Skaven
In the distant past, rats infesting some decaying ruins are thought to have fed upon a mighty source of dark magic power. This powers was a substance called ‘warpstone’ - solidified fragments of raw sorcery. Under its unwholesome influence the scuttling vermin mutated, growing in size and intelligence, into the vile Skaven. The now seek to bring corruption and decay to the world of Man and Elf, causing the downfall of all civilized races so they can feed on the ruins and dominate all living creatures. The skaven worship their dark god, Ikmek, the Horned Rat (cf gods of MD).
Skaven, though about three-quarters the mass of a average human, rarely appear that large due to their hunched-over walk. They are almost always bent over, with small, clawed front hands. Their tails are long and relatively thick, the skin being barren of fur, like their hands, feet, and muzzled-faces. Skaven often have protruding, bucked front teeth, and pointed ears on top of their heads. Their fur can range in color, but is usually black.