Humans, often referred to by the scientific name H. sapiens terra, were a species distinguished by their highly developed brains, capable of abstract reasoning, language, introspection, and problem-solving. This intellectual capability, combined with an upright stance, opposable thumbs, and the capacity to modify and use the environment to create tools and technology, allowed humans to dominate the planet Earth for millennia.
Humans evolved on Earth from a lineage of bipedal primates known as hominids, similar to how Tallisites evolved on Tallis. Their origin is commonly attributed to precursor comet PC-3, which is believed to have crashed into Earth. Their evolutionary path was marked by significant milestones, including the development of tool use, fire, and clothing, which aided their expansion into diverse environments across the globe. Over time, humans formed complex social structures, developed agriculture, and established civilisations with intricate cultures, religions, and governance systems.
Human societies were remarkably diverse, ranging from nomadic hunter-gatherers to advanced civilisations with sophisticated cities and technology. They created art, music, literature, and other forms of expression that reflected their understanding of the world, their beliefs, and their emotions. Over centuries, humans devised various systems of governance, from tribal leaderships to democratic states and empires, showcasing their capacity for cooperation, conflict, and innovation.
The species' relentless pursuit of knowledge and improvement led to significant technological advancements that reshaped their world. From the invention of the wheel and the plow to the development of writing, mathematics, and sciences, human technology accelerated, especially in the last few centuries of their existence. The industrial and digital revolutions marked the zenith of human ingenuity, dramatically altering their environment, societies, and even themselves.
Humans had an unparalleled impact on Earth, significantly altering the planet's atmosphere, landscapes, and biological diversity. Their activities contributed to climate change, pollution, and the mass extinction of many other species. While humans strived to mitigate their negative impacts through environmental conservation and sustainable practices, these efforts were ultimately insufficient to counteract the broader trends of degradation.
The extinction of humans in 2119, catalysed by the Death of Earth, closed the chapter on a species whose legacy was as remarkable for its achievements as it was for its failures. The collapse of the ozone layer and the subsequent loss of Earth's atmosphere rendered their home planet uninhabitable, leading to their demise. In a final act, surviving humans established the Archive of Human Knowledge on Mars, hoping to preserve the essence of their civilization and its accomplishments.
The discovery of the near-identical genome between humans and the Tallisites sparked a controversial yet groundbreaking field of scientific research aimed at cloning humans using the genetic material preserved within the Martian Archive. Despite numerous failed attempts that underscored the complex ethical and technical hurdles of such endeavors, a significant breakthrough occurred with the birth of Lutèce Nehalem. Lutèce was the result of an illicit experiment conducted by Tallisite scientist Tula Nehalem, who managed to carry the human clone to term, marking the first and only successful attempt at human cloning.
Lutèce's existence posed profound questions about identity, legality, and the moral ramifications of reviving an extinct species. Tragically, her life was cut short at the age of 14 under mysterious circumstances, with her final whereabouts presumed to be Earth. The loss of Lutece and the absence of her remains added layers of complexity to the debate over human cloning, leaving a poignant reminder of the ethical boundaries of scientific exploration. Her brief life illuminated the potential for interspecies connection and the resurrection of lost beings, while also highlighting the need for careful consideration of the consequences of such scientific pursuits