Miscellaneous – Psionics
"The Gift is one which spans the galaxy and gives us the ability to shape reality itself. But we should not become complacent in what it offers, for it is far from the only power within this galaxy."
- The Imperator of the Ethereal Collective
ANALYSIS REPORT: 10000011
SUBJECT OF INTEREST: PSIONICS
ADDITIONAL REFERENCES: "THE GIFT"
AUTHOR: FEDERATION MILITARY COMMANDER R'SARRAH
ORIGIN: UNKNOWN
SPECIES CAPABLE OF PSIONIC MANIPULATION: SECTOIDS; ETHEREALS; HUMANS
INFORMATION OF NOTE: ANDROMEDONS, VITAKARA, AND MUTONS ARE INCAPABLE OF PSIONIC MANIPULATION
INFORMATION OF NOTE: PSIONIC SENSITIVITY LIKELY DETERMINED BY UNKNOWN GENETIC VARIABLE
INFORMATION OF NOTE: POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS TO USER
INFORMATION OF NOTE: HIGHLY DANGEROUS TO ENEMIES OF PSION
INFORMATION OF NOTE: RESEARCH LIMITED BY THE ETHEREAL COLLECTIVE
INFORMATION OF NOTE: FULL EXTENT OF PSIONIC ABILITIES ARE UNKNOWN
INFORMATION OF NOTE: FOUR DISTINCT DISCIPLINES OF PSIONIC USAGE IDENTIFIED
INFORMATION OF NOTE: THIS DOCUMENT HAS UNDERGONE 24 REVISIONS SINCE INITIAL SUBMISSION
THREAT LEVEL TO ANDROMEDON FEDERATION: OMEGA – INCREASED DEVELOPMENT OF COUNTERMEASURES AND RESEARCH REQUIRED IMMEDIATELY
ADDITIONAL MANUAL COMMENTS:
OVERVIEW: The phenomenon known to the Andromedon Federation as "Psionics" is the noted manipulation of reality and additional immeasurable forces by one or multiple users. Prior to first contact with the Ethereal Collective, no phenomenon similar to psionics had been identified. This document covers the Andromedon understanding of psionics and the threat they pose to the Andromedon Federation.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PSIONICS AND KETT'TASIRA BIOMANIPULATION:
There has been speculation within Unions that the Kett'Tasira were also users of psionics, but the observed abilities of the Kett'Tasira do not match the observed abilities of psionic users. There are several main differences:
1. All usages of psionics are accompanied by an observable purple aura, which varies in intensity depending on the power of the psion in question, as well as the intensity of the power itself. Kett'Tasira Biomanipulation does not have any visible auras or observable characteristics while in use.
2. Telepathy allowing the reading of individual thoughts and memories is possible through psionics. Kett'Tasira are incapable of this level of telepathic manipulation.
3. Certain usages of psionic allow the destruction of inorganic material. Kett'Tasira Biomanipulation is incapable of this.
4. It is possible to negate the usage of certain aspects of psionics, this is not the case with Kett'Tasira Biomanipulation.
5. Psionic effects cannot spread out of an immediate area of impact (NOTE: Telepathic examples might be excluded as in theory it is possible to develop sleeper agents through the usage of telepathic domination) and no residue remains for long periods of time. Kett'Tasira Biomanipulation has been known to spread and contaminate planets for up to ten galactic cycles before fading. (NOTE: All Kett'Tasira Biomanipulators are capable of decontaminating areas and planets – this was an often-used tactic).
6. It is appears impossible to artificially awaken psionics in non-psion species. In theory, Biomanipulation can be understood and performed by other species.
7. Psionics does not induce extreme and unnatural physical transformations as the Kett'Tasira Biomanipulators are capable of performing.
8. Biomanipulation is capable of destroying planets. There has been no evidence to suggest psionics is capable of the same.
With these differences observed, we can conclude that Kett'Tasira are likely incapable of utilizing psionics, though their Biomanipulation is just so, if not more lethal. It is unknown if either of these phenomenons are limited to their respective galaxies.
USERS OF PSIONICS:
Currently, there are three identified species which are capable of utilizing psionics:
Sectoids: Similar to Ethereals, and unlike Humans, the entirety of the Sectoid race is psionically capable. It is unknown if this is a natural phenomenon or a result of initiatives created by the Greater Hive Commanders. The end result is the entire species has access to a dangerous power, though the majority are too weak to use it properly.
The Sectoids exercise full control of the extent of psionics in their species, with drones possessing very little, their combat units such as the Helion-7 Defenders, Leaders, and Vanguards possessing much higher levels of psionic power, and the pinnacle of their psions are the Hive Commanders themselves.
Their primary method of communication is telepathy, enabled by their psionic aptitude, and this is where the species specializes. Hive Commanders are assumed to be expert telepaths, and are also likely to be experienced in Offensive, Defensive, and Telekinetic disciplines as well. To date, there have only been two instances of a Hive Commander participating in combat, both against XCOM (Where both Hive Commanders were defeated). The details of these are currently unavailable to the Federation.
Humans: Human usage of psionics mirrors the Ethereals in many ways. They are observed to be capable of the four noted disciplines, and are capable of matching Hive Commanders in combat. The entire species itself is not psionically sensitive, though an unknown portion are, most of whom are likely dormant until 'awakened' via methods developed by XCOM or exposed to psionic technology.
Humans have quickly attempted to utilize this power against Collective forces, and have grown more skilled as the war progresses, and as of yet do not seem to be suffering ill effects. The observed power of their psions is only challenged by Ethereals, and remains greater than Sectoids. Note that this is because there is no observable data for comparison with the Hive Commanders.
Ethereals: While there have only been a few observed, Ethereals are the undisputed pinnacle of psionic power. Each individual Ethereal observed is capable of single-handedly facing entire armies and emerging victorious. Even Human psions are no match for Ethereals in direct combat. It is suspected that the Ethereals are not this powerful by natural means, but through continuous genetic manipulation to achieve greater psionic power.
Ethereals deployed in combat are few, but have appeared to specialize in specific disciplines of psionic power, or utilize a hybrid of multiple disciplines. It is extremely likely that each one is at least capable of utilizing other psionic disciplines to subjectively lesser effect:
The BATTLEMASTER: This is likely a unique Ethereal in that he does not utilize as much obvious or destructive psionic power as other Ethereals. His observed psionic abilities in combat have primarily been telekinesis, of which he is likely an expert, though it is of a much lesser range. He has been observed once to be capable of creating a psionic shield around him, but it is unknown if he can expand this ability any more than he already has. The Battlemaster does not use this ability often, if at all; it is unknown if he simply dislikes it or is not proficient.
CAELIOR: This Ethereal has a far higher range of telekinesis than we had previously thought possible. Caelior single-handedly destroyed the most entrenched ADVENT defenses in Tokyo within one Earth hour, while destroying most of the city itself. Nothing appeared able to resist his displayed telekinesis, nor prevent him from attacking in any way.
AEGIS: We have little to no knowledge of his capabilities, save that he was the initial Ethereal sent upon first contact. The title implies some knowledge of defensive psionics, though this evidence is tenuous at best, and may be inaccurate. However, it is extremely likely that Aegis is capable of all four disciplines like most other Ethereals.
THREAT TO THE ANDROMEDON FEDERATION: The usage of psionic powers poses a clear and present threat to the Andromeda Federation, especially from the Greater Hive Commanders. While the Ethereals are objectively more powerful, there are far fewer of them, and certain representatives have shown an interest in cooperation. The Ethereals appear to also be aware of certain larger threats to this galaxy, and are unlikely to impose their will militarily on the Federation due to their numbers and unwillingness to interfere in daily Collective and Federation operations. With that noted, do not forget that the Ethereals have ensured that research of psionics is highly limited to the Sectoids and the puppet species Vitakara. They clearly do not support research into their greatest strength, and we should not ignore what that might imply.
In contrast, the Greater Hive Commanders have spent decades in the construction and pursuit of armies, fleets, and unknown experiments conducted in the Helion Sector. They have continuously supported the suppression of psionic research for Federation endeavors and have worked to reduce the influence of the Andromedon Federation within the Ethereal Collective at all available turns. They are not above using their telepathy and psionic abilities to manipulate other species, and are notorious for considering alien species as lesser, with perhaps the exception of the Ethereals themselves. The Greater Hive Commanders are fully willing and capable of wishing to dominate the Federation, and that cannot be ignored forever.
The Humans are rapidly advancing in psionic mastery, even if their numbers pale in comparison to the larger Collective military. With that understood, the awakening of more Human psions is estimated to turn a near-guaranteed victory into a much harder war that will be unable to be beaten without significant resources. The capture and experimentation of Human psions is our greatest opportunity to further our own understanding of psionics.
Alternatively, we can work to acquire Humans of our own and work to weaponize them in the event that the Greater Hive Commanders attempt further disruption of Federation efforts. Care must be taken, and the usage of Special Operators will be necessary to fully subvert both the Greater Hive Commanders and the Zararch.
DEFENSES: The only consistently effective means of disrupting psionic telepathy is through extreme cybernetic modification. Extensively modified Andromedons are fully capable of resisting telepathy, though their usefulness in areas outside of combat or programmed operations is extremely limited. Biological modification has produced no satisfactory results, although both the Muton Sargon and Elite appear to have subroutines disrupting telepathic domination (NOTE: This is no longer confirmed, as recorded footage of the ADVENT attack of Las Vegas indicates that every organic enemy fell under the control of a hostile psion. This indicates these subroutines are still flawed, or were misinterpreted from the beginning).
Defenses against Offensive uses of psionics are few, and have only been reliably stopped through the use of Defensive psionics. Armor offers a moderate amount of protection against low-power psions, but otherwise is useless against psionic storms of energy which at minimum destroy weaker parts of suits causing passive damage that reduces overall survivability.
Defenses against telekinetic attacks are possible in theory, using skeletal architecture to increase the time required to attack, but this does not provide protection against freezing or stasis, and other acts that immobilize targets. Physical weapons are also ineffective against a telekinetic, as those can simply be deflected away. Energy weapons are preferred if attacking a telekine, as those cannot be deflected.
Automated forces appear to be the most useful line of defense against psionics, specifically drones and automated ground units. Those would be immune to telepathy and could be designed and constructed with the sole purpose of fighting psions.
ADDITIONAL AREAS OF RESEARCH: The Federation must devote extensive resources to the following:
- The acquisition of psionic test subjects (Primarily Humans and Sectoids).
- The design and development of Anti-Psionic units.
- The retrofitting of current areas of Federation interests to account for telepathic spies.
- The design and development of psionic detection devices.
I formally propose to the Chief Overseer that a motion is introduced to the Unions to formally ignore the restrictions on psionic research imposed by the Ethereal Collective, and supported by the Greater Hive Commanders. We need not reveal our reasons, as the Human issue is one we can use to force our point.
But what we cannot do is maintain the status quo any longer. The Hive Commanders have taken steps in developing psions of war using the Humans as an excuse, and the Ethereals themselves will do nothing to interfere. We have already been forced to abandon our home due to a power beyond our understanding that nearly destroyed us, and that is not something that can happen once again.
This Human war will be a catalyst for the future, and we must be prepared for the aftermath. At the very minimum, we need to ensure we have primary dominion over the Humans once they are conquered. Those who have the most control over that species will change the balance of power within the Collective.
We cannot let the Hive Commanders attain more control than they already have.
Science Report: Psionic Experimentation
Division: Vitakara Sciarnia
Location: Earth
Author: Sci'arri'valian
The current research into how Humans react to their psionic abilities have not only given us valuable information on Human-Psionic interaction, but also have significantly advanced our own understanding of psionics itself, something that has been lacking for far too long. While the sample size is limited, the results can likely be easily incorporated into future research projects.
Current and Revised Understanding of Psionics: The usage and understanding of psionics has been limited due to the restrictions imposed by the Ethereal Collective due to the inherent risks associated with psionic research. This has been relaxed on joint research efforts with the Greater Hive Commanders who have additional experience in handling psionic tests, but individual sanctioned experimentation by a species has not been permitted. This endeavor was surprising in that regard, as it offered the Vitakara Sciarnia within the Collective Military a chance to perform research of our own.
With intermitted Sectoid contact, I can confirm that the risks associated with researching psionics are not unfounded. With unwilling test subjects, there are large risks associated with potential loss of control, and all test subjects have to be monitored carefully to ensure they are not using their power against us.
Vitakara are incapable of harnessing psionics, and it is unlikely this is an incorrect conclusion. Early tests with the Collective indicated that there was no race that was capable of being awakened. This was tested with both Ethereal and Sectoid methods, on a wide range of Vitakara. In addition, there have been no historical instances of any race displaying anything related to psionics. Even the Oyariah have publically stated that none of their own have possessed any extra-dimensional capabilities, or any other powers that are capable of exhibiting similar effects as psionics.
Research into the Human psions does appear to confirm that psionic potential is only limited to certain species. It has been determined to be genetic, and we have attempted a comparison between Human and Sectoid genetics to see if there are similar or identical attributes which may be included with all psionically sensitive species. Unfortunately, we have been unable to confirm this theory, and as of right now the genetic markers for Humans that appear to be tied to psionics are wholly different from Sectoid genetics.
What is also largely unknown is where the psion draws their power from, or what exactly they are using when they employ their abilities. Based on technical data and instances of psionic demonstrations, the strongest theory is that psions draw power from some imperceptible dimension and then manipulate it to serve their needs. This does not explain why different psions are able to use it so differently, but it provides an explanation as to where their power comes from, and why other species may not have it.
We are unable to confirm this theory without more psions, and have inquired with both the Collective and Greater Hive Commanders for additional information. In theory, it then should be possible to induce a similar sensitivity in non-psions, which was the other major area we have investigated.
Artificial Psionic Awakening: The psions currently in our possession were not awakened naturally, but by EXALT through a mixture of chemicals which should not have any noticeable effect. We have managed to acquire this formula, but as of yet we have not determined how this could have possibly awakened these Humans, as it is completely alien to known methods of psionic awakening, and EXALT had no solid idea of how psionics could work.
The theory this introduces is that, by some miracle, EXALT somehow managed to create a way to artificially induce psionic sensitivity in a Human. Without access to other psionic Humans, we have no way of confirming this, but it might explain why an otherwise dangerous drug would awaken psionic sensitivity. All the psions are of a similar strength, and two are bonded together, which seems to be an unlikely coincidence at best.
Unfortunately, the largest problem with this theory is that we have been unable to replicate the success with other Human or alien captives. This might be accepted with aliens, as this was designed to react with Human biology, but that has produced no results either. The other possible idea is that pushing a Human far enough (through stress, pain, or other means of inducing extreme mental states) might be enough to trigger a psionic awakening, and given the lethal nature of the drug, perhaps that is how it was intended to work.
With that said, if this were the case, there should be at least a few Humans who were able to be psionically awakened this way. The way these Humans have become psionic is extremely baffling, and there are no obvious explanations beyond that EXALT was simply extremely lucky.
Until proven otherwise, we will continue to work on identifying the needed genetic traits for psionic potential in Humans, and once that is complete, we will attempt to replicate them for Vitakara and potentially other species. While natural psionic awakening may be impossible, there is nothing to suggest that it could not be done artificially.
ADVENT Report P902
Research Type: Psionic
Species Observed: Human, Vitakara, Muton, Andromedon
Overseer: PRIEST Program Director Dr. Akilah Kettani
While investigating the intricacies of psionic power, one aspect that we researched heavily was the effects psions actually afflicted on their designated targets. The more we are able to understand the effects of psionic usage from both the user and target, the easier we can utilize and optimize psionics for ADVENT. Categories will be based on the psionic disciplines (Offensive, Defensive, Telekinesis, Telepathy), and research was conducted on multiple species through observation and interview. Captured aliens provided additional insight into the question of if psionics has a different effect on aliens than Humans.
SECTION 1: OFFENSIVE PSIONICS
Coming under a direct psionic attack is what can best be described as a harrowing experience. The vast majority do not survive, as Offensive-disciplined psions generally target multiple enemies at once and are not particularly concerned with enemy survivability. There are several different kinds of attacks that fall into the Offensive discipline:
Single-Target: The most common is a method that creates dangerous and rapidly shifting psionic bands around a singular target, and subsequently tears them apart. Each identified band is unstable and emits corrosive psionic energy which acts similar to an acid in that is destroys almost anything it comes into contact with. Unprotected enemies are killed in seconds, and even armored ones can suffer similar fates if vital organs are struck with corrosive psionic energy. One alien which was injured with such an attack used the words acid and fire to describe how it felt, and other Humans have reported similar sensations.
Multi-Target: Psions have developed a technique that is, for lack of a better word, a beam of psionic energy. This is accomplished by gathering a large amount of psionic power in one location, generally a hand, and then directing it in a specific direction. This ability has so far proven unable to be stopped, and has similar effects to a high-powered laser beam in that it cuts through almost anything easily, though unlike a laser, is far messier in the aftermath.
The other ability is the ability of the psion to create a storm of psionic energy referred to as a 'rift'. This is exactly what is sounds like, which is a barely controlled storm of psionic energy over a particular area which rips apart anything within its vicinity. It is one of the more difficult techniques to perform, but no one has yet survived being caught in a blast. Rifts do not leave behind remains, just shredded corpses and various body parts flung around. Identification of victims is difficult.
SECTION 2: DEFENSIVE PSIONICS
Unlike the previous discipline, the application of Defensive psionics has an extremely potent effect on allied forces. Contrary to what is commonly believed, Defensive-aptitude psions are capable of more than just creating shields. Skilled ones can trap enemies in stasis or temporarily freeze allies in place and render them invincible for a short time.
Their psionic shields have several variations, which often depend on the phase of combat. Traditional rectangle-like Shields are generally used during advances, which the psion creates in front of them to absorb enemy fire while allied forces get into position. Domed Shields are typically used when the current position is under heavy assault, and they are capable of withstanding extremely heavy bombardment. However, a downside of these shields is that allied forces are incapable of firing through them as well.
The most potent application of Defensive psionics is the ability for the psion to create a personal shield over a soldier, which appears visually to be a shimmering purple hologram superimposed over their body. It renders the soldiers nearly invincible, and has been observed to absorb plasma, rockets, hostile psionics, and explosives. This is difficult to perform, but skilled psions can maintain three or four at once, and this number is likely to increase as psions grow more in skill.
SECTION 3: TELEKINESIS
Telekinetics are an aspect that is extraordinarily simple, and yet can be applied so many different ways. There is almost no way to adequately defend against it outside of Defensive psionics, and going up against one is tantamount to suicide. The best case scenario one can hope for is to have your neck, or other vital organ unceremoniously snapped or destroyed.
Most telekines heavily favor using telekinesis to crush opponents. This leads to highly brutal and disturbing results including shattered bones, ripped skin, unnatural poses, nerve damage, and internal bleeding. Rapid compression of both alien and Human physiology often times rarely kills the individual immediately, but instead paralyzes them and renders them unable to move, and victims most die a slow and painful death due to internal bleeding.
More precise telekines simply kill their targets through precise manipulation of anatomy that is vital, such as snapping necks, or directly crushing specific parts of the body, such as the head. Other methods are used to cripple enemies, such as snapping the legs of opponents to quickly take out an opposing force, even if not directly killing them. Other tactical uses involve telekinetically pulling the weapons of an alien force away, or using it to catch thrown or launched projectiles, and throwing them back.
Telekines can also use their abilities in a supporting way, such as making our own explosives and weapons more accurate. They can also render any enemy firing physical projectiles useless by the creation of a telekinetic field which can catch shot projectiles. They could also manipulate the environment by creating disruptive sand or snowstorms, using debris as improvised missiles, or pulling damaged buildings down onto enemy positions.
A telekine might just be the most dangerous discipline because of how completely versatile they are, and their abilities are almost impossible to be negated.
SECTION 4: TELEPATHY
What is extremely important to understand about the victims of telepathy is that they have no idea they are being controlled. Once the telepath accesses their mind, they can literally force the victim to think and do whatever they wish. They will not know they are under psionic attack, and they will follow mental commands without question because they do not know any better.
The invasive implications of telepathy have yet to be fully realized. Typically, victims of telepathy (Especially aliens), are rendered mentally unstable and suffer dangerous breakdowns due to what they have been forced to do despite not being in control. Suicidal thoughts and actions are most invasive, and as of right now very few who have come under telepathic attack will ever trust themselves, or anyone else. Some reasons given for wishing to be euthanized stem from not wanting to be put in a position where they could hurt more people.
In this respect, Humans and Vitakara have extremely similar psychological reactions to being telepathically assaulted, though more Vitakara have attempted to kill themselves than Humans, largely because of being forced to participate and murder their own soldiers, sometimes in inhumane ways. The few Vitakara we recovered still alive from Las Vegas had either attempted to kill themselves, or were completely mentally broken. Considering the implications of what happened, I do not entirely blame them.
There is absolutely nothing stopping a psion from implementing 'protocols' within a victim, such as instructions of what to do at certain times which will persist after the psion leaves the victim's mind. This introduces the possibility of creating psionic sleeper agents who have no choice but to unwillingly follow their orders. In theory, it is also possible to do this with the victim being aware of what is happening, which would be quite torturous in itself.
While the offensive use of telepathy is highly destructive and will disrupt the mental state of anyone forcibly taken control of, there are other aspects of telepathy that are not nearly as dangerous. It is possible for telepaths to mentally connect with a group of people, and pool their collective knowledge of what is happening, in addition to granting better reflexes, focus, and the reinforcement of positive emotions which can be critical in situations where morale is close to breaking.
Humans who have taken part in these telepathic melds have described noticing an immediate change in how they performed, and any hesitation they felt about anything vanished, with only determination, courage, and similar encouragement left. They also describe knowing things they should not have, such as enemy positions they cannot see, yet they are capable of immediately moving from shooting one enemy to another with virtually no delay.
It is also not uncommon for psions in training to consent to letting telepaths experiment with their powers on them. This is fairly rare, but there are instances where such has been reported. Telepaths are also far less likely to fall under hostile psionic telepathic attacks, and have the ability to shield allies from them as well.
However, there are ways which can disrupt or prevent telepathic attacks, but those generally require heavy cybernetic modification which many do not want to undergo even if the result is immunity from telepathic attacks. I suspect that this is the one discipline of psionics where there are more possibilities than even we can know right now. I believe more applications will be discovered as this war progresses.
The mind and how we perceive the world is complex, and having control of it is not something that should be undertaken lightly.
XCOM Project File 0102
Project Codename: "Mind Heist"
Project Type: Psionic Research
Latest Revision: 10/22/2016
Authors: Head of XCOM Research and Development, Dr. Moira Vahlen; Overseer of Psionic Operations Patricia Trask; Aegis
Additional Comments: Templar Chan Jin-Taek
OVERVIEW
The enigmatic power that is commonly referred to as 'psionics' is the ability of certain individuals to manipulate certain elements of reality through psionic manipulation. This was first recorded in the Sectoid alien species, and has subsequently revealed Ethereals to also be psionically capable, in addition to Humanity. This document serves to provide an explanation as to what psionics are, and how they interact with, and affect the larger world. As such this document is expected to undergo many revisions as we learn more about this power.
THE PSIONOSPHERE THEORY
The first question to be answered in regards to this wide-ranging topic is this: What is psionics?
After extensive research, the most supported theory as to what psionic energy is and how it is manifested, is the concept of the Psionosphere. Much like time, the Psionosphere can be considered a dimension that, while it cannot be physically observed, nonetheless has a tangible impact on the world. Unlike a dimension like time, certain beings have the capacity to manipulate and draw power from the Psionosphere.
To further elaborate, we exist in a 3D material plane, and the Psionosphere is an additional plane that is superimposed atop it, which is imperceptible to the vast majority of beings both Human and alien. There is no evidence to suggest that there are any 'breaks' in this plane, and that the Psionosphere exists along every point of space with a roughly uniform density; to further clarify, there are no 'dead spots' or locations where psionics would simply not exist. This implies in theory that this rule would hold between intra and extra-galactic locations.
Psions themselves are beings that are capable of interacting with the material plane we exist in, through the Psionosphere itself. This allows them to perform otherwise impossible feats, and bypass remote action laws and negate the inverse square law. Technically, the psion has no limit to the range of their abilities, but most psions are better able to use their abilities based on what they can 'sense'.
The range of what a psion can sense is still not fully known, but it is directly proportional to the Trask Level of the psion in question. Their ability to sense within the Psionosphere is a flat radius, of which they are always the center of. Psions, and other psionic sources, have a noticeable footprint on the Psionosphere itself, which is referred to as a 'projection'. This is why psions are capable of performing feats which are beyond their immediate line of sight. The higher the Trask Level of the psion, the larger their projection is.
Psions are also able to be sensed far more easily in the Psionosphere due to having a tangible impact on it, even if that does not necessarily make them more vulnerable. This psionic projection within the Psionosphere is not necessarily the final limitation the psion has on utilizing their power. It does appear to be possible to form telepathic bonds or links across great distances, as the interactions between Aegis and the Commander, and Patricia and the Imperator, have shown.
As a psion can technically manipulate any point in the Psionosphere even if it is outside their projection, it is entirely possible for someone to master the ability to extend their influence beyond and 'map' the Psionosphere itself. However, such a feat would be extremely difficult and as the Psionosphere extends through all known reality, such an undertaking would likely return minimal results at best.
The Psionosphere itself does appear to obey several analogues of fundamental laws. Conservation of energy is the most apparent, as Psions are capable of exhausting themselves using their powers. It takes more energy to lift heavier objects, or influence more than one mind. Some telepaths are able to transfer energy from one source to another, but are unable to create it on their own. Power cannot be created, only drawn from something else.
At first glance, this does not appear to hold true for more offensive applications of psionics, such as being able to manifest chemical or physical effects at a distance. At first there was a question of if this rule did not apply to certain aspects of psionics, but further research indicates that this is not the case. This is elaborated on below with each identified discipline.
Addendum – Aegis: This is an excellent explanation that is highly similar to our own theory. There was little dispute that psionics was the manipulation of a higher dimension, though what exactly that dimension entailed and the rules it followed was a continuous subject of debate. I would contend that your theory about psionic projections being the main way of manipulating the Psionosphere is incorrect. There are ways of exercising power through the galaxy that is well beyond simply your immediate reach. "Mapping" the Psionosphere as it is put is also not as difficult as you imagine. You have stated the psions can manipulate it, so it then stands to reason that a powerful psion could manipulate it to render this issue much less important.
Your presumption that there are no such things as psionic 'dead spots' is highly debatable. While I have seen nothing that I would say indicates the absence of the Psionosphere…there are places in the galaxy where it does not exist as we understand it. It is weak at best, and completely gone at worst. People who inhabit these places simply cannot exist for long, and the ones that survive are…changed.
These phenomenons were of high interest to the Empire, and the experiments run there were under heavy guard. I was not privy to what they learned, but what I do know is that being sent to one was a fate worse than death. Perhaps the Imperator knows what they were, but I am afraid I know little more than that.
This is what the Dead World is. I would suggest you avoid any others whenever possible.
EXPLANATION OF PSIONIC DISCIPLINES
OVERVIEW: Not every psion is initially able to fully manipulate the Psionosphere, but most do have an innate ability to manipulate it to perform certain actions. As of yet, we are unable to determine why some psions are innately better at certain disciplines than others. However, just because a psion is innately capable of a certain discipline, does not mean they could not master other aspects. In theory, one psion could master the manipulation of the Psionosphere, although it would take years at minimum. Note that this is not related to the psion's Trask Level.
The four identified disciplines are the following:
Offensive: Primarily specializes in destructive psionic usage.
Defensive: Primarily specializes in defensive psionic usage.
Telekinetic: Specializes in telekinetics.
Telepath: Specializes in the manipulation and domination of minds.
Addendum – Aegis: This is the correct breakdown of specializations. However, Ethereals tended to fully master one or more of these disciplines, and even the weakest Ethereal is capable to some degree of all four, with the exception of Battlemasters. Ethereals had areas they did specialize in, but it was by no means the only thing they were good at.
OFFENSIVE: To further elaborate on the point mentioned above, about Offensive-disciplines psions not violating the Conservation of Energy, the explanation is that psions trained in this discipline do not manifest energy, but instead is the result of tearing the Psionosphere itself. Damaging the Psionosphere results in releasing corrosive and destructive energy, which is why Rifts and Psionic Tearing are immediately lethal.
When the psion creates a Rift, they are creating tears in the Psionosphere around a specific area and the longer the Psionosphere stays damaged, the more dangerous it will become. There have also been noted instances of friendly and alien soldiers seeing strange things within the brief glimpse into the Psionosphere, which they would otherwise never see. The effects of this exposure are unknown, but it has left both Humans and aliens affected.
What we can also observe from this is that the Psionosphere itself is capable of self-repairing instantly. Once a psion stops tearing the Psionosphere, the energy will vanish. In addition to ripping the Psionosphere at specific locations, psions can draw power directly from the ripped dimension and direct it towards a specific area. This is why psions of this discipline wound themselves while using their abilities, while those of other disciplines do not. They rip the Psionosphere around their arms and hands, which causes damage, but also allows them to acquire the destructive power of psionics they cannot manipulate with other disciplines.
DEFENSIVE: Psions who are partial to the Defensive aptitude of psionics manipulate the Psionosphere in perhaps the most visible way. They are primarily recognized for their ability to manifest psionic shields. The explanation for how this is done is that they 'harden' a certain section of the Psionosphere until it is physically manifested in the material plane.
This can be modified into an infinite number of different shapes, though simplicity makes it easier. However, there is no restriction on creating multiple separate shields, or even entire structures out of nothing but the hardened Psionosphere.
Psions also can give the illusion of 'moving' their shields forward, which is technically an illusion. When a psion 'moves' a psionic shield of any kind forward, they are simply transferring the energy across to another point in the material plane. It is easiest to imagine it in terms of individual 'frames' much like how animation is nothing more than pictures strung together fast, so is the moving of a psionic shield. While this requires some additional concentration on the part of the psion, it is not as difficult as perhaps imagined.
This is also why Defensive-disciplined psions can generally only fully protect one or two individuals at a time. It is not a personal shield over them that just stays in place, but one that must constantly be moved to be effective. Best results are achieved when a low-level telepathic link is established, even if it is not required.
In theory, there is no limit to what a psionic shield can 'endure'. The Psionosphere cannot be damaged by material objects, but continued upkeep will mentally exhaust the psion, and lapses in concentration can be enough to shatter the psionic shield. However, a psion can quite easily harden the Psionosphere again, and repeat the process again.
These psions also have several offensive uses. The rapid movement of hardened Psionosphere shields is one which can inflict blunt trauma, and can theoretically be instantly moved around as the psion wishes, since they do not 'move' the shield as traditionally understood. Another method of 'attack' is hardening the Psionosphere around hostile units, effectively freezing them in place and unable to attack, nor defend themselves. This has the effect of rendering them immune from attack, but in certain situations, that can be preferable.
TELEKINESIS: To return to the original topic of the Psionosphere, it bears repeating that it exists in all aspects of reality, and any point can theoretically be manipulated by a psion. This how telekines are able to use their abilities to seemingly develop infinite and versatile uses for their powers. Telekines are able to directly manipulate one or multiple points of the Psionosphere.
This fine control allows them to manipulate nearly any object by lifting, pushing, crushing, or otherwise physically affecting it. Psionic telekinesis is curious for several reasons because telekines perceive their powers in different ways. Some use it as an extension of their hand, which they say they can move and grasp with a high degree of accuracy.
Others have compared it to the manipulation of strings, of which everything in existence has as an attribute; strings which they can pluck and lift into the air, throw back, or wrap around and crush. Magus Hawkins has described them as "Invisible but not." Perhaps indicating that he is powerful enough to see aspects of the psionosphere others cannot.
This is quite possibly the case, as the String Theory of Telekinesis seems to apply to telekines of a higher Trask Level than that of the Extended Reach Theory of Telekinesis, which telekines of a lower Trask Level tend to recognize.
It should also be noted that telekinesis can be applied to potentially a cellular level, and is not restricted to purely macro manipulation, but micromanipulation as well. This clearly requires a delicacy from the telekine in question, but even the simple destruction of something on a cellular level could provide new means of usage beyond lifting things into the air.
While the material plane is definitely affected by the Psionosphere, it does also appear to modify just how effective psionics are. While a telekine is capable of collapsing a building, they will find it far harder to do than lifting a car because the building is generally larger, made out of better material, and anchored to the ground. Physical characteristics do affect how resistant certain things are against telekines, which we should utilize in our own defense against them.
TELEPATHY: Telepathy is perhaps one of the hardest to fully measure and determine, but nonetheless there are several explanations for how psionic telepathy is possible. Everything is connected through the Psionosphere, and that includes minds, thoughts, and emotions. Telepaths manipulate the Psionosphere to enter, affect, or otherwise influence the minds of other beings.
This then introduces the question of how much emotions and thoughts connect to the Psionosphere itself, and since telepaths are capable of not only accessing minds through the Psionosphere, but directly manipulating them, it does not seem impossible that all beings are, on some level, connected to the Psionosphere.
This would explain why almost all telepaths have reported that they are able to visualize minds on a plane, sometimes colored or not, but always a plane with 'points' which are other minds. Unlike most disciplines, telepaths act almost exclusively through the Psionosphere to manifest their powers. And as the Psionosphere permeates everything, this gives telepaths complete and utter control over the minds they enter.
The effects are only limited by imagination. Memories can be created and replaced; personalities can be changed or rewritten, the very world around them can be changed to be perceived as the telepath sees it, the brain can be forced to turn on the body, and they can be ordered to do things without ever thinking anything is wrong.
Conversely, they manipulate the Psionosphere plane where the minds are located to prevent similar manipulation, and positively affect the beings they wish through enhancing their minds and perception. It should also be noted that telepaths are generally able to have a much larger range on their powers, primarily because they spend the majority of their time within the Psionosphere plane itself.
THE TRASK SCALE OF PSIONIC POWER
The Trask Scale, officially created by ADVENT is the means of measuring psionic power which XCOM has also adopted as its official measurement system for psions. Named for the first known Human psion, Patricia Trask, psionic power is measured in "Trasks" which currently extend from 1 to 100, although this is only named ranks. Certain aliens such as Ethereals have Trask levels higher than 100.
What is important to understand about the Trask Scale is that is not an indication of skill, but one of range. A psion of a lower Trask level can be just as skilled as one with a high Trask level, but simply not be able to have as great an effect as they would otherwise.
For example, compare two telepath psions, one of a high Trask level, and one of a lower one. Let us imagine that the lower one is capable of manipulating three minds. He cannot affect more than that, but with the three he has control over, he can essentially do whatever he wishes with them. In contrast, the higher-level one is capable of affecting an entire planet's worth of minds, but he can only issue simple commands. Of the two, which is more skilled?
Again, the Trask Scale only determines the range of the psion's abilities, not necessarily how powerful they are. Traditional logic leads to the assumption that higher Trask levels are more powerful, and as a general rule, that is correct, but remember that power doesn't not always equal skill.
Addendum – Aegis: This is a fair way of determining psionic power. It is not quite as extensive as the ways of the Empire, but having some form of measurement is far better than having none at all.
TEMPLARS AND PSIONIC UTILIZATION (Section Author: Templar Chan Jin-Taek)
The usage of our psionic powers does slightly differ from pure psions, but it is not perhaps as different as you would expect. The largest difference is that of scale. We don't affect entire city blocks like some psions, nor lift people in the air by the dozens. Often our own usage of psionics is much smaller and quicker, and typically incorporates our weapon of choice.
For example, I have trained in making my own greatsword burn with psionic energy. Reading what Dr. Vahlen has written above, what I do to make this work is lightly rip the Psionosphere surrounding my sword, which gives it a corrosive effect. It does damage the blade, but I do take steps to ensure it isn't crippling. When I do other kinds of psionic bursts of energy, they are very small and not as powerful.
To give another perspective, telekine Templars utilize their abilities more to unbalance, push, and distract their opponents. Sometimes they will freeze them in place temporarily, or control their own weapons with telekinesis. Smaller scale, as I said. I should guess it is obvious that the Defensive Templars like Iosif pretty much protect themselves, and sometimes others on smaller scales.
So that's the main difference between Templars and other psions. We're a lot smaller-scale and mobile, which I think has its place in battle.
Addendum – Aegis: This is quite similar to the philosophy of the Division of Battlemasters.
PSIONICS AND INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY
While it is primarily living beings who are able to manipulate the Psionosphere, it is possible for objects to draw from it as well. It is not nearly as versatile or powerful as a general rule, largely only fulfilling a specific purpose, and largely one that is not highly complex. Other, primarily Sectoid technology, is capable of recognizing various uses of psionics and performing specific actions.
Much of their computers and vehicles rely on a small psionic link with the user, which results in their technology being almost impossible to navigate without being a psion themselves. However, even this is not largely complex and is capable of being transferred to a format which does not require psionics.
The gauntlets recovered from the Sectoid Vanguard are another example of a piece of technology receiving psionic power, although not directly accessing the Psionosphere itself, and performing a specific action. As Shen theorizes, this kind of technology could allow us to manipulate the Psionosphere as we wish without necessarily requiring the natural skills.
CONCLUSION
While we have discovered much about psionics already, there is far more that we still have to learn. The study of psionics is one that will likely never be fully explained, and our ability to manipulate the Psionosphere will likely only increase as we discover new methods. But one continuing goal of XCOM should not be to recreate the feats of the Ethereals or Sectoids, but forge our own understanding of psionics into something unexpected.
We have the capability, all that is required is the imagination and the willingness to challenge what the word 'impossible' really means.
CODEX File ****
Subject: The Malleable Dimensions
Location: Blacksite ***
Author: Geneticist Revelean
Our species has always been the masters of the power we understand as psionics, but occasionally the question of why appears in my mind. Considering our origins, our aptitude for comprehending the Gift that is psionics must have been an intentional design choice. But again, the question of why still remains.
Were we intended to use this gift against a certain enemy? The Synthesized or someone else? Gifting another species the ability to manipulate an unseen dimension of the universe is not one given lightly, yet we control it all the same. And we are not alone in this; the gift is one that other species have attempted to master over the millennia, and still more likely will in the future.
Yet psionics is not the only invisible, yet altering force in the universe, but it is one we can manipulate. For thousands of years we have believed the others were simply impossible or out of reach; laws of nature that even we cannot choose to alter. Yet I find myself questioning this perception more and more. Elements that altered the physical world drove our Empire; perhaps to ruin, but it drove us all the same.
These exist, and there are likely others out there, untainted by the trap of what brought us down, but is it yet another trap to lull us into following an unseen path? How much of this galaxy is intentionally designed; how much of it is trapped; seeming discoveries in reality being traps designed to push entire species towards unseen and unknown goals?
Prior to the War, such questions would have been ludicrous. The idea that elements that could alter the galaxy could simply be lures for invisible traps was little more than paranoia. Yet the Synthesized, the Sovereign Ones, the discovery of other species capable of the Gift…it makes me all the more suspicious of what the future holds.
If we are capable of manipulating one unseen dimension, what is to say that we cannot teach ourselves to learn the others? Dark energy, time, these affect the same realms as psionics yet we are just as blind to them as the Vitakara are to the Gift. Yet we do things that others consider impossible, and even our own usage of psionics has grown stagnant in the absence of a threat.
The more we learn of the galaxy, the more order is found in it, the more deception. It is unnatural. The ruins of civilizations long past only offer crumbs of knowledge as to what the greater plan is, but all we can do now is do what might be unexpected.
I am beginning to see the Imperator's concerns. We must tread carefully for we potentially risk making enemies of greater powers than even ourselves.