Aasimar¶
Aasimar (pronounced AH-sih-mar) are mortals who carry a spark of divinity within their souls. Whether descended from an angelic being or infused with celestial power, they can fan that spark to bring light, healing, and heavenly fury. Aasimar can arise among any population of mortals, but they are exceedingly rare, with only one in every 100,000 births resulting in an Aasimar.
Origin & Creation¶
Aasimar are not a naturally occurring species but are instead created through divine intervention. They are often born to mortal parents as a result of a celestial blessing or the will of the Arch Gods, particularly Apaxia - Goddess of Life, Drox - God of Light, and occasionally Magillion - God of Knowledge or Faenira - Goddess of Nature. Some are direct descendants of celestial beings, while others are infused with divine energy through sacred rituals, exposure to powerful divine artifacts, or even acts of extreme virtue that draw divine favor. Due to their rarity, many Aasimar are seen as signs of divine purpose and are often sought out by religious orders or powerful rulers.
Sub Species & Ethnicities¶
Aasimar variants of most humanoid species exist but are most often seen within the halfling, human, and elven populations. They take on traits of their mortal heritage while retaining celestial influences. Because of their rarity, Aasimar seldom form distinct ethnic groups but instead integrate into their mortal communities.
Average Height & Build¶
They are usually taller than the average person of their mortal species. Their bodies grow faster than average and are naturally muscular and toned.
Skin, Hair, and Eye Colors¶
Aasimar have features that hint at their celestial heritage, such as metallic freckles, luminous eyes, a halo, or the skin color of an angel (silver, opalescent green, or coppery red). These features start subtle and become obvious when the Aasimar learns to reveal their full celestial nature.
Lifespan & Aging¶
Depending on their mortal heritage, Aasimar lifespans can vary, but they tend to live longer than their mortal counterparts. Their prime age lasts longer than other species, reaching adulthood earlier and experiencing old age later than normal.
Habitat & Settlements¶
Primary Locations¶
Aasimar can be found throughout Ocantos, but due to their rarity, they are seldom seen in large numbers. They are particularly concentrated in holy cities, temples, and regions blessed by divine influence. Some settle in the grand cities of humanity, while others seek isolated monasteries or sacred sites.
Architecture & Cities¶
Aasimar communities tend to favor grand, elegant architecture with an emphasis on celestial themes. However, because Aasimar are so rare, dedicated Aasimar settlements are almost nonexistent. Instead, they often integrate into existing civilizations, particularly those that revere the Arch Gods.
Nomadic vs. Settlers¶
While some Aasimar lead wandering lives as divine emissaries or champions of the gods, most prefer settled communities where they can train, teach, and guide others toward enlightenment. Due to their rarity, many become lone wanderers, seeking their divine purpose.
Society & Culture¶
Common Values & Beliefs¶
Aasimar prioritize virtue, duty, and enlightenment. They believe in upholding justice, healing the wounded, and guiding the lost. Many see themselves as protectors of mortals and act as mediators in conflicts.
Government & Social Structure¶
Aasimar often form theocratic societies or serve as spiritual leaders in larger civilizations. While they rarely rule directly, preferring to act as advisors, prophets, or religious figures, there have been exceptional cases where an Aasimar has taken the throne, usually in times of great crisis or divine mandate. However, because they are so uncommon, they rarely hold positions of widespread political power. Instead, they are more likely to act as advisors, prophets, or holy warriors within existing structures.
Relations with Other Species¶
Aasimar generally get along with most species but are often viewed with a mix of reverence and suspicion. While some see them as divine champions, others regard them with unease, fearing their otherworldly nature or suspecting them of arrogance. Their rarity and celestial heritage can make them seem distant or unknowable, leading some mortals to question their true motives. Some see them as divine champions, while others view them as unnatural or even arrogant. They tend to have strong alliances with elves and humans, but their relationships with dwarves can be strained due to differing religious views. Due to their rarity, many mortals go their entire lives without meeting an Aasimar, which can lead to myths and misconceptions about them.
Traditions & Customs¶
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Rite of Awakening: Aasimar undergo a spiritual awakening, typically during adolescence, where they manifest their celestial gifts for the first time.
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Day of Radiance: A sacred day where Aasimar gather to honor their celestial ancestry and seek divine guidance.
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Burial Rites: Aasimar bodies are often cremated in holy fire, and their ashes are scattered in sacred places to return to the divine realm.
Religion & Spirituality¶
Deities & Worship¶
Aasimar overwhelmingly follow the Arch Gods, particularly Apaxia, Drox, and Magillion. Some revere celestial beings as intermediaries between mortals and gods.
Sacred Sites & Rituals¶
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Celestial Sanctuaries: Hidden temples where Aasimar train and meditate on divine wisdom.
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Mirrored Pools: Sacred pools used for visions and prophecy.
Magic & Technology¶
Affinity for Magic¶
Aasimar possess an innate connection to divine magic. Many become clerics, paladins, or celestial sorcerers, channeling holy power for healing and smiting foes.
Technological Advancements¶
While they do not focus on technological innovation, they are skilled in crafting magical artifacts and divine relics.
Combat & Warfare¶
Common Fighting Styles¶
Aasimar excel in melee and radiant magic combat. They favor righteous warfare, often leading as champions or healers.
Weapons & Armor¶
They often wield blessed swords, maces, and radiant bows. Their armor is typically adorned with celestial symbols and imbued with divine protection.
Military Structure¶
Aasimar tend to organize into holy orders, knightly brotherhoods, or celestial legions dedicated to divine causes. However, given their rarity, it is uncommon to see entire armies composed of Aasimar.
Language & Names¶
Aasimar speak Celestial in addition to the language of their mortal heritage. Their names often have a lyrical or divine quality, resembling those of angels or saints (e.g., Seraphiel, Liora, Malachor, Azari).
History¶
Throughout history, Aasimar have played key roles in divine conflicts, crusades, and the downfall of tyrants. Due to their rarity, many Aasimar are remembered as legends rather than known historical figures.
Notable Figures & Legends¶
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Seraphis the Redeemer: An Aasimar warrior who led a rebellion against a tyrant king.
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Liora the Luminous: A saintly healer who could restore life with a touch.
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Malachor the Fallen: An Aasimar who turned against the gods and became a dark legend.
Miscellaneous Facts¶
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Aasimar can sense divine or fiendish presences instinctively.
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Their blood shimmers faintly under moonlight.
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Some mortals see them as omens of great change, for better or worse.
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Because of their rarity, encountering an Aasimar is considered an extraordinary event in many cultures.