Sentient Humanoid Classifications

Following the “Great Unmooring” and six centuries of interstellar colonization, the concept of a baseline “Homo sapiens” has become obsolete. Advancements in genetic engineering, cybernetic augmentation, and unforeseen evolutionary pressures have led to a diverse spectrum of humanoid life. The following classifications are used for census and sociological purposes, though it is understood that many individuals possess traits from multiple categories.

1. Homo Superior (The Baseline)

• Description: Homo superior are humanoids who do not possess significant artificial enhancements, gene-splicing, or psionic abilities. They represent the closest biological continuation of the original human genome from Old Earth.
• Characteristics: While they lack the specialized abilities of other classifications, they have benefited from generalized medical advancements, some extraordinary individuals achieving lifespans of up to two centuries. It is theorized that their “pure” genome may have latent adaptability, but they are often viewed (both culturally and by themselves) as the baseline standard of humanity. They are statistically becoming one of the rarer forms of humanity as inter-species mixing and augmentation become more common.

2. Homo Diversus (The “Splicers”)

• Description: Homo diversus refers to individuals whose genome has been intentionally modified with genetic material from non-humanoid species. This is typically done to adapt to specific planetary environments or to gain desirable physical traits.
• Characteristics: Splicers exhibit a wide range of physical characteristics. This can include feline traits (enhanced agility, sensory perception), reptilian features (adaptive skin, unique ocular structures), or more exotic adaptations for aquatic or low-gravity environments. Splicing is a common and highly regulated practice, particularly in frontier colonies.
• Notable Individuals: Admiral Messer (feline-spliced), Commander Nysari Thomir (feline-spliced).

3. Homo Synthericus (The “Cyborgs”)

• Description: Homo synthericus defines beings who have integrated significant artificial components into their organic bodies. This classification does not typically include those with simple medical prosthetics, but rather those whose identity and capabilities are fundamentally intertwined with their cybernetic nature like nanotechnology.
• Characteristics: This can range from UAFC pilots with their Cerebral-Vascular Interfaces (CVIs) and complex nanotechnology, to individuals who have replaced entire limbs or organ systems with advanced cybernetics for professional or personal reasons. This classification represents the symbiotic fusion of biology and technology.

The emergence of psionic abilities is the most significant evolutionary divergence in post-Exodus humanity. These individuals are rare, powerful, and subject to intense study and observation by the Unity Accord.

4. Homo Adaptus (The Progenitor)

• Description: Homo adaptus is a unique classification currently containing only two known individuals: the entity known as The Legion and The Seeker. Believed to be the first true telepath to emerge during the era of “The Unmooring,” the Legion is functionally immortal and possesses abilities that are the foundation for all modern psionic theory.
• Characteristics: His unique biology (blue skin, extreme longevity) and his abilities make him a figure of immense power, mystery, and controversy. He is considered the “Adam” of the new humanity.