#sedahian

[quinnred]

Trying to update an oooold spec-evo alien to be more visually interesting and emotive.

Grothia are the sentient race of the ash clouded world Sedah. Due to being amongst the dietary group of Tefravores (animals who inhale the high organic ash of Sedah, usually through pores on the back hunch) the mouth has fused shut. Only special tissue exist there that act as smell receptors.

A transparent shell membrane covers the head like a helmet, protecting the eyes from debris.

[quinnred]

Sedahians, the only known sentient species of the harsh ash smothered world of Sedah. They are tefravores, inhaling ash through special pores on their shell hunch, and filtering organic matter from the mineral matter for digestion. This is a common dietary method on Sedah. Sedahian anatomy is odd, with nearly all organs contained within the dense upper body. Their skin has high iron concentration, organized by cells to create a natural armor. The head is holds the mineral layered eyes, hidden ears, along with smell and magnetic sensory organs and a brain like nerve cluster. The true brain is contained within the hunch. The head will retract into the hunch during combat. Sedahian torsos are similar to an owl's neck, able to turn at extreme angles to watch for predators. Just below the rib cage are the reproductive organs, which can play both roles of womb and phallus. Due to the difficulties of caring for offspring, day long fist fights can take place to decide who will bare the burden. Sedahian arms are built especially for punching, delivering enough force to kill a human being in a single punch. This punch, alongside their tough iron skin, is necessary to defend against the super predators of Sedah, or simply against eachother. That coupled with great mobility and stability make Sedahians impressive combatants, which is often shown through tribal conflicts. The recent developments of weapons and armor made by animal hide and forging has made things even deadlier. The most powerful of Sedahians are the Rust Lords, older and experienced Sedahians who's rusting skin and sprouting rust spines define them as wise and strong. They will command their tribes with deep grunt, whistle, clap, and pheromone, giving boon to their warriors. They will fight over precious territory such as vapor springs for hydration and vacant calm land for settlement.

@mrdingle @spaghettibastard @speculative-evolution  @extra-vertebrae