Xylem is a Branched scientist sent to Divine Principality space to conduct research. During its time there, it becomes the first Branched person to join Wakeful.
Appearance[edit | edit source]
“
Its skin is like all kinds of wood: knotted and bark and varnished and dusty, dead and alive and filled with smaller life.”
Xylem's body takes the form of any kind of wood, from a forest to a small pile of sawdust. It frequently shifts between different forms.
History and Involvement[edit | edit source]
Xylem comes to Principality space to research light. While lost in the Skarnoc Debris Fields, it meets Resolute Welkin, a Delegate of Wakeful, and immediately recognizes something kindred in her. Xylem and Resolute quickly form a close relationship. Worried about distracting Xylem from its mission, Resolute tells it that she plans to reintegrate into Wakeful, but Xylem does not want to be parted from Resolute. It asks if it can join Wakeful to be with her, and Wakeful agrees.[1]