Minotaurs

'You'd expect the bull-men to be found in plains, forests maybe, but no, they're sailors. About the finest damn sailors Ratha's ever seen, just behind the sea elves. They navigate the complex straits of the Jeweled Archipelao like it's second nature to them, and half of the trade there is conducted by their ships. Doesn't mean they're entirely passive, don't get me wrong - a seven-foot bull-man can definitely hold his own in a fight.' - Nhamum Zilon, sailor

Often described as half man, half bull, minotaurs are hulking individuals, with thick fur, cloven hooves for feet, and heads like those of bulls, with tall, curving horns. They live in largely migratory tribes, typically sailing between the islands of the jeweled archipelago and nearby coastlines. They are sometimes stereotyped as brutish, and their large figure can make them clumsy at times, but they are as intelligent and varied as any other race. They are a curious species, with a long history of trading literature and cultural artifacts between the isles they visit, although many of them do have a tendency to horde their curious treasures. That is not to say that they cannot be dangerous - they are physically strong, and they hooves and horns give them plenty of natural weaponry.

Basic Information

Ecology and Habitats

Minotaurs are native to the relatively warm isles of the Jeweled Archipelago, but they are able to live in most habitats. Their seafaring tradition means that they are usually found close to the coast.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Minotaurs are omnivorous, mostly preferring fruit and vegetable matter, supplemented by what can be caught and foraged on the ocean. Their hardy digestive system also allows them to eat more hardy plant matter, such as grass.

Biological Cycle

Minotaurs age at a similar rate to humans, entering adulthood in their late teens, and breed at a similar rate, though they do live for a while longer.

Additional Information

Facial characteristics

Minotaurs have bull-like faces, with long, large snouts and eyes on the sides of their head. They also have very prominent horns, typically smaller but still present for females.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

Minotaurs are given a name in their native language at birth, sometimes followed by a surname based on deeds or nicknames.

Major Language Groups and Dialects

Minotaurs speak their native language, Minotaur, which is difficult for other races to speak, and typically also speak Common.

Culture and Cultural Heritage

Minotaur culture is largely built around knowledge and skill. The sailors and navigators of their tribes are considered some of the highest ranking members, and they will often have an entire tent dedicated to their carefully-curated library. Verbal debates are a common way of settling conflicts.

Interspecies Relations and Assumptions

Minotaurs are largely accepted among the traders of the Jeweled Archipelago, though they may be regarded with some suspicion in other parts of the world.

Lifespan

150 years

Average Height

8ft

Average Weight

Heavy, for their size, due to their powerful build

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Minotaur fur comes in a number of natural colours, from blacks and browns, to whites and blondes.