Talmus
Talmus is a realm of magick, faith, intrigue, and danger. It was once home to a single race known as beastkin, humanoids believed to have evolved from their animal ancestors. For generations, they were the only sentient beings of this world, until outsiders from other worlds arrived and claimed it as their own. Despite tensions between these races and the beastkin, our story focuses on those who can see past their disparities and find solace in one another’s company.
The Desert Cities
A significant part of the narrative occurs in the region known as the Desert Cities, which is deeply influenced by diverse cultures. Each culture is portrayed with appreciation and depicted beautifully through writing and illustrations. The story involves extensive travel to various locations, each with its own distinct influences and rich cultural identity.
The Faith
Faith plays a crucial role in the Fated mythos. Although the Gods are typically inactive on Talmus, there are designated individuals who carry out their will and act on their behalf – these are known as acolytes. Only a select few possess the ability to communicate with or see the Gods, earning them the title of saints. This gift is rare and bestowed upon only one member of each sect within the Faith.
The Faith is divided into various branches or orders, each with its own specific goals and aspirations. In total, there are fourteen major orders that hold significant influence and power.
Talmans
Beastkin
Beastkin make up the majority of Talmus’ population, and they come in a diverse range of shapes, sizes, and characteristics. Each type of Beastkin is identified by a proper name that indicates their specific animal or beast heritage. With thousands of distinct types, each Beastkin has its own appearance and naming traditions.
Humans
The humans are the second-largest population among the people of Talmus. They originated from three tribes that were created to bring chaos to Talmus. As time passed, these tribes evolved and intermingled with other groups, eventually forgetting their initial purpose. Though they have integrated with other populations over the years, there are still some who hold onto beliefs of human superiority over “Demi-humans.”
Elves
Travelers from an unknown realm stumbled upon the world of Talmus by chance. The welcoming nature of the inhabitants, known as beastkin, quickly led to their integration into society. However, some elves chose to retreat into the seclusion of the forests, where they live in hiding.
Dwarves
The dwarves are a reclusive group of individuals, primarily found in the far reaches of the North. They prefer to live within the protective walls of their northern cities and keep to themselves, only allowing trusted individuals into their midst. However, this does not mean that dwarves cannot be found in other regions. In fact, their long lifespans often lead them to seek out adventure and journey across the world in search of purpose.
Devilkin
A collective of individuals who possess the blood of a devil running through their veins. This could be attributed to an ancient pact made by their ancestors, or perhaps even a direct lineage from a devil itself. Regardless, devilkin are usually bound by the devil who controls their heritage. These devils often influence the young devilkin to act upon their most primal desires.
Unfortunately, many devilkin children are abandoned or thrown away. In more harsh societies, these children are often taken into the wild and left to fend for themselves.
Heavensent
Those who have celestial lineage or have the blood of Elysium running through their veins. They are said to have unique and otherworldly beauty. By and large, Heavensent are known for being messengers of angelic figures and called to do good throughout their life. Many famed and heroic figures throughout Talman legends are Heavensent.
Shape-shifters
Changeling, Doppelgängers, and the like. These groups of people are often seen on the outskirts of society…or not at all. Some of the oldest shape-shifters will forget their true appearance and will shift between many personas and forms.
Others
There are dozens of other fantasy races in the world of Talmus, however, the above-mentioned are ones which are seen or known to be more common. There are also monstrous groups as well such as Goblins, Orcs, and Vampires. These groups are not necessarily evil, and each individual follows their own path in life.