Human
Ahh, yes. Humanity. No fantasy world would be complete without a species that the reader/viewer can physically relate to. If not humans, then humanoids--especially anthropomorphized animals. I'm not complaining, of course, because I also usually need a more human-shaped main character to relate to--even if it makes no sense whatsoever for creatures in a world of magic (where physical appearances don't really change much) to develop in a similar fashion.
Ahem... back into character.
The parent of nearly all sapient species, and one of the most ancient still living, humans are quite remarkable in their own boring way. Boasting of few extremely impressive traits, these populous creatures are actually extremely effective at survival, development, art and science (you know... when they're focused). As a species, they all kind of even each other out to create a very well-rounded society that thrives when there is an external conflict, but develops internal conflicts whenever they're left on their own for too long. They do occasionally spit out brilliant minds and indomitable warriors, but not as often as some other sapient species.
Basic Information
Anatomy
You know what humans look like. C'mon, now.
Genetics and Reproduction
Yeah, I know what you're here for... so I'll give you all the dirty details ;)
In order to reproduce, there requires a male (sperm) and a female (egg). However, while the male is generally able to release his sperm practically any time of any day (assuming arousal is possible), the female's egg is not always receptive or capable of developing into a fetus. Therefore, this union must be timed to suit her monthly cycle, while early on being ideal and later in the cycle becoming more difficult (though not always impossible). The end of this "cycle", called menstruation or her "period", generally occurs about once per month and can last anywhere from a couple days to a couple of weeks depending on many different factors.
During menstruation, the inner lining of the uterus (or "womb"), which is normally required to facilitate a healthy fertilization/gestation, is expelled. The lining itself is expelled as menstrual blood and tissues pour down through a small hole in the cervix (connected to the lower end of the uterus), before passing through the vagina to be expelled from the body entirely.
If timed properly and done under the right conditions, the egg will be fertilized and enter one of the fallopian tubes, located on either side of the uterus. Within twenty-four hours, the egg will start to multiply--and continue to do so over the course of the next few days as it passes through the fallopian tube and, eventually, into the uterus (the main area where the gestation will continue until the time of birth. However, there is a slight risk of the egg not passing all the way through the fallopian tube, and instead implanting itself inside. This event is known as an "ectopic pregnancy" and while pretty rare, it is common enough to be something to look out for. If caught in time, a simple surgery (or "medical abortion") is required to save the life of the mother... unfortunately, the egg is usually no longer viable after this process.
Over the next nine months, the cluster of cells will develop into a fetus, and then into an infant before being passed through the cervix and out of the vagina--often tearing the latter in the process, which can be fixed with minor corrective surgeries.
Additional Information
Geographic Origin and Distribution
Humans primarily inhabit Mos Leferrin, which is the eastern continent of Dwell and more or less dominated by Absolutists.
Civilization and Culture
Major Organizations
Humans are the primary demographic associated with the religion known as Absolutism, which worships the deity Ryn. Through this, they also play a significant role in almost every major government function in the entirety of Mos Leferrin--namely government functions in settlements or cities that currently identify as a part of the Absolutist semi-theocratic federation.
Scientific Name
Homo Sapiens
Lifespan
70 - 80 years
Geographic Distribution
Related Organizations
Comments