Thyrrus
The Thyrrus are a squid-like alien species who see war as a performance, thus making tactical decisions based on spectacle, flash and aiming to inflict the heaviest casualties on both sides - rather than what is tactically sensible to non-Thyrrus.
History
They made unprovoked assaults in the Segmentum Pacificus around 2.306.784.M41 against regiments of the Stemivari Imperial Guard, who referred to them by the nickname of "squiddies."[1]
Sighted possible classes/unit types are Thyrrus warriors, soliloquns, propmasters, and luminous war-machines.[1]
Physiology and Biology
The Thyrrus are perfectly adapted to survival in atmospheric, gravitational, and geographical extremes.
They have quadruple forearms each triple-jointed with simple fingers suggesting limited dexterity. Their lower tentacles, however, show massive strength and dexterity and may provide their means of acute manipulation. They have four eyes, suggesting 230-degree peripheral vision. The forward pair see in high wavelengths such as infrared, whilst the rear pair indicate extreme photosensitivity. They lack an endo- or exo-skeleton, and are instead supported by a cartilaginous central column. Nourishment is absorbed through a form of osmosis by altering the absorbency of their mouthparts with a fibrous "sieve," and can be absorbed from almost anything. Respiratory regulation appears to be by the same means, providing a type of built-in organic gasmask.[1]
The Thyrrus can change colour and surface texture at will, often displaying gaudy patterns and clashing hues instead of purposeful camouflage.[1]
Society
The Thyrrus have no concept of victory or defeat, and everything of their lives, wars and day-to-day business is directed towards their vast performance. Though any logic, guiding purpose, or audience for this performance is unknown.[1]
Technology
The Thyrrus are known to use weapons analogous to a plasma-generator, though notably enhanced with additional lights, colours and cords for display or possibly communication.[1]