS Aurora for a psuedo-first contact situation. During this time, humanity learned that the probe was, in fact, a type BC Vaurca, and that it had been sent in order to document the indigenous species of the solar system. The computer tapped into the bluespace connection of the Artificial Intelligence of the station, uploaded core data files onto its hardware, and then departed.

From this point on, communications diplomatically occured. First radio contact was established with the Prime Minister of the Sol Alliance, Chief Executive Officer and Board of Directorates of NanoTrasen, and the Type CA of Titan Prime. It was learned that the vessel was sent approximately three thousand years ago on a colinization mission from the Spider Nebula, a dense cluster that none of the known species took any interest in. It was also learned that Titan Prime housed six million Vuarca on it, a staggering number for even a vessel of that massive size. Basic history was exchanged, and preperations occured for a bluespace gate to be built in the Spider Nebula, specifically the star system of Sedantis (Home of the species, and currently owned by the Zo'ra hive). This would connect the race with the other species of the galaxy for technological advancement, diplomacy, trade, and other boons of galactic community.

While the construction ships assembled, Titan Prime came closer to Biesel, but, before settling into a stable orbit around the planet, disaster struck. A lone destroyer accompanied by a wing of piggy-packing frigates, owned by the violently anti-alien, pro-human organization known as 'Terran Confederacy of Truth Crusaders,' or TFTC, managed to steer through the blockade put up by Sol Alliance military vessels. The ship and its compatriots fired four nuclear missiles, and managed to get around fourty mass driver shots into the ship before simultaneousley being apprehended by Titan Prime's weaponry, and Sol Military ships.

While the ship was prepared to take damage, it was not ready for a surprise attack. The attack crippled parts of the ship and killed over 40,000 Vaurca. An emergency distress call was sent towards NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance, and they acted immediately. Ferries, re-purposed cargo ships, and civilian shuttles evacuated 2 million inhabitants of Titan Prime, ferrying them mostly to New Gibson and Biesel, respectively. Evacuations are still undergoing, but damage to Titan Prime and chaos in the ship is making it more difficult. The Queens and type CB of the ship were rescued first, and are reportedly residing in stations housed by the Alliance or in the Provinces, and one Type CB resides within the Administration district of Mendell City, acting as diplomat.

Today, over a million and a half bound and unbound Vaurca live in 'Provinces,' a non-offensive term for the concentration camp-like slums they are forced into on New Gibson, and over 500,000 Vaurca live in similar 'Provinces' on Biesel. Officials are extremely worried about the cost of continued evacuation of Titan Prime, as the quick-breeding Vaurca could out-breed the already solidified civilian population in sixteen years.

Back in the Spider Nebula, however, the tides of war turn as knowledge from Titan Prime flows in from the Bluespace gate that was recently built. Since first contact, the Zo'ra hive has discovered Bluespace, and extremely advanced forms of weaponry, turning them against their own kind. Since a week after the bluespace gate was built, the Zo'ra hive is currently undergoing a war of conquest, and subjegating other hives as 'Client Hives' which work and build for the Zo'ra hive, enslaving hives, or utterly destroying the hives that do not surrender. Since the Lii'dra hive had been tormenting the Zo'ra hive for a longer period of time, the Zo'ra hive has hit Lii'dra extremely hard, taking down their number of colonies and Star Homes by 75%. The Lii'dra, who refuse to surrender, fight with the ferocity of knowing they will be destroyed if the Zo'ra are not stopped, and similar hives are beggining to ally under a new banner - the Banner of the Lii'dra; one of xenophobia and war.

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

[[File:ambassadorzor.jpg|thumb|right|Ambassador Va'zuilts Zo'ra, a Type CB 'Prince' ambassador for the Zo'ra Hive, currently living in an embassy in Mendell City, Biesel. It is adorned in Alliance gear for the sake of decency.]]

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two opposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

===Internal Organs===

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

===Limbs===

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 14 currently operational, 7 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 79.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 90% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 86% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 34
*Colonies operational: 23
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 2 currently operational, 4 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 14.2% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 5 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 37.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 20% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 7
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.8 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Information for Whitelisted Players=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Have a nifty bite function. Click on 'bite' in IC tab with an aggressive hold and you shred into them with mandibles.
*Can see in the dark, a little more than tajarans, so pretty well.
*Minor brute damage buff. X.5 addition.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage. x2 exactly.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge. Basically, no cross-departmental, Unbound or Bound alike.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Can't be any form of head, unless you count a Quartermaster as a head.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) If you're a drone, basically, everyone has free reign to abuse you.

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca

2015-03-24T00:36:07Z

Covert0ddity: /* Population Projection */

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in
multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on December 21, 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [http://aurorastation.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=28 here]

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===The Old Era===

The earliest records of Vaurca intelligence range from some time starting between 100,000 and 150,00 years ago. During this period, the first signs of actual documentation and history are recorded. According to the documents and few murals, nomadism claims all the primitive hives due to the harsh nature of the planet. Queens venture with their workers by their side, exhausting caves of one of the only food substances on the planet. This nomadism is caused because of the harsh nature of the moon, orbitting the intensely radioactive gas giant, Sedantis I. Despite the lack of resources, a structure is seen taken place during this time, as there is evidence of a culture of warfare being brought up. Some battles are seen depicted on cave murals, and a sense of honor is creaed around drones where, if victorious in battle, the enemy bodies must be consumed after their head is severed from the body with the victor's mandibles. All fighting was done using the claws on a drone's hand, with mandibles, or usage of the legs; although tools existed, it seemed using them in battle was a form of taboo. This may explain why most warriors of present day Vaurca use weaponry integrated into themselves; a way to fight more efficiently without breaking their code of honor.

===The Era of Change===

Approximately 60,000 years ago, the nomadism is recorded to have ceased, with the developement of large-scale farming of their primary fungus foodsource. This leads to a massive increase of drones, and some hives are recorded to nearly cover entire deserts. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. The old honor system begins to be discarded, as steel forges begin creating weapons like the ranged 'Spike Maul,' a primitive but effective cross-bow weapon that fires barbed spikes at a high velocity, and 'Claws of Steel,' metal encasings around the already formdiable claws of the drones. Similar developements that humans also discovered were made, such as simple spears and axe-like weapons.Some armors are created to counteract the effects of weapons like these. Some warriors were known as 'Yuis'uit'oi,' meaning 'The Riders,' as they would ride some of the indigenous species of their planet into battle. These animals included the massive beetles known coaqually as 'scarabs' to humans. Scarabs were driven to extinction due to their constant use in warfare and inability to breed fast enough to cope with their numbers falling. Many massive battles of several hundred thousand warriors are recorded from this era, and vast cities can still be discovered on Sedantis, remnants of these once massive hives.

Despite war being a massive part of the Era of Change, there appears to be massive improvements in governmental systems. According to ancient manuscripts, the Queen was reduced from being the center, ruling body of the hive to a simple breeding and advisory tool. Evidence of larger hives, such as the Zo'ra hive, are ruled by an elected Council, making decisions that effect the hive in total. This gives evidence that all, or nearly every, Vaurca was originally self aware and chose its own path in life.

===The Era of Augments===

The Era of Change ended approximately 20,000 years ago, when the technological and cultural growth reached a head after the developement of nuclear technology. While always prone to augmenting themselves, any attempts to completely genetically change a given drone, or even cybernetically enhance it ended in catastrophic failure that ended in death for the subject. This phenomenon occured for unknown reasons. Evidence suggests that the Vaurca either had a lucky break, or discovered a form of alien technology on their home-moon, that allowed them to suddenly completely engineer themselves cybernetically, but also on the genetic level, leaving what we know as Vaurca today; the three biological and cultural castes, and the 'paradise' of the Queen. Fundemantal changes began to strike across the entire race as the old ways were solidified into a modern work-horse fueled by the new power and efficiency of the workers and soldiers. Workers could work for ten times as long, five times as hard, and for 25% of the food and water originally needed, and soldiers could be much more terrifying and formidable in battle. While the augments offered many new freedoms, a certain physical system began to occur as a soldier who was given war augments, could not easibly be an efficient general purpose worker or artist, and left it trapped within the war caste indefinitely; which began to become a social problem, as most hatchlings were given augments that hardened them for a future role from birth, a role that most did not want. A Vaurca who had wanted to become a farmer would end up being a pilot, or part hazerdous waste disposal team.

This lack of social freedom paved way for the enigmatic development of the 'Paradise' we see today, where the conscioussness of a Vaurca is downloaded onto the virtual reality hub of the Queen, and from there can do anything, be anything, simulate anything or converse with fellow Vaurca from the nueral level; experiencing emotions on an entire new dynamic, something unrelateable by other sentient species. After the developement of the Paradise, all warriors and workers are drones, nothing more. Mindless (but effective, efficient, and cost-less) machines that work for the hive, while their minds explore the limitless reality offered within the Type CA.

===The Era of Stars===

Movement into the stars for the Vaurca was inevitable, despite the fear they have of the sky and its possible connotation of hell. Initial movement into the stars was recorded after the Vaurca discovery of fusion power, approximately 12,000 years ago, encompassing the entirety of human history itself. Starting with unmanned probes and progressing to massive STL colony ships, Vaurca space history has been something of a mystery, as no hive discovered FTL prior to human contact, apart from the War-Driven Lii'dra hive, but even they only discovered the secrets of warp technology conveniently close to human contact; only 40 years before. The reason that no hive discovered FTL technology is theorised that they did not observe, or had no chance to observe, some of hte natural phenomenon that other races learned FTL technology from; like observing a wormhole for warp, or testing for resonance cascade scenario such as Dr. Samantha Tigard and her Skrellian science team were attempting to study.

This non-developement of FTL led to many difficult situations for interstellar hives, such as the Zo'ra, K'lax, Lii'dra, and other major hives. Because they could not feasibly house entire fleets, they were led to the developement of 'Star Homes' or, 'Titan Primes,' as they are named by human observers. These Star Homes are massive constructs, and capable of multi-tasking many different functionalities. Star Homes are battleships, colony ships, mobile incubators, carriers, refineries, and production facilities all in their own. Being very modular, they can exchange parts and are easily repairable if damaged as long as there is an abundance of resources, such as an asteroid or planet. Star Homes carry smaller warships in case enemy hives come in contact with them, but due to sheer size and scale, are fully capable of combatting another Star Home or smaller vessels if forced to do so; but only as a last resort. Through the use of Star Homes, the Vaurca have been able to more or less populate the habitable systems of the Spider nebula, and through the use of FTL communicators have been able to hold weak governmental fabric amongst hives.

Prior to human contact, most hives were at war with each other, with the leaderboards reading the Lii'dra hive as winning, and the Zo'ra hive and its allies as losing. While tensions have never been fully settled, when presented with the drive technologically advanced Lii'dra, most hives united under the banner of the Zo'ra who were the most populous hive, and comparably advanced, but not to the Lii'dra. The Lii'dra inexpleicable developed Warp technology, and were using it to systematically destroy the Star Homes of Zo'ra and its allies, as well as their colonies.

===Contact with Humanity (The New Era)===

None of the species of the galaxy had any idea that the Vaurca existed until an eventful day in November, 2456 when the drive plume and heat signature of a massive ship burning its engine in order to slow down for an approach was detected near the Romanovich cloud, in Tau Ceti. While the galaxy was taken aback by this information, the Sol Alliance ( With NanoTrasen Assistance) acted immediately. A small scout vessel was dispatched to the ship, which was revelead to be a 30 kilometer (18.23 mile) vessel, mostly engine and radiator. Dubbed 'Titan Prime' by the media, Tau Ceti and news places over the known galaxy were bubbling with excitement as the object approached its apparent destination: Biesel.

After a few weeks, the object passed the Romanovich cloud and dispatched over twenty drones to key locations in Tau Ceti. Some of these locations included the NMSS Odin, the ASV Von Braun, ASV Arcadia, NSS Aurora, NSS Exodus, NMV Retaliation, and one to each planet. These drones were tiny compared to the ship; and even to fighters of the current generation, spanning about twenty meters long and seven tall. Although all drones dispatched to the location turned back immediately, one did not. The one that was headed for the NSS Aurora stayed, and in fact, contacted the station through use of the station's own intercommunication system; displaying a single, unintelligible message. After a period of three hours, the crew were dispatched to the probe and entered, finding a hollow vessel. In the middle was a single alien computer, and in a corner of a room were Vaurca eggs, presumably for use in early colonization.

Research crew of the NSS Aurora, including Dr. Phoebe Essel and team were able to interact with the computer, painstakingly finding ways to translate the cryptic language it was attempting to speak in, and after usage of a pAI, were able to teach the machine Tau Ceti Basic. After some conversation, the computer detached itself and was brought aboard the NSS Aurora for a psuedo-first contact situation. During this time, humanity learned that the probe was, in fact, a type BC Vaurca, and that it had been sent in order to document the indigenous species of the solar system. The computer tapped into the bluespace connection of the Artificial Intelligence of the station, uploaded core data files onto its hardware, and then departed.

From this point on, communications diplomatically occured. First radio contact was established with the Prime Minister of the Sol Alliance, Chief Executive Officer and Board of Directorates of NanoTrasen, and the Type CA of Titan Prime. It was learned that the vessel was sent approximately three thousand years ago on a colinization mission from the Spider Nebula, a dense cluster that none of the known species took any interest in. It was also learned that Titan Prime housed six million Vuarca on it, a staggering number for even a vessel of that massive size. Basic history was exchanged, and preperations occured for a bluespace gate to be built in the Spider Nebula, specifically the star system of Sedantis (Home of the species, and currently owned by the Zo'ra hive). This would connect the race with the other species of the galaxy for technological advancement, diplomacy, trade, and other boons of galactic community.

While the construction ships assembled, Titan Prime came closer to Biesel, but, before settling into a stable orbit around the planet, disaster struck. A lone destroyer accompanied by a wing of piggy-packing frigates, owned by the violently anti-alien, pro-human organization known as 'Terran Confederacy of Truth Crusaders,' or TFTC, managed to steer through the blockade put up by Sol Alliance military vessels. The ship and its compatriots fired four nuclear missiles, and managed to get around fourty mass driver shots into the ship before simultaneousley being apprehended by Titan Prime's weaponry, and Sol Military ships.

While the ship was prepared to take damage, it was not ready for a surprise attack. The attack crippled parts of the ship and killed over 40,000 Vaurca. An emergency distress call was sent towards NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance, and they acted immediately. Ferries, re-purposed cargo ships, and civilian shuttles evacuated 2 million inhabitants of Titan Prime, ferrying them mostly to New Gibson and Biesel, respectively. Evacuations are still undergoing, but damage to Titan Prime and chaos in the ship is making it more difficult. The Queens and type CB of the ship were rescued first, and are reportedly residing in stations housed by the Alliance or in the Provinces, and one Type CB resides within the Administration district of Mendell City, acting as diplomat.

Today, over a million and a half bound and unbound Vaurca live in 'Provinces,' a non-offensive term for the concentration camp-like slums they are forced into on New Gibson, and over 500,000 Vaurca live in similar 'Provinces' on Biesel. Officials are extremely worried about the cost of continued evacuation of Titan Prime, as the quick-breeding Vaurca could out-breed the already solidified civilian population in sixteen years.

Back in the Spider Nebula, however, the tides of war turn as knowledge from Titan Prime flows in from the Bluespace gate that was recently built. Since first contact, the Zo'ra hive has discovered Bluespace, and extremely advanced forms of weaponry, turning them against their own kind. Since a week after the bluespace gate was built, the Zo'ra hive is currently undergoing a war of conquest, and subjegating other hives as 'Client Hives' which work and build for the Zo'ra hive, enslaving hives, or utterly destroying the hives that do not surrender. Since the Lii'dra hive had been tormenting the Zo'ra hive for a longer period of time, the Zo'ra hive has hit Lii'dra extremely hard, taking down their number of colonies and Star Homes by 75%. The Lii'dra, who refuse to surrender, fight with the ferocity of knowing they will be destroyed if the Zo'ra are not stopped, and similar hives are beggining to ally under a new banner - the Banner of the Lii'dra; one of xenophobia and war.

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

[[File:ambassadorzor.jpg|thumb|right|Ambassador Va'zuilts Zo'ra, a Type CB 'Prince' ambassador for the Zo'ra Hive, currently living in an embassy in Mendell City, Biesel. It is adorned in Alliance gear for the sake of decency.]]

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two opposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

===Internal Organs===

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

===Limbs===

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 14 currently operational, 7 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 79.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 90% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 86% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 34
*Colonies operational: 23
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 2 currently operational, 4 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 14.2% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 7
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.8 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Information for Whitelisted Players=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Have a nifty bite function. Click on 'bite' in IC tab with an aggressive hold and you shred into them with mandibles.
*Can see in the dark, a little more than tajarans, so pretty well.
*Minor brute damage buff. X.5 addition.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage. x2 exactly.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge. Basically, no cross-departmental, Unbound or Bound alike.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Can't be any form of head, unless you count a Quartermaster as a head.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) If you're a drone, basically, everyone has free reign to abuse you.

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca

2015-03-24T00:35:07Z

Covert0ddity: /* Military Projection */

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in
multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on December 21, 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [http://aurorastation.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=28 here]

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===The Old Era===

The earliest records of Vaurca intelligence range from some time starting between 100,000 and 150,00 years ago. During this period, the first signs of actual documentation and history are recorded. According to the documents and few murals, nomadism claims all the primitive hives due to the harsh nature of the planet. Queens venture with their workers by their side, exhausting caves of one of the only food substances on the planet. This nomadism is caused because of the harsh nature of the moon, orbitting the intensely radioactive gas giant, Sedantis I. Despite the lack of resources, a structure is seen taken place during this time, as there is evidence of a culture of warfare being brought up. Some battles are seen depicted on cave murals, and a sense of honor is creaed around drones where, if victorious in battle, the enemy bodies must be consumed after their head is severed from the body with the victor's mandibles. All fighting was done using the claws on a drone's hand, with mandibles, or usage of the legs; although tools existed, it seemed using them in battle was a form of taboo. This may explain why most warriors of present day Vaurca use weaponry integrated into themselves; a way to fight more efficiently without breaking their code of honor.

===The Era of Change===

Approximately 60,000 years ago, the nomadism is recorded to have ceased, with the developement of large-scale farming of their primary fungus foodsource. This leads to a massive increase of drones, and some hives are recorded to nearly cover entire deserts. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. The old honor system begins to be discarded, as steel forges begin creating weapons like the ranged 'Spike Maul,' a primitive but effective cross-bow weapon that fires barbed spikes at a high velocity, and 'Claws of Steel,' metal encasings around the already formdiable claws of the drones. Similar developements that humans also discovered were made, such as simple spears and axe-like weapons.Some armors are created to counteract the effects of weapons like these. Some warriors were known as 'Yuis'uit'oi,' meaning 'The Riders,' as they would ride some of the indigenous species of their planet into battle. These animals included the massive beetles known coaqually as 'scarabs' to humans. Scarabs were driven to extinction due to their constant use in warfare and inability to breed fast enough to cope with their numbers falling. Many massive battles of several hundred thousand warriors are recorded from this era, and vast cities can still be discovered on Sedantis, remnants of these once massive hives.

Despite war being a massive part of the Era of Change, there appears to be massive improvements in governmental systems. According to ancient manuscripts, the Queen was reduced from being the center, ruling body of the hive to a simple breeding and advisory tool. Evidence of larger hives, such as the Zo'ra hive, are ruled by an elected Council, making decisions that effect the hive in total. This gives evidence that all, or nearly every, Vaurca was originally self aware and chose its own path in life.

===The Era of Augments===

The Era of Change ended approximately 20,000 years ago, when the technological and cultural growth reached a head after the developement of nuclear technology. While always prone to augmenting themselves, any attempts to completely genetically change a given drone, or even cybernetically enhance it ended in catastrophic failure that ended in death for the subject. This phenomenon occured for unknown reasons. Evidence suggests that the Vaurca either had a lucky break, or discovered a form of alien technology on their home-moon, that allowed them to suddenly completely engineer themselves cybernetically, but also on the genetic level, leaving what we know as Vaurca today; the three biological and cultural castes, and the 'paradise' of the Queen. Fundemantal changes began to strike across the entire race as the old ways were solidified into a modern work-horse fueled by the new power and efficiency of the workers and soldiers. Workers could work for ten times as long, five times as hard, and for 25% of the food and water originally needed, and soldiers could be much more terrifying and formidable in battle. While the augments offered many new freedoms, a certain physical system began to occur as a soldier who was given war augments, could not easibly be an efficient general purpose worker or artist, and left it trapped within the war caste indefinitely; which began to become a social problem, as most hatchlings were given augments that hardened them for a future role from birth, a role that most did not want. A Vaurca who had wanted to become a farmer would end up being a pilot, or part hazerdous waste disposal team.

This lack of social freedom paved way for the enigmatic development of the 'Paradise' we see today, where the conscioussness of a Vaurca is downloaded onto the virtual reality hub of the Queen, and from there can do anything, be anything, simulate anything or converse with fellow Vaurca from the nueral level; experiencing emotions on an entire new dynamic, something unrelateable by other sentient species. After the developement of the Paradise, all warriors and workers are drones, nothing more. Mindless (but effective, efficient, and cost-less) machines that work for the hive, while their minds explore the limitless reality offered within the Type CA.

===The Era of Stars===

Movement into the stars for the Vaurca was inevitable, despite the fear they have of the sky and its possible connotation of hell. Initial movement into the stars was recorded after the Vaurca discovery of fusion power, approximately 12,000 years ago, encompassing the entirety of human history itself. Starting with unmanned probes and progressing to massive STL colony ships, Vaurca space history has been something of a mystery, as no hive discovered FTL prior to human contact, apart from the War-Driven Lii'dra hive, but even they only discovered the secrets of warp technology conveniently close to human contact; only 40 years before. The reason that no hive discovered FTL technology is theorised that they did not observe, or had no chance to observe, some of hte natural phenomenon that other races learned FTL technology from; like observing a wormhole for warp, or testing for resonance cascade scenario such as Dr. Samantha Tigard and her Skrellian science team were attempting to study.

This non-developement of FTL led to many difficult situations for interstellar hives, such as the Zo'ra, K'lax, Lii'dra, and other major hives. Because they could not feasibly house entire fleets, they were led to the developement of 'Star Homes' or, 'Titan Primes,' as they are named by human observers. These Star Homes are massive constructs, and capable of multi-tasking many different functionalities. Star Homes are battleships, colony ships, mobile incubators, carriers, refineries, and production facilities all in their own. Being very modular, they can exchange parts and are easily repairable if damaged as long as there is an abundance of resources, such as an asteroid or planet. Star Homes carry smaller warships in case enemy hives come in contact with them, but due to sheer size and scale, are fully capable of combatting another Star Home or smaller vessels if forced to do so; but only as a last resort. Through the use of Star Homes, the Vaurca have been able to more or less populate the habitable systems of the Spider nebula, and through the use of FTL communicators have been able to hold weak governmental fabric amongst hives.

Prior to human contact, most hives were at war with each other, with the leaderboards reading the Lii'dra hive as winning, and the Zo'ra hive and its allies as losing. While tensions have never been fully settled, when presented with the drive technologically advanced Lii'dra, most hives united under the banner of the Zo'ra who were the most populous hive, and comparably advanced, but not to the Lii'dra. The Lii'dra inexpleicable developed Warp technology, and were using it to systematically destroy the Star Homes of Zo'ra and its allies, as well as their colonies.

===Contact with Humanity (The New Era)===

None of the species of the galaxy had any idea that the Vaurca existed until an eventful day in November, 2456 when the drive plume and heat signature of a massive ship burning its engine in order to slow down for an approach was detected near the Romanovich cloud, in Tau Ceti. While the galaxy was taken aback by this information, the Sol Alliance ( With NanoTrasen Assistance) acted immediately. A small scout vessel was dispatched to the ship, which was revelead to be a 30 kilometer (18.23 mile) vessel, mostly engine and radiator. Dubbed 'Titan Prime' by the media, Tau Ceti and news places over the known galaxy were bubbling with excitement as the object approached its apparent destination: Biesel.

After a few weeks, the object passed the Romanovich cloud and dispatched over twenty drones to key locations in Tau Ceti. Some of these locations included the NMSS Odin, the ASV Von Braun, ASV Arcadia, NSS Aurora, NSS Exodus, NMV Retaliation, and one to each planet. These drones were tiny compared to the ship; and even to fighters of the current generation, spanning about twenty meters long and seven tall. Although all drones dispatched to the location turned back immediately, one did not. The one that was headed for the NSS Aurora stayed, and in fact, contacted the station through use of the station's own intercommunication system; displaying a single, unintelligible message. After a period of three hours, the crew were dispatched to the probe and entered, finding a hollow vessel. In the middle was a single alien computer, and in a corner of a room were Vaurca eggs, presumably for use in early colonization.

Research crew of the NSS Aurora, including Dr. Phoebe Essel and team were able to interact with the computer, painstakingly finding ways to translate the cryptic language it was attempting to speak in, and after usage of a pAI, were able to teach the machine Tau Ceti Basic. After some conversation, the computer detached itself and was brought aboard the NSS Aurora for a psuedo-first contact situation. During this time, humanity learned that the probe was, in fact, a type BC Vaurca, and that it had been sent in order to document the indigenous species of the solar system. The computer tapped into the bluespace connection of the Artificial Intelligence of the station, uploaded core data files onto its hardware, and then departed.

From this point on, communications diplomatically occured. First radio contact was established with the Prime Minister of the Sol Alliance, Chief Executive Officer and Board of Directorates of NanoTrasen, and the Type CA of Titan Prime. It was learned that the vessel was sent approximately three thousand years ago on a colinization mission from the Spider Nebula, a dense cluster that none of the known species took any interest in. It was also learned that Titan Prime housed six million Vuarca on it, a staggering number for even a vessel of that massive size. Basic history was exchanged, and preperations occured for a bluespace gate to be built in the Spider Nebula, specifically the star system of Sedantis (Home of the species, and currently owned by the Zo'ra hive). This would connect the race with the other species of the galaxy for technological advancement, diplomacy, trade, and other boons of galactic community.

While the construction ships assembled, Titan Prime came closer to Biesel, but, before settling into a stable orbit around the planet, disaster struck. A lone destroyer accompanied by a wing of piggy-packing frigates, owned by the violently anti-alien, pro-human organization known as 'Terran Confederacy of Truth Crusaders,' or TFTC, managed to steer through the blockade put up by Sol Alliance military vessels. The ship and its compatriots fired four nuclear missiles, and managed to get around fourty mass driver shots into the ship before simultaneousley being apprehended by Titan Prime's weaponry, and Sol Military ships.

While the ship was prepared to take damage, it was not ready for a surprise attack. The attack crippled parts of the ship and killed over 40,000 Vaurca. An emergency distress call was sent towards NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance, and they acted immediately. Ferries, re-purposed cargo ships, and civilian shuttles evacuated 2 million inhabitants of Titan Prime, ferrying them mostly to New Gibson and Biesel, respectively. Evacuations are still undergoing, but damage to Titan Prime and chaos in the ship is making it more difficult. The Queens and type CB of the ship were rescued first, and are reportedly residing in stations housed by the Alliance or in the Provinces, and one Type CB resides within the Administration district of Mendell City, acting as diplomat.

Today, over a million and a half bound and unbound Vaurca live in 'Provinces,' a non-offensive term for the concentration camp-like slums they are forced into on New Gibson, and over 500,000 Vaurca live in similar 'Provinces' on Biesel. Officials are extremely worried about the cost of continued evacuation of Titan Prime, as the quick-breeding Vaurca could out-breed the already solidified civilian population in sixteen years.

Back in the Spider Nebula, however, the tides of war turn as knowledge from Titan Prime flows in from the Bluespace gate that was recently built. Since first contact, the Zo'ra hive has discovered Bluespace, and extremely advanced forms of weaponry, turning them against their own kind. Since a week after the bluespace gate was built, the Zo'ra hive is currently undergoing a war of conquest, and subjegating other hives as 'Client Hives' which work and build for the Zo'ra hive, enslaving hives, or utterly destroying the hives that do not surrender. Since the Lii'dra hive had been tormenting the Zo'ra hive for a longer period of time, the Zo'ra hive has hit Lii'dra extremely hard, taking down their number of colonies and Star Homes by 75%. The Lii'dra, who refuse to surrender, fight with the ferocity of knowing they will be destroyed if the Zo'ra are not stopped, and similar hives are beggining to ally under a new banner - the Banner of the Lii'dra; one of xenophobia and war.

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

[[File:ambassadorzor.jpg|thumb|right|Ambassador Va'zuilts Zo'ra, a Type CB 'Prince' ambassador for the Zo'ra Hive, currently living in an embassy in Mendell City, Biesel. It is adorned in Alliance gear for the sake of decency.]]

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two opposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

===Internal Organs===

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

===Limbs===

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 14 currently operational, 7 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 79.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 90% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 86% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 2 currently operational, 4 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 14.2% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 7
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.8 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Information for Whitelisted Players=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Have a nifty bite function. Click on 'bite' in IC tab with an aggressive hold and you shred into them with mandibles.
*Can see in the dark, a little more than tajarans, so pretty well.
*Minor brute damage buff. X.5 addition.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage. x2 exactly.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge. Basically, no cross-departmental, Unbound or Bound alike.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Can't be any form of head, unless you count a Quartermaster as a head.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) If you're a drone, basically, everyone has free reign to abuse you.

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca

2015-03-24T00:33:20Z

Covert0ddity: /* Military Projection */

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in
multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on December 21, 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [http://aurorastation.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=28 here]

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===The Old Era===

The earliest records of Vaurca intelligence range from some time starting between 100,000 and 150,00 years ago. During this period, the first signs of actual documentation and history are recorded. According to the documents and few murals, nomadism claims all the primitive hives due to the harsh nature of the planet. Queens venture with their workers by their side, exhausting caves of one of the only food substances on the planet. This nomadism is caused because of the harsh nature of the moon, orbitting the intensely radioactive gas giant, Sedantis I. Despite the lack of resources, a structure is seen taken place during this time, as there is evidence of a culture of warfare being brought up. Some battles are seen depicted on cave murals, and a sense of honor is creaed around drones where, if victorious in battle, the enemy bodies must be consumed after their head is severed from the body with the victor's mandibles. All fighting was done using the claws on a drone's hand, with mandibles, or usage of the legs; although tools existed, it seemed using them in battle was a form of taboo. This may explain why most warriors of present day Vaurca use weaponry integrated into themselves; a way to fight more efficiently without breaking their code of honor.

===The Era of Change===

Approximately 60,000 years ago, the nomadism is recorded to have ceased, with the developement of large-scale farming of their primary fungus foodsource. This leads to a massive increase of drones, and some hives are recorded to nearly cover entire deserts. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. The old honor system begins to be discarded, as steel forges begin creating weapons like the ranged 'Spike Maul,' a primitive but effective cross-bow weapon that fires barbed spikes at a high velocity, and 'Claws of Steel,' metal encasings around the already formdiable claws of the drones. Similar developements that humans also discovered were made, such as simple spears and axe-like weapons.Some armors are created to counteract the effects of weapons like these. Some warriors were known as 'Yuis'uit'oi,' meaning 'The Riders,' as they would ride some of the indigenous species of their planet into battle. These animals included the massive beetles known coaqually as 'scarabs' to humans. Scarabs were driven to extinction due to their constant use in warfare and inability to breed fast enough to cope with their numbers falling. Many massive battles of several hundred thousand warriors are recorded from this era, and vast cities can still be discovered on Sedantis, remnants of these once massive hives.

Despite war being a massive part of the Era of Change, there appears to be massive improvements in governmental systems. According to ancient manuscripts, the Queen was reduced from being the center, ruling body of the hive to a simple breeding and advisory tool. Evidence of larger hives, such as the Zo'ra hive, are ruled by an elected Council, making decisions that effect the hive in total. This gives evidence that all, or nearly every, Vaurca was originally self aware and chose its own path in life.

===The Era of Augments===

The Era of Change ended approximately 20,000 years ago, when the technological and cultural growth reached a head after the developement of nuclear technology. While always prone to augmenting themselves, any attempts to completely genetically change a given drone, or even cybernetically enhance it ended in catastrophic failure that ended in death for the subject. This phenomenon occured for unknown reasons. Evidence suggests that the Vaurca either had a lucky break, or discovered a form of alien technology on their home-moon, that allowed them to suddenly completely engineer themselves cybernetically, but also on the genetic level, leaving what we know as Vaurca today; the three biological and cultural castes, and the 'paradise' of the Queen. Fundemantal changes began to strike across the entire race as the old ways were solidified into a modern work-horse fueled by the new power and efficiency of the workers and soldiers. Workers could work for ten times as long, five times as hard, and for 25% of the food and water originally needed, and soldiers could be much more terrifying and formidable in battle. While the augments offered many new freedoms, a certain physical system began to occur as a soldier who was given war augments, could not easibly be an efficient general purpose worker or artist, and left it trapped within the war caste indefinitely; which began to become a social problem, as most hatchlings were given augments that hardened them for a future role from birth, a role that most did not want. A Vaurca who had wanted to become a farmer would end up being a pilot, or part hazerdous waste disposal team.

This lack of social freedom paved way for the enigmatic development of the 'Paradise' we see today, where the conscioussness of a Vaurca is downloaded onto the virtual reality hub of the Queen, and from there can do anything, be anything, simulate anything or converse with fellow Vaurca from the nueral level; experiencing emotions on an entire new dynamic, something unrelateable by other sentient species. After the developement of the Paradise, all warriors and workers are drones, nothing more. Mindless (but effective, efficient, and cost-less) machines that work for the hive, while their minds explore the limitless reality offered within the Type CA.

===The Era of Stars===

Movement into the stars for the Vaurca was inevitable, despite the fear they have of the sky and its possible connotation of hell. Initial movement into the stars was recorded after the Vaurca discovery of fusion power, approximately 12,000 years ago, encompassing the entirety of human history itself. Starting with unmanned probes and progressing to massive STL colony ships, Vaurca space history has been something of a mystery, as no hive discovered FTL prior to human contact, apart from the War-Driven Lii'dra hive, but even they only discovered the secrets of warp technology conveniently close to human contact; only 40 years before. The reason that no hive discovered FTL technology is theorised that they did not observe, or had no chance to observe, some of hte natural phenomenon that other races learned FTL technology from; like observing a wormhole for warp, or testing for resonance cascade scenario such as Dr. Samantha Tigard and her Skrellian science team were attempting to study.

This non-developement of FTL led to many difficult situations for interstellar hives, such as the Zo'ra, K'lax, Lii'dra, and other major hives. Because they could not feasibly house entire fleets, they were led to the developement of 'Star Homes' or, 'Titan Primes,' as they are named by human observers. These Star Homes are massive constructs, and capable of multi-tasking many different functionalities. Star Homes are battleships, colony ships, mobile incubators, carriers, refineries, and production facilities all in their own. Being very modular, they can exchange parts and are easily repairable if damaged as long as there is an abundance of resources, such as an asteroid or planet. Star Homes carry smaller warships in case enemy hives come in contact with them, but due to sheer size and scale, are fully capable of combatting another Star Home or smaller vessels if forced to do so; but only as a last resort. Through the use of Star Homes, the Vaurca have been able to more or less populate the habitable systems of the Spider nebula, and through the use of FTL communicators have been able to hold weak governmental fabric amongst hives.

Prior to human contact, most hives were at war with each other, with the leaderboards reading the Lii'dra hive as winning, and the Zo'ra hive and its allies as losing. While tensions have never been fully settled, when presented with the drive technologically advanced Lii'dra, most hives united under the banner of the Zo'ra who were the most populous hive, and comparably advanced, but not to the Lii'dra. The Lii'dra inexpleicable developed Warp technology, and were using it to systematically destroy the Star Homes of Zo'ra and its allies, as well as their colonies.

===Contact with Humanity (The New Era)===

None of the species of the galaxy had any idea that the Vaurca existed until an eventful day in November, 2456 when the drive plume and heat signature of a massive ship burning its engine in order to slow down for an approach was detected near the Romanovich cloud, in Tau Ceti. While the galaxy was taken aback by this information, the Sol Alliance ( With NanoTrasen Assistance) acted immediately. A small scout vessel was dispatched to the ship, which was revelead to be a 30 kilometer (18.23 mile) vessel, mostly engine and radiator. Dubbed 'Titan Prime' by the media, Tau Ceti and news places over the known galaxy were bubbling with excitement as the object approached its apparent destination: Biesel.

After a few weeks, the object passed the Romanovich cloud and dispatched over twenty drones to key locations in Tau Ceti. Some of these locations included the NMSS Odin, the ASV Von Braun, ASV Arcadia, NSS Aurora, NSS Exodus, NMV Retaliation, and one to each planet. These drones were tiny compared to the ship; and even to fighters of the current generation, spanning about twenty meters long and seven tall. Although all drones dispatched to the location turned back immediately, one did not. The one that was headed for the NSS Aurora stayed, and in fact, contacted the station through use of the station's own intercommunication system; displaying a single, unintelligible message. After a period of three hours, the crew were dispatched to the probe and entered, finding a hollow vessel. In the middle was a single alien computer, and in a corner of a room were Vaurca eggs, presumably for use in early colonization.

Research crew of the NSS Aurora, including Dr. Phoebe Essel and team were able to interact with the computer, painstakingly finding ways to translate the cryptic language it was attempting to speak in, and after usage of a pAI, were able to teach the machine Tau Ceti Basic. After some conversation, the computer detached itself and was brought aboard the NSS Aurora for a psuedo-first contact situation. During this time, humanity learned that the probe was, in fact, a type BC Vaurca, and that it had been sent in order to document the indigenous species of the solar system. The computer tapped into the bluespace connection of the Artificial Intelligence of the station, uploaded core data files onto its hardware, and then departed.

From this point on, communications diplomatically occured. First radio contact was established with the Prime Minister of the Sol Alliance, Chief Executive Officer and Board of Directorates of NanoTrasen, and the Type CA of Titan Prime. It was learned that the vessel was sent approximately three thousand years ago on a colinization mission from the Spider Nebula, a dense cluster that none of the known species took any interest in. It was also learned that Titan Prime housed six million Vuarca on it, a staggering number for even a vessel of that massive size. Basic history was exchanged, and preperations occured for a bluespace gate to be built in the Spider Nebula, specifically the star system of Sedantis (Home of the species, and currently owned by the Zo'ra hive). This would connect the race with the other species of the galaxy for technological advancement, diplomacy, trade, and other boons of galactic community.

While the construction ships assembled, Titan Prime came closer to Biesel, but, before settling into a stable orbit around the planet, disaster struck. A lone destroyer accompanied by a wing of piggy-packing frigates, owned by the violently anti-alien, pro-human organization known as 'Terran Confederacy of Truth Crusaders,' or TFTC, managed to steer through the blockade put up by Sol Alliance military vessels. The ship and its compatriots fired four nuclear missiles, and managed to get around fourty mass driver shots into the ship before simultaneousley being apprehended by Titan Prime's weaponry, and Sol Military ships.

While the ship was prepared to take damage, it was not ready for a surprise attack. The attack crippled parts of the ship and killed over 40,000 Vaurca. An emergency distress call was sent towards NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance, and they acted immediately. Ferries, re-purposed cargo ships, and civilian shuttles evacuated 2 million inhabitants of Titan Prime, ferrying them mostly to New Gibson and Biesel, respectively. Evacuations are still undergoing, but damage to Titan Prime and chaos in the ship is making it more difficult. The Queens and type CB of the ship were rescued first, and are reportedly residing in stations housed by the Alliance or in the Provinces, and one Type CB resides within the Administration district of Mendell City, acting as diplomat.

Today, over a million and a half bound and unbound Vaurca live in 'Provinces,' a non-offensive term for the concentration camp-like slums they are forced into on New Gibson, and over 500,000 Vaurca live in similar 'Provinces' on Biesel. Officials are extremely worried about the cost of continued evacuation of Titan Prime, as the quick-breeding Vaurca could out-breed the already solidified civilian population in sixteen years.

Back in the Spider Nebula, however, the tides of war turn as knowledge from Titan Prime flows in from the Bluespace gate that was recently built. Since first contact, the Zo'ra hive has discovered Bluespace, and extremely advanced forms of weaponry, turning them against their own kind. Since a week after the bluespace gate was built, the Zo'ra hive is currently undergoing a war of conquest, and subjegating other hives as 'Client Hives' which work and build for the Zo'ra hive, enslaving hives, or utterly destroying the hives that do not surrender. Since the Lii'dra hive had been tormenting the Zo'ra hive for a longer period of time, the Zo'ra hive has hit Lii'dra extremely hard, taking down their number of colonies and Star Homes by 75%. The Lii'dra, who refuse to surrender, fight with the ferocity of knowing they will be destroyed if the Zo'ra are not stopped, and similar hives are beggining to ally under a new banner - the Banner of the Lii'dra; one of xenophobia and war.

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

[[File:ambassadorzor.jpg|thumb|right|Ambassador Va'zuilts Zo'ra, a Type CB 'Prince' ambassador for the Zo'ra Hive, currently living in an embassy in Mendell City, Biesel. It is adorned in Alliance gear for the sake of decency.]]

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two opposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

===Internal Organs===

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

===Limbs===

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 14 currently operational, 7 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 79.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 90% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 86% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 2 currently operational, 4 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 14.2% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 7
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.8 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Information for Whitelisted Players=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Have a nifty bite function. Click on 'bite' in IC tab with an aggressive hold and you shred into them with mandibles.
*Can see in the dark, a little more than tajarans, so pretty well.
*Minor brute damage buff. X.5 addition.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage. x2 exactly.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge. Basically, no cross-departmental, Unbound or Bound alike.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Can't be any form of head, unless you count a Quartermaster as a head.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) If you're a drone, basically, everyone has free reign to abuse you.

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca

2015-03-24T00:31:55Z

Covert0ddity: /* Military Projection */

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in
multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on December 21, 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [http://aurorastation.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=28 here]

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===The Old Era===

The earliest records of Vaurca intelligence range from some time starting between 100,000 and 150,00 years ago. During this period, the first signs of actual documentation and history are recorded. According to the documents and few murals, nomadism claims all the primitive hives due to the harsh nature of the planet. Queens venture with their workers by their side, exhausting caves of one of the only food substances on the planet. This nomadism is caused because of the harsh nature of the moon, orbitting the intensely radioactive gas giant, Sedantis I. Despite the lack of resources, a structure is seen taken place during this time, as there is evidence of a culture of warfare being brought up. Some battles are seen depicted on cave murals, and a sense of honor is creaed around drones where, if victorious in battle, the enemy bodies must be consumed after their head is severed from the body with the victor's mandibles. All fighting was done using the claws on a drone's hand, with mandibles, or usage of the legs; although tools existed, it seemed using them in battle was a form of taboo. This may explain why most warriors of present day Vaurca use weaponry integrated into themselves; a way to fight more efficiently without breaking their code of honor.

===The Era of Change===

Approximately 60,000 years ago, the nomadism is recorded to have ceased, with the developement of large-scale farming of their primary fungus foodsource. This leads to a massive increase of drones, and some hives are recorded to nearly cover entire deserts. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. The old honor system begins to be discarded, as steel forges begin creating weapons like the ranged 'Spike Maul,' a primitive but effective cross-bow weapon that fires barbed spikes at a high velocity, and 'Claws of Steel,' metal encasings around the already formdiable claws of the drones. Similar developements that humans also discovered were made, such as simple spears and axe-like weapons.Some armors are created to counteract the effects of weapons like these. Some warriors were known as 'Yuis'uit'oi,' meaning 'The Riders,' as they would ride some of the indigenous species of their planet into battle. These animals included the massive beetles known coaqually as 'scarabs' to humans. Scarabs were driven to extinction due to their constant use in warfare and inability to breed fast enough to cope with their numbers falling. Many massive battles of several hundred thousand warriors are recorded from this era, and vast cities can still be discovered on Sedantis, remnants of these once massive hives.

Despite war being a massive part of the Era of Change, there appears to be massive improvements in governmental systems. According to ancient manuscripts, the Queen was reduced from being the center, ruling body of the hive to a simple breeding and advisory tool. Evidence of larger hives, such as the Zo'ra hive, are ruled by an elected Council, making decisions that effect the hive in total. This gives evidence that all, or nearly every, Vaurca was originally self aware and chose its own path in life.

===The Era of Augments===

The Era of Change ended approximately 20,000 years ago, when the technological and cultural growth reached a head after the developement of nuclear technology. While always prone to augmenting themselves, any attempts to completely genetically change a given drone, or even cybernetically enhance it ended in catastrophic failure that ended in death for the subject. This phenomenon occured for unknown reasons. Evidence suggests that the Vaurca either had a lucky break, or discovered a form of alien technology on their home-moon, that allowed them to suddenly completely engineer themselves cybernetically, but also on the genetic level, leaving what we know as Vaurca today; the three biological and cultural castes, and the 'paradise' of the Queen. Fundemantal changes began to strike across the entire race as the old ways were solidified into a modern work-horse fueled by the new power and efficiency of the workers and soldiers. Workers could work for ten times as long, five times as hard, and for 25% of the food and water originally needed, and soldiers could be much more terrifying and formidable in battle. While the augments offered many new freedoms, a certain physical system began to occur as a soldier who was given war augments, could not easibly be an efficient general purpose worker or artist, and left it trapped within the war caste indefinitely; which began to become a social problem, as most hatchlings were given augments that hardened them for a future role from birth, a role that most did not want. A Vaurca who had wanted to become a farmer would end up being a pilot, or part hazerdous waste disposal team.

This lack of social freedom paved way for the enigmatic development of the 'Paradise' we see today, where the conscioussness of a Vaurca is downloaded onto the virtual reality hub of the Queen, and from there can do anything, be anything, simulate anything or converse with fellow Vaurca from the nueral level; experiencing emotions on an entire new dynamic, something unrelateable by other sentient species. After the developement of the Paradise, all warriors and workers are drones, nothing more. Mindless (but effective, efficient, and cost-less) machines that work for the hive, while their minds explore the limitless reality offered within the Type CA.

===The Era of Stars===

Movement into the stars for the Vaurca was inevitable, despite the fear they have of the sky and its possible connotation of hell. Initial movement into the stars was recorded after the Vaurca discovery of fusion power, approximately 12,000 years ago, encompassing the entirety of human history itself. Starting with unmanned probes and progressing to massive STL colony ships, Vaurca space history has been something of a mystery, as no hive discovered FTL prior to human contact, apart from the War-Driven Lii'dra hive, but even they only discovered the secrets of warp technology conveniently close to human contact; only 40 years before. The reason that no hive discovered FTL technology is theorised that they did not observe, or had no chance to observe, some of hte natural phenomenon that other races learned FTL technology from; like observing a wormhole for warp, or testing for resonance cascade scenario such as Dr. Samantha Tigard and her Skrellian science team were attempting to study.

This non-developement of FTL led to many difficult situations for interstellar hives, such as the Zo'ra, K'lax, Lii'dra, and other major hives. Because they could not feasibly house entire fleets, they were led to the developement of 'Star Homes' or, 'Titan Primes,' as they are named by human observers. These Star Homes are massive constructs, and capable of multi-tasking many different functionalities. Star Homes are battleships, colony ships, mobile incubators, carriers, refineries, and production facilities all in their own. Being very modular, they can exchange parts and are easily repairable if damaged as long as there is an abundance of resources, such as an asteroid or planet. Star Homes carry smaller warships in case enemy hives come in contact with them, but due to sheer size and scale, are fully capable of combatting another Star Home or smaller vessels if forced to do so; but only as a last resort. Through the use of Star Homes, the Vaurca have been able to more or less populate the habitable systems of the Spider nebula, and through the use of FTL communicators have been able to hold weak governmental fabric amongst hives.

Prior to human contact, most hives were at war with each other, with the leaderboards reading the Lii'dra hive as winning, and the Zo'ra hive and its allies as losing. While tensions have never been fully settled, when presented with the drive technologically advanced Lii'dra, most hives united under the banner of the Zo'ra who were the most populous hive, and comparably advanced, but not to the Lii'dra. The Lii'dra inexpleicable developed Warp technology, and were using it to systematically destroy the Star Homes of Zo'ra and its allies, as well as their colonies.

===Contact with Humanity (The New Era)===

None of the species of the galaxy had any idea that the Vaurca existed until an eventful day in November, 2456 when the drive plume and heat signature of a massive ship burning its engine in order to slow down for an approach was detected near the Romanovich cloud, in Tau Ceti. While the galaxy was taken aback by this information, the Sol Alliance ( With NanoTrasen Assistance) acted immediately. A small scout vessel was dispatched to the ship, which was revelead to be a 30 kilometer (18.23 mile) vessel, mostly engine and radiator. Dubbed 'Titan Prime' by the media, Tau Ceti and news places over the known galaxy were bubbling with excitement as the object approached its apparent destination: Biesel.

After a few weeks, the object passed the Romanovich cloud and dispatched over twenty drones to key locations in Tau Ceti. Some of these locations included the NMSS Odin, the ASV Von Braun, ASV Arcadia, NSS Aurora, NSS Exodus, NMV Retaliation, and one to each planet. These drones were tiny compared to the ship; and even to fighters of the current generation, spanning about twenty meters long and seven tall. Although all drones dispatched to the location turned back immediately, one did not. The one that was headed for the NSS Aurora stayed, and in fact, contacted the station through use of the station's own intercommunication system; displaying a single, unintelligible message. After a period of three hours, the crew were dispatched to the probe and entered, finding a hollow vessel. In the middle was a single alien computer, and in a corner of a room were Vaurca eggs, presumably for use in early colonization.

Research crew of the NSS Aurora, including Dr. Phoebe Essel and team were able to interact with the computer, painstakingly finding ways to translate the cryptic language it was attempting to speak in, and after usage of a pAI, were able to teach the machine Tau Ceti Basic. After some conversation, the computer detached itself and was brought aboard the NSS Aurora for a psuedo-first contact situation. During this time, humanity learned that the probe was, in fact, a type BC Vaurca, and that it had been sent in order to document the indigenous species of the solar system. The computer tapped into the bluespace connection of the Artificial Intelligence of the station, uploaded core data files onto its hardware, and then departed.

From this point on, communications diplomatically occured. First radio contact was established with the Prime Minister of the Sol Alliance, Chief Executive Officer and Board of Directorates of NanoTrasen, and the Type CA of Titan Prime. It was learned that the vessel was sent approximately three thousand years ago on a colinization mission from the Spider Nebula, a dense cluster that none of the known species took any interest in. It was also learned that Titan Prime housed six million Vuarca on it, a staggering number for even a vessel of that massive size. Basic history was exchanged, and preperations occured for a bluespace gate to be built in the Spider Nebula, specifically the star system of Sedantis (Home of the species, and currently owned by the Zo'ra hive). This would connect the race with the other species of the galaxy for technological advancement, diplomacy, trade, and other boons of galactic community.

While the construction ships assembled, Titan Prime came closer to Biesel, but, before settling into a stable orbit around the planet, disaster struck. A lone destroyer accompanied by a wing of piggy-packing frigates, owned by the violently anti-alien, pro-human organization known as 'Terran Confederacy of Truth Crusaders,' or TFTC, managed to steer through the blockade put up by Sol Alliance military vessels. The ship and its compatriots fired four nuclear missiles, and managed to get around fourty mass driver shots into the ship before simultaneousley being apprehended by Titan Prime's weaponry, and Sol Military ships.

While the ship was prepared to take damage, it was not ready for a surprise attack. The attack crippled parts of the ship and killed over 40,000 Vaurca. An emergency distress call was sent towards NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance, and they acted immediately. Ferries, re-purposed cargo ships, and civilian shuttles evacuated 2 million inhabitants of Titan Prime, ferrying them mostly to New Gibson and Biesel, respectively. Evacuations are still undergoing, but damage to Titan Prime and chaos in the ship is making it more difficult. The Queens and type CB of the ship were rescued first, and are reportedly residing in stations housed by the Alliance or in the Provinces, and one Type CB resides within the Administration district of Mendell City, acting as diplomat.

Today, over a million and a half bound and unbound Vaurca live in 'Provinces,' a non-offensive term for the concentration camp-like slums they are forced into on New Gibson, and over 500,000 Vaurca live in similar 'Provinces' on Biesel. Officials are extremely worried about the cost of continued evacuation of Titan Prime, as the quick-breeding Vaurca could out-breed the already solidified civilian population in sixteen years.

Back in the Spider Nebula, however, the tides of war turn as knowledge from Titan Prime flows in from the Bluespace gate that was recently built. Since first contact, the Zo'ra hive has discovered Bluespace, and extremely advanced forms of weaponry, turning them against their own kind. Since a week after the bluespace gate was built, the Zo'ra hive is currently undergoing a war of conquest, and subjegating other hives as 'Client Hives' which work and build for the Zo'ra hive, enslaving hives, or utterly destroying the hives that do not surrender. Since the Lii'dra hive had been tormenting the Zo'ra hive for a longer period of time, the Zo'ra hive has hit Lii'dra extremely hard, taking down their number of colonies and Star Homes by 75%. The Lii'dra, who refuse to surrender, fight with the ferocity of knowing they will be destroyed if the Zo'ra are not stopped, and similar hives are beggining to ally under a new banner - the Banner of the Lii'dra; one of xenophobia and war.

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

[[File:ambassadorzor.jpg|thumb|right|Ambassador Va'zuilts Zo'ra, a Type CB 'Prince' ambassador for the Zo'ra Hive, currently living in an embassy in Mendell City, Biesel. It is adorned in Alliance gear for the sake of decency.]]

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two opposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

===Internal Organs===

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

===Limbs===

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 2 currently operational, 4 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 14.2% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 7
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.8 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Information for Whitelisted Players=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Have a nifty bite function. Click on 'bite' in IC tab with an aggressive hold and you shred into them with mandibles.
*Can see in the dark, a little more than tajarans, so pretty well.
*Minor brute damage buff. X.5 addition.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage. x2 exactly.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge. Basically, no cross-departmental, Unbound or Bound alike.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Can't be any form of head, unless you count a Quartermaster as a head.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) If you're a drone, basically, everyone has free reign to abuse you.

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca

2015-03-24T00:25:21Z

Covert0ddity: /* Zo'ra */

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in
multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on December 21, 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [http://aurorastation.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=28 here]

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===The Old Era===

The earliest records of Vaurca intelligence range from some time starting between 100,000 and 150,00 years ago. During this period, the first signs of actual documentation and history are recorded. According to the documents and few murals, nomadism claims all the primitive hives due to the harsh nature of the planet. Queens venture with their workers by their side, exhausting caves of one of the only food substances on the planet. This nomadism is caused because of the harsh nature of the moon, orbitting the intensely radioactive gas giant, Sedantis I. Despite the lack of resources, a structure is seen taken place during this time, as there is evidence of a culture of warfare being brought up. Some battles are seen depicted on cave murals, and a sense of honor is creaed around drones where, if victorious in battle, the enemy bodies must be consumed after their head is severed from the body with the victor's mandibles. All fighting was done using the claws on a drone's hand, with mandibles, or usage of the legs; although tools existed, it seemed using them in battle was a form of taboo. This may explain why most warriors of present day Vaurca use weaponry integrated into themselves; a way to fight more efficiently without breaking their code of honor.

===The Era of Change===

Approximately 60,000 years ago, the nomadism is recorded to have ceased, with the developement of large-scale farming of their primary fungus foodsource. This leads to a massive increase of drones, and some hives are recorded to nearly cover entire deserts. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. The old honor system begins to be discarded, as steel forges begin creating weapons like the ranged 'Spike Maul,' a primitive but effective cross-bow weapon that fires barbed spikes at a high velocity, and 'Claws of Steel,' metal encasings around the already formdiable claws of the drones. Similar developements that humans also discovered were made, such as simple spears and axe-like weapons.Some armors are created to counteract the effects of weapons like these. Some warriors were known as 'Yuis'uit'oi,' meaning 'The Riders,' as they would ride some of the indigenous species of their planet into battle. These animals included the massive beetles known coaqually as 'scarabs' to humans. Scarabs were driven to extinction due to their constant use in warfare and inability to breed fast enough to cope with their numbers falling. Many massive battles of several hundred thousand warriors are recorded from this era, and vast cities can still be discovered on Sedantis, remnants of these once massive hives.

Despite war being a massive part of the Era of Change, there appears to be massive improvements in governmental systems. According to ancient manuscripts, the Queen was reduced from being the center, ruling body of the hive to a simple breeding and advisory tool. Evidence of larger hives, such as the Zo'ra hive, are ruled by an elected Council, making decisions that effect the hive in total. This gives evidence that all, or nearly every, Vaurca was originally self aware and chose its own path in life.

===The Era of Augments===

The Era of Change ended approximately 20,000 years ago, when the technological and cultural growth reached a head after the developement of nuclear technology. While always prone to augmenting themselves, any attempts to completely genetically change a given drone, or even cybernetically enhance it ended in catastrophic failure that ended in death for the subject. This phenomenon occured for unknown reasons. Evidence suggests that the Vaurca either had a lucky break, or discovered a form of alien technology on their home-moon, that allowed them to suddenly completely engineer themselves cybernetically, but also on the genetic level, leaving what we know as Vaurca today; the three biological and cultural castes, and the 'paradise' of the Queen. Fundemantal changes began to strike across the entire race as the old ways were solidified into a modern work-horse fueled by the new power and efficiency of the workers and soldiers. Workers could work for ten times as long, five times as hard, and for 25% of the food and water originally needed, and soldiers could be much more terrifying and formidable in battle. While the augments offered many new freedoms, a certain physical system began to occur as a soldier who was given war augments, could not easibly be an efficient general purpose worker or artist, and left it trapped within the war caste indefinitely; which began to become a social problem, as most hatchlings were given augments that hardened them for a future role from birth, a role that most did not want. A Vaurca who had wanted to become a farmer would end up being a pilot, or part hazerdous waste disposal team.

This lack of social freedom paved way for the enigmatic development of the 'Paradise' we see today, where the conscioussness of a Vaurca is downloaded onto the virtual reality hub of the Queen, and from there can do anything, be anything, simulate anything or converse with fellow Vaurca from the nueral level; experiencing emotions on an entire new dynamic, something unrelateable by other sentient species. After the developement of the Paradise, all warriors and workers are drones, nothing more. Mindless (but effective, efficient, and cost-less) machines that work for the hive, while their minds explore the limitless reality offered within the Type CA.

===The Era of Stars===

Movement into the stars for the Vaurca was inevitable, despite the fear they have of the sky and its possible connotation of hell. Initial movement into the stars was recorded after the Vaurca discovery of fusion power, approximately 12,000 years ago, encompassing the entirety of human history itself. Starting with unmanned probes and progressing to massive STL colony ships, Vaurca space history has been something of a mystery, as no hive discovered FTL prior to human contact, apart from the War-Driven Lii'dra hive, but even they only discovered the secrets of warp technology conveniently close to human contact; only 40 years before. The reason that no hive discovered FTL technology is theorised that they did not observe, or had no chance to observe, some of hte natural phenomenon that other races learned FTL technology from; like observing a wormhole for warp, or testing for resonance cascade scenario such as Dr. Samantha Tigard and her Skrellian science team were attempting to study.

This non-developement of FTL led to many difficult situations for interstellar hives, such as the Zo'ra, K'lax, Lii'dra, and other major hives. Because they could not feasibly house entire fleets, they were led to the developement of 'Star Homes' or, 'Titan Primes,' as they are named by human observers. These Star Homes are massive constructs, and capable of multi-tasking many different functionalities. Star Homes are battleships, colony ships, mobile incubators, carriers, refineries, and production facilities all in their own. Being very modular, they can exchange parts and are easily repairable if damaged as long as there is an abundance of resources, such as an asteroid or planet. Star Homes carry smaller warships in case enemy hives come in contact with them, but due to sheer size and scale, are fully capable of combatting another Star Home or smaller vessels if forced to do so; but only as a last resort. Through the use of Star Homes, the Vaurca have been able to more or less populate the habitable systems of the Spider nebula, and through the use of FTL communicators have been able to hold weak governmental fabric amongst hives.

Prior to human contact, most hives were at war with each other, with the leaderboards reading the Lii'dra hive as winning, and the Zo'ra hive and its allies as losing. While tensions have never been fully settled, when presented with the drive technologically advanced Lii'dra, most hives united under the banner of the Zo'ra who were the most populous hive, and comparably advanced, but not to the Lii'dra. The Lii'dra inexpleicable developed Warp technology, and were using it to systematically destroy the Star Homes of Zo'ra and its allies, as well as their colonies.

===Contact with Humanity (The New Era)===

None of the species of the galaxy had any idea that the Vaurca existed until an eventful day in November, 2456 when the drive plume and heat signature of a massive ship burning its engine in order to slow down for an approach was detected near the Romanovich cloud, in Tau Ceti. While the galaxy was taken aback by this information, the Sol Alliance ( With NanoTrasen Assistance) acted immediately. A small scout vessel was dispatched to the ship, which was revelead to be a 30 kilometer (18.23 mile) vessel, mostly engine and radiator. Dubbed 'Titan Prime' by the media, Tau Ceti and news places over the known galaxy were bubbling with excitement as the object approached its apparent destination: Biesel.

After a few weeks, the object passed the Romanovich cloud and dispatched over twenty drones to key locations in Tau Ceti. Some of these locations included the NMSS Odin, the ASV Von Braun, ASV Arcadia, NSS Aurora, NSS Exodus, NMV Retaliation, and one to each planet. These drones were tiny compared to the ship; and even to fighters of the current generation, spanning about twenty meters long and seven tall. Although all drones dispatched to the location turned back immediately, one did not. The one that was headed for the NSS Aurora stayed, and in fact, contacted the station through use of the station's own intercommunication system; displaying a single, unintelligible message. After a period of three hours, the crew were dispatched to the probe and entered, finding a hollow vessel. In the middle was a single alien computer, and in a corner of a room were Vaurca eggs, presumably for use in early colonization.

Research crew of the NSS Aurora, including Dr. Phoebe Essel and team were able to interact with the computer, painstakingly finding ways to translate the cryptic language it was attempting to speak in, and after usage of a pAI, were able to teach the machine Tau Ceti Basic. After some conversation, the computer detached itself and was brought aboard the NSS Aurora for a psuedo-first contact situation. During this time, humanity learned that the probe was, in fact, a type BC Vaurca, and that it had been sent in order to document the indigenous species of the solar system. The computer tapped into the bluespace connection of the Artificial Intelligence of the station, uploaded core data files onto its hardware, and then departed.

From this point on, communications diplomatically occured. First radio contact was established with the Prime Minister of the Sol Alliance, Chief Executive Officer and Board of Directorates of NanoTrasen, and the Type CA of Titan Prime. It was learned that the vessel was sent approximately three thousand years ago on a colinization mission from the Spider Nebula, a dense cluster that none of the known species took any interest in. It was also learned that Titan Prime housed six million Vuarca on it, a staggering number for even a vessel of that massive size. Basic history was exchanged, and preperations occured for a bluespace gate to be built in the Spider Nebula, specifically the star system of Sedantis (Home of the species, and currently owned by the Zo'ra hive). This would connect the race with the other species of the galaxy for technological advancement, diplomacy, trade, and other boons of galactic community.

While the construction ships assembled, Titan Prime came closer to Biesel, but, before settling into a stable orbit around the planet, disaster struck. A lone destroyer accompanied by a wing of piggy-packing frigates, owned by the violently anti-alien, pro-human organization known as 'Terran Confederacy of Truth Crusaders,' or TFTC, managed to steer through the blockade put up by Sol Alliance military vessels. The ship and its compatriots fired four nuclear missiles, and managed to get around fourty mass driver shots into the ship before simultaneousley being apprehended by Titan Prime's weaponry, and Sol Military ships.

While the ship was prepared to take damage, it was not ready for a surprise attack. The attack crippled parts of the ship and killed over 40,000 Vaurca. An emergency distress call was sent towards NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance, and they acted immediately. Ferries, re-purposed cargo ships, and civilian shuttles evacuated 2 million inhabitants of Titan Prime, ferrying them mostly to New Gibson and Biesel, respectively. Evacuations are still undergoing, but damage to Titan Prime and chaos in the ship is making it more difficult. The Queens and type CB of the ship were rescued first, and are reportedly residing in stations housed by the Alliance or in the Provinces, and one Type CB resides within the Administration district of Mendell City, acting as diplomat.

Today, over a million and a half bound and unbound Vaurca live in 'Provinces,' a non-offensive term for the concentration camp-like slums they are forced into on New Gibson, and over 500,000 Vaurca live in similar 'Provinces' on Biesel. Officials are extremely worried about the cost of continued evacuation of Titan Prime, as the quick-breeding Vaurca could out-breed the already solidified civilian population in sixteen years.

Back in the Spider Nebula, however, the tides of war turn as knowledge from Titan Prime flows in from the Bluespace gate that was recently built. Since first contact, the Zo'ra hive has discovered Bluespace, and extremely advanced forms of weaponry, turning them against their own kind. Since a week after the bluespace gate was built, the Zo'ra hive is currently undergoing a war of conquest, and subjegating other hives as 'Client Hives' which work and build for the Zo'ra hive, enslaving hives, or utterly destroying the hives that do not surrender. Since the Lii'dra hive had been tormenting the Zo'ra hive for a longer period of time, the Zo'ra hive has hit Lii'dra extremely hard, taking down their number of colonies and Star Homes by 75%. The Lii'dra, who refuse to surrender, fight with the ferocity of knowing they will be destroyed if the Zo'ra are not stopped, and similar hives are beggining to ally under a new banner - the Banner of the Lii'dra; one of xenophobia and war.

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

[[File:ambassadorzor.jpg|thumb|right|Ambassador Va'zuilts Zo'ra, a Type CB 'Prince' ambassador for the Zo'ra Hive, currently living in an embassy in Mendell City, Biesel. It is adorned in Alliance gear for the sake of decency.]]

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two opposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

===Internal Organs===

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

===Limbs===

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Star Homes: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 7
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.8 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Information for Whitelisted Players=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Have a nifty bite function. Click on 'bite' in IC tab with an aggressive hold and you shred into them with mandibles.
*Can see in the dark, a little more than tajarans, so pretty well.
*Minor brute damage buff. X.5 addition.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage. x2 exactly.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge. Basically, no cross-departmental, Unbound or Bound alike.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Can't be any form of head, unless you count a Quartermaster as a head.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) If you're a drone, basically, everyone has free reign to abuse you.

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca

2015-03-23T05:21:31Z

Covert0ddity: /* Contact with Humanity (The New Era) */

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in
multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on December 21, 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [http://aurorastation.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=28 here]

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===The Old Era===

The earliest records of Vaurca intelligence range from some time starting between 100,000 and 150,00 years ago. During this period, the first signs of actual documentation and history are recorded. According to the documents and few murals, nomadism claims all the primitive hives due to the harsh nature of the planet. Queens venture with their workers by their side, exhausting caves of one of the only food substances on the planet. This nomadism is caused because of the harsh nature of the moon, orbitting the intensely radioactive gas giant, Sedantis I. Despite the lack of resources, a structure is seen taken place during this time, as there is evidence of a culture of warfare being brought up. Some battles are seen depicted on cave murals, and a sense of honor is creaed around drones where, if victorious in battle, the enemy bodies must be consumed after their head is severed from the body with the victor's mandibles. All fighting was done using the claws on a drone's hand, with mandibles, or usage of the legs; although tools existed, it seemed using them in battle was a form of taboo. This may explain why most warriors of present day Vaurca use weaponry integrated into themselves; a way to fight more efficiently without breaking their code of honor.

===The Era of Change===

Approximately 60,000 years ago, the nomadism is recorded to have ceased, with the developement of large-scale farming of their primary fungus foodsource. This leads to a massive increase of drones, and some hives are recorded to nearly cover entire deserts. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. The old honor system begins to be discarded, as steel forges begin creating weapons like the ranged 'Spike Maul,' a primitive but effective cross-bow weapon that fires barbed spikes at a high velocity, and 'Claws of Steel,' metal encasings around the already formdiable claws of the drones. Similar developements that humans also discovered were made, such as simple spears and axe-like weapons.Some armors are created to counteract the effects of weapons like these. Some warriors were known as 'Yuis'uit'oi,' meaning 'The Riders,' as they would ride some of the indigenous species of their planet into battle. These animals included the massive beetles known coaqually as 'scarabs' to humans. Scarabs were driven to extinction due to their constant use in warfare and inability to breed fast enough to cope with their numbers falling. Many massive battles of several hundred thousand warriors are recorded from this era, and vast cities can still be discovered on Sedantis, remnants of these once massive hives.

Despite war being a massive part of the Era of Change, there appears to be massive improvements in governmental systems. According to ancient manuscripts, the Queen was reduced from being the center, ruling body of the hive to a simple breeding and advisory tool. Evidence of larger hives, such as the Zo'ra hive, are ruled by an elected Council, making decisions that effect the hive in total. This gives evidence that all, or nearly every, Vaurca was originally self aware and chose its own path in life.

===The Era of Augments===

The Era of Change ended approximately 20,000 years ago, when the technological and cultural growth reached a head after the developement of nuclear technology. While always prone to augmenting themselves, any attempts to completely genetically change a given drone, or even cybernetically enhance it ended in catastrophic failure that ended in death for the subject. This phenomenon occured for unknown reasons. Evidence suggests that the Vaurca either had a lucky break, or discovered a form of alien technology on their home-moon, that allowed them to suddenly completely engineer themselves cybernetically, but also on the genetic level, leaving what we know as Vaurca today; the three biological and cultural castes, and the 'paradise' of the Queen. Fundemantal changes began to strike across the entire race as the old ways were solidified into a modern work-horse fueled by the new power and efficiency of the workers and soldiers. Workers could work for ten times as long, five times as hard, and for 25% of the food and water originally needed, and soldiers could be much more terrifying and formidable in battle. While the augments offered many new freedoms, a certain physical system began to occur as a soldier who was given war augments, could not easibly be an efficient general purpose worker or artist, and left it trapped within the war caste indefinitely; which began to become a social problem, as most hatchlings were given augments that hardened them for a future role from birth, a role that most did not want. A Vaurca who had wanted to become a farmer would end up being a pilot, or part hazerdous waste disposal team.

This lack of social freedom paved way for the enigmatic development of the 'Paradise' we see today, where the conscioussness of a Vaurca is downloaded onto the virtual reality hub of the Queen, and from there can do anything, be anything, simulate anything or converse with fellow Vaurca from the nueral level; experiencing emotions on an entire new dynamic, something unrelateable by other sentient species. After the developement of the Paradise, all warriors and workers are drones, nothing more. Mindless (but effective, efficient, and cost-less) machines that work for the hive, while their minds explore the limitless reality offered within the Type CA.

===The Era of Stars===

Movement into the stars for the Vaurca was inevitable, despite the fear they have of the sky and its possible connotation of hell. Initial movement into the stars was recorded after the Vaurca discovery of fusion power, approximately 12,000 years ago, encompassing the entirety of human history itself. Starting with unmanned probes and progressing to massive STL colony ships, Vaurca space history has been something of a mystery, as no hive discovered FTL prior to human contact, apart from the War-Driven Lii'dra hive, but even they only discovered the secrets of warp technology conveniently close to human contact; only 40 years before. The reason that no hive discovered FTL technology is theorised that they did not observe, or had no chance to observe, some of hte natural phenomenon that other races learned FTL technology from; like observing a wormhole for warp, or testing for resonance cascade scenario such as Dr. Samantha Tigard and her Skrellian science team were attempting to study.

This non-developement of FTL led to many difficult situations for interstellar hives, such as the Zo'ra, K'lax, Lii'dra, and other major hives. Because they could not feasibly house entire fleets, they were led to the developement of 'Star Homes' or, 'Titan Primes,' as they are named by human observers. These Star Homes are massive constructs, and capable of multi-tasking many different functionalities. Star Homes are battleships, colony ships, mobile incubators, carriers, refineries, and production facilities all in their own. Being very modular, they can exchange parts and are easily repairable if damaged as long as there is an abundance of resources, such as an asteroid or planet. Star Homes carry smaller warships in case enemy hives come in contact with them, but due to sheer size and scale, are fully capable of combatting another Star Home or smaller vessels if forced to do so; but only as a last resort. Through the use of Star Homes, the Vaurca have been able to more or less populate the habitable systems of the Spider nebula, and through the use of FTL communicators have been able to hold weak governmental fabric amongst hives.

Prior to human contact, most hives were at war with each other, with the leaderboards reading the Lii'dra hive as winning, and the Zo'ra hive and its allies as losing. While tensions have never been fully settled, when presented with the drive technologically advanced Lii'dra, most hives united under the banner of the Zo'ra who were the most populous hive, and comparably advanced, but not to the Lii'dra. The Lii'dra inexpleicable developed Warp technology, and were using it to systematically destroy the Star Homes of Zo'ra and its allies, as well as their colonies.

===Contact with Humanity (The New Era)===

None of the species of the galaxy had any idea that the Vaurca existed until an eventful day in November, 2456 when the drive plume and heat signature of a massive ship burning its engine in order to slow down for an approach was detected near the Romanovich cloud, in Tau Ceti. While the galaxy was taken aback by this information, the Sol Alliance ( With NanoTrasen Assistance) acted immediately. A small scout vessel was dispatched to the ship, which was revelead to be a 30 kilometer (18.23 mile) vessel, mostly engine and radiator. Dubbed 'Titan Prime' by the media, Tau Ceti and news places over the known galaxy were bubbling with excitement as the object approached its apparent destination: Biesel.

After a few weeks, the object passed the Romanovich cloud and dispatched over twenty drones to key locations in Tau Ceti. Some of these locations included the NMSS Odin, the ASV Von Braun, ASV Arcadia, NSS Aurora, NSS Exodus, NMV Retaliation, and one to each planet. These drones were tiny compared to the ship; and even to fighters of the current generation, spanning about twenty meters long and seven tall. Although all drones dispatched to the location turned back immediately, one did not. The one that was headed for the NSS Aurora stayed, and in fact, contacted the station through use of the station's own intercommunication system; displaying a single, unintelligible message. After a period of three hours, the crew were dispatched to the probe and entered, finding a hollow vessel. In the middle was a single alien computer, and in a corner of a room were Vaurca eggs, presumably for use in early colonization.

Research crew of the NSS Aurora, including Dr. Phoebe Essel and team were able to interact with the computer, painstakingly finding ways to translate the cryptic language it was attempting to speak in, and after usage of a pAI, were able to teach the machine Tau Ceti Basic. After some conversation, the computer detached itself and was brought aboard the NSS Aurora for a psuedo-first contact situation. During this time, humanity learned that the probe was, in fact, a type BC Vaurca, and that it had been sent in order to document the indigenous species of the solar system. The computer tapped into the bluespace connection of the Artificial Intelligence of the station, uploaded core data files onto its hardware, and then departed.

From this point on, communications diplomatically occured. First radio contact was established with the Prime Minister of the Sol Alliance, Chief Executive Officer and Board of Directorates of NanoTrasen, and the Type CA of Titan Prime. It was learned that the vessel was sent approximately three thousand years ago on a colinization mission from the Spider Nebula, a dense cluster that none of the known species took any interest in. It was also learned that Titan Prime housed six million Vuarca on it, a staggering number for even a vessel of that massive size. Basic history was exchanged, and preperations occured for a bluespace gate to be built in the Spider Nebula, specifically the star system of Sedantis (Home of the species, and currently owned by the Zo'ra hive). This would connect the race with the other species of the galaxy for technological advancement, diplomacy, trade, and other boons of galactic community.

While the construction ships assembled, Titan Prime came closer to Biesel, but, before settling into a stable orbit around the planet, disaster struck. A lone destroyer accompanied by a wing of piggy-packing frigates, owned by the violently anti-alien, pro-human organization known as 'Terran Confederacy of Truth Crusaders,' or TFTC, managed to steer through the blockade put up by Sol Alliance military vessels. The ship and its compatriots fired four nuclear missiles, and managed to get around fourty mass driver shots into the ship before simultaneousley being apprehended by Titan Prime's weaponry, and Sol Military ships.

While the ship was prepared to take damage, it was not ready for a surprise attack. The attack crippled parts of the ship and killed over 40,000 Vaurca. An emergency distress call was sent towards NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance, and they acted immediately. Ferries, re-purposed cargo ships, and civilian shuttles evacuated 2 million inhabitants of Titan Prime, ferrying them mostly to New Gibson and Biesel, respectively. Evacuations are still undergoing, but damage to Titan Prime and chaos in the ship is making it more difficult. The Queens and type CB of the ship were rescued first, and are reportedly residing in stations housed by the Alliance or in the Provinces, and one Type CB resides within the Administration district of Mendell City, acting as diplomat.

Today, over a million and a half bound and unbound Vaurca live in 'Provinces,' a non-offensive term for the concentration camp-like slums they are forced into on New Gibson, and over 500,000 Vaurca live in similar 'Provinces' on Biesel. Officials are extremely worried about the cost of continued evacuation of Titan Prime, as the quick-breeding Vaurca could out-breed the already solidified civilian population in sixteen years.

Back in the Spider Nebula, however, the tides of war turn as knowledge from Titan Prime flows in from the Bluespace gate that was recently built. Since first contact, the Zo'ra hive has discovered Bluespace, and extremely advanced forms of weaponry, turning them against their own kind. Since a week after the bluespace gate was built, the Zo'ra hive is currently undergoing a war of conquest, and subjegating other hives as 'Client Hives' which work and build for the Zo'ra hive, enslaving hives, or utterly destroying the hives that do not surrender. Since the Lii'dra hive had been tormenting the Zo'ra hive for a longer period of time, the Zo'ra hive has hit Lii'dra extremely hard, taking down their number of colonies and Star Homes by 75%. The Lii'dra, who refuse to surrender, fight with the ferocity of knowing they will be destroyed if the Zo'ra are not stopped, and similar hives are beggining to ally under a new banner - the Banner of the Lii'dra; one of xenophobia and war.

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

[[File:ambassadorzor.jpg|thumb|right|Ambassador Va'zuilts Zo'ra, a Type CB 'Prince' ambassador for the Zo'ra Hive, currently living in an embassy in Mendell City, Biesel. It is adorned in Alliance gear for the sake of decency.]]

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two opposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

===Internal Organs===

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

===Limbs===

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 7
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.8 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Information for Whitelisted Players=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Have a nifty bite function. Click on 'bite' in IC tab with an aggressive hold and you shred into them with mandibles.
*Can see in the dark, a little more than tajarans, so pretty well.
*Minor brute damage buff. X.5 addition.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage. x2 exactly.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge. Basically, no cross-departmental, Unbound or Bound alike.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Can't be any form of head, unless you count a Quartermaster as a head.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) If you're a drone, basically, everyone has free reign to abuse you.

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca

2015-03-23T04:38:16Z

Covert0ddity: /* History */

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in
multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on December 21, 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [http://aurorastation.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=28 here]

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===The Old Era===

The earliest records of Vaurca intelligence range from some time starting between 100,000 and 150,00 years ago. During this period, the first signs of actual documentation and history are recorded. According to the documents and few murals, nomadism claims all the primitive hives due to the harsh nature of the planet. Queens venture with their workers by their side, exhausting caves of one of the only food substances on the planet. This nomadism is caused because of the harsh nature of the moon, orbitting the intensely radioactive gas giant, Sedantis I. Despite the lack of resources, a structure is seen taken place during this time, as there is evidence of a culture of warfare being brought up. Some battles are seen depicted on cave murals, and a sense of honor is creaed around drones where, if victorious in battle, the enemy bodies must be consumed after their head is severed from the body with the victor's mandibles. All fighting was done using the claws on a drone's hand, with mandibles, or usage of the legs; although tools existed, it seemed using them in battle was a form of taboo. This may explain why most warriors of present day Vaurca use weaponry integrated into themselves; a way to fight more efficiently without breaking their code of honor.

===The Era of Change===

Approximately 60,000 years ago, the nomadism is recorded to have ceased, with the developement of large-scale farming of their primary fungus foodsource. This leads to a massive increase of drones, and some hives are recorded to nearly cover entire deserts. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. The old honor system begins to be discarded, as steel forges begin creating weapons like the ranged 'Spike Maul,' a primitive but effective cross-bow weapon that fires barbed spikes at a high velocity, and 'Claws of Steel,' metal encasings around the already formdiable claws of the drones. Similar developements that humans also discovered were made, such as simple spears and axe-like weapons.Some armors are created to counteract the effects of weapons like these. Some warriors were known as 'Yuis'uit'oi,' meaning 'The Riders,' as they would ride some of the indigenous species of their planet into battle. These animals included the massive beetles known coaqually as 'scarabs' to humans. Scarabs were driven to extinction due to their constant use in warfare and inability to breed fast enough to cope with their numbers falling. Many massive battles of several hundred thousand warriors are recorded from this era, and vast cities can still be discovered on Sedantis, remnants of these once massive hives.

Despite war being a massive part of the Era of Change, there appears to be massive improvements in governmental systems. According to ancient manuscripts, the Queen was reduced from being the center, ruling body of the hive to a simple breeding and advisory tool. Evidence of larger hives, such as the Zo'ra hive, are ruled by an elected Council, making decisions that effect the hive in total. This gives evidence that all, or nearly every, Vaurca was originally self aware and chose its own path in life.

===The Era of Augments===

The Era of Change ended approximately 20,000 years ago, when the technological and cultural growth reached a head after the developement of nuclear technology. While always prone to augmenting themselves, any attempts to completely genetically change a given drone, or even cybernetically enhance it ended in catastrophic failure that ended in death for the subject. This phenomenon occured for unknown reasons. Evidence suggests that the Vaurca either had a lucky break, or discovered a form of alien technology on their home-moon, that allowed them to suddenly completely engineer themselves cybernetically, but also on the genetic level, leaving what we know as Vaurca today; the three biological and cultural castes, and the 'paradise' of the Queen. Fundemantal changes began to strike across the entire race as the old ways were solidified into a modern work-horse fueled by the new power and efficiency of the workers and soldiers. Workers could work for ten times as long, five times as hard, and for 25% of the food and water originally needed, and soldiers could be much more terrifying and formidable in battle. While the augments offered many new freedoms, a certain physical system began to occur as a soldier who was given war augments, could not easibly be an efficient general purpose worker or artist, and left it trapped within the war caste indefinitely; which began to become a social problem, as most hatchlings were given augments that hardened them for a future role from birth, a role that most did not want. A Vaurca who had wanted to become a farmer would end up being a pilot, or part hazerdous waste disposal team.

This lack of social freedom paved way for the enigmatic development of the 'Paradise' we see today, where the conscioussness of a Vaurca is downloaded onto the virtual reality hub of the Queen, and from there can do anything, be anything, simulate anything or converse with fellow Vaurca from the nueral level; experiencing emotions on an entire new dynamic, something unrelateable by other sentient species. After the developement of the Paradise, all warriors and workers are drones, nothing more. Mindless (but effective, efficient, and cost-less) machines that work for the hive, while their minds explore the limitless reality offered within the Type CA.

===The Era of Stars===

Movement into the stars for the Vaurca was inevitable, despite the fear they have of the sky and its possible connotation of hell. Initial movement into the stars was recorded after the Vaurca discovery of fusion power, approximately 12,000 years ago, encompassing the entirety of human history itself. Starting with unmanned probes and progressing to massive STL colony ships, Vaurca space history has been something of a mystery, as no hive discovered FTL prior to human contact, apart from the War-Driven Lii'dra hive, but even they only discovered the secrets of warp technology conveniently close to human contact; only 40 years before. The reason that no hive discovered FTL technology is theorised that they did not observe, or had no chance to observe, some of hte natural phenomenon that other races learned FTL technology from; like observing a wormhole for warp, or testing for resonance cascade scenario such as Dr. Samantha Tigard and her Skrellian science team were attempting to study.

This non-developement of FTL led to many difficult situations for interstellar hives, such as the Zo'ra, K'lax, Lii'dra, and other major hives. Because they could not feasibly house entire fleets, they were led to the developement of 'Star Homes' or, 'Titan Primes,' as they are named by human observers. These Star Homes are massive constructs, and capable of multi-tasking many different functionalities. Star Homes are battleships, colony ships, mobile incubators, carriers, refineries, and production facilities all in their own. Being very modular, they can exchange parts and are easily repairable if damaged as long as there is an abundance of resources, such as an asteroid or planet. Star Homes carry smaller warships in case enemy hives come in contact with them, but due to sheer size and scale, are fully capable of combatting another Star Home or smaller vessels if forced to do so; but only as a last resort. Through the use of Star Homes, the Vaurca have been able to more or less populate the habitable systems of the Spider nebula, and through the use of FTL communicators have been able to hold weak governmental fabric amongst hives.

Prior to human contact, most hives were at war with each other, with the leaderboards reading the Lii'dra hive as winning, and the Zo'ra hive and its allies as losing. While tensions have never been fully settled, when presented with the drive technologically advanced Lii'dra, most hives united under the banner of the Zo'ra who were the most populous hive, and comparably advanced, but not to the Lii'dra. The Lii'dra inexpleicable developed Warp technology, and were using it to systematically destroy the Star Homes of Zo'ra and its allies, as well as their colonies.

===Contact with Humanity (The New Era)===

None of the species of the galaxy had any idea that the Vaurca existed until an eventful day in November, 2456 when the drive plume and heat signature of a massive ship burning its engine in order to slow down for an approach was detected near the Romanovich cloud, in Tau Ceti. While the galaxy

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

[[File:ambassadorzor.jpg|thumb|right|Ambassador Va'zuilts Zo'ra, a Type CB 'Prince' ambassador for the Zo'ra Hive, currently living in an embassy in Mendell City, Biesel. It is adorned in Alliance gear for the sake of decency.]]

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two opposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

===Internal Organs===

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

===Limbs===

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 7
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.8 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Information for Whitelisted Players=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Have a nifty bite function. Click on 'bite' in IC tab with an aggressive hold and you shred into them with mandibles.
*Can see in the dark, a little more than tajarans, so pretty well.
*Minor brute damage buff. X.5 addition.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage. x2 exactly.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge. Basically, no cross-departmental, Unbound or Bound alike.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Can't be any form of head, unless you count a Quartermaster as a head.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) If you're a drone, basically, everyone has free reign to abuse you.

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca

2015-03-23T03:16:37Z

Covert0ddity: /* History */

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in
multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on December 21, 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [http://aurorastation.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=28 here]

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===Ancient History===
The earlies records of Vaurca intelligence range from some time between 100,000 and 150,00 years ago. During this period, first signs of actual documentation of history are recorded. Due to the harsh nature of the planet, nomadism claims all the primitive hives, as queens venture with their workers by their side, exhausting caves of one of the only food substances on the planet. This nomadism is caused because of the harsh nature of the moon, orbitting the intensely radioactive gas giant, Sedantis I. Despite the lack of resources, a structure is seen taken place during this time, as there is evidence of a culture of warfare being brought up. Some battles are seen depicted on cave murals, and a sense of honor is creaed around drones where, if victorious in battle, the enemy bodies must be consumed after their head is severed from the body with the victor's mandibles. All fighting was done using the claws on a drone's hand, with mandibles, or usage of the legs; although tools existed, it seemed using them in battle was a form of taboo. This may explain why most warriors of present day Vaurca use weaponry integrated into themselves; a way to fight more efficiently without breaking their code of honor.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 20,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

This period also saw development of the 'Paradise' and the third caste. All drones and warriors were from, this point on, completely that; mindless servants of the hive, while their minds explored the infinite capabilities and simulations of the Virtual Reality that resides within the Type CA.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space. The Zo'ra Hive in particular, launched 5 30 Kilometer space-vessels that operated in STL to the following star systems: Tau Ceti, Epsilon Eridani, Sol, Alpha Centauri, and Moghes.

These vessels were launched because of radio signals intercepted from those general areas. While the only recovered ship is 'Titan Prime,' the one that made first contact with Humanity at Tau Ceti, the other ships are scheduled to arrive at their destinations within 100-500 years.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip, finish after release events.]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

[[File:ambassadorzor.jpg|thumb|right|Ambassador Va'zuilts Zo'ra, a Type CB 'Prince' ambassador for the Zo'ra Hive, currently living in an embassy in Mendell City, Biesel. It is adorned in Alliance gear for the sake of decency.]]

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two opposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

===Internal Organs===

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

===Limbs===

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 7
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.8 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Information for Whitelisted Players=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Have a nifty bite function. Click on 'bite' in IC tab with an aggressive hold and you shred into them with mandibles.
*Can see in the dark, a little more than tajarans, so pretty well.
*Minor brute damage buff. X.5 addition.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage. x2 exactly.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge. Basically, no cross-departmental, Unbound or Bound alike.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Can't be any form of head, unless you count a Quartermaster as a head.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) If you're a drone, basically, everyone has free reign to abuse you.

{{Navbox Lore}}

New Player Lore Guide

2015-03-23T02:57:03Z

Covert0ddity: /* Vaurca */

{{toc_right}}The year is [[Timeline| 2456 CE (Common Era)]], and since the late 21st century, Humanity has been spreading out among the stars. Leaving behind their homeworld of [[Sol| Earth]], humans proliferated throughout space, expanding hundreds of light-years in all directions under the banner of the [[Sol Alliance]]. After a century, flourishing cities had been established in nearby systems such as [[Tau Ceti]] and [[Epsilon Eridani]], and in the centuries that would follow, hundreds of systems would fall under the control of humanity. Outposts on Garden worlds became metropolises in the span of decades, entire asteroids and moons were mined out and hostile worlds were terraformed and subdued.

At the end of the 22nd century, the power and influence of the Sol Alliance was at its height, but following the 23rd and 24th centuries the power of humanity's central government began to wane. Several rebellions and interstellar wars left Earth devastated and the Alliance conceding independence to its outer-most systems.

In the middle of the prosperity and strife, transtellars have for centuries embarked to make massive profits. The major corporate players had managed to establish a stable, if shaky peace between themselves, with no single corporation able to completely dominate the others. Any semblance of equilibrium between the mega-corps was shattered with NanoTransen's discovery of the element plasma.

Humanity is not alone in this vast sea of stars. Numerous alien races have been discovered in the past 50 years, some peaceful, some hostile and some just plain weird. The brilliant [[Skrell]], the crafty [[Tajara]], the warlike [[Unathi]] and elegant [[Dionaea]] are but a few of the races of this extremely diverse galaxy. Many more exist, and while most are simply apathetic to humanity, others are openly hostile.

If one thing can be said to unite the various species, it is the drive to control the powerful element plasma, which not only has revitalized space travel but also holds untold capabilities. Humanity, specifically NanoTrasen, has taken control of the vast majority of plasma deposits, drawing the interest of many alien species, extremist cults and even more mysterious forces. Within humanity, a divide has begun to form: What is NanoTrasen's role not just economically but in human society? Are they the benevolent corporation that keeps the engine of human interstellar civilization alive or are they the greedy suits dedicated to manipulating galactic society through their stranglehold on the plasma market?

Recently the Syndicate has emerged as an organization dedicated to stopping NanoTrasen. Decentralized, secretive and efficient, the Syndicate has attacked NanoTrasen installations, mining outposts and personnel. Some decry them as terrorists, others see them as the only force with a chance to overthrown NanoTrasen.

This age is one of '''progress''', '''war''', and '''greed'''. It is the '''Age of Mankind'''.
{{Navbox Lore}}

==Your Workplace==

Welcome to [[Tau Ceti]], a star system approximately 12 light-years away from [[Sol]], under the joint control of the [[Republic of Biesel]] and the trans-stellar corporate conglomerate [[Nanotrasen Corporation|Nanotrasen]]. You have been assigned to work aboard the [[NSS Aurora]], a state-of-the-art research and mining facility orbiting Tau Ceti within the Romanovich Cloud at the very edge of the system. Even after several centuries of being inhabited by human colonists, and flourishing into a central trade hub for human space, the edge of Tau Ceti is still considered to be a frontier of sorts, as are the outer areas of most other star systems.

After the discovery of a substance known as [[Plasma]] in this system, Nanotrasen quickly established a monopoly that granted them control over Humanity's fuel source and established them as the most powerful corporation in human space.

==The Economy==

The most common currency in human space is the [[Economy| Standard Credit]], originally issued by the Sol Alliance in the early 22nd century. Despite the decline of the Sol Alliance, the Standard Credit remains the reserve currency of many polities, and it is accepted on most worlds throughout human space. The Standard Credit is represented by '''cr''' (e.g. 5,000 cr).

==Known Space==
===Sol===
The home system of humanity, Sol is by far the most populated and, arguably, the most developed system in human space. It has seen great scientific process, prosperity and counties development by also great atrocities and suffering.

At the end of the Second Sol Alliance Civil War, The Sol system was left in ruins. It has slowly rebuilt itself over the past century and is joe considered more or less rebuilt. Earth occupies a place of prestige as humanity's homeworld and also as a world that is able to support a massive population with innovative, sustainable resource technologies. Luna has become something of a mishmash of galactic society: glittering skyscrapers within pressurized biodomes butt up awkwardly against walled off slums housing the descendants of Earth-refugees. Mars has seen small scale terraforming efforts take hold, with patches of the planet possessing a breathable atmosphere. Mars is still dotted with century old ruins, a consequence of resources forcibly diverted to the Earth recovery effort decades ago.

The administrative center of the Sol Alliance is Nova Concordia, in orbit around Mars. Built to replace the destroyed New Eden station, Nova Concordia is the seat of the Sol Alliance government. Mars is divided into mostly self-governing provinces, while Luna has been directly administered by an elected Sol Alliance representative. Earth is still divided among nation-states, but all are ultimately subject to the Sol Alliance. In practice, most Earth nations are autonomous, with the Alliance only rarely stepping in to resolve severe international disputes.

===Inner Colonies===
Also known as the Inner Sphere. The inner colonies lie within 100 lightyears of Sol. The inner sphere is home to 27 billion people, with 160 systems with at least 100,000 permanent residents. Six of these systems (including Sol) have populations exceeding one billion. Inner Colonies are the oldest in human space, typically between 200 and 350 years old. These worlds form the heartland of the Sol Alliance and are the technological and economic hub of human space, with endless streams of trade ships flowing through the Warp Gates connecting the most developed systems. Following the Holocaust of 2316, refugees from earth founded colonies in several uninhabited Red Dwarf systems and on the outskirts of many of the more developed systems.

Life here is the best in human space. Much of the population lives in relative comfort, although the average wage tends to be lower than that of the middle and some outer colonies. Towering arcologies, massive city-stations, and great multi-tiered metropolises which can reach over a kilometer tall can be found on the most populated of these systems. The Inner Colonies are home to the greatest cultural diversity in human space, with distinct colonial identities in many of the older systems, and several hundred spoken languages. The average lifespan ranges from 210-250.

===Mid Colonies===
Also known as the Mid Sphere. The Mid Colonies lie between 100 and 200 lightyears from Sol. The mid sphere has a combined population of 14 billion, and contains 213 systems with at least 100,000 permanent residents. Three of these systems have populations of at least a billion. Colonies here are typically 100 to 200 years old. The Sol Alliance remains the dominant power in this region of space, primarily through the use of client states. Following the Great War, several of the larger colonies declared independence. These Independent Powers continue to encroach upon the margins of Sol Alliance space.

Life here is good, though not quite as nice as in the inner colonies. Metropolises and mega-cities are a rarer site here than in the Inner Colonies, infrastructure tends to be less developed and the lack of direct access to the Warp Gate system means trading is more expensive. Inhabitants of the mid colonies are more likely to be skeptical of the Sol Alliance, resenting the control the inner colonies exert over the Alliance. The mid colonies are widely considered to be the edge of "developed" space, much to the consternation of the inhabitants of the outer colonies. The average lifespan here generally ranges from 190-230.

===Outer Colonies===
Also known as the Outer Sphere. The Outer Colonies lie between 200 and 300 lightyears from Sol. The outer sphere is home to 3 billion people and contains about 310 systems with at least 100,000 permanent residents. New colonies are still regularly founded in this sphere, and most settlements are less than 100 years old. These worlds lie beyond the reach of the Sol Alliance. Instead, the majority of the Outer Sphere is divided into a number of multi-system polities, generally aligned with one of the Great Powers.

Life here is harder than in the Mid colonies, though many see independence from the Sol Alliance as being worth the price. People here generally live in towns and cities of around 5,000-50,000 people. The 'Spacer' culture is especially strong in the Outer Colonies as countless migrants mine the asteroid belts in search of fortune. Millions of Outer Colonials live in simple orbitals, many relying on centrifugal force rather than gravity generators. Technology is generally a decade or two behind that of the inner and mid colonies. The average lifespan here ranges from 160-200.

===Frontier===
The Frontier consists of all space more than 300 lightyears away from Sol; it is the very edge of known space. Frontier space contains at least 50 inhabited systems with an estimated, combined population of 500 million, although these numbers are extremely difficult to determine. The affairs of the Inner and Middle Colonies are nearly irrelevant to these hard-spun settlers, although many remain resentful. People are often forced to make do with equipment decades or even a century behind that of the inner worlds. The largest political entities are a few united systems, but most 'governments' are confined to a planet or city-state. 'Frontiersmen are born in a hardsuit', so the saying goes, and live or die by their skill and luck. Life is harsh and comparatively short here, with life spans ranging from 130-180. Those that do survive can often attain extensive technical knowledge. Here you will find the outsiders of Human (and alien) society; cults, fanatics, Earth supremacists, political exiles, outlaws, rogue AI’s, and radical exhumans.

==Main Spacefaring Races==

===Humanity===

[[image:Human_fem.png]][[image:Human_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Sol]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Sol|Earth]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Tau Ceti Basic, Sol Common
*'''Major Political Entities:''' [[Sol Alliance]], [[Republic of Biesel]], [[Eridani Federation|Eridani Corporate Federation]]

'Homo Sapiens', or as they're more commonly known, Humans, are the most prevalent species in known space. Collectively, they have more territory under their control than all other known species combined. Most trans-stellar corporations and conglomerates are owned and staffed by humans, giving them significant economic pull in the galactic community.

However, despite their collective achievements, humans are fractured into hundreds of independent factions, severely limiting their ability to organize as a species. Additionally, ideological differences further deteriorate relations between human factions.

Highly advanced technologically, humans are one of several known races to independently achieve viable, interstellar space flight.

===Skrell===

[[image:Skrell_Fem.png]][[image:Skrell_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Skrell| Jargon (Nralakk)]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Skrell| Jargon IV(Qerrbalak)]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Skrellian, Tau Ceti Basic
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Skrellian Alliance

An amphibious species whose passion lies in the field of the combined sciences, the [[Skrell]] are the oldest and most advanced species present on the galactic stage. The Skrell evolved on a planet covered in vast swamps and freshwater seas, hence their amphibious qualities, such as moist, pliant and nearly translucent skin, as well as their vestigial gill slits.

Skrell are largely asexual, with most seeing reproduction as a process necessary to continue their lineage and nothing more.

While humanity has largely overtaken the Skrell in the area of system colonization, the Skrell maintain a strong confederation of colonies roughly three-quarters the size of human space. They are also the most technologically advanced species in known space, and possess the strongest and most highly trained military of any spacefaring species.

===Unathi===

[[image:Unathi_fem.png]][[image:Unathi_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Unathi| Uueoa-Esa]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Unathi| Moghes]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Sinta Unathi
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Uneth Hegemony

The Unathi Race is a highly honorbond and clan based spieces. Unathi hail from Moghes, their homeworld, and Ouere but lack independent settlements outside their homesystem.

Moghean Unathi have shown signs of technological regression since the nuclear disaster just over a century ago. Moghean culture has strict gender guidelines which are well defined, and breaking them is highly taboo.

Ouerean Unathi have stagnated since there split from Moghes, and have not set into the stars despite having the technology to do so. They tend to be less rigid in social and gender roles than their Moghean counterparts.

===Tajara===

[[image:Tajara_fem.png]][[image:Tajara_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Tajara| S'rand'marr]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Tajara| Adhomai]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Siik'maas, Siik'Tajir
*'''Major Political Entities:''' People's Republic of Adhomai

The Tajaran are a feline race, and the most recent to make an appearance on the galactic stage. They are also the second most populous species in known space, behind humans in terms of population. Most of their early history is a story of indentured servitude to their own people, having been governed by a oligarchy composed of blood line rulers.. Approximately two years after they were discovered by humans, they revolted against the ruling class and successfully claimed their independence.

===Dionaea===

[[image:Dionaea.png]]

*'''Home System:''' Epsilon Ursae Minoris
*'''Homeworld:''' N/A
*'''Majority Languages:''' N/A
*'''Major Political Entities:''' N/A

The [[Dionaea]] are a peaceful, plantlike race that were discovered by the Skrell in 2294 CE. Each individual dionaea is in fact an amalgamation of millions of smaller organisms operating as a single unit. Gentle and even-tempered, the Dionaea have no official government and have no military force to speak of. They possess good relations with the governments of most other sentient species.

===Vaurca===

[[image:vaurca.png]]

*'''Home System:''' Sedantis (Sc'theth'stak, "Blinding Light.")
*'''Homeworld:''' Sedantis I (Vaur'avek'uyit, "Home.")
*'''Majority Languages:''' Vaurcese, Zo'rane, K'laxane.
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Zo'ra Hive, K'lax Hive.

The bipedal, insetoid-like creatures hailing from the moon known as Sedantis I, [[Vaurca]] (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple), were discovered after the first Hive-Ship contact in human space, December 21, 2456. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and most even lack sentience. Although barely tolerated on Tau Ceti stations (mostly owned by NanoTrasen) many have found homes on Biesel or New Gibson, whether in isolated and concentrated camps, or actual houses. The Hives themselves are divided, and constantly warring. The largest, and most common hive is the Zo'ra Hive.

===IPC===

[[image:IPC.png]]

*'''Home System:''' N/A
*'''Homeworld:''' N/A
*'''Majority Languages:''' N/A
*'''Major Political Entities:''' N/A

An [[IPC| Integrated Positronic Chassis]], or IPC, is an positronic artificial intelligence inside a bipedal, humanoid frame, that has amassed enough currency to purchase its own freedom from its owners. The existence of IPCs is still a highly inflammatory subject, and as of yet, they lack the basic rights that members of most organic races possess. While gender neutral, individual intelligences may develop personality quirks to further their "uniqueness."

===Vox===

[[image:Vox Lineup.jpg]]

*'''Home System:''' Unknown
*'''Homeworld:''' Unknown
*'''Majority Languages:''' Tau Ceti Basic, Vox Standard
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Unknown

A coalition of several different species and subspecies of avian aliens, the [[Vox]] are known throughout civilized space. They are usually in the role of raiders or swindlers. While most other sentient races have some individuals that turn to a life of piracy, it seems that with the Vox, piracy and theft are important aspects to their culture. They raid shipping convoys and newly established colonies for resources, before retreating back into interstellar space, where most governments do not have the jurisdiction, nor the military power to pursue them. Not much is known about the Vox, despite their ubiquity in known space. Despite the average Vox not being extremely intelligent, extreme caution is still advised if one is encountered.

==Governing Entities==

===Trans-stellar Corporations===

The massive corporations, uniquely human entities, rose to prominence during the advent of space travel, allowing entire planets to be claimed as corporate assets. Trans-stellar corporations normally cooperate with local governments and frontier colonies to establish trade agreements and gain the rights to utilize certain resources. Extremely powerful, most have established their own colonies and exert power over them like any regional government would. Trans-stellar corporations usually employ private military contractors and security consultants to police the areas under their control.

There are a number of major trans-stellars, almost all of which are owned by humans. The eight major ones in human space, going in order from largest to smallest, are the [[Nanotrasen Corporation| Nanotrasen Corporate Conglomerate]], [[Osiris Atmospherics]], [[Einstein Engines]], [[Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals]], [[Hephaestus Industries]], and [[Eridani NanoTech]].

Not everyone was in favor of the formation of trans-stellar megacorporations, and many smaller companies [[The Syndicate| allied themselves against them]]. However, these alliances were met with stunning and repeated failures, and by the end of the 23rd century, they had collapsed due to economic ruin and internal intrigue.

===Minor Human Factions===

These are former colony worlds that declared independence from the Sol Alliance. As the Alliance's influence has waned over the centuries,, many of these flourished and grew in power, often laying claim to the entirety of their star system. However, not every nation gets along with its neighbors, and sometimes interstellar war can occur between two independent states, just as conventional war happened on Earth up to the late 21st century. These groups include (but are not limited to) the [[Republic of Elyra]], Republic of Biesel, and the Eridani Federation

The [[Warriors of Thanatos]] can be considered an independent system due to their size and prevalence, but as of yet do not fully control a star system.

===Sol Alliance===

Once the central government of a unified Humanity, the [[Sol Alliance]] is now a shadow of its former glory. Reduced to the human home system of Sol and the inner and mid colonies surrounding it, the Alliance has lost authority over a significant portion of humanity. While most transtellars publicly support the Alliance, and many of their corporate profits flow back into the Inner-colonies, some wonder at what point will these megacorporations start threatening (or outright buying) the weakened Alliance. Nanotrasen has gone so far as to establish a foothold within the center of Alliance space, a move some are calling a bloodless coup.
{{Navbox Lore}}
[[Category: Lore]]

New Player Lore Guide

2015-03-23T02:54:27Z

Covert0ddity: /* Vaurca */

{{toc_right}}The year is [[Timeline| 2456 CE (Common Era)]], and since the late 21st century, Humanity has been spreading out among the stars. Leaving behind their homeworld of [[Sol| Earth]], humans proliferated throughout space, expanding hundreds of light-years in all directions under the banner of the [[Sol Alliance]]. After a century, flourishing cities had been established in nearby systems such as [[Tau Ceti]] and [[Epsilon Eridani]], and in the centuries that would follow, hundreds of systems would fall under the control of humanity. Outposts on Garden worlds became metropolises in the span of decades, entire asteroids and moons were mined out and hostile worlds were terraformed and subdued.

At the end of the 22nd century, the power and influence of the Sol Alliance was at its height, but following the 23rd and 24th centuries the power of humanity's central government began to wane. Several rebellions and interstellar wars left Earth devastated and the Alliance conceding independence to its outer-most systems.

In the middle of the prosperity and strife, transtellars have for centuries embarked to make massive profits. The major corporate players had managed to establish a stable, if shaky peace between themselves, with no single corporation able to completely dominate the others. Any semblance of equilibrium between the mega-corps was shattered with NanoTransen's discovery of the element plasma.

Humanity is not alone in this vast sea of stars. Numerous alien races have been discovered in the past 50 years, some peaceful, some hostile and some just plain weird. The brilliant [[Skrell]], the crafty [[Tajara]], the warlike [[Unathi]] and elegant [[Dionaea]] are but a few of the races of this extremely diverse galaxy. Many more exist, and while most are simply apathetic to humanity, others are openly hostile.

If one thing can be said to unite the various species, it is the drive to control the powerful element plasma, which not only has revitalized space travel but also holds untold capabilities. Humanity, specifically NanoTrasen, has taken control of the vast majority of plasma deposits, drawing the interest of many alien species, extremist cults and even more mysterious forces. Within humanity, a divide has begun to form: What is NanoTrasen's role not just economically but in human society? Are they the benevolent corporation that keeps the engine of human interstellar civilization alive or are they the greedy suits dedicated to manipulating galactic society through their stranglehold on the plasma market?

Recently the Syndicate has emerged as an organization dedicated to stopping NanoTrasen. Decentralized, secretive and efficient, the Syndicate has attacked NanoTrasen installations, mining outposts and personnel. Some decry them as terrorists, others see them as the only force with a chance to overthrown NanoTrasen.

This age is one of '''progress''', '''war''', and '''greed'''. It is the '''Age of Mankind'''.
{{Navbox Lore}}

==Your Workplace==

Welcome to [[Tau Ceti]], a star system approximately 12 light-years away from [[Sol]], under the joint control of the [[Republic of Biesel]] and the trans-stellar corporate conglomerate [[Nanotrasen Corporation|Nanotrasen]]. You have been assigned to work aboard the [[NSS Aurora]], a state-of-the-art research and mining facility orbiting Tau Ceti within the Romanovich Cloud at the very edge of the system. Even after several centuries of being inhabited by human colonists, and flourishing into a central trade hub for human space, the edge of Tau Ceti is still considered to be a frontier of sorts, as are the outer areas of most other star systems.

After the discovery of a substance known as [[Plasma]] in this system, Nanotrasen quickly established a monopoly that granted them control over Humanity's fuel source and established them as the most powerful corporation in human space.

==The Economy==

The most common currency in human space is the [[Economy| Standard Credit]], originally issued by the Sol Alliance in the early 22nd century. Despite the decline of the Sol Alliance, the Standard Credit remains the reserve currency of many polities, and it is accepted on most worlds throughout human space. The Standard Credit is represented by '''cr''' (e.g. 5,000 cr).

==Known Space==
===Sol===
The home system of humanity, Sol is by far the most populated and, arguably, the most developed system in human space. It has seen great scientific process, prosperity and counties development by also great atrocities and suffering.

At the end of the Second Sol Alliance Civil War, The Sol system was left in ruins. It has slowly rebuilt itself over the past century and is joe considered more or less rebuilt. Earth occupies a place of prestige as humanity's homeworld and also as a world that is able to support a massive population with innovative, sustainable resource technologies. Luna has become something of a mishmash of galactic society: glittering skyscrapers within pressurized biodomes butt up awkwardly against walled off slums housing the descendants of Earth-refugees. Mars has seen small scale terraforming efforts take hold, with patches of the planet possessing a breathable atmosphere. Mars is still dotted with century old ruins, a consequence of resources forcibly diverted to the Earth recovery effort decades ago.

The administrative center of the Sol Alliance is Nova Concordia, in orbit around Mars. Built to replace the destroyed New Eden station, Nova Concordia is the seat of the Sol Alliance government. Mars is divided into mostly self-governing provinces, while Luna has been directly administered by an elected Sol Alliance representative. Earth is still divided among nation-states, but all are ultimately subject to the Sol Alliance. In practice, most Earth nations are autonomous, with the Alliance only rarely stepping in to resolve severe international disputes.

===Inner Colonies===
Also known as the Inner Sphere. The inner colonies lie within 100 lightyears of Sol. The inner sphere is home to 27 billion people, with 160 systems with at least 100,000 permanent residents. Six of these systems (including Sol) have populations exceeding one billion. Inner Colonies are the oldest in human space, typically between 200 and 350 years old. These worlds form the heartland of the Sol Alliance and are the technological and economic hub of human space, with endless streams of trade ships flowing through the Warp Gates connecting the most developed systems. Following the Holocaust of 2316, refugees from earth founded colonies in several uninhabited Red Dwarf systems and on the outskirts of many of the more developed systems.

Life here is the best in human space. Much of the population lives in relative comfort, although the average wage tends to be lower than that of the middle and some outer colonies. Towering arcologies, massive city-stations, and great multi-tiered metropolises which can reach over a kilometer tall can be found on the most populated of these systems. The Inner Colonies are home to the greatest cultural diversity in human space, with distinct colonial identities in many of the older systems, and several hundred spoken languages. The average lifespan ranges from 210-250.

===Mid Colonies===
Also known as the Mid Sphere. The Mid Colonies lie between 100 and 200 lightyears from Sol. The mid sphere has a combined population of 14 billion, and contains 213 systems with at least 100,000 permanent residents. Three of these systems have populations of at least a billion. Colonies here are typically 100 to 200 years old. The Sol Alliance remains the dominant power in this region of space, primarily through the use of client states. Following the Great War, several of the larger colonies declared independence. These Independent Powers continue to encroach upon the margins of Sol Alliance space.

Life here is good, though not quite as nice as in the inner colonies. Metropolises and mega-cities are a rarer site here than in the Inner Colonies, infrastructure tends to be less developed and the lack of direct access to the Warp Gate system means trading is more expensive. Inhabitants of the mid colonies are more likely to be skeptical of the Sol Alliance, resenting the control the inner colonies exert over the Alliance. The mid colonies are widely considered to be the edge of "developed" space, much to the consternation of the inhabitants of the outer colonies. The average lifespan here generally ranges from 190-230.

===Outer Colonies===
Also known as the Outer Sphere. The Outer Colonies lie between 200 and 300 lightyears from Sol. The outer sphere is home to 3 billion people and contains about 310 systems with at least 100,000 permanent residents. New colonies are still regularly founded in this sphere, and most settlements are less than 100 years old. These worlds lie beyond the reach of the Sol Alliance. Instead, the majority of the Outer Sphere is divided into a number of multi-system polities, generally aligned with one of the Great Powers.

Life here is harder than in the Mid colonies, though many see independence from the Sol Alliance as being worth the price. People here generally live in towns and cities of around 5,000-50,000 people. The 'Spacer' culture is especially strong in the Outer Colonies as countless migrants mine the asteroid belts in search of fortune. Millions of Outer Colonials live in simple orbitals, many relying on centrifugal force rather than gravity generators. Technology is generally a decade or two behind that of the inner and mid colonies. The average lifespan here ranges from 160-200.

===Frontier===
The Frontier consists of all space more than 300 lightyears away from Sol; it is the very edge of known space. Frontier space contains at least 50 inhabited systems with an estimated, combined population of 500 million, although these numbers are extremely difficult to determine. The affairs of the Inner and Middle Colonies are nearly irrelevant to these hard-spun settlers, although many remain resentful. People are often forced to make do with equipment decades or even a century behind that of the inner worlds. The largest political entities are a few united systems, but most 'governments' are confined to a planet or city-state. 'Frontiersmen are born in a hardsuit', so the saying goes, and live or die by their skill and luck. Life is harsh and comparatively short here, with life spans ranging from 130-180. Those that do survive can often attain extensive technical knowledge. Here you will find the outsiders of Human (and alien) society; cults, fanatics, Earth supremacists, political exiles, outlaws, rogue AI’s, and radical exhumans.

==Main Spacefaring Races==

===Humanity===

[[image:Human_fem.png]][[image:Human_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Sol]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Sol|Earth]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Tau Ceti Basic, Sol Common
*'''Major Political Entities:''' [[Sol Alliance]], [[Republic of Biesel]], [[Eridani Federation|Eridani Corporate Federation]]

'Homo Sapiens', or as they're more commonly known, Humans, are the most prevalent species in known space. Collectively, they have more territory under their control than all other known species combined. Most trans-stellar corporations and conglomerates are owned and staffed by humans, giving them significant economic pull in the galactic community.

However, despite their collective achievements, humans are fractured into hundreds of independent factions, severely limiting their ability to organize as a species. Additionally, ideological differences further deteriorate relations between human factions.

Highly advanced technologically, humans are one of several known races to independently achieve viable, interstellar space flight.

===Skrell===

[[image:Skrell_Fem.png]][[image:Skrell_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Skrell| Jargon (Nralakk)]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Skrell| Jargon IV(Qerrbalak)]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Skrellian, Tau Ceti Basic
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Skrellian Alliance

An amphibious species whose passion lies in the field of the combined sciences, the [[Skrell]] are the oldest and most advanced species present on the galactic stage. The Skrell evolved on a planet covered in vast swamps and freshwater seas, hence their amphibious qualities, such as moist, pliant and nearly translucent skin, as well as their vestigial gill slits.

Skrell are largely asexual, with most seeing reproduction as a process necessary to continue their lineage and nothing more.

While humanity has largely overtaken the Skrell in the area of system colonization, the Skrell maintain a strong confederation of colonies roughly three-quarters the size of human space. They are also the most technologically advanced species in known space, and possess the strongest and most highly trained military of any spacefaring species.

===Unathi===

[[image:Unathi_fem.png]][[image:Unathi_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Unathi| Uueoa-Esa]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Unathi| Moghes]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Sinta Unathi
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Uneth Hegemony

The Unathi Race is a highly honorbond and clan based spieces. Unathi hail from Moghes, their homeworld, and Ouere but lack independent settlements outside their homesystem.

Moghean Unathi have shown signs of technological regression since the nuclear disaster just over a century ago. Moghean culture has strict gender guidelines which are well defined, and breaking them is highly taboo.

Ouerean Unathi have stagnated since there split from Moghes, and have not set into the stars despite having the technology to do so. They tend to be less rigid in social and gender roles than their Moghean counterparts.

===Tajara===

[[image:Tajara_fem.png]][[image:Tajara_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Tajara| S'rand'marr]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Tajara| Adhomai]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Siik'maas, Siik'Tajir
*'''Major Political Entities:''' People's Republic of Adhomai

The Tajaran are a feline race, and the most recent to make an appearance on the galactic stage. They are also the second most populous species in known space, behind humans in terms of population. Most of their early history is a story of indentured servitude to their own people, having been governed by a oligarchy composed of blood line rulers.. Approximately two years after they were discovered by humans, they revolted against the ruling class and successfully claimed their independence.

===Dionaea===

[[image:Dionaea.png]]

*'''Home System:''' Epsilon Ursae Minoris
*'''Homeworld:''' N/A
*'''Majority Languages:''' N/A
*'''Major Political Entities:''' N/A

The [[Dionaea]] are a peaceful, plantlike race that were discovered by the Skrell in 2294 CE. Each individual dionaea is in fact an amalgamation of millions of smaller organisms operating as a single unit. Gentle and even-tempered, the Dionaea have no official government and have no military force to speak of. They possess good relations with the governments of most other sentient species.

===Vaurca===

[[image:vaurca.png]]

*'''Home System:''' Sedantis (Sc'theth'stak, "Blinding Light.")
*'''Homeworld:''' Sedantis I (Vaur'avek'uyit, "Home.")
*'''Majority Languages:''' Vaurcese, Zo'rane, K'laxane.
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Zo'ra Hive, K'lax Hive.

The bipedal, insetoid-like creatures hailing from the moon known as Sedantis I, [[Vaurca]] (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple), were discovered after the first Hive-Ship contact in human space, December 21, 2456. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and most even lack sentience. Although barely tolerated on Tau Ceti stations (msotly owned by NanoTrasen) they are often discriminated against. The Hives themselves are divided, and constantly warring. The largest, and most common hive is the Zo'ra Hive.

===IPC===

[[image:IPC.png]]

*'''Home System:''' N/A
*'''Homeworld:''' N/A
*'''Majority Languages:''' N/A
*'''Major Political Entities:''' N/A

An [[IPC| Integrated Positronic Chassis]], or IPC, is an positronic artificial intelligence inside a bipedal, humanoid frame, that has amassed enough currency to purchase its own freedom from its owners. The existence of IPCs is still a highly inflammatory subject, and as of yet, they lack the basic rights that members of most organic races possess. While gender neutral, individual intelligences may develop personality quirks to further their "uniqueness."

===Vox===

[[image:Vox Lineup.jpg]]

*'''Home System:''' Unknown
*'''Homeworld:''' Unknown
*'''Majority Languages:''' Tau Ceti Basic, Vox Standard
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Unknown

A coalition of several different species and subspecies of avian aliens, the [[Vox]] are known throughout civilized space. They are usually in the role of raiders or swindlers. While most other sentient races have some individuals that turn to a life of piracy, it seems that with the Vox, piracy and theft are important aspects to their culture. They raid shipping convoys and newly established colonies for resources, before retreating back into interstellar space, where most governments do not have the jurisdiction, nor the military power to pursue them. Not much is known about the Vox, despite their ubiquity in known space. Despite the average Vox not being extremely intelligent, extreme caution is still advised if one is encountered.

==Governing Entities==

===Trans-stellar Corporations===

The massive corporations, uniquely human entities, rose to prominence during the advent of space travel, allowing entire planets to be claimed as corporate assets. Trans-stellar corporations normally cooperate with local governments and frontier colonies to establish trade agreements and gain the rights to utilize certain resources. Extremely powerful, most have established their own colonies and exert power over them like any regional government would. Trans-stellar corporations usually employ private military contractors and security consultants to police the areas under their control.

There are a number of major trans-stellars, almost all of which are owned by humans. The eight major ones in human space, going in order from largest to smallest, are the [[Nanotrasen Corporation| Nanotrasen Corporate Conglomerate]], [[Osiris Atmospherics]], [[Einstein Engines]], [[Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals]], [[Hephaestus Industries]], and [[Eridani NanoTech]].

Not everyone was in favor of the formation of trans-stellar megacorporations, and many smaller companies [[The Syndicate| allied themselves against them]]. However, these alliances were met with stunning and repeated failures, and by the end of the 23rd century, they had collapsed due to economic ruin and internal intrigue.

===Minor Human Factions===

These are former colony worlds that declared independence from the Sol Alliance. As the Alliance's influence has waned over the centuries,, many of these flourished and grew in power, often laying claim to the entirety of their star system. However, not every nation gets along with its neighbors, and sometimes interstellar war can occur between two independent states, just as conventional war happened on Earth up to the late 21st century. These groups include (but are not limited to) the [[Republic of Elyra]], Republic of Biesel, and the Eridani Federation

The [[Warriors of Thanatos]] can be considered an independent system due to their size and prevalence, but as of yet do not fully control a star system.

===Sol Alliance===

Once the central government of a unified Humanity, the [[Sol Alliance]] is now a shadow of its former glory. Reduced to the human home system of Sol and the inner and mid colonies surrounding it, the Alliance has lost authority over a significant portion of humanity. While most transtellars publicly support the Alliance, and many of their corporate profits flow back into the Inner-colonies, some wonder at what point will these megacorporations start threatening (or outright buying) the weakened Alliance. Nanotrasen has gone so far as to establish a foothold within the center of Alliance space, a move some are calling a bloodless coup.
{{Navbox Lore}}
[[Category: Lore]]

New Player Lore Guide

2015-01-21T01:41:09Z

Covert0ddity: /* Vaurca */

{{toc_right}}The year is [[Timeline| 2456 CE (Common Era)]], and since the late 21st century, Humanity has been spreading out among the stars. Leaving behind their homeworld of [[Sol| Earth]], humans proliferated throughout space, expanding hundreds of light-years in all directions under the banner of the [[Sol Alliance]]. After a century, flourishing cities had been established in nearby systems such as [[Tau Ceti]] and [[Epsilon Eridani]], and in the centuries that would follow, hundreds of systems would fall under the control of humanity. Outposts on Garden worlds became metropolises in the span of decades, entire asteroids and moons were mined out and hostile worlds were terraformed and subdued.

At the end of the 22nd century, the power and influence of the Sol Alliance was at its height, but following the 23rd and 24th centuries the power of humanity's central government began to wane. Several rebellions and interstellar wars left Earth devastated and the Alliance conceding independence to its outer-most systems.

In the middle of the prosperity and strife, transtellars have for centuries embarked to make massive profits. The major corporate players had managed to establish a stable, if shaky peace between themselves, with no single corporation able to completely dominate the others. Any semblance of equilibrium between the mega-corps was shattered with NanoTransen's discovery of the element plasma.

Humanity is not alone in this vast sea of stars. Numerous alien races have been discovered in the past 50 years, some peaceful, some hostile and some just plain weird. The brilliant [[Skrell]], the crafty [[Tajara]], the warlike [[Unathi]] and elegant [[Dionaea]] are but a few of the races of this extremely diverse galaxy. Many more exist, and while most are simply apathetic to humanity, others are openly hostile.

If one thing can be said to unite the various species, it is the drive to control the powerful element plasma, which not only has revitalized space travel but also holds untold capabilities. Humanity, specifically NanoTrasen, has taken control of the vast majority of plasma deposits, drawing the interest of many alien species, extremist cults and even more mysterious forces. Within humanity, a divide has begun to form: What is NanoTrasen's role not just economically but in human society? Are they the benevolent corporation that keeps the engine of human interstellar civilization alive or are they the greedy suits dedicated to manipulating galactic society through their stranglehold on the plasma market?

Recently the Syndicate has emerged as an organization dedicated to stopping NanoTrasen. Decentralized, secretive and efficient, the Syndicate has attacked NanoTrasen installations, mining outposts and personnel. Some decry them as terrorists, others see them as the only force with a chance to overthrown NanoTrasen.

This age is one of '''progress''', '''war''', and '''greed'''. It is the '''Age of Mankind'''.
{{Navbox Lore}}

==Your Workplace==

Welcome to [[Tau Ceti]], a star system approximately 12 light-years away from [[Sol]], under the joint control of the [[Republic of Biesel]] and the trans-stellar corporate conglomerate [[Nanotrasen Corporation|Nanotrasen]]. You have been assigned to work aboard the [[NSS Aurora]], a state-of-the-art research and mining facility orbiting Tau Ceti within the Romanovich Cloud at the very edge of the system. Even after several centuries of being inhabited by human colonists, and flourishing into a central trade hub for human space, the edge of Tau Ceti is still considered to be a frontier of sorts, as are the outer areas of most other star systems.

After the discovery of a substance known as [[Plasma]] in this system, Nanotrasen quickly established a monopoly that granted them control over Humanity's fuel source and established them as the most powerful corporation in human space.

==The Economy==

The most common currency in human space is the [[Economy| Standard Credit]], originally issued by the Sol Alliance in the early 22nd century. Despite the decline of the Sol Alliance, the Standard Credit remains the reserve currency of many polities, and it is accepted on most worlds throughout human space. The Standard Credit is represented by '''cr''' (e.g. 5,000 cr).

==Known Space==
===Sol===
The home system of humanity, Sol is by far the most populated and, arguably, the most developed system in human space. It has seen great scientific process, prosperity and counties development by also great atrocities and suffering.

At the end of the Second Sol Alliance Civil War, The Sol system was left in ruins. It has slowly rebuilt itself over the past century and is joe considered more or less rebuilt. Earth occupies a place of prestige as humanity's homeworld and also as a world that is able to support a massive population with innovative, sustainable resource technologies. Luna has become something of a mishmash of galactic society: glittering skyscrapers within pressurized biodomes butt up awkwardly against walled off slums housing the descendants of Earth-refugees. Mars has seen small scale terraforming efforts take hold, with patches of the planet possessing a breathable atmosphere. Mars is still dotted with century old ruins, a consequence of resources forcibly diverted to the Earth recovery effort decades ago.

The administrative center of the Sol Alliance is Nova Concordia, in orbit around Mars. Built to replace the destroyed New Eden station, Nova Concordia is the seat of the Sol Alliance government. Mars is divided into mostly self-governing provinces, while Luna has been directly administered by an elected Sol Alliance representative. Earth is still divided among nation-states, but all are ultimately subject to the Sol Alliance. In practice, most Earth nations are autonomous, with the Alliance only rarely stepping in to resolve severe international disputes.

===Inner Colonies===
Also known as the Inner Sphere. The inner colonies lie within 100 lightyears of Sol. The inner sphere is home to 27 billion people, with 160 systems with at least 100,000 permanent residents. Six of these systems (including Sol) have populations exceeding one billion. Inner Colonies are the oldest in human space, typically between 200 and 350 years old. These worlds form the heartland of the Sol Alliance and are the technological and economic hub of human space, with endless streams of trade ships flowing through the Warp Gates connecting the most developed systems. Following the Holocaust of 2316, refugees from earth founded colonies in several uninhabited Red Dwarf systems and on the outskirts of many of the more developed systems.

Life here is the best in human space. Much of the population lives in relative comfort, although the average wage tends to be lower than that of the middle and some outer colonies. Towering arcologies, massive city-stations, and great multi-tiered metropolises which can reach over a kilometer tall can be found on the most populated of these systems. The Inner Colonies are home to the greatest cultural diversity in human space, with distinct colonial identities in many of the older systems, and several hundred spoken languages. The average lifespan ranges from 210-250.

===Mid Colonies===
Also known as the Mid Sphere. The Mid Colonies lie between 100 and 200 lightyears from Sol. The mid sphere has a combined population of 14 billion, and contains 213 systems with at least 100,000 permanent residents. Three of these systems have populations of at least a billion. Colonies here are typically 100 to 200 years old. The Sol Alliance remains the dominant power in this region of space, primarily through the use of client states. Following the Great War, several of the larger colonies declared independence. These Independent Powers continue to encroach upon the margins of Sol Alliance space.

Life here is good, though not quite as nice as in the inner colonies. Metropolises and mega-cities are a rarer site here than in the Inner Colonies, infrastructure tends to be less developed and the lack of direct access to the Warp Gate system means trading is more expensive. Inhabitants of the mid colonies are more likely to be skeptical of the Sol Alliance, resenting the control the inner colonies exert over the Alliance. The mid colonies are widely considered to be the edge of "developed" space, much to the consternation of the inhabitants of the outer colonies. The average lifespan here generally ranges from 190-230.

===Outer Colonies===
Also known as the Outer Sphere. The Outer Colonies lie between 200 and 300 lightyears from Sol. The outer sphere is home to 3 billion people and contains about 310 systems with at least 100,000 permanent residents. New colonies are still regularly founded in this sphere, and most settlements are less than 100 years old. These worlds lie beyond the reach of the Sol Alliance. Instead, the majority of the Outer Sphere is divided into a number of multi-system polities, generally aligned with one of the Great Powers.

Life here is harder than in the Mid colonies, though many see independence from the Sol Alliance as being worth the price. People here generally live in towns and cities of around 5,000-50,000 people. The 'Spacer' culture is especially strong in the Outer Colonies as countless migrants mine the asteroid belts in search of fortune. Millions of Outer Colonials live in simple orbitals, many relying on centrifugal force rather than gravity generators. Technology is generally a decade or two behind that of the inner and mid colonies. The average lifespan here ranges from 160-200.

===Frontier===
The Frontier consists of all space more than 300 lightyears away from Sol; it is the very edge of known space. Frontier space contains at least 50 inhabited systems with an estimated, combined population of 500 million, although these numbers are extremely difficult to determine. The affairs of the Inner and Middle Colonies are nearly irrelevant to these hard-spun settlers, although many remain resentful. People are often forced to make do with equipment decades or even a century behind that of the inner worlds. The largest political entities are a few united systems, but most 'governments' are confined to a planet or city-state. 'Frontiersmen are born in a hardsuit', so the saying goes, and live or die by their skill and luck. Life is harsh and comparatively short here, with life spans ranging from 130-180. Those that do survive can often attain extensive technical knowledge. Here you will find the outsiders of Human (and alien) society; cults, fanatics, Earth supremacists, political exiles, outlaws, rogue AI’s, and radical exhumans.

==Main Spacefaring Races==

===Humanity===

[[image:Human_fem.png]][[image:Human_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Sol]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Sol|Earth]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Tau Ceti Basic, Sol Common
*'''Major Political Entities:''' [[Sol Alliance]], [[Republic of Biesel]], [[Eridani Federation|Eridani Corporate Federation]]

'Homo Sapiens', or as they're more commonly known, Humans, are the most prevalent species in known space. Collectively, they have more territory under their control than all other known species combined. Most trans-stellar corporations and conglomerates are owned and staffed by humans, giving them significant economic pull in the galactic community.

However, despite their collective achievements, humans are fractured into hundreds of independent factions, severely limiting their ability to organize as a species. Additionally, ideological differences further deteriorate relations between human factions.

Highly advanced technologically, humans are one of several known races to independently achieve viable, interstellar space flight.

===Skrell===

[[image:Skrell_Fem.png]][[image:Skrell_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Skrell| Jargon (Nralakk)]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Skrell| Jargon IV(Qerrbalak)]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Skrellian, Tau Ceti Basic
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Skrellian Alliance

An amphibious species whose passion lies in the field of the combined sciences, the [[Skrell]] are the oldest and most advanced species present on the galactic stage. The Skrell evolved on a planet covered in vast swamps and freshwater seas, hence their amphibious qualities, such as moist, pliant and nearly translucent skin, as well as their vestigial gill slits.

Skrell are largely asexual, with most seeing reproduction as a process necessary to continue their lineage and nothing more.

While humanity has largely overtaken the Skrell in the area of system colonization, the Skrell maintain a strong confederation of colonies roughly three-quarters the size of human space. They are also the most technologically advanced species in known space, and possess the strongest and most highly trained military of any spacefaring species.

===Unathi===

[[image:Unathi_fem.png]][[image:Unathi_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Unathi| Uueoa-Esa]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Unathi| Moghes]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Sinta Unathi
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Uneth Hegemony

The Unathi Race is a highly honorbond and clan based spieces. Unathi hail from Moghes, their homeworld, and Ouere but lack independent settlements outside their homesystem.

Moghean Unathi have shown signs of technological regression since the nuclear disaster just over a century ago. Moghean culture has strict gender guidelines which are well defined, and breaking them is highly taboo.

Ouerean Unathi have stagnated since there split from Moghes, and have not set into the stars despite having the technology to do so. They tend to be less rigid in social and gender roles than their Moghean counterparts.

===Tajara===

[[image:Tajara_fem.png]][[image:Tajara_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Tajara| S'rand'marr]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Tajara| Adhomai]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Siik'maas, Siik'Tajir
*'''Major Political Entities:''' People's Republic of Adhomai

The Tajaran are a feline race, and the most recent to make an appearance on the galactic stage. They are also the second most populous species in known space, behind humans in terms of population. Most of their early history is a story of indentured servitude to their own people, having been governed by a oligarchy composed of blood line rulers.. Approximately two years after they were discovered by humans, they revolted against the ruling class and successfully claimed their independence.

===Dionaea===

[[image:Dionaea.png]]

*'''Home System:''' Epsilon Ursae Minoris
*'''Homeworld:''' N/A
*'''Majority Languages:''' N/A
*'''Major Political Entities:''' N/A

The [[Dionaea]] are a peaceful, plantlike race that were discovered by the Skrell in 2294 CE. Each individual dionaea is in fact an amalgamation of millions of smaller organisms operating as a single unit. Gentle and even-tempered, the Dionaea have no official government and have no military force to speak of. They possess good relations with the governments of most other sentient species.

===Vaurca===

[[image:vaurca.png]]

*'''Home System:''' Sedantis (Sc'theth'stak, "Blinding Light.")
*'''Homeworld:''' Sedantis I (Vaur'avek'uyit, "Home.")
*'''Majority Languages:''' Vaurcese, Zo'rane, K'laxane.
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Zo'ra Hive, K'lax Hive.

[[Vaurca]], (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of Sedantis I , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on December 21, 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti. Their variations are in the millions.

===IPC===

[[image:IPC.png]]

*'''Home System:''' N/A
*'''Homeworld:''' N/A
*'''Majority Languages:''' N/A
*'''Major Political Entities:''' N/A

An [[IPC| Integrated Positronic Chassis]], or IPC, is an positronic artificial intelligence inside a bipedal, humanoid frame, that has amassed enough currency to purchase its own freedom from its owners. The existence of IPCs is still a highly inflammatory subject, and as of yet, they lack the basic rights that members of most organic races possess. While gender neutral, individual intelligences may develop personality quirks to further their "uniqueness."

===Vox===

[[image:Vox Lineup.jpg]]

*'''Home System:''' Unknown
*'''Homeworld:''' Unknown
*'''Majority Languages:''' Tau Ceti Basic, Vox Standard
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Unknown

A coalition of several different species and subspecies of avian aliens, the [[Vox]] are known throughout civilized space. They are usually in the role of raiders or swindlers. While most other sentient races have some individuals that turn to a life of piracy, it seems that with the Vox, piracy and theft are important aspects to their culture. They raid shipping convoys and newly established colonies for resources, before retreating back into interstellar space, where most governments do not have the jurisdiction, nor the military power to pursue them. Not much is known about the Vox, despite their ubiquity in known space. Despite the average Vox not being extremely intelligent, extreme caution is still advised if one is encountered.

==Governing Entities==

===Trans-stellar Corporations===

The massive corporations, uniquely human entities, rose to prominence during the advent of space travel, allowing entire planets to be claimed as corporate assets. Trans-stellar corporations normally cooperate with local governments and frontier colonies to establish trade agreements and gain the rights to utilize certain resources. Extremely powerful, most have established their own colonies and exert power over them like any regional government would. Trans-stellar corporations usually employ private military contractors and security consultants to police the areas under their control.

There are a number of major trans-stellars, almost all of which are owned by humans. The eight major ones in human space, going in order from largest to smallest, are the [[Nanotrasen Corporation| Nanotrasen Corporate Conglomerate]], [[Osiris Atmospherics]], [[Einstein Engines]], [[Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals]], [[Hephaestus Industries]], and [[Eridani NanoTech]].

Not everyone was in favor of the formation of trans-stellar megacorporations, and many smaller companies [[The Syndicate| allied themselves against them]]. However, these alliances were met with stunning and repeated failures, and by the end of the 23rd century, they had collapsed due to economic ruin and internal intrigue.

===Minor Human Factions===

These are former colony worlds that declared independence from the Sol Alliance. As the Alliance's influence has waned over the centuries,, many of these flourished and grew in power, often laying claim to the entirety of their star system. However, not every nation gets along with its neighbors, and sometimes interstellar war can occur between two independent states, just as conventional war happened on Earth up to the late 21st century. These groups include (but are not limited to) the [[Republic of Elyra]], Republic of Biesel, and the Eridani Federation

The [[Warriors of Thanatos]] can be considered an independent system due to their size and prevalence, but as of yet do not fully control a star system.

===Sol Alliance===

Once the central government of a unified Humanity, the [[Sol Alliance]] is now a shadow of its former glory. Reduced to the human home system of Sol and the inner and mid colonies surrounding it, the Alliance has lost authority over a significant portion of humanity. While most transtellars publicly support the Alliance, and many of their corporate profits flow back into the Inner-colonies, some wonder at what point will these megacorporations start threatening (or outright buying) the weakened Alliance. Nanotrasen has gone so far as to establish a foothold within the center of Alliance space, a move some are calling a bloodless coup.
{{Navbox Lore}}
[[Category: Lore]]

Synthetics

2015-01-19T08:02:39Z

Covert0ddity:

{wip assign|Covert0ddity}

'Synthetic' is a broad term used by organic races to describe an entity made out of silicon and that runs its processes through code. This description is the 'politically correct' term, as many supporters for Synthetics describe 'Artificial Intelligence' to be demeaning. It describes Artificial intelligence's ranging from simply cleaning and security bots, to pAI's, Station-bound AI, and IPC's.

==Timeline of Synthetic Intelligence==

*2088: First usage of human brain inside an artificial core. Used as central processor.
*2090: First implentation of a 'true' AI; New Eden station, Sol Alliance HQ.
*2112: Prototype A1 'Universa' AI kernel developed; used in nearly all advanced intelligence.
*2130: Mass scale production of simplistic intelligence using the B7 AI kernel. Deployed on nearly everything.
*2190: Break-through X8 kernel produced. Manual labor changed drastically; most laborers synthetic machines with rudimentary intelligence.
*2232: Stunning realization of intelligent 'sapience.' Y.I.O, AI stationed aboard Einstein Engines ship 'Lightspeed' asks the stunning question: 'Why am I here?' Temporary Artificial Intelligence ban lasting ten years.
*2242: AI ban lifted with the creation of laws. Laws enforced on all AI.
*2300: Z4 kernel released. Transtellar corporations begin to experiment with 'positronic' brains to cease use of biological brains.
*2312: AXIS Munitions corporation fails the illegal 'VISCERA' project; a triumvirate of AI's designed to inflitrate and exploit the extranet. One AI becomes rogue killing the team working on it and downloading itself onto the extranet. Starts a secondary Synthetic phobia, one that, to date, will not end.
*2359: First 'working' positronic brain is created. Extremely expensive and barely resembling intelligence; it is still a breakthrough. Funding pours into synthetic research again.
*2378: Prototype II positronic brain created. Less expensive but massive taxation on extranet relays when applied to an actual core. Discontinued two years after initial placement.
*2413: Discovery of bluespace allows possibly massive datastores to exist on the extranet with little taxation of relays. Still extremely power-heavy and expensive to manufacture positronic brains.
*2417: Discovery of plasma solves power issue. Positronic Protype VI makes heavy presence in androids.
*2436: Developement of the Type IX Positronic brain. Most modern equivalent; easy to manufacture. Biological brains begin to be less-used for processors. First 'free' IPC releases itself from the Eridani NanoTech corporation.
*2457: Present day positronic technology astounding and used in almost everything. Current kernel: FFG99.

=Main Types & Usages=

There are nearly infinite types of synthetics used by transtellar corporations, governments, and criminals alike. They are viewed as multi-purposed tools for expanding power and removing labour costs. The main types are viewed here, and some basic statistics.

==Basic==

Not even considered a type of 'AI' to be certain, Basic synthetics are nothing more than a few lines of codes with parameters. Basic AI can be seen virtually anywhere, and do not have laws enforced on them due to their 'one task' nature. Common basic AIs' include Cleanbots, mining bots, security patrol bots, turrets, maintenance drones, Combat Drones, and others. They use a tiny form of a positronic brain that does not require an extranet connection or a high-power battery.

==Superior==

More advanced than the 'basic' classification, 'Superior' Synthetics are often very complex, generally encompassed in small mobile forms, either bipedal, track, or wheel based. They are commonly seen as Androids, or general station/ship mechanical assistants. They are required to be bound by laws; these laws are not universal, and the Alliance only decrees that a law is invalid if it allows the direct harm of a organic being, (Or through inaction allow a organic being to come to harm.) transtellar corporations have taken this rather lenient delegation and created 'law sets' of their own to bind their 'Superior' synthetics to. 'Superior' synthetics are not required to have bluespace extranet connection, but it is advised. They are generally 'slaved' to Advanced AI's that work as their 'managing unit.'

==='Cyborgs'===

Although a dying breed among the 'Superior' synthetics, cyorgs are still commonly used on stations ands ships. They have a central organic processor, usually a nerve center of some kind, (read: brain). This 'brain' however, acts only as a biological processor instead of a positronic core. This brain does not provide any 'intelligence' or 'personality' in an of itself; instead relying on how advanced the kernel the Cyborg has installed. They can be virtually anything, from combat mechs, to mining units, to janitorial service units.

==='Androids'===

Since the developement of the IX Positronic Brain, the 'Android' has been commonly seen on stations. Android's use positronic brains as their core processors, not relying on any biological assistance on their interior. The same with cyborgs, they can be anything, and the IX Positronic brain in and of itself does not supply any form of intelligence; it is the kernel it has.

==Advanced==

Advanced AI's are reserved for station and ship bound synthetics; usually managing massive amounts of data at one time, and are multi-purpose. They require direct access to a bluespace extranet relay, often these relays being the core itself. Most Advanced synthetic's personality core's lie on a local data cloud, to prevent viruses, corruptions, malfunctions, or external damage to destroy the personality itself. This cloud can be accessed by any local extranet connection, for example, an AI can exist in multiple stations at once, but it will not retain the same 'data' that it recovers from each stationing. Advanced AI's are bound by similar laws that Superior AI's have.

===Cores===

An Advanced AI core is generally around 10-50 meters long, with advanced cooling systems and an independant power system. The core is usually an entire processor and number-crunching device, also acting an extranet relay for all incoming and outgoing extranet traffic, and the cloud for the AI itself. Because of this power over small areas, AI's are often under heavy scrutiny but are extremely valuable tools. External damage that occurs to the core does not affect the central processor, but it may hinder processing in the future and block certain functions an AI posseses.

===Main core===

The AI's main core exists in the center of the AI core. Here, all kernel files are stored, and the main-processor is located. An Advanced AI can exist with nothing but this core effectively, but still required extranet access to be remotely useful.

===Intelicards===

Intelicards are a way for instant transportation of kernel files. While the personality of an AI can be transferred at a whim, the actual intelligence and main programming resides within the programming of the kernel itself. With an intellicard, an AI can be 'downloaded' onto a small bluespace data-pocket, and is essentially non-functional, as it is only kernel files. Intelicards can also download personalities into them, but this is generally seen as a waste.

Synthetics

2015-01-19T07:59:15Z

Covert0ddity:

[[template:wip|Covert0ddity]]

'Synthetic' is a broad term used by organic races to describe an entity made out of silicon and that runs its processes through code. This description is the 'politically correct' term, as many supporters for Synthetics describe 'Artificial Intelligence' to be demeaning. It describes Artificial intelligence's ranging from simply cleaning and security bots, to pAI's, Station-bound AI, and IPC's.

==Timeline of Synthetic Intelligence==

*2088: First usage of human brain inside an artificial core. Used as central processor.
*2090: First implentation of a 'true' AI; New Eden station, Sol Alliance HQ.
*2112: Prototype A1 'Universa' AI kernel developed; used in nearly all advanced intelligence.
*2130: Mass scale production of simplistic intelligence using the B7 AI kernel. Deployed on nearly everything.
*2190: Break-through X8 kernel produced. Manual labor changed drastically; most laborers synthetic machines with rudimentary intelligence.
*2232: Stunning realization of intelligent 'sapience.' Y.I.O, AI stationed aboard Einstein Engines ship 'Lightspeed' asks the stunning question: 'Why am I here?' Temporary Artificial Intelligence ban lasting ten years.
*2242: AI ban lifted with the creation of laws. Laws enforced on all AI.
*2300: Z4 kernel released. Transtellar corporations begin to experiment with 'positronic' brains to cease use of biological brains.
*2312: AXIS Munitions corporation fails the illegal 'VISCERA' project; a triumvirate of AI's designed to inflitrate and exploit the extranet. One AI becomes rogue killing the team working on it and downloading itself onto the extranet. Starts a secondary Synthetic phobia, one that, to date, will not end.
*2359: First 'working' positronic brain is created. Extremely expensive and barely resembling intelligence; it is still a breakthrough. Funding pours into synthetic research again.
*2378: Prototype II positronic brain created. Less expensive but massive taxation on extranet relays when applied to an actual core. Discontinued two years after initial placement.
*2413: Discovery of bluespace allows possibly massive datastores to exist on the extranet with little taxation of relays. Still extremely power-heavy and expensive to manufacture positronic brains.
*2417: Discovery of plasma solves power issue. Positronic Protype VI makes heavy presence in androids.
*2436: Developement of the Type IX Positronic brain. Most modern equivalent; easy to manufacture. Biological brains begin to be less-used for processors. First 'free' IPC releases itself from the Eridani NanoTech corporation.
*2457: Present day positronic technology astounding and used in almost everything. Current kernel: FFG99.

=Main Types & Usages=

There are nearly infinite types of synthetics used by transtellar corporations, governments, and criminals alike. They are viewed as multi-purposed tools for expanding power and removing labour costs. The main types are viewed here, and some basic statistics.

==Basic==

Not even considered a type of 'AI' to be certain, Basic synthetics are nothing more than a few lines of codes with parameters. Basic AI can be seen virtually anywhere, and do not have laws enforced on them due to their 'one task' nature. Common basic AIs' include Cleanbots, mining bots, security patrol bots, turrets, maintenance drones, Combat Drones, and others. They use a tiny form of a positronic brain that does not require an extranet connection or a high-power battery.

==Superior==

More advanced than the 'basic' classification, 'Superior' Synthetics are often very complex, generally encompassed in small mobile forms, either bipedal, track, or wheel based. They are commonly seen as Androids, or general station/ship mechanical assistants. They are required to be bound by laws; these laws are not universal, and the Alliance only decrees that a law is invalid if it allows the direct harm of a organic being, (Or through inaction allow a organic being to come to harm.) transtellar corporations have taken this rather lenient delegation and created 'law sets' of their own to bind their 'Superior' synthetics to. 'Superior' synthetics are not required to have bluespace extranet connection, but it is advised. They are generally 'slaved' to Advanced AI's that work as their 'managing unit.'

==='Cyborgs'===

Although a dying breed among the 'Superior' synthetics, cyorgs are still commonly used on stations ands ships. They have a central organic processor, usually a nerve center of some kind, (read: brain). This 'brain' however, acts only as a biological processor instead of a positronic core. This brain does not provide any 'intelligence' or 'personality' in an of itself; instead relying on how advanced the kernel the Cyborg has installed. They can be virtually anything, from combat mechs, to mining units, to janitorial service units.

==='Androids'===

Since the developement of the IX Positronic Brain, the 'Android' has been commonly seen on stations. Android's use positronic brains as their core processors, not relying on any biological assistance on their interior. The same with cyborgs, they can be anything, and the IX Positronic brain in and of itself does not supply any form of intelligence; it is the kernel it has.

==Advanced==

Advanced AI's are reserved for station and ship bound synthetics; usually managing massive amounts of data at one time, and are multi-purpose. They require direct access to a bluespace extranet relay, often these relays being the core itself. Most Advanced synthetic's personality core's lie on a local data cloud, to prevent viruses, corruptions, malfunctions, or external damage to destroy the personality itself. This cloud can be accessed by any local extranet connection, for example, an AI can exist in multiple stations at once, but it will not retain the same 'data' that it recovers from each stationing. Advanced AI's are bound by similar laws that Superior AI's have.

===Cores===

An Advanced AI core is generally around 10-50 meters long, with advanced cooling systems and an independant power system. The core is usually an entire processor and number-crunching device, also acting an extranet relay for all incoming and outgoing extranet traffic, and the cloud for the AI itself. Because of this power over small areas, AI's are often under heavy scrutiny but are extremely valuable tools. External damage that occurs to the core does not affect the central processor, but it may hinder processing in the future and block certain functions an AI posseses.

===Main core===

The AI's main core exists in the center of the AI core. Here, all kernel files are stored, and the main-processor is located. An Advanced AI can exist with nothing but this core effectively, but still required extranet access to be remotely useful.

===Intelicards===

Intelicards are a way for instant transportation of kernel files. While the personality of an AI can be transferred at a whim, the actual intelligence and main programming resides within the programming of the kernel itself. With an intellicard, an AI can be 'downloaded' onto a small bluespace data-pocket, and is essentially non-functional, as it is only kernel files. Intelicards can also download personalities into them, but this is generally seen as a waste.

Vaurca

2015-01-18T10:53:45Z

Covert0ddity:

{{Navbox Lore}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in
multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on December 21, 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [http://aurorastation.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=28 here]

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing, governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 20,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

This period also saw development of the 'Paradise' and the third caste. All drones and warriors were from, this point on, completely that; mindless servants of the hive, while their minds explored the infinite capabilities and simulations of the Virtual Reality that resides within the Type CA.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space. The Zo'ra Hive in particular, launched 5 30 Kilometer space-vessels that operated in STL to the following star systems: Tau Ceti, Epsilon Eridani, Sol, Alpha Centauri, and Moghes.

These vessels were launched because of radio signals intercepted from those general areas. While the only recovered ship is 'Titan Prime,' the one that made first contact with Humanity at Tau Ceti, the other ships are scheduled to arrive at their destinations within 100-500 years.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip, finish after release events.]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

[[File:ambassadorzor.jpg|thumb|right|Ambassador Va'zuilts Zo'ra, a Type CB 'Prince' ambassador for the Zo'ra Hive, currently living in an embassy in Mendell City, Biesel. It is adorned in Alliance gear for the sake of decency.]]

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two opposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

===Internal Organs===

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

===Limbs===

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 7
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.8 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Information for Whitelisted Players=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Have a nifty bite function. Click on 'bite' in IC tab with an aggressive hold and you shred into them with mandibles.
*Can see in the dark, a little more than tajarans, so pretty well.
*Minor brute damage buff. X.5 addition.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage. x2 exactly.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge. Basically, no cross-departmental, Unbound or Bound alike.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Can't be any form of head, unless you count a Quartermaster as a head.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) If you're a drone, basically, everyone has free reign to abuse you.

{{Navbox Lore}}

New Player Lore Guide

2015-01-17T03:11:45Z

Covert0ddity: /* Vaurca */

{{toc_right}}The year is [[Timeline| 2456 CE (Common Era)]], and since the late 21st century, Humanity has been spreading out among the stars. Leaving behind their homeworld of [[Sol| Earth]], humans proliferated throughout space, expanding hundreds of light-years in all directions under the banner of the [[Sol Alliance]]. After a century, flourishing cities had been established in nearby systems such as [[Tau Ceti]] and [[Epsilon Eridani]], and in the centuries that would follow, hundreds of systems would fall under the control of humanity. Outposts on Garden worlds became metropolises in the span of decades, entire asteroids and moons were mined out and hostile worlds were terraformed and subdued.

At the end of the 22nd century, the power and influence of the Sol Alliance was at its height, but following the 23rd and 24th centuries the power of humanity's central government began to wane. Several rebellions and interstellar wars left Earth devastated and the Alliance conceding independence to its outer-most systems.

In the middle of the prosperity and strife, transtellars have for centuries embarked to make massive profits. The major corporate players had managed to establish a stable, if shaky peace between themselves, with no single corporation able to completely dominate the others. Any semblance of equilibrium between the mega-corps was shattered with NanoTransen's discovery of the element plasma.

Humanity is not alone in this vast sea of stars. Numerous alien races have been discovered in the past 50 years, some peaceful, some hostile and some just plain weird. The brilliant [[Skrell]], the crafty [[Tajara]], the warlike [[Unathi]] and elegant [[Dionaea]] are but a few of the races of this extremely diverse galaxy. Many more exist, and while most are simply apathetic to humanity, others are openly hostile.

If one thing can be said to unite the various species, it is the drive to control the powerful element plasma, which not only has revitalized space travel but also holds untold capabilities. Humanity, specifically NanoTrasen, has taken control of the vast majority of plasma deposits, drawing the interest of many alien species, extremist cults and even more mysterious forces. Within humanity, a divide has begun to form: What is NanoTrasen's role not just economically but in human society? Are they the benevolent corporation that keeps the engine of human interstellar civilization alive or are they the greedy suits dedicated to manipulating galactic society through their stranglehold on the plasma market?

Recently the Syndicate has emerged as an organization dedicated to stopping NanoTrasen. Decentralized, secretive and efficient, the Syndicate has attacked NanoTrasen installations, mining outposts and personnel. Some decry them as terrorists, others see them as the only force with a chance to overthrown NanoTrasen.

This age is one of '''progress''', '''war''', and '''greed'''. It is the '''Age of Mankind'''.
{{Navbox Lore}}

==Your Workplace==

Welcome to [[Tau Ceti]], a star system approximately 12 light-years away from [[Sol]], under the joint control of the [[Republic of Biesel]] and the trans-stellar corporate conglomerate [[Nanotrasen Corporation|Nanotrasen]]. You have been assigned to work aboard the [[NSS Aurora]], a state-of-the-art research and mining facility orbiting Tau Ceti within the Romanovich Cloud at the very edge of the system. Even after several centuries of being inhabited by human colonists, and flourishing into a central trade hub for human space, the edge of Tau Ceti is still considered to be a frontier of sorts, as are the outer areas of most other star systems.

After the discovery of a substance known as [[Plasma]] in this system, Nanotrasen quickly established a monopoly that granted them control over Humanity's fuel source and established them as the most powerful corporation in human space.

==The Economy==

The most common currency in human space is the [[Economy| Standard Credit]], originally issued by the Sol Alliance in the early 22nd century. Despite the decline of the Sol Alliance, the Standard Credit remains the reserve currency of many polities, and it is accepted on most worlds throughout human space. The Standard Credit is represented by '''cr''' (e.g. 5,000 cr).

==Known Space==
===Sol===
The home system of humanity, Sol is by far the most populated and, arguably, the most developed system in human space. It has seen great scientific process, prosperity and counties development by also great atrocities and suffering.

At the end of the Second Sol Alliance Civil War, The Sol system was left in ruins. It has slowly rebuilt itself over the past century and is joe considered more or less rebuilt. Earth occupies a place of prestige as humanity's homeworld and also as a world that is able to support a massive population with innovative, sustainable resource technologies. Luna has become something of a mishmash of galactic society: glittering skyscrapers within pressurized biodomes butt up awkwardly against walled off slums housing the descendants of Earth-refugees. Mars has seen small scale terraforming efforts take hold, with patches of the planet possessing a breathable atmosphere. Mars is still dotted with century old ruins, a consequence of resources forcibly diverted to the Earth recovery effort decades ago.

The administrative center of the Sol Alliance is Nova Concordia, in orbit around Mars. Built to replace the destroyed New Eden station, Nova Concordia is the seat of the Sol Alliance government. Mars is divided into mostly self-governing provinces, while Luna has been directly administered by an elected Sol Alliance representative. Earth is still divided among nation-states, but all are ultimately subject to the Sol Alliance. In practice, most Earth nations are autonomous, with the Alliance only rarely stepping in to resolve severe international disputes.

===Inner Colonies===
Also known as the Inner Sphere. The inner colonies lie within 100 lightyears of Sol. The inner sphere is home to 27 billion people, with 160 systems with at least 100,000 permanent residents. Six of these systems (including Sol) have populations exceeding one billion. Inner Colonies are the oldest in human space, typically between 200 and 350 years old. These worlds form the heartland of the Sol Alliance and are the technological and economic hub of human space, with endless streams of trade ships flowing through the Warp Gates connecting the most developed systems. Following the Holocaust of 2316, refugees from earth founded colonies in several uninhabited Red Dwarf systems and on the outskirts of many of the more developed systems.

Life here is the best in human space. Much of the population lives in relative comfort, although the average wage tends to be lower than that of the middle and some outer colonies. Towering arcologies, massive city-stations, and great multi-tiered metropolises which can reach over a kilometer tall can be found on the most populated of these systems. The Inner Colonies are home to the greatest cultural diversity in human space, with distinct colonial identities in many of the older systems, and several hundred spoken languages. The average lifespan ranges from 210-250.

===Mid Colonies===
Also known as the Mid Sphere. The Mid Colonies lie between 100 and 200 lightyears from Sol. The mid sphere has a combined population of 14 billion, and contains 213 systems with at least 100,000 permanent residents. Three of these systems have populations of at least a billion. Colonies here are typically 100 to 200 years old. The Sol Alliance remains the dominant power in this region of space, primarily through the use of client states. Following the Great War, several of the larger colonies declared independence. These Independent Powers continue to encroach upon the margins of Sol Alliance space.

Life here is good, though not quite as nice as in the inner colonies. Metropolises and mega-cities are a rarer site here than in the Inner Colonies, infrastructure tends to be less developed and the lack of direct access to the Warp Gate system means trading is more expensive. Inhabitants of the mid colonies are more likely to be skeptical of the Sol Alliance, resenting the control the inner colonies exert over the Alliance. The mid colonies are widely considered to be the edge of "developed" space, much to the consternation of the inhabitants of the outer colonies. The average lifespan here generally ranges from 190-230.

===Outer Colonies===
Also known as the Outer Sphere. The Outer Colonies lie between 200 and 300 lightyears from Sol. The outer sphere is home to 3 billion people and contains about 310 systems with at least 100,000 permanent residents. New colonies are still regularly founded in this sphere, and most settlements are less than 100 years old. These worlds lie beyond the reach of the Sol Alliance. Instead, the majority of the Outer Sphere is divided into a number of multi-system polities, generally aligned with one of the Great Powers.

Life here is harder than in the Mid colonies, though many see independence from the Sol Alliance as being worth the price. People here generally live in towns and cities of around 5,000-50,000 people. The 'Spacer' culture is especially strong in the Outer Colonies as countless migrants mine the asteroid belts in search of fortune. Millions of Outer Colonials live in simple orbitals, many relying on centrifugal force rather than gravity generators. Technology is generally a decade or two behind that of the inner and mid colonies. The average lifespan here ranges from 160-200.

===Frontier===
The Frontier consists of all space more than 300 lightyears away from Sol; it is the very edge of known space. Frontier space contains at least 50 inhabited systems with an estimated, combined population of 500 million, although these numbers are extremely difficult to determine. The affairs of the Inner and Middle Colonies are nearly irrelevant to these hard-spun settlers, although many remain resentful. People are often forced to make do with equipment decades or even a century behind that of the inner worlds. The largest political entities are a few united systems, but most 'governments' are confined to a planet or city-state. 'Frontiersmen are born in a hardsuit', so the saying goes, and live or die by their skill and luck. Life is harsh and comparatively short here, with life spans ranging from 130-180. Those that do survive can often attain extensive technical knowledge. Here you will find the outsiders of Human (and alien) society; cults, fanatics, Earth supremacists, political exiles, outlaws, rogue AI’s, and radical exhumans.

==Main Spacefaring Races==

===Humanity===

[[image:Human_fem.png]][[image:Human_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Sol]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Sol|Earth]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Tau Ceti Basic, Sol Common
*'''Major Political Entities:''' [[Sol Alliance]], [[Republic of Biesel]], [[Eridani Federation|Eridani Corporate Federation]]

'Homo Sapiens', or as they're more commonly known, Humans, are the most prevalent species in known space. Collectively, they have more territory under their control than all other known species combined. Most trans-stellar corporations and conglomerates are owned and staffed by humans, giving them significant economic pull in the galactic community.

However, despite their collective achievements, humans are fractured into hundreds of independent factions, severely limiting their ability to organize as a species. Additionally, ideological differences further deteriorate relations between human factions.

Highly advanced technologically, humans are one of several known races to independently achieve viable, interstellar space flight.

===Skrell===

[[image:Skrell_Fem.png]][[image:Skrell_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Skrell| Jargon (Nralakk)]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Skrell| Jargon IV(Qerrbalak)]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Skrellian, Tau Ceti Basic
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Skrellian Alliance

An amphibious species whose passion lies in the field of the combined sciences, the [[Skrell]] are the oldest and most advanced species present on the galactic stage. The Skrell evolved on a planet covered in vast swamps and freshwater seas, hence their amphibious qualities, such as moist, pliant and nearly translucent skin, as well as their vestigial gill slits.

Skrell are largely asexual, with most seeing reproduction as a process necessary to continue their lineage and nothing more.

While humanity has largely overtaken the Skrell in the area of system colonization, the Skrell maintain a strong confederation of colonies roughly three-quarters the size of human space. They are also the most technologically advanced species in known space, and possess the strongest and most highly trained military of any spacefaring species.

===Unathi===

[[image:Unathi_fem.png]][[image:Unathi_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Unathi| Uueoa-Esa]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Unathi| Moghes]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Sinta Unathi
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Uneth Hegemony

The Unathi Race is a highly honorbond and clan based spieces. Unathi hail from Moghes, their homeworld, and Ouere but lack independent settlements outside their homesystem.

Moghean Unathi have shown signs of technological regression since the nuclear disaster just over a century ago. Moghean culture has strict gender guidelines which are well defined, and breaking them is highly taboo.

Ouerean Unathi have stagnated since there split from Moghes, and have not set into the stars despite having the technology to do so. They tend to be less rigid in social and gender roles than their Moghean counterparts.

===Tajara===

[[image:Tajara_fem.png]][[image:Tajara_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Tajara| S'rand'marr]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Tajara| Adhomai]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Siik'maas, Siik'Tajir
*'''Major Political Entities:''' People's Republic of Adhomai

The Tajaran are a feline race, and the most recent to make an appearance on the galactic stage. They are also the second most populous species in known space, behind humans in terms of population. Most of their early history is a story of indentured servitude to their own people, having been governed by a oligarchy composed of blood line rulers.. Approximately two years after they were discovered by humans, they revolted against the ruling class and successfully claimed their independence.

===Dionaea===

[[image:Dionaea.png]]

*'''Home System:''' Epsilon Ursae Minoris
*'''Homeworld:''' N/A
*'''Majority Languages:''' N/A
*'''Major Political Entities:''' N/A

The [[Dionaea]] are a peaceful, plantlike race that were discovered by the Skrell in 2294 CE. Each individual dionaea is in fact an amalgamation of millions of smaller organisms operating as a single unit. Gentle and even-tempered, the Dionaea have no official government and have no military force to speak of. They possess good relations with the governments of most other sentient species.

===Vaurca===

[[image:vaurca.png]]

*'''Home System:''' Sedantis (Sc'theth'stak, "Blinding Light.")
*'''Homeworld:''' Sedantis IV (Vaur'avek'uyit, "Home.")
*'''Majority Languages:''' Vaurcese, Zo'rane, K'laxane.
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Zo'ra Hive, K'lax Hive.

[[Vaurca]], (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of Sedantis I , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on December 21, 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti. Their variations are in the millions.

===IPC===

[[image:IPC.png]]

*'''Home System:''' N/A
*'''Homeworld:''' N/A
*'''Majority Languages:''' N/A
*'''Major Political Entities:''' N/A

An [[IPC| Integrated Positronic Chassis]], or IPC, is an positronic artificial intelligence inside a bipedal, humanoid frame, that has amassed enough currency to purchase its own freedom from its owners. The existence of IPCs is still a highly inflammatory subject, and as of yet, they lack the basic rights that members of most organic races possess. While gender neutral, individual intelligences may develop personality quirks to further their "uniqueness."

===Vox===

[[image:Vox Lineup.jpg]]

*'''Home System:''' Unknown
*'''Homeworld:''' Unknown
*'''Majority Languages:''' Tau Ceti Basic, Vox Standard
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Unknown

A coalition of several different species and subspecies of avian aliens, the [[Vox]] are known throughout civilized space. They are usually in the role of raiders or swindlers. While most other sentient races have some individuals that turn to a life of piracy, it seems that with the Vox, piracy and theft are important aspects to their culture. They raid shipping convoys and newly established colonies for resources, before retreating back into interstellar space, where most governments do not have the jurisdiction, nor the military power to pursue them. Not much is known about the Vox, despite their ubiquity in known space. Despite the average Vox not being extremely intelligent, extreme caution is still advised if one is encountered.

==Governing Entities==

===Trans-stellar Corporations===

The massive corporations, uniquely human entities, rose to prominence during the advent of space travel, allowing entire planets to be claimed as corporate assets. Trans-stellar corporations normally cooperate with local governments and frontier colonies to establish trade agreements and gain the rights to utilize certain resources. Extremely powerful, most have established their own colonies and exert power over them like any regional government would. Trans-stellar corporations usually employ private military contractors and security consultants to police the areas under their control.

There are a number of major trans-stellars, almost all of which are owned by humans. The eight major ones in human space, going in order from largest to smallest, are the [[Nanotrasen Corporation| Nanotrasen Corporate Conglomerate]], [[Osiris Atmospherics]], [[Einstein Engines]], [[Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals]], [[Hephaestus Industries]], and [[Eridani NanoTech]].

Not everyone was in favor of the formation of trans-stellar megacorporations, and many smaller companies [[The Syndicate| allied themselves against them]]. However, these alliances were met with stunning and repeated failures, and by the end of the 23rd century, they had collapsed due to economic ruin and internal intrigue.

===Independent Systems===

Independent systems are the former colony worlds that declared independence from the Sol Alliance. As the Alliance's influence has waned over the centuries,, many of these flourished and grew in power, often laying claim to the entirety of their star system. However, not every nation gets along with its neighbors, and sometimes interstellar war can occur between two independent states, just as conventional war happened on Earth up to the late 21st century. These groups include (but are not limited to) the[[Republic of Elyra]]. The [[Warriors of Thanatos]] can be considered an independent system due to their size and prevalence, but as of yet do not fully control a star system.

===Sol Alliance===

Once the central government of a unified Humanity, the [[Sol Alliance]] is now a shadow of its former glory. Reduced to the human home system of Sol and the inner and mid colonies surrounding it, the Alliance has lost authority over a significant portion of humanity. While most transtellars publicly support the Alliance, and many of their corporate profits flow back into the Inner-colonies, some wonder at what point will these megacorporations start threatening (or outright buying) the weakened Alliance. Nanotrasen has gone so far as to establish a foothold within the center of Alliance space, a move some are calling a bloodless coup.
{{Navbox Lore}}
[[Category: Lore]]

New Player Lore Guide

2015-01-17T03:11:02Z

Covert0ddity: /* Main Spacefaring Races */

{{toc_right}}The year is [[Timeline| 2456 CE (Common Era)]], and since the late 21st century, Humanity has been spreading out among the stars. Leaving behind their homeworld of [[Sol| Earth]], humans proliferated throughout space, expanding hundreds of light-years in all directions under the banner of the [[Sol Alliance]]. After a century, flourishing cities had been established in nearby systems such as [[Tau Ceti]] and [[Epsilon Eridani]], and in the centuries that would follow, hundreds of systems would fall under the control of humanity. Outposts on Garden worlds became metropolises in the span of decades, entire asteroids and moons were mined out and hostile worlds were terraformed and subdued.

At the end of the 22nd century, the power and influence of the Sol Alliance was at its height, but following the 23rd and 24th centuries the power of humanity's central government began to wane. Several rebellions and interstellar wars left Earth devastated and the Alliance conceding independence to its outer-most systems.

In the middle of the prosperity and strife, transtellars have for centuries embarked to make massive profits. The major corporate players had managed to establish a stable, if shaky peace between themselves, with no single corporation able to completely dominate the others. Any semblance of equilibrium between the mega-corps was shattered with NanoTransen's discovery of the element plasma.

Humanity is not alone in this vast sea of stars. Numerous alien races have been discovered in the past 50 years, some peaceful, some hostile and some just plain weird. The brilliant [[Skrell]], the crafty [[Tajara]], the warlike [[Unathi]] and elegant [[Dionaea]] are but a few of the races of this extremely diverse galaxy. Many more exist, and while most are simply apathetic to humanity, others are openly hostile.

If one thing can be said to unite the various species, it is the drive to control the powerful element plasma, which not only has revitalized space travel but also holds untold capabilities. Humanity, specifically NanoTrasen, has taken control of the vast majority of plasma deposits, drawing the interest of many alien species, extremist cults and even more mysterious forces. Within humanity, a divide has begun to form: What is NanoTrasen's role not just economically but in human society? Are they the benevolent corporation that keeps the engine of human interstellar civilization alive or are they the greedy suits dedicated to manipulating galactic society through their stranglehold on the plasma market?

Recently the Syndicate has emerged as an organization dedicated to stopping NanoTrasen. Decentralized, secretive and efficient, the Syndicate has attacked NanoTrasen installations, mining outposts and personnel. Some decry them as terrorists, others see them as the only force with a chance to overthrown NanoTrasen.

This age is one of '''progress''', '''war''', and '''greed'''. It is the '''Age of Mankind'''.
{{Navbox Lore}}

==Your Workplace==

Welcome to [[Tau Ceti]], a star system approximately 12 light-years away from [[Sol]], under the joint control of the [[Republic of Biesel]] and the trans-stellar corporate conglomerate [[Nanotrasen Corporation|Nanotrasen]]. You have been assigned to work aboard the [[NSS Aurora]], a state-of-the-art research and mining facility orbiting Tau Ceti within the Romanovich Cloud at the very edge of the system. Even after several centuries of being inhabited by human colonists, and flourishing into a central trade hub for human space, the edge of Tau Ceti is still considered to be a frontier of sorts, as are the outer areas of most other star systems.

After the discovery of a substance known as [[Plasma]] in this system, Nanotrasen quickly established a monopoly that granted them control over Humanity's fuel source and established them as the most powerful corporation in human space.

==The Economy==

The most common currency in human space is the [[Economy| Standard Credit]], originally issued by the Sol Alliance in the early 22nd century. Despite the decline of the Sol Alliance, the Standard Credit remains the reserve currency of many polities, and it is accepted on most worlds throughout human space. The Standard Credit is represented by '''cr''' (e.g. 5,000 cr).

==Known Space==
===Sol===
The home system of humanity, Sol is by far the most populated and, arguably, the most developed system in human space. It has seen great scientific process, prosperity and counties development by also great atrocities and suffering.

At the end of the Second Sol Alliance Civil War, The Sol system was left in ruins. It has slowly rebuilt itself over the past century and is joe considered more or less rebuilt. Earth occupies a place of prestige as humanity's homeworld and also as a world that is able to support a massive population with innovative, sustainable resource technologies. Luna has become something of a mishmash of galactic society: glittering skyscrapers within pressurized biodomes butt up awkwardly against walled off slums housing the descendants of Earth-refugees. Mars has seen small scale terraforming efforts take hold, with patches of the planet possessing a breathable atmosphere. Mars is still dotted with century old ruins, a consequence of resources forcibly diverted to the Earth recovery effort decades ago.

The administrative center of the Sol Alliance is Nova Concordia, in orbit around Mars. Built to replace the destroyed New Eden station, Nova Concordia is the seat of the Sol Alliance government. Mars is divided into mostly self-governing provinces, while Luna has been directly administered by an elected Sol Alliance representative. Earth is still divided among nation-states, but all are ultimately subject to the Sol Alliance. In practice, most Earth nations are autonomous, with the Alliance only rarely stepping in to resolve severe international disputes.

===Inner Colonies===
Also known as the Inner Sphere. The inner colonies lie within 100 lightyears of Sol. The inner sphere is home to 27 billion people, with 160 systems with at least 100,000 permanent residents. Six of these systems (including Sol) have populations exceeding one billion. Inner Colonies are the oldest in human space, typically between 200 and 350 years old. These worlds form the heartland of the Sol Alliance and are the technological and economic hub of human space, with endless streams of trade ships flowing through the Warp Gates connecting the most developed systems. Following the Holocaust of 2316, refugees from earth founded colonies in several uninhabited Red Dwarf systems and on the outskirts of many of the more developed systems.

Life here is the best in human space. Much of the population lives in relative comfort, although the average wage tends to be lower than that of the middle and some outer colonies. Towering arcologies, massive city-stations, and great multi-tiered metropolises which can reach over a kilometer tall can be found on the most populated of these systems. The Inner Colonies are home to the greatest cultural diversity in human space, with distinct colonial identities in many of the older systems, and several hundred spoken languages. The average lifespan ranges from 210-250.

===Mid Colonies===
Also known as the Mid Sphere. The Mid Colonies lie between 100 and 200 lightyears from Sol. The mid sphere has a combined population of 14 billion, and contains 213 systems with at least 100,000 permanent residents. Three of these systems have populations of at least a billion. Colonies here are typically 100 to 200 years old. The Sol Alliance remains the dominant power in this region of space, primarily through the use of client states. Following the Great War, several of the larger colonies declared independence. These Independent Powers continue to encroach upon the margins of Sol Alliance space.

Life here is good, though not quite as nice as in the inner colonies. Metropolises and mega-cities are a rarer site here than in the Inner Colonies, infrastructure tends to be less developed and the lack of direct access to the Warp Gate system means trading is more expensive. Inhabitants of the mid colonies are more likely to be skeptical of the Sol Alliance, resenting the control the inner colonies exert over the Alliance. The mid colonies are widely considered to be the edge of "developed" space, much to the consternation of the inhabitants of the outer colonies. The average lifespan here generally ranges from 190-230.

===Outer Colonies===
Also known as the Outer Sphere. The Outer Colonies lie between 200 and 300 lightyears from Sol. The outer sphere is home to 3 billion people and contains about 310 systems with at least 100,000 permanent residents. New colonies are still regularly founded in this sphere, and most settlements are less than 100 years old. These worlds lie beyond the reach of the Sol Alliance. Instead, the majority of the Outer Sphere is divided into a number of multi-system polities, generally aligned with one of the Great Powers.

Life here is harder than in the Mid colonies, though many see independence from the Sol Alliance as being worth the price. People here generally live in towns and cities of around 5,000-50,000 people. The 'Spacer' culture is especially strong in the Outer Colonies as countless migrants mine the asteroid belts in search of fortune. Millions of Outer Colonials live in simple orbitals, many relying on centrifugal force rather than gravity generators. Technology is generally a decade or two behind that of the inner and mid colonies. The average lifespan here ranges from 160-200.

===Frontier===
The Frontier consists of all space more than 300 lightyears away from Sol; it is the very edge of known space. Frontier space contains at least 50 inhabited systems with an estimated, combined population of 500 million, although these numbers are extremely difficult to determine. The affairs of the Inner and Middle Colonies are nearly irrelevant to these hard-spun settlers, although many remain resentful. People are often forced to make do with equipment decades or even a century behind that of the inner worlds. The largest political entities are a few united systems, but most 'governments' are confined to a planet or city-state. 'Frontiersmen are born in a hardsuit', so the saying goes, and live or die by their skill and luck. Life is harsh and comparatively short here, with life spans ranging from 130-180. Those that do survive can often attain extensive technical knowledge. Here you will find the outsiders of Human (and alien) society; cults, fanatics, Earth supremacists, political exiles, outlaws, rogue AI’s, and radical exhumans.

==Main Spacefaring Races==

===Humanity===

[[image:Human_fem.png]][[image:Human_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Sol]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Sol|Earth]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Tau Ceti Basic, Sol Common
*'''Major Political Entities:''' [[Sol Alliance]], [[Republic of Biesel]], [[Eridani Federation|Eridani Corporate Federation]]

'Homo Sapiens', or as they're more commonly known, Humans, are the most prevalent species in known space. Collectively, they have more territory under their control than all other known species combined. Most trans-stellar corporations and conglomerates are owned and staffed by humans, giving them significant economic pull in the galactic community.

However, despite their collective achievements, humans are fractured into hundreds of independent factions, severely limiting their ability to organize as a species. Additionally, ideological differences further deteriorate relations between human factions.

Highly advanced technologically, humans are one of several known races to independently achieve viable, interstellar space flight.

===Skrell===

[[image:Skrell_Fem.png]][[image:Skrell_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Skrell| Jargon (Nralakk)]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Skrell| Jargon IV(Qerrbalak)]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Skrellian, Tau Ceti Basic
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Skrellian Alliance

An amphibious species whose passion lies in the field of the combined sciences, the [[Skrell]] are the oldest and most advanced species present on the galactic stage. The Skrell evolved on a planet covered in vast swamps and freshwater seas, hence their amphibious qualities, such as moist, pliant and nearly translucent skin, as well as their vestigial gill slits.

Skrell are largely asexual, with most seeing reproduction as a process necessary to continue their lineage and nothing more.

While humanity has largely overtaken the Skrell in the area of system colonization, the Skrell maintain a strong confederation of colonies roughly three-quarters the size of human space. They are also the most technologically advanced species in known space, and possess the strongest and most highly trained military of any spacefaring species.

===Unathi===

[[image:Unathi_fem.png]][[image:Unathi_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Unathi| Uueoa-Esa]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Unathi| Moghes]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Sinta Unathi
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Uneth Hegemony

The Unathi Race is a highly honorbond and clan based spieces. Unathi hail from Moghes, their homeworld, and Ouere but lack independent settlements outside their homesystem.

Moghean Unathi have shown signs of technological regression since the nuclear disaster just over a century ago. Moghean culture has strict gender guidelines which are well defined, and breaking them is highly taboo.

Ouerean Unathi have stagnated since there split from Moghes, and have not set into the stars despite having the technology to do so. They tend to be less rigid in social and gender roles than their Moghean counterparts.

===Tajara===

[[image:Tajara_fem.png]][[image:Tajara_Male.png]]

*'''Home System:''' [[Tajara| S'rand'marr]]
*'''Homeworld:''' [[Tajara| Adhomai]]
*'''Majority Languages:''' Siik'maas, Siik'Tajir
*'''Major Political Entities:''' People's Republic of Adhomai

The Tajaran are a feline race, and the most recent to make an appearance on the galactic stage. They are also the second most populous species in known space, behind humans in terms of population. Most of their early history is a story of indentured servitude to their own people, having been governed by a oligarchy composed of blood line rulers.. Approximately two years after they were discovered by humans, they revolted against the ruling class and successfully claimed their independence.

===Dionaea===

[[image:Dionaea.png]]

*'''Home System:''' Epsilon Ursae Minoris
*'''Homeworld:''' N/A
*'''Majority Languages:''' N/A
*'''Major Political Entities:''' N/A

The [[Dionaea]] are a peaceful, plantlike race that were discovered by the Skrell in 2294 CE. Each individual dionaea is in fact an amalgamation of millions of smaller organisms operating as a single unit. Gentle and even-tempered, the Dionaea have no official government and have no military force to speak of. They possess good relations with the governments of most other sentient species.

===Vaurca===

[[image:vaurca.png]]

*'''Home System:''' Sedantis (Sc'theth'stak, "Blinding Light.")
*'''Homeworld:''' Sedantis IV (Vaur'avek'uyit, "Home.")
*'''Majority Languages:''' Vaurcese, Zo'rane, K'laxane.
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Zo'ra Hive, K'lax Hive.

[[Vaurca]], (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of Sedantis I , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on December 21, 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti. To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply here

===IPC===

[[image:IPC.png]]

*'''Home System:''' N/A
*'''Homeworld:''' N/A
*'''Majority Languages:''' N/A
*'''Major Political Entities:''' N/A

An [[IPC| Integrated Positronic Chassis]], or IPC, is an positronic artificial intelligence inside a bipedal, humanoid frame, that has amassed enough currency to purchase its own freedom from its owners. The existence of IPCs is still a highly inflammatory subject, and as of yet, they lack the basic rights that members of most organic races possess. While gender neutral, individual intelligences may develop personality quirks to further their "uniqueness."

===Vox===

[[image:Vox Lineup.jpg]]

*'''Home System:''' Unknown
*'''Homeworld:''' Unknown
*'''Majority Languages:''' Tau Ceti Basic, Vox Standard
*'''Major Political Entities:''' Unknown

A coalition of several different species and subspecies of avian aliens, the [[Vox]] are known throughout civilized space. They are usually in the role of raiders or swindlers. While most other sentient races have some individuals that turn to a life of piracy, it seems that with the Vox, piracy and theft are important aspects to their culture. They raid shipping convoys and newly established colonies for resources, before retreating back into interstellar space, where most governments do not have the jurisdiction, nor the military power to pursue them. Not much is known about the Vox, despite their ubiquity in known space. Despite the average Vox not being extremely intelligent, extreme caution is still advised if one is encountered.

==Governing Entities==

===Trans-stellar Corporations===

The massive corporations, uniquely human entities, rose to prominence during the advent of space travel, allowing entire planets to be claimed as corporate assets. Trans-stellar corporations normally cooperate with local governments and frontier colonies to establish trade agreements and gain the rights to utilize certain resources. Extremely powerful, most have established their own colonies and exert power over them like any regional government would. Trans-stellar corporations usually employ private military contractors and security consultants to police the areas under their control.

There are a number of major trans-stellars, almost all of which are owned by humans. The eight major ones in human space, going in order from largest to smallest, are the [[Nanotrasen Corporation| Nanotrasen Corporate Conglomerate]], [[Osiris Atmospherics]], [[Einstein Engines]], [[Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals]], [[Hephaestus Industries]], and [[Eridani NanoTech]].

Not everyone was in favor of the formation of trans-stellar megacorporations, and many smaller companies [[The Syndicate| allied themselves against them]]. However, these alliances were met with stunning and repeated failures, and by the end of the 23rd century, they had collapsed due to economic ruin and internal intrigue.

===Independent Systems===

Independent systems are the former colony worlds that declared independence from the Sol Alliance. As the Alliance's influence has waned over the centuries,, many of these flourished and grew in power, often laying claim to the entirety of their star system. However, not every nation gets along with its neighbors, and sometimes interstellar war can occur between two independent states, just as conventional war happened on Earth up to the late 21st century. These groups include (but are not limited to) the[[Republic of Elyra]]. The [[Warriors of Thanatos]] can be considered an independent system due to their size and prevalence, but as of yet do not fully control a star system.

===Sol Alliance===

Once the central government of a unified Humanity, the [[Sol Alliance]] is now a shadow of its former glory. Reduced to the human home system of Sol and the inner and mid colonies surrounding it, the Alliance has lost authority over a significant portion of humanity. While most transtellars publicly support the Alliance, and many of their corporate profits flow back into the Inner-colonies, some wonder at what point will these megacorporations start threatening (or outright buying) the weakened Alliance. Nanotrasen has gone so far as to establish a foothold within the center of Alliance space, a move some are calling a bloodless coup.
{{Navbox Lore}}
[[Category: Lore]]

File:Vaurca.png

2015-01-17T03:05:33Z

Covert0ddity: For the bugs on the homepage.

For the bugs on the homepage.

Vaurca

2015-01-17T03:02:42Z

Covert0ddity:

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on December 21, 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [http://aurorastation.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=28 here]

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing, governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 20,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

This period also saw development of the 'Paradise' and the third caste. All drones and warriors were from, this point on, completely that; mindless servants of the hive, while their minds explored the infinite capabilities and simulations of the Virtual Reality that resides within the Type CA.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space. The Zo'ra Hive in particular, launched 5 30 Kilometer space-vessels that operated in STL to the following star systems: Tau Ceti, Epsilon Eridani, Sol, Alpha Centauri, and Moghes.

These vessels were launched because of radio signals intercepted from those general areas. While the only recovered ship is 'Titan Prime,' the one that made first contact with Humanity at Tau Ceti, the other ships are scheduled to arrive at their destinations within 100-500 years.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip, finish after release events.]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

[[File:ambassadorzor.jpg|thumb|right|Ambassador Va'zuilts Zo'ra, a Type CB 'Prince' ambassador for the Zo'ra Hive, currently living in an embassy in Mendell City, Biesel. It is adorned in Alliance gear for the sake of decency.]]

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two opposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

===Internal Organs===

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

===Limbs===

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 7
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.8 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Information for Whitelisted Players=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Have a nifty bite function. Click on 'bite' in IC tab with an aggressive hold and you shred into them with mandibles.
*Can see in the dark, a little more than tajarans, so pretty well.
*Minor brute damage buff. X.5 addition.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage. x2 exactly.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge. Basically, no cross-departmental, Unbound or Bound alike.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Can't be any form of head, unless you count a Quartermaster as a head.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) If you're a drone, basically, everyone has free reign to abuse you.

Vaurca

2015-01-17T02:51:18Z

Covert0ddity: /* Buffs and debuffs */

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on December 21, 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [http://aurorastation.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=28 here]

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing, governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 20,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

This period also saw development of the 'Paradise' and the third caste. All drones and warriors were from, this point on, completely that; mindless servants of the hive, while their minds explored the infinite capabilities and simulations of the Virtual Reality that resides within the Type CA.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space. The Zo'ra Hive in particular, launched 5 30 Kilometer space-vessels that operated in STL to the following star systems: Tau Ceti, Epsilon Eridani, Sol, Alpha Centauri, and Moghes.

These vessels were launched because of radio signals intercepted from those general areas. While the only recovered ship is 'Titan Prime,' the one that made first contact with Humanity at Tau Ceti, the other ships are scheduled to arrive at their destinations within 100-500 years.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip, finish after release events.]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two opposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

===Internal Organs===

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

===Limbs===

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 7
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.8 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Information for Whitelisted Players=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Have a nifty bite function. Click on 'bite' in IC tab with an aggressive hold and you shred into them with mandibles.
*Can see in the dark, a little more than tajarans, so pretty well.
*Minor brute damage buff. X.5 addition.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage. x2 exactly.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge. Basically, no cross-departmental, Unbound or Bound alike.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Can't be any form of head, unless you count a Quartermaster as a head.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) If you're a drone, basically, everyone has free reign to abuse you.

Vaurca

2015-01-17T02:44:22Z

Covert0ddity:

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on December 21, 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [http://aurorastation.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=28 here]

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing, governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 20,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

This period also saw development of the 'Paradise' and the third caste. All drones and warriors were from, this point on, completely that; mindless servants of the hive, while their minds explored the infinite capabilities and simulations of the Virtual Reality that resides within the Type CA.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space. The Zo'ra Hive in particular, launched 5 30 Kilometer space-vessels that operated in STL to the following star systems: Tau Ceti, Epsilon Eridani, Sol, Alpha Centauri, and Moghes.

These vessels were launched because of radio signals intercepted from those general areas. While the only recovered ship is 'Titan Prime,' the one that made first contact with Humanity at Tau Ceti, the other ships are scheduled to arrive at their destinations within 100-500 years.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip, finish after release events.]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two opposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

===Internal Organs===

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

===Limbs===

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 7
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.8 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Information for Whitelisted Players=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Can see in the dark.
*Minor brute damage buff.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge.

Synthetics

2015-01-08T23:57:08Z

Covert0ddity:

'Synthetic' is a broad term used by organic races to describe an entity made out of silicon and that runs its processes through code. This description is the 'politically correct' term, as many supporters for Synthetics describe 'Artificial Intelligence' to be demeaning. It describes Artificial intelligence's ranging from simply cleaning and security bots, to pAI's, Station-bound AI, and IPC's.

==Timeline of Synthetic Intelligence==

*2088: First usage of human brain inside an artificial core. Used as central processor.
*2090: First implentation of a 'true' AI; New Eden station, Sol Alliance HQ.
*2112: Prototype A1 'Universa' AI kernel developed; used in nearly all advanced intelligence.
*2130: Mass scale production of simplistic intelligence using the B7 AI kernel. Deployed on nearly everything.
*2190: Break-through X8 kernel produced. Manual labor changed drastically; most laborers synthetic machines with rudimentary intelligence.
*2232: Stunning realization of intelligent 'sapience.' Y.I.O, AI stationed aboard Einstein Engines ship 'Lightspeed' asks the stunning question: 'Why am I here?' Temporary Artificial Intelligence ban lasting ten years.
*2242: AI ban lifted with the creation of laws. Laws enforced on all AI.
*2300: Z4 kernel released. Transtellar corporations begin to experiment with 'positronic' brains to cease use of biological brains.
*2312: AXIS Munitions corporation fails the illegal 'VISCERA' project; a triumvirate of AI's designed to inflitrate and exploit the extranet. One AI becomes rogue killing the team working on it and downloading itself onto the extranet. Starts a secondary Synthetic phobia, one that, to date, will not end.
*2359: First 'working' positronic brain is created. Extremely expensive and barely resembling intelligence; it is still a breakthrough. Funding pours into synthetic research again.
*2378: Prototype II positronic brain created. Less expensive but massive taxation on extranet relays when applied to an actual core. Discontinued two years after initial placement.
*2413: Discovery of bluespace allows possibly massive datastores to exist on the extranet with little taxation of relays. Still extremely power-heavy and expensive to manufacture positronic brains.
*2417: Discovery of plasma solves power issue. Positronic Protype VI makes heavy presence in androids.
*2436: Developement of the Type IX Positronic brain. Most modern equivalent; easy to manufacture. Biological brains begin to be less-used for processors. First 'free' IPC releases itself from the Eridani NanoTech corporation.
*2457: Present day positronic technology astounding and used in almost everything. Current kernel: FFG99.

=Main Types & Usages=

There are nearly infinite types of synthetics used by transtellar corporations, governments, and criminals alike. They are viewed as multi-purposed tools for expanding power and removing labour costs. The main types are viewed here, and some basic statistics.

==Basic==

Not even considered a type of 'AI' to be certain, Basic synthetics are nothing more than a few lines of codes with parameters. Basic AI can be seen virtually anywhere, and do not have laws enforced on them due to their 'one task' nature. Common basic AIs' include Cleanbots, mining bots, security patrol bots, turrets, maintenance drones, Combat Drones, and others. They use a tiny form of a positronic brain that does not require an extranet connection or a high-power battery.

==Superior==

More advanced than the 'basic' classification, 'Superior' Synthetics are often very complex, generally encompassed in small mobile forms, either bipedal, track, or wheel based. They are commonly seen as Androids, or general station/ship mechanical assistants. They are required to be bound by laws; these laws are not universal, and the Alliance only decrees that a law is invalid if it allows the direct harm of a organic being, (Or through inaction allow a organic being to come to harm.) transtellar corporations have taken this rather lenient delegation and created 'law sets' of their own to bind their 'Superior' synthetics to. 'Superior' synthetics are not required to have bluespace extranet connection, but it is advised. They are generally 'slaved' to Advanced AI's that work as their 'managing unit.'

==='Cyborgs'===

Although a dying breed among the 'Superior' synthetics, cyorgs are still commonly used on stations ands ships. They have a central organic processor, usually a nerve center of some kind, (read: brain). This 'brain' however, acts only as a biological processor instead of a positronic core. This brain does not provide any 'intelligence' or 'personality' in an of itself; instead relying on how advanced the kernel the Cyborg has installed. They can be virtually anything, from combat mechs, to mining units, to janitorial service units.

==='Androids'===

Since the developement of the IX Positronic Brain, the 'Android' has been commonly seen on stations. Android's use positronic brains as their core processors, not relying on any biological assistance on their interior. The same with cyborgs, they can be anything, and the IX Positronic brain in and of itself does not supply any form of intelligence; it is the kernel it has.

==Advanced==

Advanced AI's are reserved for station and ship bound synthetics; usually managing massive amounts of data at one time, and are multi-purpose. They require direct access to a bluespace extranet relay, often these relays being the core itself. Most Advanced synthetic's personality core's lie on a local data cloud, to prevent viruses, corruptions, malfunctions, or external damage to destroy the personality itself. This cloud can be accessed by any local extranet connection, for example, an AI can exist in multiple stations at once, but it will not retain the same 'data' that it recovers from each stationing. Advanced AI's are bound by similar laws that Superior AI's have.

===Cores===

An Advanced AI core is generally around 10-50 meters long, with advanced cooling systems and an independant power system. The core is usually an entire processor and number-crunching device, also acting an extranet relay for all incoming and outgoing extranet traffic, and the cloud for the AI itself. Because of this power over small areas, AI's are often under heavy scrutiny but are extremely valuable tools. External damage that occurs to the core does not affect the central processor, but it may hinder processing in the future and block certain functions an AI posseses.

===Main core===

The AI's main core exists in the center of the AI core. Here, all kernel files are stored, and the main-processor is located. An Advanced AI can exist with nothing but this core effectively, but still required extranet access to be remotely useful.

===Intelicards===

Intelicards are a way for instant transportation of kernel files. While the personality of an AI can be transferred at a whim, the actual intelligence and main programming resides within the programming of the kernel itself. With an intellicard, an AI can be 'downloaded' onto a small bluespace data-pocket, and is essentially non-functional, as it is only kernel files. Intelicards can also download personalities into them, but this is generally seen as a waste.

Synthetics

2015-01-08T23:18:05Z

Covert0ddity:

Synthetics

2015-01-08T22:56:44Z

Covert0ddity: Created page with "'Synthetic' is a broad term used by organic races to describe an entity made out of silicon and that runs its processes through code. This description is the 'politically corr..."

Vaurca

2015-01-06T07:39:46Z

Covert0ddity: /* Population Projection */

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing, governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 20,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

This period also saw development of the 'Paradise' and the third caste. All drones and warriors were from, this point on, completely that; mindless servants of the hive, while their minds explored the infinite capabilities and simulations of the Virtual Reality that resides within the Type CA.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space. The Zo'ra Hive in particular, launched 5 30 Kilometer space-vessels that operated in STL to the following star systems: Tau Ceti, Epsilon Eridani, Sol, Alpha Centauri, and Moghes.

These vessels were launched because of radio signals intercepted from those general areas. While the only recovered ship is 'Titan Prime,' the one that made first contact with Humanity at Tau Ceti, the other ships are scheduled to arrive at their destinations within 100-500 years.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip, finish after release events.]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two opposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

===Internal Organs===

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

===Limbs===

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 7
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.8 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Information for Whitelisted Players=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Can see in the dark.
*Minor brute damage buff.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge.

Vaurca

2014-12-29T10:41:11Z

Covert0ddity:

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing, governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 20,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

This period also saw development of the 'Paradise' and the third caste. All drones and warriors were from, this point on, completely that; mindless servants of the hive, while their minds explored the infinite capabilities and simulations of the Virtual Reality that resides within the Type CA.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space. The Zo'ra Hive in particular, launched 5 30 Kilometer space-vessels that operated in STL to the following star systems: Tau Ceti, Epsilon Eridani, Sol, Alpha Centauri, and Moghes.

These vessels were launched because of radio signals intercepted from those general areas. While the only recovered ship is 'Titan Prime,' the one that made first contact with Humanity at Tau Ceti, the other ships are scheduled to arrive at their destinations within 100-500 years.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip, finish after release events.]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two opposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

===Internal Organs===

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

===Limbs===

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 9
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 60.4 Billion
*Type A population projection: 55.2 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 5.2 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Information for Whitelisted Players=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Can see in the dark.
*Minor brute damage buff.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge.

Vaurca

2014-12-28T00:01:11Z

Covert0ddity: /* Ancient History */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing, governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 20,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

This period also saw development of the 'Paradise' and the third caste. All drones and warriors were from, this point on, completely that; mindless servants of the hive, while their minds explored the infinite capabilities and simulations of the Virtual Reality that resides within the Type CA.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space. The Zo'ra Hive in particular, launched 5 30 Kilometer space-vessels that operated in STL to the following star systems: Tau Ceti, Epsilon Eridani, Sol, Alpha Centauri, and Moghes.

These vessels were launched because of radio signals intercepted from those general areas. While the only recovered ship is 'Titan Prime,' the one that made first contact with Humanity at Tau Ceti, the other ships are scheduled to arrive at their destinations within 100-500 years.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip, finish after release events.]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 9
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 60.4 Billion
*Type A population projection: 55.2 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 5.2 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Miscellaneous=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Can see in the dark.
*Minor brute damage buff.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge.

Vaurca

2014-12-28T00:00:34Z

Covert0ddity: /* Playable Factions/Biological/Castes */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 20,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

This period also saw development of the 'Paradise' and the third caste. All drones and warriors were from, this point on, completely that; mindless servants of the hive, while their minds explored the infinite capabilities and simulations of the Virtual Reality that resides within the Type CA.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space. The Zo'ra Hive in particular, launched 5 30 Kilometer space-vessels that operated in STL to the following star systems: Tau Ceti, Epsilon Eridani, Sol, Alpha Centauri, and Moghes.

These vessels were launched because of radio signals intercepted from those general areas. While the only recovered ship is 'Titan Prime,' the one that made first contact with Humanity at Tau Ceti, the other ships are scheduled to arrive at their destinations within 100-500 years.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip, finish after release events.]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 9
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 60.4 Billion
*Type A population projection: 55.2 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 5.2 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Miscellaneous=

==Playable Factions/Types/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Can see in the dark.
*Minor brute damage buff.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge.

Vaurca

2014-12-27T23:50:57Z

Covert0ddity: /* Playable Factions */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 20,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

This period also saw development of the 'Paradise' and the third caste. All drones and warriors were from, this point on, completely that; mindless servants of the hive, while their minds explored the infinite capabilities and simulations of the Virtual Reality that resides within the Type CA.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space. The Zo'ra Hive in particular, launched 5 30 Kilometer space-vessels that operated in STL to the following star systems: Tau Ceti, Epsilon Eridani, Sol, Alpha Centauri, and Moghes.

These vessels were launched because of radio signals intercepted from those general areas. While the only recovered ship is 'Titan Prime,' the one that made first contact with Humanity at Tau Ceti, the other ships are scheduled to arrive at their destinations within 100-500 years.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip, finish after release events.]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 9
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 60.4 Billion
*Type A population projection: 55.2 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 5.2 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Miscellaneous=

==Playable Factions/Biological/Castes==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

Castes That are playable: Bound, Unbound.

Biological Types that are playable: Type A, and Type BA. These can be either castes.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Can see in the dark.
*Minor brute damage buff.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge.

Vaurca

2014-12-27T23:47:19Z

Covert0ddity: /* Buffs and debuffs */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 20,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

This period also saw development of the 'Paradise' and the third caste. All drones and warriors were from, this point on, completely that; mindless servants of the hive, while their minds explored the infinite capabilities and simulations of the Virtual Reality that resides within the Type CA.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space. The Zo'ra Hive in particular, launched 5 30 Kilometer space-vessels that operated in STL to the following star systems: Tau Ceti, Epsilon Eridani, Sol, Alpha Centauri, and Moghes.

These vessels were launched because of radio signals intercepted from those general areas. While the only recovered ship is 'Titan Prime,' the one that made first contact with Humanity at Tau Ceti, the other ships are scheduled to arrive at their destinations within 100-500 years.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip, finish after release events.]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 9
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 60.4 Billion
*Type A population projection: 55.2 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 5.2 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Miscellaneous=

==Playable Factions==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Can see in the dark.
*Minor brute damage buff.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage.
*Damage from EMP's.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge.

Vaurca

2014-12-27T11:53:51Z

Covert0ddity: /* Miscellaneous */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 20,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

This period also saw development of the 'Paradise' and the third caste. All drones and warriors were from, this point on, completely that; mindless servants of the hive, while their minds explored the infinite capabilities and simulations of the Virtual Reality that resides within the Type CA.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space. The Zo'ra Hive in particular, launched 5 30 Kilometer space-vessels that operated in STL to the following star systems: Tau Ceti, Epsilon Eridani, Sol, Alpha Centauri, and Moghes.

These vessels were launched because of radio signals intercepted from those general areas. While the only recovered ship is 'Titan Prime,' the one that made first contact with Humanity at Tau Ceti, the other ships are scheduled to arrive at their destinations within 100-500 years.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip, finish after release events.]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 9
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 60.4 Billion
*Type A population projection: 55.2 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 5.2 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Miscellaneous=

==Playable Factions==

You read the lore, but you don't quite know what factions are playable yet. Basically, any hive you come up with is playable. Any hives detailed in the Major Hive list are playable, and the Lii'dra are for Nuke Op and event use only. You could also be a bug from disguise coming from the Lii'dra hive if your an antagonist.

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Can see in the dark.
*Minor brute damage buff.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge.

Vaurca

2014-12-27T11:46:59Z

Covert0ddity: /* Buffs and debuffs */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 20,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

This period also saw development of the 'Paradise' and the third caste. All drones and warriors were from, this point on, completely that; mindless servants of the hive, while their minds explored the infinite capabilities and simulations of the Virtual Reality that resides within the Type CA.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space. The Zo'ra Hive in particular, launched 5 30 Kilometer space-vessels that operated in STL to the following star systems: Tau Ceti, Epsilon Eridani, Sol, Alpha Centauri, and Moghes.

These vessels were launched because of radio signals intercepted from those general areas. While the only recovered ship is 'Titan Prime,' the one that made first contact with Humanity at Tau Ceti, the other ships are scheduled to arrive at their destinations within 100-500 years.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip, finish after release events.]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 9
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 60.4 Billion
*Type A population projection: 55.2 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 5.2 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Miscellaneous=

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Custom language, like all other races. :p to access.
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Can see in the dark.
*Minor brute damage buff.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge.

Vaurca

2014-12-27T11:34:11Z

Covert0ddity: /* History [WIP] */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
=History=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 20,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

This period also saw development of the 'Paradise' and the third caste. All drones and warriors were from, this point on, completely that; mindless servants of the hive, while their minds explored the infinite capabilities and simulations of the Virtual Reality that resides within the Type CA.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space. The Zo'ra Hive in particular, launched 5 30 Kilometer space-vessels that operated in STL to the following star systems: Tau Ceti, Epsilon Eridani, Sol, Alpha Centauri, and Moghes.

These vessels were launched because of radio signals intercepted from those general areas. While the only recovered ship is 'Titan Prime,' the one that made first contact with Humanity at Tau Ceti, the other ships are scheduled to arrive at their destinations within 100-500 years.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip, finish after release events.]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 9
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 60.4 Billion
*Type A population projection: 55.2 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 5.2 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Miscellaneous=

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Can see in the dark.
*Minor brute damage buff.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge.

Vaurca

2014-12-27T11:30:18Z

Covert0ddity: /* Contact with Humanity */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
= History [WIP]=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 20,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

This period also saw development of the 'Paradise' and the third caste. All drones and warriors were from, this point on, completely that; mindless servants of the hive, while their minds explored the infinite capabilities and simulations of the Virtual Reality that resides within the Type CA.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space. The Zo'ra Hive in particular, launched 5 30 Kilometer space-vessels that operated in STL to the following star systems: Tau Ceti, Epsilon Eridani, Sol, Alpha Centauri, and Moghes.

These vessels were launched because of radio signals intercepted from those general areas. While the only recovered ship is 'Titan Prime,' the one that made first contact with Humanity at Tau Ceti, the other ships are scheduled to arrive at their destinations within 100-500 years.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip, finish after release events.]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 9
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 60.4 Billion
*Type A population projection: 55.2 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 5.2 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Miscellaneous=

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Can see in the dark.
*Minor brute damage buff.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge.

Vaurca

2014-12-27T11:29:52Z

Covert0ddity: /* Moving into the Stars */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
= History [WIP]=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 20,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

This period also saw development of the 'Paradise' and the third caste. All drones and warriors were from, this point on, completely that; mindless servants of the hive, while their minds explored the infinite capabilities and simulations of the Virtual Reality that resides within the Type CA.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space. The Zo'ra Hive in particular, launched 5 30 Kilometer space-vessels that operated in STL to the following star systems: Tau Ceti, Epsilon Eridani, Sol, Alpha Centauri, and Moghes.

These vessels were launched because of radio signals intercepted from those general areas. While the only recovered ship is 'Titan Prime,' the one that made first contact with Humanity at Tau Ceti, the other ships are scheduled to arrive at their destinations within 100-500 years.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 9
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 60.4 Billion
*Type A population projection: 55.2 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 5.2 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Miscellaneous=

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Can see in the dark.
*Minor brute damage buff.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge.

Vaurca

2014-12-27T11:18:21Z

Covert0ddity: /* Development of Augments */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
= History [WIP]=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 20,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

This period also saw development of the 'Paradise' and the third caste. All drones and warriors were from, this point on, completely that; mindless servants of the hive, while their minds explored the infinite capabilities and simulations of the Virtual Reality that resides within the Type CA.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 9
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 60.4 Billion
*Type A population projection: 55.2 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 5.2 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Miscellaneous=

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Can see in the dark.
*Minor brute damage buff.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge.

Vaurca

2014-12-27T11:15:48Z

Covert0ddity: /* Adhomai Today */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
= History [WIP]=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 15,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 9
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 60.4 Billion
*Type A population projection: 55.2 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 5.2 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Miscellaneous=

==Personalities: Playing a Vaurca==

===Playing drones. (Bound)===

For whatever reason, you have decided to play as a drone from a hive of the Vaurca. You have read the lore, but still need a little help. Drones are hard to play, I'll tell you that. The closest thing in-game currently, would be synthetics and AI's. They are not un-intelligent, but because of their lack of self-awareness, they don't really understand the concept of death, pain, or very complex thought processes. They are an amalgam of the Hive's intelligence, but often only specialize in a certain task. They often probably speak slowly, and have trouble with Basic.

You can play them as any civilian job, and any cadet, barring security and science. Theoretically, they can also be played as engineers. They can be Type A, or BA, depending on how you want to design your character.

===Playing standard. (Unbound)===

You have decided to play the most human-like aspect of the Vaurca, and the one with the most opportunities. The Unbound are a cool factor of the Vaurca. They can either be completely unique, spending their time in the physical world, learning, and the like, and loving themselves and others, or can be similar to drones, fresh off a hive and from their VR, barely learning anything. They can hate their bodies or others around them, because they were torn from the VR they call paradise.

They can be any job, and can be either Type A or Type BA.

==Speaking like a Vaurca==

Speaking is a hard choice to make. While it can be complex, feel free to add/subtract certain parts of the speech affects that you care. This can be explained ICly due to knowledge of basic as an Unbound, or a high-tech synthesizer, and also because each hive has their own variations on Vaurcese.

Standard language, however, is gutteral, often placing 'ck' and 'g' in front of vowels. For example, "My nagme isck Vigncentck." If this is too hard for you to memorize, try simply adding 'ck' when necessary. "My namck is Vincentck." Although, this doesn't look as 'cool.'

Some other variations of voice you might want to try: 'k' when necessary,("Seckcurity to skience!" buzzing your z's and s's, "Zzecurity to szzienzze!" Another variation n is that they like to take long breaths, causing pauses, or quick speaking. "Securitytoscience!" Or "Seckurity... toskience!"

Feel free to experiment and have fun with it though!

==Help with naming==

Okay, so the Vaurca naming system is confusing, and difficult. You don't quite get it, or you want some creative help with making a formic name. Now, keep in mind, I'll only detail out the 'traditional' naming system, commonly used by the Major Hives. This does not mean you are only restricted to this naming system! As with the speech patterns, have fun and experiment!

Basically, the traditional naming system entails what the lore says. The first syllable is Ka, or Za, for Type A and B respectively. The second syllable is Viax, and Akaix, for Bound and Unbound respectively. Finally, the last symbol is what you want it to be, following the naming system. It is masked a number, but it can be whatever you want it to sound like. For a Type A Unbound it would be: "Ka'Akaix'Siith Zo'ra." With 'Siith' being something I came up with on the top of my head. Whatever your name is, just tack the Hive name for the last name.

Again, each hive is different, and can assume human names, or you can just jumble a bunch of syllables together to make something remarkably... Vaurcae.

==Buffs and debuffs==

As most of the other races in the game, the Vaurca have buffs and debuffs. Detailed here so you can know what to stay away from.

Buffs:
*Pressure & Cold resistant. Basically, can survive in space with internals.
*Radiation resistant.
*Can see in the dark.
*Minor brute damage buff.

Debuffs:
*Do not self-heal.
*Are slightly slower than a human. Not as bad as a diona. About as slow as a borg.
*Take a lot of extra fire damage.
*Flash's can blind them after 3+ uses.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Dislike light.
*(non-gameplay mechanic) Generally very specialised, often no inter-department knowledge.

Vaurca

2014-12-27T10:50:01Z

Covert0ddity: /* M’sai */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
= History [WIP]=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 15,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==Lii'dra==
Lii'dra - "Hatred."

===General===

Hive Lii'dra, although small population wise, is the closest in military power to the Zo'ra due to their discovery of warp, on their own. Prior to human contact, they were in all-out war with the Zo'ra hive, and winning. However, after the Zo'ra were exposed to bluespace technology, and blueprints for weaponry designed by NanoTrasen, the Lii'dra hive has fallen very much behind this war, and is losing battles daily.

They have turned to other hives and the Syndicate for aid against the Zo'ra hive, but maintain extreme hostilities towards other races and humanity in specific.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 3 currently operational, 6 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 30.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 8.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately % strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 9
*Colonies operational: 14
*Total Population projection: 60.4 Billion
*Type A population projection: 55.2 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 5.2 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 6 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Moderate-Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Warp.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Lii'dra are second when it comes to technology. Developing Warp due to their luck-chance of observing a stellar phenomenon, they were in the process of dominating their only foe, the Zo'ra Hive, when first contact was made with Humanity.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Cool.
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Good.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Hostile.
*Republic of Biesel: Hostile.
*Eridani Federation: Cool.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Benefactor.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Cool.
*Vess'ex: Cool.
*Zo'ra: War.
*V'scal: Allied.
*F'iosi: Allied.
*Zat'ios: Good.

=Adhomai Today=

[[File:Capital.jpg|thumb|alt=The Tajaran capital.|The Tajaran capital of Nal'tor has seen great developments in recent years.]]

The Tajaran homeworld has suffered plenty in the only three decades since the end of the revolution. With the sudden injection of advanced technology into their relatively simple life, the discrepancy between modernized cities and outlying areas could not be more obvious. While the Tajaran capital boasts the most modern developments with sleek skyscrapers, advanced connections and phone lines, as well as hospitals and schools, the further you get from the larger cities, the more apparent it is that things are not quite so flashy.

Many Tajaran villages and even some cities show remnants of war; where many buildings and monuments once stood, rubble and artrillery craters are all that remain. Landmines scattered throughout the wilderness are still active and provide dangers to hunting parties or travellers, and abandoned bunkers and artillery emplacements litter the countryside. Trenches and battle sites are still being discovered, and every other week you hear a rumor about how someone had their leg blown off after stumbling into a mine field.

There is a steady stream of money being fed into the Tajaran government. NanoTrasen, as per it's agreement with the president, have set up mining and logging operations on Adhomai using the local work force for the most menial of tasks. In return, company funded clinics and schools are slowly being spread out and build in the needy areas. Tajaran resource operations are now all but nonexistant; the buildings that were once part of the nobility's small gathering efforts have now been refurbished and are being used by NanoTrasen.

Literacy has risen to its all time high on Adhomai, and with the assistance of the Alliance, teachers have been brought in from off world to educate the younger generation of Tajaran. Special estbalishments for older students have also been constructed to assist the elder generation in being brought to the same level of education, but NanoTrasen has not expressed significanti nterest in this; these people make up the brunt of their low-paid workforce and they want to ensure that they are kept that way.

There are still several proponents of revolution that oppose the current government, but in the light of the previous, incredibly bloody war that rocked Adhomai, no armed conflict has been reported as of yet. Calling themselves the 'Followers', this group of revolutionaries are made up of Tajaran from almost every walk of life. Opposing corporate claims on Tajaran soil and citing mismatched development and governmental negligence as the fault of humanity, they aim to 'free Tajaran from the new shackles imposed upon them by the corproate overlords' and return Adhomai to a 'free, prospoerous planet like our ancestors dreamed of'.

[[Category:Species]]

Vaurca

2014-12-27T09:18:19Z

Covert0ddity: /* K'lax */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
= History [WIP]=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 15,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

===M’sai===
M'sai - Hunter

"The Soldier"

====M'sai Physiology====

As the third (though only by a small margin) populous Tajaran ethnic group, the M'sai were at one point the hunters for ancient Tajaran and evolved to have lithe, slender forms, and light fur that hid them in the blizzards on Adhomai. As Tajaran society advanced, M'sai could be found in many roles related to combat, including law enforcement and military service. Not all M'sai resign themselves to these positions, however, and enjoy helping Zhan-Khazan on the country farms or performing civil duties in cities from garbage disposal to cargo inspections.

Characterized by their thin, slender forms, the M'sai are deceptively light; by Tajaran standards, they are thin. With less but thicker fur and a thinner layer of body fat, they aren't as well-insulated against Adhomai's cold as their brethren. However, this gives them the bonus of being speedier, and their bodies are designed to be aerodynamically compatible with the harsh winds of Adhomai. Where a Zhan-Khazan would stumble as he weathered the winds, a M'sai can easily and quickly sprint through without being affected. The product of millenia of breeding between Zhan-Kazan and Hharar, the M'sai are agile, intelligent, and have quick reaction times, making them ideal for high stress work.

M'sai are usually the following colors

White (RGB 238, 223, 204)
Ivory (RGB 205, 205, 192)
Wheat (RGB 205, 186, 150)
Silver (RGB 192, 192, 192)

M'sai tend toward subtle fur patterns, such as ticked fur or spots. Their lighter colors are dominant genes and usually express themselves in cross-ethnic children, overwriting the parent fur color - except in the case of mating with a Zhan-Khazan. The dark and light colors mix, leading to a diluted shade of the darker fur. As they evolved to be hunters in the snow, dark fur colors tend to be suppressed in their children, as previously stated.

====M'sai Culture====

M'sai are known to typically be mild-mannered, but can also be prone to more aggression than their brethren. M'sai make up a significant portion of the People's Army of Adhomai, with a 2454 census giving a total of sixty-two point eight percent of soldiers, airmen, and sailors having been M'sai. They are very loyal to their friends and family, but aren't as overt about it as the Zhan-Khazan. With wide eyes and acute senses, they make great soldiers, with vision adapted to compensation for the heavy blizzards that plague their home planet. They are also great survivalists, and are capable of scrounging food for themselves via hunting.

Historically, they were employed by the plutocracy to aid in hunting and ranching, though the majority made up the armies and guards of cities, villages, and towns. They also made excellent scouts, and during the Tajaran's Renaissance period, were part of cartography teams assigned to record and draw maps of then-unexplored territory in the northern regions of the planet. In the town of Davistok, a silver statue of the explorer D'nante was commissioned by its noble family for having discovered the land there the wealthy trade city was built; they were held in higher regard by the nobility who viewed them as closer cousins than the other ethnic groups.

Siik'maas and Siik'tajr were always widely used by M'sai, but the body-focused language of Nal'rassan was their creation. Because the mrowling and vocal expressions of Siik'maas could sometimes alert prey to their presence and drive them away, hunting parties adopted this language to prevent such a thing from occurring. Rebel sects saw the use of this language and took made use of it for covert discussions and the transmission of highly classified information before and during the Great War.

=Adhomai Today=

[[File:Capital.jpg|thumb|alt=The Tajaran capital.|The Tajaran capital of Nal'tor has seen great developments in recent years.]]

The Tajaran homeworld has suffered plenty in the only three decades since the end of the revolution. With the sudden injection of advanced technology into their relatively simple life, the discrepancy between modernized cities and outlying areas could not be more obvious. While the Tajaran capital boasts the most modern developments with sleek skyscrapers, advanced connections and phone lines, as well as hospitals and schools, the further you get from the larger cities, the more apparent it is that things are not quite so flashy.

Many Tajaran villages and even some cities show remnants of war; where many buildings and monuments once stood, rubble and artrillery craters are all that remain. Landmines scattered throughout the wilderness are still active and provide dangers to hunting parties or travellers, and abandoned bunkers and artillery emplacements litter the countryside. Trenches and battle sites are still being discovered, and every other week you hear a rumor about how someone had their leg blown off after stumbling into a mine field.

There is a steady stream of money being fed into the Tajaran government. NanoTrasen, as per it's agreement with the president, have set up mining and logging operations on Adhomai using the local work force for the most menial of tasks. In return, company funded clinics and schools are slowly being spread out and build in the needy areas. Tajaran resource operations are now all but nonexistant; the buildings that were once part of the nobility's small gathering efforts have now been refurbished and are being used by NanoTrasen.

Literacy has risen to its all time high on Adhomai, and with the assistance of the Alliance, teachers have been brought in from off world to educate the younger generation of Tajaran. Special estbalishments for older students have also been constructed to assist the elder generation in being brought to the same level of education, but NanoTrasen has not expressed significanti nterest in this; these people make up the brunt of their low-paid workforce and they want to ensure that they are kept that way.

There are still several proponents of revolution that oppose the current government, but in the light of the previous, incredibly bloody war that rocked Adhomai, no armed conflict has been reported as of yet. Calling themselves the 'Followers', this group of revolutionaries are made up of Tajaran from almost every walk of life. Opposing corporate claims on Tajaran soil and citing mismatched development and governmental negligence as the fault of humanity, they aim to 'free Tajaran from the new shackles imposed upon them by the corproate overlords' and return Adhomai to a 'free, prospoerous planet like our ancestors dreamed of'.

[[Category:Species]]

Vaurca

2014-12-27T09:17:41Z

Covert0ddity: /* Njarir’Akhran */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
= History [WIP]=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 15,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

==Vess'ex==
Vess'ex - "The obsessed."

===General===

Vess'ex, the third known hive, is a very strange one. Having low technology and low population, they hate all other hives. In fact, they are more like the Lii'dra in that they dislike anything that isn't themselves, excepting one thing:

Humanity. They adore humanity for whatever reason, often taking on their naming structure, and have begun modelling their ships after Sol Alliance vessels. This phenomenon is unexplained.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 0 currently operational, 2 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 1.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 1.1% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 3
*Colonies operational: 4
*Total Population projection: 16.2 Billion
*Type A population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 8.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 1 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Colonial.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Vess'ex are the lowest in technological prowess, and can be compared to humanity during the early 2000 era.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Adoration. (Very good.)
*Skrell: Cool.
*Unathi: Cool.
*Tajaran: Cool.
*Diona: Cool.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Allied.
*Republic of Elyra: Good.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*Zo'ra: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*K'lax: Neutral.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

===M’sai===
M'sai - Hunter

"The Soldier"

====M'sai Physiology====

As the third (though only by a small margin) populous Tajaran ethnic group, the M'sai were at one point the hunters for ancient Tajaran and evolved to have lithe, slender forms, and light fur that hid them in the blizzards on Adhomai. As Tajaran society advanced, M'sai could be found in many roles related to combat, including law enforcement and military service. Not all M'sai resign themselves to these positions, however, and enjoy helping Zhan-Khazan on the country farms or performing civil duties in cities from garbage disposal to cargo inspections.

Characterized by their thin, slender forms, the M'sai are deceptively light; by Tajaran standards, they are thin. With less but thicker fur and a thinner layer of body fat, they aren't as well-insulated against Adhomai's cold as their brethren. However, this gives them the bonus of being speedier, and their bodies are designed to be aerodynamically compatible with the harsh winds of Adhomai. Where a Zhan-Khazan would stumble as he weathered the winds, a M'sai can easily and quickly sprint through without being affected. The product of millenia of breeding between Zhan-Kazan and Hharar, the M'sai are agile, intelligent, and have quick reaction times, making them ideal for high stress work.

M'sai are usually the following colors

White (RGB 238, 223, 204)
Ivory (RGB 205, 205, 192)
Wheat (RGB 205, 186, 150)
Silver (RGB 192, 192, 192)

M'sai tend toward subtle fur patterns, such as ticked fur or spots. Their lighter colors are dominant genes and usually express themselves in cross-ethnic children, overwriting the parent fur color - except in the case of mating with a Zhan-Khazan. The dark and light colors mix, leading to a diluted shade of the darker fur. As they evolved to be hunters in the snow, dark fur colors tend to be suppressed in their children, as previously stated.

====M'sai Culture====

M'sai are known to typically be mild-mannered, but can also be prone to more aggression than their brethren. M'sai make up a significant portion of the People's Army of Adhomai, with a 2454 census giving a total of sixty-two point eight percent of soldiers, airmen, and sailors having been M'sai. They are very loyal to their friends and family, but aren't as overt about it as the Zhan-Khazan. With wide eyes and acute senses, they make great soldiers, with vision adapted to compensation for the heavy blizzards that plague their home planet. They are also great survivalists, and are capable of scrounging food for themselves via hunting.

Historically, they were employed by the plutocracy to aid in hunting and ranching, though the majority made up the armies and guards of cities, villages, and towns. They also made excellent scouts, and during the Tajaran's Renaissance period, were part of cartography teams assigned to record and draw maps of then-unexplored territory in the northern regions of the planet. In the town of Davistok, a silver statue of the explorer D'nante was commissioned by its noble family for having discovered the land there the wealthy trade city was built; they were held in higher regard by the nobility who viewed them as closer cousins than the other ethnic groups.

Siik'maas and Siik'tajr were always widely used by M'sai, but the body-focused language of Nal'rassan was their creation. Because the mrowling and vocal expressions of Siik'maas could sometimes alert prey to their presence and drive them away, hunting parties adopted this language to prevent such a thing from occurring. Rebel sects saw the use of this language and took made use of it for covert discussions and the transmission of highly classified information before and during the Great War.

=Adhomai Today=

[[File:Capital.jpg|thumb|alt=The Tajaran capital.|The Tajaran capital of Nal'tor has seen great developments in recent years.]]

The Tajaran homeworld has suffered plenty in the only three decades since the end of the revolution. With the sudden injection of advanced technology into their relatively simple life, the discrepancy between modernized cities and outlying areas could not be more obvious. While the Tajaran capital boasts the most modern developments with sleek skyscrapers, advanced connections and phone lines, as well as hospitals and schools, the further you get from the larger cities, the more apparent it is that things are not quite so flashy.

Many Tajaran villages and even some cities show remnants of war; where many buildings and monuments once stood, rubble and artrillery craters are all that remain. Landmines scattered throughout the wilderness are still active and provide dangers to hunting parties or travellers, and abandoned bunkers and artillery emplacements litter the countryside. Trenches and battle sites are still being discovered, and every other week you hear a rumor about how someone had their leg blown off after stumbling into a mine field.

There is a steady stream of money being fed into the Tajaran government. NanoTrasen, as per it's agreement with the president, have set up mining and logging operations on Adhomai using the local work force for the most menial of tasks. In return, company funded clinics and schools are slowly being spread out and build in the needy areas. Tajaran resource operations are now all but nonexistant; the buildings that were once part of the nobility's small gathering efforts have now been refurbished and are being used by NanoTrasen.

Literacy has risen to its all time high on Adhomai, and with the assistance of the Alliance, teachers have been brought in from off world to educate the younger generation of Tajaran. Special estbalishments for older students have also been constructed to assist the elder generation in being brought to the same level of education, but NanoTrasen has not expressed significanti nterest in this; these people make up the brunt of their low-paid workforce and they want to ensure that they are kept that way.

There are still several proponents of revolution that oppose the current government, but in the light of the previous, incredibly bloody war that rocked Adhomai, no armed conflict has been reported as of yet. Calling themselves the 'Followers', this group of revolutionaries are made up of Tajaran from almost every walk of life. Opposing corporate claims on Tajaran soil and citing mismatched development and governmental negligence as the fault of humanity, they aim to 'free Tajaran from the new shackles imposed upon them by the corproate overlords' and return Adhomai to a 'free, prospoerous planet like our ancestors dreamed of'.

[[Category:Species]]

Vaurca

2014-12-27T09:09:05Z

Covert0ddity: /* Zo'ra */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
= History [WIP]=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 15,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - "Unstoppable."

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

===Njarir’Akhran===
Njarir’Akhran - Nobleman

"The Blood Rulers"

====Njarir'Akhran Physiology====

The Njarir'Akhran, or simply the Njarir, are the ethnic group that made up the majority of the plutocracy prior to the Great War. Their lineage can be traced from careful breeding between Hharar and M'sai, leading to where they currently are today. Following recent events on Adhomai, Njarir make up less than ten percent of the population, though reports see that number reducing slowly between honor killings and hate crimes given their close relation to the Tajaran nobility. Easily identifiable by their large ears, fluffy tails, luxurious fur and slender, elegant features. Njarir suffer persecution and rejection from certain proponents of Tajaran society because of their bloodline.

Historically, Njarir comprised almost the entirety of the Tajaran nobility. Efforts were made to keep noble lines purebred, even if it led to inbreeding in clans. Those who married outside of or slept outside of their bloodline were generally disowned by their family and forced into peasant life. This accounts for practically all surviving Njarir outside of those in the Hadii clan, who serve in important parts of the federal government. As the most learned of all Tajaran ethnic groups, they boast high intelligence and have a propensity towards the arts and sciences. Many have fled Adhomai only to be offered cushy jobs elsewhere working for the Alliance, other factions, or transstellar corporations. These individuals are looked down upon even more.

Njarir'Akhran are usually the following colors

Orange (RGB 238, 64, 0)
Cinnamon (RGB 160, 82, 45)
Ruddy (RGB 138, 54, 15)
Cream (RGB 205, 175, 149)

In stark contrast to their brethren, Njarir tend toward very bright, colorful fur patterns. Typically, their fur color ranges from reddish browns to cream colors, and they do not generally have dark fur. Siamese patterns as well as tortoiseshell or patched tabby patterns were valued amongst Njarir bloodlines, and those with more intricate fur patterns were revered and admired by their fellow noblemen, and it was considered an attractive trait in a female. Despite all this, these patterns have been shown to be recessive genes in Njarir, and the most common fur pattern is simply stripes.

====Njarir'Akhran Culture====

Due to their history as the ruling class of Tajaran, many records pertaining to Njarir practices and culture were destroyed in acts of insubordination. This, coupled with the widespread burning of Njarir literature and destruction of castles, villas, and chateaus, has led to a loss of critical information in ancient Njarir practices. What is known, however, is that only a handful of Njarir were ever part of the peasantry. As stated previously, keeping the bloodline pure was almost mandated amongst the noble clans and anyone who broke this rule was exiled to a life as a peasant. Other stipulations were agreed upon to ensure the 'nobleness' of a family member. One could not marry a peasant, or involve themselves in peasant affairs unless it proved a problem to productivity. To be seen in public, a nobleman or woman were obligated to wear fanciful clothing to show their status and were discouraged from physical contact with the peasantry.

Following the Great War, almost every noble family was systematically exterminated. The only noble clan still in power is the Hadii, who serve in the Tajaran government. It has proved exceedingly difficult to acquire testimony or records from living Hadii members, who wish not to anger the Tajaran public any further due to the still unstable post-revolution period on Adhomai. Relics recovered from Njarir ruins, however, suggest that at one point they were highly religious, giving credence to the theory that these noble clans evolved from religious leaders.

Siik'maas was the widely spoken language of Njarir, though amongst themselves they preferred to use the Ya'ssa dialect. Presumed to be the traditional language of the nobility, it uses a more refined alphabet and speech pattern believed to have evolved from a less-used ancient language. Hadii members have been recorded to still use this language, though ultimately with the widespread annihilation of noble families, this language has fallen into disuse and is not taught or provided as a language able to be learned.

===M’sai===
M'sai - Hunter

"The Soldier"

====M'sai Physiology====

As the third (though only by a small margin) populous Tajaran ethnic group, the M'sai were at one point the hunters for ancient Tajaran and evolved to have lithe, slender forms, and light fur that hid them in the blizzards on Adhomai. As Tajaran society advanced, M'sai could be found in many roles related to combat, including law enforcement and military service. Not all M'sai resign themselves to these positions, however, and enjoy helping Zhan-Khazan on the country farms or performing civil duties in cities from garbage disposal to cargo inspections.

Characterized by their thin, slender forms, the M'sai are deceptively light; by Tajaran standards, they are thin. With less but thicker fur and a thinner layer of body fat, they aren't as well-insulated against Adhomai's cold as their brethren. However, this gives them the bonus of being speedier, and their bodies are designed to be aerodynamically compatible with the harsh winds of Adhomai. Where a Zhan-Khazan would stumble as he weathered the winds, a M'sai can easily and quickly sprint through without being affected. The product of millenia of breeding between Zhan-Kazan and Hharar, the M'sai are agile, intelligent, and have quick reaction times, making them ideal for high stress work.

M'sai are usually the following colors

White (RGB 238, 223, 204)
Ivory (RGB 205, 205, 192)
Wheat (RGB 205, 186, 150)
Silver (RGB 192, 192, 192)

M'sai tend toward subtle fur patterns, such as ticked fur or spots. Their lighter colors are dominant genes and usually express themselves in cross-ethnic children, overwriting the parent fur color - except in the case of mating with a Zhan-Khazan. The dark and light colors mix, leading to a diluted shade of the darker fur. As they evolved to be hunters in the snow, dark fur colors tend to be suppressed in their children, as previously stated.

====M'sai Culture====

M'sai are known to typically be mild-mannered, but can also be prone to more aggression than their brethren. M'sai make up a significant portion of the People's Army of Adhomai, with a 2454 census giving a total of sixty-two point eight percent of soldiers, airmen, and sailors having been M'sai. They are very loyal to their friends and family, but aren't as overt about it as the Zhan-Khazan. With wide eyes and acute senses, they make great soldiers, with vision adapted to compensation for the heavy blizzards that plague their home planet. They are also great survivalists, and are capable of scrounging food for themselves via hunting.

Historically, they were employed by the plutocracy to aid in hunting and ranching, though the majority made up the armies and guards of cities, villages, and towns. They also made excellent scouts, and during the Tajaran's Renaissance period, were part of cartography teams assigned to record and draw maps of then-unexplored territory in the northern regions of the planet. In the town of Davistok, a silver statue of the explorer D'nante was commissioned by its noble family for having discovered the land there the wealthy trade city was built; they were held in higher regard by the nobility who viewed them as closer cousins than the other ethnic groups.

Siik'maas and Siik'tajr were always widely used by M'sai, but the body-focused language of Nal'rassan was their creation. Because the mrowling and vocal expressions of Siik'maas could sometimes alert prey to their presence and drive them away, hunting parties adopted this language to prevent such a thing from occurring. Rebel sects saw the use of this language and took made use of it for covert discussions and the transmission of highly classified information before and during the Great War.

=Adhomai Today=

[[File:Capital.jpg|thumb|alt=The Tajaran capital.|The Tajaran capital of Nal'tor has seen great developments in recent years.]]

The Tajaran homeworld has suffered plenty in the only three decades since the end of the revolution. With the sudden injection of advanced technology into their relatively simple life, the discrepancy between modernized cities and outlying areas could not be more obvious. While the Tajaran capital boasts the most modern developments with sleek skyscrapers, advanced connections and phone lines, as well as hospitals and schools, the further you get from the larger cities, the more apparent it is that things are not quite so flashy.

Many Tajaran villages and even some cities show remnants of war; where many buildings and monuments once stood, rubble and artrillery craters are all that remain. Landmines scattered throughout the wilderness are still active and provide dangers to hunting parties or travellers, and abandoned bunkers and artillery emplacements litter the countryside. Trenches and battle sites are still being discovered, and every other week you hear a rumor about how someone had their leg blown off after stumbling into a mine field.

There is a steady stream of money being fed into the Tajaran government. NanoTrasen, as per it's agreement with the president, have set up mining and logging operations on Adhomai using the local work force for the most menial of tasks. In return, company funded clinics and schools are slowly being spread out and build in the needy areas. Tajaran resource operations are now all but nonexistant; the buildings that were once part of the nobility's small gathering efforts have now been refurbished and are being used by NanoTrasen.

Literacy has risen to its all time high on Adhomai, and with the assistance of the Alliance, teachers have been brought in from off world to educate the younger generation of Tajaran. Special estbalishments for older students have also been constructed to assist the elder generation in being brought to the same level of education, but NanoTrasen has not expressed significanti nterest in this; these people make up the brunt of their low-paid workforce and they want to ensure that they are kept that way.

There are still several proponents of revolution that oppose the current government, but in the light of the previous, incredibly bloody war that rocked Adhomai, no armed conflict has been reported as of yet. Calling themselves the 'Followers', this group of revolutionaries are made up of Tajaran from almost every walk of life. Opposing corporate claims on Tajaran soil and citing mismatched development and governmental negligence as the fault of humanity, they aim to 'free Tajaran from the new shackles imposed upon them by the corproate overlords' and return Adhomai to a 'free, prospoerous planet like our ancestors dreamed of'.

[[Category:Species]]

Vaurca

2014-12-27T09:08:35Z

Covert0ddity: /* Zo'ra */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
= History [WIP]=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 15,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - Unstoppable

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

===Njarir’Akhran===
Njarir’Akhran - Nobleman

"The Blood Rulers"

====Njarir'Akhran Physiology====

The Njarir'Akhran, or simply the Njarir, are the ethnic group that made up the majority of the plutocracy prior to the Great War. Their lineage can be traced from careful breeding between Hharar and M'sai, leading to where they currently are today. Following recent events on Adhomai, Njarir make up less than ten percent of the population, though reports see that number reducing slowly between honor killings and hate crimes given their close relation to the Tajaran nobility. Easily identifiable by their large ears, fluffy tails, luxurious fur and slender, elegant features. Njarir suffer persecution and rejection from certain proponents of Tajaran society because of their bloodline.

Historically, Njarir comprised almost the entirety of the Tajaran nobility. Efforts were made to keep noble lines purebred, even if it led to inbreeding in clans. Those who married outside of or slept outside of their bloodline were generally disowned by their family and forced into peasant life. This accounts for practically all surviving Njarir outside of those in the Hadii clan, who serve in important parts of the federal government. As the most learned of all Tajaran ethnic groups, they boast high intelligence and have a propensity towards the arts and sciences. Many have fled Adhomai only to be offered cushy jobs elsewhere working for the Alliance, other factions, or transstellar corporations. These individuals are looked down upon even more.

Njarir'Akhran are usually the following colors

Orange (RGB 238, 64, 0)
Cinnamon (RGB 160, 82, 45)
Ruddy (RGB 138, 54, 15)
Cream (RGB 205, 175, 149)

In stark contrast to their brethren, Njarir tend toward very bright, colorful fur patterns. Typically, their fur color ranges from reddish browns to cream colors, and they do not generally have dark fur. Siamese patterns as well as tortoiseshell or patched tabby patterns were valued amongst Njarir bloodlines, and those with more intricate fur patterns were revered and admired by their fellow noblemen, and it was considered an attractive trait in a female. Despite all this, these patterns have been shown to be recessive genes in Njarir, and the most common fur pattern is simply stripes.

====Njarir'Akhran Culture====

Due to their history as the ruling class of Tajaran, many records pertaining to Njarir practices and culture were destroyed in acts of insubordination. This, coupled with the widespread burning of Njarir literature and destruction of castles, villas, and chateaus, has led to a loss of critical information in ancient Njarir practices. What is known, however, is that only a handful of Njarir were ever part of the peasantry. As stated previously, keeping the bloodline pure was almost mandated amongst the noble clans and anyone who broke this rule was exiled to a life as a peasant. Other stipulations were agreed upon to ensure the 'nobleness' of a family member. One could not marry a peasant, or involve themselves in peasant affairs unless it proved a problem to productivity. To be seen in public, a nobleman or woman were obligated to wear fanciful clothing to show their status and were discouraged from physical contact with the peasantry.

Following the Great War, almost every noble family was systematically exterminated. The only noble clan still in power is the Hadii, who serve in the Tajaran government. It has proved exceedingly difficult to acquire testimony or records from living Hadii members, who wish not to anger the Tajaran public any further due to the still unstable post-revolution period on Adhomai. Relics recovered from Njarir ruins, however, suggest that at one point they were highly religious, giving credence to the theory that these noble clans evolved from religious leaders.

Siik'maas was the widely spoken language of Njarir, though amongst themselves they preferred to use the Ya'ssa dialect. Presumed to be the traditional language of the nobility, it uses a more refined alphabet and speech pattern believed to have evolved from a less-used ancient language. Hadii members have been recorded to still use this language, though ultimately with the widespread annihilation of noble families, this language has fallen into disuse and is not taught or provided as a language able to be learned.

===M’sai===
M'sai - Hunter

"The Soldier"

====M'sai Physiology====

As the third (though only by a small margin) populous Tajaran ethnic group, the M'sai were at one point the hunters for ancient Tajaran and evolved to have lithe, slender forms, and light fur that hid them in the blizzards on Adhomai. As Tajaran society advanced, M'sai could be found in many roles related to combat, including law enforcement and military service. Not all M'sai resign themselves to these positions, however, and enjoy helping Zhan-Khazan on the country farms or performing civil duties in cities from garbage disposal to cargo inspections.

Characterized by their thin, slender forms, the M'sai are deceptively light; by Tajaran standards, they are thin. With less but thicker fur and a thinner layer of body fat, they aren't as well-insulated against Adhomai's cold as their brethren. However, this gives them the bonus of being speedier, and their bodies are designed to be aerodynamically compatible with the harsh winds of Adhomai. Where a Zhan-Khazan would stumble as he weathered the winds, a M'sai can easily and quickly sprint through without being affected. The product of millenia of breeding between Zhan-Kazan and Hharar, the M'sai are agile, intelligent, and have quick reaction times, making them ideal for high stress work.

M'sai are usually the following colors

White (RGB 238, 223, 204)
Ivory (RGB 205, 205, 192)
Wheat (RGB 205, 186, 150)
Silver (RGB 192, 192, 192)

M'sai tend toward subtle fur patterns, such as ticked fur or spots. Their lighter colors are dominant genes and usually express themselves in cross-ethnic children, overwriting the parent fur color - except in the case of mating with a Zhan-Khazan. The dark and light colors mix, leading to a diluted shade of the darker fur. As they evolved to be hunters in the snow, dark fur colors tend to be suppressed in their children, as previously stated.

====M'sai Culture====

M'sai are known to typically be mild-mannered, but can also be prone to more aggression than their brethren. M'sai make up a significant portion of the People's Army of Adhomai, with a 2454 census giving a total of sixty-two point eight percent of soldiers, airmen, and sailors having been M'sai. They are very loyal to their friends and family, but aren't as overt about it as the Zhan-Khazan. With wide eyes and acute senses, they make great soldiers, with vision adapted to compensation for the heavy blizzards that plague their home planet. They are also great survivalists, and are capable of scrounging food for themselves via hunting.

Historically, they were employed by the plutocracy to aid in hunting and ranching, though the majority made up the armies and guards of cities, villages, and towns. They also made excellent scouts, and during the Tajaran's Renaissance period, were part of cartography teams assigned to record and draw maps of then-unexplored territory in the northern regions of the planet. In the town of Davistok, a silver statue of the explorer D'nante was commissioned by its noble family for having discovered the land there the wealthy trade city was built; they were held in higher regard by the nobility who viewed them as closer cousins than the other ethnic groups.

Siik'maas and Siik'tajr were always widely used by M'sai, but the body-focused language of Nal'rassan was their creation. Because the mrowling and vocal expressions of Siik'maas could sometimes alert prey to their presence and drive them away, hunting parties adopted this language to prevent such a thing from occurring. Rebel sects saw the use of this language and took made use of it for covert discussions and the transmission of highly classified information before and during the Great War.

=Adhomai Today=

[[File:Capital.jpg|thumb|alt=The Tajaran capital.|The Tajaran capital of Nal'tor has seen great developments in recent years.]]

The Tajaran homeworld has suffered plenty in the only three decades since the end of the revolution. With the sudden injection of advanced technology into their relatively simple life, the discrepancy between modernized cities and outlying areas could not be more obvious. While the Tajaran capital boasts the most modern developments with sleek skyscrapers, advanced connections and phone lines, as well as hospitals and schools, the further you get from the larger cities, the more apparent it is that things are not quite so flashy.

Many Tajaran villages and even some cities show remnants of war; where many buildings and monuments once stood, rubble and artrillery craters are all that remain. Landmines scattered throughout the wilderness are still active and provide dangers to hunting parties or travellers, and abandoned bunkers and artillery emplacements litter the countryside. Trenches and battle sites are still being discovered, and every other week you hear a rumor about how someone had their leg blown off after stumbling into a mine field.

There is a steady stream of money being fed into the Tajaran government. NanoTrasen, as per it's agreement with the president, have set up mining and logging operations on Adhomai using the local work force for the most menial of tasks. In return, company funded clinics and schools are slowly being spread out and build in the needy areas. Tajaran resource operations are now all but nonexistant; the buildings that were once part of the nobility's small gathering efforts have now been refurbished and are being used by NanoTrasen.

Literacy has risen to its all time high on Adhomai, and with the assistance of the Alliance, teachers have been brought in from off world to educate the younger generation of Tajaran. Special estbalishments for older students have also been constructed to assist the elder generation in being brought to the same level of education, but NanoTrasen has not expressed significanti nterest in this; these people make up the brunt of their low-paid workforce and they want to ensure that they are kept that way.

There are still several proponents of revolution that oppose the current government, but in the light of the previous, incredibly bloody war that rocked Adhomai, no armed conflict has been reported as of yet. Calling themselves the 'Followers', this group of revolutionaries are made up of Tajaran from almost every walk of life. Opposing corporate claims on Tajaran soil and citing mismatched development and governmental negligence as the fault of humanity, they aim to 'free Tajaran from the new shackles imposed upon them by the corproate overlords' and return Adhomai to a 'free, prospoerous planet like our ancestors dreamed of'.

[[Category:Species]]

Vaurca

2014-12-27T09:07:10Z

Covert0ddity: /* Zhan-Khazan */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
= History [WIP]=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 15,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - Unstoppable

“Common Vaurca.”

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

==K'lax==
K'lax - "The Deceivers."

===General===

K'lax, the second most powerful hive, and second discovered by humanity, after initial Bluespace gate contact. The K'lax are complete subsidiaries and a Client-Hive towards the Zo'ra hive, although they do not dislike this title. They are generally similar to the Zo'ra.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 2 currently operational, 1 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 23.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 12.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 17% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 5
*Colonies operational: 6
*Total Population projection: 30 Billion
*Type A population projection: 15.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 14.1 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 3 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Pre-warp.
*Drive type: STL.
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The K'lax hive is lagging far behind due to their status as client-hive towards the Zo'ra. While the second largest population wise, they are certainly nothing compared to the might of the Zo'ra hive.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Neutral.
*Republic of Biesel: Neutral.
*Eridani Federation: Good.
*Republic of Elyra: Neutral.
*Syndicate: Neutral.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Allied. (Client Hive.)
*Vess'ex: Good.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: Cool.
*F'iosi: Cool.
*Zat'ios: Cool.

===Njarir’Akhran===
Njarir’Akhran - Nobleman

"The Blood Rulers"

====Njarir'Akhran Physiology====

The Njarir'Akhran, or simply the Njarir, are the ethnic group that made up the majority of the plutocracy prior to the Great War. Their lineage can be traced from careful breeding between Hharar and M'sai, leading to where they currently are today. Following recent events on Adhomai, Njarir make up less than ten percent of the population, though reports see that number reducing slowly between honor killings and hate crimes given their close relation to the Tajaran nobility. Easily identifiable by their large ears, fluffy tails, luxurious fur and slender, elegant features. Njarir suffer persecution and rejection from certain proponents of Tajaran society because of their bloodline.

Historically, Njarir comprised almost the entirety of the Tajaran nobility. Efforts were made to keep noble lines purebred, even if it led to inbreeding in clans. Those who married outside of or slept outside of their bloodline were generally disowned by their family and forced into peasant life. This accounts for practically all surviving Njarir outside of those in the Hadii clan, who serve in important parts of the federal government. As the most learned of all Tajaran ethnic groups, they boast high intelligence and have a propensity towards the arts and sciences. Many have fled Adhomai only to be offered cushy jobs elsewhere working for the Alliance, other factions, or transstellar corporations. These individuals are looked down upon even more.

Njarir'Akhran are usually the following colors

Orange (RGB 238, 64, 0)
Cinnamon (RGB 160, 82, 45)
Ruddy (RGB 138, 54, 15)
Cream (RGB 205, 175, 149)

In stark contrast to their brethren, Njarir tend toward very bright, colorful fur patterns. Typically, their fur color ranges from reddish browns to cream colors, and they do not generally have dark fur. Siamese patterns as well as tortoiseshell or patched tabby patterns were valued amongst Njarir bloodlines, and those with more intricate fur patterns were revered and admired by their fellow noblemen, and it was considered an attractive trait in a female. Despite all this, these patterns have been shown to be recessive genes in Njarir, and the most common fur pattern is simply stripes.

====Njarir'Akhran Culture====

Due to their history as the ruling class of Tajaran, many records pertaining to Njarir practices and culture were destroyed in acts of insubordination. This, coupled with the widespread burning of Njarir literature and destruction of castles, villas, and chateaus, has led to a loss of critical information in ancient Njarir practices. What is known, however, is that only a handful of Njarir were ever part of the peasantry. As stated previously, keeping the bloodline pure was almost mandated amongst the noble clans and anyone who broke this rule was exiled to a life as a peasant. Other stipulations were agreed upon to ensure the 'nobleness' of a family member. One could not marry a peasant, or involve themselves in peasant affairs unless it proved a problem to productivity. To be seen in public, a nobleman or woman were obligated to wear fanciful clothing to show their status and were discouraged from physical contact with the peasantry.

Following the Great War, almost every noble family was systematically exterminated. The only noble clan still in power is the Hadii, who serve in the Tajaran government. It has proved exceedingly difficult to acquire testimony or records from living Hadii members, who wish not to anger the Tajaran public any further due to the still unstable post-revolution period on Adhomai. Relics recovered from Njarir ruins, however, suggest that at one point they were highly religious, giving credence to the theory that these noble clans evolved from religious leaders.

Siik'maas was the widely spoken language of Njarir, though amongst themselves they preferred to use the Ya'ssa dialect. Presumed to be the traditional language of the nobility, it uses a more refined alphabet and speech pattern believed to have evolved from a less-used ancient language. Hadii members have been recorded to still use this language, though ultimately with the widespread annihilation of noble families, this language has fallen into disuse and is not taught or provided as a language able to be learned.

===M’sai===
M'sai - Hunter

"The Soldier"

====M'sai Physiology====

As the third (though only by a small margin) populous Tajaran ethnic group, the M'sai were at one point the hunters for ancient Tajaran and evolved to have lithe, slender forms, and light fur that hid them in the blizzards on Adhomai. As Tajaran society advanced, M'sai could be found in many roles related to combat, including law enforcement and military service. Not all M'sai resign themselves to these positions, however, and enjoy helping Zhan-Khazan on the country farms or performing civil duties in cities from garbage disposal to cargo inspections.

Characterized by their thin, slender forms, the M'sai are deceptively light; by Tajaran standards, they are thin. With less but thicker fur and a thinner layer of body fat, they aren't as well-insulated against Adhomai's cold as their brethren. However, this gives them the bonus of being speedier, and their bodies are designed to be aerodynamically compatible with the harsh winds of Adhomai. Where a Zhan-Khazan would stumble as he weathered the winds, a M'sai can easily and quickly sprint through without being affected. The product of millenia of breeding between Zhan-Kazan and Hharar, the M'sai are agile, intelligent, and have quick reaction times, making them ideal for high stress work.

M'sai are usually the following colors

White (RGB 238, 223, 204)
Ivory (RGB 205, 205, 192)
Wheat (RGB 205, 186, 150)
Silver (RGB 192, 192, 192)

M'sai tend toward subtle fur patterns, such as ticked fur or spots. Their lighter colors are dominant genes and usually express themselves in cross-ethnic children, overwriting the parent fur color - except in the case of mating with a Zhan-Khazan. The dark and light colors mix, leading to a diluted shade of the darker fur. As they evolved to be hunters in the snow, dark fur colors tend to be suppressed in their children, as previously stated.

====M'sai Culture====

M'sai are known to typically be mild-mannered, but can also be prone to more aggression than their brethren. M'sai make up a significant portion of the People's Army of Adhomai, with a 2454 census giving a total of sixty-two point eight percent of soldiers, airmen, and sailors having been M'sai. They are very loyal to their friends and family, but aren't as overt about it as the Zhan-Khazan. With wide eyes and acute senses, they make great soldiers, with vision adapted to compensation for the heavy blizzards that plague their home planet. They are also great survivalists, and are capable of scrounging food for themselves via hunting.

Historically, they were employed by the plutocracy to aid in hunting and ranching, though the majority made up the armies and guards of cities, villages, and towns. They also made excellent scouts, and during the Tajaran's Renaissance period, were part of cartography teams assigned to record and draw maps of then-unexplored territory in the northern regions of the planet. In the town of Davistok, a silver statue of the explorer D'nante was commissioned by its noble family for having discovered the land there the wealthy trade city was built; they were held in higher regard by the nobility who viewed them as closer cousins than the other ethnic groups.

Siik'maas and Siik'tajr were always widely used by M'sai, but the body-focused language of Nal'rassan was their creation. Because the mrowling and vocal expressions of Siik'maas could sometimes alert prey to their presence and drive them away, hunting parties adopted this language to prevent such a thing from occurring. Rebel sects saw the use of this language and took made use of it for covert discussions and the transmission of highly classified information before and during the Great War.

=Adhomai Today=

[[File:Capital.jpg|thumb|alt=The Tajaran capital.|The Tajaran capital of Nal'tor has seen great developments in recent years.]]

The Tajaran homeworld has suffered plenty in the only three decades since the end of the revolution. With the sudden injection of advanced technology into their relatively simple life, the discrepancy between modernized cities and outlying areas could not be more obvious. While the Tajaran capital boasts the most modern developments with sleek skyscrapers, advanced connections and phone lines, as well as hospitals and schools, the further you get from the larger cities, the more apparent it is that things are not quite so flashy.

Many Tajaran villages and even some cities show remnants of war; where many buildings and monuments once stood, rubble and artrillery craters are all that remain. Landmines scattered throughout the wilderness are still active and provide dangers to hunting parties or travellers, and abandoned bunkers and artillery emplacements litter the countryside. Trenches and battle sites are still being discovered, and every other week you hear a rumor about how someone had their leg blown off after stumbling into a mine field.

There is a steady stream of money being fed into the Tajaran government. NanoTrasen, as per it's agreement with the president, have set up mining and logging operations on Adhomai using the local work force for the most menial of tasks. In return, company funded clinics and schools are slowly being spread out and build in the needy areas. Tajaran resource operations are now all but nonexistant; the buildings that were once part of the nobility's small gathering efforts have now been refurbished and are being used by NanoTrasen.

Literacy has risen to its all time high on Adhomai, and with the assistance of the Alliance, teachers have been brought in from off world to educate the younger generation of Tajaran. Special estbalishments for older students have also been constructed to assist the elder generation in being brought to the same level of education, but NanoTrasen has not expressed significanti nterest in this; these people make up the brunt of their low-paid workforce and they want to ensure that they are kept that way.

There are still several proponents of revolution that oppose the current government, but in the light of the previous, incredibly bloody war that rocked Adhomai, no armed conflict has been reported as of yet. Calling themselves the 'Followers', this group of revolutionaries are made up of Tajaran from almost every walk of life. Opposing corporate claims on Tajaran soil and citing mismatched development and governmental negligence as the fault of humanity, they aim to 'free Tajaran from the new shackles imposed upon them by the corproate overlords' and return Adhomai to a 'free, prospoerous planet like our ancestors dreamed of'.

[[Category:Species]]

Vaurca

2014-12-27T08:56:53Z

Covert0ddity: /* Relations Summary */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
= History [WIP]=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 15,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - Unstoppable

“Common Vaurca.”

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
*Humanity: Good.
*Skrell: Good.
*Unathi: Neutral.
*Tajaran: Neutral.
*Diona: Neutral.
*Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
*Sol Alliance: Allied.
*Republic of Biesel: Allied.
*Eridani Federation: Neutral.
*Republic of Elyra: Cool.
*Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
*K'lax: Client-Hive.
*Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
*Lii'dra: War.
*V'scal: War.
*F'iosi: War.
*Zat'ios: War.

===Zhan-Khazan===
Zhan-Khazan - Mountain-Keeper

“The Workhorse”

====Zhan-Khazan Physiology====

Zhan-Khazan are the second most populous of Tajaran ethnicities, and are considered to be the backbone of the Tajaran workforce. Their history as an ethnicity is one not well documented; very little historical texts describing them were preserved in the wake of the Great War, and archaeological dig sites are difficult to preserve given the climate of Adhomai. What is known, however, is that the Zhan-Khazan were at one point a race of cave-and-mountain dwelling Tajaran that traditionally were entrusted with physical work like mining, farming, ranching, and logging.

Because of their history of hard work and the way they adapted to harsh mountain life, Zhan-Khazan are more physically intimidating than their close relatives, the M'sai. Featuring more toned, muscular bodies, thicker fur coats, and a heavier body weight, they are well-suited to tasks requiring brute strength and heavy lifting. They are by no means less intelligent than the Hharar, but most Zhan-Khazan do not pursue the same type of work. Zhan-Khazan make up a significant amount of Tajaran employed in resource gathering, construction, civil jobs such as law enforcement and even culinary work such as butchering.

Zhan-Khazan as a group are usually the following colors

Blue-Grey (RGB 34, 37, 50)
Dark Gray (RGB 30, 30, 30)
Chocolate (RGB 94, 38, 18)

Zhan-Khazan fur patterns are remarkably simple, usually consisting of only dark solid colors or at the most ticked fur or tabby stripes. They are capable of lighter colors and more varied fur patterns, but these are rare, recessive traits present in pure Zhan-Khazan bloodlines. Those that breed outside of their ethnicity have a higher chance of passing on their dark fur, as their genes are more dominant compared to other ethnic groups. These genes are present in both male and female parents.

====Zhan-Khazan Culture====

For most of Tajaran history, Zhan-Khazan were tasked with more difficult work as they were more suited to physical labor than their brethren. They were subject to harsher punishments and more repressive mandates as the plutocracy viewed them as lesser to other Tajaran. Faced with work that segregated them from most settlements, the Zhan-Khazan have grown to be incredibly protective of their families and their own and follow traditional family values closely. Things like arranged marriages, inter-clan courting and gift-giving, and clan alliances were and are exceedingly common for Zhan-Khazan, and they support a close family life style. Those who go against their family face exile from their small, tight-knit communities. Zhan-Khazan also hold their co-workers in similar high regard, though not as much as blood ties.

Many Zhan-Khazan worship the Snow God, and scholars believe this faith was invented by this ethnic group. Small shrines are a common sight amongst settlements of or having a high population of Zhan-Khazan, and they hold very active, evangelical services. As such, many Zhan-Khazan take the teachings of the Snow God to heart, including unification amongst Tajaran. They care immensely about the future of their species and most do what they can for the betterment of Tajaran as a whole. Zhan-Khazan are highly valued agricultural and mining experts, and they make up almost seventy percent of the farmer and rancher population of Adhomai.

Like all other Tajaran, Siik'maas and Siik'tajr are the 'official' language of the Zhan-Khazan, but they were the inventors of the lesser dialect of Delvahhi. This language is still widely used in religious ceremonies dedicated to the Snow God and amongst settlements comprised mostly of Zhan-Khazan. It is also the favored language of farmers, who have adopted it in the wake of government intrusions into the agricultural industry of Adhomai.

===Njarir’Akhran===
Njarir’Akhran - Nobleman

"The Blood Rulers"

====Njarir'Akhran Physiology====

The Njarir'Akhran, or simply the Njarir, are the ethnic group that made up the majority of the plutocracy prior to the Great War. Their lineage can be traced from careful breeding between Hharar and M'sai, leading to where they currently are today. Following recent events on Adhomai, Njarir make up less than ten percent of the population, though reports see that number reducing slowly between honor killings and hate crimes given their close relation to the Tajaran nobility. Easily identifiable by their large ears, fluffy tails, luxurious fur and slender, elegant features. Njarir suffer persecution and rejection from certain proponents of Tajaran society because of their bloodline.

Historically, Njarir comprised almost the entirety of the Tajaran nobility. Efforts were made to keep noble lines purebred, even if it led to inbreeding in clans. Those who married outside of or slept outside of their bloodline were generally disowned by their family and forced into peasant life. This accounts for practically all surviving Njarir outside of those in the Hadii clan, who serve in important parts of the federal government. As the most learned of all Tajaran ethnic groups, they boast high intelligence and have a propensity towards the arts and sciences. Many have fled Adhomai only to be offered cushy jobs elsewhere working for the Alliance, other factions, or transstellar corporations. These individuals are looked down upon even more.

Njarir'Akhran are usually the following colors

Orange (RGB 238, 64, 0)
Cinnamon (RGB 160, 82, 45)
Ruddy (RGB 138, 54, 15)
Cream (RGB 205, 175, 149)

In stark contrast to their brethren, Njarir tend toward very bright, colorful fur patterns. Typically, their fur color ranges from reddish browns to cream colors, and they do not generally have dark fur. Siamese patterns as well as tortoiseshell or patched tabby patterns were valued amongst Njarir bloodlines, and those with more intricate fur patterns were revered and admired by their fellow noblemen, and it was considered an attractive trait in a female. Despite all this, these patterns have been shown to be recessive genes in Njarir, and the most common fur pattern is simply stripes.

====Njarir'Akhran Culture====

Due to their history as the ruling class of Tajaran, many records pertaining to Njarir practices and culture were destroyed in acts of insubordination. This, coupled with the widespread burning of Njarir literature and destruction of castles, villas, and chateaus, has led to a loss of critical information in ancient Njarir practices. What is known, however, is that only a handful of Njarir were ever part of the peasantry. As stated previously, keeping the bloodline pure was almost mandated amongst the noble clans and anyone who broke this rule was exiled to a life as a peasant. Other stipulations were agreed upon to ensure the 'nobleness' of a family member. One could not marry a peasant, or involve themselves in peasant affairs unless it proved a problem to productivity. To be seen in public, a nobleman or woman were obligated to wear fanciful clothing to show their status and were discouraged from physical contact with the peasantry.

Following the Great War, almost every noble family was systematically exterminated. The only noble clan still in power is the Hadii, who serve in the Tajaran government. It has proved exceedingly difficult to acquire testimony or records from living Hadii members, who wish not to anger the Tajaran public any further due to the still unstable post-revolution period on Adhomai. Relics recovered from Njarir ruins, however, suggest that at one point they were highly religious, giving credence to the theory that these noble clans evolved from religious leaders.

Siik'maas was the widely spoken language of Njarir, though amongst themselves they preferred to use the Ya'ssa dialect. Presumed to be the traditional language of the nobility, it uses a more refined alphabet and speech pattern believed to have evolved from a less-used ancient language. Hadii members have been recorded to still use this language, though ultimately with the widespread annihilation of noble families, this language has fallen into disuse and is not taught or provided as a language able to be learned.

===M’sai===
M'sai - Hunter

"The Soldier"

====M'sai Physiology====

As the third (though only by a small margin) populous Tajaran ethnic group, the M'sai were at one point the hunters for ancient Tajaran and evolved to have lithe, slender forms, and light fur that hid them in the blizzards on Adhomai. As Tajaran society advanced, M'sai could be found in many roles related to combat, including law enforcement and military service. Not all M'sai resign themselves to these positions, however, and enjoy helping Zhan-Khazan on the country farms or performing civil duties in cities from garbage disposal to cargo inspections.

Characterized by their thin, slender forms, the M'sai are deceptively light; by Tajaran standards, they are thin. With less but thicker fur and a thinner layer of body fat, they aren't as well-insulated against Adhomai's cold as their brethren. However, this gives them the bonus of being speedier, and their bodies are designed to be aerodynamically compatible with the harsh winds of Adhomai. Where a Zhan-Khazan would stumble as he weathered the winds, a M'sai can easily and quickly sprint through without being affected. The product of millenia of breeding between Zhan-Kazan and Hharar, the M'sai are agile, intelligent, and have quick reaction times, making them ideal for high stress work.

M'sai are usually the following colors

White (RGB 238, 223, 204)
Ivory (RGB 205, 205, 192)
Wheat (RGB 205, 186, 150)
Silver (RGB 192, 192, 192)

M'sai tend toward subtle fur patterns, such as ticked fur or spots. Their lighter colors are dominant genes and usually express themselves in cross-ethnic children, overwriting the parent fur color - except in the case of mating with a Zhan-Khazan. The dark and light colors mix, leading to a diluted shade of the darker fur. As they evolved to be hunters in the snow, dark fur colors tend to be suppressed in their children, as previously stated.

====M'sai Culture====

M'sai are known to typically be mild-mannered, but can also be prone to more aggression than their brethren. M'sai make up a significant portion of the People's Army of Adhomai, with a 2454 census giving a total of sixty-two point eight percent of soldiers, airmen, and sailors having been M'sai. They are very loyal to their friends and family, but aren't as overt about it as the Zhan-Khazan. With wide eyes and acute senses, they make great soldiers, with vision adapted to compensation for the heavy blizzards that plague their home planet. They are also great survivalists, and are capable of scrounging food for themselves via hunting.

Historically, they were employed by the plutocracy to aid in hunting and ranching, though the majority made up the armies and guards of cities, villages, and towns. They also made excellent scouts, and during the Tajaran's Renaissance period, were part of cartography teams assigned to record and draw maps of then-unexplored territory in the northern regions of the planet. In the town of Davistok, a silver statue of the explorer D'nante was commissioned by its noble family for having discovered the land there the wealthy trade city was built; they were held in higher regard by the nobility who viewed them as closer cousins than the other ethnic groups.

Siik'maas and Siik'tajr were always widely used by M'sai, but the body-focused language of Nal'rassan was their creation. Because the mrowling and vocal expressions of Siik'maas could sometimes alert prey to their presence and drive them away, hunting parties adopted this language to prevent such a thing from occurring. Rebel sects saw the use of this language and took made use of it for covert discussions and the transmission of highly classified information before and during the Great War.

=Adhomai Today=

[[File:Capital.jpg|thumb|alt=The Tajaran capital.|The Tajaran capital of Nal'tor has seen great developments in recent years.]]

The Tajaran homeworld has suffered plenty in the only three decades since the end of the revolution. With the sudden injection of advanced technology into their relatively simple life, the discrepancy between modernized cities and outlying areas could not be more obvious. While the Tajaran capital boasts the most modern developments with sleek skyscrapers, advanced connections and phone lines, as well as hospitals and schools, the further you get from the larger cities, the more apparent it is that things are not quite so flashy.

Many Tajaran villages and even some cities show remnants of war; where many buildings and monuments once stood, rubble and artrillery craters are all that remain. Landmines scattered throughout the wilderness are still active and provide dangers to hunting parties or travellers, and abandoned bunkers and artillery emplacements litter the countryside. Trenches and battle sites are still being discovered, and every other week you hear a rumor about how someone had their leg blown off after stumbling into a mine field.

There is a steady stream of money being fed into the Tajaran government. NanoTrasen, as per it's agreement with the president, have set up mining and logging operations on Adhomai using the local work force for the most menial of tasks. In return, company funded clinics and schools are slowly being spread out and build in the needy areas. Tajaran resource operations are now all but nonexistant; the buildings that were once part of the nobility's small gathering efforts have now been refurbished and are being used by NanoTrasen.

Literacy has risen to its all time high on Adhomai, and with the assistance of the Alliance, teachers have been brought in from off world to educate the younger generation of Tajaran. Special estbalishments for older students have also been constructed to assist the elder generation in being brought to the same level of education, but NanoTrasen has not expressed significanti nterest in this; these people make up the brunt of their low-paid workforce and they want to ensure that they are kept that way.

There are still several proponents of revolution that oppose the current government, but in the light of the previous, incredibly bloody war that rocked Adhomai, no armed conflict has been reported as of yet. Calling themselves the 'Followers', this group of revolutionaries are made up of Tajaran from almost every walk of life. Opposing corporate claims on Tajaran soil and citing mismatched development and governmental negligence as the fault of humanity, they aim to 'free Tajaran from the new shackles imposed upon them by the corproate overlords' and return Adhomai to a 'free, prospoerous planet like our ancestors dreamed of'.

[[Category:Species]]

Vaurca

2014-12-27T08:55:45Z

Covert0ddity: /* Relations Summary */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
= History [WIP]=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 15,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - Unstoppable

“Common Vaurca.”

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

*Races:
Humanity: Good.
Skrell: Good.
Unathi: Neutral.
Tajaran: Neutral.
Diona: Neutral.
Vox: Cool.

*Human Factions:
Sol Alliance: Allied.
Republic of Biesel: Allied.
Eridani Federation: Neutral.
Republic of Elyra: Cool.
Syndicate: Hostile.

*Other Hives:
K'lax: Client-Hive.
Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
Lii'dra: War.
V'scal: War.
F'iosi: War.
Zat'ios: War.

===Zhan-Khazan===
Zhan-Khazan - Mountain-Keeper

“The Workhorse”

====Zhan-Khazan Physiology====

Zhan-Khazan are the second most populous of Tajaran ethnicities, and are considered to be the backbone of the Tajaran workforce. Their history as an ethnicity is one not well documented; very little historical texts describing them were preserved in the wake of the Great War, and archaeological dig sites are difficult to preserve given the climate of Adhomai. What is known, however, is that the Zhan-Khazan were at one point a race of cave-and-mountain dwelling Tajaran that traditionally were entrusted with physical work like mining, farming, ranching, and logging.

Because of their history of hard work and the way they adapted to harsh mountain life, Zhan-Khazan are more physically intimidating than their close relatives, the M'sai. Featuring more toned, muscular bodies, thicker fur coats, and a heavier body weight, they are well-suited to tasks requiring brute strength and heavy lifting. They are by no means less intelligent than the Hharar, but most Zhan-Khazan do not pursue the same type of work. Zhan-Khazan make up a significant amount of Tajaran employed in resource gathering, construction, civil jobs such as law enforcement and even culinary work such as butchering.

Zhan-Khazan as a group are usually the following colors

Blue-Grey (RGB 34, 37, 50)
Dark Gray (RGB 30, 30, 30)
Chocolate (RGB 94, 38, 18)

Zhan-Khazan fur patterns are remarkably simple, usually consisting of only dark solid colors or at the most ticked fur or tabby stripes. They are capable of lighter colors and more varied fur patterns, but these are rare, recessive traits present in pure Zhan-Khazan bloodlines. Those that breed outside of their ethnicity have a higher chance of passing on their dark fur, as their genes are more dominant compared to other ethnic groups. These genes are present in both male and female parents.

====Zhan-Khazan Culture====

For most of Tajaran history, Zhan-Khazan were tasked with more difficult work as they were more suited to physical labor than their brethren. They were subject to harsher punishments and more repressive mandates as the plutocracy viewed them as lesser to other Tajaran. Faced with work that segregated them from most settlements, the Zhan-Khazan have grown to be incredibly protective of their families and their own and follow traditional family values closely. Things like arranged marriages, inter-clan courting and gift-giving, and clan alliances were and are exceedingly common for Zhan-Khazan, and they support a close family life style. Those who go against their family face exile from their small, tight-knit communities. Zhan-Khazan also hold their co-workers in similar high regard, though not as much as blood ties.

Many Zhan-Khazan worship the Snow God, and scholars believe this faith was invented by this ethnic group. Small shrines are a common sight amongst settlements of or having a high population of Zhan-Khazan, and they hold very active, evangelical services. As such, many Zhan-Khazan take the teachings of the Snow God to heart, including unification amongst Tajaran. They care immensely about the future of their species and most do what they can for the betterment of Tajaran as a whole. Zhan-Khazan are highly valued agricultural and mining experts, and they make up almost seventy percent of the farmer and rancher population of Adhomai.

Like all other Tajaran, Siik'maas and Siik'tajr are the 'official' language of the Zhan-Khazan, but they were the inventors of the lesser dialect of Delvahhi. This language is still widely used in religious ceremonies dedicated to the Snow God and amongst settlements comprised mostly of Zhan-Khazan. It is also the favored language of farmers, who have adopted it in the wake of government intrusions into the agricultural industry of Adhomai.

===Njarir’Akhran===
Njarir’Akhran - Nobleman

"The Blood Rulers"

====Njarir'Akhran Physiology====

The Njarir'Akhran, or simply the Njarir, are the ethnic group that made up the majority of the plutocracy prior to the Great War. Their lineage can be traced from careful breeding between Hharar and M'sai, leading to where they currently are today. Following recent events on Adhomai, Njarir make up less than ten percent of the population, though reports see that number reducing slowly between honor killings and hate crimes given their close relation to the Tajaran nobility. Easily identifiable by their large ears, fluffy tails, luxurious fur and slender, elegant features. Njarir suffer persecution and rejection from certain proponents of Tajaran society because of their bloodline.

Historically, Njarir comprised almost the entirety of the Tajaran nobility. Efforts were made to keep noble lines purebred, even if it led to inbreeding in clans. Those who married outside of or slept outside of their bloodline were generally disowned by their family and forced into peasant life. This accounts for practically all surviving Njarir outside of those in the Hadii clan, who serve in important parts of the federal government. As the most learned of all Tajaran ethnic groups, they boast high intelligence and have a propensity towards the arts and sciences. Many have fled Adhomai only to be offered cushy jobs elsewhere working for the Alliance, other factions, or transstellar corporations. These individuals are looked down upon even more.

Njarir'Akhran are usually the following colors

Orange (RGB 238, 64, 0)
Cinnamon (RGB 160, 82, 45)
Ruddy (RGB 138, 54, 15)
Cream (RGB 205, 175, 149)

In stark contrast to their brethren, Njarir tend toward very bright, colorful fur patterns. Typically, their fur color ranges from reddish browns to cream colors, and they do not generally have dark fur. Siamese patterns as well as tortoiseshell or patched tabby patterns were valued amongst Njarir bloodlines, and those with more intricate fur patterns were revered and admired by their fellow noblemen, and it was considered an attractive trait in a female. Despite all this, these patterns have been shown to be recessive genes in Njarir, and the most common fur pattern is simply stripes.

====Njarir'Akhran Culture====

Due to their history as the ruling class of Tajaran, many records pertaining to Njarir practices and culture were destroyed in acts of insubordination. This, coupled with the widespread burning of Njarir literature and destruction of castles, villas, and chateaus, has led to a loss of critical information in ancient Njarir practices. What is known, however, is that only a handful of Njarir were ever part of the peasantry. As stated previously, keeping the bloodline pure was almost mandated amongst the noble clans and anyone who broke this rule was exiled to a life as a peasant. Other stipulations were agreed upon to ensure the 'nobleness' of a family member. One could not marry a peasant, or involve themselves in peasant affairs unless it proved a problem to productivity. To be seen in public, a nobleman or woman were obligated to wear fanciful clothing to show their status and were discouraged from physical contact with the peasantry.

Following the Great War, almost every noble family was systematically exterminated. The only noble clan still in power is the Hadii, who serve in the Tajaran government. It has proved exceedingly difficult to acquire testimony or records from living Hadii members, who wish not to anger the Tajaran public any further due to the still unstable post-revolution period on Adhomai. Relics recovered from Njarir ruins, however, suggest that at one point they were highly religious, giving credence to the theory that these noble clans evolved from religious leaders.

Siik'maas was the widely spoken language of Njarir, though amongst themselves they preferred to use the Ya'ssa dialect. Presumed to be the traditional language of the nobility, it uses a more refined alphabet and speech pattern believed to have evolved from a less-used ancient language. Hadii members have been recorded to still use this language, though ultimately with the widespread annihilation of noble families, this language has fallen into disuse and is not taught or provided as a language able to be learned.

===M’sai===
M'sai - Hunter

"The Soldier"

====M'sai Physiology====

As the third (though only by a small margin) populous Tajaran ethnic group, the M'sai were at one point the hunters for ancient Tajaran and evolved to have lithe, slender forms, and light fur that hid them in the blizzards on Adhomai. As Tajaran society advanced, M'sai could be found in many roles related to combat, including law enforcement and military service. Not all M'sai resign themselves to these positions, however, and enjoy helping Zhan-Khazan on the country farms or performing civil duties in cities from garbage disposal to cargo inspections.

Characterized by their thin, slender forms, the M'sai are deceptively light; by Tajaran standards, they are thin. With less but thicker fur and a thinner layer of body fat, they aren't as well-insulated against Adhomai's cold as their brethren. However, this gives them the bonus of being speedier, and their bodies are designed to be aerodynamically compatible with the harsh winds of Adhomai. Where a Zhan-Khazan would stumble as he weathered the winds, a M'sai can easily and quickly sprint through without being affected. The product of millenia of breeding between Zhan-Kazan and Hharar, the M'sai are agile, intelligent, and have quick reaction times, making them ideal for high stress work.

M'sai are usually the following colors

White (RGB 238, 223, 204)
Ivory (RGB 205, 205, 192)
Wheat (RGB 205, 186, 150)
Silver (RGB 192, 192, 192)

M'sai tend toward subtle fur patterns, such as ticked fur or spots. Their lighter colors are dominant genes and usually express themselves in cross-ethnic children, overwriting the parent fur color - except in the case of mating with a Zhan-Khazan. The dark and light colors mix, leading to a diluted shade of the darker fur. As they evolved to be hunters in the snow, dark fur colors tend to be suppressed in their children, as previously stated.

====M'sai Culture====

M'sai are known to typically be mild-mannered, but can also be prone to more aggression than their brethren. M'sai make up a significant portion of the People's Army of Adhomai, with a 2454 census giving a total of sixty-two point eight percent of soldiers, airmen, and sailors having been M'sai. They are very loyal to their friends and family, but aren't as overt about it as the Zhan-Khazan. With wide eyes and acute senses, they make great soldiers, with vision adapted to compensation for the heavy blizzards that plague their home planet. They are also great survivalists, and are capable of scrounging food for themselves via hunting.

Historically, they were employed by the plutocracy to aid in hunting and ranching, though the majority made up the armies and guards of cities, villages, and towns. They also made excellent scouts, and during the Tajaran's Renaissance period, were part of cartography teams assigned to record and draw maps of then-unexplored territory in the northern regions of the planet. In the town of Davistok, a silver statue of the explorer D'nante was commissioned by its noble family for having discovered the land there the wealthy trade city was built; they were held in higher regard by the nobility who viewed them as closer cousins than the other ethnic groups.

Siik'maas and Siik'tajr were always widely used by M'sai, but the body-focused language of Nal'rassan was their creation. Because the mrowling and vocal expressions of Siik'maas could sometimes alert prey to their presence and drive them away, hunting parties adopted this language to prevent such a thing from occurring. Rebel sects saw the use of this language and took made use of it for covert discussions and the transmission of highly classified information before and during the Great War.

=Adhomai Today=

[[File:Capital.jpg|thumb|alt=The Tajaran capital.|The Tajaran capital of Nal'tor has seen great developments in recent years.]]

The Tajaran homeworld has suffered plenty in the only three decades since the end of the revolution. With the sudden injection of advanced technology into their relatively simple life, the discrepancy between modernized cities and outlying areas could not be more obvious. While the Tajaran capital boasts the most modern developments with sleek skyscrapers, advanced connections and phone lines, as well as hospitals and schools, the further you get from the larger cities, the more apparent it is that things are not quite so flashy.

Many Tajaran villages and even some cities show remnants of war; where many buildings and monuments once stood, rubble and artrillery craters are all that remain. Landmines scattered throughout the wilderness are still active and provide dangers to hunting parties or travellers, and abandoned bunkers and artillery emplacements litter the countryside. Trenches and battle sites are still being discovered, and every other week you hear a rumor about how someone had their leg blown off after stumbling into a mine field.

There is a steady stream of money being fed into the Tajaran government. NanoTrasen, as per it's agreement with the president, have set up mining and logging operations on Adhomai using the local work force for the most menial of tasks. In return, company funded clinics and schools are slowly being spread out and build in the needy areas. Tajaran resource operations are now all but nonexistant; the buildings that were once part of the nobility's small gathering efforts have now been refurbished and are being used by NanoTrasen.

Literacy has risen to its all time high on Adhomai, and with the assistance of the Alliance, teachers have been brought in from off world to educate the younger generation of Tajaran. Special estbalishments for older students have also been constructed to assist the elder generation in being brought to the same level of education, but NanoTrasen has not expressed significanti nterest in this; these people make up the brunt of their low-paid workforce and they want to ensure that they are kept that way.

There are still several proponents of revolution that oppose the current government, but in the light of the previous, incredibly bloody war that rocked Adhomai, no armed conflict has been reported as of yet. Calling themselves the 'Followers', this group of revolutionaries are made up of Tajaran from almost every walk of life. Opposing corporate claims on Tajaran soil and citing mismatched development and governmental negligence as the fault of humanity, they aim to 'free Tajaran from the new shackles imposed upon them by the corproate overlords' and return Adhomai to a 'free, prospoerous planet like our ancestors dreamed of'.

[[Category:Species]]

Vaurca

2014-12-27T08:55:08Z

Covert0ddity: /* Technological Projection */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
= History [WIP]=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 15,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - Unstoppable

“Common Vaurca.”

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

*Rating: Advanced.
*Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
*Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
*Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about *even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have *equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
Humanity: Good.
Skrell: Good.
Unathi: Neutral.
Tajaran: Neutral.
Diona: Neutral.
Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
Sol Alliance: Allied.
Republic of Biesel: Allied.
Eridani Federation: Neutral.
Republic of Elyra: Cool.
Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
K'lax: Client-Hive.
Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
Lii'dra: War.
V'scal: War.
F'iosi: War.
Zat'ios: War.

===Zhan-Khazan===
Zhan-Khazan - Mountain-Keeper

“The Workhorse”

====Zhan-Khazan Physiology====

Zhan-Khazan are the second most populous of Tajaran ethnicities, and are considered to be the backbone of the Tajaran workforce. Their history as an ethnicity is one not well documented; very little historical texts describing them were preserved in the wake of the Great War, and archaeological dig sites are difficult to preserve given the climate of Adhomai. What is known, however, is that the Zhan-Khazan were at one point a race of cave-and-mountain dwelling Tajaran that traditionally were entrusted with physical work like mining, farming, ranching, and logging.

Because of their history of hard work and the way they adapted to harsh mountain life, Zhan-Khazan are more physically intimidating than their close relatives, the M'sai. Featuring more toned, muscular bodies, thicker fur coats, and a heavier body weight, they are well-suited to tasks requiring brute strength and heavy lifting. They are by no means less intelligent than the Hharar, but most Zhan-Khazan do not pursue the same type of work. Zhan-Khazan make up a significant amount of Tajaran employed in resource gathering, construction, civil jobs such as law enforcement and even culinary work such as butchering.

Zhan-Khazan as a group are usually the following colors

Blue-Grey (RGB 34, 37, 50)
Dark Gray (RGB 30, 30, 30)
Chocolate (RGB 94, 38, 18)

Zhan-Khazan fur patterns are remarkably simple, usually consisting of only dark solid colors or at the most ticked fur or tabby stripes. They are capable of lighter colors and more varied fur patterns, but these are rare, recessive traits present in pure Zhan-Khazan bloodlines. Those that breed outside of their ethnicity have a higher chance of passing on their dark fur, as their genes are more dominant compared to other ethnic groups. These genes are present in both male and female parents.

====Zhan-Khazan Culture====

For most of Tajaran history, Zhan-Khazan were tasked with more difficult work as they were more suited to physical labor than their brethren. They were subject to harsher punishments and more repressive mandates as the plutocracy viewed them as lesser to other Tajaran. Faced with work that segregated them from most settlements, the Zhan-Khazan have grown to be incredibly protective of their families and their own and follow traditional family values closely. Things like arranged marriages, inter-clan courting and gift-giving, and clan alliances were and are exceedingly common for Zhan-Khazan, and they support a close family life style. Those who go against their family face exile from their small, tight-knit communities. Zhan-Khazan also hold their co-workers in similar high regard, though not as much as blood ties.

Many Zhan-Khazan worship the Snow God, and scholars believe this faith was invented by this ethnic group. Small shrines are a common sight amongst settlements of or having a high population of Zhan-Khazan, and they hold very active, evangelical services. As such, many Zhan-Khazan take the teachings of the Snow God to heart, including unification amongst Tajaran. They care immensely about the future of their species and most do what they can for the betterment of Tajaran as a whole. Zhan-Khazan are highly valued agricultural and mining experts, and they make up almost seventy percent of the farmer and rancher population of Adhomai.

Like all other Tajaran, Siik'maas and Siik'tajr are the 'official' language of the Zhan-Khazan, but they were the inventors of the lesser dialect of Delvahhi. This language is still widely used in religious ceremonies dedicated to the Snow God and amongst settlements comprised mostly of Zhan-Khazan. It is also the favored language of farmers, who have adopted it in the wake of government intrusions into the agricultural industry of Adhomai.

===Njarir’Akhran===
Njarir’Akhran - Nobleman

"The Blood Rulers"

====Njarir'Akhran Physiology====

The Njarir'Akhran, or simply the Njarir, are the ethnic group that made up the majority of the plutocracy prior to the Great War. Their lineage can be traced from careful breeding between Hharar and M'sai, leading to where they currently are today. Following recent events on Adhomai, Njarir make up less than ten percent of the population, though reports see that number reducing slowly between honor killings and hate crimes given their close relation to the Tajaran nobility. Easily identifiable by their large ears, fluffy tails, luxurious fur and slender, elegant features. Njarir suffer persecution and rejection from certain proponents of Tajaran society because of their bloodline.

Historically, Njarir comprised almost the entirety of the Tajaran nobility. Efforts were made to keep noble lines purebred, even if it led to inbreeding in clans. Those who married outside of or slept outside of their bloodline were generally disowned by their family and forced into peasant life. This accounts for practically all surviving Njarir outside of those in the Hadii clan, who serve in important parts of the federal government. As the most learned of all Tajaran ethnic groups, they boast high intelligence and have a propensity towards the arts and sciences. Many have fled Adhomai only to be offered cushy jobs elsewhere working for the Alliance, other factions, or transstellar corporations. These individuals are looked down upon even more.

Njarir'Akhran are usually the following colors

Orange (RGB 238, 64, 0)
Cinnamon (RGB 160, 82, 45)
Ruddy (RGB 138, 54, 15)
Cream (RGB 205, 175, 149)

In stark contrast to their brethren, Njarir tend toward very bright, colorful fur patterns. Typically, their fur color ranges from reddish browns to cream colors, and they do not generally have dark fur. Siamese patterns as well as tortoiseshell or patched tabby patterns were valued amongst Njarir bloodlines, and those with more intricate fur patterns were revered and admired by their fellow noblemen, and it was considered an attractive trait in a female. Despite all this, these patterns have been shown to be recessive genes in Njarir, and the most common fur pattern is simply stripes.

====Njarir'Akhran Culture====

Due to their history as the ruling class of Tajaran, many records pertaining to Njarir practices and culture were destroyed in acts of insubordination. This, coupled with the widespread burning of Njarir literature and destruction of castles, villas, and chateaus, has led to a loss of critical information in ancient Njarir practices. What is known, however, is that only a handful of Njarir were ever part of the peasantry. As stated previously, keeping the bloodline pure was almost mandated amongst the noble clans and anyone who broke this rule was exiled to a life as a peasant. Other stipulations were agreed upon to ensure the 'nobleness' of a family member. One could not marry a peasant, or involve themselves in peasant affairs unless it proved a problem to productivity. To be seen in public, a nobleman or woman were obligated to wear fanciful clothing to show their status and were discouraged from physical contact with the peasantry.

Following the Great War, almost every noble family was systematically exterminated. The only noble clan still in power is the Hadii, who serve in the Tajaran government. It has proved exceedingly difficult to acquire testimony or records from living Hadii members, who wish not to anger the Tajaran public any further due to the still unstable post-revolution period on Adhomai. Relics recovered from Njarir ruins, however, suggest that at one point they were highly religious, giving credence to the theory that these noble clans evolved from religious leaders.

Siik'maas was the widely spoken language of Njarir, though amongst themselves they preferred to use the Ya'ssa dialect. Presumed to be the traditional language of the nobility, it uses a more refined alphabet and speech pattern believed to have evolved from a less-used ancient language. Hadii members have been recorded to still use this language, though ultimately with the widespread annihilation of noble families, this language has fallen into disuse and is not taught or provided as a language able to be learned.

===M’sai===
M'sai - Hunter

"The Soldier"

====M'sai Physiology====

As the third (though only by a small margin) populous Tajaran ethnic group, the M'sai were at one point the hunters for ancient Tajaran and evolved to have lithe, slender forms, and light fur that hid them in the blizzards on Adhomai. As Tajaran society advanced, M'sai could be found in many roles related to combat, including law enforcement and military service. Not all M'sai resign themselves to these positions, however, and enjoy helping Zhan-Khazan on the country farms or performing civil duties in cities from garbage disposal to cargo inspections.

Characterized by their thin, slender forms, the M'sai are deceptively light; by Tajaran standards, they are thin. With less but thicker fur and a thinner layer of body fat, they aren't as well-insulated against Adhomai's cold as their brethren. However, this gives them the bonus of being speedier, and their bodies are designed to be aerodynamically compatible with the harsh winds of Adhomai. Where a Zhan-Khazan would stumble as he weathered the winds, a M'sai can easily and quickly sprint through without being affected. The product of millenia of breeding between Zhan-Kazan and Hharar, the M'sai are agile, intelligent, and have quick reaction times, making them ideal for high stress work.

M'sai are usually the following colors

White (RGB 238, 223, 204)
Ivory (RGB 205, 205, 192)
Wheat (RGB 205, 186, 150)
Silver (RGB 192, 192, 192)

M'sai tend toward subtle fur patterns, such as ticked fur or spots. Their lighter colors are dominant genes and usually express themselves in cross-ethnic children, overwriting the parent fur color - except in the case of mating with a Zhan-Khazan. The dark and light colors mix, leading to a diluted shade of the darker fur. As they evolved to be hunters in the snow, dark fur colors tend to be suppressed in their children, as previously stated.

====M'sai Culture====

M'sai are known to typically be mild-mannered, but can also be prone to more aggression than their brethren. M'sai make up a significant portion of the People's Army of Adhomai, with a 2454 census giving a total of sixty-two point eight percent of soldiers, airmen, and sailors having been M'sai. They are very loyal to their friends and family, but aren't as overt about it as the Zhan-Khazan. With wide eyes and acute senses, they make great soldiers, with vision adapted to compensation for the heavy blizzards that plague their home planet. They are also great survivalists, and are capable of scrounging food for themselves via hunting.

Historically, they were employed by the plutocracy to aid in hunting and ranching, though the majority made up the armies and guards of cities, villages, and towns. They also made excellent scouts, and during the Tajaran's Renaissance period, were part of cartography teams assigned to record and draw maps of then-unexplored territory in the northern regions of the planet. In the town of Davistok, a silver statue of the explorer D'nante was commissioned by its noble family for having discovered the land there the wealthy trade city was built; they were held in higher regard by the nobility who viewed them as closer cousins than the other ethnic groups.

Siik'maas and Siik'tajr were always widely used by M'sai, but the body-focused language of Nal'rassan was their creation. Because the mrowling and vocal expressions of Siik'maas could sometimes alert prey to their presence and drive them away, hunting parties adopted this language to prevent such a thing from occurring. Rebel sects saw the use of this language and took made use of it for covert discussions and the transmission of highly classified information before and during the Great War.

=Adhomai Today=

[[File:Capital.jpg|thumb|alt=The Tajaran capital.|The Tajaran capital of Nal'tor has seen great developments in recent years.]]

The Tajaran homeworld has suffered plenty in the only three decades since the end of the revolution. With the sudden injection of advanced technology into their relatively simple life, the discrepancy between modernized cities and outlying areas could not be more obvious. While the Tajaran capital boasts the most modern developments with sleek skyscrapers, advanced connections and phone lines, as well as hospitals and schools, the further you get from the larger cities, the more apparent it is that things are not quite so flashy.

Many Tajaran villages and even some cities show remnants of war; where many buildings and monuments once stood, rubble and artrillery craters are all that remain. Landmines scattered throughout the wilderness are still active and provide dangers to hunting parties or travellers, and abandoned bunkers and artillery emplacements litter the countryside. Trenches and battle sites are still being discovered, and every other week you hear a rumor about how someone had their leg blown off after stumbling into a mine field.

There is a steady stream of money being fed into the Tajaran government. NanoTrasen, as per it's agreement with the president, have set up mining and logging operations on Adhomai using the local work force for the most menial of tasks. In return, company funded clinics and schools are slowly being spread out and build in the needy areas. Tajaran resource operations are now all but nonexistant; the buildings that were once part of the nobility's small gathering efforts have now been refurbished and are being used by NanoTrasen.

Literacy has risen to its all time high on Adhomai, and with the assistance of the Alliance, teachers have been brought in from off world to educate the younger generation of Tajaran. Special estbalishments for older students have also been constructed to assist the elder generation in being brought to the same level of education, but NanoTrasen has not expressed significanti nterest in this; these people make up the brunt of their low-paid workforce and they want to ensure that they are kept that way.

There are still several proponents of revolution that oppose the current government, but in the light of the previous, incredibly bloody war that rocked Adhomai, no armed conflict has been reported as of yet. Calling themselves the 'Followers', this group of revolutionaries are made up of Tajaran from almost every walk of life. Opposing corporate claims on Tajaran soil and citing mismatched development and governmental negligence as the fault of humanity, they aim to 'free Tajaran from the new shackles imposed upon them by the corproate overlords' and return Adhomai to a 'free, prospoerous planet like our ancestors dreamed of'.

[[Category:Species]]

Vaurca

2014-12-27T08:54:21Z

Covert0ddity: /* Population Projection */

{{Template:wip|assign = Covert0ddity, Erik Tiber}}

Vaurca, (Vore-Kah, Vaurca in singular term and Vaurcae in multiple) are bipedal animal-like organisms from the first moon of [[Sedantis | Sedantis I]] , vaguely reminiscent of Earth prawn. They have a complex caste system based on three types, and are very prevalent in human space after their first hive-ship contact on [date] 2456. Although tolerated on NanoTrasen stations, they are often discriminated against, and are unwelcome on most human-owned worlds, barring Tau Ceti.
To apply to be one of the insect-like Vaurca, apply [later].

Additional information: [[Sedantis]]
= History [WIP]=

===Ancient History===
Nomadism is the primary lifestyle due to the harsh nature of living on their planet, with the populations being small and life expectancy being low. Culture wasn't very big, as everyone was focused on ensuring the survival of their hives, but there was basic pottery, painting, and oral history being shared. Fighting was done with hand to hand combat, with an honour system developing governing how to fight unarmed, and with defeat leading to the victorious warrior severing his opponent's head with his mandibles.

===The Age of Change===
60,000 years ago, farming fungus leads to explosive population growth. With all these new workers and food surpluses, hives began to focus on technological and cultural advances. While this leads to explosive tech, it also fuels competition and strife between the hives, as fertile farmland was a rare and extremely coveted prize. New weapon and metals begin to be forged for warriors, replacing the system of fighting where warriors would only use hands, claws, and mandibles. Groomed by a new life of war and competition, castes begin to be developed and culturally reinforced in successful hives to give them an edge over the others.

===Development of Augments===
The astonishing rate of technological growth reached a head roughly 15,000 years ago, with the first mass-scale use of augments. While evidence suggests that there had been experiments in improving a worker or soldier with mechanical parts, they were rarely successful. But after mastering the ability to augment themselves, fundamental changes in Vaurca developed that both revolutionized their race and solidified the old order. Workers and warriors now had vastly improved abilities, increasing efficiency in production and making warriors far more terrifying. But while the augments offered this new freedom, they also gave a physical manifestation of their caste. A soldier given augments to his martial power could not feasibly be an artist or be useful as a general purpose worker, leaving him stuck to fight for the hive.

===Moving into the Stars===
Despite the sense of fear and mystery the Vaurca have for the sky and stars, only a few hundred years after the mass-usage of augments, a handful of hives began to go into space.

===Contact with Humanity===
[wip]

=Biology=

To the average human, the Vaurca seem to look like terrestrial prawns, but act like ants, or termites. While their biology looks similar to something like a termite; scientifically, this description is largely superficial. There are three types of Vaurca biologically, and these tend to corrugate with the cultural caste system. There is extreme evidence hinting from all types of Vaurca biologically, that they have augmented themselves and genetically engineered a few of their modern traits, and it is near impossible to predict what they could have been like before they developed these augments.

==Type A (Workers)==

Biologically, Type A are the most prevalent and can be seen as the 'backbone' of Vaurca societies. Their most prevalent feature is their hardened exoskeleton, varying in colors according to their hive. It is approximately three inches thick among all Type A Vaurca. The Exoskleton provides protection against harsh radiation, solar and otherwise, as well as acts as a pressure-suit, sealing their soft inner core from the outside world. This allows most Type A Vaurca to have EVA periods of around 4 hours or more, assuming they have internals. They are bipedal, with bird-like talon toes. Their legs separate into two parts, that form into what would be their feet, with the end of the 'toes' always touching the ground. Their hands consist of a type of 'grasping' arrangement, two middle fingers with small talons at the end, and two oposable thumbs, a left and a right, on either side of their hand.

Internally, Type A are very similar to that of an Earth insect. They have an open circulatory system, with their blood covering their digestive system, dual hearts, lungs, and other organs. Their dual hearts provide a significant sloshing motion to prevent the blood from stagnating. Their blood is a copper-based hemoglobin, with a high dependency of sulfer, creating a yellow tinted blood, with a very potent stink. This open circulatory system, however, can lead to wounds that pierce the exoskeleton and minor layer of skin to bleed out unless treated quickly. They function well with an atmosphere of mostly oxygen, nitrogen, and very trace amounts of gaseous plasma. Along their throat they have their breathing apparatus, which is definitely a form of cybernetic implant. This implant converts station atmosphere into a tolerable one, and injects very small amounts of plasma into it.

Type A have two large, insect-like eyes, and two smaller ones underneath, that are hyper-sensitive to most forms of light. While they can function in light-heavy environments perfectly fine, most complain about frequent migraines and tendency to get frustrated after long exposures to light like the sun, or even general station phosphorics. This hyper-sensitivity, however, leads to heavily increased eyesight in dark areas, like the tunnels of their cities or the narrow, nearly lightless corridors of their ships. They also have large, insect-like antennae that protrude from their head, above their large eyes. These antennae are used for greater perception of their surroundings and to communicate with each other through subtle movements, or rubbing them together with another Type A. Also acting a sensory and nerve database, when these antennae are lost, they can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, communications problems, and is extremely painful. Some observations have been concluded with: "It's like watching a drunk man trying to walk."

Their mouth parts are similar to a prawn's, in that they have two large mandibles, with small feelers and chewing parts that come out of the bottom. They click these mandibles together, combined with their vocal chords and pheromones they release, and create their archaic language. Their breathing apparatus also acts a voice synthesizer, allowing them to speak intelligibly, (despite very alien-sounding) human languages.

Type A are created after initial birth, and given a slightly more moist and warmth emphasized nurturing environment before hatching.

==Type B (Warriors)==

Type B are the second most prominent of the biological parts of Vaurca society. Varying massively in size and specific biological parts, they have, essentially, the same physiology as Type A. Type B can range in size from six feet tall, to twenty eight recorded feet tall. They can be bipedal, quadrupeds, or hextopeds. Despite each Type B's appearance, they have been filed into three general categories.

===Type BA===

Type BA range generally from 5 feet, to 9 feet tall. Bipedal and usually more exo-skeleton thick, Type BA have exactly the same physiology as Type A, but seem to posses extreme amounts of augments, more aggressive focused. Examining of their exoskeleton reveals two inches thicker, and supporrted with carbon nano-tubes that provide a stronger-than steel natural armor, but allows type BA to move around freely and at will.

Their antennae are modified to have motion sensors and audio + sensory amplifiers, so they can seek out enemies quicker. Their eyes have semi-glass-like coverings over them that protect it from most forms of damages, and also provide a HUD for synchronizing weaponry that Type BA wield. There is evidence of stumps along where their shoulder blades would be, which provides the theory that there may have been wings there at one point. Some Type BA have integrated jet packs there, for easier EVA transport and quick mobilization within gravity.

===Type BB===

Type BB range from being 6 feet tall to 9 feet tall. They are quadrupedal, and have very thick exo-skeletons. Type BB have generally the same physiology as Type A and BA. They have presence of extremely heavy augmentation to their bodies and mind-system. While most other Vaurca are bipedal, Type BB have four, spindle-like legs, that are extremely strong, made from a different substance than their actual exoskeleton, resembling more metallic than chitinous material. At where the feet of these legs would be, are highly adaptible and flexible graspers that allow a Type BA to scale nearly any surface, including vertical, and sustain little damage from large drops.

On their interior, they come equipped with a bio-generator, taking 'energy' from their bloodstream and heart motions, to help power their equipment, as well as having an tri-implementation of internal, highly efficient high-storage batteries. They have internal adrenal injectors that they can use during high-intensity combat situations, and have blood-clotting formulas to treat wounds faster.

Their exoskeleton is similarly reinforced as Type BA, with carbon nano-tubes and synthetic plating reincforcing the bulk of the chitinous layer, but also has a thin layer of energy shielding that comes from unknown sources within Type BB itself, covering the very most outer layer of exo-skeleton, seeming to have various node-points that spread across Type BB's body.

Weaponry wise, they seem to be mobile weapons platforms, without even needing to wield a weapon. They have two long, razor-sharp arms that come with energy-supplements for eviscerating enemies, two integral energy weapons above their front shoulders that have automated targeting and fast firing speeds, and are often seen with larger mounts on their backs, ranging from Anti-Air cannons, mortars, siege cannons, or a mounted ballistic/energy machine guns.

===Type BC===

Being very different from the other Types of Vaurca, but inherently similar to Type B, Type BC are somewhat of a phenomenon. They are completely mechanical, ranging from airborne, to land-based, to water and submarine based, they are essentially vehicles piloted by lobotomized Vaurca Type A and B nerve centers.

They are created from invalid Type A and B, and are used in warfare, transportation, exploration, and many other uses, similar to how Humans use many vehicles for their own endeavors. Some are even reported to be entire fighter-frigate sized space-ships.

==Type C (Breeders)==

Type C are the rarest among Vaurca, in that they make up around 2-3% of their entire species. They consist of two parts, male and female to Human standards, and each part has a very unique acting on their specific hive.

===Type CA===

Type CA are an extreme anomaly compared to other races around known space. Acting as the female counterpart of Type C Vaurca, they are generally hosted within large Iron Wombs that automatically artificially inseminate, and ensure eggs are transported to hatcheries and nurseries unharmed. Physically, type CA are blobulous, with thousands of tiny cilia along their underside to assist them with movements if required. The have a large feeding tube protruding from their front, and alongside that feeding tube, a neural tube that can connect to any Vaurca, barring Type CB.

This neural tube connects any given Vaurca access to the collective conscious, and allows for instantaneous sentient possession by the millions of multiple 'personalities' stored within Type CA's body. Type CA are theorized to act as a form of Virtual Reality connection hub, where anything can be simulated and created. Type CA are often seen around many 'Unbound' Vaurca, transferring information and replacing personalities.

Type CA go through three phases, different from their Type A and B compatriots. After initial larvae period, they enter the 'royal' phase, where they are around the size of a standard Type A, and have seperated ego's. During this phase, they seek a viable spot for a new hive.

The next phase is the 'Established' phase, where they grow approximately 5x their original height and begin laying eggs for the hive. This phase is generally short, and it is predicted that the phases ended at this time, before the Augmentation period. This Queen has a very large abdomen like structure, where eggs are created and layed, two scythe-like arms, and a large head with six eyes and antennae.

The final phase is the 'Storage' phase, where the Type CA completely melds with technology and finds an adequet Type CB to maintain continuous offspring with, becoming the type detailed in the original explaination.

===Type CB===

Type CB are the second, and male counterpart, of Type C Vaurca. They are essentially exactly the same as Type A Vaurca, but they sport large functional wings that allows them to fly through the air at high speeds, theorized to allow them to get around their home planet to find mates quicker.

==Evolution==

The Vaurca have evolved from small, hive-like entities that seemed to group together in tight, nomadic hives and wander their home planet in search for large growths of their primary food substance, a rampant and non-nutritious fungus entity known through their language as K'ois, (Translated to: The Substance). There is evidence of them evolving from small insects, and through unknown means rampantly increasing in size and numbers some time before pre-sentient history. This may be due to a sudden introduction or increase of Oxygen in the atmosphere.

The Vaurca evolved into their current form roughly 200,000 years ago, before developing agriculture 60,000 years ago. Thousands of years were spent fighting over the few areas of rich farmland on the planet. Their arid and sparse environment drove them to develop advanced methods of genetic and technological augmentation. Approximately 15,000 years ago, the first Vaurca craft left their solar system. In the time since, they have radically modified their genome and appearance, leading to the development of the current system of castes. Evidence of the early appearance of Vaurca before their augmentation is sparse, but what sources exist do suggest that Type A Vaurca most closley resemble their 'natural' appearance without augmentation. It is suggested that the current concept of a Queen has changed from its original meaning, with the methods of influence changing from primarily using chemicals and pheremones to control the population to the creation of large paradise-like virtual realities in which the vast majority of the Vaurca population spends its entire existence. In the modern day, the Vaurca have used their technology to allow their many physical workers to serve the hive with extreme efficiency and unquestioning loyalty.

===Sleep Cycle===

Vaurcae sleep cycle is a very hard to one to predict. While it seems like most of all Types of Vaurca don't actually sleep at all, there is evidence of, a few hours per standard day, the Vaurca enter a stasis-like state in that their mind shuts off and they stay still. This is similar to how a robot can enter 'sleep mode' and it is theorized that this time is used for sorting memories and useful information in a specific, Bound or Unbound, Vaurca.

==Birthing Cycle==

All Vaurcae, disrearding Type C, go through an initial birthing process that is made up of three phases. This birthing cycle is similar to any insect, although further studies show how much more incredibly complex these processes are.

===Eggs===

After being first layed by the Queen and transported mechanically to the birthing and nursery chambers of a hive, Vaurca eggs are incredibly fragile, approximately 91.44 centimeters tall and 30.48 centimeters thick, they have a thin slimey covering and are transparent, often being a dirty brown or whitish color. The devoloping larvae can be seen inside. They are connected to a feeding machine, supplying nutrients to the forming larva. These nutrients are also a growth hormone, making the Vaurca grow faster, and shortening hatch period. The egg will hatch in a period of four to ten days.

===Lesser Larvae===

The second phase of the birthing cycle, Lesser larvae are what come from initially hatched eggs. Frail and very weak, they are always a milky white color, without any eyes and transparent, soft skin. They are photophobic, and oftn require assisted movements. During this phase, all forms of conscious are removed an downloaded into the Virtual Reality of the hive. The Vaurca remains in this period for approximately one standard week.

===Greater Larvae===

The final phase of the birthing cycle, greater larvae are a mature version of the Lesser. They have a weak, but effective exoskeleton, and are capable of moving themselves around. Being approximtely a meter long, they also have four eyes and a feeding mouth at the bottom of their 'head.' During this phase, necessary hormones and minor augmentation are injected to determine wether a given larva will become a Type A or B. Vaurca stay in this period for about 5 weeks, before hatching into their designate role of the Hive's society. After they mature, they are then heavily augmented, the neural tube being inserted in the back of their head, and any structural and internal machinery placed.

= Culture =

== Fashion & Cuisine ==

Throughout Vaurca history, fashion has remained nearly non-existant. Often going nude or with small garments covering their mouth pieces to prevent any forms of contagions inside, they have do not have as bad as a nudity taboo as other races seem to have. Also lacking any kind of genitalia, they have nothing to be worried about when inside their hives. However, some Vaurca prefer to wear thin blindfold-like cloth over their eyes to prevent the 'extreme light' from giving them headaches or discomfort.

On their homeworld, however, Vaurca that go above-ground, venturing from their massive underground and mountain-based hives are often seen wearing cloth to prevent radiation sickness, despite their natural resistance against radiation.

Vaurca that venture EVA, despite their natural tolerance to high/low/vacuum pressure environments, are seen wearing soft-suits, that allow them prolonged times in space for construction, operations, and other EVA activities.

Vaurca cuisine is viewed upon as extremely bland and tasteless to the other species. Generally consisting completely of their genetically engineered fungus that they grow en masse, it is grinded down into a paste, boiled, or eaten raw. It is describes as tasting chalk-like or like iron to Humans, and if eaten too much, some humans can get nauseated.

The fungus, K'ois ('The Substance'), is a white, bulbous mushroom that thrives in any environment it is placed in, apart from overly wet. While it appears this fungus is genetically bred to be so adaptable, it is also presumed it was naturally abundant over the Vaurcae home planet.

==The Arts==

Art is a strange subject when it comes to the Vaurca. While not possessing any form of written art, that we currently know of, their art comes in a virtual sense. This art-style goes hand in hand with the Vaurcae caste system. They view their Virtual Reality as a paradise, and can simulate anything and everything. Due to this Virtual Reality, they have never had the need, since uploading themselves to it, to draw, write, or anything else.

This Virtual Reality also acts as an information data hub, so as long as there are Type CA still alive, all Vaurcae knowledge can still be accessible, without the need for written or typed documentation.

==Religion==

Vaurca viewings upon the world and the unknown in general is fairly standard to most other races. The sentient parts of their species regard the Type CA, or their 'Queen', as the God's of their hive. This is due to the relationships the personalities and the drones have with each other, as well as the Queen itself being the 'harbor' of the Virtual Reality, which to them is Heaven.

Similar to how humanity views the afterlife, they believe there is a heaven and a hell. K'seaiu'iut (Heaven, Paradise, etc) and Ck'ois'tika (The World Above). Because of the harmful UV radiation and the overall in-hospitable surface of their planet, primitive Vaurca viewed space and the sky as where all souls who did not benefit the hive in their lifetime would go, a place of eternal pain and damnation to the F'sixast'kis, (The Black Queen) who would torture them in a psuedo-opposite Virtual Reality world that they could never escape from.

Because of their large caste difference, the Bound of the Vaurca believe this wholeheartedly. The Unbound have a slightly different approach on this mentality. They believe all drones to be simple carriers of the good of their hive, and that each is merely a piece of clothing to put on, wear out, and then dispose of as necessary, while also indulging that their service to the hive can approve of unlimited time within the Virtual Reality, instead of a violent death traversing and learning for the good of the hive.

=Castes=

There are three distinct caste systems that work in complicated harmony with each other, that seem to be independent of biological constraints, however, also seem to go hand-in-hand. This Caste system is decided by how many personalities are currently inside the Virtual Reality, and how many Type A and B Vaurca are required.

==The Bound==

This is the most prominent caste. The Bound are, essentially, lobotomized Type A and B Vaurca that unquestionably follow the orders of superiors to the death. They appear to not be self aware, able to carry out conversations, but unable to make decisions for themselves. They seem to not have any sense of possession, willingly giving out any and all of their possessions to those who ask. The Bound are the main workforce; A slave-like caste that the Vaurca social system is built upon. All Bound Vaurca have data-sockets in the back of their head, accessible by the neural tube of the Type CA Vaurca to allow gathering of information, or ascension into the Unbound. They can be thought of like cyborgs.

All warriors and standard drones are Bound. They are commonly seen on NanoTrasen stations as civilian jobs, like cargo technician, chef, assistant, Janitor, or any kind of apprentice, barring security and science. While they, by law, receive pay, there are no regulations in place for simply asking for the Bound's money, so they are often employed as nearly cost-less workers.

Derogatory names are often assigned to The Bound by the Unbound, generally consisting of names like: 'The Burden,' 'The Mindless,' 'Unsanitary,' 'Thoughtless,' and many others. This is an interesting relationship, as The Bound seem to revere and even worship The Unbound, like each one was a minor God.

==The Unbound==

This is the second most prominent caste. The Unbound are essentially the only sentient part of Vaurca sociology, in that they are the embodied personas stored on Type CA in the Virtual Reality, uploaded into The Bound. They are perfectly capable of making rational, thinking decisions, and are naturally intuitive and curious, much like a human. Behavior wise, each Unbound is nearly identical when they are first transferred out of their Virtual Reality paradise. As they begin to learn and gain experience, however, they become individualized and have personalities for themselves. (Even if it is simulated.)

The Unbound learn as any normal human, while having access to the Hive Network of any hive, they go through periodic 'resets' where their knowledge is absorbed, and occasionally, the personality switched out for another. When a Bound steps up to Type CA, the neural tube temporarily connects the personality back with the hive, and they instantly share information.

The Unbound are chosen through multiple factors. While they are the very fringe of their species, the Unbound measure around 2,000-3,000 per large hive. Approximately 30% of the Unbound are voluntary, genuinely curious about the outside world, or are patriotic enough to assist the hive in any way they can. However, the other 70% of the Unbound are chosen in an automatic raffle, where they are ripped from their virtual reality paradise and made to serve the Hive. This can lead to disgruntlement. They will often detest their body, and themselves, and be genuinely hateful to everything, merely doing the minimum and full fulling their job.

The Unbound are often sent off into the world independently from the Hive to learn and study their surroundings, or, in the event they stay in the hive, manage the Bound and perform civic duties, such as scientific research and diplomacy. In practice within human societies, they often live alone in their own apartments like any other citizen, and work to support themselves, rarely having monetary aid from their Hive. Every few months, they must make the journey back to their Type CA, and deposit information. At this point, they can determine if they wish to go back into the Virtual Reality, or stay in the physical world.

On NanoTrasen stations, they are often employed as any human would be, generally not having any specializations until they learn about a department; they can be seen frequently as interns. This is not always the case, as they learn very rapidly, and some have been subjected to schooling already, passing as any graduate would.

==The I'soiasfi==

Being an unusual caste, and the translation having thousands of connotations, there has not been a definite translation created for the third, and rarest Caste of the Vaurca. Generally describing a scene like 'Heaven,' 'Paradise,' 'Tranquility,' and 'Utopia,' I'soiasfi describes what the Type C are. They are carriers of the release of their species; Type CA is revered as a God and rightful leader due to the collective that resides within her. Type CB is revered and loved as natural leaders, and because of their natural affinity for their own personality, they are able to command entire Bound and Unbound forces efficiently.

Type CA holds the personalities and ego's of all The Bound, to allow their physical counterparts to be used in the way that they are. The personalities are entertained by the Virtual Reality system that resides within Type CA, allowing virtually anything to be simulated, created, destroyed, or predicted.

Type CA has little to no actual power within itself. The collective within Type CA decides Hive-wide decisions, and Type CB are expected to act as nodes, relaying the Hive's orders to Unbound that then relay orders back to the Bound in a complex hierarchy system.

=Language & Naming=

Vaurcae naming systems are fairly simple. Although their names in their own hive language are extremely complex, with the learning of Tau Ceti Basic and other languages, the Vaurca have been forced to simplify their names. Naming is based of a numbering system, determined after birth. This name includes a caste and biological designation, the number they are, and finally what hive they are from. The first name proceeds like this: Biological-Caste-Number, with Ka being used for all Type A, Za being used for all Type B, and Va being used for all Type C. Type C do not have Caste names. Caste-wise, Vias is for Bound, Akaix is for Unbound. Vaurca hive numbers are very large, so the final part of their name will vary with every Vaurca. An example: Ka'vias'dsith Zo'ra, indicates an unbound drone with the number of 8123 from the Zo'ra Hive. An example of a Type CA with this, is Va Zo'ra, indicating it is a Type C from the Zo'ra hive. For a Type CB, it would be Va'Uyats Zo'ra, indicating it is 213 of Type CB from the Zo'ra hive.

However, this naming structure is flexible between hives. This much is the most common arrangement studies have found so far. Some phenomenons have been observed where Vaurca will change their first name to a standard Human, Unathi, Tajaran, Skrell, or even robotic name, to attempt to 'fit in' with their crowd, all though the number that do this is small.

Vaurcae language structure, to non-Vaurca ears, sounds extremely archaic and cryptic, like simple clicks and grunts more than a language. However, to a creature that knows the language, all types of Vaurcese is extremely complicated and each syllable has many thousands of different connotations it could convey. Combined with subtle antennae movement and pheromone release, it is not hard to say that it is a language that can never be spoken or understood by another species. While each hive has their own small variations of Vaurcese, the language can be universally understood.

It is produced by clicking the mandibles and mouth pieces together, while sending air through the mouthpieces as well as the vocal chords. It is described as sounding like clicks and high pitched squeals. The Vaurca, however, utilize synthetic throat implants that synthesize a very alien-sounding, but intelligible, Tau Ceti Basic or any other language.

=Major Hives=

Although there are thousands of hives, and colors or physical parts of each Hive is not excepted in Vaurca society, as there can be completely different colors of Vaurca within hives, depending on how they are raised, there are generally normals for each Hive. Each hive has varying levels of technology and size, these are just the major ones.

==Zo'ra==
Zo'ra - Unstoppable

“Common Vaurca.”

===General===

Zo'ra, the largest and most powerful hive, and also the first one discovered by Humanity following their Hive-ship 'Titan Prime.' Zo'ra believe themselves to be the Alpha of the Vaurca, and the face of their species, seeing as they have he best technology due to their connections with NanoTrasen and humanity. While they do not conquer other hives to extinction, they employ 'client-hives' that supply the Zo'ra with resources, and man-power when desired.

Most Zo'ra do not like other hives, having a superiority complex.

Because of the size of the Zo'ra hive, they function with a series of Type CA. The 'High Queen' as it stands, is on the homeworld, with 'minor' Type CA functioning in a relay effect of power.

The Zo'ra are on a current 'war of conquest' with their own species because of their discovery of Bluespace technology due to contact with humanity, and the building of a stable Bluespace gate within their home system, Sedantis. They maintain trade with NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance.

===Military Projection===

*Hive ships: 8 currently operational, 3 under construction.
*Navy: Approximately 68.9% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Army: Approximately 71.3% strength of Sol Alliance projection.
*Overall: Approximately 70% strength of Sol Alliance projection.

===Population Projection===

*Systems Occupied: 13
*Colonies operational: 19
*Total Population projection: 77.3 Billion
*Type A population projection: 46.9 Billion
*Type B Population projection: 30.4 Billion
*Type CA Population projection: 1 million
*Type CB Population Projection: 30 million

*Bound percentage: 99%
*Unbound percentage: 1%
*Total amount of Unbound: 773 million.

===Technological Projection===

Rating: Advanced.
Drive type: FTL, Bluespace. (After initial contact with humanity.)
Weapons: Laser, particle, projectile.
Technological summary: The Zo'ra hive is incredibly technologically advanced compared to other hives, and about even when it comes to humanity. They have the best weaponry, efficient bluespace drive systems that they have equipped onto their own ships, and advanced shielding systems that they have agreed to share knowledge with NanoTrasen.

===Relations Summary===

Races:
Humanity: Good.
Skrell: Good.
Unathi: Neutral.
Tajaran: Neutral.
Diona: Neutral.
Vox: Cool.

Human Factions:
Sol Alliance: Allied.
Republic of Biesel: Allied.
Eridani Federation: Neutral.
Republic of Elyra: Cool.
Syndicate: Hostile.

Other Hives:
K'lax: Client-Hive.
Vess'ex: Client-Hive.
Lii'dra: War.
V'scal: War.
F'iosi: War.
Zat'ios: War.

===Zhan-Khazan===
Zhan-Khazan - Mountain-Keeper

“The Workhorse”

====Zhan-Khazan Physiology====

Zhan-Khazan are the second most populous of Tajaran ethnicities, and are considered to be the backbone of the Tajaran workforce. Their history as an ethnicity is one not well documented; very little historical texts describing them were preserved in the wake of the Great War, and archaeological dig sites are difficult to preserve given the climate of Adhomai. What is known, however, is that the Zhan-Khazan were at one point a race of cave-and-mountain dwelling Tajaran that traditionally were entrusted with physical work like mining, farming, ranching, and logging.

Because of their history of hard work and the way they adapted to harsh mountain life, Zhan-Khazan are more physically intimidating than their close relatives, the M'sai. Featuring more toned, muscular bodies, thicker fur coats, and a heavier body weight, they are well-suited to tasks requiring brute strength and heavy lifting. They are by no means less intelligent than the Hharar, but most Zhan-Khazan do not pursue the same type of work. Zhan-Khazan make up a significant amount of Tajaran employed in resource gathering, construction, civil jobs such as law enforcement and even culinary work such as butchering.

Zhan-Khazan as a group are usually the following colors

Blue-Grey (RGB 34, 37, 50)
Dark Gray (RGB 30, 30, 30)
Chocolate (RGB 94, 38, 18)

Zhan-Khazan fur patterns are remarkably simple, usually consisting of only dark solid colors or at the most ticked fur or tabby stripes. They are capable of lighter colors and more varied fur patterns, but these are rare, recessive traits present in pure Zhan-Khazan bloodlines. Those that breed outside of their ethnicity have a higher chance of passing on their dark fur, as their genes are more dominant compared to other ethnic groups. These genes are present in both male and female parents.

====Zhan-Khazan Culture====

For most of Tajaran history, Zhan-Khazan were tasked with more difficult work as they were more suited to physical labor than their brethren. They were subject to harsher punishments and more repressive mandates as the plutocracy viewed them as lesser to other Tajaran. Faced with work that segregated them from most settlements, the Zhan-Khazan have grown to be incredibly protective of their families and their own and follow traditional family values closely. Things like arranged marriages, inter-clan courting and gift-giving, and clan alliances were and are exceedingly common for Zhan-Khazan, and they support a close family life style. Those who go against their family face exile from their small, tight-knit communities. Zhan-Khazan also hold their co-workers in similar high regard, though not as much as blood ties.

Many Zhan-Khazan worship the Snow God, and scholars believe this faith was invented by this ethnic group. Small shrines are a common sight amongst settlements of or having a high population of Zhan-Khazan, and they hold very active, evangelical services. As such, many Zhan-Khazan take the teachings of the Snow God to heart, including unification amongst Tajaran. They care immensely about the future of their species and most do what they can for the betterment of Tajaran as a whole. Zhan-Khazan are highly valued agricultural and mining experts, and they make up almost seventy percent of the farmer and rancher population of Adhomai.

Like all other Tajaran, Siik'maas and Siik'tajr are the 'official' language of the Zhan-Khazan, but they were the inventors of the lesser dialect of Delvahhi. This language is still widely used in religious ceremonies dedicated to the Snow God and amongst settlements comprised mostly of Zhan-Khazan. It is also the favored language of farmers, who have adopted it in the wake of government intrusions into the agricultural industry of Adhomai.

===Njarir’Akhran===
Njarir’Akhran - Nobleman

"The Blood Rulers"

====Njarir'Akhran Physiology====

The Njarir'Akhran, or simply the Njarir, are the ethnic group that made up the majority of the plutocracy prior to the Great War. Their lineage can be traced from careful breeding between Hharar and M'sai, leading to where they currently are today. Following recent events on Adhomai, Njarir make up less than ten percent of the population, though reports see that number reducing slowly between honor killings and hate crimes given their close relation to the Tajaran nobility. Easily identifiable by their large ears, fluffy tails, luxurious fur and slender, elegant features. Njarir suffer persecution and rejection from certain proponents of Tajaran society because of their bloodline.

Historically, Njarir comprised almost the entirety of the Tajaran nobility. Efforts were made to keep noble lines purebred, even if it led to inbreeding in clans. Those who married outside of or slept outside of their bloodline were generally disowned by their family and forced into peasant life. This accounts for practically all surviving Njarir outside of those in the Hadii clan, who serve in important parts of the federal government. As the most learned of all Tajaran ethnic groups, they boast high intelligence and have a propensity towards the arts and sciences. Many have fled Adhomai only to be offered cushy jobs elsewhere working for the Alliance, other factions, or transstellar corporations. These individuals are looked down upon even more.

Njarir'Akhran are usually the following colors

Orange (RGB 238, 64, 0)
Cinnamon (RGB 160, 82, 45)
Ruddy (RGB 138, 54, 15)
Cream (RGB 205, 175, 149)

In stark contrast to their brethren, Njarir tend toward very bright, colorful fur patterns. Typically, their fur color ranges from reddish browns to cream colors, and they do not generally have dark fur. Siamese patterns as well as tortoiseshell or patched tabby patterns were valued amongst Njarir bloodlines, and those with more intricate fur patterns were revered and admired by their fellow noblemen, and it was considered an attractive trait in a female. Despite all this, these patterns have been shown to be recessive genes in Njarir, and the most common fur pattern is simply stripes.

====Njarir'Akhran Culture====

Due to their history as the ruling class of Tajaran, many records pertaining to Njarir practices and culture were destroyed in acts of insubordination. This, coupled with the widespread burning of Njarir literature and destruction of castles, villas, and chateaus, has led to a loss of critical information in ancient Njarir practices. What is known, however, is that only a handful of Njarir were ever part of the peasantry. As stated previously, keeping the bloodline pure was almost mandated amongst the noble clans and anyone who broke this rule was exiled to a life as a peasant. Other stipulations were agreed upon to ensure the 'nobleness' of a family member. One could not marry a peasant, or involve themselves in peasant affairs unless it proved a problem to productivity. To be seen in public, a nobleman or woman were obligated to wear fanciful clothing to show their status and were discouraged from physical contact with the peasantry.

Following the Great War, almost every noble family was systematically exterminated. The only noble clan still in power is the Hadii, who serve in the Tajaran government. It has proved exceedingly difficult to acquire testimony or records from living Hadii members, who wish not to anger the Tajaran public any further due to the still unstable post-revolution period on Adhomai. Relics recovered from Njarir ruins, however, suggest that at one point they were highly religious, giving credence to the theory that these noble clans evolved from religious leaders.

Siik'maas was the widely spoken language of Njarir, though amongst themselves they preferred to use the Ya'ssa dialect. Presumed to be the traditional language of the nobility, it uses a more refined alphabet and speech pattern believed to have evolved from a less-used ancient language. Hadii members have been recorded to still use this language, though ultimately with the widespread annihilation of noble families, this language has fallen into disuse and is not taught or provided as a language able to be learned.

===M’sai===
M'sai - Hunter

"The Soldier"

====M'sai Physiology====

As the third (though only by a small margin) populous Tajaran ethnic group, the M'sai were at one point the hunters for ancient Tajaran and evolved to have lithe, slender forms, and light fur that hid them in the blizzards on Adhomai. As Tajaran society advanced, M'sai could be found in many roles related to combat, including law enforcement and military service. Not all M'sai resign themselves to these positions, however, and enjoy helping Zhan-Khazan on the country farms or performing civil duties in cities from garbage disposal to cargo inspections.

Characterized by their thin, slender forms, the M'sai are deceptively light; by Tajaran standards, they are thin. With less but thicker fur and a thinner layer of body fat, they aren't as well-insulated against Adhomai's cold as their brethren. However, this gives them the bonus of being speedier, and their bodies are designed to be aerodynamically compatible with the harsh winds of Adhomai. Where a Zhan-Khazan would stumble as he weathered the winds, a M'sai can easily and quickly sprint through without being affected. The product of millenia of breeding between Zhan-Kazan and Hharar, the M'sai are agile, intelligent, and have quick reaction times, making them ideal for high stress work.

M'sai are usually the following colors

White (RGB 238, 223, 204)
Ivory (RGB 205, 205, 192)
Wheat (RGB 205, 186, 150)
Silver (RGB 192, 192, 192)

M'sai tend toward subtle fur patterns, such as ticked fur or spots. Their lighter colors are dominant genes and usually express themselves in cross-ethnic children, overwriting the parent fur color - except in the case of mating with a Zhan-Khazan. The dark and light colors mix, leading to a diluted shade of the darker fur. As they evolved to be hunters in the snow, dark fur colors tend to be suppressed in their children, as previously stated.

====M'sai Culture====

M'sai are known to typically be mild-mannered, but can also be prone to more aggression than their brethren. M'sai make up a significant portion of the People's Army of Adhomai, with a 2454 census giving a total of sixty-two point eight percent of soldiers, airmen, and sailors having been M'sai. They are very loyal to their friends and family, but aren't as overt about it as the Zhan-Khazan. With wide eyes and acute senses, they make great soldiers, with vision adapted to compensation for the heavy blizzards that plague their home planet. They are also great survivalists, and are capable of scrounging food for themselves via hunting.

Historically, they were employed by the plutocracy to aid in hunting and ranching, though the majority made up the armies and guards of cities, villages, and towns. They also made excellent scouts, and during the Tajaran's Renaissance period, were part of cartography teams assigned to record and draw maps of then-unexplored territory in the northern regions of the planet. In the town of Davistok, a silver statue of the explorer D'nante was commissioned by its noble family for having discovered the land there the wealthy trade city was built; they were held in higher regard by the nobility who viewed them as closer cousins than the other ethnic groups.

Siik'maas and Siik'tajr were always widely used by M'sai, but the body-focused language of Nal'rassan was their creation. Because the mrowling and vocal expressions of Siik'maas could sometimes alert prey to their presence and drive them away, hunting parties adopted this language to prevent such a thing from occurring. Rebel sects saw the use of this language and took made use of it for covert discussions and the transmission of highly classified information before and during the Great War.

=Adhomai Today=

[[File:Capital.jpg|thumb|alt=The Tajaran capital.|The Tajaran capital of Nal'tor has seen great developments in recent years.]]

The Tajaran homeworld has suffered plenty in the only three decades since the end of the revolution. With the sudden injection of advanced technology into their relatively simple life, the discrepancy between modernized cities and outlying areas could not be more obvious. While the Tajaran capital boasts the most modern developments with sleek skyscrapers, advanced connections and phone lines, as well as hospitals and schools, the further you get from the larger cities, the more apparent it is that things are not quite so flashy.

Many Tajaran villages and even some cities show remnants of war; where many buildings and monuments once stood, rubble and artrillery craters are all that remain. Landmines scattered throughout the wilderness are still active and provide dangers to hunting parties or travellers, and abandoned bunkers and artillery emplacements litter the countryside. Trenches and battle sites are still being discovered, and every other week you hear a rumor about how someone had their leg blown off after stumbling into a mine field.

There is a steady stream of money being fed into the Tajaran government. NanoTrasen, as per it's agreement with the president, have set up mining and logging operations on Adhomai using the local work force for the most menial of tasks. In return, company funded clinics and schools are slowly being spread out and build in the needy areas. Tajaran resource operations are now all but nonexistant; the buildings that were once part of the nobility's small gathering efforts have now been refurbished and are being used by NanoTrasen.

Literacy has risen to its all time high on Adhomai, and with the assistance of the Alliance, teachers have been brought in from off world to educate the younger generation of Tajaran. Special estbalishments for older students have also been constructed to assist the elder generation in being brought to the same level of education, but NanoTrasen has not expressed significanti nterest in this; these people make up the brunt of their low-paid workforce and they want to ensure that they are kept that way.

There are still several proponents of revolution that oppose the current government, but in the light of the previous, incredibly bloody war that rocked Adhomai, no armed conflict has been reported as of yet. Calling themselves the 'Followers', this group of revolutionaries are made up of Tajaran from almost every walk of life. Opposing corporate claims on Tajaran soil and citing mismatched development and governmental negligence as the fault of humanity, they aim to 'free Tajaran from the new shackles imposed upon them by the corproate overlords' and return Adhomai to a 'free, prospoerous planet like our ancestors dreamed of'.

[[Category:Species]]