Protogen Guide

This comprehensive guide covers the canon history, anatomy and ability of the
Protogen species. Further on this page you can find the creator's guide and Protogen
FAQ.

What is a Protogen?
Pronunciation: /'prəʊtəʊˌdʒen/ | 'Prow-toe-jen'

Protogen are a cyborg Alien species that are found in Zenith's Outer Reach (ZOR), a
mammalian based creature created artificially for space & planetary exploration.
Protogen vary depending on the 'DNA infusion' levels allowing Protogen to have an
array of features & functions to help serve their purpose.

Core features of a Protogen include a visor display face, artificial chest & hip region,
biological ears and a mix of artificial/Biological limbs. These are the most
distinguishable features to identify a Protogen.
DNA Origin & Species History
The Protogen species was created by a highly advanced alien race known as
the Primogenitors or ‘Creators’. The Creators sought to create a cybernetic
fusion lifeform which would replace areas of the AI industry that benefited from
having the judgments and situational awareness of a biological being. The
civilisation occupies Esmire 4, Oris, and Vehtas within their solar system.
The original DNA source of the Protogen was sampled from a primordial alien
species known as Dyniretar which was discovered in Cycle 10 on planet
Lyranium within the Reddus Nebula. The DNA source allowed the Creators to
bioengineer the perfect ‘blank’ lifeform ready for cybernetic enhancements and
consciousness implant. Records of this species' original appearance are almost
non-existent due to heavy modification to the DNA source and access to
samples are highly regulated by Primogenitor scientists.

Protogen were designed to uniquely fit their environment and task perfectly,
making them extremely diverse in use. This granted a fair physiological range of
protogen forms, some easier to maintain or control than others. Depending on
their functional or physical form the Protogen will be assigned a rarity class
(common, uncommon and rare) which impacts the amount of Arcaites that
need to be implanted.
To keep the species as subservient and as compliant as AI, Project ARC (ARC -
Artificial Remote Control) was initiated. Primogenitor scientists infused
microcrystalline ‘Arcaites’ into the cerebral fluid of the Protogen during
development, allowing total mind control over the specimen. This made
Protogen obedient to follow tasks and minimize free thinking; many ethical
issues started to develop around the use of Arcaites once research was
released.

Further mutations and the addition of complex features became subjected to

Arcaite instabilities. The creators wanted to create an elite class of Protogen
capable of complex abilities such as flight, nanite manipulation, and multiple
limb ranges, but these features often overloaded their control systems, causing
Arcaites to short out. These elite Protogen or ‘RARES’ were considered to be
very dangerous as they often became uncontrollable or rogue.
Over time, demand for Protogen production increased significantly within many
industries. Construction, labor, military, and old models were often abandoned
or disposed of. Protogen with Arcaite instabilities, RAREs, or with no needed
purpose became victim to eradication, which led to the formation of rebellion
groups which fought for liberation. Some of these discarded Protogen relocated
to one of Esmire’s moons to form their own colonies.

The rise of the Protogen rebellion and the ethical use of Project ARC had led to
a segregation within the Primogentors' Empire. Two factions rose from the
turmoil known as the Syantika and the Nehixim. The Syantika wish for a
peaceful coexistence with their creation while Nehixim wish to reconfigure or
terminate the remaining ‘defective’ Protogen.

While turbulence between the factions continues, the Protogen species has
founded their own small society on E1 (1 of 3 moons of Esmire). The moon was
terraformed and has become the capital homeworld to the Protogen, where they
have thrived and advanced their own knowledge and capabilities with Arcai
power. Mutual agreements made between the Protogen and the Syantika has
led to a mostly peaceful symbiotic relationship with trading and resources.
Nehixim faction still holds majority over all Protogen production facilities and
continues to improve Project ARC.

​General Core Features / Makeup of Protogen

- Short Round Edged Visor
- Biological Ears
- Protective Chest Plate (Exoskeleton)
- Particle Visor (Open/Closes)
- Biomechanical Modular Limbs
- 40% Artificial (Biomechanical)
- Upright Position / Bipedal
- Mammal Behaviorism
- Active Digestive tract
- Cheek accent plate with ridge
Age, Mass, & Height Averages
Since Protogen are able to continuously upgrade parts there is no particular age limit,
the limiting factor will be the Protogen's ability to access the necessary upgrades in
order to continue function. Organ transplant and artificial procedures can help a
Protogen to continue to operate at fully functional capacity. Failure to replace old
organic or mechanical parts may cause the Protogen to lose function, or worst case
scenario, death. The standard species height for Protogen is 120 - 180 cm (Roughly 4
to 6 ft) with a mass range of 40 kg to 200 kg (88 lbm to 440 lbm). Mass will vary on
biological make-up. Some models were also made in extremely unusual sizes. This
included a model range known as 'Micro-gens' and 'Colossal Protogen'. These models
allowed Protogen to range from 10 cm tall to 10m. These size specifics made it hard to
balance the right amount of ARC Nanites and thus these models faced many Nanite
instabilities.

Colossal Protogen - 200 cm and above | Microgen - 90 cm and below

The Visor
The visor on a Protogen is made out of millions of small particles known as 'nanites'.
These nanites act as a shield/barrier between the outside world and the internals of the
Protogen's visor. Nanites are able to move freely and reassemble their position, this
allows a Protogen to open and close their mouth. When eating, a gap between the face
and esophagus is made to allow nutrients to be digested. The visor itself cannot be
removed as the internal barrier is holding essential blood & fluid. If cracked or
damaged, the visor will have an almost immune system-like response and cluster to
protect the internal barrier. Protogen may lose nanites through blunt force trauma, this
may lead to cracks and gaps in the outer shell layer, but the internal layer will always be
protected. If the internal layer of nanites is compromised, then it will usually lead to
permanent damage and eventually death. Vision is artificially enhanced by the visor
allowing the Protogen to have visual display overlays, thermal and other alternative
optical abilities. The visor also allows scents to penetrate through a special set of
Nanite receptors which carry the information to the brain. Nanites are not bound to any
particular coloration or density, only that they have an outer and internal set to form
proper functionality. As a greater precaution and an optical upgrade, some Protogen
have been fitted with an additional flip down visor, which adds an extra layer of
protection and functionality. This add-on is removable and completely optional.
'Plug & Play' Limb System
The mechanical chest and lower torso of a Protogen allows the limbs to work in an
adapter-like fashion. This is the plug and play limb system. Limbs attach to the socket
area with special magnetic nanites, these particles allow a solid connection as well as
transmitting neural data between the limb and brain of the Protogen. Protogen are able
to remove and join new, or alternative limbs, to the main body. This also allows the
Protogen to easily remove a critically damaged part, or change a part to better suit the
current environment.

Standard limb count is: 2 arms, 2 legs and 1 tail.

​ his allows the Protogen to fit the most desired function. Primogenitor researchers
T
found Arcaite instability issues when more limbs, or complex systems such as flight,
were introduced. This put heavy restrictions on the production of complex models as
they served a higher chance of becoming rogue.

Nanite Functionality
Nanites play a large role in Protogen functionality. Many different types of nanites have
been modified to serve particular roles and purposes in the bodily function of Protogen.
The two main functions that nanites serve in all Protogen is visor (functional and
protective layers) and limb connectivity.
- Nanites range in size from 20,000 to 100,000 nanometers (Not individually visible with
the naked eye) Their name comes from the size range they sit within.

​- Nanites can be replenished / replace if damaged

- Allow nutrient and nerve information to be transferred between the body and limb
(through plug and play) / blood, nerve control, etc.

- Magnetic nanites hold limbs in place

-​ Nanites also allow control on bodily hormones and chemicals allowing the physical
state to cope under various conditions. (Adrenaline boost, serotonin under injury etc)

Some Protogen are also capable of complex nanite functionality, a feature only found in
RARE Protogen. Some of these abilities include the ability to mass manipulate nanites
into physical shields, barriers, and even as far as 'duplicate self' consisting purely of
nanites. There is little Primogenitor research on these complex features as they are
very uncommon occurrences.

Growth Process
All Protogen are created within the production facilities located on ESMIRE 4. Protogen
are artificially inseminated under lab conditions and grown in artificial tank systems
that simulate womb-like conditions. The growth process takes a total of 21 days on
average and an additional 14 days of artificial synchronization and training.
Each Protogen's DNA has been altered and configured to specific requirements. This
allows the Protogen to grow to the exact form that is needed. Once optimal size and
full development has been complete, artificial transplants and treatments add all
cybernetic enhancements required. The Protogen is also placed in a specialized med
pod called a 'Synch Pod' allowing time for the artificial and biological parts to merge. All
of this is done before the Protogen is 'born', or has experienced conscious reality.

Once they are physically complete, the last stage is brain monitoring and data
imprinting. Protogen are administered with a direct neural input of basic functionality,
purpose, and training. This data impression allows the Protogen to be fully functional at
the time of first awakening. Arcaite levels and functionality is monitored and adjusted
over the remaining training days.

Protogen are then put through training programs in VR chambers to further enhance
their physical and mental capabilities. Upon full completion, and if the Protogen has
shown adequate Arcaite synchronization, the Protogen is transported from the
production facility.
DNA Infusion, Rarity Classes & Traits

What is DNA Infusion?

DNA Infusion allows Protogen to grow in a variety of different aesthetics and functions.
Infusion is what makes each Protogen an individual. However, the level and complexity
of infusion will raise or lower the rarity of the protogen. These traits are broken into 3
different categories: Common, Uncommon, and Rare. The purpose of the rarity system
is to help hold a species standard, and what features apply to Protogen.

Common
Common Traits are features and aesthetics that all base Protogen have access to.
Common Protogen have the least amount of DNA Infusion and are seen as the species
standard. Common Protogen are generally subordinate to their Creators as their
disposition and nature has been made to fit the needs of Primogenitors.

Uncommon
Uncommon traits are features and aesthetics that are more complex but are still
accessible to all. DNA Infusion level sits as high as 50%, allowing half of the Protogen's
genetic data to be altered with varying species. Uncommon Protogen are more
free-willed and are more likely to rebel against their Creators.
Rare
Rare traits are features and aesthetics that are extremely complex or do not fit within
the species standards. The DNA Infusion rate is generally 50% or higher, allowing the
Protogen to access non-conventional features such as full flight, multiple limb sockets,
and complex nanite functions. Rare Protogen are very few in number as Primogenitors
experienced numerous rebellious attributes and nanite instabilities in Protogen once
the infusion level reached 50%.

Rare Traits are not publicly accessible, but can be purchased in a few different ways
(i.e. community events, adoptables, custom slots, MYO Submission forms, etc). The
purpose of this restriction is to uphold the species standard design and lore, but still
allowing the option to obtain these very unique features.

​Roles / Professions / Purpose

Protogen are created to fit a wide variety of purposes, from companionship to
professional occupations. They are custom fit to their purpose. Many common
occupations for Protogen include:
- Medical Response / Assistant
- Defense / Combat
- Researcher / Scientist
- Security / Data Miner
- Construction - Arcai Technician
- Pilot / Vehicle Operator

Protogen are also found outside these fields, including no particular function, purpose,
or assignment.

​Technical Issues / Viruses / Growth Defects

Technical issues
​ oth cyborg variants have been known to show occasional technical issues. These
B
include, but are not limited to: power conversion failure, radiation damage from extreme
conditions, ‘Jumpy robab syndrome’ or JRS, and cosmic dust build up. Protogen visors
are also prone to losing nanites from blunt force or extreme magnetism resulting in
cracked visors. Limb loss is uncommon, but does not fully debilitate the Protogen as
replacements are an accessible option.

JRS - This is a rare condition where the internal nanite cells fall into an on/off loop for a
short period of time. This causes the whole system to shut down and restart rapidly
causing the Protogen to 'jump' or jolt around momentarily. This (surprisingly) does not
cause much harm to the Protogen, but can be dangerous to individuals within close
proximity. The correct term for JRS is actually known as Nanite Restart Syndrome but
'Jumpy robab' became a more common nickname to match the visual associated. ​

Viruses & Hacks

Viruses and hacking have lessened since the production of Primagen units. Their
signals run on a variety of complex frequencies, which are invisible to most foreign
interceptors. Virus symptoms and signs include (but are not limited to) uncontrollable
or violent glitching, internal electrical blackouts, or limb incompatibility.

Growth Defects
​ ue to the heavy observation of growth conditions and the meticulous process of
D
selecting high quality genes, growth defects are quite rare. Occasionally small gene
deficiencies and defects slip through the carefully monitored system, as they do not
affect the function of the Protogen directly. These can include, but are not limited to:

- Coat length inconsistencies (Patchy fur, long fur, short fur)

- Abnormal toe/finger count (Lengths / shapes / make-up)
- Ear abnormalities (Missing structure/ Missing Scapha )
- Muscle hypertrophy / Muscular hypoplasia (Irregular Muscle Mass)

Creating Your Own Protogen

Before creating your own Protogen, please make sure to read the guides available to
ensure your design fits within the species general appearance. Fictional Species in the
Art & Furry Fandom are founded by their unique design, characteristics, and lore. Which
is why a comprehensive guide has been made for those interested in the beings &
creatures within ZOR. There is also an FAQ located further down on this page. All up to
date sources can be found in The Official ZOR Link Hub.
Protogen are free to make for recreational use or adoptable
character sale!
If you have an existing character, you are free to make a Protogen form, or an entirely
new character from scratch! Both pay-to-use & free line-art bases are available within
the community for those less confident with art. Alternatively, you can commission an
artist of your choosing for a reference sheet. You are also able to sell / trade Protogen
to other community members.

What are the minimum requirements for a Protogen?

The minimum requirements for a Protogen are: the visor display face, Armor: Torso
plate, groin, hip plate and mechanical thighs (Thick or slim) (Rib cage must be
covered/protected.), biological ears,Limbs: At least 3 limbs (4 limb sockets + 1 tail
socket)(One can be completely missing) - Replacements ok! Artificial/biological. To be
classed as a Protogen, the design must contain these core features to be identified as a
part of the species. Please make sure to check all the information available on this
page!

A couple of things to remember when creating your Protogen:

- Does the design meet the species standard?
- Purpose (What purpose does your Protogen serve? It can be purely recreational!)
- Rarity Traits (What kind of traits do you have? Only rare traits are restricted from free
use.)
​- Remember to have fun, don't be afraid to ask questions, and think outside the box!

Up to the Artist / Protogen Owner

Your design is purely up to you, so long as it still fits within the species general
appearance and guidelines. So please feel free to play around with armor shapes,
biological limits, and accessories to the fullest! For some ideas, what are your favorite
environments? Consider basing your Protogen’s traits on what would be needed to
survive in that terrain!

You are also free to add additional equipment, clothes, accessories, etc..
Outside of the design, you are also free to give your Protogen its own personality &
story. Your Protogen is able to exist in its own crafted universe or existing one and does
not have to follow ZOR lore.

Some more things besides design that are totally up to the artist / owner include:
● Backstory / Character story / Personality & characteristics
● Age / Gender / Name / Feature or function details

Aesthetic Variants / Examples

Visor Shapes
Protogen have a short visor usually with rounded edges. Here are some standard
examples of visors:
Visors can deviate slightly from the main shapes below (more/less curve on edges
etc.) Only off-limit aesthetic being the longer boxy Primagen shape and surrounding
armor.

Horns / Spikes
Protogen can have horns of almost any shape and size, this is considered an
uncommon and above trait. Protogen can also have spikes anywhere on the body as
well as some small floating hard light kind. There is no specific limit or count for spikes
/ horns.

The only RARE feature is floating Horns (Solid or hard light). This is a very sacred
symbol of high Arcai power and is a restricted feature to coincide with ZOR lore.
​Ear Examples
Ears can be a variety of different shapes and sizes. There is only one limitation and that
is the ears need to be biological. Common Protogen are allowed up to one set of ears,
Uncommon can have up to two sets. They do not need to be furred and can have a
variety of accessories. Here are a few examples: Ears can vary outside the designs
below, these are only a few examples. The only limits are mechanical ears (Primagen
only) & 3 ear sets for Rares.
Tail Examples
Tails can have a large range of shape / size & function. Please be creative as possible,
you can have as little or as much mechanical parts for your tail. Here are some
examples: Tails can vary outside the designs below, this is only a few examples.
Common & uncommon Protogen are limited to 1 tail present on the design, but are
allowed to swap out to an infinite amount of designs with the 'plug & play' system.
Armour Shapes / Requirements
Armor shapes can be any practical shape. Extra armor such as 'flip down visors',
gauntlets, Arm plates, leg/feet gear, tail armor is all optional. Protogen only require the
minimum armor below:
● Chest Plate (Must cover the whole of the ribcage, any Shape)
● Groin Plate (Any Shape)
● Thigh Plates (Must cover the whole of the thigh, any Shape)

Cheek Plate and shoulder plates are optional, but is highly recommended as its a very
defining feature of the species. Alternatives for screens can be any sort of plate or
'accent' on the cheek. Removal of the chest, groin or thigh plate is considered
non-canon.
Some mechanical combinations are restricted to RARE such Head+ Chest Panel
combination. The only feature that is totally restricted from Protogen, regardless of
rarity, is the Primagen leg design (also referred to as mechanical raptor design) This is
because it is a Primagen only feature.
Hand / Feet Examples + Limb Restrictions + Additional
Mechanics
Protogen can have a variety of hand / feet shapes & sizes. The most common hand
shape is a clawed paw of 4 to 5 digits, but this is only the species standard. Protogen
have 2 arms, 2 legs, and 1 tail as standard. Any more limbs is considered a Rare Trait.
Protogen can have either mechanical, biological, or holographic/hard light hands and
feet. Both arms, legs or tail can be of either make up. (All limbs can be fully biological,
artificial, or a mix)

Protogen can also have some additional mechanical extras such as a small set of
mechanical 'Helper' arms/hands that may only extend to half the length of a
proportional arm, tool backpacks, or weapon extensions fitted to the back / arms / legs.
These are available at the uncommon rarity.

The arms, legs and tail can be 'floating' or not completely joint to the body, this is an
uncommon trait (hard light / holographic limbs qualify as 'floating limbs'). Hands/Feet
can vary outside the designs below, this is only a few examples. Only limits are
mechanical raptor legs (Primagen only trait).
Small Non Function Wings & Jet-pack Propulsion
Small non-functional (or decorative) wings are permitted for uncommon Protogen. This
also includes 'gliding' aids such as a membrane-like attachment from the arm to the
body. Jetpack propulsion is permitted, but is also limited to short function use & size
restrictions. Small decorative/chibi wings must be no larger than the torso of a
Protogen.

Fully Functional Wings (FF Wings) are a Rare trait. They can have a wide variety of
designs from 'hard light' materials to biological. These wings are medium to large sized
for realistic functionality.
 Wings Rare Trait - Fully Functional Sized Wings

Sizing / Colossal Protogen / Micro Protogen

The standard species height for Protogen is 120 - 180 cm (Roughly 4 to 6 ft) with a
mass range of 40 kg to 200 kg (88 oz to 440 oz). The general common range is
between 90 cm at the smallest, and 200 cm at the tallest. Any Protogen above that is
considered a colossal Protogen, and anything below is considered a Micro Protogen.
Micro and Colossal Protogen are an uncommon trait, but do keep in mind that the size
you pick must still be realistic to an extent! Extremely unrealistic sized Protogen (Cell /
Germ Sized | Planet / Galaxy Sized, Anything Unrealistic, Extreme Macro / Micro etc)
are non-canon to the Protogen species.

Limitations
Protogen have a few limitations that restrict some features from being used within the
species official communities, we divide these into two sections, non-canon and
restricted. Non canon designs simply do not work within the lore set in the Zenith’s
Outer Reach Universe, and to keep the species as a coherent singular species we ask
that you don't break these design rules within our official hubs. We DO NOT moderate
non canon designs outside of our official hubs under any circumstance.
Restricted traits on the other hand are more about respect for Cool Koinu as the creator
of the species as well as other original species creators within the furry community. We
also don't moderate those outside of our official hubs, but we kindly ask that you refrain
from breaking these more than the non-canon traits.

Non-Canon
● Feral or quadruped Protogen (On all fours)
● Removal of the chest or groin plate
● Biological legs (Missing thigh armor)
● Tail Mouths / Belly Mouths ( Or limbs that are a separate entity)
● Zombie / Undead (Not alive - this does not include ‘necromancer’ arcai abilities
which is canon)
● Mermaid / Naga / Snake like lower half
● Extremely unrealistic sized Protogen: Cell / germ sized | Planet / galaxy sized,
anything unrealistic (Extreme macro / micro etc)

Restricted
● Primagen Traits (Artificial ears, raptor feet / mechanical leg combo, no chest or
groin plating - very specific design)
● Lack of limbs entirely (Would render Protogen useless)
● Lack of head
● Mixed fandom species (Hybrids of existing fandom species - Wicker beasts,
Avali, Sergal, Manokit for example)

Protogen FAQ
This FAQ section covers all Protogen related topics, if you have a question that is not
covered in the list please go to our Discord Server, in which we have a Q&A chat ZOR
Link Hub.

What is an open species? Why are Protogen an open species?

Open species are unique fictional species that have been created by independent
artists. The term 'open' refers to the ability of public use and access meaning the
species can be freely created and used. While publicly available these species still
usually follow a set of anatomical rules and lore that help it be identifiable much like
animals in real life. Protogen are an open species to allow free creation of creatures
from ZOR, allowing people to make their own stones and characters based in/off the
universe.

Can I make my own Protogen?

Yes you are able to make your very own Protogen! Common & uncommon Protogen
have no restrictions on the amount you can own. Please just make sure to follow the
creation guide!

Individual owners can own up to a maximum of 8 individual RARE designs to

discourage character hoarding.

Can I feature Protogen in my artwork, story, book, game, product,

etc?
Public use/features of Protogen in artwork, media, books, games etc is fine with no
royalties or specific permission required. A royalty would only be arranged if the works
by Cool Koinu are being resold / used for profit. You retain all rights to your
artwork/product and by featuring Protogen you have agreed to the community creation
guidelines.

Primagens (Closed sister species to Protogen) do require special permission to use

outside of fan-art, as the species has restricted use.

Why are RARE Traits restricted?

RARE traits are restricted as these are features that were not meant to be heavily
associated with the species. From a lore standpoint, Protogen were designed to be
subservient bi-pedal mammals. The ability to fly would have been a disadvantage for
Primogenitors. The other aspect is that these features are also used by many other
open/closed species groups, and by limiting the species to a specific set of physical
traits the species maintains their aesthetic.

We understand that these features are in demand and sought for, which is why we try to
offer Make Your Own (MYO) slots in multiple ways such as direct sale and event prizes!
How can I get my own Rare Protogen?
There are a few ways for obtaining a Rare Protogen for official use in our
community:
● You can win an event that lists a Rare Make Your Own (MYO) as a prize.
● We host a bi-yearly raffle which you can enter by joining in our events.
More info can be found here: The Bi Yearly Raffle Info.
● Buying a MYO slot when it is available for purchase (Flat price 300$,
must be 18+ as per Cool Koinu's T.O.S).
● Buying an official Rare that is being sold by another member.
● Winning an auction for a premade Rare (These can only be held in the
official Action chat in the official ZOR Discord server, must be 18+ as per
Cool Koinu's T.O.S).

Please note that all raffles and events are only held in the official ZOR Discord
server by staff! If you are ever unsure about a Rare Protogen for sale, you can
ask a moderator for the official ownership details.

Can I make a 'non-canon' Protogen?

You are free to make a Protogen which does not follow any of the original lore's
backstory or universe physics. This Protogen should still fit within the species design
and rarity system, but does not have to physically function in reality/ZOR Universe. We
simply do not moderate the species outside of our official social hubs, and we ask NO
ONE to moderate on our behalf. Koinu and the Staff Team completely condemn any
sort of ‘white-knighting’ or other methods of harassment towards non-canon or
unofficial designs, and such actions may get you banned from the community.

Examples of non-canon:
● A Protogen that can remove the chest piece / crotch plating.
● A Protogen that is made out of an inanimate substance, (Jelly, plush, food,
elemental, etc.)
● A zombie, undead, or ghost Protogen
● A Protogen shapeshifter/Protogen form.

Rules that still need to be taken into consideration:

The rarity traits (An unofficial RARE Protogen is not accepted, as this still portraying
restricted features) and the restricted traits (Primagen Traits, Mixed fandom species
ect…)
We have a dedicated chat for non-canon Protogen within our Discord server. If
you wish to make a non-canon Protogen, you can post it there. In the other
chats on that server we request that you make sure your design fits within our
species standards before posting, thank you.

What if I disagree with the design rules?

The design rules have been structured to make sure that Protogen are identifiable
within the open/closed species community like other cyborg characters and species. If
you disagree with the design limitations or species rules, please consider utilizing the
spaces provided for non-canon and unofficial characters.

Is NSFW/18+ artwork and media acceptable?

NSFW/Not Safe for Work or 18+ artwork and media featuring Protogen is fine. We do
not post any NSFW pieces within our community hubs as they are used by people of all
ages, please make sure to only post this content where permitted.
(FurAffinity/Twitter/Art sites/places that accommodate adult content.)

What do Protogen run on? What Power can they use?

Protogen have an active digestive tract which allows them to consume food/Nutrients
for energy. The food enters the stomach then processes through an advanced artificial
organ which stores some of the power created from broken energy molecules. This
energy is then converted into electricity which powers the artificial parts, and the
remaining energy consumed by food is used to support the remaining biological organs
and cell production.

While uncommon, Protogen can also use Arcai energy to operate. A Protogen can go
many years without food and run solely on electricity, Arcai or other alternative energy
sources but it is not recommended as the biological parts will lack the needed
nutrients. The Protogen will need to consume proper nutrients to maintain full
biological function.

Do Protogen dispose of waste / Poop?

Protogen's were designed to be efficient, natural waste removal is a timely process so a
vaporization method was implemented to increase productivity. The waste is vaporized
internally through a special artificial organ and a residual gas is very sparingly released
(to not come out as a noticeable smell). So they do not poop but I guess it could be
considered a fart? (This includes all waste types.)

What can a Protogen visor show?

A Protogen’s visor can show any image you’d like! The Visor’s outer nanite shell has the
ability to light up in any color just like a computer or TV screen, thus they can display
anything they would like. Anything the visor shows doesn’t relate to any rarity.

What's under a Protogen's visor?

Underneath the visor of a Protogen you'll find the original face structure
submerged in a cybernetic fluid. all holes in the face have been blocked and
mechanically modified to not interfere with the visor’s nanites. The mechanical
enhancements shown in the example can vary in design however generally the
augmentations are made to fit with the brain alongside the entire front of the
face, nose and eyes. Their lower jaw has been completely removed to make way
for the visor to be used as the external lower jaw.

Do Protogen need Sleep?

Protogen do not require sleep but intermittent breaks and restarts allow time for
firmware updates. A Protogen can go into a hibernation mode if needed (In case of
emergency or inactive use).
Can Protogen feel emotions?
Protogen can feel any normal emotions just like you. The Arcaits in their brain
only keep them subservient to their owner, it doesn’t reduce any other normal
brain functions. But over all, your Protogen’s personality and emotional state is
completely up to you as the owner!

How does Arcai work?

We have specific documents to describe how Arcai works;
The Fundamentals of Arcai
The Religion and Society of Arcai

Do Protogen smell and taste?

Yes, Protogen are able to detect smells through specialized nanites that have smell
receptors. These carry the scent information to the brain much like in humans or
animals. Protogen are able to taste but that ability is limited as their taste receptors are
fewer in number. Their ability to taste is about half as good as that of a human.

What are Protogen Firmware Updates for?

These digital updates are accessible through the Proto neural net and allow Protogen
to download updates for their artificial components. These updates are usually made
by the Syantika faction to better help the Protogen species and offer exchangeable
trade for their services.

How do Protogen Breathe?

Protogen do require oxygen to survive but can adjust to the levels in the provided
environment. Protogen breathe through the visor as nanites carry in oxygen molecules
to special receptors located in the back of the throat. The Protogen then inhales this
storage of oxygen molecules, the action is similar to a normal breath. If the Protogen is
submerged in water, the nanites will close up stopping this molecule delivery system.

Aquatic Protogen possess a gill system which allows them to adapt to this
environment.
Can a Protogen live in space?
A Protogen cannot survive permanently in the vacuum of space and will need oxygen to
provide required nutrients to cell production and function. A Protogen can go out into
space without additional protection or gear but it is not recommended as they are not
100% protected from radiation.

Do Protogen contain ferromagnetic (Magnetic) properties?

Yes, Protogen do contain magnetic properties. The exact makeup is unknown as the
Primogenitors have always been very secretive of their research but from available
information they do possess some level of ferromagnetism.

How do Protogen talk/communicate or sound?

Protogen are able to communicate in a multitude of ways. Protogen can either learn
certain language dialects (Alien or earth origin) or use a variety of clicks, beeps, buzzes
and robot jargon. Protogen can also communicate via a telepathic network wired to
their species.

Their base dialect and language study does derive from the Primogenitors own
language but this only by default.

What Kind of equipment / gear can Protogen have?

Protogen can have any kind of gear/equipment or items, there are no limits on what you
can add to the armor gear (besides equipment trying to specifically imitate rare traits,
as those would simply count as those traits).
Some acceptable examples are:
● Speakers/music devices
● Guns/weapons/lasers
● Small robotic 'helper' arms
● Medical equipment/surgical gear
● Clothes and accessories (Of any sort)

What kind of Vehicles do Protogen use?

Protogen can operate a variety of vehicles including space craft and EVAS. Most of
these were built by Primogenitors but some Protogen have crafted their own vehicles.
Can an EMP (Electromagnetic Pulse) kill a Protogen?
Yes an EMP can be fatal if it's strong enough. The average protogen has
safeguards in place for low level EMP's. stronger EMP's and even lightning
strikes will overpower these safeguards. Protogen can also be created with
stronger safeguards against EMP and other electrical surges, and a Protogen
proficient in Arcai practices that involve the control of electromagnetic waves
may be able to be immune all together.

Can Protogen reproduce?

Protogen are not able to reproduce, the artificial growth and mechanical
synchronization renders the species sterile. Arcaite transfer would not be possible via
natural birth process and thus the species have been genetically altered to produce no
eggs, sperm or growth of internal reproductive organs. External reproductive organs are
entirely optional but do not have any reproductive ability.

The concept and design of external reproductive organs is entirely up to the

Artist/Owner.