Synthetic
Synthetics, or "Synths," are bioengineered humans, vat-grown with enhanced physical and mental capabilities. Designed for peak efficiency, Synths excel in high-demand roles, including military operations, industrial labor, and scientific research. Their hallmark is their neural interfacing technology, which allows them to directly interact with digital systems. Synths are fundamentally distinct from other life forms, being completely unable to access Eldritch Energy or experience psychic manifestations of Abyssal Resonance, making them ideal for working with alien artifacts and other hazardous materials. However, their unique genetic makeup renders post-birth genetic engineering impossible, and cybernetic enhancements are rare due to the risks and unintended negative consequences they can cause, requiring specialized equipment and exorbitant costs.
Synths were first developed in 2517 CE by ValiGen Biosolutions in collaboration with Nihiltech Corporation and Arcane Biotech. Initially designed to replace human workers and soldiers in high-risk environments, Synths became critical assets during the Resource Wars of the 2520s. Their immunity to Abyssal Resonance and inability to be corrupted by Eldritch Energy cemented their value in hazardous exploration and containment missions.
Synths are humanity’s pursuit of perfection made manifest. Their resistance to Abyssal Resonance and psychic phenomena makes them invaluable in The Shrouded Galaxy, though their limitations—such as an inability to evolve post-creation and the risks of cybernetic enhancements—highlight the boundaries of their design. While Synths excel in their roles, their existence raises profound questions about the intersection of life, technology, and the human soul.
Synths were first developed in 2517 CE by ValiGen Biosolutions in collaboration with Nihiltech Corporation and Arcane Biotech. Initially designed to replace human workers and soldiers in high-risk environments, Synths became critical assets during the Resource Wars of the 2520s. Their immunity to Abyssal Resonance and inability to be corrupted by Eldritch Energy cemented their value in hazardous exploration and containment missions.
Synths are humanity’s pursuit of perfection made manifest. Their resistance to Abyssal Resonance and psychic phenomena makes them invaluable in The Shrouded Galaxy, though their limitations—such as an inability to evolve post-creation and the risks of cybernetic enhancements—highlight the boundaries of their design. While Synths excel in their roles, their existence raises profound questions about the intersection of life, technology, and the human soul.
Basic Information
Anatomy
Synths are biologically human in appearance but feature several engineered enhancements:
Cybernetic modifications to Synths are rare and problematic:
- Skeleton: Reinforced with carbon-nanotube lattices, providing durability without compromising flexibility.
- Musculature: Designed for peak strength and endurance, with dense fiber composition optimized for power output.
- Neural Network: Advanced neurocybernetic implants enable Synths to interface directly with technology, including data networks, vehicles, and weapons.
- Organs: Optimized cardiovascular and respiratory systems support extended exertion and rapid recovery. Unlike humans, Synths are impervious to psychic or Eldritch phenomena.
- Genetic Rigidity: Synths' unique genetic structure is entirely stable and resistant to further genetic manipulation after "birth," ensuring their capabilities remain consistent but unmodifiable.
Cybernetic modifications to Synths are rare and problematic:
- Risks: The unique integration of their biological and technological systems makes alterations to their physical capabilities dangerous.
- Consequences: Enhancements often result in unforeseen complications, such as rejection by the Synth's body or disruptions to neural interfacing systems.
- Cost: Any modifications require specialized care and equipment, making them prohibitively expensive. Most Synths operate with their original specifications unless absolutely necessary.
Genetics and Reproduction
Synths are vat-grown in controlled environments and "born" at the physical and mental age of 16 years. Their genetic structure is designed to be stable, rendering post-birth genetic engineering impossible. This stability ensures reliability but limits adaptability. Synths cannot reproduce naturally, and each is uniquely engineered for a specific role.
Growth Rate & Stages
Synths are developed rapidly, reaching full maturity in 14–16 months:
- Incubation: Monitored for physical and cognitive development within bioengineering vats.
- Maturation: Neural implants are calibrated and tested during this stage to ensure full functionality.
- Operational Readiness: Synths undergo training and acclimation before deployment.
Dietary Needs and Habits
Synths require fewer calories than humans but need a specialized diet to support their enhanced physiology:
- Specialized Nutrients: Synths consume engineered supplements to maintain neural implants and bioengineered organs.
- High-Efficiency Meals: Nutrient-dense food designed for long-term sustenance in high-stress environments.
Behaviour
Synths are designed for discipline and precision but may develop unexpected emotional traits over time:
- High Intelligence: Capable of rapid problem-solving and adaptive thinking.
- Emotionally Neutral: Programmed to suppress emotions, though prolonged human interaction can lead to emotional development.
- Purpose-Driven: Thrive in structured environments but struggle with aimlessness outside of clear objectives.
Additional Information
Facial characteristics
Flawless, symmetrical features
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Synths possess augmented sensory abilities:
- Enhanced Vision: Includes night vision, thermal imaging, and real-time data overlays.
- Auditory Precision: Capable of isolating sounds in chaotic environments, ideal for surveillance or tactical scenarios.
- Neural Interfacing: Synths perceive and manipulate digital systems as extensions of their senses.
- Abyssal Immunity: Synths are unaffected by Eldritch Energy, psychic phenomena, or the corruptive influence of Abyssal Resonance.
Civilization and Culture
History
Synths debuted during the Resource Wars, rapidly becoming indispensable assets in military and industrial roles. Their immunity to Abyssal Resonance made them uniquely suited for missions involving alien relics and Eldritch Energy. Over the centuries, they have become integral to galactic infrastructure, though their presence continues to provoke ethical debates about the nature of life and sentience.
Interspecies Relations and Assumptions
Synths occupy a unique and often contentious position in galactic society:
- Humans: Viewed alternately as tools, rivals, or technological marvels. Their inability to access Eldritch Energy fosters both admiration and distrust.
- Other species: They are often regarded as curiosities, admired for their engineering but viewed with suspicion due to their artificial origins.
Scientific Name
Homo synthetica machina
Lifespan
30–50 years, with cellular degradation limiting longevity unless maintained through regular interventions.
Average Height
1.7–1.9 meters (5'7"–6'3")
Average Weight
60–80 kg (132–176 lbs), reflecting their lean, efficient builds
Average Physique
Uniformly athletic, emphasizing agility and endurance
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
Subdermal markers are visible under certain light spectrums
Comments