Homebrew Faunus Species Details

Physical Description

For the most part, Faunus bear a striking resemblance to humans, in both form and function. But for most, it is easy to differentiate between the two because every Faunus has an Animal Aspect. Every Faunus is born with a deep connection to the beasts of the world, which each embodies in their Aspect, giving each Faunus traits of a specific beast. Animal aspects always manifest themselves physically, giving a Faunus one or more body parts reminiscent of their bonded animal, such as cat ears, monkey tails, deer antlers, chameleon skin, and so forth. Aspects also manifest in more minor ways, such as eye color and shape, general hairiness, or sharp teeth. Even personality is determined in some form by aspect; aspects of prey species are often shy and meek, those of bulls are often brash, and those of cats have hankerings for tuna.

History

While there are some examples of Faunus that have forged their own civilization, truly, the history of Faunus has been dominated by the other races of the realms. In many realms, their animal aspects cause them to be seen as lesser than the more pure-blooded humanoids. At best, the racial tensions led Faunus to remain in isolated communities in the wilderness, surviving via their bond to nature. At worst, it led to mass enslavement. In many realms, the majority of Faunus were slaves at one point, and even in places that have progressed beyond that, the lingering resentment still holds major prominence in racial relations, for all sides.

Society

Because most Faunus come with the baggage of a history of enslavement, modern Faunus civilizations and enclaves are often very progressive, doing their utmost to overcome their past with new achievements. Education is highly valued, and deep appreciation of the arts, including martial. Yet these are accomplishments are still often marred by neighboring races, either disenfranchising Faunus living within their borders or political apathy for Faunus states. Many Faunus still live a much more subsistence lifestyle, either from forced or indentured labor or from living in tribal villages in the wilds. These populations are much more aggressive with relations to other races but form strong bonds within themselves for protection.

Faunus Traits

Individuals with a connection to nature that manifests in an Animal Aspect.

Ability Score Increase

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

Age

Faunus reach adulthood in their mid teens and live less than a century.

Alignment

 Faunus tend toward no particular alignment. The best and the worst can be found among them.

Size

Faunus vary widely in height and build, from barely 5 feet to well over 6 feet tall. Regardless of your position in that range, your size is Medium.

Beast Senses

You gain proficiency in Perception and one skill of your choice.

Darkvision

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.

Speed

Your base walking speed is 35 feet. And have a climbing speed equal to your walking speed, and it does not cost extra movement to climb.

Strider

Your legs are naturally better at jumping, your jump distance is doubled.

Languages

You can speak, read, and write Common, Sylvan, and one extra language of your choice.