The Ledev D'sahn

## Overview

The Ledev D'sahn are a species of reptilian beings with multi-colored scales, known for their deeply spiritual culture, their belief in Ledev Mysticism, and for having the Gift—the unique ability to sometimes see auras of living creatures. As one of the founding members of the Union of Planets, the Ledev D'sahn continue to play an integral role in the galactic scene.

Their home planet is D'sahn, which is relatively close to the solar system that contains Tel Adder and Tel 1.

## Physical Characteristics

Resembling a mix of reptilian and avian beings, Ledev D'sahn are covered in vibrant, multi-colored scales, often with colorful feathers. These beings have a wide range of body types—heavy, thin, tall and short—and are often found attractive by members of other species within the galactic scene.

## The Gift

"The Gift" is a unique ability possessed by all Ledev D'sahn, allowing them to perceive the auras of living creatures. It is said to be a gift from the Goddess Endella the Seer. This ability can reveal emotions, motives, aspects of a person's past, and even occasionally glimpses of the future. It it highly inconsistent among the Ledev; While some Ledev might only experience one or two visions in their lifetimes, others have more frequent and powerful visions. Proficiency with The Gift is highly valued in Ledev culture.

There is a strong taboo against scientific study of the Gift, leading to frustration by non-Ledev, who long for a rational explanation for their talents and the interesting or useful data such research might produce. Even those Ledev who don't feel themselves to be particularly religious or who follow different faith traditions than Ledev Mysticism strongly resist allowing anyone to use them as test subjects in this regard.

The discovery of a clandestine attempt to study the Gift performed by the Mission on Ledev criminals was one of the tensions that led to the commencement of the Somm War in 222C.

## Religion and Spirituality

Ledev Mysticism is the dominant religion among the Ledev D'sahn, with most Ledev having a deep connection to their gods. Ledev Mysticism has a small pantheon of gods, with some adherents believing in four gods, while others believe the last two gods are the same deity in different forms. This minor difference of theology is rarely a touchy subject among the Ledev.

While the vast majority of Ledev D'sahn adhere to Ledev Mysticism, there are still a few individuals who follow other faiths, such as Created, or those who have no religion at all. Ledev society is not entirely monolithic in this regard.

## Diet and Cuisine

The Ledev D'sahn have evolved to thrive on a diet consisting primarily of sugary dishes, requiring only trace amounts of other minerals and vitamins. Their unique ability to subsist on sweets is seen as a spiritual gift from Charis the Maker. Ledev desserts are renowned and highly sought after throughout the galactic scene. In many species, it is common to playfully refer to a child with a sweet tooth as a "little Ledev."

## Culture and Society

With their culture deeply rooted in spirituality and Ledev Mysticism, the Ledev D'sahn are a harmonious society that values their connection to their gods and their innate abilities. Ledev names always include "Ledev," such as Ledev Radi or Ledev Herra, reflecting their strong identification with their people. Traditional Ledev clothing consists of flowing skirts with the chest partly covered or completely uncovered.

The Ledev D'sahn have an extended adolescence, reaching maturity in their late twenties due to social reasons rather than physiological factors. Their lifespans range from 150 to 250 S years, which contributes to their lack of urgency in "growing up."

## Role in the Union of Planets

Initially forming a modest alliance with the Tellia, the Ledev D'sahn played a crucial role in the evolution of this partnership into the modern Union of Planets. They have remained highly active and integrated within the Union. A small minority of Ledev have joined the Dead, making them one of the least represented species in that region of space.