Hu-mans

"We are not born of Goddark's hand, yet we walk among his creations, unseen and unbound. Our purpose is written in forbidden stars."

The Hu-Mans are a mysterious and unsettling presence in the universe of Tzion. Unlike other Sapiens, they were not crafted by Goddark, the Architect of Creation, but by the enigmatic Sumaya, spiritual beings from a forbidden universe beyond the control of the Astrals. Their very existence defies the natural order, raising questions about their purpose and the Sumaya’s ultimate intentions.

Hu-Mans are biologically indistinguishable from regular Humans, yet their origins set them apart. When Hu-Mans mix with other Humans, their descendants are always Hu-Mans, ensuring their spread across Tzion is both subtle and inevitable. Their proliferation, described as a "silent plague," has raised suspicions among those who uncover their secret, yet the truth behind their infiltration remains a deeply guarded mystery, set to be revealed in the unfolding Role-Finale Chronicles of Heroes.

Born of a Forbidden Universe

The Hu-Mans trace their origins not to Tzion but to a universe shrouded in secrecy and isolation. This forbidden realm lies beyond the Astrals' creation, untouched by their balance and authority. It is a place of immense spiritual energy, where the Sumaya reside as transcendent beings, crafting their plans far from the gaze of Goddark and his divine hierarchy.

The Sumaya's reasons for introducing the Hu-Mans into Tzion remain unclear. Some theorize that the Hu-Mans are a means of undermining the Architect's work, while others believe they are part of a larger, incomprehensible design. What is certain is that the Hu-Mans' creation was deliberate, and their genetic structure was designed to ensure their rapid integration into Tzion’s civilizations.

Hu-Mans resemble ordinary Humans in every way—physically, emotionally, and intellectually. However, subtle differences lie beneath the surface. They possess a latent connection to the Sumaya's forbidden power, though most Hu-Mans are unaware of this connection or its implications.

Hu-Mans in the Material Plane

In the material plane, Hu-Mans live alongside regular Humans, indistinguishable from their counterparts. They inhabit every corner of Tzion, from bustling cities to remote colonies, integrating seamlessly into the fabric of society.

Their ability to blend in makes them uniquely suited for espionage and infiltration, though not all Hu-Mans are aware of their origin or potential. Some live ordinary lives, completely ignorant of the spiritual forces that shaped their existence. Others, however, feel a subtle pull toward the Sumaya's will, manifesting as dreams, visions, or a sense of destiny.

To most mortals, Hu-Mans appear unremarkable. Their spread is gradual but inexorable, and their presence often goes unnoticed until patterns emerge. Scholars and sages who suspect the truth about Hu-Mans often struggle to distinguish them from regular Humans, as their true nature is veiled even from magical detection.

Culture of the Hu-Mans

The Hu-Mans lack a centralized culture, as their nature requires them to blend into the societies of Tzion. However, they share certain underlying traits that influence their behavior and philosophy:

  • Adaptability: Hu-Mans excel at integrating into diverse environments and cultures, often rising to positions of influence or leadership.
  • Subtlety: They are natural diplomats, manipulators, and strategists, preferring to achieve their goals through quiet influence rather than overt force.
  • Unity in Secrecy: While individual Hu-Mans may be unaware of their origins, those who discover the truth often form clandestine networks to further the Sumaya's hidden agenda.

Among themselves, awakened Hu-Mans refer to their kind as “the Chosen,” viewing their existence as a higher calling. These groups often clash with those who wish to break free from the Sumaya’s influence, creating internal tensions within their hidden ranks.

Playing a Hu-Man

As a Hu-Man, you are a paradox: a being of hidden origin and untapped potential, living in a world that may one day turn against you. Your journey might focus on uncovering the truth of your heritage, embracing or rejecting the Sumaya's will, or navigating the moral complexities of your existence.

Questions for Roleplaying:

  • Are you aware of your Hu-Man heritage, or do you believe yourself to be an ordinary Human?
  • How do you feel about your connection to the Sumaya? Do you embrace it, reject it, or remain indifferent?
  • Have you experienced moments where your latent power manifested? How did this shape your understanding of yourself?
  • How do you view regular Humans and other Sapiens? Do you see them as equals, tools, or obstacles?

Traits

Ability Score Increase: Your Charisma score increases by +2, and one other ability score of your choice increases by +1.

Age: Hu-Mans age and mature at the same rate as Humans, but their connection to the Sumaya extends their lifespan by several decades.

Alignment: Hu-Mans tend toward neutrality, reflecting their role as infiltrators and observers. However, individual Hu-Mans may adopt any alignment based on their experiences and choices.

Size: Hu-Mans are Medium, with builds that match those of regular Humans.

Speed: Your base walking speed is 30 feet.

Latent Connection: You have advantage on saving throws against being charmed or frightened, as your spirit is fortified by the Sumaya's influence.

Subtle Influence: You gain proficiency in one of the following skills: Deception, Persuasion, or Insight.

Veiled Presence: You are immune to magical effects that would reveal your true nature or detect your alignment.

Forbidden Resonance: Once per long rest, you can tap into your latent connection to the Sumaya, granting you the following benefits for 1 minute:

  • Add 1d6 to all ability checks and saving throws.
  • Gain resistance to psychic damage.

Subraces: Awakened and Dormant Hu-Mans

Awakened Hu-Mans

These Hu-Mans have discovered their true nature and begun to unlock their hidden potential.

  • Enhanced Awareness: You gain proficiency in Arcana.
  • Mystic Pulse: Once per long rest, you can release a wave of psychic energy in a 15-foot radius. Creatures of your choice must succeed on an Intelligence saving throw (DC 8 + your proficiency bonus + your Charisma modifier) or take 2d6 psychic damage.

Dormant Hu-Mans

These Hu-Mans remain unaware of their origins, living as regular mortals but with subtle advantages.

  • Unassuming Presence: You can cast Disguise Self once per long rest.
  • Innate Resilience: You gain resistance to one damage type of your choice (selected at character creation).

Names

Hu-Mans draw from the cultures they inhabit, adopting names that allow them to blend seamlessly into society. However, those who are aware of their Sumaya origins sometimes choose names inspired by whispered dreams or ancient echoes of their creators’ forbidden universe. These names often have a mystical, alien quality to them.

Masculine Names

  • Kael, Draven, Zoryn, Tahlis, Varek.

Feminine Names

  • Lysra, Nyxia, Aelira, Xyra, Vynessa.

Neutral Names

  • Zaryn, Aelrix, Cyraen, Tovyr, Erynn.

Naming Practices

  • A Dormant Hu-Man typically adopts names common to their current culture, unaware of their origins.
  • An Awakened Hu-Man might add or replace their original name with one they feel reflects their connection to the Sumaya, such as Zylaris or Nyxaleth.

Playing a Hu-Man

As a Hu-Man, you embody the enigmatic intersection between the known and the forbidden. Your journey could explore themes of self-discovery, inner conflict, and loyalty—do you side with the universe of Tzion, or do you answer the call of the Sumaya’s influence?

Example Hu-Man Characters

  • “Nyxira, the Whispered Shadow”: A Dormant Hu-Man who works as a skilled infiltrator for a mercenary guild, unaware of her latent connection to the Sumaya. Strange dreams have begun to haunt her, filling her with both curiosity and dread.
  • “Kaelion the Awakened”: An Awakened Hu-Man who has fully embraced his Sumaya heritage, using his Forbidden Resonance to protect a hidden network of fellow Hu-Mans from those who seek their destruction.
  • “Lysra the Masked Prophet”: A Hu-Man oracle who walks the line between loyalty to Tzion’s gods and secret devotion to the Sumaya. Her visions reveal a grand cosmic purpose, but its true meaning remains shrouded.

Roleplaying Hooks

  • Are you aware of your Hu-Man origins? If so, how do you feel about your Sumaya creators?
  • Do you feel like you belong in the universe of Tzion, or do you sense an unshakable disconnection?
  • Have you experienced moments where your latent power manifested? If so, how have you used this power?
  • What drives your actions? Are you trying to protect your kind, uncover the truth of the Sumaya, or carve out your own destiny?

DM's Toolbox: Hu-Mans in the World

The Hu-Mans’ hidden origins and widespread presence make them ideal for intrigue-focused campaigns. They can serve as allies, infiltrators, or even harbingers of a larger cosmic plot. Their connection to the forbidden universe of the Sumaya creates opportunities for mystery, conflict, and exploration.

As Allies

  • “The Infiltrator’s Edge”: A Hu-Man joins the party to help navigate a politically unstable region, using their skills in deception and persuasion to gather intel and broker alliances.
  • “The Awakened Guardian”: An Awakened Hu-Man becomes the party’s protector, using their latent powers to shield them from threats tied to the Sumaya’s enemies.

As Antagonists

  • “The Hidden Network”: A clandestine group of Awakened Hu-Mans seeks to undermine the Architect’s creations, disrupting societies and sowing chaos.
  • “The Silent Threat”: A Hu-Man antagonist operates undetected within a powerful faction, slowly manipulating events to advance the Sumaya’s mysterious agenda.

Campaign Hooks

  • “The Forbidden Secret”: The party stumbles upon a ruined temple dedicated to the Sumaya, discovering ancient texts that hint at the Hu-Mans’ true purpose.
  • “The Awakened Call”: A dormant Hu-Man NPC in the party’s village begins to experience strange visions, drawing them into a larger conflict between the Sumaya and the Astrals.
  • “The Infiltrators”: The party must expose a network of Hu-Mans embedded within a major kingdom, all while unraveling the motives behind their silent invasion.

Hu-Mans in Combat

Hu-Mans are versatile combatants, able to adapt to various roles thanks to their latent powers and skill-based advantages. Whether they fight as frontline warriors, support specialists, or deceptive rogues, Hu-Mans leverage their adaptability and subtlety to outwit their enemies.

Combat Roles

  • Adaptive Strategists: Hu-Mans use their Forbidden Resonance and skill proficiencies to gain the upper hand in dynamic combat scenarios.
  • Support Specialists: With abilities like Subtle Influence and Latent Connection, Hu-Mans excel at buffing allies and debuffing enemies.
  • Deceptive Rogues: Dormant Hu-Mans rely on their innate resilience and stealth to outmaneuver foes.

Strengths

  • Versatility: Their customizable traits allow them to fit a wide range of party compositions.
  • Resilience: Immunity to magical detection and resistance to psychic damage make them ideal for campaigns involving heavy mental or magical manipulation.
  • Unique Abilities: Forbidden Resonance provides powerful short-term buffs that can turn the tide of battle.

Weaknesses

  • Lack of Specialization: Their broad adaptability can make them less potent in highly focused roles.
  • Susceptibility to Discovery: While immune to magical detection, a Hu-Man who reveals their true nature may face hostility or suspicion from allies and enemies alike.

Optional Details

Faction Symbol

A spiral of intertwining silver and black threads, representing the Hu-Mans' duality and their connection to the forbidden universe.

Visual Inspiration

  • Dormant Hu-Mans often appear indistinguishable from ordinary Humans, though their subtle confidence and adaptability hint at something more.
  • Awakened Hu-Mans may bear faint, glowing markings on their skin or an aura of otherworldly energy, symbolizing their connection to the Sumaya.

Art Suggestions

  • A Hu-Man warrior in tattered, practical armor, wielding a blade crackling with forbidden energy.
  • An Awakened Hu-Man meditating amidst an alien landscape, their eyes glowing with the Sumaya's power.