Goliath

Lore

Goliaths are a race of strong and hardy Giantkin, known for their physical prowess and indomitable spirit. They roam the mountains and hill lands of Eldetha in large, nomadic tribes. Goliath culture values physical strength above all, where each member must earn their place in the tribe or face death. This focus on strength and survival makes Goliath warriors a formidable force. It is not uncommon for settlements to leave out bountiful gifts of coin and ale for passing tribes, hoping to avoid incurring their wrath.

Physical Characteristics

• Height: Typically stand between 7 and 8 feet tall
• Build: Muscular and broad, with a stocky and powerful frame
• Skin: Usually gray or stone-colored, often marked with natural patterns resembling granite
• Hair: Sparse and typically black, though some Goliaths are completely bald
• Eyes: Pale shades, including blue, green, and gray, often described as "icy"

Society and Culture

Goliath society revolves around the concept of strength and merit. Each member of the tribe must constantly prove their worth, whether through hunting, battle, or physical challenges. Leadership is earned by those who demonstrate the greatest strength and skill. Goliaths are known for their nomadic lifestyle, moving through the mountains and hills of Eldetha in search of resources and challenges. Despite their harsh and competitive nature, they maintain a strong sense of camaraderie and tribal loyalty.

Key Aspects

• Strength Above All: Goliath culture prioritizes physical strength, and every member must earn their place in the tribe through merit.
• Nomadic Lifestyle: Goliath tribes roam the mountains and hills, living off the land and constantly seeking new challenges.
• Warrior Society: Goliath warriors are feared for their combat prowess, and even passing tribes inspire awe and caution among other races.
• Gifts of Peace: Settlements often leave offerings of coin and ale to appease Goliath tribes and avoid potential conflict.

Relations with Other Races

Goliaths are generally regarded with a mixture of awe and caution by other races. Their strength and nomadic lifestyle make them unpredictable, and while they do not seek to conquer or settle, they can pose a threat to those who cross them. Many settlements opt to leave gifts of peace for Goliath tribes in the hope of avoiding conflict. Despite their reputation, Goliaths respect strength in others and can form bonds of camaraderie with those who prove themselves worthy.

Race Traits and Abilities

• Age: Goliaths mature at the same rate as humans but have slightly shorter lifespans, living up to 80 years.
• Size: Medium (Typically between 7 and 8 feet tall, with a muscular build)
• Speed: 30 feet
• Mountain Born: Accustomed to high altitudes and cold climates, Goliaths have resistance to cold damage and are naturally adapted to mountainous terrain.
• Powerful Build: Count as one size larger when determining carrying capacity and the weight they can push, drag, or lift.
• Stone’s Endurance: Once per short or long rest, Goliaths can use their reaction to roll a d12 and add their Constitution modifier. They reduce the damage taken by that total.
• Athletic Prowess: Proficiency in the Athletics skill, reflecting their culture's emphasis on physical strength and endurance.
• Languages: Common, Giant