Esh'krin

## Esh'krin - The followers of the Sun

The Esh'krin [ɛʃˈkrɪn], an enigmatic and unique race in the Nexarion solar system, possess a tall stature with six limbs, four of them are used as arms while the other two enable an upright gait.

The Esh'krin's exoskeleton, which plays a pivotal role in their adaptation to the harsh desert environment of Xeraxis, boasts a unique iridescence, refracting light in an array of mesmerizing colors. The exoskeleton's innate strength affords them impressive durability, while a special integumentary structure aids in conserving moisture, an essential trait for survival in the arid wastelands. The legs, powerful and sturdy, facilitate their upright stance and bipedal movement. Remarkably, they can withstand Xeraxis's extreme temperatures that can reach up to 95°C/203°F, thanks to a combination of physiological adaptations, specialized thermoregulation, and protective integumentary mechanisms. Facial features of the Esh'krin display pronounced articulation, enabling a remarkable range of expressions and facilitating their hissing language. Large, multifaceted eyes provide acute vision, an advantageous adaptation for spotting distant objects.

However, their most notable characteristic lies in their mode of communication. Uttering hissing sounds in their native tongue. These sounds can be heard all throughout the vast deserts of Xeraxis, giving other species an uneasy feeling, hearing these hisses and clicks. When talking to other races in Galatic Tret they tend to draw out their words, creating a sibilant symphony that mirrors their desert homeland's whispering winds.

### Nomadic Existence

Their lives are intertwined with the vast expanses of Xeraxis, where nomadic tribes traverse the shifting red sands. While the desert's unforgiving conditions may seem inhospitable, the Esh'krin have unlocked its hidden treasures. They possess an inherent understanding of the desert's resources, capable of extracting life-sustaining sustenance from seemingly barren landscapes. Their profound intimacy with the desert's flora and fauna allows them to harness nature's provisions in innovative ways, fashioning tools, clothing, and shelter from what the desert offers.

Though sparse in population, permanent cities do exist, acting as anchors amidst the desolation. One such city, the capital, is home to the revered Dunessh of Nah'aar, a testament to their devotion to the sun goddess. Within the cities, a unique structure emerges. Led by an 'Aari, these spiritual leaders, guide their communities with wisdom. Some cities, however, boast even higher religious authorities than an 'Aari. Notably, Esh'krin society is deeply steeped in religion, anchored by their belief in Nah'aar, the sungoddess of Naheaa. This devotion has birthed the Nah'aarian Brotherhood, a cornerstone of Esh'krin identity. Embracing this faith, nearly all Esh'krin, irrespective of gender, are members of the Brotherhood, earning them the moniker "Sunbrothers." This unifying term echoes across Xeraxis, reflecting their peaceful nature, extending beyond religious affiliation to encompass all individuals, races, and walks of life.

While the majority of people remain on Xeraxis, some Esh'krin have ventured beyond their desert home to find a place within the complex cultural mosaic of Nexus Prime, yet their ascent to the presidency remains unattained.

### Leadership and Limited Trade

The political landscape of Xeraxis is a patchwork of tribal leadership, where elected or strong leaders guide their people through the desert's challenges. Notably, they engage in limited trade and possess a modest fleet of spacecraft for exploration. Their military presence is minimal, with a scattering of mercenary ships. The Esh'krin's intergalactic trade is humble, marking them as one of Nexarion's smaller economies.