This section delves into the enigmatic beings that shape the very fabric of existence: the Celestial Dryads and their creations.
Imagine beings older than time itself, traversing the vast expanse of the galaxy. These are the Celestial Dryads, ethereal entities woven from pure energy. Unlike gods who rule with dominion, Celestial Dryads exist in a symbiotic dance with the cosmos. They consume stellar energy to sustain themselves, some nomadically wandering from star to star, while others choose to settle, their roots anchoring them to a single star.
Celestial Dryads possess an extraordinary ability – they can manipulate the very fabric of reality. While all Celestial Dryads appear feminine in form, they lack the biological aspects of reproduction. By channeling the stellar energy they consume in a manner similar to asexual reproduction, they can birth new beings into existence, including new Celestial Dryads. This act, however, is not without consequence. It requires a significant expenditure of their own essence, and if a Celestial Dryad exhausts its energy reserves, it ceases to be.
One such Celestial Dryad, known as Gaia, chose Earth as her home. Here, she nurtured the young planet, fostering the birth of life in all its vibrant forms. The Kijikaiaku, benevolent spirits that safeguard nature, are a testament to her creative power. But not all Celestial Dryads share Gaia's benevolence. Yile, another Celestial Dryad, harbors a selfish and misguided ambition – to claim Earth's, and subsequently Gaia's, energy for her own. To further her goals, she has given rise to the Subtalleons, spiritual entities that mirror the Kiji.
Both Kiji and Tallies are beings of pure spirit, lacking a fully physical form. Similar to Celestial Dryads, they can absorb ambient energy, but lack the power of creation. While invisible to most, some possess a greater essence or mass, granting them the ability to subtly interact with the physical world, akin to mischievous poltergeists. Those attuned to the unseen realms, or those who wield magic, may perceive them.
This glimpse into the world of Celestial Dryads and their creations unveils a universe brimming with possibilities, where the lines between life force and existence itself blur. As we continue below, we will share more about the unique characteristics of the Kiji and Tallies.
This wondrous act allows Kiji to channel the world's energy, weaving it with their own essence to form a new being. It is a collaborative effort, often involving multiple summoners, each contributing their energy to the nascent Kiji. The resulting Kiji often exhibits traits that echo the characteristics of its creators, both in form and temperament. There's no limit to the number of summoners who can participate, and the amount of energy each contributes can vary. However, the more balanced and potent the combined energy, the stronger and more stable the new Kiji will be.
While the summoning process can occur anywhere on Earth, most Kiji are brought into existence within the Core, a place of immense energy that serves as the wellspring of their being. This sacred location ensures the new Kiji has a strong foundation and a deep connection to Gaia's essence.
An interesting aspect of Kiji creation involves the use of energy from fallen Kiji. When a Kiji's essence is used in the summoning process, there's a chance the revived Kiji will retain some memories of its past life. These memories aren't those of the summoners, but rather fragments of the Kiji's previous existence. Additionally, the energy used in the summoning can influence the new Kiji's abilities and personality. The season in which the summoning takes place can also play a role, subtly shaping the Kiji's appearance and temperament.
While their creation shares some similarities, Kiji view their existence as distinct from reincarnation. Unlike a soul reborn into a new body, a summoned Kiji is a new being entirely, infused with echoes of the past. This perspective fosters a deep respect for their fallen brethren, as their essence contributes to the continuation of their kind. It's important to note that Kiji are limited in their ability to create. While they can summon other Kiji, they cannot directly create other beings. However, they can play a supportive role in the creation of Tallies.
Summoning is an inherent ability for all Kiji, though inexperienced ones may be hesitant at first. The process requires focus and a deep understanding of energy manipulation. While the basic steps are instinctive, mastering the art takes time and practice. Summons can fail if there's not enough energy to sustain the creation, or if the summoners are too inexperienced and lose control of the flow. A successful summoning is a delicate dance, requiring expertise and a touch of intuition. The creation of a Kiji is a momentous occasion, a celebration of new life woven from the very fabric of the world.
While their elongated, snake-like bodies evoke a reptilian sense, the Kiji heads possess an undeniable resemblance to a fox. Sharp teeth, though not intended for tearing flesh, can be used for display of dominance, playful sparring with other Kiji, or for gripping wisps of resilient soul energy as they gather it for Gaia's core. Long, prehensile, fleshy whiskers twitch around their muzzles, acting as both sensory organs and conduits for drawing energy. These whiskers come in a variety of lengths and may have various adornments on their tips, adding to the Kiji's mesmerizing appearance.
Long, pointed ears perk up at the slightest sound, while their eyes, often red in reflection of Gaia's core energy, pierce the unseen world. Their feline noses twitch, detecting subtle nuances in the environment. The Kiji's feet possess three sharp clawed toes on each paw, perfect for swift travel and precise movements. These feet resemble those of ostriches or emus, allowing for silent and efficient locomotion. Their front legs, though inspired by a fox's form, share a surprising characteristic with humans – flexible wrists with opposable thumbs alongside their three fingers. This allows them to manipulate objects and perform delicate tasks unseen by human eyes.
Kiji can vary greatly in size, ranging from the playful stature of a Labrador retriever to the imposing presence of a draft horse. While the occasional Kiji may fall outside this spectrum, the average size falls around that of a brown bear, standing roughly 4-5 feet tall at the shoulder.
Each Kiji possesses unique markings and physical traits that manifest upon their summoning. These variations extend beyond color, creating a breathtaking tapestry of individual characteristics. While their coat colors range across the entire color spectrum, it’s important to remember that Kiji remain invisible to most, flitting through the world as guardians, leaving only whispers of their presence for the select few who possess the gift of sight.
Woven from the very essence of the planet, Kiji are ethereal guardians who flit unseen through the natural world. Unlike species of flesh and bone, these beings lack a reproductive system, existing in a state of perpetual being as long as their energy reserves hold out. Should a Kiji stray too far from Gaia's core, the wellspring of their existence, and neglect to replenish their essence, they eventually fade, their energy dissipating into the world until rediscovered by others. The first Kiji, Kokoro, stands as a testament to their longevity, a constant presence drawing upon the core's power.
While invisible to most, Kiji possess senses that dwarf those of any human. Their keen hearing can detect sounds over ten miles away, and their sense of smell allows them to perceive subtle nuances in the environment. They are not limited solely to the physical world, possessing the ability to detect subtle energies and unseen phenomena. This exceptional awareness, coupled with their impressive intellect, makes them ideal guardians, bridging the gap between species and fostering harmony in the natural world. Kiji possess the remarkable ability to communicate with a vast array of beings, their voices a bridge between the physical and the ethereal.
However, these guardians aren't invincible. Most Kiji lack the ability to fly independently, relying on either the assistance of Gaia's energy or enchanted tools to take to the skies. While some exceptionally powerful members can manipulate their energy for flight, such feats are rare. Despite their connection to the core's immense heat, Kiji are not immune to physical harm. They are not inherently magical either, lacking the ability to manipulate the world through spells or conventional magic. However, some Kiji possess the extraordinary ability to unleash elemental breaths, a testament to their deep connection with the natural world. Interestingly, Kiji tend to have a stronger affinity for fire than other elements, perhaps reflecting the core's own fiery essence.
Kiji do not require sustenance in the traditional sense. They can, however, directly consume organic material, converting it into the energy they transport to Gaia's core. Inorganic substances, on the other hand, are useless to them and eventually expelled. While Kiji don't require sleep in the same way biological creatures do, they can enter a meditative state for rejuvenation and focus. Unlike most living things, they are also immune to most natural diseases, those of which of magical nature still being able to effect them. However, they are susceptible to mental ailments, a vulnerability that can be just as debilitating as any physical illness.
The amount of energy a Kiji can carry depends on their individual reserves. These reserves are manifested as a subtle luminescence on their skin, the more that shows, the greater the energy they can hold and transport. Interestingly, Kiji cannot store energy within themselves to replenish their reserves. This vital act can only be performed by Gaia's core, the source of their being. While they can release the energy they have absorbed, there's not much practical use for doing so.
Further complicating matters, Kiji's ability to interact with the physical world varies. Those with a greater mass possess a limited ability to manipulate objects, similar to a mischievous poltergeist. Those with less mass are entirely invisible and intangible. Despite this limitation, Kiji can sense and communicate with other beings of pure energy, a hidden network that allows them to share information and coordinate their efforts in protecting the world. These silent guardians, unseen by most, ensure the delicate balance of nature remains intact, their existence a testament to the interconnectedness of all things.
Communication for Kiji transcends the limitations of language. Sure, they possess a unique communication system comprised of sounds and gestures understood only by their kind. Yet, their abilities extend far beyond. They possess an inherent understanding of all languages, both spoken and written, allowing them to communicate with every living being on the planet, from the simplest creature to the most advanced civilization. This understanding transcends mere words; it delves into the deeper essence of communication, allowing them to interpret the will, needs, and desires of others. While telepathy isn't the correct term, Kiji possess an exceptional ability to perceive the unspoken language of the heart. This makes them invaluable interpreters, bridging the gap between species and fostering harmony in the natural world. Their exceptional hearing also plays a role in this; Kiji can pick out lies from truth with remarkable ease by listening to the rhythm of a physical creatures heart.
Furthermore, Kiji are capable of forming close bonds with any creature, sapient or not. While most of these relationships resemble those of friends or family, a deep and abiding connection can form nonetheless. Romantic or sexual relationships, however, are not part of the Kiji experience.
Kiji society is not entirely without structure. They respect their elders and form hierarchies based on experience and wisdom. These silent observers, ever present yet unseen, play a vital role in maintaining the harmony of the world, their playful nature masking a deep well of responsibility.
The first generation of Tallies emerged directly from Yile's own power, potent and directly tied to her will. However, sustaining such creation proved taxing. Forced to be more economical, Yile began utilizing the very energy she was siphoning from Gaia to create subsequent generations of Tallies. This shift had an unintended consequence. As generations passed, the influence of Gaia's energy grew stronger within Tallies, subtly shaping their nature and diluting Yile's direct control. Younger generations, while still bound to Yile, began to exhibit a growing echo of Gaia's influence.
Tally creation is a unique summoning process unlike the Kiji's manipulation of raw energy. Tallies channel their energy into a vessel: an egg. Fertilized or not, the egg holds the potential for life, a blank canvas upon which the Tally's essence can be inscribed. The incubation period varies depending on the amount of energy invested, with more potent infusions leading to a shorter gestation time.
Interestingly, Tallies are not alone in this process. While a Tally must initiate it, other creatures with the ability to manipulate energy can assist, adding their own touch to the nascent Tally within the egg. This collaborative effort can influence the resulting Tally, as the additional energy interacts with the Tally's essence in unexpected ways. The nature of this energy can leave its mark. Energy collected from someone dying during war when used might imbue the Tally with a battle-hardened spirit, while energy collected from blooming flowers might inspire them to focus on self-growth. The possibilities are as varied as the world itself.
While Tally eggs can be incubated and hatched anywhere, a well-protected and hidden location exists for this momentous occasion: Meld's Nest. Situated near the entrance to the Abyss, Yile's domain, this nest serves as a focal point for Tally creation. Here, under the watchful gaze of Meld, a powerful Tally who oversees the process, new generations are brought forth. The nest itself is a fascinating anomaly, imbued with a subtle energy that nourishes and protects the incubating eggs.
However, the environment plays a role as well. Those Tallies fortunate enough to hatch within Meld's Nest and be nannied by Meld often develop a stronger connection to Yile. This conditioning, subtle yet pervasive, fosters a deeper loyalty to their creator's cause. The type of egg used in the summoning process, however, has no bearing on the outcome. A bird's egg, monotreme egg, or a reptile's egg – it matters not. What matters is the essence poured into it, the energy that shapes the Tally and sets it on its unique path. Surprisingly, most fish eggs are not viable to use as they lack a thick enough membrane or shell.
It's important to understand that both Tallies and Yile are not inherently malicious. They operate from a different perspective, one driven by their own needs and desires. Tallies, bound to Yile by their very creation, view their role as a form of service, a necessary function in the grand scheme of things. Yile, in turn, seeks to secure her own existence and power. These contrasting goals bring them into conflict with Gaia and the Kiji, who strive to maintain the world's natural balance.
Tallies possess powerful, finned tails that propel them through water with remarkable speed and agility. These fins seamlessly transition into magnificent, wing-like appendages that grant them the freedom to traverse the skies. This unique combination allows them to navigate both aquatic and terrestrial realms with ease, making them elusive and unpredictable adversaries.
The Tally's form embodies a fascinating duality. Their front half resembles a majestic horse, complete with a flowing mane and a powerful build. This equine aspect lends them an air of nobility and grace. However, their back half deviates from the terrestrial, transitioning into the sleek form of a fish or aquatic mammal. This aquatic influence hints at their connection to the hidden depths and the power that lies within.
Similar to the Kiji, Tallies exhibit a range in size. They can be as small as a miniature horse, standing around 3 feet tall at the withers, or as imposing as a draft horse, reaching a height of 7 feet at the withers. The average Tally, however, falls around the size of a thoroughbred horse, standing roughly 5.5 feet tall at the withers.
Like the Kiji, Tallies come in a breathtaking array of colors. Unlike their counterparts, however, the hues adorning their wings and tail fins directly reflect the energy they absorb from the world around them. This creates a mesmerizing ever-shifting display of colors, each Tally a unique reflection of the environments they have touched. Each Tally boasts unique markings and physical traits that manifest upon their creation. These variations extend beyond color, creating a captivating tapestry of individual characteristics. This ensures that no two Tallies are exactly alike, each one a mesmerizing embodiment of Yile's power and the chaotic energy they consume.
Despite their imposing size and captivating beauty, Tallies remain unseen by most. They flit between the realms, leaving only fleeting glimpses of their shimmering forms for those attuned to the unseen world.
While not immortal in the strictest sense, Tallies exist for a very long time. However, their lifespan is directly tied to their energy reserves. When their reserves dwindle, they become sluggish and disoriented. Unlike the Kiji, whose essence lingers for a while after depletion, a Tally's energy dissipates quickly upon death, making revival a near-impossible feat.
Tallies possess keen senses, though not as exceptional as the Kiji. Their hearing excels underwater, allowing them to detect sounds within a three to five-mile radius. However, their above-ground hearing is less impressive. Despite their impressive senses, Tallies prioritize self-preservation. They possess a strong aversion to pain and injury, a stark contrast to the Kiji's resilience.
Unlike the Kiji, Tallies cannot communicate with a vast array of beings. Their connection is primarily to the unseen world, allowing them to interact with other entities of pure energy. However, Tallies have a strong dislike for being compared to lesser creatures, and will often avoid interaction with non-sentient beings altogether.
While lacking the Kiji's elemental abilities, Tallies possess the remarkable ability to fly. Their shimmering wings and powerful builds grant them incredible aerial maneuverability, allowing them to navigate the skies with unmatched grace. Additionally, Tallies exhibit a strong affinity for water. Their aquatic features and inherent connection to the Abyss, the source of their power, make them formidable predators within the depths. Unlike the Kiji, who can convert organic material into energy, Tallies lack this ability. Their digestive system is similar to most creatures, and anything they attempt to consume will be promptly expelled.
Despite their parasitic nature, Tallies play an undeniable role in the world's ecosystem. Their presence subtly influences the flow of energy, and their connection to the Abyss ensures a certain balance is maintained. These enigmatic beings, unseen by most, weave through the world, showing how interconnected things are, even those that exist in the shadows.
Despite their limitations, Tallies possess a unique communication system comprised of sounds and gestures understood only by their kind. However, their ability to comprehend extends beyond their own language. They possess an innate understanding of the basic intentions and desires of living creatures. While not as sophisticated as the Kiji's mastery of the "language of the heart," it allows them to glean valuable information from the world around them. This talent for interpretation, coupled with their exceptional hearing, makes them adept eavesdroppers. However, unlike the Kiji who use their knowledge for the betterment of the world, Tallies leverage theirs for self-preservation or the advancement of Yile's agenda.
The concept of love takes a peculiar form amongst Tallies. Despite their introverted nature and general distrust, they are capable of forming deep bonds with one another. These relationships transcend mere friendship, encompassing loyalty and even a form of romantic love, though not a sexual one. The shared burden of their existence and the constant internal struggle against Yile's influence creates a powerful connection that binds them together.
Loyalty, however, is a double-edged sword for Tallies. Those who remain steadfastly loyal to Yile view every living being as inherently inferior, destined to serve their capricious creator. Defiance against Yile's will is not tolerated. However, Tallies who have begun to question their role are more open to liberal ideas. They are willing to see others as equals, understanding that not all beings welcome Yile's influence.
This generational divide extends beyond their loyalty to Yile. Different Tally generations have varying perspectives on their role in the world. The older generations, hardened by eons of service, see their task as an unwavering duty. The younger generations, however, are more susceptible to the world around them. They exhibit a nascent sense of empathy, their hearts flickering with a spark of compassion that challenges the established order. This generational clash holds the potential to reshape the very foundation of Tally society.
While Tallies can communicate with other beings of pure energy, their ability to understand them pales in comparison to the Kiji. Their reliance on interpretation makes genuine connection difficult, requiring prolonged periods of interaction to establish even a basic understanding. This further isolates them from others of their kind, creating a lonely existence for even the most social Tally.
The future of the Tallies remains uncertain. Will they continue to be Yile's loyal servants, or will the whispers of rebellion transform their society? The answer lies within the hearts of these complex creatures, caught in a struggle between duty and empathy, resentment and the potential for connection.
Our world teems with a vibrant tapestry of life, a breathtaking blend of the real and the fantastical. Humans, though significant, are but a single thread in this magnificent weave. Their numbers are dwarfed by the vast array of sentient and sapient species who call Earth home. These beings possess a remarkable diversity in communication, with each species boasting its own unique language or method of exchanging thoughts and ideas. And for many, the ability to manipulate the world's very essence, to wield magic, adds another layer of complexity and wonder to this extraordinary planet.
All creatures native to Earth, from the towering giants of the forest to the tiniest insects, owe their existence to Gaia, the benevolent embodiment of the planet's life force. Her creative touch is evident in the staggering biodiversity that graces our world. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule.
Eris, Gaia's beloved sister, once possessed a world teeming with life. Tragically, a devastating illness ravaged her domain, forcing some of her creations to flee and seek refuge on a healthy world – Earth. These refugees, while few in number, add another facet to Earth's unique biosphere.
While winged humanoids are part of Gaia's creations, the true angels and demons hail from a different plane of existence altogether. These celestial beings, though powerful, rarely grace our world with their presence. Even rarer are the dimensional drifters, creatures who possess the ability to traverse the boundaries between worlds, bringing with them a touch of the unknown.
The following is a brief glimpse into some of the common creatures and sophonts that share our world: