The Silicoids refer to Humans as "Bags of mostly water".
Oms, a remarkable species within the silicoid genetic family, are distinguished by their unique physical form and abilities. These beings resemble floating crystal spheres about the size of a basketball, with their appearance further characterized by their dynamic coloration. The hues of an Om shift and flicker, reflecting its emotional state. Additionally, when an Om moves, it produces a subtle humming sound, perceptible to those who listen closely.
Oms are endowed with modest telekinetic and telepathic powers, allowing them to interact with the world and other beings in extraordinary ways.
Range: 5 times their Grit attribute in meters. Capabilities: Oms use their telekinetic ability primarily for self-propulsion. However, their skills extend beyond personal movement. They can exert force fields to manipulate external objects. These fields allow them to handle up to two small objects or light weapons simultaneously. Alternatively, they can control one medium or assault weapon. When stationary, an Om can exert influence over a single medium-sized object or manage a large weapon, showcasing the versatility of their telekinetic prowess.
Range: 10 times their Intellect attribute in meters. Communication and Limitations: Oms are equipped with a complex and advanced thought process. This ability enables them to transmit intricate ideas, images, and patterns of thought with almost instantaneous speed. While this form of communication is highly effective among their own kind, Oms face challenges when interacting with non-silicoid life forms. The disparity in thought processing speeds necessitates a significant slowing down of their mental activity, leading to a simplification of their communication akin to using "baby talk" with other species. Despite this limitation, the depth and speed of their thought transmission within their species remain a testament to their sophisticated cognitive abilities.
In stark contrast to human advancements, the Om have charted a unique path in the realm of technological development. Eschewing the traditional silicon-based compute units and processors, the Om have embraced a more organic approach. Their technology is not manufactured but grown, nurtured in vats as living crystals, mirroring the very process of their own reproduction. This harmonious blend of nature and technology is a hallmark of Om's advanced civilization.
The bond between the Om and their technology is profound and deeply personal. To them, these crystalline creations are more than mere tools; they are akin to cherished companions, treated with the same affection and respect one might show a beloved pet or even a family member. This intimate connection renders Om technology not just rare but sacred.
Acquiring Om technology, therefore, is an endeavor fraught with complexity and sensitivity. Merely expressing the desire to purchase their tech can provoke a deeply emotional reaction from the Om, akin to the shock of proposing to buy a loved one. Despite these challenges, the allure of Om technology is undeniable. Known universally for its unparalleled quality and performance, Om compute units are highly coveted treasures in the interstellar market. Securing one is a feat that speaks not just to one's wealth but also to their ability to navigate the intricate cultural and emotional landscape of the Om society.
In the heart of a distant and enigmatic star system lies the Om homeworld, known simply as Om, a place of awe-inspiring beauty and technological marvel. The Om reside in sprawling cities crafted entirely from crystal, structures so vast and intricate that they defy the imagination. These crystal metropolises are a rare sight, with only a select few from other species having ever set foot on Om.
Visitors who have journeyed to this world speak with wonder of the celestial ballet performed by a quartet of planets. These worlds are locked in a magnetic dance, orbiting their star in such a synchronized pattern that it challenges the very notion of natural occurrence. The alignment and movement of these planets are so precise and complex that they suggest an advanced form of planetary engineering, a feat that seems to surpass even the Om's known capabilities. When inquired about the origin of this cosmic spectacle, the Om respond with a serene acceptance, stating that this harmonious existence is simply their natural state of being.
The surface of these planets, including Om, is predominantly crystalline, creating landscapes that shimmer with an otherworldly glow. The vast majority of this terrain is occupied by the Om's megacities, colossal structures that appear to be both alive and in perfect synergy with their inhabitants. Theoretical physicists have hypothesized that the unique orbits and rotations of these planets may be more than just a stunning display; they could be a source of power for the Om and their crystalline abodes. This celestial mechanism might even hold the key to the genesis of the Om themselves, a mystery that continues to captivate scholars and explorers alike.
In the intricate tapestry of intergalactic relations, the Om hold a unique and vital role, particularly in their service to other races. Renowned across star systems for their pioneering technology, the Om offer a remarkable form of insurance against mortality for carbon-based species. This service became widely known and increasingly essential by the time humans were inducted into the Unicore Accords.
Leveraging their advanced silicon-based tech and the formidable capacity of their crystalline structures, the Om possess the ability to capture the complete synaptic pattern of any carbon-based lifeform. This intricate process involves storing the captured neural imprint within an organic Om Crystal, popularly referred to as a Mindshard. These Mindshards, when combined with cutting-edge cloning techniques, enable individuals who can afford the cost to maintain a backup of their consciousness. In the event of an unexpected demise, this backup can be utilized to regenerate the individual.
The Mindshard technology is not without its complexities. To ensure a seamless and authentic restoration of consciousness, the synaptic pattern must be downloaded into a clone that matches the biological age of the original individual at the time of the capture. Alternatively, the pattern can be integrated into a specially prepared Android Host. The service tiers offered by the Om cater to a variety of needs and budgets. At the high end, there are comprehensive packages that include rapid clone aging - a sort of full-body insurance. On the other end of the spectrum, there are more basic plans offering just the Mindshard backup. Clients can choose to securely store their Mindshard in the Om’s vaults or carry it with them.
This technology has revolutionized the way many races perceive and deal with the finality of death, turning what was once an inevitable end into a mere pause, a temporary setback in the grand narrative of life.