Merfolk

Stalwart Protectors of the Waterways
In Nyr, Merfolk (Tritons in other settings) of the ocean are very rare and considered by many to be mythical in nature. Much more common are the Freshwater Merfolk, who lurk in the rivers, lakes, and bogs of Nyr. They are mostly hostile to intruders due to their experience with nature-destroying settlers, but maintain some level of trade and cultural exchange from their sacred city Koivu. Many Merfolk live mostly solitary lives or in small groups, dedicated to maintaining the body of water they have chosen as their home.

Subrace
The Merfolk of Nyr come in two main varieties depending on their ancestral homes: River, and Bog. River Merfolk are typically playful and light-hearted, often prefering tricks and misdirection to defend their home waters instead of outright violence. In addition, they are talented swimmers and usually athletically gifted due to swimming in fast currents. Bog Merfolk tend to be lumbering and incurious, setting traps and laying in wait to defend their homes. Bog Merfolk have small spines over parts of their bodies that ooze a toxic venom. They coat their weapons in the venom to make them deadlier, but also frequently use it as a culinary ingredient.

Merfolk Features
• Ability Score increase. An ability score of your choice increases by 2, and another by 1.

• Age. Merfolk reach maturity around age 15 and can live up to 200 years.

• Size. Merfolk are slightly shorter than humans, averaging about 5 feet tall. Your size is Medium.

• Speed. Your base walking speed is 30 feet, and you have a swimming speed of 30 feet.

• Amphibious. You can breathe air and water.

• Control Water. A child of the depths, you can call on the magic of elemental water. You learn the Shape Water cantrip and can cast it at will. Wisdom is your spellcasting ability for this spell.

• Guardians of the Depths. Adapted to even the most chilly waters, you have resistance to cold damage, and you ignore any of the drawbacks caused by an underwater environment.

• Languages. You can speak, read, and write Common and Primordial.

River Merfolk

 * Swift as the River. Your swimming speed increases by 15 feet. Additionally, you gain proficiency in either the Athletics or Acrobatics skills.

Bog Merfolk

 * Poisonous Skin. As a reaction to another creature grappling with you or otherwise touching your skin, you may reflexively exude a toxin from your pores, dealing 1d4 poison damage to that creature, or half if they succeed on a Constitution saving throw with DC equal to 8 + your proficiency modifier + your Constitution modifier. At 5th, 11th, 16th and 19th levels this damage increases by 1d4.