Beastkin

Beastkin are diverse humanoids with distinctive animal features, created through a process of hyper-evolution induced by the Builders' nanites. They possess remarkable intelligence, language capabilities, and strong community bonds. Proud and independent, Beastkin value family and friendship, demonstrating a peaceful nature while remaining formidable when defending their own.

Origins

Beastkin emerged when the enigmatic Builders introduced nanites to catalyze evolution on Solaris. These microscopic machines transformed ordinary animals into sentient beings with humanoid characteristics while preserving aspects of their ancestral species. Initially concentrated in the Dormuzahn Isles, Beastkin communities spread across Solaris after the cataclysmic events that drove General Dorn and his followers from their homeland. Today, many Beastkin find sanctuary in Thunderwing Stronghold in the Skyhold Mountains, where Lord Kelthuron's protection allows their culture to flourish.

Nano-Adaptation

Beastkin possess an innate adaptability due to their nanite-infused biology. They can temporarily adjust their physiology to better suit their environment, gaining advantages like enhanced night vision in darkness, heightened smell for tracking, or increased endurance in harsh conditions. This adaptive nature makes them exceptionally versatile explorers and survivors, particularly in the volatile regions of Lunaris' Crimson Wilds.

Pack Mentality

Working with trusted allies enhances Beastkin strength, speed, and coordination through a deep-rooted connection to community. This collective synergy manifests as increased morale, remarkable pain tolerance, and the ability to share sensory information during cooperative efforts. This pack mentality makes Beastkin particularly effective in coordinated hunting parties and organized military units like the Pathfinders on Lunaris.

Primal Instinct

Thanks to their animalistic heritage and nanite enhancements, Beastkin can tap into a primal instinct that grants them bursts of extraordinary power. This manifests as sudden surges of strength, heightened reflexes, or momentary healing capabilities. While tremendously advantageous in dangerous situations, overusing this instinct leaves Beastkin fatigued, requiring them to carefully choose when to embrace their primal nature.

Regions & Relations

Beastkin communities are scattered across Solaris, with significant populations in Thunderwing Stronghold in the Skyhold Mountains and Explorer's Landing on Lunaris. Some tribes remain in the Dormuzahn Isles, though their numbers dwindled following the exodus led by General Dorn. Beastkin maintain strong alliances with Dragonkin and Grovekin, sharing a respect for natural spaces. Their relationship with Mechanoids is complex but generally positive, especially with those created by Krauser Killener, whom many Beastkin view as a protector of their kind.

Class Affinities

Beastkin excel as Hunters, their natural affinity with animals creating powerful bonds with animal companions and their heightened senses making them exceptional trackers across Solaris' diverse terrains. Many Beastkin with physical prowess become Warriors, channeling their primal strength and instincts into devastating combat techniques. Those who embrace their nanite-enhanced adaptability often pursue the path of the Knight, using their resilience and protective instincts to shield allies. Beastkin rarely pursue magical disciplines, though those with particular affinity for nature sometimes become Mages specializing in natural forces.

Magical Affinities

Nature magic resonates strongly with Beastkin, allowing them to communicate with wildlife and channel the living essence that flows through Solaris' ecosystems. Many also develop affinity for Air magic, enhancing their tracking and movement capabilities. Those descended from predatory species often manifest Shadow magic talents, particularly for stealth and concealment. Beastkin with unusual connections to their nanite origins occasionally develop affinity for Ciedium magic, though this is rare and often manifests in unpredictable ways.

Professional Pursuits

Beastkin naturally gravitate toward trades that allow them to utilize their connection to nature and heightened senses. Many become Explorers, mapping the unknown regions of Solaris and documenting wildlife with unparalleled accuracy. Their understanding of animal behavior makes them exceptional Hunters who respect the balance of the natural world. Some Beastkin develop careers as Crafters, creating functional items from natural materials with remarkable durability. Those who join the Pathfinders often become Engineers, developing specialized tools and traps adapted to the specific challenges of Lunaris' harsh environment or the dangerous terrain of Gorgonia.