Sluiag

The Sluiags are a large, gastropoid species that inhabit the galaxy as one of the founding members of the Hajoka Entente. Known for their complex and diverse biology, these beings have established themselves as both formidable allies and feared adversaries. While they maintain a close and positive relationship with humanity, their reputation among other species is marred by their history of ruthlessness and genetic manipulation.

Biology & Race

General Physiology:

• Gastropoid Form: Sluiags possess a soft, malleable body typical of gastropods, with a large, muscular foot that allows them to move. Their skin color can vary widely, depending on the environment in which they are born, ranging from green to hazel, brown, amber, or grey. Their bodies secrete mucus, which also varies in color (green, hazel, blue, amber, or white) and is crucial for their survival, preventing desiccation and aiding in movement.
• Coquie and Douple: The Sluiags are divided into two primary forms: Coquie, who carry a shell, and Douple, who are shell-less. Coquie are slower but have the advantage of carrying their homes with them and retaining moisture in their shells. Douple are more agile and capable of faster movement, especially on moist ground, but are more vulnerable to dry environments.
• Limbre: Some Sluiags are born with a rare mutation that grants them a pair of arms, known as Limbre, which protrude from either side of their mantles. These arms can be used for manipulation of objects, tools, or in combat.
• Pneumostome: All Sluiags have a pneumostome, a breathing pore located on the left side of their mantle, which allows them to breathe. This organ is vital for their respiratory system and is carefully protected by their body structure.

Reproduction:

• Hermaphroditic Nature: Sluiags are hermaphrodites, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. When mating, they exchange sperm through their mucus, leading to both individuals laying eggs. A month later, each Sluiag lays eight eggs beneath a protective structure called the Leitha.
• Mutations and Genetic Diversity: Due to their advanced understanding of genetics, Sluiags often exhibit a wide range of mutations and variations within their species, such as different skin textures, patterns, and even additional limbs or sensory organs.

Racial Variations:

1. Vénéneque (Toxic Sludge):
   • Traits: Vénéneque Sluiags produce a highly toxic mucus that can be used as a defensive mechanism or in warfare. This toxic substance can corrode most materials and is lethal to many life forms. Vénéneque are often employed in roles requiring environmental defense or as biological weapons.
2. Tranchése (Spiked):
   • Traits: Tranchése Sluiags are covered in hard, sharp spikes that protrude from their skin. These spikes serve as both a defense mechanism and a weapon in close combat. Tranchése are among the most aggressive of the Sluiags, often leading assaults and guarding key positions in warfare.
3. Couvriture (Liquid Resistant):
   • Traits: Couvriture Sluiags have a special layer of skin that is highly resistant to liquid, making them impervious to many forms of chemical attacks and capable of surviving in toxic or corrosive environments. They are often deployed in hazardous conditions where other species would not survive.
4. Plague (Flatteners):
   • Traits: Plague Sluiags have the unique ability to flatten their bodies to a few inches in diameter, allowing them to squeeze through tight spaces and evade capture. This ability is often used for espionage, infiltration, and ambush tactics.

Guitoka (Human/Sluiag Hybrids):

• Genetic Experiments: The Guitoka are a warrior race created through the combination of human and Sluiag DNA, with additional enhancements from other species such as the Bäto-Draig and Godorein. Guitoka possess enhanced physical capabilities, including the ability to regenerate limbs nearly instantly and perform specialized forms of carsius (a type of energy manipulation) through their secreted slime.
• Appearance: Guitoka typically have blue skin, but those with Buroid DNA become pink and exhibit more effeminate features. They are a highly specialized military force within the Teirna association, valued for their versatility and combat prowess.

Culture

War and Perfection:

• Cultural Ideals: Sluiag culture is heavily based on the pursuit of perfection in both body and mind. This concept, known as Gaiul or Ubenschnecken (from the old human Adarian language), represents the ultimate ideal of Sluiag existence: a being of extreme intelligence and physical strength.
• Military Focus: The Sluiags have a deeply ingrained warrior culture, where strength, cunning, and mastery of genetics are highly valued. Their society is structured around preparing for and engaging in warfare, both for defense and expansion.

Society and Governance:

• Hierarchy: Sluiag society is hierarchical, with individuals rising through the ranks based on their genetic modifications, combat abilities, and contributions to the collective knowledge of their species. The most revered members are those who have undergone the most successful genetic enhancements, embodying the ideals of Gaiul.
• Genetic Sanctuaries: Throughout Sluiag-controlled territories, there are genetic sanctuaries where the best minds of the species gather to experiment, innovate, and perfect their genetic makeup. These sanctuaries are highly guarded and considered sacred, as they are the birthplace of many of the Sluiag's most powerful warriors and thinkers.

Relations with Other Species:

• Human-Sluiag Alliance: The Sluiags share a strong bond with humanity, rooted in their mutual interest in genetics and science. This relationship has allowed the Sluiags to rise in prominence within the League, using their human allies to gain influence and power.
• Distrust from Others: Despite their alliance with humanity, the Sluiags are viewed with suspicion and fear by many other species. Their history of genocide and treachery, along with their reputation as "mad scientists," has made them a controversial and often unwelcome presence in many parts of the galaxy.

History

1. Early History:

• Pre-FTL Era: The Sluiags were originally discovered as a pre-FTL species living on a planet rich in genetic diversity. Their natural ability to manipulate Pryacelsius (a form of bio-energy) set them apart from other species, allowing them to develop advanced genetic technologies long before achieving space travel.

2. The Great Betrayal:

• First Partnership: The Sluiags were initially part of an entente under a more technologically advanced species that brought them into the League. However, when this species turned on the Sluiags, they retaliated with a devastating campaign of genocide, ensuring their former partners would never threaten them again. This act secured their freedom but also cemented their reputation as a dangerous and untrustworthy species.

3. Rise of the Hajoka Entente:

• Founding the Entente: After securing their freedom, the Sluiags founded the Hajoka Entente, a coalition of species united under their leadership. The Entente is known for its focus on genetic experimentation and military strength, with the Sluiags at the helm, driving their agenda forward.

4. Alliance with Humanity:

• Human-Sluiag Collaboration: As humanity advanced in genetic sciences, they formed a close alliance with the Sluiags, recognizing their expertise and shared goals. This collaboration has led to significant advancements in both species' understanding of biology and genetics, as well as the creation of the Guitoka warrior race.

5. Modern Conflicts:

• Tensions within the League: Despite their alliance with humanity, the Sluiags continue to face hostility from other species within the League. Their involvement in internal conflicts, often through sabotage and manipulation, has only deepened the distrust others hold towards them.

Trivia

1. Pryacelsius Communication: Sluiags primarily communicate through Pryacelsius, a form of bio-energy that allows them to transmit thoughts, emotions, and even complex information over distances. This ability is unique to their species and is often used in both diplomacy and warfare.
2. Mucus as a Weapon: The toxic mucus produced by the Vénéneque Sluiags is so potent that it has been banned as a weapon in many parts of the galaxy. Despite this, it remains a key component of the Sluiag military arsenal, often used in covert operations.
3. Shell Art: Coquie Sluiags often decorate their shells with intricate carvings and inlays, turning them into both a protective home and a personal expression of identity. These shells are passed down through generations, becoming family heirlooms.
4. Desiccation Risk: Due to their reliance on moisture, Sluiags are highly vulnerable to arid environments. To combat this, they have developed specialized suits that maintain humidity levels, allowing them to operate in dry climates for limited periods.
5. Genetic Prophets: Some Sluiags are believed to possess the ability to foresee genetic outcomes, earning them the title of "Genetic Prophets." These individuals play a crucial role in guiding the species' genetic experiments and are highly revered in Sluiag society.
6. Symbiotic Relationships: Sluiags have developed symbiotic relationships with several other species, including the Guitoka, whom they created through genetic engineering. These relationships are often based on mutual benefit, with the Sluiags providing protection and genetic enhancement in exchange for loyalty and service.
7. Battle Hymns: Before going into battle, Sluiag warriors chant ancient hymns that are believed to strengthen their resolve and enhance their Pryacelsius abilities. These hymns are passed down through generations and are considered a vital part of their military tradition.