Conrasu
Conrasus are a mysterious plant-like people native to the Mwangi Expanse. Given consciousness by unknown spiritual forces, they construct their forms from intricate wooden exoskeletons to interact with the world around them. Their nature casts them in a state of existential uncertainty, and they often seek the guidance of aeons to understand their place in the Universe.1
Appearance
Conrasus have two components to their appearance, with their true form interpreted by the mortal eye as a globe of light, darkness, or space. Their bodies are formed around this core from still-living wood, which they must constantly regrow to prevent it from hardening over time and reducing their mobility. These exoskeletons can vary in appearance, with each built to suit their purposes when called to a path. The physical body that they maintain is what most other people recognize to be a conrasu.1
Abilities
With the ability to shape their exoskeleton with living wood, conrasus can cultivate their forms to aid in their purpose-led callings. They can manipulate their exoskeleton to overlap itself for protection or grow natural weapons of reinforced knots and branches to defend themselves.1
As they are spiritually connected to aeons, conrasus can also tap into the plane of Axis for knowledge and guidance. This often manifests as meditations or rituals performed to strengthen their connection to natural aspects, such as sunlight or plant growth.1
Ecology
The life cycle of a conrasu is deeply tied to nature since their physical form is the product of plant matter. Their exoskeleton requires constant maintenance through the growing of new material, and neglect can harden their bodies to the point of immobility. Losing their body causes the conrasu to dissipate and pass away.1
Conrasus can also restore their vitality through direct exposure to sunlight.1
Society
Conrasus can be categorized into three distinct types:1
- Maintainers, who tend to others and cultivate balance
- Shapers, who build and direct others to maintain equilibrium
- Correctors, who serve as problem solvers and see the world in absolutes, with little room for exception
Some rare conrasus are called to service by other extraplanar forces and serve beneath psychopomps or archons. On occasion, others might adopt an unknown entity as a patron and become a witch. Each of these paths in conrasu life are influenced by the guidance of aeons and champion the values of balance and harmony in their dealings.1
Most conrasus begin their lives within enclaves, with the Creche considered foremost among them and the beating heart of their civilization. Here and within other enclaves, shapers tend to vast nurseries of trees, some of which sprout from severed conrasu limbs and can grow into a new conrasu and their exoskeleton. Another enclave is called the Copse, a place between the Creche and Lake Ocota where trees are cultivated for reinforcing young conrasu exoskeletons as they venture outward. Many conrasus spend time here to learn how to craft themselves as a tradition.1
Adventurers
A conrasu drawn to adventure is often affected by the role they might have held in their society. Maintainers are often drawn to become wizards, clerics, or bards, which allows them to contribute their unique connection to magic and knowledge in aid of their peers. Correctors might become champions or fighters while manipulating their exoskeletons to become protective armor or weaponry. The rare circumstances that might lead a shaper to adventure might also draw them to become a druid or bard, to travel with groups that allow them to accomplish missions outside of their enclaves. No matter their role, conrasus tend to come from similar backgrounds that reflect upon whether they are most comfortable at home or while exploring the open world.1