Ayal
The Ayal (also Hargaliin or Ayel) are a non-human hybrid species — a cross between the Taal and Laan humanoid races — from the third planet of the Hargaliat system (Kepler-37) in the Lyra zone, a world terraformed by Laan colonists from barren planetoid stock. The Taal and Laan are naturally genetically compatible, and the Ayal emerged as a stable hybrid lineage from that cross. Retaining slight feline Laan features with more humanoid proportions overall, they have abundant hair of varying colour and texture, humanoid facial proportions, and nose and eyes carrying the recognisable Laan signature.
Hargaliat system
The Hargaliat system contains three bodies, of which two are sterile planetoids. The third, terraformed by Laan colonists to support life, became the Ayal homeworld — an example of the Laan's mastery of genetics and planetary engineering applied to their own expansion across the Lyra zone. The Laan — described as "true masters in genetics" — spread very widely throughout the galaxy and adapted their physiology to new environments; the Ayal represent one stable fruit of this expansive cross-pollination in the Lyra zone.
Earth involvement
The Ayal visited Terra a very long time ago, playing a role alongside the Laani in colonising parts of the Middle East and North Africa, before withdrawing when war with the Draco reptilians erupted; they have not returned since, though they are involved in the Galactic Council. The ancient Terran presence of the Ayal — alongside the Laani — in the Middle East and North Africa may connect to cultural and mythological traditions of that region associated with feline-featured humanoid visitors, though the Ayal have not sought to renew this contact.