The Mēness are a race of bipedal humanoid lepidopterans specifically resembling the domestic silk moth of Terra, which is now extinct. They have many similar anatomical features to their Earthly counterparts, such as familiar compound eyes, unipectinate or bipectinate threats on the top of their heads, and wings that cannot carry their heavy bodies, instead becoming a thing of fashion.
Mēness can come in many colors, such as brown, black, white, gold-ish, or yellow. The same factor applies to wings, leading to an almost countless number of unique patterns depending on the genes. Some genes lead to some quite stunning patterns, so much so that male/female Mēness use their wings to attract partners. They have digitigrade legs, though they are rather shorter and thicker than compared to other beings of similar anatomy.
Mēness religion is based on Cerība, the largest moon of their home planet, and her twenty-seven smaller sisters. The Mēness people believe that the moons are truly goddesses who cocooned themselves to protect them, and in turn, they worship the moons and hold a festival every May 15th, though they use a different calendar based on the positions of the moons throughout the night, with each full rotation being a complete "Cycle." The Mēness attend rituals at holy sites that resemble monoliths with elaborate and complex designs that are meant to symbolize the goddesses. Priest-like figures lead these rituals, reciting scripture and guiding the attendees through said ritual.
It is fairly common to see Mēness with markings on their fur of different colors. These markings are made from Tintae, an ink-like substance that sticks to the fur of the Mēness. Markings are usually seen as a religious sign, showing that the individual is loyal to the goddesses and to an extent, can be a trusted person. Markings themselves are usually created by a religious figure known as a Sanatçla, which in a sense, is similar to a tattoo artist. Albeit, heavily glorified.
Mēness society is mildly similar to a monarchy, with a family holding all the power and making important decisions. However, there are also hints of communism, such as how the state controls the means of production and distribution to the people. Mēness are usually VERY social, similar to the Avali, where they literally need another individual to speak to if they wish to retain sanity and faith. Mēness usually live tightly close together and constantly interact with one another for whatever reason, be it for a favor, basic social interaction, or bonding.
Mēness architecture is comparable to fantastical depictions of elf towns, living alongside nature in harmony, creating beautiful alien scenery seen nowhere else. Once night fast approaches, the vast ocean of stars becomes apparent, brightening the dark sky with their warm embrace. At a certain point in the night, you can witness all twenty-eight moons in the night sky, the cosmos providing a splendid backdrop to an already wonderful sky.
Of course, with the Mēness being a peaceful people, they cannot fight for SHIT. Most of them, at least. There is practically no military, only specific individuals who grew tired of the status quo and decided to train themselves for combat... for whatever reason. These are the same Mēness who were interested in the Ashigaru program and joined Phalanx Co. (morally ambiguous mercenary company :( )
The Mēness do have a history of encounters with foreign life, specifically with humans. Upon first friendly contact with Federation diplomats who arrived on their home planet, they greeted them with gifts and introduced them to their practices. Not a month later, their world came under the occupation of the Federation. Surprisingly, it wasn't that bad for both sides. With little to no meddling from the Federation's side, it led to little to no displeasure from the Mēness side. However, it wasn't without a few incidents.
This would be nothing compared to UCoM, which attempted to "conquer" the Mēness, only causing the Federation to respond by occupying the planet AGAIN. Of course, this kinda sucks for everybody because this would be like the U.S. and Soviet Russia occupying Cuba.
Both leave without further confrontation, leaving the moths to themselves. (mostly)