Body Mods
Overview
Body modifications, or body mods, encompass biological and technological enhancements designed to alter appearance, physiology, or capability. Body mods are pervasive across the Continuums universes, with each universe contributing unique cultural and functional elements. From Apokalyptika’s survival-focused grafts to Kaos’s corporate-engineered enhancements, body mods have evolved far beyond their origins in cosmetic surgery.
Categories
Cosmetic Modifications
Skin Enhancements: Bioluminescent skin in Galaxa for fashion and function. Chrome and metallic sheens popular among Kaos’s corporate aristocracy. Proportional Augmentation:
- Lekaran females in Galaxa excel in dermal implants and aesthetic mods for cultural diplomacy.
- Cultural Tattoos: In Apokalyptika, radioactive ink tattoos symbolize survival and status.
Functional Modifications
Hormonal Regulation: Enhancements to boost endurance and control stress in battle. Organ Augmentation:
- Kaos’s adaptive glands for heightened reflexes.
- Alien organ integration in Galaxa for enhanced abilities.
- Neurological Mods: Brain enhancements for faster learning and psionic development.
Adaptive Modifications
Environmental Grafts:
- Gills and thermal resistance for aquatic or extreme climates in Galaxa and Apokalyptika.
- Extra Organs: Additional hearts and lungs for endurance in survival scenarios.
Cultural and Ethical Perspectives
Body mods carry significant meaning depending on the universe:
- Apokalyptika: Body mods are utilitarian, often crude but vital for survival in a hostile world.
- Kaos: They symbolize corporate dominance and personal ambition, with perfection often prioritized over functionality.
- Galaxa: A balance between function and artistry, where mods often reflect a species’ cultural or spiritual ideals.
Trivia
- Lekaran Body Mods: Known for their elegant, non-invasive techniques, Lekarans use body mods to enhance beauty and adaptability when interacting with other species.
- Psionic body mods are uniquely tailored in Galaxa, where non-psionic gifted species implant brain glands and parts of psionic gift species brains.
- Apokalyptika scavengers blend body mods with cyberware, leading to unpredictable but creative results.