Uncommon Races of Dharrenal

While humans, elves, dwarves, and the other common races are certainly the most prolific races to call Dharrenal home, they are not the only ones. Some people can go their entire lives without ever meeting a member of these races, though they are certainly more common in bigger cities.

## **Uncommon Races**

### **Aasimar (Nephilim)**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 15 years; average lifespan ~150 years
* **Homeland:** Human Lands; The Golden City of Seraphel
* **Language:** Enoccian (also called "Celestial")

Aasimar bear within their souls the light of the heavens. Nobody is sure what the origin of the species is, but like their infernal counterparts, the tieflings, the prevailing theory is that they were first spawned in the Dawn Age, when humans consorted with angels, resulting in the otherworldly, beautiful aasimar. While they have angelic blood, they are by no means all good.

Most Aasimars are born thinking they are human before their divine nature reveals itself around puberty. From an early age, they receive visions and guidance from celestial entities via dreams. These dreams are meant to shape an assimar, granting a sense of destiny and a desire for righteousness. However, their free will as mortals can often skew this calling and there are those who come to see their abilities as a curse.

These disaffected assimar are typically content to turn away from the world, living as hermits in hinterlands or the Frostweald. A few become agents of evil. In their minds, their exposure to celestial powers amounted to little more than brainwashing. Such fallen Aasimar make deadly foes, the radiant power they once had corrupted into a horrid, draining magic. And their angelic guide abandons them, leaving them truly alone in the world.

Due to the purposeful nature of an aasimar’s creation, most have an angelic guide to provide them guidance, though only in their dreams. Thus, the angel’s guidance is not a command or a spoken word, but instead usually visions, prophecies, and feelings. This being is far from omniscient, providing guidance only by its own insight into the tenents of law and good.

Despite being celestial in nature, Aasimar find it no easier to fit in as Tieflings; Aasimars are sometimes declared heretics, and some religious organizations claim Aasimars are false prophets, as an angel would never have congress with a human. Because of this, Aasimars try to keep a low profile, though they tend to inevitably draw the ire of evil creatures or spirits wherever they go.

#### **Aasimar Attributes**

* +2 WIS, +2 CHA; -2 CON; Aasimars are insightful, confident, and personable.
* **Type:** Outsider (Native)
* **SIze:** Medium size; base speed 30 ft.
* **Darkvision** - 60 ft.
* **Dream Messenger:** Cast *Augury* as a spell-like ability 1/day
* **Angelic Magic:** Aasimar are blessed with a spark of angelic magic, able to sense the presence of evil like a noxious fume and bring light even to the darkest of places. An Aasimar with a CHA of at least 10 is able to cast the *Detect Evil* spell at-will. An Aasimar with a CHA of at least 13 can also cast *Daylight* once per day.
* **Celestial Resistance:** Aasimars have acid resistance 5, cold resistance 5, and electricity resistance 5.
* **Keen Senses:** Aasimar have a +2 racial bonus on Perception checks.
* **Personable:** Aasimar have a +2 racial bonus on Diplomacy checks.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Bullywug (Bul)**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity at 1 year; Average lifespan of ~24 years
* **Homeland:** Swamps throughout Dharrenal
* **Language:** Croak (also called "Bullywug" or "Froggish")

Bullywugs are a race of humanoid frogs that stand just over 4 feet tall and have mottled green and brown skin. They are a race of primitive hunter-gatherers, living on large insects, berries, and fish found in their swampland homes, and are unconcerned about events outside their marsh.

The rare bullywug who leaves the safety of the swamp tends to be seeking to trade for metal or gems, or the exceptional individuals who have the ambition to become something more.

Bullywug live in small villages of squat mud huts in wetlands and bogs throughout Dharrenal. They fight in large groups, specializing in ambushes and poisons. They are highly superstitious, finding omens in most things around them. Their entire civilization is a theocracy, the leader of a bullywug village being a female shaman who is said to speak for "Froghemoth", the deity of the bullywug people.

#### **Bullywug Attributes**

* +2 DEX, +2 Wis, -2 STR; Bullywug are nimble and alert, but spindly.
* Small size (+1 AC & attack rolls vs. Medium; +4 Hide, -4 penalty to Grapple; carrying capacity is 3/4 that of a Medium creature)
* Base landspeed 30 ft., Climb Speed 20 ft.
* Low-Light Vision
* **Type:** Humanoid (Reptilian)
* **Camouflage:** Bullywugs receive a +4 racial bonus on Stealth checks in marshes and forested areas.
* **Defensive Training:** Bullywug often live in close proximity to very large animals and dangerous creatures they must learn to avoid in order to survive. They gain a +2 dodge bonus to AC against Large or larger Animals and Magical Beasts.
* **Frog Legs:** A Bullywug may add a +4 bonus to checks made to jump, and always treat a jump as if it were a running jump.
* **Swamp Stride:** A Bullywug can move through difficult terrain at its normal speed while within a swamp. Magically altered terrain affects a bullywug normally.
* **Weapon Familiarity:** Bullywug are proficient with blowguns and nets.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Catfolk, Ronso**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 15 years; average lifespan ~70 years
* **Homeland:** The Trackless Desert, the Katol Mountains, the Dawnrise Mountains, Slazka
* **Language:** Merar (also called "Catfolk")

The Ronso are a breed of muscular, tall catfolk native to mountainous regions, and the Trackless Desert. They are known to be formidable warriors, renowned for their strong sense of honor and loyalty, as well as their pride and quickness to anger. Like all Catfolk, the Ronso are a nomadic people, traveling through the mountainous, cold places of Dharrenal. They are an insular, secretive people who do not share their secrets with outsiders.

They see themselves as protectors of the natural world, and have a general disdain toward humans and dwarves, and many ronso tribes have gone to war with goliath tribes over territory. The Ronso do not make buildings, instead living in caves and tents made of specially-treated hides.

Ronso tend to resemble large predatory cats, like lions or tigers. They do not mince words and have little respect for those who have not earned it. They are creatures of honor, and one of their most sacred traditions is the duel, usually held without armor and fought only with their claws.The Ronso society is a meritocracy; to lead, you must earn it and lead by example. There is no words for deception or cowardice in Ronso society.

#### **Ronso Attributes**

* +2 STR, +2 Wis, -2 CHA
* Medium Size, base landspeed 30 ft.
* Low-Light Vision
* **Type:** Humanoid (Beastfolk)
* **Claws:** Ronso have fierce claws capable of penetrating stone. They can use these as natural weapons. These claws are primary attacks that deal 1d4+STR points of damage.
* **Climber:** Ronso hunters excel at hunting prey from trees and other high vantage points. They possess a climb speed of 20 feet (along with the +8 racial bonus on Climb checks a climb speed affords).

* **Feline Empathy:** +4 bonus to Handle Animal checks (feline beasts only)
* **Scent:** Ronso have a keen sense of smell, gaining the *Scent* ability.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Catfolk, Tabaxi**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 13 years; average lifespan ~60 years
* **Homeland:** The Eastern Plains, Lucain Coast
* **Language:** Merar (also called "Catfolk"

The Tabaxi are a race of catfolk who wander the steppes and plains of Dharrenal, driven by curiosity to collect interesting artifacts, gather tales and stories, and see as many of the world's wonders as they possibly can. The ultimate travelers, the Tabaxi rarely stay in one place for long. Their innate nature pushes them to leave no secrets uncovered, no treasures or legends lost.

The great tribes of tabaxi roam where they will, putting passion into every moment of their varied lives. These nomads roam the grassy plains, living in tribes that are segregated by their physical traits. Unlike the Ronso, the Tabaxi are much smaller (rarely breaking 5 feet) and lithe, but are much faster and extremely clever with a good head for numbers. Quick in movement and thought, tabaxi rely on short bursts of energy to accomplish nearly any task, making other races seem plodding and dedicated in comparison. They respect gnomes, who seem to get where the tabaxi are coming from.

Tabaxi tend to travel in large family-based tribes, governed by a council of wise elders. There are no gender roles in tabaxi society, with both genders considered equal in every way. They tend to keep to their own, wandering close to human fringe settlements in small groups to trade. The tabaxi roam great distances in their travels and do not become attached to specific territories the way other humanoid nomads do.

The tabaxi are deeply spiritual, usually worshipping Fharlanghn, the god of horizons and travel. Some follow the teachings of the nature god, Obad-Hai, and others still respect Melora or even Olidimmara. Few tabaxi hold much respect for Pelor, Heironeous, St. Cuthbert, or other gods popular in human lands.

#### **Tabaxi Attributes**

* +2 Dex, +2 Cha, -2 Wis; tabaxi are sociable and agile, but often lack common sense.
* Medium size; base landspeed 40 ft.
* Low Light Vision
* **Type:** Humanoid (Beastfolk)
* **Claws:** Tabaxi have fierce claws capable of penetrating stone. They can use these as natural weapons. These claws are primary attacks that deal 1d4+STR points of damage.
* **Feline Empathy:** +4 bonus to Handle Animal checks (feline beasts only)
* **Natural Hunters:** Tabaxi receive a +2 racial bonus on Perception, Stealth, and Survival checks.
* **Nine Lives:** Once per day when a catfolk makes a Reflex saving throw, he can roll the saving throw twice and take the better result. He must decide to use this ability before the saving throw is attempted.
* **Sprinter:** +10 foot bonus to landspeed when charging or running.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Dhampir (Yarenghul)**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity ~15 years; average lifespan of ~200 years
* **Homeland:** Slazka, Vanar
* **Language:**  Common, Cultural

The half-living children of vampires and human mothers, dhampirs are born into a word that rejects them out of hand. Stigma and suspicion follow them regardless of whether the truth of their nature is known. This mistrust often forces them to develop either a disarming wit and charm, or to embrace their bitterness and keep others at arm's length through guile or outright intimidation.

Few dhampirs find solace with their undead forebears. As living creatures, even tainted ones, the reality of living with an evil, blood-drinking monster seldom appeals even as they struggle with their own urges and hunger. Dhampirs struggle to find acceptance both within society and within themselves. They suffer from troubles pasts and intrinsic corruption that gnaws at civilized thoughts and behavior. They shun the light and find both safety and comfort in the darkness. Enticed and repulsed by mortals at the same time, this constant struggle is at the core of a dhampir's existence.

They appear much like humans at first glance. Adults stand between 5 and 6 feet tall, but are more slender than the average human. Their hair and skin run the vast spectrum of human tones (usually favoring their mother) though tend to be slightly pale. Their eyes, however, almost universally take after their dark fathers: yellow, amber, or red, predatory, and black when on the attack.

For most dhampirs, family is all that they have. Immediate kin might be the only source of solace for a dhampir raised by a mortal family. Driven away by the unconscious or superstitious beliefs of their peers, families containing a dhampir can easily become clannish and reclusive. They learn to keep the world at a distance to protect themselves and their loved ones. Other times, dhampirs are shunned even by their families, cast out to the streets or the forests to fend for themselves. Conversely, particularly in certain areas in Slazka, some dhampirs are born into bloodlines that have deliberately cultivated their tainted nature. True vampire patrons oversee such bloodlines. Such a family holds the dhampir and their blood in the highest regard.

Dhampirs are capable of surviving in a cosmopolitan community, such as a large city, more easily; they find they are tolerated more easily here. This has more to do with the relative anonymity in such places than true acceptance.

#### **Dhampir Attributes**

* +2 CHA and +2 STR or DEX; -2 CON
* Medium size, landspeet 30 feet
* **Type:** Humanoid (Undead)
* **Darkvision -** 60 ft.
* **Dark Thirst:** You can bite as an unarmed strike against an incapacitated or restrained target. Your bite deals 1d4 piercing damage, and if the creature has blood and isn't a construct or undead, you can feed from it as part of the attack. Your feeding deals necrotic damage equal to your CHA modifier (minimum of 1) and if your target takes damage you heal hit points equal to twice the damage dealt *or* removes the Fatigued or Afraid conditions.
* **Keen Senses:** You have a +2 bonus to Perception checks.
* **Light Sensitivity:** Dhampirs are dazzled in areas of bright light or within the radius of a Daylight spell.
* **Predatory Charm:** As an action, you can magically beguile the mind of a creature you can see within 30 feet. For 1 hour, you gain a +4 bonus to Charisma checks made against the target. If you or any allies attack or damage the target, the effect ends. When the effect ends, the target feels afraid and/or repulsed by you, and if they fail a DC 12 Will save, they will become hostile toward you until the next dawn. A hostile target doesn't have to attack you on sight, but will refuse to speak or deal with you in any way, and may try other ways to hinder you. You can only use this ability on a creature once per day.
* **Undead Resistance:** You gain a +2 bonus on saving throws made to resist disease and mind-affecting effects.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Dragonborn (*Dray*)**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 13 years; average lifespan ~100 years
* **Homeland:** Arkhosia (Bahamite); The Dune Sea of Casmaron (Tiamite); Seraphel
* **Language:** Low Draconic

The Dragonborn of Tyrind have lived in near-isolation for centuries, keeping to the lands of Casmaron to guard their culture, their secrets, and their rites from the opportunistic human cultures that have spread across the world.

The dragonborn have a history of conflict with their own people, with their people split into two main ethnic groups--the Bahamite and the Tiamite. During the Dawn War, when the gods and primordials went to war, the dragonborn people chose two different sides: the Bahamites chose to fight for the gods, much like other humanoid races, and the Tiamites sided with the Primordials. This has created a bitter rivalry that lasts into today.

The Dragonborn hail from the southern continent of Casmaron, though travel is common for their people, from ambassadors attempting to forge new alliances to adventurers on a quest to recover some relic for their people. Dragonborn have long dwelled in Seraphel, as well, so their presence is not entirely unheard of in Dharrenal.

The Bahamites stem from a Metallic bloodline and tend to possess tails from birth. Untrusting of outsiders by nature, the Bahamites hold an aloof and elitist air throughout their interactions with other races in the world, and attempts to build alliances are often stymied by pride and misunderstanding.

The Tiamites stem from a Chromatic bloodline and do not possess tails. They are tribal, nomadic, and aggressive with a brutal warrior culture and strict caste system.

#### **Dragonborn Attributes**

* +2 CON, +2 CHA, -2 DEX; Dragonborn tend to be mighty with proud bearings, but are often less than graceful on their feet.
* Medium size, based landspeed 30 ft.
* **Type -** Humanoid (Dragon)
	+ *Draconic Immunity -* Immune to Magical Sleep and Paralysis effects.
* **Darkvision -** 60 ft.
* **Low Light Vision**
* **Draconic Heritage:** All dragonborn have a draconic heritage (see above). This heritage grants them Resistance to a specific element and a breath weapon determined by their heritage. See the above table for more information.
* **Breath Weapon:** Once per day, a Dragnoborn can unleash a breath weapon. The elemental damage and size of the cone is indicated on the table above. This attack deals 1d6 elemental damage, plus 1d6 for every three levels (2d6 at 3rd level, 3d6 at 6th level, 4d6 at 9th level, etc). Affected creatures get a saving throw, taking only half damage on a successful saving throw.
* **Draconic Mein:** +2 racial bonus to Diplomacy and Intimidate
* **Elemental Resistance:** A dragonborn gains Resistance 5 depending on their draconic heritage.
* **Fearless:** +2 to saving throws against Fear effects.

 \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Drow**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 20 years; average lifespan ~200 years
* **Homeland:** Xandir
* **Language:** Drowa (also called "Drow"); Drow Sign-Language

Few elves wish to be associated with their degenerate, twisted cousins--while most humanoids know them as Dark Elves, or Moon Elves, the elves of Illan instead call them Drow. In times long past, they were a wise, beautiful people with long, silvery hair and skin of ash. They were close allies, equal children in the eyes of Corellon Larethian to the Sun Elves, and they were the rulers of night and winter. The music and voices of the drow were like a haunting winter's wind.

But with time, their society grew decadent and cruel, and their leaders fell to the alluring whispers of the Titan known as the Spider Queen, and they allied with their venomous mistress against the sun elves and against Corellon during the war with the Titans. When the Spider Queen was defeated, the drow were cast out from elven society and formed their own civilization in the shadow of the Katol Mountains.

The drow are strong, intelligent, aloof, reserved, and considered by many to be ill-fated. They are an isolationist people, keeping to themselves except for the occasional raiding party into neighboring kingdoms. They harbor a bitter hatred of the sun elves, considering themselves superior. The drow today are notoriously decadent, petty, bloodthirsty, and cruel.

Magic permeates every facet of a drow's life; they have used magic to warp their environment into something almost alien, and their society operates on a strict hierarchy that largely depends on magical ability and power. As such, every drow knows a smattering of arcane magic, and most drow are knowledgeable about magic. Ambition and magical power are hallmarks of their people. The ruling elite use magic to spy on, to sedate, and to punish those beneath them. Drow slaves live inhumane lives of demeaning labor, suffering, humiliation, and torment.

As the counterparts to the sun elves of Illan, the drow are magically connected to the energy of the moon, and are at their most powerful in the light of the moon. The autumn and winter are their time. Their natural abilities in stealth and speed make them well-suited to the work of assassins.

#### **Drow Attributes**

* +2 DEX, +2 CHA, -2 CON; Drow are nimble and manipulative.
* Medium size, based landspeed 30 ft.
* **Superior Darkvision -** 120 ft.
* **Drow Magic:** A Drow with an INT of 10 can cast *Dancing Lights* and *Faerie Fire* once per day each as a spell-like ability.
	+ A drow with an INT of 13 or higher can also cast *Darkness* once per day as a spell-like ability.
* **Elf Immunities:** Like other elves, Drow are immune to magic sleep effects and gain a +2 racial bonus on saving throws against enchantment spells and effects.
* **Esoteric Knowledge:** +2 Spellcraft
* **Keen Senses:** Drow gain a +2 racial bonus on Perception checks.
* **Light Blindness:** Coming from the sunless land of Xandir, drow suffer from light blindness. Abrupt exposure to any bright light blinds drow for 1 round. On subsequent rounds, they are dazzled as long as they remain in the affected area.
* **Poison Use:** Drow are skilled in the use of poisons and never risk accidentally poisoning themselves.
* **Skulker:** +2 Listen & Move Silently
* **Weapon Familiarity:** Drow are proficient with the hand crossbow, rapier, and shortsword.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Faun**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity at 10 years old; average lifespan of ~50.
* **Homeland:** The Forest of Illan, Slazka, Vanar, the Frostweald
* **Language:** Sylvan

Of the various fey races that roam Dharrenal, the faun are among the most benevolent. Generally playful, quick-witted, flighty, and highly social, fauns delight in games and revelry, music and dance, sarcasm and satire. Their society is marked by a strange social economy of slights and favors, repaying the former tenaciously with mischief rather than violence, and the latter with a fervor bordering on religious.

Female fauns tend to stick in small groups, with males rarely staying with them past reaching maturity. Males often travel alone or pairs at the most. Fauns of all walks never tell their true names; such knowledge is kept a closely guarded secret their entire lives outside of faun society. Instead, fauns go by nicknames.

Fauns tend to be jovial; they delight in singing, dancing, debauchery, and feasting. They are known for having simple sort of wisdom, believing strongly in common sense. They have remarkable perception, with a keen eye for omens and keen insight.

They tend to balance toward chaos and mischief, neither leaning toward good or evil. Fauns rail against law and authority. They live peaceful existences in the forests and are friends of beasts, especially deer, sheep, and goats. The songs of their panflutes and singing can be heard from all corners of the wood, and fauns see themselves as shepherds of the wood.

Fauns dislike large cities and large crowds, preferring the quiet of the wilds.

#### **Species Attributes**

* +2 Dex, +2 Cha, -2 Int; Fauns are friendly and nimble, but not the most educated creatures.
* Medium size, base landspeed 40 feet
* Low-Light Vision
* **Type:** Fey (Immune to spells only affecting humanoids, such as *Charm Person*and *Hold Person;*+2 to saves vs. Enchantment spells or effects.)
	+ Vulnerability to Cold Iron.
* **Enchanting Song:** Once per day, you can play your panflute to perform one of the following spells as a spell-like ability: *Ghost Sound, Silent Image,* or *Sleep.* Add +1 to the Difficulty Class for all saving throws against enchantment spells cast by fauns.
	+ This adjustment stacks with similar effects, such as *Spell Focus*.

* **Gift of Gab:** Faun are talkative and insightful. They gain a +2 racial bonus on Diplomacy checks and Sense Motive checks.
* **Pan's Blessing:** +2 bonus to Perform (Panflute) or Perform (Sing) checks.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Firbolg**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 30; average lifespan ~300 years
* **Homeland:** Forests of Dharrenal
* **Language:** Dethek (also called "Giant")

Humble giantkin who dwell in remote forest homes, the firbolg are a peaceful people who prefer to spend their days in quiet harmony with the woods. When provoked, firbolgs demonstrate formidable skills with both weapons and magic. They are intelligent philosophers, and they usually live in small, loosely-affiliated colonies, though you’d be hard pressed to call a small collection of ecologically-friendly cabins a settlement.

Firbolgs love nothing more than a peaceful day spent among the trees of an old forest. They see forests as sacred places, representing the heart of the world and monuments to the perseverance of life. In their role as caretakers of the wild, they live off the land while striving to remain in balance with nature. In their eyes, there is no greater fault than greed, believing that the world remains healthiest only when they take what they need.

They are pacifists by nature. Even in the face of intrusion, firbolg prefer a subtle, gentle approach to prevent damage to their territory. But when driven to war, the firbolg is a terrifying sight, indeed. Like the goliath, the Firbolg are distant cousins to giants, and they are known to wield massive weapons capable of cleaving grown men in two.

They don't tend to like cities, finding them crowded, noisy, and too cut off from the natural world for their liking. Animals are their friends and some older firbolgs even have the ability to shapeshift into great beasts to protect their domains and their charges. Firbolgs are universally vegetarian and abhor the idea of eating the flesh of animals.

Firbolgs stand between 6 and 7 feet tall, and are covered in dark, thick hair that is almost like fur. Their skin is a strange pale blue to grey. All firbolg have almost bovine-like ears, and some firbolg have noticeably more bovine facial traits than others. This is largely dependent on location; as fey-like creatures, their physical appearance can change drastically depending on their homeland.

#### **Firbolg Attributes**

* +2 STR, +2 WIS, -2 CHA; Firbolg are calm and observant with a connection to the wilds, but they tend to be awkward and strange to other races.
* Medium size, base landspeed 30 ft.
* **Type:** Humanoid (Giant)
* **Firbolg Magic:** *Detect Magic & Speak with Animals* once per day as a spell-like ability.
	+ A Firbolg with an INT of 13 or higher can turn Invisible for 1 round, once per day as a supernatural ability.
* **Sneaky:** +2 bonus to Stealth checks. This increases to +4 when in a forest environment.
* **Powerful Build:** The physical stature of firbolg lets them function in many ways as if they were one size category larger. Whenever a firbolg is subject to a size modifier or special size modifier for a Combat Maneuver Bonus or Combat Maneuver Defense (such as during grapple checks, bull rush attempts, and trip attempts), the firbolg is treated as one size larger if doing so is advantageous to him. A firbolg is also considered to be one size larger when determining whether a creature’s special attacks based on size (such as grab or swallow whole) can affect him. A firbolg can use weapons designed for a creature one size larger without penalty. However, his space and reach remain those of a creature of his actual size. The benefts of this racial trait stack with the effects of powers, abilities, and spells that change the subject’s size category.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### Gnoll

* **Lifespan:** Maturity at 12 years; average lifespan ~25 years but they CAN live up to 70 years,
* **Homeland:** N/A
* **Language:** Yip (Gnoll); gnolls cannot speak other tongues but they can understand them

The average gnoll views the virtues of work and self-sufficiency with distaste. Gnolls with leadership skills or who tire of sharing the fruits of their labors frequently break off from their packs to fend for themselves. Sometimes, a gnoll might foolishly announce they are more fit to lead, and after being soundly defeated, are exiled from the pack.

On very rare occasions, gnolls might use their brawn and hunting instincts to their advantage, and sell their services as mercenaries and on even rare occasions, find themselves a part of adventuring parties. Their naturally savage nature and bestial intellect make it...*difficult* to adapt into society, but those with the will to learn, to face danger, and play as a part of a team make excellent adventurers.

#### **Gnoll Attributes**

* +2 Str, -2 CHA, -4 INT; Gnolls are quite strong, but they are savage and primitive.
* Medium size, base landspeed 30 ft.
* **Darkvision -** 60 ft.
* **Type:** Monstrous Humanoid
* **Bully:** Although gnolls are cowardly at heart, they like to disguise these fears by bullying others. You gain a +2 bonus to Intimidate checks and deal +1 damage on a critical hit (applied last), but you also suffer a -2 penalty to saving throws made to resist fear effects.
* **Gnoll Weapon Training:** You have proficiency with the spear, shortbow, longbow, handaxe, battleaxe, and the net.
* **Natural Armor:** Gnoll hides are remarkably tough, granting them a +2 natural armor bonus.
* **Scent:** You gain the *Scent* ability.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Goblin (Golin'dar)**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity at 7 years; average lifespan ~25 years
* **Homeland:** N/A
* **Language:** Gobbeldygook (also called "Goblin")

Considered nothing more than murderous pests by most, goblins dwell on the fringes of other societies, scavenging their waste and building their society in squalor. Weak on their own, goblins often gather in huge numbers to overwhelm their foes.

Goblins are short, emaciated creatures about the size of a halfling. They have large, flat ears and a mouth of needle-like teeth. Their skin is often leathery and grey, wrinkled and covered in tiny scars, warts, and scabs. Goblins grow little hair, and when they do it is course and thin. They dress in rags and scraps cast off by other humanoids and bear cobbled-together equipment.

Known for their unique biology and aggressive behavior, many goblins are trained by orc blood packs as mercenaries due to their savage nature and adaptability to different environments. Their unique biology allows them to adapt quickly to their environment, allowing them to acclimate to virtually any environment; developing thicker skin after being burned, for example.

They are known for a unique biology that carries a striking set of advantages and disadvantages, which allow goblins to adapt quickly to their environment, along with the ability to heal from injuries faster than other species. This adaptive ability allows goblins to acclimate to virtually any environment; developing thicker skin after being burned, for example. This makes them immune to almost all non-magical diseases.

Goblins rarely build their own structures; they prefer to use terrain and natural defenses to their advantage, often settling in sewers, caves, or mines. They rely more on scavenging than hunting to get by in modern times. They gather in packs of up to a few dozen, led by a Chieftan and a few sub-chiefs who are simply the strongest members of the pack. Goblin adventurers tend to stick with groups of "big people" for means of protection, often because they were exiled from their pack or left for other reasons.

Goblins love to collect treasure, but value appearance over utility. Thus, a shiny but ultimately worthless trinket is valued over a powerful but ugly magical item.

Strangely, goblins have a near-pathological fear and hatred of horses and dogs, and they are not strong swimmers. Similarly, Goblins are extremely superstitious and tend to worship things that scare them; their society is full of ridiculous myths and legends, often fixating on odd-shaped natural features.

#### **Goblin Attributes**

* +2 DEX, -2 STR, -2 CHA; Goblins are quick, but weak and primitive.
* Small size (+1 AC & attack rolls vs. Medium; +4 Hide, -4 penalty to Grapple; carrying capacity is 3/4 that of a Medium creature)
* Base landspeed 30 ft.
* **Darkvision -** 60 ft.
* **Type:** Humanoid (Goblinoid)
* **Adaptation:** Growing up in harsh environments, your body has evolved to survive. You have a +4 bonus to resist the effects of weather, extreme heat, and extreme cold.
* **Bite:** Your fanged maw is a natural weapon, which you can use to make unarmed attacks. If you hit, you deal 1d3 + STR modifier piercing damage.
* **Child of Filth:** Goblins have a +4 bonus to all saving throws to resist poisons and environmental effects, and are immune to all nonmagical disease.
* **Eat Anything:** Goblins have learned to survive by eating whatever they happen across and can digest nearly anything without getting sick. Goblins gain a +4 on Survival checks to forage for food and a +4 racial bonus on saves versus effects that cause the nauseated or sickened conditions.
* **Fury of the Small:** Once per day, goblins can choose to increase the critical hit multiplier of their weapon for a single critical hit. This decision can be made before the initial damage is rolled.
* **Skulker:** +2 Stealth and Sleight of Hand.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Goliath (Oread)**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 18 years; average lifespan ~150 years
* **Homeland:** Mountains throughout Dharennal
* **Language:** Dethek (also called "Giant")

A race of rock people inhabiting the mountainous regions of Dharrenal. Most folk of giant blood ignore the political nonsense of the smaller folk. As the old goliath saying go, “Only people with little strength like to talk”. Goliaths are of stone giant blood--however distantly--and keep many old stone giant traditions. As goliaths keep no written history, it’s unclear what their origin is.

Most dwell in the mountains of Dharrenal, living in small, close-knit semi-nomadic hunter-gatherer tribes. Some have ventured down into the Eastern Plains to roam as nomadic raiders, taking what they wish from the unprotected few. Other lone Goliaths can be found as adventurers, or among bandit or mercenary companies. A small number have been taken in by the wealthy elite of the Ozmit Empire, Slazka, or Vanar and given jobs as bodyguards; some out of charity, others for these nobles’ own amusement.

They tend to be very tall and powerfully built. Goliaths are proud of their strength and jumping ability, and athletic contests among their people are the norm, especially boxing, sumo wrestling, and obstacle courses. Goliaths live in close-knit, semi-nomadic communities in the mountains. They are very respectful of their own kind, calling other Goliaths “Brother” or “Sister”.

They are not an overly hostile race, at least not violent for no reason, and they are slow to trust outsiders, and may come off as cautious or even aggressive. However, if an outsider can prove their worth, the tribe will accept them and may even call them a brother or sister. Most people of Dharrenal meet goliaths with curiosity, not animosity. Many people who live near the mountains tend to be more apprehensive about dealing with goliaths.

#### **Goliath Attributes**

* +4 STR, -2 DEX, -2 INT; Goliaths are extremely physically powerful, but they are clumsy and stiff like the mountains they call their home, and they don't tend to be very bright.
* Medium size, base landspeed 30 ft.
* **Type:** Humanoid (Giant)
* **Acclimated:** Goliaths spend their lives as mountain nomads and are well adapted for that environment. They take no penalties due to high altitude.
* **Earth Affinity:** Goliath sorcerers with the elemental (earth) bloodline treat their Charisma score as 2 points higher for all sorcerer spells and class abilities. Goliath clerics with the Earth domain use their domain powers and spells at +1 caster level.
* **Mountain Movement:** Make standing jumps and high jumps as if they were running jumps. A goliath can engage in accelerated climbing without taking a -5 penalty on the Climb check.
* **Powerful Build:** The physical stature of goliaths lets them function in many ways as if they were one size category larger. Whenever a goliath is subject to a size modifier or special size modifier for a Combat Maneuver Bonus or Combat Maneuver Defense (such as during grapple checks, bull rush attempts, and trip attempts), they are treated as one size larger if doing so is advantageous to him. A goliath is also considered to be one size larger when determining whether a creature’s special attacks based on size (such as grab or swallow whole) can affect him. A goliath can use weapons designed for a creature one size larger without penalty. However, his space and reach remain those of a creature of his actual size. The benefts of this racial trait stack with the effects of powers, abilities, and spells that change the subject’s size category.
* **Suspicious:** +2 Sense Motive
* **Survivor:** Half-Giants gain a +4 racial bonus to Survival checks.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Hadozee (Kong)**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 13 years; average lifespan ~50 years
* **Homeland:** Kongo Bongo, The Stepping Stones
* **Language:** Kong (also called "Hadozee")

A race of simianlike humanoids hailing from the island of Kongo Bongo in the Stepping Stones, hadozee (an elvish word) are often referred to as "winged deck apes". It's easy to see where they would come by such a moniker; they look like apes and they have leathery flaps beneath their arms that allow them to glide along air currents. Because they're good climbers and balancers, they find themselves particularly well-suited for life aboard seafaring vessels and airships.

Hadozee stand about 6 to 6 1/2 feet tall, though seem a little shorter due to their stooped posture. They tend to weigh between 200 and 250 pounds, most of it solid muscle. Hadozee do not traditionally need clothing, due to their thick, shaggy fur, but many who are going into human lands will at least wear pants, vests, neck ties, hats, or some other basic humanoid clothing to seem polite.

Their home is on the large, forested island of Kongo Bongo where they live among tree tops and in small villages built on the side of cliffs. They live relatively peaceful lives, but since making contact with the outside world, they have become increasingly curious, possessed by a wanderlust. They are often very active and feel their emotions intensely.

#### **Hadozee Attributes**

* +2 DEX, +2 Wis, -2 CHA; Hadozee are surprisingly graceful and acrobatic for their size, and despite their generally friendly demeanor can often come across a little too strong, or are too brutish for other cultures.
* Medium size, base landspeed 30 ft.
* **Type:** Humanoid (Beastfolk)
* **Ancient Foe:** Hadozee have long been enemies of the reptillian lizardfolk people. They gain a +2 dodge bonus to AC and a +2 bonus to attack rolls made against Lizardfolk and creatures with the reptilian subtype.
* **Gliding:** Hadozee use their arm-flaps to glide when they need to. They take no damage from falling (as if subject to a constant non-magical feather fall spell). While in midair, Hadozee can move up to 5 feet in any horizontal direction for every 1 foot they fall, at a speed of 60 feet per round. They cannot gain height with these wings alone; it merely coasts in other directions as it falls. If subjected to a strong wind or any other effect that causes a creature with gliding wings to rise, it can take advantage of the updraft to increase the distance it can glide.
* **Natural Acrobats:** +4 Balance and Climb. A hadozee does not lose their DEX bonus to AC while climbing, and can climb unimpeded while holding something in one hand.
* **Stubborn:** Hadozee possess strong wills and are not easily deterred from a course of action. They receive a +2 racial bonus to saving throws made to resist spells and spell-like abilities of the Charm and Compulsion subschools.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Kalashtar (Samsaran)**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 5 years; average lifespan ~150 years
* **Homeland:** Plane of Dal Quor; the City of Dreams (Forest of Ilan)
* **Language:** Deva (also called "Kalashtari")

The Kalashtar are a compound race: incorporeal entities from the plane of Dal Quor, the Realm of Dreams, bound to humanoid form. Mysterious people with pale blue flesh and transparent blood like the waters of a trickling brook, the Kalashtar are an enigma to those they walk among.

As the sentient embodiment of dream-spirits, they do not view life as a linear progression of birth to death. Life and death, both have their use and meaning, but they know well what lies beyond our world. All existence, in any form, is simply a part of the journey. When their physical bodies are destroyed on this plane, they will return to Dal Quor until such a time that they are reincarnated, bound to a new body to begin the journey of life all over again.

Beings of walking paradox, the Kalashtar possess keen intellects but are not beings ruled by logic. They seek the harmony of their bodies and spirits, often to the exclusion of most other pursuits. They are generally warm and compassionate, but their manners and ways are alien to the native races of Tyrind. They are more interested in the potential of the mind than in the magic that pervades Dharrenal, and often lace their discourse with esoteric terms such as "matter", "kinetics", and "ectoplasm".

As a race, the Kalashtar do not dream; they are cut off from the realm of their origin so long as they dwell on the Material Plane. They say this is the price they pay for walking the solid earth, but it has left them slightly inclined toward madness. They are generally chaotic in nature and are inclined toward good.

Whenever a Kalashtar dies, its essence returns to the Realm of Dreams until it reincarnates anew as a young Kalashtar to live a new life. Their past memories remain vague and indistinct, and each new incarnation is as different a creature and personality as a child is to a parent. They are capable of recalling the lessons and failings of their previous incarnations with some degree of difficulty. But opening themselves up to their past lives also opens them up to potential possession and madness.

The Kalashtar recognize the gods, but they do not revere them. They follow another entity who they call "The Dream Waking" or "Morpheus", who they call the King of Dreams. They claim that he is older than any god, who was already ancient when the gods first wandered into the mists of the dawn age. The Dream Waking is the source of inspiration, who touches and visits each of us at night when we dream. They say he knows each mortal better than they know themselves.

#### **Kalashtar Attributes**

* +2 INT, +2 WIS, -2 CON; Kalashtar are observant and in touch with the universe around them, but are physically frail and weak.
* Medium size, base landspeed 30 feet
* **Type:** Outsider (Native)
* Low Light Vision
* **Dreamless:** Kalashtar sleep but do not dream. They are immune to the *Dream* and *Nightmare* spells, as well as any other effect that relies on the target's ability to dream.
* **Flexible Mind:** The Kalashtar's mind is extremely resilient and difficult to affect. Kalashtar receive a +2 racial bonus to saving throws made to resist compulsions and possession effects.
* **Immune to Undeath:** Kalashtar can’t become undead. Spells and abilities that would transform a Kalashtar into an undead creature have no effect.
* **Lifebound:** +2 bonus to saves vs. Death effects.
* **Shards of the Past:** A kalashtar's past lives grant them bonuses to two skills of your choice, gaining a +2 racial bonus on both of these skills, and they are always treated as class skills regardless of what class you actually take.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Kiloren**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 1 year; average lifespan ~300 years
* **Homeland:** Forest of Illan; starting to awaken in other forests across Dharrenal
* **Language:** Sylvan

Awakening deep in the hearts of primeval forests are the Kiloren, a race of powerful fey creatures that blend nature's patience and power with the ambition and aggression of a humanoid race. The ancient places of the world stir with a power all their own, and from this power have sprung the answer to the growing might of the humanoid races.

Kiloren are at once young and eternal, newly brought into the world but with unknowably ancient ties to the heart of nature. As fey, they have a tie to nature unmatched by even the elves, but unlike other fey, they are not content to wait in the dark recesses of the dwindling forests. They walk through the cities of man as easily as they meditate in the glades of a verdant forest.

They range from powerful and zealous defenders of nature to gentle, inquisitive, insightful students of philosophy. They are observant and rarely speak except in situations of great importance.

There are not many kiloren in the world as yet, but their numbers are quickly growing. So far, these adaptable fey have only come into isolated conflict with evil or overambitious, greedy corporations bent on draining nature dry, but it is becoming increasingly clear that they are destined for more. The kiloren have started making their presence known in the world, and a few far-seeing and learned sages wonder at the implication of their growing power.

The kiloren do not as yet have any lands or kingdoms of their own. In fact, there is only a single kiloren settlement if stories are to be believed. No outsiders have seen this enigmatic city and the kiloren do not speak of it. The settlement is governed by an entity known as "Gaia", though who or what this entity is--whether it is a particularly old or powerful kiloren, an archfey, or something else entirely--is unknown.

#### **Kiloren Attributes**

* +2 racial bonus to one ability score of your choice.
* Medium size, base landspeed 25 ft.
* Low-Light Vision
* **Type:** Fey (Immune to spells only affecting humanoids, such as *Charm Person* and *Hold Person;* +2 to saves vs. Enchantment spells or effects.)
* **Industrial Anathema:** Vulnerability to cold iron; -2 penalty to attack rolls made with metal weapons. -2 to Fortitude & Will saves made in areas of strong Industrial presence.
* **Nature Bond:** Kiloren are believed to have been born of nature and they are a part of it. They receive a +2 racial bonuis to Handle Animal & Survival skill checks.
* **Manifest Nature's Might:** Kiloren are forever bound to the raw forces of nature itself, manifesting this bond in physical form. A kiloren can only manifest a single aspect of nature's might at a time, choosing which aspect to channel every day at dawn with 10 minutes' meditation. Once they choose an aspect, they manifest it until the next dawn, when they again choose which aspect to manifest. Their physical appearance often alters slightly from aspect to aspect.
	+ ***Aspect of the Ancient:*** Embody the deep and ancient secrets of nature itself. Gain a bonus to Knowledge (Nature) checks equal to their 1/2 HD, minimum +1, and gain an additional +2 bonus to saving throws made to resist Enchantment spells and effects.
	+ ***Aspect of the Destroyer:*** Embody nature's capacity for destruction. Once per day, a kiloren can make a Smite attack that deals extra damage to the foes of nature. When making this smite, add CHA bonus to the attack roll and deal 1 extra point of damage per HD. This attack only works against aberrations, constructs, humanoids, oozes, and undead. A smite on any other kind of creature has no effect, but the ability is still used up for the day.
	+ ***Aspect of the Hunter:*** Embody nature's ancient tradition of the hunt, senses sharpening to an amazing degree. Gain a +2 bonus Perception and Stealth checks, and a +2 racial bonus to Initiative.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Neanderthaal**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 14 years; average lifespan ~65 years
* **Homeland:** Frostweald
* **Language:** Chanook (also called "Neanderthaal")

These hulking brutes are a feral race of humanoids, descended from the blood of frost ogres, who dwell in the frozen, crude, and violent lands of the Frostweald. They are a primitive folk who have never seen the need to become civilized, usually living in caves or abandoned underground ruins and hunting the surrounding regions with great skill and unmatched ferocity.

    The neanderthaal are savage and brutal, reflecting the feral lands from which they hail. They react with suspicion or hostility toward unknown developments, since they learn early on in childhood that the unknown is always something to fear. If you understand the enemy, you have nothing to fear, for you know what needs to be done to overcome him. Yet among friends, neanderthaals are much more relaxed and sociable, and enjoy dancing, singing, tale-telling, feasting, and other pastimes involving large numbers of people.

The neanderthaals live simple lives and are at one with the natural world. Good, evil, law, chaos; that means nothing to them. Life is a spear in your hand and food in your belly. Everything else is unnecessary to the ultimate goal of survival. They are a deeply spiritual people, worshiping various aspects of nature, but paying the ultimate respect to the Northern Lights in the sky and to fire. Fire, they believe, is a warrior god who protects them and provides for them, but punishes the unworthy.

It's rare, but sometimes a lone neanderthaal, disillusioned with life among his people or forced by a more tragic history to strike out on their own, stumbles upon a more civilized society. These encounters are usually brutal and short, but in some cases, a neanderthaal learns to adapt somewhat and can become a well-liked and valued member of the community. Some of these neanderthaals continue on, becoming adventurers. The lifestyle suits them; it involves much travel and combat against superiour foes, something neanderthaal see as normal.

#### **Neanderthaal Attributes**

* +2 STR, +2 CON, -4 INT
* Medium size, base landspeed 30 ft.
* **Climate Tolerant:** They do not have to make saving throws to resist extreme cold environments, but suffer a -2 penalty to saves made in extreme heat. This ability provides no protection from cold damage.
* **Human Blood:** A neanderthaal is considered a human for any effect related to race.
* **Illiteracy:** Neanderthaal do not automatically know how to read or write any language. They must spend 2 skill points per language they wish to read and write. Their native tongue, Chanook, has no written form.
* **Isolated:** A Neanderthaal begins play knowing only their native tongue of Chinook.
* **Primitive Weapon Mastery:** Neanderthaals have a +1 racial bonus with primitive weapons: bolas, clubs, darts, greatclubs, goads, iuak, javelins, longspears, ritiiks, shortspears, slings, spears, sugliin, throwing axes, and tigerskull clubs.
* **Natural Hunters:** +2 Listen & Survival

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Raptoran (Aarakocra)**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 12 years; average lifespan 80 years
* **Homeland:** Oliad, Lucain Coast
* **Language:** Rito (also called "Raptoran")

The Raptoran are a race of birdlike humanoids who claim to be distantly related to both elves and triton. They possess beaks, wings, and feathers; they have completely avian forms with humanoid builds. Their plumage tends to be very bright, with blue being a common color.

They have a spiritual relationship with the wind, which they believe is the embrace and whispered words of their wind goddess, Liiora. They live in high mountains and tall trees. Nowhere are Raptoran more comfortable than in the sky. They can spend hours in the air, and so go as long as days, locking their wings in place and letting thermals hold them aloft. In battle, they prove to be acrobatic fliers, moving with remarkable speed and grace, diving to lash opponents with weapons or talons before turning and flying away.

Their resemblance to animals isn’t limited to physical features. They display many of the same mannerisms as birds: they are fastidious about their plumage, for example, frequently tending their feathers, cleaning and scratching away any tiny air passages they might have picked up. Many Raptoran also punctuate their speech with chirps.

The idea of ownership baffles the Raptoran. After all, who owns the sky? Even when explained to them, they still find the notion weird and confusing. As a result, Raptorans who have little interaction with people might be a nuisance as they drop from the sky to snatch something when they feel they need. They find it hard not to pluck shiny objects and other treasures and not bring it back with them to beautify it.

Confinement terrifies them. To be grounded, trapped underground, or imprisoned by the cold, unyielding earth is a torment few Raptoran can withstand. Even when perched on a high tree or a bar stool, they appear alert, with eyes moving and bodies ready to take flight.

Alcohol is poisonous to Raptoran.

#### **Raptoran Attributes**

* +2 Dexterity, +2 Wisdom, -2 Constitution
* Medium size, base landspeed 30 feet, Fly 40 feet (average maneuverability)
* Low-Light Vision
* **Type:** Humanoid (Beastfolk)
* **Eyes of a Hawk:** The Raptoran people have extremely keen eyes. They gain a +2 racial bonus to Perception checks, and reduce all penalties to visual-based Perception checks by 1. For example, under normal circumstances a character suffers a -1 penalty per 10 feet when making a visual-based perception check. So making such a check at 30 feet would impart a -3 penalty to the Perception check, but a Raptoran suffers only a -2 penalty.
* **Flight:** A raptoran can fly 40 feet (average maneuverability). They can't fly while carrying a medium or heavy load, or while fatigued or exhausted. They can safely fly for a number of hours equal to their Constitution score. They can exert themselves to fly for up to twice as long, but they are Exhausted at the end of the flight. A raptoran can take the run action while flying, provided they only move in a straight line.
	+ **Dive Attack:** Works like a charge, but the raptoran must move a minimum of 30 feet and descend at least 10 feet. A raptoran can make a dive attack only when wielding a piercing weapon; if the attack hits, it deals double damage.
* **Unerring Direction:** Raptorans have an instinctive sense of which direction is north, even when underground or otherwise unable to see the sky. Beyond the Material Plane, this ability does not function.
* **Weapon Familiarity:** Treat the Footbow as a martial weapon.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Ratfolk (*Skaven*)**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 3 years; average lifespan ~20 years
* **Homeland:** Human Lands
* **Language:** Skitter

Ratfolk are small, rodent-like humanoids; originally native to subterranean areas in dry deserts and plains, they are now more often found in nomadic trading caravans. Much like the pack rats they resemble, ratfolk are tinkerers and hoarders by nature, and as a whole are masters of commerce, especially when it comes to acquiring and repairing devices.

Though some are shrewd merchants who carefully navigate the shifting alliances of black markets and bazaars, many ratfolk love their stockpiles of interesting items far more than money, and would rather trade for more such prizes to add to their hoards over mere coins. It’s common to see a successful crew of ratfolk traders rolling out of town with an even larger bundle than they entered with.

Ratfolk have a strong attraction to shiny jewelry, especially copper, bronze, and gold, and many decorate their ears and tails with small rings made of such metals. They are known to train giant badgers, which they often use as pack animals and mounts.

Ratfolk are extremely communal and live in large warrens with plenty of hidden crannies in which to stash their hoards or flee in times of danger, gravitating toward subterranean tunnels or tightly packed tenements in city slums. They feel an intense bond with their large families and kin networks, as well as with ordinary rodents of all sorts, living in chaotic harmony and fighting fiercely to defend each other when threatened. They are quick to use their stockpiles of gear in combat, but prefer to work out differences and settle disputes with mutually beneficial trades.

When a specific ratfolk warren grows overcrowded and the surrounding environment won’t support a larger community, young ratfolk instinctively seek out new places in which to dwell. If a large enough group of ratfolk immigrants all settle down in a new, fertile area, they may create a new warren, often with strong political ties to their original homeland. Otherwise, individual ratfolk are inclined to simply leave home and take up residence elsewhere, or wander on caravan trips that last most of the year, reducing the pressure of overcrowding at home.

#### **Ratfolk Attributes**

* +4 DEX, -4 STR
* Small size; base landspeed 30 feet, Swim speed 10 feet
* **Type:** Humanoid (Beastfolk)
* Low-Light Vision
* **Cornered Beast:** When your hit points are less than half your hit point maximum, and you do not have a conscious ally within 30 feet, you gain a +2 racial bonus to attack and damage rolls.
* **Junker:** Ratfolk have a keen eye for finding treasure among trash. They gain a +2 racial bonus to Appraise and Craft (Tinker) checks.
* **Mob Tactics:** Ratfolk are used to living and fighting communally, and are adept at swarming foes for their own gain and their foes’ detriment. Up to two ratfolk can share the same square at the same time. If two ratfolk in the same square attack the same foe, they are considered to be flanking that foe as if they were in two opposite squares.
* **Nimbleness:** You can move through a hostile creature's space in combat as long as it is Medium or larger.
* **Rodent Empathy:** +4 bonus to Handle Animal checks made with rodents.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Shifter**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 14 years; average lifespan ~80 years
* **Homeland:** Human Lands; most commonly found in Vanar
* **Language:** Human Languages

Shifters are subtle shapeshifters capable of disguising their appearance. They evolved through the union of humans and doppelgangers, eventually becoming a separate race distinct from either ancestral tree. They do not possess the full shapeshifting ability of a doppelganger, but they can create effective disguises at will. This ability makes them consummate spies and criminals, and many shifters live up to this potential.

In general, shifters are prudent and cautious, preferring to take risks only when they feel the payoff is worth it. They appreciate the finer things in life and take great pleasure in the comforts of a wealthy lifestyle when they can obtain it. They avoid direct confrontation, preferring stealthy strikes and hasty retreats whenever possible. In conversation, they are soft-spoken but have a gift for drawing out more information than the other party intends to reveal.

Shifters strongly resemble their doppelganger lineage, with only a passing nod to their human heritage. They stand between 5 and 6 feet tall. Unlike true doppelgangers, shifters do have genders in their natural form, although they can adopt any shape they like. In their natural forms, shifters have pale white skin, and their hair is thin and fair. Their limbs are long and slightly out of proportion compared to humans, and their faces have more distinct features than a doppelganger, including the hint of a nose and lips. Their eyes, however, remain blank black and they possess the overall look of being 'unfinished'.

#### **Shifter Attributes**

* +2 bonus to an ability score of your choice.
* Medium size; base landspeed 30 ft.
* **Type:** Humanoid (Shapechanger)
	+ Proficient with natural weapons, gaining a 1d4 slam attack
	+ Vulnerable to Silver
* **Natural Linguist:** Add two additional languages to your starting languages
* **Slippery Mind:** A shifter's mind is as malleable and changeable as their bodies. They receive a +2 racial bonus to saving throws made to resist Sleep and Charm effects
* **Shapeshifting (Su):** Shifters have the supernatural ability to alter their appearance as though using the *Disguise Self* spell that affects their bodies, but not their possessions. This ability is not an illusory effect, but a minor physical alteration of a shifter's facial features, skin color and texture, and physicality, within the limits described for the spell. A shifter can use this ability as a full-round action, and the alteration lasts indefinitely or until they choose to change their shape again. A shifter reverts to their natural form when killed.
	+ A *True Seeing* spell reveals their natural form. When using this ability to create a disguise, a shifter receives a +10 circumstance bonus on Disguise checks.
* **Subterfuge:** A shifter's entire nature revolves around deception, trickery, and disguise. They gain a +2 racial bonus to Bluff, Intimidate, and Sense Motive checks.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Skinwalker (Lycan, Werefolk)**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 18 years; average lifespan ~100 years
* **Homeland:** Human Lands; most commonly found in Slazka and the Eastern Plains
* **Language:** Human Languages, Beastspeech

Skinwalkers are descended from humans and true lycanthropes. Skinwalkers have a diminished ability change their form, but are free from the influence of the moon. While they cannot achieve a full lycanthrope transformation, they are able to take on more animalistic features--a state that they call "Animalism". Skinwalkers have evolved into a unique race that breeds true. They have a distinct culture with its own traditions and identity.

The personality and behavior of Skinwalkers are influenced by their animalistic heritage. Many are boorish and crude, while others are quiet and contemplative, and others are shifty and solitary. Just as most lycanthropes are carnivores, skinwalkers have a predatory personality and think of most activities in terms of hunting and prey. They view survival as a challenge, striving to be self-reliant, adaptable, and resourceful.
They appear to be basically human, but their bodies are often exceptionally lithe and muscled. They often move in a crouched posture, springing and leaping while their companions walk alongside. They often possess certain bestial traits, which are enhanced to become more feral and animalistic during their Animalism transformations; in such instances, they have flat noses, large eyes and heavy brows, pointed ears, long sideburns, fangs, and clawed fingers. Their eyes, as well, take on a more bestial appearance and sheen. Their forearms and lower legs grow long hair, and the hair on their head is thick and worn long. Their body hair is also accentuated during periods of Animalism.

Many people feel uncomfortable around skinwalkers, who in turn feel out of place in civilized lands. They tend to be neutral, viewing the struggle to survive as more in line with the natural order of the wilds. In terms of religion, they ultimately all follow Obad-Hai, but each tribe has curious beliefs regarding animal spirits. Each skinwalker has animal traits connected to their lycanthrope heritage and, as such, often worship like totem spirits. For example, a tribe of Wolf Skinwalkers (descended from werewolves) often worship the Great Wolf. Skinwalkers believe these totem animal spirits are the children of Obad-Hai.

#### **Skinwalker Attributes**

* +2 to one ability score (see below), -2 CHA; Skinwalkers are lithe and agile, but their fundamental bestial nature detracts from both their reasoning ability and their social interactions.
* Medium size, base landspeed 35 feet
* Low-Light Vision
* **Athletic:** +2 Balance, Climb, and Jump
* **Animal Empathy:** Skinwalkers have a +2 racial bonus on Handle Animal and wild empathy checks.
* **Animalism (Su):** A skinwalker can tap into their lycanthropic heritage to gain short bursts of physical power. They can change shape to and from a bestial form as a standard action. In bestial form, a skinwalker gains a +2 racial bonus to either Strength, Dexterity, or Constitution (see below). While in this form, a skinwalker also takes on an animalistic feature that provides a special effect. Each time a skinwalker assumes bestial form, she gains a +1 natural armor bonus to AC, 2 claws attacks that each deal 1d4 slashing damage, and Darkvision out to 60 feet. They also gain one of the following features depending on their specific heritage:
	+ **Beasthide:** +2 CON and a natural armor bonus that provides a +2 bonus to AC.
	+ **Cliffwalk:** +2 DEX and you gain a Climb speed of 20 feet.
	+ **Longstride:** +2 DEX and you gain a +10 bonus to your landspeed.
	+ **Longtooth:** +2 STR and you grow fangs that can be used as a natural weapon that deals 1d6 piercing damage +1 per 4HD. You can't make a bite attack more than once per round, even if you have multiple attacks available to you. You can treat your Bite as a Light weapon for the purposes of Two-Weapon fighting.
	+ **Razorclaw:** +2 STR and you grow claws that can be used as natural weapons that deal 1d4 slashing damage +1 per 4HD. You can attack with one claw as a standard action, or with both claws as a full-round action. You can attack using each claw only once per round. When attacking with both claws, both attacks have a -2 penalty to attack rolls.
	+ **Wildhunt:** +2 CON and you gain the Scent ability. This allows you to detect approaching creatures, sniff out hidden foes, and track by sense of smell. A wildhunt skinwalker can identify familiar odors just as a human does familiar sights. While not in Animalism, you still get a +2 bonus to Survival checks due to the lingering effects of this ability.
		- You can detect creatures out to 30 feet by sense of smell. If they are upwind, this increases to 60 feet, and if they are downwind it drops to 15 feet. Strong scents, such as smoke or strong perfume, can be detected at double range. Overpowering smells, like skunk musk or garbage, can be detected at triple range.
		- When you detect a scent, the exact location isn't revealed--only its presence somewhere in range. You can take a move action to note the direction of the scent, and when you comne within 5 feet of it, you can pinpoint its location.
		- While in an Animalism trance, you can follow tracks by sense of smell if you have the Track feat, allowing you to ignore factors like surface conditions and poor visibility.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Tengu**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 11 years; average lifespan ~45 years.
* **Homeland:** Lucain Coast, Eastern Plains; Zhao-Tian (originally)
* **Language:** Kaaw (also called "Tengu")

Tengu are a race of crow-like humanoids who originate from distant Zhao-Tian. They are not as physically adept compared to most species, so Tengu mostly make their influence felt through trade and commerce, and they have a surprisingly large presence in the Lucain Coast and Oliad.

Tengu are not a religious people; if asked whom they worship, most simply reply “Coin”. Tengu society highly respects their elders, finding them the most qualified to lead.

Tengu culture is dominated by trade, whether it be of land, resources, or even other tribe members. The Tengu have a reputation as traders, bankers, and merchants, and many work as some of the best financial advisors. Due to the Tengu not being physically adept, they tend not to be outwardly aggressive, and can even seem cowardly to other, more militant races. The Tengu entirely lack the romantic view of war found in other cultures, like humans or dwarves. Physical skirmishes between Tengu clans rarely last long, and are almost always ended by social castigation, or bargaining agreements.

Tengu have two names, but no family names. According to Tengu sensibilities, one cannot own a living being, and using a family name would essentially be laying claim to their offspring. They tend to refer to others by their race instead of their name or other descriptor; as “Human”, “Elf”, or “Dwarf”.

Despite most Tengu distinctly sounding like males or females to other humanoids, Tengu genders are a mystery to outsiders. The Tengu themselves consider the question both intrusive and hilariously irrelevant, to the point that Tengu often give blatantly false information on the subject. With little else to go on, people simply assign an arbitrary gender based on what they sound like, and the Tengu don’t seem to really care.

#### **Tengu Attributes**

* +2 DEX,+2 WIS, -2 CON; Tengus are fast and observant, but relatively fragile and delicate.
* Medium size, base landspeed 30 ft.
* Low-Light Vision
* **Type:** Humanoid (Beastfolk)
* **Backstabber:** Tengu gain a +1 bonus to attack rolls made with daggers, punching daggers, and scimitars.
* **Beaky:** A tengu has a beak attack that deals 1d3 points of piercing damage.
* **Carrion Sense:** Tengus have a natural ability to sniff out carrion. While their sense of smell isn’t as keen as that of other species, it is particularly attuned to the scent of injuries or death. Tengus with this racial trait have a limited scent ability, which only functions for corpses and badly wounded creatures (50% or fewer hit points).
* **Gifted Linguist:** Automatically gain an additional language. Additionally, Tengus gain a +4 racial bonus on Linguistics checks, and learn 2 languages each time they gain a rank in Linguistics rather than 1 language.
* **Mind for Money:** +2 Appraise
* **Sneaky:** Tengus gain a +2 racial bonus on Perception and Stealth checks.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Tiefling (Cambion)**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 15 years; average lifespan ~100 years
* **Homeland:** Human lands
* **Languages:** Abyssal (also called "Infernal")

Those who bear the mark of Hell are first met with mistrust, and then curiosity--and, in more rural areas of Dharrenal, with fear. Countless scholars have delved through thousands of years of history in search of the origins of the tieflings, to little avail. The most prominent theory is that, back during the Dawn Age, warlocks of noble blood consorted with dark entities, and many of these unions resulted in children neither wholly human nor fiend. These children denied their ashblack fate and traveled across the world in hopes of finding a place in the world to call their own.

Tieflings have seemingly lived in Dharrenal as long as humans have, though they have never been counted among the Free Peoples. They spent most of their history fleeing persecution from a world that thought their very existence was an abomination. Many tieflings are said to have refused to fight during the Calamity War--when a people have experienced so much hatred and cruelty, a certain amount of nihilism is expected.

Not all tieflings declared neutrality, however; a great many served under the Demon Prince as a way to get back at their abusers. The most notable of these companies was “The Black Rams”, a brutal company of mercenary cutthroats and warlocks. It should be noted, though it is rarely brought up, that just as many fought against the demon, and due to their elemental resistances they tended to serve in the most dangerous parts of the War. The most notable were the “Ashen Brothers” and the “Cloven Arrows”. Cesarus Azenti in particular was a tiefling adventurer who was said to have saved countless thousands of people during the Calamity War.

In the centuries after Golden Treaty, the tieflings were once again marginalized and looked upon with suspicion. They fell to the shadows on the edge of society, where they find they thrive. Most avoid rural areas, sticking to more robust and cosmopolitan cities, such as Ibrido or the free coastal city of Havengrad on the edge of the Ozmit Empire, which in particular seems to be a haven for tieflings.

Tieflings have a certain reputation as liars, thieves, killers, and criminals. Many gleefully embrace their fiendish ancestry, finding their callings in foul deeds and shady business.

#### **Tiefling Attributes**

* +2 DEX, +2 INT, -2 CHA
* Medium size, base landspeed 30 feet
* **Type:** Outsider (Native)
* **Darkvision -** 60 ft.
* **Abyssal Vestige:** Tieflings, no matter how hard they try to hide it, are intrinsically demonic in nature and this manifests in some kind of physical traits. Choose one of the following:
	+ **Demonic Hide:** All Tieflings possess some energy resistance, but some have skin that is tough as armor. A tiefling with this trait gains a +1 natural armor bonus to AC.
	+ **Maw or Claw:** Some tieflings take on the more bestial aspects of their fiendish ancestors. These tieflings exhibit either powerful, toothy maws or dangerous claws. The tiefling can choose a bite attack that deals 1d6 points of damage or two claws that each deal 1d4 points of damage. These attacks are primary natural attacks.
	+ **Prehensile Tail:** Almost all tieflings have tails, but some have long, flexible tails that can be used to carry items. While they cannot wield weapons with their tails, they can use them to retrieve small, stowed objects carried on their persons as a swift action.
* **Fiendish Resistance:** Tieflings have cold resistance 5, electricity resistance 5, and fire resistance 5.
* **Infernal Magic:** Tieflings have an instinctive connection to fell magic from the Abyss. All Tieflings can cast *Deathwatch* at-will as a spell-like ability. Tieflings with an INT of 13 or higher can cast *Darkness* 1/day as a spell-like ability
* **Tricky:** Tieflings are known for their duplicitous nature, and even those with noble bearings are naturall skilled at such endeavors. Tieflings gain a +2 racial bonus to Bluff & Stealth checks.

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Tortle**

* **Lifespan:** Most can walk from birth; maturity 15 years; average lifespan ~50 years
* **Homeland:** Coastal areas of western Dharannel; notably the Snout of Omgar
* **Language:** Aquan

What many tortles consider a normal life, others might call a life of adventure. Born near sandy coastlines, most become nomad survivalists as soon as they are able to walk, eager to explore the world around them and meet new people.

A tortle hatches from a thick-shelled egg and spends the first few weeks of its life crawling on all fours. Its parents, often old and near death, spend what little time they have left telling stories to their offspring. Within a year, the young tortle becomes an orphan, though not before it learns how to speak and forage to survive on its own. Young tortles inherit the tools of their parents and tend to live in sibling groups for the first 15 years or so of their lives, which are spent in relatively confined, isolated areas. At about fifteen years old, they will strike out on their own, most never seeing their siblings again.

These folk have a saying: "we wear our homes on our backs". Their shells provide all the shelter they require. Consequently, they don't feel the need to root themselves in one place for too long. Any tortle "settlement" is really only a temeporary place of lean-tos and torches, used for moots where tortles can socialize with each other, share useful information, and trade in relative safety.

Most tortles like to see how others live and discover new customs and ways of doing things. They embrace a simple worldview: the world is a place of wonder, and they see beauty in the ordinary. They live for the chance to hear a soft wind blowing through palm trees, to watch a frog croaking on a lily, or to simply stand in the middle of a busy human marketplace. They marvel at the works of other races, especially humans. While they spend much of their time in relative isolation, tortles are social creatures that like to form meaningful relationships.

Tortles universally worship Meloraa and believe that she watches over them and other creatures faithful to the sea. They believe the moon is the eye of Melora that watches over them in darkness. Tortles feel most at peace in the light of the moon, especially the full moon. They become nervous or uneasy when neither the sun or moon are visible in the sky. Tortles are most uncomfortable underground.

#### **Tortle Attributes**

* +2 WIS, -2 DEX
* Medium Size, base landspeed 20 ft.
* **Type:** Humanoid (Reptillian)
* **Hold Breath:** Tortles can hold their breath for up to 1 hour at a time. Tortles aren't natural swimmers, but they can remain underwater for quite some time before coming up for air.
* **Shell:** Due to their shells and the shape of their body, they cannot wear armor not especially made for them. However, a tortle's shell provides ample protection, granting a +4 natural armor bonus to AC.
	+ **Shell Defense:** You can withdraw into your shell as a standard action. Until you emerge, you are considered to have total cover, though you are also considered prone, your speed becomes 0, and can take no other actions, other than emerging from your shell as a standard action.
* **Survivalist:** +2 Survival

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Triton (Undine)**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 20 years; average lifespan ~200 years
* **Homeland:** Zataria; various bodies of water
* **Language:** Aquan

An aquatic folk who possess fish and amphibian traits, including fins, webbed feet, and gills, which allow them to swim and thrive underwater. They come in many shapes and sizes, but in general, they are humanoid with long tail fins on their heads and finned appendages on their arms and heads. Their skin is like that of a dolphin or shark; smooth and tough, ranging in color from white, blue, grey, dark green, red, or brown.

The Triton are a well-spoken but haughty race who harbor a mistrust of the surface world. Their people weathered the attack of the Demon Prince well, withdrawing from the Calamity War to safeguard their own domain. They have mostly remained apart from the surface since then, and most of their kind are strangers to the surface and its odd ways.

Tritons are a long-lived race, their longevity nearly rivaling the elves. A Triton reaches adulthood around 25 but can remain hale for centuries, and some live up to 400 years old. Tritons are well known as skilled crafters of enchanted objects. Their most famous is a tunic that allows the wearer to breathe while underwater.

Triton are usually found in or near large bodies of water, and rarely stray far away from them. Their capitol city is known as “Zataria”, which translates as simply “The Domain” in Aquan; a massive, cavernous fountain with beautiful architecture that is said to rival that of the elves. Triton are a peaceful and spiritual people, and they pride themselves on speaking clearly and eloquently. Despite their reputation, they are not above waging war if the need arises.

The Torrential Vanguard is a unit of highly trained warriors, fighting with tridents, pikes, and enchanted War Nets. Zataria employs legois of war-octopi and specially-bred Dire Dolphins serve as mounts. Other Triton settlements use Dire Otters, Dire Sharks, or even Dire Eels.

#### **Triton Attributes**

* +2 CON, +2 INT, -2 STR; Tritons are both perceptive and agile, but tend to adapt rather than match force with force
* Medium size, base landspeed 25 ft, Swim speed 45 ft; they are a little slow and clumsy on land, but extremely fast and graceful in the water.
* **Type:** Humanoid (Aquatic)
* **Amphibious:** Triton can breathe both water and air.
* **Emissary of the Sea:** Tritons are children of the sea and have a natural rapport with the creatures found there. Triton receive a +4 racial bonus to all Handle Animal checks made with aquatic creatures.
* **Guardian of the Depths:** A Triton is well adapted to the rigors of the deep sea. They can ignore the pressures of the ocean up to Deepest Sea condition. Additionally, their ability to weather the extreme temperatures of the ocean grant them Cold resistance 5.
* **Venomkissed:** Triton has a natural resistance to poisons and other toxins, gaining a +2 bonus to saves vs. Poison and they gain Resistance 5 to posion damage.
* **Water Magic:** Triton can use hydraulic push 1/day (caster level equals the triton’s level).

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

### **Uldra**

* **Lifespan:** Maturity 13 years; average lifespan ~300 years
* **Homeland:** Slazka, The Frostweald
* **Language:** Sylvan

Even in the frozen reaches of the Frostweald, the power of nature is no less strong. With that power come creatures connected to it: the Uldra, small fey connected to the primal power of the arctic wilderness. They live at peace with the natural world, and are especially fond of the animals found there. They see themselves as guardians and protectors of such creatures, especially in cases where civilization encroaches. While they generally seek to avoid conflict, Uldra are quick to rise to the defense of local wildlife.

Uldra are exceptionally emotional creatures, and their reaction to new situations are always powerful and expressive. An uldra can be laughing with joy one moment, screaming with rage the next, and then be as calm as a winter snow the next. To an uldra, these ever-changing mood swings are normal and logical, but they often project a feeling of insanity in more civilized folk.

Nothing brings joy to their hearts quite like watching, playing with, or helping wild animals. They find domesticated animals to be somewhat depressing and are often incensed at the "unjustice" of it all. Some even stage midnight raids to "rescue" dogs, cattle, and other animals by kidnapping them and returning them to the wilderness. Uldra have a strong dislike for cities and civilization in general, and many take it upon themselves to harass and annoy obvious city-folk.

Uldra are free-spirited feykin, and unlike most humanoid races, they have no interest in living in communities or building cities. They prefer to live in hollow trees or empty caves, dense thickets, or icy glacial tunnels. They are usually solitary, but can sometimes be found living in small family groups of three to six. Their lives are nomadic, and their "society" anarchic. They tend to be fiercely territorial, and usually react rashly to any attempt to cultivate or alter natural geographical regions by civilized races. They are less antagonistic toward explorers, wanderers, travelers, and adventurers, although if such creatures penetrate too deeply into their lands,the uldra won't hesitate to voice their displeasure.

As with most fey, the uldra do not worship gods, though many do respect the Raven Queen and Obad-Hai. They prefer to live as one with the natural world.

#### **Uldra Attributes**

* +2 CON, +2 WIS, -2 STR
* Small Size (+1 AC & attack rolls vs. Medium; +4 Hide, -4 penalty to Grapple; carrying capacity is 3/4 that of a Medium creature)
* Base landspeed 20 ft.
* **Type:** Fey (Immune to spells only affecting humanoids, such as *Charm Person* and *Hold Person;* +2 to saves vs. Enchantment spells or effects.)
* **Cold Resistance:** They suffer no harm in extreme cold environments, and gain Resist 5 Cold.
* **Darkvision -** 60 ft.
* **Frosty Touch:** As a free action, they can infuse their unarmed attacks with elemental cold, dealing an extra 1 cold damage. A melee weapon can be infused as a standard action and deals an extra 1 cold damage as long as the uldra holds it. This does not stack with a Frost property already possessed by a weapon.
* **One with Nature:** Knowledge (Nature) is always a class skill, and they gain a +2 bonus with all such checks.
* **Uldra Magic:** An uldra with at least a 10 WIS may cast *Ray of Frost* three times per day as a spell-like ability.
	+ An uldra with a WIS of at least 13 may cast *Speak with Animals* once per day as a spell-like ability.