Gelum

Gelum

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Information
Homeworld	Singulon
Habitats	Deserts and rocky plains, maintained facilities
Unique Traits	Gelatinous bodies
Writer(s)	Jonathan, Sara, Kareena, and Chardybis

"Optional species quote or defining cultural phrase." — Someone from this species

Once comprised of more conventional beings, generations of intense arcane experimentation and prolonged exposure to unstable energies reshaped the Gelum into fluid, slime-based entities, their bodies no longer bound to fixed structures, although most retain humanoid shapes and floating bones and organs within. This provides the Gelum with extraordinary adaptability and a unique relationship with magic, but at the cost of physical stability. To survive, many Gelum rely on external frameworks, whether mechanical or arcane, to maintain cohesion in environments not attuned to their altered state. This can be something as simple as wearing arcane supports. Many are semi-transparent, but some are known to be opaque. Native to the inner reaches of Singulon, they are the architects behind one of the most audacious feats in known space: the creation and containment of an artificial singularity, which they harness as both a power source and a focus for advanced magical study. Among other species, the Gelum are often regarded with a mix of awe and unease. They embody both the potential and the danger of pushing beyond natural limits, living proof that mastery over reality can unmake one’s self just as easily as it can elevate it.

Core Worldview

What is this species' outlook on the world? What is their main mentality?

Physiology and Design

Gelum have a very unique biology. They appear to have a somewhat normal organ structure, though some, like lungs, are vestigial. and they have extremely thick yet flexible skin. They can expand at will and lose most of their rigid structure. They don't have traditional muscles, but have nearly invisible tendons that connect to small rigid organs in their “joints.” Gelum are composed of a gelatinous substance, dense enough to hold organs without a skeletal structure in certain atmospheres. Their artificial singularity has slowly been warping them to favor more high pressure conditions. Their joints are filled with a viscous fluid that allows them to bend at those specific points more easily.

Magic

Their organs are very similarly composed to that of the common Aurelian, aside from a spiky organ attached to their heart called the Aursin. This organ allows them to accumulate magical energy from the surrounding area and their own bodies to expel as spells. This does not mean Gelum are naturally gifted at magic though and they have to work said organ in order for it to be usable. They have the same magic capabilities as other species and do not have any particular advantage with this innate ability provided other than a slightly easier time initially accessing their magic.

Social Structures and Community

Gelum are very dependent on each other, and rely on their community. Their government/economic structure, or lack thereof is fairly laissez-faire. Though this government structure has evolved into a pseudo-communist structure which has the resulting dependence that is present currently. They form small communities, attune to villages, and they tend to trade between said villages. In times of trouble or conflict councils are formed with representatives from each of the villagers involved to attempt to resolve things diplomatically as life is hard enough without conflicts to make things worse.

Government

Within these communities a wide range of different government structures are used however in most them tends to be anywhere from 1-5 elected officials from the elders of academics of the community who act as representatives in inter-community councils and leaders for community meetings where decisions are made. While currency is used, in many communities trade is conducted more through a system of ongoing favors and partnerships with a general purpose of ensuring everyone in the community has what they need and is providing for others acting under the philosophy that it all roughly balanced out so no need to stress over exact currency transactions. In inter-community or inter-species transactions this is where currency tends to be used more often and Gelum are much more careful to make sure their goods and services are properly paid for.

If a member of a community is deemed to be a problem or unfit to be part of the community they are cast out and either must beg for another community to accept them or try to live in the wildnesses alone which is a dangerous prospect. There are some Gelum who have managed very successful lives as outcasts but due to their very community based culture most would find such a life to be torture.

Religion and Spirituality

Gelums are devoid of a common religion. Some are very spirtual though and believe in the power of souls and their linkage to magic as well as each other. They believe in the afterlife, and that the soul is released after death into a common sphere and reincarnation is optional. They believe in the power of free will over destiny due to their very free-spirited nature.

Technology and Science

Most Gelum are interested in the concept of progression and technological advancements. For those who participate in research, they are well regarded and tend to help advance the societal development for Gelum as a whole. Those who do participate are primarily tasked with the instability of Gelum physiology and finding technological and magical solutions to make up for such issues.

Traditional Clothing and Fashion

Gelum mostly wear cottage core or nature esque outfits taking inspiration from all aspects of the natural world including plants, animals, space, landscapes, etc. Some adorn themselves with their natural environment as well with flowers and vines. Gelum clothes are varied as while Gelum are majority community-based, they choose to express their individuality in clothing.

Occupations

Gelum live simple lifestyles, picking up occupations that fit the niches needed by their village. Typically occupations include: farmer, researcher/scientist, hunter, technician, etc. Some are not employed but contribute in other ways and assist their family within their careers, everybody contributes.

Starships and Space Travel

Gelum don't typically travel off their planetary body not due to the lack of research in interplanetary travel, but a lack of interest or need to. Those who have traveled off the planet have to have some roundabout way to get off the planet, either being a researcher themselves, having connections, sneaking aboard a ship, etc.

Cultural Quirks and Daily Life

Gelum are typically used to metalworking due to the abundance within the planet and the usage within most structures. They use a very post-modern, near futuristic architecture. Gelum tend to have a immense dedication to their career and enjoy their busy lives.

Notable Locations

List important places tied to this species.

Interactions With Other Species

As Gelum typically don't travel off their planetary body much, most only have interacted with Ferrans and other Gelum on Singulon. Most are indifferent to the Ferrans due to the lack of interaction between the species, especially its lower class, and the carefree nature of Gelum causing a lack of interest in interaction.

Inspiration Images

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Concept Art

A mockup of the anatomical structure of Gelum, created by Sara.