Homeworld: Gohem
Genetic Origin: Homo neanderthalensis (Neanderthal)
Also Known As: “Terrag cousins,” “Neanderthal humans”
Summary:
Orags are a sapient offshoot of humanity, genetically descended from Neanderthals and transplanted from Earth to the planet Gohem by an unknown entity known in Orag myth as the “Sky Fathers.” They are close genetic relatives of Homo sapiens—similar enough to interbreed, but distinct enough to warrant separate medical classifications. The Orags developed independently of Earth humans, retaining a more biologically conservative population model and cultivating advanced medical science over engineering.
Orags are notable for their bio-overwrite rejuvenation, a process that renders them effectively amortal. All adult Orags are expected to undergo this treatment, and as a result, visible aging is virtually nonexistent in their society. The only exception is their ceremonial monarch, the Khreg, who traditionally forfeits rejuvenation as a symbolic rejection of eternal ruleTheir society values informality and decentralization, exhibiting disdain for rigid hierarchy except where culturally meaningful. Orag governance includes civilian councils and ceremonial figures, with leadership roles not always translated to equivalent human terms.
Appearances: Storming Amargosa, Chasing Eternity, Suicide Run