Storms of Anaias

Nokose, the Ursine Protectorate


The Nokose, an ancient society of clans, share a similar heritage to the Yahv. Their culture having grown and developed along with the Yahv, they were also displaced from their cavernous dwellings and woodlands during the the Time of the Shattering. Like the Yahv, they have found refuge in the realm of Anaias, where they continue their way of life within caves and woodlands.

Unlike the Yahv, the Nokose have fully embraced their connection with nature and the mystical forces that permeate it. They have delved into the depths of druidic practices, becoming attuned to the ancient powers of the natural world. Their shamans, in particular, hold deep knowledge and wield formidable magic, channeling the energy of the earth, the cycles of the moon, and the spirits of the animals.

The Nokose value their solitude and prefer to keep their interactions with outsiders to a minimum. They are cautious and selective in their dealings with those beyond their clans, as their primary focus is maintaining the delicate balance between nature and civilization. However, they maintain a respectful relationship with their Yahv neighbors, recognizing their shared heritage and the importance of harmony in their intertwined existence.

Within Nokose society, clans hold great significance. Each clan has its own distinct traditions, rituals, and responsibilities. They are tightly knit communities that live in harmony with nature, seeking wisdom from the spirits of the land and upholding the sacred bond between the natural world and themselves. Shamans play a vital role within the clans, serving as spiritual leaders, healers, and guardians of ancient knowledge.

The Nokose find solace and strength in the depths of caves and the whispering woods. Their connection with nature shapes their way of life, and they strive to preserve the sanctity of their ancestral lands. They understand the delicate balance that exists between the mystical and mundane, and they work diligently to ensure the preservation of this harmony, both for themselves and for the world around them.


Physiology

The Nokose, a proud and resilient people, possess distinct physiological attributes that reflect their ancient heritage. With a robust and muscular build, they stand tall and strong, embodying endurance and physical prowess. Their bodies are covered in thick fur that varies in color, ranging from deep earth tones to shades of brown and black, providing excellent camouflage in their woodland and cave habitats.

Their keen senses are finely tuned to the natural world. Their acute hearing allows them to discern the faintest rustle of leaves and the softest whispers of the wind. Their sharp, intelligent eyes, often amber or brown in color, scan their surroundings with precision, perceiving even the subtlest changes in light and movement.

The Nokose possess a natural agility and grace, moving silently through the forest undergrowth and navigating the labyrinthine cave systems with ease. Their limbs are sturdy, with powerful forelimbs that aid in climbing and traversing rocky terrains. They are equally adept on all fours or standing upright, adapting their posture to suit their environment and needs.

Their physiology is intertwined with their connection to nature and the druidic forces they embrace. Many Nokose bear intricate, nature-inspired markings on their fur, reminiscent of leaves, vines, or animal tracks, symbolizing their deep affinity with the natural world. These markings may vary between clans, serving as unique identifiers of their lineage and personal characteristics.

The Nokose exude an aura of tranquility and calm, rooted in their harmonious existence with nature. They possess a natural resilience and adaptability, capable of withstanding the harshest of environments and persevering in the face of adversity. Their connection to the land and their deep respect for its inhabitants grant them a profound understanding of the delicate balance that sustains life.

As children of the wilderness, the Nokose embody the spirit of the wild. Their physiology reflects their symbiotic relationship with nature, enabling them to navigate and thrive within the untamed realms they call home. Guided by their innate instincts and the wisdom bestowed upon them by the earth itself, they strive to protect the sanctity of their ancestral lands and preserve the delicate harmony between themselves and the natural world.


Society and Culture

The Nokose society is deeply rooted in their connection with nature and the mystical forces that permeate their world. They live in close-knit clans, each bound by a shared reverence for the earth and its bountiful gifts. Their culture is shaped by their druidic leanings, as they embrace the teachings of the natural world and the ancient wisdom passed down by their shamans.

Within Nokose society, the role of the shaman holds great significance. The shamans are the spiritual guides and leaders, serving as intermediaries between the physical and spiritual realms. They commune with the spirits of the land, the animals, and the elements, seeking their guidance and channeling their power to maintain the balance and harmony of their surroundings. The wisdom and insight of the shamans guide the decision-making process and shape the cultural practices of the Nokose.

The Nokose clans operate as autonomous units, each with its own distinct traditions, rituals, and customs. However, despite their individual identities, they maintain a sense of unity and cooperation, recognizing the importance of collective well-being. The clans share a profound respect for nature and an understanding of their role as stewards of the land. They strive to live in harmony with their environment, utilizing its resources sustainably and protecting it from harm.

In Nokose culture, strength is not measured solely by physical prowess but also by one's connection to the natural world. Skills in herbology, animal communication, and elemental manipulation are highly valued. Nokose druids and shamans play a vital role in healing the sick, communing with nature spirits, and maintaining the spiritual balance of their communities. Their deep understanding of the intricate web of life allows them to navigate the complex relationships between flora, fauna, and the energies of the land.

Political leadership among the Nokose is not centralized in a chief or ruler, but rather shared among the shamans and respected elders. Decisions are made through consensus, with the wisdom of the shamans guiding the discussions. The Nokose prioritize cooperation, communal well-being, and the preservation of their ancestral lands over individual ambitions. Conflict is rare within their society, as disputes are resolved through peaceful negotiations and a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all beings.

Outsiders are met with cautious curiosity by the Nokose. They value their solitude and prefer to maintain a respectful distance from those who do not share their deep reverence for nature. However, when outsiders show genuine respect for the land and a willingness to learn from the Nokose, they may be welcomed and offered guidance by the shamans. The Nokose view themselves as guardians of the natural world and are dedicated to sharing their wisdom with those who seek to live in harmony with the earth.

In summary, the Nokose society is a tapestry woven with the threads of nature, mysticism, and communal harmony. Guided by their druidic leanings and the wisdom of their shamans, they strive to protect the sanctity of the land and nurture a deep connection with the forces that sustain life. Through their rituals, traditions, and shared respect for all living beings, the Nokose embody a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of the world and their place within it.


Ability Score Increase. Your Wisdom score increases by 2, and your Constitution score increases by 1.

Size. Nokose are medium-sized creatures.

Speed. Your base walking speed is 30 feet.

Darkvision. Thanks to your keen senses, you have superior vision in dark and dim conditions. You can see in dim light within 60 feet of you as if it were bright light, and in darkness as if it were dim light. You can't discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.

Druidic Connection. You have proficiency in the Nature skill and can communicate simple ideas with beasts.

Nature's Resilience. You have advantage on saving throws against poison, and you have resistance to poison damage.

Shamanic Legacy. You know the Druidcraft cantrip. Once you reach 3rd level, you can cast the Entangle spell once per day as a 2nd-level spell. Wisdom is your spellcasting ability for these spells.

Languages. You can speak, read, and write Common and Sylvan.

Nokose Clan Selection

Path. You are deeply connected to the sacred groves and the cycle of life. You gain proficiency in the Nature skill and can cast the Druidcraft cantrip.

Willow. The wisdom of the willow flows through you. You gain proficiency in the Medicine skill and can use the Spare the Dying cantrip.

Earth. Your roots run deep into the earth, granting you resilience. You gain proficiency in the Survival skill and have resistance to poison damage.