Nephran

The Nephran lead a nomadic existence, traveling through the breathtaking landscapes of Lux’Terra as herders. This wandering way of life defines their identity, instilling a profound sense of freedom and self-sufficiency. It allows them to form deep bonds with the creatures they shepherd and to gain wisdom from the ever-changing world around them.

Three Types of Animal Herders:

• The Howling Plains: In this unforgiving realm of frigid tundra and biting winds, the Nephran have become skilled reindeer herders. They have honed their resilience in the face of harsh conditions, navigating the treacherous terrain with ease.

• The Golden Grass-Sea: Amidst lush meadows and fertile soil, the Nephran tend to cattle herds. This region’s rich ecology allows for bountiful grazing and sustenance for their cattle, fostering a strong sense of community and cooperation among the Nephran.

• The Ice Dragon’s Spine: In the formidable mountain ranges of the Ice Dragon’s Spine, the Nephran have adapted to herding goats along steep slopes and rocky terrain. This challenging environment has forged their bravery and resourcefulness, making them skilled mountaineers.

While their herding traditions form the core of Nephran culture, they are also known for their warrior nature. The Nephran embrace peaceful solutions to conflicts but carry a legacy of bravery and a deep-seated commitment to righting wrongs. Their patience, born from their nomadic lifestyle, is often cited as the source of their strength. This harmonious blend of pastoral tranquility and inner strength makes the Nephran a truly unique and captivating race in Lux’Terra.

##### Personality:

Nephran possess a gentle and nurturing disposition, deeply connected to their nomadic shepherd lifestyle. They embody a peaceful and tranquil demeanor, finding solace in tending to their herds and maintaining harmony within their communities. Patient, compassionate, and valuing close-knit relationships, they foster unity and cooperation among their kind. While generally non-confrontational, they can display bravery and determination when protecting their herds or defending their way of life. In their interactions with others, Nephran bring a sense of calm, wisdom, and a pastoral perspective.

##### Physical Description:

The Nephran, towering figures standing between 7 to 8 feet tall, possess a captivating and formidable presence.  Their defining feature lies in their large heads, adorned with prominent features and broad, expressive faces.  With broad brows and strong jawlines, their countenances exude strength and resilience.  Their ears, equally imposing, are elongated and perceptive, capable of catching the slightest sounds that echo in their surroundings.  The Nephran's robust and broad physique lends them a stout stocky appearance, characterized by solid muscles and sturdy frames.  Their hirsute bodies are covered in a thick, coarse hair that varies in color, ranging from earthy browns and russets to darker shades of black and gray.  This lush hair, both protective and insulating, adds to their imposing stature and further obscures the distinction between genders.

##### Relations:

The peaceful and pastoral Nephran forge close bonds with races that share their love for nature and tranquility. They have a strong affinity with the Fau, and their harmonious way of life often earns them respect from other races seeking wisdom and serenity.

##### Nephran Lands:

The Nephran, known for their gentle and nurturing nature, lead a nomadic shepherd lifestyle across Lux’Terra. They have established their presence in three regions: the Howling Plains, where they are reindeer herders; the Golden Grass-Sea, where they tend to cattle alongside Hume settlements; and the Ice Dragon’s Spine, where they herd goats in the formidable mountain ranges to the north.

##### Religion:

Nephran spirituality is intertwined with their pastoral lifestyle and connection to nature, shaped by their creator god, Nephus, the Thunderer. They find divine guidance in the stars, believing their positions hold secrets for their herding patterns and decisions. Oral tradition, storytelling, and parables transmit ancestral wisdom and values. These tales are not mere history; they embody their culture’s essence, emphasizing unity and cooperation. Rituals encompass themes of warfare and peace, treating both as sacred acts demanding honorability and solemnity. Honor is central, a sacred duty to their tribes and the natural world they revere. This spirituality reinforces their close-knit tribal bonds and reverence for nature’s cycles.

##### Languages:

The Nephran people speak Thoond. Each region also has its own unique herd-calling; such as cattle-chanting, goat-whistling, and reindeer-whooping, allowing them to communicate intimately with their herds. The Nephran of the Ice Dragon's Spine sometimes learn to speak Sturnd to trade or negotiate peace with the Draohs of the Salt-Rock Cliffs. The Nephran of the Golden Grass-Sea almost all speak Grazlund.

##### Traits:

Attributes : +2 Str , -2 Dex , +2 Con , -2 Wis

Giant’s Blood : Nephran are Medium Humanoid (Giants)

Slow and Steady : Nephran have a movement speed of 20ft

Thick Fur : Natural Armor +1

Keen Senses : +2 to Listen and Spot

Natural Herder : +2 to Handle Animal and Wild Empathy (but uses Handle Animal check)

Nephus’s Gift : Nephran can use weapons one size category larger at no penalty.

Favored Classes: Ascetic and Defender

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