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
Conrasu 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", created from still-living wood which they must constantly regrow to prevent the loss of mobility as the plant matter hardens over time. These exoskeletons have a variety of appearances, constructed to suit their purposes when they are 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 are able to cultivate their forms to help aid in their purpose-led callings. They may manipulate their exoskeleton to overlap itself for protection, or grow out natural weapons of reinforced knots and branches to defend themselves.
As they are spiritually connected to aeons, conrasus are also capable of tapping into the plane of Axis for knowledge and guidance. These often manifest as meditations or rituals that are 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 the natural world, as their physical form is a product of plant matter. Their exoskeleton requires constant maintenance through the growing of new material, as neglect may cause their bodies to harden to immobility. Losing this body will cause the conrasu to dissipate and pass away. 1
Conrasus are also able to restore their vitality through direct exposure to sunlight. 1
Adventurers
A conrasu that is drawn to adventure is often affected by the role they may have held in their society. Maintainers are often drawn to become wizards, clerics, or bards, as it allows them to contribute their unique connection to magic and knowledge to aid their peers. In turn, correctors might become champions or fighters while manipulating their exoskeletons to become protective armor or weaponry. Rare occasions that might bring a shaper to adventure may draw them to become a druid or even a bard, often travelling with groups that allow them to accomplish missions outside of their enclaves. No matter their role, conrasu tend to come from similar backgrounds that reflect upon whether they are most comfortable at home or while exploring the open world.
Society
Conrasus can be categorized into three distinct types: Maintainers, who tend to others and cultivate balance; Shapers, who build and direct others to maintain equilibrium; and Correctors, who serve as problem solvers that see the world in absolutes, with little room for exception. Some rare conrasus are called to service by other extraplanar forces, serving beneath psychopomps or archons. Occasionally, they 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, championing the values of balance and harmony in their dealings.
Most conrasu begin their lives within enclaves, with the Creche considered to be the foremost among them and the beating heart of their civilization. Here and within other enclaves, shapers tend to vast nurseries of trees, with those that sprout from severed conrasu limbs having the potential to 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 the reinforcing of young conrasu exoskeletons as they venture outwards. Many conrasus spend time here to learn how to craft themselves as a tradition. 1
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 Laura-Shay Adams et al. (2021). The Mwangi Expanse, p. 106–109. Paizo Inc. ISBN 978-1-64078-340-9