Syrinx
Scholars of Old
People always question how we achieve our research, our advances. But what are a few nobodies to bring enlightement to the masses? By the end we are all footnotes in the grand scheme of reality anyways.
Syrinxs are a race of Owl beastkin whose origins have been lost to time itself. Through countless centuries, they have studied everything under the sun. From art to philosophy, countless faiths to science and history. Although the ethics of their research are often debatable.
Basic Information
Anatomy
Their kind resembles hunched-over humanoid owls, complete with feathered skin and beaks. The only parts not covered in feathers are their talons used as hands and feet. Additionally, they possess a pair of wings whose wingspan usually is as wide as they are tall, if not more.
Biological Traits
Sealed Mind
Thanks to centuries of evolution, a Syrinx's mind cannot be influenced by anything. Some might call it stubbornness, while others consider it egotistical pride. Either way, this makes them valued as negotiators, having an iron will when it comes to debates.
Subspecies
Like owls, Syrinxs have quite some diversity amongst their race. As such, their appearance resemble many owl subspecies: barn owls, horned owls, long-eared, short-eared, etc.
Genetics and Reproduction
Like other birdfolk, they reproduce by laying eggs. Every 20 or so years, a female Syrinx lays about 3 eggs, which are kept safe and secure. Over the span of a several months, the eggs finally hatch as baby Syrinxs are born.
Dietary Needs and Habits
While Syrinxs eats like most others, their beaked mouth forces them to eat only in small chunks. Yet, some of their owl nature peaks through with their barf pellets. As their diets can be picky on what's edible, indigestible matter gets barfed back out.
Additional Information
Geographic Origin and Distribution
Syrinxs live all across the equator, often in small communities of their kind. However, most tend to be nomadic by nature, travelling from place to place in groups or alone. As such, they have been reported all over the place.
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Seeing as they are nocturnal creatures, they possess an excellent darkvision. Most are even better at seeing things during the night than during the day.
Civilization and Culture
Major Organizations
Telltale Society
The Telltale Society is well known for being Sichelan's investigation group. Working outside of any government, they seek to expose and show the truth in everything. Despite the dismay of many, it does help prevent potential threats to society.
Common Taboos
You know what's worse than a fool? A lying fool.
Although Syrinxs have little to no ethics, they do have standards. As such, it is considered blasphemous for one to spread misinformation. Regardless of what subject matter discussed, evidence shown must be complete truths.
Should one spread misinformation, said Syrinx gets exiled and forced to prove evidence. Should they return still telling lies, their name can't ever be written down.
History
Little is known about the history of the Syrinxs. Although they've existed for as long as people know, nobody remembers where they came from. Even with the records, the traces seem to drop dead before their origins.
What people do know is the fact they had a clashing with Elves before Sichelan got colonised. It might have been that originally they were a neighbour, before becoming the owl folk they are today. Although evidence is scarce.
Theories believe that their transformation into the beastkin might have some Fae influence. Others meanwhile assume they tried to gain the longevity of Elves through alchemy. Regardless, whatever remnants of their past are gone, forgotten even by their own kind.
Historical Figures
The Nameless Syrinx
There are legends of a nameless Syrinx being mentioned in many records. Punished by his group for believing in a falsehood, he kept his research ongoing. As such, while nobody can't write his name down, it didn't stop his aid in other studies.
Common Myths and Legends
- Syrinxs only eat bugs: Despite their bird-like nature, their diet can consist of all kinds of human meals as well. Although bugs and insects aren't exempt from the dining table.
- Syrinxs are born fully adult: Most Syrinxs grow up in isolation from the outside world until their late teens. As such, the sight of a child Syrinx is pretty rare.
- Syrinxs can't have their necks snapped: While their necks are flexible and allow some to look back 180°, a hard enough jolt can still break it.
Interspecies Relations and Assumptions
Syrinxs have a notorious relationship with the rest of the world. At one side, their devotion towards research has improved the lives of many. At the other side, they're infamous for being quite nosy with their studies.
Most look down onto other races, giving many excuses for their supposed "inferiority". Though, no two Syrinxs have the same reasoning. Some might suggest biological impurities, others blame cultural flaws.
Their rivalry with Elves seems to be the deepest of all races though. Although little historical evidence remains of their interactions, the hatred burns deep. However, most of their actions are most passive aggressive at best. Few are willing to go to war with Elves, as much as they wish to.
Amongst fellow Beastkin, their reputation puts them in rivalry with the bird-like Tengu. Often than not, they are the scholars against the Tengu swordmasters. As for Catfolk and Ratfolk, many are considered simply second-class citizen.Syrinx Players
Syrinxs are a curious but prideful race, willing to study anything and anyone. As such, they have many reasons to explore the world. However, their research ethics can be questionable, with many willing to break law for it. So be wary of where your discoveries make you end up at.
1.63 m - 1.93 m
29 kg - 56 kg
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