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Location: Neptara Convergence, Outer Rim of the Old Empire Sector
Moons: Five small moons (Mira, Asha, Teko, Nura, and Loma)
Atmosphere Clarity: High β among the clearest in the sector
Primary Occupants: Humans
Historical Significance: Strategic military and defense role during the founding of the Old Empire
Notable Features: Partial fossils of extinct catlike humanoids
Mjuka
Mjuka is a lush, vibrant planet characterized by its rolling emerald hills, expansive crystal-clear lakes, and sprawling forests filled with ancient flora. The landscape is punctuated by towering mountain ranges, their peaks often shrouded in mist, creating an otherworldly ambiance. The air is crisp with a slight sweetness, attributed to the unique plant life that flourishes in the highly oxygenated atmosphere. Mjuka's terrain is largely untouched by industrialization, maintaining its pristine beauty and ecological diversity.
The five small moonsβMira, Asha, Teko, Nura, and Lumaβserve no significant strategic or mineral purpose, hovering quietly in the night sky and casting gentle light over the surface. Despite their size, they add to the enchanting ambiance of Mjuka, creating ethereal landscapes during moonlit nights.
Mjuka boasts one of the clearest atmospheres in the Old Empire sector, resulting in breathtaking vistas and unmatched stargazing opportunities. The planet experiences a temperate climate, with gentle seasonal shifts that support diverse ecosystems. Warm, sun-drenched summers give way to cool, crisp autumns; winters are mild, with occasional soft snowfalls that blanket the landscape in a shimmering white. Spring awakens the planet with an explosion of colors, as flowers bloom and wildlife thrives.
Historically, Mjuka played a pivotal role during the formation of the Old Empire, serving as a crucial defense outpost due to its strategic location. The remnants of ancient fortifications dot the landscape, providing a glimpse into the planet's storied past. Today, these structures are often repurposed for educational and research purposes, attracting scholars, historians, and tourists eager to explore its rich heritage.
The legend of the catlike humanoids, known locally as the "Mjukari," pervades myths and folklore, though partial fossils have provided only inconclusive evidence of their existence. As such, Mjuka thrives on stories of the Mjukari's elusive nature, captivating the curiosity of both the populace and visitors. These creatures are said to have possessed extraordinary agility and intelligence, qualities that continue to inspire fascination and skepticism alike.
Mjuka is renowned as the first world successfully duplicated by the Terraformer's Circle of Fellowship, a feat that brought both acclaim and scrutiny. New Mjuka, however, has not achieved the same level of atmospheric clarity, prompting ongoing scientific studies to rectify the discrepancies. Research teams from around the Empire come to Mjuka to study its untouched biosphere and the delicate balance of its ecosystem, aiming to unlock the secrets to maintaining atmospheric purity in terraformed environments.
Recently, reports have surfaced regarding sightings of cat/humanoids resembling the Mjukari, stirring debate within the scientific community and sparking renewed interest in the legends of the past. However, like similar sightings from the nearby planet Drated, these claims remain unverified and are largely considered hoaxes. Skeptics argue that the allure of adventure and the thrill of discovery often lead to exaggerated or fabricated accounts, while fervent believers hold onto the hope that the Mjukari may still exist, hidden deep within the lush wilderness of Mjuka.
Mjuka stands as a beacon of natural beauty and historical significance in the Old Empire, a planet where the echoes of the past blend seamlessly with the aspirations of the future. With its thriving ecosystems, clarity of atmosphere, and ongoing scientific endeavors, Mjuka is not just a place of refuge for humans but a canvas upon which storiesβboth real and imaginedβcontinue to unfold.
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Tarthian Tour Company art by Jamin Allen and/or Kayelle Allen
Some artwork includes compilation imagery courtesy of Depositphotos, and/or Pixabay