Augalai

In the depths of the lush, enchanted rainforests of Helionde, a curious species thrives - the Augalai. These humanoid plants embody the harmonious blend of human and botanical characteristics, showcasing a spectrum of appearances and abilities that range from being predominantly plant-like to almost entirely human-like with floral accents.

Origins

The Augalai were created at the beginning of the third age by the goddess Daba. After what she saw as a failure, the creation of the Kerdil, she wanted to bring something into life that would appreciate her creations more. A species that would live in harmony with nature. And so she made the Augalai. The first of them were awakened deep in the forest of Helionde, under the great tree that later became the center of Canopyra, their capital city.

Geographic Distribution

For centuries, the Augalai remained primarily within their forested kingdom. The idea of traveling across deforested lands to establish new habitats was too alien to them. Although individual Augalai or small families occasionally left Helionde, it wasn't until the end of the Third Age that the number of those seeking a new home began to rise. Today, more and more Augalai can be found outside of Helionde, at least in the forested regions of both continents. The largest proportion has settled in the states of the Willenbergers, Hayato, Tilki, and Valoperi.

I have seen some of them in Dachswedel. They have their own little district.

You want to know about the Augalai? Oh they are such nice people. Always friendly, consistently helpful, and thoroughly respectful. We are lucky to live so close to their community!

— Elderly citizen of Dachswedel

Biology and Physiology

The Augalai are an extraordinary species whose physical and biological traits blur the lines between flora and fauna. Their bodies exhibit a dynamic mix of human-like structures and plant-based adaptations, making them uniquely suited to thrive in a variety of environments. It is not surprising that they therefore exhibit an increased affinity for earth magic.

Inner structure

Instead of a traditional bone structure, the Augalai have a flexible framework composed of fibrous tissues. This "plant skeleton" provides them with remarkable resilience and flexibility. It does not mean though that they can stretch their limbs to get longer armes or legs. It only means that most of them have more flexibility in their movement like a contortionist. Muscular systems are interwoven with vascular structures that transport water, sap, and nutrients throughout their bodies, much like a tree is build.

Appearance

The outer layer of an Augalai varies significantly among individuals. Some have bark-like skin, offering natural protection against physical harm and environmental elements but less flexibility. Others possess soft, leaf-like skin, which allows for a more efficient photosynthesis. Colors can therefore vary from several shades of green to bark-like brown tones and even almost fleshy tones. In all cases, their skin is capable of absorbing sunlight to fuel their metabolic processes. Many Augalai also feature vibrant foliage or flowering appendages, which serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. These appendages can attract pollinators, emit fragrances to communicate emotions, or even act as camouflage in dense vegetation.

Eye colors can vary within a broader spectrum. Common colors include vibrant shades of yellow, orange, brown, and various greens. Much rarer is the occasional pale purple. Blue eyes are by far the rarest.

The hair, or what we would consider hair, of the Augalai is undoubtedly the most colorful aspect of their appearance. While shades of green are dominant, autumnal orange-red or golden-yellow can occur just as easily as the pale purple of wisteria or the pink of a delicate cherry blossom. Generally, older Augalai tend to have more muted hair colors, while younger Augalai display fresher or softer tones.

Snapshot

Origin: Kingdom of Helionde

Language: Concordian, Communication through bioluminescence and pheromones

Life span: 90 years

Height: 120 - 250 cm

Weight: 30 - 150 kg

Skin:

Eyes:

Hair:

So far, all Augalai I have met looked rather human. Maybe I have to visit Helionde to see some others.

Sensory and Communication Systems

Augalai have highly developed sensory systems. Their often leaf-like ears are sensitive to subtle vibrations, enabling them to detect sounds over long distances. Bioluminescent markings on their bodies allow for visual communication in low-light environments, while their ability to release pheromones facilitates chemical signaling within their communities. This multi-modal communication system fosters strong social bonds and coordination among groups. Nonetheless all Augalai are capable of speaking and understanding Concordian, enabling them to live among other species.

It must be so cool to communicate with smell and glowing colors.

Morphological Spectrum

The degree of plant-like features in an Augalai is influenced by several factors:
Environment: Those living in dense, shaded forests tend to exhibit more foliage and bark-like features, optimizing their ability to photosynthesize in low-light conditions. Conversely, Augalai in urban settings may adapt a more human-like appearance to blend in with other sentient species.
Age: Younger Augalai are more plant-like, with vibrant flowers and soft, leaf-like skin. As they mature, their features become more subdued, reflecting the seasonal cycle of growth and decay.
Choice: Augalai possess limited control over their appearance, using their botanical features as expressions of identity or emotional state. For instance, blooming flowers might signify joy, while withered petals could indicate grief.

Reproductive Biology

The reproduction of Augalai is completely different from other humanoid species. As they have no primary sexual organs, Augalai reproduce more like plants. The female part produces a blossom that is pollinated by the male part. The now-pollinated blossom is taken off the female Augalai and placed into a so-called Verdant Cradles. These pods are nurtured in communal nurseries by the Bloomwardens, from sprouting into saplings until they gradually take on humanoid forms as they mature. This process can take anywhere from three to ten months. After the Augalai emerge from their cradles they are already treated as a young adult.

Intimacy and sex itself occur only on a spiritual level for the Augalai. It is possible for other humanoid species to join in what the Augalai refer to as the Fusion. During this Fusion, electrical impulses are sent and received directly through the skin. As we have ourselves never been part of this Fusion, we cannot elaborate on this feeling.

This might sound a bit strange, but I would love to experience this Fusion thing.

Biological Cycle

As previously mentioned, Augalai are born as fully grown individuals. At this point, they are treated as young adults. Over their lifespan of approximately 90 years, they change their appearance multiple times, much like an aging tree does. Augalai instinctively sense when their time has come. This marks the beginning of a journey to Canopyra, where they become one with the earth once again. If an Augalai experiences an untimely death, it becomes the responsibility of family or friends to bring the deceased back to the capital. There, their body nourishes the great tree at the center of the city, and the departed becomes part of the city itself.

Culture

Augalai society revolves around the concept of symbiosis, both with their environment and among themselves. Their communities are often found in "Living Cities," constructed entirely from massive, sentient trees that provide shelter, food, and resources in exchange for care and protection.

Beliefs

Most Augalai are following the Tenfold Path. It is not surprising that the focus here is on Daba. Recently, there have been increasing calls to abandon the Tenfold Path and dedicate worship solely to Daba. There are rumors of an organization whose followers call themselves Daba's Vanguard. Those rumors indicate that Daba's Vanguard aims to force the change in belief, if necessary, with more extreme, violent measures.

Augalai place great importance on the stars. Their zodiac signs are very significant to them, and many prospective parents attempt to bribe the Bloomwardens to either accelerate or slow down the growth of their offspring, depending on the traits they desire for their child.

Classical portrait of Daba

Zodiac signs that are supposed to define someone's character. What nonsense!

Naming conventions

Female names are usually based on flowers, such as Rose, Lily, or Tulip. They also receive an ending that gives them a feminine sound.

Male names, on the other hand, are typically based on parts of trees, such as Branch, Twig, or Trunk or directly on the names of trees. To these, a syllable with a more masculine sound is added.

The family names of the Augalai often reflect the region the family originates from. This can refer to the place of birth itself or a plant that is particularly common in that area.

Female name examples

Rosa
Rosaline
Liliana
Tulipa
Dahlia
Lavendara

Male name examples

Brancho
Twiggum
Barko
Rootum
Oakem
Birchus

Family name examples

Willowshade
Thornevale
Greenshadow
Amberroot
Brightlead
Thistlebranch

They have such wonderful names. I would call myself Lilliane Willowshade.

Dress code

When Augalai are among themselves, they typically wear little to no clothing. The more pronounced their plant-like traits, the less clothing they tend to wear. Outside of Helionde, they adapt to the customs of the local culture, preferring clothing made from plant-based materials such as hemp or cotton. There is no particular preference for patterns or colors.

Would I have to walk around naked in Canopyra?

Diet

A large portion of the energy the Augalai require is generated through photosynthesis. Using their skin or the plant-like parts of their bodies, they can convert sunlight into energy. Additionally, they are capable of absorbing nutrients from the soil in a process where they temporarily root themselves. However, they can also supplement their diet with conventional food. Their menu primarily consists of fruits, vegetables, and fungi.

Common costumes

Augalai culture is rich with rituals celebrating growth, renewal, and interconnectedness. The Blooming Festival, for example, marks the arrival of spring. During this time, Augalai of all morphologies gather to exchange seeds and celebrate the sprouting of new life. Other ceremonies, such as the Harvest Moon Rite, honor the cyclical nature of existence, with Augalai offering seeds and plants to their sentient tree homes in gratitude.

Interspecies relations

The Augalai maintain neutral to very good relations with almost every other species. The strongest bonds today are with the Tilki and the Valoperi, which is why larger populations of Augalai can often be found among them. The most challenging relationships, without question, are between the Augalai and the Seramkerdil. The two species' views on life are far too fundamentally different for closer connections to have ever developed. When one species refuses to leave the mountain and the other refuses to enter it, trade and other forms of exchange are truly difficult to achieve.

To be honest, these mountain dwarves are rather eccentric.

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TLDR for my players

For information about the apperance please note the section "Snapshot".

Agile: +2 to your Speed Pool

Skill: You are specialized in tasks related to trade.

Skill: You are trained in stealth tasks in areas of natural woodland.

Skill: You are trained in tasks related to animal handling.

Skill: You are specialized in the field of nature and can answer both simple and complex questions.

Heat Sensitivity: You are vulnerable to extreme heat and dry conditions. Tasks to endure such environments are hindered.

Additional Equipment: You have a small sun crystal that enhances photosynthesis in dark areas.

Initial Link to the Starting Adventure: From the following list of options, choose how you became involved in the first adventure.

1. You are traveling with your companions to learn more about their culture and help improve interspecies relations.
2. You are searching for a lost Augalai sapling rumored to have taken root far from Helionde.
3. A sentient tree from your homeland granted you a mission that brought you to this group.
4. You feel a deep-rooted connection to one of your companions, as if they were a kindred spirit in another life.