Homebrew Aquam Abyssi Species Details

Aquam Abyssi are, to put it simply, mer-people. However, they are typically aggressive and mischievous, hoarding stolen items deep under the sea. Large, underwater cities were created as sanctuary for the Aquam Abyssi, but many water-lurking creatures reside in these cities as well. Aquam Abyssi also possess the ability to wander on the surface, but it's only so long before they would retreat back to the depths, as water is essential for their survival.

Mischief among other things

With average heights ranging from 4'10"-5'5", Aquam Abyssi find it easy to slink around corners and even people, tending to have a few extra trinkets in their hands as they find their way through crowds. Because their unstable genetic code, it isn't uncommon to find Aquam Abyssi with and extra eye, finger, or even mouth. In their deep-sea society, these mutations are not frowned upon (and are even praised as "cool" or such), leaving confusion if someone of another race should be disgusted or frightened by their features. To compliment their small build, their teeth are razor-sharp; sharp enough to ward off even the largest of enemies. If this wasn't enough, Aquam Abyssi's speed underwater is unmatched, it is wise not to challenge them in their home waters. Like most small, mischievous creatures, they are attracted to small, shiny objects; their homes full of bobbles and such.

Despite their swimming prowess, Aquam Abyssi are more often seen building structures (tree houses or such) on land; temporary homes. Their fascination with the surface world drives them out of the water and toward large, majestic cities. Regardless of this, Aquam Abyssi always find themselves at home in the deep sea.

Life underwater

 Aquam Abyssi lifespan is around 100-150 years, slightly higher than that of a human's. Most of the Aquam Abyssi's life is spent below the surface, but only by the slightest percentage. Living among other deep-sea races, Aquam Abyssi are often found in cities far, far from the surface. Most cities are made from large, hollowed out spires made of coral or rock, and such cities serve as sanctuary to all who dwell in it's seas. It's majesty challenged only by that of the great, Elven cities, The Spires remain out of reach by most surface-dwellers.

The Spires consist of many markets making up the deeper of the city, many merchants finding a home underwater. Taverns, Inns, and smitheries are often found near the city's core, whereas homes are usually scattered around the outer edges of town. With the challenge of reaching The Spires, many surface dwellers who enter will find themselves surrounded by a community with one goal: to keep the peace. The Spires are a sanctuary, and any who threatens it will meet their doom, deep under the waves.

Variation

A large range of color is what Aquam Abyssi are most well-known for. Depending on where they're found, Aquam Abyssi's hue can be just about any color - but most commonly - the colors found are between purple, blue, green, and yellow. However, the variation does not stop at color. Many Aquam Abyssi are fixed with smooth scales, with many fins extruding from their limbs. Aquam Abyssi can also have spikes along their joints, but this trait is less common, and is usually met with rougher scales. Tails have much variation as well, seeing as some Aquam Abyssi don't have them. The amount of variation in appearance is enough to have lived your whole life without seeing two Aquam Abyssi with the same traits.

This is a work in progress :)

This race is a work in progress, but anyone in the community is welcome to share these ideas and expand on this. I will eventually add on once I've finished the character example sketches. You're also welcome to help me with trait descriptions because they're a little. . .dry. Love y'all! ^^ 
- daedranthusiast

Aquam Abyssi Traits

As a race of deep-sea merpeople, Aquam Abyssi collectively have these traits.

Piercing Maws

Aquam Abyssi's teeth are super sharp! Bite does extra damage...

Ability Score Increase

As a small creature, Aquam Abyssi found a non-violent way to ward off enemies - charm. Increase Charisma stats by 2.

Languages

You can speak, read, and write Common and two extra languages of your choice. Aquam Abyssi have no native language, they learned to speak from those that they meet.

Size

Aquam Abyssi heights typically range from 4'10"-5'5", they are small-medium creatures.

Age

Aquam Abyssi reach adulthood in their 40's and live to around 150 years.

Speed

Your base walking speed is 30 feet. Aquam Abyssi have exceptional swimming skills, your base swimming speed is 50.

Water-breathing

Aquam Abyssi have lungs and gills, you can breathe above and below water.

Darkvision

Having lived many generations in the depths, Aquam Abyssi have grown accustomed to the dark. See up to 60 ft. in pitch black, but cannot discern colors.