Homebrew Auros Species Details

A Simple, Isolated Life

The Auros are a powerfully-built bovine species. Though they strongly resemble minotaurs, their origins and behaviors are radically different (don’t call an Auros a “minotaur” unless you like the taste of horn). They are a race of scholars and introspective warrior-philosophers, and blend stoicism and opulence in their homes; they are minimalists in what they will own, but those possessions which they do have will tend to be well-crafted and beautiful, each a work of art and skill. They form well-hidden, well-defended isolated communities in high mountain valleys with aesthetically-pleasing fortress architecture that some might even mistake for elven work.

The woes of the world often bypass Auros communities. This is not because the Auros do not care; it is because they tend to see these troubles as the consequences of the outside races' immature squabbling which the Auros do not wish to be drawn into. When great conflicts arise, Auros communities hunker down and concentrate upon letting the violence flow around but not through them; "this too shall pass, as has it always." Individuals may venture out into the world to do what they can to help, but such adventurers do so on their own recognizance and at their own risk, being charged only to not reveal the secret paths and hidden ways that lead to Auros enclaves.

In more stable times, Auros similarly seldom venture out into the wider world, but those who do are usually either traders gathering what the Auros cannot produce themselves, seekers of knowledge and news, or emissaries sent to warn of threats foretold in prophecy and the stars (and perhaps spread a few teachings of calm and patience to cool things down a bit). Auros make excellent fighters, druids and clerics; some will follow the path of the paladin. Their monastery-like martial academies also teach the ways of the monk. These academies and schools exist to counter one of the natural tendencies of the Auros: they are often stubborn and difficult to convince (it can be said “bull-headed”, though perhaps not to one's face). That said, they are also patient with others who are handicapped by being raised in “unenlightened” cultures. Those few visitors who are allowed into an Auros sanctuary and who behave well are accepted and honored, for a while; it doesn't do to wear out one's welcome.

Epicurean Ascetics

Auros prefer experience to extravagance in almost all things... but there are exceptions. Their communities celebrate all things artistic, and loremasters will avidly collect stories, songs and poetry. Scrolls of ancient sagas, sheet music, even the latest "copper-pence dreadfuls" are valued.

The one indulgence even the most ascetic Auros will allow themselves is fine food and drink. Though gluttons are held in contempt, a skilled chef, brewer, vintner or distiller will hold a position of honor and respect within an Auros community. The quality of their spirits and brews is often compared to that of the dwarves, and the deliciousness of their foods rivals even that of halflings and high elves. The way to an Auros' heart is through her tummy; a gift of exotic spices or rare wines will go farther than mere gold.

Just don't serve beef.

Not a Minotaur. Really.

Averaging nearly seven feet tall and almost three hundred pounds of well-marbled muscle, Auros are physically imposing; even an orc warrior or a goliath champion will grant grudging respect. Regardless of sex, Auros have sturdy horns; they often will decorate their horns with scrimshaw-like engraving, paints, metallic caps or dangling pendants. Unlike their nigh-demonic opposites, their legs may end in either human-like feet or split-toed hooves. Their tails are long and tufted, and their manes range from nearly non-existent to long tresses. Most have body-colors of black, rusty brown, grey or tan, with lighter undersides, but more complex patterns are as striking as they are rare.

The origins of the Auros are uncertain. Their history goes back to the earliest years of the world, but much has been lost over the millennia. Some claim that their birth was from "minotaurs gone native"; others will allude to Guardinals, or even other-multiverse speculations. None of these theories have been proven or disproven; the Auros themselves hold differing opinions. They all agree, however, that wherever they came from, understanding the here and the now is the course of the wise.

Auros mature at the same rate as humans, and have the potential to reach a century of age.

Auros Traits

Auros are as contemplative as they are strong, and their traits reflect this.

Attribute Increases

Auros are are powerfully built and patient. They gain +2 to Strength, +1 to Constitution and +1 to Wisdom.

Strong of Will

Auros are trained from birth to be strong-willed. They gain Advantage on Wisdom saving throws.

Auros Studies

Most Auros receive a formal education before reaching adulthood. You may choose either the Arcana or the Religion proficiency.

Savage Horns

Auros have substantial horns which they may use in combat. As an Action, you may make a Natural Weapon melee attack using your horns to do 1d8 plus your Strength modifier in bludgeoning damage. Doing so requires moving at least 20'; the last 20' of the move must be in a straight line toward the target, and your Auros' movement ends when it makes this attack. If the target is hit and is size Large or smaller, it must win a contested Athletics check or be pushed back 5'.

This attack may be done at the end of a Dash, i.e. your Auros may move, then Dash, then make the Savage Horns attack. This ends your Auros' movement for their turn and uses their Action, even if the Dash was done as a Bonus Action instead of an Action.

Empathy for Motivation

Auros have an instinctive understanding of what motivates others, and thus are proficient in either Insight or Intimidation.

Languages

Auros speak the Common tongue, as well as the language of the High Elves.