Lurlims

Instructions

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Lurlims are very catlike in shape, though often longer or taller. They have feathers protruding from their cheeks, along their spines like spikes, and on the joints of their legs. Where a cat's ears should be, there are 2 sets of two long feathers. Their real ears are like a seal's- Holes in the head, often somewhat concealed by fur. Lurlim feathers are often bright colors with fun patterns, while their fur is more dull or catlike in color, though they can be a bit more colorful- For example, 'blue' in cats is gray, but it could actually be a bit blue-ish in a lurlim. Their paws are similar in build to a feline's, but they are shaped differently, making them more dexterous. Their claws are not retractable, and they have thick forked tongues, often in dark colors, but not always. They can stand on two legs and hop, like a gerbil, but stay on all fours for the most part. CONNECTION TO THE WORLD: Lurlims are one of the main known intelligent species on the planet. Their native language is Lurian, with soft, flowing sounds. Most can also speak Common. Their feathers move to convey emotion, and actually play a big role in their language, substituting words and adding tones. Their dexterous paws are used to create some of the finest craftsmanship in the lands, including everything from weapons to woodcarvings. Lurlims are omnivores, but most tend to prefer meat when they can get it, making them great hunters. SOCIETY: Lurlim children stay with their families until they are about 12 star-cycles old. At that point, they have a choice- Twice every star-cycle (Canonically- IRP, we only do it once, since twice would be too hard for staff) young lurlims can be tested into groups, or retested if they don't like their current group. Some prefer to stay solitary, but most lurlims are fairly social and will choose a group. Groups live together, and generally get along. There is a balance of skills and personalities to make each group effective. The placement test is only to put you in a group where you will belong, and therefore many groups consist of lurlims of fairly similar ages. Lurlims live in villages and towns, and there are many jobs to be had. Lurlims can apprentice themselves to others who work as blacksmiths, bakers, woodcarvers, etc, or can work right away as hunters, gatherers, etc. for their group, family, or job. The main currency is carved wood coins, but most shops also accept the interspecies stone chips used by all intelligent races. Shops are often lined up in the middle of town, and are like stalls at a festival. Lurlims can live in huts or houses, but some individuals, groups, or villages prefer treehouses, burrows, or caves. Lurlims are the main creators of rare, artistic goods, such as recently invented paints, as well as carvings, furniture, sculptures, and jewelry. Lurlims obviously don't wear clothing, being animals, but those who can afford them will occasionally wear jewelry, capes, or armor, though it's heavy and often uncomfortable. Others wear leaves or flowers they find outside. Other than their claws and teeth, lurlims' main weapons are long spears, held in the paws or jaws. Some are also makers of fine bows. Usually, they are peaceful, but the species is currently at war with another species- Harsh, warlike winged lizard animals that walk like dinosaurs. This keeps many lurlim populations on edge, though most still continue life as normal, perhaps with weapons a little closer at paw. Lurlims love the sun. Their moods are usually greatly improved by its rays, and their colors seem brighter and stronger. In contrast, a lurlim who is deprived of the sun's warmth and light will eventually become dull and depressed, often with drooping feathers. They will become normal again after a few days in the sun, however. Lurlims are generally cheerful and friendly, though not all fit this stereotype. They communicate emotions with their feathers and tails, even when they don't mean to. Lurlim parents are usually very caring, until their children start gaining more independence at about 9 star-cycles of age. They will still check in once a lurlim is placed in their group, but the group is basically their new family/friend group by then, so they don't always remain close. Lurlims are not bound to their groups, and can still live normally and visit friends, but some jobs, such as a cleaning or hunting patrol, are assigned to a group as a whole, and every few star-cycles, there is a group competition! Many groups spend a long time training for that, and it is often multi-town! What a big deal! Villages are run by a Council, usually the oldest group. Each time somebody is voted out, dies, or no longer wants to lead, another responsible adult is chosen by the Council and approved by the peasants. The youngest 'lim to ever make the Council was rumored to be about 28 star-cycles old. There is no set lurlim religion, however many believe in the Mists. In short, they believe that [+]