Ancestries

Dwarves are a people forged in stone and tempered by centuries of tradition. Revered across Alana for their masterful craftsmanship and indomitable strength, they are both artisans and warriors, builders and battlers. The warhammer is their weapon of choice - heavy, resolute, and devastating - a fitting symbol of their might and resilience. With hands skilled by generations of forging flame and steel, dwarves craft their own arms and armour, each piece a blend of artistry and durability. No blade leaves their forge unfinished, no plate untested. To wear dwarven gear is to carry a legacy.   Beneath the mountains and into the deep, the dwarves thrive where others falter. They move through winding tunnels and cavernous halls with instinctual ease, uncovering veins of ore, hidden chambers, and long-lost relics buried in the bones of the world. Their affinity with stone is unmatched - they shape the earth into fortresses, halls, and intricate machines with a precision that borders on magical. Yet for all their strengths, dwarves are creatures of custom and memory. Bound tightly to the ways of their ancestors, they often view change with suspicion and cling to the old paths even when the world shifts around them.

Graceful, long-lived, and touched by ancient magic, elves - move through the world like living echoes of something once divine. Exiles of Mag Mell, the lost realm of the fae, they carry the weight of their old world upon their shoulders, veiled in beauty, mystery, and a quiet ache for what was left behind. Their favoured weapon is the longbow - elegant, precise, and deadly in skilled hands. It mirrors their own nature: swift, refined, and unerringly effective. In forests and glades, elves are at home - eyes sharp, steps silent, arrows flying like whispers through the wind.   Though centuries have passed since their exile, the world beyond Mag Mell still feels foreign to many elves. Their once-vast powers have waned, dimmed like stars fading with the dawn. Yet pride endures. They weave illusions of superiority, masking what they’ve lost beneath layers of grace and confidence, always insisting they remain “special,” even as time and truth wear away at the illusion.   Blessed - or burdened - with lifespans that stretch far beyond those of other folk, elves gather wisdom like moss on stone. But with such longevity comes distance. They observe more than they engage, and though they may offer insight or counsel, they often seem aloof - detached from the urgency and passion of shorter-lived kin. The depth of their years can become a wall, soft and beautiful, yet difficult to cross.

Gnomes are celebrated for their boundless creativity and insatiable curiosity, traits that shape every aspect of their lives. Though not inclined toward direct combat, they rely on cleverness and cunning to outwit their foes. Rather than traditional weapons, gnomes favour ingenious devices and nimble tools designed to surprise, confuse, or disable. These contraptions are often as unpredictable as they are effective. With a natural talent for invention, gnomes excel at building intricate mechanisms that serve both practical and unexpected purposes. Whether it's a device that disarms traps, a pocket-sized engine of chaos, or a tool that shifts the tide of a skirmish, their creations reflect a deep understanding of how things work - and how to make them work differently.   However, their brilliance comes with a drawback. Gnomes are easily swept up in the excitement of their own ideas, often losing sight of their surroundings or neglecting urgent matters. This tendency to become absorbed in invention can lead to moments of poor timing or frustration among their companions. Even so, in the hands of a gnome, even the most unlikely object might become the key to solving a problem no one else saw coming.

Goblins are creatures of mischief and mayhem, known as much for their cunning as for the chaos they leave in their wake. On the battlefield, they favour whatever weapons they can get their hands on - rusty blades, splintered clubs, or haphazard explosives cobbled together from whatever’s lying around. Their gear may look like junk, but in goblin hands, it becomes unpredictably effective.   What truly sets goblins apart is their daring spirit and resourcefulness. They see opportunity in every scrap and scheme, turning the battlefield itself into a weapon. Quick on their feet and hard to pin down, goblins dart through the fray with surprising precision, striking from unexpected angles and vanishing just as fast.   Their greatest strength is also their greatest weakness. Goblins thrive in chaos but rarely show restraint. They act on impulse, often charging headlong into danger or cooking up half-baked plans that backfire in spectacular fashion. This recklessness can put both themselves and their companions in trouble, especially when subtlety or discipline is required. Still, for all their flaws, goblins are survivors - wily, inventive, and always a step away from turning disaster into opportunity.

The Hathi are an ancient and dignified race of elephantine humanoids, revered for their towering presence, quiet strength, and deep-rooted harmony with the natural world. With thick grey skin, sweeping trunks, and wise, gentle eyes, they carry an air of timeless patience and profound understanding. Their culture is built upon a foundation of spiritual reverence for life and the land. The Hathi see themselves not as masters of nature, but as its guardians and students. Despite their formidable size, they are a peaceful people, known more for their intellect and insight than for displays of force.   Many Hathi dedicate their lives to the pursuit of knowledge - as scholars, researchers, and lorekeepers - preserving the histories of Alana and uncovering the deeper truths hidden within its ecosystems and ancient ruins. Their counsel is often sought in times of conflict, as they are renowned for their wisdom, impartiality, and gift for mediation.

Humans are among the most widespread and adaptable peoples of Alana, defined not by a singular trait, but by their remarkable capacity for change. Though lacking the inherent gifts of other races - no wings, tusks, or ancient magic in their blood - they possess an indomitable spirit, an endless drive to shape the world around them. Where others root themselves in tradition or nature, humans press forward, building, exploring, and redefining what is possible. Their appearances vary greatly across regions, shaped by climate, culture, and history. Human societies range from bustling cities of stone and steel to humble villages nestled in the wilds. Their ambition fuels great kingdoms, revolutionary inventions, and art that stirs the soul. But this same ambition can lead to conflict, conquest, and hubris.   What makes humans truly distinct is their boundless potential. Warriors, poets, engineers, diplomats - they walk every path, often excelling not because of inherent talent, but through sheer determination and adaptability. They form unlikely alliances, push into uncharted lands, and often become the catalyst for sweeping change across Alana. Yet their greatest strength is also their most dangerous trait: a restless nature that drives them to seek more - more knowledge, more power, more meaning - sometimes at any cost.

TODO

The Turtlefolk, also known Kachhua, are a slow-moving but incredibly resilient species in Alana. These humanoid reptilians have distinct turtle-like characteristics, including a tough, scaly shell that serves as natural armor. Their skin can vary in shades of green, brown, or even sandy colors, blending in with their environment. Turtlefolk are known for their patience, wisdom, and strong connection to nature. They live in harmony with aquatic environments, often residing in coastal villages or swampy regions. Their slow-paced lifestyle allows them to appreciate the subtle wonders of the natural world. In combat, Turtlefolk can use their natural toughness to their advantage, making them formidable defenders. They have a deep affinity for water-based magic and are skilled swimmers. While not as agile as some other races, their unwavering determination and sturdy constitution make them trusted allies in the face of adversity.

Halflings, affectionately known as Kendric, are a small and nimble race. Standing at just about three feet tall, they possess an endearing charm and a natural talent for stealth and cunning. With round faces, expressive eyes, and curly hair, Kendric exude an aura of mischievousness that often belies their good-natured intentions. Kendric are renowned for their quick wit and their love of a simple, carefree life. They live in close-knit communities, often nestled in rolling hills or hidden villages. Their natural curiosity and agility make them exceptional at sleight of hand, allowing them to "borrow" items from other people without them even noticing. Despite their light-hearted demeanor, Kendric are fiercely protective of their kin and are not to be underestimated in battle. They use their small stature to their advantage, darting in and out of combat to deliver precise strikes. Their love of exploration and collecting unique trinkets often leads them to embark on exciting adventures, whether it's uncovering hidden treasures or outwitting larger adversaries.

Kobolds are small, reptilian humanoids, rarely standing taller than three feet, but what they lack in size, they more than make up for in wit and tenacity. With scaly hides, gleaming eyes, and sharp little teeth, kobolds thrive in the dark, winding places beneath the world - tunnels, caverns, and long-forgotten ruins. Naturally clever and industrious, kobolds are masters of survival. They build intricate tunnel networks, craft devious traps, and mine with remarkable efficiency. Though often underestimated, they possess a remarkable knack for working together, forming tight-knit clans bound by loyalty and purpose. To face a kobold is to face not just a single creature, but a labyrinth of schemes, pitfalls, and allies lurking in the shadows.

The Kookoo, also known as the Owlfolk, are a mysterious race with both human and owl-like features. They have feathered wings, large expressive eyes, and plumage usually in natural tones like brown, grey, and white - similar to owls found in the wild. Their appearance gives them an air of quiet intelligence and natural camouflage in forested environments.   Rather than building cities of stone, the Kookoo make their homes in the treetops, creating villages out of branches, leaves, and subtle enchantments. These settlements are well hidden and difficult to spot without a trained eye. The Kookoo have a strong connection to magic, particularly nature-based spells and divination. Their magic often reflects their surroundings - subtle, intuitive, and tied to the natural world.   They are quiet by nature, often serving as scouts or protectors of the forests they inhabit. Their ability to fly silently and observe from above makes them excellent lookouts. Despite their calm and reserved demeanor, the Kookoo have a playful side. They enjoy riddles, stories, and clever wordplay, and their communities are often filled with shared laughter and light-hearted traditions.

The Ravenfolk, known as Koraki, are a mysterious and elegant avian race native who have lost their ability to fly. Resembling humanoid ravens, they have sleek, jet-black feathers, sharp beaks, and keen, intelligent eyes. Their short wings are adorned with intricate patterns that shimmer like starlit constellations. Koraki are known for their deep connection to the night and the mysteries of the cosmos. They inhabit shadowy forest enclaves and mountaintop eyries, often perched in places that allow them to study the stars and the moon. The Koraki possess innate magical abilities related to divination, illusion, and celestial knowledge. These enigmatic beings are often regarded as scholars and keepers of ancient wisdom. They are skilled in the art of prophecy and use their mystical gifts to guide their communities and allies. Despite their somber and contemplative demeanor, Koraki have a profound respect for the balance of nature and the interconnectedness of all living things in Alana's mystical world.

The Shroomfolk, known as Manitari, are a fascinating and earthy race within the medieval fantasy world of Alana. These sentient, mushroom-like beings have a unique appearance, with bodies resembling oversized mushrooms. They vary in size, with some Manitari standing as tall as a human while others are much smaller. Manitari are deeply intertwined with the natural world, often inhabiting the hidden depths of dense forests and ancient groves. Their bodies are adorned with intricate, bioluminescent patterns that glow softly in the dark, casting an otherworldly aura. Manitari have an innate connection to the earth and are skilled in earth-based magic, including plant manipulation and elemental spells. As stewards of the forest, Manitari play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of their natural surroundings. They are knowledgeable herbalists and are adept at using the unique properties of fungi for both healing and magical purposes. With their serene wisdom and deep-rooted connection to the land, Manitari enrich the medieval fantasy world of Alana with a sense of mysticism and natural wonder.

The Frogfolk, known as Mendhak, are a lively and amphibious race inhabiting Alana. These anthropomorphic frogs exhibit a fascinating mix of frog-like and humanoid features. Their skin ranges from vibrant shades of green to mottled patterns, blending seamlessly with the lush landscapes they call home. The Mendhak are closely connected to Alana's waterways, residing in reedy swamps, tranquil ponds, and secluded marshlands. Their long, agile legs and webbed fingers make them exceptional swimmers and agile jumpers. Mendhak have a deep affinity for nature and elemental magic, particularly water-based spells and nature manipulation. Renowned for their harmonious existence with the environment, Mendhak are skilled herbalists, healers, and caretakers of the marshlands they inhabit. They possess a keen understanding of the delicate balance of ecosystems and often serve as guardians of the natural world. With their vibrant culture and playful spirit, the Mendhak add a touch of whimsy and natural wonder to Alana.

The Cowfolk, often referred to as Minotaurs, are a formidable and imposing species in Alana. Towering over most other beings, they possess the imposing stature of humans combined with the powerful, bovine features of bulls. Covered in dense, shaggy fur ranging from deep brown to black, Minotaurs exude an air of raw strength and primal vitality. Minotaurs have a long and storied history in Alana, often inhabiting rugged mountain ranges and expansive grasslands. Their immense frames, bull-like horns, and cloven hooves make them naturally suited to a life of endurance and resilience. They are renowned warriors, known for their unparalleled combat skills and steadfast courage on the battlefield. Despite their formidable appearance, Minotaurs are a proud and honorable species with rich traditions of storytelling and shamanic practices. They revere nature and the spirits of the land, often acting as protectors of ancient ruins and sacred sites. In the medieval fantasy world of Alana, the presence of Minotaurs adds an element of strength and valor to the diverse tapestry of its inhabitants.

The duckfolk, known as Papia, are a cheerful and water-loving species. These avian beings possess a unique charm, combining human-like features with the endearing appearance of ducks. Papia stand at an average height, with plump, feathered bodies adorned in various shades of vibrant and mottled feathers. Papia are closely tied to the aquatic realms of Alana, often making their homes along the picturesque banks of rivers, serene lakeshores, and tranquil ponds. Their webbed feet and dexterous hands allow them to navigate both land and water with ease, making them skilled fishermen, swimmers, and boat builders. Known for their jovial nature and love of festivities, Papia are celebrated for their musical talents and culinary skills. They often host lively gatherings, sharing delicious feasts and catchy melodies with their friends and neighbors. The Papia bring a sense of lightheartedness and community to the diverse mosaic of its inhabitants.

The Phurr, known for their feline grace and instincts, have a natural affinity for agility and close-quarters combat. Their preferred weapon is often the nimble and versatile clawed gauntlet, allowing them to channel their primal instincts into swift and deadly strikes. Catfolk possess a unique talent for enhanced senses, including exceptional night vision, acute hearing, and heightened reflexes, making them formidable hunters and skilled trackers. However, their flaw lies in their sometimes unpredictable and independent nature. Catfolk can be fiercely individualistic, often prioritizing personal interests over group dynamics.

Orcs are a robust and formidable humanoid species known for their physical prowess and warrior culture. They typically have greenish or grayish skin, pronounced tusks, and a strong build. Rukha society values strength, honor, and unity among their tribes.

Lionkin, or Sinh, are a humanoid species known for their feline characteristics, resembling lions. They possess a strong, regal presence with golden fur, manes, and sharp claws. Lionkin often exhibit noble traits and a sense of pride in their heritage.

The Titanforged are ancient, sentient constructs created by the dwarves. They are typically humanoid automatons made of enchanted materials like stone, metal, or crystal.

Goliaths are massive humanoid beings known for their imposing size, impressive physical prowess, and rugged appearance. They typically hail from high mountainous regions and are renowned for their endurance and adaptability to harsh environments.

Rabbitfolk, or Wibbit, are a peaceful and agile humanoid species with distinct rabbit-like features. They have long ears, soft fur, and keen senses. Wibbit society values community and cooperation, often living in close-knit warrens.

Changelings are known for their incredible shape-shifting abilities. In a matter of minutes, they can transform their appearance, changing everything from their physical features to their gender and even adopting the appearance of different ancestries. However, these skilled metamorphs cannot change their fundamental attributes. Additionally, changelings can only shift their size by a single step (e.g., from normal to small), maintaining a certain level of consistency even in their remarkable transformations. Changelings possess a unique talent for deception and infiltration, seamlessly blending into different roles and assuming new identities. However, this talent comes with a significant flaw - their struggle to maintain a strong sense of self. The constant need to change and hide their true nature can lead to feelings of detachment and difficulty forming genuine connections.

-

-

Deep within the green heart of the world dwell the Plantfolk - mysterious, ancient, and wondrously alive. Neither wholly plant nor wholly creature, they are nature given thought and breath, beings born of root and soul. Some stand tall as trees, bark-bound and moss-crowned, with limbs like twisted branches and eyes that glimmer with the memory of ages. Others bloom with the grace of flowers, their delicate frames wreathed in petals and trailing vines that shimmer in the wind’s caress. Then there are those who slink through the underbrush - vine-wrapped, nimble, and quiet as ivy creeping along stone.   Bound by a sacred bond to the land of Alana, the Plantfolk speak the silent language of leaf and root. They call to the forest, coax seeds to life, and wield the primal forces of earth and wood with gentle strength. Hidden groves, sun-dappled clearings, and deep, forgotten woods are their sanctuaries - places where the heartbeat of nature is strongest.

-

-

The Birdfolk - swift, feathered denizens of the skies - are creatures of elegance and instinctive grace. With wings outstretched and eyes sharp as a falcon’s, they dance upon the wind, masters of the air and keen hunters from above. Favouring the bow, they strike from the heavens with uncanny precision, each arrow guided by sight honed across endless horizons.   Their greatest strength lies in motion - diving, weaving, soaring - each movement a blur of feathers and force. In open skies and wide fields, few can match their speed or strike as swiftly. But this freedom comes at a cost.   Grounded, they falter. Enclosed spaces and tight corridors turn their wings into burdens, their agility into constraint. Stripped of the sky, their prowess wanes, and their dependence on flight becomes their greatest vulnerability.

The Lizardfolk are creatures born of sun-scorched stone and shadowed swamp. With sinewy limbs and eyes like molten gold, they walk the line between beast and warrior, ancient instincts guiding every move. Their weapons are as practical as they are brutal: heavy clubs hewn from bone and stone, or spears hardened in fire, wielded with a strength that strikes swift and sure.   Adaptation is their gift. Whether trudging through marshland, slipping beneath murky waters, or braving the burning sands, the Lizardfolk thrive where others falter. Their bodies endure, their senses sharpen in wild places where survival is the only law.   Yet beneath their rugged exterior lies a mind shaped not by emotion, but by necessity. The subtle dance of feelings, the delicate web of social nuance - these things elude them. To the Lizardfolk, sentiment is a strange and slippery thing, often met with confusion or disregard. They act with cold logic, favouring what is effective over what is kind.   This detachment can create distance, even conflict, with more expressive folk. But make no mistake - the Lizardfolk are not heartless. They are steady, loyal, and unflinching, and in the crucible of hardship, they stand like stone - enduring, unyielding, and utterly themselves.

-

The Descended - children of starlight and sky - walk the world of Alana with a quiet radiance, their very presence a whisper of the heavens. Born of celestial lineage, they carry the glow of distant realms within them, their souls alight with purpose and divine grace. Many among them favour the longbow - elegant, swift, and precise - a fitting weapon for those who strike with clarity from afar.   Their gifts are not merely martial. The Descended wield sacred power drawn from their otherworldly blood - healing the wounded with a touch, conjuring radiant energy to banish darkness, and sensing the presence of evil like a chill in the wind. They are beacons in the shadows, guardians of virtue, and vessels of the divine. Yet such brilliance is not without its burden.   Touched by higher forces, the Descended often wrestle with the weight of expectation - to be flawless, to lead, to shine always. In quiet moments, they may feel adrift, torn between the will of the heavens and the call of their own hearts. The struggle to forge a personal path amidst the echo of prophecy is their quiet trial - one not of blade or spell, but of spirit.

-

Dragonkin possess a draconic bloodline and scaled physique. Their favorite weapon often reflects their innate connection to their draconic ancestry, with many dragonkin favoring the use of mighty two-handed weapons such as greatswords or polearms, channeling their inner strength and unleashing devastating strikes upon their foes. Dragonkin possess a unique talent for harnessing elemental breath, allowing them to unleash powerful bursts of fire, lightning, or other elements upon their enemies. Their flaw lies in their intense pride and sometimes volatile temperament. The dragonkin's pride can lead them to be stubborn and reluctant to back down, even in situations where discretion may be the wiser choice. It takes a skilled ally to navigate the delicate balance of their fiery nature and utilize their powerful potential to the fullest

-

Within the mystical realm of Alana, the serpentfolk stand as a mysterious and malevolent species, shrouded in shadows and steeped in ancient secrets. These beings, with serpentine features and mesmerizing eyes, evoke both fear and fascination in those who encounter them.   Serpentfolk are notorious for their sinister practices and dark sorceries. Their lithe, sinuous bodies are adorned with scales of varying colors, often blending seamlessly with their surroundings. They are agile and cunning, making them adept predators and skilled infiltrators.   Driven by a mysterious and ominous agenda, serpentfolk are known to dwell in hidden underground lairs, forsaken temples, and forgotten catacombs. They are masters of venomous magic, wielding powers that can mesmerize, poison, or manipulate the minds of others.   In Alana, the serpentfolk's presence adds an element of treacherous intrigue and an ever-present sense of danger. Their motives are obscured, and their dark machinations threaten the peace and harmony of the world, making them both formidable adversaries and intriguing adversaries to those who seek to uncover their mysteries.

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

In the shadow-drenched corners of Alana, beneath the gaze of a waning moon, the vampires stir - creatures of haunting beauty and eternal hunger. They are not born, but made - a dark fate bestowed by the venomous kiss of another, transforming the living into something cold, immortal, and forever altered. Once mortal, the bitten undergo a chilling rebirth. Their skin pales to the colour of bone, their eyes burn with a crimson glint, and their fangs, like ivory daggers, mark them as predators. With unearthly strength and unnatural grace, they move like whispers through the night, defying death with every silent breath. But this immortality comes at a terrible cost.   Cursed with a relentless thirst for blood, vampires must feed upon the life force of others to sustain their twisted existence. Few can resist their hypnotic charm - a beguiling blend of elegance and menace - used to lure the unwary into their fatal embrace. Their legend is carved in fear. They haunt forgotten crypts, ruined castles, and subterranean lairs (at least this is the general belief), emerging only when the sun has fled. Their presence casts a long, uneasy shadow, where trust is brittle and every fleeting romance may end in ruin.

Amidst the mystical realms of Alana, the were-creatures are a unique species marked by their dual nature, as they are born of both mortal and supernatural lineage. This extraordinary species can be found among many species in Alana, for the curse of lycanthropy knows almost no bounds.   Were-creatures are beings who possess the ability to transform between their natural form and that of a fearsome beast. These transformations are often triggered by external factors such as the full moon, strong emotions, or even the consumption of certain elixirs. In their beastly form, were-creatures exhibit heightened physical prowess, enhanced senses, and formidable strength.   Each were-creature is linked to a specific animal, such as wolves, bears, or big cats, and their transformation mirrors the traits and abilities of their chosen creature. In Alana, were-creatures are both feared and revered. Some embrace their dual nature, using their abilities to protect their homeland and kin, while others grapple with the curse's dark side, struggling to maintain their humanity.   The presence of were-creatures adds an element of mystery and unpredictability to Alana's tapestry of species, where heroes and adventurers must navigate the ever-present possibility of encountering these shape-shifting beings, who are as much a part of the world's rich history as any other species.