Loxodon

**Loxodon** are elephantine humanoids. They are easily identified by their leathery grey skin, large ears, and long trunk.

## Basics

### Anatomy

Loxodon features are a mixture between human and elephant. They have two arms, two legs, a trunk, and a short tail. Each of their hands has four fingers, and each foot has four toes. Their tails are somewhat short, and end with a small tuft of hair. Like elephants, Loxodon have leathery grey skin, and large ears. Both males and females have tusks, though the female tusks have sometimes been known to be smaller.

### Genetics and Reproduction

Loxodon give live birth, and have a ten month long pregnancy.

### Growth

Loxodon's mature at the same rate as humans, physically resembling adults at the age of 18. Within their own communities, however, one is not considered adult until age 60, as Loxodon value wisdom over bodily maturity.

### Ecology and Habitat

Traditionally, Loxodon live in forests and jungles, with a small percentage coming from cooler climates. Today, their population is a bit more widespread, and inviduals can be found within major cities as well.

### Dietary Needs

Loxodon are omnivorous, though they primarily feed on fruits and vegetable matter. When possible, they like to eat food that they have grown themselves, or that has been grown locally.

## Additional Information

### Social Structure

Traditional Loxodon societies are built around a leader referred to as a Sage. The sage is usually the oldest and wisest of their community, and is traditionally a Druid, or "Nature Speaker". Other important parts of the community are Clerics "God Pieces" and Guards "Tusks".

### Facial Characteristics

Loxodon faces resemble those of elephants.

### Average Intelligence

Loxodon intelligence is similar to most humanoids, though they are revered as being very wise.

## Civilization and Culture

### Naming

Loxodon names often have very subtle tones which can indicate bonds, family structure, and one's role within the community. Unfortunately, these tones are difficult for other races to distinguish, and near impossible for them to pronounce. Because of this, most Loxodon will translate their names into titles, or use nicknames when dealing with non-Loxodon.

### Gender Ideals

Traditionally, male loxodon are seen as protectors, while females are seen as the caretakers and teachers. Both genders are free to act as healers, farmers, or holy people. Whether or not these gender roles are enforced varies depending on the exact tribe.

### Courtships and Relationship Ideals

Loxodon courtships are often based on the exchanging of hand made gifts. Relationships are meant to be built on mutual respect, and having a partner who is wise is incredibly desirable.

### Technology

Loxodon usually use simple types of technology like stonemasonry and farming. While they by no means lack the intelligence or ability to make more advanced tech, they have yet to see any need.

### Etiquette

When two Loxodon meet, it is common that they shake one another's trunks. When a Loxodon is meeting another race, they are far more likely to use their hands, as it is considered rude to touch someone's trunk without permission.

### Common Dress

Loxodon living in traditional societies wear natural materials as clothing.

### Culture and Heritage

Loxodon are known for their wide variety of art. They are especially respected for their paintings, which usually depict the forest they or their family lives in, a creature they respect, or a personal item. Loxodon are also known as expert stone carvers. Many major statues across the world are believed to have at least been inspired by the work of Loxodon artists.

### Common Customs, Traditions, and Rituals

Marriage in Loxodon towns is an occasion celebrated by the entire community. A statue of the newlyweds is created and placed at the home of the new couple. Usually this statue marks the location of their shared garden. The first plant they raise together is called their "heart flower", and it is said that as long as they continue to cherish and nurture the plant, their love can flourish. Traditionally, this plant is a flower called the "Vagria Flnur", which translates as heart flower in common. Nowadays, any plant is considered suitable so long as the couple give it the proper respect.

### Taboos

Loxodon are very respectful of nature, so any blatant destruction is considered an offense.

### History

Loxodon are said to have been created many millennia ago by an entire called "Selyse". They were first created in the Shesvyn fields, where they were given their humanoid forms, and tasked with protecting the fields. For generations, Loxodon protected the fields from disaster, and they became venerated as holy grounds. While many Loxodon are said to still reside in and around the fields, many others have moved throughout the world.

### Interspecies Relations

Loxodon are neutral with most non-monstrous races. They are friendly towards some of the more nature-loving races like Firbolgs, Gnomes, or Eladrin. They are hostile towards most monstrous races, and have a historical hatred of Green Dragons.