Shapeshifter

Quick Information

Race: Shapeshifter
Leader: Sentinel Alpha

Genii: Canine, Feline, Reptilian, Avian...
Leaders: Sentinel Beta

Sanctuary: Canadian Grove
Special: Shared with Nymph

Language: Secret
Family Structure: Pack, Clan
Racial Enemies: Vampire
Patron Aide: Chenoan

Though a relatively young species, Shapeshifters have a rich history entwined with human lore.

No one reallyknows how they were created. Early Shapeshifters were much less aware than 'Shifters of today and so their beginnings were not recorded.

Like most other races, they were created by Xanth's blood but she cannot take credit for their existence. In actuality, the very first Shapshifter was an animal that survived a Vampire attack.

Shapeshifters evolved like the other Elysian races. Some bloodlines thinned and became more human. Others retained their more animalistic quarlities.

Throughout Earth's history they have been known as werewolf, Big Foot, Skinwalker, Changeling, but none of these labels are entirely accurate.

Shifting Forms

All Shapeshifters are born with a base form and a secondary form. Depending on their bloodline, these forms could be animal or human.

If the base form is human, the Shapeshifter grows like any other human, with the ability to change shape once they reach puberty. They react like humans in any given situation but can use their animal senses and instincts to aid them.

If the base form is animal, the 'Shifter is born and is raised as an animal and can only take human form when they reach puberty. While they are governed by animal instinct, they have human reasoning and can learn to speak like any other human.

Regardless of their base form, Shapeshifters can only morph into the animals in their Genus - a cat cannot become a dog; and likewise, a parrot cannot become a snake.

Special Powers: Sense, Morph, Animal Communication, Telepathic Immunity, Speed

Sense

Level One: Blah blah

Mythic Form

Upon reaching the highest level of experience and gaining complete control of their abilities, a Shapeshifter is capable of changing into a creature that does not exist. This creature must still be in the Genus of that Shapeshifter and they must have a visual reference so they can assume its form, but it could include creatures such as dragons, gryphon, chimaera or even (unfortunately) the Hind.

The Canadian Wilds

In the wilds of Canada, separated from Earth - and the dangers inherent there - by Xanth's magic, the Grove is a subdimension that exists over Earth's. Sharing this luscious wilderness with the Nymph who nurture it, the Shapeshifters have no fear of poachers or hunters and can roam freely.


The Grove is a village in the Canadian wilds. Actually, two villages, because even though Nymphs and Shapeshifters share this verdant sanctuary they do have their privacy.

The Lake

This great freshwater lake is the central point of the Grove, fed by a creek that wends it way down from the top of the largest mountain. There is a forest along its western shore that spreads right down to the south, a ragged mountain range to the north, and a lovely sandy beach on the east shore.

The Forest

Home of the Nymphs, the forest is huge and stretches back from the west shore of the lake for miles. Nymphs nurture and protect the forest, living in treetop houses that Nymphs of the past have coaxed out of the trees themselves. All manner of creature live here from squirrels to wild cats, unicorns to wild boars - so be aware that if you venture beyond the Nymph village you may encounter dangers you cannot handle by yourself.

The Mountain

There is a rather large range of mountains that constitutes the north border of the Grove. Go beyond it and you are no longer protected by Xanth or the Sentinels. The largest mountain is the source of the creek and there is a trail that winds around the craggy peak. There is also a natural cave (as opposed to the unnatural cave that forms the home of the Shapeshifters) at the very top.

The Cave

A hill on the north shore of the lake leads into the manmade cave where Shapeshifters have carved out a home. The hill blends naturally into its surroundings so unless you know where to look it cannot be found and is disguised further by a large stone monument that sits at its peak, drawing attention away from the cave's entrance.