Otsuakuge—Rough Draft

*CLASSIFICATION*
	Otsuakuge — “King Tails” aka Lizardfolk, Draconians

*CHARACTERISTICS & PHYSIOLOGY*
	Otsuakuge are burly, tall and drastically imposing beings. The majority of their hulking forms are enveloped in incredibly durable, tightly crowded scales; the few places where scales are absent, there is instead very thick yet surprisingly smooth skin.

Underneath this resilient hide rests a system of fat that acts as both insulation and an extra layer of protection, it also further defining the softness of the brutish dragonoid’s body. Beneath it all lies an unreasonably powerful musculature that is supported by a skeletal frame boasting an abnormally high bone density.

They are reptilian humanoids. Their head, in addition to their abdominal and pelvic regions, are comparable to humans in form and function, with their extended limbs noticeably less so. Their arms and legs extend into meaty, saurian digits that end in long, fearsome claws, and the one or two pairs of horns protruding from atop their scalp usually rake backwards and partly twist as they grow.

Their single, massive tail is iconic to this species, so much so that they have been given an alias regarding it. For a bipedal race, the tail is unusually large and lengthy; it is outrageously strong and packed tight with muscle, able to independently propel a swimming otsuakuge at impressive speeds and even crush solid stone, among other feats.

There are no subspecies categories for this race, although traits of dimorphism are common.

While the average pigmentation involves a combination of black scales and one of many grayish skin tones, members of the species may develop scales colored dark bronze or rustic reds; these can be littered with a pattern of black speckles, all while having skin tones revolving around tans and browns. Dark, faded stripes decorate both variations, although they are nearly imperceptible to the eye among black scaled individuals.

Their figure and complexion is fairly deceptive in that their dense musculature is well-hidden, despite their massive size and bulky form. They sport a strong maw filled with pointed, razor sharp incisors and additional sets of canines, all elongated. In place of molars, their jaws contain even more pointed teeth, these ones cone-shaped and wider the deeper into one’s mouth they reside.

Otsuakuge hair is present with every dimorphism and always bearing the same qualities. It grows thick and can reach extensive lengths if kept uncut, and primarily forms atop the head, around the pubic region and sometimes underneath the arms—this can include anywhere from simply a patch of hair located exclusively within the armpit to reaching all the way to the elbow.

A large tuft of fur can also grow from the tip of their tail, but not always. Even rarer cases display excessive fur replacing scales, covering up to every scaled region of the body, although this extremity is practically unheard of.

[ _Unconfirmed Statistics_: The inner layout of their bodies (e.g. inside the mouth, internal organs, etc.) is unique in that it boasts lighter pigmentation, the coloration dependent upon dimorphism; black-scales usually have cool colors, with bronze having warm. Blends of these are not unheard of, but it is exceedingly rare. Their bodily liquids are also said to be bioluminescent; this includes tears, which are said to grant otsuakuge an eerie, glowing stare in dim light.]

*DISTRIBUTION & HABITAT*
	The otsuakuge appear to have adapted through evolution to live in near every environment, with the minimal exceptions of places bearing incredibly extreme temperatures; living exclusively underwater is also impossible due to the need to breathe air, but some individuals have adapted to oceanic lifestyles where they can survive a considerable amount of time alone amidst the open sea while having no material aide.

Their preferred habitats include warm climates and places rife with cluttered terrain, such as tropical rainforests or mountainous deserts. Places of origin can also be directly linked to an otsuakuge’s dimorphic heritage, with black scaled individuals usually hailing from humid regions while bronze species are commonly found in arid climates.

Those having excessive fur normally reside around colder areas, with fur becoming more prominent the further the drop in temperature.

Otsuakuge are less likely to accommodate urban environments, favoring to live among the wilderness where their advantageous, superior physical feats are best suited. Nonetheless, it is not uncommon for a small group to be found thriving deep within large urban territory, including some metropolises.

*BEHAVIOR & CULTURE*
	The “King’s Tail”s are an individualistic race, yet they are commonly found living in largely social communities. While every member is expected to fend for themself, it is not unusual for several to collaborate and take part in the completion of a shared objective, whether this be a simple hunt or dealing with an opposing threat.

The typical community may contain any number leading up to several hundred males and females, although it is not unheard of for groupings to exceed a few thousand. In any case, they are not led nor directed by a leader—for every otsuakuge is his or her own master—but rather there are always who demand the respect of all others, beings who reign supreme among them.

This is the patriarch and matriarch of the community. Known as “Harrege” for males and “Errapari” in the case of females respectively, and either roughly translates to “predator king”. The only way to attain this position is primarily through strength and size, with the latter being the more significant factor.

In the eyes of their race, these two hierarchical authorities are entitled to everything, beings deserving of the first, the best, and even the last of any particular thing. When it comes to food, they are the first to feed, and in regards to territory, they are privileged exclusive rights to the most resourceful and beneficial locations. The list goes on.

Each of these sole individuals gains his/her status through raw demonstration and exposition: many vying for either position will perform feats of great physical strength and endurance. Males typically outperform females of equal size in the strength category, but it is the females who usually come out on top.

Not only does a female regularly stand taller than her male counterparts, but she also has breasts, which are also counted towards her overall mass. That said, a female who is the same height of a rival male would regularly be deemed superior. Otherwise, potential contenders may wrestle and brawl should size comparisons be uncertain.

Encounters between two or more Harrege or Errapari usually end up with comparisons being made and one being determined the absolute authority of those involved. However, should a Harrege cross paths with an Errapari, a fight will most likely occur, with the victor asserting their dominance. In this case, each keeps their title, merely being expected to yield to the other should a situation call for it.

Otsuakuge are naturally keen in recognizing their personal strengths and weaknesses, and are adept at sizing up their opponents. Most outcomes between themselves can be determined before a fight even begins, and matches are commonly short-lived. Nonetheless, in cases when there is no clear indication of superiority to be found, the reptilian brutes will go at it many hours at a time before one rises victorious.

Battle for dominance is brutal, despite it all being little more than a test of strength. Yet, there is almost no actual malice between the contenders, including when one loses. It is relatively easy for an otsuakuge to accept his/her inferiority.

The demoralization of one’s loss is overshadowed by an instinctual respect for the one(s) who bested them, and a newly rising admiration develops in turn. They are a highly competitive species, so it wont be long before they become motivated to grow larger and train harder in order to once more challenge their peers for the top spot.

In treatment of other races, an otsuakuge will normally tolerate a member of any other species at best, with very few exceptions. Regarding individuals of a “wild” community specifically, they will either pay little to no attention to encroaching races or find them to be something worth their intrigue and investigate, sometimes attempting a capture.

Should intruders be regarded as a significant disturbance or threat, they will be killed and eaten, regardless of race or sapience. Prisoners are treated as slaves, pets, and/or property, with favorable individuals eventually becoming perceived as potential mates.

When living among other races, especially in urban environments, those not of their kind are typically treated with little regard. The otsuakuge nonetheless will adopt a suitable behavior in situations that call for it.

One may show a meek and humble attitude when undertaking a position of service, or express a silent and serious demeanor if employed as a bodyguard, but in every case the otsuakuge is studious and advantageous. When they see something they want and a favorable opportunity presents itself, they will devise a calculated approach before striking swiftly and meticulously.

They are as diligent as they are competitive when it comes to pursuing a particular desire and will be exceedingly patient and persistent regarding it, displaying characteristics which are usually quite absent from their otherwise lax and carefree nature.

They are also very skilled at masking their intentions, able to effortlessly engage in direct conversation and extensive activities while in the presence of a wanted object or person, including the item/individual itself, without displaying a hint of their desire.

For instance, a man will become immensely shocked to one day find himself cornered in a secluded alleyway by none other than a quiet otsuakuge acquaintance he’d known for many years, discovering far too late that he’d been a target since the very first day of their initial meeting.

*FORAGING & DIET*
	Otsuakuge are strictly carnivorous, yet seem to have no trouble digesting vegetation and a multitude of inorganic material. In an effort to devour flesh and bone, one might accidentally consume things such as dirt, stone, or even fabric and light equipment (should their prey be wearing any).

But overall, the only material that may give them an upset stomach are metal objects, with smaller items (nails, small tools, silverware, etc.) doing little to disrupt their digestive track.

They are opportunistic, and not too picky in regards to their food, but they will prefer to not work very hard in acquiring it. Whether it be through earning wages by standing in place most of the day as a hired guard or bouncer, or merely setting traps and waiting in ambush for a local prey, many a lizardfolk finds enjoyment in being able to fill their stomachs without much effort.

Nonetheless, they have no problem working for their food if they have to, although they will usually choose the quickest methods in doing so, no matter the route or strategy.

They hate being hungry, and they will defend their meals with abnormal ferocity. Otsuakuge also hate wastefulness, especially in regards to food, and in the scenario where one has already had their fill yet still manages to acquire a prey item, they will do what they can to preserve it. They will not however raise livestock, manage fisheries, or the like, but these tasks may be assigned to prisoners.

When hunting for their quarry, simple traps and ambush tactics are the primary methods. While they are very simplistic by preference, otsuakuge know very well that certain tools can do far more than simply relieve one of having to do hard work.

Weapons are unnecessary in most cases, but traps are highly favored and sought after if only because they almost completely relieve one from having to chase after quick-footed prey or a slippery potential mate. Yet, they still prefer simplicity, so in turn their choice in traps are as basic as they get: bear traps, pitfalls, and several varieties of tripwire setups are among the most popular.

As far as equipment for subduing targets beyond their reach is concerned, a good rock is decent enough. They are not foolish however, and thus when pursuing a potential mate they will resort to less inhumane methods.

*REPRODUCTION*
	Otsuakuge of either gender prefer a weaker, smaller partner, and as such it is quite common for them to pursue species from other races and mate with them—of course, should an Errapari or Harrege desire one of their own, the individual in question will be willing to make an exception and yield to the Errapari/Harrege’s advances.

Despite their scaly hide and reptilian nature, they are more than capable of crossbreeding, and are even regarded to have a hybridization compatibility that is comparable to the anjikyu and humans themselves.

They are also viviparous, and the children born from a cross-species coupling will inherit the species of their mothers, with the offspring of a non-otsuakuge mother inheriting minor traits from the draconic father (e.g. a larger frame, thicker skin, etc.). Such traits will not be passed on to the child’s own offspring.

Within any sexual encounter, otsuakuge will make certain that they are seen as the dominant one on their partner's eyes. Before intercourse actually begins, they will corner their mate before either pinning or wrapping them up in their tail.

Should their mate resist, they will gently yet firmly encourage them to comply, and should they refuse further they will resort to force. An uncooperative mate will be raped mercilessly, but a submissive one will be allowed an astonishing amount of freedom during the mating process. It is common for them to abandon an unwilling/uncooperative partner; otherwise they will tend to mate for life.

In contrast to their vast strength and usual aloofness, they are surprisingly passionate yet sensitive lovers, being extraordinarily gentle—almost timid—and considerate about their partner’s well-being. They will even attempt to court a potential mate prior to making a direct approach, using their massive tails to suggestively rub along their deemed mate’s back or chest, all while staring expectantly.

The target of their advances should take great care in denying them, for while the otsuakuge may honor a refusal, they will most likely return at a later time; if they are continuously rejected in this way, they will eventually proceed to force themselves onto their chosen mate.

The best course of action to take when receiving such unwanted solicitation is to leave their territory and not come back. Returning after a time will only greatly encourage the otsuakuge into claiming you before another escape can occur.

The only thing they seem to prioritize over food is their immediate family, and it is pretty easy for one to become immensely distraught should they cause harm to those they have become attached with. Anyone who injures one of their own will be pursued and potentially killed, and whether the corpse is eaten or not depends on the situation, but it is not regarded as food in this case.