Human

The humans of Equandria form a complex and multifaceted society that mirrors the diversity of the continent itself. Renowned for their adaptability and ambition, humans have established themselves as a dominant force in the political, cultural, and economic landscapes of Equandria. With lifespans typically ranging from 70 to 90 years, humans live relatively short lives compared to some other races, but this brevity fuels their drive to make the most of their time.
The human realm is a tapestry of kingdoms, city-states, and tribal communities. In the StormClaw Empire, they hold positions of authority as rulers, advisors, generals, and scholars. The empire's centralized government, under the guidance of the StormClaw dynasty, has united the diverse human population, allowing for the exchange of ideas and resources on a grand scale.
Humans are not defined by a single cultural identity but instead embrace a wide array of traditions, languages, and practices. This diversity is due to the different geographical regions they inhabit across Equandria, from the bustling cities of the Mercer River Valley to the remote villages of the Highland Peaks. Their flexible nature has allowed them to integrate and adapt to new environments, often resulting in unique hybrid cultures.
Religion plays a significant role in human society, with worship of the Elder Gods and other deities shaping their beliefs and guiding their actions. Humans often find themselves drawn to the gods that align with their aspirations, making offerings for protection, success, and guidance. This spiritual connection reinforces their sense of purpose and drives their pursuit of greatness.
Trade and commerce are essential to human civilization, and their willingness to travel and establish trade routes has led to the exchange of goods, ideas, and technologies across Equandria. Their bustling markets and ports are vibrant hubs of activity, where people from all walks of life come together to exchange stories and negotiate deals.
Despite their strengths, humans are not without their flaws. Ambition can lead to competition and conflict, both within their own societies and when interacting with other races. Their short lifespans also contribute to a sense of urgency that can sometimes lead to hasty decisions or impulsive actions.
In the grand tapestry of Equandria, humans are the threads that weave through every aspect of life. Their diversity, adaptability, and boundless potential continue to shape the continent's destiny, leaving an indelible mark on the world they inhabit.

Basic Information

Biological Traits

Humans in Equandria possess a wide range of biological traits that contribute to their adaptability and diversity. While individual features may vary based on region, culture, and ancestry, there are several key characteristics that define the human species across the continent.
Physique: Equandrian humans display a remarkable variety of physical builds, ranging from slender to muscular, and from petite to tall. This diversity is often a reflection of their environment, lifestyle, and dietary habits. Humans can be found in all shapes and sizes, making them adaptable to different climates and living conditions.
Skin Tone: Human skin tones span a spectrum of hues, from the fairest of pale to the deepest of melanin-rich tones. This wide range of skin colors is attributed to their ancestral migration patterns and adaptation to various environments. Skin tones can carry cultural significance, symbolizing heritage, and often fostering a sense of belonging within distinct communities.
Hair and Eye Color: Equandrian humans exhibit an array of hair colors, including shades of black, brown, blonde, and red. Eye colors can vary from the deepest browns to the brightest blues, greens, and grays. These variations are often influenced by genetic inheritance and contribute to the uniqueness of each individual.
Hair Texture and Features: Human hair textures encompass everything from straight and wavy to curly and coiled. Cultural practices and regional climates often play a role in shaping hair styling and grooming traditions. Some cultures view certain hairstyles or hair accessories as expressions of identity, tradition, or status.
Facial Features: Facial features among humans in Equandria are characterized by a diverse array of shapes and proportions. Nose shapes, eye shapes, and facial structures vary based on ancestral backgrounds and regions. These features are an important aspect of personal identity and cultural representation.
Lifespan: The average human lifespan in Equandria varies depending on factors such as environment, healthcare, and access to resources. Generally, humans live to be around 70 to 100 years old, although some individuals may live longer due to advances in medicine, magic, or divine blessings.
Reproduction and Family Structure: Human reproduction involves a gestation period of approximately nine months, culminating in the birth of a single infant. Humans practice a range of family structures, including nuclear families, extended families, and communal arrangements. This diversity of family dynamics contributes to the richness of Equandrian societies.
Equandrian humans thrive due to their incredible adaptability, which allows them to inhabit a variety of environments and form complex societies. Their biological traits, combined with their intellectual capacities, creativity, and diverse cultural practices, contribute to the intricate tapestry of life across the continent.

Civilization and Culture

Naming Traditions

In the diverse and sprawling world of Equandria, the naming traditions of humans vary greatly across the different regions, cultures, and societies that dot the landscape. These names often reflect the rich tapestry of history, language, and beliefs that have shaped each civilization. However, despite the myriad variations, some common threads can be observed in the naming conventions of humans.
First Names: First names in Equandria are deeply rooted in culture, history, and often hold personal significance. They can be inspired by various sources such as nature, mythology, virtues, familial ancestry, or even legendary heroes. For instance, a name like "Elysia" might evoke feelings of beauty and tranquility, while "Aldric" could reflect strength and power. Elders and parents often play a significant role in bestowing names upon the younger generation, passing down traditions and stories through the act of naming.
Family Names: Family names among humans can vary greatly, ranging from patronymic or matronymic names to names based on professions, locations, or even unique attributes. For example, a family residing by the sea might bear the surname "Seabreeze," while a family known for their blacksmithing skills might carry the name "Ironforge." Over time, these surnames can become synonymous with the family's identity, and they often carry a sense of pride and heritage.
Clan and Tribal Names: In some regions of Equandria, humans are organized into clans, tribes, or extended families that share a common lineage or origin. These larger groups may have their own unique names, often reflecting their shared history, values, or totemic symbols. These names serve to foster a sense of belonging and unity among members of the same group.
Titles and Honorifics: Titles and honorifics can also be an integral part of human naming traditions. They often indicate one's social status, accomplishments, or roles within society. Titles such as "Lord," "Lady," "Knight," or "Master" might be used to denote nobility, while honorifics like "Elder," "Sage," or "Guardian" could signify a person's respected position within their community.
In Equandria, the diversity of human cultures ensures that each region offers a unique tapestry of naming traditions, reflecting the intricate blend of history, values, and experiences that shape the lives of its inhabitants. Whether inspired by ancient legends, natural wonders, or ancestral stories, human names serve as a testament to the rich and dynamic heritage that flows through the veins of every individual.

History

In the age before time as mortals know it, when the world of Equandria was but a canvas of potential, the gods gathered in the celestial realm. They saw the verdant lands, the mighty oceans, and the boundless skies, yet they felt that something was missing from this masterpiece. As they gazed upon the world they had formed, a spark of inspiration ignited among them.
In their wisdom and unity, the gods decided to create a new race, one that would be the epitome of their combined essence. They each contributed a fragment of their own power, weaving together the essence of life, magic, and divine energy. This intricate process gave rise to humanity, a race imbued with the spirit of curiosity, adaptability, and the potential for greatness.
Tyr, the Justicemaker, breathed into them the sense of morality and the drive to seek justice. Melora, the Wild Mother, bestowed upon them a connection to the natural world and a reverence for its beauty. Mystra, the All-Seeing, gifted humans with the spark of magic, allowing them to shape reality with their will. And so, each god contributed their unique traits, infusing humans with a blend of their divine qualities.
Yet, as with all things born of the gods' creations, there was balance to be maintained. The gods decreed that humans would possess free will, the power to choose their path, and forge their destiny. This gift, however, came with the responsibility to navigate the intricate web of consequences that their choices would weave.
The gods then gently placed humanity upon the fertile lands of Equandria, granting them the opportunity to flourish and evolve. As humans spread across the continents, they built civilizations, forged empires, and created art, culture, and knowledge. They learned to harness the magic that flowed through their veins, and in doing so, they brought about both greatness and turmoil.
The humans of Equandria became a reflection of their divine creators, embodying their virtues and vices alike. They demonstrated the potential for both kindness and cruelty, enlightenment and ignorance, love and conflict. Through their journey, they sought to understand their place in the grand tapestry of the world, to navigate the ever-changing currents of fate.
And so, the mythological creation of humans stood as a testament to the gods' wisdom, their ability to shape life, and their belief in the potential of their creation. Humans, born from the harmonious collaboration of the divine, continue to chart their own destinies upon the canvas of Equandria, forever weaving their own threads into the rich fabric of the world's history.

D&D 5E

Human

The humans of Equandria form a complex and multifaceted society that mirrors the diversity of the continent itself. Renowned for their adaptability and ambition, humans have established themselves as a dominant force in the political, cultural, and economic landscapes of Equandria. With lifespans typically ranging from 70 to 90 years, humans live relatively short lives compared to some other races, but this brevity fuels their drive to make the most of their time.

ability score increase: +1 to everything

age: Humans reach adulthood in their late teens and live less than a century.

Size: Medium

speed: 30ft

Languages: You can speak, read, and write Common and one extra language of your choice. Humans typically learn the languages of other peoples they deal with, including obscure dialects. They are fond of sprinkling their speech with words borrowed from other tongues: Orc curses, Elvish musical expressions, Dwarvish military phrases, and so on.

Humans are the most adaptable and ambitious people among the common races. They have widely varying tastes, morals, and customs in the many different lands where they have settled. When they settle, though, they stay: they build cities to last for the ages, and great kingdoms that can persist for long centuries. An individual human might have a relatively short life span, but a human nation or culture preserves traditions with origins far beyond the reach of any single human’s memory. They live fully in the present—making them well suited to the adventuring life—but also plan for the future, striving to leave a lasting legacy. Individually and as a group, humans are adaptable opportunists, and they stay alert to changing political and social dynamics.