Kalashtar

The kalashtar are a compound race created from the union of humanity and renegade spirits from the plane of dreams — spirits called quori. Kalashtar are often seen as wise, spiritual people with great compassion for others. But there is an unmistakable alien quality to the kalashtar, as they are haunted by the conflicts of their otherworldly spirits.
Every kalashtar has a connection to a spirit of light, a bond shared by other members of their bloodline. Kalashtar appear human, but their spiritual connection affects them in a variety of ways. Kalashtar have symmetrical, slightly angular features, and their eyes often glow when they are focused or expressing strong emotions. Kalashtar can’t directly communicate with their quori spirits. Rather, they might experience this relationship as a sense of instinct and inspiration, drawing on the memories of the spirit when they dream. This connection grants kalashtar minor psionic abilities, as well as protection from psychic attacks. All of these quori dream-spirits are virtuous, but some are warriors and others are more contemplative. Work together with the DM to determine the nature of your linked spirit. Typically, a kalashtar knows the name and nature of their spirit, but some may know nothing of their spirit or the source of their psychic gifts, such as an orphan kalashtar raised among strangers.
The virtuous spirits tied to the kalashtar fled from the dream-realm of Dal Quor to escape evil spirits that dominate it. The rebel quori believe that through meditation and devotion, they can change the fundamental nature of Dal Quor, shifting the balance from darkness to light. Most kalashtar communities focus on acts of devotion known as the Path of Light. But the dark powers of Dal Quor have their own plans for Eberron. Through the force known as the Dreaming Dark, these monsters manipulate the folk of Khorvaire to eliminate kalashtar whenever possible. Many kalashtar defend themselves from the Dreaming Dark by focusing on devotion to the Path of Light. Others, though, seek out the agents of the Dreaming Dark and oppose their plans, or protect the innocent however they can. Still other kalashtar grow up isolated, knowing nothing about Dal Quor or the Dreaming Dark. Such orphans might use their abilities for personal gain or otherwise act against the virtuous instincts of their quori spirits; this can cause internal conflicts and violent mood swings.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Kalashtar resemble humans but have distinct features reflective of their dual nature. They possess slender, graceful builds, often slightly taller than average humans. Their eyes have an otherworldly sheen, giving an impression of shifting light within, and their facial expressions are serene yet intense. The quori spirit within them subtly affects their features, granting an ageless quality and a slight glow to their skin, especially in low light.

Genetics and Reproduction

The Kalashtar lineage is carried through generations, with each new child bonding with a portion of a parent’s quori spirit. This transference is mystical rather than genetic, creating a mental imprint on the offspring. While they reproduce in the same manner as humans, each Kalashtar child inherits a unique psychic connection, blending human and quori consciousness.

Ecology and Habitats

The Kalashtar thrive in isolated, serene environments, such as the mountainous Whispering Alps. They live in Zaswar, a secluded village, where they can meditate, train their minds, and practice dream protection without interruption. This landscape, with its whispering winds and secluded beauty, aligns with their need for spiritual solitude and harmony, allowing them to guard against potential threats from the dream realm.

Behaviour

Kalashtar are highly introspective, calm, and compassionate. While they exude an otherworldly grace, there is a subtle melancholy to their demeanor, stemming from their awareness of the quori’s struggles. They are disciplined and avoid excess in emotion or action, valuing balance, peace, and empathy. Though gentle by nature, Kalashtar can be fierce defenders of their community and values when confronted by malevolent forces from the dream realm.

Additional Information

Average Intelligence

Above human average, with an emphasis on wisdom, introspection, and insight.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Due to their bond with the quori, Kalashtar have highly developed telepathic abilities and can communicate with others mentally. This bond enhances their intuition, allowing them to sense the emotions and intentions of others. In addition, they are sensitive to disturbances in the Plane of Dreams, enabling them to detect approaching psychic threats and shifts in dream energies.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

Names are chosen to reflect both human and quori heritage, often carrying dream-related meanings. Kalashtar names are melodic and mystical, such as Tashira, Vaidun, or Qeshara, with an emphasis on soft sounds and flowing syllables.

Beauty Ideals

The Kalashtar value inner tranquility and empathy over physical attributes. They find beauty in an aura of calm and wisdom, with eyes that express kindness and resolve. Subtle markings or symbols that represent dreams, the quori bond, or spiritual ideals are seen as beautiful adornments.

Gender Ideals

Kalashtar society values personal integrity and mental strength over traditional gender roles. Both men and women are encouraged to pursue spiritual wisdom, hone their psychic abilities, and practice disciplines that align with their bond to the quori. Respect for individual strengths and unity in purpose transcends specific gender expectations.

Courtship Ideals

Kalashtar courtship is a serene and deliberate process, focusing on mental and emotional compatibility. Partners spend time in meditation, dream-sharing, and discussing philosophy. Emotional transparency and mutual respect are valued, and unions are often based on a shared commitment to community and spiritual growth.

Relationship Ideals

Relationships are built on empathy, loyalty, and shared purpose. Partners view themselves as both companions and co-guardians of their unique bond to the Plane of Dreams. Kalashtar unions are founded on respect for each other’s inner world and the understanding that each partner is simultaneously bonded to a quori.

Common Etiquette Rules

Politeness, listening, and self-restraint are core values in Kalashtar etiquette. Maintaining a serene presence and avoiding raised voices or outward displays of aggression is customary. The Kalashtar greet each other by placing a hand over their heart and bowing slightly to symbolize mutual respect and shared understanding.

Common Dress Code

Kalashtar dress is simple, made from natural materials in muted, earth-toned colors to reflect their connection to nature and dreams. Flowing robes, scarves, and symbolic jewelry or beads are common, often adorned with intricate designs symbolizing peace, dreams, or wisdom. Ceremonial attire includes subtle patterns reflecting the quori connection.

Culture and Cultural Heritage

The Harmonious Resonance 5th Veritas is a sacred holiday celebrated by the Kalashtar people of Zaswar, honoring the unique bond between their human souls and the Quori spirits from the Plane of Dreams. This day is dedicated to the unity of mind and spirit, as well as the pursuit of inner peace and collective harmony within the community. The holiday begins with the Dawn Meditation, where the Kalashtar gather in silence to meditate and attune themselves to the subtle whispers of their Quori spirits. This meditation is believed to strengthen the connection between the two souls, allowing for deeper understanding and balance.
Throughout the day, the streets of Zaswar are filled with Resonance Chants, rhythmic songs that are sung in unison by the community. These chants are said to create a harmonious vibration that resonates with the energy of the Plane of Dreams, bringing tranquility and clarity to all who participate.
The holiday culminates in the Dreaming Circle, where the Kalashtar gather under the night sky to share their dreams and visions. These shared experiences are seen as a way to strengthen communal bonds and to gain insights into the future. The Dreaming Circle is a time of reflection, where the Kalashtar seek guidance from their Quori spirits and reaffirm their commitment to living in harmony with both their inner selves and their community.
The Harmonious Resonance is a day of spiritual renewal, unity, and deep connection, celebrating the unique duality of the Kalashtar people and their journey towards inner and outer peace.

Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals

The Kalashtar have a rich spiritual heritage, rooted in dream protection and mental discipline. They practice meditative arts, dream interpretation, and subtle rituals to honor their quori spirits. Knowledge is passed down through teachings and dream-sharing sessions, forming a cohesive collective memory among the Kalashtar.

• Dream Rituals: Daily rituals involve meditation and silent communion with the quori, helping Kalashtar maintain balance and honor their bond.
• Seeker’s Gathering: An annual event where Kalashtar discuss philosophy, share dreams, and honor their lineage.
• Celestial Vigil: During rare celestial alignments, they gather for extended meditation to reinforce their connection to the Plane of Dreams.

Common Taboos

Dream Manipulation: Using dream powers selfishly or harmfully is strictly forbidden. Emotional Outbursts: Losing control over one’s emotions is seen as dishonoring the quori and one’s inner discipline. Breaking Telepathic Trust: Using telepathy unethically, such as invading private thoughts, is a severe breach of Kalashtar ethics.

History

The Kalashtar are a group of people that stemmed from a small tribe at the base of the Whispering Alps, this tribe had attempted to contact the lost spirits from a conflict known as the Dreamweaving (760AD)
The Dreamweaving was a mystical and transformative incident where the Plane of Dreams briefly connected with this secluded tribe of humans, forever altering their fate. One night, as the tribe slept beneath a rare celestial alignment, the barriers between their world and the Plane of Dreams thinned. In their slumber, the tribe's dreams intertwined with the essence of Quori spirits from the dream realm, forging an unbreakable bond.
When the tribe awoke, they found themselves changed—no longer mere humans, but Kalashtar, beings with a dual nature, sharing their minds with the Quori. The Dreamweaving bestowed upon them heightened psychic abilities and a deep connection to the Plane of Dreams. This incident became a pivotal moment in their history, marking the birth of a new lineage of Kalashtar, guided by the wisdom and power of their dream-born companions.
This tribe of Kalashtar was feared as the plane of dreams is a realm that has not been explored, they were given a settlement of Zaswar as a way to keep tabs on them, as named settlements have stricter laws to follow and are needed to attend settlement meetings.
While some of the Kalaahtar had joined with theAasimar and Tieflings to live in place of the Genasi in Bywynne in Lustrum, the majority of their tribes have remained in Zaswar.

Common Myths and Legends

The First Dreamweaver: The story of a Kalashtar ancestor who first encountered the quori and became a bridge between dreams and reality, teaching others to respect the dream world. The Sleepless Sentinel: A guardian figure who watches over the Kalashtar’s dreams, guiding and protecting them from malevolent forces. The Lost Dreamrealm: A mystical legend describing a hidden sanctuary within the Plane of Dreams, said to be where the quori spirits reside in harmony, awaiting the day they can return to their realm in peace.

Scientific Name

Home Somnilalis

Lifespan

80-120 years

Average Height

5'8" - 6'2"

Average Weight

130-180 pounds

Average Physique

The Kalashtar have slender, wiry builds, which emphasize dexterity and grace over brute strength. Their physical form reflects their disciplined mental and spiritual practices.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Skin tones vary from fair to medium-dark, often with a subtle, dreamlike glow. Their eyes range from muted shades to rich, unusual colors, sometimes with faint swirling patterns. Some Kalashtar mark their foreheads with symbolic runes or patterns to honor the bond with their quori spirit.

Geographic Distribution

• Zaswar