Hapan

Hapans are actually humans, although with a distinctive genetic and cultural history. They originated in the Hapes Cluster over 4,000 years before the Battle of Yavin, when the Lorell Raiders, a group of pirates, found a few safe routes through the dangerous Transitory Mists that surround the Cluster and settled there. They had abducted a large number of the galaxy's most beautiful women (presumably, men as well), and this created the initial bias in their genes. They have been isolated from the rest of the galaxy since before 3,000 BBY.

Physiological Traits
Hapans are extraordinarily beautiful by human standards. On account of the extremely bright sunlight of their region of space, which provides perpetual and strong daylight, they have virtually lost their ability to see in the dark, and are nearly blind in even dim lighting.

Society and Politics
On account of this small empire's isolation, Hapan culture has evolved independent of most of the galaxy. It is matriarchal, ever since a group of (mostly male) Hapan pirates went out raiding and were decimated by the Jedi. Also due to its isolation, most Hapans speak the Hapan language, and Basic is not commonly known.

Hapans have a deep love of nature. They appreciate flowers, in particular roses. A great deal of energy is spent maintaining forests, gardens, and other preserves of nature. Caretakers of such preserves are accorded a great deal of respect, second only to those who serve the military.

Hapan culture is honor-bound and proud, with a cultural institution of sacred vows. (This is not unlike the culture of the Wookiees, among others.) Military positions, as well as appointments in the service of the royal house, are highly esteemed. Although their region is unified under the Hapes Consortium, they maintain a sizable military to defend against any intruders who make it through the Transitory Mists. They are known to be ruthless with invaders, usually killing them all.