Half-Glaciarcs

Introduction

The Half-Glaciarcs are born from the complex and often painful interactions between Glaciarcs and other races. These individuals are frequently the product of assaults, and as such, their lives are often difficult and fraught with tension. Raised primarily within Glaciarc societies, they tend to occupy low ranks—usually as servants or laborers—shunned by their full-blooded kin for their mixed heritage. The few Half-Glaciarcs born outside these communities often face widespread disdain, racism, and social rejection, making their lives even harder.

Though their Glaciarc parentage carries a potent legacy of strength and resilience, Half-Glaciarcs are often perceived as inferior by their full-blooded counterparts. However, despite this oppression, they have an undeniable will to survive, driven by the same harsh teachings of Haestrom, the Frozen Lord, who reigns over their society. As a result, their hearts may lean toward any alignment, with some striving to prove their worth and others grappling with anger and defiance against the injustices they’ve faced.

Appearance

Physically, Half-Glaciarcs are often towering figures, though not quite as imposing as their full-blooded Glaciarc relatives. Males stand around 7 to 7.5 feet tall, while females tend to hover around 6 feet. Their skin retains the characteristic pale blue tint of their Glaciarc parentage, but it is often less pronounced and more human-like, varying from a faint frosted hue to a more neutral tone. Their eyes can range from icy blue and green to amber, piercing through the cold air with a chilling intensity.

Their hair, often a silver or pale white, tends to be less thick and luxurious than a Glaciarc’s, appearing more coarse. While they still bear the unmistakable sharp talons on their hands and feet, they are less pronounced than in full-blooded Glaciarcs, making them seem less intimidating. Like their Glaciarc relatives, they favor fur-lined garments, though their clothing is often of lesser quality, reflecting their lower societal rank. Their form is strong, resilient, and able to endure harsh environments, but their stature is not as exaggeratedly powerful as their ancestors.

Alignment and Religion

The alignment of Half-Glaciarcs varies greatly, shaped by the cruel treatment they often face. Many adopt a neutral or chaotic alignment, driven by a need to either escape their oppressive circumstances or seek vengeance against the system that rejected them. However, a few remain dedicated to the ideals of Haestrom, seeking to gain power, respect, or even redemption through acts of cruelty and survival, reflecting the more Lawful Evil side of their heritage.

Though they are often rejected from Glaciarc society, some Half-Glaciarcs still revere Haestrom, the Frozen Lord. The god’s cold, calculating tyranny resonates deeply with their experiences. These individuals may dedicate themselves to Haestrom’s ideals of strength and order or follow their own path, seeing his divine essence as something to overcome rather than worship. Still, most Half-Glaciarcs, especially those outside of Glaciarc-controlled lands, feel a great distance from their divine father, and may turn to other deities or philosophies for comfort and guidance.

Half-Glaciarc

Type Humanoid (Glaciarc and any parent race)

Ability Score Modifier +2 to any ability score

Size medium

Speed 30ft

Language Half-Glaciarcs begin play speaking Common and Glaciel. With a high Intelligence score, they can learn additional languages such as Orcish, Giant, Infernal, and Undercommon.

---

Ferocity: Once per day, while disabled or dying, the Glaciarc can continue fighting as if still at 0 hit points for 1 round.

Intimidating Presence: +2 bonus on Intimidate checks.

Survival Instincts: Half-Glaciarcs gain a +2 racial bonus to Survival checks made in icy or cold environments, reflecting their hardened upbringing in such climates.

Weapon Familiarity: Greatswords, greataxes, falcions and the unique crafted Glacial Greataxe.

Darkvision: 60ft

Alternate Traits

The Shunned

These Half-Glaciarcs were born outside of Glaciarc society, raised in the shadows and exiled from their cold homeland. As a result, they have adapted to a life of solitude and resourcefulness.

Replaces: Survival Instincts

Benefit: These Half Glaciarcs gain the ability called, Frostbite Aura. When threatened, a Half-Glaciarc exudes an aura of cold that chills nearby enemies. Any creature that starts its turn within 5 feet of a Half-Glaciarc takes 1d4 points of cold damage.

The Blessed of Haestrom

These Half-Glaciarcs have been recognized by Haestrom’s followers for their unusual potential and strength. Raised within a Glaciarc society or under their faith, they have earned their place as an exceptional individual, despite their mixed blood.

Replaces: Ferocity

Benefit: Half-Glaciarcs inherit their ancestors' ability to survive in frigid environments, gaining cold resistance 5. They also gain a +1 racial bonus to saving throws against cold-based effects.