Low Chalcheh

Low Chalcheh is a racial classification, and a subset of the Chalcheh races (primarily the Chalchuilhue, for whom both classes are named). Unlike many other descendant races or offshoots, the Low Chalcheh all diverge from the Chalcheh races in a few very common ways, such as eusocialism and a reduced number of limbs. The two most prominent Low Chalcheh races are the Marobunta and the Melifair.

Differentiation of Low Chalcheh and Chalcheh Offshoots

The Low Chalcheh races are not the only groups to descend from the Chalcheh, but they are united within the group of Chalcheh offshoots by a set of characteristics that they all share.

Limbs

Most Chalcheh races and offshoots have ten or eight limbs, of which either two or four are arms and the rest are legs or tentacles. If they possess wings, they will be integrated into another set of limbs. All Low Chalcheh however have six or eight limbs, of which four are always arms. If there are wings, then they will be discreet from all other limbs. All eight-limbed Low Chalcheh are winged.

Reproductive Institutions

Most chalcheh races reproduce as humanoids, with each individual creating their own offspring with another. Low Chalcheh instead have one or more "Queens", which produce all of their group's young and often also function as rulers. Most Low Chalcheh females are infertile and males are relatively rare, although these last two points are not universal.

Collectivism

Chalcheh races are normally very individualistic and independent, and while most are not normally hostile to others of their kind there are exceptions. They tend to prefer solitude, and rarely gather in large groups except when absolutely necessary. The Low Chalcheh, on the other hand, are almost entirely collectivist by nature due to their queens. Most are unable to pass on their lineage themselves, and thus the good of the community becomes the good of the individual.

Insectile Features

Most Chalcheh have humanoid torsos or heads, albeit often with some changes; carapace is almost never found on a Chalcheh's torso or face. Low Chalcheh, however, are almost always covered by carapace in their entirety. Queens often have no carapace at all, however, due to the sizes to which they grow.

Antennae

All Low Chalcheh races have antennae, something that no other Chalcheh race has.

Civilization and Culture

History

The Low Chalcheh races are often understood, however, through their historical origins rather than their physical characteristics. The Low Chalcheh descend from four Chalchuilhue seers, the Seeress of Air, the Seeress of Earth, the Seeress of Metal, and the Seeress of Wood.