Hylotl

The Hylotl are a fictional amphibious humanoid species in the Starbound universe. They originate on ocean worlds and are renowned for culture, civility, and a philosophical approach to life and conflict. They are often portrayed as artists and scholars with a strong emphasis on harmony with their environment.

Biology and physiology: Hylotl are slender and humanoid, with webbed hands and feet, gills along the neck, and fins on the head and forearms. They can breathe both air and water, enabling prolonged underwater activity and terrestrial exploration. Skin tones range from blue to teal, frequently with decorative markings.

Society and culture: Hylotl society prioritizes art, learning, and diplomacy. Their architecture features water elements, flowing lines, and ornate details inspired by East Asian aesthetics. Education, poetry, music, and seasonal rituals are valued, and etiquette and restraint are common in daily life. While generally pacifist, they maintain the means to defend themselves when necessary.

History and politics: The Hylotl Empire once spanned many worlds, reflecting a long-established, structured civilization. In later eras they adopted a more isolationist stance to preserve their heritage and reduce external disruption. They interact with other civilizations through trade and diplomacy, though ideological differences occasionally lead to conflicts or tense relations.

Technology and in-game presence: Technologically advanced, the Hylotl possess spacefaring capabilities and architectural ingenuity that harmonizes form with function. In Starbound, they appear as a playable race and as encounters across various systems, often distinguished by their distinctive aesthetic, peaceful diplomacy, and exploration-focused missions.