Shahru

Shahru are a sentient species of saurian alien native to the planet Chaixis. They are rarely found outside their homeworld. They are known for their isolationist nature and fascination with technology.

Upon the first contact with Humans, they have been described to have the appearance reminiscent of two animal species previously found on the destroyed Iearth: Leopard Geckos and Frilled lizards. Their entire bodies are covered in soft-scaled skin that have varying colors depending on their heritage. Their features are surprisingly expressive. The frills around their necks are usually folded, but flare up when agitated. They are typically from 5'3 up to 5'7 feet tall. They are capable of rapidly moving using all of their four limbs, but typically remain upright, using their tails to balance themselves. They have a long lifespans, living up to two hundred years. However, their population growth is very slow.

They are intellectual species with a knack for engineering which is rooted in their biology. Their gecko-like eyes see multi-spectrum allow them to easily find design flaws where other species require the assistance of tools. Their limbs are nimble, dexterous and sensitive. They are very precise, even when working on microscopic designs and can use the touch to find imperfections in them. They can hold onto smooth surfaces and can often be seen climbing over the ship hulls in the docks of the Chaixis shipyards. They also have above average spatial cognition and perceive the world in patterns, which further aids them in their goals.

Gifted with the ability to come up with complex designs and the longevity needed to see them through, they dedicate themselves to their pursuits. They are obsessed with perfection and attached to their projects, often spending their entire lives perfecting them. In extreme cases, entire generations continue the work of their forefathers. They form a communities known as Artificer Guilds which govern their society. Their Guildmasters are the most respected and senior creators, known for their contributions to the Shahru society. Very few Shahru show interest in the life beyond their home planet. They are disinterested in wealth, power or politics. Their ultimate goal is to hone their craft and better their designs.

For the most of their history, they remained in isolation, focused on inward perfection. Unbeknown to them, their disinterest with the galactic affairs limited them, their potential was wasted for a long time. After making contact with the Humans, they begrudgingly lowered their standards and begun to produce simpler and cheaper designs that saw popularity. With Humans acting as middlemen, they gained the access to new technologies and possibilities. Now, the Chaixis Shipyards are a massive orbital complex, capable of building and servicing formidable capital ships and cargo haulers.