Herpetón
Sarcosians
Crocodile People
The Sarcosians, or Crocodile People, dwell in the winding rivers, marshlands, and swampy deltas where freshwater and thick vegetation create a perfect balance of safety and abundance. They build their homes along riverbanks, constructing lodges of mud, reeds, and wood that blend into the landscape, often partly submerged and accessible through underwater entrances. Sarcosian culture is shaped by patience, resilience, and a deep respect for the interconnectedness of all life within their watery domain. They are known for their collective approach to survival, often cooperating in small groups to secure food, maintain their lodges, and navigate the unpredictable waters.
Storytelling often happens around warm, muddy coves as family groups share tales of ancient floods, powerful river spirits, and legendary hunts, passing down knowledge from one generation to the next. Although physically formidable, the Sarcosians avoid unnecessary conflict, valuing their energy and preferring to outlast their enemies rather than confront them directly. They are excellent swimmers, using both their natural ability and strong tails to navigate swiftly, and they pride themselves on their attunement to the rhythms of the rivers, sensing changes in the currents as an extension of their own instincts.
Ambystis
Axolotl People
The Axolotl People, known as the Ambystis, are an adaptable and enigmatic species residing in the marshlands and underground lakes of Hinterdom. Renowned for their ability to regenerate limbs and heal quickly, they thrive in aquatic environments while moving easily on land. Their amphibious nature and healing abilities give them a mystical reputation. With frilled gills and smooth, luminescent skin, the Ambystis are striking and otherworldly. Despite their delicate appearance, they are resilient survivors, gracefully adapting to changing environments.
Culturally, the Ambystis are deeply connected to nature’s cycles, especially the flow of water, which they believe is key to life and rejuvenation. Their society focuses on communal healing and support, emphasizing care for one another. The Ambystis value wisdom and balance, often mediating conflicts and healing rifts between species. Known for their herbal knowledge, they are highly respected healers. Their regenerative ability symbolizes the belief in renewal and second chances for all. Though peaceful, they fiercely protect their homes, using their deep connection to the aquatic world to defend themselves and their loved ones.
Axolotl People are amphibious, and can breathe underwater or on land. Wounded Axolotl People naturally regain 1 HP per hour, when submerged in water, whether or not they are conscious.
Cheloni
Tortoise People
The Cheloni, or Tortoise People, inhabit the sun-drenched grasslands, tranquil wetlands, and secluded forest groves, where their settlements are thoughtfully built to blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. Their homes are crafted from clay, stone, and woven reeds, often dome-shaped and partially nestled into the earth, providing cool refuge from the heat.
Community gatherings are often held beneath ancient trees, where the Cheloni come together to share stories, celebrate seasonal changes, and perform rituals that honor the earth and sky. The Cheloni are skilled in agriculture, cultivating small gardens and foraging for herbs, and are also renowned for their intricate carvings and pottery, which depict the stories of their ancestors. Though they are physically slow and prefer to avoid confrontation, the Cheloni possess an unyielding resilience; when their community is threatened, they stand as stalwart defenders, using their natural strength and protective shells to shield those they care about. Their culture emphasizes the value of endurance and the wisdom that comes from taking life at a steady pace, always in tune with the rhythms of the natural world.
The Turtle People can go into defensive mode, giving up their action in a round but gaining an additional +3 to AL.
Herpetón folk included in the Manual
-
Axolotyl
-
Chameleon
-
Crocodile
-
Tortoise
Aves
Mamalia
Familiar enough to pick up, different enough to be worth picking up
Hinterdom is a tabletop role-playing game designed for immersive storytelling and meaningful player choices, with a focus on narrative over mechanics.
Its rules are intuitive and streamlined, making it easy to learn and quick to play, while its light use of dice keeps the focus on character-driven moments and shared creativity. Clear guidance on crafting your own species, equipment, skills, and magic invite players to participate in creating the world they want to play in.
