Homebrew Flumph-Folk Species Details

   "But have you seen it, the Flumph-Folk?" The first voice whispered, as if sharing a well-guarded secret.

The second observer, their eyes agleam with recognition, nodded in understanding. The Flumph-Folk, bathed in the gentle luminescence of the Underdark's fungi, embodied the very essence of this hidden world. Their skin, adorned with intricate pastel patterns, shimmered like an otherworldly tapestry.

Tendrils, resembling ethereal dancers, swayed gracefully within the tableau of the abyss.

As their eyes locked with the Flumph-Folk's, a silent communion unfolded—an unspoken connection that transcended words.

Legend whispered that encountering a Flumph-Folk brought undeniable fortune, an omen of serendipity woven into the fabric of subterranean cultures.

In this silent encounter, amidst the subterranean serenity, the Flumph-Folk stood as a living legend—a testament to the wonders of the Underdark, an invitation to explore its concealed treasures, and a reminder that fortune often favored those who crossed paths with this enigmatic being.

— Eldrian Stormwatcher, Chronicles of the Abyssal Depths

Flumph-Folk are a unique and enigmatic race born from the accidental fusion of alchemical experiments and the essence of flumphs, the ethereal jellyfish-like denizens of the Underdark. Originally conceived by alchemists in their quest to craft ideal companions or servants, the creation of Flumph-Folk was an unforeseen twist in their pursuit of perfection. These beings are often seen as anomalies, resulting from unintended consequences, or perceived as a mysterious curse brought about by unknown transgressions.

Flumph-Folk exhibit a diverse range of responses to their origins. Some maintain unwavering loyalty to their alchemist creators, faithfully serving them as intended. Others embark on journeys filled with adventure, driven by a quest to uncover their true purpose and form deep and lasting bonds with their companions. A few find themselves in a state of existential ambiguity, their calling shrouded in uncertainty. Nevertheless, their innate curiosity and enduring resilience propel them forward into the unknown, seeking answers to the mysteries that surround their existence.

Flumphian Traits

Flumph-Folk represent a distinctive race, their existence born from the unintended consequences of an alchemical experiment. They possess humanoid features while proudly displaying clear marks of their flumph lineage. Their skin comes in a spectrum of colors, including delicate shades of white and light bronze. What truly sets them apart are the ten large, gelatinous tendrils gracefully extending from the plates on their back. These tendrils undergo a gradual, mesmerizing color shift, adding an extra layer of mystique.  In the realm of hair, they exhibit a diverse array, ranging from solid, single-toned colors to entrancing gradients that further enhance their striking appearance.

Alchemical Connection

Flumph-Folk maintain a unique relationship with their alchemist creators. Rather than harboring resentment, they view their existence as a testament to the wonders of alchemy and the unpredictable nature of life in the Underdark. Many Flumph-Folk remain loyal to their creators, serving them faithfully as intended. This loyalty, however, is not exclusive, as they are quick to extend trust and friendship to others who prove themselves worthy.

Flumph-Folk Names

Flumph-Folk names are influenced by the cultures they encounter, their emotional states, and the otherworldly deities that often hold significance in the depths of the Underdark.

Cultural Names: When Flumph-Folk live among other civilizations in the Underdark, they often adopt names reflective of the local culture. These names can vary greatly and may include elements from Drow, Duergar, or other subterranean societies.

Emotional Names: Flumph-Folk, with their radiant emotions manifesting as a glow, sometimes take names that reflect their emotional states. These names can change over time as their emotions shift. Common emotional names include Sorrow, Cower, Tear, and Gloom.

Deific Names: The enigmatic depths of the Underdark are home to many mysterious and otherworldly deities. Flumph-Folk may choose names that honor these deities or represent their connections to them. Deific names often include elements such as Eilistraee, Lolth, Vhaeraun, or Selvetarm.

FRIENDLY CURIOSITY

Flumph-Folk, born from the fusion of alchemical experiments and ethereal essence, are often met with friendly and curious gazes in the Underdark. Renowned for their unwavering loyalty and innate hospitality, they extend a warm welcome to those who enter the depths, eager to prove that their character transcends their unique origins. Their luminescent emotions, conveyed through radiant hues, serve as a testament to their genuine and friendly nature, effortlessly bridging the gap of misunderstanding and emphasizing the power of trust and connection.

Flumph-Folk Traits

Flumph-Folk share characteristics with both humanoids and the enigmatic flumphs, and often share distinctive features.

Ability Score Increase

Your Intelligence score increases by 3.

Age

Flumph-Folk mature quickly, reaching adulthood by 15 and can live up to 80 years.

Size

 Flumph-Folk are about the same size and build as humans. You are medium.

Speed

Your base walking speed is 30 feet.

Flumph’s Vision

Your vision in dark and dim conditions is exceptional. Within 60 feet, you can perceive dim light as if it were bright light, and darkness becomes like dim light to you. Furthermore, you possess the unique ability to detect telepathic communication within 60 feet. However, your sensitivity to direct sunlight gives you disadvantage on attack rolls and Wisdom (Perception) checks under such conditions.

Alchemical Resistance

You have resistance to acid damage.

Emotional Luminescence

 Thanks to your flumph heritage, your emotions manifest as a radiant glow. You can manipulate this glow as you see fit, either concealing or revealing it at will. It's worth noting that excessive use of this ability can take a toll on your mental stamina, resulting in one level of exhaustion after each use. This exhaustion can only be alleviated by completing a long rest. 

Tendril Dexterousness

Your flexible tendrils grant you the ability to quickly handle items, reducing the time required for equipping them to zero. This action only consumes one item interaction. Additionally, your tendrils have an impressive reach, allowing you to manipulate objects within a 15-foot radius.

Emphatic Connection

 Your profound empathy toward other beings bestows you with an advantage on Insight checks aimed at discerning emotional states. However, this heightened sensitivity also makes you vulnerable, giving you a disadvantage on saving throws against being frightened or charmed.

Tendril Sting

Once during a short rest, you can employ your tendrils to deliver a melee attack infused with a mild paralyzing toxin. On a successful hit, the target must make a Constitution saving throw (DC 8 + your Intelligence modifier + your proficiency bonus) or become paralyzed for 1 minute. They may attempt the saving throw again at the end of each of their turns to break free from the effect. 

Flumphian Legacy

You know the poison spray and message cantrip, and can cast them at will without expending components. Once you reach the 3rd level, you can cast detect thoughts as a 2nd level spell once per long rest. Intelegence is your spellcasting ability.

Languages

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