The Capture
The destruction of a ship that set the stage for Earth's invasion.
In the expanded lore of the Animorphs universe, the backstory often referred to as 'The Capture' involves the crash-landing and destruction of an unnamed Andalite ship, which stranded Elfangor on Earth. However, this was not a fleet-wide battle commanded by Visser Three—the Yeerk Empire's initial invasion of Earth was spearheaded by later commanders. Visser Three's leadership of the Earth invasion occurred later in the timeline, and he did not command the forces at that battle.
- Key Figures
- Elfangor, Alloran-Semitur-Corrass
- Affiliation
- Andalite Resistance vs. Yeerk Empire
- Timeline Placement
- ~30 years before the main series (Backstory)
- Status
- Completed Historical Event
- Significance
- Origin of Elfangor's exile on Earth
Lore & Background
Elfangor's survival after the ship's crash led him to Earth, where he remained in his natural Andalite form, provided the morphing cubes to the future Animorphs, and fathered Tobias. His death shortly after delivering his warning to the Animorphs cemented the stakes of the conflict. The Yeerks used captured Andalite technology to bolster their invasion force, but the war between Andalites and Yeerks had been raging for decades before this event.
In Their Own Story
The stars burned cold as the Andalite cruiser drifted silently in the void. Visser One's shadow loomed large across the hull, a parasite claiming its prize. Elfangor clutched his morphing gel, knowing escape was impossible for most. Yet, one life remained to carry the truth home.
Reader's Guide
The timeline begins with the Yeerk ambush on the Andalite fleet deep in space. Visser One's forces overwhelm the defenders, capturing ships and soldiers alike. Elfangor manages to break away from the engagement, carrying vital intelligence about the Yeerk invasion plans. He travels to Earth, hoping to warn the local population before it is too late. However, he is discovered by the Yeerks shortly after landing. His sacrifice allows him to pass his knowledge and morphing technology to a group of human children. This backstory arc sets the stage for the main series, explaining why the Yeerks are on Earth and how the Animorphs gained their abilities. The capture of the fleet ensures the Yeerks have the resources needed for their long-term occupation strategy.
Did You Know?
- Elfangor was an Andalite warrior who died protecting his secret mission to Earth, primarily in his natural Andalite form.
- Visser Three did not command the forces at the battle involving Elfangor's ship; his leadership of the Earth invasion occurred later in the timeline.
- The Andalite ship involved is never given a canonical name in the original books, so 'Galaxy Tree' is a fan invention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What event is known as The Capture?
It refers to the Yeerk seizure of the Andalite ship GalaxyTree, which left Elfangor stranded on Earth. This incident occurred roughly thirty to forty years before the main series began.
Who commanded the Yeerk forces during this timeline?
Visser Three, formerly Alloran-Semitur-Corrass, led the initial invasion of Earth following this event. Although Visser One assisted with infiltration, he did not command a major fleet battle here.
Why is Elfangor significant to The Capture?
The loss of his vessel during the seizure forced Elfangor into exile on our planet. His survival established the origin point for the Andalite Resistance's connection to Earth.
When does this story arc take place in the timeline?
This is a completed historical event set decades prior to the main Animorphs storyline. It serves as backstory explaining how Elfangor arrived on Earth.
What impact did The Capture have on the war?
The loss of the ship set the stage for the Yeerk Empire's broader invasion of Earth. It marked a pivotal moment where Andalite forces were pushed back while Yeerks gained a foothold.
More in Story Arcs & Timeline
Elsewhere in the Animorphs universe
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