Lizardfolk

Lizardfolk are one of the ancient, reptilian humanoids that inhabit the lush, shadowy realms of Eldaivyr's world. Rooted deeply in their primal instincts, these beings harmonize uniquely with their sweltering, marshy environments. Originating from the humid depths of tropical climates, their culture and physical form have adapted splendidly to their surroundings, making them both intriguing and formidable in their native lands. While often misunderstood by outsiders, lizardfolk offer a complex society structured around survival, territorial integrity, and a deeply ingrained honor system connected to their tribal traditions and the natural world.
Personality: Lizardfolk exhibit a pragmatic outlook that often seems emotionless or distant to other races. Their decisions are based on survival rather than sentiment, viewing the world through a lens of utility and necessity. Despite this, they are not without social bonds; their communities are tightly knit, with a clear focus on collective well-being. Lizardfolk are direct communicators who value honesty, seeing deception as an unnecessary complication in social interactions. Their loyalty to their clan is paramount, often driving their actions and decisions. This loyalty, combined with a strong survival instinct, occasionally manifests as aggression when they perceive threats to their territory or community.
Physical Description: Lizardfolk stand upright, their bodies a blend of human and reptilian traits. They average around 6 to 7 feet in height, with rugged, scaly skin that provides natural armor. Their coloration varies widely, usually reflecting the environment of their home—ranging from deep greens in dense jungles to muted browns and greys in arid regions. Their eyes are typically slitted and can be vibrant hues of red, yellow, or green. Lizardfolk have long, muscular tails that aid in swimming, and their hands and feet are clawed, suitable for hunting and climbing. Lizardfolk are generally considered to be an adult at the age of 10, but may not be finished physically, physiologically, and psychologically developing until around the age of 20. The average expected life span of a Lizardfolk is about 65 years.
Relations: Lizardfolk maintain a complicated relationship with other races, often based on the territorial and resource needs of their tribes. They are wary of outsiders who enter their lands uninvited, though they respect those who engage with them honorably and with clear intentions. Relations between different lizardfolk tribes can vary from cooperative to hostile, depending on ancestral feuds and competition for resources. They occasionally ally with other swamp-dwelling races like bullywugs or troglodytes, especially against common enemies.
Alignment: Lizardfolk tend to lean towards neutral alignments, acting out of pragmatism rather than a moral compass guided by good or evil. Their actions are dictated more by necessity and the will to survive rather than by law or chaos. They uphold the laws and traditions of their tribe, which are geared towards the survival and efficiency of the group.
Lands: Lizardfolk are predominantly found in marshes, swamps, and other wetlands. They excel in these environments, using the waterways as natural defenses and sources of food. Their settlements are often built in harmony with the landscape, utilizing natural materials and camouflage to hide their presence from predators and enemies.
Religion: Lizardfolk spirituality is deeply entwined with nature and their ancestors. They worship primal spirits of the land, water, and sky, and have a particular reverence for the mighty beasts of their territories, which they often see as physical manifestations of their gods. Shamanistic practices are common, with tribal shamans serving as both spiritual leaders and healers.
Language: Lizardfolk speak Draconic, reflecting their ancient origins and connections to dragons. This language’s guttural tones and harsh consonants are well-suited to their vocal abilities.
Names: Lizardfolk names are typically short, guttural, and often include clicks or hissing sounds. They are chosen based on the characteristics of the individual or significant events at the time of birth.

• Male Names: Ssarth, Kethiss, Vraskek, Thissk, Razkai
• Female Names: Sszanya, Eshiss, Irthka, Ossra, Heszil
• Unisex Names: Vessk, Jhul, Krass, Thulk, Mersh
• Family Names: Marshstrider, Deepswimmer, Nightstalker, Reedshaper, Stoneclaw

Adventurers: Lizardfolk become adventurers out of necessity to protect their lands, seek resources, or fulfill missions inspired by their shamans or tribal leaders. They excel in roles such as scouts, Rangers, Druids, or Fighters, utilizing their natural abilities to navigate and survive in harsh environments. Their adventures are often motivated by the needs of their tribe or personal quests for power and status within their community.

Lifespan

65 years

Average Height

6-7 ft.

Average Weight

200-250 lbs.

Personal Characteristics

Personality Traits

• “I view every situation logically, often missing emotional cues.”
• “I’m always tinkering with something, trying to understand how things work.”
• “I remain perfectly still and silent when I need to hide or wait for prey.”

Ideals

• Balance: “The natural order dictates our lives; we thrive by maintaining balance with our environment.”
• Survival: “Adaptation and resilience are key to survival. I uphold these principles in every action.”
• Tradition: “I strictly adhere to the ancient customs and traditions of my people.”

Bonds

• “My tribe’s shaman saved my life; I am bound to protect him with my own.”
• “I carry a totem that represents my spiritual connection to the swamp lands of my ancestors.”
• “I am determined to protect the nesting grounds that have been in my family for generations.”

Flaws

• “I have a hard time understanding deceit, which makes me overly trusting.”
• “My curiosity about new technologies or creatures sometimes overrides my caution.”
• “I am inflexible when it comes to the laws of nature and tribal tradition.”