Orasians

Orasians are a race of beings in Adaris, born from the coalesced consciousness of the earth within the realm of Terasil. As living embodiments of the earth’s consciousness, Orasians are intrinsically connected to the land, seeing themselves as both its protectors and integral parts of its very essence. This connection to the earth grants them unique abilities, a deep sense of purpose, and a culture centered around the preservation and balance of the natural world.

Origins and Nature

The concept of consciousness existing in all things is fundamental to the world of Adaris. In the case of the Orasians, this consciousness within the earth of Terasil began to coalesce over millennia, merging to form beings of greater awareness and intelligence. Orasians are not merely inhabitants of Terasil; they are the earth itself, given form and purpose. Their existence is a testament to the living, breathing nature of the land, embodying the stability, endurance, and slow but inevitable change inherent to the earth.

Formation of the Orasians

Orasians first emerged during the early days of Adaris, as the consciousness of the earth began to awaken to its own existence. Initially, they were massive, towering beings of stone and crystal, reflecting the raw power and stability of Terasil. Over time, as the earth’s consciousness became more refined, the Orasians took on distinct forms that mirrored the diverse geology of their realm. Today, while many Orasians have been reduced in size due to natural erosion, they still possess incredible strength and durability, their bodies retaining the hardness and resilience of stone.

Physical Characteristics

Orasians vary in size and shape.

Orasians are composed of living stone, infused with the consciousness of the earth. Their skin can vary from rough granite to smooth marble, often incorporating veins of minerals and crystals that reflect the unique geology of Terasil. As they age, their bodies continue to evolve, slowly taking on characteristics of the environments they inhabit.

Living Stone: The Orasians’ bodies are made from various types of stone, making them incredibly durable and resistant to physical harm. They do not age in the traditional sense but become more refined and sturdy over time, their forms adapting to the natural processes of erosion and renewal.

Endurance and Durability: As beings of stone, Orasians can endure extreme conditions, from the intense heat of the sun to the freezing cold of mountain peaks, with little discomfort. Their stony composition makes them nearly impervious to most forms of physical damage, and they can withstand great amounts of pressure and impact.

Variability: The appearance of Orasians can vary greatly depending on where they formed and the type of stone they are made from. Some may have rough, craggy surfaces, while others might be smooth and polished. This variability also reflects their personalities and roles within Orasian society, with those formed from harder stone often being more rigid and traditional, while those formed from softer stone may be more adaptable and open to change.

Cultural Beliefs and Society

Orasian culture is deeply intertwined with the concept of unity with the earth and the belief that they are part of a larger consciousness that flows through all things in Adaris. They see themselves as stewards of Terasil, tasked with maintaining the balance of the natural world and preserving the ancient traditions that connect them to their origins.

The Great Consciousness

Orasians believe in the "Great Consciousness," a vast, interconnected network of awareness that permeates all things in Adaris. They see themselves as individual nodes of consciousness contributing to the collective awareness of the earth. This belief fosters a strong sense of community and mutual responsibility among the Orasians, as they strive to maintain harmony within their society and with the land.

The Stone Cycle

Central to Orasian culture is the idea of the "Stone Cycle," a philosophy that emphasizes the slow, continuous process of change and renewal in the natural world. Just as stone is formed, eroded, and reformed over eons, the Orasians see their existence as part of a larger cycle of life, death, and rebirth. This belief instills in them a deep patience and a long-term perspective, guiding their actions and decisions with an eye toward the distant future.

Societal Structure

An Orasian Council

Orasian society is governed by the Council of Stone, a group of elder Orasians who have proven themselves deeply attuned to the Great Consciousness. These elders are chosen for their wisdom, experience, and ability to act as conduits for the will of the earth.

The Council of Stone: The governing body of Orasian society, made up of elder Orasians who represent different regions of Terasil. The Council meets in the Great Hall of Oras, where they discuss matters of state and make decisions for the good of the realm.

Clans and Castes: Orasian society is divided into clans, each associated with a particular type of stone or region of Terasil. Within each clan, there are various castes that reflect the different roles and responsibilities of its members, including the Guardians, Keepers, Shapers, and Wanderers.

Abilities and Magic

As embodiments of the earth’s consciousness, Orasians possess unique abilities that allow them to interact with and manipulate the stone and soil of Terasil.

Earth Manipulation: Orasians have the innate ability to manipulate stone and soil, shaping it into structures, creating barriers, or even causing minor earthquakes. Their power is strongest when they are in direct contact with the earth.

Stone Communion: Orasians can commune with the earth and stone, allowing them to sense changes in the land, locate hidden resources, and even communicate with Earthbound Spirits. This ability also allows them to "read" the history of a place through the vibrations and echoes stored in the rock.

Regeneration: While Orasians cannot heal like organic beings, they can slowly regenerate by absorbing minerals from the earth. This process is slow and requires them to be in a state of deep meditation or rest within a stone sanctuary.

History and Legends

The remains of the once might monolith that Orasians believe was the first tangible thing created in Adaris.

The history of the Orasians is one of endurance and resilience, shaped by the natural processes of erosion and renewal that govern their existence. Throughout their long history, the Orasians have faced numerous challenges, from internal conflicts to external threats, each of which has left its mark on the landscape of Terasil.

The Awakening

The Orasians first emerged during a period known as the Awakening, when the consciousness of the earth began to coalesce and take form. During this time, the Orasians were massive, towering beings of stone and crystal, embodying the raw power and stability of the earth.

The Erosion Wars

The Erosion Wars were a series of ancient internal conflicts where Orasians battled against forces that sought to weaken and erode their realm. These wars were fought against foreign wind invaders and internal conflicts between different factions of Orasians. The scars of these wars are still visible in the form of vast canyons and shattered mountains.

The Slumbering Ancients

Legends speak of a hidden valley deep within Terasil where the last of the massive Ancients sleep, sheltered from the forces of wind and water. It is said that when Terasil faces its greatest threat, these Ancients will awaken to protect the realm. This legend is a source of hope and reverence, but also fear, as the awakening of the Ancients could herald a time of great upheaval.

The Shattered Pillar

An ancient monolith once stood at the heart of Terasil, believed to be the first structure created by Oras. It was shattered eons ago, and its fragments are now scattered across the realm. Orasians believe that reuniting the fragments could restore the monolith’s power and bring about a new age of prosperity.

Summary

The Orasians are beings born from the coalescence of the earth’s awareness. They see themselves as integral parts of Terasil and Adaris, tasked with protecting and preserving the natural world. With a culture deeply rooted in the earth and a history marked by conflict and resilience, the Orasians stand as steadfast guardians of the realm, ensuring that the balance of Adaris is maintained for millennia to come.

Gallery

The Orasians formed from the coalition of consciousness present in earth.
A meeting of Orasians.