Aestiva

The Aestiva a bird-like humanoid race.

History
The Aestiva developed from a subgroup of parrots that were bred prior to the Fey Arrival. After the Arrival, the parrots integrated themselves into local environments. After centuries several of them consumed Essence, and underwent transformations that enhanced their physical and mental capabilities. Eventually they formed societies, and viewed humans as deities. The Aestiva began a culture of Essence consumption and used the Essence within themselves to become more human like.

Appearance
Lesser Aestiva are in a twilight zone between human and bird. They have large, feathered arms and rough skin that breaks into feathers. They are hunched back, and talk with a high pitched tone. They normally lack beaks, but still have dramatically curved faced. They're eyes are bird-like, and their hair normally looks like feathers.

True Aestiva are rare, forged from consumption and cannibalism. They look almost completely human, except that their hair is abnormally spiked and their eyes maintain odd hues and colors. True Aestiva, even more so than Lesser Aestiva, are proud of their humanity and will gladly brag about it.

Lesser Aestiva
Lesser Aestiva are unstable beings. They are very strong, and use their enhanced strength to kill and consume anything that may contain Essence. The lack transformation abilities, and can't use Essence for anything other than strength or shapeshifting.

+2 STR, -2 CHA

Can't put skill points into any Essence-based Tree except Natural Attack or Shapeshift.

Gain Rough Flight Abilities

Natural Attack: STR+EP+2*SP+1d4 Damage

True Aestiva
True Aestiva are the ultimate dream of the Aestiva. They are strong, intelligent, and beautiful. They are obsessed with humanity, and will destroy anything that threatens to make them feel less than human. They can transform their arms seamlessly between a bird and humanoid form. They can't learn Essence for anything other than shapeshifting and strength enhancement.

+2 STR, +2 CHA, +2 INT

Can't put skill points into any Essence-based Tree except Natural Attack or Shapeshift.

+2 Bonus to hit for any Core-powered Essence Tool

Transform into a bird form

When in Bird form:
 * Smooth Flight Abilities
 * Natural Attack: STR+EP+2*SP+1d4 Damage