(AY-ko-see)
Pale-skinned, near-eternal humanoids distinguished by their silver-pink blood and luminous undertones. Once native to the now-ruined world of Aekos, Aekosi bodies exist in a constant state of cellular renewal, rendering them highly resistant to disease, toxins, and biological decay. True death typically only occurs through complete decapitation, incineration, or prolonged suffocation.
Although often viewed as immortal, Aekosi do experience natural death—though it is exceedingly rare. In the peaceful eras before the war, it was not uncommon for Aekosi to live upward of 100,000 years. Over time, however, even without significant trauma, their skin begins to show subtle signs of aging due to slow, cumulative environmental damage—most notably from exposure to sunlight. For those who endure frequent physical trauma or repeated regeneration cycles (such as enslaved Aekosi in blood camps), micro-scarring accumulates at the cellular level, gradually degrading their regenerative efficiency and significantly shortening their lifespan.
They do not scar easily; only repeated trauma without full healing can mar their otherwise flawless skin. While their bodies regenerate, their memories do not—so brain damage can lead to irreversible loss of self and identity.
For many, old age—especially in a culture that prizes strength, vitality, and sacred bonds—can feel like a burden. Those who have lost their bondmates or feel their time in this plane of existence is complete may choose to undergo a sacred release ritual, a form of assisted death that allows them to return to the Great Luminance. These ceremonies are treated with reverence and celebration, a spiritual reunion rather than a tragic ending.
Their blood contains bio-reactive particles that promote rapid healing and anti-aging effects when consumed by other species. It tastes sweet, almost honeyed—and for some, dangerously addictive.