The Ruyi

In the mythical land of the Dragon Isles, there were once a race of sentient primates known as the Ruyi. While it is unknown how the ruyi came to be, it is said that these powerful and majestic creatures roamed the land long before the dragons, and were considered to be among the most ancient and noble of all the species on the isles. The Ruyi were said to be incredibly intelligent and wise, with a deep understanding of the natural world and the magic that flowed through it. They were known for their strength and agility, and were feared and respected by all who came into contact with them.
It has been taught that the ruyi would come to the developing humanoid populations and help and guide them, often coming to their defense in times of need. The Ruyi were not a violent or aggressive race and lived in harmony with the land, and were known for their wisdom and compassion. They often helped other creatures in need, and were known to be generous and kind.
Some of the oldest known texts speak of the ruyi as divine manifestations of powerful spirits, or unique peoples from the realm of the fey. Over the ages, sightings and writings about the ruyi have dwindled, and they have drifted into obscurity and folklore. Oral traditions share that often people will pray to, or call upon individual ruyi characters for guidance and power. While the names and nature of these ruyi have shifted over generations, a few characters of the myth have endured in the milieu of the current day, despite no one knowing if the ruyi still or ever really exist.
Below are some of the known ruyi characters: 
Koda: A powerful and wise Ruyi who is known for his strength and agility. He is a fierce warrior, and is often called upon to defend his people from threats both external and internal. Despite his fearsome reputation, Koda is also known for his compassion and generosity, and is loved by all who know him.
Yori: A gentle and peaceful Ruyi who is known for her wisdom and understanding of the natural world. She is a skilled healer, and is often called upon to tend to the sick and injured. Yori is also a master of spirit magic, and is said to be able to summon all manner of creatures. She tends to each creature she summons, big and small, as if they were her own.
Zou-Foo: A mischievous and cunning Ruyi who is known for his trickery and cunning. He is a skilled warrior and master of the staff, and is often called upon to help his people in times of need. With the power of duplication, transformation, and agility he tricks his enemies. Despite his mischievous nature, Zou-foo is also a loyal and brave friend, and is always ready to stand by his comrades in battle.