Homebrew Avian Species Details

A birdlike race of humanoids hailing from the planet Avos, their stone structures, simple clothing, deeply-religious nature and rather simplistic battle tactics (primarily consisting of "overwhelm the enemy with thousands of disposable soldiers") make them seem primitive at first glance. But the Avian are very intelligent, and anyone brave or foolish enough to venture into an Avian temple or tomb will find examples of advanced -and deadly- technology, powered by Avolite crystals. These enigmatic power sources are mined solely by the Stargazer priests on their homeworld, and power everything from simple lights to spaceships capable of interstellar travel.

Avian culture is centered around the worship of Kluex, the "Winged God of the Aether". According to their religion, the Avian once existed outside the mortal plane alongside their god, but grew jealous of the mortals' pleasures. The Avians crossed into the material world, an act punished by stripping them of their ethereal wings, dooming them to be forever flightless. An Avian can only be reunited with Kluex by shedding their mortal body while keeping the truest of faith in their hearts. Ceremonies to achieve this state of pure being include ritualistic sacrifices of captured enemies, and an elaborate procession that culminates in the most devout, chosen by the priests, climbing a tall tower and taking a leap of faith, their spirit breaking free of their mortal prison and flying into the Aether, as their now-discarded body plummets to the ground below.

This bloody theology does not sit well with all Avians however, and a growing number have rejected the words of the Stargazers and the divinity of Kluex. Calling themselves "Grounded", they have taken to the stars and formed their own colonies. Some have crafted terrestrial flying ships and make their lives in piracy, and many others have joined multi-racial organizations like the Terrene Protectorate.

Avian Traits

Avian are feathered, wingless birds.

Ability Score Increase

Your Dexterity score increases by 1, your Wisdom score is increased by 1, and two other ability scores of your choice increase by 1.

Languages

Avian can speak, read, and write English, Elvish, and Avian

Age

Avian have an average lifespan of 80-90 years, but some Avian life as long as 200.

Alignment

Avian can be some of the most friendly people you could encounter, but also some of the most violent, xenophobic zealots you've ever met.

Size

Avian are a similar size as humans, ranging from 5 to 6 feet tall, but are generally shorter. Your size is Medium.

Speed

Your base walking speed is 30 feet.

Enhanced Vision

You have advantage on perception checks.

Nimble

Avian are nimble and have advantage on saving throws when being grappled, and escaping them.

Skill Versatility

You gain proficiency in two skills of your choice.