Zo

Zo, born "Keti," is a nomadic tortle druid from the Wordlu clan, known for their profound connection to the natural world and evidence-based mysticism. In her late 40s, Zo is nearing the end of her life, a time when tortles traditionally prepare for their final passage: laying eggs and returning to the "great sea of the afterlife." Her shell is embedded with seed pearls arranged as constellations, a reflection of her expertise in celestial navigation, and her staff projects shimmering star maps when held to the light. Tortles believe the night sky’s milky way-like band represents the souls of their ancestors, and Zo's deep spiritual bond with the stars has guided her through her years of wandering. Yet, something has disrupted her innate compass; while she can navigate perfectly, she no longer knows where her destination lies, leaving her unmoored and uncertain.

Zo's life has been shaped by the traditions and rivalries of tortle culture. The Wordlu clan is a balanced, earth-bound group attuned to natural patterns, in contrast to their rivals, the Sukuut, a mystical and faith-driven sect of lorekeepers. Zo reveres her clan's values but has also encountered other groups, such as the warlike TiMu and the inventive Ak. Her history is steeped in connection: she learned the ways of navigation and pathfinding with her sister Rin, shared dreams of the future with her mate Bort, and formed bonds with the Sontira, Polynesian-esque marshland elves who once aided her. Now, separated from her people and unable to find the location of this year's great mating celebration (a profound event of tortle life) Zo faces her greatest challenge. Her journey is no longer just about reaching her final destination but about rediscovering her place in the world and unraveling the forces disrupting her ancient path.

Zo's journey to her final mating celebration took a harrowing turn when her sister Rin and mate Bort were abducted by a ship of slavers during their travels. Despite her best efforts to rescue them, Zo was overwhelmed and nearly captured herself. In her darkest moment, she was saved by a mysterious Deep Ancient One, an enigmatic being of the abyssal depths. Zo was left adrift with no sign of her loved ones, and she continues her journey with a dual mission: to find Rin and Bort and uncover the truth of the Deep Ancient One’s intentions, all while seeking the path to the event that will mark her life’s final chapter.

She is also a ReelTok influencer.