Tales Of Wocdes -- The Silver Protector!

Races

Humans

\ "While all races engaged in… close relations resulting in all sorts of combined heritages, humans were among the most prolific. Numerous to begin with, humans have proven to be perhaps the most enthusiastic about the mixed blood that results from unions with more... permanent races. After all, we humans live short lives compared to many races. Some would call humans the race of change - always evolving, and always seeking to move forward. No matter the means..." That last bit sounded a bit bitter. "Still, humans with heritage features, like you, are among the most common. Though whatever humans are still considered human since so many of us have clear heritage features is somewhat of an ongoing debate in some parts of the world. Not so much in Firgrat since there are more of us here than anywhere else." - Havard Among the most numerous among the people of Wocdes, humans range widely in appearance. Through close relations with other races, they often manifest heritage features. While not inherently as physically strong as orcs or as long-lived as elves, humans are known for their incredible adaptability and tenacity. Their shorter lifespans compared to races like elves and dwarves mean they are driven by a sense of urgency, constantly striving to leave their mark on the world. This sometimes leads to rapid innovation and progress but also to conflict, as they seek resources or land. The Ancients however, have largely culled this instinct, forcing humans to behave within their means and not encroach on their neighbors. Their cultures can vary greatly between kingdoms or regions. In one area, honor and martial prowess may be prized above all else, with knights, warriors or martial artists ruling the land, while in another, councils or kings might govern society. Humans are highly adaptable, able to incorporate (or steal) elements from the cultures they encounter. Humans' greatest weakness is often their mortality and impatience. They burn brightly but live relatively short lives compared to some of the elder races. Their pursuit of power and legacy can lead them to make rash decisions or seek shortcuts through forbidden magic or dangerous alliances. However, this same drive makes them formidable foes, as they never shy away from challenges, often striving to push beyond their limitations. Their strength lies in their flexibility and ambition. They are quick to learn and often overcome their lack of inherent magical or physical superiority through sheer willpower, intellect, and innovation.

Elves

\ "The elves are renowned for their eternal youth, and grace. Usually considered close to nature and have an easier time with magic than most other races." - Havard Elves are often tall and slender, with an ethereal quality to their appearance. Their skin can range from pale, moonlit tones to warm golden hues or deep, earthy browns, often depending on their environment or magical affinity. They are the very picture of an immortal race; with often described as ageless, with smooth, flawless skin that shows little to no signs of aging until the very end of their long lives when they fall into blessed sleep for centuries or millennia at a time, until they are returned vitalized and renewed. Some elves possess faint luminescence to their skin, especially when in moonlight or starlight, further emphasizing their mystical nature. There are also aquatic elves, that live underwater. Elves are deeply attuned to magic, and the Eternal Flow. Rarely when new elves are born or those with majority of elven heritage, they are blessed by the Eternal Flow with an innate understanding of the arcane arts. Many elves possess the ability to manipulate the world around them with natural ease though they are often drawn to magic in its purest forms. Such elven magic is highly ritualistic and complex, often taking days, weeks, months or even years to weave complex, elegant enchantments though song and dance. Beyond magic, elves are renowned for their agility and grace. As an immortal race, they have the time to master any skill they wish, making them exceptional archers, able to hit targets from impossible distances, and their skill with blades and other weapons is legendary. Their movements are fluid, as if they dance through the world rather than walk, and their quick reflexes make them formidable in battle. With heightened senses, a keen eyesight that enables elves to see in low light or even darkness, and sharp hearing that picks up the faintest sounds, only a fool would challenge a true elf. Very few true elves remain in the Wocdes, and they are elusive, grieving for a past most have now forgotten.

Fey

\ "The fey... are more complicated. Suffice to say, there are a great many types of fey, but a common characteristic is a penchant for mischief and leave it at that." - Havard The fey are the most diverse of all races in Wocdes. The more benevolent or playful side of the Fey is represented by light fey, known for their beauty, creativity, and love of music and dance, but they can still be tricky and dangerous if crossed. The darker counterpart to the light fey are the dark Fey; chaotic, dangerous and vengeful or so the rumors go. Though not inherently evil, they are known for being crueler and more capricious than their light cousins. Some fey specialize in trickery and mischief, such as pixies, sprites, or gremlins. These fey love to play pranks, sometimes harmless, sometimes dangerous. The fey follow their own sets of rules, which can be incomprehensible to mortals. Their behavior is often dictated by emotions, seasons, or arcane laws unknown to most. Fey can change their minds or emotions in an instant, making them seem unstable and insane. They may go from being playful and kind to vengeful or malicious without warning. This makes dealing with the fey dangerous, due to their unpredictable nature. Many fey are however bound by ancient, unspoken rules. Fey are magical creatures by their very nature, and their abilities often seem to defy logic. Fey beings come in a wide range of forms, often mirroring the elements or aspects of nature they are tied to. However, they are typically graceful and otherworldly, radiating an aura that sets them apart from mortal races. They may appear in humanoid form, but many also take on forms that combine human traits with animalistic or elemental features. Some may have wings like butterflies or dragonflies, horns like a deer, or even bodies that shimmer like water or flames. Yet all of this is ephemeral to the fey, their forms often shift depending on their mood, the environment, or the season. Fey may wear robes of spider silk, gowns woven from flowers, or clothing made of mist and starlight. Others might wear natural armor made of bark, leaves, or stone, depending on the type of fey. Their attire usually reflects the natural forces they are aligned with. The Fey and Elves are related, though neither race would like to admit it. The playful fey and the dignified elves do not always get along.

Dragons

\ "Dragons are ... well huge, winged, four legged creatures, that are often associated with breathing fire, but there are different types. They are also highly intelligent and magical." - Havard Dragons come in diverse sizes and colors, and varying degrees of intelligence. Ancient dragons are beings straight out of legend. These beings are both magical and mysterious, both revered and feared. They are possibly the oldest known race in Wocdes, even beating out elves and the fey. Awe-inspiring, ancient, and immensely powerful creatures. The eldest of the dragons are seen as embodiments of primal forces, often connected to nature, elements, or magic itself. They are proud, territorial, and possessive creatures. They value their independence and hate being controlled or subjugated. Dragons are generally solitary creatures, often living in isolated places. Dragons are famous hoarders of riches and artifacts. Most dragons are massive, towering over most other creatures. Their bodies are muscular and covered in scales, which shimmer in various colors—ranging from fiery reds, emerald greens, sapphire blues, and onyx blacks to shimmering golds, silvers, or even iridescent hues. These scales are nearly impenetrable, like natural armor, making dragons one of the most resilient creatures in existence. Dragons are incredibly strong and agile despite their size. They can rend through steel with their claws and crush stone with their tails. Their wings enable them to fly at high speeds, giving them a significant advantage over ground-bound foes. Dragons are known for their mastery over powerful elemental forces. Depending on the type of dragon, they may control fire, ice, lightning, poison, or even the elements of earth or water. The most iconic power of a dragon is its breath weapon; a devastating attack that unleashes their elemental fury, such as a cone of fire, a blast of freezing ice, or a torrent of lightning. Some dragons can also breathe out corrosive acid, deadly gases, or even pure magic. Magic is also a key aspect of a dragon’s power. Many dragons are ancient spellcasters, capable of casting potent arcane spells or incantations that most mages could not even dream of. Their magic often surpasses even the most powerful magic users of other races, as dragons have all the time in the world, often spanning millennia or even more, to master their craft, only matched by elder elves, demons, fey and kitsune. Dragons are also highly resistant to magic, with some being completely immune to certain types of spells. Commonly, dragons possess intelligence far surpassing that of most mortals. Exceptions exist, some are more beasts than intelligent creatures. Yet, no matter what, they are often highly cunning, able to outwit and outmaneuver enemies through strategy as much as brute force. They are also often capable of communicating directly with other beings’ minds.

Beastkin

\ "Beastkin is a general term, it does not refer to one specific people but a set of varied tribes. Each tribe takes traits from a specific animal." - Havard Beastkin are humanoid creatures with distinct animalistic features, blending the characteristics of humans with various beasts. They come in many forms, with traits that mirror the animals they resemble—such as wolves, tigers, foxes, or even reptiles. It is often theorized that beastkins are just humans with multiple heritage features, but this has been hard to prove. Their behavior is often more primal, more akin to their animal counterparts than humans with beastkin heritage. There are also beastkin that are more animal than person, but the lines are blurred. Beastkin typically possess fur, feathers, scales, or other skin textures depending on their specific type of animal kinship. Some may have sharp claws, tails, horns, or even wings. Their faces often combine human features with animal-like characteristics, such as a snout, elongated ears, or slit-like eyes. Tails are a common feature among Beastkin, particularly those with mammalian ancestry like wolf-beastkin or fox-beastkin. Their tails serve as a tool for balance, communication, and sometimes even combat. Beastkin culture often revolves around survival, family, and loyalty. They tend to form tight-knit communities, like packs or tribes, where everyone looks out for one another.

Kitsune

\ “You see, kitsune are… fox spirits. Shapeshifting, fox-fire, and several tails up to nine depending on age. They are much more… mystical than most other species. It is hard to know what is true and what is not.” - Havard Kitsune are mythical fox-spirits known for their intelligence, shape-shifting abilities, and magical prowess. These beings age incredibly slowly, with many living for hundreds and thousands of years. As they grow older, they gain additional tails and more magical power, making them nearly impossible to defeat by mortals. The more tails a Kitsune has, the stronger they are, with nine-tailed Kitsune being the most powerful. Kitsune are known for being mischievous, playful, and enigmatic. They enjoy tricking humans, sometimes harmlessly for amusement, and other times more maliciously when they feel wronged or insulted. Their tricks can range from playful illusions to elaborate or cruel deceptions. However, they are not inherently malevolent. Kitsune can also be benevolent protectors, especially to those they have grown to care for or those who show them respect. Some Kitsune form deep bonds with mortals. They are particularly fond of those who treat them kindly, and... sufficiently in awe. Despite their playful nature, Kitsune are incredibly intelligent and cunning. This intelligence can manifest as either a playful wit or a darker, more calculating demeanor, depending on the individual Kitsune. Loyalty is also a key trait for many Kitsune. Once a Kitsune has made a bond, they can be fiercely loyal to their friends or companions and may act rashly. This loyalty can span lifetimes, as Kitsune outlive many of their mortal friends. Insulting them is a bad idea, as they are fiercely proud. When angered, Kitsune can be dangerous enemies, using their magic and trickery to wreak havoc. The most famous form of Kitsune magic is the ability to conjure foxfire. This blue or green flame they can manipulate to confuse, guide, or attack others. Challenging an old kitsune to a magic duel is a horrible idea, as kitsune instinctively use their tails to cast magic. Having nine tails and two hands makes elder kitsune among the most prolific creatures in terms of magical output.

Garuda

\ "The garuda are well, bird-people. They have colored feathers, wings in place of arms with dexterous talons to be used as fingers. Usually also a bird’s face with a usually curved beak. There are a few of them around still." - Havard Garuda are humanoid figures in appearance with the head, wings, and talons of a bird, while the rest of its body is humanoid. Their lives are longer than humans, but they are still mortal. Master's of natural flight, they have integrated well into life at Firgrat. Garuda are agile and fast but have hollow bones making them susceptible to breaking them. Yet, they more than make up for this with their natural advantages. Their kicks are especially powerful with their taloned legs. The garuda are often described as the people of freedom, with their ability to fly freely. They are humanoid sized and therefore very agile in the air. There are tales of //the Garuda//, a massive, eagle-like bird thought to be the progenitor of their race.. The Garuda's wingspan is said to stretch wide enough to block the sun. Its feathers shimmer in shades of gold, red, and bronze, giving it a radiant appearance in the light. It is a being of immense strength, speed, and wisdom, and is revered as a protector of the garuda people. Yet, only tales remain now, it has not been seen in a truly long time. /*killed by the void*/

Demons

\ "Hmmm, how to put this. Demons have a horrible reputation. Are thought of as evil by majority of people." Havard scratches his head. "But I am not sure how true it is. You see, there is a demon Ancient, who is never here in Firgrat, but it is still well known. Therefore, I would guess they cannot be all bad." - Havard Like the fey, demons come in countless forms, demons can vary widely in appearance, motivation, and strength, ranging from mindless beasts to cunning overlords. These otherworldly beings are associated with darkness, chaos, and destruction, though it is unsure if this is universally applicable to their kind. Yet demonic heritage features are fairly common amidst mortals, speaking to their allure for those seeking companionship. Their forms vary from humanoid to beast-like to shadow or elemental forms. Typically, demons creatures of immense power, wielding abilities that far surpass mortals. Most demons are incredibly difficult to kill. They may regenerate from injuries at supernatural speeds, or their physical forms may be destroyed, but their essence lingers, waiting to be given new form or corrupt the eternal flow. Truly powerful demons are considered immortal, though certain magical weapons may be able to banish or destroy them permanently. Demons can often be summoned or banished through arcane rituals. Some demons are bound by pacts or contracts, unable to break their word once an agreement is made. This can be a double-edged sword for mortals who attempt to make deals with demons, as the wording of the contract can easily be twisted to the demon’s advantage.

Dryads

\ "Dryads are beings or perhaps spirits of nature. Their bodies, while humanoid often look as if made from wood. They might be made from wood. I admit to not knowing." Havard ponders and rubs his chin. "To be honest, I do not know much about them. I have never met one. They like forests and nature, and therefore Firgrat is not an ideal place for them. I also cannot say why your heritage chose to show itself now, but it has." - Havard Dryads are usually humanoid figures, though their forms often carry elements of their arboreal origin. Many dryads have bark-like skin that resembles the texture and color of the trees they are connected to. Their hair often resembles leaves, flowers, or even cascading vines. The color may change with the seasons, turning vibrant green in spring, golden in autumn, or silver under moonlight. Some dryads' hair blooms with flowers, reflecting the cycle of nature. As protectors of the forests, dryads possess a range of magical abilities that connect them to nature, allowing them to manipulate plants and animals. Many an unwelcome intruder has found the forest becoming alive around them. Dryads are fiercely protective of their forests. They are generally peaceful and safe to travelers passing by, but they will defend their homes with ferocity when threatened. Those who harm the trees or disrupt the balance of nature may face their wrath and perish by it. Though powerful, dryads are often shy and reclusive, often avoiding mortal contact. They may hide deep within the woods, only revealing themselves to those they trust or to fellow creatures of nature.

Elementals

\ "Elementals are powerful beings made of an element. Generally, the natural elements like fire, water, earth, metal and so forth. I have head tales of more artificial ones as well." Havard ponders and rubs his chin. "To be honest, I do not know much about them. I have never met one, though they are quite secular. I cannot say why your heritage chose to show itself now, but it has. It does not however seem strong enough to manifest any specific element." - Havard Each type of elemental is typically associated with one of the elements such as earth, air, fire, or water. They often possess powers and traits that reflect their elemental nature, making them powerful and enigmatic entities. Their personalities vary depending on their element, stone elementals tend to be steadfast and patient, while air elementals are often free-spirited and playful. It has often been speculated that elemental heritage features come from the fey or demons, not actual elementals. The reason for this is simple, true elementals are rarely seen. And their forms make them unsuitable for procreation with most mortals.

Dwarves

\ Dwarves are sturdy, resilient, and industrious beings who excel in craftsmanship and mining with a lifespan in measured in centuries. Known for their strong sense of community and deep connection to the earth, they are often portrayed as proud, honorable, and sometimes stubborn people. Living in mountainous regions or underground cities, dwarves embody the spirit of hard work, loyalty, and tradition. They typically stand between 4 to 5 feet tall but are incredibly broad and muscular, with a dense build that reflects their physical strength. Their faces often have strong, angular features with broad noses, high cheekbones, and deep-set eyes. They typically wear long beards, which are a source of pride and often decorated with beads, braids, or metal clasps. Proud and stubborn, resilient and tenacious, merry yet gruff, and fierce beyond all common sense, dwarves are the best friends and the worst enemies to have. They also are more resistant to magic than most races.

Merfolk

"The merfolk dwell in undersea cities and are often thought of as guardians of the sea. They are rather distinctive as they generally have a humanoid upper body with a lower half resembling a fish or other aquatic creatures." -- Havard With a humanoid upper body and a lower half resembling a fish or aquatic creature, merfolk are one of the races living underwater. Merfolk often have large and reflective eyes, webbed fingers, face fins or fin-like ears, and gills along their necks or ribcages. Basically, they adapted to living underwater. Their cities on the sea bottom are legendary, though often hidden deep in the oceans. They often have fins, scales, and webbed fingers but their appearances vary greatly though. Breathing underwater, communicating with sea creatures, and swimming with speed and grace means this race is deadly under water. The merfolk are often portrayed as guardians of the ocean. Their relationship with the world above is complicated, sometimes allies to sailors, sometimes enemies. Pollution, overfishing, or attempting to steal their treasures are all contentious issues with the merfolk and surface dwellers. The merfolk have however developed a bountiful trade with the world above, using seashells, corals, and pearls for trade and decoration.