Astrodeus (species)

 

    An Astrodeus (plural: Astrodei) is the evolved form of a human who acquires quintessence. While no one is born as an Astrodeus, a person becomes a genetically-perfected version of themselves when they evolve. An Astrodeus is impervious to genetic disorders or diseases of any kind. They are generally 3-4 feet taller than their human forms, and their bodies are exceptionally more durable. Furthermore, Astrodei do not have centralized organs. When they evolve, their organs transform into bundles of veins and specialized tissue; this means that they practically do not have a weak spot. They cannot be shot in the heart because they do not have one. Even damage to the brain is rarely fatal. Barring extreme injuries such as decapitation, it is generally considered that you can only kill an Astrodeus by making it bleed out. Note that any gender can become an Astrodeus.

    Because of their exceptional bodies, Astrodei typically have drastically-higher endurance than human characters. Their Strength and Speed stats are also much higher, but their dexterity is unchanged.

    While a person can choose to suppress the Astrodeus evolution and remain human, most people evolve almost immediately after getting quintessence. The evolution process devours the surrounding air, stealing energy in the form of pressure, temperature, and atomic bonds. This stolen energy then surges into the emergent Astrodeus as their bodies grow. The energy becomes the ingredients for their new body while also facilitating the transformation. The transformation is sometimes called an apotheosis.

    A person can only acquire quintessence by sacrificing a person's eternal soul on an Array of Black Fire. In other words, an Astrodeus cannot exist without murdering another person in a way that destroys their soul. Because of this, Astrodei are eventually seen as extremely dangerous -- both because of their power and mercilessness. Most Astrodei then succumb to the quintessence curse: a side-effect which compels them to overstep their own boundaries in pursuit of quintessence. Most Astrodei are merciless murderers and hunters, constantly chasing down their next fix.

    In addition to their exceptional bodies, Astrodei also exhibit unique powers called Astrodeus powers. No two Astrodei have the exact same power, but some are exceptionally unique.

    Hatasuko (from A World without Misery) is the very first Astrodeus. Very few people know the truth about Astrodei and how to become one, but Madeline facilitated his transformation, claiming it to be the ultimate weapon. 

Also see: Astrodeus powers

Also see: Array of Black Fire

Also see: Quintessence