#populated au

[rainbowolfe]

Kisses and smooches, smooches and kisses :3c

right idea, poor execution on that first one lol

[rainbowolfe]

Populated AU Refs

Totally forgot I finished these--

The Beast, the merchant-village's latest novelty! A former (or perhaps, simply displaced?) follower of Valaheil, God of Mayhem. They're in-between names right now... but until they pick a new one, they're known to also answer to "Beastie", "Bunny", "Deer-thing", and "Slut." Though one might need to throw a few descriptors onto that last one for clarity.

When they're not frolicking through the surrounding woods, they're likely to be found at "The Silver Spoon" tavern, or other seedy places around town.

The Heathen; wanted Dead or Alive for all the crimes one would expect of its namesake, and rumored to be involved in some one wouldn't... Not the most heinous outlaw that frequents the merchant-village, but particularly disliked for his anti-God stance (as well as his usage of what people see as "dark magic").

It keeps itself scarce—even when it leaves its stronghold up in the Ewefall mountains—so its not often people remember encountering it. But between his more controversial acts, the graffiti he leaves behind, and his Free Pack, he has a bit of a reputation, to put it lightly.

The Beast has become a subject of interest of his as of late. To his utter confusion, the feeling's mutual.

[rainbowolfe]

some doodles to get used to the new designs .3.

[rainbowolfe]

Jackalopes...

...the predator in the shape of prey.

Descendants of Ithaqua, jackalopes primarily reside in The Grasslands, away from his other children better suited to sub-zero temperatures. Though they exhibit seasonal changes to their double-layered coats, they lack the ability to quickly put on extra fat seasonally in the same way their cousins can (shantaks, skeletoses, and icegores).

All sexes grow antlers, but only females retain theirs year-round. During the Winter, their coats will desaturate in color to varying degrees.

From afar—even from midrange—they appear to be the exemplar of prey. With their big, wet eyes and soft exteriors, they can easily be mistaken for a particularly large rabbit—and thus an easy target.

But these beasts will rarely flee from confrontation. One should always think twice before attacking one that seems to be alone. They avoid clustering when traveling as a group, but are always within range of each other in some way. When attempting to dispatch a jackalope, it's best practice to stick to cleaner methods. Even the smallest amount of blood will summon their companions.

Jackalopes are omnivorous (hypo-carnivores to be specific), but they're classified as 'true' predators. This is because they do not suffer the same consequences or risks as others when engaging in cannibalism; a trait held by all of Ithaqua's offspring and their descendants. The flesh of beasts is a mandatory part of their diet. Their more carnivorous traits are most apparent when you're up close and personal with one. Which... is a bad position to be in if you're not on friendly terms.

Jackalopes raised outside of their communities tend to think they're rabbits, and will pick up a lot of the associated behavior, but they're genetically closer to cervids. Case in point: body language.

Ear positioning is more akin to posture for them. Slouched or limp ears can indicate pain or fatigue. Uneven ears are often signs of sickness. But sometimes, these non-standard positions are just individual quirks. Their tails are the easiest way to gauge their mood, but the differences between fearful and aggressive posturing are difficult for most beasts to recognize.

Little is known about jackalopes—their very existence is debated in some regions—but every village has their stories... The trouble is knowing which ones are true, and which ones aren't.

Bonus: Jackalope-Critters

Their critter counterparts are considered apex predators, and are notorious for targeting other predators—including beasts—even when the area has ample prey.

This unorthodox target priority is mostly due to them being drawn to blood. A successful hunt will quickly be swarmed by nearby jackalope-critters, but as they have an inclination for fresh meat, they will focus the hunter and not the downed prey.

Jackalopes retain this trait, and most often utilize it for trail blazing or tracking.

[rainbowolfe]

Ewefall's Tumultuous History

Though Marchosias was born in Ewefall, he wasn't raised there for very long. His family (along with the vast majority of the denizens of the mountain) were forced away from the mountain in the aftermath of a dispute between the Gods of Verglas and the Gods of Searing. What land wasn't scorched beyond use was quickly left barren by the Endless Winter caused by their increased power and influence.

For nearly a decade, the sub-zero temperatures and violent storms left the mountain completely barren and inhabitable. Surrounding territories such as Commerce, Rein Falls, and Mawbury were forced to adapt to year-round snow—and to support the Verglas' chosen cults by way of importing food and supplies for little in return.

The very favor that caused the mountain to serve the interests of those raised from ice quickly led to their fall. The hatred and resentment inevitably outgrew the fear and reverence. The territories cut off their support. Many were unwilling to renegotiate their deals at all. Unhappy Followers have hungry Gods.

Verglas Gods that tried to force the issue had their followings decimated through tampering with supplied food and water, or the hiring of mercenaries to outright execute them. A God that cannot protect their Followers will inevitably be devoured by them.

Or worse. Offered up to a God that can.

What remains of Verglas' influence on the mountain takes the form of the Lamb of Frost, Yngya. The Goddess of Winter. She inherited not just her cult and her Crown, but her lambs as well. She may not be their true creator, but they don't need to know that...

She (and the snow that follows her) remain confined to the mountain's peak. Though, the bulk of her Followers reside in Woolhaven—their outpost stationed at the foot of the mountain. It has been some years since she was last seen, though few know the truth surrounding why that is.

While the mountain is still recovering from its service to the Verglas Gods, the former inhabitants have been slowly returning over the years, re-making their homes in the ruins that remain.