War-Turtle
War-Turtles are militant cousins of the tortles. Although clearly of the same stock, most War Turtles have quite different lifestyles and personalities from their more mellow kin. They even spell the name of their species differently so as to avoid association with whom they consider to be somewhat embarrassing relatives. War-Turtles are drawn to conflict and entire tribes have historically offered themselves as mercenaries to keep their skills sharp.
However, recent generations have seen growing numbers of War-Turtles seeking more peaceful lifestyles like typical tortles, much to the disapproval of more traditional War-Turtles.
War-Turtle Traits
War-Turtles possess the following racial traits.
Ability Score Increase
Your Strength score increases by 2, and your Constitution score increases by 1.
Age
Young War-Turtles constantly train for battle and are forced to grow up quickly. They are considered adults at the age of 12. They could easily live to 70 given most of them are in peak physical condition. However, many die considerably younger in combat, which they hold as the highest honor.
Alignment
Most War-Turtles are neutral. While generally not malevolent, few could be described as warm, at least to outsiders. They train intensely in groups as children, but they also admire those who seek out individual glory.
Size
War-Turtle adults stand 6 to 7 feet tall and average 550 pounds. Their shells account for roughly one-third of their weight. Your size is Medium.
Speed
Your base walking speed is 30 feet.
Weapons Training
Compared with their tortle brethren, War-Turtles have atrophied claws, as they prefer to use manufactured weapons. War-Turtles are proficient in simple and martial weapons, rigorously training since they are old enough to hold a stick.
Hold Breath
You can hold your breath for up to 1 hour at a time. War-Turtles aren't graceful swimmers, but they can stay underwater for some time before needing to come up for air.
Natural Armor
Due to your thick shell and the shape of your body, you are ill-suited to wearing armor. Your shell provides considerable protection, however; it gives you a base AC of 17 (your Dexterity modifier doesn't affect this number). You gain no benefit from wearing armor, but if you are using a shield, you can apply the shield's bonus as normal.
Bold
Although they were once able to withdraw into their shells, War-Turtles have over time lost the ability to do so as they regard withdrawal as cowardly. War-Turtles are taught to stand and fight. They have advantage on saving throws against being frightened.
Fierce
You gain proficiency in the Intimidation skill. War-Turtles know how to strike fear into the hearts of their enemies.
Languages
You can speak, read, and write Common and Aquan.
Art Credit
Turtle Tribe Warrior by Jose Arias
