3 ᴍɪʟʟɪᴏɴ ᴘᴇᴏᴘʟᴇ ɪɴ ᴀ ᴛʀᴇɴᴄʜᴄᴏᴀᴛ

Aristaeus NAME Male SEX/GENDER Original CANON Immediately post-rescue from the mines. CANONPOINT

Raised in the technotheocracy of Kossos, Aristaeus spent his formative years in a group home among peers of similar age. Under the guidance of caretakers, he absorbed the fundamental values of his society early on. These included principles of discipline and obedience, a strong sense of collective responsibility, and the prioritization of the group's welfare above individual interests.

During his tenure at the military academy, Aristaeus' deep-seated nationalistic fervor, unwavering allegiance to the empire, and a self-centered belief in Kossian superiority were further ingrained. He embraced the notion that the empire's strategies of benevolent expansion were indispensable for enhancing the well-being of its assimilated populace.

Post-graduation, he joined a small operational unit consisting of three individuals. This placement offered Aristaeus a practical illustration of how personal connections could harmonize with his responsibilities as a Venator, strengthening his commitment to the collective while demonstrating the integration of personal relationships within the broader context of Kossian societal duties.

Nonetheless, the primary focus of the relationship remained centered on maintaining the unit's efficient and effective operation.

Aristaeus' life changed dramatically after meeting Mavis in the Soundless Wilds. Initially driven by an intense desire to capture her, his emotions towards her grew steadily more complex over time.

This experience forced him to confront and reassess his core beliefs, leading him to pivotal decisions with far-reaching consequences for his future.

When fully transformed, Aristaeus takes on the imposing stature of a destrier, standing at a formidable 18 hands high and measuring approximately 9 to 10 feet from nose to tail. His fur is sleek and glossy, a deep blue-black hue with a subtle swirling pattern reminiscent of drifting smoke.

Physically robust and agile, Aristaeus possesses sharp teeth and claws that are formidable weapons, capable of inflicting substantial damage on his adversaries. Despite his size, he moves with surprising speed and grace, showcasing his ability to maneuver effortlessly through challenging terrain and launch swift, decisive attacks.

INFERNAL BITE | His bite inflicts significant harm or incapacitating conditions, frequently triggering a feverish sensation owing to its injected venom. Such encounters can result in swift deterioration, agonizing suffering, and potential demise without swift medical intervention.

Additionally, he has the capacity to track individuals marked by his bite over great distances.

SPECTRAL HOWL | While in spectral form, he can unleash a bloodcurdling howl that sends shivers down the spines of all who hear it, freezing them in terror or causing them to flee in panic.

INTANGIBILITY | Given his spectral nature, he possesses a limited ability to phase through solid matter.

PHEROMONE GENERATION | He exerts control over its targets through the emission of specialized chemical signals, manipulating their behaviors, emotions, or perceptions. This ability is primarily focused on instilling fear or confusion, although it can also evoke feelings of attraction or induce compliance as necessary.

Old Shuck fiercely defends the woods, showing no mercy to trespassers and protecting allies. Active at night, he likely has a hidden den nearby.

In hunting, he behaves like a typical wolf, silently stalking and swiftly incapacitating threats to his domain. His spectral form allows eerie stealth, striking suddenly from the shadows.

His attacks are precise, aimed at minimal effort for maximum effect. He can phase through obstacles, adept at ambushing enemies. After incapacitating a threat, he drags them to his den, leaving no trace.