Yakukaimono

Yakukaimono (Kanji:  厄介者; English: Parasite) are a unique race of parasitic beings who bond with nature itself.

Overview
The Yakukaimono are parasites to put it bluntly. Unknown where they came from, they seems to have an unfair life as they were not blessed with a naturally long lifespan. Rather, to survive they must bond with something else. As such, they are capable of bonding with the elements.

These individuals at birth take the appearance of leeches. As such, their options are limited due to their inherent lack of mobility. Despite this, they are capable of choosing something within their environment and bonding with it, whether it be the air, plants, streams, or even fire.

Upon bonding, they are granted a new shape and a new lifespan. Each Yakukaimono is different, but their powers are entirely dependent on that element. Among all races, they’re naturally capable of generating and manipulating their element of choice, as well as become it. For instance, a fire Yakukaimono may sport flaming red hair and have a more wild temperament, while a water Yakukaimono may have long flowing hair and be as calm or rough as the waters they were born from.