Unctuous. Grumpy. Vaguely annoying. Notoriously snippy. These are just some of the terms used to describe the Hylotl, our three-eyed acquaintances from the ocean deep. In my travels, I've spoken to a great many sentient beings, and quite a few of them have complained to me about getting stuck in Hylotl bureaucracy or being unable to understand a Hylotl's reaction to something.

This begs the question: what's the deal with the Hylotl? Let's dive into their past and take a look.

We all know that the racial enmity between the Florans and Hylotl has existed for hundreds (if not thousands) of years. Bitter wars were fought with primitive weaponry, and legends from that time speak of great suffering amongst the peoples of both races. One Hylotl piece from that age in particular gives us an insight into their attitudes towards Florans:

The poem above is an excerpt of a compilation of recovered art from the era called "Water and Blood: The Floran-Hylotl War" and compiled by the xenanthropologist Angie Kurov. It's obvious from this that the savageries committed by the Florans had a deep-reaching impact on the general Hylotl psyche - mention Florans in front of a Hylotl and they'll visibly twitch. Hylotl are brought up to fear and hate Florans, so it's unsurprising to see how they react.

Importantly, though, the above point does not take into account that the Hylotl also committed atrocities upon the Florans during the war. Here's a little-known fact: the Hylotl were the first race to develop weed killer. Does this absolve the Florans of their crimes? Of course not, but it's important to understand that neither side is blameless in their centuries-old rivalry. The Hylotl have simply built up their defenses in a different manner to the Florans, using bureaucracy to block them out instead of weapons (usually - a warship blockade still sends a powerful message).

This still doesn't explain why the Hylotl act so snippy to everyone else. Perhaps they're afraid of history repeating itself, or perhaps the relatively recent advent of interstellar flight capabilities across the known sentient races hasn't given them ample time to come out of their shells. One tiny whisper I picked up in a seedy Hylotl bar tells me otherwise, though. A hooded Hylotl who refused to identify themself told me that a storm was on the horizon. Something big. Does this mean that the Hylotl are hiding something? My gut instinct points me towards a yes, but I guess we'll have to wait and find out.

Our correspondent Charlton McVicar spent a month on assignment investigating the potentially Agaran-related loss of Avian ship The Restless Sparrow. Here's his report, delivered in an interactive format, exclusive to the Starbound Chronicle...

The boarding party consisted of four Avians, hand-picked by the captain. None carried weapons, correctly assuming that the lack of challenge boarding meant that no guards were posted within. The crew first went to the main crypt, collecting artifacts, then began scouring auxiliary rooms. It was in one of these that they made a fortuitous discovery: the still-fresh body of a Sunborn in full ceremonial regalia.

Human (Mar 21 - May 20)

You're feeling aggressive; could have something to do with your homeworld being destroyed. Alternatively, you're annoyed that the cute little guy you met on Beta Gamma Auraxis VI tried to snack on your foot. Keep calm and keep your feet where you can see them.

Lucky Numbers: 1, 12, 19, 26

Apex (May 21 - July 22)

Today is a perfect day to obey Big Ape. You may be feeling a bit rebellious, but just remember that Big Ape will keep you safe. Try something new today.

Lucky Numbers: 6, 28, 496

Avian (July 23 - Sep 22)

You're feeling anxious today. Start the morning off by attending the daily sacrifice, then try to mop up some of the blood to take home and spread it on your shoulders so that you may sprout wings and become one with the Aether.

Lucky numbers: 14, 36, 57, 99

Floran (Sep 23 - Nov 21)

Today is good day for ssstab. You feel hungry. Always hungry. Deliciousss food out in space. Find with hunting ssskills. Ssstab with favorite dagger. Eat with face.

Lucky Numbers: amount of meatsss you eat today.

Glitch (Nov 22 - Jan 19)

Mystical. Your day is going to be a trove of wonderful feelings and occurences. Suggestion. Try going in for a tune-up at your local blacksmith. Compliment. Because you're worth it today.

List. Lucky Numbers: 3, 6, 9, 13

Hylotl (Jan 20 - Mar 20)

Today, you may find that you identify strongly with the image of a lone plastic bag blowing in the wind. You may also find yourself feeling that astrology is a waste of time. It's ok. You're probably right.

Lucky numbers: Bah, forget it.

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