Neko

*a lexica entry by Finwis Krum*

**Alternate Names:** Nekomata, Bakeneko, Catperson, Cat Spirits, Cat Demons

Generally summarized, Neko are the humanoid appearing spirits of the Far East. They are Cats Spirits capable of shifting into humanoid forms whilst keeping feline physical attributes, or they are ancient spirits of the mountains with two tails, called Nekomata. In some cases, old cats can become Neko instead of passing onto the afterlife. These are called the Bakeneko.

Neko are, by definition, part of the wider demonic spectrum.

## General Appearance

Whereas the feline form is the original physical form of a Cat Spirit, a Neko is the humanoid shapeshift of said spirit. Details in physical appearance vary, especially depending on fur and hair color, and on the origins of the Cat Spirit, as mentioned above. In almost all cases, a Neko has at least cat ears and one or more cat tails. Most Neko are below average height and especially slender, speculated for them to keep their agility. However, there are reported exceptions, for example Neko who gained as much weight as possible in order to participate in Sumo.

Uncommon additional feline traits to the humanoid form called Neko are: feline nose, claws, fangs, entire feline faces, entire feline hind legs or paws, a body entirely covered in fur.

**Average life span:** 9 lives of 999 years each

**Average height:** m 170cm/5.8ft ; f 158cm/5.2ft

## Characteristics

Given the fact that Neko can have all kinds of character traits, there are a few that one can observe to be frequent. Neko are observant before they interact, cautious whom to trust, and once they find a liking to someone, they can be quite demanding.

Also typical for Neko is their love for freedom. Anything that encaptures them or makes them feel like they are not allowed to roam and decide their own schedule goes against their instincts and can cause behavioral issues. If one wants to keep a healthy relationship with a Neko, it is best to base it on mutual respect and patience.

Neko roam, explore, have a constant internal conflict of curiosity and caution but manage to find a balance between these traits either way. Exceptions of Neko not roaming may come from curses, hexes, or past lives of captivity and trauma.

Mixes examples of traits people assign to Neko are: Adventurous, affectionate, careful, curious, eager, exacting, fanciful, finicky, greedy, imaginative, independent, logical, moody, persevering, secretive, sensitive, shy, smart, strange, sweet, tasteful, versatile, whimsical

## Magic

Miscellaneous journals speak of rare encounters with Neko capable of magic. However, the range of their magical abilities is rather small. It includes shapeshifting back into their original feline form, speaking common through magical means during their feline form, and minor Fortune Manipulation.

For Nekomata it is said that they can take over the appearance of other humans for a short time, having to heavily sustain on meat every few hours in order to continue to do so. Furthermore, it is said that, if one kills a Neko with ill intent, seven generations of their family shall be cursed for them to rise as undead during their funerals.