SUBJECT: Gand, Lar/Valor

Although the biophysics of the Daxamite species and its reaction to certain frequencies of stellar radiation have long been documented (see ref: L.E.G.I.O.N. Files, Supreme Commander Vril Dox II, Old Date 1992); I suppose for the sake of completion I must give at least a brief overview here.

Much as with the legendary "Superman" of Krypton, the cellular structure of a Daxamite is similar to that of all humanoids. However, a certain chemical makeup in the ribosome resembles chlorophyll in that it is capable of absorbing solar energy and storing it.

Once the ribosomes achieve saturation levels of this radiation, they begin to re-radiate the energy in the form of a bioelectric forcefield. Each individual cell within the field's radius becomes "ruggedized"--reinforced in such a way that the cells are not only protected from external harm, but internal forces as well. It is this last which is key to the great powers of the Daxamites: Since the individual cells are wholly invulnerable, they are capable of operating at levels of efficeincy that would destroy normal humanoid cells. These "super-cells" lend an enhancing effect to all bodily systems...muscular, metabolic, nervous, and so forth. The continual absorption of solar energy provides a constant power source for these enhanced systems.

Thus, the Daxamite is capable of incredible feats. Physical strength is greatly magnified by the combination of the solar power source, the more-efficient muscular system, and the enhancement of the skeletal system's structural integrity. Similarly, the enhanced metabolic rate, muscular speed, and nervous system grant the subject incredible speed. Naturally, the basic forcefield effect renders him invulnerable to all imaginable harm.

The enhanced structure of the sensory organs combined with the increased capacity of the nervous system provides for the greatly enhanced senses. Range of hearing extends from the subsonic through to the point where signal modulation in broadcast communications can be sensed and demodulated into "sounds". Visual reception range covers the entirety of the electromagnetic spectrum; by focussing on high frequency radiation (gamma rays, x-rays, cosmic radiation) a Daxamite can see through solid matter as if it were transparent.

There are two additional effects to these solar powers that very nearly defy explanation. Firstly, it is possible for the Daxamite, at will, to use his personal bioelectric field to negate gravity...allowing him to fly. Secondly, Daxamites posess the ability to expel stored solar energy in the form of focussed beams of infrared radiation through their eyes. These heat beams are capable of melting or burning through almost every known substance.

The fatal flaw in the Daxamite cellular physiology is this: common elemental lead, in the most minute amounts, can react catastrophically wioth the very ribosomal chemical that grants these powers. The briefest contact can strip a Daxamite's powers, and further begin a fatal poisoning that totally shuts down cellular activity in the affected areas. As lead makes its way through the bloodstream, it eventually reaches all parts of the body and brings death...usually as the body's immune system attempts to expel the deadly toxin. A chemical formula developed by Vril Dox II can counteract this effect by creating a far less harmful reaction with the ribosomes that renders them nonreactive to lead.

Further, the radiation signature of the red sun of the Daxam system (and similar stars) instantly causes the ribosomal structures to lose their stored energy, reducing a Daxamite to normal humanoid levels.

--- Gregory A. "Scoob" Sheets is the original author of this peice! Thanks Greg:):)