Kin

Milo Greenleaf leaned back in his chair at the village inn, a contented smile spreading across his face as he took a hearty bite of his third slice of apple pie. Around him, a group of adventurers listened intently, laughter bubbling up as he finished his tale. Milo’s eyes twinkled with mischief as he gestured dramatically with his fork.   “So there I was,” Milo said, his voice rising with enthusiasm, “standing atop the grand banquet table in the hall of Lord Everston, holding a lute in one hand and a turkey leg in the other. The Lord himself, red in the face, was shouting something about propriety and his precious crystal chandeliers.”   Milo paused to take a sip of ale, letting the suspense hang in the air before continuing. “But I told him, ‘Your Lordship, a feast without a bit of fun is like a pie without filling—just a waste of good crust!’ And wouldn’t you know it, by the end of the night, even Lord Everston was juggling pastries and singing along!”   The inn erupted with laughter, the joy infectious as Milo leaned in, lowering his voice conspiratorially. “That’s the Kin way, you see—never let a good party go to waste, always leave room for dessert, and remember: life’s too short not to wear a pudding as a hat at least once.”   With a wink and a grin, Milo lifted his pie in a toast, his cheerful spirit and love for life shining bright in the warm glow of the firelight.

 

Joyful Spirits, Close-Knit Bonds

The Kin are a people of warmth and cheer, known across Tavomia for their hospitality and zest for life. They thrive in close-knit communities, where shared meals, laughter, and heartfelt storytelling are daily rituals. To the Kin, every moment is an opportunity to connect with others, to savor the small joys, and to remind themselves—and everyone around them—that life is worth celebrating.   Though they avoid politics and conflict, the Kin have left a profound mark on the world. Their masterful cooking, lively festivals, and welcoming homes have inspired countless songs and tales, cementing their place as one of Tavomia’s most beloved folk.  

Small Stature, Big Hearts

The Kin are a diminutive people, standing between three and four feet tall, with rounded features and sturdy builds. Their warm, expressive eyes seem to reflect the joy they carry, while their earthy-toned hair, ranging from deep auburn to golden blond, often falls in soft waves or curls. Many Kin take pride in their practical charm, letting their appearance reflect the simplicity and beauty of their rural heritage.   Kin attire is both functional and distinctive, designed for comfort while celebrating individuality. Waistcoats, breeches, and sturdy hats are common staples, often adorned with intricate embroidery or personalized flourishes. Clothing is passed down through generations, lovingly repaired and maintained as treasured heirlooms. These garments are more than mere fabric—they are tokens of family history, imbued with sentimental value and pride.   Their love for harmony extends to their architecture as well. Homes built into hillsides or nestled among groves blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Smoke curling from chimneys and gardens blooming with vibrant colors give their villages a fairy-tale charm, making them feel like warm, welcoming havens to all who visit.  

Kin Society and Culture

Kin society revolves around tight-knit communities where cooperation and kindness are paramount. Each village is governed by a council of elders and a mayor elected from their number. This leadership ensures fairness and harmony, giving every voice a chance to be heard. Even in bustling cities, the Kin form small, self-sufficient neighborhoods, bringing the same sense of unity to urban centers.   Hospitality is a cornerstone of Kin culture. Guests, whether old friends or wandering strangers, are greeted with open arms and warm smiles. A meal shared with a Kin family is a feast not just for the stomach but for the soul, as every dish is prepared with love and care. Kin kitchens are places of magic, brimming with the scents of pies, stews, and smoked meats, each bite an invitation to stay a little longer.  

A Life of Celebration

Festivals are the heart of Kin life. Marking everything from the changing seasons to the end of a successful harvest, these joyous gatherings are filled with music, dancing, and endless feasting. Kin celebrations are open to all, and visitors often leave with fond memories of laughter, camaraderie, and the warmth of a welcoming fire.   Kin never stray far from their lucky charms—small trinkets that hold deep personal meaning. Whether it’s a polished stone found during a childhood adventure or a family heirloom passed through generations, these objects are considered talismans of good fortune. A lost charm is a cause for distress, prompting frantic searches that often lead to moments of both humor and heartfelt emotion.  

Wanderers at Heart

Though the Kin are deeply rooted in their homes, wanderlust often grips them in their youth. This urge to explore the wider world stems from an insatiable curiosity and a love for new experiences. Those who venture out return with tales of adventure, eager to share their stories with loved ones. For some, the road becomes their true home, and they carry the Kin’s warmth and traditions to distant lands.   Playful and curious, Kin are natural charmers. Even as adults, their love for lighthearted mischief endures. Whether delighting in a harmless prank or laughing over a shared joke, the Kin remind all they meet that laughter is life’s greatest gift.   Storytelling is a cherished tradition among the Kin, with tales serving as the glue that binds their communities together. From grand adventures to simple acts of kindness, these stories are woven into the cultural fabric of their people, ensuring that the lessons and laughter of the past endure for generations.  

A Picture of Harmony

Kin settlements are havens of peace and productivity. Small hamlets surrounded by fertile farmland, these villages blend seamlessly with their natural environments. Homes built into hillsides or nestled among the trees create an idyllic landscape, while the sounds of music and the aroma of fresh bread waft through the air. Kin villages embody their values: harmony, hospitality, and a deep connection to the land.  

Language and Names

The Kin speak Landrian, a language characterized by its rhythmic, musical quality. Their names often reflect this musicality, with syllables that are easy to sing or chant, adding to the melodic nature of their speech. Kin family names typically have connections to the natural world, reflecting their deep connection to the land they call home.   Female Names: Bree, Fae, Kip, Milo, Nell, Pip, Remy, Tilly.   Male Names: Alby, Finn, Hob, Jem, Kit, Ned, Sam, Walt.   Family Names: Greenleaf, Riverstone, Meadowbrook, Willowrush.  

Kin Racial Traits

Your Kin character has a variety of natural abilities and traits inherited from their Kin heritage.   Ability Score Increase. Your Dexterity score increases by 2, and your Constitution score increases by 1.   Age. Kin reach adulthood at the age of 20 and typically live up to 120 years.   Alignment. Most Kin are neutral good. They value family and friendship above all else and are generally kind-hearted and helpful.   Size. Kin are small creatures, standing about 3 feet tall and weighing around 50 pounds.   Speed. Your base walking speed is 25 feet.   Nature's Bounty. You have proficiency in the Nature skill and with one type of artisan's tools related to food, such as Brewer's Supplies or Cook's Utensils. Kin have a deep understanding of the natural world and an affinity for crafting and preparing food.   Nimble Escape. You can take the Disengage or Hide action as a bonus action on each of your turns. This reflects the Kin’s natural agility and ability to avoid danger.   Unique Physiology. Due to their small size and unique biology, Kin can move through the space of any creature that is of a size larger than theirs without difficulty.   Convivial Nature. You have proficiency in one musical instrument of your choice and the Performance skill, reflecting your love of music and community. Additionally, you have advantage on Charisma checks when interacting with other creatures who share your love of food and drink.   Strong Back. The Kin's experience in farming and transporting large quantities of food has made them particularly adept at carrying heavy loads. A Kin can carry up to twice as much weight as a typical humanoid before becoming encumbered.   Lucky Charm. The Kin believe in the power of trinkets and small objects that bring good luck. When a Kin possesses a trinket that they believe to be lucky, they gain a +1 bonus to all saving throws. If they lose the trinket, they lose the bonus until they find it again or acquire a new one.   Languages. You can speak, read, and write Landrian.