Homebrew Xylothian Species Details

"These people, similar to drow elves in appearance, having bold skin tones such as white and black for skin, and dark black sclera with light hues like white, or bright blue for pupils. They seem to be almost a deviance from elves in an evolutionary process, having taken to a massive tree and hollowing it out as a major city for them to stay in." - Dr. Zainab Mitchell.

 

Culture

The Xylothians, a race of seers and nature custodians, form close-knit communities within the heart of ancient forests. Guided by a deep reverence for the natural world, their culture revolves around harmonizing with the rhythms of the land. Elders, known as Rootweavers, lead these communities, passing down the wisdom of the earth to the younger generation. Xylothians engage in elaborate ceremonies, communing with the spirits of the forest and celebrating the changing seasons. Their homes, intricately woven into the colossal trees, reflect a seamless blend of architecture and nature.

Naming

Xylothian names are melodic and often inspired by the sounds of the forest. Given names are chosen based on the rhythmic patterns of wind through leaves or the soothing babble of nearby streams. Surnames are derived from the significant trees that sheltered the individual during their Naming Ceremony, marking a connection between the Xylothian and a specific tree spirit. These names carry the essence of their surroundings, reflecting the intertwined destinies of the Xylothians and the natural world they protect.

The Great Arboreal Nexus

At the heart of Xylothian culture lies the Great Arboreal Nexus, an ancient and massive tree that serves as both a spiritual focal point and a repository of accumulated wisdom. Elders gather within its sacred chambers to channel their visions, interpreting the will of the forest. The Nexus also acts as a communal space for important gatherings and celebrations. Legends speak of a mystical pool at its roots, said to grant those who drink from it the ability to perceive the threads of fate woven into the very fabric of the Xylothian existence.

Lifespan and Lifestyle

They live a very modest lifestyle, with the average Xylo living in a modest home, yet the race has a major upper class that lives in luxury in the upper parts of the tree. Those who leave the tree are usually not welcome back, and face scrutiny in the rest of the world similar to a Drow Elf would. They live for around 400 years,  maturing at around 35.

Xylothian Traits

The Xylothian possess a few abilities that are unique to their race.

Stat Increases

Your Wisdom score increases by 2, reflecting your attunement to the natural world and your race's spiritual connection. An additional score can be increased by 1.

Forest Affinity

You have proficiency in the Survival skill, and you can speak, read, and write Sylvan, the language of forest creatures and spirits.

Nature's Wisdom

You have advantage on Wisdom (Nature) checks, when in deep forests.

Arboreal Sensibility

You can communicate simple ideas with Small or smaller beasts that inhabit forests.

Darkvision

Accustomed to the dim light of their forest homes, Xylothians 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 green.

Age

Xylothians mature at a similar rate to humans but can live up to 300 years, attaining great wisdom over their extended lifespans.

Alignment

Xylothians are often in tune with the neutral aspects of nature, valuing balance and harmony. They tend towards a neutral alignment, respecting the cycles of life.

Size

Xylothians are medium-sized creatures, ranging from 4 to 5 feet tall. Your size is Medium.

Speed

Your base walking speed is 35 feet.

Verdant Pledge

Xylothians, upon reaching adulthood, forge a profound connection with a specific aspect of the natural world, embodying their commitment to preserving the balance of the forest. This choice, known as the Verdant Pledge, grants you unique abilities tied to your chosen aspect. Select one of the following options:

1. Whispering Gale: You gain proficiency in the Acrobatics skill, and you can cast the Calm Emotions spell once per day without expending a spell slot.

2. Rootsong Harmony: You gain proficiency in the Performance skill, and you can cast the Entangle spell once per day without expending a spell slot.

3. Moonlit Sentinel: You gain proficiency in the Perception skill, and you can cast the Moonbeam spell once per day without expending a spell slot.

4. Aurora Guardian: You gain proficiency in the Arcana skill, and you can cast the Faerie Fire spell once per day without expending a spell slot.

5. Stalwart Oakshield: You gain proficiency in the Athletics skill, and you can cast the Barkskin spell once per day without expending a spell slot.