entients

Entients are a fictional species often depicted in speculative fiction. They are typically characterized as ancient, slow-moving, tree-like beings possessing immense wisdom and a deep connection to nature. The name "entient" itself suggests a merging of "ent," a tree-like creature from J.R.R. Tolkien's works, and "sentient," indicating self-awareness.

While their exact origins and biology vary greatly depending on the fictional universe, entients are commonly portrayed as having bark-like skin, leafy appendages, and a slow, deliberate manner of speech and action. Their lifespans are often measured in millennia, allowing them to accumulate vast historical knowledge and a profound understanding of ecological cycles. This longevity also contributes to their patient and contemplative nature.

Entients are rarely depicted as aggressive. Instead, they tend to act as guardians of forests and natural landscapes, intervening only when their homes are threatened. Their motivations are often altruistic, focused on the preservation of life and the balance of the natural world. Despite their power, they are often reluctant to engage in conflict, preferring to observe and offer counsel. Their role in stories frequently serves to highlight themes of environmentalism, the passage of time, and the enduring strength of nature.