Ascended

The Ascended are former Awoken who have absorbed the essence of an entity from the Ether. This caused them to undergo a process that grants them immortality and vastly increased magical powers. However, whilst their lifespan becomes infinite, as they become older and older, their bodies will eventually be warped by the essence of the Ethereal inside them, causing them to undergo various degrees of radical change, where they may take on new physical and mental traits.

Appearance
Upon their initial transformation, the Ascended retain their original appearance. However, as they age, and become subject to the process known as the Change, many undergo physiological changes, some of which are mild, such as a change in eye or skin color, or others which are incredibly severe, involving them transforming into snakelike monsters or growing pairs of wings.

Aging
Ascended do not show signs of physical degradation as they age. However, between the ages of three and five millennia, they begin to undergo the process known as the Change, which often alters their physical appearance. It may take months, years, decades, or even centuries to complete, but by the time it is done they will be acknowledged as Elders and have gained magical power even more potent then they originally possessed. Between eight and ten millennia of age, the Change is reinforced, causing whatever traits they gained to become exacerbated, and giving them the status of Ancient as they gain an additional power boost.

The Change
The Change is an alteration to an Ascended that comes as a result of housing an Ethereal spirit in their bodies for so long. It can take many forms, being either a physical transformation, a mental alteration, or a hunger for flesh. The first time of the change, when the Ascended reaches Elder status, is usually more mild, and far more extreme upon their rise to Ancient.

Powers and Abilities
Despite the great diversity among them, the Ascended do all share a set of common abilities.

Enhanced Senses:

Immortality:

Regeneration:

Weaknesses
Iron: The antimagic properties of pure iron serve as an extreme detriment to the magic infused bodies of an Ascended. Its touch can not only suppress and weaken their magical abilities, but causes them enormous physical pain. Older, more powerful Ascended are effected by this even more strongly, with even the sight of iron causing them discomfort.