The Gravak

The Gravak are a reptilian species native to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd ring. They have long slender bodies, no tail, and rather bulbous eyes. Their skin is generally blue, although splashes of green, red, and yellow create highlights and points of interest. Unlike other reptiles, the Gravak are warm-blooded. This adaptation as allowed them to evolve from their ancestors in a faster, smarter fashion - focusing on surviving in their unique environment. Their culture is complex even if it is young.

Basic Information

Genetics and Reproduction

The Gravak genetic pool is robust with hundreds of lines capable of combining and producing offspring. This is achieved when two Gravak copulate. The ritual takes place once a month and all Gravak are invited to participate. Due to their origin all those wanting to produce offspring gather in a 'T'sashis'.  A cave that has had it's floor hollowed out and in the depression a pool is created. The pool is filled with mucus created from special glands that usually become active once a Gravak has reached old age. The glands secrete the mucus in large quantities over a period of several days. The mucus contains a cocktail of hormones. Those who enter into the pool - usually one foot deep - become intoxicated and mating begins. The males release into the mucus as do the females. Thousands of eggs are fertilized in the three days that the pool remains viable. Thereafter the pool begins to harden. The fertilized eggs become entombed beneath a hard layer. After six months the eggs hatch and the offspring begin to consume one another until only five or six remain. These are deemed the strongest and the shell is broken by the elders. The young emerge and are welcomed into the tribe.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

The Gravak have excellent sight and are able to see colors from the visible and ultraviolet spectrims. Their hearing is not as acute however, and they are some times called the 'What' race as they are forced to ask many others speak louder. Their sense of smell is also limited and thus their taste is affected too resulting in a poor culinary experience for others. Touch is enhanced and they can feel a change in temperature to within a degree.

Civilization and Culture

History

Many legends abound of the Gravak's history. Some say the Gravak once lived on the planet, and only left when there was no hope of saving the planet from the gods. Other tribes will speak of the Gravak being born on the rings - emerging as a dominant species long before the other races. Whatever the origin the Gravak have multiplied and grown to cover the rings as far as they can. Although still very tribal the Gravak kept to themselves, avoiding trading with other races. After decades of strife, some of the tribes began to open up trade, but with reluctance, suspicion, and distrust.

Gravak Terms

Cha chura - Culture Warda - War Luvres - Love Hapti - Happy Solox - Sex Maal - Male Faal - Female Wardari - Warrior Padan - Father Wodan - Mother Ta Vlit - Treachery Jon Ur - Honor

Lifespan

60

Average Height

1.9m