Races of Wild

Illus. by C. Lukacshe distinctive cultures of the elves, halflings, andraptorans spawn characters with abilities beyondthose described in the Player’s Handbook. The followingfeats and new rules for skills are designedwith the races of the wild in mind.Moving through Trees: Use Balance checks to move horizontallyalong a branch or tree trunk leaning over at anangle of up to 60 degrees. To move vertically in a tree, orto move along a branch or trunk with an angle of greaterthan 60 degrees, use the Climb skill.SKILLSElves, halflings, and raptorans have found endless ways tomake use of what they know. Sometimes, it is their uniqueoutlook that leads them to approach tasks in remarkableways. Other times they must invent special techniques tosuit their particular needs.The following section describes new uses for the skillsdescribed in the Player’s Handbook. Unless otherwise noted,there are no special requirements for the new skill usesdescribed here. Where members of a particular race arementioned, it is merely to point out who pioneered thenew use and does not limit who can use the skill in thisnew manner.BALANCE (DEX; ARMOR CHECK PENALTY)Life in the wild often obliges elves and raptorans to perch inor move through the tops of trees. Halflings, too, often findthemselves precariously balanced somewhere.BalanceDC Forest Type10* Dense Forest: Trees are older with strongbranches and are close together, includingmany massive trees. There are lots ofbranches to choose from, letting the characterselect the widest, flattest branches with themost support or hand holds.15 Medium Forest: Trees are farther apart ornot as old and the selection of branchesis not as great, forcing the character touse some narrow branches or brancheswithout support.25 Sparse Forest: Trees are farther apart andnot very old. The character has to use alot of narrow branches without support orhand holds. The character is often movingacross branches that are barely wideenough to move on.*Only when running or charging. Failure by 4or less means the character can’t run or charge butmay otherwise act normally. The character is notconsidered balancing when not moving.145