Spore-Bonded Verdant Hollowkin
Basic Information
Anatomy
- Appears as a spherical, perfectly coiled creature about 1.3m in diameter.
- One half consists of leaflike ridges and golden glowing spore nodules (Vael’kaari), the other half of spiked onyx shell covered in fungal stalks (Kaari’dollan).
- Seamlessly integrated body posture gives the illusion of a single organism.
- Bioluminescence increases in mist or moonlight, giving the creature an almost divine appearance.
Biological Traits
- Bioluminescent integration of fungal spores and leaf-flesh
- Temperature-regulating layering to prevent death during deep sleep
- Temporary fusion at the cellular level at bonding interface
Genetics and Reproduction
Reproduction only occurs in this form. Each species releases its spores internally while connected. Fertilization happens via cross-exchange:
- Kaari’dollan spores enter Vael’kaari ovule chamber.
- Vael’kaari spores germinate in Kaari’dollan’s vented ridges.
Growth Rate & Stages
While not a true species, the bonding follows a pattern
- Sync-seeking migration
- Physical attachment and curl
- Nutrient exchange and spore germination
- Post-bond nutrient depletion
- Separation and nesting
Ecology and Habitats
Most common at forest-plains borders, particularly near leyline-rich bodies of water. The high humidity and mana-thick soil promote spore viability.
Dietary Needs and Habits
No active foraging occurs in this state. Nutrient transfer is entirely internal between the two creatures. The outer shell prevents scavengers from interrupting the cycle.
Biological Cycle
The creature is only observable during the overlap of Talorian and Alagorian, when one species is entering dormancy and the other is awakening.
Behaviour
- Appears completely dormant.
- Emits low, harmonic vibrations detectable only through magical means.
- Displays no signs of aggression or movement, contributing to its misidentification.
Additional Information
Social Structure
Singular. These creatures never bond in groups. No multi-unit formations have ever been observed.
Domestication
Not possible. Breaking the bond before its natural conclusion risks killing both creatures.
Uses, Products & Exploitation
- Regarded as a sacred omen by some druidic cultures
- Bioluminescent patterns copied for protective talismans
- Observers once thought its glow marked spore-blessed land or buried relics
Facial characteristics
Faces are hidden during bonding. Only the glow of fungal stalks and leaf-plates are visible.
Geographic Origin and Distribution
Only found in liminal biomes of Umbrenor, specifically along the transitional edges where forest meets grassy plain near interconnected lakes. These regions are thick with magical mists and often exhibit twilight all day due to the cycle collision.
Average Intelligence
None in the traditional sense. Reflexes and memory remain dormant. However, magical sensory fields remain active.
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
- Possesses both sensory systems of its components, making it hyper-aware of leyline fluctuations, temperature shifts, magical interference, and even arcane whispers.
- In this bonded state, it enters a deep sensory dormancy while retaining magical awareness of the surrounding environment.
Symbiotic and Parasitic organisms
- Vael’kaari (forest-dwelling leaflike host)
- Kaari’dollan (plains-dwelling armored parasite)
Origin/Ancestry
Though not its own species, the “Verdant Hollowkin” is the rare, merged state of the Vael’kaari and Kaari’dollan.
Lifespan
This form lasts only days at a time, but each species may enter it multiple times across their lifetime, depending on fertility cycles.
Average Height
Diameter: 1.3m
Average Weight
~23kg combined
Average Physique
Perfectly spherical defensive posture; almost no exposed vulnerabilities.
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
- One side: Vibrant green leaves with gold spore sacs
- Other side: Matte-black armor with luminous yellow-orange fungi.
- Integrated spore trails glow faintly across seamlines
Discovered by
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