Associated Organisms

Located in the Lava Tubes Near the 508:

-The Cutters—Small (roughly 40lb) 3 legged creatures with a nub-like structure that appears to serve as a head. Membranous, flexible blades run from the tips of its bony "feet" to the center of its underbelly, their movement and tension controlled by attached muscular and tendon-like structures; the blades are incredibly sharp, capable of cutting through light power armor without sign of resistance, but from off angles are quite fragile. When attacking, the creatures assume a low stance from which they can launch themselves at targets as spinning, bladed wheels; their aim in this shape is remarkably accurate.

Strangely, the Cutters possess no orifices that can be easily identified, giving rise to questions about their methods of sustenance and waste elimination. An cartilaginous organ in their head region produces clicking sounds that may play a role in communication. The skin of the Cutters provides some resistance to damage, but can be reliably penetrated by both solid projectiles and las fire; it can also be repurposed into garments and light leather armor.

Every Cutter has a metallic device on the left side of its body, which seems similar in design to the blood filtration devices created by Solomon; this may indicate that the modules act as a means of control from another artifact like the Philotes Device. (Indeed, we since have confirmed these to be smaller versions of the Vigil Devices) Though much of the internal anatomy of the creatures has yet to be studied in detail, they are largely filled with a viscous substance that is remarkably nutritious to humans, and possesses similar qualities to Asterion Tonic, including an ability to impart excellent health upon those who consume it regularly, such as the 508.

-As predicted, there are side effects to consumption of the substance; though it does not appear to foster psychological dependency, a physiological dependency appears to occur in which physical ailments cured or bettered by the substance will deteriorate to a worse than starting condition should access to the substance be removed.

-The Dark—Larger, quadrupedal creatures that appear to have a null psychic field. Interaction with these entities has been limited, but they have been observed to fight alongside the Cutters.

-The Brutes—Existence reported by the Chosen 508, yet to be encounter by KGco personnel. Very large and armored, according to description provided.