Trandottan

An alien species originating from the Trandot System, **Trandottans** are short, furry mammals with an adaption to ammonia environments. As such, they require distinct breathing masks when off of their home system. Due to the Trandot Systems' involvement in the Race War, Trandottans spread across the galaxy during the aftermath. Trandottans place high value in productiveness in their culture, respecting even low skill jobs. As such, Trandottans can be found in all types of professions, commonly employed in mass as cheap labor. Trandottans don't mind these jobs to an extent, even appreciating their reputation as low class workers. Trandot I, mostly untouched by the war, became a center for Trandottan art and culture, serving a large population of retired Trandottans.

## Biology and appearance

Standing between 1 and 1.2 meters tall, Trandottans are relatively short in stature. Their bodies are covered in a dense layer of fur, which serves multiple purposes. The fur provides insulation, protecting them from the harsh conditions of their native ammonia environments. The fur itself can vary in texture, ranging from soft and silky to coarse and wiry, depending on the individual. It can be seen in various shades, including earthy tones like browns and grays, as well as more vibrant hues such as white or yellow.

One striking feature of a Trandottan is their large, expressive eyes. Trandottans have evolved to communicate a wide range of feelings and intentions through their eye movements and expressions. These expressive eyes are often a key aspect of Trandottan social interactions, allowing them to convey emotions, build connections, and establish trust. Unfortunately, Trandottans offworld of Trandot I miss this aspect, contributing the Trandottans associated social awkwardness.

When not wearing their protective gear, Trandottans resemble portly canines, having short snouts and large, floppy ears. Even as Trandottans take pride in both their fur and eyes, these aspects are typically covered by required protection, leaving the ears as the most recognized part of the Trandottan.

Trandottans are adapted to the ammonia rich atmosphere of the Trandot System; exposed to other atmospheres, Trandottans suffocate and their skin cracks. As such, Trandottans across the galaxy wear necessary gear and protection. The most striking are their signature gas masks. The masks filter air to make it breathable to the wearer and typically covers the wearers entire face. The extended hose of the mask often gives the illusion of an elongated trunk. Other protective measures include airtight protective suits and specialized thick cream for exposed skin.

###### Subspecies

The Ripagabii Le Trandottans originate from Trandot III. Though similar in stature to most Trandottans, the Ripagabii Le have larger, upright ears, and bizarre snouts, that instead of opening horizontally like most species, opens as four, teethed flaps. This makes the Ripagabii Le mostly unable to clearly communicate, though they appear near identical to Trandottans when wearing the needed protective gear offworld. After the destruction of Trandot III, the Ripagabii Le scattered across the galaxy and are now in few number.

## Society and culture

Trandottan culture places a strong emphasis on productivity and the value of work. They have a deep respect for all types of jobs, regardless of skill level, and believe that contributing to society, no matter the task, is important and worthy of recognition. This mindset has led Trandottans to be commonly employed in various professions, often in large numbers as a source of affordable labor, and in roles typically avoided by other species, such as waste management.

Trandottans take pride in their reputation as diligent workers, and while some may view their roles as low-class, Trandottans themselves appreciate the opportunity to contribute and make a difference. They are known for their strong work ethic, reliability, and ability to adapt to different environments and tasks. Trandottan society promotes a sense of unity and cooperation, with individuals often working collectively towards shared goals and achievements.

Trandottans have interacted with various species throughout the galaxy, particularly following the aftermath of the Race War in the Trandot System. They have established themselves as a widespread presence, often integrating into diverse societies and cultures. Trandottans are generally regarded as hardworking and reliable, which has earned them respect in many communities. However, their protective gear often disturbs the Trandottans' ability to communicate clearly.

Trandottans only retire late into their lifespan, often when natural degradation proves them unable to work manually. Most Trandottans, having saved from a lifespan of work and cheap living, retire in lavish lifestyles and participate in the arts. Trandot I, the planet largely unaffected by the Race War, has become a center for Trandottan art and culture. It serves as a haven for retired Trandottans, providing a space where they can celebrate their heritage, share their artistic expressions, and maintain a sense of community and identity.