Elder Mind

Basic Information

Anatomy

Elder Mind's are enormous brains around 3 meters in diameter but sometimes larger up to 6m in diameter. The Elder Mind could naturally grow tentacles after remaining in a stationary position for an extended period which would begin to seep along the ground like veins which allowed it to extend its cognitive range. Tentacles grew from the base of the Elder Brain around its mouth which was hidden while not eating. It could also grow additional tentacles from those tentacles already grown which themselves become thicker with time.

Genetics and Reproduction

Elder Minds are able to birth Illithid tadpoles from their 'mouths' which could be used to create more Illithid creatures. To create these tadpoles an Elder Mind required regular feeding and often before a birth a series of Illithid raids would occur against their neighboring regions.

Growth Rate & Stages

Elder Minds are formed when Illithids were left without a common mind. The roaming creatures maintained a weak psionic base but would naturally desire evolution. Once the group found a safe cavern one of their number would begin the metamorphosis into an Elder Mind over the course of a decade. 
Within the first year the flesh of the Illithid is consumed by itself as the mind begins to withdraw from its form eventually 'hatching' from the skull egg at roughly twice its natural size. It then gradually grows in size, faster if well fed, while forming stronger psionic links to the Illithid commune. As the Elder Mind grows it is able to maintain the psionic link with its hive from a greater distance usually growing its first tentacles after the third year and reaching its full size at the end of the decade.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Elder Mind's are carnivorous consuming the mind of their prey swiftly whilst slowly digesting the flesh until they secrete the bones and non-biological equipment of their food. The brain is the key element for the survival and maintenance of the Elder Mind though they are able to survive on the nutrient flesh of creatures if minds are unavailable. Elder Mind's that survive without ample brains to consume tend to have a withered shade and significantly weakened psionic abilities existing in a state of survival rather than life.

Additional Information

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Elder Mind's possess powerful telepathic abilities capable of sensing anything that occurs within 8km and communicating telepathically within 1km. They are able to engage in multiple conversations simultaneously without any harm and act as the central mind to the hive thought process of Illithid communities. Elder Brains maintain themselves through levitation using their psionic power.

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Illithid

Scientific Name

Niskhan Havikiir

Geographic Distribution

• Aesalia