Kreftite
Kreftites are the largest, most powerful, and intelligent species on their home-world of Krefton. They are large insectoid creatures with long bladed arms and powerful hind legs.
Overview
Physiology
The Kreftites have a long and slender body that is divided into three segments: the head, the thorax, and the abdomen. The body is covered by a hard exoskeleton that protects them from injuries and predators. The exoskeleton can vary in color and pattern depending on the clan and the environment of the Kreftites. Some common colors are green, brown, yellow, and black.They have two pairs of wings that are attached to the thorax. The wings are thin and transparent, with veins and scales that create patterns and colors. The wings can be folded or spread depending on the situation. The wings can be used for flying, gliding, or cooling. The wings can also produce sounds by rubbing or flapping. Their abdomen is long and flexible and can bend and twist in different directions. The abdomen contains the vital organs and the reproductive system of the Kreftites. The abdomen can also store food or water for later use. The abdomen ends with a tail that can act as a stinger.
The Kreftites have a triangular head that can rotate 180 degrees, allowing them to have a wide range of vision. They have two large compound eyes that can detect movement and colors. They also have two antennae that can sense chemical signals and vibrations. They have a pair of mandibles that can bite and chew food or enemies. They have a mouth that can suck liquids or spit venom.
The Kreftites have six legs that are attached to the thorax. The front pair of legs are modified into raptorial arms that have sharp claws and spines. These arms are used for catching and holding prey or tools. The middle pair of legs are used for walking and running. The hind pair of legs are used for jumping and kicking. The legs can also have spikes or hairs for defense or decoration.
Lore
Culture and Society
Kreftite society is a caste based system where large and powerful individuals are at the top, in the warrior caste. The next caste consist of the scientist and researchers. The bottom tier of their society is the laborer caste, which is not only made up of those that are too weak or unintelligent to be placed any higher, but also any of the insects enslaved or bred by the Kreftites.
There is one final caste above all others, the Royal caste, members of this caste are believed to be superior to all others, distinguished not only by their size and intelligence, but also by the vibrant colors of their exoskeletons. The Royals include the queen, her retainers, and her offspring.
Technology and Science
The Kreftites use their bio-engineered insects for a variety of functions. For example, they use giant beetles as mounts or vehicles; they use fireflies as light sources or signals; they use hornets as weapons or scouts; they use ants as workers or builders; they use butterflies as messengers or spies; they use spiders as weavers or healers; they use bees as farmers or pollinators. The Kreftites have a deep understanding of biology and chemistry, which allows them to manipulate the genes and behaviors of their insect allies. They also have a basic knowledge of astronomy and physics, which helps them navigate the stars and measure time.
History and Politics
The Kreftites evolved from a primitive species of mantis-like creatures that lived in the jungles of Krefton. They gradually developed intelligence, language, culture, and technology over millions of years. They faced many challenges and threats from natural disasters, predators, diseases, wars, invasions, rebellions, revolutions, etc. They also achieved many accomplishments and wonders in art, science, religion, exploration, etc. There is a growing tension and rivalry between two factions: the traditionalists who serve the current queen, Caviarra, and her regime of continuing to develop their species as it has ; and the followers of an exiled royal who wishes to expand their empire further out into the stars.
Myths and Legends
The myth of Krefa, the mother goddess who created Krefton and all life on it. She shaped the land, filled the water, planted the seeds, and breathed life into the insects. She also gave birth to the first Kreftites, who were her children and her servants. She taught them how to use their insect allies and how to worship her.
The myth of Kres, the god of death and rebirth. He is a solemn and mysterious god who rules over the underworld, where he judges the souls of the dead. He also controls the cycle of life and death, as he decides when something dies and when something is born. He is feared and revered by all Kreftites, who hope for his mercy and favor.
The legend of Kragnar, the hero who united the clans and founded the first empire. He was a brave and wise leader who fought against many enemies and dangers. He also made many discoveries and inventions that improved the lives of his people. He was loved and respected by all Kreftites, who called him the father of their nation.