Kreth
Kreth are semiaquatic anthropoid reptilians from the hot, humid planet of Heshkith. Lithe and wiry tetrapods, kreth have twin tails and an array of spine-supported membranous fins to increase their hydrodynamicity. With a mouth full of fangs and chromatophores in their scaly skin, kreth are a fearsome species of ambush predators.
Biology
Anatomy & Physiology
Kreth are vertical bipedal tetrapods, with a set of manipulatory limbs on the sides of the upper torso and a pair of hindlimbs used for locomotion. The lower section of the spine transitions into a long tail with a crescent-shaped fin at the tip, used for balance while on the ground and swimming in water. Kreth have an internal skeleton composed of calcium phosphate and collagen. Their vascular oxygen carrier is hemochromin, a chromium-based protein that turns dark green when oxidized. Kreth are mostly covered by a coat of transparent keratinous scales, and in the skin beneath these is a complex lattice of muscular pores filled with tiny crystals. By flexing these pores in different ways, the crystals reflect different wavelengths of light, allowing kreth to change their apparent coloration with such a high degree of fidelity that they can become almost invisible.Perception & Sensory Capabilities
Visual
Kreth visual sense is strong, and well-adapted to low-light vision. They see with two pairs of slit-pupil focal eyes (one in the upper cranium and one in the lower), which are able to pick up motion, spatial orientation, definite shape, and a vast spectrum of color ranging from infrared into ultraviolet.Tactile
The kreth tactile sense is fairly strong. Their entire epidermis is sensitive to tactile input, though the effect is most intense in the hands, feet, tail, and especially their facial barbels.Auditory
The kreth auditory sense is moderately acute, hearing with a pair of internal ears set in the skull just behind the upper eyes. These ears are sensitive to the standard hearing range and very near infrasound.Olfactory
Kreth have a very keen olfactory sense, not only because their head has a pair of spiracles that lead to a respiratory-derived olfactory chamber, but also thanks to the chemosensory barbels that line the bottom of their lower jaw and wrists.Ecology
Geographic Origin & Distribution
The kreth are relatively recent starfarers, but in the last several centuries their interstellar empire has expanded considerably. They are widespread within and around the borders of the Siltharesh Siruvekith in the Chamaeleon Clouds and Scorpius Main. Despite this, however, kreth are not quite as common as humans or Klex.Habitat & Survival Factors
The optimal survival range in a variety of factors for an unequipped kreth is rather wide to begin with, though they much prefer warmer and humid climates. Given the technology and/or resources to build said technology, they can live comfortably almost anywhere in the cosmos.Civilization & Culture
Aggressive, imperious, and devout, the Heshkithet have historically been the instigators of several interstellar-scale conflicts. Their Imperium is supported by a vast and complex ecclesiastic hierarchy, governed by a Holy Potentate who is seen as the speaker of their pantheon’s will. The people of Heshkith are frightfully capable and inventive warriors, leveraging their cohesive approach to community in combat and strengthened by their religious beliefs.Major Organizations
Major Language Groups & Dialects
SheshvothaCulture & Heritage
Common Traditions
Common Taboos
Scientific Name
Lacertanguilanthropus sapiens (Heskithigenids)
Average Height
1.7 m
Average Weight
47 kg
Tolerances
Interspecies Relations
Hyperlanes Info
Physical Traits
Chameleonic
You are able to change the color and pattern of your scales. For the most part this is unconscious and linked to your emotional state, but passing a WIS saving throw of DC 12 will allow you to consciously override your emotions to camouflage yourself.Semiaquatic
You can hold your breath for up to half an hour. You have a swimming speed of 30 feet and gain advantage on swimming-related Athletics rolls.Natural Weapons
Your claws, teeth, and spines act as natural weapons, adding 1d6 piercing and slashing damage to your unarmed attacks.Natural Armor
You have tough, scaly skin. When you aren't wearing armor, your AC is 13 + your DEX modifier. You can use your natural armor to determine your AC if the armor you wear would leave you with a lower AC. A shield's benefits apply as normal while you use your natural armor.Enhanced Vision
You have proficiency in the Perception skill, and you have advantage on Perception rolls as long as you are not blinded. You can see in dim light within 60 feet of you as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. You cannot discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.Cultural Traits
Suggested culture: HeshkithetCHA increases by 1
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