Shifters

Shifters are nimble beast folk, at home with their primal nature. Many believe that they are the result of mingling humanoid and gnoll, tabaxi or leonin heritage. Whatever their origins, shifters have evolved into a unique race. They are humanoids with a bestial aspect; while they can’t fully change shape, they can temporarily enhance their animalistic features — a state they call shifting.
Early in childhood, a shifter forms a bond with a beast within, a totemic force that shapes their body and mind. Some shifters believe that these spirits are independent entities, and they may speak of Bear or Wolf as ancestors or guides. Most just see the beast within as a formidable expression of their inner nature, something that emerges as the shifter’s personality takes shape. The beast within is a pool of powerful instincts, and its influence is revealed by a shifter’s personality: a feline shifter may be cool and distant, driven by predatory instincts, while a shifter with a lupine spirit might be drawn to find and protect a pack. When a shifter fully embraces this beast within they physically transform for a short time.
While the beast within certainly has a physical impact on a shifter, it has a spiritual and psychological effect, as well. With any shifter, identifying the beast within is a crucial part of understanding the character.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Shifters are similar to humans in height and build but are typically more lithe and flexible. Their facial features have a bestial cast, often with large eyes, flat noses, and pointed ears; most shifters also have prominent canine teeth. They grow fur-like hair on nearly every part of their bodies.
The traits of the beast within affect a shifter’s appearance as well. A swiftstride shifter may have catlike eyes and delicate build, while a beasthide shifter might be a massive brute built like a bear. While a shifter’s appearance might remind an onlooker of an animal, they remain clearly identifiable as shifters even when at their most feral.

Genetics and Reproduction

Shifters have a 6 month gestation period and can typically give birth to litters of 1-3 babies

Growth Rate & Stages

Shifters are quick to mature both physically and emotionally, reaching young adulthood at age 10. They rarely live to be more than 70 years old.

Civilization and Culture

Common Myths and Legends

It is believed by many that Shifters are born of the mingling of human bloodlines with that of beastial races such as gnolls, tabaxi or leonin. Others believe that their appearance is due to an affliction or curse

Lifespan

65 years

Average Height

5'-6'5"

Average Weight

11st- 14st

Related Ethnicities

• Pelonian