Wankenders

Wankenders is a fictional term used in speculative fiction and tabletop role-playing contexts to refer to a humanoid species. The term has no widely recognized real-world equivalent and is primarily encountered in fan fiction, fan wikis, and game materials. In many depictions, Wankenders are presented as an ocean-adapted people whose biology and culture shape their politics, religion, and technology. Because the term appears across multiple works with different worldbuilding details, no single canonical description exists.

Biology and society: Wankenders are typically depicted as tall, slender bipeds with average heights around 1.8 to 2.0 meters. They are described as having translucent, iridescent skin and gill-like structures suitable for aquatic or semi-aquatic environments, along with a sensory array along the crown. They are often characterized by extended longevity and a cultural emphasis on memory and continuity, relying on oral tradition and biometric records to preserve history. Political organization commonly centers on elder councils and kin-based clans, with technology that blends bioengineering and water-derived energy.

In media and use: The term appears in several novels, tabletop adventures, and community-driven wikis. Wankender storylines frequently explore themes of otherness, cooperation across species, and the tension between tradition and innovation. Reception within fan communities is mixed; some readers and players praise distinctive aesthetics and worldbuilding, while others critique the name’s linguistic resonance and potential offensiveness in English-speaking contexts. In formal discussions, editors and moderators may advise careful framing to avoid unintended connotations.