Homebrew Dragon Newt Species Details

Dragonnewts

The Dragonnewts trace their lineage to the ancient dragons, their history intertwined with the divine influence of Ryujin, the Dragon God. Legends speak of Ryujin bestowing a portion of his essence upon select humanoid beings, creating the first Dragonnewts to serve as guardians and followers of his teachings. Others claim they are the result of a more natural evolution, where draconic magic imbued humanoid creatures with draconic traits. Regardless of their origin, Dragonnewts have established a vibrant culture centered around the Ryujin Kyodan faith.

Dragonnewts appear as humanoids with distinct draconic features. Their skin may bear subtle scales, and their eyes often possess a reptilian quality with vertical pupils. Some may have small horns or vestigial wing-like protrusions, subtle reminders of their draconic ancestry. Their physical builds are typically robust, reflecting their natural strength and martial traditions.

Scalebearers

Within the Dragonnewt society, individuals known as Scalebearers are revered for their exceptionally strong connection to their draconic heritage. These individuals are not a separate subrace but rather Dragonnewts who have been chosen or blessed with a deeper affinity to Ryujin’s power.

Scalebearers possess all the physical characteristics of other Dragonnewts, but their connection to their draconic ancestry is more pronounced. They are capable of transforming into a more draconic form, amplifying their strength and granting them access to draconic abilities. This transformation is seen as a sacred act, a manifestation of Ryujin’s divine favor.

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Dragon Newt Traits

Creature Type: Humanoid
Size: Medium (about 5–7 feet tall)
Speed: 30 feet

As a Dragon Newt, you have these special traits.

Ryujin's Resilience

The Dragonnewts' deep connection to Ryujin and their history of overcoming adversity has imbued them with remarkable resilience. When you are reduced to 0 hit points but not killed outright, you can drop to 1 hit point instead. You can't use this feature again until you finish a long rest.

Scalebearer

You know the Scalebearer Transformation spell. You can cast it a limited number of times between long rests. Once at 1st level and plus one at every even level. (2,4,6, etc.)

Lightning Resistance

You have Resistance to the lightning damage determined by your connection to Ryujin.

Darkvision

You have Darkvision with a range of 60 feet.

Ryujin's Strike

Dragonnewt training emphasizes precision and power. When you make a melee weapon attack, you can choose to deal 1d4 extra force damage. You can use this feature a number of times equal to your proficiency bonus, and you regain all expended uses when you finish a long rest. Increases damage dye every 5 levels. 5=1d6, 10=1d8, 15=1d12, 20=1d20