── ⋅ ── Adaptations Over countless generations, each clan has slowly adapted to the environment gifted to them. These differences are the result of natural selection, magical influence from their guardian deity, and centuries of living within the same landscape. **Some of these adaptations could be seen as a negative (for example hypermobility in windcats, the claws of earthcats, no whiskers of watercats, or the bobtail in firecats), but because these are physical adaptations and the cats have specifically evolved this way, it does not cause them any pain. Other disabilities not natural to the clans WILL need research, as well as mental disabilities.** **These adaptations are not strict design requirements. Not every cat will display every trait the same way. However, the overall goal is that a cat should be recognizable by their silhouette and possess characteristics that make them look like they truly belong to their clan. Most adaptations are not optional.** ── ⋅ ── Highclan Children of Zephros Built for speed and impossible heights, Highclan cats are unmistakable even from a distance. They are by far the tallest clan. Their bodies are exceptionally lean with long, spring-loaded legs that give them an effortless stride and incredible jumping ability. Unlike the other clans, Highclan's skeleton is made of lightweight, hollow-reinforced bones. Though just as durable, these bones dramatically reduce body weight while their narrow, rounded snouts and oversized ears create an aerodynamic profile. One of their features is the pattern of dark facial markings stretching from the inner corners of their eyes to the edges of their mouths, much like the "tear marks" seen on cheetahs. These markings reduce glare from the open sky, allowing Highclan cats to track movement across brilliant grasslands and sunlit cliffs without straining their vision. Perhaps their most recognizable feature is their long, feather-like prehensile tail. Acting almost as a fifth limb, it helps them balance along cliff edges, steer while leaping, and recover from awkward landings. A thin fold of stretchy skin extends between their forelegs and abdomen, functioning much like a flying squirrel's membrane to slow dangerous falls. Their paws are unusually small and narrow, covered in rough, textured bits that grab onto smooth stone with remarkable efficiency. Combined with hypermobile joints, they can cling to narrow ledges and scramble across sheer cliff faces where other clans would slip. ── ⋅ ── Deltaclan Children of Nyrith Centuries among rivers and wetlands have transformed Deltaclan into masters of the water. They are the smallest clan, though their bodies remain surprisingly sturdy beneath their streamlined build. Every part of their anatomy is designed for efficient swimming. Their dense double coat naturally repels water, much like the feathers of a duck, trapping warmth even after long hours beneath the surface. Broad webbed paws provide excellent propulsion, while a thick, muscular tail acts as a powerful rudder, allowing precise underwater maneuvering. Unlike other clans, Deltaclan cats have no whiskers, instead relying on exceptional eyesight and depth perception underwater. A transparent third eyelid protects their vision while diving, and specialized nostrils can seal completely shut, similar to those of seals. Their short muzzle and small ears reduce drag through the water, giving them an almost otter-like appearance. ── ⋅ ── Groveclan Children of Sylora Groveclan cats look as though the forest itself claimed them long ago. Typically, they possess compact, muscular frames with broad shoulders, thick necks, and immense strength packed into a relatively modest build. Their heavy paws are equipped with oversized dew claws and powerful claws that never shed, instead growing thicker and darker throughout life. Long whiskers cover not only their muzzle but also the backs of their forelegs and paws, allowing them to navigate caves and tunnels by touch alone. Rounded ears sit low against the head, helping protect them from injury while burrowing through dense undergrowth or rocky passages. With age comes their most iconic adaptation. Moss, lichen, mushrooms, flowers, vines, and even tiny ferns naturally begin growing throughout their fur most commonly around the shoulders, spine, and neck. Far from being considered untidy, these living adornments are seen as symbols of wisdom and Sylora's blessing.
Blind births occur more frequently within Groveclan than any other clan. Thanks to their enhanced whiskers and excellent hearing, many blind cats adapt exceptionally well and often become some of the clan's most capable tunnel navigators. ── ⋅ ── Ashclan Children of Vaeryn Ashclan has evolved alongside fire itself. They possess broad, powerful builds supported by deep chests housing two complete sets of lungs (four lungs in total). This remarkable adaptation allows them to filter and breathe comfortably in smoke-filled forests and maintain incredible stamina during long hunts or battles. Their internal body temperature runs significantly warmer than that of the other clans, making extreme heat far more comfortable while cold weather affects them more noticeably. All exposed skin (including scars) is naturally pitch black, while their noses and paw pads resemble rough charcoal or cooled lava. These charcoal pads can even leave dark markings behind, making them useful for sketching maps, symbols, or messages. Their whiskers are short and darkened from generations living among ash and heat, while every Ashclan cat possesses a naturally shortened or bobbed tail, a trait favored over centuries to prevent injuries and accidents among burned forests. Perhaps their most beautiful adaptation is the long "ember fur" that develops with age. Around the cheeks, elbows, lower legs, ear tips, and tail, the fur gradually lengthens and fades/'bleaches' into brilliant shades of red, orange, gold, pale yellow, white, and occasionally blue, creating the appearance of glowing embers despite producing no actual light. ── ⋅ ──
