Theme: Manipulators and Opportunists

Gameplay:

The Ven-Shee are a sentient fungus that constantly manipulate other species they come into contact with to ensure the continued survival of their fungi. They evolved on a tropical world and, early on, developed a symbiotic relationship with a very dangerous insect lifeform known as the Ven. Ven lived in small hives, and where highly territorial. Over centuries the Shee created a symbiotic relationship with the Ven, allowing the Ven to inhabit their outer skin, and gained the protection that they provided in fending off attacks. This relationship continues, and today the two parties are so intertwined that they call themselves the Ven-Shee. 

Ven-Shee manipulate everything they encounter to gain advantage and are very good at creating partnerships, business deals and agreements that seem favorable to both sides, but somehow lead to additional benefits and profits for their species. This makes them excellent negotiators and smugglers. 

The live in communal packs that compete for power and influence within their domains of influence - each sending representatives to their governing Council. The Council is made up of the most cunning Ven-Shee manipulators, and they are ruthless and efficient in ensuring that their way of life is maintained and that the art of manipulation is passed from one generation to another. 

Other species turn to them when they need to sway other parties or to get an advantage in dealings (legal or illegal), and accept that the Ven-Shee will also prosper at their expense. As a species they get a bonus to wealth acquisition and influence when dealing with other factions.

LOL - just my luck, this contest ended and the winner already announced. Maybe the next go round.