Verak

Verak is a fictional planet located in the fictional Orion Arm of the Milky Way galaxy. It is primarily known for its vast, crystalline forests and the unique silicon-based lifeforms that inhabit them. The planet's atmosphere is rich in nitrogen and argon, with trace amounts of methane, making it unsuitable for oxygen-breathing life. Verak's surface is characterized by extreme temperatures, with scorching days and freezing nights, and its geology is dominated by silicate rock formations.

The dominant species on Verak are the K'tharr, a sentient race that has adapted to the planet's harsh environment. The K'tharr are silicon-based, with bodies composed of interlocking crystalline structures. They communicate through a complex series of resonant frequencies and light pulses. Their society is largely communal, with a deep respect for the planet's natural cycles. They have developed advanced technologies focused on energy manipulation and atmospheric processing, allowing them to thrive despite the challenging conditions.

Verak's crystalline forests are a spectacle of natural engineering. The "trees" are not organic in the traditional sense but rather massive, slow-growing silicon structures that absorb and refract light, creating dazzling displays. These formations play a crucial role in the planet's ecosystem, providing shelter and energy for the K'tharr and other indigenous life. The planet has been a subject of interest for interstellar xenobiologists and geologists, though direct contact with the K'tharr has been limited due to the planet's remote location and environmental challenges.