A neko subspecies idea I had based upon the bakeneko/nekomata of Japanese folklore.
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Nekomata
A subspecies of neko, they are for the most part found within the evernight forest where several tribes exist. Physically they resemble the typical neko morphology save for a few differences which include paler skin and hair, a more slender build, and their most distinguishing physical trait, as well as their most interesting one, the possession of two tails instead of one. These tails are slightly longer than a normal neko's, and function just as well.
Nekomata are excellent climbers, even amongst neko standards, and often build their villages within the treetops. Another trait is their ability to produce "ghost fire", a skill that comes naturally to them. They have great control over this, being able to simple able to sprout tiny flames from their fingertips to completely engulfing their bodies. The flames neither produce heat nor burn, but can be a good source of light as well as an excellent ward against ghosts and spirits as it affects them as a normal flame affects a corporeal being. Nekomata can use this flame to "mark" areas, after which the ghostly fire will linger on for several hours before eventually dying out. Finally, most nekomata have the ability to sense the presence of spirits, even making out their outline in some instances. Highly skilled nekomatan shamans further this natural ability, being able to talk to the recently deceased through practices that they refuse to share with outsiders.
Nekomata who leave the tribes in order to live in cities such as Negav or Nekomura are often employed as mystics due to their natural spiritual abilities.
A rumor has arose saying that Nekomata have the ability to shape-shift into a feline form, though it appears to be nothing more than an urban legend. Those that believe it, however, tend to view the nekomata with a great distrust due to the dangers they could supposedly hold.
Subject: Nekomata 
Sat Sep 04, 2010 6:02 pm
