The Shadows

The Shadows were once a proud, aristocratic society ruled by their Royal family, a select group of individuals handpicked by the Rulers. These chosen leaders were easily identifiable by the crowns that floated above their heads, symbols of their divine selection and their ability to command the shadows at will. Under their reign, the Shadows thrived, guided by the wisdom and power of their royal bloodline.

However, everything changed when Caroline, the princess of the Lights, driven by grief and rage over the death of her parents, mistakenly believed the Shadow royal family to be responsible for their loss. In a blind fury, she slaughtered the Shadow queen, forever altering the course of their history. This tragic event left the Shadow people in turmoil, their leadership shattered and their future uncertain.

Over the course of a decade, a war known as the Eclipse ravaged the planet. The Shadows lost 80% of their population, including their grieving King, who fought fiercely to stand his ground, despite being outnumbered by their Light counterparts. The Eclipse forever changed the fabric of Shadow society, leaving them scarred, both physically and emotionally.

In the aftermath of this devastation, Daine, a former advisor, stepped forward to take on the mantle of leadership. She was not chosen by the Rulers like her predecessors, but her strength and resolve quickly earned her the respect of her people. Daine rose to power during the Eclipse, a time when the Shadows were already in disarray, and through her determination, she united the fractured people and began rebuilding their society.

As the leader of the Shadows, Daine holds the final say on matters of importance, yet she values the voices of her people. She listens to their concerns and is guided by their words, understanding that her decisions affect not just her, but the future of her people. To support her in her role, Daine has appointed her most trusted advisor, Traike, and formed a group of Elites, highly trained individuals who serve as both the authorities and protectors of the Shadows. These Elites can be found in all walks of life, functioning as a police force, military, and emergency responders, always ready to defend their people. They are easily recognized by the purple badges they wear, signifying their elite status.

Though the Shadows may be considered one of the 'weaker' races in the galaxy, their resilience and unity under Daine's leadership have made them stronger than ever before. They have adapted to their circumstances, and the bond they share with their planet and its dangers ensures that they remain a force to be reckoned with, no matter what challenges lie ahead.

The Eclipse Festival

The Eclipse Festival is a grand annual event hosted by the Shadows, celebrated in their royal castle as a symbol of their peace alliance with the Lights. This intergalactic event brings together people from all corners of the galaxy, with the royal castle serving as the central hub. The festival is a time of unity, reflection and celebration, where the Shadows and their allies come together to honor the harmony they have forged. It is not only a celebration of peace but also a moment for cultural exchange, where different species share stories, music and traditions from their home worlds.

Traditionally, attendees at the Eclipse Festival dress in black and purple, which are the national colors of the planet. The colors symbolize the Shadows' deep connection to their home planet, with black representing the mysterious, elusive nature of their species, and purple symbolizing the powerful energy that flows through them. These colors are worn with pride, reflecting both the Shadows' identity and the significance of the occasion. 

During the festival, there are various ceremonies, performances and displays of magic, as well as dinner and a Bal. Shadows often participate in traditional dances, showcase their magical abilities and engage in friendly competitions. The event is also an opportunity for Shadows to exchange knowledge with other species and foster relationships across the galaxy. It is a time when the Shadows reaffirm their commitment to peace and the festival serves as a reminder of the alliances that have helped them survive and thrive in the complex galactic community.