What is "paradine"

The Paradine are a fictional race in the science fiction universe of Gene Roddenberry's Andromeda television series.

In Andromeda, the Paradines are both referred to as evolved Vedrans, as well as the first race of sentient beings in the galaxy. Trance Gemini hypothesizes that the Paradines may have had a "hand in its [the universe's] creation". These problems are not expanded upon or resolved during the show's run.

They are described as a race of beings who are ever present, especially at crucial times in galactic history. The Fall of the Systems Commonwealth was considered such an event. According to Vedran legend, the Fall of the Systems Commonwealth was foretold, as was the coming of the Spirit of the Abyss and its legions of Magog. A threat of this magnitude spelled doom for all sentient species in the universe, unless they united. Paradines can also step through time and space, both literally and figuratively. However, these powers are not often used during the show because according to a paradine, there is too much at stake whenever steps are made. Dylan Hunt, the captain of the Andromeda Ascendant is a Paradine and according to a message from another Paradine, Flavin, the last one in existence. The rest were wiped out by Maura, Avatar of the Abyss.