Remnari
As I float through the shimmering corridors of the Astral Plane, my third eye glows softly, casting ethereal light in all directions. I'm far from the Ground, that realm of solidity and time, yet I feel its pull—like a distant melody, haunting and sweet. I think back to my last sojourn there, where I met humans and elves, their eyes filled with a mixture of awe and suspicion as they glanced at my third eye.
"I am a scholar," I remind myself, "a bridge between the cosmic and the mundane, the astral and the earthly." My third eye flickers as I activate its power to detect the alignment of energies around me. Good, evil, neutral—they are but different shades on the vast canvas of existence.
"We are but stardust, woven into form, bound by planes yet unshackled by eternity," I murmur, recalling an old Remnari saying. It encapsulates our essence, a people caught between the infinite and the finite, forever balancing the scales of cosmic curiosity and earthly necessity.
As I prepare to transition back to the Ground for a gathering of scholars, a sense of anticipation fills me. Each visit is an opportunity for discovery, for connection, for adding another brushstroke to the ever-expanding mural of Remnari existence. Yet, I also know that with each descent comes risks—the risk of misunderstanding, of conflict, of losing oneself in the labyrinth of time and matter.
"But such is the Remnari way," I think to myself, "to venture, to explore, to seek understanding even at the edge of the unknown." With a pulse of astral energy, I fold space around me, my form dissolving into a cascade of radiant light, bound for another chapter in our ceaseless quest for knowledge and connection.
Basic Information
Anatomy
The Remnari are bipedal humanoids with a highly adaptable anatomy designed for both terrestrial and aerial mobility. Their skeletal and muscular structures are optimized for a life that spans multiple planes of existence, reflecting their unique evolutionary history.
Skeletal Structure
The Remnari possess a lightweight yet durable skeletal structure, primarily composed of a calcium-phosphorus compound with traces of astral minerals. This unique composition grants them both resilience and flexibility, essential traits for adapting to different planes. They have elongated limb bones, particularly in the arms, which facilitate their ability to fly when in the Astral and Prime Material Planes.Muscular System
The Remnari's muscular system is highly developed, particularly the pectoral and dorsal muscles, which are essential for flight. Their muscle fibers are dense and elastic, allowing for bursts of speed and agility both in the air and on the ground.Limbs and Appendages
The Remnari have two arms and two legs, each ending in five-digit appendages. Their hands are highly dexterous, capable of intricate manipulation, while their feet are adapted for both walking and grasping, providing additional stability during flight.Sexual Dimorphism
While the Remnari exhibit minimal sexual dimorphism, there are subtle differences between the genders. Males tend to have slightly broader shoulders and a more robust skeletal structure, while females often possess a more streamlined body shape optimized for agile flight. These differences are minor and do not significantly impact the roles that individuals of either gender may assume in Remnari society.Biological Traits
The Remnari are a biologically unique species, characterized by their mutable physiology that adapts to different planes of existence. Their biological traits are a testament to their evolutionary history, shaped by the cataclysmic loss of their home world and their subsequent adaptation to life in the Astral Plane and Rolaraspace.
Life Span and Life Expectancy
The Remnari's transition to becoming "native" inhabitants of the Astral Plane has had profound implications for their life span and reproductive cycles. While the Astral Plane is a realm where time has no effect, the Remnari's biological processes, including aging and reproduction, are tied to the temporal flow of the Prime Material Plane, or "the Ground."Ground Dependency for Reproduction
The Remnari must return to the Ground for essential life processes such as reproduction. While in the Astral Plane, their biological clocks are essentially "paused," rendering them unable to conceive or carry offspring to term. This necessitates periodic returns to the Ground, where time flows normally, allowing them to engage in reproductive activities. This Ground dependency has significant cultural and social implications, often making these journeys rites of passage or even communal events.Extended Life Span in the Astral Plane
While the Remnari's physical forms age naturally to an average of about 200 years when residing on the Ground, their primary habitation in the Astral Plane allows them to extend their life spans considerably. In the Astral Plane, where time has no effect, they do not age, effectively making them ageless for the duration of their stay in this realm. This has led to Remnari individuals who have lived for several centuries, their life spans elongated by their sojourns in the Astral Plane.Biological and Cultural Implications
The dual nature of the Remnari's life span—finite on the Ground but potentially infinite in the Astral Plane—has led to a complex interplay of biological, cultural, and philosophical considerations. It raises questions about identity and the nature of existence, as Remnari individuals must reconcile the limitations of their physical forms with the boundless possibilities offered by the Astral Plane. This duality is often reflected in their literature, philosophy, and spiritual practices, which explore themes of mortality and immortality, limitation and transcendence.
Height and Weight Averages
Remnari adults typically stand between 5.5 to 6.5 feet tall, with a weight range of 130 to 220 pounds. Their build is generally lean and muscular, optimized for both terrestrial and aerial mobility.Gender and Role Variations
The Remnari exhibit minimal sexual dimorphism, with both genders sharing similar height and weight ranges. Gender roles within Remnari society are fluid, reflecting their culture's focus on adaptability and survival. Both genders are equally likely to engage in various societal roles, whether it be in leadership, scholarship, or combat.Unique Biological Traits
- Adaptive Physiology: The most striking feature of the Remnari is their ability to adapt their physiology based on the plane they inhabit. This includes resistance to non-magical damage and a magical Fly speed in both the Astral and Prime Material Planes, as well as a unique radiant energy attack in other planes.
- Astral Resonance: Remnari possess an innate sensitivity to astral phenomena, allowing them to navigate the Astral Plane and Rolaraspace with remarkable ease. This trait is believed to be a survival adaptation following the destruction of their home world.
- Metabolic Flexibility: The Remnari have a highly efficient metabolism that allows them to subsist on a variety of diets, including some astral flora and fauna. This metabolic flexibility is another adaptation to their life in multiple planes.
Genetics and Reproduction
The Remnari's unique life cycle, shaped by their existence across multiple planes, has led to a complex and fascinating system of reproduction. While their primary habitation in the Astral Plane extends their lifespan, it also necessitates periodic returns to the Ground for reproductive purposes.
Reproductive Cycle
The Remnari have a sexual reproductive system similar to many humanoid species, but with a few key differences. Their reproductive cycle is closely tied to their temporal existence on the Ground, where time flows normally. During these periods, Remnari engage in mating rituals that culminate in conception and gestation. The gestation period lasts approximately nine months, after which the offspring are born live.Ground Dependency
As previously mentioned, the Remnari must return to the Ground for essential life processes such as reproduction. While in the Astral Plane, their biological clocks are essentially "paused," rendering them unable to conceive or carry offspring to term. This Ground dependency has significant cultural and social implications, often making these journeys rites of passage or even communal events.Genetic Diversity
The Remnari possess a high degree of genetic diversity, which is believed to be an evolutionary response to their multi-planar existence. Their genome contains multiple adaptive genes that allow for their unique physiological traits, such as their third eye and heightened sensory capabilities.Genetic Inheritance
The inheritance of specific traits, such as the color of the third eye or resistance to certain types of damage, follows Mendelian principles but with some unique variations. For example, the ability to utilize the third eye's "Detect Good and Evil" function appears to be a dominant trait, often manifesting even when only one parent possesses the ability.Cultural and Social Implications
The complexity of Remnari reproduction and genetics has led to a rich tapestry of cultural beliefs and practices. Reproductive journeys to the Ground are often communal events, imbued with rituals and ceremonies that celebrate life, continuity, and the cosmic cycle.Additional Information
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
The Remnari's sensory capabilities are highly developed, reflecting their need for heightened awareness in the diverse and often perilous environments they inhabit. These capabilities range from the conventional to the extrasensory, providing them with a rich tapestry of perceptual experiences.
Visual Perception
Remnari possess keen eyesight, optimized for both diurnal and nocturnal conditions. Their eyes contain a higher concentration of rod and cone cells, allowing them to perceive a broader spectrum of light and color. This is particularly useful for navigating the varied lighting conditions of different planes.Auditory Perception
Their auditory senses are also finely tuned, capable of detecting a wide range of frequencies. This heightened sense of hearing aids them in spatial awareness, particularly when flying or navigating through the Astral Plane.Tactile Perception
The Remnari's skin is highly sensitive, capable of detecting changes in temperature, pressure, and even the flow of astral energies. This tactile sensitivity is an essential navigational aid, particularly in environments where visual or auditory cues may be limited.Olfactory and Gustatory Perception
While not as developed as their other senses, the Remnari's sense of smell and taste are adapted to discern a variety of chemical compositions, aiding them in identifying edible flora and fauna across different planes.Extrasensory Capabilities
Third Eye (Astral Sensory Organ): The most distinctive feature of the Remnari's sensory capabilities is their third eye. Located on the forehead, this specialized organ allows them to cast "Detect Good and Evil" a limited number of times per day. This third eye serves both a practical and symbolic role, aiding in navigation and serving as a potent cultural and spiritual symbol.Note for DMs: Consider allowing your players to choose whether or not their third eye manifests physically or magically and adjusting your adventures accordingly.
Civilization and Culture
Naming Traditions
The naming traditions of the Remnari are deeply rooted in their history and the collective trauma of their lost world. Names are not merely identifiers but are considered sacred echoes of their past, present, and future. They serve as both a tribute to what was lost and a beacon of hope for what lies ahead.
Structure
A typical Remnari name consists of three parts: the Given Name, the Lineage Name, and the Astral Epithet.- Given Name: This is the name chosen by the parents or guardians, often inspired by qualities they hope the child will embody. Examples include "Lyr," meaning "light," or "Toren," meaning "strength." Examples: Lyr, Toren, Vaelis, Serin, Quila, Elora, Thalos, Yren, Maelis, Zephyra
- Lineage Name: This name connects the individual to their family or clan and is passed down through generations. It often reflects the family's history or occupation. For instance, "Stellara" could signify a family known for their astral navigation skills. Examples: Stellara, Voidweaver, Luminara, Astralis, Nebulae, Solhart, Quasarclan, Celestis, Orionis, Galaxara
- Astral Epithet: Unique to the Remnari, this is a name chosen upon reaching adulthood, reflecting the individual's personal journey or aspirations within the Astral Plane or Rolaraspace. Examples include "Skyseeker" or "Starborn." Examples: Skyseeker, Starborn, Voidwalker, Cometstrider, Nebulawhisperer, Quasardancer, Solwanderer, Moonshadow, Cosmicdrifter, Aetherbreath
Rituals
The bestowal of a name is a significant event, marked by a ceremony known as the "Rite of Echoing." Conducted under the astral skies, this ritual involves the community coming together to acknowledge and celebrate the individual's place within the cosmic tapestry. The Astral Epithet is often revealed during a separate rite when the individual reaches the age of maturity.Cultural Significance
Names carry immense weight within Remnari society. They are invoked in both formal and spiritual contexts and are believed to hold a form of latent power. To speak one's full name is to acknowledge their entire being—past, present, and future.Major Organizations
Common Dress Code
the Remnari are a species of adaptability and nuance. Their attire, like their existence, is a harmonious blend of function and philosophy, designed for the fluidity of their multi-planar lives.
Utilitarian Elegance
When venturing into Wildspace or the terrestrial realms known as the Ground, Remnari from the few enclaves, such as the one near Rolara, don a uniform of utilitarian elegance. Crafted from advanced materials that regulate body temperature, their form-fitting garments are monochromatic, reflecting their preference for simplicity and functionality. Whether navigating the astral conduits or walking among other species, these garments are designed to minimize hindrance, allowing the Remnari to move with the grace and agility that their complex lives demand.The Monochromatic Palette
The Remnari's clothing is not a canvas for individual expression but a practical necessity. While they may have one or two favored colors, their attire is always monochromatic, a single hue that resonates with their personal preference but does not overshadow their intrinsic individuality. In a society where personality is the true measure of one's uniqueness, the monochromatic palette serves as a subtle nod to their collective ethos.Layers and Climate Adaptability
For colder climes, the Remnari add a single, thin outer layer to their base attire. This outerwear, like their form-fitting base layer, is unadorned and of the same shade, maintaining the aesthetic of utilitarian simplicity. The material's advanced thermal properties eliminate the need for additional layers, making their clothing as efficient as it is elegant.Cultural Naturism
Within the sanctity of their enclaves, the Remnari often forgo clothing altogether. This is not a spiritual practice but a cultural preference rooted in their love for unrestricted movement. Notices are sent out when visitors are expected, and the Remnari will clothe themselves, not out of modesty but out of courtesy for those unaccustomed to their ways.Culture and Cultural Heritage
The Remnari are a complex and multifaceted people, shaped by the unique circumstances of their history and the existential challenges they face as a species. Their culture is a rich tapestry woven from threads of loss, resilience, and hope. This overview aims to provide an authoritative examination of the key elements that define Remnari culture and heritage.
Philosophical Foundations
At the core of Remnari culture lies a deeply ingrained philosophical outlook that centers on the concepts of impermanence and adaptability. The cataclysmic loss of their home world has imbued them with a collective sense of existential urgency, leading to a culture that values the present moment and prepares for an uncertain future. Philosophical schools within the Remnari community often explore themes of cosmic insignificance, resilience, and the quest for meaning in a transient universe.Social Structure
Remnari society is organized around the principles of communal responsibility and meritocracy. Given their history of loss and displacement, there is a strong emphasis on collective well-being over individual gain. Leadership roles are often filled by those who have demonstrated exceptional skills or contributions to the community, as recognized by a council of elders.Rituals and Traditions
Rituals play a significant role in Remnari culture, serving as both a link to their past and a means to navigate their present. The "Rite of Echoing," for instance, is a naming ceremony that imbues each individual with a sense of purpose and connection to the community. Other rituals involve the veneration of astral phenomena, a nod to their deep relationship with the cosmic forces that surround them.Art and Expression
Remnari art is a vibrant blend of technological and magical mediums, reflecting their dual heritage. Holographic tapestries, enchanted sculptures, and astral music are common forms of artistic expression. These works often explore themes of loss, hope, and the sublime beauty of the cosmos.Language and Communication
The Remnari have developed a complex language that incorporates both verbal and non-verbal elements, including a form of telepathic resonance for intimate communication. Their language is rich in metaphors and idioms that draw from cosmic and astral phenomena, underscoring their deep connection to the universe.History
In the annals of cosmic history, the tale of the Remnari is one that defies easy categorization. It is a story that begins in tragedy, yet it is also a story that speaks to the indomitable will of a people to survive against all odds.
In the wake of this cataclysm, the Remnari found themselves adrift in the Astral Plane, their world gone but their will to survive unbroken. It was during this period of aimless drifting that they discovered the conduits and color pools of Rolaraspace. Sensing the unique energies emanating from this astral zone, they navigated their way through these pathways in a mass exodus, driven by a collective sense of urgency and existential dread.
The Lost World
The Remnari hail from a world whose name has been lost to time, a Celestial body that once orbited a distant star in a galaxy far removed from Rolaraspace. This world was a paradise of biodiversity, a haven of scientific discovery and arcane mastery. Yet, it was also a world teetering on the brink of its own destruction. Whether through arcane hubris, divine wrath, or cosmic calamity, their home was shattered, reduced to astral fragments that now drift aimlessly through the Void.The Exodus
Settlement in Rolaraspace
Upon their arrival in Rolaraspace, the Remnari faced numerous challenges. The realm was already inhabited by various races and governed by its own set of cosmic laws. Yet, the Remnari were not deterred. They negotiated with the existing inhabitants, established colonies on uninhabited celestial bodies, and began the arduous process of adapting to their new home. Their numbers in Rolaraspace grew, not merely as refugees but as a burgeoning civilization seeking to carve out a new destiny.The Present
Today, the Remnari are a people in transition, caught between the haunting memories of a lost world and the burgeoning possibilities of a new one. They have become an integral part of the cosmic tapestry of Rolaraspace, contributing to its culture, politics, and arcane discoveries. Yet, they are also a people who look to the stars with a sense of melancholy, forever reminded of what was lost and forever driven to ensure that such a tragedy never befalls them again.Interspecies Relations and Assumptions
The Remnari's unique existence, shaped by their multi-planar habitation and complex physiology, has led to a varied range of interactions with other humanoid species. These relationships are characterized by a blend of curiosity, caution, and mutual respect, albeit tinged with elements of skepticism and awe.
Humanoid Perspectives on the Remnari
- Humans: Generally, Humans exhibit a blend of curiosity and caution towards the Remnari. The latter's arcane abilities and mysterious nature are subjects of both fascination and wariness.
I met a Remnari once, eyes like the night sky, they had. Kinda eerie, but they knew things, deep things.
- Elves: Elves are intrigued by the Remnari's longevity and astral connections but maintain a degree of aloofness.
Their existence is a paradox, a blend of the ephemeral and the eternal. Fascinating, but can they truly understand the weight of millennia?
- Halflings: Generally friendly but slightly intimidated, Halflings view the Remnari as fascinating but somewhat overwhelming figures.
They're like walking, talking star maps! A bit too tall for my liking, but they tell the most amazing stories.
- Dragonborn: Dragonborn are respectful of the Remnari's abilities but harbor concerns about their mysterious and arcane nature.
They wield energies that are ancient, perhaps even draconic in origin. But what do they seek? Power? Wisdom?
Remnari Perspectives on Other Humanoids
The Remnari view other humanoid species through the lens of their own complex history and multi-planar existence.- Humans: Seen as versatile but fleeting, humans are appreciated for their adaptability.
Humans are like shooting stars—brilliant, full of potential, but gone in a blink.
- Elves: Elves are respected for their wisdom but are considered somewhat rigid in their traditions.
Elves understand the long view, the cosmic cycles. But sometimes they're so rooted in tradition, they forget to look up.
- Halflings: Halflings are admired for their community spirit but are considered somewhat naive in their worldview.
Halflings have a way of making anywhere feel like home. But their small world is just a speck in the grand tapestry of the cosmos.
- Dragonborn: Dragonborn are viewed as kindred spirits due to their affinity for ancient powers.
Dragonborn carry the weight of ancient legacies, much like us. But they must be cautious; even stars can be consumed by their own fire.
Scientific Name
Humanoid
Lifespan
200 (biological age, true age may be many more centuries)
Average Height
5.5 to 6.5 ft.
Average Weight
130 to 220 lbs.
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