Homebrew Argonian Species Details

Argonians (Saxhleel, or People of the Root in their native language of Jel) are the reptilian natives of Black Marsh, a vast swampland province in southeastern Tamriel. The other races often refer to them as "lizards" or the "Lizard Folk" instead, especially when meaning to be derogatory. They are known as the foremost experts in guerrilla warfare throughout Tamriel, a reputation brought upon them by defending their borders from enemies for countless centuries. They have a connection to the Hist, a race of sentient trees. Agile and cunning, they possess natural immunity to poison and disease, a trait that serves them well in their treacherous homeland. They are also naturally adept spellcasters and excel in the art of stealth.

Foreign racial categorization labels them as "beasts," as opposed to the humanoid races of Mer and Men. The Argonians' alien nature is often commented on; they are called strange, expressionless, reserved peoples, slow to trust and hard to know. This is a sentiment shared even by lukiul, or "assimilated" Argonians, who were raised far away from the Hist and often have significant trouble fully understanding the emotions, body language, or motivations of their estranged brethren.

While most of Tamriel refers to them as the Argonians, many Argonians prefer the term Saxhleel when referring to their kind; "Argonian" is an Imperial term. Some Argonians opt to take on a more Cyrodiilicized name outside of Black Marsh. Taking on Imperial dress, name, and customs makes things easier for Argonians in Cyrodiil.

Argonian Traits

Argonians have the following racial traits.

Age.

Argonians live no longer than a century, similar to the human races of Tamriel.

Amphibious.

You can breathe both air and water.

Claws.

Your claws are natural weapons, which you can use to make unarmed attacks. If you hit with them, you deal slashing damage equal to 1d4 + your Strength modifier, instead of the normal damage for an unarmed strike.

Natural Predator.

You have proficiency with the Athletics and Stealth skills.

Poison Immunity.

You are immune to poison damage and the poisoned condition. In addition, you have advantage on Constitution saving throws against disease.

Languages.

You can speak, read, and write Common and Jel.