Homebrew DESMODU Species Details

The Desmodu are a race of agile, sharp-eared batfolk who make their homes in deep caverns far from the surface world. Guided more by sound than light, they navigate twisting tunnels with uncanny precision, using their sensitive ears and natural echolocation to perceive their surroundings. Their flexible limbs and gripping digits let them cling to walls and ceilings with ease, while their leathery wings grant them controlled, darting flight when unburdened by heavy gear.

 

Desmodu cities are carved into cave networks where sound is a vital part of daily life. Their architecture is shaped with acoustics in mind, allowing music, spoken messages, and warning signals to travel cleanly through the stone passages. To Desmodu, sound is art, communication, and survival all at once.

 

Although born underground, many Desmodu feel a powerful curiosity about the world above. The open sky, unfamiliar landscapes, and new cultures often draw them to adventuring life. Their keen senses, natural agility, and thoughtful, perceptive nature make them exceptional scouts, artisans, and wanderers. Whether exploring old ruins, mapping dark tunnels, or soaring through open air, Desmodu move through the world with quiet grace and a keen awareness of every echo.

 

DESMODU Traits

As a Desmodu, your keen hearing, agile limbs, and limited echolocation reflect your subterranean origins. Your ability to climb, cling to stone, and take flight when unburdened gives you unique ways to navigate the world around you.

Echolocation

You emit high-frequency sounds to perceive your environment. You gain Echolocation out to 10 feet. While you aren’t deafened and aren’t in an area of magical silence, you can detect creatures and objects within this radius without relying on sight. You cannot read text, perceive color, or detect purely visual illusions using this sense.

 

Climber’s Grip

Your limbs and digits allow you to cling to vertical surfaces or ceilings if at least one limb is free. While clinging and not moving, you have half cover (+2 AC and +2 Dexterity saving throws). Your climbing speed is equal to your walking speed (30 feet).

 

Flight

You have a flying speed of 30 feet. You can only use this flying speed while not wearing medium or heavy armor. You must end your turn on a surface that can support you; you cannot hover indefinitely in the air.

 

Darkvision

You can see in dim light within 60 feet as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. You cannot discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.

 

Keen Hearing

Your hearing is exceptionally sensitive, allowing you to notice faint noises that escape most other creatures. You have advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on hearing.