Vellum

Backstory

The Vellum claim — and their actions support — that they invented telepathy as a deliberate species-level upgrade some sixty million years ago. Their homeworld's biosphere responds to coordinated thought; cities are grown by collective intention. They serve as diplomats, archivists, and occasionally as battlefield silencers when a deal needs to be enforced.

Physiology

Mantis-form humanoids with elongated psychic resonance organs. Capable of silencing nearby minds at proximity.

Visual template

Tall (2.2-2.5m) elegant mantis-bodied humanoids with smooth segmented carapace in muted celadon green washed with violet at the joints. Four arms: the upper two are long and slender for fine work, the lower two are sturdier for combat or carrying. Elongated triangular heads with two large multifaceted compound eyes (deep violet or amber) and TWO long curving psychic resonance organs rising from the top of the skull like elegant antlers. No visible mouth — they communicate telepathically. Bodies are draped in flowing ceremonial robes of fine pale linen and indigo silk with woven star-patterns at the hems. They wear no armor — robes ARE armor through psychic resonance. Hands have three long thin chitinous fingers. Weapons are rare; when they do carry, a single ceremonial staff with a resonance crystal at the tip. Posture is composed and tall, the four arms folded in a formal pose at rest. Older Vellum show carapace etching — psychic glyphs engraved by long meditation.

Color palette

• #588078
• #a0b8a8
• #3a2d3a
• #f8f4e0
• #6a4868
• #283030
• #c8a880

Signature abilities

• Frontline Mend
• Shock
• Splash
• Null-Field