Prologue
For centuries we have lived here; we have breathed in the toxic air, drank from the poisoned streams, and yet, we are still here. We have evolved, adapted to our harsh, but beautiful, planet. None could ever live here, should never live here, but we do. This is our home, our way of life. The lava rivers carved out our towns, the thick, yellow atmosphere protects us from prying and unwanted eyes. Once, we were almost discovered, that is a mistake we will never make again.
We fight for our survival everyday for we are not alone. Creatures, inconceivable to your minds, prowl through our towns, killing all they see. Life exists on this barren landscape, but She has learned to protect us. We wish to be known to Earth but She doesn't want us to be found in fear of what they may do to us. None know that we are here, but life finds its own way.
We are not aliens, far from it. We don't have antennas or large black eyes. Our skin is not grey or covered in green slime. You would recognize us if you saw us even though we live millions of miles away. We are the evolved human race, and this is Venus, goddess of beauty and our home.