Gelum
| 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 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. Their joints are filled with a viscous fluid that allows them to bend at those specific points more easily.
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.
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
What do they believe in religiously, if at all? Are there gods? Do they worship the Nullstar? Fear it?
Technology and Science
Here you guys can expand. If there's a specialty relating to one field or another, include it. Are they especially good at invention? Chemistry? Biology? You can also add a section for literature and artisinal aspects if you would like.
Traditional Clothing and Fashion
Most Gelum moslty wear cottagecore or natureesque 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
The point of this section is to list some fields that this species could specialize in to give people more ideas for their character.
Starships and Space Travel
What does travel look like for this species? What do ships native to their planet look like? Do they travel often? Do they have bustling ports or are they more closed off?
Cultural Quirks and Daily Life
A big trivia section, basically. I'd encourage incorporating animal mannerisms and fun little traits that don't fit anywhere else.
Notable Locations
List important places tied to this species.
Interactions With Other Species
Especially the other species that they share the planet with. You may need to work with the other teams for this. But I'd like to see this section just to foster more player interactions from the get-go. It's easy plot hooks.
Inspiration Images
Add visual references here!
Concept Art
Add actual concept art here, stuff we made!
