Loa

Loa is the name given to the animistic spirits of the natural world that originated in Aeth. Countless Loa exist, most weak, but some are very powerful and have been known to become powerful beings, like the Primal Furies, or spirits like Wisps. Most are shapeless, whereas others have animal or creature forms. Powerful and enlightened druids can become Loa upon their death - or so it is believed, embodying the form of their druid-shapes. Many of the Loa make their home within the Astral Sea in the Garden of the Loa.
Early on in the world of Aeth, all shared common worship of spirits and religion: the worship and reverence of the Primordial Green, and the Primal Furies. These Loa had in the infancy of the world of Aetheus had priests that were devoted to only one Loa, while druids were capable of using the powers of several Loa at once. This is something that the Loa do not like, as they prefer to be worshipped one at a time. Loa can channel themselves into their worshippers through the use of ceremonial masks.
The Loa can grant wondrous boons or inflict terrible punishments. Tales abound in the cultures of the world, of those blessed by the Loa with extraordinary regenerative abilities. But as the Loa can bless, they can also curse. Children are taught legends of those cursed by the Loa, unable to heal even fresh wounds, to instil proper respect for nature and their patron spirits.
Loa originally gained strength and power by competing with other Loa in the world of Aeth. However, in the present, Loa can only grow in power and strength by gaining more worshippers, offerings, idols and sacrifices. Carrying the symbol of a Loa can help strengthen them.