Homebrew Ratfolk Species Details

Ratfolk originate from the breeding between two wererats.

To the people at large, ratfolk find the most difficulty with life. They are deft of foot and are sometimes drawn to a criminal lifestyle. Though this is true of some ratfolk, they are no more violent or larcenous than others, but old stereotypes linger, especially with them. Called the nenajaa, or “we who live” in Rat Speech, many fail to understand the tough lives ratfolk lead are not entirely of their making.

The ratfolk character is a race that focuses on several traits, holding these to be common ground among the vast majority of their race.

Ratfolk Names

Ratfolk might use human names, but much prefer names more closely in line with their beast heritage, derived from the Beast Speech language.

Common Names: Human names, as well as Neyanaat (We Are Hiding), Regranaas (You Don't See), Venaaj (I Wander), Venaat (I Hide)

Quick and silent, ratfolk exist as outsiders no matter where they are, but they let nothing get in their way.
Ability Score Increase. Your Dexterity score increases by 2, and your Intelligence score increases by 1
Age. Ratfolk commonly live a due to quick reproduction and harsh environment and social practices little over 50 years, maintaining good vitality and longevity toward the end. Ratfolk reach adulthood at age 15, with the fur on their bodies turning grey once they've lived about 30 years.
Alignment. Ratfolk are strongly inclined to follow their own path, preferring freedom over all else, which makes them strongly chaotic. Ratfolk are rarely evil, but most are morally neutral.
Size. Ratfolk look thin and frail, standing about 5'3” and 5'6”, and weighing around 110–120 lbs. Your size is Medium.
Speed. Your base walking speed is 35 feet. Ratfolk are quick on their feet.
Darkvision. You are used to dark areas, and your eyes have adjusted to such. You can see in dim light within 60 feet 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 grey.
Sneaky. You have proficiency in the Stealth skill.
Thin Frame. You can squeeze through spaces as if you were a Small creature.
Languages. You can speak, read, and write Common and rat Speech. If not using a setting with multiple beastfolk races, you can substitute Beast Speech for one other language of your choice.
Subrace. Ratfolk are separated into two subraces, Prestigious and Plagued, which come with different benefits. Choose one of these subraces.

Prestigious Ratfolk

Prestigious ratfolk are cynical like their Plagued, and regular counterparts, and just as introverted, but they have a knack for blending into society. They prefer to live on the fringes of nation's cities. Many disdain authority, but simply attempt to keep away from law enforcement, believing they will be left alone if they leave others alone.

Prestigious ratfolk are cynical like their Plagued, and regular counterparts, and just as introverted, but they have a knack for blending into society. They prefer to live on the fringes of the island nation's cities. Many disdain authority, but simply attempt to keep away from law enforcement, believing they will be left alone if they leave others alone. The dark hair on their bodies gives them an advantage in dark environments.

Ability Score Increase. Your Charisma score increases by 1.
Duplicity. You have proficiency in the Deception skill.

Plagued Ratfolk

Plagued ratfolk fit well the rebellious nature of their race; they have no love for civilization and laws, preferring the freedom and unpredictability of the wilderness. Most windfoot ratfolk are cautious and untrusting of others who come near their territory, but they have keen eyes and quick feet, giving them a distinct advantage when they they have to stay moving in a hostile environment.

Ability Score Increase. Your Wisdom score increases by 1.
Keen Senses. You have proficiency in the Perception skill.
Plagued Celerity. You don't get stopped easily. During your first turn in combat, opportunity attacks against you have disadvantage, and difficult terrain doesn't cost you extra movement.
Light Fur. Your bright hair makes it rather difficult to hide properly. You have disadvantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks made to hide in bright or dim light.

 

Ratfolk Traits

As Ratfolk, you have the following racial traits.

Creature Type

You are a Humanoid.

Size

You are Medium or Small.

Speed

Your walking speed is 35 feet.

Darkvision

You can see in dim light within 60 feet of you as if it were bright light and in darkness as if it were dim light. You discern colors in that darkness only as shades of gray.

Sneaky

Sneaky. You have proficiency in the Stealth skill.

Thin Frame

Thin Frame. You can squeeze through spaces as if you were a Small creature even if you're not.