Drywid

Drywid are one of the five mortal peoples and bear the burden of Nature. They are known for restoration, conjuring and communication with living systems. The older translation druid survives in outsider texts but does not describe one profession or religion.

Biology

Drywid generally live between 130 and 150 years and average about 175 centimetres. Their skin ranges from light to dark, with darker complexions more common; hair is usually white, red or black. Two paired nodes at the temples function as specialised organs through which Drywid perceive and communicate with animals, fungi and plants.

Visible ageing begins comparatively early, and nearly half of life may be spent in an elderly body.

Magic and material culture

Drywid are masters of restoration and conjuring. Growing a personal wand is a major cultural practice. The wand is cultivated rather than simply carved and becomes a record of training, relationship and magical development.

Under severe burden failure, Drywid may become feral, plantlike or merged into larger living systems.

Dark Forest and Exodus

Drywid monasteries in the Dark Forest shelter refugees after the fall of Metrilburg. They provide food and healing without claiming they can hold the forest permanently. Elven pursuit turns local defence into the Dark Forest Wars.

Resistance occupies much of the Aelven war effort for approximately two centuries. Surviving communities hide, become sanctuary-bound guardians or are enslaved to supply food, wood, metals and living infrastructure.

Later survival

The Dawn Dominion preserves a substantial Drywid population. After the Great Cataclysm, Drywid traditions also spread through isolated villages because restoration and agricultural magic can survive without modern industrial systems.