Background:
Centaurs exist in tribes, mainly in the central plains of Kaylon and in some parts of Tan Kthol. They are small in number, mainly because they used to be known as a "heretic" race by the Kaylonic Church, and were hunted down for believing in only one god, who they call H'Graash. This declaration was sensibly called to an end by ArchYandrite Daran II, who identified H'Graash to actually be Kaarn, one of the Pantheon, and God of Strength.
This didn't stop Centaur-hunting going on for a few decades, and even now, over two hundred years later, Centaurs will still occasionally be attacked in remote rural areas, normally by villagers screaming "Demon!" at them.
In appearance Centaurs appear to be half-man and half-horse. A rather strange combination perhaps, but certainly a useful one in an economic and military sense. Centaurs have huge amounts of stamina, and can obviously carry heavy items fairly easily.
Due to their strange shape, Centaur warriors have to make some alterations. They normally wear chainmail or leather armour for their torsoes, and cavalry barding for the flanks. As regards to weaponry, also due to their shape they can use few of the longer weapons. Centaurs are commonly known to use cavalry and short bows, short spears and javelins, and swords. Most carry at least two out of the above list, with spear and javelin or sword and javelin being popular choices. The idea in this case is for the warrior to pin down the enemy with a ranged weapon, then ride in close and fell him in close combat.
Centaurs in tribes are the only race which does not naturally have literacy skills. All of their histories, stories and fables are committed to memory and told orally. This means that there are no magi among their numbers - as magi rely on the written word to memorise spells and use them. All Centaurs are touchy and surly, except to members of their own tribe. Any slight to his honour, real or imagined, will be met with a drawn sword.
One point to mention with Centaurs - never, ever, ask to ride on a Centaur's back. Even if the two were companions before, this is a sign of contempt and slight towards the Centaur, and usually the recipient of the request will attack.
Role-playing:
Centaur adventurers are very strong and resilient. Obviously Centuars do not have much future in fields such as dungeoneering or thievery.
Advantages - Bonuses in strength and toughness. Have more speed than the average adventurer. Can carry more and heavier items.
Disadvantages - Decreased dexterity. Cannot fit into tight pasageways. Cannot become magi or thief classes. Have no default Literacy skill.
Specialized Racial Class - Fighter.
