Homebrew Crocodilian Species Details

In the land of Zootera, Crocodilians are a proud and warlike race deeply rooted in discipline, honor, and martial prowess. Their society is structured around rigorous training, unwavering loyalty, and a code of conduct that emphasizes strength and endurance.

Society and Culture

The Crocodilians live in Scalewatch, a fortified city-state built along the banks of a great river, surrounded by dense swamps and treacherous wetlands. Their society is governed by a dual leadership of elders and military commanders, ensuring a balance between wisdom and strength.

Agoge System: Young Crocodilians enter the Agoge at a young age, undergoing intense physical and mental training. This system instills discipline, resilience, and martial skills necessary for survival and success in their warrior culture.

Elders and Strategoi: The Geras, a council of elders, provides guidance and wisdom, while the Strategoi, military commanders, lead the Crocodilian forces and oversee the training of the young.

Hoplites: Adult Crocodilians become Hoplites, elite warriors who are the backbone of their military might. They are heavily armored and excel in phalanx formations, displaying exceptional teamwork and coordination.

Krypteia: An elite unit within the Hoplites, the Krypteia serves as both secret police and special operations forces, carrying out covert missions and maintaining internal security.

Values

Discipline and Honor: Crocodilian society is built on strict discipline and a code of honor. Every individual is expected to adhere to these principles, showing respect for their elders and comrades.

Strength and Endurance: Physical prowess and endurance are highly valued. Crocodilians take pride in their strength and ability to endure hardships, whether in battle or daily life.

Loyalty and Brotherhood: Loyalty to one's comrades and the state is paramount. The sense of brotherhood among the Hoplites is strong, prioritizing the needs of the community over personal desires.

Notable Leaders

Strategos Krogar Scalebane: The supreme military commander, Krogar is known for his tactical genius and unyielding determination. He has led many successful campaigns to protect and expand Scalewatch's territories.

Geras Lysandra Bloodscale: The elder matriarch of the Geras council, Lysandra provides wisdom and guidance. Her decisions are guided by ancient traditions and a keen understanding of the political landscape.

Krypteia Commander Thrakos Shadowfang: The enigmatic leader of the Krypteia, Thrakos is feared and respected. His ability to blend into the shadows and strike unseen has earned him legendary status.

In Battle

Crocodilian warriors are formidable on the battlefield, known for their disciplined formations and ferocity in combat. Their scales provide natural armor, complemented by heavy shields and spears. In battle, they move as a cohesive unit, crushing their enemies with relentless precision.

Creature Type: You are a Humanoid.

Size: Your size is Medium.

Speed: Your walking speed is 30 feet, and you have a swim speed of 30 feet.

Languages: You can speak, read, and write Common and Draconic.

Crocodilian Traits

As a Crocodilian of Zootera, you embody the disciplined and martial spirit of the Scalebane. Your training has endowed you with exceptional physical prowess and resilience, making you a formidable warrior on both land and water. Your natural armor and biting attack ensure you are always prepared for battle, while your ability to hold your breath and navigate swamps makes you a master of your environment. Additionally, your proficiency with spears, shields, and heavy armor reflects the rigorous training and discipline of your people.

Natural Armor

Your tough, scaly skin provides natural protection. When you aren't wearing armor, your AC is 13 + your Dexterity modifier. You can use your natural armor to determine your AC if the armor you wear would leave you with a lower AC. A shield's benefits apply as normal while you use your natural armor.

Bite

Your powerful jaws are natural weapons, which you can use to make unarmed strikes. If you hit with them, you deal piercing damage equal to 1d6 + your Strength modifier, instead of the bludgeoning damage normal for an unarmed strike.

Hold Breath

You can hold your breath for up to 15 minutes at a time. This ability allows you to stay underwater or in environments with no air for extended periods.

Phalanx Formation

When you are adjacent to an ally who is also using a shield, you gain a +1 bonus to your AC. This ability reflects the Crocodilian's training in phalanx formation and their emphasis on teamwork and coordinated defense.

Swamp Dweller

You have advantage on Wisdom (Survival) checks made to navigate and forage in swampy terrain. Your familiarity with these environments makes you adept at finding food, water, and safe paths through the swamps.

Warrior’s Discipline

You have proficiency in the Athletics skill. This reflects the rigorous physical training Crocodilians undergo from a young age, emphasizing strength, endurance, and physical prowess.

Warrior's Training

You gain proficiency with spears, shields, and heavy armor. This training is a cornerstone of Crocodilian society, ensuring that all members are prepared for combat and able to protect their homeland.