Deviants

Security Level: A

Recorded By: Veronica

Date: April 25, 2046

Epiphytes are creatures which have mutated from infected humans. They are completely controlled by Stardust and retain none of their human consciousness. They exist only to proliferate and spread. Epiphytes follow a clearly defined life-cycle. During the initial stage they are known as Deviants, having mutated after short-term exposure to Stardust. As most bodily tissue is quickly consumed and transformed, they are notably slender. Deviants are not generally predisposed toward violence, perhaps due to a lingering awareness of past human ideals. They are drawn to human settlements where their mostly humanoid appearance and gentle murmuring can make it difficult for survivors to kill them without feeling a sense of guilt. After a while, Stardust within the host multiplies, turning them into a Gnawer. Gnawers no longer resemble humans, except for their torsos. Their most distinctive feature is sporophyte tentacles on the back of their heads, which are infused with Stardust and spread pollution to their surroundings. Spreading Stardust is the fundamental motive behind a Gnawer's actions, therefore they are highly aggressive, and will attack people on site (often by biting or spitting). Once all energy in the host has been exhausted by Stardust, it enters the final phase of its life-cycle. The host will transform into an infected plant, inhabiting the Impasse, or in some cases, into a special type of Kin, known as a Star Walker.