Mifajene
| Mifajene | |
|---|---|
| Image |  Photograph of a Mifajene at a riverbank |
| Plural | Mifajene |
| Spirit Origin | Tahami |
| Classification | Non-Human |
| Homeland | Balúrail |
| Average Height | 80–90 cm (standing upright) |
| Average Lifespan | 30–40 years |
| Distinction | Original inhabitants of Balúrail |
| Language | Mifajene |
Introduction
The Mifajene are an otter-like race native to Balúrail and its original inhabitants. Most live on the Mifajene Reservation in north-west Balúrail. A smaller number, known as free Mifajene, live in villages in Eimbuvère.
Origin and Nature
The Mifajene were created by Tahami, the Ascendant Spirit of bogs and swamps. They spread throughout the swamps of Balúrail and were its only inhabitants until the arrival of the humans who became the Tuzquão.
Biology and Physical Traits
The Mifajene resemble large otters. They have long, low bodies, short legs, webbed feet, a thick tapering tail, and dense waterproof fur, usually brown with a paler throat. They move on four legs and stand upright on their hind legs to use their forepaws, which are dexterous enough to handle tools. Standing, an adult is 80–90 cm tall.
They are strong swimmers and spend much of their time in the water. Their diet consists mainly of fish. Mifajene live 30–40 years.
Abilities and Osia
Most Mifajene are attuned to Tahami's Osia, known as Tragasia, which allows them to manipulate their swampy surroundings. They use it to build their homes and to help hunt for food.
Culture and Society
Mifajene society is tribal and decentralized, and originally consisted of numerous small bands. Since the arrival of the Tuzquão they have distinguished between free Mifajene and those who live on the reservation.
The Mifajene have hunted and relied on the Aerbicar for thousands of years, and depict it in their cave art.
Notable Settlements
- Mifajene Reservation, a semi-autonomous region of the League of Balúrail
- House of Tahami, the sacred seat of Tahami, on the reservation
- Pasiviq, the largest free village in Eimbuvère
Relations with Other Races
The Tuzquão displaced the Mifajene from most of Balúrail over several generations, and the early League of Balúrail subjugated the remaining population. Fewer than 4,000 free Mifajene remain in Eimbuvère.