Homebrew Chelonari Species Details

Lore of the Chelonari

Origins

The Chelonari are believed to have been created by an ancient sea deity, Tethra, who sought to protect the natural world from the ravages of time and conflict. Legend has it that Tethra shaped the first Chelonari from enchanted sea stones and imbued them with the wisdom of the ocean's depths. These primordial Chelonari emerged from the sea with a mission: to maintain the balance of nature and safeguard its secrets.

Society and Culture

Chelonari society is deeply rooted in traditions and the preservation of knowledge. They live in close-knit communities called "Shellholds," typically located in serene coastal regions or hidden within verdant forests. Each Shellhold is governed by a council of elders, known as the "Sage Circle," who are revered for their vast knowledge and spiritual insight.

The Chelonari are skilled artisans, particularly known for their intricate carvings and detailed maps, which they etch onto their shells as both art and record of their personal and communal histories. These carvings often depict celestial patterns, historical events, and tales of heroism and wisdom.

Spirituality

The Chelonari worship Tethra as their primary deity, alongside a pantheon of nature spirits that embody various elements of the natural world. They believe in living in harmony with the land and sea, practicing rituals and ceremonies that honor the cycles of nature. The most significant of these is the "Tidecall," a grand festival where the Chelonari gather to celebrate the ocean's bounty and renew their vows to protect the environment.

Guardians of Knowledge

One of the most sacred duties of the Chelonari is the guardianship of ancient knowledge. They maintain vast libraries, often in the form of subterranean caverns filled with scrolls, artifacts, and magical relics. Chelonari sages are sought after by scholars and adventurers alike for their wisdom and guidance.

Adventurous Spirit

While many Chelonari prefer the tranquility of their Shellholds, some are drawn to the wider world by a sense of curiosity and duty. These adventurers, known as "Tidewalkers," travel far and wide to learn about other cultures, seek out lost knowledge, and combat threats to the natural balance. They are often seen as ambassadors and protectors, wielding powerful druidic magic and martial prowess honed over centuries.

Physical Characteristics

Chelonari have robust, turtle-like shells that provide natural armor and can be beautifully decorated with carvings and inlays. Their skin ranges from green to deep blue, and their eyes reflect the colors of the sea, from turquoise shallows to midnight depths. They move with a deliberate grace, embodying the patience and strength of their kind.

Relations with Other Races

The Chelonari are generally peaceful and diplomatic, earning the respect of other races through their wisdom and integrity. They have strong alliances with elves and druids, who share their reverence for nature. However, they remain wary of those who exploit natural resources or disrupt the balance of the world, often opposing such forces with fierce determination.

Chelonari Traits

The Chelonari are a wise and enduring race with turtle-like shells, known for their deep connection to nature and ancient lore. Guardians of knowledge and protectors of the natural world, they live in tranquil coastal and forest communities, embodying the strength and patience of the sea.

Shell Defense

You can withdraw into your shell as an action. Until you emerge, you gain a +4 bonus to AC and advantage on Strength and Constitution saving throws. While in your shell, you are prone, your speed is 0 and can’t increase, you have disadvantage on Dexterity saving throws, and you can’t take reactions. You can emerge from your shell as a bonus action.

Hold Breath

You can hold your breath for up to 1 hour at a time.

Nature’s Lore

You have proficiency in the Nature skill

Languages

You can speak, read, and write Common and Aquan

Age

Chelonari mature at the same rate as humans but can live up to 500 years.

Size

Chelonari are generally between 5 and 6 feet tall and weigh around 400 pounds. Your size is Medium.

Speed

Your base walking speed is 25 feet. Due to your turtle-like build, you have a swimming speed of 25 feet.

 

Natural Armor

Due to your shell, you have a base AC of 17 (your Dexterity modifier doesn’t affect this number). You can use a shield and still gain this benefit.

Ability Score Increase

Your Constitution score increases by 2, and your Wisdom score increases by 1.