A Race for my new Campaign (Please PEACH) [Archive] - Wizards Community

Post/Author/DateTimePost
Cerridwyn_Alrose

04-21-08, 07:05 PM
This is my first shot, so please let me know what you think. I was also thinking of changing the name.

The Thraal

History: The Thraal are the ancient slave-warriors of old Netheril. Crafted by long lost magical methods and rituals that died along with the old empire, they are all but extinct in the present year. However, in their prime they outnumbered their masters by five to one. Kept in check by an “inborn” vulnerability to magic, the Thraal were the soldiers and guards of Netheril. Thraal are not born, but are rather grown. Each Thraal begins it’s life by awakening from a stasis within a crystal formation, magically sealed and preventing decay or aging effects. However, before it’s “birth”, the Thraal is of nearly full maturity, and has already been subconsciously taught military tactics, as well as a proficiency with most weaponry. Most Thraal were naturally destroyed with the empire of Netheril, however some of those still in stasis, have survived. Awakened from their slumber by surges of arcane energy, they would be rare wanderers, likely serving as mercenaries or adept soldiers.

Personality: Thraal typically have a warrior-like personality, along with a compulsion to prove themselves. To whom, they do not know, for this is but an innate desire placed within them long ago…in order to inspire heroics and obedience among their ranks. They are extremely loyal to those who have proven themselves worthy, willingly giving their lives for their companions if the need arises. Thraal typically cover themselves with tattoos or scars throughout their lifetime, all of which reflect personal triumphs or deeds. (A severed dragons head after the Thraal slays such a beast, or a series of scars to mark triumphant battles.) Note: The Thraal in Netheril, we bound to service once “born”, so they had no real personality of their own.

Physical Description: The typical Thraal stands anywhere from six to seven feet tall, and is extremely well muscled. Their skin is varying hues of blueish gray, and they are devoid of body hair. The Thraal have hair of either black, gray, or white (on their head). Their eyes are many different shades of blue, but all seem to glow with some arcane power. Thraal ears are semi-pointed (like a half-elf), and their facial features are very much Nordic. Note: Thraal blood has magical properties, given they were created by such. It’s also white in color.

Relations: The Thraal have no particular take on any other races, but tend to get along best with humans and dwarves…most notably the warriors of each race. However, they are capable of developing friendship with those of any race. Note: This is only for those whom are not bound by a mage.

Alignment: The Thraal are mostly Lawful in alignment, due to their discipline as soldiers. However, they are just as easily neutral as they are good or evil. Thusly, they can differ from individual to individual.

Languages: Thraal speak Netherese, and Common.

Stats: +2 Strength, +2 Constitution, -2 Wisdom. The Thraal are extremely well built, but lack the willpower of other races.
Medium: As medium creatures, Thraal have no bonuses or adjustments due to their size.
Weapon Proficiency : Thraal are proficient with all simple and martial weapons, regardless of class, as well as light and medium armor. However, any penalties for using said armor or weapons still apply.
Skills: +2 to Intimidate, climb, jump, and swim. Thraal are very well muscled and are considered by most that see them, to be rather intimidating.
Magic Vulnerability: Thraal are more susceptable to magic than other races, thus all DCs to resist spell effects are four higher than normal.
Bonus Feat: A Thraal may take a bonus feat at character creation from the list of Fighter Bonus feats at first level.
Favored Class: Fighter
Prohibited Class: Any Arcane Caster
Cerridwyn_Alrose

04-21-08, 10:58 PM
Hmm, twenty views and still no posts. Please people? I need some input.
Beowulf_gr

04-22-08, 06:15 AM
I think its quite an interesting race in terms of its history and its background. However in terms of racial abilities its somewhat incomplete i think. They don't seem that special to me to be worth a player to make such a character. The magic vulnerability is a big drawback, which of course is fine but maybe think about adding one or two more racial bonuses to make up for it. Finally why not make them proficient with heavy armor as well? I mean it would definitely fit their history if they could wear a full plate without penalties. But all in all its a very interesting race and a good effort. If you change it a bit i think i might try playing one of those in some campaign. Good job...
Cerridwyn_Alrose

04-22-08, 09:54 AM
Thank you. :D I appreciate the criticism. As I said, this is my first shot at a race, though I've been DMing a long time. The reason behind the lack of Heavy Armor was that I was unsure of whether an ancient culture would really take the time to craft such things for creatures they basically viewed as cannon fodder. But it's an interesting point. The vulnerability to magick is basically the old control system that was used against them, given they outnumbered their masters. Now, what would you reccomend for further abilities?
Beowulf_gr

04-22-08, 01:25 PM
First of all the point you're making about heavy armor makes perfect sense. My mistake. Now in terms of abilities, i think for example it would make sense to give them a bit of Damage reduction. Not too much obviously and it should definitely be /magic. So i think 3/magic would be fine. Another idea would be to give them a bonus feat at first level. He could choose one of the fighter bonus feats.
Cerridwyn_Alrose

04-22-08, 01:47 PM
I think I'll go with the bonus feat. Thanks again for the input. I just don't feel damage reduction would really fit the feel I was going for with the character.