Ignis

The Ignis are the ancient and noble predecessors of the Taeski, and the descendants of the Okulaurum. Created by the Okulaurum millions of years ago, they ultimately rebelled against their masters, driving them deep underground. The Ignis then formed their own political and social systems, replacing their predecessors.

Ultimately, the Ignis were doomed to repeat the mistakes of their forefathers. They created the Taeski from their own genetics, and used them as a slave race. While some Taeski were favored by the Ignis, others were shunned. Eventually, revolution found its way to the Ignis, tearing them from the seat of their power. They were cast out into the deserts, where they sought to repent for their crimes by turning to pacifism and meditation.

This revolution also caused the schism amongst the Taeski, creating three separate breeds. Those Taeski who were favored by the Ignis were exiled and became the Crimson Dominion. Sympathizers with these Taeski were also exiled, and eventually re-emerged as the Keepers. The Taeski remaining in the Ignis strongholds became the Azure Empire, and sought to purge the world of their "ancient enemy" the Crimson Dominion.

The Ignis look exactly like the Taeski, physically, except for the fact that they grow out their hair. Their hair, like that of the Taeski, is formed from clear keratin strands and filled with stinging nematocysts. Ordinarily, a Taeski/Ignis' hair reacts instinctively, lashing out to sting anyone nearby the Taeski or Ignis does not trust. An Ignis, through careful meditation, can learn to control each strand independently. Most members of theri monasteries know this art, effectively giving them prehensile hair.

In addition to being able to control their hair, the Ignis have one trait in particular which is unique across the Galaxy: they can manipulate their own skeletal structure. This ability allows them to control the density of their bones as well as the shape. A common Ignis weapon is a sword grown directly from their own bodies. They can force spines out of their skin at will, create blades, or even grow more passive formations such as manipulation limbs, shields or armor. This trait makes the Ignis one of hte most dangerous opponents in combat, and one of the most difficult defensive units to overcome should they be attacked.