Homebrew Ailurid Species Details

Ailurids mainly inhabit heavily wooded areas, as they are adapted to climbing trees. They have opposeable thumbs, but have one less finger joint than humans, making them less adept at weilding large, heavy weapons. Their fur provides a natural insulation against cold. Due to the presence of a tapetum lucidum, they have decent night vision, compared to humans. They are typically short and stocky, only reaching 5 and a half feet maximum.

They have a rich culture surrounding nature and the trees they live in. Respecting their environment is of utmost importance to them, and among the highest offences is damaging "home trees", where Ailurids live. Family is precious, and communities are often very tight-knit. Leadership is centered around elders, who usually form a council of sorts to make decisions. They have a few important rituals, specifically for birth, coming of age, and death. Most Ailurids undergo their coming of age ceremony at 20. They can live up to 160 years.

Due to their natural climbing aptitude and stubby fingers, most Ailurids excel at stealth or healing roles. Many are fond of blowguns, as they are easy to make and the forest provides all manners of substances to coat the tips of darts in. Daggers are also useful as a secondary weapon. Being instinctively attuned to nature, some others choose to pursue a more mystical route, channeling the energies and magic of the wilderness to mend and heal.

Most common citizens rarely encounter them, but those who frequent the woods may interact occasionally. They aren't hostile or unpleasant to other races, but they seem to prefer staying within their own. That isn't to say they wouldn't get along, but they tend to be creatures of habit.

Ailurid Traits

Ailurids have natural camoflage and insulation, and are overall a very hardy race.

Natural Insulation

Due to their thick fur, Ailurids are naturally insulated against cold weather. Even in freezing temperatures, they can stay warm.

Woodland Gift

Ailurids always know where to look for poisons and cures. By checking their surroundings, they can apply an effect to the tips of blowgun darts, arrows, and crossbow bolts, or they can find ingredients for spells and potions. Apply an effect to 5 projectiles or pick up 1d4 of ingredients immediately upon entering forested areas. This can be done again at any time but takes up 1 turn.

Ability Score Increase

Being naturally nimble, Ailurids get a bonus in dexterity. Their fluffy fur also gives them a constitution bonus.

Proficiency

Lighter weapons such as daggers, shortswords, shortbows, blowguns, and hand crossbows are favored by Ailurids.