Homebrew Fusilier Species Details

They came out of nowhere, rushing us like the wind and leaving just as quickly. Some came right at us with swords and spears while others kept their distance, hitting us with a steady rain of arrows in a bid to keep our heads down. From what I saw, most of them were short, but all of them seemed to have wings sprouting from the small of their backs. The ones that
came right at us would dive down and strike quickly, before soaring back into the heavens where we could not hit them. Determined little buggers. - Garreth Shreik, Mercenary Company Captain

Physical Description

At first glance, Fusiliers seem nearly identical to your average human, especially if seen from a distance, or from the front while their wings are folded. While typically they are waved off as a form of Aarakocra or Aasimar, those who do so would be wrong, as Fusiliers are different in many ways. The first key difference between Fusiliers and their fellow semi-avian races is the location of the wings. Unlike the Aasimar, the wings of a Fusilier are found at the lower back - rather than the upper back near the shoulders.

In addition to these wings, a large, feathered tail not unlike most common species of bird or owl can be found at the base of the spine. It has been noted that in combination, these appendages allow Fusiliers to have far better control of their flight, as well as enable them a far higher degree of maneuverability than the other two races that they're often mistaken for. The next, and more noteworthy difference, is the obvious lack of feathers present outside those present on the wings and tail. Just as well, unlike the Aarakocra, the Fusiliers lack any form of natural weapons, such as the aforementioned race's talons.

 

History

Believing themselves secluded from the other races of Faerun, the Fusiliers have maintained several settlements over the continents. Still, this seclusion is far-fetched, as they have fought in numerous wars beside the other races of the realm, and do not believe themselves to be above anyone. They do, however, have no respect for laws that cause others to suffer and have ended up stirring up trouble on pilgrimages.

Society

The Fusiliers have done well for themselves and are more nomadic than other races, preferring to live around mountains and other high areas. While some permanent settlements exist, these are mostly filled with elders, children, and parents. Early in adulthood, Fusiliers are encouraged to make a long journey, either by visiting other settlements or exploring the lands. Some choose to never return to their villages. Fusiliers have become adept at trade; they trade mining supplies, clothing, and lumber with other settlements of a variety of races, as they do not commonly hold malice toward any race.

 

This is an adaptation of a homebrew race for D&D Beyond, with slight modifications for balance and clarity. The original was created by builder336 with Homebrewery. This race is based on the original art and world of the artist Asterisk Kome, specifically the Winged Fusiliers universe.

Fusilier Traits

As a Fusilier, you have the following traits:

Ability Score Increase

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

Age

Fusiliers mature faster than humans but age at about the same rate, achieving maturity at about 16 and with an average lifespan of 90 years.

Size

Fusiliers vary widely in height and build, though they generally tend to be on the small side, ranging from barely 5 feet to 5 and a half feet tall. Your size is Medium.

Flight

You have a flying speed of 45 feet. This flight speed is unchanged while wearing light or no armor. Having medium armor equipped will reduce your flying speed to 30 feet, and you cannot fly while wearing heavy armor.

Nimble Navigator

Thanks to your avian heritage, you have proficiency in the Acrobatics skill.

Languages

You can speak, read, and write Common, Auran, and one other language of your choice.