Kenku

Kenkus were humanoid flightless birds who had an evil disposition. They tended to be selfish and secretive in nature and were often engaged in plots to acquire more wealth and power. They tended to travel in small groups and often lived in large human cities, especially in southern Faerûn, where they often worked as spies, assassins, or thieves.

Combat
Kenkus were cowardly by nature and would usually flee when a battle turned in their opponent's favor. Kenkus often used a short sword or shortbow in combat, but would also rake an opponent with their claws.

Society
Kenkus lived in family groups, often near large cities. Once they reached adulthood at age nine, they left their nest forever and banded together with other young adult kenkus.

A large kenku thieves guild was found in Zazesspur and was called the Daggertalons.

Description
Kenkus had arms in place of wings and talons for feet. Their coloration could range from russet to black. Kenkus tended to be slightly smaller than the average human. Because they had hollow bones they tended to be lighter than most creatures their height.

History
A number of flying kenkus, alongside gargoyles, were attendants to the one who waits in the Nine Hells. In the Year of the Prince, 1357 DR, when the Great Door appeared in the Hells, the gargoyles and kenkus flew through ahead of their master. The kenkus emerged first in a pit outside Waterdeep, and attacked Kyriani Agrivar, Onyx the Invincible, Parwyyd Hanifar, and Dunstanny; Onyx kept them occupied while the other dealt with the Door. One hurled a lightning spell at him. While Kyriani was separated into Cybriana and Kilili, Kilili flew amongst the kenkus. The exit of the Door was then redirected to the skies over Waterdeep, and the kenkus and gargoyles were met in battle by Vajra Valmeyjar and Timoth Eyesbright, before the City Guard and Khelben "Blackstaff" Arunsun arrived to defend the city. Later, when the exit of the gate was restored to its original location, the same flying creatures assaulted Cybriana, Onyx, Parwyyd Hanifar, and Dunstanny again, before they ended the threat of the Great Door and the one who waits.