Post by Jarad on Jul 5, 2007 0:21:30 GMT -5
(Most thanks goes to Kai and the Video game serious Suikoden)
Winged Horde (Wingers)
A people that closely resemble humans, but instead have batlike wings and clawed feet. Despite the close resemblance, their relations with humans are tenuous at best, having many times suffered due to expansion on the part of humans. Originally the Winged Horde lived in the mountainous areas of what is now the Tinto Republic. However due to heavy mining during the early Highland-Jowston Wars, the Wingers were forced to leave their homes. They were however, given a new home in Two River thanks to Genkaku, at the time hero of the City-States.
Placed in between the Kobolds and Humans, the wingers were anything but welcome. Unable to find any real niche to contribute to the city's economy, many Winged Horde turned to petty theft to make a living. This in turn only worsened their relations with the other two races, being considered 'riff-raff' by the other races. However when the Highland Army attempted to capture Two River, the Winged Horde proved essential in keeping the city from being captured. Their dedication to protecting the city was enough to incite the kobolds into action, forcing the Highland Army to retreat. In the end, their efforts during the war helped ease the tensions with the other two races of Two River.
Beavers
A small race of furry builders who live along the Feitas River in Falena. Although closely resembling natural beavers, the Beaver race is generally significantly larger and lack the prominent tail. They are skilled builders, especially in matters of dams they have no rival. Their home, the Beaver Lodge, is located in an isolated spot in Falena, just north of the Waterfall Basin. In general they have avoided human contact as much as possible, since most encounters have proved to be costly for the Beavers. As a result very few beavers are considered literate in human writing. Their life spans are significantly shorter than humans, living in general half as long as humans do (with the oldest recorded beaver having lived to be fifty). Despite their small size and unintimidating appearance, they are unmatched on the rivers when it comes to dealing with traditional wooden river crafts.
The first notable encounter with humans occurred when the Godwin faction forced the Beavers to built the Hatered Fortress to prevent the recovery of the now barren Lordlake. The harsh work conditions caused a lot of resentment among the Lodge and as a result they severed all ties with humans with few exceptions of some Beavers who chose to live among human society. As the Falenan Civil War broke out, the Prince of Falena came directly to the Beavers to help dismantle the Hatered Fortress. Although hesitant to deal with humans again, they felt somewhat responsible for Lordlake's problems and agreed to help. They did not, however, become allies of the Loyalist Army until after their village was nearly destroyed by the Nether Gate as part of the "Falena for Falenans" policy. The Beavers proved steady allies of the army for the duration of the war and following the creation of the New Falenan Parliament, the Beavers were granted Falenan Citizenship and a voice in the Parliament.
Dragons
Dragons are extremely large reptilian creatures notable for their fiery breath (and icy breath) and their ability to fly. Little is known about dragons, largely because very few dragons live outside of Goya, the home of the Dragon Knights. What is known is that dragons originate from the World of Wings and Scales. It is only through the power of the Dragon Rune that dragons can exist in the regular world. It is because of this that the Bearer of the Dragon Rune rarely fights, because if he or she died, all dragons in the world would die. This may also explain why dragons therefore manage to live harmoniously with the Knights of Goya.
For Dragon Knights, they are paired up with a dragon at a very early age. This is a partnership that lasts for an entire lifetime, as it is typically not possible for a knight to obtain another dragon. Because of this, a dragon knight without a dragon is exiled from Goya. However a dragon that loses its master will eventually die in grief or in some cases, even transform into a zombified state. Due to the strength that dragons possess, Goya has long enjoyed autonomy from the Empire and later the Toran Republic, although they have always been closely allied to the country. For three hundred years Joshua Levenheit was the bearer the Dragon Rune, until recent years when Milia succeeded him.
Dragons have also been known to appear in the wild. These dragons however are considered untamable and the typical policy among Dragon Knights is that rouge dragons have to be exterminated. At least two known cases of wild dragons have been recorded. The first was when exiled Dragon Knight Futch was able to find an as of yet unhatched dragon, whose mother had seemingly already died. The dragon, later named Bright, was an extremely rare white dragon that was able to be tamed. Futch would later encounter another adult rogue dragon, one that seemed to have come straight from the World of Wings and Scales, as it showed many strange abilities, such as the ability to warp people back to its home dimension. However the intervention of Bright caused the renegade dragon to return to its home dimension in peace, returning back the people it had taken back to its home dimension.
Dragon Horses
Dragon Horses are bipedal lizards with a passing resemblance to actual dragons. Dragon Horses are a staple of the Dragon Riders of Sauronix, who are the only known group to use Dragon Horses as mounts. The versatility of these creatures make the riders very diverse. Since the Dragon Horses are indigenous to the rivers of Falena, they can fight on the water just as easily as they can on land. As such, the riders from Sauronix have played decisive roles in past battles of Falena. Originally only men could be riders, but the rule was changed following the Falenan Civil War.
Unlike most other mounts, Dragon Horses do not respond to words or gestures. Instead they respond to high pitched flutes that play frequencies inaudible to most humans. As such, constructing and learning to play these flutes is inherently difficult. Most Dragon Horses are born with two horns, but the occasional calf is born with three horns, which is a rare feature that is said to make the calf very special. Since Dragon Horses live on the rivers, their primary diet is fishing.
Ducks
Although similar to normal ducks, Ducks are much larger and much more intelligent. The only notable duck habitat is the Duck Village from the Duck Clan. Although close allies with the Karayan and Lizard Clan, the Ducks tend to be generally less combative and keep to their selves. This is part is thanks to their position in the Grassland, in which they are surrounded by other clans providing a nice buffer from enemies. As a result their village is much more permanent and thus reflects a more mercantile status among the other races. As such the Clan is led by a mayor rather than a chief. However despite their often more scholarly nature, Ducks are no strangers to combat and are skilled combatants, using halberds as their primary weapons.
Hugo, the Flame Champion, received much of his training from Sgt. Joe of the Duck Clan. During the course of the Second Fire Bringer War, the ducks provided as much support as they could to the Grassland-Zexen side as possible. Although their leader never officially joined the army (unlike the other clans), many from the Duck Clan took up arms to help protect the Grassland.
Dwarves
A race of humanoids standing around four foot tall. Dwarves are particularly noted not only for their short stature, but their rather stocky stature. A generally secretive race, they tend to have little to do with humans. Their life span is also one of the longest, aging at a rate of roughly 1.7 times slower than humans. They generally have an easy time accomplishing this due to living underground or far away from human settlements. This is not out of xenophobia, but a general indifference and disinterest in other races. But despite their physical similarities, the Toran Dwarves are different than their Falenan counterparts.
In Falena, the dwarves have a culture largely built on mining and tunneling. This craft is taken to such an extreme that the females are generally responsible for making sure the males don't pass out from exhaustion or lack of air. Besides digging, they are noted for an exceptional skill in blacksmithing and for laying an exceptionally long underground railway from their own home all the way to the Deep Twilight Forest beyond Sauronix Castle. Thanks to their isolated position in the mountains, they were rather indifferent to the other races and would allow them to freely roam in their camp. Despite their indifference to humans, the dwarves inevitably become involved in the Falenan Civil War and officially became citizens of the country with the establishment of the New Parliament.
Unlike the southern dwarves, the Toran dwarves are less concerned with tunneling and live completely above ground. They make their home in the Great Forest, separated from the elves and kobolds by a carefully guarded mountain path. Unlike most of the world, they have carefully maintained the skill of alchemy, likely passed on to them by the Sindar. With this talent they enjoy the benefits of electricity (provided by wind power) and artificial light. However most of their inventions are never put to use and are instead carefully preserved in a giant vault located north of their village. Notable examples of their ingenuity include robots, fire spears, the burning mirror, and other powerful weapons. Most of their inventions are never used, although the plans are occasionally sold (as well as their superior armor) to whoever is willing to pay the price for them. Unlike their Falenan counterparts, the dwarves greatly disliked the elves and typically looked down on the skills of humans. During the Gate Rune War, the dwarves remained generally neutral in the conflict, but mostly provided support to the Liberation Army.
Elves
One of the most prominent races in the world (next to humans), the elves encompass more parts of the world than other races. This may in part be due to their ability to integrate easily among humans. In appearance they are very much like humans, with the exception of long pointed ears and unusual hair colors. Despite this resemblance, their relations with humans is generally worse than any other race. In general they tend to view humans as lower beings, thanks to their shorter life spans (elves tend to live 50% longer than humans) and their tendency to war. This is not always true however, as many different elves have integrated their selves successfully into human culture - whether it was due to being raised by humans or other reasons (one such scenario being that the tree, Lukiae Ende Towayo, sheds its leaves every sixty years forcing the elves to leave for a year).
Elves are very protective of their own homes, as such few humans (or indeed, any other race) have set foot in any elven village. As far as history records, only Lukiae Ende Towayo of the Great Forest was ever visited by non-elves. The elves had for years kept outsiders away from their village thanks in part to the enchantment over the forest, but sharing the region with three other races made it difficult to maintain complete isolation. When Kwanda Rosman began asserting Imperial authority over the region, none of the elves were willing to seek outside help with the exception of Kirkis. In the end the village was decimated by the Burning Mirror, leaving only a small group of elves to rebuild from the devastation.
On the island of Na-Nal, the elves coexist with the humans on the island, although the peace between the two peoples is shaky at best. During the war with Kooluk, the elves intentionally sabotaged the efforts of the Na-Nal elder to peacefully ally with the Kooluk Empire. This was largely done because the elven elder felt the humans had no right forming alliances with other nations and using elven resources as a peace offering. When Lazlo and his companions went to secure the special Elven Remedy to make 'amends' for the trouble they caused, they were captured by the elves. Eventually they were set free by Selma, one of the native elves who didn't agree with the elves. Little else is known about elven involvement in the formation of the Island Nations afterwards.
The elven village of Alseid, located in Falena, is one of the more mysterious elven settlements. No human has ever set foot on Alseid, even though it seems to be located near to Lunas. Despite the fact that the Beavers and Dwarves became involved in the Falenan Civil War, the elves never officially lent their support and presumably were never represented by the new Parliament.
Fishmen
Not so much a race as an unfortunate side effect of the 'Evil Eye' Rune Cannon. A direct blast of the Evil Eye on a human exposes them to another dimension, altering their form into a grotesque fishmen. In this form they are generally incapable of speech or any form of self control, thought this is not always true. The condition is unfortunately irreversible, despite attempts by the sorcerer, Simeon. One of the earliest known instances of Fishmen occurred before Kooluk's southern expansion into the Island Nations. Walter, his son, and his servants had been searching for information on the Rune Cannons and ran into these Fishmen on more than one occasion. Their search eventually led them to the pirate Steele, who had gained an Evil Eye. He used the weapon against Walter, transforming him into a Fishman and ultimately leading to his death.
Following the war with Kooluk, the Fishmen began to resurface after a crafty Kooluk merchant was able to gather an Evil Eye cannon for himself in Warlock's old research area in Middleport. With no regard for life, he used the Evil Eye to transform anyone he could into Fishmen as loyal, unquestioning minions. His methods and plans soon were exposed leading to several Kooluk royals and soldiers to turning against him. Iskas eventually turned himself into an unusually powerful Fishman as a final act of spite against Kyril and his companions. With the defeat of Iskas, the Evil Eye was destroyed, presumably ending the existence of Fishmen along with it.
Gul-Horses
Gul-Horses are not actually horses, but a type of bipedal lizard native to the Toran region. Although Gul-Horses can be trained as mounts, in the past these creatures were generally overlooked by the Imperial Army due to their lack of endurance. However their great speed and strength gave them great potential and they were some times used for armored calvalry. Their full potential would later be realized by Teo McDohl, whose armored calvary would play decisive roles in both the War of Succession and Gate Rune War.
Although the armored calvary were victorious over the Liberation Army, they stood no match against the Fire Spears. Following the Gate Rune War, it is unknown if Gul-Horses continued to be used as mounts.
Kobolds
A race of anthromorphic dogs, standing generally around the same height as human (typically shorter). Interestingly enough is that Kobolds, despite their vast differences from humans, often have an easier time integrating their self among humans as opposed to other races. Much of their culture seems to be influenced by humans, including even the design of their architecture. In general their kind place a focus on fighting, resulting in what comes off as a low level of intelligence. This is not to say Kobolds are stupid, however, as they can be quite intelligent if they put forth the dedication. This however may be slightly hampered by the relatively short life spans they have, which tend to only be 70% as long as the average human's.
Currently there are only two known Kobold habitats - both on the Northern Continent. In Toran, the Kobolds share their home in the Great Forest with the Elves and Dwarves. Given the rather elitist nature of both races, the kobolds tend to have a difficult time interacting with either one and keep mostly to their self. Before the Gate Rune War had even broke out, Kwanda Rosman had used the power of the Black Rune to drive the Kobolds into absolute obedience - leaving only Kuromimi unaffected. Eventually this was put to a stop with the help of the Liberation Army, effectively making the Kobolds an ally to the war effort. Following the war, Kuromimi was made the chief of their village.
In contrast, the Dunan Kobolds have done better to integrate their self into human culture. Although a number of Kobolds do keep to their selves in their own village in the southern province of Two River, a vast majority of their population coexists with the Wingers and Humans in Two River City. The Kobolds have traditionally represented the military might of Two River, even though they were kept carefully segregated from the humans. The prejudice between the three races came to its boiling point during the Dunan Unification War when Highland Forces attempted to capture Two River. Eventually Two River became an ally, with Ridley Wizen officially representing Two River's might and becoming a strong supporter of the New State Army.
Lizards
A sturdy race of reptilians generally found in Grassland. The Lizards (not to be confused with normal lizards) are one of the largest sentient species around, generally standing taller than the average human. They have plenty of bulk to back up their height and are known to be some of the strongest warriors around. Due to their vast physical differences with humans, they consequently have a difficult time telling humans apart from one another. The species is found primarily in the Grassland within the Lizard Clan, although other tribes are said to exist. Due to their heavily warlike society, the Lizards get along well with the human Karayan Clan who also have a heavy warrior culture. Their relationship with the other clans are not quite as strong, but are still allies. The Lizard Clan has long been enemies of the Zexen Confederacy (as well as any other land encroaching nation).
The Lizard Clan were allies of the Fire Bringer in both wars. In the first war, Zepon was a close ally of Geddoe and other members of the group. In the years that followed he would later become clan chief until his assassination by Yuber as the Second Fire Bringer War broke out. He was succeeded by Dupa, who led the clan into frequent engagements with the Zexen Confederacy until Harmonia became an enemy, forcing an uneasy alliance. Following the war, the Lizard Clan continued to experience frequent border conflicts with Zexen and Tinto despite their previous alliances.
Lycanthropes (Werewolves)
A race of wolfmen capable of assuming human form, generally through the means of a 'Rabid Fang Rune'. This method in itself allows the bearer to remain in human form for as long as they like, unless they lose their concentration such as during a sneeze. Whether all lycanthropes use runes for such means is unknown, as very little about the race has ever been recorded. Regardless in their wolf form they are incredibly strong warriors, nearly outclassing any other race in brute strength. In Harmonia, the race has been integrated into the non-human caste where they are little better off than third class citizens. There used to be Lycanthrope village (or clan) in the Grassland, but it was destroyed by the sorceress Windy in her quest for powerful rules. The only known survivor of the devastation was Bob, who fought in the Dunan Unification War.
An interesting case of 'reverse Lycanthropy' was noted in the case of Ernst, a boy from Zelant. A 'Pale Gate Rune' was permanently affixed to his forehead in a Sindar Ruin, forcing him into the form of a leopard that he can only escape from in small spurts. Interestingly enough he was able to leave this form during a full moon. What connection, if any, this condition has to true Lycanthropes is unknown.
Mermaids
A race of aquatic humanoids that inhabit the ocean, in general, around the Island Nations. One of their favorite spots was the Deserted Island (later named Chiepoo or Lazlo Island) where they were to go undisturbed. However this arrangement was disturbed when the Cray Trading Company began aggressively hunting mermaids for their skins. This made mermaid hunting a rather lucrative enterprise, although many individuals, such as Kika's pirates, frowned on the act.
During the Island Liberation War, five mermaid sisters joined Lazlo's side where they opened an accessory shop. Their involvement was minimal, but they later proved crucial by piloting three burning decoy ships into the Kooluk navy before jumping ship and swimming back to The Dauntless. With the Kooluk threat minimized, the mermaids were free to resume their peaceful lifestyle, although the Deserted Island had now attracted a small population now.
Nay-Kobolds
A race of catmen found predominantly in the Island Nations. They share their habitat with the humans on Nay Island, although they generally keep their populations separate. However Nay-Kobolds tend to be generally accepting of other races and their populations often visit the other's city. In general however few Nay-Kobolds leave their village, with the few exception of the 'famed entrepreneur' Chiepoo who fought in Lazlo's army. Like normal cats, they use their own claws for their weapons and generally have no need for other weapons.
Their village in general is rather whimsical with bright colors as well as hot springs that they rarely ever use. In general the village has avoided involvement in wars related to the Island Nations, although two enterprising Nay-Kobolds - Nalkul and Champo - were involved in both the war with the Kooluk and later the dismantling of the Kooluk Empire. Despite their name, it is unknown what - if any - connection they have with the doglike Kobolds of the north.
Vampires
Not so much a separate species as it is a irreversible condition placed on humans. Vampires first came into existence thanks to the power of the Moon Rune with the very first vampire being Sierra Mikain. As creatures of the night, their existence is allowed thanks to the power of the Night Rune which holds the power to destroy them swiftly and easily. The first vampires originated from the original coven started by Sierra that lasted for centuries until one particular vampire, Neclord, stole the Moon Rune and became an ally of Windy and Yuber. From that point on vampires became a scourge to humanity. While under the power of the Moon Rune, vampires had no need for blood, but once separated it became an uncontrollable urge that caused many vampires to become vicious predators or end their own lives.
Contrary to popular belief, vampires are not immortal (with the exception of the original vampire, Sierra). They are however extremely long lived and have been known to live for nearly a millennia. All vampires are not alike, however. A key difference is that 'Runic Vampires' are created by the power of the Moon Rune. As such they are more resilient against normal vampire weaknesses (such as holy weapons) and have the capability to transform into a bat at will. Normal vampires are still stronger than humans, but cannot tolerate sunlight and are particularly vulnerable to holy weapons.
Vampires have been a plague to the world ever since Neclord's acquisition of the Moon Rune. As such they have created many enemies in the form of vampire hunters, those of particular note being the Marley family, Viktor, and Edge. Many vampire hunting techniques have since been created, but none so effective as the Star Dragon Sword, the living embodiment of the Night Rune. Thanks to the combination of the above, Sierra was eventually able to regain the Moon Rune and end Neclord's evil. However vampires still exist throughout the world, with vampire hunters continuing to pursue and destroy them.
Winged Horde (Wingers)
A people that closely resemble humans, but instead have batlike wings and clawed feet. Despite the close resemblance, their relations with humans are tenuous at best, having many times suffered due to expansion on the part of humans. Originally the Winged Horde lived in the mountainous areas of what is now the Tinto Republic. However due to heavy mining during the early Highland-Jowston Wars, the Wingers were forced to leave their homes. They were however, given a new home in Two River thanks to Genkaku, at the time hero of the City-States.
Placed in between the Kobolds and Humans, the wingers were anything but welcome. Unable to find any real niche to contribute to the city's economy, many Winged Horde turned to petty theft to make a living. This in turn only worsened their relations with the other two races, being considered 'riff-raff' by the other races. However when the Highland Army attempted to capture Two River, the Winged Horde proved essential in keeping the city from being captured. Their dedication to protecting the city was enough to incite the kobolds into action, forcing the Highland Army to retreat. In the end, their efforts during the war helped ease the tensions with the other two races of Two River.
Beavers
A small race of furry builders who live along the Feitas River in Falena. Although closely resembling natural beavers, the Beaver race is generally significantly larger and lack the prominent tail. They are skilled builders, especially in matters of dams they have no rival. Their home, the Beaver Lodge, is located in an isolated spot in Falena, just north of the Waterfall Basin. In general they have avoided human contact as much as possible, since most encounters have proved to be costly for the Beavers. As a result very few beavers are considered literate in human writing. Their life spans are significantly shorter than humans, living in general half as long as humans do (with the oldest recorded beaver having lived to be fifty). Despite their small size and unintimidating appearance, they are unmatched on the rivers when it comes to dealing with traditional wooden river crafts.
The first notable encounter with humans occurred when the Godwin faction forced the Beavers to built the Hatered Fortress to prevent the recovery of the now barren Lordlake. The harsh work conditions caused a lot of resentment among the Lodge and as a result they severed all ties with humans with few exceptions of some Beavers who chose to live among human society. As the Falenan Civil War broke out, the Prince of Falena came directly to the Beavers to help dismantle the Hatered Fortress. Although hesitant to deal with humans again, they felt somewhat responsible for Lordlake's problems and agreed to help. They did not, however, become allies of the Loyalist Army until after their village was nearly destroyed by the Nether Gate as part of the "Falena for Falenans" policy. The Beavers proved steady allies of the army for the duration of the war and following the creation of the New Falenan Parliament, the Beavers were granted Falenan Citizenship and a voice in the Parliament.
Dragons
Dragons are extremely large reptilian creatures notable for their fiery breath (and icy breath) and their ability to fly. Little is known about dragons, largely because very few dragons live outside of Goya, the home of the Dragon Knights. What is known is that dragons originate from the World of Wings and Scales. It is only through the power of the Dragon Rune that dragons can exist in the regular world. It is because of this that the Bearer of the Dragon Rune rarely fights, because if he or she died, all dragons in the world would die. This may also explain why dragons therefore manage to live harmoniously with the Knights of Goya.
For Dragon Knights, they are paired up with a dragon at a very early age. This is a partnership that lasts for an entire lifetime, as it is typically not possible for a knight to obtain another dragon. Because of this, a dragon knight without a dragon is exiled from Goya. However a dragon that loses its master will eventually die in grief or in some cases, even transform into a zombified state. Due to the strength that dragons possess, Goya has long enjoyed autonomy from the Empire and later the Toran Republic, although they have always been closely allied to the country. For three hundred years Joshua Levenheit was the bearer the Dragon Rune, until recent years when Milia succeeded him.
Dragons have also been known to appear in the wild. These dragons however are considered untamable and the typical policy among Dragon Knights is that rouge dragons have to be exterminated. At least two known cases of wild dragons have been recorded. The first was when exiled Dragon Knight Futch was able to find an as of yet unhatched dragon, whose mother had seemingly already died. The dragon, later named Bright, was an extremely rare white dragon that was able to be tamed. Futch would later encounter another adult rogue dragon, one that seemed to have come straight from the World of Wings and Scales, as it showed many strange abilities, such as the ability to warp people back to its home dimension. However the intervention of Bright caused the renegade dragon to return to its home dimension in peace, returning back the people it had taken back to its home dimension.
Dragon Horses
Dragon Horses are bipedal lizards with a passing resemblance to actual dragons. Dragon Horses are a staple of the Dragon Riders of Sauronix, who are the only known group to use Dragon Horses as mounts. The versatility of these creatures make the riders very diverse. Since the Dragon Horses are indigenous to the rivers of Falena, they can fight on the water just as easily as they can on land. As such, the riders from Sauronix have played decisive roles in past battles of Falena. Originally only men could be riders, but the rule was changed following the Falenan Civil War.
Unlike most other mounts, Dragon Horses do not respond to words or gestures. Instead they respond to high pitched flutes that play frequencies inaudible to most humans. As such, constructing and learning to play these flutes is inherently difficult. Most Dragon Horses are born with two horns, but the occasional calf is born with three horns, which is a rare feature that is said to make the calf very special. Since Dragon Horses live on the rivers, their primary diet is fishing.
Ducks
Although similar to normal ducks, Ducks are much larger and much more intelligent. The only notable duck habitat is the Duck Village from the Duck Clan. Although close allies with the Karayan and Lizard Clan, the Ducks tend to be generally less combative and keep to their selves. This is part is thanks to their position in the Grassland, in which they are surrounded by other clans providing a nice buffer from enemies. As a result their village is much more permanent and thus reflects a more mercantile status among the other races. As such the Clan is led by a mayor rather than a chief. However despite their often more scholarly nature, Ducks are no strangers to combat and are skilled combatants, using halberds as their primary weapons.
Hugo, the Flame Champion, received much of his training from Sgt. Joe of the Duck Clan. During the course of the Second Fire Bringer War, the ducks provided as much support as they could to the Grassland-Zexen side as possible. Although their leader never officially joined the army (unlike the other clans), many from the Duck Clan took up arms to help protect the Grassland.
Dwarves
A race of humanoids standing around four foot tall. Dwarves are particularly noted not only for their short stature, but their rather stocky stature. A generally secretive race, they tend to have little to do with humans. Their life span is also one of the longest, aging at a rate of roughly 1.7 times slower than humans. They generally have an easy time accomplishing this due to living underground or far away from human settlements. This is not out of xenophobia, but a general indifference and disinterest in other races. But despite their physical similarities, the Toran Dwarves are different than their Falenan counterparts.
In Falena, the dwarves have a culture largely built on mining and tunneling. This craft is taken to such an extreme that the females are generally responsible for making sure the males don't pass out from exhaustion or lack of air. Besides digging, they are noted for an exceptional skill in blacksmithing and for laying an exceptionally long underground railway from their own home all the way to the Deep Twilight Forest beyond Sauronix Castle. Thanks to their isolated position in the mountains, they were rather indifferent to the other races and would allow them to freely roam in their camp. Despite their indifference to humans, the dwarves inevitably become involved in the Falenan Civil War and officially became citizens of the country with the establishment of the New Parliament.
Unlike the southern dwarves, the Toran dwarves are less concerned with tunneling and live completely above ground. They make their home in the Great Forest, separated from the elves and kobolds by a carefully guarded mountain path. Unlike most of the world, they have carefully maintained the skill of alchemy, likely passed on to them by the Sindar. With this talent they enjoy the benefits of electricity (provided by wind power) and artificial light. However most of their inventions are never put to use and are instead carefully preserved in a giant vault located north of their village. Notable examples of their ingenuity include robots, fire spears, the burning mirror, and other powerful weapons. Most of their inventions are never used, although the plans are occasionally sold (as well as their superior armor) to whoever is willing to pay the price for them. Unlike their Falenan counterparts, the dwarves greatly disliked the elves and typically looked down on the skills of humans. During the Gate Rune War, the dwarves remained generally neutral in the conflict, but mostly provided support to the Liberation Army.
Elves
One of the most prominent races in the world (next to humans), the elves encompass more parts of the world than other races. This may in part be due to their ability to integrate easily among humans. In appearance they are very much like humans, with the exception of long pointed ears and unusual hair colors. Despite this resemblance, their relations with humans is generally worse than any other race. In general they tend to view humans as lower beings, thanks to their shorter life spans (elves tend to live 50% longer than humans) and their tendency to war. This is not always true however, as many different elves have integrated their selves successfully into human culture - whether it was due to being raised by humans or other reasons (one such scenario being that the tree, Lukiae Ende Towayo, sheds its leaves every sixty years forcing the elves to leave for a year).
Elves are very protective of their own homes, as such few humans (or indeed, any other race) have set foot in any elven village. As far as history records, only Lukiae Ende Towayo of the Great Forest was ever visited by non-elves. The elves had for years kept outsiders away from their village thanks in part to the enchantment over the forest, but sharing the region with three other races made it difficult to maintain complete isolation. When Kwanda Rosman began asserting Imperial authority over the region, none of the elves were willing to seek outside help with the exception of Kirkis. In the end the village was decimated by the Burning Mirror, leaving only a small group of elves to rebuild from the devastation.
On the island of Na-Nal, the elves coexist with the humans on the island, although the peace between the two peoples is shaky at best. During the war with Kooluk, the elves intentionally sabotaged the efforts of the Na-Nal elder to peacefully ally with the Kooluk Empire. This was largely done because the elven elder felt the humans had no right forming alliances with other nations and using elven resources as a peace offering. When Lazlo and his companions went to secure the special Elven Remedy to make 'amends' for the trouble they caused, they were captured by the elves. Eventually they were set free by Selma, one of the native elves who didn't agree with the elves. Little else is known about elven involvement in the formation of the Island Nations afterwards.
The elven village of Alseid, located in Falena, is one of the more mysterious elven settlements. No human has ever set foot on Alseid, even though it seems to be located near to Lunas. Despite the fact that the Beavers and Dwarves became involved in the Falenan Civil War, the elves never officially lent their support and presumably were never represented by the new Parliament.
Fishmen
Not so much a race as an unfortunate side effect of the 'Evil Eye' Rune Cannon. A direct blast of the Evil Eye on a human exposes them to another dimension, altering their form into a grotesque fishmen. In this form they are generally incapable of speech or any form of self control, thought this is not always true. The condition is unfortunately irreversible, despite attempts by the sorcerer, Simeon. One of the earliest known instances of Fishmen occurred before Kooluk's southern expansion into the Island Nations. Walter, his son, and his servants had been searching for information on the Rune Cannons and ran into these Fishmen on more than one occasion. Their search eventually led them to the pirate Steele, who had gained an Evil Eye. He used the weapon against Walter, transforming him into a Fishman and ultimately leading to his death.
Following the war with Kooluk, the Fishmen began to resurface after a crafty Kooluk merchant was able to gather an Evil Eye cannon for himself in Warlock's old research area in Middleport. With no regard for life, he used the Evil Eye to transform anyone he could into Fishmen as loyal, unquestioning minions. His methods and plans soon were exposed leading to several Kooluk royals and soldiers to turning against him. Iskas eventually turned himself into an unusually powerful Fishman as a final act of spite against Kyril and his companions. With the defeat of Iskas, the Evil Eye was destroyed, presumably ending the existence of Fishmen along with it.
Gul-Horses
Gul-Horses are not actually horses, but a type of bipedal lizard native to the Toran region. Although Gul-Horses can be trained as mounts, in the past these creatures were generally overlooked by the Imperial Army due to their lack of endurance. However their great speed and strength gave them great potential and they were some times used for armored calvalry. Their full potential would later be realized by Teo McDohl, whose armored calvary would play decisive roles in both the War of Succession and Gate Rune War.
Although the armored calvary were victorious over the Liberation Army, they stood no match against the Fire Spears. Following the Gate Rune War, it is unknown if Gul-Horses continued to be used as mounts.
Kobolds
A race of anthromorphic dogs, standing generally around the same height as human (typically shorter). Interestingly enough is that Kobolds, despite their vast differences from humans, often have an easier time integrating their self among humans as opposed to other races. Much of their culture seems to be influenced by humans, including even the design of their architecture. In general their kind place a focus on fighting, resulting in what comes off as a low level of intelligence. This is not to say Kobolds are stupid, however, as they can be quite intelligent if they put forth the dedication. This however may be slightly hampered by the relatively short life spans they have, which tend to only be 70% as long as the average human's.
Currently there are only two known Kobold habitats - both on the Northern Continent. In Toran, the Kobolds share their home in the Great Forest with the Elves and Dwarves. Given the rather elitist nature of both races, the kobolds tend to have a difficult time interacting with either one and keep mostly to their self. Before the Gate Rune War had even broke out, Kwanda Rosman had used the power of the Black Rune to drive the Kobolds into absolute obedience - leaving only Kuromimi unaffected. Eventually this was put to a stop with the help of the Liberation Army, effectively making the Kobolds an ally to the war effort. Following the war, Kuromimi was made the chief of their village.
In contrast, the Dunan Kobolds have done better to integrate their self into human culture. Although a number of Kobolds do keep to their selves in their own village in the southern province of Two River, a vast majority of their population coexists with the Wingers and Humans in Two River City. The Kobolds have traditionally represented the military might of Two River, even though they were kept carefully segregated from the humans. The prejudice between the three races came to its boiling point during the Dunan Unification War when Highland Forces attempted to capture Two River. Eventually Two River became an ally, with Ridley Wizen officially representing Two River's might and becoming a strong supporter of the New State Army.
Lizards
A sturdy race of reptilians generally found in Grassland. The Lizards (not to be confused with normal lizards) are one of the largest sentient species around, generally standing taller than the average human. They have plenty of bulk to back up their height and are known to be some of the strongest warriors around. Due to their vast physical differences with humans, they consequently have a difficult time telling humans apart from one another. The species is found primarily in the Grassland within the Lizard Clan, although other tribes are said to exist. Due to their heavily warlike society, the Lizards get along well with the human Karayan Clan who also have a heavy warrior culture. Their relationship with the other clans are not quite as strong, but are still allies. The Lizard Clan has long been enemies of the Zexen Confederacy (as well as any other land encroaching nation).
The Lizard Clan were allies of the Fire Bringer in both wars. In the first war, Zepon was a close ally of Geddoe and other members of the group. In the years that followed he would later become clan chief until his assassination by Yuber as the Second Fire Bringer War broke out. He was succeeded by Dupa, who led the clan into frequent engagements with the Zexen Confederacy until Harmonia became an enemy, forcing an uneasy alliance. Following the war, the Lizard Clan continued to experience frequent border conflicts with Zexen and Tinto despite their previous alliances.
Lycanthropes (Werewolves)
A race of wolfmen capable of assuming human form, generally through the means of a 'Rabid Fang Rune'. This method in itself allows the bearer to remain in human form for as long as they like, unless they lose their concentration such as during a sneeze. Whether all lycanthropes use runes for such means is unknown, as very little about the race has ever been recorded. Regardless in their wolf form they are incredibly strong warriors, nearly outclassing any other race in brute strength. In Harmonia, the race has been integrated into the non-human caste where they are little better off than third class citizens. There used to be Lycanthrope village (or clan) in the Grassland, but it was destroyed by the sorceress Windy in her quest for powerful rules. The only known survivor of the devastation was Bob, who fought in the Dunan Unification War.
An interesting case of 'reverse Lycanthropy' was noted in the case of Ernst, a boy from Zelant. A 'Pale Gate Rune' was permanently affixed to his forehead in a Sindar Ruin, forcing him into the form of a leopard that he can only escape from in small spurts. Interestingly enough he was able to leave this form during a full moon. What connection, if any, this condition has to true Lycanthropes is unknown.
Mermaids
A race of aquatic humanoids that inhabit the ocean, in general, around the Island Nations. One of their favorite spots was the Deserted Island (later named Chiepoo or Lazlo Island) where they were to go undisturbed. However this arrangement was disturbed when the Cray Trading Company began aggressively hunting mermaids for their skins. This made mermaid hunting a rather lucrative enterprise, although many individuals, such as Kika's pirates, frowned on the act.
During the Island Liberation War, five mermaid sisters joined Lazlo's side where they opened an accessory shop. Their involvement was minimal, but they later proved crucial by piloting three burning decoy ships into the Kooluk navy before jumping ship and swimming back to The Dauntless. With the Kooluk threat minimized, the mermaids were free to resume their peaceful lifestyle, although the Deserted Island had now attracted a small population now.
Nay-Kobolds
A race of catmen found predominantly in the Island Nations. They share their habitat with the humans on Nay Island, although they generally keep their populations separate. However Nay-Kobolds tend to be generally accepting of other races and their populations often visit the other's city. In general however few Nay-Kobolds leave their village, with the few exception of the 'famed entrepreneur' Chiepoo who fought in Lazlo's army. Like normal cats, they use their own claws for their weapons and generally have no need for other weapons.
Their village in general is rather whimsical with bright colors as well as hot springs that they rarely ever use. In general the village has avoided involvement in wars related to the Island Nations, although two enterprising Nay-Kobolds - Nalkul and Champo - were involved in both the war with the Kooluk and later the dismantling of the Kooluk Empire. Despite their name, it is unknown what - if any - connection they have with the doglike Kobolds of the north.
Vampires
Not so much a separate species as it is a irreversible condition placed on humans. Vampires first came into existence thanks to the power of the Moon Rune with the very first vampire being Sierra Mikain. As creatures of the night, their existence is allowed thanks to the power of the Night Rune which holds the power to destroy them swiftly and easily. The first vampires originated from the original coven started by Sierra that lasted for centuries until one particular vampire, Neclord, stole the Moon Rune and became an ally of Windy and Yuber. From that point on vampires became a scourge to humanity. While under the power of the Moon Rune, vampires had no need for blood, but once separated it became an uncontrollable urge that caused many vampires to become vicious predators or end their own lives.
Contrary to popular belief, vampires are not immortal (with the exception of the original vampire, Sierra). They are however extremely long lived and have been known to live for nearly a millennia. All vampires are not alike, however. A key difference is that 'Runic Vampires' are created by the power of the Moon Rune. As such they are more resilient against normal vampire weaknesses (such as holy weapons) and have the capability to transform into a bat at will. Normal vampires are still stronger than humans, but cannot tolerate sunlight and are particularly vulnerable to holy weapons.
Vampires have been a plague to the world ever since Neclord's acquisition of the Moon Rune. As such they have created many enemies in the form of vampire hunters, those of particular note being the Marley family, Viktor, and Edge. Many vampire hunting techniques have since been created, but none so effective as the Star Dragon Sword, the living embodiment of the Night Rune. Thanks to the combination of the above, Sierra was eventually able to regain the Moon Rune and end Neclord's evil. However vampires still exist throughout the world, with vampire hunters continuing to pursue and destroy them.