Vorlon Empire

Formation and Early Years

Ancient Origins and Early Development

• The Vorlons are one of the oldest and most enigmatic civilizations in the galaxy, originating from their homeworld, Vorlon Prime.
• They achieved unparalleled advancements in technology, biology, and philosophy, developing into a highly evolved and secretive race.
• The Vorlons cultivated an air of mysticism, presenting themselves as near-divine beings to younger races, reinforcing their authority through manipulation and control.

The Shadow Wars

First Shadow War (Approx. 10,000 years ago)

• The Vorlons were instrumental in the First Shadow War, an ancient conflict against the Shadows, their ideological and military rivals.
• They positioned themselves as defenders of order, rallying younger races against the Shadows’ philosophy of chaos and evolution through conflict.
• This war set the foundation for the ongoing cycle of conflict between the Vorlons and Shadows throughout galactic history.

Second Shadow War (2245 – 2261)

• The longstanding conflict between the Vorlons and the Shadows erupted once more, culminating in the Second Shadow War.
• Unlike previous conflicts, the Vorlons took an active and direct role, influencing and even controlling younger races to oppose the Shadows.
• Their tactics became increasingly ruthless, wiping out entire worlds tainted by Shadow influence.
• The war escalated into a devastating confrontation until Sheridan and the Army of Light forced both the Vorlons and Shadows to abandon their manipulation of younger civilizations.

Philosophy and Influence

Impact on Younger Races

• The Vorlons enforced their philosophy of order and obedience, often influencing younger species through cryptic guidance, genetic tampering, and psychological conditioning.
• Their centuries-long interference shaped civilizations, fostering the belief that the Vorlons were divine or celestial beings.
• The influence of Vorlons was particularly evident in the Minbari, who revered them as near-gods.

Departure from Known Space

The End of an Era

• After their final confrontation in 2261, the Vorlons and Shadows were confronted with the truth of their destructive cycle.
• With their time of influence over, the Vorlons, alongside the Shadows, departed beyond the Rim, leaving younger races to forge their own destinies.
• Their departure marked a new era for the galaxy, where species could evolve without the manipulation of ancient forces.