Archetypal species

The archetypal species are the descendants of the few creatures which sought patronage under the Guardians. Their close proximity and interactions with the Guardians' arcane power caused their ancestors to co-develop in an extremely uniform fashion, as well as instigating exponential growths in their populations. Their combined regularity in morphological development and enhanced growth-rate established the so-called archetype of species, all of which share a variety of physiological and psychological traits. Nevertheless, the archetypal species can be delineated into several distinct races or breeds.

Each race inherits the same basic bone and organ structure. They are primarily bipedal, each with a spinal column supporting a large cranium and brain, and a rib-cage supporting the heart and lungs. Each race inherits unique variations based on the species from which they developed. For example, aquarians are virtually unique in possessing air-breathing gills, while avians are unique is possessing a feather coat.

Some features vary depending on the specific bloodline. For example, a canine can inherit either digitigrade (raised heel) or plantigrade (planted heel) feet, depending on their genetic make-up. Similarly, some equines are born without hooves, although this is uncommon. This kind of hereditary mutation manifests itself in various ways, some times less predictably than others. Although advanced biomedical science can allow a great degree of certainty (up to 99.9%), various aspects such as fur and eye colour still evade genetic analysis to some extent.

Archetypal species possess markedly high intellectual capabilities when compared with non-archetypes, as well as a greater proclivity to learn the arcane arts. This makes archetypal species unique among other natural species, which are believed to be otherwise unable to perform arcane abilities.

Amphibians
Amphibians vary subtly in many aspects, but they all share a soft, hairless outer skin. Their fingers and toes are usually webbed, and their respiratory system can process both air and water. These factors, combined with keen night-vision, make amphibians an adaptable and hardy race.

Aquarians
Aquarians exhibit a toughened, scaly hide, marked by its variations in often brilliant and iridescent colours. Most possess gills which develop on either side of the neck or torso; the gills are typically bi-medial, but various conditions can restrict them to either water or air breathing. Fins can be found on the head and back, although they can also be found on the arms and legs. Most aquarians have webbed fingers and toes, making them excellent swimmers as one might expect.

Arachnids
TBD.

Arboreans
TBD.

Avians
TBD.

Bovine
TBD.

Canines
TBD.

Cervines
TBD.

Cetaceans
TBD.

Equines
TBD.

Felines
Felines are noted for their remarkably sensitive eyesight. They are among the fur-bearing species, often having a colourful, patterned coat. Most felines possess retractable claws on their hands and feet, giving them enhanced climbing and self-defence capabilities. Although, like most archetypal species, their eating habits are variable, felines are known to prefer a carnivorous diet.

Molluscs
TBD.

Primates
TBD.

Reptiles
TBD.

Ursines
TBD.