Zar'Kuun

BEAST of GOR
The Kurii (singular: Kur) are the primary antagonistic alien species in John Norman's Gor novels, serving as the arch-enemies of the Priest-Kings. Introduced as savage, beast-like invaders, they represent a constant threat to Gor (Counter-Earth) and, by extension, Earth itself. Unlike the detached, insectoid Priest-Kings who seek to preserve and observe humanity, the Kurii are aggressive conquerors driven by survival instincts and a desire for dominance. They operate from hidden bases in the solar system's asteroid belt (the "Steel Worlds"), plotting to overthrow the Priest-Kings and claim Gor as a staging ground for invading Earth. Their presence adds a layer of interstellar conflict to the series, blending sword-and-planet adventure with science fiction elements like advanced weaponry and spacecraft.