Subtypes

This subtype is not a traditional subtype which can be assigned to Shiji-Long, but instead exists to represent traits that cannot be obtained through normal means or which cannot be rolled randomly in the celestial pond. Examples include traits such as cracked, hollowed, or third-eye. These traits have dependencies on other traits or unique lore restrictions which do not allow them to be obtained through traditional means. 

Normal Shiji-Long can still have the traits listed in this category, but users should be aware that these are special traits. Each trait will define it's own unique requirements, so be sure to check the trait's details before you plan to use it! 

Generally frowned upon by Shiji society, Hybrid Shiji-Long are born from parents belonging to different subspecies, or from the pairing of a Common Shiji and a subspecies Shiji. While they can inherit characteristics from both sides of their heritage, these traits are usually less pronounced than those found in a pure subspecies. There is one notable exception to this rule: Void, Celestial, and Galactic Shiji-Long can breed interchangeably. Their offspring is not infertile. Pairings between any of these three subspecies are treated as regular subspecies pairings rather than hybridization. The same applies to their magic. Hybrids are capable of inheriting magic associated with their parents, but it is usually weaker and may not manifest to the same extent as it would in a pure subspecies Shiji. Their appearance can vary greatly depending on their ancestry, with some hybrids showing an obvious mixture of both parents while others may lean much more strongly toward one side. Due to the genetic differences that have developed between the various Shiji-Long subspecies, hybrids are naturally born infertile. Under normal circumstances, they cannot produce offspring of their own. There are, however, stories of a certain potion capable of overcoming this limitation and temporarily allowing a Hybrid Shiji to reproduce.

Their place within Shiji society is complicated. Relationships between different subspecies are not unheard of, but the hybrids born from them are still generally viewed with disapproval. How strongly this affects an individual can differ depending on where they live and the community they belong to.

This divide extends even to the Elders. Elder Qing is the only known Elder willing to grant their blessing to Hybrid Shiji-Long. Because of this, Qing holds a particularly important place among hybrids seeking an Elder's blessing, as the other Elders refuse to grant them one.

This species of Shiji-Long lives high in the mountains, far above most other settlements, where the air grows thin and the winds are strong. Compared to their cousins, Air Shiji are usually smaller and leaner, with light bodies made for navigating the skies. They are mostly feathered and furred, with their coats often growing into long, flowing, wing-like shapes that help them keep their balance while flying through heavy winds. Some Air Shiji can also possess multiple pairs of wings, making their silhouettes especially varied. Air Shiji can appear in many different colours, but their coats almost always resemble the sky in some way. Some carry the soft colours of dawn, others the clear shades of a bright day or the deep tones of the night sky. Rarer patterns may resemble stars, distant galaxies, or other celestial sights.

Their magic is closely tied to the air around them. Many possess passive state magic that allows their bodies to partially or fully turn into air, smoke, or clouds. Others wield active or passive elemental magic connected to wind, air, or smoke. Old stories even claim that the storms raging across Shengdao are born whenever these wind dragons roam the skies.

Most Air Shiji rarely travel below the cloud line. Their cities are built high above the clouds, hidden among the tallest mountains and peaks. Because of this isolation, they rely heavily on what can be found at these heights, harvesting the plants that manage to grow there and hunting the creatures that inhabit the highest mountain regions.

Visitors from the lands below are rare, and Air Shiji are not known for inviting outsiders into their homes. It has happened before, but being welcomed into one of their cities is considered an unusual privilege.

Unlike some other clans, the Air Shiji are not currently guided by their Elder. Their Elder's whereabouts are currently unknown, and in their absence, the clan is led by a council. The council oversees their cities and communities and has taken on the responsibilities that might otherwise have fallen to their Elder.

Despite their Elder's absence, their devotion to the Elders remains particularly visible in their architecture. Air Shiji are known for creating some of the greatest temples dedicated to them, built high among the mountains and reaching into the skies above the clouds.

Seraphim Air Shiji-Long are highly specialized for life in the sky, even compared to other Air Shiji. Their bodies are built almost entirely around flight, allowing them to move through the high mountain winds with exceptional ease and control. Their most recognizable feature is their Seraphim wings. These Shiji always possess wing-like structures around the head and hips, and some may additionally have a pair of regular wings growing from their back. Their bodies are mostly covered in feathers and fur, much like other Air Shiji, though their features tend to be especially adapted for an aerial lifestyle. Unlike the long, flowing tails common among many Shiji-Long, Seraphim Air Shiji usually possess shorter, more bird-like tails. Together with their numerous wings and light build, this gives them a particularly avian appearance.

Seraphim Air Shiji are mostly active during the day. Singing plays an important role in their everyday lives and culture, and they are famous for their clear, almost heavenly voices. Songs accompany them throughout virtually every stage of life, with families keeping songbooks containing songs for different moments, traditions, and milestones. From ordinary days to important events, there is to a song for almost everything.

They usually live together in close family groups rather than on their own. These family bonds form an important part of their daily lives, with homes often shared across the family and songs and traditions being passed down through generations.

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.

The Aquatic Shiji-Long are captivating creatures that dwell beneath the ocean's depths. With their unique adaptations, they embody the essence of water dragons and have evolved to become perfectly suited to their underwater habitat. These remarkable beings possess a distinctive appearance, adorned with clothing and accessories that reflect their cultural identity. Their physical features distinguish them from their terrestrial counterparts. They boast elegant fins that extend from their limbs, aiding in maneuvering through the water with grace and agility. The presence of gills allows them to extract oxygen from the surrounding aquatic environment, enabling them to breathe effortlessly underwater. Additionally, they possess webbing between their toes, facilitating swift swimming and precise control over their movements. Their eyes possess a remarkable adaptation, thanks to a protective nictating skin that allows them to see perfectly underwater. This unique feature enhances their visual perception, enabling them to navigate the depths with unparalleled clarity and precision.

 

The aquatic Shiji-Long have developed their own distinct style of clothing and accessories, which reflect their aquatic heritage and tribal affiliations. Their garments are crafted from a combination of specialized materials that are both lightweight and water-resistant, allowing for unrestricted movement while maintaining comfort in the underwater environment. These garments often incorporate intricate designs inspired by the mesmerizing hues and patterns found in the depths of the ocean.

In addition to their clothing, the aquatics adorn themselves with accessories that hold deep cultural significance. Elaborate jewelry made from rare seashells, shimmering pearls, and vibrant corals are worn to signify status, achievements, and personal stories. These embellishments are meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans within the clan, ensuring that each piece is a unique representation of the individual's journey and connection to their aquatic realm.

As these Shiji-Long navigate their underwater domain, their striking appearance, distinctive clothing, and intricately designed accessories serve as a testament to their rich cultural heritage. Their adaptation to the aquatic environment, coupled with their harmonious way of life, showcases the awe-inspiring beauty and resilience of these extraordinary beings.

It is said that every tsunami and flooding is happening because of the magic of these water dragons.

The aquatics are led by the esteemed elder dragon Shuiliu who radiates an aura of grace and wisdom. Shuiliu, known for his elegance and benevolence, serves as the guiding light of the clan, offering his wisdom and guidance to all members of his clan, the Pingheng clan.

Celestial Shiji-Long - 仙人龙 Xianren-Long

Celestial or Etheral Shiji-Long were created from the second elder that existed. They were more powerful, their very being
made of magic, their scales and fur shimmering in every colour of the skies and stars.

The elder that created this subspecies died after birthing these beautiful dragons, her life force living inside them,
making them glow naturally. Their body is longer in feral and anthro form, long, fin like membrans seaming body, limbs
and tail. Celestial Shijis can appear translucent when flying in the sky due to their colours and iridescent scales. Like
that they had not been rediscovered until now. There were legends and tails about shimmering snakes in the sky, but
no Shiji-long had ever seen one with their own eyes. Celestial Shijis possess a very special magical gift. Their magic is pure,
elementless, but is able to create matter, even living beings.

It is said that celestial shiji who die are turned into stars.

These Shijis mostly stay in their feral form. While they can change easily, their long, pearlescent 'fins' are easier handled
as ferals. They live closed off on a floating island in the sky above Shengdao, having built big temples to honour their
goddess, which are sacred to them and no one else but them is allowed to enter them. Since their goddess is not with them
anymore, these shijis follow the oldest matriarch, Xirei.

Xirei had only decided to reveal herself to the other elders, when she saw black and purple lightning course through the sky.