Shifter

A byproduct of the process known as The Taming, Shifters are born monster hunters who receive training within their Clans from a young age to undergo the process of becoming a Blood Hunter. Despite this expectation, many Shifters choose not to undergo this process and continue their lives as relatively normal individuals. The first Shifters were created by Joshua Sorrows when he began inducting other Blood Hunters into his Order. These individuals went on to reproduce, creating more Shifters and founding Shifter Clans. A corruption of Shifters, known as Gnolls, are known to exist on the frontiers. These corruptions are the target of many Shifters who hope to destroy them for good.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Shifters possess the same body plan as humans but may possess elongated fangs, excess hair, snoutlike facial features, claws, animal ears, or tails.

Genetics and Reproduction

Shifters share their reproductive cycle with humans, however, a shifter which reproduces with another species will always produce a Shifter.

Growth Rate & Stages

Natural born Shifters mature earlier than humans but have a similar lifespan, those transformed into Shifters rarely like a century after their transformation.

Additional Information

Social Structure

Many Shifters join wandering Clans which will set up in a location to offer their services for monster-hunting and other professions. A Shifter Clan is led by a Blood Hunter who is advised by a group of Elders but is otherwise free to determine the fate of the Clan. These Clans rarely remain in a location for longer than fifty years.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

Shifters may be found in pockets across Aberiam, typically in wilder frontiers where people don't look upon them as harshly and where their Clans can find easy work.

Average Intelligence

Shifters are as intelligent as humans but are prone to stronger instinctual responses.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Shifter possess the keen senses of animals, reflective of their half-Lycan blood.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

Shifters typically have human names as most who are transformed into Shifters are human.

Major Organizations

Despite typically being led by a human, Clan Sorrows is the most respected among Shifter Clans. This is due to the dedication of the Clan to the craft of Blood Hunting. The leader of Clan Sorrows is seen as the unofficial king of Shifters, granted the title of "Master of the Hunt."

Culture and Cultural Heritage

Shifter Clans typically raise their children communally.

History

One of the youngest races of Aberiam, Shifters are regarded by other races with both suspicion and respect. Dedicating themselves to a Clan lifestyle which mirrors the Dragonborn and the Dvati. Their history so far started tumultuously with the creation of Gnolls by Lucas Jannis under the influence of Yeenoghu. Since then, Shifter Clans began to steadily grow and appear across Aberiam.
Shifters, while a young race, have made a name for themselves as exceptional monster hunters. While many are suspicious of them and their methods, others still view them as heroes and see them as trustworthy. However, this perception tends towards that of the former as those living in rural regions hear little except for tales of monsterous monster hunters.

Historical Figures

Joshua Sorrows was the first person to undergo "The Taming" and despite not becoming a Shifter, is seen as the progenitor of the Shifter race.

Lifespan

60 years

Average Height

5ft to 7ft