Kalashtar

"When one speaks with a kalashtar, they should be aware that it is a three-way conversation. The uphina is as much a part of the kalashtar as the kalashtar is of it, despite the plane boundary. The connection offers insight, mental acuity, or any variety of powers depending on the individual. In some cases, the uphina itself is venerated in local legends more than the kalashtar body they worked alongside."

-Anthem Eyarn, Who the World Is

Kalashtar are sapient species originating from the island of Pulliday, southwest of the Fao mainland. Their innate connection to the spiritual plane allows them a companion called an uphina, with each one offering a different ability or skill to its associated kalashtar.

Basic Information

Biological Traits

While kalahstar are mostly noted for their spiritual connection, their bodies are unnatural compared to the other races in the fact that their immune systems don't seem to develop over time. A kalashtar is just as susceptible to illness at the age of seven as they are at the age of seventy. This also results in the inability for their bodies to learn and fend off the same disease even if they have already recovered from it just a few weeks prior.

Additional Information

Facial characteristics

Kalashtar appear similar to sun-tanned humans, with the more notable features being their reduced jaw and nostril size. Some kalashtar may have their marks visible on their faces, but when experiencing strong emotions, their eyes may start to visibly glow.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Kalashtar originate from the jungles and beaches of Pulliday, though some typically head for Fao upon completing a rite of passage if they wish to see more of the outside world.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Kalashtar are known to be more spiritually-attuned than other races, with most members of the species having a dedicated uphina, or spirit, that they are connected with. The uphina and kalashtar communicate more through emotions and sensations than with actual words. Additionally, kalashtar are capable of telepathy, with more attuned individuals able to establish a two-way telepathic line between itself and another individual.

Civilization and Culture

Beauty Ideals

Typically, an individual with a large mark sprawling across the body is highly sought after in the kalashtar community, both for romantic and occupational purposes. It signifies the strength of one's spirit and their connection with the environment and uphina. For this reason, the poultice used to mark young kalashtar is made using a closely-guarded recipe known only to one individual per village, and only to be administered by such.

Scientific Name

Homo uphinok

Lifespan

Varies

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Kalashtar possess marks similar to tattoos across an area of their body, though the range, number, and location vary by the individual. Some have sprawling marks that cover from their eyes to their ankles, while others may only have a single mark that can fit into the palm of their hand.
These marks are natural, though only visible if the individual is experiencing strong emotions or deeply connected with their uphina. In kalashtar communities, these are permanently applied very early on in the child's life with a black poultice, and thus visible even when the member is not in a heightened state. Otherwise, they could pass themselves off as sunburnt Metalmunchers.