The Howaks
The Shadow of Xenomoria Originating from the planet Xenomoria, the Howaks are an ancient civilization living in the solar system immediately neighboring that of the Astrocols. However, the existence of the Howaks has remained an absolute secret for millennia. Their planet is covered by a perpetual shield of thick, opaque clouds, making any visual observation impossible from space. Furthermore, using no nuclear technology, their ships and cities emit no radiative signature detectable by conventional scanners. They draw their power from an unknown and silent energy source.
The Observation Paradox
A unique historical fact links the Howaks, the Astrocols, and Earth. The Howaks have been studying humanity in complete stealth for a very long time. The most fascinating aspect is that Howak and Astrocol ships have often observed Earth simultaneously, sometimes patrolling the same sectors of our atmosphere, without ever crossing paths or detecting each other. The two civilizations have brushed past one another like two ghosts, in total mutual ignorance.
Biology and Environment
The Howaks evoke humanoid feline predators, with intense red skin striped with black. Diet: Strictly carnivorous, they do not cook. They feed exclusively on prey (small animals or fish) ingested alive.
The Atmosphere:
There is a major biological incompatibility between their worlds and Earth. While Earth's air is toxic in the long term for a Howak (reducing their life expectancy), the air of Xenomoria possesses regenerative virtues for humans, allowing them to live much longer.
A Matriarchal Society Howak hierarchy is dictated by extreme sexual dimorphism, placing females at the top of the chain of command. The Females: Sharp, fast, and gifted with superior strategic intelligence, they occupy all positions of power, from ship piloting to the Queen's throne.
The Males:
Slow, heavy, and endowed with colossal brute strength, they serve exclusively as labor and shock troops.
Commander Zelox Neroti
An iconic figure, Commander Zelox Neroti rules her crew through absolute terror, using her right of summary execution at the slightest error. On Earth, she operates with the same iron fist. She has woven a secret network to obtain resources unavailable on Xenomoria (raw materials, Champagne, cigars). For her human suppliers, collaborating with her is a mix of dream and nightmare: The Hope: She promises them that one day, they will board her ship to leave Earth and benefit from the longevity offered by Xenomoria's air.
The Terror:
Her predatory appearance with red skin and black stripes paralyzes her contacts. They know she commands a ruthless army and that her ship's technology allows her to hear everything, anywhere. Out of fear of being spotted and eliminated, no one dares to betray her or even speak her name.
It is this total domination that she celebrates in her anthem: "I Rule the Stars Above".