Changelings

Changelings are insect-like beings who have the ability to alter their form to blend into society. They hail from the Undercity, but to most races, not much is known about them or their culture.

Basic Information

Anatomy

In their natural form, changelings are bipedal humanoids, physically distinguishable from humans by their faces, which feature arthropod-like mandibles, no visible nose, and non-reflective eyes, and their exoskeleton skin.
Some changelings can have short tails and antennae, and are often born sexless.

Genetics and Reproduction

All changelings are born from eggs, which are laid by the changeling queen. The Queen, who is the only female, can lay up to 250 eggs per mating season. She reproduces through parthenogenesis.

Growth Rate & Stages

Once a changeling hatches from their egg, they take on the form of a grub. Until they are a few months old, they surround themselves in their natural silk string, forming a cocoon for about 6 weeks.
Once they have formed their exoskeleton, they emerge from their cocoons and gain their natural changeling form, resembling a child until they grow and reach the age of 18. From the age of 18, a changeling can live anywhere from 50 years to 150 years, though most tend to live around 100 years old.
As changelings get older, around 55-75 years old, they start to shed their exoskeleton until it becomes thin. They become less capable of maintaining a form for too long before becoming weary and failing to keep the illusion up.

Ecology and Habitats

Changelings have their own part in the Undercity. Their home is the Hive. The cavern that makes up the main part of the Hive is very large and branches off into different sections.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Changelings don't need to eat, but they can eat anything they come across.