The Backstory:

The Vitaem are sentient plant-life that seek to bring enlightenment to a troubled galaxy. Their civilisation evolved peacefully on their homeworld, gradually spreading over it, with communicating thoughts and idea to each other through the spores they naturally released, while peacefully living off the radiation from their home star.  In time culture and science developed, however it would be contact with other advanced species that truly defined them. When the first space-faring races landed on their world, they found that they communicate with these aliens via the thoughts and intentions contained within their spores. With their new friends help, trade blossomed and the Vitaem soon had space travel of their own. Expansion however, had the price of exposure to some less friendly denizens of the galaxy. However upon aggressive contact they discovered that they could use their natural spores to gradually placate those who wished them harm, turning mortal enemies into stout allies. Now seeing their way of communicating as a gift, the Vitaem see themselves as the one race who can bring a true and lasting peace to the galaxy.

Victory intention: Diplomatic

Traits:

The Vitaem have no interest in war and will therefore not voluntarily start one.

Through the use of their spores they also find it easier to befriend minor factions.

Closer proximity and contact with other major powers will also increase diplomatic pressure, as they turn foes into friends.

Due to their plant-like nature, a strong tie to food would also suit, though not too sure what route to go there.

So yeah, pacifist plants (kinda see them as a cross between Triffids and Flood from Halo, though not as terrifying as that sounds!) who gradually turn foes to friends. Just the basis of an idea, so let me know what you think! Just thought I'd have a go at this contest malarkey!

Thsin