Beast

Animal Powers

"Every beast leaves a trail. The trick is learning whether it wants to be found."

— Old hunter's saying

Beasts are nonhuman creatures that are a natural part of the world. They include ordinary animals as well as larger, more dangerous creatures that live in the wild. Unlike many other monster types, beasts are not usually magical, supernatural, or connected to other planes of existence. They survive through natural instincts and behaviors.
Most beasts fill the same roles in the world that animals do in nature. Some are predators that hunt for food, while others are prey animals that avoid danger whenever possible. They can be found in nearly every environment, including forests, mountains, deserts, oceans, swamps, and grasslands.
The intelligence of beasts is generally limited. While some are capable hunters or problem solvers, they do not usually possess the reasoning ability of humanoids or other intelligent creatures. Their actions are driven by survival, territory, reproduction, and the search for food. A beast may attack if it is hungry, frightened, protecting its young, or defending its territory.
Many adventurers encounter beasts during their travels. Wolves, bears, giant snakes, sharks, and other dangerous animals can pose serious threats, especially when encountered in their natural habitats. However, beasts are not automatically hostile. Most would rather avoid conflict than risk injury.
Some beasts are larger or stronger than their real world counterparts. Giant eagles, giant spiders, giant boars, and similar creatures are still considered beasts because they remain part of the natural world. Their unusual size does not make them magical or unnatural.
Beasts play an important role in many ecosystems. They help maintain the balance of nature and often serve as sources of food, labor, transportation, or companionship for civilized societies. Rangers, druids, and other nature focused individuals often have a deep understanding of beast behavior and may even form bonds with them.
Common examples of beasts include wolves, horses, bears, eagles, sharks, giant spiders, and giant boars. While they vary greatly in size and temperament, all beasts share one defining trait. They are creatures of the natural world, living according to the instincts and laws of nature.