Sylvatheres


sylvatheres


Description


The Sylvatheres trace their origins to an ancient and mystical endeavor by a secluded sect of druidic elves. These elves, guardians of the deepest groves and most secluded glades, held a profound connection to the natural world and its myriad creatures. Guided by a vision of harmony and peace among all beings, they embarked on a sacred mission. Their goal was to merge the essence of their kind with that of the were-creatures; were-bears, were-wolves, were-lions, were-elk, and were-creatures roamed the lands in both beauty and ferocity. These elves believed that by intertwining their lineage with these powerful beings, they could foster a new era of peace and understanding across the realms, giving birth to a lineage that could bridge the gap between the wild and the civilized.


This grand design was not without its challenges, for the essence of were-creatures was volatile, tied as much to the moon's phases as to the earth's ancient magic. Through rituals deep in the heart of the forest, under the watchful gaze of both moon and stars, the elves called upon the ancient spirits of the land. These spirits, manifestations of nature's deepest power, guided and aided the elves in their quest, ensuring that the merging of essences was done in harmony with the natural order.


Over centuries, the Sylvatheres came into being. Born of both elf and were-creature, they inherited the grace and connection to nature of their elven ancestors, and the strength, resilience, and transformative abilities of their were-creature kin. The Sylvatheres developed a society deeply rooted in the principles of balance, respect for all life, and a profound understanding of the cycles of nature.


Their communities are hidden within the most enchanted forests, where the barrier between the material world and the spiritual plane is thin. Sylvatheres live in harmony with the spirits of the land, which they honor as both protectors and guides. These spirits play a crucial role in the Sylvatheres' lives, assisting in personal quests, guiding their spiritual journeys, and aiding in the guardianship of nature. Sylvatheres druids, in particular, are adept at calling upon these spirits, weaving their essence into powerful spells that can heal, protect, and sometimes even transform the very landscape.


Sylvatheres culture is a testament to their dual heritage, celebrating both the serene beauty of elven traditions and the wild majesty of their were-creature lineage. Festivals align with the cycles of the moon and the seasons, each a vibrant homage to the forces that shaped their race. Their art, music, and crafts are inspired by the natural world around them, and their architecture is designed to blend seamlessly into the environment, often incorporating living trees and natural materials that reflect their respect for nature's sanctity.


The impact of the Sylvatheres on nature and the planes of existence has been profound. Their very presence has fostered a greater balance within the natural world, helping to heal scars left by conflict and encroachment. Their unique blend of elven magic and were-creature strength has also acted as a deterrent to those who would seek to harm the natural world, making the Sylvatheres respected guardians of the wilds.


As centuries have passed, the Sylvatheres have grown in wisdom and strength. Their understanding of nature and its intricacies has deepened, allowing them to uncover secrets long forgotten by others. Their relationship with the land and its spirits has evolved, granting them abilities that blur the lines between the physical and the spiritual, between the mortal and the divine. In their quest for harmony, the Sylvatheres have become a symbol of the possibility for peace and coexistence among all beings, embodying the hope that even the most disparate of creatures can come together to create something beautiful and enduring.




Traits


  • Ability Score Increase: Your Dexterity score increases by 2, and your choice of Constitution or Wisdom increases by 1.

  • Age: Sylvatheres live shorter lives than their elven ancestors, typically ranging from 175 to 200 years.

  • Alignment: With a deep respect for nature, Sylvatheres tend to be lawful, adhering to their own complex set of tribal laws. However, individuals may vary greatly.

  • Size: Sylvatheres stand much taller than most races, with an average height of 7 feet, but their slender build places them within the Medium size category.

  • Speed: Your base walking speed is 35 feet, reflecting your agile and nimble nature.

  • Languages: You can speak, read, and write Elvish and Sylvatheres. You can speak broken Common but cannot read or write it.

  • Darkvision: Your life in the jungle has honed your vision in the dark. You can see in dim light within 60 feet as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light.

  • Bestial Instincts: You gain proficiency in the Survival skill, a testament to your connection with the natural world.

  • Sylvatheres' Weapon Training: You are proficient with longswords, shortswords, spears, and shortbows, weapons commonly used in your tribal warfare.

  • Primal Connection: Once per long rest, you can communicate with beasts for 1 hour. This ability allows you to speak the language of local beasts and Fey, enhancing your bond with nature.

  • Mask of the Wild: You can attempt to hide even when only lightly obscured by natural phenomena such as foliage, heavy rain, mist, etc.

  • Trance: Like your elven ancestors, you don't need to sleep. Instead, you meditate deeply, remaining semiconscious for 4 hours a day in natural surroundings. In urban environments, this trance can take 6 to 8 hours, at the GM's discretion.