Vireons resemble griffons but are smaller and more agile. Their front half shows avian features: a sharp, raptor-like beak and a feathered head crest capable of expressing emotion. Two forelimbs end in taloned feet with partially opposable digits, while their hind quarters resemble a sleek feline or canine. They can’t truly fly but can glide with half-spread wing membranes for short leaps.
Vireons typically come from high mesas or cloud-forests, forming small enclaves known for artistry and intricate aerial dancing. They prize personal creativity and competitive spirit, seeing life as a series of challenges to be soared above. While proud, they’re not aloof, easily bonding with those who match their sense of wonder.
Gliding. Because they can’t truly fly, they adapt better to city life than full avians. They can climb towers, leap between rooftops, and navigate crowds with surprising dexterity.
Professions & Roles. Many serve as couriers, scouts, or messengers in mountainous regions. Their nimble foretalons allow them to hold writing tools or weapons, though heavy armor can hamper their gliding membranes.
Social Challenges. Some folk might be startled by a half-bird, half-cat figure strolling through the marketplace. Over time, Vireons can earn acceptance by showing off the utility of their climbing and gliding in daily tasks—like retrieving items from tall spires or putting on aerial shows.
Vireons are slender quadrupeds with an avian front half—complete with a sharp beak and expressive feather crest—and a rear half reminiscent of a nimble feline or canine. While they cannot truly fly, partial wing membranes beneath their forelimbs allow them to glide short distances or slow their descent. Their foretalons, each boasting a few flexible digits, are adept enough to manipulate simple tools or carry small weapons.
Originally dwelling on cliff edges or in high forest canopies, Vireons learned to exploit vertical space for hunting and safety. Many developed a love of artistry and song, performing aerial displays to impress friends or rivals. In bustling cities, they often stand out for their inquisitive nature, finding niches as couriers, scouts, or even performers who combine acrobatics with melodic calls.
You are a Monstrosity (avian) instead of a Humanoid.
Your Dexterity score increases by 2, and your Intelligence score increases by 1.
Vireons typically mature around 10 years of age and can live up to 80 or 90 years. Their agility remains notable until well into later life.
They tend toward neutral or chaotic good, celebrating personal freedom and creative expression.
You are Medium. Vireons stand about 4 or 5 feet tall at the shoulder, with an overall length of 6 to 7 feet.
Your base walking speed is 30 feet.
When you fall at least 10 feet, you can extend your wing membranes to reduce your falling speed to 30 feet per round, taking no damage on landing. You must have at least one foretalon free to do this. You may fall up to 30 feet down and choose to move 30 feet in horizontal position -- effectively "gliding" at a 45 degree angle. After you land from more than a 30 foot drop you land and absorb the shock with your limbs and belly and have any further movement reduced by 10 feet if any was available.
Your foretalons function similarly to hands. You can wield light or one-handed weapons normally, though heavy or two-handed weapons require specialized handles. You can also manipulate most tools or objects with ease.
You have proficiency in the Perception skill, and you have advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks to spot distant creatures or objects in clear terrain.
You have a climb speed of 20 feet. Your talons and agile body help you scale vertical surfaces or leap between ledges with minimal effort.
You can speak, read, and write Common and one additional language (often Auran or a regional dialect). Your voice carries an airy or trilling quality.