Human

Humans dwelling in Mangal are the distant descendants of ancient Zokans who arrived thousands of years ago. Though they arrived as conquerors and profiteers, most now survive through trade and cooperation with other races. Contemporary humans are renowned for their ingenuity and craftsmanship.  

Physiology and Lifecycle

Though Mangal is now an endless jungle, humans vary as broadly as on other worlds. They are many generations removed descendants of a far-reaching empire that touched many lands. Humans are typically considered adults at some point between 15 and 20 years old, depending on their communities. They age more slowly than on other worlds but are unlikely to live longer than 120 years.  

Culture and Traditions

Humans on Mangal are far from the dominant race. Both lizardfolk and goblins are more numerous, and most elven Warbands are more than a match for the martial capabilities of a human settlement. Human culture was once dominated by the customs of ancient Zoka, but centuries of splintering and survival have made just about every human community unique. Whatever their customs may be, humans now survive by creating alliances and trade with their non-human neighbors. Ashen Ring  warlocks are often human, offering magical protection to human settlements. While not all human communities are on good terms with the warlocks, the common association provides a level of protection to human communities.   Most humans live in semi-permanent settlements of a few dozen to a hundred individuals within Havenwood groves. Communities usually consist of extended families, with trade and intermarriage between these groups being common. Human settlements tend to be relatively safe and welcome outsiders, including those of other races. Some larger communities exist, but the topography of Mangal makes the agricultural base to sustain populous cities impossible.   There are rare human communities in the Root Wilds, which tend to be less welcoming to outsiders after generations of living in almost constant danger. Their customs and traditions vary much more from settlement to settlement than their Havenwood dwelling cousins. They are also more likely to serve or deal with hags or other powerful evil creatures to survive.  

Views on Other Races

• Bindlewise Goblins. "Fine folk, the lifeblood of the world, if a little strange. They may be the only folks willing to bring in goods from the Wilds, and they're always keen to trade."
• Canopy Elves. "Best leave them be. Unless you have a hag bewitching your neighborhood; then a few words in the right ears and you'll end up with a dead hag's head and maybe a little compensation for your trouble."
• Pithlings. "No better healers to be found, fine woodwork as well. Best to stay on their good side. Luckily, it's just about the only side they have!"
• Hagspawn. "Poor wretches. You have to feel for them, but you also have to think about whether you want one of their witch mothers lurking around checking up on them..."
• Lizardfolk. "Humorless, and sometimes downright unpleasant. But they're honest enough folk and speak their minds. You always know where you stand."