The Dricte are a race of large, reptilian humanoids from the southern regions of Ikune. Their formidable appearance and immense size set them apart from the other races, though their past as a people once oppressed by dragons makes them sensitive to any comparison to their draconic oppressors. Adapted to thrive in warm climates, they possess unique regenerative abilities and a strong bond with their clutchmates that defines much of their social structure.
Physical Characteristics
The Dricte are imposing, humanoid beings with distinct reptilian traits that give them an almost dragon-like appearance. Standing significantly taller than most other races, their large frames are covered in tough, overlapping scales that serve as natural armor. These scales come in a wide variety of colors, from deep greens and earthy browns to more exotic shades like red, blue, or gold. Despite the wide range of scale colors, each Dricte’s scales are typically a uniform shade across their entire body, though some may develop lighter or darker patches with age.
Their faces are elongated, with prominent snouts similar to those of large lizards, and their mouths are filled with sharp teeth. The Dricte possess long tails that help with balance and movement, especially in rugged or uneven terrain. They also lack visible ears, with small slits along the sides of their heads serving as the ears.
Being cold-blooded, Dricte rely on external sources of heat to function properly. They are highly efficient in warm environments, where they are energetic and active. In colder environments, however, they become sluggish and tired, and their biological processes slow down considerably. Their resistance to heat is so pronounced that some Dricte are even able to withstand extreme heat sources, with legends claiming that their scales can touch fire without injury.
One of the most remarkable traits of the Dricte is their ability to regenerate damaged tissue. In warm environments, they can recover from serious injuries at an accelerated rate, even to the point of regrowing lost limbs or recovering from wounds that would otherwise be permanent. However, this regenerative ability is completely dependent on warmth. In cold climates, their regenerative power halts, leaving them vulnerable to long-term damage if they cannot warm up, and if left like this, they risk the injuries becoming permanent even if they should return to warm places.
Behavior and Instincts
One of their most defining instincts is their strong connection to warmth. As cold-blooded beings, the Dricte are naturally inclined to seek out warm environments and will instinctively find ways to bask in sunlight or stay close to heat sources. This instinct is not just for comfort but is essential for their energy levels and physical functions. A Dricte deprived of warmth will become lethargic and less responsive, with their movements slowing and their bodies weakening until they can once again warm themselves.
Dricte have a deep bond with their clutchmates. Dricte hatch from eggs in clutches, and these hatchlings form incredibly strong, lifelong bonds with one another. This bond is so powerful that many Dricte end up working in the same profession or living together with their clutchmates, even well into adulthood. While individual Dricte may choose to break away from their clutch for personal reasons, they remain emotionally connected, often staying in touch through letters or other means of communication.
This close-knit bond serves as a survival mechanism, as Dricte rely heavily on their clutchmates for emotional and practical support. The instinct to remain close to one's hatchmates can drive many of their social and career choices, creating small groups of Dricte who move and work together as a single, cohesive unit.
