Goliath

Size: Medium or Large (depending on stance)
Speed: 30 feet
Lifespan: 200 years
Languages: Tanglish, Dwarvish (dialect)

Overview

TBD — DM

Physical Description

Goliaths are humanoids descended from Giants. The first goliaths lived on the highest mountain peaks—far above the tree line, where the air is thin and frigid winds howl. Distantly related to giants and infused with the supernatural essence of their ancestors' mountainous home, goliaths stand between 7 and 8 feet tall and have a wide array of skin tones resembling different types of stone.

Their skin patterns often mimic the appearance of stone—granite, marble, slate, or other mountain minerals—giving them a distinctive appearance that reflects their heritage. They are powerfully built, with broad shoulders and strong frames that speak to their mountain-dwelling ancestry and the harsh conditions of their high-altitude homes.

Society and Customs

Goliaths live high in the mountains, in the most remote and inaccessible peaks where few other sentient races dare to venture. They are the only sentient race that Giants will allow into their territory—a testament to the relationship between goliaths and their giant ancestors. This unique relationship has shaped goliath culture profoundly.

Relationship with Giants

Goliaths live in small communes or clans, and they revere the Giant whose territory they dwell in. This relationship is central to goliath identity. The giant serves as a protector, guardian, and sometimes teacher to the goliath clan, while the goliaths serve as the only mortals who can safely inhabit the giant's domain. This mutual respect creates a bond that few other races understand.

Goliath clans often take on roles that support or complement their giant patron. Some clans serve as scouts, warning the giant of approaching threats. Others act as intermediaries, carrying messages or goods between the giant's territory and lower elevations. Still others simply live in harmony with the giant, respecting their territory and benefiting from the protection it provides.

Mountain Life

Life in the high mountains shapes every aspect of goliath culture. They are adapted to the harsh conditions—thin air, extreme cold, treacherous terrain, and isolation. Goliath communities are small and self-reliant, as the harsh mountain environment does not support large populations. They must be skilled hunters, gatherers, and crafters, creating everything they need to survive.

Mountain life also instills values of endurance, strength, and respect for the natural world. Goliaths understand that the mountain is unforgiving, and those who do not respect it or show proper caution will not survive. This creates a culture that values preparedness, competence, and mutual support within the clan.

Affinity for Fae

Goliaths have a natural affinity for the Fae, gaining advantage on checks to negotiate with them. This affinity likely stems from their connection to Giants, who are powerful fae entities themselves. Goliaths understand the importance of respect, territory, and the natural order in ways that align with fae values, making them natural intermediaries between mortals and fae beings.

This fae affinity means that goliaths are often sought out as guides, negotiators, or companions by those who need to interact with fae entities. They understand the protocols and customs that govern fae interactions, and their mountain heritage gives them insight into the perspectives of powerful natural entities.

Clan Structure

Goliath clans are small, typically consisting of extended families numbering in the dozens rather than hundreds. Each clan is self-sufficient and independent, though they maintain relationships with other clans through trade, communication, and occasional gatherings. Clan leadership is typically based on competence, experience, and the ability to protect and provide for the clan.

The clan's relationship with their patron Giant is usually managed by clan elders or a designated liaison who understands the giant's ways and can communicate effectively. This role is one of the most respected in goliath society.

Population and Distribution

TBD — DM

Role in the World

TBD — DM

Ability Score Increase

Your Strength score increases by 2, your Constitution score increases by 2, and your Dexterity score decreases by 2.

Racial Traits

Variable Size

You can choose to be Medium or Large depending on your stance. When you choose Large, you take up more space and gain the benefits of being Large size (increased reach, ability to wield larger weapons, etc.), but you may have difficulty in confined spaces. When you choose Medium, you can fit more easily into standard spaces.

You can change between Medium and Large stances as an action. While in Large stance, you gain the benefits and drawbacks of Large size. While in Medium stance, you function as a Medium creature. Your choice of stance reflects your ability to control your physical presence, drawing on your giant heritage when needed.

Little Giant

You have proficiency in the Athletics skill, and you count as one size larger when determining your carrying capacity and the weight you can push, drag, or lift. This trait reflects your giant heritage and your natural strength and athleticism.

Mountain Born

You have resistance to cold damage. You also naturally acclimate to high altitudes, even if you've never been to one. This includes elevations above 20,000 feet. You do not suffer the effects of altitude sickness, and you can function normally in thin air that would leave other races gasping for breath.

Stone's Endurance

You can supernaturally draw on unyielding stone to shrug off harm. When you take damage, you can use your reaction to roll a d12. Add your Constitution modifier to the number rolled and reduce the damage by that total.

You can use this trait a number of times equal to your proficiency bonus, and you regain all expended uses when you finish a long rest.

Fae Affinity

You have a natural affinity for fae beings, stemming from your connection to Giants and your understanding of their ways. You have advantage on Charisma (Persuasion) checks made to negotiate with fae entities, and you have advantage on Wisdom (Insight) checks made to understand fae behavior, motivations, or customs.