Whimsical adventures await in Humblewood
Humblewood is a whimsical world inhabited by animal-like humanoids called the Humblefolk and Birdfolk. First introduced by Hit Point Press, Humblewood is a 5th edition compatible setting with a wholesome world inhabited by animal characters that focuses on maintaining a community alongside adventuring.
In Humblewood, the vast and ancient Everden Forest forms the heart of the setting. The Birdfolk, residing in their lofty perches within the city of Alderheart, have long been protectors of the wood, while the Humblefolk navigate life closer to the forest floor. This harmony, however, is threatened by the encroaching Scorched Grove, a cursed land consuming the forest in fire and ash.
Humblewood is perfect for players who enjoy a blend of lighthearted adventure and meaningful themes, offering opportunities to explore the bonds of community and the balance between nature and civilization
Why choose Humblewood for your campaign?
A World of Community and Conflict
Humblewood emphasizes the importance of community, making it an excellent setting for players who enjoy stories about cooperation and diplomacy. The Birdfolk and Humblefolk share the Everden Forest, but their cultural differences and disputes offer plenty of opportunities for intrigue and role-playing. Players can choose to mediate these tensions, explore their roots, or uncover the forces threatening this fragile balance.
At the same time, external dangers like the Scorched Grove and marauding bandits challenge the forest’s unity, pushing adventurers to rise as protectors of their people.
Heroic Themes
Humblewood’s central narrative revolves around rising to meet challenges for the greater good. Characters can become heroes by defending their communities, aiding those in need, and confronting the growing corruption of the Scorched Grove. Unlike many settings focused on grand-scale conflicts, Humblewood highlights personal stakes, making even small victories feel meaningful. On this small scale, risking life and limb to find the right materials to fix a neighbor’s roof can be a grand undertaking!
The setting’s unique classes, abilities, and racial features allow players to embody the spirit of their chosen kinfolk. From Humblefolk who display resilience and resourcefulness to Birdfolk who soar through the skies as defenders of the forest. Every character concept comes with typical ideals that can act as a starting point for their personality.
Ecological Themes
Humblewood is deeply connected to the natural world, with its storylines often exploring the consequences of imbalance. The Scorched Grove represents not just a physical threat but also an environmental one, mirroring real-world concerns about the fragility of ecosystems. Players can engage with these themes, working to restore balance to the Everden or uncovering the mysterious origins of the Scorched Grove’s corruption.
Community Focussed Stories
From diplomatic missions in Alderheart’s Birdfolk perches to perilous journeys into the cursed Scorched Grove, Humblewood encourages tales that balance the roleplaying of living in a close community, with the tactical test posed by combat while venturing into the wild.
Players might fend off bandits attacking rural settlements, aid Humblefolk villages facing natural disasters, or delve into forgotten ruins to uncover the forest’s secrets. There are plenty reasons to send players out into the unknown, but the setting demands attention at home to, ensuring the community is safe and supported.
The Kinfolk of Humblewood
Humblewood’s inhabitants are its most defining feature, with each kinfolk species bringing unique cultural perspectives and abilities. These anthropomorphic animals are divided into two main groups: Birdfolk and Humblefolk. Together, they create a diverse tapestry of personalities, traditions, and roles within the magical forest of the Everden.
Birdfolk
Birdfolk are the protectors of the Everden, living in elevated settlements such as Alderheart, the central hub of Birdfolk society. Their homes, built high in the trees, symbolise their elevated role as guardians of the forest. Known for their natural grace and leadership qualities, Birdfolk are deeply tied to the spiritual and political stability of the region, often acting as mediators in disputes and defenders against external threats.
Key Traits:
Graceful, proud, and often duty-bound.
Playable Birdfolk Species:
- Raptor (Hawk): Swift and fierce, Raptors excel as fighters or scouts. They often patrol the skies, ensuring the safety of the Everden from aerial threats and serving as a first line of defense against invaders. Their keen eyesight and sharp reflexes make them unparalleled in battle.
- Corvum (Crow): Intelligent and cunning, Corvum are natural scholars, spies, or strategists. Their reputation for intellect often positions them as advisors or information brokers, though their methods can sometimes be seen as unorthodox.
- Strig (Owl): Wise and reserved, Strig frequently take on the role of healers, sages, or spiritual guides. Their connection to the ancient wisdom of the Everden makes them sought-after counselors in times of crisis.
- Lumas (Pidgeon): Gentle and peaceful, Lumas are diplomats and mediators. Their calming presence can diffuse tense situations, and they often act as envoys to the Humblefolk, strengthening the bond between the two groups.
- Gallus (Chicken): Resourceful problem-solvers, Gallus are capable of turning even the direst situations into opportunities for growth. Th~eir industrious nature and ability to rally others make them exceptional leaders in times of hardship.
Playable Humblefolk Species
While Birdfolk occupy the skies and treetops, Humblefolk thrive closer to the forest floor, embracing a lifestyle defined by resourcefulness and community. Though they lack the natural advantages of flight, their adaptability and ingenuity allow them to overcome challenges with a grounded perspective. The Humblefolk are the heart of the Everden, bringing diversity and practical skills to the region’s social fabric.
Key Traits:
Grounded, practical, and community-oriented.
Playable Humblefolk Species:
- Jerbeen (Mice): Nimble and clever, Jerbeen are ideal for roles requiring quick thinking and agility, such as rogues or bards. Their small stature allows them to navigate tight spaces, making them excellent scouts or messengers.
- Hedges (Hedgehog): Hardy and defensive, Hedges are natural warriors or defenders. Their spiked quills serve as both a physical defense and a symbol of their resilience in the face of danger.
- Mapach (Racoon): Inquisitive and crafty, Mapach are tinkerers and adventurers with a love for puzzles and gadgets. Their quick hands and resourcefulness make them adept thieves, alchemists, or inventors.
- Vulpin (Fox): Charismatic and cunning, Vulpin often take on leadership or trickster roles. Their sharp wits and charm allow them to navigate social dynamics with ease, making them excellent diplomats or spies.
- Cervan (Deer): Graceful yet strong, Cervan are closely attuned to nature, making them ideal druids or rangers. Their quiet wisdom and steadfast determination often make them the moral compass in any group.
Birdfolk and Humblefolk: Harmony and Tensions
While Birdfolk and Humblefolk share the Everden as their home, their contrasting lifestyles often lead to misunderstandings or tensions. Birdfolk may see themselves as the natural leaders due to their elevated status and ability to oversee the forest, while Humblefolk value independence and their grounded approach to problem-solving. However, these differences also provide opportunities for collaboration, as both groups bring complementary strengths to the challenges they face together.
From the soaring heights of Alderheart to the bustling forest floor, the kinfolk of Humblewood create a living, breathing world full of opportunities for adventure and storytelling.
Iconic Locations in Humblewood
The world of Humblewood is brought to life through its iconic locations, each brimming with opportunities for adventure, intrigue, and storytelling. From the lofty heights of the Crest Mountains to the remote Mokkden Caverns, these places define the Everden’s vibrant and dynamic setting.
Alderheart: The Birdfolk’s Perch
Alderheart stands as the cultural, political, and spiritual heart of the Everden Forest. Perched within the sprawling branches of an ancient and colossal tree, this majestic city is both a sanctuary and a hub of activity. Home to the Birdfolk and a meeting point for Humblefolk and travelers, Alderheart thrives on diplomacy, trade, and the ever-watchful guardianship of its people.
- Key Features: A labyrinth of interconnected wooden platforms, aerial bridges, and grand chambers adorned with intricate carvings. Its skyline is dotted with roosts, spires, and the grand council hall where Birdfolk leaders convene.
- Cultural Significance: Alderheart represents the unity and leadership of the Birdfolk, with its high vantage point symbolizing their role as protectors of the Everden.
Adventure Hooks:
- Mediate a growing conflict between Birdfolk factions debating how to address the spread of the Scorched Grove.
- Expose corruption within Alderheart’s leadership, uncovering hidden ties to a shadowy criminal syndicate.
- Defend the city from a daring airborne assault led by bandit raiders, testing your party’s tactical skills.
The Scorched Grove: A Land of Desolation
The Scorched Grove is a haunting scar upon the Everden, a once-thriving region now twisted by an unrelenting curse of fire and corruption. This barren, ash-laden landscape is rife with danger, from fiery elementals to spectral creatures that thrive in its malevolent energy. The Grove’s slow but steady expansion threatens to consume nearby villages, wildlife, and even Alderheart itself.
- Key Features: Charred trees that smolder eternally, rivers of molten earth, and flickering shadows hinting at unnatural presences. A lingering aura of dread hangs over the area.
- Cultural Significance: The Grove serves as a grim reminder of nature’s fury and the cost of neglect or imbalance, inspiring both fear and reverence among the kinfolk.
Adventure Hooks:
- Delve into the origins of the Scorched Grove’s corruption, facing fiery elementals, malevolent spirits, and ancient, forgotten magic.
- Escort a caravan of refugees fleeing the Grove’s relentless advance, defending them against hostile creatures and desperate scavengers.
- Retrieve an ancient relic of great power hidden deep within the Grove, braving its searing heat and the monstrosities that call it home.
Humblefolk Villages: The Heart of the Forest Floor
Scattered throughout the forest floor, the Humblefolk villages are testaments to resilience and creativity. These tight-knit communities, built from natural materials and blending harmoniously with their surroundings, are as varied as the kinfolk who inhabit them. Each village has its traditions, challenges, and secrets, offering a glimpse into the diverse lives of the Humblefolk.
- Key Features: Rustic homes crafted from wood, stone, and other natural resources. Communal spaces such as town squares, markets, and workshops are alive with activity and collaboration.
- Cultural Significance: These villages reflect the Humblefolk’s adaptability and strong sense of community, serving as the backbone of life on the forest floor.
Adventure Hooks:
- Protect a vulnerable village from an attack by marauding bandits or a rampaging beast, earning the gratitude of its inhabitants.
- Assist in rebuilding efforts after a catastrophic natural disaster, uncovering hidden clues about its mysterious origins.
- Investigate a local legend involving a hidden relic or ancient spirit tied to the village’s history, uncovering truths that could change its future.
The Gods of Humblewood
The Divine Avians and Amaranthine are the gods revered by the denizens of Humblewood. These deities represent the values, virtues, and struggles of the Birdfolk and Humblefolk alike, shaping their lives and guiding their paths.
At the heart of the pantheon are Tyton the Nightfather and Ardea the Dawnmother, the primordial deities whose influence weaves through every aspect of existence. Surrounding them are the Amaranthine, semi-divine figures who embody the unique traits of each folk and serve as cultural paragons.
Tyton the Nightfather
Domain: Mystery, Knowledge, Protection
Symbol: A crescent moon behind an owl’s wing
Tyton represents the quiet strength of the night and the wisdom found in stillness. He is revered as a protector of secrets and guardian of dreams, especially by those who seek guidance through introspection.
Ardea the Dawnmother
Domain: Light, Growth, Renewal
Symbol: A rising sun encircled by feathers
Ardea embodies hope and the promise of renewal. She inspires courage in the face of adversity and is worshipped by those who strive to bring light and prosperity to their communities.
The Birdfolk Amaranthine
The Birdfolk Amaranthine are divine archetypes representing each Birdfolk lineage, celebrated for their unique contributions to society.
- Altus the Enduring: Of the Strig, Altus is a symbol of perseverance and wisdom, often invoked by sages and those who endure great trials.
- Clhuran the Fickle): Of the Luma, Clhuran represents change and adaptability. His mercurial nature inspires creativity and resilience.
- Gesme the Brilliant: Of the Corvum, Gesme stands for intellect and discovery, guiding scholars and innovators in their pursuits.
- Hanera the Provider: Of the Gallus, Hanera embodies nurturing and resourcefulness and is celebrated for her role in sustaining communities.
- Reya the Explorer: Of the Raptor, Reya inspires wanderlust and bravery, urging her followers to chart new paths and embrace the unknown.
The Humblefolk Amaranthine
The Humblefolk Amaranthine are cultural icons reflecting the diverse strengths and virtues of the Humblefolk.
- Cairith the Resolute: Of the Cervan, Cairith symbolizes determination and leadership, guiding those who protect and lead their kin.
- Gaspard the Champion: Of the Jerbeen, Gaspard stands for courage and loyalty, inspiring selflessness and heroic deeds.
- Hath the Whisperer: Of the Mapach, Hath embodies cunning and subtlety, revered by those who navigate the shadows.
- Henwin the Kind: Of the Hedge, Henwin represents compassion and harmony, a patron for healers and peacemakers.
- Kren the Sly: Of the Vulpin, Kren is a trickster figure, celebrated for wit and clever solutions to difficult problems.
Faith in Daily Life
Humblewood’s kinfolk often honor multiple deities, choosing which to invoke based on their current needs or personal values. Small shrines to the Divine Avians can be found in homes, villages, and bustling cities like Alderheart, each serving as a reminder of the gods’ omnipresent guidance.
Adventurers in Humblewood may find themselves carrying talismans or saying prayers to the Divine Avians, seeking their favor as they navigate the challenges of the Everden.
Unique Monsters of Humblewood
Humblewood’s forests are alive with strange and dangerous creatures, each unique to the Everden’s magical ecosystem. Some are ancient, others newly twisted by corruption, but all present formidable challenges to adventurers brave enough to explore this enchanted land.
Ashsnake
The Ashsnake is a venomous serpent found in the Scorched Grove, its scales blackened and charred from the constant heat. Its bite injects a searing venom that burns the flesh long after the initial wound, leaving victims vulnerable to further attacks. Ashsnakes are adept at ambushes, slithering through the burning underbrush unnoticed.
Aspect of Fire
Born from the fiery chaos of the Scorched Grove, the Aspect of Fire is a fiery elemental being that embodies the destructive force of flames. These creatures appear as towering figures made of living fire, and their mere presence can ignite the surrounding area. An Aspect of Fire is a force of nature—relentless, burning, and dangerous to anyone who crosses its path.
Birdfolk Skeleton
The Birdfolk Skeletons are tragic remnants of the once-great Birdfolk warriors, now risen as undead in the wake of dark magic. With hollow eyes and tattered feathers, they retain the combat skills they held in life, though their movements are jerky and unnatural. These eerie creatures are often found guarding forgotten sites or lost treasures, posing a deadly threat to any who trespass.
Cobble Fright
The Cobble Fright is a creature born of the deep, dark caves beneath Humblewood. Resembling a massive, stone-skinned creature with glowing eyes, it is known for its ability to mimic the sounds of a person’s voice. This makes it particularly dangerous to explorers who may mistake its calls for the voices of their companions. When cornered, the Cobble Fright’s rock-hard skin makes it nearly invulnerable to most attacks.
Emberrat
A small but dangerous creature, the Emberrat is native to the Scorched Grove, with fur that constantly smolders as if aflame. These rodents thrive in the heat, using their fiery tails to ignite objects in their path. While not large, Emberrats are swarming pests that can quickly overwhelm an unprepared adventurer or camp, setting fire to anything they touch.
Forest Prowler
The Forest Prowler is a predatory beast that moves through the Everden’s dense underbrush with silent grace. Its fur is a mottled mix of green and brown, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the forest floor. While it may seem like a normal predator at first glance, the Forest Prowler has been known to track and stalk its prey for days, waiting for the perfect moment to strike with lethal precision.
Lesser Demon
Lesser Demons are infernal creatures that have slipped through rifts between the mortal world and the Abyss. Smaller than their demonic kin, they are still incredibly dangerous, with sharp claws, fiery breath, and the ability to manipulate dark magic. These demons often serve as agents for greater fiends, seeking to corrupt and destroy anything they encounter.
Mountain Lion
While not unique to Humblewood, the Mountain Lion is a dangerous apex predator found in the higher reaches of the Everden’s forests. With golden fur and sharp, retractable claws, these large cats are stealthy hunters that prey on smaller animals and even humanoids. Their territorial nature makes them especially dangerous to unwary adventurers who venture too close to their dens.
Caustic Slime
The Caustic Slime is a grotesque, oozing creature that dwells in the damp, shadowy corners of Humblewood. This acidic slime can dissolve nearly anything it touches, from metal to flesh. Its slimy, amorphous body can slip through the tiniest cracks and crevices, ambushing unsuspecting creatures. The Caustic Slime is particularly dangerous in areas where the environment is already treacherous, such as caves or the blighted zones of the Scorched Grove.
Character Concepts for Humblewood Campaigns
Below are expanded ideas for character archetypes, each deeply rooted in the lore and themes of the Everden. These concepts offer a strong foundation for creating heroes who embody the spirit of Humblewood.
Alderheart Sentinel
Birdfolk Fighter or Ranger
The Alderheart Sentinel is a stalwart protector of the Everden, chosen to defend its people from external threats. Trained in aerial combat and skilled in forest survival, these guardians serve as Alderheart’s first line of defense against bandit raiders, monstrous creatures, and the encroaching corruption of the Scorched Grove.
- Background: Perhaps you were raised in Alderheart, inspired by legendary Birdfolk warriors, or trained in a remote outpost to protect the forest’s borders.
- Motivations: Driven by a sense of duty and honor, your character might be determined to uphold the Birdfolk’s legacy as defenders of the Everden.
- Role in the Party: A sentinel excels in combat and tactical planning, serving as a frontline fighter or a scout who can navigate forest terrain with ease.
Humblefolk Healer
Cervan Druid or Cleric
The Humblefolk Healer is a compassionate and wise figure dedicated to restoring balance to the Everden. With a deep connection to nature and a mission to heal the wounds inflicted by the Scorched Grove, this character combines resilience and spirituality to protect both the land and its inhabitants.
- Background: You may have witnessed firsthand the devastation of the Scorched Grove, inspiring you to train in the druidic arts or follow a divine path to combat its corruption.
- Motivations: Your character could be driven by a desire to preserve the natural beauty of the forest or to atone for a perceived failure to protect their home.
- Role in the Party: As a healer, you’ll offer critical support in combat and provide guidance in navigating natural challenges. Your spells and abilities can cleanse corruption and nurture growth.
Rogue Wanderer
Mapach Rogue or Bard
The Rogue Wanderer is a resourceful and adventurous Humblefolk, thriving on wit, charm, and a knack for improvisation. Whether a scavenger, performer, or master of mischief, this character brings unpredictability and ingenuity to any situation.
- Background: Raised in the bustling marketplaces or shadowy outskirts of a Humblefolk village, you learned to rely on your cunning to survive. Perhaps you’ve traveled far and wide, seeking treasure or adventure.
- Motivations: Your character might seek fame, fortune, or simply the thrill of the journey. Alternatively, you could harbor a secret mission tied to your past.
- Role in the Party: With expertise in stealth, deception, and exploration, the Rogue Wanderer excels in reconnaissance, diplomacy, and problem-solving.
Spiritual Guide
Strig Cleric or Wizard
The Spiritual Guide is a contemplative and insightful Birdfolk who seeks to unravel the mysteries of the Everden. With a scholarly mind and a deep connection to the divine or arcane, this character serves as a beacon of wisdom and enlightenment.
- Background: You might have studied under a revered sage in Alderheart or been chosen by a higher power to interpret the ancient signs and omens of the forest.
- Motivations: Your character could be driven by a thirst for knowledge, a duty to preserve the Everden’s secrets, or a desire to protect the balance between the spiritual and material realms.
- Role in the Party: As a guide, you offer magical expertise, spiritual insight, and strategic counsel, enhancing the party’s understanding of their challenges.
Forest Guardian
Vulpin Ranger or Sorcerer
The Forest Guardian is a cunning and magical protector of the Everden, blending agility, intellect, and a touch of mysticism. These guardians take an active role in defending the forest, using guile and spellcraft to outsmart their foes.
- Background: Perhaps you grew up in a remote Humblefolk village, learning to survive off the land, or you discovered an innate magical connection to the Everden’s vibrant energy.
- Motivations: Your character might be driven by a fierce loyalty to the forest, a personal vendetta against those who harm it, or a desire to prove themselves as a hero.
- Role in the Party: A guardian is adept at tracking, combat, and environmental manipulation, ensuring the party can navigate and survive the Everden’s perils.
