Dryad

Dryads are a rather unique subspecies of human, descended from a later generation of the human diaspora that underwent extensive genetic self-modification. Though they resemble humans, dryads are symbiotic hosts for an assortment of plants and algae, both for aesthetic and biotechnical purposes.

Biology

Anatomy & Morphology

Dryads are similar to true humans in most respects, though they differ from unaltered humans in a few key respects. Like Nereids, their skin inherits a greenish tone from the symbiotic algae found just under the outer epidermis, though dryads take this modification further by integrating moss and other bryophytes into their integumentary system in certain regions (such as the scalp and back.) This symbiosis is primarily for air filtration, responsible for ensuring proper oxygenation in the high-carbon atmosphere of Demeter.

Ecology

Geographic Origin & Distribution

The dryad subspecies of human originated on the planet Demeter in the Olympia star system. They are moderately less common than true humans.

Civilization & Culture

Demeterian civilization is centered around biotechnology and has a strong focus on agriculture, resulting in its reputation as the archetypical "garden planet." Dryad culture resembles that of both elves and halflings, with a heavy emphasis on natural science and the arts undercut by their hedonistic streak.

Major Organizations

Major Language Groups & Dialects

Culture & Heritage

Common Traditions

Common Taboos

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Human

Scientific Name

Homo sapiens bryophoreas

Average Height

1.8 m

Average Weight

56 kg (1G)

Biotype

biochemical multicellular

Biochemical base

carbon

Genetics

DNA

Solvent

H₂O

Respiration compounds

O₂

Sophont formclass

Humanoid (posthuman)

Physiotype

vertical bilaterally symmetric tetrapod (endoskeletal acaudal)

Sapience type

focal centric

Homeworld

Demeter

Home system

Olympia

Tech level

13

Tolerances

Gravity limit

1.4 G

Pressure range

0.6 to 2.5 atm

Air mix

20% to 70% O2

Temperature range

10 to 30 °C

Radiation limit

0.25 J/kg

Interspecies Relations

Hyperlanes Info

Physical Traits

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ABILITY SCORE

DEX increases by 1 and CON increases by 1

BASE SPEED

30 feet

SIZE CLASS

Medium

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Natural Camouflage

Your mossy appearance grants you advantage on Stealth rolls in natural environments.

Symbiont

Your photosynthetic symbionts provide one additional 1d12 Hit Die for use when recovering Hit Points, and you have advantage on CON saves against gaseous toxins.

Cultural Traits

Suggested culture: Demeterian

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ABILITY SCORE

INT increases by 2
CHA increases by 1

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Curiosity

You are proficient in the Insight, Investigation, or Perception skill (choose 1).

Intricate Culture

You are proficient in a CHA skill of your choice.

Ecocentric

You are proficient in the Nature skill.