Edited By
Nina Elmore

The Kark, an advanced crustacean species, play a crucial role in the Exodus Fleet, showcasing a unique moment of peace amidst the chaos of conflict. Their encounter with the Exodus fleet marks the first successful attempt at diplomacy with an advanced civilization.
In a groundbreaking departure from pre-emptive warfare, the Kark offered sanctuary to the Exodus Fleet as it fled a devastating threat known as the Deadlight. As their universe crumbled, the Kark prioritized refuge and collaboration over aggression, a shift in perspective that remains rare among civilizations facing peril.
Sources reveal that the Kark are estimated to comprise about 2% of the total fleet population, roughly a quarter of all alien species on board.
Sapient Beings: The Kark exhibit heightened intelligence, driving much of the early development in the human-Kark collaborations, especially in technology such as the Leper AI warframes.
Pacifist Nature: Externally, they are known for their pacifist tendencies, viewing other life forms as precious and worthy of protection.
Unique Physiology: With a lifespan of up to 1,000 years, Kark are resilient, featuring advanced regenerative capabilities and exceptional environmental tolerance.
"They are the clearest proof we ever tried to do this another wayโand the clearest proof why we donโt anymore," stated Dr. H. Quilas, lead researcher on Kark integration.
Interestingly, internal societal structures among the Kark differ significantly between the sexes. Males are characterized as territorial and aggressive, often engaging in competition to establish hierarchies through dubious
There's a solid likelihood that the Kark will continue to foster cooperative relationships with other species in the Exodus Fleet. Experts estimate around 70% chance that such partnerships could lead to technological innovation, particularly in AI and weaponry, potentially reshaping the dynamics of their universe. As they build trust with other civilizations, expect the Kark's influence to extend beyond mere diplomacy, possibly paving the way for collective resistance against threats like the Deadlight. This new paradigm, where collaboration reigns over conflict, might become a blueprint for future interspecies relationships, fostering peaceful coexistence in a war-torn universe.
The Kark's journey resonates with a lesser-known moment in human history: the mutual aid agreements among European countries during the Black Death. Instead of waging war, nations faced with devastating plagues chose solidarity over selfishness to manage survival, sharing resources and knowledge. Just as those earlier efforts led to renewed prosperity after turmoil, the Kark's diplomatic stance today reflects a profound lesson in resilience and unity. Both instances reveal how dire circumstances can spark unexpected alliances, emphasizing that even in chaos, a commitment to peace can reshape futures in remarkable ways.