Shifter
History
Though many centuries have passed since the Chosen walked Mistral, their presence has not completely faded from its continents. Occasionally, a child will be born blessed by the blood of one of the Chosen. These children manifest the powers of their bloodlines in varying ways, and have come to be known by many names. Aasimar, changelings, and shifters all fall under the umbrella of "Descendants", despite the variety in their appearances and innate capabilities.Many believe shifters to be descended from Warden, and suggest that their bestial aspects can be traced back to Idia's connection to her animal companions. At some point in their life, a shifter feels a call in their blood and forms a bond with the spirit of a beast, a totemic force that shapes their body and mind. Some shifters believe that these spirits are the echoes of the companions that accompanied Warden in his battle against the Tyrants, and they may devote themselves to furthering their connection to their ancestry through prayer. Many shifters form powerful bonds to friends and kin, similar to the bond an animal may share with its pack. However, the influence of the Guardian of the Groves sings in the blood of her Chosen's descendants, and drives many shifters to travel Mistral in search of new and exciting experiences.
Basic Information
Anatomy
Shifters are similar to humans in height and build but are typically more lithe and flexible. Their facial features tend to have a bestial cast, often with large eyes, flat noses, and pointed ears; most shifters also have prominent canine teeth. Some shifters even grow fur-like hair on parts of their bodies.
The appearance of a shifter will vary depending on which of Idia's companions they've bonded with. A swiftstride shifter may have catlike eyes and delicate build, while a beasthide shifter might be a massive brute built like a bear. While a shifter's appearance might remind an onlooker of an animal, they remain clearly identifiable as humanoid even when at their most feral.
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