Beastfolk
Bestia Sapien
Beastfolk were originally created merely to be used as soldiers to keep early Man safe, but now they number among the most populous of the Divided. Their originally ferocious and combative nature has dulled over the generations, and they could now be described as simply Humans, with animal aspects to them.
That's not to say that their strengths have faded with time, rather that they're simply able to enjoy a peaceful life without having to use it now. Many find life with their animal instincts and qualities to be extremely relaxing and fulfilling.
The most visually evident aspects to a Beastfolk tend to be: Ears, tail, eyes, teeth, claws, and occasionally fur.
Physical Attributes and Appearance
Beastfolk appear at first glance to just be Humans with a handful of animal aspects (typically ears, tail, claws, coloration, and fur, in ascending order of rarity) but they have much more than just that in common with their animal halves. Though this does vary depending on what animal their ancestors were created with, all tend to have comparable abilities in the same way the animal would. For example, a Horsefly would have extraordinary speed and stamina, while a Catfolk might have incredible acrobatic ability and impressive flexibility. A few universal constants of Beastfolk is their improved senses (though the type and degree of these varies by animal) increased durability, and their impulses to act on animal instincts. Aside from the typical 1 to three animal features, Beastfolk primarily resemble normal Humans.Magical Attributes and Skill
Beastfolk aren't terribly gifted in terms of magic. They are poor at most magics, save for Summoning, Earth, and Transformative magics. Their spiritual reserves are poor, their regeneration decent, their fine control severely lacking, and their resistance being nothing noteworthy.Senses and Perception
Beastfolk typically have extraordinary senses of hearing and smell one might expect. The exact nature and strength of these vary by animal type. Additionally, some have extraordinarily good vision, as well. Beastfolk must use a spell to perceive invisible magical forces.Genetics and Reproduction
Beastfolk produce roughly normally, though their pregnancies last about 2 months less than a Human's. The exact way that Beastfolk inherit traits from their parents is, to say the least, complicated. Typically, two Beastfolk will produce a child that resembles both parents, but has animal traits only from their mother. On some occasions, the father's animal type will present itself instead, and on rarer occasions, the child will be a hybrid of the two animal types, if they are of a variety that are able to produce hybrids in nature. Between Beastfolk and any other race, the child is typically the same species as their other parent race, but with one or two animal features, less than are typical in a pure Beastfolk. Children are born to Beastfolk in pairs or triplets more often than in most other Divided.Growth and Lifespan
Beastfolk mature quite a bit faster than Humans. Their puberty starts at around ages 7 to 9, and they mature physically by mid to late teens. Their mental maturity continues developing until their early 20s. This is assumed to be because of their original purpose as soldiers, since their physical strength was likely encouraged over their mental development. They tend to live for around 60 to 100 years, as magical alteration on a body does have some drawbacks.Naming Traditions
Beastfolk names are very similar to Humans', but with perhaps a slight preference for simpler and more impactful names.Culture and Customs
Most Beastfolk find their need to follow their animal instincts causes occasional annoyance for themselves or others, but do so anyway. Depending on what animal from which they're descended, their behaviors vary wildly.Dietary Needs
Many Beastfolk find that their animal instincts desire a certain diet, and while they are capable of eating elsewise, following their instincts is rarely unhealthy, and most other foods tend to taste bad to them.Etiquette Tips
While almost all Beastfolk will enjoy the sensation of being petted or scratched, doing so is considered very rude if you don't have their consent. It is considered by some to be inappropriate to do in public, but most are more understanding than that.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
