Kandra

Lore & Background

The Kandra now exist in a state of flux, struggling to define what it means to be an individual. They are no longer bound by the absolute control of the Returned, yet they still grapple with the instincts and memories of the 'One.' Their journey is one of self-discovery, moving from being mere reflections of others to becoming their own distinct entities in a world that often fears or misunderstands them.

In Their Own Story

The rain slicked the cobblestones of Kevon's capital as the figure stood before the mirror. To any observer, he was a nobleman with a scarred cheek and a weary gaze. But beneath the skin, something shifted. The memory of a bird took flight in his mind, not his own, but shared by thousands. He touched his face, feeling the texture of human skin that wasn't truly his. 'Who am I?' he whispered, the question echoing through a sudden silence where a chorus of voices used to sing. For the first time, the answer was his alone.

Reader's Guide

The Kandra do not possess a traditional hierarchy in the way humans understand it, as their former structure was entirely dictated by the hive mind known as 'the One.' When this collective consciousness fractured, leadership became fluid and situational rather than absolute. Some groups of Kandra now band together based on shared experiences or the specific masters they once served, creating loose alliances rather than a unified army. Goals vary wildly among individuals since the split. Many seek to understand their own identities separate from the memories of others, while some strive to protect their kin from those who would exploit their shapeshifting abilities for espionage. Others still struggle with the loss of the hive mind, feeling isolated and longing for the comfort of total unity. Internal conflict is the defining feature of Kandra society today. Debates rage between those who wish to return to a modified form of collective existence and those who champion radical individuality. Additionally, there is tension regarding their relationship with humanity; some view humans as former oppressors, while others see them as potential friends or even new masters to serve in a voluntary capacity.

Did You Know?

• Kandra can only mimic the appearance of creatures they have consumed the essence of, requiring them to eat the remains of their target to assume that form perfectly.
• Before gaining individuality, all Kandra shared a single consciousness, meaning every member experienced the memories and sensations of every other member simultaneously.
• They are capable of mimicking not just appearance but also voice, mannerisms, and even the specific way a person holds their hands or walks.
• The Kandra were originally created to serve the Returned, but their evolution into individuals was largely catalyzed by the BioChandler Vasher.