The Zarans are a sapient species that closely resemble Terran great apes—primarily chimpanzees and orangutans—with similar body structure, expressive facial features, and a natural inclination for climbing. Zaran society evolved in arboreal environments, and their cities are uniquely designed around elevated platforms, walkways, and structures suspended in or among trees.
Renowned as brilliant engineers, the Zarans are valued across the Compact and beyond for their mechanical expertise and design innovation—particularly in spacecraft construction. Their cultural hallmark is sarcasm, often wielded with surgical precision, and their distinctive hooting laughter frequently punctuates conversation, contrasting the more humanoid bark-like laughter of the Gelt.
Despite their neutrality during major conflicts, the Zarans quietly supported the Amargosan resistance during the Gelt Occupation by continuing trade, subtly smuggling in supplies, components, and intelligence. This quiet defiance endeared them to many on Amargosa while preserving their diplomatic cover.
Appearances: Chasing Eternity, Suicide Run