Cervan
Cervans are a versatile deer-like folk who make their homes in small, intimate villages. More insular than other beastfolks, cervans often reside deep in the most ancient parts of vast forest, in tree stands and groves far from other settlements.
- Reputation: Cervans are often seen as resilient and introspective forest dwellers, admired for their agility and spiritual depth. Their stoic demeanor and connection to nature lend them an air of quiet wisdom.
by Becca Hallstedt
General Information
Physiologie
Others
Culture
Community
One of the reasons cervans form such close-knit communities is a mistrust of outsiders. Cervans possess a wariness that makes it hard for others to gain their trust. The ability to balance their innate caution with practical considerations is one of the cervans’ greatest strengths. Cervans teach that the best means of survival in any situation is to remain calm and weigh one’s options. The best cervan leaders favor this approach.The Sight
Cervans have a unique ability to bounce back and survive a physical shock that might kill others. Occasionally, cervans who survive such traumas are granted mystical visions. Sometimes these are flashes of insight into the world around them, sometimes portents of doom, and other times visions of a far away future. Known among cervans as “The Sight,” this phenomenon is elusive, and out of the control of mortals. Cervans who have seen visions in this way are known as “The Sighted,” and after this initial event, some will suddenly find themselves receptive to visions of the past, present, and future. A cervan whose Sight has been triggered is encouraged to hone it, so that they might take on the role of a seer within their village. However, these efforts aren’t always met with success. The Sight will sometimes visit a cervan only once in their lifetime, with no amount of training granting a glimpse of such visions again. This is believed to be for the best, as cervans acknowledge that those who are truly Sighted carry knowledge that can be both a blessing and a curse.Characteristics
Physical features
Aging
Cervans reach maturity around 12 years. They live long lives compared to the rest of the beastfolks, between 100 and 150 years, something they attribute as much to their way of life as the blessing of Ysera. Pronghorns generally live longer than grove cervans, which is considered a sign of Ysera’s favor.Physique
Cervans have a robust physique and are rarely sick. They are one of the longest-lived races among the beastfolks. Though their wariness has earned them a reputation as timid, cervans are cautious because they remain active and alert, and generally prefer practice to contemplation. Cervans like to pursue skills independently in order to give themselves a sense of purpose.Lineages
The lineages and subspecies presented in this article are specific to Toriel, and may differ significantly from those found in Dungeons & Dragons. These lineages reflect the unique cultures, histories, and environments of Toriel.
Players are welcome to use the mechanics of any official or third-party lineage, but are encouraged to reflavor them as one of the lineages native to Toriel to better fit the world’s lore. Talk to your DM to find a narrative fit that works for your character and the setting.
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