Homebrew Aikós Species Details
The Aikós, an ancient and archaic race of beings, graced the surface with their enigmatic presence thousands of years ago. Once inhabitants of the surface, they vanished from the realms of sunlight and open skies, retreating into the depths of the Fathomless, leaving behind an enduring mystery.
Ashen Wings
The Aikós are an alien-like humanoid race, possessing uncanny features, as well as enhanced biology compared to others. Towering between 9 to 12 feet in height, the Aikós have a deceptively light weight, belying their imposing stature. Most Aikós weigh in at around 50 to 100 pounds, being rare for them to weigh more or less than that range. Their skin, a fragile mystery, cloaks their sturdy, slender bones, revealing no trace of any conventional dermis. Instead of the familiar tones and textures seen in other beings, the Aikós exhibit a semi-translucent membrane, revealing the framework of their skeletal structure. The skin, almost crystalline in appearance, refracts ambient light in odd patterns.
Aikós have different appearances and coloration from person to person, most notably the mono-colored halos that hang above their heads. The halos match that of their spine color, which can range from dull colors such as white, tan, grey, and black. Aikós speak through their two worm-like antennas that hang around their neck, producing sound at a multitude of frequencies. Some Aikós have eyes near the top of their foreheads, others use their mouths to scout their surroundings.
Timeless Epoch
With their extended lifespan of up to 450 years, they navigate the passage of time with a perspective that transcends the brevity of human existence. Their longevity grants them the opportunity to accumulate a wealth of experiences, wisdom, and a profound understanding of the world around them. Aikós undergo a unique life cycle, reaching adulthood around the age of 55. During the initial decades of their lives, they age at a rate comparable to humans, forming connections, delving into pursuits, and engaging in the tapestry of existence. It is during this time that they cultivate skills, develop relationships, and explore the mysteries of the surface world.
Around the age of 120, the aging process of the Aikós undergoes a remarkable shift. At this juncture, they enter a state of suspended animation, ceasing to age physically while maintaining their vitality and cognitive acuity. This pause in the aging process becomes a distinctive phase in their lives, often referred to as the "Timeless Epoch." During this period, the Aikós are said to deepen their understanding of the metaphysical energies that course through the world, honing their innate connection to the non-sentient life. The Timeless Epoch allows the Aikós to serve as guardians of ancient knowledge, repositories of the collective experiences of their people. It is during this time that they may assume roles of leadership, guiding their community with a blend of ageless wisdom and a keen awareness of the ever-changing currents of existence.
As the Aikós approach the latter years of their lifespan, their physical form gradually wanes, and the luminosity of their skin intensifies, casting a radiant glow. When the end of their journey approaches, the Aikós are believed to undergo a transition, merging their essence with the energies of the Fathomless, becoming one with the subterranean realm they have called home for millennia.
The Fathomless
The Fathomless, a colossal and ancient subterranean expanse, serves as the mystical and verdant abode of the Aikós. This vast underground cavern sprawls beneath the surface, extending across the entirety of the world like a hidden network. Within its depths lie wonders and secrets, and it is within this hallowed realm that the Aikós found refuge thousands of years ago, leaving the surface world behind.
Within the enigmatic confines of the Fathomless, the Aikós have forged a complex and harmonious society, each member taking on varied roles and professions that contribute to the flourishing of their underground communities. Pursuing professions unique to their home, or those that are common in every community, the Aikós are wonderful Harmony Keepers (specialize in maintaining the delicate equilibrium of the Fathomless), Luminary Artisans (skilled in crafting artifacts infused with the Veltkranine essence of the Fathomless), Soulshapers (masters of the metaphysical arts, channeling the energies of the Fathomless to enhance the well-being of their community through healing, spiritual guides, and caretakers), as well as farmers, hunters, and much more.
Beyond the Veil
The Aikós' inherent curiosity serves as a driving force, compelling them to explore the intricate recesses of the Fathomless and, for some, to harbor a fascination with the world above. Aikós who seek to adventure may have many different reasons, whether to traverse uncharted territories in the Fathomless, understand the Veltkranine connection to their home, build farther and farther for their home, and for a small amount, find a way to the surface.
This collective curiosity not only enriches the Aikós' understanding of their environment but also fosters a dynamic and adaptable society. The interplay between explorers, observers, and diplomats creates a tapestry of experiences that shapes the Aikós' perception of themselves in relation to both the subterranean sanctuary and the ever-changing world above. The Aikós' insatiable curiosity is a testament to their quest for knowledge and their continual engagement with the mysteries that surround them.
Aikós Traits
The Aikós have a multitude of traits and abilities that they have harnessed over centuries.Ability Score Increase
Your Dexterity score is increased by 2.
Age
Aikós can reach a maximum of 450 years old, and reach maturity at around age 55. Around the age of 120, the aging process of the Aikós goes into a process called "Timeless Epoch", where they stop aging until around their given age maximum.
Size
Aikós typically grow in-between 9 and 12 feet in height with extremely skinny but oddly shaped legs that give them the ability to maneuver quickly. They also possess a deceptively light weight, typically weighing 50 to 100 pounds. Your size is medium.
Speed
Your base walking speed is 35 feet.
Light as a Feather
You have proficiency in the Stealth skill.
Move With Passion
Due to your light weight, you're able to take the Dash action as a bonus action on each of your turns in combat.
Darkvision
Being underground for most, if not all of your life, or having lineage from the depths, has enhanced your senses. You can see in dim light within 60 feet of you as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. You can’t discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.
Veltkranine Enhanced
Veltkranine energy has affected the way your body functions, changing in mysterious ways. You're able to cast the Shillelagh spell once per long rest.
Languages
You speak, read, and write Common and one other language of your choice.