Skinwalker

Skinwalkers are partially artificial beings that originated in the Americas, however, they have now spread worldwide. They are usually created when a mage uses a magical ritual, involving the pelt and blood and/or fluids of a beast, to transform themselves into a pseudo-werebeast. Skinwalker is the North American term, and in South America, they are known as the Nagual. Note: some skinwalkers are able to use ectoplasm, and some magical spells, to make a cloak if they so wish.

Appearance
Skinwalkers look pretty much human, however, as a result of the skinwalker ritual, they tend to have markings on their bodies that represent the animal that they can become, along with some animalistic features (such as hair that matches their animal pelt in color, and sometimes texture, and eyes that match their animal form). They usually dress like a normal human, however, one article of clothing that they have, usually a cloak, will be made of the pelt(s) of an animal.

Behavior
Most skinwalkers choose to live a wild lifestyle, shunning modern dwellings and conveniences to live in nature. Skinwalkers can either live alone, or they can live in remote villages. Skinwalkers can and do fall in love, and have children, however, these children are not born skinwalkers. Once they are old enough, however, the child will leave the village in order to find their own pelt/pelts in order to make their "cloak" (though this article of clothing can take the shape of anything). When they find and make said cloak, they then perform the ritual in front of the entire village. Skinwalkers are wary of strangers, and protective of their territory, however, they will make friends of those who seek it. They usually wish for someone to prove their sincerity by challenging them to single combat without external weapons (i.e. swords, spears, guns, etc.), using only hands and/or magic. If you can beat them, fair and square, then they will become a loyal, invaluable ally and friend. You can also become friends with one if you save him/her from danger.

Powers

 * Animal morphing: Skinwalkers are able to magically use the form and powers of the animal that provides the pelts that their cloak/clothing is made out of.
 * Vocal mimicry: Skinwalkers are able to use their voices to imitate any human or animal "voice" (if you will).
 * Invincibility: In their animal form, skinwalkers are immune to all forms of physical damage.
 * Animal communication: Skinwalkers are able to use their pelts to communicate with the animal species whose pelts comprise their cloaks/clothing.