The Devune are a physically imposing and resilient people, often regarded with caution due to their strength and volatile nature. Known for their durability and propensity for entering uncontrollable frenzies, the Devune have carved out a reputation as powerful, sometimes dangerous beings. Despite this, their natural toughness and adaptability have allowed them to thrive in varied environments.
Physical Characteristics
The Devune are humanoids with two arms and two legs, but their legs end in cloven hooves, giving them a solid, grounded stance. Their overall appearance bears strong similarities to boars. Their bodies are covered in coarse, bristly fur that offers them protection from harsh weather and environments. This fur is typically dark, with shades ranging from deep brown to black. As they age, their fur gradually lightens, and elderly Devune often sport grey or even silver bristles.
Devune are broadly built with powerful, stocky frames. Their natural musculature and heavy bone structure make them particularly durable, and many develop a thick layer of fat, especially when food is plentiful. This makes them even more resistant to physical harm, though it also adds to their imposing appearance. Their hands are large and strong, with thick fingers, while their legs are robust, built to support their powerful bodies and propel them forward with impressive force.
One of the most defining features of the Devune is their tusks—sharp, curved protrusions that grow from their lower jaws. These tusks grow larger as they age and are primarily used in defense or in displays of dominance. When provoked, their tusks can make them especially dangerous in close combat, adding to their reputation for ferocity. Their faces also sport short, stout snouts, similar to those of boars, which grant them an enhanced sense of smell, useful for detecting food, danger, or changes in the environment.
Behavior and Instincts
Instinctually, Devune are highly resilient and adaptable creatures, equipped to endure both physical and environmental extremes. Their bodies are naturally designed to withstand damage and recover from it, though pushing themselves too far without rest can lead to long periods of recovery. This hardiness gives them an edge in survival, allowing them to take on challenges that would incapacitate most other species. However, their durability does have its limits—extreme physical strain without proper recuperation can leave them weakened for extended periods.
Devune have a tendency to enter frenzies. When provoked, stressed, or in large groups, they can become overwhelmed by a surge of adrenaline and aggression. This frenzy can cause them to act with blind rage, attacking anything nearby and becoming a danger to both themselves and others. The instinct to protect themselves or assert dominance often triggers this response, and while it can be useful in combat or defense, it is also unpredictable and difficult to control. Frenzies are particularly common in larger gatherings of Devune, where the collective tension or excitement can escalate quickly. This causes others to be wary of them, and even the Devune are aware of this to a degree, and attempt to avoid gatherings that are too large to prevent this from occurring when it is not wanted.
During times of plenty, the Devune store energy so that they can enter a state of conservation during harsher periods. When food and resources are abundant, Devune will eat large amounts and build up reserves of fat and energy. These reserves allow them to survive in leaner times, such as during long winters or dry seasons. During these times, they instinctively slow their metabolism, becoming less active and spending much of their time resting or sleeping, conserving energy until conditions improve.
