rowan

from the helpfile

Race: Rowan
-----------

Thin and blue skinned, Rowans are said to look otherworldly and their mystical nature and incredible intelligence seems to support this. They have natural control of the elements of magic and with their dexterous fingers can sew, gem craft, and tan easily, allowing them to master any handcraft. Artistic by nature, they are avid readers and theatre goers. They often devote their lives to the study of magic, alchemy, or anything else which intrigues the mind. Despite their short lifetimes, Rowans often become "bored" after easily learning everything in a few years that takes others lifetimes. Because of their high intellect they remain aloof and distant. Many are somewhat disdainful of other races, yet some look past racial lines to become great healers and teachers. Rowans have surprising patience and understanding.

from Frederic's "Bestiary"

Rowan

The origins of the rowan race are rooted in the deepest mystery. Unlike most of the other races, the rowans have no less evolved counterpart in nature. Indeed no other natural creature comes even close to matching their odd, blue coloration. Perhaps it is this mystical origin that gives rise to the natural magical capacity that all rowans share.

While it is pointless to debate their origins, although many have, what is most important about rowans is that they are very much in touch with the forces of magic in the world. This is not to say that all rowans are mages. In fact, many rowans cannot cast the most simple spell; however, those who do become mages excel in that field. This is not surprising, actually, as they tend to excel in any field that they put their mind to. They have fantastic minds, and when they choose to bend them to a field they rapidly learn everything there is to know about that field.

Unfortunately, they are physically quite frail. This is why so few rowans enter into fields which require combat or long travel. While they can quickly learn the skills of combat, they quite often do not survive the rough training. Similarly, they have problems keeping up with traveling groups, as they quickly tire.

Rowan society is very complex and requires a book of its own right. One of the most interesting aspects about it is its governmental system. It is based around a parliamentary discussion system where any decision made by the government may be debated by any member of the society before it is enacted. The debating system is very complex and even I do not understand it entirely. Should you find yourself in a position where you need to debate something in the Rowan Senate, you will undoubtedly find it the most prudent action to convince a Rowan Senator that your point of view is correct and have them debate the subject for you.

As I have mentioned before, the coloration of rowans is completely distinct. While they resemble tall, thin humans, their skin is a light blue in color and their hair ranges from white to dark blue. Their eyes are very notable, as they are slightly larger than human eyes and they give a rowan a very piercing stare. They range from a light grey to a deep violet in color.