Subtypes

The Natural Shiji-Long are a subspecies deeply connected to the natural world, living in harmony with the plants and landscapes that surround them. They can be found throughout nearly all of Shengdao's green regions, from dense forests and sprawling grasslands to humid jungles and overgrown swamps. Because of this wide distribution, Natural Shiji-Long can differ greatly from one another, often reflecting the environment they call home. What truly sets them apart from other Shiji-Long is their unique symbiosis with plant life. Each Natural Shiji-Long is connected to a specific plant that grows directly upon their body as a living part of them. Most carry only one type of plant throughout their lives, although rare exceptions with more than one are known to exist. These plants are not merely decoration, but an inseparable part of the Shiji and their connection to nature. Their magic is similarly centered around plant life. Natural Shiji-Long can encourage vegetation to grow and flourish, turning barren patches of earth into thriving greenery. More powerful individuals can materialize plant matter through magic alone. The plants growing from their own bodies can also be used offensively, allowing them to form or extend natural growths as weapons when threatened.

Despite their close relationship with nature, not every Natural Shiji-Long lives far away from civilization. Some choose to remain in the wilderness, living closely alongside the ecosystems they inhabit. Others have adapted to Shengdao's cities and enjoy a more modern way of life. Their connection to nature remains an important part of them regardless of where they choose to live.

Their clothing and jewelry often reflect this connection as well. Natural materials and resources are commonly incorporated into what they wear, creating garments and ornaments that remain closely tied to the world around them. Plants and other natural elements may become part of their appearance rather than something separate from it.

Natural Shiji-Long are said to live exceptionally long lives, and old stories tell of a remarkable transformation awaiting those who reach a great enough age. Over time, the plant that has accompanied a Natural throughout their life may slowly begin to overtake their body. Eventually, the Shiji itself becomes the foundation for new life, its body turning into a thriving habitat from which plants and other organisms can grow. In this way, death is not necessarily seen as an end, but as the beginning of a new ecosystem and another contribution to the natural world they spent their life protecting.

Unlike some other subspecies, the Natural Shiji-Long are not united beneath a single clan. Numerous clans can be found throughout Shengdao, shaped by the different environments in which they live and the traditions they have developed there.

One of the largest is led by Yixin, the last surviving Natural Elder. Yixin has made his home within the swamps, far removed from the crowded cities he has long since grown tired of. His withdrawn nature and distaste for modern city life have left him with a rather grumpy disposition, and he has little interest in pretending otherwise.

Yet beneath that rough exterior lies an unwavering devotion to his clan. Yixin regards its members as his children, and no matter how irritable or reclusive he may appear, he will defend them against anything that threatens them. For those under his protection, there is little doubt that the old Elder's bond with his children runs far deeper than his grumbling might suggest.