The Yagai (a single one is called a Yaga) were sentient insectoids that originated on Yaga Minor. This species was among the many who suffered enslavement and exploitation at the hands of the Galactic Empire.
The Yagai belonged to the insectoid species. They moved on three powerful legs arranged in a tripod configuration, with the third leg positioned at the rear. They possessed two arms, each terminating in a hand featuring nine independently movable digits. Typically, the Yagai were characterized by their height and slender build, featuring a lengthy torso, delicate fingers, and an elongated, slender neck. Their numerous digits provided them with exceptional dexterity, making them highly proficient in intricate mechanical and technical tasks.
Following their subjugation by the Galactic Empire, a genetically engineered subspecies known as Yaga drones was developed. These drones surpassed even the standard Yaga in size and were remarkably muscular. They had thick, robust armor and moved at a slow pace. Their purpose was to endure the harsh conditions of deep space, an environment the Yagai could not withstand. They exhibited limited intelligence and rarely spoke, except to acknowledge orders. Once fully developed, these drones required only solar energy for sustenance.
Yagai society placed great emphasis on technical and mechanical skills and accomplishments. They demonstrated exceptional talent in the field of hyperdrive technology. Older Yagai strongly encouraged younger individuals to pursue careers in technical domains, fearing the consequences if the Empire deemed the Yagai expendable. While inherently aggressive and territorial, they possessed the rationality to submit to the overwhelming power of the Empire. Some believed they could become a valuable asset to the Alliance to Restore the Republic.
Fully cognizant of the Empire's widespread atrocities, the Yagai were determined to avoid a similar fate. Consequently, despite their deep resentment of Imperial control—and the transformation into Yagai drones—they primarily focused on opportunities for sabotage. With the entire population of Yaga Minor essentially held as hostages, the Yagai fully yielded to Imperial authority. Certain Imperials, such as High General Hestiv, mistakenly interpreted this submission as loyalty to the Empire.
The Yagai preferred loose-fitting, flowing attire, such as jumpsuits. Their clothing typically featured white or shades of blue or purple, which were considered neutral colors on their home planet. They are known for their fondness for a spicy dish known as Dindra.
Due to the enslavement of their species and the blockade of their system, encountering free Yagai in the galaxy was a rare occurrence. Those encountered away from their homeworld were either escaped slaves, living in fear of recapture, or slaves forced to serve Imperial masters in remote regions of the galaxy. Yagai drones underwent indoctrination from birth, compelling them to unquestioningly obey the commands of their Imperial superiors. The majority of Yagai considered the drones to be devoid of citizenship.
During the era of the Galactic Republic, the Yagai were highly regarded for their expertise in starship engineering and their collaborative spirit within the galactic community. However, with the rise of the Empire, they were swiftly subjugated and enslaved. The Empire established a major Imperial shipyard above Yaga Minor and dispatched Yagai technicians throughout the galaxy to assist in the maintenance of the vast Imperial Fleet.
During the time of the Imperial Remnant, slavery was outlawed, and the relationship between the Yagai and the Empire improved significantly, due to the tolerant policies of Admiral Pellaeon.