Homebrew Awakened Cat Species Details
Gifted (though others would claim cursed) with consciousness via magic in the form of an intelligence equal to that of an average human, an awakened animal walks a narrow path between two worlds. They are forever removed from their animalistic life but are still driven by many of their old instincts and experiences. They have little need or want for most possessions, though most tend to have a few special items they guard fiercely. They have a tendency toward solitude but will happily join in with a party for warmth, shelter, and easy meals. The promise of a warm lap and generous scratching behind the ears is a good incentive as well.
Awakened Cat Traits
As an awakened cat, you have the following racial traits.Ability Score Increase
Your Dexterity and Wisdom scores each increase by 2.
Age
Awakened cats have no longer lifespans than any normal cat, unless their lives are magically extended, and can live up to twenty years.
Quadruped Frame
While not wearing armor, your Armor Class is equal to 11 + your Dexterity modifier. Due to your unusual body shape, armor costs twice as much as normal to be made for you.
Soulstone
As an awakened cat, you were created and are sustained in part by a magic gem called a soulstone, which is embedded somewhere in your body, and grants you your intelligence and some magical capability. While your ability to perform activities that would normally require hands is limited by your paws, the magic of your soulstone helps you make up for this: you know the mage hand spell, and can cast it without components. Intelligence, Wisdom, or Charisma is your spellcasting ability for this spell (choose when you select this race). For you, it has the following special properties:
- You can cast the spell as a bonus action.
- The spell lasts until dispelled, unless you fall unconscious, use your action to end the spell, or cast the spell again.
- While the hand remains within 5 feet of you, you can control it without using your action.
- While the hand is in your space, you can use it to wield a one-handed weapon and to activate magic items.
Darkvision
Accustomed to back alleys and small crevices, you have superior vision in dark and dim conditions. 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 can’t discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.
Cat's Talents
You have proficiency in the Perception and Stealth skills.
Languages
You can understand, read, and write Common. You also have the ability to comprehend and verbally communicate with other felines.
Feline Grace
When you take damage from a fall, you can use your reaction to reduce that damage to 0. Once you have used this trait, you can't do so again until you finish a long rest.