Species Profile

Bennu shifters

Bennu shifters are supernatural beings rooted in ancient Egyptian mythology, believed to be descended from the bennu—the soul of the sun god Ra made flesh in the form of a heron. Often considered the origin of the Greek and Roman phoenix myths, bennu shifters possess the power of fiery regeneration, rising reborn from flame with their wounds healed and strength restored.

They are stronger and faster than typical humans, immune to fire and heat, and can sprout fire wings capable of carrying them short distances. When they unleash their full power, they can burn with a touch. True to their namesake, bennu shifters can also transform into a heron.

Physical Characteristics

Bennu shifters are indistinguishable from ordinary humans in appearance, allowing them to move through the world undetected. However, when they call upon their power, blazing fire wings erupt from their backs, capable of carrying them short distances. During moments of heightened emotion—anger, passion, or distress—an observant eye might catch a flicker of flame dancing in their irises, a subtle but telltale sign of the fire that burns within them.

Culture & Society

Unlike many shifter species that organize into packs or large communal groups, bennu shifters tend to keep to tight-knit family units. These family bonds are deeply valued, often spanning generations and rooted in shared traditions tracing back to their ancient Egyptian origins. Bennu shifters are rare and tend to be private by nature, preferring to pass down their history, customs, and knowledge of their abilities within the family rather than through broader supernatural communities.

Powers & Abilities

Bennu shifters possess the power of fiery regeneration—upon death, if their body is set aflame, they are reborn from the ashes with their wounds healed and their strength fully restored. They are stronger and faster than ordinary humans, and they are completely immune to fire and heat. When they unleash their power, bennu shifters can summon blazing wings capable of carrying them short distances and burn objects or opponents with a mere touch. They can also shapeshift into a heron, staying true to the ancient bird form of their bennu ancestors.

Additional Information

Bennu Shifters

Born of ancient fire and the spirit of a sun god, bennu shifters are living embodiments of the phoenix myth—rising from the ashes, reborn and renewed, as they have for millennia.