Puffari

The Puffari are a small, desert-adapted species known for their speed, agility, and natural affinity for illusion magic. They are a common sight across the Osirion Wastes and the scattered margins of the Scorching Highlands, though they are encountered in large numbers.  

Physiology

  Puffari resemble small, round-bodied humanoids, standing no taller than three feet. Their bodies are covered in soft, golden-brown fur that provides insultation against the extremes of desert heat and cold. They possess large, expressive ears capable of subtle movements aiding in sound detection across open landscapes.   Their faces are characterized by wide, bright eyes that reflect an innate alertness and mischief. Puffari have nimble hands with elongated fingers, adapted for fine manipulation, sleight of hand, and rapid climbing. Their tails are short and sturdy, often decorated with small charms, colored cords, or river stones believed to bring luck.   Despite their seemingly fragile appearance, Puffari are capable of remarkable feats of speed and agility. They can leap significant distances, navigate narrow gaps with ease, and vanish into dust clouds or rocky cover with astonishing speed.  

Magical Adaptations

  Unique among many desert species, Puffari possess a natural connection to minor illusion magic. Without formal training, they are capable of producing simple mirages, shifting their appearance slightly, or creating visual disturbances to distract predators or pursuers. These abilities are instinctive and primarily defensive, allowing them to evade threats rather than confront them directly.  

Lifespan and Reproduction

  Puffari mature rapidly, reaching adulthood within a decade. Their natural lifespan rarely exceeds 60 years, with many succumbing earlier due to the hazards of desert life. Communal rearing of offspring is common among Puffari bands, with young often learning the arts of survival, agility, and illusion from multiple elders rather than a single parental figure.  

Senses and Mobility

  Exceptional hearing, sharp peripheral vision, and a light frame allow Puffari to detect danger early and avoid it through flight rather than combat. Their bodies are resilient to dehydration, and they can survive for extended periods on minimal water by extracting moisture from food and the air.

Genetic Ancestor(s)
Lifespan
50 - 60 years
Average Height
2 - 3 feet
Related Organizations

Creature Type: Humanoid (Therianborn)
Size: Small (about 2-3 feet tall)
Speed: 25 feet
  As a Puffari you have these special traits.
  Tumbleweed Dodge. When an enemy targets you with an attack, you can use your reaction to roll into a ball of fur and sand, imposing disadvantage on the attack roll. If the attack still misses, you can immediately move 10 feet without provoking opportunity attacks.
Sandstep Agility. You ignore movement penalties from difficult terrain, additionally, when you use the Dash action, you can move through enemy spaces without provoking opportunity attacks.
Sun-Blessed Fur. You have resistance to radiant damage. Additionally, you do not suffer exhaustion from extreme heat.
Trickster’s Tongue. Choose one of the following features to define your Puffari’s natural talents:
  • Silver-Tongued Liar. You have advantage on Deception checks
  • Magical Trickster. You know the Vicious Mockery cantrip