genuinely I did not think anyone was going to be interested but @jesuswarriordaughter has kindly enabled me and also made me realize the scope of my own insanity as I genuinely contemplated actually making this post. I will start with the really easy stuff. Ahem, anyway.
The Togruta Post
(non-comprehensive)
First of all, all of these thoughts exist because of the extensive research I did when I decided I wanted to create a Togruta character. I am not beating the ‘your trademark is detail’ accusations any time soon. Anyway. Starting with the basics of Togruta sexual dimorphism. Togruta men versus women actually have very distinct montral shapes, though the only two prominent representatives of the species we see in the clone wars/more widespread star wars media (Ashoka and Shaak Ti) are female and most people are probably not crazy enough to do the level of digging I am prone to and therefore don’t realize there is a difference. It’s pretty straightforward though: Togruta women have montrals that go backwards and out. Men have montrals that go forward and in. Behold, examples:
(Above, top image sourced from Tales of the Jedi S1 E1, lower image from a youtube video of that bit from the clone wars where Ahsoka recounts being found by Plo Koon because I just wasn’t gonna track down the whole episode)(below image sourced from Wookiepedia and seems to be in the clone-wars style)
Apologies for the neon, the source images were very dark (I had to do some photo editing on the TotJ image) nor were they quality in general, and I wanted to try and be sure the colors read distinctly. In any case, you can see that there are very distinct silhouettes in the TotJ episode. It’s much harder to see in the clone wars screenshot and the different art style also impacts things, but if you look closely you can see the shapes are there as well. I tried to sketch out the basic sort of shape on my own, and yes I know those silhouettes are quite janky, I’m tired
And actually I’m leaving this here and will do more tomorrow because I have been working on this for like two hours. What have I committed to. Anyway. That’s the basics of Togruta sexual dimorphism I guess
The Reproductive System of the Togruta has been a subject of fascination for many centuries due to the species's ability to reproduce with many others in the known galaxy. This biological adaptability is considered a blessing to those eager to start families with partners not of their kind and a curse to those unfortunately familiar with the nature of trafficking that runs rampant in many systems. In this section, we will discuss the ovarian side of the system. Like other mammalia species, it is composed of two parts: internal and external genitalia. The external are the Labia Majora and Minora, the Clitoris, and the Urethral and Vaginal Openings. The internal are the Vagina, Cervix, Uterus, Fallopian Tubes, and Ovaries.
While it is the job of all the outer genitalia to protect the inner from infection, it is the Majora that covers them all. It is hairless like 99.9% of the Togruta body and is described as being shaped like an “ovular mound cut in half”. The Minora comes after, protecting the Urethral and Vaginal Openings; while the same shape as the Majora, it is thinner and lighter in color. The Clitoris is a sex organ which splits the Minora; it functions alongside the internal organs. Lastly, the Urethral and Vaginal Openings are the bottom of the Urethra and Vagina respectively. The first is where urine exits after being expelled from the bladder, and the second serves multiple purposes, allowing the penetration of the body for both reproduction, self-pleasure, or the birth of children.
The internal organs all function for the creation and development of offspring. Located in the pelvis, the Vagina is a tube of muscle that varies in length, width, and color by person. During penetrative sex or masturbation, the nerves within the vaginal walls are stimulated to cause arousal. The Cervix is a muscular tube that attaches the vagina and uterus; its length varies but it is commonly around four centimeters long, extending partially into the vagina. Togruta are born with a bicornuate uterus, a uterus that is shaped like a heart due to an indentation at the top of the organ. This causes the hollow cavity of the uterus to be split into two by a layer of tissue. During pregnancy, the uterus expands to accommodate the growth of fetus(s). Afterwards, it shrinks to a size close to what it looked like prior to one's first pregnancy. Connected to the uterus are the Fallopian Tubes which extend away from it forming a “V” shape with an ovary on either tube's end. The Ovaries are round and smooth in shape; it is inside them that ovum (eggs) grow in follicles/sacs until they burst and are released into the Fallopian Tubes. The eggs are maintained within a mucus membrane and are viable for an average Shilian week before they disintegrate and are reabsorbed back into the body.
Togruta who are capable of giving birth normally reach sexual maturity between the ages of 14 and 20. After this, they begin to enter cycles of estrous which lengths differ. Records show that some cycles are rather short, lasting either a few days to a couple of weeks while some can last upwards of half a month. It is common to have an estrous cycle every season/every two Shilian months, but there are some Togruta with irregular or monthly cycles.
During estrous, a Togruta will release pheromones that signal to other mature parties that they are sexually receptive. These pheromones are released by two different organs, the first through the skin via cold sweats as the Togruta's internal and external body temperatures lower, causing them to seek physical contact and other methods of generating heat such as eating, bathing, or wearing more furs. The second secretes from the inner folds of the Labia Majora. The Ovaries also cause hormonal changes in the body, leading to symptoms of arousal, changes in frequency of urination and bowel movements, headaches, changes in sleep patterns, and body aches.
Unlike Humans, Togruta can only conceive during estrous. They are induced ovulators, meaning that eggs are only released from the ovaries because of external stimuli before or during copulation; despite this, they have greater chances of becoming pregnant. The two main ways ovulation can be induced is by stroking the clitoris or vaginal walls.
To become pregnant, sperm must successfully travel through the vagina, cervix, and uterus all the way to the fallopian tubes. This is helped by the cervix which produces mucus that aids travel and protects the sperm from the body's immune system. If an egg is fertilized, it passes through the tubes to the uterus and implants itself onto its lining. By the time an egg implants itself, the corpus luteum- a cell within the ovaries- has begun releasing a hormone that causes the uterine walls to thicken and support growth.
A healthy Togruta using natural methods will normally conceive between 1 and 4 offspring, though there have been cases of sextuple pregnancies. When using intrauterine insemination, a Togruta is more likely to conceive more than one child with single pregnancies being rare. In contrast, in vitro fertilization results in singular pregnancies and rare multi-conceptions. Studies have found that Shili's colder months have a propensity for “baby booms”, a significant increase in birth rates, to occur. This is determined to be an evolutionary hold out from the Togruta's quadrapedal ancestors who are believed to have only mated during that time.
Fetal Development
Togruta normally carry their offspring for around 400 rotations/days, or 67 weeks/7.4 months. The fetus(s) development is tracked in intervals of 100 rotations each containing three stages of the gestational period. As a Togruta will likely already be weeks ahead in their pregnancy before seeing a health professional, Ob/Gyn start tracking pregnancies by the first day of the Togruta's estrous cycle or the first day they had relations if it is known.
First Interval
Stage 1: Ovulation is induced, and ovum travel to the fallopian tubes to await fertilization. After ejaculation, sperm travels through the system to reach an egg and burrows inside to become a zygote. The zygote(s) begin to undergo mitosis, cells splitting as it travels to the uterus. By the time it reaches the uterine cavity, it has become a blastocyst, implanting itself upon the walls. Following a successful implantation, the body starts producing hormones to support pregnancy. Overall, the timeline for this stage is 20 rotations/3 weeks and two days. At this stage, the blastocyst is invisible to the naked eye and cannot be conventionally measured in size.
Stage 2: After the blastocyst is implanted it splits into two, becoming the embryo and placenta. Soon after, the amniotic sac, a membrane that protects the fetus during gestation, forms around everything. These phases of development take an estimated 25 rotations, after which the embryo continues to grow. An additional 10 days will pass before the embryo has become three distinct layers of cells, the endoderm, mesoderm, and ectoderm, all of which will become the different systems of the body. At this stage, the embryo is about the size of a citrus seed, less than a centimeter in size, as is completely translucent.
Stage 3: The embryo continues to grow, taking on the shape of a worm and is currently around a centimeter and a half long. After 20 rotations, a tail will sprout on one end while the other will have two lobules atop one another. The last twenty days of this stage will see the vestige of the circulatory system begin to form. By the end, the embryo's size should be around two centimeters.
Second Interval
Stage 4: As the the circulatory system forms, as does the neural tube that makes up the brain and spinal cord. This takes around 28 days. After, the beginnings of the digestive system take shape, and the placenta and umbilical cord will have fully developed, providing the embryo with much needed oxygen and nutrients. At this stage, the embryo's size is still the same as it was at the end of the Third.
Stage 5: The head, montrals, lekku, and limbs emerge. The two lobules distinguish themselves with the top becoming ovular, almost bean-like, in shape; this will be the hollow horns and head-tails. At the same time, the second begins to wrinkle and fold, preparing for the construction of the eyes, nose, and jaw. The arms and legs start out as simple nubs before growing out into wedded appendages. By this time, the tail, now apart of the spinal cord, has begun to shrink, and the embryo's features will somewhat resemble that of a typical Togruta fetus. This stage takes around 10 days, and, by the end of it, the embryo has grown to a quarter of an inch.
Stage 6: This stage takes up the last sixty-two days of the Second Interval. Many of the body's other essential systems begin to develop, and the embryo begins to rapidly grow in size. The head sees the formation of lips and eyelids, the eyes gain their retinas, and the montrals gain the auditory bulla to later help them hear. Muscles, bone, and cartilage form, leading to movement within the womb as the limbs and phalanges are better defined, and veins and arteries come into existence. By the end of this stage, the tail of the spinal cord is completely gone; and the the embryo has now become a proper fetus; its size is three and a half inches.
*The Second Interval is where the Togruta's womb starts to expand as the amniotic sac's fluid swells in volume. This is also the point in the pregnancy where the parent begins to lactate.
Third Interval
Stage 7: Organs have begun to migrate to their proper place; the intestines, once located within the umbilical cord, move inside the abdomen, and the eyes, nose, and lips gather symmetrically on the face. The fetus' muscles mature, leading to more fluid movement within the womb. The montrals and lekku begin to lengthen, looking like a helmet around the head. Nails begin their slow growth from the fingers and toes.
Stage 8: The fetus' heart rate becomes steady. The brain gains convolutions/wrinkles; more brain cells start to develop. Fat is accumulating within the body. Nerves are covered in myelin, a fatty membrane that helps signals travel/send messages. The fetus' has begun producing more red blood cells, sending them to various organs. The nervous system matures in senses; touch and taste are better developed than than hearing, sight, and smell.
Stage 9: The fetus has begun to suckle and swallow fluid within the sac; taste buds develop. Prints start to form on the fingers and toes. The fetus develops a temporary coating called vernix to protect its skin from wrinkles caused by the amniotic fluid; it also helps regulate their body temperature and promotes immune health. The skin begins to gain its pigmentation, becoming opaque.
*An interval dictated by the continued rapid growth of the fetus; by the end, it will 18 inches in size and weigh two and a half pounds. The parent will begin to feel the movement of their offspring inside of them. Their belly expands further, and stretch marks start to appear on the body.
Fourth Interval
Stage 10: The growth of the fetus slows down. The eyes open, but the vision is still blurry; they begin to blink often. The lungs prepare to operate outside of the womb alongside the nose; the sense of smell is fully developed. The fetus starts reacting to external stimuli with movement and touch and can experience REM sleep.
Stage 11: The fetus gains their eyelashes, the only hair on the Togruta body. Greyish-white dots appear where body markings will grow- brow, chest, back, arms, legs, etc. The immune and digestive system prepare for life outside the womb. The fetus begins moving into position to be birthed, head down towards the cervix.
Stage 12: Also referred to as the Term Stage, this starts two weeks/twelve days before the parent's due date. Most bodily functions are operational with a few exceptions. The child(ren) will be born somewhat blind and deaf. The montrals and bones of the skull are still soft for easier travel out of the birth canal. By the end of this stage, the fetus should be about 20 inches in size and weigh three and a half pounds.
*It must be noted that if one were to go by the Galactic Standard Calendar, Togruta carry their young for 333 rotations/days, or 66.5 weeks/9.5 months. Because of this time difference, the stage tracking of pregnancies for Togruta living on Core Worlds is substantially different. Many Ob/Gyn on these worlds follow human-oriented natal care, and stages of Togruta pregnancies are consequently merged to fit that medical model.
Pregnancy Symptoms & Complications
Now that you know the development of the offspring, we can discuss the health of the Togruta carrying them. General pregnancy symptoms tend to be Fatigue, Fever, Mood Swings, Nausea, Changes in Eating Habits, Changes in Frequency of Urination, and Urinary Tract Infections. These can be experienced throughout every stage of the gestational period. However, records also show that some symptoms only show in specific intervals. For example, during the First Interval, the Togruta will notice abdominal pressure as the embryo implants itself in the uterus. The Second Interval will prompt the darkening of the parent's areolas and their breasts and/or head-tails start to become tender and swell. The Third Interval may see some develop more acute hearing, smell, and/or taste. As one nears their due date, they should display a decrease or cease in all symptoms.
For many, the development of the fetus(s) can be a relatively subdued experience while others can be debilitating and leave them bed-ridden for long periods of time, weeks or perhaps even months. In these vulnerable moments, expecting parents have to rely on their clan and community to bring them food, water, and keep company. Those with physical and/or mental disabilities have been found to be more likely to experience complications than those without. Some complications that can arise are:
Anemia: With a lower than normal number of red blood cells, one may begin to feel weak or tired. Supplementing the pregnant party with more iron could help manage symptoms.
Anxiety: Changes in body and hormone levels can cause symptoms of anxiety within pregnant Togruta. Fear, worry, and/or panic over their new offspring can develop into physical complications such as heart palpitations if not managed. Studies have found that supportive partners, clan, and community can help with these feelings.
Auditory Hallucinations: Pregnant Togruta can sometimes hear voices, animal growls, or movement when there is none. These perceived sounds can cause great distress, leading to symptoms of anxiety, sleep deprivation, or self harm. Studies have found that Togruta who have lost loved ones, such as a parent, friend, or partner are more likely to have this complication. It is imperative that the pregnant party seek the help of a trusted companion or medical expert to help manage these symptoms.
Body Dysmorphia: With the changes that pregnancy brings upon the body, some Togruta find themselves suffering from BDD. Focusing on perceived flaws of their body, constant rechecking of appearance, compulsive grooming, and symptoms of depression and anxiety are all things that can be observed.
Depression: With pregnancy comes changes not only in the body but also in lifestyle. Pregnant parties may begin to exhibit symptoms of depression as they are hindered in enjoying or participating in community ventures such as The Hunt or even bedridden on account of complications. This can lead to lack of care for oneself and the fetus(s). It is crucial that pregnant Togruta in a depressive state have a companion and/or something to keep them busy to help manage these symptoms.
Ectopic Pregnancy: A life-threatening complication where an egg implants itself elsewhere but the uterus, usually the fallopian tubes. This can cause ruptures, internal, bleeding, and infection. In these cases, the pregnancy must be ended to save the parent's life. If this is the cause, symptoms of depression may follow; supportive peers are needed in this case both for the recovery period and mourning process.
Extreme Edema of the Legs, Ankles, or Feet: Fluid builds up in the tissue of the person's lower half causing swelling. Trouble or the inability to walk may occur along with soreness in the affected area.
Hyperacusis: The reverb between one's montrals becomes heightened, making common sounds such as talking or running water sound extremely loud causing headaches, migraines, loss of balance, stress, or anxiety. Episodes of this can cause pregnant parties to isolate out of fear, leading to depression due to lack of socialization.
Hyperemesis: While nausea is a common symptom of pregnancy, this complication entails persistent nausea and vomiting. Togruta experiencing this can develop weight loss, dehydration, and sore throat.
Preeclampsia: A possibly life-threatening condition that develops during the Third Interval onward. Togruta can develop hypertension and high amounts of protein in their urine. If not treated, this can lead to organ damage, seizures, blurry or darkening vision, and more.
Preterm Birth: The child is born before the Third Interval is passed. This can lead to many health complications for the infant or even death depending on the stage of development.
Infertility, Miscarriage & Stillbirth
While Togruta have a greater chance to become pregnant, there are still those who struggle to do so. Infertility is a common issue for 1 in 6 Togruta across Shili. While on a whole, fertility for those capable of giving birth decreases after a person's sixtieth birthday, public health records show that irregularities in the internal genitalia- not ovulating during copulation, endometriosis- and other parts of the body along with missed estrous have a large part to play in the inability to conceive for those younger.
Historical records on Shili show fertility treatments going back millennia within many of the Unified Tribes. The treatments varied by region, application, and drawbacks, but many were efficient enough to survive the test of time. Modern gynecology built itself off these pre-industrial findings, leading to a multitude of options ranging from medicine to surgery all being available to those who want it. For instance, gynecological and birth records report that families with fertility issues were were more likely to use either surrogacy or IVF.
Alongside infertility, there are also many who struggle to stay pregnant. A miscarriage, or spontaneous abortion, is classified as a pregnancy that is lost prior to the Third Interval. It is during the beginning stages of pregnancy that one could lose their offspring to a variety of reasons; hormonal imbalances, viral infections, genetics, and age are just some of the many. There is also evidence that suggests that some species are more difficult to reproduce with than others. In the case of Twi'lek, Nautolan, and Mikkian partners, the risk of miscarriage goes up by 15% compared to Humans (4%), Mirialans (7%), or Pantorans (5%). After a miscarriage, the embryonic tissue and uterus lining disintegrates and is reabsorbed. The person may have never known they were pregnant to to begin with, or, in the cases of multiples, the individual could miscarry one child and carry the other(s) to term. Additionally, there are very rare cases where the fetus(s) mummify within the womb. This happens when, after the fetal death, the body creates an additional protective membrane around the amniotic sac, and the embryo dies up inside of it. In these situations, if there are no healthy fetus(s) within the womb, the parent is induced into labor to protect their health as, while not common, the membrane could break and cause sepsis. It is possible for a Togruta to become pregnant again after a miscarriage. Research shows that there is no change in the ability for one to conceive after such an event, however, there is also a greater chance for them to miscarry again.
On Shili, a stillbirth is classified as a fetal death that has occurred between the Seventh Stage and the Term Stage. Causes can range from problems with the placenta and/or umbilical cord, genetics, pregnancy complications, and infections. Stillbirths are a possibility for any and all pregnant persons; however, studies have found that older and/or disabled Togruta have a higher risk of loss. In the event of one, it is up to the parent to choose how they wish to remove the fetus from their body, natural or induced labor or cesarean. Much like miscarriages, stillbirths are a time of mourning, and it is important for grieving parents to have someone to confide in. For many Togruta, it may take months or even years before they attempt to conceive again.
While infertility, miscarriages, and stillbirth all have their own factors leading into them, matters of nutrition, environmental circumstances, alcohol and/or substance abuse, trauma, sexually transmitted disease, and disability can contribute to each possibility. It is important that all pregnant persons have routine check-ups with health specialists to reaffirm both their own and their child's health.
Labor
There are three stages to Togruta labor: Contractions, Birthing, and Expiration. Contraction is where the muscles of the uterus tighten and relax over a series of hours. This allows the Cervix to both thin and dilate; it also compresses the blood vessels in the uterus to minimize the risk of blood loss and pushes the fetus(s) down the birth canal. Contractions normally start two to four days before it is time to give birth. They can last upwards of over a minute and get stronger as time passes. Some laboring Togruta have described contractions as a sharp pain across one's stomach and stealing the breath out of one's lungs. It is generally recommended that expecting parents seek refuge and pain relief when contractions start even if they haven't become debilitating. By the end of this stage, the cervix should have dilated by a foot.
The second stage is where the Togruta actually births their offspring. Guided by a healer or doctor, they must push alongside their contractions. This stage's duration is indeterminate, dependent on the number of offspring the Togruta is carrying and how fast each leaves the birth canal.
The last stage is the most important. Since Togruta offspring are born with the amniotic sac still intact, it much be cut open. Any fluid within the mouth and nose are to be cleared and a warm hand must rub their chest to trigger the infants lungs to begin expanding. Finally, they must be cut from their umbilical cord. These steps must be repeated for any and all offspring the Togruta births.
Centuries before the invention of bacta, cesarean deliveries were performed on Shili. With the parent induced into an altered state of mind, their abdomen was sliced, and poultices to mitigate blood loss were arranged around the incision. The fetus(es) were removed and Expiration was conducted as normal. Once the delivery was complete, the incision was closed and another medicated poultice was applied to assist in the healing process. In modern times, the incision point is numbed with medication, and a bacta dressing is applied over the stitching for those applicable.
Labor Complications
While Togruta labor is a somewhat straight forward endeavor, there are problems that can arise during the process. These can include but are not limited to:
Abnormal Infant Positioning: A scenario in which the baby prepares to leave the uterus in an incorrect position. This can be feet or buttocks first or sideways. Due to the shape of the Togruta's uterus, it is more likely for these sort of complications to occur, especially if they are pregnant with more than one child. Though most pregnancies will see infant position righted with no intervention, deliveries with this complication can lead to injury for the parent.
Constricted Umbilical Cord: The umbilical cord has been compromised, usually by infant movement within the womb, leading to the infant being deprived of oxygen and nutrients. This is a possibly fatal situation, in some cases needing of a cesarean section to rescue to the infant.
Inter-species Term Birth: Some species have shorter or longer gestational periods than Togruta. Because of this, labor may need to be induced early for the sake of the parent's and child's health.
Obstructed Birth Canal: A complication in which the infant is prevented from leaving through the cervix by an obstacle. This normally arises during a Sac Rupture, either the placenta or umbilical cord leaves the cervix during infant positioning and blocks passage. This complication can cause vaginal bleeding, and a cesarean may need to be conducted.
Preterm Labor: Labor begins before the Third Interval of pregnancy. This complication can lead to premature birth; however, there are treatments available to stop the process and allow the fetus(s) to develop as normal.
Rapid Labor: A serious complication in which the infant exits the uterus before the cervix can fully dilate, this can lead to internal injuries such as vaginal, cervical, and/or anal tearing; this could lead to hemorrhaging and shock. If the parent was not secured in a clean birthing area, they are also at risk of infection.
Sac Rupture: The amniotic sac breaks during contractions. While this in and of itself is considered a minor complication as the placenta will now have to be passed alongside the child, sac ruptures can lead to other problems such as infection, obstructed birth canal, or a constricted umbilical cord.
Uterine Rupture: A possibly fatal emergency where the walls of the uterus tear open. While a rare complication, it is no less serious and can be caused by trauma to the uterus, a breech pregnancy, or if one's uterus is stretched too thin, something seen with multi-child pregnancies, and needs to be fixed with surgery immediately after child delivery. While in most cases, parent and child are fine in the aftermath, some uterine ruptures lead to the removal of the uterus all together.
Post- Labor & Complications
For Togruta, the first cycle after birth is one of merriment and wariness. As clans acclimate to the new addition(s), they are also monitoring the health of the post labor parent. While some heal relatively well, there are some who are afflicted with symptoms ranging from fatigue, high grade fevers, painful bowel movements, to odorous vaginal discharge or bleeding. A healer/doctor can usually treat these symptoms, assuring their charge's health is maintained, but others may require more in-depth assistance or even hospitalization. These can be a stroke, shock, hemorrhaging, seizures, shortness of breath, etc. Left untreated, post-labor complications can be fatal.
Alongside possible physical disorders, there are also mental struggles. Two known illnesses are postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis respectively. PPD is a depressive state that can last upwards of weeks or months and starts in the following days after birth. The parent may begin to display common depression symptoms along with being distant from their offspring, family, and friends; they can also experience intrusive thoughts of harming themselves or the child(ren). PPP is a condition that onsets in the following weeks after birth. The parent develops symptoms such as hallucinations, delusion, insomnia, depression or mania, anxiety, and depersonalization. PPD and PPP are believed to be more common in Togruta than in species like Humans; a dissertation by Psychologist Barika Zavros asserts that Togruta struggle with psychological ailments more than other species due their spatial awareness and connection to the planet in which they walk upon. Be that as it may, both of these illnesses can be treated with the help of a professional, and early intervention has been shown to have greater results.
Conclusion
The Togruta's ovarian system is a complex wonder capable of giving life not only to their own, but many other sapients, even some plenty would consider to be unusual. The species' adaptability is one to marvel, though one can never forget the most important element to bring about a healthy pregnancy. Connection and support is what drives many of the Togruta, both culturally and biologically. With not only healers but their partner(s), family, and friends at their side, expecting parents can be sure to welcome another into their fold in just a hair's breadth of a year.
Before the rule of the Supreme Huntress, Shamans were the primary source of spiritual guidance on Shili, tending to the needs of their community and instructing others on proper worship. These public figures were normally either everyday Togruta, recluses, or people with leadership positions depending on the settlement and tribe. Shamans would use what they could, forage, goods cultivated on their own grounds, and whatever produce was allotted in their share of the hunt and harvest, in their works.
After the rise of the monarchy, alongside the industrialization of Corvala and the Ivory Cities, resources were allocated towards the centralization of faith, resulting in the creation of the Priestess and Priest roles. Shamans became uncommon as shrines could rely on the donations of clans, tax credits from the Ministry of Spiritual Affairs, and the proximity to larger markets to obtain items in bulk. This availability of resources and the ability for spiritual leaders to congregate and further extend aid to their people is the linchpin to the Shaman role's phasing out.
Despite this planetary-wide change, the traditional role is kept alive within smaller villages and remote communities within the Territories, places where the closest town or city is at least a week's travel by mount. These humble places would not benefit from the presence of a government aided shrine, its upkeep outweighing what help it could offer.
In the past, the only way to become a Shaman was to learn under the current, having been taken under wing at some point in the predecessor's life. Now, children can be sent to learn at shrines and return once their training is complete if the former is no longer an option. Communities that still look to these traditional guides have created a new custom where the current Shaman keeps a remembrance of the last so that the history of the Shaman role will never be lost to time.
A species often praised for their natural beauty, the Togruta have developed a sense of style that accentuates their multi-toned skin and striking physical traits. Parts of their fashion can denote a person's social status, skill, and age, while others are used to convey non-verbal messages to their peers. Certain adornments have been incorporated into the warrior aspects of their culture, being used as military signals during times of war.
While there are subtle variations in how the United Tribes of Shili distinguish their members from one another, sociologists have found that there is an overarching commonality within the Togruta's style of dress. However, before one can get into the species' various forms of adornment, one must first understand the importance of Left and Right in Shili's customs:
Left represents Devotion, while Right represents Duty. This duality affects several of the Togruta's practices, including social etiquettes such as dining and courtesy, or the preparation of annual festivals, rites, and rituals.
When it comes to Shilian Dress, what is exhibited is often subjective, depending on the Togruta and the matters in their life. For example, one person might be devout in their beliefs and towards their clan and cohorts, while another might be devoted to their partner(s) and career and feel responsibility towards their offspring and animal companions. There is no right or wrong in these displays of beautification.
Sociologists have noted that there are times when a Togruta may wish to denote an equal amount of devotion and duty towards a personal matter. When this happens, they tend to focus on centered adornments such as necklaces and chains and even dress up their back head-tail. Togruta that have been born with two back tails will go so far as to bind them together to further express their sentiments.
General Types of Jewelry
Headdresses: Made from various materials such as wood, leather, metals, and the teeth of the infamous akul, the headdress is the centerpiece of all Togrutan jewelry. Its make can determine what region of Shili a Togruta is from and what social class they're a part of.
Montral Caps: Metal plating that covers a Togruta's montrals. This jewelry has to be specially made as the size and shape of their horns differ from person to person.
Montral & Head-tail Strands: Beads and/or gems strung together with pearls and stones to make a statement piece. It can be one single strand wrapped around a tail or a long piece conjoined with a headdress. Some Togruta attach strands to the back of their headdresses and allow them to hang in a curtain-like fashion.
Tail Cuffs: A band that clasps around a head-tail. These adornments come in both magnetic and clip form, allowing the wearer to attach embellishments such as metallic flowers, gilded feathers, and head-tail strands. This jewelry is mistakenly called an “earring” or “ear cuff” by non-Togruta.
Necklaces: The second most common statement jewelry, Togruta use necklaces for both everyday beautification and non-verbal messages via their components.
Armlets: Often used to denote religious devotion, allegiances to groups or persons, or a Togruta's status within an organization or business, these pieces of jewelry generally contain iconography, poetry, and other embellishments.
Bracelets, Bangles, and Hand Harnesses: A common gift for relatives, companions, and lovers, these types of jewelry come in a variety of mediums and designs with metals, wood, glass, and an assortment of gems.
Rings and Signets: A piece of jewelry common among merchants, business goers, bankers, and hunters of substance and bounties; they are used to represent oneself, one's clan, and/or one's trade.
Waist Chains: A statement piece used to enhance a Togruta's desirability. In some tribes, this adornment is used to show that a Togruta is ready for marriage; in others, it is used to show how many spouses and children a Togruta has. Historically, waist chains have been used by scouts and envoys to collect, transport, and deliver information.
Chatelaines: A common adornment among artisans; their make is determined by the wearer's trade.
Anklets: Much like their forearm-worn parallels, these types of adornments are common gifts among Togruta and come in a variety of mediums and designs. This jewelry is a common wedding gift in some tribes.
Foot Harnesses: An adornment worn and gifted by wealthier individuals, as the practice of going barefoot on the sacred land tends to make this jewelry harder to maintain.
Other Types of Adornment
Togruta Sashes: A traditional garment used by the United Tribes to distinguish their members from one another. Sashes are usually worn in two different ways: across the waist or across the shoulder.
Wrappings: Leather and cloth wrappings are used to emphasize the curve on a Togruta's horns or provide protection to their arms and legs.
Head-tail Binder: Cloth or metal used to hold one's head-tails together. Common among Togruta who have long head-tails and engage in work where they could be injured, such as engineering, factory work, construction, etc.
Pelt/Hides: Worn both as a sign of pride and maturity, pelts/hides are a large part of the Togruta's fashion. Furs and skins are commonly made into capes, cloaks, shawls, utility skirts, arm and leg warmers, and other forms of clothing.
Masks: A practice in which a Togruta wears a face covering resembling or bearing the animal or insect of the zodiac they were born under or of the prey they killed during a hunt. They are typically worn during both hunts and festivals.
Masks are generally made out of wood or the preserved skull of an animal that has been coated in gold, silver, or brass; however, wealthier Togruta also tend to make them out of jade or obsidian. While some may choose to wear their masks plain, others apply additional embellishments such as carvings or gems.
When on duty, members of the Royal Guard wear near featureless masks to protect their faces and identities.
Hunters' Adornments
Akul Tooth Headdress: Only allowed to be worn by those who have slain an akul with no assistance. The hunters who've accomplished this feat are afforded a measure of respect in their settlement. In marriage negotiations, those who've slain an akul are expected to have a higher dowry than others.
Claw Rings: Claws of predators that have been fashioned into rings and painted with symbols for good luck.
Trophy Necklace & Belt: Made from the teeth or claws of predators, usually worn to show prowess.
Juyalpa: The foot of a burrow-dwelling herbivore called the Juyaldé, thought to bring good luck and fortune.
Tusk Charm: The carved tusk of prey that has been consecrated and attached to a hunter's weapon or belt.
Spiritual & Political Adornments
The Queen's Vow: A heavy chain worn by the Regasa not only to signify her status but as a reminder of her duty to her planet and people.
Courtier's Brooch: When Shili's Royal Court is in session, attendants are made to wear brooches with tracking IDs inside for the safety of the Regasa and other members of Shili's government:
Iballia Brooch: Worn by the Ambassador, Ministers, Governesses/Governors, and Royal Priestesses and Priests. The Iballia is a vine plant that produces small, white, bell-shaped flowers in clusters.
Menta Brooch: Worn by high-ranking officials of the Military, Fleet, Intelligence Service, and Security Council. The Menta is a bush plant that produces red, funnel-shaped flowers.
Rice Stalk Brooch: Worn by commoners- bankers, lobbyists, etc.- who've applied to have an audience with the Supreme Huntress.
Mark of the Heir Apparent: An armlet worn on the right bicep to show the line of inheritance, used in both familial and religious settings.
Mark of Devotion: An armlet worn on the left bicep to show faith in a Togruta's personal god or gods.
Veils: Veiling is a practice in which a religious figure covers their face with an embroidered cloth to ward off the effects of malicious spirits, demons, and manipulative persons. Some choose to combine their veils with their masks, removing the lower jaw to replace it with the fabric.
Meaning of Metals, Gems, and Other Minerals
Gold, Silver, & Brass: Common minerals found both on planet and in off-world mining operations, these natural resources represent a connection to Sheela, Goddess of Creation, Cycles, Rebirth, and Change, and the planet itself.
Pearls: An abundant resource found in the rivers and seas of Shili and the system's second moon, they represent Diligence, Strength, and Ambition.
Amethyst: Worn by followers of Devi, Goddess of Timekeeping, Knowledge, and Judgment, and is Shili's first moon. Awards for attorneys who've been recognized for excellence in their field usually have this gem embedded in them.
Apatite: Thought to promote Fertility and Growth. Togruta trying for children hang this over their bedding before coupling.
Aquamarine: This gemstone promotes Clarity. Togruta who suffer from chronic visions tend to keep this gem on their person.
Aventurine: This common quartz is associated with both brothels and sex workers. Establishments tend to be liberal with the use of this mineral, with high-class brothels commissioning mosaics to attract clients and lower-end businesses decorating their entrance-ways with vases bearing eye-catching designs. Sex workers tend to wear this quartz on waist chains, armlets, and chokers.
Bloodstone: Used to create Kidoula (“Oath Bead”). These crystals represent unions and the demigod Kudzu and are used in both marriages and business deals. Kidoula come in two sizes, one as a wearable bead and another the size of a speedball that can be kept in offices or on clan altars. When these beads are strung with snow quartz, it means that the wearer is now divorced. Some Togruta create separate head-tail strands to represent each of their unions.
Chrysoberl: Thought to promote Health and Longevity, this gem is highly sought after.
Citrine: This quartz crystal represents Loyalty and Valor.
Clear Quartz: This crystal represents New Beginnings and Hope.
Diamond: With a wide range of colors and applications, this crystal has come to represent love and marriage, being used in various decorations and accessories. Those open to dating/offers to court tend to wear red or green diamond necklaces or waist chains as non-verbal cues of availability. Diamond rings have come to have a stranglehold in Togruta Pop Culture, the jewelry being worn by star-crossed lovers in many holofilms and shows.
Emerald: This crystal promotes Harmony and Resolutions.
Garnet (Red): This gemstone promotes Patience and Stability.
Garnet (Purple): This gemstone represents Wisdom.
Garnet (Orange & Green): Used to create Tadoula (“Infant Bead”). These crystals represent parenthood and are sometimes carved into the shape of an egg. The number of beads a Togruta has on their person correlates to the number of children they have.
Iolite: Thought to bring the wearer great fortune. This gem is primarily made into necklaces and wrist wear.
Jade: A resource that is generally found among the upper class of Togruta. It is normally used to create jewelry boxes, masks, mirrors, and other luxuries. It is rumored that the Regasa's safe house, located on Shili's fourth moon, is decorated entirely with white jade furniture.
Jet: Used to make Shimekkoula ("Mourning Bead"); these represent the passing of a loved one. Shimekkoula are normally threaded alongside other beads of significance such as Kidoula, marking the passing of a spouse, and Tadoula, marking the passing of one's child. Some Togruta will add references to their loved one's cause of death, such as the teeth of a predator or chrysoberl for poor health. Others add a bead of snow quartz for every cycle since the deceased's passing.
Kyanite: This crystal is thought to promote Serenity and Balance.
Lapis Lazuli: Another gem associated with sex workers, it is often added to mosaics to catch clients' eyes or adorned on the workers in some manner.
Moonstone (Star): Used in decorative pieces, mostly associated with the Togrutan Zodiac. The astrological clock located in the center of the Capital, Corvala, has many beautiful gems embedded inside it, but its most notable feature is the large stones representing the system's venerated satellites.
Moonstone (White): Worn by followers of one or more of the six moon deities, white moonstone is one of the most common gems found on Shili.
Moonstone (Rainbow): Worn by followers of Ridhi, God/Goddess of the Seas, Rivers, Tides, and Trade, and is the second moon of Shili. Captains tend to wear this gem even if they are not a devotee of this specific deity as it is considered bad luck to get on a vessel without one.
Moonstone (Pink): Worn by followers of Indira, Goddess of the Dead, and is Shili's fourth moon.
Moonstone (Green): Worn by followers of Hassan, God of Fertility and Lineages, and is Shili's sixth moon.
Moonstone (Cat's Eye): Worn by prolific hunters and followers of the Goddess of the Hunt and Hearth, this gem is reminiscent of the eye of the infamous akul. Some tribes hold the myth that the first Cat's Eye was the crystallized organ of the animal.
Moonstone (Blue): Believed to ward off the attacks of malicious spirits. Commonly hung over cradles and adorned on children as they are easier prey.
Onyx (Black): Worn by followers of Anant, God of Magic, Prophecy, and Dreams, and is Shili's third moon.
Opal (Black & White): Believed to represent the diverse beauty of the Togruta, their connection to their planet, and enhance the wearer's charm; this gem is sought after fervently.
Ruby: This gem represents Stalwartness, Devotion, and Honor.
Sapphire: This gem is thought to promote good dreams. New parents often hang charms threaded with sapphire beads above their infant's cradle.
Snow Quartz: This quartz represents Mortality and Change and is often paired with other gems to make a statement piece. Snow Quartz is sometimes given to another as a silent message of wanting to end a relationship or a plea for one to work on their character.
Sodalite: A very common mineral, it is used to add variety both to a Togruta's adornments or their home decor.
Sunstone: Worn by followers of the demigod of the sun. This feldspar is believed to give the wearer protection from the sun's harmful rays.
Topaz: Worn by followers of Lak-mé, Goddess of Medicine & Healing, and is Shili's fifth moon.
Zircon: A gem noted for its use by ceramists, one is most likely to find this gem on the person or in the abode of art enthusiasts.
---
Credits:
In The High Republic: The Rising Storm, the Regasa, Elarec Yovet, is said to wear a chain signifying her rank. The name of the jewelry was given by myself as the book does not describe the chain in detail. The masks of the Royal Guard are only given a few words as well and seemingly no purpose other than to set the scene as the Captain, Maramis, loses his mask later in the book and it is not commented on or seemingly recognized by the author.
In the New Essential Guide to Alien Species, the akul tooth headdress and pelts/ hides are talked about briefly, with pelts/hides being commonly worn and the headdress being part of their traditions.
How are you going to use canon and legends in your world building?
I'm building off of both, keeping most of what's been established, expanding on the bare bones, and exploring my specific head canons. One of the main reasons I take so long to post new things- other than general life stuff- is that I'm researching, designing, and making sure that everything connects to the best of my ability.
It's kinda like weaving to be honest. Togruta canon and legends are colorful strings ready to be woven into a fuller tapestry. It's founding isn't perfect, but you work with what you're given and add on what you've brought to the table. Some of it can be frustrating- I could've strangled Lucas for not specifying the type of Monarchy that's on Shili- but I also like a challenge and to create, so I at least have something to keep me busy for...well, the rest of my life?
