Physical Description:
Nekshou possess a blend of feline and humanoid characteristics. Their appearance ranges from resembling fully humanoid figures with subtle feline traits to more large cat-like individuals with prominent features. Typically, they have sharp, feline eyes with slit pupils, elongated and pointed ears, as well as retractable claws and teeth. Their skin tones vary from human-like colors to fur-covered bodies, with fur ranging from shades of black, brown, gray, or various patterns. Nekshou are well-muscled, agile, and possess remarkable speed, attributes akin to their feline nature.
History:
The Nekshou's origins are shrouded in ancient legend, believed to be a result of a divine curse imposed by the god of war, Takata, during the Lunora Civil War. Over time, this curse transformed certain lineages into the powerful and feared feline race known as Nekshou. Those who resisted the transformation became known as Halfbloods, individuals with a mix of human and feline traits.
Society:
The Nekshou established the Feline Coalition, forming secluded communities within Lunora's forests and mountains within the Kami Concord. They developed unique traditions, customs, and a language, reflecting a blend of human and feline elements. They are fiercely loyal to their communities and value their way of life. Skilled hunters and trackers, they have a deep respect for nature and the wilderness.
The Nekshou Tribes
The feline coalition consists of five main tribes, each with their unique characteristics and strengths.
- The Lyonessen tribe is the largest and most dominant tribe in the Coalition. They are known for their large prides and are respected by all other tribes. The Lyonessen pride is made up of Nekshou with lion characteristics. The Nekshou within the Lyonessen pride are particularly fierce and are known for their loyalty and strength in battle. The Lyonessen tribe holds the most power and influence within the Coalition due to their size and strength.
- The Jaguarian tribe is the smallest and most reclusive tribe within the Coalition. They are a lonesome people who prefer to live in solitude in the dense jungles of the continent. They rarely work with other tribes and are known for their independence. The Jaguarian Nekshou are agile and deadly, and their small size allows them to move quickly and quietly through the jungle. They are skilled hunters and are respected for their ability to survive on their own.
- The Tygerian tribe is the largest of the Nekshou tribes and is known for their strength and size. They are physically larger than the other tribes and are known for their ferocity in battle. The Tygerian Nekshou are excellent fighters and are often used as front-line soldiers in times of war. They are also fiercely protective of their territory and are known to be extremely territorial.
- The Pantherion tribe is the most elusive and mysterious tribe within the Coalition. They are known for their wisdom and knowledge, and many other tribes fear them due to their abilities to read omens and see into the future. The Pantherion Nekshou are solitary creatures who prefer to live alone in the mountains or forests. They are skilled hunters and are known for their excellent tracking abilities.
- The Cheethera tribe is the smallest of the Nekshou tribes and is known for their speed and cunning. They are the fastest of all the Nekshou tribes and are often used as scouts or messengers. However, they are also known for their laziness and will often avoid hard work if possible. The Cheethera Nekshou are excellent at evading danger and are known for their ability to think on their feet.
Comparison with Tabaxi:
While the Nekshou and Tabaxi may seem similar to the untrained eye, a fundamental distinction lies in their feline resemblances. Nekshou bear an uncanny resemblance to larger and more powerful cats like tigers, panthers, lions, jaguars, and other formidable species. Their physical characteristics echo the majestic traits of these larger felines, portraying strength and dominance in their appearances.
In contrast, Tabaxi often resemble smaller and agile felines such as caracals, lynxes, ocelots, and other sleek and swift creatures. Their stature and features reflect the agility and finesse associated with these smaller, more agile cats. This notable difference in their physical resemblance to feline species sets the two races apart, each embodying distinct qualities and attributes reflective of their feline counterparts in nature.
Racial Names:
Nekshou names often echo feline sounds or characteristics combined with human-like elements. Examples might include Astraclaw, Rynxheart, Kaelenpurr, or Zephyrwhisker.
Racial Feat:
- Ability Score Increase: Dexterity score increases by 2.
- Age: Nekshou mature at a rate similar to humans and have a comparable lifespan, living up to 70-80 years on average.
- Alignment: Nekshou can be of any alignment, but their nature tends to favor chaotic tendencies due to their feline instincts.
- Size: Nekshou are typically slightly taller and leaner than humans, ranging from 5 to 6 ½ feet tall, with their weight distributed in a manner that enhances their agility.
- Speed: Base walking speed is 40 feet and 30 feet climbing speed, reflecting their natural agility.
- Languages: Nekshou speak a unique blend of human and feline dialects known as Felinean, alongside Common or other regional languages.
- Vision: Nekshou possess darkvision, allowing them to see in low-light conditions within a range of 60 feet.
- Resistance: Due to their feline nature, Nekshou have resistance to being charmed and fall damage is halfed.
- Immunity: Nekshou are not immune to any specific conditions, but their feline instincts provide them advantage in navigating and surviving in wilderness and natural terrains.