Tabaxi (ta-BACK-see)

Tabaxi (or "catfolk") have no ancestral settlements of their own, and most prefer to live a traveling life. Many attribute this to their origin story, created by The Traveler and carried by the winds. Tabaxi often travel in family groups, but it is not uncommon for them to join other bands of travelers as well. Despite their love of travel, Tabaxi are wary of the ocean, and it's rare to find them traveling by ship.
While there are not many Tabaxi in Arvor, their travels make them well-known across the continent. Their arrival in settlements is typically considered an exciting time. Locals come out to visit, bringing food and good tidings, excited to see the catfolk's wares and hear their stories.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

Tabaxi are often given names that are lyrical, poetic, or reflect some beauty from the natural world.

Common Myths and Legends

The Origin of Tabaxi

Avandra wandered down to the marshes by the sea, and when they arrived they sat to rest among the reeds. The winds whispered about, and Avandra called out "Oh Anemoi, I see you here. Stay with me a while."
The winds ceased, coalescing by The Traveler's fire. "Very well, let us be still, though I know neither of us may do it for long."
"Perhaps a game, then," Avandra reached into their pack, removing a deck of cards. "Cat and mouse?"
Anemoi agreed, and Avandra dealt them out. Avandra is a trickster, of course, and stashed a few up their sleeves.
But the Four Winds are witness to all secrets, and Anemoi knew of Avandra's tricks. Suddenly, the winds gusted from all directions and the cards blew from Avandra's sleeves to reveal their deceit. The gale sent the cards flying in the fuzz of the unsettled reeds. The Traveler laughed, casting the remaining cards skyward. "May you carry them always, and spread my luck across the world."
It's from the fuzz that the catfolk – Tabaxi – came to be. This is why they reeds are called cattails, after all. And this is why most tabaxi travel, carried by the winds, with the cards as their gift.