Altum

The Altum of Erlyse are more predominantly referred to as Forestfolk by humans due to their origin in the southern, cold forests of Rhandivur of the continent of Lehrmaste. They are a race of kemonomimi type beings; humanoids that look mostly human save for a variety of animal traits that are represented by ears and tails, but may also include other details like exotic skin or hair colors and special markings which appear at sexual maturity. Hale and hearty, the Altum are true wilderness survivors capable of enduring more extreme weather than their human counterparts and on average are more resilient. They are however, less innovative and progressive as a whole, a detail their race is trying to change as the world society evolves faster and faster so they do not lose their place as a prominent species upon Erlyse. Unfortunately, this progress has become stalled due to a forced exodus of their race by a blight plaguing their homelands to the south, and forcing them to intermingle with and assimilate into human society. This has created some tension and conflict in less policed regions of Rhandivur. They have also managed to settle in the eastern region of Ourobos and have founded one of the major empires there, known as Osmya Fens.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Each Altum is unique, being born with specific color qualities which represent a type of animal found somewhere on Erlyse, of which only follow similarities to canines, felines, cervines, equines, or procyons. Colors of the individual Altum typically determine some of the individual’s other traits, like their strength, agility, and sensitivity of their senses. What advantages an individual Altum has over another is usually determined by their traits, and the diversity this factor of their race creates provides the race a distinct tactical tool whenever war comes to their doorstep since tactics needed against each Altum requires assessment and possible change based on their individual traits. Altum typically are placed in groupings determined by their respective colors, and generally have advantages and disadvantages based on this. Subgroupings define them further.

Civilization and Culture

Major Organizations

Osmya Fens and Ishtos on the continent of Ourobos, and Rhandivur, Bjonha and Ketarais, and the city state of Ghaiyen on the continent of Lehrmaste.

Lifespan

92 - 140 years

Average Height

4' 9" - 6' 7"