Physical Description:
Centaurs are an imposing sight, with the lower body of a powerful horse and the upper body of a humanoid, typically with broad shoulders and muscular arms. Their equine legs give them unmatched speed on the plains of Drekk, making them swift and agile. Variants of Centaurs exist with the lower bodies of elks or deer, who tend to be more attuned to the spiritual aspects of their culture. Their fur and skin tones vary from shades of brown and chestnut to gray and black, with humanoid features that can resemble humans, elves, or other fey creatures. Centaurs are known for their physical strength and natural grace, able to pull off great feats of both endurance and power.
History:
Centaurs were once one of the dominant races in Drekk, roaming in massive herds across the endless plains of the Feywild. When the Archangel Tytan appeared on Drekk, his arrival led to a major conflict with the Centaur herds. Many herds, proud and independent, resisted Tytan’s rule and launched attacks against his forces, leading to devastating losses. This conflict splintered their society, with some herds accepting the spiritual guidance of Tytan and becoming protectors of the natural world, while others clung to their wild ways, refusing outside influence and continuing their independent lives. Over time, Centaurs became fewer in number, but they remain a force to be reckoned with, known for their courage and their deep connection to the wild lands they roam.
Society:
Centaurs live in tight-knit herds that act as both family and community. These herds are highly territorial, and they take great care to maintain their lands and resources. Each herd has its own customs, but all Centaurs value strength, freedom, and respect for nature. The more aggressive herds are known to engage in raiding and looting, targeting other creatures for their resources. On the other hand, spiritual herds follow the teachings of Tytan, acting as guardians of balance and order in the Feywild, keeping the forces of chaos at bay. While conflicts between herds are not uncommon, the rule of not killing without reason is upheld by all Centaurs, making their internal disputes more about dominance and survival than mindless violence.
Centaurs are excellent hunters and trackers, and they often revere nature spirits or fey arch, seeking to maintain harmony with the natural world. Those who follow Tytan see themselves as sacred guardians of the Feywild, while the more nomadic herds continue to live by their own code, taking what they need from the land and defending their herds from any perceived threats.
View of Centaurs by Mortals of Midora:
To the commonfolk of Midora, Centaurs are creatures of legend, whispered about in taverns and immortalized in ancient songs and stories. Few have laid eyes upon them, and their existence remains the subject of myth and folklore. While the mortal races are familiar with the risks posed by creatures such as griffons, owlbears, and dinosaurs that roam the wild lands, Centaurs are seen as even more elusive and mythical. The occasional adventurer or wanderer may return with tales of these swift, powerful beings after venturing into their distant territories, but such accounts are often dismissed as exaggerations or the fanciful imagination of those who have traveled too far from civilization.
The notion of Centaurs, with their half-human, half-horse forms, inspires a sense of wonder, and many believe them to be protectors or spirits tied to the wilds. However, their rarity makes them subjects of awe and mystery, and in most parts of Midora, Centaurs are thought to be nothing more than the fading remnants of ancient myths. This perception further enshrines them in the collective consciousness as distant, untouchable figures—creatures of the feywilds, far removed from the mundane realities of mortal life.
Racial Names:
Centaurs often have names inspired by nature, animals, and their connection to the fey. They may also be named for legendary warriors or guardians of the past.