On the Inhuman: Therians, Kobolds, and the Draconic Peoples
"Go now forth upon the face of the earth which I have laid, and be thou a righteous judge and sign to all mine children, those born unchanged from their creation, those wrought new in flesh, fur, and scale, those wrought of stone and will, and all others upon the earth who bear mine image, for such are they who bear the knowledge of good and evil. Among them are my children, and they are beloved to me." Book of Alazarus, Canon XV. Author Unknown.
This document, written by Sir Archivel Brans, was presented to the monthly Scholars of Magic and Nature on the final meeting of the year 1401. It was well received despite his controversial stance on demi-human intelligence, and praised for its foundational presentation of the topic. Sir Brans was later hired as the head of the Unnatural Fauna department of the University of Tarbrind.
The demi-human is a fascinating topic, much ignored by the view of broader academia. The great geographic separation of this people from the academic centers of Tarbrind and Helebrost has left them oft ignored, and indeed in modern day, oft forgotten entirely. This document shall primarily serve to document and describe the form and origin of the demi-human, and will make known the interaction of these peoples with our modern age, such that academic interest may be once again revitalized. As with all documents of description, one must first observe the form of these fascinating people, and the places in which they are found.
Above all else, one must know that the demi-human is, in nature, entirely human. The details of this will be discussed later, but this basis is paramount in the understanding of the demi-human.
The appearance of the demi-human is wide and varied, but can be distinctly separated into two distinct groups. The first is the family of Therio-form or anthro-form, which bear the features of many common beasts, such as wolves, coyote, foxes, bears, deer, and lesser creatures such as hares, a number of birds, martins, ferrets and more. In general they bear features of creatures which are not lizard-like. The second are those of semi-draconic lineage, the Draconic they are called, who have a particularly interesting origin. These people resemble an anthropomorphic lesser dragon, with scales very similar to their name-sake, and many similar features. They were described again in recent times by Sir John Heldefson, who encountered some in his journeys to the south. While he mistakenly referred to them as Kobolds, which in truth is a line within the Therio-form group, Draconic people are found rarely in the southern and far western reaches of the world. All together, the demi-human groups are referred to as "Therian".
Certainly the most commonly encountered form of the demi-humans, these people are fascinating both in form, culture, and their incredible diversity. In general, the greatest populations of these people are found in the south-eastern woods and plains beyond the formal reach of Tarbrind. There are also a number of small settlements in the Five Kings region, but they typically are not found the Aurora Bayou area. In the lands of Helebrost, these people are found in scattered places among the foothills of the mighty Ashur Mountains, as well as the frigid woods and tundra steppe northwest of the ruins of Arctanau. The greatest population of the anthro-form accessible by common man is by far the city of Antharas, at the foot of Mount Wayward, where they make up almost half of the town's population.
The origin of these people is a fascinating topic, shrouded in mystery. While a number of contemporary tales and studies exist, each with their own conclusions, the Therio-form people in general hold to the ancient tale told in the Book of Alazarus. While many have doubts about the book's historical accuracy, the details described within may provide some benefit.
To paraphrase in extremis, the story tells of "God", meaning the supreme God of the Church of the Forgotten God, or the Raven God, which has destroyed the accursed first race by fire and has created a new man. This new man falls to pride in much the same way as the old man. Instead of destroying them, God brings the realm of magic close to the world again in order to create a sort of divine example for man, for it was taken away in the first's destruction. This sudden excess of magic twists the nature of some peoples into a new form. The book goes on to claim that the "image of God" given to all his children is the gift of self-knowledge, rather than some physical trait, thus declaring that all people no matter their physical form are still beloved of God. It is this tale of altering by magic that the Therio-form still hold to today, and, in its essence describes the relation to the Therio-form people and the Church itself.
Anatomy of the Therio-Form
As stated before, the Therio-form peoples have a vast diversity in physical appearance. Despite this, some overarching observations can be made. The structure of the body is, in general, humanoid. They possess two arms and legs, albeit sometimes in modified forms, their gait is upright, and the structure of the skeleton is generally very similar to the common man's. All of them have opposing thumbs and nimble fingers just as our own, albeit with pads as one would expect of a wolf, raccoon, or similar creature. The skull and by extension, the head, are usually the most distinctive. While the exact structure varies, forward facing eyes are dominant even in prey species. Otherwise, the head closely resembles the namesake animal. It is difficult to describe, but even the "animalistic" head has a cast of humanity about it. Interestingly, the anatomy of the head does not seem to impact speech as much one might think.
The hip region and upper leg structure is strikingly reminiscent of ours, however the lower leg and foot display deviation. These parts usually display the same stance-structure of the namesake animal. For example, canid persons have a digitigrade stance, while bear and racoon related persons have a plantigrade stance much like our own. Most of them have tails, with length and structure depending on the family.
Of special consideration is the bird and bat forms. The bird-like individuals have little resemblance to known avians, instead appearing as their own family. This trait often likens them to the Dragon-descent, but I choose to place them here, for they lack the definitive historical connections of the latter. Avian forms have slender, scaled and featherless legs, not unlike a chicken. This nature extends to their arms as well, which are often feathered part way, with scaled wrists and hands bearing talons rather than nails or claws. They have thick coats of very long feathers with a wide variety of color and pattern, but similar in structure. They possess beaks, and they appear as short and stout, like seed-eating birds, with a slight hook like birds of prey. The exact shape varies from family to family. This reflects their omnivorous diet. Obviously they are incapable of subsisting off nectars and juices as some birds do, and become rather offended if one assumes they might.
Being descendants of winged creatures, They indeed have wings and tails much as a bird of prey does. The joints of the wings connect on the rear of the shoulder-blades, with structure much like a second set of arms. The necessary musculature for these wings makes them look very strong, despite their light weight and slim frame beneath the feathers. The wings themselves are very similar in structure to those of birds. While they are capable of flight, They must maintain their weight carefully in order to be able to fly long distance. While they do not fly as often as one might expect, as it is very exhausting, they are able to fly surprisingly long distance if the conditions are right. Due to this nature of weight management and having dense feather covering, they rarely wear clothes besides some pouches.
On the other hand, bat-forms retain the membrane-like wings, though with much shorter spans so that their overall proportions are not much divorced from the common man. Interestingly, they tend to possess two fingers and a thumb, tipped with a small claw. It appears that the missing fingers are actually modified parts of the wing structure, and indeed comparing them to ordinary bats one can find the same nature there as well, though they would technically posses six fingers if they were proportionate. They are covered with a fine downy fur, and have a rather striking "mane" of thick fur around the neck and down the ridge of the spine. Like the avian form, they are capable of short flight, owed to their very slim frame, and weak bones. Most of them are darkly colored, though a few ginger and peach colored families exist.
Perhaps the most interesting detail is that of size. One would expect the physical size of the Therio-form to vary wildly across families, but that is not so present as many assume. While differences do exist, adults range in height from about four feet to about eight at the greatest.
In general, the Therio-form ability of scent is much stronger than the common man. Canids in particular are put off by unpleasant body odor, and among the Therio-form is a strong culture of hygiene, making extensive use of scented soaps and oils. If one is to meet or abide with one of these people, it is my strongest recommendation to make yourself clean and pleasant, both for comfort and politeness. In the eyes of these people, taking care of the body and consideration of the neighbor is what separates them from the common beast. Since the majority of Antharas' therian population is descendent of timber wolves, foxes, and coyotes, the bathhouse is a wise first stop on arrival, and do not be offended if the gatekeepers direct you there on entry.
Reproduction and Family Lines in the Therio-form
The reproductive habits of the Therio-form people is of special consideration. Given the wide variety of families and the relative lower population, one might expect that finding a partner might be a difficult prospect. In this inquiry I have learned that different families of forms may intermingle freely, and without consequence. When two different families, such as a wolf father and a stag mother, for example, create a child, the resulting child is an equal mix of father and mother, which can lead to some very intriguing forms. However, the father's traits are more dominant in the next generation, so the hypothetical wolf-stag child would bear features of father and mother, but would sire children as if completely wolf. This oddity allows free reproduction, while at the same time preventing the complete erasure of individual families of animal with endless hybrids. Children are begat much the same as our own, one at a time, or twins on rare occasion. In the society of these people, perhaps half prefer to seek a partner of their own "family", and I use family here as reference to type of animal rather than relation. The other half express little or no preference either way.
The avian families have somewhat different methods. While the "mix" rule remains the same, avians seem to have a much harder time mating outside of other avians. It is possible, but much more rare. When successful, the mother's traits are much more dominant in displayed features, and the avian anatomy is always dominant. Equally frustrating this effort is the fact the majority prefer to remain with other avians. Avian children are not begat as ours. Mothers in this family naturally become gravid for about two months every second year, and if they mate within the last month of this time frame, they will carry the fertilized eggs for approximately three more months before laying them and brooding upon them for two months more. The eggs resemble chicken eggs in shape, proportion, and color, and are about six to eight inches long.
Children, and the eggs they hatch from, usually come in groups of one to as many as three. I am told five is the record. Infertile eggs are also lain, and usually consumed. While I found the practice admittedly somewhat repulsive, they view it no different than eating any other food, as they represent a rather serious dedication of nutrients. It is not uncommon to see these for sale in marketplaces. Certain magical and mundane methods exist for delaying or triggering a new cycle, though both are somewhat unreliable. They must be very careful to avoid blows to the stomach while gravid, as it risks rupturing an egg in the womb, potentially causing infection or hemorrhaging. Such conditions have a mortality rate of half or more.
Anatomically, all Therians are able to successfully reproduce with common man. In practice, conception is somewhat difficult, perhaps due to the natural diversity from the common man. In successful cases, children usually display either only Therian traits or only human traits. Contrary to popular belief, such children are perfectly fertile and not any more prone to any particular diseases. Of special note is the taboo which exists, dictating that such hybrid children are more likely to bear or become Wyrdlings. This is, of course, complete falsehood. Wyrdlings, despite the animalistic traits they display, are of no relation to Therians, and are the lingering curse of an event better discussed elsewhere.
Now with a more complete physical understanding of the more common of the Demi-human, we may now explore the lesser seen portion of these people, who we may consider with the lens of Therian knowledge.
Of Special Consideration - The Kobold
By the untrained eye, the Kobold people are often mistakenly lumped in with the Draconic, though this could not be further from the truth. While the Therio-form are generally considered to be everything but the lizard-like, the Kobolds are the one exception. They trace their lineage back to the same founding event that the Therio-form do, rather than the singular event which created the Draconic.
While both the Draconic and Kobold bear strong resemblance to features of True Dragons, Kobolds are perhaps closer. If one were to take a very young True Dragon, or a Common Drake for that matter, and set them upon their rear legs, they would look very similar to the Kobold. The difference mainly arises in the anatomy of the torso and hips being adjusted for bipedal, digitigrade movement, with a more severe angle of the tail in relation to the spine to enable it to balance them without dragging upon the ground. Likewise, they have necks more proportional to human, as the upright stance does not requires so much flexibility in that area. Their heads are very similar to the True Dragon, though with more forward facing eyes, and thus a slightly shorter snout. Their teeth are almost identical, including the second set of smaller, recurved teeth called aglyphous teeth deeper in the mouth to better ensnare prey, while the outer ones are specialized for severing and cutting. As one might expect, they are fully carnivorous, and excellent hunters by nature, though they have long since discovered that ingesting small amounts of fruit and greens builds the ability to properly digest these foods. This has been a practice for so long that some hatchlings are even born with the ability to consume grown foods. Bread and apples are particularly popular.
Kobolds have significantly less bodily variation than True Dragons, and generally follow the "spiny" archetype of dragons, having a wide band of short spines down the spine, back of the head, ringing the jaws, and upon the shoulder blades. These spines reflexively flare when the individual feels threatened. While they are sharp, they are not particularly dangerous, and are most likely intended to make the Kobold look larger, or perhaps more difficult to eat. Two large horns spike backwards from the rear of the head directly behind the eyes, and above their ears, which are fairly long and pointed. The forehead down to the tip of the nose typically bears thicker and darker scale than the rest of the head. Despite the fearsome decor, their heads proportionately are the same size as a canid Therio-form, and thus about the same as the common man, if the snout is neglected.
Kobolds, like their relatives, are covered in scale. This scale is much weaker than one would expect from their looks, and is soft and flexible. The "underside" of a Kobold is the weakest point, and the back is the toughest. Their feet and hands are much like the Draconic, though notably more nimble. In nature, Kobolds tend to be fairly flighty, and by reputation usually seek to solve problems with minimal personal exertion by using tools or making clever contraptions. They are usually about five feet tall. Their coloration is usually dark, with charcoals, ash grey and white, and walnut being the most common, with obsidian, burnt carmine, and burgundy being more rare.
Unlike the Draconic people, Kobolds all bear wings. Like True Dragons and the avian Therio-form, these wings are arm-like, attached on the rear side of the shoulders. The structure is scaled, though the actual flight surface is membranous, just as a bat or dragon. Kobolds can fly quite well, though they have poor endurance. As such, their bodies naturally are kept quite lean, with fairly weak bones and minimal fat. When they need to fly, they must take care not to be wearing too much clothing or armor, as even thirty or forty extra pounds can prevent them from taking off entirely.
This lack of body mass is an issue in many places, as they find it hard to keep warm. While naturally warm-blooded, they often must huddle with each other or around a more "productive" creature to remain warm during a cold night. They will ordinarily feel slightly cool to the touch, as they have a lower resting temperature than the common man, and prefer external heat sources to maintain peak energy. This same nature allows them to comfortably tolerate much higher ambient temperatures than the common man. If you should find yourself traveling with some, or perhaps even friends with them, do not be surprised if they ask you to join them in bed for warmth, or that they often sleep in heaps with each other, and will wish for you to join them. This is not only for heat, but also is a strong bonding experience, building mutual trust and comfort. This culture is rather apparent in their interactions, as they generally have a somewhat poor respect of personal space, and are inclined to disparage common man's ideas of clothing modesty.
The reproductive areas of the Kobold are naturally hidden, and they often go about with little more than a belt of pouches. If they do wear clothing, it must usually be leather, as their scales and spines tend to quickly destroy soft fabric. Due to their lower natural body temperature and high rate of heat loss, during winters in Antharas they tend to spend most of their days in the heated bathhouses, or around the fires of taverns and other such hospitality places. They quickly become lethargic on the cold, and can sleep for days at a time in cold weather, entering a state of torpor not unlike the Grey Featherback of the northern Tarbrind forests. The city guard of Antharas regularly sweep the streets on the coldest days to ensure none of them fall asleep and freeze whilst trying to navigate the city.
Reproduction of the Kobold is almost identical to the Draconic, thought their children are hatched smaller and thus take a bit longer to grow up. They also do not require nursing, but do require brooding, or at least exposure to warmth to develop. The greatest difference is that Kobolds are more or less always ready to conceive, as successful mating triggers the creation of eggs, rather than the other way around. Chances of success are much greater on full moons (even one full moon brings an increase in energy and drive), and almost zero under empty moons or empty skies.
While very rare, Kobolds are occasionally born with fully functioning fire glands just as the True Dragons have. Most individuals have the anatomy for it, but do not actually produce any "Drake Oil" in these glands for some unknown reason. It is believed that dragonets conceived on a "Brightest Night", i.e. a double full moon, are much more likely to bear the ability to breathe fire. Kobolds are generally much more active on and around double full moons, for both regular activity and reproduction. Kobolds can usually feel when a full moon is coming, as they will seek much less sleep during and leading up to such an event. Sometimes they will not seek sleep at all until the moons begin to wane, despite being naturally diurnal. This same nature causes them to sleep for almost days at a time when the moons are empty.
While minor disputes between Draconic and Kobold are common, for the most part they value the fact they they perfectly fill each other's weaknesses, and represent different natures of dragons.
While the draconic people bear many similarities to the more common Therians, their origin is all-together different which naturally solidifies them as a distinct group. These people are rare to find, though Antharas remains the best place to find them. Like the other anthro-form peoples, the vast majority of heir population lives isolated from Tarbrind influence. A notable settlement is deep within the southern edge of the Aurora Bayou, and another is found somewhere around Mount Wayward itself. I am told their people are more common in the southern reaches of the Dragonspine, as well as the southern Ashur Mountains. They have a sort of holy site at Mt. Helgemost, where it is said their people originated from. Obviously this particular area is beyond my range for the time being, but I was able to commune with a few individuals in Antharas.
Unlike the Therians who were likely wrought by the twisting pressure of natural magic, the Draconic people became what they are from a far stranger source. Millenia ago, long before the start of the Helebrost Calendar, their forefathers lived and served the True Dragon Belegar the Black, forefather of Hadrean of Helgemost, forefather of Celethon the Ancient. When they first entered this servitude, they were common people, refugees from both Helebrosti and Anorin lines. They lived alongside Belegar, and later his new son Hadrean as well as Hadrean's mother, Seraph the Azul, procuring food for him and watching over him when he eventually entered his great hibernation. In exchange they lived in peace, for no creature or man dared assault them who had a Dragon's protection.
When Belegar awoke from his great slumber to find his people had watched over him and his family for generations of their pitifully short lives, he was so deeply moved that he granted some portion of his magic upon them. Over the next generations, his people changed, reflecting the draconic magic that welled within them. While the blessing-mark itself has mostly faded, millenia later, the Draconic people remain able to regenerate magic much faster than the common man, and more yet than even the Therian. They are also born with the innate ability to direct and manipulate the flow of magic within themselves, something it takes most magicians and spellcasters years to learn.
The Anatomy of the Draconic
Unlike the diverse range of animal families present in the Therio-form, the Draconic people all bear similar resemblance to an extent. While their physical features remain as uncertain and chaotic as the mighty creature which created them, they share a general frame. The Draconian is roughly six to eight feet in height, with an equally long tail which is very wide at the base, and tapers to a whip-like end, often adorned with a tuft of feathers. They have a stout build, and fine, overlapping scales much as their creator's, although these scales do not render them so impervious. The front of their body is light colored, much like the underbelly of any lizard or snake. This coloration continues up the throat, and across the lower portion of the snout. The scales of the back are generally more thick and rough, and those of the legs are particularly durable. Some bear crowns of horns adorning the jaw-line, or the back of the head, while some have few or no horns at all. They do not have wings as their creators do, and never have.
Like True Dragons and the common men they hail from, Draconians are warm-blooded. And unlike the lizards they are so often likened to, they do not molt, instead old and damaged scales are individually replaced, pushed out by a fresh scale behind it. This can give them a somewhat dappled appearance, as new scales are much more colorful and shiny for a few weeks. Their scale may be a wide range of colors, and usually display some subtle patterning. Earthy shades of greens, umbers, and tans are common, black, grey and even slightly purple hues are less common, but not rare. Reds and sandy-yellows also appear with some commonality, more often in the Helebrost families.
Their head shape resembles a canid's or that of the common Drake, for those fortunate to have seen one closely. The jawline is typically defined by three to eight small horn-like spikes, and they commonly have two larger horns on top of the head, just above their swept back, pointed ears. While rare, these horns may be replaced with more frilly, membranous structures, though I did not meet any myself. A mane of small feathers runs from the tip of the tail, along the spine, and terminating in a shock not unlike hair at the head. These feathers are fairly long, but quite fine, and have a wide range of colors.
Their gait is digitigrade, with three large toes bearing menacingly large talons, and a fourth, smaller toe on the side of the leg, much like a canid dew-claw. Like the other anthro-forms, they have five fingers and an opposable thumb, albeit clad in scale and tipped with short yet thick claws. Fully grown Draconians are heavy, often in excess of 250 up to 400 pounds for a healthy adult. Despite this, they have no issue with swift movement and stealth. Their strength is incredible, and they often carry their entire body weight in cargo without trouble.
Much like the more common therio-forms, they too have a keen sense of smell, and prefer to keep themselves well cleaned, something made easier by the fact they do not sweat in the same manner as we do. Instead, their feathers wick up moisture, and dry quickly which prevents ill scents. Most of their body heat is regulated in their breathing, which they are able to do with surprising silence. As such, one of the mainstays of their culture, rather than soaps and savors, is the brushing of scales and feathers to rid them of dust and oils. To do this to an individual is an intimate act, and a sign of great trust. They may casually ask an acquaintance to reach difficult spots, but do not be fooled, for this is a subtle offering of deep friendship.
The Draconian diet is primarily carnivorous, as they have high energy requirements. They are able to feed as omnivores as needed, but prefer meat when possible. They are prone to intolerance of raw milk later in life, but rarely have issues with hard cheeses. While the Draconian routinely consumes large quantities of food, they store large amounts of fat in their tail and thighs. In a healthy, well fed specimen, the base of the tail may be nearly as wide as the torso itself. Due to this, a Draconian can go without food entirely for months if necessary.
Unlike the Therians, who all have roughly ordinary life spans, and grow at much the same rate, Draconians usually live for about 80 to 100 years, sometimes as much as 120. As such, they grow slower, and have a ovulation to hatch period of just over a year.
Reproduction of the Draconian
As one might expect, Draconians are entirely able to reproduce with other Therians and by extension, the common man as well. They tend to have the same level of difficulty as the Avian types, for many of the same reasons. Interestingly, they are quite compatible with avian types, though both groups tend to prefer to keep to themselves when it comes to partners. Communal lines are blurred the most with the Kobold people, and cohabitation and intermarriage between Kobold and Draconic is common. Interestingly, the overall form of the Kobold tends to dominate, while taking on the colors of the Draconic.
Much like the avian types, the Draconic people also bear eggs, albeit in a different manner. Once every six months or so, the body forms between one and three eggs. If they are fertilized within about a week of complete formation, they are gestated for another six months, then lain. If they are not fertilized, they are re-absorbed into the body without much disruption, though extreme stress can trigger the body to lay them regardless. The eggs at this stage are much like an avian therio-form's, about four to six inches in diameter, and eight to ten inches long. They have somewhat soft shells, which harden by air in the hours after laying. The risk of internal rupture is greatly lessened by this, though it can still happen. Should it happen anyways, the result is generally much less traumatic to the body.
"Go now forth upon the face of the earth which I have laid, and be thou a righteous judge and sign to all mine children, those born unchanged from their creation, those wrought new in flesh, fur, and scale, those wrought of stone and will, and all others upon the earth who bear mine image, for such are they who bear the knowledge of good and evil. Among them are my children, and they are beloved to me." Book of Alazarus, Canon XV. Author Unknown.
This document, written by Sir Archivel Brans, was presented to the monthly Scholars of Magic and Nature on the final meeting of the year 1401. It was well received despite his controversial stance on demi-human intelligence, and praised for its foundational presentation of the topic. Sir Brans was later hired as the head of the Unnatural Fauna department of the University of Tarbrind.
The demi-human is a fascinating topic, much ignored by the view of broader academia. The great geographic separation of this people from the academic centers of Tarbrind and Helebrost has left them oft ignored, and indeed in modern day, oft forgotten entirely. This document shall primarily serve to document and describe the form and origin of the demi-human, and will make known the interaction of these peoples with our modern age, such that academic interest may be once again revitalized. As with all documents of description, one must first observe the form of these fascinating people, and the places in which they are found.
Above all else, one must know that the demi-human is, in nature, entirely human. The details of this will be discussed later, but this basis is paramount in the understanding of the demi-human.
The appearance of the demi-human is wide and varied, but can be distinctly separated into two distinct groups. The first is the family of Therio-form or anthro-form, which bear the features of many common beasts, such as wolves, coyote, foxes, bears, deer, and lesser creatures such as hares, a number of birds, martins, ferrets and more. In general they bear features of creatures which are not lizard-like. The second are those of semi-draconic lineage, the Draconic they are called, who have a particularly interesting origin. These people resemble an anthropomorphic lesser dragon, with scales very similar to their name-sake, and many similar features. They were described again in recent times by Sir John Heldefson, who encountered some in his journeys to the south. While he mistakenly referred to them as Kobolds, which in truth is a line within the Therio-form group, Draconic people are found rarely in the southern and far western reaches of the world. All together, the demi-human groups are referred to as "Therian".
Certainly the most commonly encountered form of the demi-humans, these people are fascinating both in form, culture, and their incredible diversity. In general, the greatest populations of these people are found in the south-eastern woods and plains beyond the formal reach of Tarbrind. There are also a number of small settlements in the Five Kings region, but they typically are not found the Aurora Bayou area. In the lands of Helebrost, these people are found in scattered places among the foothills of the mighty Ashur Mountains, as well as the frigid woods and tundra steppe northwest of the ruins of Arctanau. The greatest population of the anthro-form accessible by common man is by far the city of Antharas, at the foot of Mount Wayward, where they make up almost half of the town's population.
The origin of these people is a fascinating topic, shrouded in mystery. While a number of contemporary tales and studies exist, each with their own conclusions, the Therio-form people in general hold to the ancient tale told in the Book of Alazarus. While many have doubts about the book's historical accuracy, the details described within may provide some benefit.
To paraphrase in extremis, the story tells of "God", meaning the supreme God of the Church of the Forgotten God, or the Raven God, which has destroyed the accursed first race by fire and has created a new man. This new man falls to pride in much the same way as the old man. Instead of destroying them, God brings the realm of magic close to the world again in order to create a sort of divine example for man, for it was taken away in the first's destruction. This sudden excess of magic twists the nature of some peoples into a new form. The book goes on to claim that the "image of God" given to all his children is the gift of self-knowledge, rather than some physical trait, thus declaring that all people no matter their physical form are still beloved of God. It is this tale of altering by magic that the Therio-form still hold to today, and, in its essence describes the relation to the Therio-form people and the Church itself.
Anatomy of the Therio-Form
As stated before, the Therio-form peoples have a vast diversity in physical appearance. Despite this, some overarching observations can be made. The structure of the body is, in general, humanoid. They possess two arms and legs, albeit sometimes in modified forms, their gait is upright, and the structure of the skeleton is generally very similar to the common man's. All of them have opposing thumbs and nimble fingers just as our own, albeit with pads as one would expect of a wolf, raccoon, or similar creature. The skull and by extension, the head, are usually the most distinctive. While the exact structure varies, forward facing eyes are dominant even in prey species. Otherwise, the head closely resembles the namesake animal. It is difficult to describe, but even the "animalistic" head has a cast of humanity about it. Interestingly, the anatomy of the head does not seem to impact speech as much one might think.
The hip region and upper leg structure is strikingly reminiscent of ours, however the lower leg and foot display deviation. These parts usually display the same stance-structure of the namesake animal. For example, canid persons have a digitigrade stance, while bear and racoon related persons have a plantigrade stance much like our own. Most of them have tails, with length and structure depending on the family.
Of special consideration is the bird and bat forms. The bird-like individuals have little resemblance to known avians, instead appearing as their own family. This trait often likens them to the Dragon-descent, but I choose to place them here, for they lack the definitive historical connections of the latter. Avian forms have slender, scaled and featherless legs, not unlike a chicken. This nature extends to their arms as well, which are often feathered part way, with scaled wrists and hands bearing talons rather than nails or claws. They have thick coats of very long feathers with a wide variety of color and pattern, but similar in structure. They possess beaks, and they appear as short and stout, like seed-eating birds, with a slight hook like birds of prey. The exact shape varies from family to family. This reflects their omnivorous diet. Obviously they are incapable of subsisting off nectars and juices as some birds do, and become rather offended if one assumes they might.
Being descendants of winged creatures, They indeed have wings and tails much as a bird of prey does. The joints of the wings connect on the rear of the shoulder-blades, with structure much like a second set of arms. The necessary musculature for these wings makes them look very strong, despite their light weight and slim frame beneath the feathers. The wings themselves are very similar in structure to those of birds. While they are capable of flight, They must maintain their weight carefully in order to be able to fly long distance. While they do not fly as often as one might expect, as it is very exhausting, they are able to fly surprisingly long distance if the conditions are right. Due to this nature of weight management and having dense feather covering, they rarely wear clothes besides some pouches.
On the other hand, bat-forms retain the membrane-like wings, though with much shorter spans so that their overall proportions are not much divorced from the common man. Interestingly, they tend to possess two fingers and a thumb, tipped with a small claw. It appears that the missing fingers are actually modified parts of the wing structure, and indeed comparing them to ordinary bats one can find the same nature there as well, though they would technically posses six fingers if they were proportionate. They are covered with a fine downy fur, and have a rather striking "mane" of thick fur around the neck and down the ridge of the spine. Like the avian form, they are capable of short flight, owed to their very slim frame, and weak bones. Most of them are darkly colored, though a few ginger and peach colored families exist.
Perhaps the most interesting detail is that of size. One would expect the physical size of the Therio-form to vary wildly across families, but that is not so present as many assume. While differences do exist, adults range in height from about four feet to about eight at the greatest.
In general, the Therio-form ability of scent is much stronger than the common man. Canids in particular are put off by unpleasant body odor, and among the Therio-form is a strong culture of hygiene, making extensive use of scented soaps and oils. If one is to meet or abide with one of these people, it is my strongest recommendation to make yourself clean and pleasant, both for comfort and politeness. In the eyes of these people, taking care of the body and consideration of the neighbor is what separates them from the common beast. Since the majority of Antharas' therian population is descendent of timber wolves, foxes, and coyotes, the bathhouse is a wise first stop on arrival, and do not be offended if the gatekeepers direct you there on entry.
Reproduction and Family Lines in the Therio-form
The reproductive habits of the Therio-form people is of special consideration. Given the wide variety of families and the relative lower population, one might expect that finding a partner might be a difficult prospect. In this inquiry I have learned that different families of forms may intermingle freely, and without consequence. When two different families, such as a wolf father and a stag mother, for example, create a child, the resulting child is an equal mix of father and mother, which can lead to some very intriguing forms. However, the father's traits are more dominant in the next generation, so the hypothetical wolf-stag child would bear features of father and mother, but would sire children as if completely wolf. This oddity allows free reproduction, while at the same time preventing the complete erasure of individual families of animal with endless hybrids. Children are begat much the same as our own, one at a time, or twins on rare occasion. In the society of these people, perhaps half prefer to seek a partner of their own "family", and I use family here as reference to type of animal rather than relation. The other half express little or no preference either way.
The avian families have somewhat different methods. While the "mix" rule remains the same, avians seem to have a much harder time mating outside of other avians. It is possible, but much more rare. When successful, the mother's traits are much more dominant in displayed features, and the avian anatomy is always dominant. Equally frustrating this effort is the fact the majority prefer to remain with other avians. Avian children are not begat as ours. Mothers in this family naturally become gravid for about two months every second year, and if they mate within the last month of this time frame, they will carry the fertilized eggs for approximately three more months before laying them and brooding upon them for two months more. The eggs resemble chicken eggs in shape, proportion, and color, and are about six to eight inches long.
Children, and the eggs they hatch from, usually come in groups of one to as many as three. I am told five is the record. Infertile eggs are also lain, and usually consumed. While I found the practice admittedly somewhat repulsive, they view it no different than eating any other food, as they represent a rather serious dedication of nutrients. It is not uncommon to see these for sale in marketplaces. Certain magical and mundane methods exist for delaying or triggering a new cycle, though both are somewhat unreliable. They must be very careful to avoid blows to the stomach while gravid, as it risks rupturing an egg in the womb, potentially causing infection or hemorrhaging. Such conditions have a mortality rate of half or more.
Anatomically, all Therians are able to successfully reproduce with common man. In practice, conception is somewhat difficult, perhaps due to the natural diversity from the common man. In successful cases, children usually display either only Therian traits or only human traits. Contrary to popular belief, such children are perfectly fertile and not any more prone to any particular diseases. Of special note is the taboo which exists, dictating that such hybrid children are more likely to bear or become Wyrdlings. This is, of course, complete falsehood. Wyrdlings, despite the animalistic traits they display, are of no relation to Therians, and are the lingering curse of an event better discussed elsewhere.
Now with a more complete physical understanding of the more common of the Demi-human, we may now explore the lesser seen portion of these people, who we may consider with the lens of Therian knowledge.
Of Special Consideration - The Kobold
By the untrained eye, the Kobold people are often mistakenly lumped in with the Draconic, though this could not be further from the truth. While the Therio-form are generally considered to be everything but the lizard-like, the Kobolds are the one exception. They trace their lineage back to the same founding event that the Therio-form do, rather than the singular event which created the Draconic.
While both the Draconic and Kobold bear strong resemblance to features of True Dragons, Kobolds are perhaps closer. If one were to take a very young True Dragon, or a Common Drake for that matter, and set them upon their rear legs, they would look very similar to the Kobold. The difference mainly arises in the anatomy of the torso and hips being adjusted for bipedal, digitigrade movement, with a more severe angle of the tail in relation to the spine to enable it to balance them without dragging upon the ground. Likewise, they have necks more proportional to human, as the upright stance does not requires so much flexibility in that area. Their heads are very similar to the True Dragon, though with more forward facing eyes, and thus a slightly shorter snout.
Their teeth are almost identical, including the second set of smaller, recurved teeth called aglyphous teeth deeper in the mouth to better ensnare prey, while the outer ones are specialized for severing and cutting. As one might expect, they are fully carnivorous, and excellent hunters by nature. However, they have long since discovered that ingesting small amounts of fruit and greens builds the ability to properly digest grown foods, which their people are strangely fond of for lacking natural means of consuming them. This has been a practice for so long that some hatchlings are even born with the ability to consume grown foods. Bread and apples are particularly popular, and milk is one of their favorite drinks, despite being naturally intolerant.
Kobolds have significantly less bodily variation than True Dragons, and generally follow the "spiny" archetype of dragons, having a wide band of short spines down the spine, back of the head, ringing the jaws, and upon the shoulder blades. These spines reflexively flare when the individual feels threatened. While they are sharp, they are not particularly dangerous, and are most likely intended to make the Kobold look larger, or perhaps more difficult to eat. Two large horns spike backwards from the rear of the head directly behind the eyes and just above their ears, which are fairly long and pointed. Horns vary significantly by individual, and are one of the easiest ways to identify them. The forehead down to the tip of the nose typically bears thicker and darker scale than the rest of the head. Despite the fearsome decor, their heads proportionately are the same size as a canid Therio-form, and thus about the same as the common man, if the snout is neglected.
Kobolds, like their relatives, are covered in scale. This scale is much weaker than one would expect from their looks, and is soft and flexible. The "underside" of a Kobold is the weakest point, and the back is the toughest. Consider the underside to be facing the ground if they were to lay like a dog. Their stomach, chest, and inner neck have very poor protection, but the front of the arms and legs have very good protection. The "front" of most Kobolds is more leathery than scale, and quite soft to the touch. Thus, if they choose to wear armor, a chestplate is most common.
Their feet and hands are much like the Draconic, though notably more nimble. Interestingly, Kobolds do not lack a fifth toe like the Draconic people, and the nature of this has been roundly debated with no clear consensus. They have four main toes, tipped with short but thick talons, and a fifth set slightly up the inside of the leg, which is very sharp. They tend to round this fifth talon off with stones to prevent it from cutting their own legs, or others while sleeping.
By nature, Kobolds tend to be fairly flighty, and by reputation usually seek to solve problems with minimal personal exertion by using tools or making clever contraptions. They are usually about five feet tall. Their coloration is usually dark, with charcoals, ash grey and white, and walnut being the most common, with obsidian, burnt carmine, and burgundy being more rare.
Unlike the Draconic people, Kobolds all bear wings. Like True Dragons and the avian Therio-form, these wings are arm-like, attached on the rear side of the shoulders. The structure is scaled, though the actual flight surface is membranous, just as a bat or dragon. Like True Dragons, they have a "knuckle" and a "thumb" on the wing at about mid length and use this claw extensively for both gripping objects and balancing. Kobolds can fly quite well, though they have poor endurance. As such, their bodies naturally are kept quite lean, with fairly weak bones and minimal fat. When they need to fly, they must take care not to be wearing too much clothing or armor, as even thirty or forty extra pounds can prevent them from taking off entirely.
This lack of body mass is an issue in many places, as they find it hard to keep warm. While naturally warm-blooded, they often must huddle with each other or around a more "productive" creature to remain warm during a cold night. They will ordinarily feel slightly cool to the touch, as they have a lower resting temperature than the common man, and prefer external heat sources to maintain peak energy. This same nature allows them to comfortably tolerate much higher ambient temperatures than the common man. If you should find yourself traveling with some, or perhaps even friends with them, do not be surprised if they ask you to join them in bed for warmth, or that they often sleep in heaps with each other, and will wish for you to join them. This is not only for heat, but also is a strong bonding experience, building mutual trust and comfort. This culture is rather apparent in their interactions, as they generally have a somewhat poor respect of personal space, and are inclined to disparage common man's ideas of clothing modesty.
The reproductive areas of the Kobold are naturally hidden, and they often go about with little more than a belt of pouches. If they do wear clothing, it must usually be leather, as their scales and spines tend to quickly destroy soft fabric. Due to their lower natural body temperature and high rate of heat loss, during winters in Antharas they tend to spend most of their days in the heated bathhouses, or around the fires of taverns and other such hospitality places. They quickly become lethargic on the cold, and can sleep for days at a time in cold weather, entering a state of torpor not unlike the Grey Featherback of the northern Tarbrind forests. The city guard of Antharas regularly sweep the streets on the coldest days to ensure none of them fall asleep and freeze whilst trying to navigate the city.
Reproduction of the Kobold is almost identical to the Draconic, thought their children are hatched smaller and thus take a bit longer to grow up. They also do not require nursing, but do require brooding, or at least exposure to warmth to develop. The greatest difference is that Kobolds are more or less always ready to conceive, as successful mating triggers the creation of eggs, rather than the other way around. Chances of success are much greater on full moons (even one full moon brings an increase in energy and drive), and almost zero under empty moons or empty skies.
While very rare, Kobolds are occasionally born with fully functioning fire glands just as the True Dragons have. Most individuals have the anatomy for it, but do not actually produce any [[Exotic Materials|Drake Oil]] in these glands for some unknown reason. It is believed that dragonets conceived on a "Brightest Night", i.e. a double full moon, are much more likely to bear the ability to breathe fire. Kobolds are generally much more active on and around double full moons, for both regular activity and reproduction. Kobolds can usually feel when a full moon is coming, as they will seek much less sleep during and leading up to such an event. Sometimes they will not seek sleep at all until the moons begin to wane, despite being naturally diurnal. This same nature causes them to sleep for almost days at a time when the moons are empty.
While minor disputes between Draconic and Kobold are common, for the most part they value the fact they they perfectly fill each other's weaknesses, and represent different natures of dragons.
While the draconic people bear many similarities to the more common Therians, their origin is all-together different which naturally solidifies them as a distinct group. These people are rare to find, though Antharas remains the best place to find them. Like the other anthro-form peoples, the vast majority of heir population lives isolated from Tarbrind influence. A notable settlement is deep within the southern edge of the Aurora Bayou, and another is found somewhere around Mount Wayward itself. I am told their people are more common in the southern reaches of the Dragonspine, as well as the southern Ashur Mountains. They have a sort of holy site at Mt. Helgemost, where it is said their people originated from. Obviously this particular area is beyond my range for the time being, but I was able to commune with a few individuals in Antharas.
Unlike the Therians who were likely wrought by the twisting pressure of natural magic, the Draconic people became what they are from a far stranger source. Millenia ago, long before the start of the Helebrost Calendar, their forefathers lived and served the True Dragon Belegar the Black, forefather of Hadrean of Helgemost, forefather of Celethon the Ancient. When they first entered this servitude, they were common people, refugees from both Helebrosti and Anorin lines. They lived alongside Belegar, and later his new son Hadrean as well as Hadrean's mother, Seraph the Azul, procuring food for him and watching over him when he eventually entered his great hibernation. In exchange they lived in peace, for no creature or man dared assault them who had a Dragon's protection.
When Belegar awoke from his great slumber to find his people had watched over him and his family for generations of their pitifully short lives, he was so deeply moved that he granted some portion of his magic upon them. Over the next generations, his people changed, reflecting the draconic magic that welled within them. While the blessing-mark itself has mostly faded, millenia later, the Draconic people remain able to regenerate magic much faster than the common man, and more yet than even the Therian. They are also born with the innate ability to direct and manipulate the flow of magic within themselves, something it takes most magicians and spellcasters years to learn.
The Anatomy of the Draconic
Unlike the diverse range of animal families present in the Therio-form, the Draconic people all bear similar resemblance to an extent. While their physical features remain as uncertain and chaotic as the mighty creature which created them, they share a general frame. The Draconian is roughly six to eight feet in height, with an equally long tail which is very wide at the base, and tapers to a whip-like end, often adorned with a tuft of feathers. They have a stout build, and fine, overlapping scales much as their creator's, although these scales do not render them so impervious. The front of their body is light colored, much like the underbelly of any lizard or snake. This coloration continues up the throat, and across the lower portion of the snout. The scales of the back are generally more thick and rough, and those of the legs are particularly durable. Some bear crowns of horns adorning the jaw-line, or the back of the head, while some have few or no horns at all. They do not have wings as their creators do, and never have.
Like True Dragons and the common men they hail from, Draconians are warm-blooded. And unlike the lizards they are so often likened to, they do not molt, instead old and damaged scales are individually replaced, pushed out by a fresh scale behind it. This can give them a somewhat dappled appearance, as new scales are much more colorful and shiny for a few weeks. Their scale may be a wide range of colors, and usually display some subtle patterning. Earthy shades of greens, umbers, and tans are common, black, grey and even slightly purple hues are less common, but not rare. Reds and sandy-yellows also appear with some commonality, more often in the Helebrost families.
Their head shape resembles a canid's or that of the common Drake, for those fortunate to have seen one closely. The jawline is typically defined by three to eight small horn-like spikes, and they commonly have two larger horns on top of the head, just above their swept back, pointed ears. While rare, these horns may be replaced with more frilly, membranous structures, though I did not meet any myself. A mane of small feathers runs from the tip of the tail, along the spine, and terminating in a shock not unlike hair at the head. These feathers are fairly long, but quite fine, and have a wide range of colors.
Their gait is digitigrade, with three large toes bearing menacingly large talons, and a fourth, smaller toe on the side of the leg, much like a canid dew-claw. It is not known why they lack a fifth toe. Like the other anthro-forms, they have five fingers and an opposable thumb, albeit clad in scale and tipped with short yet thick claws. Fully grown Draconians are heavy, often in excess of 250 up to 400 pounds for a healthy adult. Despite this, they have no issue with swift movement and stealth. Their strength is incredible, and they often carry their entire body weight in cargo without trouble.
Much like the more common therio-forms, they too have a keen sense of smell, and prefer to keep themselves well cleaned, something made easier by the fact they do not sweat in the same manner as we do. Instead, their feathers wick up moisture, and dry quickly which prevents ill scents. Most of their body heat is regulated in their breathing, which they are able to do with surprising silence. As such, one of the mainstays of their culture, rather than soaps and savors, is the brushing of scales and feathers to rid them of dust and oils. To do this to an individual is an intimate act, and a sign of great trust. They may casually ask an acquaintance to reach difficult spots, but do not be fooled, for this is a subtle offering of deep friendship.
The Draconian diet is primarily carnivorous, as they have high energy requirements. They are able to feed as omnivores as needed, but prefer meat when possible. They are prone to intolerance of raw milk later in life, but rarely have issues with hard cheeses. While the Draconian routinely consumes large quantities of food, they store large amounts of fat in their tail and thighs. In a healthy, well fed specimen, the base of the tail may be nearly as wide as the torso itself. Due to this, a Draconian can go without food entirely for months if necessary.
Unlike the Therians, who all have roughly ordinary life spans, and grow at much the same rate, Draconians usually live for about 80 to 100 years, sometimes as much as 120. As such, they grow slower, and have a ovulation to hatch period of just over a year.
Reproduction of the Draconian
As one might expect, Draconians are entirely able to reproduce with other Therians and by extension, the common man as well. They tend to have the same level of difficulty as the Avian types, for many of the same reasons. Interestingly, they are quite compatible with avian types, though both groups tend to prefer to keep to themselves when it comes to partners. Communal lines are blurred the most with the Kobold people, and cohabitation and intermarriage between Kobold and Draconic is common. Interestingly, the overall form of the Kobold tends to dominate, while taking on the colors of the Draconic.
Much like the avian types, the Draconic people also bear eggs, albeit in a different manner. Once every six months or so, the body forms between one and three eggs. If they are fertilized within about a week of complete formation, they are gestated for another six months, then lain. Should the window be missed, the eggs will have hardened enough to prevent fertilization. If they are not fertilized, they are re-absorbed into the body without much disruption, though extreme stress can trigger the body to lay them regardless. The eggs at this stage are much like an avian therio-form's, about four to six inches in diameter, and eight to ten inches long. They have somewhat soft shells, which harden by air in the hours after laying. The risk of internal rupture is greatly lessened by this, though it can still happen. Should it happen anyways, the result is generally much less traumatic to the body.
The eggs do not need brooding (though parents often do anyways), as they produce their own heat. The eggs hatch on their own after about six months outside the body. Unlike the children of avian therio-forms, draconic hatchlings require nursing for several weeks before they can be weened to solid foods. This can become problematic if the mother is avian, and the father draconic. They reach sexual maturity at about 20. Like other Therians, children born with common man hold the features of the mother.
