Shaper

The Shapers are a race of shapeshifters from the hidden world of Solace in the Shaper Universe.

Physiology
Being a race of shapeshifters it is difficult to determine their original form. Shapers can take on many forms to suit their needs. They are a dioecious species, with the parents being able to pass on their genetic forms they acquired, allowing their young to possess a biological library at birth. Shapers don't just mimic the appearances of other species, but can mimic their biochemistry, and even reduce their size at will. Though its not recommended in sliding (their word for shapeshifting) into a small form, as their is a risk of being stuck. Young Shapers abilities can lie in dormant under artificial means, but can be reintroduced using a special injection. They have incredible life spans reaching to five millennia.

History
The Shapers have always been regarded as myths by the various civilizations of the galaxy. However the Shapers were ruthlessly hunted by the Caliphate at the orders of its insane leader Cal Victus, who was given a prophecy by his father that he would be killed by a Shaper. The prophecy was false as his father wished to distract his son from a far greater worse future as a dictator. However the old ruler's prophecy condemned an entire species to persecution and death.

Culture
Due to their persecution by the Caliphate, the Shapers have isolated themselves in relative safety of the homeworld. Those that travel beyond the safe confines to explore the larger universe usually adopt the forms and cultures of the species they mimic and take on a vow of silence to prevent their sanctuary from being discover even under the threat of death. Due to their long life-spans, the Shapers pride themselves of being patient, waiting for the right moment to strike back at their persecutors. They value team work amongst themselves to coordinate their attacks