Hyurg

The Hyurg are a unique species of collective consciousness beings that exist as swarms of metallic asteroid dust held together by complex electromagnetic fields. As residents of the Omnium Theocracy, they represent one of the most enigmatic civilizations to sign the Covenant of Sanctuary. Their primary district within the theocracy is Astroloth, a vast region designed to mimic the asteroid fields of their origin.

A Hyurg collective displaying their characteristic shimmering, cloud-like form while studying ancient artifacts

Physical Nature

The fundamental nature of the Hyurg defies traditional biological classification. Each individual Hyurg consists of billions of microscopic metallic particles, working in perfect unison through electromagnetic bonds. These particles can freely reorganize themselves, allowing a Hyurg to shift between an amorphous cloud state and more defined forms at will. Their consciousness exists as a distributed network across every particle, with each grain containing fragments of memory and awareness that contribute to the whole.

When condensed, Hyurg typically maintain a size comparable to other sapient species, though they can expand to fill much larger volumes or contract into incredibly dense forms depending on their needs. Their natural coloration ranges from deep gunmetal gray to brilliant silver, with occasional iridescent patterns forming across their surface as electromagnetic fields fluctuate.

Society and Culture

Hyurg society is built around the preservation and study of history through direct material contact. Unlike the Vorthen who focus on academic pursuit of knowledge, the Hyurg take a more intimate approach by physically absorbing historical information from objects they touch. Their ability to interface with materials at an atomic level allows them to "read" the physical changes and impressions left on items over time.

This unique capability has made them invaluable as historical archivists within the theocracy. A single Hyurg can process and store vast amounts of historical data simply by coming into contact with ancient artifacts or structures. They maintain strict protocols about sharing this knowledge, carefully documenting their findings through conventional means so other species can benefit from their discoveries.

Combat Capabilities

Though naturally peaceful, the Hyurg possess formidable defensive capabilities. Their particulate nature allows them to disperse incoming attacks, while their ability to rapidly condense into hyper-dense formations enables them to generate tremendous kinetic force. During the War for Eternity, several Hyurg collectives have demonstrated their combat potential by transforming into living storms of high-velocity particles capable of shredding even heavily armored targets.

The species maintains a careful balance between their scholarly pursuits and martial capabilities, viewing combat as a regrettable necessity rather than a desired state. This philosophy aligns well with Uzhyr's vision of ordered peace protected by strength when required.

Role in the Theocracy

Within the blightzones crisis, Hyurg have proven especially valuable due to their ability to preserve historical knowledge that might otherwise be lost to the chaos of war. Their district of Astroloth serves as one of the theocracy's most important repositories of historical information, second only to the unshaped Athenaeum in terms of accumulated knowledge.

The Hyurg maintain a complex relationship with the Lawwatch, often serving as consultants in cases involving historical artifacts or ancient technologies. Their ability to read the history of objects makes them particularly useful in investigations requiring authentication of relics or determination of an item's providence.

Interactions with Other Species

Unlike many other species within the theocracy, the Hyurg maintain a notably neutral stance in most inter-species relations. Their primary focus remains on their role as historical archivists, though they will readily share their knowledge when asked. This approach has earned them respect from most other species, who value their impartial perspective and vast repository of historical information.

The Hyurg share a particularly interesting relationship with the Elysians, as both species possess unique approaches to technology and consciousness. While Elysians channel their psionic powers into machines, the Hyurg represent a form of natural technological consciousness, leading to fascinating philosophical exchanges between the two species.

See Also

• The Vorthen
• Astroloth
• Collective Consciousness Beings
• Historical Archivists of the Theocracy