Yaxaas
The Yaxaas were a product of intense evolution of species within the Viridescent Shield. For centuries, there was a rapid evolutionary arms race among many species there, and it seemed that Yaxaas had won out. They founded many villages within the Shield, and until the most recent century, reigned supreme. However, over the last hundred years, species began evolving to hunt down Yaxass specifically, causing a schism in the crocodilian race. Some believe that settling into villages has made them weak and doomed the race, while others think the strength in numbers will be their only way of survival. Their numbers have begun greatly diminishing in recent times, leaving only the strongest of them.
Physical Appearance
Yaxaas are a bipedal, crocodilian race. They can get to about 6 feet tall while standing, though their length is greatly increased by their tail. Their backs and outer portions of their limbs are covered in dense, armored scales. Their undersides have paler, softer scales. They typically come in colors ranging from dark green to dark brown to black. They have a mouth full of sharp teeth, and sharp claws on their hands and feet. Snout size and shape will vary based on heritage.
Psychology
Yaxaas have almost always known a life of mortal combat with the dangers of the Shield. Their various cultures have developed around creating the mightiest of warriors and survivalists. They believe themselves to be superior to all others because of their combative nature. Yaxaas are quick to fight, not needing a reason beyond the love of it. Many of them tend to eschew things that could be interpreted as weak, unnecessary, or impractical. Nurturing is not common among them, believing that the strongest will always survive.
Reproduction
Yaxaas have two sexes, male and female. The male and female will mate, typically in water, in a loud and violent manner. Typically they will mate many times in a short span in order to guarantee fertilization of eggs. The female will then construct a nest and lay eggs. Incubation typically takes about a season before baby Yaxaas are born.
Aging
Upon being born, they are left to their own devices, not protected or cared for by their parents. They become sexually mature at twenty years, and can live for up to 150 years typically. They continue to grow during this time, but the rate of growth decreases sharply upon reaching maturity.
Abilities
Amphibious Prowess – The Yaxaas are equally capable of motion and their sensory perceptions when on land as well as in water. They are not diminished in any way when transition from either environment.
Languages
Yaxaan – a clicking and croaking language spoken by nearly all Yaxaas.