Kenku
Although they evolved from avians, Kenkus had no wings or capacity for flight. Instead, they had arms in place of wings and bird-like talons for hands and feet. They retained bird-like features, however, with black and beady eyes and a long dark-hued beak. Head and torso were covered with soft feathers, a dark russet-brown color, while their scrawny limbs were bare and scaled like a bird's. They most resembled ravens.
Kenkus tended to be slightly smaller than the average human, standing at around 5 feet. Because they had partially hollow bones, they were lighter than most creatures their height, averaging only 75 pounds. They were therefore not as strong, but they were more agile and dexterous.
They typically wore nondescript brown robes, under which they concealed tools and weaponry.
Kenkus were by habit secretive, self-seeking, and cunning creatures. They tended to adopt neutral or unaligned views and behaviors; the majority were evil, but true neutral and good Kenkus could be found among them. They were opportunistic and unscrupulous, not stopping at illegal or immoral acts.
Although they were selfish, Kenkus actually operated surprisingly well together and with allies. A kenku was most effective when aided or aiding an ally.
Kenkus could be vicious in a fight but were cowardly by nature. They would usually flee the moment a battle turned in their opponent's favor, and even surrender if it meant staying alive.
Kenkus often used saps, short swords, or shortbows in combat, others wielded clubs, daggers, slings, and even spiked chains. But even when disarmed, they would also slash opponents with their claws. Kenkus typically wore leather armor, though a warrior might choose a chain shirt or buckler.
A Kenku could accurately mimic all kinds of noises, voices, and accents. A gifted Kenku mimic could fool a foe into believing they had heard a voice they were well familiar with.
Kenkus lived in close-knit gangs, family groups, or clans, commonly called "flocks". These flocks were distrusting of outsiders, even of other Kenkus. They established aeries or nests, usually hidden and often near large cities or at least in civilized lands. Kenkus had their own language, but typically spoke Common. The area of which most Kenkus live on Terra Firma is in Terra Terrarium, far away from cities. A large settlement can be found at the Waveless Tributary.
After hatching from their eggs, Kenkus remained in their home-nests with their families. Once they reached adulthood at age nine, they left their nests forever. Unwilling to travel alone, most soon banded together with other young adult Kenkus of similar habits for mutual protection and profit, forming new flocks. A few made their way on their own or formed partnerships with other creatures who needed their services.
These Kenku gangs made their homes in the cities, where they loitered in dark alleys or roamed the streets together. Thanks to their skills and habits and lack of scruples, they flourished in the criminal underbelly, hatching schemes to get rich and strong. They could operate all kinds of illicit enterprises, but preferred confidence tricks and scheming. Violence was rarely their first choice. They hoarded their stolen, shiny gold.
Kenkus, in gangs or alone, were usually hired as thieves or thugs, even as assassins and spies.
Some Kenkus served the demon lord Tiamat, who promised them flight.
Kenkus evolved originally from avians, though they lost their wings and with it their ability to fly.
Basic Information
Anatomy
Although they evolved from avians, Kenkus had no wings or capacity for flight. Instead, they had arms in place of wings and bird-like talons for hands and feet. They retained bird-like features, however, with black and beady eyes and a long dark-hued beak. Head and torso were covered with soft feathers, a dark russet-brown color, while their scrawny limbs were bare and scaled like a bird's. They most resembled ravens.
Biological Traits
Feathers, imposing, decent weight and size.
Genetics and Reproduction
It is not documented of the exact reproduction methods, but it is theorized to be like any other bird.
Growth Rate & Stages
Kenku reach maturity at about 12 years old, and can live up to 60 years old.
Ecology and Habitats
They tend to live away from civilization, staying close with other of the same species. One large Kenku establishment is the Waveless Tributary in Terra Terrarium.
Dietary Needs and Habits
It is assumed that Kenku are omnivores, but prefer meat.
Additional Information
Social Structure
The social structure is that Kenku don't particularly like other races, mainly focusing on their own kind, grouping together for protection and safety.
Facial characteristics
Beak, that's the main facial feature that is most noticeable.
Geographic Origin and Distribution
The Kenku often live exclusively in Terra Terrarium, but they have been seen traveling the world.
Average Intelligence
Kenku are often of good intelligence, but not overly intelligent. They are excellent fighters and thievery/forgery, but they don't have too much book smarts.
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
They are able to remarkably mimic the words and noises of anyone and anything they hear.
Civilization and Culture
Naming Traditions
Unknown
Major Organizations
They tend to live alone, in groups of Kenkus in Terra Terrarium.
Beauty Ideals
Unknown
Gender Ideals
Unknown
Relationship Ideals
Unknown
Average Technological Level
They are at the metal age, having weapons and armor, but haven't quite reached the highest levels of technology in this world.
Major Language Groups and Dialects
Common and Mimicry
Common Etiquette Rules
Unknown
Common Dress Code
Unknown
Culture and Cultural Heritage
Unknown
Common Customs, Traditions and Rituals
Unknown
Common Taboos
Unknown. They are very weary about trusting any other species other than their own.
History
It is said that long ago, in the beginning of the Era of Man, Tiamat struck a deal with the Kenku tribe, getting the strongest males to become her legion. Tiamat is a demon lord that is a master of persuasion. She promised the Kenku with flight, and are presumed to get them if they follow her, but it turns out this is all a farse. But no Kenku actually has received flight from Tiamat, and has never lived long enough as her warrior to question her.
Historical Figures
Unknown. The only real figure that is documented having dealings with the Kenku is the demon lord, Tiamat.
Common Myths and Legends
Unknown
Interspecies Relations and Assumptions
Unknown. Hasn't been documented about Kenku and Human relations.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Genetic Descendants
Scientific Name
Avia Kenkusius
Lifespan
60 Years
Average Height
5 Feet
Average Weight
90 to 120 lbs
Average Physique
Slim muscular creatures.
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
There can be lots of different kinds of different colors and markings. Sometimes being almost tribal.
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