Tanuki

Source: The Gods Are Bastards - Web Serial
Type: Trickster Fae Entity
Sentience: Yes

Physical Description

Tanuki are shape-shifting raccoon-dog spirits that typically appear as small, furry creatures resembling raccoons or tanuki (raccoon dogs). They have expressive faces and may have mischievous eyes that reflect their playful nature. Tanuki are masters of shapeshifting—their ability to transform is their defining characteristic and greatest power.

In their natural form, tanuki have soft fur, rounded features, and may have markings that give them a distinctive appearance. When shapeshifted, they can take on nearly any form—they can appear as humans, animals, objects, or even combinations of forms. Their shapeshifting is incredibly versatile and detailed, allowing them to convincingly mimic other creatures, change size dramatically, or even transform into inanimate objects. While their transformations are usually flawless, very astute observers might notice subtle raccoon-like features or behaviors that betray their true nature.

Personality

Tanuki are playful, mischievous tricksters known for their love of pranks, games, and deception. They enjoy playing tricks on humans and other creatures, but their mischief is generally harmless rather than malicious. They value fun, freedom, and the joy of confusing or surprising others.

Tanuki can be loyal companions once a genuine relationship is formed, but they may continue to play pranks on their friends. They are curious and adventurous, often getting into trouble through their playful nature.

Location

Tanuki are primarily found in Sifan, the same region where kitsune are common. They may also be found in other wild areas, particularly forests and natural settings where they can play their tricks freely. Like kitsune, tanuki may venture beyond Sifan but are most common in that region.

They may be encountered in areas where trickery and illusion are common, or near places where the barrier between the material plane and the Fey Realm is thin.

Bond Tiers and Rewards

As a Druid's bond with a Tanuki strengthens, they gain cumulative abilities and spells. Tanuki grant powers of shapeshifting, illusion, and trickery.

Tier 1: Initial Bond (Minimum Level 5)

Special Ability: Trickster's Guile You gain proficiency in Deception and Sleight of Hand. If already proficient, you gain expertise.

Granted Spells: Disguise Self, Silent Image

Tier 2: Growing Bond

Special Ability: Shape of Mischief Once per short rest, you can cast Disguise Self without expending a spell slot.

Granted Spells: Mirror Image, Invisibility

Tier 3: Strong Bond

Special Ability: Illusory Double Once per day, you can cast Mirror Image without expending a spell slot. Additionally, you have advantage on saves against illusions.

Granted Spells: Major Image, Nondetection

Tier 4: Deep Bond

Special Ability: Master Shapeshifter You can cast Polymorph on yourself once per day without expending a spell slot. Duration increases to 2 hours.

Granted Spells: Polymorph, Mislead

Spell Slot Bonuses

In addition to granted spells and special abilities, your Tanuki patron grants bonus spell slots based on bond strength:

Tier 1: No bonus (baseline)
Tier 2: +1 spell slot at highest available level
Tier 3: +2 spell slots distributed across levels
Tier 4: +3 spell slots distributed across levels