Sometimes referred to as Children of the Convergence or Beastfolk, the Therans were directly born from the remains of the Subjurforged. Once twisted abominations born from a fusion of alchemy, Hordeling blood, and brutal experimentation on animals. They were granted sentience and free will during the Therianthropic Convergence. Ever since, the Therans are a dominant presence in the world, Though all share this common origin, each sub-race has since followed its own path, shaping Ignisar around them in ways uniquely their own.
The history of the Therans is a story of violent creation, chaotic vengeance, and eventual peace-building. Their origins lie in The Throne War, when Humanity, in a desperate attempt to counter the Luminary's arcane superiority, began horrific experiments on animals. Using a combination of arcane alchemy, Hordeling blood, and animal test subjects, they created the Subjurforged, creatures with sharp minds and honed instincts but whose wills were utterly shattered, making them perfect, obedient weapons of war. Their corrupted blood was contagious, twisting animals into mindless thralls and turning nature itself against the Luminary. This culminated in the complete destruction of the Luminary nation of Maraya.
The war reached a catastrophic peak triggering the Therianthropic Convergence. In this single event, all Subjurforged were granted true sentience and a connection to The Breath. This marked the end of the war and the beginning of the The Era of Beasts, a 150-year period of chaos where the newly born Therans, filled with rage, sought vengeance against their human creators. Humanity's largest kingdom: The Kingdom of Arnewynd was completely torn apart by the very monsters it had unleashed.
However, not all Therans embraced destruction. In one example, in the lands that would become the Kingdom of Concordia, some of the first awakened Therans felt the warmth of the sun and chose peace, refusing to become like their creators. After 150 years, now referred to as the The Era of Accords, the races of Ignisar began to forge a new peace. Bird Therans acted as mediators, and the Sevenfold Commonwealth was established, uniting the major Theran races under a shared system of laws and governance. Key figures like the Deerfolk diplomat Allura Hershkowitz and the Wolffolk warrior Fenrir Wrymslayer were instrumental in shaping this new society.
Theran society is multifaceted, with a wide range of cultures, beliefs, and social structures depending on their original animal species. In the example of the Sevenfold Commonwealth, the six major Theran races there established peace with the Human's of the remains of the Kingdom of Arnewynd, now known as Arnewynd's Endure.
Their alliance is governed by the Council of Seven, a body of elected representatives who oversee law and diplomacy. While they are united politically, cultural differences persist.
A significant point of divergence is the worship of Idols. Deerfolk and Bearfolk tend to embrace the practice, celebrating individuals who embody great virtues. In contrast, Wolffolk traditionally reject idol worship, believing that revering an individual diminishes the collective effort that defines their people. Scholars would agree that many Therans in Sevenfold have overtaken the original positions, standing and even social systems established by Humanity. And thus, social hierarchies and prejudice remain prevalent. The high society of Velvetglade, largely composed of Deerfolk families often looks down on other sub-races. Similar behavior have been observed by the Foxfolk in Spellwhisk. The term "Savages" is sometimes used by other races to describe Therans, akin to the Hordelings. A bitter reminder of their violent origins.
Wolffolk are fierce and proud, raised to honor strength, tradition, and the pack above all else. Loyalty is expected of every Wolffolk, for to serve the pack is to uphold their very identity. Yet their wild hearts burn with passion, and many feel the pull of personal desires such as love, ambition, or the call of the open road. This divide between duty and yearning defines them: loyalty binds, but passion drives.
Deerfolk are elegant and influential, long regarded as natural diplomats among the Therans. With their graceful bearing and measured words, they have historically played central roles in times of negotiation and treaty, guiding feuding parties toward peace with patience and tact. Refinement comes naturally to them, and their talents in the many forms of art cannot be denied.
Foxfolk are celebrated for their quick minds and natural affinity for the arcane. Among the Therans, few can match their hunger for discovery, their restless curiosity driving them to explore, question, and invent. Their keen intelligence often sets them apart, and many Foxfolk find their place as scholars, artisans, spellcasters, and storytellers, always striving to uncover hidden truths or refine what already exists.
Bearfolk are stoic and steadfast, and by far the rarest of the Therans. Known for their unshakable sense of self, Bearfolk rarely falter in their convictions, and their presence alone can inspire confidence in others. Once they commit themselves to a cause or a companion, they will hold their ground with immovable determination, standing firm against any threat until the very end.
Taufolk possess a gentle nature that belies their massive, imposing stature. Standing tall and broad-shouldered with long, sweeping horns and heavy coats that shield them from harsh climates. To outsiders, their soft-spoken manner and thoughtful silences might suggest passivity, yet this is a mistake. Beneath their calm demeanor lies a formidable strength and a will not easily bent.
Harefolk are clever and cunning, quick of mind and even quicker of foot. Their agility and sharp wits have long been their greatest assets, allowing them to navigate both social and natural landscapes with ease. They may be underestimated by larger or stronger peoples, but those who do so often learn too late that Harefolk excel at turning obstacles to their advantage.
Felinefolk are prideful and magnificent, exuding presence and authority wherever they go. Their culture prizes strength, pragmatism, and the wisdom to act decisively, even in morally complex situations. They are open-minded in life and love. They follow spiritual traditions that honor the Sun and the cycles of nature. They often embrace guiding philosophies such as, “Gold doesn’t change the weight of guilt, but it can build new foundations.” reflecting a society that values action and responsibility over idle judgment. (Felinefolk encompass lions, tigers, panthers, and other large cats.)
Birdfolk are a diverse and vibrant people, ranging from wise owls to colorful parrots and everything in between. Some follow the call of the seasons, migrating across vast distances, while others remain in the same territory year-round. Some thrive in the bright light of day, while others are creatures of shadow and twilight. Birdfolk are renowned for their diplomacy and vision. They were among the first to lay the groundwork for a new world peace, using their perspective, adaptability, and keen insight to bridge differences and foster understanding among the Therans
Reptilefolk's origins are still shrouded in mystery though first recorded after the Convergence. Lizardfolk, often mistaken for Water Dragonfolk, are at home in the oceans yet surprisingly capable on land. Serpentfolk bear magical and poison resistance, manifesting serpentine traits such as forked tongues, snake-like eyes, or even tails in some of the strongest individuals. Turtlefolk once lived in quiet seclusion along the shores of the Moondrop Wilds, rarely interacting with outsiders but often aiding castaways in unexpected ways, and enjoying lifespans far beyond other Therans.
Elephantfolk are calm and serene, their presence radiating patience and wisdom. They move deliberately, speaking rarely but with weight and clarity, offering guidance and counsel to those who seek it. Deeply connected to their communities, they embody harmony and balance, mediating disputes and fostering understanding. Though physically powerful, their true strength lies in their tranquil nature, their ability to remain composed even in the face of chaos.
