People and Culture
People are the unique physical traits, cultural values, and social organization that are shaped by their environment.
Last updated
People are the unique physical traits, cultural values, and social organization that are shaped by their environment.
Last updated
The inhabitants of Sekejo have evolved distinctive physical traits and a strong cultural identity, deeply connected to their planet’s rugged landscape and geothermal resources. Rooted in communal values, they prioritize sustainability and cooperation, navigating tensions between local traditions and corporate interests. The social fabric of Sekejo is defined by a decentralized council system, influential trade guilds, and a shared commitment to environmental stewardship, reflecting a society that balances resource management with community well-being.
Sekejoans possess physical adaptations that enable them to thrive in the bright, mineral-rich, and geothermal environment of their planet.
REFLECTIVE SKIN: Sekejoans have skin that appears silvery with a slightly translucent quality, allowing it to reflect sunlight and protect them from the intense brightness of the salt plains. This trait minimizes the risk of sunburn and helps regulate body temperature under harsh sunlight.
NATURAL VISORS: Eyes are naturally narrow, reducing glare and exposure to the bright light reflected off the salt plains. Thick eyebrows provide additional shading, acting as a natural visor to further shield their vision from the sun.
WHITE HAIR: White hair is common among Sekejoans, with a fine and wispy texture that helps dissipate heat. The lack of pigmentation may also serve to minimize heat absorption, which is beneficial in their sunlit environment.
LOW BONE DENSITY: Due to the planet's lower gravity, Sekejoans have a lighter bone density, which contributes to their agile and graceful movement. This adaptation allows them to navigate the rugged, elevated terrain with ease and minimizes physical strain.
HEAT RESISTANT: Sekejoans have a higher tolerance for heat, which is essential given the geothermal activity on their planet. This includes an ability to regulate body temperature effectively and sweat minimally to conserve moisture in the dry environment.
Sekejoan culture is deeply connected to their environment, with a strong emphasis on communal life, art, and reverence for natural geothermal features.
REVERENCE FOR GEOTHERMAL SPRINGS: Thermal springs hold a sacred status in Sekejoan society, where they are often the sites of rituals, festivals, and gatherings, symbolizing resilience and renewal.
ART AND CRAFTSMANSHIP: Utilizing local minerals, Sekejoans create intricate salt sculptures and jewelry, with art forms that celebrate the iridescent beauty of their landscape.
COMMUNAL LIVING: Strong communal ties define their way of life, with geothermal springs serving as central gathering spots for fostering close community bonds.
Sekejo’s society is built on principles of local governance, sustainable resource management, and communal living. The political, economic, and social behaviors reflect their interconnected approach to survival and prosperity in a challenging environment.
LOCAL COUNCILS: Governance is organized around decentralized councils representing different regions. Elected based on expertise in areas like resource management and community leadership, council members hold office for four standard years. The councils are responsible for overseeing local decisions on land use, mining regulations, and environmental protection, with an emphasis on accountability and transparency.
PUBLIC FORUMS AND DECISION-MAKING: Sekejoans value participatory governance and regularly convene public forums where citizens can discuss important issues. These forums allow for open dialogue, giving residents a voice in council decisions. The decision-making process aims for consensus, fostering a sense of unity and cooperation within communities.
TRADE GUILDS: Specialized trade guilds regulate the economy by overseeing key sectors such as mining, geothermal energy, and artisanal crafts. Guilds manage labor distribution, set trade standards, and ensure that resources are sustainably harvested. Membership in a guild is a respected status often inherited through family lines, with young Sekejoans beginning apprenticeships early. Guilds advocate for fair wages, safe working conditions, and equitable resource allocation.
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY: The economy is built on the sustainable use of Sekejo’s mineral wealth. Trade guilds work closely with local councils to monitor resource extraction and enforce regulations that prevent overexploitation. Geothermal energy powers much of the infrastructure, with an emphasis on reducing waste and maximizing resource efficiency to support self-sufficiency wherever possible.
LOCAL INDUSTRY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP: Beyond mining and exporting minerals, Sekejo has a strong tradition of craftsmanship. Artisans create goods from local materials, such as iridescent crystals and volcanic rock, valued for their beauty and utility. These goods are traded with other colonies, but also hold cultural significance within Sekejo, representing the connection between its people and the land.
COLLECTIVE RESPONSIBILITY: Sekejoan society emphasizes mutual support and communal well-being. Community members are expected to contribute to communal projects, help maintain shared spaces and support each other in times of need. This collective responsibility strengthens social bonds and fosters pride in the shared heritage of the community.
FAMILY AND KINSHIP: Family units are central to Sekejoan society, extending beyond immediate relatives to include guild affiliations and close friends. Extended families often live in proximity, with many family members working within the same trade guild. Elders are highly respected and frequently serve as informal advisors within families and to local councils.
CULTURAL EVENTS AND TRADITIONS: Festivals celebrating geothermal springs and natural landmarks are integral to Sekejoan life, reinforcing cultural bonds. These events typically feature storytelling, music, and dance, with each region bringing its own unique traditions. Celebrations are inclusive and accessible to all, underscoring the community’s commitment to collective joy and togetherness.
EDUCATION AND KNOWLEDGE SHARING: Education is a priority, focusing on practical skills in environmental science, sustainable resource management, and local industries. Knowledge is passed down through apprenticeships and mentorships, ensuring that each generation learns to value and protect their resources. This system fosters a close connection to the environment and a strong cultural respect for natural resources.