Shu

Distinguished by their sturdy and compact build, the Shu are an intriguing race residing within the harsh, snowy and mountainous terrain of Dokeen, well-adapted to the unforgiving climate and rugged geography of their homeland.

Physical Attributes

The Shu are typically shorter than the average human, with heights ranging from 4 to 5 feet. Their stocky build, an adaptation to their cold environment, aids in the conservation of body heat. Their skin, hardened and roughened by the icy winds, ranges in tones from tan to a deep, weather-beaten brown. Their faces carry traces of their resilience, with pronounced cheekbones, deep-set eyes typically in hues of blue or grey, and furrowed brows. Their hair, often kept short, varies from deep brown to a stark white, with some Shu exhibiting natural streaks of silver even from a young age.

Lifestyle and Culture

Living high in the mountains, the Shu are known for their exceptional skill in mountaineering and their ability to survive in extreme conditions. Their settlements are often perched precariously on the slopes of Dokeen's highest peaks. These communities are intricate networks of stone and wood dwellings, built with impressive knowledge of the mountain's natural structure and designed to withstand the region's notorious avalanches and snowstorms.
The Shu people are resilient and resourceful, relying on small-scale farming on the lower slopes and herding of mountain goats for their sustenance. The scarcity of vegetation in the higher regions has also made them adept hunters of the scarce wildlife that survive in these frigid conditions.
One remarkable facet of Shu culture is their veneration of the reclusive monks residing in the ancient edifice, the The Temple of Ti-Lak. These monks, known for their mysterious 'memory work', are deeply respected by the Shu, and their communities are always established in proximity to the Temple, despite the thin air at such high altitudes.

Language and Communication

The Shu communicate in a language distinct from the other races of Gnosit. It is a throaty, harsh language, with complex tonal variations and an extensive sign language component – a necessity in the howling winds of Dokeen.
Despite the harsh conditions of their homeland, the Shu have not only survived but thrived, demonstrating incredible adaptability and resilience. Their fascinating culture, steeped in tradition and reverence for their harsh yet beautiful surroundings, continues to captivate the few outsiders privileged enough to encounter them.