Surniic

Surniic, Xeviron III, or Quirpira by the Yictan, is a territorial world of the Xeviron System within the Orion Arm of the Milkyway Galaxy. Little information about Surniic during the time of the Yictan is known as it contains only one ruin. However, the Caniic Hierarchy has theorized that these were of the scientific sort thanks to the sheer amount of artifacts uncovered and that it was one of massive size composing of nearly 70 square miles. Other than its capital of Surniic Town and one frontier outpost, Surniic is largely unexplored and untamed.

Geography

Surniic is primarily a terrestrial world with a variety of landscapes and geographic features. The planet is mostly covered in dense forests and rocky terrain, with some grasslands and small bodies of water scattered throughout.
The most prominent feature on Surniic is the Aurrica Canyon, which stretches for 347 miles and reaches depths of up to 6,754 feet. The canyon is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, making it a popular destination for tourists and Caniic xenobiologists alike. Other notable geographic features on Surniic include the Avidia Mountain Range, located in the northern hemisphere. These mountains reach heights of up to 12.8 kilometers.
In the southern hemisphere, there is the Miirca Desert, which covers roughly 10% of the planet's surface. This desert is known for its extreme temperatures, reaching highs of 40.5°C (105°F) during the day and dropping to as low as -45.5°C (-50°F) at night. Surniic also has several smaller bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. The largest lake on the planet is Lake Cervus, located near the equator. It spans over 100 square miles and is home to various aquatic species.
Thanks to its diverse geography, Surniic offers a wide range of activities for visitors from hiking through mountains and exploring canyons to swimming in lakes or camping in forests. Despite being largely unexplored, Surniic's natural beauty has drawn many tourists in recent years, leading to an increase in development around its capital city of Surniic Town. However, efforts are being made to preserve its untouched areas for future generations to enjoy.

Climate

The climate of Surniic is characterized by marked seasonal variations, with distinct differences between its winter and summer months. The planet has a temperate climate, but due to its elliptical orbit around its sun, temperatures can vary greatly throughout the year.
Winters on Surniic are typically cold and harsh, with temperatures dropping to as low as -45.5°C (-50°F). The planet's axial tilt also contributes to colder winters in certain regions. The northern hemisphere tends to experience more extreme winters due to being tilted away from the sun during this season. Summers on Surniic are warmer, reaching highs of 40.5°C (105°F). The southern hemisphere experiences hotter summers due to being tilted towards the sun during this season. However, even in the summer months, evenings can still be relatively cool compared to daytime temperatures.
Surniic experiences frequent rainfall throughout the year, with an average precipitation rate of 60 inches annually. This adds to the planet's lush vegetation and makes it a haven for various plant and animal species.
There are also occasional storms on Surniic, mostly in the form of thunderstorms with strong winds and heavy downpours. These storms are more common in the spring and early summer months but can occur at any time throughout the year.

Biodiversity

Surniic is teeming with a diverse range of species, making it a haven for biologists and nature enthusiasts. The planet's unique geography has contributed to the evolution of many alien creatures that are found nowhere else in the galaxy.
The forests of Surniic are home to a variety of plant life, from towering trees to smaller shrubs and bushes. Some of the most notable species include the tall Techrona trees, which can grow up to 50 meters in height and have brightly colored leaves that change color throughout the year. The Arbonia bushes, on the other hand, produce small but vibrant flowers that attract numerous pollinators.
In addition to its vegetation, Surniic is also home to a wide range of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. One of the most iconic creatures on the planet is the Bovorn, a large herbivorous mammal resembling a rhinoceros with a thick coat of fur and two large horns on its head. These majestic animals roam freely in herds throughout Surniic's grasslands.
Another notable species is the Kryten bird, known for its striking plumage and impressive ability to mimic sounds from its surroundings. These birds are often found in dense forests where they communicate with each other through elaborate songs. The Desira lizard is a unique creature found exclusively in Surniic's desert regions. This reptile has adapted to survive extreme temperatures by burrowing underground during the day and emerging at night to hunt for food.
Surniic's bodies of water also support a rich aquatic ecosystem. The largest lake on the planet, Lake Cervus, is home to various fish species such as Shimmerscale fish and Stripedfin trout. The lake also supports a population of amphibians like Frogleaps and Waterhoppers. However, despite its abundance of wildlife, Surniic also faces threats to its biodiversity. The growing Caniic presents a significant challenge, however, the caniic are careful not to disrupt natural habitats of the native wildlife.

Known Residents

Yictan

The Yictan were the first non-native sentient species to inhabit Surniic. They arrived on the planet tens of millions of years ago and built advanced cities and structures before eventually disappearing. The Caniic have discovered numerous ruins and artifacts left behind by the Yictan, but very little is known about their culture or way of life. Despite their legacy on Surniic, there are no remaining traces of living Yictan on the planet. It is speculated that they may have left long ago due to some catastrophic event or simply died out over time. But their presence continues to fascinate and intrigue Caniic scientists.

Caniic

The Caniic are the most recent sentient species to inhabit Surniic. They arrived on the planet 35 years ago in 2690, establishing a civilian colony and a scientific research base. However, they also built a militaristic outpost to protect their interests on the planet.
The Caniic are a highly advanced and technologically advanced species, but have a short history of space exploration and colonization; only just mastered hyperspace technology, Surniic is their first colony outside their home system. Caniic society is highly disciplined and organized. They have a meritocratic government where individuals are promoted based on their abilities and accomplishments. Caniic culture places a high value on honor, discipline, and loyalty.

Astrographical

System

Xeviron System

Orbiting

Xeviron

Orbital position

Third Planet

Moon(s)

1; Avidia

Physical

Diameter

15,750 kilometers (9,786.5 miles)

Gravity

0.986 G

Length of day

55 Hours

Length of year

268 Days

Atmosphere

0.876 (N2, O2, Ar)

Surface temperature

-45.5°C to 40.5°C (-50°F to 105°F)

Societal

Species

Yictan (non-native)

Caniic (non-native)

Population

7,822

Government

Caniic Hierarchy