Niskhi (/ˈnisχi/)
A highly divergent and almost certainly unique species, niskhi are highly magical humanoids who, due to their unique anatomy, are completely incapable of reproducing with other species. They are considered mammalian humanoids because they descended directly from the common human ancestor that all humanoids originate from, but are only vaguely mammalian in anatomy. Because of their unusual anatomy and almost incorporeal, dust-like hair, they are also sometimes known as elementals.
Basic Information
Anatomy
Though the basic shape of their body is human-like, niskhi have quite a few visual differences, and a lot of internal ones. They count less digits on both hands and feet, with four-fingered hands (including the thumb), and three-toed feet. Digits on both hands and feet end in large curved claws.
Niskhi's have fairly human faces, but elongated and pointy ears, and have large tusk-like fangs on both upper and lower jaw, with all four protruding from the mouth and thus visible. Their jaws are strong, allowing them to shear meat off of bones. They have a special filmy layer over the top of their eyes, which protects them from hazards but also makes them appear entirely blank, with no visible pupil or iris.
Possibly most striking is the lack of hair. Niskhi lack hair entirely, both on head and body, but instead emit a strange dust-like material from the back of the head, apparently gravity-defying. This material shifts constantly, and while it appears to flow away from the body, it instead doubles back onto itself and stays with the body, forming a continuous stream without needing replenishing. This dust is black in color, matching the patterns on a niskhi's body, and thus hiding the transition between body and 'dust-hair'. The flow of their 'hair' tends to slow when asleep, and can be stirred up when highly emotional.
Niskhi's have two-toned bodies, being primarily a pale pastel color (ranging from human-like to pink to blue to green or even yellow), with markings in stark black. These black patterns vary greatly in shape, exact placement, and amount of coverage, but will always cover the back of the head, the back of hands, lower arms, and around the spine.
Dietary Needs and Habits
Prefer to be exclusively carnivorous, but are by nature omnivorous and certainly capable of thriving off of an omnivorous diet. They are predators, but their digestive system is sturdy and allows them to process almost anything even vaguely edible.
Additional Information
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Niskhi are notable because all members of their species are Vita-Touched, granting them all the associated senses and powers.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Geographic Distribution
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