Beastkin

Visually appearing as a humanoid animal, these creatures are mainly located in two regions around the centre of Ásaterra. Many of them inhabit the region known as Milos, located at the tail end of the old Elven forests, which now lies within the heart of the lands protected by the Circle of the Arcane. Others inhabit the southern pine forests of Taghan, in the lands protected by the Warriors of the Dark Sun, where they have always co-existed rather well with their nature and animal respecting neighbours. Beastkin often make the best guides and excellent scouts, although they have many other talents as well.

Not much is actually known about the Beastkin by the other races of Ásaterra, and to this day it is a mystery to Ásaterran scholars as to how Beastkin procreate, as there has never been record of a ‘baby Beastkin’ being seen. This has led to the possible theory that Beastkin are either not permitted or incapable of reproducing outside of their ancestral homelands. Furthermore, as it is almost unheard of for non-Beastkin to be invited into the heart of Beastkin territory, there has never been any information gleaned as to what the depths of their lands contain, or indeed much at all about the true nature of the species. Those few that have held the honour of meriting an invitation have remained tight-lipped regarding such information, to the great frustration of any scholar attempting to learn more about them.

From what has been learnt about the Beastkin culture, it is understood that their pantheon of the Gods follows a different structure to that which is commonly worshiped in Ásaterra. In their worship, it appears to be Fifaldia, not Magnus, who is seated as the head, and whilst it has been noted that some Beastkin worship the various other deities of the Ásaterran pantheon, many in fact do not. Other deities also seem to be worshipped, though it is unclear as to whether these are different gods, or simply different names and aspects used for the members of the Ásaterran pantheon. As with most questions regarding Beastkin culture, the majority of attempts to form a better understanding have ultimately been met with either incomprehensible answers, or none at all.

## Milos Beastkin

When the Kingdom of Ulaidh encountered the realm of Milos, they began to send envoys to negotiate with the Beastkin dwelling there. After a long series of debates, it was agreed that Milos and Ulaidh would enter into a non-aggression pact, where neither side would make any attempt to cause offense to the other. In addition, it was agreed that whilst no-one from outside of Milos was permitted to enter its borders without prior permission from the Beastkin within, the Beastkin of Milos would be permitted to freely roam the lands of Ulaidh in exchange for assisting Ulaidh in its military actions. This was a pact which was cemented with the battle to relieve the siege of Pejya-Kroglennow in 445 BU. The pact, whilst originally formed with Ulaidh, has been upheld between Ásaterra and Milos to the current day.

The Beastkin of Milos are usually highly territorial and seclusive in regards to the other races, and can be reluctant to leave their homeland, rarely doing so unless in the company of those they feel they can trust. Those that do venture forth from their lands often work well with other forest dwellers, amongst whom they can find some common ground, but can be slow to grow accustomed to crowds and usually have a strong distaste for ‘civilised’ environments, such as towns or cities. However, should someone successfully form a bond of fellowship with a Beastkin of Milos, they will often find that others of their kind become far more accomodating. Moreso, they can even prove to be the most fiercely loyal companions one could wish for.

## Taghan Beastkin

The southern based Beastkin of the Taghan Woods are commonly more outgoing than the ‘northern’ Beastkin of Milos, and are far more comfortable leaving their forests. Whilst they are still highly territorial should a trespasser approach one of their ancient dwellings, they are fairly calm with most other interactions with outsiders. Taghan Beastkin are generally willing to openly travel alongside, and stay in the settlements of other races. In some cases they have even been known to inhabit houses, although they retain their territorial tendencies, making it unwise to enter such a property without maintaining the appropriate etiquette.

The Taghan Beastkin can be quick to adapt to new situations, as they have found that change happens a lot in the South, and have therefore learnt to move with the tide of nature. Living within the lands of the Warriors of the Dark Sun, they have had a long and mostly positive relationship with their neighbours, from whom they have earned great respect for their skills as hunters and trackers. As such, it is not uncommon for them to help mercenaries or adventurers who are journeying near their lands and territory, and some even enjoy the mercenary lifestyle themselves.