Codex Entry: The Imperial Ruthlessness of the Zeelas

While the Valoran Empire is run by the Pure Bloods--true valorans--it's made up of many species. One of the most influential among the lesser races are the zeelas. Today, let's take a closer look at them!

Art by Tom Edwards and David Hart

  Conniving in nature, the zeelas were the first race to be assimilated into the Valoran Empire. Since that time hundreds of years ago, the relationship with the Pure Bloods and the zeelas has been rocky at best. Dozens of times in the past, they've attempted to overthrow the Pure Bloods, and every time they've failed.

   When overt methods didn't work, they tried their hands at working their way up the political hierarchy. Although that method of taking power hasn't worked so far, it did highlight a strength of theirs: the zeelas were unabashedly ruthless.

   If any other race attempted to overtake their number two spot, they were punished with chemical weapons and artificially induced famines. These punishments became twice as harsh after zeelas became synonymous with the role of the Emperor's Advisor. Now, non-spacefaring races were conscripted to the frontlines in any battle that the Empire fought, ensuring they didn't receive the opportunity to advance.

   Although it's not uncommon for non-spacefaring races to be transported to different worlds for slave use, zeelas are still the most popular choice for servants. Despite their lean build, they're surprisingly strong and durable, able to take copious amounts of punishment while still working as hard as a healthy person.

Unlike the Pure Bloods, who pride themselves in elegance and their flowery vocabulary, zeela servicemen are blunt and to the point. Their fleet commanders--warlords as they're called--are hated by the Pure Bloods for the fact they barely communicate. 

   Despite that, zeelas are valued as offensive assets in naval combat, striking first so the Pure Blood Imperials can get a read on their enemy.