Aphex (pronounced apex) are a species distinguished by their silence, endurance, and unusual, plantlike anatomy. They are one of the most common species in Elyxium, with thriving cultures, complex social structures, and a strong presence throughout many regions of the planet. Their origins remain uncertain, however, they were deemed to be the first intelligent species to arise after the downfall of the Ancestors. While many believe the species emerged during the final years of the Ancestors, the reason for their creation has long since been lost to time, buried beneath ruin of The First Bloom. What is known is that Aphex are strangely suited to survival: they have no mouths, communicate through an intricate sign language and written marks, and/or use sharp clicks from the throat to call for attention. Though voiceless by ordinary standards, they are capable of producing subtle sounds through the remnants of internal vocal structures. Rather than relying fully on food, Aphex sustain themselves by drawing energy from sunlight and absorbing water through their skin, a trait that allows them to endure harsh conditions for extended periods. However, this same biology leaves them especially susceptible to poisons and other dangerous liquids. Aphex can taste air quality and liquids primarily through the sensitive skin on their snouts and hands. Many Aphex will use gloves or wraps to avoid overstimulation when partaking in activities. 

Aphex have one of the best regenerative capabilities among the other main species of Elyxium. Wounds and missing limbs can regenerate if the affected area has not been sealed by heat, cold, or other unusual conditions. Missing limbs slowly regrow from flesh that resembles vines and plantlife before fur and skin replace the grizzly visage. Aphex have even been recorded surviving being completely frozen, only requiring to be thawed before returning to normalcy without complications. 

While Aphex are exceptionally hardy and resilient to their environments, they become considerably weaker during the night, and often sleep deeply until warmth or sunlight rises once more.

Aphex are highly sensitive beings, deeply attuned to themselves and the world around them. Many can perceive subtle shifts in weather, emotion, and the unseen atmosphere of their environment. They possess one of the oldest known cultural histories of any living species, with customs stretching back thousands of years. Hands are especially sacred in Aphex culture, and great care is often given to their nails, skin, and cleanliness. Many avoid touching strangers or unfamiliar objects without some form of protection. Some even tattoo their palms to permanently dull the taste receptors in the skin, sparing themselves unpleasant sensations, while others decorate their hands and wrists with elaborate jewelry as symbols of beauty, status, or personal identity.

Because they lack mouths, communication and affection can sometimes create an unusual divide between Aphex and other sentient species. Among their own kind, affection is often expressed through touch: trusted partners may gently rub their snouts together as a sign of intimacy, while a brief touch to the tip of the snout is more commonly a platonic greeting.

It is quite common to find an Aphex wearing one of these collars. The gem used is a rare mutation of Quartz, and can vary drastically in colour. This gem holds Erosia exceptionally well, making it easy to work with and tune into a specific purpose, which in this case is communication. The collar links with the user's thoughts and allows speech; however, practice is required to avoid speaking aloud inner thoughts. The visual design of these collars can vary to suit the wearer, but each will hold a large gem in its center and is usually made with metal. Speech from this collar often matches the user's inner voice, but with training, it can be altered. These collars are only compatible with intelligent species and will not work on other lifeforms. 

Being unable to eat or drink (conventionally) has not dissuaded Aphex from creating alternative methods to enjoy sustenance. Most commonly used is a unique type of glassware that slowly releases the liquid from inside over a span of 10-30 minutes, allowing the user to absorb the liquid by making contact with the cup. These cups are made with Dewglass, a unique type of glass created using sand from the Gemini Fields, which allows for an unusual trait: slow-releasing liquid. Among glassware, this material is also used in cuffs on the wrist called Infusion Cuffs. The Dewglass is soaked overnight in a flavoured liquid, then inserted into these cuffs to allow a slow release of liquid throughout the day. Alternatively, some Aphex may use Sip Stones, a more rudimentary form of cups or cuffs. These are large chunks of Dewglass that have been soaked in a flavoured liquid, which is then held in the user's hand during absorption. These Sip Stones can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, often faceted like a gem or smoothed into a circular or egg shape that is pleasant to roll between the fingers or palm.

To keep the identity of the species when applying mass amounts of traits or premium tokens, you must keep the following recognisable: Headshape should resemble references or a bird shape.