Chiran

The chirans are an intelligent species uplifted from Terran bats by the artilect Helia.

Biology

Retaining a bat-like bodyplan, chirans mass about ten to fifteen kilograms on average, with disproportionately-larger heads to accomodate intelligent brains. Unlike the avens and sphinx, chiran arms and wings are integrated together, having a set of three fingers and a thumb at the second joint on each wing. The wings retain their membraneous lifting surface, though with more vibrant coloration which is often augmented with artificial tattooing.

As the first generations grew up, Helia offered each individual a choice between retaining the nocturnal activity cycle of their genetic ancestors or switching to a more conventional circadian rythym. This dichotomy resulted in the formation of two main strains of chiran culture.

Chirans can hang from their feet like bats, and often sleep in this manner.

Civilization and Culture

Common Dress Code

Chiran garments usually leave the head, wings, and feet uncovered.

Culture and Cultural Heritage

Chiran culture is divided into two major strains, commonly dubbed "Sun" and "Stars", according to whether their members embraced the nocturnal heritage of their genetic ancestors or sought to join most other Terran-descendent sapients in daytime activity. Star chirans tend to go their own way in terms of cultural traits, deliberately setting themselves apart from everyone else, while sun chirans are more integrated into the wider societies which surround them. Genetic modification can enable switching between these groups with relative ease, however in practice this tends to be frowned upon as indecisive behavior.

Common Taboos

Like all Children of Helia, the chirans have an absolute proscription against war with each other and the other Children.

History

Created by Helia during the Interstellar Dark Ages, the chirans remained unknown to wider civilization for some time on account of the collapse of the Starweb links to the Central Authority. Some humans on technologically-regressed planets, upon seeing them, thought they were aliens.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

The chirans get along well with the other Children of Helia, however star-focused groups tend to stay to themselves.

Scientific Name

Superchiroptera sapiens

Average Height

~1 meter

Average Weight

~10-15 kg

Average Length

~3-3.5 meters (wingspan)

Major Polities

Central Authority