Mshdyne

Mshdyne (also stylized as Myshdyne) are a race of goran or goblin-like, sentient creatures hailing from the forests of Gamsye. Their name comes from the Vald words 'Mhish' (beast) and 'Dheng' (bush), likely due to these beastfolk living among trees and shrubs. Unlike most goran, Mshdyne are social with humans and have fairly complex societies. Mshdyne frequently learn the culture of men and can often be seen trading simple goods at fairs. Mshdyne are rarely treated with hostility in their homeland of Gamsye as they are seen as functioning members of society. However, outside the kingdom, Mshdyne find themselves stereotyped with other goran and may be imprisoned or killed on sight. To avoid this, the twelve bands of Mshdyne adopted a formalized dress or dynnera, to distinguish themselves from other goblinfolk. However, especially in far-away regions, this may not be enough to convince natives. As such, many Mshdyne find it safest to remain in Gamsye or nearby provinces. Although, there are outcrops of Mshdyne living in the Khavald, Dhoria, and Maneria.

Appearance
Mshdyne are often three to four feet tall. Their skin is olive to dark green, the former often found closest to the mountains in the north of Gamsye. Unlike other goran, Mshdyne frequently grow and style their hair with many having red to brown locks which they frequently braid. Mshdyne are clawless and have blunt, square teeth, more traits separating them from other goblinfolk.

Culture
Mshdyne culture is based in tribal society. Mshdyne form bands they call 'pawta' ("families"), which contain three to four generations descending from one patriarch or matriarch. If the Mshdyne worship a patriarch they are called 'paw-rir'. Similarly, if they worship a matriarch they are called 'paw-dir'. On occasion, a family may split into two or more smaller pawta. Mshdyne traditionally follow the teachings of a great ancestor but many have incorporated Gamsyean religion as well. Mshdyne often farm beans and corn and avoid eating meat at all costs. Certain Mshdyne sects make exceptions for animals that were sickly or troublesome as well as fish, which they do not see as creatures of the forest. Mshdyne consider themselves the keepers of the forests and as such rarely fell trees or kill animals living within the growth. Mshdyne rarely build tools out of metal and instead prefer fine woods or stones.