The Hollowed

The Hollowed

"Vacuumanis cavus — a race descended from the failed experiments of an ancient civilization attempting to harness the biology of the Warden."

The Hollowed are a blind, subterranean race navigating primarily through echolocation, possessing Warden characteristics, unique click-signature identities, and an acoustically optimized deep-dark culture.

Physiology and Classification Physical variation among the Hollowed is extensive, built upon the shared root Tskal, meaning marked or touched. Tskalvo refers to individuals with extensive sculk coverage, exposed bone, and horn structures resembling a Warden. Tskalen represents a mixed intermediate and is the most common classification. Tskalir refers to individuals retaining human-like skin with negligible sculk markings. These classifications carry no social rank. The majority are blind from birth, and a considerable number are born without eyes altogether. Stillbirths and physical irregularities occur at a much higher rate, reflecting their artificial origin. Senses and Communication Echolocation allows the Hollowed to perceive outlines and movement through active vocalized clicks. Pallesthesia provides passive vibration detection. Individual recognition relies primarily on click-signatures—unique vocal patterns comparable to fingerprints. Spoken language can be projected in narrow, targeted cones, and compressed sensory impressions can be transmitted via click-song. Culture and Society The Hollowed practice communal child-rearing and maintain strict acoustic taboos, such as avoiding unannounced physical contact or direct echolocation toward another's face. They use tactile scripts and stone resonance tablets for record-keeping. Post-mortem traditions involve sounding the deceased's vocalization tablet and utilizing remains for tools, clothing, and architecture.

Lifespan The Hollowed have a lifespan of 150 to 200 years. Abilities Physical prowess Their bodies are sturdy and less prone to injuries, though their physical strength varies by specialization. Warriors possess strong sonic capabilities and are deployed strictly for defense. Mental prowess There is little to no difference between a Hollowed’s cognition and that of a human. Magical prowess The magical abilities of the Hollowed are currently unknown, as they do not present any outwardly.

Characters

Hollowed Characters can be found here: Hollowed Characters

Author

HotDogDobby