Briarfolk Description
Briarfolk are stocky, rugged humanoids with bodies that appear woven from bark, vines, and thorny brambles. Their skin ranges from deep earthy browns to rich mossy greens, often textured like aged wood or thick, fibrous vines. Some Briarfolk bear patches of moss, fungal blooms, or even small flowers sprouting along their shoulders and arms, which change with the seasons.
Their eyes glow softly, usually in amber, green, or deep gold, giving them a watchful, almost ancient presence. Some Briarfolk have pupil-less eyes resembling carved knots in wood, while others have more humanoid features, albeit rough and weathered.
Their hair resembles tangled foliage, resembling hanging moss, thick vines, or thorn-laced tendrils, often braided or woven together. Some older Briarfolk have lichen-covered beards or flowering growths instead of hair, reflecting their deep-rooted connection to the land.
Their thick and powerful limbs give them a strong, grounded appearance. Their hands are rough and calloused, often with fingertips ending in claw-like, sharpened wood, which can be used for climbing, gripping, or tearing through obstacles.
A defining trait of Briarfolk is their thorns—small, retractable spines that emerge along their arms, backs, or legs when they are agitated or in danger. These thorns are not always visible, but when provoked, a Briarfolk’s body can sprout sharp, razor-edged briars as a natural defense mechanism.
Unlike Spriggan, who is tall and wiry, Briarfolk is shorter and more compact, built for endurance and resilience rather than agility. Their feet are broad and root-like, making them incredibly stable, complicated to knock down, and able to grip onto surfaces with unnatural tenacity.
Though they move with deliberate strength, Briarfolk are not slow—their movements flow like creeping vines, precise and methodical. When they choose to strike, they do so with the force of a falling tree rather than the speed of a predator.
Over time, a Briarfolk’s body can change, with older individuals becoming more gnarled and dense, their bark-like flesh hardening, while younger ones have smoother, more flexible features.
Some Briarfolk can root themselves into the ground, drawing strength from the soil or regenerating injuries by absorbing nutrients like a tree absorbing water.