Dryads
A tauriform race of sapient plants with curious parallels to mammalian (especially huaman) anatomy and the genetic legacy of earth's trees. The main race of the Dryad Union.
Basic Information
Anatomy
A plant-based sapient species noted for its genetic links to species of Terran tree.
The basic body shape of the adult dryad is tauriform, with a cervine lower torso supported by 4 legs topped with a humanoid torso. The majority of the ‘skin’ consists of a flexible, slightly spongy wooden material, transitioning to a tough fleshy material on the ventral side, the stomach/chest and the face. The wood-like portion of the skin is resistant to impacts and some cutting tools, if lacking in sensitivity, and typically features a pattern of subtle whorls and knots unique to the individual.
Features similar to humanoid races are also common, with apparently little practical purpose for an arboreal being. Most notably, hair-like protrusions are common on the upper head and the terminus of the spine, leaf-like in nature and fully capable of photosynthesis on behalf of the dryad. These leaves may darken gradually with relative age. Internally, the dryad appears to be a fully functional floral simulation of complex mammalian life, including respiratory and digestive organs. The sensory organs, particularly the eyes, are effectively human in function.
The dryad’s feet end in a nail-like thorn which functions as a surprisingly dextrous cloven hoof, which are each surrounded by thin, cilial roots. These roots are in most cases mainly protective in nature and serve to keep the hoof and lower ankle safe from accidental blows. However in certain cases a dryad may enter a hibernation state, reducing most body functions in order to subsist on immediately available resources, characterised by a dramatic lengthening and activation of the roots and both growth and spreading-out of hairs. This (literally vegetative) state permits survival in even harsh conditions where food may not be otherwise available.
Dietary Needs and Habits
Foods or ingredients that create a pronounced response in mammals, such as spicy, very bitter or poisonous ingredients, tend to have an altered effect on Dryads...
Capsaicin, found in chilis and responsible for the spiciness of most human foods, gives a caffiene-like buzz that invokes a sense of alarm or urgency if taken in high doses.
Capsaicin, found in chilis and responsible for the spiciness of most human foods, gives a caffiene-like buzz that invokes a sense of alarm or urgency if taken in high doses.
Civilization and Culture
Major Organizations
Core worlds are wholly part of the Dryad Union, a standoffish and xenophobic organisation only now trying to become a member of the galactic community.
A recent contributor to the Void walkers Project.
Principal race of the Dryad Union
Scientific Name
Mixtumque plantis venatione cervorum
Geographic Distribution
Comments