THE ELKAI

The elkai are a race of kin that closely resembles the elk of Earth. They have several breeds, each with unique appearances and locations like the dekai which are deer-like in appearance and usually reside in Eingalde. The carikai are similar to caribou and have been seen in the far reaches of Elaska. The most versatile breed of the elkai are the alkai which are moose-kin. They are more commonly seen in Eingalde and New Eingalde, but can also live in unusual regions such as the Isles of Ikuda as well as Elaska. Like many of the beastkin, the elkai appear humanoid in body and facial features with telling signs of their bestial traits that make up their veneer. They have noses that can either be long and pointed or round and button-like with the tips usually darkened in color or light. The eyes are usually almond shaped with females sporting larger ones. Their ears are narrowed and pointed and can either be angled upright or outward with the size varying from wide to thin. The mouth and teeth of elkai are flat and have no visible fangs. There is a rare breed, however that will sport elongated fangs protruding downward from their mouths. Most elkai have antlers growing from the top of their heads with the females typically lacking them save for the females of the carikai race. Having antlers adorn their heads makes for denser skulls and sturdier necks.

Much like the volkari whose horns are for aesthetics purposes, the antlers of the elkai are also seen as a display of show. Young elkai who have just grown their antlers will still use them for joisting play before they get older and dress them for more sexual appeal. The courting of an elkai is often flashy and unromantic, with the male presenting his desired mate with gifts like expensive silk clothing or jewelry. It isn't uncommon for an elkai to have multiple wives whom will all live with each other within a small community, much like a herd with a dominate bull. The lifespan of an elkai is considered to be long lived as they are the first borns of the demi-Gods known as the kai. This brings them close to the magical adeptness their ancestors hold making them one of the most resourceful magi in the world. Not only does this mean they have a compelling soul affinity for magica, but their homeland, Einglade, happens to house one of the Trees of Magica which contains the element aeo. This creates a free flow of magica that courses throughout Einglade, giving prosperity to its land and kin.