The Eva

## Overview

The Eva are an uplifted species native to the planet Nedak. They were integrated into the Mission in the year 329C, largely due to the fascination the Sora held for their domesticated creatures, ceverels, and a unique product, the Evaflowa Candle, both of which were fast-tracked into being chosen as exceptionals. While not a prominent player in the galactic scene, the Eva have made modest contributions to the Mission, especially as ceverel experts, handlers, and breeders.

## Physical Appearance and Temperament

Eva are medium-sized beings, with a compact build. Their bodies are covered in a mosaic of vibrant colors, typically in hues of blue and green, reminiscent of the dense forests of Nedak. Eva are distinguished by their ornate, vestigial antler-like structures emerging from their foreheads. Their hands are known for being quite dexterous.

The Eva are a somewhat passive species who embody a "go with the flow" attitude towards life. There is fierce debate in some circles as to whether or not the species actually *wanted* to be uplifted and assimilated into the Mission, but it's notoriously difficult to get a straight answer to this question from an Eva. Some have posited the Mission exploited the Eva by uplifting them without very carefully ascertaining their desire to be uplifted.

## Lifespan and Aging

Eva's average lifespan is approximately 55 S years, entering their declining years at about age 40, when the vibrancy of their skin colors fade subtly with time. While nanobots still have the desired effect of allowing the Eva to survive in non-native environments, they have not had the same life-lengthening effects that they usually offer to other species. The Eva are known for their lack of fear regarding natural death and tend to age gracefully.

## Evolution and History

The Eva evolved from a tree-dwelling ancestor on Nedak around half a million years ago. Their richly colored skin can be traced back to this arboreal past, providing an effective camouflage in the verdant forest environment. The evolution of their antler-like structures is still a subject of debate among evolutionary scientists within the Mission. It was their progression into a hunter-gatherer society that saw the domestication of ceverels, a cornerstone of their civilization.

## The Path to Uplifting

The uplifting of the Eva by the Mission, controversially justified under the Rule of 55, is viewed by many as an exploitation of the interventionism policy. Critics argue that the uplifting was prompted more by the Sora's infatuation with ceverels and the unique Evaflowa Candles, rather than the Eva's readiness for integration. These two things were adopted as exceptionals with remarkable speed. Despite this controversy, the Eva have adapted to life in the Mission somewhat, proving themselves capable learners and contributors.

## Influence in The Mission

The Eva have a minimal political presence in the Mission due to their recent inclusion and relatively small population, however they have come to be seen as indispensable due to their in-depth knowledge of ceverel breeding, keeping, handling, and so on. Many Eva now live on Sorall or other places in the Mission with a large Sora population.

## Exceptionals

Two distinct cultural achievements from the Eva have been recognized by the MCAA as "exceptionals": The ceverels and the Evaflowa Candles.

1. Ceverels: These catlike creatures, the size of a large canine, are renowned for their beautiful scalloped ears and diverse coat patterns. They are known for their friendly, curious natures and their love of sapients who give them attention. These rather docile creatures almost never attack any sapients, although they do pounce on and devour small mammals and reptiles. Ceverels are treasured as pets, companions, service animals, and watch animals.
2. Evaflowa Candles: The other recognized exceptional is the Evaflowa Candle. These candles emit a captivating, thick, aromatic smoke that forms dense, mesmerizing structures in the air. The delightful scent and visual spectacle have made these candles a favorite among various species in the Mission and beyond.

## Religion

A polytheistic tree-spirit faith known as Arborism was chosen for the Eva by the Soran Order. Most Eva continue to follow it, although of course a few have been enticed by Created or atheism/agnosticism.