Devahni
| Other Names | Deva, Ashkari, Ashblood, Hornkin |
| Lifespan | 100 years |
| Average Height | 5’8” - 6’ |
It is said, as it is written. The Deva are of the most ancient empire. Their splendor, won by blood. A people who had spread their roots across the whole of the known world. From Ilica to Suldaza. Cities that shined. Cities that sang. Their lives as long as the Ring itself.
All turned to ash. The most ancient empire fell to ruin. Picked over by those who came out from its own hubris. Scattered to the wind by humans and elves, and all else who wished to cast off their timeless yoke.
Now many see the Deva as but shadows of what once was. Closer to the road and trail than any tail of long lost splendor. They are a people set adrift. More at home on the move, than any one place for too long.
From mercenary companies, to traveling merchant caravans, and troupes of performers, Devahni band together to form tight knit communities, taking great pride in whatever work finds them. Storytellers and performers hold a special place in Devahni society, passing on news from one band of Deva to another, whenever their paths do meet.
Biology
With blood that bleeds an amber gold, and horns the color of coal and ash, the Deva strike a mysterious figure in the imaginations of many a common folk. Add to that their eyes that shine at night, and pupils as long and sharp as knives and it is not so hard to see why they are often the boogeyman in many a children's tale.
Most Deva bear a pair of horns that sprout from their skulls, as well as sharp teeth, a tail, and nails more similar to a beast’s claws. But as all peoples, the expression of their personage is as varied and complex as any others.
Deva also have the innate ability to transform into a great beast. Most commonly, a horned big cat.
Most Deva bear a pair of horns that sprout from their skulls, as well as sharp teeth, a tail, and nails more similar to a beast’s claws. But as all peoples, the expression of their personage is as varied and complex as any others.
Deva also have the innate ability to transform into a great beast. Most commonly, a horned big cat.
Relationship with the Shroud
It is believed by many Devahni, that all of Deva blood are connected to the shroud, and that it is this connection to the Shroud that grants them the ability to adopt their primordial form. Thus, learning to control one's primordial form is often seen as a rite of passage in Devahni communities.
Due to this innate connection, to be a weaver is oft seen as a mark of greater trial and tribulation. An added weight to a life governed by the realities born to all Deva.
To bear the gift of weaving is of great importance in Devan society. Amidst many troupes and caravans, those who can wield the shroud are treated with great care. Revered and respected, just as much as they are feared.
Youths who are discovered to be weavers are often given to a mentor at an early age, or taken to a place of learning. To be without a master, or without proper learning, is to invite ruin. Not just to the individual Deva, but to all those Devahni around them.
Due to this innate connection, to be a weaver is oft seen as a mark of greater trial and tribulation. An added weight to a life governed by the realities born to all Deva.
To bear the gift of weaving is of great importance in Devan society. Amidst many troupes and caravans, those who can wield the shroud are treated with great care. Revered and respected, just as much as they are feared.
Youths who are discovered to be weavers are often given to a mentor at an early age, or taken to a place of learning. To be without a master, or without proper learning, is to invite ruin. Not just to the individual Deva, but to all those Devahni around them.
Contributors: Garuda
Last edited by a moderator: