Nafod (Nymphs/Shape-Shifters)

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World of Aserra
Nafod (Nymphs/Shape-Shifters)

Post by World of Aserra » Fri Aug 22, 2008 4:23 pm

Nafod
(Pronounced: NAY-fod, but when combined with suffix, it becomes NAH-fod. Grammatically, Nafod is singular, plural, and collective.)
This race was the creation of Entra, the Goddess of Life, who took the souls of Nymphs and incarnated them into basic form of the elemental races. Initially, no alterations were made to the original form, but the beauty native to Nymphs and their shape-shifting abilities translated into their mortal versions. They were eventually broken up into three races based on the exact Nymph race they were incarnated with. The Ochae’nafod, who had the souls of Nymphs (the main race) took to shape-shifting into animals. As they spread across the world, small groups of each eventually matched themselves to a single species of fauna until it was the only creature they could transform into. The Ochae’nafod live throughout Kalesten and Thiskel, both in the temperate north and the tropics, but always in or around forests.

The Dra’nafod, incarnated with the souls of Dryads bound with trees, and in the same way as Ochae’nafod, began to separate into clans bound to single tree species. They gained the ability to merge with trees, shape-shift into small trees, create wooden objects, and partially shape-shift parts of their body. They inhabit the temperate north of Thiskel and Kalesten.

The Marfod, with souls of Nereid, took to the oceans. While their shape-shifting is limited, they have the ability to change the color of their skin for camouflage and have adapted to an entire aquatic life. They are scattered throughout the tropical and temperate seas of Aserra, living long, solitary lives.
Last edited by J. M. Vincent on Sat Mar 10, 2012 11:24 am, edited 8 times in total.
World of Aserra

Nafod trim

Post by World of Aserra » Fri Aug 22, 2008 4:23 pm

Nafod
(Pronounced: NAY-fod, but when combined with suffix, it becomes NAH-fod. Grammatically, Nafod is singular, plural, and possessive.)
This species is originally the creation of Entra, the Goddess of Life, bound with the spirits of nymphs. Unlike her siblings, Entra created three different races, using the spirits of three different kinds of nymphs; nymphs, dryads, and nereids. Nymphs became the Ochae'nafod, a race of animal-bound shape-shifters. Dryads become the Dra'nafod, a race which is quite simply, a mortal incarnation of dryads. The Marfod, an aquatic race, were created with the souls of nereids; water nymphs. Like the Dra'nafod, the Marfod did not stray far from their roots.

The Nafod races have the ability to heal and bring life with their elementalism. They tend to and protect natural habitats from human incursion. Ochae'nafod and Dra'nafod inhabit forests while the Marfod live in the oceans of Adun.
World of Aserra

Ochae'nafod (Nymphs/Animal Shapeshifters)

Post by World of Aserra » Sun Aug 24, 2008 7:31 pm

Ochae’nafod
(Pronounced: Pronunciation: oh-CHAY-NAH-fod. Grammatically, they can be referred to as Ochae’nafod in the singular or plural, or sometimes simply Ochae, especially when the speaker is familiar with them. Ochaen (oh-CHAY-ehn) is acceptable for the collective (Ochaen culture, Ochaen fashion). Many humans may be content to simply call them “elves”.)

Created by Entra and incarnated with the souls of Nymphs, the Ochae’nafod inherited the shape-shifting talents of their fae souls and took to shifting forms into creatures of the forest to escape from danger. The Ochae’nafod are broken into many tribes, each bound to a distinct species of animal native the forest which they inhabit. This covers a broad spectrum of wildlife, but only within a certain size range. There is only so much the mass of an Ochae’nafod’s body can be shrunk or expanded. Over time, the various tribes have began to take on subtle traits of their bonded animal’s appearance and characteristics, leading to cultures that are unique from tribe to tribe.
Location and Settlements
The Ochae’nafod inhabit mostly forests, including the temperate forests of northern Thiskel and Kalesten to the jungles of Ertia and southern Kalesten. However, some Ochae’nafod tribes inhabit the savannahs of Ertia. Tribes consist of all individuals bonded to a species and may be spread across the continent or continents where their species ranges, and the tribes are broken into small clans that form communities. Clans have very small populations, with only ten to twenty individuals per community, which makes it easier for them to keep hidden.

The construction of Ochae’nafod homes may vary, but they typically meld with the environment, made of growing plants and protected by dense thickets and shrubbery. Communities are often constructed in a ring with homes along the ring and a common area in the center.

Appearance and Garb
Ochae’nafod appearances also vary greatly depending on their bonded animal. Originally, they began as delicate, beautiful beings, even the males were quite effeminate and easily confused for women. However, modern day Ochae’nafod can hardly be described the same. Each separate tribe of shape-shifters has taken on subtle features and some personality traits of their bonded animals. These subtle traits included a facial structure that is still human, but reminiscent of their animal in the shape of the nose, cheekbones, and jaw. Height and build are also affected; for example, members of the Ursus (bear) tribe are quite large and stout, while members of the Vulpes (fox) tribe are small and delicate, and Odoco (deer) are willowy and graceful. Eye color often matches the eye color of their bonded animal, and hair color often corresponds to the predominant coat color (though it won’t be patterned or motley). Ochae’nafod skin color, however, is more dependent on their region (northerners will be fairer, while Ertians and southerners are tanner). Some tribes may also have small, permanent traits from their animal, such as small horns, or tufts on the ears (Lynx tribe).

The traits that do remain constant amongst the Ochae’nafod are their long, tapered ears native to all elemental races, and good looks. While they may not have the enchanting beauty of the Nymphs or the ancestral Nafod, they are still often good-looking despite animal traits; they have symmetrical and defined features that are aesthetically pleasing to most people.

Clothing is also varied, but in general carnivore/omnivore tribes will dress in leathers and skins, while herbivore tribes will wear woven fabrics, all of which is also dependent on resources. They do not forge metals for armor or weapons, but they may be outfitted with found, purchased, or traded armor. Most Ochae’nafod prefer clothing that simple and easy to remove as shape-shifting does not include what they wear!

Lifespan and Reproduction
Ochae’nafod are one of the longer lived elemental races, most lifespans spanning 1,000 years, regardless of their bonded species’ natural lifespan. Like other elemental races, they mature at the same rate as humans until the age of twenty-five, at which point they cease aging until the final few decades of their life. Nafod can extend the lifespans of their elder fellows through magical intervention with their Life Elementalism, but this is rarely done. After a thousand years, most Ochae’nafod come to terms with their mortality.

Like other Nafod, the Ochae’nafod are slow to reproduce. Females only ovulate one year for every ten years, starting between the age of 16 and 20. Reproduction is not wanton, most children are planned, and females typically have only one child throughout their life—though there are some exceptions to this rule. Even if bonded to an animal that commonly bears litters, Ochae’nafod typically have single births, with twins and other multiple births no more common in occurrence amongst them than other races.

The reproductive proclivities of their bonded species have no impact on how they actually reproduce, though it may influence their relationships and sexual nature. Some Ochae’nafod tribes practice monogamy, others are polygamous, and others prefer short-lived romances with the intention of sexual satisfaction or reproduction.

They can reproduce with—and sometimes maintain relationships with—individuals of other races, which leads to interracial children that may inherit limited shape-shifting abilities and unique traits. They cannot reproduce with animals, and sex with animals is considered taboo, but is known to occur with the animal they are bonded to and in the form of that animal.

When cross-breeding between Ochae’nafod of different tribes occurs, it can mean a number of results. If the two animal species are compatible (like lions and tigers, horses and asses, etc.) the offspring can transform into a hybrid (liger, mule, etc.). If the two animal species are incompatible the offspring may end up being bound to one species or another (random chance) and may have complications with transformation, or they may be completely incapable of shape-shifting.

Religion
The Ochae’nafod are devoted followers of Entra, their patron goddess. They honor her by protecting their habitat from unnatural devastation, and caring for the animal life in their region when populations need to be stabilized. Their practice of Life Elementalism is governed by rules set forth by Entra, and she is further honored by adhering to her rules, or risk the loss of one’s abilities. Entra has the power to strip the Nymph from the soul of an Ochae’nafod and leave them powerless.

Magic and Abilities
The Ochae’nafod have the inherent ability for Life Elementalism, granted to them on behalf of Entra, though it is not a talent of the Nymphs they are incarnated with. Their ability allows them to manipulate the life-energies of people, animals, and plants. Their abilities are usually only used for beneficial purposes (healing, restoring life force, etc), but they can also drain life force, though doing so risks incurring Entra’s wrath and the punishment of their people if their cause was not justified.

The shape-shifting abilities of Nymphs was inherited by the Ochae’nafod. After their initial creation, they bonded with single species of animals across Aserra, and can shape-shift into their bonded species to varying degrees. They can shift useful features from their bonded species such as fur, claws, or horns, go to an intermediary anthropomorphic form, or fully shift into the animal. Staying in any shifted form requires concentration. If the Ochae’nafod loses consciousness or dies, they will return to their normal form. Experienced shape-shifters can maintain their form while they sleep, but younger ones must hone this talent. Shape-shifting does come naturally from birth, however. Young Ochae’nafod can shape-shift into juvenile forms of their animal at an equivalent stage of development if it would help them escape danger, and sometimes do so just for play. As they mature, they learn mastery over their ability, even without a mentor to guide them.

Ochae’nafod, like all elemental races, have improved hearing in part thanks to their long, tapered ears. Most clans have a heightened sense of smell compared to humans, and is comparable to their bonded species. Vision may also be improved depending on the traits from their species. All enhancements to their senses are tied to their species, however. They are also more inclined to telepathy and empathy than some other races.

Personality
Ochae’nafod personalities vary depending on their bonded animal. Predatory tribes are often more primal, while vegetarian clans are peaceful. One thing they usually do share is their regard for nature, and distrust of humans.

Relations
Ochae’nafod generally prefer to avoid humans, but they often have close relations to the other elemental races with whom they live alongside. Those that live alongside the Idayn are often kept at arm’s length due to the rigid society of their people, though the Ochae’nafod always open their arms to them. In the Ardir, Fayl’Idayn and Ochae’nafod often live alongside each other and even intermarry. Ochae’nafod and Ur’Idayn of the southern rain forests of Kalesten usually keep their distance from each other, as the Ochae’nafod are often untrusting of the primal nature of the Ur’Idayn. Other races such as Brech’mar, Zaedyn, Asath, Eain’Idayn, and Oir’Idayn that share their regions are usually on good terms with them. Kuzo are occasionally a threat to them.

Play-ability
The Ochae’nafod should be rather rare, but young individuals sometimes venture out into the world. They should be readily available in any games set in forests.
Last edited by J. M. Vincent on Tue Jun 14, 2011 2:11 pm, edited 2 times in total.
Reason: Revised from Adun to Aserra
World of Aserra

Ochae'nafod Tribes

Post by World of Aserra » Sun Aug 24, 2008 10:25 pm

The Ochae’nafod have many tribes which require detailed information and cannot be included in this topic without making it overwhelming. You can find information on currently defined tribes, and be updated on new additions in this topic: http://forum.aserra-rpg.com/viewtopic.php?f=13&t=136
Last edited by J. M. Vincent on Mon Jun 13, 2011 8:33 pm, edited 2 times in total.
Reason: Updated
World of Aserra

Marfod (Sea Nymphs/Nereids) (Revised)

Post by World of Aserra » Fri Sep 12, 2008 4:16 pm

Nafod
(Pronounced: NAY-fod, but when combined with suffix, it becomes NAH-fod. Grammatically, Nafod is singular, plural, and possessive.)
This species is originally the creation of Entra, the Goddess of Life, bound with the spirits of nymphs. Unlike her siblings, Entra created three different races, using the spirits of three different kinds of nymphs; nymphs, dryads, and nereids. Nymphs became the Ochae'nafod, a race of animal-bound shape-shifters. Dryads become the Dra'nafod, a race which is quite simply, a mortal incarnation of dryads. The Marfod, an aquatic race, were created with the souls of nereids; water nymphs. Like the Dra'nafod, the Marfod did not stray far from their roots.

The Nafod races have the ability to heal and bring life with their elementalism. They tend to and protect natural habitats from human incursion. Ochae'nafod and Dra'nafod inhabit forests while the Marfod live in the oceans of Adun.
World of Aserra

Dra'nafod (Dryads)

Post by World of Aserra » Fri Sep 12, 2008 5:17 pm

Dra’nafod
(Pronunciation: DRAH NAH-fod. Grammatically, they should be referred to as Dra’nafod in the singular, plural, and collective. )

Created by Entra, the Goddess of Life, alongside the Ochae’nafod and Marfod, the Dra’nafod were incarnated with the souls of Dryads, or tree-bound Nymphs. The Dra’nafod inherit the ability to transform and merge into trees as a defense from their Dryad souls, as well as the ability for Life Elementalism granted by Entra.
Locations and Settlements
Dra’nafod inhabit temperate forests throughout northern Thiskel and Kalesten. They live in small communities of around twenty individuals, often in groves where their bonded tree species grows. Their communities are made of surrounding flora, and are well concealed. Some Dra’nafod live in tree-house villages if their trees are large enough to support an arboreal community.

Appearance and Garb
Remarked to be the most beautiful of the elemental races, even the males are hard to distinguish from the females. There is very little sexual dimorphism, males and females both stand between 5’2”-5’8” (1.547-1.727m) and have light frames. Men can often be confused for slender women. Their hair color covers a broad range of shades; the common colors—blonde, brown, and red—are represented, as well as odd earthy tones of colors like pink, red, violet, and green that often resemble the color of fruit, flowers, or leaves of their bonded tree. Their skin color ranges from milky white to darker brown tones, sometimes mimicking the color of the wood of their tree. Eye colors are most commonly shades of green, but also blue, brown, gold, red, and violet colors occur. Like most elemental races, Dra’nafod have long, tapered ears.

Their preferred clothing is finely woven robes, though the exact cut and style may vary between tribes and climate. They often adorn themselves with leaves, flowers, and seeds of their tree. They also may create shoes or sandals, staves, and other adornments or items from the wood of their bonded tree, formed through magic rather than carving and cutting the wood.

Lifespan and Reproduction
The Dra’nafod lead incredibly long lives, ranging between thousands of years to practically immortal. Like other elemental races, they age at the same rate as humans up until the age of 25, at which point apparent aging ceases. With time, they will take on a more ageless appearance. In the final decades of their life, aging will continue until their eventual death.

The Dra’nafod practice polyamoury and have no form of marriage. With their long lifespans, relationships tend to wax and wane, and sometimes love is shared between more than just two individuals, and at other times, old lovers may reunite after centuries apart. Childbearing is a rare occurrence, and most women will bear only one child throughout their lives.
Children are typically planned, as female Dra’nafod have second to longest reproductive cycle; they are fertile for only one year out of every fifty.

Diet, Agriculture, and Hunting
The Dra’nafod are a strictly vegetarian race, their diet consists entirely of plant matter, including fruits, vegetables, seeds & nuts, and fungi. They often cultivate the natural growing plants that they eat from around their villages, and plant seeds nearby, but they do not have organized agriculture as that would draw too much attention. Sunlight also provides them with energy as they tap into the traits of the plant they shape-shift into. In a tree form, they can absorb nutrients from the soil and subsist on the energy produced from photosynthesis.

Religion
Dra’nafod are followers of Entra and serve their goddess by acting as caretakers to their habitat.

Magic and Abilities
Dra’nafod have the ability for Life Elementalism, granted to them from Entra. They are powerful healers, more so than most of their Ochae’nafod cousins. They can resurrect the recently deceased if the body can be healed and soul recalled. They also commonly encourage plants to grow and provide more bountiful harvests, especially plants that provide their food and make up their homes. Seeds can be grown in a matter of moments with effort, and from time to time, when a vital tract of forest is destroyed, Dra’nafod will sacrifice their lives to restore it from the stumps and seeds that remain.

As for their shape-shifting abilities, it is very little use beyond hiding from danger. When threatened, Dra’nafod are more likely to flee into the woods and either meld with a tree, or become a small tree themselves until the danger passes. However, Dra’nafod are also capable of turning parts of their body into wood to use as a weapon—for example, transforming their hands into wooden claws.

The Dra’nafod have the enhanced sense of hearing common to the elemental races, but their other senses are on par with humans. Most Dra’nafod are born with a strong inclination towards empathy, and many hone this ability to perfection in their adult life. This ability is often applied to communicating with animals, or disorienting pursuers and trespassers.

Personality
Generally mild-mannered, passive, compassionate, and wise.

Relations
Dra’nafod are often close friends with their Ochae’nafod cousins with whom they share their forests, as well as Idayn, Eain’Idayn, and Fayl’Idayn neighbors. Humans, on the other hand, they are very wary and sometimes outright hateful of.

Play-ability
Dra’nafod should be rather rare in the open world and should have good reason for leaving the forest. They should be readily available in any RPs set in forests they inhabit, however.
Last edited by J. M. Vincent on Fri Jun 24, 2011 8:47 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Reason: Revised from Adun to Aserra
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Re: Marfod (Sea Nymphs/Nereids) (Revised)

Post by J. M. Vincent » Fri Nov 07, 2008 12:12 pm

An update to Lifespan and Reproduction.
Zuku Ari-Ari Kika wrote:The Marfod are a predominantly female race, with females outnumbering males ten to one. Males are often drifters, seeking a mate where ever they can. When their are no female Marfod, they sometimes indulge in female companionship with the Mariel, or even each other.
World of Aserra

Ochae'nafod Tribes

Post by World of Aserra » Sat Feb 21, 2009 5:19 pm

Ochae’nafod Tribes
After their creation, the Ochae’nafod spread across the world and learned to shape-shift into animals, an ability inherited from the influence of their Nymph souls. In time, tribes became bound to specific species which they can shape-shift into. There are many potential animals that Ochae’nafod tribes could be bound to, but there are limitations based on plausibility, size, and location.

To request the addition of an Ochae’nafod tribe, please post in the Nafod Discussion topic, and I will write a new entry ASAP.
  1. Animals must be within a certain size range; there is only so much the body can be compressed or expanded for shape-shifting. I haven’t entirely determined these ranges, but small rodents (mice, rats, shrews, etc.) and most birds are much too small, and animals like elephants and giraffe are far too large.
  2. No domesticated animals, only wild animals. The Ochae’nafod developed shape-shifting as a defense mechanism ages before humans began to domesticating creatures, and by then, the Ochae’nafod had already solidified into distinct tribes. This means there will be no dog tribe, no domestic cat tribe, nor any livestock tribes.
  3. No fully aquatic animals (fish, whales, porpoises, etc.), and no semi-aquatic oceanic animals (seals, sea birds). I may consider some semi-aquatic freshwater animals (crocodiles, alligators, etc.) but we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.
  4. The Ochae’nafod tribes are predominantly mammals, but there will be some tribes for larger bird and possibly reptile species.
  5. There is some room to create an original species, but you must also give me a description of the animal for the bestiary before I can create a tribe. Animals must be rather “normal” as well, nothing fantastical like winged tigers or magical wild animals. Any magical creatures (unicorns, dragons, etc.) will not have Ochae’nafod tribes.
  6. When cross-breeding between Ochae’nafod of different tribes occurs, it can mean a number of results. If the two animal species are compatible (like lions and tigers, horses and asses, etc.) the offspring can transform into a hybrid (liger, mule, etc.). If the two animal species are incompatible the offspring may end up being bound to one species or another (random chance) and may have complications with transformation, or they may be completely incapable of shape-shifting.
Traits of the Ochae’nafod race are carried across the tribes of the race, and should always be observed.

Locations and Abodes
Ochae’nafod are always secretive about their homes. The most common construction is hiding the village within a thicket or densely wooded area where their village can be hidden by the natural flora. Vilages are often build in rings with small houses creating the circle. Homes are often half-dug out of the ground to keep them low, and are very simple—little more than a place to store belongings and sleep for the night. Meals are made for the entire tribe in the center of the village, where most social activities take place.

Appearance and Garb
The Ochae’nafod vary in appearance from tribe to tribe and take on traits from their bonded animal—some obvious, such as hair and eye color, others subtle, like hints of the animal’s facial structure mimicked in their own. One trait all Ochae’nafod share is the long, tapered ears indicative of the elemental races, and the captivating beauty of their nymph souls is passed on to them, though the traits of their bonded animal may sometimes override those traits.

Carnivorous tribes typically dress in skins and leather, while vegetarian tribes opt to weave clothing out of available materials. Some tribes use both materials for clothing.

Lifespan and Reproduction
Ochae’nafod are one of the longer lived elemental races, most lifespans spanning 1,000 years, regardless of their bonded species’ natural lifespan. Like other elemental races, they mature at the same rate as humans until the age of twenty-five, at which point they cease aging until the final few decades of their life. Nafod can extend the lifespans of their elder fellows through magical intervention with their Life Elementalism, but this is rarely done. After a thousand years, most Ochae’nafod come to terms with their mortality.

Like other Nafod, the Ochae’nafod are slow to reproduce. Females only ovulate one year for every ten years, starting between the age of 16 and 20. Reproduction is not wanton, most children are planned, and females typically have only one child throughout their life—though there are some exceptions to this rule. Even if bonded to an animal that commonly bears litters, Ochae’nafod typically have single births, with twins and other multiple births no more common in occurrence amongst them than other races.

Otherwise, their bonded animal may influence relationships within the tribe, but they do not always completely mimic animals, especially if their bonded animal is solitary.

Religion
All Ochae’nafod are devoted to their patron goddess Entra.

Magic and Abilities
Ochae’nafod all have the ability for Life Elementalism, and can shape-shift to various degrees with their bonded animal; from shifting a single part of their body, to intermediary forms, to completely becoming the animal. Tribes often inherit enhanced senses from their bonded animal; commonly, an enhanced sense of smell, sometimes improved night vision or improved vision in general, and other enhancements. The elemental race ears offer improved hearing over humans, though some Ochae’nafod tribes have greater ranges of hearing than what is provided by their ancestral form.

Personality
The bonded animal of the Ochae’nafod tribe has influence on the general personality types of the tribe members. While there is room for unique individuals, certain cultural and instinctual traits are often at play inside them. One thing all Ochae’nafod share is an appreciation for nature in its purity, and distrust of humans or other races that prove a threat to their environment and bonded species.
Tribes (Quick-linked to topic in this thread)
Lupus Tribe - Grey Wolf
Vulpes Tribe - Red Fox
Ursus Tribe - Brown Bear
Odoco Tribe - White-Tailed Deer
Cervus Tribe - Elk
Tigris Tribe - Tiger
Pardus Tribe - Leopard
Equus Tribe - Wild Horse
Onca Tribe - Jaguar
Leo Tribe - [African] Lion
Lynx Tribe - Lynx
Gulo Tribe -Wolverine
Felis Tribe - Wildcat
Sus Tribe - Wild Boar
Eunectes Tribe - Green Anaconda
Lepus Tribe - Thiskelian [European] Hare
Cuniculus Tribe - Common [European] Rabbit
Last edited by J. M. Vincent on Sun Jun 03, 2012 7:41 am, edited 9 times in total.
Reason: Revised from Adun to Aserra, links repaired
World of Aserra

Lupus Tribe [Grey Wolf]

Post by World of Aserra » Wed Feb 25, 2009 9:38 pm

Lupus Tribe
Bound to the grey wolf (comparable to Canis Lupus of the real world) that ranges across northern Thiskel and Kalesten.

Location and Settlements
This tribe makes its home in many secluded regions around northern Kalesten and Thiskel where wolves are found. Their favorite regions are forested, often near the bases of mountains where humans don’t often settle. Broken down into packs, they live in small communities with between 10 and 20 individuals. Villages are hidden in thickets and densely overgrown areas, and houses are made of materials from the forest, and partially dug out of the ground.

Appearance and Garb
Around average human size, with light to medium builds, males stand an average of 5’9” (1.75m) and females at 5’6” (1.67m). Lupus tribe members tend to be rather attractive with the beauty of their Nafod side, but also have a feral edge to their looks from their lupine side. Their skin color is usually fair, sometimes tanning lightly. Most wolves have grey coats mixed with a brown hue along the shoulders and back, and it is this brown or cinnamon color that is usually reflected in Lupus tribe hair colors. There are also many individuals with black coats who also have black hair in their Nafod form. White coats are common among packs in the far north, which leads to Lupus tribesmen with white hair. Their eye color is usually gold, but occasionally blue for white wolves. When other colors appear, it’s often due to interbreeding with humans or other races in past generations.

The Lupus tribe dresses in leathers and fur of their prey animals.

Lifespan and Reproduction
The Lupus tribe has the same lifespan and breeding periods as other Ochae’nafod. They do mimic wolves in their relationships, which are monogamous, and they do chose mates based on rank within the tribe. Unlike wolves, however, reproduction is not limited to the alpha pair. Like wolves, relationships can be ended if one member loses their position in the pack, however their Nafod heart is sometimes stronger than their desire for dominance.

Diet, Agriculture, and Hunting
As wolves, the Lupus clan members are almost exclusively carnivorous. They do not farm, and take great pride in hunting their prey alongside wolves. They do have some omnivorous traits though, and due to their combined Nafod and lupine heritage, cook their meat for easier digestion. They also sometimes put great care into preparing meals in their village and garnishing their food with vegetables and fruits. In their wolf form, however, they can eat the same raw meat as wolves.

Magic and Abilities
Like all Ochae’nafod, they do have the healing and life giving abilities of Life Elementalism, and many varying degrees of shape-shifting. From their lupine side, the have an increased sense of smell and improved night vision.

Personality
In many ways, they are similar to wolves. They structure their societies in the same way, based on strength and charisma and decided on prowess. In deciding leadership and position in society, matches are formally arranged, though rarely the conflicts within the tribe are resolved by fights to the death. The Lupus tribe is also a proud society, independent, and isolated. They keep their distance from humans, for the most part, but if they feel as if they have suffered a slight or serious trespass from humans, they will defend their honor viciously.
Last edited by J. M. Vincent on Tue Jun 14, 2011 8:13 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Reason: Revised from Adun to Aserra
World of Aserra

Vulpes Tribe [Red Fox]

Post by World of Aserra » Sun Mar 08, 2009 2:31 pm

Vulpes Tribe
A tribe bound to the red fox (comparable to Vulpes vulpes of the real world) of north Kalesten and Thiskel.

Location and Settlements
The Vulpes tribe is widespread across the temperate regions of both main continents, along with their bonded species, but they remain in densely wooded areas where they can keep their settlements secret. Their communities average between 10-25 individuals, and are concealed in thickets and dense vegetation, homes half dug out of the ground and build out of surrounding flora.

Appearance and Garb
Members of the Vulpes tribe are very petite with light frames. Males stand at an average of 4’9” (1.44m) and females at 4’2” (1.27m). Their hair is red, matching the predominant color of their vulpine coat—though some mutations appear in their color as it does in the fox, resulting in a hair color matching the main coat color of the fox form. Eye color is typically gold, and skin color varies from fair to tan. Their facial structure is very attractive, with subtle features that remind one of foxes.

Members of the Vulpes tribe dress in a combination of woven fabrics and animal skins.

Lifespan and Reproduction
They have the same lifespan and reproductive cycle of the Ochae’nafod. The Vulpes tribe is an amorous one. They practice polyamoury with relationships that are typically fleeting rather than lifelong. Women around two to three, sometimes a couple more children in the course of their lives, making them more prolific breeders than some other Ochae’nafod tribes.

Diet, Agriculture, and Hunting
Their diet is omnivorous and varied, including meat from small game and fish, as well as fruits, plants, fungi, and other assorted foods. In their fox form, they can consume raw meat, but must cook it for their Nafod form.

Magic and Abilities
Like all Ochae’nafod, they have the ability for Life elementalism, and can shape-shift into varying degrees between Nafod and fox form. From their vulpine side, they inherit an improved sense of smell and hearing, even greater than the hearing of other Nafod.

Personality
Vulpes Tribe members tend to take on the familiar traits of foxes; clever, mischievous, playful, flirtatious.
Last edited by J. M. Vincent on Fri Jun 17, 2011 9:37 pm, edited 2 times in total.
Reason: Revised from Adun to Aserra
World of Aserra

Ursus Tribe [Brown Bear]

Post by World of Aserra » Sun Mar 08, 2009 8:46 pm

Ursus Tribe
A tribe bonded to the brown bear (comparable to Ursus arctos of the real world) of northern Thiskel and Kalesten.

Location and Settlements
This clan makes its home in forested areas across northern Kalesten and Thiskel, living in small communities of 10-20 individuals. Their communities are well-hidden and built of natural debris to blend in, as well as partially dug out of the ground to reduce the height of their homes.

Appearance and Garb
The Ursus clan has a rather distinct appearance amongst the Nafod as they are large and husky. They do retain the beautiful facial features of Nafod, including the long, tapered ears, but often combined with stronger features that are reminiscent of bears. The heights of the clan vary though, as do the sizes of bears. Bears in the south tend to be smaller, while those in the north are larger. Reflecting this, the Ursus Nafod of the southern regions range between 6’-6’3” (1.83-1.9m) for males and 5’9”-6’ (1.75-1.83) for females. The northern tribes average around 6’3”-6’9” (1.9-2m) for males and 6’1”-6’4” (1.85-1.93m) for females.

Hair colors for the Ursus clan mimic their bear coats, and brown bears come in a variety of colors. Though most commonly shades of brown, they can be anywhere from creamy blonde to black. Brown is their natural eye color. Their skin ranges from fair to tan.

Their style of dress is rather feral and barbaric, as they are garbed in leathers and furs, and often adorned with teeth and bones.

Lifespan and Reproduction
They have the same lifespan and reproductive cycle of the Ochae’nafod. While they do differ from bears by living in social communities, the solitary nature of bears still applies. Each individual has their own home and space within a village, and when a woman wishes to bear children or just find a romantic companion, she will chose a partner she deems worthy. Though it is tradition to live separately, the male is often considered responsible for helping his mate through pregnancy, being at her side for the birth of his child, and then to teach certain skills to his child. However, the child will ultimately live with the mother, and only visit his father. Women typically only bear one to two children throughout their life.

Diet, Agriculture, and Hunting
Bears are omnivorous, as is the Ursus tribe. Their diets are quite similar to the diets of bears, though with one distinction; they prefer their meat cooked when in humanoid form.

Magic and Abilities
Like all Ochae’nafod, they have the ability for Life elementalism, and can shape-shift into varying degrees between Nafod and bear form. Some of their bear characteristics cross over into their normal Nafod form, including a sense of smell that surpasses that of the wolves and other canine tribes.

Personality
The Ursus culture is one founded on strength, honor, integrity, and independence. Individuals live alone, except for mothers with young children, though they work together for the good of the community. Conflicts are settled with violent, but non-lethal bouts.
Last edited by J. M. Vincent on Fri Jun 17, 2011 2:55 pm, edited 2 times in total.
Reason: Revised from Adun to Aserra
World of Aserra

Odoco Tribe[White-Tailed Deer]

Post by World of Aserra » Sun Mar 08, 2009 8:51 pm

Odoco Tribe
Bonded to the white-tailed deer (comparable to Odocoileus virginiaus of the real world) of north Kalesten.

Location and Settlements
The Odoco tribe make their homes in forested areas of northern Kalesten, and some range into the scrubland of the central isthmus. They live in small communities that number from 10 to 20 individuals. The homes are built in thickets and dense areas, and made of natural materials.

Appearance and Garb
The Odoco tribe is one of the more beautiful Ochae’nafod tribes. The are tall, slim, and graceful with delicate faces and large “doe” eyes and other subtle cervine features. Females may be small to medium in bust sizes. Males have an average height of 5’10” (1.77m) and females at 5’7” (1.7m). Hair color is often a shade of brown matching the coat color of their shifted form and local deer. There are some incidences of creamy colored white deer, which also appears in the Odoco tribe; in their Nafod form, they are blonde haired, fair skinned, and sometimes blue-eyed. Eye color is commonly brown and skin is fair to lightly tanned.

It is a tradition for certain social events for the male Ochae’nafod to shape-shift antlers onto their heads, but they do not bear them at all times due to the stress they place on their humanoid neck.

Members of the Odoco tribe prefer draping robes of creamy cotton or other natural woven fibers, though men sometimes seek more structure in their clothing and are apt to follow Fayl’Idayn fashions if they live nearby.

Lifespan and Reproduction
They have the same long lives and reproductive habits of all Ochae’nafod. Their mating habits slightly mimic those of deer. For deer, bucks often gather harems of females during breeding seasons and defend them from other competing males, but this does not work in a Nafod society. Instead, polygyny is common where one male takes generally one to three wives, sometimes more depending on his status or the size of their village. These are not seasonal unions either, they are committed marriages. Polyandry is not done amongst the Odoco.

Males will pursue females of interest, but the female makes the final decision on who she wishes to marry and father her children. There are often conflicts, which are resolved by dueling in the manner of deer; the males fully shape-shift into their deer form and lock antlers in battle. The winner takes the doe. Unlike with deer, however, the female is the one who decides if her competing suitors should duel for her. If she prefers one over the other, she will simply accept one and reject the other.

Diet, Agriculture, and Hunting
The Odoco are strictly vegetarian and make a diet of free-growing greenery.

Magic and Abilities
Like all Ochae’nafod, they have the ability for Life elementalism, as well as the ability to shape-shift to varying degrees into their bonded animal. They have a slightly better sense of smell than humans, and the improved hearing of all elemental races.

Personality
Shy, reclusive, and mostly pacifistic—with the exception of internal conflict, often between men over potential brides. They prefer not to involve themselves with humans, though they are quite sociable with Fayl’Idayn in the Ardir, Dra’nafod, and other vegetarian Ochae’nafod.
Last edited by J. M. Vincent on Wed Jun 15, 2011 5:00 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Reason: Revised from Adun to Aserra
World of Aserra

Cervus Tribe [Elk]

Post by World of Aserra » Sun Mar 08, 2009 8:51 pm

Cervus Tribe
This tribe bonded with the elk (comparable to Cervus canadensis of our world) of northern Kalesten and Thiskel and is scattered in clans across the secluded areas of land where elk range.

Location and Settlements
The Cervus tribe makes its home in the northern regions of Kalesten and Thiskel, preferring forest and forest edges. They range throughout the Lands of Kaius, along the northern coast of Kalesten around the east, north, and west ends of the Gayntos mountains, but are more wide-spread across northern Thiskel as it has more of the environment that elk prefer and less humans. Cervus tribes reside in secluded forests in homes made of the surrounding flora in an attempt to be as inconspicuous as possible.

Appearance and Garb
Those of the Cervus tribe are one of the taller races of Ochae’nafod, standing around an average of 6’2” (1.87m) for males, and 5’11” (1.8m) for females. They are lean with light to medium frames, males often exhibiting moderate musculature, unlike their more delicate cousins of the Odoco tribe. Their hair color is the same dark brown as the mane of the elk. Eye color is typically shades of brown, unless there has been interbreeding of other races in their family history. Skin color is fair to lightly tanned.

Male leaders will occasionally shift antlers for public affairs to make an impression. However, with the size of elk antlers compared to smaller deer, they must also shift their neck partially to support the weight, which gives them a slightly longer, thicker neck, covered by a ruff of dark brown fur.

The Cervus tribe typically dress in robes woven of natural fibers, and do not use animal skins as they are a vegetarian race.

Lifespan and Reproduction
They have the same lifespan and breeding periods as all Ochae’nafod. Elk, by nature, have a harem breeding system. During breeding season, bulls will try to gather as many cows as possible, and duel other males for breeding rights. Once pregnant, rearing the calf is all on the mother. The Cervus tribe’s reproductive rituals bear some resemblance to this. They form life-long (or at least long term) marriages, but males may take up to two or three wives into those marriages. Polyandry is neigh on unheard of in the Cervus tribe, though occasionally a wife may change interest in husbands and leave one for a new one.

While polygyny is the norm, it is the females who ultimately chose who will be their husband. When a woman is ready to marry, she will choose a man of her liking, and if there is more than one suitor whom interests her, the rivals must spar in elk form to prove who is the most fit mate for her.

In their plural marriages, the women typically have a close friendship or sisterhood, and help each other raise offspring. As Ochae’nafod do not have children often, when one is born, they are often the only one in the household, receiving all the love and support from their “mothers” and father. Occasionally, there are cases of the women not getting along, and when this happens, usually one chooses to leave the marriage, and sometimes the husband may even step in and choose to divorce one who causes the most trouble for the sake of peace in the household.

Diet, Agriculture, and Hunting
The Cervians are strictly vegetarian like their bonded animal. In their Nafod form, they prefer to eat fruits, vegetables, roots, nuts, berries, and the like. In their elk form, they will graze and browse.

Magic and Abilities
Like all Ochae’nafod, they have the ability for Life elementalism, as well as the ability to shape-shift to varying degrees into their bonded animal. They also have a heightened sense of smell.

Personality
Being bonded with a prey animal, they are reclusive and cautious, but because of their size, they are bolder than their Odoco cousins. They are also a rather proud race, but prudent in their application of that pride; meaning that they know when to stand their ground and when it is best to retreat.
Last edited by J. M. Vincent on Tue Jun 14, 2011 5:44 pm, edited 3 times in total.
Reason: Revised from Adun to Aserra
World of Aserra

Tigris Tribe [Tiger]

Post by World of Aserra » Sun Mar 08, 2009 11:36 pm

Tigris Tribe
Bound to the tigers (comparable to Panthera tigris of the real world) of Thiskel.

Location and Settlements
The Tigris tribe lives where the two sub-species of Aserran tigers roam; the west of northern Thiskel, and the jungles south of the Great Desert. They live in small clans of 10-20 individuals, hidden in densely forested areas away from prying eyes.

Appearance and Garb
One of the larger Ochae’nafod races, males of the Tigris tribe stand between 6’2”-6’7” (1.88-2m) and females between 5’11”-6’3” (1.8-1.9m) with medium frames. Heights vary between regions; northern tigers are smaller, while southern tigers are larger, thus reflected in the sizes of the local Tigris clans. Hair color reflects the reddish gold color of the tiger coat, while skin colors vary between fair in the north and tan in the south. Eye color is typically gold. Occasionally, individuals of the Tigris clan take after color morphs in tigers, including white tigers. This would be reflected in their Nafod form with white hair and blue eyes.

As a carnivorous tribe, they usually dress in skins and leathers.

Lifespan and Reproduction
They have the same lifespan and breeding periods as all Ochae’nafod. Tigers are typically solitary creatures, though they have been known to come together to share kills and seem to occasionally enjoy the company of other adults outside of breeding season. The Tigris tribe is more sociable as they live together in communities, but the solitary habits of tigers is still expressed in their reproductive habits. Males and females live alone, but they often form relationships—friendships that evolve into romance, especially if the woman wishes to have a child. There is a “honeymoon” period for a Tigris romance when they cohabitate, but after awhile, they prefer to return to their own space. Where offspring are involved, the mother raises them mostly on her own, with some assistance from the father who still resides in his own home.

Diet, Agriculture, and Hunting
Tigers are carnivores, but in their Nafod form, Tigris tribe members are omnivorous. They cook their meat to eat in their Nafod form, and incorporate fruits and vegetables into their meals, but in their tiger form, they will eat raw meat from fresh kills.

Magic and Abilities
Like all Ochae’nafod, they have the ability for Life elementalism, as well as the ability to shape-shift to varying degrees into their bonded animal. They have a strong sense of smell and improved night vision.

Personality
The Tigris tribe generally prefers to keep to itself, but individual Tigris often share a desire to roam—but they typically do this alone, and observe other peoples from a distance, rarely interacting with them. They are strong and proud, yet reserved and dignified. However, if threatened or angered, they will strike with killing force.
Last edited by J. M. Vincent on Fri Jun 17, 2011 1:54 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Reason: Revised from Adun to Aserra
World of Aserra

Pardus Tribe [Leopard]

Post by World of Aserra » Wed Mar 11, 2009 8:06 pm

Pardus Clan
This tribe bonded with the leopards (comparable to Panthera pardus of the real world) of Ertia’s rainforest and tropical grasslands—not to be confused with the Onca tribe, which bonded with the jaguars of the southern rainforests.

Location and Settlements
The Pardus tribe lives in small communities between 10-20 individuals scattered across the rainforest, forest edge, and secluded grassland areas of Ertia. Their homes are concealed in dense thickets and forests, made of the nearby flora itself.

Appearance and Garb
Members of the Pardus tribe are of a medium frame in size, females standing at 5’6” (1.68m) and males at 6’ (1.83m). They are lean in build, toned, but not overly muscled. Though leopards are mostly orange-coated, the Pardus tribe tends to have black hair. Their skin is well-tanned, and their eyes gold or brown. There has been quite a bit of human interbreeding with the Ochae’nafod of Ertia, so their darker features show up in the tribes. The majority of the tribe shape-shift into normal yellow leopards, but there are some individuals, most commonly in the rain forest, that transform into black panthers.

As carnivores, most of their garb is made of animal skins, and often rather revealing—only covering what is necessary for modesty and comfort due to the warm climate. Those who live near humans may adopt some of their fashions, however.

Lifespan and Reproduction
They have the same lifespan and breeding periods as all Ochae’nafod. Leopards are solitary creatures who only come together for mating, and while the Pardus tribe clan members live together in small communities, each individual lives separately in their own home, except for mothers with a young child. When it comes to reproduction, a female with a desire to mate will seek out a partner, often the most impressive male in the community, to father her child. The father has little to do with raising the child, aside from the ways he serves the community. A single highly desirable male may end up fathering all the offspring of a village for hundreds of years.

Diet, Agriculture, and Hunting
Leopards are carnivores, but like many other carnivorous Ochae’nafod tribes, in their Nafod form, the Pardus are omnivores, eating cooked meat and a variety of fruits, vegetables, and other produce in their meals. In their leopard form, they will eat raw meat.

Magic and Abilities
Like all Ochae’nafod, they have the ability for Life elementalism, as well as the ability to shape-shift to varying degrees into their bonded animal. They have a strong sense of smell and good night vision.

Personality
Within their communities, Pardus individuals are often at odds with their gregarious Nafod nature and the solitary nature of the leopard. They live alone in their communities, but often come together to share meals and interact with others daily. It is common for individuals to constantly be out scouting or hunting alone. Pardus have a brusque, brief nature about them, but also a sensuality and sense of mystery from the point of view of others. They are reserved, independent, and frugal.
Last edited by J. M. Vincent on Wed Jun 15, 2011 9:32 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Reason: Revised from Adun to Aserra
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Re: Ochae'nafod (Nymphs/Animal Shapeshifters) (Revised)

Post by J. M. Vincent » Tue Apr 07, 2009 1:30 pm

Zuku Ari-Ari Kika wrote:Stats
Ochae'nafod are such a broad and varied race that each clan has a different standard of stats.

To see definitions of clans or suggest/request clans, please go to this thread: Ochae'Nafod Clans
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Re: Marfod (Sea Nymphs/Nereids) (Revised)

Post by J. M. Vincent » Tue Apr 07, 2009 10:05 pm

Zuku Ari-Ari Kika wrote:Stats
Marfod are measured against human standards, and their stats are based on their underwater environment.
  • Strength: 8
  • Agility: 17
  • Dexterity: 11
  • Stamina: 12
  • Intelligence: 18
  • Wisdom: 19
  • Willpower: 12
  • Charisma: 9
  • Luck: 10
  • Physical Beauty: 17
World of Aserra

Equus Tribe [Wild Horse]

Post by World of Aserra » Mon Aug 31, 2009 5:58 pm

Equus Tribe
A tribe bonded with the wild horses (comparable to Equus ferus of the real world) native to the forests of Thiskel. These are not the colorful and varied breeds that have been created by selective breeding by humans and Idayn, these are the ancient ancestors of modern horses that still exist in the hidden pockets of forest in northern Thiskel.

Location and Settlements
The Equus tribe lives in the forests of northern Thiskel, but mostly on the west coast, away from the Idayn. They live in small clans of 5-20 individuals and make their homes in huts in the forest made of fallen wood and branches, concealed deep in forest thickets.

Appearance and Garb
Members of the Equus tribe are slightly taller than normal, and of medium or heavy build. They stand around 6’2” (1.87m) average for males and 5’9” (1.75m) for females. Their hair and eyes are dark brown, resembling the manes and eyes of the horses they bonded to. Their skin is a lightly tanned shade, almost like the dun coats of their horses, but not too dark as their environment doesn’t allow for it. Their facial features are vaguely horse-like, though still attractive. They have long faces, sometimes with prominent convex noses and narrow chins.

They dress in rough woven clothing, usually earthy shades, dyed with local herbs, which is accented with tufts of horsehair.

Lifespan and Reproduction
Unlike horses, which have a harem structure that lasts for as long as the stallion can protect his mares, the Equus tribe favors monogamy for long periods, though couples may drift apart in time and separate to find new mates.

Equus relationships bear one or two children, though individuals may have more than that in different relationships over the course of their life. These children are far and in between, and very rarely are they raised together. For most mothers, they begin to desire to have another child after their previous has grown up and they long for motherhood again.

Diet, Agriculture, and Hunting
The Equus tribe is entirely vegetarian. While the palate of the horses is limited to grass, plants, and other greenery, the Equus tribe eat a more varied diet of fruit, nuts, vegetables, leafy greens, and anything available to them in their environment.

Magic and Abilities
Like all Ochae’nafod, they have the ability for Life elementalism, as well as the ability to shape-shift to varying degrees into their bonded animal. Their senses are not much different than other elemental species; they have enhanced hearing due to the long, tapered ears of the elemental races, and a slightly improved sense of smell, while vision is around human levels.

Personality
A society based on charisma, the strongest individuals lead. There is a distinct pecking order just like horses. Tribes are led by both the eldest and most charismatic male and female, though these two may not actually be partners. Beneath them is a tier of individuals whose ranking within the “herd” is determined by their charisma and experience.

They are reclusive, even more so than other Ochae’nafod, and have a relationship with Idayn that is strained, and almost unreasonable. They feel as if the Idaynian domestication of horses led to the decline of their species, which further sped by human domestication of horses. As such, the Equus tribe interacts with mainly only other Nafod. They even find the Eain’Idayn, whom they may have the most in common with, a mockery of their bonded animal. The remaining population of forest horses is closely guarded by the Equus tribe.
Last edited by J. M. Vincent on Tue Jun 14, 2011 5:44 pm, edited 3 times in total.
Reason: Revised from Adun to Aserra
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Re: Ochae'nafod (Nymphs/Animal Shapeshifters) (Revised)

Post by J. M. Vincent » Thu May 27, 2010 2:29 pm

World of Adun wrote:When cross-breeding between Ochae'nafod of different clans occur, it can mean a number of results. If the two animal species are compatible (like lions and tigers, horses and asses, etc.) the offspring can transform into a hybrid (liger, mule, etc.). If the two animal species are almost compatible (could conceive offspring, but the result would not be viable) the offspring may end up being bound to one species or the other, randomly decided, and may have complications to transformation. If the two animal species are completely incompatible (such as a mammal and bird) the offspring would be incapable of transforming, or extremely handicapped.
World of Aserra

Onca Tribe [Jaguar]

Post by World of Aserra » Fri May 28, 2010 8:22 pm

Onca Tribe
Bound to the jaguars (comparable to Panthera onca of the real world) in the rain forests of southern Kalesten.

Location and Settlements
The Onca tribe lives in scattered small clans of 10-15 individuals scattered throughout the forests of southern Kalesten. Their communities are well hidden and the homes are made of surrounding vegetation, much like other Ochae’nafod tribes.

Appearance and Garb
The Onca tribe is a tall and sturdy race; males stand an average of 6’ (1.83m) tall and females at 5’7” (1.7m). The have a medium frame, men being well-defined in musculature and women being shapely. Their facial features have subtle traits that are reminiscent of the jaguar’s facial structure. Skin color is typically bronzed, with hair that is the golden red shade of the jaguar’s main coat color, or black if they shape-shift into a melanistic cat (black panther). The black morph of the jaguar is quite common in both the jaguar population and Onca tribe. Eye color is gold.

As a predatory tribe, they typically wear animal skins.

Lifespan and Reproduction
They have the same long lives and reproductive habits of all Ochae’nafod. Like the jaguar, they do not form committed relationships, rather, they are romantically solitary much of the time. When interested in companionship or bearing a child, a partner will be sought out, followed by a brief courtship, and romance that only lasts for a few months. Sometimes individuals seek the same partner out more than once, but they never remain together long. Most females will bear only one or two children throughout their life, though men may father more with multiple partners. Both parents usually participate in rearing the child, but do so while living separately.

Diet, Agriculture, and Hunting
Jaguars are obligate carnivores, meaning they feed entirely on meat. The Onca tribe has a predominantly meat based diet, but in their Nafod form they will supplement with fruits and other plants. They also must cook meat to consume in Nafod form, but can eat it raw in jaguar form.

Magic and Abilities
Like all Ochae’nafod, they have the ability for Life elementalism, as well as the ability to shape-shift to varying degrees into their bonded animal. From their jaguar form, they also inherit a heightened sense of smell and improved night vision.

Personality
Similar to the Pardus tribe; they are internally at odds with the solitary nature of their bonded animal and the gregarious nature of the Nafod. They are a proud and strong people, independent, and confident. They also possess a cunning and sensuality that makes them both frightening and mesmerizing to other peoples.
Last edited by J. M. Vincent on Wed Jun 15, 2011 9:41 pm, edited 2 times in total.
Reason: Completed
World of Aserra

Leo Tribe [African Lion]

Post by World of Aserra » Thu Jun 03, 2010 3:38 pm

Leo Tribe
A tribe of Ochae’nafod bound to the lions (comparable to Panthera leo of the real world) of Ertia.

Location and Settlements
The Leo tribe arranges itself into “prides” of 5-20 individuals that are scattered across the grass and scrublands of Ertia. They make their homes in brush and small stands of trees where their homes seem to blend into the natural flora.

Appearance and Garb
One of the larger Ochae’nafod tribes, Leos stand at 6’2” (1.87m) for males and around 5’11” (1.8m) for females. They have a medium to heavy build and can be moderately muscular. Their skin is well-tanned to bronze, eyes typically gold, but their hair can range from blond to black. Lion males are renowned for their impressive manes, a trait which presents itself in the Leo tribe as men proudly wear their hair grown long, and stylized as a lion’s mane. Women, however, tend to wear their hair in short styles as lionesses do not have manes. Each pride tends to have its own hair traditions for women; some shave their heads completely, some shave most of their heads and leave a top knot, and some others wear short-cropped hair.

As a carnivorous tribe, most of their garb is of animal skins and leather.

Lifespan and Reproduction
They have the same lifespan and breeding periods as all Ochae’nafod. Lions are one of the rare sociable felids, gathering in harem-like prides with one male (occasionally two or more, often brothers), many females, and their offspring. Within in the Leo tribe, polygyny is typical, but not for a single male in the pride. Men may have one to three wives, with whom their affections shift. It is less common for women to take multiple husbands, but it does happen from time to time. One woman typically has one to two children throughout her life.

Diet, Agriculture, and Hunting
A predominantly carnivorous tribe, Leos hunt for large game to be shared amongst the pride. In lion form, they will eat raw meat, but in Nafod form they require it to be cooked. They include a bit of fruits and vegetables in their diet as well, but it is still mainly meat based.

Magic and Abilities
Like all Ochae’nafod they have the healing and life-giving abilities of Life Elementalism, and many varying degrees of shape-shifting. From lions they inherit an enhanced sense of smell and improved night vision.

Personality
Members of the Leo tribe tend to be proud and honorable, almost aloof in their dealings with other races.
Last edited by J. M. Vincent on Tue Jun 14, 2011 6:17 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Reason: Completed
World of Aserra

Lynx Tribe [Eurasian Lynx]

Post by World of Aserra » Tue Sep 14, 2010 12:42 pm

Lynx Tribe
Bound to the lynx (comparable to Lynx lynx in the real world) of northern Kalesten and Thiskel, communities of the Lynx tribe are scattered across both continents, mainly in forested areas.

Location and Settlements
Scattered in forested areas across northern Thiskel and Kalesten, the Lynx tribe make their homes in thickets and densely wooded areas like many other boreal tribes.

Appearance and Garb
Lynx clan members have the definite beauty of the Nafod race with features that are reminiscent of the cats they are bound to. Some individuals, especially amongst the males, may have a tuft of black fur at the tip of their elongated ears like the iconic ears of the lynx. The are on the smaller end of the spectrum of Ochae’nafod, standing at a maximum of 5’6” (1.67m) for men, and around 5’3” (1.6m) for females. They are often lean and well-toned, but not bulky with muscle.

Their skin color is often fair and tans a bit, they also are often freckled, much like their bonded cat is spotted. Hair color covers a rather broad range, from silver, gray, brown, to red, but each community often has a uniform color depending on their region and the colors of lynx in the area. Golden eyes are the norm, other colors are often signs of mixed-race backgrounds.

Like other carnivorous tribes, their favored style of dress is animal skins, modesty dependent on climate. Their favored adornments are often bones, teeth, and antler bits.

Lifespan and Reproduction
They have the same lifespans and breeding periods of other Ochae’nafod, but their relationships are influenced by their bonded cat’s nature. Lynx are solitary animals, and while the Lynx tribe live together in small communities, individuals live on their own, unless with child. Their romances are little more than flings, happening when one individual desires companionship or a child. While children live with their mother, the entire community often plays a role in their upbringing as babysitters, playmates, and mentors for specific skills. Fathers join in this just about as much as any other member of the community.

Diet, Agriculture, and Hunting
Bound to a carnivorous cat, the Lynx tribe are predominantly hunters, and what they don’t hunt, they gather from the forest around them, occasionally cultivating vegetables or bushes and trees that produce fruit where they find them by encouraging their growth with life elementalism, though this is a skill practiced by many other tribes as well. In Nafod form, they prefer to eat their meat cooked, but in Lynx form, they will eat it raw.

Magic and Abilities
Like all Ochae’nafod, they do have the healing and life giving abilities of Life Elementalism, and many varying degrees of shape-shifting. Like many other Ochae’nafod, their sense of smell is enhanced based on the Lynx’s sense of smell.

Personality
Their personality often reflects the solitary lynx; they prefer to hunt on their own and work on their own, but their Nafod nature makes them more sociable than the lynx. They are also often fierce, passionate, and proud.
Last edited by J. M. Vincent on Tue Jun 14, 2011 7:13 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Reason: Revised from Adun to Aserra
World of Aserra

Dra'nafod Tribes

Post by World of Aserra » Fri Oct 29, 2010 12:02 pm

Dra’nafod Tribes
The Dra’nafod are broken up into tribes around the species of tree their ancestors bonded to when Entra first set them into Aserra. Unlike the Ochae’nafod, the trees have little impact on the culture of each tribe, instead it only affects the coloration and transformed appearance of the individuals of each tribe. Tribes will be defined as needed, feel free to make suggestions for tree species in the Nafod discussion topic.

Avium Tribe - Wild Cherry [Prunus avium]
  • Bound to the wild cherry tree, their communities are scattered throughout north Kalesten in forest cherry groves. Hair color ranges through a few shades from deep red to burgundy, like ripe cherries. Their eye color is typically green, like the bright spring leaves, and their skin color begins as a lightly tanned shade that grows darker with age like the wood of the cherry tree. They often incorporate flowers, cherries, and leaves into their adornments, and use cherry wood in parts of their outfits.
Laevis Tribe - White Elm [Ulmus laevis]
  • Bound to the white elm, the Laevis tribe is scattered over much of northern Kalesten and Thiskel. Their hair color ranges through pale whitish-green, mimicking the near-white color of the blossoms. Eye color is violet or burgundy, and skin color is usually fair to light tan. Laevis tribe members often include the blossoms, seedpods, and leaves of their tree into their wardrobe, as well as the wood.
Robur Tribe – Pendunculate (English) Oak [Quercus robur]
  • Bound to the pendunculate oak native to northern Thiskel. Their hair color is typically blonde, with dark green eyes, and fair skin. They often adorn themselves with leaves and acorns from their bonded tree.
Rubrum Tribe – Red Maple [Acer rubrum]
  • Bound to the red maple in northern Kalesten. Red is a strong theme with this tribe, as the red maple’s flowers are red, and the leaves are quick to redden before even autumn. Their hair color is a burgundy shade, as are their eyes, while their skin is a warm fair shade.
Last edited by J. M. Vincent on Fri Mar 09, 2012 12:16 pm, edited 8 times in total.
Reason: Revised from Adun to Aserra
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Discussion for Nafod Races

Post by J. M. Vincent » Sun May 01, 2011 10:07 am

Any questions, comments, or corrections for the Nafod races--including Ochae'nafod, Dra'nafod, and Marfod should be addressed here.

Use this thread to request information for Ochae'nafod or Dra'nafod tribes as well.

Ochae'nafod Clans
There are many potential animals that an Ochae'nafod tribe could be bound to. If there is a particular animal you wish to to use, please suggest it here and I will do a write up for their culture ASAP. There are limitations, however. You can not make a tribe for just any animal; there are limitations based on plausibility, size, and location.
  1. Animals must be within a certain size range; there is only so much the body can be compressed or expanded for shape-shifting. I haven’t entirely determined these ranges, but small rodents (mice, rats, shrews, etc.) and most birds are much too small, and animals like elephants and giraffe are far too large.
  2. No domesticated animals, only wild animals. The Ochae’nafod developed shape-shifting as a defense mechanism ages before humans began to domesticating creatures, and by then, the Ochae’nafod had already solidified into distinct tribes. This means there will be no dog tribe, no domestic cat tribe, nor any livestock tribes.
  3. No fully aquatic animals (fish, whales, porpoises, etc.), and no semi-aquatic oceanic animals (seals, sea birds). I may consider some semi-aquatic freshwater animals (crocodiles, alligators, etc.) but we’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.
  4. The Ochae’nafod tribes are predominantly mammals, but there will be some tribes for larger bird and possibly reptile species.
  5. There is some room to create an original species, but you must also give me a description of the animal for the bestiary before I can create a tribe. Animals must be rather “normal” as well, nothing fantastical like winged tigers or magical wild animals. Any magical creatures (unicorns, dragons, etc.) will not have Ochae’nafod tribes.
  6. When cross-breeding between Ochae’nafod of different tribes occurs, it can mean a number of results. If the two animal species are compatible (like lions and tigers, horses and asses, etc.) the offspring can transform into a hybrid (liger, mule, etc.). If the two animal species are incompatible the offspring may end up being bound to one species or another (random chance) and may have complications with transformation, or they may be completely incapable of shape-shifting.
Dra'nafod Tribes
Dra'nafod can be bound to specific tree species of either deciduous or coniferous variety found only in the northern hemisphere. Their bonded tree species determines some traits of coloration, and they often adorn themselves with flowers, leaves, and seeds of their tree.
World of Aserra

Gulo Tribe [Wolverine]

Post by World of Aserra » Wed May 04, 2011 11:29 am

Gulo Tribe

Bound to wolverines (comparable to Gulo gulo of the real world) found in northern Thiskel, clans of the Gulo tribe are scattered throughout the taiga forests of northern Thiskel.

Location and Settlements
Gulo clans live in small communities in the Ideil mountain range and northernmost coniferous forests throughout northern Thiskel. Like most other Ochae’nafod, their communities are hidden within the forest, using thickets and brambles built around their homes, though they may be more bold in less inhabited parts of their range.

Appearance and Garb
Members of the Gulo clan still claim some of their Nymph-like beauty, combined with subtle features reminiscent of their bonded animal, the wolverine. They are a stout race of Ochae’nafod, standing around 5’5” average for males and 5’3” for females with stocky frames. Males tend to be muscular, while females have curvaceous hourglass figures—both capable of also being a bit plump. Their facial features have a slightly elongated face in profile with a well-defined jaw on a short neck, round cheeks, and strong brow. Their ears are also long and tapered, though perhaps a bit thicker and shorter than other tribes. Hair color is typically brown to black like the coat of a wolverine, sometimes with a blonde or lighter brown forelock. Eye color is commonly dark brown. Their skin is typically quite fair due to the climate, but tans a bit.

Like other carnivorous clans, their garb is mostly animal pelts, skins, and leather, adorned with jewelry and other accessories of bone, teeth, and antler.

Lifespan and Reproduction
They have the same lifespans and breeding periods of other Ochae’nafod but their relationships are influenced by the wolverine’s mating habits. Wolverines spend much of their time as solitary animals, but males will form lifetime relationships with neighboring females that will have them. While they often stick to their own territories for food resources, males will often visit their mates for companionship, breeding, and watching over their offspring. In Gulo tribes, it is common for adults to live in their own homes with their own privacy, while still maintaining a committed relationship with a partner. Men may have one to three “wives”, while the wives remain monogamous to their husband. When a child is born in this union, both parents still maintain their separate living situation with the child staying in the mother’s home, but the father is still readily involved in his child’s life and education.

Diet, Agriculture, and Hunting
Wolverines are predominantly scavengers, but also fierce predators when necessary. The Gulo tribe is a tribe of hunters. They also gather fruits, nuts, fungus, and vegetables from the forest, as well as cultivate existing plants to produce more. In their Nafod form they prefer their meat fresh and cooked and a more rounded diet, but in wolverine form they will eat raw meat and even carrion.

Magic and Abilities
Like all Ochae’nafod they have the healing and life-giving abilities of Life Elementalism, and many varying degrees of shape-shifting. From their bonded animal they have an enhanced sense of smell.

Personality
Wolverines are known for their foul tempers and ferocity, and some of this is carried over into the Gulo tribe. They are typically proud and aggressive. Anyone or anything that may be a threat to a Gulo clan or individual is met with all the rage and danger of a wild wolverine. Gulo tribesmen and women are also quick to fight, even over minor disputes amongst their communities (though these fights are never to the death). Fights within the community are often controlled by rules and a code of honor.
World of Aserra

Felis Tribe [Wildcat]

Post by World of Aserra » Tue Jun 14, 2011 5:19 pm

Felis Tribe
Bound to the wildcats (comparable to Felis silvestris of the real world) of northern Thiskel and Kalesten, their clans are scattered across the wilds where wildcats range.

Location and Abodes
Clans of the Felis tribe can be found in forested regions through northern Thiskel and Kalesten, including Thiskel’s Eldir and Itray Forests, and The Ardir Forest of Kalesten. They live in small communities of 10 to 20 individuals that are usually concealed in thickets and hidden deep in the forest.

Appearance and Garb
Members of the Felis tribe are petite and slender, usually falling between light and medium builds. They stand at an average of 5’2” (1.57m) for males and 4’9” (1.44m) for females. They have subtle feline features to their faces, and eyes with slitted rather than round pupils. Their hair color ranges from shades of blonde to brown, or grey shades, and their eyes can be gold, green, and hazel. Skin color is fair to tanned, depending on their location. Lighter colored hair is common toward the south, while darker hair is more common to the north. These colors resemble the base coat color of their wildcat form.

As a carnivorous clan, their fashion includes leather and skins, but also woven fabrics.

Lifespan and Reproduction
They have the same lifespan and breeding periods as all Ochae’nafod. Wildcats are solitary animals, with males and females coming together mainly to breed. Amongst the Felis tribe, short-lived monogamous relationships are typical. Men and women build a bond that may last a few years or decades, often resulting in a child, but eventually grow weary of each other and lose interest. Most individuals will have one or two children in their lifetime, though men may father more than a single woman will bear.

Diet, Agriculture, and Hunting
The Felis tribe has a varied diet, though felines are more carnivorous than other so-called carnivores. In their wildcat form, they will readily eat small prey like mice and birds, but these small foods are not too appealing in their Nafod form. As Nafod, they will hunt small game like fowl and rabbits that is cooked before consumption, as well as gather fruits, vegetables, fungi, and other foods.

Magic and Abilities
Like all Ochae’nafod, they have the ability for Life elementalism, as well as the ability to shape-shift to varying degrees into their bonded animal. They inherit a heightened sense of smell from wildcats that is far greater than the human sense of smell. Their night vision is also significantly greater than humans’, though during the day their vision is equal, if not slightly impaired. Their hearing is the same as other elemental species.

Personality
They are characteristic of cats; independent, at times feisty and spirited, but also languid and easy-going. Socially, they are amicable with other Nafod and most Idayn, as well as other neighbors, but wary of humans.
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Ochae'nafod Boar Tribe

Post by J. M. Vincent » Wed Jun 15, 2011 11:00 pm

I'm thinking of giving the males small tusks as a permanent feature, but not entirely sure about it.

I'm thinking something like this, but with a short, slightly upturned nose to give a subtle pig-like look: http://houseofresin.17.forumer.com/temp ... 0_9345.jpg

Otherwise pretty faces, since they're nymphy people, of course.
World of Aserra

Sus Tribe [Wild Boar]

Post by World of Aserra » Thu Jun 16, 2011 7:36 pm

Sus Tribe

Bound to the wild boars (comparable to Sus scrofa of the real world) of northern Kalesten and Thiskel.

Location and Abodes
The Sus tribe lives in small clans scattered across forested areas throughout northern Kalesten and Thiskel. Like other Ochae’nafod, their communities are small, numbering between 10-20 individuals, and are hidden deep in the forest, made of natural materials to blend in.

Appearance and Garb
The Sus are an average sized people. Though boars can grow to sizes larger than humans, Sus tribesmen only transform into moderately sized boars. Men stand an average of 5’10” to 6’ (1.78m-1.88m) in height, with women between 5’3” and 5’7” (1.6m-1.7m) and they are of a medium to sometimes heavy build. Facial structure is subtly pig-like, most notably with short, turned up noses being common. Hair colors range between dark grey, black, and shades of brown and auburn, depending on the colors of local boars. The texture of their hair is courser than normal for Nafod or humans, but not as coarse as pig-hair; it tends to bristle outward in a feral look. Their eye color is usually brown, and their skin is fair to lightly tanned.

Clothing is usually rough woven cloth, sometimes leather.

Lifespan and Reproduction
They have the same lifespan and breeding periods as all Ochae’nafod. In nature, female wild boar often form groups called sounders, which include their young, while males are solitary until breeding season—at which point they integrate into sounders, fight for dominance, and the dominant males earn breeding rights with the females. This doesn’t work in the Sus tribe, of course, but there is some influence from boar mating habits. Relationships are not life-long in the Sus tribe, but rather brief affairs lasting until the partners grow weary of each other’s company. They will take different partners throughout their life, sometimes resulting in a child. Sus women will bear one to three children in the course of their lives.

Diet, Agriculture, and Hunting
The wild boar is omnivorous, though when it comes to meat, they are more likely to eat carrion, boars are sometimes known to hunt small animals. The Sus tribe readily hunts for game in their Nafod form, but their diet is also rich in a variety of vegetarian foods.

Magic and Abilities
Like all Ochae’nafod, they have the ability for Life elementalism, as well as the ability to shape-shift to varying degrees into their bonded animal. Their sense of smell is far greater than humans’, but their other senses are on par with humans. They are lovers of food, and their meals are prepared with great care to flavor.

Personality
Boar are known for being dangerous creatures, and the Sus tribe is no exception. They are quick to defend their lands and fierce warriors when need be. Within their communities, however, is a culture rich in sensuality and warmth.
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Re: Ochae'nafod Boar Tribe

Post by J. M. Vincent » Fri Jun 17, 2011 9:53 am

Looks like a NO! :P
World of Aserra

Eunectes Tribe [Green Anaconda]

Post by World of Aserra » Mon Jun 20, 2011 12:08 pm

Eunectes Tribe
A tribe bound to the largest species of anaconda (comparable to Eunectes murinus of the real world) in the rain forests and tropical grasslands of southern Kalesten.

Location and Abodes
The Eunectes tribe is scattered throughout the tropical grasslands and rain forests of southern Kalesten, typically near rivers, swamps, and other bodies of water. They live in villages of 10-15 individuals, hidden in villages made of the surrounding flora.

Appearance and Garb
Tall and slender, males stand an average of 6’1” (1.85m) and females at 5’10” (1.77m) with a light frame, svelte and sinuous. Their facial structure is subtly snake-like, with a high hairline, small, flat nose, and an elongated almond eye shape. Their hair is markedly thin, and rarely grown long, but is a strange greenish-black shade. They eyes are dark gray-green, resembling the eyes of their bonded snake. Skin color is commonly bronzed tan.

Their clothing is typically leather, sometimes woven fabrics.

Lifespan and Reproduction
They have the same lifespan and breeding periods as all Ochae’nafod. In nature, anaconda are not a romantic creature, usually solitary and only coming together to mate. In the Eunectes tribe, relationships are brief affairs for sexual gratification or with the intent to bear a child. While their affairs are powerful, sensual, and quite lustful, love is an alien concept.

Their snake nature is at a conflict with child rearing. Anaconda give live birth and leave their offspring to fend for themselves, but Nafod children require more care. The entire village is often involved in the raising of children, whom are forced to mature quickly and considered adults socially in their teenage years. Women typically bear only one child throughout their lives. Mothers are involved in the majority of care for their child, while the father is involved no more than the rest of the village—though he may have a special kinship with his child.

Diet, Agriculture, and Hunting
A carnivorous clan that supplements a diet of wild game with fruits, vegetables, and other vegetarian foods. In their snake form, they can swallow prey whole, but in Nafod form they must cook their meat.

Magic and Abilities
Like all Ochae’nafod, they have the ability for Life elementalism, as well as the ability to shape-shift to varying degrees into their bonded animal. Their sense of smell and taste are linked, and quite powerful. They also can shift between normal Nafod vision and infrared vision.

Personality
Cold, efficient, and anti-social with many other races. They do have a sensual side, however.
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