ECOLOGY

Environment warm and temperate forests
Organization solitary
Treasure none

Vehement defenders of unusual natural locations, kapres have a complicated relationship with the “civilized” races.

Formed of dense tree matter, they are as much part of the forest as their botanical brethren. Their intimidating physical size, territorial nature, and unusual approach to friendship often bring them into conflict with tribesmen and aggressive explorers. Furthermore, misleading myths paint them as vicious wife-stealers, violent demons, and even bringers of riches to those who can trap them. In truth, these arboreal giants are only dangerous to those who threaten the environs under their protection.

With slender limbs and thick, gnarled torsos made of twisted trunks and boughs, kapres are awkwardly humanoid in appearance, but have such rich personalities that those lucky enough call them “friend” see them as more people than plants. Festooned with hanging vines or seasonal blossoms, kapres blend in perfectly with the surrounding forest. Were it not for the soft glow of their eyes, they could be mistaken for treants.

Exceedingly secretive and wary, kapres prefer to avoid conflict where possible, using their imposing size and confounding auras to intimidate would-be invaders.

Leaning out of huge trees, they blow smoke onto lost explorers, persuading them to flee from the locations the kapre protects. Even in peaceful discussions, they rarely drop their auras, aware that the most honeyed tongue can hide the cruelest intent. If things turn sour, they deal out fast and serious damage with their great wooden fists, and if their domain is breached, they fight to the death to turn invaders away. Though kapres are fearsome when their ire is raised, they are careful (and reasonable) enough to allow retreating aggressors to escape.