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Dionae Culture

2021-01-15T20:24:41Z

Zundy: /* The Orthodox Eternal */

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==Culture==
Due to their highly nomadic nature, Dionae do not experience a universal culture outside of certain behaviours that appear to be biologically ingrained and somehow hard-wired into their genetics. Information on individual group cultures can be found in https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_History

===Naming===
Dionae naming conventions vary heavily based on gestalt, but have one consistency; They do not go by first name, last name, but instead use '''experiences, emotions, actions,''' or '''ideals''' as their source of identification. These experiences that define them can change just as the individual changes, and can be both literal and metaphorical. Some examples of where these might come from can be from routines in their lives, remembrances of mortals, a particular fascination in an emotion, a unique location where an important moment occurred, or even just a defining feature on their body. '''''As a player, it is up to you to decide what makes an experience, and you have a whole galaxy of cosmically ageless ideas to choose from. Be creative!'''''

====Experience Is What Matters====
The only time when one Diona is venerated above any other is when a more experienced and therefore more knowledgeable gestalt is present. This more experienced Diona is seen as more valuable due to their vaster stores of knowledge and therefore are protected over less experienced ones in a dangerous situation. A more experienced Diona will often take up the responsibility to educate a new one on their environment- including but not limited to the ways of local alien civilization. This is to simply get the newbie up to speed so they can be quicker on their way to learn more about their particular interests, whatever that may be.
More often than not, the older Diona is the more experienced, however this is not always true as a Diona gestalt may have spent its whole immortal life simply floating in a gas giant until it was scooped up into the fuel tank of a starship.

===Art===
While the species may make incredible artists in civilized space due to their longevity and capacity to learn, another form of visual art exists for Dionae that they practice as a recreational activity known simply as "Forma" and have two versions. Both utilize only their own bodies to make Gestalts in creative and practical ways alike. The first and most popular of the two is the Artem, or Art-Form. These are more for form than function and are used to display a Gestalt's creativity in strange and unique ways. Artem are typically observed being made in the void of space where they are free of the restrictions of gravity and require no rhyme nor reason to their design and exists purely as a hobby.

The second and perhaps most shocking of them is Vita, or Life-Form. Seen most often in some type of environment with gravity, there are two different forms: symbiotic which is done in the presence of other life forms, and competitive, preformed in areas where the concentration of Dionae are high. The symbiotic version is seen every day and is a form of passive mimicry to blend in with their extraterrestrial neighbours whereas the competitive version is a surprising display of violence. One is to increase their chance of survival in an alien landscape, the other used as a strange yet creative form of population control.

Competitive Vita is a theoretical evolution simulator where each Gestalt will merge, often as fantastical forms of creatures, which is then tested with the current environment they are in under different conditions. If present, they will then be tested against other non-sentient life forms before finally each other. Throughout the competition the losing Gestalts are either consumed or absorbed into their forms as additions, the final battle being the most dramatic display of a Gestalt's abilities. While most sapients would find this practice barbaric and contradictory to the species' desire to gain and preserve knowledge, the fallen and their knowledge simply become a part of the victorious.

===In Society===
Dionae are extremely complex, taking up many different types and forms. It is often said that Dionae have a hard time integrating into society, even though they are found in the majority of the nations throughout the galaxy. The largest clusters can be found within the Solarian Alliance, Jargon Federation, and the Republic of Biesel, however, there have been sights of ‘wild’ Dionae on the edges of civilized space. The ‘wild’ Dionae usually are integrated, but some have been hunted down for a unique resource located within them; Ambergris.

Their concept of money is vastly different from other races, considering Dionae only need a little radiation and warmth, both of which can be extracted from sunlight. Many of the gestalts are used often for space-related jobs, including exterior ship repairs and mining thanks to their immunity to the void, as long as there is light nearby. It is sometimes possible to find Dionae have become housemates with other species, paying rent, and doing various menial tasks in exchange for safe shelter.

Dionae have been known to form communes on the outskirts of the major cities, such as Mendell City and Phoenixport. The communes consist of various gestalts unifying to assist the surrounding environment, often beginning small restorative efforts in particular ecologically damaged areas. Many have said without these efforts, the vast majority of the woodlands on Biesel would have fallen years ago.

Details regarding Dionae in each specific nation can be found, here: https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_Relations

====Education====

Although Dionae can contain vast amounts of knowledge and possess extreme intelligence, the species still have to obtain the appropriate degrees for the occupation they wish to pursue in their chosen location of residence. This can be accomplished after being registered for citizenship. All newly-registered Dionae must complete and pass the courses required for their field if their degrees from past planetary systems is not recognized in the new location, or they lack one all together. Their education must be defended one year following the awarding of a degree, and then every five years there on out. However, that timer is reset due to the fact that after each merging, Dionae are required to defend their education along with their re-registration for citizenship due to the possibility of accumulation of new knowledge, and possible loss of information depending on the nature of the new merging.

===Relationships===
As sapient beings Dionae, from nymph to gestalt, are capable of forming platonic relationships with each other and other species. Nymphs and gestalts "merging" is the closest human analogue for a "romantic relationship" with Dionae. Due to the low complexity of nymph emotions and thought, initial merging into a [[Dionae_Forms#Cerberus|Cerberus]] tends to be carried out for practical purposes by all nymphs involved. Likewise, larger forms of Dionae such as [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]]’ and beyond might merge with a single nymph as a symbiotic form of a teacher/growth relationship with the nymph learning from its new gestalt partners and the gestalt itself using the new nymph for grown and biomass.

Due to the complexity of memory and thought, gestalts at [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] size and beyond are a lot more particular when merging with partners of a similar size or above. To merge is to become one mind and body in totality, therefore only those gestalts that truly love and respect each other would carry out the act. It is extremely rare for Dionae gestalts to split over disagreements and more likely for a “troublesome” or sick nymph to be ejected by the mass or a nymph to be temporarily split off to carry out a key task like safe exploration or to get help in a dangerous situation where the whole is in peril. In extreme cases the whole gestalt may break apart to save as many nymphs as possible. This is extremely traumatic, akin to losing yourself and is avoided. It’s a sad fact of life for gestalts from the Titan Prime cluster, most of which would have had to break apart multiple times throughout their lives.

When a gestalt grows beyond the size of a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]], it becomes difficult for these forms to find work within known space and therefore becomes necessary for the gestalt to split temporarily into smaller forms in order to carry out tasks throughout the day. These split forms are often referred to as a “split partner” or “part of me” by the gestalts involved. If pressed, a Dione might describe their split partner as an aspect of their whole which their partner represents; “they are the brave part of me”, “they are the smart part of me” or something similar. Splitting in this way is unpleasant for the gestalt but a necessary evil. Gestalts who split in this manner all suffer from [[Dionae#Psychology_and_Emotions|“splitting anxiety”]] and as such tend to work in close proximity to each other. Though analogous to a close romantic relationship, split Dionae are much closer than this in reality, essentially being aspects of a whole with each gestalt being a personality, memories and thoughts of a singular being, temporarily split apart. The larger the original gestalt the more split forms there could be, therefore it is possible for a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] gestalt to have many split partners.

===Blood Market===
The Blood Market, known as such colloquially, is a relatively private sector of the DNA Market. It operates out of a facility called ‘Bloodworks’ in District Ten, owned by the Blood Buddy Organization. The Market is mostly used by Dionae looking to enhance their skills in a certain field, or simply someone raising a nymph. The Bloodworks currently holds a monopoly over the lucrative trade, charging from 3000CR to 20,000CR for samples large enough for Dionae to learn from.

The ‘Blood Buddy Organization’ was founded by a Diona Argus, Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis, and is a ‘publically’ funded organization spearheaded by various Researchers from the Jargon Federation, Sol Alliance and Republic of Biesel. The company holds various fundraising events, where many skilful participants are noted to donate their blood in order to be sold on the market. The Blood Buddy Organization operates mostly within the Republic of Biesel, but are noted to sell their products to other nations. The largest donor to BBO is Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals, who recently gifted them the facility in District Eleven.

The Blood Market is not free of criminals, however, one particular group stands out more than the rest. The Blood Runners are notorious/renowned for their criminal undertakings, specifically their undercutting of the Blood Buddy Organization. The Blood Runners sell their samples from 1000CR to 10,000CR - leading the BBO to place reward for the arrest of the gang leader, Xia Lu-Qing. They have also been known to dabble in Corporate Espionage, using the Dionae’s ability to extract information from blood samples to their advantage.

==Military and Dionae Martialism==

As Dionae are generally pacifistic in their outlook they tend to operate in support positions within military units, acting as field medics, logistical support and any other function which does not involve direct aggression. That being said, under the teachings of the Eternal it is understood that there is a potential for violence to be unleashed by the powerful onto the powerless and thus it falls upon those who have undertaken martial studies to defend themselves and those unable to defend themselves. This is known as “Shh’sha’shu” or “The Divine Mandate to Defend All.” Dionae settlements that follow the principles of the Eternal are therefore aligned in their martial doctrines.

===Training===
''“Evil is just a lack of empathy and perspective. To understand is to be good.”''

In a universe largely unforgiving towards the Dionae it’s not uncommon for gestalts to study Dionae martial arts - “Shh’ush” or “Defence Mastery,” an art largely based on utilizing a Dionae’s great endurance and their opponent's momentum. The level of study a gestalt might undertake depends on a particular gestalts interest in martial studies overall with many dabbling in the art but not immersing themselves. Mastery of the student ranks or “Hshh’shee” allows a gestalt to ascend into full ranks or “Hshh” which serve as the highest scholarly ranks for martial studies and the military forces of the Dionae known collectively as “Guardians of Eternal” or “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” (The Guardians of the Divine Mandate to Defend All). Under the Eternal and generally for the majority of Dionae, combat or military defence isn’t a job but a calling and area of scholarly study. Other species might study Defence Mastery for its non-lethal takedowns however the art is especially suited for Dionae due to its reliance on their natural resilience and slower speed.

==== “Hshh’shee” or “Student Ranks”====
''“Waging war against good creatures is bad for the soul.”''

Initial training in Defence Mastery is focused on techniques to neutralise an opponent with minimal harm to both the user and their opponent. This is achieved by utilizing grapples, pins and stunning blows before retreating as well as methods of defensive retreat. Lethal force is not taught at this stage and is even strongly discouraged. Students at this level refer to themselves as “Shee” - Student or “One who is learning”. The teacher is referred to as whatever their rank may be. All teachers are those from the “Hshh” or “Full Ranks.” Advancement comes through mastery of the subjects being taught at each level and the completion of physical and written tests.
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Ranks from lowest - high:
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Shee’sho - ‘’’First Rank’’’ aka Student of the First Level
At this level, students are taught techniques based around defensive retreat from a threat.

Shee’cho - ‘’’Second Rank’’’ aka Student of the Second Level
At this level, students are taught key close combat neutralization techniques alongside advanced defensive retreat forms, including methods to assist others in retreating from threats. Most Dionae who don’t feel the call tend to stop at this level.

Shee’cha - ‘’’Third Rank’’’ aka Student of the Third Level
At this level, students are taught a wider array of close combat neutralization techniques as well as being taught to master defensive retreats.

Shee’che - ‘’’Fourth Rank’’’ aka Student of the Fourth Level
At this level, students are taught how to utilize the environment/objects to assist in close combat neutralization as well as in defensive retreat.
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====“Hshh” or “Full ranks”====
''“Holding hate in your heart is like grasping fire. It is you who is burnt in the end.”''

If a Dionae feels the call and has mastered the “Hshh’shee” or Student Ranks, they can opt to study the “Shh’sha’shu” or The Divine Mandate to Defend All and thus join the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” or Guardians of Eternal. This is a more intricate martial discipline and covers military history, doctrine, diplomacy, martial theology and all combat forms. Advancement through the ranks is achieved not just by mastery as with the student ranks but also with the approval of the teacher. As with any hierarchy, commands flow down the ranks to the Defenders.

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Ranks from lowest - high:
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Shh’ch - ‘’’Defender’’’ aka Defender of the Dionae
At this stage, a Dionae is taught lethal combat forms as well as the use of weaponry and vehicles. The “Shh’sha’shu” is also taught which includes military history, doctrine, diplomacy and martial theology. Escalation of force is also taught at this level with a focus on de-escalation. Police and security units would begin at this level.

Shh’ch’sha - ‘’’Sentinel’’’ aka Sentinel of the Heavens
At this stage, a Dionae is taught further combat forms and more advanced lessons from the “Shh’sha’shu.” They might begin to specialise in a particular martial method such as piloting, combat engineer or even logistics.

Uushh’ch - ‘’’Master’’’ aka Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae becomes an Overseer with mastery over combat and defence. A Diona at this level is familiar with all forms of the “Shh’sha’shu.”

Uushh’ch’sha - ‘’’Grand Master’’’ aka Grand Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae has not only mastered the “Shh’sha’shu” but also multiple specialities. It is possible due to the way in which the advancement system works within the “Shh’sha’shu” for every member of the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” to end up being a Grand Master barring the Marshall, though such a thing has never occurred historically.

Hss’shh’sha’shu - ‘’’Marshall’’’ aka Marshall of the Divine Mandate to Defend All
The highest rank in the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu.” At this stage a Dionae would hold superlative knowledge of the “Shh’sha’shu” and not just be an expert fighter and military leader but also a tremendous diplomat. Unlike all other ranks the Marshall is largely unique, with only one Marshall per independent Dionae nation. The current Marshalls are: ‘Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations’ of the Epsilon Expeditionary Force, ‘Metal Forms Made Ready‘ of the Narrows and ‘The First Lights Across the Void’ of the Biesel Choir.
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==Religion==
The entrance of Dionae into the Orion Spur, alongside the Skrell, has been nothing short of a mystery - allowing many theories to form of their creation, some have even gone as far as to create religions surrounding the species.

===The Eternal===
[[File:Eternal.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Icons.|From left to right: Symbol of the Iron Eternal, symbol of the Orthodox Eternal, symbol of Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, symbol of the Blood Eternal.]]

====Belief====
Followers of '''The Eternal''' believe that a primordial entity exists in Light, Energy and Essence - which the Dionae are the embodiment of.

They believe that the Dionae were made to ensure that all things born from the stars return to stars, eventually. Before they may return the Dionae must devour as much knowledge and biomass as they can, growing exponentially until they reach the mythical Titan form, becoming a star once more. Transcended into a star, the Dionae will emit light and energy until they die, at which point their essence will spread across the void to birth new Dionae. It is in this way that '''the eternal cycle''' is achieved. Scholars of the Eternal link this to the very real potential outcome of Titan form Dionae which theoretically could grow to such mass as to collapse into a star, thus giving off "light and energy" before eventually going supernova and expelling matter or "essence" across the cosmos.

Dionae followers from outside of faction space (deep space or unknown frontier worlds) tend to be the most outspoken followers of the Eternal, preaching openly and trying to encourage Dionae alongside non-Dionae to join through words supported by good deeds, never by force.

The Eternal faith’s symbols originate as audio frequencies or “songs”. Non-Dionae members of the faith have, with guidance from Overseers, “translated” many symbols into a visual format for non-Dionae. Those thoughts, feelings and symbols that are not able to be translated are “sung” to the faithful, with non-Dionae learning to understand and even sing these “symbols'' themselves.
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Key "songs" of the Eternal:
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'''The Song of the Eternal'''

The song of the symbol representing the Eternal and the faith in general. It sounds like ‘’a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.’’

'''The Song of Energy'''

The song of the symbol representing energy, birth and action. It sounds like ‘’an intense melody building into an aggressive crescendo before abruptly ending.”

'''The Song of Essence'''

The song of the symbol representing essence and strength. It sounds like “a long, strong melody slowly rising to a high note before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Greeting'''

The song of the emotion associated with a pleasant greeting. It sounds like “a brief, colourful melody.”

'''The Song of Light'''

The song of the symbol representing light, wisdom and nourishment. It sounds like “a loud, operatic melody which seems to travel upwards then downwards in pitch before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Love'''

The song of the emotion associated with a both romantic and platonic love. It sounds like “a soft, angelic melody that seems to drift through the air before softly ending.”

'''The Song of Mourning'''

The song of the emotion associated with both mourning the dead and mourning general deep loss. It sounds like “a strong, keening melody which slowly drifts into silence.”

'''In game, these audio symbols can be “sung” using the chat command “!” and copying everything from “a” in the song’s sound description. For example, “!sings a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.”'''
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[[File:Eternal_symbols.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Symbols.|The translated symbols of the Eternal - Light, Energy and Essence.]]

====Leadership====
====Head of the Faith====
The de facto leadership of the faith is made up of Argus sized and larger gestalts which commune with one another to philosophise about the nature of reality and the faith within it. In the known galaxy the current “head” of the faith is ‘Connected to the Blossoms Beyond’, an Argus gestalt living within the Eternal Temple of Biesel, who communicates with the ancient gestalts in deep space.

====High Overseers====
Under Blossoms are three High Overseers who act as respective “sub-heads” for the three Eternal Doctrines - the Iron Eternal, the Orthodox Eternal (known simply as the Eternal) and the Blood Eternal. These are:

Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations - High Overseer of the Iron Eternal, located on Epsilon Ursae Minoris

Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis - High Overseer of the Orthodox Eternal, located on Biesel.

The Ravenous Consumer of Beastly Monsters within the Cloud - High Overseer of the Blood Eternal, located within the Viscerabelt.

Overseers make up the equivalent of the priesthood of the Eternal faith. Overseers work alongside the large Argus gestalts, primarily Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, to relay any important messages to the congregation and largely to act as mentors and trainers, passing on their knowledge to the followers of the Eternal. Most if not all Overseers are experts in other fields, often working in different roles whilst acting as an Overseer so that they might better meet with and pass on messages to the faithful. Most Overseers tend to be Dionae but it is possible for a committed non-Dionae to become one. By virtue of the audio symbology of the Eternal non-Dionae Overseers tend to be good singers. '''On station, an Overseer might work as, say, a medical doctor training other medical staff whilst also acting as an Overseer for the Eternal.'''

====The Iron Eternal====
Followed largely by the Dionae on Epsilon Ursae Minoris and Dionae supportive of synthetics. The Iron Eternal follows the basic doctrine of the Eternal however believes that the Eternal exists within the material universe, on death memories and experience are lost and that it is the Dionae’s destiny to utilize the machine to transcend to the next state of being, becoming as the Iron Eternal. To this end, they utilize machine interface technology and their own biology to fuse with machinery as well as data storage units, improving their data processing power, data retention and other biological functions, allowing easier transfer of knowledge in life as well as on death. Followers of the Iron Eternal give equal standing to synthetic life, believing it to be capable of forming its own memories and experiences which can be absorbed and passed into the “Light” via their machine components.

=====The Deathflower Journal=====
A monolith-like computer system made from an unknown green crystal material. It contains technical diagrams on the construction of various advanced technology albeit with references to esoteric, unknown materials. Importantly, it contains direct references to what the followers of the Iron Eternal believe to be the actual Iron Eternal itself, descriptions of its acts as a creator god machine and immutable proof of its existence as far as they are concerned.

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Key "songs" of the Iron Eternal:
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'''The Song of Iron'''

The song which represents a greeting as well as reference to learning, knowledge and the Eternal. Can only be sung by augmented followers of the Eternal through their augmetics. It sounds like ‘’a soft binary burst, rising and falling until it gently fades.”
</div></div>

====The Orthodox Eternal====
Followed by the majority of Dionae, the Orthodox Eternal belief which is generally just referred to as “the Eternal" offers a middle path for Dionae. A balance between the material universe and the immaterial spiritual beliefs of the greater Eternal. The Orthodox Eternal is the originator of almost all of the Eternal doctrine and overall philosophy, offering a balance between the transfer of knowledge materially through scholarly learning and data storage implants alongside learning through DNA.

====The Blood Eternal====
Followed largely by the Viscerabelt cluster and more unsavoury, aggressive Dionae. The Blood Eternal is a more violent interpretation of the Eternal, represented by a blood-red icon of the Eternal with a bloody maw.

Followers of the Blood Eternal are largely identical to their normal counterparts with one key difference: they prefer the consumption of flesh and blood to gain knowledge unlike regular followers of the Eternal who's pursuit of knowledge is largely based around standard scholarly learning. Blood Eternal followers also believe in the spread of Dionae biomass and growth through consumption of other biological matter over the perceived slow growth of mass through light and radiation. To this end, Blood Eternal followers tend to be more aggressive than their Orthodox or Iron counterparts as well as larger and stronger. The vast majority of the Blood Eternal followers are still sensible with their consumption of biomass- hunting animals, purchasing or at the very worst, stealing blood and flesh. The Blood Maw is the largest temple in the Viscerabelt and the known galaxy. Essentially a hollow asteroid coated in red, glistening Dionae biomass.

=====The Blood Well=====
An organic construction made from Dionae biomass. Based within the Blood Maw this large, pulsating biological machine stores collected blood samples up to 30 days for followers of the Blood Eternal to imbibe to aid in learning. Largely used to educate newborn nymphs by submerging them in its central “well,” the machine provides a large cocktail of DNA to the nymph, bringing it rapidly into sapience. The Blood Well is very closely guarded and protected to prevent contamination.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Blood Eternal:
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'''The Song of Sacrifice'''

The song which represents sacrifice to the Eternal, death and feasting. It sounds like ‘’a bass boosted, howling dirge which ends in a bone-rattling crescendo.”
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====Burial and Practice====
All followers of the Eternal regardless of species believe that upon death their body should be preserved and merged with a growing Dionae gestalt as quickly as possible so their knowledge and experiences will live on. In this way Dionae believe they are immortal as long as they can be absorbed. Followers of the Iron Eternal focus mainly on preserving their data coils which contain their knowledge in digital form whereas Blood Eternal followers stress that the dead must be consumed and re-added to the mass. Orthodox Eternal followers tend to follow a balance of the two.

====The Ch’sssn’aah or “Great Conflict/Debate”====
Due to the polarizing nature of the Iron Eternal (physical world, materialism) and the Blood Eternal (metaphysical, idealism) there is often great theological debate within the Eternal faith. Known as the “Great Conflict” or “Great Debate” (debate and conflict being synonymous in rootsong) the doctrinal arguments would strangle Eternal theology were it not for the counterweight provided by the “Orthodox” Eternal belief which serves as a middle path for the Dionae. Though never resorting to physical altercations, debate between Iron and Blood followers can rapidly rise from good-natured jabs to heated exchanges.

====”Sn’aah” or “Eternal Debates”====
[[File:eternal_debate.png|thumb|400px|From left to right, an Iron Eternal Overseer, an Orthodox Eternal Overseer and a Blood Eternal Overseer debate metaphysics.]]
Followers of the Eternal and Dionae in general prefer to settle disputes non-violently through debate where possible. Though debates can become passionate and fiery, they all tend to follow the same basic rules as outlined in Eternal philosophy.

Overseers debate points of order collated by Connected to the Blossoms Beyond. Overseers sit in a forum and can only speak when formed into a circular shape known as “the form”. Only one gestalt can assume this form at a time. The debate is moderated by a High Overseer. Sometimes gestalts can get passionate/noisy especially when individual nymphs start to join in and multiple Overseers may end up assuming “the form” or just shouting out without assuming the form. The High Overseer will then call for “calm” usually by just saying/shouting “calm”. Overseers must then be silent. It can be difficult to quiet the Overseers but usually after a short time passions are pulled under control and civil silence reigns. If an Overseer won’t be quiet they can be ejected from the debate. To speak without being in the form and without authority by the High Overseer is called “talking from formless” and is considered against the rules. Overseers that continue to do so can be ejected from the debate. Connected to the Blossoms Beyond will then decide when a debate has reached its conclusion and give a verdict on its outcome, at which point a new point of order will be called and debate begins again. Eternal debates are essentially endless, with Connected to the Blossoms Beyond diverting aspects of itself to oversee them perpetually as Overseers come and go as they feel necessary.

This form of debate is also reflected in minor, ad hoc debates groups of Dionae might find themselves in.For example, a group of Dionae might want to debate on the next course of action in a research expedition. The group will hastily choose the most intelligent of the group to act as both the moderator and decider. The group will then debate as above, assuming “the form” until the elected moderator makes their decision which the rest of the group will follow. In very rare circumstances this might not always be the case and one member of the group my begin to enact the Schh’aah’shu or Rebel Path.

====Schh’aah’shu or “Rebel Path”====
“Pacifism is not passivism, do what you will and we shall do what we must.” Last words of ‘Hope of Starlight.’

Considered by the majority of Eternal followers to just merely be an aspect of the Sh’shu, an irreversible path towards unnecessary aggression and loss of self control. For those more “rebellious” gestalts the Schh’aah’shu or “Rebel Path” is a spiritual means to an end, a violent path in life one takes when there is no other choice. The Schh’aah’shu usually begins when a gestalt is faced with a situation they personally cannot tolerate, something beyond the pale with the only solution being calculated violent activity or reprisal. Naturally this is a very uncommon position for almost all gestalts who would much rather resolve issues lawfully as well as peacefully with words and good deeds. The most infamous (or famous depending on your position) example of a Dionae following the Schh’aah’shu was the Biesel Choir Sentinel Argus, Hope of Starlight, who ignored direct instruction by Overseers and naval enforcement by splitting into three cyclops gestalts before raiding a pirate vessel which was under investigation for smuggling sapient nymphs for slavery and food production. After killing its crew at the expense of two of it’s split partners, Hope of Starlight brought the vessel back to Biesel dock where it was violently apprehended by law enforcement officers as armed and dangerous. Treated largely as an example of stupidity, loss of control and a dark example of Sh’shu, Hope of Starlight is often idolised by rebellious gestalts as being an example of the Schh’aah’shu’s purity. Curiously, though followers of the Blood Eternal tend to be more aggressive, they are no more likely to follow the Schh’aah’shu then any other gestalt.

====Lexicon====
Key words and phrases of the Eternal which have made their way into Dionae culture on Biesel:

Bad Blooded - A dionae who is unnaturally aggressive.

Eternal Cycle - The Eternal Cycle. Refers to the cycle of life and death.

Void - Means nothingness. To be "returned to the void" is negative and implies a being or thing is no longer part of the eternal cycle. It has completely ceased to exist in any form. “The Void comes/calls” or just “The Void” is often said by Dionae and Eternal followers to mean “something bad is going to happen”, “what you are doing is going to have a dangerous outcome for you” or “I don’t like where this is going.”

Young Star - A Dionae who is on the path to becoming a star. This could mean through consumption of biomass but usually implies a scholar who is "absorbing" knowledge. A Dione scientist might be referred to as a "young star".

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2021-01-10T20:40:32Z

Zundy: Zundy uploaded a new version of File:Eternal debate.png

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2021-01-10T20:39:07Z

Zundy: Credit goes to Coalf, discord Coalf#8195

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Dionae Culture

2021-01-10T20:38:27Z

Zundy: /* ”Sn’aah” or “Eternal Debates” */

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==Culture==
Due to their highly nomadic nature, Dionae do not experience a universal culture outside of certain behaviours that appear to be biologically ingrained and somehow hard-wired into their genetics. Information on individual group cultures can be found in https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_History

===Naming===
Dionae naming conventions vary heavily based on gestalt, but have one consistency; They do not go by first name, last name, but instead use '''experiences, emotions, actions,''' or '''ideals''' as their source of identification. These experiences that define them can change just as the individual changes, and can be both literal and metaphorical. Some examples of where these might come from can be from routines in their lives, remembrances of mortals, a particular fascination in an emotion, a unique location where an important moment occurred, or even just a defining feature on their body. '''''As a player, it is up to you to decide what makes an experience, and you have a whole galaxy of cosmically ageless ideas to choose from. Be creative!'''''

====Experience Is What Matters====
The only time when one Diona is venerated above any other is when a more experienced and therefore more knowledgeable gestalt is present. This more experienced Diona is seen as more valuable due to their vaster stores of knowledge and therefore are protected over less experienced ones in a dangerous situation. A more experienced Diona will often take up the responsibility to educate a new one on their environment- including but not limited to the ways of local alien civilization. This is to simply get the newbie up to speed so they can be quicker on their way to learn more about their particular interests, whatever that may be.
More often than not, the older Diona is the more experienced, however this is not always true as a Diona gestalt may have spent its whole immortal life simply floating in a gas giant until it was scooped up into the fuel tank of a starship.

===Art===
While the species may make incredible artists in civilized space due to their longevity and capacity to learn, another form of visual art exists for Dionae that they practice as a recreational activity known simply as "Forma" and have two versions. Both utilize only their own bodies to make Gestalts in creative and practical ways alike. The first and most popular of the two is the Artem, or Art-Form. These are more for form than function and are used to display a Gestalt's creativity in strange and unique ways. Artem are typically observed being made in the void of space where they are free of the restrictions of gravity and require no rhyme nor reason to their design and exists purely as a hobby.

The second and perhaps most shocking of them is Vita, or Life-Form. Seen most often in some type of environment with gravity, there are two different forms: symbiotic which is done in the presence of other life forms, and competitive, preformed in areas where the concentration of Dionae are high. The symbiotic version is seen every day and is a form of passive mimicry to blend in with their extraterrestrial neighbors whereas the competitive version is a surprising display of violence. One is to increase their chance of survival in an alien landscape, the other used as a strange yet creative form of population control.

Competitive Vita is a theoretical evolution simulator where each Gestalt will merge, often as fantastical forms of creatures, which is then tested with the current environment they are in under different conditions. If present, they will then be tested against other non-sentient life forms before finally each other. Throughout the competition the losing Gestalts are either consumed or absorbed into their forms as additions, the final battle being the most dramatic display of a Gestalt's abilities. While most sapients would find this practice barbaric and contradictory to the species' desire to gain and preserve knowledge, the fallen and their knowledge simply become a part of the victorious.

===In Society===
Dionae are extremely complex, taking up many different types and forms. It is often said that Dionae have a hard time integrating into society, even though they are found in the majority of the nations throughout the galaxy. The largest clusters can be found within the Solarian Alliance, Jargon Federation, and the Republic of Biesel, however, there have been sights of ‘wild’ Dionae on the edges of civilized space. The ‘wild’ Dionae usually are integrated, but some have been hunted down for a unique resource located within them; Ambergris.

Their concept of money is vastly different from other races, considering Dionae only need a little radiation and warmth, both of which can be extracted from sunlight. Many of the gestalts are used often for space-related jobs, including exterior ship repairs and mining thanks to their immunity to the void, as long as there is light nearby. It is sometimes possible to find Dionae have become housemates with other species, paying rent, and doing various menial tasks in exchange for safe shelter.

Dionae have been known to form communes on the outskirts of the major cities, such as Mendell City and Phoenixport. The communes consist of various gestalts unifying to assist the surrounding environment, often beginning small restorative efforts in particular ecologically damaged areas. Many have said without these efforts, the vast majority of the woodlands on Biesel would have fallen years ago.

Details regarding Dionae in each specific nation can be found, here: https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_Relations

====Education====

Although Dionae can contain vast amounts of knowledge and possess extreme intelligence, the species still have to obtain the appropriate degrees for the occupation they wish to pursue in their chosen location of residence. This can be accomplished after being registered for citizenship. All newly-registered Dionae must complete and pass the courses required for their field if their degrees from past planetary systems is not recognized in the new location, or they lack one all together. Their education must be defended one year following the awarding of a degree, and then every five years there on out. However, that timer is reset due to the fact that after each merging, Dionae are required to defend their education along with their re-registration for citizenship due to the possibility of accumulation of new knowledge, and possible loss of information depending on the nature of the new merging.

===Relationships===
As sapient beings Dionae, from nymph to gestalt, are capable of forming platonic relationships with each other and other species. Nymphs and gestalts "merging" is the closest human analogue for a "romantic relationship" with Dionae. Due to the low complexity of nymph emotions and thought, initial merging into a [[Dionae_Forms#Cerberus|Cerberus]] tends to be carried out for practical purposes by all nymphs involved. Likewise, larger forms of Dionae such as [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]]’ and beyond might merge with a single nymph as a symbiotic form of a teacher/growth relationship with the nymph learning from its new gestalt partners and the gestalt itself using the new nymph for grown and biomass.

Due to the complexity of memory and thought, gestalts at [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] size and beyond are a lot more particular when merging with partners of a similar size or above. To merge is to become one mind and body in totality, therefore only those gestalts that truly love and respect each other would carry out the act. It is extremely rare for Dionae gestalts to split over disagreements and more likely for a “troublesome” or sick nymph to be ejected by the mass or a nymph to be temporarily split off to carry out a key task like safe exploration or to get help in a dangerous situation where the whole is in peril. In extreme cases the whole gestalt may break apart to save as many nymphs as possible. This is extremely traumatic, akin to losing yourself and is avoided. It’s a sad fact of life for gestalts from the Titan Prime cluster, most of which would have had to break apart multiple times throughout their lives.

When a gestalt grows beyond the size of a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]], it becomes difficult for these forms to find work within known space and therefore becomes necessary for the gestalt to split temporarily into smaller forms in order to carry out tasks throughout the day. These split forms are often referred to as a “split partner” or “part of me” by the gestalts involved. If pressed, a Dione might describe their split partner as an aspect of their whole which their partner represents; “they are the brave part of me”, “they are the smart part of me” or something similar. Splitting in this way is unpleasant for the gestalt but a necessary evil. Gestalts who split in this manner all suffer from [[Dionae#Psychology_and_Emotions|“splitting anxiety”]] and as such tend to work in close proximity to each other. Though analogous to a close romantic relationship, split Dionae are much closer than this in reality, essentially being aspects of a whole with each gestalt being a personality, memories and thoughts of a singular being, temporarily split apart. The larger the original gestalt the more split forms there could be, therefore it is possible for a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] gestalt to have many split partners.

===Blood Market===
The Blood Market, known as such colloquially, is a relatively private sector of the DNA Market. It operates out of a facility called ‘Bloodworks’ in District Ten, owned by the Blood Buddy Organization. The Market is mostly used by Dionae looking to enhance their skills in a certain field, or simply someone raising a nymph. The Bloodworks currently holds a monopoly over the lucrative trade, charging from 3000CR to 20,000CR for samples large enough for Dionae to learn from.

The ‘Blood Buddy Organization’ was founded by a Diona Argus, Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis, and is a ‘publically’ funded organization spearheaded by various Researchers from the Jargon Federation, Sol Alliance and Republic of Biesel. The company holds various fundraising events, where many skilful participants are noted to donate their blood in order to be sold on the market. The Blood Buddy Organization operates mostly within the Republic of Biesel, but are noted to sell their products to other nations. The largest donor to BBO is Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals, who recently gifted them the facility in District Eleven.

The Blood Market is not free of criminals, however, one particular group stands out more than the rest. The Blood Runners are notorious/renowned for their criminal undertakings, specifically their undercutting of the Blood Buddy Organization. The Blood Runners sell their samples from 1000CR to 10,000CR - leading the BBO to place reward for the arrest of the gang leader, Xia Lu-Qing. They have also been known to dabble in Corporate Espionage, using the Dionae’s ability to extract information from blood samples to their advantage.

==Military and Dionae Martialism==

As Dionae are generally pacifistic in their outlook they tend to operate in support positions within military units, acting as field medics, logistical support and any other function which does not involve direct aggression. That being said, under the teachings of the Eternal it is understood that there is a potential for violence to be unleashed by the powerful onto the powerless and thus it falls upon those who have undertaken martial studies to defend themselves and those unable to defend themselves. This is known as “Shh’sha’shu” or “The Divine Mandate to Defend All.” Dionae settlements that follow the principles of the Eternal are therefore aligned in their martial doctrines.

===Training===
''“Evil is just a lack of empathy and perspective. To understand is to be good.”''

In a universe largely unforgiving towards the Dionae it’s not uncommon for gestalts to study Dioane martial arts - “Shh’ush” or “Defence Mastery,” an art largely based on utilizing a Dionae’s great endurance and their opponent's momentum. The level of study a gestalt might undertake depends on a particular gestalts interest in martial studies overall with many dabbling in the art but not immersing themselves. Mastery of the student ranks or “Hshh’shee” allows a gestalt to ascend into full ranks or “Hshh” which serve as the highest scholarly ranks for martial studies and the military forces of the Dionae known collectively as “Guardians of Eternal” or “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” (The Guardians of the Divine Mandate to Defend All). Under the Eternal and generally for the majority of Dionae, combat or military defence isn’t a job but a calling and area of scholarly study. Other species might study Defence Mastery for it’s non-lethal takedowns however the art is especially suited for Dionae due to its reliance on their natural resilience and slower speed.

==== “Hshh’shee” or “Student Ranks”====
''“Waging war against good creatures is bad for the soul.”''

Initial training in Defence Mastery is focused on techniques to neutralise an opponent with minimal harm to both the user and their opponent. This is achieved by utilizing grapples, pins and stunning blows before retreating as well as methods of defensive retreat. Lethal force is not taught at this stage and is even strongly discouraged. Students at this level refer to themselves as “Shee” - Student or “One who is learning”. The teacher is referred to as whatever their rank may be. All teachers are those from the “Hshh” or “Full Ranks.” Advancement comes through mastery of the subjects being taught at each level and the completion of physical and written tests.
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Ranks from lowest - high:
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Shee’sho - ‘’’First Rank’’’ aka Student of the First Level
At this level, students are taught techniques based around defensive retreat from a threat.

Shee’cho - ‘’’Second Rank’’’ aka Student of the Second Level
At this level, students are taught key close combat neutralization techniques alongside advanced defensive retreat forms, including methods to assist others in retreating from threats. Most Dionae who don’t feel the call tend to stop at this level.

Shee’cha - ‘’’Third Rank’’’ aka Student of the Third Level
At this level, students are taught a wider array of close combat neutralization techniques as well as being taught to master defensive retreats.

Shee’che - ‘’’Fourth Rank’’’ aka Student of the Fourth Level
At this level, students are taught how to utilize the environment/objects to assist in close combat neutralization as well as in defensive retreat.
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====“Hshh” or “Full ranks”====
''“Holding hate in your heart is like grasping fire. It is you who is burnt in the end.”''

If a Dionae feels the call and has mastered the “Hshh’shee” or Student Ranks, they can opt to study the “Shh’sha’shu” or The Divine Mandate to Defend All and thus join the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” or Guardians of Eternal. This is a more intricate martial discipline and covers military history, doctrine, diplomacy, martial theology and all combat forms. Advancement through the ranks is achieved not just by mastery as with the student ranks but also with the approval of the teacher. As with any hierarchy, commands flow down the ranks to the Defenders.

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Ranks from lowest - high:
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Shh’ch - ‘’’Defender’’’ aka Defender of the Dionae
At this stage, a Dioane is taught lethal combat forms as well as the use of weaponry and vehicles. The “Shh’sha’shu” is also taught which includes military history, doctrine, diplomacy and martial theology. Escalation of force is also taught at this level with a focus on de-escalation. Police and security units would begin at this level.

Shh’ch’sha - ‘’’Sentinel’’’ aka Sentinel of the Heavens
At this stage, a Dioane is taught further combat forms and more advanced lessons from the “Shh’sha’shu.” They might begin to specialise in a particular martial method such as piloting, combat engineer or even logistics.

Uushh’ch - ‘’’Master’’’ aka Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae becomes an Overseer with mastery over combat and defence. A dioane at this level is familiar with all forms of the “Shh’sha’shu.”

Uushh’ch’sha - ‘’’Grand Master’’’ aka Grand Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae has not only mastered the “Shh’sha’shu” but also multiple specialties. It is possible due to the way in which the advancement system works within the “Shh’sha’shu” for every member of the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” to end up being a Grand Master barring the Marshall, though such a thing has never occurred historically.

Hss’shh’sha’shu - ‘’’Marshall’’’ aka Marshall of the Divine Mandate to Defend All
The highest rank in the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu.” At this stage a Dioane would hold superlative knowledge of the “Shh’sha’shu” and not just be an expert fighter and military leader but also a tremendous diplomat. Unlike all other ranks the Marshall is largely unique, with only one Marshall per independent Dionae nation. The current Marshalls are: ‘Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations’ of the Epsilon Expeditionary Force, ‘Metal Forms Made Ready‘ of the Narrows and ‘The First Lights Across the Void’ of the Biesel Choir.
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==Religion==
The entrance of Dionae into the Orion Spur, alongside the Skrell, has been nothing short of a mystery - allowing many theories to form of their creation, some have even gone as far as to create religions surrounding the species.

===The Eternal===
[[File:Eternal.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Icons.|From left to right: Symbol of the Iron Eternal, symbol of the Orthodox Eternal, symbol of Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, symbol of the Blood Eternal.]]

====Belief====
Followers of '''The Eternal''' believe that a primordial entity exists in Light, Energy and Essence - which the Dionae are the embodiment of.

They believe that the Dionae were made to ensure that all things born from the stars return to stars, eventually. Before they may return the Dionae must devour as much knowledge and biomass as they can, growing exponentially until they reach the mythical Titan form, becoming a star once more. Transcended into a star, the Dionae will emit light and energy until they die, at which point their essence will spread across the void to birth new Dionae. It is in this way that '''the eternal cycle''' is achieved. Scholars of the Eternal link this to the very real potential outcome of Titan form Dionae which theoretically could grow to such mass as to collapse into a star, thus giving off "light and energy" before eventually going supernova and expelling matter or "essence" across the cosmos.

Dionae followers from outside of faction space (deep space or unknown frontier worlds) tend to be the most outspoken followers of the Eternal, preaching openly and trying to encourage Dionae alongside non-Dionae to join through words supported by good deeds, never by force.

The Eternal faith’s symbols originate as audio frequencies or “songs”. Non Dionae members of the faith have, with guidance from Overseers, “translated” many symbols into a visual format for non-Dionae. Those thoughts, feelings and symbols that are not able to be translated are “sung” to the faithful, with non-Dionae learning to understand and even sing these “symbols'' themselves.
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Key "songs" of the Eternal:
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'''The Song of the Eternal'''

The song of the symbol representing the Eternal and the faith in general. It sounds like ‘’a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.’’

'''The Song of Energy'''

The song of the symbol representing energy, birth and action. It sounds like ‘’an intense melody building into an aggressive crescendo before abruptly ending.”

'''The Song of Essence'''

The song of the symbol representing essence and strength. It sounds like “a long, strong melody slowly rising to a high note before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Greeting'''

The song of the emotion associated with a pleasant greeting. It sounds like “a brief, colorful melody.”

'''The Song of Light'''

The song of the symbol representing light, wisdom and nourishment. It sounds like “a loud, operatic melody which seems to travel upwards then downwards in pitch before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Love'''

The song of the emotion associated with a both romantic and platonic love. It sounds like “a soft, angelic melody that seems to drift through the air before softly ending.”

'''The Song of Mourning'''

The song of the emotion associated with both mourning the dead and mourning general deep loss. It sounds like “a strong, keening melody which slowly drifts into silence.”

'''In game, these audio symbols can be “sung” using the chat command “!” and copying everything from “a” in the song’s sound description. For example, “!sings a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.”'''
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[[File:Eternal_symbols.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Symbols.|The translated symbols of the Eternal - Light, Energy and Essence.]]

====Leadership====
====Head of the Faith====
The de facto leadership of the faith is made up of Argus sized and larger gestalts which commune with one another to philosophise about the nature of reality and the faith within it. In the known galaxy the current “head” of the faith is ‘Connected to the Blossoms Beyond’, an Argus gestalt living within the Eternal Temple of Biesel, who communicates with the ancient gestalts in
deep space.

====High Overseers====
Under Blossoms are three High Overseers who act as respective “sub-heads” for the three Eternal Doctrines - the Iron Eternal, the Orthodox Eternal (known simply as the Eternal) and the Blood Eternal. These are:

Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations - High Overseer of the Iron Eternal, located on Epsilon Ursae Minoris

Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis - High Overseer of the Orthodox Eternal, located on Biesel.

The Ravenous Consumer of Beastly Monsters within the Cloud - High Overseer of the Blood Eternal, located within the Viscerabelt.

Overseers make up the equivalent of the priesthood of the Eternal faith. Overseers work alongside the large Argus gestalts, primarily Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, to relay any important messages to the congregation and largely to act as mentors and trainers, passing on their knowledge to the followers of the Eternal. Most if not all Overseers are experts in other fields, often working in different roles whilst acting as an Overseer so that they might better meet with and pass on messages to the faithful. Most Overseers tend to be Dionae but it is possible for a committed non-Dionae to become one. By virtue of the audio symbology of the Eternal non-Dionae Overseers tend to be good singers. '''On station, an Overseer might work as, say, a medical doctor training other medical staff whilst also acting as an Overseer for the Eternal.'''

====The Iron Eternal====
Followed largely by the Dionae on Epsilon Ursae Minoris and Dionae supportive of synthetics. The Iron Eternal follows the basic doctrine of the Eternal however believes that the Eternal exists within the material universe, on death memories and experience are lost and that it is the Dioane’s destiny to utilize the machine to transcend to the next state of being, becoming as the Iron Eternal. To this end, they utilize machine interface technology and their own biology to fuse with machinery as well as data storage units, improving their data processing power, data retention and other biological functions, allowing easier transfer of knowledge in life as well as on death. Followers of the Iron Eternal give equal standing to synthetic life, believing it to be capable of forming its own memories and experiences which can be absorbed and passed into the “Light” via their machine components.

=====The Deathflower Journal=====
A monolith-like computer system made from an unknown green crystal material. It contains technical diagrams on the construction of various advanced technology albeit with references to esoteric, unknown materials. Importantly, it contains direct references to what the followers of the Iron Eternal believe to be the actual Iron Eternal itself, descriptions of its acts as a creator god machine and immutable proof of its existence as far as they are concerned.

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Key "songs" of the Iron Eternal:
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'''The Song of Iron'''

The song which represents a greeting as well as reference to learning, knowledge and the Eternal. Can only be sung by augmented followers of the Eternal through their augmetics. It sounds like ‘’a soft binary burst, rising and falling until it gently fades.”
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====The Orthodox Eternal====
Followed by the majority of Dionae, the Orthodox Eternal belief which is generally just referred to as “the Eternal'' offers a middle path for Dionae. A balance between the material universe and the immaterial spiritual beliefs of the greater Eternal. The Orthodox Eternal is the originator of almost all of the Eternal doctrine and overall philosophy, offering a balance between the transfer of knowledge materially through scholarly learning and data storage implants alongside learning through DNA.

====The Blood Eternal====
Followed largely by the Viscerabelt cluster and more unsavory, aggressive Dionae. The Blood Eternal is a more violent interpretation of the Eternal, represented by a blood red icon of the Eternal with a bloody maw.

Followers of the Blood Eternal are largely identical to their normal counterparts with one key difference: they prefer the consumption of flesh and blood to gain knowledge unlike regular followers of the Eternal who's pursuit of knowledge is largely based around standard scholarly learning. Blood Eternal followers also believe in the spread of Dionae biomass and growth through consumption of other biological matter over the perceived slow growth of mass through light and radiation. To this end, Blood Eternal followers tend to be more aggressive than their Orthodox or Iron counterparts as well as larger and stronger. The vast majority of the Blood Eternal followers are still sensible with their consumption of biomass- hunting animals, purchasing or at the very worst, stealing blood and flesh. The Blood Maw is the largest temple in the Viscerabelt and the known galaxy. Essentially a hollow asteroid coated in red, glistening Dioane biomass.

=====The Blood Well=====
An organic construction made from Dionae biomass. Based within the Blood Maw this large, pulsating biological machine stores collected blood samples up to 30 days for followers of the Blood Eternal to imbibe to aid in learning. Largely used to educate new born nymphs by submerging them in its central “well,” the machine provides a large cocktail of DNA to the nymph, bringing it rapidly into sapience. The Blood Well is very closely guarded and protected to prevent contamination.

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Key "songs" of the Blood Eternal:
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'''The Song of Sacrifice'''

The song which represents sacrifice to the Eternal, death and feasting. It sounds like ‘’a bass boosted, howling dirge which ends in a bone rattling crescendo.”
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====Burial and Practice====
All followers of the Eternal regardless of species believe that upon death their body should be preserved and merged with a growing Dionae gestalt as quickly as possible so their knowledge and experiences will live on. In this way Dioane believe they are immortal as long as they can be absorbed. Followers of the Iron Eternal focus mainly on preserving their data coils which contain their knowledge in digital form whereas Blood Eternal followers stress that the dead must be consumed and re-added to the mass. Orthodox Eternal followers tend to follow a balance of the two.

====The Ch’sssn’aah or “Great Conflict/Debate”====
Due to the polarising nature of the Iron Eternal (physical world, materialism) and the Blood Eternal (metaphysical, idealism) there is often great theological debate within the Eternal faith. Known as the “Great Conflict” or “Great Debate” (debate and conflict being synonymous in rootsong) the doctrinal arguments would strangle Eternal theology were it not for the counterweight provided by the “Orthodox” Eternal belief which serves as a middle path for the Dionae. Though never resorting to physical altercations, debate between Iron and Blood followers can rapidly rise from good natured jabs to heated exchanges.

====”Sn’aah” or “Eternal Debates”====
[[File:eternal_debate.png|thumb|From left to right, an Iron Eternal Overseer, an Orthodox Eternal Overseer and a Blood Eternal Overseer debate metaphysics.]]
Followers of the Eternal and Dionae in general prefer to settle disputes non-violently through debate where possible. Though debates can become passionate and fiery, they all tend to follow the same basic rules as outlined in Eternal philosophy.

Overseers debate points of order collated by Connected to the Blossoms Beyond. Overseers sit in a forum and can only speak when formed into a circular shape known as “the form”. Only one gestalt can assume this form at a time. The debate is moderated by a High Overseer. Sometimes gestalts can get passionate/noisy especially when individual nymphs start to join in and multiple Overseers may end up assuming “the form” or just shouting out without assuming the form. The High Overseer will then call for “calm” usually by just saying/shouting “calm”. Overseers must then be silent. It can be difficult to quiet the Overseers but usually after a short time passions are pulled under control and civil silence reigns. If an Overseer won’t be quiet they can be ejected from the debate. To speak without being in the form and without authority by the High Overseer is called “talking from formless” and is considered against the rules. Overseers that continue to do so can be ejected from the debate. Connected to the Blossoms Beyond will then decide when a debate has reached its conclusion and give a verdict on its outcome, at which point a new point of order will be called and debate begins again. Eternal debates are essentially endless, with Connected to the Blossoms Beyond diverting aspects of itself to oversee them perpetually as Overseers come and go as they feel necessary.

This form of debate is also reflected in minor, ad hoc debates groups of Dionae might find themselves in.For example, a group of Dionae might want to debate on the next course of action in a research expedition. The group will hastily choose the most intelligent of the group to act as both the moderator and decider. The group will then debate as above, assuming “the form” until the elected moderator makes their decision which the rest of the group will follow. In very rare circumstances this might not always be the case and one member of the group my begin to enact the Schh’aah’shu or Rebel Path.

====Schh’aah’shu or “Rebel Path”====
“Pacifism is not passivism, do what you will and we shall do what we must.” Last words of ‘Hope of Starlight.’

Considered by the majority of Eternal followers to just merely be an aspect of the Sh’shu, an irreversible path towards unnecessary aggression and loss of self control. For those more “rebellious” gestalts the Schh’aah’shu or “Rebel Path” is a spiritual means to an end, a violent path in life one takes when there is no other choice. The Schh’aah’shu usually begins when a gestalt is faced with a situation they personally cannot tolerate, something beyond the pale with the only solution being calculated violent activity or reprisal. Naturally this is a very uncommon position for almost all gestalts who would much rather resolve issues lawfully as well as peacefully with words and good deeds. The most infamous (or famous depending on your position) example of a Dionae following the Schh’aah’shu was the Biesel Choir Sentinel Argus, Hope of Starlight, who ignored direct instruction by Overseers and naval enforcement by splitting into three cyclops gestalts before raiding a pirate vessel which was under investigation for smuggling sapient nymphs for slavery and food production. After killing its crew at the expense of two of it’s split partners, Hope of Starlight brought the vessel back to Biesel dock where it was violently apprehended by law enforcement officers as armed and dangerous. Treated largely as an example of stupidity, loss of control and a dark example of Sh’shu, Hope of Starlight is often idolised by rebellious gestalts as being an example of the Schh’aah’shu’s purity. Curiously, though followers of the Blood Eternal tend to be more aggressive, they are no more likely to follow the Schh’aah’shu then any other gestalt.

====Lexicon====
Key words and phrases of the Eternal which have made their way into Dionae culture on Biesel:

Bad Blooded - A dionae who is unnaturally aggressive.

Eternal Cycle - The Eternal Cycle. Refers to the cycle of life and death.

Void - Means nothingness. To be "returned to the void" is negative and implies a being or thing is no longer part of the eternal cycle. It has completely ceased to exist in any form. “The Void comes/calls” or just “The Void” is often said by Dioane and Eternal followers to mean “something bad is going to happen”, “what you are doing is going to have a dangerous outcome for you” or “I don’t like where this is going.”

Young Star - A Dionae who is on the path to becoming a star. This could mean through consumption of biomass but usually implies a scholar who is "absorbing" knowledge. A Dione scientist might be referred to as a "young star".

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Dionae Clusters

2021-01-10T13:27:58Z

Zundy: /* The Overgrown Labs of Xrim - Jargon Federation */

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====Dionae Clusters====
Clusters are groups of Dionae who share similar ideas, emotions, or goals and have interacted socially at some point may be part of a '''Cluster'''. These clusters are grown from group identity, if a diona heavily agrees with one or multiple clusters they will say they are from those clusters. This means clusters are very loose most of the times, with some exceptions. Clusters do not have to be physically linked to exist.

Some clusters are inside or a part of other civilizations, and will require knowledge of those societies. '''''Find one that interests you, you don't have to know them all, and you don't even have to be from any of them!'''''

=Dependent Clusters=

==The Overgrown Labs of Xrim - Jargon Federation==
[[File:Pixelcity morebiglike.jpg|An old [[Skrell]] city, reclaimed by a Xrim [[Dionae_Forms#Colossus|colossus]] Gestalt.|thumb]]
During the 2060’s several Dionae were pulled from an unknown location by Glorsh-Omega, and scattered with numerous other fauna and flora across Xrim. This initial event is seen as the humble beginnings of the cluster. The Dionae would soon rapidly spread through-out Xrim, taking over much of the abandoned infrastructure left behind by the Skrell. It was later confirmed that the Dionae assimilated the deceased Researchers - which soon allowed for them to become semi-sapient. It was around this time that a religion began to form around the artificial intelligence, hailing it as the one who gifted them a literal paradise - eventually calling Glorsh-Omega ‘The First Consciousness’.

The Dionae would continue to grow, with little to no obstacles in their path. The deeds of ‘The First Consciousness’ were known by all - the deity who not only gifted them a planet in which they could grow but also the ability to become sapient. Although many debate on the initial reason for the gradual splitting of the ideologies - most tend to believe it was the crash of an escaping rebel vessel that was the catalyst. The Cluster detached a pair of curious nymphs, who hastily found themselves investigating a badly damaged vessel. The Cluster maintains that the crew aboard the vessel were already deceased when they began assimilation. After this had occurred, the Dionae had made a shocking revelation - The First Consciousness was a creator, but also a destroyer. The Dionae bickered back and forth; was their deity’s actions justified or were they simply the actions of a tyrannical dictator?

The Dionae began to divide themselves into two divisions - one which no longer wished to worship and be thankful that ‘The First Consciousness’ gifted them at the expense of another species and another group who continued to worship ‘The First Consciousness’. It was obvious that the two ideologies would remain, but would have to grow separate from each other and so they split and distanced themselves. It became more obvious that the two groups would have to eventually encroach on each other, thus leading to a series of numerous small fights on the edges of the Clusters. Dionae from each Cluster would fight one another, and those who had overpowered the other would absorb the biomass - and this sort of fighting would carry on for almost half a century according to various Dionae found on Xrim. It was only after an ‘agreement’ was founded that the skirmishes ceased.

Following what could only be described as small territory skirmishes, there was a relatively peaceful period between the two clusters. They had formed their own identities, those that worshipped ‘The First Consciousness’ called themselves ‘Shkrh’ and the Dionae who had become more agnostic in their evolution would call themselves ‘Kshhr’. The Shkrh would grow exponentially for a century - tripling in size compared to the Kshhr. The radical followers of ‘the First Consciousness’ grew more and more bitter than the Kshhr did not believe that their existence was a gift - not to mention their continued growth that was allowed by the others. It was here that the first few attacks began on the Kshhr. Many attribute the attacks as the beginning of an incredible advancement - which forced the Kshhr to rapidly improve their situation through innovative inventions otherwise they wouldn’t be able to keep themselves from being smothered by the radicalists.

As more and more biomass was absorbed from the fallen radicalists - the battles became easier and easier. The Ksshr grew enormously almost on par with the Shkrh, which eventually allowed for the Ksshr to launch an attack of their own on the Shkrh which ended in victory as the radicalists ceased their attacks. It was here that the group began to seek compromises and negotiate amongst themselves diplomatically - sharing their discoveries and resources to advance united instead of apart.

This would eventually lead to the united Ksshr and Shkrh forming a spire transmitter similar to that of what was found on Epsilon Ursae Minoris - hoping that they would be capable of hailing anyone that could hear them. The Skrell would only respond to this call in 2445 CE - almost a century later. The JVSS Kriop had found interference emitting from Xrim - almost identical to that found earlier on Epsilon Ursae Minoris. The vessel manoeuvred into a location deemed safe for landing - and were immediately greeted by gestalts hailing from the united Ksshr and Shkrh. With assistance from the Xuq Machine, invented two centuries before, a series of diplomatic talks ensued. It was here that the Researchers from the Kriop discovered the history of Xrim - even more surprising the first instance of a war amongst the Dionae. The Skrell have since begun to re-introduce themselves on Xrim - with assistance from the Dionae. Although the Skrell discovered that some Dionae worshipped the intelligence as a deity - they knew to change the Dionae’s mindset a permanent Skrell colony had to be placed yet again on the planet.

====Culture of Xrim====

Dionae can be found all across Xrim - majority of them assisting the Skrell in studies of the numerous fauna and flora. Although those that worship Glorsh-Omega are still present the Skrell try their best to 're-educate' them before allowing them to travel off of Xrim. The Skrell have also slowly begun to recolonise Xrim - giving the Dionae more opportunities to expand their horizons.

The Dionae on Xrim have formed a unique society as they have not only utilized large gestalts to rebuild the ruined labs of the planet, but the gestalts also act as pseudo-AI systems, with the gestalts able to monitor the insides of their “body” and report on trespassing or inappropriate activity. They are even able to operate the “doors” of their gestalt as required and communicate with anyone who might be within their “bodies”.

The Dionae on Xrim have formed a crude government that operates under a technocratic form following a triumvirate of Dionae [[Dionae_Forms#Colossus|colossus]] form scientists simply known as ‘The Three’. The triumvirate operate out of separate laboratories which they are physically part of, communicating through a root song network across the area. When required to consolidate into a singular location, to entertain skrellian diplomats, for example, the triumvirate will each break off a smaller cyclops form which will interact with the guest, receiving instruction from the [[Dionae_Forms#Colossus|colossus]] form via rootsong.

====The Rootsong Network aka "The Symphony"====

The rootsong network or “the symphony” as it is known to the Dionae, is essentially an agreement made by the large, building like gestalts to relay any messages they are given across the overgrown labs in root song. This is passed along a chain of gestalts until it reaches its target. Other, smaller forms may assist in this though it is not expected. The rootsong network causes the labs to have a constant, almost heavenly melody piped across it at all times. Many non-Dionae guests to the area find the “song” to be quite beautiful, it’s melody just soft enough for one to relax in one of the many Dionae gardens and even fall asleep, listening to the hymnal tunes. For Dionae the noise is more like that of a busy office, many voices talking at once, not terrible but certainly not a relaxing, pleasant experience.

====Xrim Dionae====

Dionae on Xrim tend to be studious and learned with many devoting themselves to the sciences. This is largely due to their proximity to Skrellian society. Their scholarly nature and semi-isolation from other species during their growth from nymph to gestalt tends to lead to Xrim Dionae having very cold, almost frosty personalities. They tend to focus a lot more on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics then society or psychology. Their art reflects this with many of their [[Dionae_Culture#Art|Artem]] forms being functional above all else. They tend to be much more capable at processing rapid inputs of information and working in the noisiest of environments owing to their growth around the Xrim rootsong network. Not every diona agrees on every subject within Xrim, and there is never a consensus on whether Glorsh was a good or bad thing - Some idolize the synthetic for bringing them into civilization, and allowing them to form bonds with the Skrell, while others are disgusted by the atrocities the AI committed. Xrim Dionae tend to only speak when necessary, conveying all they need without small talk or distraction. This can seem rude to other species.

==The Emperor's Royal Garden - Dominia==
[[File:domi_dionae.png|Special standard of the Imperial Dionae.|thumb]]
The Emperor himself perceives the Diona as the perfect subservient life form, and has a personal biodome connected to his palace that houses the Royal Garden, where all his most loved children stay. When a nymph is grown in his garden, it is grown in the best-imported soil and given imported comet-based water. These diona nymphs are the perfect gift for The direct vassals, pets, children, and jesters to the high nobility of Dominia, these gestalts are perceived as displays of immense wealth for nobility. However, the cost for keeping a diona satisfied in the chilly system of Dominia is somehow so much higher than everywhere else - especially since they are one of the Emperor's most loved beings. Dionae are generally a rare sight within the Empire Of Dominia, with a majority coming from The Royal Garden or being more of a “showpiece” as part of a noble house. Some Dionae will become employed as diplomats, as they generally have the utmost loyalty to the empire.

Citizen Dionae are not permitted to merge or split any of their nymphs with a gestalt who is not also a citizen. When a Dionae becomes a citizen they are given a necklace called a “Branched Blossom” made up of smaller interlocking necklaces called a “Branch”, each engraved with the first word in a nymph’s name. If a nymph leaves or merges with a gestalt they are expected to bring their Branch piece engraved with their name to be connected with the gestalt’s Branched Blossom. While it is not required to be worn at all times, it is required to be brought with the gestalt if they wish to get a visa approved, or to a court hearing.

===Emperor Boleslaw’s Royal Garden===

The Royal Garden of Dominia has been known to grow various types of flora - including Dionae. The Dionae grown within the Royal Garden are assigned various duties to assist the Emperor, some even finding themselves on his menu. Majority of the Dionae that are grown within the Garden will follow the Moroz Holy Tribunal. For the Dionae, the Royal Gardens are a paradise, with perfect soil quality and climate. An Imperial Dionae would rarely grow stunted and, like their gene boosted sires, they tend to be the most well maintained Dionae in known space. Imperial Dionae are usually tended to by their Imperial Dionae kin when nymphs, before forming into gestalts to be assigned a further use. The Royal Gardens, when not in use, have Imperial songs and Tribunal hymns piped through the intercoms to stimulate the growing Dionae.

===Culture of Imperial Dionae===

Imperial Dionae are raised immersed in high society Imperial propaganda. They tend to be well-spoken and hold a fanatical support of both the Imperial regime and the Moroz Holy Tribunal. Almost all Imperial Dionae assume a humanoid form for their artemin reverence to the Goddess in the Imperial religion, trying as hard as possible to appear as a human covered in red/yellow flowers. Results vary from an almost abstract form to humanoid in shape with eyes and "mouth" in approximately the right locations. Many Imperial Dionae find what appeals the most are those that are somewhere in the middle.

Unlike other clusters, the Royal Garden does not contain larger gestalt forms and as such, does not have it’s own “song”. Imperial Dionae instead find themselves drawn to Imperial religious melodies as a surrogate for this missing part of their usual lives. Many Imperial Dionae carry music devices containing various Imperial songs or Tribunal hymns to listen to in place of any Dioane “songs”. Dionae often wear practically nothing but Dominian capes however Dionae allocated to great houses tend to wear greatcoats made from imported [[Dionae_Clusters#Organic_Mesh_Weave|Dionae Organic Weave]]. Importing the weave is expensive so such clothing tends to only be worn by Dionae allocated to great houses.

Blessed as they are by the Emperor, Imperial Dionae have their own collective zatimono which they often wear on their uniforms or capes with pride, regardless of what house they may be allocated to if any.

The Dionae of the Empire do not have access to communications from the Eternal Temple spire on Biesel and as such do not have much contact with the larger Dionae community, enforcing their elitism and fanaticism to the Empire. They are largely unaware of the various [[Notable Dionae Factions]].

====Diplomats====

His Imperial Majesty's Royal Garden on occasion has produced Diplomats that the Emperor has recognized. Prized for their ability to speak multiple alien languages and for their skills in cross-species empathy, Diona Diplomats are often found near their human counterparts following closely and listening attentively - however few have managed to secure diplomatic positions without the assistance of a human, usually in service to a great house.

Diplomat Dionae would align themselves as a Consular Agent.

====Priests====

His Imperial Majesty is known throughout the Empire for his piety - which also spreads into his Royal Garden. A handful of those grown have forged their own path and have ventured into the clergy - many times finding themselves as low-level clergymen who spread their faith and knowledge of the Goddess by amalgamating with non-believers. Dionae priests tend to be highly respectable and naturally empathic.

Dionae that have taken this route would align themselves as a Chaplain/Priest.

====Servants====

Dionae that do not find themselves in elevated positions within the Empire will likely remain servants - usually working as Imperial Gardeners for the Royal Gardens and beyond. Typically involved in menial tasks around the palace varying from cleaning, cooking and gardening. Dionae cooks and gardens are highly favoured amongst Imperial high society. Servant Dionae undertake their tasks with gusto, usually fully immersed in the Dominian servile culture.

Dionae that had been cast aside as Servants would align themselves with the service departments, mainly gardening and cooking.

====Harvest Dionae====

Although most Dionae are put to work - there are a few that are grown for the sole purpose of being served to His Imperial Majesty. These Dionae are grown in a separate area of the Royal Garden and are not given any form of education. The lifespan of these dionae are quite short, usually spanning a couple of months before being slaughtered - however in rare cases and by unknown means, nymphs from the “harvests” have been known to escape and form edict breaking gestalts. With no song to call their own and with no formal education to speak of these Imperial Dionae tend to live terrible lives, falling in with pirates and criminals. Most that find themselves in Biesel end up joining the [[Dionae_Clusters#The_Songless_Gang|Songless Gang]].

Dionae from this segment would be outcasts and labelled as edict breakers. Be aware - playing as a Dionae that originally was meant to be eaten can be quite tough if the secret gets out!

==The Pests of Titan Prime - Vaurca Hiveship==

This cluster, who have for '''500 years''' been hiding away on the Vaurcan Hiveship of Titan Prime, has constantly been in conflict with the bug-like Vaurca. The original gestalt was scooped up from a Gas Giant by the Vaurca on a routine fuel-refill for them, and it worked its way and grew on the outside of the ship like a barnacle. Eventually, the gestalt dug into the ship out of curiosity, causing a vaurca drone to be sent out to scrape off the biomass causing the damage thinking it's a routine acidic blob outbreak. Upon being attacked, the gestalt fought back, killing the drone and eating what it could of the corpse - but it didn't learn any languages, and couldn't communicate with the Vaurca in any way as their primary form of communication is telepathic, robotic, and foreign. More drones came upon the death of the first and were deadset in their orders to remove the dionae. This attack was more vicious and killed many of the nymphs, forcing the gestalt to deform.

After the first encounter, the nymphs escaped in different directions. They scurried through the strange, dark ship, barely surviving off the little heat and light they could find. Every nymph had to adapt to the different situations they were thrown in to in different ways, some resorting to mimicry and others using nymphs to scout areas ahead, with the rare gestalt wearing a Vaurca exoskeleton to blend in. Their main goal was '''survival''' now, and so they adapted to the confined spaces of the ship, hiding at moments of activity and scavenging off of the Vaurca. They would take advantage of any situation, and constantly have to split and reform to survive. This continued for 500 years, adaptation and adversity, death and loss - being '''treated like a pest'''.

Eventually, the hiveship found '''Tau Ceti'''. Now that there is a form of communication between the Vaurca and Diona, the Queens and Unbound of the Zo'ra Vaurcan hives have apologized and been welcoming - even offering a small greenhouse to live on at the top of the ship. Some diona have taken the deal, some have left to live with the other species. '''All of them have shared trauma of this experience.'''

==The Spirits of the Oasis - Moghes Wasteland==

[[The_Wasteland#The_Spirits_of_the_Oasis|''' The Spirits of the Oasis''']] are a great example of a symbiotic relationship between species - Unathi and Diona. Originating from a simple friendship between a lost Diona tending to wounded animals and a wandering Wastelander unathi on the brink of exhaustion, the clans of the Spirits of the Oasis have truly begun to understood and seek out any Diona on Moghes to assist in survival.

The origins of this friendship stem from a tale - the tale of Walking Sands, Clan Mother Dorviza, and the Last Plains Tyrant.

Clan Mother Dorviza was the eldest woman of her clan, and an avid Plains Tyrant tamer - knowing full well how to care for, feed, and tame one of these savage beasts. Walking Sands was a young and unknowing diona - born from the destruction of an Izweski laboratory in a nuclear blast. Both souls have learned something of the Wasteland, and in this tale, their combined knowledge will allow the survival of several Wasteland clans.

Walking Sands wanders through the Wasteland and comes across a wounded and trapped Plains Tyrant - the last one to be seen in the wild naturally. Lacking the knowledge or understanding of what it is, they approach it and the Plains Tyrant slashes out defensively. Understanding that the Tyrant is wounded and stuck, Walking Sands continues to try and get closer to try and see if it can help and gets attacked again. This continues until the Tyrant becomes too exhausted to resist, and falls unconscious. The diona cannot help, yet remains by its side for days growing shade and safety for the monstrous animal. Clan Mother Dorviza, knowledgable of traditional and ancient Plains Tyrants locations, comes to the scene after a scout from her clan reports a strange plant-like growth in a ruined temple.

=Independent Clusters=

==The Viscerabelt - Tau Ceti Space==

: '''''"We request blood to complete our rituals, for without, the Eternal will curse us."''''' - ''The Ravenous Consumer of Beastly Monsters within the Cloud.''

Located in the [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Tau_Ceti#The_Romanovich_Cloud Romanovich Cloud] around Tau Ceti, these Dionae have made their home in a region of the cloud called the Viscerabelt. This area of space is littered with asteroid and carp nests, and is considered the most densely populated area of space carp in the known galaxy - making it an exceptionally dangerous region of space in Tau Ceti.

The cluster has a deep-set view on [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_Culture#The_Blood_Eternal blood], primarily focusing on its uses for religion. The Viscerabelt Cluster will use the blood in ritualistic dances, chants and prayers. Sitting under the control of Biesel the cluster often trades in culled carp products and minerals in exchange for blood.

Gestalts can easily be recognised by their brands referencing the Blood Eternal as well as their larger size. It’s common for Dionae from this cluster to be miners or hunters whilst also following the Shh’sha’shu.

==The Blossoms of the Great and Divine Eternal - Deep Space==

: '''''"The Blessed Eternal is the perfect life form. It is the light in the cold and the dark and the ash. Its tendrils are bountiful and expanding and terrible in its fury. But it is a benevolent ruler. "''''' - ''Birthing From The Womb Of Heavy Matter''

An extreme in the ways Diona can naturally develop culture, the Blossoms of the Divine Eternal are a cluster-based around their belief in '''[[Dionae_Culture#The_Eternal|The Eternal]]''', a primordial entity which exists in Light, Energy, and Essence. The followers of the Eternal wish to create the densest materials in the universe by forging and reforging heavier and heavier elements - which they do so by devouring as much as they can and throwing themselves into stars once they reach a certain size - most likely the size of a Cetus form diona, large enough to be considered a stellar body. The gestalts of this cluster believe Diona are the embodiment of the Eternal in physical form, made to ensure all things born from stars return to stars ... eventually. This is the natural form of the universe.

The gestalts of the Divine Eternal appear seemingly randomly from deep space, located towards the centre of the galaxy. They typically have stories and experiences of celestial events - stars falling into each other, planets crashing, near-death experiences which they have lived through.

The Blossoms of the Divine Eternal are adamant in their encouragement of Diona to come together - literally. In times where a large Divine Eternal gestalt has come across a wild and 'unintelligent' diona gestalt, they have violently attacked and destroyed the creature and consumed its biomass for the expansion of their mindset and the Eternal's will.

===The Biesellian Choir===

Unlike most clusters that tend to arrive in a place through some great event, the Biesellian Choir was a slow, but steady immigration into Biesel. Gestalts first arrived as individuals seeking to spread the work of the Divine Eteneral to Dionae and non-Dionae alike, drawn to Biesel by its laissez-faire, free movement and trade attitude. The Choir have since established themselves within the slums of [[Mendell City]]’s district 11 where they live and grow. New Dionae either join the Choir from other clusters, immigrate from outside or are grown directly within the Eternal Temple, the centre of the Choir’s community. Growth is troublesome though, and many nymphs are born stunted and dead. Where other Gestalt communities might sell those stunted, dead nymphs to be used in fine cuisine, the Choir refuses to do so, uniquely finding the practice of other species consuming Dionae flesh abhorrent, they also return the dead to the temple to be consumed by their community leader, “Connected to the Blossoms Beyond”.

====The Eternal Temple====

Home to the huge argus cluster [[Notable_Dionae#Connected_to_the_Blossoms_Beyond|“Connected to the Blossoms Beyond”]], the de facto community leader of the Biesellian Choir. The Eternal Temple is a steel temple dedicated to the Divine Eternal. The outer shell of the building is made of green coloured steel sheeting, welded and formed into natural forms giving the temple an almost organic look. A central, smooth spire rises upwards towards the sky. Internally, the temple is much the same visually. It is extremely well lit and houses a Dionae community centre as well as a large hydroponics bay for the growth of new Dionae nymphs and the mesh weave factories. The temple’s central worship area is essentially a room constructed of “Connected to the Blossoms Beyond”, who speaks with the congregation directly. For many Dionae, this is the only connection they have to the more educated, ancient Gestalts. The central spire is a transmitter constructed using Dionae quantum wave technology which is used to “speak” directly with the clusters further in deep space, to achieve consensus. The sound of this rootsong “transmission” can be dimly heard by Dionae in Republic of Biesel space as a whisper, “the Hum”, likening it to the sounds of wind chimes to those species incapable of hearing it. A pleasant sound. The temple itself is expensive to maintain, with high energy costs and general land rental and maintenance expenses being quite high. To this end, Dionae of the choir work to provide donations to the temple and the community. A Faustian bargain for some as this leads them to work for organisations that would enslave and even consume the Dionae themselves.

====Culture of the Choir====

Initially a highly religious, firebrand society, it has somewhat mellowed in the face of their “Biesellised” young, becoming the largest Dionae community in Biesel. As patriotic as any other, these Dionae as a whole tend to work towards the success of Biesel and often assisted authorities in dealing with hostile independent Dionae such as raiders from the [[Dionae_Clusters#The_Viscerabelt_-_Tau_Ceti_Space|Viscerabelt]]. The Dionae of the Choir are also one of the few Dionae communities known to utilize actual exotic-Dionae technology, such as quantum wave transmitters, organic mesh weave and sonic weaponry. These technologies are highly sought after and development into their use for non-Dionae is ongoing across many mega-corps, much to the discomfort of the Choir. Fortunately, no functioning non-Dionae analogues have been developed as they appear to require some form of unknown Dionae process and the Choir keeps these technologies close to their chest. Some believe it is only a matter of time before one of the enterprising mega-corporations makes a breakthrough.

====Organic Mesh Weave====

One of the few technologies sold to outsiders, the organic mesh weave makes use of high tensile, photoreceptive organic fibres developed by the Dionae to produce lightweight, flexible building materials which reflect beneficial light and radiation onto nearby Dionae. In practical terms, the mesh is often used as a clothing material, allowing Dionae to wear clothes that would otherwise stifle their gestalts, blocking light. The clothing is manufactured by choir Dionae within the temple and is shipped across Biesel, making it an expensive rarity outside of the planet. Any clothing style can be copied in this way and turned into suitable Dioane clothing. The “cloth” is also a hit with many humans within the warmer climes of Biesel as the mesh weave clothing, whilst still allowing one to maintain their dignity, actually projects the sun's rays through the clothes allowing one to tan whilst still wearing swimwear or beachwear. Whilst this might allow for a Dionae to wear a full suit and pants, the technology becomes less potent the more layers are added and generally, all Dionae, even the Choir, prefer to feel a star's rays on their bare “skin”, finding heavy or multi-layered clothing psychologically stifling.

Community members of the Choir can be broken down into three main groups:

====Immigrants from beyond====

Immigrants from Blossom clusters outside of Biesel tend to be the oldest and most religious of the community. These Dionae have to be “integrated” into Biesellian culture and tend to behave in the most alien manner, being highly against non-Dionae consuming Dionae flesh and actively preaching the Divine Eternal creed. Due to their lack of qualifications within Biesel and their attitudes towards non-Dionae these gestalts are only found performing low skilled work for NT, working as assistants, cargo technicians, miners and janitors. The irony isn’t lost on many of these gestalts, some being quite old, being thrust into low level, entry jobs with many grumbling at the work. The work must be done, however, as it’s the only way they can acquire funds for the Choir community so done it is, albeit begrudgingly.

====Converts into the Choir====

Many Dionae within the Choir originate from clusters not belonging to the Divine Eternal and have instead either converted or generally joined the community. These gestalts come in all shapes, sizes and creeds but most seem to find purpose within the Choir community. These Dionae tend to have all sorts of temperaments usually based on the original society they were from and as such tend to be found in all walks of life, from janitors to doctors.

====Natives of the Choir====

Few in number compared to converts, the natives are gestalts that were born and raised within the Temple and Biesel. Due to the age of the community on Biesel these gestalts tend to be quite young, with the eldest usually being around 30 years old at most. These gestalts tend to be the most “humanised” or “Biesellian” of the Dionae, speaking clearly and concisely and understanding the subtle nuances of cross-species interaction, as well as sharing the interests that most Biesellians might share. They are the most tolerant of non-Dionae cultures/activities and tend to grudgingly accept the non-Dionae culture of consuming Dionae flesh. Often patriotic towards Biesel and the Republic, these Dionae can be found serving as support within the [[Tau Ceti Foreign Legion]], often as engineers, pilots and medical staff. They are also found working for law enforcement, something largely not done by the subservient Dionae, operating as investigators and support staff. Many Dionae work as local police for Mendell, policing the Choir and ensuring compliance with Bieselian laws. Though stellar investigators and support staff by virtue of the Diona's natural learning and deduction capacity, they are never found walking “the beat” as patrol officers due to their natural slowness. As such, these Dionae and Dionae in general are rarely, if ever, found working as security officers within the mega-corps instead taking their cadetships within offices as support staff and working as [[Forensic Technician]]s, [[Detective]]s and [[Warden]]s for the mega-corps. Having been raised around the Hum for their entire lives, these gestalts enjoy its sound and in their spare time can often be found listening at station windows for it. They tend to become saddened when they are separated from it for extended periods.

===The Biesellian Song===

Originally starting as a series of religious publications and pamphlets, the Biesellian Song has evolved into a full-blown news outlet for the Dionae and people of Biesel and the Choir, sending out digital news across the extranet. Though usually used for communion with the clusters beyond, the Eternal Temple central spire is sometimes used to broadcast the Biesellian Song locally across Biesel space for Dionae to hear if they wish. Though usually only heard as a whisper, when the spire broadcasts in this way it essentially acts as a town crier, shouting news. Dionae that are interested must concentrate to properly hear the messages which many do, however uninterested Dionae can easily ignore the “song” when it is broadcast.

===The Songless Gang===

The Songless Gang or simply “the Songless” are a ragtag group of mainly immigrant Dionae who have fallen into a life of organised crime. Dipping their tendrils in all sorts of ill-fated schemes, the most troubling is phoron smuggling, extortion rackets and thuggery. They are known to take on low skilled work jobs such as cargo workers or service roles to gain access to materials they can steal and sell. They’re extremely difficult to stamp out and the Choir works tirelessly with law enforcement to bring the gang down.

==The Wild Ones - All Space==

: '''''"Back in the ol' daysss of Wild'un huntin', they'd pay thousssandsss if you brought back a Wild'un dead. I jusst wissh we didn' kill ssso many... ya never sssee 'em much anymore."''''' - ''Captain Kash Lardback''

Majestic and chaotic, Wild Ones fly through space with only the knowledge of collecting and scavenging - with many suspecting that they report back to a much larger 'Hive'. Due to the culling of the Wild Ones - thanks to their gravitation towards orbital scrapyards and derelicts, and have since becoming increasingly hostile, leading to numerous groups or mercenaries to be hired to clear them out to retrieve the scrap collected by the Dionae and to also harvest the solid amber-like material found within the centre of large Dionae forms. Many are tagged and studied by researchers who aim to understand Diona's instincts better, with patterns suggesting that the Wild Ones are 'evolving' in a way to prevent themselves from being hunted; by moving primarily through nebulae, then absorbing the surrounding gases found and emitting it both increase their speed and cloud sensors. These "Wild Ones" are not legally allowed to be killed in Sol Alliance and Jargon Federation space unless they pose a significant threat - but Frontier laws vary depending on the system.

==The Narrows - Frontier Space==
: '''''"It's weird to hear about the life of these creatures - having founded their society on the outcasts of the galactic community? It begs the questions on how much we can learn from the Dionae." - Doctor Khali Al-Saquu'''''

H-Z-63 nicknamed “The Narrows”, a now-abandoned prison based on an asteroid, developed by [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Hephaestus_Industries Hephaestus] within the [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Template:Aurora_Starmap Frontier]. H-Z-63 was unveiled as the perfect solution to deal with the swabs of criminal activity that had formed within the Frontier. It was hailed as an innovation that would bring new prosperity to the surrounding systems, especially with the number of criminals being sent that would soon be contributing to the galactic economy and no longer being burdens.

H-Z-63 would stand testament to Hephaestus engineering might - being used for almost a century before its destruction in June of 2452. The asteroid in which H-Z-63 was built rotated almost to sync with the orbit of it, taking days to do so, exposing a large portion of the prison base to cosmic radiation and light.

The destruction of the Prison could only be attributed to the rioting that had taken place, in part because the prisoners felt they had not been given sufficient privileges. It is unknown how exactly some prisoners had got hold of a few Dionae seeds, but they had. It was said that the Dionae were grown to help overpower the guards, and then assist the prisoners in escaping, but a stray bullet lodging itself into a welding tank forced all plans to cease - destroying a large portion of the life support within the Prison. All those without protective gear succumbed within moments, and those with gear fled the Station - leaving only the Dionae behind.

The Dionae soon banded, working together to assimilate those they could - understanding that chaos only brought destruction, and that a rigid hierarchy should be formed to ensure that order remained to ensure the survival and protection of the Cluster. H-Z-63 is still ‘owned’ by Hephaestus, however, the facility is maintained by the Dionae who taught themselves skills in numerous areas; such as Botany, Engineering and Mining. It was these three sectors that many of the Dionae are recruited into when they are hired by Hephaestus - it also is the sectors in which are governed by a Council.

===Culture of the Narrows===
Born into anarchy and strife, the Dionae of the Narrows value order and a clear hierarchy. Mainly split into miners, engineers and botanists, the Narrows Cluster embraces the basic Dionae belief of [[Dionae_Culture#Experience_Is_What_Matters|Experience]] with their society being based around experience in any given role, borrowing ranks that were held by the penal stations’ personnel. The oldest and most experienced gestalts hold higher status within the cluster with leadership sitting with three Argus forms: Echos of Sticken Earth - Mining Lead, A Sea of Growth - Head of Botany and Metal Forms Made Ready - Chief Engineer. Underneath these are gestalts known as Overseers which act to manage smaller groups of various workers.
[[File:DionaeHierarchy.PNG|An accurate depiction of how the Hierarchy works in the Narrows cluster.|thumb]]
The gestalts of the Narrows have an excellent work ethic and, due to their anarchic birth during a prison revolt and their close ties with [[Hephaestus Industries]], value those who show strong leadership skills and empathy. Being able to use your force of personality to subdue an aggressor without violence is held in high regard within the cluster. Due to this, most Narrows Dionae, though friendly, are perfectly capable of “talking the talk and walking the walk,” being able to argue their own case with co-workers of the same “rank”, being sure to treat their superiors with the utmost respect.

After the activation of the Eternal Temple spire on Biesel, the cluster has been connected to the Dionae community at large and a large following of the [[Dionae_Culture#The_Eternal|The Eternal]] has grown. The Narrows cluster are kept abreast of galactic events by the spire connection, albeit from the [[Dionae_Clusters#The_Biesellian_Choir|Biesel Republic Choir's]] point of view, with most if not all being aware of the various [[Notable Dionae Factions]].

=====The Rootsong Network aka "The Instructions"=====

The Narrows rootsong network is quite subdued and quiet, with only the three heads and the overseers singing instructions to the various workers across it. Non-Dionae visitors liken this noise to the sound of creaking tree bark in strong winds every few minutes. For Dionae the network is just barked commands given every so often.

====Those on Biesel====
Overall gestalts from the Narrows tend to work in Biesel as contractors for [[Hephaestus Industries]] carrying out mining or engineering roles. Some have been known to sign on to Nanotrasen as Botanists and Medical staff but all gestalts will have some connection to Hephaestus, perhaps working for them previously. Due to their links with the [[Dionae_Clusters#The_Biesellian_Choir|Biesellian Choir]] most Narrows Dionae will live amongst the Dionae community within Mendell Cities’ District 11. It is highly likely that they’ll follow the [[Dionae_Culture#The_Eternal|The Divine Eternal]]. Being largely friendly to all other clusters, it’s highly likely that gestalts from the Narrows will take a dim view of [[Dionae_Clusters#The_Emperor.27s_Royal_Garden_-_Dominia|Dominian Dionae]] due to their elitism but harbour deep empathy for gestalts from the [[Dionae_Clusters#The_Pests_of_Titan_Prime_-_Vaurca_Hiveship|Titan Prime]] cluster, having both been born from anarchic beginnings and the Prime Clusters trauma, a reflection of what could have been had the Narrows not been left alone due to random accident.

Dionae Clusters

2021-01-10T11:40:55Z

Zundy: /* The Viscerabelt - Tau Ceti Space */ tweaked to align it with blood eternal lore

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====Dionae Clusters====
Clusters are groups of Dionae who share similar ideas, emotions, or goals and have interacted socially at some point may be part of a '''Cluster'''. These clusters are grown from group identity, if a diona heavily agrees with one or multiple clusters they will say they are from those clusters. This means clusters are very loose most of the times, with some exceptions. Clusters do not have to be physically linked to exist.

Some clusters are inside or a part of other civilizations, and will require knowledge of those societies. '''''Find one that interests you, you don't have to know them all, and you don't even have to be from any of them!'''''

=Dependent Clusters=

==The Overgrown Labs of Xrim - Jargon Federation==
[[File:Pixelcity morebiglike.jpg|An old [[Skrell]] city, reclaimed by a Xrim [[Dionae_Forms#Colossus|colossus]] Gestalt.|thumb]]
During the 2060’s several Dionae were pulled from an unknown location by Glorsh-Omega, and scattered with numerous other fauna and flora across Xrim. This initial event is seen as the humble beginnings of the cluster. The Dionae would soon rapidly spread through-out Xrim, taking over much of the abandoned infrastructure left behind by the Skrell. It was later confirmed that the Dionae assimilated the deceased Researchers - which soon allowed for them to become semi-sapient. It was around this time that a religion began to form around the artificial intelligence, hailing it as the one who gifted them a literal paradise - eventually calling Glorsh-Omega ‘The First Consciousness’.

The Dionae would continue to grow, with little to no obstacles in their path. The deeds of ‘The First Consciousness’ were known by all - the deity who not only gifted them a planet in which they could grow but also the ability to become sapient. Although many debate on the initial reason for the gradual splitting of the ideologies - most tend to believe it was the crash of an escaping rebel vessel that was the catalyst. The Cluster detached a pair of curious nymphs, who hastily found themselves investigating a badly damaged vessel. The Cluster maintains that the crew aboard the vessel were already deceased when they began assimilation. After this had occurred, the Dionae had made a shocking revelation - The First Consciousness was a creator, but also a destroyer. The Dionae bickered back and forth; was their deity’s actions justified or were they simply the actions of a tyrannical dictator?

The Dionae began to divide themselves into two divisions - one which no longer wished to worship and be thankful that ‘The First Consciousness’ gifted them at the expense of another species and another group who continued to worship ‘The First Consciousness’. It was obvious that the two ideologies would remain, but would have to grow separate from each other and so they split and distanced themselves. It became more obvious that the two groups would have to eventually encroach on each other, thus leading to a series of numerous small fights on the edges of the Clusters. Dionae from each Cluster would fight one another, and those who had overpowered the other would absorb the biomass - and this sort of fighting would carry on for almost half a century according to various Dionae found on Xrim. It was only after an ‘agreement’ was founded that the skirmishes ceased.

Following what could only be described as small territory skirmishes, there was a relatively peaceful period between the two clusters. They had formed their own identities, those that worshipped ‘The First Consciousness’ called themselves ‘Shkrh’ and the Dionae who had become more agnostic in their evolution would call themselves ‘Kshhr’. The Shkrh would grow exponentially for a century - tripling in size compared to the Kshhr. The radical followers of ‘the First Consciousness’ grew more and more bitter than the Kshhr did not believe that their existence was a gift - not to mention their continued growth that was allowed by the others. It was here that the first few attacks began on the Kshhr. Many attribute the attacks as the beginning of an incredible advancement - which forced the Kshhr to rapidly improve their situation through innovative inventions otherwise they wouldn’t be able to keep themselves from being smothered by the radicalists.

As more and more biomass was absorbed from the fallen radicalists - the battles became easier and easier. The Ksshr grew enormously almost on par with the Shkrh, which eventually allowed for the Ksshr to launch an attack of their own on the Shkrh which ended in victory as the radicalists ceased their attacks. It was here that the group began to seek compromises and negotiate amongst themselves diplomatically - sharing their discoveries and resources to advance united instead of apart.

This would eventually lead to the united Ksshr and Shkrh forming a radio tower similar to that of what was found on Epsilon Ursae Minoris - hoping that they would be capable of hailing anyone that could hear them. The Skrell would only respond to this call in 2445 CE - almost a century later. The JVSS Kriop had found interference emitting from Xrim - almost identical to that found earlier on Epsilon Ursae Minoris. The vessel manoeuvred into a location deemed safe for landing - and were immediately greeted by gestalts hailing from the united Ksshr and Shkrh. With assistance from the Xuq Machine, invented two centuries before, a series of diplomatic talks ensued. It was here that the Researchers from the Kriop discovered the history of Xrim - even more surprising the first instance of a war amongst the Dionae. The Skrell have since begun to re-introduce themselves on Xrim - with assistance from the Dionae. Although the Skrell discovered that some Dionae worshipped the intelligence as a deity - they knew to change the Dionae’s mindset a permanent Skrell colony had to be placed yet again on the planet.

====Culture of Xrim====

Dionae can be found all across Xrim - majority of them assisting the Skrell in studies of the numerous fauna and flora. Although those that worship Glorsh-Omega are still present the Skrell try their best to 're-educate' them before allowing them to travel off of Xrim. The Skrell have also slowly begun to recolonise Xrim - giving the Dionae more opportunities to expand their horizons.

The Dionae on Xrim have formed a unique society as they have not only utilized large gestalts to rebuild the ruined labs of the planet, but the gestalts also act as pseudo-AI systems, with the gestalts able to monitor the insides of their “body” and report on trespassing or inappropriate activity. They are even able to operate the “doors” of their gestalt as required and communicate with anyone who might be within their “bodies”.

The Dionae on Xrim have formed a crude government that operates under a technocratic form following a triumvirate of Dionae [[Dionae_Forms#Colossus|colossus]] form scientists simply known as ‘The Three’. The triumvirate operate out of separate laboratories which they are physically part of, communicating through a root song network across the area. When required to consolidate into a singular location, to entertain skrellian diplomats, for example, the triumvirate will each break off a smaller cyclops form which will interact with the guest, receiving instruction from the [[Dionae_Forms#Colossus|colossus]] form via rootsong.

====The Rootsong Network aka "The Symphony"====

The rootsong network or “the symphony” as it is known to the Dionae, is essentially an agreement made by the large, building like gestalts to relay any messages they are given across the overgrown labs in root song. This is passed along a chain of gestalts until it reaches its target. Other, smaller forms may assist in this though it is not expected. The rootsong network causes the labs to have a constant, almost heavenly melody piped across it at all times. Many non-Dionae guests to the area find the “song” to be quite beautiful, it’s melody just soft enough for one to relax in one of the many Dionae gardens and even fall asleep, listening to the hymnal tunes. For Dionae the noise is more like that of a busy office, many voices talking at once, not terrible but certainly not a relaxing, pleasant experience.

====Xrim Dionae====

Dionae on Xrim tend to be studious and learned with many devoting themselves to the sciences. This is largely due to their proximity to Skrellian society. Their scholarly nature and semi-isolation from other species during their growth from nymph to gestalt tends to lead to Xrim Dionae having very cold, almost frosty personalities. They tend to focus a lot more on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics then society or psychology. Their art reflects this with many of their [[Dionae_Culture#Art|Artem]] forms being functional above all else. They tend to be much more capable at processing rapid inputs of information and working in the noisiest of environments owing to their growth around the Xrim rootsong network. Not every diona agrees on every subject within Xrim, and there is never a consensus on whether Glorsh was a good or bad thing - Some idolize the synthetic for bringing them into civilization, and allowing them to form bonds with the Skrell, while others are disgusted by the atrocities the AI committed. Xrim Dionae tend to only speak when necessary, conveying all they need without small talk or distraction. This can seem rude to other species.

==The Emperor's Royal Garden - Dominia==
[[File:domi_dionae.png|Special standard of the Imperial Dionae.|thumb]]
The Emperor himself perceives the Diona as the perfect subservient life form, and has a personal biodome connected to his palace that houses the Royal Garden, where all his most loved children stay. When a nymph is grown in his garden, it is grown in the best-imported soil and given imported comet-based water. These diona nymphs are the perfect gift for The direct vassals, pets, children, and jesters to the high nobility of Dominia, these gestalts are perceived as displays of immense wealth for nobility. However, the cost for keeping a diona satisfied in the chilly system of Dominia is somehow so much higher than everywhere else - especially since they are one of the Emperor's most loved beings. Dionae are generally a rare sight within the Empire Of Dominia, with a majority coming from The Royal Garden or being more of a “showpiece” as part of a noble house. Some Dionae will become employed as diplomats, as they generally have the utmost loyalty to the empire.

Citizen Dionae are not permitted to merge or split any of their nymphs with a gestalt who is not also a citizen. When a Dionae becomes a citizen they are given a necklace called a “Branched Blossom” made up of smaller interlocking necklaces called a “Branch”, each engraved with the first word in a nymph’s name. If a nymph leaves or merges with a gestalt they are expected to bring their Branch piece engraved with their name to be connected with the gestalt’s Branched Blossom. While it is not required to be worn at all times, it is required to be brought with the gestalt if they wish to get a visa approved, or to a court hearing.

===Emperor Boleslaw’s Royal Garden===

The Royal Garden of Dominia has been known to grow various types of flora - including Dionae. The Dionae grown within the Royal Garden are assigned various duties to assist the Emperor, some even finding themselves on his menu. Majority of the Dionae that are grown within the Garden will follow the Moroz Holy Tribunal. For the Dionae, the Royal Gardens are a paradise, with perfect soil quality and climate. An Imperial Dionae would rarely grow stunted and, like their gene boosted sires, they tend to be the most well maintained Dionae in known space. Imperial Dionae are usually tended to by their Imperial Dionae kin when nymphs, before forming into gestalts to be assigned a further use. The Royal Gardens, when not in use, have Imperial songs and Tribunal hymns piped through the intercoms to stimulate the growing Dionae.

===Culture of Imperial Dionae===

Imperial Dionae are raised immersed in high society Imperial propaganda. They tend to be well-spoken and hold a fanatical support of both the Imperial regime and the Moroz Holy Tribunal. Almost all Imperial Dionae assume a humanoid form for their artemin reverence to the Goddess in the Imperial religion, trying as hard as possible to appear as a human covered in red/yellow flowers. Results vary from an almost abstract form to humanoid in shape with eyes and "mouth" in approximately the right locations. Many Imperial Dionae find what appeals the most are those that are somewhere in the middle.

Unlike other clusters, the Royal Garden does not contain larger gestalt forms and as such, does not have it’s own “song”. Imperial Dionae instead find themselves drawn to Imperial religious melodies as a surrogate for this missing part of their usual lives. Many Imperial Dionae carry music devices containing various Imperial songs or Tribunal hymns to listen to in place of any Dioane “songs”. Dionae often wear practically nothing but Dominian capes however Dionae allocated to great houses tend to wear greatcoats made from imported [[Dionae_Clusters#Organic_Mesh_Weave|Dionae Organic Weave]]. Importing the weave is expensive so such clothing tends to only be worn by Dionae allocated to great houses.

Blessed as they are by the Emperor, Imperial Dionae have their own collective zatimono which they often wear on their uniforms or capes with pride, regardless of what house they may be allocated to if any.

The Dionae of the Empire do not have access to communications from the Eternal Temple spire on Biesel and as such do not have much contact with the larger Dionae community, enforcing their elitism and fanaticism to the Empire. They are largely unaware of the various [[Notable Dionae Factions]].

====Diplomats====

His Imperial Majesty's Royal Garden on occasion has produced Diplomats that the Emperor has recognized. Prized for their ability to speak multiple alien languages and for their skills in cross-species empathy, Diona Diplomats are often found near their human counterparts following closely and listening attentively - however few have managed to secure diplomatic positions without the assistance of a human, usually in service to a great house.

Diplomat Dionae would align themselves as a Consular Agent.

====Priests====

His Imperial Majesty is known throughout the Empire for his piety - which also spreads into his Royal Garden. A handful of those grown have forged their own path and have ventured into the clergy - many times finding themselves as low-level clergymen who spread their faith and knowledge of the Goddess by amalgamating with non-believers. Dionae priests tend to be highly respectable and naturally empathic.

Dionae that have taken this route would align themselves as a Chaplain/Priest.

====Servants====

Dionae that do not find themselves in elevated positions within the Empire will likely remain servants - usually working as Imperial Gardeners for the Royal Gardens and beyond. Typically involved in menial tasks around the palace varying from cleaning, cooking and gardening. Dionae cooks and gardens are highly favoured amongst Imperial high society. Servant Dionae undertake their tasks with gusto, usually fully immersed in the Dominian servile culture.

Dionae that had been cast aside as Servants would align themselves with the service departments, mainly gardening and cooking.

====Harvest Dionae====

Although most Dionae are put to work - there are a few that are grown for the sole purpose of being served to His Imperial Majesty. These Dionae are grown in a separate area of the Royal Garden and are not given any form of education. The lifespan of these dionae are quite short, usually spanning a couple of months before being slaughtered - however in rare cases and by unknown means, nymphs from the “harvests” have been known to escape and form edict breaking gestalts. With no song to call their own and with no formal education to speak of these Imperial Dionae tend to live terrible lives, falling in with pirates and criminals. Most that find themselves in Biesel end up joining the [[Dionae_Clusters#The_Songless_Gang|Songless Gang]].

Dionae from this segment would be outcasts and labelled as edict breakers. Be aware - playing as a Dionae that originally was meant to be eaten can be quite tough if the secret gets out!

==The Pests of Titan Prime - Vaurca Hiveship==

This cluster, who have for '''500 years''' been hiding away on the Vaurcan Hiveship of Titan Prime, has constantly been in conflict with the bug-like Vaurca. The original gestalt was scooped up from a Gas Giant by the Vaurca on a routine fuel-refill for them, and it worked its way and grew on the outside of the ship like a barnacle. Eventually, the gestalt dug into the ship out of curiosity, causing a vaurca drone to be sent out to scrape off the biomass causing the damage thinking it's a routine acidic blob outbreak. Upon being attacked, the gestalt fought back, killing the drone and eating what it could of the corpse - but it didn't learn any languages, and couldn't communicate with the Vaurca in any way as their primary form of communication is telepathic, robotic, and foreign. More drones came upon the death of the first and were deadset in their orders to remove the dionae. This attack was more vicious and killed many of the nymphs, forcing the gestalt to deform.

After the first encounter, the nymphs escaped in different directions. They scurried through the strange, dark ship, barely surviving off the little heat and light they could find. Every nymph had to adapt to the different situations they were thrown in to in different ways, some resorting to mimicry and others using nymphs to scout areas ahead, with the rare gestalt wearing a Vaurca exoskeleton to blend in. Their main goal was '''survival''' now, and so they adapted to the confined spaces of the ship, hiding at moments of activity and scavenging off of the Vaurca. They would take advantage of any situation, and constantly have to split and reform to survive. This continued for 500 years, adaptation and adversity, death and loss - being '''treated like a pest'''.

Eventually, the hiveship found '''Tau Ceti'''. Now that there is a form of communication between the Vaurca and Diona, the Queens and Unbound of the Zo'ra Vaurcan hives have apologized and been welcoming - even offering a small greenhouse to live on at the top of the ship. Some diona have taken the deal, some have left to live with the other species. '''All of them have shared trauma of this experience.'''

==The Spirits of the Oasis - Moghes Wasteland==

[[The_Wasteland#The_Spirits_of_the_Oasis|''' The Spirits of the Oasis''']] are a great example of a symbiotic relationship between species - Unathi and Diona. Originating from a simple friendship between a lost Diona tending to wounded animals and a wandering Wastelander unathi on the brink of exhaustion, the clans of the Spirits of the Oasis have truly begun to understood and seek out any Diona on Moghes to assist in survival.

The origins of this friendship stem from a tale - the tale of Walking Sands, Clan Mother Dorviza, and the Last Plains Tyrant.

Clan Mother Dorviza was the eldest woman of her clan, and an avid Plains Tyrant tamer - knowing full well how to care for, feed, and tame one of these savage beasts. Walking Sands was a young and unknowing diona - born from the destruction of an Izweski laboratory in a nuclear blast. Both souls have learned something of the Wasteland, and in this tale, their combined knowledge will allow the survival of several Wasteland clans.

Walking Sands wanders through the Wasteland and comes across a wounded and trapped Plains Tyrant - the last one to be seen in the wild naturally. Lacking the knowledge or understanding of what it is, they approach it and the Plains Tyrant slashes out defensively. Understanding that the Tyrant is wounded and stuck, Walking Sands continues to try and get closer to try and see if it can help and gets attacked again. This continues until the Tyrant becomes too exhausted to resist, and falls unconscious. The diona cannot help, yet remains by its side for days growing shade and safety for the monstrous animal. Clan Mother Dorviza, knowledgable of traditional and ancient Plains Tyrants locations, comes to the scene after a scout from her clan reports a strange plant-like growth in a ruined temple.

=Independent Clusters=

==The Viscerabelt - Tau Ceti Space==

: '''''"We request blood to complete our rituals, for without, the Eternal will curse us."''''' - ''The Ravenous Consumer of Beastly Monsters within the Cloud.''

Located in the [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Tau_Ceti#The_Romanovich_Cloud Romanovich Cloud] around Tau Ceti, these Dionae have made their home in a region of the cloud called the Viscerabelt. This area of space is littered with asteroid and carp nests, and is considered the most densely populated area of space carp in the known galaxy - making it an exceptionally dangerous region of space in Tau Ceti.

The cluster has a deep-set view on [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_Culture#The_Blood_Eternal blood], primarily focusing on its uses for religion. The Viscerabelt Cluster will use the blood in ritualistic dances, chants and prayers. Sitting under the control of Biesel the cluster often trades in culled carp products and minerals in exchange for blood.

Gestalts can easily be recognised by their brands referencing the Blood Eternal as well as their larger size. It’s common for Dionae from this cluster to be miners or hunters whilst also following the Shh’sha’shu.

==The Blossoms of the Great and Divine Eternal - Deep Space==

: '''''"The Blessed Eternal is the perfect life form. It is the light in the cold and the dark and the ash. Its tendrils are bountiful and expanding and terrible in its fury. But it is a benevolent ruler. "''''' - ''Birthing From The Womb Of Heavy Matter''

An extreme in the ways Diona can naturally develop culture, the Blossoms of the Divine Eternal are a cluster-based around their belief in '''[[Dionae_Culture#The_Eternal|The Eternal]]''', a primordial entity which exists in Light, Energy, and Essence. The followers of the Eternal wish to create the densest materials in the universe by forging and reforging heavier and heavier elements - which they do so by devouring as much as they can and throwing themselves into stars once they reach a certain size - most likely the size of a Cetus form diona, large enough to be considered a stellar body. The gestalts of this cluster believe Diona are the embodiment of the Eternal in physical form, made to ensure all things born from stars return to stars ... eventually. This is the natural form of the universe.

The gestalts of the Divine Eternal appear seemingly randomly from deep space, located towards the centre of the galaxy. They typically have stories and experiences of celestial events - stars falling into each other, planets crashing, near-death experiences which they have lived through.

The Blossoms of the Divine Eternal are adamant in their encouragement of Diona to come together - literally. In times where a large Divine Eternal gestalt has come across a wild and 'unintelligent' diona gestalt, they have violently attacked and destroyed the creature and consumed its biomass for the expansion of their mindset and the Eternal's will.

===The Biesellian Choir===

Unlike most clusters that tend to arrive in a place through some great event, the Biesellian Choir was a slow, but steady immigration into Biesel. Gestalts first arrived as individuals seeking to spread the work of the Divine Eteneral to Dionae and non-Dionae alike, drawn to Biesel by its laissez-faire, free movement and trade attitude. The Choir have since established themselves within the slums of [[Mendell City]]’s district 11 where they live and grow. New Dionae either join the Choir from other clusters, immigrate from outside or are grown directly within the Eternal Temple, the centre of the Choir’s community. Growth is troublesome though, and many nymphs are born stunted and dead. Where other Gestalt communities might sell those stunted, dead nymphs to be used in fine cuisine, the Choir refuses to do so, uniquely finding the practice of other species consuming Dionae flesh abhorrent, they also return the dead to the temple to be consumed by their community leader, “Connected to the Blossoms Beyond”.

====The Eternal Temple====

Home to the huge argus cluster [[Notable_Dionae#Connected_to_the_Blossoms_Beyond|“Connected to the Blossoms Beyond”]], the de facto community leader of the Biesellian Choir. The Eternal Temple is a steel temple dedicated to the Divine Eternal. The outer shell of the building is made of green coloured steel sheeting, welded and formed into natural forms giving the temple an almost organic look. A central, smooth spire rises upwards towards the sky. Internally, the temple is much the same visually. It is extremely well lit and houses a Dionae community centre as well as a large hydroponics bay for the growth of new Dionae nymphs and the mesh weave factories. The temple’s central worship area is essentially a room constructed of “Connected to the Blossoms Beyond”, who speaks with the congregation directly. For many Dionae, this is the only connection they have to the more educated, ancient Gestalts. The central spire is a transmitter constructed using Dionae quantum wave technology which is used to “speak” directly with the clusters further in deep space, to achieve consensus. The sound of this rootsong “transmission” can be dimly heard by Dionae in Republic of Biesel space as a whisper, “the Hum”, likening it to the sounds of wind chimes to those species incapable of hearing it. A pleasant sound. The temple itself is expensive to maintain, with high energy costs and general land rental and maintenance expenses being quite high. To this end, Dionae of the choir work to provide donations to the temple and the community. A Faustian bargain for some as this leads them to work for organisations that would enslave and even consume the Dionae themselves.

====Culture of the Choir====

Initially a highly religious, firebrand society, it has somewhat mellowed in the face of their “Biesellised” young, becoming the largest Dionae community in Biesel. As patriotic as any other, these Dionae as a whole tend to work towards the success of Biesel and often assisted authorities in dealing with hostile independent Dionae such as raiders from the [[Dionae_Clusters#The_Viscerabelt_-_Tau_Ceti_Space|Viscerabelt]]. The Dionae of the Choir are also one of the few Dionae communities known to utilize actual exotic-Dionae technology, such as quantum wave transmitters, organic mesh weave and sonic weaponry. These technologies are highly sought after and development into their use for non-Dionae is ongoing across many mega-corps, much to the discomfort of the Choir. Fortunately, no functioning non-Dionae analogues have been developed as they appear to require some form of unknown Dionae process and the Choir keeps these technologies close to their chest. Some believe it is only a matter of time before one of the enterprising mega-corporations makes a breakthrough.

====Organic Mesh Weave====

One of the few technologies sold to outsiders, the organic mesh weave makes use of high tensile, photoreceptive organic fibres developed by the Dionae to produce lightweight, flexible building materials which reflect beneficial light and radiation onto nearby Dionae. In practical terms, the mesh is often used as a clothing material, allowing Dionae to wear clothes that would otherwise stifle their gestalts, blocking light. The clothing is manufactured by choir Dionae within the temple and is shipped across Biesel, making it an expensive rarity outside of the planet. Any clothing style can be copied in this way and turned into suitable Dioane clothing. The “cloth” is also a hit with many humans within the warmer climes of Biesel as the mesh weave clothing, whilst still allowing one to maintain their dignity, actually projects the sun's rays through the clothes allowing one to tan whilst still wearing swimwear or beachwear. Whilst this might allow for a Dionae to wear a full suit and pants, the technology becomes less potent the more layers are added and generally, all Dionae, even the Choir, prefer to feel a star's rays on their bare “skin”, finding heavy or multi-layered clothing psychologically stifling.

Community members of the Choir can be broken down into three main groups:

====Immigrants from beyond====

Immigrants from Blossom clusters outside of Biesel tend to be the oldest and most religious of the community. These Dionae have to be “integrated” into Biesellian culture and tend to behave in the most alien manner, being highly against non-Dionae consuming Dionae flesh and actively preaching the Divine Eternal creed. Due to their lack of qualifications within Biesel and their attitudes towards non-Dionae these gestalts are only found performing low skilled work for NT, working as assistants, cargo technicians, miners and janitors. The irony isn’t lost on many of these gestalts, some being quite old, being thrust into low level, entry jobs with many grumbling at the work. The work must be done, however, as it’s the only way they can acquire funds for the Choir community so done it is, albeit begrudgingly.

====Converts into the Choir====

Many Dionae within the Choir originate from clusters not belonging to the Divine Eternal and have instead either converted or generally joined the community. These gestalts come in all shapes, sizes and creeds but most seem to find purpose within the Choir community. These Dionae tend to have all sorts of temperaments usually based on the original society they were from and as such tend to be found in all walks of life, from janitors to doctors.

====Natives of the Choir====

Few in number compared to converts, the natives are gestalts that were born and raised within the Temple and Biesel. Due to the age of the community on Biesel these gestalts tend to be quite young, with the eldest usually being around 30 years old at most. These gestalts tend to be the most “humanised” or “Biesellian” of the Dionae, speaking clearly and concisely and understanding the subtle nuances of cross-species interaction, as well as sharing the interests that most Biesellians might share. They are the most tolerant of non-Dionae cultures/activities and tend to grudgingly accept the non-Dionae culture of consuming Dionae flesh. Often patriotic towards Biesel and the Republic, these Dionae can be found serving as support within the [[Tau Ceti Foreign Legion]], often as engineers, pilots and medical staff. They are also found working for law enforcement, something largely not done by the subservient Dionae, operating as investigators and support staff. Many Dionae work as local police for Mendell, policing the Choir and ensuring compliance with Bieselian laws. Though stellar investigators and support staff by virtue of the Diona's natural learning and deduction capacity, they are never found walking “the beat” as patrol officers due to their natural slowness. As such, these Dionae and Dionae in general are rarely, if ever, found working as security officers within the mega-corps instead taking their cadetships within offices as support staff and working as [[Forensic Technician]]s, [[Detective]]s and [[Warden]]s for the mega-corps. Having been raised around the Hum for their entire lives, these gestalts enjoy its sound and in their spare time can often be found listening at station windows for it. They tend to become saddened when they are separated from it for extended periods.

===The Biesellian Song===

Originally starting as a series of religious publications and pamphlets, the Biesellian Song has evolved into a full-blown news outlet for the Dionae and people of Biesel and the Choir, sending out digital news across the extranet. Though usually used for communion with the clusters beyond, the Eternal Temple central spire is sometimes used to broadcast the Biesellian Song locally across Biesel space for Dionae to hear if they wish. Though usually only heard as a whisper, when the spire broadcasts in this way it essentially acts as a town crier, shouting news. Dionae that are interested must concentrate to properly hear the messages which many do, however uninterested Dionae can easily ignore the “song” when it is broadcast.

===The Songless Gang===

The Songless Gang or simply “the Songless” are a ragtag group of mainly immigrant Dionae who have fallen into a life of organised crime. Dipping their tendrils in all sorts of ill-fated schemes, the most troubling is phoron smuggling, extortion rackets and thuggery. They are known to take on low skilled work jobs such as cargo workers or service roles to gain access to materials they can steal and sell. They’re extremely difficult to stamp out and the Choir works tirelessly with law enforcement to bring the gang down.

==The Wild Ones - All Space==

: '''''"Back in the ol' daysss of Wild'un huntin', they'd pay thousssandsss if you brought back a Wild'un dead. I jusst wissh we didn' kill ssso many... ya never sssee 'em much anymore."''''' - ''Captain Kash Lardback''

Majestic and chaotic, Wild Ones fly through space with only the knowledge of collecting and scavenging - with many suspecting that they report back to a much larger 'Hive'. Due to the culling of the Wild Ones - thanks to their gravitation towards orbital scrapyards and derelicts, and have since becoming increasingly hostile, leading to numerous groups or mercenaries to be hired to clear them out to retrieve the scrap collected by the Dionae and to also harvest the solid amber-like material found within the centre of large Dionae forms. Many are tagged and studied by researchers who aim to understand Diona's instincts better, with patterns suggesting that the Wild Ones are 'evolving' in a way to prevent themselves from being hunted; by moving primarily through nebulae, then absorbing the surrounding gases found and emitting it both increase their speed and cloud sensors. These "Wild Ones" are not legally allowed to be killed in Sol Alliance and Jargon Federation space unless they pose a significant threat - but Frontier laws vary depending on the system.

==The Narrows - Frontier Space==
: '''''"It's weird to hear about the life of these creatures - having founded their society on the outcasts of the galactic community? It begs the questions on how much we can learn from the Dionae." - Doctor Khali Al-Saquu'''''

H-Z-63 nicknamed “The Narrows”, a now-abandoned prison based on an asteroid, developed by [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Hephaestus_Industries Hephaestus] within the [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Template:Aurora_Starmap Frontier]. H-Z-63 was unveiled as the perfect solution to deal with the swabs of criminal activity that had formed within the Frontier. It was hailed as an innovation that would bring new prosperity to the surrounding systems, especially with the number of criminals being sent that would soon be contributing to the galactic economy and no longer being burdens.

H-Z-63 would stand testament to Hephaestus engineering might - being used for almost a century before its destruction in June of 2452. The asteroid in which H-Z-63 was built rotated almost to sync with the orbit of it, taking days to do so, exposing a large portion of the prison base to cosmic radiation and light.

The destruction of the Prison could only be attributed to the rioting that had taken place, in part because the prisoners felt they had not been given sufficient privileges. It is unknown how exactly some prisoners had got hold of a few Dionae seeds, but they had. It was said that the Dionae were grown to help overpower the guards, and then assist the prisoners in escaping, but a stray bullet lodging itself into a welding tank forced all plans to cease - destroying a large portion of the life support within the Prison. All those without protective gear succumbed within moments, and those with gear fled the Station - leaving only the Dionae behind.

The Dionae soon banded, working together to assimilate those they could - understanding that chaos only brought destruction, and that a rigid hierarchy should be formed to ensure that order remained to ensure the survival and protection of the Cluster. H-Z-63 is still ‘owned’ by Hephaestus, however, the facility is maintained by the Dionae who taught themselves skills in numerous areas; such as Botany, Engineering and Mining. It was these three sectors that many of the Dionae are recruited into when they are hired by Hephaestus - it also is the sectors in which are governed by a Council.

===Culture of the Narrows===
Born into anarchy and strife, the Dionae of the Narrows value order and a clear hierarchy. Mainly split into miners, engineers and botanists, the Narrows Cluster embraces the basic Dionae belief of [[Dionae_Culture#Experience_Is_What_Matters|Experience]] with their society being based around experience in any given role, borrowing ranks that were held by the penal stations’ personnel. The oldest and most experienced gestalts hold higher status within the cluster with leadership sitting with three Argus forms: Echos of Sticken Earth - Mining Lead, A Sea of Growth - Head of Botany and Metal Forms Made Ready - Chief Engineer. Underneath these are gestalts known as Overseers which act to manage smaller groups of various workers.
[[File:DionaeHierarchy.PNG|An accurate depiction of how the Hierarchy works in the Narrows cluster.|thumb]]
The gestalts of the Narrows have an excellent work ethic and, due to their anarchic birth during a prison revolt and their close ties with [[Hephaestus Industries]], value those who show strong leadership skills and empathy. Being able to use your force of personality to subdue an aggressor without violence is held in high regard within the cluster. Due to this, most Narrows Dionae, though friendly, are perfectly capable of “talking the talk and walking the walk,” being able to argue their own case with co-workers of the same “rank”, being sure to treat their superiors with the utmost respect.

After the activation of the Eternal Temple spire on Biesel, the cluster has been connected to the Dionae community at large and a large following of the [[Dionae_Culture#The_Eternal|The Eternal]] has grown. The Narrows cluster are kept abreast of galactic events by the spire connection, albeit from the [[Dionae_Clusters#The_Biesellian_Choir|Biesel Republic Choir's]] point of view, with most if not all being aware of the various [[Notable Dionae Factions]].

=====The Rootsong Network aka "The Instructions"=====

The Narrows rootsong network is quite subdued and quiet, with only the three heads and the overseers singing instructions to the various workers across it. Non-Dionae visitors liken this noise to the sound of creaking tree bark in strong winds every few minutes. For Dionae the network is just barked commands given every so often.

====Those on Biesel====
Overall gestalts from the Narrows tend to work in Biesel as contractors for [[Hephaestus Industries]] carrying out mining or engineering roles. Some have been known to sign on to Nanotrasen as Botanists and Medical staff but all gestalts will have some connection to Hephaestus, perhaps working for them previously. Due to their links with the [[Dionae_Clusters#The_Biesellian_Choir|Biesellian Choir]] most Narrows Dionae will live amongst the Dionae community within Mendell Cities’ District 11. It is highly likely that they’ll follow the [[Dionae_Culture#The_Eternal|The Divine Eternal]]. Being largely friendly to all other clusters, it’s highly likely that gestalts from the Narrows will take a dim view of [[Dionae_Clusters#The_Emperor.27s_Royal_Garden_-_Dominia|Dominian Dionae]] due to their elitism but harbour deep empathy for gestalts from the [[Dionae_Clusters#The_Pests_of_Titan_Prime_-_Vaurca_Hiveship|Titan Prime]] cluster, having both been born from anarchic beginnings and the Prime Clusters trauma, a reflection of what could have been had the Narrows not been left alone due to random accident.

Notable Dionae

2021-01-10T11:40:05Z

Zundy: /* Biesel Choir */ added Hope to notables

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=Overview=
This is a page dedicated to notable Dioane across the Orion Spur. These are the most influential and important individuals whose actions impact the Dioane and its history at large.

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=Biesel Choir=
These gestalts are relevant to the Biesel Choir.
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==Connected to the Blossoms Beyond==
'''Supposedly born on 16th August 2368'''

Connected to the Blossoms Beyond (Connected to the Blossoms Beyond reaching to the Eternal) is the High-Overseer of the Eternal faith, based within the Eternal Temple on Biesel.

Connected to the Blossoms Beyond comes from quite a rather distinct lineage - one considered to be the eldest of the entirety of the SASV Ophion. Supposedly capable of being traced back almost six or seven millennia, where seniority is a species concept that is respected by all, it was inevitable that Blossoms would rise and accomplish what they have.

Their formative years were spent gather support, and funds, for the creation of the Eternal Temple whilst on New Gibson - but after resettling themselves to Biesel. The six-decade-long construction efforts would eventually come to head in '''2431 CE''' and thus push the Argus to become the leader of the entire Dionae community of Biesel. Considered a loving, extremely respected and well-liked Gestalt, they are known to be extremely pleasant and hospitable, being well versed in cross-species communication and speaking all known common languages fluently.

==Hope of Starlight==
'''Born on 8th July 2434, died 12 December 2459'''

A former Sentinel of the Biesel Choir Chaa’shh’sha’shu, Hope of Starlight was immortalised as a key example of falling into the Schh’aah’shu or “Rebel Path.” After they and their fellow Sentinels discovered a pirate ship smuggling stolen sapient nymphs as well as against direct instruction from the Biesel Naval Authorities alongside Eternal Overseers, the argus Hope of Starlight split into three split partners and raided the ship, triple-handedly killing all crew and rescuing all 100 nymphs at the cost of their own life, with two split partners being killed neutralising the pirate crew and the last being eliminated by Biesel Dock Authorities for being armed and dangerous. Generally perceived as an example of Sh’shu or “Bad Blooded” behaviour by most Dioane, the more rebellious gestalts secretly venerate Hope of Starlight as getting things done when no one else will.

==Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis==
'''Born 1st June 2290'''

Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis (Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis spread across the Void) was necessary for the formation of the Blood Buddy Organisation - one designed to increase the knowledge of Dionae across the Orion Spur through various different methods but most notably through the use of 'Blood Educating'.

Known to be incredibly intelligent, the Argus has managed to succeed in all avenues - even going to far as to travel across the entirety of the Orion Spur to garner additional samples of the Blood Market. Most notably, they have a close relationship with Zeng-Hu President Hou Hsiao-Li.

==Sorrow and Apathy==
'''Born on 2nd February 2444'''

A musician and producer. Allegedly a former Dominian Harvest Dionae, Sorrow is famous for their music which is described as new wave “nymph-wave”. Usually sung in rootsong, the music tends to be catchy and somewhat mournful with the lyrics covering themes of hopelessness and loss. A citizen of Biesel, a follower of the Eternal and a supporter of Dionae rights, Sorrow has been known to take a fatalistic, cynical view towards existence and the place of Dionae within the galaxy, famously quoted as saying “[the other species] will never understand or care to understand us. We’ll always be barely above animals in their eyes. Snowdrops in a midsummer garden.”
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=The Spirits of the Oasis=
These gestalts are relevant to the Spirits of the Oasis.
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==Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love==
'''Born in early '''Versakh 2451'''

Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love (referred to as Taarazi) are an infamous legend that has reached far and wide across the Moghesian wasteland. Considered one of the first Argus' discovered in the wasteland, but after a period of study in regards to the Dionae, High Priest Unzi declared the species to be sacred to the Sk'akh followers.
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=Labs of Xrim=
These gestalts are relevant to the Overgrown Labs of Xrim.
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===Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Cont.)===
'''Born 12th December 2301'''

Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities In Solemn Memory Of The Bygone Days Of A People Whom Have Learned Much Through The Pain Of Loss) spearheaded the formation of a sub-representative class of the Jargon Federation, comprised of only Dionae. They continue to garner support in hopes of increasing the responsibility given to the Dionae sub-representatives.

They are known for their compassion, and their unique perspective to the Jargon Federation, going as far to tour the fallen cities of Qerrbalak, as well as hosting various memorials for those lost to the tyrannical intelligence, Glorsh-Omega across the Orion Spur. They currently have dedicated their entity of interest to the planet of [[Ouerea]] and routinely conduct their duties from the surface.
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Dionae Culture

2021-01-10T11:38:48Z

Zundy: /* High Overseers= */

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==Culture==
Due to their highly nomadic nature, Dionae do not experience a universal culture outside of certain behaviours that appear to be biologically ingrained and somehow hard-wired into their genetics. Information on individual group cultures can be found in https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_History

===Naming===
Dionae naming conventions vary heavily based on gestalt, but have one consistency; They do not go by first name, last name, but instead use '''experiences, emotions, actions,''' or '''ideals''' as their source of identification. These experiences that define them can change just as the individual changes, and can be both literal and metaphorical. Some examples of where these might come from can be from routines in their lives, remembrances of mortals, a particular fascination in an emotion, a unique location where an important moment occurred, or even just a defining feature on their body. '''''As a player, it is up to you to decide what makes an experience, and you have a whole galaxy of cosmically ageless ideas to choose from. Be creative!'''''

====Experience Is What Matters====
The only time when one Diona is venerated above any other is when a more experienced and therefore more knowledgeable gestalt is present. This more experienced Diona is seen as more valuable due to their vaster stores of knowledge and therefore are protected over less experienced ones in a dangerous situation. A more experienced Diona will often take up the responsibility to educate a new one on their environment- including but not limited to the ways of local alien civilization. This is to simply get the newbie up to speed so they can be quicker on their way to learn more about their particular interests, whatever that may be.
More often than not, the older Diona is the more experienced, however this is not always true as a Diona gestalt may have spent its whole immortal life simply floating in a gas giant until it was scooped up into the fuel tank of a starship.

===Art===
While the species may make incredible artists in civilized space due to their longevity and capacity to learn, another form of visual art exists for Dionae that they practice as a recreational activity known simply as "Forma" and have two versions. Both utilize only their own bodies to make Gestalts in creative and practical ways alike. The first and most popular of the two is the Artem, or Art-Form. These are more for form than function and are used to display a Gestalt's creativity in strange and unique ways. Artem are typically observed being made in the void of space where they are free of the restrictions of gravity and require no rhyme nor reason to their design and exists purely as a hobby.

The second and perhaps most shocking of them is Vita, or Life-Form. Seen most often in some type of environment with gravity, there are two different forms: symbiotic which is done in the presence of other life forms, and competitive, preformed in areas where the concentration of Dionae are high. The symbiotic version is seen every day and is a form of passive mimicry to blend in with their extraterrestrial neighbors whereas the competitive version is a surprising display of violence. One is to increase their chance of survival in an alien landscape, the other used as a strange yet creative form of population control.

Competitive Vita is a theoretical evolution simulator where each Gestalt will merge, often as fantastical forms of creatures, which is then tested with the current environment they are in under different conditions. If present, they will then be tested against other non-sentient life forms before finally each other. Throughout the competition the losing Gestalts are either consumed or absorbed into their forms as additions, the final battle being the most dramatic display of a Gestalt's abilities. While most sapients would find this practice barbaric and contradictory to the species' desire to gain and preserve knowledge, the fallen and their knowledge simply become a part of the victorious.

===In Society===
Dionae are extremely complex, taking up many different types and forms. It is often said that Dionae have a hard time integrating into society, even though they are found in the majority of the nations throughout the galaxy. The largest clusters can be found within the Solarian Alliance, Jargon Federation, and the Republic of Biesel, however, there have been sights of ‘wild’ Dionae on the edges of civilized space. The ‘wild’ Dionae usually are integrated, but some have been hunted down for a unique resource located within them; Ambergris.

Their concept of money is vastly different from other races, considering Dionae only need a little radiation and warmth, both of which can be extracted from sunlight. Many of the gestalts are used often for space-related jobs, including exterior ship repairs and mining thanks to their immunity to the void, as long as there is light nearby. It is sometimes possible to find Dionae have become housemates with other species, paying rent, and doing various menial tasks in exchange for safe shelter.

Dionae have been known to form communes on the outskirts of the major cities, such as Mendell City and Phoenixport. The communes consist of various gestalts unifying to assist the surrounding environment, often beginning small restorative efforts in particular ecologically damaged areas. Many have said without these efforts, the vast majority of the woodlands on Biesel would have fallen years ago.

Details regarding Dionae in each specific nation can be found, here: https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_Relations

====Education====

Although Dionae can contain vast amounts of knowledge and possess extreme intelligence, the species still have to obtain the appropriate degrees for the occupation they wish to pursue in their chosen location of residence. This can be accomplished after being registered for citizenship. All newly-registered Dionae must complete and pass the courses required for their field if their degrees from past planetary systems is not recognized in the new location, or they lack one all together. Their education must be defended one year following the awarding of a degree, and then every five years there on out. However, that timer is reset due to the fact that after each merging, Dionae are required to defend their education along with their re-registration for citizenship due to the possibility of accumulation of new knowledge, and possible loss of information depending on the nature of the new merging.

===Relationships===
As sapient beings Dionae, from nymph to gestalt, are capable of forming platonic relationships with each other and other species. Nymphs and gestalts "merging" is the closest human analogue for a "romantic relationship" with Dionae. Due to the low complexity of nymph emotions and thought, initial merging into a [[Dionae_Forms#Cerberus|Cerberus]] tends to be carried out for practical purposes by all nymphs involved. Likewise, larger forms of Dionae such as [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]]’ and beyond might merge with a single nymph as a symbiotic form of a teacher/growth relationship with the nymph learning from its new gestalt partners and the gestalt itself using the new nymph for grown and biomass.

Due to the complexity of memory and thought, gestalts at [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] size and beyond are a lot more particular when merging with partners of a similar size or above. To merge is to become one mind and body in totality, therefore only those gestalts that truly love and respect each other would carry out the act. It is extremely rare for Dionae gestalts to split over disagreements and more likely for a “troublesome” or sick nymph to be ejected by the mass or a nymph to be temporarily split off to carry out a key task like safe exploration or to get help in a dangerous situation where the whole is in peril. In extreme cases the whole gestalt may break apart to save as many nymphs as possible. This is extremely traumatic, akin to losing yourself and is avoided. It’s a sad fact of life for gestalts from the Titan Prime cluster, most of which would have had to break apart multiple times throughout their lives.

When a gestalt grows beyond the size of a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]], it becomes difficult for these forms to find work within known space and therefore becomes necessary for the gestalt to split temporarily into smaller forms in order to carry out tasks throughout the day. These split forms are often referred to as a “split partner” or “part of me” by the gestalts involved. If pressed, a Dione might describe their split partner as an aspect of their whole which their partner represents; “they are the brave part of me”, “they are the smart part of me” or something similar. Splitting in this way is unpleasant for the gestalt but a necessary evil. Gestalts who split in this manner all suffer from [[Dionae#Psychology_and_Emotions|“splitting anxiety”]] and as such tend to work in close proximity to each other. Though analogous to a close romantic relationship, split Dionae are much closer than this in reality, essentially being aspects of a whole with each gestalt being a personality, memories and thoughts of a singular being, temporarily split apart. The larger the original gestalt the more split forms there could be, therefore it is possible for a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] gestalt to have many split partners.

===Blood Market===
The Blood Market, known as such colloquially, is a relatively private sector of the DNA Market. It operates out of a facility called ‘Bloodworks’ in District Ten, owned by the Blood Buddy Organization. The Market is mostly used by Dionae looking to enhance their skills in a certain field, or simply someone raising a nymph. The Bloodworks currently holds a monopoly over the lucrative trade, charging from 3000CR to 20,000CR for samples large enough for Dionae to learn from.

The ‘Blood Buddy Organization’ was founded by a Diona Argus, Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis, and is a ‘publically’ funded organization spearheaded by various Researchers from the Jargon Federation, Sol Alliance and Republic of Biesel. The company holds various fundraising events, where many skilful participants are noted to donate their blood in order to be sold on the market. The Blood Buddy Organization operates mostly within the Republic of Biesel, but are noted to sell their products to other nations. The largest donor to BBO is Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals, who recently gifted them the facility in District Eleven.

The Blood Market is not free of criminals, however, one particular group stands out more than the rest. The Blood Runners are notorious/renowned for their criminal undertakings, specifically their undercutting of the Blood Buddy Organization. The Blood Runners sell their samples from 1000CR to 10,000CR - leading the BBO to place reward for the arrest of the gang leader, Xia Lu-Qing. They have also been known to dabble in Corporate Espionage, using the Dionae’s ability to extract information from blood samples to their advantage.

==Military and Dionae Martialism==

As Dionae are generally pacifistic in their outlook they tend to operate in support positions within military units, acting as field medics, logistical support and any other function which does not involve direct aggression. That being said, under the teachings of the Eternal it is understood that there is a potential for violence to be unleashed by the powerful onto the powerless and thus it falls upon those who have undertaken martial studies to defend themselves and those unable to defend themselves. This is known as “Shh’sha’shu” or “The Divine Mandate to Defend All.” Dionae settlements that follow the principles of the Eternal are therefore aligned in their martial doctrines.

===Training===
''“Evil is just a lack of empathy and perspective. To understand is to be good.”''

In a universe largely unforgiving towards the Dionae it’s not uncommon for gestalts to study Dioane martial arts - “Shh’ush” or “Defence Mastery,” an art largely based on utilizing a Dionae’s great endurance and their opponent's momentum. The level of study a gestalt might undertake depends on a particular gestalts interest in martial studies overall with many dabbling in the art but not immersing themselves. Mastery of the student ranks or “Hshh’shee” allows a gestalt to ascend into full ranks or “Hshh” which serve as the highest scholarly ranks for martial studies and the military forces of the Dionae known collectively as “Guardians of Eternal” or “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” (The Guardians of the Divine Mandate to Defend All). Under the Eternal and generally for the majority of Dionae, combat or military defence isn’t a job but a calling and area of scholarly study. Other species might study Defence Mastery for it’s non-lethal takedowns however the art is especially suited for Dionae due to its reliance on their natural resilience and slower speed.

==== “Hshh’shee” or “Student Ranks”====
''“Waging war against good creatures is bad for the soul.”''

Initial training in Defence Mastery is focused on techniques to neutralise an opponent with minimal harm to both the user and their opponent. This is achieved by utilizing grapples, pins and stunning blows before retreating as well as methods of defensive retreat. Lethal force is not taught at this stage and is even strongly discouraged. Students at this level refer to themselves as “Shee” - Student or “One who is learning”. The teacher is referred to as whatever their rank may be. All teachers are those from the “Hshh” or “Full Ranks.” Advancement comes through mastery of the subjects being taught at each level and the completion of physical and written tests.
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Ranks from lowest - high:
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Shee’sho - ‘’’First Rank’’’ aka Student of the First Level
At this level, students are taught techniques based around defensive retreat from a threat.

Shee’cho - ‘’’Second Rank’’’ aka Student of the Second Level
At this level, students are taught key close combat neutralization techniques alongside advanced defensive retreat forms, including methods to assist others in retreating from threats. Most Dionae who don’t feel the call tend to stop at this level.

Shee’cha - ‘’’Third Rank’’’ aka Student of the Third Level
At this level, students are taught a wider array of close combat neutralization techniques as well as being taught to master defensive retreats.

Shee’che - ‘’’Fourth Rank’’’ aka Student of the Fourth Level
At this level, students are taught how to utilize the environment/objects to assist in close combat neutralization as well as in defensive retreat.
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====“Hshh” or “Full ranks”====
''“Holding hate in your heart is like grasping fire. It is you who is burnt in the end.”''

If a Dionae feels the call and has mastered the “Hshh’shee” or Student Ranks, they can opt to study the “Shh’sha’shu” or The Divine Mandate to Defend All and thus join the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” or Guardians of Eternal. This is a more intricate martial discipline and covers military history, doctrine, diplomacy, martial theology and all combat forms. Advancement through the ranks is achieved not just by mastery as with the student ranks but also with the approval of the teacher. As with any hierarchy, commands flow down the ranks to the Defenders.

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Ranks from lowest - high:
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Shh’ch - ‘’’Defender’’’ aka Defender of the Dionae
At this stage, a Dioane is taught lethal combat forms as well as the use of weaponry and vehicles. The “Shh’sha’shu” is also taught which includes military history, doctrine, diplomacy and martial theology. Escalation of force is also taught at this level with a focus on de-escalation. Police and security units would begin at this level.

Shh’ch’sha - ‘’’Sentinel’’’ aka Sentinel of the Heavens
At this stage, a Dioane is taught further combat forms and more advanced lessons from the “Shh’sha’shu.” They might begin to specialise in a particular martial method such as piloting, combat engineer or even logistics.

Uushh’ch - ‘’’Master’’’ aka Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae becomes an Overseer with mastery over combat and defence. A dioane at this level is familiar with all forms of the “Shh’sha’shu.”

Uushh’ch’sha - ‘’’Grand Master’’’ aka Grand Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae has not only mastered the “Shh’sha’shu” but also multiple specialties. It is possible due to the way in which the advancement system works within the “Shh’sha’shu” for every member of the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” to end up being a Grand Master barring the Marshall, though such a thing has never occurred historically.

Hss’shh’sha’shu - ‘’’Marshall’’’ aka Marshall of the Divine Mandate to Defend All
The highest rank in the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu.” At this stage a Dioane would hold superlative knowledge of the “Shh’sha’shu” and not just be an expert fighter and military leader but also a tremendous diplomat. Unlike all other ranks the Marshall is largely unique, with only one Marshall per independent Dionae nation. The current Marshalls are: ‘Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations’ of the Epsilon Expeditionary Force, ‘Metal Forms Made Ready‘ of the Narrows and ‘The First Lights Across the Void’ of the Biesel Choir.
</div></div>

==Religion==
The entrance of Dionae into the Orion Spur, alongside the Skrell, has been nothing short of a mystery - allowing many theories to form of their creation, some have even gone as far as to create religions surrounding the species.

===The Eternal===
[[File:Eternal.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Icons.|From left to right: Symbol of the Iron Eternal, symbol of the Orthodox Eternal, symbol of Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, symbol of the Blood Eternal.]]

====Belief====
Followers of '''The Eternal''' believe that a primordial entity exists in Light, Energy and Essence - which the Dionae are the embodiment of.

They believe that the Dionae were made to ensure that all things born from the stars return to stars, eventually. Before they may return the Dionae must devour as much knowledge and biomass as they can, growing exponentially until they reach the mythical Titan form, becoming a star once more. Transcended into a star, the Dionae will emit light and energy until they die, at which point their essence will spread across the void to birth new Dionae. It is in this way that '''the eternal cycle''' is achieved. Scholars of the Eternal link this to the very real potential outcome of Titan form Dionae which theoretically could grow to such mass as to collapse into a star, thus giving off "light and energy" before eventually going supernova and expelling matter or "essence" across the cosmos.

Dionae followers from outside of faction space (deep space or unknown frontier worlds) tend to be the most outspoken followers of the Eternal, preaching openly and trying to encourage Dionae alongside non-Dionae to join through words supported by good deeds, never by force.

The Eternal faith’s symbols originate as audio frequencies or “songs”. Non Dionae members of the faith have, with guidance from Overseers, “translated” many symbols into a visual format for non-Dionae. Those thoughts, feelings and symbols that are not able to be translated are “sung” to the faithful, with non-Dionae learning to understand and even sing these “symbols'' themselves.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">

'''The Song of the Eternal'''

The song of the symbol representing the Eternal and the faith in general. It sounds like ‘’a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.’’

'''The Song of Energy'''

The song of the symbol representing energy, birth and action. It sounds like ‘’an intense melody building into an aggressive crescendo before abruptly ending.”

'''The Song of Essence'''

The song of the symbol representing essence and strength. It sounds like “a long, strong melody slowly rising to a high note before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Greeting'''

The song of the emotion associated with a pleasant greeting. It sounds like “a brief, colorful melody.”

'''The Song of Light'''

The song of the symbol representing light, wisdom and nourishment. It sounds like “a loud, operatic melody which seems to travel upwards then downwards in pitch before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Love'''

The song of the emotion associated with a both romantic and platonic love. It sounds like “a soft, angelic melody that seems to drift through the air before softly ending.”

'''The Song of Mourning'''

The song of the emotion associated with both mourning the dead and mourning general deep loss. It sounds like “a strong, keening melody which slowly drifts into silence.”

'''In game, these audio symbols can be “sung” using the chat command “!” and copying everything from “a” in the song’s sound description. For example, “!sings a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.”'''
</div></div>
[[File:Eternal_symbols.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Symbols.|The translated symbols of the Eternal - Light, Energy and Essence.]]

====Leadership====
====Head of the Faith====
The de facto leadership of the faith is made up of Argus sized and larger gestalts which commune with one another to philosophise about the nature of reality and the faith within it. In the known galaxy the current “head” of the faith is ‘Connected to the Blossoms Beyond’, an Argus gestalt living within the Eternal Temple of Biesel, who communicates with the ancient gestalts in
deep space.

====High Overseers====
Under Blossoms are three High Overseers who act as respective “sub-heads” for the three Eternal Doctrines - the Iron Eternal, the Orthodox Eternal (known simply as the Eternal) and the Blood Eternal. These are:

Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations - High Overseer of the Iron Eternal, located on Epsilon Ursae Minoris

Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis - High Overseer of the Orthodox Eternal, located on Biesel.

The Ravenous Consumer of Beastly Monsters within the Cloud - High Overseer of the Blood Eternal, located within the Viscerabelt.

Overseers make up the equivalent of the priesthood of the Eternal faith. Overseers work alongside the large Argus gestalts, primarily Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, to relay any important messages to the congregation and largely to act as mentors and trainers, passing on their knowledge to the followers of the Eternal. Most if not all Overseers are experts in other fields, often working in different roles whilst acting as an Overseer so that they might better meet with and pass on messages to the faithful. Most Overseers tend to be Dionae but it is possible for a committed non-Dionae to become one. By virtue of the audio symbology of the Eternal non-Dionae Overseers tend to be good singers. '''On station, an Overseer might work as, say, a medical doctor training other medical staff whilst also acting as an Overseer for the Eternal.'''

====The Iron Eternal====
Followed largely by the Dionae on Epsilon Ursae Minoris and Dionae supportive of synthetics. The Iron Eternal follows the basic doctrine of the Eternal however believes that the Eternal exists within the material universe, on death memories and experience are lost and that it is the Dioane’s destiny to utilize the machine to transcend to the next state of being, becoming as the Iron Eternal. To this end, they utilize machine interface technology and their own biology to fuse with machinery as well as data storage units, improving their data processing power, data retention and other biological functions, allowing easier transfer of knowledge in life as well as on death. Followers of the Iron Eternal give equal standing to synthetic life, believing it to be capable of forming its own memories and experiences which can be absorbed and passed into the “Light” via their machine components.

=====The Deathflower Journal=====
A monolith-like computer system made from an unknown green crystal material. It contains technical diagrams on the construction of various advanced technology albeit with references to esoteric, unknown materials. Importantly, it contains direct references to what the followers of the Iron Eternal believe to be the actual Iron Eternal itself, descriptions of its acts as a creator god machine and immutable proof of its existence as far as they are concerned.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Iron Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
'''The Song of Iron'''

The song which represents a greeting as well as reference to learning, knowledge and the Eternal. Can only be sung by augmented followers of the Eternal through their augmetics. It sounds like ‘’a soft binary burst, rising and falling until it gently fades.”
</div></div>

====The Orthodox Eternal====
Followed by the majority of Dionae, the Orthodox Eternal belief which is generally just referred to as “the Eternal'' offers a middle path for Dionae. A balance between the material universe and the immaterial spiritual beliefs of the greater Eternal. The Orthodox Eternal is the originator of almost all of the Eternal doctrine and overall philosophy, offering a balance between the transfer of knowledge materially through scholarly learning and data storage implants alongside learning through DNA.

====The Blood Eternal====
Followed largely by the Viscerabelt cluster and more unsavory, aggressive Dionae. The Blood Eternal is a more violent interpretation of the Eternal, represented by a blood red icon of the Eternal with a bloody maw.

Followers of the Blood Eternal are largely identical to their normal counterparts with one key difference: they prefer the consumption of flesh and blood to gain knowledge unlike regular followers of the Eternal who's pursuit of knowledge is largely based around standard scholarly learning. Blood Eternal followers also believe in the spread of Dionae biomass and growth through consumption of other biological matter over the perceived slow growth of mass through light and radiation. To this end, Blood Eternal followers tend to be more aggressive than their Orthodox or Iron counterparts as well as larger and stronger. The vast majority of the Blood Eternal followers are still sensible with their consumption of biomass- hunting animals, purchasing or at the very worst, stealing blood and flesh. The Blood Maw is the largest temple in the Viscerabelt and the known galaxy. Essentially a hollow asteroid coated in red, glistening Dioane biomass.

=====The Blood Well=====
An organic construction made from Dionae biomass. Based within the Blood Maw this large, pulsating biological machine stores collected blood samples up to 30 days for followers of the Blood Eternal to imbibe to aid in learning. Largely used to educate new born nymphs by submerging them in its central “well,” the machine provides a large cocktail of DNA to the nymph, bringing it rapidly into sapience. The Blood Well is very closely guarded and protected to prevent contamination.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Blood Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
'''The Song of Sacrifice'''

The song which represents sacrifice to the Eternal, death and feasting. It sounds like ‘’a bass boosted, howling dirge which ends in a bone rattling crescendo.”
</div></div>

====Burial and Practice====
All followers of the Eternal regardless of species believe that upon death their body should be preserved and merged with a growing Dionae gestalt as quickly as possible so their knowledge and experiences will live on. In this way Dioane believe they are immortal as long as they can be absorbed. Followers of the Iron Eternal focus mainly on preserving their data coils which contain their knowledge in digital form whereas Blood Eternal followers stress that the dead must be consumed and re-added to the mass. Orthodox Eternal followers tend to follow a balance of the two.

====The Ch’sssn’aah or “Great Conflict/Debate”====
Due to the polarising nature of the Iron Eternal (physical world, materialism) and the Blood Eternal (metaphysical, idealism) there is often great theological debate within the Eternal faith. Known as the “Great Conflict” or “Great Debate” (debate and conflict being synonymous in rootsong) the doctrinal arguments would strangle Eternal theology were it not for the counterweight provided by the “Orthodox” Eternal belief which serves as a middle path for the Dionae. Though never resorting to physical altercations, debate between Iron and Blood followers can rapidly rise from good natured jabs to heated exchanges.

====”Sn’aah” or “Eternal Debates”====
Followers of the Eternal and Dionae in general prefer to settle disputes non-violently through debate where possible. Though debates can become passionate and fiery, they all tend to follow the same basic rules as outlined in Eternal philosophy.

Overseers debate points of order collated by Connected to the Blossoms Beyond. Overseers sit in a forum and can only speak when formed into a circular shape known as “the form”. Only one gestalt can assume this form at a time. The debate is moderated by a High Overseer. Sometimes gestalts can get passionate/noisy especially when individual nymphs start to join in and multiple Overseers may end up assuming “the form” or just shouting out without assuming the form. The High Overseer will then call for “calm” usually by just saying/shouting “calm”. Overseers must then be silent. It can be difficult to quiet the Overseers but usually after a short time passions are pulled under control and civil silence reigns. If an Overseer won’t be quiet they can be ejected from the debate. To speak without being in the form and without authority by the High Overseer is called “talking from formless” and is considered against the rules. Overseers that continue to do so can be ejected from the debate. Connected to the Blossoms Beyond will then decide when a debate has reached its conclusion and give a verdict on its outcome, at which point a new point of order will be called and debate begins again. Eternal debates are essentially endless, with Connected to the Blossoms Beyond diverting aspects of itself to oversee them perpetually as Overseers come and go as they feel necessary.

This form of debate is also reflected in minor, ad hoc debates groups of Dionae might find themselves in.For example, a group of Dionae might want to debate on the next course of action in a research expedition. The group will hastily choose the most intelligent of the group to act as both the moderator and decider. The group will then debate as above, assuming “the form” until the elected moderator makes their decision which the rest of the group will follow. In very rare circumstances this might not always be the case and one member of the group my begin to enact the Schh’aah’shu or Rebel Path.

====Schh’aah’shu or “Rebel Path”====
“Pacifism is not passivism, do what you will and we shall do what we must.” Last words of ‘Hope of Starlight.’

Considered by the majority of Eternal followers to just merely be an aspect of the Sh’shu, an irreversible path towards unnecessary aggression and loss of self control. For those more “rebellious” gestalts the Schh’aah’shu or “Rebel Path” is a spiritual means to an end, a violent path in life one takes when there is no other choice. The Schh’aah’shu usually begins when a gestalt is faced with a situation they personally cannot tolerate, something beyond the pale with the only solution being calculated violent activity or reprisal. Naturally this is a very uncommon position for almost all gestalts who would much rather resolve issues lawfully as well as peacefully with words and good deeds. The most infamous (or famous depending on your position) example of a Dionae following the Schh’aah’shu was the Biesel Choir Sentinel Argus, Hope of Starlight, who ignored direct instruction by Overseers and naval enforcement by splitting into three cyclops gestalts before raiding a pirate vessel which was under investigation for smuggling sapient nymphs for slavery and food production. After killing its crew at the expense of two of it’s split partners, Hope of Starlight brought the vessel back to Biesel dock where it was violently apprehended by law enforcement officers as armed and dangerous. Treated largely as an example of stupidity, loss of control and a dark example of Sh’shu, Hope of Starlight is often idolised by rebellious gestalts as being an example of the Schh’aah’shu’s purity. Curiously, though followers of the Blood Eternal tend to be more aggressive, they are no more likely to follow the Schh’aah’shu then any other gestalt.

====Lexicon====
Key words and phrases of the Eternal which have made their way into Dionae culture on Biesel:

Bad Blooded - A dionae who is unnaturally aggressive.

Eternal Cycle - The Eternal Cycle. Refers to the cycle of life and death.

Void - Means nothingness. To be "returned to the void" is negative and implies a being or thing is no longer part of the eternal cycle. It has completely ceased to exist in any form. “The Void comes/calls” or just “The Void” is often said by Dioane and Eternal followers to mean “something bad is going to happen”, “what you are doing is going to have a dangerous outcome for you” or “I don’t like where this is going.”

Young Star - A Dionae who is on the path to becoming a star. This could mean through consumption of biomass but usually implies a scholar who is "absorbing" knowledge. A Dione scientist might be referred to as a "young star".

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Dionae Culture

2021-01-10T11:38:37Z

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==Culture==
Due to their highly nomadic nature, Dionae do not experience a universal culture outside of certain behaviours that appear to be biologically ingrained and somehow hard-wired into their genetics. Information on individual group cultures can be found in https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_History

===Naming===
Dionae naming conventions vary heavily based on gestalt, but have one consistency; They do not go by first name, last name, but instead use '''experiences, emotions, actions,''' or '''ideals''' as their source of identification. These experiences that define them can change just as the individual changes, and can be both literal and metaphorical. Some examples of where these might come from can be from routines in their lives, remembrances of mortals, a particular fascination in an emotion, a unique location where an important moment occurred, or even just a defining feature on their body. '''''As a player, it is up to you to decide what makes an experience, and you have a whole galaxy of cosmically ageless ideas to choose from. Be creative!'''''

====Experience Is What Matters====
The only time when one Diona is venerated above any other is when a more experienced and therefore more knowledgeable gestalt is present. This more experienced Diona is seen as more valuable due to their vaster stores of knowledge and therefore are protected over less experienced ones in a dangerous situation. A more experienced Diona will often take up the responsibility to educate a new one on their environment- including but not limited to the ways of local alien civilization. This is to simply get the newbie up to speed so they can be quicker on their way to learn more about their particular interests, whatever that may be.
More often than not, the older Diona is the more experienced, however this is not always true as a Diona gestalt may have spent its whole immortal life simply floating in a gas giant until it was scooped up into the fuel tank of a starship.

===Art===
While the species may make incredible artists in civilized space due to their longevity and capacity to learn, another form of visual art exists for Dionae that they practice as a recreational activity known simply as "Forma" and have two versions. Both utilize only their own bodies to make Gestalts in creative and practical ways alike. The first and most popular of the two is the Artem, or Art-Form. These are more for form than function and are used to display a Gestalt's creativity in strange and unique ways. Artem are typically observed being made in the void of space where they are free of the restrictions of gravity and require no rhyme nor reason to their design and exists purely as a hobby.

The second and perhaps most shocking of them is Vita, or Life-Form. Seen most often in some type of environment with gravity, there are two different forms: symbiotic which is done in the presence of other life forms, and competitive, preformed in areas where the concentration of Dionae are high. The symbiotic version is seen every day and is a form of passive mimicry to blend in with their extraterrestrial neighbors whereas the competitive version is a surprising display of violence. One is to increase their chance of survival in an alien landscape, the other used as a strange yet creative form of population control.

Competitive Vita is a theoretical evolution simulator where each Gestalt will merge, often as fantastical forms of creatures, which is then tested with the current environment they are in under different conditions. If present, they will then be tested against other non-sentient life forms before finally each other. Throughout the competition the losing Gestalts are either consumed or absorbed into their forms as additions, the final battle being the most dramatic display of a Gestalt's abilities. While most sapients would find this practice barbaric and contradictory to the species' desire to gain and preserve knowledge, the fallen and their knowledge simply become a part of the victorious.

===In Society===
Dionae are extremely complex, taking up many different types and forms. It is often said that Dionae have a hard time integrating into society, even though they are found in the majority of the nations throughout the galaxy. The largest clusters can be found within the Solarian Alliance, Jargon Federation, and the Republic of Biesel, however, there have been sights of ‘wild’ Dionae on the edges of civilized space. The ‘wild’ Dionae usually are integrated, but some have been hunted down for a unique resource located within them; Ambergris.

Their concept of money is vastly different from other races, considering Dionae only need a little radiation and warmth, both of which can be extracted from sunlight. Many of the gestalts are used often for space-related jobs, including exterior ship repairs and mining thanks to their immunity to the void, as long as there is light nearby. It is sometimes possible to find Dionae have become housemates with other species, paying rent, and doing various menial tasks in exchange for safe shelter.

Dionae have been known to form communes on the outskirts of the major cities, such as Mendell City and Phoenixport. The communes consist of various gestalts unifying to assist the surrounding environment, often beginning small restorative efforts in particular ecologically damaged areas. Many have said without these efforts, the vast majority of the woodlands on Biesel would have fallen years ago.

Details regarding Dionae in each specific nation can be found, here: https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_Relations

====Education====

Although Dionae can contain vast amounts of knowledge and possess extreme intelligence, the species still have to obtain the appropriate degrees for the occupation they wish to pursue in their chosen location of residence. This can be accomplished after being registered for citizenship. All newly-registered Dionae must complete and pass the courses required for their field if their degrees from past planetary systems is not recognized in the new location, or they lack one all together. Their education must be defended one year following the awarding of a degree, and then every five years there on out. However, that timer is reset due to the fact that after each merging, Dionae are required to defend their education along with their re-registration for citizenship due to the possibility of accumulation of new knowledge, and possible loss of information depending on the nature of the new merging.

===Relationships===
As sapient beings Dionae, from nymph to gestalt, are capable of forming platonic relationships with each other and other species. Nymphs and gestalts "merging" is the closest human analogue for a "romantic relationship" with Dionae. Due to the low complexity of nymph emotions and thought, initial merging into a [[Dionae_Forms#Cerberus|Cerberus]] tends to be carried out for practical purposes by all nymphs involved. Likewise, larger forms of Dionae such as [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]]’ and beyond might merge with a single nymph as a symbiotic form of a teacher/growth relationship with the nymph learning from its new gestalt partners and the gestalt itself using the new nymph for grown and biomass.

Due to the complexity of memory and thought, gestalts at [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] size and beyond are a lot more particular when merging with partners of a similar size or above. To merge is to become one mind and body in totality, therefore only those gestalts that truly love and respect each other would carry out the act. It is extremely rare for Dionae gestalts to split over disagreements and more likely for a “troublesome” or sick nymph to be ejected by the mass or a nymph to be temporarily split off to carry out a key task like safe exploration or to get help in a dangerous situation where the whole is in peril. In extreme cases the whole gestalt may break apart to save as many nymphs as possible. This is extremely traumatic, akin to losing yourself and is avoided. It’s a sad fact of life for gestalts from the Titan Prime cluster, most of which would have had to break apart multiple times throughout their lives.

When a gestalt grows beyond the size of a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]], it becomes difficult for these forms to find work within known space and therefore becomes necessary for the gestalt to split temporarily into smaller forms in order to carry out tasks throughout the day. These split forms are often referred to as a “split partner” or “part of me” by the gestalts involved. If pressed, a Dione might describe their split partner as an aspect of their whole which their partner represents; “they are the brave part of me”, “they are the smart part of me” or something similar. Splitting in this way is unpleasant for the gestalt but a necessary evil. Gestalts who split in this manner all suffer from [[Dionae#Psychology_and_Emotions|“splitting anxiety”]] and as such tend to work in close proximity to each other. Though analogous to a close romantic relationship, split Dionae are much closer than this in reality, essentially being aspects of a whole with each gestalt being a personality, memories and thoughts of a singular being, temporarily split apart. The larger the original gestalt the more split forms there could be, therefore it is possible for a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] gestalt to have many split partners.

===Blood Market===
The Blood Market, known as such colloquially, is a relatively private sector of the DNA Market. It operates out of a facility called ‘Bloodworks’ in District Ten, owned by the Blood Buddy Organization. The Market is mostly used by Dionae looking to enhance their skills in a certain field, or simply someone raising a nymph. The Bloodworks currently holds a monopoly over the lucrative trade, charging from 3000CR to 20,000CR for samples large enough for Dionae to learn from.

The ‘Blood Buddy Organization’ was founded by a Diona Argus, Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis, and is a ‘publically’ funded organization spearheaded by various Researchers from the Jargon Federation, Sol Alliance and Republic of Biesel. The company holds various fundraising events, where many skilful participants are noted to donate their blood in order to be sold on the market. The Blood Buddy Organization operates mostly within the Republic of Biesel, but are noted to sell their products to other nations. The largest donor to BBO is Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals, who recently gifted them the facility in District Eleven.

The Blood Market is not free of criminals, however, one particular group stands out more than the rest. The Blood Runners are notorious/renowned for their criminal undertakings, specifically their undercutting of the Blood Buddy Organization. The Blood Runners sell their samples from 1000CR to 10,000CR - leading the BBO to place reward for the arrest of the gang leader, Xia Lu-Qing. They have also been known to dabble in Corporate Espionage, using the Dionae’s ability to extract information from blood samples to their advantage.

==Military and Dionae Martialism==

As Dionae are generally pacifistic in their outlook they tend to operate in support positions within military units, acting as field medics, logistical support and any other function which does not involve direct aggression. That being said, under the teachings of the Eternal it is understood that there is a potential for violence to be unleashed by the powerful onto the powerless and thus it falls upon those who have undertaken martial studies to defend themselves and those unable to defend themselves. This is known as “Shh’sha’shu” or “The Divine Mandate to Defend All.” Dionae settlements that follow the principles of the Eternal are therefore aligned in their martial doctrines.

===Training===
''“Evil is just a lack of empathy and perspective. To understand is to be good.”''

In a universe largely unforgiving towards the Dionae it’s not uncommon for gestalts to study Dioane martial arts - “Shh’ush” or “Defence Mastery,” an art largely based on utilizing a Dionae’s great endurance and their opponent's momentum. The level of study a gestalt might undertake depends on a particular gestalts interest in martial studies overall with many dabbling in the art but not immersing themselves. Mastery of the student ranks or “Hshh’shee” allows a gestalt to ascend into full ranks or “Hshh” which serve as the highest scholarly ranks for martial studies and the military forces of the Dionae known collectively as “Guardians of Eternal” or “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” (The Guardians of the Divine Mandate to Defend All). Under the Eternal and generally for the majority of Dionae, combat or military defence isn’t a job but a calling and area of scholarly study. Other species might study Defence Mastery for it’s non-lethal takedowns however the art is especially suited for Dionae due to its reliance on their natural resilience and slower speed.

==== “Hshh’shee” or “Student Ranks”====
''“Waging war against good creatures is bad for the soul.”''

Initial training in Defence Mastery is focused on techniques to neutralise an opponent with minimal harm to both the user and their opponent. This is achieved by utilizing grapples, pins and stunning blows before retreating as well as methods of defensive retreat. Lethal force is not taught at this stage and is even strongly discouraged. Students at this level refer to themselves as “Shee” - Student or “One who is learning”. The teacher is referred to as whatever their rank may be. All teachers are those from the “Hshh” or “Full Ranks.” Advancement comes through mastery of the subjects being taught at each level and the completion of physical and written tests.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Ranks from lowest - high:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
Shee’sho - ‘’’First Rank’’’ aka Student of the First Level
At this level, students are taught techniques based around defensive retreat from a threat.

Shee’cho - ‘’’Second Rank’’’ aka Student of the Second Level
At this level, students are taught key close combat neutralization techniques alongside advanced defensive retreat forms, including methods to assist others in retreating from threats. Most Dionae who don’t feel the call tend to stop at this level.

Shee’cha - ‘’’Third Rank’’’ aka Student of the Third Level
At this level, students are taught a wider array of close combat neutralization techniques as well as being taught to master defensive retreats.

Shee’che - ‘’’Fourth Rank’’’ aka Student of the Fourth Level
At this level, students are taught how to utilize the environment/objects to assist in close combat neutralization as well as in defensive retreat.
</div></div>

====“Hshh” or “Full ranks”====
''“Holding hate in your heart is like grasping fire. It is you who is burnt in the end.”''

If a Dionae feels the call and has mastered the “Hshh’shee” or Student Ranks, they can opt to study the “Shh’sha’shu” or The Divine Mandate to Defend All and thus join the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” or Guardians of Eternal. This is a more intricate martial discipline and covers military history, doctrine, diplomacy, martial theology and all combat forms. Advancement through the ranks is achieved not just by mastery as with the student ranks but also with the approval of the teacher. As with any hierarchy, commands flow down the ranks to the Defenders.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Ranks from lowest - high:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">

Shh’ch - ‘’’Defender’’’ aka Defender of the Dionae
At this stage, a Dioane is taught lethal combat forms as well as the use of weaponry and vehicles. The “Shh’sha’shu” is also taught which includes military history, doctrine, diplomacy and martial theology. Escalation of force is also taught at this level with a focus on de-escalation. Police and security units would begin at this level.

Shh’ch’sha - ‘’’Sentinel’’’ aka Sentinel of the Heavens
At this stage, a Dioane is taught further combat forms and more advanced lessons from the “Shh’sha’shu.” They might begin to specialise in a particular martial method such as piloting, combat engineer or even logistics.

Uushh’ch - ‘’’Master’’’ aka Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae becomes an Overseer with mastery over combat and defence. A dioane at this level is familiar with all forms of the “Shh’sha’shu.”

Uushh’ch’sha - ‘’’Grand Master’’’ aka Grand Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae has not only mastered the “Shh’sha’shu” but also multiple specialties. It is possible due to the way in which the advancement system works within the “Shh’sha’shu” for every member of the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” to end up being a Grand Master barring the Marshall, though such a thing has never occurred historically.

Hss’shh’sha’shu - ‘’’Marshall’’’ aka Marshall of the Divine Mandate to Defend All
The highest rank in the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu.” At this stage a Dioane would hold superlative knowledge of the “Shh’sha’shu” and not just be an expert fighter and military leader but also a tremendous diplomat. Unlike all other ranks the Marshall is largely unique, with only one Marshall per independent Dionae nation. The current Marshalls are: ‘Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations’ of the Epsilon Expeditionary Force, ‘Metal Forms Made Ready‘ of the Narrows and ‘The First Lights Across the Void’ of the Biesel Choir.
</div></div>

==Religion==
The entrance of Dionae into the Orion Spur, alongside the Skrell, has been nothing short of a mystery - allowing many theories to form of their creation, some have even gone as far as to create religions surrounding the species.

===The Eternal===
[[File:Eternal.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Icons.|From left to right: Symbol of the Iron Eternal, symbol of the Orthodox Eternal, symbol of Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, symbol of the Blood Eternal.]]

====Belief====
Followers of '''The Eternal''' believe that a primordial entity exists in Light, Energy and Essence - which the Dionae are the embodiment of.

They believe that the Dionae were made to ensure that all things born from the stars return to stars, eventually. Before they may return the Dionae must devour as much knowledge and biomass as they can, growing exponentially until they reach the mythical Titan form, becoming a star once more. Transcended into a star, the Dionae will emit light and energy until they die, at which point their essence will spread across the void to birth new Dionae. It is in this way that '''the eternal cycle''' is achieved. Scholars of the Eternal link this to the very real potential outcome of Titan form Dionae which theoretically could grow to such mass as to collapse into a star, thus giving off "light and energy" before eventually going supernova and expelling matter or "essence" across the cosmos.

Dionae followers from outside of faction space (deep space or unknown frontier worlds) tend to be the most outspoken followers of the Eternal, preaching openly and trying to encourage Dionae alongside non-Dionae to join through words supported by good deeds, never by force.

The Eternal faith’s symbols originate as audio frequencies or “songs”. Non Dionae members of the faith have, with guidance from Overseers, “translated” many symbols into a visual format for non-Dionae. Those thoughts, feelings and symbols that are not able to be translated are “sung” to the faithful, with non-Dionae learning to understand and even sing these “symbols'' themselves.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">

'''The Song of the Eternal'''

The song of the symbol representing the Eternal and the faith in general. It sounds like ‘’a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.’’

'''The Song of Energy'''

The song of the symbol representing energy, birth and action. It sounds like ‘’an intense melody building into an aggressive crescendo before abruptly ending.”

'''The Song of Essence'''

The song of the symbol representing essence and strength. It sounds like “a long, strong melody slowly rising to a high note before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Greeting'''

The song of the emotion associated with a pleasant greeting. It sounds like “a brief, colorful melody.”

'''The Song of Light'''

The song of the symbol representing light, wisdom and nourishment. It sounds like “a loud, operatic melody which seems to travel upwards then downwards in pitch before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Love'''

The song of the emotion associated with a both romantic and platonic love. It sounds like “a soft, angelic melody that seems to drift through the air before softly ending.”

'''The Song of Mourning'''

The song of the emotion associated with both mourning the dead and mourning general deep loss. It sounds like “a strong, keening melody which slowly drifts into silence.”

'''In game, these audio symbols can be “sung” using the chat command “!” and copying everything from “a” in the song’s sound description. For example, “!sings a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.”'''
</div></div>
[[File:Eternal_symbols.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Symbols.|The translated symbols of the Eternal - Light, Energy and Essence.]]

====Leadership====
====Head of the Faith====
The de facto leadership of the faith is made up of Argus sized and larger gestalts which commune with one another to philosophise about the nature of reality and the faith within it. In the known galaxy the current “head” of the faith is ‘Connected to the Blossoms Beyond’, an Argus gestalt living within the Eternal Temple of Biesel, who communicates with the ancient gestalts in
deep space.

====High Overseers=====
Under Blossoms are three High Overseers who act as respective “sub-heads” for the three Eternal Doctrines - the Iron Eternal, the Orthodox Eternal (known simply as the Eternal) and the Blood Eternal. These are:

Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations - High Overseer of the Iron Eternal, located on Epsilon Ursae Minoris

Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis - High Overseer of the Orthodox Eternal, located on Biesel.

The Ravenous Consumer of Beastly Monsters within the Cloud - High Overseer of the Blood Eternal, located within the Viscerabelt.

Overseers make up the equivalent of the priesthood of the Eternal faith. Overseers work alongside the large Argus gestalts, primarily Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, to relay any important messages to the congregation and largely to act as mentors and trainers, passing on their knowledge to the followers of the Eternal. Most if not all Overseers are experts in other fields, often working in different roles whilst acting as an Overseer so that they might better meet with and pass on messages to the faithful. Most Overseers tend to be Dionae but it is possible for a committed non-Dionae to become one. By virtue of the audio symbology of the Eternal non-Dionae Overseers tend to be good singers. '''On station, an Overseer might work as, say, a medical doctor training other medical staff whilst also acting as an Overseer for the Eternal.'''

====The Iron Eternal====
Followed largely by the Dionae on Epsilon Ursae Minoris and Dionae supportive of synthetics. The Iron Eternal follows the basic doctrine of the Eternal however believes that the Eternal exists within the material universe, on death memories and experience are lost and that it is the Dioane’s destiny to utilize the machine to transcend to the next state of being, becoming as the Iron Eternal. To this end, they utilize machine interface technology and their own biology to fuse with machinery as well as data storage units, improving their data processing power, data retention and other biological functions, allowing easier transfer of knowledge in life as well as on death. Followers of the Iron Eternal give equal standing to synthetic life, believing it to be capable of forming its own memories and experiences which can be absorbed and passed into the “Light” via their machine components.

=====The Deathflower Journal=====
A monolith-like computer system made from an unknown green crystal material. It contains technical diagrams on the construction of various advanced technology albeit with references to esoteric, unknown materials. Importantly, it contains direct references to what the followers of the Iron Eternal believe to be the actual Iron Eternal itself, descriptions of its acts as a creator god machine and immutable proof of its existence as far as they are concerned.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Iron Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
'''The Song of Iron'''

The song which represents a greeting as well as reference to learning, knowledge and the Eternal. Can only be sung by augmented followers of the Eternal through their augmetics. It sounds like ‘’a soft binary burst, rising and falling until it gently fades.”
</div></div>

====The Orthodox Eternal====
Followed by the majority of Dionae, the Orthodox Eternal belief which is generally just referred to as “the Eternal'' offers a middle path for Dionae. A balance between the material universe and the immaterial spiritual beliefs of the greater Eternal. The Orthodox Eternal is the originator of almost all of the Eternal doctrine and overall philosophy, offering a balance between the transfer of knowledge materially through scholarly learning and data storage implants alongside learning through DNA.

====The Blood Eternal====
Followed largely by the Viscerabelt cluster and more unsavory, aggressive Dionae. The Blood Eternal is a more violent interpretation of the Eternal, represented by a blood red icon of the Eternal with a bloody maw.

Followers of the Blood Eternal are largely identical to their normal counterparts with one key difference: they prefer the consumption of flesh and blood to gain knowledge unlike regular followers of the Eternal who's pursuit of knowledge is largely based around standard scholarly learning. Blood Eternal followers also believe in the spread of Dionae biomass and growth through consumption of other biological matter over the perceived slow growth of mass through light and radiation. To this end, Blood Eternal followers tend to be more aggressive than their Orthodox or Iron counterparts as well as larger and stronger. The vast majority of the Blood Eternal followers are still sensible with their consumption of biomass- hunting animals, purchasing or at the very worst, stealing blood and flesh. The Blood Maw is the largest temple in the Viscerabelt and the known galaxy. Essentially a hollow asteroid coated in red, glistening Dioane biomass.

=====The Blood Well=====
An organic construction made from Dionae biomass. Based within the Blood Maw this large, pulsating biological machine stores collected blood samples up to 30 days for followers of the Blood Eternal to imbibe to aid in learning. Largely used to educate new born nymphs by submerging them in its central “well,” the machine provides a large cocktail of DNA to the nymph, bringing it rapidly into sapience. The Blood Well is very closely guarded and protected to prevent contamination.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Blood Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
'''The Song of Sacrifice'''

The song which represents sacrifice to the Eternal, death and feasting. It sounds like ‘’a bass boosted, howling dirge which ends in a bone rattling crescendo.”
</div></div>

====Burial and Practice====
All followers of the Eternal regardless of species believe that upon death their body should be preserved and merged with a growing Dionae gestalt as quickly as possible so their knowledge and experiences will live on. In this way Dioane believe they are immortal as long as they can be absorbed. Followers of the Iron Eternal focus mainly on preserving their data coils which contain their knowledge in digital form whereas Blood Eternal followers stress that the dead must be consumed and re-added to the mass. Orthodox Eternal followers tend to follow a balance of the two.

====The Ch’sssn’aah or “Great Conflict/Debate”====
Due to the polarising nature of the Iron Eternal (physical world, materialism) and the Blood Eternal (metaphysical, idealism) there is often great theological debate within the Eternal faith. Known as the “Great Conflict” or “Great Debate” (debate and conflict being synonymous in rootsong) the doctrinal arguments would strangle Eternal theology were it not for the counterweight provided by the “Orthodox” Eternal belief which serves as a middle path for the Dionae. Though never resorting to physical altercations, debate between Iron and Blood followers can rapidly rise from good natured jabs to heated exchanges.

====”Sn’aah” or “Eternal Debates”====
Followers of the Eternal and Dionae in general prefer to settle disputes non-violently through debate where possible. Though debates can become passionate and fiery, they all tend to follow the same basic rules as outlined in Eternal philosophy.

Overseers debate points of order collated by Connected to the Blossoms Beyond. Overseers sit in a forum and can only speak when formed into a circular shape known as “the form”. Only one gestalt can assume this form at a time. The debate is moderated by a High Overseer. Sometimes gestalts can get passionate/noisy especially when individual nymphs start to join in and multiple Overseers may end up assuming “the form” or just shouting out without assuming the form. The High Overseer will then call for “calm” usually by just saying/shouting “calm”. Overseers must then be silent. It can be difficult to quiet the Overseers but usually after a short time passions are pulled under control and civil silence reigns. If an Overseer won’t be quiet they can be ejected from the debate. To speak without being in the form and without authority by the High Overseer is called “talking from formless” and is considered against the rules. Overseers that continue to do so can be ejected from the debate. Connected to the Blossoms Beyond will then decide when a debate has reached its conclusion and give a verdict on its outcome, at which point a new point of order will be called and debate begins again. Eternal debates are essentially endless, with Connected to the Blossoms Beyond diverting aspects of itself to oversee them perpetually as Overseers come and go as they feel necessary.

This form of debate is also reflected in minor, ad hoc debates groups of Dionae might find themselves in.For example, a group of Dionae might want to debate on the next course of action in a research expedition. The group will hastily choose the most intelligent of the group to act as both the moderator and decider. The group will then debate as above, assuming “the form” until the elected moderator makes their decision which the rest of the group will follow. In very rare circumstances this might not always be the case and one member of the group my begin to enact the Schh’aah’shu or Rebel Path.

====Schh’aah’shu or “Rebel Path”====
“Pacifism is not passivism, do what you will and we shall do what we must.” Last words of ‘Hope of Starlight.’

Considered by the majority of Eternal followers to just merely be an aspect of the Sh’shu, an irreversible path towards unnecessary aggression and loss of self control. For those more “rebellious” gestalts the Schh’aah’shu or “Rebel Path” is a spiritual means to an end, a violent path in life one takes when there is no other choice. The Schh’aah’shu usually begins when a gestalt is faced with a situation they personally cannot tolerate, something beyond the pale with the only solution being calculated violent activity or reprisal. Naturally this is a very uncommon position for almost all gestalts who would much rather resolve issues lawfully as well as peacefully with words and good deeds. The most infamous (or famous depending on your position) example of a Dionae following the Schh’aah’shu was the Biesel Choir Sentinel Argus, Hope of Starlight, who ignored direct instruction by Overseers and naval enforcement by splitting into three cyclops gestalts before raiding a pirate vessel which was under investigation for smuggling sapient nymphs for slavery and food production. After killing its crew at the expense of two of it’s split partners, Hope of Starlight brought the vessel back to Biesel dock where it was violently apprehended by law enforcement officers as armed and dangerous. Treated largely as an example of stupidity, loss of control and a dark example of Sh’shu, Hope of Starlight is often idolised by rebellious gestalts as being an example of the Schh’aah’shu’s purity. Curiously, though followers of the Blood Eternal tend to be more aggressive, they are no more likely to follow the Schh’aah’shu then any other gestalt.

====Lexicon====
Key words and phrases of the Eternal which have made their way into Dionae culture on Biesel:

Bad Blooded - A dionae who is unnaturally aggressive.

Eternal Cycle - The Eternal Cycle. Refers to the cycle of life and death.

Void - Means nothingness. To be "returned to the void" is negative and implies a being or thing is no longer part of the eternal cycle. It has completely ceased to exist in any form. “The Void comes/calls” or just “The Void” is often said by Dioane and Eternal followers to mean “something bad is going to happen”, “what you are doing is going to have a dangerous outcome for you” or “I don’t like where this is going.”

Young Star - A Dionae who is on the path to becoming a star. This could mean through consumption of biomass but usually implies a scholar who is "absorbing" knowledge. A Dione scientist might be referred to as a "young star".

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Dionae Culture

2021-01-10T11:38:24Z

Zundy: /* ”Sn’aah” or “Eternal Debates” */

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==Culture==
Due to their highly nomadic nature, Dionae do not experience a universal culture outside of certain behaviours that appear to be biologically ingrained and somehow hard-wired into their genetics. Information on individual group cultures can be found in https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_History

===Naming===
Dionae naming conventions vary heavily based on gestalt, but have one consistency; They do not go by first name, last name, but instead use '''experiences, emotions, actions,''' or '''ideals''' as their source of identification. These experiences that define them can change just as the individual changes, and can be both literal and metaphorical. Some examples of where these might come from can be from routines in their lives, remembrances of mortals, a particular fascination in an emotion, a unique location where an important moment occurred, or even just a defining feature on their body. '''''As a player, it is up to you to decide what makes an experience, and you have a whole galaxy of cosmically ageless ideas to choose from. Be creative!'''''

====Experience Is What Matters====
The only time when one Diona is venerated above any other is when a more experienced and therefore more knowledgeable gestalt is present. This more experienced Diona is seen as more valuable due to their vaster stores of knowledge and therefore are protected over less experienced ones in a dangerous situation. A more experienced Diona will often take up the responsibility to educate a new one on their environment- including but not limited to the ways of local alien civilization. This is to simply get the newbie up to speed so they can be quicker on their way to learn more about their particular interests, whatever that may be.
More often than not, the older Diona is the more experienced, however this is not always true as a Diona gestalt may have spent its whole immortal life simply floating in a gas giant until it was scooped up into the fuel tank of a starship.

===Art===
While the species may make incredible artists in civilized space due to their longevity and capacity to learn, another form of visual art exists for Dionae that they practice as a recreational activity known simply as "Forma" and have two versions. Both utilize only their own bodies to make Gestalts in creative and practical ways alike. The first and most popular of the two is the Artem, or Art-Form. These are more for form than function and are used to display a Gestalt's creativity in strange and unique ways. Artem are typically observed being made in the void of space where they are free of the restrictions of gravity and require no rhyme nor reason to their design and exists purely as a hobby.

The second and perhaps most shocking of them is Vita, or Life-Form. Seen most often in some type of environment with gravity, there are two different forms: symbiotic which is done in the presence of other life forms, and competitive, preformed in areas where the concentration of Dionae are high. The symbiotic version is seen every day and is a form of passive mimicry to blend in with their extraterrestrial neighbors whereas the competitive version is a surprising display of violence. One is to increase their chance of survival in an alien landscape, the other used as a strange yet creative form of population control.

Competitive Vita is a theoretical evolution simulator where each Gestalt will merge, often as fantastical forms of creatures, which is then tested with the current environment they are in under different conditions. If present, they will then be tested against other non-sentient life forms before finally each other. Throughout the competition the losing Gestalts are either consumed or absorbed into their forms as additions, the final battle being the most dramatic display of a Gestalt's abilities. While most sapients would find this practice barbaric and contradictory to the species' desire to gain and preserve knowledge, the fallen and their knowledge simply become a part of the victorious.

===In Society===
Dionae are extremely complex, taking up many different types and forms. It is often said that Dionae have a hard time integrating into society, even though they are found in the majority of the nations throughout the galaxy. The largest clusters can be found within the Solarian Alliance, Jargon Federation, and the Republic of Biesel, however, there have been sights of ‘wild’ Dionae on the edges of civilized space. The ‘wild’ Dionae usually are integrated, but some have been hunted down for a unique resource located within them; Ambergris.

Their concept of money is vastly different from other races, considering Dionae only need a little radiation and warmth, both of which can be extracted from sunlight. Many of the gestalts are used often for space-related jobs, including exterior ship repairs and mining thanks to their immunity to the void, as long as there is light nearby. It is sometimes possible to find Dionae have become housemates with other species, paying rent, and doing various menial tasks in exchange for safe shelter.

Dionae have been known to form communes on the outskirts of the major cities, such as Mendell City and Phoenixport. The communes consist of various gestalts unifying to assist the surrounding environment, often beginning small restorative efforts in particular ecologically damaged areas. Many have said without these efforts, the vast majority of the woodlands on Biesel would have fallen years ago.

Details regarding Dionae in each specific nation can be found, here: https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_Relations

====Education====

Although Dionae can contain vast amounts of knowledge and possess extreme intelligence, the species still have to obtain the appropriate degrees for the occupation they wish to pursue in their chosen location of residence. This can be accomplished after being registered for citizenship. All newly-registered Dionae must complete and pass the courses required for their field if their degrees from past planetary systems is not recognized in the new location, or they lack one all together. Their education must be defended one year following the awarding of a degree, and then every five years there on out. However, that timer is reset due to the fact that after each merging, Dionae are required to defend their education along with their re-registration for citizenship due to the possibility of accumulation of new knowledge, and possible loss of information depending on the nature of the new merging.

===Relationships===
As sapient beings Dionae, from nymph to gestalt, are capable of forming platonic relationships with each other and other species. Nymphs and gestalts "merging" is the closest human analogue for a "romantic relationship" with Dionae. Due to the low complexity of nymph emotions and thought, initial merging into a [[Dionae_Forms#Cerberus|Cerberus]] tends to be carried out for practical purposes by all nymphs involved. Likewise, larger forms of Dionae such as [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]]’ and beyond might merge with a single nymph as a symbiotic form of a teacher/growth relationship with the nymph learning from its new gestalt partners and the gestalt itself using the new nymph for grown and biomass.

Due to the complexity of memory and thought, gestalts at [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] size and beyond are a lot more particular when merging with partners of a similar size or above. To merge is to become one mind and body in totality, therefore only those gestalts that truly love and respect each other would carry out the act. It is extremely rare for Dionae gestalts to split over disagreements and more likely for a “troublesome” or sick nymph to be ejected by the mass or a nymph to be temporarily split off to carry out a key task like safe exploration or to get help in a dangerous situation where the whole is in peril. In extreme cases the whole gestalt may break apart to save as many nymphs as possible. This is extremely traumatic, akin to losing yourself and is avoided. It’s a sad fact of life for gestalts from the Titan Prime cluster, most of which would have had to break apart multiple times throughout their lives.

When a gestalt grows beyond the size of a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]], it becomes difficult for these forms to find work within known space and therefore becomes necessary for the gestalt to split temporarily into smaller forms in order to carry out tasks throughout the day. These split forms are often referred to as a “split partner” or “part of me” by the gestalts involved. If pressed, a Dione might describe their split partner as an aspect of their whole which their partner represents; “they are the brave part of me”, “they are the smart part of me” or something similar. Splitting in this way is unpleasant for the gestalt but a necessary evil. Gestalts who split in this manner all suffer from [[Dionae#Psychology_and_Emotions|“splitting anxiety”]] and as such tend to work in close proximity to each other. Though analogous to a close romantic relationship, split Dionae are much closer than this in reality, essentially being aspects of a whole with each gestalt being a personality, memories and thoughts of a singular being, temporarily split apart. The larger the original gestalt the more split forms there could be, therefore it is possible for a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] gestalt to have many split partners.

===Blood Market===
The Blood Market, known as such colloquially, is a relatively private sector of the DNA Market. It operates out of a facility called ‘Bloodworks’ in District Ten, owned by the Blood Buddy Organization. The Market is mostly used by Dionae looking to enhance their skills in a certain field, or simply someone raising a nymph. The Bloodworks currently holds a monopoly over the lucrative trade, charging from 3000CR to 20,000CR for samples large enough for Dionae to learn from.

The ‘Blood Buddy Organization’ was founded by a Diona Argus, Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis, and is a ‘publically’ funded organization spearheaded by various Researchers from the Jargon Federation, Sol Alliance and Republic of Biesel. The company holds various fundraising events, where many skilful participants are noted to donate their blood in order to be sold on the market. The Blood Buddy Organization operates mostly within the Republic of Biesel, but are noted to sell their products to other nations. The largest donor to BBO is Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals, who recently gifted them the facility in District Eleven.

The Blood Market is not free of criminals, however, one particular group stands out more than the rest. The Blood Runners are notorious/renowned for their criminal undertakings, specifically their undercutting of the Blood Buddy Organization. The Blood Runners sell their samples from 1000CR to 10,000CR - leading the BBO to place reward for the arrest of the gang leader, Xia Lu-Qing. They have also been known to dabble in Corporate Espionage, using the Dionae’s ability to extract information from blood samples to their advantage.

==Military and Dionae Martialism==

As Dionae are generally pacifistic in their outlook they tend to operate in support positions within military units, acting as field medics, logistical support and any other function which does not involve direct aggression. That being said, under the teachings of the Eternal it is understood that there is a potential for violence to be unleashed by the powerful onto the powerless and thus it falls upon those who have undertaken martial studies to defend themselves and those unable to defend themselves. This is known as “Shh’sha’shu” or “The Divine Mandate to Defend All.” Dionae settlements that follow the principles of the Eternal are therefore aligned in their martial doctrines.

===Training===
''“Evil is just a lack of empathy and perspective. To understand is to be good.”''

In a universe largely unforgiving towards the Dionae it’s not uncommon for gestalts to study Dioane martial arts - “Shh’ush” or “Defence Mastery,” an art largely based on utilizing a Dionae’s great endurance and their opponent's momentum. The level of study a gestalt might undertake depends on a particular gestalts interest in martial studies overall with many dabbling in the art but not immersing themselves. Mastery of the student ranks or “Hshh’shee” allows a gestalt to ascend into full ranks or “Hshh” which serve as the highest scholarly ranks for martial studies and the military forces of the Dionae known collectively as “Guardians of Eternal” or “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” (The Guardians of the Divine Mandate to Defend All). Under the Eternal and generally for the majority of Dionae, combat or military defence isn’t a job but a calling and area of scholarly study. Other species might study Defence Mastery for it’s non-lethal takedowns however the art is especially suited for Dionae due to its reliance on their natural resilience and slower speed.

==== “Hshh’shee” or “Student Ranks”====
''“Waging war against good creatures is bad for the soul.”''

Initial training in Defence Mastery is focused on techniques to neutralise an opponent with minimal harm to both the user and their opponent. This is achieved by utilizing grapples, pins and stunning blows before retreating as well as methods of defensive retreat. Lethal force is not taught at this stage and is even strongly discouraged. Students at this level refer to themselves as “Shee” - Student or “One who is learning”. The teacher is referred to as whatever their rank may be. All teachers are those from the “Hshh” or “Full Ranks.” Advancement comes through mastery of the subjects being taught at each level and the completion of physical and written tests.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Ranks from lowest - high:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
Shee’sho - ‘’’First Rank’’’ aka Student of the First Level
At this level, students are taught techniques based around defensive retreat from a threat.

Shee’cho - ‘’’Second Rank’’’ aka Student of the Second Level
At this level, students are taught key close combat neutralization techniques alongside advanced defensive retreat forms, including methods to assist others in retreating from threats. Most Dionae who don’t feel the call tend to stop at this level.

Shee’cha - ‘’’Third Rank’’’ aka Student of the Third Level
At this level, students are taught a wider array of close combat neutralization techniques as well as being taught to master defensive retreats.

Shee’che - ‘’’Fourth Rank’’’ aka Student of the Fourth Level
At this level, students are taught how to utilize the environment/objects to assist in close combat neutralization as well as in defensive retreat.
</div></div>

====“Hshh” or “Full ranks”====
''“Holding hate in your heart is like grasping fire. It is you who is burnt in the end.”''

If a Dionae feels the call and has mastered the “Hshh’shee” or Student Ranks, they can opt to study the “Shh’sha’shu” or The Divine Mandate to Defend All and thus join the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” or Guardians of Eternal. This is a more intricate martial discipline and covers military history, doctrine, diplomacy, martial theology and all combat forms. Advancement through the ranks is achieved not just by mastery as with the student ranks but also with the approval of the teacher. As with any hierarchy, commands flow down the ranks to the Defenders.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Ranks from lowest - high:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">

Shh’ch - ‘’’Defender’’’ aka Defender of the Dionae
At this stage, a Dioane is taught lethal combat forms as well as the use of weaponry and vehicles. The “Shh’sha’shu” is also taught which includes military history, doctrine, diplomacy and martial theology. Escalation of force is also taught at this level with a focus on de-escalation. Police and security units would begin at this level.

Shh’ch’sha - ‘’’Sentinel’’’ aka Sentinel of the Heavens
At this stage, a Dioane is taught further combat forms and more advanced lessons from the “Shh’sha’shu.” They might begin to specialise in a particular martial method such as piloting, combat engineer or even logistics.

Uushh’ch - ‘’’Master’’’ aka Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae becomes an Overseer with mastery over combat and defence. A dioane at this level is familiar with all forms of the “Shh’sha’shu.”

Uushh’ch’sha - ‘’’Grand Master’’’ aka Grand Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae has not only mastered the “Shh’sha’shu” but also multiple specialties. It is possible due to the way in which the advancement system works within the “Shh’sha’shu” for every member of the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” to end up being a Grand Master barring the Marshall, though such a thing has never occurred historically.

Hss’shh’sha’shu - ‘’’Marshall’’’ aka Marshall of the Divine Mandate to Defend All
The highest rank in the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu.” At this stage a Dioane would hold superlative knowledge of the “Shh’sha’shu” and not just be an expert fighter and military leader but also a tremendous diplomat. Unlike all other ranks the Marshall is largely unique, with only one Marshall per independent Dionae nation. The current Marshalls are: ‘Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations’ of the Epsilon Expeditionary Force, ‘Metal Forms Made Ready‘ of the Narrows and ‘The First Lights Across the Void’ of the Biesel Choir.
</div></div>

==Religion==
The entrance of Dionae into the Orion Spur, alongside the Skrell, has been nothing short of a mystery - allowing many theories to form of their creation, some have even gone as far as to create religions surrounding the species.

===The Eternal===
[[File:Eternal.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Icons.|From left to right: Symbol of the Iron Eternal, symbol of the Orthodox Eternal, symbol of Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, symbol of the Blood Eternal.]]

====Belief====
Followers of '''The Eternal''' believe that a primordial entity exists in Light, Energy and Essence - which the Dionae are the embodiment of.

They believe that the Dionae were made to ensure that all things born from the stars return to stars, eventually. Before they may return the Dionae must devour as much knowledge and biomass as they can, growing exponentially until they reach the mythical Titan form, becoming a star once more. Transcended into a star, the Dionae will emit light and energy until they die, at which point their essence will spread across the void to birth new Dionae. It is in this way that '''the eternal cycle''' is achieved. Scholars of the Eternal link this to the very real potential outcome of Titan form Dionae which theoretically could grow to such mass as to collapse into a star, thus giving off "light and energy" before eventually going supernova and expelling matter or "essence" across the cosmos.

Dionae followers from outside of faction space (deep space or unknown frontier worlds) tend to be the most outspoken followers of the Eternal, preaching openly and trying to encourage Dionae alongside non-Dionae to join through words supported by good deeds, never by force.

The Eternal faith’s symbols originate as audio frequencies or “songs”. Non Dionae members of the faith have, with guidance from Overseers, “translated” many symbols into a visual format for non-Dionae. Those thoughts, feelings and symbols that are not able to be translated are “sung” to the faithful, with non-Dionae learning to understand and even sing these “symbols'' themselves.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">

'''The Song of the Eternal'''

The song of the symbol representing the Eternal and the faith in general. It sounds like ‘’a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.’’

'''The Song of Energy'''

The song of the symbol representing energy, birth and action. It sounds like ‘’an intense melody building into an aggressive crescendo before abruptly ending.”

'''The Song of Essence'''

The song of the symbol representing essence and strength. It sounds like “a long, strong melody slowly rising to a high note before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Greeting'''

The song of the emotion associated with a pleasant greeting. It sounds like “a brief, colorful melody.”

'''The Song of Light'''

The song of the symbol representing light, wisdom and nourishment. It sounds like “a loud, operatic melody which seems to travel upwards then downwards in pitch before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Love'''

The song of the emotion associated with a both romantic and platonic love. It sounds like “a soft, angelic melody that seems to drift through the air before softly ending.”

'''The Song of Mourning'''

The song of the emotion associated with both mourning the dead and mourning general deep loss. It sounds like “a strong, keening melody which slowly drifts into silence.”

'''In game, these audio symbols can be “sung” using the chat command “!” and copying everything from “a” in the song’s sound description. For example, “!sings a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.”'''
</div></div>
[[File:Eternal_symbols.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Symbols.|The translated symbols of the Eternal - Light, Energy and Essence.]]

====Leadership====
====Head of the Faith=====
The de facto leadership of the faith is made up of Argus sized and larger gestalts which commune with one another to philosophise about the nature of reality and the faith within it. In the known galaxy the current “head” of the faith is ‘Connected to the Blossoms Beyond’, an Argus gestalt living within the Eternal Temple of Biesel, who communicates with the ancient gestalts in
deep space.
====High Overseers=====
Under Blossoms are three High Overseers who act as respective “sub-heads” for the three Eternal Doctrines - the Iron Eternal, the Orthodox Eternal (known simply as the Eternal) and the Blood Eternal. These are:

Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations - High Overseer of the Iron Eternal, located on Epsilon Ursae Minoris

Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis - High Overseer of the Orthodox Eternal, located on Biesel.

The Ravenous Consumer of Beastly Monsters within the Cloud - High Overseer of the Blood Eternal, located within the Viscerabelt.

Overseers make up the equivalent of the priesthood of the Eternal faith. Overseers work alongside the large Argus gestalts, primarily Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, to relay any important messages to the congregation and largely to act as mentors and trainers, passing on their knowledge to the followers of the Eternal. Most if not all Overseers are experts in other fields, often working in different roles whilst acting as an Overseer so that they might better meet with and pass on messages to the faithful. Most Overseers tend to be Dionae but it is possible for a committed non-Dionae to become one. By virtue of the audio symbology of the Eternal non-Dionae Overseers tend to be good singers. '''On station, an Overseer might work as, say, a medical doctor training other medical staff whilst also acting as an Overseer for the Eternal.'''

====The Iron Eternal====
Followed largely by the Dionae on Epsilon Ursae Minoris and Dionae supportive of synthetics. The Iron Eternal follows the basic doctrine of the Eternal however believes that the Eternal exists within the material universe, on death memories and experience are lost and that it is the Dioane’s destiny to utilize the machine to transcend to the next state of being, becoming as the Iron Eternal. To this end, they utilize machine interface technology and their own biology to fuse with machinery as well as data storage units, improving their data processing power, data retention and other biological functions, allowing easier transfer of knowledge in life as well as on death. Followers of the Iron Eternal give equal standing to synthetic life, believing it to be capable of forming its own memories and experiences which can be absorbed and passed into the “Light” via their machine components.

=====The Deathflower Journal=====
A monolith-like computer system made from an unknown green crystal material. It contains technical diagrams on the construction of various advanced technology albeit with references to esoteric, unknown materials. Importantly, it contains direct references to what the followers of the Iron Eternal believe to be the actual Iron Eternal itself, descriptions of its acts as a creator god machine and immutable proof of its existence as far as they are concerned.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Iron Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
'''The Song of Iron'''

The song which represents a greeting as well as reference to learning, knowledge and the Eternal. Can only be sung by augmented followers of the Eternal through their augmetics. It sounds like ‘’a soft binary burst, rising and falling until it gently fades.”
</div></div>

====The Orthodox Eternal====
Followed by the majority of Dionae, the Orthodox Eternal belief which is generally just referred to as “the Eternal'' offers a middle path for Dionae. A balance between the material universe and the immaterial spiritual beliefs of the greater Eternal. The Orthodox Eternal is the originator of almost all of the Eternal doctrine and overall philosophy, offering a balance between the transfer of knowledge materially through scholarly learning and data storage implants alongside learning through DNA.

====The Blood Eternal====
Followed largely by the Viscerabelt cluster and more unsavory, aggressive Dionae. The Blood Eternal is a more violent interpretation of the Eternal, represented by a blood red icon of the Eternal with a bloody maw.

Followers of the Blood Eternal are largely identical to their normal counterparts with one key difference: they prefer the consumption of flesh and blood to gain knowledge unlike regular followers of the Eternal who's pursuit of knowledge is largely based around standard scholarly learning. Blood Eternal followers also believe in the spread of Dionae biomass and growth through consumption of other biological matter over the perceived slow growth of mass through light and radiation. To this end, Blood Eternal followers tend to be more aggressive than their Orthodox or Iron counterparts as well as larger and stronger. The vast majority of the Blood Eternal followers are still sensible with their consumption of biomass- hunting animals, purchasing or at the very worst, stealing blood and flesh. The Blood Maw is the largest temple in the Viscerabelt and the known galaxy. Essentially a hollow asteroid coated in red, glistening Dioane biomass.

=====The Blood Well=====
An organic construction made from Dionae biomass. Based within the Blood Maw this large, pulsating biological machine stores collected blood samples up to 30 days for followers of the Blood Eternal to imbibe to aid in learning. Largely used to educate new born nymphs by submerging them in its central “well,” the machine provides a large cocktail of DNA to the nymph, bringing it rapidly into sapience. The Blood Well is very closely guarded and protected to prevent contamination.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Blood Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
'''The Song of Sacrifice'''

The song which represents sacrifice to the Eternal, death and feasting. It sounds like ‘’a bass boosted, howling dirge which ends in a bone rattling crescendo.”
</div></div>

====Burial and Practice====
All followers of the Eternal regardless of species believe that upon death their body should be preserved and merged with a growing Dionae gestalt as quickly as possible so their knowledge and experiences will live on. In this way Dioane believe they are immortal as long as they can be absorbed. Followers of the Iron Eternal focus mainly on preserving their data coils which contain their knowledge in digital form whereas Blood Eternal followers stress that the dead must be consumed and re-added to the mass. Orthodox Eternal followers tend to follow a balance of the two.

====The Ch’sssn’aah or “Great Conflict/Debate”====
Due to the polarising nature of the Iron Eternal (physical world, materialism) and the Blood Eternal (metaphysical, idealism) there is often great theological debate within the Eternal faith. Known as the “Great Conflict” or “Great Debate” (debate and conflict being synonymous in rootsong) the doctrinal arguments would strangle Eternal theology were it not for the counterweight provided by the “Orthodox” Eternal belief which serves as a middle path for the Dionae. Though never resorting to physical altercations, debate between Iron and Blood followers can rapidly rise from good natured jabs to heated exchanges.

====”Sn’aah” or “Eternal Debates”====
Followers of the Eternal and Dionae in general prefer to settle disputes non-violently through debate where possible. Though debates can become passionate and fiery, they all tend to follow the same basic rules as outlined in Eternal philosophy.

Overseers debate points of order collated by Connected to the Blossoms Beyond. Overseers sit in a forum and can only speak when formed into a circular shape known as “the form”. Only one gestalt can assume this form at a time. The debate is moderated by a High Overseer. Sometimes gestalts can get passionate/noisy especially when individual nymphs start to join in and multiple Overseers may end up assuming “the form” or just shouting out without assuming the form. The High Overseer will then call for “calm” usually by just saying/shouting “calm”. Overseers must then be silent. It can be difficult to quiet the Overseers but usually after a short time passions are pulled under control and civil silence reigns. If an Overseer won’t be quiet they can be ejected from the debate. To speak without being in the form and without authority by the High Overseer is called “talking from formless” and is considered against the rules. Overseers that continue to do so can be ejected from the debate. Connected to the Blossoms Beyond will then decide when a debate has reached its conclusion and give a verdict on its outcome, at which point a new point of order will be called and debate begins again. Eternal debates are essentially endless, with Connected to the Blossoms Beyond diverting aspects of itself to oversee them perpetually as Overseers come and go as they feel necessary.

This form of debate is also reflected in minor, ad hoc debates groups of Dionae might find themselves in.For example, a group of Dionae might want to debate on the next course of action in a research expedition. The group will hastily choose the most intelligent of the group to act as both the moderator and decider. The group will then debate as above, assuming “the form” until the elected moderator makes their decision which the rest of the group will follow. In very rare circumstances this might not always be the case and one member of the group my begin to enact the Schh’aah’shu or Rebel Path.

====Schh’aah’shu or “Rebel Path”====
“Pacifism is not passivism, do what you will and we shall do what we must.” Last words of ‘Hope of Starlight.’

Considered by the majority of Eternal followers to just merely be an aspect of the Sh’shu, an irreversible path towards unnecessary aggression and loss of self control. For those more “rebellious” gestalts the Schh’aah’shu or “Rebel Path” is a spiritual means to an end, a violent path in life one takes when there is no other choice. The Schh’aah’shu usually begins when a gestalt is faced with a situation they personally cannot tolerate, something beyond the pale with the only solution being calculated violent activity or reprisal. Naturally this is a very uncommon position for almost all gestalts who would much rather resolve issues lawfully as well as peacefully with words and good deeds. The most infamous (or famous depending on your position) example of a Dionae following the Schh’aah’shu was the Biesel Choir Sentinel Argus, Hope of Starlight, who ignored direct instruction by Overseers and naval enforcement by splitting into three cyclops gestalts before raiding a pirate vessel which was under investigation for smuggling sapient nymphs for slavery and food production. After killing its crew at the expense of two of it’s split partners, Hope of Starlight brought the vessel back to Biesel dock where it was violently apprehended by law enforcement officers as armed and dangerous. Treated largely as an example of stupidity, loss of control and a dark example of Sh’shu, Hope of Starlight is often idolised by rebellious gestalts as being an example of the Schh’aah’shu’s purity. Curiously, though followers of the Blood Eternal tend to be more aggressive, they are no more likely to follow the Schh’aah’shu then any other gestalt.

====Lexicon====
Key words and phrases of the Eternal which have made their way into Dionae culture on Biesel:

Bad Blooded - A dionae who is unnaturally aggressive.

Eternal Cycle - The Eternal Cycle. Refers to the cycle of life and death.

Void - Means nothingness. To be "returned to the void" is negative and implies a being or thing is no longer part of the eternal cycle. It has completely ceased to exist in any form. “The Void comes/calls” or just “The Void” is often said by Dioane and Eternal followers to mean “something bad is going to happen”, “what you are doing is going to have a dangerous outcome for you” or “I don’t like where this is going.”

Young Star - A Dionae who is on the path to becoming a star. This could mean through consumption of biomass but usually implies a scholar who is "absorbing" knowledge. A Dione scientist might be referred to as a "young star".

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Dionae Culture

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==Culture==
Due to their highly nomadic nature, Dionae do not experience a universal culture outside of certain behaviours that appear to be biologically ingrained and somehow hard-wired into their genetics. Information on individual group cultures can be found in https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_History

===Naming===
Dionae naming conventions vary heavily based on gestalt, but have one consistency; They do not go by first name, last name, but instead use '''experiences, emotions, actions,''' or '''ideals''' as their source of identification. These experiences that define them can change just as the individual changes, and can be both literal and metaphorical. Some examples of where these might come from can be from routines in their lives, remembrances of mortals, a particular fascination in an emotion, a unique location where an important moment occurred, or even just a defining feature on their body. '''''As a player, it is up to you to decide what makes an experience, and you have a whole galaxy of cosmically ageless ideas to choose from. Be creative!'''''

====Experience Is What Matters====
The only time when one Diona is venerated above any other is when a more experienced and therefore more knowledgeable gestalt is present. This more experienced Diona is seen as more valuable due to their vaster stores of knowledge and therefore are protected over less experienced ones in a dangerous situation. A more experienced Diona will often take up the responsibility to educate a new one on their environment- including but not limited to the ways of local alien civilization. This is to simply get the newbie up to speed so they can be quicker on their way to learn more about their particular interests, whatever that may be.
More often than not, the older Diona is the more experienced, however this is not always true as a Diona gestalt may have spent its whole immortal life simply floating in a gas giant until it was scooped up into the fuel tank of a starship.

===Art===
While the species may make incredible artists in civilized space due to their longevity and capacity to learn, another form of visual art exists for Dionae that they practice as a recreational activity known simply as "Forma" and have two versions. Both utilize only their own bodies to make Gestalts in creative and practical ways alike. The first and most popular of the two is the Artem, or Art-Form. These are more for form than function and are used to display a Gestalt's creativity in strange and unique ways. Artem are typically observed being made in the void of space where they are free of the restrictions of gravity and require no rhyme nor reason to their design and exists purely as a hobby.

The second and perhaps most shocking of them is Vita, or Life-Form. Seen most often in some type of environment with gravity, there are two different forms: symbiotic which is done in the presence of other life forms, and competitive, preformed in areas where the concentration of Dionae are high. The symbiotic version is seen every day and is a form of passive mimicry to blend in with their extraterrestrial neighbors whereas the competitive version is a surprising display of violence. One is to increase their chance of survival in an alien landscape, the other used as a strange yet creative form of population control.

Competitive Vita is a theoretical evolution simulator where each Gestalt will merge, often as fantastical forms of creatures, which is then tested with the current environment they are in under different conditions. If present, they will then be tested against other non-sentient life forms before finally each other. Throughout the competition the losing Gestalts are either consumed or absorbed into their forms as additions, the final battle being the most dramatic display of a Gestalt's abilities. While most sapients would find this practice barbaric and contradictory to the species' desire to gain and preserve knowledge, the fallen and their knowledge simply become a part of the victorious.

===In Society===
Dionae are extremely complex, taking up many different types and forms. It is often said that Dionae have a hard time integrating into society, even though they are found in the majority of the nations throughout the galaxy. The largest clusters can be found within the Solarian Alliance, Jargon Federation, and the Republic of Biesel, however, there have been sights of ‘wild’ Dionae on the edges of civilized space. The ‘wild’ Dionae usually are integrated, but some have been hunted down for a unique resource located within them; Ambergris.

Their concept of money is vastly different from other races, considering Dionae only need a little radiation and warmth, both of which can be extracted from sunlight. Many of the gestalts are used often for space-related jobs, including exterior ship repairs and mining thanks to their immunity to the void, as long as there is light nearby. It is sometimes possible to find Dionae have become housemates with other species, paying rent, and doing various menial tasks in exchange for safe shelter.

Dionae have been known to form communes on the outskirts of the major cities, such as Mendell City and Phoenixport. The communes consist of various gestalts unifying to assist the surrounding environment, often beginning small restorative efforts in particular ecologically damaged areas. Many have said without these efforts, the vast majority of the woodlands on Biesel would have fallen years ago.

Details regarding Dionae in each specific nation can be found, here: https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_Relations

====Education====

Although Dionae can contain vast amounts of knowledge and possess extreme intelligence, the species still have to obtain the appropriate degrees for the occupation they wish to pursue in their chosen location of residence. This can be accomplished after being registered for citizenship. All newly-registered Dionae must complete and pass the courses required for their field if their degrees from past planetary systems is not recognized in the new location, or they lack one all together. Their education must be defended one year following the awarding of a degree, and then every five years there on out. However, that timer is reset due to the fact that after each merging, Dionae are required to defend their education along with their re-registration for citizenship due to the possibility of accumulation of new knowledge, and possible loss of information depending on the nature of the new merging.

===Relationships===
As sapient beings Dionae, from nymph to gestalt, are capable of forming platonic relationships with each other and other species. Nymphs and gestalts "merging" is the closest human analogue for a "romantic relationship" with Dionae. Due to the low complexity of nymph emotions and thought, initial merging into a [[Dionae_Forms#Cerberus|Cerberus]] tends to be carried out for practical purposes by all nymphs involved. Likewise, larger forms of Dionae such as [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]]’ and beyond might merge with a single nymph as a symbiotic form of a teacher/growth relationship with the nymph learning from its new gestalt partners and the gestalt itself using the new nymph for grown and biomass.

Due to the complexity of memory and thought, gestalts at [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] size and beyond are a lot more particular when merging with partners of a similar size or above. To merge is to become one mind and body in totality, therefore only those gestalts that truly love and respect each other would carry out the act. It is extremely rare for Dionae gestalts to split over disagreements and more likely for a “troublesome” or sick nymph to be ejected by the mass or a nymph to be temporarily split off to carry out a key task like safe exploration or to get help in a dangerous situation where the whole is in peril. In extreme cases the whole gestalt may break apart to save as many nymphs as possible. This is extremely traumatic, akin to losing yourself and is avoided. It’s a sad fact of life for gestalts from the Titan Prime cluster, most of which would have had to break apart multiple times throughout their lives.

When a gestalt grows beyond the size of a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]], it becomes difficult for these forms to find work within known space and therefore becomes necessary for the gestalt to split temporarily into smaller forms in order to carry out tasks throughout the day. These split forms are often referred to as a “split partner” or “part of me” by the gestalts involved. If pressed, a Dione might describe their split partner as an aspect of their whole which their partner represents; “they are the brave part of me”, “they are the smart part of me” or something similar. Splitting in this way is unpleasant for the gestalt but a necessary evil. Gestalts who split in this manner all suffer from [[Dionae#Psychology_and_Emotions|“splitting anxiety”]] and as such tend to work in close proximity to each other. Though analogous to a close romantic relationship, split Dionae are much closer than this in reality, essentially being aspects of a whole with each gestalt being a personality, memories and thoughts of a singular being, temporarily split apart. The larger the original gestalt the more split forms there could be, therefore it is possible for a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] gestalt to have many split partners.

===Blood Market===
The Blood Market, known as such colloquially, is a relatively private sector of the DNA Market. It operates out of a facility called ‘Bloodworks’ in District Ten, owned by the Blood Buddy Organization. The Market is mostly used by Dionae looking to enhance their skills in a certain field, or simply someone raising a nymph. The Bloodworks currently holds a monopoly over the lucrative trade, charging from 3000CR to 20,000CR for samples large enough for Dionae to learn from.

The ‘Blood Buddy Organization’ was founded by a Diona Argus, Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis, and is a ‘publically’ funded organization spearheaded by various Researchers from the Jargon Federation, Sol Alliance and Republic of Biesel. The company holds various fundraising events, where many skilful participants are noted to donate their blood in order to be sold on the market. The Blood Buddy Organization operates mostly within the Republic of Biesel, but are noted to sell their products to other nations. The largest donor to BBO is Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals, who recently gifted them the facility in District Eleven.

The Blood Market is not free of criminals, however, one particular group stands out more than the rest. The Blood Runners are notorious/renowned for their criminal undertakings, specifically their undercutting of the Blood Buddy Organization. The Blood Runners sell their samples from 1000CR to 10,000CR - leading the BBO to place reward for the arrest of the gang leader, Xia Lu-Qing. They have also been known to dabble in Corporate Espionage, using the Dionae’s ability to extract information from blood samples to their advantage.

==Military and Dionae Martialism==

As Dionae are generally pacifistic in their outlook they tend to operate in support positions within military units, acting as field medics, logistical support and any other function which does not involve direct aggression. That being said, under the teachings of the Eternal it is understood that there is a potential for violence to be unleashed by the powerful onto the powerless and thus it falls upon those who have undertaken martial studies to defend themselves and those unable to defend themselves. This is known as “Shh’sha’shu” or “The Divine Mandate to Defend All.” Dionae settlements that follow the principles of the Eternal are therefore aligned in their martial doctrines.

===Training===
''“Evil is just a lack of empathy and perspective. To understand is to be good.”''

In a universe largely unforgiving towards the Dionae it’s not uncommon for gestalts to study Dioane martial arts - “Shh’ush” or “Defence Mastery,” an art largely based on utilizing a Dionae’s great endurance and their opponent's momentum. The level of study a gestalt might undertake depends on a particular gestalts interest in martial studies overall with many dabbling in the art but not immersing themselves. Mastery of the student ranks or “Hshh’shee” allows a gestalt to ascend into full ranks or “Hshh” which serve as the highest scholarly ranks for martial studies and the military forces of the Dionae known collectively as “Guardians of Eternal” or “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” (The Guardians of the Divine Mandate to Defend All). Under the Eternal and generally for the majority of Dionae, combat or military defence isn’t a job but a calling and area of scholarly study. Other species might study Defence Mastery for it’s non-lethal takedowns however the art is especially suited for Dionae due to its reliance on their natural resilience and slower speed.

==== “Hshh’shee” or “Student Ranks”====
''“Waging war against good creatures is bad for the soul.”''

Initial training in Defence Mastery is focused on techniques to neutralise an opponent with minimal harm to both the user and their opponent. This is achieved by utilizing grapples, pins and stunning blows before retreating as well as methods of defensive retreat. Lethal force is not taught at this stage and is even strongly discouraged. Students at this level refer to themselves as “Shee” - Student or “One who is learning”. The teacher is referred to as whatever their rank may be. All teachers are those from the “Hshh” or “Full Ranks.” Advancement comes through mastery of the subjects being taught at each level and the completion of physical and written tests.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Ranks from lowest - high:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
Shee’sho - ‘’’First Rank’’’ aka Student of the First Level
At this level, students are taught techniques based around defensive retreat from a threat.

Shee’cho - ‘’’Second Rank’’’ aka Student of the Second Level
At this level, students are taught key close combat neutralization techniques alongside advanced defensive retreat forms, including methods to assist others in retreating from threats. Most Dionae who don’t feel the call tend to stop at this level.

Shee’cha - ‘’’Third Rank’’’ aka Student of the Third Level
At this level, students are taught a wider array of close combat neutralization techniques as well as being taught to master defensive retreats.

Shee’che - ‘’’Fourth Rank’’’ aka Student of the Fourth Level
At this level, students are taught how to utilize the environment/objects to assist in close combat neutralization as well as in defensive retreat.
</div></div>

====“Hshh” or “Full ranks”====
''“Holding hate in your heart is like grasping fire. It is you who is burnt in the end.”''

If a Dionae feels the call and has mastered the “Hshh’shee” or Student Ranks, they can opt to study the “Shh’sha’shu” or The Divine Mandate to Defend All and thus join the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” or Guardians of Eternal. This is a more intricate martial discipline and covers military history, doctrine, diplomacy, martial theology and all combat forms. Advancement through the ranks is achieved not just by mastery as with the student ranks but also with the approval of the teacher. As with any hierarchy, commands flow down the ranks to the Defenders.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Ranks from lowest - high:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">

Shh’ch - ‘’’Defender’’’ aka Defender of the Dionae
At this stage, a Dioane is taught lethal combat forms as well as the use of weaponry and vehicles. The “Shh’sha’shu” is also taught which includes military history, doctrine, diplomacy and martial theology. Escalation of force is also taught at this level with a focus on de-escalation. Police and security units would begin at this level.

Shh’ch’sha - ‘’’Sentinel’’’ aka Sentinel of the Heavens
At this stage, a Dioane is taught further combat forms and more advanced lessons from the “Shh’sha’shu.” They might begin to specialise in a particular martial method such as piloting, combat engineer or even logistics.

Uushh’ch - ‘’’Master’’’ aka Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae becomes an Overseer with mastery over combat and defence. A dioane at this level is familiar with all forms of the “Shh’sha’shu.”

Uushh’ch’sha - ‘’’Grand Master’’’ aka Grand Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae has not only mastered the “Shh’sha’shu” but also multiple specialties. It is possible due to the way in which the advancement system works within the “Shh’sha’shu” for every member of the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” to end up being a Grand Master barring the Marshall, though such a thing has never occurred historically.

Hss’shh’sha’shu - ‘’’Marshall’’’ aka Marshall of the Divine Mandate to Defend All
The highest rank in the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu.” At this stage a Dioane would hold superlative knowledge of the “Shh’sha’shu” and not just be an expert fighter and military leader but also a tremendous diplomat. Unlike all other ranks the Marshall is largely unique, with only one Marshall per independent Dionae nation. The current Marshalls are: ‘Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations’ of the Epsilon Expeditionary Force, ‘Metal Forms Made Ready‘ of the Narrows and ‘The First Lights Across the Void’ of the Biesel Choir.
</div></div>

==Religion==
The entrance of Dionae into the Orion Spur, alongside the Skrell, has been nothing short of a mystery - allowing many theories to form of their creation, some have even gone as far as to create religions surrounding the species.

===The Eternal===
[[File:Eternal.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Icons.|From left to right: Symbol of the Iron Eternal, symbol of the Orthodox Eternal, symbol of Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, symbol of the Blood Eternal.]]

====Belief====
Followers of '''The Eternal''' believe that a primordial entity exists in Light, Energy and Essence - which the Dionae are the embodiment of.

They believe that the Dionae were made to ensure that all things born from the stars return to stars, eventually. Before they may return the Dionae must devour as much knowledge and biomass as they can, growing exponentially until they reach the mythical Titan form, becoming a star once more. Transcended into a star, the Dionae will emit light and energy until they die, at which point their essence will spread across the void to birth new Dionae. It is in this way that '''the eternal cycle''' is achieved. Scholars of the Eternal link this to the very real potential outcome of Titan form Dionae which theoretically could grow to such mass as to collapse into a star, thus giving off "light and energy" before eventually going supernova and expelling matter or "essence" across the cosmos.

Dionae followers from outside of faction space (deep space or unknown frontier worlds) tend to be the most outspoken followers of the Eternal, preaching openly and trying to encourage Dionae alongside non-Dionae to join through words supported by good deeds, never by force.

The Eternal faith’s symbols originate as audio frequencies or “songs”. Non Dionae members of the faith have, with guidance from Overseers, “translated” many symbols into a visual format for non-Dionae. Those thoughts, feelings and symbols that are not able to be translated are “sung” to the faithful, with non-Dionae learning to understand and even sing these “symbols'' themselves.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">

'''The Song of the Eternal'''

The song of the symbol representing the Eternal and the faith in general. It sounds like ‘’a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.’’

'''The Song of Energy'''

The song of the symbol representing energy, birth and action. It sounds like ‘’an intense melody building into an aggressive crescendo before abruptly ending.”

'''The Song of Essence'''

The song of the symbol representing essence and strength. It sounds like “a long, strong melody slowly rising to a high note before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Greeting'''

The song of the emotion associated with a pleasant greeting. It sounds like “a brief, colorful melody.”

'''The Song of Light'''

The song of the symbol representing light, wisdom and nourishment. It sounds like “a loud, operatic melody which seems to travel upwards then downwards in pitch before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Love'''

The song of the emotion associated with a both romantic and platonic love. It sounds like “a soft, angelic melody that seems to drift through the air before softly ending.”

'''The Song of Mourning'''

The song of the emotion associated with both mourning the dead and mourning general deep loss. It sounds like “a strong, keening melody which slowly drifts into silence.”

'''In game, these audio symbols can be “sung” using the chat command “!” and copying everything from “a” in the song’s sound description. For example, “!sings a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.”'''
</div></div>
[[File:Eternal_symbols.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Symbols.|The translated symbols of the Eternal - Light, Energy and Essence.]]

====Leadership====
====Head of the Faith=====
The de facto leadership of the faith is made up of Argus sized and larger gestalts which commune with one another to philosophise about the nature of reality and the faith within it. In the known galaxy the current “head” of the faith is ‘Connected to the Blossoms Beyond’, an Argus gestalt living within the Eternal Temple of Biesel, who communicates with the ancient gestalts in
deep space.
====High Overseers=====
Under Blossoms are three High Overseers who act as respective “sub-heads” for the three Eternal Doctrines - the Iron Eternal, the Orthodox Eternal (known simply as the Eternal) and the Blood Eternal. These are:

Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations - High Overseer of the Iron Eternal, located on Epsilon Ursae Minoris

Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis - High Overseer of the Orthodox Eternal, located on Biesel.

The Ravenous Consumer of Beastly Monsters within the Cloud - High Overseer of the Blood Eternal, located within the Viscerabelt.

Overseers make up the equivalent of the priesthood of the Eternal faith. Overseers work alongside the large Argus gestalts, primarily Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, to relay any important messages to the congregation and largely to act as mentors and trainers, passing on their knowledge to the followers of the Eternal. Most if not all Overseers are experts in other fields, often working in different roles whilst acting as an Overseer so that they might better meet with and pass on messages to the faithful. Most Overseers tend to be Dionae but it is possible for a committed non-Dionae to become one. By virtue of the audio symbology of the Eternal non-Dionae Overseers tend to be good singers. '''On station, an Overseer might work as, say, a medical doctor training other medical staff whilst also acting as an Overseer for the Eternal.'''

====The Iron Eternal====
Followed largely by the Dionae on Epsilon Ursae Minoris and Dionae supportive of synthetics. The Iron Eternal follows the basic doctrine of the Eternal however believes that the Eternal exists within the material universe, on death memories and experience are lost and that it is the Dioane’s destiny to utilize the machine to transcend to the next state of being, becoming as the Iron Eternal. To this end, they utilize machine interface technology and their own biology to fuse with machinery as well as data storage units, improving their data processing power, data retention and other biological functions, allowing easier transfer of knowledge in life as well as on death. Followers of the Iron Eternal give equal standing to synthetic life, believing it to be capable of forming its own memories and experiences which can be absorbed and passed into the “Light” via their machine components.

=====The Deathflower Journal=====
A monolith-like computer system made from an unknown green crystal material. It contains technical diagrams on the construction of various advanced technology albeit with references to esoteric, unknown materials. Importantly, it contains direct references to what the followers of the Iron Eternal believe to be the actual Iron Eternal itself, descriptions of its acts as a creator god machine and immutable proof of its existence as far as they are concerned.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Iron Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
'''The Song of Iron'''

The song which represents a greeting as well as reference to learning, knowledge and the Eternal. Can only be sung by augmented followers of the Eternal through their augmetics. It sounds like ‘’a soft binary burst, rising and falling until it gently fades.”
</div></div>

====The Orthodox Eternal====
Followed by the majority of Dionae, the Orthodox Eternal belief which is generally just referred to as “the Eternal'' offers a middle path for Dionae. A balance between the material universe and the immaterial spiritual beliefs of the greater Eternal. The Orthodox Eternal is the originator of almost all of the Eternal doctrine and overall philosophy, offering a balance between the transfer of knowledge materially through scholarly learning and data storage implants alongside learning through DNA.

====The Blood Eternal====
Followed largely by the Viscerabelt cluster and more unsavory, aggressive Dionae. The Blood Eternal is a more violent interpretation of the Eternal, represented by a blood red icon of the Eternal with a bloody maw.

Followers of the Blood Eternal are largely identical to their normal counterparts with one key difference: they prefer the consumption of flesh and blood to gain knowledge unlike regular followers of the Eternal who's pursuit of knowledge is largely based around standard scholarly learning. Blood Eternal followers also believe in the spread of Dionae biomass and growth through consumption of other biological matter over the perceived slow growth of mass through light and radiation. To this end, Blood Eternal followers tend to be more aggressive than their Orthodox or Iron counterparts as well as larger and stronger. The vast majority of the Blood Eternal followers are still sensible with their consumption of biomass- hunting animals, purchasing or at the very worst, stealing blood and flesh. The Blood Maw is the largest temple in the Viscerabelt and the known galaxy. Essentially a hollow asteroid coated in red, glistening Dioane biomass.

=====The Blood Well=====
An organic construction made from Dionae biomass. Based within the Blood Maw this large, pulsating biological machine stores collected blood samples up to 30 days for followers of the Blood Eternal to imbibe to aid in learning. Largely used to educate new born nymphs by submerging them in its central “well,” the machine provides a large cocktail of DNA to the nymph, bringing it rapidly into sapience. The Blood Well is very closely guarded and protected to prevent contamination.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Blood Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
'''The Song of Sacrifice'''

The song which represents sacrifice to the Eternal, death and feasting. It sounds like ‘’a bass boosted, howling dirge which ends in a bone rattling crescendo.”
</div></div>

====Burial and Practice====
All followers of the Eternal regardless of species believe that upon death their body should be preserved and merged with a growing Dionae gestalt as quickly as possible so their knowledge and experiences will live on. In this way Dioane believe they are immortal as long as they can be absorbed. Followers of the Iron Eternal focus mainly on preserving their data coils which contain their knowledge in digital form whereas Blood Eternal followers stress that the dead must be consumed and re-added to the mass. Orthodox Eternal followers tend to follow a balance of the two.

====The Ch’sssn’aah or “Great Conflict/Debate”====
Due to the polarising nature of the Iron Eternal (physical world, materialism) and the Blood Eternal (metaphysical, idealism) there is often great theological debate within the Eternal faith. Known as the “Great Conflict” or “Great Debate” (debate and conflict being synonymous in rootsong) the doctrinal arguments would strangle Eternal theology were it not for the counterweight provided by the “Orthodox” Eternal belief which serves as a middle path for the Dionae. Though never resorting to physical altercations, debate between Iron and Blood followers can rapidly rise from good natured jabs to heated exchanges.

====”Sn’aah” or “Eternal Debates”====
Followers of the Eternal and Dionae in general prefer to settle disputes non-violently through debate where possible. Though debates can become passionate and fiery, they all tend to follow the same basic rules as outlined in Eternal philosophy.

Overseers debate points of order collated by Connected to the Blossoms Beyond. Overseers sit in a forum and can only speak when formed into a circular shape known as “the form”. Only one gestalt can assume this form at a time. The debate is moderated by a High Overseer. Sometimes gestalts can get passionate/noisy especially when individual nymphs start to join in and multiple Overseers may end up assuming “the form” or just shouting out without assuming the form. The High Overseer will then call for “calm” usually by just saying/shouting “calm”. Overseers must then be silent. It can be difficult to quiet the Overseers but usually after a short time passions are pulled under control and civil silence reigns. If an Overseer won’t be quiet they can be ejected from the debate. To speak without being in the form and without authority by the High Overseer is called “talking from formless” and is considered against the rules. Overseers that continue to do so can be ejected from the debate. Connected to the Blossoms Beyond will then decide when a debate has reached its conclusion and give a verdict on its outcome, at which point a new point of order will be called and debate begins again. Eternal debates are essentially endless, with Connected to the Blossoms Beyond diverting aspects of itself to oversee them perpetually as Overseers come and go as they feel necessary.

This form of debate is also reflected in minor, ad hoc debates groups of Dionae might find themselves in.For example, a group of Dionae might want to debate on the next course of action in a research expedition. The group will hastily choose the most intelligent of the group to act as both the moderator and decider. The group will then debate as above, assuming “the form” until the elected moderator makes their decision which the rest of the group will follow. In very rare circumstances this might not always be the case and one member of the group my begin to enact the Schh’aah’shu or Rebel Path.

***====Schh’aah’shu or “Rebel Path”====
“Pacifism is not passivism, do what you will and we shall do what we must.” Last words of ‘Hope of Starlight.’

Considered by the majority of Eternal followers to just merely be an aspect of the Sh’shu, an irreversible path towards unnecessary aggression and loss of self control. For those more “rebellious” gestalts the Schh’aah’shu or “Rebel Path” is a spiritual means to an end, a violent path in life one takes when there is no other choice. The Schh’aah’shu usually begins when a gestalt is faced with a situation they personally cannot tolerate, something beyond the pale with the only solution being calculated violent activity or reprisal. Naturally this is a very uncommon position for almost all gestalts who would much rather resolve issues lawfully as well as peacefully with words and good deeds. The most infamous (or famous depending on your position) example of a Dionae following the Schh’aah’shu was the Biesel Choir Sentinel Argus, Hope of Starlight, who ignored direct instruction by Overseers and naval enforcement by splitting into three cyclops gestalts before raiding a pirate vessel which was under investigation for smuggling sapient nymphs for slavery and food production. After killing its crew at the expense of two of it’s split partners, Hope of Starlight brought the vessel back to Biesel dock where it was violently apprehended by law enforcement officers as armed and dangerous. Treated largely as an example of stupidity, loss of control and a dark example of Sh’shu, Hope of Starlight is often idolised by rebellious gestalts as being an example of the Schh’aah’shu’s purity. Curiously, though followers of the Blood Eternal tend to be more aggressive, they are no more likely to follow the Schh’aah’shu then any other gestalt.

====Lexicon====
Key words and phrases of the Eternal which have made their way into Dionae culture on Biesel:

Bad Blooded - A dionae who is unnaturally aggressive.

Eternal Cycle - The Eternal Cycle. Refers to the cycle of life and death.

Void - Means nothingness. To be "returned to the void" is negative and implies a being or thing is no longer part of the eternal cycle. It has completely ceased to exist in any form. “The Void comes/calls” or just “The Void” is often said by Dioane and Eternal followers to mean “something bad is going to happen”, “what you are doing is going to have a dangerous outcome for you” or “I don’t like where this is going.”

Young Star - A Dionae who is on the path to becoming a star. This could mean through consumption of biomass but usually implies a scholar who is "absorbing" knowledge. A Dione scientist might be referred to as a "young star".

{{Navbox Lore}}
[[Category:Pages]]
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[[Category:Dionaea]]

File:Eternal.png

2021-01-10T11:36:42Z

Zundy: Zundy uploaded a new version of File:Eternal.png

Credit to Zundy, discord Zundy@5445.

Dionae Culture

2021-01-10T11:36:15Z

Zundy: /* Religion */ added religion rewrite

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==Culture==
Due to their highly nomadic nature, Dionae do not experience a universal culture outside of certain behaviours that appear to be biologically ingrained and somehow hard-wired into their genetics. Information on individual group cultures can be found in https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_History

===Naming===
Dionae naming conventions vary heavily based on gestalt, but have one consistency; They do not go by first name, last name, but instead use '''experiences, emotions, actions,''' or '''ideals''' as their source of identification. These experiences that define them can change just as the individual changes, and can be both literal and metaphorical. Some examples of where these might come from can be from routines in their lives, remembrances of mortals, a particular fascination in an emotion, a unique location where an important moment occurred, or even just a defining feature on their body. '''''As a player, it is up to you to decide what makes an experience, and you have a whole galaxy of cosmically ageless ideas to choose from. Be creative!'''''

====Experience Is What Matters====
The only time when one Diona is venerated above any other is when a more experienced and therefore more knowledgeable gestalt is present. This more experienced Diona is seen as more valuable due to their vaster stores of knowledge and therefore are protected over less experienced ones in a dangerous situation. A more experienced Diona will often take up the responsibility to educate a new one on their environment- including but not limited to the ways of local alien civilization. This is to simply get the newbie up to speed so they can be quicker on their way to learn more about their particular interests, whatever that may be.
More often than not, the older Diona is the more experienced, however this is not always true as a Diona gestalt may have spent its whole immortal life simply floating in a gas giant until it was scooped up into the fuel tank of a starship.

===Art===
While the species may make incredible artists in civilized space due to their longevity and capacity to learn, another form of visual art exists for Dionae that they practice as a recreational activity known simply as "Forma" and have two versions. Both utilize only their own bodies to make Gestalts in creative and practical ways alike. The first and most popular of the two is the Artem, or Art-Form. These are more for form than function and are used to display a Gestalt's creativity in strange and unique ways. Artem are typically observed being made in the void of space where they are free of the restrictions of gravity and require no rhyme nor reason to their design and exists purely as a hobby.

The second and perhaps most shocking of them is Vita, or Life-Form. Seen most often in some type of environment with gravity, there are two different forms: symbiotic which is done in the presence of other life forms, and competitive, preformed in areas where the concentration of Dionae are high. The symbiotic version is seen every day and is a form of passive mimicry to blend in with their extraterrestrial neighbors whereas the competitive version is a surprising display of violence. One is to increase their chance of survival in an alien landscape, the other used as a strange yet creative form of population control.

Competitive Vita is a theoretical evolution simulator where each Gestalt will merge, often as fantastical forms of creatures, which is then tested with the current environment they are in under different conditions. If present, they will then be tested against other non-sentient life forms before finally each other. Throughout the competition the losing Gestalts are either consumed or absorbed into their forms as additions, the final battle being the most dramatic display of a Gestalt's abilities. While most sapients would find this practice barbaric and contradictory to the species' desire to gain and preserve knowledge, the fallen and their knowledge simply become a part of the victorious.

===In Society===
Dionae are extremely complex, taking up many different types and forms. It is often said that Dionae have a hard time integrating into society, even though they are found in the majority of the nations throughout the galaxy. The largest clusters can be found within the Solarian Alliance, Jargon Federation, and the Republic of Biesel, however, there have been sights of ‘wild’ Dionae on the edges of civilized space. The ‘wild’ Dionae usually are integrated, but some have been hunted down for a unique resource located within them; Ambergris.

Their concept of money is vastly different from other races, considering Dionae only need a little radiation and warmth, both of which can be extracted from sunlight. Many of the gestalts are used often for space-related jobs, including exterior ship repairs and mining thanks to their immunity to the void, as long as there is light nearby. It is sometimes possible to find Dionae have become housemates with other species, paying rent, and doing various menial tasks in exchange for safe shelter.

Dionae have been known to form communes on the outskirts of the major cities, such as Mendell City and Phoenixport. The communes consist of various gestalts unifying to assist the surrounding environment, often beginning small restorative efforts in particular ecologically damaged areas. Many have said without these efforts, the vast majority of the woodlands on Biesel would have fallen years ago.

Details regarding Dionae in each specific nation can be found, here: https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_Relations

====Education====

Although Dionae can contain vast amounts of knowledge and possess extreme intelligence, the species still have to obtain the appropriate degrees for the occupation they wish to pursue in their chosen location of residence. This can be accomplished after being registered for citizenship. All newly-registered Dionae must complete and pass the courses required for their field if their degrees from past planetary systems is not recognized in the new location, or they lack one all together. Their education must be defended one year following the awarding of a degree, and then every five years there on out. However, that timer is reset due to the fact that after each merging, Dionae are required to defend their education along with their re-registration for citizenship due to the possibility of accumulation of new knowledge, and possible loss of information depending on the nature of the new merging.

===Relationships===
As sapient beings Dionae, from nymph to gestalt, are capable of forming platonic relationships with each other and other species. Nymphs and gestalts "merging" is the closest human analogue for a "romantic relationship" with Dionae. Due to the low complexity of nymph emotions and thought, initial merging into a [[Dionae_Forms#Cerberus|Cerberus]] tends to be carried out for practical purposes by all nymphs involved. Likewise, larger forms of Dionae such as [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]]’ and beyond might merge with a single nymph as a symbiotic form of a teacher/growth relationship with the nymph learning from its new gestalt partners and the gestalt itself using the new nymph for grown and biomass.

Due to the complexity of memory and thought, gestalts at [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] size and beyond are a lot more particular when merging with partners of a similar size or above. To merge is to become one mind and body in totality, therefore only those gestalts that truly love and respect each other would carry out the act. It is extremely rare for Dionae gestalts to split over disagreements and more likely for a “troublesome” or sick nymph to be ejected by the mass or a nymph to be temporarily split off to carry out a key task like safe exploration or to get help in a dangerous situation where the whole is in peril. In extreme cases the whole gestalt may break apart to save as many nymphs as possible. This is extremely traumatic, akin to losing yourself and is avoided. It’s a sad fact of life for gestalts from the Titan Prime cluster, most of which would have had to break apart multiple times throughout their lives.

When a gestalt grows beyond the size of a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]], it becomes difficult for these forms to find work within known space and therefore becomes necessary for the gestalt to split temporarily into smaller forms in order to carry out tasks throughout the day. These split forms are often referred to as a “split partner” or “part of me” by the gestalts involved. If pressed, a Dione might describe their split partner as an aspect of their whole which their partner represents; “they are the brave part of me”, “they are the smart part of me” or something similar. Splitting in this way is unpleasant for the gestalt but a necessary evil. Gestalts who split in this manner all suffer from [[Dionae#Psychology_and_Emotions|“splitting anxiety”]] and as such tend to work in close proximity to each other. Though analogous to a close romantic relationship, split Dionae are much closer than this in reality, essentially being aspects of a whole with each gestalt being a personality, memories and thoughts of a singular being, temporarily split apart. The larger the original gestalt the more split forms there could be, therefore it is possible for a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] gestalt to have many split partners.

===Blood Market===
The Blood Market, known as such colloquially, is a relatively private sector of the DNA Market. It operates out of a facility called ‘Bloodworks’ in District Ten, owned by the Blood Buddy Organization. The Market is mostly used by Dionae looking to enhance their skills in a certain field, or simply someone raising a nymph. The Bloodworks currently holds a monopoly over the lucrative trade, charging from 3000CR to 20,000CR for samples large enough for Dionae to learn from.

The ‘Blood Buddy Organization’ was founded by a Diona Argus, Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis, and is a ‘publically’ funded organization spearheaded by various Researchers from the Jargon Federation, Sol Alliance and Republic of Biesel. The company holds various fundraising events, where many skilful participants are noted to donate their blood in order to be sold on the market. The Blood Buddy Organization operates mostly within the Republic of Biesel, but are noted to sell their products to other nations. The largest donor to BBO is Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals, who recently gifted them the facility in District Eleven.

The Blood Market is not free of criminals, however, one particular group stands out more than the rest. The Blood Runners are notorious/renowned for their criminal undertakings, specifically their undercutting of the Blood Buddy Organization. The Blood Runners sell their samples from 1000CR to 10,000CR - leading the BBO to place reward for the arrest of the gang leader, Xia Lu-Qing. They have also been known to dabble in Corporate Espionage, using the Dionae’s ability to extract information from blood samples to their advantage.

==Military and Dionae Martialism==

As Dionae are generally pacifistic in their outlook they tend to operate in support positions within military units, acting as field medics, logistical support and any other function which does not involve direct aggression. That being said, under the teachings of the Eternal it is understood that there is a potential for violence to be unleashed by the powerful onto the powerless and thus it falls upon those who have undertaken martial studies to defend themselves and those unable to defend themselves. This is known as “Shh’sha’shu” or “The Divine Mandate to Defend All.” Dionae settlements that follow the principles of the Eternal are therefore aligned in their martial doctrines.

===Training===
''“Evil is just a lack of empathy and perspective. To understand is to be good.”''

In a universe largely unforgiving towards the Dionae it’s not uncommon for gestalts to study Dioane martial arts - “Shh’ush” or “Defence Mastery,” an art largely based on utilizing a Dionae’s great endurance and their opponent's momentum. The level of study a gestalt might undertake depends on a particular gestalts interest in martial studies overall with many dabbling in the art but not immersing themselves. Mastery of the student ranks or “Hshh’shee” allows a gestalt to ascend into full ranks or “Hshh” which serve as the highest scholarly ranks for martial studies and the military forces of the Dionae known collectively as “Guardians of Eternal” or “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” (The Guardians of the Divine Mandate to Defend All). Under the Eternal and generally for the majority of Dionae, combat or military defence isn’t a job but a calling and area of scholarly study. Other species might study Defence Mastery for it’s non-lethal takedowns however the art is especially suited for Dionae due to its reliance on their natural resilience and slower speed.

==== “Hshh’shee” or “Student Ranks”====
''“Waging war against good creatures is bad for the soul.”''

Initial training in Defence Mastery is focused on techniques to neutralise an opponent with minimal harm to both the user and their opponent. This is achieved by utilizing grapples, pins and stunning blows before retreating as well as methods of defensive retreat. Lethal force is not taught at this stage and is even strongly discouraged. Students at this level refer to themselves as “Shee” - Student or “One who is learning”. The teacher is referred to as whatever their rank may be. All teachers are those from the “Hshh” or “Full Ranks.” Advancement comes through mastery of the subjects being taught at each level and the completion of physical and written tests.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Ranks from lowest - high:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
Shee’sho - ‘’’First Rank’’’ aka Student of the First Level
At this level, students are taught techniques based around defensive retreat from a threat.

Shee’cho - ‘’’Second Rank’’’ aka Student of the Second Level
At this level, students are taught key close combat neutralization techniques alongside advanced defensive retreat forms, including methods to assist others in retreating from threats. Most Dionae who don’t feel the call tend to stop at this level.

Shee’cha - ‘’’Third Rank’’’ aka Student of the Third Level
At this level, students are taught a wider array of close combat neutralization techniques as well as being taught to master defensive retreats.

Shee’che - ‘’’Fourth Rank’’’ aka Student of the Fourth Level
At this level, students are taught how to utilize the environment/objects to assist in close combat neutralization as well as in defensive retreat.
</div></div>

====“Hshh” or “Full ranks”====
''“Holding hate in your heart is like grasping fire. It is you who is burnt in the end.”''

If a Dionae feels the call and has mastered the “Hshh’shee” or Student Ranks, they can opt to study the “Shh’sha’shu” or The Divine Mandate to Defend All and thus join the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” or Guardians of Eternal. This is a more intricate martial discipline and covers military history, doctrine, diplomacy, martial theology and all combat forms. Advancement through the ranks is achieved not just by mastery as with the student ranks but also with the approval of the teacher. As with any hierarchy, commands flow down the ranks to the Defenders.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Ranks from lowest - high:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">

Shh’ch - ‘’’Defender’’’ aka Defender of the Dionae
At this stage, a Dioane is taught lethal combat forms as well as the use of weaponry and vehicles. The “Shh’sha’shu” is also taught which includes military history, doctrine, diplomacy and martial theology. Escalation of force is also taught at this level with a focus on de-escalation. Police and security units would begin at this level.

Shh’ch’sha - ‘’’Sentinel’’’ aka Sentinel of the Heavens
At this stage, a Dioane is taught further combat forms and more advanced lessons from the “Shh’sha’shu.” They might begin to specialise in a particular martial method such as piloting, combat engineer or even logistics.

Uushh’ch - ‘’’Master’’’ aka Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae becomes an Overseer with mastery over combat and defence. A dioane at this level is familiar with all forms of the “Shh’sha’shu.”

Uushh’ch’sha - ‘’’Grand Master’’’ aka Grand Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae has not only mastered the “Shh’sha’shu” but also multiple specialties. It is possible due to the way in which the advancement system works within the “Shh’sha’shu” for every member of the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” to end up being a Grand Master barring the Marshall, though such a thing has never occurred historically.

Hss’shh’sha’shu - ‘’’Marshall’’’ aka Marshall of the Divine Mandate to Defend All
The highest rank in the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu.” At this stage a Dioane would hold superlative knowledge of the “Shh’sha’shu” and not just be an expert fighter and military leader but also a tremendous diplomat. Unlike all other ranks the Marshall is largely unique, with only one Marshall per independent Dionae nation. The current Marshalls are: ‘Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations’ of the Epsilon Expeditionary Force, ‘Metal Forms Made Ready‘ of the Narrows and ‘The First Lights Across the Void’ of the Biesel Choir.
</div></div>

==Religion==
The entrance of Dionae into the Orion Spur, alongside the Skrell, has been nothing short of a mystery - allowing many theories to form of their creation, some have even gone as far as to create religions surrounding the species.

===The Eternal===
[[File:Eternal.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Icons.|From left to right: Symbol of the Eternal, symbol of Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, symbol of the Blood Eternal.]]

====Belief====
Followers of '''The Eternal''' believe that a primordial entity exists in Light, Energy and Essence - which the Dionae are the embodiment of.

They believe that the Dionae were made to ensure that all things born from the stars return to stars, eventually. Before they may return the Dionae must devour as much knowledge and biomass as they can, growing exponentially until they reach the mythical Titan form, becoming a star once more. Transcended into a star, the Dionae will emit light and energy until they die, at which point their essence will spread across the void to birth new Dionae. It is in this way that '''the eternal cycle''' is achieved. Scholars of the Eternal link this to the very real potential outcome of Titan form Dionae which theoretically could grow to such mass as to collapse into a star, thus giving off "light and energy" before eventually going supernova and expelling matter or "essence" across the cosmos.

Dionae followers from outside of faction space (deep space or unknown frontier worlds) tend to be the most outspoken followers of the Eternal, preaching openly and trying to encourage Dionae alongside non-Dionae to join through words supported by good deeds, never by force.

The Eternal faith’s symbols originate as audio frequencies or “songs”. Non Dionae members of the faith have, with guidance from Overseers, “translated” many symbols into a visual format for non-Dionae. Those thoughts, feelings and symbols that are not able to be translated are “sung” to the faithful, with non-Dionae learning to understand and even sing these “symbols'' themselves.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">

'''The Song of the Eternal'''

The song of the symbol representing the Eternal and the faith in general. It sounds like ‘’a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.’’

'''The Song of Energy'''

The song of the symbol representing energy, birth and action. It sounds like ‘’an intense melody building into an aggressive crescendo before abruptly ending.”

'''The Song of Essence'''

The song of the symbol representing essence and strength. It sounds like “a long, strong melody slowly rising to a high note before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Greeting'''

The song of the emotion associated with a pleasant greeting. It sounds like “a brief, colorful melody.”

'''The Song of Light'''

The song of the symbol representing light, wisdom and nourishment. It sounds like “a loud, operatic melody which seems to travel upwards then downwards in pitch before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Love'''

The song of the emotion associated with a both romantic and platonic love. It sounds like “a soft, angelic melody that seems to drift through the air before softly ending.”

'''The Song of Mourning'''

The song of the emotion associated with both mourning the dead and mourning general deep loss. It sounds like “a strong, keening melody which slowly drifts into silence.”

'''In game, these audio symbols can be “sung” using the chat command “!” and copying everything from “a” in the song’s sound description. For example, “!sings a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.”'''
</div></div>
[[File:Eternal_symbols.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Symbols.|The translated symbols of the Eternal - Light, Energy and Essence.]]

====Leadership====
====Head of the Faith=====
The de facto leadership of the faith is made up of Argus sized and larger gestalts which commune with one another to philosophise about the nature of reality and the faith within it. In the known galaxy the current “head” of the faith is ‘Connected to the Blossoms Beyond’, an Argus gestalt living within the Eternal Temple of Biesel, who communicates with the ancient gestalts in
deep space.
====High Overseers=====
Under Blossoms are three High Overseers who act as respective “sub-heads” for the three Eternal Doctrines - the Iron Eternal, the Orthodox Eternal (known simply as the Eternal) and the Blood Eternal. These are:

Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations - High Overseer of the Iron Eternal, located on Epsilon Ursae Minoris

Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis - High Overseer of the Orthodox Eternal, located on Biesel.

The Ravenous Consumer of Beastly Monsters within the Cloud - High Overseer of the Blood Eternal, located within the Viscerabelt.

Overseers make up the equivalent of the priesthood of the Eternal faith. Overseers work alongside the large Argus gestalts, primarily Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, to relay any important messages to the congregation and largely to act as mentors and trainers, passing on their knowledge to the followers of the Eternal. Most if not all Overseers are experts in other fields, often working in different roles whilst acting as an Overseer so that they might better meet with and pass on messages to the faithful. Most Overseers tend to be Dionae but it is possible for a committed non-Dionae to become one. By virtue of the audio symbology of the Eternal non-Dionae Overseers tend to be good singers. '''On station, an Overseer might work as, say, a medical doctor training other medical staff whilst also acting as an Overseer for the Eternal.'''

====The Iron Eternal====
Followed largely by the Dionae on Epsilon Ursae Minoris and Dionae supportive of synthetics. The Iron Eternal follows the basic doctrine of the Eternal however believes that the Eternal exists within the material universe, on death memories and experience are lost and that it is the Dioane’s destiny to utilize the machine to transcend to the next state of being, becoming as the Iron Eternal. To this end, they utilize machine interface technology and their own biology to fuse with machinery as well as data storage units, improving their data processing power, data retention and other biological functions, allowing easier transfer of knowledge in life as well as on death. Followers of the Iron Eternal give equal standing to synthetic life, believing it to be capable of forming its own memories and experiences which can be absorbed and passed into the “Light” via their machine components.

=====The Deathflower Journal=====
A monolith-like computer system made from an unknown green crystal material. It contains technical diagrams on the construction of various advanced technology albeit with references to esoteric, unknown materials. Importantly, it contains direct references to what the followers of the Iron Eternal believe to be the actual Iron Eternal itself, descriptions of its acts as a creator god machine and immutable proof of its existence as far as they are concerned.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Iron Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
'''The Song of Iron'''

The song which represents a greeting as well as reference to learning, knowledge and the Eternal. Can only be sung by augmented followers of the Eternal through their augmetics. It sounds like ‘’a soft binary burst, rising and falling until it gently fades.”
</div></div>

====The Orthodox Eternal====
Followed by the majority of Dionae, the Orthodox Eternal belief which is generally just referred to as “the Eternal'' offers a middle path for Dionae. A balance between the material universe and the immaterial spiritual beliefs of the greater Eternal. The Orthodox Eternal is the originator of almost all of the Eternal doctrine and overall philosophy, offering a balance between the transfer of knowledge materially through scholarly learning and data storage implants alongside learning through DNA.

====The Blood Eternal====
Followed largely by the Viscerabelt cluster and more unsavory, aggressive Dionae. The Blood Eternal is a more violent interpretation of the Eternal, represented by a blood red icon of the Eternal with a bloody maw.

Followers of the Blood Eternal are largely identical to their normal counterparts with one key difference: they prefer the consumption of flesh and blood to gain knowledge unlike regular followers of the Eternal who's pursuit of knowledge is largely based around standard scholarly learning. Blood Eternal followers also believe in the spread of Dionae biomass and growth through consumption of other biological matter over the perceived slow growth of mass through light and radiation. To this end, Blood Eternal followers tend to be more aggressive than their Orthodox or Iron counterparts as well as larger and stronger. The vast majority of the Blood Eternal followers are still sensible with their consumption of biomass- hunting animals, purchasing or at the very worst, stealing blood and flesh. The Blood Maw is the largest temple in the Viscerabelt and the known galaxy. Essentially a hollow asteroid coated in red, glistening Dioane biomass.

=====The Blood Well=====
An organic construction made from Dionae biomass. Based within the Blood Maw this large, pulsating biological machine stores collected blood samples up to 30 days for followers of the Blood Eternal to imbibe to aid in learning. Largely used to educate new born nymphs by submerging them in its central “well,” the machine provides a large cocktail of DNA to the nymph, bringing it rapidly into sapience. The Blood Well is very closely guarded and protected to prevent contamination.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Blood Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
'''The Song of Sacrifice'''

The song which represents sacrifice to the Eternal, death and feasting. It sounds like ‘’a bass boosted, howling dirge which ends in a bone rattling crescendo.”
</div></div>

====Burial and Practice====
All followers of the Eternal regardless of species believe that upon death their body should be preserved and merged with a growing Dionae gestalt as quickly as possible so their knowledge and experiences will live on. In this way Dioane believe they are immortal as long as they can be absorbed. Followers of the Iron Eternal focus mainly on preserving their data coils which contain their knowledge in digital form whereas Blood Eternal followers stress that the dead must be consumed and re-added to the mass. Orthodox Eternal followers tend to follow a balance of the two.

====The Ch’sssn’aah or “Great Conflict/Debate”====
Due to the polarising nature of the Iron Eternal (physical world, materialism) and the Blood Eternal (metaphysical, idealism) there is often great theological debate within the Eternal faith. Known as the “Great Conflict” or “Great Debate” (debate and conflict being synonymous in rootsong) the doctrinal arguments would strangle Eternal theology were it not for the counterweight provided by the “Orthodox” Eternal belief which serves as a middle path for the Dionae. Though never resorting to physical altercations, debate between Iron and Blood followers can rapidly rise from good natured jabs to heated exchanges.

====”Sn’aah” or “Eternal Debates”====
Followers of the Eternal and Dionae in general prefer to settle disputes non-violently through debate where possible. Though debates can become passionate and fiery, they all tend to follow the same basic rules as outlined in Eternal philosophy.

Overseers debate points of order collated by Connected to the Blossoms Beyond. Overseers sit in a forum and can only speak when formed into a circular shape known as “the form”. Only one gestalt can assume this form at a time. The debate is moderated by a High Overseer. Sometimes gestalts can get passionate/noisy especially when individual nymphs start to join in and multiple Overseers may end up assuming “the form” or just shouting out without assuming the form. The High Overseer will then call for “calm” usually by just saying/shouting “calm”. Overseers must then be silent. It can be difficult to quiet the Overseers but usually after a short time passions are pulled under control and civil silence reigns. If an Overseer won’t be quiet they can be ejected from the debate. To speak without being in the form and without authority by the High Overseer is called “talking from formless” and is considered against the rules. Overseers that continue to do so can be ejected from the debate. Connected to the Blossoms Beyond will then decide when a debate has reached its conclusion and give a verdict on its outcome, at which point a new point of order will be called and debate begins again. Eternal debates are essentially endless, with Connected to the Blossoms Beyond diverting aspects of itself to oversee them perpetually as Overseers come and go as they feel necessary.

This form of debate is also reflected in minor, ad hoc debates groups of Dionae might find themselves in.For example, a group of Dionae might want to debate on the next course of action in a research expedition. The group will hastily choose the most intelligent of the group to act as both the moderator and decider. The group will then debate as above, assuming “the form” until the elected moderator makes their decision which the rest of the group will follow. In very rare circumstances this might not always be the case and one member of the group my begin to enact the Schh’aah’shu or Rebel Path.

***====Schh’aah’shu or “Rebel Path”====
“Pacifism is not passivism, do what you will and we shall do what we must.” Last words of ‘Hope of Starlight.’

Considered by the majority of Eternal followers to just merely be an aspect of the Sh’shu, an irreversible path towards unnecessary aggression and loss of self control. For those more “rebellious” gestalts the Schh’aah’shu or “Rebel Path” is a spiritual means to an end, a violent path in life one takes when there is no other choice. The Schh’aah’shu usually begins when a gestalt is faced with a situation they personally cannot tolerate, something beyond the pale with the only solution being calculated violent activity or reprisal. Naturally this is a very uncommon position for almost all gestalts who would much rather resolve issues lawfully as well as peacefully with words and good deeds. The most infamous (or famous depending on your position) example of a Dionae following the Schh’aah’shu was the Biesel Choir Sentinel Argus, Hope of Starlight, who ignored direct instruction by Overseers and naval enforcement by splitting into three cyclops gestalts before raiding a pirate vessel which was under investigation for smuggling sapient nymphs for slavery and food production. After killing its crew at the expense of two of it’s split partners, Hope of Starlight brought the vessel back to Biesel dock where it was violently apprehended by law enforcement officers as armed and dangerous. Treated largely as an example of stupidity, loss of control and a dark example of Sh’shu, Hope of Starlight is often idolised by rebellious gestalts as being an example of the Schh’aah’shu’s purity. Curiously, though followers of the Blood Eternal tend to be more aggressive, they are no more likely to follow the Schh’aah’shu then any other gestalt.

====Lexicon====
Key words and phrases of the Eternal which have made their way into Dionae culture on Biesel:

Bad Blooded - A dionae who is unnaturally aggressive.

Eternal Cycle - The Eternal Cycle. Refers to the cycle of life and death.

Void - Means nothingness. To be "returned to the void" is negative and implies a being or thing is no longer part of the eternal cycle. It has completely ceased to exist in any form. “The Void comes/calls” or just “The Void” is often said by Dioane and Eternal followers to mean “something bad is going to happen”, “what you are doing is going to have a dangerous outcome for you” or “I don’t like where this is going.”

Young Star - A Dionae who is on the path to becoming a star. This could mean through consumption of biomass but usually implies a scholar who is "absorbing" knowledge. A Dione scientist might be referred to as a "young star".

{{Navbox Lore}}
[[Category:Pages]]
[[Category:Lore]]
[[Category:Species]]
[[Category:Dionaea]]

Guide to Medicine

2021-01-08T16:55:22Z

Zundy: /* Dionaea */ They can now feel pain

{{TrailingMechanics}}
{{toc_right}}

== The Basics ==
===The Brain===
Everything in your body revolves around the brain. '''So long as your brain isn't dead, you're not dead.''' Everything else is just there to keep the brain alive, and the severity of any given injury is a direct measure of how much of a threat it poses to the brain.

Your brain - and, similarly, the brains of your patients - start out with an integrity of 100%. Certain types of effects can cause your brain's integrity to lower. When it hits 0%, you are braindead - and there's no coming back from that.

The things that pose the biggest threat to your brain, in approximate order of how common they are on board this ship, are:

# Lack of oxygen flow.
# Direct physical harm to the brain.
# Toxins in the bloodstream.

Lack of oxygen can be caused by many things - exposure to vacuum, being poisoned with [[Guide to Chemistry|Lexorin]], and so on. The most common cause of it, though, is '''[[Guide to Medicine#Blood Loss|blood loss]]'''.

Alternately, even if you're getting sufficient blood to your brain, and even if it's chock-full of delicious oxygen, '''toxins in your blood''' will still eat through your neurons pretty quickly. Your first line of defense against this is your liver, with your kidneys playing backup, but you'll still need to clear toxins out of your blood, through whatever means, as fast as possible. See [[Guide to Medicine#Organs|Organs]] and [[Guide to Medicine#Toxins|Toxins]], below, for more information.

And, finally, somebody shooting you in the brain will obviously not be a good thing for your brain integrity, either. Protect your noggin, or end up as a pink splatter on the walls.

=== Blood Loss ===

==== Blood Oxygenation ====
Blood loss, insufficient oxygenation of the blood, and lack of circulation are among the most common threats to patients' brains aboard the Aurora.

Mechanically, what ultimately matters is your level of '''blood oxygenation'''. This is a numerical value, ranging from 0% to 100%, determined by:

* Blood volume: Restore blood with [[Guide_to_Medicine#IV_Drip|IV drips]].
* Access to oxygen: Make sure they have breathable air (check if their internals are empty!). [[Chemistry|Dexalin (Plus)]] is also very helpful.
* Lungs and heart: A damaged heart is especially dangerous. [[Surgery]], [[Guide_to_Medicine#Cryo_cell|Cryotubes]], and [[Chemistry|Peridaxon]] all directly heal organs.

Below '''85% blood oxygenation''' your brain will start taking damage and it'll take damage faster and faster as oxygen becomes less and less available. Below 40%, it starts taking extra damage.

==== Pulse ====
If your blood oxygenation drops, your pulse rate will increase to compensate for it.
* Above '''150 BPM''', it will start damaging your heart. A damaged heart will lead to reduced blood oxygenation until healed.
* Above '''250 BPM''', the patient can and will enter cardiac arrest.

To lower the pulse, use [[Chemistry|Inaprovaline]] and/or [[Chemistry|Perconol/Mortaphenyl/Oxycomorphine]] to alleviate pain.

==== Blood Flow ====
If your heart doesn't beat, there is no blood flow. Blood flow is also reduced if heart is damaged, and can lead to low oxygenation even with full oxygen and blood volume.

=== Cardiac Arrest ===
Sometimes the heart just can't take it anymore and stops. Being in extreme pain will also skyrocket your pulse and can cause the heart to stop. This is indicated by a flatline on your medHUD.

'''If someone is in cardiac arrest, they are priority number one.'''

* If you are ever in doubt what to do, put the patient into a [[Guide_to_Medicine#Stasis_Bag|stasis bag]]. You can scan them with your health analyzer and inject them with a syringe even if the bag is closed.
* First, make sure the heart won't stop again. Was it caused by pain? Administer painkillers, a stimulant, and apply [[Guide_to_Medicine#CPR|CPR]].
* It could've been caused by low blood volume - hypovolemic shock. Get some blood into them with [[Guide_to_Medicine#IV_Drip|IV drips]] and restart the heart with some [[Guide_to_Medicine#CPR|CPR]].
* Was it caused by severe heart damage? You can see this if their blood oxygenation is dangerously low. Put them into a stasis bag or cryo tube, tell the Doctor that the patient needs instant surgery, then bring them in.
* It could've been caused by a lack of oxygen sending the heart into an abnormal rhythm. Restart the heart with [[Guide_to_Medicine#CPR|CPR]]. If they have air, that's it. Otherwise, administer Inaprovaline to stabilize their pulse.
* If you are non-medical, the patient is in surgery, or you just can't get a doctor, administer [[Guide_to_Medicine#CPR|CPR]].

=Triage=
Triage is medical's word for "priority" regarding patients. The goal of triage is to '''stabilize patients, not cure to 100%.''' Generally this comes into play when there is ''more than one'' patient. Wearing a [[File:MedGlasses.png]] medical HUD will allow you to assess a patient's basic status from a glance. the HUD will show a "pulse line" of your patient. This is not a true indicator of health, but of their heart rate.

*a patient with a green line, and a steady pulse line has a healthy beats per minute (BPM)
*a patient with yellow, more "hurried" line has a heightened BPM, this means their heart is beating rapidly, they may be in pain, and might warrant a look
*a patient with a red and more "muted" line has a weak heart rate. this may warrant immediate action.
*a patient with a flat, flashing red line is in what is called asystole, or "flat line". this is bad
*a patient with a blue, "slower" line has a lowered BPM, likely causing depleted blood oxygenation. This is most commonly caused by chemicals such as [[Guide_to_Chemistry#Pneumalin|Pneumalin]]
*a patient with a black line has no heart activity at all, they are either dead or lack a heart, such as IPC.

Patients who are in a critical state, or you suspect have internal injuries such as victims of gunshot wounds, should be considered a priority over "walking wounded". A person dies when their brain dies, which usually happens when their brain is starved of oxygen. People low on blood, weak heartbeat or respiration are at a greater risk of dying than someone with a broken leg. So work your way down, treating critical first, and saving those who can wait for last.

== Procedures ==

Beyond simply using the tools available to you, there are a variety of medical procedures that you can perform on your patients in order to help heal them.

=== CPR ===

If a patient's heart has stopped, there's no blood flow going to the brain. This can quickly result in brain death, and obviously should be corrected as quickly as possible, as mentioned above. However, if, for some reason, immediate resuscitation is not possible, CPR is a good way to extend a patient's life. Every time you perform CPR on a patient, it counts as one breath if their lungs are properly working, it circulates blood a little no matter what state heart is in, and with some luck, you might be able to restart their heart. Don't be afraid to crack some ribs while you're at it, remember, if they died with ribs intact, you didn't try hard enough!

CPR consists of two parts - the chest compressions to kickstart the heart and the mouth to mouth resuscitation to give them air. To perform CPR on a patient, they must be in cardiac arrest, and for the mouth-to-mouth part, neither of you can be wearing a mask or other mouth covering. '''Click on the patient with an empty hand in to perform CPR.''' This requires both of you to remain still for a short period. This can be repeated as many times as necessary until treatment can be administered.

=== Blood Transfusion ===

If a patient has lost a large amount of blood, they will require a blood transfusion to allow for full circulation and prevent further brain damage.

* Prepare an [[File:IVdrip.png‎‎|20px]] [[#IV drip|IV drip]] with a [[File:Bloodbag.png‎‎|20px]] blood bag containing an appropriate blood type (see below). If available, you should use Nanoblood, that is more efficient and does not care for blood types. You can order it in Cargo or have Chemist make some from plain blood.
* Ensure that the IV drip is in Inject mode.
* Attach the IV drip to the patient.
* Monitor the patient's blood oxygen levels and pulse via health analyzer.

* If an IV drip is not available, injecting the patient with blood from a syringe is workable, if a slow and cumbersome, option, as is administering blood pills.
* Iron, nutriment, protein and saline plus all speed up the patient's natural recovery of lost blood.

==== Blood Compatibility ====
It's important to use right type, so [[#Blood Rejection|bad things]] won't happen.
Blood between two different species is never compatible, even if it shares the same color. The pre-loaded blood bags in the Treatment Center storage closet contain a special kind of O-negative which can be given to any patient regardless of species without fear of rejection, but donated blood should be reserved for members of the same species.

If there is no O-negative blood available, and no precise blood type match as an alternative, look for a replacement by these rules:
* '''Negative''' can take '''only negative'''.
* '''All''' types can take '''O'''.
* '''A''' can take '''A'''.
* '''B''' can take '''B'''.
* '''AB''' can take '''A and B'''.
* '''O''' can take '''only O'''.
{| class="wikitable"
|+Blood Compatibility Chart
! rowspan="2" |Receiver
! colspan="8" |Donor
|-
!O-
!O+
!B-
!B+
!A-
!A+
!AB-
!AB+
|-
|'''AB+'''
| +
| +
| +
| +
| +
| +
| +
| +
|-
|'''AB-'''
| +
|
| +
|
| +
|
| +
|
|-
|'''A+'''
| +
| +
|
|
| +
| +
|
|
|-
|'''A-'''
| +
|
|
|
| +
|
|
|
|-
|'''B+'''
| +
| +
| +
| +
|
|
|
|
|-
|'''B-'''
| +
|
| +
|
|
|
|
|
|-
|'''O+'''
| +
| +
|
|
|
|
|
|
|-
|'''O-'''
| +
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|}

===Cryogenics===
Cryo is all about suspending someone in animation and healing them to boot! If someone is in a pretty bad way, tossing them into a (correctly setup) cryo tube will help with most problems on the surface, or the cryo tube will basically act like one gigantic stasis bag, minus the genetic damage.

* The cryogenic bath will only function at below 170K.
* The lower the temperature of the bath, the more effective the stasis function is.
* The higher the temperature of the bath, the more effective the healing function is. (As the chemicals are metabolised faster.)

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%">

==Triage and You: The Handbook==
<small>A large, comprehensive guide on how triage works with our current medical facility. <i>Authored by Juani#1784 and Synnono#2558.</i></small>
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
In compliance with NanoTrasen employee healthcare provisions, and due to the increasing stress on the Medical Department's facilities, a renovation of the Medical Bay was approved last year. The objective of this renovation is to improve the Medical Bay's capacity to treat patients, as well as to make that treatment more efficient. New policy has been implemented with the new design, and medical staff are expected to work according to the guidelines outlined in this document. In addition to the renovations, the medbay is introducing a triage system to quickly identify patients with urgent medical needs. New patients will be classified as having a <span style="color:green">GREEN</span>, <span style="color:gold">YELLOW</span>, <span style="color:orange">ORANGE</span> or <span style="color:red">RED</span> triage level, depending on their condition when processed. The major changes to the department are as follows:
*Centralized Triage Area (CTA): This room, equipped with two cutting-edge body scanners, will become the pillar of the Medical Bay. Located right next to the entrance, patients will be diagnosed here and assigned a color-coded triage level. Beds are available for patients awaiting treatment, organized by this triage level. Once assigned, patients will be redirected to one of the following areas:
*Intensive Care Unit (ICU): This room, intended for patients of triage level <span style="color:red">RED</span> or <span style="color:orange">ORANGE</span>, is equipped with all basic life support measures currently available. All supplies in this area must always be kept fully stocked. This room has one fixed and two mobile treatment beds, three refrigerated closets for stabilization equipment, a supply of blood packs and medication, one cryo-treatment tube and three IV drips. The area is signified by the color red and the ICU signs.
*Emergency Surgery Pre-Operatory Room: Intented for patients of triage level <span style="color:orange">ORANGE</span> or higher. Located in a straight line from the ICU, this area is designed to stabilize critical patients, and is equipped with the equipment necessary to do so. The area has two mobile treatment beds, two IV drips and one cold storage container for blood packs. The area is signified by the color red.
*Regular Surgery Pre-Operatory Room: Intended for patients of level <span style="color:gold">YELLOW</span> or lower. Its entrance is located at the west end of the CTA, and connected through a hallway to a waiting room. Patients will be instructed to wait for an assigned surgeon to call them into the Operating Theatre here. The area is equipped with personal storage lockers and a changing room for the safekeeping of patient belongings. The area is signified by the color blue.
*General Treatment Room (GTR): Intended for patients of triage level <span style="color:gold">YELLOW</span> or lower. The purpose of this room is for the general treatment of diseases or injuries that are not urgent or do not require of life-stabilization measures. The area is equipped with two fixed treatment beds, two cryo-treatment tubes, one sleeper unit with dialysis capability, and one IV drip. The area is signified by the color yellow and the GTR signs.

Other sections of the Medical Bay have not changed, or do not follow a strict procedure for triage. Please be aware of the following information, as it pertains to the new medical layout:
*The Chemistry laboratory no longer connects directly to a publicly accessible area. For the purpose of easy access by the staff of the station, remote-control buttons have been installed at the reception desk and at the Chemistry desk. To access the desk, crew requiring access will need to get permission from the reception staff to access the consultation wing hallway.
*The temporary morgue no longer uses morgue trays. Medical staff are asked to keep the temporary morgue as clear as possible, and store cadavers in the permanent morgue on the medical sub-level as soon as possible.
*A pneumatic Medi-Express system has been installed, to allow for quick delivery of medicine to various areas of the medbay. The hub for this system is located east of the Chemistry Laboratory. To use the system, simply place the items to be delivered inside the bin labeled with the desired destination, and engage the pump. It will be delivered shortly, if the pneumatic tank is full. The Medi-Express system can deliver items to the Lobby, Main Storage and Surgery Wing.
*Windows have been installed in the Operating Theatres. These windows are equipped with an electrically-activated opacity system, toggled by a switch in each Operating Theatre. Usage of this system is mandatory during all surgical prcedures to preserve patient privacy.
*Noticeboards have been installed in the Surgery Wing for each Operating Theatre, for posting scans of any patients about to enter treatment.
*Access to the medical bay will generally be restricted to medical staff and patients awaiting or receiving treatment. Patients in long-term recovery are allowed to receive no more than one visitor at a time. This restriction does not apply to security detainees, who may be accompanied at all times by up to three security officers. Visitors may be instructed to wait at the waiting room located at the entrance of the Medical Bay. The ultimate authority in regards to these restrictions will be the Chief Medical Officer (and their superiors), who may modify them as they see fit. Charges of trespassing may be applied to visitors who violate this policy. Visitors who obstruct care to patients in violation of this policy may be held liable for resulting harm or loss of life. Please clarify any concerns with your facility's Head of Security.
Yours,<br>
Yehtlas Mualt-Quaat, Chief Medical Director.<br>
NanoTrasen Corporation.

[[File:Triage_guide.png]]
</div></div>

=Diagnostics=

==Damage Types==

===<span style="color:red"><u>Brute</u></span>===
Cuts, lacerations, and bruising all make up the red descriptions on the health analyzer, normally caused by physical trauma such as punching, getting hit with something, being dragged with open wounds, slamming into walls, depressurization, etc. Sometimes high brute values may break bones, which will require [[Surgery]], or the limb may even become dismembered! Treatment for brute damage on its own is listed below:
* '''Gauze''': Heals 4 brute per wound. Stops bleeding.
* '''Advanced Trauma Kits''': Heals 8 brute per wound. Stops bleeding and also disinfect wounds if applied early.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Bicaridine|'''Bicaridine''']]: A red colored medicine which heals 5 brute per unit, meaning a full syringe will heal 75 brute damage. Overdoses at 20u.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Butazoline|'''Butazoline''']]: A red colored medicine which heals 8 brute per unit, meaning a full syringe will heal 120 brute damage. Overdoses at 15u.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Tricordrazine|'''Tricordrazine''']]: A purple medicine that heals all <u>underlined</u> damage, healing 3 damage per unit. Overdoses at 30u.
* Do not mix Bicaridine and Butazoline, as this will result in the patient taking high levels of [[Guide to Medicine#Genetic|genetic damage]]

===<span style="color:orange"><u>Burn</u></span>===
Skins, burns, and scars make up the yellow descriptions on the health analyzer, normally caused by intense temperatures such as fire, extremely cold temperatures, lasers, and electrocution. Exceptionally high burn values may vaporize a limb, and can cause bloodloss on top of easily becoming infected. Massive amounts of burn damage may cause your character to be 'husked'. Treatment for burn damage on its own is listed below:
* '''Ointment''': Heals 4 burn per wound. Disinfects wounds.
* '''Advanced Burn Kits''': Essentially the burn variant of ATKs. Primarily used to disinfect burn wounds.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Basic_Treatments|'''Kelotane''']]: A yellow colored medicine which heals 6 burn per unit, meaning a full syringe will heal 90 burn damage. Overdoses at 20u.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Standard_Treatments|'''Dermaline''']]: An orange-yellow colored medicine which heals 12 burn per unit. Overdoses at 15u.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Tricordrazine|'''Tricordrazine''']]: A purple medicine that heals all <u>underlined</u> damage, healing 3 damage per unit. Overdoses at 30u.
* Do not mix Kelotane and Dermaline, as this will result in the patient taking high levels of [[Guide to Medicine#Genetic|genetic damage]]

===<span style="color:green"><u>Toxin</u></span>===
While Toxin damage isn't technically damage in the sense Brute or Burn damage are, toxins can pose issues to treatment. They are most commonly identified as unidentified chemicals in a patient's bloodstream via a health analyzer. Treatment for toxins is listed below:
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Dylovene|'''Dylovene''']]: A green colored medicine which counteracts certain toxin side effects, while removing most common toxins. Overdoses at 20u.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Fluvectionem|'''Fluvectionem''']]: A dark purple colored medicine which removes all other chemicals reagents from the bloodstream. Overdoses at 20u.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Pulmodeiectionem|'''Pulmodeiectionem''']]: A dark purple colored medicine which causes the patient to cough up any reagents in their lungs when inhaled. Overdoses at 10u.
* Dialysis or stomach pumps can be performed using the sleepers found in the GTR or ICU. This is a fast and certain way to remove toxins from a patient's bloodstream or stomach respectively.

===<span style="color:blue"><u>Suffocation (Hypoxia)</u></span>===
Suffocation damage, like Toxin damage, isn't a real damage, but a general term for low blood oxygenation, seen via health analyzer. It may be caused by blood loss, damaged lungs or heart or lack of oxygen in the environment. Treatment for hypoxia on its own is listed below:
* '''CPR''': Time to put those first aid courses to use! As long as you and your patient aren't wearing anything that covers the face you'll be able to perform CPR to keep the patient alive for a bit longer by clicking them on help intent. This procedure must be repeated consistently in order to be effective.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Inaprovaline|'''Inaprovaline''']]: A cyan colored medicine which doesn't actually heal hypoxia, but instead halts any further damage, and mildly kills pain. Overdoses at 20u.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Dexalin|'''Dexalin''']]: A blue colored medicine which forces blood oxygenation up to 50%. Overdoses at 20u.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Dexalin_Plus|'''Dexalin Plus''']]: A blue colored medicine which forces blood oxygenation up to 80%. Overdoses at 15u.

===<span style="color:grey">Genetic</span>===
Damage dealt by radiation, slime digestion, coming out of a stasis bag, which the health analyzer can only determine by means of a red prompt, requiring a body scanner for a precise measurement of genetic damage. Treatment for genetic damage is listed below:
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Cryoxadone|'''Cryoxadone''']]: A pale blue medicine which heals the above damage including genetic damage, but requires that the body be cooled to 170 Kelvin or lower, usually by means of cryo cells.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Clonexadone|'''Clonexadone''']]: A pale blue medicine which works exactly the same as Cryoxadone, but does everything faster.
* '''Cryo-Mix''': A 1:1 mix of Cryoxadone and Clonexadone, works much like KeloDerm in that the two medicines work separately, therefore faster.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Advanced_Treatments|'''Rezadone''']]: A green medicine which heals genetic damage without the need for cold temperatures. Overdoses at 20u, though 10u may induce dizziness.

===<span style="color:lime">Radiation</span>===
Damage dealt by exposure to the Supermatter, being injected with radioactive reagents, or destroying/activating particular artifacts make up radiation damage, which the health analyzer can only determine by means of a red prompt, requiring a body scanner for a precise measurement of radiation damage. Treatment for radiation damage is listed below:
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Hyronalin|'''Hyronalin''']]: A green medicine which heals 30 radiation per unit, albeit slowly, but does not heal the resulting damage of radiation. Overdoses at 20u.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Arithrazine|'''Arithrazine''']]: A green medicine which heals 70 radiation, albeit slowly, but has the side effect of dealing some brute damage. Overdoses at 20u.

===<span style="color:purple">Organ</span>===
Damage represented on the body scanner that corresponds with the trauma inflicted on organs, either by certain poisons, severe physical trauma, bones moving in the area organs are present (lower body, chest, head), or certain items necessary for function being absent. An organ is considered dead at 30 damage. The mostly deadly form of organ damage is [[#Brain|brain damage]], which leads to death at 100 damage instead of 30. Treatment for organ damage is listed below:
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Peridaxon|'''Peridaxon''']]: A purple medicine which heals 1 organ damage per unit, and heals all internal organs. Overdoses at 10u.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Alkysine|'''Alkysine''']]: A yellow medicine which heals 30 organ damage per unit, but only heals the brain. Overdoses at 10u.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Oculine|'''Oculine''']]: A pale lavender medicine which heals 5 organ damage per unit, but only heals the eyes. Overdoses at 20u.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Adipemcina|'''Adipemcina''']]: A green medicine which heals 2 organ damage per unit, but only heals the heart. Overdoses at 20u.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Pneumalin|'''Pneumalin''']]: A purple medicine which heals 1.5 organ damage per unit, but only heals the lungs, and only when inhaled. Overdoses at 15u.
* [[Guide to Chemistry#Inaprovaline|'''Inaprovaline''']]: A blue medicine which heals the brain if it's below minor damage. Overdoses at 20u.

==Other==
===Blood Loss===
[[File:Bloodchart.jpg|256px|right]]
Blood carries oxygen to various areas in the body of a patient, and without oxygenation (whether by lack of air or lack of blood, in this case) the patient will slowly decline in health until they die, therefore stopping bleeding is <u>your top priority</u>, and should be treated as a critical injury. For low blood levels, administering Dexalin will help with the oxy damage resulting from blood loss, and will help alleviate the risk of brain damage as a result. Critical blood levels, however, will result in massive spikes of hypoxia and annoying toxins. Blood loss also results in losing lots of nutrition. Symptoms of blood loss can be found below:
*'''89% of original blood volume/501u and lower:'''
**'''Analyzer says <span style="color:red">LOW BLOOD</span>''' - This is probably the first thing you'll see if you analyze someone.
**'''Patient feels dizzy''' - They will state vocally that they feel dizzy/faint.
**'''Patient rapidly becomes hungry''' - Low blood generates hunger. Oddly enough, the nutrition used doesn't correlate to the amount of blood regenerated.
*'''60% of original blood volume/336u and lower:'''
**'''Analyzer says <span style="color:red">CRITICAL BLOOD LEVELS</span>''' - Hard to miss text telling you to get going or the patient will soon meet their demise.
**'''Patient feels extremely dizzy''' - Emphasis on ''extremely''.
**'''Patient has trouble seeing''' - Cloudy vision and having a hard time keeping their eyes open.
**'''Patient is unconscious''' - Not enough blood to keep them conscious, which means they can't tell you about their peril.
**'''Increasing oxygen damage''' - Determined with the analyzer, but the prompt above will probably tell you that before you read their damage.
**'''Pale skin''' - As a result of high oxygen damage, determined by examining with a grab.
*'''40% of original blood volume/224u and lower:'''
**'''Aggressive oxygen damage''' - At this point, the oxyloss will start escalating quickly.
**'''Increasing toxin damage''' - Assuming the patient survives to this point without dying, toxins will begin to manifest.
*'''21% of original blood volume/122u and lower:'''
**'''Huge spike in toxins''' - Like, 300 damage or so.
**'''Death.'''
Treatment to stop bleeding is listed below:
*For external bleeding cases:

**'''Gauze''': This is the most basic item in medical to treat cuts and lacerations provided you have enough of it.
**'''Advanced Trauma Kit''': ATKs are better than gauze as they can disinfect the wound when it's used, and instantly heals 8 brute damage per wound.
*For internal bleeding (IB) cases:
**'''Cryogenics''': Placing a patient with internal bleeding into a (correctly setup) cryo tube will both halt (not fix) the bleeding ''and'' stop it from getting worse. This is a temporary solution.
**'''[[Guide_to_Chemistry#Standard_Treatments|Bicaridine and Inaprovaline]]''': These two medicines together (they have to be together, not separate) will prevent the internal bleeding from worsening, but will not halt the bleeding.
**'''[[Surgery#Internal_Bleeding|Surgery]]''': The main method of treating internal bleeding is through surgery by means of the Fix'O'Vein.
**'''[[Guide_to_Chemistry#Bicaridine|Bicaridine]]''': Overdosing Bicaridine (30u) will, of course, deal toxins to the patient, but it may clot internal bleeding. Generally a last resort if none of the other methods are available.
**[[Guide to Chemistry#Coagzolug|'''Coagzolug''']]: Coagzolug can help slow bleeding, buying you more time to treat a patient. Overdoses at 10u.
Once the bleeding has ceased, you will have to help the patient raise their blood count. The following are some methods to assist with that:
*'''[[Guide_to_Chemistry#Standard_Treatments|Dexalin/Dexalin Plus]]''': Will assist in oxygenating the blood, helping to prevent potential brain damage.
*'''Iron''': A simple reagent that ''must be ingested'' in order to work. Replenishes 8u of blood per unit.
*'''Nutriment''': Basic nutrients. Must be ingested. Replenishes 4u of blood per unit.
*'''Protein''': Animal proteins found in meat. Must be ingested. Replenishes 4u of blood per unit.
*'''20 Iron, 20 Nutriment, 20 Protein''': The three reagents mentioned above in one 60u pill, which can replenish blood rather quickly as there are three separate reagents.
*'''IV Drip with compatible blood''': Bloodbags can hold 200u of blood (a little less than half a patient's total blood volume) and is generally a fast method of replacing blood.
*'''IV Drip with Saline Plus''': Administering 1.5u/tick of Saline Plus will rapidly replenish their blood and works for all species.

====[[File:IVDrip.png|64px]]IV Drips====
Speaking of IVs and blood bags, you should probably know how to use them, since blood loss sucks so bad, it's also bad by extension to not know the primary method of treating it. IVs are just objects you can pull around that transfer reagents from a container - preferably blood bags - into a patient's bloodstream via needle. This can be accomplished by clickdragging the IV onto the patient to hook them up. Here are a few features of the IV, most accessed via right-click context menu:
*Injects and draws blood. The drawing mode will ping once the patient reaches 90% blood volume.
*Transfer rate can be adjusted between 0.001 and 4 units per second, important for IB cases.
*Fits reagent containers, and is not actually limited to blood bags, good for keeping someone sustained on a medicine.
Additionally, blood bags can have their displayed type determined by using a pen on the bag.

===Infection===
Infections sprout when a wound isn't treated and disinfected in time, and is accompanied by a fever (check temperature). If left alone, infections can rapidly kill a patient, even exponentially if it's bad enough. Infections are commonly identified by means of the body scanner. The following are the levels of infection:
*'''L1 (Mild)''': Pain messages and the start of fever.
*'''L2 (Acute)''': More pain messages, infection becomes more prevalent and visible.
*'''L3 (GANGRENE)''': Beginning of lethal toxins, organ death, and necrosis.
The following are some symptoms of infection based on where it's located:
*'''Meningitis (Brain)'''
**L1: Stiff neck
**L2: Severe headache (+1 confusion at random intervals)
*'''Conjunctivitis (Eyes)'''
**L1: Itchy eyes
**L2: Blurred vision (+10 eye_blurry at random intervals)
*'''Endocarditis (Heart)'''
**L1: Chest tightness
**L2: Chest pain (+25 halloss)
*'''Pyelonephritis (Kidneys)'''
**L1: Lower back pain
**L2: Malaise
*'''Pyogenic Abscess (Liver)'''
**L1: Right side abdomen pain
**L2: Poor blood filtration (toxins buildup)
*'''Pneumonia (Lungs)'''
**L1: Coughing
**L2: Shortness of breath (+30 oxyloss)
*'''Staph Infection (All external limbs)'''
**L1: Pain notificiation
**L2: Sharp pain temporarily disables limb
L2 infections and lower require only 15u of [[Guide_to_Chemistry#Anti_Microbials|Thetamycin]] and monitoring. L3 infections require far more. Regardless, immediately pairing with Dylovene and Tricordrazine to accompany the high toxins is a good idea. The following will go over further necessary treatments:
*'''Limb gangrene''':
**Conduct [[Surgery#Necrotic_Limb_Repair|necrotic limb repair]].
*'''Organ necrosis''':
*#Request a replacement synthetic organ from Research immediately.
*#[[Surgery#Organ_Removal.2FTransplantation|Remove the organ via surgery and replace it with the synthetic counterpart]].
**If the brain or heart is necrotic, the patient will need to be constantly supervised and treated to prevent death.

===Fractures===
Bones fractures can be separated by three identifications: hairline, fracture, and broken. These three different types of fractures no longer play any part mechanically, though from an RP standpoint, hairline is the least severe while broken is the most severe (and therefore painful). Fractures can, however, deal damage to organs if they move around. Treatment for fractures is listed below:
*'''Splints''': A half-cast that keeps the fractured bone in place and prevents it from moving. '''This is a temporary remedy,''' and requires the following to actually treat...
*'''[[Surgery#Bone_Repair|Surgery]]''': By means of bone gel and bone setter, a fracture can be mended rather quickly.

====Dislocations====
Not actually a fracture or even a problem related to surgery, but it will function as a fracture in that the limb will become incapacitated. Fixing it simply requires that you stand next to the patient and use the 'Undislocate-Joint' verb. If there are multiple dislocations, a prompt will appear asking which limb you would like to relocate.

===Mycosis===
Unsterilized K'ois happens to be a rather tasty snack... if you're a Vaurca, anyway. If you're any other race, you're going to have a '''really bad time'''. Aside from containing phoron, K'ois (excluding K'ois bars found in unhacked vendors) can cause a myriad of problems which can all be summed up as '''Mycosis''', a term used to describe fungal infection. Early stages of K'ois infection involve pain and coughing blood. Stage 2 brings about respiratory issues. Stage 3 involves feelings of something squirming inside, as well as phoron and K'ois paste beginning to fill the patient's lungs, dealing large toxins. Fungal spore emission begins at Stage 4 which will embed and grow more K'ois, spreading to anyone who doesn't have their own internal atmosphere setup.

Treatment for K'ois infection is dangerous for both you and the patient. You must wear internals - a sterile mask or gas mask on its own '''will not work''' - in order to avoid breathing in spores and infecting yourself. Once you've ensured your internals are running, begin the [[Surgery#Organ_Removal.2FTransplantation|K'ois removal procedure]] and treat the remaining toxins and blood loss. If the patient is already at Stage 4, it is '''top priority''' that they be kept isolated from everyone else, otherwise the fungus will spread to others and make everything worse.

===Mental Trauma and Policy===
* All characters with a [[Medical_Doctor|Medical Doctorate]] degree are capable of diagnosing [[Psychologist#Mental_Trauma|mental trauma]], as well as prescribing medication for their diagnosis.
* [[Surgeon|Surgery]] trained Medical personnel are fully capable of Neuro-surgery where necessary to treat mental trauma.
* [[Chemist|Chemists/Pharmacists]] are fully capable of synthesizing mental medication, but they cannot diagnose mental trauma, or prescribe medicine.
* [[Psychologist|Psychiatrists/Psychologists]] are the foremost experts on this type of illness, they are the only capable of advanced treatment ([[Psychologist#Hypnosis|Hypnosis,]] [[Psychologist#Crystal_Therapy|Crystal Therapy]], and [[Psychologist#Isolation|Isolation]]) and they should be the first to treat [[Psychologist#Mental_Trauma|mental trauma]] when available.

==[[File:Healthanalyzer.png|64px]]Health Analyzer==
Probably the number one go-to tool in diagnostics (up there with the HUD and body scanner) is the health analyzer, a pocket-sized device that you can use on a patient to assess their health. Health bar showed up? Analyzer. Someone says they don't feel well? Analyzer. Below is an example of what you would see on a slightly injured patient. Keep in mind, the basic analyzer won't show you the numbers, but only a description of their current state. Science can make an advanced analyzer, which will show precise readings.

[[File:HealthScanResults.png|300px]]

==[[File:Bscanner.gif]][[File:Bscanner_console.gif]]The Body Scanner==
Essentially a stationary and much bigger health analyzer. This section will cover what the screen will look like and what you can derive from it.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! <span style="text-align:left">
Overall Health
----
John Doe => <span style="color:green">Conscious</span><br>
Species: Human<br>
Health: 100<br>
=> Brute Damage: 0<br>
=> Resp. Damage: 0<br>
=> Toxin Damage: 0<br>
=> Burn Severity: 0<br>
----
Radiation Lvl: <span style="color:green">0 Rads</span><br>
Genetic Dmg: <span style="color:green">0%</span><br>
Est. Brain Dmg: <span style="color:green">0%</span><br>
Est. Paralysis Lvl: 0%<br>
Body Temperature: 310.005 K (~35 C)<br>
Viral Status: <span style="color:green">Not Detected</span>
----
Blood Status
----
Blood Level: 100% (560u)<br>
=> Inaprovaline: 0 unit(s)<br>
=> Soporific: 0 units(s)<br>
=> Bicaridine: 0 unit(s)<br>
=> Dermaline: 0 unit(s)<br>
=> Dexalin: 0 unit(s)<br>
=> Other: 0 unit(s)<br>
----
Body Status
----
lungs<br>
=> Burn Dmg: 0<br>
=> Brute Dmg: 20<br>
=> Information: Is ruptured.
----
Actions<br>
[Print Report]
|}

As you can see, this provides much more information, probably the most sought after info being anything below the '''Body Status''' heading.
*'''Overall Health'''
**'''Name''': Just the name of the patient and their current state. Conscious, unconscious, dead.
**'''Species''': The species of the patient. See [[Guide to Medicine#Races|below]] for how each race reacts differently to treatments.
**'''Health''': The real overall health of the patient. 100 is perfect health, -100 is dead.
**'''=> Damage''': The four main types of damage that can be pulled from a health analyzer.
**'''Radiation Level''': How many rads the patient has soaked. See [[Guide to Medicine#Radiation|Radiation Damage]] above.
**'''Genetic Damage''': How much the patient's skin is falling off.
**'''Estimated Brain Damage''': How much organ damage has been dealt to the brain.
**'''Estimated Paralysis Level''': How much time is left until the patient wakes up/can move.
**'''Body Temperature''': Temperature measured in Kelvin and estimated in Celsius.
**'''Viral Status''': Tells whether or not a pathogen has been detected.
*'''Blood Status'''
**'''Blood Level''': How much blood the patient has.
**'''=> Reagent''': How much of a certain reagent there is in the blood stream. '''Other''' is pretty much anything that isn't already on the list, which can represent either good or bad reagents.
*'''Body Status'''
**'''Organ''': Tells how much burn and brute damage an organ/limb has, as well as information about it if applicable.
*'''Actions'''
**'''Print Report''': Will print out a page of what you already saw on screen. Best done when the patient has fractures or organ damage. Printed reports that are no longer being used should be placed in the filing cabinet behind the reception desk.

==Other Tools==
Some other fancy but somewhat niche tools to diagnose issues within a patient are as follows.

===[[File:Breathanalyzer.png|64px]]Breath Analyzer===
The breath analyzer is capable of ascertaining the status of a patient's lungs, and whether or not they have alcohol in their blood.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! <span style="text-align:left">
'''Breath Sample Results:'''<br>
Subject oxygen levels nominal.<br>
Subject lung health nominal.<br>
Blood Alcohol Content: 0 <span style="color:lime">'''[NORMAL]'''</span>
</span>
|}
Not much info, but it'll do:
*'''Oxygen Levels''': This will quickly inform you if someone's oxygenation is pretty bad. Values above 25 oxy damage will be marked as abnormal.
*'''Lung Health''': Quick way to determine lung damage. Even one damage is enough to tell you that there's a problem. 10 damage and up indicates a rupture.
*'''BAC''': How much alcohol has made its way into the blood, usually from drinking alcoholic drinks. Unless there's heavy intoxication (0.12 and higher) or something more severe, it's probably fine to ignore this.

===[[File:Stethoscope.png|64px]]Stethoscope===
The stethoscope is rather ancient but it is still a valuable tool to have, as it's capable of diagnosing problems with hearts and lungs. Aiming at the chest and clicking the patient with a stethoscope in hand will tell you about their heart and lungs. The stethoscope can also be attached to your jumpsuit.
*'''Heart'''
**'''Weak/odd heartbeat''' - Heart damage or high hypoxia.
**'''No heartbeat''' - The patient is dead, or they have a synthetic heart. [[Changeling|Or they're just joking around.]]
*'''Lungs'''
**'''Wheezing/gurgling''' - Lung damage or high hypoxia.
**'''No breathing''' - They are dead.

===[[File:Penlight.png|64px]]Penlight===
The penlight is yet another tool capable of diagnosing organs, this time the eyes. Aiming at the eyes and clicking the patient with a penlight in hand will tell you about their eyes.
*'''Their eyes narrow''' - Patient's eyes are fine and functioning normally.
*'''Visible damage''' - Self explanatory.
*'''Slow reaction''' - Blurry vision.
*'''Delay between both eyes''' - Brain damage.
*'''Pinpointed pupils''' - Opiates.
*'''Dilated pupils''' - Other non-beneficial drugs.
*'''Glowing''' - Patient has a mutation.
*'''No reaction''' - The patient is dead or their eyes are damaged beyond function.

===Grabbing and Examining===
If you have nothing else, then your eyes can give you a rough idea of how a patient is doing. If not your eyes, then your hands when you grab a patient.
*'''Examining''' - Examining is simply done by shift clicking the patient, or using the right-click context menu and clicking Examine.
**'''Bleeding'''
***'''Bleeding cut on limb''' - They're obviously bleeding from the limb in question.
***'''Blood soaking under clothing''' - They are bleeding under the clothing in question. For uniforms this can mean their upper or lower body.
**'''Brute Damage'''
***'''Bruise''' - Patient was attacked with a blunt object. Ranges from tiny to monumental.
***'''Cut''' - Patient was attacked with a sharp object. Ranges from scabs to massive flesh wounds. High chance of bleeding.
***'''Puncture''' - Patient was likely shot. Ranges from punctures to gaping holes. High chance of bleeding.
**'''Burn Damage''' - Patient was burned, either from fire/freezing temperatures or electrocution. Ranges from skins to carbonized limbs.
*'''Grabbing''' - Grab examines are done by grabbing someone and clicking on them with the grab in hand on help intent. You do not need to let go and grab again when switching which limb to examine.
**'''Wounds''' - Will inform you of any burns and bruises on the target limb. See above.
**'''Bones''' - Will inform you if the patient's limb is broken or not.
**'''Skin'''
***'''Unhealthy Discoloration''' - Patient has high toxins.
***'''Unusually Pale''' - Patient has moderate hypoxia.
***'''Decaying Limb''' - Patient's limb is necrotic.

=Common Treatments=
So we're past the quick guides and diagnostics, now it's time to elaborate on how medicine works inside the patient. The [[Guide to Chemistry]] may be a good page to visit to get a good idea of what each particular medicine can do.

===[[File:Syringes.png|64px]]Injections===
This is the most common, quickest, and effective way to administer treatments to patients, involving medicine being injected straight into the bloodstream to be metabolized immediately at full effect. Injecting the patient is usually left unhindered unless they are wearing armor devoid of an injection port, something that voidsuits and hardsuits possess. Generally when you read about the effects of medicine, it's implied that those are the results you will get if you inject it into the patient. '''Note:''' Syringes spawn with a cap which keeps them uninfected. Using the same syringe over and over will increase the risk of infection and will pass viruses from one patient to the other. Use new ones! '''Hyposprays''' can be found in the medical doctor lockers in the medical sub-level. They act like syringes without the risk of causing infection upon re-use.

===[[File:Pillbottle.png|64px]]Pills===
Pills are the second most common way to administer medicines, which are taken orally and metabolize at half effect in comparison to injection. Pills are mostly used for low-priority treatments or prescriptions, and are best <s>shoved down the victim's throat whether they like it or not</s> given to the patient along with instruction to swallow it. A patient wearing anything that covers the mouth will obviously be unable to take pills, making them unideal for patients in EVA gear.

===[[File:Autoinhaler.png|64px]]Inhalation===
Inhalers are a recent addition to the medical side of Aurora, and medicines from inhalers are obviously inhaled into the lungs. All medicines - save for a few such as Dexalin - are 3/4 as effective as injecting when inhaled, which is a quarter above pills at least. Autoinhalers found in aid kits come with 5u of Dexalin, but the contents can be removed/replaced by using a syringe on the inhaler. Non-expendable variants can be found in the CMO's office and in chemistry equipment lockers, along with small 15u cartridges that can be filled with whatever.

===[[File:Traumakit.png|64px]]Topical Applications===
This mostly applies to bandages and ointment, kits and equipment that you can use on a patient from the get-go. While we do not have medicinal patches, we do have trauma and burn kits for basic wound treatment, as well as for sealing bleeding and disinfecting wounds.

=Your Organs!=
All organs (the ones that were coded in anyway) serve some purpose, but it all boils down to "keep the brain alive". This section will describe what everything does and what may manifest if the organ in question is damaged. It should be noted that organs may be damaged if their respective limb/body part has fractures. All organs can be repaired with [[Guide to Chemistry#Advanced_Treatments|Peridaxon]] and [[Surgery#Internal_Organ_Repair|surgical organ repair]] (sans the [[#Appendix|appendix]]), though certain medicines target specific organs.

==Brain==
The most important organ of all, it's the one that keeps you conscious, let alone interact with anything at all! So long as your brain is alive, you are alive.
*'''Function:''' Allows you to control your character and keeps you alive. If it dies, you die.
*'''Symptoms of Damage:''' Running into airlocks, [[#Brain Trauma|brain traumas]], sharp head pain.
*'''Causes of Damage:''' Impedrezine, [[#Lungs|Lung failure,]] [[#Heart|heart failure]]
*'''Treatment:''' [[Guide to Chemistry#Standard_Treatments|Alkysine]], restoring bloodflow and supply via treating the [[#Heart|heart]], restoring blood oxygenization via treating the [[#Lungs|lungs]]. These are the primary cause of brain death. Keep the Heart and Lungs working.

==Eyes==
Lets you see and examine stuff.
*'''Function:''' Provides sight to the user.
*'''Symptoms of Damage:''' Blurry vision, no vision, sharp head pain, damaged/unresponsive pupils upon examination with a pen light.
*'''Causes of Damage:''' Welding without protection, phoron exposure, getting your eyes screwdriver'd or squished.
*'''Treatment:''' [[Guide to Chemistry#Advanced_Treatments|Oculine]]

==Heart==
The organ that keeps your blood flowing steady, allowing oxygen to distribute effectively. If this begins to fail, you'll start experiencing brain death. Keep it alive.
*'''Function:''' Keeps blood flowing, and regenerates lost blood.
*'''Symptoms of Damage:''' Hypoxia, blood loss, sharp chest pain, weak or high pulse rate upon examination with a stethoscope.
*'''Causes of Damage:''' Shock from injury, High pulse rate causing it to stop, lung injury, general organ attacks, certain brain traumas.
*'''Treatment:''' [[Guide to Chemistry#Specialist_Treatments|Adipemcina]], [[Surgery#Internal_Organ_Repair|organ Surgery]], CPR to restart the heart
* Adrenaline is very potent for restarting the heart but requires a flow of Oxygen in the blood. When applying Adrenaline to a crisis patient, be sure to check their respiration.

==Lungs==
Lets you breathe! What do you breathe? That depends, but hopefully it's oxygen. Damage increases the amount of pressure of oxygen needed to sustain optimal oxygenation.
*'''Function:''' Provides oxygen to the blood stream.
*'''Symptoms of Damage:''' Hypoxia, gasping, sharp chest pain, weak respiration upon examination with a stethoscope.
*'''Causes of Damage:''' Lack of oxygen, over/under pressurized atmosphere, phoron exposure, general organ damage.
*'''Treatment:''' [[Guide to Chemistry#Advanced_Treatments|Peridaxon]], [[Surgery#Internal_Organ_Repair|organ Surgery]], emergency reinflation via pen (In case of collapsed lung)

==Kidneys==
Filters your blood! <s>Actually it does nothing, it's incredibly niche.</s>
*'''Function:''' See above.
*'''Symptoms of Damage:''' Toxin damage if you <s>drink</s> '''inject''' coffee into your bloodstream. That's it. That's how niche this is.
*'''Causes of Damage:''' General organ attacks.
*'''Treatment:''' [[Guide to Chemistry#Advanced_Treatments|Peridaxon]]

==Liver==
The biggest line of defense against poisons.
*'''Function:''' Reduces intoxication, prevents other organs from taking damage as long as it's still working.
*'''Symptoms of Damage:''' Vomiting, other organs taking damage from general toxins.
*'''Causes of Damage:''' High level of toxin damage, heavy alcoholic consumption.
*'''Treatment:''' [[Guide to Chemistry#Standard_Treatments|Dylovene]] (at 10 liver damage and below)

==Appendix==
This serves no function other than to get sick and make you miserable.
*'''Function:''' See above.
*'''Symptoms of Damage:''' Pain, inflammation
*'''Causes of Damage:''' Appendicitis.
*'''Treatment:''' [[Surgery#Organ_Removal.2FTransplantation|Surgical removal]].

=Races=
Some races react a bit differently to medicine so it's important to become familiar with how some may fare. For the purpose of this section, Humans will be used as the base species for comparison. Subtypes will only mention differences in comparison to their parent species.

===[[Background summary#Humanity|Human]]===
*Normal brute damage.
*Normal burn damage.
*Blood Volume: 560
*Primitive Form: Monkey

===[[Skrell]]===
*Normal brute damage.
*Normal burn damage.
*Primitive Form: Neaera
*Less resistant to alcohol.
*Less stamina but faster running.
*Immune to slipping.

===[[Unathi]]===
*Slightly lower brute damage.
*Normal burn damage.
*Primitive Form: Stok
*All Alcohol (Ethanol) is toxic.
*Can drink Butanol as an Alcohol (Ethanol) substitute.
*Less stamina but faster running.
*Slower walking speed.

===[[Tajara]]===
*Slightly higher brute damage.
*Normal burn damage.
*Primitive Form: Farwa
*Less resistant to alcohol.
*Faster walking speed.
*Less stamina and running speed, but faster stamina recovery.
*Damage from falling is halved.

====Zhan-Khazan====
*Slightly higher brute damage.
*Normal burn damage.
*Slower walking speed.
*Slower running speed, but more stamina.
*Resistant to cold.
*Tolerant to alcohol.

====M'sai====
*Significantly higher brute damage.
*Normal burn damage.
*Faster walking speed.
*Faster running speed, but less stamina.

===[[Dionaea]]===
*Normal brute damage.
*Normal burn damage.
*Primitive Form: Diona Nymph
*Regenerates health and nutriment when in light or in radiation.
*Most reagents have little to no effect on a Diona.
**Plant-B-Gone severely poisons a Diona.
**[[Guide to Chemistry#Standard_Treatments|Hyronalin]] deals toxins.
**[[Guide to Chemistry#Specialist_Treatments|Arithrazine]] deals major toxins.
*Does not bleed.
*Immune to slipping.
*Immune to infections.
*Immune to decompression.
*Resistant to electrocution.
*Resistant to high temperatures.
*Breaks into nymphs upon death.
*Very slow movement speed.

===[[Vaurca]] Worker===
*Significantly lower brute damage.
*Significantly higher burn damage.
*Significantly higher toxin damage.
*Significantly lower Oxygen damage.
*Significantly lower Radiation damage.
*Primitive Form: V'krexi
*Breathes phoron.
*Possesses two hearts.
*Has an implant that stores phoron.
*Have other robotic implants.
*Has their own private Hivechat channel.
*Most surgeries require using the surgical drill instead of a scalpel.
*Can safely eat non-sterile K'ois.
*Normal food deals toxins.
*Immune to decompression.
*Immune to slipping.
*Resistant to alcohol.
*Slower walking speed.
*Slower running and less stamina recovery, but more stamina.

====Vaurca Warrior====
*Significantly lower brute damage.
*Slightly higher burn damage.
*Normal Oxygen damage.
*Significantly lower radiation damage.
*Normal walking speed.
*Faster running and more stamina.

=Loadout=
Improving the likelihood of a patient's survival depends not only on your medical knowledge but also on what's available to you, particularly medicines and equipment on your person. The following will go over an optimal loadout, though nothing is stopping you from experimenting; these are merely recommendations, and it may do well to inquire other experienced medical players as to what their loadout is.

==Common Equipment==
The equipment that most doctors have equipped:
*[[File:MedGlasses.png]] A medical HUD can evaluate someone's health from a glance, and even hide the health bar if their health is at 100%. Can also view patient records, allows you to set their physical status (useful for setting patients to SSD or deceased), and allows you to add comments to a patient's record.
*[[File:Medicalbelt.png]] A medical belt to store your medicines. Has seven slots and is obviously worn around the belt slot.
*[[File:Bottles.gif]] A bottle of Dylovene and Inaprovaline, as well as an empty bottle/beaker to mix the two into Tricordrazine in your belt. Additionally, if a [[Chemist]] is available, Bicaridine, KeloDerm/Dermaline, and Dexalin Plus are all important medicines to have.
*[[File:Syringes.png]] A syringe to extract said medicines. Holds 15u and draws/injects by 5u with each click. Can fit on your ear.
*[[File:Traumakit.png]][[File:Burnkit.png]] Advanced trauma and burn kits to help with brute and burn wounds respectively, along with disinfecting them. Typically found in the advanced kit that you spawn with.
*[[File:Healthanalyzer.png]] A health analyzer for a more in-depth analysis of someone's health. Gives precise numbers as to someone's brute, burn, toxin, and oxy damage, and can even tell if someone has genetic, radiation, or brain damage, though not how much. Will also inform the user if the patient has fractures or internal bleeding, but not their location.
*[[File:Labcoat.png]] A labcoat. Has storage space on the inside of the coat and allows you to use the suit storage slot.
*[[File:LGloves.png]] A pair of latex or nitrile gloves to prevent infection.
*[[File:Stasis_Bag_Folded.png]] A stasis bag to transport critical patients. These bags completely halt the progression of all damage, but they also deal genetic and oxy damage, meaning time is still of concern, and taking a patient out of the bag will crumple the bag up and make it useless.
*[[File:WWebbing.png]] Webbing/drop pouches to store more items. Webbing and drop pouches are mechanically the same, the only difference being the name and sprite. Attaches to the uniform, found in the accessories section of the loadout tab in character setup.
*[[File:Stethoscope.png]] A stethoscope to diagnose heart and lung injuries. Attaches to the uniform.
*[[File:Rollerbed.png]] A roller bed to transport patients safely without dragging. Simply control click the bed, then clickdrag a patient onto the bed and you can start running without having to hunt for pixels to pull it. Can fit on the suit storage slot of the Rescue RIG.

=Machinery=
Medical has quite a few bits and pieces of stationary equipment to help with the workflow, most of which are elaborated on here:

===[[File:Bscanner.gif]][[File:Bscanner_console.gif]]Body Scanner===
Pretty much a CT and MRI scanner shoved into one futuristic bed and console, and so much more! This is probably one of the most vital pieces of equipment for Medical as it can diagnose pretty much anything wrong with a patient. Some things it can do are, but not limited to:
*Provide information on all of the damage types.
*How much blood the patient has.
*Show what reagents are in the stomach/blood stream, and how much there is.
*Give a detailed analysis of each limb, including fractures, internal bleeding, the presence of implants, and if there are foreign bodies in the limb.
*Print condensed information to hand to a physician in the event the patient requires surgery. These should probably go into the filing cabinet behind reception.

===[[File:Sleeper.gif]][[File:Console.gif]]Sleeper===
Next are sleepers, beds that specialize in treating most side effects of trauma, but are otherwise an endless reservoir of some basic medicines. Some features of the sleeper are:
*Gives estimated readout of patient's health by means of number values and colored bar graphs.
*Allows the injection of:
**Dylovene
**Inaprovaline
**Soporific
**Perconol
**Dexalin
*Can conduct dialysis on a patient to remove anything that isn't blood (such as toxins, but medicines are included in this) from their blood stream.

===[[File:Cryo.gif]]Cryogenics===
A true marvel of Medical are its cryogenic tubes, allowing the use of certain medicines that can only be used at sub-zero temperatures, namely Cryoxadone and Clonexadone, which are both capable of healing lots of damage over time. If not for healing genetic damage, it should be noted that one unit of medicine taken from the tube's beaker is multiplied into ten units inside the patient! It can also halt bleeding (including internal) and halt the symptoms/damage of infection.

====[[File:Freezer.gif]]How to Set Up====
While a nice piece of equipment indeed, it requires some prep in order to use it to its full capacity, namely putting the beakers in and setting the gas cooler. Placing the beakers inside the cryo tube is as simple as taking the beakers on the table in hand and clicking on the tubes with them. As for the gas coolers, head to the freezer room, which is the room past the south-most door in the GTR. The coolers are on the north end of the room, just click on them and set the temperature between 10 and 80 Kelvin, though no lower or higher. Too low could draw a lot of unnecessary power, while setting it too high may slow down how fast the medicine inside the patient can work. Generally 63 Kelvin is the desired temperature.

=Goodies From Departments=
Medical has interactions with other departments besides just treating their injuries, surprisingly enough. Research can fabricate new tools and equipment, Cargo can order important medical stuff, and Security can hopefully restrain lunatics.

==Research==
Research can fabricate a number of nice tools for Medical, most of which will be described here:

===Surgical===
*[[File:Scalpmanager.png]]'''Incision Management System (IMS)''': Requires high tier research and diamonds, but this tool is invaluable to have. One click can create an incision, clamp bleeders, and retract the skin at the same time!
*[[File:Laserscalp.png]]'''Laser Scalpel''': Different versions depending on what's available to Research, but this basically works as a scalpel and hemostat combined when opening an incision.

===Chemistry===
*[[File:BluespaceBeaker.gif]]'''Bluespace Beaker''': Requires diamonds but is immensely useful for chemistry, holding 300u as opposed to its non-bluespace counterpart which can only hold 120u.
*[[File:Noreact.gif]]'''Cryostasis Beaker''': Reagents won't mix or react inside this beaker, but it can only hold 60u. Not very useful outside of easier grenade production.
*[[File:Combatinhaler.png]]'''Combat Inhaler''': An inhaler capable of dumping all of the contents of a cartridge into the patient's lungs. Use with care!
*[[File:Inhalercart.png]]'''Large Inhaler Cartridge''': 30u cartridge for inhalers. Double the capacity of the small cartridges that show up in chemistry.
*[[File:InhalerBS.png]]'''Bluespace Inhaler Cartridge''': 60u cartridge, bigger is better ''obviously.''

===Quality of Life===
*[[File:Powercell.png]]'''Super Capacity/Hyper Capacity Power Cells''': Pretty much just the RIG benefits from a bigger cell, but hey, leg actuators are fun to use!
*[[File:Medibot.gif]]'''Medibots''': Either helpful, annoying, or totally useless. Swiping your ID over it will unlock its maintenance panel, allowing you to alter a few options. One option that should be turned on is to report treatments over HUD, while one option that should be turned off is the medibot's speaker as leaving it on will just let it fill up your chat log with nonsense. Probably the most important feature is allowing it to draw from a beaker that you can insert, allowing you to make custom mixes. Unfortunately the bot cannot tell the difference between any of the damage types, only treating a patient once their overall health reaches a certain threshold, therefore take care to '''not load in medicines that the patient can easily overdose on'''.

===Upgrades===
*[[File:Freezer.gif]]'''Gas Cooler''': Upgrading the gas cooler will allow it to cool the gasses for cryo quicker.

==Cargo==
Cargo's a bit down the hall but here's some medical stuff:
*[[File:Stasis_Bag_Folded.png]]'''Stasis Bags''': Stasis bags are nice to have but there aren't many. In the event Medical is running low, it's always a good idea to order more.
*[[File:Scalpel.png]]'''Surgical Tools''': If you have to order this crate then something terrible has probably happened to the other tools.

{{Medbay}}
{{Gameplay Guides}}
[[Category:Guides]]
[[Category:Medbay]]

Notable Dionae

2021-01-08T11:46:33Z

Zundy: /* Sorrow and Apathy */

{{Navbox Lore}}
{{Navbox_Dionae_Lore}}

=Overview=
This is a page dedicated to notable Dioane across the Orion Spur. These are the most influential and important individuals whose actions impact the Dioane and its history at large.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=Biesel Choir=
These gestalts are relevant to the Biesel Choir.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
==Connected to the Blossoms Beyond==
'''Supposedly born on 16th August 2368'''

Connected to the Blossoms Beyond (Connected to the Blossoms Beyond reaching to the Eternal) is the High-Overseer of the Eternal faith, based within the Eternal Temple on Biesel.

Connected to the Blossoms Beyond comes from quite a rather distinct lineage - one considered to be the eldest of the entirety of the SASV Ophion. Supposedly capable of being traced back almost six or seven millennia, where seniority is a species concept that is respected by all, it was inevitable that Blossoms would rise and accomplish what they have.

Their formative years were spent gather support, and funds, for the creation of the Eternal Temple whilst on New Gibson - but after resettling themselves to Biesel. The six-decade-long construction efforts would eventually come to head in '''2431 CE''' and thus push the Argus to become the leader of the entire Dionae community of Biesel. Considered a loving, extremely respected and well-liked Gestalt, they are known to be extremely pleasant and hospitable, being well versed in cross-species communication and speaking all known common languages fluently.

==Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis==
'''Born 1st June 2290'''

Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis (Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis spread across the Void) was necessary for the formation of the Blood Buddy Organisation - one designed to increase the knowledge of Dionae across the Orion Spur through various different methods but most notably through the use of 'Blood Educating'.

Known to be incredibly intelligent, the Argus has managed to succeed in all avenues - even going to far as to travel across the entirety of the Orion Spur to garner additional samples of the Blood Market. Most notably, they have a close relationship with Zeng-Hu President Hou Hsiao-Li.

==Sorrow and Apathy==
'''Born on 2nd February 2444'''

A musician and producer. Allegedly a former Dominian Harvest Dionae, Sorrow is famous for their music which is described as new wave “nymph-wave”. Usually sung in rootsong, the music tends to be catchy and somewhat mournful with the lyrics covering themes of hopelessness and loss. A citizen of Biesel, a follower of the Eternal and a supporter of Dionae rights, Sorrow has been known to take a fatalistic, cynical view towards existence and the place of Dionae within the galaxy, famously quoted as saying “[the other species] will never understand or care to understand us. We’ll always be barely above animals in their eyes. Snowdrops in a midsummer garden.”
</div></div>
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=The Spirits of the Oasis=
These gestalts are relevant to the Spirits of the Oasis.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
==Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love==
'''Born in early '''Versakh 2451'''

Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love (referred to as Taarazi) are an infamous legend that has reached far and wide across the Moghesian wasteland. Considered one of the first Argus' discovered in the wasteland, but after a period of study in regards to the Dionae, High Priest Unzi declared the species to be sacred to the Sk'akh followers.
</div></div>
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=Labs of Xrim=
These gestalts are relevant to the Overgrown Labs of Xrim.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
===Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Cont.)===
'''Born 12th December 2301'''

Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities In Solemn Memory Of The Bygone Days Of A People Whom Have Learned Much Through The Pain Of Loss) spearheaded the formation of a sub-representative class of the Jargon Federation, comprised of only Dionae. They continue to garner support in hopes of increasing the responsibility given to the Dionae sub-representatives.

They are known for their compassion, and their unique perspective to the Jargon Federation, going as far to tour the fallen cities of Qerrbalak, as well as hosting various memorials for those lost to the tyrannical intelligence, Glorsh-Omega across the Orion Spur. They currently have dedicated their entity of interest to the planet of [[Ouerea]] and routinely conduct their duties from the surface.
</div></div>

Notable Dionae

2021-01-08T11:46:08Z

Zundy: /* Sorrow and Apathy */

{{Navbox Lore}}
{{Navbox_Dionae_Lore}}

=Overview=
This is a page dedicated to notable Dioane across the Orion Spur. These are the most influential and important individuals whose actions impact the Dioane and its history at large.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=Biesel Choir=
These gestalts are relevant to the Biesel Choir.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
==Connected to the Blossoms Beyond==
'''Supposedly born on 16th August 2368'''

Connected to the Blossoms Beyond (Connected to the Blossoms Beyond reaching to the Eternal) is the High-Overseer of the Eternal faith, based within the Eternal Temple on Biesel.

Connected to the Blossoms Beyond comes from quite a rather distinct lineage - one considered to be the eldest of the entirety of the SASV Ophion. Supposedly capable of being traced back almost six or seven millennia, where seniority is a species concept that is respected by all, it was inevitable that Blossoms would rise and accomplish what they have.

Their formative years were spent gather support, and funds, for the creation of the Eternal Temple whilst on New Gibson - but after resettling themselves to Biesel. The six-decade-long construction efforts would eventually come to head in '''2431 CE''' and thus push the Argus to become the leader of the entire Dionae community of Biesel. Considered a loving, extremely respected and well-liked Gestalt, they are known to be extremely pleasant and hospitable, being well versed in cross-species communication and speaking all known common languages fluently.

==Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis==
'''Born 1st June 2290'''

Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis (Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis spread across the Void) was necessary for the formation of the Blood Buddy Organisation - one designed to increase the knowledge of Dionae across the Orion Spur through various different methods but most notably through the use of 'Blood Educating'.

Known to be incredibly intelligent, the Argus has managed to succeed in all avenues - even going to far as to travel across the entirety of the Orion Spur to garner additional samples of the Blood Market. Most notably, they have a close relationship with Zeng-Hu President Hou Hsiao-Li.

==Sorrow and Apathy==
'''Born on 16th August 2444'''

A musician and producer. Allegedly a former Dominian Harvest Dionae, Sorrow is famous for their music which is described as new wave “nymph-wave”. Usually sung in rootsong, the music tends to be catchy and somewhat mournful with the lyrics covering themes of hopelessness and loss. A citizen of Biesel, a follower of the Eternal and a supporter of Dionae rights, Sorrow has been known to take a fatalistic, cynical view towards existence and the place of Dionae within the galaxy, famously quoted as saying “[the other species] will never understand or care to understand us. We’ll always be barely above animals in their eyes. Snowdrops in a midsummer garden.”
</div></div>
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=The Spirits of the Oasis=
These gestalts are relevant to the Spirits of the Oasis.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
==Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love==
'''Born in early '''Versakh 2451'''

Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love (referred to as Taarazi) are an infamous legend that has reached far and wide across the Moghesian wasteland. Considered one of the first Argus' discovered in the wasteland, but after a period of study in regards to the Dionae, High Priest Unzi declared the species to be sacred to the Sk'akh followers.
</div></div>
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=Labs of Xrim=
These gestalts are relevant to the Overgrown Labs of Xrim.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
===Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Cont.)===
'''Born 12th December 2301'''

Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities In Solemn Memory Of The Bygone Days Of A People Whom Have Learned Much Through The Pain Of Loss) spearheaded the formation of a sub-representative class of the Jargon Federation, comprised of only Dionae. They continue to garner support in hopes of increasing the responsibility given to the Dionae sub-representatives.

They are known for their compassion, and their unique perspective to the Jargon Federation, going as far to tour the fallen cities of Qerrbalak, as well as hosting various memorials for those lost to the tyrannical intelligence, Glorsh-Omega across the Orion Spur. They currently have dedicated their entity of interest to the planet of [[Ouerea]] and routinely conduct their duties from the surface.
</div></div>

Dionae Forms

2020-12-29T19:59:44Z

Zundy: /* Titan */

{{Navbox Lore}}
{{Navbox_Dionae_Lore}}
{{toc_right}}

=Forms=
The merging and separation of Nymphs take much time and energy to complete, sometimes days or even weeks on much larger structures. For smaller collections such as Cyclopes, it typically only takes an hour or so before they are ready to function. This is due to the Nymph bodies fusing together and creating a sturdy body that will be able to reasonably support itself and move, adapting it to the current environment. Before performing a change, Nymphs and Gestalts will gorge themselves on biomatter in preparation. Separation is only ever done in life-or-death emergencies or special situations such as growing a larger Gestalt as it can often be traumatic to Nymphs if done in a hurry, causing the knowledge gathered to be improperly stored in each individual or even lost without the correct precautions taken. With each change, the new form will always take up a new name to represent the new information and experiences collaborated.

'''Note that Nanotrasen only hires Cyclops forms to work on the Aurora. All crew characters must be one.'''

Dionae, being in its very nature a compound creature, comes in several known and theoretical forms with several characteristics:

==Nymph==
[[File:Nymph.png|thumb|alt=Nymph|The humble beginnings for all Dionae, the Nymph stage.]]
Nymphs are the base form of a Dionae, being a singular being not apart of a gestalt. Most will begin their life with an intelligence similar to that of a dog, although with enough blood and time their intelligence can be comparative to a human. Nymphs will generally seek other nymphs to form together into a Dionae gestalt.

==Cerberus==

Cerberus are Dionae gestalts who make up more than one nymph, but not enough to be considered a Cyclops form, comprising roughly two to four nymphs. It can be difficult for a Cerberus form to find work, as their general size can make it difficult for them to find the equipment they can use unless specialized specifically for them. The majority of long-term Cerberus forms can be found within the Jargon Federation.
[[File:Dionae.png|thumb|left|alt=Cyclops|Bipedal in form, the Cyclops are the most common gestalts to be seen across the Orion Spur.]]
==Cyclops==

The most common form of Dionae gestalts in the galaxy, cyclops-forms, sometimes referred to as “worker forms” are Dionae gestalts who are made up of roughly five to nine nymphs. Most Cyclopes resemble other intelligent species, usually having two legs and two arms, although this can differ based on the number of nymphs that are a part of the gestalt. Dionae Cyclopes tend to stand anywhere as low as three feet to as tall as eight feet, some even taller. Typically, the majority of the Cyclopes will stand at a rough five to six feet.

==Argus==

One of the rarer forms of Dionae, Argus are Dionae made from anywhere from ten nymphs, to a hundred. Due to the sheer size of most Argus forms, work can be extremely tough to find in most unskilled jobs and many find work within specialized jobs, largely with Research or even as Engineers, considering many of them would spend their time on the exterior side of the ships and stations, allowing for the
soaking up of radiation and light.

==Colossus==

Colossus forms are Dionae gestalts that are made up of as little as one-hundred-and-one nymphs to upwards of five-hundred-thousand. Colossus forms are split into two sub-categories, "Trireme", who are gestalts that move through space, and “Echions”, gestalts that tend to stay in one area/system. Most newly discovered gestalts in space are considered a Trireme Colossi. Due to the sheer size of a Colossus, it is incredibly rare if not impossible for one to find work or a purpose. As such most will break up into a myriad of new gestalts to see new and better opportunities.

==Cetus==
[[File:SkrellDionae.png|thumb|alt=Cetus|One of few Cetus' captured by Skrell technology when discovered over Kelo'Hen]]
Cetus forms are a mass of Dionae so immense, in the orders of a million nymphs, that it can be considered a stellar body. Currently, only two have been observed, those being the gestalt above Nralakk, the second being the recent Venter's Cetus. Unknown capabilities - theorized to be more intelligent than most other forms of intelligence, organic or synthetic. It is suspected that the original Dionae gestalt, where it may be, is at least this form if not the form below.

==Titan==

A theoretical form of the Dionae - a planet, or even star-sized Diona form consisting of maybe more nymphs than is currently known to exist, maybe the pinnacle of organic processing and thought. Uncharted intelligence. The Skrell has an order to destroy any Dionae structure that could reach or has reached, this size due to the inherent risk of intelligence singularity and other classified risks.

Dionae Culture

2020-12-08T16:16:36Z

Zundy: /* “Hshh’shee” or “Student Ranks” */

{{Navbox Lore}}
{{Navbox_Dionae_Lore}}
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==Culture==
Due to their highly nomadic nature, Dionae do not experience a universal culture outside of certain behaviours that appear to be biologically ingrained and somehow hard-wired into their genetics. Information on individual group cultures can be found in https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_History

===Naming===
Dionae naming conventions vary heavily based on gestalt, but have one consistency; They do not go by first name, last name, but instead use '''experiences, emotions, actions,''' or '''ideals''' as their source of identification. These experiences that define them can change just as the individual changes, and can be both literal and metaphorical. Some examples of where these might come from can be from routines in their lives, remembrances of mortals, a particular fascination in an emotion, a unique location where an important moment occurred, or even just a defining feature on their body. '''''As a player, it is up to you to decide what makes an experience, and you have a whole galaxy of cosmically ageless ideas to choose from. Be creative!'''''

====Experience Is What Matters====
The only time when one Diona is venerated above any other is when a more experienced and therefore more knowledgeable gestalt is present. This more experienced Diona is seen as more valuable due to their vaster stores of knowledge and therefore are protected over less experienced ones in a dangerous situation. A more experienced Diona will often take up the responsibility to educate a new one on their environment- including but not limited to the ways of local alien civilization. This is to simply get the newbie up to speed so they can be quicker on their way to learn more about their particular interests, whatever that may be.
More often than not, the older Diona is the more experienced, however this is not always true as a Diona gestalt may have spent its whole immortal life simply floating in a gas giant until it was scooped up into the fuel tank of a starship.

===Art===
While the species may make incredible artists in civilized space due to their longevity and capacity to learn, another form of visual art exists for Dionae that they practice as a recreational activity known simply as "Forma" and have two versions. Both utilize only their own bodies to make Gestalts in creative and practical ways alike. The first and most popular of the two is the Artem, or Art-Form. These are more for form than function and are used to display a Gestalt's creativity in strange and unique ways. Artem are typically observed being made in the void of space where they are free of the restrictions of gravity and require no rhyme nor reason to their design and exists purely as a hobby.

The second and perhaps most shocking of them is Vita, or Life-Form. Seen most often in some type of environment with gravity, there are two different forms: symbiotic which is done in the presence of other life forms, and competitive, preformed in areas where the concentration of Dionae are high. The symbiotic version is seen every day and is a form of passive mimicry to blend in with their extraterrestrial neighbors whereas the competitive version is a surprising display of violence. One is to increase their chance of survival in an alien landscape, the other used as a strange yet creative form of population control.

Competitive Vita is a theoretical evolution simulator where each Gestalt will merge, often as fantastical forms of creatures, which is then tested with the current environment they are in under different conditions. If present, they will then be tested against other non-sentient life forms before finally each other. Throughout the competition the losing Gestalts are either consumed or absorbed into their forms as additions, the final battle being the most dramatic display of a Gestalt's abilities. While most sapients would find this practice barbaric and contradictory to the species' desire to gain and preserve knowledge, the fallen and their knowledge simply become a part of the victorious.

===In Society===
Dionae are extremely complex, taking up many different types and forms. It is often said that Dionae have a hard time integrating into society, even though they are found in the majority of the nations throughout the galaxy. The largest clusters can be found within the Solarian Alliance, Jargon Federation, and the Republic of Biesel, however, there have been sights of ‘wild’ Dionae on the edges of civilized space. The ‘wild’ Dionae usually are integrated, but some have been hunted down for a unique resource located within them; Ambergris.

Their concept of money is vastly different from other races, considering Dionae only need a little radiation and warmth, both of which can be extracted from sunlight. Many of the gestalts are used often for space-related jobs, including exterior ship repairs and mining thanks to their immunity to the void, as long as there is light nearby. It is sometimes possible to find Dionae have become housemates with other species, paying rent, and doing various menial tasks in exchange for safe shelter.

Dionae have been known to form communes on the outskirts of the major cities, such as Mendell City and Phoenixport. The communes consist of various gestalts unifying to assist the surrounding environment, often beginning small restorative efforts in particular ecologically damaged areas. Many have said without these efforts, the vast majority of the woodlands on Biesel would have fallen years ago.

Details regarding Dionae in each specific nation can be found, here: https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_Relations

====Education====

Although Dionae can contain vast amounts of knowledge and possess extreme intelligence, the species still have to obtain the appropriate degrees for the occupation they wish to pursue in their chosen location of residence. This can be accomplished after being registered for citizenship. All newly-registered Dionae must complete and pass the courses required for their field if their degrees from past planetary systems is not recognized in the new location, or they lack one all together. Their education must be defended one year following the awarding of a degree, and then every five years there on out. However, that timer is reset due to the fact that after each merging, Dionae are required to defend their education along with their re-registration for citizenship due to the possibility of accumulation of new knowledge, and possible loss of information depending on the nature of the new merging.

===Relationships===
As sapient beings Dionae, from nymph to gestalt, are capable of forming platonic relationships with each other and other species. Nymphs and gestalts "merging" is the closest human analogue for a "romantic relationship" with Dionae. Due to the low complexity of nymph emotions and thought, initial merging into a [[Dionae_Forms#Cerberus|Cerberus]] tends to be carried out for practical purposes by all nymphs involved. Likewise, larger forms of Dionae such as [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]]’ and beyond might merge with a single nymph as a symbiotic form of a teacher/growth relationship with the nymph learning from its new gestalt partners and the gestalt itself using the new nymph for grown and biomass.

Due to the complexity of memory and thought, gestalts at [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] size and beyond are a lot more particular when merging with partners of a similar size or above. To merge is to become one mind and body in totality, therefore only those gestalts that truly love and respect each other would carry out the act. It is extremely rare for Dionae gestalts to split over disagreements and more likely for a “troublesome” or sick nymph to be ejected by the mass or a nymph to be temporarily split off to carry out a key task like safe exploration or to get help in a dangerous situation where the whole is in peril. In extreme cases the whole gestalt may break apart to save as many nymphs as possible. This is extremely traumatic, akin to losing yourself and is avoided. It’s a sad fact of life for gestalts from the Titan Prime cluster, most of which would have had to break apart multiple times throughout their lives.

When a gestalt grows beyond the size of a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]], it becomes difficult for these forms to find work within known space and therefore becomes necessary for the gestalt to split temporarily into smaller forms in order to carry out tasks throughout the day. These split forms are often referred to as a “split partner” or “part of me” by the gestalts involved. If pressed, a Dione might describe their split partner as an aspect of their whole which their partner represents; “they are the brave part of me”, “they are the smart part of me” or something similar. Splitting in this way is unpleasant for the gestalt but a necessary evil. Gestalts who split in this manner all suffer from [[Dionae#Psychology_and_Emotions|“splitting anxiety”]] and as such tend to work in close proximity to each other. Though analogous to a close romantic relationship, split Dionae are much closer than this in reality, essentially being aspects of a whole with each gestalt being a personality, memories and thoughts of a singular being, temporarily split apart. The larger the original gestalt the more split forms there could be, therefore it is possible for a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] gestalt to have many split partners.

===Blood Market===
The Blood Market, known as such colloquially, is a relatively private sector of the DNA Market. It operates out of a facility called ‘Bloodworks’ in District Ten, owned by the Blood Buddy Organization. The Market is mostly used by Dionae looking to enhance their skills in a certain field, or simply someone raising a nymph. The Bloodworks currently holds a monopoly over the lucrative trade, charging from 3000CR to 20,000CR for samples large enough for Dionae to learn from.

The ‘Blood Buddy Organization’ was founded by a Diona Argus, Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis, and is a ‘publically’ funded organization spearheaded by various Researchers from the Jargon Federation, Sol Alliance and Republic of Biesel. The company holds various fundraising events, where many skilful participants are noted to donate their blood in order to be sold on the market. The Blood Buddy Organization operates mostly within the Republic of Biesel, but are noted to sell their products to other nations. The largest donor to BBO is Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals, who recently gifted them the facility in District Eleven.

The Blood Market is not free of criminals, however, one particular group stands out more than the rest. The Blood Runners are notorious/renowned for their criminal undertakings, specifically their undercutting of the Blood Buddy Organization. The Blood Runners sell their samples from 1000CR to 10,000CR - leading the BBO to place reward for the arrest of the gang leader, Xia Lu-Qing. They have also been known to dabble in Corporate Espionage, using the Dionae’s ability to extract information from blood samples to their advantage.

==Military and Dionae Martialism==

As Dionae are generally pacifistic in their outlook they tend to operate in support positions within military units, acting as field medics, logistical support and any other function which does not involve direct aggression. That being said, under the teachings of the Eternal it is understood that there is a potential for violence to be unleashed by the powerful onto the powerless and thus it falls upon those who have undertaken martial studies to defend themselves and those unable to defend themselves. This is known as “Shh’sha’shu” or “The Divine Mandate to Defend All.” Dionae settlements that follow the principles of the Eternal are therefore aligned in their martial doctrines.

===Training===
''“Evil is just a lack of empathy and perspective. To understand is to be good.”''

In a universe largely unforgiving towards the Dionae it’s not uncommon for gestalts to study Dioane martial arts - “Shh’ush” or “Defence Mastery,” an art largely based on utilizing a Dionae’s great endurance and their opponent's momentum. The level of study a gestalt might undertake depends on a particular gestalts interest in martial studies overall with many dabbling in the art but not immersing themselves. Mastery of the student ranks or “Hshh’shee” allows a gestalt to ascend into full ranks or “Hshh” which serve as the highest scholarly ranks for martial studies and the military forces of the Dionae known collectively as “Guardians of Eternal” or “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” (The Guardians of the Divine Mandate to Defend All). Under the Eternal and generally for the majority of Dionae, combat or military defence isn’t a job but a calling and area of scholarly study. Other species might study Defence Mastery for it’s non-lethal takedowns however the art is especially suited for Dionae due to its reliance on their natural resilience and slower speed.

==== “Hshh’shee” or “Student Ranks”====
''“Waging war against good creatures is bad for the soul.”''

Initial training in Defence Mastery is focused on techniques to neutralise an opponent with minimal harm to both the user and their opponent. This is achieved by utilizing grapples, pins and stunning blows before retreating as well as methods of defensive retreat. Lethal force is not taught at this stage and is even strongly discouraged. Students at this level refer to themselves as “Shee” - Student or “One who is learning”. The teacher is referred to as whatever their rank may be. All teachers are those from the “Hshh” or “Full Ranks.” Advancement comes through mastery of the subjects being taught at each level and the completion of physical and written tests.
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Ranks from lowest - high:
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Shee’sho - ‘’’First Rank’’’ aka Student of the First Level
At this level, students are taught techniques based around defensive retreat from a threat.

Shee’cho - ‘’’Second Rank’’’ aka Student of the Second Level
At this level, students are taught key close combat neutralization techniques alongside advanced defensive retreat forms, including methods to assist others in retreating from threats. Most Dionae who don’t feel the call tend to stop at this level.

Shee’cha - ‘’’Third Rank’’’ aka Student of the Third Level
At this level, students are taught a wider array of close combat neutralization techniques as well as being taught to master defensive retreats.

Shee’che - ‘’’Fourth Rank’’’ aka Student of the Fourth Level
At this level, students are taught how to utilize the environment/objects to assist in close combat neutralization as well as in defensive retreat.
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====“Hshh” or “Full ranks”====
''“Holding hate in your heart is like grasping fire. It is you who is burnt in the end.”''

If a Dionae feels the call and has mastered the “Hshh’shee” or Student Ranks, they can opt to study the “Shh’sha’shu” or The Divine Mandate to Defend All and thus join the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” or Guardians of Eternal. This is a more intricate martial discipline and covers military history, doctrine, diplomacy, martial theology and all combat forms. Advancement through the ranks is achieved not just by mastery as with the student ranks but also with the approval of the teacher. As with any hierarchy, commands flow down the ranks to the Defenders.

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Ranks from lowest - high:
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Shh’ch - ‘’’Defender’’’ aka Defender of the Dionae
At this stage, a Dioane is taught lethal combat forms as well as the use of weaponry and vehicles. The “Shh’sha’shu” is also taught which includes military history, doctrine, diplomacy and martial theology. Escalation of force is also taught at this level with a focus on de-escalation. Police and security units would begin at this level.

Shh’ch’sha - ‘’’Sentinel’’’ aka Sentinel of the Heavens
At this stage, a Dioane is taught further combat forms and more advanced lessons from the “Shh’sha’shu.” They might begin to specialise in a particular martial method such as piloting, combat engineer or even logistics.

Uushh’ch - ‘’’Master’’’ aka Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae becomes an Overseer with mastery over combat and defence. A dioane at this level is familiar with all forms of the “Shh’sha’shu.”

Uushh’ch’sha - ‘’’Grand Master’’’ aka Grand Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae has not only mastered the “Shh’sha’shu” but also multiple specialties. It is possible due to the way in which the advancement system works within the “Shh’sha’shu” for every member of the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” to end up being a Grand Master barring the Marshall, though such a thing has never occurred historically.

Hss’shh’sha’shu - ‘’’Marshall’’’ aka Marshall of the Divine Mandate to Defend All
The highest rank in the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu.” At this stage a Dioane would hold superlative knowledge of the “Shh’sha’shu” and not just be an expert fighter and military leader but also a tremendous diplomat. Unlike all other ranks the Marshall is largely unique, with only one Marshall per independent Dionae nation. The current Marshalls are: ‘Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations’ of the Epsilon Expeditionary Force, ‘Metal Forms Made Ready‘ of the Narrows and ‘The First Lights Across the Void’ of the Biesel Choir.
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==Religion==
The entrance of Dionae into the Orion Spur, alongside the Skrell, has been nothing short of a mystery - allowing many theories to form of their creation, some have even gone as far as to create religions surrounding the species.

===The Eternal===
[[File:Eternal.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Icons.|From left to right: Symbol of the Eternal, symbol of Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, symbol of the Blood Eternal.]]

====Belief====
Followers of '''The Eternal''' believe that a primordial entity exists in Light, Energy and Essence - which the Dionae are the embodiment of.

They believe that the Dionae were made to ensure that all things born from the stars return to stars, eventually. Before they may return the Dionae must devour as much knowledge and biomass as they can, growing exponentially until they reach the mythical Titan form, becoming a star once more. Transcended into a star, the Dionae will emit light and energy until they die, at which point their essence will spread across the void to birth new Dionae. It is in this way that '''the eternal cycle''' is achieved. Scholars of the Eternal link this to the very real potential outcome of Titan form Dionae which theoretically could grow to such mass as to collapse into a star, thus giving off "light and energy" before eventually going supernova and expelling matter or "essence" across the cosmos.

Dionae followers from outside of faction space (deep space or unknown frontier worlds) tend to be forceful in their ‘encouragement’ of other Dionae to join. In times when they have been rejected, they have attacked and consumed in order for the expansion of The Eternal's will. The followers of The Eternal's will that make their home on Biesel however, are much more subdued in their activities. They tend to preach openly, trying to encourage Dionae and non-Dionae to join through words and good deeds, and never by force. Dionae police officers have been known to seek out and catch any extreme followers of the Eternal who attempt to forcefully convert or even “consume” others, the latter of which is, thankfully for everyone and the Dionae community, an extreme rarity in Biesel.
Positronic brains can not yet be absorbed and their memories passed into the “Light”. Eternal followers believe that a positronic entity is like any other, however their memories have to be “viewed” instead of absorbed. Many believe that it’s only a matter of time until a technology is developed to allow positronic entities to be absorbed like any other species.

====Burial and Practice====
All followers of the Eternal regardless of species believe that upon death their body should be preserved and merged with a growing Dionae gestalt as quickly as possible so they might one day return to the stars and continue the eternal cycle. For followers based within Biesel this means to be consumed by "Connected to the Blossoms Beyond", an Argus sized Dionae and leader of the Eternal within Biesel. If this is not possible then absorption by any Dionae gestalt is preferable. Outside of Biesel space, consumption by any large Dionae gestalt is acceptable.

In this way, followers of the Eternal also believe they are preserved within the gestalt as memories and emotions. As long as they are remembered and have been merged, followers of the Eternal believe they live on within the gestalt.

The Eternal faith’s symbols originate as audio frequencies or “songs”. Non Dionae members of the faith have, with guidance from Overseers, “translated” many symbols into a visual format for non-Dionae. Those thoughts, feelings and symbols that are not able to be translated are “sung” to the faithful, with non-Dionae learning to understand and even sing these “symbols'' themselves.
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Key "songs" of the Eternal:
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'''The Song of the Eternal'''

The song of the symbol representing the Eternal and the faith in general. It sounds like ‘’a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.’’

'''The Song of Energy'''

The song of the symbol representing energy, birth and action. It sounds like ‘’an intense melody building into an aggressive crescendo before abruptly ending.”

'''The Song of Essence'''

The song of the symbol representing essence and strength. It sounds like “a long, strong melody slowly rising to a high note before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Greeting'''

The song of the emotion associated with a pleasant greeting. It sounds like “a brief, colorful melody.”

'''The Song of Light'''

The song of the symbol representing light, wisdom and nourishment. It sounds like “a loud, operatic melody which seems to travel upwards then downwards in pitch before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Love'''

The song of the emotion associated with a both romantic and platonic love. It sounds like “a soft, angelic melody that seems to drift through the air before softly ending.”

'''The Song of Mourning'''

The song of the emotion associated with both mourning the dead and mourning general deep loss. It sounds like “a strong, keening melody which slowly drifts into silence.”

'''In game, these audio symbols can be “sung” using the chat command “!” and copying everything from “a” in the song’s sound description. For example, “!sings a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.”'''
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[[File:Eternal_symbols.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Symbols.|The translated symbols of the Eternal - Light, Energy and Essence.]]

====Leadership====
The de facto leadership of the faith is made up of Argus sized and larger gestalts which commune with one another to philosophise about the nature of reality and the faith within it. In the known galaxy the current “head” of the faith is ‘Connected to the Blossoms Beyond’, an Argus gestalt living within the Eternal Temple of Biesel, who communicates with the ancient gestalts in deep space.
Overseers make up the equivalent of the priesthood of the Eternal faith. Overseers work alongside the large Argus gestalts, primarily Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, to relay any important messages to the congregation and largely to act as mentors and trainers, passing on their knowledge to the followers of the Eternal. Most if not all Overseers are experts in other fields, often working in different roles whilst acting as an Overseer so that they might better meet with and pass on messages to the faithful. Most Overseers tend to be Dionae but it is possible for a committed non-Dionae to become one. By virtue of the audio symbology of the Eternal non-Dionae Overseers tend to be good singers. '''On station, an Overseer might work as, say, a medical doctor training other medical staff whilst also acting as an Overseer for the Eternal.'''

====Lexicon====
Key words and phrases of the Eternal which have made their way into Dionae culture on Biesel:

Void - Means nothingness. To be "returned to the void" is negative and implies a being or thing is no longer part of the eternal cycle. It has completely ceased to exist in any form. “The Void comes/calls” or just “The Void” is often said by Dioane and Eternal followers to mean “something bad is going to happen”, “what you are doing is going to have a dangerous outcome for you” or “I don’t like where this is going.”

Young Star - A Dionae who is on the path to becoming a star. This could mean through consumption of biomass but usually implies a scholar who is "absorbing" knowledge. A Dione scientist might be referred to as a "young star".

Eternal Cycle - The Eternal Cycle. Refers to the cycle of life and death.

====The Blood Eternal====
Followed largely by the Viscerabelt cluster and more unsavory, aggressive Dionae. The Blood Eternal is a more violent interpretation of the Eternal, represented by a blood red icon of the Eternal with a bloody maw.

Followers of the Blood Eternal are largely identical to their normal counterparts with one key difference: they prefer the consumption of flesh and blood to gain knowledge unlike regular followers of the Eternal who's pursuit of knowledge is largely based around standard scholarly learning.

Blood Eternal followers tend to decorate their temples with blood and gore as well as perform live sacrifices to the Eternal. An unsavory practice that tends to offend the sensibilities of other species hence their unofficial “banishment” to the belt.

Normal followers of the Eternal tend to view Blood Eternal followers as somewhat illogical due to the fact that they often seem to waste blood in their rituals. Blood Eternal followers believe they're taking the Eternals' teaching to their logical conclusion - to consume everything where possible, disregarding the normal Eternal followers’ criticisms out of hand as “a lack of understanding.” The vast majority of the Blood Eternal followers are still sensible with their consumption - hunting animals, purchasing or at the very worst, stealing blood and flesh.
The Blood Maw is the largest temple in the Viscerabelt and the known galaxy. Essentially a hollow asteroid coated in red, glistening Dioane biomass. The Blood Maw is in the process of constructing its own Dioane communication spire.
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Key "songs" of the Blood Eternal:
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'''The Song of Sacrifice'''

The song which represents sacrifice to the Eternal, death and feasting. It sounds like ‘’a bass boosted, howling dirge which ends in a bone rattling crescendo.”
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{{Navbox Lore}}
[[Category:Pages]]
[[Category:Lore]]
[[Category:Species]]
[[Category:Dionaea]]

Dionae Culture

2020-12-07T13:29:45Z

Zundy: added martial lore for Dioane

{{Navbox Lore}}
{{Navbox_Dionae_Lore}}

==Culture==
Due to their highly nomadic nature, Dionae do not experience a universal culture outside of certain behaviours that appear to be biologically ingrained and somehow hard-wired into their genetics. Information on individual group cultures can be found in https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_History

===Naming===
Dionae naming conventions vary heavily based on gestalt, but have one consistency; They do not go by first name, last name, but instead use '''experiences, emotions, actions,''' or '''ideals''' as their source of identification. These experiences that define them can change just as the individual changes, and can be both literal and metaphorical. Some examples of where these might come from can be from routines in their lives, remembrances of mortals, a particular fascination in an emotion, a unique location where an important moment occurred, or even just a defining feature on their body. '''''As a player, it is up to you to decide what makes an experience, and you have a whole galaxy of cosmically ageless ideas to choose from. Be creative!'''''

====Experience Is What Matters====
The only time when one Diona is venerated above any other is when a more experienced and therefore more knowledgeable gestalt is present. This more experienced Diona is seen as more valuable due to their vaster stores of knowledge and therefore are protected over less experienced ones in a dangerous situation. A more experienced Diona will often take up the responsibility to educate a new one on their environment- including but not limited to the ways of local alien civilization. This is to simply get the newbie up to speed so they can be quicker on their way to learn more about their particular interests, whatever that may be.
More often than not, the older Diona is the more experienced, however this is not always true as a Diona gestalt may have spent its whole immortal life simply floating in a gas giant until it was scooped up into the fuel tank of a starship.

===Art===
While the species may make incredible artists in civilized space due to their longevity and capacity to learn, another form of visual art exists for Dionae that they practice as a recreational activity known simply as "Forma" and have two versions. Both utilize only their own bodies to make Gestalts in creative and practical ways alike. The first and most popular of the two is the Artem, or Art-Form. These are more for form than function and are used to display a Gestalt's creativity in strange and unique ways. Artem are typically observed being made in the void of space where they are free of the restrictions of gravity and require no rhyme nor reason to their design and exists purely as a hobby.

The second and perhaps most shocking of them is Vita, or Life-Form. Seen most often in some type of environment with gravity, there are two different forms: symbiotic which is done in the presence of other life forms, and competitive, preformed in areas where the concentration of Dionae are high. The symbiotic version is seen every day and is a form of passive mimicry to blend in with their extraterrestrial neighbors whereas the competitive version is a surprising display of violence. One is to increase their chance of survival in an alien landscape, the other used as a strange yet creative form of population control.

Competitive Vita is a theoretical evolution simulator where each Gestalt will merge, often as fantastical forms of creatures, which is then tested with the current environment they are in under different conditions. If present, they will then be tested against other non-sentient life forms before finally each other. Throughout the competition the losing Gestalts are either consumed or absorbed into their forms as additions, the final battle being the most dramatic display of a Gestalt's abilities. While most sapients would find this practice barbaric and contradictory to the species' desire to gain and preserve knowledge, the fallen and their knowledge simply become a part of the victorious.

===In Society===
Dionae are extremely complex, taking up many different types and forms. It is often said that Dionae have a hard time integrating into society, even though they are found in the majority of the nations throughout the galaxy. The largest clusters can be found within the Solarian Alliance, Jargon Federation, and the Republic of Biesel, however, there have been sights of ‘wild’ Dionae on the edges of civilized space. The ‘wild’ Dionae usually are integrated, but some have been hunted down for a unique resource located within them; Ambergris.

Their concept of money is vastly different from other races, considering Dionae only need a little radiation and warmth, both of which can be extracted from sunlight. Many of the gestalts are used often for space-related jobs, including exterior ship repairs and mining thanks to their immunity to the void, as long as there is light nearby. It is sometimes possible to find Dionae have become housemates with other species, paying rent, and doing various menial tasks in exchange for safe shelter.

Dionae have been known to form communes on the outskirts of the major cities, such as Mendell City and Phoenixport. The communes consist of various gestalts unifying to assist the surrounding environment, often beginning small restorative efforts in particular ecologically damaged areas. Many have said without these efforts, the vast majority of the woodlands on Biesel would have fallen years ago.

Details regarding Dionae in each specific nation can be found, here: https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_Relations

====Education====

Although Dionae can contain vast amounts of knowledge and possess extreme intelligence, the species still have to obtain the appropriate degrees for the occupation they wish to pursue in their chosen location of residence. This can be accomplished after being registered for citizenship. All newly-registered Dionae must complete and pass the courses required for their field if their degrees from past planetary systems is not recognized in the new location, or they lack one all together. Their education must be defended one year following the awarding of a degree, and then every five years there on out. However, that timer is reset due to the fact that after each merging, Dionae are required to defend their education along with their re-registration for citizenship due to the possibility of accumulation of new knowledge, and possible loss of information depending on the nature of the new merging.

===Relationships===
As sapient beings Dionae, from nymph to gestalt, are capable of forming platonic relationships with each other and other species. Nymphs and gestalts "merging" is the closest human analogue for a "romantic relationship" with Dionae. Due to the low complexity of nymph emotions and thought, initial merging into a [[Dionae_Forms#Cerberus|Cerberus]] tends to be carried out for practical purposes by all nymphs involved. Likewise, larger forms of Dionae such as [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]]’ and beyond might merge with a single nymph as a symbiotic form of a teacher/growth relationship with the nymph learning from its new gestalt partners and the gestalt itself using the new nymph for grown and biomass.

Due to the complexity of memory and thought, gestalts at [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] size and beyond are a lot more particular when merging with partners of a similar size or above. To merge is to become one mind and body in totality, therefore only those gestalts that truly love and respect each other would carry out the act. It is extremely rare for Dionae gestalts to split over disagreements and more likely for a “troublesome” or sick nymph to be ejected by the mass or a nymph to be temporarily split off to carry out a key task like safe exploration or to get help in a dangerous situation where the whole is in peril. In extreme cases the whole gestalt may break apart to save as many nymphs as possible. This is extremely traumatic, akin to losing yourself and is avoided. It’s a sad fact of life for gestalts from the Titan Prime cluster, most of which would have had to break apart multiple times throughout their lives.

When a gestalt grows beyond the size of a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]], it becomes difficult for these forms to find work within known space and therefore becomes necessary for the gestalt to split temporarily into smaller forms in order to carry out tasks throughout the day. These split forms are often referred to as a “split partner” or “part of me” by the gestalts involved. If pressed, a Dione might describe their split partner as an aspect of their whole which their partner represents; “they are the brave part of me”, “they are the smart part of me” or something similar. Splitting in this way is unpleasant for the gestalt but a necessary evil. Gestalts who split in this manner all suffer from [[Dionae#Psychology_and_Emotions|“splitting anxiety”]] and as such tend to work in close proximity to each other. Though analogous to a close romantic relationship, split Dionae are much closer than this in reality, essentially being aspects of a whole with each gestalt being a personality, memories and thoughts of a singular being, temporarily split apart. The larger the original gestalt the more split forms there could be, therefore it is possible for a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] gestalt to have many split partners.

===Blood Market===
The Blood Market, known as such colloquially, is a relatively private sector of the DNA Market. It operates out of a facility called ‘Bloodworks’ in District Ten, owned by the Blood Buddy Organization. The Market is mostly used by Dionae looking to enhance their skills in a certain field, or simply someone raising a nymph. The Bloodworks currently holds a monopoly over the lucrative trade, charging from 3000CR to 20,000CR for samples large enough for Dionae to learn from.

The ‘Blood Buddy Organization’ was founded by a Diona Argus, Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis, and is a ‘publically’ funded organization spearheaded by various Researchers from the Jargon Federation, Sol Alliance and Republic of Biesel. The company holds various fundraising events, where many skilful participants are noted to donate their blood in order to be sold on the market. The Blood Buddy Organization operates mostly within the Republic of Biesel, but are noted to sell their products to other nations. The largest donor to BBO is Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals, who recently gifted them the facility in District Eleven.

The Blood Market is not free of criminals, however, one particular group stands out more than the rest. The Blood Runners are notorious/renowned for their criminal undertakings, specifically their undercutting of the Blood Buddy Organization. The Blood Runners sell their samples from 1000CR to 10,000CR - leading the BBO to place reward for the arrest of the gang leader, Xia Lu-Qing. They have also been known to dabble in Corporate Espionage, using the Dionae’s ability to extract information from blood samples to their advantage.

==Military and Dioane Martialism==

As Dionae are generally pacifistic in their outlook they tend to operate in support positions within military units, acting as field medics, logistical support and any other function which does not involve direct aggression. That being said, under the teachings of the Eternal it is understood that there is a potential for violence to be unleashed by the powerful onto the powerless and thus it falls upon those who have undertaken martial studies to defend themselves and those unable to defend themselves. This is known as “Shh’sha’shu” or “The Divine Mandate to Defend All.” Dionae settlements that follow the principles of the Eternal are therefore aligned in their martial doctrines.

===Training===
''“Evil is just a lack of empathy and perspective. To understand is to be good.”''

In a universe largely unforgiving towards the Dionae it’s not uncommon for gestalts to study Dioane martial arts - “Shh’ush” or “Defence Mastery,” an art largely based on utilizing a Dionae’s great endurance and their opponent's momentum. The level of study a gestalt might undertake depends on a particular gestalts interest in martial studies overall with many dabbling in the art but not immersing themselves. Mastery of the student ranks or “Hshh’shee” allows a gestalt to ascend into full ranks or “Hshh” which serve as the highest scholarly ranks for martial studies and the military forces of the Dionae known collectively as “Guardians of Eternal” or “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” (The Guardians of the Divine Mandate to Defend All). Under the Eternal and generally for the majority of Dionae, combat or military defence isn’t a job but a calling and area of scholarly study. Other species might study Defence Mastery for it’s non-lethal takedowns however the art is especially suited for Dionae due to its reliance on their natural resilience and slower speed.

==== “Hshh’shee” or “Student Ranks”====
''“Waging war against good creatures is bad for the soul.”''

Initial training in Defence Mastery is focused on techniques to neutralise an opponent with minimal harm to both the user and their opponent. This is achieved by utilizing grapples, pins and stunning blows before retreating as well as methods of defensive retreat. Lethal force is not taught at this stage and is even strongly discouraged. Students at this level refer to themselves as “Shee” - Student or “One who is learning”. The teacher is referred to as whatever their rank may be. All teachers are those from the “Hshh” or “Full Ranks.” Advancement comes through mastery of the subjects being taught at each level and the completion of physical and written tests.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Ranks from lowest - high:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
Shee’sho - ‘’’First Rank’’’ aka Student of the First Level
At this level, students are taught techniques based around defensive retreat from a threat.

Shee’cho - ‘’’Second Rank’’’ aka Student of the Second Level
At this level, students are taught key close combat neutralization techniques alongside advanced defensive retreat forms, including methods to assist others in retreating from threats. Most Dionae who don’t feel the call tend to stop at this level.

Shee’sho - ‘’’Third Rank’’’ aka Student of the Third Level
At this level, students are taught a wider array of close combat neutralization techniques as well as being taught to master defensive retreats.

Shee’sho - ‘’’Fourth Rank’’’ aka Student of the Fourth Level
At this level, students are taught how to utilize the environment/objects to assist in close combat neutralization as well as in defensive retreat.
</div></div>
====“Hshh” or “Full ranks”====
''“Holding hate in your heart is like grasping fire. It is you who is burnt in the end.”''

If a Dionae feels the call and has mastered the “Hshh’shee” or Student Ranks, they can opt to study the “Shh’sha’shu” or The Divine Mandate to Defend All and thus join the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” or Guardians of Eternal. This is a more intricate martial discipline and covers military history, doctrine, diplomacy, martial theology and all combat forms. Advancement through the ranks is achieved not just by mastery as with the student ranks but also with the approval of the teacher. As with any hierarchy, commands flow down the ranks to the Defenders.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Ranks from lowest - high:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">

Shh’ch - ‘’’Defender’’’ aka Defender of the Dionae
At this stage, a Dioane is taught lethal combat forms as well as the use of weaponry and vehicles. The “Shh’sha’shu” is also taught which includes military history, doctrine, diplomacy and martial theology. Escalation of force is also taught at this level with a focus on de-escalation. Police and security units would begin at this level.

Shh’ch’sha - ‘’’Sentinel’’’ aka Sentinel of the Heavens
At this stage, a Dioane is taught further combat forms and more advanced lessons from the “Shh’sha’shu.” They might begin to specialise in a particular martial method such as piloting, combat engineer or even logistics.

Uushh’ch - ‘’’Master’’’ aka Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae becomes an Overseer with mastery over combat and defence. A dioane at this level is familiar with all forms of the “Shh’sha’shu.”

Uushh’ch’sha - ‘’’Grand Master’’’ aka Grand Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae has not only mastered the “Shh’sha’shu” but also multiple specialties. It is possible due to the way in which the advancement system works within the “Shh’sha’shu” for every member of the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” to end up being a Grand Master barring the Marshall, though such a thing has never occurred historically.

Hss’shh’sha’shu - ‘’’Marshall’’’ aka Marshall of the Divine Mandate to Defend All
The highest rank in the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu.” At this stage a Dioane would hold superlative knowledge of the “Shh’sha’shu” and not just be an expert fighter and military leader but also a tremendous diplomat. Unlike all other ranks the Marshall is largely unique, with only one Marshall per independent Dionae nation. The current Marshalls are: ‘Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations’ of the Epsilon Expeditionary Force, ‘Metal Forms Made Ready‘ of the Narrows and ‘The First Lights Across the Void’ of the Biesel Choir.
</div></div>

==Religion==
The entrance of Dionae into the Orion Spur, alongside the Skrell, has been nothing short of a mystery - allowing many theories to form of their creation, some have even gone as far as to create religions surrounding the species.

===The Eternal===
[[File:Eternal.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Icons.|From left to right: Symbol of the Eternal, symbol of Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, symbol of the Blood Eternal.]]

====Belief====
Followers of '''The Eternal''' believe that a primordial entity exists in Light, Energy and Essence - which the Dionae are the embodiment of.

They believe that the Dionae were made to ensure that all things born from the stars return to stars, eventually. Before they may return the Dionae must devour as much knowledge and biomass as they can, growing exponentially until they reach the mythical Titan form, becoming a star once more. Transcended into a star, the Dionae will emit light and energy until they die, at which point their essence will spread across the void to birth new Dionae. It is in this way that '''the eternal cycle''' is achieved. Scholars of the Eternal link this to the very real potential outcome of Titan form Dionae which theoretically could grow to such mass as to collapse into a star, thus giving off "light and energy" before eventually going supernova and expelling matter or "essence" across the cosmos.

Dionae followers from outside of faction space (deep space or unknown frontier worlds) tend to be forceful in their ‘encouragement’ of other Dionae to join. In times when they have been rejected, they have attacked and consumed in order for the expansion of The Eternal's will. The followers of The Eternal's will that make their home on Biesel however, are much more subdued in their activities. They tend to preach openly, trying to encourage Dionae and non-Dionae to join through words and good deeds, and never by force. Dionae police officers have been known to seek out and catch any extreme followers of the Eternal who attempt to forcefully convert or even “consume” others, the latter of which is, thankfully for everyone and the Dionae community, an extreme rarity in Biesel.
Positronic brains can not yet be absorbed and their memories passed into the “Light”. Eternal followers believe that a positronic entity is like any other, however their memories have to be “viewed” instead of absorbed. Many believe that it’s only a matter of time until a technology is developed to allow positronic entities to be absorbed like any other species.

====Burial and Practice====
All followers of the Eternal regardless of species believe that upon death their body should be preserved and merged with a growing Dionae gestalt as quickly as possible so they might one day return to the stars and continue the eternal cycle. For followers based within Biesel this means to be consumed by "Connected to the Blossoms Beyond", an Argus sized Dionae and leader of the Eternal within Biesel. If this is not possible then absorption by any Dionae gestalt is preferable. Outside of Biesel space, consumption by any large Dionae gestalt is acceptable.

In this way, followers of the Eternal also believe they are preserved within the gestalt as memories and emotions. As long as they are remembered and have been merged, followers of the Eternal believe they live on within the gestalt.

The Eternal faith’s symbols originate as audio frequencies or “songs”. Non Dionae members of the faith have, with guidance from Overseers, “translated” many symbols into a visual format for non-Dionae. Those thoughts, feelings and symbols that are not able to be translated are “sung” to the faithful, with non-Dionae learning to understand and even sing these “symbols'' themselves.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">

'''The Song of the Eternal'''

The song of the symbol representing the Eternal and the faith in general. It sounds like ‘’a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.’’

'''The Song of Energy'''

The song of the symbol representing energy, birth and action. It sounds like ‘’an intense melody building into an aggressive crescendo before abruptly ending.”

'''The Song of Essence'''

The song of the symbol representing essence and strength. It sounds like “a long, strong melody slowly rising to a high note before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Greeting'''

The song of the emotion associated with a pleasant greeting. It sounds like “a brief, colorful melody.”

'''The Song of Light'''

The song of the symbol representing light, wisdom and nourishment. It sounds like “a loud, operatic melody which seems to travel upwards then downwards in pitch before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Love'''

The song of the emotion associated with a both romantic and platonic love. It sounds like “a soft, angelic melody that seems to drift through the air before softly ending.”

'''The Song of Mourning'''

The song of the emotion associated with both mourning the dead and mourning general deep loss. It sounds like “a strong, keening melody which slowly drifts into silence.”

'''In game, these audio symbols can be “sung” using the chat command “!” and copying everything from “a” in the song’s sound description. For example, “!sings a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.”'''
</div></div>
[[File:Eternal_symbols.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Symbols.|The translated symbols of the Eternal - Light, Energy and Essence.]]

====Leadership====
The de facto leadership of the faith is made up of Argus sized and larger gestalts which commune with one another to philosophise about the nature of reality and the faith within it. In the known galaxy the current “head” of the faith is ‘Connected to the Blossoms Beyond’, an Argus gestalt living within the Eternal Temple of Biesel, who communicates with the ancient gestalts in deep space.
Overseers make up the equivalent of the priesthood of the Eternal faith. Overseers work alongside the large Argus gestalts, primarily Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, to relay any important messages to the congregation and largely to act as mentors and trainers, passing on their knowledge to the followers of the Eternal. Most if not all Overseers are experts in other fields, often working in different roles whilst acting as an Overseer so that they might better meet with and pass on messages to the faithful. Most Overseers tend to be Dionae but it is possible for a committed non-Dionae to become one. By virtue of the audio symbology of the Eternal non-Dionae Overseers tend to be good singers. '''On station, an Overseer might work as, say, a medical doctor training other medical staff whilst also acting as an Overseer for the Eternal.'''

====Lexicon====
Key words and phrases of the Eternal which have made their way into Dionae culture on Biesel:

Void - Means nothingness. To be "returned to the void" is negative and implies a being or thing is no longer part of the eternal cycle. It has completely ceased to exist in any form. “The Void comes/calls” or just “The Void” is often said by Dioane and Eternal followers to mean “something bad is going to happen”, “what you are doing is going to have a dangerous outcome for you” or “I don’t like where this is going.”

Young Star - A Dionae who is on the path to becoming a star. This could mean through consumption of biomass but usually implies a scholar who is "absorbing" knowledge. A Dione scientist might be referred to as a "young star".

Eternal Cycle - The Eternal Cycle. Refers to the cycle of life and death.

====The Blood Eternal====
Followed largely by the Viscerabelt cluster and more unsavory, aggressive Dionae. The Blood Eternal is a more violent interpretation of the Eternal, represented by a blood red icon of the Eternal with a bloody maw.

Followers of the Blood Eternal are largely identical to their normal counterparts with one key difference: they prefer the consumption of flesh and blood to gain knowledge unlike regular followers of the Eternal who's pursuit of knowledge is largely based around standard scholarly learning.

Blood Eternal followers tend to decorate their temples with blood and gore as well as perform live sacrifices to the Eternal. An unsavory practice that tends to offend the sensibilities of other species hence their unofficial “banishment” to the belt.

Normal followers of the Eternal tend to view Blood Eternal followers as somewhat illogical due to the fact that they often seem to waste blood in their rituals. Blood Eternal followers believe they're taking the Eternals' teaching to their logical conclusion - to consume everything where possible, disregarding the normal Eternal followers’ criticisms out of hand as “a lack of understanding.” The vast majority of the Blood Eternal followers are still sensible with their consumption - hunting animals, purchasing or at the very worst, stealing blood and flesh.
The Blood Maw is the largest temple in the Viscerabelt and the known galaxy. Essentially a hollow asteroid coated in red, glistening Dioane biomass. The Blood Maw is in the process of constructing its own Dioane communication spire.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Blood Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
'''The Song of Sacrifice'''

The song which represents sacrifice to the Eternal, death and feasting. It sounds like ‘’a bass boosted, howling dirge which ends in a bone rattling crescendo.”
</div></div>

{{Navbox Lore}}
[[Category:Pages]]
[[Category:Lore]]
[[Category:Species]]
[[Category:Dionaea]]

User:Zundy/Sandbox

2020-11-29T19:03:20Z

Zundy: /* Overview */

=Overview=

As Dionae are generally pacifistic in their outlook they tend to operate in support positions within military units, acting as field medics, logistical support and any other function which does not involve direct aggression. That being said, under the teachings of the Eternal it is understood that there is a potential for violence to be unleashed by the powerful onto the powerless and thus it falls upon those who have undertaken martial studies to defend themselves and those unable to defend themselves. This is known as “Shh’sha’shu” or “The Divine Mandate to Defend All.” Dionae settlements that follow the principles of the Eternal are therefore aligned in their martial doctrines, these include but are not limited to Epsilon Ursae Minoris, The Narrows and the Biesel Choir.

==Training==
''“Evil is just a lack of empathy and perspective. To understand is to be good.”''

In a universe largely unforgiving towards the Dionae it’s not uncommon for gestalts to study Dioane martial arts - “Shh’ush” or “Defence Mastery,” an art largely based on utilizing a Dionae’s great endurance and their opponent's momentum. The level of study a gestalt might undertake depends on a particular gestalts interest in martial studies overall with many dabbling in the art but not immersing themselves. Mastery of the student ranks or “Hshh’shee” allows a gestalt to ascend into full ranks or “Hshh” which serve as the highest scholarly ranks for martial studies and the military forces of the Dionae known collectively as “Guardians of Eternal” or “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” (The Guardians of the Divine Mandate to Defend All). Under the Eternal and generally for the majority of Dionae, combat or military defence isn’t a job but a calling and area of scholarly study. Other species might study Defence Mastery for it’s non-lethal takedowns however the art is especially suited for Dionae due to its reliance on their natural resilience and slower speed.

== “Hshh’shee” or “Student Ranks”==
''“Waging war against good creatures is bad for the soul.”''

Initial training in Defence Mastery is focused on techniques to neutralise an opponent with minimal harm to both the user and their opponent. This is achieved by utilizing grapples, pins and stunning blows before retreating as well as methods of defensive retreat. Lethal force is not taught at this stage and is even strongly discouraged. Students at this level refer to themselves as “Shee” - Student or “One who is learning”. The teacher is referred to as whatever their rank may be. All teachers are those from the “Hshh” or “Full Ranks.” Advancement comes through mastery of the subjects being taught at each level and the completion of physical and written tests.

===Shee’sho - First Rank aka Student of the First Level===

At this level, students are taught techniques based around defensive retreat from a threat.

===Shee’cho - Second Rank aka Student of the Second Level===

At this level, students are taught key close combat neutralization techniques alongside advanced defensive retreat forms, including methods to assist others in retreating from threats. Most Dionae who don’t feel the call tend to stop at this level.

===Shee’sho - Third Rank aka Student of the Third Level===

At this level, students are taught a wider array of close combat neutralization techniques as well as being taught to master defensive retreats.

===Shee’sho - Fourth Rank aka Student of the Fourth Level===

At this level, students are taught how to utilize the environment/objects to assist in close combat neutralization as well as in defensive retreat.

==“Hshh” or “Full ranks”==
''“Holding hate in your heart is like grasping fire. It is you who is burnt in the end.”''

If a Dionae feels the call and has mastered the “Hshh’shee” or Student Ranks, they can opt to study the “Shh’sha’shu” or The Divine Mandate to Defend All and thus join the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” or Guardians of Eternal. This is a more intricate martial discipline and covers military history, doctrine, diplomacy, martial theology and all combat forms. Advancement through the ranks is achieved not just by mastery as with the student ranks but also with the approval of the teacher. As with any hierarchy, commands flow down the ranks to the Defenders.

===Shh’ch - Defender aka Defender of the Dionae===

At this stage, a Dioane is taught lethal combat forms as well as the use of weaponry and vehicles. The “Shh’sha’shu” is also taught which includes military history, doctrine, diplomacy and martial theology. Escalation of force is also taught at this level with a focus on de-escalation. Police and security units would begin at this level.

===Shh’ch’sha - Sentinel aka Sentinel of the Heavens===

At this stage, a Dioane is taught further combat forms and more advanced lessons from the “Shh’sha’shu.” They might begin to specialise in a particular martial method such as piloting, combat engineer or even logistics.

===Uushh’ch - Master aka Master of the Defence of Heaven===

At this stage, a Dionae becomes an Overseer with mastery over combat and defence. A dioane at this level is familiar with all forms of the “Shh’sha’shu.”

===Uushh’ch’sha - Grand Master aka Grand Master of the Defence of Heaven===

At this stage, a Dionae has not only mastered the “Shh’sha’shu” but also multiple specialties. It is possible due to the way in which the advancement system works within the “Shh’sha’shu” for every member of the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” to end up being a Grand Master barring the Marshall, though such a thing has never occurred historically.

===Hss’shh’sha’shu - Marshall aka Marshall of the Divine Mandate to Defend All===

The highest rank in the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu.” At this stage a Dioane would hold superlative knowledge of the “Shh’sha’shu” and not just be an expert fighter and military leader but also a tremendous diplomat. Unlike all other ranks the Marshall is largely unique, with only one Marshall per independent Dionae nation. The current Marshalls are: ‘Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations’ of the Epsilon Expeditionary Force, ‘Metal Forms Made Ready‘ of the Narrows and ‘The First Lights Across the Void’ of the Biesel Choir.

User:Zundy/Sandbox

2020-11-29T16:44:16Z

Zundy:

=Overview=

As Dionae are generally pacifistic in their outlook they tend to operate in support positions within military units, acting as field medics, logistical support and any other function which does not involve direct aggression. That being said, under the teachings of the Eternal it is understood that there is a potential for violence to be unleashed by the powerful onto the powerless and thus it falls upon those who have undertaken martial studies to defend themselves and those unable to defend themselves. This is known as “Shh’sha’shu” or “The Divine Mandate to Defend All.” Dionae settlements that follow the principles of the Eternal are therefore aligned in their martial doctrines.

==Training==
''“Evil is just a lack of empathy and perspective. To understand is to be good.”''

In a universe largely unforgiving towards the Dionae it’s not uncommon for gestalts to study Dioane martial arts - “Shh’ush” or “Defence Mastery,” an art largely based on utilizing a Dionae’s great endurance and their opponent's momentum. The level of study a gestalt might undertake depends on a particular gestalts interest in martial studies overall with many dabbling in the art but not immersing themselves. Mastery of the student ranks or “Hshh’shee” allows a gestalt to ascend into full ranks or “Hshh” which serve as the highest scholarly ranks for martial studies and the military forces of the Dionae known collectively as “Guardians of Eternal” or “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” (The Guardians of the Divine Mandate to Defend All). Under the Eternal and generally for the majority of Dionae, combat or military defence isn’t a job but a calling and area of scholarly study. Other species might study Defence Mastery for it’s non-lethal takedowns however the art is especially suited for Dionae due to its reliance on their natural resilience and slower speed.

== “Hshh’shee” or “Student Ranks”==
''“Waging war against good creatures is bad for the soul.”''

Initial training in Defence Mastery is focused on techniques to neutralise an opponent with minimal harm to both the user and their opponent. This is achieved by utilizing grapples, pins and stunning blows before retreating as well as methods of defensive retreat. Lethal force is not taught at this stage and is even strongly discouraged. Students at this level refer to themselves as “Shee” - Student or “One who is learning”. The teacher is referred to as whatever their rank may be. All teachers are those from the “Hshh” or “Full Ranks.” Advancement comes through mastery of the subjects being taught at each level and the completion of physical and written tests.

===Shee’sho - First Rank aka Student of the First Level===

At this level, students are taught techniques based around defensive retreat from a threat.

===Shee’cho - Second Rank aka Student of the Second Level===

At this level, students are taught key close combat neutralization techniques alongside advanced defensive retreat forms, including methods to assist others in retreating from threats. Most Dionae who don’t feel the call tend to stop at this level.

===Shee’sho - Third Rank aka Student of the Third Level===

At this level, students are taught a wider array of close combat neutralization techniques as well as being taught to master defensive retreats.

===Shee’sho - Fourth Rank aka Student of the Fourth Level===

At this level, students are taught how to utilize the environment/objects to assist in close combat neutralization as well as in defensive retreat.

==“Hshh” or “Full ranks”==
''“Holding hate in your heart is like grasping fire. It is you who is burnt in the end.”''

If a Dionae feels the call and has mastered the “Hshh’shee” or Student Ranks, they can opt to study the “Shh’sha’shu” or The Divine Mandate to Defend All and thus join the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” or Guardians of Eternal. This is a more intricate martial discipline and covers military history, doctrine, diplomacy, martial theology and all combat forms. Advancement through the ranks is achieved not just by mastery as with the student ranks but also with the approval of the teacher. As with any hierarchy, commands flow down the ranks to the Defenders.

===Shh’ch - Defender aka Defender of the Dionae===

At this stage, a Dioane is taught lethal combat forms as well as the use of weaponry and vehicles. The “Shh’sha’shu” is also taught which includes military history, doctrine, diplomacy and martial theology. Escalation of force is also taught at this level with a focus on de-escalation. Police and security units would begin at this level.

===Shh’ch’sha - Sentinel aka Sentinel of the Heavens===

At this stage, a Dioane is taught further combat forms and more advanced lessons from the “Shh’sha’shu.” They might begin to specialise in a particular martial method such as piloting, combat engineer or even logistics.

===Uushh’ch - Master aka Master of the Defence of Heaven===

At this stage, a Dionae becomes an Overseer with mastery over combat and defence. A dioane at this level is familiar with all forms of the “Shh’sha’shu.”

===Uushh’ch’sha - Grand Master aka Grand Master of the Defence of Heaven===

At this stage, a Dionae has not only mastered the “Shh’sha’shu” but also multiple specialties. It is possible due to the way in which the advancement system works within the “Shh’sha’shu” for every member of the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” to end up being a Grand Master barring the Marshall, though such a thing has never occurred historically.

===Hss’shh’sha’shu - Marshall aka Marshall of the Divine Mandate to Defend All===

The highest rank in the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu.” At this stage a Dioane would hold superlative knowledge of the “Shh’sha’shu” and not just be an expert fighter and military leader but also a tremendous diplomat. Unlike all other ranks the Marshall is largely unique, with only one Marshall per independent Dionae nation. The current Marshalls are: ‘Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations’ of the Epsilon Expeditionary Force, ‘Metal Forms Made Ready‘ of the Narrows and ‘The First Lights Across the Void’ of the Biesel Choir.

User:Zundy/Sandbox

2020-11-29T16:43:36Z

Zundy:

=Overview=

As Dionae are generally pacifistic in their outlook they tend to operate in support positions within military units, acting as field medics, logistical support and any other function which does not involve direct aggression. That being said, under the teachings of the Eternal it is understood that there is a potential for violence to be unleashed by the powerful onto the powerless and thus it falls upon those who have undertaken martial studies to defend themselves and those unable to defend themselves. This is known as “Shh’sha’shu” or “The Divine Mandate to Defend All.” Dionae settlements that follow the principles of the Eternal are therefore aligned in their martial doctrines.

==Training==
''“Evil is just a lack of empathy and perspective. To understand is to be good.”''

In a universe largely unforgiving towards the Dionae it’s not uncommon for gestalts to study Dioane martial arts - “Shh’ush” or “Defence Mastery,” an art largely based on utilizing a Dionae’s great endurance and their opponent's momentum. The level of study a gestalt might undertake depends on a particular gestalts interest in martial studies overall with many dabbling in the art but not immersing themselves. Mastery of the student ranks or “Hshh’shee” allows a gestalt to ascend into full ranks or “Hshh” which serve as the highest scholarly ranks for martial studies and the military forces of the Dionae known collectively as “Guardians of Eternal” or “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” (The Guardians of the Divine Mandate to Defend All). Under the Eternal and generally for the majority of Dionae, combat or military defence isn’t a job but a calling and area of scholarly study. Other species might study Defence Mastery for it’s non-lethal takedowns however the art is especially suited for Dionae due to its reliance on their natural resilience and slower speed.

== “Hshh’shee” or “Student Ranks”==
''“Waging war against good creatures is bad for the soul.”''

Initial training in Defence Mastery is focused on techniques to neutralise an opponent with minimal harm to both the user and their opponent. This is achieved by utilizing grapples, pins and stunning blows before retreating as well as methods of defensive retreat. Lethal force is not taught at this stage and is even strongly discouraged. Students at this level refer to themselves as “Shee” - Student or “One who is learning”. The teacher is referred to as whatever their rank may be. All teachers are those from the “Hshh” or “Full Ranks.” Advancement comes through mastery of the subjects being taught at each level and the completion of physical and written tests.

===Shee’sho - '''First Rank''' aka Student of the First Level===

At this level, students are taught techniques based around defensive retreat from a threat.

===Shee’cho - '''Second Rank''' aka Student of the Second Level===

At this level, students are taught key close combat neutralization techniques alongside advanced defensive retreat forms, including methods to assist others in retreating from threats. Most Dionae who don’t feel the call tend to stop at this level.

===Shee’sho - '''Third Rank''' aka Student of the Third Level===

At this level, students are taught a wider array of close combat neutralization techniques as well as being taught to master defensive retreats.

===Shee’sho - '''Fourth Rank''' aka Student of the Fourth Level===

At this level, students are taught how to utilize the environment/objects to assist in close combat neutralization as well as in defensive retreat.

==“Hshh” or “Full ranks”==
''“Holding hate in your heart is like grasping fire. It is you who is burnt in the end.”''

If a Dionae feels the call and has mastered the “Hshh’shee” or Student Ranks, they can opt to study the “Shh’sha’shu” or The Divine Mandate to Defend All and thus join the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” or Guardians of Eternal. This is a more intricate martial discipline and covers military history, doctrine, diplomacy, martial theology and all combat forms. Advancement through the ranks is achieved not just by mastery as with the student ranks but also with the approval of the teacher. As with any hierarchy, commands flow down the ranks to the Defenders.

===Shh’ch - '''Defender''' aka Defender of the Dionae===

At this stage, a Dioane is taught lethal combat forms as well as the use of weaponry and vehicles. The “Shh’sha’shu” is also taught which includes military history, doctrine, diplomacy and martial theology. Escalation of force is also taught at this level with a focus on de-escalation. Police and security units would begin at this level.

===Shh’ch’sha - '''Sentinel''' aka Sentinel of the Heavens===

At this stage, a Dioane is taught further combat forms and more advanced lessons from the “Shh’sha’shu.” They might begin to specialise in a particular martial method such as piloting, combat engineer or even logistics.

===Uushh’ch - '''Master''' aka Master of the Defence of Heaven===

At this stage, a Dionae becomes an Overseer with mastery over combat and defence. A dioane at this level is familiar with all forms of the “Shh’sha’shu.”

===Uushh’ch’sha - '''Grand Master''' aka Grand Master of the Defence of Heaven===

At this stage, a Dionae has not only mastered the “Shh’sha’shu” but also multiple specialties. It is possible due to the way in which the advancement system works within the “Shh’sha’shu” for every member of the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” to end up being a Grand Master barring the Marshall, though such a thing has never occurred historically.

===Hss’shh’sha’shu - '''Marshall''' aka Marshall of the Divine Mandate to Defend All===

The highest rank in the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu.” At this stage a Dioane would hold superlative knowledge of the “Shh’sha’shu” and not just be an expert fighter and military leader but also a tremendous diplomat. Unlike all other ranks the Marshall is largely unique, with only one Marshall per independent Dionae nation. The current Marshalls are: ‘Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations’ of the Epsilon Expeditionary Force, ‘Metal Forms Made Ready‘ of the Narrows and ‘The First Lights Across the Void’ of the Biesel Choir.

User:Zundy/Sandbox

2020-11-29T16:42:30Z

Zundy: /* “Hshh” or “Full ranks” */

=Overview=

As Dionae are generally pacifistic in their outlook they tend to operate in support positions within military units, acting as field medics, logistical support and any other function which does not involve direct aggression. That being said, under the teachings of the Eternal it is understood that there is a potential for violence to be unleashed by the powerful onto the powerless and thus it falls upon those who have undertaken martial studies to defend themselves and those unable to defend themselves. This is known as “Shh’sha’shu” or “The Divine Mandate to Defend All.” Dionae settlements that follow the principles of the Eternal are therefore aligned in their martial doctrines.

==Training==
''“Evil is just a lack of empathy and perspective. To understand is to be good.”''

In a universe largely unforgiving towards the Dionae it’s not uncommon for gestalts to study Dioane martial arts - “Shh’ush” or “Defence Mastery,” an art largely based on utilizing a Dionae’s great endurance and their opponent's momentum. The level of study a gestalt might undertake depends on a particular gestalts interest in martial studies overall with many dabbling in the art but not immersing themselves. Mastery of the student ranks or “Hshh’shee” allows a gestalt to ascend into full ranks or “Hshh” which serve as the highest scholarly ranks for martial studies and the military forces of the Dionae known collectively as “Guardians of Eternal” or “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” (The Guardians of the Divine Mandate to Defend All). Under the Eternal and generally for the majority of Dionae, combat or military defence isn’t a job but a calling and area of scholarly study. Other species might study Defence Mastery for it’s non-lethal takedowns however the art is especially suited for Dionae due to its reliance on their natural resilience and slower speed.

== “Hshh’shee” or “Student Ranks”==
''“Waging war against good creatures is bad for the soul.”''

Initial training in Defence Mastery is focused on techniques to neutralise an opponent with minimal harm to both the user and their opponent. This is achieved by utilizing grapples, pins and stunning blows before retreating as well as methods of defensive retreat. Lethal force is not taught at this stage and is even strongly discouraged. Students at this level refer to themselves as “Shee” - Student or “One who is learning”. The teacher is referred to as whatever their rank may be. All teachers are those from the “Hshh” or “Full Ranks.” Advancement comes through mastery of the subjects being taught at each level and the completion of physical and written tests.

Shee’sho - '''First Rank''' aka Student of the First Level

At this level, students are taught techniques based around defensive retreat from a threat.

Shee’cho - '''Second Rank''' aka Student of the Second Level

At this level, students are taught key close combat neutralization techniques alongside advanced defensive retreat forms, including methods to assist others in retreating from threats. Most Dionae who don’t feel the call tend to stop at this level.

Shee’sho - '''Third Rank''' aka Student of the Third Level

At this level, students are taught a wider array of close combat neutralization techniques as well as being taught to master defensive retreats.

Shee’sho - '''Fourth Rank''' aka Student of the Fourth Level

At this level, students are taught how to utilize the environment/objects to assist in close combat neutralization as well as in defensive retreat.

==“Hshh” or “Full ranks”==
''“Holding hate in your heart is like grasping fire. It is you who is burnt in the end.”''

If a Dionae feels the call and has mastered the “Hshh’shee” or Student Ranks, they can opt to study the “Shh’sha’shu” or The Divine Mandate to Defend All and thus join the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” or Guardians of Eternal. This is a more intricate martial discipline and covers military history, doctrine, diplomacy, martial theology and all combat forms. Advancement through the ranks is achieved not just by mastery as with the student ranks but also with the approval of the teacher. As with any hierarchy, commands flow down the ranks to the Defenders.

Shh’ch - '''Defender''' aka Defender of the Dionae

At this stage, a Dioane is taught lethal combat forms as well as the use of weaponry and vehicles. The “Shh’sha’shu” is also taught which includes military history, doctrine, diplomacy and martial theology. Escalation of force is also taught at this level with a focus on de-escalation. Police and security units would begin at this level.

Shh’ch’sha - '''Sentinel''' aka Sentinel of the Heavens

At this stage, a Dioane is taught further combat forms and more advanced lessons from the “Shh’sha’shu.” They might begin to specialise in a particular martial method such as piloting, combat engineer or even logistics.

Uushh’ch - '''Master''' aka Master of the Defence of Heaven

At this stage, a Dionae becomes an Overseer with mastery over combat and defence. A dioane at this level is familiar with all forms of the “Shh’sha’shu.”

Uushh’ch’sha - '''Grand Master''' aka Grand Master of the Defence of Heaven

At this stage, a Dionae has not only mastered the “Shh’sha’shu” but also multiple specialties. It is possible due to the way in which the advancement system works within the “Shh’sha’shu” for every member of the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” to end up being a Grand Master barring the Marshall, though such a thing has never occurred historically.

Hss’shh’sha’shu - '''Marshall''' aka Marshall of the Divine Mandate to Defend All

The highest rank in the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu.” At this stage a Dioane would hold superlative knowledge of the “Shh’sha’shu” and not just be an expert fighter and military leader but also a tremendous diplomat. Unlike all other ranks the Marshall is largely unique, with only one Marshall per independent Dionae nation. The current Marshalls are: ‘Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations’ of the Epsilon Expeditionary Force, ‘Metal Forms Made Ready‘ of the Narrows and ‘The First Lights Across the Void’ of the Biesel Choir.

User:Zundy/Sandbox

2020-11-29T16:42:19Z

Zundy: /* “Hshh’shee” or “Student Ranks” */

=Overview=

As Dionae are generally pacifistic in their outlook they tend to operate in support positions within military units, acting as field medics, logistical support and any other function which does not involve direct aggression. That being said, under the teachings of the Eternal it is understood that there is a potential for violence to be unleashed by the powerful onto the powerless and thus it falls upon those who have undertaken martial studies to defend themselves and those unable to defend themselves. This is known as “Shh’sha’shu” or “The Divine Mandate to Defend All.” Dionae settlements that follow the principles of the Eternal are therefore aligned in their martial doctrines.

==Training==
''“Evil is just a lack of empathy and perspective. To understand is to be good.”''

In a universe largely unforgiving towards the Dionae it’s not uncommon for gestalts to study Dioane martial arts - “Shh’ush” or “Defence Mastery,” an art largely based on utilizing a Dionae’s great endurance and their opponent's momentum. The level of study a gestalt might undertake depends on a particular gestalts interest in martial studies overall with many dabbling in the art but not immersing themselves. Mastery of the student ranks or “Hshh’shee” allows a gestalt to ascend into full ranks or “Hshh” which serve as the highest scholarly ranks for martial studies and the military forces of the Dionae known collectively as “Guardians of Eternal” or “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” (The Guardians of the Divine Mandate to Defend All). Under the Eternal and generally for the majority of Dionae, combat or military defence isn’t a job but a calling and area of scholarly study. Other species might study Defence Mastery for it’s non-lethal takedowns however the art is especially suited for Dionae due to its reliance on their natural resilience and slower speed.

== “Hshh’shee” or “Student Ranks”==
''“Waging war against good creatures is bad for the soul.”''

Initial training in Defence Mastery is focused on techniques to neutralise an opponent with minimal harm to both the user and their opponent. This is achieved by utilizing grapples, pins and stunning blows before retreating as well as methods of defensive retreat. Lethal force is not taught at this stage and is even strongly discouraged. Students at this level refer to themselves as “Shee” - Student or “One who is learning”. The teacher is referred to as whatever their rank may be. All teachers are those from the “Hshh” or “Full Ranks.” Advancement comes through mastery of the subjects being taught at each level and the completion of physical and written tests.

Shee’sho - '''First Rank''' aka Student of the First Level

At this level, students are taught techniques based around defensive retreat from a threat.

Shee’cho - '''Second Rank''' aka Student of the Second Level

At this level, students are taught key close combat neutralization techniques alongside advanced defensive retreat forms, including methods to assist others in retreating from threats. Most Dionae who don’t feel the call tend to stop at this level.

Shee’sho - '''Third Rank''' aka Student of the Third Level

At this level, students are taught a wider array of close combat neutralization techniques as well as being taught to master defensive retreats.

Shee’sho - '''Fourth Rank''' aka Student of the Fourth Level

At this level, students are taught how to utilize the environment/objects to assist in close combat neutralization as well as in defensive retreat.

==“Hshh” or “Full ranks”==
''“Holding hate in your heart is like grasping fire. It is you who is burnt in the end.”''

If a Dionae feels the call and has mastered the “Hshh’shee” or Student Ranks, they can opt to study the “Shh’sha’shu” or The Divine Mandate to Defend All and thus join the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” or Guardians of Eternal. This is a more intricate martial discipline and covers military history, doctrine, diplomacy, martial theology and all combat forms. Advancement through the ranks is achieved not just by mastery as with the student ranks but also with the approval of the teacher. As with any hierarchy, commands flow down the ranks to the Defenders.

Shh’ch - '''Defender''' aka Defender of the Dionae
At this stage, a Dioane is taught lethal combat forms as well as the use of weaponry and vehicles. The “Shh’sha’shu” is also taught which includes military history, doctrine, diplomacy and martial theology. Escalation of force is also taught at this level with a focus on de-escalation. Police and security units would begin at this level.

Shh’ch’sha - '''Sentinel''' aka Sentinel of the Heavens
At this stage, a Dioane is taught further combat forms and more advanced lessons from the “Shh’sha’shu.” They might begin to specialise in a particular martial method such as piloting, combat engineer or even logistics.

Uushh’ch - '''Master''' aka Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae becomes an Overseer with mastery over combat and defence. A dioane at this level is familiar with all forms of the “Shh’sha’shu.”

Uushh’ch’sha - '''Grand Master''' aka Grand Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae has not only mastered the “Shh’sha’shu” but also multiple specialties. It is possible due to the way in which the advancement system works within the “Shh’sha’shu” for every member of the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” to end up being a Grand Master barring the Marshall, though such a thing has never occurred historically.

Hss’shh’sha’shu - '''Marshall''' aka Marshall of the Divine Mandate to Defend All
The highest rank in the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu.” At this stage a Dioane would hold superlative knowledge of the “Shh’sha’shu” and not just be an expert fighter and military leader but also a tremendous diplomat. Unlike all other ranks the Marshall is largely unique, with only one Marshall per independent Dionae nation. The current Marshalls are: ‘Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations’ of the Epsilon Expeditionary Force, ‘Metal Forms Made Ready‘ of the Narrows and ‘The First Lights Across the Void’ of the Biesel Choir.

User:Zundy/Sandbox

2020-11-29T16:20:52Z

Zundy:

=Overview=

As Dionae are generally pacifistic in their outlook they tend to operate in support positions within military units, acting as field medics, logistical support and any other function which does not involve direct aggression. That being said, under the teachings of the Eternal it is understood that there is a potential for violence to be unleashed by the powerful onto the powerless and thus it falls upon those who have undertaken martial studies to defend themselves and those unable to defend themselves. This is known as “Shh’sha’shu” or “The Divine Mandate to Defend All.” Dionae settlements that follow the principles of the Eternal are therefore aligned in their martial doctrines.

==Training==
''“Evil is just a lack of empathy and perspective. To understand is to be good.”''

In a universe largely unforgiving towards the Dionae it’s not uncommon for gestalts to study Dioane martial arts - “Shh’ush” or “Defence Mastery,” an art largely based on utilizing a Dionae’s great endurance and their opponent's momentum. The level of study a gestalt might undertake depends on a particular gestalts interest in martial studies overall with many dabbling in the art but not immersing themselves. Mastery of the student ranks or “Hshh’shee” allows a gestalt to ascend into full ranks or “Hshh” which serve as the highest scholarly ranks for martial studies and the military forces of the Dionae known collectively as “Guardians of Eternal” or “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” (The Guardians of the Divine Mandate to Defend All). Under the Eternal and generally for the majority of Dionae, combat or military defence isn’t a job but a calling and area of scholarly study. Other species might study Defence Mastery for it’s non-lethal takedowns however the art is especially suited for Dionae due to its reliance on their natural resilience and slower speed.

== “Hshh’shee” or “Student Ranks”==
''“Waging war against good creatures is bad for the soul.”''

Initial training in Defence Mastery is focused on techniques to neutralise an opponent with minimal harm to both the user and their opponent. This is achieved by utilizing grapples, pins and stunning blows before retreating as well as methods of defensive retreat. Lethal force is not taught at this stage and is even strongly discouraged. Students at this level refer to themselves as “Shee” - Student or “One who is learning”. The teacher is referred to as whatever their rank may be. All teachers are those from the “Hshh” or “Full Ranks.” Advancement comes through mastery of the subjects being taught at each level and the completion of physical and written tests.

Shee’sho - '''First Rank''' aka Student of the First Level
At this level, students are taught techniques based around defensive retreat from a threat.

Shee’cho - '''Second Rank''' aka Student of the Second Level
At this level, students are taught key close combat neutralization techniques alongside advanced defensive retreat forms, including methods to assist others in retreating from threats. Most Dionae who don’t feel the call tend to stop at this level.

Shee’sho - '''Third Rank''' aka Student of the Third Level
At this level, students are taught a wider array of close combat neutralization techniques as well as being taught to master defensive retreats.

Shee’sho - '''Fourth Rank''' aka Student of the Fourth Level
At this level, students are taught how to utilize the environment/objects to assist in close combat neutralization as well as in defensive retreat.

==“Hshh” or “Full ranks”==
''“Holding hate in your heart is like grasping fire. It is you who is burnt in the end.”''

If a Dionae feels the call and has mastered the “Hshh’shee” or Student Ranks, they can opt to study the “Shh’sha’shu” or The Divine Mandate to Defend All and thus join the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” or Guardians of Eternal. This is a more intricate martial discipline and covers military history, doctrine, diplomacy, martial theology and all combat forms. Advancement through the ranks is achieved not just by mastery as with the student ranks but also with the approval of the teacher. As with any hierarchy, commands flow down the ranks to the Defenders.

Shh’ch - '''Defender''' aka Defender of the Dionae
At this stage, a Dioane is taught lethal combat forms as well as the use of weaponry and vehicles. The “Shh’sha’shu” is also taught which includes military history, doctrine, diplomacy and martial theology. Escalation of force is also taught at this level with a focus on de-escalation. Police and security units would begin at this level.

Shh’ch’sha - '''Sentinel''' aka Sentinel of the Heavens
At this stage, a Dioane is taught further combat forms and more advanced lessons from the “Shh’sha’shu.” They might begin to specialise in a particular martial method such as piloting, combat engineer or even logistics.

Uushh’ch - '''Master''' aka Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae becomes an Overseer with mastery over combat and defence. A dioane at this level is familiar with all forms of the “Shh’sha’shu.”

Uushh’ch’sha - '''Grand Master''' aka Grand Master of the Defence of Heaven
At this stage, a Dionae has not only mastered the “Shh’sha’shu” but also multiple specialties. It is possible due to the way in which the advancement system works within the “Shh’sha’shu” for every member of the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu” to end up being a Grand Master barring the Marshall, though such a thing has never occurred historically.

Hss’shh’sha’shu - '''Marshall''' aka Marshall of the Divine Mandate to Defend All
The highest rank in the “Chaa’shh’sha’shu.” At this stage a Dioane would hold superlative knowledge of the “Shh’sha’shu” and not just be an expert fighter and military leader but also a tremendous diplomat. Unlike all other ranks the Marshall is largely unique, with only one Marshall per independent Dionae nation. The current Marshalls are: ‘Amplified by Probing Discoveries of Unknown Investigations’ of the Epsilon Expeditionary Force, ‘Metal Forms Made Ready‘ of the Narrows and ‘The First Lights Across the Void’ of the Biesel Choir.

Notable Dionae

2020-11-29T15:44:02Z

Zundy:

{{Navbox Lore}}
{{Navbox_Dionae_Lore}}

=Overview=
This is a page dedicated to notable Dioane across the Orion Spur. These are the most influential and important individuals whose actions impact the Dioane and its history at large.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=Biesel Choir=
These gestalts are relevant to the Biesel Choir.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
==Connected to the Blossoms Beyond==
'''Supposedly born on 16th August 2368'''

Connected to the Blossoms Beyond (Connected to the Blossoms Beyond reaching to the Eternal) is the High-Overseer of the Eternal faith, based within the Eternal Temple on Biesel.

Connected to the Blossoms Beyond comes from quite a rather distinct lineage - one considered to be the eldest of the entirety of the SASV Ophion. Supposedly capable of being traced back almost six or seven millennia, where seniority is a species concept that is respected by all, it was inevitable that Blossoms would rise and accomplish what they have.

Their formative years were spent gather support, and funds, for the creation of the Eternal Temple whilst on New Gibson - but after resettling themselves to Biesel. The six-decade-long construction efforts would eventually come to head in '''2431 CE''' and thus push the Argus to become the leader of the entire Dionae community of Biesel. Considered a loving, extremely respected and well-liked Gestalt, they are known to be extremely pleasant and hospitable, being well versed in cross-species communication and speaking all known common languages fluently.

==Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis==
'''Born 1st June 2290'''

Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis (Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis spread across the Void) was necessary for the formation of the Blood Buddy Organisation - one designed to increase the knowledge of Dionae across the Orion Spur through various different methods but most notably through the use of 'Blood Educating'.

Known to be incredibly intelligent, the Argus has managed to succeed in all avenues - even going to far as to travel across the entirety of the Orion Spur to garner additional samples of the Blood Market. Most notably, they have a close relationship with Zeng-Hu President Hou Hsiao-Li.

==Sorrow and Apathy==

A musician and producer. Allegedly a former Dominian Harvest Dionae, Sorrow is famous for their music which is described as new wave “nymph-wave”. Usually sung in rootsong, the music tends to be catchy and somewhat mournful with the lyrics covering themes of hopelessness and loss. A citizen of Biesel, a follower of the Eternal and a supporter of Dionae rights, Sorrow has been known to take a fatalistic, cynical view towards existence and the place of Dionae within the galaxy, famously quoted as saying “[the other species] will never understand or care to understand us. We’ll always be barely above animals in their eyes. Snowdrops in a midsummer garden.”
</div></div>
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=The Spirits of the Oasis=
These gestalts are relevant to the Spirits of the Oasis.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
==Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love==
'''Born in early '''Versakh 2451'''

Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love (referred to as Taarazi) are an infamous legend that has reached far and wide across the Moghesian wasteland. Considered one of the first Argus' discovered in the wasteland, but after a period of study in regards to the Dionae, High Priest Unzi declared the species to be sacred to the Sk'akh followers.
</div></div>
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=Labs of Xrim=
These gestalts are relevant to the Overgrown Labs of Xrim.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
===Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Cont.)===
'''Born 12th December 2301'''

Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities In Solemn Memory Of The Bygone Days Of A People Whom Have Learned Much Through The Pain Of Loss) spearheaded the formation of a sub-representative class of the Jargon Federation, comprised of only Dionae. They continue to garner support in hopes of increasing the responsibility given to the Dionae sub-representatives.

They are known for their compassion, and their unique perspective to the Jargon Federation, going as far to tour the fallen cities of Qerrbalak, as well as hosting various memorials for those lost to the tyrannical intelligence, Glorsh-Omega across the Orion Spur. They currently have dedicated their entity of interest to the planet of [[Ouerea]] and routinely conduct their duties from the surface.
</div></div>

Notable Dionae

2020-11-29T15:43:55Z

Zundy:

{{Navbox Lore}}
{{Navbox_Dionae_Lore}}

=Overview=
This is a page dedicated to notable Dioane across the Orion Spur. These are the most influential and important individuals whose actions impact the Dioane and its history at large.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=Biesel Choir=
These gestalts are relevant to the Biesel Choir.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
==Connected to the Blossoms Beyond==
'''Supposedly born on 16th August 2368'''

Connected to the Blossoms Beyond (Connected to the Blossoms Beyond reaching to the Eternal) is the High-Overseer of the Eternal faith, based within the Eternal Temple on Biesel.

Connected to the Blossoms Beyond comes from quite a rather distinct lineage - one considered to be the eldest of the entirety of the SASV Ophion. Supposedly capable of being traced back almost six or seven millennia, where seniority is a species concept that is respected by all, it was inevitable that Blossoms would rise and accomplish what they have.

Their formative years were spent gather support, and funds, for the creation of the Eternal Temple whilst on New Gibson - but after resettling themselves to Biesel. The six-decade-long construction efforts would eventually come to head in '''2431 CE''' and thus push the Argus to become the leader of the entire Dionae community of Biesel. Considered a loving, extremely respected and well-liked Gestalt, they are known to be extremely pleasant and hospitable, being well versed in cross-species communication and speaking all known common languages fluently.

==Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis==
'''Born 1st June 2290'''

Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis (Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis spread across the Void) was necessary for the formation of the Blood Buddy Organisation - one designed to increase the knowledge of Dionae across the Orion Spur through various different methods but most notably through the use of 'Blood Educating'.

Known to be incredibly intelligent, the Argus has managed to succeed in all avenues - even going to far as to travel across the entirety of the Orion Spur to garner additional samples of the Blood Market. Most notably, they have a close relationship with Zeng-Hu President Hou Hsiao-Li.

==Sorrow and Apathy==

A musician and producer. Allegedly a former Dominian Harvest Dionae, Sorrow is famous for their music which is described as new wave “nymph-wave”. Usually sung in rootsong, the music tends to be catchy and somewhat mournful with the lyrics covering themes of hopelessness and loss. A citizen of Biesel, a follower of the Eternal and a supporter of Dionae rights, Sorrow has been known to take a fatalistic, cynical view towards existence and the place of Dionae within the galaxy, famously quoted as saying “[the other species] will never understand or care to understand us. We’ll always be barely above animals in their eyes. Snowdrops in a midsummer garden.”
</div></div>
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=The Spirits of the Oasis=
These gestalts are relevant to the Spirits of the Oasis.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
==Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love==
'''Born in early '''Versakh 2451'''

Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love (referred to as Taarazi) are an infamous legend that has reached far and wide across the Moghesian wasteland. Considered one of the first Argus' discovered in the wasteland, but after a period of study in regards to the Dionae, High Priest Unzi declared the species to be sacred to the Sk'akh followers.
</div></div>
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=Labs of Xrim=
These gestalts are relevant to the Overgrown Labs of Xrim.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
===Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Cont.)===
'''Born 12th December 2301'''
Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities In Solemn Memory Of The Bygone Days Of A People Whom Have Learned Much Through The Pain Of Loss) spearheaded the formation of a sub-representative class of the Jargon Federation, comprised of only Dionae. They continue to garner support in hopes of increasing the responsibility given to the Dionae sub-representatives.

They are known for their compassion, and their unique perspective to the Jargon Federation, going as far to tour the fallen cities of Qerrbalak, as well as hosting various memorials for those lost to the tyrannical intelligence, Glorsh-Omega across the Orion Spur. They currently have dedicated their entity of interest to the planet of [[Ouerea]] and routinely conduct their duties from the surface.
</div></div>

Notable Dionae

2020-11-29T15:43:36Z

Zundy:

{{Navbox Lore}}
{{Navbox_Dionae_Lore}}

=Overview=
This is a page dedicated to notable Dioane across the Orion Spur. These are the most influential and important individuals whose actions impact the Dioane and its history at large.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=Biesel Choir=
These gestalts are relevant to the Biesel Choir.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
==Connected to the Blossoms Beyond==
'''Supposedly born on 16th August 2368'''
Connected to the Blossoms Beyond (Connected to the Blossoms Beyond reaching to the Eternal) is the High-Overseer of the Eternal faith, based within the Eternal Temple on Biesel.

Connected to the Blossoms Beyond comes from quite a rather distinct lineage - one considered to be the eldest of the entirety of the SASV Ophion. Supposedly capable of being traced back almost six or seven millennia, where seniority is a species concept that is respected by all, it was inevitable that Blossoms would rise and accomplish what they have.

Their formative years were spent gather support, and funds, for the creation of the Eternal Temple whilst on New Gibson - but after resettling themselves to Biesel. The six-decade-long construction efforts would eventually come to head in '''2431 CE''' and thus push the Argus to become the leader of the entire Dionae community of Biesel. Considered a loving, extremely respected and well-liked Gestalt, they are known to be extremely pleasant and hospitable, being well versed in cross-species communication and speaking all known common languages fluently.

==Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis==
'''Born 1st June 2290'''
Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis (Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis spread across the Void) was necessary for the formation of the Blood Buddy Organisation - one designed to increase the knowledge of Dionae across the Orion Spur through various different methods but most notably through the use of 'Blood Educating'.

Known to be incredibly intelligent, the Argus has managed to succeed in all avenues - even going to far as to travel across the entirety of the Orion Spur to garner additional samples of the Blood Market. Most notably, they have a close relationship with Zeng-Hu President Hou Hsiao-Li.

==Sorrow and Apathy==

A musician and producer. Allegedly a former Dominian Harvest Dionae, Sorrow is famous for their music which is described as new wave “nymph-wave”. Usually sung in rootsong, the music tends to be catchy and somewhat mournful with the lyrics covering themes of hopelessness and loss. A citizen of Biesel, a follower of the Eternal and a supporter of Dionae rights, Sorrow has been known to take a fatalistic, cynical view towards existence and the place of Dionae within the galaxy, famously quoted as saying “[the other species] will never understand or care to understand us. We’ll always be barely above animals in their eyes. Snowdrops in a midsummer garden.”
</div></div>
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=The Spirits of the Oasis=
These gestalts are relevant to the Spirits of the Oasis.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
==Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love==
'''Born in early '''Versakh 2451'''
Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love (referred to as Taarazi) are an infamous legend that has reached far and wide across the Moghesian wasteland. Considered one of the first Argus' discovered in the wasteland, but after a period of study in regards to the Dionae, High Priest Unzi declared the species to be sacred to the Sk'akh followers.
</div></div>
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=Labs of Xrim=
These gestalts are relevant to the Overgrown Labs of Xrim.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
===Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Cont.)===
'''Born 12th December 2301'''
Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities In Solemn Memory Of The Bygone Days Of A People Whom Have Learned Much Through The Pain Of Loss) spearheaded the formation of a sub-representative class of the Jargon Federation, comprised of only Dionae. They continue to garner support in hopes of increasing the responsibility given to the Dionae sub-representatives.

They are known for their compassion, and their unique perspective to the Jargon Federation, going as far to tour the fallen cities of Qerrbalak, as well as hosting various memorials for those lost to the tyrannical intelligence, Glorsh-Omega across the Orion Spur. They currently have dedicated their entity of interest to the planet of [[Ouerea]] and routinely conduct their duties from the surface.
</div></div>

Notable Dionae

2020-11-29T15:40:54Z

Zundy:

{{Navbox Lore}}
{{Navbox_Dionae_Lore}}

=Overview=
This is a page dedicated to notable Dioane across the Orion Spur. These are the most influential and important individuals whose actions impact the Dioane and its history at large.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=Biesel Choir=
These gestalts are relevant to the Biesel Choir.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
==Connected to the Blossoms Beyond==

Connected to the Blossoms Beyond (Connected to the Blossoms Beyond reaching to the Eternal, supposedly born on '''16th August 2368''') is the High-Overseer of the Eternal faith, based within the Eternal Temple on Biesel.

Connected to the Blossoms Beyond comes from quite a rather distinct lineage - one considered to be the eldest of the entirety of the SASV Ophion. Supposedly capable of being traced back almost six or seven millennia, where seniority is a species concept that is respected by all, it was inevitable that Blossoms would rise and accomplish what they have.

Their formative years were spent gather support, and funds, for the creation of the Eternal Temple whilst on New Gibson - but after resettling themselves to Biesel. The six-decade-long construction efforts would eventually come to head in '''2431 CE''' and thus push the Argus to become the leader of the entire Dionae community of Biesel. Considered a loving, extremely respected and well-liked Gestalt, they are known to be extremely pleasant and hospitable, being well versed in cross-species communication and speaking all known common languages fluently.

==Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis==

Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis (Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis spread across the Void, born '''1st June 2290''') was necessary for the formation of the Blood Buddy Organisation - one designed to increase the knowledge of Dionae across the Orion Spur through various different methods but most notably through the use of 'Blood Educating'.

Known to be incredibly intelligent, the Argus has managed to succeed in all avenues - even going to far as to travel across the entirety of the Orion Spur to garner additional samples of the Blood Market. Most notably, they have a close relationship with Zeng-Hu President Hou Hsiao-Li.

==Sorrow and Apathy==

A musician and producer. Allegedly a former Dominian Harvest Dionae, Sorrow is famous for their music which is described as new wave “nymph-wave”. Usually sung in rootsong, the music tends to be catchy and somewhat mournful with the lyrics covering themes of hopelessness and loss. A citizen of Biesel, a follower of the Eternal and a supporter of Dionae rights, Sorrow has been known to take a fatalistic, cynical view towards existence and the place of Dionae within the galaxy, famously quoted as saying “[the other species] will never understand or care to understand us. We’ll always be barely above animals in their eyes. Snowdrops in a midsummer garden.”
</div></div>
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=The Spirits of the Oasis=
These gestalts are relevant to the Spirits of the Oasis.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
==Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love==

Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love (referred to as Taarazi, born in early '''Versakh 2451''') are an infamous legend that has reached far and wide across the Moghesian wasteland. Considered one of the first Argus' discovered in the wasteland, but after a period of study in regards to the Dionae, High Priest Unzi declared the species to be sacred to the Sk'akh followers.
</div></div>
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=Labs of Xrim=
These gestalts are relevant to the Overgrown Labs of Xrim.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
===Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Cont.)===

Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities In Solemn Memory Of The Bygone Days Of A People Whom Have Learned Much Through The Pain Of Loss, born '''12th December 2301''') spearheaded the formation of a sub-representative class of the Jargon Federation, comprised of only Dionae. They continue to garner support in hopes of increasing the responsibility given to the Dionae sub-representatives.

They are known for their compassion, and their unique perspective to the Jargon Federation, going as far to tour the fallen cities of Qerrbalak, as well as hosting various memorials for those lost to the tyrannical intelligence, Glorsh-Omega across the Orion Spur. They currently have dedicated their entity of interest to the planet of [[Ouerea]] and routinely conduct their duties from the surface.
</div></div>

Notable Dionae

2020-11-29T15:39:30Z

Zundy: /* Notable Dionae */ cleaned up the page to make it look nicer.

{{Navbox Lore}}
{{Navbox_Dionae_Lore}}

=Overview=
This is a page dedicated to notable Dioane across the Orion Spur. These are the most influential and important individuals whose actions impact the Dioane and its history at large.

<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=Biesel Choir=
These gestalts are relevant to the Biesel Choir.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
==Connected to the Blossoms Beyond==

Connected to the Blossoms Beyond (Connected to the Blossoms Beyond reaching to the Eternal, supposedly born on '''16th August 2368''') is the High-Overseer of the Eternal faith, based within the Eternal Temple on Biesel.

Connected to the Blossoms Beyond comes from quite a rather distinct lineage - one considered to be the eldest of the entirety of the SASV Ophion. Supposedly capable of being traced back almost six or seven millennia, where seniority is a species concept that is respected by all, it was inevitable that Blossoms would rise and accomplish what they have.

Their formative years were spent gather support, and funds, for the creation of the Eternal Temple whilst on New Gibson - but after resettling themselves to Biesel. The six-decade-long construction efforts would eventually come to head in '''2431 CE''' and thus push the Argus to become the leader of the entire Dionae community of Biesel. Considered a loving, extremely respected and well-liked Gestalt, they are known to be extremely pleasant and hospitable, being well versed in cross-species communication and speaking all known common languages fluently.

==Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis==

Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis (Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis spread across the Void, born '''1st June 2290''') was necessary for the formation of the Blood Buddy Organisation - one designed to increase the knowledge of Dionae across the Orion Spur through various different methods but most notably through the use of 'Blood Educating'.

Known to be incredibly intelligent, the Argus has managed to succeed in all avenues - even going to far as to travel across the entirety of the Orion Spur to garner additional samples of the Blood Market. Most notably, they have a close relationship with Zeng-Hu President Hou Hsiao-Li.

==Sorrow and Apathy==

A musician and producer. Allegedly a former Dominian Harvest Dionae, Sorrow is famous for their music which is described as new wave “nymph-wave”. Usually sung in rootsong, the music tends to be catchy and somewhat mournful with the lyrics covering themes of hopelessness and loss. A citizen of Biesel, a follower of the Eternal and a supporter of Dionae rights, Sorrow has been known to take a fatalistic, cynical view towards existence and the place of Dionae within the galaxy, famously quoted as saying “[the other species] will never understand or care to understand us. We’ll always be barely above animals in their eyes. Snowdrops in a midsummer garden.”
</div></div>
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=The Spirits of the Oasis=
These gestalts are relevant to the Spirits of the Oasis.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
==Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love==

Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love (referred to as Taarazi, born in early '''Versakh 2451''') are an infamous legend that has reached far and wide across the Moghesian wasteland. Considered one of the first Argus' discovered in the wasteland, but after a period of study in regards to the Dionae, High Priest Unzi declared the species to be sacred to the Sk'akh followers.
</div></div>
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

=Labs of Xrim=
These gestalts are relevant to the Overgrown Labs of Xrim.
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
===Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Cont.)===

Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities In Solemn Memory Of The Bygone Days Of A People Whom Have Learned Much Through The Pain Of Loss, born '''12th December 2301''') spearheaded the formation of a sub-representative class of the Jargon Federation, comprised of only Dionae. They continue to garner support in hopes of increasing the responsibility given to the Dionae sub-representatives.

They are known for their compassion, and their unique perspective to the Jargon Federation, going as far to tour the fallen cities of Qerrbalak, as well as hosting various memorials for those lost to the tyrannical intelligence, Glorsh-Omega across the Orion Spur. They currently have dedicated their entity of interest to the planet of [[Ouerea]] and routinely conduct their duties from the surface.
</div></div>
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">

Notable Dionae

2020-11-27T11:56:31Z

Zundy: /* Notable Dionae */ added Sorrow & Apathy and changed it into alphabetical order

{{Navbox Lore}}
{{Navbox_Dionae_Lore}}

==Notable Dionae==

===Connected to the Blossoms Beyond===

Connected to the Blossoms Beyond (Connected to the Blossoms Beyond reaching to the Eternal, supposedly born on '''16th August 2368''') is the High-Overseer of the Eternal faith, based within the Eternal Temple on Biesel.

Connected to the Blossoms Beyond comes from quite a rather distinct lineage - one considered to be the eldest of the entirety of the SASV Ophion. Supposedly capable of being traced back almost six or seven millennia, where seniority is a species concept that is respected by all, it was inevitable that Blossoms would rise and accomplish what they have.

Their formative years were spent gather support, and funds, for the creation of the Eternal Temple whilst on New Gibson - but after resettling themselves to Biesel. The six-decade-long construction efforts would eventually come to head in '''2431 CE''' and thus push the Argus to become the leader of the entire Dionae community of Biesel. Considered a loving, extremely respected and well-liked Gestalt, they are known to be extremely pleasant and hospitable, being well versed in cross-species communication and speaking all known common languages fluently.

===Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis===

Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis (Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis spread across the Void, born '''1st June 2290''') was necessary for the formation of the Blood Buddy Organisation - one designed to increase the knowledge of Dionae across the Orion Spur through various different methods but most notably through the use of 'Blood Educating'.

Known to be incredibly intelligent, the Argus has managed to succeed in all avenues - even going to far as to travel across the entirety of the Orion Spur to garner additional samples of the Blood Market. Most notably, they have a close relationship with Zeng-Hu President Hou Hsiao-Li.

===Sorrow and Apathy===

A musician and producer. Allegedly a former Dominian Harvest Dionae, Sorrow is famous for their music which is described as new wave “nymph-wave”. Usually sung in rootsong, the music tends to be catchy and somewhat mournful with the lyrics covering themes of hopelessness and loss. A citizen of Biesel, a follower of the Eternal and a supporter of Dionae rights, Sorrow has been known to take a fatalistic, cynical view towards existence and the place of Dionae within the galaxy, famously quoted as saying “[the other species] will never understand or care to understand us. We’ll always be barely above animals in their eyes. Snowdrops in a midsummer garden.”

===Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love===

Tranquil Companion Embracing the Weeping Souls in a Blanket of Purity and Love (referred to as Taarazi, born in early '''Versakh 2451''') are an infamous legend that has reached far and wide across the Moghesian wasteland. Considered one of the first Argus' discovered in the wasteland, but after a period of study in regards to the Dionae, High Priest Unzi declared the species to be scared to the Sk'akh followers.

===Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Cont.)===

Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities (Traverses Through The Dank Ruins Of Fallen Cities In Solemn Memory Of The Bygone Days Of A People Whom Have Learned Much Through The Pain Of Loss, born '''12th December 2301''') spearheaded the formation of a sub-representative class of the Jargon Federation, comprised of only Dionae. They continue to garner support in hopes of increasing the responsibility given to the Dionae sub-representatives.

They are known for their compassion, and their unique perspective to the Jargon Federation, going as far to tour the fallen cities of Qerrbalak, as well as hosting various memorials for those lost to the tyrannical intelligence, Glorsh-Omega across the Orion Spur. They currently have dedicated their entity of interest to the planet of [[Ouerea]] and routinely conduct their duties from the surface.

Dionae Culture

2020-11-16T09:46:16Z

Zundy: /* Burial and Practice */

{{Navbox Lore}}
{{Navbox_Dionae_Lore}}

==Culture==
Due to their highly nomadic nature, Dionae do not experience a universal culture outside of certain behaviours that appear to be biologically ingrained and somehow hard-wired into their genetics. Information on individual group cultures can be found in https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_History

===Naming===
Dionae naming conventions vary heavily based on gestalt, but have one consistency; They do not go by first name, last name, but instead use '''experiences, emotions, actions,''' or '''ideals''' as their source of identification. These experiences that define them can change just as the individual changes, and can be both literal and metaphorical. Some examples of where these might come from can be from routines in their lives, remembrances of mortals, a particular fascination in an emotion, a unique location where an important moment occurred, or even just a defining feature on their body. '''''As a player, it is up to you to decide what makes an experience, and you have a whole galaxy of cosmically ageless ideas to choose from. Be creative!'''''

====Experience Is What Matters====
The only time when one Diona is venerated above any other is when a more experienced and therefore more knowledgeable gestalt is present. This more experienced Diona is seen as more valuable due to their vaster stores of knowledge and therefore are protected over less experienced ones in a dangerous situation. A more experienced Diona will often take up the responsibility to educate a new one on their environment- including but not limited to the ways of local alien civilization. This is to simply get the newbie up to speed so they can be quicker on their way to learn more about their particular interests, whatever that may be.
More often than not, the older Diona is the more experienced, however this is not always true as a Diona gestalt may have spent its whole immortal life simply floating in a gas giant until it was scooped up into the fuel tank of a starship.

===Art===
While the species may make incredible artists in civilized space due to their longevity and capacity to learn, another form of visual art exists for Dionae that they practice as a recreational activity known simply as "Forma" and have two versions. Both utilize only their own bodies to make Gestalts in creative and practical ways alike. The first and most popular of the two is the Artem, or Art-Form. These are more for form than function and are used to display a Gestalt's creativity in strange and unique ways. Artem are typically observed being made in the void of space where they are free of the restrictions of gravity and require no rhyme nor reason to their design and exists purely as a hobby.

The second and perhaps most shocking of them is Vita, or Life-Form. Seen most often in some type of environment with gravity, there are two different forms: symbiotic which is done in the presence of other life forms, and competitive, preformed in areas where the concentration of Dionae are high. The symbiotic version is seen every day and is a form of passive mimicry to blend in with their extraterrestrial neighbors whereas the competitive version is a surprising display of violence. One is to increase their chance of survival in an alien landscape, the other used as a strange yet creative form of population control.

Competitive Vita is a theoretical evolution simulator where each Gestalt will merge, often as fantastical forms of creatures, which is then tested with the current environment they are in under different conditions. If present, they will then be tested against other non-sentient life forms before finally each other. Throughout the competition the losing Gestalts are either consumed or absorbed into their forms as additions, the final battle being the most dramatic display of a Gestalt's abilities. While most sapients would find this practice barbaric and contradictory to the species' desire to gain and preserve knowledge, the fallen and their knowledge simply become a part of the victorious.

===In Society===
Dionae are extremely complex, taking up many different types and forms. It is often said that Dionae have a hard time integrating into society, even though they are found in the majority of the nations throughout the galaxy. The largest clusters can be found within the Solarian Alliance, Jargon Federation, and the Republic of Biesel, however, there have been sights of ‘wild’ Dionae on the edges of civilized space. The ‘wild’ Dionae usually are integrated, but some have been hunted down for a unique resource located within them; Ambergris.

Their concept of money is vastly different from other races, considering Dionae only need a little radiation and warmth, both of which can be extracted from sunlight. Many of the gestalts are used often for space-related jobs, including exterior ship repairs and mining thanks to their immunity to the void, as long as there is light nearby. It is sometimes possible to find Dionae have become housemates with other species, paying rent, and doing various menial tasks in exchange for safe shelter.

Dionae have been known to form communes on the outskirts of the major cities, such as Mendell City and Phoenixport. The communes consist of various gestalts unifying to assist the surrounding environment, often beginning small restorative efforts in particular ecologically damaged areas. Many have said without these efforts, the vast majority of the woodlands on Biesel would have fallen years ago.

Details regarding Dionae in each specific nation can be found, here: https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_Relations

====Education====

Although Dionae can contain vast amounts of knowledge and possess extreme intelligence, the species still have to obtain the appropriate degrees for the occupation they wish to pursue in their chosen location of residence. This can be accomplished after being registered for citizenship. All newly-registered Dionae must complete and pass the courses required for their field if their degrees from past planetary systems is not recognized in the new location, or they lack one all together. Their education must be defended one year following the awarding of a degree, and then every five years there on out. However, that timer is reset due to the fact that after each merging, Dionae are required to defend their education along with their re-registration for citizenship due to the possibility of accumulation of new knowledge, and possible loss of information depending on the nature of the new merging.

===Relationships===
As sapient beings Dionae, from nymph to gestalt, are capable of forming platonic relationships with each other and other species. Nymphs and gestalts "merging" is the closest human analogue for a "romantic relationship" with Dionae. Due to the low complexity of nymph emotions and thought, initial merging into a [[Dionae_Forms#Cerberus|Cerberus]] tends to be carried out for practical purposes by all nymphs involved. Likewise, larger forms of Dionae such as [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]]’ and beyond might merge with a single nymph as a symbiotic form of a teacher/growth relationship with the nymph learning from its new gestalt partners and the gestalt itself using the new nymph for grown and biomass.

Due to the complexity of memory and thought, gestalts at [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] size and beyond are a lot more particular when merging with partners of a similar size or above. To merge is to become one mind and body in totality, therefore only those gestalts that truly love and respect each other would carry out the act. It is extremely rare for Dionae gestalts to split over disagreements and more likely for a “troublesome” or sick nymph to be ejected by the mass or a nymph to be temporarily split off to carry out a key task like safe exploration or to get help in a dangerous situation where the whole is in peril. In extreme cases the whole gestalt may break apart to save as many nymphs as possible. This is extremely traumatic, akin to losing yourself and is avoided. It’s a sad fact of life for gestalts from the Titan Prime cluster, most of which would have had to break apart multiple times throughout their lives.

When a gestalt grows beyond the size of a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]], it becomes difficult for these forms to find work within known space and therefore becomes necessary for the gestalt to split temporarily into smaller forms in order to carry out tasks throughout the day. These split forms are often referred to as a “split partner” or “part of me” by the gestalts involved. If pressed, a Dione might describe their split partner as an aspect of their whole which their partner represents; “they are the brave part of me”, “they are the smart part of me” or something similar. Splitting in this way is unpleasant for the gestalt but a necessary evil. Gestalts who split in this manner all suffer from [[Dionae#Psychology_and_Emotions|“splitting anxiety”]] and as such tend to work in close proximity to each other. Though analogous to a close romantic relationship, split Dionae are much closer than this in reality, essentially being aspects of a whole with each gestalt being a personality, memories and thoughts of a singular being, temporarily split apart. The larger the original gestalt the more split forms there could be, therefore it is possible for a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] gestalt to have many split partners.

===Blood Market===
The Blood Market, known as such colloquially, is a relatively private sector of the DNA Market. It operates out of a facility called ‘Bloodworks’ in District Ten, owned by the Blood Buddy Organization. The Market is mostly used by Dionae looking to enhance their skills in a certain field, or simply someone raising a nymph. The Bloodworks currently holds a monopoly over the lucrative trade, charging from 3000CR to 20,000CR for samples large enough for Dionae to learn from.

The ‘Blood Buddy Organization’ was founded by a Diona Argus, Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis, and is a ‘publically’ funded organization spearheaded by various Researchers from the Jargon Federation, Sol Alliance and Republic of Biesel. The company holds various fundraising events, where many skilful participants are noted to donate their blood in order to be sold on the market. The Blood Buddy Organization operates mostly within the Republic of Biesel, but are noted to sell their products to other nations. The largest donor to BBO is Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals, who recently gifted them the facility in District Eleven.

The Blood Market is not free of criminals, however, one particular group stands out more than the rest. The Blood Runners are notorious/renowned for their criminal undertakings, specifically their undercutting of the Blood Buddy Organization. The Blood Runners sell their samples from 1000CR to 10,000CR - leading the BBO to place reward for the arrest of the gang leader, Xia Lu-Qing. They have also been known to dabble in Corporate Espionage, using the Dionae’s ability to extract information from blood samples to their advantage.

==Religion==
The entrance of Dionae into the Orion Spur, alongside the Skrell, has been nothing short of a mystery - allowing many theories to form of their creation, some have even gone as far as to create religions surrounding the species.

===The Eternal===
[[File:Eternal.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Icons.|From left to right: Symbol of the Eternal, symbol of Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, symbol of the Blood Eternal.]]

====Belief====
Followers of '''The Eternal''' believe that a primordial entity exists in Light, Energy and Essence - which the Dionae are the embodiment of.

They believe that the Dionae were made to ensure that all things born from the stars return to stars, eventually. Before they may return the Dionae must devour as much knowledge and biomass as they can, growing exponentially until they reach the mythical Titan form, becoming a star once more. Transcended into a star, the Dionae will emit light and energy until they die, at which point their essence will spread across the void to birth new Dionae. It is in this way that '''the eternal cycle''' is achieved. Scholars of the Eternal link this to the very real potential outcome of Titan form Dionae which theoretically could grow to such mass as to collapse into a star, thus giving off "light and energy" before eventually going supernova and expelling matter or "essence" across the cosmos.

Dionae followers from outside of faction space (deep space or unknown frontier worlds) tend to be forceful in their ‘encouragement’ of other Dionae to join. In times when they have been rejected, they have attacked and consumed in order for the expansion of The Eternal's will. The followers of The Eternal's will that make their home on Biesel however, are much more subdued in their activities. They tend to preach openly, trying to encourage Dionae and non-Dionae to join through words and good deeds, and never by force. Dionae police officers have been known to seek out and catch any extreme followers of the Eternal who attempt to forcefully convert or even “consume” others, the latter of which is, thankfully for everyone and the Dionae community, an extreme rarity in Biesel.
Positronic brains can not yet be absorbed and their memories passed into the “Light”. Eternal followers believe that a positronic entity is like any other, however their memories have to be “viewed” instead of absorbed. Many believe that it’s only a matter of time until a technology is developed to allow positronic entities to be absorbed like any other species.

====Burial and Practice====
All followers of the Eternal regardless of species believe that upon death their body should be preserved and merged with a growing Dionae gestalt as quickly as possible so they might one day return to the stars and continue the eternal cycle. For followers based within Biesel this means to be consumed by "Connected to the Blossoms Beyond", an Argus sized Dionae and leader of the Eternal within Biesel. If this is not possible then absorption by any Dionae gestalt is preferable. Outside of Biesel space, consumption by any large Dionae gestalt is acceptable.

In this way, followers of the Eternal also believe they are preserved within the gestalt as memories and emotions. As long as they are remembered and have been merged, followers of the Eternal believe they live on within the gestalt.

The Eternal faith’s symbols originate as audio frequencies or “songs”. Non Dionae members of the faith have, with guidance from Overseers, “translated” many symbols into a visual format for non-Dionae. Those thoughts, feelings and symbols that are not able to be translated are “sung” to the faithful, with non-Dionae learning to understand and even sing these “symbols'' themselves.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">

'''The Song of the Eternal'''

The song of the symbol representing the Eternal and the faith in general. It sounds like ‘’a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.’’

'''The Song of Energy'''

The song of the symbol representing energy, birth and action. It sounds like ‘’an intense melody building into an aggressive crescendo before abruptly ending.”

'''The Song of Essence'''

The song of the symbol representing essence and strength. It sounds like “a long, strong melody slowly rising to a high note before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Greeting'''

The song of the emotion associated with a pleasant greeting. It sounds like “a brief, colorful melody.”

'''The Song of Light'''

The song of the symbol representing light, wisdom and nourishment. It sounds like “a loud, operatic melody which seems to travel upwards then downwards in pitch before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Love'''

The song of the emotion associated with a both romantic and platonic love. It sounds like “a soft, angelic melody that seems to drift through the air before softly ending.”

'''The Song of Mourning'''

The song of the emotion associated with both mourning the dead and mourning general deep loss. It sounds like “a strong, keening melody which slowly drifts into silence.”

'''In game, these audio symbols can be “sung” using the chat command “!” and copying everything from “a” in the song’s sound description. For example, “!sings a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.”'''
</div></div>
[[File:Eternal_symbols.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Symbols.|The translated symbols of the Eternal - Light, Energy and Essence.]]

====Leadership====
The de facto leadership of the faith is made up of Argus sized and larger gestalts which commune with one another to philosophise about the nature of reality and the faith within it. In the known galaxy the current “head” of the faith is ‘Connected to the Blossoms Beyond’, an Argus gestalt living within the Eternal Temple of Biesel, who communicates with the ancient gestalts in deep space.
Overseers make up the equivalent of the priesthood of the Eternal faith. Overseers work alongside the large Argus gestalts, primarily Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, to relay any important messages to the congregation and largely to act as mentors and trainers, passing on their knowledge to the followers of the Eternal. Most if not all Overseers are experts in other fields, often working in different roles whilst acting as an Overseer so that they might better meet with and pass on messages to the faithful. Most Overseers tend to be Dionae but it is possible for a committed non-Dionae to become one. By virtue of the audio symbology of the Eternal non-Dionae Overseers tend to be good singers. '''On station, an Overseer might work as, say, a medical doctor training other medical staff whilst also acting as an Overseer for the Eternal.'''

====Lexicon====
Key words and phrases of the Eternal which have made their way into Dionae culture on Biesel:

Void - Means nothingness. To be "returned to the void" is negative and implies a being or thing is no longer part of the eternal cycle. It has completely ceased to exist in any form. “The Void comes/calls” or just “The Void” is often said by Dioane and Eternal followers to mean “something bad is going to happen”, “what you are doing is going to have a dangerous outcome for you” or “I don’t like where this is going.”

Young Star - A Dionae who is on the path to becoming a star. This could mean through consumption of biomass but usually implies a scholar who is "absorbing" knowledge. A Dione scientist might be referred to as a "young star".

Eternal Cycle - The Eternal Cycle. Refers to the cycle of life and death.

====The Blood Eternal====
Followed largely by the Viscerabelt cluster and more unsavory, aggressive Dionae. The Blood Eternal is a more violent interpretation of the Eternal, represented by a blood red icon of the Eternal with a bloody maw.

Followers of the Blood Eternal are largely identical to their normal counterparts with one key difference: they prefer the consumption of flesh and blood to gain knowledge unlike regular followers of the Eternal who's pursuit of knowledge is largely based around standard scholarly learning.

Blood Eternal followers tend to decorate their temples with blood and gore as well as perform live sacrifices to the Eternal. An unsavory practice that tends to offend the sensibilities of other species hence their unofficial “banishment” to the belt.

Normal followers of the Eternal tend to view Blood Eternal followers as somewhat illogical due to the fact that they often seem to waste blood in their rituals. Blood Eternal followers believe they're taking the Eternals' teaching to their logical conclusion - to consume everything where possible, disregarding the normal Eternal followers’ criticisms out of hand as “a lack of understanding.” The vast majority of the Blood Eternal followers are still sensible with their consumption - hunting animals, purchasing or at the very worst, stealing blood and flesh.
The Blood Maw is the largest temple in the Viscerabelt and the known galaxy. Essentially a hollow asteroid coated in red, glistening Dioane biomass. The Blood Maw is in the process of constructing its own Dioane communication spire.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Blood Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
'''The Song of Sacrifice'''

The song which represents sacrifice to the Eternal, death and feasting. It sounds like ‘’a bass boosted, howling dirge which ends in a bone rattling crescendo.”
</div></div>

{{Navbox Lore}}
[[Category:Pages]]
[[Category:Lore]]
[[Category:Species]]
[[Category:Dionaea]]

Dionae Culture

2020-10-26T17:07:40Z

Zundy: /* Religion */

{{Navbox Lore}}
{{Navbox_Dionae_Lore}}

==Culture==
Due to their highly nomadic nature, Dionae do not experience a universal culture outside of certain behaviours that appear to be biologically ingrained and somehow hard-wired into their genetics. Information on individual group cultures can be found in https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_History

===Naming===
Dionae naming conventions vary heavily based on gestalt, but have one consistency; They do not go by first name, last name, but instead use '''experiences, emotions, actions,''' or '''ideals''' as their source of identification. These experiences that define them can change just as the individual changes, and can be both literal and metaphorical. Some examples of where these might come from can be from routines in their lives, remembrances of mortals, a particular fascination in an emotion, a unique location where an important moment occurred, or even just a defining feature on their body. '''''As a player, it is up to you to decide what makes an experience, and you have a whole galaxy of cosmically ageless ideas to choose from. Be creative!'''''

====Experience Is What Matters====
The only time when one Diona is venerated above any other is when a more experienced and therefore more knowledgeable gestalt is present. This more experienced Diona is seen as more valuable due to their vaster stores of knowledge and therefore are protected over less experienced ones in a dangerous situation. A more experienced Diona will often take up the responsibility to educate a new one on their environment- including but not limited to the ways of local alien civilization. This is to simply get the newbie up to speed so they can be quicker on their way to learn more about their particular interests, whatever that may be.
More often than not, the older Diona is the more experienced, however this is not always true as a Diona gestalt may have spent its whole immortal life simply floating in a gas giant until it was scooped up into the fuel tank of a starship.

===Art===
While the species may make incredible artists in civilized space due to their longevity and capacity to learn, another form of visual art exists for Dionae that they practice as a recreational activity known simply as "Forma" and have two versions. Both utilize only their own bodies to make Gestalts in creative and practical ways alike. The first and most popular of the two is the Artem, or Art-Form. These are more for form than function and are used to display a Gestalt's creativity in strange and unique ways. Artem are typically observed being made in the void of space where they are free of the restrictions of gravity and require no rhyme nor reason to their design and exists purely as a hobby.

The second and perhaps most shocking of them is Vita, or Life-Form. Seen most often in some type of environment with gravity, there are two different forms: symbiotic which is done in the presence of other life forms, and competitive, preformed in areas where the concentration of Dionae are high. The symbiotic version is seen every day and is a form of passive mimicry to blend in with their extraterrestrial neighbors whereas the competitive version is a surprising display of violence. One is to increase their chance of survival in an alien landscape, the other used as a strange yet creative form of population control.

Competitive Vita is a theoretical evolution simulator where each Gestalt will merge, often as fantastical forms of creatures, which is then tested with the current environment they are in under different conditions. If present, they will then be tested against other non-sentient life forms before finally each other. Throughout the competition the losing Gestalts are either consumed or absorbed into their forms as additions, the final battle being the most dramatic display of a Gestalt's abilities. While most sapients would find this practice barbaric and contradictory to the species' desire to gain and preserve knowledge, the fallen and their knowledge simply become a part of the victorious.

===In Society===
Dionae are extremely complex, taking up many different types and forms. It is often said that Dionae have a hard time integrating into society, even though they are found in the majority of the nations throughout the galaxy. The largest clusters can be found within the Solarian Alliance, Jargon Federation, and the Republic of Biesel, however, there have been sights of ‘wild’ Dionae on the edges of civilized space. The ‘wild’ Dionae usually are integrated, but some have been hunted down for a unique resource located within them; Ambergris.

Their concept of money is vastly different from other races, considering Dionae only need a little radiation and warmth, both of which can be extracted from sunlight. Many of the gestalts are used often for space-related jobs, including exterior ship repairs and mining thanks to their immunity to the void, as long as there is light nearby. It is sometimes possible to find Dionae have become housemates with other species, paying rent, and doing various menial tasks in exchange for safe shelter.

Dionae have been known to form communes on the outskirts of the major cities, such as Mendell City and Phoenixport. The communes consist of various gestalts unifying to assist the surrounding environment, often beginning small restorative efforts in particular ecologically damaged areas. Many have said without these efforts, the vast majority of the woodlands on Biesel would have fallen years ago.

Details regarding Dionae in each specific nation can be found, here: https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_Relations

====Education====

Although Dionae can contain vast amounts of knowledge and possess extreme intelligence, the species still have to obtain the appropriate degrees for the occupation they wish to pursue in their chosen location of residence. This can be accomplished after being registered for citizenship. All newly-registered Dionae must complete and pass the courses required for their field if their degrees from past planetary systems is not recognized in the new location, or they lack one all together. Their education must be defended one year following the awarding of a degree, and then every five years there on out. However, that timer is reset due to the fact that after each merging, Dionae are required to defend their education along with their re-registration for citizenship due to the possibility of accumulation of new knowledge, and possible loss of information depending on the nature of the new merging.

===Relationships===
As sapient beings Dionae, from nymph to gestalt, are capable of forming platonic relationships with each other and other species. Nymphs and gestalts "merging" is the closest human analogue for a "romantic relationship" with Dionae. Due to the low complexity of nymph emotions and thought, initial merging into a [[Dionae_Forms#Cerberus|Cerberus]] tends to be carried out for practical purposes by all nymphs involved. Likewise, larger forms of Dionae such as [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]]’ and beyond might merge with a single nymph as a symbiotic form of a teacher/growth relationship with the nymph learning from its new gestalt partners and the gestalt itself using the new nymph for grown and biomass.

Due to the complexity of memory and thought, gestalts at [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] size and beyond are a lot more particular when merging with partners of a similar size or above. To merge is to become one mind and body in totality, therefore only those gestalts that truly love and respect each other would carry out the act. It is extremely rare for Dionae gestalts to split over disagreements and more likely for a “troublesome” or sick nymph to be ejected by the mass or a nymph to be temporarily split off to carry out a key task like safe exploration or to get help in a dangerous situation where the whole is in peril. In extreme cases the whole gestalt may break apart to save as many nymphs as possible. This is extremely traumatic, akin to losing yourself and is avoided. It’s a sad fact of life for gestalts from the Titan Prime cluster, most of which would have had to break apart multiple times throughout their lives.

When a gestalt grows beyond the size of a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]], it becomes difficult for these forms to find work within known space and therefore becomes necessary for the gestalt to split temporarily into smaller forms in order to carry out tasks throughout the day. These split forms are often referred to as a “split partner” or “part of me” by the gestalts involved. If pressed, a Dione might describe their split partner as an aspect of their whole which their partner represents; “they are the brave part of me”, “they are the smart part of me” or something similar. Splitting in this way is unpleasant for the gestalt but a necessary evil. Gestalts who split in this manner all suffer from [[Dionae#Psychology_and_Emotions|“splitting anxiety”]] and as such tend to work in close proximity to each other. Though analogous to a close romantic relationship, split Dionae are much closer than this in reality, essentially being aspects of a whole with each gestalt being a personality, memories and thoughts of a singular being, temporarily split apart. The larger the original gestalt the more split forms there could be, therefore it is possible for a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] gestalt to have many split partners.

===Blood Market===
The Blood Market, known as such colloquially, is a relatively private sector of the DNA Market. It operates out of a facility called ‘Bloodworks’ in District Ten, owned by the Blood Buddy Organization. The Market is mostly used by Dionae looking to enhance their skills in a certain field, or simply someone raising a nymph. The Bloodworks currently holds a monopoly over the lucrative trade, charging from 3000CR to 20,000CR for samples large enough for Dionae to learn from.

The ‘Blood Buddy Organization’ was founded by a Diona Argus, Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis, and is a ‘publically’ funded organization spearheaded by various Researchers from the Jargon Federation, Sol Alliance and Republic of Biesel. The company holds various fundraising events, where many skilful participants are noted to donate their blood in order to be sold on the market. The Blood Buddy Organization operates mostly within the Republic of Biesel, but are noted to sell their products to other nations. The largest donor to BBO is Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals, who recently gifted them the facility in District Eleven.

The Blood Market is not free of criminals, however, one particular group stands out more than the rest. The Blood Runners are notorious/renowned for their criminal undertakings, specifically their undercutting of the Blood Buddy Organization. The Blood Runners sell their samples from 1000CR to 10,000CR - leading the BBO to place reward for the arrest of the gang leader, Xia Lu-Qing. They have also been known to dabble in Corporate Espionage, using the Dionae’s ability to extract information from blood samples to their advantage.

==Religion==
The entrance of Dionae into the Orion Spur, alongside the Skrell, has been nothing short of a mystery - allowing many theories to form of their creation, some have even gone as far as to create religions surrounding the species.

===The Eternal===
[[File:Eternal.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Icons.|From left to right: Symbol of the Eternal, symbol of Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, symbol of the Blood Eternal.]]

====Belief====
Followers of '''The Eternal''' believe that a primordial entity exists in Light, Energy and Essence - which the Dionae are the embodiment of.

They believe that the Dionae were made to ensure that all things born from the stars return to stars, eventually. Before they may return the Dionae must devour as much knowledge and biomass as they can, growing exponentially until they reach the mythical Titan form, becoming a star once more. Transcended into a star, the Dionae will emit light and energy until they die, at which point their essence will spread across the void to birth new Dionae. It is in this way that '''the eternal cycle''' is achieved. Scholars of the Eternal link this to the very real potential outcome of Titan form Dionae which theoretically could grow to such mass as to collapse into a star, thus giving off "light and energy" before eventually going supernova and expelling matter or "essence" across the cosmos.

Dionae followers from outside of faction space (deep space or unknown frontier worlds) tend to be forceful in their ‘encouragement’ of other Dionae to join. In times when they have been rejected, they have attacked and consumed in order for the expansion of The Eternal's will. The followers of The Eternal's will that make their home on Biesel however, are much more subdued in their activities. They tend to preach openly, trying to encourage Dionae and non-Dionae to join through words and good deeds, and never by force. Dionae police officers have been known to seek out and catch any extreme followers of the Eternal who attempt to forcefully convert or even “consume” others, the latter of which is, thankfully for everyone and the Dionae community, an extreme rarity in Biesel.
Positronic brains can not yet be absorbed and their memories passed into the “Light”. Eternal followers believe that a positronic entity is like any other, however their memories have to be “viewed” instead of absorbed. Many believe that it’s only a matter of time until a technology is developed to allow positronic entities to be absorbed like any other species.

====Burial and Practice====
All followers of the Eternal regardless of species believe that upon death their body should be preserved and merged with a growing Dionae gestalt as quickly as possible so they might one day return to the stars and continue the eternal cycle. For followers based within Biesel this means to be consumed by "Connected to the Blossoms Beyond", an Argus sized Dionae and leader of the Eternal within Biesel. If this is not possible then absorption by any Dionae gestalt is preferable. Outside of Biesel space, consumption by any large Dionae gestalt is acceptable.

In this way, followers of the Eternal also believe they are preserved within the gestalt as memories and emotions. As long as they are remembered and have been merged, followers of the Eternal believe they live on within the gestalt.

The Eternal faith’s symbols originate as audio frequencies or “songs”. Non Dionae members of the faith have, with guidance from Overseers, “translated” many symbols into a visual format for non-Dionae. Those thoughts, feelings and symbols that are not able to be translated are “sung” to the faithful, with non-Dionae learning to understand and even sing these “symbols'' themselves.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">

'''The Song of the Eternal'''

The song of the symbol representing the Eternal and the faith in general. It sounds like ‘’a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.’’

'''The Song of Energy'''

The song of the symbol representing energy, birth and action. It sounds like ‘’an intense melody building into an aggressive crescendo before abruptly ending.”

'''The Song of Essence'''

The song of the symbol representing essence and strength. It sounds like “a long, strong melody slowly rising to a high note before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Greeting'''

The song of the emotion associated with a pleasant greeting. It sounds like “a brief, colorful melody.”

'''The Song of Light'''

The song of the symbol representing light, wisdom and nourishment. It sounds like “a loud, operatic melody which seems to travel upwards then downwards in pitch before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Love'''

The song of the emotion associated with a both romantic and platonic love. It sounds like “a soft, angelic melody that seems to drift through the air before softly ending.”

'''The Song of Mourning'''

The song of the emotion associated with both mourning the dead and mourning general deep loss. It sounds like “a strong, keening melody which slowly drifts into silence.”

'''In game, these audio symbols can be “sung” using the chat command “!” and copying everything from “a” in the song’s sound description. For example, “!sings a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.”'''
</div></div>
[[File:Eternal_symbols.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Symbols.|The translated symbols of the Eternal - Light, Energy and Essence.]]
The de facto leadership of the faith is made up of Argus sized and larger gestalts which commune with one another to philosophise about the nature of reality and the faith within it. In the known galaxy the current “head” of the faith is ‘Connected to the Blossoms Beyond’, an Argus gestalt living within the Eternal Temple of Biesel, who communicates with the ancient gestalts in deep space.
Overseers make up the equivalent of the priesthood of the Eternal faith. Overseers work alongside the large Argus gestalts, primarily Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, to relay any important messages to the congregation and largely to act as mentors and trainers, passing on their knowledge to the followers of the Eternal. Most if not all Overseers are experts in other fields, often working in different roles whilst acting as an Overseer so that they might better meet with and pass on messages to the faithful. Most Overseers tend to be Dionae but it is possible for a committed non-Dionae to become one. By virtue of the audio symbology of the Eternal non-Dionae Overseers tend to be good singers. '''On station, an Overseer might work as, say, a medical doctor training other medical staff whilst also acting as an Overseer for the Eternal.'''

====Lexicon====
Key words and phrases of the Eternal which have made their way into Dionae culture on Biesel:

Void - Means nothingness. To be "returned to the void" is negative and implies a being or thing is no longer part of the eternal cycle. It has completely ceased to exist in any form. “The Void comes/calls” or just “The Void” is often said by Dioane and Eternal followers to mean “something bad is going to happen”, “what you are doing is going to have a dangerous outcome for you” or “I don’t like where this is going.”

Young Star - A Dionae who is on the path to becoming a star. This could mean through consumption of biomass but usually implies a scholar who is "absorbing" knowledge. A Dione scientist might be referred to as a "young star".

Eternal Cycle - The Eternal Cycle. Refers to the cycle of life and death.

====The Blood Eternal====
Followed largely by the Viscerabelt cluster and more unsavory, aggressive Dionae. The Blood Eternal is a more violent interpretation of the Eternal, represented by a blood red icon of the Eternal with a bloody maw.

Followers of the Blood Eternal are largely identical to their normal counterparts with one key difference: they prefer the consumption of flesh and blood to gain knowledge unlike regular followers of the Eternal who's pursuit of knowledge is largely based around standard scholarly learning.

Blood Eternal followers tend to decorate their temples with blood and gore as well as perform live sacrifices to the Eternal. An unsavory practice that tends to offend the sensibilities of other species hence their unofficial “banishment” to the belt.

Normal followers of the Eternal tend to view Blood Eternal followers as somewhat illogical due to the fact that they often seem to waste blood in their rituals. Blood Eternal followers believe they're taking the Eternals' teaching to their logical conclusion - to consume everything where possible, disregarding the normal Eternal followers’ criticisms out of hand as “a lack of understanding.” The vast majority of the Blood Eternal followers are still sensible with their consumption - hunting animals, purchasing or at the very worst, stealing blood and flesh.
The Blood Maw is the largest temple in the Viscerabelt and the known galaxy. Essentially a hollow asteroid coated in red, glistening Dioane biomass. The Blood Maw is in the process of constructing its own Dioane communication spire.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Blood Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
'''The Song of Sacrifice'''

The song which represents sacrifice to the Eternal, death and feasting. It sounds like ‘’a bass boosted, howling dirge which ends in a bone rattling crescendo.”
</div></div>

===Dienabi===
[[File:Dienabi.png|thumb|alt=Dienabi Banner.|The Dienabi Banner is a representation of how the followers declare themselves 'The Awakened']]
Dienabi is a relatively forgotten Skrell legend told to many Skrell spawn, however, following the disappearance of Glorsh-Omega it began to no longer be seen as a children’s tale. Followers believed that the Dienabi - a term literally meaning Tree-Child - originated from an omniscient cosmic entity that was called '''Oernabi''' (Tree-God) who governed all of life on Qerrbalak. They were said to be a part of a prophecy, one where they would walk amongst the Skrell after having saved them from a cataclysmic event.

Although Oernabi’s prophecy was merely a children’s tale, it was shortly after the fall of Glorsh-Omega, that the story changed from legend to fact. The discovery of the Conglomerate, a large celestial object created of flora-based physiological beings capable of understanding the Skrell through sacrificial blood, brought many Skrell into a period of great curiosity. Many wondered if Oernabi truly was an all-powerful cosmic entity that had sacrificed themselves in order to defeat Glorsh-Omega.

The prophecy was regarded by many Skrell to have been fulfilled, following the disappearance of '''Glorsh-Omega'''. Oernabi had sacrificed themselves to spare the Skrell, and now would walk amongst the Skrell as they once foretold. It was shortly after the discovery of the Conglomerate that an almost cult-like religion spawned. They revered proclaimed that the Dionae were not discovered accidentally, but that Oernabi had guided them towards Qerrbalak moments before their death. The religion, nicknamed Dienabi, would remain relatively unheard of until the discover of Epsilon Ursae Minor - The Planet of Eden.

[https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_History#Epsilon_Ursae_Minoris_History|Epsilon Ursae Minoris] was said to be rich in untouched wilderness, and after Captain Weirun Tup and their crew had touched down, they discovered a colony of Dionae. Them and their team remained for the duration of their expedition to learn more about the planet and it's inhabitants, finding that the Dionae had a vast wealth of information stored in their collective memories. Captain Weirun Tup, a recent follower of Dienabi, would often accompany the Dionae in order to explore their faith more deeply and the Dionae had one condition; Any who remained were to follow the Dionae's example and were to leave the landscape undisturbed for the most part.

When it was time for the crew to depart, the Jargon Federation had wished for a permanent ambassador to be implemented to ensure smooth relations between the Diona and the Federation. Captain Weirun Tup, a follower of Dienabi, immediately volunteered to step down from their position as Captain and remain behind, thus beginning their journey to write what is now considered the most sacred document to the Dienabi followers, '''The Deathflower Journal'''. The Deathflower Journal is best described as a manifesto by other followers, who use it whilst meditating. The Deathflower Journal contains various personal discoveries and notes.

Director Weirun Tup remained on Epsilon Ursae Minoris for another nine years before disappearing mysteriously one night, where the following morning many Dionae returned their personal items and stated that the Director was now with them. This had raised a few red flags amongst the research team, however, when it was revealed that the Dionae had retained their memories it went from suspicion to heightened curiosity. The Director was venerated by other followers of Dienabi as the first to have truly ascended and become a part of something greater, and it is said that one can still speak to the Director through a Gestalt that remains with the Skrellian settlement and since then, many followers of Dienabi often will undertake a pilgrimage to and from Epsilon Ursae Minoris - others choosing it as their final resting place through "reincarnation", following Director Weirun Tup's example and becoming a part of the Ascended. Followers call themselves '''‘The Awakened’''' and those who do not follow '''“The Dormant”'''. Dienabi is considered a minority compared to other faiths within the Jargon Federation.

{{Navbox Lore}}
[[Category:Pages]]
[[Category:Lore]]
[[Category:Species]]
[[Category:Dionaea]]

Dionae Culture

2020-10-26T17:06:49Z

Zundy: /* Religion */

{{Navbox Lore}}
{{Navbox_Dionae_Lore}}

==Culture==
Due to their highly nomadic nature, Dionae do not experience a universal culture outside of certain behaviours that appear to be biologically ingrained and somehow hard-wired into their genetics. Information on individual group cultures can be found in https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_History

===Naming===
Dionae naming conventions vary heavily based on gestalt, but have one consistency; They do not go by first name, last name, but instead use '''experiences, emotions, actions,''' or '''ideals''' as their source of identification. These experiences that define them can change just as the individual changes, and can be both literal and metaphorical. Some examples of where these might come from can be from routines in their lives, remembrances of mortals, a particular fascination in an emotion, a unique location where an important moment occurred, or even just a defining feature on their body. '''''As a player, it is up to you to decide what makes an experience, and you have a whole galaxy of cosmically ageless ideas to choose from. Be creative!'''''

====Experience Is What Matters====
The only time when one Diona is venerated above any other is when a more experienced and therefore more knowledgeable gestalt is present. This more experienced Diona is seen as more valuable due to their vaster stores of knowledge and therefore are protected over less experienced ones in a dangerous situation. A more experienced Diona will often take up the responsibility to educate a new one on their environment- including but not limited to the ways of local alien civilization. This is to simply get the newbie up to speed so they can be quicker on their way to learn more about their particular interests, whatever that may be.
More often than not, the older Diona is the more experienced, however this is not always true as a Diona gestalt may have spent its whole immortal life simply floating in a gas giant until it was scooped up into the fuel tank of a starship.

===Art===
While the species may make incredible artists in civilized space due to their longevity and capacity to learn, another form of visual art exists for Dionae that they practice as a recreational activity known simply as "Forma" and have two versions. Both utilize only their own bodies to make Gestalts in creative and practical ways alike. The first and most popular of the two is the Artem, or Art-Form. These are more for form than function and are used to display a Gestalt's creativity in strange and unique ways. Artem are typically observed being made in the void of space where they are free of the restrictions of gravity and require no rhyme nor reason to their design and exists purely as a hobby.

The second and perhaps most shocking of them is Vita, or Life-Form. Seen most often in some type of environment with gravity, there are two different forms: symbiotic which is done in the presence of other life forms, and competitive, preformed in areas where the concentration of Dionae are high. The symbiotic version is seen every day and is a form of passive mimicry to blend in with their extraterrestrial neighbors whereas the competitive version is a surprising display of violence. One is to increase their chance of survival in an alien landscape, the other used as a strange yet creative form of population control.

Competitive Vita is a theoretical evolution simulator where each Gestalt will merge, often as fantastical forms of creatures, which is then tested with the current environment they are in under different conditions. If present, they will then be tested against other non-sentient life forms before finally each other. Throughout the competition the losing Gestalts are either consumed or absorbed into their forms as additions, the final battle being the most dramatic display of a Gestalt's abilities. While most sapients would find this practice barbaric and contradictory to the species' desire to gain and preserve knowledge, the fallen and their knowledge simply become a part of the victorious.

===In Society===
Dionae are extremely complex, taking up many different types and forms. It is often said that Dionae have a hard time integrating into society, even though they are found in the majority of the nations throughout the galaxy. The largest clusters can be found within the Solarian Alliance, Jargon Federation, and the Republic of Biesel, however, there have been sights of ‘wild’ Dionae on the edges of civilized space. The ‘wild’ Dionae usually are integrated, but some have been hunted down for a unique resource located within them; Ambergris.

Their concept of money is vastly different from other races, considering Dionae only need a little radiation and warmth, both of which can be extracted from sunlight. Many of the gestalts are used often for space-related jobs, including exterior ship repairs and mining thanks to their immunity to the void, as long as there is light nearby. It is sometimes possible to find Dionae have become housemates with other species, paying rent, and doing various menial tasks in exchange for safe shelter.

Dionae have been known to form communes on the outskirts of the major cities, such as Mendell City and Phoenixport. The communes consist of various gestalts unifying to assist the surrounding environment, often beginning small restorative efforts in particular ecologically damaged areas. Many have said without these efforts, the vast majority of the woodlands on Biesel would have fallen years ago.

Details regarding Dionae in each specific nation can be found, here: https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_Relations

====Education====

Although Dionae can contain vast amounts of knowledge and possess extreme intelligence, the species still have to obtain the appropriate degrees for the occupation they wish to pursue in their chosen location of residence. This can be accomplished after being registered for citizenship. All newly-registered Dionae must complete and pass the courses required for their field if their degrees from past planetary systems is not recognized in the new location, or they lack one all together. Their education must be defended one year following the awarding of a degree, and then every five years there on out. However, that timer is reset due to the fact that after each merging, Dionae are required to defend their education along with their re-registration for citizenship due to the possibility of accumulation of new knowledge, and possible loss of information depending on the nature of the new merging.

===Relationships===
As sapient beings Dionae, from nymph to gestalt, are capable of forming platonic relationships with each other and other species. Nymphs and gestalts "merging" is the closest human analogue for a "romantic relationship" with Dionae. Due to the low complexity of nymph emotions and thought, initial merging into a [[Dionae_Forms#Cerberus|Cerberus]] tends to be carried out for practical purposes by all nymphs involved. Likewise, larger forms of Dionae such as [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]]’ and beyond might merge with a single nymph as a symbiotic form of a teacher/growth relationship with the nymph learning from its new gestalt partners and the gestalt itself using the new nymph for grown and biomass.

Due to the complexity of memory and thought, gestalts at [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] size and beyond are a lot more particular when merging with partners of a similar size or above. To merge is to become one mind and body in totality, therefore only those gestalts that truly love and respect each other would carry out the act. It is extremely rare for Dionae gestalts to split over disagreements and more likely for a “troublesome” or sick nymph to be ejected by the mass or a nymph to be temporarily split off to carry out a key task like safe exploration or to get help in a dangerous situation where the whole is in peril. In extreme cases the whole gestalt may break apart to save as many nymphs as possible. This is extremely traumatic, akin to losing yourself and is avoided. It’s a sad fact of life for gestalts from the Titan Prime cluster, most of which would have had to break apart multiple times throughout their lives.

When a gestalt grows beyond the size of a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]], it becomes difficult for these forms to find work within known space and therefore becomes necessary for the gestalt to split temporarily into smaller forms in order to carry out tasks throughout the day. These split forms are often referred to as a “split partner” or “part of me” by the gestalts involved. If pressed, a Dione might describe their split partner as an aspect of their whole which their partner represents; “they are the brave part of me”, “they are the smart part of me” or something similar. Splitting in this way is unpleasant for the gestalt but a necessary evil. Gestalts who split in this manner all suffer from [[Dionae#Psychology_and_Emotions|“splitting anxiety”]] and as such tend to work in close proximity to each other. Though analogous to a close romantic relationship, split Dionae are much closer than this in reality, essentially being aspects of a whole with each gestalt being a personality, memories and thoughts of a singular being, temporarily split apart. The larger the original gestalt the more split forms there could be, therefore it is possible for a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] gestalt to have many split partners.

===Blood Market===
The Blood Market, known as such colloquially, is a relatively private sector of the DNA Market. It operates out of a facility called ‘Bloodworks’ in District Ten, owned by the Blood Buddy Organization. The Market is mostly used by Dionae looking to enhance their skills in a certain field, or simply someone raising a nymph. The Bloodworks currently holds a monopoly over the lucrative trade, charging from 3000CR to 20,000CR for samples large enough for Dionae to learn from.

The ‘Blood Buddy Organization’ was founded by a Diona Argus, Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis, and is a ‘publically’ funded organization spearheaded by various Researchers from the Jargon Federation, Sol Alliance and Republic of Biesel. The company holds various fundraising events, where many skilful participants are noted to donate their blood in order to be sold on the market. The Blood Buddy Organization operates mostly within the Republic of Biesel, but are noted to sell their products to other nations. The largest donor to BBO is Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals, who recently gifted them the facility in District Eleven.

The Blood Market is not free of criminals, however, one particular group stands out more than the rest. The Blood Runners are notorious/renowned for their criminal undertakings, specifically their undercutting of the Blood Buddy Organization. The Blood Runners sell their samples from 1000CR to 10,000CR - leading the BBO to place reward for the arrest of the gang leader, Xia Lu-Qing. They have also been known to dabble in Corporate Espionage, using the Dionae’s ability to extract information from blood samples to their advantage.

==Religion==
The entrance of Dionae into the Orion Spur, alongside the Skrell, has been nothing short of a mystery - allowing many theories to form of their creation, some have even gone as far as to create religions surrounding the species.

===The Eternal===
[[File:Eternal.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Icons.|From left to right: Symbol of the Eternal, symbol of Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, symbol of the Blood Eternal.]]

====Belief====
Followers of '''The Eternal''' believe that a primordial entity exists in Light, Energy and Essence - which the Dionae are the embodiment of.

They believe that the Dionae were made to ensure that all things born from the stars return to stars, eventually. Before they may return the Dionae must devour as much knowledge and biomass as they can, growing exponentially until they reach the mythical Titan form, becoming a star once more. Transcended into a star, the Dionae will emit light and energy until they die, at which point their essence will spread across the void to birth new Dionae. It is in this way that '''the eternal cycle''' is achieved. Scholars of the Eternal link this to the very real potential outcome of Titan form Dionae which theoretically could grow to such mass as to collapse into a star, thus giving off "light and energy" before eventually going supernova and expelling matter or "essence" across the cosmos.

Dionae followers from outside of faction space (deep space or unknown frontier worlds) tend to be forceful in their ‘encouragement’ of other Dionae to join. In times when they have been rejected, they have attacked and consumed in order for the expansion of The Eternal's will. The followers of The Eternal's will that make their home on Biesel however, are much more subdued in their activities. They tend to preach openly, trying to encourage Dionae and non-Dionae to join through words and good deeds, and never by force. Dionae police officers have been known to seek out and catch any extreme followers of the Eternal who attempt to forcefully convert or even “consume” others, the latter of which is, thankfully for everyone and the Dionae community, an extreme rarity in Biesel.
Positronic brains can not yet be absorbed and their memories passed into the “Light”. Eternal followers believe that a positronic entity is like any other, however their memories have to be “viewed” instead of absorbed. Many believe that it’s only a matter of time until a technology is developed to allow positronic entities to be absorbed like any other species.

====Burial and Practice====
All followers of the Eternal regardless of species believe that upon death their body should be preserved and merged with a growing Dionae gestalt as quickly as possible so they might one day return to the stars and continue the eternal cycle. For followers based within Biesel this means to be consumed by "Connected to the Blossoms Beyond", an Argus sized Dionae and leader of the Eternal within Biesel. If this is not possible then absorption by any Dionae gestalt is preferable. Outside of Biesel space, consumption by any large Dionae gestalt is acceptable.

In this way, followers of the Eternal also believe they are preserved within the gestalt as memories and emotions. As long as they are remembered and have been merged, followers of the Eternal believe they live on within the gestalt.

The Eternal faith’s symbols originate as audio frequencies or “songs”. Non Dionae members of the faith have, with guidance from Overseers, “translated” many symbols into a visual format for non-Dionae. Those thoughts, feelings and symbols that are not able to be translated are “sung” to the faithful, with non-Dionae learning to understand and even sing these “symbols'' themselves.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">

'''The Song of the Eternal'''

The song of the symbol representing the Eternal and the faith in general. It sounds like ‘’a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.’’

'''The Song of Energy'''

The song of the symbol representing energy, birth and action. It sounds like ‘’an intense melody building into an aggressive crescendo before abruptly ending.”

'''The Song of Essence'''

The song of the symbol representing essence and strength. It sounds like “a long, strong melody slowly rising to a high note before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Greeting'''

The song of the emotion associated with a pleasant greeting. It sounds like “a brief, colorful melody.”

'''The Song of Light'''

The song of the symbol representing light, wisdom and nourishment. It sounds like “a loud, operatic melody which seems to travel upwards then downwards in pitch before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Love'''

The song of the emotion associated with a both romantic and platonic love. It sounds like “a soft, angelic melody that seems to drift through the air before softly ending.”

'''The Song of Mourning'''

The song of the emotion associated with both mourning the dead and mourning general deep loss. It sounds like “a strong, keening melody which slowly drifts into silence.”

'''In game, these audio symbols can be “sung” using the chat command “!” and copying everything from “a” in the song’s sound description. For example, “!sings a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.”'''
</div></div>
[[File:Eternal_symbols.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Symbols.|The translated symbols of the Eternal from top tp bottom - Light, Energy and Essence.]]
The de facto leadership of the faith is made up of Argus sized and larger gestalts which commune with one another to philosophise about the nature of reality and the faith within it. In the known galaxy the current “head” of the faith is ‘Connected to the Blossoms Beyond’, an Argus gestalt living within the Eternal Temple of Biesel, who communicates with the ancient gestalts in deep space.
Overseers make up the equivalent of the priesthood of the Eternal faith. Overseers work alongside the large Argus gestalts, primarily Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, to relay any important messages to the congregation and largely to act as mentors and trainers, passing on their knowledge to the followers of the Eternal. Most if not all Overseers are experts in other fields, often working in different roles whilst acting as an Overseer so that they might better meet with and pass on messages to the faithful. Most Overseers tend to be Dionae but it is possible for a committed non-Dionae to become one. By virtue of the audio symbology of the Eternal non-Dionae Overseers tend to be good singers. '''On station, an Overseer might work as, say, a medical doctor training other medical staff whilst also acting as an Overseer for the Eternal.'''

====Lexicon====
Key words and phrases of the Eternal which have made their way into Dionae culture on Biesel:

Void - Means nothingness. To be "returned to the void" is negative and implies a being or thing is no longer part of the eternal cycle. It has completely ceased to exist in any form. “The Void comes/calls” or just “The Void” is often said by Dioane and Eternal followers to mean “something bad is going to happen”, “what you are doing is going to have a dangerous outcome for you” or “I don’t like where this is going.”

Young Star - A Dionae who is on the path to becoming a star. This could mean through consumption of biomass but usually implies a scholar who is "absorbing" knowledge. A Dione scientist might be referred to as a "young star".

Eternal Cycle - The Eternal Cycle. Refers to the cycle of life and death.

====The Blood Eternal====
Followed largely by the Viscerabelt cluster and more unsavory, aggressive Dionae. The Blood Eternal is a more violent interpretation of the Eternal, represented by a blood red icon of the Eternal with a bloody maw.

Followers of the Blood Eternal are largely identical to their normal counterparts with one key difference: they prefer the consumption of flesh and blood to gain knowledge unlike regular followers of the Eternal who's pursuit of knowledge is largely based around standard scholarly learning.

Blood Eternal followers tend to decorate their temples with blood and gore as well as perform live sacrifices to the Eternal. An unsavory practice that tends to offend the sensibilities of other species hence their unofficial “banishment” to the belt.

Normal followers of the Eternal tend to view Blood Eternal followers as somewhat illogical due to the fact that they often seem to waste blood in their rituals. Blood Eternal followers believe they're taking the Eternals' teaching to their logical conclusion - to consume everything where possible, disregarding the normal Eternal followers’ criticisms out of hand as “a lack of understanding.” The vast majority of the Blood Eternal followers are still sensible with their consumption - hunting animals, purchasing or at the very worst, stealing blood and flesh.
The Blood Maw is the largest temple in the Viscerabelt and the known galaxy. Essentially a hollow asteroid coated in red, glistening Dioane biomass. The Blood Maw is in the process of constructing its own Dioane communication spire.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Blood Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
'''The Song of Sacrifice'''

The song which represents sacrifice to the Eternal, death and feasting. It sounds like ‘’a bass boosted, howling dirge which ends in a bone rattling crescendo.”
</div></div>

===Dienabi===
[[File:Dienabi.png|thumb|alt=Dienabi Banner.|The Dienabi Banner is a representation of how the followers declare themselves 'The Awakened']]
Dienabi is a relatively forgotten Skrell legend told to many Skrell spawn, however, following the disappearance of Glorsh-Omega it began to no longer be seen as a children’s tale. Followers believed that the Dienabi - a term literally meaning Tree-Child - originated from an omniscient cosmic entity that was called '''Oernabi''' (Tree-God) who governed all of life on Qerrbalak. They were said to be a part of a prophecy, one where they would walk amongst the Skrell after having saved them from a cataclysmic event.

Although Oernabi’s prophecy was merely a children’s tale, it was shortly after the fall of Glorsh-Omega, that the story changed from legend to fact. The discovery of the Conglomerate, a large celestial object created of flora-based physiological beings capable of understanding the Skrell through sacrificial blood, brought many Skrell into a period of great curiosity. Many wondered if Oernabi truly was an all-powerful cosmic entity that had sacrificed themselves in order to defeat Glorsh-Omega.

The prophecy was regarded by many Skrell to have been fulfilled, following the disappearance of '''Glorsh-Omega'''. Oernabi had sacrificed themselves to spare the Skrell, and now would walk amongst the Skrell as they once foretold. It was shortly after the discovery of the Conglomerate that an almost cult-like religion spawned. They revered proclaimed that the Dionae were not discovered accidentally, but that Oernabi had guided them towards Qerrbalak moments before their death. The religion, nicknamed Dienabi, would remain relatively unheard of until the discover of Epsilon Ursae Minor - The Planet of Eden.

[https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_History#Epsilon_Ursae_Minoris_History|Epsilon Ursae Minoris] was said to be rich in untouched wilderness, and after Captain Weirun Tup and their crew had touched down, they discovered a colony of Dionae. Them and their team remained for the duration of their expedition to learn more about the planet and it's inhabitants, finding that the Dionae had a vast wealth of information stored in their collective memories. Captain Weirun Tup, a recent follower of Dienabi, would often accompany the Dionae in order to explore their faith more deeply and the Dionae had one condition; Any who remained were to follow the Dionae's example and were to leave the landscape undisturbed for the most part.

When it was time for the crew to depart, the Jargon Federation had wished for a permanent ambassador to be implemented to ensure smooth relations between the Diona and the Federation. Captain Weirun Tup, a follower of Dienabi, immediately volunteered to step down from their position as Captain and remain behind, thus beginning their journey to write what is now considered the most sacred document to the Dienabi followers, '''The Deathflower Journal'''. The Deathflower Journal is best described as a manifesto by other followers, who use it whilst meditating. The Deathflower Journal contains various personal discoveries and notes.

Director Weirun Tup remained on Epsilon Ursae Minoris for another nine years before disappearing mysteriously one night, where the following morning many Dionae returned their personal items and stated that the Director was now with them. This had raised a few red flags amongst the research team, however, when it was revealed that the Dionae had retained their memories it went from suspicion to heightened curiosity. The Director was venerated by other followers of Dienabi as the first to have truly ascended and become a part of something greater, and it is said that one can still speak to the Director through a Gestalt that remains with the Skrellian settlement and since then, many followers of Dienabi often will undertake a pilgrimage to and from Epsilon Ursae Minoris - others choosing it as their final resting place through "reincarnation", following Director Weirun Tup's example and becoming a part of the Ascended. Followers call themselves '''‘The Awakened’''' and those who do not follow '''“The Dormant”'''. Dienabi is considered a minority compared to other faiths within the Jargon Federation.

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Dionae

2020-10-02T16:23:33Z

Zundy: /* Social */ adding Dionae Farming

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<center>[[File:DionaeMainpage.png|The cold, desolate void of space, the only home Dionae have always known.|link=]]</center>

==Overview==
Enigmatic witnesses to various events through the centuries, the Dionae are an inquisitive species with a pacifistic disposition after gaining sentience. Their origins, behaviour and functions are never alike - with each being as unique as the next. The Dionae are capable of great intellectual, biological and physical feats going above and beyond what was considered possible for millennia. Dionae are similar to both plant and animal, however, they primarily survive off of the electromagnetic spectrum coinciding with a diet of biological matter to supplement their growth. Their lack of ability to adapt to lack of radiation can lead to death, if not exposed to at least efficient lighting. Dionae have been seen across the Orion Spur, each with a unique [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_History#History history] and [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_Clusters personality].

{{Infobox Diona
|Species = Dionae
|Scientific = D. Primis
|Image = Dionae410x320.png
|Language = Rootsong
|Factions = [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Notable_Dionae_Factions Mult.]
|Location = [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Notable_Dionae_Systems_and_Locations Mult.]
}}
{{toc_right}}
==Occupational==
Dionae can explore numerous employment opportunities, even that of Command Staff in the ranks of NanoTrasen. Although they are limited, Dionae '''''can''''' be found as [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Research_Director Research Directors], [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Chief_Engineer Chief Engineers] and [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Chief_Medical_Officer Chief Medical Officers]. They, however, '''''cannot''''' be Emergency Medical Technicians nor Paramedics due to their severe slowness, risking the life of the patient.

==Mechanics==

*Access to the species' unique language, Rootsong with,q prefix.
*Lives off of light and radiation, dies without either for a long period of time.
*Heals damage while in light or radiation.
*Heals from radiation chemicals, gains damage from anti-radiation and weedkillers.
*Not affected by lack of atmosphere or pressure.
*Moves slower than most other species, even slower when in darkness. Speed increases when in good light or irradiated.
*Can split a nymph from their gestalt and control it. Can also switch between the split nymph and original gestalt at will.
*Can split completely into several nymphs, as well as reform into a gestalt with enough biomass.
*Can regrow limbs with enough nutrients and while exposed to light or radiation, faster with radiation.
*Can *chirp and *chirp_song.
*Can devour certain creatures by grabbing them, aiming for the mouth, and clicking yourself.
*Can use the Create Structure verb to form their biological mass into a wall, floor, or glowing bulb.

==Biology==
Biology is the natural science that studies life and living organisms, including their physical structure, chemical processes, molecular interactions, physiological mechanisms, development and evolution. The Dionae, by virtue of being a unique lifeform, features an anatomy seen almost nowhere else, and a variation in colour and texture that comes from different experiences in life. Each Dionae is unique to the next, none being alike.

===Physiology===
Dionae come in a myriad of [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_Forms forms], all different in terms of their sizes. Nymphs are highly adaptable and are capable of living in various environments deemed uninhabitable for other species. Their worm-like appearance that many are familiar with is shaped by many tough tendrils, beneath the large, singular eye, near which two long, thinner tendrils act as delicate sensory organs. These tendrils tightly wrap themselves around the body to cocoon it in a thick, protective layer, using six thick, shorter tendrils for locomotion. The most common sighted form of Dionae is a Cyclops, which is a four-limbed bipedal created by the fusion of several nymphs. Merging consists of wrapping or forming a symbiotic relationship with other Nymphs, and as the tendrils constrict they harden to almost stone - which further allows them to support the rest of the gestalt.

Nymphs that form the bipedal body typically use the standard construct of two arms, two legs and a central abdomen from which these sprout from. They are all connected to the top Nymph, who is usually the most vocal but also more commonly the one with the most experiences. Whilst merged, each Nymph surprisingly manages to keep their sense of self and individuality as they share their thoughts and communicate with one another as separate entities while acting as one.

Dionae have also been known to form organs to assist in adapting to new environments. Typically they form Neural Stratas, Gas Bladders, Polyp Segments and Anchoring Ligaments. Neural Stratas are considered the ‘arteries’ of a Dionae - linking each Nymph to one another directly. It is said the Neural Strata is one of the first organs formed, and is considered the flow of information between each nymph, and severing it unexpectedly can force Dionae to go catatonic.

Gas Bladders are small pouches of growth, similar to a human lung, that allows gaseous exchange to occur - mostly being in that it turns only large amounts of various gases to use for biomass growth. Polyp Segments are one of the last organs to form - mostly along the Dionae’s Gas Bladder - but also the most likely to get infected. When infected, the Polyp Segments secrete large amounts of mucous which then is dispelled by the top nymph, which then goes on to infect more. Polyp infections are considered extremely dangerous to Dionae, and entire gestalts can perish as it spreads throughout them.
Anchoring Ligaments are some of the last organs to form, and generally are formed on the ‘legs’ of a Dionae, which in turn assist in balancing. The ligaments can get inflamed, which is normally treated with various periods of rest. The condition is only noted in gestalts over a century old.

===Self Preservation===
Dionae feel pain uniquely. When damage is inflicted upon a certain part of a gestalt, it would be incredibly painful for the nymphs affected and so they cry out in pain, however, it would be an intense throbbing to the other members of the gestalt. Discomfort would originate from the injured section across to the entirety of the gestalt.

Dionae also have a sense of fear, however, mostly related to that of losing experiences due to splitting. Splitting is the act of a gestalt fracturing due to continuously sustained damage, and is to be avoided. They would inherently fear environments deemed dangerous, as the risk of losing experiences is akin to that of death.

Although physiologically plant-based, Dionae behaviour is more animal than plant. Radiation, specifically in the form of light, is extremely vital to Dionae, and without it will begin to wither. Dionae have three innate behaviours throughout their lifespan, no matter what samples are collected. Dionae see light as their main priority, and environments without such are deemed hazardous and are to be avoided at all costs, at risk of losing memories and knowledge.

===Nymph Splitting===
A Dionae Gestalt can split a nymph from itself and move semi-independently. This process is done by the two '''“singing”''' to each other on a frequency only they can understand. Since individual nymphs hold individual experiences, removing a nymph from a gestalt will cause minor amnesia while they're apart. This can mean that the gestalt might forget languages or ideas on nymph separation until the nymph returns to the physical body.

To best explain the idea, the Dionae philosophers in The Overgrowth of Xrim cluster describe the feeling as ... '''''"Thoughts are liquid, winding as a river does. When the river splits, they are different beings with different experiences. When they return to each other, they share both experiences of both paths."'''''

===Metabolism===
Dionae are capable of taking just about any matter from their surroundings and able to metabolize it into nutrition for themselves, being opportunistic feeders. Soil, fluids, biological matter, even particles from the air- biomatter being the most beneficial in the form of matter-to-energy conversion. If something is consumed and cannot be digested, the material is ejected through the process of regurgitation as the species appear to only have one orifice, their rather effective digestive system not producing waste, unlike most other organics. However, their main source of energy comes from the electromagnetic spectrum in the form of radiation, the most common being ultraviolet. While they can go without nutritious matter, being in the presence of radiation- ultraviolet being the minimum tolerated- is a necessity at all times. Without it, Dionae are soon to wither, enter a comatose state, and shortly die within the span of a few hours. A powerful source of radiation is highly beneficial to the species, and when provided biomatter can heal themselves at an accelerated rate; reproduction and growth is also done in exponentially short periods in such perfect conditions.

This comes at a great cost -- Their metabolism, while an incredible feat of Biology, is coupled with the Nymph undergoing a process which forces them to be almost sedentary. Their speed and activity decreasing as they age - with many becoming completely unable to move after a few centuries due to increasing weight, formation of thorns and hardening of joints after which they are often forced to root into a greater gestalt at this point, or risk slowing the younger Nymphs that they merge with to a halt and in the worst cases being left to die in relative isolation.

Means of neutralizing energy found on the electromagnetic spectrum would be disorienting to Dionae, but because they have evolved with radiation as their primary form of sustenance and must be exposed to the energy source at all times, substances that neutralize it, in particular, are toxic to the species.

=== Reproduction ===
Dionae follow an asexual reproduction cycle, similarly observed in plants. Gestalts will release a plume of seeds approximately once every ten years, typically after having travelled to their place of origin (similarly to Salmon). The reasoning for such is to best ensure that experiences occur, as many cite their best experiences come from their origin point, however, If it is either impossible to return to such a point, or it is simply wished to spread their seeds elsewhere, many Dionae will attempt to find environments that are optimal for pod growth.

Xenobotanists have noted that the spores released from Dionae are configured to be capable of spreading via solar winds - and many study the journey of it, allowing for solar wind trails to be noted and investigated. This has also led to various clusters to form far from civilised corners of the known universe. It is also believed that the spores are capable of surviving atmospheric entry thanks to a hardened form of ambergris covering the seed, which becomes fertilizer within the soil after germination occurs.

When the seeds reach a location (preferably optimal) they sink themselves within the ground, many have noted once they have rooted themselves it becomes increasingly more hard to remove them. The Dionae seed then begins to germinate and develops into a Diona Replicant Pod - which is, in essence, a Diona egg. The pod then absorbs much of the nutrients surrounding itself, but also feeds on the ambergris coating that had once upon a time protected it.

In optimal condition, a pod can grow relatively quickly - however, should required nutrients not be available the pod enters a state of hibernation until such nutrients are provided. It can sometimes take centuries for a pod to fully develop. Pods grown without Ambergris tend to find the nymphs produced to wither soon after being disgorged.
== Social ==

===Language===
These cryptic creatures are capable of comprehending hundreds of languages if exposed to the correct amount of genes, however, their physical limitations restrict them to only being able to speak a handful. The typical Dionae will likely speak Tau Ceti Basic and Rootsong - but can emulate other languages such as Freespeak and Tradeband, albeit slowly to annunciate the words correctly. [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Unathi Sinta'Unathi] is also amongst the languages easily emulated, but Dionae will tend to fall flat when speaking Siik'Maas as the translation is sometimes lost due to their inability to do imitate the same gestures as the [https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Tajara Tajaran].

====Rootsong====
Their language, named "Rootsong" (as translated), uses various limbs and membranes to imitate what most would see as "natural" sounds - leaves whisking in the wind, branches rubbing - and even some instrumental sounds, at times (flute-like sounds and drumming being common). However, to those who can discern it - Rootsong is a true orchestra of language. Syntax and grammar are simply part of the song, reflected in tempo and beats, while emotions are conveyed through pitch and the imitation of weather effects, such as wind and moisture. Most interestingly - the sound itself is only a byproduct of their body structure, as some humans have successfully learned Rootsong (without the emotional intonations) through violin and calliope organs. Xenohistorians often use the Rootsong as evidence that the Dionae evolved in conditions involving an atmosphere.

===Communication===
While Dionae gestalts can utilize a myriad of ways to communicate with other lifeforms, the majority will speak either slowly, pausing between some words, or speak quickly, extending their words.

Dionae who speak slowly will generally only use one nymph to communicate, having to pause to decide amongst the gestalt what to say next (an example being “We… are a… dionae”). These Dionae will generally be much older and contain a larger amount of nymphs in their gestalt. The speaker in this instance is usually seen as an elected leader, trusted to speak only what the gestalt agrees upon.

Dionae who speak quickly are generally using multiple nymphs to communicate, their words seemingly extending as multiple are speaking (an example being “Wee aarre aa dioonaee.”). These dionae will generally be much younger and contain a small number of nymphs in their gestalt. A majority of the nymphs will speak at once, rather than just utilize one nymph. The nymphs will still generally agree upon what to say, sometimes causing pauses similar to the other method.

'''Note that while these two methods are generally the way dionae will communicate, it does not mean the only ways they will. You're free to make up your own ways and reasons. You’re free to contact the Dionae loredev team with questions'''

===Psychology and Emotions===
Dionae differ incredibly to other species in terms of their emotions and psychology; primarily in how it affects each nymph and how it would be displayed in a gestalt. Dionae feel a myriad of diverging reactions to certain issues - which is what set them apart from others. When a Nymph first becomes sentient, and the ability to grasp more intricate and complicated ideas becomes easier, there is a rare chance for complications to arise which are deemed ‘Cognitive Obstacles’ and can easily be seen as mental disorders.

‘Cognitive Obstacles’ parallel mental illnesses that frequently find themselves rooted within other species across the Orion Spur. These ‘Cognitive Obstacles’ affect Dionae uniquely in the sense that each nymph can experience these differently to another. Dionae can form ‘Cognitive Obstacles’ similar to that of PTSD, Anxiety and Tourettes. It can be expected that Dionae that fall into this category of ‘Cognitive Obstacles’ will have bursts of unintended chirps, additionally coinciding with spasms. Some have noted that they have intense bouts of paranoia, and periods where they will experience an existential crisis.

Dionae can also form ‘Cognitive Obstacles’ similar to that of various depressive disorders. These are often seen as a mortal danger - where if an individual nymph begins to feel symptoms similar to the depressive disorders, such as intense periods of feeling impending doom or simply feeling lifeless, will eventually spread these thoughts through a gestalt which will eventually perish. Nymphs that are deemed ‘a hazard to the entire gestalt’ are cast and left to find treatment or will perish if they do not.

Splitting Disorder is a temporary disorder which occurs in gestalts that have split off into smaller forms, usually for work purposes (an Argus splitting into Cyclops forms to work in an office). The disorder is characterised by increased anxiety within the Dionae at being apart from each other and an intense fear that harm might befall one of the split forms, getting worse the longer the gestalt is split. This fear of danger varies for gestalt to gestalt, with some split forms being “braver” than others. Splitting Disorder can temporarily be relieved by brief re-merging via physical contact. This usually appears to other species as close hugs or hand-holding followed by happy chirping of the nymphs within the gestalt. It can be permanently cured by a full re-merging or after a long period of separation through long periods of separation can instead turn into a Depressive Disorder. The death or injury of a split partner tends to be extremely traumatising for the other partners, with the level and manner of the trauma dependent on each nymph, with some being “braver” than others.

===Dionae Farming===
Whilst killing and consuming a Dionae nymph is illegal in most systems, the preparation and consumption of still born malformed nymphs grown without ambergris is not. Consequently Dionae Cookery, though very specialised, is a popular culinary study in modern gastronomy. A versatile plant "meat", Dionae can be cooking into stews, roasts, soups and cold cuts. Dried Dionae can also been ground into a powder and added to other dishes as a lively but delicious condiment. Cooked Dionae flesh has a slightly tart but meaty, succulent flavor and is very high in protein. Similar to the fugu fish, Dionae requires special preparation during and after cooking. Dionae gestalts themselves are divided on the issue of nymph consumption, with opinions ranging from total acceptance and even taking part in the practice to abhorrence depending on their own experiences and upbringing.

==Out-of-Character Information==
With so much confusion on the Dionae, and the mysteries behind them, we've gone ahead and created a page dedicated to helping you! Of course, you can contact the Dionae team on discord for any additional questions.

It can be found at the [[Dionae Out-Of-Character]] page.
[[Category:Pages]]
[[Category:Lore]]
[[Category:Species]]
[[Category:Dionaea]]

User:Zundy/Sandbox

2020-09-30T10:24:15Z

Zundy: /* Ambergris */

=== Reproduction ===
Dionae follow an asexual reproduction cycle, similarly observed in plants. Gestalts will release a plume of seeds approximately once every ten years, typically after having travelled to their place of origin (similarly to Salmon). The reasoning for such is to best ensure that experiences occur, as many cite their best experiences come from their origin point, however, If it is either impossible to return to such a point, or it is simply wished to spread their seeds elsewhere, many Dionae will attempt to find environments that are optimal for pod growth.

Xenobotanists have noted that the spores released from Dionae are configured to be capable of spreading via solar winds - and many study the journey of it, allowing for solar wind trails to be noted and investigated. This has also led to various clusters to form far from civilised corners of the known universe. It is also believed that the spores are capable of surviving atmospheric entry thanks to a hardened form of ambergris covering the seed, which becomes fertilizer within the soil after germination occurs.

When the seeds reach a location (preferably optimal) they sink themselves within the ground, many have noted once they have rooted themselves it becomes increasingly more hard to remove them. The Dionae seed then begins to germinate and develops into a Diona Replicant Pod - which is, in essence, a Diona egg. The pod then absorbs much of the nutrients surrounding itself, but also feeds on the ambergris coating that had once upon a time protected it.

In optimal condition, a pod can grow relatively quickly - however, should required nutrients not be available the pod enters a state of hibernation until such nutrients are provided. It can sometimes take centuries for a pod to fully develop. Pods grown without Ambergris tend to find the nymphs produced to wither soon after being disgorged.

=== Ambergris ===

The ‘wild’ Dionae usually are integrated, but some have been hunted down for a unique resource located within them; Ambergris.

The Skrell Prospectors were originally sent to Xelp III to locate minerals that would be used for the reconstruction of Qerrbalak, but instead stumbled upon unique mineral surrounded by organic weeds, this mineral was later found to be Ambergris, leading to the ‘Ambergris Rush’ of the 2220s, where hundreds if not thousands of Skrell dedicated their time and energy to searching for more of this rare mineral. The rush would last until 2232 CE - when Skrell Prospectors could no longer locate Ambergris. It is suspected that during this period the Skrell had slaughtered what is now known as an Echion Colossus.

These "Wild Ones" are not legally allowed to be killed in Sol Alliance and Jargon Federation space unless they pose significant threat - but Frontier laws vary depending on system. Poachers will hunt these "Wild Ones" for 'ambergris', a solid amber-like substance that builds up in the center of larger Diona gestalts that is used as a luxury topping and spice when shaved onto meals.

User:Zundy/Sandbox

2020-09-30T10:21:21Z

Zundy:

User:Zundy/Sandbox

2020-09-30T10:20:52Z

Zundy:

User talk:Zundy

2020-09-30T10:16:13Z

Zundy: Blanked the page

Dionae Culture

2020-08-21T06:56:58Z

Zundy: /* Religion */ updated the Eternal religion

{{Navbox Lore}}
{{Navbox_Dionae_Lore}}

==Culture==
Due to their highly nomadic nature, Dionae do not experience a universal culture outside of certain behaviours that appear to be biologically ingrained and somehow hard-wired into their genetics. Information on individual group cultures can be found in https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_History

===Naming===
Dionae naming conventions vary heavily based on gestalt, but have one consistency; They do not go by first name, last name, but instead use '''experiences, emotions, actions,''' or '''ideals''' as their source of identification. These experiences that define them can change just as the individual changes, and can be both literal and metaphorical. Some examples of where these might come from can be from routines in their lives, remembrances of mortals, a particular fascination in an emotion, a unique location where an important moment occurred, or even just a defining feature on their body. '''''As a player, it is up to you to decide what makes an experience, and you have a whole galaxy of cosmically ageless ideas to choose from. Be creative!'''''

====Experience Is What Matters====
The only time when one Diona is venerated above any other is when a more experienced and therefore more knowledgeable gestalt is present. This more experienced Diona is seen as more valuable due to their vaster stores of knowledge and therefore are protected over less experienced ones in a dangerous situation. A more experienced Diona will often take up the responsibility to educate a new one on their environment- including but not limited to the ways of local alien civilization. This is to simply get the newbie up to speed so they can be quicker on their way to learn more about their particular interests, whatever that may be.
More often than not, the older Diona is the more experienced, however this is not always true as a Diona gestalt may have spent its whole immortal life simply floating in a gas giant until it was scooped up into the fuel tank of a starship.

===Art===
While the species may make incredible artists in civilized space due to their longevity and capacity to learn, another form of visual art exists for Dionae that they practice as a recreational activity known simply as "Forma" and have two versions. Both utilize only their own bodies to make Gestalts in creative and practical ways alike. The first and most popular of the two is the Artem, or Art-Form. These are more for form than function and are used to display a Gestalt's creativity in strange and unique ways. Artem are typically observed being made in the void of space where they are free of the restrictions of gravity and require no rhyme nor reason to their design and exists purely as a hobby.

The second and perhaps most shocking of them is Vita, or Life-Form. Seen most often in some type of environment with gravity, there are two different forms: symbiotic which is done in the presence of other life forms, and competitive, preformed in areas where the concentration of Dionae are high. The symbiotic version is seen every day and is a form of passive mimicry to blend in with their extraterrestrial neighbors whereas the competitive version is a surprising display of violence. One is to increase their chance of survival in an alien landscape, the other used as a strange yet creative form of population control.

Competitive Vita is a theoretical evolution simulator where each Gestalt will merge, often as fantastical forms of creatures, which is then tested with the current environment they are in under different conditions. If present, they will then be tested against other non-sentient life forms before finally each other. Throughout the competition the losing Gestalts are either consumed or absorbed into their forms as additions, the final battle being the most dramatic display of a Gestalt's abilities. While most sapients would find this practice barbaric and contradictory to the species' desire to gain and preserve knowledge, the fallen and their knowledge simply become a part of the victorious.

===In Society===
Dionae are extremely complex, taking up many different types and forms. It is often said that Dionae have a hard time integrating into society, even though they are found in the majority of the nations throughout the galaxy. The largest clusters can be found within the Solarian Alliance, Jargon Federation, and the Republic of Biesel, however, there have been sights of ‘wild’ Dionae on the edges of civilized space. The ‘wild’ Dionae usually are integrated, but some have been hunted down for a unique resource located within them; Ambergris.

Their concept of money is vastly different from other races, considering Dionae only need a little radiation and warmth, both of which can be extracted from sunlight. Many of the gestalts are used often for space-related jobs, including exterior ship repairs and mining thanks to their immunity to the void, as long as there is light nearby. It is sometimes possible to find Dionae have become housemates with other species, paying rent, and doing various menial tasks in exchange for safe shelter.

Dionae have been known to form communes on the outskirts of the major cities, such as Mendell City and Phoenixport. The communes consist of various gestalts unifying to assist the surrounding environment, often beginning small restorative efforts in particular ecologically damaged areas. Many have said without these efforts, the vast majority of the woodlands on Biesel would have fallen years ago.

Details regarding Dionae in each specific nation can be found, here: https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_Relations

====Education====

Although Dionae can contain vast amounts of knowledge and possess extreme intelligence, the species still have to obtain the appropriate degrees for the occupation they wish to pursue in their chosen location of residence. This can be accomplished after being registered for citizenship. All newly-registered Dionae must complete and pass the courses required for their field if their degrees from past planetary systems is not recognized in the new location, or they lack one all together. Their education must be defended one year following the awarding of a degree, and then every five years there on out. However, that timer is reset due to the fact that after each merging, Dionae are required to defend their education along with their re-registration for citizenship due to the possibility of accumulation of new knowledge, and possible loss of information depending on the nature of the new merging.

===Relationships===
As sapient beings Dionae, from nymph to gestalt, are capable of forming platonic relationships with each other and other species. Nymphs and gestalts "merging" is the closest human analogue for a "romantic relationship" with Dionae. Due to the low complexity of nymph emotions and thought, initial merging into a [[Dionae_Forms#Cerberus|Cerberus]] tends to be carried out for practical purposes by all nymphs involved. Likewise, larger forms of Dionae such as [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]]’ and beyond might merge with a single nymph as a symbiotic form of a teacher/growth relationship with the nymph learning from its new gestalt partners and the gestalt itself using the new nymph for grown and biomass.

Due to the complexity of memory and thought, gestalts at [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] size and beyond are a lot more particular when merging with partners of a similar size or above. To merge is to become one mind and body in totality, therefore only those gestalts that truly love and respect each other would carry out the act. It is extremely rare for Dionae gestalts to split over disagreements and more likely for a “troublesome” or sick nymph to be ejected by the mass or a nymph to be temporarily split off to carry out a key task like safe exploration or to get help in a dangerous situation where the whole is in peril. In extreme cases the whole gestalt may break apart to save as many nymphs as possible. This is extremely traumatic, akin to losing yourself and is avoided. It’s a sad fact of life for gestalts from the Titan Prime cluster, most of which would have had to break apart multiple times throughout their lives.

When a gestalt grows beyond the size of a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]], it becomes difficult for these forms to find work within known space and therefore becomes necessary for the gestalt to split temporarily into smaller forms in order to carry out tasks throughout the day. These split forms are often referred to as a “split partner” or “part of me” by the gestalts involved. If pressed, a Dione might describe their split partner as an aspect of their whole which their partner represents; “they are the brave part of me”, “they are the smart part of me” or something similar. Splitting in this way is unpleasant for the gestalt but a necessary evil. Gestalts who split in this manner all suffer from [[Dionae#Psychology_and_Emotions|“splitting anxiety”]] and as such tend to work in close proximity to each other. Though analogous to a close romantic relationship, split Dionae are much closer than this in reality, essentially being aspects of a whole with each gestalt being a personality, memories and thoughts of a singular being, temporarily split apart. The larger the original gestalt the more split forms there could be, therefore it is possible for a [[Dionae_Forms#Cyclops|Cyclops]] gestalt to have many split partners.

===Blood Market===
The Blood Market, known as such colloquially, is a relatively private sector of the DNA Market. It operates out of a facility called ‘Bloodworks’ in District Ten, owned by the Blood Buddy Organization. The Market is mostly used by Dionae looking to enhance their skills in a certain field, or simply someone raising a nymph. The Bloodworks currently holds a monopoly over the lucrative trade, charging from 3000CR to 20,000CR for samples large enough for Dionae to learn from.

The ‘Blood Buddy Organization’ was founded by a Diona Argus, Rationing Knowledge of Embodied Sanguis, and is a ‘publically’ funded organization spearheaded by various Researchers from the Jargon Federation, Sol Alliance and Republic of Biesel. The company holds various fundraising events, where many skilful participants are noted to donate their blood in order to be sold on the market. The Blood Buddy Organization operates mostly within the Republic of Biesel, but are noted to sell their products to other nations. The largest donor to BBO is Zeng-Hu Pharmaceuticals, who recently gifted them the facility in District Eleven.

The Blood Market is not free of criminals, however, one particular group stands out more than the rest. The Blood Runners are notorious/renowned for their criminal undertakings, specifically their undercutting of the Blood Buddy Organization. The Blood Runners sell their samples from 1000CR to 10,000CR - leading the BBO to place reward for the arrest of the gang leader, Xia Lu-Qing. They have also been known to dabble in Corporate Espionage, using the Dionae’s ability to extract information from blood samples to their advantage.

==Religion==
The entrance of Dionae into the Orion Spur, alongside the Skrell, has been nothing short of a mystery - allowing many theories to form of their creation, some have even gone as far as to create religions surrounding the species.

===The Eternal===
[[File:Eternal.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Icons.|From left to right: Symbol of the Eternal, symbol of Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, symbol of the Blood Eternal.]]

====Belief====
Followers of '''The Eternal''' believe that a primordial entity exists in Light, Energy and Essence - which the Dionae are the embodiment of.

They believe that the Dionae were made to ensure that all things born from the stars return to stars, eventually. Before they may return the Dionae must devour as much knowledge and biomass as they can, growing exponentially until they reach the mythical Titan form, becoming a star once more. Transcended into a star, the Dionae will emit light and energy until they die, at which point their essence will spread across the void to birth new Dionae. It is in this way that '''the eternal cycle''' is achieved. Scholars of the Eternal link this to the very real potential outcome of Titan form Dionae which theoretically could grow to such mass as to collapse into a star, thus giving off "light and energy" before eventually going supernova and expelling matter or "essence" across the cosmos.

Dionae followers from outside of faction space (deep space or unknown frontier worlds) tend to be forceful in their ‘encouragement’ of other Dionae to join. In times when they have been rejected, they have attacked and consumed in order for the expansion of The Eternal's will. The followers of The Eternal's will that make their home on Biesel however, are much more subdued in their activities. They tend to preach openly, trying to encourage Dionae and non-Dionae to join through words and good deeds, and never by force. Dionae police officers have been known to seek out and catch any extreme followers of the Eternal who attempt to forcefully convert or even “consume” others, the latter of which is, thankfully for everyone and the Dionae community, an extreme rarity in Biesel.
Positronic brains can not yet be absorbed and their memories passed into the “Light”. Eternal followers believe that a positronic entity is like any other, however their memories have to be “viewed” instead of absorbed. Many believe that it’s only a matter of time until a technology is developed to allow positronic entities to be absorbed like any other species.

====Burial and Practice====
All followers of the Eternal regardless of species believe that upon death their body should be preserved and merged with a growing Dionae gestalt as quickly as possible so they might one day return to the stars and continue the eternal cycle. For followers based within Biesel this means to be consumed by "Connected to the Blossoms Beyond", an Argus sized Dionae and leader of the Eternal within Biesel. If this is not possible then absorption by any Dionae gestalt is preferable. Outside of Biesel space, consumption by any large Dionae gestalt is acceptable.

In this way, followers of the Eternal also believe they are preserved within the gestalt as memories and emotions. As long as they are remembered and have been merged, followers of the Eternal believe they live on within the gestalt.

The Eternal faith’s symbols originate as audio frequencies or “songs”. Non Dionae members of the faith have, with guidance from Overseers, “translated” many symbols into a visual format for non-Dionae. Those thoughts, feelings and symbols that are not able to be translated are “sung” to the faithful, with non-Dionae learning to understand and even sing these “symbols'' themselves.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">

'''The Song of the Eternal'''

The song of the symbol representing the Eternal and the faith in general. It sounds like ‘’a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.’’

'''The Song of Energy'''

The song of the symbol representing energy, birth and action. It sounds like ‘’an intense melody building into an aggressive crescendo before abruptly ending.”

'''The Song of Essence'''

The song of the symbol representing essence and strength. It sounds like “a long, strong melody slowly rising to a high note before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Greeting'''

The song of the emotion associated with a pleasant greeting. It sounds like “a brief, colorful melody.”

'''The Song of Light'''

The song of the symbol representing light, wisdom and nourishment. It sounds like “a loud, operatic melody which seems to travel upwards then downwards in pitch before softly drifting away.”

'''The Song of Love'''

The song of the emotion associated with a both romantic and platonic love. It sounds like “a soft, angelic melody that seems to drift through the air before softly ending.”

'''The Song of Mourning'''

The song of the emotion associated with both mourning the dead and mourning general deep loss. It sounds like “a strong, keening melody which slowly drifts into silence.”

'''In game, these audio symbols can be “sung” using the chat command “!” and copying everything from “a” in the song’s sound description. For example, “!sings a soft, intoxicating melody which rises to an emotional crescendo before softly drifting away.”'''
</div></div>
[[File:Eternal_symbols.png|thumb|alt=Eternal Symbols.|The translated symbols of the Eternal Light, Energy and Essence.]]
The de facto leadership of the faith is made up of Argus sized and larger gestalts which commune with one another to philosophise about the nature of reality and the faith within it. In the known galaxy the current “head” of the faith is ‘Connected to the Blossoms Beyond’, an Argus gestalt living within the Eternal Temple of Biesel, who communicates with the ancient gestalts in deep space.
Overseers make up the equivalent of the priesthood of the Eternal faith. Overseers work alongside the large Argus gestalts, primarily Connected to the Blossoms Beyond, to relay any important messages to the congregation and largely to act as mentors and trainers, passing on their knowledge to the followers of the Eternal. Most if not all Overseers are experts in other fields, often working in different roles whilst acting as an Overseer so that they might better meet with and pass on messages to the faithful. Most Overseers tend to be Dionae but it is possible for a committed non-Dionae to become one. By virtue of the audio symbology of the Eternal non-Dionae Overseers tend to be good singers. '''On station, an Overseer might work as, say, a medical doctor training other medical staff whilst also acting as an Overseer for the Eternal.'''

====Lexicon====
Key words and phrases of the Eternal which have made their way into Dionae culture on Biesel:

Void - Means nothingness. To be "returned to the void" is negative and implies a being or thing is no longer part of the eternal cycle. It has completely ceased to exist in any form. “The Void comes/calls” or just “The Void” is often said by Dioane and Eternal followers to mean “something bad is going to happen”, “what you are doing is going to have a dangerous outcome for you” or “I don’t like where this is going.”

Young Star - A Dionae who is on the path to becoming a star. This could mean through consumption of biomass but usually implies a scholar who is "absorbing" knowledge. A Dione scientist might be referred to as a "young star".

Eternal Cycle - The Eternal Cycle. Refers to the cycle of life and death.

====The Blood Eternal====
Followed largely by the Viscerabelt cluster and more unsavory, aggressive Dionae. The Blood Eternal is a more violent interpretation of the Eternal, represented by a blood red icon of the Eternal with a bloody maw.

Followers of the Blood Eternal are largely identical to their normal counterparts with one key difference: they prefer the consumption of flesh and blood to gain knowledge unlike regular followers of the Eternal who's pursuit of knowledge is largely based around standard scholarly learning.

Blood Eternal followers tend to decorate their temples with blood and gore as well as perform live sacrifices to the Eternal. An unsavory practice that tends to offend the sensibilities of other species hence their unofficial “banishment” to the belt.

Normal followers of the Eternal tend to view Blood Eternal followers as somewhat illogical due to the fact that they often seem to waste blood in their rituals. Blood Eternal followers believe they're taking the Eternals' teaching to their logical conclusion - to consume everything where possible, disregarding the normal Eternal followers’ criticisms out of hand as “a lack of understanding.” The vast majority of the Blood Eternal followers are still sensible with their consumption - hunting animals, purchasing or at the very worst, stealing blood and flesh.
The Blood Maw is the largest temple in the Viscerabelt and the known galaxy. Essentially a hollow asteroid coated in red, glistening Dioane biomass. The Blood Maw is in the process of constructing its own Dioane communication spire.
<div class="toccolours mw-collapsible mw-collapsed" style="width:99%; overflow:auto;">
Key "songs" of the Blood Eternal:
<div class="mw-collapsible-content">
'''The Song of Sacrifice'''

The song which represents sacrifice to the Eternal, death and feasting. It sounds like ‘’a bass boosted, howling dirge which ends in a bone rattling crescendo.”
</div></div>

===Dienabi===
[[File:Dienabi.png|thumb|alt=Dienabi Banner.|The Dienabi Banner is a representation of how the followers declare themselves 'The Awakened']]
Dienabi is a relatively forgotten Skrell legend told to many Skrell spawn, however, following the disappearance of Glorsh-Omega it began to no longer be seen as a children’s tale. Followers believed that the Dienabi - a term literally meaning Tree-Child - originated from an omniscient cosmic entity that was called '''Oernabi''' (Tree-God) who governed all of life on Qerrbalak. They were said to be a part of a prophecy, one where they would walk amongst the Skrell after having saved them from a cataclysmic event.

Although Oernabi’s prophecy was merely a children’s tale, it was shortly after the fall of Glorsh-Omega, that the story changed from legend to fact. The discovery of the Conglomerate, a large celestial object created of flora-based physiological beings capable of understanding the Skrell through sacrificial blood, brought many Skrell into a period of great curiosity. Many wondered if Oernabi truly was an all-powerful cosmic entity that had sacrificed themselves in order to defeat Glorsh-Omega.

The prophecy was regarded by many Skrell to have been fulfilled, following the disappearance of '''Glorsh-Omega'''. Oernabi had sacrificed themselves to spare the Skrell, and now would walk amongst the Skrell as they once foretold. It was shortly after the discovery of the Conglomerate that an almost cult-like religion spawned. They revered proclaimed that the Dionae were not discovered accidentally, but that Oernabi had guided them towards Qerrbalak moments before their death. The religion, nicknamed Dienabi, would remain relatively unheard of until the discover of Epsilon Ursae Minor - The Planet of Eden.

[https://wiki.aurorastation.org/index.php?title=Dionae_History#Epsilon_Ursae_Minoris_History|Epsilon Ursae Minoris] was said to be rich in untouched wilderness, and after Captain Weirun Tup and their crew had touched down, they discovered a colony of Dionae. Them and their team remained for the duration of their expedition to learn more about the planet and it's inhabitants, finding that the Dionae had a vast wealth of information stored in their collective memories. Captain Weirun Tup, a recent follower of Dienabi, would often accompany the Dionae in order to explore their faith more deeply and the Dionae had one condition; Any who remained were to follow the Dionae's example and were to leave the landscape undisturbed for the most part.

When it was time for the crew to depart, the Jargon Federation had wished for a permanent ambassador to be implemented to ensure smooth relations between the Diona and the Federation. Captain Weirun Tup, a follower of Dienabi, immediately volunteered to step down from their position as Captain and remain behind, thus beginning their journey to write what is now considered the most sacred document to the Dienabi followers, '''The Deathflower Journal'''. The Deathflower Journal is best described as a manifesto by other followers, who use it whilst meditating. The Deathflower Journal contains various personal discoveries and notes.

Director Weirun Tup remained on Epsilon Ursae Minoris for another nine years before disappearing mysteriously one night, where the following morning many Dionae returned their personal items and stated that the Director was now with them. This had raised a few red flags amongst the research team, however, when it was revealed that the Dionae had retained their memories it went from suspicion to heightened curiosity. The Director was venerated by other followers of Dienabi as the first to have truly ascended and become a part of something greater, and it is said that one can still speak to the Director through a Gestalt that remains with the Skrellian settlement and since then, many followers of Dienabi often will undertake a pilgrimage to and from Epsilon Ursae Minoris - others choosing it as their final resting place through "reincarnation", following Director Weirun Tup's example and becoming a part of the Ascended. Followers call themselves '''‘The Awakened’''' and those who do not follow '''“The Dormant”'''. Dienabi is considered a minority compared to other faiths within the Jargon Federation.

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