The Goral

## Overview

The Goral are a sentient species native to the planet of Tel Adder, sharing a common ancestry with the Tellia. They are characterized by their stouter bodies, thicker exoskeletons, and more reserved temperament. The Goral primarily reside in the Goralli Isles, where they have lived in isolation for approximately 20,000 years. While they are part of the Union of Planets, their interest in space travel and involvement in the Union is minimal.

## Physical Characteristics

Gorals have stouter bodies compared to the Tellia, with much thicker exoskeletons that cover the majority of their bodies and faces. This physical difference has, among other things, led to the past assumption that they were less intelligent than the Tellia, but modern research has shown that their behavioral differences are more closely related to temperament than cognitive abilities.

## History

The Goral and Tellia species share a common ancestor, Feckka Limalis (aka the Rock Ape). They diverged from this common ancestor around 190,000 years ago, evolving separately and adapting to their respective environments. The Goral eventually settled in the Goralli Isles, where their population remained isolated for about 20,000 years.

Although they had anciently interacted and even interbred, "first" contact after their long isolation took place roughly in the year -1400C when Tellian explorers rediscovered the Goralli Isles and its Goral inhabitants. Initially, the Tellia struggled to appreciate the Goral's intelligence, as it manifested differently from their own. However, this misunderstanding miraculously did not lead to a tragic outcome for the Goral, and they were able to maintain their unique culture and way of life.

## Biome

The Goralli Isles, home to the Goral, are characterized by a temperate deciduous forest biome. The Goral have adapted to this environment, and it has played a role in shaping their culture and way of life.

## Modern Day

### Goral Collective

The Goral have a loose government known as the Goral Collective, which is technically part of the Union of Planets. However, the Goral are largely disinterested in space travel and involvement in the Union. A few exceptions exist, but not enough Goral have sought to participate in the Union for the typical five senator representation in the Union Senate. As a result, the five Tellian senators are responsible for representing both Tellia and Goral interests.

### Criticisms and Representation

There have been some criticisms that the Goral do not receive the treatment they deserve from the Union, given their lack of direct representation. However, the Goral themselves have never expressed personal involvement in these critiques, and as a result, the issue has largely been tabled.

### Interbreeding

Tellia and Goral are capable of interbreeding, but such occurrences are rare and not widely accepted in either Tellian or Goral society.

### Temperament and Society

Goral temperament differs significantly from that of the Tellia. They are less inquisitive and less likely to take risks, finding contentment in small extended family units of about 40 people. This difference in temperament has contributed to the Goral's unique cultural development and their preference for a more insular way of life.