THE_WORDSMITH

In this world, some say, the truth and the legends are the same. One such legend belonged to the protagonist, Valerian.

Valerian was an orphan, a boy blessed with a beautiful face, and everyone around him, could not help but want to play with him, till one day a prophet passing through their town pronounced him to be cursed. 

Since that day, the destiny of the boy seemed to have changed completely, he was shunned by everyone around him, and the gazes that were earlier filled with love and affection, now brimmed with disgust and hatred. 

The constant shunning and humiliation made the cheerful child grow up to be bitter and inexpectant. On his seventh birthday, things changed once again. 

This time, it was not the people around him who went through a change, but himself. As he grew up, Valerian became a legend in his own sense. 

The people sang of a boy, who could not speak, they shed tears for a boy, who could not grieve. He came from nowhere yet he was known everywhere. 

Would you like to know this legend? A story where a curse can become a blessing? A story of sacrifice, betrayal, determination, and secrets.

Valerian, The Legendary

Valerian was surprised to see the crowd moving around in the market. He spotted so many beastmen that his eyes did not know where to look at. Finally, Altamash said, "Master Valerian, it is bad manners to stare at someone."

The young man immediately awoke from his fascination and asked, "Your Eminence, these people come into being when a human and a magical beast copulate?"

Valerian had kept his voice down on purpose. Altamash nodded and said, "Yes, in ancient times, a few magical beasts had managed to master the magic and the secret of transforming into a human. However, they all had some of their beastly characteristics left.

These rare humanoids became a subject of attraction, and humans gradually accepted them. Thus the current scene, and yes, that is how the beastmen are born. Though the natives would rather have you call them Distincts."

Valerian thought about it and said, "Indeed, this term is very befitting of them."

Solaria, The High Priestess.