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Linh was fairly confident that sixteen was too young to be worrying about her (currently nonexistent) career. Sophie said that in the human world, she’d be a year or so from touring colleges and deciding the field she’d work in for the rest of her life, though, so maybe she shouldn’t complain. Though most elves chose their paths early, plenty changed course after a few decades, or even a few centuries.
“Oh, Princess Purryfins, I want to be a murcat when I grow up,” she sighed. From the pool in the corner of her room, Princess Purryfins said nothing. Linh pretended that she’d offered a salient rebuttal in order to force herself onwards, but her heart wasn’t really in it.
“You’re right. I can’t be a murcat. Tam would be useless without me.”
“Who are you calling useless?” her brother shouted from the hall.
“No one!” Linh called back, smiling to herself. She pushed aside the letters from her various teachers—all suggesting people to shadow for a better idea of career paths—and grabbed the rough draft of her final project. Her career could wait. The paper, unfortunately, couldn’t. She stretched until she heard a few good pops, tightened her ponytail, and got back to work.
Lady Evera—I took some of your notes on my last draft into consideration and tried to work a bit more of my voice into entries. My friend Marella proofread it for me. Her peer review is attached. Sorry about the holes on page 5, Princess Purryfins chewed on the paper.
Unintelligent Species
Albertosaurus (Albertosaurus sarcophagus) - While superficially quite similar to the T-Rex, Albertosaurs have a large scaly patch on their stomachs—perfect for belly rubs! Because they hunted in packs and their already respectable size, they could hunt prey considerably larger than them.
Alicorn (Equusalatus monocerus) - This pegasus species (the common belief that alicorns are hybrids of unicorns and pegasi has been disproven by Ebraico et al) is often said to be the rarest creature on Earth. Until the discovery of a lone female, alicorns were facing extinction. They exhibit a number of unique skills, including teleportation, inflicting, and telepathy, which aided in their ability to evade conservation experts. Due to a type of bacteria in their gut, alicorns’ waste sparkles.
Apatosaurus (Apatosaurus ajax) - Apatosaurs are very large, but surprisingly light due to their holey bones (that is to say, bones with air sacs in them). Their tail is used for communication purposes, primarily by maneuvering it to signal to other Apatosaurs. These dinosaurs are herbivorous.
Argentavis (Argentavis magnificens) - These birds boast a large wingspan—almost 23 feet!—making them the largest birds in the world. Because of their flight style, where they primarily glide instead of flap their wings, they have a keen awareness of the wind. Archaic meteorological tools would utilize scavenged feathers as a catalyst to predict changes in wind currents. Their specialization means they rely on intimidation to defend themselves, using their size and their piercing cries to scare off competition—typically other carrion scavengers.
Arthropleura (Arthropleura armata) - Hikers may recognize arthropleura as “boulder bugs”. These arthropods will roll up when threatened, but have also been observed resting in this position. Though they primarily exercise defense, Arthropleura are also capable of attacking via an antenna covered in poison. It’s believed that certain plants in the Arthropleura diet contribute to their poison, as captive Arthropleura display considerably less potency.
Banshee (Mustela cadwelli) - These mustelids are most well-known for their keen sixth sense, which can detect the imminent threat of death. The exact means banshees use to sense this is still a subject of speculation in the zoological community. Because of their close association with death, they were historically maligned and seen as ill omens. However, their powers have also endeared them to many healers, who keep them as pets to monitor patient condition—and to give patients a furry friend to pet.
Bennu (Ardea bennuides) - Despite their appearance (described by Sobolik as “pathetic” in his ornithological compendium), Bennus are incredibly hardy birds. They have fire-resistant plumage and habitually settle in locations other species may find too dangerous, including within volcanic calderas.
Boobrie (Pinguinus flavum) - Human depictions of the boobrie often misidentify it as the “great auk”. In reality, the Boobrie is another species of Pinguinus which is only known to humans by their haunting cries.
Bugbear (Bradypervigilium hirsutus) - The bugbear hibernates in its shell for most of the year, and is consequently rarely seen. They prefer dark and warm places, particularly under the beds of humanoid species. During their infrequent waking periods, they will (attempt to) eat everything from small bugs to household detritus.
Cockatrice (Gallus squamatus) - In human legend, cockatrices are incredibly dangerous beasts, often said to be able to kill other beings with a single glance. Contrary to human belief, cockatrices are extremely docile, making for popular pets because of their temperament. Some banshee owners have found that their normally friendly mustelids will exhibit predatory behavior only in the presence of cockatrices.
Dire Wolf (Arnocyon dirus) - Dire wolves have extremely strong jaws, making their typical pack hunting strategy even more effective. While wolf packs are popularly seen as harsh environments, where only the strong survive, this is inaccurate. Canines—including dire wolves—will support their weakest members to the best of their abilities. It makes one wonder what other animal behaviors we intelligent species have misrepresented or misunderstood.
Dragon (Draconis) - The label “dragon” is more accurately applied to an entire genus of animals. Listing every species of dragon could indeed be its own bestiary. Generally, dragons are at least partially furred, displaying varying levels of sheen. Some of the most prominent dragon species include:
- Brittany Red or “True Dragon” (Draconis draconis) - Some debate regarding the classification of the Brittany Red as Draconis draconis has arisen in recent years. Brittany Reds tend to be upwards of 16 feet (~5 m) and have a sac of flammable bile in their throat which enables them to breathe fire.
- Peluda Dragon (Draconis peludae) - These dragons boast the longest coats of all dragon species, although their fur is interspersed with poisonous quills. This is believed to be a defense mechanism to compensate for their smaller stature (7 ft/2 m).
- Zhou’s Thunder-Speaker (Draconis viridis) - Averaging 30 ft (9 m) in length, these are the longest species of dragon, though not the largest (that honor goes to the Thoughtful Dragon, believed to be an endling). Their lack of wings has made their classification a hot topic among draconologists; they fly with the aid of altitude bladders.
- Drought Dragon (Draconis aestivus) - These dragons are not furred, instead being covered in cartilaginous scales that resemble dried earth. They have a habit of blocking streams and rivers while sleeping, giving them their name. Sizes range from 10 to 15 ft (3 to 4.5 m).
- Copse Drakon/Copse Dragon (Draconis iasonus) - Copse Drakons display tendencies similar to magpies, collecting shiny objects to adorn their nests. At less than 3 ft (under a meter), these are the smallest known dragon species.
Dunkleosteus (Dinichthys) - Members of the genus Dunkleosteus are all large, bony fish that live in the pelagic zone of bodies of water (pelagic referring to fish that inhabit areas neither too deep nor too shallow). Their bite force is incredibly high, capable of even shattering metal, which has led to problems in keeping species in captivity. Their shed scales are frequently collected by murcats to be used in their dens, likely because their durability is useful for sharpening claws.
Eckodon (Plesiosaurus latus) - Best known from the hijinks of the infamous “Nessie”, these dinosaurs inhabit bodies of water worldwide. Historically, some small coastal elvin communities have used eckodons to travel short distances. Most individuals prefer to live in underwater caverns, particularly as human colonization has become more widespread.
Eurypterid (Eurypterus remipes) - “Sea scorpions” have been domesticated by Atlantean elves since the city’s foundation. Legend says Ama-e, one of the founders of the first Atlantean settlement, was so enamored by the creatures that she spent a week studying their behavior. Despite their fearsome appearance, they’re extremely affectionate.
Flareadon (Pterodactylus aurantius) - A small species of pterosaur that primarily inhabits volcanic environments. In captivity, they require special care to maintain their high body temperature. Their fire-resistant fur is highly sought after.
Flickerwing (Photinus palustris) - Flickerwings spend their short lifespans feeding off of bioluminescent plants and fungi. They are particularly fond of splendors, whose glow is significantly stronger than other bioluminescent organics.
Ghoul (Civettictis braini) - Conservationists have had trouble keeping ghouls in captivity because of their necrophagous diet. It’s believed that ghouls evolved without hair to prevent the accumulation of detritus when they consume corpses.
Gorgodon (Gorgentaveridonus iunctura) - It’s a rare honor for any scientist to get to name a species, and yet I find myself in that position with the gorgodon. The gorgodon is a genetically modified animal; it is a combination of a flareadon, gorgonops, argentavis, and eurypterid. This gives them an incredible range of skills, though they are too dangerous to be allowed to roam, precluding study of these traits. As of writing, there is one gorgodon alive. I have named it “Quynh”.
Gorgonops (Hexaprotodon setosum) - Gorgonops were historically hunted for their teeth, resulting in their endangered status. They settle in muddy riverbeds, often digging out holes to bury themselves in while leaving only their eyes above the water.
Gremlin (Canis callidum) - With a love of shiny objects and an often destructive nature, gremlins are considered by many to be a pest animal. In recent years, however, there has been a growing number of elves taking gremlins as pets. Unlike standard canines, they are bipedal and possess opposable thumbs, which are nimble enough to dismantle even the most delicate machines.
Griffin (Regalis regalis) - Griffins are often called the “king of kings”—the lion being the king of beasts, and the eagle the king of birds. Historic record shows that griffin breeding was a popular hobby among some human nobility before fading out after the Peace Treaty. It’s been observed that griffins of both sexes will sometimes “adopt” egg-like stones, mistaking them for their young.
Gulon (Gulo graveolens) - A common proverb states “you’ll smell [a gulon] before you see [it],” and for good reason. Their smell, produced by numerous glands across their body, is a defense mechanism, as gulon are quite conflict-averse scavengers. They will store food in their underground burrows, termed “pantries” by biologists.
Halcyon (Halcyornis caerulea) - These small blue birds were another element of early weather prediction, as they can sense oncoming storms. Despite human conceptions of similar birds (see: kingfishers), these birds are silent.
Human (Homo sapiens) - In the past, humans would be listed alongside the other Intelligent Species. Humans currently inhabit and control most territory on Earth, and contact with them is currently heavily forbidden after the failure of the Human Assistance Program. The primary difference between humans and elves is the resilience of the human mind—they are more accustomed to grief, and they are also incredibly resourceful, leading to their success as a species.
Hypsilophodon (Hypsilophodon foxii) - In the wild, these dinosaurs lived almost exclusively on the Isle of Wight. However, all living specimens currently reside in elvin conservation facilities because of the Isle’s human occupants. Though they are omnivorous, they prefer to feed on plants. Their feathers are used to produce novelty speed elixirs, as hypsilophodons are agile because of their small size.
Ichrite (Saurophthirus exquisitus) - A kind of flea with a silver body, believed to have evolved to feed off of more potent, magical blood than that of normal animals. Because of their status as pest animals, they have been largely unstudied until recently.
Imp (Lincolni adustus) - These creatures are often kept as pets. However, they are prone to causing mischief, which is facilitated by their wings and unpleasant breath/flatulence.
Jackalope (Lepus bicornis) - While their populations have been assessed as Least Concern by conservationists, jackalopes are infamously hard to keep in captivity. They are extremely quick and largely live in isolation due to the territorial nature of jackalope males. Jackalopes have a peculiar fondness for a human beverage called whiskey.
Jaculus (Chrysopelea pennata) - Most species of the genus Chrysopelea merely glide, facilitated by contorting their bodies into a more aerodynamic shape, but the jaculus has true wings which extend from its body while in flight. Their venom is an anticoagulant, utilized because the serpent is an obligate hematophage.
Kelpie (Hydroequus) - Like dragons, “kelpie” refers to a genus of aquatic equines. The type species for the kelpie is the Alenon kelpie ( Hydroequus annae ), a freshwater species known for its habitat in the snowmelt-flooded waters of the Alenon River. Other species include:
- Spey Kelpie (Hydroequus candidum) - A species known for its shimmering white scales and its ability to “sing” via a blowhole-like organ on its forehead.
- Nix (Hydroequus vernale) - Nixes inhabit more temperate freshwater bodies. Like the Spey Kelpie, they have a blowhole, though nixies use theirs to mimic the human voice.
- Hippocampus (Hydroequus haliurus) - The most common variety of saltwater kelpies. There have been attempts to domesticate Hippocampi, particularly in Atlantis, but these have had mixed results.
- Ornate Hippocampus (Hydroequus haliurus versicolor) - A subspecies of Hippocampus known for its vibrant iridescent scales. These scales are highly prized for use in accessories like hair clips and cloak pins.
Kraken (Loxoplokami borealis) - Krakens are the largest known marine animals in the world. They prefer the cold glacial waters of the Arctic and Antarctic Circles. Despite popular conception—due to their ominous appearance—they don’t tend to be hostile unless they feel threatened. They live a reclusive existence in deep-sea environments, leading humans to assume their status as exaggerated reports of giant squids. Though they are similar to giant squids, krakens are substantially larger.
Lambeosaurus (Lambeosaurus magnicristatus) - These crested dinosaurs have long, fluffy coats and are prized for their wool. The human name is a mere coincidence, referring to the paleontologist responsible for discovering the species’s first fossil set. Their notable head crest increases their sense of smell, leading many elves to domesticate them in order to hunt truffles.
Larvagorn (Parabuthus tristis) - Larvagorns are regarded as a dwarven delicacy and can only be prepared by trained professionals, as their venom can be fatal, even if ingested in small amounts. Their sale is banned in the elvin world, though rumors persist that adventurous eaters may be able to try them, should they wish to break the law. Though lavagorns are most often found on land, eckodons display a noted preference towards preying on lavagorns.
Manticore (Regalis princeps) - The lesser-known cousin of griffins. They resemble lions, although with a scorpion tail and a row of venomous spines along their back. Manticore venom is a powerful sedative, often incapacitating the victim for days.
Mastodon (Mammut) - Believed to have contributed to human myths describing the one-eyed cyclops, these massive elephants are known to have grazed over many parts of the world. Their species tend to designate their location with minor evolutionary differences rather than substantial differences seen with kelpies and dragons.
Meganeura (Meganeura brongniarti) - Though they resemble dragonflies, they are more closely related to modern day beetles! In captivity, they require exercise, but must be leashed or they will fly off and get lost. They also need ample shade to avoid overheating.
Mermaid (Pseudostrophidon venustus) - Even longer than the similar Strophidon genus, these eels are often mistaken for the mermaids of human legend, lending it its common name. Like all morays, they have pharyngeal jaws, which they use to capture and restrain their prey.
Moonlark (Pavo argentea) - When sighted by humans, moonlarks are commonly mistaken for a leucistic specimen of the Indian peacock ( Pavo cristatus ). Moonlarks are otherwise quite rare and famously live solitary lives from the moment they are hatched. Attempts to record the songs that parents sing to their hatchlings have been famously unsuccessful—in one event (Nichet’s 1640 Expedition) proving fatal. In the rare event that a live specimen is located, moonlarks will dislodge any tracking implements placed on their body.
Murcat (Prionailurus aquaticus) - Believed to be a divergent evolution from species of Asiatic aquatic hunting cats which took to the water. Many are hesitant to take on murcats as pets, believing them to be too dangerous, but they’re really very sweet once you get to know them. A group of murcats is called a paddle!
Muskog (Bombina calva) - The pungent smell of the muskog is believed to be a camouflaging mechanism that allows them to integrate better with their primary habitat, standing and stagnant water. Though they are quite aggressive towards larger beings, they’re relatively harmless, though they are capable of producing a peptide that mildly irritates the skin and eyes.
Pannoniasaurus (Pannoniasaurus inexpectatus) - Though most mosasaurs thrive in marine environments, pannoniasaurs live in freshwater. They are quite similar to later species of crocodilians, even using the infamous “death roll” to subdue prey! Despite their obvious threat, some elves have been able to befriend pods of pannoniasaurs which inhabit the waters near Ravagog.
Pegasus (Equusalatus) - Legends among humans hold that all pegasi descend from one legendary progenitor, though this is a subject of ongoing debate amongst biologists. “Pegasus” once again refers to an entire genus, which encompasses many species of winged equines, including alicorns ( Equusalatus monocerus ). For your reading pleasure, here are a few pegasi species:
- Common Pegasus (Equusalatus fuscus) - The common pegasus ranges in color from blue to grey to brown, with various degrees of mottling. Pegasus breeding is primarily practiced with the Common Pegasus, as they are easier to domesticate than other species. They are quite stocky compared to unicorns, though standard among other pegasi.
- Attic Pegasus (Equusalatus bellerophoni) - Argued to be the most similar to the mythological progenitor, Attic Pegasi retain the pure white plumage that is often depicted in art. This species is classified as endangered due to their natural habitat (the Greek state of Attica) being lost to human land development.
- Tarhunz Grey (Equusalatus tarsa) - While all pegasi have hollow bones, Tarhunz Greys have particularly light skeletons that enable them to maneuver especially well while flying. Ancient elves (typically inebriated) would often dare each other to try and ride Greys, often leading to humorous failures.
Phoenix (Phoenicia candida) - Phoenixes have one of the most unique reproductive cycles in the animal kingdom. Mother phoenixes essentially sacrifice their lives for their chicks. Chicks develop in utero, only being “born” when the mother dies, leaving lone fathers to raise young. This entire process occurs in fire. Because of their specific reproductive circumstances, it is incredibly hard to study, though it’s long been a subject of interest.
Pooka (Andrias scheuchzeri) - This species of giant salamander is prized for its pus, which has extremely useful medicinal properties. It’s believed that they were hunted to extinction in the Forbidden Cities because of their utility. Conservation efforts have been extremely successful, but communities currently reside in protected areas to mitigate potential human contact.
Pterodactyl (Pterodactylus) - This genus contains many species of pterosaurs, including the famous but rare flareadon. Though often thought to be large creatures, the largest species in the genus, Pterodactylus poliocephalus , averages an adult wingspan of 4 ft (1.31 m).
Qilin (Aequilibria nitida) - Though “qilin” was often incorrectly translated as “unicorn” in the past, they are entirely unrelated to unicorns. Qilins may have one or two horns depending on genetics. They eat precious gems and metals, and have glittery coats that may change color depending on their diet. In the wild, they are naturally quite averse to human contact, leading to no elvin intervention on their behalf.
Raptor (Dromaeosauridae) - Unlike previous entries, this commonly used term refers not only to a genus or species, but to an entire family. As such, very few generalizations can be made that are accurate to all genera represented by the term. One of the most notable genera in Dromaeosauridae is Velociraptor , which are typically thought to be much larger than they actually are. Utahraptor , another member of the genus, are extremely aggressive and have been largely deemed too difficult to convert to the vegetarian diet of most captive carnivores.
Saber-Toothed Tiger (Smilodon) - These fearsome felines are best known for their impressive teeth. Though they were apex predators in their time, the declining population of their prey led to elvin intervention. Some elves keep them as pets, but this can be challenging, as saber-toothed cats jump on anything and everything, with an average standing jump height of 10 ft (3.05 m).
Sanguilisk (Platymusca magna) - As with some smaller hematophagic flies, the females of this species are considerably larger than the males, and require blood to reproduce.
Sasquatch (Nothanthropus dumetorum) - A species of the human-like Nothanthropus genus. Sasquatches are predominantly found in North America and have spawned many names such as “Bigfoot”, “Skunk ape”, “Bushman”, and “Big Muddy Monster”. Human expansion has rendered them an endangered species and made them more elusive than was established before colonization.
Selkie (Phoca chromapella) - Though historically inhabiting many northern coastlines, human expansion has driven most selkies to remote locations throughout the Lost Cities. They shed their skin regularly, often attracting hordes of Tredgeons onto shore.
Siren (Lepidolutra) - Perhaps no creature’s popular conception has been fractured as much as the humble siren’s. Oftentimes the only accurate part of a siren’s depiction is their propensity towards making loud noises. Sirens use a special organ in their throat to emit high-pitched whines which can temporarily stun their prey. Amongst elvin fishers, they were often thought to be good omens, as their appearance typically indicated a plentiful supply of fish.
Spinosaurus (Spinosaurus aegyptiacus) - Historically, spinosaurs settled in isolated branches of the Nile, often being mistaken for hippopotamuses. They are, however, perhaps more similar to crocodiles, primarily because they are also targets of aggression from hippos. The spines on their back serve to attract mates.
Stegosaurus (Stegosaurus) - Though stegosaurus species have dorsal protrusions, much like spinosauruses, their plates are used for temperature regulation. Stegosauruses are notably able to eat nearly any plants, regardless of their toxicity to other species (they have multiple stomachs which efficiently break down toxins) or physical composition (their teeth can chew even the hardest of woods).
Suncatcher (Megaeuplectes laetus) - Also known as the great gold widowbird, these birds are a curious species that appears to have evolved from small African sparrows (long-tailed widowbird, Euplectes progne ). Their magnificent tail feathers are highly prized, being used to make quills and to decorate hats. In the wild, suncatchers use their natural luminescence as a camouflage, blending in with the sun’s natural light and thereby concealing their presence to other creatures.
Titanoboa (Titanoboa) - These snakes reside deep underground, inadvertently evading human perception. Adults are typically around 45 ft (13.7 m) long, though the longest documented individual of the species, named “Slithering Sylvester”, was 59.7 ft (18.2 m). While above ground they are quite sluggish, but their subterranean speed is the fastest method of travel—barring teleportation or light leaping.
Tomple (Molliechinus multicrurae) - These distant relatives of hedgehogs have historically thrived in their native desert environment, feeding off of dust, dirt, and other detritus. They are often tolerated in the vicinity of Intelligent Species settlements because of their eating habits. Due to breeding with neighboring hedgehog species (desert hedgehog, Paraechinus aethiopicus ), there has been a proposed species for their offspring: Molliechinus contra .
Tredgeon (Blepharipoda giganta) - Unlike their fellow Blepharipodidae , these crabs can tunnel up to 10 miles (16.1 km) underground. Their diet consists of minerals alongside typical organic materials, which gives them a brilliant opalescent shell. This shell is highly prized by dwarves.
Tyrannosaurus Rex (Tyrannosaurus rex) - The T-Rex is perhaps the most famous dinosaur species in both the elvin and human worlds, and for good reason! It possesses an impressive stature and equally impressive teeth. In the wild, tyrannosaurs are pack hunters. Imagine being chased by an entire pack of T-Rexes!
Unicorn (Monoceros spectaculosus) - Though unicorns are well-known in both the elvin world and the human world, they are among the rarest, only dwarfed by the likes of the alicorn and the moonlark. 185 unicorns are known to be alive at the time of writing, with about half having been reintroduced to the wild. Legend holds that their horn, when ground into powder, can purify any water and cure even the most fatal of poisons, however there has not been much study into this stipulation due to the species’ endangered status. As reported by a keeper, one of a unicorn’s favorite snacks is pomegranates.
Verminion (Maxicricetus purpureus) - Often regarded as pest animals, verminions have large appetites and a willingness to eat nearly anything. They have been known to burrow through the stone foundations of buildings to create their nests. Like their smaller counterparts, verminions will store excess food in cheek pouches. It’s estimated that the average verminion produces 20 cubic feet (0.6 cubic meters) of fur every year.
Woolly Mammoth (Mammuthus primigenius) - The eponymous coats of woolly mammoths are incredibly soft and glossy due to the oil produced by their skin. Much like mastodons, they are widespread, though their thick coats confine them to colder climates than their southern cousins. Mammoth groups are matriarchal and nomadic.
Wyvern (Pseudodraconis guivrae) - Though they superficially resemble dragons, this is believed to be a product of convergent evolution. Wyvern saliva is venomous, though with proper treatment, can be turned into an effective antimicrobial salve. They hunt in a similar manner to peregrine falcons, wherein they soar high and dive steeply to reach very high speeds.
Yeti (Nothanthropus niveus) - Like their more temperate brethren, yetis are increasingly elusive due to the spread of humans into their natural habitats. Humans have found traces of their presence throughout the centuries, though most purported proof is fabricated by other humans due to the intervention of elvin authorities. Yeti urine is used as a topical burn salve.
Intelligent Species
Dwarf (Maxitalpa hirsuta) - Despite maintaining a sovereign nation, dwarves are officially considered to be endangered, with a population of only 298 at the time of writing. Unlike other Intelligent Species, they primarily reside underground due to their sensitivity to light. Dwarven ancestors were responsible for the discovery of Magsidian, a rare and powerful magical mineral.
Elf (Aelfus candidus) - A scientist must always be impartial! Elves are the most populous of the Intelligent Species and the establishing force behind the Peace Treaty. Elvin society centers around the manifestation of their special abilities, a byproduct of their connection to the magical fabric of Earth. Elves have taken initiative in preserving unintelligent species around the world, often concealing them from the prying eyes of humans. While other Intelligent Species have long lives, elves in particular are functionally immortal.
Gnome (Panakes ambulator) - Though elves have an interest in the preservation of the natural world, gnomes possess a true connection to nature. They are genetically more similar to plants than animals, with their sustenance being derived from photosynthesis. Photosynthesis provides them with far more energy than they can use in the course of a sedentary life, leading them to care for plants nearly every waking moment. Upon their death, gnomes will attempt to become the Panakes tree (Panakes florera), though purportedly, this process can fail. Gelsey, in Treatise on Panakae, suggests that the act of transforming into a tree—one which can cure nearly any ailment—is a process that originated as a means of furthering the lifespan of the species.
Goblin (Quirquinchus forctis) - Goblins have uniquely thick skin, much like the hide of an elephant or rhinoceros, to increase their resistance to attacks. Their metabolism is uniquely suited to building muscle and supporting growth. As such, goblins tend to be quite tall (the average height of an adult male goblin is 7.5 ft/2.29 m) and extremely muscular.
Ogre (Cutisax maximus) - There are numerous similarities between goblin and ogre physiology, suggesting a closer evolutionary link than just the established common ancestor of all intelligent species. Their stone-like skin is believed to be an evolved trait that allowed them to more effectively camouflage in the mountainous environments that proto-ogres (ogrish ancestors) called home.
Troll (Mirusaeculus acutus) - Perhaps the most notable feature of trolls’ physiology is their aging process. Though often described as “aging in reverse”, this is a misconception. The nutrients diverted to fetal trolls throughout gestation makes newborn trolls incredibly strong, though their brains are still not fully developed. In contrast, older trolls, who have expended all resources imparted in the womb, suffer from substantial musculoskeletal degeneration, though their brains reach full development. This is an insufficient summary of their biology, so readers are encouraged to consult Trolls: Quandaries of Age by Seiki Sigridsson for a fuller examination of their aging process.