Thri'zkarn

The Thri'zkarn are a resilient insectoid hivemind race, bound by their connection to the Hive and the League of Free Cities. Once spread across Ayinel, they now stand on the brink of extinction after the Cascade, a catastrophic event that shattered their numbers. Krith'Aran, a bastion of organic architecture on the League's borders, is believed to be the last surviving Thri'zkarn colony, a sanctuary where they seek to protect their people and preserve their way of life.

Homeland: The City of Krith'Aran

Krith'Aran is both a sanctuary and a fortress, grown from natural elements and infused with Thri'zkarn organic technology. This sprawling city of intertwining tunnels, towering structures, and bioluminescent caverns lies partially underground. Krith'Aran’s unique blend of nature and architecture is a testament to the Thri'zkarn’s enduring spirit and adaptability in the face of extinction. Notable areas include:
The Central Hive: The seat of governance and spiritual guidance, where the last Queen oversees the remnants of her people.
Market Cavern: An underground trade hub where bioluminescent goods, crafted tools, and pheromone-infused medicines are exchanged with other races.
Warrior Barracks: Guarding the hive’s perimeter, these barracks house the defenders who stand vigilant, knowing they are the last line of defense for their species.

A History Shaped by Tragedy: The Cascade

The Cascade struck without warning, unleashing a series of natural disasters and magical anomalies that decimated many Thri'zkarn hives across Ayinel. Only Krith'Aran, protected by a combination of natural defenses and skilled warriors, withstood the devastation. Now, it is whispered that Krith'Aran may be the last colony, a thought that weighs heavily on the hive as they carry the legacy of all Thri'zkarn. The loss of their kin has instilled in the Thri'zkarn a fierce dedication to survival, leading to closer ties with the League of Free Cities. Though their memories are interwoven with the echoes of the past, the Thri'zkarn press forward, bound by a shared responsibility to preserve their culture and protect the League.

Society and Structure

Hierarchical Roles

The Thri'zkarn structure their society around specific roles that each individual instinctively fulfills, contributing to the collective’s survival and purpose. Each role is considered sacred, a duty to the hive and a connection to those who were lost.
Queen: The last Queen of Krith'Aran is the spiritual heart and strategic mind of the hive, maintaining links between hive members and guiding their efforts to preserve what remains.
Warriors: Fierce defenders who follow the Oath of the Iron Mantle, knowing that they protect the last hive from threats both external and internal.
Workers: Industrious builders and craftsmen who sustain the hive, managing resources and crafting tools to ensure survival.
Scouts: The hive’s explorers, risking everything to monitor the lands beyond and secure vital resources or warn of danger.

"In our hunger, we remember. In our survival, we honor."

— Hive Queen of Krith'Aran

Lifespan Up to 50 years, reaching adulthood within a year.
Average Height 5-6 feet.
Average Weight 120-160 lbs.

"Together, we carry their memory."

— Thri'zkarn Saying

Diet

Obligate Carnivores. The Thri'zkarn diet consists primarily of small prey and insects, which are hunted or raised within the hive. Specialized workers tend to insect farms, and hunting parties venture outside the city for fresh meat. Meals are communal and ritualistic, emphasizing shared strength and sustenance

Celebrations of Resilience

The Thri'zkarn observe the Festival of the Last Hunt every year, celebrating their survival of the Cascade. During the festival, warriors reenact the legendary hunt that provided for Krith'Aran during the disaster, with games and feasts held in their honor.