Homebrew Dynastean (Hercules Beetle) Species Details
Emerging from tropical rainforests come the dynastean, a beetle-like species of people with a rugged work ethic, tenacious fighting spirit, and chivalrous hearts. They have an earthy common sense, and, to the surprise of many, are fairly intelligent- which can be seen in the architecture of their large stone temples, and their sturdy dwellings that blend in with the forest. They won't hesitate to step up and defend their communities from threats both magical and mundane, and frequently engage in tests of strength to settle disputes. Many outside their forest homes are shocked and put off by their appearance, but beneath their tough carapace and somewhat surly speech are big hearts who will take on Herculean tasks for their friends and family.
Size
Dynastean are Medium in size, standing at slightly over 4' tall at the top of their heads- however, because of their long horns, their total height is over 7'. Though already stocky they are surprisingly heavy and weigh in the area of 325 lbs.
Appearance
The dynastean are large, beetle-like humanoids with two arms and that stand on two legs. They have short and wide necks that support their heads, on which is their most notable feature: two horns, one curling up beneath and one curving downwards above, like a pincer in profile. The chitin of their tough exoskeleton is a speckled greenish tan color, while their faces, abdomen and limbs are a dark reddish brown color. Their eyes are a simple dark brown or black. Their hands have a thumb claw and two digits, and their feet have two forward claws and a back-facing one.
Age
Dynastean grow slowly as they develop their exoskeleton, becoming mature at about 30 years. In optimal conditions as adults they can live for about 200 years, though most are considered elderly at about 150.
Alignment
Valuing chivalry and strength, dynastean tend towards Lawful alignments and being able to contribute to the greater good. They have altruistic leanings but are often confrontational and prefer simple and forceful solutions to problems, for better or worse.
Language
The language of the dynastean, called Scarabese in Common, consists of clicks, humming, pops and a very small inventory of regular consonants. It is quite exotic and foreign sounding to most species, but surprisingly, it has been found to be related to the thri-kreen language, sharing a similar grammar but a divergent vocabulary; nonetheless, the two are mutually intelligible.
Names
Similar to thri-kreen dynastean take only a given name, with these names being unisex. Some examples include: Ukhula, I'lathi, Uuthi, Uulahpa, Atiniyukh, Neshpinti, Yachak, Shuu'akh, Uul'opo, Chikasunkhu.
Dynastean (Hercules Beetle) Traits
The dynastean are strong, straightforward and sturdy.Chitin Armor
The body shape and biology of the dynastean makes it impossible for them to wear armor as most species do, but fortunately, their chitinous exoskeleton provide more than enough protection.
Your AC is set at 17. You can't wear armor but can use a shield.
Horn Attack
The durable and mighty horns of the dynastean are a weapon they are adept at using. You have a natural weapon horn attack that deals 1d6 Piercing damage.
Heroic Build
Famed for their strength, the dynastean can move loads far heavier than one would expect for their size.
Your Carry, Drag, and Lift weight is one size larger, and you have advantage on Strength saves against being Grappled.
Tenacious
Aside from their tough exoskeletons, dynastean have vigorous constitutions and immense grit that lets them occasionally power through what would normally be fatal injuries.
If you would be reduced to 0 Hit Points or fewer, you can instead remain at 1 HP. Once you use this trait you can't do so again until you finish a long rest.
Darkvision
Dynastean, normally crepuscular and active in very low light, are able to see well in the dark. You have Darkvision to 60 ft.
Language
Scarabese, the native language of the dynastean, is surprisingly mutually intelligible with Thri-kreen. You can speak, read, write, and understand Thri-kreen.
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