Lithai

Lithai is a fictional planet located in the fictional star system of Lyra, within the Andromeda Galaxy. First introduced in the 1988 novel "Starfall" by author Elara Vance, Lithai is depicted as a terrestrial world with a breathable atmosphere, albeit with a higher concentration of oxygen than Earth, leading to accelerated growth in some plant life. The planet's surface is characterized by vast, crystalline forests and shallow, mineral-rich seas.

The dominant sentient species on Lithai are the Lithians, a silicon-based lifeform. They are known for their slow metabolism, extended lifespans, and a collective consciousness facilitated by psionic abilities. Lithians are typically described as being tall and slender, with multifaceted eyes and a silicate-based exoskeleton that changes color according to their emotional state. Their society is highly communal and technologically advanced, with a focus on energy manipulation and bio-engineering. They have no concept of individual ownership, instead operating under a shared resource model.

Lithai's unique ecosystem supports a variety of flora and fauna. Notable species include the Lumina flora, which emits a soft bioluminescent light, and the Stonebeasts, large, slow-moving creatures that feed on mineral deposits. The planet's crystalline forests are a significant feature, with trees composed of solidified minerals that resonate with planetary energies. The shallow seas teem with microscopic life and are essential for the Lithians' silicon-based biology. Lithai is a planet that has remained largely isolated due to its remote location and the Lithians' preference for non-interference with other civilizations.