Rihannsu

Known to the Federation as Romulans.

The noble Rihannsu people reside on the planets ch'Rihan and ch'Havran, two lush, paradise worlds orbiting the star Eisn. Not native to those Two Worlds, the Rihannsu have descended from Vulcan millennia ago, having left the planet after the Reformation of Surak begun the age of logic and peace. Rihannsu have since evolved a bit differently. They lack the 'second eyelid' of their Vulcan cousins, but they do possess the superior hearing. The telepathic abilities of their ancestors have also been minimized and completely reduced, but the combat abilities of the Rihannsu have evolved to a superior level. Unlike their Vulcan cousins, the Rihannsu have developed a way to move almost with a complete silence (to sneak on others and to kill game), although this ability is taught rather than natural, and still requires training. This silent movement is aided by, and possibly in existence because of, the innate agility present in the species. Female Rihanha

Physically, the Rihannsu are a humanoid race, similar to Terrans but bearing more chiseled facial features and slanted eyebrows. Their hair color is either black or dark brown, and eyes range in similar hues, with a possible addition of dark blue or green. Diversion from the above is highly unusual and always considered as social stigma in this species that prides itself on its outlook and way of life. To alter hair color or wear makeup would be unheard of for a Rihanha, as it would mean to affect the already superior features that distinguish them from lesser races.

The pointed Vulcan ears, used to radiate excess heat, are still present in the race, but shortened and slightly more round. Like their distant cousins, Rihannsu have green, copper-based blood, giving their skin a faintly emerald tint that underlines the chiseled features. Both males and females of the species are about two to three times stronger than an average Terran, and bear a maximum lifespan of approximately 250 years, with 200 years being the norm. Rihannsu mature at the same rate that Terrans do, but do not show marks of old age until at least 150 years old.

Spiritually, the Rihannsu revere the Powers and Elements, and are deeply rooted in art and passion. The race possesses the highest artist per capita ratio in the entire known galaxy, and the Rihannsu race has produced breathtaking and glorious works of art, most impossible to imitate. The Rihannsu society has a very complex structure, but is of utter importance to the people of the Two Worlds. Proper forms and respect are the lifeblood of every day interaction, and the powerful noble houses lead its social and political life, preserving Rihannsu honor and safeguarding its future. The homeworlds of the race are said to be two of the most dazzling planets in the universe, but few non-Rihannsu ever see their surface.

Having left out of disagreement with the teachings of Surak that emphasized logic and lack of emotion, the early Rihannsu safeguarded the most prized values of the race - passion, curiosity, honor, art, emotion and respect. A distinctly isolationist culture, the Rihannsu revere loyalty and possess a strong sense of duty. They are known for their strong xenophobia, rooted in the belief that all Rihannsu things are of value, and placing other races below the slave caste of the Two Worlds. Internally, the Rihannsu prize military service and seemingly live for the intensity of emotions alone, holding their Empire and the service to it in the highest esteem possible. It is a society where men and women have always been equal, and the family structure is tight and cherished. Very territorial, aggressive and united, the Rihannsu have carved a strong place in the universe for themselves, now known, feared and respected by all, while cherishing a breathtaking culture and guarding it with passion.

	Rihannsu Males	Rihannsu Females
Height	between 5'7" and 6'3" (1.70m - 1.90m)	between 5'6" and 5'9" (1.67m - 1.75m)
Weight	between 145lbs to 250lbs (65kg - 113kg)	between 125lbs and 165lbs (56kg - 75kg)
Hair	black, occasional cases of dark brown	black, very rarely dark brown
Eyes	black, brown, hazel, occasionally green or blue	black, brown, hazel, dark colors
Skin	tan, olive, darker than average Terran	tan, olive, slightly darker than average Terran
Strength	stronger than average Terran	stronger than average Terran
Facial Features	chiseled and striking, the ears slightly pointed	chiseled, slightly softer than those of the males
Life Span	average 200 years	average 200 years
Children	-	average one child per pregnancy