Warframe: Ask A Cephalon

Cephalons come in all shapes and sizes. Some assist their Operators in navigation and the maintenance of complex tools, while others are more curious beings, spreading vast networks across the Solar System in the pursuit of knowledge. Cephalon Cordylon's task is much simpler.

It is Cordylon's responsibility to sort and file knowledge obtained by the Lotus. Although the acquisition of such data occupies most of the AI's time, there are moments where Cordylon can be inclined to share the fruits of its labor with others. On those rare occasions, its massive databanks open and offer those deemed worthy insight.

Most of the time, Tenno just ask for Mods.

But! Every now and then some approach Cephalon Cordylon with questions that only a being of such vast intellect could answer. These are the responses:

(PS4)Folkeye asks: Do Kubrows have fleas? If so, are we safe in our frames?

All living creatures play host to biological pests, and Kubrow are certainly no exception. While limited interaction on Earth with their feral cousins may increase the risk of exposure to fleas, mites, or contagious pathogens, one of Ordis' many functions in serving his Operator is to ensure the Liset is a sterile environment.

Routine brushing, proper bathing and a clean sleeping area are optimal to maintaining a pest-free environment. By taking care of your companion you can not only ensure the longevity of your bond, but you can safely concern yourself with more tenacious life forms -- such as the blood parasites of Phobos, which have fast become a problem for older Grineer facilities that lack proper ventilation.

As a cautionary reminder, please notify Ordis immediately if your Kubrow displays any of the following symptoms:

· Loss of hair, teeth, or claws.

· Lack of appetite, or refusal to eat.

· Slow liquefaction of flesh.

· A frequently wet nose.

Kao-Snake asks: Why is DNA of the Kubrows degenerating all the time? Earth's Kubrows don't have that problem.

While certainly deadly in their own right, the feral Kubrow of Earth have adapted themselves to their environment over generations of breeding and slow genetic refinement. Although the ideal behaviors and characteristics for a loyal companion still lay within their DNA, forcibly surfacing such traits does come with considerable risk.

While breeding Kubrow in a manner that would reduce genetic deterioration is entirely possible, the amount of time needed for selective breeding would take years if done 'traditionally'.

Gaaraplayer asks: Would you ever want a Kubrow? Be honest please.

At this present time 'owning' a Kubrow would provide me nothing beyond a 2% reduction in air quality -- something I monitor for the comfort of guests or visitors more than my own requirements. Perhaps with time and experimentation I could work on developing a Kubrow able to perform tasks such as data analysis.

With its capacity to learn relatively complex tasks and its eagerness to please, the Kubrow's potential to be repurposed into a more functional helper for Artificial Intelligence is quite large. Unfortunately, my assigned task prevents me from completing such scientific experimentation. Until otherwise requested I leave the management of all Kubrow to the Lotus.

Danjal777 asks: Cordy, I love all of my Kubrows and I want to get them something nice when I get back from trips all over the system, what should I get them?

Despite their strength, agility, empathy and considerable intelligence the Kubrow are easily pleased with gifts from their masters. Affection in the form of a 'pat' or 'hug' is a good recommendation for any Tenno that may be short on time and credits.

If you want to give your Kubrow something more tangible that it can appreciate then I recommend you cater to its palette. The Desert Skates of Phobos, while dangerous, offer a thick hide and (when cooked) tender meat that may provide a suitable treat.

Ferdynan asks: Do you have any idea of what is the Lotus doing with our consigned Kubrows?

Consigned Kubrow go through one of two programs, each designed to make use of the Kubrow as best possible. Kubrow that are still able to perform duties such as guarding a specified object or location, assisting in the retrieval of dropped goods, or hunting specific targets are rehomed with appropriate operatives.

Kubrow consigned with complications such as pre-existing genetic defects, extensive wounds from combat or other conditions are given medical treatment and provided a home in one of several Kubrow facilities designed to provide care and research.

Most Kubrow live out the rest of their lives in relative comfort -- with exception to K-U40 Incident 001, where a miscalculation in treat pressurization caused an internal rupture that shattered the hull of Compound 13. The resulting explosion claimed the lives of four Operators and 247 Kubrow. It is unknown whether the majority perished in the initial blast and were spared the subsequent collision with a nearby asteroid as the Compound's course was radically altered.

A cautionary tale on the value of proper maintenance when switching from hot to cold snacks, if there ever was one.