Valeynx

The Valeynx are a sapio-organic species of Vasacar that hail from the collective megastructures of Tyton.

Physical Description

Whilst the Valeynx's Kirone heritage still manifests in the form of Human-like features, their genetic manipulation and ecological adaptations have left them with a host of monstrous characteristics. Their lithe humanoid forms have four, five-digited limbs which are tipped with sharp nails. They possess a flexible tail that emerges from the base of their spine. Rather than hair, the Vaelynx have modified feathers that mimic the locks of humankind, indeed their whole body is, in fact, covered in a short coat of soft plumage. This hair-like structure does not grow on the palms, bottoms of the feet, the insides of the ears, or eyelids. Their ears are longer, and taper to a point. They have faces that closely resemble the structure of a human, the exception being that they have two pairs of sharp fangs and slitted pupils, giving them an almost predatory visage.

Enhanced Agility

The Valeynx have both physical characteristics and neurological adaptations and that make them suited to moving quickly and easily. Their musculature, when compared to humans, is denser with fast-twitch fibers; this means that their forms support quick, powerful movements rather than activities that require endurance. In addition, their dextrous tails provide balance when running or climbing, an example being that it can keep them from tumbling over when performing sharp turns.

Natural Cunning

Because the sapio-synthetic artificial intelligence governing the systems of Tyton often enjoys presenting environmental challenges that can't be overcome by stubborn resolve, the Vaelynx have developed an artful approach to problem solving. This natural ingenuity often contributes to their reputation as rogues among wider society.

Senses and Sleep Cycle

The hearing of a Valeynx is especially attuned to their environment, since their ears are of a longer shape, and are capable of a limited range of motion; this does not just serve to orient the ear canal for better aural faculty, it has also adapted to play a part in the species' displays of emotional expression. As for eyesight, they possess excellent nightvision, but are susceptible to being irritated, or even blinded by exposure to bright light. This sensitivity has lead to the species' adoption of a nocturnal sleep-wake cycle.

Teeth, and Diet

The Vaelynx's teeth mostly mimic a human structure, with the exception of lateral incisors and canines; the former now resembling sharp canine teeth, and the latter being longer and more prominent. While this would seem to suggest that the Valeynx would prefer a carnivorous diet, they still retain, and are often eager to consume an omnivorous selection of sustenance.

Nails

The claws of a Valeynx are short, sharp, and rooted to the bone. This enables them to climb rough terrain with more ease than most Vasacar. Having these short claws also means that when protection isn't on their minds, they tend to prefer open toed footware.

Feathers and skin

The skin and coat of a Valeynx come in a variety of natural colors that often stem from the land they hail from, or the race they belong to, but often the dermis will be of the same hue as the individual's plumage. It can be said that dying one's feathers plays a massive role in social expression, and cultural dynamics. Members of specific factions, or ethnicities, often wear markings of symbolic value. In a more pragmatic case, depending on whether their feathers match--or have been made to match--their surroundings, a Valeynx's plumage can help them camouflage into an environment.

Notable Valeynx

• Nyx