Umbraen (oom-BRAY-en)

Umbraen inherit their glowing patterns from their parents, but the designs and colors are unique to each individual, akin to fingerprints. This trait is passed down through a mystical connection to the moons of Tanaria. Umbraen mate for life, and their young are born in litters of one to three. The offspring are born with faint markings that grow more prominent as they age and develop their magical abilities.

Umbraen thrive in dark forests, mountain caves, and moonlit valleys. They prefer areas with little sunlight and are often found near ancient ruins or places where shadow magic is strong. Carnivorous, Umbraen hunt small to medium-sized creatures. They are stealthy hunters, often using their ability to blend into the shadows to stalk prey.

The Umbraen primarily feed on small to medium-sized animals, such as deer, rabbits, and other forest-dwelling creatures. Their carnivorous diet reflects their role as predators in the shadowy regions they inhabit.   Umbraen are stealthy and patient hunters. They use their ability to hide their glowing rosettes, rendering themselves nearly invisible in the dark, to stalk their prey. They rely on their exceptional night vision, acute hearing, and ability to blend into the shadows to get close to their prey undetected. Once they are within striking distance, they pounce with incredible speed and precision. They prefer to hunt during the night, using the cover of darkness to their advantage. Their glowing eyes and rosettes may flare up momentarily when they attack, startling their prey. With retractable claws and a lithe body, they move silently through their environments, making almost no sound until the moment they strike.   They are territorial when it comes to food, protecting their hunting grounds from other predators and even from other Umbraen. Though they may share food with mates or their offspring, outsiders are typically unwelcome. After a successful hunt, Umbraen often drag their prey to secluded areas where they can feed in safety. Some may stash extra food in crevices or underground dens if they anticipate times of scarcity.

Active during the night, the Umbraen rest during the day in dens or caves. They are most powerful during full moons or when both moons (Callistra and Umbriel) are visible in the night sky.

Umbraen are typically solitary creatures, preferring to live and hunt alone. They establish large territories that they patrol regularly, and while they may cross paths with others of their kind, they rarely form long-lasting social bonds outside of mating or parent-offspring relationships. Umbraen are fiercely protective of their territories, which are large enough to provide ample food and resources. They use scent marking and occasional vocalizations to establish boundaries. Encounters between Umbraen outside of mating season are rare, and when they do occur, they can lead to displays of dominance or even aggressive confrontations.   During mating season, males and females may form temporary bonds, and both parents are involved in raising their young. These bonds are based on mutual respect, and both the male and female play active roles in teaching their offspring hunting skills.   Due to their size, agility, and intelligence, Umbraen have few natural predators. However, they remain cautious around larger or more powerful creatures such as dragons or other apex predators in their environment. If threatened, an Umbraen will use its ability to blend into the shadows, rendering itself nearly invisible. It can vanish from sight by hiding its glowing rosettes and retreating into the darkest parts of its territory. This stealthy evasion is their primary defense mechanism. When cornered or if its offspring are threatened, an Umbraen will fight with swift, ferocious strikes. Their sharp claws and powerful limbs make them formidable in direct confrontations.   Umbraen are highly intelligent creatures, capable of complex problem-solving. They exhibit curiosity about their surroundings and are known to study new phenomena or intruders with caution. Their intelligence makes them formidable hunters and survivors. While they don't actively seek to harm other creatures, they are quick to respond to threats and will maintain their territory with precision. When bonded with a companion or offspring, they are highly protective, exhibiting deep loyalty. This bond is rare, but when formed, it is unbreakable.

Though primarily solitary creatures, Umbraen are known to form close bonds with individuals or small groups of their kind. They are highly intelligent and can communicate telepathically with those they trust. In some cultures, particularly in moon-worshiping or night-based societies, Umbraen are seen as emissaries of the night gods or protectors of travelers. Temples often have statues of Umbraen, and offerings are made to honor them during full moons. Some magical societies form lifelong pacts with Umbraen, believing that they act as protectors and guides through dangerous, shadowy realms. These creatures are deeply loyal to those they bond with and can live alongside humans or other sentient races.

The Umbraen have a distinctly feline face with sharp, angular features. Their eyes are large and almond-shaped, glowing softly in the dark with hues of violet, gold, or blue. Their ears are large and expressive, giving them an acute sense of hearing. Their noses are small and sleek, with short whiskers that help them detect subtle changes in their environment. Their sharp fangs are visible when they bare their teeth, often glowing faintly in the moonlight.

The Umbraen are found in shadowy, secluded environments across Tanaria, favoring dense forests, mountain caves, and hidden valleys. They thrive in areas where the night is long and shadows are plentiful. Their populations are most concentrated in regions with mystical connections to shadow or moonlight, often near ancient ruins or sacred sites. They are elusive and prefer environments where they can blend seamlessly into the surroundings.

The Umbraen are highly intelligent creatures, on par with sentient beings like humans and elves. Their intelligence is evidenced by their ability to understand complex commands, use basic tools, and communicate telepathically with trusted companions. They are also known for their problem-solving skills and tactical awareness during hunts or combat.

Umbraen possess exceptional night vision, allowing them to see clearly in complete darkness. They can sense disturbances in shadow magic, often detecting approaching threats by how shadows shift or behave unnaturally. Umbraen can see the magical auras of other creatures, particularly those aligned with the night or darkness. This makes them valuable companions for spellcasters.

Umbraen are often associated with night-blooming plants that thrive in magical environments. These plants are said to grow more vibrantly in the presence of Umbraen and may provide them with healing properties.   Shadow-wraiths and dark spirits are natural enemies of the Umbraen, seeking to feed on their magical energy. Umbraen are frequently found protecting sacred areas from such parasitic entities.

The Umbraen were brought into existence by Umbra, the enigmatic Shadowed God of Knowledge and Consequences. According to ancient legends, Umbra shaped the Umbraen from the very essence of shadows, imbuing them with his wisdom and the ability to navigate the delicate balance between knowledge and the inevitable consequences that follow. The Umbraen serve as both guardians and symbols of this balance, protecting ancient secrets and ensuring that those who seek forbidden knowledge understand the consequences of their actions. It is said that Umbra created the Umbraen to act as silent watchers, guiding those who stray too far into the unknown and ensuring that the natural order of Tanaria is preserved. Their glowing rosettes are believed to represent the light of understanding breaking through the darkness of ignorance, while their ability to disappear into the shadows is a reminder of the hidden dangers that lie in the pursuit of unchecked power.   The Umbraen are revered by scholars, mages, and those who walk the delicate path between knowledge and caution. Many believe that seeing an Umbraen is a sign that they are on the verge of a revelation, but also a warning that great responsibility comes with the truth they seek.