Fetchling
Lost in Thought
I began to question whether I was real or not, if I even existed. Floating there with no knowledge of time and space made me lose my grip on what reality was like. I was nobody, nowhere, nothing. Didn't even know what I was called after a while..From the depths of the Void, some individuals are changed forevermore. Known as Fetchlings, their perspectives muddled by the realm between worlds. The only thing they might remember of their former life is a faint hint, but no recollection of any memories.
Basic Information
Anatomy
Physically, Fetchlings appear humanoid, having traits from other races that are hard to trace back. Their distinct nature though is their greyish skin and bright yellow eyes. Most colour on them is washed out, dull in many places if not pure black or white.
Biological Traits
Shape of Nobody
The appearance of a Fetchling is quite malleable, using it to appear more human. By changing the way how light moves off their body, they can appear like an entirely different person. The only way to tell is by how their shadows defy the surrounding lighting.
Non-Existence
Fetchlings both exist and don't at the same time. In a sense, they rely on the perception of others to exist. As such, they can partly cease being inside of shadows, making things pass right through them.
With enough experience, they can use this to move between the Void and back. At first they can use it to fast travel between shadows, but later on teleport right into the plane itself.
Genetics and Reproduction
Fetchlings can't reproduce at all due to their warped genetics. Most attempts at reproduction lead to either no success or at worst, a stillborn. To this day, no healthy offspring from a Fetchling exists.
Instead, most Fetchlings come from individuals getting lost in the Void, only to be spat out later. The exact time it takes before this occurs is uncertain, as time doesn't flow in said dimension.
Growth Rate & Stages
What is existence without the chance of having it end? What is life without death? Nothing but a state of being without a sense of purpose.
In the Void, Fetchlings don't show any signs of ageing no matter the length spent there. However, when they enter any material plane, their void essence breaks down. The effect is miniscule, but still noticeable for the observant eye.
Upon their death, Fetchlings reduce to dust. The progress usually takes two to three days, where the body breaks down into almost nothing. The remnant of their soul returns to the Ethereal Veil, adding them back to the cycle of life.
Additional Information
Geographic Origin and Distribution
Fetchlings exist all over the place, both on Fabulae and the far reaches of the multiverse. Many appear at random intervals, making it hard to know where or when they will show up.
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Fetchlings can't distinguish colours that well, seeing the world in a muted tone. They do make up for that with an excellent darkvision, caused by their stay in the Void.
Yet, their perception on reality is messy: awareness regarding time and space are diluted for them. Both distance and time are hard to track for them.
Civilization and Culture
Naming Traditions
Common Dress Code
For many Fetchlings, fashion nor style aren't their strong points. Most prefer to keep it simple and minimalistic. Some are already satisfied with a simple cloak and basic attire.
Common Myths and Legends
- Fetchlings don't speak: They can speak, they just have a tendency to not speak that much.
- Fetchlings don't need to eat: On any material plane, they do require nourishment to survive.
- A Fetchling's gaze can curse you: While unsettling, it has no magical properties.
The Void Memory Theory
A popular theory regarding their origin is the fact they might be sapient Void Memories. Whenever a person leaves the Void, a memory of them remains, which becomes a new Fetchling.
Whether it's true or not is still up to scholarly debate.
Interspecies Relations and Assumptions
Not gonna lie, I expected him to act all depressive when I gave him that dish. But when he took a bite, the guy just cheered up like he tasted a piece of heaven.
Fetchlings rarely come into conflict with other races. Their stand on the rest of the world is pretty neutral, seeing it often as alien. However, it does not mean they don't see major interest in it.
Despite their muted nature, they enjoy the presence of others. They like to discuss things, even if they might be more listeners than speakers themselves. As such, they make excellent scholars.
Many do gravitate towards fellow outsiders such as Tieflings and Aasimar. And amongst parties, they make excellent guides for exploring the multiverse.
Fetchling Players
Fetchlings find comfort in taking in the world around them after so long in the Void. For many, they adventure to see what life has to offer, even if they do it quietly. While for others, it's an attempt to escape the isolation they once suffered. Either way, they want to see what the world is like after so long.
1.57 m - 1.93 m
36 kg - 57 kg
I find the idea of Fetchlings fascinating. I really love the art you've done for this article - really adds to the feel of them being otherworldly. Also, I really want to see an obese Fetchling now.