Beast Encyclopedia

Beasts

Beast-related races in Shinseina are a diverse group of beings that blend the traits of animals and humanoids. With so many varieties, these races form one of the widest ranges in the World, with so many different varieties that they outnumber most other races. They are often characterized by their animalistic attributes and skills, which are rooted in their creation and evolution.

Most beast-related races were directly created by the Gods, like many other species in Shinseina. However, not all were created by the Divine; some evolved from ancient primal creatures that roamed the land, adapting and gaining intelligence over time and even taking on humanoid forms; or passing on their traits to their descendants.

At the core of beasts are the Ancient Beast Lords, powerful beings who once ruled vast natural territories and embodied specific animals, however, most information about them was lost to time. These Lords, often seen as the originators of various beast races, passed down their strength and primal power to their descendants, who form the modern beast races; or branch off and formed various different ones, some even vanishing with time.

Additionally, some of the beast races were formed through ancient rituals performed by early humans or primitive tribes. These rituals involved binding the spirits of powerful animals to humans, transforming them into beast-like beings with enhanced physical traits.

All beast-related races maintain a connection to their animalistic roots; this manifests in their physical traits, such as tails, fur, wings, claws, scales, and more. As well as abilities that are linked to their animal nature. From heightened senses to the ability to communicate with animals or tap into primal instincts, their animal heritage is a defining aspect of who they are.

Racial Abilities

While beast-related races tend to have their unique traits as they often embody aspects of their animal, most share some common abilities due to their animalistic lineage.

Animalistic

Each beast race has a connection to an animal, giving them attributes based on that animal. These attributes can include enhanced speed, strength, healing, flight, water breathing, and much more, depending on the species. Due to this, freedom is granted in the listing of what someone has.

Animal Features

Many beast races can manifest prominent animal traits at will or naturally have them upon birth, such as tails, ears, claws, fangs, scales, wings, and so on. Some even have more extreme features like fur depending on the strength of their animal heritage. These traits often provide functional benefits such as improved sense of smell, balance, or climbing abilities.

Venomous Bite

Evolved to counter the threat of regeneration, some beast-related races have developed a venomous bite or scratch. This venom slows the healing process of others and can be fatal if highly concentrated. In non-lethal doses, the venom typically weakens the regeneration for some time.

Primal State

Beast races possess powerful primal instincts and in situations where survival is at stake, their instincts take over, making them exceptionally dangerous when cornered. This state heightens all their senses by 2x for a period of time.

Enhanced Reflexes

Due to their animalistic nature, most beast-related races possess faster reflexes than humans, granting them 3x of the reflexes of a human.

Animal Communication

Many beast races have an inherent capability to communicate with animals that share their lineage. This connection allows them to communicate or even command such animals; however, it's not to the point of perfect speech but rather more-so feelings and instincts.

Adaptable Physiology

Some beast races can adapt to extreme environments based on their animal traits at a rate much quicker than normal. This could mean the ability to survive underwater, thrive in high altitudes, or endure extreme temperatures, giving them an edge in harsh conditions.

Pack Mentality

Certain beast-related races, especially those with pack-based animal traits, are much better at working together. In groups, their coordination, strength, and effectiveness in combat increase, making them formidable team players in both battle and exploration.

Beastial Resilience

Beast races often possess natural resilience against minor poisons, toxins, and diseases due to their animal nature.

Weaknesses

While each beast race may have unique weaknesses tied to their specific lineage, there are common vulnerabilities shared among most beast-related races.

Silver Sensitivity

Silver is a natural bane to beast races, burning their skin upon contact. Wounds inflicted by silver weapons take significantly longer to heal and often leave lasting scars.

Animalistic Weakness

With the advantages of their animal traits come the inherent disadvantages. For example, a beast race with traits from a cold-weather animal might struggle in hot climates, or one with aquatic traits may be weaker on land. These weaknesses are closely tied to the dominant animal DNA in their lineage, limiting their capabilities in certain environments or situations.

Primal Triggers

The beast races are deeply connected to their primal instincts, which can sometimes work against them. When exposed to strong stimuli, such as the smell of blood, fear, or other intense causes, their instincts can override rational thought, leading them to act impulsively or aggressively, even if it isn't in their best interest.