Physical Description:
Aarakocra stand tall and lean with humanoid bodies adorned with feathers and bird-like features. Their wingspans vary but generally, they extend twice the length of their height, allowing them to soar gracefully through the skies. Their talon-like hands and feet possess razor-sharp claws, while their beak-like faces reflect their avian lineage, complete with keen eyes and sharp vision. Feathers adorn their bodies, the coloration and pattern unique to each individual and often tied to their family lineage or geographical origins.
History:
The history of the Aarakocra is marked by a fierce struggle against human expansion on the continent of Lunora. The Aarakocra once ruled the mountainous regions, valiantly defending their territories from human conquest. While they put up a formidable resistance, eventually they chose to join the emerging Nagan Empire. Their integration was a pivotal moment in the Empire's history, heralding an era of cooperation and unity between the Aarakocra and the human-dominated society. They have since become a revered and integral part of the Empire, known for their noble lineage and adaptability to various roles within its structure.
Society:
Aarakocra society values honor, valor, and adaptability. Within the Nagan Empire, they have diversified their roles, with some serving as respected merchants, skilled artisans, or esteemed nobles, while others maintain their warrior traditions. Their hierarchical structure is often based on lineage, with those of notable ancestry holding positions of influence and respect. They maintain strong familial ties and honor their heritage through the passing down of stories, rituals, and unique traditions. Aarakocra culture emphasizes unity and cooperation, valuing community over individuality.
Racial Names:
Aarakocra names are often melodic and syllabic, incorporating sounds akin to birdsong. Some examples might include Talonstrike, Skyfeather, Wingwhisper, or Crestcaller.
Racial Feat:
- Ability Score Increase: Aarakocra possess increased Dexterity and Wisdom due to their aerial agility and keen perception.
- Age: Aarakocra mature at a faster rate, reaching adulthood at around 3–4 years old and living up to 30 years.
- Alignment: Their sense of honor often leads them toward lawful alignments, though variations exist.
- Size: Aarakocra are medium-sized, with heights ranging from 5 to 7 feet tall.
- Speed: Aarakocra have a base walking speed of 30 feet and a flying speed of 30 feet.
- Languages: They speak Common and one other language.
- Vision: Aarakocra have sharp eyesight, possessing keen perception and excellent visual acuity.
- Resistance: Aarakocra have a natural resistance to falling damage due to their ability to fly.
- Immunity: Aarakocra lack specific innate immunities to particular ailments or effects, relying on their adaptability to overcome challenges.
Flight
Because of their wings, they have a flying speed equal to their walking speed. They can’t use this flying speed if they’re wearing medium or heavy armor.
Talons
They have talons that they can use to make unarmed strikes. When they hit with them, the strike deals 1d6 + their Strength modifier slashing damage, instead of the bludgeoning damage normal for an unarmed strike.
Wind Caller
Starting at 3rd level, they can cast the gust of wind spell with this trait, without requiring a material component. Once they cast the spell with this trait, they can’t do so again until they finish a long rest. They can also cast the spell using any spell slots they have of 2nd level or higher. Intelligence, Wisdom, or Charisma is their spellcasting ability for it when they cast gust of wind with this trait.