Ben 10 Alien Species Headcannons: Tetramands
Here’s installment number two in this new headcannon series. As I mentioned at the end of the first one on the Galvanic Mechamorphs, I will cover the original muscle alien race of the franchise, the Tetramands!
This installment will mostly consist of cultural headcannons, although I do have some biology ones to add.
In both continuities, the Tetramands are portrayed as a barbarian-like warrior race, being generally blood-thirsty and hitting first then asking questions later. I’ll admit it was a bit jarring to learn that the reboot continuity shares the same culture as the classic continuity, since it contradicts the lighter-hearted tone of the reboot.
At the same time, though, they’re supposed to be a badass species of warriors by virtue of having extreme strength. so one can’t completely do a 180 on their culture.
Thus, I’ve come up with an alternative culture for them that makes them more civil, yet still of tremendous strength. It’s more or less built directly off of Ancient Greek Culture. I always felt that a similar culture would fit them, and help deter the stereotype of being seen as a dumb muscle species.
First up, the biology headcannons:
-Most Tetramands are red like before, although there can now be varying shades of red, such as orange and pink. Rarer skin colors like blue and brown are still possible, however.
-As mentioned in my third power headcannon post, Tetramands are able to undergo brief muscle growth at will, doubling their strength in the process. However, being in this state drains their stamina much faster than normal. Thus, most only do so when absolutely necessary.
-Males are now able to have more hair like females. Hair on males is not as common as females, however.
-Tetramand skin is leather-like in its property, and thus is highly resistant to attacks that would severely wound a human. For example, most civilian-grade ammunition would deal no damage to them (they’d get royally pissed instead).
-Tetramands are born with physically fit bodies. Thanks to their diets and regular physical activity, they are easily able to maintain their physique for their entire lives.
Now for the main meat of this installment; the culture headcannons:
-Tetramands were once like their cannon selves; ruthlessly attacking their prey and rival tribes with brute force and cruelty. As time has passed, however, they have mellowed down as they find that bonds with each other is key to their overall survival, especially as resources are used up.
-Tetramand culture is analogues to the Ancient Greek civilization of Earth. Most of all, the Tetramands have a religion of gods and goddesses of all aspects of life, from nature, to the hunt, to the seas. Unlike the Greek gods, however, it is not seen as damning to speak ill of them (though general consensus is to at least tolerate them).
-The architecture of Tetramand buildings is based on Ancient Greek design, but with contemporary aesthetics added in.
-Despite their great strength, the Tetramands are actually very much capable of deep thought. Much like Plato and Aristotle, they are known for their thought-provoking philosophical debates on a wide range of subjects, like how to determine ones true purpose in life.
-Off of the same token, Tetramands are also known for being surprisingly intelligent. They had already developed both full mathematics and science foundations before crossing paths with the Galvans. Thus, they’re an example of the Genius Bruiser; strong yet intelligent.
-Tetramands do have access to advanced technology, even if it’s not at the same level as the Galvans.
-Despite having access to things like video games and TV shows, most Tetramand youth still spend a good amount of time partaking in physical activities as well.
-Tetramand government is a Monarchy, with a royal family tracing back many generations currently in power. The overall leader can be either male or female, depending on which member is the strongest. Despite being in a monarchy, the royal family makes sure that their people are treated with respect and are given opportunities to grow in the social ladder, as well as have access to vital resources.
-The biggest social event for the Tetramands is their Grand Wrestling Tournament. Not only are riches bestowed to the champion, but so is a high honor in society for perfecting their strength to overcome all opponents. Especially if one can dethrone the reigning champion. The tournament is broadcast on many planets, with well over 5 million viewers each year.
-Despite their cultural origins and strength, Tetramands are Martial Pacifists, only engaging in warfare when necessary. One instance is when they aided the Petrosapiens in their war against the Subsapiens (in reality the Antrosapiens), which they were losing before reinforcements arrived. The Tetramands and the Petrosapiens share a strong bond for each other, by the way.
Whew! That was a good amount of headcannons there. I’m happy with how they turned out.
I’m not immediately sure who will be next. I think I will need to give it some thought first.
As always, feel free to suggest your own headcannons for species from across the franchise!