Tengu

"A calm wind whispers truths that a storm cannot."

— Ancient Tengu Proverb

The Tengu are an ancient and noble race of avian humanoids who inhabit the towering, mist-shrouded mountains of Khitang. Known for their grace, discipline, and spiritual connection to the elemental forces they revere, the Tengu are a people steeped in tradition, honor, and a deep respect for the natural world. Their civilization, shaped by centuries of history, is built upon the principles of the Four Winds, which guide every aspect of their lives.

Physicality

Tengu are tall, slender beings, typically standing around 5 and a half feet in height with a slight hunch. Their avian features are unmistakable—elongated and tusked beaks, sharp talons, and vibrant plumage that varies widely in color and texture, reflecting the diverse avian species of Khitang. Each Tengu’s feathers are unique, with intricate patterns and a rich array of colors that serve as a testament to their lineage and personal achievements. The vibrant hues of their plumage are not merely for display; they carry deep cultural significance, often symbolizing the virtues or the particular Wind a Tengu family reveres.
While males tend to display brighter and more varied plumage, often signifying their readiness for leadership and combat, females typically exhibit larger statures with plainer, more subdued colors. This distinction reflects the traditional roles within Tengu society, where males assume positions of authority and engage in warfare, while females focus on nurturing the young, preserving cultural practices, and managing the household. Despite this division, both genders are respected for their contributions to Tengu society, each playing a vital role in maintaining the balance and harmony of their communities.
Though Tengu were once capable of flight, their wings have long since evolved into powerful arms, capable of wielding weapons with extraordinary dexterity and strength. Their legs, however, retain the agility and strength needed to navigate the steep, rocky terrain of their homeland, enabling them to move with a speed and grace unmatched by most other races. Their sharp talons, once used for gripping branches during flight, are now formidable weapons in their own right, capable of slicing through armor and flesh with ease.

Culture and Society

Tengu society is organized into four great houses, each aligned with one of the Four Winds: North, South, East, and West. These winds are more than mere directional forces; they are seen as the spiritual guardians of the Tengu, embodying the core virtues that shape their civilization.

• North Wind. Symbolizing ambition and leadership, the North Wind guides those who seek to rise to positions of power and influence. Tengu aligned with this Wind are often driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence, constantly striving to improve themselves and their communities. They are the leaders and visionaries of Tengu society, always looking to the future and seeking ways to elevate their people.
• South Wind. Representing tranquility and peace, the South Wind inspires introspection and harmony within the community. Those who follow the South Wind are often philosophers, healers, and spiritual leaders, dedicated to maintaining the inner peace of their people. They believe that true strength comes from within and that only by achieving personal harmony can one contribute to the greater good of the society.
• East Wind. Embodying strength and resilience, the East Wind fosters physical and mental fortitude in the face of adversity. Tengu aligned with this Wind are the warriors and protectors of their people, trained from a young age in the art of combat and survival. They are taught to endure hardships with stoicism and to face challenges with unwavering resolve.
• West Wind. The West Wind is the guardian of tradition and heritage, ensuring that the customs and wisdom of the Tengu are preserved across generations. Those who follow this Wind are the keepers of history, culture, and lore, dedicated to preserving the ancient ways and passing them on to future generations. They believe that the past holds the key to the future and that only by honoring their ancestors can the Tengu hope to thrive in the present.

Each of these houses is a sprawling entity, encompassing multiple families, settlements, and territories within the mountainous landscapes of Khitang. These houses are governed by a Daimyo, a leader who either inherits their position or earns it through exceptional skill, wisdom, or feats of valor. The Daimyo is supported by a council of elders, skilled warriors, and trusted advisors who help manage the affairs of the house, from military strategy to spiritual guidance.
At the top of Tengu society is the Shogun, the supreme ruler who oversees and coordinates the actions of all the Daimyos, ensuring unity and cooperation among the various houses. The Shogun is not a hereditary position but is instead earned through the Trial of the Four Winds, a rigorous process that tests the candidate’s combat abilities, strategic thinking, and leadership qualities. This trial is a grueling series of challenges, often fought to the death, where the prospective Shogun must prove their worthiness to lead the Tengu people.

Family Life and Gender Roles

Family life in Tengu society is communal, with multiple generations often living together under one roof. This close-knit structure fosters a strong sense of kinship and duty, with elders playing a crucial role in passing down wisdom and traditions to the younger generations. The Tengu place a high value on family loyalty and honor, believing that the strength of the house lies in the unity of its members.
Gender roles in Tengu society are deeply entrenched and strictly enforced. Males are traditionally responsible for leadership, combat, and governance, while females focus on nurturing the

young, preserving cultural traditions, and managing the household. From a young age, Tengu males are groomed to assume roles in leadership and warfare, learning the art of combat, strategy, and diplomacy. Females, while not typically involved in combat, are highly respected for their role in maintaining the spiritual and cultural fabric of Tengu society. They are the keepers of history and tradition, ensuring that the teachings of the ancestors are preserved and passed down through the generations.
Marriages in Tengu society are often arranged within the house, with the goal of strengthening alliances and ensuring the continuity of the family line. These unions are celebrated with grand ceremonies that involve the entire community, marking not just the union of two individuals but the joining of two families. After marriage, couples typically live with the husband’s family, contributing to the communal household and raising their children with the help of extended family members.
Despite the rigid gender roles, there are rare instances where females defy these norms, either through exceptional circumstances or by secretly training in the martial arts. These individuals face significant cultural pressures and risks, as exposure could lead to ostracization or severe consequences within Tengu society.

Spirituality and the Four Winds

Spirituality is at the heart of Tengu culture, deeply intertwined with their reverence for the Four Winds, which they believe are elemental forces that guide and protect them. Each Wind embodies different virtues essential to Tengu life, and these virtues are reflected in every aspect of their culture, from their martial practices to their daily rituals.
The Tengu believe that these winds not only influence their daily lives but also shape their destinies. The First Glide, a coming-of-age ceremony, is one of the most significant rituals in Tengu society. During this ceremony, young Tengu leap from the peaks of their settlements, trusting in the winds to guide their glide. The Wind that aids their flight is believed to determine their future path within society, whether as a leader, a sage, a warrior, or a keeper of traditions. This ceremony is not just a physical test but a spiritual one, where the young Tengu must prove their worthiness to the Winds and accept the destiny they are given.
Rituals and Festivals. The Tengu observe numerous rituals and festivals that honor the Four Winds and the spirits of their ancestors. These events are deeply spiritual and often involve elaborate ceremonies, dances, and offerings. The most important of these is the Festival of the Four Winds, held annually to celebrate the balance and harmony of the elemental forces that protect the Tengu. During this festival, the Tengu gather in their mountain settlements to perform intricate dances that mimic the movements of the winds, offer prayers to their ancestors, and reaffirm their commitment to the virtues of the Four Winds.

Martial Arts and Weaponry

Martial prowess is central to Tengu culture, with combat seen as both a physical and spiritual practice. For the Tengu, martial combat is not merely about defeating an opponent but about achieving harmony between the body, mind, and spirit. Their combat philosophy emphasizes grace, precision, and the seamless integration of physical techniques with spiritual awareness.

Swordsmanship. Tengu swordsmiths are legendary, crafting blades that are as light as the wind and as sharp as a storm. These weapons are not only tools of war but also symbols of the Tengu's spiritual connection to the Four Winds. The most skilled warriors wield these blades with a grace that is said to be guided by the winds themselves. Tengu swords are forged through ancient methods that blend metallurgy with spiritual rituals, imbuing them with elemental essence. These swords are highly prized and are often passed down through generations as heirlooms, carrying the legacy of their wielders.
Combat Techniques. Tengu warriors are known for their agility, precision, and fluidity in combat. Their fighting style is characterized by swift, acrobatic movements that mirror the ever-changing nature of the winds they revere. They are trained to move with the wind, using it to enhance their strikes, evade attacks, and outmaneuver their opponents. This style of combat is deeply rooted in their spiritual beliefs, with each movement and technique reflecting the virtues of the Four Winds.
Tengu Monks. Some Tengu devote their lives to mastering both combat and spirituality, becoming monks who integrate breathing techniques and meditation into their martial arts. These monks believe that by controlling their breath, they can align their bodies with the elemental forces of Khitang, enhancing their physical abilities and mental clarity. Through rigorous training and meditation, they learn to harness the power of the Winds, using it to strengthen their bodies, sharpen their minds, and deepen their spiritual connection.

Relations with Other Races

The Tengu's relationships with other races in Khitang are complex and varied, shaped by history, alliances, and enmities. While they are a proud and independent people, the Tengu recognize the importance of alliances in the face of common threats.
Orcs. The Tengu share a deep and enduring bond with the Orcs, forged in the aftermath of the great battle against the Centaur Khanate and its warlord ruler, Ma-Baojin-Khan. This alliance, rooted in mutual respect and the shared defense of Khitang, has endured through the ages, with both races honoring the oaths of loyalty they made to one another. The Orcs and Tengu often fight side by side against common enemies, their combined strength and martial prowess forming a formidable force.
Oni. The Tengu harbor deep animosity toward the Oni, born from the betrayal and subjugation they suffered at their hands. When the Oni allied with Fu-Shun and orchestrated a ruthless purge, many Tengu were driven from their ancestral lands in the Phang Mountains. This harrowing history has fueled a longstanding desire for vengeance, with the Oni considered the Tengu's most bitter enemies. The Tengu have never forgiven the Oni for their treachery and remain ever vigilant against their return.
Centaurs: The Tengu’s relationship with the Centaurs is marked by territorial disputes and historical conflicts. Both races share a mutual respect for martial prowess, but their interactions are often tense and fraught with rivalry and direct conflict. The Centaurs, known for their strength and speed, have clashed with the Tengu in battles over territory and resources, particularly in the Rai-Zhu plains and mountains. Despite these conflicts, there is a grudging respect between the two races, with each recognizing the other's martial skill and tenacity.

Yunzu-Tengu Relations

The relationship between the Yunzu and the Tengu is marked by deep cultural differences and mutual distrust. While both races inhabit the high, remote regions of Khitang and share a reverence for nature, their philosophies and lifestyles are starkly opposed, leading to ongoing tensions.
The Yunzu’s playful and unpredictable nature, with their belief in balancing spirituality with mischief, clashes with the Tengu's disciplined and rigid adherence to tradition. The Tengu view the Yunzu as chaotic and unruly, while the Yunzu see the Tengu as overly rigid and lacking in joy.
Historically, skirmishes between the two races have been frequent, particularly in border regions. The Tengu's martial prowess and strict honor code contrast sharply with the Yunzu's cunning and agility, reinforcing stereotypes on both sides. During ancient wars, the Tengu often allied with the disciplined Orcs, further distancing themselves from the Yunzu’s more fluid and opportunistic alliances.
The differences extend into family structures and societal roles. Yunzu society is egalitarian, with leadership based on cunning and wisdom, while the Tengu follow strict patriarchal hierarchies and gender roles. These contrasting views on honor and duty—fluid and adaptive for the Yunzu, rigid and traditional for the Tengu—further deepen the divide between the two races.
Despite these differences, the Yunzu and Tengu have occasionally found common cause against mutual threats, such as the Oni or Centaurs. However, these alliances are uneasy, with both sides remaining wary of each other’s motives and methods.
The future of Yunzu-Tengu relations is uncertain. While there is potential for cooperation, deep-seated cultural differences make true harmony unlikely. For now, the two races continue to coexist with a mixture of rivalry, respect, and reluctant cooperation.

Art, Music, and Literature

Tengu culture is rich in art, music, and literature, all of which reflect their deep spiritual beliefs and their connection to the Four Winds. Their artistic expressions are often imbued with symbolism, with each color, shape, and pattern representing different aspects of their spiritual and cultural identity.
Art. Tengu art is characterized by its intricate designs and vibrant colors, often depicting scenes from nature, the Four Winds, and the history of their people. Their artwork is highly symbolic, with each piece telling a story or conveying a message. Tengu artisans are skilled in various forms of art, including painting, sculpture, and weaving. Their tapestries and murals adorn the walls of their mountain homes, serving as reminders of their heritage and the virtues they strive to uphold.
Music. Music plays a central role in Tengu culture, with songs and melodies passed down through generations. Their music is often inspired by the sounds of the winds and the natural world, with instruments crafted to mimic the calls of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the howling of storms. The Tengu believe that music has the power to connect them with the spiritual realm, and they use it in their rituals and ceremonies to honor the Four Winds and their ancestors. The most revered musicians are those who can capture the essence of the winds in their melodies, creating a spiritual experience for all who listen.
Literature. Tengu literature is a rich tapestry of myths, legends, and historical accounts, often focusing on the deeds of great warriors, the wisdom of the ancestors, and the teachings of the Four Winds. Their written works are highly valued, with many texts preserved in sacred libraries or passed down orally through generations. The Tengu take great pride in their literary heritage, believing that the written word is a powerful tool for preserving knowledge, wisdom, and cultural identity.

Tengu Names

In Tengu culture, names are more than mere labels; they are vessels of heritage, spirituality, and individual identity. Tengu names are often bestowed with great care and consideration, reflecting the profound connection between the individual and the natural world. Each name carries layers of meaning, drawing inspiration from the elements, ancestral lineage, and the spiritual essence of the Four Winds.
For example, a Tengu named "Kazuki" might inherit a name that signifies harmony ("kazu") and the wind ("ki"), symbolizing their alignment with the tranquil balance of nature's forces. Tengu names often echo the martial virtues and traditions that define their society. Prefixes or suffixes denoting familial lineage or achievements might be incorporated into names, showcasing the individual's connection to their ancestry and their contributions to Tengu society.
Male Names: Haruki (shining sun), Renjiro (lotus son), Daichi (great earth), Kaito (ocean warrior), Hayato (falcon person), Isamu (brave and courageous), Sora (sky), Hiroto (abundant person), Raiden (thunder and lightning), Yuto (gentle as the sea)
Female Names: Aika (love song), Kohana (little flower), Meiyo (honor), Akari (light), Mizuki (beautiful moon), Hanae (blossom blessing), Nariko (gentle child), Kiyomi (pure beauty), Amaya (night rain), Natsumi (summer beauty)
Clan Names: Kazanushi (Firekeeper), Mizukaze (Waterwind), Tsuchiyama (Earthmountain), Hayasora (Swiftsky), Kogarashi (Autumnwind), Takahashi (Highbridge), Kaminariya (Thunderhome), Akanami (Redwave), Yurakumo (Wanderingcloud), Shiratani (Whitevalley)

Tengu Traits

Tengu Traits

As a tengu, you have the following properties.
Ability Score Increase. Increase one ability score by 2, and increase a different one by 1, or increase three different scores by 1.
Age. Tengu mature at around 16 years of age, and live up to 60 years.
Alignment. Most Tengu revere tradition, and as such tend towards lawful alignments.
Size. Tengu stand between 5 to 5 and a half feet tall, standing slightly shorter than humans while hunched. Your size is Medium.
Speed. Your walking speed is 30 feet.
Glide. While Tengu are flightless, they have hollow bones and can use their vestigial wings to glide. When you fall at least 20 feet above the ground, you can use your reaction to extend your feathered arms to glide horizontally a number of feet equal to your walking speed, and you take 0 damage from the fall. You determine the direction of the glide.
Keen Sight. Thanks to your avian eyes, you have advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that involve sight.
Nimble Dash. As a tengu, your feathers enable you to be incredibly agile and aerodynamic when moving. When you move on your turn in combat, you can move an additional number of feet equal to half your walking speed until the start of your next turn. You can do this a number of times equal to your proficiency modifier. Once you have expended all uses of this trait, you can't use it again until you have finished a long rest.
Talons. You have talons that you can use to make unarmed strikes. When you hit with it, the strike deals 1d6 + your Strength modifier slashing damage, instead of the bludgeoning damage normal for an unarmed strike.
Tengu Martial Training. You have proficiency in a martial weapon of your choice.
Languages. You can speak, read, and write Trade-tongue and Orcish. You also speak Tengish, a language that poses significant difficulty for other species due to its composition primarily consisting of low squawks and chirrups reminiscent of those made by large birds of prey.

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Lifespan

50-60

Average Height

5' 5"

Average Weight

100 lb.

Geographic Distribution

• Khitang

Related Organizations

• Empire of the Celestial Dragon

Proverbs

Tengu culture is rich with proverbs and sayings that reflect their values, beliefs, and way of life. These proverbs are often passed down through generations, offering guidance and wisdom to young Tengu as they navigate the challenges of life.

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"A blade that moves with the wind never dulls."

This proverb emphasizes the Tengu belief in adaptability and fluidity in both combat and life. It suggests that those who learn to move in harmony with the natural forces around them will remain strong and sharp.

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"The wind may change, but the mountain stands firm."

This speaks to the Tengu's deep respect for tradition and the importance of remaining steadfast in one's principles, even as the world around them changes.

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"He who walks against the wind tires quickly."

A reminder of the value of understanding and working with natural forces rather than against them, whether in physical endeavors or in the pursuit of goals.

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"The North Wind teaches ambition; the West Wind, wisdom."

This proverb reflects the Tengu's belief in the Four Winds and the different lessons they impart. It serves as a reminder that ambition must be tempered with wisdom.

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"When the winds gather, even the mightiest trees must bow."

A warning that unity and collective strength can overcome even the strongest individual, stressing the importance of community and cooperation.

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"A calm wind whispers truths that a storm cannot."

This proverb highlights the Tengu's appreciation for introspection and the belief that clarity and understanding often come in moments of peace rather than chaos.

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"Feathers of different colors still belong to the same bird."

An expression of unity in diversity, reminding the Tengu that despite their differences, they are all part of the same race and share the same destiny.

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"The wind that guides the falcon is the same that scatters the leaves."

This proverb speaks to the duality of nature and the forces that guide life, suggesting that the same forces can have different effects depending on one's perspective or situation.

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"The wind does not ask where it is needed; it simply goes."

A lesson in purpose and action, implying that one should act with intention and trust in the path laid out by the winds, without overthinking or hesitation.

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"Even the lightest breeze can carry a message far."

A reflection on the power of words, communication, and influence, emphasizing that even small actions or messages can have a significant impact if carried by the right means.

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