The Dovaari are physically corrupted Aethereans. Those who have surrendered themselves to the immense power found within Dovaa souls and tears. By repeatedly drawing upon this potent magic, they significantly amplify their own abilities. However, such power comes at a cost: their bodies slowly transform, taking on draconic traits such as scales, horns, and sometimes even wings. The more pronounced these features become, the more they are shunned by society. Despite being rare, the sight of a heavily transformed Dovaari often invokes fear, awe, or both.

Though ostracized by most, the Dovaari share a deep, almost spiritual bond with the natural world and with the Dovaa themselves. Ironically, it is the Dovaa who fear them most. Known as formidable mages with a natural resistance to aether poisoning, the Dovaari are often viewed as dangerously powerful guardians by some, abominations by others.

Most Dovaari reside in hidden villages deep within the untamed wilds and forests of Aetherealm far from the cities, tucked away where ordinary Aethereans would never dare tread. Over time, they’ve faded into myth, their existence whispered in tales and legends. Some Aethereans view them as noble protectors; unsung heroes who keep rogue Dovaa in check and help maintain balance in the realm. Others, particularly those from religious sects, see them as desecrators: murderers who harvest Dovaa magic for selfish gain and bring corruption wherever they go. These sects have long called for their extermination.

Still, those who understand the delicate workings of Aetherealm often recognize the Dovaari’s silent contributions. It’s said that the reason the roads and wild paths of the realm remain so safe is thanks to their hidden efforts. In many circles, they are known as the ultimate mages.

According to legend, the Dovaari descend from the very first Aethereans to walk Aetherealm. Those who helped shape the lands and carve the original paths. Some claim they bear draconic features because they interbred with the Dovaa, a belief largely pushed by religious sects despite a lack of evidence. In truth, ancient historical texts tell a different story: the Dovaari were once defenders of the people who stole magic from the Dovaa to protect the earliest settlements. In doing so, they gradually became more like the Dovaa they fought; both feared and revered, cursed and legendary.

When a Dovaari has mastered their magic and absorbed a sufficient number of Dovaa souls, they become eligible to undergo the Rite of Dovaakyn—a sacred ritual that grants them access to their true Dovaakyn form. In this state, the Dovaari no longer merely channel the essence of the Dovaa—they become Dovaa in full, what they refer to as Dovaakyn, meaning “akin to Dovaa.”

Upon completing the rite with the leader of their tribe, they are awarded a ceremonial token: a medallion forged from pure Aetherium and embossed with the image of a soaring Dovaa. This token, infused with the essence of Dovaa magic, is believed to ease the transformation between mortal and draconic form.

To initiate the transformation, the Dovaari must crush a soul infused with their primary magical element, channeling their will and intent to transform through it. As the aether swells within and around them, their body is overtaken by magic, reshaping them into their awakened Dovaakyn Form and unlocking a reservoir of power previously beyond reach. Their magic is most potent in this form and they can stay in either form indefinitely.