Shuren

The Shuren are an ancient race of magical treefolk known for their long lifespans, magical aptitude and their initial inability to communicate with other races. Their encounter with the diplomat St. Zara from Anzania brought about a breakthrough in communication, leading to a golden age of exploration and transformation within their society. However, as the world entered the modern era, the Shuren faced challenges due to industrialization, unfair trade practices, and new political ideologies.

## Physiology

The Shuren originated from mystical forces within ancient forests, taking the form of sentient tree-like creatures with bark-like bodies and vibrant foliage patterns. Their long lifespans and connection to nature made them wise and knowledgeable about ecosystems. They reproduce through pollination during the annual "Blossoming Moon" ceremony.

They are highly sensitive to natural elements, yet are bound by their unique limitations of lacking the usual senses of sight and sound. Thus, their inability to converse with other races hindered their interaction with the outside realm. Their existence was governed by the whispers of the wind and the murmurs of the forest, their silent language known only to themselves.

## St. Zara's Miracle

> For the Shuren, she gave them feet, so they can dance and explore the world...
>
>

In spite of this, the arrival of diplomat St. Zara from Anzania in AW11835 changed their history. Through rhythmic tapping, her musical background enabled basic communication with the Shuren. This breakthrough allowed her to share stories and expand their understanding of the outside world. The Shuren, filled with wonder and curiosity, responded eagerly, swaying to the rhythm and sharing their profound wisdom and ancient knowledge with the diplomat.

## Golden Age of Exploration

Word of this remarkable breakthrough between the Shuren and St. Zara spread like wildfire, captivating the imaginations of scholars, traders, and explorers, especially the Muhammir, previously sealed off by The Bramble Bastion. Many outsiders trained to be translators, a highly lucrative and coveted career. The Shuren, no longer confined to their isolated existence, eagerly engaged in trade and shared their arcane expertise. The forest became a vibrant marketplace of rare herbs, enchanted artifacts, and wisdom beyond compare.

The newfound communication opened a golden age of mercantilism and exploration. The newer generation of Shuren became skilled sailors, due to their buoyant bodies becoming natural life vests for their translators. This facilitated voyages of discovery, trade and cultural exchange.

## Legacy and Challenges

Nevertheless, the Shuren are now facing new challenges as the world enters the modern era. Factories brought environmental degradation, threatening their forests and ecosystems. Shady practices, including privateering and the trade of the recreational drug Lumina, depleted their resources and disrupted their way of life.

Despite efforts in diplomacy, conservation, and anti-drug campaigns, their noble yet peaceful ways may soon prove inadequate. Will they succumb to the consequences of unchecked industrialization and capitalism, or can they preserve their natural and cultural heritage in the face of shifting ideologies?

## Trivia

As with all realms, The Shuren are inspired and designed by designating one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, the 7 deadly sins, Along with a governing color, element, skill set and stats.

* Real World Wonder: The Great Wall
* Real world Culture Reference: Chinese
* Sin: Sloth
* Color: Green
* Element: Wood
* Skill Set: Discovery
* Stat: Resilience

## Shuren Characters

Qingqing

Qingqing