From publisher blurb:
This is the 5e version of "Tales of Fur and Steel: Legends of the Smallfolk", including all content from the expansion "From Whiskers to Wings", with 14 Smallfolk Races to be used with the 5e rules.
Introduction:
Welcome to the world of "Tales of Fur and Steel," a tabletop RPG where players embark on extraordinary adventures as small, anthropomorphic animals living in a medieval fantasy realm intertwined with modern human society. In this unique setting, humans exist in a modern world with all the trappings of contemporary life—cars, mobile phones, and modern homes—yet remain blissfully unaware of the animal inhabitants' intelligence, their ability to wield weapons, don armor, and live in intricately designed small villages.
Within this extraordinary tapestry, the animals' world is juxtaposed against the obliviousness of humans. While humans go about their modern lives, their homes become treacherous bastions akin to perilous dungeons from traditional fantasy RPGs. To the animals, these seemingly mundane houses house untold dangers, mystical secrets, and mysterious artifacts. The domesticated animals that once shared a kinship with their wild brethren have lost touch with the magic of the natural world, turning into formidable monsters that the players must encounter and conquer.
Playable characters in "Tales of Fur and Steel" are drawn from the diverse tapestry of woodland creatures that typically inhabit the surroundings of human habitations in Europe and North America. Players can embody the stalwart Badgers, nimble Squirrels, resourceful Mice, versatile Frogs, or resilient Hedgehogs, each species endowed with unique abilities and characteristics that shape their role in the world. These animals, standing upright, clad in chainmail armor, and wielding weapons along with their innate magic, blend their natural instincts with their newfound anthropomorphic qualities, enabling them to engage in heroic feats and valiant quests.
In this richly woven tapestry, Rats play a significant role as a savage barbarian race. Considered as barbarous and dangerous, they possess their own rules and cultures, often engaging in raids against the more civilized animal races. Roaming the wilderness, the Rats present a formidable challenge to the player races, fostering a world brimming with conflict, diplomacy, and opportunities for epic battles.
As players delve deeper into the world, they will unveil the delicate balance that exists between the animal and human kingdoms. Engaging in quests to safeguard their villages, unearth ancient artifacts, and unravel the mysteries of their existence, players will witness the stark contrast between the mundane human life and the awe-inspiring wonders of the animal realm. Humans, oblivious to the vibrant societies and noble aspirations of the animal inhabitants, interact with them solely as natural creatures, unaware of their hidden intelligence and the grandeur that lies within.
"Tales of Fur and Steel" presents a boundless realm for immersive role-playing, blending medieval fantasy with the intrigue of a world unaware. It invites players to explore a universe where courage and cunning come in the smallest of forms, where animals stand as the unsung heroes of a forgotten world, and where the line between the ordinary and the extraordinary is blurred. Within this realm of fur and steel, epic adventures await, mysteries yearn to be unraveled, and the destiny of these anthropomorphic creatures lies in the paws of those who dare to dream.
The World:
In the vast and enchanting physical world that the Smallfolk inhabit, their villages lie nestled within woodlands and secluded areas untouched by human presence. These mystical woods, shrouded in dappled sunlight and perfumed with the scent of ancient trees, provide a sanctuary for the small creatures to thrive in harmony with nature.
As the animals traverse the forest, they navigate through verdant canopies that stretch high above, interwoven with branches and leaves that create a tapestry of shelter and shade. The ground beneath their paws is carpeted with a lush mosaic of mosses, ferns, and wildflowers, each delicate bloom adding its own vibrant hues to the picturesque landscape. Mighty oaks, stoic elms, and towering pines stand as guardians, their branches reaching skyward and offering solace to those who seek their shelter.
The villages of these remarkable creatures are a testament to their resourcefulness and craftsmanship. Built with a medieval aesthetic, the homes and dwellings blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The cottages are fashioned from sturdy timber, their walls adorned with intricately carved patterns inspired by the flora and fauna that envelop them. Smoke lazily curls from the chimneys, carrying with it the aroma of hearth fires and the comforting scent of warm meals.
The village square bustles with activity, serving as the heart of the community. Cobblestone paths wind through the settlement, connecting various communal spaces where the animals gather to socialize, trade, and celebrate. A communal well stands as a symbol of shared prosperity, offering refreshment to all who seek its cool waters.
Each species within the animal realm contributes to the vibrant cultural tapestry of the villages. The Badgers, known for their industrious nature, construct elaborate underground burrows that serve as both dwellings and interconnected tunnels, fostering a sense of community and security. The Squirrels, with their nimble dexterity, reside in treetop dwellings woven from vines and leaves, granting them a bird's-eye view of their woodland domain. The Mice, masters of ingenuity, craft homes hidden within the roots of ancient trees, utilizing their small size to navigate their intricate abodes. The Frogs, adaptable and versatile, dwell near tranquil ponds and marshes, their homes cleverly designed to withstand both the wet and dry elements. The Hedgehogs, resilient and self-reliant, seek refuge in cozy burrows beneath thickets, lined with soft mosses and leaves.
While the animals revel in the serenity of their woodland homes, the encroachment of human expansion looms on the horizon. The distant sounds of construction and the distant glow of artificial lights serve as a constant reminder that their tranquil realm is under threat. Roads and structures slowly creep closer to their villages, bringing with them the inevitability of change. The animals must adapt and find a delicate balance between preserving their way of life and coexisting with the encroaching human world.
In this magical realm of medieval-inspired homes and cultures, the Smallfolk forge bonds of kinship, share ancient traditions, and live in harmony with the rhythm of the natural world. As they venture forth from their cozy villages into the wider expanse of the forest, they will encounter breathtaking landscapes, hidden wonders, and formidable challenges that test their courage and resourcefulness. The physical world that surrounds them is a testament to the boundless beauty of nature and the enduring spirit of these extraordinary creatures who call it home.