Homebrew Ginny Di's Merfolk Species Details

Hues of the Sea
Merfolk are as diverse as the oceans they inhabit. Most have heads and torsos that could be mistaken for human if not for the kelp-like hues of their hair or the glittering traces of scales on their skin, combined with the tail of a fish or the powerful limbs of an octopus. But some merfolk resemble aquatic beasts more strongly, with furred seal-like faces or broad shark-like heads. The merfolk body commonly features colors that blend with their surroundings, such as blues, greens, and neutral shades, for both protection and predation. However, vibrant colors are not unusual in tropical environments, and merfolk who live in the darkest depths may sport bioluminescent markings. They may also have webbed fingers, gills, and ventral or dorsal fins in addition to tail fins.

Kingdoms Beneath the Waves
Merfolk can be found in diverse aquatic environments, from shallow coastal waters to the deepest parts of the ocean. But they are not confined to saltwater, and many thrive in freshwater environments like rivers and lakes. Like land-dwellers, some merfolk live in small settlements, while others build intricate cities, from sunlit coral palaces to sprawling, deep-sea metropolises. Merfolk societies are equally varied. Some interact regularly with terrans, engaging in trade and diplomacy, while others live so far from land that interactions with non-aquatic beings are rare.

Ginny Di's Merfolk Traits

Merfolk are as diverse as the oceans they inhabit.

Ability Score Increase

Your Intelligence score increases by 1, and your Charisma score increases by 2.

Age

Merfolk reach adulthood in their late teens and live less than a century.

Amphibious

You can breathe air and water.

Size

Tieflings are about the same size and build as humans. Your size is Medium.

Speed

Your base walking speed is 30 feet.

Darkvision

Thanks to your infernal heritage, you have superior vision in dark and dim conditions. You can see in dim light within 60 feet of you as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. You can’t discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.

Merfolk’s Breath

You can cast the water breathing spell once with this trait and regain the ability to do so when
you finish a long rest. Additionally, when you cast this spell on a creature, it gains a swimming
speed equal to its walking speed for the duration of the spell.

Sea Legs

As a bonus action, you can transform between your merfolk and humanoid forms. When in
merfolk form, you have a swimming speed equal to your walking speed.

Aquatic Affinity

If you spend 4 hours submerged in water during your long rest, you add 10 feet to your swim
speed until your next long rest.

Languages

You can speak, read, and write Common and one other language that you and your DM agree is appropriate for your character.