Thoriss

Thoriss is a fictional planet featured in the science fiction novel "A Fire Upon the Deep" by Vernor Vinge. It is a world inhabited by the Tines, a species of sentient, pack-minded dog-like creatures. The Tines are characterized by their intelligence and their complex social structure, which relies on the cooperation of multiple individuals forming a single consciousness. Thoriss is described as a world with a harsh environment, requiring the Tines' unique abilities to survive.

The planet plays a significant role in the novel's narrative, serving as a primary setting for a portion of the story. It is here that the protagonist, Jefri, encounters a group of Tines and learns about their unusual biology and society. The Tines of Thoriss are depicted as both primitive and highly advanced in their own way, their collective intelligence allowing them to overcome challenges that might be insurmountable for solitary beings. Their technology is integrated with their biology, reflecting their pack-based nature. The concept of "The Power" is also intrinsically linked to Thoriss, as it is the source of the Tines' unique abilities and societal organization. The planet and its inhabitants highlight themes of intelligence, communication, and the diversity of life in the universe as explored by Vinge.