Homebrew Arborians (Arbor Elves) Species Details

Lore

Arborians, also known as Arbor Elves, are a unique race of elf-like beings who hail from The Everbloom, a secluded and enchanting realm where nature, strength, and mysticism intertwine in perfect harmony. Within this realm, towering ancient oaks, graceful willows, and mighty redwoods form a verdant canopy, providing a home to the Arborians and their profound bond with the mystical trees.

Upon reaching adulthood, Arborians seek out a tree within The Everbloom to commune with, merging their spirits with the dominant tree spirit. This transformative bonding process grants them bark-like skin and other physical traits that reflect their connection with nature. Arborians possess a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all living things, wielding a unique affinity for plants and the ability to communicate with and manipulate flora, including the power to command the forces of nature.

The Arborians' culture is steeped in respect for the delicate balance of the natural world. They serve as guardians of The Everbloom, defending their realm against threats that may disrupt the harmonious equilibrium. In their sacred grove, Arborians commune with the trees, celebrate their bond, and draw wisdom from the spirits of the land.

Arborians lead relatively short lives compared to other mortal races, yet their spirits endure within the trees. Once their physical bodies have lived for about 200 years, they return to the grove, where their bodies transform into new trees, perpetuating the eternal cycle of life and rebirth.

As Arborians venture beyond The Everbloom, their attunement with nature and mastery of plant manipulation make them formidable in natural environments. They bring the strength, mysticism, and ever-blooming beauty of their homeland to the world, carrying the spirits of the ancient trees wherever their journey takes them.

Appearance

The Arborians, with their unique bond to the mystical trees of The Everbloom, possess physical bodies that showcase a remarkable fusion of elven grace and the sturdy, wooden characteristics of their arboreal counterparts. Most notably, their skin takes on the texture and color of bark, varying in shades of earthy browns, mossy greens, or even vibrant autumn hues, mirroring the diverse array of trees within their homeland.

Their bodies, predominantly resembling the solid structure of a tree trunk, possess a natural resilience and strength. This hardy exterior, adorned with intricate patterns and ridges reminiscent of growth rings, serves as a testament to the Arborians' deep connection with the trees. Small, vibrant flowers, delicate vines, and tendrils often adorn their bodies, weaving through the bark-like skin and adding splashes of color and life to their form.

While their physical bodies predominantly take on the characteristics of a tree, the Arborians' faces remain more akin to their elven heritage. This intentional design choice allows them to maintain a familiar appearance, facilitating communication and fostering connections with other races. Their faces retain the elegant features and expressiveness of elves, with pointed ears, almond-shaped eyes, and finely chiseled features. Within their eyes, a glimmer of the vibrant and untamed spirit of nature can often be glimpsed.

The hair of Arborians reflects the rich hues of their arboreal environment. It cascades in flowing locks of various shades, mirroring the colors of leaves, blossoms, or even the silvered glow of moonlight filtering through the canopy. It is not uncommon to see twigs, leaves, or small blossoms intricately woven into their hair, further accentuating their connection to the natural world.

In their overall appearance, the Arborians embody a captivating juxtaposition between strength and grace, blending the resilient and steadfast qualities of trees with the refined elegance of the elven lineage. This unique amalgamation allows them to stand as living embodiments of the intricate bond they share with the sacred trees of The Everbloom.

Naming

The Arborians possess a unique naming convention that reflects their deep connection to the natural world and the qualities they hold dear. Rather than adopting traditional first and last names, Arborians embrace single-word names that evoke concepts related to their intrinsic values, encompassing beauty, elegance, strength, and the enchanting essence of their arboreal lineage.

These single-word names often draw inspiration from the flora, fauna, and natural phenomena of The Everbloom. They resonate with the harmonious balance between strength and grace that the Arborians embody. The selection of names is an individual and personal process, with each Arborian choosing a name that resonates with their own character and life experiences.

Examples of Arborian Names:

1. Celestia: Invoking the celestial beauty and ethereal elegance that is often associated with the Arborians.
2. Verdant: Reflecting the lush greenery and vibrant life that thrives within The Everbloom.
3. Solstice: Evoking the power and significance of the changing seasons, embodying the cyclical nature of life.
4. Lumina: Symbolizing the radiant glow and inner light that Arborians possess, illuminating the world around them.
5. Valerian: Conveying strength and valor, symbolizing the guardianship and protective nature of the Arborians.
6. Seraphine: Suggesting a divine grace and angelic presence, capturing the ethereal essence of the Arborians.
7. Amaryllis: Drawing inspiration from the delicate beauty and resilience of the Amaryllis flower.
8. Sylvan: Resonating with the woodland charm and magical aura that encompasses the Arborians' homeland.
9. Everthorn: Signifying the eternal strength and resilience of the Arborians, like the enduring thorns of a mighty tree.
10. Zephyr: Reflecting the gentle breeze that whispers through the trees, embodying the Arborians' grace and agility.

These examples demonstrate the range of concepts and qualities that Arborian names can invoke. Each name carries with it a unique resonance and significance, capturing the essence of the Arborians' inherent connection to nature and the extraordinary world they inhabit.

Roleplaying Your Arborian

As an Arborian, you possess a profound connection with the natural world and carry the spirits of ancient trees within you. Here are some guidelines to help you roleplay your Arborian character while staying true to their thematics and cultural heritage:

1. Embrace Nature's Balance: Arborians are attuned to the delicate balance of the natural world. Show reverence for the interconnectedness of all living things and the cyclical nature of life. Seek to maintain harmony and respect the ecosystems you encounter.

2. Embody Strength and Grace: Let your character's actions reflect the unique blend of strength and elegance that Arborians embody. Move with a fluid grace, reflecting the swaying branches and gentle breeze of the trees. Channel inner strength and resilience when faced with challenges.

3. Communicate with the Flora: Arborians have the ability to communicate with plants and understand their basic intentions. Utilize this gift to forge connections with the natural world. Listen to the whispers of the trees and the secrets shared by the flowers, allowing them to guide your decisions.

4. Stewardship of The Everbloom: Arborians are guardians of The Everbloom, their sacred homeland. Show a deep sense of responsibility and protectiveness toward the realm. Be vigilant against those who would disrupt the natural balance and work to preserve the enchanting beauty of your home.

5. Respect Other Races: While Arborians possess a unique bond with nature, they understand the value of diverse perspectives. Approach interactions with other races with openness, curiosity, and a willingness to learn. Share the wisdom and wonders of your natural affinity, fostering understanding and harmony.

6. Harness Nature's Magic: As an Arborian, you possess innate magical abilities tied to nature. Channel these abilities to enhance your connection with the natural world. Let your spells and cantrips reflect the power and beauty of flora and the elements, showcasing the unique magic that flows through your veins.

These guidelines are meant to inspire and help shape your roleplaying experience as an Arborian. Feel free to add personal touches and explore the depth of your character's backstory and motivations. Embrace the wonder and awe of nature and allow it to guide your character's journey.

Arborians (Arbor Elves) Traits

Arbor Elves possess innate abilities and characteristics that stem from their profound bond with the mystical trees of The Everbloom. As masters of nature and guardians of their sacred homeland, they are attuned to the forces of the natural world.

Arboreal Affinity

Arborians have a deep connection to nature and gain proficiency in the Nature skill.

Barkskin

The bark-like skin of Arborians grants them natural armor, making them naturally resilient. This natural armor provides a permanent increase of 1 to their Armor Class. Whether they are wearing armor or not, their bark-like skin provides a protective barrier, enhancing their defenses against attacks.

Grove Tender

Arborians possess an innate ability to manipulate and control plant life. Once per long rest, they can cast the Druidcraft cantrip, allowing them to create small, magical effects related to plants and the natural environment.

In addition to casting the Druidcraft cantrip, Arborians can "speak" with most living plants through a series of visions. The Arborian must retain full concentration when communing with a plant, and the plant must still be alive and rooted to a source of life, such as the ground or potted soil.

Starting at level 6, the Arborians are able to commune with fungi as well as plants so long as they follow the same criteria as above.

Everbloom Legacy

Due to their unique life cycle, Arborians are immune to being magically put to sleep, and they have advantage on death saving throws.

Additionally, when they drop to 0 hit points but are not killed outright, they can choose to drop to 1 hit point instead. This ability can be used once per long rest.

Seasonal Affinity

Arborians' connection to the natural world deepens with the changing of the seasons. Depending on the season, an Arborian gains access to a specific cantrip associated with that time of year. The cantrips available are as follows:

Spring: Mold Earth - Plane of Earth

Summer: Control Flames - Plane of Fire

Fall: Gust - Plane of Air

Winter: Frostbite - Plane of Ice

The Arborians are innately able to cast all of these cantrips, but can only cast them during their appropriate season. If the Arborian is in another plane of existence separated from the mortal realm, they lose access to these abilities. However, if they are in a plane that is aspected towards the associated element of their cantrip (such as the Plane of Fire), they can cast the respective cantrip associated with that element.

Additionally, the Arborians physical appearance will change depending on the season. During the Spring, their colors are typically bright, colorful, and adorned with flowers. During the Summer, their colors are typically a deep emerald green, with lush ivies and mosses. During the Fall, their colors are typically shaded with red, orange and yellow hues, with leaves falling from their branches. During the Winter, their colors are typically muted to a pale white, save for the Frostbloom flora that grows on their branches for the duration of the winter. These Frostbloom petals can glow with bioluminescence, should the Arborian so desire.

Photosynthetic Vitality

Arborians possess a unique ability to harness both natural and artificial sources of light for healing and sustenance. They have two methods to replenish their energy: absorbing sunlight and consuming food. Both practices are essential for their overall well-being.

When absorbing sunlight, Arborians must bask in the light for a full hour to consider themselves sated. This can be natural sunlight or light conjured by magical or artificial means, as long as it emulates the nourishing properties of sunlight. Firelight or other standard light sources do not fulfill this requirement.

This solar absorption process rejuvenates their bodies and accelerates their natural healing abilities. It helps mend wounds, replenish vitality, and enhance their overall health. Arborians find solace in finding a serene spot where they can connect with the radiant energy of light, allowing it to infuse them with renewed vitality.

While sunlight is a vital aspect of their sustenance, Arborians also possess the ability to consume regular food like any other standard race. They enjoy the flavors and textures of various cuisines and can partake in meals as a source of pleasure and cultural expression.

It is important for Arborians to receive at least one hour of sunlight within a 24-hour period to maintain their optimal health and well-being. Falling short of this requirement may result in a gradual decline in vitality, leading to fatigue and potential health complications. They prioritize finding opportunities to embrace the nourishing light of the sun or its magical counterparts, understanding the vital role it plays in their existence.

Sunlit Restoration

When an Arborian takes a Short Rest while in direct sunlight, they can achieve a state of deep rejuvenation and replenishment, allowing them to treat it as a Full Rest. The warm embrace of sunlight enhances their natural healing abilities, restoring their vitality and rejuvenating their body and mind. However, if direct sunlight is not available, the Arborian must take a standard Full Rest like other races.

Elven Heritage

Arborians can speak, read, and write Common, Elvish, and Primordial (Terran dialect) in addition to any other languages they may learn. The Primordial language, specifically the Terran dialect, reflects their deep connection to the earth and natural elements, symbolizing their affinity with The Everbloom and the grounding forces of nature.

You may also choose one additional language for your Arborian to understand and speak, thanks to the deep cultural heritage that exists within them.