Cat-Folk

Cat-folk walk upright like humans but move with a feline's easy grace. Their heads are those of great cats, soft tawny fur covers them in shades from pale tan to deep brown, and their slit-pupiled eyes are usually a brilliant green. Each has a tail 4 to 6 feet long that cannot grasp. They speak their own language and Common; some of the more primitive tribes purr their words, rolling their r's and hissing their s's.

They do not usually start fights but answer provocation swiftly, and once engaged they neither give nor expect mercy. Rather than ordinary weapons they use claws and teeth, but bare claws deal only 1d2, so most wear steel war claws strapped over the paw like gloves, each striking for 1d4. A warrior who hits with both front claws or war claws in a round may also rake with both hind claws, rolled separately, for 1d3 each.

The bravest and strongest ride saber-toothed tigers, the only cat-folk those beasts will respect. These tiger riders have 3+1 Hit Dice, at least 15 hit points and +1 to damage. Their special saddles let them fight two-handed while still steering the tiger, and even spring up to 20 feet from the saddle and attack in the same round.

A pride numbers 6d10 adults, plus noncombatant young equal to a quarter of that, and keeps 1d12 saber-toothed tigers. Between journeys it raises a temporary camp of bright tents and pavilions. Its chief has at least 5+1 Hit Dice, 24 or more hit points and +3 to damage, rules absolutely, and always rides with the six finest tiger riders on their mounts. Every pride has a 4 HD cleric who casts as a 4th-level priest; tales speak of stronger priests and of wizards perhaps reaching 7th level.

Prowess in battle is prized above all, which makes the tiger riders the most honored of the people. A strict warrior code governs every fighter's conduct.

Cat-folk are gifted artisans. In place of gems and jewelry, a pride's treasure consists of richly colored rugs, finely woven silk hangings, elegant bowls and cups, and similar valuables.

When they can be distracted from war, cat-folk are dependable trading partners. As skilled hunters, they keep game herds from growing too large.