Hivism

## Overview

Hivism is the native religion of the Xian, an insectoid species known for their luxurious and often gaudy lifestyle. Although originally based on ancient cultural and biological practices involving the use of queens for breeding, the practice is now more of a burdensome political necessity rather than a core belief for many Xian.

## Background and History

Hivism originated on the Xian homeworld as a religion centered around the concept of a Hive system, where queens held a central role in the breeding process, and were—in fact—the only ones capable of breeding. The religion heavily influenced the Xian society and contributed to their once-strong sense of community and collective identity. As the Xian evolved and gained access to advanced technology through their involvement in the Mission, the traditional breeding practices became obsolete, and the role of the queens diminished.

But when the Soran Order sought to choose a "correct" religion for the Xian in -2049C, they were faced with a unique challenge. Hivism was the only spiritual practice with any kind of significant cultural presence, even though it wasn't a strong one. As Hivism was practically the only religion the Xian had, the Soran Order had no choice but to pick it. This decision was not necessarily based on the religion's compatibility with the Xian's current cultural or societal needs.

## Modern Practice and Beliefs

Hivism in its contemporary form continues to center around the Hive system. Technically, female adherents who are not queens should not breed, and male adherents should breed with no one except a queen. The religion imposes strict rules on the Xian in terms of romance, breeding, and social interactions, but many Xian have chosen to navigate these restrictions by engaging in secret romantic relationships outside of the Hive system.

It's important to note that there are no laws governing religious belief in the Mission. Technically, n sentient is allowed to believe and practice whatever religion (or lack thereof) they wish, but many Xian feel a strong pressure to practice Hivism to show their deference to the Sora and to the Soran Order. Created Sora have often encouraged Xian friends to abandon Hivism and to follow their own hearts and consciences, but this proves to be a difficult task for many Xian.

As Hivism has evolved and adapted to the political climate, many Xian no longer hold strong religious beliefs, and some even lean towards Created beliefs or secretly express interest in other faiths. However, when confronted, many Xian will often reaffirm their allegiance to Hivism as the "correct" religion for their species.

## Impact on the Xian and Galactic Community

Critics of the Soran Order, especially among Created Sora, allege that Hivism has done much more harm than good for the Xian. Many Xian wish to have "traditional" families—traditional according to most species in the galactic scene—but feel they cannot because they must outwardly serve Hivism. Many Xian wish to be romantically involved with one another or with members of other species, but are reluctant to do so openly for fear of appearing uncommitted to the Sora and the Soran Order. This, according to critics, has crippled Xian society, growth, and development. Many argue that Hivism should have been left to dwindle into the past once the tech was developed that no longer necessitated a queen. Some Xian have "secret" families and children bred from non-Queens, these children are known, sometimes derisively, as "hiveless."