Axolotlfolk

The Axolotlfolk, or Xolatl, are a unique and mystical race of amphibious humanoids native to the water-rich regions of the Gemlight Isles. Known for their adaptability, serene demeanor, and deep connection to water and nature, the Axolotlfolk are regarded as the healers, guardians, and water mages of the archipelago. They thrive in environments where water is abundant, such as the tranquil Sapphire Atoll and the dense jungles of Emerald Haven.
Appearance:

Axolotlfolk are small to medium-sized, standing between 3 to 5 feet tall. They possess a blend of humanoid and axolotl-like features, which makes them distinctive and enchanting to other inhabitants of the Gemlight Isles.

Their skin is smooth and slightly moist, often colored in shades of soft pink, white, lavender, black, or mottled patterns. This coloration can change subtly with their emotions or depending on their environment, helping them blend into aquatic and forested surroundings.

Their most recognizable features are their external gills, which are feathery and frilled appendages on either side of their head. These gills, often brightly colored in shades of red, orange, or purple, provide them with both a unique appearance and the ability to breathe underwater. Axolotlfolk have wide, lidless eyes that give them an innocent, curious expression. Their limbs are slender but strong, ending in webbed hands and feet that aid in swimming.

Culture and Society:

The Axolotlfolk have a culture deeply rooted in the elements of water, healing, and spiritual growth. They live in harmony with nature, often building their homes along the edges of lagoons, within river systems, or among the roots of giant mangrove trees. Their dwellings are intricately woven from reeds, water plants, and bamboo, often designed to flow seamlessly with the natural landscape and to remain buoyant in times of flooding or high tide.

The Axolotlfolk value peace, community, and balance. They are known as keepers of water magic, specializing in spells that involve healing, purification, and the manipulation of water. Many Axolotlfolk are revered as healers, herbalists, and water mages, using their deep understanding of the aquatic environment and its resources to create powerful potions, salves, and magical artifacts that can heal wounds or purify corrupted waters.

Spiritual Practices: The Axolotlfolk’s spirituality is closely tied to water. They believe in the

Water Spirits—elemental beings that govern the seas, rivers, and lakes. Rituals, dances, and offerings are made to these spirits to ensure calm waters, abundant rains, and plentiful harvests. Axolotlfolk shamans, known as Water Speakers, act as intermediaries between their people and the Water Spirits, performing ceremonies at sacred water sites like The Tranquil Springs and Azure Falls.

Social Structure: Axolotlfolk communities are led by a Council of Elders, who are typically experienced healers, shamans, or wise sages. The council oversees the well-being of the community, maintains their spiritual practices, and mediates in times of conflict. Young Axolotlfolk are encouraged to study healing arts, water magic, or become River Guardians—warriors who protect their waters from threats.

Language and Communication: The Axolotlfolk speak Nehua, a melodious and fluid language characterized by soft clicks, trills, and gentle waves of sound that mimic the natural ebb and flow of water. They also communicate through subtle body language, particularly using their frilled gills and expressive eyes to convey emotions.

Abilities and Traits:

Aquatic Adaptability: Axolotlfolk can breathe both air and water thanks to their external gills. They are natural swimmers with webbed hands and feet, granting them exceptional mobility in water.

Regenerative Healing: Axolotlfolk possess a natural regenerative ability, allowing them to recover from injuries faster than other races. This trait also translates into their magical abilities, enabling them to heal others with greater effectiveness.

Water Affinity: Skilled in water magic, many Axolotlfolk can manipulate water, create protective barriers, or summon rain to nourish their lands or douse fires.

Camouflage: Their skin tones can subtly change to match their surroundings, providing a natural form of camouflage in water or forested environments.

Notable Axolotlfolk Figures:

Nayeli Dewsong: A highly respected healer and water mage from Sapphire Atoll, known for her ability to 

commune with water spirits and harness the healing properties of the lagoon waters. Nayeli’s potions and salves are sought after across the Gemlight Isles for their purity and potency. She also teaches young Axolotlfolk the arts of healing and spiritual communication.

Chimalis Rainshadow: A renowned scout and protector of Emerald Haven, Chimalis is known for her stealth, agility, and deep bond with the flora and fauna of the jungle. She is a fierce defender of her people and often leads expeditions into uncharted territories to map new river paths and discover rare herbs.

Iktan Ripplegill: A young and adventurous Axolotlfolk who dreams of exploring the seas beyond the archipelago. As an apprentice navigator and talented mapmaker, Iktan creates intricate water charts that are prized by sailors and explorers. He is known for his curiosity and often ventures into uncharted waters to discover new mysteries.

Role in the Gemlight Isles:

The Axolotlfolk play an essential role in maintaining the harmony and balance of the Gemlight Isles. Their deep knowledge of water magic, herbalism, and healing arts makes them invaluable allies to all islanders. They are often called upon to purify corrupted waters, heal the wounded, or act as spiritual mediators. The Axolotlfolk's serene presence and dedication to peace and harmony make them one of the most respected and cherished races in the archipelago.

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Axolotlfolk Racial Traits

The Axolotlfolk, or Xolatl, are amphibious humanoids known for their affinity with water, regenerative abilities, and natural connection to healing and water magic. They are often found near bodies of water and are well-regarded for their wisdom and serene demeanor.

Ability Score Increase. Your Wisdom score increases by 2, and your Constitution score increases by 1.

Age. Axolotlfolk reach maturity by the age of 10 and can live up to 120 years.

Alignment. Axolotlfolk tend toward neutral alignments, valuing harmony, balance, and the natural flow of life. They are often good, as they strive to help others and heal the natural world.

Size. Axolotlfolk are small to medium-sized humanoids, standing between 3 to 5 feet tall. Your size is Medium.

Speed. Your base walking speed is 30 feet. You have a swimming speed of 35 feet.

Amphibious. You can breathe both air and water.

Regenerative Resilience. You have the ability to naturally heal more quickly than most. When you use Hit Dice to regain hit points during a short rest, you can reroll any 1s or 2s. You must use the new roll. In addition, you can regrow a lost limb or body part over the course of 1d4 weeks.

Water Affinity. You have proficiency in the Nature or Medicine skill (choose one). Additionally, you know the Shape Water cantrip. Starting at 3rd level, you can cast the Cure Wounds spell once with this trait and regain the ability to do so after a long rest. Wisdom is your spellcasting ability for these spells.

Aquatic Camouflage. You have advantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks made to hide while

you are in water or aquatic environments.

Healer’s Touch. When you use a spell or ability to restore hit points to a creature, you can add your proficiency bonus to the amount healed. You can use this trait a number of times equal to your Wisdom modifier (minimum of once). You regain all expended uses after a long rest.

Languages. You can speak, read, and write Common and Nehua, a melodic and flowing language characterized by soft clicks, trills, and gentle waves of sound.

Subrace. Axolotlfolk have a few different subraces, reflecting their unique traits and habitats. Choose one of the following subraces:

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Riverguard Axolotlfolk

Riverguard Axolotlfolk are guardians of their watery homes, known for their agility and protective nature.

Ability Score Increase. Your Dexterity score increases by 1.

River Strider. When moving through water, your speed increases by 10 feet.

Defensive Prowess. When you are hit by a melee attack, you can use your reaction to add +2 to your AC against that attack, potentially causing it to miss. You can use this trait a number of times equal to your Dexterity modifier (minimum of once) and regain all expended uses after a long rest.

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Lagoon Speaker Axolotlfolk

Lagoon Speaker Axolotlfolk are attuned to the spiritual and healing aspects of water, acting as mediators and healers within their communities.
Ability Score Increase. Your Charisma score increases by 1.
Water Speaker. You learn the Guidance cantrip. When you reach 5th level, you can cast Healing Spirit once with this trait and regain the ability to do so after a long rest. Wisdom is your spellcasting ability for these spells.
Spirit Call. As a bonus action, you can call upon a minor water spirit to assist you. For the next minute, when you roll a 1 on any d20 roll (attack roll, saving throw, or ability check), you can reroll the die and must use the new roll. You can use this trait once per long rest.

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