Catfolk

Catfolk were a beastfolk race native to Arcadia. They were thought to have originated on the isle of Costa Dorada sometime during the Harvest Era. They were humanoid, though displayed distinctive feline features including a fur-like coat, whiskers and tails.
Throughout history they were relatively uncommon in comparison to the other beastfolk races. During the Common and Blessed Eras they were known to occupy many powerful positions in Arcadian colonies, though other prominent figures included martial aficionados.
Although often viewed unfavourably by Astrian historians, some Catfolk individuals were able to shake off this racial demonisation to become respected heroes.
== Information ==
=== Physical Description ===
Catfolk were smaller than the average mortal. Like their ratfolk cousins, their height was often viewed as a disadvantage due to the (comparatively) unergonomic nature of human and elven cities. They were considered quite agile, and used their small stature to their advantage in combat.
Their fur coat was often marked in a variety of ways, though was often coloured tawny brown, mottled white or ginger. Darker hues were less common, but still present.
=== Society ===
Catfolk culture developed on Costa Dorada sometime during the Era of Harvest. The beastfolk settlements of their origin were eventually abandoned in favour of the myriad Astrian colonies that were later founded in Arcadia. Serving under these colonies, catfolk administrators and governors were often authoritarian in nature. They often produced desirable results for their colonial overlords, typically at the cost of their local populations. Ratfolk, in particular, were practically enslaved by the catfolk for centuries.
Many catfolk were proud, and between members of the race noble lineage was often considered extremely important. Great houses founded by the race were more often than not self-serving, and were viewed as an extension of the greedy and envious rulers that commanded them.
Virtuous traits displayed by members of the race included a meticulous nature born out of pride, giving rise to generations of master swordsmen and fencing aficionados. These individuals were often stubborn and fastidious in the protection of what they saw to be right. In this way, some catfolk heroes would become steadfast protectors of the world.
=== Relations ===
Catfolk were, as a rule, generally hostile to ratfolk. Relations between the two races throughout history were rarely amicable, and eventually soured greatly. Slavery was extremely commonplace, and ratfolk would serve under catfolk rulers throughout Arcadia for many centuries. This practice was later banned outright by Astrian colonial governments seeking to establish rights for their beastfolk citizens.Category:Browse