Troglodyte
Troglodytes are a race of intelligent humanoid beings that are known to inhabit the far eastern regions of the supercontinent of Thrae, specifically the region known as Irea. They are a magical and very mysterious race of beings that are known only in the most learned circles of western societies, and then only through rumor and myth.
Very little is known about these beings. Said to be short, stoutly built and amazingly strong, they are rumored to live in caves and to know only the use of stone and wood tools and weapons. They wear skins of animals as clothing because they do not weave cloth or fabric. They do not farm the land, but exist by hunting and fishing their meat and collecting fruits, nuts and berries as the seasons progress.
The term Troglodyte is a Gnomish word that means "cave dweller". The very few sources available to scholars state that these creatures refer to themselves as muntu, or "human beings" in their own tongue.
Basic Information
Anatomy
Short of stature with wide shoulders, thick chests and strong, muscular arms and legs. Their faces are broad and flat, with low foreheads and wide noses. Their skin is deeply tanned and often described as rough and weathered. Eyes are a light brown or rich hazel and their hair is typically brown, thick and tangled.
Genetics and Reproduction
As with all Humanoids, Troglodytes reproduce sexually with a gestation period nearly identical to Humans.
Additional Information
Geographic Origin and Distribution
The exact extent of the population of Troglodytes is unknown, but the consensus among scholars is that the greatest known population live near the eastern-most extent of the continent of Thrae.
Civilization and Culture
Beauty Ideals
Troglodytes are universally described as "painted" which is commonly translated as meaning tattooed but could also mean that they utilize paints, pigments and dyes to ornament their faces and bodies. Regardless of the permanence of the decorations, these designs seem to be associated with families or tribes as well as denoting status within the communities. Hair is grown long and braided or plaited with beads of stone and bone or waxed with scented fats and oils.
Average Technological Level
All known sources on the Troglodyte culture describe them as quite primitive due to their dependence on stone, wood and bone for tool and weapon construction and their propensity for living in natural caves rather than purpose-built structures. This is considered by some as short sighted. Some evidence exists for obsidian blades that are sharper than any known steel knives currently manufactured anywhere in the world. They have perfected the design and use of a handheld spear thrower that allows a deadly dart to be launched with significantly improved distance and accuracy as well as far greater power. While no evidence of textile making or weaving exists, their ability to harvest, tan and work leather is thought to be unrivalled, as it is known they have mastered the ability to turn raw hide into soft, supple and waterproof leather.
In regard to their dwelling in caves, it has been noted that the caves chosen by the Troglodytes for long term habitation are large, well-ventilated, have easy access to a constant supply of fresh water and abundant fuel, and are furnished with the most comfortable furniture, hangings and floor coverings available to them. Well-designed and carefully crafted benches, hearths and racks provide comfortable surroundings while furs, boughs, skins and heather provide surprisingly comfortable and ergonomic beds. Woven mats of reeds and freshly rushes cover the bare floors and provide a fresh scent to what might be an otherwise damp or smokey environment.
Interspecies Relations and Assumptions
Very nearly everything known in the civilized world about the Troglodytes and their culture comes from observations made by Dragons, specifically Silver Dragons and Iron Dragons. To date, no known specimen of Troglodyte has ever been examined by anyone from the known world.
A female troglodyte displaying typical hair, skin and eye coloration.
