Shadowling

The mysterious inhabitants of Tressence, the **Shadowlings** have never been fully seen, with only quick glimpses with use of bright lights. The planet perpetually remains coated in darkness, leaving it unattractive to most groups. Even if efforts are made, any colonies or facilities are quickly destroyed by the Shadowlings, who employ basic weaponry and their biology to do so. Any efforts to observe Shadowlings or contact them have also failed, with these groups either disappearing into the darkness or the Shadowlings avoiding any contact or light with their unique eyesight and speed. It is unknown how the Shadowlings survive or where they live on the planet, given its lack of notable terrain and plant life.

## Biology and appearance

The Shadowlings are an elusive species that inhabit the planet Tressence. They have never been fully observed or studied due to the perpetual darkness that engulfs their planet. Any attempts to view or interact with Shadowlings have been met with limited success, as they quickly vanish into the darkness or avoid contact.

Due to their elusive nature, little is known about the physical appearance of the Shadowlings. The only glimpses of them have been caught using bright lights, revealing fleeting images of their forms. Their bodies are shrouded in darkness, making it challenging to discern specific physical features or characteristics. Their unique biology allows them to blend seamlessly with the dark environment of Tressence.

It is estimated that the Shadowlings have long, lanky limbs and dark, pitch-black skin. Those that have survived attacks by them have reported sharp claws and jagged limbs, with spines covering a majority of the Shadowlings' body. The planet's perpetual darkness serves as both their sanctuary and their advantage. Shadowlings possess exceptional eyesight and speed, allowing them to navigate and thrive in the darkness with ease. Their eyes are adapted to low light conditions, enabling them to perceive their surroundings with precision. They have developed strategies to avoid contact with light sources, further enhancing their ability to remain hidden.

## Society and culture

The Shadowlings are highly territorial and fiercely protect their planet from outside intrusions. Despite the lack of notable terrain and plant life on Tressence, the Shadowlings have developed remarkable survival strategies. They employ their natural abilities, basic weaponry, and a deep understanding of their environment to repel any attempts at colonization or establishment of facilities by other groups.

The specific habitat or dwellings of the Shadowlings on Tressence remain a mystery. It is speculated that they may have adapted to live in subterranean areas or hidden enclaves within the planet's terrain. Their survival mechanisms likely rely on their ability to harness resources and sustain themselves in the unique ecosystem of Tressence, which remains largely unexplored by other species.

Any attempts to communicate or study the Shadowlings have been met with limited success. Those who have ventured into the darkness of Tressence either disappear without a trace or encounter evasive behavior from the Shadowlings. The lack of meaningful interactions or insights into their culture, social structure, or communication methods has made understanding the Shadowlings a significant challenge.

## History

Like the Formais of Silva Forma, the Shadowlings of Tressence have become a common ship tale among spacefarers. However, without the possibility of treasures, few are brave or stupid enough to travel to Tressence. The Shadowlings were first encountered by Orspeer cartographers, who attempted to locate any resources on the planet. The group was swiftly attacked and nearly destroyed, beginning the legend of the Shadowlings. Subsequent attempts by the Planetary Union, Circittan World Coalition, and various criminal groups have met similar fates. Without resources, little incentives exist for groups to attempt further attempts at exploring Tressence.