Dionae Biology - Revision history

Arbiter Ambrose: Adds lore regarding diona metabolism

2026-03-30T03:29:03Z

Adds lore regarding diona metabolism

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:29, 30 March 2026
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	As more efficient samples are used, however, the mental and psychosomatic strain put on the gestalt increases. Depending on the freshness of the harvest, the Dionae in question will re-experience pain receptors of the sample firing off as it’s dissolving in a digestion vacuole. For sapient or intelligent species, this also can mean reliving the experience of dying, depending on the freshness of the harvest. Too many of these kinds of harvests will often reduce a gestalt to a voided vocals mindtype. Accounts from mourning mass Dionae describe a full body harvest as “dying a second time.” For these reasons, Dionae that have to process meat for sustenance must fully drain and cook their choice of meal until it is well done. Dry-aged meats and other forms of preservation tend to be popular as well.		As more efficient samples are used, however, the mental and psychosomatic strain put on the gestalt increases. Depending on the freshness of the harvest, the Dionae in question will re-experience pain receptors of the sample firing off as it’s dissolving in a digestion vacuole. For sapient or intelligent species, this also can mean reliving the experience of dying, depending on the freshness of the harvest. Too many of these kinds of harvests will often reduce a gestalt to a voided vocals mindtype. Accounts from mourning mass Dionae describe a full body harvest as “dying a second time.” For these reasons, Dionae that have to process meat for sustenance must fully drain and cook their choice of meal until it is well done. Dry-aged meats and other forms of preservation tend to be popular as well.

			===The Hunger===

			Dionae are capable of great feats based on their latent biological potential. They posses a significant healing factor, and can manipulate their own biomass in a way no other species can. They can create simple walls, rudimentary computers, and even entire ships from their own bodies. Accomplishing such feats requires immense intake of biomass and energy calories, and while Dionean physiology is adapted to maximize utilization from matter and the environment, they have an intense metabolic rate to match their efficiency.
			Despite their lack of tastebuds, the act of consuming any food is greatly pleasurable and Dionae have energy caloric requirements comparable to industrial furnaces. This gnawing, near constantly present appetite is known colloquially across Dionean cultures as The Hunger.
			This has led to food being a universal aspect of dionean celebrations and regular everyday routine for gestalts. Whether it’s platters of carp fillets in Voidtamer clusters, to bieselite construction crews gorging on NT-burger-bulls, or a group of Nralakk diplomat enjoying Jyalra, communal eating is a common thread across dionae cultures and an enjoyed pastime.

	=== Biomass ===		=== Biomass ===
	Biomass is special tissue in gestalts that nymphs are capable of producing and manipulating. It is capable of converting back and forth between specialised tissue into undifferentiated cells, not unlike that of many types of terrestrial invertebrates. Ordinarily, biomass forms the soft tissue between nymph and mycelium connections, storing calories and softening impacts on behalf of the gestalt. However, biomass is also used to create a wide variety of organic constructs, from specialised organelles or appendages for the gestalt to building materials and even weapons. What a gestalt can create is limited by accrued genetic information from harvests, techniques developed through experience or scientific study, and the individual gestalt’s imagination. No two gestalts understand the same biomass techniques and different communities of gestalts often develop biomass abilities adapted to their environment or living circumstances. The largest constraining variables on these constructs are the metabolic and caloric costs. A gestalt cannot deplete their biomass reserves too quickly without means to replenish them, or else they will begin to deplete the reserve soft tissue that cushions and protects the entire gestalt complex. Dionae that expend biomass too quickly become weak, brittle, and lethargic.		Biomass is special tissue in gestalts that nymphs are capable of producing and manipulating. It is capable of converting back and forth between specialised tissue into undifferentiated cells, not unlike that of many types of terrestrial invertebrates. Ordinarily, biomass forms the soft tissue between nymph and mycelium connections, storing calories and softening impacts on behalf of the gestalt. However, biomass is also used to create a wide variety of organic constructs, from specialised organelles or appendages for the gestalt to building materials and even weapons. What a gestalt can create is limited by accrued genetic information from harvests, techniques developed through experience or scientific study, and the individual gestalt’s imagination. No two gestalts understand the same biomass techniques and different communities of gestalts often develop biomass abilities adapted to their environment or living circumstances. The largest constraining variables on these constructs are the metabolic and caloric costs. A gestalt cannot deplete their biomass reserves too quickly without means to replenish them, or else they will begin to deplete the reserve soft tissue that cushions and protects the entire gestalt complex. Dionae that expend biomass too quickly become weak, brittle, and lethargic.

Caelphon: /* Geras */

2025-01-04T04:40:43Z

Geras

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:40, 4 January 2025
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	===Geras===		===Geras===

	Geras, or Elders, are older Dionae that have overcome many adversities to be able to boast their unity for centuries; they are also covered in a decent amount of growths across their Gestalt. As a result of this, they are less mobile, but protected from most forms of damage; they are therefore less pacifistic than their younger counterparts. Due to their more experienced nature, Geras will frequently serve in positions of authority within Dionae hierarchies, as well as have sufficient resources to do so in non-Dionae hierarchies found across the Orion Spur, particularly in the Nralakk Federation. Colloquially referred to as Shepherds by those studying the species, Geras have an almost biological instinct to guide the younger generations, and ultimately seek to serve those that have managed to survive the transition to Vetus or Penuma. Geras approaching Vetus are known to focus solely on ensuring their memories and experiences are passed on, spawning new Gestalts when possible, and finding an appropriate and safe location to essentially spend the rest of their life; most often they will return to a similar environment from which they were first grown from. Uncommonly, some have elected to drift across the stars, until they are absorbed by stars.		Geras, or Elders, are older Dionae that have overcome many adversities to be able to boast their unity for centuries; they are also covered in a decent amount of growths across their Gestalt. As a result of this, they are less mobile, but protected from most forms of damage; they are therefore less pacifistic than their younger counterparts. Due to their more experienced nature, Geras will frequently serve in positions of authority within Dionae hierarchies, as well as have sufficient resources to do so in non-Dionae hierarchies found across the Orion Spur, particularly in the [[Nralakk Federation]]. Colloquially referred to as Shepherds by those studying the species, Geras have an almost biological instinct to guide the younger generations, and ultimately seek to serve those that have managed to survive the transition to Vetus or Penuma. Geras approaching Vetus are known to focus solely on ensuring their memories and experiences are passed on, spawning new Gestalts when possible, and finding an appropriate and safe location to essentially spend the rest of their life; most often they will return to a similar environment from which they were first grown from. Uncommonly, some have elected to drift across the stars, until they are absorbed by stars.

			'''Dionae may also become Geras as a result of accelerated growth. This comes as a result of intense radiation in the environment surrounding a Dionae. Though biologically a Dionae may become a Geras earlier, psychologically they'd still keep much of their Coeus tendencies until sufficiently mature.'''

	===Vetus===		===Vetus===

Caelphon: /* Lifespan */

2025-01-04T04:39:14Z

Lifespan

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:39, 4 January 2025
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	\|-		\|-
	\| '''With treatments''' \|\| 120-140 years old \|\| 150-180 years old \|\| 80-100 years old		\| '''With treatments''' \|\| 120-140 years old \|\| 150-180 years old \|\| 80-100 years old
			\|-
			\| '''Accelerated Growth''' \|\| 15-50 years old \|\| 50-70 years old \|\| 10-30 years old
	\|}		\|}

Caelphon: /* Lifespan */

2025-01-04T04:38:05Z

Lifespan

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:38, 4 January 2025
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	= Lifespan =		= Lifespan =

			{\| class="wikitable"
			\|+ Age bracket for Coeus officially being classified as a Geras
			\|-
			! - !! Default Bark (temperate/spacestation grown) !! Lighter Bark (warm planets) !! Darker bark (cold planets/space)
			\|-
			\| '''Natural''' \|\| 50-90 years old\|\| 80-120 years old \|\| 30-70 years old
			\|-
			\| '''With treatments''' \|\| 120-140 years old \|\| 150-180 years old \|\| 80-100 years old
			\|}

	Dionae do not have a determinable lifespan. Some may live for minutes, while others can live for millennia in the care of younger gestalts, but this is rare, and largely unheard of throughout the greater Spur except across [[Hieroaetheria]]. Academics and researchers, primarily comprised of Skrell, with a growing minority of Dionae, have categorised the lifespan of the species into six critical stages, where provided one manages to survive the prior, they move on to the next. They do not necessarily follow a linear timeline but instead occur based on contextual circumstances, such as the formation of a Gestalt.		Dionae do not have a determinable lifespan. Some may live for minutes, while others can live for millennia in the care of younger gestalts, but this is rare, and largely unheard of throughout the greater Spur except across [[Hieroaetheria]]. Academics and researchers, primarily comprised of Skrell, with a growing minority of Dionae, have categorised the lifespan of the species into six critical stages, where provided one manages to survive the prior, they move on to the next. They do not necessarily follow a linear timeline but instead occur based on contextual circumstances, such as the formation of a Gestalt.

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	The only known Penuma exists within the Eternal Temple on Biesel; with the Vetus Firsts of the Consortium of Hieroaetheria possibly becoming the second known Penuma provided they survive long enough. Those that reach this stage are believed to be millennia old; with the Eternal Temple citing the Penuma as remainders from the original one destroyed by the Solarian Alliance in Rueltab, with very few survivors being guarded and transported off-world when possible. The dense bark and tendrils impede their ability to absorb sustenance, leading Penuma to develop alternate methods of gathering energy, such as linking with Nymphs on the exterior or forming a moss-like layer over their form. This process is inefficient and may lead to the accumulation of mundane growths that can be burned as nutrients during periods of starvation.		The only known Penuma exists within the Eternal Temple on Biesel; with the Vetus Firsts of the Consortium of Hieroaetheria possibly becoming the second known Penuma provided they survive long enough. Those that reach this stage are believed to be millennia old; with the Eternal Temple citing the Penuma as remainders from the original one destroyed by the Solarian Alliance in Rueltab, with very few survivors being guarded and transported off-world when possible. The dense bark and tendrils impede their ability to absorb sustenance, leading Penuma to develop alternate methods of gathering energy, such as linking with Nymphs on the exterior or forming a moss-like layer over their form. This process is inefficient and may lead to the accumulation of mundane growths that can be burned as nutrients during periods of starvation.

	Despite their daunting appearance, Penuma maintains an active consciousness and a profound wealth of knowledge. However, their interaction with the external world is minimal, primarily providing guidance and wisdom only when deemed necessary. Geras often communicate with them to learn from their extensive experiences, but Penuma may respond unpredictably due to their vast, contemplative nature. Instances of Penuma defending themselves against perceived threats have been reported. Their response can include the use of their biomass to entangle and digest intruders, leading some to view them as potentially dangerous. Nevertheless, Penuma's primary focus remains on deep philosophical and esoteric musings. Penuma is revered as the spirit and foundation of Dionae knowledge and culture, offering a link to the species' distant past. Despite their reclusive nature and the challenges of studying them, their presence symbolizes the enduring legacy of the Dionae.		Despite their daunting appearance, Penuma maintains an active consciousness and a profound wealth of knowledge. However, their interaction with the external world is minimal, primarily providing guidance and wisdom only when deemed necessary. Geras often communicate with them to learn from their extensive experiences, but Penuma may respond unpredictably due to their vast, contemplative nature. Instances of Penuma defending themselves against perceived threats have been reported. Their response can include the use of their biomass to entangle and digest intruders, leading some to view them as potentially dangerous. Nevertheless, Penuma's primary focus remains on deep philosophical and esoteric musings. Penuma is revered as the spirit and foundation of Dionae knowledge and culture, offering a link to the species' distant past. Despite their reclusive nature and the challenges of studying them, their presence symbolizes the enduring legacy of the Dionae.

	=Appearance=		=Appearance=

Caelphon: /* Appearance */

2024-06-13T05:44:21Z

Appearance

← Older revision		Revision as of 05:44, 13 June 2024
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	=Appearance=		=Appearance=

	Dionae vary in appearance, but they all have a common foundation; an intertwining, fungal-like body that generally comprises a Gestalt, no matter the size or age. It has been compared to a vine in some instances, closely locking into one another that it almost looks like a singular force – but upon closer inspection, one can see that there are actually different Nymphs comprising of a greater Gestalt. Depending on the age of a Gestalt, as well as the environment in which one is exposed, one can have different appearances. The environment in which one is exposed can further more have a deeper influence on one’s appearance, such as the ability to genetically assimilate its surroundings; leading to mimicry in some instances. Generally, those exposed to high-radiation environments develop a much darker appearance, similar to those exposed to radiation found in the Cosmos; however, the notable difference is that these forms of high radiation are typically found in terrestrial conditions. The most likelihood of one experiencing this environment are those found on Moghes – they are akin to a very dark lilac, or even deep green – contrasting against the bleak nuclear wastelands of Moghes. It isn’t uncommon for a Dionae exposed to high quantities of radioactive material to slowly darken over a period of time, as seen in those working closely with nuclear power. In contrast to those within a high-radiation environment, those born and grown within ~~these~~ environments are much lighter than their other counterparts. Their appearance is largely regarded as “abnormal” – not only just to other Dionae but non-Dionae as well. They have a sickly appearance, often appearing almost chrysoprase or prase-like on examination. Typically, those grown in these environments do not survive long – those that do use the experience as a foundation for their name, and all the obstacles they have to overcome to get where they are. Similarly, those that exist in this environment after having been grown elsewhere begin to slowly lighten over a period of time, but only in rare circumstances will a survivor be able to tell the journey.		Dionae vary in appearance, but they all have a common foundation; an intertwining, fungal-like body that generally comprises a Gestalt, no matter the size or age. It has been compared to a vine in some instances, closely locking into one another that it almost looks like a singular force – but upon closer inspection, one can see that there are actually different Nymphs comprising of a greater Gestalt. Depending on the age of a Gestalt, as well as the environment in which one is exposed, one can have different appearances. The environment in which one is exposed can further more have a deeper influence on one’s appearance, such as the ability to genetically assimilate its surroundings; leading to mimicry in some instances. Generally, those exposed to high-radiation environments develop a much darker appearance, similar to those exposed to radiation found in the Cosmos; however, the notable difference is that these forms of high radiation are typically found in terrestrial conditions. The most likelihood of one experiencing this environment are those found on Moghes – they are akin to a very dark lilac, or even deep green – contrasting against the bleak nuclear wastelands of Moghes. It isn’t uncommon for a Dionae exposed to high quantities of radioactive material to slowly darken over a period of time, as seen in those working closely with nuclear power. In contrast to those within a high-radiation environment, those born and grown within low-radiation environments are much lighter than their other counterparts. Their appearance is largely regarded as “abnormal” – not only just to other Dionae but non-Dionae as well. They have a sickly appearance, often appearing almost chrysoprase or prase-like on examination. Typically, those grown in these environments do not survive long – those that do use the experience as a foundation for their name, and all the obstacles they have to overcome to get where they are. Similarly, those that exist in this environment after having been grown elsewhere begin to slowly lighten over a period of time, but only in rare circumstances will a survivor be able to tell the journey.

	==Baseline and Desirable Traits==		==Baseline and Desirable Traits==

Caelphon: /* Genetic harvest efficiency */

2024-06-11T08:41:53Z

Genetic harvest efficiency

← Older revision		Revision as of 08:41, 11 June 2024
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	*Dead nerve tissue samples		*Dead nerve tissue samples
	*Spinal fluid		*Spinal fluid
	*Active nerve tissue~~, brain~~ matter.		*Active nerve tissue
			*Brain matter

	As more efficient samples are used, however, the mental and psychosomatic strain put on the gestalt increases. Depending on the freshness of the harvest, the Dionae in question will re-experience pain receptors of the sample firing off as it’s dissolving in a digestion vacuole. For sapient or intelligent species, this also can mean reliving the experience of dying, depending on the freshness of the harvest. Too many of these kinds of harvests will often reduce a gestalt to a voided vocals mindtype. Accounts from mourning mass Dionae describe a full body harvest as “dying a second time.” For these reasons, Dionae that have to process meat for sustenance must fully drain and cook their choice of meal until it is well done. Dry-aged meats and other forms of preservation tend to be popular as well.		As more efficient samples are used, however, the mental and psychosomatic strain put on the gestalt increases. Depending on the freshness of the harvest, the Dionae in question will re-experience pain receptors of the sample firing off as it’s dissolving in a digestion vacuole. For sapient or intelligent species, this also can mean reliving the experience of dying, depending on the freshness of the harvest. Too many of these kinds of harvests will often reduce a gestalt to a voided vocals mindtype. Accounts from mourning mass Dionae describe a full body harvest as “dying a second time.” For these reasons, Dionae that have to process meat for sustenance must fully drain and cook their choice of meal until it is well done. Dry-aged meats and other forms of preservation tend to be popular as well.

Caelphon: /* Genetic harvest efficiency */

2024-06-11T08:41:34Z

Genetic harvest efficiency

← Older revision		Revision as of 08:41, 11 June 2024
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	*Blood samples		*Blood samples
	*Flesh and tissue samples		*Flesh and tissue samples
	*Organ tissue samples~~, bone~~ marrow		*Organ tissue samples
	*Dead nerve tissue samples~~, spinal~~ fluid		*Bone marrow
			*Dead nerve tissue samples
			*Spinal fluid
	*Active nerve tissue, brain matter.		*Active nerve tissue, brain matter.

Caelphon at 08:19, 11 June 2024

2024-06-11T08:19:06Z

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Caelphon at 14:31, 10 October 2023

2023-10-10T14:31:11Z

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Caelphon at 10:33, 26 September 2023

2023-09-26T10:33:49Z

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