Asgardian

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Asgardians are a hardy and hawkish people. They are New Gods, and are a very populous race. Their home of Asgard exists in both real space and in the magical network of realms known as the Demiurge. The Asgardians see themselves as the protector of Yggdrasil and nine of the worlds closest to the root of their origin.

Asgard incorporates two races: the Aesir and the Vanir. The difference between them is so minimal that it's more a matter of culture than genetics. Aesir tend to be more physically capable and have an affinity for warfare, while the Vanir are more attuned to the Demiurge and the mystic realms.

Asgardians average between 6' and 6'5" in height, and weigh roughly 400-500 pounds. Even the least of Asgardians is capable of lifting several tons of weight, and their military forces can lift as much as 20 tons over their head. Natural extremes of heat and cold bother them little. They can tolerate radiation, significant impact force, and shrug off penetrating wounds. Their reflexes are somewhat faster than mortals, though their senses are not markedly superior. Most Asgardians have a sense for magic worming around them, even if it's just a low awareness at the back of their mind.

Though they enjoy drinking, sleeping, and eating, Asgardians are creatures of magic and will not die of deprivation. They don't have a need to respirate, either. Like all the New Gods, the Asgardians benefit from the All-Speak in that they can understand, and be understood by, any creature of the realms of the Demiurge. They are formed from magic, and while injuries may appear superfluously similar to mortal wounds, the damage is more a mirror of a metaphysical injury. Healing an Asgardian requires magic, not medicine. They are conveniently immune to almost all pathogens and toxins of a non-mystical nature.

An average Asgardian will live to be several centuries old. The Royal Family and elite members of the court consume a golden apple from the tree Idunn, once per year. This attunes them to Asgard's harmony and prolongs their life and health significantly.

As a culture, warfare is their first interest. All efforts support Odin's forces in the defense of the Nine Worlds and periodic expeditions to snuff out more distant threats. The military class is held in very high esteem. Asgard has a caste system for laborers, artisans, and other industries. Any Asgardian can attempt to join the military caste at any time, which allows for instant social elevation. There is a deep appreciation for good craftsmanship in Asgard, and their halls and homes are graced with the work of artisans with centuries of experience.