Aasimar - Fallen
Darkened Aasimar, Shadowsouls, Celestial-Fallen
Basic Information
Anatomy
Fallen Aasimar exhibit a dual nature in their physiology—retaining traces of their celestial ancestry while bearing marked features of shadow and decay. Their skin tones often range from ashen grey to dark charcoal, with faint, vein-like patterns of silver or black. The most striking feature is their eyes, which become pools of darkness when they summon their innate necrotic powers. In moments of heightened emotion or during combat, skeletal, ghostly wings manifest from their backs, though these cannot sustain flight.
Genetics and Reproduction
As former humans granted celestial powers, Fallen Aasimar retain typical humanoid reproductive biology. Their celestial heritage, however, is partially heritable, with offspring often inheriting faint celestial or shadow traits, though these manifest inconsistently. Among them, union and reproduction are marked by a ceremonial "Binding of Souls" where vows and celestial blessings are exchanged.
Ecology and Habitats
Optimal Environment: Fallen Aasimar thrive in regions infused with celestial or necrotic energies, where the boundary between realms is thin. Kaspax, a slum-city in the Whispering Alps, serves as an ideal refuge due to its proximity to the Vaults of the Ordning and its harsh, isolating environment, well-suited to their contemplative lifestyle.
Interactions with Habitat: In Kaspax, they often act as spiritual guides and explorers of the vaults. The fallen Aasimar are skilled at navigating shadows and rocky terrain, their presence blending with the eerie solitude of the mountains. They’ve formed a tight-knit society, living in small, subdued dwellings to avoid detection and reverently protect the vaults and surrounding land.
Behaviour
Behavioral Traits: They are introspective, possessing a unique balance of both celestial wisdom and a tendency toward melancholy. Many fallen Aasimar have a haunted demeanor, contemplative of their inner darkness, and are often wary in social interactions. They are driven by the need for purpose, frequently involving themselves in moral dilemmas, quests of redemption, or the defense of others, though their approach can be grim.
Psychology: Fallen Aasimar harbor complex emotional depths, often struggling between hope and despair. While prone to solitude, they seek bonds with those who share or understand their burden. They are introspective to a fault and tend to see the world in shades of grey, with a tolerance for moral ambiguity.
Additional Information
Average Intelligence
Above average, highly contemplative
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Fallen Aasimar retain enhanced night vision, allowing them to see in the dark as well as in low light. They have a unique affinity for necrotic energies, which enables them to perceive disturbances in the spiritual plane, giving them an acute sense for detecting lingering souls or dark presences. These perceptions often manifest in dreams or visions, though their messages are subtle and open to interpretation.
Civilization and Culture
Naming Traditions
Fallen Aasimar often adopt solemn names that reflect personal quests or celestial themes, often single syllable or compound names like Seren, Alden, Zephira, or Liora. They may adopt monikers of their own choosing, often reflecting internal struggles or aspirations for redemption.
Beauty Ideals
Beauty is seen in subtlety and quiet dignity. Marks of celestial heritage or "scars" from necrotic energies are seen as emblems of resilience. They prize grace over opulence, finding beauty in the reserved, patient, and contemplative.
Gender Ideals
Fallen Aasimar value roles based on strength of character and dedication rather than gender. Leaders are often chosen based on wisdom and spiritual endurance, with no expectation tied to gender.
Courtship Ideals
Courtship among the Fallen is typically reserved, based on shared experiences and mutual understanding rather than grand gestures. Tokens exchanged between partners are often small charms or carved symbols representing their spiritual journeys.
Relationship Ideals
Loyalty, honesty, and mutual support are prized in relationships. Fallen Aasimar often form strong bonds based on shared grief, redemption, and hope, with an understanding that each partner may struggle with inner darkness.
Common Etiquette Rules
Respect for others' struggles and personal space is paramount. Fallen Aasimar are soft-spoken, listen intently, and often observe a form of silent greeting by inclining their head. Direct and flamboyant expressions are rare, as they value sincerity over displays.
Common Dress Code
They wear dark, modest clothing, often adorned with subtle celestial symbols. Their attire is functional, suitable for Kaspax’s cold and mountainous environment, and generally avoids bright colors.
Culture and Cultural Heritage
The Fallen Aasimar maintain a connection to their celestial history through meditative practices, often centered on the stars or celestial symbols. While they no longer strictly follow celestial laws, they uphold certain principles of protection and wisdom learned from their past.
Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals
The "Hour of Shadows" is a nightly observance where Fallen Aasimar reflect on their actions and contemplate their past decisions. Some may spend this time in quiet prayer or meditation, seeking a sense of direction or absolution.
Common Taboos
Any misuse of necrotic powers or alliances with forces that seek to harm innocents is severely frowned upon. The Fallen have also developed an aversion to abandonment, seeing it as a betrayal of the collective's trust.
History
The Fallen Aasimar were once honored protectors and envoys of light, descending from human heroes who received celestial blessings during the Pandora War. Their separation from this purpose and the loss of celestial guidance marked a fall from grace. Isolated in Kaspax after the war, some Aasimar fell to despair or dark influences, becoming the "Fallen." When their brethren left Kaspax, the Fallen chose to stay, dedicating themselves to self-reflection, protection of the Ordning Vaults, and contemplation on the balance of light and darkness.
Common Myths and Legends
One prominent myth is that of Eiros, the First Fallen, who was the first Aasimar to turn away from celestial guidance. His story, passed down through generations, serves as both caution and inspiration—a reminder of the value of choice and the heavy cost of falling from grace. Another legend tells of the River of Stars, a celestial passage that some believe will one day allow the Fallen to rejoin their kin if they prove their worth.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Scientific Name
Celestia Umbra
Lifespan
~160 - inner conflict can cause premature ageing
Average Height
5'7" - 6'1"
Average Weight
130 -190 pounds
Average Physique
Lean and wiry, often with sinewy musculature due to a life spent in rugged environments
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
Shades of ash, dark gray, and obsidian tones. Silvered, vein-like marks across their skin that pulse when they use necrotic abilities. Eyes are usually dark with an occasional glint of silver or blue.
Geographic Distribution
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