Homebrew Feverbeast Species Details

Feverbeasts are a long-lived race found naturally dwelling within The Between, the given name for the dimension all creatures dreams and nightmares originate. A Feverbeast sustains itself on the emotional energy produced during sleep. Nightmares are the richest source of nourishment, sharp with fear and vivid sensation, though pleasant dreams provide sustenance as well. When feeding carefully, a Feverbeast can draw away the worst of a sleeper’s terror, leaving behind calm and undisturbed rest. When reckless or starving, however, they can drain a dream entirely, leaving the dreamer hollow, restless, and emotionally empty. For this reason, the few cultures that know of their existence regard them with suspicion, superstition, or outright hostility.

Physically, Feverbeasts possess an unnerving, otherworldly presence. Their forms often reflect distorted elements of mortal imagination—elongated smiles, too-bright eyes, patterns that seem intended to hypnotise, and willowy movements that feel slightly out of rhythm with reality. Their gaze lingers too long. Their smiles show too many teeth. Even when they mean no harm, something about them unsettles those who rely on instinct.

Yet Feverbeasts are not mindless hunters. They are deeply attuned to emotion and thought, often developing a quiet empathy for the creatures they feed upon. Long exposure to mortal dreams grants them insight into fear, hope, regret, and desire. Some become guardians of the vulnerable, feeding only to ease suffering.

 

Feverbeast Traits

Feverbeasts share certain racial traits as a result of their ties to The Between

Darkvision

Feverbeasts are able to see up to 60ft away in pitch black conditions

Sleep Immunity

Feverbeasts are immune to being forced to sleep by magical means. Any enchantments or spells cast with this intention upon a Feverbeast automatically fail

Oneiric Feeding

Allows the Feverbeast to feed on the thoughts or dreams of a nearby humanoid to gain 1d10 hit points. If they are unaware of the Feverbeasts presence then the feeding is successful. If they are spotted, the target must do a wisdom saving throw. If they succeed, the feeding is interrupted and the target reacts accordingly. If they fail, the target is Frightened for one turn

Dream Scent

The Feverbeast is able to detect any creature sleeping in a 30ft radius, even through solid obstructions, as long as there is a direct path to that creature