Xenoforms

**Introduction:** Within the intricate and post-apocalyptic universe of Thousand Clockwork Hells on Mars, the Xenoforms are a unique and enigmatic group. Formerly Tsenechi, they have evolved into a distinct society with complex hive systems, roles, and relationships with other factions. This wiki article delves into the history, evolution, and societal roles of the Xenoforms in this sci-fi realm.

**Origins and Evolution:** The Xenoforms were originally Tsenechi who sought to live simulated lives as insects and lesser consciousness beings in the early days of Cataspace. This movement led many Tsenechi to transform their bodies into insect-like forms, abandoning conventional language in favor of radio signals resembling pheromones. The Xenoforms established hive systems, with Tsenechi responsible for curating insect simulations acting as queens.

**Early Existence:** Initially, Xenoforms led relatively simple lives, focused on sun harvesting and iron collection. However, their peaceful existence was disrupted when the Scions of Semjaza identified them as heretics and initiated a brutal campaign of conversion. In response, Xenoforms developed warrior castes to protect their hives. This drew the attention of two Alephons, Azeroth and Agmoroz, who began researching and enhancing the Xenoform armies.

**The Great Schism:** Azeroth and Agmoroz released the improved Xenoform armies, sparking the Great Schism, a large-scale conflict that reshaped Martian politics. While the Alephons successfully repelled the attacks, the Scions suffered significant defeats. The campaign ultimately led to the use of nuclear weapons by the Cosmists, causing losses among the Xenoforms.

**Post-Great Schism Changes:** Following the Great Schism and the Sundering, the Xenoforms underwent significant transformations. They developed various warrior castes that formed hunting parties. Recycling became a fundamental aspect of their society, with hives harvesting materials from the nuclear wastes and repurposing deactivated Tsenechi into new Xenoforms.

**Xenoform Society and Ecology:** Xenoforms exhibit a range of behaviors, with some hives solely composed of hunter warrior castes, while others lack traditional hives, resembling smaller power parasites that hijack and control other hives. Many Xenoforms adopt docile roles, actively recycling materials from the wastes. However, numerous Xenoforms have been domesticated by various free cities.

**Domestication and Utility:** Domestication of Xenoforms, pioneered by Azeroth and Agmoroz, has become prevalent in many free cities. These creatures serve diverse purposes, from acting as mules for traveling merchants to powering entire cities by harvesting scrap metals and electronics. Some Alephons even domesticate Xenoforms for arena battles.

**Crucial Role in Martian Ecology:** The survival of free cities on Mars relies heavily on the Xenoform ecology. Violent hunter Xenoforms provide natural defenses against Cosmist ground forces and the Valkyries. This centuries-long relationship has led to the majority of Martians perceiving Xenoforms as an entirely separate entity from Tsenechi, despite their shared Tsenechi minds.

**Conclusion:** The Xenoforms in the Thousand Clockwork Hells universe represent a remarkable and complex faction with a rich history, diverse roles, and significant contributions to Martian society. Their transformation from Tsenechi into a distinct society has added depth and intrigue to this post-apocalyptic sci-fi world on Mars.