Rookin
Race Details
Rookin are regularly on the move, never staying in one place long. Their kangaroo-like form means that they can maintain quite a fast form of long distance travel on foot which means they view the world as a much smaller place than most other races. This informs much of a Rookin's perspective and worldview. If there are problems or they are threatened, they can simply leave. They often find work as traders and interact with a myriad of different races as they travel from region to region, and are very open to different cultures as a result. This also means most Rookin are skilled foragers.
Roving Mobs
Rookin communities are called Mobs and are very tight-knit. This is mostly practical, as if someone can't keep up with their pace, it's difficult for a Mob to get to know them. The Mobs themselves are mostly family based though it's not uncommon for the Mob to also include Rookin from elsewhere as when Rookin Mobs meet they often hold a celebration and new relationships are formed.
When two Mobs encounter each other in the world, it's either a rare occurrence or it was planned seasons ago. Due to constantly being on the move, the chance for two Mobs to run into each other is very uncommon. This means that when it happens, Mobs usually plan to meet again in the same location seasons or years later. These events are a cause for celebration which usually goes on for weeks. If Rookin know a Mob Meet is coming up, they'll usually start preparing for it by stockpiling supplies.
Swift and Effective
If threatened, an entire Mob will usually pack up camp in the space of an hour and will be on their way to the next choice location for a camp. However, if they are for some reason unable to leave, this is the only time a Mob may become aggressive. Rookin Mobs that decide to attack an enemy are an overwhelming force, highly organised as they seek to achieve their goals in minimum time so they can be on their way as soon as possible. Rookin can easily leap over soldiers in shield formations, the walls of small outposts, and moats or trenches meaning that combined with their speed, attack comes from all angles. Stories are told of Rookin Mobs overwhelming enemy positions and in minutes leaving again after having rescued a kidnapped Rookin youth or slaughtering the group threatening their travel.
A Varied Bunch
Rookin culture is mostly grounded in love for nature, for in the vast stretches of wilderness between spots of civilisation they are supported and nourished by the natural world. As a result, many Rookin consider everywhere outside of "civilised" places to be home. Too long spent in a city will make any Rookin homesick for wide vistas and open skies.
It's also not uncommon for Rookin to adopt different ideas, cultural attributes, beliefs, or magics in their wide-ranging interaction with a vast variety of peoples. This may lead some Rookin to be fascinated by a particular region or culture, choosing to stay within their corner of the world rather than continuing with their Mob. These Rookin often still travel regularly but may become more established in the area, forming a variety of connections with people throughout the area.
Rookin Traits
Your Rookin character has the following racial traits.
Ability Score Increase
Your Dexterity score increases by 2, and your Wisdom score increases by 1.
Age
Rookin have lifespans equivalent to humans.
Alignment
Rookin tend towards neutral alignments, their interaction with so many cultures means they're often non-judgmental.
Size
Rookin are taller on average than humans with heights reaching up to 7ft, they range from similar weight to humans to quite bulky. Your size is Medium.
Speed
Your base walking speed is 40 feet.
Folk of the Wilds
You have proficiency in one of the following skills of your choice: Nature or Survival.
Built for Speed
Your large legs and tail allow you to hit some serious speeds and perform huge jumps but also means you're unable to walk backwards. Your long jump is up to 25 feet and your high jump is up to 15 feet, if you get a running start.
In addition, your travel pace is increased, you can move at a Fast Pace (30 miles a day) without penalty and at a Very Fast Pace (40 miles a day) while taking the usual penalty for Fast Pace, -5 penalty to passive Wisdom (Perception) scores. Rookin don't see the need for terrestrial mounts.
Boxing Roo
You have advantage on Strength (Athletics) checks to grapple a creature. While you're grappling someone, you can lean back on your tail and kick. You can make two unarmed strikes as an action against any creature you have grappled.
Powerful Legs
Your legs are natural weapons, which you can use to make unarmed strikes. If you hit with them, you can deal bludgeoning damage equal to 1d6 + your Strength modifier, instead of the normal damage for an unarmed strike.
Languages
You can speak, read, and write Common and one other language of your choice.
Art credit: screwbald https://www.deviantart.com/screwbald/art/FC-Flyer-176029602
