Werewolves

Werewolves are an embryonic subset of humans that have a distinct history, culture, and special powers.

Appearance
Werewolves, in their human form, look like any other human except for a few things. They normally have darker skin and features, and they often have yellow eyes, sharpened teeth, and pointier ears.

In werewolf form, they take on the shape of anthropomorphic animals. They normally retain physical markers, such as scars, and can be distinguished from one another.

Transformation
Werewolves have the ability to transform between their human and werewolf forms. While in werewolf form, they have increased senses and strength. The adjustment period is an hour, but the transformation itself only takes a few seconds.

Modifiers: +2 Str, +2 Dex, +2 Con, -2 Cha

Gain Nightvision 60 ft

Gain Melee Claw Attack [ 1d4 per Skill Point]

Essence Manipulation
Werewolves have a small affinity for Essence, each possessing a developed animamae. While many werewolves choose not to focus on this, those that do have the potential to develop into great sages. Since they are born with an animamae, they develop induced traits later. They have a heightened resistance against the destructive elements of Essence consumption

History and Culture
It's said the original werewolf was one who, believing in pre-Fey myths about werewolves, thought that by consuming Essence would turn him into a werewolf. In a self-fulfilling prophecy, that person became the first werewolf, for reasons not entirely known. Since then their children spread across the land. Due to their enhanced strength and combat ability, they soon formed the Mond Clan in what would become Mandolin. They gained a fair amount of power and money, and went through their cultural renaissance. It was only later that their leader was assassinated. The heir to the Mond Clan was indecisive and inefficient. Resulting in-fighting led to the dissolution of the Mond Clan, though the werewolf people are still around today.

Many cultural practices of the Mond people stem from a more lavish time. They focus on hospitality, community, and faith. Many werewolves actually operate in the service sector, a direct result of their hospitable natures. Those that rely on their werewolf forms often become mercenaries. Many werewolves are the descendant of old religions, and employ the belief in Sages who possess the ability to pick up hints about the future. Regardless, these Sages are often wise leaders and form the backbone of the community.