Erktuus (Erk-Toos)

Erktuus
Deep within the forest vales, in the hills and valleys and untamed places of the world, one might encounter the Erktuus, an ancient people with a long history of communion with the land and the creatures that inhabit it. Though they resemble humans in a general sense, they are in fact an offshoot branch, one that did not benefit from the uplifting of their human cousins by the ancient rulers of the world. Erktuus are generally larger, flat of face and broader of shoulder than their human cousins. They also tend to decorate their skin with paint, tattoos, piercings and other body modifications that add to their unusual appearance.
Those Who Hunt
Though some Erktuus have come to live in relative harmony with humans, they have a strong adherence to tradition and tend to live much as their ancestors did. As they have for thousands of years, most tribes rely on their skills as hunters and gatherers to survive in the wildernesses of the world. As such, they have become experts in tracking, trapping, and hunting their prey. Each Erktuus child learns these skills, as anyone not able to provide for themselves and the tribe will find themselves left to die alone and exiled from their people. Some clans also form small settlements where they grow local crops for sustenance and trade.
Ancient Traditions
After each successful hunt and before consuming their prey, the Erktuus will give thanks to the spirit of that which they consume through song and dance. These traditions have been passed down from generation to generation and are different from tribe to tribe. Much the same with the markings they place upon their bodies, the meanings behind these symbols show the long history of the Erktuus people, one that has changed little in the last centuries, despite the vast changes going on around them.
One With the Wilds
The wilds of the world are a dangerous place, filled with all manner of deadly beasts, poisonous plants, and fearsome monsters. It is no wonder that the Erktuus have adapted to this environment by becoming as close to the land as possible. Some have such a close connection to the land that they almost become part of it, in tune with the magic that pervades the natural world, and harness it for the benefit of their tribes. These shamans are given places of great honor among their people and are often given positions of leadership in their tribes.
Clans of the Spirit Animals
The Erktuus worship and respect the spirits of the wild, but each tribe has a guardian spirit that they look to with particular veneration. Though these beings may not have the power of the Greater Spirits, they are able to grant their blessings to the tribes that worship them, imparting them with a gift to help them survive and thrive dangerous lands they inhabit.
The Five Clan Confederation
In the Wild Coast, there are dozens of different Erktuus clans and tribes inhabiting the vast wildernesses. Though most Erktuus coexist in relative peace with the various other inhabitants of the Wild Coast, conflict over resources or honor is not uncommon. In recent times one clan, the Stoneskin Lion Clan, an antagonistic and malicious tribe has come to dominate many parts of the region. A confederation of five other clans, led by the respected Towering Elk Clan, have banded together to protect their territory and together built a large settlement and meeting place known as Ekatkat. Though not generally a warlike people, there are many skilled Erktuus hunters and warriors, and when they form warbands they can often prove a match for even the most organized militaries of the south.
Erktuus Names
Male. Giddek, Hlulek, Yarmut, Kell, Vokta, Tamtun, Ookta, Drogna, Paktuk Female. Chessu, Jannyi, Geentu, Uulami, Taratu, Keenyu, Oktu, Dinyi.
Erktuus Traits

• Favoured Classes. Ranger and Druid
• Ability Score Increase. Your Constitution increases by 2, and your Wisdom increases by 1.
• Age. Erktuus typically reach maturity in their middle teens, and can live up to around 80 years.
• Alignment. Erktuus generally tend towards chaotic and neutral alignments.
• Size. Erktuus will usually grow to around 6 feet tall, with men being slightly taller than women in general.
• Speed. Your base speed is 30 feet.
• Languages. You speak Erktuus, which has no written language, and have some ability in speaking Tradetongue.
• Keen Eyesight. You are able to see in the dark up to 30 feet.
• Skilled Trackers. You gain proficiency in the Survival Skill, and you gain advantage on survival checks in wilderness settings.
• Natural Hunters. You gain proficiency with longbows and shortbows, and can spend one hour and 5gp worth of materials to create a Hunting Trap once per short rest.
• Clan Spirit. When you create your character, choose one of the following Clan Spirits. You gain the bonus from that spirit.
• Towering Elk. Your clan worships the regal and majestic Towering Elk. Choose one of the following skills; Persuasion or Intimidation. You gain advantage when using that skill.
• Saberclaw Bear. Your clan worships the fierce and territorial Saberclaw Bear. You can make Attacks of Opportunity when creatures enter your range as well as leave it.
• Shadowy Owl. Your clan worships the wise and subtle Shadowy Owl. You gain the ability to Hide as a Bonus Action in Dim or Dark environments.
• Springpaw Fox. Your clan worships the cunning and quick Springpaw Fox. Your base speed increases by 5 feet, and you jump can jump twice the normal height and distance.
• Thickhide Boar. Your clan worships the tough and hardy Thickhide Boar. When healing with Hit Dice on a short rest, you can reroll 1's and 2's.