Magimal

Magimals usually look like their fellow animal species, except most have brighter coloration. Their fur and skin may be a distinct hue that sets them apart, or completely different colors unnatural to typical animals, like blue, pink, and green.

In regards to mobility, some have been known to grow extra limbs, dragon-like wings, full hand dexterity, and the ability to walk upright or float and propel themselves above the ground. These developments have led to increased speed, flying, and climbing abilities.

The growth of increased natural armor or armor not found in others of their species is possible. Spikes or plates on the body, and protruding bone growth along the spinal column have occurred in some.

All species appear to reproduce in their usual manner. Very little change in the gestation period has been recorded. The chance for a Magimal to produce at least some Magimal offspring is much higher.

Once born, Magimals will sometimes mature faster or slower than the rest of their brood. If one has not already developed extra limbs in the womb, this is when they will start to develop, spurred on by the increased flow of magick through their infant bodies. This is also when a minority will develop noticeable changes such as radical hair and skin pigment alteration, growth of armored protrusions, or the transformation to a lengthened, fluffier, or more ornate tail. These are typical signs of a higher degree of magickal ability.

Magimals inherit the same needs and habits as their individual species, but some have been known to adopt Tala'man eating habits, such as lounging lazily while snacking. They also exhibit the ability to eat and digest a wider range of food and drink than their non magick-endowed kin, which has resulted in a great many indulging in Tala'man-crafted food and drink, even while seated properly inside of dining establishments.

When not enjoying Tala'man society though, they chew plants, hide stashes for winter, or hunt their prey in the wilderness and devour it with as much brutal gusto as the animals they proudly hail from.

Studies have shown that magick supplies them with enough sustenance that they should not require food often, but their natural instinct to hunt and consume to survive is still present overriding this realization even when made aware of it.

Magimals tend to become leaders and protectors to their fellow species group. They may also be a preferred mate by members of the opposite sex for purposes of breeding. Most are not above using magick to attack their enemies in the wild, unless it frightens others of their species. When that is the case, they reserve the display of magick for Tala'man society when acceptable or when threatened.

The success rate of domesticating Magimals in the wild is considerably less due to their increased intelligence. Some Magimals allow themselves to be "adopted" by and live with Tala'mans who they have developed a high trust of or who they have decided to adventure with. This is usually for the expectation of a regular source of food and they may leave if they feel their needs or agreements set forth at the beginning are not being met. Some have simply adapted in a domesticated manner due to a close bond having been developed with one or more Tala'mans and the desire to continue that lifestyle regardless of if they need to supply for themselves.

Worldwide, wherever animal life exists.

Ranging from that of a 3-12 year old Tala'man (on average).

Some Magimals have developed a wider vocal range and the ability to communicate through words. Not simply imitation, their reasoning and learning skills have enabled them to speak select words of the language they have the most contact with that correspond to their needs (ex. "Food", "Hungry", "Hi, how are you?", "I want that.", "Goodbye."), or to speak languages fluently with complete sentences and thought out replies, although maxing out at the equivalent understanding level of an older child.

It is interesting to note that some mutations result in physiology similar to those of a dragon, such as scales, wings, and horns. It has been hypothesized that this may result from magick itself and its role in the creation of World Dragons and their offspring also having a similar affect on other species, but mutations such as these do not have much bearing on other species of the world. Rarely is anyone of bipedal status born with any additional body parts or odd coloration.

This has lead to several myths and legends of how Magimals are somehow related to dragons or have been affected by them.

One such myth is that long ago the World Dragons needed help in defeating their monster foes and that a mixed group of courageous animals joined forces to assist and drive the monsters deep into the planet. As a reward, the World Dragons bestowed special gifts and powers upon them. This is just one of the mythological beginnings of the very first Magimals.

Another myth is that World Dragons created animals as they created so many other species. (These species are mostly, if not entirely dragon species, as stated in the ancient texts.) But the World Dragons have stated that this is not true, just as they have denied creating Tala'mans.

A third myth is that the first Cavals recruited personal animals as battle companions and molded their bodies like clay to have weapons and armor, as well as bright colors to warn their enemies of the danger they were about to face.

Another unproven hypothesis is that normal animals living upon the World Dragons while they are dormant and resemble mountains absorb some of their primordial magick essence and are blessed with the similar body parts.