Shapeshifter

Legend

“Suddenly, a husk rips apart or distorts beyond imagination, revealing a being able to shift its shape into its lingering guest—shape.”

“Annoyed by the caravan guards, she suddenly shifted into a gruesome black bear.”

—Skjald Valgrif

 

Description

No one, not even gods, understands why it is possible, but certain creatures have a guest spirit residing within their physical body. These visitors often arrive throughout childhood and just rest quietly within their host. Some, however, join when the hosts are adults or even in their old age, as a result of the hosts’ deeds. These spirits are known as fylgia, and they are discernible by individuals who can see auras because of their distinct aura colour blends.

Fylgia seldom connects at birth, although it does occur, and in exceedingly rare situations, two or more join. Bull—Varg, the hero, had both of his fylgia accompanying him when he was born. These unusual circumstances frequently result in youngsters with a stronger proclivity for shapeshifting since their husk mastery is weak. Because they typically startle the simple—minded and superstitious, these children are frequently pushed into the wilderness, exiled from their community, family, and friends. They simply scare other people, especially when a couple have taken residence, which is extremely rare.

So, when you encounter an adult who can shape change, they are either masters of their spirit guests or they are a spinning whirlwind of emotions. Easily dealt with by people who can see auras, and somewhat more difficult for those who have deep empathy. But often a problem for the unperceptive, because they irritate both host and fylgia.

“The rogues bothered him while he was trying to enjoy his meal. Rising, he shifted and then snapped their table in half.”

—Skjald Yell'a'Beard

 

History

The very first shape-changing occurred when the older divines evolved from their previous states, but because this was not a dual-spirit incident, it does not count. However, there is evidence that as the Boriac emerged from the astral, they encountered shapeshifters. So it must have started with Archaic people, as they are the eldest of races. However, it is difficult to tell for certain because numerous old sagas mention ancient shapeshifting incidents.

“Nargh, the healer-shaman, didn’t fancy the Boriac coming on to her, so she shifted.”

—Skjald Sejrik

 

Organisation

The Shapeshifters have organised themselves into different schools, trying to aid those shifting uncontrollably early in life.

“Disliking the ‘to the wild’ habit, Olfinia Anasta offered her garden as sanctuary.”

—Skjald El Mary

 

Special

Generally, the possession spirit only emerges in one shape, but it is known that polyshaping can occur.

“Emerging, it shaped him like a T’Aurs but with a werewolf torso and legs.”

—Skjald Sigurd