The term Beastfolk is a scholarly convenience rather than a true racial or cultural designation.
It refers collectively to a wide variety of sapient peoples who possess physical characteristics resembling those of animals, including the Aarakocra, Centaurs, Grung, Harengons, Kenku, Leonin, Lizardfolk, Locathah, Loxodons, Minotaurs, Owlin, Tabaxi, and Tortles.
The Yuan-ti are often included in this category by less precise authors, though their long history as one of the Great Nations of the world generally warrants separate treatment.
Despite comprising the largest population group on Andórë, the Beastfolk have long been regarded with suspicion or condescension by many of the so-called civilized peoples of the world. Such attitudes are unfortunate and frequently based upon ignorance, for the Beastfolk are no less intelligent, sophisticated, or capable than any other people.
Indeed, many scholars have observed that the term Beastfolk says more about the prejudices of those using it than it does about the peoples being described.
The greatest concentration of Beastfolk lies within the region commonly known as the Beastlands, a vast territory east of the Kingdom of Oreinerius. There, millions of Beastfolk live in a patchwork of city-states, tribes, aeries, wandering communities, and settlements that often function with remarkably little formal government.
To outsiders, such societies can appear chaotic or primitive.
Closer examination suggests otherwise.
Most Beastfolk communities place tremendous value upon mutual responsibility, hospitality, personal reputation, and respect for elders and tradition. Many possess legal systems far simpler than those of the Great Nations, yet they maintain order and stability with surprising effectiveness.
Because the peoples grouped under the name Beastfolk are so extraordinarily diverse, any broad statement regarding their customs, beliefs, or temperaments should be treated with caution.
An Aarakocra and a Tortle may have no more in common with one another than an elf has with a dwarf.
Nevertheless, centuries of shared trade, geographic proximity, and outside prejudice have given rise to certain common values that are widely recognized throughout the Beastlands: hospitality, clan loyalty, respect for nature, and a strong sense of communal responsibility.
Though often underestimated by outsiders, the Beastfolk have endured for thousands of years while preserving ways of life unlike those found anywhere else in Andórë.
Perhaps the greatest mistake one can make is assuming that the Beastfolk are a single people.
They are not.
They are many peoples who happen to be viewed through the same lens.
Sub-Cultures¶
Because the term Beastfolk encompasses a great many distinct peoples, it is impossible to speak of a single Beastfolk culture.
Scholars traditionally divide the Beastfolk into four broad groups based upon their physical characteristics:
- Amphibian: Grung and Locathah
- Avian: Aarakocra, Kenku, and Owlin
- Mammalian: Centaurs, Harengons, Leonin, Loxodons, Minotaurs, and Tabaxi
- Reptilian: Lizardfolk and Tortles
Even these categories are imperfect and exist primarily for the convenience of scholars.
Within the Beastlands itself, loyalties are more commonly organized around tribes, clans, cities, families, and local traditions than around these broad classifications.
The mountain Aarakocra aeries differ greatly from the river settlements of the Locathah. The wandering Tabaxi have little in common with the settled Loxodons. A Minotaur clan may possess traditions entirely unknown to a neighboring Leonin pride.
Yet despite these differences, many Beastfolk communities share certain cultural tendencies.
Hospitality is widely valued, as is respect for elders and the wisdom of ancestors. Many communities emphasize communal responsibility over individual ambition and possess a deep reverence for the natural world and the changing of the seasons.
Perhaps because they have so often been grouped together by outsiders, many Beastfolk also possess a sense of kinship with peoples different from themselves.
A saying commonly heard in the Beastlands expresses this sentiment:
"Different paws, same trail."
Though no Beastfolk would claim that all their peoples are one, many are willing to stand beside one another when the outside world insists upon treating them as though they were.
Naming Traditions¶
Because the term Beastfolk encompasses many different peoples, no single system of names exists among them. Naming traditions vary widely from one species and culture to another.
- Aarakocra generally bear a gender-neutral given name followed by a family name. Their names often contain chirps, whistles, and other sounds inspired by the natural world.
- Centaurs traditionally possess a gendered given name followed by a clan name. Clan identity is highly important in many centaur societies, and one's clan often carries considerable social significance.
- Grung bear gender-neutral names and do not use surnames. By ancient custom, a Grung's name begins with a letter corresponding to their coloration, followed by an apostrophe: b for blue, c for gold, g for green, n for orange, p for purple, and r for red.
- Harengons use gendered given names and generally do not employ surnames.
- Kenku possess gender-neutral names and do not use surnames. Their names are often inspired by sounds, places, or memorable events.
- Leonin traditionally use a gendered given name followed by a clan name, with family and pride affiliations forming an important part of their identity.
- Lizardfolk bear gender-neutral names and generally do not use surnames. Their names are often simple and descriptive.
- Locathah use gender-neutral given names and do not employ surnames.
- Loxodons traditionally bear gendered given names but do not generally use family names.
- Minotaurs possess a gendered given name followed by a clan name. Among many Minotaur communities, clan ties are a matter of great pride and loyalty.
- Owlin traditionally use a gendered given name followed by a clan name.
- Tabaxi generally bear a gender-neutral given name followed by a clan name. Their names are often colorful, descriptive, or inspired by notable events and personal characteristics.
- Tortles possess gender-neutral given names and generally do not use surnames.
These traditions are by no means universal. Trade, migration, adoption, and life among other peoples have produced countless variations and exceptions.
Indeed, one of the few naming customs shared among the Beastfolk is the belief that a person's name should mean something, whether it honors an ancestor, records a noteworthy event, or reflects a connection to family, clan, or the natural world.
As an old Beastfolk proverb states:
"A good name should tell a story."
Beauty Ideals¶
The beauty ideals of the Beastfolk are as diverse as the peoples themselves, and any attempt to establish a single standard is doomed to failure.
In general, Beastfolk tend to value qualities that indicate health, capability, and fitness according to the standards of their own kind. Healthy fur, feathers, scales, or skin are widely admired, as are well-maintained claws, talons, horns, tusks, or hooves.
Many Beastfolk societies also place great importance on qualities beyond mere appearance. Bravery, wisdom, grace, humor, and skill are all considered attractive traits among one people or another.
Because the Beastfolk encompass so many different peoples, beauty is often judged according to highly specific cultural ideals:
- Aarakocra frequently admire strong wings and vibrant plumage.
- Centaurs value physical fitness, strong builds, and healthy coats.
- Harengons often prize intelligence, quick wit, and expressive features.
- Leonin traditionally admire strength, confidence, and courage.
- Lizardfolk and Tortles often value health and capability over ornamentation.
- Loxodons frequently esteem wisdom, calm demeanor, and physical presence.
- Minotaurs often prize strength and imposing stature.
- Tabaxi commonly admire agility, grace, and attractive patterns in fur or markings.
- Owlin often appreciate expressive eyes and well-kept plumage.
- Locathah and Grung generally value signs of health and vitality within their communities.
Among the Beastfolk, beauty is rarely separated from usefulness or character. One who contributes to their family, clan, or community is often considered more attractive than one who possesses pleasing features alone.
Gender Ideals¶
The many peoples collectively known as the Beastfolk hold a wide variety of beliefs regarding gender, family, and social roles.
Among the Grung and Locathah, concepts of gender are often less pronounced than among other peoples due to their methods of reproduction, and social roles tend to be determined more by age, experience, or ability than by sex.
Many Avian peoples, including the Aarakocra, Kenku, and Owlin, generally possess comparatively egalitarian views regarding gender, with both males and females participating broadly in the duties and responsibilities of their communities.
The Reptilian peoples, particularly the Lizardfolk and Tortles, also tend toward practical and relatively egalitarian views, valuing capability over rigid social expectations.
Among the Mammalian Beastfolk, however, gender expectations vary considerably.
Centaurs and Minotaurs often possess more traditional, patriarchal societies, while Loxodon communities frequently grant greater authority to women and elder matriarchs. Leonin tend toward more balanced views, with leadership often determined by merit or circumstance.
Species that commonly produce litters of offspring, such as the Tabaxi, often maintain more traditional and strongly defined family roles. The responsibilities associated with raising several young at once have historically encouraged clear divisions of labor and a greater emphasis on family structure and parental obligations.
This should not be mistaken for a lack of respect between the sexes. In many such societies, these roles are viewed not as restrictions but as complementary responsibilities necessary for the well-being of the family and clan.
As with all peoples, however, individuals frequently depart from the expectations of their society, and customs vary considerably between tribes, cities, and families.
Among the Beastfolk, there is an old saying:
"Every den, nest, and burrow has its own rules."
Relationships and Courtship¶
As with nearly every aspect of Beastfolk society, attitudes toward relationships and courtship vary considerably among the many peoples grouped beneath this broad designation.
Nevertheless, certain themes appear repeatedly throughout the Beastlands.
Relationships are generally founded upon mutual trust, respect, and cooperation. Family and clan ties are highly valued, and courtship often involves gift-giving, displays of skill, or acts demonstrating one's ability to contribute to the community.
Many Beastfolk societies place great importance upon public displays of commitment and expect prospective partners to earn the respect not only of one another, but also of each other's families and clans.
Monogamy is the most common form of partnership among the Beastfolk, though other arrangements exist and are generally treated as matters of local custom rather than universal law.
Courtship traditions differ widely:
- Aarakocra, Owlin and Kenku often engage in elaborate displays, songs, or the exchange of interesting objects.
- Centaurs and Minotaurs may demonstrate physical prowess, hunting ability, or martial skill.
- Harengons and Tabaxi frequently favor contests of wit, games, and playful competition.
- Leonin and Loxodons often exchange meaningful gifts and place great importance upon the approval of family and clan.
- Lizardfolk and Locathah commonly express affection through acts of service and practical assistance.
- Grung are known for intricate vocalizations and ritualized dances performed during courtship.
Among all the Beastfolk, however, the customs of the Tortles are perhaps the most unusual.
Tortles generally mate for life and form deep, enduring bonds with their chosen partners. Yet mated Tortles rarely live together.
The wandering spirit of the Tortles compels most to spend their lives traveling the world alone. Instead of establishing a permanent household, mated pairs traditionally agree upon a particular place and specific times at which they will reunite.
These meetings may occur once a year, once every few years, or according to some other arrangement understood only by the pair.
When the appointed time arrives, each partner returns to the agreed-upon place, where they may spend days, weeks, or even months together before once again departing upon their separate journeys.
To many outsiders, such relationships seem lonely or strange.
To the Tortles, however, they are considered profoundly romantic.
Among the Tortles, it is said:
"The longest journeys are easier when you know where someone is waiting for you."
Because of the extraordinary diversity of the Beastfolk, no single philosophy regarding love or family can truly encompass them all.
As another old saying from the Beastlands reminds us:
"Every heart follows its own trail."
Common Etiquette¶
Because the Beastfolk encompass so many distinct peoples, no universal code of etiquette exists among them. Nevertheless, a number of customs are sufficiently widespread throughout the Beastlands that travelers would do well to observe them.
Foremost among these is the importance of hospitality.
Among many Beastfolk communities, a guest who has been invited into one's home is entitled to food, drink, and shelter, and is expected in turn to show gratitude and respect to their host. To abuse such hospitality is considered deeply shameful.
Likewise, many Beastfolk place tremendous importance upon respect for elders. Age is often associated with wisdom and experience, and younger members of the community are generally expected to listen attentively to those who have lived long lives.
Another common custom is the exchange of small gifts. A visitor arriving empty-handed is not necessarily considered rude, but bringing a token of appreciation is often viewed favorably.
Many Beastfolk also value directness and honesty. While diplomacy and politeness are appreciated, deliberate deception or needless formality can be viewed with suspicion, particularly among smaller communities where reputation carries great weight.
Finally, clan, family, and community ties are often considered matters of great importance. One's actions are frequently understood to reflect not only upon the individual, but also upon their kin.
Common Dress¶
The clothing of the Beastfolk is as diverse as the peoples themselves.
Practical considerations often shape fashion more than abstract notions of style.
Aarakocra and Owlin frequently favor garments that do not impede flight. Centaurs require clothing designed to accommodate their unusual bodies, and Minotaurs, Loxodons, and Leonin often prefer durable attire that can withstand demanding physical activity.
Many Beastfolk also possess natural features that influence how they dress:
- Horns may make certain hats impractical.
- Tails often require specially tailored garments.
- Wings, feathers, scales, or thick fur can greatly affect what is considered comfortable.
- Aquatic species may wear comparatively little clothing when in their native environments.
Adornment is nevertheless common throughout the Beastlands. Jewelry, beads, feathers, carved bone, colorful fabrics, tattoos, and decorative braids are all popular means of displaying personal achievements, family affiliations, or social status.
Many Beastfolk also make frequent use of practical accessories such as satchels, belts, and pouches, particularly among peoples with wandering traditions.
Customs and Traditions¶
Despite their tremendous diversity, several customs are remarkably widespread among the Beastfolk.
Hospitality is nearly universal and is often regarded as a sacred obligation.
Gift-giving is also common and serves as an expression of gratitude, respect, friendship, or courtship.
Many Beastfolk communities practice some form of ancestral veneration, believing that the dead continue to influence the living world and should therefore be remembered and honored.
Likewise, many peoples of the Beastlands possess a deep respect for nature and observe ceremonies connected to the changing seasons, migrations, harvests, or other natural cycles.
Clan loyalty and communal responsibility are also recurring themes. Family and community are frequently placed above individual ambition, and members are expected to contribute to the well-being of the group.
Many Beastfolk settlements also practice some degree of communal living, with resources, labor, and responsibilities shared among members of the community.
To outsiders, these customs can appear unusual or simplistic.
To the Beastfolk themselves, they are simply the natural way of living together.
Common Taboos¶
Because the Beastfolk are so diverse, taboos vary considerably between peoples and communities. Nevertheless, several principles are broadly respected throughout the Beastlands.
The abuse of hospitality is considered a grave offense. To harm a host, betray a guest, or steal from one who has offered shelter is viewed with particular disdain.
Likewise, the disrespect of elders is widely condemned. While age does not automatically confer wisdom, openly mocking or dismissing one's elders is generally regarded as shameful.
The betrayal of one's family, clan, or community is also treated severely by many Beastfolk societies. Reputation and trust are often the foundations upon which communities are built.
Wastefulness, particularly the needless destruction of food, animals, or natural resources, is likewise frowned upon by many peoples of the Beastlands.
Finally, many Beastfolk strongly object to being treated as though they are all one people.
Though outsiders often speak of "the Beastfolk" as though they comprise a single culture, the peoples themselves are keenly aware of their differences and individual histories.
As an old saying from the Beastlands reminds us:
"Many feathers, many scales, many paws—but never one beast."
Historical Figures¶
Stats¶
In all cases, the stat blocks and abilities for these species match those seen in their representative D&D 5E source books.
Scientific Classification
- Grung (Amphibian): Bufonida hominum saltator
- Locathah (Amphibian): Piscis hominum amphibius
- Aarakocra (Avian): Avianum hominum volatus
- Kenku (Avian): Corvidae hominum imitator
- Owlin (Avian): Strigida hominum sagax
- Centaur (Mammalian): Equus hominum biformis
- Harengon (Mammalian): Leporida hominum agilis
- Leonin (Mammalian): Felida hominum regalis
- Loxodon (Mammalian): Proboscidea hominum magnus
- Minotaur (Mammalian): Bovida hominum labyrinthum
- Tabaxi (Mammalian): Felida hominum furtivus
- Lizardfolk (Reptilian): Lacertida hominum scutatus
- Tortle (Reptilian): Testudina hominum sagax
- Yuan-ti (Reptilian): Serpentum hominum venenatus