Homebrew Abyssborn Species Details

"Where did you come from far traveler?"

"The Abyss, were I was strong enough to fight my way out, and earn my own freedom." - Nox, the Abyssborn to a Shao Kuun Monk

 

     The Abyssborn, a curious race supposedly originating from an unknown layer of the Abyss. How such individuals survive against the supposedly infinite realm surrounded by Demons is an enigma to all of the greatest scholars, and most seasoned adventurers. Up until recently, no historical record indicated that a race of humanoids had been inhabiting and changing within the home of Demons. With a humanoid appearance wreathed in shadows and smoke, one can just make out the slightest details of a nose, a mouth, and scars the Abyssborn may have received. The only truly noticeable features about them that cuts through their hazy visage is their glowing eyes, which has been seen in shades of blue, red, orange, and green, and an unnaturally clear smile or snarl when the Abyssborn would bare its teeth.  

Refugee? or Invader?

     With so little known about them, most scholars, governments, and adventurers aren't sure what to make of these recently discovered humanoids. Are they seeking out a better life for themselves? Free from the evils their home is surrounded by? Or, are they here as a scouting party? A small part of an invading force from the depths of the Abyss, or an omen of sinister things to come. Either way, most humanoids would not openly trust an Abyssborn, regardless of their reason for migrating to the Material Plane, although with time, perhaps we will see their true colors.

Unfortunate Appearances...

     As Abyssborn, many will persecute you for your looks alone as a monstrous demon, or an omen of terrible things to come. Mothers will move their children out of your sight from fear, and guards may deem you a threat and attack you. Such is the curse brought on by your unfortunate appearance. While you are not inherently evil as the other creatures who reside in your realm, you must resist the urge become the monster that they fear you to be. Of the very limited population that has made its way to the Material plane, many have taken great insult to the perceptions of the common folk, and have turned to various illicit activities to survive and seek revenge, while those that have overcome the prejudice have been seen to be reliable and trusted members of the community, even if they are still a bit abrasive in action and personality. 

Challenge Seekers

     Having fought for their freedom, many Abyssborn often grow tired of domestic life rather quickly, prompting many to take up the life of an adventurer. While a rarity, Abyssborn adventurers are rather dependable due to their surviving the trip out of the Abyss, and are well suited to performing any role that a group of adventurers may need. Be it a stealthy rogue, a hardy fighter, or reserved monk, the Abyssborn will find its own path alone, or with a trusted group of companions on its personal quest of seeking for a greater challenge, and exploring this new world that they wish to call home. 

 

Abyssborn Traits

Your must be strong to survive the Abyss, and the ultimate victory is escape. You share these traits with every other Abyssborn

Ability Score Increase

Your Strength or Dexterity increases by +2 and you increase any stat of your choice by +1

Age

It is unknown how long an Abyssborn may live to be. Although from limited interactions with a few individuals, it is estimated that an Abyssborn reaches maturity at age 15 and can live to be as old as 150 if they are strong enough.

Alignment

Abyssborn, unlike the name suggests, and the reputation of their home, are not inherently evil. While they may strive for good, or attempt to stay neutral, it is much easier for them to succumb to evil alignments shared by the other creatures from the Abyss. Due to their restless nature, and regardless of good, neutral, or evil; almost all Abyssborn will tend towards chaotic alignments.

Size

Abyssborn range from 5' to 6'5". Their builds are generally between stocky and lithe as each Abyssborn prioritizes either brute strength, or technique.

Speed

Your base walking speed is 30 feet.

Darkvision

Accustom to living within the shadows of their home for survival and the cities of material races, the Abyssborn have enhanced sight when it comes to the dark. You see in dim light within 60 ft of you as if it were bright light, and darkness as if it were dim light. You can't discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.  

Born Fighter

Growing up in the Abyss, many Abyssborn are trained to fight from the moment they can walk to increase their chances of survival. While some prefer brute strength, others prefer to be flexible and focus on their technique to see them through. As such, you have the choice to be proficient in either Acrobatics or Athletics to compliment your preferred fighting style.

Languages

You can speak, read, and write Common and Abyssal. Abyssal may sound as smooth as the ocean waves with the violence of a swarm of angry hornets. Not many know the language of Demons, so one should avoid speaking it around the common folk so as not to incite panic and bring about the belief that you are a demon yourself.